bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Naphthalene‐Diimide‐Based Ionenes as Universal Interlayers for Efficient Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Ming , Fan Pu , Hu Qin , Russell Thomas P. , Liu Yao
Published: June 2020

Self‐doping ionene polymers were efficiently synthesized by reacting functional naphthalene diimide (NDI) with 1,3‐dibromopropane (NDI‐NI) or trans‐1,4‐dibromo‐2‐butene (NDI‐CI) via quaternization polymerization. These NDI‐based ionene polymers are universal interlayers with random molecular orientation, boosting the efficiencies of fullerene‐based, non‐fullerene‐based, and ternary organic solar cells (OSCs) over a wide range of interlayer thicknesses, with a maximum efficiency of 16.9 %. NDI‐NI showed a higher interfacial dipole (Δ), conductivity, and electron mobility than NDI‐CI, affording solar cells with higher efficiencies. These polymers proved to efficiently lower the work function (WF) of air‐stable metals and optimize the contact between metal electrode and organic semiconductor, highlighting their power to overcome energy barriers of electron injection and extraction processes for efficient organic electronics.
BIMP‐Catalyzed 1,3‐Prototropic Shift for the Highly Enantioselective Synthesis of Conjugated Cyclohexenones
Authors: Golec Jonathan C. , Carter Eve M. , Ward John W. , Whittingham William G. , Simón Luis , Paton Robert S. , Dixon Darren J.
Published: June 2020

A bifunctional iminophosphorane (BIMP)‐catalysed enantioselective synthesis of α,β‐unsaturated cyclohexenones through a facially selective 1,3‐prototropic shift of β,γ‐unsaturated prochiral isomers, under mild reaction conditions and in short reaction times, on a range of structurally diverse substrates, is reported. α,β‐Unsaturated cyclohexenone products primed for downstream derivatisation were obtained in high yields (up to 99 %) and consistently high enantioselectivity (up to 99 % ee). Computational studies into the reaction mechanism and origins of enantioselectivity, including multivariate linear regression of TS energy, were carried out and the obtained data were found to be in good agreement with experimental findings.
Rhombicuboctahedral Ag100: Four‐Layered Octahedral Silver Nanocluster Adopting the Russian Nesting Doll Model
Authors: Ma Xiangyu , Bai Yuyuan , Song Yongbo , Li Qinzhen , Lv Ying , Zhang Hui , Yu Haizhu , Zhu Manzhou
Published: June 2020

Precise atomic structure of metal nanoclusters (NCs) is fundamental for elucidating the structure–property relationships and the inherent size‐evolution principles. Reported here is the largest known FCC‐based (FCC=face centered cubic) silver nanocluster, [Ag100(SC6H33,4F2)48(PPh3)8]−: the first all‐octahedral symmetric nesting Ag nanocluster with a four‐layered Ag6@Ag38@Ag48S24@Ag8S24P8 structure, consistent symmetry elements, and a unique rhombicuboctahedral morphology distinct from theoretical predictions and previously reported FCC‐based Ag clusters. DFT studies revealed extensive interlayer interactions and degenerate frontier orbitals. The FCC‐based Russian nesting doll model constitutes a new platform for the study of the size‐evolution principles of Ag NCs.
Ultrafast Exciton Self‐Trapping and Delocalization in Cycloparaphenylenes: The Role of Excited‐State Symmetry in Electron‐Vibrational Coupling
Authors: Kim Juno , Kishi Ryohei , Kayahara Eiichi , Kim Woojae , Yamago Shigeru , Nakano Masayoshi , Kim Dongho
Published: June 2020

Upon photon absorption, π‐conjugated organics are apt to undergo ultrafast structural reorganization via electron‐vibrational coupling during non‐adiabatic transitions. Ultrafast nuclear motions modulate local planarity and quinoid/benzenoid characters within conjugated backbones, which control primary events in the excited states, such as localization, energy transfer, and so on. Femtosecond broadband fluorescence upconversion measurements were conducted to investigate exciton self‐trapping and delocalization in cycloparaphenylenes as ultrafast structural reorganizations are achieved via excited‐state symmetry‐dependent electron‐vibrational coupling. By accessing two high‐lying excited states, one‐photon and two‐photon allowed states, a clear discrepancy in the initial time‐resolved fluorescence spectra and the temporal dynamics/spectral evolution of fluorescence spectra were monitored. Combined with quantum chemical calculations, a novel insight into the effect of the excited‐state symmetry on ultrafast structural reorganization and exciton self‐trapping in the emerging class of π‐conjugated materials is provided.
What Use is Anatomy in First Opinion Small Animal Veterinary Practice? A Qualitative Study
Authors: Wheble Roisin , Channon Sarah Beth
Published: June 2020

Despite the uncontested importance of anatomy as one of the foundational aspects of undergraduate veterinary programs, there is still limited information available as to what anatomy knowledge is most important for the graduate veterinarian in their daily clinical work. The aim of this study was therefore to gain a deeper understanding of the role that anatomy plays in first opinion small animal veterinary practice. Using ethnographic methodologies, the authors aimed to collect rich qualitative data to answer the question “How do first opinion veterinarians use anatomy knowledge in their day‐to‐day clinical practice?” Detailed observations and semi‐structured interviews were conducted with five veterinarians working within a single small animal first opinion practice in the United Kingdom. Thematic analysis was undertaken, identifying five main themes: Importance; Uncertainty; Continuous learning; Comparative and dynamic anatomy; and Communication and language. Anatomy was found to be interwoven within all aspects of clinical practice; however, veterinarians were uncertain in their anatomy knowledge. This impacted their confidence and how they carried out their work. Veterinarians described continually learning and refreshing their anatomy knowledge in order to effectively undertake their role, highlighting the importance of teaching information literacy skills within anatomy curricula. An interrelationship between anatomy use, psychomotor, and professional skills was also highlighted. Based on these findings, recommendations were made for veterinary anatomy curriculum development. This study provides an in‐depth view within a single site small animal general practice setting: further work is required to assess the transferability of these findings to other areas of veterinary practice.
Quantifying the link between heavy precipitation and Northern Hemisphere blocking—A Lagrangian analysis
Authors: Lenggenhager Sina , Martius Olivia
Published: June 2020

Atmospheric blocks strongly influence surface weather, including extremes such as heat waves and cold spells. Recently, diabatic heating and associated upper‐tropospheric potential vorticity (PV) modification have been identified as important modulators of atmospheric blocking dynamics. Also, robust links between atmospheric blocks and proximate heavy precipitation events have been established. This leads to the question of the extent to which diabatic heating associated with heavy precipitation events influences Northern Hemisphere blocking. This study uses 5 years of 3‐day back trajectories started from objectively identified blocks in the ERA‐Interim dataset to investigate this relationship. A substantial fraction of air parcels in blocks pass through heavy precipitation areas. The exact fraction depends on the choice of heavy precipitation threshold. Roughly 19% of all the trajectories in a block pass a heavy precipitation area (>95th percentile) area while being saturated. Of the air parcels in a block that are heated at least 5 K, 60% pass a heavy precipitation area while saturated. This fraction varies with the season and geographical area. The overall fraction is lowest in summer and highest in winter, higher over oceans than over land, and higher over the Pacific than over the Atlantic. In summer, heating is relevant over the continents and heating over North America influences blocks over the eastern Atlantic. For summer blocks in the North Atlantic and over Scandinavia, heating happens partly over the European continent.
Facile Synthesis of Cubic Magnetic Up‐Conversion Nanoparticles
Authors: Pham Xuan‐Hung , Rho Won‐Yeop , Kim Hyung‐Mo , Hahm Eunil , Kang Eunji , Murata Michael M. , Jun Bong‐Hyun
Published: June 2020

Efficient methods for fabricating multifunctional nanoparticles can expand the range of their applications in biomedicine. Therefore, in this study, a mild synthesis method for cubic magnetic up‐conversion nanoparticles (MUCNPs) was explored. The MUCNPs were prepared at 160 °C and exhibited fluorescence when irradiated using a 915 nm wavelength laser along with magnetic properties. The MUCNPs exhibited higher intensity of fluorescence than UCNPs without any addition of magnetic nanoparticles. Moreover, MUNCPs exhibiting fluorescence with three different colors, namely green, yellow, and blue were successfully prepared using different Yb:Er ratios and by replacing Er with Tm; these nanoparticles can be useful for biomedical applications such as in therapies involving single nanosystems.
Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of ipatasertib in dog plasma using LC/MS/MS
Authors: Liu Ying , Ma Chunzheng , Jiao Weijie , Yang Yanhua , Zhang Huifang , Du Lei , Ma Ming , Sun Pin , Li Xiaokun , Chen Jianshe
Published: June 2020

A rapid, sensitive, and reliable liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometric method was developed to quantify ipatasertib in dog plasma. The dog plasma sample was deproteinated by using acetonitrile with ulixertinib as an internal standard followed by separation on a Spursil C18‐EP column with a gradient mobile phase comprising 2 mM ammonium acetate containing 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile. Positive ion electrospray was used, and multiple reaction monitoring transitions were m/z 458.2 > 387.2 for ipatasertib and m/z 433.1 > 262.1 for the internal standard. The developed method was validated with a linear range of 0.3–1500 ng/mL, and with correlation coefficient greater than 0.9989. The lower limit of quantification was 0.3 ng/mL. The intra‐ and inter‐day precision ranged from 3.58 to 14.32%, whereas the intra‐ and inter‐day accuracy was in the range of −2.50–13.25%. No carry‐over and matrix effects were observed under the current conditions. The extraction recovery was demonstrated to be greater than 85.43%. Ipatasertib was stable during the storage, processing, and determination. The validated assay was further successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of ipatasertib in dogs after oral and intravenous administrations. The bioavailability of ipatasertib was determined to be 19.3%.
Inside‐tube solid‐phase microextraction as an interlink between solid‐phase microextraction and needle device forn‐hexane evaluation in air and urine headspace
Authors: Ghafari Javad , Vahabi Masoomeh , Dehghan Somayeh Farhang , Zendehdel Rezvan
Published: June 2020

Monitoring the trace amount of chemicals in various samples remains a challenge. This study was conducted to develop a new solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) system (inside‐tube SPME) for trace analysis ofn‐hexane in air and urine matrix. The inside‐tube SPME system was prepared based on the phase separation technique. A mixture of carbon aerogel and polystyrene was loaded inside the needle using methanol as the anti‐solvent. The air matrix ofn‐hexane was prepared in a Tedlar bag, andn‐hexane vapor was sampled at a flow rate of 0.1 L/min. Urine samples spiked withn‐hexane were used to simulate the sampling method. The limit of detection using the inside‐tube SPME was 0.0003 μg/sample with 2.5 mg of adsorbent, whereas that using the packed needle was 0.004 μg/sample with 5 mg of carbon aerogel. Forn‐hexane analysis, the day‐to‐day and within‐day coefficient variation were lower than 1.37%, with recoveries over 98.41% achieved. The inside‐tube SPME is an inter‐link device between two sample preparation methods, namely, a needle trap device and an SPME system. The result of this study suggested the use of the inside‐tube SPME containing carbon aerogel (adsorbent) as a simple and fast method with low cost forn‐hexane evaluation.
Nutritional quality of gluten‐free products in Moroccan supermarkets and e‐commerce platforms
Authors: Guennouni Morad , El Khoudri Noureddine , Bourrhouat Aicha , Hilali Abderraouaf
Published: June 2020

Background and objectives

Gluten found in wheat, barley, and rye causes celiac disease. The treatment of this disease is based on the gluten‐free diet. This diet involves the consumption of gluten‐free foods including gluten‐free products (GFPs) developed by manufacturers. The objective of this survey is to estimate the nutritional composition of the gluten‐free products by comparing them to equivalent regular products (RPs) containing gluten.

Findings

While the fiber contents were higher in the gluten‐free products, protein and sugar contents were lower in comparison with regular products (p < .0001). The differences in total energy, total carbohydrate, saturated fat, and salt differ from one category to another. The number of gluten‐free products that have been fortified with iron and vitamins was limited. The category of “Bread and Bakery products” which is the most consumed in Morocco is characterized by a low and high protein and fiber content, respectively (p < .001; p = .015, respectively).

Conclusions

The nutritional quality of the gluten‐free products is unbalanced. A significant protein deficiency is noted.

Significance and novelty

It is important to improve the nutritional quality of the gluten‐free products by replacing gluten with hydrocolloids and protein rich enzymes. A fortification by iron and vitamins remains a necessity to overcome the deficit.
Lichen planus of the external auditory canal: Treatment options and review of literature
Authors: Lazzerini Francesco , Bruschini Luca , Berrettini Stefano , De Vito Andrea , Forli Francesca
Published: June 2020

Medical topic therapies can relieve symptoms associated with lichen planus of external auditory canal. Further, bone‐anchored hearing devices represent an optimal solution for hearing restoration in otic lichen planus.
Laboratory Notebooks and Data Storage
Authors: Williams Michael , Bozyczko‐Coyne Donna , Dorsey Bruce , Larsen Scott , Powers Chris , Gallagher Sean
Published: June 2020

The laboratory notebook, whether in hardcopy or electronic (ELN) format, represents a true, chronological record of a scientist's bench work, incorporating the primary source of all materials and information related to the design, execution, and outcomes (data) for a specific experiment. The notebook content thus represents a precise, legible record of what was done, why, and by whom. It also describes the outcome of the experiment and how this is related to the initial hypothesis on which performing the experiment was based. As an archive, a laboratory notebook allows others previously unassociated with the work to understand what was done and, if necessary, independently recreate the experiments. A laboratory notebook and its associated records (e.g., computer printouts or HPLC traces) also represent the vital record of the conception date of an invention and its reduction to practice, providing a timely and necessary legal record to support and defend patent applications. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Ribociclib Drug‐Drug Interactions: Clinical Evaluations and Physiologically‐Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling to Guide Drug Labeling
Authors: Samant Tanay S. , Huth Felix , Umehara Kenichi , Schiller Hilmar , Dhuria Shyeilla V. , Elmeliegy Mohamed , Miller Michelle , Chakraborty Abhijit , Heimbach Tycho , He Handan , Ji Yan
Published: June 2020

Ribociclib is approved in combination with endocrine therapy as initial endocrine‐based therapy for HR‐positive and HER2‐negative advanced breast cancer. Ribociclib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and, in vitro, is an inhibitor of CYP3A and CYP1A2. Ritonavir (a strong CYP3A inhibitor) increased ribociclib 400 mg single‐dose area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC) by 3.2‐fold, whereas rifampin (a strong CYP3A inducer) decreased ribociclib AUC by 89% in healthy volunteers (HVs). Multiple 400 mg ribociclib doses increased midazolam (CYP3A substrate) AUC by 3.8‐fold and caffeine (CYP1A2 substrate) AUC by 1.2‐fold vs. each agent alone. A physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was developed integrating in vitro, preclinical, and clinical data of HVs and patients with cancer. Data predictions indicated that multiple 600 mg ribociclib doses increased midazolam AUC by 5.85‐fold and ritonavir increased ribociclib 600 mg multiple dose AUC by 1.31‐fold in cancer patients. Based on pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy data, and PBPK modeling, dosing modifications for ribociclib recommend avoiding concurrent use of strong CYP3A inhibitors/inducers, and caution regarding using CYP3A substrates with narrow therapeutic indices.
Stroke and Bleeding Risks in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Treated with Reduced Apixaban Dose: A Real‐Life Study
Authors: Salameh Maram , Gronich Naomi , Stein Nili , Kotler Antonio , Rennert Gad , Auriel Eitan , Saliba Walid
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study was to assess the association between reduced apixaban dose and two outcomes: ischemic stroke/systemic embolism (SE) and major bleeding. We performed a retrospective cohort study within the database of the largest healthcare provider in Israel. We identified all patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, who started apixaban treatment between 2013 and 2017. Apixaban users were classified into three dosing regimen groups based on their renal function, age, and weight: standard dose (5 mg b.i.d.), adjusted reduced dose (2.5 mg b.i.d.), and underdosing (2.5 mg b.i.d.). Patients were followed through 2018 for the occurrence of stroke/SE and major bleeding. Of the 27,765 included patients, 13,141 (47%) adequately received standard apixaban dose, 4,739 patients (17%) received adjusted reduced dose, and 9,885 patients (36%) were classified as underdosed. The CHA2DS2‐VASc score adjusted hazard ratio for ischemic stroke/SE was 1.1 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.83–1.43) in the adjusted reduced dose group, and 1.04 (95% CI, 0.83–1.35) in the underdosing group, compared with the standard apixaban dose group. The HAS‐BLED score adjusted hazard ratio for any major bleeding was 1.66 (95% CI, 1.32–2.09) in the adjusted reduced dose group, and 1.51 (95% CI, 1.24–1.83) in the underdosing group, compared with apixaban in the standard dose group. Results were similar for major gastrointestinal bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage separately. We conclude that underdosing with apixaban is very common, and may not disproportionately elevate the risk of ischemic stroke. However, albeit halving the dose, patients treated with reduced apixaban dose (adjusted or underdosing) seem to be at higher risk for major bleeding.
Towards Rational Cancer Therapeutics: Optimizing Dosing, Delivery, Scheduling, and Combinations
Authors: Ferrer Florent , Fanciullino Raphaelle , Milano Gérard , Ciccolini Joseph
Published: June 2020

The current trend to personalize anticancer therapies mostly relies on selecting the best drug or combination of drugs to achieve optimal efficacy in patients. In addition to the comprehensive genetic and molecular knowledge of each tumor before choosing the drugs to be given, there is probably much room left for improvement by further personalizing the very modes by which the drugs are given, once they have been carefully selected. In particular, shifting from standard dosing to tailored dosing should help in maintaining drug exposure levels in the right therapeutic window, thus ensuring that the efficacy/toxicity balance is optimal. This paper covers the current knowledge regarding pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationships of anticancer agents, from decades‐old cytotoxics to the latest immune checkpoint inhibitors, the most frequent sources for long‐neglected interpatient variability impacting on drug exposure levels, and what could be done to achieve real personalized medicine in oncology such as implementing therapeutic drug monitoring with adaptive dosing strategies or using model‐driven modalities for personalized dosing and scheduling.
Life‐history traits ofTubastraea coccinea: Reproduction, development, and larval competence
Authors: Luz Bruna L. P. , Di Domenico Maikon , Migotto Alvaro E. , Kitahara Marcelo V.
Published: June 2020

The sun coralTubastraea coccineaLesson, 1829 (Dendrophylliidae) is a widely distributed shallow‐water scleractinian that has extended its range to non‐native habitats in recent decades. With its rapid spread, this coral is now one of the main invasive species in Brazil. Its high invasive capability is related to opportunistic characteristics, including several reproductive strategies that have allowed it to disperse rapidly and widely. To better understand the reproductive biology ofT. coccineaand aid in developing management strategies for invaded areas, we investigated aspects of its reproductive performance and life cycle, including the effects of colony size, seawater temperature and salinity, and lunar periodicity on offspring production and larval metamorphosis competence. A total of 18,139 offspring were released in different developmental stages, mainly from the larger colonies, which also produced larvae with longer competence periods. The main reproductive peak occurred during the First Quarter and New Moon phases and was highest in water temperatures around 26°C. Together, these results help to explain the rapid expansion ofT. coccineainto non‐native habitats such as the Caribbean and southwestern Atlantic, and will inform actions of the recent Brazilian National Plan for the prevention, eradication, control, and monitoring of sun corals.
A two‐step human culture system replicates intestinal monocyte maturation cascade: Conversion of tissue‐like inflammatory monocytes into macrophages
Authors: Bsat Marwa , Chapuy Laurence , Rubio Manuel , Sarfati Marika
Published: June 2020

Monocyte maturation program into macrophages (MΦ) is well defined in murine gut under homeostatic or inflammatory conditions. Obviously, in vivo tracking of monocytes in inflamed tissues remains difficult in humans. Furthermore, in vitro models fall short in generating the surrogates of transient extravasated tissue inflammatory monocytes. Here, we aimed to unravel environmental cues that replicated the human monocyte “waterfall” process in vitro by first, generating tissue‐like inflammatory monocytes, which were then shifted toward MΦ. Purified CD14+CD16− monocytes, cultured with granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF), IFN‐γ and IL23, differentiated into CD14+CD163− cells that displayed a monocyte‐like morphology. In vitro generated inflammatory CD14+CD163− (inflammatory monocyte‐like cells) cells promoted IL‐1β‐dependent memory Th17 and Th17/Th1 responses, like the CD14+CD163− mo‐like cells that accumulate in inflamed colon of Crohn's disease patients. Next, in vitro generated inflammatory monocyte‐like cells converted to functional CD163+ MΦ following exposure to TGF‐β and IL10. Gene set enrichment analysis further revealed a shared molecular signature between converted CD163+ MΦ and MΦ detected in various inflamed nonlymphoid and lymphoid diseased tissues. Our findings propose a two‐step in vitro culture that recapitulates human monocyte maturation cascade in inflamed tissue. Manipulation of this process might open therapeutic avenues for chronic inflammatory disorders.
From Isolated Molecular Complexes to Extended Networks: Synthesis and Characterization of Thorium Furanmono‐ and Dicarboxylates
Authors: Murray Aphra V. , Vanagas Nicole A. , Wacker Jennifer N. , Bertke Jeffery A. , Knope Karah E.
Published: June 2020

Aqueous reactions of thorium chloride and furanmono‐ and dicarboxylate ligands including 2‐furoate (2FA), 3‐furoate (3FA), and 2,5‐furandicarboxylate (2,5FDC) yielded four Th(IV) phases that exhibit diverse structural chemistry ranging from isolated molecular units to 3D topologies. [Th(2FA)4]n (Th‐1) and [Th(3FA)4]n (Th‐2) consist of isostructural ligand bridged 1D chains. The compounds exhibit wide stability, forming at temperatures of 20–120 °C and pH ca. 1–4. Using the bifunctional ligand 2,5FDC a stark difference is observed; Th2(2,5FDC)4(H2O)10·2H2O (Th‐3) is built from relatively rare ligand‐bridged molecular complexes. Th‐3 similarly exhibits broad synthetic stability, forming over 20–100 °C and pH 1.8–6. At higher temperatures; however, [Th(2,5FDC)2(H2O)2]n (Th‐4), which adopts an extended 3D network is observed. The structures were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and further characterized via Raman and IR spectroscopy as well as thermogravimetric analysis. Overall, the work highlights the role of organic ligands in the stabilization of unique Th structural units.
‘Therapists in action’—Home treatment in adolescent anorexia nervosa: A stepped care approach to shorten inpatient treatment
Authors: Herpertz‐Dahlmann Beate , Borzikowsky Christoph , Altdorf Sophie , Heider Kathrin , Dempfle Astrid , Dahmen Brigitte
Published: June 2020

Objective

It was the aim of this pilot study to apply a novel eating disorder (ED)‐specific home treatment (HoT) to adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) and to investigate its feasibility, effects and safety.

Method

Twenty‐two patients consecutively admitted to the hospital and fulfilling DSM‐5 criteria for typical or atypical AN received HoT after 4–8 weeks of inpatient treatment. During the first two months of HoT, the patient and her family were visited on average three to four times per week, during the third and fourth months of HoT once or twice a week by a multi‐professional team. Body mass index, ED and general psychopathology, quality of life and treatment satisfaction were assessed in the patients at admission, start and end of HoT and the 1‐year follow‐up as well as carers' skills and burden.

Results

The majority of patients successfully achieved target weight within HoT and maintained it successfully at the 1‐year follow‐up. ED and general psychopathology in the patients and carers' skills improved significantly associated with a high treatment satisfaction.

Conclusions

HoT seems to be a promising new tool to improve outcome in adolescent AN and to reduce time of hospitalisation. Larger randomised controlled trials are needed to generalise these results.
Assessing smoke toxicity of burning combustibles by four expressions for fractional effective dose
Authors: Chow C.L. , Han S.S. , Han G.Y. , Hou G.L. , Chow W.K.
Published: June 2020

Toxicity of smoke generated in a fire is difficult to measure accurately. That is because gas sensors for measuring rapidly varying concentrations of toxic gases are not yet developed. Simple expressions are searched for quick measurement in assessing smoke toxicity practically. Four equations on calculating fractional effective dose (FED) related to toxic effluents were reported in the literature, each based on different assumptions. FED value was proposed to be calculated based on peak carbon monoxide concentration and peak carbon dioxide concentration, and transient carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and oxygen concentrations. The four values were compared in this article using literature data on toxic gases from different materials measured by (i) cone calorimeter; (ii) full‐scale burning tests; and (iii) tunnel full‐scale tests. Measured carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and oxygen concentrations by standard equipment of oxygen consumption calorimeters were used to calculate the four FED values. It is found that the values of FED based on peak carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide concentrations (denoted as FED2) are similar to the average values of FED calculated from the updated equation in the literature using the oxygen consumption calorimeters. Putting the values of FED2 in fire safety design guides is then recommended.
Assessing vitamin D related genetic variants, status, and influence factors in pregnant women in Eastern and Central China
Authors: Qiu Xiaofei , Chen Xinhao , Zuo Shangming , Ji Yuan , Wen Zheng , Wei Linna , Wu Shouxin , Diao Le , Li Bo , Zhao Jiangman , Chen Tianrui
Published: June 2020

Vitamin D deficiency has recently become a global public health problem. However, it is still unclear if gene polymorphisms in the vitamin D pathway influence vitamin D levels among pregnant women in Eastern and Central China. The objective of this study was to assess factors influencing vitamin D levels in pregnant women. A total of 326 participants in Shandong and Henan provinces in China were enrolled from August 2017 to April 2019. Serum 25(OH)D levels and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the vitamin D pathway were measured using the blood samples collected in the first trimester, second trimester, and third trimester. Data on demographics, lifestyle, and health behavior were collected using a questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed using the R software. The prevalence of 25(OH)D deficiency was significantly more severe in pregnant women. The average 25(OH)D value of all enrolled pregnant women was 14.57 ± 7.21 ng/ml (deficiency). Only 15 (4.60%) participants had a 25(OH)D concentration ≥30 ng/ml (sufficient). The prevalence of four ranks of vitamin D levels from severe 25(OH)D deficiency to 25(OH)D sufficiency (<10, 10–20, 20–30, and ≥30 ng/ml) was 29.14%, 52.45%, 13.80%, and 4.60%, respectively. Variants of GC (rs1155563) and CYP24A1 (rs6013897) were significantly associated with both 25(OH)D concentrations and vitamin D deficiency among pregnant women, respectively. Our findings suggest that pregnant women in Eastern and Central China are at high risk of vitamin D deficiency. Genetic mutants in the vitamin D pathway (GC and CYP24A1) were significantly associated with 25(OH)D levels in pregnant women in Eastern and Central China.
Simultaneous Heart–Liver Transplantation for Congenital Heart Disease in the United States: Rapidly Increasing With Acceptable Outcomes
Authors: Cotter Thomas G. , Wang Jennifer , Peeraphatdit Thoetchai , Sandıkçı Burhaneddin , Ayoub Fares , Kim Gene , Te Helen , Jeevanandam Valluvan , Sabato Diego , Charlton Michael
Published: June 2020

Background and Aims

There are more adults than children living with congenital heart disease (CHD) in the United States, with a growing proportion requiring heart–liver transplantation (HLT). Our aim was to ascertain the frequency, outcomes, and prognostic factors in this patient population.

Approach and Results

United Network for Organ Sharing data on adult patients who underwent heart transplantation (HT) from 2009 through March 2020 were analyzed. The primary study outcome was patient survival. Cox proportional‐hazards modeling assessed for mortality associations. There were 1,084 HT recipients: 817 (75.4%) CHD HTs only, 74 (6.8%) CHD HLTs, 179 (16.5%) non‐CHD HLTs, and 14 (1.3%) heart–liver–kidney transplants. The number of CHD HLTs increased from a prior rate of 4/year to 21/year in 2019. Among patients with CHD, the 5‐year survival rates were 74.1% and 73.6% in HTs only and HLTs, respectively (P = 0.865). There was a higher rate of allograft failure attributable to rejection in CHD HTs only compared with CHD HLTs (3.2% versus 0.4%; P = 0.014). Only 25 out of 115 HT‐performing hospitals undertook CHD HLTs. Higher‐volume centers (averaging one CHD HLT per year) had a 5‐year patient survival rate of 83.0% compared with 61.3% in lower‐volume centers (P = 0.079). Among HLT recipients, total bilirubin (hazard ratio [HR], 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01‐1.12) and diabetes (HR = 2.97, 95% CI = 1.21‐7.31) were independently associated with increased mortality risk, whereas CHD and age were not.

Conclusions

The rate of HLT for adult CHD in the United States is rising dramatically. The survival outcomes between CHD HT only and CHD HLT groups are comparable; however, the HLT group had lower rates of acute rejection. Among HLT recipients, diabetes and elevated bilirubin are associated with increased posttransplant mortality risk. An average of one CHD HLT per year could be considered a minimum quality metric at transplant centers.
Functional Microbiomics Reveals Alterations of the Gut Microbiome and Host Co‐Metabolism in Patients With Alcoholic Hepatitis
Authors: Gao Bei , Duan Yi , Lang Sonja , Barupal Dinesh , Wu Tsung‐Chin , Valdiviez Luis , Roberts Bryan , Choy Ying Yng , Shen Tong , Byram Gregory , Zhang Ying , Fan Sili , Wancewicz Benjamin , Shao Yan , Vervier Kevin , Wang Yanhan , Zhou Rongrong , Jiang Lu , Nath Shilpa , Loomba Rohit , Abraldes Juan G. , Bataller Ramon , Tu Xin M. , Stärkel Peter , Lawley Trevor D. , Fiehn Oliver , Schnabl Bernd
Published: June 2020

Alcohol‐related liver disease is a major public health burden, and the gut microbiota is an important contributor to disease pathogenesis. The aim of the present study is to characterize functional alterations of the gut microbiota and test their performance for short‐term mortality prediction in patients with alcoholic hepatitis. We integrated shotgun metagenomics with untargeted metabolomics to investigate functional alterations of the gut microbiota and host co‐metabolism in a multicenter cohort of patients with alcoholic hepatitis. Profound changes were found in the gut microbial composition, functional metagenome, serum, and fecal metabolomes in patients with alcoholic hepatitis compared with nonalcoholic controls. We demonstrate that in comparison with single omics alone, the performance to predict 30‐day mortality was improved when combining microbial pathways with respective serum metabolites in patients with alcoholic hepatitis. The area under the receiver operating curve was higher than 0.85 for the tryptophan, isoleucine, and methionine pathways as predictors for 30‐day mortality, but achieved 0.989 for using the urea cycle pathway in combination with serum urea, with a bias‐corrected prediction error of 0.083 when using leave‐one‐out cross validation. Conclusion: Our study reveals changes in key microbial metabolic pathways associated with disease severity that predict short‐term mortality in our cohort of patients with alcoholic hepatitis.
An adaptive model of health system organization and responses helped Vietnam to successfully halt the Covid‐19 pandemic: What lessons can be learned from a resource‐constrained country
Authors: Van Nguyen Huy , Van Hoang Minh , Dao An Thi Minh , Nguyen Hoa L. , Van Nguyen Tien , Nguyen Phuong The , Khuong Long Quynh , Le Phuong Mai , Gilmour Stuart
Published: June 2020

Coping with the COVID‐19 pandemic has been painful and no single model for such a purpose is perfect. However, sharing experiences is the best way for countries to learn real‐time lessons and adapt to this rapidly changing pandemic. This commentary shares with the international community how an adaptive model of health system organization and responses helped Vietnam to break transmission of coronavirus. We find that an effective model is adaptive to time and context, and mobilizes and engages the wider society. We identify merging of different health system units into Center for Diseases Controls as a health system organization that saved massive resources. The early establishment of a formal committee responding to the pandemic helped unify every public health strategy. The mobilization of different stakeholders and communities added resources and facilitated a synchronous implementation of response strategies, even where those strategies involved significant personal or financial sacrifice. National training on Covid‐19 treatment for healthcare professionals across the entire hospital system was useful to expand the health service availability. Quickly published response guidelines helped to activate every level of the health system and involve every sector of society. A strategy of keeping high alert and preemptive action is also essential for coping with the pandemic.
Differential transformed approach of unsteady chemically reactive nanofluid flow over a bidirectional stretched surface in presence of magnetic field
Authors: Acharya Nilankush , Maity Suprakash , Kundu Prabir K.
Published: June 2020

This study investigates the consequences of steady and unsteady nanofluid flow over a bidirectional stretching sheet. Herein, the magnetic field is working in the normal direction. The Brownian motion together with thermophoresis is taken into consideration. Moreover, the chemical reaction within the nanoingredients also occupies a novel corner in this study. The leading equations of the considered model are transferred to nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by an appropriate similarity transformation. The differential transformation method is used to solve the set of ODEs. We have used MAPLE‐17 software to solve this with the desired accuracy rate. Results are portrayed with graphs and tables. The corresponding physical consignments such as the Nusselt number, skin friction, and the Sherwood number are exhibited. Excellent improvement in heat and mass transport is observed, which can be visualized through tables. Outcomes reveal that both the temperature and x‐direction velocity are reduced for the stretching parameter. Heat transport escalates for stretching factor, but higher outcomes are marked for the unsteady flow as compared with the steady flow. The mass transfer also increases for the chemical reaction factor, but the rate of increment is higher for the unsteady flow.
Ready when you are: Answering your questions about psychotherapy
Authors: Geller Jesse D. , Farber Barry A.
Published: June 2020

Psychotherapeutic treatment tends to have a high attrition rate (“premature termination”) and there have been multiple efforts to help new patients, including those considering treatment, better understand the nature and expectations inherent to this process as a means to improve retention and outcome. These efforts are often grouped under the term “role induction.” This script, from a DVD produced in 2010, was written to help prepare new psychotherapy clients for this new role in their lives—specifically, to educate prospective patients about the unique and sometimes surprising features of psychotherapy and to empower them to ask questions of their therapist about the process. This script presents a conversation that takes place among three patients in the waiting room of a psychotherapy clinic who speak about common fears, misconceptions, and uncertainties surrounding psychotherapy.
Regenerative potential of Wharton's jelly‐derived mesenchymal stem cells: A new horizon of stem cell therapy
Authors: Abbaszadeh Hossein , Ghorbani Farzaneh , Derakhshani Mehdi , Movassaghpour Ali Akbar , Yousefi Mehdi , Talebi Mehdi , Shamsasenjan Karim
Published: June 2020

Umbilical cord Wharton's jelly‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ‐MSCs) have recently gained considerable attention in the field of regenerative medicine. Their high proliferation rate, differentiation ability into various cell lineages, easy collection procedure, immuno‐privileged status, nontumorigenic properties along with minor ethical issues make them an ideal approach for tissue repair. Besides, the number of WJ‐MSCs in the umbilical cord samples is high as compared to other sources. Because of these properties, WJ‐MSCs have rapidly advanced into clinical trials for the treatment of a wide range of disorders. Therefore, this paper summarized the current preclinical and clinical studies performed to investigate the regenerative potential of WJ‐MSCs in neural, myocardial, skin, liver, kidney, cartilage, bone, muscle, and other tissue injuries.
Retracted: lncRNA PVT1 promotes the migration of gastric cancer by functioning as ceRNA of miR‐30a and regulating Snail
Authors: Wang Lina , Xiao Bin , Yu Ting , Gong Li , Wang Yu , Zhang Xiaokai , Zou Quanming , Zuo Qianfei
Published: June 2020

Although the incidence and mortality of gastric cancer (GC) are slowly decreasing, the overall prognosis of GC patients with distal metastasis remains dismal. Long non‐coding RNA PVT1 has been verified to function as a tumor promoter in several types of cancer. However, the role of PVT1 in GC metastasis remains obscure. Herein, we found that PVT1 was highly expressed in GC tissues and high PVT1 level was associated with tumor stage, lymph node metastasis, and poor prognosis. Overexpression of PVT1 significantly elevated epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker (N‐cadherin, ZEB1, and ZEB2) levels and promoted GC cell EMT process and tumor metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, Snail was identified as a direct target of miR‐30a. PVT1 could bind with miR‐30a and increase the expression of Snail by acting as a competing endogenous RNA, whereas re‐expression of miR‐30a in GC cells rescued the EMT markers, decreased Snail level, and inhibited GC cell migration. Taken together, these findings provide a new light on PVT1 in the pathogenesis and development of GC and an important implication for future therapy of the GC.
Pri‐miR‐144 rs9279 is associated with type 2 diabetes and regulation of stress response
Authors: Yan Yu‐Xiang , Xiao Huan‐Bo , Zhang Jie , Wang Shuo , Dong Jing , Wu Li‐Juan
Published: June 2020

Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of microRNAs (miRNAs) may alter miRNA expression, binding affinity, and/or messenger RNA expression levels of the target genes, thus leading to disease susceptibility. This study explored the association between SNPs in neuroendocrine stress response‐related miRNAs and type 2 diabetes (T2D). In the screening stage, the association between six candidate SNPs of miRNAs and T2D was analyzed in a case‐control study including 504 T2D cases and 494 healthy controls. Homozygous GG genotype of pri‐miR‐144 rs9279 showed significant association with increased risk of T2D compared with homozygous TT genotype (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07–2.45; p = .023) and the combined TT/TG genotype (adjusted OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.08–2.36; p = .020). In the validation stage, the association was further validated in a second independent set of subjects. The GG genotype showed consistent directions and effect sizes that were identified in previous additive and recessive models. The expression levels of miRNAs were further compared between different genotypes in the 179 newly diagnosed cases and 183 frequency‐matched healthy controls. As a result, the GG genotype carriers had significantly upregulated expression of plasma miR‐144 and cortisol, as compared to individuals with TT and TG genotypes, respectively, in total subjects and subgroups (p < .05). Eventually, NR3C1 was proved to be a stress‐related target gene of miR‐144, indicating that pri‐miR‐144 rs9279 may contribute to the development of T2D by altering regulation of stress response.
Sources and subsurface transport of dissolved reactive phosphorus in a semiarid, no‐till catchment with complex topography
Authors: Ortega‐Pieck Aline , Norby Jessica , Brooks Erin S. , Strawn Daniel , Crump Alex R. , Huggins David R.
Published: June 2020

The subsurface transport of dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) from artificially drained agricultural fields can impair water quality, especially in no‐till fields. The distribution of soil P in the wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)‐dominated Palouse region in the inland U.S. Pacific Northwest varies greatly due to its steep and complex topography, and a legacy (∼130 yr) of excessive soil erosion and deposition processes. The primary goal of this research was to better understand the magnitude and temporal dynamics of DRP export from an artificial drain line and the variability of subsurface DRP leaching within a long‐term, no‐till field. Dissolved reactive P in drain line effluent was monitored across three water years. Large intact soil cores were extracted at contrasting field locations (toe and top slope positions) to measure DRP leachate concentration and relative P sorption. Drain line DRP concentration was predominantly >0.05 mg L−1 and often exceeded 0.1 mg L−1 during winter and early spring. Mean leachate DRP levels were significantly higher in toe slope cores than in top slope cores (0.11 and 0.02 mg L−1, respectively). Saturated hydraulic conductivity varied widely across cores and was not correlated with leachate DRP concentration. All soil cores exhibited high P sorption potential, even under conditions of preferential flow. These findings suggest that much of the DRP transport in these landscapes is derived from P hotspots located in toe slope positions. Application of soil P fertilizer amounts in variable rates that account for spatial variability in P transport may minimize P enrichment and subsequent leaching in these locations.
Evolutionary bedfellows: Reconstructing the ancestral state of autotomy and regeneration
Authors: Dunoyer Luc A. , Seifert Ashley W. , Van Cleve Jeremy
Published: June 2020

Some form of regeneration occurs in all lifeforms and extends from single‐cell organisms to humans. The degree to which regenerative ability is distributed across different taxa, however, is harder to ascertain given the potential for phylogenetic constraint or inertia, and adaptive processes to shape this pattern. Here, we examine the phylogenetic history of regeneration in two groups where the trait has been well‐studied: arthropods and reptiles. Because autotomy is often present alongside regeneration in these groups, we performed ancestral state reconstructions for both traits to more precisely assess the timing of their origins and the degree to which these traits coevolve. Using an ancestral trait reconstruction, we find that autotomy and regeneration were present at the base of the arthropod and reptile trees. We also find that when autotomy is lost it does not re‐evolve easily. Lastly, we find that the distribution of regeneration is intimately connected to autotomy with the association being stronger in reptiles than in arthropods. Although these patterns suggest that decoupling autotomy and regeneration at a broad phylogenetic scale may be difficult, the available data provides useful insight into their entanglement. Ultimately, our reconstructions provide the important groundwork to explore how selection may have played a role during the loss of regeneration in specific lineages.
Long noncoding RNA ARSR is associated with a poor prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Li Ting , Jin Xuezhu , Dong Jingrong , Deng Houbo
Published: June 2020

Background

As one of the leading cancer‐related mortalities worldwide, colorectal cancer (CRC) shows resistance to chemotherapy mainly because of drug resistance. Existing evidence has revealed that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are related to tumorigenesis and chemoresistance scenarios. However, the mechanism by which lncRNA induces chemoresistance and the postoperative prognosis of CRC both remain unclear.

Methods

The expression of a lncRNA named lncARSR in CRC tissue was tested, and its association with clinical and pathological features was analyzed. Gain‐of‐function and loss‐of‐function assays were conducted to investigate the role of lncARSR in vivo and in vitro.

Results

Functional analysis showed that overexpressing lncARSR increased oxaliplatin (OXA) resistance of CRC cells in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, lncARSR conferred chemoresistance to CRC cells. Silencing lncARSR decreased cell viability and promoted cell apoptosis after OXA treatment, whereas overexpression of lncARSR increased cell viability and reduced cell apoptosis after OXA treatment. In addition, lncARSR overexpression induced the tumor formation capacity of colorectal cancer cells.

Conclusions

The results obtained in the present study show that up‐regulation of lncARSR promoted OXA resistance in CRC. Our results also imply that lncARSR may be a candidate marker for CRC chemoresistance.