bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cognitive behavioral treatment of insomnia in school‐aged children with autism spectrum disorder: A pilot feasibility study
Authors: McCrae Christina S. , Chan Wai Sze , Curtis Ashley F. , Deroche Chelsea B. , Munoz Melissa , Takamatsu Stephanie , Muckerman Julie E. , Takahashi Nicole , McCann Dillon , McGovney Kevin , Sahota Pradeep , Mazurek Micah O.
Published: October 2019

Insomnia is common in autism and associated with challenging behavior and worse parent sleep. Cognitive behavioral treatment for childhood insomnia (CBT‐CI) is efficacious in typically developing children, but not yet tested in school‐aged children with autism. This single arm pilot tested 8‐session CBT‐CI in 17 children with autism and insomnia (M age = 8.76 years, SD = 1.99) and their parent(s) (M age = 39.50 years, SD = 4.83). Treatment integrity was assessed for each session [delivery (by therapist), receipt (participant understanding), and enactment (home practice)]. Children and parents wore actigraphs and completed electronic diaries for 2‐weeks to obtain objective and subjective sleep onset latency (SOL), total sleep/wake times (TST/TWT), and sleep efficiency (SE) at pre/post/1‐month follow‐up. Parents also completed the Aberrant Behavior Checklist [irritability, lethargy, stereotypy, hyperactivity, inappropriate speech (e.g., excessive/repetitive, loud self‐talk)] at pre/post/1‐month. Fifteen children completed all sessions. Average integrity scores were high [90%‐delivery/receipt, 87.5%‐enactment]. Parents found CBT‐CI helpful, age‐appropriate, and autism‐friendly. Paired samples t‐tests (family‐wise error controlled) found CBT‐CI improved child sleep (objective SOL‐18 min, TWT‐ 34 min, SE‐5%; subjective SOL‐29 min, TST‐63 min, TWT‐45 min, SE‐8%), and decreased irritability, lethargy, stereotypy, and hyperactivity. At 1‐month, objective TST improved, inappropriate speech decreased, but hyperactivity was no longer decreased. Other gains were maintained. Parent sleep (objective SOL‐12 min, TST‐35 min, TWT‐21 min, SE‐4%; subjective SOL‐11 min, TWT‐ 31min, SE‐11%) and fatigue also improved. At 1‐month, gains were maintained. This pilot shows CBT‐CI is a feasible treatment that holds promise for improving child and parent sleep and functioning and suggests a randomized controlled trial in school‐aged children with autism is worth conducting. Autism Res 2020, 13: 167–176. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

Insomnia is common in autism and associated with challenging behaviors and poor parent sleep and stress. Cognitive behavioral treatment for childhood insomnia (CBT‐CI) has not been tested in school‐aged children with autism. This pilot study shows therapists, parents, and children were able to use CBT‐CI to improve child and parent sleep, child behavior, and parent fatigue. Parents found CBT‐CI helpful, age‐appropriate, and autism‐friendly. CBT‐CI holds promise for treating insomnia in school‐aged children with autism and deserves further testing.
Randomized clinical trial of extensive intraoperative peritoneal lavage versus standard treatment for resectable advanced gastric cancer (CCOG 1102 trial)
Authors: Misawa K , Mochizuki Y , Sakai M , Teramoto H , Morimoto D , Nakayama H , Tanaka N , Matsui T , Ito Y , Ito S , Tanaka K , Uemura K , Morita S , Kodera Y
Published: October 2019

Background

A survival benefit of extensive intraoperative peritoneal lavage (EIPL) has been reported in patients with gastric cancer with positive peritoneal cytology. The hypothesis of this study was that EIPL may reduce peritoneal recurrence in patients with advanced gastric cancer who undergo surgery with curative intent.

Methods

This was an open-label, multi-institutional, randomized, phase 3 trial to assess the effects of EIPL versus standard treatment after curative gastrectomy for resectable gastric cancer of T3 status or above. The primary endpoint was disease-free survival (DFS); secondary endpoints were overall survival, peritoneal recurrence-free survival and incidence of adverse events.

Results

Between July 2011 and January 2014, 314 patients were enrolled from 15 institutions and 295 patients were analysed (145 and 150 in the EIPL and no-EIPL groups respectively). The 3-year DFS rate was 63·9 (95 per cent c.i. 55·5 to 71·2) per cent in the EIPL group and 59·7 (51·3 to 67·1) per cent in the control group (hazard ratio (HR) 0·81, 95 per cent c.i. 0·57 to 1·16; P = 0·249). The 3-year overall survival rate was 75·0 (67·1 to 81·3) per cent in the EIPL group and 73·7 (65·9 to 80·1) per cent in the control group (HR 0·91, 0·60 to 1·37; P = 0·634). Peritoneal recurrence-free survival was not significantly different between the two groups (HR 0·92, 0·62 to 1·36; P = 0·676). No intraoperative complications related to EIPL were observed.

Conclusion

EIPL did not improve survival or peritoneal recurrence in patients who underwent gastrectomy for advanced gastric cancer. Registration number: 000005907 (http://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/index.htm).
Effect of donor nephrectomy time during circulatory-dead donor kidney retrieval on transplant graft failure
Authors: Heylen L , Pirenne J , Samuel U , Tieken I , Coemans M , Naesens M , Sprangers B , Jochmans I
Published: October 2019

Background

When the blood supply ceases in a deceased organ donor, ischaemic injury starts. Kidneys are cooled to reduce cellular metabolism and minimize ischaemic injury. This cooling is slow and kidneys are lukewarm during nephrectomy. Smaller single-centre studies have shown that prolonged donor nephrectomy time decreases early kidney transplant function, but the effect on long-term outcome has never been investigated in large multicentre cohort studies.

Methods

The relationship between donor nephrectomy time and death-censored graft survival was evaluated in recipients of single adult-to-adult, first-time deceased-donor kidneys transplanted in the Eurotransplant region between 2004 and 2013.

Results

A total of 13 914 recipients were included. Median donor nephrectomy time was 51 (i.q.r. 39–65) min. Kidneys donated after circulatory death had longer nephrectomy times than those from brain-dead donors: median 57 (43–78) versus 50 (39–64) min respectively (P < 0·001). Donor nephrectomy time was independently associated with graft loss when kidneys were donated after circulatory death: adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1·05 (95 per cent c.i. 1·01 to 1·09) per 10-min increase (P = 0·026). The magnitude of this effect was comparable to the effect of each hour of additional cold ischaemia: HR 1·04 (1·01 to 1·07) per h (P = 0·004). For kidneys donated after brain death, there was no effect of nephrectomy time on graft survival: adjusted HR 1·01 (0·98 to 1·04) per 10 min (P = 0·464).

Conclusion

Prolonged donor nephrectomy time impairs graft outcome in kidneys donated after circulatory death. Keeping this short, together with efficient cooling during nephrectomy, might improve outcome.
Systematic review of the current status of cadaveric simulation for surgical training
Authors: James H K , Chapman A W , Pattison G T R , Griffin D R , Fisher J D
Published: October 2019

Background

There is growing interest in and provision of cadaveric simulation courses for surgical trainees. This is being driven by the need to modernize and improve the efficiency of surgical training within the current challenging training climate. The objective of this systematic review is to describe and evaluate the evidence for cadaveric simulation in postgraduate surgical training.

Methods

A PRISMA-compliant systematic literature review of studies that prospectively evaluated a cadaveric simulation training intervention for surgical trainees was undertaken. All relevant databases and trial registries were searched to January 2019. Methodological rigour was assessed using the widely validated Medical Education Research Quality Index (MERSQI) tool.

Results

A total of 51 studies were included, involving 2002 surgical trainees across 69 cadaveric training interventions. Of these, 22 assessed the impact of the cadaveric training intervention using only subjective measures, five measured impact by change in learner knowledge, and 23 used objective tools to assess change in learner behaviour after training. Only one study assessed patient outcome and demonstrated transfer of skill from the simulated environment to the workplace. Of the included studies, 67 per cent had weak methodology (MERSQI score less than 10·7).

Conclusion

There is an abundance of relatively low-quality evidence showing that cadaveric simulation induces short-term skill acquisition as measured by objective means. There is currently a lack of evidence of skill retention, and of transfer of skills following training into the live operating theatre.
Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging versus task‐based activity for language mapping and correlation with perioperative cortical mapping
Authors: Lemée Jean‐Michel , Berro David Hassanein , Bernard Florian , Chinier Eva , Leiber Louis‐Marie , Menei Philippe , Ter Minassian Aram
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Preoperative language mapping using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) aims to identify eloquent areas in the vicinity of surgically resectable brain lesions. fMRI methodology relies on the blood‐oxygen‐level‐dependent (BOLD) analysis to identify brain language areas. Task‐based fMRI studies the BOLD signal increase in brain areas during a language task to identify brain language areas, which requires patients' cooperation, whereas resting‐state fMRI (rsfMRI) allows identification of functional networks without performing any explicit task through the analysis of the synchronicity of spontaneous BOLD signal oscillation between brain areas. The aim of this study was to compare preoperative language mapping using rsfMRI and task fMRI to cortical mapping (CM) during awake craniotomies.

Methods

Fifty adult patients surgically treated for a brain lesion were enrolled. All patients had a presurgical language mapping with both task fMRI and rsfMRI. Identified language networks were compared to perioperative language mapping using electric cortical stimulation.

Results

Resting‐state fMRI was able to detect brain language areas during CM with a sensitivity of 100% compared to 65.6% with task fMRI. However, we were not able to perform a specificity analysis and compare task‐based and rest fMRI with our perioperative setting in the current study. In second‐order analysis, task fMRI imaging included main nodes of the SN and main areas involved in semantics were identified in rsfMRI.

Conclusion

Resting‐state fMRI for presurgical language mapping is easy to implement, allowing the identification of functional brain language network with a greater sensitivity than task‐based fMRI, at the cost of some precautions and a lower specificity. Further study is required to compare both the sensitivity and the specificity of the two methods and to evaluate the clinical value of rsfMRI as an alternative tool for the presurgical identification of brain language areas.
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures in pediatric population: A review
Authors: Operto Francesca Felicia , Coppola Giangennaro , Mazza Roberta , Pastorino Grazia Maria Giovanna , Campanozzi Stella , Margari Lucia , Roccella Michele , Marotta Rosa , Carotenuto Marco
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are observable abrupt paroxysmal changes in behavior or consciousness that resemble epileptic seizures, but without concurrent electroencephalographic abnormalities.

Methods

In this manuscript, we reviewed literature concerning pediatric PNES and focused on those articles published in the last 10 years, in order to try to understand what the state of the art is at the moment, particularly as regards relationship and differential diagnosis with epilepsy.

Results

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures have been extensively described in literature mainly in adults and less frequently in children. Despite the potential negative impact of a misdiagnosis (unnecessary investigations and antiepileptic drugs, structured pathological behavioral patterns), in literature there is little information regarding the real prevalence, clinical features, treatment, and outcome of PNES in children and adolescents.

Conclusion

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures are common but frequently missed entity in pediatric population. Diagnosis could be difficult, especially in those children who have both epileptic and nonepileptic seizures; video EEG and home video can help clinicians in diagnosis. More studies are needed to better classify PNES in children and facilitate diagnosis and treatment.
From clinical appearance to accurate management in acute ischemic stroke patients: With the guidance of innovative traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis
Authors: Song Juexian , Xu Cuiyu , Zhang Jing , Gao Li
Published: October 2019

Objective

To investigate the correlation between simplified classification and laboratory indicators in patients with acute ischemic stroke, also provide accurate evidences for simplified classification and guide clinical interventions and treatment.

Methods

Two hundred patients with acute ischemic stroke were classified into four types according to the characteristics of Traditional Chinese Medicine syndrome: phlegm‐heat syndrome, phlegm‐dampness syndrome, qi deficiency syndrome, and yin deficiency syndrome. The differences between the types of syndromes and the correlation between laboratory indicators and syndromes were analyzed.

Results

Among the 200 patients with acute ischemic stroke, there were significant differences in the level of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL‐C) (p < .05) between patients with phlegm‐heat syndrome and other three types. There were significant differences in the levels of homocysteine (HCY) and fibrinogen (Fib) between patients with yin deficiency syndrome and other three types (p < .05). In addition, there were statistically significant differences in blood glucose (Glu), glycosylated hemoglobin (HBA1c), and total cholesterol (CHO) between phlegm‐heat syndrome and qi deficiency syndrome (p < .05). There were significant differences in the levels of Glu, HBA1c, D‐2 polymer (D‐D), and C‐reactive protein (CRP)s between patients with phlegm‐heat syndrome and phlegm‐dampness syndrome (p < .05). There were statistically significant differences in the levels of CRP and urea nitrogen between patients with yin deficiency syndrome and phlegm‐dampness syndrome and qi deficiency syndrome (p < .05).

Conclusions

The four‐type simplified classification of Integrated TCM and Western medicine in acute ischemic stroke has specific laboratory data to support. Simplified classification with TCM treatment and intervention of different patients improves the survival and treatment, which is an innovative, easy‐to‐master clinical diagnosis and treatment model.
Clinical applications of transcranial magnetic stimulation in bipolar disorder
Authors: Gold Alexandra K. , Ornelas Ana Claudia , Cirillo Patricia , Caldieraro Marco Antonio , Nardi Antonio Egidio , Nierenberg Andrew A. , Kinrys Gustavo
Published: October 2019

Background

Many patients with bipolar disorder (BD) fail to experience benefit following traditional pharmacotherapy, necessitating alternative treatment options that will enable such patients to achieve remission. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a relatively new, noninvasive neuromodulation technique that involves the application of magnetic pulses on hyperactive or hypoactive cortical brain areas. We evaluated the existing literature on TMS as a treatment for BD across varied mood states.

Methods

We searched PubMed up to October 2018 for original data articles published in English that evaluated outcomes in a bipolar sample across depressive, manic, mixed, and maintenance phases of BD.

Results

Clinical trials of TMS for BD particularly suggest the potential of repetitive TMS for reducing depressive symptoms. Studies of TMS for mania have yielded more mixed findings. Few studies have evaluated TMS in other phases of the bipolar illness. TMS is generally associated with mild side effects though, in a few studies, it has been shown to contribute to a manic switch in previously depressed bipolar patients.

Conclusions

Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a promising approach for treating patients with BD who have failed to respond to pharmacological or psychosocial treatment. Future research should more clearly elucidate which TMS protocols may be most effective for a given bipolar patient.
Association between Lys198Asn polymorphism of endothelin‐1 gene and ischemic stroke: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Nepal Gaurav , Ojha Rajeev , Dulal Hari Prasad , Yadav Binod Kumar
Published: October 2019

Background

Endothelin (ET)‐1 is a potent vasoconstrictor peptide produced by endothelial cells and associated with vascular dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Lys198Asn is a single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of gene encoding ET‐1 (EDN1). It is hypothesized that it might have a role in altering ET‐1 and ultimately leading to vascular dysfunction and ischemic stroke. We therefore conducted a meta‐analysis to investigate the association between Lys198Asn polymorphism of EDN1 gene and susceptibility of ischemic stroke.

Methods

This meta‐analysis was conducted according to the guidance of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, Web of Science, J‐STAGE, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) for relevant studies. The association between Lys198Asn polymorphism and ischemic stroke susceptibility was evaluated by calculating the pooled ORs and 95% CIs.

Results

Our analysis included 1,291 cases and 2,513 controls. Meta‐analysis established a significant association between Lys198Asn SNP of EDN1 gene and ischemic stroke when assuming either recessive model (OR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.02–1.65; p = .03; I2 = 41%) or dominant model (OR: 1.48; 95% CI: 1.24–1.76; p < .001; I2 = 61%). There was no evidence of publication bias in either of the recessive model (Egger test: p = .23; Begg test: p = .85) or dominant model (Egger test: p = .79; Begg test: p = .85). A subgroup analysis based on subtypes of ischemic stroke showed that Lys198Asn SNP was only associated with large vessel infarction but not with lacunar infarction caused by small vessel disease. A subgroup analysis based on ethnicity revealed that the Lys198Asn polymorphism of the EDN1 gene was associated with ischemic stroke only in Caucasians.

Conclusions

The present meta‐analysis suggests that Lys198Asn polymorphism of EDN1 gene is associated with an increased risk for ischemic stroke.
Extragonadal germ cell tumors: Not just a matter of location. A review about clinical, molecular and pathological features
Authors: Ronchi Andrea , Cozzolino Immacolata , Montella Marco , Panarese Iacopo , Zito Marino Federica , Rossetti Sabrina , Chieffi Paolo , Accardo Marina , Facchini Gaetano , Franco Renato
Published: October 2019

Extragonadal germ cell tumors (EGGCTs) are uncommon neoplasms, which arise in anatomical locations other than gonads. The pathogenesis of these neoplasms is still poorly understood and it is a matter of debate if they really represent extragondal primary neoplasms or rather extragondal metastasis from occult gonadal neoplasms. The actual observations suggest that EGGCTs represent a unique entity, so their biology and behavior are substantially different from gonadal counterparts. The diagnosis of EGGCTs is often challenging, and differential diagnosis is particularly wide. Nevertheless, a correct diagnosis is essential for the correct management of the patient. We summarize the state of art about EGGCTs, with particular emphasis on diagnosis and prognosis.
Chemotherapeutic perfusion of portal vein after tumor thrombectomy and hepatectomy benefits patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: A propensity score‐matched survival analysis
Authors: Gao Yang , Wang Peng‐Xiang , Cheng Jian‐Wen , Sun Yun‐Fan , Hu Bo , Guo Wei , Zhou Kai‐Qian , Yin Yue , Li Yuan‐Cheng , Wang Jian , Huang Jun‐Feng , Qiu Shuang‐Jian , Zhou Jian , Fan Jia , Yang Xin‐Rong
Published: October 2019

Background

Portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) is a common complication in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), signaling dismal outcomes. This study was conducted to evaluate the survival benefit of postoperative portal vein perfusion chemotherapy (PVC) in patients with HCC and PVTT.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted in 401 consecutive patients with HCC and PVTT who underwent hepatic resection between January 2009 and December 2015 and 67 patients received adjuvant postoperative PVC. A propensity score matching (PSM) was used to match patients with and without PVC at a ratio of 1:1.

Results

After PSM, the median time to recurrence (TTR) and overall survival (OS) were significantly longer in PVC group compared with control group (12.3 vs 5.8 months, P = .001; 19.0 vs 13.4 months, P = .037; respectively). At 1, 2, 3, and 5 years, the cumulative recurrence rates in PVC group were 48.1%, 86.5%, 92.3% ,96.2%, respectively, with OS rates of 63.8%, 37.9%, 24.4%, 18.3%, respectively; whereas cumulative recurrence rates of 76.6%, 91.5%, 94.3%, and 97.2%, respectively and OS rates of 55.4%, 23.0%, 12.4%, and 12.4%, respectively were recorded for the control group. In multivariate analysis, postoperative PVC emerged as a significant predictor for TTR (hazard ratio [HR], 0.523; P = .001) and OS (HR, 0.591; P = .010). PVC could reduce early recurrence (≤1 year) rate after surgical resection (40.3% vs 64.2%, P = .006) and clinical outcomes were further enhanced by adding sorafenib to postoperative PVC.

Conclusions

Compared with surgical resection alone, postoperative adjuvant PVC treatment boosts survival and reduces early tumor recurrences in patients surgically treated for HCC and PVTT.
A five‐miRNA panel in plasma was identified for breast cancer diagnosis
Authors: Li Minghui , Zou Xuan , Xia Tiansong , Wang Tongshan , Liu Ping , Zhou Xin , Wang Shui , Zhu Wei
Published: October 2019

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers in females. Since early detection can bring prognosis benefit, discovery of novel noninvasive biomarkers for BC diagnosis is in urgent need. In this four‐phase study, we profiled miRNA expression in plasma samples from a total of 257 BC patients and 257 normal controls (NCs). Exiqon miRNA qPCR panel was used to select candidate miRNAs in the screening phase which were further analyzed using qRT‐PCR in the following training, testing and external validation phases. Finally, we identified five plasma miRNAs (let‐7b‐5p, miR‐122‐5p, miR‐146b‐5p, miR‐210‐3p and miR‐215‐5p) whose expression levels were significantly different between BC patients and NCs. A 5‐miRNA panel in plasma with high sensitivity and specificity was then constructed to detect BC. The areas under the receiver‐operating characteristic curves (AUCs) of the panel were 0.683, 0.966, 0.978 for the training, testing and external validation sets, respectively. Expression of the identified miRNAs was further analyzed among 32 pairs of BC tissue and the adjacent normal tissue samples as well as plasma‐derived exosome samples from 32 BC patients vs 32 NCs. Let‐7b‐5p was contrarily down‐regulated in BC tissue. In exosomes samples, only miR‐122‐5p was significantly up‐regulated as in plasma for BC patients. In conclusion, we identified a 5‐miRNA plasma panel (let‐7b‐5p, miR‐122‐5p, miR‐146b‐5p, miR‐210‐3p and miR‐215‐5p) that could serve as a promising biomarker for BC detection.
MIR155HG is a prognostic biomarker and associated with immune infiltration and immune checkpoint molecules expression in multiple cancers
Authors: Peng Lirong , Chen Zhanfei , Chen Yiyin , Wang Xiaoqian , Tang Nanhong
Published: October 2019

In recent years, immune checkpoint inhibitor has achieved remarkable success in multiple cancer treatment. However, how to pre‐judge which patients are suitable for immune checkpoint inhibitor is a difficult problem. We use the existing public bioinformatics database to comprehensively analyze the relationship between clinical data of various cancers with immune checkpoint blocking molecules and long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and try to find the potential predictive value of lncRNA for immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors. In this study, we found that: (a) high expression of lncRNA MIR155 host gene (MIR155HG) was closely related to better overall survival (OS) in cholangiocarcinoma (CHOL), lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), and skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM), and have better disease‐free survival (DFS) in CHOL. Meanwhile, the high level of MIR155HG was associated with poorer OS in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC), brain lower grade glioma (LGG), and uveal melanoma (UVM). (b) The expression of MIR155HG was significantly correlated with infiltrating levels of immune cells and immune molecules, especially with immune checkpoint molecules such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1), PD‐1 ligand 1 (PD‐L1), and cytotoxic T lymphocyte‐associated antigen 4 (CTLA4) in most kinds of cancers. (c) Detection of clinical CHOL and liver hepatocellular carcinoma tissues confirmed that there was a strong positive correlation between MIR155HG expression and the levels of CTLA4 and PD‐L1. MIR155 host gene can be used as a prognostic marker in multiple cancers, and of great value in predicting the curative effect of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy owing to it is closely related with immune cells infiltration and immune checkpoint molecules expression.
A Method for High‐Throughput Measurements of Viscosity in Sub‐micrometer‐Sized Membrane Systems
Authors: Chwastek Grzegorz , Petrov Eugene P. , Sáenz James Peter
Published: October 2019

To unravel the underlying principles of membrane adaptation in small systems like bacterial cells, robust approaches to characterize membrane fluidity are needed. Currently available relevant methods require advanced instrumentation and are not suitable for high‐throughput settings needed to elucidate the biochemical pathways involved in adaptation. We developed a fast, robust, and financially accessible quantitative method to measure the microviscosity of lipid membranes in bulk suspension using a commercially available plate reader. Our approach, which is suitable for high‐throughput screening, is based on the simultaneous measurements of absorbance and fluorescence emission of a viscosity‐sensitive fluorescent dye, 9‐(2,2‐dicyanovinyl)julolidine (DCVJ), incorporated into a lipid membrane. We validated our method using artificial membranes with various lipid compositions over a range of temperatures and observed values that were in good agreement with previously published results. Using our approach, we were able to detect a lipid phase transition in the ruminant pathogen Mycoplasma mycoides.
Oligonucleotides Containing Phenoxazine Artificial Nucleobases: Triplex‐Forming Abilities and Fluorescence Properties
Authors: Fujii Akane , Nakagawa Osamu , Kishimoto Yuki , Nakatsuji Yusuke , Nozaki Natsumi , Obika Satoshi
Published: October 2019

1,3‐Diaza‐2‐oxophenoxazine (“phenoxazine”), a tricyclic cytosine analogue, can strongly bind to guanine moieties and improve π–π stacking effects with adjacent bases in a duplex. Phenoxazine has been widely used for improving duplex‐forming abilities. In this study, we have investigated whether phenoxazine and its analogue, 1,3,9‐triaza‐2‐oxophenoxazine (9‐TAP), could improve triplex‐forming abilities. A triplex‐forming oligonucleotide (TFO) incorporating a phenoxazine component was found to show considerably decreased binding affinity with homopurine/homopyrimidine double‐stranded DNA, so the phenoxazine system was considered not to function as either a protonated cytosine or thymine analogue. Alternatively, a 9‐TAP‐containing artificial nucleobase developed by us earlier as a new phenoxazine analogue functioned as a thymine analogue with respect to AT base pairs in a parallel triplex DNA motif. The fluorescence of the 9‐TAP moiety was maintained even in triplex (9‐TAP:AT) formation, so 9‐TAP might be useful as an imaging tool for various oligonucleotide nanotechnologies requiring triplex formation.
Outcomes of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy patients undergoing alcohol septal ablation with a standard 3 mL dose of ethanol: Focus on long‐term safety
Authors: Kashtanov Maksim G. , Rzhannikova Anastasiya D. , Chernyshev Sergey D. , Kardapoltsev Lev V. , Idov Eduard M. , Berdnikov Sergey V. , Kochmasheva Valentina V.
Published: October 2019

Objectives

The objective of this research was to assess the long‐term results of alcohol septal ablation in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM), with all of them receiving a standard 3 mL ethanol dose.

Background

Generally, ethanol (0.5–3 mL) is infused depending on a septal artery width or interventricular septum (IVS) thickness during alcohol septal ablation. We injected 3 mL of ethanol irrespective of IVS thickness or perforator width in all cases.

Methods

Between 2000 and 2017, 150 HOCM patients (78 males, 72 females) underwent alcohol septal ablation procedures. In all cases we intentionally used the constant dose of ethanol (3 mL). The median of age was 52 (interquartile range: 41–60) years.

Results

The median of follow‐up was 71 (interquartile range: 36–110) months. Hospital mortality was 0.67% (one patient died of sepsis). Perioperative high‐grade atrioventricular blocks required permanent pacemaker implantations—18 (12%). Long‐term survival rates were as follows: 95.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 92.7–97.5%), 85.8% (95% CI: 83.7–87.0%), and 81.7% (95% CI: 79.7–83.7%) at 5‐, 10‐, and 15‐year follow‐up, respectively. One‐sample log‐rank test revealed no significant differences in 15‐year survival rates between the alcohol septal ablation cohort and age‐ and sex‐matched Russian population.

Conclusions

Alcohol septal ablation with the standard (3 mL) ethanol dose is safe and efficient. Survival rates after alcohol septal ablation are comparable with those in age‐ and sex‐matched general Russian population.
Chondroblastic osteosarcoma—A case report and review of literature
Authors: Mamachan Priya , Dang Vishal , Bharadwaj Neelkamal Sharda , DeSilva Natalia , Kant Priyanka
Published: October 2019

Key Clinical Message

Osteosarcoma is the most common malignancy of mesenchymal cells mostly originating within long bones, but rarely in the jaws. This report illustrates a case of chondroblastic osteosarcoma in the region of anterior maxilla in a 58‐year‐old male patient previously treated for ossifying fibroma of the same site.
Alcoholic hepatitis masquerading as tumor infiltration: Reversibility after abstinence
Authors: Gluskin Adam B. , Dueker Jeffrey M. , El Hag Mohamed , Puthenpurayil Kurian J. , Bataller Ramon
Published: October 2019

A subset of patients with alcoholic hepatitis present with atypical imaging resembling hepatic tumor infiltration. Our case involves a patient who was initially thought to have multiple large hepatic metastases, ultimately found to have alcoholic hepatitis. It is essential to ask about alcohol use when clinical suspicion is high.
Spark Plasma Sintering Treatment for Introduction of Oxygen Vacancy in Pt Dispersed SrTiO3 for Increasing Photocatalytic Water Splitting Activity
Authors: Kim Yoonyoung , Watanabe Motonori , Takagaki Atsushi , Matsuda Junko , Ishihara Tatsumi
Published: October 2019

Spark plasma sintering (SPS) treatment was studied for Pt dispersed SrTiO3 as photocatalytic water splitting catalyst. The oxygen vacancy was introduced by SPS treatment and it was found that H2 formation rate was increased by SPS treatment since large amount of oxygen vacancy was introduced. H2 formation rate became the highest (6.15 mmol h−1 g−1) at 2.5 wt% Pt dispersed on SrTiO3 and this H2 formation rate was almost double of Pt loaded SrTiO3 and O2 formation rate was also much increased (5.66 mmol h−1 g−1). ESR measurement suggests that amount of Ti3+ was intense after SPS treatment with 2.5 wt% Pt. Therefore, it seems that the oxygen vacancy introduced by SPS treatment effectively worked for charge separation and photocatalytic activity of SrTiO3 to water splitting was increased.
Current Status of Self‐Supported Catalysts for Robust and Efficient Water Splitting for Commercial Electrolyzer
Authors: Kwon Jiseok , Han HyukSu , Choi Seungun , Park Keemin , Jo Seonghan , Paik Ungyu , Song Taeseup
Published: October 2019

The development of cost effective and high‐performance electrocatalyst is challenging but essential for realizing industrial hydrogen production by electolyzer. Electrocatalysts for water splitting must have active catalytic performance as well as high stability in strong alkaline or acidic media to be used in commercial elecrolyzer. Transition metal based electrocatalysts are considered as highly promising candidates due to their excellent oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance and stability with low materials cost. Recently, binder free self‐supported electrocatalysts based on transition metals have emerged as state‐of‐the‐art catalytic electrodes due to their high activity and robustness. These properties are attributed to lack of catalyst powder aggregation and a strong synergetic effect between the electrode surface and catalyst. In this mini review, recent development in self‐supported electrocatalysts for OER, HER and also bifunctional OER & HER are reviewed in terms of superior activity and robust stability. Material design strategies, structural and compositional properties, and catalytic performance of recently reported self‐supported electrocatalysts are summarized. Finally, overview of recent studies, challenges and prospects related to self‐supported electrocatalysts are discussed.
Fluorescence and Morphology of Self‐Assembled Nucleobases and Their Diphenylalanine Hybrid Aggregates
Authors: Avitabile Concetta , Diaferia Carlo , Roviello Valentina , Altamura Davide , Giannini Cinzia , Vitagliano Luigi , Accardo Antonella , Romanelli Alessandra
Published: October 2019

Studies carried out in recent decades have revealed that the ability to self‐assemble is a widespread property among biomolecules. Small nucleic acid moieties or very short peptides are able to generate intricate assemblies endowed with remarkable structural and spectroscopic properties. Herein, the structural/spectroscopic characterization of aggregates formed by nucleobases and peptide nucleic acid (PNA)–peptide conjugates are reported. At high concentration, all studied nucleobases form aggregates characterized by previously unreported fluorescence properties. The conjugation of these bases, as PNA derivatives, to the dipeptide Phe–Phe leads to the formation of novel hybrid assemblies, which are characterized by an amyloid‐like association of the monomers. Although these compounds share the same basic cross‐β motif, the nature and number of PNA units have an important impact on both the level of structural order and the intrinsic fluorescence of the self‐assembled nanostructure.
Mesoporous Cu‐Ce‐Ox Solid Solutions from Spray Pyrolysis for Superior Low‐Temperature CO Oxidation
Authors: Li Rengui , Yang Yixuan , Sun Na , Kuai Long
Published: October 2019

Development of Pt group metal‐free catalysts for low‐temperature CO oxidation remains critical. In this work, active and stable mesoporous Cu‐Ce‐Ox solid solutions are prepared by using spray pyrolysis. The specific surface areas and pore volumes reach as high as 170 m2 g−1 and 0.24 cm3 g−1, respectively. The results of CO oxidation study suggest that (1) the catalyst obtained by spray pyrolysis possesses much higher activity than those made by co‐precipitation, sol‐gel, and hydrothermal methods; (2) the optimal Cu0.2‐Ce0.8‐Ox solid solution presents a reactivity over 28 times that of both single‐component CuO and CeO2 at 70 °C. Based on the study of pure‐phase Cu‐Ce‐Ox solid solutions by selective leaching of segregated CuOx species, the active center for CO oxidation is confirmed as the bimetallic Cu‐Ce‐O site, whereas the individual CuOx particles not only act as spectators but also block the active Cu‐Ce‐O sites. A low apparent activation energy of approximately 48 kJ mol−1 is detected for CO oxidation at the Cu‐Ce‐O site, making Cu‐Ce‐Ox solid solutions able to present high activity at low temperature. Furthermore, the Cu‐Ce‐Ox catalysts exhibit excellent stability and thermal tolerance toward CO oxidation.
Bis‐tridentate IrIII Phosphors Bearing Two Fused Five‐Six‐Membered Metallacycles: A Strategy to Improved Photostability of Blue Emitters
Authors: Hsu Ling‐Yang , Liang Qiumin , Wang Zhiheng , Kuo Hsin‐Hung , Tai Wun‐Shan , Su Shi‐Jian , Zhou Xiuwen , Yuan Yi , Chi Yun
Published: October 2019

Iridium complexes bearing chelating cyclometalates are popular choices as dopant emitters in the fabrication of organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). In this contribution, we report a series of blue‐emitting, bis‐tridentate IrIII complexes bearing chelates with two fused five‐six‐membered metallacycles, which are in sharp contrast to the traditional designs of tridentate chelates that form the alternative, fused five‐five metallacycles. Five IrIII complexes, Px‐21–23, Cz‐4, and Cz‐5, have been synthesized that contain a coordinated dicarbene pincer chelate incorporating a methylene spacer and a dianionic chromophoric chelate possessing either a phenoxy or carbazolyl appendage to tune the coordination arrangement. All these tridentate chelates afford peripheral ligand–metal–ligand bite angles of 166–170°, which are larger than the typical bite angle of 153–155° observed for their five‐five‐coordinated tridentate counterparts, thereby leading to reduced geometrical distortion in the octahedral frameworks. Photophysical measurements and TD‐DFT studies verified the inherent transition characteristics that give rise to high emission efficiency, and photodegradation experiments confirmed the improved stability in comparison with the benchmark fac‐[Ir(ppy)3] in degassed toluene at room temperature. Phosphorescent OLED devices were also fabricated, among which the carbazolyl‐functionalized emitter Cz‐5 exhibited the best performance among all the studied bis‐tridentate phosphors, showing a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQEmax) of 18.7 % and CIEx,y coordinates of (0.145, 0.218), with a slightly reduced EQE of 13.7 % at 100 cd m−2 due to efficiency roll‐off.
Atomically Dispersed Pt on Screw‐like Pd/Au Core‐shell Nanowires for Enhanced Electrocatalysis
Authors: Chao Tingting , Zhang Yida , Hu Yanmin , Zheng Xusheng , Qu Yunteng , Xu Quan , Hong Xun
Published: October 2019

Engineering noble metal nanostructures at the atomic level can significantly optimize their electrocatalytic performance and remarkably reduce their usage. We report the synthesis of atomically dispersed Pt on screw‐like Pd/Au nanowires by using ultrafine Pd nanowires as seeds. Au can selectively grow on the surface of Pd nanowires by an island growth pattern to fabricate surface defect sites to load atomically dispersed Pt, which can be confirmed by X‐ray absorption fine structure measurements and aberration corrected HRTEM images. The nanowires with 2.74 at % Pt exhibit superior HER properties in acidic solution with an overpotential of 20.6 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and enhanced alkaline ORR performance with a mass activity over 15 times greater than the commercial platinum/carbon (Pt/C) catalysts.
Backbone Reactivity of Lithium β‐Diketiminate (NacNac) Complexes with CO2, tBuNCO and iPrNCO
Authors: Gauld Richard M. , McLellan Ross , Kennedy Alan R. , Barker Jim , Reid Jacqueline , Mulvey Robert E.
Published: October 2019

Though alkali metal NacNac (β‐diketiminate) complexes have been utilised in synthesis as NacNac‐transfer agents, studies of them in their own right with small molecules are exceptionally rare. Here, the lithium compound of the common 2,6‐diisopropylphenyl‐β‐methyldiketiminate [NacNac(Dipp, Me)] ligand is investigated with carbon dioxide and isocyanates. In all four cases reaction occurs at the backbone γ‐C atom of the NacNac ligand, which redistributes electronically into a diimine. Insertion of CO2 gives an eight‐atom carboxylate (Li2O4C2) ring at the γ‐C site in a dimer. Insertion of tBuNCO gives a secondary amide at the γ‐C site in a monomer with TMEDA chelating lithium. Double insertion of tBuNCO and (adventitious) oxygen gives a dimer with a (LiO)2 central core involving the latter source. Insertion of less bulky (iPrNCO) gives a dimer with dimerisation through the C=O bonds of the emergent secondary amide function.
Exfoliation and Sensitization of 2D Carbon Nitride for Photoelectrochemical Biosensing under Red Light
Authors: Zhao Lufang , Ji Jingjing , Shen Yanfei , Wu Kaiqing , Zhao Tingting , Yang Hong , Lv Yanqin , Liu Songqin , Zhang Yuanjian
Published: October 2019

Two‐dimensional carbon nitride (CN) has drawn increasing attention as a conjugated metal‐free polymer for photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensing. However, CN only absorbs ultraviolet and very limited visible light (λ<460 nm), which poses potential risks for biomolecules and also cannot pass through tissue for in vivo detection. Herein, simultaneous exfoliation and functionalization of CN nanosheets (CNNS) with copper phthalocyanine (TsCuPc) simply by mechanical milling, thanks to the delicate π–π interaction between them, is reported. Moreover, due to energy‐level matching, an effective donor–acceptor (D‐A) interaction with much‐improved photocurrent under irradiation with red light (λ>630 nm) was observed for the as‐prepared CNNS‐TsCuPc. As an example, dopamine in blood was detected by using red light by a CNNS‐TsCuPc photoelectrode with uncompromised linear range and detection limit, as well high selectivity. As one of the few successful demonstrations of red‐light‐responsive PEC sensing systems, this work takes a first step toward future in vivo applications by enriching the optoelectronic properties of CN with task‐specific antenna molecules via D‐A interaction.
Formal Synthesis of Indolizidine and Quinolizidine Alkaloids from Vinyl Cyclic Carbonates
Authors: Cristòfol Àlex , Böhmer Christian , Kleij Arjan W.
Published: October 2019

Cyclic carbonates have long been considered relatively inert molecules acting as protecting groups in complex multistep synthetic routes. This study shows that a concise, yet modular synthesis of indolizidine and quinolizidine alkaloids can be developed from vinyl‐substituted cyclic carbonate (VCC) intermediates. Through a highly stereoselective palladium‐catalyzed allylic alkylation reaction, these alkaloid motifs can be assembled in four synthetic and only two column purification steps. The combined results help to further advance functionalized cyclic carbonates as useful and reactive intermediates in natural product synthesis.
Efficient Synthesis of Cyclic Sulfoximines from N‐Propargylsulfinamides through Sulfur–Carbon Bond Formation
Authors: Aota Yusuke , Maeda Yoshiaki , Kano Taichi , Maruoka Keiji
Published: October 2019

Cyclic sulfoximines were readily synthesized by the cyclization of N‐propargylsulfinamides without using expensive and toxic metal catalysts. This cyclization proceeded without loss of optical purity of chiral sulfinamides through the unusual sulfur–carbon bond formation promoted by an inexpensive inorganic base. This stereospecific cyclization offers a general approach to the asymmetric synthesis of chiral cyclic sulfoximines as an emerging heterocycle in medicinal chemistry.
Cardiovascular risk factors among Ghanaian patients with HIV: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Appiah Lambert T. , Sarfo Fred S. , Huffman Mark D. , Nguah Samuel B. , Stiles Jonathan K.
Published: October 2019

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) poses a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, data are limited on CVD risk burden among HIV patients in Ghana. We describe the age‐ and sex‐adjusted prevalence of CVD risk factors among HIV patients in Ghana.

Methods

From January 2013 to May 2014, we identified eligible HIV patients 18 years and older, as well as uninfected adult blood donors presenting to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital as controls. Using a standardized protocol, we collected demographic, clinical, laboratory, and electrocardiographic data. We created multivariable logistic regression models to compare the prevalence of abnormal risk factors between the two groups.

Results

We recruited 345 patients with HIV (n = 173 on HAART, n = 172 not on HAART) and 161 uninfected adult blood donors. Patients with HIV were older (mean [SD] age: 41 [11] vs 32 [11] years) and were more likely to be female (72% vs 28%) than blood donors. Among patients on HAART, median (interquartile range) treatment duration was 17 (4‐52) months. The prevalence of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes mellitus among HIV patients was 9%, 29%, and 5%, respectively, compared with 5%, 15%, and 0.6% among uninfected blood donors. Smoking was the least prevalent CVD risk factor (1%‐2%). After adjustment for age, sex, and body mass index, HIV patients had a 10‐fold higher odds of prevalent diabetes compared with controls, (adjusted OR = 10.3 [95% CI: 1.2, 86.7]).

Conclusion

CVD risk factors are common among HIV patients in Ghana, demonstrating the urgent need for creation and implementation of strategic CVD interventions.
Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease Type 2E/1F mutant neurofilament proteins assemble into neurofilaments
Authors: Stone Elizabeth J. , Uchida Atsuko , Brown Anthony
Published: October 2019

Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease Type 2E/1F (CMT2E/1F) is a peripheral neuropathy caused by mutations in neurofilament protein L (NFL), which is one of five neurofilament subunit proteins that co‐assemble to form neurofilaments in vivo. Prior studies on cultured cells have shown that CMT2E/1F mutations disrupt neurofilament assembly and lead to protein aggregation, suggesting a possible disease mechanism. However, electron microscopy of axons in peripheral nerve biopsies from patients has revealed accumulations of neurofilament polymers of normal appearance and no evidence of protein aggregates. To reconcile these observations, we reexamined the assembly of seven CMT2E/1F NFL mutants in cultured cells. None of the mutants assembled into homopolymers in SW13vim‐ cells, but P8R, P22S, L268/269P, and P440/441L mutant NFL assembled into heteropolymers in the presence of neurofilament protein M (NFM) alone, and N98S, Q332/333P, and E396/397K mutant NFL assembled in the presence of NFM and peripherin. P8R, P22S, N98S, L268/269P, E396/397K, and P440/441L mutant NFL co‐assembled into neurofilaments with endogenous NFL, NFM, and α‐internexin in cultured neurons, although the N98S and E396/397K mutants showed reduced filament incorporation, and the Q332/333P mutant showed limited incorporation. We conclude that all the mutants are capable of assembling into neurofilaments, but for some of the mutants this was dependent on the identity of the other neurofilament proteins available for co‐assembly, and most likely also their relative expression level. Thus, caution should be exercised when drawing conclusions about the assembly capacity of CMT2E/1F mutants based on transient transfections in cultured cells.