bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Most elderly patients hospitalized for heart failure lack the abilities needed to perform the tasks required for self‐care: impact on outcomes
Authors: Vidán María T. , Martín Sánchez Francisco‐Javier , Sánchez Elísabet , Ortiz Francisco‐Javier , Serra‐Rexach José A. , Martínez‐Sellés Manuel , Bueno Héctor
Published: August 2019

Aim

To evaluate the abilities to perform essential tasks for heart failure (HF) self‐management in elderly patients, and its influence on post‐discharge prognosis.

Methods and results

Overall, 415 patients ≥70 years old hospitalized for HF were included and followed during 1 year. The ability to perform six specific tasks (use of a scale, weight registration, diuretic identification, knowledge of salted foods, oedema identification, and treatment adjustment) was tested and distributed on terciles (T) of performance. Correlation with the self‐administered questionnaire European HF Self‐care Behaviour Scale (EHFScBS) was evaluated. The independent influence of self‐care on 1‐year mortality and readmission risks was calculated by Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. Mean age was 80.1 years. On average, patients could perform 2.9 ± 1.6 of self‐care tasks, and only 5.3% could perform the six tasks correctly. Patients with previous HF self‐care education had slight better performance (3.2 ± 1.6 vs 2.8 ± 1.6, P < 0.02). A weak correlation was found between EHFScBS and number of tasks correctly performed (r = −0.135; P = 0.006). One‐year mortality in T1, T2, and T3 patients was 33.0%, 20.7%, and 14.1%, respectively (P = 0.002). Multivariable analysis showed T2 and T3 groups having a lower adjusted mortality risk compared with T1 [hazard ratio (HR) 0.58; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.32–1.03; and HR 0.40; 95% CI 0.21–0.77, respectively], without differences in readmissions.

Conclusion

Most elderly patients admitted for HF are unable to perform several essential tasks needed for HF self‐care. Self‐perception of care was poorly correlated with real ability, and poor self‐care ability was associated with higher 1‐year mortality risk.
Mitochondrial functionality and metabolism in T cells from progressive multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: De Biasi Sara , Simone Anna Maria , Bianchini Elena , Lo Tartaro Domenico , Pecorini Simone , Nasi Milena , Patergnani Simone , Carnevale Gianluca , Gibellini Lara , Ferraro Diana , Vitetta Francesca , Pinton Paolo , Sola Patrizia , Cossarizza Andrea , Pinti Marcello
Published: August 2019

Patients with primary progressive (PP) and secondary progressive (SP) forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) exhibit a sustained increase in the number of Th1, T cytotoxic type‐1 and Th17 cells in peripheral blood, suggesting that the progressive phase is characterized by a permanent peripheral immune activation. As T cell functionality and activation are strictly connected to their metabolic profile, we investigated the mitochondrial functionality and metabolic changes of T cell subpopulations in a cohort of progressive MS patients. T cells from progressive patients were characterized by low proliferation and increase of terminally differentiated/exhausted cells. T cells from PP patients showed lower Oxygen Consumption Rate and Extracellular Acidification Rate, lower mitochondrial mass, membrane potential and respiration than those of SP patients, a downregulation of transcription factors supporting respiration and higher tendency to shift towards glycolysis upon stimulation. Furthermore, PP effector memory T cells were characterized by higher Glucose transporter ‐1 levels and a higher expression of glycolytic‐supporting genes if compared to SP patients. Overall, our data suggest that profound differences exist in the phenotypic and metabolic features of T cells from PP and SP patients, even though the two clinical phenotypes are considered part of the same disease spectrum.
Recent advances and challenges in the recovery and purification of cellular exosomes
Authors: Ayala‐Mar Sergio , Donoso‐Quezada Javier , Gallo‐Villanueva Roberto C. , Perez‐Gonzalez Victor H. , González‐Valdez José
Published: August 2019

Exosomes are nanovesicles secreted by most cellular types that carry important biochemical compounds throughout the body with different purposes, playing a preponderant role in cellular communication. Because of their structure, physicochemical properties and stability, recent studies are focusing in their use as nanocarriers for different therapeutic compounds for the treatment of different diseases ranging from cancer to Parkinson's disease. However, current bioseparation protocols and methodologies are selected based on the final exosome application or intended use and present both advantages and disadvantages when compared among them. In this context, this review aims to present the most important technologies available for exosome isolation while discussing their advantages and disadvantages and the possibilities of being combined with other strategies. This is critical since the development of novel exosome‐based therapeutic strategies will be constrained to the effectiveness and yield of the selected downstream purification methodologies for which a thorough understanding of the available technological resources is needed.
Preparation of porous aromatic framework modified graphene oxide for pipette‐tip solid‐phase extraction of theophylline in tea
Authors: Deng Qilin , Sun Liping , Zhu Tao
Published: August 2019

A new material called as porous aromatic frameworks modified graphene oxide (PAFs‐GO) was synthesized, and it was used as an adsorbent in pipette‐tip SPE for the effective purification and enrichment of theophylline in tea sample by HPLC. The properties of PAFs‐GO were characterized by field emission SEM, FTIR, thermogravimetry analysis and Brunauer Emmett Teller N2 adsorption‐desorption analysis. The results of static adsorption and dynamic adsorption test showed PAFs‐GO had higher adsorption ability (93.25 mg/g) than graphene oxide. The LOD and LOQ of the method were 0.0141 and 0.0471 µg/mL, respectively. The acceptable method reproducibility was found as intra‐ and inter‐day precisions, yielding the RSDs <4.62%. By introducing PAFs as support skeleton, the specific surface area of GO was effectively increased, and the penetrability was improved. Studies showed that the proposed method had been successfully applied for purification and enrichment of theophylline in complex tea matrix.
Heat propagation in thermally conductive polymers of PA6 and hexagonal boron nitride
Authors: Fischer Andreas J. , Zhong Yuhua , Zhang Luchong , Wu Wei , Drummer Dietmar
Published: August 2019

Thermally conductive polymers offer new possibilities for the heat dissipation in electric and electronic components, for example, by a three‐dimensional shaping of the heat sinks. To face safety regulations, improved fire performance of those components is required. In contrast to unfilled polymers, those materials exhibit an entirely different thermal behavior. To investigate the flammability, a phosphorus flame retardant was incorporated into thermally conductive composites of polyamide 6 and hexagonal boron nitride. The flame retardant decreased the thermal conductivity only slightly. However, the burning behavior changed significantly, due to a different heat propagation, which was investigated using a thermographic camera. An optimum content of hexagonal boron nitride for a sufficient thermal conductivity and fire performance was found between 20 and 30 vol%. The improvement of the fire performance was due to a faster heat release out of the pyrolysis zone and an earlier decomposition of the flame retardant. For higher contents of hexagonal boron nitride, the heat was spread faster within the part, promoting an earlier ignition and increasing the decomposition rate of the flame retardant.
Meat quality, fatty acids, volatile compounds, and antioxidant properties of lambs fed pasture versus mixed diet
Authors: Luo Yulong , Wang Bohui , Liu Chang , Su Rina , Hou Yanru , Yao Duo , Zhao Lihua , Su Lin , Jin Ye
Published: August 2019

The aim of the present work was to investigate the effects of feeding regimens (pasture vs. mixed diet) on meat quality, fatty acids, volatile compounds, and antioxidant properties in lamb meat. In total, 24 lambs were allotted into two feeding regimens at 10.23 kg live weight. Lambs were fed on pasture grass (PG group, n = 12) or mixed diet (M group, n = 12). Longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle samples from the M group had a higher intramuscular fat (IMF) (p < 0.05), pH45minvalue (p < 0.01), and ash (p < 0.05) than the PG group. In contrast, the shear force (p < 0.05), L*(p < 0.05), and b* (p < 0.001) in M group were lower than in PG group. Analyses indicated that PG group contained higher linolenic acid (C18:3n3) and docosatrienoic acid (C22:3n6) (p < 0.05) than the M group. Major volatile compounds in the muscles included hexanal, heptanal, nonanal, octanal, 1‐pentanol, 1‐hexanol, 1‐octen‐3‐ol, and 2,3‐octanedione. The levels of hexanal, nonanal, and 2,3‐octanedione were significantly lower in PG lamb muscle (p < 0.01). In contrast, 1‐pentanol and 1‐hexanol levels were higher in M lamb muscle (p < 0.01). Muscle from PG lamb exhibited higher catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity (p < 0.05). PG muscle also contained a higher radical‐scavenging ability (RSA; p < 0.001) and cupric‐reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC; p < 0.05). Overall, the improved antioxidant status in PG muscle inhibited lipid peroxidation (aldehydes and ketones), thereby improving the meat quality.
Neural activity during working memory encoding, maintenance, and retrieval: A network‐based model and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kim Hongkeun
Published: August 2019

It remains unclear whether and to what extent working memory (WM) temporal subprocesses (i.e., encoding, maintenance, and retrieval) involve shared or distinct intrinsic networks. To address this issue, I constructed a model of intrinsic network contributions to different WM phases and then evaluated the validity of the model by performing a quantitative meta‐analysis of relevant functional neuroimaging data. The model suggests that the transition from the encoding to maintenance and to retrieval stages involves progressively decreasing involvement of the dorsal attention network (DAN), but progressively increasing involvement of the frontoparietal control network (FPCN). Separate meta‐analysis of each phase effect and direct comparisons between them yielded results that were largely consistent with the model. This evidence included between‐phase double dissociations that were consistent with the model, such as encoding > maintenance contrast showing some DAN, but no FPCN, regions, and maintenance > encoding contrast showing the reverse, that is, some FPCN, but no DAN, regions. Two closely juxtaposed regions that are members of the DAN and FPCN, such as inferior frontal junction versus caudal prefrontal cortex and superior versus inferior intraparietal sulcus, showed a high degree of functional differentiation. Although all regions identified in the present study were already identified in previous WM studies, this study uniquely enhances our understating of their roles by clarifying their network membership and specific associations with different WM phases.
Informal workplace learning: Development and validation of a measure
Authors: Decius Julian , Schaper Niclas , Seifert Andreas
Published: August 2019

Informal workplace learning (IWL) is an important part of work‐related continuing education, especially in the case of blue‐collar workers. The current article presents a new measure of IWL, which we developed based on the already existing Dynamic Model of Informal Learning by Tannenbaum et al. (2010). We extended the model to eight components by theoretical considerations, introducing a second‐order structure. Each component is represented on the IWL scale with three items, the subscales have sound internal consistencies (α range between .76 and .92). The article also presents a short version of the scale comprising eight items (α = .79). Study 1 describes the process of item selection, while Study 2 deals with different theoretically conceivable models comparing their model fits. The predicted model with eight factors in a second‐order structure achieves the best model fit. In addition, convergent, discriminant, and criterion validity are demonstrated. Medium‐sized relationships of IWL components to conscientiousness and learning outcomes confirm the nomological network we developed previously in our study. The discussion provides limitations and possible scientific and practical applications of the IWL scale, for example, the transfer of the measure to other contexts and target groups.
Genome‐wide investigation of intragenic DNA methylation identifies ZMIZ1 gene as a prognostic marker in glioblastoma and multiple cancer types
Authors: Mathios Dimitrios , Hwang Taeyoung , Xia Yuanxuan , Phallen Jillian , Rui Yuan , See Alfred P. , Maxwell Russell , Belcaid Zineb , Casaos Joshua , Burger Peter C. , McDonald Kerrie L. , Gallia Gary L. , Cope Leslie , Kai Mihoko , Brem Henry , Pardoll Drew M. , Ha Patrick , Green Jordan J. , Velculescu Victor E. , Bettegowda Chetan , Park Chul‐Kee , Lim Michael
Published: August 2019

DNA methylation has long been recognized as a tumor‐promoting factor when aberrantly regulated in the promoter region of genes. However, the effect of intragenic DNA methylation remains poorly understood on the clinical aspects of cancer. Here, we first evaluated the significance of intragenic DNA methylation for survival outcomes of cancer patients in a genome‐wide manner. Glioblastoma patients with hypermethylated intragenic regions exhibited better survival than hypomethylated patients. Enrichment analyses of intragenic DNA methylation profiles with epigenetic signatures prioritized the intragenic DNA methylation of ZMIZ1 as a possible glioblastoma prognostic marker that is independent of MGMT methylation in IDH1 wild‐type patients. This intragenic region harbored molecular signatures of alternative transcription across many cell types. Furthermore, we found that the intragenic region of ZMIZ1 can serve as a molecular marker in multiple cancers including astrocytomas, bladder cancer and renal cell carcinoma according to DNA methylation status. Finally, in vitro and in vivo experiments uncovered the role of ZMIZ1 as a driver of tumor cell migration. Altogether, our results identify ZMIZ1 as a prognostic marker in cancer and highlight the clinical significance of intragenic methylation in cancer.
Secondary immune thrombocytopenic purpura with renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Nakazawa Shigeaki , Kawamura Masataka , Nakano Kosuke , Ueda Norichika , Kishikawa Hidefumi , Kashiwagi Hirokazu , Uemura Motohide , Imamura Ryoichi , Nishimura Kenji , Nonomura Norio
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Several types of cancers are reported to induce secondary immune thrombocytopenia resembling immune thrombocytopenic purpura‐like syndrome. However, renal cell carcinoma‐induced immune thrombocytopenic purpura is an extremely rare phenomenon.

Case presentation

A 73‐year‐old male with right renal tumor and multiple enlarged lymph nodes presented severe thrombocytopenia, without bone or hepatic metastasis. Although platelet transfusion and high‐dose immunoglobulin treatment were refractory, surgical resection of the tumor and lymph nodes promptly improved thrombocytopenia. After recurrence, he presented thrombocytopenia again. Tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment was ceased due to uncontrollable hemorrhagic gastric ulcer. The patient eventually died of cancer 4 months after surgery. Flow cytometry analysis revealed the presence of integrin glycoprotein IIb/IIIa, which is a fibronectin/fibrinogen receptor on platelets and as an antigen in immune thrombocytopenic purpura.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of renal cell carcinoma‐induced immune thrombocytopenic purpura that demonstrates the presence of platelet‐autoantibody glycoprotein IIb/IIIa.
The two sides of Islamophobia and the perception of threat from Islamic terrorists
Authors: Tartaglia Stefano , Rollero Chiara , Bergagna Elisa
Published: August 2019

There is a heightened interest concerning the understanding of prejudice toward Muslims in Europe, steadily increasing since 2001. This study aimed at investigating whether the phenomenon of Islamophobia could have two different manifestations (i.e., Islamoprejudice and Secular Critique of Islam). In particular, we assessed whether two social attitudes, Right‐Wing Authoritarianism (RWA, i.e., authoritarian aggression, and conservatism) and Social Dominance Orientation (SDO), could predict differently the two dimensions. Moreover, we wanted to investigate the different influence of the two dimensions in relation to the perceived threat from terrorism. A sample of 366 Italian adults participated in the study completing a self‐report questionnaire. Data were analyzed by means of a structural equation model. Results showed that RWA and SDO were differently related to Islamoprejudice and Secular Critique of Islam, suggesting that certain forms of critique of Islam should not be associated with individual prejudice, because motivated only by secular, democratic, and universalistic convictions, denoting the traces of cultural biases. However, the nonprejudicial and apparently less problematic dimension of Islamophobia, that is, Secular Critique, does not preserve people from perceiving the threat from terrorism, in the same way as Islamoprejudice. Implications are discussed.
Assessment of tumor volume and density as a measure of the response of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma to sorafenib: Application of automated measurements on computed tomography scans
Authors: Yamamichi Junta , Kawaguchi Yasunori , Otsuka Taiga , Nakashita Shunya , Mizobe Hideaki , Eguchi Yuichiro , Kimura Shinya
Published: August 2019

Background and Aim

To better predict patient survival, we used automated tumor volume and density measurements to make an objective radiological assessment of the response of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to treatment with sorafenib.

Methods

Patients treated with sorafenib were identified retrospectively. Those who were diagnosed with Child‐Pugh class A liver function, Barcelona‐Clinic Liver Cancer stage C, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status grade 0/1 were enrolled (n = 22). Reviews of contrast‐enhanced computed tomography images were supported by the automated measurement of lesions using computer software. Treatment responses were assessed using volume and density criteria. Kaplan–Meier methods and multivariate Cox regression analysis were used to evaluate treatment responses and identify the most significant prognostic factors for overall survival (OS).

Results

After patients were dichotomized according to volume and density criteria, the median OS for those with an objective response (OR) (complete response + partial response) was 20.4 months and that for those with a non‐OR (stable disease + progressive disease) was 9.3 months (P = 0.009). The best multivariate regression model for survival identified volume and density criteria (OR or non‐OR) as a significant variable, along with baseline alpha‐fetoprotein levels (log‐rank test, P = 0.01). No other conventional criteria were identified as significant.

Conclusions

Tumor volume and density assessment using automated lesion measurements may be an objective method of evaluating responses of advanced HCC to treatment with sorafenib.
Molecular toxicity of nanoplastics involving in oxidative stress and desoxyribonucleic acid damage
Authors: Zheng Tongtong , Yuan Dong , Liu Chunguang
Published: August 2019

Microplastic pollution attracted extensive attention because of its global presence and adverse effects on ecosystem. However, it is insufficient to clear the effects of nanoplastics on organisms at the molecular level. Herein, a nanopolystyrene (50 nm) was used to examine molecular responses of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and desoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) using spectroscopy (UV‐vis, circular dichroism spectra, and fluorescence measurements) and single cell gel electrophoresis methods. Results showed that nanopolystyrene induced oxidative stress, involving in the increase of SOD activity and malondialdehide (MDA) content, and DNA damage because of the significant increase of olive tail moment, head optical density, and tail DNA percentage in the groups at exposure concentrations above 5 × 10−6 mol/L. The second structural and microenvironment of aromatic amino acids of SOD were changed with nanopolystyrene exposure. The fluorescence of SOD was quenched by nanopolystyrene at exposure concentration above 1 × 10−5 mol/L, and the quenching mode could be ascribed to the static type. The results and the combined methods are favorable to explore the molecular toxicity of other nanoplastics and the interaction mechanism.
Screening high‐risk populations for esophageal and gastric cancer
Authors: Li Selena , Chung Daniel C. , Mullen John T.
Published: August 2019

Cancers of the esophagus and stomach remain important causes of mortality worldwide, in large part because they are most often diagnosed at advanced stages. Thus, it is imperative that we identify and treat these cancers in earlier stages. Due to significant heterogeneity in incidence and risk factors for these cancers, it has been challenging to develop standardized screening recommendations. This review summarizes the current recommendations for screening populations at high risk of developing esophagogastric cancers.
Resource availability affects temporal variation of phytoplankton size structure in the Kuroshio east of Taiwan
Authors: Lin Fan‐Sian , Ho Pei‐Chi , Sastri Akash R. , Chen Chung‐Chi , Gong Gwo‐Ching , Jan Sen , Hsieh Chih‐hao
Published: August 2019

The on‐going discussion concerning how environmental factors determine phytoplankton size structure has centered around two hypotheses: (H1) The resource‐size relationship predicts that normalized biovolume size spectrum (NBSS) slopes for phytoplankton are progressively shallower with increasing resource availability and (H2) The temperature‐size relationship predicts that phytoplankton NBSS slopes steepen with increasing water temperature. To test these hypotheses, we examined 72 phytoplankton assemblage collections in the Kuroshio east of Taiwan. Total phytoplankton biomass was used as a proxy for resource availability instead of nutrients because nutrients are depleted and do not represent resource availability for oligotrophic seas. We found no significant relationship between NBSS slopes with temperature, providing little support for the temperature‐size rule. In contrast, a positive relationship between NBSS slopes and total biomass for most of the year lends general support to the resource‐size relationship, except during the winter and early spring. To explain this exception, we hypothesize that resource pulses occurring during the cold seasons are used more efficiently by small cells and promote faster growth of small relative to large phytoplankton because these pulses take place after a long period of resource depletion in oligotrophic seas; thus, the NBSS slopes become much steeper than would be expected from a positive resource‐size relationship. This deviation can be considered as nonsteady state in terms of phytoplankton size structure relative to resources. Nevertheless, we cannot rule out the possibility that grazing effects also play an important role in controlling phytoplankton size structure.
The mechanism by which social media influencers persuade consumers: The role of consumers’ desire to mimic
Authors: Ki Chung‐Wha ‘Chloe’ , Kim Youn‐Kyung
Published: August 2019

We explore the mechanism through which social media influencers (SMIs) persuade consumers to adopt brands. Guided by the influence framework, we propose and test empirically SMIs’ influence mechanism, which occurs in four principal stages: (a) a SMI's influence attempts (showcasing H1: attractive; H2: prestigious; H3 and H4: expert; H5: informative; and H6: interactive Instagram contents); (b) target consumers’ attitudinal response to the influence exercised (evaluating the SMI as a H7: taste and H8: opinion leader); which, in turn, affects (c) the targets’ desire to comply (the desire to mimic); and ultimately (d) their favorable behavioral outcomes (H9: social media word‐of‐mouth and H10: purchase intentions). On the basis of the survey data from 395 respondents, we used structural equation modeling to test our hypotheses and proposed model. We verified the robustness of our results using an ordered probit regression model and analyzed the mediating role of consumers’ desire to mimic SMIs in the influence mechanism. Our results confirm that the five aspects of influencing posts affect consumers’ attitudes positively and significantly, which in turn leads to positive behavioral outcomes through their desire to mimic SMIs. We discuss the results’ important implications for both scholars and practitioners.
Non‐invasive imaging of oxygen concentration in a complex in vitro biofilm infection model using 19F MRI: Persistence of an oxygen sink despite prolonged antibiotic therapy
Authors: Simkins Jeffrey W. , Stewart Philip S. , Codd Sarah L. , Seymour Joseph D.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Oxygen availability is a critical determinant of microbial biofilm activity and antibiotic susceptibility. However, measuring oxygen gradients in these systems remains difficult, with the standard microelectrode approach being both invasive and limited to single‐point measurement. The goal of the study was to develop a 19F MRI approach for 2D oxygen mapping in biofilm systems and to visualize oxygen consumption behavior in real time during antibiotic therapy.

Methods

Oxygen‐sensing beads were created by encapsulating an emulsion of oxygen‐sensing fluorocarbon into alginate gel. Escherichia coli biofilms were grown in and on the alginate matrix, which was contained inside a packed bed column subjected to nutrient flow, mimicking the complex porous structure of human wound tissue, and subjected to antibiotic challenge.

Results

The linear relationship between 19F spin‐lattice relaxation rate R1 and local oxygen concentration permitted noninvasive spatial mapping of oxygen distribution in real time over the course of biofilm growth and subsequent antibiotic challenge. This technique was used to visualize persistence of microbial oxygen respiration during continuous gentamicin administration, providing a time series of complete spatial maps detailing the continued bacterial utilization of oxygen during prolonged chemotherapy in an in vitro biofilm model with complex spatial structure.

Conclusions

Antibiotic exposure temporarily causes oxygen consumption to enter a pseudosteady state wherein oxygen distribution becomes fixed; oxygen sink expansion resumes quickly after antibiotic clearance. This technique may provide valuable information for future investigations of biofilms by permitting the study of complex geometries (typical of in vivo biofilms) and facilitating noninvasive oxygen measurement.
Cerebral OEF quantification: A comparison study between quantitative susceptibility mapping and dual‐gas calibrated BOLD imaging
Authors: Ma Yuhan , Sun Hongfu , Cho Junghun , Mazerolle Erin L. , Wang Yi , Pike G. Bruce
Published: August 2019

Purpose

To compare regional oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) and cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen consumption (CMRO2) quantified from the microvascular quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) using a hypercapnic gas challenge with those measured by the dual‐gas calibrated BOLD imaging (DGC‐BOLD) in healthy subjects.

Methods

Ten healthy subjects were scanned using a 3T MR system. The QSM data were acquired with a multi‐echo gradient‐echo sequence at baseline and hypercapnia. Cerebral blood flow data were acquired using the pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling technique. Baseline OEF and CMRO2 were calculated using QSM and cerebral blood flow measurements. The DGC‐BOLD data were also collected under a hypercapnic and a hyperoxic condition to yield baseline OEF and CMRO2. The QSM‐OEF and CMRO2 maps were compared with DGC‐BOLD OEF and CMRO2 maps using region of interest (vascular territories) analysis and Bland‐Altman plots.

Results

Hypercapnia is a robust stimulus for mapping OEF in combination with QSM. Average OEF in 16 vascular territory regions of interest across 10 subjects was 0.40 ± 0.04 by QSM‐OEF and 0.38 ± 0.09 by DGC‐BOLD. The average CMRO2 was 176 ± 35 and 167 ± 53 μmol O2/min/100g by QSM‐OEF and DGC‐BOLD, respectively. A Bland‐Altman plot of regional OEF and CMRO2 in regions of interest revealed a statistically significant but small difference (OEF difference = 0.02, CMRO2 difference = 9 μmol O2/min/100g, p < .05) between the 2 methods for the 10 healthy subjects.

Conclusion

Hypercapnic challenge–assisted QSM‐OEF is a feasible approach to quantify regional brain OEF and CMRO2. Compared with DGC‐BOLD, hypercapnia QSM‐OEF results in smaller intersubject variability and requires only 1 gas challenge.
A comparison of the effectiveness of lateral versus posterior approach to shoulder injection in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome: A pragmatic randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ogbeivor Collins , Bandaru Suresh , Milton Carl
Published: August 2019

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of the lateral approach to subacromial injection, compared with the posterior approach, for the treatment of subacromial impingement syndrome.

Method

A pragmatic randomized controlled trial was carried out in an outpatient community musculoskeletal service. The sample comprised 80 adults, aged 18 years or over, with subacromial impingement syndrome. The intervention group received a single subacromial injection, using a 21‐gauge green needle, of 40 mg/ml triamcinolone acetonide (Kenalog) and 4 ml 1% lignocaine using a lateral approach. The control group received identical treatment, with the exception that the injection was given using a posterior approach. The outcome measures were pain measured using 0–10 numerical pain scale and shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI) scores at 8 and 12 weeks' follow‐up.

Result

A moderate but statistically and clinically significant difference in improvement in daytime pain (mean change in score) occurred in favour of the lateral group (mean = 4.0) compared with the posterior group (mean = 2.0) between weeks 0 and 8 (1.4 points [95% confidence interval 0.3, 2.6; p = 0.018]). However, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups in night‐time pain, shoulder function and SPADI scores. There was a statistically and clinically significant difference (p = 0.001) within the groups for all clinical outcomes between weeks 0 and 8, and between weeks 0 and 12.

Conclusion

There were no significant differences in the treatments; however, both forms of treatment were associated with a significant improvement in shoulder pain, function and disability.
Reflecting a crisis reaction: Narratives from patients with oesophageal cancer about the first 6 months after diagnosis and surgery
Authors: Hellstadius Ylva , Malmström Marlene , Lagergren Pernilla , Sundbom Magnus , Wikman Anna
Published: August 2019

Aim

The aim of the study was to describe patients' experiences of emotional adaption following treatment for oesophageal cancer from diagnosis to 6 months after surgery.

Design

A qualitative interview study using an inductive approach was carried out.

Methods

Participants were recruited from two university hospitals in Sweden. Ten patients who had been operated for oesophageal cancer with curative intent 6 months earlier and consented to participate in the study were included. Patients who had a disease recurrence were not eligible for inclusion. Participants were interviewed with a semi‐structured interview approach. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

One overarching theme was identified; Experiencing a crisis reaction, which comprised three key categories; (a) From emotionally numb to feeling quite alright; (b) From a focus on cure to reflections about a whole new life; and (c) From a severe treatment to suffering an emaciated, non‐compliant body, derived from 14 distinct sub‐categories.

Conclusion

This study highlights the process of emotional adaptation following oesophageal cancer surgery that patients describe when reflecting back on the first 6 months postoperatively pointing to a crisis reaction in this early postoperative period.
Functional amphiphilic block copolyethers as carriers of caffeic acid phenethyl ester
Authors: Valchanova Miroslava , Yordanov Yordan , Tzankova Virginia , Yoncheva Krassimira , Turmanova Sevdalina , Rangelov Stanislav
Published: August 2019

Amphiphilic diblock copolymers consisting of hydrophilic polyglycidol (PG) and hydrophobic poly(allylglycidyl ether) (PAGE) were prepared by sequential anionic ring‐opening polymerization of allylglycidyl ether and ethoxyethyl glycidyl ether followed by removal of the protective ethoxyethyl groups. The polymerization was initiated by partially deprotonated dodecanol and performed in solvent‐free conditions. The copolymers were composed of a hydrophobic dodecyl residue attached to a block of PAGE with a fixed degree of polymerization (dp = 44) and differing in length of the PG block (dp = 16 and 66, corresponding to PG contents of 25 and 60 mol%, respectively). The two copolymers were spontaneously soluble in water. Above a certain critical concentration, they formed well‐defined self‐assembled nanoparticles. Their characterization parameters were determined by static and dynamic light scattering. The aggregates of the more hydrophobic copolymer, C12‐PAGE‐PG25, were characterized by considerably larger dimensions and molar mass, reaching 78.6 nm and 253.0 × 106 g mol−1, respectively, than those of the more hydrophilic copolymer, C12‐PAGE‐PG60. The hydrophobic moieties were proved to create a favorable environment for solubilization of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) (the main active ingredient of propolis with cytotoxic and antioxidant activities), whereas the numerous hydroxyl groups from the PG moieties brought additional benefits related to the biocompatibility of the copolymers. Preliminary experiments with L929 fibroblast cells showed that the aggregates displayed no signs of toxicity in the applied in vitro test system, suggesting their appropriateness as a drug delivery platform. The CAPE‐loaded aggregates, however, showed dose‐dependent cytotoxic effects, indicating that CAPE retained its cytotoxic activity. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Green fabrication route of robust, biodegradable silk sericin and poly(vinyl alcohol) nanofibrous scaffolds
Authors: Kumkun Pongsathorn , Tuancharoensri Nantaprapa , Ross Gareth , Mahasaranon Sararat , Jongjitwimol Jirapas , Topham Paul D , Ross Sukunya
Published: August 2019

Silk sericin (SS) has been extensively used to fabricate scaffolds for tissue engineering. However, due to its inferior mechanical properties, it has been found to be a poor choice of material when being electrospun into nanofibrous scaffolds. Here, SS has been combined with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and electrospun to create scaffolds with enhanced physical properties. Crucially, these SS/PVA nanofibrous scaffolds were created using only distilled water as a solvent with no added crosslinker in an environmentally friendly process. Temperature has been shown to have a marked effect on the formation of the SS sol–gel transition and thus influence the final formation of fibers. Heating the spinning solutions to 70 °C delivered nanofibers with enhanced morphology, water stability and mechanical properties. This is due to the transition of SS fromβ‐sheets into random coils that enables enhanced molecular interactions between SS and PVA. The most applicable SS/PVA weight ratios for the formation of nanofibers with the desired properties were found to be 7.5/1.5 and 10.0/1.5. The fibers had diameters ranging from 60 to 500 nm, where higher PVA and SS concentrations promoted larger diameters. The crystallinity within the fibers could be controlled by manipulation of the balance between PVA and SS loadings.In vitrodegradation (in phosphate buffer solution, pH 7.4 at 37 °C) was 30–50% within 42 days and fibers were shown to be nontoxic to skin fibroblast cells. This work demonstrates a new green route for incorporating SS into nanofibrous fabrics, with potential use in biomedical applications. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Nitration of Acyl Derivatives of 2,4,6,8,10,12‐Hexaazaisowurtzitane
Authors: Kalashnikov Alexander I. , Sysolyatin Sergey V. , Surmachev Vladimir N.
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we studied the nitration of 2,4,6,8,10,12‐hexaazaisowurtzitane acyl derivatives with mixed H2SO4/HNO3 and HNO3/NH4NO3. The substitution of the nitro group for acyl residues of weaker acids took place most easily. The nitration of such amides in the mixed acid proceeded fairly good. In the case of using amides of formic and other stronger acids, the best results were achieved with HNO3/NH4NO3.
Giant Reflection Coefficient on Sc0.26Al0.74N Polycrystalline Diamond Surface Acoustic Wave Resonators
Authors: Sinusía Lozano Miguel , Chen Zhuohui , Williams Oliver A. , Iriarte Gonzalo F.
Published: August 2019

Since the commercialization of surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices, the technology is steadily increasing the device performances without compromising their power handling, size and price. Herein, one‐port SAW resonators are fabricated on scandium aluminum nitride (Sc0.26Al0.74N)/polycrystalline diamond heterostructures. SAW propagation properties are studied using three different piezoelectric thin‐film thicknesses within the heterostructure. The Rayleigh and Sezawa resonance frequencies are above 1.5 and 2.5 GHz, respectively, achieving Sezawa mode reflection coefficients below −50 dB. The polycrystalline diamond substrate is synthesized by microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD) on top of a 500 μm‐thick Si (001) substrate. The Sc0.26Al0.74N thin films are synthesized by reactive sputtering at nominally room temperature. The thin film's composition is analyzed by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS). The full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the X‐ray diffraction (XRD) ω scans below 3° indicates that the synthesized Sc0.26Al0.74N thin films are highly c‐axis oriented. The electromechanical coupling coefficient, quality factor, and dielectric loss parameters are computed by curve fitting the device electrical measurements to the simulation results of a modified Butterworth Van Dyke (mBVD) model implemented in the advance design system (ADS) tool.
Climate and rivers
Authors: McGregor Glenn R.
Published: August 2019

Over the last few decades as hydrologists have slowly raised their line of sight above the watershed boundary, it has become increasingly recognised that what happens in the atmosphere, as a major source of moisture for the terrestrial branch of the hydrological cycle, can strongly influence river dynamics at a range of spatial and temporal scales. Notwithstanding this, there is still a tendency for some in the river research community to restrict their gaze to the river channel or floodplain. However, Geoff Petts, the person to which this special issue is dedicated, understood well and widely encouraged a holistic view of river catchment processes. This included an acknowledgment of the role of climate, in its broadest sense, in shaping what happens within and without the river channel. The purpose of this paper therefore is to offer a broad overview of the role of some aspects of climate science in advancing knowledge in river research. Topics to be addressed include the role of climate in influencing river flow regimes, a consideration of the large‐scale climate mechanisms that drive hydrological variability within river basins at interannual to decadal timescales and atmospheric rivers and their link to surface hydrology. In reviewing these topics, a number of key knowledge gaps have emerged including attributing the causes of river flow regime changes to any one particular cause, the nonstationary and asymmetric forcing of river regimes by modes of climate variability and establishing links between atmospheric rivers, and terrestrial river channel processes, fluvial habitats, and ecological change.
Ventricular remodeling in ischemic heart failure stratifies responders to stem cell therapy
Authors: Yamada Satsuki , Arrell D. Kent , Rosenow Christian S. , Bartunek Jozef , Behfar Atta , Terzic Andre
Published: August 2019

Response to stem cell therapy in heart failure is heterogeneous, warranting a better understanding of outcome predictors. This study assessed left ventricular volume, a surrogate of disease severity, on cell therapy benefit. Small to large infarctions were induced in murine hearts to model moderate, advanced, and end-stage ischemic cardiomyopathy. At 1 month postinfarction, cardiomyopathic cohorts with comparable left ventricular enlargement and dysfunction were randomized 1:1 to those that either received sham treatment or epicardial delivery of cardiopoietic stem cells (CP). Progressive dilation and pump failure consistently developed in sham. In comparison, CP treatment produced significant benefit at 1 month post-therapy, albeit with an efficacy impacted by cardiomyopathic stage. Advanced ischemic cardiomyopathy was the most responsive to CP-mediated salvage, exhibiting both structural and functional restitution, with proteome deconvolution substantiating that cell therapy reversed infarction-induced remodeling of functional pathways. Moderate cardiomyopathy was less responsive to CP therapy, improving contractility but without reversing preexistent heart enlargement. In end-stage disease, CP therapy showed the least benefit. This proof-of-concept study thus demonstrates an optimal window, or “Goldilocks principle,” of left ventricular enlargement for maximized stem cell-based cardiac repair. Disease severity grading, prior to cell therapy, should be considered to inform regenerative medicine interventions.

Significance statement This article documents that cardiac chamber enlargement postinfarction is a predictor of cardiopoietic stem cell therapy response. Left ventricular size pretherapy could thus serve to guide the selection of ischemic heart failure candidates most suitable to receive a regenerative intervention.
Flexible Smart Noncontact Control Systems with Ultrasensitive Humidity Sensors
Authors: Yang Juehan , Shi Ruilong , Lou Zheng , Chai Ruiqing , Jiang Kai , Shen Guozhen
Published: August 2019

The development of noncontact humidity sensors with high sensitivity, rapid response, and a facile fabrication process is urgently desired for advanced noncontact human–machine interaction (HMI) applications. Here, a flexible and transparent humidity sensor based on MoO3 nanosheets is developed with a low‐cost and easily manufactured process. The designed humidity sensor exhibits ultrahigh sensitivity, fast response, great stability, and high selectivity, exceeding the state‐of‐the‐art humidity sensors. Furthermore, a wearable moisture analysis system is assembled for real‐time monitoring of ambient humidity and human breathing states. Benefiting from the sensitive and rapid response to fingertip humidity, the sensors are successfully applied to both a smart noncontact multistage switch and a novel flexible transparent noncontact screen for smart mobile devices, demonstrating the potential of the MoO3 nanosheets‐based humidity sensors in future HMI systems.
Na‐Induced Conversion of a Notorious Fine‐Grained Residue Layer into a Working Absorber in Solution‐Processed CuInSe2 Devices
Authors: Moon Jihyun , Rehan Shanza , Rana Tanka Raj , O Byungsung , Ahn Seung Kyu , Ahn SeJin
Published: August 2019

Na has been reported to increase the efficiency of not only vacuum‐processed but also the solution‐processed Cu(In,Ga)(Se,S)2 (CIGSSe)‐type solar cells. However, the physical mechanism underlying the improvement is significantly different depending on the nature of the processes, as exemplified by the experimental observation that the short circuit current density (JSC) of the solution‐processed devices reportedly increases upon Na addition, whereas that of the vacuum‐processed devices remains the same or even decreases. A systematic study is conducted to elucidate the reason for this Na‐induced JSC increase in the solution‐processed CuInSe2 (CISe) devices. In the amorphous nanoparticle‐based route, upon Na addition, the previously fine‐grained bottom layer near the CISe/Mo interface is transformed into a large‐grained layer, presumably because of the Na–Se liquid flux‐assisted sintering. At the same time, Na also induces phase homogenization in the bottom layer in which the mixed‐phases are converted to single‐phase CISe upon Na addition. These morphological and phase transformations are found to be directly related to the improved collection of the minority carriers generated in this region, which suggests to be the main reason for the observed JSC increase.
Chemobrionic Fabrication of Hierarchical Self‐Assembling Nanostructures of Copper Oxide and Hydroxide
Authors: Escamilla‐Roa Elizabeth , Cartwright Julyan H. E. , Sainz‐Díaz C. Ignacio
Published: August 2019

Copper oxide nanostructures have great potential use in a plethora of nanotechnology applications including nanoelectronics, photovoltaics, sensors, electrochemistry, and pharmacology. In the present work we show how hierarchically nano‐structured copper oxide and hydroxide may be prepared through self‐assembly from CuSO4 salt and silicate solutions using the chemobrionic growth process of a chemical garden. Procedures were explored using the cupric salt in either solid (pellet and seed growth methods) or liquid phase (fluid injection techniques). Self‐assembling nanostructures were characterized by means of environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis, micro‐Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction. Our results show the formation of crystalline aggregates of copper oxide and hydroxide in complex hierarchical nanostructured forms including fans, flowers, petals, skeins, lentils, and sheaves. Analytical methods corroborate that these nanostructures may be selected in shape and chemical composition with the reaction conditions.
Seismic performance of steel braced frames with self‐centering buckling‐restrained brace utilizing superelastic shape memory alloys
Authors: Nazarimofrad Ebrahim , Shokrgozar Ali
Published: August 2019

Buckling‐restrained braced frame (BRB) is one of the newest seismic force‐resisting systems used in buildings. However, one of the requirements for designing a structure is to provide a ductility behavior of structures to dissipate earthquake energy and to avoid residual drifts. These days, self‐centering seismic lateral force‐resisting systems have drawn attention due to their potentials to solve the above mentioned issues. On the other hand, shape memory alloys (SMAs) are characterized by unique superelastic behavior, which enables the material to recover its original shape after experiencing large deformations. The goal of this study is to assess BRBs whose ductility are improved by utilizing SMA. Nonlinear time history and incremental dynamic analysis techniques are applied to investigate the behavior of the two frames with different stories (four and eight stories) under different ground motion records. The results showed that utilizing BRB made of hybrid steel and SMA resulted in increasing ductility of the structure and decreasing residual displacements of the structures.