bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molten salt synthesis and luminescence of Dy3+‐doped Y3Al5O12 phosphors
Authors: Yang Yu‐Guo , Wang Xu‐Ping , Liu Bing , Zhang Yuan‐Yuan , Lv Xian‐Shun , Li Jing , Wei Lei , Yu Hua‐Jian , Hu Yanyan , Zhang Hua‐Di
Published: January 2020

Dy3+‐doped Y3Al5O12 phosphors were prepared at a relatively low temperature using molten salt synthesis. The phase of the prepared Dy3+‐doped Y3Al5O12 phosphors was confirmed using X‐ray powder diffraction. Results indicated that Dy3+ doping did not change the Y3Al5O12 phase. Following excitation at 352 nm, emission spectra of the Dy3+‐doped Y3Al5O12 phosphors consisted of blue, yellow, and red emission bands. The influence of Dy3+ concentration and excitation wavelength on emission was investigated. The ratio of yellow light to blue light varied with change in Dy3+ doping concentration, due to changes in the structure around Dy3+. Emission intensities also changed when the excitation wavelength was changed. This variation is luminescence generated a system for tunable white light for Dy3+‐doped Y3Al5O12 phosphors.
The experience of hearing loss in adult survivors of childhood and young adult cancer: A qualitative study
Authors: Khan Amber , Mubdi Nidha , Budnick Amy , Feldman Darren R. , Williams Sharon W. , Patel Seema , Tonorezos Emily S.
Published: January 2020

Background

Hearing loss is a prevalent late effect among cancer survivors. Despite the significant social costs, there is a noted delay in seeking care and to the authors' knowledge there are limited data regarding the lived experiences of cancer survivors with hearing loss. The objective of the current study was to explore the lived experience of hearing loss in survivors of childhood and young adult cancers to guide survivorship care.

Methods

A total of 24 survivors participated in semistructured telephone interviews. Inclusion criteria consisted of a clinical visit at the Adult Long‐Term Follow‐Up Program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City between September 2005 and January 2019; exposure to cranial radiotherapy, platinum chemotherapy, or both; and hearing loss as evidenced by clinical notes, use of hearing aids, or audiogram levels consistent with severe ototoxicity.

Results

Three primary themes emerged from the interviews. First, posttreatment hearing loss is associated with isolation and feelings of exclusion. Second, clinicians play an important role in providing survivors with education regarding hearing loss and hearing aids. Finally, hearing loss for survivors may be deprioritized because it is a reminder of the cancer history and is interpreted within the context of other treatment‐related late effects.

Conclusions

Clinicians play an important role in initiating the discussion regarding hearing loss with survivors given the importance of hearing in maintaining social relationships, the availability of hearing care interventions, and the invisibility of hearing loss. Education regarding the value of treatment may have implications for how survivors choose to prioritize hearing loss and seek care.
The engagement of stakeholders in nonfinancial reporting: New information‐pressure, stimuli, inertia, under short‐termism in the banking industry
Authors: Campra Maura , Esposito Paolo , Lombardi Rosa
Published: January 2020

In the past few years, nonfinancial reporting has been a widely debated issue in literature, not the least because of its importance during times in which topics such as climate change and social transformations have become strategic issues particularly for larger companies. Recent regulatory changes within the European legal framework have marked the transition from a voluntary nonfinancial reporting system to a mandatory one for larger companies. Unlike the case of manufacturing companies, the debate surrounding the application of CSR policies in the banking industry has not been as univocal. Taking into account a case study, we how such pressure is neither strictly positive nor negative, but it can rather be defined as a stimulating inertia, able to indicate prompt and sure strategic directions for the Company, to be pursued in a sustainable manner. This will need the implementation of internationally acknowledged policies and procedures regulating the interactions between the Company and its stakeholders.
Palladium‐Catalyzed 2‐(Neopentylsulfinyl)aniline Directed C–H Acetoxylation and Alkenylation of Arylacetamides
Authors: Barysevich Maryia V. , Laktsevich‐Iskryk Marharyta V. , Krech Anastasiya V. , Zhabinskii Vladimir N. , Khripach Vladimir A. , Hurski Alaksiej L.
Published: January 2020

The 2‐(neopentylsulfinyl)aniline directing group that promotes rapid palladium‐catalyzed C–H acetoxylation and alkenylation of arylacetamides has been developed. The acetoxylation reaches completion within only 40 min at 100 °C and leads to the bis‐functionalized products. Alternatively, the reaction can be carried out at room temperature, which is beneficial for sensitive substrates. For the alkenylation, we have developed a protocol in which easily available 1‐substituted cyclopropanols were employed as equivalents of vinyl ketones.
Gold‐Catalyzed One‐Pot A3‐Coupling/1,5‐Hydride Shift/Schmittel‐Type Cyclization: From Aldehydes, Amines and Alkynes to the Synthesis of Benzo[b]fluorenes
Authors: Lustosa Danilo M. , Hartmann Deborah , Rudolph Matthias , Rominger Frank , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: January 2020

A step‐economic gold‐catalyzed one‐pot synthesis of benzo[b]fluorenes, from aldehydes, alkynes and amines, proceeding via an A3‐coupling/1,5‐hydride shift/Schmittel‐type cyclization is described. The formation of the allene intermediate is not dependent on a previous installation of reaction triggers, and upon cyclization delivered benzo[b]fluorenes. With this method, just by an easy modification of the starting materials in a modular way, nineteen benzo[b]fluorenes, bearing different substituents Ar1, Ar2 and Ar3, were prepared. Overall, three new carbon–carbon bonds are formed in one‐pot.
Effects of Micronucleus Frequencies and Mitochondrial DNA Copy Numbers among Benzene‐Exposed Workers in China
Authors: Li Anqi , Sun Yuan , Wang Tongshuai , Wang Kan , Wang Tuanwei , Liu Wuzhong , Li Keyong , Au William W. , Wang Zubing , Xia Zhao‐lin
Published: January 2020

To provide a more comprehensive understanding of genotoxic effects from benzene exposure, its effects on induction of mitochondrial DNA copy number (MtDNAcn) and of micronucleus (MN) were investigated using peripheral blood from workers in China. Changes in mtDNAcn and MN were determined using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and cytokinesis‐block micronucleus assays (CBMN), respectively, in 58 control and 174 benzene‐exposed workers in Shanghai, China. Among the exposed workers, relative mtDNAcn increased and then decreased with increasing doses of benzene exposure. Significant and dose‐dependent increase in MN frequencies were observed among the different exposure groups. In addition, the relative mtDNAcn were significantly associated with the MN frequencies in the low‐level exposure group (P = 0.046), but not in the high dose groups. Therefore, the mechanisms for induction of MtDNAcn and MN by benzene may be similar from exposure to low doses but different from high doses. Similar increase of MN frequencies and MtDNAcn may be due to oxidative stress induced by benzene at low concentrations, while higher concentrations may start to initiate the cell death pathway. The pathway may be associated with excessive MtDNAcn which can initiate apoptosis while MN can continue to be induced. However, the differential mechanisms need to be investigated because they may represent different levels of risk for different health consequences. On the other hand, our data indicate that induction of MtDNAcn may be a sensitive genotoxic biomarker for workers with exposure to low dose of benzene. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 61:355–360, 2020. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Deep sequencing of myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma
Authors: Arbajian Elsa , Hofvander Jakob , Magnusson Linda , Mertens Fredrik
Published: January 2020

Myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma (MIFS) has recurrent genetic features in the form of a translocation t(1;10)(p22‐31;q24‐25),BRAFgene fusions, and/or an amplicon in 3p11‐12 including theVGLL3gene. The breakpoints on chromosomes 1 and 10 in the t(1;10) cluster in or near theTGFBR3andOGAgenes, respectively. We here used a combination of deep sequencing of the genome (WGS), captured sequences (Cap‐seq), and transcriptome (RNA‐seq) and genomic arrays to investigate the molecular outcome of the t(1;10) and theVGLL3amplicon, as well as to assess the spectrum of other recurrent genomic features in MIFS. Apart from aROBO1‐BRAFchimera in a t(1;10)‐negative MIFS‐like tumor, no fusion gene was found at RNA‐seq. This was in line with WGS and Cap‐seq results, revealing variable breakpoints in chromosomes 1 and 10 and genomic breakpoints that should not yield functional fusion transcripts. The most common genomic rearrangements were breakpoints in or around theOGA,NPM3, andFGF8genes in chromosome band 10q24, and loss of 1p11‐p21 and 10q26‐qter (all simultaneously present in 6/7 MIFS); a breakpoint in or nearTGFBR3in chromosome 1 was found in four of these tumors. Amplification and overexpression ofVGLL3was a consistent feature in MIFS and MIFS‐like tumors with amplicons in 3p11‐12. The significant molecular genetic outcome of the recurrent t(1;10) could be loss of genetic material from 1p and 10q. Other recurrent genomic imbalances in MIFS, such as homozygous loss ofCDKN2Aand 3p‐ and 13q‐deletions, are shared with other sarcomas, suggesting overlapping pathogenetic pathways.
Uncovering Biological Factors That Regulate Hepatocellular Carcinoma Growth Using Patient‐Derived Xenograft Assays
Authors: Zhu Min , Li Lin , Lu Tianshi , Yoo Hyesun , Zhu Ji , Gopal Purva , Wang Sam C. , Porembka Matthew R. , Rich Nicole E. , Kagan Sofia , Odewole Mobolaji , Renteria Veronica , Waljee Akbar K. , Wang Tao , Singal Amit G. , Yopp Adam C. , Zhu Hao
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims

Several major factors limit our understanding of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). First, human HCCs are infrequently biopsied for diagnosis and thus are not often biologically interrogated. Second, HCC initiation and progression are strongly influenced by the cirrhotic microenvironment, and the exact contributions of intrinsic and extrinsic tumor factors are unclear. A powerful approach to examine the personalized biology of liver cancers and the influence of host tissues is with patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) models. In Asia, HCCs from patients with hepatitis B virus have been efficiently converted into PDXs, but few parallel efforts from the west have been reported.

Approach and Results

In a large‐scale analysis, we implanted 93 HCCs and 8 cholangiocarcinomas (CCAs) to systematically analyze host factors and to define an optimized platform for PDX development from both surgical and biopsy samples. NOD Scid IL‐2Rγ−/−
(NSG) mice that had undergone partial hepatectomy (PHx) represented the best combination of engraftability, growth, and passageability, but overall rates were low and indicative of a unique intrinsic biology for HCCs in the United States. PDX models preserved the histology and genetic features of parental tumors, and ultimately, eight models were usable for preclinical studies. Intriguingly, HCC PDXs were differentially sensitive to regorafenib and sorafenib, and CCA PDXs were also highly sensitive to regorafenib.

Conclusions

PDX models functionalize early and advanced stage HCCs and revealed unique biological features of liver cancers from the United States.
Adiponectin receptor agonist AdipoRon attenuates calcification of osteoarthritis chondrocytes by promoting autophagy
Authors: Duan Zhi‐xi , Tu Chao , Liu Qing , Li Shuang‐qing , Li Yi‐han , Xie Peng , Li Zhi‐hong
Published: January 2020

Cartilage calcification contributes to the development and progression of osteoarthritis (OA). It has been well‐investigated adiponectin regulates vascular calcification. The purpose of this study is to investigate the therapeutic value and the molecular mechanism of AdipoRon, an adiponectin receptor agonist, on the chondrocytes calcification. Primary chondrocytes were isolated and cultured from normal cartilage and OA cartilage. The calcification in tissues was evaluated by inductively coupled plasma/atomic emission spectroscopy and alizarin red S staining. The calcification in chondrocytes was determined using the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and an ALP assay kit. The cellular effects of AdipoRon were assessed by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot analysis. We found that calcification was significantly increased in OA cartilage tissues and cells. Importantly, the degree of calcification and ALP activity of the OA chondrocytes was decreased upon the treatment with AdipoRon. The AdipoRon‐induced cellular effects, including the reduction of the calcification of chondrocytes and improvement of autophagy, were blocked by dorsomorphin, an 5′‐adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibitor. Moreover, autophagy activation by AdipoRon was mediated by the AMPK‐mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. Our results suggest that AdipoRon significantly alleviates the calcification of OA chondrocytes via activating AMPK‐mTOR signaling to promote autophagy. Therefore, AdipoRon could be a potential therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of OA.
Serum exosomal miR‐7977 as a novel biomarker for lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chen Liangyuan , Cao Pengju , Huang Chunli , Wu Qiumei , Chen Shaoting , Chen Falin
Published: January 2020

Exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) have great potentials as a novel biomarker to predict lung cancer. We applied a miRNA microarray to identify aberrantly expressed serum exosomal miRNAs as candidate biomarkers for patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Compared with the normal control, 31 exosomal miRNAs were found to be upregulated and 29 exosomal miRNAs were downregulated in the serum of LUAD respectively. Then, 10 dysregulated exosomal miRNAs expression levels in serum were further validated via qRT‐polymerase chain reaction. Notably, exosomal miR‐7977 was highest expressed and miR‐98‐3p was lowest expressed in the patients with LUAD, and exosomal miR‐7977 showed significant correlation with the N stage and TNM stage with patients with LUAD (P < .05). Receiver operating characteristic curve showed that the abundant level of exosomal miR‐7977 may predict LUAD with an area of under the curve (AUC) of 0.787. In comparison with exosomal miR‐7977, exosomal miR‐98‐3p had a smaller area (0.719). The combination of exosomal miR‐7977 and miR‐98‐3p improved the AUC to 0.816. Furthermore, in vitro experiments revealed that inhibition of miR‐7977 enhanced the proliferation, invasion, and inhibited apoptosis in A549 cells, the opposite results were performed by miR‐7977 mimics. In conclusion, exosomal miR‐7977 was identified as a novel biomarker for patients with LUAD and may play as a tumor suppressor in lung cancer.
The exploration of new therapeutic targets for HPV‐negative head and neck squamous cell cancer through the construction of a ceRNA network and immune microenvironment analysis
Authors: Wang Zuoyuan , Liu Tianyi , Li Guangqi , Cao Zhipeng
Published: January 2020

Previous studies have shown that human papillomavirus (HPV)‐negative patients with head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) suffer from an unsatisfactory prognosis. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been verified to participate in many biological processes, including regulating gene expression as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs), while few studies focused the ceRNA network regulation mechanism in patients with HPV‐negative HNSCC tumor. Meanwhile, the immune microenvironment may be critical in the development and prognosis of HPV‐negative tumors. Our study aimed to further investigate the pathogenesis and potential biomarkers for the diagnosis, therapy and prognosis of HPV‐negative HNSCC through a ceRNA network. Comprehensively analyzing the sequencing data of lncRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs), and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in The Cancer Genome Atlas HNSCC dataset, we constructed a differentially expressed ceRNA network containing 131 lncRNAs, 35 miRNAs and 162 mRNAs. Then, survival analysis in the network was cited to explore the prognostic biomarkers. Eight mRNAs, nine lncRNAs, and one miRNA were identified to be associated with prognosis. Neuropilin (NRP) binding function, retinoid X receptor (RXR) binding, and the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway were associated with the enrichment analysis, and they also related to the immune microenvironment. Combined with the analysis of the immune microenvironment differences, we obtained new targeted therapies using an RXR agonist, or a combination of the VEGF monoclonal antibody and an NRP antagonist, which may provide a promising future for HPV‐negative HNSCC patients.
Infrared and Raman spectra of lignin substructures: Dibenzodioxocin
Authors: Bock Peter , Nousiainen Paula , Elder Thomas , Blaukopf Markus , Amer Hassan , Zirbs Ronald , Potthast Antje , Gierlinger Notburga
Published: January 2020

Vibrational spectroscopy is a very suitable tool for investigating the plant cell wall in situ with almost no sample preparation. The structural information of all different constituents is contained in a single spectrum. Interpretation therefore heavily relies on reference spectra and understanding of the vibrational behavior of the components under study. For the first time, we show infrared (IR) and Raman spectra of dibenzodioxocin (DBDO), an important lignin substructure. A detailed vibrational assignment of the molecule, based on quantum chemical computations, is given in the Supporting Information; the main results are found in the paper. Furthermore, we show IR and Raman spectra of synthetic guaiacyl lignin (dehydrogenation polymer—G‐DHP). Raman spectra of DBDO and G‐DHP both differ with respect to the excitation wavelength and therefore reveal different features of the substructure/polymer. This study confirms the idea previously put forward that Raman at 532 nm selectively probes end groups of lignin, whereas Raman at 785 nm and IR seem to represent the majority of lignin substructures.
Prognostic value of muscle depletion assessed by computed tomography for surgical outcomes of cancer patients undergoing total esophagectomy and gastrectomy
Authors: Menezes Taysa M. , Dias Marina O. , dos Reis Ricardo , Elias Jorge , Lucchesi Fabiano R. , Araujo Raphael L. C.
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Considering the high morbimortality rate in oncologic surgeries of the gastrointestinal tract, especially in patients with malnutrition, the use of predictive tools is necessary, since preoperative strategies could improve postoperative outcomes.

Objectives

To evaluate body composition by computed tomography and its association with morbimortality post esophagectomy and total gastrectomy.

Methods

Prospective cohort study (n = 80). Sociodemographic, diagnostic, treatment and postoperative data were collected. Anthropometric and biochemical (hemoglobin, transferrin, and albumin) data were evaluated. The muscle mass was calculated through two methods, the muscle mass index (MMI) and the psoas total area (PTA). For postoperative complications classification, the Clavien‐Dindo scale was used.

Results

The prevalence of muscle depletion found was 33.8% by MMI and 61% by PTA (poor agreement, kappa = 0.25). Complication rates were 18.5% in gastrectomies and 50% in esophagectomies. No statistically significant difference was found between the presence of muscle depletion and complications. However, when stratified by surgery, a borderline association was found between the MMI and post esophagectomies complications (P = .05).

Conclusion

Despite the high prevalence of muscle loss, it was not possible to correlate it with surgical outcomes for gastrectomies, but for esophagectomies, there may be relevance due to borderline association, although patients received nutritional therapy.
ACA tops some of the most defining moments in MH over the past decade
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2020

December 31, 2019, marked the end of a decade that saw key developments in mental health and behavioral health, ranging from the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to the opioid epidemic to the U.S. Department of Justice's (DOJ's) enforcement of the Olmstead decision.
Some properties and an application of multivariate exponential polynomials
Authors: Qi Feng , Niu Da‐Wei , Lim Dongkyu , Guo Bai‐Ni
Published: January 2020

In the paper, the authors introduce a notion “multivariate exponential polynomials” which generalize exponential numbers and polynomials, establish explicit formulas, inversion formulas, and recurrence relations for multivariate exponential polynomials in terms of the Stirling numbers of the first and second kinds with the help of the Faà di Bruno formula, two identities for the Bell polynomials of the second kind, and the inversion theorem for the Stirling numbers of the first and second kinds, construct some determinantal inequalities and product inequalities for multivariate exponential polynomials with the aid of some properties of completely monotonic functions and other known results, derive the logarithmic convexity and logarithmic concavity for multivariate exponential polynomials, and finally find an application of multivariate exponential polynomials to white noise distribution theory by confirming that multivariate exponential polynomials satisfy conditions for sequences required in white noise distribution theory.
Characterization of extremely low profile patch antenna loaded with periodic diamond metasurface ground plane
Authors: Deng Xiao , Xu Xiaofei , Wei Juzheng
Published: January 2020

The characterization of an extremely low profile patch antenna is studied which is loaded with periodic diamond metasurface ground plane. Compared with conventional patch antenna, the new antenna has a smaller patch size, increased bandwidth, and enhanced efficiency. These performances are numerically investigated and optimized. By loading an optimal metasurface structure, a particular patch antenna is demonstrated in experiments. Measured results show that the metasurface antenna is in extremely low profile of 0.0045λ0. The patch length is 0.245λ0 or 0.36λg which is far beyond the 0.5λg limitation associated with a conventional prototype. In addition, the metasurface antenna has an impedance bandwidth of 1.83% and radiation efficiency of 83% in measurement. These two parameters are observed to be limited at level of 0.69% and 69%, respectively for a conventional patch antenna.
Extrapolation methods for fixed‐point multilinear PageRank computations
Authors: Cipolla Stefano , Redivo‐Zaglia Michela , Tudisco Francesco
Published: January 2020

Nonnegative tensors arise very naturally in many applications that involve large and complex data flows. Due to the relatively small requirement in terms of memory storage and number of operations per step, the (shifted) higher order power method is one of the most commonly used technique for the computation of positive Z‐eigenvectors of this type of tensors. However, unlike the matrix case, the method may fail to converge even for irreducible tensors. Moreover, when it converges, its convergence rate can be very slow. These two drawbacks often make the computation of the eigenvectors demanding or unfeasible for large problems. In this work, we consider a particular class of nonnegative tensors associated with the multilinear PageRank modification of higher order Markov chains. Based on the simplified topological ε‐algorithm in its restarted form, we introduce an extrapolation‐based acceleration of power method type algorithms, namely, the shifted fixed‐point method and the inner‐outer method. The accelerated methods show remarkably better performance, with faster convergence rates and reduced overall computational time. Extensive numerical experiments on synthetic and real‐world datasets demonstrate the advantages of the introduced extrapolation techniques.
History of Cardiovascular Disease, Intensive Lifestyle Intervention, and Cardiovascular Outcomes in the Look AHEAD Trial
Authors:   Look AHEAD Research Group, Lewis Cora E. , Bantle John P. , Bertoni Alain G. , Blackburn George , Brancati Frederick L. , Bray George A. , Cheskin Lawrence J. , Curtis Jeffrey M. , Egan Caitlin , Evans Mary , Foreyt John P. , Ghazarian Siran , Barone Gibbs Bethany , Glasser Stephen P. , W. Gregg Edward , Hazuda Helen P. , Hesson Louise , Hill James O. , Horton Edward S. , Hubbard Van S. , Jakicic John M. , Jeffery Robert W. , Johnson Karen C. , Kahn Steven E. , Kitabchi Abbas E. , Kitzman Dalane , Knowler William C. , Lipkin Edward , Michaels Sara , Montez Maria G. , Nathan David M. , Nyenwe Ebenezer , Patricio Jennifer , Peters Anne , Pi‐Sunyer Xavier , Pownall Henry , Reboussin David M. , Ryan Donna H. , Wadden Thomas A. , Wagenknecht Lynne E. , Wyatt Holly , Wing Rena R. , Yanovski Susan Z.
Published: January 2020

Objective

To examine the effects of an intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) on cardiovascular disease (CVD), the Action for Health in Diabetes (Look AHEAD) trial randomized 5,145 participants with type 2 diabetes and overweight/obesity to a ILI or diabetes support and education. Although the primary outcome did not differ between the groups, there was suggestive evidence of heterogeneity for prespecified baseline CVD history subgroups (interaction P = 0.063). Event rates were higher in the ILI group among those with a CVD history (hazard ratio 1.13 [95% CI: 0.90‐1.41]) and lower among those without CVD (hazard ratio 0.86 [95% CI: 0.72‐1.02]).

Methods

This study conducted post hoc analyses of the rates of the primary composite outcome and components, adjudicated cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and hospitalization for angina, as well as three secondary composite cardiovascular outcomes.

Results

Interaction P values for the primary and two secondary composites were similar (0.060‐0.064). Of components, the interaction was significant for nonfatal MI (P = 0.035). This interaction was not due to confounding by baseline variables, different intervention responses for weight loss and physical fitness, or hypoglycemic events. In those with a CVD history, statin use was high and similar by group. In those without a CVD history, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were higher (P = 0.003) and statin use was lower (P ≤ 0.001) in the ILI group.

Conclusions

Intervention response heterogeneity was significant for nonfatal MI. Response heterogeneity may need consideration in a CVD‐outcome trial design.
Quantitative analysis of flavonols, flavonol glycoside and homoisoflavonoids in Polygonatum verticillatum using UHPLC‐DAD‐QTOF‐IMS and evaluation of their antioxidant potential
Authors: Sharma Shruti , Joshi Robin , Kumar Dinesh
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Polygonatum is widely used as a part of food in different regions of the world which covers five main categories such as drinks, vegetables, snacks, staple and seasoning foods. Presently, no analytical method is available for the quality control of Polygonatum.

Objective

Development and validation of a method using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography diode array detector quadrupole time‐of‐flight (UHPLC‐DAD/QTOF) technique for the estimation of six compounds including a flavonol glycoside [rutin (1)], two flavonols [quercetin (2) and kaempherol (3)] and three homoisoflavonoids [5,7‐dihydroxy‐3‐(2‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzyl)‐chroman‐4‐one (4), 5,7‐dihydroxy‐3‐(2‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzyl)‐8‐methylchroman‐4‐one (5) and 5,7‐dihydroxy‐3‐(4‐methoxybenzyl)‐8‐methylchroman‐4‐one (6)]. In addition, screening of extract, fractions and compounds of P. verticillatum for antioxidant activity was also determined.

Methodology

The separation was achieved on C‐18 column using acetonitrile and water containing 0.1% formic acid. The method was validated as per ICH (International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use) guidelines. The validated method was applied for the simultaneous identification and quantification of compounds 1–6 in extract (E) and fractions (F1–F4) of P. verticillatum. Furthermore, antioxidant potential of E, F1 and F2 and compounds was evaluated using DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl) assay.

Results

The method was within the linear range (r2) of 0.982 to 0.999, precise (intra‐ and inter‐day percentage relative standard deviations < 2.72 and 2.26) and accurate with recoveries (89.1–98.3%). The limit of detection and limit of quantification were in the ranges 0.02–0.16 and 0.06–0.48 ng/mL, respectively. Compounds 1–6 were quantified in all the samples. Compounds 1, 2 and 5 showed higher activity with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values 0.41, 0.39, 0.72 at 10, 20 and 30 μg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion

Developed method will be helpful to assess the quality of P. verticillatum raw material and their derived products.
Cyrano de Bergerac: Reise zum Mond und zur Sonne
Authors: Heydenreich Aura
Published: January 2020

Cyrano de Bergeracs Reise zum Mond (1657) und Reise zur Sonne (1662) gelten als literarische Schwellentexte, die exemplarisch für die entscheidenden Umbrüche stehen, die sich im Zuge des 17. Jahrhunderts in wissenschaftlicher und epistemologischer Hinsicht vollziehen. Die Texte wurden als Vorläufer für die Literatur der Aufklärung gelesen, als soziale Utopien, aber auch als Satiren, die sich mit den gesellschaftspolitischen Zuständen ihrer Zeit kritisch auseinandersetzen.
Continuous intravenous to oral morphine switch in very premature ventilated infants: A retrospective study on efficacy, efficiency, and tolerability
Authors: Duong Phoï , Tauzin Manon , Decobert Fabrice , Marchand Laetitia , Caeymaex Laurence , Durrmeyer Xavier
Published: January 2020

Background

Continuous intravenous (IV) morphine is commonly used in ventilated neonates. Oral route is theoretically feasible but data on oral morphine in ventilated premature infants are lacking.

Objective

To assess the efficacy, efficiency, and tolerability of a continuous intravenous to oral morphine switch protocol.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Single level III center's neonatal intensive care unit.

Patients

Ventilated premature infants hospitalized in the NICU in 2016 and 2017, receiving continuous IV morphine with an expected ventilation course of at least 72 more hours. We excluded patients treated for withdrawal syndrome or palliative care.

Interventions

Continuous IV to oral morphine switch with the same initial cumulated daily dose.

Main outcome measures

Pain scores (ComfortNeo scale) and morphine doses were analyzed over time using Friedman's test in the 24 hours preceding and the 48 hours following the oral switch. Adverse effects attributable to opioids were collected.

Results

Seventeen infants were included with a median [IQR] gestational age at birth of 25.9 [24.6‐26.9] weeks and a median postnatal age at oral switch of 30 [22‐36] days. One patient's intravenous treatment had to be resumed because of a high ComfortNeo score. All others remained on oral morphine. No significant change over time was observed for ComfortNeo scores (P = .15). Median [IQR] doses were 13.5 [10‐20] µg/kg/h in the IV period and significantly increased to 15 [10‐25] µg/kg/h in the oral period (P = .009). No short‐term respiratory, digestive, or urinary adverse event was observed. After a median [IQR] duration of 13 [4‐20] days of oral morphine treatment, 11 (65%) patients showed signs of withdrawal. Upon hospital discharge, 16 infants (94%) had bronchopulmonary dysplasia and none had severe cerebral abnormality on brain imaging.

Conclusion

Oral morphine might be useful in ventilated neonates in the NICU but deserves further studies and additional safety assessment.
Outcomes of a methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) eradication protocol in pediatric cystic fibrosis (CF) patients
Authors: Belarski Emily , Pettit Rebecca
Published: January 2020

Objective

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients have greatly increased in prevalence in the past two decades and may lead to a more rapid rate of lung function decline. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of a MRSA eradication protocol on long‐term culture results and clinical outcomes of pediatric CF patients in a real‐world setting.

Methods

This was a single‐center, retrospective study of children age 30 days to 17 years. Eradication followed the STAR‐too study protocol. The primary outcome was the percent of patients with MRSA‐negative cultures at 12 months. Secondary outcomes were the percent of patients with negative cultures at 3, 6, and greater than 12 months and changes in clinical outcomes compared to individual baseline.

Results

Of the 55 patients who met inclusion criteria, 10 received protocol eradication. Baseline characteristics were similar between eradication and control groups except more eradication patients were on ivacaftor (30% vs 4%; P = .037). Two eradication patients did not receive rifampin due to ivacaftor use. Eradication did not significantly increase the percent of MRSA‐negative cultures at 3 months (P = .122), 6 months (P = .058), or 12 months (P = .108); however, did increase culture negativity at greater than 12 months (P = .008). Eradication resulted in no significant differences in clinical outcomes compared to control.

Conclusions

An extensive eradication protocol may lead to an increased clearance rate of long‐term CF respiratory cultures but does not appear to affect clinical outcomes. Eradication may be reasonable to attempt; however, more data is needed before routine recommendation in all patients.
Diagnostic and therapeutic value of pelvic lymph node dissection in the fossa of Marcille in patients with clinically localized high‐risk prostate cancer: Histopathological and molecular analyses
Authors: Bando Yukari , Hinata Nobuyuki , Terakawa Tomoaki , Furukawa Junya , Harada Kenichi , Nakano Yuzo , Fujisawa Masato
Published: January 2020

Background

The optimal extent of lymph node dissection in radical prostatectomy has not been determined. Lymph nodes in the fossa of Marcille, which is an important pelvic lymphatic pathway and candidate for additional dissection, have not been evaluated at the molecular level. Here, we assessed by molecular analysis the presence of occult positive lymph nodes in the fossa of Marcille in patients with clinically localized high‐risk prostate cancer.

Methods

Fifty‐two patients with clinically localized high‐risk prostate cancer underwent pelvic lymph node dissection accompanied by robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy. All nodal packets were dissected separately and grouped into right and left obturator, external and internal iliac regions (including common iliac region to ureter crossing), and fossa of Marcille. All lymph nodes were bisected and evaluated by histopathological or molecular analysis using a quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. The number of positive lymph nodes in the fossa of Marcille and the difference in detection rate were investigated using histopathological and molecular analyses. Perioperative complication rate and predictive factors for biochemical recurrence were evaluated.

Results

In the molecular analysis, there were seven positive lymph nodes in the fossa of Marcille in three patients, which were coexistent with positive nodes in other regions. The detection rate of positive lymph nodes was significantly higher using molecular than histopathological analysis (P < .01). Perioperative complication rate within 90 days after the operation was 25.0% and no Clavien‐Dindo grade ≥3 complication was confirmed. Detection of metastasis by histopathological and molecular analysis was a significant factor related to biochemical recurrence in the Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Conclusions

No case of positive lymph nodes in the fossa of Marcille that had skipped over other regions was confirmed. Additional lymph node dissection of fossa of Marcille did not lead to complete resection of molecularly positive lymph nodes.
Editorial: Transnational youth mobilities: Emotions, inequities, and temporalities
Authors: Cheung Judge Ruth , Blazek Matej , Esson James
Published: January 2020

This editorial outlines a research agenda for critical exploration of transnational youth mobilities centred on three concepts: emotions, inequity, and temporality. This agenda offers novel perspectives on the interplay between geographies of social difference and the multiscalar forces governing and being made through mobility. Emotions advance theorisations of agency by providing a generative lens to examine how aspirations, social relationships, and political subjectivities intersect to inform young people's lifeworlds and mobilities. Critical analyses of how youth navigate challenging structural conditions are shown to be sharpened by considering the mutually constitutive nature of inequity and (im)mobility. A temporal lens reveals how youth mobilities are driven, experienced, and shaped by structural and social dynamics including, but not limited to, precarity, border regimes, and intergenerationality. We conclude by charting how further explorations into the diverse emotions and temporalities of youth mobility, centred on questions of inequity, can significantly advance scholarly debates within and beyond population geography.
Räumliche Effekte in elastischen Stößen von Kugeln
Authors: Willert Emanuel
Published: January 2020

In diesem Kapitel werden zwei Aspekte genauer untersucht, deren Einflüsse bei der Vereinfachung der Bewegungsgleichungen zweier räumlich zusammenstoßender Kugeln in Abschn. 2.2.1 als vernachlässigbar klein verworfen wurden. Dies betrifft einerseits einige dynamische Effekte durch die Rotation der Stoßachse (und deren Einfluss auf die Kontaktmechanik) und andererseits die torsionale Komponente des Stoßproblems.
The role of carotid stenosis ultrasound scale in the prediction of ischemic stroke
Authors: Tang Yi , Wang Ming-yu , Wu Tao-tao , Zhang Jian-yu , Yang Ru , Zhang Bo , Shi Ying , Meng Pin , Ji Niu , Sun Yongan , Xu Ying-da , Xu Bing-chao , Zhou Xin-yu , He Xiao-bing , Zhang Guang-hui , Niu Xiao-qin , Li Zai-po , Wang Bei , Xu Bei , Cai Zeng-lin , Zhang Yong-jin , He Ming-li
Published: January 2020

Introduction

To improve the accuracy of ultrasound techniques for the assessment of carotid stenosis, we designed a novel carotid artery stenosis ultrasound scale (CASUS), and evaluated its accuracy, reliability, and its value in predicting the occurrence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in a prospective study.

Methods

A total of 750 patients with first-time ischemic stroke and hospitalized within 24 h were enrolled in the study. Using color Doppler ultrasound (CDUS), the degree of stenosis and blood flow (BF) in bilateral internal carotid arteries (ICA) and the V1-V3 segment of vertebral arteries (VA) was assessed. Cubic simulation curves for BF and global blood flow (GBF) over the stenosis score (SS), total stenosis score (TSS), and radiological imaging- total stenosis score (RI-TSS) were fitted and compared. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves using TSS, RI-TSS, or GBF to predict various ischemic stroke endpoints were also analyzed and compared.

Results

There was a linear relationship between SS and BF both ICA and VA (R2 were 0.734 and 0.783, respectively, both P < 0.05). Both TSS and RI-TSS with GBF showed an inverse “S” curve relationship (R2 was 0.839 and 0.843, all P < 0.05). The AUC values of TSS-based and RI-TSS-based predictions of each endpoint were all greater than 0.7 (all P < 0.05), but the differences of the AUC values between TSS, RI-TSS, and GBF were not statistically significant (all P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The novel CASUS can better reflect the level of cerebral reperfusion in patients with ischemic stroke and can better predict the occurrence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.
Continuous endoglin (CD105) overexpression disrupts angiogenesis and facilitates tumor cell metastasis
Authors: Ollauri-Ibáñez Claudia , Núñez-Gómez Elena , Egido-Turrión Cristina , Silva-Sousa Laura , Díaz-Rodríguez Elena , Rodríguez-Barbero Alicia , López-Novoa José M. , Pericacho Miguel
Published: January 2020

Endoglin (CD105) is an auxiliary receptor for members of the TFG-β superfamily. Whereas it has been demonstrated that the deficiency of endoglin leads to minor and defective angiogenesis, little is known about the effect of its increased expression, characteristic of several types of cancer. Angiogenesis is essential for tumor growth, so high levels of proangiogenic molecules, such as endoglin, are supposed to be related to greater tumor growth leading to a poor cancer prognosis. However, we demonstrate here that endoglin overexpression do not stimulate sprouting or vascularization in several in vitro and in vivo models. Instead, steady endoglin overexpression keep endothelial cells in an active phenotype that results in an impairment of the correct stabilization of the endothelium and the recruitment of mural cells. In a context of continuous enhanced angiogenesis, such as in tumors, endoglin overexpression gives rise to altered vessels with an incomplete mural coverage that permit the extravasation of blood. Moreover, these alterations allow the intravasation of tumor cells, the subsequent development of metastases and, thus, a worse cancer prognosis.
Overexpression of OsSPL14 results in transcriptome and physiology changes in indica rice ‘MH86’
Authors: Lian Ling , Xu Huibin , Zhang Hui , He Wei , Cai Qiuhua , Lin Yuelong , Wei Linyan , Pan Liyan , Xie Xiaoping , Zheng Yanmei , Wei Yidong , Zhu Yongsheng , Xie Huaan , Zhang Jianfu
Published: January 2020

Oryza sativa SPL14 (OsSPL14), identified as the IDEAL PLANT ARCHITECTURE1 or WEALTHY FARMER’S PANICLE gene, plays a critical role in regulating rice plant architecture. Here, OsSPL14-overexpression transgenic rice plants had shorter growth periods, short narrow flag leaves, and thick green leaves compared with wild type ‘MH86’ plants (WT). Additionally, transgenic lines had higher chlorophyll a (Chl a), chlorophyll b (Chl b), and carotenoid (Car x) contents at both seedling and mature stages. Expression of OsSPL14 increased at transcriptional level, and OsSPL14 protein level was substantially increased in transgenic lines relative to WT. A transcriptome analysis identified 473 up-regulated and 103 down-regulated genes in the transgenic plants. The expression of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in carotenoid biosynthesis, abscisic acid (ABA) metabolism, and lignin biosynthesis increased significantly. Most of DEGs participated in “plant hormone signal transduction” and “starch and sucrose metabolism” were also up-regulated in the transgenic plants. In addition, there were higher ABA and gibberellin acid 3 (GA3) levels in OsSPL14-overexpression rice plants at seedling and tillering stages compared with WT. In contrast with that of WT, lignin and cellulose contents of culm increased distinctly. Also, silicon and potassium contents increased dramatically in transgenic lines. Meanwhile, the chalkiness ratios and chalkiness degrees decreased, and the gel consistency levels improved in transgenic lines. Thus, overexpression of OsSPL14 influenced growth period, leaf development, hormonal levels, culm composition, and grain quality characters of rice, which provides more insight into the function of OsSPL14.
Macroalgal vegetation on a north European artificial reef (Loch Linnhe, Scotland): biodiversity, community types and role of abiotic factors
Authors: Tsiamis Konstantinos , Salomidi Maria , Gerakaris Vasilis , Mogg Andrew O. M. , Porter Elizabeth S. , Sayer Martin D. J. , Küpper Frithjof C.
Published: January 2020

Very little is known about the marine macroalgae of artificial reefs—especially in the North Atlantic—despite the growing number and extent of man-made structures in the sea, and even though seaweed communities have paramount importance as primary producers, but also as feeding, reproductive and nursery grounds in coastal ecosystems. This paper explores the macroalgal diversity of a large system of artificial reefs in Loch Linnhe, on the west coast of Scotland, in a quantitative and qualitative study based on diving surveys and correlates the observations with the prevalent abiotic factors. The study was conducted in order to test the hypothesis that artificial reefs can enhance seaweed habitats—in particular, for kelps—and that there is a clear correlation with substrate type. While the reef is home to a large range of biota and abundance of early-successional species of turf and bushy macroalgae, totalling 56 taxa and withDelesseria sanguineaas the dominant species, canopy-forming perennial kelp species are conspicuously relatively rare. Macroalgal vegetation is explored in correlation with reef geometry/geography and depth. Statistical analysis shows benthic communities were strongly affected by substrate type, with turf algae and invertebrates dominating the artificial reefs, while bushy algae dominate the natural ones. Common macroinvertebrates associated with the phytobenthic communities are assessed qualitatively.
QoE of cross-modally mapped Mulsemedia: an assessment using eye gaze and heart rate
Authors: Mesfin Gebremariam , Hussain Nadia , Kani-Zabihi Elahe , Covaci Alexandra , Saleme Estêvão B. , Ghinea Gheorghita
Published: January 2020

A great deal of research effort has been put in exploring crossmodal correspondences in the field of cognitive science which refer to the systematic associations frequently made between different sensory modalities (e.g. high pitch is matched with angular shapes). However, the possibilities cross-modality opens in the digital world have been relatively unexplored. Therefore, we consider that studying the plasticity and the effects of crossmodal correspondences in a mulsemedia setup can bring novel insights about improving the human-computer dialogue and experience. Mulsemedia refers to the combination of three or more senses to create immersive experiences. In our experiments, users were shown six video clips associated with certain visual features based on color, brightness, and shape. We examined if the pairing with crossmodal matching sound and the corresponding auto-generated haptic effect, and smell would lead to an enhanced user QoE. For this, we used an eye-tracking device as well as a heart rate monitor wristband to capture users’ eye gaze and heart rate whilst they were experiencing mulsemedia. After each video clip, we asked the users to complete an on-screen questionnaire with a set of questions related to smell, sound and haptic effects targeting their enjoyment and perception of the experiment. Accordingly, the eye gaze and heart rate results showed significant influence of the cross-modally mapped multisensorial effects on the users’ QoE. Our results highlight that when the olfactory content is crossmodally congruent with the visual content, the visual attention of the users seems shifted towards the correspondent visual feature. Crosmodally matched media is also shown to result in an enhanced QoE compared to a video only condition.
Statistical measurement of trees’ similarity
Authors: Sabbaghan Sahar , Chua Cecil Eng Huang , Gardner Lesley A.
Published: January 2020

Diagnostic theories are fundamental to Information Systems practice and are represented in trees. One way of creating diagnostic trees is by employing independent experts to construct such trees and compare them. However, good measures of similarity to compare diagnostic trees have not been identified. This paper presents an analysis of the suitability of various measures of association to determine the similarity of two diagnostic trees using bootstrap simulations. We find that three measures of association, Goodman and Kruskal’s Lambda, Cohen’s Kappa, and Goodman and Kruskal’s Gamma (J Am Stat Assoc 49(268):732–764, 1954) each behave differently depending on what is inconsistent between the two trees thus providing both measures for assessing alignment between two trees developed by independent experts as well as identifying the causes of the differences.