bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support in the cardiac catheterization laboratory
Authors: Parr Christopher J. , Sharma Rajat , Arora Rakesh C. , Singal Rohit , Hiebert Brett , Minhas Kunal
Published: September 2019

Objectives

The aims of this single‐center retrospective study were to characterize and determine predictors of 30‐day survival in a cohort of patients requiring venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA‐ECMO) supported cardiopulmonary resuscitation (E‐CPR) in the cardiac catheterization laboratory (CCL) for cardiac arrest (CA) or refractory cardiogenic shock (CS).

Background

While safety in the CCL has improved, periprocedural mortality from CA remains high. The application of VA‐ECMO is an emerging form of resuscitation with a paucity of data evaluating its use in the CCL for CA or CS.

Methods

All consecutive patients aged 18 years or older presenting to a single CCL from October 2010 to May 2018 who required E‐CPR for CA or refractory CS were included. The primary outcome of our study was overall survival 30 days from VA‐ECMO initiation. Secondary outcomes included 1‐year survival, hospital length of stay, and ECMO related complications.

Results

Sixty‐two patients with a mean age of 60 ± 9 years, 63% male, were included. VA‐ECMO was initiated for CA in 39 patients (63%) and for CS in 23 patients (37%). The median ECMO duration was 48 hr. Overall 30‐day survival was 47% (CA group 44% vs. CS group 52%; p = .414). One‐year survival was 44%. Initial serum creatinine (OR 1.18 per 10 μmol/L increase; p = .016; AUC = 0.65) was the only multivariate predictor of 30‐day mortality.

Conclusions

The use of VA‐ECMO in the CCL is feasible, demonstrating 47% 30‐day survival, largely persistent to 1 year, in a cohort that otherwise has extremely high mortality.
Effect of saline organic acid solutions applied during soft wheat tempering on microbial load and flour functionality
Authors: Sabillón Luis , Stratton Jayne , Rose Devin , Bianchini Andréia
Published: September 2019

Background and objectives

In recent years, special concern has been raised about the safety of wheat‐based products. In light of several incidents of foodborne illness associated with flour, the objectives of this study were designed to (a) evaluate the efficacy of saline organic acids solutions to reduce the natural microbiota of soft wheat grain and flour, and (b) to assess the impact of these tempering solutions on the functional properties of soft wheat flour.

Findings

The microbial load of the tempered wheat was significantly reduced by all saline organic acid treatments. The combination of 5.0% lactic acid–NaCl was the most effective against aerobic mesophilic bacteria and Enterobacteriaceae, with average reductions of 3.1 ± 0.1 and 4.5 ± 0.0 log CFU/g, respectively. In addition, this tempering solution yielded flour with a significantly lower microbial load compared with the control. Tempering with saline organic acid solutions did result in minor, but significant, variations in the solvent retention capacity profile of some flours. However, the treatments did not cause significant changes in the pasting profile of flours or in the physical characteristics and texture profile of baked cookies.

Conclusions

The addition of organic acids and NaCl to the tempering water improved the microbiological quality of the wheat grain and the resulting flour without compromising its functionality.

Significance and novelty

This study evaluates the inclusion of antimicrobial agents in the water used to temper wheat grain prior to milling as a practical method to reduce the number of microbial contaminants in flour and flour‐based foods that are at risk for consumption without cooking or any killing step.
Starch digestibility properties of bread from hard red spring wheat cultivars released in the last 100 years
Authors: Simsek Senay , Budak Bilge , Schwebach Catherine Suzanne , Ovando‐Martínez Maribel
Published: September 2019

Background and objectives

There have been concerns that there is a link between the carbohydrate properties of modern wheat cultivars and increasing levels of obesity and diabetes worldwide. This research was conducted to determine starch composition and digestibility of thirty historic and modern hard red spring wheat cultivars and to evaluate whether there were statistical differences between the genotypes in relationship to the release year.

Findings

There were no significant differences (p < .05) between historic and modern wheat cultivars for amylose content in flour or for amylose and amylopectin molecular weight in flour and bread samples. Starch digestibility in bread did not show significant differences (p < .05) among cultivars, and there was no significant correlation (p < .05) with the release year and the SDS, HI, and eGI.

Conclusions

Starch digestibility of bread prepared from historic and modern wheat cultivars is not related to release year. It is unlikely that wheat breeding practices have caused wheat to be more rapidly digestible and the digestibility could be more related with the bread‐making process or formula than the release year.

Significance and novelty

Knowledge about the effect of the release year on starch in historical and modern wheat cultivars helps us to support that wheat breeding is not related to increased incidence of chronic disease.
Chronic hepatitis associated with antiribosomal‐P autoantibodies in a 14‐year‐old girl
Authors: Mejean Coline , Bertin Daniel , Guetta Kim , Desaldeleer Cécile , Butori Mathilde , Roquelaure Bertrand , Fabre Alexandre
Published: September 2019

We reported the first pediatric case of auto‐immune hepatitis with positive anti‐P antibodies. On the basis of our findings, adding auto anti‐P screening in pediatric seronegative HAI may be recommended.
Small and Narrowly Distributed Copper Nanoparticles Supported on Carbon Prepared by Surface Organometallic Chemistry for Selective Hydrogenation and CO2 Electroconversion Processes
Authors: Mavrokefalos Christos K. , Kaeffer Nicolas , Liu Hsueh‐Ju , Krumeich Frank , Copéret Christophe
Published: September 2019

Copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) are intensively investigated in recent years due to their promising catalytic properties, e. g. selective alkyne hydrogenation and CO2 electrocatalytic reduction. While dispersing small supported Cu nanoparticles is relatively straightforward on most oxides, obtaining the corresponding small and well dispersed nanoparticles on carbon supports is more challenging because of weaker metal‐support interactions resulting typically in larger particles and broader distribution. Here, we show that Surface Organometallic Chemistry can be applied on carbon support and allows the generation of small and narrowly dispersed Cu NPs (4.0+/−1.4 nm) supported on carbon. The thus‐obtained Cu nanoparticles are catalytically active in the selective semihydrogenation of an alkyne and the hydrogenation of ethyl cinnamate into the corresponding saturated ester. Moreover, these Cu NPs dispersed on a conductive support catalyze the electroconversion of CO2 towards C1 (CO, HCOO−, CH4) and C2 (C2H4) reduction products, with high Cu‐specific activity towards methane.
An All‐Prussian‐Blue‐Based Aqueous Sodium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Wang Baoqi , Wang Xiao , Liang Chu , Yan Mi , Jiang Yinzhu
Published: September 2019

Aqueous rechargeable sodium‐ion batteries have received great attention as an alternative to meet the growing demand of large‐scale electrochemical energy storage systems due to the earth‐abundant and low‐cost sodium resources. In this study, an all Prussian‐blue‐based aqueous sodium‐ion battery is constructed using copper and iron‐based Prussian blue analogues as cathode and anode, respectively, and neutral NaNO3solution as electrolyte. The battery delivers an average output voltage of 0.70 V, a specific capacity of 50 mAh g−1, and good rate capability with ∼86 % capacity retention over 250 cycles at 5 C. Moreover, the cathode, anode, and electrolyte materials are inexpensive, environmentally friendly, and inherently safe, which is particularly attractive for large‐scale energy storage applications.
The critical role of carbon in marrying silicon and graphite anodes for high‐energy lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Wu Jingxing , Cao Yinliang , Zhao Haimin , Mao Jianfeng , Guo Zaiping
Published: September 2019

Increasing the energy density of conventional lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is important for satisfying the demands of electric vehicles and advanced electronics. Silicon is considered as one of the most‐promising anodes to replace the traditional graphite anode for the realization of high‐energy LIBs due to its extremely high theoretical capacity, although its severe volume changes during lithiation/delithiation have led to a big challenge for practical application. In contrast, the co‐utilization of Si and graphite has been well recognized as one of the preferred strategies for commercialization in the near future. In this review, we focus on different carbonaceous additives, such as carbon nanotubes, reduced graphene oxide, and pyrolyzed carbon derived from precursors such as pitch, sugars, heteroatom polymers, and so forth, which play an important role in constructing micrometer‐sized hierarchical structures of silicon/graphite/carbon (Si/G/C) composites and tailoring the morphology and surface with good structural stability, good adhesion, high electrical conductivity, high tap density, and good interface chemistry to achieve high capacity and long cycling stability simultaneously. We first discuss the importance and challenge of the co‐utilization of Si and graphite. Then, we carefully review and compare the improved effects of various types of carbonaceous materials and their associated structures on the electrochemical performance of Si/G/C composites. We also review the diverse synthesis techniques and treatment methods, which are also significant factors for optimizing Si/G/C composites. Finally, we provide a pertinent evaluation of these forms of carbon according to their suitability for commercialization. We also make far‐ranging suggestions with regard to the selection of proper carbonaceous materials and the design of Si/G/C composites for further development.
An Ion‐Exchangeable MOF with Reversible Dehydration and Dynamic Structural Behavior (NH4)2[Zn2(O3PCH2CH2COO)2]⋅5 H2O (BIRM‐1)
Authors: Zhao Chao , Male Louise , Chen Tzu‐Yu , Barker Joseph A. , Shannon Ian J. , Anderson Paul A.
Published: September 2019

(NH4)2[Zn2(O3PCH2CH2COO)2]⋅5 H2O (BIRM‐1) is a new metal phosphonate material, synthesized through a simple hydrothermal reaction between zinc nitrate and 3‐phosphonopropionic acid, using urea and tetraethylammonium bromide as the reaction medium. In common with other metal–organic framework materials, BIRM‐1 has a large three‐dimensional porous structure providing potential access to a high internal surface area. Unlike most others, it has the advantage of containing ammonium cations within the pores and has the ability to undergo cation exchange. Additionally, BIRM‐1 also exhibits a reversible dehydration behavior involving an amorphization‐recrystallization cycle. The ability to undergo ion exchange and dynamic structural behavior are of interest in their own right, but also increase the range of potential applications for this material. Here the crystal structure of this new metal phosphonate and its ion exchange behavior with K+ as an exemplar are studied in detail, and its unusual structure‐reviving property reported.
Oxidative NHC‐Catalysis as Organocatalytic Platform for the Synthesis of Polyester Oligomers by Step‐Growth Polymerization
Authors: Ragno Daniele , Di Carmine Graziano , Brandolese Arianna , Bortolini Olga , Giovannini Pier Paolo , Fantin Giancarlo , Bertoldo Monica , Massi Alessandro
Published: September 2019

The application of N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalysis to the polycondensation of diols and dialdehydes under oxidative conditions is herein presented for the synthesis of polyesters using fossil‐based (ethylene glycol, phthalaldehydes) and bio‐based (furan derivatives, glycerol, isosorbide) monomers. The catalytic dimethyl triazolium/1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene couple and stoichiometric quinone oxidant afforded polyester oligomers with a number‐average molecular weight (Mn) in the range of 1.5–7.8 kg mol−1 as determined by NMR analysis. The synthesis of a higher molecular weight polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, PET) by an NHC‐promoted two‐step procedure via oligoester intermediates is also illustrated together with the catalyst‐controlled preparation of cross‐linked or linear polyesters derived from the trifunctional glycerol. The thermal properties (TGA and DSC analyses) of the synthesized oligoesters are also reported.
Colloidally Stable CdS Quantum Dots in Water with Electrostatically Stabilized Weak‐Binding, Sulfur‐Free Ligands
Authors: Arcudi Francesca , Westmoreland Dana Emily , Weiss Emily Allyn
Published: September 2019

Colloidal quantum dot (QD) photocatalysts have the electrochemical and optical properties to be highly effective for a range of redox reactions. QDs are proven photo‐redox catalysts for a variety of reactions in organic solvents but are less prominent for aqueous reactions. Aqueous QD photocatalysts require hydrophilic ligand shells that provide long‐term colloidal stability but are not so tight‐binding as to prevent catalytic substrates from accessing the QD surface. Common thiolate ligands, which also poison many co‐catalysts and undergo photo‐oxidative desorption, are therefore often not an option. This paper describes a framework for the design of water‐solubilizing ligands that are in dynamic exchange on and off the QD surface, but still provide long‐term colloidal stability to CdS QDs. The binding affinity and inter‐ligand electrostatic interactions of a bifunctional ligand, aminoethyl phosphonic acid (AEP), are tuned with the pH of the dispersion. The key to colloidal stability is electrostatic stabilization of the monolayer. This work demonstrates a means of mimicking the stabilizing power of a thiolate‐bound ligand with a zwitterionic tail group, but without the thiolate binding group.
Isolation and Analysis of Tumor‐Derived Exosomes
Authors: Ludwig Nils , Hong Chang‐Sook , Ludwig Sonja , Azambuja Juliana H. , Sharma Priyanka , Theodoraki Marie‐Nicole , Whiteside Theresa L.
Published: September 2019

A method for isolation of exosomes from tumor cell supernatants or cancer patients’ plasma is presented. Tumor‐derived exosomes (TEX) are defined as a subset of extracellular vesicles (EVs) sized at 30 to 150 nm and originating from multivesicular bodies (MVBs). The method utilizes size exclusion chromatography (SEC) for recovery of exosomes from cell‐line supernatants or cancer patients’ plasma. The recovered exosomes are morphologically intact, aggregate‐free, and functionally competent. Their molecular content parallels that of the parent tumor cells and they carry various immunoregulatory ligands known to modulate functions of immune cells. All exosomes isolated from tumor cell lines are TEX, while those isolated from plasma of cancer patients have to be fractionated into TEX and non‐TEX. Mini‐SEC allows for exosome isolation and recovery in quantities sufficient for molecular profiling, functional studies, and, in the case of plasma, further fractionation into TEX and non‐TEX. The mini‐SEC method can also be used for comparative studies of the exosome content in serial specimens of cancer patients’ body fluids. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Theoretical Study on the Optical Properties of Multichromophoric Systems Based on an Exciton Approach: Modification Guidelines
Authors: Shiraogawa Takafumi , Ehara Masahiro
Published: September 2019

The front cover artwork is provided by the group of Prof. Masahiro Ehara from the Institute for Molecular Science (Japan). The image shows the proposed theoretical strategy to enhance and generate circularly polarized luminescence of multichromophoric systems based on excitonic calculation and analysis. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cptc.201900064.
Discovery of natural naphthoquinones as sortase A inhibitors and potential anti‐infective solutions against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Nitulescu Georgiana , Mihai Dragos P. , Nicorescu Isabela M. , Olaru Octavian T. , Ungurianu Anca , Zanfirescu Anca , Nitulescu George M. , Margina Denisa
Published: September 2019

Three natural naphthoquinones were screened to find new anti‐virulence agents as inhibitors against sortase A from Staphylococcus aureus (SaSrtA) by quantifying the increase in fluorescence intensity upon substrate cleavage at various concentrations. The 5‐hydroxy‐1,4‐naphthalenedione derivatives, juglone and plumbagin, demonstrated a potent inhibitory effect, with IC50 values of 1.78 μM, respectively, 16.71 μM. The related 2‐hydroxy‐1,4‐naphthalenedione derivative, lawsone, demonstrated the selectivity of the chemical scaffold having no significant effect on SaSrtA. The experimental assay was reinforced by molecular docking experiments, antimicrobial, and toxicological studies. Molecular docking studies and the electrophilic character analysis suggest bonding to the enzyme active cysteine residue by a Michael addition reaction. None of the compounds had a significant effect on the concentration of total thiol proteins in the Daphnia magna toxicological assay after 24 hr exposure. Juglone and plumbagin moderately inhibited biofilm formation with no significant effect on bacterial growth of S. aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus epidermidis, indicating a selective anti‐virulence profile.
Fate‐mapping analysis using Rorb‐IRES‐Cre reveals apical‐to‐basal gradient of Rorb expression in mouse cochlea
Authors: Li Chao , Wang Yunfeng , Wang Guangqin , Lu Ying , He Shunji , Sun Yuwei , Liu Zhiyong
Published: September 2019

Background

Conditional loss‐of‐function studies are widely conducted using the Cre/Loxp system because this helps circumvent embryonic or neonatal lethality problems. However, Cre strains specific to the inner ear are lacking, and thus lethality frequently occurs even in conditional knockout studies.

Results

Here, we report a Rorb‐IRES‐Cre knockin mouse strain in which the Cre recapitulates the expression pattern of endogenous Rorb (RAR‐related orphan receptor beta). Analysis of Rorb‐IRES‐Cre/+; Rosa26‐CAG‐LSL‐tdTomato/+ cochlear samples revealed that tdTomato was expressed at the apical turn only by E12.5. TdTomato was observed in the apical and middle turns but was minimally expressed in the basal turn at E15.5, E18.5, and P5. However, most of the auditory hair cells (HCs) and supporting cells (SCs) in all three turns were tdTomato+ at P15 and P30. Intriguingly, no tdTomato+ vestibular cells were detected until P5 and a few cells were present at P15 and P30. Finally, we also confirmed Rorb mRNA and protein expression in cochlear HCs and SCs at P30.

Conclusions

We reveal that Rorb expression exhibits an apical‐to‐basal gradient in cochleae. The cochlear‐specific and apical‐to‐basal‐gradient Rorb Cre activity should enable discrimination of gene functions in cochlear vs vestibular regions as well as low‐frequency vs high‐frequency regions in the cochlea.
Solution and Solid‐State Structure of the First NHC‐Substituted Rhenium Heptahydrides
Authors: Grieco Gabriele , Blacque Olivier
Published: September 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue are Dr. Gabriele Grieco from the Zurich University of Applied Science (ZHAW) and Dr. Olivier Blacque from the University of Zurich Irchel (UZH), Switzerland. The cover image shows the crystal structure of a carbene‐ligand‐bearing rhenium heptahydride obtained with an X‐ray diffractometer.
How and for whom does a positive affect intervention work in fibromyalgia: An analysis of mediators and moderators
Authors: Molinari Guadalupe , Miragall Marta , Enrique Ángel , Botella Cristina , Baños Rosa María , García‐Palacios Azucena
Published: September 2019

Objectives

Psychological interventions designed to enhance positive affect are promising ways to promote adaptive functioning in people with chronic pain. However, few studies have addressed the efficacy of positive affect interventions in chronic pain populations and examined which patients can benefit more from them. The aim of the present study was to identify mediators and moderators of the best possible self intervention (BPS) in fibromyalgia patients.

Methods

We used data from a previous randomized controlled trial that examined changes in pain interference, depression, self‐efficacy and quality of life after the BPS intervention.

Results

Mediation analyses showed that depression mediated changes in pain interference. Positive and negative affect were significant mediators of the change in depression and quality of life. No significant mediators of the change in self‐efficacy were found. Baseline levels of quality of life, emotion regulation strategies of negative and positive affect, and rumination moderated the effects of the intervention on depressive symptomatology.

Discussion

In fibromyalgia patients, the effects of the BPS on the outcomes seem to be more related to changes in affect than to changes in future expectations.

Significance

This study presents evidence about who can benefit from an intervention designed to augment positive affect and promote positive functioning in FMS patients and how these changes occur. It extends previous findings on patient characteristics associated with the response to pain management interventions.
Nanoemulsified adlay bran oil reduces tyrosinase activity and melanin synthesis in B16F10 cells and zebrafish
Authors: Ting Yuwen , Hu Yin‐Ting , Hu Jing‐Yu , Chang Wen‐Chang , Huang Qingrong , Hsieh Shu‐Chen
Published: September 2019

The efficacy of oily components is often difficult to evaluate due to their incompatibility with most models. Here, we emulsified adlay bran oil (ABO), processed it to a nanoscale, and investigated its anti‐hyperpigmentation efficacy, assessed for its inhibitory effects against tyrosinase activity and melanin production, in an in vitro system (mouse melanoma B16F10 cells) and an in vivo system (zebrafish embryos). ABO induced dose‐dependent reductions in tyrosinase activity and melanin production in both the melanoma cells and zebrafish, without affecting viability. The efficacy of ABO was strongly influenced by emulsion particle size in the zebrafish but not in the cells. These results indicate that ABO has potential as a tyrosinase inhibitor and anti‐hyperpigmentation agent and that the emulsion system is an effective method for delivering the bioactive components of ABO to living systems that could be utilized for other oily components.
Coated Urea Materials for Improving Yields, Profitability, and Nutrient Use Efficiencies of Aromatic Rice
Authors: Shivay Yashbir Singh , Pooniya Vijay , Pal Madan , Ghasal Prakash Chand , Bana Ramswaroop , Jat Shankar Lal
Published: September 2019

Intensive cultivation and introduction of input‐responsive high‐yielding varieties with application of major nutrients in rice–wheat rotation of Indo‐Gangetic plains (IGPs) lead to multiple nutrient deficiencies. A survey of Indian soils has shown that 40% are deficient in available zinc (Zn), 33% in sulfur (S), and 33% in boron (B). Studies have indicated that application of these nutrients with major nutrients can improve the crop productivity. Keeping the importance of aromatic rice in view, coated‐urea materials and their effects on rice yields, nitrogen (N), and Zn content in different parts and input economics are evaluated. Three field trials are conducted on aromatic rice to test boron‐coated urea (BCU), sulfur‐coated urea (SCU), and zinc‐coated urea (ZnCU) in 2013 and 2014. Results indicate that the highest yields are obtained with 0.5% BCU, 5.0% SCU, and 2.5% ZnCU as zinc sulfate heptahydrate. These treatments increase grain yield by 13%, 25%, and 17.9% over prilled urea (PU). Moreover, 0.5% BCU, 5% SCU, and 2.5% ZnCU register the highest N, S, and Zn contents in bran, husk, grain, and straw. Coated‐urea materials also improve use efficiencies and harvest index of N and Zn over PU. The findings of this study suggest that 0.5% boron, 5.0% sulfur, or 2.5% zinc‐coated urea show improvement in returns and benefit–cost ratio in aromatic rice of western IGPs.
The polarity and properties of radial glia‐like neural stem cells are altered by seizures with status epilepticus: Study using an improved mouse pilocarpine model of epilepsy
Authors: Sasaki‐Takahashi Natsu , Shinohara Hiroshi , Shioda Seiji , Seki Tatsunori
Published: September 2019

In the adult mouse hippocampus, new neurons are produced by radial glia‐like (RGL) neural stem cells in the subgranular zone, which extend their apical processes toward the molecular layer, and express the astrocyte marker glial fibrillary acidic protein, but not the astrocyte marker S100β. In rodent models of epilepsy, adult hippocampal neurogenesis was reported to be increased after acute and mild seizures, but to be decreased by chronic and severe epilepsy. In the present study, we investigated how the severity of seizures affects neurogenesis and RGL neural stem cells in acute stages of epilepsy, using an improved mouse pilocarpine model in which pilocarpine‐induced hypothermia was prevented by maintaining body temperature, resulting in a high incidence rate of epileptic seizures and low rate of mortality. In mice that experienced seizures without status epilepticus (SE), the number of proliferating progenitors and immature neurons were significantly increased, whereas no changes were observed in RGL cells. In mice that experienced seizures with SE, the number of proliferating progenitors and immature neurons were unchanged, but the number of RGL cells with an apical process was significantly reduced. Furthermore, the processes of the majority of RGL cells extended inversely toward the hilus, and about half of the aberrant RGL cells expressed S100β. These results suggest that seizures with SE lead to changes in the polarity and properties of RGL neural stem cells, which may direct them toward astrocyte differentiation, resulting in the reduction of neural stem cells producing new granule cells. This also suggests the possibility that cell polarity of RGL stem cells is important for maintaining the stemness of adult neural stem cells.
The effect of baseline antipsychotic status on the 12‐month outcome in initially stabilized patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Fountoulakis Konstantinos N. , Panagiotidis Panagiotis , Nimatoudis Ioannis
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Recently, the usefulness of antipsychotics has been challenged. The aim of the study was to measure the real‐life effect of antipsychotic treatment on remission and recovery rates in already stabilized patients with schizophrenia after 1 year.

Material and Methods

The study included 133 stabilized patients with schizophrenia (77 males and 56 females; aged 33.55 ± 11.22 years). The assessment included testing at baseline and after 1 year with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, Calgary Depression Scale, State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, UKU, Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale, and General Assessment of Functioning.

Results

More patients were on antipsychotics after 1 year (increase by 16.45%). There was an increase in the remission by 75% and in the recovery rate by 66%. It was not possible to predict the outcome on the basis of baseline variables.

Discussion

There is an accumulating beneficial effect of antipsychotic treatment over a 12‐month period; early lack of remission is not prognostic of a poor outcome. There might be different neurobiological mechanisms underlying acute and sustained response. Both remission and recovery are difficult to achieve for patients with schizophrenia and characterize only a minority of patients. Only a very small minority of patients (4.5%) that is impossible to identify a priori would do well without off antipsychotics.
Vitamin D: Giveth to Those Who Needeth
Authors: Lips Paul , Bilezikian John P , Bouillon Roger
Published: September 2019

Severe vitamin D deficiency may cause rickets. While this point is not disputed, the use of vitamin D in the elderly to prevent fractures has been challenged recently by a meta‐analysis of 81 RCTs, suggesting that the effects of vitamin D were trivial. As is true for any review of the literature, the interpretation of a meta‐analysis can be confounded by the choice of publications to include or exclude. Indeed, the authors excluded RCTs with combined vitamin D and calcium supplementation, included futile studies of very short duration, or studies with high bolus doses known to transiently increase fracture risk. The best available data show that calcium and vitamin D supplementation of elderly subjects can decrease the risk of hip and other non‐vertebral fractures, especially in institutionalized subjects or elderly subjects with poor calcium and vitamin D status. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with many chronic diseases. The VIDA and VITAL trials did not show a protective effect on cardiovascular diseases and cancer. The D2d study also did not influence the progress of prediabetes to diabetes. However, the baseline 25OHD concentrations of the majority of the participants of all these trials were essentially normal. Post‐hoc analysis of these studies suggest some possibly beneficial health outcomes in vitamin D deficient subjects. A meta‐analysis suggested that vitamin D could partly prevent upper respiratory infections. Mendelian randomization studies suggest a causal link between lifelong low vitamin D status and multiple sclerosis. A vitamin D supplement in pregnant women may decrease maternal morbidity and improve the health of their offspring. Better‐designed studies are needed to answer all outstanding questions. However, based on all available data, it seems that correction of vitamin D and/or calcium deficiency of infants, pregnant women and elderly subjects can improve their health. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Identification of functional lncRNAs based on competing endogenous RNA network in osteoblast differentiation
Authors: Hong Shuai , Hu Supei , Kang Zhengyang , Liu Zhiguo , Yang Weibin , Zhang Yongzhi , Yang Dengfeng , Ruan Wenhui , Yu Guoyong , Sun Liang , Chen Liang
Published: September 2019

Adult human mesenchymal stem cells have the potential to differentiate into osteoblast, which plays crucial roles in bone regeneration and repair. Some transcriptional factors (TFs), such as BMP‐2 and RUNX2, have been demonstrated to control the differentiation processes. It is important to discover more key regulators in osteoblast differentiation. Recently, some studies found long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) participating in osteoblast differentiation, such as MALAT1, DANCR, and ANCR. In this study, we performed a network‐based computational analysis to investigate the lncRNA–messenger RNA (mRNA) crosstalks via integrating microRNA (miRNA)–RNA interactions, gene coexpression, and protein–protein interactions. First, multiple topology analyses were performed to osteoblast‐differentiation‐related lncRNA–mRNA network (ODLMN). Several lncRNAs with central topology structures were identified as key regulators. Results showed that these lncRNAs participated in osteoblast differentiation via phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K), mitogen‐activated protein kinase, and Ras signals. Previous studies have demonstrated that lncRNAs exert functions by involving in close modules. Second, after performing module searching in ODLMN, two functional modules were identified, which played crucial roles through involving in PI3K/protein kinase B, cyclic adenosine 3ʹ,5ʹ‐monophosphate, and hypoxia‐inducible factor 1 pathways. Third, a subset of core lncRNA–TF crosstalks that might form feedback loops to control the biological processes in osteoblast differentiation was identified. These core lncRNA–TF feedback loops showed more TF binding affinity than other lncRNAs. All these results can help us to uncover the molecular mechanism and provide new targets for bone regeneration and repair.
Plasma‐induced precipitation of metal ions in aqueous solutions
Authors: Khlyustova Anna , Sirotkin Nikolay , Titov Valery
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

This work focuses on removing metal ions (Fe3+, Cu2+, and Zn2+) from aqueous solutions and real wastewater by underwater plasma.

RESULTS

Results show that the joint presence of Fe3+, Cu2+, and Zn2+ are needed for effective precipitation of these ions from aqueous solutions. The short‐time underwater plasma treatment leads to more effective removal of metal ions from real wastewater compared to treatment facilities of a factory.

CONCLUSIONS

Removing metal ions from aqueous solutions of their mixture by underwater plasma occurs via formation of non‐dissolved substances on the base of metal oxide/hydroxide. Efficient removal of metal ions from real wastewater allows the creation of a prototype setup as one of the blocks of treatment facilities at a chemical factory. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Spectral Diffusion Analysis of Intravoxel Incoherent Motion MRI in Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Authors: Wong Sau May , Backes Walter H. , Drenthen Gerhard S. , Zhang C. Eleana , Voorter Paulien H.M. , Staals Julie , van Oostenbrugge Robert J. , Jansen Jacobus F.A.
Published: September 2019

Background

Cerebral intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) imaging assumes two components. However, more compartments are likely present in pathologic tissue. We hypothesized that spectral analysis using a nonnegative least‐squares (NNLS) approach can detect an additional, intermediate diffusion component, distinct from the parenchymal and microvascular components, in lesion‐prone regions.

Purpose

To investigate the presence of this intermediate diffusion component and its relation with cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD)‐related lesions.

Study Type

Prospective cross‐sectional study.

Population

Patients with cSVD (n = 69, median age 69.8) and controls (n = 39, median age 68.9).

Field Strength/Sequence

Whole‐brain inversion recovery IVIM acquisition at 3.0T.

Assessment

Enlarged perivascular spaces (PVS) were rated by three raters. White matter hyperintensities (WMH) were identified on a fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) image using a semiautomated algorithm.

Statistical Tests

Relations between IVIM measures and cSVD‐related lesions were studied using the Spearman's rank order correlation.

Results

NNLS yielded diffusion spectra from which the intermediate volume fraction fint was apparent between parenchymal diffusion and microvasular pseudodiffusion. WMH volume and the extent of MRI‐visible enlarged PVS in the basal ganglia (BG) and centrum semiovale (CSO) were correlated with fint in the WMHs, BG, and CSO, respectively. fint was 4.2 ± 1.7%, 7.0 ± 4.1% and 13.6 ± 7.7% in BG and 3.9 ± 1.3%, 4.4 ± 1.4% and 4.5 ± 1.2% in CSO for the groups with low, moderate, and high number of enlarged PVS, respectively, and increased with the extent of enlarged PVS (BG: r = 0.49, P < 0.01; CSO: r = 0.23, P = 0.02). fint in the WMHs was 27.1 ± 13.1%, and increased with the WMH volume (r = 0.57, P < 0.01).

Data Conclusion

We revealed the presence of an intermediate diffusion component in lesion‐prone regions of cSVD and demonstrated its relation with enlarged PVS and WMHs. In tissue with these lesions, tissue degeneration or perivascular edema can lead to more freely diffusing interstitial fluid contributing to fint.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1170–1180.
Sunflower wax recovered from oil tank settlings: Revaluation of a waste product from the oilseed industry
Authors: Redondas Cintia Elizabeth , Baümler Erica Raquel , Carelli Amalia Antonia
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

The sunflower oil industry produces a large amount of waste that is not currently commercially exploited, as in the case of oil‐tank settlings. The recovery of a high value‐added by‐product, such as sunflower wax, would increase the commercial value of this waste. In this original research paper, a method that allows the recovery and purification of this by‐product was developed. The wax was characterized and its potential use as an organogelator agent was investigated.

RESULTS

The waste sample was composed of 45.1% oily material, 16.9% of this being impure waxes. Purification was performed through two different methods, obtaining three waxes with different degrees of purity. All the waxes were composed of wax esters with a range of 40–60 carbon atoms, exhibiting traces of carotenes, free fatty acids, and free fatty alcohols. The presence of phospholipids was observed in two of them. The third wax presented a higher total wax ester content and physicochemical characteristics (color and thermal behavior) similar to those of commercial sunflower waxes, and was the most efficient organogelator agent, requiring only a small amount of wax (1.5%) to structure high oleic sunflower oil.

CONCLUSION

It was verified that sunflower wax could be recovered from oil‐tank settlings. A purification method that allowed sunflower wax with similar physicochemical properties to those of commercial waxes to be obtained was also developed. The purified waxes were capable of structuring high oleic sunflower oil. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Propolis: types, composition, biological activities, and veterinary product patent prospecting
Authors: Santos Laerte M , Fonseca Maísa S , Sokolonski Ana R , Deegan Kathleen R , Araújo Roberto PC , Umsza‐Guez Marcelo A , Barbosa Josiane DV , Portela Ricardo D , Machado Bruna AS
Published: September 2019

Propolis is a resinous substance composed of a mixture of different plant parts and molecules secreted by bees. Chemically, it is defined as a complex matrix containing biologically active molecules with antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, hepatoprotective, and immunomodulatory activities. It is widely employed in cosmetic formulations and pharmaceutical products and is one of the most widely used natural products. However, the effects and strength of these biological activities depend on the chemical profile and composition of each propolis type. This composition is associated with the diversity of local flora, the place and period of collection, and the genetics of the bees. In this context, the objective of this review was to investigate the biological, chemical, and microbiological properties of propolis. A technological prospection was also performed on patents for products designed to be used in animal health. Our investigation shows that the literature contains diverse studies dedicated to comparing and describing the composition and therapeutic properties of propolis. These studies demonstrate the potential biological use of propolis in veterinary medicine, showing the applications of propolis extracts in different formulations. However, there are a low number of propolis‐based veterinary products with a registered patent. Thus, the development of products based on propolis is a promising market to be exploited. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Role of radiation therapy for retroperitoneal sarcomas: An eight‐institution study from the US Sarcoma Collaborative
Authors: Chouliaras Konstantinos , Senehi Rebecca , Ethun Cecilia G. , Poultsides George , Grignol Valerie , Clarke Callisia N. , Roggin Kevin K. , Fields Ryan C. , Schwartz Patrick B. , Ronnekleiv‐Kelly Sean M. , D'Agostino Ralph , Johnson Emily N. , Levine Edward A. , Cardona Kenneth , Votanopoulos Konstantinos I.
Published: September 2019

Background

The use of radiation therapy in the treatment of retroperitoneal sarcomas has increased in recent years. Its impact on survival and recurrence is unclear.

Methods

A retrospective propensity score matched (PSM) analysis of patients with primary retroperitoneal soft tissue sarcomas, who underwent resection from 2000 to 2016 at eight institutions of the US Sarcoma Collaborative, was performed. Patients with metastatic disease, desmoid tumors, and palliative resections were excluded.

Results

Total 425 patients were included, 56 in the neoadjuvant radiation group (neo‐RT), 75 in the adjuvant radiation group (adj‐RT), and 294 in the no radiotherapy group (no‐RT). Median age was 59.5 years, 186 (43.8%) were male with a median follow up of 31.4 months. R0 and R1 resection was achieved in 253 (61.1%) and 143 (34.5%), respectively. Overall 1:1 match of 46 adj‐RT and 59 neo‐RT patients was performed using histology, sex, age, race, functional status, tumor size, grade, resection status, and chemotherapy. Unadjusted recurrence‐free survival (RFS) was 35.9 months (no‐RT) vs 33.5 months (neo‐RT) and 27.2 months (adj‐RT), P = .43 and P = .84, respectively. In the PSM, RFS was 17.6 months (no‐RT) vs 33.9 months (neo‐RT), P = .28 and 19 months (no‐RT) vs 27.2 months (adj‐RT), P = .1.

Conclusions

Use of radiotherapy, both in adjuvent or neoadjuvent setting, was not associated with improved survival or reduced recurrence rate.
Examining Associations Between Hurricane Sandy Exposure and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder by Community of Residence
Authors: Schwartz Rebecca M. , Rasul Rehana , Gargano Lisa M. , Lieberman‐Cribbin Wil , Brackbill Robert M. , Taioli Emanuela
Published: September 2019

Exposure to 2012's Hurricane Sandy differed by community across New York City and nearby Long Island, and the differential impact of exposure on mental health concerns must be studied to enhance resilience in vulnerable communities. We assessed the association between self‐reported Hurricane Sandy exposure and subsequent posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, obtained through validated questionnaires completed by residents of lower Manhattan (n = 1,134), Queens/Long Island (LI)/Staten Island (SI; n = 622), and the Rockaways (n = 1,011); mean assessment times were 7, 14, and 32 months post‐Sandy, respectively. The median number of hurricane exposures was similar for all communities; however, Rockaways residents had a higher proportion of likely PTSD symptoms (18.8%) compared to lower Manhattan (8.0%) and Queens/LI/SI residents (5.8%). Regarding likely PTSD, there was significant interaction between total hurricane exposure and community, p = .002, and flooding and community, p = .040. Number of hurricane exposures was associated with higher odds of likely PTSD in Queens/LI/SI, AOR = 1.61, 95% CI [1.34, 1.94]; lower Manhattan, AOR = 1.43, 95% CI [1.28, 1.59]; and the Rockaways, AOR = 1.25, 95% CI [1.16, 1.35]. Flooding was associated with increased odds of likely PTSD in the Rockaways, AOR = 1.65, 95% CI [1.01, 2.69]; and Queens/LI/SI, AOR = 3.29, 95% CI [1.08, 10.00]. This study emphasizes the differential impact of hurricane exposure on subsequent PTSD symptoms in three communities affected by Hurricane Sandy. Future preparedness and recovery efforts must understand community correlates of mental health concerns to promote resilience in vulnerable communities.
Adjunctive techniques to improve access of the endoscopic prelacrimal recess approach
Authors: Khong Grace C. , Medikeri Gaurav , Tierney Claire , Leong Samuel C.
Published: September 2019

Objectives

To determine whether adjunctive surgical techniques could improve access of instruments provided by the endoscopic prelacrimal recess approach to the anatomical boundaries of the maxillary sinus, and pterygopalatine and infratemporal fossa.

Methods

Ten fresh‐frozen adult cadaver heads were utilized. The anatomical areas of interest were fixed, bony boundaries of the maxillary sinus, infratemporal fossa, and pterygopalatine fossa: alveolar recess (AR), zygomatic recess (ZR), perpendicular plate of the palatine bone (PB), ascending ramus of mandible (RM), floor of the orbit medial and lateral to infraorbital nerve (M‐ION and L‐ION, respectively). Access to the areas were compared using standard sinus surgery instruments (straight and 45° forceps) introduced via the prelacrimal recess approach, trans‐septal window and canine fossa puncture.

Results

The prelacrimal recess approach successfully provided access to the PB and M‐ION in >90% of dissections when using both the straight and 45° forceps. With the straight forceps, the ability to successfully access to the AR and ZR was the lowest at 50% and 35% respectively, although improving to 75% and 60% respectively with the 45° forceps. Access to the AR, ZR, and L‐ION improved significantly when the 45° forceps was introduced through the trans‐septal window. Frequency of access to the RM when either instruments when introduced through the canine fossa puncture was no greater than 60% of the dissections.

Conclusions

The addition of a small trans‐septal window for instruments significantly improved access of the prelacrimal recess approach especially to the orbital floor, lateral margins of the maxillary sinus, and retromaxillary space.

Level of Evidence

4Laryngoscope, 130: 1857–1863, 2020
Patterns and processes of free‐living and particle‐associated bacterioplankton and archaeaplankton communities in a subtropical river‐bay system in South China
Authors: Wang Yongming , Pan Jie , Yang Jun , Zhou Zhichao , Pan Yueping , Li Meng
Published: September 2019

Free‐living and particle‐associated microbial communities play critical roles in nutrient cycles in aquatic systems. However, little is known about their assembly process, function, and interactions. Here, by using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing of size‐fractionated samples collected during the wet and dry seasons, we investigated the assembly processes and co‐occurrence patterns of bacterial and archaeal communities in the Shenzhen River‐Bay system, South China. The bacterial and archaeal communities showed specific distribution patterns according to the size fraction (free‐living vs. particle‐associated), habitat (river vs. estuary), and seasonality (wet vs. dry season). Neutral modeling revealed that the stochastic pattern was more pronounced for bacteria than archaea, although both deterministic and stochastic processes significantly influenced the assembly of bacterial and archaeal communities. Homogeneous selection had a relatively higher importance in structuring bacterioplankton in free‐living fractions, while this process was more important in structuring archaeaplankton in particle‐associated fractions. Aquatic microbial community composition and assembly processes were most strongly associated with salinity and water temperature. Network analysis for each size fraction of the plankton revealed higher connectivity in the particle‐associated communities than the free‐living communities for intra‐bacteria, inter‐bacteria/archaea, and intra‐archaea associations, accordingly, when nonlinear associations were considered. These findings expand the current understanding of the ecological mechanisms and Archaea‐Bacteria interactions, underlying the size‐fractionated plankton dynamics in the river‐bay system.