bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel, rosin‐based, hydrophobically modified cationic polyacrylamide for kaolin suspension flocculation
Authors: Zhang Haibo , Jiang Jianxin , Shang Shibin , Song Zhanqian , Song Jie
Published: May 2018

A novel, hydrophobically modified cationic polyacrylamide (HMPAM) was synthesized via the copolymerization of acrylamide, diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DMDAAC), and diallylmethyl dehydroabietic acid propyl ester ammonium bromide. Optimum conditions for preparing HMPAM were such that the amount of initiator was 0.075 wt % of the total monomer mass, the monomer concentration was 20 wt %, and the amount of DMDAAC was 18 mol % of the total monomer molar mass. HMPAM was characterized with an UV–visible spectrometer, 1H‐NMR, Ubbelohde viscometer, rotational viscometer, and rotational rheometer. HMPAM solutions exhibited strong hydrophobic associations, and the critical association concentration of the HMPAM aqueous solution was about 0.7 wt %; the HMPAM solutions also showed salt thickening and shear resistance. The surface morphologies of the freeze‐dried HMPAM samples (1 wt %) were also observed via scanning electron microscopy. Compared with unmodified cationic polyacrylamide, Synthesis of HMPAM‐0.5 exhibited a stronger flocculation capacity, and the optimal transmittance of the supernatants was above 95%. HMPAM‐0.5 showed significant flocculation performances for 3–4 and 3–5 wt % kaolin suspensions at 40 and 50 mg/L, respectively. Moreover, the flocculation performance was enhanced with the addition of NaCl and CaCl2. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46637.
Colyers Island: Polynesia's southernmost adze manufacturing complex
Authors: JENNINGS CHRISTOPHER , WEISLER MARSHALL , WALTER RICHARD
Published: May 2018

Bluff Harbour, in southern New Zealand (Murihiku), is the southernmost location of Polynesian adze production. Here, an industry developed during the colonisation phase based on the exploitation of numerous sources of argillite – a fine‐grained, homogeneous rock with conchoidal fracture properties. Argillite from the Bluff and Riverton sources was a major attractor during the earliest period of human occupation and Bluff argillite adzes were distributed widely throughout the lower South Island. The most extensive sources of Bluff argillite are on Colyers Island, where there is evidence of quarrying and preform production along much of the coast. The sites on Colyers Island were surveyed as the first part of an archaeological investigation of quarrying and adze production in Bluff Harbour. The quarried boulders, outcrops and artefact distributions at these sites indicated that the raw material was exploited by highly organised and skilled craft specialists. The initial stages of adze manufacture were undertaken at the quarry, and then preforms were taken to multipurpose camp sites around the harbour for finishing. Adze blanks on Colyers Island were made from large flakes, tabular blocks and cobbles, using imported hammer stones. This paper documents the significance of Colyers Island as an important adze production complex in New Zealand.
An Economic Evaluation of Stopping Versus Continuing Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitor Treatment in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients With Disease Remission or Low Disease Activity
Authors: Tran‐Duy An , Ghiti Moghadam Marjan , Oude Voshaar Martijn A. H. , Vonkeman Harald E. , Boonen Annelies , Clarke Philip , McColl Geoff , ten Klooster Peter M. , Zijlstra T. R. , Lems Willem F. , Riyazi N. , Griep E. N. , Hazes J. M. W. , Landewé Robert , Bernelot Moens Hein J. , van Riel Piet L. C. M. , van de Laar Mart A. F. J. , Jansen T. L. ,   the Dutch National POET Collaboration
Published: May 2018

Objective

To evaluate, from a societal perspective, the incremental cost‐effectiveness of withdrawing tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) treatment compared to continuation of these drugs within a 1‐year, randomized trial among rheumatoid arthritis patients with longstanding, stable disease activity or remission.

Methods

Data were collected from a pragmatic, open‐label trial. Cost‐utility analysis was performed using the nonparametric bootstrapping method, and a cost‐effectiveness acceptability curve was constructed using the net‐monetary benefit framework, where a willingness‐to‐accept threshold (WTA) was defined as the minimal cost saved that a patient accepted for each quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) lost.

Results

A total of 531 patients were randomized to the stop group and 286 patients to the continuation group. Withdrawal ofTNFi treatment resulted in a >60% reduction of the total drug cost, but led to an increase of ∼30% in other health care expenditures. Compared to continuation, stoppingTNFi resulted in a mean yearly cost saving of €7,133 (95% confidence interval [95%CI] €6,071, €8,234]) and was associated with a mean loss ofQALYs of 0.02 (95%CI0.002, 0.040). Mean saved cost perQALYlost and per extra flare incurred in the stop group compared to the continuation group was €368,269 (95%CI€155,132, €1,675,909) and €17,670 (95%CI€13,650, €22,721), respectively. At aWTAof €98,438 perQALYlost, the probability that stoppingTNFi treatment is cost‐effective was 100%.

Conclusion

Although an officialWTAis not defined, the mean saved cost of €368,269 perQALYlost seems acceptable in The Netherlands, given existing data on willingness to pay.
An HPLC‐UV method for the simultaneous quantification of curcumin and its metabolites in plasma and lung tissue: Potential for preclinical applications
Authors: Mahale Jagdish , Howells Lynne M. , Singh Rajinder , Britton Robert G. , Cai Hong , Brown Karen
Published: May 2018

Curcumin, derived from turmeric, has been extensively investigated for its broad spectrum of biological activities. Previously reported HPLC‐UV methods have focussed on analysis of the parent compound. Here, a sensitive HPLC‐UV method was developed and partially validated, then used for the simultaneous determination of curcumin and its glucuronide and sulfate metabolites in plasma and lung tissue from mice. The assay was applied to an in vivo pharmacokinetic study comparing formulated curcumin (Meriva™) with standard curcumin. Plasma levels of glucuronide and sulfate metabolites were 5‐ and 2‐fold higher after Meriva™ administration compared with standard curcumin. In lung tissue, free curcumin was 4‐fold higher following Meriva™ administration vs standard curcumin. This assay represents a rapid, cheap method for simultaneous detection of curcumin and its major metabolites that has applicability in pre‐clinical settings.
Local control and possibility of tailored salvage after hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy of the cavity after brain metastases resection
Authors: Bilger Angelika , Bretzinger Eva , Fennell Jamina , Nieder Carsten , Lorenz Hannah , Oehlke Oliver , Grosu Anca‐Ligia , Specht Hanno M. , Combs Stephanie E.
Published: May 2018

In patients undergoing surgical resection of brain metastases, the risk of local recurrence remains high. Adjuvant whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) can reduce the risk of local relapse but fails to improve overall survival. At two tertiary care centers in Germany, a retrospective study was performed to evaluate the role of hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (HFSRT) in patients with brain metastases after surgical resection. In particular, need for salvage treatment, for example, WBRT, surgery, or stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), was evaluated. Both intracranial local (LF) and locoregional (LRF) failures were analyzed. A total of 181 patients were treated with HFSRT of the surgical cavity. In addition to the assessment of local control and distant intracranial control, we analyzed treatment modalities for tumor recurrence including surgical strategies and reirradiation. Imaging follow‐up for the evaluation of LF and LRF was available in 159 of 181 (88%) patients. A total of 100 of 159 (63%) patients showed intracranial progression after HFSRT. A total of 81 of 100 (81%) patients received salvage therapy. Fourteen of 81 patients underwent repeat surgery, and 78 of 81 patients received radiotherapy as a salvage treatment (53% WBRT). Patients with single or few metastases distant from the initial site or with WBRT in the past were retreated by HFSRT (14%) or SRS, 33%. Some patients developed up to four metachronous recurrences, which could be salvaged successfully. Eight (4%) patients experienced radionecrosis. No other severe side effects (CTCAE≥3) were observed. Postoperative HFSRT to the resection cavity resulted in a crude rate for local control of 80.5%. Salvage therapy for intracranial progression was commonly needed, typically at distant sites. Salvage therapy was performed with WBRT, SRS, and surgery or repeated HFSRT of the resection cavity depending on the tumor spread and underlying histology. Prospective studies are warranted to clarify whether or not the sequence of these therapies is important in terms of quality of life, risk of radiation necrosis, and likelihood of neurological cause of death.
Electronic cardiac arrest triage score best predicts mortality after intervention in patients with massive and submassive pulmonary embolism
Authors: Hirai Taishi , Tate Steven , Dryer Kathryn , Jones Deshon , Rosenberg Jonathan , Nathan Sandeep , Shah Atman P. , Carey Kyle , Churpek Matthew , Edelson Dana , Friant Janet , Paul Jonathan , Blair John E. A.
Published: May 2018

Objective

To determine if the cardiac arrest triage (CART) Score would better predict poor outcomes after pharmacomechanical therapy (PMT) for massive and submassive pulmonary embolism (PE) than traditional risk scores

Background

PMT for massive and submassive PE allows for clot lysis with minimal doses of fibrinolytics. Although PMT results in improved right ventricular function, and reduced pulmonary pressures and thrombus burden, predictors of poor outcome are not well‐studied.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent PMT for massive or submassive PE at a single institution from 2010 to 2016. The CART score and electronic CART (eCART) score, derived previously as early warning scores for hospitalized patients, were compared to pulmonary embolism severity index (PESI) comparing the area under the receiver‐operator characteristic curve (AUC) for predicting 30‐day mortality.

Results

We studied 61 patients (56 ±17 years, 44.0% male, 29.5% massive PE, mean PESI 114.6 ± 42.7, mean CART 13.5 ± 1.39, mean eCART 108.5 ± 28.6). Thirty‐day mortality was 24.6%. Treatments included rheolytic thrombectomy (32.7%), catheter‐directed thrombolysis (50.8%), ultrasound‐assisted thrombolysis (32.7%), and mechanical thrombectomy (4.9%). There were no differences in outcome based on technique. The eCART and CART scores had higher AUCs compared to PESI in predicting 30‐day mortality (0.84 vs 0.72 vs 0.69, P = .010). We found troponin I and pro‐BNP were higher in higher eCART tertiles, however AUCs were 0.51 and 0.63, respectively for 30‐day mortality when used as stand‐alone predictors.

Conclusion

Compared to PESI score, CART and eCART scores better predict mortality in massive or submassive PE patients undergoing PMT.
Infective endocarditis following transcatheter edge‐to‐edge mitral valve repair: A systematic review
Authors: Asmarats Lluis , Rodriguez‐Gabella Tania , Chamandi Chekrallah , Bernier Mathieu , Beaudoin Jonathan , O'Connor Kim , Dumont Eric , Dagenais François , Paradis Jean‐Michel , Rodés‐Cabau Josep
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To assess the clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of patients diagnosed with infective endocarditis (IE) after edge‐to‐edge mitral valve repair with the MitraClip device.

Background

Transcatheter edge‐to‐edge mitral valve repair has emerged as an alternative to surgery in high‐risk patients. However, few data exist on IE following transcatheter mitral procedures.

Methods

Four electronic databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and Cochrane Library) were searched for original published studies on IE after edge‐to‐edge transcatheter mitral valve repair from 2003 to 2017.

Results

A total of 10 publications describing 12 patients with definitive IE (median age 76 years, 55% men) were found. The mean logistic EuroSCORE/EuroSCORE II were 41% and 45%, respectively. The IE episode occurred early (within 12 months post‐procedure) in nine patients (75%; within the first month in five patients). Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequent (60%) causal microorganism, and severe mitral regurgitation was present in all cases but one. Surgical mitral valve replacement (SMVR) was performed in most (67%) patients, and the mortality associated with the IE episode was high (42%).

Conclusions

IE following transcatheter edge‐to‐edge mitral valve repair is a rare but life‐threatening complication, usually necessitating SMVR despite the high‐risk profile of the patients. These results highlight the importance of adequate preventive measures and a prompt diagnosis and treatment of this serious complication.
Ventricular tachycardia revealing drug abuse induced myocarditis: two case reports
Authors: Ouali Sana , Guermazi Omar , Ben Halima Manel , Boudiche Selim , Khedher Nadim , Adeljalil Farhati , Meghaeith Fathia , Larbi Nourreddine , Mourali Mohamed Samid
Published: May 2018

Key Clinical Message

Illicit drugs are an uncommon etiology of acute myocarditis but should be evocated in young population. This association may result in further complications, mainly ventricular arrhythmia and therefore increases sudden cardiac deaths among young abusers. Withholding drug intoxication to prevent recurrent events is a major key of management.
Multivariate patent analysis—Using chemometrics to analyze collections of chemical and pharmaceutical patents
Authors: Sjögren Rickard , Stridh Kjell , Skotare Tomas , Trygg Johan
Published: May 2018

Patents are an important source of technological knowledge, but the amount of existing patents is vast and quickly growing. This makes development of tools and methodologies for quickly revealing patterns in patent collections important. In this paper, we describe how structured chemometric principles of multivariate data analysis can be applied in the context of text analysis in a novel combination with common machine learning preprocessing methodologies. We demonstrate our methodology in 2 case studies. Using principal component analysis (PCA) on a collection of 12338 patent abstracts from 25 companies in big pharma revealed sub‐fields which the companies are active in. Using PCA on a smaller collection of patents retrieved by searching for a specific term proved useful to quickly understand how patent classifications relate to the search term. By using orthogonal projections to latent structures (O‐PLS) on patent classification schemes, we were able to separate patents on a more detailed level than using PCA. Lastly, we performed multi‐block modeling using OnPLS on bag‐of‐words representations of abstracts, claims, and detailed descriptions, respectively, showing that semantic variation relating to patent classification is consistent across multiple text blocks, represented as globally joint variation. We conclude that using machine learning to transform unstructured data into structured data provide a good preprocessing tool for subsequent chemometric multivariate data analysis and provides an easily interpretable and novel workflow to understand large collections of patents. We demonstrate this on collections of chemical and pharmaceutical patents.
Model and estimators for partial least squares regression
Authors: Helland Inge Svein , Sæbø Solve , Almøy Trygve , Rimal Raju
Published: May 2018

Partial least squares (PLS) regression has been a very popular method for prediction. The method can in a natural way be connected to a statistical model, which now has been extended and further developed in terms of an envelope model. Concentrating on the univariate case, several estimators of the regression vector in this model are defined, including the ordinary PLS estimator, the maximum likelihood envelope estimator, and a recently proposed Bayes PLS estimator. These are compared with respect to prediction error by systematic simulations. The simulations indicate that Bayes PLS performs well compared with the other methods.
Pillararene‐Based Two‐Component Thixotropic Supramolecular Organogels: Complementarity and Multivalency as Prominent Motifs
Authors: Zafrani Yossi , Kaizerman Dana , Hadar Maya , Bigan Nitzan , Granot Eran , Ghosh Moumita , Adler‐Abramovich Lihi , Patolsky Fernando , Cohen Yoram
Published: May 2018

Rationally designed two‐component supramolecular organogels based on multiple chemical interactions between percarboxylato‐ and peramino‐pillararenes are described. Mixing low concentration solutions (<1 % w/v) of decacarboxylato‐pillar[5]arene (1) with decaamino‐pillar[5]arenes (2 b–d) affords, rapidly and without heating, organogels displaying an exceptional combination of properties. These supramolecular organogels, the characteristics of which are tunable, were found to be thixotropic and thermally stable, with Tgel values in some cases exceeding the boiling point of the embedded solvent. It is demonstrated that both structural complementarity and multivalency are important determinants in the gelation process of these attractive soft materials.
Co@C Nanoparticle Embedded Hierarchically Porous N‐Doped Hollow Carbon for Efficient Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Feng Taotao , Qin Hancheng , Zhang Meining
Published: May 2018

The rational construction of highly active and stable non‐noble metal electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is an ongoing challenge for practical applications of catalysts. Here, we report a novel nanostructured hollow N‐doped carbon hybrid through pyrolysis of silica@CoZn‐coordinated zeolitic imidazolate frameworks. The carbon layer encased cobalt nanoparticles were embedded in the hierarchically porous carbon catalyst (Co@C‐HN‐hC). Profiting from the synergistic effect between highly active Co@C NPs and HN‐hC, the Co@C‐HN‐hC catalyst exhibited remarkable catalytic performances as compared to porous N‐doped hollow carbon (N‐hC) and N‐doped carbon encased Co NPs (Co@N‐C). The electrochemical measurements show that the performances of the Co@C‐HN‐hC catalyst is close to that of the Pt/C catalysts, along with an excellent stability and durability in the ORR process. This study provides a guideline for controllable design of carbon‐based ORR catalysts for substituting noble metal catalysts.
Removal of Phenol From Aqueous Solution Using the Green Macroalga Chara sp
Authors: Mahdizadeh Fatemeh , Aber Soheil , Dehghan Gholamreza
Published: May 2018

Biological treatment of phenol solution using the green macroalga Chara sp. is investigated in this study. The findings from batch experiments reveal the ability of Chara to remove phenol from aqueous solution. A central composite design (CCD) is employed for the optimization of the phenol removal process. The effects of the pH of phenol solution, initial concentration of phenol, algal biomass, and temperature on phenol removal from aqueous solution are tested. The correlation coefficient of R2 = 93% and the adjusted correlation coefficient of R2(adj) = 0.87 shows the conformity between the model outcomes and experimental results. The predicted response (phenol removal after 4 h) under optimal conditions is 72.30%, which is close to the experimental result (71.45%). The maximal removal of phenol is achieved at the optimal conditions of pH of 5, initial phenol concentration of 13.5 mg L−1, algal mass of 1.2 g, and temperature of 30 °C. The results show that Chara alga has the potential for phenol removal from aqueous solution. The results suggest a biodegradation mechanism, but this has not yet been confirmed.
Tuning Spin‐Spin Interactions in Radical Dendrimers
Authors: Lloveras Vega , Liko Flonja , Pinto Luiz F. , Muñoz‐Gómez José L. , Veciana Jaume , Vidal‐Gancedo José
Published: May 2018

Two generations of polyphosphorhydrazone (PPH) dendrimers were synthesized and fully functionalized with TEMPO radicals via acrylamido or imino group linkers to evaluate the impact of the linker substitution on the radical‐radical interactions. A drastic change in the way that the radicals interacted among them was observed by EPR and CV studies: while radicals in Gn‐imino‐TEMPO dendrimers presented a strong spin‐spin interaction, in the Gn‐acrylamido‐TEMPO ones they acted mainly as independent radicals. This shows that these interactions could be tuned by the solely substitution of the radical linker, opening the perspective of controlling and modulating the extension of these interactions depending on each application. The chemical properties of the linker strongly influence the spin‐spin exchange between pendant radicals.
Spruce shows greater sensitivity to recent warming than Douglas‐fir in central British Columbia
Authors: Wiley Erin , Rogers Bruce J. , Griesbauer Hardy P. , Landhäusser Simon M.
Published: May 2018

The effects of climate change on tree growth in ecosystems limited by cold temperature remain unclear. In some cases, growth may increase, but because warmer temperatures can increase water stress, growth may also decline. As climate changes in the sub‐boreal spruce (SBS) zone in central British Columbia, hybrid white spruce (Picea engelmannii × glauca)—a dominant but drought‐intolerant species of this region—is predicted to decline over much of its range, while species such as Douglas‐fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca) are likely to replace spruce. To see whether these shifts are already evident, we examined recent trends in basal area increment (BAI) of these two species over the past 50 yr (1961–2010) and explored relationships with climate variables in the SBS zone across a range of sites varying in water availability due to differences in climate and soil moisture regimes. In addition, we analyzed wood δ13C during this period and root carbohydrate reserve (NSC) concentrations at the end of this period as indicators of water and carbon stress, respectively, to help interpret growth trends and climate relationships among sites. Spruce BAI was negatively associated with spring and/or summer temperature on all sites, but growth was never negatively correlated with temperature in Douglas‐fir. For both species, lower BAI on the driest site was accompanied by higher δ13C and lower root NSC reserve concentrations, particularly starch, consistent with drought stress reducing water and carbon availability for growth. However, there was no indication that the negative growth response to temperature was more pronounced on drier sites, as the only growth decline in spruce occurred on a mesic site with lower δ13C. We conclude that rising temperatures are likely to negatively impact the growth of spruce more than Douglas‐fir in the SBS zone, supporting predictions that spruce will decline and be replaced by other species like Douglas‐fir. And while rising temperatures may have already reduced growth on some sites, these declines are not clearly related to increasing drought stress but may relate to effects on the timing of snowmelt.
Coupling Phenomena in Magnetocaloric Materials
Authors: Waske Anja , Dutta Biswanath , Teichert Niclas , Weise Bruno , Shayanfar Navid , Becker Andreas , Hütten Andreas , Hickel Tilmann
Published: May 2018

Strong coupling effects in magnetocaloric materials are the key factor to achieve a large magnetic entropy change. Combining insights from experiments and ab initio calculations, we review relevant coupling phenomena, including atomic coupling, stress coupling, and magnetostatic coupling. For the investigations on atomic coupling, we have used Heusler compounds as a flexible model system. Stress coupling occurs in first‐order magnetocaloric materials, which exhibit a structural transformation or volume change together with the magnetic transition. Magnetostatic coupling has been experimentally demonstrated in magnetocaloric particles and fragment ensembles. Based on the achieved insights, we have demonstrated that the materials properties can be tailored to achieve optimized magnetocaloric performance for cooling applications.
The IDEMCare Study—Improving Dementia Care in Black African and Caribbean Groups: A feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Roche Moïse , Mukadam Naaheed , Adelman Simon , Livingston Gill
Published: May 2018

Objective

We evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of a tailored evidence‐based intervention, consisting of a leaflet and a letter, to encourage timely help‐seeking for dementia in Black elders.

Methods

Participating GP surgeries were randomised to send either the intervention or a control leaflet about ageing well to Black patients aged ≥50 years old without known dementia. We interviewed patients 2 weeks later about the intervention's acceptability using closed and open‐ended questions, and they completed a Theory‐of‐Planned‐behaviour questionnaire about what they would do if they developed memory problems, which they also completed 4 months later.

Results

Five of 26 surgeries approached agreed to invite patients. Sixty‐five patients responded, of whom 61 (93.8%) agreed to participate. At 2 weeks, we consented and interviewed 47/61 (77%), of whom 24 received the intervention, and at 4 months we followed up 43/47 (91.5%). At 2 weeks, 44/47 (93.6%) found either intervention acceptable to receive by post, including 23/24 of the intervention. Nineteen of 24 (79.2%) reported reading the intervention leaflet compared with 13/23 (56.5%) controls. The intervention leaflet made 16/24 (66.7%) think about visiting their doctor for memory problems and led 4 to help‐seeking behaviour. We calculated that 191 patients and 24 surgeries are required for an efficacy trial.

Conclusions

Given the intervention is acceptable, inexpensive, and unlikely to cause harm, we judge it appropriate to disseminate it without a full‐scale trial. Recruitment attainment, retention, and projected sample size calculation indicated feasibility for a larger trial.
Pacemaker programming in patients with first‐degree AV‐block: Programming pattern and possible consequences
Authors: Holmqvist F. , Rathakrishnan B. , Jackson L.R. , Campbell K. , Daubert J.P.
Published: May 2018

Background

The optimal way of pacing in patients with an indication for pacing and concomitant first‐degree atrioventricular (AV)–block is not known, and consequently, firm guidelines on this topic are lacking. This study explored the current pacemaker programming pattern in patients with first‐degree AV‐block who have a dual chamber pacemaker without cardiac resynchronization.

Methods

The study was a retrospective chart review conducted at Duke University Hospital. Patients receiving a pacemaker due to sinus node dysfunction with coexistent first‐degree AV‐block were studied. Baseline demographics and characteristics, as well as pacemaker programming parameters and follow‐up data, were collected through chart review. Preimplantation and postimplantation electrocardiograms were analyzed.

Results

A total of 74 patients were included (mean age, 75 ± 11 y; 53% men). The mean ± SD preimplant PR interval and QRS duration was 243 ± 46 and 110 ± 30 milliseconds, respectively. A history of atrial fibrillation was present in 49% of the patients, and 77% had a normal left ventricular ejection fraction. The majority of patients (65%) had their pacemakers programmed to atrial pacing (AAI/DDD +/−R), whereas 32% and 2.7% of the pacemakers were programmed to AV‐sequential pacing (DDD) and ventricular pacing (VVI), respectively. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics or electrocardiogram measures between patients programmed to the 3 pacing modes. Patients with pacemakers programmed to AAI had a lower ventricular pacing percentage at follow‐up (8 vs 55, and 46% [DDD and VVI, respectively]; P < .001).

Conclusions

There was no evident association between baseline characteristics and programmed pacing mode in patients with first‐degree AV‐block. The choice of pacing mode affects long‐term pacing burden, which in turn has been shown to influence outcome.
Deprescribing medications for older adults in the primary care context: A mixed studies review
Authors: Gillespie Robyn J. , Harrison Lindsey , Mullan Judy
Published: May 2018

Aims

This review investigates the factors that influence deprescribing of medications in primary care from the perspective of general practitioners (GPs) and community‐living older adults.

Methods

A mixed studies review structure was adopted searching Scopus, CINAHL, PsychINFO, ProQuest, and PubMed from January 2000 to December 2017. A manual search of reference lists was also conducted. Studies were included if they were original research available in English and explored general deprescribing rather than deprescribing of a specific class of medications. The Mixed Methods Assessment Tool was used to assess the quality of studies, and content analysis generated common categories across studies.

Results

Thirty‐eight articles were included, and 7 key categories were identified. The review found that the factors that influence deprescribing are similar across and within health systems and mostly act as barriers. These factors remained unchanged across the review period. The structural organisation of health systems remains poorly suited to facilitate deprescribing. Individual knowledge gaps of both GPs and older adults influence practices and attitudes towards deprescribing, and significant communication gaps occur between GPs and specialists and between GPs and older adults. As a result, deprescribing decision making is characterised by uncertainty, and deprescribing is often considered only when medication problems have already arisen. Trust plays a complex role, acting as both a barrier and facilitator of deprescribing.

Conclusions

Deprescribing is influenced by many factors. Despite recent interest, little change has occurred. Multilevel strategies aimed at reforming aspects of the health system and managing uncertainty at the practice and individual level, notably reducing knowledge limitations and closing communications gaps, may achieve change.
Impact of water transfer on interaction between surface water and groundwater in the lowland area of North China Plain
Authors: Kong Xiaole , Wang Shiqin , Liu Bingxia , Sun Hongyong , Sheng Zhuping
Published: May 2018

The contradiction between the freshwater shortage and the large demand of freshwater by irrigation was the key point in cultivated lowland area of North China Plain. Water transfer project brings fresh water from water resource‐rich area to water shortage area, which can in turn change the hydrological cycle in this region. Major ions and stable isotopes were used to study the temporal variations of interaction between surface water and groundwater in a hydrological year after a water transfer event in November 2014. Irrigation canal received transferred Yellow River, with 2.9% loss by evaporation during water transfer process. The effect of transferred water on shallow groundwater decreased with increasing distance from the irrigation canal. Pit pond without water transfer receives groundwater discharge. During dry season after water transfer event, shallow groundwater near the irrigation canal was recharged by lateral seepage and deep percolation of irrigation, whereas shallow groundwater far from irrigation canal was recharged by deep percolation of deep groundwater irrigation. Canal water lost by evaporation was 2.7–17.4%. Influence of water transfer gradually disappeared until March as the water usage of agricultural irrigation increased. In the dry season, groundwater discharged to irrigation canal and pond; 2.2–31.6% canal water and 11.3–20.0% pond water were lost by evaporation. In the rainy season (June to September), surface water was fed mainly by precipitation and surface run‐off, whereas groundwater was recharged by infiltration of precipitation. The two‐end member mix model showed that the mixing ratio of precipitation in pond and irrigation canal were 73–83.4% (except one pond with 28.1%) and 77.3–99.9%, respectively. Transferred water and precipitation were the important recharge sources for shallow groundwater, which decreased groundwater salinity in cultivated lowland area of North China Plain. With the temporary and spatial limitation of water transfer effects, increased water transfer amounts and frequency may be an effective way of mitigating regional water shortage. In addition, reducing the evaporation of surface water is also an important way to increase the utilization of transfer water.
P‐glycoprotein (MDR1/ABCB1) restricts brain accumulation and cytochrome P450‐3A (CYP3A) limits oral availability of the novel ALK/ROS1 inhibitor lorlatinib
Authors: Li Wenlong , Sparidans Rolf W. , Wang Yaogeng , Lebre Maria C. , Wagenaar Els , Beijnen Jos H. , Schinkel Alfred H.
Published: May 2018

Lorlatinib (PF‐06463922) is a promising oral anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) and ROS1 inhibitor currently in Phase III clinical trials for treatment of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) containing an ALK rearrangement. With therapy‐resistant brain metastases a major concern in NSCLC, lorlatinib was designed to have high membrane and blood–brain barrier permeability. We investigated the roles of the multidrug efflux transporters ABCB1 and ABCG2, and the multispecific drug‐metabolizing enzyme CYP3A in plasma pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of lorlatinib using genetically modified mouse strains. In vitro, human ABCB1 and mouse Abcg2 modestly transported lorlatinib. Following oral lorlatinib administration (at 10 mg/kg), brain accumulation of lorlatinib, while relatively high in wild‐type mice, was still fourfold increased in Abcb1a/1b−/− and Abcb1a/1b;Abcg2−/− mice, but not in single Abcg2−/− mice. Lorlatinib plasma levels were not altered. Oral coadministration of the ABCB1/ABCG2 inhibitor elacridar increased the brain accumulation of lorlatinib in wild‐type mice fourfold, that is, to the same level as in Abcb1a/1b;Abcg2−/− mice, without altering plasma exposure. Similar results were obtained for lorlatinib testis accumulation. In Cyp3a−/− mice, the plasma exposure of lorlatinib was increased 1.3‐fold, but was then twofold reduced upon transgenic overexpression of human CYP3A4 in liver and intestine, whereas relative tissue distribution of lorlatinib remained unaltered. Our data indicate that lorlatinib brain accumulation is substantially limited by P‐glycoprotein/ABCB1 in the blood–brain barrier, but this can be effectively reversed by elacridar coadministration. Moreover, oral availability of lorlatinib is markedly restricted by CYP3A4 activity. These insights may be used in optimizing the therapeutic application of lorlatinib.
Risk factors associated with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors in a cohort of 2.3 million Israeli adolescents
Authors: Katz Lior H. , Levi Zohar , Twig Gilad , Kark Jeremy D. , Leiba Adi , Derazne Estela , Liphshiz Irena , Keinan‐Boker Lital , Eisenstein Sapir , Afek Arnon
Published: May 2018

We investigated whether obesity and sociodemographic factors at adolescence are associated with incident gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP‐NET).Our cohort included 2.3 million Israeli adolescents examined at ages 16 to 19 years between 1967 and 2010. The baseline database included sex, country of birth, residential socioeconomic status (SES), body‐mass index (BMI) and height. Participants were followed through linkage with the National Cancer Registry up to 2012. We identified 221 cases of GEP‐NET (66 pancreatic, 52 gastric, 39 rectal, 27 appendiceal, 23 small bowel and 14 colonic). Immigration from the Former Soviet Union (FSU) was associated with the risk of small bowel and rectal NET's, [Hazard Ratio (HR) 4.79, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.37–16.76 and 3.43, 95% CI 1.20–9.83, respectively].Height >75th percentile and BMI ≥ 85th percentile were associated with increased risk of gastric NET (HR 2.25 95% CI 1.14–4.42 and HR 2.38, 95% CI 1.19–4.75, respectively). Female sex was associated with appendiceal NET (HR 2.30, 95% CI 1.06–4.96) while male gender was associated with an increased risk for NET of the small bowel [HR 4.72 (95% CI 1.10–20.41)].In conclusion, our findings suggest different risk factor associations with the various GEP‐NETS: immigrants from the FSU were at increased risk for small bowel and rectal NET; increased height and weight were associated with the risk of gastric NET and females were at increased risk for appendiceal NET. Further focus on the FSU population is indicated in addition to studies verifying the association of BMI and height with gastric NET.
Association of pre‐eclampsia with SOD2 Ala16Val polymorphism among mother–father–infant triads
Authors: Luo Zhong‐Cheng , Julien Pierre , Wei Shu‐Qin , Audibert Francois , Fraser William D. ,   the Maternal and Infant Research on Oxidative Stress (MIROS) study group
Published: May 2018

Objective

To determine whether pre‐eclampsia is associated with polymorphisms in superoxide dismutase (SOD) genes among mother–father–infant triads.

Methods

We did this follow‐up cohort study at 17 urban hospitals in Canada between October 1, 2008, and September 30, 2010. We recruited Canadian participants who had participated in the International Trial of Antioxidant Supplementation for the Prevention of Pre‐eclampsia. Saliva specimens were collected for DNA extraction. The SOD1 +35A/C (rs2234694) and SOD2 Ala16Val C/T (rs4880) single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped.

Results

Dual presence of the SOD2 Ala16Val TT variant among mother–father pairs (n=657) was associated with an increased risk of pre‐eclampsia when compared with the absence of the TT variant among the mother–father pairs (7/48 [14.6%] vs 11/339 [3.2%]; adjusted odds ratio 6.80, 95% confidence interval 2.32–19.95; P<0.001). By contrast, presence of a single T variant in mother–father pairs (16/270 [5.9%]) or mother–infant pairs (8/179 [4.5%]) was not associated with pre‐eclampsia. The SOD1 +35A/CSNP was not associated with pre‐eclampsia.

Conclusion

The SOD2 Ala16Val SNP might be involved in paternal influence on the maternal predisposition to pre‐eclampsia. Genotyping of mother–father pairs could be a promising strategy to identify pre‐eclampsia genes.
A Phase I, Single‐Ascending‐Dose Study in Healthy Subjects to Assess the Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics of DS‐2969b, a Novel GyrB Inhibitor
Authors: Dennie Justin , Vandell Alexander G. , Inoue Satoshi , Gajee Roohi , Pav Joseph , Zhang George , Zamora Cynthia , Masuda Nobuhisa , Uchiyama Minoru , Yamada Makiko , Senaldi Giorgio
Published: May 2018

DS‐2969b is a novel GyrB inhibitor in development for the treatment of Clostridium difficile infection. The aim of this study was to assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and effects on normal gastrointestinal microbiota groups of single daily oral ascending doses of DS‐2969b in healthy subjects. The study enrolled 6 sequential ascending dose cohorts (6 mg, 20 mg, 60 mg, 200 mg, 400 mg, and 600 mg). In each cohort, 6 subjects were administered DS‐2969b and 2 subjects were administered matching placebo. DS‐2969b was safe and well tolerated at all dose levels examined. All adverse events related to DS‐2969b were mild to moderate in severity and predominantly related to the gastrointestinal tract. DS‐2969a (free form of DS‐2969b) plasma concentrations increased with increasing doses; however, both the maximum serum concentration and area under the plasma concentration–time curve generally increased less than dose proportionally. DS‐2969a was predominantly eliminated in the urine, with feces as a minor route of elimination. While the overall proportion of DS‐2969a eliminated in the feces was low, target fecal levels sufficient for C. difficile eradication were achieved within 24 hours of administration with doses of 60 mg or higher. In exploratory analyses, DS‐2969b appeared to reduce bacterial counts in 8 of the 25 groups of normal intestinal microbiota examined, suggesting that DS‐2969b has only a mild effect on intestinal microbiota. Data from this study support and encourage further development of DS‐2969b as a novel treatment for C. difficile infection.
Comparison of extractive distillation separation sequences for acetonitrile/methanol/benzene multi‐azeotropic mixtures
Authors: Wang Chao , Wang Chen , Guang Chao , Zhang Zhishan
Published: May 2018

Background

The extractive distillation‐based separation of a multi‐azeotropic mixture has several optional solvents and schemes. The screen of a suitable solvent was performed and diverse extractive distillation sequences were compared for separating the specified mixture of acetonitrile/methanol/benzene.

Result

As a solvent breaking all binary azeotropes, chlorobenzene was selected over aniline on the basis vapor–liquid equilibrium diagrams and infinite dilution factors. Four separation sequences were optimized by the sequential iterative procedure on the basis of minimal total annual cost (TAC), and CO2 emissions were calculated. Among four sequences, sequence III, composed of two extractive distillation columns and one solvent recovery column, is the best scheme from environmental and economic viewpoints. Simple partial heat integration was further implemented and can save 20.08% and 8.86% in terms of energy cost and TAC.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate that the separation of acetonitrile/methanol/benzene is fully achievable using common extractive distillation with chlorobenzene as solvent. Moreover, there is a trade‐off between heat transfer in the reboiler‐condenser and corresponding energy consumption variations due to pressure changes when considering heat integration. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Polymer particle sizing from Raman spectra by regression of hard model parameters
Authors: Meyer‐Kirschner J. , Mitsos A. , Viell J.
Published: May 2018

The particle size of polymer colloids is a key characteristic. It directly affects Raman measurements due to light scattering by particles. This publication exploits the extent to which these spectral changes can be correlated to the particle sizes by using a spectral hard model and data‐driven model.

To this end, spectra of aqueous polystyrene nanoparticles are decomposed into pure component spectral models by means of indirect hard modeling (IHM). Each pure component model is characterized by multiple peak‐shaped Voigt profiles. By fitting the model to spectra of polymer colloids, spectral changes due to light scattering by particles are incorporated in the model parameters. The resulting parameter values are used as input for data‐driven partial least squares (PLS) regression to extract particle sizes. The method is applied to Raman spectra of polystyrene nanoparticles of 23–60 nm diameter measured repeatedly at concentrations 0.17–1 wt%. The hybrid model predicts the particle size with R2 = 0.99. In contrast, purely data‐driven PLS regression of the spectral intensities with 3 latent PLS variables results in R2 from 0.78 to 0.83. Resulting PLS scores portray a clear differentiability of Raman scattering and light scattering by particles within IHM model parameters. PLS regression coefficients further allow identification of individual peak parameters that correlate with particle size, which substantiates previous findings on correlation between Raman signal and scattering by polymer colloids. Combining IHM and data‐driven PLS regression demonstrates more accurate prediction of particle size for extended usage of Raman spectroscopy as comprehensive process analytical technology to determine sample concentrations and particle data.
Viscoelasticity and Dynamics of Intercalated Polymer/Bentonite Nanocomposites
Authors: Romo‐Uribe Angel
Published: May 2018

This research investigates confinement‐induced dynamics retardation behavior in intercalated acrylic/clay nanocomposites. Nanostructured waterborne latex contains up to 3 wt% nanoclay, and transmission electron microscopy shows well‐dispersed intercalated morphology. Dynamics in the melt is analyzed using the time‐temperature superposition principle. Confinement induces dynamics retardation, and the entanglement relaxation time τeincreases over an order of magnitude. The cooperative motion retardation also reduces viscous dissipation, as measured by the damping tanδ. Moreover, the rubbery modulus increases >10‐fold. The increase of rubbery modulus suggests that confinement hinders chain mobility. The system is then naturally segregated, with intercalated chains having slow dynamics. Hence, thermal analysis of freshly cast films shows one broad glass transition with temperatureTg,ifor all the nanocomposites, and upon annealing the nanocomposites exhibits twoTg's. TheTg,highsuggests regions of reduced chain mobility (i.e., intercalated chains); theTg,lowis associated to the bulk material with regions of higher mobility. The breadthTg,high–Tg,lowincreases with clay content indicating that the regions of fast and slow dynamics become more decoupled as confinement increases.
Precision Polyelectrolytes with Phenylsulfonic Acid Branches at Every Five Carbons
Authors: Kendrick Aaron , Neary William J. , Delgado Jose D. , Bohlmann Michele , Kennemur Justin G.
Published: May 2018

A precision polyethylene containing phenyl branches at every fifth carbon (p5Ph) is nearly quantitatively functionalized (≈95%) with sulfonic acid groups on the para‐position of each phenyl branch (p5PhS‐H). Unlike polystyrene sulfonate (PSS), p5PhS‐H has a glass transition temperature (Tg = 109 °C) well below its thermal decomposition temperature (Td ≈ 200 °C), making this new material capable of thermal processing into molds and films at temperatures between these thermal limits. Neutralization of the sulfonic acid groups with varying counter cations (Li+, Na+, Cs+) produces a new class of precision polyelectrolytes. Neutralization and increasing size of the counter cation improves the thermal decomposition temperature (Td) to over 400 °C for the Cs+ form. Neutralization causes Tg to increase above Td for the Li+ and Na+ form. The Cs+ form is found to have an accessible Tg = 294 °C. Further investigations of water absorption and the polyelectrolyte effect of these systems are discussed.
Characterization of a novel Gram‐stain‐positive anaerobic coccus isolated from the female genital tract: Genome sequence and description of Murdochiella vaginalis sp. nov.
Authors: Diop Khoudia , Diop Awa , Khelaifia Saber , Robert Catherine , Pinto Fabrizio Di , Delerce Jérémy , Raoult Didier , Fournier Pierre‐Edouard , Bretelle Florence , Fenollar Florence
Published: May 2018

Strain Marseille‐P2341T, a nonmotile, nonspore‐forming, Gram‐stain‐positive anaerobic coccus, was isolated in the vaginal specimen of a patient with bacterial vaginosis using culturomics. Its growth occurred at temperatures ranging from 25 to 42°C, with pH between 6.5 and 8.5, and at NaCl concentrations lower than 5%. The major fatty acids were C18:1n9 (27.7%) and C16:0 (24.4%). Its genome is 1,671,491 bp long with 49.48 mol% of G+C content. It is composed of 1,501 genes: 1,446 were protein‐coding genes and 55 were RNAs. Strain Marseille‐P2341T shared 97.3% of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with Murdochiella asaccharolytica, the phylogenetically closest species. These results enabled the classification of strain Marseille‐P2341T as a new species of the genus Murdochiella for which we proposed the name Murdochiella vaginalis sp. nov. The type strain is strain Marseille‐P2341T (=DSM 102237, =CSUR P2341).