bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Second‐hit DEPDC5 mutation is limited to dysmorphic neurons in cortical dysplasia type IIA
Authors: Lee Wei Shern , Stephenson Sarah E. M. , Howell Katherine B. , Pope Kate , Gillies Greta , Wray Alison , Maixner Wirginia , Mandelstam Simone A. , Berkovic Samuel F. , Scheffer Ingrid E. , MacGregor Duncan , Harvey Anthony Simon , Lockhart Paul J. , Leventer Richard J.
Published: June 2019

Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) causes drug‐resistant epilepsy and is associated with pathogenic variants in mTOR pathway genes. How germline variants cause these focal lesions is unclear, however a germline + somatic “2‐hit” model is hypothesized. In a boy with drug‐resistant epilepsy, FCD, and a germline DEPDC5 pathogenic variant, we show that a second‐hit DEPDC5 variant is limited to dysmorphic neurons, and the somatic mutation load correlates with both dysmorphic neuron density and the epileptogenic zone. These findings provide new insights into the molecular and cellular correlates of FCD determining drug‐resistant epilepsy and refine conceptualization of the epileptogenic zone.
Cognitive consequences of playing brain‐training games in immersive virtual reality
Authors: Parong Jocelyn , Mayer Richard E.
Published: June 2019

The goal of the present study was to examine the effects of playing an immersive virtual reality game that included a collection of gamified cognitive tasks, Cerevrum, on specific components of cognition, including perceptual attention, mental rotation, working memory, visualization, visual field of view, and visual processing speed. Participants completed a pretest of cognitive assessments, played one of the two mini‐games within Cerevrum (Stardust or Heroes) for 1.5 hr over three 30‐min sessions and then completed a posttest of cognitive assessments and a questionnaire about interest and engagement during the game. An inactive control group completed only the pretest and posttest. Results showed no significant differences among the Heroes group, Stardust group, and control group on the posttest scores, even when controlled for pretest scores. These findings do not support the claim that playing brain‐training games for a short period results in transfer of cognitive training to nongame venues.
Orofacial Motor Functions and Temporomandibular Disorders in Patients With Sjögren's Syndrome
Authors: Zanin Mariana Cristina , Garcia Denny Marcos , Rocha Eduardo Melani , de Felício Cláudia Maria
Published: June 2019

Objective

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) induces difficulty in chewing and swallowing due to low salivary flow. However, these symptoms may be associated with other factors, such as orofacial myofunctional disorders and temporomandibular disorder (TMD), which have not been comprehensively assessed in this population. The aims of this study were to investigate orofacial muscles and functions as well as the presence of TMD in patients with SS compared with a group without SS and to analyze whether the patients’ experience of limitations in orofacial functioning is associated with the orofacial functional status and muscle pain related to TMD.

Methods

Women with SS based on the 2002 American–European Consensus Group criteria and volunteers paired by age and sex were compared. The examinations included the orofacial myofunctional evaluation with scores (OMES) protocol, tongue and lip strength measures, and electromyography of the masticatory muscles. TMD investigations included clinical examination, self‐report of symptoms, and assessment according to the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale.

Results

Patients with SS present with impaired muscle and orofacial functions based on lower scores of all categories of OMES (P < 0.0001), tongue strength (P = 0.0003–0.0004), and masticatory muscle activity (P = 0.0002–0.007), as well as worse TMD signs and symptoms (P < 0.05) and jaw functional limitation (P < 0.0001–0.0003).

Conclusion

Patients’ experiences with limitation in mastication and swallowing were associated with orofacial myofunctional status and muscle pain related to TMD. Those disorders should be monitored along with disease control and must be addressed in the clinical evaluation to prevent nutritional and metabolic comorbidities in patients with SS.
Comorbidities in Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Swain Subhashisa , Sarmanova Aliya , Coupland Carol , Doherty Michael , Zhang Weiya
Published: June 2019

Objective

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common chronic condition in older individuals, but its association with other chronic conditions is largely unknown. This study aimed to systematically review the literature on comorbidities in individuals with OA compared to those without.

Methods

We searched 4 databases for observational studies on comorbidities in individuals with OA. Studies of OA only or in comparison with non‐OA controls were included. The risk of bias and study quality were assessed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. The prevalence of comorbidities in the OA group and the prevalence ratio (PR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) between OA and non‐OA groups were calculated.

Results

In all, 42 studies from 16 countries (27 case‐only and 15 comparative studies) met the inclusion criteria. The mean age of participants varied from 51 to 76 years. The pooled prevalence of any comorbidity was 67% (95% CI 57–74) in individuals with OA versus 56% (95% CI 44–68) in individuals without OA. The pooled PR for any comorbidity was 1.21 (95% CI 1.02–1.45). The PR increased from 0.73 (95% CI 0.43–1.25) for 1 comorbidity to 1.58 (95% CI 1.03–2.42) for 2, and to 1.94 (95% CI 1.45–2.59) for ≥3 comorbidities. The key comorbidities associated with OA were stroke (PR 2.61 [95% CI 2.13–3.21]), peptic ulcer (PR 2.36 [95% CI 1.71–3.27]), and metabolic syndrome (PR 1.94 [95% CI 1.21–3.12]).

Conclusion

Individuals with OA are more likely to have other chronic conditions. The association is dose‐dependent in terms of the number of comorbidities, suggesting multimorbidities. Further studies on the causality of this association and clinical implications are needed.
Live Zoster Vaccine in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis Treated With Tofacitinib With or Without Methotrexate, or Adalimumab With Methotrexate: A Post Hoc Analysis of Data From a Phase IIIb/IV Randomized Study
Authors: Calabrese Leonard H. , Abud‐Mendoza Carlos , Lindsey Stephen M. , Lee Sang‐Heon , Tatulych Svitlana , Takiya Liza , Iikuni Noriko , Soma Koshika , Luo Zhen , Fleischmann Roy
Published: June 2019

Objective

To explore herpes zoster (HZ) rates and live zoster vaccine (LZV) safety in a subset of patients with rheumatoid arthritis who received LZV before tofacitinib ± methotrexate (MTX), or adalimumab (ADA) plus MTX in the ORAL Strategy.

Methods

ORAL Strategy was a 1‐year, phase IIIb/IV, randomized, triple‐dummy, active‐comparator–controlled study. MTX‐inadequate responder patients received tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily (BID), tofacitinib 5 mg BID plus MTX, or ADA 40 mg every other week plus MTX (1:1:1 randomization). Eligible patients age ≥50 years could opt to receive LZV 28 days before initiating study treatment. HZ incidence rates (IRs; patients with events per 100 patient‐years) were calculated. Opportunistic HZ infections (multidermatomal/disseminated), serious HZ events, and LZV‐related adverse events were monitored.

Results

In ORAL Strategy, 216 of 1,146 patients (18.8%) received LZV. Overall, 18 patients (1.6%) developed HZ (vaccinated: n = 3; nonvaccinated: n = 15). HZ IRs were 1.1 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.3–2.9), 2.3 (95% CI 1.0–4.6), and 1.7 (95% CI 0.6–3.7) for tofacitinib monotherapy, tofacitinib plus MTX, and ADA plus MTX, respectively, and were generally similar between vaccinated and nonvaccinated patients. Three multidermatomal, 1 disseminated, and 2 serious HZ events occurred. No vaccinated patients had zoster‐like lesions within 42 days of vaccination; 1 patient had vaccination‐site erythema.

Conclusion

LZV was well tolerated, and HZ IRs were generally similar between treatment groups and vaccinated versus nonvaccinated patients. However, ORAL Strategy was not powered for comparisons between vaccinated and nonvaccinated patients because <20% of all patients were vaccinated. Furthermore, LZV has been shown to be effective only in ~50% of individuals.
Rapid Near‐Infrared Light Responsive Shape Memory Polymer Hybrids and Novel Chiral Actuators Based on Photothermal W18O49 Nanowires
Authors: Zhou Yue , Tan Junyan , Chong Dandan , Wan Xinhua , Zhang Jie
Published: June 2019

Photoresponsive actuators are built by introducing oligo(ethylene glycol) (OEG)‐modified W18O49 nanowires into cross‐linked polyethylene glycol diacrylate (cPEGDA) polymer matrices. Due to the good compatibility, OEG‐W18O49 NWs disperse well and increase the crystallinity of cPEGDA matrices even in high loading concentrations (4.0 wt%). The cPEGDA/W18O49 nanocomposites show efficient photothermal transition and rapid shape memory behaviors. They can raise the local temperature to 160 °C in only 8.5 s and recover the initial shape within 10 s. Making use of the broad and strong absorption property of W18O49, the cPEGDA/W18O49 NW actuators respond to both ultraviolet and near‐infrared light and make contraction and bending motions. Furthermore, by utilizing oriented chain segments of the crystalline polymer and vector sum of shape recovery forces, the cPEGDA/W18O49 NW hybrid actuators exhibit stable helical deformation (right‐handed and left‐handed).
One Stimulus In Situ Induces Two Sequential Luminescence Switchings in the Same Solvent‐Fuming Process: Anthracene Excimer as the Intermediate
Authors: Liu Haichao , Shen Yue , Yan Yan , Zhou Changjiang , Zhang Shitong , Li Bao , Ye Ling , Yang Bing
Published: June 2019

Commonly, one stimulus only induces one luminescence switching in stimuli‐responsive experiment. Herein, it is reported that one stimulus in situ induces two luminescent switches, resulting from two phase transitions in a solvent‐fuming process. Two phase transitions are in situ composed of a first fast and a subsequent slow process, corresponding to the change of molecular packing from the amorphous state to the π–π dimer crystalline state to the cocrystalline state with the inclusion of solvents, accompanied with luminescent transformation from pure blue to green to deep blue. Theoretical and experimental results reveal that the staggered π–π dimer stacking of anthracenes serves as the intermediate state to bridge the two phase transitions. This finding expands a new horizon in the stimuli‐responsive field and inspires novel applications in information storage and security fields.
Porous Enzymatic Membrane for Nanotextured Glucose Sweat Sensors with High Stability toward Reliable Noninvasive Health Monitoring
Authors: Lin Yuanjing , Bariya Mallika , Nyein Hnin Yin Yin , Kivimäki Liisa , Uusitalo Sanna , Jansson Elina , Ji Wenbo , Yuan Zhen , Happonen Tuomas , Liedert Christina , Hiltunen Jussi , Fan Zhiyong , Javey Ali
Published: June 2019

Development of reliable glucose sensors for noninvasive monitoring without interruption or limiting users' mobility is highly desirable, especially for diabetes diagnostics, which requires routine/long‐term monitoring. However, their applications are largely limited by the relatively poor stability. Herein, a porous membrane is synthesized for effective enzyme immobilization and it is robustly anchored to the modified nanotextured electrode solid contacts, so as to realize glucose sensors with significantly enhanced sensing stability and mechanical robustness. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of utilizing such nanoporous membranes for electrochemical sensor applications, which eliminates enzyme escape and provides a sufficient surface area for molecular/ion diffusion and interactions, thus ensuring the sustainable catalytic activities of the sensors and generating reliable measureable signals during noninvasive monitoring. The as‐assembled nanostructured glucose sensors demonstrate reliable long‐term stable monitoring with a minimal response drift for up to 20 h, which delivers a remarkable enhancement. Moreover, they can be integrated into a microfluidic sensing patch for noninvasive sweat glucose monitoring. The as‐synthesized nanostructured glucose sensors with remarkable stability can inspire developments of various enzymatic biosensors for reliable noninvasive composition analysis and their ultimate applications in predictive clinical diagnostics, personalized health‐care monitoring, and chronic diseases management.
Stretchable and Temperature‐Sensitive Polymer Optical Fibers for Wearable Health Monitoring
Authors: Guo Jingjing , Zhou Bingqian , Yang Changxi , Dai Qionghai , Kong Lingjie
Published: June 2019

Stretchable physical sensors that can detect and quantify human physiological signals such as temperature, are essential to the realization of healthcare devices for biomedical monitoring and human–machine interfaces. Despite recent achievements in stretchable electronic sensors using various conductive materials and structures, the design of stretchable sensors in optics remains a considerable challenge. Here, an optical strategy for the design of stretchable temperature sensors, which can maintain stable performance even under a strain deformation up to 80%, is reported. The optical temperature sensor is fabricated by the incorporation of thermal‐sensitive upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) in stretchable polymer‐based optical fibers (SPOFs). The SPOFs are made from stretchable elastomers and constructed in a step‐index core/cladding structure for effective light confinements. The UCNPs, incorporated in the SPOFs, provide thermal‐sensitive upconversion emissions at dual wavelengths for ratiometric temperature sensing by near‐infrared excitation, while the SPOFs endow the sensor with skin‐like mechanical compliance and excellent light‐guiding characteristics for laser delivery and emission collection. The broad applications of the proposed sensor in real‐time monitoring of the temperature and thermal activities of the human body, providing optical alternatives for wearable health monitoring, are demonstrated.
Recent Advances in Fiber Supercapacitors: Materials, Device Configurations, and Applications
Authors: Chen Di , Jiang Kai , Huang Tingting , Shen Guozhen
Published: June 2019

Fiber supercapacitors (SCs), with their small size and weight, excellent flexibility and deformability, and high capacitance and power density, are recognized as one of the most robust power supplies available for wearable electronics. They can be woven into breathable textiles or integrated into different functional materials to fit curved surfaces for use in day‐to‐day life. A comprehensive review on recent important development and progress in fiber SCs is provided, with respect to the active electrode materials, device configurations, functions, integrations. Active electrode materials based on different electrochemical mechanisms and intended to improve performance including carbon‐based materials, metal oxides, and hybrid composites, are first summarized. The three main types of fiber SCs, namely parallel, twist, and coaxial structures, are then discussed, followed by the exploration of some functions including stretchability and self‐healing. Miniaturized integration of fiber SCs to obtain flexible energy fibers and integrated sensing systems is also discussed. Finally, a short conclusion is made, combining with comments on the current challenges and potential solutions in this field.
Fiber‐Based Energy Conversion Devices for Human‐Body Energy Harvesting
Authors: Huang Liang , Lin Shizhe , Xu Zisheng , Zhou He , Duan Jiangjiang , Hu Bin , Zhou Jun
Published: June 2019

Following the rapid development of lightweight and flexible smart electronic products, providing energy for these electronics has become a hot research topic. The human body produces considerable mechanical and thermal energy during daily activities, which could be used to power most wearable electronics. In this context, fiber‐based energy conversion devices (FBECD) are proposed as candidates for effective conversion of human‐body energy into electricity for powering wearable electronics. Herein, functional materials, fiber fabrication techniques, and device design strategies for different classes of FBECD based on piezoelectricity, triboelectricity, electrostaticity, and thermoelectricity are comprehensively reviewed. An overview of fiber‐based self‐powered systems and sensors according to their superior flexibility and cost‐effectiveness is also presented. Finally, the challenges and opportunities in the field of fiber‐based energy conversion are discussed.
Validation of Printed, Skin‐Mounted Multilead Electrode for ECG Measurements
Authors: Vuorinen Tiina , Noponen Kai , Vehkaoja Antti , Onnia Timo , Laakso Eeva , Leppänen Susanna , Mansikkamäki Kirsi , Seppänen Tapio , Mäntysalo Matti
Published: June 2019

An electrocardiography (ECG) monitoring can be used to detect heart‐related abnormalities by recording cardiac activity over a period of time. The conventional 12‐lead ECG measurement system is the standard practice for the evaluation of the heart's electrical activity. However, a recent trend is to develop patch‐type measurement devices for unobtrusive ECG monitoring by reducing device size and number of electrodes on the skin. This development aims to minimize the discomfort for the user from the wearable recording devices. A printed, bandage‐type hybrid system for continuous ECG monitoring to allow as much comfort as possible while maintaining the signal quality required for medical evaluation is proposed. Movement artifacts in recorded ECG signals are a challenge in long‐term monitoring while the patients are engaged in their everyday activities. The movement artifacts from the printed skin‐conformable electrode are compared to commercial exercise stress‐test ECG electrodes during different physical activities and stationary periods. The results show that the signal quality obtained with the multilead patch ECG electrode, manufactured with printing technologies, is comparable to electrodes currently used in healthcare.
A Confined Replacement Synthesis of Bismuth Nanodots in MOF Derived Carbon Arrays as Binder‐Free Anodes for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Yifang , Su Qiong , Xu Wenjie , Cao Guozhong , Wang Yaping , Pan Anqiang , Liang Shuquan
Published: June 2019

The inferior tolerance with reversible accommodation of large‐sized Na+ ion in electrode materials has plagued the adaptability of sodium‐ion chemistry. The sluggish diffusion kinetics of Na+ also baffles the desirability. Herein, a carbon fiber supported binder‐free electrode consisting of bismuth and carbon composite is designed. Well‐confined bismuth nanodots are synthesized by replacing cobalt in the metal–organic frameworks (MOF)–derived, nitrogen‐doped carbon arrays, which are demonstrated with remarkable reversibility during sodiation and desodiation. Cobalt species in the pristine MOF catalyze the graphitization around organic components in calcination, generating a highly conductive network in which the bismuth is to be embedded. The uniformly dispersed bismuth nanodots provide plenty boundaries and abundant active sites in the carbon arrays, where fast sodium storage kinetics are realized to contribute extra capacity and excellent rate performance.
[Ln6O8] Cluster‐Encapsulating Polyplumbites as New Polyoxometalate Members and Record Inorganic Anion‐Exchange Materials for ReO4− Sequestration
Authors: Lin Jian , Zhu Lin , Yue Zenghui , Yang Chuang , Liu Wei , Albrecht‐Schmitt Thomas E. , Wang Jian‐Qiang , Wang Shuao
Published: June 2019

Various types of polyoxometalates (POMs) have been synthesized since the 19th century, but their assortment has been mostly limited to Groups 5 and 6 metals. Herein, a new family of POMs composed of a carbon group element as the addenda atoms with two distinct phases, LnPbOClO4‐1 (Ln = Sm to Ho, Y) and LnPbOClO4‐2 (Ln = Er and Tm) is reported. Both structures are built from [Ln6O8] rare‐earth metal hexamers being incorporated in [Pb18O32]/[Pb12O24] polyplumbites, and unbound perchlorates as charge‐balancing anions. Impressively, YPbOClO4‐1 and ErPbOClO4‐2 exhibit exceptional uptake capacities (434.7 and 427.7 mg g−1) toward ReO4−, a chemical surrogate for the key radioactive fission product in the nuclear fuel cycle 99TcO4−, which are the highest values among all inorganic anion‐exchange materials reported until now. The sorption mechanism is clearly elucidated and visualized by single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal structural transformation from ErPbOClO4‐2 to a perrhenate‐containing complex ErPbOReO4, revealing a unique ReO4− uptake selectivity driven by specific interaction within Pb···O‐ReO3− bonds.
Emergence of Function and Selection from Recursively Programmed Polymerisation Reactions in Mineral Environments
Authors: Doran David , Abul‐Haija Yousef M. , Cronin Leroy
Published: June 2019

Living systems are characterised by an ability to sustain chemical reaction networks far‐from‐equilibrium. It is likely that life first arose through a process of continual disruption of equilibrium states in recursive reaction networks, driven by periodic environmental changes. Herein, we report the emergence of proto‐enzymatic function from recursive polymerisation reactions using amino acids and glycolic acid. Reactions were kept out of equilibrium by diluting products 9:1 in fresh starting solution at the end of each recursive cycle, and the development of complex high molecular weight species is explored using a new metric, the Mass Index, which allows the complexity of the system to be explored as a function of cycle. This process was carried out on a range of different mineral environments. We explored the hypothesis that disrupting equilibrium via recursive cycling imposes a selection pressure and subsequent boundary conditions on products. After just four reaction cycles, product mixtures from recursive reactions exhibit greater catalytic activity and truncation of product space towards higher‐molecular‐weight species compared to non‐recursive controls.
Iron‐Catalyzed C−H Activation with Propargyl Acetates: Mechanistic Insights into Iron(II) by Experiment, Kinetics, Mössbauer Spectroscopy, and Computation
Authors: Mo Jiayu , Müller Thomas , Oliveira João C. A. , Demeshko Serhiy , Meyer Franc , Ackermann Lutz
Published: June 2019

An iron‐catalyzed C−H/N−H alkyne annulation was realized by using a customizable clickable triazole amide under exceedingly mild reaction conditions. A unifying mechanistic approach combining experiment, spectroscopy, kinetics, and computation provided strong support for facile C−H activation by a ligand‐to‐ligand hydrogen transfer (LLHT) mechanism. Combined Mössbauer spectroscopic analysis and DFT calculations were indicative of high‐spin iron(II) species as the key intermediates in the C−H activation manifold.
1,2‐(Bis)trifluoromethylation of Alkynes: A One‐Step Reaction to Install an Underutilized Functional Group
Authors: Guo Shuo , AbuSalim Deyaa I. , Cook Silas P.
Published: June 2019

Modifying the electronic properties of olefins is the quintessential approach to tuning alkene reactivity. In this context, the exploration of trifluoromethyl groups as divergent electronic modifiers has not been considered. In this work, we describe a copper‐mediated 1,2‐(bis)trifluoromethylation of acetylenes to create E‐hexafluorobutenes (E‐HFBs) under blue light in a single step. The reaction proceeds with high yield and E/Z selectivity. Since the alkyne captures two trifluoromethyl groups from each molecule of bpyCu(CF3)3, mechanistic studies were conducted to illuminate the role of the reactants. Interestingly, E‐HFBs exhibit remarkable stability to standard olefin functionalization reactions in spite of the pendant trifluoromethyl groups. This finding has significant implications for medicine, agroscience, and materials.
Preparation of a monolithic and macroporous superabsorbent polymer via a high internal phase Pickering emulsion template
Authors: Shin Heewoong , Kim Subeen , Han YoungKyu , Kim KyuHan , Choi Siyoung Q.
Published: June 2019

A superabsorbent polymer (SAP) possesses an ability to absorb an aqueous solution up to several hundred times its own weight. To utilize a SAP effectively, a high absorption rate is also essential in addition to a high absorption capability. Herein, using a template based on a high internal phase Pickering emulsion (HIPPE) stabilized by aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles, we synthesize a SAP with a high absorption rate by forming macropores. In particular, by adjusting three different parameters, the concentration of the crosslinker, the internal volume fraction of the emulsion, and the particle concentration, we successfully formed a HIPPE‐templated SAP with a high absorption rate for a saline solution, which was 51.6 g g−1of the absorbency within 10 s. We confirm that the swelling kinetics is mainly determined by the interconnectivity between the internal macro‐pores. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 48133.
Effect of hydrophilic and hydrophobic cyclodextrins on the release of encapsulated allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) and their potential application for plastic film extrusion
Authors: Shin Joongmin , Kathuria Ajay , Lee Youn Suk
Published: June 2019

Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a natural pungent flavor from wasabi and horseradish, is well‐known antimicrobial agents against foodborne pathogens. However, its highly volatile nature and low thermal stability restrict its application in the food packaging industry. Also, its strong organoleptic characteristics hinder its application at a higher dosage. We encapsulated AITC in β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) and triacetyl‐β‐CD (TA‐β‐CD) and evaluated the performance as slow releasing active compounds through low‐density polyethylene (LDPE)–cyclodextrins (CDs) matrix. Also, the thermal, optical, mechanical, and barrier properties of two ternary blends, LDPE/β‐CD/AITC(L‐CDs) and LDPE/TA‐β‐CD/AITC(L‐TACDs), were investigated to compare their compatibility under the plastic extrusion process. During the 15 days of the storage period, L‐TACDs maintained more consistent AITC release and a higher concentration than L‐CDs. Also, the blending of LDPE and TA‐β‐CD was more compatible with that of LDPE and β‐CD. No significant optical, mechanical, and barrier property changes were observed in LDPE with less than 3% of TA‐β‐CD while L‐CDs showed substantial agglomeration on the ternary blend films and the lower mechanical and barrier properties than pure LDPE. The results indicate that the LDPE films containing TA‐β‐CD/AITC can be applied as an effective antimicrobial packaging material for food and nonfood applications. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48137.
Policy Transfer and Instrument Constituency: Explaining the Adoption of Conditional Cash Transfer in the Philippines
Authors: Saguin Kidjie , Howlett Michael
Published: June 2019

Transnational policy transfer is a well‐documented phenomenon with studies from across many disciplines. However, the literature tends to over‐theorize but under‐operationalize what is transferred and how it is transferred. A significant issue in this regard concerns ‘agency’: that is, who is supplying and who is demanding policy lessons and examples. This paper highlights a relatively new concept in comparative policy studies, that of the ‘instrument constituency’, within the framework of transnational policymaking. It argues that instrument constituencies or groups of actors unified by their strong affinity with a specific policy tool are key agents in the transfer process, acting as suppliers and brokers of policy ideas, constantly searching to match their preferred solutions to policy problems. As this paper will show, incorporating such constituencies into policy transfer studies allows a better understanding of transfer as part of a sequential process of diffusion, and how knowledge about a policy instrument is assembled and transferred.
Regioselective Photochemical Cycloaddition Reactions of Diolefinic Ligands in Coordination Polymers
Authors: Li Ni‐Ya , Liu Dong , Lang Jian‐Ping
Published: June 2019

The pure diolefinic ligand 1,4‐bis(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐1,3‐butadiene (bpbde) is photostable in the crystalline state. With the assistance of coordination‐driven metal‐organic assemblies, the photoreactivity of this diolefinic ligand can be significantly enhanced. A hydrothermal reaction of bpbde with Cd(NO3)2⋅4 H2O and the auxiliary ligand adipic acid resulted in the formation of a two‐dimensional photoreactive coordination polymer (CP), [Cd(adipate)(bpbde)]n (1). When the aliphatic carboxylic acid was replaced by pimelic acid, another photoreactive CP [Cd(pimelate)(bpbde)]n (2) with a three‐dimensional framework was obtained. With irradiation of 365 nm UV light, the bpbde ligands in crystalline 1 and 2 underwent a regioselective photochemical [2+2] cycloaddition reaction and converted to 3,4,7,8‐tetra(pyridin‐4‐yl)tricyclo[4.2.0.02,5]octane (tptco) and 1,3‐bis(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐2,4‐bis(2‐(pyridin‐4‐yl)vinyl)cyclobutane (bpbpvcb), respectively. The results provide an interesting insight into the rational design of highly regio‐ or stereoselective photocatalytic reactions for the formation of special organic molecules.
Optimization of the enzymatic hydrolysis ofMoringa oleiferaLam oil using molecular docking analysis for fatty acid specificity
Authors: Barbosa Milson S. , Freire Cintia C. C. , Almeida Lays C. , Freitas Lisiane S. , Souza Ranyere L. , Pereira Ernandes B. , Mendes Adriano A. , Pereira Matheus M. , Lima Álvaro S. , Soares Cleide M. F.
Published: June 2019

Alternative strategies are required to develop the optimized production of fatty acids using biocatalysis; molecular docking and response surface methodology are efficient tools to achieve this goal. In the present study, we demonstrate a novel and robust methodology for the sustainable production of fatty acids fromMoringa oleiferaLam oil using lipase‐catalyzed hydrolysis (without the presence of emulsifiers or buffer solutions). Seven commercial lipases fromCandida rugosa(CRL),Burkholderia cepacia(BCL),Thermomyces lanuginosus(TLL),Rhizopus niveus(RNL),Pseudomonas fluorescens(PFL),Mucor javanicus(MJL), and porcine pancreas (PPL) were used as biocatalysts. Initial screening showed that CRL had the highest hydrolytic activity (hydrolysis degree of 81%). Molecular docking analysis contributed to the experimental results, showing that CRL displays more stable binding free energy with oleic acid (C18:1), which is the fatty acid of highest concentration inMoringa oleiferaLam oil. To evaluate and optimize the hydrolysis process, response surface methodology (RSM) was used. The effect of temperature, mass ratio oil:water, and hydrolytic activity on enzymatic hydrolysis was evaluated by central composite design using RSM. Under the optimized conditions (temperature of 37 °C, mass ratio oil:water of 25%, and hydrolytic activity of 550 U goil−1), the maximum hydrolysis degree (100%) was achieved. The present study provides a robust method for the enzymatic hydrolysis of different oils for efficient and sustainable fatty acid production.
Exploring associations of maternal sleep during periconceptional period with congenital heart disease in offspring
Authors: Zhao Anda , Zhao Kena , Xia Yuanqing , Yin Yong , Zhu Jianzhen , Hong Haifa , Li Shenghui
Published: June 2019

Background

In general, the existing evidence points to a role for maternal sleep in pregnancy complications and fetal growth, however, little has been focused on birth defects. We aimed to explore the association between periconceptional poor sleep and the risk of congenital heart disease (CHD), and to examine if daytime napping could to some extent change the association.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted in Shanghai Children's Medical Center, in which, a total of 524 cases (262 simple CHD vs. 262 severe CHD), along with 262 controls.

Results

In the multivariable logistic analysis, poor sleep could increase the risk of both simple CHD (OR = 2.486, 95% CI = 1.619–3.818) and severe CHD (OR = 1.950, 95% CI = 1.269–2.997), while routine daytime nap could decrease risk of simple CHD (OR = 0.634, 95% CI = 0.435–0.923). In the stratified analysis, the concurrence with routine daytime nap could weaken the risk of simple CHD caused by poor sleep (OR = 3.183, 95% CI: 1.830–5.537 decreased to OR = 2.236, 95% CI: 1.200–4.165). The examinations were repeated in ventricular septal defect and tetralogy of Fallot, and the established associations can be verified. Moreover, all these findings were also similarly observed in both propensity‐score‐adjusted and propensity‐score‐matched analyses.

Conclusions

Poor maternal sleep around periconceptional period seems to be an independent risk factor for CHD. The concurrence with daytime nap could to some extent reduce the risk in simple CHD. The results individually and collectively put forward the importance of maternal sleep in embryonic heart development.
Medicinal plants in traumatic brain injury: Neuroprotective mechanisms revisited
Authors: Keshavarzi Zakieh , Shakeri Farzaneh , Barreto George E. , Bibak Bahram , Sathyapalan Thozhukat , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: June 2019

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the most prevalent health problem affecting all age groups, and leads to many secondary problems in other organs especially kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and heart function. In this review, the search terms were TBI, fluid percussion injury, cold injury, weight drop impact acceleration injury, lateral fluid percussion, cortical impact injury, and blast injury. Studies with Actaea racemosa, Artemisia annua, Aframomum melegueta, Carthamus tinctorius, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Crocus sativus, Cnidium monnieri, Curcuma longa, Gastrodia elata, Malva sylvestris, Da Chuanxiong Formula, Erigeron breviscapus, Panax ginseng, Salvia tomentosa, Satureja khuzistanica, Nigella sativa, Drynaria fortune, Dracaena cochinchinensis, Polygonum cuspidatum, Rosmarinus officinalis, Rheum tanguticum, Centella asiatica, and Curcuma zedoaria show a significant decrease in neuronal injury by different mechanisms such as increasing superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, suppressing nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB), interleukin 1 (IL‐1), glial fibrillary acidic protein, and IL‐6 expression. The aim of this study was to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of medicinal plants in central nervous system pathologies by reviewing the available literature.
Ganoderma spore lipid protects mouse bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and hematopoiesis from the cytotoxicity of the chemotherapeutic agent
Authors: Pan Yu , Zhao Andong , Zhong Zhiqiang , Pan Xiaohua , Cai Sa
Published: June 2019

Cancer chemotherapeutic agents are frequently toxic to bone marrow and impair bone marrow functions. It is unclear whether ganoderma spore lipid (GSL) can protect bone marrow cells from the cytotoxicity of chemotherapy. To investigate the protective effects of GSL on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and hematopoiesis, we examined the effects of GSL on MSCs in vitro and hematopoiesis in vivo after treatment with the chemotherapeutic agent cyclophosphamide. MSCs and peripheral blood cells were isolated and counted from the bone marrow of normal mice were pre‐treated with GSL before CTX treatment or co‐treated with GSL and CTX, followed by examining the changes in phenotype, morphology, proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation potentials. The results showed that GSL could reduce the CTX‐induced changes in the phenotype of MSCs and maintain the elongated fibroblast‐like morphology. MTT and annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) analyses found that GSL pre‐treatment and co‐treatment increased the proliferation and decreased the apoptosis in CTX‐treated MSCs. Furthermore, GSL improved the osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation potentials of CTX‐treated MSCs. In vivo, GSL treatment increased the number of peripheral blood cells including white blood cells (WBC) and platelets (PLT) in the CTX‐treated mice and enhanced the in vitro formation of hematopoietic lineage colonies (erythrocyte colony forming unit, CFU‐E; erythroid burst‐forming units, BFU‐E; and granulocyte macrophage colony‐forming units, CFU‐GM) from bone marrow cells in these mice. These findings suggest GSL could protect MSCs and hematopoiesis from the cytotoxicity of CTX and might become an effective adjuvant to attenuate side effects of chemotherapy during cancer treatment.
Scale‐down model qualification of ambr® 250 high‐throughput mini‐bioreactor system for two commercial‐scale mAb processes
Authors: Manahan Matthew , Nelson Michael , Cacciatore Jonathan J. , Weng Jessica , Xu Sen , Pollard Jennifer
Published: June 2019

Recent advances in high‐throughput (HTP) automated mini‐bioreactor systems have significantly improved development timelines for early‐stage biologic programs. Automated platforms such as the ambr® 250 have demonstrated the ability, using appropriate scale‐down approaches, to provide reliable estimates of process performance and product quality from bench to pilot scale, but data sets comparing to large‐scale commercial processes (>10,000 L) are limited. As development moves toward late stages, specifically process characterization (PC), a qualified scale‐down model (SDM) of the commercial process is a regulatory requirement as part of Biologics License Application (BLA)‐enabling activities. This work demonstrates the qualification of the ambr® 250 as a representative SDM for two monoclonal antibody (mAb) commercial processes at scales >10,000 L. Representative process performance and product quality associated with each mAb were achieved using appropriate scale‐down approaches, and special attention was paid to pCO2 to ensure consistent performance and product quality. Principal component analysis (PCA) and univariate equivalence testing were utilized in the qualification of the SDM, along with a statistical evaluation of process performance and product‐quality attributes for comparability. The ambr® 250 can predict these two commercial‐scale processes (at center‐point condition) for cell‐culture performance and product quality. The time savings and resource advantages to performing PC studies in a small‐scale HTP system improves the potential for the biopharmaceutical industry to get products to patients more quickly.
LncRNA‐LOC101928316 contributes to gastric cancer progression through regulating PI3K‐Akt‐mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Li Chengyun , Liang Geyu , Yang Sheng , Sui Jing , Wu Wenjuan , Xu Siyi , Ye Yancheng , Shen Bo , Zhang Xiaomei , Zhang Yan
Published: June 2019

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) has played the important function in regulation of various biological processes and in diagnostic value has been widely appreciated. In the present study, we have found that LOC101928316 was significantly downregulated in gastric cancer (GC) tissues specimen, GC cell lines, and associated with the GC patients tumor, node, and metastasis (TNM) stage and degree of differentiation (P ＜ 0.05). LOC101928316 overexpression can significantly inhibit SGC‐7901 cell migration, invasion, and proliferation (P＜0.05). LOC101928316 molecular mechanism investigates suggested that LOC101928316 can regulate PI3K‐Akt‐mTOR signaling pathway and change the GC development progression in vivo and in vitro. In vivo experiment also revealed that LOC101928316‐Overexpression can inhibit the tumorigenicity of GC cells in tumor‐burdened experimental nude mice (P ＜ 0.05). LOC101928316 may function as anti‐oncogene and also plays an important role in GC tumorigenesis. Collectively, our data provided the key role of LOC101928316 in the tumorigenesis of GC. In addition, the present study elucidates LOC101928316 potential regulatory network, which may help us to lead a better knowing of the pathogenesis of GC and probe the lncRNA as a novel biomarker to diagnosis and therapy for this malignant tumor.
Study of the mechanism by which dinaciclib induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest of lymphoma Raji cells through a CDK1‐involved pathway
Authors: Zhao Huayan , Li Shenglei , Wang Guannan , Zhao Wugan , Zhang Dandan , Wang Fang , Li Wencai , Sun Ling
Published: June 2019

Objective

This study aimed to identify and evaluate the mechanism by which apoptosis and cell cycle arrest were induced by dinaciclib in lymphoma Raji cells.

Methods

The colony formation assay was used to detect cell proliferation of Raji cells. Cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis were determined by flow cytometry and TUNEL assays, respectively. Protein expression related to the Raji cell state was evaluated by Western blot. The Raji/Dinaciclib drug‐resistant cell line was established, where the regulating functions of CDK1‐involved pathway were verified. In addition, the effect of dinaciclib in vivo was examined in orthotopically implanted tumors in nude mice.

Results

Cell apoptosis was induced, and DNA synthesis ability was decreased in a time‐dependent manner in dinaciclib‐treated lymphoma Raji cells. Furthermore, the cell cycle was found to be blocked in the G2/M Phase. Further study indicated that CDK1‐involved pathway played a key regulatory role in this process. It was revealed by cell transfection that the expression of cell cycle proteins was downregulated after treatment with dinaciclib through a CDK1‐involved pathway, which eventually led to apoptosis. Knockdown of CDK1 restored the sensitivity of the Raji/Dinaciclib cells to dinaciclib. Xenograft model of nude mice showed that dinaciclib treatment in vivo could effectively inhibit tumor growth, consistent with the experiment results mentioned before.

Conclusion

In this study, we clarified the mechanisms through which dinaciclib induces Raji cell apoptosis and blocks the cell cycle through a CDK1‐involved pathway, which supported that dinaciclib had potential values in the treatment of lymphoma.
Prognostic significance of GAD1 overexpression in patients with resected lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Tsuboi Mitsuhiro , Kondo Kazuya , Masuda Kiyoshi , Tange Shoichiro , Kajiura Koichiro , Kohmoto Tomohiro , Takizawa Hiromitsu , Imoto Issei , Tangoku Akira
Published: June 2019

Background and Objectives

In a previous genome‐wide screening, we identified hypermethylated CpG islands around glutamate decarboxylase 1 (GAD1) in lung adenocarcinoma (LADC). In this study, we aimed to investigate the methylation and expression status of GAD1 and its prognostic value in patients with LADC.

Methods

GAD1 methylation and mRNA expression status were analyzed using 33 tumorous and paired non‐tumorous LADC samples and publicly available datasets. The prognostic value of GAD1 overexpression was investigated using publicly available datasets of mRNA levels and 162 cases of LADC by immunohistochemistry.

Results

The methylation and mRNA expression levels of GAD1, each having a positive correlation, were significantly higher in LADC tumors than in paired non‐tumorous tissues. LADC patients with higher GAD1 mRNA expression showed significantly poorer prognosis for overall survival in publicly available datasets. Higher immunoreactivity of GAD1 was significantly associated with the pathological stage, pleural invasion, lymph vessel invasion, and poorer prognosis for cancer‐specific and disease‐free survival. Multivariate analysis revealed that GAD1 protein overexpression is an independent prognosticator for disease‐free survival.

Conclusions

GAD1 mRNA and protein expression levels were significant prognostic factors in LADC, suggesting that they might be useful biomarkers to stratify patients with worse clinical outcomes after resection.
Predictive factors for the benefit of triple‐drug transarterial chemoembolization for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: He MinKe , Li Qing , Shen JingXian , Tan GuoSheng , Li QiJiong , Lai JiaYing , Wei Wei , Zhang YaoJun , Zou RuHai , Chen MinShan , Guo RongPing , Shi Ming
Published: June 2019

Background

Compared with single‐drug TACE, our previous phase III study demonstrated that triple‐drug transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) prolonged overall survival (OS) in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this study was to find which patients can benefit from the triple drugs TACE compared with single‐drug TACE.

Methods

Patients in the triple‐drug TACE arm received sponge embolization and emulsions composed of 50 mg epirubicin, 50 mg lobaplatin, 6 mg mitomycin C, and lipiodol, while patients in the single‐drug TACE arm received sponge embolization and emulsions composed of 50 mg epirubicin and lipiodol. From July 2007 to November 2009, 244 patients (224 men and 20 women; age ranged from 21 to 75 years) from our phase III study formed the initial cohort. From January 2010 to June 2015, external validation cohort was composed of 449 patients (411 men and 38 women; age ranged from 18 to 75 years) from another institution. The validation cohort after propensity score matching (PSM) (n = 374) was analyzed. Cox proportional hazard model was used to evaluate the interaction term between treatments for each subgroup. This retrospective study was approved by the institutional review board at each center.

Results

No difference was observed in the baseline characteristic of three cohorts. This exploratory analysis showed that triple‐drug TACE brought a survival benefit in the initial cohort, validation cohort (before PSM), and validation cohort (after PSM) compared with single‐drug TACE. The outcomes of three cohorts all showed that a significantly greater OS triple‐drug chemotherapy benefit versus single‐drug chemotherapy was seen in patients with large tumors (larger than 10 cm) while no survival difference was seen in patients with small tumors (10 cm or smaller).

Conclusions

Triple‐drug TACE seems to benefit patients with HCC larger than 10 cm in particular compared with single‐drug TACE.
A conversation analysis of asking about disruptions in method of levels psychotherapy
Authors: Cannon Caitlyn , Meredith Joanne , Speer Susan , Mansell Warren
Published: June 2019

Background

Method of levels (MOL) is a cognitive therapy with an emerging evidence base. It is grounded in perceptual control theory, and its transdiagnostic nature means techniques are widely applicable and not diagnosis‐specific. This paper contributes to psychotherapy process research by investigating a key technique of MOL, asking about disruptions, and in doing so aims to explore how the technique works and aid the understanding of related techniques in other psychotherapies.

Method

Conversation analysis (CA) is applied to asking about disruptions in 12 real‐life therapeutic interactions.

Findings

Analyses explore how and when therapists ask about disruptions, with examples presented according to their degree of adherence to the MOL approach. The majority of identified instances project responses consistent with MOL aims, encouraging further talk, focused on the client's problem, and with a shift to metalevel commentary. Also presented are examples of therapist and client influence on disruptions.

Conclusion

The paper provides support for a number of MOL practices, with clinical implications and links to other psychotherapies highlighted.
Spectroscopic and Structural Characterization, Enzyme Inhibitions, and Antioxidant Effects of New Ru(II) and Ni(II) Complexes of Schiff Base
Authors: Buldurun Kenan , Turan Nevin , Aras Abdulmelik , Mantarcı Asim , Turkan Fikret , Bursal Ercan
Published: June 2019

The new complex compounds [RuLCl(p‐cymene)] ⋅ 3H2O and [NiL2(H2O)2] ⋅ 3H2O (L: 1‐{4‐[(2‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxybenzylidene)amino]phenyl}ethanone) were prepared and characterized using FT‐IR, 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR, mass spectroscopy, TGA, elemental analysis, X‐ray powder diffraction and magnetic moment techniques. Octahedral geometry for new Ni(II) and Ru(II) complexes was proposed. Thermal decomposition confirmed the existence of lattice and coordinated water molecule in the complexes. To determine the antioxidant properties of Schiff base ligand and its Ni(II), Ru(II) metal complexes, FRAP, CUPRAC, ABTS and DPPH methods of antioxidant assays were used. Moreover, enzyme inhibition of complexes was evaluated against carbonic anhydrase I and II isoenzymes (CA I and CA II) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). For CA I and CA II, the best inhibition enzymes, was the Ni(II) complex with 62.98±18.41, 86.17±23.62 Ki values, whereas this inhibition effect showed ligand with 24.53±2.66 Ki value for the AChE enzyme.