bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An LC–MS/MS method for the quantification of diclofenac sodium in dairy cow plasma and its application in pharmacokinetics studies
Authors: Yang Ya‐Jun , Liu Xi‐Wang , Kong Xiao‐Jun , Qin Zhe , Li Shi‐Hong , Jiao Zeng‐Hua , Li Jian‐Yong
Published: February 2019

An LC–MS/MS method with internal standard tolfenamic acid for determining diclofenac sodium (DCF) in dairy cow plasma was developed and validated. Samples were processed with protein precipitation by cold formic acid–acetonitrile. Determination of DCF was performed using LC–ESI+–MS/MS with the matrix‐matched calibration curve. The results showed that the method was sensitive (LOD 2 ng mL−1, LOQ 5 ng mL−1), accurate (97.60 ± 5.64%), precise (<10%) and linear in the range of 5–10,000 ng mL−1. A single intravenous (i.v.) or intramuscular (i.m.) administration of 5% diclofenac sodium injection at a dose of 2.2 mg kg−1 was performed in six healthy dairy cows according to a two‐period crossover design. The main pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters after a single i.v. administration were as follows: t1/2β, 4.52 ± 1.71 h; AUC, 77.79 ± 16.76 h μg mL−1; mean residence time, 5.16 ± 1.11 h. The main PK parameters after a single i.m. administration were as follows: Tmax, 2.38 ± 1.19 h; Cmax, 7.46 ± 1.85 μg mL−1; t1/2β, 9.46 ± 2.86 h; AUC 67.57 ± 13.07 h μg mL−1. The absolute bioavailability was 87.37 ± 5.96%. The results showed that the diclofenac sodium injection had PK characteristics of rapid absorption and slow elimination, and high peak concentration and bioavailability in dairy cows, and that the recommended clinical dosage of diclofenac sodium injection is 2.2 mg kg−1.
Anatomy of the lingual nerve: Application to oral surgery
Authors: Shimotakahara Rie , Lee Hyeyong , Mine Kazuharu , Ogata Shigemitsu , Tamatsu Yuichi
Published: February 2019

The purpose of this research is to obtain morphological information about the traveling route, branching pattern, and distribution within the tongue of the lingual nerve, all of which are important for oral surgical procedures. Using 20 sides from 10 Japanese cadaveric heads, we followed the lingual nerve from its merging point with the chorda tympani to its peripheral terminal in the tongue. We focused on the collateral branches in the area before reaching the tongue and the communication between the lingual and hypoglossal nerves reaching the tongue. The collateral branches of the lingual nerve were distributed in the oral mucosa between the palatoglossal arch and the mandibular molar region. Two to eight collateral branches arose from the main trunk of the nerve, and the configuration of branching was classified into three types. More distally, the lingual nerve started to communicate with the hypoglossal nerve before passing the anterior border of the hyoglossus muscle. Nerve communications were also found in the main body and near the apex of the tongue. A thorough understanding of the collateral branches near the tongue, and the communication with the hypoglossal nerve inside the tongue, will help to prevent functional disorders from local anesthesia and oral surgical procedures associated with the lingual nerve. Clin. Anat. 32:635–641, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Retrograde aortic approach for atrial fibrillation ablation with a conventional 3‐D mapping catheter: A case report
Authors: Comandante Christian , Chang Po‐Cheng , Huang Yu‐Chang , Chou Chung‐Chuan
Published: February 2019

Key Clinical Message

The presence of a Gore‐Tex patch can create difficulty in performing transeptal puncture for atrial septal defect patients underwent atrial fibrillation ablation. The maneuverability and stability of using manually operated catheters via retrograde aortic approach could be overcome by a large‐curved catheter to form a loop facilitating approachability to all parts of left atrium.
Controlled Photocatalytic Hydrocarbon Oxidation by Uranyl Complexes
Authors: Arnold Polly L. , Purkis Jamie M. , Rutkauskaite Ryte , Kovacs Daniel , Love Jason B. , Austin Jonathan
Published: February 2019

Controlled, photocatalytic C−H bond activations are key reactions in the toolkits of the modern synthetic chemist. While it is known that the uranyl(VI) ion, [UVIO2]2+, the environmentally dominant form of uranium, is photoactive, most literature examines its luminescent properties, neglecting its potential synthetic utility for photocatalytic C−H bond cleavage. Here, we synthesise and fully characterise an air‐stable and hydrocarbon‐soluble uranyl phenanthroline complex, [UVIO2(NO3)2(Ph2phen)], UPh2phen, and demonstrate that it can catalytically abstract hydrogen atoms from a variety of organic substrates under visible light irradiation. We show that the commercially available parent complex, uranyl nitrate ([UVIO2(NO3)2(OH2)2]⋅4H2O; UNO3), is also competent, but from electronic spectroscopy we attribute the higher rates and selectivity of UPh2phen to ligand‐mediated electronic effects. Ketones are selectively formed over other oxygenated products (alcohols, etc.), and the catalytic oxidation of substrates containing a benzylic C−H position is particularly improved for UPh2phen. We also show uranyl‐mediated photocatalytic C−C bond cleavage in a model lignin compound for the first time.
Selective Ring‐Opening of Di‐Substituted Epoxides Catalysed by Halohydrin Dehalogenases
Authors: Calderini Elia , Wessel Julia , Süss Philipp , Schrepfer Patrick , Wardenga Rainer , Schallmey Anett
Published: February 2019

Halohydrin dehalogenases (HHDHs) are valuable biocatalysts for the synthesis of β‐substituted alcohols based on their epoxide ring‐opening activity with a number of small anionic nucleophiles. In an attempt to further broaden the scope of substrates accepted by these enzymes, a panel of 22 HHDHs was investigated in the conversion of aliphatic and aromatic vicinally di‐substituted trans‐epoxides using azide as nucleophile. The majority of these HHDHs was able to convert aliphatic methyl‐substituted epoxide substrates to the corresponding azidoalcohols, in some cases even with absolute regioselectivity. HheG from Ilumatobacter coccineus exhibited also high activity towards sterically more demanding di‐substituted epoxides. This further expands the range of β‐substituted alcohols that are accessible by HHDH catalysis.
An Efficient, Scalable and Eco‐friendly Synthesis of 4,5‐substituted Pyrrole‐3‐Carbonitriles by Intramolecular Annulation on Pd/C and HZSM‐5
Authors: Chen Jianchao , Li Chengtao , Zhou Yanan , Sun Changshan , Sun Tiemin
Published: February 2019

An efficient and eco‐friendly protocol for the synthesis of diverse 4,5‐substituted 1H‐pyrrole‐3‐carbonitriles has been developed using commercially available HZSM‐5 and Pd/C as recyclable heterogeneous catalysts with more excellent yields (up to 98 %) than traditional liquids acids, and successfully applied in the practical synthesis of vonoprazan. The conspicuous features of this protocol are higher product yield, easy work‐up, eco‐friendly and reusability of catalysts.
Boron‐Doped Diamond as an All‐In‐One System for the Mineralization and Detection of Lead in Waters
Authors: Pujol Luca , Evrard David , Gros Pierre , Freyssinier Mathilde , Ruffien‐Cizsak Audrey , Groenen Serrano Karine
Published: February 2019

Boron‐doped diamond (BDD) electrodes were used in a single‐compartment electrochemical cell to monitor the degradation of organic matter (OM) and the detection of lead in water. Using sulfuric acid as the electrolyte, the mineralization step was almost complete after 20 min under galvanostatic electrolysis conditions, irrespective of the OM [i. e. phenol or humic acid (HA)]. Nevertheless, H2SO4 was not suitable for samples containing Pb(II), as it induces PbSO4 precipitation. On the other hand, the use of HNO3 resulted in a decrease in the HA degradation yield to 30 %, but remained at 90 % for phenol without any interference with respect to lead detection. Under these latter experimental conditions, the assay of Pb(II) was performed by using differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry. The BDD electrode exhibited a linear response in the range 1–10 ppm with a normalized sensitivity of 2.66 nC ppm−1 min−1. Accurate results were obtained in solutions containing 20 ppm phenol, as compared to reference technique analysis.
Template‐Induced Self‐Activation Route for Hierarchical Porous Carbon Derived from Interpenetrating Polymer Networks as Electrode Material for Supercapacitors
Authors: Chen Xi‐Wen , Gao Jian‐Fei , Hu Bing , Li Kai , Kong Ling‐Bin
Published: February 2019

Hierarchical porous textures of carbon‐based electrode materials are advantageous for applications in supercapacitors, owing to their reasonable pore size distribution and large surface area. In this work, a facile yet effective one‐step carbonization method for the preparation of hierarchical porous carbons (HPCs) derived from interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) of phenol‐formaldehyde resin (PF) and sodium polyacrylate (PAAS) is proposed. Phenol‐formaldehyde prepolymer can be introduced into the inter network space of PAAS to form IPNs in which only hydrogen‐bonding interactions exist between them. During the carbonization process of IPNs, the PF networks tend to form a carbon matrix, which generates large amounts of micropores. While the PAAS evaporates into gaseous products, serving as a template for micro‐, meso‐, and macropores. Due to such synergistic effects, a carbon material with a large surface area of 1764 m2 g−1 and a large pore volume of 1.111 cm3 g−1 is constructed with an interconnected hierarchical porous carbon network structure. With such unique carbon structure characteristics, the electrode material of HPC delivers a high specific capacitance of 201 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and excellent cyclability of approximately 100 % of capacitance retention after 10000 cycles. The ideal capacitive behavior from IPNs provides new insights for the production of carbonaceous materials for high‐performance supercapacitors applications.
Fluorogenic Diversification of Unprotected Bromotryptophan by Aqueous Mizoroki–Heck Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Gruß Hendrik , Belu Clara , Bernhard Laura M. , Merschel Arne , Sewald Norbert
Published: February 2019

Fluorescent styryl‐tryptophans have been synthesized by a Mizoroki–Heck cross‐coupling from unprotected bromotryptophan in aqueous medium showing promising spectrophotometric properties for possible application in fluorescence labelling of biomolecules. Moreover, this strategy permits a modular combination of biocatalytic halogenation by using immobilized FAD‐dependent tryptophan halogenases and Pd‐mediated chemocatalysis in a multistep one‐pot process.
Synthesis of Organosilyl‐Functionalized Cage‐Type Germanoxanes Containing Fluoride Ions
Authors: Sato Naoto , Hayashi Taiki , Tochigi Kazuma , Wada Hiroaki , Shimojima Atsushi , Kuroda Kazuyuki
Published: February 2019

Eight corners of a double‐four ring cage‐type germanoxane, containing a fluoride ion, were successfully silylated by the combination of chlorosilanes and silazanes. Three different silyl groups, trimethylsilyl, dimethylsilyl, and dimethylvinylsilyl, were attached on the corners of germanoxane cage. The solubility and reactivity of the cage modified with dimethylvinylsilyl groups were significantly increased, allowing for further reaction. Hydrosilylation reaction between dimethylvinylsilylated cage geramanoxanes and dimethylsilylated cage siloxanes afforded porous solids. Functionalization of the corners of germanoxanes with silyl groups should provide valuable building blocks in various functional materials.
Immobilization of Perylene‐3,4,9,10‐Tetracarboxylic Dianhydride on Hollow Polysulfone Fibers: Primary Amine Coupling and Fluorescence Reporting
Authors: Favaretto Laura , Manoli Francesco , Zambianchi Massimo , Bocchi Letizia , Ventura Barbara , Manet Ilse , Melucci Manuela
Published: February 2019

The fluorescent dye perylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic dianhydride (PBA) was immobilized onto polysulfone hollow fibers by means of a wet coating procedure. After immobilization, PBA was able to react with primary amines through a double anhydride ring opening reaction. The in situ amine coupling was further revealed by fluorescence analysis. Both emission (534 nm →538 nm) and fluorescence lifetime changes (2.7 ns →3.3 ns) of the dye are a useful tool to detect and visualize the occurrence of the reaction. The successful implementation of amine coupling with a reporting function on polysulfone fibers holds great interest for biomedical applications.
Peritoneal dialysis as therapeutic option in heart failure patients
Authors: Grossekettler Leonie , Schmack Bastian , Meyer Katrin , Brockmann Carsten , Wanninger Reinhard , Kreusser Michael M. , Frankenstein Lutz , Kihm Lars P. , Zeier Martin , Katus Hugo A. , Remppis Andrew , Schwenger Vedat
Published: February 2019

Aims

Each episode of acute decompensated heart failure (HF) incrementally adds to mortality. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) offers an alternative therapeutic option in refractory HF and reduces the incidence of decompensation episodes. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of PD, in terms of functional status, surrogate endpoints, rate of hospitalizations, and mortality.

Methods and results

This study is based on the registry of the German Society of Nephrology, involving 159 patients receiving PD treatment due to refractory HF between January 2010 and December 2014. Body weight was reduced by PD (82.2 ± 14.9 to 78.4 ± 14.8 kg, P < 0.001), and significant improvements in New York Heart Association functional class (3.38 ± 0.55 to 2.85 ± 0.49, P < 0.001) were found already after 3 months. Left ventricular ejection fraction did not change (31.5 ± 13.8 to 34.0 ± 15.7%, P = 0.175). C‐reactive protein improved with PD treatment (33.7 ± 52.6 to 17.1 ± 26.3 mg/L, P = 0.004). Blood urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio decreased significantly (148.7 ± 68.3 to 106.7 ± 44.8 mg/dL, P < 0.001). Hospitalization rates decreased significantly (total number 2.86 ± 1.88 to 1.90 ± 1.78, P = 0.001, and 39.2 ± 30.7 to 27.1 ± 25.2 days, P = 0.004). One year mortality was 39.6% in end‐stage HF patients treated with PD.

Conclusions

Peritoneal dialysis offers an additional therapeutic option in end‐stage HF and is associated with improved New York Heart Association classification and reduced hospitalization. Although PD treatment was associated with various benefits, further studies are necessary to identify which patients benefit the most from PD.
Highly sensitive and selective separation of intact parathyroid hormone and variants by sheathless CE‐ESI‐MS/MS
Authors: Nyssen Laurent , Fillet Marianne , Cavalier Etienne , Servais Anne‐Catherine
Published: February 2019

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is a common clinical marker whose quantification relies on immunoassays, giving variable results as batch, brand, or target epitope changes. Sheathless CE‐ESI‐MS, combining CE resolution power and low‐flow ESI sensitivity, was applied to the analysis of PTH in its native conformation in the presence of related forms. Fused silica and neutral‐coated capillaries were investigated, as well as preconcentration methods such as transient isotachophoresis, field‐amplified sample injection (FASI), and electrokinetic supercharging (EKS). The method for the separation of PTH and its variants was first developed using fused‐silica capillary with UV detection. An acidic BGE was used to separate 1–84 PTH (full length), 7–84 PTH, and 1–34 PTH. Acetonitrile was added to the BGE to reduce peptide adsorption onto the capillary wall and transient isotachophoresis was used as analyte preconcentration method. The method was then transferred to a sheathless CE‐ESI‐MS instrument. When using a fused silica capillary, CE‐MS was limited to μg/mL levels. The use of a neutral coating combined with FASI or EKS allowed a significant increase in sensitivity. Under these conditions, 1–84 PTH, 7–84 PTH, and 1–34 PTH were detected at concentrations in the low ng/mL (FASI) or pg/mL (EKS) range.
Recent advances in direct current electrokinetic manipulation of particles for microfluidic applications
Authors: Xuan Xiangchun
Published: February 2019

Microfluidic devices have been extensively used to achieve precise transport and placement of a variety of particles for numerous applications. A range of force fields have thus far been demonstrated to control the motion of particles in microchannels. Among them, electric field‐driven particle manipulation may be the most popular and versatile technique because of its general applicability and adaptability as well as the ease of operation and integration into lab‐on‐a‐chip systems. This article is aimed to review the recent advances in direct current (DC) (and as well DC‐biased alternating current) electrokinetic manipulation of particles for microfluidic applications. The electric voltages are applied through electrodes that are positioned into the distant channel‐end reservoirs for a concurrent transport of the suspending fluid and manipulation of the suspended particles. The focus of this review is upon the cross‐stream nonlinear electrokinetic motions of particles in the linear electroosmotic flow of fluids, which enable the diverse control of particle transport in microchannels via the wall‐induced electrical lift and/or the insulating structure‐induced dielectrophoretic force.
Self‐Assembled CoFe Nanoparticle‐Embedded Carbon Nanowires as Efficient Nonprecious Catalyst for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Wang Xinqiang , Zheng Binjie , Yang Dongxu , Sun Baochen , Zhang Wanli , Chen Yuanfu
Published: February 2019

At present, it is still challenging to develop nonprecious transition metal‐based electrocatalysts with a high efficiency and stability for overall water splitting. To address such issues, for the first time, a novel nonprecious hybrid electrocatalyst—a self‐assembled CoFe nanoparticle‐embedded porous carbon nanowires (CoFe@CNWs)—is designed and synthesized via a facile hydrothermal reaction and subsequent annealing process. This hybrid electrocatalyst demonstrates an outstanding performance for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) with a very small Tafel slope of 63 mV dec−1 and an ultralow onset overpotential of 170 mV; particularly, when the hybrid is used for overall water splitting, the cell voltage is as low as 1.69 V at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. The excellent electrocatalytic performance of CoFe@CNWs is attributed to its unique porous nanoarchitecture, constructed by ultrasmall conductive CoFe nanoparticles homogenously embedded in highly conductive CNWs, which would not only guarantee abundant catalytic sites and structural stability but also facilitate electron transportation, resulting in a significant improvement in the electrocatalytic performance. This work provides a strategy to rationally design and synthesize a nanostructured transition metal‐based hybrid to be used as a highly effective and stable nonprecious electrocatalyst for overall water splitting.
The influence of lipid content and pretreatment methods on protein conformation in fish (capelin, Mallotus villosus) during smoking and drying
Authors: Odoli Cyprian Ogombe , Oduor‐Odote Peter , Arason Sigurjon
Published: February 2019

The influence of lipid content and pretreatment methods (blanching and brining) on proteins conformation in fish (Capelin, Mallotus villosus) during drying and smoking were assessed. Soluble protein fractions were examined through changes in salt‐soluble proteins, sulfhydryl groups, and disulfide bonds contents. The salt level and moisture content were also evaluated. Conformational changes in muscle protein were significant (p < 0.05) after blanching and during initial drying when moisture content and dryness rates were high. Salt‐soluble proteins and total sulfhydryl groups contents reduced, whereas available sulfhydryl group and disulfide bonds contents intensified. The conformational changes were explained by muscle protein denaturation and aggregation ascribed to high temperature and dehydration during processing. The study reports fish protein denaturation to have reduced protein solubility as well as the nutritional value (loss of thermolabile compounds) and yield after smoking. More so, protein aggregation that was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in dried blanched fish could have reduced the dried fish sensory quality. Blanching pretreatment is thus not suitable for commercial capelin drying. Lipids were found to have protective effect against fish protein conformation.
How the insula speaks to the heart: Cardiac responses to insular stimulation in humans
Authors: Chouchou Florian , Mauguière François , Vallayer Ophélie , Catenoix Hélène , Isnard Jean , Montavont Alexandra , Jung Julien , Pichot Vincent , Rheims Sylvain , Mazzola Laure
Published: February 2019

Despite numerous studies suggesting the role of insular cortex in the control of autonomic activity, the exact location of cardiac motor regions remains controversial. We provide here a functional mapping of autonomic cardiac responses to intracortical stimulations of the human insula. The cardiac effects of 100 insular electrical stimulations into 47 epileptic patients were divided into tachycardia, bradycardia, and no cardiac response according to the magnitude of RR interval (RRI) reactivity. Sympathetic (low frequency, LF, and low to high frequency powers ratio, LF/HF ratio) and parasympathetic (high frequency power, HF) reactivity were studied using RRI analysis. Bradycardia was induced by 26 stimulations (26%) and tachycardia by 21 stimulations (21%). Right and left insular stimulations induced as often a bradycardia as a tachycardia. Tachycardia was accompanied by an increase in LF/HF ratio, suggesting an increase in sympathetic tone; while bradycardia seemed accompanied by an increase of parasympathetic tone reflected by an increase in HF. There was some left/right asymmetry in insular subregions where increased or decreased heart rates were produced after stimulation. However, spatial distribution of tachycardia responses predominated in the posterior insula, whereas bradycardia sites were more anterior in the median part of the insula. These findings seemed to indicate a posterior predominance of sympathetic control in the insula, whichever the side; whereas the parasympathetic control seemed more anterior. Dysfunction of these regions should be considered when modifications of cardiac activity occur during epileptic seizures and in cardiovascular diseases.
Geriatric assessment and 1‐year mortality in older patients with cancer in the head and neck region: A cohort study
Authors: van Deudekom Floor J. , van der Velden Lilly‐Ann , Zijl Willianne H. , Schimberg Anouk S. , Langeveld Anton P. , Slingerland Marije , Blauw Gerard J. , Mooijaart Simon P.
Published: February 2019

Background

The aim is to describe the association of functional capacity and cognitive functioning with 1‐year mortality in older patients with cancer in the head and neck region.

Methods

We performed a cohort study in which all patients aged 70 years and older received a geriatric screening before treatment. Main outcome was 1‐year mortality.

Results

A total of 102 patients were included. Median age was 78.7 years (interquartile range [IQR], 72.3‐84.5), 25% were cognitive impaired, 40% were malnourished, and 28.4% used a walking device. Overall, 1‐year mortality was 42.3%. Male sex (hazard ratio [HR], 4.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.35‐13.67), malnutrition (HR, 2.55; 95% CI, 1.19‐5.16), and using a walking device (HR, 2.80; 95% CI 1.13‐6.93) were associated with higher mortality risk, independent of stage and comorbidities.

Conclusion

In older patients with head and neck cancer, the mortality rates are high. Nutritional status and mobility are determinants of 1‐year mortality, independent of tumor stage, age, and comorbidity.
The role of individuation in the development of intergroup relations
Authors: Heyman Gail D. , Yazdi Haleh
Published: February 2019

This commentary addresses the development of intergroup relations. We argue that children's reasoning about particular groups is strongly influenced by cues that shape the extent to which they conceive of group members in an undifferentiated way versus as distinct individuals. These cues include opportunities for contact with group members as well as the form and content of the information about social groups that children are exposed to. This approach to conceptualizing intergroup conflict builds upon important theoretical frameworks such as psychological essentialism, and it can be used to generate predictions about how intergroup attitudes will develop.

Highlights

We address the development of intergroup attitudes.

We argue that development is influenced by cues that shape whether group members are viewed as distinct individuals.

This framework points to ways to encourage intergroup understanding and reduce intergroup conflict.
Innovative approaches to enhancing maternal and newborn survival: Indonesia's experience in an era of global commitments to reducing mortality
Authors: Agarwal Koki , Lilly Katherine , Smith Jeffrey
Published: February 2019

Globally, countries have made impressive strides toward achieving targets set by the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to reduce maternal mortality. The subsequent Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have further challenged countries to accelerate these reductions. While Indonesia invested in several initiatives to improve care for mothers and newborns and made large gains in improving skilled care at birth, the country fell short of its MDG target. This paper outlines some of the remaining challenges and highlights the role of the US Agency for International Development‐funded Expanding Maternal and Neonatal Survival (EMAS) program in eliminating the barriers to improved care. Achieving the SDGs by 2030 will require strong cross‐sectoral collaboration and innovative approaches, such as the recent launch of Indonesia's national health insurance program, which can accelerate reductions in mortality by reaching women most in need of services.
Expanding Maternal and Neonatal Survival in Indonesia: A program overview
Authors: Hyre Anne , Caiola Nancy , Amelia Dwirani , Gandawidjaja Trisnawaty , Markus Sudibyo , Baharuddin Mohammad
Published: February 2019

The Expanding Maternal and Neonatal Survival (EMAS) program was implemented from September 2011 to March 2017 to support the Indonesian Ministry of Health to improve the quality of emergency obstetric and newborn care, increase the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency referrals, and increase accountability through local government and civic engagement. EMAS worked in over 400 public and private referral hospitals and community health centers (puskesmas) in six provinces where over 50% of all maternal deaths were occurring. Mentoring was the main method used to improve performance at facilities and within referral systems. The use of data for prospective assessment of indicators of improved quality of care and referral efficiency was strengthened. Case reviews were used to examine contextual factors contributing to maternal deaths in EMAS‐target hospitals and external evaluations were used in retrospective assessments of effectiveness of approaches. The vision of sustainability was infused into EMAS approaches from the outset. Collaboration and advocacy with district health offices in EMAS‐supported districts enabled self‐funding of selected interventions within 23 of 30 EMAS districts and 35 non‐EMAS districts. Articles in this Supplement describe outcomes and impact of EMAS approaches over the term of the program.
Assessing the effect of the Expanding Maternal and Neonatal Survival program on improving stabilization and referral for maternal and newborn complications in Indonesia
Authors: Pedrana Alisa , Qomariyah Siti Nurul , Tholandi Maya , Wijayanto Bambang , Gandawidjaja Trisnawaty , Amelia Dwirani , Apriatni Mandri , Sudirman Sudirman , Zazri Ali , Sethi Reena , Emerson Mark , Ahmed Saifuddin
Published: February 2019

Objective

To determine if the Expanding Maternal and Neonatal Survival (EMAS) program was associated with improved effectiveness of the referral system in Indonesia to facilitate timely and effective management of complications experienced by women and newborns.

Methods

Poisson regression using longitudinal monitoring data was used to assess the impact of the EMAS program on stabilization practices prior to referral. Data from a nonrandomized quasi‐experimental pre‐post evaluation study were used to assess the impact of the EMAS program along the referral pathway using χ2 analysis.

Results

Monitoring data demonstrated improvements in intervention areas for stabilization of pre‐eclampsia/eclampsia (24% vs 61%, incidence rate ratio [IRR] 2.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.3–2.6) and treatment of newborns with suspected severe infection (30% vs 54%, IRR 2.0; 95% CI, 1.6–2.4) prior to referral. The EMAS program was associated with significantly higher levels of communication, advanced notification, back referral, and hospital emergency readiness and staff preparedness compared with the comparison arm.

Conclusion

The EMAS program contributed to improvements in the management of obstetric and newborn complications, including communication, transportation, and preparation of pregnant mothers in need of referral and hospital emergency readiness and staff preparedness.
Assessment of knowledge of evidence‐based maternal and newborn care practices among midwives and nurses in six provinces in Indonesia
Authors: Sethi Reena , Tholandi Maya , Amelia Dwirani , Pedrana Alisa , Ahmed Saifuddin
Published: February 2019

Objective

To investigate knowledge of obstetric and newborn care guidelines among midwives and nurses in Indonesia, whether knowledge differs between health centers (puskesmas) and hospitals, and factors associated with knowledge.

Methods

Cross‐sectional knowledge assessments of 409 health workers in 56 public and private health facilities across six provinces were conducted. Poisson regression models examined relationships between knowledge; health workers’ age; in‐service education about labor, delivery, or newborn care in the past 3 years; and supervision in the past 3 months.

Results

The mean maternal care score among the 302 midwives for the 10 questions was 3.3 (standard deviation [SD]1.8). Hospital midwives performed slightly better than puskesmas midwives: 3.8 correct (confidence interval [CI], 3.43–4.19) vs 3.0 correct (CI, 2.77–3.26), which was a statistically significant difference. The mean knowledge score for three newborn care questions was 0.79 (SD 0.87). There was no statistically significant difference in scores between hospital workers and puskesmas providers (0.80 correct [CI, 0.64–1.00] vs 0.78 correct [CI, 0.67–0.92]). Receipt of supervision was not associated with maternal or newborn health knowledge scores.

Conclusions

There is a need to improve knowledge of maternal and newborn care guidelines among midwives and nurses in Indonesia.
Prenatal exposure to bisphenol‐A altered miRNA‐224 and protein expression of aromatase in ovarian granulosa cells concomitant with elevated serum estradiol levels in F1 adult offspring
Authors: Lite Christy , Ahmed Sheik S. S. J. , Santosh Winkins , Seetharaman Barathi
Published: February 2019

This study was aimed to predict bisphenol‐A (BPA)‐responsive miRNA's using an in silico approach and to study their expression in granulosa cells of animals exposed prenatally to BPA. Pregnant Wistar rats were exposed to BPA through water (25 μg/L, 250 μg/L, and 2.5 mg/L) during gestation. The expression of miRNA‐133b, miRNA‐378 and miRNA‐224 were analyzed in ovarian granulosa cells. BPA affected the postnatal developmental landmarks such as weight of the pups at birth and reduced anogenital distance. BPA exposed animals showed elevated serum estradiol (E2) levels, while follicle‐stimulating hormone levels were reduced. The expression of miRNA‐224 and aromatase protein levels were found to be increased. This preliminary finding reveals the impact of early life exposure to BPA on the long‐term ovarian functions that may be mediated through miRNA‐based granulosa cell response. Besides, it is also a compelling indicator for the subclinical response that could have important consequences on female fertility.
Real‐world study: Escalating targeted lipid‐lowering treatment with PCSK9‐inhibitors and lipoprotein apheresis
Authors: Spitthöver Ralf , Röseler Tilmann , Julius Ulrich , Heigl Franz , Schettler Volker J. J. , Kühn Ralf , Leebmann Josef , Raabe Andrea , Knittel Markus , Schürfeld Carsten , Moesenthin Michael , Bernhardt Wanja M. , Röseler Eberhard , Ketteler Markus , Heibges Andreas , Klingel Reinhard
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibition with monoclonal antibodies has complemented the armamentarium of lipid‐lowering therapy (LLT) before the final step of commencing chronic lipoprotein apheresis (LA). Data are scarce on patients who, after escalation of LLT with PCSK9 antibodies, have commenced chronic LA or PCSK9 antibody treatment during ongoing long‐term LA.

Patients and Methods

In this study, a cohort of 110 patients with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) due to hypercholesterolemia or concomitant lipoprotein(a)‐hyperlipoproteinemia, who received PCSK9 antibodies for the first time during routine care, were consecutively identified.

Results

Mean LDL‐C concentration prior to initiation of LA or PCSK9 antibody treatment was 5.3 ± 2.6 mmol/L (205 ± 102 mg/dL). Due to established ASCVD, the risk‐adjusted LDL‐C target value was <1.8 mmol/L (<70 mg/dL) in all patients. Use of PCSK9 antibodies increased the proportion of patients attaining the LDL‐C target concentration by 41.8% overall. Treatment emergent adverse events (TEAE) associated with PCSK9 antibody medication were reported in 35 patients (31.8%). Discontinuation of PCSK9 antibody therapy due to TEAEs occurred in 25 patients (22.7%).

Conclusion

Finally, 55.5% of patients received a combination of PCSK9 antibody therapy and LA at individually optimized treatment frequencies resulting in an increase of target attainment in 54.1% of patients. About 18.1% of chronic LA patients terminated LA treatment in this real‐world study. The termination of long‐term LA therapy, which has hitherto prevented the progression of ASCVD, requires careful individual risk assessment and cannot be recommended by the general criteria of LDL‐C reduction.
Handling suicidal crises in psychodynamic psychotherapy: A process case study
Authors: Bittencourt Aline Alvares , de Barcellos Eduarda Duarte , Serralta Fernanda Barcellos
Published: February 2019

The core characteristics of patients with a borderline personality disorder (BPD) affect the therapeutic relationship and frequently lead psychodynamic therapists to adapt interventions to manage crises. This study aims to increase knowledge of how such crises affect the therapeutic process. Using her therapist’s notes, combined with the Psychotherapy Process Q‐Set, we studied the therapeutic process of the first 44 therapy sessions of a female BPD patient with many depressive‐like symptoms, including a disruptive period that included hospitalization. We found marked differences between different phases of therapy (before a crisis, acute disorganization, hospitalization, and back to the consulting room). The analysis suggests that a crisis and hospitalization may occur without necessarily damaging the therapeutic process. The therapist’s ability to tolerate aggression, to explore and contain suicide wishes and behaviors, and to flexibly adapt techniques to patient needs, are among the therapeutic attitudes and behaviors that can help restore an effective psychodynamic process.
Integrative analysis of OIP5‐AS1/HUR1 to discover new potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gharesouran Jalal , Taheri Mohammad , Sayad Arezou , Mazdeh Mehrdokht , Omrani Mir Davood
Published: February 2019

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a devastating autoimmune disease of the central nervous system associated with demyelination and axonal injury. This study was designed to find potential lncRNAs and their targets that are associated with the molecular basis of MS pathogenesis. In this study, peripheral blood samples were obtained from 50 relapsing‐remitting MS (RR‐MS) patients and 50 healthy controls. lncRNAs and their target were selected for validation using TaqMan Real‐Time PCR. Interactions were studied based on approaches that used to investigation biological functions and signaling pathways affected by differentially expressed messenger RNAs (mRNAs). The results of this study indicate an increase in the expression of HUR1 (p = 0.0001), CPSF7 (p = 0.02), and reduction of CSTF2 expression (p = 0.04). Also, an increase in the expression of OIP5‐AS1 (p = 0.01) was observed in men less than 30 years old. We performed a comparative analysis of the long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and then we ranked them as candidate biomarkers according to a decreasing area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) and plotted the results. Dysregulation of lncRNA expression has been linked to diseases. Further studies on the HUR1 gene can be used as diagnostic tools for the identification of high‐risk individuals in families with a history of disease before, during, and even after treatment. Our data uncovered the expression profiles of lncRNAs and mRNAs in MS patients, which will help delineate the molecular mechanisms in MS pathogenesis. However, further studies need to determine the precise role of these genes in the pathological process in MS.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: A rare complication of acute pancreatitis
Authors: Shah Jimil , Mandavdhare Harshal S , Birda Chhagan Lal , Dutta Usha , Sharma Vishal
Published: February 2019

Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) is a poorly understood entity involving multiple organs and having grave prognosis if not treated promptly. Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a rare cause of TTP and TTP is also a rare complication of acute pancreatitis. TTP is induced in AP by poorly understood mechanism, which involves multiple pathways apart from only ADAMTS13 deficiency. Here, we report a case of a 32‐year‐old male who developed acute pancreatitis due to chronic alcoholism. He developed signs of TTP from Day 4 of his onset of pain. High clinical suspicion and prompt initiation of plasmapheresis was associated with good outcome. In this case report, we have discussed details of our case and the different mechanisms involved in pathogenesis of TTP in AP and their outcome with prompt management.
Design, Synthesis, and Anticancer Activity of Novel Benzothiazole Analogues
Authors: Hassan Aisha Y. , Sarg Marwa T. , Hussein Ebtehal M.
Published: February 2019

On the pharmaceutical account of the reported anticancer activity of benzothiazole derivatives, differently substituted benzothiazole derivatives2a–cto34a,b, attached at 2‐position to different heterocyclic moieties, were synthesizedviadifferent chemical reactions. Thirteen of the newly synthesized compounds were selected by the National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and evaluated for theirin vitroantitumor activity against 60 human tumor cell lines in a one‐dose screening panel among which two compounds4and17showed high activity and were selected for further evaluation in the five‐dose full panel assay, in which compound4exerted powerful growth inhibitory activity against all cell lines with GI50ranging from 0.683 to 4.66 μM/L in addition to excellent lethal activity against most of the cell lines.
Climatological characteristics of planetary boundary layer height over Japan
Authors: Zhang Yehui , Li Siyuan
Published: February 2019

Based on the 30‐year (1988–2017) radiosonde observations, the climatological characteristics of the planetary boundary layer height (PBLH) over Japan, as well as the long‐term changes, are investigated. We firstly compared four different methods to determine the PBLH. Results show that the bulk Richardson number method has the best performance among all these methods. At all studied stations, monthly median PBLHs in the morning are generally higher than the ones in the evening. Bimodal structure of seasonal PBLHs are found over Japan. Daytime PBLH peaks in spring and autumn and achieves the minimum in summer and winter. Night‐time PBLH shows less seasonal variations. It is found that the PBLHs in the central and southern part of Japan could be dominant by the variations of surface temperature, while the variations of surface relative humidity (RH) may be responsible for the PBLHs in the northern part of Japan. Moreover, sea fog which is associated with high RH and temperature inversion also has an obvious influence on PBLHs in northern Japan. Trend study shows that PBLHs in most stations slightly increased during the past 30 years.
Lower extremity work along with triceps surae structure and activation is altered with jumping after Achilles tendon repair
Authors: Zellers Jennifer A. , Marmon Adam R. , Ebrahimi Anahid , Grävare Silbernagel Karin
Published: February 2019

Achilles tendon rupture leads to long term plantar flexor deficits. The purpose of this study was to describe changes in jumping biomechanics along with triceps surae structure and activation in individuals after Achilles repair. Eleven individuals 1–3 years following Achilles repair and 10 healthy controls were included. Kinetics and kinematics, analyzed using a constituent lower extremity work (CLEW) approach, and muscle activity using surface electromyography (EMG) were collected during a unilateral hopping task. Triceps surae myotendinous structure was assessed using ultrasound imaging. There were no differences in jump height, absolute limb work, or cost of transport between groups. During takeoff, the knee did more (p < 0.001) and ankle did less concentric work (p < 0.001), and lateral gastrocnemius rate of rise was higher (p = 0.02) on the ruptured side. During landing, the knee did more eccentric work (p = 0.033) and lateral gastrocnemius (p = 0.003) and soleus (p = 0.02) activation amplitude prior to landing was higher on the ruptured side. Individuals after Achilles tendon repair shift work toward the knee and alter muscle recruitment. Differences in lateral gastrocnemius activity may indicate that it is well‐situated to generate power during takeoff and assist in landing with the soleus. The lack of change in muscle activity and decreased cross sectional area of the medial gastrocnemius may suggest that this muscle atrophies and does not accommodate to the hopping task. Clinical Significance: Proximal lower extremity strengthening along with emphasizing medial gastrocnemius and soleus activation during the recovery of patients with Achilles tendon repair may be rehabilitative targets for improved jumping performance. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Single injection of PTH improves osteoclastic parameters of remodeling at a stress fracture site in rats
Authors: Bakr Mahmoud M. , Kelly Wendy L. , Brunt Athena R. , Paterson Bradley C. , Massa Helen M. , Morrison Nigel A. , Forwood Mark R.
Published: February 2019

Stress fractures (SFx) result from repetitive cyclical loading of bone. They are frequent athletic injuries and underlie atypical femoral fractures following long‐term bisphosphonate (BP) therapy. We investigated the effect of a single PTH injection on the healing of SFx in the rat ulna. SFx was induced in 120 female Wistar rats (300 ± 15 g) during a single loading session. A single PTH (8 µg.100g−1) or vehicle (VEH) saline injection was administered 24 h after loading. Rats were divided into four groups (n = 15) and ulnae were examined 1, 2, 6, or 10 weeks following SFx. Two Toluidine Blue and TRAP‐stained sections of the SFx were examined for histomorphometric analysis using Osteomeasure™ software. An increase in osteoclast number (N.Oc) and perimeter (Oc.Pm) was observed two weeks following PTH treatment (p < 0.01). At 6 weeks, bone formation was the main activity in BMUs. At 10 weeks, the proportion of healing along the SFx line remained 50% greater in PTH groups (p = 0.839), leading to a 43% reduction in the porosity area of BMU (p = 0.703). The main effect of time was a significant variable along the entire SFx remodeling cycle, with significant interactions between time and treatment type affecting (N.Oc) (p = 0.047) and (Oc.Pm) (p = 0.002). We conclude that a single PTH injection increases osteoclastogenesis by the second week of the remodeling cycle in a SFx in vivo. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
What happens to in situ net soil nitrogen mineralization when nitrogen fertility changes?
Authors: Zou Congming , Grove John H. , Pearce Robert C. , Coyne Mark S. , Ren Ke
Published: February 2019

Does net soil nitrogen (N) mineralization change if N‐fertility management is suddenly altered? This study, conducted in a long‐term no‐tillage maize (Zea mays L.) fertility experiment (established 1970), evaluated how changing previous fertilizer N (PN) management influenced in situ net soil N mineralization (NSNM). Net soil N mineralization was measured by incubating undisturbed soil cores with anion and cation exchange resins. In each of three PN fertilizer application plots (0, 84, and 336 kg N ha−1), another three fertilizer application rates (0, 84, and 336 kg N ha−1) were imposed and considered the current fertilizer N (CN) management. Generally, PN‐336 (336 kg N ha−1) had significantly greater NSNM than PN‐0 (0 kg N ha−1) or PN‐84 (84 kg N ha−1), which reflected differences in soil organic‐C (SOC) and soil total‐N (STN). The three CN rates had no significant effect on NSNM when they were applied to PN‐0 or PN‐84, but CN‐336 (336 kg N ha−1) had significantly higher NSNM than CN‐0 (0 kg N ha−1) or CN‐84 (84 kg N ha−1) in the PN‐336 plots. The CN or “added N interaction” used the indigenous soil organic matter (SOM) pool and the added sufficient fertilizer N. Environmental factors, including precipitation and mean air temperature, explained the most variability in average daily soil N mineralization rate during each incubation period. Soil water content at each sampling day could also explain NSNM loss via potential denitrification. We conclude that “added N interaction” in the field condition was the combined effect of SOM and sufficient fertilizer N input.
Urbanization and tick parasitism in birds of coastal southeastern Virginia
Authors: Heller Erin L. , Gaff Holly D. , Brinkerhoff R. Jory , Walters Eric L.
Published: February 2019

One of North America's major avian migratory pathways occurs along a large anthropogenically modified coastal region of southeastern Virginia, USA. Because hundreds of avian species migrate along the east coast of North America, understanding factors affecting birds and their health is of ecological and conservation interest. Within southeastern Virginia, 14 tick species have been documented, all of which may serve as vectors of vertebrate pathogens. We tested 5 hypotheses to understand how varying levels of urbanization within an urban matrix of a coastal region affected avian parasitism rates. We sampled resident and migratory birds for ticks across an urbanization gradient at 5 permanent and 6 ad hoc sites from August 2012 to August 2014 and determined parasitism rates at the landscape and site scales. At the landscape scale, the proportion of birds parasitized by ticks was reduced at more urbanized sites. Urbanized sites were largely associated with higher water and impervious surfaces in the surrounding area, which may have prevented dispersal of ticks or hosts to isolated urban locations, and lower tree cover, which likely reduced tick survival because of decreased leaf litter. At the site scale, properties associated with being on or near the ground (i.e., foraging guild and age) were the best predictors of tick parasitism. These findings demonstrate that the effects of urbanization are neither uniform nor straightforward. In addition to affecting avian species composition, anthropogenic changes to the landscape are affecting the relationship between avian hosts and their parasites, a finding that has important implications for avian conservation efforts and management practices. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.