bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Epidemiological Study of Traumatic Head Injury in a Tertiary Care Center in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Kumaran K. Myl , Raja Pragadeesh , Jasmine M.
Published: August 2019

Introduction: Traumatic brain injury is a major public health problem in India. The severity of a traumatic brain injury may range from mild to severe. The increase in economic growth in India coupled with rise in population, motorization and industrialization has contributed to a significant increase in TBI with each advancing year. India having the highest rate of head injury in the world. In India more than 100000 lives are lost every year with over 1 million suffering from serious head injury.

Objectives: To assess the risk factors among for head injury cases and assess the outcome of the traumatic brain injury patients.

Materials and Methods: A cross sectional Study conducted among all patients with traumatic head injury attending tertiary care centre and those admitted in intensive care unit with the history of traumatic head injury for the duration of one year (August 2016 to July 2017). Data was collected through questionnaire, hospital records and collected from patients. Data Collected was entered in MS office excel and analyzed in SPSS version 21.

Results: Totally 295 cases were reported with history of traumatic brain injury, out of which 82.7% were males and 17.3% were females. Road traffic accidents was the most common cause for TBI 86.4%. Most of the patient was between the age group of 21-40 (51.5%). Most of the cases were from rural areas 55.3%. Based on GCS 49.5%, 28.5% and 22.0% patients had mild, moderate and severe injury respectively. 44.7% injuries occurred between the time period 04.00PM to 12.00AM.

Conclusion: This study revealed that most traumatic head injury occur due to Road traffic accident stressing the urgent need to create awareness and conduct health education about prevention of traumatic head injury.
Diagnosis of Therapy-related Acute Myeloid Leukemia with t(8;21)(q22;q22.1) after Treatment for Mantle Cell Lymphoma and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Corrêa Patrícia Colombo , Santos-Pirath Íris Mattos , Cardoso Chandra Chiappin , Mattiolo Camila , Dias Bruno Vieira , Maioral Mariana Franzoni , Santos-Silva Maria Cláudia
Published: August 2019

Aims: We report a rare case of therapy-related AML with t(8;21)(q22;q22.1) that occurred after treatment for mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Presentation of Case: A 52 years-old male patient was diagnosed with MCL in leukemic phase. The treatment consisted in R-CHOP rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone, then patient experienced remission. Three months later, he presented a lump that was diagnosed as OSCC, which was surgically removed and treated with cisplatin and radiotherapy. Then, the patient’s hemogram presented 35.0% of blasts and, after morphologic, phenotypic and molecular analysis, it was classified as AML with t(8;21)(q22;q22.1). However, due to the previous historic of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the final diagnosis was t-AML.

Discussion: The correct diagnosis of therapy related malignancies is important due to its severity as they are very aggressive and, usually, considered incurable. t-AMLs with t(8;21)(q22;q22.1) is considered as favorable karyotype, still, it has a poorer outcome compared with its de novo counterpart.

Conclusion: t-AML with t(8;21)(q22;q22.1) is rare and few cases are described in the literature. More reports are necessary to better elucidate the mechanisms involved in this disease to define better treatment strategies to prevent these events and to improve the poor outcomes.
Assessment of CPR Knowledge among Clinical Radiography Students at a Tertiary Institution in Nigeria
Authors: Akpaniwo G. M. , Sadiq A. A. , Iliyasu I. Y. , Abubakar U. , Gurama A. D.
Published: August 2019

Background: Current state of practice of medical imaging now encompasses advance supportive care to patient, in addition to the supportive care offered for the stabilization of patient before radiologic procedures. Advance supportive care, such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is offered to patient who may have cardiopulmonary arrests.

Objective: To assess the knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) among clinical radiography students of a tertiary institution in Sokoto.

Methods: A cross section study employing a semi-structured and self-administered questionnaire, consisting of two section, designed with the aim of the study were distributed among 82 clinical radiography students (300 – 500 level), in the 2017/2018 academy session of the tertiary institution (Usmanu Danfodiyo University) in Sokoto. The data were extracted using SPSS version 20 and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: A total of 75 questionnaire were returned, yielding a response rate of 91.5%. Respondents comprised 53 male and 22 female aged 20 to 34 years with mean age of 27 years. It was observed that 68% of the students had never had a CPR training and about 4% of the respondents knew the recommended compression to ventilation ratio during a CPR. While 1.3% knew the recommended chest compression to be performed each minute when giving CPR. Majority of the respondents (94.7%) were of the opinion, that CPR training should be made mandatory for all clinical radiography students.

Conclusion: Base on the evidence presented within this study, there is knowledge gap in the practice of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) among clinical radiography students, as majority of the students do not have adequate knowledge on the practice of CPR.
The Effect of Relationship Marketing towards Enhancing Organizational Performance
Authors: Gudeta Tadesse Gezahegn , Abere Tibebu Woldie
Published: August 2019

Businesses are living in a world of stiff competition. To be successful in this competition, considering customer relationship is a requisite, and organizations need to concentrate more on applying relationship marketing variables. The objective of the study is to assess the effects of relationship marketing towards enhancing organizational performance. The researchers made use of exploratory research design to make an in-depth investigation of the problem and to develop a working hypothesis from an operational aspect. Customers and employees of Ethio-telecom, Kobo branch were the target population of the study. A five point Likert-Type questionnaire and structured interview were administered to collect the pertinent data among selected Staffs of Ethio-telecom; kobo branch. Stratified sampling technique was used to identify the sample respondents from the sampling frame and the data were analyzed by using SPSS version 20 software. The result of the study shows that commitment has highest effect on performance followed by conflict handling (β=0.287,p=0.01), communication(β=0.229, P=0.01) and trust (0.154, p=0.05) respectively. The need to augment the level of loyalty to customers, developing a cooperative behavior to clients, hire employees who are likely to become linked to the organization, rendering a flexible service packages, providing sufficient and trustworthy services and demonstrate knowledge and expertise and confer continuous and uninterrupted services are among the possible recommendations forwarded on the basis of the finding of the study.
Assessment of Knowledge and Competencies of Community Pharmacists for Differentiated HIV Care and Services in Jos, Nigeria
Authors: Dapar M. L. P. , Joseph B. N. , Damun P. A. , Okunlola C. R. , Alphonsus P. N. , Aya B. M.
Published: August 2019

Background: Knowledge and competence of community pharmacists in HIV care, are essential for translating the goals of differentiated care into improved outcomes.

Aims: To assess the knowledge and competence of community pharmacists in Jos, for differentiated HIV care and services.

Study Design: Cross-sectional questionnaire survey.

Place and Duration of Study: Community pharmacies in Jos North and Jos South local government areas of Plateau state, North-Central Nigeria, between September to November, 2018.

Methodology: We included community pharmacists who responded to six items on knowledge of HIV therapeutics with each correct answer recording a score of 1 and zero for wrong answers. Respondents with a correct score of 5 or 6 represent good knowledge. We examined competence on a 36 item scale graded 1 for weak competence and 5 for strong competence. Factor analysis; reduce the 36 scale items down to competency domains. Frequencies and percentages for reported competencies were presented. In addition, aggregated scores for each of the competency domains were used to compare respondents based on years of experience, educational level and employment status in community pharmacy. All levels of significance were set at p≤ 0.05.

Results: 73 out of 110 community pharmacists responded to the questionnaire. Of these, only 25% reported good level of knowledge in HIV therapeutics. 69% reported strong competency in identifying drug therapy problems, 31% inter-professional and patient communication. There was statistically significant difference in competency domains based on years of practice experience and employment status p<0.05. Respondents with 10 years or less of practice experience recorded higher mean ranked scores compared to those with 11 or more years. Similarly, employed pharmacists recorded higher mean ranked scores than those who owned their business.

Conclusion: Overall, respondents reported low knowledge and weak competency in HIV care emphasizing the need for specialized training before implementation of differentiated care model.
Determinants of Microfinance Loan Default: An Empirical Investigation in Sri Lanka
Authors: Priyankara D. T. , Sumanasiri E. A. G.
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this research is to explore the factors that influence microfinance loan default in Sri Lanka. Both a deductive and a quantitative approach were employed. A structured questionnaire was designed by 5 Likert-scale. Questionnaires were distributed among 133 microfinance loan borrowers in the region of the Matugama Divisional Secretariat using convenient sampling. SPSS version 22 used to perform the exploratory factor analysis. The findings of this study confirmed three factors useful to explain microfinance loan default in Sri Lanka. These are the actions of the Microfinance Institute to control loan defaulting; the characteristics of the borrowers’ family and loan group; and macro-economic issues. The findings of this study could be used by managers of Microfinance Institutes to manage their credit risk and customer portfolio. Certain policy implications such as possibility of granting access to Credit Information Bureau of Sri Lanka, accessing credit history of customers and government decisions directing Microfinance Institutes to request securities from its customers are few of them.
Accurate Control of Core–Shell Upconversion Nanoparticles through Anisotropic Strain Engineering
Authors: Zhao Jianxiong , Chen Xian , Chen Bing , Luo Xue , Sun Tianying , Zhang Weiwei , Wang Changjian , Lin Jun , Su Dong , Qiao Xvsheng , Wang Feng
Published: August 2019

The effect of anisotropic interfacial strain on epitaxial growth and optical emission of sodium rare‐earth fluoride core–shell nanoparticles is investigated. A variety of sodium rare‐earth fluoride shells are grown on hexagonal‐phase NaYF4:Yb/Er core for providing anisotropic tuning of interfacial strains. Using high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction characterizations, the correlations between the epitaxial habits and the interfacial strains are quantitatively addressed. Furthermore, the growth affinity is tuned by controlling precursor concentration in conjunction with Ca2+ doping, which results in accurate regulation of the anisotropic growth. The lattice strain resulting from mismatched epitaxy is found to enhance luminescence response of the nanoparticles to temperature change.
A Microfluidic Tool for Fine‐Tuning Motion of Soft Micromotors
Authors: Keller Shauni , Hu Guo Xun , Gherghina‐Tudor Maria I. , Teora Serena P. , Wilson Daniela A.
Published: August 2019

Microfluidics is an ideal tool for the design of self‐assembled micromotors. It allows for easy change of solutions, catalysts, and flow rates, which affect shape, structure, and motion of the resulting micromotors. A microfluidic tool generating aqueous‐two‐phase‐separating droplets of UV‐polymerizable poly(ethylene glycol)diacrylate (PEGDA) and an inert phase, salt, or polysaccharide, is utilized to fabricate asymmetric microbeads. Different molecular weights and branching of polysaccharides are used to study the effect on shape, surface roughness, and motion of the particles. The molecular weight of the polysaccharide determines the roughness of the motors inner surface. Smooth openings are obtained by low molecular weight dextran, while high surface roughness is obtained with a high molecular weight branched polysaccharide. Since roughness plays an important role in bubble pinning, it influences both speed and trajectory. Increasing speeds are obtained with increasing roughness and trajectories ranging from linear, circular to tumble‐and‐run depending on the nature of bubble pinning. This microfluidic tool allows for fine‐tuning shape, structure, and motion by easy change of solutions, catalysts, and flow rates.
Focus on the Essential: Extracting the Decisive Energy Barrier of a Complex Process
Authors: Aeschlimann Simon , Neff Julia , Bechstein Ralf , Paris Chiara , Floris Andrea , Kantorovich Lev , Kühnle Angelika
Published: August 2019

Molecular processes at surfaces can be composed of a rather complex sequence of steps. The kinetics of even seemingly simple steps are demonstrated to depend on a multitude of factors, which prohibits applying a simple Arrhenius law. This complexity can make it challenging to experimentally determine the kinetic parameters of a single step. However, a molecular‐level understanding of molecular processes such as structural transitions requires elucidating the atomistic details of the individual steps. Here, a strategy is presented to extract the energy barrier of a decisive step in a very complex structural transition by systematically addressing all factors that impact the transition kinetics. Only by eliminating these factors in the measurement the experimental data will follow an Arrhenius law and the barrier can be extracted for the single step. Using the system of 2,5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid on calcite (10.4) as an example, the energy barrier is determined for the attachment‐assisted dissociation of molecular dimers in the structural transition from a striped to a dense molecular surface structure. This disentanglement approach is mandatory for a direct comparison with theoretical results and provides molecular‐level insights into the transition mechanism.
Facile and High‐Efficient Synthesis of High‐Performance Supercapacitor Electrode Materials Based on the Synergistic Intercalation and Oxidation of Layered Tungsten Disulfide
Authors: Tang Xing‐Yan , Li Meng‐Fan , Gao Li‐Fang , Yan Han , Deng Si‐Ming , Fan Jian‐Biao , Zheng Ming‐Sen , Deng Shun‐Liu , Zhang Qian‐Yan , Xie Su‐Yuan , Zheng Lan‐Sun
Published: August 2019

The electrochemical performance of tungsten oxide (WO3) is closely related to its morphology and lattice symmetry. However, current synthetic approaches are typically limited by product controllability, environmental friendliness, and low scalability. Here, a facile and high‐efficient synthesis is reported of WO3 nanosheets based on the synergistic intercalation and oxidation of layered tungsten disulfide (WS2). The complete conversion from WS2 to WO3 is confirmed by crystallographic, spectroscopic, microscopic, and elemental analysis. The prepared WO3 nanosheets exhibit a superior specific capacitance of 480 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1 and a good cycling stability at a current density of 10 A g−1. Notably, benefitting from the 2D nanosheet structure and the high lattice symmetry, the cubic WO3 nanosheets possess a high specific capacitance of 384 F g−1 at a high current density of 20 A g−1, which is much higher than that of other WO3‐based electrode materials.
Acoustofluidic Synthesis of Particulate Nanomaterials
Authors: Huang Po‐Hsun , Zhao Shuaiguo , Bachman Hunter , Nama Nitesh , Li Zhishang , Chen Chuyi , Yang Shujie , Wu Mengxi , Zhang Steven Peiran , Huang Tony Jun
Published: August 2019

Synthesis of nanoparticles and particulate nanomaterials with tailored properties is a central step toward many applications ranging from energy conversion and imaging/display to biosensing and nanomedicine. While existing microfluidics‐based synthesis methods offer precise control over the synthesis process, most of them rely on passive, partial mixing of reagents, which limits their applicability and potentially, adversely alter the properties of synthesized products. Here, an acoustofluidic (i.e., the fusion of acoustic and microfluidics) synthesis platform is reported to synthesize nanoparticles and nanomaterials in a controllable, reproducible manner through acoustic‐streaming‐based active mixing of reagents. The acoustofluidic strategy allows for the dynamic control of the reaction conditions simply by adjusting the strength of the acoustic streaming. With this platform, the synthesis of versatile nanoparticles/nanomaterials is demonstrated including the synthesis of polymeric nanoparticles, chitosan nanoparticles, organic–inorganic hybrid nanomaterials, metal–organic framework biocomposites, and lipid‐DNA complexes. The acoustofluidic synthesis platform, when incorporated with varying flow rates, compositions, or concentrations of reagents, will lend itself unprecedented flexibility in establishing various reaction conditions and thus enable the synthesis of versatile nanoparticles and nanomaterials with prescribed properties.
Versatile Applications of Metal Single‐Atom @ 2D Material Nanoplatforms
Authors: Zhang Bin , Fan Taojian , Xie Ni , Nie Guohui , Zhang Han
Published: August 2019

Recently, emerging 2D material‐supported metal single‐atom catalysts (SACs) are receiving enormous attention in heterogeneous catalysis. Due to their well‐defined, precisely located metal centers, unique metal–support interaction and identical coordination environment, these catalysts serve as excellent models for understanding the fundamental issues in catalysis as well as exhibiting intriguing practical applications. Understanding the correlations between metal–support combinations and the catalytic performance at the atomic level can be achieved on the SACs@2D materials nanoplatforms. Herein, recent advances of metal SACs on various types of 2D materials are reviewed, especially their exciting applications in the fields of chemicals, energy, and the environment. Based on the summary and perspectives, this work should contribute to the rational design of perfect metal SACs with versatile properties.
High‐Performance Proximity Sensors with Nanogroove‐Template‐Enhanced Extended‐Gate Field‐Effect Transistor Configuration
Authors: Liu Weilin , Niu Yixue , Chen Qiusong , Jiang Hanxiao , Xu Fan , Zhu Guodong
Published: August 2019

In recent years human–machine interaction has become increasingly important in industrial applications and daily life. Proximity sensors are expected to become an important part of such systems. The mechanisms of these sensors are usually based on ultrasound, capacitance, triboelectric effect, optical imaging or semiconducting devices. The fabrication and sensing performance of solution‐based organic transistor proximity sensors is reported. To enhance electrical performance, nanogroove templates are introduced to guide the oriented growth of organic semiconducting layer. The templates are realized by friction‐transferring polytetrafluoroethylene thin layers onto SiO2/Si substrates. An extended gate structure for proximity sensing is designed, in which one end of a silver wire is electrically connected with the gate of the transistor and the other end serves as the sensing end. Proximity sensing is characterized by bringing various charged stimuli close to the sensor and recording the resulting change in drain current. The sensor showed good repeatability during the approach and withdrawal of a stimulus. A maximum current response of 2.2 μA between distances of 3 mm and 53 mm and distance sensitivity of 2.5 nA mm‐1 at a distance of 13 mm are obtained when a charged polytetrafluoroethylene rod is moved up and down above the sensing end.
The Role of Grain Boundaries in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Castro‐Méndez Andrés‐Felipe , Hidalgo Juanita , Correa‐Baena Juan‐Pablo
Published: August 2019

Grain boundaries (GBs) play an important role in most polycrystalline solar cells. In perovskite solar cells, the research community is just starting to understand their effects on performance and long‐term durability. In this essay, three important questions are explored: Do GBs affect: 1) recombination and thus open‐circuit voltage? Not dramatically, if at all; 2) current–voltage hysteresis? Most studies show that hysteresis is dominated by defects at GBs; and 3) long‐term durability? Yes, GBs definitely help increase the rate of perovskite degradation. In this essay, the latest reports are summarized and the authors' perspective on this very important subject is given.
Flexible Na/K‐Ion Full Batteries from the Renewable Cotton Cloth–Derived Stable, Low‐Cost, and Binder‐Free Anode and Cathode
Authors: Guo Jin‐Zhi , Gu Zhen‐Yi , Zhao Xin‐Xin , Wang Mei‐Yi , Yang Xu , Yang Yang , Li Wen‐Hao , Wu Xing‐Long
Published: August 2019

Flexible Na/K‐ion batteries (NIBs/KIBs) exhibit great potential applications and have drawn much attention due to the continuous development of flexible electronics. However, there are still many huge challenges, mainly the design and construction of flexible electrodes (cathode and anode) with outstanding electrochemical properties. In this work, a unique approach to prepare flexible electrode is proposed by utilizing the commercially available cotton cloth–derived carbon cloth (CC) as a flexible anode and the substrate of a cathode. The binder‐free, self‐supporting, and flexible cathodes (FCC@N/KPB) are prepared by growing Prussian blue microcubes on the flexible CC (FCC). Na/K‐ion full batteries (FCC//FCC@N/KPB) are assembled by using FCC and FCC@N/KPB as anode and cathode, respectively. Electrochemical performance, mechanical flexibility, and practicability of FCC//FCC@N/KPB Na/K‐ion full batteries are evaluated in both coin cells and flexible pouch cells, demonstrating their superior energy‐storage properties (excellent rate performance and cycling stability) and remarkable flexibility (they can work under different bending states). This work provides a new and profound strategy to design flexible electrodes, promoting the development of flexible NIBs/KIBs to be practical and sustainable.
Simultaneous Cobalt and Phosphorous Doping of MoS2 for Improved Catalytic Performance on Polysulfide Conversion in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Lin Haibin , Zhang Shengliang , Zhang Tianran , Ye Hualin , Yao Qiaofeng , Zheng Guangyuan Wesley , Lee Jim Yang
Published: August 2019

The lithium–sulfur batteries are susceptible to the loss of sulfur as dissolved polysulfides in the electrolyte and their ensuing redox shutting effect. The acceleration of the conversion kinetics of dissolved polysulfides into the insoluble sulfur and lithium sulfide via electrocatalysis has the appeal of being a root‐cause solution. MoS2 is the most common electrocatalyst used for this purpose. It is demonstrated that how the effectiveness can be improved by simultaneous cobalt and phosphorus doping of MoS2 nanotubes (P‐Mo0.9Co0.1S2‐2, containing 1.81 at% of P). Cobalt doping induces the transformation of MoS2 from 2H phase to metallic 1T phase, which improves the electrical conductivity of the MoS2. The Co–P coordinated sites on the catalyst surface are highly active for the polysulfide conversion reactions. Consequently, a sulfur cathode with P‐Mo0.9Co0.1S2‐2 can decrease the capacity fade rate from 0.28% per cycle before modification (over 150 cycles at 0.5C rate) to 0.046% per cycle after modification (over 600 cycles at 1C rate). P‐Mo0.9Co0.1S2‐2 also enhances the high rate performance from a capacity of 338 to 931 mAh g−1 at 6C rate. The results of this study provide the first direct evidence of the beneficial effects of heteroatom codoping of polysulfide conversion catalysts.
Role of charge and hydrophobicity in translocation of cell‐penetrating peptides into Candida albicans cells
Authors: Gong Zifan , Doolin Mary T. , Adhikari Sayanee , Stroka Kimberly M. , Karlsson Amy J.
Published: August 2019

Although the interactions of cell‐penetrating peptides (CPPs) with mammalian cells have been widely studied, much less is known about their interactions with fungal cells. To study how the properties of CPPs affect translocation into fungal cells, we designed variants of the peptides pVEC and SynB with altered levels of charge and hydrophobicity and evaluated the translocation of the variants into the important human fungal pathogen Candida albicans. Charge played a greater role in translocation efficacy of the peptides than hydrophobicity, with a higher net positive charge leading to higher level of translocation into C. albicans and a higher level of cytosolic localization. Hydrophobicity had little effect on translocation efficacy, but a low level of hydrophobicity did lead to increased vacuolar localization and an energy‐dependent translocation mechanism. Our results suggest that CPPs can be designed for desired levels of cargo delivery into fungal cells and for desired translocation mechanisms.
Engineering 2‐oxoglutarate dehydrogenase to a 2‐oxo aliphatic dehydrogenase complex by optimizing consecutive components
Authors: Chakraborty Joydeep , Nemeria Natalia S. , Zhang Xu , Nareddy Pradeep R. , Szostak Michal , Farinas Edgardo , Jordan Frank
Published: August 2019

Multienzyme complexes have the potential for green catalysis of sequential reactions. The Escherichia coli 2‐oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex (OGDHc) was converted from a 2‐oxoglutarate dehydrogenase to a 2‐oxo aliphatic dehydrogenase complex by engineering consecutive components. OGDHc catalyzes succinyl‐CoA synthesis in the Krebs cycle. OGDHc is composed of three components: E1o, 2‐oxoglutarate dehydrogenase; E2o, dihydrolipoylsuccinyl transferase; E3, dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase. There are three substrate checkpoints. One is in E1o and two in E2o. OGDHc was reprogrammed to accept alternative substrates by evolving the E1o and E2o components. Wt‐ODGHc does not accept aliphatic substrates. E1o was previously engineered to accept a non‐natural aliphatic substrate, 2‐oxovalerate (2‐OV). E2o also required engineering to accept 2‐OV in the overall reaction. Hence, saturation mutagenesis libraries of E2o were screened for 2‐OV activity. E2o‐S333M, E2o‐H348F, E2o‐H348Q, and E2o‐H348Y were identified to show activity for 2‐OV in the reconstituted complex. Variants also displayed activity for larger aliphatic substrates.
Knee osteoarthritis among airport baggage handlers: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Mikkelsen Sigurd , Pedersen Ellen B. , Brauer Charlotte , Møller Karina L. , Alkjær Tine , Koblauch Henrik , Simonsen Erik B. , Thygesen Lau C.
Published: August 2019

Background

Knee osteoarthritis is a common and often disabling disorder, which has been related to knee‐straining work. However, exposure response relations are uncertain and there are few prospective studies. We studied prospectively if incident knee osteoarthritis is associated with cumulative exposure as an airport baggage handler, lifting on average 5000 kg/d.

Methods

The study is based on the Copenhagen Airport Cohort, a historical cohort of male baggage handlers and a reference group of unskilled men from the greater Copenhagen area, followed from 1990 to 2012. Cumulative years of employment as a baggage handler was based on information from company employment and union registers. Outcome was first hospital admission with a discharge diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis and/or knee replacement, ascertained from the Danish National Patient Register.

Results

The cohort contained 3442 baggage handlers and 65 511 workers in the reference group. The unadjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) of knee osteoarthritis increased steeply with cumulative years as a baggage handler. Although the exposure‐response pattern became weaker and statistically nonsignificant (P ≈ .10) when adjusting for age, the risk of knee osteoarthritis was still increased in baggage handlers at the highest exposure level. Additional analyses showed that the association between age and osteoarthritis was stronger for baggage handlers (IRR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.68‐2.60) than for referents (IRR = 1.58; 95% CI: 1.53‐1.63), indicating that knee osteoarthritis occurred at a younger age among baggage handlers than in the reference group.

Conclusions

The results of this prospective cohort study support that long‐term heavy lifting increases the risk of knee osteoarthritis.
Electroreduction of CO2 on Single‐Site Copper‐Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Material: Selective Formation of Ethanol and Reversible Restructuration of the Metal Sites
Authors: Karapinar Dilan , Huan Ngoc Tran , Ranjbar Sahraie Nastaran , Li Jingkun , Wakerley David , Touati Nadia , Zanna Sandrine , Taverna Dario , Galvão Tizei Luiz Henrique , Zitolo Andrea , Jaouen Frédéric , Mougel Victor , Fontecave Marc
Published: August 2019

It is generally believed that CO2 electroreduction to multi‐carbon products such as ethanol or ethylene may be catalyzed with significant yield only on metallic copper surfaces, implying large ensembles of copper atoms. Here, we report on an inexpensive Cu‐N‐C material prepared via a simple pyrolytic route that exclusively feature single copper atoms with a CuN4 coordination environment, atomically dispersed in a nitrogen‐doped conductive carbon matrix. This material achieves aqueous CO2 electroreduction to ethanol at a Faradaic yield of 55 % under optimized conditions (electrolyte: 0.1 m CsHCO3, potential: −1.2 V vs. RHE and gas‐phase recycling set up), as well as CO electroreduction to C2‐products (ethanol and ethylene) with a Faradaic yield of 80 %. During electrolysis the isolated sites transiently convert into metallic copper nanoparticles, as shown by operando XAS analysis, which are likely to be the catalytically active species. Remarkably, this process is reversible and the initial material is recovered intact after electrolysis.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Trisubstituted Vinylboronates from Ketone Enolates Triggered by 1,3‐Metalate Rearrangement of Lithium Enolates
Authors: Hu Yue , Sun Wei , Zhang Tao , Xu Nuo , Xu Jianeng , Lan Yu , Liu Chao
Published: August 2019

An unprecedented stereoselective synthesis of trisubstituted vinylboronates is reported to proceed by direct borylation of lithium ketone enolates under transition‐metal‐free conditions. The stereospecific C−O borylation of lithium enolates was triggered by a carbonyl‐induced 1,3‐metalate rearrangement via a C‐bound boron enolate. DFT calculations and control experiments revealed that the stereoselectivity is controlled by sterics. A variety of stereospecific trisubstituted vinylboronates, together with several tetrasubstituted vinylboronates, were conveniently synthesized with the newly developed methodology. Based on the transformation of stereospecific vinylboronate, a single isomer of Dienestrol was efficiently obtained.
Xenon Recovery by DD3R Zeolite Membranes: Application in Anaesthetics
Authors: Wang Xuerui , Zhang Yuting , Wang Xiaoyu , Andres‐Garcia Eduardo , Du Peng , Giordano Lorena , Wang Lin , Hong Zhou , Gu Xuehong , Murad Sohail , Kapteijn Freek
Published: August 2019

Xe is only produced by cryogenic distillation of air, and its availability is limited by the extremely low abundance. Therefore, Xe recovery after usage is the only way to guarantee sufficient supply and broad application. Herein we demonstrate DD3R zeolite as a benchmark membrane material for CO2/Xe separation. The CO2 permeance after an optimized membrane synthesis is one order magnitude higher than for conventional membranes and is less susceptible to water vapour. The overall membrane performance is dominated by diffusivity selectivity of CO2 over Xe in DD3R zeolite membranes, whereby rigidity of the zeolite structure plays a key role. For relevant anaesthetic composition (<5 % CO2) and condition (humid), CO2 permeance and CO2/Xe selectivity stabilized at 2.0×10−8 mol m−2 s−1 Pa−1 and 67, respectively, during long‐term operation (>320 h). This endows DD3R zeolite membranes great potential for on‐stream CO2 removal from the Xe‐based closed‐circuit anesthesia system. The large cost reduction of up to 4 orders of magnitude by membrane Xe‐recycling (>99+%) allows the use of the precious Xe as anaesthetics gas a viable general option in surgery.
Half‐sandwich Ruthenium (II) complexes with triphenylamine modified dipyridine skeleton and application in biology/luminescence imaging
Authors: Ge Xingxing , Liu Xicheng , Tian Zhenzhen , Chen Shujiao , Liu Xinyu , Guo Lihua , Gong Peiwei , Ling Baoping , Yuan Xiang‐Ai , Liu Zhe
Published: August 2019

Four half‐sandwich rutheniumII (RuII) complexes with triphenylamine‐modifed dipyridine frameworks were synthesized and characterized. The cytotoxicity of target complexes toward A549 (lung cancer cells), HeLa (cervical cancer cells) and HepG2 (hepatoma cells) were obtained by the MTT assay, which were superior to cisplatin with the IC50 values changed from 2.4 ± 0.1 μM to 9.2 ± 2.7 μM. Meanwhile, complexes possess the ability of antimetastasis to cancer cells. RuII complexes could be transported by serum albumin, catalyze the conversion of NADH (the reduced state of nicotinamide‐adenine dinucleotide) to NAD+ and induce the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, which confirmed the antineoplastic mechanism of oxidation. RuII complexes could enter A549 cells followed by a non‐energy dependent cellular uptake mechanism, target lysosomes with the Pearson's colocalization coefficient of 0.75, lead to lysosomal damage, disturb the cell cycle (S phase), and eventually induce apoptosis. The results demonstrate that these RuII complexes are potential anticancer agents with dual functions, including metastasis inhibition and lysosomal damage.
Nickel‐catalyzed aminocarbonylation of aryl halides with carbamoylsilanes: efficient synthesis of secondary (primary) aromatic amides
Authors: Wen Xueping , Chen Wenwen , Chen Jianxin
Published: August 2019

A nickel‐catalyzed aminocarbonylation of aryl halides using carbamoylsilane as an amide source leading to corresponding secondary or primary aromatic amides has been developed, in which the methoxymethyl and benzyl were used as amino protecting group. The protocol tolerates a broad range of aryl halides bearing different functional groups to afford good yields of aryl amides under mild reaction conditions. The types and the relative positions of substituents on the aryl ring make a notable impact on the coupling efficiency. The plausible mechanism of nickel‐catalyzed aminocarbonylation has been suggested.
Synthesis of titanium nanoparticles using Allium eriophyllum Boiss aqueous extract by green synthesis method and evaluation of their remedial properties
Authors: Seydi Niloofar , Saneei Sania , Jalalvand Ali R. , Zangeneh Mohammad Mahdi , Zangeneh Akram , Tahvilian Reza , Pirabbasi Elham
Published: August 2019

The application of nanotechnologies to medicine, or nanomedicine, which has already demonstrated its tremendous impact on the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, is rapidly becoming a major driving force behind ongoing developments in the antimicrobial and wound healing fields. This study confirms the potential of Allium eriophyllum Boiss aqueous extract for the green synthesis of titanium nanoparticles (TiNPs). Also, we reveal the antioxidant, cytotoxicity, cutaneous wound healing, antifungal and antibacterial properties of TiNPs. These nanoparticles were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) and UV–visible spectroscopies, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM). FT‐IR findings suggested molecular interactions of compounds in the plant were the sources of reducing power, reducing titanium ions to TiNPs. In XRD analysis, 22.8 nm was measured for the crystal size of the nanoparticles. SEM and TEM images indicated a uniform spherical morphology and average diameters of 22 nm. 2,2‐Diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl experiments were conducted to assess the antioxidant activities, which indicated similar antioxidant potentials for TiNPs and butylated hydroxytoluene. In the antimicrobial part of this study, agar diffusion experiments were done to determine the antibacterial and antifungal characteristics. TiNPs had antifungal activities against Candida guilliermondii, C. krusei, C. albicans and C. glabrata and antibacterial potentials against Gram‐negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli O157:H7) and Gram‐positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Bacillus subtilis). Also, these nanoparticles did not have any cytotoxicity against human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In in vivo experiments, TiNP ointment significantly decreased (p ≤ 0.01) wound area, total cells, macrophages, neutrophils and lymphocytes and notably increased (p ≤ 0.01) wound contracture, vessels, hydroxyproline, hexosamine, hexuronic acid, fibrocytes and fibrocyte/fibroblast ratio in rats. The results of FT‐IR, UV, XRD, TEM and SEM analyses confirm that aqueous extract of A. eriophyllum leaves can be used to yield TiNPs with notable antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and cutaneous wound healing potentials without any cytotoxicity. Further clinical trials are necessary for confirmation of these remedial properties of TiNPs in humans.
Effect of thiocyanate‐based ionic liquids on the dehydrogenation of amine boranes: Experimental and molecular modeling studies
Authors: Kundu Debashis , Chakma Sankar , Pugazhenthi Gopal , Banerjee Tamal
Published: August 2019

The present investigation reports the effect of thiocyanate‐based ionic liquid (IL) on the thermal dehydrogenation of amine boranes. Fifteen ILs based on thiocyanate anion comprising cations from imidazolium, pyrrolidinium, and ammonium family were screened by a priori prediction of infinite dilution activity coefficient using the quantum chemical‐based conductor‐like screening model segment activity coefficient method. The IL with the highest predicted solubility of amine boranes converged to 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium thiocyanate ([EMIM][SCN]) that was then used for the dehydrogenation reaction. In the IL medium, ammonia borane (AB) and ethylene diamine bisborane (EDAB) were found to produce ~1.64 equivalent of hydrogen with an induction period of 60 min and ~2.37 equivalent of hydrogen having an induction period of 30 min, respectively. It was observed that the mixture of AB and EDAB in [EMIM][SCN] produced prolonged induction period of 210 min. After 240 min, the mixed amine boranes only produce 0.43 equivalent of H2. To elucidate this slow dynamics, Density Functional Theory (DFT) optimized geometries followed by the natural bond orbital analysis revealed the formation of hydrogen bond between IL and amine borane moiety. Further, the presence of the stronger dihydrogen bond among the protic and hydridic hydrogens was also observed in AB + EDAB/[EMIM][SCN] system, resulting in longer induction period for dehydrogenation.
Thermomechanical recycling of polyamide 6 from fishing nets waste
Authors: Mondragon Gurutz , Kortaberria Galder , Mendiburu Eider , González Nekane , Arbelaiz Aitor , Peña‐Rodriguez Cristina
Published: August 2019

The objective of this work is to analyze the possibility of thermomechanical recycling of polyamide 6 (PA6) from fishing nets waste. The effect of thermomechanical processing on PA yarns obtained from fishing nets waste was investigated by means of physicochemical, rheological, and thermal characterization. Infrared analysis indicated that the chemical composition of samples before and after thermomechanical recycling process was maintained, also confirmed by the thermal transitions detected by calorimetry and the presence of main peaks related to γ and α crystal phases of polyamides at X‐ray diffraction spectra. As rheological and mechanical behavior showed by all recycled samples after processing is similar to those for virgin one, PA obtained from fishing nets waste seems to be valid for recycling, as they can be processed for different potential industrial applications without any remarkable loss of main properties. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48442.
How the Membrane Attack Complex Damages the Bacterial Cell Envelope and Kills Gram‐Negative Bacteria
Authors: Doorduijn Dennis J. , Rooijakkers Suzan H. M. , Heesterbeek Dani A. C.
Published: August 2019

The human immune system can directly lyse invading micro‐organisms and aberrant host cells by generating pores in the cell envelope, called membrane attack complexes (MACs). Recent studies using single‐particle cryoelectron microscopy have revealed that the MAC is an asymmetric, flexible pore and have provided a structural basis on how the MAC ruptures single lipid membranes. Despite these insights, it remains unclear how the MAC ruptures the composite cell envelope of Gram‐negative bacteria. Recent functional studies on Gram‐negative bacteria elucidate that local assembly of MAC pores by surface‐bound C5 convertase enzymes is essential to stably insert these pores into the bacterial outer membrane (OM). These convertase‐generated MAC pores can subsequently efficiently damage the bacterial inner membrane (IM), which is essential for bacterial killing. This review summarizes these recent insights of MAC assembly and discusses how MAC pores kill Gram‐negative bacteria. Furthermore, this review elaborates on how MAC‐dependent OM damage could lead to IM destabilization, which is currently not well understood. A better understanding on how MAC pores kill bacteria could facilitate the future development of novel strategies to treat infections with Gram‐negative bacteria.
Multicentre observational cohort study of implementation and outcomes of laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy
Authors: Lof S , Moekotte A L , Al-Sarireh B , Ammori B , Aroori S , Durkin D , Fusai G K , French J J , Gomez D , Marangoni G , Marudanayagam R , Soonawalla Z , Sutcliffe R , White S A , Abu Hilal M , Spolentini G , Heijde N , Kanwar A , Schlegel A , Mowbray N G , Rahman S , Kabir I , Deakin M , Bowling K , Khaled Y
Published: August 2019

Background

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) is increasingly being performed as an alternative to open surgery. Whether the implementation and corresponding learning curve of LDP have an impact on patient outcome is unknown. The aim was to investigate the temporal trends in practice across UK centres.

Methods

This was a retrospective multicentre observational cohort study of LDP in 11 tertiary referral centres in the UK between 2006 and 2016. The learning curve was analysed by pooling data for the first 15 consecutive patients who had LDP and examining trends in surgical outcomes in subsequent patients.

Results

In total, 570 patients underwent LDP, whereas 888 underwent open resection. For LDP the median duration of operation was 240 min, with 200 ml blood loss. The conversion rate was 12·1 per cent. Neuroendocrine tumours (26·7 per cent) and mucinous cystic neoplasms (19·7 per cent) were commonest indications. The proportion of LDPs increased from 24·4 per cent in 2006–2009 (P1) to 46·0 per cent in 2014–2016 (P3) (P < 0·001). LDP was increasingly performed for patients aged 70 years or more (16 per cent in P1 versus 34·4 per cent in P3; P = 0·002), pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (6 versus 19·1 per cent; P = 0·005) and advanced malignant tumours (27 versus 52 per cent; P = 0·016). With increasing experience, there was a trend for a decrease in blood transfusion rate (14·1 per cent for procedures 1–15 to 3·5 per cent for procedures 46–75; P = 0·008), ICU admissions (32·7 to 19·2 per cent; P = 0·021) and median duration of hospital stay (7 (i.q.r. 5–9) to 6 (4–7) days; P = 0·002). After 30 procedures, a decrease was noted in rates of both overall morbidity (57·7 versus 42·2 per cent for procedures 16–30 versus 46–75 respectively; P = 0·009) and severe morbidity (18·8 versus 9·7 per cent; P = 0·031).

Conclusion

LDP has increased as a treatment option for lesions of the distal pancreas as indications for the procedure have expanded. Perioperative outcomes improved with the number of procedures performed.
Meta-analysis of recurrence pattern after resection for pancreatic cancer
Authors: Tanaka M , Mihaljevic A L , Probst P , Heckler M , Klaiber U , Heger U , Büchler M W , Hackert T
Published: August 2019

Background

Initial recurrence mapping of resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) could help in stratifying patient subpopulations for optimal postoperative follow-up. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the initial recurrence patterns of PDAC and to correlate them with clinicopathological factors.

Methods

MEDLINE and Web of Science databases were searched systematically for studies reporting first recurrence patterns after PDAC resection. Data were extracted from the studies selected for inclusion. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95 per cent confidence intervals were calculated to determine the clinicopathological factors related to the recurrence sites. The weighted average of median overall survival was calculated.

Results

Eighty-nine studies with 17 313 patients undergoing PDAC resection were included. The weighted median rates of initial recurrence were 20·8 per cent for locoregional sites, 26·5 per cent for liver, 11·4 per cent for lung and 13·5 per cent for peritoneal dissemination. The weighted median overall survival times were 19·8 months for locoregional recurrence, 15·0 months for liver recurrence, 30·4 months for lung recurrence and 14·1 months for peritoneal dissemination. Meta-analysis revealed that R1 (direct) resection (OR 2·21, 95 per cent c.i. 1·12 to 4·35), perineural invasion (OR 5·19, 2·79 to 9·64) and positive peritoneal lavage cytology (OR 5·29, 3·03 to 9·25) were significantly associated with peritoneal dissemination as initial recurrence site. Low grade of tumour differentiation was significantly associated with liver recurrence (OR 4·15, 1·71 to 10·07).

Conclusion

Risk factors for recurrence patterns after surgery could be considered for specific surveillance and treatments for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Nanoparticles in the clinic: An update
Authors: Anselmo Aaron C. , Mitragotri Samir
Published: August 2019

Nanoparticle drug delivery systems have been used in the clinic since the early 1990's. Since that time, the field of nanomedicine has evolved alongside growing technological needs to improve the delivery of various therapeutics. Over these past decades, newer generations of nanoparticles have emerged that are capable of performing additional delivery functions that can enable treatment via new therapeutic modalities. In the current clinical landscape, many of these new generation nanoparticles have reached clinical trials and have been approved for various indications. In the first issue of Bioengineering & Translational Medicine in 2016, we reviewed the history, current clinical landscape, and clinical challenges of nanoparticle delivery systems. Here, we provide a 3 year update on the current clinical landscape of nanoparticle drug delivery systems and highlight newly approved nanomedicines, provide a status update on previous clinical trials, and highlight new technologies that have recently entered the clinic.