bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Do Health Literacy, Numeric Competencies, and Patient Activation Relate to Transition Readiness in Adolescents and Young Adults With Rheumatic Diseases?
Authors: Lazaroff Samuel M. , Meara Alexa , Tompkins Mary Kate , Peters Ellen , Ardoin Stacy P.
Published: August 2018

Objective

To evaluate how demographics, health literacy, numeracy, and patient activation are related to transition readiness in adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients and to describe how parent/guardian (PG) performance on these metrics predicts AYA patients’ transition readiness.

Methods

In this single center, cross‐sectional study, consecutive English‐speaking AYA patients ages 17–21 years and PGs were recruited from outpatient rheumatology clinics. Participants completed the following self‐reported instruments: demographic questionnaire, Short Test of Fundamental Health Literacy, Objective Numeracy Scale, Subjective Numeracy Scale, Symbolic‐number mapping, Patient Activation Measure, and Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ; AYA patients only).

Results

Ninety‐one AYA patients participated in the study, of whom 64 of 91 (70%) had juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and 54 PGs. Mean ± SD TRAQ score was 4.0 ± 0.65, correlating with “I am starting to do this” stage of change. Most participants (98%) had adequate health literacy. Multivariable regression analysis showed that AYA patients of female sex, older age, and higher patient activation significantly predicted higher TRAQ scores (P < 0.05). No PG characteristics were linked to higher AYA patient TRAQ scores.

Conclusions

Transition readiness in AYA patients as measured by TRAQ is associated with female sex, older age, and higher patient activation. Though sex and age are nonmodifiable, interventions to boost patient activation represent a promising opportunity to improve transition readiness and outcomes.
Blue Te Nanoneedles with Strong NIR Photothermal and Laser‐Enhanced Anticancer Effects as “All‐in‐One” Nanoagents for Synergistic Thermo‐Chemotherapy of Tumors
Authors: Yu Nuo , Li Jinning , Wang Zhaojie , Yang Shuyan , Liu Zixiao , Wang Yanshu , Zhu Meifang , Wang Dengbin , Chen Zhigang
Published: August 2018

The conventional blue Te nanostructures exhibit strong photoabsorption in the near‐infrared (NIR) region but have ultralong lengths (tenths of micrometers), while purple Te nanostructures with short lengths (such as nanodots and nanorods) show extremely low intensity of the NIR band. These Te nanostructures cannot achieve simultaneously both the suitable size and high NIR absorption, undoubtedly hindering their bioapplication. Herein, blue Te nanoneedles are prepared through a facile one‐pot reduction route for the first time, and they have strong NIR absorbance while maintaining the shortened length (<500 nm). Compared to purple Te nanorods, blue Te nanoneedles have higher photothermal conversion efficiency using a 915 nm laser and exhibit laser‐enhanced antioxidative activity toward scavenging of free radicals. These blue nanoneedles show significant discrimination in cytotoxicity toward different cell‐lines, and demonstrate anticancer activity induced by mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, when blue Te nanoneedles are injected in tumors of mice, tumors can be detected by thermal/photoacoustic imaging, and satisfactory therapeutic effects are achieved through the synergistic thermo‐chemotherapy in contrast to the limited therapeutic effect of  Te‐alone treatment. Therefore, these blue Te nanoneedles can be served as a novel theranostic nanoagent for simultaneous multimodal imaging and synergistic thermo‐chemotherapy for tumors.
A Plesiohedral Cellular Network of Graphene Bubbles for Ultralight, Strong, and Superelastic Materials
Authors: Yeo Seon Ju , Oh Min Jun , Jun Hyun Min , Lee Minhwan , Bae Jung Gun , Kim Yeseul , Park Kyung Jin , Lee Seungwoo , Lee Daeyeon , Weon Byung Mook , Lee Won Bo , Kwon Seok Joon , Yoo Pil J.
Published: August 2018

Advanced materials with low density and high strength impose transformative impacts in the construction, aerospace, and automobile industries. These materials can be realized by assembling well‐designed modular building units (BUs) into interconnected structures. This study uses a hierarchical design strategy to demonstrate a new class of carbon‐based, ultralight, strong, and even superelastic closed‐cellular network structures. Here, the BUs are prepared by a multiscale design approach starting from the controlled synthesis of functionalized graphene oxide nanosheets at the molecular‐ and nanoscale, leading to the microfluidic fabrication of spherical solid‐shelled bubbles at the microscale. Then, bubbles are strategically assembled into centimeter‐scale 3D structures. Subsequently, these structures are transformed into self‐interconnected and structurally reinforced closed‐cellular network structures with plesiohedral cellular units through post‐treatment, resulting in the generation of 3D graphene lattices with rhombic dodecahedral honeycomb structure at the centimeter‐scale. The 3D graphene suprastructure concurrently exhibits the Young's modulus above 300 kPa while retaining a light density of 7.7 mg cm−3 and sustaining the elasticity against up to 87% of the compressive strain benefiting from efficient stress dissipation through the complete space‐filling closed‐cellular network. The method of fabricating the 3D graphene closed‐cellular structure opens a new pathway for designing lightweight, strong, and superelastic materials.
Concept, Theory, Design, and Applications of Spoof Surface Plasmon Polaritons at Microwave Frequencies
Authors: Tang Wen Xuan , Zhang Hao Chi , Ma Hui Feng , Jiang Wei Xiang , Cui Tie Jun
Published: August 2018

Surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) are highly localized surface waves that exist on the interface of two media with opposite permittivities at optical frequencies. To produce spoof SPPs at microwave or terahertz frequencies, plasmonic metamaterials have been proposed by making subwavelength structures on a metal surface. Spoof SPPs inherit the properties of natural SPPs, including dispersion characteristics, field confinement, and subwavelength resolution, and therefore are highly expected to offer new solutions for advanced circuits and systems with high integration, compact size, and excellent performance. In this article, the development of spoof SPPs in recent years is reviewed, focusing primarily on the basic concept, theory, design method, and applications in microwave engineering. First, the concept and theory of SPPs and spoof SPPs are introduced, along with development from bulky waveguides to ultrathin transmission lines (TLs) and the unique merits of this new type of TL. Then, the design method is studied, including the feeding strategy of spoof SPP TLs and the realization of reconfigurable spoof SPPs. Recent progress on the engineering realization of plasmonic circuits is also demonstrated, including passive SPP circuits, active SPP devices, and SPP antennas. Finally, the future directions and potential applications of microwave spoof SPPs are discussed.
High Contrast Detection of Water‐Filled Terahertz Nanotrenches
Authors: Jeong Jeeyoon , Yun Hyeong Seok , Kim Dasom , Lee Kang Sup , Choi Han‐Kyu , Kim Zee Hwan , Lee Sang Woon , Kim Dai‐Sik
Published: August 2018

The convergence of nano‐optics with an aqueous environment is promising for future chemical or biological applications. While the rapid development in nanofabrication has led to the realization of sub‐10 nm nanogaps of various structures, coupling water into high aspect ratio metallic nanogaps with a well‐defined area is not yet demonstrated. Here, arrays of 10 nm wide metallic trenches are reported filled with dielectric, air, liquid water, and various molecules in optical hotspots. Due to the high height‐to‐width aspect ratio of 20:1 and strong gap plasmon coupling in the 10 nm width, the trenches show distinct spectral changes at terahertz frequencies under changing gap materials, from which the full etching and water filling of the 10 nm gap can be unambiguously confirmed. A 75% transmitted amplitude decrease is observed through 200 nm deep trenches upon water filling, which converts to an effective 1100‐fold increase in the water absorption coefficient. The gap‐filling scheme can be applied to distinguish different liquids with 400 attoliters of volume or to detect rhodamine 6G molecules inside the gap with surface‐enhanced Raman scattering. Accordingly, the scheme can also be applied to a general class of polar organic molecules suitable for various biological or chemical applications.
Large‐Area, Solution‐Processed, Hierarchical MAPbI3 Nanoribbon Arrays for Self‐Powered Flexible Photodetectors
Authors: Lim Seongdong , Ha Minjeong , Lee Youngsu , Ko Hyunhyub
Published: August 2018

Organic–inorganic perovskites with micro‐/nanostructures exhibit outstanding optical and electrical properties, thus attracting increased attention as components of high‐performance optoelectronic devices, but the fabrication of complex micro‐/nanostructured perovskites shows limited success. This study describes the fabrication of hierarchical methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) nanoribbon (NR) arrays with controlled internal nanorod structures by simple spin‐coating with solvent treatment process and investigates the suitability of these arrays for high‐performance and multifunctional photodetectors. In the UV‐to‐800‐nm range, photodetectors based on the hierarchical MAPbI3 NR arrays exhibit specific detectivities 18.1–23.7 times higher than those of photodetectors based on MAPbI3 films due to the effective photon management and reduced charge trap states in the hierarchical MAPbI3 NR arrays. The solution‐processed hierarchical MAPbI3 NRs can be fabricated on various substrates including ultrathin polyimide, which facilitates the development of flexible photodetectors with highly stable photoresponse under bending strain. Furthermore, the ferroelectricity and the highly anisotropic alignment of MAPbI3 NR arrays allow multifunctional photodetectors capable of self‐powered and polarization‐sensitive light detection, respectively. The strategy used to fabricate hierarchical organic–inorganic perovskite NR arrays is believed to be applicable to other types of perovskites and can probably be used to construct various optoelectronic devices based on hierarchical nanostructures.
Self‐Powered Colloidal Wurtzite‐Structure Quantum Dots Photodetectors Based On Photoinduced‐Pyroelectric Effect
Authors: Jin Lufan , Zhang Yating , Yu Yu , Chen Zhiliang , Li Yifan , Cao Mingxuan , Che Yongli , Yao Jianquan
Published: August 2018

Colloidal wurtzite‐structure CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (CWQDs), with noncentral asymmetry structure and spontaneous polarization, have an extensive potential for applications based on the pyroelectric effect, such as energy harvestors, self‐powered nanogenerators, and photosensors. Here, a low‐cost, easy‐fabrication, and high‐speed self‐powered photodetector is demonstrated, which performs independently without any external power source. The response of the device caused by the photoinduced‐pyroelectric effect is experimentally investigated based on the Au/CWQDs/Au edge‐electrodes structure, which exhibits an ultrafast photoresponse with a rising time of 20.6 µs and a falling time of 30.1 µs. Moreover, the frequency and temperature dependence of the device also is investigated under zero bias. This work provides a new approach to achieve self‐powered photodetectors, which may show promise for extensive batch applications, such as wireless sensing, optothermal detection, optoelectronic communication, and energy harvesting.
A Photoelectrochemical Device with Dynamic Interface Energetics: Understanding of Structural and Physical Specificities and Improvement of Performance and Stability
Authors: Jung Jin‐Young , Yu Jin‐Young , Yoon Sanghwa , Yoo Bongyoung , Lee Jung‐Ho
Published: August 2018

The basic configuration of a photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting device contains a semiconductor junction, which separates charge carriers by developing interface energetics. Recently, porous metal oxide/semiconductor junctions have shown that flat‐band potentials (Vfb), representing interface energetics, could be dynamically changed with PEC reactions. However, it remains unclear as to what structural and physical specificities of the porous metal oxide induce the dynamic Vfb. Herein, it is demonstrated that the electrolyte permeability and nanocrystal structure of porous NiOx are crucial for the dynamic Vfb in porous NiOx integrated Si photocathodes. A comparison of the dense and porous NiOx with electrolyte impermeable and permeable features, respectively, shows that Vfb changes only in the porous NiOx. The porous NiOx also exhibits a nanocrystal structure and increased Vfb values with a decrease in nanocrystal size. As a result of the increased Vfb, the porous NiOx achieves much higher PEC performance compared to that of the dense NiOx. However, electrolyte permeability causes electrochemical decomposition of the Si component. Thus, a cointegration of the porous and dense NiOx bilayers, which ensures stable PEC operation for 10 h while achieving high potentials of 0.2 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode at a photocurrent of 10 mA cm−2, is proposed.
A Vision toward Ultimate Optical Out‐Coupling for Organic Light‐Emitting Diode Displays: 3D Pixel Configuration
Authors: Chen Yi‐Jiun , Lee Wei‐Kai , Chen Yi‐Ting , Lin Chun‐Yu , Wen Sheng‐Wen , Jiao Min , Su Guo‐Dong , Lin Hoang Yan , Visser Robert J. , Kwak Byungsung Leo , Chen Chung‐Chia , Lin Wan‐Yu , Wang Steve , Chang Chorng‐Ping , Wu Chung‐Chih
Published: August 2018

Despite stringent power consumption requirements in many applications, over years organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) displays still suffer unsatisfactory energy efficiency due to poor light extraction. Approaches have been reported for OLED light out‐coupling, but they in general are not applicable for OLED displays due to difficulties in display image quality and fabrication complexity and compatibility. Thus to date, an effective and feasible light extraction technique that can boost efficiencies and yet keep image quality is still lacking and remains a great challenge. Here, a highly effective and scalable extraction‐enhancing OLED display pixel structure is proposed based on embedding the OLED inside a three‐dimensional reflective concave structure covered with a patterned high‐index filler. It can couple as much internal emission as possible into the filler region and then redirect otherwise confined light for out‐coupling. Comprehensive multi‐scale optical simulation validates that ultimately high light extraction efficiency approaching ≈80% and excellent viewing characteristics are simultaneously achievable with optimized structures using highly transparent top electrodes. This scheme is scalable and wavelength insensitive, and generally applicable to all red, green, and blue pixels in high‐resolution full‐color displays. Results of this work are believed to shed light on the development of future generations of advanced OLED displays.
Local Deformation of Glasses is Mediated by Rigidity Fluctuation on Nanometer Scale
Authors: Benzine Omar , Bruns Sebastian , Pan Zhiwen , Durst Karsten , Wondraczek Lothar
Published: August 2018

Microscopic deformation processes determine defect formation on glass surfaces and, thus, the material's resistance to mechanical failure. While the macroscopic strength of most glasses is not directly dependent on material composition, local deformation and flaw initiation are strongly affected by chemistry and atomic arrangement. Aside from empirical insight, however, the structural origin of the fundamental deformation modes remains largely unknown. Experimental methods that probe parameters on short or intermediate length‐scale such as atom–atom or superstructural correlations are typically applied in the absence of alternatives. Drawing on recent experimental advances, spatially resolved Raman spectroscopy is now used in the THz‐gap for mapping local changes in the low‐frequency vibrational density of states. From direct observation of deformation‐induced variations on the characteristic length‐scale of molecular heterogeneity, it is revealed that rigidity fluctuation mediates the deformation process of inorganic glasses. Molecular field approximations, which are based solely on the observation of short‐range (interatomic) interactions, fail in the prediction of mechanical behavior. Instead, glasses appear to respond to local mechanical contact in a way that is similar to that of granular media with high intergranular cohesion.
Hybridizing Strong Quadrupole Gap Plasmons Using Optimized Nanoantennas with Bilayer MoS2 for Excellent Photo‐Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Sriram Pavithra , Su Dong‐Sheng , Periasamy Arun Prakash , Manikandan Arumugam , Wang Sheng‐Wen , Chang Huan‐Tsung , Chueh Yu‐Lun , Yen Ta‐Jen
Published: August 2018

Plasmonic nanoantennas with efficient scattering and strong electromagnetic field confinement are integrated into atomically thin transition metal dichalcogenides to gain insight into nanoscale light–matter interactions. Herein, unusual quadrupole gap plasmons (QGPs) are introduced in the tailored nanoantennas. The field enhancement of such QGPs is further maximized by optimizing the structure of the nanoantennas using a statistical method. In addition, the optimized nanoantennas are employed on a chemical vapor reaction‐grown bilayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) to tune and intensify the optical response of MoS2. The optimized QGP structure performance was enhanced by a factor of 27.87 and a beneficial continuous bilayer MoS2 can be applied in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) with superior outcomes. MoS2@QGP acts as an excellent photocatalyst for HER activity because of its accelerated electron injection process, which is faster than the electron–hole pair recombination, supported by the good light‐trapping capacity of the QGP structure and plentiful accepting sites of the continuous bilayer MoS2 film. The experimental results demonstrate that the QGP enhances the intrinsic catalytic properties of bilayer MoS2 for photocatalytic reactions.
Lithium Ion Capacitors in Organic Electrolyte System: Scientific Problems, Material Development, and Key Technologies
Authors: Han Pengxian , Xu Gaojie , Han Xiaoqi , Zhao Jingwen , Zhou Xinhong , Cui Guanglei
Published: August 2018

Lithium ion capacitors (LICs), which are hybrid electrochemical energy storage devices combining the intercalation/deintercalation mechanism of a lithium‐ion battery (LIB) electrode with the adsorption/desorption mechanism of an electric double‐layer capacitor (EDLC) electrode, have been extensively investigated during the past few years by virtue of their high energy density, rapid power output, and excellent cycleability. In this review, the LICs are defined as the devices with an electrochemical intercalation electrode and a capacitive electrode in organic electrolytes. Both electrodes can serve as anode or cathode. Throughout the history of LICs, tremendous efforts have been devoted to design suitable electrode materials or develop novel type LIC systems. However, one of the key challenges encountered by LICs is how to balance the sluggish kinetics of intercalation electrodes with high specific capacity against the high power characteristics of capacitive electrode with low specific capacitance. Herein, the developments and the latest advances of LIC in material design strategies and key techniques according to the basic scientific problems are summarized. Perspectives for further development of LICs toward practical applications are also proposed.
Controlling Surface Oxides in Si/C Nanocomposite Anodes for High‐Performance Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zheng Guorui , Xiang Yuxuan , Xu Liangfan , Luo Hao , Wang Baolin , Liu Yang , Han Xiang , Zhao Weimin , Chen Shijian , Chen Hailong , Zhang Qiaobao , Zhu Ting , Yang Yong
Published: August 2018

Si/C composites represent one promising class of anode materials for next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries. To achieve high performances of Si‐based anodes, it is critical to control the surface oxide of Si particles, so as to harness the chemomechanical confinement effect of surface oxide on the large volume changes of Si particles during lithiation/delithiation. Here a systematic study of Si@SiOx/C nanocomposite electrodes consisting of Si nanoparticles covered by a thin layer of surface oxide with a tunable thickness in the range of 1–10 nm is reported. It is shown that the oxidation temperature and time not only control the thickness of the surface oxide, but also change the structure and valence state of Si in the surface oxide. These factors can have a strong influence on the lithiation/delithiation behavior of Si nanoparticles, leading to different electrochemical performances. By combining experimental and modeling studies, an optimal thickness of about 5 nm for the surface oxide layer of Si nanoparticles is identified, which enables a combination of high capacity and long cycle stability of the Si@SiOx/C nanocomposite anodes. This work provides an in‐depth understanding of the effects of surface oxide on the Si/C nanocomposite electrodes. Insights gained are important for the design of high‐performance Si/C composite electrodes.
Diagnostic features of Meckel's diverticulum using single‐balloon enteroscopy: A case series
Authors: Wei Mike Tzuhen , Tu Chia‐Hung , Chiu Han‐Mo , Tseng Ping‐Huei , Lee Yi‐Chia , Chen Chien‐Chuan , Wang Hsiu‐Po , Wu Ming‐Shiang
Published: August 2018

Diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulum, the most common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract, has improved with the development of deep bowel enteroscopy. Few studies have demonstrated the imaging of Meckel's as seen through single‐balloon enteroscopy (SBE). The present case series describes six patients with Meckel's diverticulum diagnosed by SBE. Six patients (six men) underwent SBE at the National Taiwan University Hospital for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding from June 2011 to January 2016. Mean age was 39 ± 22.1 years (range 18‐79). Meckel's was diagnosed by retrograde enteroscopy in all cases and accounted for bleeding in four. Meckel's scan was performed in two cases, and computed tomography scan was performed in four patients, none of which identified the Meckel's. Endoscopic hemostasis was performed in two patients, and Meckel's diverticulectomy was performed in one patient. We found SBE to be a viable first‐line modality for diagnosing Meckel's diverticulum. We found that SBE, similar to double‐balloon enteroscopy, provides the significant benefits of direct observation and intervention for bleeding in the small bowel, including Meckel's.
An overview of extant conifer evolution from the perspective of the fossil record
Authors: Leslie Andrew B. , Beaulieu Jeremy , Holman Garth , Campbell Christopher S. , Mei Wenbin , Raubeson Linda R. , Mathews Sarah
Published: August 2018

Premise of the Study

Conifers are an important living seed plant lineage with an extensive fossil record spanning more than 300 million years. The group therefore provides an excellent opportunity to explore congruence and conflict between dated molecular phylogenies and the fossil record.

Methods

We surveyed the current state of knowledge in conifer phylogenetics to present a new time‐calibrated molecular tree that samples ~90% of extant species diversity. We compared phylogenetic relationships and estimated divergence ages in this new phylogeny with the paleobotanical record, focusing on clades that are species‐rich and well known from fossils.

Key Results

Molecular topologies and estimated divergence ages largely agree with the fossil record in Cupressaceae, conflict with it in Araucariaceae, and are ambiguous in Pinaceae and Podocarpaceae. Molecular phylogenies provide insights into some fundamental questions in conifer evolution, such as the origin of their seed cones, but using them to reconstruct the evolutionary history of specific traits can be challenging.

Conclusions

Molecular phylogenies are useful for answering deep questions in conifer evolution if they depend on understanding relationships among extant lineages. Because of extinction, however, molecular datasets poorly sample diversity from periods much earlier than the Late Cretaceous. This fundamentally limits their utility for understanding deep patterns of character evolution and resolving the overall pattern of conifer phylogeny.
Cytogenetic abnormalities in systemic mastocytosis: WHO subcategory‐specific incidence and prognostic impact among 348 informative cases
Authors: Shah Sahrish , Pardanani Animesh , Elala Yoseph C. , Lasho Terra L. , Patnaik Mrinal M. , Reichard Kaaren K. , Hanson Curtis A. , Ketterling Rhett P. , Tefferi Ayalew
Published: August 2018

The World Health Organization (WHO) system lists five morphological categories of systemic mastocytosis (SM): indolent (ISM), smoldering, SM with an associated hematological neoplasm (SM‐AHN), aggressive (ASM) and mast cell leukemia (MCL). Recent studies have highlighted the prognostic importance of mutations in SM, including ASXL1, RUNX1, and SRSF2. In contrast, information on incidence of cytogenetic abnormalities in SM and their prognostic relevance, especially in the context of mutations, is limited. In the current study, we retrospectively reviewed the cytogenetic findings in 348 consecutive cases of SM (median age 59 years; 53% males); 41% constituted ISM, 45% SM‐AHN, 14% ASM and two cases of MCL. Karyotype was abnormal in 53 (15%) cases with incidences of 6% for ISM, 26% for SM‐AHN and 8% for ASM (P < .001); among SM‐AHN cases, abnormal karyotype incidences were 0% for SM‐AHN‐lymphoid and 28% for SM‐AHN‐myeloid (P < .001). Clinical correlative studies disclosed significant associations between abnormal karyotype and male sex (P = .002), age > 60 years (P = .04), thrombocytopenia (P < .001) and anemia (P < .001), but not with the presence of adverse mutations (P = .19). In univariate analysis, abnormal karyotype was associated with inferior survival (HR 3.0, 95% CI 2.0‐4.3), specifically confirmed for ASM (HR 4.9, 95% CI 1.1‐16.1) and SM‐AHN (HR 1.8, 95% CI 1.2‐2.7). Sample size adequacy allowed additional multivariable analysis in SM‐AHN‐myeloid, which disclosed independent prognostic contribution from adverse mutations (P = .003), anemia (P = .003) and thrombocytopenia (P = .001), but not from abnormal karyotype (P = .31). Our observations suggest that mutations are prognostically more relevant than karyotype in SM.
Multicenter randomized trial of arsenic trioxide and Realgar‐Indigo naturalis formula in pediatric patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia: Interim results of the SCCLG‐APL clinical study
Authors: Yang Ming‐Hua , Wan Wu‐Qing , Luo Jie‐Si , Zheng Min‐Cui , Huang Ke , Yang Li‐Hua , Mai Hui‐Rong , Li Jian , Chen Hui‐Qin , Sun Xiao‐Fei , Liu Ri‐Yang , Chen Guo‐Hua , Feng Xiaoqin , Ke Zhi‐Yong , Li Bin , Tang Yan‐Lai , Huang Li‐Bin , Luo Xue‐Qun
Published: August 2018

Intravenous arsenic trioxide (ATO) has been adopted as the first‐line treatment for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Another arsenic compound named the Realgar‐Indigo naturalis formula (RIF), an oral traditional Chinese medicine containing As4S4, has been shown to be highly effective in treating adult APL. In the treatment of pediatric APL, the safety and efficacy of RIF remains to be confirmed. This randomized, multicenter, and noninferiority trial was conducted to determine whether intravenous ATO can be substituted by oral RIF in the treatment of pediatric APL. From September 2011 to January 2017, among 92 patients who were 16 years old or younger with newly diagnosed PML‐RARa positive APL, 82 met eligible criteria and were randomly assigned to ATO (n = 42) or RIF (n = 40) group. The remaining 10 patients did not fulfilled eligible criteria because five did not accept randomization, four died and one had hemiplegia prior to arsenic randomization due to intracranial hemorrhage or cerebral thrombosis. Induction and consolidation treatment contained ATO or RIF, all‐trans‐retinoic acid and low intensity chemotherapy. End points included event‐free survival (EFS), adverse events and hospital days. After a median 3‐year follow‐up, the estimated 5‐year EFS was 100% in both groups, and adverse events were mild. However, patients in the RIF group had significantly less hospital stay than those in the ATO group. This interim analysis shows that oral RIF is as effective and safe as intravenous ATO for the treatment of pediatric APL, with the advantage of reducing hospital stay. Final trial analysis will reveal mature outcome data.
Less common manifestations in TSC
Authors: Boronat Susana , Barber Ignasi
Published: August 2018

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is due to pathogenic variants in TSC1 or TSC2 genes resulting in hyperactivation of the mTOR pathway. Many organ systems can be affected, such as brain, skin, eye, heart, bone, kidney, or lung. Typical lesions of TSC usually are those included as major criteria, including angiofibromas, hypomelanotic macules, tubers, subependymal nodules, angiomyolipomas, cardiac rhabdomyomas, and lymphangioleiomyomatosis. However, there are many other manifestations less frequent and/or less well known, many of them not included as clinical diagnostic criteria that are part of the clinical spectrum of TSC. The focus of this review will be on these less common and less well‐known manifestations of TSC. Among the rare manifestations, we will discuss some clinical findings including arteriopathy, arachnoid cysts, lymphatic involvement, chordomas, gynecological, endocrine, and gastrointestinal findings. Among the manifestations that are very frequent but much less well known, we find the sclerotic bone lesions. Although they are very frequent in TSC they have been largely overlooked and not considered diagnostic criteria, mainly because they are asymptomatic. However, it is important to know their typical characteristics to avoid misdiagnosing them as metastasis.
Ontogeny and variability of trabecular bone in the chimpanzee humerus, femur and tibia
Authors: Tsegai Zewdi J. , Skinner Matthew M. , Pahr Dieter H. , Hublin Jean‐Jacques , Kivell Tracy L.
Published: August 2018

Objectives

Trabecular bone structure is known to be influenced by joint loading during life. However, many additional variables have the potential to contribute to trabecular bone structure of an adult individual, including age, sex, body size, genetics, and overall activity level. There is little research into intraspecific variability in trabecular bone and ontogeny of trabecular bone structure, especially in nonhuman primates.

Materials and methods

This study investigates trabecular structure in adult and immature chimpanzees from a single population using high‐resolution microcomputed tomographic scans of the proximal humerus, proximal femur, and distal tibia. Trabecular bone volume fraction (BV/TV), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), trabecular number (Tb.N), trabecular spacing (Tb.Sp), and degree of anisotropy (DA) were quantified in specific regions of adult and immature chimpanzees, and color maps were generated to visualize the distribution of BV/TV throughout the joint in the metaphysis of immature specimens.

Results

The results demonstrate that variability in adult trabecular structure cannot be explained by sex or body size. During ontogeny, there is a general increase in trabecular BV/TV and Tb.Th with age, and ratios of trabecular parameters between the fore‐ and hindlimb may be consistent with locomotor transitions during ontogeny.

Discussion

Variation in trabecular morphology among adult individuals is not related to sex or body size, and the factors contributing to intraspecific variability, such as overall activity levels and genetic differences, require further investigation. Trabecular ontogeny in chimpanzees differs from humans in some respects, most notably the absence of a high BV/TV at birth.
Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Seeds of Various Halophytic Grasses
Authors: Toqeer Sadaf , Qasim Muhammad , Abideen Zainul , Gul Bilquees , Rasheed Munawwer , Khan Muhammad A.
Published: August 2018

Increasing population has resulted in overexploitation of conventional seeds. The limited supply of water and salinization of agricultural lands are threats to crop production. This creates food insecurity and results in ever‐increasing prices of crops and edible oils. Halophytes that produce high‐quality seeds can serve as sources of oil and edible products. We analyzed the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of seeds from 5 halophytic grasses, i.e., Aeluropus lagopoides, Eragrostis ciliaris, Eragrostis pilosa, Panicum antidotale, and Sporobolus ioclados. These seeds contained crude protein (10–29%), carbohydrates (32–55%), crude fiber (4–21%), minerals (3.8–9.2%), and oil (4–11%), indicating their nutritional potential. Oils of these seeds had suitable fatty‐acid composition with 62–82% unsaturation and only 17–24% saturation. Out of this, 91–94% of the total oil constituted by linoleic, oleic, and palmitic acids. High contents of total phenols (2.8–4.2 mg gallic acid equivalent [GAE] g−1), flavonoids (0.5–1.3 mg Quercetin equivalent [QE] g−1), and tannins (0.3–1.3 mg catechin equivalent [CE] g−1) supported their high antioxidant activity (1,1‐Diphenyl‐2‐picryl‐hydrazyl (DPPH) activity in terms of half maximal inhibitory concentration‐IC50 1.1–5.86 mg mL−1; 2,2′‐azino‐bis3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid (ABTS) 18.8–72.8 mmol Trolox g−1; ferric‐reducing antioxidant power 2.0–4.4 mmol Fe+2 g−1). The reverse phase‐high‐pressure liquid chromatography analysis identified the presence of bioactive phenolic antioxidants (mainly gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, coumaric acid, ferulic acid, kaempferol, and quercetin). Due to these characteristic composition and salt tolerability, these plants can serve as potential sources of industrial raw materials for food, edible oil, phytochemicals, and oliochemicals.
Scopolamine Use in the Perioperative Patient: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kassel Lynn , Nelson Megan , Shine Jaclyn , Jones Laura R. , Kassel Cale
Published: August 2018

Scopolamine is an antiemetic agent used for postoperative nausea and vomiting prevention; however, it has anticholinergic effects (eg, bradycardia, dry mouth, dizziness, visual disturbances). Avoiding scopolamine use in specific populations is crucial to prevent adverse effects and harm to patients. This systematic review describes the anticholinergic effects of scopolamine in perioperative patient populations. After searching the available literature, we reviewed the eligible articles to determine whether they met the inclusion criteria (eg, full text, English language, included a discussion of scopolamine's anticholinergic effects in perioperative patients). Twenty‐six articles were included in this review. We used The Johns Hopkins Research Evidence Appraisal Tool to appraise the literature. The results of this literature review reveal that clinicians should avoid administering scopolamine to certain perioperative patient populations (ie, pediatric, older adult).
Preparation and characterization of water‐absorbing polyurethane foam composites with microsized sodium polyacrylate particles
Authors: Ma Jie , Wang Tingwei
Published: August 2018

This article introduces the preparation of rigid polyurethane foam (PUF) and studies the effect of various mass percentages of sodium polyacrylate (PAAS, microsized) on PUF hydrophilicity. The characterization of PUF (with 0–5.5 wt % PAAS) was conducted via scanning electron microscopy, contact angle analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and pore size distribution. All modified foams showed an improvement in their water sorption and water maintenance capacities, and the PU foam content of 5.5 wt % PAAS showed a water absorption of 891%, and the water retention performance was 408% (96 h) compared to the pure PU foam. Through contact angle measurements, the relationship between the hydrophilicity of the modified foams and PAAS content was investigated. The compression strength of the samples was also tested. When the PAAS is 2.6 wt %, the compression strength of the composites decreased about 50% compared with the pure PU foam. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46702.
Cationic Chiral Pd‐Catalyzed “Acetylenic” Diels–Alder Reaction: Computational Analysis of Reversal in Enantioselectivity
Authors: Honda Kazuya , Ohkura Shun , Hayashi Yoshihiro , Kawauchi Susumu , Mikami Koichi
Published: August 2018

The highly enantioselective Diels–Alder reaction of acetylenic dienophiles is shown to be effectively catalyzed by cationic chiral palladium complexes. Not only the degree but also the sense of enantioselectivity critically depends on the steric demand of ligands. Computational analyses indicate that the steric demand does not affect the endo/exo‐selectivity but the enantioface selectivity of dienes.
Entwicklung eines neuartigen leichten Deckenträgers aus Carbonbeton
Authors: Senckpiel‐Peters Tilo , Häußler‐Combe Ulrich , Metschies Heike , Eisewicht Peter
Published: August 2018

Carbonbeton ermöglicht dünne Querschnitte und leichte, hochfeste Tragwerke. Dies wird im vorliegenden Beitrag am Beispiel eines leichten, vorgefertigten Deckenträgers demonstriert, der einfach montierbar z. B. als Ersatz von sanierungsbedürftigen Trägern in Bestandsbauten einsetzbar wäre. Hierbei kommt ein neuartiges zementgebundenes Verbundmaterial, bestehend aus Schichten von betongetränkten Nadelvliesstoffen sowie carbonbewehrtem Feinbeton, zur Anwendung, mit feiner Rissbildung und hoher Duktilität. Der Träger ist als dünne zylindrische Schale mit seitlichen Stegen konzipiert. Neben Material, Entwurf und Herstellung beschreibt der Beitrag experimentelle und numerische Untersuchungen zum Spannungs‐Dehnungsverhalten des Verbundmaterials sowie zum Tragverhalten des Deckenträgers. Bei geringem Gewicht wird eine sehr hohe Tragfähigkeit nachgewiesen, welche die Gebrauchslasten um ein Vielfaches überschreitet. Entwurf sowie experimentelle und rechnerische Analysen sind exemplarisch und sollten ein größeres Anwendungsspektrum ermöglichen.
Effect of HUK on the outcome of ruptured intracranial aneurysm
Authors: Chen Luyue , Lyu Yi , Lin Xiaoning , Sun Minghui , Feng Wei , Tian Xinhua
Published: August 2018

Objective

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of Human Urinary Kallidinogenase (HUK) on the outcome of patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysm.

Methods

This was a prospective, open‐label study. At the Department of Neurosurgery in our hospital, 127 patients were treated and operated due to ruptured intracranial aneurysm in the period 2015–2016. After surgery, all the patients received basic treatment and 70 patients received additional HUK treatment (HUK group) according to their willing. In detail, 0.15 PNA unit of HUK injection plus 100 ml saline in intravenous infusion was performed, with once a day for 14 consecutive days. The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores and favorable mRS rates (mRS 0–1) were analyzed 3‐month after the treatment.

Results

No difference was shown in the basic characteristics between the two groups (p > 0.05). Favorable mRS rate in the HUK group (71.43%) was significantly higher than that in control group (50.88%, p < 0.05). In addition, 3‐month death rate was significantly lower in the HUK group. Delayed ischemic stroke rate was similar between the two groups.

Conclusion

HUK can reduce morbidity and mortality of patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysm after surgery.
Psychiatric profile of motor subtypes of de novo drug‐naïve Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Assogna Francesca , Pellicano Clelia , Cravello Luca , Savini Cinzia , Pierantozzi Mariangela , Mercuri Bruno , Caltagirone Carlo , Pontieri Francesco E. , Spalletta Gianfranco , Stefani Alessandro
Published: August 2018

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder. It is well established that different motor subtypes of PD evolve with different clinical courses and prognoses. The complete psychiatric profile underlying these different phenotypes since the very early stage of the disease is debated.

Aims of the study

We aimed at investigating the psychiatric profile of the three motor subtypes of PD (akinetic‐rigid, tremor‐dominant, and mixed) in de novo drug‐naïve patients with PD.

Methods

Sixty‐eight patients with PD, divided into 39 akinetic‐rigid (AR), seven mixed (MIX), and 22 tremor‐dominant (TD) patients underwent a complete assessment of psychiatric, cognitive, and motor symptoms.

Results

No significant differences were found among groups.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that a differentiation of the psychiatric symptoms associated with specific motor subtypes of PD is not detectable in de novo drug‐naïve patients. Previous evidence that emerges later along the disease progression may be a consequence of the dopaminergic and nondopaminergic damage increase.
Identification of a high‐risk subtype of intestinal‐type Japanese gastric cancer by quantitative measurement of the luminal tumor proportion
Authors: Aoyama Toru , Hutchins Gordon , Arai Tomio , Sakamaki Kentaro , Miyagi Yohei , Tsuburaya Akira , Ogata Takashi , Oshima Takashi , Earle Sophie , Yoshikawa Takaki , Grabsch Heike I.
Published: August 2018

Background

We hypothesized that the relative proportion of tumor (PoT) at the luminal surface can predict gastric cancer (GC) patient survival.

Methods

We measured the luminal PoT in resection specimens from 231 GC patients with stage II/III disease who had surgery at the Kanagawa Cancer Center, Yokohama, Japan. Tissue microarrays were used to assess the extent of immune cell infiltration by CD45 immunohistochemistry. Results were related to histopathological features and patient overall survival (OS).

Results

PoT was significantly lower in diffuse‐type (30%) compared to intestinal‐type GC (41%), P = 0.03. Patients with low PoT intestinal‐type GC survived significantly longer than patients with high PoT intestinal‐type GC (5 years OS: 78% vs 47%, P = 0.0112). Low PoT was an independent favorable prognostic factor in multivariate analysis in intestinal‐type GC. Low PoT was correlated with high content of CD45‐positive immune cells (P = 0.035). There was no relationship between PoT and survival in diffuse‐type GC.

Conclusions

This is the first study to identify a subgroup of patients with stage II/III intestinal‐type GC at high risk of recurrence by measuring PoT at the luminal surface. The relationship between PoT and immune cell content provides an initial insight into potential underlying biological mechanisms.
Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics (PAOO) Using Platelet‐Rich Fibrin Alone: A Modified Approach With a 3‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Dukka Himabindu , Gossweiler Michael , Kishimoto Takaaki , Blanchard Steven
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Orthodontists are reportedly seeing more adult patients in their practices. Hence, it becomes increasingly important to evaluate the periodontium for any existing problems or potential issues that could be caused by orthodontic treatment. Periodontally accelerated osteogenic orthodontics (PAOO) is a method of surgically assisted tooth movement achieved through a combination of corticotomy and bone grafting allowing rapid tooth movement and decreased treatment time. Platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) is shown to have osteoinductive effects along with enhanced soft and hard tissue healing outcomes. The aim of this case report is to describe a variation of the PAOO technique using PRF membranes alone and provide a proof of concept for the effect of PRF on soft and hard tissue healing outcomes when used with PAOO.

Case Presentation

A 43‐year‐old female expressed displeasure over her malaligned lower anterior teeth and difficulty performing oral hygiene in that area. Clinical examination showed inadequate keratinized tissue, and cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images revealed extensive loss of buccal bone. Ultrasonic buccal corticotomies were made using a piezoelectric device from the alveolar crest extending past the tooth apices in the lower anterior region. Five PRF membranes were placed over the teeth and secured with sutures.

Conclusions

Three‐year follow‐up showed exceptional improvement in soft tissue appearance and keratinized tissue width. CBCT images revealed no further loss of buccal bone. This is the first case to demonstrate that PAOO using PRF can be a viable option for orthodontic movement of periodontally compromised teeth.
Five New Diterpenoids from the Seeds of Euphorbia lathyris
Authors: Wang Qian , Zhen Yong‐Qi , Gao Feng , Huang Shuai , Zhou Xian‐Li
Published: August 2018

A new premyrsinane‐type diterpenoid, premylanin (1), and four new lathyrane‐type diterpenoids named Euphorbia Factors L30–L33 (2–5) were isolated from the seeds of Euphorbia lathyris, together with thirteen known ones (6–18). Their structures were elucidated through spectroscopic analyses, including IR, UV, HR‐ESI‐MS, 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR. The cytotoxicities of compounds 1–4 and 6–18 against HCT116, MCF‐7, 786–0, HepG2 cell lines were evaluated, and compound 13 exhibited considerable cytotoxic activities with an IC50 values of 6.44, 8.43, 15.3, 9.32 μm, respectively.
Paraneoplastic frosted branch angiitis as first sign of relapsed Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Alhaj Moustafa Muhamad , Crowell Eric L. , Elmahdy Sherif , Malkovska Vera , Reddy Ashvini K.
Published: August 2018

Key Clinical Message

Frosted branch angiitis (FBA) is a rare form of retinal vasculitis with typical perivascular edema taking the shape of frost on a tree branch. It was reported only twice as the initial presentation of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). Here, we present the first case of paraneoplastic FBA as the initial sign of HL relapse in an elderly female.
Asymptomatic abdominal aortic stenosis detected by unenhanced computed tomography before angiography in acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Suga Toshihiro , Hatori Takashi , Suga Yuko , Yoshida Mikoto , Oyama Keita
Published: August 2018

Key Clinical Message

Although rapid treatment is important, unenhanced computed tomography before angiography is quick and can detect myocardial infarction induced by aortic dissection and also asymptomatic abdominal aortic stenosis in acute myocardial infarction cases.
Alumina as Solid‐State Ligand in Enhancing the Redox Catalytic Property of Iron Oxide Grafted AlSBA‐15 towards Arylation of Arene
Authors: Rajendran Chandran , Thirumoorthy Kulandaivellu , Satishkumar Govindaswamy , Landau Miron V.
Published: August 2018

2–8 wt % iron has been grafted over SBA‐15 and 10 wt % alumina grafted SBA‐15 (AlSBA‐15) through selective extraction deposition technique using LaFeO3 as iron precursor in acidic solution. DRS‐UV spectra confirmed the presence of iron as isolated Fe(III), Fe(III)‐clusters and amorphous FeOx oligomers. SEM‐EDX mapping, FT‐IR, XPS, HR‐TEM and 27Al MAS NMR characterisation results confirmed that iron grafted over AlSBA‐15 preferentially reside on the alumina. The donor‐acceptor interaction of grafted iron ions with alumina atoms displaying Lewis acid properties stabilized iron at higher oxidation state Fe(III+δ). This increased the BE of Fe2p electrons (XPS) and shifted the temperature of iron reduction in 2–8 wt %Fe/AlSBA‐15 materials to higher value (600 °C) compared with Fe/SBA‐15 (H2‐TPR). In arylation of benzene, 8 wt %Fe/AlSBA‐15 demonstrated excellent redox catalytic activity with TOF close to homogeneous catalyst and 82 % biphenyl yield. The catalyst demonstrated consistent catalytic performance for 7 cycles.