bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epoxidized and Acrylated Epoxidized Camelina Oils for Ultraviolet‐Curable Wood Coatings
Authors: Li Yonghui , Wang Donghai , Sun Xiuzhi S.
Published: September 2018

Camelina oil contains nearly 90% unsaturated fatty acids and can be modified into functional monomers and polymers for value‐added industrial applications. In this study, we synthesized epoxidized camelina oil (ECO) and acrylated epoxidized camelina oil (AECO) and evaluated their potential applications as ultraviolet (UV)‐curable clear films and wood coatings. ECO and AECO were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance. Curing kinetics, thermal, mechanical, and coating properties of the polymers were investigated. The peak curing time of ECO was 0.51 min and that of AECO was only 0.09 min under UV intensity of 50 mW cm−2. Polymerized AECO (pAECO) exhibited higher glass transition temperature, mechanical strength (storage modulus, Young's modulus, and tensile strength), crosslink density, and gloss value compared with polymerized ECO (pECO). Both pAECO and pECO coatings showed good pencil hardness (6H) and strong adhesion to wood substrates (5B, with 0% chipping off during crosscut tape adhesion test). Compared with corresponding soybean oil polymers, pAECO and pECO had better thermal and mechanical properties, respectively, attributed to their higher monomer functionalities. ECO and AECO are promising candidates for UV‐curable coating applications, which adds value to camelina oilseed feedstock.
Trends in treatment and survival of patients with nonresected, nonmetastatic pancreatic cancer: A population‐based study
Authors: van der Geest Lydia G. M. , van Eijck Casper H. J. , Groot Koerkamp Bas , Lemmens Valery E. P. P. , Busch Olivier R. , Vissers Pauline A. J. , Wilmink Johanna W. , Besselink Marc G. ,   the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Group
Published: September 2018

Background

Nonresected, nonmetastatic (NR‐M0) pancreatic cancer involves both locally advanced pancreatic cancer and patients who did not undergo resection due to poor health status or patient preference. This study investigates nationwide trends of characteristics, treatment, and survival of patients with NR‐M0 pancreatic cancer.

Methods

From the Netherlands Cancer Registry, all patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer between 2006 and 2014 were selected. Chemotherapy and overall survival (OS) of NR‐M0 patients were evaluated for 3‐year time periods and 2 age groups using chi‐square tests for trend and Cox proportional hazard regression analysis.

Results

Of 18 234 patients, 33% had NR‐M0 pancreatic cancer, which decreased over time (in consecutive 3‐year periods: 38%‐33%‐28%, P < 0.001). Of 5964 NR‐M0 patients, 52% was over 75 years of age, 16% received chemotherapy, and median OS was 5.1 months. Chemotherapy use increased over time in younger patients (<75 years: from 23 to 36%, P‐trend < 0.001, ≥75 years: 3% to 4%, P‐trend = 0.053). In multivariable survival analysis, elderly age, low SES, nonconfirmed cancer, stage II‐III disease, and earlier years of diagnosis were independently associated with a worse OS. Age of patients who received chemotherapy increased over time (median 62‐66 years) and median OS was 10.4 months without significant differences between time periods (P = 0.177) or age groups (P = 0.207).

Conclusions

Overall survival of NR‐M0 pancreatic cancer remains poor which is partly related to advanced age of many patients. Despite an increase, chemotherapy is infrequently used. Future research should investigate to what extent the more widespread use of chemotherapy could improve survival in relation to age‐related morbidity.
TGF‐β‐mediated exosomal lnc‐MMP2‐2 regulates migration and invasion of lung cancer cells to the vasculature by promoting MMP2 expression
Authors: Wu Dong‐ming , Deng Shi‐hua , Liu Teng , Han Rong , Zhang Ting , Xu Ying
Published: September 2018

Previous studies indicated that transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β‐mediated exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate the migration and invasion of lung cancer cells; however, whether and how TGF‐β‐mediated exosomal long noncoding (lnc) RNAs regulate migration and invasion of lung cancer cells remains unclear. Here, coculture experiments showed that TGF‐β pretreatment increased the migration and invasion potential of lung cancer cells and TGF‐β pretreated A549 cells increases vascular permeability. Furthermore, we found that TGF‐β‐mediated exosomes, as carriers of intercellular communication, regulated lung cancer invasion, and vascular permeability. Transcriptional analysis also revealed that lnc‐MMP2‐2 was highly enriched in TGF‐β‐mediated exosomes and might function by increasing the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2 through its enhancer activity, with ectopic expression and silencing of lnc‐MMP2‐2 affecting lung cancer invasion and vascular permeability. Additionally, lnc‐MMP2‐2 and MMP2 expression was assessed semiquantitatively, and tissue‐specific correlations between lnc‐MMP2‐2 and MMP2 expression were evaluated. These results suggested that exosomal lnc‐MMP2‐2 might regulate the migration and invasion of lung cancer cells into the vasculature by promoting MMP2 expression, suggesting this lncRNA as a novel therapeutic target and predictive marker of tumor metastasis in lung cancer.
2,3‐Dihydrofurans as Potential Cytotoxic and Antibacterial Agents: Tandem Knoevenagel−Michael Cyclization for the Synthesis of 2,3‐Dihydrofurans by Using α‐Tosyloxy Ketone Precursors
Authors: Kashanna Jajula , Kumar Rathod Aravind , Kishore Ravada , Kumar Duddukuri Nandan , Kumar Alleni Suman
Published: September 2018

Novel 2,3‐dihydrofuran derivatives were synthesized through a tandem Knoevenagel−Michael cyclization in good yield by reacting α‐tosyloxy ketone, 5,5‐dimethyl‐1,3‐cyclohexanedione, and various aldehydes in the presence of phthalazine in acetonitrile. These compounds were subjected to in vitro antibacterial screening against eight micro‐organisms by using diffusion method and also in vitro cytotoxicity screening against four human cancerous cell lines by applying MTT assay. Some of the compounds showed impressive activities.
Reversible Dehydrogenation and Hydrogenation of N‐Heterocycles Catalyzed by Bimetallic Nanoparticles Encapsulated in MIL‐100(Fe)
Authors: Zhang Jia‐Wei , Li Dan‐Dan , Lu Guo‐Ping , Deng Tao , Cai Chun
Published: September 2018

Pd−Ni bimetallic nanoparticles (BMNPs) encapsulated in MIL‐100(Fe) (Pd‐Ni@MIL‐100(Fe) was fabricated and employed as an efficient catalyst for the reversible dehydrogenation/hydrogenation of N‐Heterocycles derivatives in water under mild conditions. Excellent catalytic performance for both reactions endows Pd‐Ni@MIL‐100(Fe) great potential value in organic chemistry. Alloying Pd with Ni can enhance the catalytic performance due to the bimetallic synergy. Both Lewis acidity and ordered mesoporous structure of MIL‐100(Fe) are beneficial to the performance of the catalyst owing to its stabilization of BMNPs, reduction of the electron density of Pd atoms and enhancement of substrates adsorption capacity.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution: Issues and Implications for Career Research and Practice
Authors: Hirschi Andreas
Published: September 2018

The accelerating digitization and automation of work, known as the 4th industrial revolution, will have an enormous impact on individuals’ career experiences. Yet, the academic literature in vocational psychology and career research has been remarkably silent on this trend so far. This article summarizes some of the most important issues of the 4th industrial revolution as they pertain to career development. The author then critically reviews how current models and frameworks of career development are suitable for addressing these emerging issues. Opportunities for future career development research and practice are outlined.
Breadth of Vocational Interests: The Role of Career Adaptability and Future Orientation
Authors: Ginevra Maria Cristina , Annovazzi Chiara , Santilli Sara , Di Maggio Ilaria , Camussi Elisabetta
Published: September 2018

The authors examined the relationship between career adaptability, future orientation, and vocational interests. Specifically, they tested the role of career adaptability and future orientation in promoting a broader range of vocational interests, based on the principle that experiencing more interests can be useful in giving one's best in multiple occupations and in planning a broad range of career goals. A total of 762 Italian adolescents (383 males, 379 females) participated in the study. Results highlight the mediating role of future orientation in the relationship between 4 career adaptability resources and breadth of vocational interests. These results underscore that specific interventions in career adaptability and future orientation may foster a broader range of vocational interests, providing more opportunity for adolescents to respond to the demands of the current job market.
Anodic Degradation of Lignin at Active Transition Metal‐based Alloys and Performance‐enhanced Anodes
Authors: Zirbes Michael , Schmitt Dominik , Beiser Nicole , Pitton Dominik , Hoffmann Thorsten , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: September 2018

Electrochemical oxidative degradation is one of the most promising methods for generation of phenolic fine chemicals from the renewable feedstock lignin. High selectivity, no reagent waste, as well as cost efficiency are major advantages of this particular process. Application of Ni‐ and Co‐based anode materials led to the best results in respect to product yield and selectivity. Interestingly, repeated use of Ni foam electrodes for electrochemical oxidative degradation resulted in significantly increased yields of vanillin, indicating a modification of the electrode surface. In particular, activation of the electrodes by electrochemical treatment of black liquor enabled an activation which further increased the electrocatalytic activity as well as the yield of the aroma chemical vanillin up to more than 100 % compared to non‐activated Ni foam electrodes. Additionally, this activated electrode surface was analyzed via flowing atmospheric pressure afterglow surface desorption mass spectrometry (FAPA‐MS). The measurement revealed diaminotoluene as a major compound in this adsorption layer, which indicates that this compound is partly responsible for the activation process. Most likely, electrochemical induced deposition of such an organic surface layer enhances the lipophilicity of the electrode surface and increases the accessibility of relevant structural features of lignin particles to the anodic surface, resulting in a higher yield of the desired degradation product vanillin.
Solid‐State NMR Spectroscopy: A Powerful Technique to Directly Study Small Gas Molecules Adsorbed in Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Wong Y. T. Angel , Martins Vinicius , Lucier Bryan E. G. , Huang Yining
Published: September 2018

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have shown great potential in gas separation and storage, and the design of MOFs for these purposes is an on‐going field of research. Solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (SSNMR) spectroscopy is a valuable technique for characterizing these functional materials. It can provide a wide range of structural and motional insights that are complementary to and/or difficult to access with alternative methods. In this Concept article, the recent advances made in SSNMR investigations of small gas molecules (i.e., carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrogen gas and light hydrocarbons) adsorbed in MOFs are discussed. These studies demonstrate the breadth of information that can be obtained by SSNMR spectroscopy, such as the number and location of guest adsorption sites, host–guest binding strengths and guest mobility. The knowledge acquired from these experiments yields a powerful tool for progress in MOF development.
A Unified Approach to Customized Chiral Carbon‐Bridged ansa‐Metallocenes
Authors: Wiesler Stefan , Bau Michael A. , Younas Sara L. , Luu Hieu‐Trinh , Kratzert Daniel , Streuff Jan
Published: September 2018

Chiral ansa‐metallocenes are privileged catalysts for a range of stereoselective transformations. Their synthesis, however, has remained a tremendous challenge, which has prevented a broad and systematic exploration for applications in synthesis and catalysis. A modular approach to such ansa‐metallocenes that enables a facile modification of the ring substitution and the ligand bridge, as well as the introduction of various core metals, is described. The complexes were formed with good rac‐selectivity and could be isolated with high purity. The strength of the approach was demonstrated by the synthesis of several new and previously known complexes, including a unique helical chiral ansa‐metallocene. Using a chiral ligand, a moderate central‐to‐planar chirality transfer was observed.
The Curtius Rearrangement: Applications in Modern Drug Discovery and Medicinal Chemistry
Authors: Ghosh Arun K. , Brindisi Margherita , Sarkar Anindya
Published: September 2018

The Curtius rearrangement is the thermal decomposition of an acyl azide derived from carboxylic acid to produce an isocyanate as the initial product. The isocyanate can undergo further reactions to provide amines and their derivatives. Due to its tolerance for a large variety of functional groups and complete retention of stereochemistry during rearrangement, the Curtius rearrangement has been used in the synthesis of a wide variety of medicinal agents with amines and amine‐derived functional groups such as ureas and urethanes. The current review outlines various applications of the Curtius rearrangement in drug discovery and medicinal chemistry. In particular, the review highlights some widely used rearrangement methods, syntheses of some key agents for popular drug targets and FDA‐approved drugs. In addition, the review highlights applications of the Curtius rearrangement in continuous‐flow protocols for the scale‐up of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
The use of restorative practices to reduce prison gang violence: Lessons on transforming cultures of violence
Authors: Nowotny Jordan J. , Carrara Maristela
Published: September 2018

In 2016, one of the largest and most violent prisons in Brazil trained staff to use restorative circles to help mediate gang‐related conflicts. To better understand how restorative practices are envisioned and being implemented in this setting, and to evaluate the likelihood that this project continues, semistructured interviews were conducted with prisoners and institutional staff. We argue that, although the initial levels of violence are reportedly lower, understandings of restorative philosophies are filtered through a narrow security rationale that limits institutional and cultural change.
Interactions of phenethylamine‐derived psychoactive substances of the 2C‐series with human monoamine oxidases
Authors: Wagmann Lea , Brandt Simon D. , Stratford Alexander , Maurer Hans H. , Meyer Markus R.
Published: September 2018

Psychoactive substances of the 2C‐series (2Cs) are phenethylamine‐derived designer drugs that can induce psychostimulant and hallucinogenic effects. Chemically, the classic 2Cs contain two methoxy groups in positions 2 and 5 of the phenyl ring, whereas substances of the so‐called FLY series contain rigidified methoxy groups integrated in a 2,3,6,7‐tetrahydrobenzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b’]difuran core. One of the pharmacological features that has not been investigated in detail is the inhibition of monoamine oxidase (MAO). Inhibition of this enzyme can cause elevated monoamine levels that have been associated with adverse events such as agitation, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, hypertension, or seizures. The aim of this study was to extend the knowledge surrounding the potential of MAO inhibition for 17 test drugs, which consisted of 12 2Cs (2C‐B, 2C‐D, 2C‐E, 2C‐H, 2C‐I, 2C‐N, 2C‐P, 2C‐T‐2, 2C‐T‐7, 2C‐T‐21, bk‐2C‐B, and bk‐2C‐I) and five FLY analogs (2C‐B‐FLY, 2C‐E‐FLY, 2C‐EF‐FLY, 2C‐I‐FLY, and 2C‐T‐7‐FLY). The extent of MAO inhibition was assessed using an established in vitro procedure based on heterologously expressed enzymes and analysis by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography–high resolution tandem mass spectrometry. Thirteen test drugs showed inhibition potential for MAO‐A and 11 showed inhibition of MAO‐B. In cases where MAO‐A IC50 values were determined, values ranged from 10 to 125 μM (7 drugs) and from 1.7 to 180 μM for MAO‐B (9 drugs). In the absence of detailed clinical information on most test drugs, it is concluded that a pharmacological contribution of MAO inhibition cannot be excluded and that further studies are warranted.
A rapid non‐target screening method for determining prohibited substances in human urine using liquid chromatography/high‐resolution tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Han Boyoung , Min Hophil , Jeon Mijin , Kang Byeori , Son Junghyun
Published: September 2018

Target analysis using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry is applied for rapidly detecting various prohibited doping substances. Frequent modification is required as additional substances are prohibited. We developed and validated a non‐target screening method requiring no further modification because it analyzes the full spectrum of data in fixed m/z ranges. Urine samples were extracted using solid‐phase extraction and analyzed by employing a method that combines full scan and variable data independent acquisition using high‐resolution mass spectrometry; and all prohibited substances in the urine samples were successfully detected using our screening method. The method was validated in terms of specificity (no interferences), recoveries (29%–131%), matrix effects (35%–237%), limites of detection (0.0002–100 ng/mL), and intra‐ and inter‐day precisions (coefficients of variation lower than 25%). The applicability of this method to doping tests was evaluated by analyzing 14 urine samples. As a result, the non‐target screening method is efficient for conducting anti‐doping tests because it can be applied without any further modification to prohibited drugs as well as to unknown targets that can be prohibited in the future.
A spatially explicit hierarchical model to characterize population viability
Authors: Campbell Steven P. , Zylstra Erin R. , Darst Catherine R. , Averill‐Murray Roy C. , Steidl Robert J.
Published: September 2018

Many of the processes that govern the viability of animal populations vary spatially, yet population viability analyses (PVAs) that account explicitly for spatial variation are rare. We develop a PVA model that incorporates autocorrelation into the analysis of local demographic information to produce spatially explicit estimates of demography and viability at relatively fine spatial scales across a large spatial extent. We use a hierarchical, spatial, autoregressive model for capture–recapture data from multiple locations to obtain spatially explicit estimates of adult survival (ϕad), juvenile survival (ϕjuv), and juvenile‐to‐adult transition rates (ψ), and a spatial autoregressive model for recruitment data from multiple locations to obtain spatially explicit estimates of recruitment (R). We combine local estimates of demographic rates in stage‐structured population models to estimate the rate of population change (λ), then use estimates of λ (and its uncertainty) to forecast changes in local abundance and produce spatially explicit estimates of viability (probability of extirpation, Pex). We apply the model to demographic data for the Sonoran desert tortoise (Gopherus morafkai) collected across its geographic range in Arizona. There was modest spatial variation in (0.94–1.03), which reflected spatial variation in (0.85–0.95), (0.70–0.89), and (0.07–0.13). Recruitment data were too sparse for spatially explicit estimates; therefore, we used a range‐wide estimate ( = 0.32 1‐yr‐old females per female per year). Spatial patterns in demographic rates were complex, but , , and tended to be lower and higher in the northwestern portion of the range. Spatial patterns in Pex varied with local abundance. For local abundances >500, Pex was near zero (<0.05) across most of the range after 100 yr; as abundances decreased, however, Pex approached one in the northwestern portion of the range and remained low elsewhere. When local abundances were <50, western and southern populations were vulnerable (Pex > 0.25). This approach to PVA offers the potential to reveal spatial patterns in demography and viability that can inform conservation and management at multiple spatial scales, provide insight into scale‐related investigations in population ecology, and improve basic ecological knowledge of landscape‐level phenomena.
A pilot open trial of UNITE‐BED: A couple‐based intervention for binge‐eating disorder
Authors: Runfola Cristin D. , Kirby Jennifer S. , Baucom Donald H. , Fischer Melanie S. , Baucom Brian R. W. , Matherne Camden E. , Pentel Kimberly Z. , Bulik Cynthia M.
Published: September 2018

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a couple‐based intervention for binge‐eating disorder (BED), called UNiting couples In the Treatment of Eating disorders‐BED edition (UNITE‐BED).

Method

In an open pilot trial, 11 couples in which one or both adult partners had a diagnosis of DSM‐5 threshold or sub‐threshold BED participated in 22 weekly sessions of UNITE‐BED. Patients also received individual treatment, outside of the context of the trial. Couples completed measures on treatment satisfaction, eating disorder symptom severity, depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, and relational functioning at post‐treatment and 3‐month follow‐up. Statistical analyses were conducted to identify change over the course of treatment.

Results

UNITE was feasible and acceptable to the majority of couples (9% dropout; high satisfaction ratings). Objective binge abstinence was 81.8% and subjective binge abstinence was 45.5% by post‐treatment. Patient binge‐eating symptomatology reduced over the course of treatment with results maintained at follow up. Patients' depression symptoms decreased and patients' emotion regulation improved at both time points.

Discussion

Including partners in treatment for BED may be beneficial. Results support further evaluation of the efficacy of couple‐based interventions for BED in larger randomized‐controlled trials.
Effectiveness of body image directed interventions in patients with anorexia nervosa: A systematic review
Authors: Ziser Katrin , Mölbert Simone Claire , Stuber Felicitas , Giel Katrin Elisabeth , Zipfel Stephan , Junne Florian
Published: September 2018

Objective

Body image (BI) disturbances are one of the core symptoms of anorexia nervosa (AN). They have been shown to be associated with depression and anxiety at all treatment stages and are a reliable predictor of relapse. Considering the importance for the course of AN, direct targeting of BI disturbances is still underemphasized in the treatment of patients with AN.

Method

In this systematic review, conducted according to the PRISMA statement, the evidence on BI directed interventions in AN is synthesized.

Results

N = 11 studies investigating mirror exposure, video confrontation, virtual reality body exposure and treatment programs were analyzed. No systematic risk of bias within or across studies could be identified. The included studies show that BI directed interventions may be efficacious in improving BI related outcomes. However, the evidence regarding an additional effect of BI interventions added to established treatments for patients with AN, is unclear.

Discussion

The evidence base on BI interventions for patients with AN is scarce. It is not possible to identify types of BI intervention that can be seen as the most promising. Advantages of new technologies such as virtual reality or a combination of BI interventions with techniques for stress reduction are discussed.
OpenMICE: an open spatial and temporal data set of small mammals in south‐central Italy based on owl pellet data
Authors: Paniccia Chiara , Di Febbraro Mirko , Delucchi Luca , Oliveto Rocco , Marchetti Marco , Loy Anna
Published: September 2018

The use of database technologies as a tool for implementing data for quantitative ecological studies and biodiversity conservation planning has recently attracted the attention of the biological community. Despite the fact that the number of biodiversity data sets is quickly rising, online databases of small mammals are still scarce, especially for Mediterranean ecosystems. We implemented the first standardized and accessible georeferenced European database of small mammal occurrences, abundances, and functional traits. Data derived from owl pellets was obtained from different sources, including original field surveys, publications, gray literature, existing databases, and museum collections. The OpenMICE database covers the years 1972 to 2017 and includes nearly 50,000 individuals from 23 species (13 Rodentia and 10 Eulipotyphla) at 190 sites in south‐central Italy. Our specific goals in compiling this data set were as follows: (1) to make data that is usually accessible to a restricted audience widely available; (2) to identify the gaps in knowledge about small mammal communities and guide future sampling and conservation efforts; and (3) to gain a first insight into small mammal diversity and abundance in the study area. The potential applications of our spatial relational database are many, from individual‐based to community‐based models as potential indicators of environmental changes at different geographical scales. Given the long‐term support for data storage, the OpenMICE database could be further expanded to include other geographical contexts and implemented with new information and traits. We would appreciate that researchers cite this paper if using all or part of the data set. We also request that researchers and teachers inform us of how they are using the data. We intend to keep it up to date as novel studies become available (see Data Availability).
Dynamics of partially obstructed breakup of bubbles in microfluidic Y‐junctions
Authors: Ziyi Xu , Taotao Fu , Chunying Zhu , Shaokun Jiang , Youguang Ma , Kai Wang , Guangsheng Luo
Published: September 2018

For revealing the dynamics of partially obstructed breakup of bubbles in microfluidic Y‐junctions, the combination of dimensionless power‐law and geometric model was applied to study the effects of capillary number, bubble length, and channel angle on the bubble rupture process. In the squeezing process, the gas‐liquid interface curve follows the parabolic model. For the evolution of the bubble neck during breakup, the increase of the bubble length, the channel angle, and the capillary number leads to the decrease of the focus distance α. The chord m increases with the increase of the capillary number and the decrease of the bubble length, and it would reach the maximum value when the channel angle is 90°. In the fast pinch‐off stage during bubble breakup, the bubble's neck curve no longer conforms to the parabolic model so the focus and chord no longer exist. For the evolution of the bubble head during breakup, the value of γ approaches 1 with the increase of the capillary number and the bubble length, and with the close of the channel angle to 90°. It is found that the quadrilateral model can be applied for the partially obstructed rupture of bubbles in the symmetrical microfluidic Y‐junction.
Automated co‐registration and calibration in SfM photogrammetry for landslide change detection
Authors: Peppa Maria V. , Mills Jon P. , Moore Phil , Miller Pauline E. , Chambers Jonathan E.
Published: September 2018

Landslides represent hazardous phenomena, often with significant implications. Monitoring landslides with time‐series surface observations can indicate surface failure. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) employing compact digital cameras, in conjunction with structure‐from‐motion (SfM) and multi‐view stereo (MVS) image processing approaches, have become commonplace in the geoscience research community. These methods offer relatively low‐cost, flexible solutions for many geomorphological monitoring applications. However, conventionally ground control points (GCPs) are required for registration purposes, the provision of which is often expensive, difficult or even impracticable in hazardous and inaccessible terrain.

In an attempt to overcome the reliance on GCPs, this paper reports research that has developed a morphology‐based strategy to co‐register multi‐temporal UAV‐derived products. It applies the attribute of curvature in combination with the scale‐invariant feature transform algorithm, to generate time‐invariant curvature features, which serve as pseudo‐GCPs. Openness, a surface morphological digital elevation model derivative, is applied to identify relatively stable ground regions from which pseudo‐GCPs are selected. A sensitivity threshold quantifies the minimum detectable change alongside unresolved biases and misalignment errors. The approach is evaluated at two study sites in the UK, first at Sandford with artificially induced surface change, and second at an active landslide at Hollin Hill, with multi‐epoch SfM‐MVS products derived from a consumer‐grade UAV. Elevation changes and annual displacement rates at dm‐level are estimated, with optimal results achieved over winter periods. The morphology‐based co‐registration strategy resulted in relative error ratios (i.e. mean error divided by average flying height) in the range 1:800–2500, comparable with those reported by similar studies conducted with UAVs augmented with real time kinematic (RTK)‐Global Navigation Satellite Systems. Analysis demonstrates the potential of the morphology‐based strategy for a semi‐automatic, and practical co‐registration approach to quantify surface motion. This can ultimately complement geotechnical and geophysical investigations and support the understanding of landslide behaviour, model prediction and construction of measures for mitigating risks. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of immunoglobulin M reduction via therapeutic dose of simple plasma exchange and double filtration plasmapheresis using membrane separation in patients with hyperviscosity syndrome caused by Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia
Authors: Miyamoto Yoshihisa , Hamasaki Yoshifumi , Matsumoto Akihiko , Doi Kent , Noiri Eisei , Nangaku Masaomi
Published: September 2018

Background: Plasma exchange (PE) and double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) are known as effective treatment options for hyperviscosity syndrome (HVS) caused by Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Nonetheless, few data are available for the relation between the prescribed dose of apheresis and the reduction rate of target molecule immunoglobulin M (IgM), especially in the modality using membrane separation.

Objectives: This study was conducted to establish a model to predict the IgM reduction rate by the dose of simple PE and DFPP using membrane separation in patients with HVS and to compare the consumption of albumin between PE and DFPP.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data of total 17 sessions of PE and DFPP with various therapeutic doses performed for five patients at our institution. We used linear regression analysis to examine the relation between the ratio of processed plasma volume to estimated circulating plasma volume (X) and the reduction rate of IgM (Y).

Results: Regression analysis revealed that Y is expressed by X as the following equation: Y = 0.35X + 0.095. The total usage of albumin for replacement fluid was lower in DFPP than in PE (21.5 g vs 150 g per session), although the treatment efficacies of both modalities are similar.

Conclusion: The dose of PE and DFPP using membrane separation can predict IgM reduction rate in the HVS patients. Predicted IgM reduction rates based on our model are lower than those calculated using a known theoretical model. In terms of the amount of use of albumin, DFPP is preferred to PE.
Long noncoding RNA opa‐interacting protein 5 antisense transcript 1 promotes proliferation and invasion through elevating integrin α6 expression by sponging miR‐143‐3p in cervical cancer
Authors: Yang Jing , Jiang Bo , Hai Jing , Duan Shufeng , Dong Xuecai , Chen Caixia
Published: September 2018

An increasing number of studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in cervical cancer (CC) progression. However, the roles and underlying mechanisms of lncRNA opa‐interacting protein 5 antisense transcript 1 (OIP5‐AS1) involved in the CC remain unclear. In the current study, we found that lncRNA OIP5‐AS1 was upregulated in CC tissues and cell lines. High OIP5‐AS1 expression was significantly correlated with advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage, lymph node metastasis, and poor overall survival of patients with CC. Using in vitro function assays, we showed that OIP5‐AS1 suppression significantly decreased the proliferation, colony formation, and invasion ability of CC cells. Moreover, we revealed that OIP5‐AS1 could act as a competing endogenous RNA of miR‐143‐3p to regulate the ITGA6 expression. Rescue assays showed that miR‐143‐3p inhibitors or ITGA6 overexpression could reverse the inhibitory effects of OIP5‐AS1 suppression on the proliferation and invasion in CC cells. In addition, OIP5‐AS1 suppression reduced tumor growth in vivo. In conclusion, we demonstrated that OIP5‐AS1 promoted proliferation and invasion of CC cells via increasing the ITGA6 expression by sponging miR‐143‐3p, which might be an effective therapeutic target for the treatment of patients with CC.
Allyl rhodanine azo dye derivatives: Potential antimicrobials target d‐alanyl carrier protein ligase and nucleoside diphosphate kinase
Authors: Abou‐Dobara Mohamed I. , Omar Noha F. , Diab Mostafa A. , El‐Sonbati Adel Z. , Morgan Shaimaa M. , El‐Mogazy Mohammed A.
Published: September 2018

3‐Allyl‐5‐(4‐arylazo)‐2‐thioxothiazolidine‐4‐one (HLn) ligands (where n = 1 to 3) were hypothesized to have antimicrobial activities mediated through inhibition of new antimicrobial targets. The ligands (HLn) were synthesized and characterized by infrared (IR) and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectra. The ligands (HLn) were in silico screened to their potential inhibition to models of d‐alanyl carrier protein ligase (DltA) (from Bacillus cereus, PDB code 3FCE) and nucleoside diphosphate kinase (NDK) (from Staphylococcus aureus; PDB code 3Q8U). HL3 ligand has the best energy and mode of binding to both NDK and DltA, even though its binding to DltA was stronger than that to NDK. In antimicrobial activity of HL3 ligand, morphological and cytological changes in HL3‐treated bacteria agreed with the in silico results. The HL3 ligand showed significant antimicrobial activity against B. cereus, S. aureus, and Fusarium oxysporium. The HL3‐treated bacterial cells appeared malformed and incompletely separated. Its cell walls appeared electron‐lucent and ruptured. They contained more mesosomes than normal cells. It was found that the HL3 ligand represented as a bactericide against B. cereus and S. aureusby blocking target DltA, and may target NDK.
Quercetin‐mediated regulation of signal transduction cascades and microRNAs: Natural weapon against cancer
Authors: Farooqi Ammad Ahmad , Jabeen Saima , Attar Rukset , Yaylim Ilhan , Xu Baojun
Published: September 2018

Recent technological and analytical breakthroughs in genomics and proteomics have deepened our understanding related to the multifaceted nature of cancer. Because of therapeutically challenging nature of cancer, there has been a renewed interest in phytochemistry, and much attention is currently being given to the identification of signaling pathway inhibitors. Data obtained through high‐throughput technologies has provided a broader landscape of wiring maps of complex oncogenic signaling networks, thus revealing novel therapeutic opportunities. Increasingly, it is being realized that although our knowledge related to physiological and pathophysiological roles of signal transduction cascades has evolved rapidly, the clinical development of signaling pathway inhibitors has been challenging. Quercetin has attracted considerable attention because of its amazingly high pharmacological value. Research over decades has sequentially shown that quercetin effectively inhibited cancer development and progression. In this review, we have attempted to set the spotlight on the regulation of different cell signaling pathways by quercetin. We partition this multicomponent review into how quercetin effectively regulates the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway, Janus kinase‐signal transducer and activator of transcription pathway, and vascular endothelial growth factor/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor signaling cascade in different types of cancers. We also provide an overview of the regulation of NOTCH and SHH pathways by quercetin. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have also emerged as versatile regulators of cancer, and contemporary studies have shed light on the ability of quercetin to control different miRNAs in various cancers. We have scattered information related to NOTCH and SHH pathways, and future studies must converge on the investigation of these pathways to see how quercetin modulates the signaling machinery of these pathways.
Chemerin induces lipolysis through ERK1/2 pathway in intramuscular mature adipocytes of dairy bull calves
Authors: Fu Yuan‐Yuan , Hu Bian‐Hong , Chen Kun‐Lin , Li Hui‐Xia
Published: September 2018

The adipokine Chemerin has been reported to regulate differentiation and metabolism of adipocytes, but the mechanism underlying lipolysis is still largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to explore whether ERK1/2 pathway is involved in regulating Chemerin during bovine intramuscular mature adipocyte lipolysis. Intramuscular mature adipocytes of dairy bull calves were cultured in vitro and were treated with Chemerin or U0126, which is an inhibitor of ERK1/2 pathway. The results showed that TG content in cells was significantly decreased, glycerol and free fatty acid were significantly increased in cell culture media, and the expression of phosphorylated ERK1/2 in cells was increased in Chemerin‐treated group, suggested that ERK1/2 pathway was involved in regulation of lipolysis by Chemerin. In addition, the expression of lipolytic‐related critical factors ATGL, HSL, LPL, PPARα, UCP3, and CPT1 were upregulated, but the expression of adipogenic key factors, including PPARγ and C/EBPα were downregulated by Chemerin. Interestingly, all the effects of Chemerin on genes expression in intramuscular mature adipocytes or fat tissue were inhibited by U0126, showed that the function of Chemerin to promote adipose decomposition will be significantly weakened if the ERK1/2 pathway is suppressed, and confirmed that ERK1/2 pathway is involved in mediate Chemerin‐enhanced lipolysis. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that Chemerin induce intramuscular mature adipocytes lipolysis through activation of the ERK1/2 pathway. Our research at least provide partial mechanisms of Chemerin on lipolysis and deposition of intramuscular fat tissue of dairy bull calves.
MicroRNA‐424 regulates epithelial‐mesenchymal transition of endometrial carcinoma by directly targeting insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor
Authors: Shu Shanrong , Liu Xiaoping , Xu Ming , Gao Xuesong , Fan Jin , Liu Huan , Li Ruiman
Published: September 2018

Although numerous miRNAs are reported to contribute to the carcinogenesis of malignant tumor, the specific role of miR‐424 in endometrial carcinoma is seldom reported. To explore the effect of miR‐424 on epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and its underlying mechanism, we detected miR‐424 expression in endometrial carcinoma tissue and cells. We found that miR‐424 was significantly downregulated in endometrial carcinoma tissues and cells, especially in HEC‐1B cells. To perform the functional analysis, we transfected HEC‐1B with miR‐424‐mi, miR‐424‐inh, mi‐control, and inh‐control, respectively. We found that overexpression of miR‐424 significantly decreases cell proliferation and migration, accompanied with the increased E‐cadherin/Vimentin expression and the transition of mesenchymal to epithelial cell phenotype. We identified that insulin‐like growth factor‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R) was a potential target of miR‐424 by computational analysis followed by luciferase reporter assays. Of note, we found that the downregulation of miR‐424 in HEC‐1B cells enhanced endogenous IGF‐1R expression. Further mechanistic analysis revealed that forced expression of IGF‐1R in miR‐424‐mim transfected cells remedied the weakened migration resulting from overexpression of IGF‐1R. Taken together, the results of the current study demonstrated that miR‐424 was a tumor suppressor for endometrial carcinoma and a favorable factor against tumor progression through targeting IGF‐1R, thus providing a target for the treatment of endometrial carcinoma.
Role of green tea catechins in prevention of age‐related cognitive decline: Pharmacological targets and clinical perspective
Authors: Farzaei Mohammad Hosein , Bahramsoltani Roodabeh , Abbasabadi Zahra , Braidy Nady , Nabavi Seyed Mohammad
Published: September 2018

Over the past decade, a wide range of scientific investigations have been performed to reveal neuropathological aspects of cognitive disorders; however, only limited therapeutic approaches currently exist. The failures of conventional therapeutic options as well as the predicted dramatic rise in the prevalence of cognitive decline in the coming future show the necessity for novel therapeutic agents. Recently, a wide range of research has focused on pharmacological activities of green tea catechins worldwide. Current investigations have clarified mechanistic effects of the catechins in inflammatory cascades, oxidative damages, different cellular transcription as well as transduction pathway in various body systems. It has been demonstrated that green tea polyphenols prevent age‐related neurodegeneration through improvement of endogenous antioxidant defense mechanisms, modulation of neural growth factors, attenuation of neuroinflammatory pathway, and regulation of apoptosis. The catechins exhibited beneficial effects in cellular and animal models of neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, MS, and Parkinson’s disease. The present review discusses the current pharmacological targets, which can be involved in the treatment of cognitive decline and addresses the action of catechin derivatives elicited from green tea on the multiple neural targets.
Altered T‐cell subpopulations in recurrent pregnancy loss patients with cellular immune abnormalities
Authors: Abdolmohammadi Vahid Samaneh , Ghaebi Mahnaz , Ahmadi Majid , Nouri Mohammad , Danaei Shahla , Aghebati‐Maleki Leili , Mousavi Ardehaie Reza , Yousefi Bahman , Hakimi Parvin , Hojjat‐Farsangi Mohammad , Rikhtegar Reza , Yousefi Mehdi
Published: September 2018

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a multifactorial disorder of women in reproductive age, which in some cases is caused by immunologic abnormalities. In this study, we aimed to evaluate cellular and molecular components of the immune system like different T‐cell subsets and their regulating microRNAs (miRNAs) in RPL women and control group. Fifty RPL and 50 healthy subjects were recruited. Subsets of T cells, including regulatory T (Treg) cells, helper T (Th) 17 cells, exhausted T cells, exhausted Treg cells were evaluated by flow cytometry. Transcription factors of T cells and related miRNA profile were quantified using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Assessment showed that Treg and exhausted T cells, were decreased in RPL patients (p = 0.009 and 0.02, respectively), while an increase was observed in Th17 and exhausted Treg frequency (
p = 0.013 and 0.0037, respectively). Messenger RNA expression level of
T‐bet and
IRF4 was upregulated in RPL patients (
p = 0.011 and 0.0001, respectively), while Th2‐ and Treg‐related transcription factors,
GATA3 and
GITR, were downregulated in these patients compared with the healthy subjects (
p = 0.0008 and <0.000, respectively). Treg‐associated miRNAs, the miR‐106b‐25–93 cluster, showed a higher rate in RPL patients (
P = 0.007, 0.001, and 0.029, respectively), however, we observed no significant difference in the expression level of Th17‐associated miRNA, mir‐326. According to the results, we concluded that unbalanced immune responses and deregulated function of T‐cell subsets may lead to reproduction‐related failure like a miscarriage. Therefore, evaluation of immune cells and related miRNA profile may serve as prognostic biomarker for the treatment of RPL patients.
Roles of microRNAs in preeclampsia
Authors: Lv Yan , Lu Cheng , Ji Xiaohong , Miao Zhijing , Long Wei , Ding Hongjuan , Lv Mingming
Published: September 2018

Preeclampsia (PE) is a complex disorder that is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria after the 20th week of pregnancy, and it causes most neonatal morbidity and perinatal mortality. Most studies suggest that placental dysfunction is the main cause of PE. However, genetic factors, immune factors, and systemic inflammation are also related to the pathophysiology of this syndrome. Thus far, the exact pathogenesis of PE is not yet fully understood, and intense research efforts are focused on PE to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) refer to small single‐stranded and noncoding molecules that can negatively regulate gene expression, and miRNA regulatory networks play an important role in diverse pathological processes. Many studies have confirmed deregulated miRNA in pregnant patients with PE, and the function and mechanism of these differentially expressed miRNA are gradually being revealed. In this review, we summarize the current research about miRNA involved in PE, including placenta‐specific miRNA, their predictive value, and their function in the development of PE. This review will provide fundamental evidence of miRNA in PE, and further studies are necessary to explore the roles of miRNA in the early diagnosis and treatment of PE.
Suppression of SEMA6C promotes preantral follicles atresia with decreased cell junctions in mice ovaries
Authors: Yan Wei , Zhou Su , Shen Wei , Cheng Jing , Yuan Suzhen , Ye Shuangmei , Jin Yan , Luo Aiyue , Wang Shixuan
Published: September 2018

Mammalian oocytes go through a long and complex developmental process, while acquiring the competencies that are required for fertilization and embryogenesis. Recent studies revealed that the communication between oocytes and granulosa cells (GCs) is a critical process for female follicle development. In the current study, we aimed to study whether and how semaphorin 6C (Sema6c) regulated the cell junctions between oocytes and GCs in mice preantral follicles. The attenuation of SEMA6C expression by siRNA decreased the cell–cell junctions and accelerated follicle atresia in vitro. PI3K‐AKT pathway was activated when SEMA6C expression was downregulated. And the LY294002, a PI3K inhibitor, could reverse the effect of low SEMA6C expression on cell junctions in preantral follicles. Our findings revealed that Sema6c was involved in follicle development, and the suppression of SEMA6C led to cell junction defection by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway, which might also provide valuable information for understanding premature ovarian failure and ovarian aging.