bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative differences between common occupational health risk assessment models
Authors: Xu Qiuliang , Yu Fang , Li Fei , Zhou Hua , Zheng Kang , Zhang Meibian
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Methodological studies on occupational health risk assessment (OHRA) models are rarely reported. This study aimed to explore the quantitative differences between common OHRA models.

Methods

The risk ratios (RRs) in five typical industries (leather, wooden furniture manufacturing, printing and dyeing, printing, and garment manufacturing) were investigated using six OHRA models, namely the models from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Singapore, the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), Australia, Romania, and International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM). The consistency, correlation, and reliability were evaluated for quantitative differences between the models.

Results

The order of the RRs obtained from the EPA, Singaporean, and COSHH models in the five industries was consistent with the order of the inherent risk levels in those industries. The EPA and Singaporean models could effectively distinguish the inherent risk levels of risk factors like xylene and ethyl acetate. The order of RR between the six models was: RR EPA > RR COSHH > RR Singaporean > RR Australian > RR Romanian and RR ICMM (P < .05). The EPA model had the weakest correlations with other models. The Singaporean model had positive correlations in RRs with the other models (P<0.01).

Conclusions

The EPA and Singaporean models exhibited good reliability since they could distinguish the inherent risk of the industry or risk factor and tended to get higher risk levels. The EPA model was independent and the Singaporean model had a good correlation with other models. More studies on OHRA methodology are needed.
Subjective employment perspective among older workers with and without migrant background in Germany—Results of the lidA cohort study
Authors: Schröder Chloé Charlotte , Hasselhorn Hans Martin , du Prel Jean-Baptist , Breckenkamp Jürgen
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the subjective employment perspective in higher working age for different employee groups with migrant background (EMB) and without (non-EMB), meaning willing, being able, and planning to work until the individual state pension age (iSPA).

Methods

A representative sample of socially insured employees born in 1959 or 1965 was surveyed in 2011, 2014, and 2018 with computer-assisted personal interviews. The current cross-sectional analysis is based on data from the third study wave (n = 3286) of the lidA cohort study. EMB were differentiated via generation (first generation, G1, vs second generation, G2) or nationality (German vs foreign). Applying bivariate statistics with the tests of independence and block-wise logistic regressions, group differences were investigated. Sex, age, educational level, net household income, health, and work factors were considered as covariates.

Results

When comparing subgroups of EMB, significant differences appeared in bivariate analyses for willing and planning to work. G1 were to a higher degree planning to work longer than G2 and those with foreign nationality were more willing and planning than those with German nationality. Multivariate analyses revealed significant differences of G1 and non-EMB for planning, being significant in the fully adjusted model, but not for willing.

Conclusion

The findings underline the need for differentiation of migrant groups in social research and policy. When it comes to extended working lives, the first-generation migrant group, as well as foreigners may constitute risk groups and require increased attention from a work, health, and economic point of view.
CircFNDC3B sequestrates miR‐937‐5p to derepress TIMP3 and inhibit colorectal cancer progression
Authors: Zeng Wei , Liu Yi , Li Wen‐Ting , Li Yi , Zhu Jin‐Feng
Published: September 2020

Circular RNA (circRNA) are single‐stranded RNA with covalently closed 3′ and 5′ ends, with many recognized to be involved in human diseases as gene regulators, typically by interacting with other RNA. CircFNDC3B is a circRNA formed by back‐splicing of exons 5 and 6 of the FNDC3B gene. CircFNDC3B was recently implicated in renal carcinoma, gastric and bladder cancer. However, the expression levels of circFNDC3B and its role in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain unclear. Expression of circFNDC3B and TIMP3 levels in CRC tissues and cell lines were found to be low, whereas microRNA (miR)‐937‐5p expression was high in CRC. MicroRNA‐937‐5p downregulated TIMP3, thereby promoting tumor cell proliferation, invasion, migration and angiogenesis. Moreover, CircFNDC3B was shown to bind to miR‐937‐5p. CircFNDC3B and circFNDC3B‐enriched exosomes inhibited tumorigenic, metastatic and angiogenic properties of CRC, and miR‐937‐5p overexpression or TIMP3 knockdown could reverse these effects. In vivo CRC tumor growth, angiogenesis and liver metastasis were suppressed by circFNDC3B overexpression, circFNDC3B‐enriched exosomes or miR‐937‐5p knockdown. In conclusion, our work reports a tumor‐suppressing role for the circFNDC3B–miR‐97‐5p–TIMP3 pathway and suggests that circFNDC3B‐enriched exosomes can inhibit angiogenesis and CRC progression.
Defining the dimensions of circulating tumor cells in a large series of breast, prostate, colon, and bladder cancer patients
Authors: Mendelaar Pauline A. J. , Kraan Jaco , Van Mai , Zeune Leonie L. , Terstappen Leon W. M. M. , Oomen‐de Hoop Esther , Martens John W. M. , Sleijfer Stefan
Published: September 2020

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the blood of cancer patients are of high clinical relevance. Since detection and isolation of CTCs often rely on cell dimensions, knowledge of their size is key. We analyzed the median CTC size in a large cohort of breast (BC), prostate (PC), colorectal (CRC), and bladder (BLC) cancer patients. Images of patient‐derived CTCs acquired on cartridges of the FDA‐cleared CellSearch® method were retrospectively collected and automatically re‐analyzed using the accept software package. The median CTC diameter (μm) was computed per tumor type. The size differences between the different tumor types and references (tumor cell lines and leukocytes) were nonparametrically tested. A total of 1962 CellSearch® cartridges containing 71 612 CTCs were included. In BC, the median computed diameter (CD) of patient‐derived CTCs was 12.4 μm vs 18.4 μm for cultured cell line cells. For PC, CDs were 10.3 μm for CTCs vs 20.7 μm for cultured cell line cells. CDs for CTCs of CRC and BLC were 7.5 μm and 8.6 μm, respectively. Finally, leukocytes were 9.4 μm. CTC size differed statistically significantly between the four tumor types and between CTCs and the reference data. CTC size differences between tumor types are striking and CTCs are smaller than cell line tumor cells, whose size is often used as reference when developing CTC analysis methods. Based on our data, we suggest that the size of CTCs matters and should be kept in mind when designing and optimizing size‐based isolation methods.
Dominant mutations in ITPR3 cause Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease
Authors: Rönkkö Julius , Molchanova Svetlana , Revah‐Politi Anya , Pereira Elaine M. , Auranen Mari , Toppila Jussi , Kvist Jouni , Ludwig Anastasia , Neumann Julika , Bultynck Geert , Humblet‐Baron Stéphanie , Liston Adrian , Paetau Anders , Rivera Claudio , Harms Matthew B. , Tyynismaa Henna , Ylikallio Emil
Published: September 2020

Objective

ITPR3, encoding inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptor type 3, was previously reported as a potential candidate disease gene for Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth neuropathy. Here, we present genetic and functional evidence that ITPR3 is a Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease gene.

Methods

Whole‐exome sequencing of four affected individuals in an autosomal dominant family and one individual who was the only affected individual in his family was used to identify disease‐causing variants. Skin fibroblasts from two individuals of the autosomal dominant family were analyzed functionally by western blotting, quantitative reverse transcription PCR, and Ca2+ imaging.

Results

Affected individuals in the autosomal dominant family had onset of symmetrical neuropathy with demyelinating and secondary axonal features at around age 30, showing signs of gradual progression with severe distal leg weakness and hand involvement in the proband at age 64. Exome sequencing identified a heterozygous ITPR3 p.Val615Met variant segregating with the disease. The individual who was the only affected in his family had disease onset at age 4 with demyelinating neuropathy. His condition was progressive, leading to severe muscle atrophy below knees and atrophy of proximal leg and hand muscles by age 16. Trio exome sequencing identified a de novo ITPR3 variant p.Arg2524Cys. Altered Ca2+‐transients in p.Val615Met patient fibroblasts suggested that the variant has a dominant‐negative effect on inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptor type 3 function.

Interpretation

Together with two previously identified variants, our report adds further evidence that ITPR3 is a disease‐causing gene for CMT and indicates altered Ca2+ homeostasis in disease pathogenesis.
Discordant Alzheimer's neurodegenerative biomarkers and their clinical outcomes
Authors: Guo Yu , Li Hong‐Qi , Tan Lin , Chen Shi‐Dong , Yang Yu‐Xiang , Ma Ya‐Hui , Zuo Chuan‐Tao , Dong Qiang , Tan Lan , Yu Jin‐Tai ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: September 2020

Objective

In the 2018 ATN framework, Alzheimer's neurodegenerative biomarkers comprised cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) total tau, 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography, and brain atrophy. We aimed to assess the clinical outcomes of having discordant Alzheimer's neurodegenerative biomarkers.

Methods

A total of 721 non‐demented individuals from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative database were included and then further categorized into concordant‐negative, discordant, and concordant‐positive groups. Demographic distributions of the groups were compared. Longitudinal changes in clinical outcomes and risk of conversion were assessed using linear mixed‐effects models and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models, respectively.

Results

Discordant group was intermediate to concordant‐negative and concordant‐positive groups in terms of APOE ε4 positivity, CSF amyloid‐beta, and phosphorylated tau. Compared with concordant‐negative group, discordant group deteriorated faster in cognitive scores (Mini‐Mental State Examination, the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale‐Sum of Boxes, and the Functional Activities Questionnaire) and demonstrated greater rates of atrophy in brain structures (hippocampus, entorhinal cortex, and whole brain), and concordant‐positive group performed worse over time than discordant group. Moreover, the risk of cognitive decline increased from concordant‐negative to discordant to concordant‐positive. The results from longitudinal analyses were validated in A+T+, cognitively normal, and mild cognitive impairment individuals, and were also validated by applying different cutoffs and neurodegenerative biomarkers.

Interpretation

Discordant neurodegenerative status denotes a stage of cognitive function which is intermediate between concordant‐negative and concordant‐positive. Identification of discordant cases would provide insights into intervention and new therapy approaches, particularly in A+T+ individuals. Moreover, this work may be a complement to the ATN scheme.
Associations of sleep characteristics with alpha‐synuclein in cerebrospinal fluid in older adults
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Tong , Liu Feng‐Tao , Bi Yan‐Lin , Shen Xue‐Ning , Xu Wei , Wang Jian , Tan Lan , Yu Jin‐Tai
Published: September 2020

Objective

Sleep disorders as a preclinical symptom of synucleinopathies become more prevalent in older adults. Synucleinopathies might be caused by the abnormal aggregation of alpha‐synuclein in the brain, which was indicated by alpha‐synuclein levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). We aimed to investigate associations of sleep characteristics with CSF alpha‐synuclein in older adults.

Methods

Our study recruited 536 cognitively intact individuals (aged between 40 and 90 years old) from the Chinese Alzheimer’s Biomarker and Lifestyle study. Sleep behaviors were assessed by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and total alpha‐synuclein in CSF was measured by enzyme‐linked immune‐sorbent assay. We used multiple linear and non‐linear regression models for research.

Results

Significant non‐linear associations of CSF alpha‐synuclein with sleep time and duration were revealed. Individuals who went to bed and fell asleep too early or late tended to have lower CSF alpha‐synuclein (reflection point for time to bed and fall asleep were 10:26 p.m. and 10:40 p.m.). Lower CSF alpha‐synuclein was also observed in individuals with either excessive or insufficient sleep duration (reflection point: 7.24 hours). Besides, overall poor sleep quality (β = −0.0621; P = 0.0242), longer sleep latency (β = −0.0415; P = 0.0174) and lower sleep efficiency (β = 0.0036; P = 0.0017) showed linear associations with lower CSF alpha‐synuclein. Sleep disturbances and daytime dysfunction were not significantly associated with CSF alpha‐synuclein.

Interpretation

Poor sleep was associated with lower levels of CSF alpha‐synuclein in older adults, which may provide new insight into the prevention of synucleinopathies.
Effects of Solidification Rates on Microstructure Refinement and Elemental Distribution of Ti44Al6Nb1.0Cr2.0V0.1B0.15Y Alloy by Rapid Solidification
Authors: Fang Hongze , Liu Yanhang , Wang Shu , Chen Ruirun , Cui Hongzhi , Yan Yongda , Guo Jingjie
Published: September 2020

In order to refine microstructure and improve mechanical properties, size of lamellar colonies and reinforced phase, distribution of elements, and microhardness with different solidification rates were studied by rapid solidification. Results show that microstructure morphology changes from equiaxed grain to granulated dendrites after rapid solidification. When speed of revolution increases, size of lamellar colonies decreases from 53.5 to 16.9 μm and length of TiB particles decreases from 60.1 to 20.4 μm. The B2 phase exists in lamellar colonies and at the boundary of lamellar colonies before rapid solidification and forms in lamellar colonies after rapid solidification. An increase in solidification rate increases degree of supercooling to increase number of nucleation particles which form before solidification front. The β phase incompletely transforms to the α phase and is retained in α phase after rapid solidification. The microstructure does not have enough time to transform completely and high‐temperature microstructure is retained at a higher cooling rate. Test results show that microhardness increases from 453 to 562 HV when speed of revolution increases from 0 to 800 rpm. Improvement of microhardness results from solution strengthening of Nb, Cr, and V, grain refinement strengthening and reduction of the reinforced phase of TiB.
Phase Transformation of Nickel‐Rich Phases in Al–Si Alloy Under Thermal Exposure
Authors: Guo Yongchun , Gao Xusen , Xia Feng , Ma Zhijun , Yang Wei , Yang Zhong , Li Jianping
Published: September 2020

Al–11.5Si–xCu–yNi–Mg alloys with different Cu and Ni contents are prepared. The microstructure of the alloy and phase transformation of Al3CuNi are investigated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscope, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy‐dispersive spectrometry (EDS). The nickel‐rich phase in Al–11.5Si–3Cu–2Ni–Mg alloy is only Al3CuNi phase. With the increase in Cu and Ni content, the Al3Ni phase and the Al7Cu4Ni phase appear, respectively. The alloys are subjected to thermal exposure treatment at 350 and 425 °C, respectively, and hardness tests are performed on alloys of different exposure times. The Brinell hardness of the alloy decreases with the extension of thermal exposure time. It is found that the microstructure of nickel‐rich phases dissolved and granulated after thermal exposure, and the decrease in the Brinell hardness of the alloy is related to the transformation of nickel‐rich phases. The changes of Al3CuNi during thermal exposure are studied by means of in situ follow‐up observation. A large number of serrated new phases are deposited on the smooth Al3CuNi phase interface during thermal exposure. In addition, the Al3CuNi phase break and granulates with time. TEM analysis shows that the new jagged phase formed at the interface of Al3CuNi phase is Al7Cu4Ni phase.
Organocatalytic Enantioselective [3+2] Cycloaddition of Azomethine Ylides with 2,4‐Dienals: Construction of Remote Stereogenic Centers via 1,6‐Addition Reaction
Authors: Jiang Hui , Zhou Leijie , Mao Biming , Yuan Chunhao , Wang Wei , Wu Yongjun , Zhang Cheng , Guo Hongchao
Published: September 2020

A regio‐ and stereoselective [3+2] cycloaddition of phthalazinium dicyanomethanides with 2,4‐dienals was achieved with the use of a commercially available MacMillan's calalyst via LUMO‐lowering activation. The reaction proceeds through 1,6‐additon to linear 2,4‐dienals with remote control over stereochemistry, affording the cycloadducts having three stereogenic centers.

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Recent Advances in Squaramide‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Mannich Reactions
Authors: Hou Xi‐Qiang , Du Da‐Ming
Published: September 2020

Bifunctional squaramides as a branch of organo‐catalysts showed powerful strategies in the art of asymmetric synthesis, and they have been proved to be highly efficient and versatile catalysts for constructing complex molecular structures and chiral biologically active compounds. In this review, we summarized recent advances in bifunctional squaramide‐catalyzed asymmetric Mannich reactions.

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Semi‐Synthetic Sialic Acid Probes for Challenging the Substrate Promiscuity of Enzymes in the Sialoconjugation Pathway
Authors: Mertsch Alexander , Poschenrieder Silvan , Fessner Wolf‐Dieter
Published: September 2020

A series of unusual sialic acid analogs were prepared using a semi‐synthetic strategy. Truncation of natural N‐acetylneuraminic acid was followed by diastereoselective carbon backbone reconstruction using Barbier‐type carboligations as well as different functional group interconversions, which provided access to a variety of functional motifs in the terminal carbon backbone, including examples of saturated and unsaturated, linear and branched alkyl chains, partially deoxygenated sialic acids, sialic diacids and a first truncated legionaminic acid analog. The synthetic sialic acid probes were studied for nucleotide activation by the CMP‐sialic acid synthetase from Neisseria meningitidis using a universal pH‐shift assay for kinetic analysis. One‐pot enzymatic nucleotide activation and sialyltransfer to lactose was performed using a selection of five probes together with an engineered α2,3‐sialyltransferase from Photobacterium phosphoreum to furnish five new‐to‐nature analogs of the GM3 trisaccharide, which were finally utilized to test the substrate tolerance of two bacterial sialidases. The obtained set of sialic acid analogs and neo‐sialocojugates provides interesting opportunities for further glycobiology studies.

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Practically Viable Approach to Efficient and Reliable Semitransparent Flexible Organic Solar Cells: Face‐Seal Encapsulation Embedded with Tailored Color‐Control Functionality
Authors: Lee Hyunwoo , Sharma Ramakant , Ha Jaewon , Lee Hyeonwoo , Yoo Seunghyup
Published: September 2020

The success of semitransparent organic solar cells (ST‐OSCs) depends heavily on whether they can achieve high efficiency while meeting the conditions for high transmittance or target apparent color. Herein, a device architecture for ST‐OSCs that achieves both enhanced efficiency and controlled apparent color or high transmittance is proposed, while providing protection from ambient air. In the proposed scheme, cells are encapsulated by a barrier foil embedded with a color‐controlling dielectric mirror (CCDM) structure, which is tailored for selective reflection at the targeted spectral band and transmission in the other spectral band. This approach effectively enhances the photocurrent with little compromise in transmittance, yet it allows control of the color of ST‐OSCs. Preparing these CCDMs independently of cell fabrication, the best material composition is utilized without damaging the underlying layers. With the proposed approach, ST‐OSCs with an efficiency of 8.30% and luminous transmittance over 30.4% are demonstrated. Furthermore, by setting ST‐OSCs in the neutral plane utilizing face‐seal encapsulation geometry, it is shown that these devices can maintain 98% of the initial efficiency even after 2000 cycles of repeated bending at a strain of 0.5%. Moreover, they can maintain initial efficiency very well in a highly damp condition for 120 h.
High production of glutathione by in vitro enzymatic cascade after thermostability enhancement
Authors: Cui Xiangwei , Li Zhimin
Published: September 2020

The cell free system has been paid more attention due to its potential of facilitating efficient catalysis of multistep reactions. In this study, an efficient enzymatic cascade of glutathione (GSH) production was developed through the evolution of bifunctional glutathione synthetase (GshF), coupled with polyphosphate kinase (PPK). First, the stability and activity of GshF were enhanced by loop interchange and site‐directed mutagenesis. As a result, the GshF half‐value period increased 163.32‐fold, and its activity raised 18.16%. PPK from Jhaorihella thermophile (PPKJT) was characterized and used to regenerate ATP in the GSH synthesis, with hexametaphosphate (PolyP (6)) as the phosphate donor. After the process optimization, 99.92 mM GSH and 7.61 mM oxidized glutathione (GSSG) were produced within 2 hr. The molar yield was 0.96 mol/mol based on the amino acid added, while the productivities of GSH achieved 49.95 mM/hr, which were the highest yield and productivity ever reported about GSH synthesis.
Experimental measurement of bubble breakup in a jet bubbling reactor
Authors: Shuai Yun , Wang Xinyan , Huang Zhengliang , Sun Jingyuan , Yang Yao , Liao Zuwei , Wang Jingdai , Yang Yongrong
Published: September 2020

The bubble breakups in a jet bubbling reactor are captured using a high‐speed camera and the velocity field is measured by particle image velocimetry. Two typical breakup patterns, jet breakup and jet‐vortex breakup are observed. The breakup time interval of the jet‐vortex breakup is two orders of magnitude higher than the jet breakup. The probability of the jet‐vortex breakup and the jet breakup accounting in the total breakup events increases and decreases with the jet velocity and the mother bubble size, respectively. The bubble breakup region increases with the jet velocity. The bubble breakup frequency increases with the turbulent dissipation rate and the mother bubble size. The average number of daughter bubbles increases with the Weber number. An L‐shaped daughter bubble size distribution is observed. Empirical correlations are established for the bubble breakup frequency, the average number of daughter bubbles and daughter bubble size distribution, and fitted well with the experimental results.
Blepharophimosis‐ptosis‐intellectual disability syndrome: A report of nine Egyptian patients with further expansion of phenotypic and mutational spectrum
Authors: Zaki Maha S. , Otaify Ghada A. , Ismail Samira , Issa Mahmoud Y. , El‐Ruby Mona O. , Sadek Abdelrahim A. , Ashaat Engy A. , El Saeidi Sonia A. , Aglan Mona S. , Temtamy Samia , Abdel‐Hamid Mohamed S.
Published: September 2020

Blepharophimosis‐ptosis‐intellectual disability syndrome (BPID) is an extremely rare recognizable blepharophimosis intellectual disability syndrome (BID). It is caused by biallelic variants in the UBE3B gene with only 24 patients described worldwide. Herein, we report on the clinical, brain imaging and molecular findings of additional nine patients from six unrelated Egyptian families. Patients presented with the characteristic features of the syndrome including blepharophimosis, ptosis, upslanted palpebral fissures with epicanthic folds, hypertelorism, long philtrum, high arched palate, micrognathia, microcephaly, and intellectual disability. Other findings were congenital heart disease (5 patients), talipes equinovarus (5 patients), genital anomalies (5 patients), autistic features (4 patients), cleft palate (2 patients), hearing loss (2 patients), and renal anomalies (1 patient). New or rarely reported findings were spherophakia, subvalvular aortic stenosis and hypoplastic nails, and terminal phalanges. Brain MRI, performed for 7 patients, showed hypogenesis or almost complete agenesis of corpus callosum. Genetic studies revealed five novel homozygous UBE3B variants. Of them, the c.1076G>A (p.W359*) was found in three patients from two unrelated families who shared similar haplotype suggesting a likely founder effect. Our results strengthen the clinical, dysmorphic, and brain imaging characteristic of this unique type of BID and extend the mutational spectrum associated with the disorder.
46,XY DSD and limb abnormalities in a female with a de novo LHX9 missense mutation
Authors: Kunitomo Mia , Khokhar Aditi , Kresge Christina , Edobor‐Osula Folorunsho , Pletcher Beth A.
Published: September 2020

Differences in sex development (DSD) are a group of rare conditions involving genes, hormones and reproductive organs, including genitals. Although these disorders are common, information about the molecular causes remain limited. Many genes have been identified in association with DSD but in many cases the causative gene could not be identified. The Lhx9 gene has been studied in mice and birds, and biallelic mutations in this gene have been found to cause 46,XY DSD and limb abnormalities. So far two variants of LHX9 have been identified in 46,XY individuals with testicular regression, micropenis and hypospadias. We report a de novo heterozygous missense variant in LHX9 in a girl with 46,XY DSD and finger and toe abnormalities. It was previously predicted that a mutation in LHX9 would not cause extragenital anomalies in light of prior animal studies, but our report adds to the limited knowledge of the phenotype observed in humans with a variant in LHX9. To the best of our knowledge this is the first reported case with this combination of abnormalities.
Clinical characteristics and prediction of the asymptomatic phenotype of pneumatosis intestinalis in critically ill patients: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Sato Takeaki , Ohbe Hiroyuki , Fujita Motoo , Kushimoto Shigeki
Published: September 2020

Aim

The differences in clinical characteristics between benign asymptomatic and symptomatic pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) remain unknown. This study aimed to reveal the clinical characteristics of PI in critically ill patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study undertaken between 2013 and 2017 in a single facility. Patients with PI were enrolled. Pneumatosis intestinalis was diagnosed using computed tomography, and clinical data were collected. Pathologic PI refers to PI with bowel ischemia. Asymptomatic PI refers to PI with a benign etiology.

Results

There were 17 patients with pathologic PI and 31 with asymptomatic PI. Pathologic PI was detected at day 4 of hospital stay, and asymptomatic PI was detected at day 30 of hospital stay (P < 0.01). The symptoms that were different between pathologic and asymptomatic PI were acute diarrhea (18% and 65%, P = 0.01), C‐reactive protein level elevation (9.9 and 2.1 mg/dL, P = 0.01), and systemic inflammatory reaction syndrome (100% and 13%, P < 0.01). Computed tomography findings showed a difference in the occurrence of ascites collection (94% versus 23%, P < 0.01) and PI of the ascending colon (47% versus 80%, P = 0.02). Hospital mortality of pathologic PI was 88%, whereas all patients with benign PI survived. The positive likelihood ratio of acute diarrhea with PI of the ascending colon to diagnose benign PI was 7.33 (1.11–48.5).

Conclusions

Pneumatosis intestinalis of the ascending colon that occurs in the post‐intensive care phase with a poor inflammatory reaction, acute diarrhea, and no ascites collection could be benign. In other cases, bowel ischemia should be promptly ruled out.
Saving patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest using Impella: three case reports
Authors: Aida Kenta , Azuma Kazunari , Ishii Yuri , Suzuki Shoji , Oda Jun
Published: September 2020

Background

The efficacy of Impella for patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest is unknown. We report the cases of three patients with cardiogenic out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest who received hemodynamic support with Impella.

Case presentation

Two patients, Case 2 and Case 3, received concomitant treatment with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and Impella. Percutaneous coronary intervention was undertaken in two patients, Case 1 and Case 3. Two patients, Case 1 and Case 3, showed favorable neurological function with the Glasgow–Pittsburgh cerebral performance and overall performance categories score of 1 at discharge.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that Impella is effective in patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest. Further studies are required to understand the use of Impella for patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest.
Late‐onset ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency: a rare cause of recurrent abnormal behavior in adults
Authors: Hidaka Masaoki , Higashi Eiji , Uwatoko Takeshi , Uwatoko Kiku , Urashima Mayumi , Takashima Hiroshi , Watanabe Yoriko , Kitazono Takanari , Sugimori Hiroshi
Published: September 2020

Background

Ornithine transcarbamylase is an enzyme of the urea cycle, which produces urea from ammonia. Although ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency mainly occurs as a severe neonatal‐onset disease, a late‐onset form that could become symptomatic from infancy to adulthood is also known.

Case presentation

A 34‐year‐old man presented with sudden onset of abnormal behavior, lethargy, and hyperammonemia (108 µmol/L). He had recently increased daily protein intake, which suggested urea cycle disorder. After initiation of protein‐restricted diet and treatment with arginine and sodium phenylbutyrate, his symptoms resolved, along with a decrease in the ammonia level. An R40H(c.119G > A) mutation in the OTC gene was identified.

Conclusion

Awareness of adult onset ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency in a patient with acute psychiatric symptoms due to hyperammonemia is important.
Copper‐Catalyzed Enantioconvergent Cross‐Coupling of Racemic Alkyl Bromides with Azole C(sp2)−H Bonds
Authors: Su Xiao‐Long , Ye Liu , Chen Ji‐Jun , Liu Xiao‐Dong , Jiang Sheng‐Peng , Wang Fu‐Li , Liu Lin , Yang Chang‐Jiang , Chang Xiao‐Yong , Li Zhong‐Liang , Gu Qiang‐Shuai , Liu Xin‐Yuan
Published: September 2020

The development of enantioconvergent cross‐coupling of racemic alkyl halides directly with heteroarene C(sp2)−H bonds has been impeded by the use of a base at elevated temperature that leads to racemization. We herein report a copper(I)/cinchona‐alkaloid‐derived N,N,P‐ligand catalytic system that enables oxidative addition with racemic alkyl bromides under mild conditions. Thus, coupling with azole C(sp2)−H bonds has been achieved in high enantioselectivity, affording a number of potentially useful α‐chiral alkylated azoles, such as 1,3,4‐oxadiazoles, oxazoles, and benzo[d]oxazoles as well as 1,3,4‐triazoles, for drug discovery. Mechanistic experiments indicated facile deprotonation of an azole C(sp2)−H bond and the involvement of alkyl radical species under the reaction conditions.
Synthesis and application of thermal latent initiators of epoxy resins: A review
Authors: Chen Jie , Chu Na , Zhao Miao , Jin Fan‐Long , Park Soo‐Jin
Published: September 2020

Epoxy resin, which is extensively used in civil and industrial applications, shows excellent comprehensive performance, especially as a polymer matrix used in fiber‐reinforced composites. A thermal latent initiator, used as an epoxy curing agent, has high storage stability and is widely applied in the preparation of epoxy‐based blends and fiber‐reinforced composites. In this review, the basic properties of epoxy resins and commonly used curing agents are discussed while progress on the synthesis of thermal latent initiators is reviewed in detail. Moreover, the curing mechanisms, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of epoxy resins with thermal latent initiators are also discussed.
Preparation, characterization, and antimicrobial activity of ferrocene‐containing polymeric materials
Authors: Zampino Daniela , Pedotti Sonia , Ussia Martina , Dattilo Sandro , Mancuso Monique , Zaccone Renata , Patti Angela
Published: September 2020

Ferrocenyl(benzyl) imidazole (FcIm) and two related methyl‐imidazolium salts (FcMIm+I– and FcMIm+PF6–) were synthesized for their incorporation into plasticized PVC by solvent casting technique. The obtained materials were investigated for their thermal stability and, compared to pure polymer, films containing ionic ferrocene derivatives in 0.5% w/w loading were found slightly more stable. The pure ferrocene compounds showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus epidermis, but not against Escherichia coli, with a maximum for FcMIm+PF6– salt. After incorporation into PVC polymer, antibacterial activity against S. epidermis was observed (by disk diffusion test) only for PVC/FcMIm+PF6– (5% w/w) film, from which a release of 14.6% of the ferrocenilimidazolium cation in aqueous medium was measured after 24 hr.
Textile with a hydrogel and iron oxide nanoparticles for wastewater treatment after reactive dyeing
Authors: Atanasova Daniela , Staneva Desislava , Grabchev Ivo
Published: September 2020

In this work, we describe for the first time the synthesis of a hydrogel with iron oxide nanoparticles, uniformly distributed in its structure on a polyamide fabric by surface initiated photopolymerization. The type of outgoing iron ions Fe(II), Fe(III), and the combination between them influences the properties of the iron oxide particles and the obtained composite materials (PAF2, PAF3, and PAF32). All composite materials have been investigated as catalysts in heterogeneous Fenton process for treating real industrial wastewater after dyeing of cotton fabric with reactive dye Drimarene K‐7B. Different conditions on the degradation of this dye have been investigated. The best result for discoloration has been obtained with PAF2 at concentration 9.4 g L−1 and pH = 2.2 in the presence of H2O2 (93.3 mmol L−1, where 78% of dye was degraded for 24 h and 90.5%‐for 48 h. The high salinity of wastewaters, typical for dyeing with reactive dyes favors discoloration, while surface‐active agents hinder the process. The obtained material is reusable and is more effective in less polluted water solutions. It has been found that the composite material can be used repeatedly.
Introducing Children to Anatomy: “Getting to Know Our Bodies: The First Step Toward Becoming a Scientist”
Authors: Ortug Gursel , Midi Ahmet , Elbizim Deniz Sude , Karaot Hasan , Yılık Elif , Uluışık Işılsu Ezgi
Published: September 2020

Museums are used in every discipline to collect, classify, and present information for scientific purposes. They also serve as an effective educational medium. Since the establishment of a boutique anatomy museum at Bahçeşehir University, lectures, conferences, and seminars have been organized there over the past four years on the history of human anatomy and the human body. In order to raise awareness about the need to make anatomy accessible to kindergarteners and school‐aged children, rather than exclusively to undergraduate students, activities that are suited to a wide range of ages have been developed at the museum and at the anatomy laboratory. Four different sessions were conducted, including activities such as lectures using plastic models as props, shaping organs out of playdough, anatomy puzzles, watching cartoons, and examining specimens through a microscope. Healthy and pathologic anatomies were chosen to match daily themes. Among the kindergarteners and elementary school children, no grading was done, nor was any questionnaire administered; however, a survey was administered in the 10–12 age group (N = 64). According to the students' written feedback, 93.75% said they “are happy with microscope activities” while 84.37% said they “had so much fun” participating in the playdough activities. However, 18.75% criticized the activities, saying they “could have been longer.” In conclusion, it is believed that these “getting to know our bodies” activities that were hosted in the anatomy museum, including conferences, workshops, material preparation, and instructional movies, may play an important role in the development of a healthy society.
Facile synthesis of Mn‐Ce/N‐TiO2 composite for CO2 hydrogenation into methane and intensifying methane yield in biomethanation
Authors: Shivaraju Harikaranahalli Puttaiah , Anilkumar Kotermane Mallikarjunappa , Yashas Shivamurthy Ravindra , Harini Revanna , Shahmoradi Behzad , Maleki Afshin , McKay Gordon
Published: September 2020

The development of improved catalysts for the hydrogenation of CO2 into methane is a sustainable response to the energy crisis and environmental problems at the global level. Mn‐Ce/N‐TiO2 heterojunctions, comprising a Mn‐Ce concretion composite, were prepared using a sol–gel technique, and the photocatalytic hydrogenation of CO2 was studied using visible light as alternative driving energy. The photocatalyst composite was characterized, and synergistic effects on the photocatalytic hydrogenation of CO2 into methane were investigated. The characterization results confirmed that there was a considerable shifting of band‐gap energy towards the visible range with required properties, which enhances photocatalytic activities under natural sunlight. Carbon dioxide hydrogenation and its potential for conversion into methane was evaluated using a specially designed photoreactor and different light sources. The results show a CO2 hydrogenation rate of about 16.8% ±0.2 in a visible light‐assisted catalytic reduction process in 60 min. The irradiation time and light source were studied and significant impacts on CO2 hydrogenation were observed under a LED light source and with H2O vapor as a reducing agent (up to 23.4% ± 0.2). The effect of photocatalysis on the methane yield in the anaerobic digestion (biomethanation) process was evaluated and a potential methane yield of up to 13.5% within 24 h was observed. The results suggested promising and sustainable applications of the Mn‐Ce/N‐TiO2 heterojunction composite for CO2 hydrogenation and for the conversion of CO2 into fuel and methane in the biomethanation process. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Cigarette smoke induced neural tube defects by down‐regulating noggin expression
Authors: Yin Chuanhui , Cai Heng , Yang Dandan , Jian Yi , Zhang Jinfeng , Li Zhiwen , Wang Dong
Published: September 2020

Background

Maternal smoking or passive smoking during gestation increases the risk of congenital birth defects, including neural tube defects (NTDs). Cigarette smoke is a recognized teratogen that causes NTDs, although the mechanisms are not well understood.

Methods

An established model of passive smoking in pregnant golden hamsters was used to observe the effect of cigarette smoke on neural tube development using scanning electron microscopy. Level of noggin expression in placenta and neural tube was evaluated by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Our results indicated that cigarette smoke can cause the neural tube closure of the golden hamster embryo to be delayed or not closed. In normal placental tissues noggin protein and RNA levels were highly expressed, and the expression level in the term placenta was lower than in that of the first trimester or second trimester through analyzing the Human Protein Atlas and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Cigarette smoke can down‐regulate noggin expression in the placenta and promote cell apoptosis. We observed that noggin expression was reduced and BMP2 expression was increased by cigarette smoke.

Conclusions

Cigarette smoke may cause cell apoptosis and accelerate placenta maturation. Meanwhile, cigarette smoke may inhibit the development of the embryo, and lead to the formation of NTDs via downregulating the expression of noggin and dis‐inhibition of BMP2.
Impact of low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound on the growth of Schizochytrium sp. for omega‐3 production
Authors: Savchenko Oleksandra , Xing Jida , Burrell Mark , Burrell Robert , Chen Jie
Published: September 2020

Schizochytrium sp. is a microalga that is known for its high content of oils or lipids. It has a high percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the accumulated oil, especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA is an important additive for the human diet. Large‐scale production of Schizochytrium sp. can serve as an alternative source of DHA for humans as well as for fish feed, decreasing the burden on aqua systems. Therefore, research on improving the productivity of Schizochytrium attracts a lot of attention. We studied the potential of using low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) in the growth cycle of Schizochytrium sp. in shake flasks. Different intensities and treatment durations were tested. A positive effect of LIPUS on biomass accumulation was observed in the Schizochytrium sp. culture. Specifically, LIPUS stimulation at the ultrasound intensity of 400 mW/cm2 with 20 min per treatment 10 times a day with equal intervals of 2.4 h between the treatments was found to enhance the growth of Schizochytrium biomass most effectively (by up to 20%). Due to the nature of cell division in Schizochytrium sp. which occurs via zoospore formation, LIPUS stimulation was inefficient if applied continuously during all 5 days of the growth cycle. Using microscopy, we studied the interval between zoospore formation in the culture and selected the optimal LIPUS application days (Days 0–1 and Days 4–5 of the 5‐day growth cycle). Microscopic images have also shown that LIPUS stimulation enhances zoospore formation in Schizochytrium sp., leading to more active cell division in the culture. This study shows that LIPUS can serve as an additional tool for cost‐efficiency improvement in the large‐scale production of Schizochytrium as a sustainable and environmentally friendly source of omega‐3 (DHA).
Simultaneous determination of sacubitrilat and fimasartan in rat plasma by a triple quad liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method utilizing electrospray ionization in positive mode
Authors: Giri Poonam , Joshi Vipul , Giri Shyamkumar , Delvadia Prashant , Jain Mukul R.
Published: September 2020

An LC–tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the simultaneous quantitation of fimasartan and sacubitrilat using positive ion mode. The protein precipitation method was employed for the extraction of fimasartan, sacubitrilat and alprazolam (internal standard) from rat heparinized plasma. Baseline separation of the analytes was accomplished using an ACE‐5, C18 (4.6 × 50 mm) column and gradient elution of mobile phase A (5 mm ammonium formate and 0.1% formic acid in purified water) and B (acetonitrile:methanol, 80:20; v/v). All peaks of interest were eluted within a 5‐min runtime. The quantitation was achieved in the selected reaction monitoring mode. The developed method was validated as per US Food and Drug Administration guidelines and met the pre‐defined acceptance criteria. The method showed linearity from 5 to 10,000 ng/mL. The accuracy/precision of intra‐ and inter‐batch assays was 96.64%/2.05% to 109.17%/13.70% and 100.74%/3.76% to 106.39%/9.75% for fimasartan and 100.02%/1.49% to 113.80%/9.38% and 100.75%/2.31% to 108.40%/7.74% for sacubitrilat, respectively, in rat plasma. Fimasartan and sacubitrilat remained stable in rat plasma at different experimental conditions up to 21 days. The developed method was sensitive, selective and applied successfully to monitor plasma concentrations of fimasartan and sacubitrilat in an oral rat pharmacokinetic study.
Ultrasound‐microbubble cavitation facilitates adeno‐associated virus mediated cochlear gene transfection across the round‐window membrane
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Chen Zhengnong , Fan Liqiang , Landry Thomas , Brown Jeremy , Yu Zhiping , Yin Shankai , Wang Jian
Published: September 2020

The round window of the cochlea provides an ideal route for delivering medicines and gene therapy reagents that can cross the round window membrane (RWM) into the inner ear. Recombinant adeno‐associated viruses (rAAVs) have several advantages and are recommended as viral vectors for gene transfection. However, rAAVs cannot cross an intact RWM. Consequently, ultrasound‐mediated microbubble (USMB) cavitation is potentially useful, because it can sonoporate the cell membranes, and increase their permeability to large molecules. The use of USMB cavitation for drug delivery across the RWM has been tested in a few animal studies but has not been used in the context of AAV‐mediated gene transfection. The currently available large size of the ultrasound probe appears to be a limiting factor in the application of this method to the RWM. In this study, we used home‐made ultrasound probe with a decreased diameter to 1.5 mm, which enabled the easy positioning of the probe close to the RWM. In guinea pigs, we used this probe to determine that (1) USMB cavitation caused limited damage to the outer surface layer or the RWM, (2) an eGFP‐gene carrying rAAV could effectively pass the USMB‐treated RWM and reliably transfect cochlear cells, and (3) the hearing function of the cochlea remained unchanged. Our results suggest that USMB cavitation of the RWM is a good method for rAAV‐mediated cochlear gene transfection with clear potential for clinical translation. We additionally discuss several advantages of the small probe size.
On the use of native corn starch as a standard reference material for falling number
Authors: Delwiche Stephen R. , Liang Joshua
Published: September 2020

Background and objectives

Falling number (FN) is an analytical wheat quality procedure that uses viscometry to indirectly measure starch α‐amylase activity. National grain standards as well as sales contracts often contain specifications on this single‐number value. In recent years, an effort has been underway to define acceptable performance characteristics of the instruments used to measure falling number. Essential to this effort is the reliance on a standard reference material that has similar behavior of wheat, yet is more stable when stored over time. A recent study by one of the authors identified native corn starch among three other botanical starch sources as the most suitable candidate and defined the repeatability precision in the context of one laboratory possessing two identical instrument models. The current study was designed to evaluate corn starch in a network of eight instruments located throughout the continental United States, with the intention of producing guidelines for operational limits for statistical process control in a FN network.

Findings

Over a four‐month period, biweekly (fortnightly) FN measurements repeatedly collected on analytical grade native corn starch sourced from a common container resulted in 99th percentile estimates of the coefficient of variation of repeated measurements of 6.0% and 8.1% for two scenarios: five and three successive runs, respectfully. Estimated 1st and 99th percentile FN limits, expressed as percentages for a laboratory's mean value compared to other laboratories in a network, were −10% and 10% for both scenarios. Additionally, the time‐stable nature of corn starch as a reference standard was verified, with seven laboratories showing no statistically significant linear trend with time and the eighth showing a very weak trend.

Conclusions

Native unmodified corn starch may be used as a standard reference material in a network of FN instruments. The material is shelf stable at room temperature and produces intra‐ and inter‐laboratory precision equivalent to that of ground wheat meal, with the added benefit of being stable over time.

Significance and novelty

The findings may serve as a basis in establishing operational limits for statistical process control in FN networks.