bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the optimal perioperative chemotherapy utilization rate for muscle‐invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Karim Safiya , Mackillop William J. , Brennan Kelly , Peng Yingwei , Siemens D. Robert , Krzyzanowska Monika K. , Booth Christopher M.
Published: August 2019

Background

Identifying optimal chemotherapy (CT) utilization rates can drive improvements in quality of care. We report a benchmarking approach to estimate the optimal rate of perioperative CT for muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).

Methods

The Ontario Cancer Registry and linked treated records were used to identify neoadjuvant and adjuvant CT rates among patients with MIBC during 2004‐2013. Monte Carlo simulation was used to estimate the proportion of observed rate variation that could be due to chance alone. The criterion‐based benchmarking approach was used to explore whether social and health‐system factors were associated with CT rates. We also used the “pared‐mean” approach to identify a benchmark population of hospitals with the highest treatment rates. Hospital CT rates were adjusted for case mix and simulated using a multi‐level multivariable model and a parametric bootstrapping approach.

Results

The study population included 2581 patients; perioperative CT was delivered to 31% (798/2581). Multivariate analysis showed that treatment was strongly associated with patient socioeconomic status and hospital teaching status. The benchmark rate was 36%. Unadjusted CT rates were significantly different across hospitals (range 0%‐52%, P < .001). The unadjusted benchmark perioperative CT rate was 45% (95% CI 40%‐50%); utilization rate in nonbenchmark hospitals was 28% (95% CI 26%‐30%). When using simulated CT rates adjusted for case mix, the benchmark CT rate was 41% (95% CI 35%‐47%) and the nonbenchmark hospital CT rate was 30% (95% CI 28%‐32%). The simulation analysis suggested that the observed component of variation (38%) was outside the 95% CI (22%‐28%) of what could be expected due to chance alone.

Conclusions

There is significant systematic variation in perioperative CT rates for MIBC across hospitals in routine practice. The benchmark perioperative CT rate for MIBC is 36%‐41%.
Subacute hemolytic anemia after transcatheter edge‐to‐edge mitral valve repair: A case report
Authors: Yokoyama Hiroaki , Mizuno Shingo , Saito Shigeru
Published: August 2019

The MitraClip System is extensively used in high‐risk patients with symptomatic severe mitral regurgitation (MR). Some studies have identified complications associated with use of the MitraClip. We report the case of a 91‐year‐old woman with severe MR of a prolapsed posterior commissure. Two weeks after using the MitraClip, she developed hemolytic anemia. She was conservatively treated with blood transfusion and medical treatment; fortunately, her general condition did not deteriorate during the follow‐up period. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of hemolytic anemia after MitraClip implantation.
Rh Catalyzed Selective Hydrogenation of Nitroarenes under Mild Conditions: Understanding the Functional Groups Attached to the Nanoparticles
Authors: Tian Haimeng , Zhou Junjie , Li Yunong , Wang Yiming , Liu Lei , Ai Yongjian , Hu Ze‐Nan , Li Jifan , Guo Rongxiu , Liu Zhibo , Sun Hong‐bin , Liang Qionglin
Published: August 2019

Modifying the surface of metal catalyst is a crucial subject for improving the heterogeneous metal catalysts. It is still a great challenge to understand the structure‐activity relationship (SAR) between the surface supporting groups and the metal particles. Herein, Rh NPs supported on the magnetic silica sphere with various functional groups (−NH2, −SH, −SO3H, −N=CH2, −Cl, −NHCOCH3 and −NHCH2Ph) have been prepared for catalytic hydrogenation of nitroarenes under atmospheric pressure at room temperature. We discover that the chemical state of Rh NPs depends on the supporting groups significantly. The electron‐donating functionalities can effectively elevate the Rh0/Rh3+ ratio, which increase the catalytic performance both in conversion and selectivity. The amino group decorated catalyst has such a good selectivity that no dechlorination reaction is observable in the hydrogenation of 2‐chloro‐3‐nitropyridine. What's more, by introducing magnetic Fe3O4 nuclei and mesoporous silica encapsulating layer, the catalyst can be recovered conveniently by an external magnet, and can be reused 10 cycles without any loss of activity.
How do cardiologists select patients for dual antiplatelet therapy continuation beyond 1 year after a myocardial infarction? Insights from the EYESHOT Post‐MI Study
Authors: De Luca Leonardo , Colivicchi Furio , Meessen Jennifer , Uguccioni Massimo , Piscione Federico , Bernabò Paola , Lardieri Gerardina , Granatelli Antonino , Gabrielli Domenico , Gulizia Michele M. ,   on behalf of the EYESHOT Post‐MI Investigators
Published: August 2019

Background

Current guidelines suggest to consider dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) continuation for longer than 12 months in selected patients with myocardial infarction (MI).

Hypothesis

We sought to assess the criteria used by cardiologists in daily practice to select patients with a history of MI eligible for DAPT continuation beyond 1 year.

Methods

We analyzed data from the EYESHOT Post‐MI, a prospective, observational, nationwide study aimed to evaluate the management of patients presenting to cardiologists 1 to 3 years from the last MI event.

Results

Out of the 1633 post‐MI patients enrolled in the study between March and December 2017, 557 (34.1%) were on DAPT at the time of enrolment, and 450 (27.6%) were prescribed DAPT after cardiologist assessment. At multivariate analyses, a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with multiple stents and the presence of peripheral artery disease (PAD) resulted as independent predictors of DAPT continuation, while atrial fibrillation was the only independent predictor of DAPT interruption for patients both at the second and the third year from MI at enrolment and the time of discharge/end of the visit.

Conclusions

Risk scores recommended by current guidelines for guiding decisions on DAPT duration are underused and misused in clinical practice. A PCI with multiple stents and a history of PAD resulted as the clinical variables more frequently associated with DAPT continuation beyond 1 year from the index MI.
Evaluating the “C” and “B” in brief cognitive behaviour therapy for distressing voices in routine clinical practice in an uncontrolled study
Authors: Paulik Georgie , Hayward Mark , Jones Anna‐Marie , Badcock Johanna C.
Published: August 2019

Brief and single‐symptom forms of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for distressing voices may increase access to evidence‐based psychological therapy and transcend diagnostic barriers. The current study evaluated the “C” and “B” in CBT for distressing voices in a transdiagnostic voices clinic. The B module (component of therapy) sought to enhance coping with voices, and the C module evaluated the accuracy of negative beliefs about the self and voices. The aims of the study were to investigate (a) whether modules B and/or C led to significant and clinically meaningful improvements on the primary outcome of voice‐related distress, and (b) if changes in beliefs about self and voices (proposed change mechanisms) underpinned changes in voice distress across module C. Each module consisted of four sessions, individually tailored yet manualized, and designed with ease of staff training and delivery in mind. Assessment measures were administered at baseline (T1), post‐module B (T2), and post‐module C (T3). The results (N = 62) showed statistically significant medium‐sized pre‐ and post‐effects for voice‐related distress from T1 to T2 and from T2 to T3, with large effects from T1 to T3. Just over half of the clients reported clinically meaningful improvements from T1 to T3. Neither beliefs about self nor voices were found to mediate improvements in voice distress during module C. The findings from this study suggest that both the B and C in CBT for voices can contribute to positive outcomes within routine clinical practice.
Diffusion Mapping of Eosinophil‐Activation State
Authors: Piasecka Justyna , Thornton Catherine A. , Rees Paul , Summers Huw D.
Published: August 2019

Eosinophils are granular leukocytes that play a role in mediating inflammatory responses linked to infection and allergic disease. Their activation during an immune response triggers spatial reorganization and eventual cargo release from intracellular granules. Understanding this process is important in diagnosing eosinophilic disorders and in assessing treatment efficacy; however, current protocols are limited to simply quantifying the number of eosinophils within a blood sample. Given that high optical absorption and scattering by the granular structure of these cells lead to marked image features, the physical changes that occur during activation should be trackable using image analysis. Here, we present a study in which imaging flow cytometry is used to quantify eosinophil activation state, based on the extraction of 85 distinct spatial features from dark‐field images formed by light scattered orthogonally to the illuminating beam. We apply diffusion mapping, a time inference method that orders cells on a trajectory based on similar image features. Analysis of exogenous cell activation using eotaxin and endogenous activation in donor samples with elevated eosinophil counts shows that cell position along the diffusion‐path line correlates with activation level (99% confidence level). Thus, the diffusion mapping provides an activation metric for each cell. Assessment of activated and control populations using both this spatial image‐based, activation score and the integrated side‐scatter intensity shows an improved Fisher discriminant ratio rd = 0.7 for the multivariate technique compared with an rd = 0.47 for the traditional whole‐cell scatter metric. © 2019 The Authors. Cytometry Part A published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
Artesunate suppresses inflammation and oxidative stress in a rat model of colorectal cancer
Authors: Kumar Vijay L. , Verma Sneh , Das Prasenjit
Published: August 2019

Anti‐inflammatory drugs are well known to reduce the risk of colon cancer and prophylactic use of such agents is gaining acceptance as a cancer prevention therapy. As artesunate, an antimalarial drug, has been shown to exhibit chemopreventive properties, the present study was carried out to evaluate its inhibitory effect on oxidative stress and inflammation in a rat model of colon carcinogenesis. A chemical carcinogen, 1,2‐dimethylhydrazine was injected twice at an interval of 1 week to induce preneoplastic lesions in the colon and the parameters indicating oxidative stress and inflammation were evaluated after 8 weeks. Artesunate (50 and 150 mg/kg) and aspirin (60 mg/kg) were administered orally throughout the study. Analysis of colon tissue revealed that both the drugs preserved histoarchitecture, inhibited cellular influx, decreased the levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers, downregulated cyclooxygenase‐2, inducible nitric oxide synthase, nuclear factor κB, and interleukin 1β in comparison to the experimental control. Suppression of oxidative stress and pro‐inflammatory signaling by both the drugs were found to contribute to inhibition of colon carcinogenesis. The protection afforded by these drugs was found to be comparable. Our study shows that like aspirin, use of artesunate could also reduce the risk of colon cancer and it has a potential for further evaluation for the treatment purpose.
Synthesis, biological evaluation, and molecular modeling of nitrile‐containing compounds: Exploring multiple activities as anti‐Alzheimer agents
Authors: Silva Daniel , Mendes Eduarda , Summers Eleanor J. , Neca Ana , Jacinto Ana C. , Reis Telma , Agostinho Paula , Bolea Irene , Jimeno M. Luisa , Mateus M. Luisa , Oliveira‐Campos Ana M. F. , Unzeta Mercedes , Marco‐Contelles José , Majekova Magdalena , Ramsay Rona R. , Carreiras M. Carmo
Published: August 2019

Based on the monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibition properties of aminoheterocycles with a carbonitrile group we have carried out a systematic exploration to discover new classes of carbonitriles endowed with dual MAO and AChE inhibitory activities, and Aβ anti‐aggregating properties. Eighty‐three nitrile‐containing compounds, 13 of which are new, were synthesized and evaluated. in vitro screening revealed that 31, a new compound, presented the best lead for trifunctional inhibition against MAO A (0.34 μM), MAO B (0.26 μM), and AChE (52 μM), while 32 exhibited a lead for selective MAO A (0.12 μM) inhibition coupled to AChE (48 μM) inhibition. Computational analysis revealed that the malononitrile group can find an advantageous position with the aromatic cleft and FAD of MAO A or MAO B. However, the total binding energy can be handicapped by an internal penalty caused by twisting of the ligand molecule and subsequent disruption of the conjugation (32 in MAO B compared to the conjugated 31). Conjugation is also important for AChE as well as the hydrophilic character of malononitrile that allows this group to be in close contact with the aqueous environment as seen for 83. Although the effect of 31 and 32 against Aβ1–42, was very weak, the effect of 63 and 65, and of the new compound 75, indicated that these compounds were able to disaggregate Aβ1–42 fibrils. The most effective was 63, a (phenylhydrazinylidene)propanedinitrile derivative that also inhibited MAO A (1.65 μM), making it a potential lead for Alzheimer's disease application.
Thermal sensitivity as a quality control attribute for biotherapeutics: The L‐asparaginase case
Authors: Yao Han , Wynendaele Evelien , De Spiegeleer Bart
Published: August 2019

Thermal sensitivity, as a practical measure of thermostability, is an interesting quality attribute that can be used in the quality control (QC) release of biopharmaceuticals. This article investigates circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy and nano‐differential scanning fluorimetry (nano‐DSF) to evaluate the thermal stability of E.coli L‐asparaginase (L‐ASNase) for QC purposes. In CD, molar ellipticity as a function of temperature (from 20 to 80°C) was measured at 222 nm. Different L‐ASNase samples dissolved in different diluents were investigated by determining the melting temperature (Tm) from the first derivative curve as well as the slope of the fitted sigmoidal function of the temperature gradient CD data. The obtained Tm values could be correlated with the L‐ASNase sample origin as well as with the pH of the diluent. The Tm values obtained from the CD data were moreover consistent with the Tm values determined by nano‐DSF, confirming their reliability. Next to the Tm value, also the slope of the fitted sigmoidal CD‐function was able to differentiate different L‐ASNase samples, including unstressed from stressed protein. By using both the Tm and the curve slope, the thermal stability of L‐ASNase was investigated, demonstrating and recommending the use of this heat‐stress characteristic as a QC quality attribute of proteins, which can be applied to detect substandard and falsified proteins.
Surface water storage characteristics of main herbaceous species in semiarid Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Xiong Peifeng , Chen Zhifei , Yang Quan , Zhou Junjie , Zhang He , Wang Zhi , Xu Bingcheng
Published: August 2019

Plant surface water storage greatly affects rainfall interception in water‐limited environments. The storage characteristics of 55 common herbaceous species and their relationships with plant morphology, biomass‐related traits, and leaf wettability were examined using artificial wetting method in semiarid Loess Plateau. Results indicated that plant mass storage ranged from 0.12–1.26 g g−1, and Glycyrrhiza uralensis and Leymus secalinus had the highest and lowest values, respectively. Leaf storage ratio ranged from 40.2–93.2%, with the highest value in G. uralensis and the lowest in Chenopodium album. Fifty‐two species had higher storage capacities in leaves than that in stems. Gramineous and leguminous species had relatively lower mass storage and leaf storage ratio than compositae and rosaceae. Plant and leaf mass storage were negatively correlated with leaf adaxial/abaxial contact angles, and stem mass storage was negatively correlated with plant height. Storage capacities were closely related to morphological and biomass‐related traits, and leaf area was a better predictor of plant and leaf storage capacities, and stem fresh weight was a better predictor at the stem level. Path analysis revealed that leaf area and adaxial contact angle were two independent variables directly affecting plant and leaf storage capacities. Their ratio (i.e., wettability index) had higher correlations with storage capacities than other single trait and multiple regression models of these traits. Our results implied that high proportions of gramineous and leguminous species in grassland community would favour reducing interception loss, and wettability index can be an effective indicator for evaluating rainfall interception and vegetation hydrological benefits.
Trait probability density (TPD): measuring functional diversity across scales based on TPD with R
Authors: Carmona Carlos P. , de Bello Francesco , Mason Norman W. H. , Lepš Jan
Published: August 2019

Functional diversity (FD) has the potential to address many ecological questions, from impacts of global change on biodiversity to ecological restoration. There are several methods estimating the different components of FD. However, most of these methods can only be computed at limited spatial scales and cannot account for intraspecific trait variability (ITV), despite its significant contribution to FD. Trait probability density (TPD) functions (which explicitly account for ITV) reflect the probabilistic nature of niches. By doing so, the TPD approach reconciles existing methods for estimating FD within a unifying framework, allowing FD to be partitioned seamlessly across multiple scales (from individuals to species, and from local to global scales), and accounting for ITV. We present methods to estimate TPD functions at different spatial scales and probabilistic implementations of several FD concepts, including the primary components of FD (functional richness, evenness, and divergence), functional redundancy, functional rarity, and solutions to decompose beta FD into nested and unique components. The TPD framework has the potential to unify and expand analyses of functional ecology across scales, capturing the probabilistic and multidimensional nature of FD. The R package TPD (https://CRAN.R-project.org/package=TPD) will allow users to achieve more comparative results across regions and case studies.
Poor nutrition as a potential cause of divergent tree growth near the Arctic treeline in northern Alaska
Authors: Ellison Sarah B. Z. , Sullivan Patrick F. , Cahoon Sean M. P. , Hewitt Rebecca E.
Published: August 2019

Trees growing near the Arctic treeline have long been used to reconstruct past climates. However, recent studies have shown deterioration of historically strong positive correlations between air temperature and tree growth (known as “divergence”). Divergence has important implications for confidence in paleoclimate reconstructions and ecosystem–atmosphere carbon exchange. Studies in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska showed that white spruce in the west increased growth in response to late 20th century warming, whereas those in the east failed to show a growth increase. In an earlier study across four watersheds in the Brooks Range, we tested and rejected the hypothesis that divergence in the easternmost watershed reflects moisture limitation of growth. Here, using 16 sites distributed across the same four watersheds, we tested an alternative hypothesis, that greater nutrient limitation in the east may have impeded positive growth responses to warming. Climate comparison across the four Brooks Range study watersheds revealed that, although the easternmost watershed generally had a drier growing‐season climate, the most consistent difference was that winter air temperature and both winter and summer soil temperatures were much colder in the central and eastern watersheds. Soil nutrient availability, foliar nutrient concentrations, and tree growth were all generally lower in the central and eastern than in the western watersheds. Foliar phosphorus concentration was the best predictor of spatial variation in branch extension growth—a finding that is somewhat inconsistent with the theory that forest productivity on young, glacially derived soils should be strongly nitrogen limited. Experimental fertilization yielded the greatest growth increase in the eastern, an intermediate response in the central, and the smallest growth increase in the western watershed, generally mirroring trends in soil temperature, soil nutrient availability, foliar nutrient concentrations, and growth of control trees. Our results confirm that growth in the easternmost watershed is more nutrient limited and suggest that phosphorus limitation may be at least as important as nitrogen limitation of growth. We hypothesize that cold soil effects on tree access to nutrients might explain divergence in the eastern Brooks Range and elsewhere near the Arctic treeline, particularly in areas with cold winters and widespread permafrost.
Circulating dipeptidyl peptidase 3 is a myocardial depressant factor: dipeptidyl peptidase 3 inhibition rapidly and sustainably improves haemodynamics
Authors: Deniau Benjamin , Rehfeld Linda , Santos Karine , Dienelt Anke , Azibani Feriel , Sadoune Malha , Kounde Paul R. , Samuel Jane L. , Tolpannen Heli , Lassus Johan , Harjola Veli‐Pekka , Vodovar Nicolas , Bergmann Andreas , Hartmann Oliver , Mebazaa Alexandre , Blet Alice
Published: August 2019

Aims

Acute heart failure is a high mortality disease and its pathophysiology is not completely understood. Dipeptidyl peptidase 3 (DPP3) is a cytosolic enzyme involved in angiotensin II and enkephalins cleavage. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of circulating DPP3 (cDPP3) levels and mortality in cardiogenic shock patients and to determine the effects of high cDPP3 on organ function in a heart failure (HF) model in mice.

Methods and results

cDPP3 was measured in 174 patients in cardiogenic shock and high cDPP3 levels were associated with an increased short‐term mortality risk (standardized hazard ratio: 1.4 (1.1–1.8)) and severe organ dysfunction. Additionally, a rapid decrease in cDPP3 in cardiogenic shock patients within 24 h of admission was associated with a favourable outcome. This study showed that injection of DPP3 induced myocardial depression (−10 ± 2% of shortening fraction) and impaired kidney haemodynamics (+0.30 ± 0.02 of renal resistive index) in healthy mice. cDPP3 inhibition by Procizumab, a specific antibody directed against cDPP3, promptly normalized cardiac function and kidney haemodynamics in an acute heart failure mouse model, with a marked reduction in oxidative stress and inflammatory signalling.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated cDPP3 is a newly discovered myocardial depressant factor, the levels of which at admission are associated with mortality in severe HF patients. Furthermore, inhibition of cDPP3 by Procizumab improved haemodynamics in a mouse model of HF. Our results suggest that DPP3 could be a new biomarker and biotarget for severe HF.
Validation of the HFA‐PEFF score for the diagnosis of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Barandiarán Aizpurua Arantxa , Sanders‐van Wijk Sandra , Brunner‐La Rocca Hans‐Peter , Henkens Michiel , Heymans Stephane , Beussink‐Nelson Lauren , Shah Sanjiv J. , van Empel Vanessa P.M.
Published: August 2019

Aims

Diagnosing heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is challenging. The newly proposed HFA‐PEFF algorithm entails a stepwise approach. Step 1, typically performed in the ambulatory setting, establishes a pre‐test likelihood. The second step calculates a score based on echocardiography and natriuretic peptides. The aim of this study is to validate the diagnostic value and establish the clinical impact of the second step of the HFA‐PEFF score.

Methods and results

The second step of the HFA‐PEFF score was evaluated in two independent, prospective cohorts, i.e. the Maastricht cohort (228 HFpEF patients and 42 controls) and the Northwestern Chicago cohort (459 HFpEF patients). In Maastricht, the HFA‐PEFF score categorizes 11 (4%) of the total cohort with suspected HFpEF in the low‐likelihood (0–1 points) and 161 (60%) in the high‐likelihood category (5–6 points). A high HFA‐PEFF score can rule in HFpEF with high specificity (93%) and positive predictive value (98%). A low score can rule out HFpEF with a sensitivity of 99% and a negative predictive value of 73%. The diagnostic accuracy of the score is 0.90 (0.84–0.96), by the area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic curve. However, 98 (36%) are classified in the intermediate‐likelihood category, where additional testing is advised. The distribution of the score shows a similar pattern in the Northwestern (Chicago) and Maastricht HFpEF patients (53% vs. 65% high, 43% vs. 34% intermediate, 4.8% vs. 1.3% low).

Conclusion

This study validates and characterizes the HFA‐PEFF score in two independent, well phenotyped cohorts. We demonstrate that the HFA‐PEFF score is helpful in clinical practice for the diagnosis of HFpEF.
Cyclohexane‐1,3‐dione as a derivatizing agent for the analysis of aldehydes by micelar electrokinetic chromatography with diode array detection
Authors: Donegatti Tiago Augusto , Lobato Alnilan , Moreira Gonçalves Luís , Alves Pereira Elisabete
Published: August 2019

Aldehydes are important compounds in a large number of samples, especially food and beverages. In this work, for the first time, cyclohexane‐1,3‐dione (CHD) was used as a derivatizing reagent aiming aldehyde (formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, propionaldehyde, and valeraldehyde) analysis by MEKC‐DAD. The optimized separation of the derivates was performed using a voltage program (+20 kV, 0–15 min.; +23 kV, 15–17 min.) at a temperature of 26°C, and using as the running buffer a mixture containing 100 mmol/L of sodium dodecyl sulfate and 29 mmol/L of sodium tetraborate at pH 9.2, with maximum absorbance at 260 nm. CHD was compared with two other derivatizing agents: 3‐methyl‐2‐benzothiazolinone hydrazone and phenylhydrazine‐4‐sulfonic acid. The CHD‐aldehyde derivatives were also characterized by LC‐MS. The calibration curves for all aldehydes had r2 above 0.999 and LODs ranged from 0.01 to 0.7 mg/L. The optimized methodology was applied in sugar cane brandy (cachaça) samples successfully. CHD showed to be an alternative derivatization reagent due to its stability, aqueous solubility, high selectivity and sensitivity, reduced impurities, and simple preparation steps.
Parametric Study of CO2 Methanation for Synthetic Natural Gas Production
Authors: Jaffar Mohammad M. , Nahil Mohamad A. , Williams Paul T.
Published: August 2019

The production of methane by carbon dioxide hydrogenation through optimization of the operating parameters to enhance methane yield and carbon dioxide conversion in a two‐stage fixed bed reactor is investigated. The influence of temperature, gas hourly space velocity (GHSV), and H2:CO2 ratio on the production of methane is studied. In addition, different methanation catalysts in terms of metal promoters and support materials are investigated to maximize methane production. The results show that the maximum methane yield and maximum carbon dioxide conversion are obtained at a catalyst temperature of 360 °C with a H2:CO2 ratio of 4:1 and total GHSV of 6000 mL h−1 g−1catalyst and reactant GHSV of 3000 mL h−1 g−1catalyst. The optimum metal‐alumina catalyst investigated for CO2 conversion and methane yield is the 10 wt%‐Ni‐Al2O3 catalyst. However, reduction in the methane yield is observed with the addition of Fe and Co promoters because of catalyst sintering and nonuniform dispersion of metals on the support. Among the different catalyst support materials studied, i.e., Al2O3, SiO2 and MCM‐41, the highest catalytic activity is shown by the Al2O3 catalyst with 83 mol% CO2 conversion, producing 81 mol% CH4 with 98% CH4 selectivity.
Partitioned by process: Measuring post‐fire debris‐flow and rill erosion with Structure from Motion photogrammetry
Authors: Ellett Nicholas G. , Pierce Jennifer L. , Glenn Nancy F.
Published: August 2019

After wildfire, hillslope and channel erosion produce large amounts of sediment and can contribute significantly to long‐term erosion rates. However, pre‐erosion high‐resolution topographic data (e.g. lidar) is often not available and determining specific contributions from post‐fire hillslope and channel erosion is challenging. The impact of post‐fire erosion on landscape evolution is demonstrated with Structure from Motion (SfM) Multi‐View Stereo (MVS) photogrammetry in a 1 km2 Idaho Batholith catchment burned in the 2016 Pioneer Fire. We use SfM‐MVS to quantify post‐fire erosion without detailed pre‐erosion topography and hillslope transects to improve estimates of rill erosion at adequate spatial scales. Widespread rilling and channel erosion produced a runoff‐generated debris‐flow following modest precipitation in October 2016. We implemented unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)‐based SfM‐MVS to derive a 5 cm resolution digital elevation model (DEM) of the channel scoured by debris‐flow. In the absence of cm‐resolution pre‐erosion topography, a synthetic surface was defined by the debris‐flow scour's geomorphic signature and we used a DEM of Difference (DoD) to map and quantify channel erosion. We found 3467 ± 422 m3 was eroded by debris‐flow scour. Rill dimensions along hillslope transects and Monte Carlo simulation show rilling eroded ~1100 m3 of sediment and define a volume uncertainty of 29%. The total eroded volume (4600 ± 740 m3) we measured in our study catchment is partitioned into 75% channel erosion and 25% rill erosion, reinforcing the importance of catchment size on erosion process‐dominance. The deposit volume from the 2016 event was 5700 ± 1140 m3, indicating ~60% contribution from post‐fire channel erosion. Dating of charcoal fragments preserved in stratigraphy at the catchment outlet, and reconstructions of prior deposit volumes provide a record of Holocene fire‐related debris‐flows at this site; results suggest that episodic wildfire‐driven erosion (~6 mm/year) dominate millennial‐scale erosion (~5 mm/Ka) at this site. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Carbon dioxide to bio‐fuels by mixed and pure microbial cultures isolated from activated sludge: relative evaluation of CO2 fixation, biodiesel production, and thermodynamic analysis
Authors: Mishra Somesh , Raghuvanshi Smita , Gupta Suresh
Published: August 2019

In the present work, the CO2(g) bio‐mitigation potential (15% [v/v]) of a mixed microbial population, Enterobacter cloacae and Pseudomonas putida, is thermodynamically assessed and compared at different Fe(II) concentrations (energy source). CO2(g) removal efficiency values are evaluated on per‐day basis for all cultures and found maximum for the mixed microbial population. Approximate material balance and thermodynamic assessment of the CO2(g) bio‐mitigation studies have revealed that among all cultures, the mixed microbial population shows the highest actual CO2 utilization efficiency (R.R) of 57.67 (±0.04)%. Leachate (biomass + cell free supernatant) obtained from CO2 bio‐mitigation batch studies were analyzed using FTIR and gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy. The results obtained have shown the presence of fatty acids and hydrocarbons in considerable amounts. The fatty acids obtained from cultures have shown the presence of a carbon chain length in the range of C7–C25, which makes it a potential source of biodiesel. Biodiesel yields of 91.55%, 77.49%, and 38.69% were obtained for the mixed microbial population, E. cloacae and P. putida. The hydrocarbons obtained from all the microbial cultures were found to have a carbon chain length in the range of C9–C32 and comprised saturated and unsaturated groups, which make them comparable to light oil.

© 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sarcopenia, a strong determinant for prolonged feeding tube dependency after chemoradiotherapy for head and neck cancer
Authors: Karsten Rebecca T. , Al‐Mamgani Abrahim , Bril Sandra I. , Tjon‐A‐Joe Sheena , van der Molen Lisette , de Boer Jan P. , Hilgers Frans J. M. , Smeele Ludi E. , van den Brekel Michiel W. M. , Stuiver Martijn M.
Published: August 2019

Background

Sarcopenia might be a relevant lead for optimization of the condition of patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) before chemoradiotherapy (CRT) to prevent long‐term functional swallowing impairment, such as feeding tube dependency.

Methods

Regression analyses were performed to assess the association between skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), as a measure of sarcopenia, and prolonged (>90 days) feeding tube dependency in 128 patients with HNC treated with primary CRT.

Results

Sixty‐one patients (48%) became prolonged feeding tube‐dependent. Lower SMI increased the risk of prolonged feeding tube dependency in multivariable analysis (risk ratio 1.08; 95% confidence interval 1.02‐1.14, P = .01) adjusted for body mass index, abnormal diet, and socioeconomic status.

Conclusions

Sarcopenia contributes to the risk of prolonged feeding tube dependency of patients with HNC treated with primary CRT. As sarcopenia might be a modifiable factor prior to treatment, it should be explored as a target for pretreatment patients' condition.
Plasma clearance ofRASmutation under therapeutic pressure is a rare event in metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Moati Emilie , Blons Hélène , Taly Valerie , Garlan Fanny , Wang‐Renault Shu‐Fang , Pietrasz Daniel , Didelot Audrey , Garrigou Sonia , Saint Angélique , Pernot Simon , Taieb Julien , Laurent‐Puig Pierre , Zaanan Aziz
Published: August 2019

In metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) monitoring can be used to genotype tumors and track clonal evolution. We investigated the clearance ofRASmutated clones under chemotherapy pressure by ctDNA analysis in patients with aRASmutated mCRC. Patients with aRASmutated tumor included in the prospective PLACOL study were monitored for ctDNA. Analyses were based on optimized targeted next‐generation sequencing and/or droplet‐based digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR). For plasma samples without detectable mutations at progression disease, we tested the methylation status ofWIF1andNPYgenes using methylation‐ddPCR (met‐ddPCR) to validate the presence of ctDNA. Among the 36 patients with positive plasma samples forRASmutations at inclusion, 28 (77.8%) remainedRASpositive at disease progression and 8 (22.2%) became negative. Subsequent met‐ddPCR for methylated markers showed that only two out of the eight patients withRASnegative plasma had detectable ctDNA at progression. Therefore, only 2 samples among 36 were confirmed for clearance ofRASmutation in our series. In conclusion, this study suggests that the clearance ofRASmutations in patients treated by chemotherapy for aRASmutated mCRC is a rare event. Monitoring tumor mutations in plasma samples should be combined with a strict control of the presence of ctDNA. The therapeutic impacts ofRASclearance need to be further explored.
From presentation to paper: Gender disparities in oncological research
Authors: Dijksterhuis Willemieke P.M. , Stroes Charlotte I. , Tan Wan‐Ling , Ithimakin Suthinee , Calles Antonio , van Oijen Martijn G.H. , Verhoeven Rob H.A. , Barriuso Jorge , Oosting Sjoukje F. , Ivankovic Daniela Kolarevic , Furness Andrew J.S. , Bozovic‐Spasojevic Ivana , Gomez‐Roca Carlos , van Laarhoven Hanneke W.M.
Published: August 2019

Gender disparities in scientific publications have been identified in oncological research. Oral research presentations at major conferences enhance visibility of presenters. The share of women presenting at such podia is unknown. We aim to identify gender‐based differences in contributions to presentations at two major oncological conferences. Abstracts presented at plenary sessions of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meetings and European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congresses were collected. Trend analyses were used to analyze female contribution over time. The association between presenter's sex, study outcome (positive/negative) and journals' impact factors (IFs) of subsequently published papers was assessed using Chi‐square and Mann–Whitney U tests. Of 166 consecutive abstracts presented at ASCO in 2011–2018 (n = 34) and ESMO in 2008–2018 (n = 132), 21% had female presenters, all originating from Northern America (n = 17) or Europe (n = 18). The distribution of presenter's sex was similar over time (p = 0.70). Of 2,425 contributing authors to these presented abstracts, 28% were women. The proportion of female abstract authors increased over time (p < 0.05) and was higher in abstracts with female (34%) compared to male presenters (26%; p < 0.01). Presenter's sex was not associated with study outcome (p = 0.82). Median journals' IFs were lower in papers with a female first author (p < 0.05). In conclusion, there is a clear gender disparity in research presentations at two major oncological conferences, with 28% of authors and 21% of presenters of these studies being female. Lack of visibility of female presenters could impair acknowledgement for their research, opportunities in their academic career and even hamper heterogeneity in research.
Improvement of cell counting method for Neubauer counting chamber
Authors: Zhang Minghao , Gu Lingui , Zheng Peihua , Chen Zhixin , Dou Xinqi , Qin Qizhong , Cai Xiaozhong
Published: August 2019

Background

We compared the cell counting accuracy of the conventional method and the improved method by using Neubauer counting chamber.

Methods

In the improved method, all the border cells were counted and then divided by two; while, in the conventional method, only border cells on the two boundaries (top and left) were counted.

Results

About 55.814% of the samples showed more accurate results by improved counting method, about 38.372% had more accurate results by conventional counting method, and about 5.814% were counted with similar counting error by both methods. The improved method had significantly smaller counting error than conventional method (P < .05). The distribution ratio of the border cells was an independent factor for counting accuracy (P < .05).

Conclusion

Together, the improved counting method can reduce the counting error of the Neubauer counting chamber to some extent, assess the distributing uniformity of border cells, and help to eliminate the samples with large differences in distribution.
Of Maslow, motives, and managers: The hierarchy of needs in American business, 1960–1985
Authors: Lussier Kira
Published: August 2019

This paper examines the impact of psychologist Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs in American management. I trace how a roster of management experts translated the hierarchy of needs into management through case studies of job redesign programs at Texas Instruments and marketing firm Young & Rubicam's management training. The hierarchy of needs resonated with management, I argue, because it seemed to offer both a concrete guide for management, with practical implications for designing management training and work structures, alongside a broader social theory that purported to explain changing social values and economic circumstances in America. For the management theorists who invoked the hierarchy of needs, the corporation served as both the prime site for people to fulfill their higher psychological needs and the ideal site to study and cultivate motivation. This article contributes to histories of psychology that show how psychology became a prominent resource in American public life.
Clinicopathological evidence of hepatitis B virus infection in the development of gastric adenocarcinoma
Authors: Cui Hongxia , Jin Yizi , Chen Fang , Ni Hengli , Hu Caihong , Xu Yudong , Xuan He , Hu Duanmin , Deng Wei , Zhang Yongsheng , Liu Yao
Published: August 2019

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the infection‐related cancers. Helicobacter pylori and Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) were established risk factors for GC. Recently, there are several reports showing the inconsistent association between hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and the development of GC. To explore the relationship between HBV infection and the development of GC, we designed a meta‐analysis of previous epidemiological studies, a hospital‐based case‐control study, followed by an immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay of HBV‐exposed GC samples. We found that HBV infection was associated with an increased risk of GC based on the meta‐analysis. No significant association between HBV infection and GC was detected according to our hospital‐based case‐control study. Histological examination showed that the gastric epithelium positive for HBx demonstrated a higher nuclear‐cytoplasmic ratio compared to those HBx‐negative cells. HBx and HBcAg were expressed more in tumors than those in normal counterparts in HBV‐exposed subjects, and PD‐L1 was lower in GC tissues from HBV carriers than those in HBV clearances. In conclusion, HBV infection may contribute to a higher risk for GC based on the meta‐analysis and to the morphological atypia of gastric epithelium by the histological assessment, and GC patients among HBV carriers showed lower expression of PD‐L1 may lose the chance for immune checkpoint blockade therapy.
How have we, do we, and will we measure time perspective? A review of methodological and measurement issues
Authors: Mohammed Susan , Marhefka Jacqueline T.
Published: August 2019

Despite the demonstrated importance of time perspective on key outcomes, its growing popularity, and its wide reach in terms of samples and disciplines, the construct has been plagued with definitional and measurement problems since its inception. Given the historical and current confusion regarding both conceptualization and operationalization, the purpose of this article is to provide an overview of methodological and measurement issues related to time perspective. Clearly, definitional and measurement clarity are critical for the success of future research. Through integrating the fragmented and eclectic time perspective literature fraught with ambiguity, we help to clarify measurement options and their psychometric evidence for future researchers. Specifically, we provide an in‐depth comparison of four (and their offshoots) commonly used, scale‐based measures of time perspective with respect to their dimensional content, psychometric properties, and validation evidence. We end with recommendations for time perspective research.
Simvastatin Possesses Antitumor and Differentiation‐Promoting Properties That Affect Stromal Cells in Giant Cell Tumor of Bone
Authors: Lau Carol P. Y. , Fung Cathy S. H. , Wong Kwok Chuen , Wang Yu‐Hsuan , Huang Lin , Tsui Stephen K. W. , Lee Oscar K. , Kumta Shekhar M.
Published: August 2019

Giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) is a locally aggressive destructive bone lesion. The management of pulmonary metastasis and local recurrence after the surgical treatment of GCTB remains a challenge. Pathologically, stromal cells in GCTB are known as primary neoplastic cells and are recognized as incompletely differentiated preosteoblasts. Therefore, inducing GCTB stromal cells to differentiate into cells with a mature osteoblastic phenotype may stop tumor growth and recurrence. In this study, we aimed to investigate how simvastatin, a clinically approved and commonly used statin that has been known to promote the maturation of cells of the osteogenic lineage, affects GCTB stromal cells. We found that simvastatin effectively inhibited cell viability by suppressing proliferation and by inducing apoptosis in GCTB stromal cells. Moreover, simvastatin treatment upregulated the expression of genes related to osteogenic maturation, such as runt‐related transcription factor 2, osteopontin, and osteocalcin, and increased the mineralization of the extracellular matrix in GCTB stromal cells. Ingenuity pathway analysis was used to discover that the vitamin D receptor pathway was involved in the simvastatin‐induced osteogenic differentiation of GCTB stromal cells by upregulating the 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D metabolism. Taken together, this in vitro study demonstrates the antitumor and differentiation‐promoting effects of simvastatin on GCTB stromal cells and suggests the possibility of using simvastatin as an adjuvant therapy for GCTB. These findings support further clinical investigation of the efficacy of using simvastatin as an adjuvant therapy for GCTB to reduce recurrence and distant metastasis after surgical treatment. © 2019 Orthopedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:297‐310, 2020
Analysis of sorbitol content variation in wild and cultivated apples
Authors: Fang Ting , Cai Yaming , yang Qiurui , Ogutu Collins O , Liao Liao , Han Yuepeng
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Sorbitol is the major sugar alcohol in apple and its accumulation in fruit is associated with fruit sweetness. However, little is known about variation in sorbitol content in fruits of apple germplasm. In this study, we investigated sorbitol content in mature fruits of 243 apple cultivars and 20 wild relatives using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

RESULTS

Sorbitol accumulation showed a significant variation in apple germplasm. Overall, cultivated fruits had significantly lower content of sorbitol than wild fruits. Fruit sorbitol concentration was significantly correlated with fruit size and acidity that are extensively domesticated traits. Hence, the variation in sorbitol accumulation between cultivated and wild fruits may be the indirect result of fruit size and acidity selection during domestication. Moreover, sorbitol content was maintained at low levels throughout fruit development, with a dramatic decrease at the middle stage. The SDH1 gene was highly expressed throughout fruit development, and its expression showed a significant correlation with fruit sorbitol concentration, suggesting its potential role in apple fruit sorbitol accumulation.

CONCLUSIONS

The finding that there is a great variation in fruit sorbitol content among apple germplasm will be helpful for genetic improvement of fruit sorbitol content in apple breeding programs. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Qualitative and quantitative diagnosis of nitrogen nutrition of tea plants under field condition using hyperspectral imaging coupled with chemometrics
Authors: Wang Yu‐Jie , Li Tie‐Han , Jin Ge , Wei Yu‐Ming , Li Lu‐Qing , Kalkhajeh Yusef K , Ning Jing‐Ming , Zhang Zheng‐Zhu
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Rapid and accurate diagnosis of nitrogen (N) status in field crops is of great significance for site‐specific N fertilizer management. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of hyperspectral imaging coupled with chemometrics for the qualitative and quantitative diagnosis of N status in tea plants under field conditions.

RESULTS

Hyperspectral data from mature leaves of tea plants with different N application rates were preprocessed by standard normal variate (SNV). Partial least squares discriminative analysis (PLS‐DA) and least squares–support vector machines (LS‐SVM) were used for the classification of different N status. Furthermore, partial least squares regression (PLSR) was used for the prediction of N content. The results showed that the LS‐SVM model yielded better performance with correct classification rates of 82% and 92% in prediction sets for the diagnosis of different N application rates and N status, respectively. The PLSR model for leaf N content (LNC) showed excellent performance, with correlation coefficients of 0.924, root mean square error of 0.209, and residual predictive deviation of 2.686 in the prediction set. In addition, the important wavebands of the PLSR model were interpreted based on regression coefficients.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our results suggest that the hyperspectral imaging technique can be an effective and accurate tool for qualitative and quantitative diagnosis of N status in tea plants. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry