bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A novel drug delivery system of mixed micelles based on poly(ethylene glycol)‐poly(lactide) and poly(ethylene glycol)‐poly(ɛ‐caprolactone) for gambogenic acid
Authors: Lin Tong‐Yuan , Zhu Ting‐Ting , Xun Yan , Tao Yun‐Song , Yang Yu‐Qin , Xie Jia‐Li , Zhang Xiao‐Ming , Chen Shi‐Xiong , Ding Bai‐Jing , Chen Wei‐Dong 
Published: August 2019

AbstractIn this study, a novel mixed polymeric micelles formed from biocompatible polymers, poly(ethylene glycol)‐poly(lactide) (mPEG‐PLA) and poly(ethylene glycol)‐poly(ɛ‐caprolactone) (mPEG‐PCL), used as a novel nanocarrier to encapsulate gambogenic acid (GNA). GNA‐loaded mixed polymeric micelles (GNA‐MMs) was prepared by cosolvent evaporation method. The mean average size of GNA‐MMs was (83.23 ± 1.06) nm (n = 3) and entrapment efficiency (EE%) of GNA‐MMs was (90.18 ± 2.59) % (n = 3) as well as (12.36 ± 0.64) % (n = 3) for drug loading (DL%). Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the GNA‐MMs were spherical with “core‐shell” structures. Compared with free GNA solution, in vitro release of GNA from GNA‐MMs showed a two‐phase sustained release profile: an initial relatively fast phase and followed by a slower release phase. Pharmacokinetic results also indicated that the GNA‐MMs have longer systemic circulation time and slower plasma elimination rate than free GNA solution. Moreover, the in vitro cytotoxicity assay showed that the IC50 values on HepG2 cells for GNA‐MMs and free GNA were (5.67 ± 0.02) μM and (9.02 ± 0.03) μM, respectively. In addition, GNA‐MMs significantly increased the HepG2 cellular apoptosis in a concentration‐dependent manner. In conclusion, the results showed that mPEG‐PLA/mPEG‐PCL mixed micelles may serve as an ideal drug delivery system for GNA to prolong drug circulation time in body, enhance bioavailability and retained its potent antitumor effect.
Effect of the cerium (III) chloride heptahydrate on the corrosion inhibition of aluminum alloy
Authors: Kurtela Marin , Šimunović Vinko , Stojanović Ivan , Alar Vesna 
Published: August 2019

AbstractIn the present work, the corrosion protection of aluminum alloy AA2024‐T3 has been studied in NaCl solution, with and without the addition of cerium (III) chloride heptahydrate. The corrosion inhibitor efficiency after immersion into 10 mM NaCl, with or without 3 mM of CeCl3·7H2O at 20°C, 40°C, and 60°C was investigated. The performed quantitative tests include electrochemical techniques, such as the method of quasipotentiostatic polarization (Tafel extrapolation), cyclic polarization, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to determine corrosion rate (vcorr), inhibition efﬁciency (η %), protective ability (γ), degree of coverage (ϑ), and pitting nucleation resistance. The samples were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis to evaluate and characterize the precipitates formed on the surface of aluminum samples and to determine dominant type of corrosion. The formation of Ce3+ precipitates occurred on cathodic intermetallic sites and the surface, in general, resulting in improved corrosion resistance. Tested cerium (III) chloride heptahydrate proved to be an effective inorganic corrosion inhibitor for AA2024‐T3 in chloride solution, which, by the action of cerium ions, reduced corrosion on the surface of the studied aluminum alloy.
Repurposing approved drugs on the pathway to novel therapies
Authors: Schein Catherine H. 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThe time and cost of developing new drugs have led many groups to limit their search for therapeutics to compounds that have previously been approved for human use. Many “repurposed” drugs, such as derivatives of thalidomide, antibiotics, and antivirals have had clinical success in treatment areas well beyond their original approved use. These include applications in treating antibiotic‐resistant organisms, viruses, cancers and to prevent burn scarring. The major theoretical justification for reusing approved drugs is that they have known modes of action and controllable side effects. Coadministering antibiotics with inhibitors of bacterial toxins or enzymes that mediate multidrug resistance can greatly enhance their activity. Drugs that control host cell pathways, including inflammation, tumor necrosis factor, interferons, and autophagy, can reduce the “cytokine storm” response to injury, control infection, and aid in cancer therapy. An active compound, even if previously approved for human use, will be a poor clinical candidate if it lacks specificity for the new target, has poor solubility or can cause serious side effects. Synergistic combinations can reduce the dosages of the individual components to lower reactivity. Preclinical analysis should take into account that severely ill patients with comorbidities will be more sensitive to side effects than healthy trial subjects. Once an active, approved drug has been identified, collaboration with medicinal chemists can aid in finding derivatives with better physicochemical properties, specificity, and efficacy, to provide novel therapies for cancers, emerging and rare diseases.
Penoscrotal reconstruction with superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator propeller flap
Authors: Han Hyun Ho , Ahn Ma Rip , Lee Jung Ho 
Published: August 2019

AbstractBackgroundSuccessful penoscrotal reconstruction requires proper resurfacing of the defect and maintenance of the original shape of the penis and scrotum. We examined the feasibility of using the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) propeller flap to effectively reconstruct penoscrotal defects.MethodsEleven male patients with an average age of 62.2 years were retrospectively evaluated. The average defect size was 21.3 × 10.5 cm2 (range: 10 × 8–24 × 16 cm2). An eccentrically located elliptical flap was constructed using a handheld Doppler device after detecting the perforator as the pivot point. The medial branch of the superficial circumflex iliac artery was used for all cases. Flaps were designed to cover 70–80% of the defect area and the average rotation arc was 165°.ResultsThe average flap dimension was 19.7 × 7.7 cm2. Two cases showed partial necrosis in the flap tip area. There were no instances of total flap loss or lymphorrhea, or complications such as scar contracture, urination problems, erectile dysfunction, or discomfort during intercourse.ConclusionsThe SCIP flap is an effective and ideal method for penoscrotal reconstruction considering the loose, elastic, and thin nature of the tissue. Elevation is easily facilitated, and the thickness of the SCIP flap can be adjusted without microsurgery.
Ameliorative Effects of Probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei NL41 on Insulin Sensitivity, Oxidative Stress, and Beta‐Cell Function in a Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Rat Model
Authors: Zeng Zhu , Yuan Qipeng , Yu Rui , Zhang Jinlan , Ma Huiqin , Chen Shangwu 
Published: August 2019

ScopeThe present study aims to assess the antidiabetic effect of Lactobacillus paracasei strain NL41 and its potential mechanisms in rats with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) induced by a high‐fat diet and low‐dose streptozotocin administration (HFD/STZ).Methods and resultsEighteen Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats are randomly assigned to three groups: one control, one HFD/STZ model, and one HFD/STZ‐Lactobacillus protection group with administration of strain NL41 for 12 weeks. Blood is collected for biochemical parameters analysis and tissue samples for histological analysis. Treatment with strain NL41 results in excellent blood glucose regulation and significantly decreases insulin resistance, and HbA1c, glucagon, and leptin levels, accompanied by remarkable improvement of dyslipidemia and oxidative stress status in the animals. Islets of Langerhans, liver, and kidney are significantly protected in the NL41‐treated rats compared to the HFD/STZ‐T2DM model rats. Histochemistry shows that strain NL41 inhibits beta‐cell loss and alpha‐cell expansion, indicating pancreatic islets as the targeted tissues for the primary ameliorative effect of the probiotic strain on HFD/STZ‐T2DM rats. Crosstalk between the gut–liver and liver–pancreas endocrine axes is discussed.ConclusionProbiotic strain NL41 prevents HFD/STZ‐T2DM by decreasing insulin resistance and oxidative stress status, and protecting beta‐cell function.
Perfusion and apparent oxygenation in the human placenta (PERFOX)
Authors: Hutter Jana , Harteveld Anita A. , Jackson Laurence H. , Franklin Suzanne , Bos Clemens , van Osch Matthias J. P. , O'Muircheartaigh Jonathan , Ho Alison , Chappell Lucy , Hajnal Joseph V. , Rutherford Mary , De Vita Enrico 
Published: August 2019

PurposeTo study placental function—both perfusion and an oxygenation surrogate ()—simultaneously and quantitatively in‐vivo.MethodsFifteen pregnant women were scanned on a 3T MR scanner. For perfusion measurements, a velocity selective arterial spin labeling preparation module was placed before a multi‐echo gradient echo EPI readout to integrate and perfusion measurements in 1 joint perfusion‐oxygenation (PERFOX) acquisition. Joint motion correction and quantification were performed to evaluate changes in and perfusion over GA.ResultsThe optimized integrated PERFOX protocol and post‐processing allowed successful visualization and quantification of perfusion and in all subjects. Areas of high and high perfusion appear to correspond to placental sub‐units and show a systematic offset in location along the maternal‐fetal axis. The areas of highest perfusion are consistently closer to the maternal basal plate and the areas of highest closer to the fetal chorionic plate. Quantitative results show a strong negative correlation of gestational age with and weak negative correlation with perfusion.ConclusionsA strength of the joint sequence is that it provides truly simultaneous and co‐registered estimates of local and perfusion, however, to achieve this, the time per slice is prolonged compared to a perfusion only scan which can potentially limit coverage. The achieved interlocking can be particularly useful when quantifying transient physiological effects such as uterine contractions. PERFOX opens a new avenue to elucidate the relationship between maternal supply and oxygen uptake, both of which are central to placental function and dysfunction.
Smallmouth Bass Population Demographics in Missouri Ozark Streams and an Evaluation of a Statewide 305-mm Minimum Length Limit
Authors: Sterling Edward M. , Sterling Kylie B. , Phelps Quinton E. , Ham Tyler D. , Tripp Sara J. 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
The Ozark streams of Missouri provide anglers with unique Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu fishing opportunities. To ensure the sustainability and potential of these fisheries, we sampled five streams in the Ozark highland ecoregion of southern Missouri via recreational angling methods. From our samples, we developed estimates of recruitment, growth, and mortality, and assessed current regulations for Smallmouth Bass. To accomplish these objectives, we aged otoliths from 75 legal (305-mm) fish on each stream. Back-calculated length-at-age estimates were formed for sublegal lengths, and were paired with electrofishing length distributions on each stream using an age-length key. These data were used to develop estimates of dynamic rate functions and models of yield, spawning potential, and number of memorable fish for each study population. We found that recruitment was stable on each stream, but growth and mortality varied among streams. We also found that models of yield, spawning potential, and number of memorable fish varied greatly among streams. Our results showed that the current 305-mm statewide minimum length limit is applicable for some of our study streams, but yield, spawning potential, and trophy potential could increase with more restrictive length limits on some of our study streams. More spatially explicit length limits can help these Smallmouth Bass populations reach their growth potential. This information can help inform stream management in Missouri and across the Ozark region of the Midwest.
Upregulation of neurotrophins and transforming growth factor‐β expression in the bladder may lead to nerve hyperplasia and fibrosis in patients with severe ketamine‐associated cystitis
Authors: Jhang Jia‐Fong , Wang Hsiu‐Jen , Hsu Yung‐Hsiang , Birder Lori A. , Kuo Hann‐Chorng 
Published: August 2019

AbstractAimsTo investigate the mechanism of bladder nerve hyperplasia and fibrosis in the patients with ketamine‐associated cystitis (KC).MethodsSixteen patients with severe KC, six patients with mild KC, and five patients with localized invasive bladder cancer served as control patients. Bladder mucosa specimens were taken during the operations, and the specimens were stained for nerve growth factor (NGF) and S‐100 to evaluated nerve hyperplasia. The quantitative Western blot analysis was performed for NGF, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), growth‐associated protein 43 (GAP‐43), tropomyosin receptor kinase A and B (TrkA and TrkB), transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β), phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinases (p‐ERK), protein kinase B (p‐Akt), and glycogen synthase kinase 3β (p‐GSK‐3β).ResultsThe results demonstrated diffuse NGF expression in KC bladder epithelium, lamina propria, and muscle. The GAP‐43, NGF, BDNF, TrkA, TGF‐β, p‐ERK, P‐AKT, and p‐GSK‐3β expression in the bladder mucosa specimens of patients with severe KC was significantly higher than in patients with mild KC and control patients. Expression of neurotrophins was significantly correlated with bladder capacity and pain. NGF and BDNF expression were significantly higher in the KC bladder specimens with strongly positive S‐100 staining. TGF‐β expression in the bladder specimens was significantly correlated with neurotrophins, p‐ERK, P‐AKT, and p‐GSK‐3β levels.ConclusionOur findings indicate upregulation of neurotrophins, TGF‐β, and activation of the cell proliferation kinases plays an important role in nerve hyperplasia and fibrosis mechanisms in severe KC bladders. The neurotrophins and TGF‐β interact as cause and effect, leading to bladder hypersensitivity and fibrosis in severe KC.
Urinary nerve growth factor can predict therapeutic efficacy in children with monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis
Authors: Morizawa Yosuke , Aoki Katsuya , Iemura Yusuke , Hori Shunta , Gotoh Daisuke , Fukui Shinji , Nakai Yasushi , Miyake Makito , Torimoto Kazumasa , Tanaka Nobumichi , Fujimoto Kiyohide 
Published: August 2019

AbstractAimTo determine the urinary levels of nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in children with monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MNE) and evaluate whether these factors can be used as biomarkers for the treatment outcome.MethodsNGF and BDNF levels were measured and compared in 38 children (28 boys and 10 girls) with MNE and 25 children (18 boys and 7 girls) with no urinary symptoms were assessed. The mean ages in the patient and control groups were 9 and 10 years, respectively (P = .49). The patients were treated with either alarm or desmopressin therapy.ResultsThe urinary NGF/creatinine and BDNF/creatinine ratios were significantly higher in the patient group than in the control group (P = .0003 and P = .0095, respectively). NGF and BDNF levels showed a significant positive correlation (P = .0020, r = 0.40). With respect to the degree of response, 19 patients (50%) showed complete response (CR) or partial response (PR), and 19 patients (50%) showed nonresponse (NR). The urinary NGF/creatinine and BDNF/creatinine ratios were significantly higher in the NR group than in the CR and PR groups (P = .0003 and P = .0003, respectively).ConclusionsUrinary NGF/creatinine and BDNF/creatinine ratios were significantly higher in children with MNE than in healthy controls. Urinary NGF/creatinine can be predictive factors of a poor treatment outcome in children with MNE.
Detrusor underactivity in women: A current understanding
Authors: Hartigan Siobhan M. , Reynolds W. Stuart , Dmochowski Roger R. 
Published: August 2019

AbstractAimsTo examine the current understanding and management of detrusor underactivity (DUA) and underactive bladder (UAB) in women.MethodsA review of the current literature was performed with a specific focus on new management strategies and treatment options for women with DUA and UAB.ResultsDUA has become an area of increased interest in recent years. Affecting up to 45% of older women undergoing urodynamic evaluation for non‐neurogenic lower urinary tract symptoms, DUA is common. There are a variety of possible etiologies including neurogenic or myogenic dysfunction. As there is currently no cure for DUA and no way to restore the ability of the detrusor muscle to contract, management of DUA in women is mostly focused on effective bladder drainage by urinary catheterization. Clean intermittent catheterization is the gold standard for bladder drainage however for a variety of reasons, women with DUA often are managed with indwelling urethral catheter or suprapubic tube. Medications, sacral neuromodulation, and the inFlow urinary prosthesis are also treatment alternatives or additions to catheterization. Novel therapies using stem cells and gene therapy are also under investigation for the treatment of DUA and UAB.ConclusionsDUA is likely more prevalent than recognized and undertreated in women. It is vital that further research in treatment options beyond catheterization be developed for these patients to offer patients a variety of treatment options.
Influence of Adding Molybdenum on Structure and Performance of FexOy/SBA‐15 Catalysts in Selective Oxidation of Propene
Authors: Genz Nina Sharmen , Ressler Thorsten 
Published: August 2019

AbstractMixed iron and molybdenum oxide catalysts supported on nanostructured silica, SBA‐15, were synthesized with various Mo/Fe atomic ratios ranging from 0.07/1.0 to 0.57/1.0. Structural characterization of as‐prepared MoxOy_FexOy/SBA‐15 samples was performed by nitrogen physisorption, X‐ray diffraction, and DR‐UV‐Vis spectroscopy. Adding molybdenum resulted in a pronounced dispersion effect on supported iron oxidic species. Increasing atomic ratio up to 0.21Mo/1.0Fe was accompanied by decreasing species sizes. Strong interactions between iron and molybdenum during the synthesis resulted in the formation of Fe−O−Mo structure units, possibly Fe2(MoO4)3‐like species. Reducibility of MoxOy_FexOy/SBA‐15 catalysts was investigated by temperature‐programmed reduction experiments with hydrogen as reducing agent. The lower reducibility obtained when adding molybdenum was ascribed to both dispersion and electronic effect of molybdenum. Catalytic performance of MoxOy_FexOy/SBA‐15 samples was studied in selective gas‐phase oxidation of propene with O2 as oxidant. Adding molybdenum resulted in an increased acrolein selectivity and a decreased selectivity towards total oxidation products.
Recognition of antioxidants and photosensitizers in Dyssodia pinnata by EPR spectroscopy
Authors: Arciniegas Amira , Gómez‐Vidales Virginia , Pérez‐Castorena Ana‐L. , Nieto‐Camacho Antonio , Villaseñor José L. , Romo de Vivar Alfonso 
Published: August 2019

AbstractIntroductionPrevious studies report the isolation mainly of terthiophene derivatives and flavonoids from Dyssodia species. Terthiophenes are known as photosensitizers by their capacity to generate singlet oxygen (1O2), and flavonoid antioxidant activity is recognized. These opposite properties could represent interesting options in photodynamic therapy.ObjectiveTo determine the antioxidant and photosensitizer activities of extracts and isolates of Dyssodia pinnata by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR).MethodologyExtracts and isolates were evaluated as antioxidants by the interactions with copper ion (Cu2+) observed in EPR, and by the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and the thiobarbituric reactive substances (TBARS) methods. Their abilities as 1O2 producers were also estimated by EPR.ResultsTerthiophenes were obtained from hexane (DPH) and acetone (DPA) extracts, and flavonoids from DPA and methanol (DPM) extracts. The interaction with Cu2+ of extracts and isolated compounds of Dyssodia pinnata showed two effects in EPR: reduction and chelation; flavonoids exhibited both effects, while terthiophenes showed only reduction. DPA, DPM, and flavonoids were active in DPPH and TBARS assays. Quercetagetin‐7‐O‐β‐glucoside showed the highest antioxidant and chelating activities, 3‐glycosidated flavonoids were less active. Upon irradiation extracts and terthiophenes induced 1O2 formation.ConclusionFlavonoid reducing activity on Cu2+ and free radical scavenging capacity were related to the number of hydroxy groups and to the conjugation between the B and C rings. All tested flavonols showed a major complex with Cu2+, with the most probable site of chelation between the 5‐hydroxy and 4‐oxo groups. Extracts and terthiophene derivatives showed photosensitizer activity. Thus, EPR is useful to evaluate free radical scavenging and pro‐oxidant properties.
An empirical assessment of immeasurable time bias in the setting of nested case‐control studies: Statins and all‐cause mortality among patients with heart failure
Authors: Oh In‐Sun , Filion Kristian B. , Jeong Han Eol , Shin Ju‐Young 
Published: August 2019

AbstractPurposeImmeasurable time bias exaggerates drug benefits in pharmacoepidemiologic studies due to exposure misclassification that occurs due to the lack of inpatient drug data in many healthcare databases.MethodsTo estimate the magnitude of immeasurable time bias and assess potential approaches to minimize it, we conducted a nested case‐control study of statin use and mortality among heart failure patients using the South Korean nationwide healthcare database, which contains both inpatient and outpatient medication data. Using both inpatient and outpatient medication data to define the gold standard exposure definition, we assessed 10 different analytical methods in which exposure was defined using outpatient medication data only. We compared different methodological approaches to reduce immeasurable time bias: restricting to nonhospitalized patients, adjusting for hospitalization, weighting by either measurable time (nonhospitalized time during 90‐d period) or outpatient time, and computing the odds ratios (ORs) using 90‐day cumulative probability of exposure produced by the Kaplan‐Meier product‐limit estimator for cases and controls.ResultsThe three approaches that most closely approximated the gold standard (hazard ratio [HR] 1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05‐1.37) were weighting by either measurable (HR 1.09; 95% CI, 0.92‐1.28) or outpatient time (HR 1.14; 95% CI, 0.96‐1.34) in the unexposed or by estimating the 90‐day exposure probability (HR 1.31; 95% CI, 1.11‐1.51).ConclusionThe use of one of these three methods may be suggested as an approach to minimize immeasurable time bias in nested case‐control studies.