bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medication‐Related Problems in Outpatients With Decompensated Cirrhosis: Opportunities for Harm Prevention
Authors: Hayward Kelly L. , Patel Preya J. , Valery Patricia C. , Horsfall Leigh U. , Li Catherine Y. , Wright Penny L. , Tallis Caroline J. , Stuart Katherine A. , Irvine Katharine M. , Cottrell W. Neil , Martin Jennifer H. , Powell Elizabeth E.
Published: March 2019

People with decompensated cirrhosis are often prescribed a complex regimen of therapeutic and prophylactic medications. In other chronic diseases, polypharmacy increases the risk of medication misadventure and medication‐related problems (MRPs), with associated increased morbidity, mortality, and health care costs. This study examined MRPs in a cohort of ambulatory patients with a history of decompensated cirrhosis who were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of a pharmacist‐led, patient‐oriented medication education intervention and assessed the association between MRPs and patient outcomes. A total of 375 MRPs were identified among 57 intervention patients (median, 6.0; interquartile range, 3.5‐8.0 per patient; maximum 17). Nonadherence (31.5%) and indication issues (29.1%) were the most prevalent MRP types. The risk of potential harm associated with MRPs was low in 18.9% of instances, medium in 33.1%, and high in 48.0%, as categorized by a clinician panel using a risk matrix tool. Patients had a greater incidence rate of high‐risk MRPs if they had a higher Child‐Pugh score (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09‐1.56); greater comorbidity burden (IRR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.02‐1.29); and were taking more medications (IRR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.04‐1.22). A total of 221 MRPs (58.9%) were resolved following pharmacist intervention. A greater proportion of high‐risk MRPs were resolved compared to those of low and medium risk (68.9% versus 49.7%; P < 0.001). During the 12‐month follow‐up period, intervention patients had a lower incidence rate of unplanned admissions compared to usual care (IRR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.30‐0.92). Conclusion: High‐risk MRPs are prevalent among adults with decompensated cirrhosis. Pharmacist intervention facilitated identification and resolution of high‐risk MRPs and was associated with reduced incidence rate of unplanned hospital admissions in this group.
Intensity‐curvature functional‐based filtering in image space and k‐space: Applications in magnetic resonance imaging of the human brain
Authors: Ciulla Carlo
Published: March 2019

This research examines the use of the intensity‐curvature functional (ICF) as filter in image space and in k‐space. The novelty of this study is three‐folded: (a) The evidence that the ICF calculated from three additional (International Journal of Imaging Systems and Technology, 28, 2018, 54) two‐dimensional model polynomial functions is an image space filter; (b) An additional (The use of the intensity‐curvature functional as k‐space filter: Applications in magnetic resonance imaging of the human brain, 2018) ICF‐based k‐space filtering technique applicable to two‐dimensional magnetic resonance images; (c) Results obtained through the calculation of the ICF of the trivariate cubic Lagrange model polynomial function (LGR3D). Although ICF‐based k‐space filtering delivers clear and well‐defined images, ICF‐based image space filtering remains superior when reconstructing vessel images in T2 MRI. The ICF of the LGR3D function provides sharp images too.
Numerical modelling of second‐grade fluid flow past a stretching sheet
Authors: Basha Hussain , Reddy G. Janardhana , Abhishek  , Killead Annapoorna , Pujari Vinaya , Kumar N. Naresh
Published: March 2019

The present numerical study reports the chemically reacting boundary layer flow of a magnetohydrodynamic second‐grade fluid past a stretching sheet under the influence of internal heat generation or absorption with work done due to deformation in the presence of a porous medium. To distinguish the non‐Newtonian behaviour of the second‐grade fluid with those of Newtonian fluids, a very popularly known second‐grade fluid flow model is used. The fourth order momentum equation with four appropriate boundary conditions along with temperature and concentration equations governing the second‐grade fluid flow are coupled and highly nonlinear in nature. Well‐established similarity transformations are efficiently used to reduce the dimensional flow equations into a set of nondimensional ordinary differential equations with the necessary conditions. The standard bvp4c MATLAB solver is effectively used to solve the fluid flow equations to get the numerical solutions in terms of velocity, temperature, and concentration fields. Numerical results are obtained for a different set of physical parameters and their behaviour is described through graphs and tables. The viscoelastic parameter enhances the velocity field whereas the magnetic and porous parameters suppress the velocity field in the flow region. The temperature field is magnified for increasing values of the heat source/sink parameter. However, from the present numerical study, it is noticed that the flow of heat occurs from sheet to the surrounding ambient fluid. Before concluding the considered problem, our results are validated with previous results and are found to be in good agreement.
Universalism and the recognition of group proceedings under the UNCITRAL Model Law in Montenegro
Authors: Savković Vladimir
Published: March 2019

Among the most topical insolvency issues in 2017 was the Croatian “Lex Agrokor”—a controversial “tailor‐made” law providing a unique restructuring opportunity for the largest Croatian conglomerate, the parent company of which was otherwise facing bankruptcy. Soon after the “extraordinary administration procedure” began, the appointed administrator started filing motions for the recognition of the alleged group insolvency as foreign insolvency proceedings in a number of neighbouring and other European countries, most of which have adopted the UNCITRAL Model Law on Cross‐Border Insolvency. It was an attempt to save the conglomerate's property from being seized in a disorderly fashion by various secured creditors, most noticeably, the largest Russian financial institution Sberbank, which contested these motions with varying success. This article, however, does not present an effort to comprehensively analyse the ongoing legal battle but rather adopts a broader approach to examining the Lex Agrokor to establish grounds for more general conclusions. More precisely, the purpose of this article is twofold. First, to offer strong arguments that, from the standpoint of typical insolvency legislation based on the Model Law, such as that of Montenegro, both the actual and future group proceedings initiated under the Lex Agrokor should fail to meet recognition requirements. Second, based on the preceding case study, to offer conclusions on how to further promote universal approach regarding group insolvencies by emphasizing exactly what the national laws regulating group insolvency should not feature so as to have the proceedings introduced therewith recognized in countries adopting the Model Law.
Synthetic Biology: The Chemist's Approach
Authors: Romesberg Floyd E.
Published: March 2019

In 1999, my lab at The Scripps Research Institute set out to expand the genetic alphabet by developing an unnatural base pair (UBP), with the goal of using it as the basis of semi‐synthetic organisms (SSOs) with expanded genetic codes. In 2014, we reported the successful creation of the first SSO that stored a UBP in its DNA, and then in 2017, we reported the first SSO that not only stored UBPs, but also retrieved the information they made available via transcription and translation to produce proteins containing non‐canonical amino acids (ncAAs). When I was asked by Ehud Keinan and Ashraf Brik to provide some personal opinions and reflections for The Israeli Journal of Chemistry's Rosarium Philosophorum on Chemical Biology, I thought it would be interesting to recount two challenges faced during this project that were critical for its success: the first illustrates the chemist's approach to synthetic biology, and the second illustrates how a knowledge of biology can facilitate it.
Changing the enzalutamide form from a capsule to a tablet improves the adherence of medicine intake: A case of a significant decrease in the prostate‐specific antigen level and improvement in radiographic findings
Authors: Kawahara Takashi , Ninomiya Sahoko , Miyoshi Yasuhide , Yao Masahiro , Uemura Hiroji
Published: March 2019

Introduction

In June 2018, enzalutamide began to be sold in a tablet form in Japan and Germany. We herein report the case of an improvement in prostate cancer progression due to changing enzalutamide dosage form from a capsule to a tablet.

Case presentation

A 76‐year‐old man was initially referred to our hospital for the further examination of his elevated prostate‐specific antigen level (3664.0 ng/mL). He had developed castration‐resistant prostate cancer 10 months after initial treatment. Treatment with enzalutamide (capsule form) was subsequently initiated. In June 2018, drug form of enzalutamide was changed from a capsule to a tablet. After switching to an enzalutamide tablet, his prostate‐specific antigen level decreased significantly from 493.0 to 26.5 ng/mL.

Conclusion

While the reason for this prostate‐specific antigen response is unclear, changing the enzalutamide form from a capsule to a tablet may have improved the adherence of drug intake and thereby resulted in castration‐resistant prostate cancer control.
Medication‐related readmission risk assessment in older adult patients
Authors: Leffler Michaela E. , Elliott David P. , Thompson Stephanie , Dean Leighton Scott
Published: March 2019

Purpose

To determine if medication information can be utilized to improve the predictive value of a hospital's readmission risk assessment tool, if the number of medications prescribed increases the risk of hospital readmission, and if specific medication classes are associated with hospital readmission. Additionally, the study aimed to determine the best source of medication information for input into the pool and to assess overall effectiveness of readmission prediction.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study conducted at a tertiary community academic medical center. Enrollees included patients age 65 or older admitted to the hospital over a 1 year period. Exclusion criteria included absent medication reconciliation information, readmission for scheduled or elective purpose, patient previously included in the study due to a prior admission, absent readmission risk score, or if discharged to a facility for end of life care. There were 7669 admissions included, and of these, 1020 (13.3%) were followed by a hospital readmission within 30 days.

Results

An increased number of prescribed medications upon patient discharge, as well as the use of scheduled oral corticosteroids, opioids, anticonvulsants, and insulin were significantly associated with readmission (P < 0.029). Medications associated with readmission when taken on a scheduled or as needed basis included oral corticosteroids, anticholinergic medications, opioids, anticonvulsants, and insulin (P < 0.03). When medication information was incorporated into the risk assessment tool, the predictive value of the tool was improved but not enough to consider the tool to be a good predictor of 30‐day readmission.

Conclusion

These results suggest that certain medication classes are associated with an increased risk of hospital readmission and future efforts should be focused on improving readmission risk assessment tools or their administration.
Rebaudioside A administration prevents experimental liver fibrosis: an in vivo and in vitro study of the mechanisms of action involved
Authors: Casas‐Grajales Sael , Reyes‐Gordillo Karina , Cerda‐García‐Rojas Carlos M. , Tsutsumi Víctor , Lakshman M. Raj , Muriel Pablo
Published: March 2019

Rebaudioside A (Reb A) is a diterpenoid isolated from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) that has been shown to possess pharmacological activity, including anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, the ability of Reb A to prevent liver injury has not been evaluated. Therefore, we aimed to study the potential of Reb A (20 mg/kg; two times daily intraperitoneally) to prevent liver injury induced by thioacetamide (TAA) administration (200 mg/kg; three times per week intraperitoneally). In addition, cocultures were incubated with either lipopolysaccharide or ethanol. Antifibrotic, antioxidant and immunological responses were evaluated. Chronic TAA administration produced considerable liver damage and distorted the liver parenchyma with the presence of prominent thick bands of collagen. In addition, TAA upregulated the expression of α‐smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor‐β1, metalloproteinases 9, 2 and 13, and nuclear factor kappaB and downregulated nuclear erythroid factor 2. Reb A administration prevented all of these changes. In cocultured cells, Reb A prevented the upregulation of genes implicated in fibrotic and inflammatory processes when cells were exposed to ethanol and lipopolysaccharide. Altogether, our results suggest that Reb A prevents liver damage by blocking oxidative processes via upregulation of nuclear erythroid factor 2, exerts immunomodulatory effects by downregulating the nuclear factor‐κB system and acts as an antifibrotic agent by maintaining collagen content.
Effects of acidic calcium phosphate concentration on setting reaction and tissue response to β‐tricalcium phosphate granular cement
Authors: Fukuda Naoyuki , Ishikawa Kunio , Akita Kazuya , Kamada Kumiko , Kurio Naito , Mori Yoshihide , Miyamoto Youji
Published: March 2019

Beta‐tricalcium phosphate granular cement (β‐TCP GC), consisting of β‐TCP granules and an acidic calcium phosphate (Ca‐P) solution, shows promise in the reconstruction of bone defects as it sets to form interconnected porous structures, that is, β‐TCP granules are bridged with dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCPD) crystals. In this study, the effects of acidic Ca‐P solution concentration (0–600 mmol/L) on the setting reaction and tissue response to β‐TCP GC were investigated. The β‐TCP GC set upon mixing with its liquid phase, based on the formation of DCPD crystals, which bridged β‐TCP granules to one another. Diametral tensile strength of the set β‐TCP GC was relatively the same, at ∼0.6 MPa, when the Ca‐P concentration was 20–600 mmol/L. Due to the setting ability, reconstruction of the rat's calvarial bone defect using β‐TCP GC with 20, 200, and 600 mmol/L Ca‐P solution was much easier compared to that with β‐TCP granules without setting ability. Four weeks after the reconstruction, the amount of new bone was the same, ∼17% in both β‐TCP GC and β‐TCP granules groups. Cellular response to β‐TCP granules and β‐TCP GC using the 20 mmol/L acidic Ca‐P solution was almost the same. However, β‐TCP GC using the 200 and 600 mmol/L acidic Ca‐P solution showed a more severe inflammatory reaction. It is concluded, therefore, that β‐TCP GC, using the 20 mmol/L acidic Ca‐P solution, is recommended as this concentration allows surgical techniques to be performed easily and provides good mechanical strength, and the similar cellular response to β‐TCP granules. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 108B:22–29, 2020.
FGF23, Hypophosphatemia, and Emerging Treatments
Authors: Imel Erik A , Biggin Andrew , Schindeler Aaron , Munns Craig F
Published: March 2019

FGF23 is an important hormonal regulator of phosphate homeostasis. Together with its co‐receptor Klotho, it modulates phosphate reabsorption and both 1α‐hydroxylation and 24‐hydroxylation in the renal proximal tubules. The most common FGF23‐mediated hypophosphatemia is X‐linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), caused by mutations in the PHEX gene. FGF23‐mediated forms of hypophosphatemia are characterized by phosphaturia and low or low‐normal calcitriol concentrations, and unlike nutritional rickets, these cannot be cured with nutritional vitamin D supplementation. Autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive forms of FGF23‐mediated hypophosphatemias show a similar pathophysiology, despite a variety of different underlying genetic causes. An excess of FGF23 activity has also been associated with a number of other conditions causing hypophosphatemia, including tumor‐induced osteomalacia, fibrous dysplasia of the bone, and cutaneous skeletal hypophosphatemia syndrome. Historically phosphate supplementation and therapy using analogs of highly active vitamin D (eg, calcitriol, alfacalcidol, paricalcitol, eldecalcitol) have been used to manage conditions involving hypophosphatemia; however, recently a neutralizing antibody for FGF23 (burosumab) has emerged as a promising treatment agent for FGF23‐mediated disorders. This review discusses the progression of clinical trials for burosumab for the treatment of XLH and its recent availability for clinical use. Burosumab may have potential for treating other conditions associated with FGF23 overactivity, but these are not yet supported by trial data. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Emerging role for Ureaplasma parvum serovar 3: Active infection in women with silent high‐risk human papillomavirus and in women with idiopathic infertility
Authors: Zanotta Nunzia , Campisciano Giuseppina , Morassut Sara , Castro‐Silva Eugenia , Luksa Viviana , Zito Gabriella , Luppi Stefania , Martinelli Monica , Colli Claudia , De Seta Francesco , Ricci Giuseppe , Suligoi Barbara , Comar Manola
Published: March 2019

Recently, there are controversial opinions on the presence of Mycoplasmas/Ureaplasmas as colonizers or pathogens, and on the use of a targeted therapy. This study aimed to characterize Mycoplasmas/Ureaplasmas infections in reproductive age women, including the acquisition of sexually transmitted (ST) pathogens and poor birth outcomes. A total of 646 healthy Italian women fulfilled the inclusion criteria including 521 infertile women, 65 pregnant women, and 60 fertile women with identified risk factors and symptomatic for vaginitis/cervicitis. Multiplex and quantitative molecular techniques and direct automatic DNA sequencing were performed to assess the genome structure of Mycoplasma/Ureaplasma species and ST infected pathogens. Ureaplasma parvum serovar 3 represented the predominant colonizer of the urogenital tract of this series and the unique species significantly associated with ST pathogens coinfection (p < 0.01). U. parvum load >104 bacteria/ml, suggestive of active infection, has been measured only in asymptomatic high‐risk human papillomavirus infected women (24.3%) and in 40% of women with idiopathic infertility. To note, 16% of the follicular fluid from these idiopathic women resulted infected with U. parvum. In conclusion, the present study focused the attention on U. parvum serovar 3 as emerging microorganism in sexually active women that may have the benefit of targeted therapy.
Water‐insoluble cosolvent in aqueous two‐phase system improved the extraction of paeonol from cortex moutan
Authors: Yi Xiaoqi , Mu Xiaojing , Chen Gang , Gou Yan , Wang Chengshan , Yuan Xiaolin
Published: March 2019

Background

Aqueous two‐phase extraction has advantages of green extraction, high yield, good product purity and low cost. However, conventional aqueous two‐phase systems (ATPSs) are limited in extraction/separation due to high polarity. Some researchers tuned the hydrophobicity of ATPSs by addition of hydrophobic ionic liquids or polymers. We aimed to tailor the hydrophobicity of a solvent–salt–water ATPS using cosolvent for extraction of paeonol from cortex moutan.

Results

Tie‐line length and compositions in the ATPS were employed for qualitative evaluation of polarity and polarity difference between the two phases. Conditions such as pH, salt type and concentration, total solvent volume fraction and cosolvent fraction were optimized. Ethyl acetate (EA) as cosolvent in ethanol–NaH2PO4–H2O (EtPO) system did not alter the first‐order kinetic extraction model, but it improved the kinetic constant and boosted the partition coefficient from 36.7 to 58.8. For both EtPO and EtPO–EA systems, both the extraction yields and partition coefficients increased when temperature increased from 11 to 37 °C. The optimized EtPO–EA system demonstrated higher extraction yield than EtPO and 70% (v/v) ethanol systems by 25.4 and 19.5%, respectively.

Conclusions

The hydrophobicity of an ATPS was successfully tuned with cosolvent for paeonol extraction. The cosolvent–salt–water two‐phase systems are promising in extraction of weakly polar components from herbs. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Microfluidic devices towards personalized health and wellbeing
Authors: Marques Marco PC , Boyd Ashleigh S , Polizzi Karen , Szita Nicolas
Published: March 2019

To make personalised medicine a reality, there is a significant need for cost‐effective methods that enable the rapid selection of optimal nutrient intake and/or disease treatment with a minimum of side effects. In this perspective, we briefly discuss the potential of merging the advances of microfluidic devices, organoid structures and advanced analytical methods to progress towards a personalised in vitro platform for health and wellbeing. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Disinfection and nutrient removal in laboratory‐scale photobioreactors for wastewater tertiary treatment
Authors: Bellucci Micol , Marazzi Francesca , Naddeo Luca Stefano , Piergiacomo Federica , Beneduce Luciano , Ficara Elena , Mezzanotte Valeria
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Secondary effluent wastewaters still contain resources including water and nutrients that must be safely reused and recovered. In this study, the combined role of microalgae as disinfectant and nutrient removal agent was evaluated for the potential application of a microalgae‐based process as a cost‐effective tertiary treatment. Nutrient removal, biomass productivity and disinfection performances were monitored in laboratory‐scale photobioreactors (batch and continuous) fed on a secondary effluent mixed with a 10% on influent collected at a large municipal wastewater treatment plant where tertiary disinfection is performed by UV treatment.

RESULTS

In microalgae‐based batch disinfection tests, Escherichia coli counts (0.5 ± 0.7 log CFU 100 mL−1) were comparable to those after traditional UV process (0.7 ± 0.84 log CFU 100 mL−1) and lower than in tests where light was applied without microalgae. In the following continuous test, E. coli counts were reduced by one order of magnitude and the pathogenic strain of E. coli O157:H7/H−, Salmonella spp. and indicators such as Bacteroides spp. and Enterococcus spp. were never detectable in the effluents by molecular tools. Total nitrogen and phosphorus removals reached 93 and 100%, respectively, while the algal biomass productivity of the system averaged 50 ± 30 mg TSS L−1 day−1.

CONCLUSIONS

The effluents of the photobioreactors reached quality standards appropriate for water reuse. Moreover, nutrients could be recovered through the generation of algal biomass suitable for further valorization. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Ammonia and phosphorus removal from mixture of treated and raw cattle manure wastewater in a low‐O2 granular sequencing batch reactor
Authors: Matinfar Ali , Mohammadi Maedeh , Najafpour Ghasem D , Younesi Habibollah
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

In this study, the feasibility of an aerobic granular sequencing batch reactor (AGSBR) for elimination of nutrients at low dissolved oxygen (DO) level was investigated. It was fed by a mixture of treated and raw cattle manure wastewater. The behaviour of the AGSBR was assessed at different chemical oxygen demand (COD)/NH4+‐N ratios, feeding strategies (dump‐fill and slow‐rate feeding) and hydraulic retention times (24, 32 and 48 h). For a duration of 140 days, the capability of the AGSBR for reducing COD, ammonia and total phosphorus (TP) contents was studied. At DO concentrations of 0.3–1.0 mg L−1, the effect of different COD/NH4+ ratios (100:3–100:10) was evaluated.

RESULTS

A COD/NH4+‐N ratio of 100:10 resulted in higher nitrification rate (0.0714 gN gMLVSS−1 day−1) compared to a ratio of >100:3 (0.0175 gN gMLVSS−1 day−1). The active granular sludge in dump‐filling mode revealed better settling properties compared to the slow feeding rate. Microscopic observation of aerobic granules showed that the core of granules was dominantly occupied by filamentous microorganisms. Finally, at optimum conditions, removal efficiencies of NH4+‐N, TP and COD were 99.9, 99 and 79%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Applying the AGSBR at low DO is promising as a cost‐effective technique for the secondary treatment of livestock wastewaters. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Identifying dynamical instabilities in supply networks using generalized modeling
Authors: Demirel Güven , MacCarthy Bart L. , Ritterskamp Daniel , Champneys Alan R. , Gross Thilo
Published: March 2019

Supply networks need to exhibit stability in order to remain functional. Here, we apply a generalized modeling (GM) approach, which has a strong pedigree in the analysis of dynamical systems, to study the stability of real‐world supply networks. It goes beyond purely structural network analysis approaches by incorporating material flows, which are defining characteristics of supply networks. The analysis focuses on the network of interactions between material flows, providing new conceptualizations to capture key aspects of production and inventory policies. We provide stability analyses of two contrasting real‐world networks—that of an industrial engine manufacturer and an industry‐level network in the luxury goods sector. We highlight the criticality of links with suppliers that involve the dispatch, processing, and return of parts or sub‐assemblies, cyclic motifs that involve separate paths from a common supplier to a common firm downstream, and competing demands of different end products at specific nodes. Based on a critical discussion of our findings in the context of the supply chain management literature, we generate five propositions to advance knowledge and understanding of supply network stability. We discuss the implications of the propositions for the effective management, control, and development of supply networks. The GM approach enables fast screening to identify hidden vulnerabilities in extensive supply networks.
Feeding May Modulate the Relationship Between Systemic Inflammation, Insulin Resistance, and Poor Outcome Following Cardiopulmonary Bypass for Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Floh Alejandro A. , McCrindle Brian W. , Manlhiot Cedric , Nakada Masayuki , La Rotta Gustavo , Van Arsdell Glen , Schwartz Steven M.
Published: March 2019

Background

Hyperglycemia is common following cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery and is associated with poor outcomes, often attributed to hyperinsulinemia and an acquired state of insulin resistance. This study examined the underpinnings of hyperglycemia and the effects of nutrition on the association with inflammation and clinical outcomes.

Methods

This prospective, observational cohort study enrolled consecutive children (<18 years) undergoing CPB. Serial measurements of inflammatory cytokines, glucose, insulin, and nutrition delivery were obtained. Glucose‐insulin ratio (G:I) was calculated for each time point as a measure of insulin resistance (lower G:I reflects higher resistance). Clinical outcomes were recorded using a composite morbidity score.

Results

The 200 subjects studied were predominantly females (58%) undergoing biventricular repair (85%) at a median (interquartile range) age of 0.58 years (0.28, 3.4) and weight of 7.0 kg (3.1, 59.5). Hyperglycemia was common (49% of patients), coinciding with peak cytokine concentrations. Insulin levels were highest and G:I lowest immediately following separation from CPB but had no consistent relationship with cytokines. The morbidity outcome was reached by 23% of patients, with increased odds associated with higher interleukin (IL)6 and IL8 levels but not by glucose, insulin, or G:I. Providing higher feeding volumes attenuated this association between inflammation and morbidity. Higher feeds were not associated with G:I but appeared to decrease the strength of the relationship between cytokines and glycemic indices.

Conclusion

Postoperative morbidity is independently associated with increased inflammation but not with hyperglycemia or markers of insulin resistance. Higher feeding volume may modify these relationships and have a protective role.
Fucus vesiculosus extracts as natural antioxidants for improvement of physicochemical properties and shelf life of pork patties formulated with oleogels
Authors: Agregán Rubén , Barba Francisco J , Gavahian Mohsen , Franco Daniel , Khaneghah Amin Mousavi , Carballo Javier , Ferreira Isabel CFR , da Silva Barretto Andrea Carla , Lorenzo José M
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

There is limited information in the literature concerning the feasibility of using algal extracts as natural additives for improvement of the quality and shelf‐life of meat products. Hence, a Fucus vesiculosus extract (FVE) at the concentrations of 250 mg kg‐1 (FVE‐250), 500 mg kg‐1 (FVE‐500) and 1000 mg kg‐1 (FVE‐1000) were added to pork patties with linseed oil oleogel as a fat replacer.

RESULTS

Total polyphenol content of FVE was determined to be 20 g phloroglucinol equivalents 100 g‐1 extract. Antioxidant values ranged from 37.5 μmol of Trolox equivalents (TE) g‐1 (FRAP assay) to 2111 μmol TE g‐1 extract (ABTS assay). Regarding oxidation stability, FVE‐1000 showed the lowest values of thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substance and carbonyl content. On the other hand, FVE did not improve color, surface discoloration or odor attributes of patties during storage. Sensory evaluation revealed that there was no significant difference among all studied samples.

CONCLUSION

Although FVEs have a high polyphenol content and antioxidant activities, they are not effective oxidation inhibitors for long‐term storage of meat products. Therefore, additional measures or compounds should be considered when FVE is the only antioxidant in meat products. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Ultrasound‐Guided Extraction of Intrauterine Devices With Nonvisible Threads: 254 Consecutive Cases: An Effective, Noninvasive Technique
Authors: Kottmann Cristian , Troncoso Maite , Valenzuela Ignacio , Ugarte Carolina , Diaz Pilar , Monckeberg Max , Illanes Sebastian E.
Published: March 2019

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are among the most efficient and widely used contraceptive methods available. Removal is recommended after a certain time or in some cases when adverse effects are observed. A considerable number of patients have nonvisible guides or “lost threads” on speculum examinations, hindering the extraction. In this article, we report a consecutive series of 254 nonpregnant patients referred to our center after 1 or more failed attempts at IUD removal. We describe a novel ultrasound‐guided approach, using a laparoscopic forceps to safely and effectively remove IUDs in nonpregnant patients.
MiR‐101 relates to chronic peripheral neuropathic pain through targeting KPNB1 and regulating NF‐κB signaling
Authors: Liu Jun‐Chao , Xue Dong‐Fang , Wang Xiao‐Qian , Ai Deng‐Bin , Qin Pei‐Juan
Published: March 2019

Accumulating evidences indicates that chronic neuropathic pain is a kind of neuro‐immune disorder with enhanced activation of the immune system. Although the prevalence is very high, neuropathic pain remains extremely difficult to cure. miRNAs are a group of short nonprotein coding RNAs, regulating target genes expression via targeting 3′‐untranslated region. More and more research indicates that altered miRNAs expression profile relates to the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain. In this study, we firstly detected the expression of six candidate miRNAs in the plasma samples from 23 patients with neuropathic pain and 10 healthy controls. Subsequently, the level of miR‐132 and miR‐101 was detected in the sural nerve biopsies. We found miR‐101 level was significantly repressed in both the plasma samples and sural nerve biopsies from neuropathic pain patients. Predicted by bioinformatics tools and confirmed by dual luciferase assay and immunoblotting, we identified that KPNB1 is a direct target of miR‐101. The negative correlation between miR‐101 and KPNB1 was also confirmed in the sural nerve biopsies, and miR‐101 reduction relates to the activation of NF‐κB signaling in vivo and in vitro which contributes to the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain.
Prognostic value of volumetric metabolic parameter changes determined by during and after radiotherapy‐based 18F‐FDG PET/CT in stage III non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Chen Helen H. W. , Su Wu‐Chou , Guo How‐Ran , Lee Bi‐Fang , Chiu Nan‐Tsing
Published: March 2019

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the prognostic value of volumetric metabolic parameters assessed by during and after radiation‐based therapy 18F‐FDG PET/CT in patients with stage III non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We enrolled stage III NSCLC patients who had planned to receive definitive chemo‐radiation or radiotherapy (RT) and underwent 18F‐FDG PET/CT before treatment (PET1), during RT (at the fifth week, PET2) and after treatment (3 months later, PET3). By comparing with PET1, percentage changes of metabolic tumor volume (ΔMTV) and tumor total lesion glycolysis (ΔTLG) of PET2 and PET3 were calculated. We used medians of ΔTLG and ΔMTV as cut‐off values to stratify patients. Their prognostic values were evaluated by progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Thirty patients were enrolled initially. Five were excluded due to multiple metastases or double cancer. The remaining 25 patients had PET2 at a median of 46 Gy. Data on PET3 were available in 19 patients. During‐RT ΔTLG (cut‐off: 65%) was a significant prognostic factor for PFS (P = 0.02) and OS (P < 0.01). During‐RT ΔMTV (cut‐off: 42%) had marginal significance for PFS (P = 0.07) and was significant for OS (P = 0.02). Of the PET3 parameters, neither ΔTLG nor ΔMTV was a significant prognostic factor for PFS and OS. We conclude that ΔTLG of during‐RT 18F‐FDG PET/CT may predict treatment response and thus provide opportunities to modify treatment for poor responders.
Circulating Adipokine VASPIN Is Associated with Serum Lipid Profiles in Humans
Authors: Breitfeld Jana , Wiele Norman , Gutsmann Beate , Stumvoll Michael , Blüher Matthias , Scholz Markus , Kovacs Peter , Tönjes Anke
Published: March 2019

VASPIN, visceral adipose tissue‐derived serpin, is an adipokine ameliorating insulin resistance in obesity. Here, we investigated the role of VASPIN and its genetic variants in lipid metabolism. We measured serum VASPIN concentrations by ELISA in 823 metabolically well‐characterized Caucasian subjects (Sorbs from Germany). Furthermore, we genotyped 30 representative single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in two independent cohorts with metabolic phenotyping, the Sorbs (N = 823) and Leipzig (N = 919), and conducted genotype–phenotype association analyses. Circulating VASPIN strongly correlated with triacylglycerol levels (TAG; p = 1.079 × 10−11), and moderately with apolipoprotein A1 and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.026). Genetic variants in VASPIN were nominally associated with cholesterol, high‐density and low‐density lipoprotein (HDL‐chol, LDL‐chol), lipoprotein A, and apolipoprotein B as well as with TAG and free fatty acids (all p < 0.05 adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index [BMI]). Mendelian randomization analysis using VASPIN SNP as an instrumental variable showed borderline influence of VASPIN on LDL‐chol levels (p = 0.05). Associations of VASPIN and its genetic variation with metabolic traits suggest a role of VASPIN in human lipid metabolism.
Peripheral Artery Disease Is Associated with a Deficiency of Erythrocyte Membrane n‐3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids
Authors: Ramirez Joel L. , Zahner Greg J. , Spaulding Kimberly A. , Khetani Sukaynah A. , Hills Nancy K. , Gasper Warren J. , Harris William S. , Cohen Beth E. , Grenon S. Marlene
Published: March 2019

Population‐based data suggest that individuals who consume large dietary amounts of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have lower odds of peripheral artery disease (PAD); however, clinical studies examining n‐3 PUFA levels in patients with PAD are sparse. The objective of this study is to compare erythrocyte membrane fatty acid (FA) content between patients with PAD and controls. We conducted a cross‐sectional study of 179 vascular surgery outpatients (controls, 34; PAD, 145). A blood sample was drawn and the erythrocyte FA content was assayed using capillary gas chromatography. We calculated the ratio of the n‐3 PUFA eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) to the n‐6 PUFA arachidonic acid (ARA) as well as the omega‐3 index (O3I), a measure of erythrocyte content of the n‐3 PUFA, EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), expressed as a percentage of total erythrocyte FA. Compared with controls, patients with PAD smoked more and were more likely to have hypertension and hyperlipidemia (p < 0.05). Patients with PAD had a lower mean O3I (5.0 ± 1.7% vs 6.0 ± 1.6%, p < 0.001) and EPA:ARA ratio (0.04 ± 0.02 vs 0.05 ± 0.05, p < 0.001), but greater mean total saturated fats (39.5 ± 2.5% vs 38.5 ± 2.6%, p = 0.01). After adjusting for several patient characteristics, comorbidities, and medications, an absolute decrease of 1% in the O3I was associated with 39% greater odds of PAD (odds ratio [OR] 1.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03–1.86, and p = 0.03). PAD was associated with a deficiency of erythrocyte n‐3 PUFA, a lower EPA:ARA ratio, and greater mean total saturated fats. These alterations in FA content may be involved in the pathogenesis or development of poor outcomes in PAD.
Transcranial photobiomodulation prevents anxiety and depression via changing serotonin and nitric oxide levels in brain of depression model mice: A study of three different doses of 810 nm laser
Authors: Eshaghi Emad , Sadigh‐Eteghad Saeed , Mohaddes Gisou , Rasta Seyed Hossein
Published: March 2019

Objectives

The effectiveness of transcranial photobiomodulation (TPBM) in treating anxiety and depression disorders is a demonstrated and identified issue. However, the optimum therapeutic dose and the underlying mechanism of action are not fully understood. In this study, the therapeutic effects of three different near‐infrared (NIR) doses on anxiety‐ and depression‐like behaviors as well as cerebral levels of serotonin (5‐HT) and nitric oxide (NO) were evaluated in a mouse model of chronic restraint stress (CRS).

Materials and Methods

CRS procedure (3 hours/day, over 3 weeks) was performed as a typical stress model to study anxiety and depression along with laser treatment (3 times/week, over 3 weeks), which began simultaneously with CRS. A NIR diode laser (810 nm wavelength, 10 Hz) with the output power of 200 mW and power density of 4.75 W/cm2 was implemented to deliver three different doses of 4, 8, and 16 J/cm2 to the cerebral cortex of mice. Behavioral experiments including open field, tail suspension, and elevated plus maze tests as well as serum cortisol levels were assessed to evaluate the anti‐anxiety and anti‐depressive effects of NIR TPBM. The changes of 5‐HT and NO levels in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (Hipp) were assessed.

Results

CRS procedure induced anxiety‐ and depression‐like behaviors, increased serum cortisol levels, decreased 5‐HT and increased NO levels in the PFC and Hipp areas. NIR TPBM improved behavioral results, decreased serum cortisol levels, increased 5‐HT and decreased NO concentrations in the PFC and Hipp. A dose of 8 J/cm2 of NIR TPBM showed the maximum effects on behavioral and molecular results, while a decline was observed from the optimum effects at both lower (4 J/cm2) and higher (16 J/cm2) doses.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that NIR TPBM had an anti‐anxiety and anti‐depressive effect in CRS mice, which is probably linked to increasing 5‐HT and decreasing NO levels in the PFC and Hipp areas. Also, the maximum anti‐anxiety and anti‐depressive effect was produced at dose of 8 J/cm2. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Three novel MTM1 pathogenic variants identified in Japanese patients with X‐linked myotubular myopathy
Authors: Nishikawa Atsuko , Iida Aritoshi , Hayashi Shinichiro , Okubo Mariko , Oya Yasushi , Yamanaka Gaku , Takahashi Ikuko , Nonaka Ikuya , Noguchi Satoru , Nishino Ichizo
Published: March 2019

Background

X‐linked myotubular myopathy (XLMTM) is a form of the severest congenital muscle diseases characterized by marked muscle weakness, hypotonia, and feeding and breathing difficulties in male infants. It is caused by mutations in the myotubularin gene (MTM1).

Methods

Evaluation of clinical history and examination of muscle pathology of three patients and comprehensive genome analysis on our original targeted gene panel system for muscular diseases.

Results

We report three patients, each of whom presents distinct muscle pathological features. The three patients have novel hemizygous MTM1 variants, including c.527A>G (p.Gln176Arg), c.595C>G (p.Pro199Ala), or c.688T>C (p.Trp230Arg).

Conclusions

All variants were assessed as “Class 4 (likely pathogenic)” on the basis of the guideline of American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics. These distinct pathological features among the patients with variants in the second cluster of PTP domain in MTM1 provides an insight into microheterogeneities in disease phenotypes in XLMTM.
Association study between genetic polymorphisms in folate metabolism and gastric cancer susceptibility in Chinese Han population: A case–control study
Authors: Wei Lusha , Niu Fanglin , Wu Jiamin , Chen Fulin , Yang Hua , Li Jing , Jin Tianbo , Wu Yifei
Published: March 2019

Background

Gastric cancer (GC), the second leading cause of cancer mortality behind lung cancer worldwide, is caused by both genetic and environmental factors. In this study, we evaluated the association between the genetic polymorphisms of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), methionine synthesis reductase (MTR), and methyltransferase reductase (MTRR) genes and ischemic stroke risk in Chinese population.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted including 681 patients with GC and 756 healthy controls. Chi‐squared test/Fisher's exact test and genetic model were used to evaluate associations. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using unconditional logistic regression.

Results

In the allele model, using the chi‐square test, we found that the rs1532268 in MTRR with a minor allele T was significantly associated with increased risk of GC (OR = 1.24, 95% CI, 1.00–1.53; p = 0.048). In the genetic model analysis, we identified that the single‐nucleotide polymorphism of the rs1801133 in MTHFR could increase the GC risk in the recessive model (OR = 1.31, 95% CI, 1.01–1.70; p = 0.042) and log‐additive model (OR = 1.19, 95% CI, 1.02–1.38; p = 0.025). In MTHFR, a strong linkage of rs2274976 and rs1801133 was detected. The haplotype “GC” in the MTHFR gene was found to prominently increase the risk of GC (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.07–1.47; p = 0.005). Other haplotypes did not display the correlativity.

Conclusion

This study suggested that MTR and MTHFR polymorphisms may contribute to increase the risk of GC.
Stability of solutions of a class of nonlinear fractional diffusion equations with respect to a pseudo‐differential operator
Authors: Nguyen Minh Dien , Dang Duc Trong
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we study the forward and the backward in time problems for a class of nonlinear diffusion equations with respect to the pseudo‐differential operator. Herein, we investigate the stability of the solution of the forward problem in relationship with parameters of the pseudo‐differential operator and initial data. Besides, as known, the backward in time problem is instability. Hence, we give a method to regularize the solution of the backward problem in the case of the parameters are perturbed.
Proximal point algorithm for nonlinear multivalued type mappings in Hadamard spaces
Authors: Kumam Wiyada , Kitkuan Duangkamon , Padcharoen Anantachai , Kumam Poom
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we modify the proximal point algorithm for finding common fixed points in CAT(0) spaces for nonlinear multivalued mappings and a minimizer of a convex function and prove Δ‐convergence of the proposed algorithm. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the convergence result. Our results improve and extend the corresponding results in the literature.
Leader‐following consensus of nonlinear singular multiagent systems with intermittent communication
Authors: Xie Xinxin , Mu Xiaowu
Published: March 2019

This paper investigates the leader‐following consensus of nonlinear singular multiagent systems with intermittent communication on a fixed undirected topology. Unlike the existing works on singular multiagent systems that the communication among agents is continuous, in this work, agents can only communicate with their neighbors on some disconnected time intervals. Based on algebraic graph theory, singular system theory and multi‐Lyapunov function approach, the cooperative intermittent control protocol and sufficient conditions are proposed to guarantee the existence and uniqueness of solutions and leader‐following consensus of the systems. Furthermore, a description of state jumps at the instants of communication interrupt and restoration is presented. Finally, numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical analysis.
Tubular surfaces of center curves on spacelike surfaces in Lorentz‐Minkowski 3‐space
Authors: Hu Shichang , Wang Zhigang , Tang Xiaoqing
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we introduce three kinds of tubular surfaces associated to original center curves γ lying in spacelike surfaces in Lorentz‐Minkowski 3‐space. It is demonstrated that these tubular surfaces can occur some singularities and the types of these singularities can be characterised by several invariants, respectively. Some interesting relations between the contacts of original curve γ with osculating model surfaces, the contacts of γ with slices, and the singularities of three kinds of surfaces are further revealed. Several examples are presented to explain the theoretical results.
A note on the expressive power of deep rectified linear unit networks in high‐dimensional spaces
Authors: Chen Liang , Wu Congwei
Published: March 2019

We investigate the ability of deep deep rectified linear unit (ReLU) networks to approximate multivariate functions. Specially, we establish the approximation error estimate on a class of bandlimited functions; in this case, ReLU networks can overcome the “curse of dimensionality.”
Design X‐band monopulse tracking system
Authors: Kwon Kun‐Sup , Park Joongki , Kim Woohyun , Lee Ho‐Sub , Park Do‐Hyun , Heo Jong‐Wan
Published: March 2019

In this letter, a higher‐order‐mode coupler using waveguide for multimode monopulse satellite tracking and signal processing schemes handling the signal from the higher‐order‐mode coupler are proposed. The proposed higher‐order‐mode coupler uses TM01 mode for compactness and weight reduction, making it suitable for OTM satellite tracking systems. The TM01 mode is extracted from the two H‐plane slots of the circular waveguide and then divided signals are combined through magic‐T structure. Also, the sum and difference radiation patterns of antenna applicable to monopulse satellite tracking are generated. A monopulse tracking data is extracted using the proposed signal processing schemes to the antenna radiation patterns. The influence of Doppler effect and noise is concerned to enhance tracking accuracy and sliding techniques are adopted to deal with an instantaneous tracking system. Designed X‐band higher‐order‐mode coupler of TM01 mode and signal processing schemes are expected to be used for all OTM monopulse satellite tracking systems.