bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiomics characterization of mesenchymal stromal cells cultured in monolayer and as aggregates
Authors: Doron Gilad , Klontzas Michail E. , Mantalaris Athanasios , Guldberg Robert E. , Temenoff Johnna S.
Published: February 2020

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have failed to consistently demonstrate their therapeutic efficacy in clinical trials, due in part to variability in culture conditions used for their production. Of various culture conditions used for MSC production, aggregate culture has been shown to improve secretory capacity (a putative mechanism of action in vivo) compared with standard monolayer culture. The purpose of this study was to perform multiomics characterization of MSCs cultured in monolayer and as aggregates to identify aspects of cell physiology that differ between these culture conditions to begin to understand cellular‐level changes that might be related to secretory capacity. Targeted secretome characterization was performed on multiple batches of MSC‐conditioned media, while nontargeted proteome and metabolome characterization was performed and integrated to identify cellular processes differentially regulated between culture conditions. Secretome characterization revealed a reduction in MSC batch variability when cultured as aggregates. Proteome and metabolome characterization showed upregulation of multiple protein and lipid metabolic pathways, downregulation of several cytoskeletal processes, and differential regulation of extracellular matrix synthesis. Integration of proteome and metabolome characterization revealed individual lipid metabolites and vesicle‐trafficking proteins as key features for discriminating between culture conditions. Overall, this study identifies several aspects of MSC physiology that are altered by aggregate culture. Further exploration of these processes and pathways is needed to determine their potential role in regulating cell secretory capacity.
Evaluation of nine active components of Lu‐Jiao Fang in normal and hypertrophic rat myocardia via LC–MS/MS
Authors: Ma Jing‐ya , Shi Xiao‐li , Liu Li , Xu Guang‐lin , Zhang Jian‐wei
Published: February 2020

Lu‐Jiao Fang (LJF), a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, can improve the cardiac function of chronic heart failure (CHF) patients; however, knowledge about the cardiac distribution of LJF, especially in CHF animal models, is rather limited. This work aimed to explore the cardiac distribution of LJF in pressure overload‐induced CHF rats at the last gavage administration of LJF after 30 weeks of treatment. LC–MS/MS methods for analyzing nine active components (i.e. loganin, hesperidin, epimedin C, icariin, psoralen, isopsoralen, baohuoside I, morroniside and specnuezhenide) of LJF in cardiac tissue samples were established, and the components were then analyzed in left ventricular wall (LVW) and right ventricular wall (RVW) in parallel at same time point postdose for three dose groups. The results showed that most analytical component levels in LVW (hypertrophic myocardium) were only 39–74% of those in RVW (normal myocardium); however, psoralen and isopsoralen levels in LVW were equal to or even greater than the levels in RVW, suggesting that the hypertrophic myocardium tissue affinity of psoralen and isopsoralen might overcome the negative effect of decreased blood flow on distribution. This study indicated that the pathological state may influence drug distribution, and the efficacy of psoralen and isopsoralen for improving CHF deserves further investigation.
Evaluation of the role of stress in patients with breast cancer and depression by paykel's life event and adaptive neuro‐fuzzy approach
Authors: Cvetković Jovana , Ivanović Kovačevic Svetlana , Cvetkovic Milan , Cvetkovic Slavica
Published: February 2020

Introduction

The aim of this study was to identify and analyze the stress factors and the level of stress a year preceding the onset of breast cancer and depression in the studied female patients.

Methods

The research in this work was mostly prospectively (clinical and analytical). During the research, Scale of Life Events‐Paykel was applied. Stressful life events differed significantly between the groups. In the studied group, the following events were significantly more prevalent: partner infidelity (χ2 = 12.663;p < .001), failure at work (χ2 = 44.429;p < .001), and spontaneous abortions or stillbirths (χ2 = 13.818;p < .001).

Results

According to the results of this study, stressful life events differed significantly between the observed groups. These stressful life events had a significant impact on the increase of risk for breast cancer, as well as on depressivity. Afterward, adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference system was used for prediction of the Paykel's Life Event according to Fisher's exact test.

Conclusion

The obtained results could be of practical usage for improving stress behavior of the patients with breast cancer and depression.
Expression of human Krüppel‐like factor 3 in peripheral blood as a promising biomarker for acute leukemia
Authors: Yan Miao , Liu Huihui , Xu Junhui , Cen Xinan , Wang Qian , Xu Weilin , Wang Wensheng , Qiu Zhixiang , Ou Jinping , Dong Yujun , Zhu Ping , Ren Hanyun , He Fuchu , Wang Mangju
Published: February 2020

Background

Universal gene targets are in persistent demand by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR)‐based methods in acute leukemia (AL) diagnosis and monitoring. Human Krüppel‐like factor 3 (hKLF3), a newly cloned human transcription factor, has proved to be a regulator of hematopoiesis.

Methods

Sanger sequencing was performed in bone marrow (BM) samples from 17 AL patients for mutations in hKLF3 coding exons. hKLF3 expression in peripheral blood (PB) and BM samples from 45 AL patients was dynamically detected by RT‐qPCR. PB samples from 31 healthy donors were tested as normal controls.

Results

No mutation was sequenced in hKLF3 coding exons. hKLF3 expression in PB of AL was significantly lower than that in healthy donors [0.30 (0.02‐1.07) vs 1.18 (0.62‐3.37), P < .0001]. Primary acute myeloid leukemia (AML) exhibited the least expression values compared with secondary AML and acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses suggested that hKLF3 expression in PB was a good marker for AML diagnosis with an AUC of 0.99 (95% CI 0.98‐1.00) and an optimum cutoff value of 0.67 (sensitivity 93.94% and specificity 93.55%). hKLF3 expression was upregulated significantly when AML patients acquired morphological complete remission (CR), and the level of hKLF3 seemed to be higher in patients with deeper CR than in patients with minimal residual disease (MRD). Paired PB and BM samples showed highly consistent alteration in hKLF3 expression (r = .6533, P = .001). Besides, a significantly converse correlation between decreased hKLF3 expression in PB and markers for leukemic load was observed.

Conclusions

hKLF3 expression in PB may act as a potential marker for AL diagnosis and monitoring.
Novel risk group stratification for metastatic urothelial cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Shabto Julie M. , Martini Dylan J. , Liu Yuan , Ravindranathan Deepak , Brown Jacqueline , Hitron Emilie E. , Russler Greta A. , Caulfield Sarah , Kissick Haydn , Alemozaffar Mehrdad , Ogan Kenneth , Harris Wayne B. , Master Viraj A. , Kucuk Omer , Carthon Bradley C. , Bilen Mehmet A.
Published: February 2020

Background

We developed a novel risk scoring system for urothelial cancer (UC) patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of 67 UC patients treated with ICI at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University from 2015 to 2018. Using stepwise variable selection in Cox proportional hazard model and Sullivan's weighting schema, baseline platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), presence of liver metastasis, baseline albumin, and baseline Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) were used for risk scoring. Patients were categorized into good risk (risk score 0‐1), intermediate risk (risk score 2‐3), and poor risk (risk score 4‐6). Univariable (UVA) and multivariable analysis (MVA) and Kaplan‐Meier method were used to assess overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS).

Results

The Emory Risk Scoring System had C‐statistics of 0.74 (Standard Error = 0.047) in predicting OS and 0.70 (Standard Error = 0.043) in predicting PFS. Compared to good risk patients, poor risk patients had significantly shorter OS and PFS in both UVA and MVA (all P < .001), and intermediate risk patients had significantly shorter OS and PFS in both UVA and MVA (all P < .03).

Conclusions

Risk scoring using baseline PLR, presence of liver metastasis, baseline albumin, and baseline ECOG PS may effectively predict OS and PFS in UC patients receiving ICI.
Postoperative intensity‐modulated radiation therapy reduces local recurrence and improves overall survival in III‐N2 non‐small‐cell lung cancer: A single‐center, retrospective study
Authors: Wei Wei , Zhou Jiao , Zhang Qun , Liao De‐Hua , Liu Qiao‐Dan , Zhong Bei‐Long , Liang Zi‐Bin , Zhang Yong‐Chang , Jiang Rong , Liu Gui‐Yun , Xu Chen‐Yang , Li Zhou Huai‐ , Zhu Su‐Yu , Yang Nong , Jiang Wen , Liu Zhi‐Gang
Published: February 2020

Purpose

To determine the postoperative effects of radiotherapy (PORT) on the local recurrence‐free survival (LRFS) and overall survival (OS) of stage III‐N2 non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Materials and Methods

183 patients with resected stage III‐pN2 NSCLC from Hunan Cancer Hospital between 2013 and 2016 were divided into two groups for postoperative chemotherapy (POCT) (n = 105) or combination chemotherapy and radiotherapy (POCRT) (n = 78). The LRFS and OS were compared and the factors affecting local recurrence were illustrated in these two groups. The sites of failure based on the lobe of the primary tumor in two groups were described.

Results

PORT leads to a strikingly lower risk for local recurrence and brought superior OS benefit. For different pN2 Subclassification, Patients with multiple‐station pN2 ± pN1 disease had the worst LRFS (11 months) and single‐station pN2 + multiple station pN1 disease had a relatively short LRFS (24 months) in group POCT. Short LRFS is correlated with multiple‐station pN2, older age (Y > 55), patients with a high positive LN ratio > 1/3 and a poor tumor histological differentiation degree. In group POCT, the most frequent failure site occurs at the ipsilateral hilum (21.0%), the bronchial stump (20.0%), followed by LNs4R (19.0%), LNs4L (18.1%), LNs7 (15.2%), most of left‐sided tumors more frequently involved the contralateral mediastinum, whereas the ipsilateral recurrences dominated for right‐sided tumors, especially for LNs4R. In group POCRT, the highest failure site was the bronchial stump (11.5%), followed by LNs4L (8.97%), LNs1 (7.69%), the ipsilateral hilum (6.41%) and LNs4R (6.41%).

Conclusion

PORT remarkably reduced local recurrence and improved OS in stage III‐pN2 NSCLC, especially in the multiple‐station pN2 group.
Postnatal exposure to finasteride causes different effects on the prostate of male and female gerbils
Authors: Maldarine Juliana S. , Sanches Bruno D. A. , Santos Vitória A. , Cabral Ágata S. , Lima Maria L. D. , Bedolo Carolina M. , Calmon Marília F. , Rahal Paula , Góes Rejane M. , Vilamaior Patricia S. L. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: February 2020

The development and maintenance of prostate function depend on a fine balance between oestrogen and androgen levels. Finasteride inhibits 5α‐reductase, which is responsible for the conversion of testosterone into its most active form, dihydrotestosterone. Enzymes that metabolize these hormones have a highly relevant role in both the normal prostate metabolism and in the occurrence of pathological conditions. There are few studies on the impact of finasteride on male prostate development and fewer studies on the female prostate and possible intersexual differences. Therefore, we treated male and female gerbils from 7 to 14 days in postnatal life with a high dose of finasteride (500 μg/kg/day); the prostate complexes were then removed and submitted to immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and three‐dimensional reconstruction. In addition, hormonal serum dosages were administered. Treatment with finasteride resulted in an increased thickness of the periductal smooth musculature in the prostate of both male and female gerbils, such as well as a reduction in the thickness of developing prostate alveoli in both sexes. In addition, intersexual differences were observed as increased epithelial proliferation and decreases in the number of developing alveoli in females. Together, the data indicate that postnatal exposure to finasteride causes greater changes in the female gerbil prostate than in the male.
Self‐Assembly of Semiconductor Quantum Dots using Organic Templates
Authors: Yamauchi Mitsuaki , Masuo Sadahiro
Published: February 2020

Colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals, known as quantum dots (QDs), are regarded as brightly photoluminescent nanomaterials possessing outstanding photophysical properties, such as high photodurability and tunable absorption and emission wavelengths. Therefore, QDs have great potential for a wide range of applications, such as in photoluminescent materials, biosensors and photovoltaic devices. Since the development of synthetic methods for accessing high‐quality QDs with uniform morphology and size, various types of QDs have been designed and synthesized, and their photophysical properties dispersed in solutions and at the single QD level have been reported in detail. In contrast to dispersed QDs, the photophysical properties of assembled QDs have not been revealed, although the structures of the self‐assemblies are closely related to the device performance of the solid‐state QDs. Therefore, creating and controlling the self‐assembly of QDs into well‐defined nanostructures is crucial but remains challenging. In this Minireview, we discuss the notable examples of assembled QDs such as dimers, trimers and extended QD assemblies achieved using organic templates. This Minireview should facilitate future advancements in materials science related to the assembled QDs.
Between a rock and a hard place: Associations between Mentzos' “dilemma”, self‐reported interpersonal problems, and psychosocial functioning in individuals with non‐affective psychoses
Authors: Stuke Frauke , Bröcker Anna‐Lena , Bayer Samuel , Heinz Andreas , Bermpohl Felix , Lempa Günter , von Haebler Dorothea , Montag Christiane
Published: February 2020

Primary aim of this study was to determine the extent and type of self‐reported interpersonal problems in patients with non‐affective psychoses and their impact on psychosocial functioning. Furthermore, we aimed to explore potential links with the psychodynamic construct of Stavros Mentzos' “psychotic dilemma”, which describes an insufferable inner tension caused by an individual's struggle of being torn between “self‐oriented” and “object‐oriented” tendencies.

In a cross‐sectional study among 129 patients with non‐affective psychoses, measures of cognition, symptom load and social functioning as well as a tentative, psychodynamic assessment of Mentzos' “dilemma” were obtained during a clinical research visit. Self‐report data on interpersonal problems were gathered using the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems (IIP‐64D) and compared with a German representative standard sample. Second, IIP‐64D scores were compared between groups with or without Mentzos' “dilemma”. Hierarchical regression analyses were performed to test for the impact of interpersonal problems on psychosocial functioning, while controlling for cognitive deficits and psychopathology.

Results showed that IIP‐64D scores differed significantly from healthy controls, except for “self‐centred” and “intrusive” interpersonal styles. Participants with a potential “psychotic dilemma” scored significantly higher on the subscales: “domineering”, “self‐centred”, “cold”, and “socially avoidant” than the group without a “psychotic dilemma”. The total amount of interpersonal problems, and particularly high scores on the IIP‐64D “socially avoidant” subscale, predicted psychosocial dysfunction, whereas a “cold” interpersonal style had an opposite effect.

In conclusion, specific interpersonal problems may predict psychotherapeutic outcome measures like psychosocial functioning and are partly compatible with the psychodynamic construct of Stavros Mentzos' “psychotic dilemma”.
Interfacial Photoelectrochemical Catalysis: Solar‐Induced Green Synthesis of Organic Molecules
Authors: Hardwick Tomas , Qurashi Ahsanulhaq , Shirinfar Bahareh , Ahmed Nisar
Published: February 2020

Many oxidation and reduction reactions in conventional organic synthesis rely on harsh conditions, toxic or corrosive substances, and environmentally damaging chemicals. In addition, competing reactions may take place, some of which produce hazardous waste products and, therefore, reaction selectivity suffers. To overcome such synthetic drawbacks, an enormous effort is being devoted to find alternative processes that operate much more efficiently, requiring milder conditions to contribute to a greener economy and provide urgently needed new pathways with enhanced selectivity. Fortunately, there is a strategy that has attracted global interest from multiple disciplines that involves the use of sunlight to perform artificial photosynthesis, in which a photoelectrochemical cell splits water into hydrogen fuel, reduces CO2 into “solar” fuels, and more recently, convert organic chemicals into higher value products. Recently, photoanode and photocathode materials have emerged as useful tools to perform organic oxidations and reductions for the synthesis of important molecules, other than just hydrogen or oxygen. Whereas many studies have focused on the degradation of unwanted and dangerous chemicals, solar‐induced organic transformations have attracted much less attention. This Minireview summarizes some of latest research efforts in using photoelectrochemical cells to facilitate organic oxidation and reduction reactions to avoid valuable substances while avoiding toxic reagents and expensive precious metal catalysts. Future developments that will enable such technologies to broaden their scope are also considered.
Mindfulness and eating disorder psychopathology: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Sala Margarita , Shankar Ram Shruti , Vanzhula Irina A. , Levinson Cheri A.
Published: February 2020

Objective

Mindfulness is implicated in eating disorder (ED) psychopathology. However, this literature has not been synthesized to date. The current meta‐analysis examined the associations between mindfulness and ED psychopathology.

Methods

A total of 74 independent samples (effects = 576) were included. We used a multilevel random‐effects model to estimate summary study‐level effect sizes, and multilevel mixed‐effects models to examine moderator effects.

Results

Mindfulness was negatively associated with ED psychopathology (r = −.25, p < .001), both concurrently (r = −.25, p < .001) and prospectively (rs = −.22 to −.24, ps < .001). Associations were strongest for binge eating, emotional/external eating, and body dissatisfaction as well as the acting with awareness and nonjudging facets.

Discussion

Mindfulness may be an important process in ED psychopathology. Future research should prospectively and experimentally examine the relation between mindfulness and ED psychopathology.
Pregnancy outcomes in women with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Ante Zharmaine , Luu Thuy Mai , Healy‐Profitós Jessica , He Siyi , Taddeo Danielle , Lo Ernest , Auger Nathalie
Published: February 2020

Objective

Birth outcomes of women with anorexia nervosa are poorly understood. We hypothesized that hospitalization for anorexia nervosa before or during pregnancy is associated with an elevated risk of adverse maternal and infant birth outcomes.

Method

We performed a retrospective cohort study of 2,134,945 pregnancies in Quebec, Canada, from 1989 to 2016. The main exposure measure was anorexia nervosa requiring hospital treatment before or during pregnancy. Outcome measures included stillbirth, preterm birth, low birth weight, small‐for‐gestational age birth, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, cesarean delivery, and other pregnancy disorders. We computed risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between anorexia nervosa and birth outcomes adjusted for maternal characteristics.

Results

Compared with no hospitalization, anorexia nervosa hospitalization was associated with 1.99 times the risk of stillbirth (95% CI 1.20–3.30), 1.32 times the risk of preterm birth (95% CI 1.13–1.55), 1.69 times the risk of low birth weight (95% CI 1.44–1.99), and 1.52 times the risk of small‐for‐gestational age birth (95% CI 1.35–1.72). The associations with low birth weight and small‐for‐gestational age birth were more prominent in women hospitalized for anorexia nervosa during pregnancy or within 2 years of delivery. Hospitalization for anorexia nervosa was associated with certain maternal outcomes, including precipitate labor, acute liver failure, and admission to an intensive care unit.

Discussion

Hospitalization for anorexia nervosa before or during pregnancy is associated with adverse infant and maternal outcomes. Infants are primarily at risk of stillbirth, preterm birth, low birth weight, and small‐for‐gestational age birth.
Liana species decline in Congo basin contrasts with global patterns
Authors: Bongers Frans , Ewango Corneille E. N. , van der Sande Masha T. , Poorter Lourens
Published: February 2020

Lianas, woody climbing plants, are increasing in many tropical forests, with cascading effects such as decreased forest productivity, carbon sequestration, and resilience. Possible causes are increasing forest fragmentation, CO2 fertilization, and drought. Determining the primary changing species and their underlying vital rates help explain the liana trends. We monitored over 17,000 liana stems for 13 yr in 20 ha of old‐growth forest in the Congo Basin, and here we report changes and vital rates for the community and for the 87 most abundant species. The total liana abundance declined from 15,007 lianas in 1994 to 11,090 in 2001 to 9,978 in 2007. Over half (52%) of the evaluated species have significantly declining populations, showing that the community response is not the result of changes in a few dominant species only. Species density change (i.e., the change in number of individuals per hectare) decreased with mortality rate, tended to increase with recruitment rate, but was independent of growth rate. Species change was independent of functional characteristics important for plant responses to fragmentation, CO2, and drought, such as lifetime light requirements, climbing and dispersal mechanism, and leaf size. These results indicate that in Congo lianas do not show the reputed global liana increase, but rather a decline, and that elements of the reputed drivers underlying global liana change do not apply to this DR Congo forest. We suggest warfare in the Congo Basin to have decimated the elephant population, leading to less disturbance, forest closure, and declining liana numbers. Our results imply that, in this tropical forest, local causes (i.e., disturbance) override more global causes of liana change resulting in liana decline, which sharply contrasts with the liana increase observed elsewhere.
How to develop a national heart failure clinics network: a consensus document of the Hellenic Heart Failure Association
Authors:   The Task force of the Hellenic Heart Failure Clinics Network
Published: February 2020

Heart failure (HF) is rapidly growing, conferring considerable mortality, morbidity, and costs. Dedicated HF clinics improve patient outcomes, and the development of a national HF clinics network aims at addressing this need at national level. Such a network should respect the existing health care infrastructures, and according to the capacities of hosting facilities, it can be organized into three levels. Establishing the continuous communication and interaction among the components of the network is crucial, while supportive actions that can enhance its efficiency include involvement of multidisciplinary health care professionals, use of structured HF‐specific documents, such as discharge notes, patient information leaflets, and patient booklets, and implementation of an HF‐specific electronic health care record and database platform.
Cardiomyopathy and kidney function in agalsidase beta‐treated female Fabry patients: a pre‐treatment vs. post‐treatment analysis
Authors: Wanner Christoph , Feldt‐Rasmussen Ulla , Jovanovic Ana , Linhart Aleš , Yang Meng , Ponce Elvira , Brand Eva , Germain Dominique P. , Hughes Derralynn A. , Jefferies John L. , Martins Ana Maria , Nowak Albina , Vujkovac Bojan , Weidemann Frank , West Michael L. , Ortiz Alberto
Published: February 2020

Aims

Long‐term treatment effect studies in large female Fabry patient groups are challenging to design because of phenotype heterogeneity and lack of appropriate comparison groups, and have not been reported. We compared long‐term cardiomyopathy and kidney function outcomes after agalsidase beta treatment with preceding treatment‐naive outcomes.

Methods and results

Self‐controlled pretreatment and post‐treatment comparison (piecewise mixed linear modelling) included Fabry female patients ≥18 years at treatment initiation who received agalsidase beta (0.9–1.1 mg/kg every other week) for ≥2 years, with ≥2 pretreatment and ≥2 post‐treatment outcome measurements during 10‐year follow‐up. Left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPWT)/interventricular septal thickness (IVST) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration creatinine equation) analyses included 42 and 86 patients, respectively, aged 50.0 and 46.3 years at treatment initiation, respectively. LVPWT and IVST increased pretreatment (follow‐up 3.5 years) but stabilized during 3.6 years of treatment (LVPWT: n = 38, slope difference [95% confidence interval (CI)] = −0.41 [−0.68, −0.15] mm/year, Ppre–post difference <0.01; IVST: n = 38, slope difference = −0.32 [−0.67, 0.02] mm/year, Ppre–post difference = 0.07). These findings were not modified by renal involvement or antiproteinuric agent use. Compared with the treatment‐naive period (follow‐up 3.6 years), eGFR decline remained modest and stabilized within normal ranges during 4.1 years of treatment (slope difference, 95% CI: −0.13 [−1.15, 0.89] mL/min/1.73m2/year, Ppre–post difference = 0.80).

Conclusions

Cardiac hypertrophy, progressing during pretreatment follow‐up, appeared to stabilize during sustained agalsidase beta treatment. eGFR decline remained within normal ranges. This suggests that treatment may prevent further Fabry‐related progression of cardiomyopathy in female patients and maintain normal kidney function.
Nutritional status in tricuspid regurgitation: implications of transcatheter repair
Authors: Besler Christian , Unterhuber Matthias , Rommel Karl‐Philipp , Unger Elisabeth , Hartung Philipp , von Roeder Maximilian , Noack Thilo , Zachäus Markus , Halm Ulrich , Borger Michael , Desch Steffen , Thiele Holger , Lurz Philipp
Published: February 2020

Aims

To characterize the prevalence and clinical relevance of malnutrition in patients undergoing transcatheter tricuspid valve edge‐to‐edge repair (TTVR).

Methods and results

Overall, 86 consecutive patients (mean age 78 ± 7 years) with moderate‐to‐severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) at prohibitive surgical risk were analysed. Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), quality of life assessment, 6‐min walk test distance and laboratory analyses were performed before and 1 month after TTVR. A total of 43 patients (50%) underwent concomitant transcatheter mitral valve repair. According to MNA, 81 patients (94%) were malnourished or at risk of malnutrition before TTVR. Following TTVR, MNA improved in 64 patients (74%). As compared to patients without MNA improvement, patients with increased MNA score had greater reductions in TR [regurgitation volume −17.0 (interquartile range, IQR −25.0; −7.0) mL vs. −26.4 (IQR −40.3; −14.5) mL, P < 0.001] and inferior vena cava diameter. Only patients with increased MNA score displayed a decrease in N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide levels [−320 (IQR −1294; 105) pg/mL vs. +708 (IQR −342; 2708) pg/mL, P = 0.009], improvements in cholinesterase levels (0.0 ± 11.9 μmoL/L vs. +10.9 ± 16.7 μmoL/L, P < 0.001) and renal function during follow‐up. Beneficial effects on quality of life scores and 6‐min walk test distance following TTVR were observed exclusively in patients with improvement in MNA. During a median follow‐up of 6 months, patients with worsened MNA had an increased risk of death and rehospitalization for heart failure.

Conclusion

Nutritional impairment is common and of prognostic importance in patients undergoing TTVR. Hepatorenal function modestly improves after successful TTVR. Further study of extracardiac implications of TR‐associated right heart failure is warranted to improve care in this vulnerable patient population.
Randomized trial of a left ventricular assist device as destination therapy versus guideline‐directed medical therapy in patients with advanced heart failure. Rationale and design of the SWEdish evaluation of left Ventricular Assist Device (SweVAD) trial
Authors: Karason Kristjan , Lund Lars H. , Dalén Magnus , Björklund Erik , Grinnemo Karl , Braun Oscar , Nilsson Johan , van der Wal Henriette , Holm Jonas , Hübbert Laila , Lindmark Krister , Szabo Barna , Holmberg Erik , Dellgren Göran ,   the SweVAD Investigators
Published: February 2020

Aims

Patients with advanced heart failure (AdHF) who are ineligible for heart transplantation (HTx) can become candidates for treatment with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) in some countries, but not others. This reflects the lack of a systematic analysis of the usefulness of LVAD systems in this context, and of their benefits, limitations and cost‐effectiveness. The SWEdish evaluation of left Ventricular Assist Device (SweVAD) study is a Phase IV, prospective, 1:1 randomized, non‐blinded, multicentre trial that will examine the impact of assignment to mechanical circulatory support with guideline‐directed LVAD destination therapy (GD‐LVAD‐DT) using the HeartMate 3 (HM3) continuous flow pump vs. guideline‐directed medical therapy (GDMT) on survival in a population of AdHF patients ineligible for
HTx.

Methods

A total of 80 patients will be recruited to SweVAD at the seven university hospitals in Sweden. The study population will comprise patients with AdHF (New York Heart Association class IIIB–IV, INTERMACS profile 2–6) who display signs of poor prognosis despite GDMT and who are not considered eligible for HTx. Participants will be followed for 2 years or until death occurs. Other endpoints will be determined by blinded adjudication. Patients who remain on study‐assigned interventions beyond 2 years will be asked to continue follow‐up for outcomes and adverse events for up to 5 years.

Conclusion

The SweVAD study will compare survival, medium‐term benefits, costs and potential hazards between GD‐LVAD‐DT and GDMT and will provide a valuable reference point to guide destination therapy strategies for patients with AdHF ineligible for
HTx.
Trigonal‐Bipyramidal vs. Octahedral Coordination in Indium(III) Complexes with Potentially S,N,S‐Tridentate Thiosemicarbazones
Authors: Salsi Federico , Roca Jungfer Maximilian , Hagenbach Adelheid , Abram Ulrich
Published: February 2020

Three bis‐chelates of indium(III) with (partially fluorinated) S,N,S‐tridentate thiosemicarbazones (H2L) were prepared and their structures were studied in solution and in the solid state by NMR, ESI MS and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The three compounds are isostructural in solution with five‐coordinate InIII ions and two differently coordinated thiosemicarbazonato ligands, [In(L)(HL)]. A temperature‐dependent 1H NMR study reflects the presence of dynamic processes in the molecules such as the resolution of hindered rotation around CN bonds with partial double‐bond character and the pH‐triggered isomerization between 5‐ and 6‐coordinate species. The latter is confirmed by the isolation of compounds with different solid‐state structures, [In(L)(HL)] and [In(L)2]–, depending on fluorine‐substitutions in the periphery of the thiosemicarbazones.
Formic Acid Dehydrogenation by a Cyclometalatedκ3‐CNN Ruthenium Complex
Authors: Léval Alexander , Junge Henrik , Beller Matthias
Published: February 2020

Hydrogen utilization as a sustainable energy vector is of growing interest. We report herein a cyclometalated ruthenium complex [Ru(κ3‐CNN)(dppb)Cl], originally described by Baratta, to be active in the selective dehydrogenation (DH) of formic acid (FA) to H2and CO2. TON's of more than 10000 were achieved under best conditions without observation of CO (detection limit 10 ppm). The distinguished behavior of the catalyst was explored varying the starting conditions. Our observation revealed the complex [Ru(κ3‐CNN)(dppb)(OOCH)] as key species in the catalytic cycle.
Sea Buckthorn Oil Tocopherol Extraction's By‐Product Utilization in Green Synthesis of Polyurethane Coating
Authors: Prabhudesai Mayur S. , Paraskar Pavan M. , Kedar Rahul , Kulkarni Ravindra D.
Published: February 2020

The focus of the present study is to utilize a by‐product obtained during extraction of tocopherols, a valuable vitamin E compound, from sea buckthorn (SBT) oil and in doing so find a reliable alternative to petrochemical based polyols. Bio‐based polyurethane (PU) is prepared by using SBT oil based fatty acid methyl ester polyesteramide polyols (SBTPEP) with toluene diisocyanate (TDI). The fatty acid methyl ester is converted to the corresponding fatty amide by reaction with diethanolamine. The formed fatty amide is then esterified with phthalic anhydride to synthesize polyesteramide polyol. Characterization techniques used to evaluate polyesteramide polyol are Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and NMR. The cured PU coating is also put through various mechanical tests to analyze the physical properties. The cured PU coating shows good surface and mechanical properties. It shows a gloss value of 87.4 and passes impact, adhesion, and chemical resistance tests. It is hydrophobic which is evident from its contact angle of 100.2°. It has good thermal stability which is evident by its glass transition temperature of 53.9 °C. Use of phthalic anhydride contributes to the bio‐based characteristics of synthesized PU.

Practical Application: The present study presents a synthesis route which has minimal dependence on hazardous feedstock by utilization of green feedstock. The results obtained from physical and mechanical evaluations favor the use of this PU formulation in the coating sector. The adhesion and impact strength test results show potential application in the industrial sector coatings where the applied coat must be able to withstand high levels of physical stress and strain. The presence of aromatic rings and oil‐based moiety, that is the fatty acid hydrocarbon chain, contributes to the hydrophobic nature of the PU coating. Hydrophobic coatings have tremendous application in various fields such as marine coatings, automotive, electronics, and decorative coatings. These are potential fields of application for the synthesized green PU coating obtained from tocopherol extraction by‐products.
Challenges in the Processing Line of Spanish Style cv. Chalkidiki Green Table Olives Spontaneously Fermented in Reduced NaCl Content Brines
Authors: Mantzouridou Fani Th , Mastralexi Aspasia , Filippidou Maria , Tsimidou Maria Z.
Published: February 2020

In this work, the effect of different treatments using selected combinations of chloride salts (NaCl, KCl, CaCl2, MgCl2) in fermentation brine to assess the safety, quality, and nutritional value of the Spanish style cv. Chalkidiki green table olives spontaneously fermented is studied. Examination of safety parameters (bacteria/yeasts, pH, acidity) and changes in olive color and texture characteristics in brines during fermentation, and in mineral content of olives upon storage up to 12 months, is conducted using appropriate methods. Sensory evaluation takes place in certain cases. Among the tested salt combinations, those of 4.08% NaCl, 2.8% KCl, 1% CaCl2, and 0.12% MgCl2 (w/v) are found to be the most effective regarding safety, color, texture, and taste. Findings support that Spanish style cv. Chalkidiki green olives can be spontaneously fermented in reduced NaCl content brine. The 50% lower NaCl content of the fermented olives compared with that in traditionally fermented ones suggests that reformulation of cv. Chalkidiki green table olives by safe intervention is feasible.

Practical Applications: cv. Chalkidiki green table olives are of high importance for the Greek economy. Traditionally they are spontaneously fermented in NaCl brine (8% w/v). Partial replacement of NaCl content with other salts in such a line results in a product acceptable in terms of safety and quality characteristics. The Greek table olive industry may profit from the findings in an attempt to remodel the traditional spontaneous fermentation in green olive processing according to international dietary guidelines.
Brønsted Acid‐Catalyzed Intramolecular α‐Arylation of Ketones with Phenolic Nucleophiles via Oxy‐Allyl Cation Intermediates
Authors: Aota Yusuke , Doko Yuki , Kano Taichi , Maruoka Keiji
Published: February 2020

Nucleophilic addition to the oxy‐allyl cation intermediate has emerged as a promising methodology for functionalization of the α‐position of carbonyl compounds in an umpolung fashion. However, a structure of available carbon nucleophiles to trap the catalytically generated oxy‐allyl cation has been limited to highly nucleophilic ones. Herein, we report the Brønsted acid‐catalyzed α‐arylation of ketones employing less explored phenolic nucleophiles as carbon nucleophiles in the oxy‐allyl cation catalysis, affording ketones bearing an all carbon quaternary center at the α‐position.
Research on the failure process and stability control technology in a deep roadway: Numerical simulation and field test
Authors: Zang Chuanwei , Chen Miao , Zhang Guangchao , Wang Kun , Gu Dongdong
Published: February 2020

With the increase in mining depth and the deterioration of surrounding rock conditions, large deformation failure of deep roadway surrounding rock is still very common. To solve the support problem, it is necessary to understand the deformation and failure mechanism of the deep roadway. This paper presents a case study on the deformation failure behavior and support design of a deep roadway in the Tangyang mine by field tests and numerical simulations. The rock mass properties were first evaluated based on field data and the mechanical parameters of rock specimens. Then, the numerical model of the deep roadway surrounding rock was established based on the calibrated microparameters. The deformation features and cracking behavior of the roadway were investigated in detail. The results show that the cracking process of crack initiation, crack propagation, and rock separation in the surrounding rock of this kind of roadway is a gradual process developing from a shallow to deep depth. A combined support “bolt‐cable‐mesh‐steel ladder” was proposed based on the failure characteristics of the roadway. Finally, a numerical simulation and field experiment were conducted to evaluate the rationality of the proposed support scheme, and the results show that the new support method can effectively control the surrounding rock. This study can provide valuable references for support design in deep underground engineering.
New CCL|MPL Architecture Reducing Interfacial Gaps and Enhancing PEM Fuel Cell Performance
Authors: Daniel L. , Bonakdarpour A. , Sharman J. , Wilkinson D. P.
Published: February 2020

We demonstrate an enhanced new architecture for fuel cell membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs), by deposition of the microporous layer (MPL) directly on the catalyst coated membrane (CCM), in order to reduce any gaps at the cathode catalyst layer (CCL) surface. A low bonding temperature Teflon was used to allow low temperature sintering of the CCM with the MPL. This modified structure enhances PEMFC performance by improving the electronic contact and minimizing water pooling at the CCL|MPL interface. The improvement in water management at the CCL|MPL is beneficial especially for thinner CCLs to fulfill the performance demand with low cathode catalyst loading MEAs (≤0.125 mgPt cm−2 as targeted by the US Department of Energy).
Quantifying posterior effect size distribution of susceptibility loci by common summary statistics
Authors: Vsevolozhskaya Olga A. , Zaykin Dmitri V.
Published: February 2020

Testing millions of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genetic association studies has become a standard routine for disease gene discovery. In light of recent re‐evaluation of statistical practice, it has been suggested that p‐values are unfit as summaries of statistical evidence. Despite this criticism, p‐values contain information that can be utilized to address the concerns about their flaws. We present a new method for utilizing evidence summarized by p‐values for estimating odds ratio (OR) based on its approximate posterior distribution. In our method, only p‐values, sample size, and standard deviation for ln(OR) are needed as summaries of data, accompanied by a suitable prior distribution for ln(OR) that can assume any shape. The parameter of interest, ln(OR), is the only parameter with a specified prior distribution, hence our model is a mix of classical and Bayesian approaches. We show that our method retains the main advantages of the Bayesian approach: it yields direct probability statements about hypotheses for OR and is resistant to biases caused by selection of top‐scoring SNPs. Our method enjoys greater flexibility than similarly inspired methods in the assumed distribution for the summary statistic and in the form of the prior for the parameter of interest. We illustrate our method by presenting interval estimates of effect size for reported genetic associations with lung cancer. Although we focus on OR, the method is not limited to this particular measure of effect size and can be used broadly for assessing reliability of findings in studies testing multiple predictors.
Analysis of a magnetic field and Hall effects in nanoliquid flow under insertion of dust particles
Authors: Mahanthesh B. , Gireesha B. J. , Shehzad Sabir A. , Ibrar Nida , Thriveni K.
Published: February 2020

In this study, the two‐phase hydromagnetic flow of a viscous liquid through a suspension of dust and nanoparticles is considered. The influence of the Hall current is also taken into account. The similarity variables are utilized to transform the problem into one independent variable. The obtained expressions in one independent variable are solved through the Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg scheme connected with the shooting procedure. The computed results are sketched for employing multiple values of physical constraints on the temperature and velocity of the nanofluid and dust phase. The characterization of various nanoparticles like Cu, Al2O3, TiO2, and Ag on velocities and temperatures of both phases is made through plots. A comparative analysis in the limiting approach is presented to justify the present solution methodology. The range of emerging parameters is taken as 0 ≤ l ≤ 3, 0.1 ≤ βt ≤ 3, 0 ≤ m ≤ 2.5, 0 ≤ M2 ≤ 2, 0.1 ≤ βv ≤ 3, 0 ≤ ϕ ≤ 0.4, and −0.8 ≤ λ ≤ 0.8. From the study, it is revealed that βt has the opposite effect on the temperature of dust and nanofluid phases. The Hall parameter m raises the profiles of velocities in the nanoliquid and dust phases. Also, it is found that the transverse velocities h(η) and H((η) and temperatures θ(η) and θp(η) rise for larger ϕ.
Improvement of heat transfer through fins: A brief review of recent developments
Authors: Maji Ambarish , Choubey Gautam
Published: February 2020

Fins or extended surfaces are generally used in heat exchangers to enhance heat transfer between the main surface and ambient fluid. Various types of simple‐shaped fins, namely, rectangular, square, annular, cylindrical, and tapered, have been used with different geometrical combinations. To satisfy industrial demand, different trials have also been carried out for designing optimized fins. The optimization of fins can be performed either by enhancing heat dissipation at an exact fin weight or by diminishing the weight of the fin by precise heat dissipation. Recently a notable amount of work on some typical fins, like, porous fins and perforated fins, has also been carried out. This paper presents a brief review on heat transfer enhancement using fins of different types considering variable thermophysical and geometric parameters, which will also be useful for future use of geometrical modifications of extended surfaces, based on the cost and availability of space.
Synthesis, Structure and Magnetic Properties of Mn2Tb2 Tetranuclear Complex with p‐tert‐Butylthiacalix[4]arene
Authors: Aldoshin Sergey M. , Antipin Igor S. , Kniazeva Mariya V. , Korchagin Denis V. , Morgunov Roman B. , Ovsyannikov Alexander S. , Palii Andrey V. , Sanina Nataliya A. , Shilov Gennadiy V. , Solovieva Svetlana E.
Published: February 2020

A new tert‐buthylthiacalix[4]arene‐based tetranuclear 3d‐4f metal complex with the Mn2Tb2 core has been synthesized and its molecular and crystal structures have been studied by X‐ray diffraction. The complex geometry is similar to that of the earlier synthesized tert‐buthylthiacalix[4]arene‐based M2Ln2 complexes with M=Mn(II), Co(II), and Ln=Gd, Pr, Eu, but unlike those systems, it exhibits intricated cooperative low‐temperature magnetic properties arising from the presence of intercluster interactions. At T<8.5 K the complex shows weak spin‐canted ferromagnetism and field induced metamagnetic phase transition. The paramagnetic behavior observed at temperatures higher than 8.5 K is similar to that previously reported for the Mn2Gd2 complex, this being indicative of the existence of competitive ferro‐ and antiferromagnetic intracluster interactions.
Nanosilver composite pNIPAm microgels for the development of antimicrobial platelet‐like particles
Authors: Chee Eunice , Nandi Seema , Nellenbach Kimberly , Mihalko Emily , Snider Douglas B. , Morrill Landon , Bond Andrew , Sproul Erin , Sollinger Jennifer , Cruse Glenn , Hoffman Maureane , Brown Ashley C.
Published: February 2020

Platelets crucially facilitate wound healing but can become depleted in traumatic injury or chronic wounds. Previously, our group developed injectable platelet‐like particles (PLPs) comprised of highly deformable, ultralow crosslinked pNIPAm microgels (ULCs) coupled to fibrin binding antibodies to treat post‐trauma bleeding. PLP fibrin‐binding facilitates homing to sites of injury, promotes clot formation, and, due to high particle deformability, induces clot retraction. Clot retraction augments healing by increasing clot stability, enhancing clot stiffness, and promoting cell migration into the wound bed. Because post‐traumatic healing is often complicated by infection, the objective of these studies was to develop antimicrobial nanosilver microgel composite PLPs to augment hemostasis, fight infection, and promote healing post‐trauma. A key goal was to maintain particle deformability following silver incorporation to preserve PLP‐mediated clot retraction. Clot retraction, antimicrobial activity, hemostasis after trauma, and healing after injury were evaluated via confocal microscopy, colony‐forming unit assays, a murine liver trauma model, and a murine full‐thickness injury model in the absence or presence of infection, respectively. We found that nanosilver incorporation does not affect base PLP performance while bestowing significant antimicrobial activity and enhancing infected wound healing outcomes. Therefore, Ag‐PLPs have great promise for treating hemorrhage and improving healing following trauma.