bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The combined use of 1H and 2D NMR‐based metabolomics and chemometrics for non‐targeted screening of biomarkers and identification of reconstituted milk
Authors: Cui Jing , Zhu Dan , Su Meicheng , Tan Dongfei , Zhang Xia , Jia Man , Chen Gang
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

The illegal undeclared addition of reconstituted milk powder to ultra‐heat treated (UHT) milk to lower production costs is an example of economically motivated adulteration. This activity not only defrauds consumers but also places honest traders at a disadvantage, which could damage the reputation of milk producers and reduce the integrity of the markets. In this research, a non‐targeted analytical strategy that combines proton (1H) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy with a chemometrics data mining tool was developed for the authentication of bovine UHT milk.

RESULTS

Unsupervised principal component analysis was used to distinguish UHT and tap‐water‐reconstituted powdered milk. Partial least squares‐discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) with R2(Y) and Q2 equal to 0.859 and 0.748, respectively, was used to differentiate UHT and reconstituted milk samples. Three compounds were selected as biomarkers to distinguish UHT and reconstituted milk and identified according to the standard NMR‐spectra database. Finally, a PLS‐DA model was established, according to the characteristic spectral bands, to identify UHT milk and reconstituted milk.

CONCLUSION

This procedure demonstrated the feasibility of using non‐targeted NMR profiling combined with chemometric analysis to combat mislabeling and fraudulent practices in milk production. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of buckwheat extracts on acrylamide formation and the quality of bread
Authors: Jing Yuchun , Li Xiaoping , Hu Xinzhong , Ma Zhen , Liu Liu , Ma Xia
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

The presence of acrylamide in food has attracted wide attention and has raised concerns due to its potential toxic and carcinogenic effects. The phenolic compounds in buckwheat display strong antioxidant activity, which may affect the acrylamide levels. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effect of buckwheat extracts on acrylamide formation and the quality of the bread, and to investigate possible inhibitory mechanisms.

RESULTS

The extracts from Tartary buckwheat seeds, Tartary buckwheat sprouts, common buckwheat seeds, and common buckwheat sprouts reduced acrylamide level in bread by 23.5, 27.3, 17.0, and 16.7%, respectively. In addition, all four buckwheat extracts significantly (P < 0.05) reduced acrylamide levels in the asparagine / glucose system. There were significant positive correlations between total phenolic compound content, the antioxidant activity of the extracts, and the reduction in the acrylamide level. Evaluation of the organoleptic and textural properties indicated that the addition of the extracts did not significantly affect the crust color, aroma, taste, crumb appearance, and hardness of the bread.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that proper use of buckwheat extracts can reduce acrylamide levels in bread without having a significant impact on their properties. The study also revealed that a possible acrylamide formation inhibitory mechanism involved the Maillard reaction through the asparagine / glucose pathway. The study also provided useful information for the further application of buckwheat in improving food safety. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Why do tourists differ in their likelihood to visit attractions? The case of Lanzarote
Authors: Padrón‐Ávila Hugo , Hernández‐Martín Raúl
Published: July 2019

In this paper, more than 35,000 survey responses given by tourists from 2010 and 2016 are used to explain visits to tourism attractions in Lanzarote. In the survey, tourists are asked about a wide set of variables. Among these, there is a question regarding the attractions visited during their trip. With these data, it has been possible to carry out a discrete choice model analysis to establish the variables that explain why certain tourists are more prone to visit attractions than others. This study is relevant to understand tourists' mobility patterns and behavior. It also has implications for marketing managers and tourism product developers.
Classification of successional stages in native forests of the Argentine Spinal through neural networks
Authors: Sabattini Julián Alberto , Sabattini Rafael Alberto , Urteaga‐Omar Alicia Florencia , Velázquez‐Martí Borja
Published: July 2019

Native forests are subject to variations in the structure of the different strata. These modifications can have a natural origin due to phenomena such as climate variation, fires, or floods; or they can be anthropic, due to the unsustainable use of forest resources. In general, according to the dominance of the different strata, the forests are classified as virgin, successional, or renoval. In the realization of inventories, there are situations in which the operator can offer a doubtful classification with a high degree of subjectivity. The purpose of this work has been to provide to technicians an objective tool for the classification of successional status in native forests. In this work, it has been found that there is a relationship between the presence of combinations of different plant species, both arboreal and shrub, related to the classification of forests. This relationship has been analyzed through the application of neural networks in two steps: First, a perceptron was applied, then a probabilistic neural network. The analysis through an artificial neuronal network of these two stages has allowed us to develop equations that through the presence/absence of 16 species allows to classify objectively the successional state. This analysis demonstrated an agreement of 83% with the subjective classification of trained field assessors.
The Value of Innovation to Implementation Program (VI2P): A strategic approach to aligning and leveraging academic research and clinical care missions
Authors: Li Jing , Williams Mark V. , Page Cecilia , Cassis Lisa , Kern Philip A. , DiPaola Robert S.
Published: July 2019

Problem

Inefficient implementation of evidence‐based care garners increasing attention as a source of suboptimal value of clinical care, and integration of quality improvement methodology into clinical practice represents a potential solution. Academic medical centers (AMCs) often have expertise in implementation science, yet it is not leveraged effectively to solve operational inefficiencies or to rapidly implement evidence‐based practices (EBPs).

Approach

To leverage in‐house research expertise, the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Medicine and Center for Health Services Research (CHSR) launched a pilot awards program—Value of Innovation to Implementation Program (VI2P)—across its health system and six health professional colleges. Criteria for awards included a transdisciplinary research team and addressing health disparity issues faced by Kentucky. Outcome measures included EBP adoption and implementation and future funding.

Outcomes

The VI2P produced 26 transdisciplinary teams that submitted letters of intent. Ten teams were invited to submit full proposal, and four projects were selected for award, spanning the entire continuum of health‐impact research. Three nonawarded projects were implemented and prompted system redesign for an “implementation research living laboratory.” A Workgroup for ImplementatioN Science (WINS) was established to forge transdisciplinary teams to pursue federal grant funding yielding proposals totaling $17.17 million submitted, $4.38 million awarded, and $5.97 million under review. Junior faculty were encouraged to pursue implementation science as a research focus.

Next Steps

UK WINS will continue serve as the hub for dissemination and implementation researchers at UK. On the basis of the enthusiasm expressed by multiple groups and many inquiries about the future training opportunities at UK, we plan to develop a tailored dissemination and implementation (D&I) training program to build research and practice capacity at UK.
Corrosion behavior of Al2024‐T3, Al5052‐H32, and Al6061‐T6 aluminum alloys coated with DLC films in aviation fuel medium, Jet A‐1 and AVGAS 100LL
Authors: Macário Paulo F. , Vieira Angela , Manfroi Lucas , da Silva Michely G. P. , Leite Priscila , Vieira Lucia
Published: July 2019

In aircraft and storage fuel tanks, many environmental corrosion factors can be present, which can cause breakdown to the passive film of aluminum causing severe localized corrosion. Aiming to a solution to this problem, diamond‐like carbon (DLC) films were deposited on substrates Al 2024‐T3, Al 5052‐H32, and Al 6061‐T6. The substrates with and without DLC films were submitted to a corrosive immersion test with aviation fuel Jet‐A1 and AVGAS 100LL. The surface morphology from aluminum substrates with and without DLC films was analyzed before and after 7 and 30 days of corrosive immersion tests by SEM. The adhesion of the DLC films was evaluated according to the ASTM‐C1624 scratching test standard, and the optical profilometry was used to measure the thickness and roughness. Silver nanoparticles were also added in DLC films samples due to its antibacterial properties to check the stability and resistance against corrosive fuel medium. The results indicated an improvement of corrosion resistance just with DLC films. The silver nanoparticles did not present any advantages in this corrosion protection, and the aluminum alloys suffered more corrosion than when protected by DLC films.
pH‐Sensitive Poly(ethylene glycol)/Poly(ethoxyethyl glycidyl ether) Block Copolymers: Synthesis, Characterization, Encapsulation, and Delivery of a Hydrophobic Drug
Authors: Illy Nicolas , Corcé Vincent , Zimbron Jérémy , Molinié Vincent , Labourel Mélanie , Tresset Guillaume , Degrouard Jéril , Salmain Michèle , Guégan Philippe
Published: July 2019

Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound known for its numerous pharmacological properties. However, its low water solubility and instability at neutral pH are serious drawbacks preventing its use as an oral drug. Well‐defined amphiphilic poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(ethoxyethyl glycidyl ether) (PEG‐b‐PEEGE) block copolymers carrying acid‐labile acetal groups are synthesized by anionic ring‐opening polymerization and investigated as potential pH‐sensitive nano‐carriers for delivery of curcumin to cancer cells. The nanoparticles, resulting from copolymer self‐assembly in aqueous media, are characterized by dynamic light scattering and cryo‐transmission electron microscopy. The nanoparticles’ stabilities are evaluated in three different phosphate buffers (pH = 7.2, 6.4, and 5.3). The stability decreases at lower pH and a complete disappearance of the nanoparticles is noticed after 4 days at pH 5.3. Curcumin is encapsulated in hydrophobic core of mPEG40‐b‐PEEGE25 nanoparticles allowing significant enhancements of curcumin solubility in water and lifetime at neutral pH. In vitro curcumin release is studied at different pH by UV‐spectroscopy and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The cytotoxicity of curcumin and curcumin encapsulated in micelles is evaluated by cell viability 3‐(4,5‐Dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay on MDA‐MB‐231 human breast cancer cells.
iPhone as a proxy indicator of adaptive narcissism: An empirical investigation
Authors: M. A. Sanjeev , Sehrawat Anil , P. K. Santhosh Kumar
Published: July 2019

In a consumeristic society, brands have become a signal to the identity and personality of the users. Apple Incorporate has been one of the most successful marketers, of modern times, with its iconic range of “i” devices that have a cult‐like following. The growth of “individualistic” society has also been credited with, as an important reason, for the success of the brand. Societies and people high in terms of individualism also tend to be more narcissistic. This study is an attempt to ascertain whether the use of the Apple iPhone is an indication of Narcissism. The results indicate an overall higher narcissistic score among users and aspirers of iPhone. However, iPhone users exhibit higher scores only in adaptive narcissism—indicative of leadership and authority and not in maladaptive narcissism—indicative of Entitlement Exploitativeness and Grandiose Exhibitionism; in comparison to nonusers. The results of the study have various managerial implications that may range from personality assessment to designing marketing messages and improving employee leadership and authority.
One‐Pot, Multicomponent Strategy for Designing Lymphoseek‐Inspired Hetero‐Glycoadjuvant@AuNPs
Authors: Liu Mengjie , Wen Ming , Shen Shuyi , Zhang Zhengbiao , Chen Gaojian , Zhang Weidong
Published: July 2019

Searching for vaccines (antigen and adjuvant) with easy preparation and strong T‐cell response are crucial for antitumor immunity. In this work, to design lymphoseek‐inspired vaccine possessing the abilities of promoting vaccine internalization and enhancing CD8+ T‐cell responses, a simple multicomponent strategy is successfully utilized to fabricate lymph node and dendritic cell dual‐targeting glycoadjuvant@AuNPs in one pot, where three different components, catechol‐containing glycopolymer, HAuCl4, and amine‐terminal CpG (CpG‐NH2) can react in a single step to generate target adjuvant. It is found that hetero‐glycoadjuvant@AuNPs could increase adjuvant internalization and enhance the activation of bone‐marrow‐derived dendritic cells. Critically, lymphoseek‐inspired vaccine potentiates antigen‐specific CD8+ T‐cell immune responses.
Combinational Hydrogel and Xerogel Actuators Showing NIR Manipulating Complex Actions
Authors: Yang Shurui , Zhang Yuancheng , Zhang Chao , Wang Tao , Sun Weixiang , Tong Zhen
Published: July 2019

Near‐infrared (NIR)‐driven shape memory hydrogels are synthesized with a one‐pot polymerization of N,N‐dimethylacrylamide in the inorganic clay and graphene oxide (GO) suspension. The hydrogel consists of only a physically crosslinked network, which is partially thermoreversible. With the efficient photothermal energy transformation of GO in the hydrogels, the shape recovery from the temporal shape is achieved by NIR irradiation. The optimal shape fixing percentage and recovery rate are found at moderate monomer and crosslinker contents. Meanwhile, the xerogel dried from the hydrogel also shows a fast NIR response shape change. The NIR manipulating combinational hydrogel–xerogel actuators are prepared by combining the wet and soft hydrogel and its dry and rigid xerogel together. The actuators achieve complex actions of turning and lifting under sequential NIR irradiation to carry an object up‐ and downward and around obstacles, or to transfer an object to a target position. This work provides a new idea for designing combinational actuators to fulfil complex actions.
Hyperlipidemia Determines Dysfunctional HDL Production and Impedes Cholesterol Efflux in the Small Intestine: Alleviation by Ginger Extract
Authors: Barbalata Teodora , Deleanu Mariana , Carnuta Mihaela Georgiana , Niculescu Loredan Stefan , Raileanu Mina , Sima Anca Volumnia , Stancu Camelia Sorina
Published: July 2019

Scope

To assess the impact of ginger extract (GIN) in stimulating the production of quality HDL and the cholesterol efflux in the small intestine (SI), key processes in the management of hyperlipidemia (HL)‐induced hepatic steatosis, and atherosclerosis.

Methods and results

Three groups of hamsters are used: (i) N, fed standard diet, (ii) HL, fed high‐fat diet for 21 weeks, and (iii) HL‐GIN, HL treated with GIN for the last 5 weeks of diet. Apolipoprotein A‐I (apoA‐I), malondialdehyde‐apoA‐I (MDA‐apoA‐I), paraoxonase1 (PON1), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) are measured in plasma and SI. ATP‐binding cassette A1 transporter (ABCA1), ABCG5/G8, liver X receptor α/β (LXRα/β), peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ), and sirtuin1 (SIRT1) are assessed in the SI. Results show that in HL plasma, GIN decreases MDA‐apoA‐I, MPO/PON1 ratio and increases HDL‐cholesterol/total cholesterol. In HL‐SI, GIN decreases MDA‐apoA‐I and MPO, increases ApoA‐I, PON1, and ABCA1, and restores cholesterol efflux disturbed by HL (SIRT1‐LXRα/β‐PPARγ‐ABCG8). GIN administration is associated with the reduction of the aortic valves lipid‐deposits.

Conclusion

In HL conditions, GIN stimulates the functional HDL production by restoring apoA‐I quality and quantity through inhibition of the oxidative stress, and increases cholesterol efflux in the SI. These effects are associated with the restoration of SIRT1‐LXRα/β‐PPARγ pathway.
Patient‐reported study of the impact of pediatric‐onset myotonic dystrophy
Authors: Hunter Michael , Ekstrom Anne‐Berit , Campbell Craig , Hung Man , Bounsanga Jerry , Bates Kameron , Adams Heather R. , Luebbe Elizabeth , Moxley Richard T. , Heatwole Chad , Johnson Nicholas E.
Published: July 2019

Introduction

The prevalence and impact of symptoms affecting individuals with pediatric forms of myotonic dystrophy type‐1 (DM1) are not well understood.

Methods

Patients from the United States, Canada, and Sweden completed a survey that investigated 20 themes associated with pediatric‐onset DM1. Participants reported the prevalence and importance of each theme affecting their lives. Surveys from participants were matched with surveys from their caregivers for additional analysis.

Results

The most prevalent symptomatic themes included problems with hands or fingers (79%) and gastrointestinal issues (75%). Problems with urinary/bowel control and gastrointestinal issues were reported to have the greatest impact on patients’ lives. Responses from participants and their caregivers had varying levels of agreement among symptomatic themes.

Discussion

Many symptoms have meaningful impact on disease burden. The highest levels of agreement between caregivers and individuals with pediatric forms of myotonic dystrophy were found for physical activity themes.
Statin‐induced myasthenia: A disproportionality analysis of the WHO's VigiBase pharmacovigilance database
Authors: Gras‐Champel Valerie , Batteux Benjamin , Masmoudi Kamel , Liabeuf Sophie
Published: July 2019

Background

Statins have been linked to myasthenia gravis (MG) in recent case reports. However, MG is not currently listed as an adverse drug reaction (ADR) in the summary of product characteristics.

Methods

We performed case/noncase analyses in VigiBase® (the World Health Organization international database of suspected ADR) to identify a signal of MG (expressed as the reporting odds ratio [ROR] and its 95% confidence interval [CI]) for statins.

Results

A total of 3967 reports mentioned MG. Of these, 169 were suspected to be statin‐induced. A disproportionality signal was found for MG and statins use (ROR [95%CI] = 2.66 [2.28–3.10]).

Conclusions

The present disproportionality analysis revealed a possible drug safety signal linking MG and statins. This potential signal is weak, and is offset by the cardiovascular benefits of statins. Clinicians should be aware of this potential ADR, because it may require consideration of statin withdrawal or treatment of MG.
Competency‐based continues to fill need, but still faces barriers
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: July 2019

CLEVELAND — The laws of supply and demand state that your institution is more valuable to your prospective students if you offer a program that is high in demand and low in supply. One place that that might apply to your institution is in the realm of competency‐based education — what is the demand for CBE among adult learners, and does your institution set itself apart in the provision of CBE? That was one question posed by Howard Lurie, principal analyst for online and continuing education at Eduventures, during a session at the annual meeting of the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning.
Increased fructose consumption has sex‐specific effects on fibroblast growth factor 21 levels in humans
Authors: Rodgers M. , Heineman B. , Dushay J.
Published: July 2019

Objective

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), a primarily hepatic hormone with pleotropic metabolic effects, is regulated by fructose in humans. Recent work has established that 75 g of oral fructose robustly stimulates FGF21 levels in humans with peak levels occurring 2 h following ingestion; this has been termed an oral fructose tolerance test (OFTT). It is unknown whether prolonged high‐fructose consumption influences the FGF21 response to acute fructose or whether biological sex influences FGF21–fructose dynamics.

Methods

Thirty‐nine healthy adults underwent baseline OFTT following an overnight fast. For the high‐fructose exposure protocol, 20 subjects ingested 75 g of fructose daily for 14 ± 3 d, followed by repeat OFTT. For the control group, an OFTT was repeated following 14 ± 3 d of ad lib diet. For all subjects, FGF21 levels, glucose, insulin, non‐esterified fatty acids and triglyceride levels were measured at baseline and 2 h following OFTT. All subjects maintained 3‐d food logs prior to OFTT testing.

Results

Women demonstrated significantly higher baseline and peak stimulated total and intact FGF21 levels compared with men both before and after high‐fructose exposure. Baseline total and intact FGF21 levels decreased following ongoing fructose exposure, maintaining a stable ratio. This decrease was sex specific, with only women demonstrating decreased baseline FGF21 levels. There were no changes in metabolic or anthropometric parameters following the high‐fructose exposure.

Conclusions

Daily ingestion of 75 g of fructose for 2 weeks results in a sex‐specific decrease in baseline FGF21 levels without change in body weight or biochemical evidence of metabolic injury. There were also sex‐specific differences in peak fructose‐stimulated FGF21 levels, which do not change with high‐fructose consumption. The role of FGF21 in the development of metabolic disease caused by fructose consumption may differ based on biological sex. Future long‐term studies should consider sex differences in FGF21–fructose dynamics.
Impact of anti‐obesity medication initiation and duration on weight loss in a comprehensive weight loss programme
Authors: Safavi R. , Lih A. , Kirkpatrick S. , Haller S. , Bailony M. R.
Published: July 2019

Objective

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the impact of anti‐obesity medication (AOM) initiation, usage and duration on weight loss in a 72‐week precision obesity programme. The type of AOM, diet and exercise plan was chosen based upon an individual's biological and psychosocial needs. The 72‐week study duration allowed for a fair investigation of the downstream impact of delayed versus early AOM initiation.

Methods

Participants, aged ≥18 years with body mass index ≥30 kg m−2, enrolled from 1 March 2015 to 1 April 2017, were included. Subgroups were assigned by AOM usage (users versus non‐users, early [before 8 weeks] versus delayed [after 8 weeks] AOM initiation and short [<6 months] versus long [≥6 months] AOM duration). Primary endpoints included change in baseline weight at 72 weeks and proportions achieving ≥5%, ≥10% and ≥15% weight loss. Outcomes were compared between subgroups.

Results

Mean age and body mass index (N = 129) were 45.0 ± 14.0 years and 37.0 ± 6.0 kg m−2, respectively; 67% were female. At week 72, AOM users (N = 71) achieved significantly greater mean percentage reduction in baseline weight than non‐users (N = 58). On average, baseline weight decreased by 14.04 ± 6.2% in users versus 10.9 ± 6.8% in non‐users (P = 0.008); 84% and 94% of non‐user and AOM users lost >5% weight loss (P = 0.006). A higher proportion of users lost ≥15% of weight (45.1% vs. 19.0%; P < 0.001). Mean percentage reduction in weight was greater for early versus delayed starters (−17.60 ± 5.3% vs. −13.95 ± 5.5%; P = 0.024), and longer AOM usage trended towards increased weight loss.

Conclusion

Early initiation of AOM may enhance weight loss.
Seeing the forest in order and the trees in disorder: Environmental orderliness versus disorderliness affects the perceptual processing style
Authors: Li Kaiyun , Yang Huijing , Wang Xueyang , Zhang Tuo , Lu Ping , Lin Fengxun
Published: July 2019

People attend to the same event or object by using a global or local processing style across different environments. Different physical environmental conditions, such as orderliness and disorderliness, activate different psychological states and produce different kinds of outcomes. However, previous work has rarely examined whether individuals exposed to different orderly or disorderly environments attend to the “global” or the “local” differently. Thus, in the current study, we conducted three behavioral experiments to directly examine the impact of disorder versus order cues on people's types of perceptual and conceptual processing (global vs. local). We asked participants to perform a typical Kimchi–Palmer figures task or a categorization task: with pre‐primed disorderly or orderly physical environmental pictures (Experiment 1), with basic visual pictures (Experiment 2), and imagining a real environment (Experiment 3). The results revealed that in any of the above operations, orderly experience led to global perceptual processing, whereas disorderly experience led to local perceptual processing. This difference in processing style was not influenced by the participants’ daily habits or their preference for the need for structure. However, this difference in perceptual processing style did not spill over to the conceptual processing style. These findings provide direct evidence of the effects of disorderliness versus orderliness on global versus local perceptual and conceptual processing and imply that environmental orderliness or disorderliness may functionally affect cognitive processing (i.e., how we see and think about events and objects). Thus, the findings creatively bridge several lines of research and shed light on a basic cognitive mechanism responsible for perceptions of order/disorder.
Combining agriculture and energy industry waste products to yield recyclable, thermally healable copolymers of elemental sulfur and oleic acid
Authors: Smith Ashlyn D. , Thiounn Timmy , Lyles Elliott W. , Kibler Emily K. , Smith Rhett C. , Tennyson Andrew G.
Published: July 2019

Sulfur and oleic acid, two components of industrial waste/byproducts, were combined in an effort to prepare more sustainable polymeric materials. Zinc oxide was employed to serve the dual role of compatibilizing immiscible sulfur and oleic acid as well as to suppress evolution of toxic H2S gas during reaction at high temperature. The reaction of sulfur, oleic acid, and zinc oxide led to a series of composites, ZOSx (x = wt % sulfur, where x is 8–99). The ZOSx materials ranged from sticky tars to hard solids at room temperature. The ZOSx compositions were assessed by 1H NMR spectrometry, FTIR spectroscopy, and elemental microanalysis. Copolymers ZOS59‐99, were further analyzed for thermal and mechanical properties by thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and dynamic mechanical analysis. Remarkably, even ZOS99, comprising only 1 wt % of zinc oxide/oleic acid (99 wt % S) exhibits at least an eightfold increase in storage modulus compared to sulfur alone. The four solid samples (59–99 wt % S) were thermally healable and readily remeltable with full retention of mechanical durability. These materials represent a valuable proof‐of‐concept for sustainably sourced, recyclable materials from unsaturated fatty acid waste products. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1704–1710
Influence of family income and medical insurance coverage on health‐related quality of life and optimism in cancer patients at a Hong Kong private hospital: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Chiu Sai Yiu Richard , Yang Zuyao
Published: July 2019

Objective

Health‐related quality of life (HRQL) and optimism are important health domains that express the physical, emotional, and psychological well‐being of cancer patients. Previous studies have explored income and medical insurance coverage as predictors of their well‐being with the aim to better understand their financial needs. The primary objective of this study was to examine the associations in the private health sector in Hong Kong.

Methods

The study was conducted cross‐sectionally with a structured questionnaire in traditional Chinese. HRQL was assessed with the RAND 12‐item Health Survey, and optimism was assessed with the Life Orientation Test. The two primary predictors were family income and medical insurance coverage. The associations were tested using logistic regression, controlling for other sociodemographic and clinical covariates.

Results

A total of 428 questionnaires were used in the regression model. After adjusting for other covariates, no significant association was observed with family income as the predictor. Medical insurance coverage was a significant and positive predictor of optimism with odds ratio of 2.30 and 95% confidence interval of 1.30 to 4.05 for the group with the most coverage with little to no coverage as the reference group.

Conclusions

The significant association between medical insurance coverage and optimism might be an indication that the medical cost was a financial burden to many cancer patients in Hong Kong. In addition to their medical needs, cancer support organization and health care practitioners must be able to recognize and assist with the financial needs of the cancer patients.
AKR1C3 expression in primary lesion rebiopsy at the time of metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer is strongly associated with poor efficacy of abiraterone as a first‐line therapy
Authors: Zhao Jinge , Zhang Mengni , Liu Jiandong , Liu Zhenhua , Shen Pengfei , Nie Ling , Guo Wenhao , Cai Diming , Liu Jiyan , Armstrong Cameron M. , Sun Guangxi , Chen Junru , Zhu Sha , Dai Jindong , Zhang Haoran , Zhao Peng , Zhang Xingming , Yin Xiaoxue , Zhu Xudong , Ni Yuchao , Chen Ni , Zeng Hao
Published: July 2019

Background

Previous studies had demonstrated that aldo‐keto reductase family 1 member C3 (AKR1C3), a crucial enzyme in the steroidogenic pathway, played an important role in abiraterone (ABI)‐resistance in metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) by increasing intratumoral androgen synthesis. However, its value in predicting treatment response in patients with mCRPC is unknown.

Method and Materials

Data of 163 patients with metastatic prostate cancer between 2016 and 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients received androgen deprivation therapy plus bicalutamide after initial diagnosis. After mCRPC, either ABI or docetaxel (DOC) treatment was used. No patient had the experience of therapy to the primary tumor. AKR1C3 protein was detected by immunohistochemical staining from rebiopsy (re‐Bx) of primary prostate lesions at mCRPC. Kaplan‐Meier curves and Cox regression were used to analyze the association between AKR1C3 and treatment outcomes.

Results

AKR1C3 was positive in 58 of 163 (35.6%) cases. AKR1C3 was associated with significantly shorter median prostate‐specific antigen progression‐free survival (mPSA‐PFS, 5.6 mo vs 10.7 mo; P < .001), median radiographic progression‐free survival (mrPFS, 11.1 mo vs 18.0 mo; P = .018), and numerically shorter median overall survival (mOS, 20.4 mo vs 26.4 mo; P = .157). Notably, AKR1C3‐positive patients treated with ABI, but not DOC, had shorter mPSA‐PFS and mrPFS compared with AKR1C3‐negative men, (mPSA‐PFS, 5.7 mo vs. 11.2 mo; P < .001; mrPFS, 12.4 mo vs 23.3 mo; P = .048). However, AKR1C3 expression had no correlation to PSA response or OS. Multivariate Cox regression indicated that AKR1C3 was independently accompanied with rapid PSA progression (hazard ratio [HR], 3.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.10‐6.31; P < 0.001) and radiological progression (HR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.05‐4.11; P = .036) in the ABI‐treated subgroup.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that AKR1C3 detection in tissues from prostate re‐Bx at mCRPC was associated with early resistance to ABI but not DOC. These results will help to make optimal personalized treatment decisions for patients with mCRPC, facilitate physicians predicting the effectiveness of ABI.
Modification of lactoferrin by peroxynitrite reduces its antibacterial activity and changes protein structure
Authors: Alhalwani Amani Y. , Davey Rachel L. , Kaul Navneeta , Barbee Scott A. , Alex Huffman J.
Published: July 2019

Lactoferrin (LF) is a multifunctional protein that plays important physiological roles as one of the most concentrated proteins in many human and other mammalian fluids and tissues. In particular, LF provides antibacterial properties to human milk, saliva, and tear fluid. LF also protects against stress‐induced lipid peroxidation at inflammation sites through its iron‐binding ability. Previous studies have shown that LF can be efficiently nitrated via biologically relevant mediators such as peroxynitrite (ONOO−), which are also present at high intracellular concentrations during inflammation and nitrosative stress. Here, we examine changes in antibacterial properties and structure of LF following ONOO− treatment. The reaction induces nitration of tyrosine and tryptophan residues, which are commonly used as biomarker molecules for several diseases. Treatment with ONOO− at a 10/1 M ratio of ONOO− to tyrosine inhibited all antibacterial activity exhibited by native LF. Secondary structural changes in LF were assessed using circular dichroism spectroscopy. Nitration products with and without the addition of Fe3+ show significant reduction in alpha‐helical properties, suggesting partial protein unfolding. Iron‐binding capacity of LF was also reduced after treatment with ONOO−, suggesting a decreased ability of LF to protect against cellular damage. LC‐MS/MS spectrometry was used to identify LF peptide fragments nitrated by ONOO−, including tyrosine residue Y92 located in the iron‐binding region. These results suggest that posttranslational modification of LF by ONOO− could be an important pathway to exacerbate infection, for example, in inflamed tissues and to reduce the ability of LF to act as an immune responder and decrease oxidative damage.
The effects of black seed supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Darand Mina , Darabi Zahra , Yari Zahra , Hedayati Mehdi , Shahrbaf Mohammad Amin , Khoncheh Ahmad , Hosseini‐Ahangar Behnam , Alavian Seyed Moayyed , Hekmatdoost Azita
Published: July 2019

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly related to cardiovascular disorders risk factors. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of black seed (Nigella sativa) supplementation on cardiovascular disorders risk factors in patients with NAFLD. This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial was conducted on 50 patients with NAFLD. Participants were assigned to receive a lifestyle modification plus 2 g/day of either N. sativa or placebo for 12 weeks. Compared with the placebo, N. sativa supplementation led to significant reductions in serum glucose (−7.95 vs. −1.22; p = .041), serum insulin (−3.87 vs. −1.07; p = .027), homeostatic model of assessment for insulin resistance (−1.02 vs. −0.28; p = .021), and a significant increase in quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (0.03 vs. 0.006; p = .002). All of these changes were remained significant after adjusting for known confounding variables; however, there was no significant difference in lipid profile changes between the two groups (p = .05). N. sativa supplementation significantly decreased hepatic steatosis percentage compared with the placebo after adjustment for confounding variables (p = .005). In conclusion, our results indicate that daily intake of 2‐g N. sativa plus lifestyle modification is superior to lifestyle modification alone in amelioration of insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis in patients with NAFLD.
Characterization of polymeric phenolic acids and flavonoids in Clerodendranthi Spicati Herba using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry with target and nontarget data mining strategy
Authors: Luo Yun , Wen Quan , Lai Chang‐Jiang‐Sheng , Feng Yulin , Tan Ting
Published: July 2019

Rationale

Clerodendranthi Spicati Herba (CSH) is often used to treat urinary stones, urinary tract infections and nephritis in China. Much literature has reported that polymeric phenolic acids and flavonoids are the major bioactive components in CSH. Therefore, it is very meaningful to identify the polymeric phenolic acids and flavonoids in CSH.

Methods

Ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC/QTOF‐MS/MS) analysis with target and nontarget data mining strategy was proposed to rapidly profile the polymeric phenolic acids and flavonoids in CSH. Diagnostic product ions and neutral loss filter were beneficial for identifying the polymeric phenolic acids and flavonoids from complex compounds in CSH.

Results

A total of 118 compounds, including 85 polymeric phenolic acids and 33 flavonoids, were reasonably identified in CSH by comparing their main fragmentation pathways with literature data, and 85 of them were discovered in CSH firstly by nontarget analysis. Nine potential compounds were characterized tentatively as new pentameric and hexameric phenolic acids in CSH. Six types of polymeric phenolic acids (monomer, dimer, trimer, tetramer, pentamer and hexamer) and four types of flavonoids (apigenin, kaempferol, luteolin and quercetin) were identified in CSH.

Conclusions

The results indicated that the UHPLC/QTOF‐MS/MS method coupled with target and nontarget data mining strategy was feasible and rational for identifying the polymeric phenolic acids and flavonoids in complex chemical constituents of CSH. The findings will be conducive to the discovery of the active ingredients of CSH and the establishment of quality standards.
Detection of urinary metabolites of arimistane in humans by gas chromatography coupled to high‐accuracy mass spectrometry for antidoping analyses
Authors: Martinez Brito Dayamin , de la Torre Xavier , Botrè Francesco
Published: July 2019

Rationale

The selection of the most appropriate metabolites of the substances included in the Prohibited List of the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA) is fundamental for setting up methods allowing the detection of their intake by mass spectrometric methods. The aim of this work is to investigate the metabolism of arimistane (an aromatase inhibitor included in the WADA list) in order to improve its detection capacity among the antidoping community.

Methods

Urinary samples collected after controlled single administration of arimistane in three healthy volunteers were analysed using the common routine sample preparation in antidoping laboratories to determine the steroid profile parameters considered in the steroid module of the Athlete Biological Passport by gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS). For the elucidation of the proposed metabolites, GC coupled to high‐accuracy MS (GC/qTOFMS) was used. Both mass spectrometers were operated in electron ionization mode. Non‐conjugated (free), glucuronated and sulfated fractions were analysed separately.

Results

No relevant effects on the steroid profile could be detected after a single oral dose (25 mg). Up to 15 metabolites, present only in the post‐administration samples, were detected and some structures were postulated. These metabolites are mainly excreted as glucuro‐conjugated into urine and only minor amounts of two metabolites are also excreted unconjugated or as sulfates.

Conclusions

Arimistane itself was not observed in the free or glucuronated fractions, but only in the sulfate fraction. The peaks showing mass spectra in agreement with hydroxylated metabolites did not match with those for 7‐keto‐DHEA, 7α‐ or 7β‐hydroxy‐DHEA. This suggests that the first hydroxylation did not occur on C3, but on C2. These newly described metabolites allow the specific detection of arimistane misuse in sports.
Remote sensing of river corridors: A review of current trends and future directions
Authors: Tomsett Christopher , Leyland Julian
Published: July 2019

River corridors play a crucial environmental, economic, and societal role yet also represent one of the world's most dangerous natural hazards, making monitoring imperative to improve our understanding and to protect people. Remote sensing offers a rapidly growing suite of methods by which river corridor monitoring can be performed efficiently, at a range of scales and in difficult environmental conditions. This paper aims to evaluate the current state and assess the potential future of river corridor monitoring, whilst highlighting areas that require further investigation. We initially review established methods that are used to undertake river corridor monitoring, framed by the context and scales upon which they are applied. Subsequently, we review cutting edge technologies that are being developed and focussed around unmanned aerial vehicle and multisensor system advances. We also “horizon scan” for future methods that may become increasingly prominent in research and management, citing examples from within and outside of the fluvial domain. Through review of the literature, it has become apparent that the main gap in fluvial remote sensing lies in the trade‐off between resolution and scales. However, prioritising process measurements and simultaneous multisensor data collection is likely to offer a bigger advance in understanding than purely from better surveying methods alone. Challenges regarding the legal deployment of more complex systems, as well as effectively disseminating data into the science community, are amongst those that we propose need addressing. However, the plethora of methods currently available means that researchers and monitoring agencies will be able to identify suitable techniques for their needs.
Commentary: Methods for calculating growth trajectories and constructing growth centiles
Authors: Cole T. J.
Published: July 2019

This commentary rounds off a collection of papers focusing on statistical methods for analysing growth data. In two papers, Anderson and colleagues discuss growth trajectory models in early life, using data on height and weight from the HBGDki initiative, while two papers from Ohuma and Altman review methods for centile construction, with data from the INTERGROWTH‐21st project used to provide worked examples of centiles for birthweight and fetal head circumference. Anderson et al focus on four growth trajectory models: quadratic Laird‐Ware, SITAR, brokenstick, and FACE, where the latter two fit better than the former two applied to length data in individuals. On this basis, they recommend brokenstick and FACE for future work. However, they do not discuss the timescale on which the growth models assess growth faltering nor the relevance of this timescale to later health outcome. Models that best detect short‐term fluctuations in growth (brokenstick and FACE) may not necessarily be best at predicting later outcome. It is premature to exclude the quadratic Laird‐Ware or SITAR models, which give a parsimonious summary of growth in individuals over a longer timescale. Ohuma and Altman highlight the poor quality of reporting in fetal centile studies, and they provide recommendations for good practice. Their birthweight centiles example illustrates both the power of the GAMLSS software and its capacity for misuse. The longitudinal fetal head circumference centiles are biased such that 5% of infants are below the 3rd centile and 5% above the 97th.
Flexible Planar Heterojunction Perovskite Solar Cells Fabricated via Sequential Roll‐to‐Roll Microgravure Printing and Slot‐Die Coating Deposition
Authors: Gong Chendi , Tong Sichao , Huang Keqing , Li Hengyue , Huang Han , Zhang Jian , Yang Junliang
Published: July 2019

It is highly desirable to develop large‐scale, low‐cost fabrication processes for flexible perovskite solar cells (f‐PSCs) under ambient conditions for accelerating their potential commercialization. Roll‐to‐roll (R2R) printing technology enables high‐output manufacturing and is well suited for commercially processing f‐PSCs. Herein, triple‐cation f‐PSCs are developed with a planar heterojunction structure consisting of polyethylene‐2,6‐naphthalate/indium tin oxide/SnO2/perovskite/spiro‐OMeTAD/Ag via a combination of R2R microgravure printing and slot‐die coating under ambient conditions with a relative humidity of ≈40%. A mixture of isopropanol and water is used to dilute an as‐purchased SnO2 colloid solution and modify the contact between the electron‐transport layer (ETL) and substrate, leading to a smooth morphology of the R2R‐printed ETL SnO2 layer. Furthermore, suitable intrinsic organic salt additives and the N2 gas blowing‐assisted process are introduced to effectively improve the crystallization of the perovskite, resulting in a high‐quality perovskite film via R2R. After the optimization, the f‐PSCs based on the R2R‐printed ETL SnO2 and the perovskite film under an ambient condition show a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of up to 10.56% and an average PCE of 9.97%. This study provides a potential strategy for commercially fabricating f‐PSCs via a scalable and efficient R2R printing process.
Review of Stability Enhancement for Formamidinium‐Based Perovskites
Authors: Fan Yingping , Meng Hongguang , Wang Li , Pang Shuping
Published: July 2019

Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites (OIHPs) are one of the hottest fields on account of their immense potential for photovoltaics. As one of the most promising OIHPs, formamidinium (FA)‐based perovskites have been developed very fast in the past few years. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) has reached certified 24.2%, which is comparable with that of monocrystalline silicon solar cells. However, the easy formation of nonperovskite δ‐phase formamidinium lead triiodide (FAPbI3) at a low temperature needs to be solved when fabricating a high‐quality light absorber layer. Several strategies have been used to avoid the formation of δ‐phase FAPbI3 and improve phase stability in recent years such as tolerance factor adjustment, dimensional engineering, addictive processing, interfacial modification, defects passivation, and in situ growth. These approaches can enhance the phase stability to some extent; however, their contribution to long‐term stability and especially their real mechanism is still unknown. Herein, the relationships among the tolerance factors, the structure of FAPbI3, and the phase transition phenomenon are summarized. In addition, various methodologies and potential mechanisms for stabilizing α‐phase FAPbI3 at room temperature (RT) are discussed. In conclusion, a series of challenges in the popular processings of perovskite solar cells and their corresponding solutions that help achieve commercialization faster are summarized.