bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coordinating multiple mobile robots for obstacle avoidance using cloud computing
Authors: Song Kai‐Tai , Sun Yu‐Xuan
Published: September 2020

This study presents a motion planning method for coordinating multiple mobile robots for collision‐free navigation. A control architecture that uses cloud computing is proposed for the acquisition of real‐time robotic data and to coordinate multiple robots in an unstructured environment. The system consists of collision‐free path planning for multiple robots, obstacle avoidance, and navigation control. The path planning method was developed based on the optimal reciprocal collision avoidance (ORCA) algorithm to generate a velocity set of each robot in the system. A laser scanner is used to detect obstacles for each robot. Appropriate obstacle avoidance behaviors are generated using sensory information. A behavior‐fusion control scheme combines obstacle avoidance and collision‐free path planning to coordinate multiple robots. The proposed anti‐collision motion planning method for multiple robots prevents collisions with unexpected obstacles and with other robots in the environment. The experimental results show that multiple mobile robots can navigate to targets that are assigned by the cloud server without colliding with other robots, regardless of whether there are unexpected static or dynamic obstacles in the environment.
Purification of the phytase enzyme fromLactobacillus plantarum: The effect on pansy growth and macro–micro element content
Authors: Karagöz Fazilet Parlakova , Demir Yeliz , Kotan Merve Şenol , Dursun Atilla , Beydemir Şükrü , Dikbaş Neslihan
Published: September 2020

In the present study, the phytase enzyme was purified fromLactobacillus plantarumwith a 3.08% recovery, 9.57‐purification fold, and with a specific activity of 278.82 EU/mg protein. Then, the effects of the 5 EU and 10 EU purified phytase was determined on the plant growth, quality, the macro–micro nutrient content of pansy (Viola×wittrockiana), which is of great importance in ornamental plants industry. The research was established under greenhouse conditions with natural light in 2017. The pansy seeds were coated with phytase enzyme solution, sown in a peat environment, and transferred to pots at the seedling period. In general, the 5 EU and 10 EU applications increase plant height, the number of leaves per plant, the number of side branches per plant, and flower height parameters compared to control. Also, micro‐ and macronutrient values in soil and plant samples were examined. According to the results, the phytase application on pansy cultivation positively affected the properties and yielded high quality of plants.
Projektbericht – Seilnetzbrücke über die Donau bei Inzigkofen
Authors: Käpplein Saskia , Scheible Mario , Breinlinger Frank
Published: September 2020

Die Planungsaufgabe bestand darin, eine besondere Brücke für den kurfürstlichen Park in Inzigkofen mit seiner spannenden Historie zu entwerfen – eine „Donauperle“ in einer besonderen Umgebung. Transparenz, Alleinstellung und Erlebnis waren hierbei die Entwurfskriterien. Entstanden ist eine Seilnetzbrücke, die sich wie ein Spinnennetz über den Fluss spannt und auf dessen „Fäden“ ein „Grashalm“ in Form einer Gehfläche liegt. Im Rahmen der Formfindung bestand für die neben der 1 m breiten Gehfläche angeordneten Tragseile die Schwierigkeit, diese Seile so vorzuspannen, dass sie sich an der Abtragung der Vertikallasten angemessen beteiligen. Durch die gewählte Geometrie und die entsprechend ausgelegte Vorspannung wird der Steg zum „bewegenden“ Erlebnis.
A review of recent developments based on chemiluminescence detection systems for pesticides analysis
Authors: Al Yahyai Iman , Al‐Lawati Haider A.J.
Published: September 2020

Chemiluminescence is one of the most coveted methods for sensitive determination of pesticides in food and environmental samples. To date, many methods have been developed for qualitative and quantitative analysis of pesticides, ranging from traditional to advanced methods. This study outlines the progress in the conventional and advanced analytical methods, coupled to a chemiluminescence detection system, that are employed for the determination of pesticides in food and environmental samples. Different analytical methods including chromatographic methods, flow‐based systems, and paper‐based systems are reviewed in this paper. As well, new advances in the application of nanomaterials, aptamer, and molecularly imprinted polymers are highlighted. We also address the challenges and difficulties associated with these methods. Finally, we highlight the future direction in this active field of research.
Inhibition of E. coli Host RNA Polymerase Allows Efficient Extracellular Recombinant Protein Production by Enhancing Outer Membrane Leakiness
Authors: Kastenhofer Jens , Rettenbacher Lukas , Feuchtenhofer Lukas , Mairhofer Juergen , Spadiut Oliver
Published: September 2020

With the growing interest in continuous cultivation of Escherichia coli, secretion of product to the medium is not only a benefit, but a necessity in future bioprocessing. In this study, it is shown that induced decoupling of growth and heterologous gene expression in the E. coli X‐press strain (derived from BL21(DE3)) facilitates extracellular recombinant protein production. The effect of the process parameters temperature and specific glucose consumption rate (qS) on growth, productivity, lysis and leakiness, is investigated, to find the parameter space allowing extracellular protein production. Two model proteins are used, Protein A (SpA) and a heavy‐chain single‐domain antibody (VHH), and performance is compared to the industrial standard strain BL21(DE3). It is shown that inducible growth repression in the X‐press strain greatly mitigates the effect of metabolic burden under different process conditions. Furthermore, temperature and qS are used to control productivity and leakiness. In the X‐press strain, extracellular SpA and VHH titer reach up to 349 and 19.6 mg g−1, respectively, comprising up to 90% of the total soluble product, while keeping cell lysis at a minimum. The findings demonstrate that the X‐press strain constitutes a valuable host for extracellular production of recombinant protein with E. coli.
New soluble angiopoietin analog of Hepta‐ANG1 prevents pathological vascular leakage
Authors: Liu Pan , Ryczko Michael , Xie Xinfang , Baardsnes Jason , Lord‐Dufour Simon , Duroche Yves , Hicks Emily Anne , Taiyab Aftab , Sheardown Heather , Quaggin Susan E. , Jin Jing
Published: September 2020

Vascular leak is a key driver of organ injury in diseases, and strategies that reduce enhanced permeability and vascular inflammation are promising therapeutic targets. Activation of the angiopoietin‐1 (ANG1)‐Tie2 tyrosine kinase signaling pathway is an important regulator of vascular quiescence. Here we describe the design and construction of a new soluble ANG1 mimetic that is a potent activator of endothelial Tie2 in vitro and in vivo. Using a chimeric fusion strategy, we replaced the extracellular matrix (ECM) binding and oligomerization domain of ANG1 with a heptameric scaffold derived from the C‐terminus of serum complement protein C4‐binding protein α. We refer to this new fusion protein biologic as Hepta‐ANG1, which forms a stable heptamer and induces Tie2 phosphorylation in cultured cells, and in the lung following intravenous injection of mice. Injection of Hepta‐ANG1 ameliorates vascular endothelial growth factor‐ and lipopolysaccharide‐induced vascular leakage, in keeping with the known functions of Angpt1‐Tie2 in maintaining quiescent vascular stability. The new Hepta‐ANG1 fusion is easy to produce and displays remarkable stability with high multimericity that can potently activate Tie2. It could be a new candidate ANG1 mimetic therapy for treatments of inflammatory vascular leak, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome and sepsis.
European guidelines from the EHTG and ESCP for Lynch syndrome: an updated third edition of the Mallorca guidelines based on gene and gender
Authors: Seppälä T T , Latchford A , Negoi I , Sampaio Soares A , Jimenez-Rodriguez R , Sánchez-Guillén L , Evans D G , Ryan N , Crosbie E J , Dominguez-Valentin M , Burn J , Kloor M , Knebel Doeberitz M von , Duijnhoven F J B van , Quirke P , Sampson J R , Møller P , Möslein G ,   the European Hereditary Tumour Group (EHTG) and European Society of Coloproctology (ESCP)
Published: September 2020

Background

Lynch syndrome is the most common genetic predisposition for hereditary cancer but remains underdiagnosed. Large prospective observational studies have recently increased understanding of the effectiveness of colonoscopic surveillance and the heterogeneity of cancer risk between genotypes. The need for gene- and gender-specific guidelines has been acknowledged.

Methods

The European Hereditary Tumour Group (EHTG) and European Society of Coloproctology (ESCP) developed a multidisciplinary working group consisting of surgeons, clinical and molecular geneticists, pathologists, epidemiologists, gastroenterologists, and patient representation to conduct a graded evidence review. The previous Mallorca guideline format was used to revise the clinical guidance. Consensus for the guidance statements was acquired by three Delphi voting rounds.

Results

Recommendations for clinical and molecular identification of Lynch syndrome, surgical and endoscopic management of Lynch syndrome-associated colorectal cancer, and preventive measures for cancer were produced. The emphasis was on surgical and gastroenterological aspects of the cancer spectrum. Manchester consensus guidelines for gynaecological management were endorsed. Executive and layperson summaries were provided.

Conclusion

The recommendations from the EHTG and ESCP for identification of patients with Lynch syndrome, colorectal surveillance, surgical management of colorectal cancer, lifestyle and chemoprevention in Lynch syndrome that reached a consensus (at least 80 per cent) are presented.
The question of sanity restoration in jail
Authors: Felthous Alan R.
Published: September 2020

Severe mental illness, especially psychotic disorders that are worsening, acute or complicated, normally require intensive psychiatric care and treatment that is most appropriately provided in a mental hospital. For criminal defendants, transfer to a forensic security hospital has traditionally been the means of achieving hospital care for mentally disordered defendants who have been found incompetent to stand trial or not guilty by reason of insanity. In recent years, with the shortage of intermediate and long‐term hospital beds in the United States, including forensic security hospital beds, jail‐based competency restoration programs are being established, seemingly obviating hospital transfer. Potential advantages of and concerns about jail‐based, as opposed to hospital‐based, competency restoration programs are discussed in the literature. If defendants with severe mental illness traditionally treated in a forensic security hospital for competency restoration are now treated for competency restoration in jail, it is not inconceivable that insanity acquittees could one day be treated in jail for sanity restoration. With the premise that it is better to consider the potential consequences before this becomes a serious proposal and is implemented, this analysis examine the advantages and concerns that have been put forth for jail‐based competence restoration programs as they may or may not apply to jail‐based sanity restoration programs. Substantial commonality is recognized, but also some differences, as well as reason for skepticism of the purported virtues of either alternative to care and treatment in forensic security hospitals.
Hospital treatment of persons found not guilty by reason of insanity
Authors: Kapoor Reena , Wasser Tobias D. , Funaro Melissa C. , Norko Michael A.
Published: September 2020

After being found not guilty by reason of insanity (NGRI), individuals are typically admitted to a secure forensic hospital for evaluation and treatment. This patient population can pose a challenge to clinicians in the hospital setting due to significant violence risk, complex psychiatric presentations, and scrutiny from oversight boards and the public. This article reviews the scientific literature around several key aspects of hospital‐based treatment of insanity acquittees, including the management of inpatient aggression, the provision of specific treatments to acquittees, the assessment of violence risk and readiness for release, and the process of community transition. The authors conclude that the existing literature is heavily weighted toward the study of risk assessment and recidivism, with relatively little attention paid to the study of therapeutic modalities and recovery‐oriented care in this population.
Efficacy of bendamustine and rituximab in unfit patients with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Indirect comparison with ibrutinib in a real‐world setting. A GIMEMA‐ERIC and US study
Authors: Cuneo Antonio , Mato Anthony R. , Rigolin Gian Matteo , Piciocchi Alfonso , Gentile Massimo , Laurenti Luca , Allan John N. , Pagel John M. , Brander Danielle M. , Hill Brian T. , Winter Allison , Lamanna Nicole , Tam Constantine S. , Jacobs Ryan , Lansigan Frederick , Barr Paul M. , Shadman Mazyar , Skarbnik Alan P. , Pu Jeffrey J. , Sehgal Alison R. , Schuster Stephen J. , Shah Nirav N. , Ujjani Chaitra S. , Roeker Lindsey , Orlandi Ester Maria , Billio Atto , Trentin Livio , Spacek Martin , Marchetti Monia , Tedeschi Alessandra , Ilariucci Fiorella , Gaidano Gianluca , Doubek Michael , Farina Lucia , Molica Stefano , Di Raimondo Francesco , Coscia Marta , Mauro Francesca Romana , de la Serna Javier , Medina Perez Angeles , Ferrarini Isacco , Cimino Giuseppe , Cavallari Maurizio , Cucci Rosalba , Vignetti Marco , Foà Robin , Ghia Paolo ,   the GIMEMA, European Research Initiative (ERIC) on CLL, US study group
Published: September 2020

Limited information is available on the efficacy of front‐line bendamustine and rituximab (BR) in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) with reduced renal function or coexisting conditions. We therefore analyzed a cohort of real‐world patients and performed a matched adjusted indirect comparison with a cohort of patients treated with ibrutinib. One hundred and fifty‐seven patients with creatinine clearance (CrCl) <70 mL/min and/or CIRS score >6 were treated with BR. The median age was 72 years; 69% of patients had ≥2 comorbidities and the median CrCl was 59.8 mL/min. 17.6% of patients carried TP53 disruption. The median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 45 months; TP53 disruption was associated with a shorter PFS (P = 0.05). The overall survival (OS) at 12, 24, and 36 months was 96.2%, 90.1%, and 79.5%, respectively. TP53 disruption was associated with an increased risk of death (P = 0.01). Data on 162 patients ≥65 years treated with ibrutinib were analyzed and compared with 165 patients ≥65 years treated with BR. Factors predicting for a longer PFS at multivariable analysis in the total patient population treated with BR and ibrutinib were age (HR 1.06, 95% CI 1.02‐1.10, P < 0.01) and treatment with ibrutinib (HR 0.55, 95% CI 0.33‐0.93, P = 0.03). In a post hoc analysis of patients in advanced stage, a significant PFS advantage was observed in patient who had received ibrutinib (P = 0.03), who showed a trend for OS advantage (P = 0.08). We arrived at the following conclusions: (a) BR is a relatively effective first‐line regimen in a real‐world population of unfit patients without TP53 disruption, (b) ibrutinib provided longer disease control than BR in patients with advanced disease stage.
Integrated genomic analysis identifies a genetic mutation model predicting response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in melanoma
Authors: Jiang Junjie , Ding Yongfeng , Wu Mengjie , Chen Yanyan , Lyu Xiadong , Lu Jun , Wang Haiyong , Teng Lisong
Published: September 2020

Several biomarkers such as tumor mutation burden (TMB), neoantigen load (NAL), programmed cell‐death receptor 1 ligand (PD‐L1) expression, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) have been developed for predicting response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in melanoma. However, some limitations including the undefined cut‐off value, poor uniformity of test platform, and weak reliability of prediction have restricted the broad application in clinical practice. In order to identify a clinically actionable biomarker and explore an effective strategy for prediction, we developed a genetic mutation model named as immunotherapy score (ITS) for predicting response to ICIs therapy in melanoma, based on whole‐exome sequencing data from previous studies. We observed that patients with high ITS had better durable clinical benefit and survival outcomes than patients with low ITS in three independent cohorts, as well as in the meta‐cohort. Notably, the prediction capability of ITS was more robust than that of TMB. Remarkably, ITS was not only an independent predictor of ICIs therapy, but also combined with TMB or LDH to better predict response to ICIs than any single biomarker. Moreover, patients with high ITS harbored the immunotherapy‐sensitive characteristics including high TMB and NAL, ultraviolet light damage, impaired DNA damage repair pathway, arrested cell cycle signaling, and frequent mutations in NF1 and SERPINB3/4. Overall, these findings deserve prospective investigation in the future and may help guide clinical decisions on ICIs therapy for patients with melanoma.
Patient‐reported reasons for discontinuing psychotherapy in a low‐cost psychoanalytic community clinic
Authors: Cooke Jessica , Ivey Gavin , Godfrey Celia , Grady Jacqueline , Dean Suzanne , Beaufoy Jeanette , Tonge Bruce
Published: September 2020

Using data from an outcome study of adult individual psychoanalytic psychotherapy, conducted in a low‐cost Australian clinic, a mixed‐methods approach was employed to investigate patient discontinuation. This paper addresses the qualitative component of the discontinuation study, which explored patients’ reasons for leaving the clinic service upon assessment or in treatment proper. Of 205 patients commencing clinic contact, 41% discontinued during or shortly after the four‐week assessment period, while 40.5% of patients beginning psychotherapy withdrew before reaching the two‐year treatment limit. Across these two groups, former patients were interviewed about their therapy experience and decision to discontinue. Thematic analysis of 20 interview transcripts generated five descriptive categories of discomfort or dissatisfaction prompting discontinuation: clinic factors, therapist factors, patient factors, therapist–patient relationship factors and therapy factors. Findings suggest that experience of the clinic setting itself, together with negative patient perceptions of therapists and therapist interactional style, weres significant influences and that dissatisfaction with the psychotherapy process and outcome was more relevant than problematic patient factors in treatment withdrawal. A number of patients, mainly late discontinuers, reported positive experiences of psychotherapy and significant treatment gains. Implications of the findings, with specific emphasis on psychoanalytic treatment settings, are discussed.
Etoposide Loaded SPION‐PNIPAM Nanoparticles Improve the in vitro Therapeutic Outcome on Metastatic Prostate Cancer Cells via Enhanced Apoptosis
Authors: Erkisa Merve , Ari Ferda , Ulku Irem , Khodadust Rouhollah , Yar Yasemin , Yagci Acar Havva , Ulukaya Engin
Published: September 2020

Prostate cancer is among the leading causes of death worldwide because its metastatic form is a deadly disease. Therefore, the development of new chemotherapeutics is of immense importance. Nanoparticle technology seems to provide diverse options in this regard. Therefore, poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) loaded with Etoposide were prepared in small sizes (57 nm) and with 3.5 % drug content to improve the efficiency of Etoposide in prostate cancer therapy. Sustained release of the drug was achieved, which found to be sensitive to low pH and high temperature. The anti‐growth activity of SPION‐PNIPAM‐Etoposide formulation against metastatic prostate cancer cells (PC‐3, LNCaP) were investigated by SRB assay, then, confirmed by ATP assay. Mode of cell death was evaluated by using flow cytometry analyses. A significant improvement of nanoformulated drug was observed at 5–10 μg/ml doses of the drug in both cell lines. More importantly, this formulation enhanced the cytotoxic effect of Etoposide on PC‐3 cells, which is considered more resistant to Etoposide than LNCaP and reduced the IC50 value by 55 % reaching to 4.5 μg drug/ml, which is a very significant improvement in the literature. It was clearly shown that nanoformulated drug provided about 3‐fold increases in caspase‐dependent early apoptotic cells in PC‐3 cells. The novel formulation seems to successfully cause cell death of especially PC‐3 metastatic prostate cancer cells. It should therefore be taken into consideration for further animal studies as a novel potent anticancer agent.
Chemical Composition and Antiproliferative Effect of Essential Oils of Four Solidago Species (S. canadensis, S. gigantea, S. virgaurea and S.×niederederi)
Authors: Nkuimi Wandjou Joice Guileine , Quassinti Luana , Gudžinskas Zigmantas , Nagy David U. , Cianfaglione Kevin , Bramucci Massimo , Maggi Filippo
Published: September 2020

There is a growing interest in the research of natural products with potent activity in the prevention and treatment of diseases. Thereby, essential oil phytochemicals have demonstrated broad bioactivities. This study highlights the chemical composition of essential oils obtained from the leaves and inflorescences of diverse species of the genus Solidago (Solidago canadensis, Solidago gigantea, Solidago virgaurea and Solidago×niederederi), also known as Goldenrod, through GC/MS analysis, and their antiproliferative activity on three human tumor cell lines (MDA‐MB 231, A375 and HCT116) by the MTT assay. The most represented chemical classes in the essential oils were oxygenated sesquiterpenes, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, oxygenated monoterpenes and monoterpene hydrocarbons, with a remarkable contribution of compounds such as germacrene D (3.89–19.51 %), α‐pinene (3.59–18.82 %), bornyl acetate (3.30–12.73 %) and caryophyllene oxide (3.07–9.18 %). Chemical quali‐ and quantitative differences were noticed between the leaves and flowers of the same species, as well as between the studied species. The MTT assay showed that the essential oils from the leaves were more active than those from the flower ones. The essential oil having the highest impact on cell viability was that from S.×niederederi (IC50=12.93, 6.72, and 6.82 μg/ml), followed by S. virgaurea (IC50=13.39, 7.96, and 8.36 μg/ml) and finally S. gigantea (IC50=18.04, 5.94, and 8.10 μg/ml) on MDA‐MB 231, A375 and HCT116 cell lines, respectively. The essential oil from S. canadensis showed the lowest activity (IC50=29.33, 12.63, and 18.03 μg/ml, respectively). Taken together, these findings highlight the Solidago species as good sources of cytotoxic compounds. Further studies are encouraged on the in vivo effects and safety of these products.
Fc‐Binding Antibody‐Recruiting Molecules Targeting Prostate‐Specific Membrane Antigen: Defucosylation of Antibody for Efficacy Improvement**
Authors: Sasaki Koichi , Harada Minori , Yoshikawa Takuma , Tagawa Hiroshi , Harada Yui , Yonemitsu Yoshikazu , Ryujin Takaaki , Kishimura Akihiro , Mori Takeshi , Katayama Yoshiki
Published: September 2020

Synthetic small molecules that redirect endogenous antibodies to target cells are promising drug candidates because they overcome the potential shortcomings of therapeutic antibodies, such as immunogenicity and the need for intravenous delivery. Previously, we reported a novel class of bispecific molecules targeting the antibody Fc region and folate receptor, named Fc‐binding antibody‐recruiting molecules (Fc‐ARMs). Fc‐ARMs can theoretically recruit most endogenous antibodies, inducing antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) to eliminate cancer cells. Herein, we describe new Fc‐ARMs that target prostate cancer (Fc‐ARM‐Ps). Fc‐ARM‐Ps recruited antibodies to cancer cells expressing prostate‐specific membrane antigen but did so with lower efficiency compared with Fc‐ARMs targeting the folate receptor. Upon recruitment by Fc‐ARM‐P, defucosylated antibodies efficiently activated natural killer cells and induced ADCC, whereas antibodies with intact N‐glycans did not. The results suggest that the affinity between recruited antibodies and CD16a, a type of Fc receptor expressed on immune cells, could be a key factor controlling immune activation in the Fc‐ARM strategy.
Potential risk of perioperative thromboembolism in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome who undergo transcatheter aortic valve implantation: A case series
Authors: Hoshi Tomoya , Hiraya Daigo , Sato Akira , Ieda Masaki
Published: September 2020

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by a positive serum antiphospholipid antibody status. Patients with APS usually have an underlying hypercoagulable state, which can increase the risk of perioperative thromboembolism. We describe three patients with APS who underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation for symptomatic severe aortic stenosis. Of them, two had complicated cerebrovascular events, and the other had no complications. Careful antithrombotic management is essential to minimize the risk of thromboembolism and bleeding in patients with APS.
Agranulocytosis secondary to zinc excess: Clinically relevant observations, including response to G‐CSF and oral copper
Authors: Weiden Paul L. , Dunker Marlowe , Corwin David J.
Published: September 2020

Anemia and leukopenia because of copper deficiency can be mistaken for myelodysplasia. Key issues, including response to G‐CSF and oral copper, are discussed. This case illustrates a significant deleterious effect of excessive zinc consumption.
A case of a superficial circumflex iliac perforator‐intercostal artery perforator (SCIP‐ICAP) compound flap for necrotizing soft tissue infection
Authors: Furuse Kiichi , Kato Motoi , Morishita Yuya , Kumagai Tomoyo , Nakatsukasa Shuichi , Kuwata Tomoyuki
Published: September 2020

Even in NSTI patients with many comorbidities, it is possible to save both the life and the limb by thorough debridement and suitable reconstruction. SCIP‐ICAP compound flap can be versatile for a massive defect of an upper extremity. A Case of a Supercharged Compound Flap for Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection
Liver transplantation after DRESS syndrome: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Calil Igor Lepski , Tustumi Francisco , Pinheiro Rafael Soares Nunes , Tanigawa Ryan Yukimatsu , Cruz Junior Ruy Jorge , Bento de Sousa Jorge Henrique , Pecora Rafael Antônio Arruda , D'Albuquerque Luiz Augusto Carneiro
Published: September 2020

This study reports a patient with DRESS syndrome, associated with liver failure, treated with orthotopic liver transplantation.
AuxPd(300‐x) Alloy Nanoparticles for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Alkaline Media
Authors: Trindell Jamie A. , Duan Zhiyao , Henkelman Graeme , Crooks Richard M.
Published: September 2020

AuxPd(300‐x) nanoalloys were prepared using a dendrimer‐templating method and their electrocatalytic efficiencies towards the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) were analyzed in alkaline media. The composition‐dependent PdOx reduction potentials of the AuxPd(300‐x) nanoalloys were correlated to the oxygen‐binding (O‐binding) energy of the catalysts. Multiple PdOx reduction peaks were present for the Au150Pd150 and Au50Pd250 catalysts. These peaks were assigned to the alloyed and bulk‐like Pd active sites on the alloyed surface. The results described here are significant because modulation of the O‐binding energies improved the ORR activity on the nanoalloys. Specifically, a linear trend in O‐binding energies of AuxPd(300‐x) dendrimers (DENs) as a function of Pd composition resulted in a volcano‐shaped trend in ORR activity. The optimal O‐binding energy of Au50Pd250 resulted in an approximate 89 mV shift in PdOx reduction relative to Pd300 and a shift of approximately 76 mV in ORR peak potential.
Design, Synthesis, and Electrochromic Behaviors of Donor‐Acceptor‐Donor type Triphenylamine‐iso‐Naphthalenediimide Derivatives
Authors: Nad Subhra , Malik Sudip
Published: September 2020

To investigate the influence of number of electropolymerizable group of the donor side on electrochromic behaviors, three donor‐acceptor‐donor type monomers containing isonaphthalene diimide as acceptor core and electro‐polymerizable triphenyl amine (TPA) as the donor moiety have been designed and successfully synthesized via imidization of isonaphthalene anhydride with corresponding TPA derivatives. DFT calculations have predicted that electron density of HOMO is centralized on peripheral TPA unit and the same of LUMO is localized on central moiety. Polymer films from three monomers are electrodeposited on ITO/glass electrodes and have been characterized by cyclic voltammetry. Three polymers show multi electrochromic properties in a reversible manner with the color change from colorless to brown to blue at low working potential. Spectro‐electrochemistry studies of these films have revealed the high optical contrast (51.4 %, 69.8 %, 84.5 % respectively) of these polymers with the very fast bleaching (less than 1 s) and coloration (less than 2 s) time with very high coloration efficiencies. The electro switching stability has been performed up to 500 cycles and activity loses only 10 % after 3000 s. To demonstrate the potentials of these derivatives, solid‐state devices having these derivatives provide electrochromism in a very nice way without taking any protective precaution from air/moisture and its spectro‐electrochemistry behaviors have been also explored.
Merging Natural Products: Muraymycin–Sansanmycin Hybrid Structures as Novel Scaffolds for Potential Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Niro Giuliana , Weck Stefanie C. , Ducho Christian
Published: September 2020

To overcome bacterial resistances, the need for novel antimicrobial agents is urgent. The class of so‐called nucleoside antibiotics furnishes promising candidates for the development of new antibiotics, as these compounds block a clinically unexploited bacterial target: the integral membrane protein MraY, a key enzyme in cell wall (peptidoglycan) biosynthesis. Nucleoside antibiotics exhibit remarkable structural diversity besides their uridine‐derived core motifs. Some sub‐classes also show specific selectivities towards different Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, which are poorly understood so far. Herein, the synthesis of a novel hybrid structure is reported, derived from the 5′‐defunctionalized uridine core moiety of muraymycins and the peptide chain of sansanmycin B, as a new scaffold for the development of antimicrobial agents. The reported muraymycin–sansanmycin hybrid scaffold showed nanomolar activity against the bacterial target enzyme MraY, but displayed no significant antibacterial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa.
Exciton Transport in Molecular Semiconductor Crystals for Spin‐Optoelectronics Paradigm
Authors: Zhu Weigang , Sun Yajing , Liu Jie , Bai Shuming , Zhang Zhicheng , Shi Qiang , Hu Wenping , Fu Hongbing
Published: September 2020

Organic semiconductors with long‐range exciton diffusion length are highly desirable for optoelectronics but currently remain rare. Here, the estimated diffusion length of singlet excitons (LD) in 2,6‐diphenyl anthracene (DPA) crystals grown by solvent evaporation was shown to be up to approximately 124 nm. These crystals showed a previously unseen parallelogram morphology with layer‐by‐layer edge‐on molecular stacking, isotropic optical waveguiding, radiation rate and non‐radiation rate constants of 0.15 and 0.26 ns−1 respectively, as well as good field‐effect transistor hole mobility and theoretically computed strong electronic couplings as high as 109 meV. Photoresponse experiments revealed that the photoconductivity of DPA crystals is surprisingly not related to the radiative pathway but associated with rapid exciton diffusion to the crystal surface for charge separation and carrier bimolecular recombination. Taken together, DPA was shown to be a promising semiconducting material for a new organic optoelectronics paradigm.
Current Understanding toward Isonitrile Group Biosynthesis and Mechanism
Authors: Chen Tzu‐Yu , Chen Jinfeng , Tang Yijie , Zhou Jiahai , Guo Yisong , Chang Wei‐chen
Published: September 2020

Isonitrile group has been identified in many natural products. Due to the broad reactivity of N≡C triple bond, these natural products have valuable pharmaceutical potentials. This review summarizes the current biosynthetic pathways and the corresponding enzymes that are responsible for isonitrile‐containing natural product generation. Based on the strategies utilized, two fundamentally distinctive approaches are discussed. In addition, recent progress in elucidating isonitrile group formation mechanisms is also presented.
Preventing smoking relapse in patients with cancer: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Simmons Vani N. , Sutton Steven K. , Meltzer Lauren R. , Martinez Ursula , Palmer Amanda M. , Meade Cathy D. , Jacobsen Paul B. , McCaffrey Judith C. , Haura Eric B. , Brandon Thomas H.
Published: September 2020

Background

Abstaining from smoking after a cancer diagnosis is critical to mitigating the risk of multiple adverse health outcomes. Although many patients with cancer attempt to quit smoking, the majority relapse. The current randomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of adapting an evidence‐based smoking relapse prevention (SRP) intervention for patients with cancer.

Methods

The trial enrolled 412 patients newly diagnosed with cancer who had recently quit smoking. Participants were randomized to usual care (UC) or SRP. Participants in the UC group received the institution's standard of care for treating tobacco use. Participants in the SRP group in addition received a targeted educational DVD plus a validated self‐help intervention for preventing smoking relapse. The primary outcome was smoking abstinence at 2 months, 6 months, and 12 months.

Results

Abstinence rates for participants in the SRP and UC groups were 75% versus 71% at 2 months and 69% versus 64% at 6 months (Ps > .20). At 12 months, abstinence rates among survivors were 68% for those in the SRP group and 63% for those in the UC group (P = .38). Post hoc analyses revealed that across 2 months and 6 months, patients who were married/partnered were more likely to be abstinent after SRP than UC (P = .03).

Conclusions

A smoking relapse prevention intervention did not reduce relapse rates overall, but did appear to have benefited those participants who had the social support of a partner. Future work is needed to extend this effect to the larger population of patients.
Recurrent genetic abnormalities detected by FISH in adult B ALL and association with hematological parameters
Authors: Tarigopula Anil , Chandrashekar Vani , Perumal Govindasami
Published: September 2020

Background

Recurrent genetic abnormalities influence prognosis in B lymphoblastic leukemia. BCR‐ABL rearrangement is associated with higher leukocyte counts and older age at presentation. Among adults, BCR ‐ABL ‐ is the commonest recurrent abnormality whereas, IgH rearrangements are rare.

Aim

Aim of this study was to identify common recurrent genetic abnormalities in adult B ALL and study their association with hematological findings.

Methods

Bone marrow and peripheral blood from patients with B acute lymphoblastic leukemia were analyzed for complete blood counts, bone marrow morphology and cytogenetic abnormalities. The study group was divided into smaller groups based on cytogenetic abnormalities. Hematological parameters and presence of recurrent genetic abnormalities was compared across age groups and gender by non parametric tests.

Results

BCR‐ABL positive group had a higher leukocyte count than BCR‐ABL negative group. Among groups 1 to 5, group 1 with gains of chromosomes was associated with leucopenia and higher age at presentation. BCR‐ABL is commonest recurrent abnormality followed by IgH rearrangements.

Conclusion

Patients with gains of chromosomes alone have low total leukocyte counts at presentation.
Correlating the natural color of tropical fruit juice with its pH
Authors: Muhammad Zahir Siti A. D. , Yahaya Ommi K. M. , Omar Ahmad F.
Published: September 2020

Color analysis is a critical approach used to analyze the quality properties of fruits, particularly in tracing the ripening stage through the peel color of the fruits. In this study, the color features of natural and untreated tropical fruit juice images (ie, B10 Averrhoa carambola L. and Sala mango) were correlated with the pH of the juice samples. The CIELAB color characteristics of the fruits showed that the mango juice had darker features than the carambola juice. The cause may be due to the higher soluble solid content and denser yellow and red pigments in the mango juice. For carambola juice, multiple linear regression (MLR) performed on red‐blue (RB) components generated the best prediction of pH with the highest coefficient of determination and lowest root mean square of error. For mango juice, MLR performed on normalized red‐green‐blue (RGB) components generated the best prediction of pH.
Control of stepping downstairs for humanoid robot based on dynamic multi‐objective optimization
Authors: Ke Wende , Bai Yan , Li Huazhong , Chen Ke , Yuan Quande
Published: September 2020

The dynamic multi‐objective optimization has important applications in many fields, especially for the multi‐issues about trading‐off problems. Herein the dynamic multi‐objective optimization problem is applied in the stepping downstairs motions of humanoid robot in which three sub‐optimization problems are proposed. First, the motion analysis of the robot's stepping downstairs motion is processed and the dynamic multi‐objective optimization algorithm is introduced as well. The optimization algorithm is changed by the mutation mode of the traditional genetic algorithm. Second, the motion analysis of the robot's stepping downstairs motion is carried out. Finally, the walking speed function, walking stability function, and electrode cost function are obtained. The effects were validated through simulating experiments.
Operando Isotopic Exchange in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells: Oxygen‐Transport Dependency on Applied Potential
Authors: Nau Alexandre , Comminges Clément , Bion Nicolas
Published: September 2020

The oxygen isotopic exchange technique is a powerful tool to investigate the oxygen transport kinetics in an oxide solid. In a solid oxide fuel cell, isotopic surface exchange and diffusion coefficients are classically determined by using the Isotopic Exchange Depth Profiling method followed by ex situ SIMS characterizations. Despite its relevance, the utilization of in situ or operando techniques to measure the isotopic exchange under an electrical bias remains marginal. We developed here a set‐up which enables operando monitoring of oxygen exchange in SOFC type cells under polarization. The system has been used for studying the oxygen mobility dependency upon polarization on a symmetrical Pt/YSZ/Pt cell (YSZ: yttria‐stabilized zirconia). Homomolecular and heterolytic exchange reactions were undertaken to investigate the oxygen activation step and discriminate the limiting step among the sequence of elementary steps which constitute the oxygen transport process in the SOFC system. Oxygen ions incorporation into the dense ionic conductor was identified to be the rate determining step, and its first order rate constant dependency on applied potential was established.
The Bouguer‐Beer‐Lambert Law: Shining Light on the Obscure
Authors: Mayerhöfer Thomas G. , Pahlow Susanne , Popp Jürgen
Published: September 2020

The front cover artwork is provided by the group of Jürgen Popp at the Friedrich Schiller University Jena and the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology. The image allegorizes the complex correlations in which the Bouguer‐Beer‐Lambert law is interleaved with Maxwell's equations and dispersion theory. Read the full text of the Review at 10.1002/cphc.202000464.
Elucidating the Impact of Immunogenicity Assessment Postapproval: A Targeted Analysis of Immunogenicity Postmarketing Requirements and Commitments
Authors: Guinn Daphne , Madabushi Rajanikanth , Wang Yow‐Ming , Zineh Issam , Maxfield Kimberly
Published: September 2020

Insufficient availability of data to evaluate immunogenicity incidence or clinical impact during regulatory review could require further evaluation postapproval. Through a keyword search of all postmarketing requirements and commitments (PMRs/PMCs) associated with products with their original US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals between 2009 and 2018, we identified products that had PMRs/PMCs established to address concerns or uncertainty related to immunogenicity. Of the 113 relevant products, 50% had an immunogenicity‐related PMR/PMC; of these, 68% were related to developing immunogenicity assays and 48% requested an assessment of clinical impact. Fifty‐five percent of the products with a fulfilled PMR/PMC had a change in the immunogenicity information in their labeling immediately following fulfillment. This work highlights that there are often unknowns associated with immunogenicity incidence and/or impact at the time of approval. Earlier regulatory discussions on immunogenicity assessments in premarket development could improve the understanding and communication of the risk/benefit profile and reduce the need for some immunogenicity PMRs/PMCs.
Clopidogrel Dosing: Current Successes and Emerging Factors for Further Consideration
Authors: Chetty Manoranjenni , Ravenstijn Paulien , Manchandani Pooja
Published: September 2020

This review aimed to evaluate the clinical success of clopidogrel dosing based on CYP2C19 genotype and to identify the relevant additional factors that may be useful for consideration by the clinician when dosing individuals with clopidogrel. The results indicated that genotype‐guided dosing in individuals with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention is frequently practiced, although the advantages remain controversial. Demographic factors, such as age, ethnicity, and some comorbidities, such as diabetes mellitus, can potentially contribute to further refinement of clopidogrel dosage but additional clinical studies to guide these practices are required. Drugs that are CYP2C19 or CYP3A4 inhibitors may reduce the effectiveness of clopidogrel and should be carefully considered during co‐administration. In particular, as stated in the clopidogrel label, concomitant use with strong or moderate CYP2C19 inhibitors, such as omeprazole, should be avoided. Increased exposure and response to clopidogrel has been observed in smokers. Noteworthy, a very recent study has shown that smoking cessation in clopidogrel patients may result in reduced response and carries the risk of high on‐clopidogrel platelet reactivity. Recent studies have shown clinically significant increases in exposure to CYP2C8 substrates (repaglinide, dasabuvir, and desloratadine) and a CYP2B6 substrate (s‐sibutramine) following co‐administration with clopidogrel, indicating that therapeutic strategies with clopidogrel should avoid these drugs.
Proteomics‐Informed Prediction of Rosuvastatin Plasma Profiles in Patients With a Wide Range of Body Weight
Authors: Wegler Christine , Prieto Garcia Luna , Klinting Signe , Robertsen Ida , Wiśniewski Jacek R. , Hjelmesæth Jøran , Åsberg Anders , Jansson‐Löfmark Rasmus , Andersson Tommy B. , Artursson Per
Published: September 2020

Rosuvastatin is a frequently used probe to study transporter‐mediated hepatic uptake. Pharmacokinetic models have therefore been developed to predict transporter impact on rosuvastatin disposition in vivo. However, the interindividual differences in transporter concentrations were not considered in these models, and the predicted transporter impact was compared with historical in vivo data. In this study, we investigated the influence of interindividual transporter concentrations on the hepatic uptake clearance of rosuvastatin in 54 patients covering a wide range of body weight. The 54 patients were given an oral dose of rosuvastatin the day before undergoing gastric bypass or cholecystectomy, and pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters were established from each patient’s individual time‐concentration profiles. Liver biopsies were sampled from each patient and their individual hepatic transporter concentrations were quantified. We combined the transporter concentrations with in vitro uptake kinetics determined in HEK293‐transfected cells, and developed a semimechanistic model with a bottom‐up approach to predict the plasma concentration profiles of the single dose of rosuvastatin in each patient. The predicted PK parameters were evaluated against the measured in vivo plasma PKs from the same 54 patients. The developed model predicted the rosuvastatin PKs within two‐fold error for rosuvastatin area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC; 78% of the patients; average fold error (AFE): 0.96), peak plasma concentration (Cmax; 76%; AFE: 1.05), and terminal half‐life (t1/2; 98%; AFE: 0.89), and captured differences in the rosuvastatin PKs in patients with the OATP1B1 521T<C polymorphism. This demonstrates that hepatic uptake clearance determined in transfected cell lines, together with proteomics scaling, provides a useful tool for prediction models, without the need for empirical scaling factors.
Screening for bacterial fruit blotch resistance in watermelon fruit
Authors: Daley James , Wehner Todd C.
Published: September 2020

Bacterial fruit blotch (BFB) caused by Acidovorax citrulli is a serious threat to the watermelon industry. Currently, there are no commercial watermelon cultivars with resistance to BFB. In this 3‐yr study, we conducted a screening of 1,452 Citrullus spp. cultigens (PIs and cultivars) for resistance to BFB at the immature fruit stage. However, due to high levels of missing data, many cultigens require additional testing to confirm resistance. Fruit BFB symptoms presented initially as raised bumps, then progressed to blotching, cracking, and internal necrosis. Resistant cultigens rarely proceeded beyond raised bumps at the infection site. Fruit resistance is significantly affected by environmental conditions and has low heritability. Among a subset of cultigens selected for high resistance and susceptibility during the first 2 yr of screening and retested using increased replications, PI 494819 [C. lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai., Zambia], PI 596659 (C. amarus Schrad., South Africa), PI 596670 (C. amarus, South Africa), PI 490384 [C. mucosospermus (Fursa) Fursa, Mali], and PI 596656 (C. amarus, South Africa) had average disease ratings of <1; significantly more resistance than the commercial check, Charleston Gray; low plant‐to‐plant variability within each PI; and infrequent incidence of advanced symptoms. These PIs are potential sources of fruit resistance for breeding programs as well as for research focused on understanding the underlying mechanisms and genetics.