bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seed freeze sensitivity and ex situ longevity of 295 species in the native Hawaiian flora
Authors: Chau Marian M. , Chambers Timothy , Weisenberger Lauren , Keir Matthew , Kroessig Timothy I. , Wolkis Dustin , Kam Roy , Yoshinaga Alvin Y.
Published: September 2019

Premise

Ex situ seed banking is critical for plant conservation globally, especially for threatened floras in tropical ecosystems like Hawai‘i. Seed bank managers must maximize longevity, and species managers must plan restoration before seeds lose viability. Previous observations suggested some native Hawaiian seeds lost viability in frozen storage (−18°C). We investigated seed storage behavior in the Hawaiian flora to optimize storage conditions and recommend re‐collection intervals (RCI) to maximize viability of stored seeds.

Methods

Using 20+ years of real‐time seed storage viability data, we tested freeze sensitivity for 197 species and calculated RCIs for 295 species. Using paired tests of accessions stored >2 yr at 5°C and −18°C, we developed an index of relative performance to determine freeze sensitivity. We calculated RCIs at 70% of highest germination (P70).

Results

We identified four families (Campanulaceae, Cyperaceae, Rubiaceae, and Urticaceae) and four genera with seed freeze sensitivity and six additional genera with likely freeze sensitivity. Storage longevity was variable, but 195 species had viability >70% at the most recent tests (1 to 20+ yr), 123 species had RCIs >10 yr, and 45 species had RCIs <5 yr.

Conclusions

Freeze sensitive storage behavior is more widely observed in Hawai‘i than any other regional flora, perhaps due to insufficient testing elsewhere. We present a new protocol to test seed freeze sensitivity, which is often not evident until 2–5 years of storage. Re‐collection intervals will guide restoration practices in Hawai‘i, and results inform seed conservation efforts globally, especially tropical and subtropical regions.
A screen of 1,049 schizophrenia and 30 Alzheimer's‐associated variants for regulatory potential
Authors: Myint Leslie , Wang Ruihua , Boukas Leandros , Hansen Kasper D. , Goff Loyal A. , Avramopoulos Dimitrios
Published: September 2019

Recent genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) identified numerous schizophrenia (SZ) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) associated loci, most outside protein‐coding regions and hypothesized to affect gene transcription. We used a massively parallel reporter assay to screen, 1,049 SZ and 30 AD variants in 64 and nine loci, respectively for allele differences in driving reporter gene expression. A library of synthetic oligonucleotides assaying each allele five times was transfected into K562 chronic myelogenous leukemia lymphoblasts and SK‐SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. One hundred forty eight variants showed allelic differences in K562 and 53 in SK‐SY5Y cells, on average 2.6 variants per locus. Nine showed significant differences in both lines, a modest overlap reflecting different regulatory landscapes of these lines that also differ significantly in chromatin marks. Eight of nine were in the same direction. We observe no preference for risk alleles to increase or decrease expression. We find a positive correlation between the number of SNPs in linkage disequilibrium and the proportion of functional SNPs supporting combinatorial effects that may lead to haplotype selection. Our results prioritize future functional follow up of disease associated SNPs to determine the driver GWAS variant(s), at each locus and enhance our understanding of gene regulation dynamics.
PolyMOF Nanoparticles: Dual Roles of a Multivalent polyMOF Ligand in Size Control and Surface Functionalization
Authors: Gu Yuwei , Huang Mingjun , Zhang Wenxu , Pearson Matthew A. , Johnson Jeremiah A.
Published: September 2019

Metal–organic framework nanoparticles (MOF NPs) have emerged as an important class of materials that display significantly enhanced performance in many applications compared to bulk MOF materials; their synthesis, however, commonly involves a tedious sequence that controls particle size and surface properties in separate steps. Now, a simple strategy to access functional MOF NPs in one pot is reported that uses a polyMOF ligand possessing a polymer block for surface functionalization and a coordination block with tunable multivalency for size control. This strategy produces uniform polyMOF‐5 NPs with sizes down to 20 nm, displaying exceptional structural and colloidal stability upon exposure to ambient conditions. A detailed time‐dependent study revealed that the polyMOF NPs were formed following an aggregation‐confined crystallization mechanism. Generality was demonstrated through the synthesis of well‐defined polyUiO‐66 NPs.
Selectivity of Chemical Conversions: Do Light‐Driven Photoelectrocatalytic Processes Hold Special Promise?
Authors: Beranek Radim
Published: September 2019

One of the great challenges in chemistry is the development of innovative catalytic processes. In this context, significant opportunities are currently opening up for technologies based on electrocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis, as these can drive various valuable catalytic redox transformations under very mild conditions. However, many catalytic processes lead to various different products of different value, and the technological attractiveness of catalytic processes depends to a large extent on their selectivity towards a specific desired product. In this Viewpoint, I propose and explore the idea that, due to the distinct features of interfacial energetics at illuminated semiconductors, light‐driven photoelectrocatalytic processes at well‐designed semiconductors represent a particularly attractive platform for the development of highly efficient systems for selective catalytic conversions. The investigations of selectivity and synthetic aspects of photoelectrocatalysis should gain momentum, especially as they also promise commercially viable applications on a more immediate time scale as compared to, for example, the light‐driven production of hydrogen.
Entropically Favoured Assembly of Pyrazine‐Based Helical Fibers into Superstructures: Achiral/ Chiral Guest‐Induced Chirality Transformation
Authors: Sharma Sonia , Kataria Meenal , Kumar Manoj , Bhalla Vandana
Published: September 2019

The development of synthetic helical structures undergoing stimuli‐responsive chirality transformations is important for an understanding of the role of chirality in natural systems. However, controlling supramolecular chirality in entropically driven assemblies in aqueous media is challenging. To develop stimuli‐responsive assemblies, we designed and synthesized pyrazine derivatives with l‐alanine groups as chiral building blocks. These systems undergo self‐assembly in aqueous media to generate helical fibers and the embedded alanine groups transfer their chirality to the assembled structures. Furthermore, these helical fibers undergo a Ni2+‐induced chirality transformation. The study demonstrates the role of intermolecular hydrogen bonding, π–π stacking, and the hydrophobic effect in the Ni2+‐mediated transition of helical fibers to supercoiled helical ensembles which mimic the formation of superstructures in biopolymers.
Regio‐ and Enantioselective Synthesis of Sulfone‐Bearing Quaternary Carbon Stereocenters by Pd‐Catalyzed Allylic Substitution
Authors: Khan Ajmal , Zhao Heng , Zhang Meina , Khan Shahid , Zhao Depeng
Published: September 2019

Chiral sulfones are of great importance in medicinal chemistry and chemical synthesis. Efficient methods for preparing enantiomerically enriched sulfone‐containing molecules can therefore be of significant value; such methods, however, are uncommon. Herein, we report the first general palladium‐catalyzed sulfonylation of vinyl cyclic carbonates with sodium sulfinates. A series of enantiomerically enriched tertiary allylic sulfones were synthesized in good yields with excellent enantiomeric ratios. Both aliphatic‐ and aryl‐substituted vinyl cyclic carbonates are suitable reactants with excellent results. This reaction features broad substrates scope, readily available starting materials, excellent regio‐ and enantioselectivity, and synthesis of sulfone‐bearing quaternary carbon stereocenters. Through the sulfonylation of geranyl derived cyclic carbonate 1 h, we achieve the formal total synthesis of (+)‐agelasidine A.
Investigation of Y2O3/MgO‐modified extrusion–spheronized CaO‐based pellets for high‐temperature CO2 capture
Authors: Pi Shuai , Zhang Zonghao , He Donglin , Qin Changlei , Ran Jingyu
Published: September 2019

To develop CaO‐based sorbent pellets with highly efficient and stable CO2 capture capacity and sufficient mechanical strength for the application of calcium looping in circulating fluidized beds, Y2O3/MgO‐incorporated CaO‐based sorbents were fabricated via three synthesis methods and then sorbent pellets were prepared via extrusion and spheronization in the paper. Results showed that wet planetary ball milling was a good potential routine for large‐scale sorbent preparation. Additionally, impacts of liquid/solid ratio in wet ball milling and mass ratio of Y2O3/MgO were also investigated comprehensively. It was found that under the optimal liquid/solid ratio of 1:1 and Y2O3/MgO mass ratio of 2:1 determined, spherical Y2Mg1–1/1 sorbent exhibited desirable cyclic CO2 capture performance with a fast carbonation rate, achieving a CO2 uptake of 0.1399 g‐CO2/g‐sorbent after 62 cycles and improved about 31.1% in comparison of pure Ca (OH)2 pellets (CH). This was mainly owning to homogeneously distributed small grains and solid supports as well as enhanced pore structure in the wet ball‐milled pellets. Furthermore, long‐time fluidized attrition test was performed on the pellets, and the average attrition rate of Y2Mg1–1/1 was observed to be only one third that of CH. Even in the repeated carbonation/calcination process under high temperature, Y2Mg1–1/1 still possessed an excellent resistance to attrition.
Preparation and characterization of mosaic coke from heavy‐phase coal pitch
Authors: Zhu Yaming , Xu Yunliang , Hu Chaoshuai , Yin Xitao , Zhao Chunlei , Gao Lijuan , Zhao Xuefei
Published: September 2019

Mosaic coke is a considerable intermediate material to produce high‐quality special graphite (isotropic graphite and nuclear graphite). The properties of mosaic coke keep a key role on the quality of special graphite. For a detailed investigation on the feasibility of the production of high‐quality mosaic coke with heavy‐phase coal pitch as the raw material, five kinds of heavy‐phase coal pitches with varied basic physical properties were used as the raw materials to produce mosaic coke in this study. Briefly, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy spectrum combined with curve fitting method have been used to determine the aromatic condensation index (Iar) of heavy‐phase coal pitch. The polarizing microscope incorporated with carbon theory, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Raman spectrum have been used to characterize the microstructure of mosaic cokes. The micro‐strength of mosaic cokes have been examined by the micro‐strength tester. The results have shown that the heavy‐phase coal pitches with Iar less than 0.91 are the potential raw materials to produce the high‐quality mosaic coke with higher micro‐strength (higher than 79%).
Reproducible, biocompatible medical materials from biologically derived polysaccharides: Processing and Characterization
Authors: Modak Piyush , Hammond Willis , Jaffe Michael , Nadig Malavika , Russo Richard
Published: September 2019

Natural polysaccharides like chitosan and dextran have garnered considerable interest in biomedical applications due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and nontoxicity. Nonetheless, the development of a reproducible class of medical devices from these materials is challenging and has had limited success. Chitosan and dextran are inherently variable and synthesis using these materials is prone to inconsistencies. In this study, we put forward a robust product development regimen that allows these natural materials to be developed into a reproducible class of biomaterials. First, an array of validated characterization methods (Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, titrations, Ultraviolet spectroscopy, Size Exclusion Chromatography—Multi‐Angle Light Scattering, Size Exclusion Chromatography—Refractive Index, and proprietary methods) were developed that allowed rigorous specifications to be set for unprocessed chitosan and dextran, chitosan and dextran intermediates, and chemically modified materials—acrylated chitosan (aCHN) and oxidized dextran (oDEX). Second, a robust and reproducible synthesis scheme involving various in‐process controls was developed to chemically modify the unprocessed polysaccharides. Third, purification methods to remove byproducts and low‐molecular‐weight impurities for both aCHN and oDEX were developed. The study presents a viable strategy for converting variable, natural materials into a reproducible class of biomaterials that can be applied in various biomedical applications. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48454.
Carbonyl Sulfide (COS) Donor Induced Protein Persulfidation Protects against Oxidative Stress
Authors: Chauhan Preeti , Gupta Kavya , Ravikumar Govindan , Saini Deepak K. , Chakrapani Harinath
Published: September 2019

The emergence of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) as an important signalling molecule in redox biology with therapeutic potential has triggered interest in generating this molecule within cells. One strategy that has been proposed is to use carbonyl sulfide (COS) as a surrogate for hydrogen sulfide. Small molecules that generate COS have been shown to produce hydrogen sulfide in the presence of carbonic anhydrase, a widely prevalent enzyme. However, other studies have indicated that COS may have biological effects which are distinct from H2S. Thus, it would be useful to develop tools to compare (and contrast) effects of COS and H2S. Here we report enzyme‐activated COS donors that are capable of inducing protein persulfidation, which is symptomatic of generation of hydrogen sulfide. The COS donors are also capable of mitigating stress induced by elevated reactive oxygen species. Together, our data suggests that the effects of COS parallel that of hydrogen sulfide, laying the foundation for further development of these donors as possible therapeutic agents.
Optimization of penicillin G acylase immobilized on glutaraldehyde‐modified titanium dioxide
Authors: Chen Zhangjun , Chen Zhenbin , Liu Chunli , Wang Xudong , Zhou Yongshan , Wang Runtian
Published: September 2019

In this work, TiO2, which was modified by glutaraldehyde, was adopted as the carrier; the penicillin G acylase (PGA) was immobilized and the influence of immobilized conditions, such as pH of solution, the concentration of PGA, the immobilization temperature, and the reaction time, on the catalytic performance of the immobilized PGA was investigated and optimized. During this process, potassium penicillin G (PG) was chosen as substrate, and the quantity of 6‐aminopenicillanic acid (6‐APA) produced by PG at the temperature of 25 °C for 3 Min in neutral solution was conscripted as the evaluation foundation, indexes, containing the loading capacity (ELC), the activity (EA), and activity retention rate (EAR), were calculated based on quantities of produced 6‐APA and compared with finding out the suitable conditions. Results showed that when the solution pH, PGA concentration, immobilization temperature, and reaction time were 8.0, 2.5% (v/v), 35 °C, and 24 H, respectively, ELC, EA, and EAR presented optimal values of 9,190 U, 14,969 U/g, and 88.5% relatedly. After that, the stability and reusability of immobilized PGA were studied, and the results documented that the pH resistance, thermal stability, and storage stability of immobilized PGA were significantly improved. This work provided technique support for the practical application of immobilized PGA carrier.
Comorbidities in children with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Markovic‐Jovanovic Snezana R. , Milovanovic Jelena D. , Jovanovic Aleksandar N. , Zivkovic Jovan B. , Balovic Aleksandra D. , Nickovic Vanja , Vasic Maja Z. , Ristic Milka Z.
Published: September 2019

Background

Intellectual disability (ID) is registered in 2%–3% of newborns. In most cases, the causes are not identifiable.

Objective

We explored the correlation between the intellectual disability and gestational age, birth weight, Apgar score, familial diseases, congenital anomalies, and acquired medical disorders, with the aim to estimate the prevalence and severity of comorbidities in the affected children.

Methods

Our study included 22 children with ID, and 24 with proper psychomotor development, aged 5–10 who were not considered to have ID.

Results

The presence of familial disorders and CNS congenital anomalies increased the risk of ID 4.147 and 2.59 times, respectively. The risk for other congenital and noncongenital diseases was higher (7.38 and 1.4 times, respectively) in children with intellectual disability.

Conclusions

Children with intellectual disabilities have higher incidence of congenital diseases, family disorders and a higher frequency of acquired disorders during childhood. Apgar score is a sensitive predictor of morbidity regarding congenital as well as noncongenital medical conditions.
Lebenszykluskostenbetrachtungen für chloridexponierte Bauteile von Brücken‐ und Tunnelbauwerken
Authors: Schießl‐Pecka Angelika , Rausch Anne , Zintel Marc , Linden Christian
Published: September 2019

An Verkehrsbauwerken mit nur sehr geringem Alter sind in der Vergangenheit vermehrt Schäden aufgetreten. Ursache ist die hohe Chloridbelastung durch Streusalz/Sole aus dem Winterdienst, welche chloridinduzierte Bewehrungskorrosion hervorruft. Die Instandsetzung resultierender Schäden ist nicht zuletzt aufgrund in der Regel erforderlicher Verkehrssicherungsmaßnahmen sehr kostenintensiv. Immer öfter stellt sich die Frage, welche Maßnahmen zu ergreifen sind, um zum einen Kosten zu reduzieren und zum anderen aber eine hohe Dauerhaftigkeit bei gleichzeitiger Robustheit der Maßnahme sicherzustellen. In diesem Zusammenhang wurden Lebenszykluskostenbetrachtungen für stark chloridbeaufschlagte Bauteile, wie Brückenkappen, Brückenmittelpfeiler, Tunnelnotgehwege, Tunnelinnenwände durchgeführt. Es wurden verschiedene Stahlgüten (konventionelle vs. nichtrostende Bewehrung) und Oberflächenschutzsysteme (OS‐System vs. Tiefenhydrophobierung) sowie verschiedene Instandsetzungsvarianten (Erneuerung OS‐System vs. Instandsetzung) verglichen. Für eine abschließende Bewertung relevanter Varianten wurden neben den Lebenszykluskosten zusätzlich auch die Themen „Dauerhaftigkeit“ sowie „Baupraktische Gesichtspunkte“ berücksichtigt.
Clinical correlates of mathematical modeling of cortical spreading depression: Single‐cases study
Authors: Kroos Julia M. , de Tommaso Marina , Stramaglia Sebastiano , Vecchio Eleonora , Burdi Nicola , Gerardo‐Giorda Luca
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Considerable connections between migraine with aura and cortical spreading depression (CSD), a depolarization wave originating in the visual cortex and traveling toward the frontal lobe, lead to the hypothesis that CSD is underlying migraine aura. The highly individual and complex characteristics of the brain cortex suggest that the geometry might impact the propagation of cortical spreading depression.

Methods

In a single‐case study, we simulated the CSD propagation for five migraine with aura patients, matching their symptoms during a migraine attack to the CSD wavefront propagation. This CSD wavefront was simulated on a patient‐specific triangulated cortical mesh obtained from individual MRI imaging and personalized diffusivity tensors derived locally from diffusion tensor imaging data.

Results

The CSD wave propagation was simulated on both hemispheres, despite in all but one patient the symptoms were attributable to one hemisphere. The CSD wave diffused with a large wavefront toward somatosensory and prefrontal regions, devoted to pain processing.

Discussion

This case‐control study suggests that the cortical geometry may contribute to the modality of CSD evolution and partly to clinical expression of aura symptoms. The simulated CSD is a large and diffuse phenomenon, possibly capable to activate trigeminal nociceptors and to involve cortical areas devoted to pain processing.
A relational view of climate adaptation in the private sector: How do value chain interactions shape business perceptions of climate risk and adaptive behaviours?
Authors: Canevari‐Luzardo Laura M. , Berkhout Frans , Pelling Mark
Published: September 2019

Studies exploring climate change adaptation in the private sector have seldom investigated the effect of business network interactions on climate vulnerability and adaptation outcomes. This paper proposes a novel theoretical framework to explore how business–network dynamics affect risk perceptions and adaptive behaviours in business firms. The framework is empirically grounded in a comparative analysis of business–network dynamics from three agricultural value chains in Jamaica that are vulnerable to climate change impacts. The results illustrate how the exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity of value chain actors are influenced by business interdependencies and interfirm relationships. We find that the level of formality of business exchanges (contractual or noncontractual), the level of resource interdependency, and the ability to diversify access channels to critical resources can influence the propagation of climate‐related risks and influence actors' exposure and sensitivity to those risks. The study also offers evidence of the role played by bonding and bridging relational ties on adaptive capacity. The framework and findings provide a foundation for a new research agenda exploring a relational view of firm adaptation strategy in response to climate risks.
Business strategy and firm efforts on environmental protection: Evidence from China
Authors: Kong Dongmin , Yang Xiandong , Liu Chen , Yang Wei
Published: September 2019

Although business strategy plays a fundamental role in firm operations, whether and how business strategy affects firms' environmental protection behaviors remain unclear. On the basis of a typical emerging market, we show that firms following prospector strategies take more environmental protection actions than do those following defender strategies. Our findings are robust to endogeneity checks and alternative measures of business strategy. We further find that prospectors engage in more environmental activities than do defenders when the degree of financial constraint or earning management is high. Our results are particularly pronounced in state‐owned enterprises, heavy‐polluting industries, and firms located in regions with strict environmental regulations. Overall, this study provides clear policy implications for regulators concerned with environmental protection.
Anatomical Variability of Intercondylar Fossa Geometry in Patients Diagnosed with Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture
Authors: Zbrojkiewicz David , Scholes Corey , Zhong Emily , Holt Matthew , Bell Christopher
Published: September 2019

The aims of this study were to (1) describe the three‐dimensional characteristics and sources of anatomical variability in the geometry of the intercondylar fossa (“notch”) in an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)‐injured sample and (2) assess the relationship between patient factors and anatomical variability of the fossa in the context of impingement risk. A retrospective analysis of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for 49 patients with ACL rupture was performed. Scans were examined in the axial plane using an online picture archiving and communication system (PACS) viewer and fossa width and angle assessed at multiple slices, as well as anteroposterior depth, fossa height, and calculated total volume. Principal component analysis was performed to prioritize the sources of variability. A multivariate linear regression was performed to assess relationships between different patient factors, controlling for imaging parameters and principal component loadings. Geometric properties were normally distributed for all but fossa volume, height, and distal angle. Three principal components (PCs) were identified explaining 80% of total variance, shape (PC1), size in the coronal plane (PC2), and size in the sagittal plane (PC3). Patient factors were significantly (P < 0.05) related to PC loadings; however, a substantial amount of variance in each model remained unexplained. Intercondylar fossa characteristics vary considerably within ACL‐injury patients with shape and size in coronal and axial planes, explaining most of the variance. Although patient factors are associated with anatomical characteristics, further work is required to identify the correct combination of factors accurately predicting geometry of the fossa for planning ACL reconstruction. Clin. Anat. 33:610–618, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Integrated transcriptomics reveals master regulators of lung adenocarcinoma and novel repositioning of drug candidates
Authors: De Bastiani Marco Antônio , Klamt Fábio
Published: September 2019

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma is the major cause of cancer‐related deaths in the world. Given this, the importance of research on its pathophysiology and therapy remains a key health issue. To assist in this endeavor, recent oncology studies are adopting Systems Biology approaches and bioinformatics to analyze and understand omics data, bringing new insights about this disease and its treatment.

Methods

We used reverse engineering of transcriptomic data to reconstruct nontumorous lung reference networks, focusing on transcription factors (TFs) and their inferred target genes, referred as regulatory units or regulons. Afterwards, we used 13 case‐control studies to identify TFs acting as master regulators of the disease and their regulatory units. Furthermore, the inferred activation patterns of regulons were used to evaluate patient survival and search drug candidates for repositioning.

Results

The regulatory units under the influence of ATOH8, DACH1, EPAS1, ETV5, FOXA2, FOXM1, HOXA4, SMAD6, and UHRF1 transcription factors were consistently associated with the pathological phenotype, suggesting that they may be master regulators of lung adenocarcinoma. We also observed that the inferred activity of FOXA2, FOXM1, and UHRF1 was significantly associated with risk of death in patients. Finally, we obtained deptropine, promazine, valproic acid, azacyclonol, methotrexate, and ChemBridge ID compound 5109870 as potential candidates to revert the molecular profile leading to decreased survival.

Conclusion

Using an integrated transcriptomics approach, we identified master regulator candidates involved with the development and prognostic of lung adenocarcinoma, as well as potential drugs for repurposing.
Involvement of repair genes in oral cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Fonseca Alexandre Luiz Affonso , Prosdocimi Fábio , Bianco Bianca , Perez Matheus Moreira , Fonseca Fernando Luiz Affonso , da Costa Aguiar Alves Beatriz
Published: September 2019

Among the types of cancers that may occur in the oral cavity, squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) of the mouth have a higher incidence and are associated with increased rates of morbidity and mortality. Among steps from the beginning to the progression of the tumour, DNA Repair System is highlighted. The present study aims to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the expression of the repair genes hMSH2 and hMSH6 in patients with SCC in the mouth and oropharyngeal region. The search was performed in databases such as PubMed, Lilacs, and Scielo and included articles published in English from 1999 until 2015. The search in the above‐mentioned databases initially yielded 15 scientific articles related to the proposed objective. After a detailed analysis of each of them, only 8 were included in the present review, precisely because they met the inclusion criteria determined in the method. All the reviewed works were unanimous in recognizing the veracity and complexity of the Genomic Repair System, also called Mismatch Repair System, confirming the participation of repair gene proteins (such as hMSH2 and hMSH6) in patients with oral cancer and even of lesions that are susceptible to malignization.

Significance of the study

Worldwide, there are an estimated 300 thousand new cases of oral cancer per year. Studies have shown a greater risk in individuals who are smokers and alcohol consumers in developing mouth cancer. Many steps are observed from the beginning to the progression of the tumour, highlighted among them is the moment in which genetic, and epigenetic alterations will interfere in the functioning of the DNA Repair System. This work presents a survey of current knowledge about the involvement of repair genes, especially those of the MutSα system, in the development and progression of oral cancer.
Loss of Annexin A5 expression attenuates the lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflammatory response of rat alveolar macrophages
Authors: Zhang Zhizhong , Zhang Yuanbo , Zhou Rongbin
Published: September 2019

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a common respiratory syndrome accompanied with an inflammation response. Annexin A5 (AnxA5) has anti‐thrombotic, anti‐apoptotic, and anti‐inflammatory properties. The current study aims to explore the potential effect of AnxA5 on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced inflammatory response in alveolar macrophages (AMs). Rat AMs (NR8383) were used in this study, and the cell viabilities at 4, 8, and 16 h after LPS administration with gradient concentrations were determined using cell counting kit‐8 assay. Cell apoptosis and expressions of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and protein were determined by flow cytometry, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), and western blot, respectively. We found that LPS suppressed the viability of AMs in a dose‐dependent manner, and it elevated the expression of AnxA5 in AMs. Inhibition of AnxA5 improved the cell viability compared with the LPS group and could reduce the apoptosis rate in comparison with LPS treatment. The knockdown of AnxA5 suppressed the expressions of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL‐1β), and IL‐6 at both protein and mRNA levels and regulated the expressions of apoptosis‐related molecules (Bax, Bcl‐2, and caspase‐3). Moreover, the knockdown of AnxA5 improved the expression levels of inhibitory κB (IκB) and nuclear factor E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) but inhibited the expression of nuclear transcription factor κB (NF‐κB), compared with the LPS group. SN50 and ML385 were used to validate this signaling, and the inhibition of AnxA5 suppressed the LPS‐induced inflammation, indicating that AnxA5 may be a potential anti‐inflammatory target. In addition, NF‐κB/Nrf2 signaling pathway may also be involved in the LPS‐induced inflammatory response of rat alveolar macrophages.
Highly Sensitive Electrochemical Determination of Norepinephrine Using Poly Acrylic Acid‐Coated Nanoceria
Authors: Son Seong Eun , Ko Euna , Tran Van‐Khue , Hur Won , Choi Hyun , Lee Han Been , Park Yosep , Seong Gi Hun
Published: September 2019

We synthesized a poly acrylic acid‐coated nanoceria (PNC) and developed colorimetric and electrochemical methods for determining norepinephrine (NE) using 3,3′‐5,5′‐tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) as a redox marker. The PNC was the nanozyme, an oxidase mimic with effective catalytic activity. During the reaction, PNC oxidized the TMB (TMBox) in the absence of hydrogen peroxide. The product not only showed visible color change from transparent to blue, but also generated an electrochemical current. NE reduced the TMBox, and the color changed from blue back to colorless. As a result, we were able to determine the NE concentration using both colorimetric and electrochemical methods. The colorimetric determination showed a linearity from 0.2 to 19 μM, with an estimated detection limit of 126 nM. For point‐of‐care applications, NE concentration was also detected on paper‐based devices. NE was detected from 1.0 to 25 μM with the detection limit of 863 nM. For electrochemical detection, gold nanoparticles were deposited on indium tin oxide glass as the working electrode. NE ranged from 0.1 to 300 μM, with an estimated detection limit of 66 nM, which was lower than for the colorimetric methods. Spike recovery values for NE in human plasma samples ranged from 93.4 to 108 %. These results demonstrate that using PNC nanozymes for electrochemical detection is a promising assay to determine NE.
Chemometric study of kosmotropic and chaotropic ion properties related to Hofmeister effects
Authors: Jakubowska Anna , Kozik Tomasz
Published: September 2019

The ion specificity is ubiquitous in biological and colloidal phenomena. In this study, the Hofmeister effects have been observed in binding of univalent cations with the surfactant dimers. Chemometric analysis has also revealed that the ion specificity observed is mainly related to the effect of ions on the water structure, ie, to their kosmotropic and chaotropic properties. These ion properties, generally characteristic of aqueous solutions, are in accordance with the results of the principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis (CA) used for the processing of mass spectrometric data obtained in vacuum, ie, in the medium drastically different then water. Such an application of the chemometric methods has not been presented so far.
Successful anti‐CD19 CAR T‐cell therapy in HIV‐infected patients with refractory high‐grade B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Abramson Jeremy S. , Irwin Kelly E. , Frigault Matthew J. , Dietrich Jorg , McGree Brianne , Jordan Justin T. , Yee Andrew J. , Chen Yi‐Bin , Raje Noopur S. , Barnes Jeffrey A. , Davis Benjamin
Published: September 2019

HIV‐positive patients have been excluded from clinical trials evaluating chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapies. Herein, the authors report on 2 patients with HIV/AIDS–associated, chemotherapy‐refractory, aggressive B‐cell lymphomas who were treated successfully with the anti‐CD19 CAR T‐cell product axicabtagene ciloleucel.
Perceived stress is associated with a higher symptom burden in cancer survivors
Authors: Mazor Melissa , Paul Steven M. , Chesney Margaret A. , Chen Lee‐May , Smoot Betty , Topp Kimberly , Conley Yvette P. , Levine Jon D. , Miaskowski Christine
Published: September 2019

Background

Although multiple co‐occurring symptoms are a significant problem for cancer survivors, to the authors' knowledge little is known regarding the phenotypic characteristics associated with a higher symptom burden. The objectives of the current study were to evaluate the occurrence, severity, and distress associated with 32 symptoms and examine the phenotypic and stress characteristics associated with a higher symptom burden.

Methods

A total of 623 cancer survivors completed a demographic questionnaire, as well as measures of functional status, comorbidity, and global (Perceived Stress Scale) and cancer‐related (Impact of Event Scale–Revised) stress. The Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale was used to evaluate symptom burden. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the phenotypic characteristics associated with a higher symptom burden.

Results

The mean number of symptoms was 9.1 (±5.2). The most common, severe, and distressing symptoms were lack of energy, problems with sexual interest/activity, and hair loss, respectively. Poorer functional status, a higher level of comorbidity, and a history of smoking as well as higher Perceived Stress Scale and Impact of Event Scale–Revised scores were associated with a higher symptom burden. The overall model explained approximately 45.6% of the variance in symptom burden.

Conclusions

Although cancer survivors report a high number of co‐occurring symptoms of moderate severity and distress, in the current study, no disease or treatment characteristics were found to be associated with a higher symptom burden. Clinicians need to assess for general and disease‐specific stressors and provide referrals for stress management interventions. Future studies need to examine the longitudinal relationships among symptom burden, functional status, and level of comorbidity, as well as the mechanisms that underlie the associations between stress and symptom burden.
Bifunctional Therapy by Zinc‐Cobalt Bimetal‐Organic Framework with Encapsulated Doxorubicin to Overcome Drug‐Resistance
Authors: Wang Licheng , Hou Hanyi , Jiao Xinqi , Shen Tianyin , Liu Yingying , Qiao Yida , Liu Yu , Lu Yuan , Ge Jun
Published: September 2019

Drug resistance is a major challenge in antineoplastic chemotherapy, which could be possibly solved through multifunctional anti‐cancer therapy. This study constructs a drug delivery system with Zn(II)‐Co(II) bimetal‐organic framework nanoparticles with encapsulated doxorubicin (DOX), a model chemotherapeutic molecule. Beyond conventional therapeutic mechanisms powered by DOX, the newly applied Co(II) to the drug delivery system catalyzes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through a Fenton‐like process, leading to necrosis due to oxidative stress beyond threshold. The system displayed DOX‐based and Co(II)‐based dual mechanism anti‐cancer therapy to overcome DOX‐resistance while demonstrating significant cytotoxicity promotion in non‐resistant cell lines, as effects of ROS were further acknowledged by following cell characteristic examinations. This bifunctional DOX‐encapsulated bimetal‐organic framework nanoparticle opens a new strategy to construct multiple anti‐cancer mechanism drug delivery systems with great simplicity.
A Low‐Temperature Broadband NMR Probe for Multinuclear Cross‐Polarization
Authors: Aghelnejad Behdad , Bodenhausen Geoffrey , Marhabaie Sina
Published: September 2019

Dissolution dynamic nuclear polarization (D‐DNP) probes are usually designed for one or at most two specific nuclei. Investigation of multiple nuclei usually requires manufacturing a number of costly probes. In addition, changing the probe is a time‐consuming process since a system that works at low temperature (usually between 1.2 and 4.2 K) must be warmed up, thus increasing the risks of contamination. Here, an efficient apparatus is described for D‐DNP designed not only for microwave‐enhanced direct observation of a wide range of nuclei S such as 1H, 13C, 2H, 23Na, and 17O, but also for cross‐polarization (CP) from I=1H to such S nuclei. Unlike most conventional designs, the tuning and matching circuits are partly immersed in superfluid helium at temperatures down to 1.2 K. Intense radio‐frequency (RF) fields with amplitudes on the order of 50 kHz or better can be applied simultaneously to both nuclei I and S using RF amplifiers with powers on the order of 90 and 80 W, respectively, without significant losses of liquid helium. The system can operate at temperatures over a wide range between 1.2 and 300 K.
Meta‐Analyses of Clinical Efficacy of Risankizumab and Adalimumab in Chronic Plaque Psoriasis: Supporting Evidence of Risankizumab Superiority
Authors: Witjes Han , Khatri Amit , Diderichsen Paul M. , Mandema Jaap , Othman Ahmed A.
Published: September 2019

Risankizumab, an anti‐interleukin‐23 monoclonal antibody, achieved significantly (P < 0.001) greater Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and static Physician Global Assessment (sPGA) clear or almost clear (0/1) responses than adalimumab in a phase III trial in patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis. Meta‐analyses of the PASI 50, PASI 75, PASI 90, PASI 100, and sPGA0/1 responses after 16 weeks of treatment from eight (three for risankizumab and five for adalimumab) randomized, placebo‐controlled trials were conducted to estimate the efficacy difference between risankizumab and adalimumab. For PASI 75, PASI 90, PASI 100, and sPGA0/1 responses, the estimated effect differences (95% confidence interval) between risankizumab and adalimumab were 15.2% (10.1%, 20.4%), 23.7% (15.7%, 31.2%), 20.8% (13.0%, 28.7%), and 20.1% (13.7%, 26.1%), respectively. These results were consistent with the observed efficacy difference from the head‐to‐head phase III trial, which was not included in the meta‐analyses, providing independent, confirmatory evidence of the superior efficacy of risankizumab compared with adalimumab for treatment of moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis.
Corporate culture in small and medium enterprises: Application of corporate social responsibility theory
Authors: Getele Gutama Kusse , Li Tieke , Arrive Tsitaire Jean
Published: September 2019

The small and medium enterprises play a major role in creating jobs and therefore minimize the unemployment rate to attain corporate sustainable development. Its attention on corporate social responsibility is in doubt about their corporate culture including corporate image and motivation of employees. The purpose of this study is to identify the impact of corporate social responsibility in small and medium enterprises image and employees motivation in terms of environmental and social practices dimension. A quantitative sampling method of 34 small and medium enterprises in the global south was used. The result of this research shows that the variables of environmental dimensions have a significant impact on image and motivation than the variables of social dimensions such as human resources management and community practices. The study indicates that having corporate social responsibility in terms of environmental practices is the main factor in the effective business image and employees motivation.
Trust‐based forest monitoring system using Internet of Things
Authors: Vikash  , Varma Shirshu
Published: September 2019

We introduce trust‐based event‐driven (TBED) infrastructure for forest monitoring and reporting. TBED endows the real‐time local monitoring along with spatial monitoring. None of the work till now considers both local and spatial monitoring. To the best of our knowledge, TBED is the first attempt in this domain, where event‐related information is reported to the consumers along with the effective area. TBED is based on the event‐driven architecture in which device management and monitoring authorities, middleware event handler (MEH), and consumers are involved. Additionally, we present a trust mechanism to evaluate the sensor node trust for reliable information. At last, we present a case study of fire monitoring to depict the real‐life scenario.
Cytological appearance of pancreatic cystosis on fine‐needle aspiration
Authors: Aly F. Zahra , Mostofizadeh Sayedamin , Jawaid Salmaan
Published: September 2019

A 22‐year‐old Caucasian male with cystic fibrosis and recently diagnosed insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and was found to have multiple cystic lesions in the pancreas. Endoscopic ultrasound evaluation revealed multiple macro‐ and microcystic components without mural nodules. One of the cysts in the body of the pancreas was in clear direct communication with the nondilated main pancreatic duct. Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) of two cysts was performed and showed foamy macrophages and rare ductal as well as acinar cells. Cell blocks showed nonpolarizable pink crystalloid material and small nonlaminated concretions consistent with inspissated secretions. Special stains for chymotrypsin and trypsin highlighted the acinar cells. Periodic acid Schiff, with and without diastase, was negative. Biopsy of the cyst wall showed ductal epithelial cells with underlying fibrotic stroma. This is the first description of the FNA appearance of pancreatic cystosis. We discuss the cytological differential diagnosis of cystic lesions of the pancreas and the biochemical as well as imaging findings used to arrive at the diagnosis.
Kinematic characteristics of second‐order motor planning and performance in 6‐ and 10‐year‐old children and adults: Effects of age and task constraints
Authors: Domellöf Erik , Bäckström Anna , Johansson Anna‐Maria , Rönnqvist Louise , von Hofsten Claes , Rosander Kerstin
Published: September 2019

This study explored age‐related differences in motor planning as expressed in arm‐hand kinematics during a sequential peg moving task with varying demands on goal insertion complexity (second‐order planning). The peg was a vertical cylinder with either a circular or semicircular base. The task was to transport the peg between two positions and rotate it various amounts horizontally before fitting into its final position. The amount of rotation required was either 0°, 90°, 180°, or −90°. The reaching for the peg, the displacement of it, and the way the rotation was accomplished was analyzed. Assessments of end state comfort, goal interpretation errors, and type of grip used were also included. Participants were two groups of typically developing children, one younger (Mage = 6.7 years) and one older (Mage = 10.3 years), and one adult group (Mage = 34.9 years). The children, particularly 6‐year‐olds, displayed less efficient prehensile movement organization than adults. Related to less efficient motor planning, 6‐year‐olds, mainly, had shorter reach‐to‐grasp onset latencies, higher velocities, and shorter time to peak velocities, and longer grasp durations than adults. Importantly, the adults rotated the peg during transport. In contrast, the children made corrective rotations after the hand had arrived at the goal.
Optimizing eating disorder treatment outcomes for individuals identified via screening: An idea worth researching
Authors: Taylor Craig Barr , Graham Andrea K. , Fitzsimmons‐Craft Ellen E. , Sadeh‐Sharvit Shiri , Balantekin Katherine N. , Flatt Rachael E. , Goel Neha J. , Monterubio Grace E. , Topooco Naira , Karam Anna M. , Firebaugh Marie‐Laure , Ruzek Josef I. , Funk Burkhardt , Oldenburg Brian , Wilfley Denise E. , Jacobi Corinna
Published: September 2019

In recent years, online screens have been commonly used to identify individuals who may have eating disorders (EDs), many of whom may be interested in treatment. We describe a new empirical approach that takes advantage of current evidence on empirically supported, effective treatments, while at the same time, uses modern statistical frameworks and experimental designs, data‐driven science, and user‐centered design methods to study ways to expand the reach of programs, enhance our understanding of what works for whom, and improve outcomes, overall and in subpopulations. The research would focus on individuals with EDs identified through screening and would use continuously monitored data, and interactions of interventions/approaches to optimize reach, uptake, engagement, and outcome. Outcome would be assessed at the population, rather than individual level. The idea worth researching is to determine if an optimization outcome model produces significantly higher rates of clinical improvement at a population level than do current approaches, in which traditional interventions are only offered to the few people who are interested in and able to access them.