bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, characterization, and anticancer activity of some azole‐heterocyclic complexes with gold(III), palladium(II), nickel(II), and copper(II) metal ions
Authors: Abdnoor Zahraa M. , Alabdali Ammar J.
Published: April 2019

Four new complexes of Au(III), Pd(II), Ni(II), and Cu(II) ions were synthesized, derived from a novel heterocyclic ligand (L) that has both triazole and tetrazole rings. The ligand synthesis was through successive steps to achieve both heterocyclic rings. The synthesized compounds were characterized using conventional techniques like infrared, ultra violet—visible and proton/carbon nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, metal and thermal analyses, and molar conductivity. All complexes were suggested to have square planar geometry, gold, nickel, and palladium complexes were salts while copper neutral complexes have the chemical formulas; [AuL2]Cl.2H2O, [PdL2]Cl2.2H2O, [NiL2]Cl2.2H2O, and [CuL2]. The cytotoxic effect was studied on breast cancer cell line (MCF‐7 cell line) at different concentrations by using the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay method, for the ligand (L) and complexes. The results showed that gold(III) and nickel(II) complexes have the highest cytotoxicity among all compounds against cancer cell lines.
Design of peptide ligands for affinity purification of human growth hormone
Authors: Chandra Divya , Timmick Steven , Goodwine Chaz , Vecchiarello Nicholas , Shastry Divya G , Mullerpatan Akshat , Trasatti John P , Cramer Steven , Karande Pankaj
Published: April 2019

Background

In this study, we have demonstrated the design, screening and selection of peptide ligands for the affinity capture of human growth hormone (hGH) from yeast cell cultures.

Results

Ligand design was carried out using multiple approaches based on primary sequence and structures of natural binding partners of hGH. Screening of potential affinity peptides was conducted using high throughput microarray platforms followed by assessment of in‐solution binding to hGH using fluorescence polarization. Peptide leads were subsequently immobilized on chromatographic resins and the binding and desorption behavior was examined using batch adsorption studies. A lead candidate was examined in further details in column chromatography studies which indicated that while high purity was attained, further refinement was necessary for improved product recovery. Histidine scanning was employed to successfully improve the recovery of hGH from cell culture fluid while still maintaining high purity. Finally, proof‐of‐concept was demonstrated in the column format using complex feed stock where a product purity of 95% was attained at 80% yield.

Conclusion

The approaches presented here can be translated to other biologics of interest for the rapid development of affinity based purification processes. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Implementation of a comprehensive safer conception intervention for HIV‐serodiscordant couples in Kenya: uptake, use and effectiveness
Authors: Heffron Renee , Ngure Kenneth , Velloza Jennifer , Kiptinness Catherine , Quame‐Amalgo Justice , Oluch Lynda , Thuo Nicholas , Njoroge John , Momanyi Richard , Gakuo Stephen , Mbugua Sarah , Morrison Susan , Haugen Harald , Chohan Bhavna , Celum Connie , Baeten Jared M , Mugo Nelly
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Safer conception strategies minimize HIV risk during condomless sex to become pregnant. Gaps remain in understanding the acceptability, feasibility and choices HIV‐serodiscordant couples make when multiple safer conception options are available.

Methods

We conducted a pilot study of a comprehensive safer conception package for HIV‐serodiscordant couples with immediate fertility desires in Kenya from March 2016 to April 2018. The intervention package included antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV‐positive partners, oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV‐negative partners, daily fertility and sexual behaviour tracking via short message service (SMS) surveys, counselling on self‐insemination, and referrals for voluntary medical male circumcision and fertility care. Couples attended monthly visits until pregnancy with HIV testing for negative partners at each visit. We estimated the number of expected HIV seroconversions using a counterfactual cohort simulated from gender‐matched couples in the placebo arm of a previous PrEP clinical trial. We used bootstrap methods to compare expected and observed seroconversions.

Results

Of the 74 enrolled couples, 54% were HIV‐negative female/HIV‐positive male couples. The 6 and 12‐month cumulative pregnancy rates were 45.3% and 61.9% respectively. In the month preceding pregnancy, 80.9% of HIV‐positive partners were virally suppressed, 81.4% of HIV‐negative partners were highly adherent to PrEP, and SMS surveys indicated potential timing of condomless sex to peak fertility (median of sex acts = 10, interquartile range (IQR) 7 to 12; median condomless sex acts = 3.5, IQR 1 to 7). Most (95.7%) pregnancies were protected by ≥2 strategies: 57.4% were protected by high PrEP and ART adherence, male circumcision with or without timed condomless sex; 10 (21.3%) were protected by viral suppression in the HIV‐positive partner and male circumcision with or without timed condomless sex; 8 (17.0%) were protected by high PrEP adherence and male circumcision with or without timed condomless sex. We observed 0 HIV seroconversions (95% CI 0.0 to 6.0 per 100 person years), indicating a 100% reduction in HIV risk (p = 0.04).

Conclusions

The use of multiple safer conception strategies, primarily PrEP, ART, male circumcision and/or tracking fertility, was acceptable and feasible for African HIV‐serodiscordant couples and significantly reduced HIV transmission risk. It is important to increase the availability of and counselling about safer conception services in regions with HIV epidemics involving heterosexual transmission and high fertility.
The expanding family of noncanonical regulatory cell subsets
Authors: Zhao Hai , Feng Ridong , Peng Aijun , Li Gaowei , Zhou Liangxue
Published: April 2019

The overwhelming body of research on regulatory lymphocytes has focused on CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ T cells (regulatory T cells); however, the last 5 years have witnessed inspiring progress in our understanding of regulatory B cells, regulatory CD8+ T cells, regulatory γδ cells, and, more recently, regulatory innate lymphoid cells(ILCregs). This review focuses on these so-called noncanonical regulatory cell subsets. We primarily survey existing information on the phenotype, function, sustaining factors, and clinical value of the 4 best-characterized non-CD4 +Foxp3+ T regulatory cells. We then take a brief journey into the advances and challenges associated with next-generation sequencing technologies and the application of sequencing to the study of noncanonical regulatory cell subsets.
Classification of cocaine‐dependent participants with dynamic functional connectivity from functional magnetic resonance imaging data
Authors: Sakoglu Unal , Mete Mutlu , Esquivel John , Rubia Katya , Briggs Richard , Adinoff Bryon
Published: April 2019

Static functional connectivity (FC) analyses based on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data have been extensively explored for studying various psychiatric conditions in the brain, including cocaine addiction. A recently emerging, more powerful technique, dynamic functional connectivity (DFC), studies how the FC dynamics change during the course of the fMRI experiments. The aim in this paper was to develop a computational approach, using a machine learning framework, to determine if DFC features were more successful than FC features in the classification of cocaine‐dependent patients and healthy controls. fMRI data were obtained from of 25 healthy and 58 cocaine‐dependent participants while performing a motor response inhibition task, stop signal task. Group independent component analysis was carried out on all participant data to compute spatially independent components (ICs). Eight ICs were selected manually as relevant brain networks, which were used to classify healthy versus cocaine‐dependent participants. FC and DFC measures of the chosen IC pairs were used as features for the classification algorithm. Support Vector Machines were used for both feature selection/reduction and participant classification. Based on DFC with only seven IC pairs, participants were successfully classified with 95% accuracy (and with 90% accuracy with three IC pairs), whereas static FC yielded only 81% accuracy. Visual, sensorimotor, default mode, and executive control networks, amygdala, and insula played the most significant role in the DFC‐based classification. These findings support the use of DFC‐based classification of fMRI data as a potential biomarker for the identification of cocaine dependence.
Dynamic color control in multiprimary tunable LED lighting systems
Authors: Murdoch Michael J.
Published: April 2019

Temporally dynamic tunable light‐emitting diode (LED) lighting systems offer multiple spectral degrees of freedom and enable the creation of composite light spectra with a wide range of perceptual characteristics. Connecting existing metrics and ongoing research, this paper introduces relevant measures of quality of light, color, and temporal performance characteristics, including color rendition, circadian stimulation potential, and temporal smoothness and speed. Multiprimary system models describing both colorimetric and spectral characteristics are explained, along with colorimetric‐plus multiprimary intensity solutions that allow optimization of any of these quality of light characteristics in addition to ensuring a colorimetric match. Three commercial multiprimary LED systems are modeled to show examples of spectral solutions for different colorimetric‐plus optimization goals, and their range of performance are discussed. The diversity of results shows both the need for usable optimization tools and the need for clear communication standards about quality of light when light sources are capable of much more than typical fixed‐color lights.
A Network Approach to Understanding Quality of Life Impairments in Prolonged Grief Disorder
Authors: Maccallum Fiona , Bryant Richard A.
Published: April 2019

Prolonged grief (PGD) is a potentially debilitating consequence of bereavement that is experienced by 7%–10% of bereaved individuals. In recent years, PGD has been the focus of increasing interest as it is associated with a range of significant negative physical and mental health outcomes. To date, however, there is little understanding of how impairment is associated with individual PGD symptom interactions. Network analysis is an innovative statistical approach that has been productively applied to examine how symptoms of psychopathology influence and reinforce each other. In this study, we examined the association between PGD symptoms and quality of life (QoL) impairments. Data from 215 bereaved individuals were used to construct networks comprising PGD symptoms and different facets of QoL. The results showed that PGD symptoms of meaninglessness and role confusion were linked with reduced psychological QoL, trust difficulties were linked with reduced social QoL, and bitterness was linked with reduced environmental QoL. These results are consistent with models that highlight the importance of self‐identity and loss of meaning in PGD. By elucidating pathways of dysfunction, these findings offer clinical implications that may help to improve outcomes for persons with PGD.
Transient kinetic studies and microkinetic modeling of primary olefin formation from dimethyl ether over ZSM‐5 catalysts
Authors: Omojola Toyin , Lukyanov Dmitry B. , van Veen André C.
Published: April 2019

The formation of primary olefins from dimethyl ether (DME) was studied over ZSM‐5 catalysts at 300°C using a novel step response methodology in a temporal analysis of products (TAP) reactor. For the first time, the TAP reactor framework was used to conduct single‐ and multiple‐step response cycles of DME (balance argon) over a shallow bed with the continuous flow panel. Propylene is the major primary olefin and portrays an S‐shaped profile with a preceding induction period when it is not observed in the gas phase. Methanol and water portray overshoot profiles due to their different rates of generation and consumption. DME effluent shows a rapid rise halfway to its steady‐state value leading to a slow rise thereafter because of its high desorption rates followed by subsequent reactions involving DME in further steps during the induction period. To analyze the experimental data quantitatively, nine reaction schemes were compared, and kinetic parameters were obtained by solving a transient plug flow reactor model with coupled dispersion, convection, adsorption, desorption, and reaction steps. The methoxymethyl pathway involving dimethoxyethane and methyl propenyl ether gives the closest match to experimental data in agreement with recent density functional theory studies. Gaseous dispersion coefficients of ca. 10−9 m2 s−1 were obtained in the TAP reactor. The novel experimental data validated against the transient kinetic model suggests that after the formation of initial species, the bottleneck in propylene formation is the transformation of the initial C–C bond, that is dimethoxyethane formed initially from DME and methoxymethyl groups. DME adsorption on ZSM‐5 catalyst generates surface methoxy groups, which further react with the feed to give methoxymethyl groups. These methoxymethyl groups are regenerated through a series of reactions involving intermediates such as dimethoxymethane and methyl propenyl ether before propylene formation.
Predictors of swallow function after transoral surgery for locally advanced oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Gross Jennifer H. , Townsend Melanie , Hong Helena Y. , Miller Emily , Kallogjeri Dorina , Zenga Joseph , Pipkorn Patrik , Jackson Ryan S. , Haughey Bruce , Rich Jason T.
Published: April 2019

Objective

Transoral surgery (TOS) for oropharyngeal carcinoma (OPC) is steadily becoming more routine. Expected posttreatment swallow function is a critical consideration for preoperative counseling. The objective of this study was to identify predictors of swallow dysfunction following TOS for advanced tumor (T)‐stage (T3‐T4) OPC.

Methods

A retrospective review from 1997 to 2016 at a single institution was performed. Eighty‐two patients who underwent primary transoral resection of locally advanced OPCs with at least 1 year of postoperative follow‐up were included.

The primary outcome measure was swallow function, as measured by the Functional Outcomes Swallowing Scale (FOSS) at 1 year postoperatively. Operative reports were reviewed, and the extent of resection and type of reconstruction were documented. Conjunctive consolidation was then performed to incorporate multiple variables and their impact on swallow function into a clinically meaningful classification system.

Results

Fifty‐six patients (68%) had acceptable swallowing at 1 year. T4 tumor stage and receipt of adjuvant chemoradiation therapy (CRT) were strongly associated with poor swallowing but did not reach statistical significance. Only base of tongue (BOT) resection ≥50% (odds ratio [OR] 3.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21–8.43) and older age (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.00–1.12) were significantly associated. Utilizing T‐stage, adjuvant CRT, and BOT resection, a conjunctive consolidation was performed to develop a classification system for swallow dysfunction at 1 year.

Conclusion

This study provides risk stratification for swallow function at 1 year following primary transoral resection of locally advanced OPCs. BOT resection ≥50%, especially when coupled with T4 tumor stage or adjuvant CRT, was associated with poor long‐term swallow outcomes.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 130:94–100, 2020
Ecophysiology of mesophotic reef‐building corals in Hawai‘i is influenced by symbiont–host associations, photoacclimatization, trophic plasticity, and adaptation
Authors: Padilla‐Gamiño Jacqueline L. , Roth Melissa S. , Rodrigues Lisa J. , Bradley Christina J. , Bidigare Robert R. , Gates Ruth D. , Smith Celia M. , Spalding Heather L.
Published: April 2019

Mesophotic reef corals remain largely unexplored in terms of the genetic adaptations and physiological mechanisms to acquire, allocate, and use energy for survival and reproduction. In the Hawaiian Archipelago, the Leptoseris species complex form the most spatially extensive mesophotic coral ecosystem known and provide habitat for a unique community. To study how the ecophysiology of Leptoseris species relates to symbiont–host specialization and understand the mechanisms responsible for coral energy acquisition in extreme low light environments, we examined Symbiodinium (endosymbiotic dinoflagellate) photobiological characteristics and the lipids and isotopic signatures from Symbiodinium and coral hosts over a depth‐dependent light gradient (55–7 μmol photons m−2 s−1, 60–132 m). Clear performance differences demonstrate different photoadaptation and photoacclimatization across this genus. Our results also show that flexibility in photoacclimatization depends primarily on Symbiodinium type. Colonies harboring Symbiodinium sp. COI‐2 showed significant increases in photosynthetic pigment content with increasing depth, whereas colonies harboring Symbiodinium spp. COI‐1 and COI‐3 showed variability in pigment composition, yield measurements for photosystem II, as well as size and density of Symbiodinium cells. Despite remarkable differences in photosynthetic adaptive strategies, there were no significant differences among lipids of Leptoseris species with depth. Finally, isotopic signatures of both host and Symbiodinium changed with depth, indicating that coral colonies acquired energy from different sources depending on depth. This study highlights the complexity in physiological adaptations within this symbiosis and the different strategies used by closely related mesophotic species to diversify energy acquisition and to successfully establish and compete in extreme light‐limited environments.
NABH Access to Care resolution to address unfair managed care practices
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: April 2019

Developing guiding principles to ensure that patients receiving behavioral health care services have genuine access to the entire behavioral health care continuum is the mission behind the new Access to Care resolution adopted by the National Association for Behavioral Healthcare (NABH) board of trustees last month.
Pedicled neurocutaneous anterolateral thigh flap for groin reconstruction – A case report
Authors: Gentileschi Stefano , Albanese Roberta , Servillo Maria , Pino Valentina , Stefanizzi Gianluigi , Garganese Giorgia , Scambia Giovanni , Salgarello Marzia
Published: April 2019

Several different flaps based on the feeding vessels of sensitive nerves have been described in the limbs. This article reports the case of a neurocutaneous flap based on the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN), employed for reconstruction of an inguinal defect. A 61‐years‐old female patient had undergone vulvectomy and bilateral inguinal lymphadenectomy for vulvar cancer with postoperative left groin wound breakdown. After a 3 weeks negative pressure therapy course, she presented a 10 × 4 cm skin and subcutaneous defect with undermined edges in the left inguinal area. Reconstruction with 14 × 6 cm pedicled left anterolateral thigh flap was planned. After the dissection of the vascular pedicle and of the sensitive nerve, complete thrombosis of both the veins and arterial spasm of perforating pedicle was detected. As the flap color was good, and slow marginal bleeding was present, we inspected the small vessels surrounding the nerve that were pulsating. To confirm the vascularization coming from the neural pedicle, we clamped the perforator and performed intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence angiography that showed a good fluorescence of the flap with a proximal to distal pattern of progression. The flap was transferred on the neural pedicle, survived completely, and wounds healed normally. Three months after surgery, the patient underwent radiotherapy, with uneventful course. In her last follow‐up, 2 years after surgery, patient was free of disease and the flap showed normal scarring. This is the first case reported of a pedicled neurocutaneous flap based on the LFCN, indicating that in case of unsuitable perforators it could be an alternative pedicle.
An optimal perturbation bound
Authors: Liu Youming , Ren Chunguang
Published: April 2019

Cai and Zhang establish separate perturbation bounds for
distances with spectral and Frobenius norms (Cai T, Zhang A. Rate‐optimal perturbation bounds for singular subspaces with applications to high‐dimensional statistics. The Annals of Statistics. 2018; Vol. 46, No. 1: 60−89). We extend their theorem to each unitarily invariant norm. It turns out that our estimation is optimal as well.
Cortical waves and post‐stroke brain stimulation
Authors: Bessonov Nikolai , Beuter Anne , Trofimchuk Sergei , Volpert Vitaly
Published: April 2019

A neural field model with different activation and inhibition connectivity and response functions is considered. Stability analysis of a homogeneous in space solution determines the conditions of the emergence of stationary periodic solutions and of periodic travelling waves. Various regimes of wave propagation are illustrated in numerical simulations. The influence of external stimulation on the wave properties is investigated.
Terminology for bladder health research in women and girls: Prevention of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms transdisciplinary consortium definitions
Authors: Lowder Jerry L. , Bavendam Tamara G. , Berry Amanda , Brady Sonya S. , Fitzgerald Colleen M. , Fok Cynthia S. , Goode Patricia S. , Lewis Cora E. , Mueller Elizabeth R. , Newman Diane K. , Palmer Mary H. , Rickey Leslie , Stapleton Ann , Lukacz Emily S.
Published: April 2019

Aim

To report research terminology and definitions for describing healthy bladder function among women and girls.

Methods

The Prevention of Lower Urinary tract Symptoms (PLUS) Consortium developed research terminology and definitions for elements of healthy bladder function based on existing understanding of storage and emptying functions of the bladder and accepted definitions of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The novel concept of a bladder “bioregulatory” function was also proposed. Elements of bladder function corresponding to bladder health (BH) and LUTS were developed and refined using an iterative process. A comprehensive reference table structured by bladder function (Storage, Emptying, and Bioregulatory) and elements of each function was created to document proposed research terminology and definitions.

Results

The BH research definitions for each bladder function are: (1) Storage: the ability to hold urine for a reasonable duration of time and sense bladder fullness without fear of or concern about urgency, discomfort or leakage; (2) Emptying: the ability to empty the bladder completely in a timely, efficient, effortless, comfortable manner; and (3) Bioregulatory: the bladder barrier protects the individual/host from pathogens, chemicals, and malignancy. Research definitions for seven Storage, seven Emptying, and three Bioregulatory elements of function are presented. Novel LUTS research definitions were developed when gaps in existing definitions were identified or nonclinical language was desired.

Conclusions

PLUS BH definitions reflect a transdisciplinary approach to standardizing research definitions for elements of bladder function from a perspective of health rather than dysfunction and provide a framework for studying BH in clinical practice, public health promotion, and LUTS prevention.
Parametric uncertainty quantification using proper generalized decomposition applied to neutron diffusion
Authors: Prince Zachary M. , Ragusa Jean C.
Published: April 2019

In this paper, a proper generalized decomposition (PGD) approach is employed for uncertainty quantification purposes. The neutron diffusion equation with external sources, a diffusion‐reaction problem, is used as the parametric model. The uncertainty parameters include the zone‐wise constant material diffusion and reaction coefficients as well as the source strengths, yielding a large uncertain space in highly heterogeneous geometries. The PGD solution, parameterized in all uncertain variables, can then be used to compute mean, variance, and more generally probability distributions of various quantities of interest. In addition to parameterized properties, parameterized geometrical variations of three‐dimensional models are also considered in this paper. To achieve and analyze a parametric PGD solution, algorithms are developed to decompose the model's parametric space and semianalytically integrate solutions for evaluating statistical moments. Varying dimensional problems are evaluated to showcase PGD's ability to solve high‐dimensional problems and analyze its convergence.
Quantitative evaluation of variables to student success in a mastery learning baccalaureate nursing programme
Authors: Rolf Marie , Kroposki Margaret , Watson Susan
Published: April 2019

Aim

This study evaluated the relationship of student input and throughput variables in a mastery learning baccalaureate nursing programme to licensure success.

Design

This study used a quantitative, correlational design.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of records of 367 graduates over a 6‐year period tested the relationship of pass rate on the licensing examination to six variables: overall pre‐admission grade point average, entrance assessment scores, interview scores, remediation, programme length and exit assessment using point‐biserial correlations, and chi‐square analysis and logistic regression analysis.

Results

Overall pre‐admission grade point average, entrance assessment scores, interview scores and exit assessment scores were positively correlated with student success. Although remediation and programme length were not correlated with success, 87% of the students participated in remediation. Most students (95%) successfully passed the Registered Nurse licence examination on their first attempt. While specific criteria were related to student success, further research is needed to determine the role of remediation.
Ripple Effect of Lifestyle Interventions During Pregnancy on Untreated Partners’ Weight
Authors: Hagobian Todd A. , Phelan Suzanne , Schaffner Andrew , Brannen Anna , McHugh Angelica , Ashby‐Thompson Maxine , Gorin Amy A. , Pi‐Sunyer Xavier , Gallagher Dympna , Wing Rena
Published: April 2019

Objective

Weight‐loss interventions have a positive “ripple effect” on untreated partners’ weight, but ripple effects in pregnancy are unknown. The objective of this study was to determine whether prenatal lifestyle interventions that reduce gestational weight gain in pregnant women have a positive ripple effect on untreated partners’ weight.

Methods

Two clinical trials with the same outcome measures randomly assigned pregnant women to a lifestyle intervention or usual care. Untreated partners were randomly assigned according to their pregnant partner’s group allocation and were assessed at study entry (~13 weeks’ gestation), 35 weeks’ gestation, and 6 and 12 months after delivery.

Results

A total of 122 partners (100% male, 23% Hispanic, 82% married, and 48% with obesity) were randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 59) or usual care (n = 63). There was no intervention or intervention‐by‐time interaction effect on partner weight (P = 0.795). Partner weight changes were not statistically significant (P = 0.120) from study entry to 35 weeks’ gestation (mean 0.19 kg; 95% CI: ‒0.73 to 1.24) or to 12 months after delivery (mean 0.82 kg; 95% CI: ‒0.26 to 1.91).

Conclusions

There was no evidence of a ripple effect on partner weight. In a self‐selected sample, partners of pregnant women appeared not to experience sympathy weight gain.
Cytoplasmic cyclin D1 regulates glioblastoma dissemination
Authors: Cemeli Tània , Guasch‐Vallés Marta , Nàger Mireia , Felip Isidre , Cambray Serafí , Santacana Maria , Gatius Sònia , Pedraza Neus , Dolcet Xavier , Ferrezuelo Francisco , Schuhmacher Alberto J , Herreros Judit , Garí Eloi
Published: April 2019

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly invasive brain neoplasia with an elevated recurrence rate after surgical resection. The cyclin D1 (Ccnd1)/Cdk4–retinoblastoma 1 (RB1) axis is frequently altered in GBM, leading to overproliferation by RB1 deletion or by Ccnd1‐Cdk4 overactivation. High levels of Ccnd1‐Cdk4 also promote GBM cell invasion by mechanisms that are not so well understood. The purpose of this work is to elucidate the in vivo role of cytoplasmic Ccnd1‐Cdk4 activity in the dissemination of GBM. We show that Ccnd1 activates the invasion of primary human GBM cells through cytoplasmic RB1‐independent mechanisms. By using GBM mouse models, we observed that evaded GBM cells showed cytoplasmic Ccnd1 colocalizing with regulators of cell invasion such as RalA and paxillin. Our genetic data strongly suggest that, in GBM cells, the Ccnd1‐Cdk4 complex is acting upstream of those regulators. Accordingly, expression of Ccnd1 induces focal adhesion kinase, RalA and Rac1 activities. Finally, in vivo experiments demonstrated increased GBM dissemination after expression of membrane‐targeted Ccnd1. We conclude that Ccnd1‐Cdk4 activity promotes GBM dissemination through cytoplasmic and RB1‐independent mechanisms. Therefore, inhibition of Ccnd1‐Cdk4 activity may be useful to hinder the dissemination of recurrent GBM. © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proof‐of‐Concept Studies Directed toward the Formation of Metallic Ag Nanostructures from Ag3PO4 Induced by Electron Beam and Femtosecond Laser
Authors: dos Santos Clayane Carvalho , de Assis Marcelo , Machado Thales Rafael , dos Santos Pereira Paula Fabiana , Minguez‐Vega Gladys , Cordoncillo Eloisa , Beltran‐Mir Hector , Doñate‐Buendía Carlos , Andrés Juan , Longo Elson
Published: April 2019

In this work, for the first time, the instantaneous nucleation and growth processes of Ag nanoparticles on Ag3PO4 mediated by femtosecond laser pulses are reported and analyzed. The investigated samples are pure Ag3PO4 sample, electron‐irradiated Ag3PO4 sample, and laser‐irradiated sample. Complete characterization of the samples is performed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Rietveld refinements, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). XRD confirms that the irradiated surface layer remains crystalline, and according to EDS analysis, the surface particles are composed primarily of Ag nanoparticles. This method not only offers a one‐step route to synthesize Ag nanoparticles using laser‐assisted irradiation with particle size control, but also reports a complex process involving the formation and subsequent growth of Ag nanoparticles through an unexpected additive‐free in situ fabrication process.
Chiral Ag and Au Nanomaterials Based Optical Approaches for Analytical Applications
Authors: Xu Dong , Lin Qinlu , Chang Huan‐Tsung
Published: April 2019

Sensing of chiral compounds has gained great attentions for many decades. Chiral nanomaterials with a greater surface area, optical properties, and stability have however not been well realized in this field. Herein, strategies for the preparation of chiral Ag and Au nanomaterials are focused upon, including Ag and Au nanoparticles conjugated with chiral molecules with/without containing fluorophores, chiral nanoassemblies of Ag and Au nanoparticles, and chiral Ag and Au nanoclusters. The chirality of nanomaterials originates from their core and/or ligand, meanwhile that for nanoassemblies results from their complex spatial configuration. An emphasis is given to circular dichroism, colorimetry/UV–vis absorption, and fluorescence detection modes for sensing enantiomers and achiral analytes using the chiral Ag and Au nanomaterials. Several interesting examples for quantitation of DNA, proteins, peptides, drugs, and pollutants are provided to highlight their potential as sensitive and selective nanomaterials for enantiomer recognition and sensing of achiral analytes. Several important issues to be solved when using chiral nanomaterials for chiral recognition are specified. Some strategies for improving the sensitivity and selectivity of chiral nanomaterials for chiral recognition are suggested. The aim is to bring more attention to the potential of chiral nanomaterials for sensing important analytes such as chiral drugs.
Penetration Capability of EFPs Against Explosive Reactive Armor
Authors: Nie Yuan , Jiang Jian‐wei , Wang Shu‐you , Liu Han , Men Jian‐bing
Published: April 2019

This study aimed to investigate the interference of explosive reactive armor (ERA) on the penetration capability of explosively formed projectiles (EFPs). A numerical simulation model of EFP and the ERA interaction system was established. Flash X‐ray experiments for observing the interaction between EFP and ERA were performed. It turned out that the simulation method and material model was valid. From the numerical simulation, the residual depth of penetration (RDOP) of EFPs with different materials, scales, and shapes at several angles was evaluated, and the mechanism of ERA interference EFP was revealed. The results suggested that after an EFP passed through an ERA, its RDOP to target decreased with an increase in the angle and explosive layer thickness. The higher the density of EFP is, the stronger the resistance ability of EFP to ERA is. For copper EFPs, in the EFP charge diameter range of 90 mm to 170 mm, each 10‐mm growth in the EFP charge diameter results in an approximately 0.025 P0 increment in RDOP (P0 is penetration depth of EFP without ERA interference). Moreover, in the condition of the same mass, for each increase of 1 in the aspect ratio of the EFP, the RDOP increased by approximately 0.05 P0. In addition, calculation models for the RDOP, considering the charge diameter and EFP shape, were established respectively.
The uncharacterized bacterial protein YejG has the same architecture as domain III of elongation factor G
Authors: Mohanty Biswaranjan , Hanson‐Manful Paulina , Finn Thomas J. , Chambers Cecilia R. , McKellar James L. O. , Macindoe Ingrid , Helder Stephanie , Setiyaputra Surya , Zhong Yichen , Mackay Joel P. , Patrick Wayne M.
Published: April 2019

InterPro family IPR020489 comprises ~1000 uncharacterized bacterial proteins. Previously we showed that overexpressing the Escherichia coli representative of this family, EcYejG, conferred low‐level resistance to aminoglycoside antibiotics. In an attempt to shed light on the biochemical function of EcYejG, we have solved its structure using multinuclear solution NMR spectroscopy. The structure most closely resembles that of domain III from elongation factor G (EF‐G). EF‐G catalyzes ribosomal translocation and mutations in EF‐G have also been associated with aminoglycoside resistance. While we were unable to demonstrate a direct interaction between EcYejG and the ribosome, the protein might play a role in translation.
Rhizobacterial treatments of tall fescue and bermudagrass increases tolerance to damage from white grubs
Authors: Coy Richard Murphey , Held David W , Kloepper Joseph W
Published: April 2019

Background

Inoculation of hybrid bermudagrass with plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can increase plant growth and influence relationships with above‐ground herbivores like fall armyworms. However, few experiments have evaluated PGPR applications relative to root herbivory. Root‐feeding white grubs cause severe damage to grasses, especially in tall fescue pastures, golf courses, and lawns. Since bacterial inoculants enhance root growth, the goal of this study was to determine if the inoculation of hybrid bermudagrass by rhizobacteria can increase the tolerance of tall fescue and hybrid bermudagrass to damage from white grub feeding, and if PGPR are compatible with neonicotinoid insecticides commonly used for white grub control.

Results

In trials with tall fescue and hybrid bermudagrass, grasses were treated with the PGPR strain mixture Blend 20 or nitrogen or left non‐treated and were then infested with Japanese beetle grubs. Grasses treated with PGPR and nitrogen fertilizer produced significantly more top growth than the non‐treated grub‐infested controls. Tall fescue and hybrid bermudagrass treated with Blend 20 produced root mass similar to or greater than nitrogen fertilized grasses. Both grasses treated with Blend 20 had greater root mass than non‐treated infested grass. No treatment negatively impacted grub survival, and weight gains of grubs were similar for all treatments. Bacterial strains were typically compatible with insecticides used to control white grubs.

Conclusion

PGPR and nitrogen fertilization stimulate root growth resulting in tolerance of tall fescue and hybrid bermudagrass to white grub infestation. PGPR, acting as biostimulants to increase root biomass on grasses, may have utility for IPM of root herbivores. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
A subregional analysis of family change: The spatial diffusion of one‐parent families across Italian municipalities, 1991–2011
Authors: Caltabiano Marcantonio , Dreassi Emanuela , Rocco Emilia , Vignoli Daniele
Published: April 2019

This paper documents the expansion of new family patterns in Italy by scrutinising the spatial diffusion of one‐parent families across Italian municipalities for the period 1991–2011. We apply a hierarchical Bayesian model to the data of the last three Italian Population Censuses, acknowledging that variation cannot be broken down into temporal and spatial effects because space–time interaction is at the very heart of family changes. Our results illustrate substantial subregional and sub‐provincial heterogeneities in the spatial organisation of family systems, patterns that might have gone undetected had larger territorial units of analysis been considered. In addition, we show that especially socio‐economic factors were associated to the diffusion of new family forms. This paper challenges international scholarship that caricatures Italy as a monolithic, homogeneous family‐oriented country.
Plasmonic Properties of Halloysite Nanotubes with Immobilized Silver Nanoparticles for Applications in Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Kornilova Anastasiia V. , Gorbachevskii Maxim V. , Kuralbayeva Galiya A. , Jana Subhra , Novikov Andrei A. , Eliseev Andrei A. , Vasiliev Alexander N. , Timoshenko Victor Yu.
Published: April 2019

Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) with surface‐immobilized silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) are explored as nano‐templates for the surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). The structure and plasmonic properties of HNTs/Ag nanocomposite during storage in water are checked by means of the transmission electron microscopy and optical absorption spectroscopy, respectively. A remarkable SERS response is observed for and the SERS activity of HNTs/Ag stored in water for 1 week decreases by several times. The observed SERS‐activity is explained by desired morphology of Ag NP distribution on the surface of HNTs, which is modified during storage in aqueous medium. The revealed SERS activity of HNTs/Ag nanocomposites seems to be promising for their application in biosensorics.
Unraveling the Modified PEDOT:PSS Thin Films Based Near‐Infrared Solar‐Heat Shields by Using Broadband Transmittance and Raman Scattering Spectrometers
Authors: Lai Ming‐Kung , Wu Jia‐Ren , Yeh Jui‐Ming , Chang Sheng Hsiung
Published: April 2019

Semi‐transparent poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) thin films are deposited on top of a glass substrate by using a spraying method with different solvent viscosities. The resultant films are characterized through surface profiler, broadband transmittance spectrometer and Raman scattering spectrometer. The experimental results show that the viscosity of PEDOT:PSS solutions influences the thickness, evenness, transmittance and molecular structure of PEDOT chains of the resultant PEDOT:PSS thin films. The sprayed PEDOT:PSS thin film can efficiently block the near‐infrared lights, which significantly decreases the environmental temperature from 39.3 to 35.3 °C, while keeping a moderate transmittance in the visible wavelength range.
Theoretical Device Engineering for High‐Performance Perovskite Solar Cells Using CuSCN as Hole Transport Material Boost the Efficiency Above 25%
Authors: Haider Syed Zulqarnain , Anwar Hafeez , Wang Mingqing
Published: April 2019

Recently, perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have achieved remarkable power conversion efficiency (PCE) about 22.6%. While most of the hole transport materials (HTMs) used in PSCs are organic in nature with an issue of instability and high cost. In this paper, copper thiocyanate (CuSCN), a low cost inorganic HTM with excellent thermal and moisture stability, is applied as HTM for perovskite solar cells. The device modeling of PSCs is based on the device structure of FTO/TiO2/MAPbI3/CuSCN/Au. Two interface defect layers, IDL1 as electron transport material (ETM)/absorber interface and IDL2 as absorber/HTM interface, are introduced into the device model in order to study the impact of interface quality on the performance of PSCs. Among all of the parameters, defect density and conduction band offset (CBO) at ETM/absorber interface together with the defect density of absorber influence the device performance appreciably. Upon optimization of all of the parameters, PCE of the device approaches to 25.02%, which is very encouraging. The result shows that lead‐based PSC with CuSCN as HTM is an efficient system due to its enhanced hole transport, high electric conductivity, and improved chemical interaction with absorber. Further, defect density of ETM/absorber interface and absorber layer could be reduced by optimized deposition process.
A generalized Bayesian nonlinear mixed‐effects regression model for zero‐inflated longitudinal count data in tuberculosis trials
Authors: Burger Divan Aristo , Schall Robert , Jacobs Rianne , Chen Ding‐Geng
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we investigate Bayesian generalized nonlinear mixed‐effects (NLME) regression models for zero‐inflated longitudinal count data. The methodology is motivated by and applied to colony forming unit (CFU) counts in extended bactericidal activity tuberculosis (TB) trials. Furthermore, for model comparisons, we present a generalized method for calculating the marginal likelihoods required to determine Bayes factors. A simulation study shows that the proposed zero‐inflated negative binomial regression model has good accuracy, precision, and credibility interval coverage. In contrast, conventional normal NLME regression models applied to log‐transformed count data, which handle zero counts as left censored values, may yield credibility intervals that undercover the true bactericidal activity of anti‐TB drugs. We therefore recommend that zero‐inflated NLME regression models should be fitted to CFU count on the original scale, as an alternative to conventional normal NLME regression models on the logarithmic scale.
BK virus: Current understanding of pathogenicity and clinical disease in transplantation
Authors: Chong Stephanie , Antoni Michelle , Macdonald Andrew , Reeves Matthew , Harber Mark , Magee Ciara N.
Published: April 2019

BK polyomavirus (BKV) is an important cause of graft loss in renal transplant recipients that continues to pose a significant challenge to clinicians due to its frequently unpredictable onset, persistence, and the lack of effective antiviral agents or prevention strategies. This review covers our current understanding of epidemiology, viral transmission and disease progression, and treatment and prevention strategies that have been used to manage this disease.
Distributed fixed‐time consensus for multiagent systems with unknown control directions
Authors: Liu Yan , Yang Guang‐Hong
Published: April 2019

This paper investigates the consensus problem for high‐order multiagent systems with unknown control directions and directed communication constraints. To handle the problem of unknown control directions, a logic switching rule is established in the framework of fixed‐time stability. Then, the consensus is achieved in two steps. A group of distributed fixed‐time observers is designed to estimate the reference signals first. Based on these estimates and the designed logic switching rule, a novel control protocol is proposed for each follower system. Different from the existing results, the consensus is achieved with a fixed‐time convergence rate, and the unknown control directions are allowed to be nonidentical for each agent. Finally, simulation results are given to exhibit the validity of the proposed method.
Prioritized concordance index for hierarchical survival outcomes
Authors: Cheung Li C. , Pan Qing , Hyun Noorie , Katki Hormuzd A.
Published: April 2019

We propose an extension of Harrell's concordance (C) index to evaluate the prognostic utility of biomarkers for diseases with multiple measurable outcomes that can be prioritized. Our prioritized concordance index measures the probability that, given a random subject pair, the subject with the worst disease status as of a time τ has the higher predicted risk. Our prioritized concordance index uses the same approach as the win ratio, by basing generalized pairwise comparisons on the most severe or clinically important comparable outcome. We use an inverse probability weighting technique to correct for study‐specific censoring. Asymptotic properties are derived using U‐statistic properties. We apply the prioritized concordance index to two types of disease processes with a rare primary outcome and a more common secondary outcome. Our simulation studies show that when a predictor is predictive of both outcomes, the new concordance index can gain efficiency and power in identifying true prognostic variables compared to using the primary outcome alone. Using the prioritized concordance index, we examine whether novel clinical measures can be useful in predicting risk of type II diabetes in patients with impaired glucose resistance whose disease status can also regress to normal glucose resistance. We also examine the discrimination ability of four published risk models among ever smokers at risk of lung cancer incidence and subsequent death.
Nitrogen Boosts Defective Vanadium Oxide from Semiconducting to Metallic Merit
Authors: Ma Zhongyuan , Rui Kun , Zhang Yao , Li Desheng , Wang Qingqing , Zhang Qiao , Du Min , Yan Jiaxu , Zhang Chao , Huang Xiao , Zhu Jixin , Huang Wei
Published: April 2019

2D metal oxide nanosheets have attracted substantial attention for various applications owing to their appealing advantages. Yet, the exploration of effective methodology for fabrication of metallic 2D metal oxides with a high concentration of N dopants in a scalable manner remains challenging. Herein, a topochemical strategy is demonstrated on vanadium oxide nanosheets by combining 2D nanostructuring, heteroatom‐doping, and defect engineering for modulating their intrinsic electronic structure and greatly enhancing their electrochemical property. O vacancies and N dopants (VON and VN bonds) are in situ formed in vanadium oxide via nitridation and lead to semiconductive‐to‐metallic phase transformation evidenced by experimental results and theoretical calculation. Overall, the N‐VO0.9 nanosheets exhibit a metallic electron transportation behavior and excellent electrochemical performance. These findings shed light on the rational design and electron structure tuning of 2D nanostructures for energy and electronics applications.