bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence and molecular characterization of multidrug resistance in Gram‐negative bacteria of clinical importance from pharmaceutical wastewaters in South‐western Nigeria
Authors: Obasi Avemaria Ifeoma , Ugoji Esther Obiageli , Nwachukwu SimonCyril Ugwumba
Published: August 2019

Background

The occurrence of antimicrobial resistant bacteria in the environment presents a major threat to public health because it reduces the effectiveness of antimicrobial treatment.

Aims

The study was set out to molecularly characterize Gram‐negative bacteria with multidrug resistance and resistance determinants from pharmaceutical wastewaters in Nigeria.

Materials and Methods

Susceptibility of the bacterial isolates to 25 antibiotics belonging to 10 categories was tested using the disc diffusion method and Vitek 2. Screening for AmpC, Extended Spectrum Beta‐lactamase and carbapenemase production was done by Polymerase Chain Reaction and sequencing.

Results

Ninety‐seven Gram‐negative bacteria, comprising 27 Enterobacteria and 70 nonfermenter bacterial isolates were detected. Antibiotic resistance observed was highest (70.1%) for sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim and multidrug resistance was revealed in 17 bacterial strains (Klebsiella pneumoniae[7],Enterobacter gergoviae[3],Sphingomonas paucimobilis[1],Empedobacter brevis[1],Chryseobacterium indologenes[1],Pseudomonas aeruginosa[1],Burkholderia cenocepacia[1],Burkholderia cepaciaandStenotrophomonas maltophilia[1]). Extended Spectrum Beta‐lactamase (CTX‐M‐15, SHV‐12, SHV‐2) was positive for 6 K. pneumoniae strains; there were neither AmpC detected nor the production of carbapenamase in all isolates tested.

Discussion

The study confirmed the presence of multidrug resistant Gram‐negative bacteria with resistance determinants in wastewaters from pharmaceutical industries in Nigeria. Compounds of the wastewater may directly select or co‐select these multidrug resistance strains.

Conclusion

The output of drug resistant bacteria into the environment is a potential risk to public health and may facilitate the spread of resistant genes.
Taming Copper(I) Cyanate and Selenocyanate with N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Dodds Christopher A. , Kennedy Alan R. , Thompson Ross
Published: August 2019

The synthesis of N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) adducts of copper(I) cyanate and copper(I) selenocyanate has been successfully achieved via the reaction of [Cu(NHC)Cl] with silver(I) cyanate and potassium selenocyanate respectively. Three copper(I) cyanate complexes [Cu(IXy)(NCO)] (1), [Cu(IPr)(NCO)] (2) and [Cu(SIPr)(NCO)] (3) [IXy = 1,3‐bis(2,6‐dimethylphenyl)imidazol‐2‐ylidene, IPr = 1,3‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)imidazol‐2‐ylidene, SIPr = 1,3‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)imidazolin‐2‐ylidene] have been prepared and fully characterised. The X‐ray crystal structures reveal the three complexes to be monomeric species in which the cyanate ligand is end‐on, N‐bound. These complexes, represent the first examples of monomeric copper(I) cyanate complexes. In addition, the copper(I) selenocyanate species [Cu(IPr)(NCSe)]2 (4) was prepared and fully characterised. The X‐ray crystal structure reveals that a centrosymmetric dimer is formed with bridging selenocyanate ligands bound through both N and Se. This is in contrast to the monomeric structure observed in the previously reported and related complex [Cu(IPr)(NCS)]. Complex 4 represents a rare example of a stable dimeric adduct of copper(I) selenocyanate.
Synthesis, Characterization, and HER Activity of Pendant Diamine Derivatives of NiATSM
Authors: Calvary Caleb A. , Hietsoi Oleksandr , Strain Jacob M. , Mashuta Mark S. , Spurgeon Joshua M. , Buchanan Robert M. , Grapperhaus Craig A.
Published: August 2019

A pair of bis‐thiosemicarbazonato‐Ni(II) complexes with pendant polyamines, (N,N′‐(dimethylethylenediaminothiosemi‐carbazonato)‐4‐(methylthiosemi‐carbazonato)butane‐2,3‐diimine)‐nickel(II) (1) and (N,N′‐bis(dimethylethyl‐enediaminothiosemi‐carbazonato)butane‐2,3‐diimine)‐nickel(II) (3), have been synthesized. Methylation at the terminal amines yields the cationic derivatives 2 and 4. All complexes are fully characterized by spectroscopic, electrochemical, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction methods. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction studies on all four Ni(II) complexes confirm a square planar Ni(II) framework with no significant changes in the coordination environment as a function of the pendant groups. Spectroscopic studies are consistent with a similar electronic structure in all complexes. However, electrochemical investigations reveal significant cathodic shifts in the Ni(II)L/Ni(II)L·– and Ni(II)L·–/Ni(I)L·2– reduction potentials of the methylated vs. non‐methylated species. The HER activity of all four nickel complexes were evaluated in acetonitrile with glacial acetic acid. The 3 complex was shown to have the highest activity with a TOF of 6.3 × 103 s‐1, an overpotential of 0.56 V, and faradaic efficiency of 100 %.
Cyanoborates
Authors: Ignat'ev Nikolai V. , Finze Maik
Published: August 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue are Nikolai Ignat'ev and Maik Finze from Julius‐Maximilians‐Universität Würzburg, Germany. The cover image shows molecular structures of selected cyanoborate anions.
Stereoselective Synthesis of 3,5‐Dihydroxypyrrolidin‐2‐ones Through a Photoinduced Multicomponent Reaction Followed by Dimerization
Authors: Bergamaschi Enrico , Capurro Pietro , Lambruschini Chiara , Riva Renata , Basso Andrea
Published: August 2019

A photoinduced reaction between diazoketones, isocyanides and silanols, followed by aldol dimerization of the resulting multicomponent adduct, affords polyfunctionalized 3,5‐dihydroxypyrrolidin‐2‐one heterocycles in a straightforward manner. Six new bonds and two quaternary carbons are formed in just two steps with this complexity‐generating methodology. A high degree of stereoselectivity is also observed, as a result of the mild conditions employed. Moreover, the 3,5‐dihydroxypyrrolidin‐2‐one scaffold can be found in two families of biologically relevant natural products, namely anchinopeptolides and eusynstyelamides. The synthetic approach herein described appears to be a very convenient route for the preparation of their analogues.
Toleration and prejudice‐reduction: Two ways of improving intergroup relations
Authors: Verkuyten Maykel , Yogeeswaran Kumar , Adelman Levi
Published: August 2019

While a large body of social psychological research has shed light on the nature of prejudice and how to reduce it, we argue that such work does not address situations of cultural or religious outgroup beliefs and practices that are considered incompatible with one's own. The present theoretical article contrasts a prejudice‐reduction approach with a toleration‐based approach to consider the differences each have with regard to the attitude object they focus upon, the perceived reasonableness of the attitude, and the behavioral consequences each may lead to. In doing so, we consider the psychological processes involved in whether the negative attitude leads to negative actions. We conclude by arguing that a toleration‐based approach forms an important addition to the psychological thinking about cultural diversity and intergroup relations. Collectively, the present work makes a novel contribution to the social psychological literature by stimulating theory development and raising novel questions for empirical research.
Assessment of a stand‐alone hybrid solar and wind energy‐based electric vehicle charging station with battery, hydrogen, and ammonia energy storages
Authors: Al Wahedi Abdulla , Bicer Yusuf
Published: August 2019

Since the main objective of expanding the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) usage is to reduce the dependency on carbon‐based fuels, it is essential to consider eco‐friendly and renewable sources to generate the power needed for charging those vehicles. This study suggests and analyzes a stand‐alone solar and wind energy‐driven integrated system with electro/chemical energy storage to provide independent and uninterruptable power supply for EV charging stations. Due to the intermittent nature of the utilized renewable energy sources, energy storage is a key concern to be considered in this study. Therefore, in addition to batteries, hydrogen and ammonia are considered as energy storage media, which can be converted into electricity through fuel cells on demand. The results show that with selected commercialized photovoltaic power plant covering an area of about 1500 m2, a 250 kW rated wind turbine, 650 kWh Li‐ion storage batteries, 30 m3 storage of H2 in gas form, and 5 m3 storage of NH3 in liquid form, a grid‐independent charging station sufficient for fast charging of 50 number of EVs per day can be achieved. Additional suggestions are proposed to better manage the energy storage within the charging stations based on short‐term and long‐term operations.
Justifying the Construct Definition for a New Language Proficiency Assessment: The RedesignedTOEIC Bridge®Tests—Framework Paper
Authors: Schmidgall Jonathan , Oliveri Maria Elena , Duke Trina , Carter Grissom Elizabeth
Published: August 2019

One of the most critical steps in the test development process is defining the construct, or the knowledge, skills, or abilities, to be assessed. This foundational step provides the basis for initial assumptions about the meaning of test scores and serves as a reference for subsequent validity research. In this paper, we describe the purpose of the redesignedTOEIC Bridge® 4 skills assessments and elaborate the theoretical basis of its construct definition. We also describe how an evidence‐centered design (ECD) approach was used to develop the redesigned TOEIC Bridge assessments and the first stage of that approach, the domain analysis. The domain analysis begins by elaborating a clearer definition of the context in which language is evaluated by the redesigned TOEIC Bridge assessments, “everyday adult life.” Next, we review research literature and relevant language proficiency standards to highlight the knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to beginner to low‐intermediate English proficiency for everyday adult life. This information is synthesized in the construct definitions for reading, listening, speaking, and writing ability for beginner to low‐intermediate levels of general English proficiency in the context of everyday adult life.
Return of a Giant: Coordinated Conservation Leads to the First Wild Reproduction of Lahontan Cutthroat Trout in the Truckee River in Nearly a Century
Authors: Al-Chokhachy Robert , Heki Lisa , Loux Tim , Peka Roger
Published: August 2019

Many freshwater fish populations have been greatly reduced, with particular loss of migratory fishes. Recovering depleted populations is challenging as threats are often plentiful and complex, especially in arid environments where demands for water resources are high. Here, we describe how a collaborative, multifaceted approach has spurred natural reproduction—a major step towards Lahontan Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi (LCT) recovery in Pyramid Lake and the Truckee River, Nevada, once home to one of largest freshwater salmonids in North America. The factors limiting LCT were immense, including habitat fragmentation, degradation, and non-native species attributes common in the declines of native salmonids. Yet for the first time in over 80 years and each year since 2014, adfluvial LCT have spawned in the lower Truckee River, resulting in the production of tens of thousands of young-of-year. The progress and positive trajectory towards recovery were driven by a holistic view of the Truckee River watershed beginning in the early 1990's that envisioned bringing numerous conservation building blocks together to expedite the conservation and recovery for the listed fishes of Pyramid Lake. Although additional challenges remain, the LCT recovery program in the Truckee River basin provides a template for the conservation of imperiled fishes.
Effect of arabinoxylan on colonic bacterial metabolites and mucosal barrier in high‐fat diet‐induced rats
Authors: Li Shanshan , Sun Yanan , Hu Xinxin , Qin Wen , Li Cheng , Liu Yuntao , Liu Aiping , Zhao Ye , Wu Dingtao , Lin Derong , Zhang Qing , Chen Daiwen , Chen Hong
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the effect of arabinoxylan on colonic mucosal barrier and metabolomic profiles in high‐fat diet‐induced rats. A total of 20 six‐week‐old male rats were arranged randomly to two groups (n = 10/group), including a high‐fat diet (HFD) group and a high‐fat supplemented with arabinoxylan diet (AXD) group. Results showed that feeding AXD reduced serum lipopolysaccharide in rats after 5 weeks. In colonic digesta, Escherichia coli population was reduced, while Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Bacteroidetes populations were increased in AXD group. Metabolomics assay found that the different abundances of 84 metabolites were observed, involving lipid, carbohydrate, and nitrogenous metabolism in colonic digesta. In colonic mucosa, AXD up‐regulated gene level of tight‐junction‐related proteins. Meanwhile, lower TNF‐α and IL‐1β levels were related to TLR4/NF‐κB/MyD88 pathway in AXD group. In conclusion, arabinoxylan could change colonic microbial metabolism and improve the colonic mucosal barrier via modulating intestinal microflora and tight junction proteins.
Patterns of co‐altered brain structure and function underlying neurological soft signs in schizophrenia spectrum disorders
Authors: Hirjak Dusan , Rashidi Mahmoud , Fritze Stefan , Bertolino Alina L. , Geiger Lena S. , Zang Zhenxiang , Kubera Katharina M. , Schmitgen Mike M. , Sambataro Fabio , Calhoun Vince D. , Weisbrod Matthias , Tost Heike , Wolf Robert C.
Published: August 2019

Neurological soft signs (NSS) comprise a broad range of subtle neurological deficits and are considered to represent external markers of sensorimotor dysfunction frequently found in mental disorders of presumed neurodevelopmental origin. Although NSS frequently occur in schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD), specific patterns of co‐altered brain structure and function underlying NSS in SSD have not been investigated so far. It is unclear whether gray matter volume (GMV) alterations or aberrant brain activity or a combination of both, are associated with NSS in SSD. Here, 37 right‐handed SSD patients and 37 matched healthy controls underwent motor assessment and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 3 T. NSS were examined on the Heidelberg NSS scale. We used a multivariate data fusion technique for multimodal MRI data—multiset canonical correlation and joint independent component analysis (mCCA + jICA)—to investigate co‐altered patterns of GMV and intrinsic neural fluctuations (INF) in SSD patients exhibiting NSS. The mCCA + jICA model indicated two joint group‐discriminating components (temporoparietal/cortical sensorimotor and frontocerebellar/frontoparietal networks) and one modality‐specific group‐discriminating component (p< .05, FDR corrected). NSS motor score was associated with joint frontocerebellar/frontoparietal networks in SSD patients. This study highlights complex neural pathomechanisms underlying NSS in SSD suggesting aberrant structure and function, predominantly in cortical and cerebellar systems that critically subserve sensorimotor dynamics and psychomotor organization.
Exploitation of Bi2O2Se/graphene van der Waals heterojunction for creating efficient photodetectors and short‐channel field‐effect transistors
Authors: Tan Congwei , Xu Shipu , Tan Zhenjun , Sun Luzhao , Wu Jinxiong , Li Tianran , Peng Hailin
Published: August 2019

The formation of heterojunction within solid‐state devices enables them with eventually high performances, but provides a challenge for material synthesis and device fabrication because strict conditions such as lattice match are needed. Herein, we show a facile method to fabricate a van der Waals (vdW) heterojunction between two‐dimensional (2D) bismuth oxyselenide (Bi2O2Se) and graphene, during which the graphene is directly transferred to the Bi2O2Se and served as a low‐contract‐resistant electrode with small work function mismatch (~50 meV). As an optoelectronic device, the Bi2O2Se/graphene vdW heterojunction allows for the efficient sensing toward 1200‐nm incident laser. Regarding the application of field‐effect transistors (FETs), the short‐channel (50 nm) sample can be synthesized by utilizing these two 2D materials (ie, channel: Bi2O2Se; drain/source terminal: graphene) and the n‐type characteristic can be observed with the accordant field modulation. It is confirmed that we show a simple way to prepare the vdW heterojunction which is aiming to the high‐performance applications among optoelectronics and FETs.
Apheresis red blood cells associated with repeated hemolysis during blood priming of the Cellex Photopheresis System
Authors: Cooling Laura , Thompson Tina , Downs Terry , Abusin Ghada , Yanik Greg
Published: August 2019

Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) in young pediatric patients has a risk for procedural hypotension and anemia due to extracorporeal fluid shifts. A standard mitigation policy in these patients is to prime the device with packed red blood cells (RBC) or whole blood. We now report multiple episodes of hemolysis while attempting to prime the Therakos Cellex in a pediatric transplant patient undergoing a course of ECP for severe graft‐vs‐host‐disease. Over the course of 40 ECP treatments, hemolysis was observed on five occasions. An extensive investigation found an association between hemolysis and apheresis RBC (A‐RBC). Of 46 RBC units dispensed for blood priming, hemolysis occurred with 22% (4 of 18) of A‐RBC and accounted for 80% (4 of 5) of all hemolysis episodes. Hemolysis was significantly higher with A‐RBC when compared with RBC collected by whole blood donations (WB‐RBC: 3.5% [1 of 28]; P = .049). A comparison of RBC attributes, including unit age, showed that hemolyzed A‐RBC units tended to be younger than both nonhemolyzed RBC (6.5 vs 10.3 days, P = .018) and WB‐RBC (8.5 days, P = .10). We hypothesize that A‐RBC may exhibit “sublethal” RBC damage following prior exposure to centrifugal shear and negative forces at the time of collection, leading to a decrease in RBC deformability and increased susceptibility to hemolysis. This is the first report showing an increased susceptibility to hemolysis with A‐RBC during priming of the Cellex.
Complex prescribing in chronic kidney disease: role of the renal pharmacist in kidney supportive care in uncovering hydralazine‐related lupus
Authors: Scuderi Carla E. , Berquier Ilse R. , Purtell Louise A. , Bonner Ann J. , Douglas Carol M. , Healy Helen G.
Published: August 2019

Background

Herein we describe the presentation of drug‐induced lupus in an 89‐year‐old woman with end‐stage kidney disease (estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 11 mL/min per 1.73 m2) who had chosen a conservative non‐dialysis pathway of care, and highlight the role of a pharmacist in identifying drug‐related problems.

Clinical details

Among numerous health conditions, the patient had systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) that had previously responded to hydroxychloroquine, which had been ceased. Hydralazine was subsequently commenced to control the patient's blood pressure. The combination of ceasing the medicine that controlled the patient's SLE and commencing a medicine that accumulates in patients with reduced renal function and can precipitate SLE resulted in a reactivation of the patient's disease.

Outcomes

The pharmacist was pivotal in uncovering the timeline of medication changes and assisting in identifying SLE reactivation. Cessation of the patient's hydralazine and recommencing hydroxychloroquine resulted in the resolution of the symptoms.

Conclusion

This case presents the value of an interdisciplinary approach to patient directed symptoms, when prescribing in the very complex clinical context of multiple comorbid conditions for patients with severely reduced renal function.
General health, vitality, and social function after sinus surgery in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Nilsen Ann Helen , Helvik Anne‐Sofie , Thorstensen Wenche Moe , Salvesen Øyvind , Bugten Vegard
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has an impact on health‐related quality of life (HRQOL). The objective of this study was to examine generic and disease‐specific HRQOL and symptoms in CRS patients with (CRSwNP) and without (CRSsNP) nasal polyps before and 6 months after sinus surgery, and to identify preoperative patient factors associated with HRQOL outcome in the two groups separately.

Methods

This prospective, observational study consisted of 220 CRSwNP and 196 CRSsNP patients. Generic and disease‐specific HRQOL were measured using the Short‐Form‐Health‐Survey (SF‐36) and Sino‐Nasal‐Outcome‐Test (SNOT‐20). Symptoms were assessed on a visual analog scale.

Results

Preoperatively, CRSwNP patients reported worse score in general health (SF‐36), rhinologic subset (SNOT‐20): nasal obstruction, nasal discharge, and altered sense of smell compared to CRSsNP patients, who reported worse score in physical role, bodily pain, ear/face subset, and facial pain. After surgery, generic and disease‐specific HRQOL and symptoms improved in both groups. CRSwNP patients had greater improvement in general health, vitality and social function, nasal obstruction, and altered sense of smell, compared to CRSsNP‐patients. In both groups, higher age, daily smoking, and having had sinus surgery previously were associated with less generic HRQOL improvement, in addition to female sex and allergy in CRSsNP patients.

Conclusion

The greater improvement in general health, vitality, and social function after surgery may indicate a greater potential for generic HRQOL improvement in CRSwNP patients compared to CRSsNP patients. Female sex and allergy was associated with less improvement of generic HRQOL in the CRSsNP group, but not in the CRSwNP group.

Level of evidence

2c outcome research.
Efficient Heterodifunctional Unimolecular Ring‐Closure Method for Cyclic Polymers by Combining RAFT and SuFEx Click Reactions
Authors: Liu Wenying , Zhang Shuxiang , Liu Shengjie , Wu Zhaoqiang , Chen Hong
Published: August 2019

A novel ring‐closure strategy for cyclic polymers by combining reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT) and the sulfur(VI)‐fluoride exchange (SuFEx) click reaction is presented. Herein, a new heterodifunctional trithiocarbonate RAFT agent, 2‐((tert‐butyldimethylsilyl)oxy)ethyl (4‐(fluorosulfonyl)benzyl) carbonotrithioate (TBDMS‐FSBCT), containing both tert‐butyldimethylsilyl ether and sulfonyl fluoride moieties, is developed. The polymerization behavior of TBDMS‐FSBCT is first demonstrated by a standard RAFT polymerization procedure for two types of vinyl monomers, N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm) (conjugated vinyl monomer) and N‐vinylpyrrolidone (NVP) (unconjugated vinyl monomer). The tert‐butyldimethylsilyl ether and sulfonyl fluoride groups at the α and ω positions of the obtained linear polymer precursors (L‐PNIPAAm and L‐PVP) are verified by 1H, 13C, and 19F NMR spectra. Subsequent intramolecular SuFEx click cyclization of the α,ω‐heterofunctionalized linear precursors in air at room temperature conveniently yields the corresponding cyclic polymers (C‐PNIPAAm and C‐PVP). Overall, this is the first report on the preparation of cyclic polymers based on the SuFEx reaction under ambient conditions. It is envisioned that the approach may open an avenue for the formation of cyclic polymers.
Evolutionary history of disease‐susceptibility loci identified in longitudinal exome‐wide association studies
Authors: Yasukochi Yoshiki , Sakuma Jun , Takeuchi Ichiro , Kato Kimihiko , Oguri Mitsutoshi , Fujimaki Tetsuo , Horibe Hideki , Yamada Yoshiji
Published: August 2019

Background

Our longitudinal exome‐wide association studies previously detected various genetic determinants of complex disorders using ~26,000 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that passed quality control and longitudinal medical examination data (mean follow‐up period, 5 years) in 4884–6022 Japanese subjects. We found that allele frequencies of several identified SNPs were remarkably different among four ethnic groups. Elucidating the evolutionary history of disease‐susceptibility loci may help us uncover the pathogenesis of the related complex disorders.

Methods

In the present study, we conducted evolutionary analyses such as extended haplotype homozygosity, focusing on genomic regions containing disease‐susceptibility loci and based on genotyping data of our previous studies and datasets from the 1000 Genomes Project.

Results

Our evolutionary analyses suggest that derived alleles of rs78338345 of GGA3, rs7656604 at 4q13.3, rs34902660 of SLC17A3, and six SNPs closely located at 12q24.1 associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, dyslipidemia, and three complex disorders (hypertension, hyperuricemia, and dyslipidemia), respectively, rapidly expanded after the human dispersion from Africa (Out‐of‐Africa). Allele frequencies of GGA3 and six SNPs at 12q24.1 appeared to have remarkably changed in East Asians, whereas the derived alleles of rs34902660 of SLC17A3 and rs7656604 at 4q13.3 might have spread across Japanese and non‐Africans, respectively, although we cannot completely exclude the possibility that allele frequencies of disease‐associated loci may be affected by demographic events.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that derived allele frequencies of nine disease‐associated SNPs (rs78338345 of GGA3, rs7656604 at 4q13.3, rs34902660 of SLC17A3, and six SNPs at 12q24.1) identified in the longitudinal exome‐wide association studies largely increased in non‐Africans after Out‐of‐Africa.
Fully automated patellofemoral MRI segmentation using holistically nested networks: Implications for evaluating patellofemoral osteoarthritis, pain, injury, pathology, and adolescent development
Authors: Cheng Ruida , Alexandridi Natalia A. , Smith Richard M. , Shen Aricia , Gandler William , McCreedy Evan , McAuliffe Matthew J. , Sheehan Frances T.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Our clinical understanding of the relationship between 3D bone morphology and knee osteoarthritis, as well as our ability to investigate potential causative factors of osteoarthritis, has been hampered by the time‐intensive nature of manually segmenting bone from MR images. Thus, we aim to develop and validate a fully automated deep learning framework for segmenting the patella and distal femur cortex, in both adults and actively growing adolescents.

Methods

Data from 93 subjects, obtained from on institutional review board–approved protocol, formed the study database. 3D sagittal gradient recalled echo and gradient recalled echo with fat saturation images and manual models of the outer cortex were available for 86 femurs and 90 patellae. A deep‐learning–based 2D holistically nested network (HNN) architecture was developed to automatically segment the patella and distal femur using both single (sagittal, uniplanar) and 3 cardinal plane (triplanar) methodologies. Errors in the surface‐to‐surface distances and the Dice coefficient were the primary measures used to quantitatively evaluate segmentation accuracy using a 9‐fold cross‐validation.

Results

Average absolute errors for segmenting both the patella and femur were 0.33 mm. The Dice coefficients were 97% and 94% for the femur and patella. The uniplanar, relative to the triplanar, methodology produced slightly superior segmentation. Neither the presence of active growth plates nor pathology influenced segmentation accuracy.

Conclusion

The proposed HNN with multi‐feature architecture provides a fully automatic technique capable of delineating the often indistinct interfaces between the bone and other joint structures with an accuracy better than nearly all other techniques presented previously, even when active growth plates are present.
SMS MUSSELS: A navigator‐free reconstruction for simultaneous multi‐slice‐accelerated multi‐shot diffusion weighted imaging
Authors: Mani Merry , Jacob Mathews , McKinnon Graeme , Yang Baolian , Rutt Brian , Kerr Adam , Magnotta Vincent
Published: August 2019

Purpose

To introduce a novel reconstruction method for simultaneous multi‐slice (SMS)‐accelerated multi‐shot diffusion weighted imaging (ms‐DWI).

Methods

SMS acceleration using blipped‐CAIPI schemes have been proposed to speed up the acquisition of ms‐DWIs. The reconstruction of the data requires (a) phase compensation to combine data from different shots and (b) slice unfolding to separate the data of different slices. The traditional approaches first estimate the phase maps corresponding to each shot and slice which are then employed to iteratively recover the slice unfolded DWIs without phase artifacts. In contrast, the proposed reconstruction directly recovers the slice‐unfolded k‐space data of the multiple shots for each slice in a single‐step recovery scheme. The proposed method is enabled by the low‐rank property inherent in the k‐space samples of ms‐DW acquisition. This enabled to formulate a joint recovery scheme that simultaneously (a) unfolds the k‐space data of each slice using a SENSE‐based scheme and (b) recover the missing k‐space samples in each slice of the multi‐shot acquisition employing a structured low‐rank matrix completion. Additional smoothness regularization is also utilized for higher acceleration factors. The proposed joint recovery is tested on simulated and in vivo data and compared to similar un‐navigated methods.

Results

Our experiments show effective slice unfolding and successful recovery of DWIs with minimal phase artifacts using the proposed method. The performance is comparable to existing methods at low acceleration factors and better than existing methods for higher acceleration factors.

Conclusions

For the slice accelerations considered in this study, the proposed method can successfully recover DWIs from SMS‐accelerated ms‐DWI acquisitions.
Abnormal vaginal microbiome associated with vaginal mesh complications
Authors: Veit‐Rubin Nikolaus , De Tayrac Renaud , Cartwright Rufus , Franklin‐Revill Larissa , Warembourg Sophie , Dunyach‐Remy Catherine , Lavigne Jean‐Philippe , Khullar Vik
Published: August 2019

Aims

To identify differences in the vaginal microbiomes of women after transvaginal mesh (TVM) surgery for pelvic organ prolapse with and without mesh‐associated complications.

Methods

Patients with complications were eligible as cases, patients without as controls. DNA was isolated and the V1‐2 region of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene was amplified and sequenced. Overall richness was quantified using Chao1. Overall diversity was expressed as Shannon diversity and screened for group differences using analysis of variance. Multivariate differences among groups were evaluated with functions from R.

Results

We recruited 14 patients after mesh exposure, 5 after contraction, and 21 as controls. The average number of operational taxonomic unit was 74.79 (SD ± 63.91) for controls, 57.13 (SD ± 58.74) after exposures, and 92.42 (SD ± 50.01) after contractions. Total 89.6% of bacteria in controls, 86.4% in previous exposures, and 81.3% in contractions were classified as either Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, or Actinobacteria (P < .001). Veillonella spp. was more abundant in patients after contraction (P = .045). The individual microbiomes varied, and we did not detect any significant differences in richness but a trend towards higher diversity with complications.

Conclusions

The presence of Veillonella spp. could be associated with mesh contraction. Our study did not identify vaginal microbiotic dysbiosis as a factor associated with exposure. Larger cohort studies would be needed to distinguish the vaginal microbiome of women predisposed to mesh‐related complications for targeted phenotyping of patients who could benefit from TVM surgery.
A comparison of opioid‐involved fatalities captured in the National Poison Data System to data derived from US death certificate literal text
Authors: Mallama Celeste A. , Trinidad James P. , Swain Richard S. , Zhao Yueqin , Woods Corinne , McAninch Jana K.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to describe and compare the number and characteristics of opioid‐involved fatal cases captured in the National Poison Data System (NPDS) and in US death certificates.

Methods

NPDS, which collects data on all calls to US poison control centers, and Drug‐Involved Mortality (DIM), which combines information from literal text of US death certificates and National Vital Statistics Systems, were queried for opioid‐involved fatal cases from 2010 to 2015. Characteristics of the two case series were compared.

Results

DIM contained 154 016 opioid‐involved overdose deaths, and NPDS contained 2524 fatal opioid exposures, a ratio of 61:1. The number of opioid deaths remained stable in NPDS but increased in DIM over the 6‐year period. On average, deaths involving opioids with higher mean dosage strength (in morphine milligram equivalents) per unit among dispensed prescriptions were more likely to be captured in DIM relative to NPDS, as compared with those with a lower mean dosage strength per unit. The increase in fentanyl‐related deaths seen in DIM since 2013 was not observed in NPDS.

Conclusions

NPDS is a valuable drug safety surveillance resource due to its timeliness and drug specificity. However, it captures only a small fraction of opioid‐involved fatal poisonings, and comparisons with data derived from death certificate literal text indicate that caution is warranted in making inferences about opioid‐involved fatality trends over time or comparisons across opioids.
Cell wall composition and transcriptomics in stem tissues of stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.): Spotlight on a neglected fibre crop
Authors: Xu Xuan , Backes Aurélie , Legay Sylvain , Berni Roberto , Faleri Claudia , Gatti Edoardo , Hausman Jean‐Francois , Cai Giampiero , Guerriero Gea
Published: August 2019

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.) produces silky cellulosic fibres, as well as bioactive molecules. To improve the knowledge on nettle and enhance its opportunities of exploitation, a draft transcriptome of the “clone 13” (a fibre clone) is here presented. The transcriptome of whole internodes sampled at the top and middle of the stem is then compared with the core and cortical tissues sampled at the bottom. Young internodes show an enrichment in genes involved in the biosynthesis of phytohormones (auxins and jasmonic acid) and secondary metabolites (flavonoids). The core of internodes collected at the bottom of the stem is enriched in genes partaking in different aspects of secondary cell wall formation (cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin biosynthesis), while the cortical tissues reveal the presence of a C starvation signal probably due to the UDP‐glucose demand necessary for the thickening phase of bast fibres. Cell wall analysis indicates a difference in rhamnogalacturonan structure/composition of mature bast fibres, as evidenced by the higher levels of galactose measured, as well as the occurrence of more water‐soluble pectins in elongating internodes. The targeted quantification of phenolics shows that the middle internode and the cortical tissues at the bottom have higher contents than top internodes. Ultrastructural analyses reveal the presence of a gelatinous layer in bast fibres with a lamellar structure. The data presented will be an important resource and reference for future molecular studies on a neglected fibre crop.
Mechanism for the reactions of sulfides with hypochlorous acid and N‐chlorosulfon‐amides: Formation of solvated chlorosulfonium cation and λ4‐sulfane intermediates
Authors: Ruff Ferenc , Szabó Dénes , Rábai József , Jalsovszky István , Farkas Ödön
Published: August 2019

DFT computations have been performed to study the mechanism of the reactions of sulfides with hypochlorous acid and N‐chlorosulfonamides. Sulfides can attack HOCl both at chlorine and oxygen atoms. The attack at chlorine results in the formation of chlorosulfonium cation (R2SCl+) and OH− intermediates, which transform to sulfoxide product. The high free energy of activation (ΔG‡), which is needed for the formation of ionic intermediates, is decreased considerably by solvation in protic solvents. Since the attack of sulfides at the oxygen atom of HOCl has low ΔG‡ value, the chlorination of sulfides can compete with the attack at the oxygen atom only in protic solvents. Kinetic studies showed that the reactivity of species, formed from N‐chlorosulfonamides in protic solvents, increases in the course: RSO2NCl− << RSO2NHCl < < RSO2NCl2. The chlorination of sulfides with RSO2NHCl or RSO2NCl2 results in the formation of R2SCl+ and RSO2NH− or RSO2NCl− intermediates, respectively, and the computed and experimentally derived ΔG‡ data agree in these cases. Sulfilimine (R2S═NSO2R) and sulfoxide products are formed in the reaction of R2SCl+ with RSO2NH− and water, respectively. Acyloxy‐chloro‐λ4‐sulfane intermediates are produced in the reactions of N‐chlorosulfonamides and sulfides, bearing 2‐carboxy‐phenyl group, without the intermediacy of chlorosulfonium cations. Explicit water molecules must also be included in computations for reactions proceeding with formation or destruction of ions, to get ΔG‡ values, comparable with experimental data.

Supporting information may be found in the online version of this paper.
Interaction of long‐lived reactive species from cold atmospheric pressure plasma with polymers: Role of macromolecular structure and deep modification of aromatic polymers
Authors: Luan Pingshan , Oehrlein Gottlieb S.
Published: August 2019

We report (a) the deep modification of polymers by long‐lived reactive species generated in atmospheric pressure plasma and (b) the dependence of plasma–polymer interaction on the macromolecular structure. Styrene‐based polymers show significant thickness expansion whereas polymers with methyl, alcohol, and ether side groups show low‐rate etching. The characterization of polystyrene (PS) by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared shows that plasma treatment destroys aromatic rings and produces ether, ester, and surface organic nitrate groups. These modifications can happen at tens of nanometers below the surface, which we attribute to the reaction–diffusion of plasma species. Comparing three styrene‐based polymers namely PS, poly(4‐methyl styrene), and poly(α‐methyl styrene), we find that long‐lived species primarily attack the C–H bond on the carbon site where the aromatic ring connects.
Cover Image, Volume 75, Issue 9
Authors: Lorsbach Beth A , Sparks Thomas C , Cicchillo Robert M , Garizi Negar V , Hahn Donald R , Meyer Kevin G
Published: August 2019

The cover image is based on the Perspective Natural Products: A Strategic Lead Generation Approach in Crop Protection Discovery by Beth A Lorsbach et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.5350.

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Functional Materials for Two‐Photon Polymerization in Microfabrication
Authors: Carlotti Marco , Mattoli Virgilio
Published: August 2019

Direct laser writing methods based on two‐photon polymerization (2PP) are powerful tools for the on‐demand printing of precise and complex 3D architectures at the micro and nanometer scale. While much progress was made to increase the resolution and the feature size throughout the years, by carefully designing a material, one can confer specific functional properties to the printed structures thus making them appealing for peculiar and novel applications. This Review summarizes the state‐of‐the‐art of functional resins and photoresists used in 2PP, discussing both the range of material functions available and the methods used to prepare them, highlighting advantages and disadvantages of different classes of materials in achieving certain properties.
Profound degeneration of wake‐promoting neurons in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Oh Jun , Eser Rana A. , Ehrenberg Alexander J. , Morales Dulce , Petersen Cathrine , Kudlacek Jessica , Dunlop Sara R. , Theofilas Panos , Resende Elisa D.P.F. , Cosme Celica , Alho Eduardo J.L. , Spina Salvatore , Walsh Christine M. , Miller Bruce L. , Seeley William W. , Bittencourt Jackson C. , Neylan Thomas C. , Heinsen Helmut , Grinberg Lea T.
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Sleep‐wake disturbances are a common and early feature in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The impact of early tau pathology in wake‐promoting neurons (WPNs) remains unclear.

Methods

We performed stereology in postmortem brains from AD individuals and healthy controls to identify quantitative differences in morphological metrics in WPNs. Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal degeneration were included as disease‐specific controls.

Results

The three nuclei studied accumulate considerable amounts of tau inclusions and showed a decrease in neurotransmitter‐synthetizing neurons in AD, PSP, and corticobasal degeneration. However, substantial neuronal loss was exclusively found in AD.

Discussion

WPNs are extremely vulnerable to AD but not to 4 repeat tauopathies. Considering that WPNs are involved early in AD, such degeneration should be included in the models explaining sleep‐wake disturbances in AD and considered when designing a clinical intervention. Sparing of WPNs in PSP, a condition featuring hyperinsomnia, suggest that interventions to suppress the arousal system may benefit patients with PSP.
The Uranium Isotope Paleoredox Proxy
Authors: Lau Kimberly V. , Romaniello Stephen J. , Zhang Feifei
Published: August 2019

Uranium isotopes (238U/235U) have emerged as a proxy to reconstruct the redox conditions of the Earth's oceans and atmosphere based upon the large isotopic fractionation between reduced U(IV) and oxidized U(VI). Variations in 238U/235U, particularly when recorded in carbonate sediments, can track global trends in marine oxygenation and de-oxygenation. It is unique from other proxies because reduction primarily occurs at the sediment-water interface, and this sensitivity makes U isotopes especially relevant for the habitability of benthic animals. This Element covers the background, methods, and case studies of this promising tool for understanding Earth's environmental transitions, as rapid development continues to refine the accuracy of interpretations of 238U/235U records.
AVICENNA'S INFLUENCE ON MAIMONIDES' “EPISTLE ON ASTROLOGY”
Authors: Harvey Elon
Published: August 2019

This paper shows for the first time that Maimonides significantly relied on Avicenna's “Refutation of astrology” (Al-Išāra ilā fasād ῾ilm aḥkām al-nujūm) when composing his own refutation, the “Epistle on astrology” (῾Al Gezērat ha-kōkhabīm). Maimonides consulted a copy of Avicenna's Refutation, partially using its structure as a model for his Epistle, and adapting some of its arguments. Therefore, it may be said with certainty that Maimonides carefully read at least one of Avicenna's works, and that his Epistle is not based solely on his own previous works, the “Commentary on the Mishnah”, the “Code of Jewish law”, and the “Guide of the perplexed”.
IBN RAḤĪQ'S TEXT ON THE MILKY WAY: PERCEPTION OF THE MILKY WAY IN THE EARLY ISLAMIC SOCIETY
Authors: Eckart Andreas
Published: August 2019

Ibn Raḥīq is an 11th century scholar who compiled a book on popular astronomy. This work included a section in which he summarizes basic knowledge of the Milky Way as it was wide spread in the first centuries after the hejira. Ibn Raḥīq gives a comprehensive overview of the perception of the Milky Way that reaches from its use as a test for knowledge of the religious tradition and for agricultural purposes on the one hand to an exact astronomical description of its shape in the sky during the year and to theories of its nature and composition on the other hand. We use a comparison of his text to those of Ibn al-Haytham and others to investigate the role the Milky Way played in early Islamic civilization from its beginning until the 15th century.
From Creative Potential to Creative Achievements
Authors: Sordia Natia , Martskvishvili Khatuna , Neubauer Aljoscha
Published: August 2019

Abstract. Creative potential realized in creative achievement changes the world and defines progress. Accordingly, the investigation of factors that contribute to the process of achieving creative accomplishments seems essential. The relationship between creativity and personality was a thoroughly studied subject almost from the very beginning of creativity research, yet even today it is still unclear whether emotion-related personality traits – specifically, trait emotional intelligence and emotional creativity – are the driving factors that help individuals with creative potential to gain creative achievements. In this study, 342 participants ( Mage = 21.87, SD = 5.84) took the Alternative Uses and Instances tasks (creative potential); the Inventory of Creative Activities and Achievements (ICAA); the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue); and the Emotional Creativity Inventory (ECI). Results show that trait emotional intelligence (specifically, the sociability factor) and emotional creativity (namely, the novelty aspect) moderate the relationship between creative potential and creative achievements, while this relationship is mediated by creative activities. The study provides insight into which emotional personality traits can facilitate the path from creative potential to real-life creative achievements.
SOCS5 inhibition induces autophagy to impair metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway
Authors: Zhang Mao , Liu Shihai , Chua Mei-Sze , Li Haoran , Luo Dingan , Wang Sheng , Zhang Shun , Han Bing , Sun Chuandong
Published: August 2019

SOCS5 is a member of the suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) protein family with important yet incompletely understood biological functions in cancer. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), controversial tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressive roles of SOCS5 have been reported. Our study aims to unravel novel functions of SOCS5 in HCC, especially that affecting metastasis. We examined the expression levels of SOCS5 in HCC using publicly available datasets, and in our patient cohort, using quantitative real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. The association of SOCS5 expression with clinical pathological data of HCC patients was examined and that with the mTOR pathway was predicted. We further studied the effects of SOCS5 on PI3K/Akt/mTOR activity; HCC cell autophagy, migration, and invasion; and HCC cell metastasis in vitro and in vivo. We observed that SOCS5 was significantly overexpressed in HCC tissues, compared to adjacent non-tumor liver tissues, in both the public datasets and in our patient cohort. SOCS5 overexpression was significantly and inversely correlated with HCC patient prognosis. Moreover, SOCS5 overexpression promoted HCC cell migration and invasion in vitro by inactivating PI3K/Akt/mTOR-mediated autophagy. Conversely, SOCS5 inhibition suppressed HCC cell migration and invasion in vitro by activating PI3K/Akt/mTOR-mediated autophagy. Dual inhibition of SOCS5 and mTOR further enhanced autophagy and the subsequent anti-metastatic effects on HCC cells. In vivo, stable knockdown of SOCS5 reduced HCC cell metastasis. Overall, our study revealed a novel metastasis-promoting function of SOCS5 in HCC, acting via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR-mediated autophagy pathway. Combined inhibition of SOCS5 and mTOR may be a potential therapeutic approach to inhibit HCC metastasis and prolong patient survival.