bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Robust PtNi Nanoframe/N‐Doped Graphene Aerogel Electrocatalyst with Both High Activity and Stability
Authors: Yang Jing , Hübner René , Zhang Jiangwei , Wan Hao , Zheng Yuanyuan , Wang Honglei , Qi Haoyuan , He Lanqi , Li Yi , Dubale Amare Aregahegn , Sun Yujing , Liu Yuting , Peng Daoling , Meng Yuezhong , Zheng Zhikun , Rossmeisl Jan , Liu Wei
Published: February 2021

Insufficient catalytic activity and stability and high cost are the barriers for Pt‐based electrocatalysts in wide practical applications. Herein, a hierarchically porous PtNi nanoframe/N‐doped graphene aerogel (PtNiNF‐NGA) electrocatalyst with outstanding performance toward methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) in acid electrolyte has been developed via facile tert‐butanol‐assisted structure reconfiguration. The ensemble of high‐alloying‐degree‐modulated electronic structure and correspondingly the optimum MOR reaction pathway, the structure superiorities of hierarchical porosity, thin edges, Pt‐rich corners, and the anchoring effect of the NGA, endow the PtNiNF‐NGA with both prominent electrocatalytic activity and stability. The mass and specific activity (1647 mA mgPt−1, 3.8 mA cm−2) of the PtNiNF‐NGA are 5.8 and 7.8 times higher than those of commercial Pt/C. It exhibits exceptional stability under a 5‐hour chronoamperometry test and 2200‐cycle cyclic voltammetry scanning.
Experimental and Computational Studies of the Iron‐Catalyzed Selective and Controllable Defluorosilylation of Unactivated Aliphatic gem‐Difluoroalkenes
Authors: Zhang Huan , Wang Enhui , Geng Shasha , Liu Zhengli , He Yun , Peng Qian , Feng Zhang
Published: February 2021

The first iron‐catalyzed defluorosilylation of unactivated gem‐difluoroalkenes was developed, delivering gem‐disilylated alkenes and (E)‐silylated alkenes with excellent efficiency. This protocol features good functional group compatibility and excellent regio‐ and stereoselectivity, enabling the late‐stage silylation of biologically relevant compounds, thus providing good opportunities for applications in medicinal chemistry. Preliminary mechanistic studies and DFT calculations reveal that a nucleophilic addition and elimination of the second C−F bond might be involved in the disilylation catalytic system, demonstrating unusual reactivity characteristics of iron catalysis.
Applications of ambient ionization mass spectrometry in 2020: An annual review
Authors: Rankin‐Turner Stephanie , Heaney Liam M.
Published: February 2021

Recent developments in mass spectrometry (MS) analyses have seen a concerted effort to reduce the complexity of analytical workflows through the simplification (or removal) of sample preparation and the shortening of run‐to‐run analysis times. Ambient ionization mass spectrometry (AIMS) is an exemplar MS‐based technology that has swiftly developed into a popular and powerful tool in analytical science. This increase in interest and demonstrable applications is down to its capacity to enable the rapid analysis of a diverse range of samples, typically in their native state or following a minimalistic sample preparation approach. The field of AIMS is constantly improving and expanding, with developments of powerful and novel techniques, improvements to existing instrumentation, and exciting new applications added with each year that passes. This annual review provides an overview of applications of AIMS techniques over the past year (2020), with a particular focus on the application of AIMS in a number of key fields of research including biomedical sciences, forensics and security, food sciences, the environment, and chemical synthesis. Novel ambient ionization techniques are introduced, including picolitre pressure‐probe electrospray ionization and fiber spray ionization, in addition to modifications and improvements to existing techniques such as hand‐held devices for ease of use, and USB‐powered ion sources for on‐site analysis. In all, the information provided in this review supports the view that AIMS has become a leading approach in MS‐based analyses and that improvements to existing methods, alongside the development of novel approaches, will continue across the foreseeable future.
Mass spectrometric identification and characterization of urinary metabolites of isopropylnorsynephrine for doping control purposes
Authors: Krug Oliver , Thomas Andreas , Thevis Mario
Published: February 2021

Isopropylnorsynephrine (isopropyloctopamine, deterenol, 4‐(1‐hydroxy‐2‐(isopropylamino)ethyl)phenol), a beta‐selective and direct‐acting adrenergic agonist, has been reported in the past as declared as well as non‐declared ingredient of dietary supplements. The proven biological activity and the structural similarity of isopropylnorsynephrine to substances classified as prohibited compounds according to the World Anti‐Doping Agency's (WADA's) regulations could necessitate the inclusion of this sympathomimetic amine into routine doping control analytical assays. Therefore, information on urinary metabolites is desirable in order to allow for an efficient implementation of target compounds into existing multi‐analyte testing procedures, enabling the unequivocal identification of the administration of isopropylnorsynephrine by an athlete. In a pilot study setting, urine samples were collected prior to and after the oral application of ca. 8.7 mg of isopropylnorsynephrine, which were subjected to liquid chromatography‐high resolution/high accuracy (tandem) mass spectrometry. The intact drug, hydroxylated and/or glucurono‐ or sulfo‐conjugated isopropylnorsynephrine were detected up to 48 h post‐administration, with isopropylnorsynephrine sulfate representing the most abundant urinary target analyte. No relevant amounts of the dealkylation product (octopamine) were observed, indicating that merely moderate adaptations of existing test methods (or data evaluation strategies) are required to include isporpoylnorsynephrine in antidoping analytics, if required.
Synthesis, structural elucidation, molecular modeling and antimicrobial studies of 6‐(2‐hydroxyphenylimine)‐2‐thioxotetrahydropyrimidin‐4(1H)‐one (L) Schiff base metal complexes
Authors: El‐Shwiniy Walaa H. , Ibrahim Asmaa G. , Sadeek Sadeek A. , Zordok Wael A.
Published: February 2021

Solid complexes of Schiff base (L) with Co (II), Ni (II), Zn (II), Zr (IV) and Hg (II) in acetone as a solvent were synthesised and characterised by elemental analysis, magnetic measurements, melting point, molar conductivity, FT‐IR, UV–Vis., 1HNMR, X‐ray diffractometer (XRD) and thermogravimetric analyses (TG and DTG). Elemental analysis is in satisfactory correlation with the proposed chemical formulae of the complexes. The estimated molar conductivity of the compounds in 1 × 10−3 M DMF solution indicates the electrolytic existence of the examinated complexes and reported as 1:2 electrolytes for Co (II), Ni (II), Zr (IV) and Hg (II) complexes and 1:1 electrolytes for Zn (II) complex. Spectral and analytical results indicate that L chelated with metal ions as bidenate through the oxygen atom of the carbonyl group and nitrogen atom of azomethine group for all complexes. The XRD patterns demonstrate the non‐crystalline nature (amorphous) of the compounds (1), (4) and (5), but the compounds L, (2) and (3) lie between the amorphous and the crystalline characters. TG/DTG showed the compounds are thermally stable at room temperature and decomposed by raising the temperature to 600°C. The kinetic and thermodynamic parameters such as E*, ΔH*, ΔS* and ΔG* were calculated by using coats‐Redfern and Horowitz‐Metzger methods at n = 1 and n ≠ 1. Calculated values indicate more orderly activated complex formation. The measurements of the molecular modeling using density functional theory (DFT) confirm the structural geometry of the complexes, and the data showed the complexes are soft with respect to L where η varied from 0.068 to 0.077 eV and σ ranges from 12.987 to 14.706 eV, while η and σ for L are 0.109 and 9.174 eV−1, respectively. Complexes were tested for their in vitro antimicrobial activity against certain gram negative and gram positive bacteria in addition to two fungi species. The findings showed a clear increase in the anti‐tuberculosis activity due to complexion.
Production of biodiesel from high free fatty acids content Jatropha curcas oil using environment affable K–Mg composite catalyst
Authors: Sahu Gajanan , Saha Sujan , Datta Sudipta , Chavan Prakash D. , Chauhan Vishal , Gupta Pavan K.
Published: February 2021

Worldwide chemical industries are concerned towards pollution‐free and green processes. In this regard, alternative energy resource having minimal pollutant and toxins emission would be preferred. Jatropha curcas (JCO) is one of the important and alternative feedstock for biodiesel production. In the present work, JCO with higher (5.5%) free fatty acid (FFA) was used for transesterification using K–Mg composite catalyst. It found that 1:2 ratio of K/Mg was the best combination for efficient conversion of JCO to corresponding methyl esters. Physico‐chemical characterization of this novel catalyst exhibited improved surface area with adequate porosity as well as basicity helping its exceptional catalytic activity. Under optimum condition, 99.5% conversion was achieved using 10:1 ratio of methanol to JCO for 3 h at 70°C using 6 wt% of catalyst. This catalyst was truly heterogeneous in nature and almost retained its activity for subsequent re‐using for next five batches. The developed catalyst is highly efficient and greener in terms of lesser leaching behaviour and retaining the basic catalytic sites in the course of transesterification. The fuel properties of the biodiesel are fully complied with ASTM protocols; thus, research findings are significant to fulfil the demand of biodiesel in present scenario.
Unsteady mixed convective flow of nanofluid with arbitrary‐shaped nanoparticles over a shrinking sheet
Authors: Ghosh Sudipta , Mukhopadhyay Swati
Published: February 2021

The present study describes the unsteady mixed convection nanofluid flow past a vertical shrinking porous surface in occurrence of slips and heat source/sink. Applying proper transformations, the foremost differential equations which are partial in nature are changed into non‐linear differential equations which are ordinary in nature. With the support of Runge–Kutta method, shooting technique is used to find out the numerical solutions of the system of equations stated above. The effects of diverse leading parameters like unsteady parameter, velocity slip parameter, suction/injection parameter, thermal slip parameter, and heat source/sink parameter are offered and explained physically. Also, the coefficient of skin friction and rates of surface heat and mass transport for a number of parameters are investigated numerically.
One‐step preparation of poly(NIPAM‐pyrrole) electroconductive composite hydrogel and its dielectric properties
Authors: Şarkaya Koray , Yildirim Mert , Alli Abdulkadir
Published: February 2021

Conductive polymers and hydrogels are two of the hot prospect polymer types that are used for new stimuli responsive materials. In this study, one‐step preparation of electroconductive composite hydrogels containing polypyrrole (PPy) and N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) using free radical polymerization technique was achieved with N,N‐methylenebisacrylamide as a crosslinker and ammonium peroxy disulphate (APS) as initiator, in mixture of water/isopropyl alcohol. The equilibrium swelling degree of the poly(NIPAM)‐pyrrole) electroconductive composite hydrogel was 9.88 g of H2O/g dry polymer. According to TGA results, the thermal stability of the prepared composite poly(NIPAM‐PPy) conductive hydrogel (700°C) hydrogel is higher than that of pure poly(NIPAM) hydrogel (600°C). Furthermore, prepared samples were characterized by FTIR, and SEM analyzes. Later, the samples were pressured into pellets so that electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements were taken between 10 and 10 MHz at room temperature. The dielectric constant value of composite poly(NIPAM‐PPy) hydrogel at 10 Hz is almost 10 times higher than that of poly(NIPAM) hydrogel. Both samples' real and imaginary parts of dielectric constant decreased with increased frequency. Samples exhibited non‐Debye relaxation since experimental data fit into dielectric model of Havriliak‐Negami. Moreover, low frequency data yielded d.c. conductivity of the pure and composite samples as 3.74 × 10−11 and 1.02 × 10−8 S/cm, respectively. Real part of impedance at low frequencies also points out ~103 times lower resistance values at 10 Hz for composite poly(NIPAM‐PPy) hydrogel. Therefore, EIS results support that electroconductive composite hydrogel fabrication was achieved using free radical polymerization technique.
New contribution on the distribution and ecology of Dendrophyllia ramea (Linnaeus, 1758): abundance hotspots off north‐eastern Sicilian waters
Authors: Salvati Eva , Giusti Michela , Canese Simonepietro , Esposito Valentina , Romeo Teresa , Andaloro Franco , Bo Marzia , Tunesi Leonardo
Published: February 2021

Dendrophyllia ramea is a poorly known arborescent scleractinian coral, whose worldwide distribution is limited to the southern part of the Mediterranean basin, and to the Atlantic Ocean between Macaronesia and Gulf of Cadiz. The geographical distribution and abundance of D. ramea were herein updated, considering a total of 19 records, seven of which have never previously been reported in scientific papers.

Between 2010 and 2017, five Remotely Operative Vehicle surveys carried out along the Sicilian coast recorded 89 colonies. No exhaustive data on density and ecology of this species have been published to date. Data for two areas off the north‐eastern Sicilian waters (Aeolian Island and Gulf of Patti) are reported, including the species’ bathymetric distribution, abundance, population density, colony morphometry, population size structure and surrounding habitat description.

Size structure and density of D. ramea populations were compared with lost fishing gear density. Around the Aeolian Islands, where little lost fishing gear was observed, the D. ramea population was denser compared with the populations at two sites within the Gulf of Patti, where a greater amount of lost fishing gear was observed. The analysis of D. ramea size classes (single corallite, 2–5 polyps, >5 polyps) at different sites showed that impact varied with fishing gear typology: while lines damage the branches of larger colonies, nets can completely remove them.

The limited distribution of D. ramea in some areas also makes this species very vulnerable to impacts such as changes in the chemical–physical characteristics and circulation of sea water. Dendrophyllia ramea is classified as ‘Vulnerable’ according to the Mediterranean IUCN Red List, and it is listed in the Barcelona Convention (Annex B). Data on the distribution of D. ramea allows us to review the species’ classification and propose that its status be changed to ‘Endangered’.
SM1997 downregulates mustard‐induced enzymes that disrupt corneal epithelial attachment
Authors: DeSantis‐Rodrigues Andrea , Hahn Rita A. , Zhou Peihong , Babin Michael , Svoboda Kathy K.H. , Chang Yoke‐Chen , Gerecke Donald R. , Gordon Marion K.
Published: February 2021

Amino‐Plex (SM1997) is a spray or liquid cosmeceutical that has been used for skin dryness, aging, or sun exposure. Its formulation includes electrolytes, trace minerals, amino acids, peptides, nucleosides and nucleotides, all substances that are <10 kDa. It is designed to increase oxygen levels in cells, improve glucose transport, stimulate ATP synthesis, and stimulate collagen formation, actions that can help facilitate repair of damaged cells. It also supports collagen synthesis and formation of healthy granulation tissue, accelerating reepithelization of damaged skin. Here, SM1997 has been tested as an agent to improve the healing of mustard injury to the cornea. The results indicate that SM1997 facilitates the retention of corneal epithelial attachment when applied to corneal organ cultures after nitrogen mustard exposure. In addition, it reduces the activation of enzymes that lead to epithelial‐stromal separation, namely, ADAM17 and MMP‐9. Therefore, SM1997 should be further investigated as a potential therapy sulfur mustard and nitrogen mustard exposure.
Synthesis, docking studies, and pharmacological evaluation of 2‐hydroxypropyl‐4‐arylpiperazine derivatives as serotoninergic ligands
Authors: Magli Elisa , Kędzierska Ewa , Kaczor Agnieszka A. , Bielenica Anna , Severino Beatrice , Gibuła‐Tarłowska Ewa , Kotlińska Jolanta H. , Corvino Angela , Sparaco Rosa , Esposito Giovanna , Albrizio Stefania , Perissutti Elisa , Frecentese Francesco , Leśniak Anna , Bujalska‐Zadrożny Magdalena , Struga Marta , Capasso Raffaele , Santagada Vincenzo , Caliendo Giuseppe , Fiorino Ferdinando
Published: February 2021

A new series of norbornene and exo‐N‐hydroxy‐7‐oxabicyclo[2.2.1]hept‐5‐ene‐2,3‐dicarboximide derivatives was prepared, and their affinities to the 5‐HT1A, 5‐HT2A, and 5‐HT2C receptors were evaluated and compared with a previously synthesized series of derivatives characterized by the same nuclei, to identify selective ligands for the subtype receptors. Arylpiperazines represent one of the most important classes of 5‐HT1AR ligands, and the research of new derivatives has been focused on the modification of one or more portions of this pharmacophore. The combination of structural elements (heterocyclic nucleus, hydroxyalkyl chain, and 4‐substituted piperazine), known to be critical for the affinity to 5‐HT1A receptors, and the proper selection of substituents resulted in compounds with high specificity and affinity toward serotoninergic receptors. The most active compounds were selected for further in vivo assays to determine their functional activity. Finally, to rationalize the obtained results, molecular docking studies were performed. The results of the pharmacological studies showed that 3e, 4j, and 4n were the most active and promising derivatives for the serotonin receptor considered in this study.
Ground‐penetrating radar analysis of the Drimolen early Pleistocene fossil‐bearing palaeocave, South Africa
Authors: Armstrong Brian J. , Edwards‐Baker Stephanie , Penzo‐Kajewski Paul , Herries Andy I. R.
Published: February 2021

The cave systems of the Malmani Dolomite, Gauteng, South Africa, have over the decades yielded numerous specimens of Pliocene to early Pleistocene hominin fossils which are critical for our understanding of human evolution. The geomorphological and geological context of these fossils is complex. An understanding of cave formational processes coupled with effective surface and subsurface mapping of different strata and soil depths has the potential to provide new insights. A technique that has not previously been employed to the fossil sites of South Africa is the use of ground‐penetrating radar (GPR). Applied in combination with ground‐truthing data from excavations and 3D scanning and photogrammetry the combined technique highlights the capacity for GPR to help characterise various deposits. Results indicate the potential of the method to identify new void spaces, depth of colluvium as well as mapping structurally important chert bedding. This paper focuses on the Paranthropus and early Homo‐bearing cave complex of Drimolen but highlights the potential for applying these methods throughout the region.
The LUX‐ZEPLIN dark matter experiment
Authors: Parveen Nishat ,   the LZ collaboration
Published: February 2021

Dark matter is one of the greatest mysteries of the Universe. The attributes of the dark matter particles, which make up about 86% of the mass of our Universe, are still obscure. LUX‐ZEPLIN (LZ) will be the most sensitive direct detection dark matter experiment to detect the faint interactions between the dark and ordinary matter. The LZ experiment employs the technology of a dual‐phase xenon time projection chamber (TPC) in combination with a novel active neutron veto to detect Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs), one of the propitious dark matter candidates. For a 1,000 live day run, the projected spin‐independent cross‐section sensitivity of LZ is 1.6 × 10−48 cm2 for a 40 GeV c−2 mass WIMP. LZ will also probe the sensitivity to neutrinoless double beta (0νββ) decay of 136Xe. For 1,000 live days, the median exclusion sensitivity to the half‐life of 0νββ decay of 136Xe is predicted to be 1.06 × 1026 years. The LZ experiment is currently under construction and it will start commissioning by the end of 2020.
Optimal surgical margin for penile‐sparing surgery in management of penile cancer—Is 2 cm really necessary?
Authors: Anderson Elliot , Yao Henry Han‐I , Chee Justin
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Classical teaching of a 2 cm macroscopic surgical margin for surgical treatment of primary penile cancer is overly aggressive. Contemporary evidence suggests narrow but clear margins have similar survival outcomes for localized disease. This study aims to determine the oncological outcome of using a risk‐adapted algorithm to selection of macroscopic surgical margin based on biopsy grade of disease: 5 mm margin for grade 1, 10 mm margin for grade 2, and 20 mm margin for grade 3.

Methods

This is a retrospective case series of patients who underwent penile‐sparing surgery for biopsy‐proven penile SCC by a single surgeon from May 2010 through to January 2019. Clinicopathological data were extracted from medical records. Primary outcome was the positive margin rate. Secondary outcomes were overall survival (OS), cancer‐specific survival (CSS), metastasis‐free survival (MFS), and local recurrence‐free survival (RFS). Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis was used to determine survival outcomes.

Results

A total of 21 patients were included in this study. The median age was 65. Pre‐operative biopsy grade was grade 1 in 19.1% of patients, grade 2 in 47.6%, and grade 3 in 33.3%. The median size of tumor on examination was 20 mm. Using a grade‐stratified algorithm for macroscopic surgical margin, only one patient (4.8%) had a positive margin. This patient had G1T3 disease and proceeded to have a total penectomy for oncological clearance. The median margin clearance was 7 mm. The 12‐month OS, CSS, MFS, and local RFS were 94.6%, 94.6%, 81.0%, and 92.3%, respectively.

Conclusion

This study suggests that using a grade‐stratified approach to aim for a narrower macroscopic surgical margin does not appear to significantly alter the oncological outcome, with a negative margin rate of 95.2% in our this series. This enables more men to be eligible for organ preserving surgery and thereby improve their quality of life in the urinary function and sexual function domain. Larger prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
Biomagnetic Priming—Possible Strategy to Revitalize Old Mustard Seeds
Authors: Jovičić‐Petrović Jelena , Karličić Vera , Petrović Ivana , Ćirković Saša , Ristić‐Djurović Jasna L. , Raičević Vera
Published: February 2021

Different priming methods were developed to improve seed germination and the early growth of seedlings. This study aimed to examine the combined effect of bacterial inoculation and static magnetic field on white mustard (Sinapis alba L.) germination. A plant growth‐promoting bacterial strain Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D5 ARV was used for biopriming. The static magnetic field of 90 mT was applied for 5 and 15 min. Analyses of abscisic acid, chlorophyll, anthocyanins, flavonoids content, nitrogen balance index, and bacterial indole‐3‐acetic acid were used to explain observed effects. Bacterial inoculation improved seed germination, whereas exposure to 90 mT for 15 min suppressed germination. Such an unfavorable effect was neutralized when the treatment with the static magnetic field was combined with bacterial inoculation. The highest germination percentage was a result of synergistic action of B. amyloliquefaciens D5 ARV and 15 min long exposure to 90 mT, which induced an increase of 53.20% in the number of germinated seeds. The static magnetic field induced the increase of bacterial indole‐3‐acetic acid production threefold times. Biomagnetic priming caused a metabolic shift from primary to secondary metabolism in the white mustard seedlings. An adequate combination of biological priming and static magnetic field treatment can be successfully used in old seed revitalization and germination improvements. © 2021 Bioelectromagnetics Society
Instandsetzung von chloridbelasteten Bauteilen durch Applikation einer Beschichtung
Authors: Dauberschmidt Christoph , Breit Wolfgang , Becker Felix , Celebi Ayhan
Published: February 2021

Die im Januar 2021 eingeführte Technische Regel des Deutschen Instituts für Bautechnik (DIBt) „Instandhaltung von Betonbauwerken“ (TR‐IH) ermöglicht zwei Verfahren zur Instandsetzung von chloridbelasteten Bauwerken durch Applikation eines Oberflächenschutzsystems bei einem (weitgehenden) Belassen der Chloride im Beton. Das Instandsetzungsverfahren 7.7 „Beschichten von chloridhaltigem Beton“ kann angewendet werden, wenn der Betonstahl noch passiv ist und, u. a., die in der Betondeckung befindliche Chloridfracht einen Abstand des kritischen Chloridgehalts vom Betonstahl von 10 mm sicherstellt. Durch Entwicklung einer geschlossenen Lösung der diffusionsgesteuerten Chloridumverteilung nach Aufbringen der Beschichtung auch bei wasserteilgesättigten Betonen und einer Parameterstudie konnte gezeigt werden, dass der maximal verbleibende Chloridgehalt in der Betondeckung 2,0 M.‐%/z betragen darf. Das Instandsetzungsverfahren 8.3 „Erhöhung des elektrischen Widerstands durch Beschichtung“ darf dagegen auch bei aktiver Bewehrungskorrosion angewendet werden. Dabei wurden durch umfangreiche Untersuchungen die in der TR‐IH genannten Anwendungsgrenzen weitgehend bestätigt und hinsichtlich der Betongüte und der Art des Oberflächenschutzsystems weiter zugeschärft. Letztlich ist das Verfahren nur bei Chloridgehalten unter 1,0 M.‐%/z auch nach Chloridumverteilung mit einem geringen Risiko anwendbar.
A novel prognostic nomogram for colorectal cancer liver metastasis patients with recurrence after hepatectomy
Authors: Liang Jie‐ying , Lin Hao‐cheng , Liu Jingwen , Wang De‐shen , Yuan Yun‐fei , Li Bin‐kui , Zheng Yun , Wu Xiao‐jun , Chen Gong , Wang Feng‐hua , Wang Zhi‐qiang , Pan Zhi‐zhong , Wan De‐sen , Xu Rui‐hua , Li Yu‐hong
Published: February 2021

Purpose

We aimed to construct a nomogram to predict personalized post‐recurrence survival (PRS) among colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM) patients with post‐hepatectomy recurrence.

Methods

Colorectal cancer liver metastasis patients who received initial hepatectomy and had subsequent recurrence between 2001 and 2019 in Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center from China were included in the study. Patients were randomly assigned to a training cohort and a validation cohort on a ratio of 2:1. Univariable analysis was first employed to select potential predictive factors for PRS. Then, the multivariable Cox regression model was applied to recognize independent prognostic factors. According to the model, a nomogram to predict PRS was established. The nomogram's predictive capacity was further assessed utilizing concordance index (C‐index) values, calibration plots, and Kaplan–Meier curves.

Results

About 376 patients were finally enrolled, with a 3‐year PRS rate of 37.3% and a 5‐year PRS rate of 24.6%. The following five independent predictors for PRS were determined to construct the nomogram: the largest size of liver metastases at initial hepatectomy, relapse‐free survival, CEA level at recurrence, recurrent sites, and treatment for recurrence. The nomogram displayed fairly good discrimination and calibration. The C‐index value was 0.742 for the training cohort and 0.773 for the validation cohort. Patients were grouped into three risk groups very well by the nomogram, with 5‐year PRS rates of 45.2%, 23.3%, and 9.0%, respectively (p < 0.001) in the training cohort and 36.0%, 9.2%, and 4.6%, respectively (p < 0.001) in the validation cohort.

Conclusion

A novel nomogram was built and validated to enable the prediction of personal PRS in CRLM patients with post‐hepatectomy recurrence. The nomogram may help physicians in decision making.
Disparities in colorectal cancer screening among breast and prostate cancer survivors
Authors: Dash Chiranjeev , Lu Jiachen , Parikh Vicky , Wathen Stacey , Shah Samay , Shah Chaudhari Ruchi , Adams‐Campbell Lucile
Published: February 2021

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is recommended as an integral part of cancer survivorship care. We compared the rates of CRC screening among breast and prostate cancer survivors by primary cancer type, patient, and geographic characteristics in a community‐based health‐care system with a mix of large and small metro urban areas.

Materials and Methods

Data for this retrospective study were abstracted from medical records of a multi‐specialty practice serving about 250,000 individuals in southern Maryland. Breast (N = 1056) and prostate (N = 891) cancer patients diagnosed prior to 2015 were followed up till June 2018. Screening colonoscopy within the last 10 years was considered to be guideline concordant. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the prevalence odds ratios of being concordant on CRC screening by age, gender, race, metro area type, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

Results

Overall 51% of survivors had undergone a screening colonoscopy. However, there was a difference in CRC screening rate between prostate (54%) and breast (44%) cancer survivors. Older age (≥65 years), being a breast cancer survivor compared to prostate cancer, and living in a large compared to small metropolitan area were associated with a lower probability of receiving CRC screening. Having hypertension was associated with higher likelihood of being current on colonoscopy screening guidelines among survivors; but diabetes and obesity were not associated with CRC screening.

Conclusions

Low levels of CRC screening utilization were found among breast and prostate cancer survivors in a single center in Southern Maryland. Gender, comorbidities, and residential factors were associated with receipt of CRC screening.
Effect of antitumor therapy on cancer patients infected by SARS‐CoV‐2: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Piao , Li Lingling , Wang Shennan , Liu Yu , Li Zhou , Xia Shu
Published: February 2021

Background

Cancer patients are at a high risk of being infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), and are more likely to develop severe illness and have higher mortality once infected. In the COVID‐19 pandemic, it is urgent to understand the effects of antitumor therapy on the prognosis of patients with COVID‐19.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, MedRxiv, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) until 21 June 2020. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were evaluated using a random effects model to analyze the effects of antitumor therapies on COVID‐19 patients.

Results

For cancer patients with COVID‐19, the death events related to antitumor treatment were higher than those with no antitumor treatment (OR = 1.55; 95% CI 1.07–2.25; p = 0.021). Compared with patients in the survival group, the non‐survival group showed no significant differences in patients who received antitumor therapy. Compared with patients in the non‐severe group, the severe group was more likely to receive antitumor therapy (OR = 1.50; 95% CI 1.02–2.19; p = 0.037) and there was a significant difference. The incidence of severe events was higher in the subgroup of chemotherapy (OR = 1.73; 95% CI 1.09–2.73).

Conclusion

The synthesized evidence suggests that cancer patients with COVID‐19 who received antitumor treatment shortly before symptom onset are more likely to experience severe symptoms and have high mortality. Receiving chemotherapy is an unfavorable factor for the prognosis of cancer patients with COVID‐19.
Circ‐UBAP2 functions as sponges of miR‐1205 and miR‐382 to promote glioma progression by modulating STC1 expression
Authors: Wang Jianxin , Li Tianxiao , Wang Bin
Published: February 2021

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) exert vital functions in glioma pathogenesis. CircRNA ubiquitin‐associated protein 2 (circ‐UBAP2, hsa_circ_0008344) has been illuminated as a tumor driver in glioma. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying the oncogenic regulation of circ‐UBAP2 in glioma are still undefined.

Methods

Circ‐UBAP2, miR‐1205, miR‐382, and GPRC5A were quantified using qRT‐PCR and western blot. Cell viability was detected using a CCK‐8 assay. Cell migration and invasion were measured using the would‐healing and transwell assays. Flow cytometry and colony formation assay were applied to evaluate cell apoptosis and colony formation, respectively. The xenograft model assays were used to examine the impact of circ‐UBAP2 on tumorigenic effect in vivo. Direct relationships among circ‐UBAP2, miR‐1205, miR‐382, and GPRC5A were confirmed using dual‐luciferase reporter assays.

Results

Circ‐UBAP2 expression was upregulated in glioma. The reduced level of circ‐UBAP2 hampered cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and enhanced apoptosis in vitro and weakened tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, circ‐UBAP2 directly bound to miR‐1205 and miR‐382. miR‐1205 and miR‐382 mediated the regulation of circ‐UBAP2 silencing on glioma cell behaviors. Moreover, GPRC5A was a functional target of miR‐1205 and miR‐382 in regulating glioma cell behaviors. Furthermore, circ‐UBAP2 mediated GPRC5A expression through miR‐1205 or miR‐382 in glioma cells.

Conclusion

Our current findings identified that circ‐UBAP2 silencing impeded glioma malignant progression partially by downregulating GPRC5A through targeting miR‐1205 and miR‐382.
Sex difference in long‐term clinical outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention: A propensity‐matched analysis of National Health Insurance data in Republic of Korea
Authors: Lee Seung‐Hwa , Choi Jungmin , Chang Yoo‐Jung , Shin Eun‐Seok , Choi Ki‐Hong , Lee Joo Myung , Park Taek Kyu , Yang Jeong Hoon , Song Young Bin , Hahn Joo‐Yong , Choi Seung‐Hyuk , Gwon Hyeon‐Cheol , Lee Sang‐Hoon , Choi Jin‐Ho
Published: February 2021

Objective

We investigated the gender difference in the 5‐year outcome after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using an unselected population data.

Background

Sex‐specific outcome after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is not consistent among studies.

Methods

A total of 48,783 patients were enrolled from a Korean nationwide cohort of PCI in year 2011. Outcomes adjusted with age and propensity for clinical characteristics were compared. Primary outcome was 5‐year cumulative incidence of all‐cause death. Nonfatal major adverse clinical event (MACE) consisting of revascularization, shock, or stroke was also assessed.

Results

In unadjusted analysis, women were older and had higher frequency of comorbidities including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes compared to men (p < .001, all). Women had higher 5‐year death risk than men (21.8 vs. 17.3%; hazard ratio [HR] 1.29, 95% confidential interval [CI] 1.23–1.34). In propensity score‐matched analysis (N = 28,924), women had lower 5‐year death risk (20.2 vs. 26.1%, HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.71–0.78). This lower death risk in women was consistent in subgroup analyses of age, risk factors, and clinical diagnosis including angina or acute myocardial infarction (p < .05, all).

Conclusions

Older age and more common comorbidities in women contributed to the apparent worse outcome after PCI in women. After adjusting these disadvantages, women had better outcome after PCI than men.
Effect of acid‐soluble wheat protein addition on the quality of bread prepared from molded frozen dough
Authors: Arai Chiaki , Hirose Rieko , Tozaki Mikiko , Nakamura Satoshi , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Suzuki Minoru , Miyamori Kiyokatsu , Noguchi Tomohiro , Takano Katsumi
Published: February 2021

Backgrounds and objectives

The structure of molded frozen dough cannot be reconstructed before baking; therefore, molding directly affects bread quality. The effect of the addition of acid‐soluble wheat protein (ASP), which consists mainly of gliadin, to molded frozen dough on molding conditions was examined.

Findings

Molded (unfermented) frozen dough samples were prepared from the same dough batch at different floor times (assumed potential time differences during dividing). Scanning electron microscopy revealed the presence of cracks in the microstructure of the molded dough. The cracks were caused by gluten damage owing to changes in rheological properties and appeared when the floor time was extended from 5 to 20 min. The addition of ASP maintained the uniformity of the gluten sheet regardless of floor time.

Conclusions

The added ASP increased shape uniformity of bread rolls prepared from molded frozen dough and also crumb grain structure and crust appearance uniformity.

Significance and novelty

The addition of ASP to molded frozen dough improved bread quality and prevented manufacturing problems that can occur during mechanized bread‐making. Therefore, we anticipate that ASP could also be added to pre‐fermented and par‐baked frozen doughs.
Unexpected urological presentation of COVID‐19 in a 41‐year‐old female: A case report
Authors: Haghighi Ramin , Hashemi Seyed Ahmad , Abaszade Ganji Ali , Haghighi Ashkan , Mollazadeh Samaneh
Published: February 2021

Hematuria and urinary discomfort may be the first manifestations of COVID‐19 infection. Nevertheless, more researches are needed to be done in this field to clarify the exact mechanism by which SARS‐CoV‐2 affects the urological system.
Serum progranulin level is a novel tool for monitoring disease activity of dermatomyositis with antimelanoma differentiation‐associated protein 5 antibodies
Authors: Fujii Asami , Mizutani Yuki H. , Kawamura Miho , Matusyama Kanako , Mizutani Yoko , Shu En , Seishima Mariko
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Dermatomyositis (DM) is an autoimmune disease that presents with a wide variety of clinical manifestations. Patients with DM or clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis (CADM) with antimelanoma differentiation‐associated protein 5 (anti‐MDA5) antibodies are frequently associated with interstitial pneumonia, especially rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease. Progranulin (PGRN) is an autocrine growth factor involved in inflammation. Elevated serum PGRN levels have been reported in the patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. However, they have not been precisely studied in DM/CADM. We assessed PGRN levels as a potential biomarker for DM/CADM with anti‐MDA5 antibodies.

Methods

Twenty‐four DM/CADM patients with anti‐MDA5 antibodies, 12 patients without anti‐MDA5 antibodies, and eight healthy volunteers were enrolled. We measured serum PGRN levels and compared them between the anti‐MDA5 antibody‐positive and antibody‐negative groups. They were also measured before and after the start of treatment in anti‐MDA5 antibody‐positive patients. We examined the correlations between serum PGRN levels and laboratory data such as serum KL‐6 and ferritin levels.

Results

Patients with DM/CADM, especially those with anti‐MDA5 antibodies, had significantly higher serum PGRN levels than healthy individuals. They decreased after the start of treatment. Serum PGRN levels were positively correlated with serum KL‐6 and ferritin levels, and anti‐MDA5 antibody titers.

Conclusions

This is the first study to show that PGRN levels were significantly elevated in the sera of DM/CADM patients, particularly in those with anti‐MDA5 antibodies. PGRN may be a useful biomarker of disease activity. However, further studies are required to reveal the mechanisms of PGRN in DM/CADM more precisely.
Lüften, wenn der Sensor anschlägt
Authors: Kegele Johann , Altmann Frank
Published: February 2021

Das Coronavirus verbreitet sich unter anderem durch Tröpfcheninfektionen und Aerosole. Dabei lässt sich eine mögliche Ansteckungsgefahr in Innenräumen durch rechtzeitiges, regelmäßiges und ausreichendes Lüften deutlich verringern. Was im Sommer noch angen
Eine einfache Sache, aber…
Authors: Aust Alexander
Published: February 2021

Die Überdruckkapselung ist eine effektive Methode, um elektrische Betriebsmittel bei der Verwendung in explosionsgefährdeten Bereichen zu schützen. Trotz der simplen Handhabung bedarf es vor dem Einsatz dieser Technik jedoch einer professionellen Planung.
IMPROVE, a community‐based exercise intervention versus support group to improve functional and health outcomes among older African American and Non‐Hispanic White breast cancer survivors from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds: Recruitment strategies and baseline characteristics
Authors: Owusu Cynthia , Nock Nora L. , Feuntes Vanessa , Margevicius Seunghee , Hergenroeder Paul , Austin Kristina , Bennet Elizabeth , Cerne Stephen , Moore Halle C. F. , Petkac Jean , Schluchter Mark , Schmitz Kathryn H. , Webb Hooper Monica , Coccia Sarah , Nagy Caitlin , Wimbley Leonard , Berger Nathan A.
Published: February 2021

Background

Behavioral intervention studies in older breast cancer survivors, particularly older African American (AA) and socioeconomic status–disadvantaged breast cancer survivors, are lacking. To inform future studies, the authors examined recruitment strategies in older breast cancer survivors who participated in an exercise intervention study.

Methods

IMPROVE is a randomized trial designed to evaluate a group‐based exercise intervention versus a support group (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT02763228). Participants were aged ≥65 years who had survived stage I through III breast cancer and were within 5 years of treatment completion. Participants were recruited through multiple approaches, including peripheral, linguistic, and constituent‐involving strategies that incorporated the identification of potentially eligible patients from 3 local hospitals and from State of Ohio registries and through direct clinician and community organization referrals.

Results

Between October 2016 and November 2019, 7487 patients were screened, 4790 were potentially eligible, and 213 were randomized into the study. The eligible:randomization rates were 4.4% overall and 84%, 8%, and 2% for recruitment using direct referrals, hospital registries, and state registries, respectively. The median age of the randomized cohort was 70 years (range, 65‐88 years) and included 44% AA and 44% socioeconomic status–disadvantaged breast cancer survivors. Compared with all registry‐eligible patients, directly referred‐eligible patients were more likely to be AA versus Non‐Hispanic White (41% vs 19%; P = .006), to be contacted successfully (100% vs 33%; P < .0001), and to accept study participation (88% vs 16%; P < .0001).

Conclusions

Direct referrals appeared to be the most efficient strategy for recruiting AA survivors. Behavioral intervention studies seeking to target older AA and socioeconomic status–disadvantaged breast cancer survivors should include strategies that foster direct referrals to study participation.
Production of Class II MHC Proteins in Lentiviral Vector‐Transduced HEK‐293T Cells for Tetramer Staining Reagents
Authors: Willis Richard A. , Ramachandiran Vasanthi , Shires John C. , Bai Ge , Jeter Kelly , Bell Donielle L. , Han Lixia , Kazarian Tamara , Ugwu Kyla C. , Laur Oskar , Contreras‐Alcantara Susana , Long Dale L. , Altman John D.
Published: February 2021

Class II major histocompatibility complex peptide (MHC‐IIp) multimers are precisely engineered reagents used to detect T cells specific for antigens from pathogens, tumors, and self‐proteins. While the related Class I MHC/peptide (MHC‐Ip) multimers are usually produced from subunits expressed in E. coli, most Class II MHC alleles cannot be produced in bacteria, and this has contributed to the perception that MHC‐IIp reagents are harder to produce. Herein, we present a robust constitutive expression system for soluble biotinylated MHC‐IIp proteins that uses stable lentiviral vector−transduced derivatives of HEK‐293T cells. The expression design includes allele‐specific peptide ligands tethered to the amino‐terminus of the MHC‐II β chain via a protease‐cleavable linker. Following cleavage of the linker, HLA‐DM is used to catalyze efficient peptide exchange, enabling high‐throughput production of many distinct MHC‐IIp complexes from a single production cell line. Peptide exchange is monitored using either of two label‐free methods, native isoelectric focusing gel electrophoresis or matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight (MALDI‐TOF) mass spectrometry of eluted peptides. Together, these methods produce MHC‐IIp complexes that are highly homogeneous and that form the basis for excellent MHC‐IIp multimer reagents. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

This article was corrected on 19 July 2022. See the end of the full text for details.

Basic Protocol 1: Lentivirus production and expression line creation

Support Protocol 1: Six‐well assay for estimation of production cell line yield

Support Protocol 2: Universal ELISA for quantifying proteins with fused leucine zippers and His‐tags

Basic Protocol 2: Cultures for production of Class II MHC proteins

Basic Protocol 3: Purification of Class II MHC proteins by anti‐leucine zipper affinity chromatography

Alternate Protocol 1: IMAC purification of His‐tagged Class II MHC

Support Protocol 3: Protein concentration measurements and adjustments

Support Protocol 4: Polishing purification by anion‐exchange chromatography

Support Protocol 5: Estimating biotinylation percentage by streptavidin precipitation

Basic Protocol 4: Peptide exchange

Basic Protocol 5: Analysis of peptide exchange by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry

Alternate Protocol 2: Native isoelectric focusing to validate MHC‐II peptide loading

Basic Protocol 6: Multimerization

Basic Protocol 7: Staining cells with Class II MHC tetramers
Peritoneal lavage cytology in the diagnosis of pelvic endometriosis
Authors: Eleutério José , das Chagas Medeiros Francisco
Published: February 2021

Background

We aimed to assess the sensibility, specificity, and predictive values of cytology of the fluid sediment in patients with pelvic endometriosis diagnosed based on laparoscopic‐guided biopsy.

Methods

Between January 2017 and September 2018, 71 specimens of peritoneal fluid collected by laparoscopy were evaluated. Fifty‐three patients were diagnosed laparoscopically and histologically with endometriosis, and 18 were considered controls (without suspicious endometriosis lesions). We calculated the sensitivity, specificity, the positive and negative predictive value, and the accuracy of endometrial‐like cells (ELC) and hemosiderin‐laden macrophages (HLM) in the fluid sediment.

Results

Of the 50 patients with endometriosis, 32 (64%) had HLM, 9 (18%) had ELC, and 7 (14%) had both elements. Of the 18 patients without endometriosis, 3 (16%) had HLM, 2 (11%) had ELC, and 1 (5%) had both ELC and HLM. The sensitivity of the cytology of peritoneal fluid sediment for the diagnosis of endometriosis, based on the presence of ELC, was 18%, the specificity was 83%, the positive predictive value was 82%, the negative predictive value was 28.7%, and the accuracy was 36.8%. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy based on the presence of HLM were 64%, 83%, 91%, 45.5%, and 69.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

The study of peritoneal fluids obtained laparoscopically from women undergoing evaluation for endometriosis may identify patients with the disease.