bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood oxytocin concentration positively predicts contagious yawning behavior in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Mariscal Michael G. , Oztan Ozge , Rose Sophie M. , Libove Robin A. , Jackson Lisa P. , Sumiyoshi Raena D. , Trujillo Tara H. , Carson Dean S. , Phillips Jennifer M. , Garner Joseph P. , Hardan Antonio Y. , Parker Karen J.
Published: May 2019

Research suggests that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have reduced empathy, as measured by an impaired contagious yawn response, compared to typically developing (TD) children. Other research has failed to replicate this finding, instead attributing this phenomenon to group differences in attention paid to yawn stimuli. A third possibility is that only a subgroup of children with ASD exhibits the impaired contagious yawn response, and that it can be identified biologically. Here we quantified blood concentrations of the “social” neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) and evaluated yawning behavior and attention rates during a laboratory task in children with ASD (N = 34) and TD children (N = 30) aged 6–12 years. No group difference in contagious yawning behavior was found. However, a blood OXT concentration × group (ASD vs. TD) interaction positively predicted contagious yawning behavior (F1,50 = 7.4987; P = 0.0085). Specifically, blood OXT concentration was positively related to contagious yawning behavior in children with ASD, but not in TD children. This finding was not due to delayed perception of yawn stimuli and was observed whether attention paid to test stimuli and clinical symptom severity were included in the analysis or not. These findings suggest that only a biologically defined subset of children with ASD exhibits reduced empathy, as measured by the impaired contagious yawn response, and that prior conflicting reports of this behavioral phenomenon may be attributable, at least in part, to variable mean OXT concentrations across different ASD study cohorts. Autism Res 2019, 12: 1156–1161. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

People with autism may contagiously yawn (i.e., yawn in response to another's yawn) less often than people without autism. We find that people with autism who have lower levels of blood oxytocin (OXT), a hormone involved in social behavior and empathy, show decreased contagious yawning, but those who have higher blood OXT levels do not differ in contagious yawning from controls. This suggests that decreased contagious yawning may only occur in a biologically defined subset of people with autism.
Journey to mother baby care: Implementation of a combined care/couplet model in a Level 2 neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: de Salaberry Julie , Hait Valoria , Thornton Kimberly , Bolton Megan , Abrams Maria , Shivananda Sandesh , Kiarash Maryam , Osiovich Horacio
Published: May 2019

“Why can't I have my postpartum care in the same room as my baby?” questioned Hilary, a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) “alumni” parent, during a design event for the new British Columbia's Women's Hospital 70 single family room NICU. This simple yet provocative question was nearly dismissed and the idea of a combined care model lost, since most members of the team thought it was simply “not possible.” Hilary did not give up and continued to raise this idea throughout every design event. It was Hilary's fortitude and sharing of her NICU experience that was the inspiration for the MotherBaby Care unit. The voice of one woman has improved the birth experiences of potentially thousands of mothers and their at‐risk newborns. By honoring women's voices and values in health care, positive changes that matter to women, infants, and families can be made. Mothers also shared: “I knew what was best for me was to be with my baby,” “If I could stand up after my C‐section, I would drag my IV pole to be with my baby!”, “Teach me how to take care of my premature baby before I am ready to go home!” MotherBaby Care is a combined care or “couplet” care where one NICU nurse provides care for a postpartum mother and her at‐risk newborn in the Level 2 NICU. This review describes the journey from innovation and design to the implementation of the MotherBaby Care model.
Genomic Imprinting As a Window into Human Language Evolution
Authors: Hitchcock Thomas J. , Paracchini Silvia , Gardner Andy
Published: May 2019

Humans spend large portions of their time and energy talking to one another, yet it remains unclear whether this activity is primarily selfish or altruistic. Here, it is shown how parent‐of‐origin specific gene expression—or “genomic imprinting”—may provide an answer to this question. First, it is shown why, regarding language, only altruistic or selfish scenarios are expected. Second, it is pointed out that an individual's maternal‐origin and paternal‐origin genes may have different evolutionary interests regarding investment into language, and that this intragenomic conflict may drive genomic imprinting which—as the direction of imprint depends upon whether investment into language is relatively selfish or altruistic—may be used to discriminate between these two possibilities. Third, predictions concerning the impact of various mutations and epimutations at imprinted loci on language pathologies are derived. In doing so, a framework is developed that highlights avenues for using intragenomic conflicts to investigate the evolutionary drivers of language.
Metabolic profiles and pharmacokinetics of goitrin in rats through liquid chromatography combined with electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Li Jinhang , Shi Yanhong , Xu Yan , Yang Li , Wang Zhengtao , Han Han , Wang Rui
Published: May 2019

Several chemical and biological studies have revealed R,S‐goitrin as the main bioactive constituent of Isatis indigotica Fort., responsible for antiviral antiendotoxin activity; however, few pharmacokinetic studies have been conducted. To comprehend the kinetics of R,S‐goitrin and promote its curative application, a rapid and sensitive UHPLC–MS/MS method was developed. The selected reaction monitoring transitions were m/z 130.0 → 70.0 for R,S‐goitrin and m/z 181.1 → 124.0 for the internal standard in a positive‐ion mode. The established UHPLC–MS/MS method achieved good linearity for R,S‐goitrin at 10–2000 ng/mL. The intra‐ and interday accuracy levels were within ±9.7%, whereas the intraday and interday precision levels were <11.3%. The extraction recovery, stability and matrix effect were within acceptable limits. The validated method was successfully applied for the pharmacokinetic analysis of R,S‐goitrin in rats after oral administration. Moreover, a total of six metabolites were structurally identified through UHPLC–Q/TOF–MS. The proposed metabolic pathways of R,S‐goitrin in rats involve demethylation, acetylation, glutathionylation and oxygenation.
Sustainable consumption in China: New trends and research interests
Authors: Shao Jing
Published: May 2019

China is currently the largest CO2 emitter in the world and demonstrates one of the highest levels of energy consumption. The sustainable consumption behavior has increased in China, especially in urban cities. Some clear evidence of this includes food purchasing behavior. Recent studies have also suggested that considering full product information transparency, consumers are willing to pay premium prices for products. With this in mind, sustainable consumption must still be facilitated by related policies, regulations, and tools. This study focuses on sustainable consumption behavior in China and collects and analyzes the literature from the last decade (2007–2017) on the topic. In so doing, it highlights new trends and research topics against the background of circular economy development. The method of systematic review is applied. The review is categorized into several main groups: national policies and regulations, the green awareness of consumers, the definition of related concepts, the barriers between sustainable consumption and the circular economy, and the indicators for circular economy assessment in China. Future research directions are discussed. Furthermore, future challenges are addressed from three perspectives: sustainable consumption facilitating the circular economy, “cradle‐to‐cradle” practices, and the link between the European Union and China. This is a fundamental study in the research domain of sustainable consumption behavior. It provides added value that benefits both academic researchers and decision makers. It also sheds light on the further study of sustainable consumption behavior in China from a macroeconomic perspective.
Percutaneous transaxillary approach for peripheral endovascular interventions
Authors: Thawabi Mohammad , Tayal Rajiv , Hawatmeh Amer , Cohen Marc , Wasty Najam
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To assess the safety and feasibility of percutaneous transaxillary (TAx) access for peripheral endovascular interventions.

Background

The common femoral artery (CFA) is the most commonly used access site for peripheral endovascular interventions. However, its use might be precluded in multiple circumstances. The axillary artery is comparable in size to the CFA and is less affected by atherosclerosis. Data regarding its percutaneous use in peripheral endovascular interventions are scarce.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous TAx peripheral endovascular interventions were identified. Demographic and periprocedural data were extracted. Axillary artery access was obtained percutaneously with the arm abducted. A destination sheath was advanced to the relevant vessel. Endovascular interventions were performed using standard devices and techniques. Vascular closure devices were utilized to achieve hemostasis. Primary endpoints included procedural technical success, access‐related complications, and major adverse events (MAEs). Secondary endpoints included cannulation time, total procedure time, fluoroscopy time, and length of stay (LOS).

Results

Percutaneous TAx access was successfully utilized to perform 41 procedures in 29 patients, lacking a suitable conventional access. Three quarters of target vessels were infrainguinal. The lesions of 61% were classified as TransAtlantic Inter‐Society Consensus (TASC) C or D. Access‐related complications occurred in two procedures (5%). No MAEs occurred. Median cannulation time was 12 min, procedure time 135 min, fluoroscopy time 20 min, and LOS 1 day.

Conclusions

When no suitable access exists for lower extremity catheter‐based interventions, percutaneous TAx approach is a feasible and safe alternative. As such facility with this approach is a valuable asset for interventionalists.
Diagnosis of B‐cell lymphoma from gluteal muscle mass
Authors: Shirzadi Alireza
Published: May 2019

A 46‐year‐old man was with a very large mass in his right gluteal muscle and he complained about difficulty in mobility. Incisional biopsy reported a lipomatous lesion; however, clinical presentation was in the favor of muscle sarcoma. Histological analysis after mass excision confirmed the diagnosis of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma.
Erecta dislocation of the shoulder joint—A rare injury: About four cases
Authors: Diallo Malick , Kassé Amadou N. , Mohamed Limam Sid’Ahmed , Sané Jean C. , Dembélé Badara , Sy Mouhamadou H.
Published: May 2019

A nonresolving axillary nerve injury is a rare associated complication to an inferior dislocation of the shoulder joint. This worsen the midterm outcome of the shoulder. So, neurovascular status must be checked by regular clinical testing and by an electromyography in all cases of inferior dislocation of the shoulder joint.
Hydrothermally Synthesized Cobalt Borophosphate as an Electrocatalyst for Water Oxidation in the pH Range from 7 to 14
Authors: Ülker Emine
Published: May 2019

The synthesis of earth‐abundant‐metal‐based, robust, efficient and cost‐effective water oxidation electrocatalysts is necessary for renewable energy conversion processes. In this study, a crystalline cobalt borophosphate (CoBP) was synthesized by reacting CoCl2.6H2O with B2O3 and (NH4)2HPO4 and evaluated as an electrocatalyst for water oxidation catalysis. The electrochemical and electrocatalytic performance of the catalyst towards water oxidation has been investigated by catalyst coating on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) electrode in different pH solution. Cyclic voltammetric and chronoamperometric studies were performed for the investigation of pH effect on the catalytic activity. Post‐catalytic studies indicate that CoBP acts as a pre‐catalyst yielding an active phase during the course of electrolysis in the alkaline conditions. The catalyst demonstrated catalytic activity at pH 13.6 with onset potential of 1.46 V (vs. RHE) and Tafel slope of 57 mV dec−1. Electrochemical studies show that catalyst exhibits a current densities of 1 and 10 mA cm−2 at 384 and 441 mV. The catalyst showed a turnover frequency (TOF) of 1.1×10−2 s−1 at overpotential of 300 mV.
Direct Phenolysis Reactions of Unactivated Amides into Phenolic Esters Promoted by a Heterogeneous CeO2 Catalyst
Authors: Rashed Md. Nurnobi , Siddiki S. M. A. Hakim , Touchy Abeda Sultana , Jamil Md. A. R. , Poly Sharmin Sultana , Toyao Takashi , Maeno Zen , Shimizu Ken‐ichi
Published: May 2019

The direct catalytic esterification of amides that leads to the construction of C−O bonds through the cleavage of amide C−N bonds is a highly attractive strategy in organic synthesis. While aliphatic and aromatic alcohols can be readily used for the alcoholysis of activated and unactivated amides, the introduction of phenols is more challenging due to their lower nucleophilicity in the phenolysis of unactivated amides. Herein, we demonstrate that phenols can be used for the phenolysis of unactivated amides into the corresponding phenolic esters using a simple heterogenous catalytic system based on CeO2 under additive‐free reaction conditions. The method tolerates a broad variety of functional groups (>50 examples) in the substrates. Results of kinetic studies afforded mechanistic insights into the principles governing this reaction, suggesting that the cooperative effects of the acid–base functions of catalysts would be of paramount importance for the efficient progression of the C−N bond breaking process, and consequently, CeO2 showed the best catalytic performance among the catalysts explored.
Multiple‐valued computing by dipole‐dipole coupled proteins
Authors: Rakos Balázs
Published: May 2019

We demonstrate through a simple model validated by molecular dynamics‐based simulations that terahertz‐speed, many‐valued logic computations, and digital signal processing, functional for several cycles of operations are potentially possible with electric field‐effect, dipole‐dipole coupled protein architectures with various dipole moment orientations. Many‐valued logic can be applied in various areas, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics. Furthermore, programmable logic arrays and field programmable gate arrays can also benefit from its implementation. Even top companies like Intel developed circuits based on such logic (eg, StrataFlash and a NOR flash memory). The present study suggests that multivalued logic states can be stored in a protein with the application of proper external electric fields, and digital signal propagation is potentially achievable using dipole‐dipole coupled molecules, placed few nanometers (on the order of 10 nm) apart. Furthermore, we propose a Dronpa protein‐based ternary logic gate, suitable for universal ternary logic computations. The architectures are potentially operational at room temperature. The proposed operational principle is not restricted to proteins only; it might be applied in case of other types of molecules or artificial structures exhibiting similar behavior.
Class AB amplifier with enhanced slew rate and GBW
Authors: Garde M. Pilar , Lopez‐Martin Antonio , Algueta Jose M. , Carvajal Ramon G. , Ramirez‐Angulo Jaime
Published: May 2019

The design of a micropower class AB operational transconductance amplifier with large dynamic current to quiescent current ratio is addressed. It is based on a compact and power‐efficient adaptive biasing circuit and a class AB current follower using the quasi‐floating gate (QFG) technique. The amplifier has been designed and fabricated in a 0.5‐μm CMOS process. Simulation and measurement results show a slew rate (SR) improvement factor versus the class A version larger than 4 for the same supply voltage and bias currents, as well as enhanced small‐signal performance.
Comparing Pool‐seq, Rapture, and GBS genotyping for inferring weak population structure: The American lobster (Homarus americanus) as a case study
Authors: Dorant Yann , Benestan Laura , Rougemont Quentin , Normandeau Eric , Boyle Brian , Rochette Rémy , Bernatchez Louis
Published: May 2019

Unraveling genetic population structure is challenging in species potentially characterized by large population size and high dispersal rates, often resulting in weak genetic differentiation. Genotyping a large number of samples can improve the detection of subtle genetic structure, but this may substantially increase sequencing cost and downstream bioinformatics computational time. To overcome this challenge, alternative, cost‐effective sequencing approaches, namely Pool‐seq and Rapture, have been developed. We empirically measured the power of resolution and congruence of these two methods in documenting weak population structure in nonmodel species with high gene flow comparatively to a conventional genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS) approach. For this, we used the American lobster (Homarus americanus) as a case study. First, we found that GBS, Rapture, and Pool‐seq approaches gave similar allele frequency estimates (i.e., correlation coefficient over 0.90) and all three revealed the same weak pattern of population structure. Yet, Pool‐seq data showed FST estimates three to five times higher than GBS and Rapture, while the latter two methods returned similar FST estimates, indicating that individual‐based approaches provided more congruent results than Pool‐seq. We conclude that despite higher costs, GBS and Rapture are more convenient approaches to use in the case of species exhibiting very weak differentiation. While both GBS and Rapture approaches provided similar results with regard to estimates of population genetic parameters, GBS remains more cost‐effective in project involving a relatively small numbers of genotyped individuals (e.g., <1,000). Overall, this study illustrates the complexity of estimating genetic differentiation and other summary statistics in complex biological systems characterized by large population size and migration rates.
Sacubitril/valsartan eligibility and outcomes in the ESC‐EORP‐HFA Heart Failure Long‐Term Registry: bridging between European Medicines Agency/Food and Drug Administration label, the PARADIGM‐HF trial, ESC guidelines, and real world
Authors: Kapelios Chris J. , Lainscak Mitja , Savarese Gianluigi , Laroche Cécile , Seferovic Petar , Ruschitzka Frank , Coats Andrew , Anker Stefan D. , Crespo‐Leiro Maria G. , Filippatos Gerasimos , Piepoli Massimo F. , Rosano Giuseppe , Zanolla Luisa , Aguiar Carlos , Murin Jan , Leszek Przemyslaw , McDonagh Theresa , Maggioni Aldo P. , Lund Lars H. ,   on behalf of the Heart Failure Long‐Term Registry Investigators
Published: May 2019

Aims

To assess the proportion of patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) who are eligible for sacubitril/valsartan (LCZ696) based on the European Medicines Agency/Food and Drug Administration (EMA/FDA) label, the PARADIGM‐HF trial and the 2016 ESC guidelines, and the association between eligibility and outcomes.

Methods and results

Outpatients with HFrEF in the ESC‐EORP‐HFA Long‐Term Heart Failure (HF‐LT) Registry between March 2011 and November 2013 were considered. Criteria for LCZ696 based on EMA/FDA label, PARADIGM‐HF and ESC guidelines were applied. Of 5443 patients, 2197 and 2373 had complete information for trial and guideline eligibility assessment, and 84%, 12% and 12% met EMA/FDA label, PARADIGM‐HF and guideline criteria, respectively. Absent PARADIGM‐HF criteria were low natriuretic peptides (21%), hyperkalemia (4%), hypotension (7%) and sub‐optimal pharmacotherapy (74%); absent Guidelines criteria were LVEF>35% (23%), insufficient NP levels (30%)

and sub‐optimal pharmacotherapy (82%); absent label criteria were absence of symptoms (New York Heart Association class I). When a daily requirement of ACEi/ARB ≥ 10 mg enalapril (instead of ≥ 20 mg) was used, eligibility rose from 12% to 28% based on both PARADIGM‐HF and guidelines. One‐year heart failure hospitalization was higher (12% and 17% vs. 12%) and all‐cause mortality lower (5.3% and 6.5% vs. 7.7%) in registry eligible patients compared to the enalapril arm of PARADIGM‐HF.

Conclusions

Among outpatients with HFrEF in the ESC‐EORP‐HFA HF‐LT Registry, 84% met label criteria, while only 12% and 28% met PARADIGM‐HF and guideline criteria for LCZ696 if requiring ≥ 20 mg and ≥ 10 mg enalapril, respectively. Registry patients eligible for LCZ696 had greater heart failure hospitalization but lower mortality rates than the PARADIGM‐HF enalapril group.
Nanostructured Gold Microelectrodes for Non‐enzymatic Glucose Sensor
Authors: Hovancová Jana , Šišoláková Ivana , Vanýsek Petr , Oriňaková Renáta , Shepa Ivan , Vojtko Marek , Oriňak Andrej
Published: May 2019

A novel, highly stable, selective, and sensitive non‐enzymatic glucose sensor was developed by simple and effective modification procedure. The modification of gold microelectrodes by electrochemically deposited gold nanoparticles resulted in increase of surface area up to 37 %. The nanostructured surfaces of the gold microelectrodes obtained by different modifications were studied by confocal microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The gold nanoclusters exhibit great electrocatalytic properties toward glucose with a wide linear range from 0.5 to 50 mM, with a limit of detection 218 μM, and sensitivity of 185.2 mA mM−1cm−2. Moreover, the modified microelectrodes display good reproducibility, stability, and selectivity in the presence of poisoning compounds. Due to the small dimensions of gold microelectrodes and a very small volume of the sample, the microelectrodes make a contribution to miniaturisation of the system.
Performance evaluation of hybrid solar chimneys for fresh water production
Authors: Hoseini Hamideh , Mehdipour Ramin
Published: May 2019

The hybrid solar chimneys power plant can produce electric energy and fresh water simultaneously. The purpose of this research is to numerically analyze the hybrid solar power plant, using heat transfer mathematical models. In this study, performance of two different cases for power generation is investigated. First, combination of solar chimney and humidifier is investigated, and second, combination of the solar chimney, humidifier, and a condenser is investigated. The effect of solar radiation and water temperature used in the humidifier on the produced electric power and fresh water is investigated. Obtained results of the first case show that adding moisture in the collector entry, it can decrease air weight as much as the radiation of the sun. According to the results obtained, in the integrating solar chimney with the humidifier, generated power increases by higher solar radiation in all three modes, although the increased power of the first case with spraying water of 40, 20, and 10°C is almost 4 times, 2.7 times, and 1.3 times higher in comparison with the classical solar chimney. It is found for the second case that, for increased solar radiation in the above three cases, the humidifier output air temperature increases and the amount of produced water and relative humidity at the output of the humidifier decreases.
Mapping the pathways between recreational cannabis use and mood disorders: A Behaviour Sequence Analysis approach
Authors: Keatley David A. , Walters Isobel , Parke Adrian , Joyce Tara , D. Clarke David
Published: May 2019

Issues Addressed

Although cannabis use is still illegal in most places around the world, it remains a widely used drug. The recreational use of cannabis has been linked to multiple mental wellbeing issues, including psychosis, depression and anxiety. The objective of this study was to investigate the temporal dynamics of cannabis use in relation to mental health issues.

Methods

The current research uses a novel methodological approach, behaviour sequence analysis, to understand the temporal relationship between recreational cannabis use and surrounding issues related to mental wellbeing, in a sample of 61 participants who had written autobiographical accounts online.

Results

The results indicated a bi‐directional temporal ordering between cannabis use and mood disorders. Cannabis use preceded psychosis and can also exacerbate symptoms of psychosis, depression and anxiety. Findings also suggested that low self‐esteem may be a predictor of future cannabis use.

Conclusions

Research shows a link between mood disorders and recreational cannabis use. The BSA method can be used in applied settings to map pathways in individuals’ life histories.

So what?

The current study shows the sequential links between cannabis use and psychosis, depression and anxiety. Results show there is no single clear pathway and clinical practitioners should focus on a wider range of factors in individual's case histories.
Circulating sex hormone levels and colorectal cancer risk in Japanese postmenopausal women: The JPHC nested case–control study
Authors: Mori Nagisa , Sawada Norie , Iwasaki Motoki , Yamaji Taiki , Goto Atsushi , Shimazu Taichi , Inoue Manami , Murphy Neil , Gunter Marc J , Tsugane Shoichiro
Published: May 2019

Previous epidemiological studies evaluated endogenous sex hormone levels and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk have yielded inconsistent results. Also, it is unknown if consumption of dietary isoflavones may influence the endogenous sex hormones and CRC relationships. We conducted a nested case–control study within the JPHC Study Cohort II wherein 11,644 women provided blood samples at the 5‐year follow‐up survey. We selected two matched controls for each case from the cohort (185 CRC cases and 361 controls). Multivariable conditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs), 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between circulating sex hormone levels and CRC risk. Comparing extreme tertiles, circulating testosterone levels were positively associated with CRC risk (OR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.11–3.99, p for trend = 0.03). Levels of estradiol, SHBG, and progesterone were not associated with CRC risk. In a subgroup analysis by dietary isoflavone intake, SHBG levels were positively associated with CRC risk among those with low total isoflavone intake (p for trend = 0.03), with a statistically nonsignificant inverse association among those with high total isoflavone intake (p for trend = 0.22; p for interaction = 0.002). Endogenous levels of testosterone were positively associated with CRC among postmenopausal women. The association of endogenous SHBG with CRC development may be altered by the level of dietary isoflavone intake.
A novel automated magnetic resonance image segmentation approach based on elliptical gamma mixture model for breast lumps detection
Authors: Biswas Biswajit , Ghosh Swarup Kr , Ghosh Anupam
Published: May 2019

This article introduces a novel semisupervised automated segmentation approach for breast magnetic resonance (MR) image on multicore CPU‐GPU systems. The basic idea of the proposed method is clustering‐based semisupervised classifier devised by elliptical gamma mixture model (EGMM). Parameters of EGMM are identified by the iterative log‐expectation maximization (EM) algorithm. The suggested classifier labels the groups of voxels in an input image first and then classifies the image slices using the EGMM. Two different implementations of the proposed algorithm have been developed based on two different types of high‐performance computing architectures such as graphics processing units (GPUs) and multicore processors. To realize the real‐time segmentation performance of our algorithm with two distinctive architecture, we have tested a set of breast MR images collected from MedPix. Comparison between two architectures in terms of segmentation performance and computational cost is assessed by the analysis of simulation and experimental results.
Consumer awareness and utilization of clinical services, and their satisfaction and loyalty with community pharmacies: Analysis of a US nationwide survey
Authors: Parker Tavan , Tak Casey R. , Kim Kibum , Feehan Michael , Munger Mark A
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Community pharmacies are the most accessible health care service locations. While providing greater patient health care access, there is a need for understanding consumer awareness and utilization of pharmacy‐provided services and their satisfaction and loyalty to the pharmacy setting.

Objectives

To determine consumer utilization and awareness of services and to identify what factors influence satisfaction and loyalty within a community pharmacy.

Methods

A 30‐minute online survey of 9202 adult consumers across the United States was conducted. Patient's self‐reported awareness and utilization, satisfaction with their community pharmacies, and likelihood to recommend their current pharmacy were scored. The likelihood to recommend scores was translated into a Net Promoter Score (NPS). Regression analysis was utilized to identify associated independent variables associated with consumer awareness, utilization, satisfaction, and loyalty to their community pharmacy.

Results

Consumer utilization of medication distribution services was more common than use of clinical services, even though many consumers are aware of available clinical services. Consumer satisfaction with and loyalty to their community pharmacy was ranked high (8.67 ± 1.39; 8.56 + 1.66 [both strongly agree], respectively). Trusting the pharmacist to provide accurate medication and general health information were ranked as strongly agree (8.25 ± 2.04) and moderately agree (6.42 ± 2.84). Consumer's NPS (+49.9) was moderately‐high with a major proportion being promoters (60.1%) of their community pharmacy. Multivariate regression showed that community pharmacy satisfaction and loyalty were modestly associated with advanced age, the provision of accurate medication and health information, and medication dispensing functions.

Conclusion

Satisfaction and loyalty are vital aspects in the delivery and efficacy of health care, especially in the community pharmacy setting. The results of this study show that consumers are promotors of community pharmacies and that pharmacists are an important source for health and medication information.
Retracted: Smad4 gene silencing enhances the chemosensitivity of human lymphoma cells to adriamycin via inhibition of the activation of transforming growth factor β signaling pathway
Authors: Li Qiuhuan , Liu Xiaoyu , Zhao Chuanli
Published: May 2019

There are diverse investigations focused on the therapies of lymphoma. Our research was taken to identify the effects of lentiviral‐mediated Smad4 gene silencing on chemosensitivity of human lymphoma cells to adriamycin (ADM) via transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signaling pathway. Raji/ADM cells were cultured and infected with lentiviral particles Smad4‐short hairpin (shRNA) and control‐shRNA. Then, the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels of TGFβ signaling pathway–related factors (Smad4, Smad3, cyclinE, cyclinD1, and p21) in Raji/ADM cells were determined. The effect of Smad4‐shRNA on cell viability, invasion and migration, and apoptosis were also detected. Compared with the Raji group, increased mRNA and protein levels of Smad4, Smad3, cyclinE, cyclinD1, enhanced cell proliferation, migration and invasion as well as decreased mRNA, and protein levels of p21 and cell apoptosis rate were found in the Raji/ADM and control‐shRNA groups. However, Smad4 gene silencing resulted in decreased mRNA and protein levels of Smad4, Smad3, cyclinE, and cyclinD1 along with inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion but increased expression of p21 together with cell apoptosis. Collectively, Smad4 gene silencing can inhibit the activation of TGFβ signaling pathway, thereby enhancing the chemosensitivity of human lymphoma cells to ADM.
Insights into the mode of flavin mononucleotide binding and catalytic mechanism of bacterial chromate reductases: A molecular dynamics simulation study
Authors: Pradhan Sukanta Kumar , Singh Nihar Ranjan , Dehury Budheswar , Panda Debashis , Modi Mahendra Kumar , Thatoi Hrudayanath
Published: May 2019

Enzymes from natural sources protect the environment via complex biological mechanisms, which aid in reductive immobilization of toxic metals including chromium. Nevertheless, progress was being made in elucidating high‐resolution crystal structures of reductases and their binding with flavin mononucleotide (FMN) to understand the underlying mechanism of chromate reduction. Therefore, herein, we employed molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, principal component analysis (PCA), and binding free energy calculations to understand the dynamics behavior of these enzymes with FMN. Six representative chromate reductases in monomeric and dimeric forms were selected to study the mode, dynamics, and energetic component that drive the FMN binding process. As evidenced by MD simulation, FMN prefers to bind the cervix formed between the catalytic domain surrounded by strong conserved hydrogen bonding, electrostatic, and hydrophobic contacts. The slight movement and reorientation of FMN resulted in breakage of some crucial H‐bonds and other nonbonded contacts, which were well compensated with newly formed H‐bonds, electrostatic, and hydrophobic interactions. The critical residues aiding in tight anchoring of FMN within dimer were found to be strongly conserved in the bacterial system. The molecular mechanics combined with the Poisson‐Boltzmann surface area binding free energy of the monomer portrayed that the van der Waals and electrostatic energy contribute significantly to the total free energy, where, the polar solvation energy opposes the binding of FMN. The proposed proximity relationships between enzyme and FMN binding site presented in this study will open up better avenues to engineer enzymes with optimized chromate reductase activity for sustainable bioremediation of heavy metals.
Al18F labeled sulfonamide‐conjugated positron emission tomography tracer in vivo tumor‐targeted imaging
Authors: Liu Fan , Zhao Biao , Xia Xiao‐Tian , Yan Jia‐Rui , Yu Fa‐Quan , Yan Guo‐Ping , Hu Jia , Chen Si , Wang Yu‐Fang , Liu Hui , Lan Xiao‐Li , Zhang Yong‐Xue
Published: May 2019

An ideal positron emission tomography (PET) tracer should be highly extractable by the tumor tissue or organ that contains low toxicity and can provide high‐resolution images in vivo. In this work, the aim was to evaluate the application of Al18F‐labeled 1,4,7‐triazacyclononane‐1,4,7‐triacetic acid containing sulfonamide group (18F‐Al‐NOTA‐SN) as a potential tumor‐targeting signal‐enhanced radioactive tracer in PET. SN as a tumor‐targeting group was incorporated to NOTA to make a ligand. Subsequently, this ligand reacted with Na18F and AlCl3 to produce a compound 18F‐Al‐NOTA‐SN. This compound was further characterized and its property in regard to cell cytotoxicity assay, microPET imaging, biodistribution, cell uptake assay, and tumor selectivity in vitro and in vivo, was also investigated. 18F‐Al‐NOTA‐SN possessed low cell cytotoxicity and uptake to COS‐7 and 293T healthy cells and high cell cytotoxicity and uptake to MDA‐MB‐231, HepG2, and HeLa tumor cells in vitro. Moreover, 18F‐Al‐NOTA‐SN showed good tumor‐targeting property and high PET signal enhancement of HeLa tumors, liver, and kidneys in mice, as well as the uptake ratios of tumor to blood and tumor to muscle, were 4.98 and 3.87, respectively. 18F‐Al‐NOTA‐SN can be accepted to be kidney and liver eliminated earlier and show a potential tumor‐targeting signal‐enhanced radioactive tracer in PET.
External quality assessment for PML‐RARα detection in acute promyelocytic leukemia: Findings and summary
Authors: Wu Qisheng , Zhang Rui , Fu Yu , Zhang Jiawei , Chen Kun , Li Jinming
Published: May 2019

Background

The confirmation of clinical diagnosis, molecular remission, and sequential minimal residual disease monitoring required PML‐RARα detection in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). The current status of PML‐RARα detection in various laboratories remains unknown.

Methods

In 2018, external quality assessment (EQA) for PML‐RARα detection was carried out in China. Three EQA sample panels for PML‐RARα isoform L/S/V were prepared by different mock leukocyte samples. The performances of PML‐RARα detection, including admission screening, and qualitative and quantitative detection by real‐time quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT‐qPCR), were assessed based on APL simulated clinical case.

Results

The mock leukocyte samples met the requirements of a clinically qualified sample for PML‐RARα EQA panel. Among the laboratories, 13/50 (26.0%) were “competent,” 21/50 (42%) classified as “acceptable,” and 16/50 (32.0%) classified as “improvable.” One (1/50, 2.0%) laboratory reported one screening mistake. Twenty‐six (26/50, 52.0%) laboratories reported 29 false‐positive and 19 false‐negative results. Twenty‐three (23/50, 46.0%) laboratories reported 42 quantitative incorrect results.

Conclusion

Significant differences were not found in PML‐RARα detection performance among laboratories that used different extraction methods. The performances of qualitative and quantitative RT‐qPCR detection were worse accurate for PML‐RARα isoform V. Quantitative variation was higher for low‐level samples. Further continuous external assessment and education are needed in the management of PML‐RARα detection.
Systematic analysis of differentially methylated expressed genes and site‐speciﬁc methylation as potential prognostic markers in head and neck cancer
Authors: Bai Guohui , Song Jukun , Yuan Yiwen , Chen Zhu , Tian Yuan , Yin Xinhai , Niu Yuming , Liu Jianguo
Published: May 2019

Head and neck cancer (HNC) remains one of the most malignant tumors with a significantly high mortality. DNA methylation exerts a vital role in the prognosis of HNC. In this study, we try to screen abnormal differential methylation genes (DMGs) and pathways in Head–Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma via integral bioinformatics analysis. Data of gene expression microarrays and gene methylation microarrays were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas database. Aberrant DMGs were identified by the R Limma package. We conducted the Cox regression analysis to select the prognostic aberrant DMGs and site‐speciﬁc methylation. Five aberrant DMGs were recognized that significantly correlated with overall survival. The prognostic model was constructed based on five DMGs (PAX9, STK33, GPR150, INSM1, and EPHX3). The five DMG models acted as prognostic biomarkers for HNC. The area under the curve based on the five DMGs predicting 5‐year survival is 0.665. Moreover, the correlation between the DMGs/site‐speciﬁc methylation and gene expression was also explored. The findings demonstrated that the five DMGs can be used as independent prognostic biomarkers for predicting the prognosis of patients with HNC. Our study might lay the groundwork for further mechanism exploration in HNC and may help identify diagnostic biomarkers for early stage HNC.
99Mo recoil atoms yield in the 100Mo(p,x) reaction on cyclotron irradiation of Mo nanofilms
Authors: Artyukhov Aleksei Aleksandrovich , Zagriadsky Vladimir Anatolevich , Kravets Iakov Maksimovich , Kuznetsova Tatiana Mikhailovna , Latushkin Sergei Terentevich , Menshikov Leonid Ieronimovich , Udalova Tatiana Andreevna , Chuvilin Dmitrii Iurevich
Published: May 2019

We study the possibility of increasing the specific activity of 99Mo produced by irradiating molybdenum targets with the use of the Szilard‐Chalmers effect. According to the Szilard‐Chalmers effect, recoil atoms of the 99Mo radionuclide can be produced in nuclear reactions and retained in surrounding buffer substance. The objective of our work is to measure the yield of recoil atoms in the buffer as a function of the molybdenum layer thickness. The yield of recoil 99Mo atoms in the 100Mo(p,x)99Mo nuclear reaction as a function of metallic molybdenum nanolayer thickness has been measured. Measurements were carried out after irradiation of nanolayers in the U‐150 cyclotron with 28‐MeV protons. Nanolayers of molybdenum with thickness of 30 to 220 nm were produced by magnetron sputtering on sapphire plates. The yield of the mass of 99Mo recoil atoms was found to be the highest with the molybdenum layer thickness of 80 ± 5 nm. The enrichment factor (EF) has been defined as a ratio of the 99Mo collector specific activity (SA) to the entire target SA before separation as EF = 1200 ± 150. The specific activity of 99Mo produced in the collector was estimated to be approximately equal to 25 Ci·g−1.
Identifying nonsmall‐cell lung tumours bearing the T790M EGFR TKI resistance mutation using PET imaging
Authors: Goggi Julian L. , Haslop Anna , Ramasamy Boominathan , Cheng Peter , Jiang Lingfan , Soh Vanessa , Robins Edward G.
Published: May 2019

Specific mutations significantly affect response to epidermal growth factor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR‐TKI) treatment in lung cancer patients. Identifying patients with these mutations remains a major clinical challenge. EGFR T790M mutation, which conveys resistance to in the present study, [18F]FEWZ was assessed in vitro to determine efficacy relative to the starting compound and in vivo to measure the biodistribution and specificity of binding to EGFR wild‐type, L858R and T790M bearing tumours. [18F]FEWZ is the first evidence of a radiolabeled third generation anilinopyrimidine‐derived tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting T790M mutation bearing tumours in vivo.
Radiomics model of contrast‐enhanced MRI for early prediction of acute pancreatitis severity
Authors: Lin Qiao , JI Yi‐fan , Chen Yong , Sun Huan , Yang Dan‐dan , Chen Ai‐li , Chen Tian‐wu , Zhang Xiao Ming
Published: May 2019

Background

Computed tomography (CT) or MR images may cause the severity of early acute pancreatitis (AP) to be underestimated. As an innovative image analysis method, radiomics may have potential clinical value in early prediction of AP severity.

Purpose

To develop a contrast‐enhanced (CE) MRI‐based radiomics model for the early prediction of AP severity.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

A total of 259 early AP patients were divided into two cohorts, a training cohort (99 nonsevere, 81 severe), and a validation cohort (43 nonsevere, 36 severe).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T, T1‐weighted CE‐MRI.

Assessment

Radiomics features were extracted from the portal venous‐phase images. The "Boruta" algorithm was used for feature selection and a support vector machine model was established with optimal features. The MR severity index (MRSI), the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II, and the bedside index for severity in acute pancreatitis (BISAP) were calculated to predict the severity of AP.

Statistical Tests

Independent t‐test, Mann–Whitney U‐test, chi‐square test, Fisher's exact tests, Boruta algorithm, receiver operating characteristic analysis, DeLong test.

Results

Eleven potential features were chosen to develop the radiomics model. In the training cohort, the area under the curve (AUC) of the radiomics model, APACHE II, BISAP, and MRSI were 0.917, 0.750, 0.744, and 0.749, and the P value of AUC comparisons between the radiomics model and scoring systems were all less than 0.001. In the validation cohort, the AUC of the radiomics model, APACHE II, BISAP, and MRSI were 0.848, 0.725, 0.708, and 0.719, respectively, and the P value of AUC comparisons were 0.96 (radiomics vs. APACHE II), 0.40 (radiomics vs. BISAP), and 0.46 (radiomics vs. MRSI).

Data Conclusion

The radiomics model had good performance in the early prediction of AP severity.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:397–406.
Water‐Triggered Rapid Release of Biocide with Enhanced Antimicrobial Activity in Biodiesel
Authors: Pei Hao , Abbaspourrad Alireza , Zhang Weixia , Wu Zhengwei , Weitz David A.
Published: May 2019

Biodiesel inherently contains more water than mineral diesel and as a result microbial contamination is a major problem that hinders its widespread application. The current method of removing the microbial contamination is direct addition of biocide. However, this method cannot enrich the water phase with biocide rapidly enough, leading to unavoidable overdosing of biocide and environmental issues. Here, biocide is encapsulated within hydrogel microparticles with a water‐triggered release feature to improve antimicrobial efficiency of biocide in biodiesel. To demonstrate the water‐triggered release mechanism, a green dye is encapsulated within the microparticles. The encapsulated dye remains inside the microparticles for more than 6 weeks when the microparticles are stored in oil phase; however, the dye releases in 4 min when the microparticles contact water. Using this water‐triggered release strategy, biocide is successfully delivered to the water phase in biodiesel. The encapsulated biocide shows higher antimicrobial efficacy than that of free biocide, in both short‐term and long‐term experiments. The possibility of scaling up the production of hydrogel microparticles using bulk emulsification method is also explored. Moreover, the water‐triggered release strategy can be used for releasing other water‐soluble functional materials. This opens opportunities for a wide range of encapsulation and controlled delivery applications.
Comparison of Methods to Verify Upstream Passage by Trout at Remediated Culverts in Four Rocky Mountain Streams
Authors: Peterson Douglas P. , Neville Helen M.
Published: May 2019

The removal or remediation of thousands of culverts at road–stream crossings to restore connectivity is a major conservation investment in aquatic systems in North America. Effectiveness monitoring is necessary to confirm that passage has been restored for the species of interest and to justify project costs. We compared the performance of (1) recapture of batch-marked fish by backpack electrofishing, (2) recapture of PIT-tagged fish by electrofishing, (3) detection of PIT-tagged fish by a mobile antenna, and (4) detection of PIT-tagged fish at stationary antennas for verifying upstream passage of native Westslope Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi (WCT) and nonnative Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis at remediated culverts in four Rocky Mountain streams. Generally, detection probability at stationary antennas was higher (range = 0.74–0.97) than capture by electrofishing (range = 0.24–0.77) or detection by the mobile antenna (range = 0.47–0.66). All four methods confirmed upstream passage by trout that were originally marked or tagged below the culvert, although overall recapture rates were low (≤20%). During summer and early fall, the continuously sampling stationary antennas detected more than twice as many PIT-tagged trout moving upstream through the culvert than either the mobile antenna or the electrofisher. Upstream movement by PIT-tagged trout was first detected by stationary antennas 1–10 d after tagging. For all methods, upstream passage was most frequently detected for fish that were marked or tagged in the 100-m reach adjacent to the culvert. The relative cost of the four mark–recapture methods to evaluate upstream passage of age-1 and older WCT was compared with the cost of “sib-split,” a genetic method based on pedigree analysis, which was used previously to evaluate passage of age-0 WCT in the study streams. Stationary antennas, the mobile antenna, and sib-split were comparatively expensive for a single-year study because of PIT equipment and laboratory costs, respectively, and electrofishing was less than half the cost.