bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematical modeling of the impact of recirculation on exchange kinetics in tandem extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and therapeutic plasma exchange
Authors: Puelz Charles , Marinaro Jonathan L. , Park Yara A. , Griffith Boyce E. , Peskin Charles S. , Raval Jay S.
Published: October 2020

Vascular access connection configurations during tandem extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) may impact exchange kinetics. In these tandem procedures, typically the TPE inlet line is proximal to the TPE return line with respect to blood flow in the ECMO device, maximizing the opportunity for replacement fluid homogenization within the ECMO circuit. However, if TPE inlet and return line connections are switched, recirculation—a phenomenon in which replacement fluid leaving the TPE return line is prematurely drawn into the TPE inlet line prior to satisfactory homogenization within the ECMO circuit—will occur. Such recirculation could diminish TPE efficacy in patients on ECMO and mitigate therapeutic benefits. Using a mathematical model of recirculation in tandem ECMO and TPE, we demonstrate that the predicted impact of recirculation is negligible and vascular access connection positioning does not appear to be a point of clinical concern with regard to TPE kinetics.
A computational quest for the effects of fused rings on the stability of Hammick carbenes type remote N‐heterocyclic carbenes
Authors: Zhao Huan , Yang DongDong , Zhou Yuan , Fang Yu , Shi Min , Vessally Esmail
Published: October 2020

Substituent effects of fused six, and five‐membered aromatic rings are investigated on the stability, aromaticity, charge distribution, nucleophilic (N), and electrophilic (ω) characters of 20 singlet (s) and triplet (t) Hammick carbenes, at B3LYP/AUG‐cc‐pVTZ and M06‐2X/AUG‐cc‐pVTZ. Results display: (a) The higher thermodynamic and kinetic stability is revealed by carbenes situated between two nitrogen and/or two oxygen heteroatoms of two substituted rings, in a “W” arrangement toward the carbenic center; (b) Regardless of the arrangement, the order of thermodynamical and kinetic stabilization for fused rings is pyrrole > furan > thiophene > phosphole. (c) The substituted Hammick carbenes with two fused heterocyclics, in a given arrangement, show more stability than unsubstituted Hammick carbene; (d) While two five‐membered heterocyclic rings stabilize their corresponding substituted carbenes, two benzene rings destabilize Hammick carbene; (e) In all structures, s species emerges as ground state, exhibiting more stability than its t state; (f) The scrutinized s carbenes show higher N and lower ω than their corresponding t states.
Quercetin and vitamin E alleviate ovariectomy‐induced osteoporosis by modulating autophagy and apoptosis in rat bone cells
Authors: Vakili Sina , Zal Fatemeh , Mostafavi‐pour Zohreh , Savardashtaki Amir , Koohpeyma Farhad
Published: October 2020

Osteoporosis is the most prevalent metabolic bone disease and one of the most important postmenopausal consequences. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of quercetin (Q) and vitamin E (vitE) on ovariectomy‐induced osteoporosis. Animals were ovariectomized and treated with Q (15 mg/kg/day), vitE (60 mg/kg/day), estradiol (10 µg/kg/day), and Q (7.5 mg/kg/day) + vitE (30 mg/kg/day) for 10 weeks by gavage, and osteoporosis markers and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of autophagy and apoptosis‐related genes were analyzed in serum and tibia of rats. Data indicated that ovariectomy resulted in development of osteoporosis as demonstrated by reduction in serum calcium, bone weight, bone volume, trabeculae volume, and the total number of osteocytes and osteoblasts, and increase in the total number of osteoclasts and serum osteocalcin. Total mRNA expressions of LC3, beclin1, and caspase 3 were also increased and bcl2 expression was decreased in the tibia. By reversing these changes, treatment with Q and vitE markedly improved osteoporosis. In conclusion, Q, and to a lesser extent, vitE, prevented osteoporosis by regulating the total number of bone cells, maybe through regulating autophagy and apoptosis.
Effects of gestational and breastfeeding caffeine exposure in adenosine A1 agonist‐induced antinociception of infant rats
Authors: Torres Iraci L. S. , Assumpção José A. F. , de Souza Andressa , de Oliveira Carla , Adachi Lauren N. S. , Scarabelot Vanessa L. , Cioato Stefania G. , Rozisky Joanna R. , Caumo Wolnei , Silva Rosane S. , Battastini Ana Maria O. , Medeiros Liciane F.
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Caffeine is extensively consumed as a psychostimulant drug, acting on A1and A2Aadenosine receptors blockade. Chronic exposure to caffeine during gestation and breast‐feeding may be involved in infant rat's behavioral and biochemical alterations. Our goal was to evaluate the effect of chronic caffeine exposure during gestation and breast‐feeding in the functionality of adenosine A1receptors in infant rats at P14. NTPDase and 5'‐nucleotidase activities were also evaluated.

Methods

Mating of adult female Wistar rats was confirmed by presence of sperm in vaginal smears. Rats were divided into three groups on the first day of pregnancy: (1) control: tap water, (2) caffeine: 0.3 g/L until P14, and (3) washout caffeine: caffeine was changed to tap water at P7. Evaluation of nociceptive response was performed at P14 using hot plate (HP) and tail‐flick latency (TFL) tests. A1receptor involvement was assessed using caffeine agonist (CPA) and antagonist (DPCPX). Enzymatic activities assays were conducted in the spinal cord.

Results

Gestational and breastfeeding exposure to caffeine (caffeine and washout groups) did not induce significant alterations in thermal nociceptive thresholds (HP and TF tests). Both caffeine groups did not show analgesic response induced by CPA when compared to the control group at P14, indicating chronic exposure to caffeine in the aforementioned periods inhibits the antinociceptive effects of the systemic A1receptor agonist administration. No effect was observed upon ectonucleotidase activities.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that chronic caffeine exposure in gestational and breastfeeding alters A1‐mediated analgesic response in rats.
Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis using MethylCap-seq in canine high-grade B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Hsu Chia-Hsin , Tomiyasu Hirotaka , Lee Jih-Jong , Tung Chun-Wei , Liao Chi-Hsun , Chuang Cheng-Hsun , Huang Ling-Ya , Liao Kuang-Wen , Chou Chung-Hsi , Liao Albert T C , Lin Chen-Si
Published: October 2020

DNA methylation is a comprehensively studied epigenetic modification and plays crucial roles in cancer development. In the present study, MethylCap-seq was used to characterize the genome-wide DNA methylation patterns in canine high-grade B-cell lymphoma (cHGBL). Canine methylated DNA fragments were captured and the MEDIUM-HIGH and LOW fraction of methylated DNA was obtained based on variation in CpG methylation density. In the MEDIUM-HIGH and LOW fraction, 2144 and 1987 cHGBL-specific hypermethylated genes, respectively, were identified. Functional analysis highlighted pathways strongly related to oncogenesis. The relevant signaling pathways associated with neuronal system were also revealed, echoing recent novel findings that neurogenesis plays key roles in tumor establishment. In addition, 14 genes were hypermethylated in all the cHGBL cases but not in the healthy dogs. These genes might be potential signatures for tracing cHGBL, and some of them have been reported to play roles in various types of cancers. Further, the distinct methylation pattern of cHGBL showed a concordance with the clinical outcome, suggesting that aberrant epigenetic changes may influence tumor behavior. In summary, our study characterized genome-wide DNA methylation patterns using MethylCap-seq in cHGBL; the findings suggest that specific DNA hypermethylation holds promise for dissecting tumorigenesis and uncovering biomarkers for monitoring the progression of cHGBL.
The relationship between red cell distribution width and cardiac autonomic function in heart failure
Authors: Yamada Shinya , Yoshihisa Akiomi , Kaneshiro Takashi , Amami Kazuaki , Hijioka Naoko , Oikawa Masayoshi , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: October 2020

Background

Both increases in red cell distribution width (RDW) levels and autonomic dysfunction are considered to be correlated with worsening heart failure. However, the relation of RDW levels to autonomic function remains uncertain. We aimed to investigate the association of RDW levels in heart failure with autonomic function, evaluated by heart rate variability (HRV) and heart rate turbulence (HRT), and prognosis.

Methods

We studied 222 hospitalized patients with stable heart failure before discharge, and Holter recordings (HRV and HRT) were performed. Additionally, RDW levels were measured, and high RDW was defined as over 14.5%. We then divided the patients into two groups based on RDW levels: high RDW group (>14.5%, n = 92) and low RDW group (≤14.5%, n = 130). The relation of RDW to autonomic function and prognosis was assessed.

Results

In the high RDW group, severely impaired HRV and HRT were found compared to the low RDW group. In the linear regression analysis after the adjustment of multiple confounders, RDW levels were correlated with a low‐frequency (LF) to high‐frequency (HF) ratio and very low‐frequency (VLF) power (LF to HF ratio, β = −0.146, P = .027, and VLF power, β = −0.137, P = .041, respectively). During the observation period (median 1400 days), cardiac events (re‐hospitalization of heart failure, cardiac death or sudden death) were found in 73 (32.8%) patients. The Kaplan‐Meier analysis demonstrated that the high RDW group had a higher rate of cardiac events compared to the low RDW group (45.6% vs 23.8%, log‐rank P < .001).

Conclusion

High RDW levels were correlated with autonomic dysfunction, resulting in poor clinical outcomes.
A novel topical treatment for bone metastases using a gelatin hydrogel incorporating cisplatin as a sustained release system
Authors: Kanda Yutaro , Kakutani Kenichiro , Yurube Takashi , Zhang Zhongying , Miyazaki Shingo , Kakiuchi Yuji , Takeoka Yoshiki , Tsujimoto Ryu , Miyazaki Kunihiko , Kawamoto Teruya , Takada Toru , Hoshino Yuichi , Tabata Yasuhiko , Kuroda Ryosuke
Published: October 2020

Management of bone metastasis is becoming increasingly important. Thus, local and systemic treatment options have been developed for control. Although systemic administration of anticancer agents is effective for bone metastasis, it is often stopped because of poor general conditions or side effects. Therefore, it is highly desirable to develop a more effective and safer local treatment for bone metastasis. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the antitumor effects and safety of gelatin hydrogel microspheres incorporating cisplatin (GM‐CDDP), which we developed as a sustained release system without harmful substances. First, we assessed GM‐CDDP for its in vitro degradability and potential for sustained release. Second, in vivo antitumor and side effects were evaluated using a murine bone metastasis model of MDA‐MB‐231 human breast cancer cells incorporating GFP. In vitro, initial bursts were observed within 2 h and CDDP was released gradually with gelatin hydrogel degradation, which reached 100% at 48 h. In vivo, local administration of GM‐CDDP (2 mg/kg) significantly suppressed tumor growth and bone osteolysis compared with the control, and local and systemic administration of free CDDP (2 mg/kg; p < 0.05). Local administration of GM‐CDDP significantly reduced loss of body weight and elevation of blood urea nitrogen compared with the systemic administration of free CDDP (p < .05). The current study suggests that local administration of GM‐CDDP achieves higher antitumor effects with a potential for lesser side effects compared with local or systemic administration of free CDDP.
Assessment of knee kinematics with dynamic radiostereometry: Validation of an automated model‐based method of analysis using bone models
Authors: Christensen Rasmus , Petersen Emil Toft , Jürgens‐Lahnstein Jonathan , Rytter Søren , Lindgren Lars , De Raedt Sepp , Brüel Annemarie , Stilling Maiken
Published: October 2020

Radiostereometic analysis (RSA) is a precise method for the functional assessment of joint kinematics. Traditionally, the method is based on tracking of surgically implanted bone markers and analysis is user intensive. We propose an automated method of analysis based on models generated from computed tomography (CT) scans and digitally reconstructed radiographs. The study investigates method agreement between marker‐based RSA and the CT bone model‐based RSA method for assessment of knee joint kinematics in an experimental setup. Eight cadaveric specimens were prepared with bone markers and bone volume models were generated from CT‐scans. Using a mobile fixture setup, dynamic RSA recordings were obtained during a knee flexion exercise in two unique radiographic setups, uniplanar and biplanar. The method agreement between marker‐based and CT bone model‐based RSA methods was compared using bias and LoA. Results obtained from uniplanar and biplanar recordings were compared and the influence of radiographic setup was considered for clinical relevance. The automated method had a bias of −0.19 mm and 0.11° and LoA within ±0.42 mm and ±0.33° for knee joint translations and rotations, respectively. The model pose estimation of the tibial bone was more precise than the femoral bone. The radiographic setup had no clinically relevant effect on results. In conclusion, the automated CT bone model‐based RSA method had a clinical precision comparable to that of marker‐based RSA. The automated method is non‐invasive, fast, and clinically applicable for functional assessment of knee kinematics and pathomechanics in patients.
What every researcher should know about searching – clarified concepts, search advice, and an agenda to improve finding in academia
Authors: Gusenbauer Michael , Haddaway Neal R.
Published: October 2020

We researchers have taken searching for information for granted for far too long. The COVID‐19 pandemic shows us the boundaries of academic searching capabilities, both in terms of our know‐how and of the systems we have. With hundreds of studies published daily on COVID‐19, for example, we struggle to find, stay up‐to‐date, and synthesize information—all hampering evidence‐informed decision making. This COVID‐19 information crisis is indicative of the broader problem of information overloaded academic research. To improve our finding capabilities, we urgently need to improve how we search and the systems we use.

We respond to Klopfenstein and Dampier (Res Syn Meth. 2020) who commented on our 2020 paper and proposed a way of improving PubMed's and Google Scholar's search functionalities. Our response puts their commentary in a larger frame and suggests how we can improve academic searching altogether. We urge that researchers need to understand that search skills require dedicated education and training. Better and more efficient searching requires an initial understanding of the different goals that define the way searching needs to be conducted. We explain the main types of searching that we academics routinely engage in; distinguishing lookup, exploratory, and systematic searching. These three types must be conducted using different search methods (heuristics) and using search systems with specific capabilities. To improve academic searching, we introduce the “Search Triangle” model emphasizing the importance of matching goals, heuristics, and systems. Further, we suggest an urgently needed agenda toward search literacy as the norm in academic research and fit‐for‐purpose search systems.
Studies on the chemical constituents and quality evaluation of Rosa cymosa Tratt. root
Authors: Fan Xiaorui , Bai Lu , Lin Limei , Liao Duanfang , Gong Yun , Liu Xiaoqian , Wang Zhimin , Li Chun
Published: October 2020

Nowadays, the root of Rose cymosa Tratt. (Rosaceae) is widely used in clinic as one of the sources of Chinese herb medicine Jinyinggen. However, only few studies have been done on its chemical composition and quality control. In this study, 27 monomeric compounds were obtained from the ethanol extract of the roots of R. cymosa Tratt., including two undescribed triterpenes, one of which contains a distinctive contracted five‐membered A‐ring ursane‐type skeleton and the other is a common ursane‐type tritepene. Then, triterpenoids, the main components of the R. cymosa root, were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed by thin‐layer chromatography and high‐performance liquid chromatography methods. Thin‐layer chromatography can identify seven triterpenoids in R. cymosa Tratt. spontaneously. For the high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprint, total of 16 chromatographic peaks were selected as the common peaks of 20 batches of samples, ten of which were identified by reference substances. At the same chromatographic condition, five abundant triterpenoids were quantitatively assayed. R. cymose, as one of the origins of Jinyinggen, was similar to R. laevigata in triterpenoids compounds, which demonstrated that both of them could be used in the clinical medication. These work also laid a foundation for the further research and development of triterpenoids in R. cymosa root.
Low Skeletal Muscle Mass Is a Risk Factor for Aspiration Pneumonia During Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Endo Kazuhira , Ueno Takayoshi , Hirai Nobuyuki , Komori Takeshi , Nakanishi Yosuke , Kondo Satoru , Wakisaka Naohiro , Yoshizaki Tomokazu
Published: October 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate whether pretreatment skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) is a predictor for the risk of aspiration pneumonia and to explore the relationship between low SMI and overall survival (OS) in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) receiving chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of patients with HNSCC who received CRT during 2010–2019. Patients received a combination of radiotherapy and cisplatin‐based chemotherapy (3 cycles of 80 mg/m2 cisplatin on days 1, 22, and 43). Aspiration pneumonia were defined as the presence of both subjective and objective symptoms. Kaplan–Meier curves were generated to analyze survival.

Results

Among the 159 patients, 36 (22.6%) developed aspiration pneumonia during treatment. Median SMI in patients with and without pneumonia was 12.4 cm2/m2 (9.0–20.7) and 13.6 cm2/m2 (8.1–19.7), respectively (P < .01). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that SMI was the only independent predictor of aspiration pneumonia (P = .0026). Mean OS was significantly shorter for patients with low SMI than for patients with normal SMI (66.9 months vs. 92.7 months, P = .001).

Conclusion

Pretreatment low SMI predicts development of aspiration pneumonia and is a strong negative prognostic predictor for OS in patients with HNSCC undergoing CRT. Supportive treatment can be provided to patients at high risk of a low SMI. This study is the first to report SMI as a prognostic predictor in HNSCC. Laryngoscope, 131:E1524–E1529, 2021
Relationships of total phosphorus and chlorophyll in lakes worldwide
Authors: Quinlan Roberto , Filazzola Alessandro , Mahdiyan Octavia , Shuvo Arnab , Blagrave Kevin , Ewins Carolyn , Moslenko Luke , Gray Derek K. , O'Reilly Catherine M. , Sharma Sapna
Published: October 2020

Lakes around the world are sensitive to water quality degradation and eutrophication through increases in primary production. Understanding the drivers of primary production has been a fundamental question in limnology since its early days. Here, we conducted a systematic review to develop a dataset of water chemistry and lake morphometry for 3874 lakes distributed across 47 countries around the world to answer: (1) What is the global relationship between chlorophyll a (Chl a) and total phosphorus (TP) in lakes? (2) Are there inflection points at which the TP–Chl a relationship is no longer linear? and (3) What explains the inflection points and nonlinearities in the TP–Chl a relationship? We found that a sigmoidal relationship between TP and Chl a explained 44% of the variation. We also found physical characteristics of the lake mediated the TP–Chl a relationship such as mean depth, Secchi depth, and elevation. The nonlinear segments of this relationship best described lakes located in very cold (mean annual temperature = −10°C) and hot (> 25°C) climates, which also dominated the high and low ends of TP concentrations, respectively. A positive linear TP–Chl a relationship existed at intermediate concentrations of TP (0.004–0.23 mg L−1). A high degree of variability in Chl a exists between lakes at similar TP levels, highlighting the difficulty in simply decreasing nutrient inputs to manage eutrophication in lakes worldwide. Moreover, as global temperatures continue to rise, the Chl a–TP relationship in lakes located in very cold or warm temperate regions of the world may shift in response to these warmer temperatures.
Coumarin Grafted Polyethylene Matrix as Colorimetric and Fluorescent Chemosensor for Metal Ions
Authors: Vonlanthen Mireille , Rojas‐Montoya Sandra M. , Cuétara‐Guadarrama Fabián , Martínez‐Serrano Ricardo D. , Burillo Guillermina , Rivera Ernesto
Published: October 2020

A coumarin‐based chemosensor is synthesized and grafted onto a polyethylene (PE) surface by means of gamma radiation. The obtained polymeric film results to work as test‐paper‐like colorimetric sensor for the detection of Cu2+ ions. After immersion of the grafted PE film into a solution of Cu2+ in chloroform/methanol (8/2), a color change from colorless to green is observed by naked eye together with a quenching of the fluorescence emission. Control experiment with methoxy‐grafted PE films shows no response after the immersion in the same Cu2+ solution. The polymeric sensor can be washed and reused over several cycles for the detection of Cu2+. Moreover, the obtained polymeric sensor is used to detect Zn2+ by means of photoinduced electron transfer (PET) quenching disrupting mechanism. The fluorescence emission increases about three times after immersion in a solution containing Zn2+. A similar behavior is observed in the presence of acidic protons.
Semi‐IPNs Reinforced with Silica Janus Nanoparticles and Their Stress Sensing with Mechanoluminescent Probe
Authors: Wu Mengjiao , Yuan Wei , Yang Fan , Liang Fuxin , Chen Yulan
Published: October 2020

A series of nanocomposite elastomers are prepared by dispersing surface‐modified silica Janus nanoparticles into semi‐interpenetrating network (Semi‐IPN) of polyurethane/polyethyl methacrylate. Benefiting from the hierarchically crosslinked structures that consist of physical interlocking mediated by hydrogen‐bond‐rich silica Janus nanoparticles and permanent crosslinking by Semi‐IPN, these elastomers exhibit excellent mechanical properties. Moreover, the Janus nanosheet is found more effective in strengthening and toughening the Semi‐IPN, in comparison to Janus hollow sphere. Since 1,2‐dioxetane is covalently embedded in these elastomers as a mechanoluminescent stress probe, stress transfer between the polymer and Janus nanoparticles and the toughening mechanism can be illuminated, which offer exciting opportunities to study the failure process of complex polymer nanocomposites with high spatial and temporal resolution.
Mitochondrial DNA deletion and duplication in Kearns–Sayre Syndrome (KSS) with initial presentation as Pearson Marrow‐Pancreas Syndrome (PMPS): Two case reports in Barranquilla, Colombia
Authors: Sabella‐Jiménez Vanessa , Otero‐Herrera Carlos , Silvera‐Redondo Carlos , Garavito‐Galofre Pilar
Published: October 2020

Background

Kearns–Sayre Syndrome (KSS) and Pearson Marrow‐Pancreas Syndrome (PMPS) are among the classic phenotypes caused by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions. KSS is a rare mitochondrial disease defined by a classic triad of progressive external ophthalmoplegia, atypical pigmentary retinopathy, and onset before 20 years. PMPS presents in the first year of life with bone marrow failure and exocrine pancreatic dysfunction, and can evolve into KSS later in life. Even though an mtDNA deletion is the most frequent mutation in KSS and PMPS, cases of duplications and molecular rearrangements have also been described. In Colombia, few case reports of KSS and PMPS have been published in indexed journals or have been registered in scientific events.

Methods

We discuss clinical and genetic aspects of two case reports of pediatric female patients, with initial clinical diagnosis of PMPS who later evolved into KSS, with confirmatory molecular studies of an mtDNA deletion and an mtDNA duplication.

Results

A large‐scale mtDNA deletion, NC_012920.1:m.8286_14416del, was confirmed by Southern Blot in patient 1. An mtDNA duplication of 7.9 kb was confirmed by MLPA in patient 2.

Conclusions

Our findings are compatible with the phenotypic and genetic presentation of PMPS and KSS. We present the first molecularly confirmed case reports of Colombian patients, diagnosed initially with PMPS, who later evolved to KSS.
A fast multislice sequence for 3D MRI‐CEST pH imaging
Authors: Villano Daisy , Romdhane Feriel , Irrera Pietro , Consolino Lorena , Anemone Annasofia , Zaiss Moritz , Dastrù Walter , Longo Dario Livio
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Chemical exchange saturation transfer MRI can provide accurate pH images, but the slow scan time (due to long saturation periods and multiple offsets sampling) reduce both the volume coverage and spatial resolution capability, hence the possibility to interrogate the heterogeneity in tumors and organs. To overcome these limitations, we propose a fast multislice CEST‐MRI sequence with high pH accuracy and spatial resolution.

Methods

The sequence first uses a long saturation pulse to induce the steady‐state CEST contrast and a second short saturation pulse repeated after each image acquisition to compensate for signal losses based on an uneven irradiation scheme combined with a single‐shot rapid acquisition with refocusing echoes readout. Sequence sensitivity and accuracy in measuring pH was optimized by simulation and assessed by in vitro studies in pH‐varying phantoms. In vivo validation was performed in two applications by acquiring multislice pH images covering the whole tumors and kidneys after iopamidol injection.

Results

Simulated and in vivo data showed comparable contrast efficiency and pH responsiveness by reducing saturation time. The experimental data from a homogeneous, pH‐varying, iopamidol‐containing phantom show that the sequence produced a uniform CEST contrast across slices and accurate values across slices in less than 10 minutes. In vivo measurements allowed us to quantify the 3D pH gradients of tumors and kidneys, with pH ranges comparable with the literature.

Conclusion

The proposed fast multislice CEST‐MRI sequence allows volumetric acquisitions with good pH sensitivity, accuracy, and spatial resolution for several in vivo pH imaging applications.
Diagnosing Obesity as a First Step to Weight Loss: An Observational Study
Authors: Ciemins Elizabeth L. , Joshi Vaishali , Cuddeback John K. , Kushner Robert F. , Horn Deborah B. , Garvey W. Timothy
Published: October 2020

Objective

This study aimed to explore the relationship between an obesity diagnosis and weight loss as a percentage of total body weight loss over 9 to 15 months, using electronic health record data.

Methods

An observational study of 688,878 adult patients at 15 health systems with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 examined the relationship between weight loss and documentation of obesity diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression models were created using a stepwise backwards elimination procedure to identify potential predictors of weight loss.

Results

Of patients with BMI ≥ 30, 44.9% had an obesity diagnosis on a claim or electronic health record problem list; 16.9% and 5.9% lost ≥ 5% and ≥ 10% of their body weight, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression models revealed a diagnosis of obesity on the same day as the initial weight (odds ratio [OR] = 1.3; CI: 1.2‐1.3; P < 0.001) as a predictor of ≥ 5% total body weight loss in 9 to 15 months. Other significant predictors included an antiobesity medication prescription, female sex, diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, Medicare/Medicaid insurance, and number of ambulatory visits.

Conclusions

While controlling for potentially confounding factors, documentation of an obesity diagnosis remained independently predictive of at least 5% weight loss. This suggests that documenting a diagnosis of obesity may be an important step toward engaging patients to lose weight.
Enhanced fill factor for normal n‐i‐p planar heterojunction and mesoscopic perovskite solar cells using ruthenium‐doped TiO2 electron transporting layer
Authors: Mali Sawanta S. , Patil Jyoti V. , Shinde Pravin S. , Hong Chang Kook
Published: October 2020

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) fabricated with a normal mesoscopic negative‐intrinsic‐positive (n‐i‐p) device structure have shown a great promise for further developments ever since their enhanced performance with high power conversion efficiency (PCE, 25.2%) and excellent reproducibility. The electron transporting layer (ETL) employed in such PSCs has been a critical component for improving their performance. The present work focuses on the synthesis of high‐quality Ru‐doped compact TiO2 (c‐TiO2) ETLs (Ru:c‐TiO2) by a simple spin‐coating technique. Further, the role of Ru4+ cation doping in c‐TiO2 is discussed in detail. A systematic study revealed that the Ru‐doping not only significantly influences the open‐circuit voltage (Voc), current density (Jsc), and fill factor (FF) but also suppresses the charge recombination in the perovskite devices. The PSCs prepared using Ru‐c‐TiO2 ETLs with optimum Ru‐doping content exhibited PCEs of 19.48% for planar and 20.87% for mesoscopic device architecture with enhanced photovoltage. Additionally, the fabricated PSC devices based on 1.5% Ru:c‐TiO2 ETLs exhibited air stability over 200 days, which is much higher than that of a control device.
On the analysis of a summertime convective event in a hyperarid environment
Authors: Francis Diana , Temimi Marouane , Fonseca Ricardo , Nelli Narendra R. , Abida Rachid , Weston Michael , Whebe Youssef
Published: October 2020

A summertime convective event that developed on 5 September 2017 over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is investigated in this study. Atmospheric profiles from a ground‐based microwave radiometer along with satellite observations and in situ data from three weather stations in the UAE were used. The event was simulated using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, forced with four input datasets: Global Forecast System (GFS), Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR), and the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts ERA‐5 and ERA‐Interim reanalyses. The afternoon and evening convection was triggered by the intrusion of a mid‐level trough from midlatitudes and was favoured by the convergence over land of thermally forced maritime air masses. Near‐surface observations at a weather station revealed a 7 °C drop in air temperature, a doubling of the wind speed to 9 m·s−1 in 30 min, and a shift in wind direction from easterly, to southerly and then westerly in about 45 min, associated with the passage of the cold pool emanating from a Mesoscale Convective System (MCS). At the location where the microwave radiometer was deployed, the pre‐squall low and wake low signatures are also captured, with a 5 m·s−1 increase in the wind speed in just 5 min. The observed features of the studied MCS were found to compare with those reported for MCSs in the Tropics. The four experiments gave a similar performance, although the GFS simulation generally generated higher skill scores. The investigated MCS event was not captured by WRF, which was attributed to a misrepresentation of soil moisture in the model. This study highlights the difficulties regional models like WRF may have in reproducing MCSs over arid/hyperarid regions, which may result in a misrepresentation of their impacts in climate projection studies.
Effects of nerve‐sparing procedures on bowel function after robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy: A longitudinal study
Authors: Nishikawa Ryoma , Honda Masashi , Teraoka Shogo , Shimizu Ryutaro , Kimura Yusuke , Iwamoto Hideto , Morizane Shuichi , Hikita Katsuya , Takenaka Atsushi
Published: October 2020

Background

This study aimed to evaluate rectal pain and bowel function of the patients following robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).

Methods

We divided 296 patients who underwent RARP into two groups depending on the intervention: NS (nerve‐sparing) group (bilateral NS, unilateral NS and bilateral partial NS) and non‐NS group (unilateral partial NS, bilateral non‐NS). Bowel function was assessed using the Extended Prostate Cancer Index Composite for 24 months after RARP.

Results

The bowel function score and rectal urgency at 1−6 months after RARP were more significantly impaired in the non‐NS group than in the NS group (p < 0.05). In a multivariate analysis of factors affecting the bowel function score at 6 months after RARP, only NS procedure had a significant effect.

Conclusions

In the initial period after RARP, bowel symptoms were significantly impaired. This impairment was affected by the degree of NS. These results could guide patients in their decision to choose RARP.
Bayesian inference using Hamiltonian Monte‐Carlo algorithm for nonlinear joint modeling in the context of cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Kerioui Marion , Mercier Francois , Bertrand Julie , Tardivon Coralie , Bruno René , Guedj Jérémie , Desmée Solène
Published: October 2020

Treatment evaluation in advanced cancer mainly relies on overall survival and tumor size dynamics. Both markers and their association can be simultaneously analyzed by using joint models, and these approaches are supported by many softwares or packages. However, these approaches are essentially limited to linear models for the longitudinal part, which limit their biological interpretation. More biological models of tumor dynamics can be obtained by using nonlinear models, but they are limited by the fact that parameter identifiability require rich dataset. In that context Bayesian approaches are particularly suited to incorporate the biological knowledge and increase the information available, but they are limited by the high computing cost of Monte‐Carlo by Markov Chains algorithms. Here, we aimed to assess the performances of the Hamiltonian Monte‐Carlo (HMC) algorithm implemented in Stan for inference in a nonlinear joint model. The method was validated on simulated data where HMC provided proper posterior distributions and credibility intervals in a reasonable computational time. Then the association between tumor size dynamics and survival was assessed in patients with advanced or metastatic bladder cancer treated with atezolizumab, an immunotherapy agent. HMC confirmed limited sensitivity to prior distributions. A cross‐validation approach was developed and identified the current slope of tumor size dynamics as the most relevant driver of survival. In summary, HMC is an efficient approach to perform nonlinear joint models in a Bayesian framework, and opens the way for the use of nonlinear models to characterize both the rapid dynamics and the intersubject variability observed during cancer immunotherapy treatment.
Cellulose Nanofiber/Carbon Nanotube‐Based Bicontinuous Ion/Electron Conduction Networks for High‐Performance Aqueous Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Seung‐Hyeok , Kim Ju‐Myung , Ahn David B. , Lee Sang‐Young
Published: October 2020

Despite their potential as a next‐generation alternative to current state‐of‐the‐art lithium (Li)‐ion batteries, rechargeable aqueous zinc (Zn)‐ion batteries still lag in practical use due to their low energy density, sluggish redox kinetics, and limited cyclability. In sharp contrast to previous studies that have mostly focused on materials development, herein, a new electrode architecture strategy based on a 3D bicontinuous heterofibrous network scaffold (HNS) is presented. The HNS is an intermingled nanofibrous mixture composed of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs, for electron‐conduction channels) and hydrophilic cellulose nanofibers (CNFs, for electrolyte accessibility). As proof‐of‐concept for the HNS electrode, manganese dioxide (MnO2) particles, one of the representative Zn‐ion cathode active materials, are chosen. The HNS allows uniform dispersion of MnO2 particles and constructs bicontinuous electron/ion conduction pathways over the entire HNS electrode (containing no metallic foil current collectors), thereby facilitating the redox kinetics (in particular, the intercalation/deintercalation of Zn2+ ions) of MnO2 particles. Driven by these advantageous effects, the HNS electrode enables substantial improvements in the rate capability, cyclability (without structural disruption and aggregation of MnO2), and electrode sheet‐based energy (91 Wh kgelectrode−1)/power (1848 W kgelectrode−1) densities, which lie far beyond those achievable with conventional Zn‐ion battery technologies.
Synergistic Interaction of Double/Simple Perovskite Heterostructure for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction at High Current Density
Authors: Liu Yingying , Dou Yingnan , Li Shuang , Xia Tian , Xie Ying , Wang Yan , Zhang Wei , Wang Jingping , Huo Lihuo , Zhao Hui
Published: October 2020

Electrocatalytic hydrogen production for industrial level requires highly active and cost‐effective catalysts at large current densities. Herein A‐site Ba‐deficient double perovskite PrBa0.94Co2O5+δ (PB0.94C) is used as a precursor for fabricating PB0.94C‐based double/simple perovskite heterostructure (PB0.94C‐DSPH). PB0.94C‐DSPH with enhanced electrochemical surface area, more hydrophilic surface, and high conductivity ensures abundant active sites, rapid release of gas, and efficient charge transfer at high current densities. The resultant PB0.94C‐DSPH delivers the overpotential of 364 mV at a current density of 500 mA cm−2 for hydrogen evolution reaction in 1.0 m KOH solution, along with excellent long‐term durability. Promisingly, the electrolyzer with PB0.94C‐DSPH cathode and NiFe‐layered double hydroxide anode demonstrates high performance for overall water splitting by yielding high current density of 500 mA cm−2 at 1.93 V. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the double/simple perovskite heterostructure promotes the water adsorption, the dissociation of molecular H2O, and the OH* desorption considerably, which controls the whole hydrogen evolution process. The proposed PB0.94C‐DSPH solves the problem of low hydrogen‐evolution efficiency at high current density faced by noble metal‐based catalysts in basic environment. This study may provide a route to explore high‐demand elements in the earth for addressing the critical catalysts in clean‐energy utilizations.
Conceptual design of structures
Authors: Heggade Venkataramana N
Published: October 2020

The conceptual design hither to has been an individualistic approach practiced over a long period of time and not taught in universities. However, the conceptual design approach is very important to produce sound and sustainable structures. Engineers like Robert Maillart, Alexandre Sarrasin, Eugéne Freyssinet, Joerg Schlaich and Christian Menn significantly contributed to the evolution of today's international state‐of‐art technology and the cultural value of modern engineering structures. Billington called efficiency, economy, and elegance as common denominator for conceptualization of bridge design to counter countless anonymous, frequent utility structures based on mere technical and economic criteria. Many iterations of the design process are required at this stage to refine the concept for design and construction to adhere to functional, sustainability, financial and other constraints like right of way, etc. The tools used for analysis for investigations and iterations of the options may not necessarily be refined ones during conceptual design stage. The designer should have developed creative skills having a bent of mind for architecture and an architect having a broad insight in to structural engineering to render the best of the concept designs. While the structural designer must have a profound knowledge of engineering and available technologies, the architect can contribute in developing broad culture in many and important contextual aspects.
Molecular mechanisms of quinalizarin induces apoptosis and G0/G1 cell cycle of human esophageal cancer HCE‐4 cells depends on MAPK, STAT3, and NF‐κB signaling pathways
Authors: Zang Yan‐Qing , Zhai Yu‐Qing , Feng Yan‐Yu , Ju Xue‐Ying , Zuo Feng
Published: October 2020

Quinalizarin (Quina) is one of the main components of many herbal medicines and has good anti‐tumor activity. However, the exact mode of cytotoxic action and signaling pathways on Quina in human esophageal cancer has not yet been confirmed. In this study, we explored the anticancer effect of Quina against human esophageal cancer HCE‐4 cells and the underlying mechanisms. The results of the Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay showed that Quina inhibited the viability of human esophageal cancer HCE‐4 cells in a dose‐dependent and time‐dependent manner. It also inhibited HCE‐4 cells proliferation and induced apoptosis by increasing the levels of Bad, caspase‐3, and PARP, decreasing the level of Bcl‐2. The results of the cell cycle analysis suggested that Quina arrested HCE‐4 cells in the G0/G1 cycle by downregulating cyclin‐dependent (CDK) 2/4, cyclin D1/E and upregulating the levels of p21 and p27. We also found that Quina activated mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and inhibited the signal transducer and activator of transcription‐3 (STAT3) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) signaling pathways. Furthermore, Quina significantly increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level. The pretreatment of N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) blocked the apoptosis induced by Quina and inhibited the activities of MAPK, STAT3, and NF‐κB signaling pathways. These results indicate that Quina induces the apoptosis in HCE‐4 cells, which is via accumulating ROS generation and regulating MAPK, STAT3, and NF‐κB. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that Quina have good therapeutic effects on human esophageal cancer cells.
Prenatal diagnosis and planned peripartum care improve perinatal outcome of fetuses with transposition of the great arteries and intact ventricular septum in low‐resource settings
Authors: Kunde F. , Thomas S. , Sudhakar A. , Kunjikutty R. , Kumar R. K. , Vaidyanathan B.
Published: October 2020

Objective

To report on the feasibility of establishing a regional prenatal referral network for critical congenital heart defects (CHDs) and its impact on perinatal outcome of fetuses with transposition of the great arteries and intact ventricular septum (TGA‐IVS) in low‐resource settings.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of consecutive fetuses with a diagnosis of TGA‐IVS between January 2011 and December 2019 in Kochi, Kerala, India. A regional network for prenatal diagnosis and referral of patients with critical CHDs was initiated in 2011. Pregnancy and early neonatal outcomes were reported. The impact of the timing of diagnosis (prenatal or after birth) on age at surgery, perinatal mortality and postoperative recovery was evaluated.

Results

A total of 82 fetuses with TGA‐IVS were included. Diagnosis typically occurred later on in gestation, at a median of 25 (interquartile range (IQR), 21–32) weeks. The majority (78.0%) of affected pregnancies resulted in live birth, most (84.4%) of which occurred in a specialist pediatric cardiac centers. Delivery in a specialist center, compared with delivery in a local maternity center, was associated with a significantly higher rate of surgical correction (98.1% vs 70.0%; P = 0.01) and overall lower neonatal mortality (3.7% vs 50%; P = 0.001). The proportion of cases undergoing arterial switch operation after prenatal diagnosis of TGA‐IVS increased significantly, along with the prenatal detection rate, over the study period (2011–2015, 11.1% vs 2016–2019, 29.4%; P = 0.001). Median age at surgery was significantly lower in the prenatally diagnosed group than that in the postnatally diagnosed group (4 days (IQR, 1–23 days) vs 10 days (IQR, 1–91 days); P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in postoperative mortality (2.0% vs 3.6%; P = 0.49) between the two groups.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the feasibility of creating a network for prenatal diagnosis and referral of patients with critical CHDs, such as TGA, in low‐resource settings, that enables planned peripartum care in specialist pediatric cardiac centers and improved neonatal survival. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Differences in post‐traumatic stress, anxiety and depression following miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy between women and their partners: multicenter prospective cohort study
Authors: Farren J. , Jalmbrant M. , Falconieri N. , Mitchell‐Jones N. , Bobdiwala S. , Al‐Memar M. , Tapp S. , Van Calster B. , Wynants L. , Timmerman D. , Bourne T.
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To investigate and compare post‐traumatic stress (PTS), depression and anxiety in women and their partners over a 9‐month period following miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study. Consecutive women and their partners were approached in the early pregnancy units of three hospitals in central London. At 1, 3 and 9 months after early pregnancy loss, recruits were e‐mailed links to surveys containing the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Post‐traumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale. The proportion of participants meeting the screening criteria for moderate or severe anxiety or depression and PTS was assessed. Mixed‐effects logistic regression was used to analyze differences between women and their partners and their evolution over time.

Results

In total, 386 partners were approached after the woman in whom the early pregnancy loss had been diagnosed consented to participate, and 192 couples were recruited. All partners were male. Response rates were 60%, 48% and 39% for partners and 78%, 70% and 59% for women, at 1, 3 and 9 months, respectively. Of the partners, 7% met the criteria for PTS at 1 month, 8% at 3 months and 4% at 9 months, compared with 34%, 26% and 21% of women, respectively. Partners also experienced lower rates of moderate/severe anxiety (6% vs 30% at 1 month, 9% vs 25% at 3 months and 6% vs 22% at 9 months) and moderate/severe depression (2% vs 10% at 1 month, 5% vs 8% at 3 months and 1% vs 7% at 9 months). The odds ratios for psychological morbidity in partners vs women after 1 month were 0.02 (95% CI, 0.004–0.12) for PTS, 0.05 (95% CI, 0.01–0.19) for moderate/severe anxiety and 0.15 (95% CI, 0.02–0.96) for moderate/severe depression. Morbidity for each outcome decreased modestly over time, without strong evidence of a different evolution between women and their partners.

Conclusions

Some partners report clinically relevant levels of PTS, anxiety and depression after pregnancy loss, though to a far lesser extent than women physically experiencing the loss. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology