bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stimuli‐Responsive Scaffold for Breast Cancer Treatment Combining Accurate Photothermal Therapy and Adipose Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Bai Guo , Yuan Pingyun , Cai Bolei , Qiu Xinyu , Jin Ronghua , Liu Shiyu , Li Yan , Chen Xin
Published: July 2019

Development of new therapeutic scaffolds to selectively destruct tumors under gentle conditions meanwhile promoting adipose tissue formation would be a promising strategy for clinical treatment of breast cancer. Herein, a stimuli‐responsive scaffold composed of polyacrylic acid‐g‐polylactic acid (PAA‐g‐PLLA) modified graphene oxide (GO) with a cleavable bond in between (GO‐PAA‐g‐PLLA), gambogic acid (GA), and polycaprolactone (PCL) is fabricated and then preseeded on adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) for breast cancer treatment. This GO–GA‐polymer scaffold is able to simultaneously perform pH‐triggered low temperature (45 °C) photothermal therapy to selectively induce the apoptosis of tumor cells and significantly improve ADSCs growth without any photothermal damage. The low‐temperature photothermal therapy of the scaffolds can induce more than 95% of cell death for human breast cancer (MCF‐7) in vitro, which further completely inhibits tumor growth and finally eliminates tumor tissue in mice. Meanwhile, the prepared GO–GA‐polymer scaffold possesses the improved capability to stimulate the differentiation of ADSCs into adipocytes by upregulating adipo‐related gene expression, and significantly promotes new adipose tissue formation whether with or without NIR irradiation. These results successfully demonstrate that the prepared GO–GA‐polymer scaffolds with bifunctional properties will be a promising candidate for clinical cases involving both tumor treatment and tissue engineering.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Unsaturated Polyester Bioelastomer with Controllable Material Curing for Microscale Designs
Authors: Davenport Huyer Locke , Bannerman A. Dawn , Wang Yufeng , Savoji Houman , Knee‐Walden Ericka J. , Brissenden Amanda , Yee Bess , Shoaib Mohammad , Bobicki Erin , Amsden Brian G. , Radisic Milica
Published: July 2019

Synthetic polyester elastomeric constructs have become increasingly important for a range of healthcare applications, due to tunable soft elastic properties that mimic those of human tissues. A number of these constructs require intricate mechanical design to achieve a tunable material with controllable curing. Here, the synthesis and characterization of poly(itaconate‐co‐citrate‐co‐octanediol) (PICO) is presented, which exhibits tunable formation of elastomeric networks through radical crosslinking of itaconate in the polymer backbone of viscous polyester gels. Through variation of reaction times and monomer molar composition, materials with modulation of a wide range of elasticity (36–1476 kPa) are generated, indicating the tunability of materials to specific elastomeric constructs. This correlated with measured rapid and controllable gelation times. As a proof of principle, scaffold support for cardiac tissue patches is developed, which presents visible tissue organization and viability with appropriate elastomeric support from PICO materials. These formulations present potential application in a range of healthcare applications with requirement for elastomeric support with controllable, rapid gelation under mild conditions.
Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence and Reversible White Light Switch Based on a Cyclodextrin Polypseudorotaxane Xerogel
Authors: Li Jing‐Jing , Zhang Heng‐Yi , Zhang Yi , Zhou Wei‐Lei , Liu Yu
Published: July 2019

The development of metal‐free room‐temperature phosphorescent (RTP) and white‐light‐emitting supramolecular materials is significant for artificial soft materials. Herein, a polypseudorotaxane xerogel is fabricated by threading a linear brominated aromatic aldehyde polymer into α‐cyclodextrin cavities. The xerogel can be excited to produce not only RTP signals based on the xerogel network structure's strong restriction of phosphor vibrations and suppression of the nonradiative relaxation process but also white‐light emission at room temperature. Notably, the polypseudorotaxane system possesses excellent fluorescence–phosphorescence dual emission properties and is capable of reversible photoluminescence switching between blue fluorescence emission and white‐light emission in the presence and absence of water.
High‐Efficiency As‐Cast Organic Solar Cells Based on Acceptors with Steric Hindrance Induced Planar Terminal Group
Authors: Liu Yahui , Li Miao , Yang Jinjin , Xue Wenyue , Feng Shiyu , Song Jinsheng , Tang Zheng , Ma Wei , Bo Zhishan
Published: July 2019

A series of alkyl, alkoxyl, and alkylthio substituted A–π–D–π–A type nonfullerene acceptors (NFAs) IDTCN‐C, IDTCN‐O, and IDTCN‐S are designed and synthesized. The introduction of a lateral side chain at the outer position of the π bridge unit can endow the terminal moiety with a confined planar conformation due to the steric hindrance. Thus, compared with nonsubstituted NFA (IDTT2F), these acceptors tend to form favorable face‐on orientation and exhibit strong crystallinity as verified with grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering measurement. Moreover, the variation of side chain can significantly change the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy level of acceptors. As state‐of‐the‐art NFAs, a power conversion efficiency of 13.28% (Voc = 0.91 V, Jsc = 19.96 mA cm−2, and FF = 73.2%) is obtained for the as‐cast devices based on IDTCN‐O, which is among the highest value reported in literature. The excellent photovoltaic performance for IDTCN‐O can be attributed to its slightly up‐shifted LUMO level and more balanced charge transport. This research demonstrates side chain engineering is an effective way to achieve high efficiency organic solar cells.
Molecular Bases for Anesthetic Agents: Halothane as a Halogen‐ and Hydrogen‐Bond Donor
Authors: Nayak Susanta K. , Terraneo Giancarlo , Piacevoli Quirino , Bertolotti Federica , Scilabra Patrick , Brown John T. , Rosokha Sergiy V. , Resnati Giuseppe
Published: July 2019

Although instrumental for optimizing their pharmacological activity, a molecular understanding of the preferential interactions given by volatile anesthetics is quite poor. This paper confirms the ability of halothane to work as a hydrogen‐bond (HB) donor and gives the first experimental proof that halothane also works as a halogen‐bond (HaB) donor in the solid state and in solution. A halothane/hexamethylphosphortriamide co‐crystal is described and its single‐crystal X‐ray structure shows short HaBs between bromine, or chlorine, and the phosphoryl oxygen. New UV/Vis absorption bands appear upon addition of diazabicyclooctane and tetra(n‐butyl)ammonium iodide to halothane solutions, indicating that nitrogen atoms and anions may mediate the HaB‐driven binding processes involving halothane as well. The ability of halothane to work as a bidentate/tridentate tecton by acting as a HaB and HB donor gives an atomic rationale for the eudismic ratio shown by this agent.
1,3‐Difunctionalization of Aminocyclopropanes via Dielectrophilic Intermediates
Authors: Wang Ming‐Ming , Waser Jérôme
Published: July 2019

We report an oxidative ring‐opening strategy to transform acyl, sulfonyl or carbamate protected aminocyclopropanes into 1,3‐dielectrophilic carbon intermediates bearing a halide atom (Br, I) and a N,O‐acetal. Replacing the alkoxy group of the N,O‐acetal can be achieved under acidic conditions through an elimination–addition pathway, while substitution of the halides by nucleophiles can be done under basic conditions through a SN2 pathway, generating a wide range of 1,3‐difunctionalized propylamines. A proof of concept for asymmetric induction was realized using a chiral phosphoric acid (CPA) as catalyst, highlighting the potential of the method in enantioselective synthesis of important building blocks.
Orthogonal Activation of RNA‐Cleaving DNAzymes in Live Cells by Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Xiao Lu , Gu Chunmei , Xiang Yu
Published: July 2019

RNA‐cleaving DNAzymes are useful tools for intracellular metal‐ion sensing and gene regulation. Incorporating stimuli‐responsive modifications into these DNAzymes enables their activities to be spatiotemporally and chemically controlled for more precise applications. Despite the successful development of many caged DNAzymes for light‐induced activation, DNAzymes that can be intracellularly activated by chemical inputs of biological importance, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), are still scarce. ROS like hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and hypochlorite (HClO) are critical mediators of oxidative stress‐related cell signaling and dysregulation including activation of immune system as well as progression of diseases and aging. Herein, we report ROS‐activable DNAzymes by introducing phenylboronate and phosphorothioate modifications to the Zn2+‐dependent 8–17 DNAzyme. These ROS‐activable DNAzymes were orthogonally activated by H2O2 and HClO inside live human and mouse cells.
Preparation, activity and photocatalysis mechanism of high‐performance AgBrO3/AgBr photocatalysts
Authors: Zhou Junqing , Song Limin , Zhao Xiaofei , Zhang Shujuan
Published: July 2019

AgBrO3/AgBr compound photocatalysts were prepared via a precipitation method and characterized by X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet–visible diffusion spectroscopy, and solid surface fluorescence trials. The photocatalytic performances and mechanism were also investigated. It was found the 2.5 wt.% AgBrO3/AgBr compound photocatalyst was most effective in dye degradation. The AgBrO3/AgBr showed degradation rate up to 94.5% in a 10 mg/L MO (Methyl Orange) solution and was still very stable after five cycles of reuse. The AgBrO3/AgBr photocatalysts could oxidize and decompose methyl orange molecules under visible light irradiation. The compounding largely improved the photocatalytic activity of AgBr. Photocatalytic mechanism experiments showed ·OH was the major active species.
Zirconium catalyzed amide formation without water scavenging
Authors: Lundberg Helena , Tinnis Fredrik , Adolfsson Hans
Published: July 2019

A scalable homogeneous metal‐catalyzed protocol for direct amidation of carboxylic acids is presented. The use of 2–10 mol% of the commercially available Zr(Cp)2(OTf)2·THF results in high yields of amides at moderate temperature, using an operationally convenient reaction protocol that circumvents the use of water scavenging techniques.
Lignin improves release behavior of slow‐release fertilizers with high content of urea
Authors: Gu Haifeng , Zhang Yuchao , Li Xian , Li Wenzhuo , Huang Shuaiyu
Published: July 2019

To develop a slow‐release fertilizer with high content of urea, lignin was heated with urea–montmorillonite (M/U) extruded composites to synthesize a novel composite‐lignin/montmorillonite/urea (L/M/U). Mechanical test results of the composites showed that the L/M/U exhibited a greater flexure strength and a higher elastic modulus than the unmodified M/U extruded material. Based on the results of the urea release experiments, in the M/U extruded composites, the material with a high urea content exhibited a high urea release rate. By contrast, although the urea content of the 2:1:4 L/M/U formulation was higher than the 2:1:1 and 2:1:2 L/M/U formulations, the former formulation exhibited a lower urea release rate than the latter two formulations. The urea cumulative release (34.6%) of the L/M/U 2:1:4 after 105 h was also lower than that (93.7%) of the M/U 1:1 although the Wurea (57.1 wt %) in the former was higher than the Wurea (50.0 wt %) in the latter. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48238.
Novel lignosulfonate/N,N‐dimethylacrylamide/γ‐methacryloxypropyl trimethoxy silane graft copolymer as a filtration reducer for water‐based drilling fluids
Authors: Liu Fei , Zhang Zhaoxiang , Wang Zenglin , Dai Xiaodong , Chen Mengxin , Zhang Jie
Published: July 2019

The redox system consisting of ammonium persulfate and sodium bisulfite was used as initiator, N,N‐dimethylacrylamide (DMAA) and γ‐methacryloxypropyl trimethoxy silane (KH570) were grafted onto sodium lignosulfonate (LS) in aqueous solution as reaction monomers, and a novel LS/KH570/DMAA graft copolymer filtrate reducer was synthesized. The structure of the copolymer was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer and nuclear magnetic resonance instrument. The result revealed that DMAA and KH570 were successfully grafted onto sodium LS. In addition, the thermal stability of the copolymer was determined by thermogravimetric analyzer and the micromorphology of filter cake of water‐based drilling fluids (WBDFs) containing LS/KH570/DMAA was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. At the same time, the rheological and filtration properties of WBDFs containing copolymer with different concentrations were further evaluated. The results showed that when the copolymer concentration was 3 wt %, the fluid loss of bentonite‐based drilling fluids was only 6.2 mL before aging, and 9.8 mL after aging at 180 °C for 16 h. The fluid‐loss control mechanism of LS/KH570/DMAA was investigated through clay particle distribution analysis and zeta potential measurement of WBDFs. Moreover, the WBDFs containing copolymer exhibit excellent performance in reducing fluid loss under the invasion of calcium salts. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48274.
Macrophytes promote aquatic insect conservation in artificial ponds
Authors: Briggs Andrew , Pryke James S. , Samways Michael J. , Conlong Des E.
Published: July 2019

Farmland ponds promote regional aquatic biodiversity; however, optimally managing these ponds requires knowledge on how the biodiversity differs between ponds across catchments with different land uses.

This study investigated the response of macrophytes, both those in the pond and on the bank, as well as dragonfly and water beetle species richness, diversity and composition in artificial ponds, to numerous environmental variables in catchments dominated by three land uses: protected areas (as reference sites), sugarcane‐dominated and forestry‐dominated landscapes, across two seasons.

There was a strong association between insect species richness and vegetation cover, particularly sedges (Cyperus spp.) in spring and bulrushes (Typha capensis) in summer. There was also a positive response between insect species richness and sedges up to 70% cover, and bulrushes up to 40% cover, after which there was a decrease. Furthermore, the protected area ponds contained more rare and specialist insect species. Pond size was not a major variable for biodiversity overall.

Although there was generally little congruence in composition among the three taxa, dragonflies were a good surrogate for water beetles and floating macrophytes.

Well‐vegetated ponds, both in the water and along the margin, are the most suited to promoting biodiversity, as long as the vegetation is not too dense, and not dominated by one plant species.

Artificial ponds in production landscapes have great potential for conserving aquatic species, irrespective of land use, as long as there is management for macrophyte density and heterogeneity.
Intrinsically Distinct Role of Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Formation in Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody–Associated Vasculitis Compared to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: van Dam Laura S. , Kraaij Tineke , Kamerling Sylvia W. A. , Bakker Jaap A. , Scherer Uli H. , Rabelink Ton J. , van Kooten Cees , Teng Y. K. Onno
Published: July 2019

Objective

Different studies have demonstrated that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) may be involved in the pathophysiology of both antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)–associated vasculitis (AAV) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). AAV and SLE are clinically and pathologically divergent autoimmune diseases with different autoantibodies. However, the respective autoantigens recognized in AAV and SLE have been shown to be an intricate part of NETs. This study aimed to examine whether the mechanisms of NET formation and the composition of NETs are distinct between AAV and SLE.

Methods

To investigate this hypothesis, healthy neutrophils were stimulated with serum from patients with AAV (n = 80) and patients with SLE (n = 59), and the mechanisms of NET formation and NET composition were compared.

Results

Both patients with AAV and patients with SLE had excessive NET formation, which correlated with the extent of disease activity (in AAV r = 0.5, P < 0.0001; in SLE r = 0.35, P < 0.01). Lytic NET formation over several hours was observed in patients with AAV, as compared to rapid (within minutes), non‐lytic NET formation coinciding with clustering of neutrophils in patients with SLE. AAV‐induced NET formation was triggered independent of IgG ANCAs, whereas SLE immune complexes (ICx) induced NET formation through Fcγ receptor signaling. AAV‐induced NET formation was dependent on reactive oxygen species and peptidyl arginine deaminases, and AAV‐induced NETs were enriched for citrullinated histones (mean ± SEM 23 ± 2%). In contrast, SLE‐induced NETs had immunogenic properties, including binding with high mobility group box chromosomal protein 1 (mean ± SEM 30 ± 3%) and enrichment for oxidized mitochondrial DNA, and were involved in ICx formation.

Conclusion

The morphologic features, kinetics, induction pathways, and composition of excessive NET formation are all intrinsically distinct in AAV compared to SLE. Recognizing the diversity of NET formation between AAV and SLE provides a better understanding of the pathophysiologic role of NETs in these different autoimmune diseases.
Combinational effect of angiotensin receptor blocker and folic acid therapy on uric acid and creatinine level in hyperhomocysteinemia‐associated hypertension
Authors: Singh Yogendra , Samuel Vijaya Paul , Dahiya Sunita , Gupta Gaurav , Gillhotra Ritu , Mishra Anurag , Singh Mahaveer , SreeHarsha Nagaraja , Gubbiyappa Shiva Kumar , Tambuwala Murtaza M. , Chellappan Dinesh Kumar , Dua Kamal
Published: July 2019

Homocysteine [HSCH2CH2CH(NH2)COOH] (Hcy) is a sulfur‐containing amino acid of 135.18 Da of molecular weight, generated during conversion of methionine to cysteine. If there is a higher accumulation of Hcy in the blood, that is usually above 15 µmol/L, it leads to a condition referred to as hyperhomocysteinemia. A meta‐analysis of observational study suggested an elevated concentration of Hcy in blood, which is termed as the risk factors leading to ischemic heart disease and stroke. Further experimental studies stated that Hcy can lead to an increase in the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells and functional impairment of endothelial cells. The analyses confirmed some of the predictors for Hcy presence, such as serum uric acid (UA), systolic blood pressure, and hematocrit. However, angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) alone are inadequate for controlling UA and creatinine level, although the addition of folic acid may be beneficial in hypertensive patients who are known to have a high prevalence of elevated Hcy. We hypothesized that combination therapy with an ARB (olmesartan) and folic acid is a promising treatment for lowering the UA and creatinine level in hyperhomocysteinemia‐associated hypertension.
Metabolite profiling of guanfacine in plasma and urine of healthy Japanese subjects after oral administration of guanfacine extended‐release tablets
Authors: Inoue Yuji , Morita Hirotoshi , Nozawa Kohei , Kanazu Takushi
Published: July 2019

Guanfacine is used for the treatment of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS), metabolite profiling of guanfacine was performed in plasma and urine collected from healthy Japanese adults following repeated oral administration of guanfacine extended‐release formulation. Unchanged guanfacine was the most abundant component in both plasma and urine (from the MS signal intensity). In plasma, the M3 metabolite (a sulfate of hydroxy‐guanfacine) was the prominent metabolite; the M2 metabolite (a glucuronide of a metabolite formed by monooxidation of guanfacine), 3‐hydroxyguanfacine and several types of glucuronide at different positions on guanfacine were also detected. In urine, the M2 metabolite and 3‐hydroxyguanfacine were the principal metabolites. From metabolite analysis, the proposed main metabolic pathway of guanfacine is monooxidation on the dichlorobenzyl moiety, followed by glucuronidation or sulfation. A minor pathway is glucuronidation at different positions on guanfacine. As the prominent metabolites in plasma were glucuronide and sulfate of hydroxyguanfacine, which have no associated toxicity concerns, further toxicity studies of the metabolites, for example in animals, were not deemed necessary.
Co‐occurring defect analysis: A platform for analyzing birth defect co‐occurrence in registries
Authors: Benjamin Renata H. , Yu Xiao , Navarro Sanchez Maria Luisa , Chen Han , Mitchell Laura E. , Langlois Peter H. , Canfield Mark A. , Swartz Michael D. , Scheuerle Angela E. , Scott Daryl A. , Northrup Hope , Schaaf Christian P. , Ray Joseph W. , McLean Scott D. , Lupo Philip J. , Agopian A. J.
Published: July 2019

Background

Few studies have systematically evaluated birth defect co‐occurrence patterns, perhaps, in part, due to the lack of software designed to implement large‐scale, complex analytic methods.

Methods

We created an R‐based platform, “co‐occurring defect analysis” (CODA), designed to implement analyses of birth defect co‐occurrence patterns in birth defect registries. CODA uses an established algorithm for calculating the observed‐to‐expected ratio of a given birth defect combination, accounting for the known tendency of birth defects to co‐occur nonspecifically. To demonstrate CODA's feasibility, we evaluated the computational time needed to assess 2‐ to 5‐way combinations of major birth defects in the Texas Birth Defects Registry (TBDR) (1999–2014). We report on two examples of pairwise patterns, defects co‐occurring with trisomy 21 or with non‐syndromic spina bifida, to demonstrate proof‐of‐concept.

Results

We evaluated combinations of 175 major birth defects among 206,784 infants in the TBDR. CODA performed efficiently in the data set, analyzing 1.5 million 5‐way combinations in 18 hr. As anticipated, we identified large observed‐to‐expected ratios for the birth defects that co‐occur with trisomy 21 or spina bifida.

Conclusions

CODA is available for application to birth defect data sets and can be used to better understand co‐occurrence patterns. Co‐occurrence patterns elucidated by using CODA may be helpful for identifying new birth defect associations and may provide etiological insights regarding potentially shared pathogenic mechanisms. CODA may also have wider applications, such as assessing patterns of additional types of co‐occurrence patterns in other large data sets (e.g., medical records).
Novel Rhodamine B and 2H‐benzo[b][1,4]oxazin‐3(4H)‐one‐derived Fluorescent Sensor for Low pH Value Detection
Authors: Chen Mingjun , Bai Xueke , Qi Zhenping , Xiang Shoubo , Zuo Hua , Choi Kyung‐Min , Shin Dong‐Soo
Published: July 2019

A new fluorescent probe L fusing the rhodamine B scaffold with 2H‐benzo[b][1,4]oxazin‐3(4H)‐one moiety has been developed and applied as an acidic pH sensor. The ultraviolet (UV) and fluorescence spectra of the probe at different pH values were investigated in B–R buffer/MeOH (v: v = 3: 7). This probe showed increase of both the UV–Vis absorption and fluorescence emission from alkaline/neutral to acidic condition, reaching a strongest intensity at pH 2.13, but the intensities decreased when the pH decreased to 1.83. The color variation along the pH changes proved that the probe L can be used as a low‐cost optical sensor for the naked eye detection of proton in the present buffer.
Fear renewal activates cyclic adenosine monophosphate signaling in the dentate gyrus
Authors: Shi Yan-Wei , Fan Bu-Fang , Xue Li , Wang Xiao-Guang , Ou Xue-Ling
Published: July 2019

Background

Fear renewal, the context‐specific relapse of a conditioned fear after extinction, is a widely pursued model of post‐traumatic stress disorder and phobias. However, its cellular and molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. The dentate gyrus (DG) has emerged as a critical locus of plasticity with relevance to memory, anxiety disorders, and depression, and it contributes to fear memory retrieval. Here, we have identified the role of the DG in fear renewal and its molecular mechanism.

Materials and Methods

Muscimol (MUS), activator of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) forskolin (FSK), inhibitor of protein kinase A (PKA), Rip‐cAMP, and a phosphodiesterase inhibitor rolipram were infused into DG of standard deviation rats before renewal testing. cAMP levels after fear renewal was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The protein levels of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) isoforms were tested by western blot. At last, the roles of cAMP signaling were also tested in the acquisition of fear conditioning, fear retrieval, and extinction.

Results

Intra‐DG treatment of MUS and Rp‐cAMP impaired fear renewal. FSK and rolipram exhibited the opposite effect, which also occurred in the retrieval of original fear memory. This change in fear renewal was regulated by PDE4 isoforms PDE4A, PDE4A5, and PDE4D. In addition, FSK and rolipram facilitated the acquisition of fear conditioning in long‐term memory, but not short‐term memory, while Rp‐cAMP impaired long‐term memory. For extinction, FSK and rolipram inhibited extinction process, while Rp‐cAMP facilitated fear extinction.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrated that fear renewal activated cAMP signaling in the DG through decreased PDE4 activity. Because of the role of cAMP signaling in the acquisition or retrieval of fear conditioning and encoding of extinction, it is speculated that initial learning and extinction may have similarities in molecular mechanism, especially fear retrieval and fear renewal may share cAMP signaling pathway in the DG.
Measuring organizational capabilities to horizontal strategy implementation for conglomerates
Authors: Verma Pratima , Sharma Renduchintala Raghavendra Kumar , Chen Ling Hsiu
Published: July 2019

The horizontal strategy is recommended for the conglomerates by Porter to achieve competitive advantage. There is no established or standard way to execute a horizontal strategy. However, for the execution of a horizontal strategy in an organization, it requires advanced organizational capabilities. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to identify how to implement horizontal strategies in conglomerate firms. In particular, we investigated the extent to which organizational capabilities or competencies were related to the implementation of a horizontal strategy in conglomerate firms. Apart from this, we considered two organizational capabilities as a management control system and leadership styles. In this study, four novel hypotheses addressing primary constructs, that is, the interactive control system, collective, participatory, and transformative, have been explored. The data for this study were drawn from a sample survey of 122 firms in India. In addition, the data were analyzed by correlation, and then multiple regression analysis followed by the results of this analysis helps to identify the influence of leadership styles and interactive control system on horizontal strategy implementation. We argue through a theoretical and statistical analysis that demonstrates that collective, participative, and transformational leadership will contribute to the success of the horizontal strategy and lent good support to our hypotheses. This study helps the company to investigate the perceived role of organizational arrangements in the implementation of a horizontal strategy in conglomerate firms. This was done in an effort to provide guidelines for the effective use of organizational capabilities as drivers of horizontal strategy implementation. The study provides two key contributions in the field of strategic management: The first explicitly identified horizontal strategies are present in conglomerate firms; the other organizational capabilities that play a significant role in the implementation of horizontal strategy.
Can environmentally oriented CEOs and environmentally friendly suppliers boost the growth of small firms?
Authors: Andersén Jim , Jansson Christian , Ljungkvist Torbjörn
Published: July 2019

The core question addressed in the natural resource‐based view (NRBV) of the firm is how to develop and exploit resources beneficial for both the natural environment and firm performance. Due to the resource constraints and increased competition facing small manufacturing firms, achieving this is a challenge for such companies. Building on the NRBV and resource orchestration literatures, we examine the relationship between green purchasing capabilities (GPCs), CEO's environmental orientation (EO), and firm growth. Results from 304 Swedish small manufacturing firms indicate a significant relationship between GPC and growth, and this relationship is positively moderated by the EO of the CEO.
Assessment on clinical value of prostate health index in the diagnosis of prostate cancer
Authors: Zhang Guangying , Li Yanyan , Li Chao , Li Na , Li Zhanzhan , Zhou Qin
Published: July 2019

In this study, we performed a comprehensive estimation and assessment for the clinical value of prostate health index (PHI) in diagnosing prostate cancer. Using the bivariate mixed‐effect model, we calculated the following parameters and their 95% confidence internals (CIs), including sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio and symmetric receiver operator characteristic. Twenty eligible studies with a total number of 5543 subjects were included in the final analysis. The estimated sensitivity was 0.75 (95% CI: 0.70‐0.79) and the specificity was 0.69 (95% CI: 0.58‐0.83). The pooled area under the curve was 0.78 (95% CI: 0.74‐0.81). The combined positive likelihood ratio was 2.45 (95% CI: 2.19‐2.73) and the negative likelihood ratio was 0.36 (95% CI: 0.31‐0.43). The diagnostic odds ratio was 6.73 (95% CI: 5.38‐8.44). The posttest probability was 40% under the present positive likelihood ratio of 2.45. It seems there was no significant difference between Asian population and Caucasian population population in sensitivity and specificity. But the overlap of AUC 95% CI indicated that the diagnostic accuracy of PHI was slightly higher in the Asian population population setting than that in the Caucasian population population population (0.83 vs 0.76). Similarly, there was also overlap in AUC 95% CI, which suggested that sample size may be one of heterogeneity source. The PHI has a moderate diagnostic accuracy for detecting prostate cancer. The discrimination ability of PHI is slightly prior to free/total prostate‐specific antigen. It seems that ethnicity has an influence on the clinical value of PHI in the diagnostic of prostate cancer.
Social justice competencies for counselling and psychotherapy: Perceptions of experienced practitioners and implications for contemporary practice
Authors: Brown Jason , Wiendels Samantha , Eyre Vanessa
Published: July 2019

The purpose of the present study was to identify social justice competencies from the perspective of psychotherapists engaged in therapeutic practice. Twenty‐five therapists were asked, “What social justice competencies do psychotherapists need?” Responses were analysed using the concept mapping method. Nine participants grouped all unique interview responses into groups. Multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis were applied. The six competency areas identified included community activism, political influence on clinical work, critical consciousness, social responsibility, self‐awareness and personal style. The results were compared and contrasted with the literature. Considerable overlap was noted. The main differences concerned the need for collaboration as an advocacy tactic, as well as local knowledge about the pressing social issues affecting members of the community within which one practices.
Addiction as an indicator of vulnerability: The case of indoor tanning
Authors: Benet Suzeanne B. , Kraft Frederic B.
Published: July 2019

Research concerning the marketing of potentially harmful products to vulnerable consumer segments reveals difficulties in identifying vulnerable consumers. Businesses must be able to identify such segments if they are to avoid regulation and consumer activism. Whether a measure of nonsubstance addiction is an appropriate indicator of vulnerability is examined here in the context of indoor tanning. Three studies of young adult tanners indicate that (a) a modified alcohol addiction scale, the CAGE index, can be used to measure other addictions; (b) addicted indoor tanners have high motivation to meet social appearance norms and to experience the feeling of tanning, which may make them susceptible to marketing cues for indoor tanning; and (3) addicted and nonaddicted indoor tanners are similar in their knowledge of the dangers of indoor tanning, thus supporting the assertion that addicted tanners' decisions to tan indoors are likely more influenced by addiction than by informed decision making.
Understanding the patient experience of pain and discomfort during cardiac catheterization
Authors: Mall Anna , Girton T. Andrew , Yardley Kevin , Rossman Paige , Ohman E. Magnus , Jones William Schuyler , Granger Bradi B.
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Patient centeredness is an essential component of high‐quality care, yet little is known regarding the patient experience during procedures performed in the cardiac catheterization lab.

Background

Available literature focuses on the safe delivery of sedation, but does not address patient‐reported satisfaction or comfort. Further delineation of how procedural factors impact the patient experience is needed.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, exploratory analysis of adult cardiac catheterization outpatients (n = 375) receiving physician ordered, nurse administered procedural sedation (benzodiazepine and/or opioids) between April and June, 2017. Data were abstracted from the procedural database, Electronic Health Record, and Press Ganey© surveys.

Results

The mean age was 63 (SD 12.2), a majority were male (n = 226; 60%), white (n = 271; 73%), and overweight (mean body mass index = 29, SD 6.8). Patient‐reported satisfaction with pain control and perceived staff concern for comfort were >75th percentile (Press Ganey© survey), with no difference in preprocedure and postprocedure pain scores (p = .596). Intraprocedural medication dose range and mean frequency were highly variable: midazolam (0.25–5.5 mg; 1.48); fentanyl (12.5–200 mcg; 1.63); and hydromorphone (0.5–2.5 mg; 1.33). Median time interval between administration of initial sedation and local anesthetic was 6 min. Patients with longer intervals had less frequent dosing (p < .001) and less total procedural sedation (p < .001). Sensitivity analysis revealed that trainee/fellow involvement (p = .001), younger age (p = .002), and shorter time intervals (p < .001) were associated with increased frequency and larger total dose.

Conclusions

Waiting to gain vascular access following administration of procedural was associated with less frequent subsequent dosing, lower overall administration, and similar patient satisfaction. Optimizing processes for administering periprocedural sedation may allow for less medication without impacting patient experience.
Fixed‐Bed Heat Storage – Mathematical Modeling Approaches
Authors: Rönsch Stefan , Auer Bernhard
Published: July 2019

While renewable heat makes up only 13 % of overall German heat consumption, the share of renewable electricity produced from wind, solar, water, and geothermal power already reached 36 % of overall electricity consumption in 2017. One measure to support the integration of renewable heat in the German energy system is the use of heat storage systems. Although water‐based heat storage systems for temperatures up to 100 °C are state of the art, systems for temperatures up to several hundred degrees Celsius are still under investigation or in the demonstration phase. Therefore, this work focuses on the development of a simulation model for analyzing and engineering fixed‐bed thermal storage systems that are filled with an inert bulk material such as stone fragments.
Enzyme Mimic Based on a Self‐Assembled Chitosan/DNA Hybrid Exhibits Superior Activity and Tolerance
Authors: Wang Zhen‐Gang , Li Yunzhe , Wang Hui , Wan Kaiwei , Liu Qing , Shi Xinghua , Ding Baoquan
Published: July 2019

Nature has evolved enzymes with exquisite active sites that catalyze biotransformations with high efficiency. However, the exploitation of natural enzymes is often hampered by poor stability, and natural enzyme production and purification are costly. Supramolecular self‐assembly allows the construction of biomimetic active sites, although it is challenging to produce such artificial enzymes with catalytic activity and stability that rival those of natural enzymes. We report herein a strategy to produce a horseradish peroxidase (HRP) mimic based on the assembly of chitosan with a G‐quadruplex DNA (G‐DNA)/hemin complex. A network‐like morphology of the assembled nanomaterial was observed together with a remarkable enhancement of peroxidase activity induced by the chitosan and G‐DNA components. The turnover frequency and catalytic efficiency of the enzyme‐mimicking material reached or even surpassed those of HRP. Moreover, the catalytic complex exhibited higher tolerance than HRP to harsh environments, such as extremely low pH or high temperatures. In accord with the experimental and simulated results, it is concluded that the spatial distribution of the G‐DNA and chitosan components and the exposure of the catalytic center may facilitate the coordination of substrates by the hemin iron, leading to the superior activity of the material. Our work provides a simple and affordable avenue to produce highly active and robust enzyme‐mimicking catalytic nanomaterials.
EvaluatioN of ApiXaban in strOke and systemic embolism prevention in patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation in clinical practice Setting in France, rationale and design of the NAXOS: SNIIRAM study
Authors: Picard Fabien , Van Ganse Eric , Ducrocq Gregory , Danchin Nicolas , Falissard Bruno , Hanon Olivier , Belhassen Manon , Ginoux Marine , Lefevre Cinira , Cotte François‐Emery , Mahé Isabelle , Steg Philippe G.
Published: July 2019

Non‐vitamin K antagonists oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have recently challenged vitamin‐K antagonists (VKAs) for stroke and systemic embolism prophylaxis in patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). Nevertheless, little information is available in routine clinical practice for France. The aim of this study is to describe the effectiveness and safety of apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran or VKAs in routine clinical practice in adult NVAF patients for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in France. The NAXOS study is a nationwide observational retrospective cohort generated from the French national healthcare insurance database (SNIIRAM—a comprehensive in‐ and outpatient healthcare consumption database), consisting of eight distinct sub‐cohorts of anticoagulant‐naive or anticoagulant‐experienced patients diagnosed with NVAF, newly initiated with either NOACs (dabigatran, rivaroxaban or apixaban) or VKAs. Patients will be included if initiating a new anticoagulant treatment for AF during the study period from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2016. Primary effectiveness outcome will be the incidence of stroke or systemic thromboembolic events; primary safety outcome will be the incidence of major bleeding during the exposure period. The NAXOS study will provide routine clinical practice data on the effectiveness and safety profiles of apixaban vs other NOACs and VKAs in the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in adult patients with NVAF in clinical practice conditions in France.
Non‐invasive coronary CT angiography‐derived fractional flow reserve: A benchmark study comparing the diagnostic performance of four different computational methodologies
Authors: Carson Jason Matthew , Pant Sanjay , Roobottom Carl , Alcock Robin , Javier Blanco Pablo , Alberto Bulant Carlos , Vassilevski Yuri , Simakov Sergey , Gamilov Timur , Pryamonosov Roman , Liang Fuyou , Ge Xinyang , Liu Yue , Nithiarasu Perumal
Published: July 2019

Non‐invasive coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography‐derived fractional flow reserve (cFFR) is an emergent approach to determine the functional relevance of obstructive coronary lesions. Its feasibility and diagnostic performance has been reported in several studies. It is unclear if differences in sensitivity and specificity between these studies are due to study design, population, or "computational methodology." We evaluate the diagnostic performance of four different computational workflows for the prediction of cFFR using a limited data set of 10 patients, three based on reduced‐order modelling and one based on a 3D rigid‐wall model. The results for three of these methodologies yield similar accuracy of 6.5% to 10.5% mean absolute difference between computed and measured FFR. The main aspects of modelling which affected cFFR estimation were choice of inlet and outlet boundary conditions and estimation of flow distribution in the coronary network.

One of the reduced‐order models showed the lowest overall deviation from the clinical FFR measurements, indicating that reduced‐order models are capable of a similar level of accuracy to a 3D model. In addition, this reduced‐order model did not include a lumped pressure‐drop model for a stenosis, which implies that the additional effort of isolating a stenosis and inserting a pressure‐drop element in the spatial mesh may not be required for FFR estimation.

The present benchmark study is the first of this kind, in which we attempt to homogenize the data required to compute FFR using mathematical models. The clinical data utilised in the cFFR workflows are made publicly available online.
Methane Chemisorption on Oxide‐Supported Pt Single Atom
Authors: Fung Victor , Hu Guoxiang , Tao Franklin (Feng) , Jiang De‐en
Published: July 2019

Methane chemisorption has been recently demonstrated on the rutile IrO2(110) surface. However, it remains unclear how the general requirements are for methane chemisorption or complexation with a single atom on an oxide surface. By exploring methane adsorption on Pt1 substitutionally doped on many rutile‐type oxides using hybrid density functional theory, we show that the occupancy of the Pt dz2 orbital is the key to methane chemisorption. Pt single atom on the semiconducting or wide‐gap oxides such as TiO2 and GeO2 strongly chemisorbs methane, because the empty Pt dz2 orbital is located in the gap and can effectively accept σ‐electron donation from the methane C−H bond. In contrast, Pt single atom on metallic oxides such as IrO2 and RuO2 does not chemisorb methane, because the Pt dz2 orbital strongly mixes with the support‐oxide electronic states and become more occupied, losing its ability to chemisorb methane. This study sheds further light on the impact of the interaction between a Pt single atom and the oxide support on methane adsorption.
Concomitant Intake of Coca‐Cola to Manage the Drug–Drug Interaction Between Velpatasvir and Omeprazole Studied in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: van Seyen Minou , Colbers Angela , Abbink Evertine J. , Drenth Joost P.H. , Burger David M.
Published: July 2019

We aimed to evaluate the effect of the acid beverage Coca‐Cola on the pharmacokinetics of velpatasvir (VEL) when given with omeprazole. This was an open‐label, randomized, crossover trial in 11 healthy adults. A single dose of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) 400/100 mg was administered alone (reference) or with omeprazole 40 mg once daily with water (intervention I); in the intervention II arm, omeprazole 40 mg was combined with 250 mL of Coca‐Cola. Geometric mean ratios (GMRs) were calculated for VEL area under the concentration‐time curve from zero to infinity (AUC0−inf) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax). VEL exposure was reduced by 26.7% when SOF/VEL was coadministered with omeprazole vs. reference: GMRs (90% confidence interval (CI)) were 73.3% (55.6–96.8) and 69.1% (52.3–91.2) for AUC0‐inf and Cmax, respectively. Intake of SOF/VEL with Coca‐Cola compensated for the interaction with omeprazole and resulted in a higher VEL exposure. GMRs (90% CI) were 161.6% (122.4–213.3) for AUC0‐inf and 143.9% (109.0–190.0) for Cmax. Therefore, Coca‐Cola can be used to overcome the drug–drug interaction between VEL and omeprazole.
First‐mover advantages in green innovation—Opportunities and threats for financial performance: A longitudinal analysis
Authors: Przychodzen Wojciech , Leyva‐de la Hiz Dante I. , Przychodzen Justyna
Published: July 2019

Although the analysis of the relation between green innovative activism and financial performance is a popular topic, the existing literature has rarely addressed the tangible benefits that companies may enjoy if they engage in green innovations more than their competitors. This study tries to fill the above gap on the basis of an empirical analysis of a panel data set of the Standard & Poor's 500 companies over the years 1999–2016. We find that high green innovative activism, measured by patent data, only harms current financial performance when not carried out in conjunction with other types of innovative activism. In addition, we find that being the most active in green innovation in absolute terms results in significant positive lagged gains in stock market valuations. However, too much concentration on green innovation relative to other types of innovative activism has a negative influence on both accounting and stock market performance.
Endoscopic ultrasound guided fine‐needle aspiration vs core needle biopsy for solid pancreatic lesions: Comparison of diagnostic accuracy and procedural efficiency
Authors: Syed Aslam , Babich Olivia , Rao Bharat , Singh Shailendra , Carleton Neil , Gulati Abhishek , Kulkarni Archana , Garg Mrinal , Farah Katie , Kochhar Gursimran , Morrissey Suzanne , Mitre Marcia , Kulkarni Abhijit , Dhawan Manish , Silverman Jan F. , Pharaon Majed , Thakkar Shyam
Published: July 2019

Background

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guided core needle biopsies (CNB) are increasingly being performed to diagnose solid pancreatic lesions. However, studies have been conflicting in terms of CNB improving diagnostic accuracy and procedural efficiency vs fine‐needle aspiration (FNA), which this study aims to elucidate.

Methods

Data were prospectively collected on consecutive patients with solid pancreatic or peripancreatic lesions at a single tertiary care center from November 2015 to November 2016 that underwent either FNA or CNB. Patient demographics, characteristics of lesions, diagnostic accuracy, final and follow‐up pathology, use of rapid on‐site evaluation (ROSE), complications, and procedure variables were obtained.

Results

A total of 75 FNA and 48 CNB were performed; of these, 13 patients had both. Mean passes were lower with CNB compared to FNA (2.4 vs 2.9, P = .02). Use of ROSE was higher for FNA (97.3% vs 68.1%, P = .001). Mean procedure time was shorter with CNB (34.1 minutes vs 51.2 minutes, P = .02) and diagnostic accuracy was similar (89.2% vs 89.4%, P = .98). There was no difference in diagnostic accuracy when ROSE was performed for CNB vs not performed (93.5% vs 85.7%, P = .58). Additionally, diagnostic accuracy of combined FNA and CNB procedures was 92.3%, which was comparable to FNA (P = .73) or CNB (P = .52) alone.

Conclusion

FNA and CNB had comparable safety and diagnostic accuracy. Use of CNB resulted in less number of passes and shorter procedure time as compared to FNA. Moreover, diagnostic accuracy for CNB with or without ROSE was similar.