bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic value of association of OCT4 with LEF1 expression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and their impact on epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, invasion, and migration
Authors: Zhao Yue , Li Chunguang , Huang Lei , Niu Shuai , Lu Qijue , Gong Dejun , Huang Shengdong , Yuan Yang , Chen Hezhong
Published: July 2018

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a malignant disease with poor prognosis. Because of early metastasis prior to diagnosis and therapeutic resistance, ESCC has become one of the leading causes of cancer‐related death. Here, we investigated the clinicopathological significance of the association of octamer‐binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4) with lymphoid enhancer‐binding factor 1 (LEF1) expression and the potential molecular mechanism in the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, and migration of ESCC. The expression of OCT4 and LEF1 was detected via immunohistochemistry analysis. High levels of LEF1 expression were observed in 95 ESCC specimens and were obviously associated with aberrant clinicopathological features and poor patient prognosis. Our previous study showed that OCT4 expression level is elevated in ESCC, and statistical analysis showed that the elevated expression of OCT4 and LEF1 in ESCC was significantly associated with histologic grade, lymph node metastasis, TNM stage, and poor patient prognosis. The specific inhibition of OCT4 expression via a lentivirus encoding OCT4‐shRNA (LV‐shOCT4) in Eca109 cells led to decreased levels of OCT4 and LEF1 in vitro. Additionally, we applied a rescue strategy by infecting LV‐shOCT4 Eca109 cells with a LEF1 overexpression plasmid (p‐LEF1) and detected changes in EMT, migration, and invasion. Unsurprisingly, the p‐LEF1 group exhibited greater EMT, invasion, and migration than did the LV‐shOCT4 and negative control groups. This study demonstrates for the first time the relationship between OCT4 and LEF1 expression. The combination of high expression of OCT4 and LEF1 was associated with clinicopathological features of atypical patients, and this combination might be an ideal prognostic factor in ESCC. OCT4 positively regulated LEF1 expression, and LEF1 mediated the effects of OCT4 in cancer cell EMT, invasion, and migration. The data presented here suggest that the inhibition of OCT4‐LEF1 signaling may be a new therapeutic target for the treatment of ESCC.
Star‐Like Glycosaminoglycans with Superior Bioactivity Assemble with Proteins into Microfibers
Authors: Novoa‐Carballal Ramon , Carretero Agatha , Pacheco Raul , Reis Rui L. , Pashkuleva Iva
Published: July 2018

Here it is shown that glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) with high molecular weight can be grafted via their reducing end on hyperbranched synthetic cores by oxime condensation without the need of any previous functionalisation of the polysaccharide. The versatility of this reaction is demonstrated by the use of hyaluronan, chondroitin sulfate and heparin with up to 60 sugar units. The isothermal calorimetry analysis demonstrated that the generated star‐like glycopolymers have superior bioactivity. Moreover, when mixed with positively charged proteins (e.g., fibroblast growth factor‐2, FGF‐2) they form microfiber structures instead of the spherical nanocomplexes described for linear GAGs. The results suggest that the described star‐like GAG are closer mimics of the proteoglycans at the structural and functional level and therefore have huge potential in the development of tissue engineering platforms and therapeutics by modulating the activity and presentation of various proteins such as growth factors.
On‐Chip Screening of a Glycomimetic Library with C‐Type Lectins Reveals Structural Features Responsible for Preferential Binding of Dectin‐2 over DC‐SIGN/R and Langerin
Authors: Medve Laura , Achilli Silvia , Serna Sonia , Zuccotto Fabio , Varga Norbert , Thépaut Michel , Civera Monica , Vivès Corinne , Fieschi Franck , Reichardt Niels , Bernardi Anna
Published: July 2018

A library of mannose‐ and fucose‐based glycomimetics was synthesized and screened in a microarray format against a set of C‐type lectin receptors (CLRs) that included DC‐SIGN, DC‐SIGNR, langerin, and dectin‐2. Glycomimetic ligands able to interact with dectin‐2 were identified for the first time. Comparative analysis of binding profiles allowed their selectivity against other CLRs to be probed.
Oxidizing gas sensor with low concentration using complex impedance
Authors: Saeki Katsutoshi , Horiguchi Taku
Published: July 2018

In recent years, because of increased carbon dioxide emissions problem, the air pollution has been attracting attention. For example, the exhaust fumes produce nitrogen oxide and sulfur oxide. Therefore, these gases should be detected and measured. In this paper, we propose a novel moisture‐insensitive sensor consisting of a comb‐shaped electrode on a Si substrate. We also suggest a new measurement method, using complex impedances, for distinguishing between NO2 and SO2 at low concentrations. It is shown that propose oxidizing‐gas sensor, fabricated on a Si substrate, is moisture‐insensitive for humidity of 40% to 80%. Furthermore, we determine that it is possible to measure mixed gases in the range of 0.1–0.9 ppm for nitrogen dioxide and 0.6‐1.4 ppm for sulfur dioxide owing to the difference in the complex‐impedance change pattern.
Understanding mutuality: Unpacking relational processes in youth mentoring relationships
Authors: Lester Ashlee M. , Goodloe Courtney L. , Johnson Haley E. , Deutsch Nancy L.
Published: July 2018

Evidence suggests that a close interpersonal bond is important for the success of youth–adult mentoring relationships. Mutuality has been suggested to be important for developing a close interpersonal bond (Rhodes, 2002, 2005), but mutuality remains an abstract construct, difficult to understand and cultivate. Using thematic analysis of mentor and mentee (n = 42) interviews, we investigate how mentoring pairs reflect on mutuality. Results suggest that mutuality is understood as a combination of 2 dimensions: shared relational excitement and experiential empathy. Shared relational excitement is felt when there is a genuine desire by both the mentor and the mentee to invest in the relationship. Experiential empathy is the process through which mentors connect with, advise, and normalize the experiences of their mentees by sharing their own relevant experiences. This work has implications for mentor training, program development, and future research on youth–adult relationships.
Children's Experiences in the Therapeutic Relationship: Development and Validation of a Self‐Report Measure
Authors: PURSWELL KATHERINE E. , BRATTON SUE C.
Published: July 2018

To provide a developmentally appropriate instrument to measure children's perceptions of the therapeutic relationship, the authors developed the Relationship Inventory for Children. Exploratory factor analysis applied to the scores of children ages 6 to 9 (N = 100) resulted in 3 factors: Positive Regard, Unconditional Acceptance, and Empathy.
Approximate controllability of semilinear measure driven systems
Authors: Cao Yueju , Sun Jitao
Published: July 2018

This paper investigates approximate controllability of semilinear measure driven equations in Hilbert spaces. By using the semigroup theory and Schauder fixed point theorem, sufficient conditions for approximate controllability of measure driven equations are established. The obtained results are a generalization and continuation of the recent results on this issue. Finally, an example is provided to illustrate the application of the obtained results.
New Insights into RAFT Dispersion Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly: From Monomer Library, Morphological Control, and Stability to Driving Forces
Authors: Wang Xiao , An Zesheng
Published: July 2018

Polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) has been established as an efficient, robust, and versatile approach to synthesize various block copolymer nano‐objects with controlled morphologies, tunable dimensions, and diverse functions. The relatively high concentration and potential scalability makes it a promising technique for industrial production and practical applications of functional polymeric nanoparticles. This feature article outlines recent advances in PISA via reversible addition−fragmentation chain transfer dispersion polymerization. Considerable efforts to understand morphological control, broaden the monomer library, enhance morphological stability, and incorporate multiple driving forces in PISA syntheses are summarized herein. Finally, perspectives on the future of PISA research are discussed.
Reactive Polymorphic Nanoparticles: Preparation via Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly and Postsynthesis Thiol–para‐Fluoro Core Modification
Authors: Busatto Nicolas , Stolojan Vlad , Shaw Michael , Keddie Joseph L. , Roth Peter J.
Published: July 2018

The use of 2,3,4,5,6‐pentafluorobenzyl methacrylate (PFBMA) as a core‐forming monomer in ethanolic reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer dispersion polymerization formulations is presented. Poly[poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate] (pPEGMA) macromolecular chain transfer agents were chain‐extended with PFBMA leading to nanoparticle formation via polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA). pPEGMA‐pPFBMA particles exhibited the full range of morphologies (spheres, worms, and vesicles), including pure and mixed phases. Worm phases formed gels that underwent a thermo‐reversible degelation and morphological transition to spheres (or spheres and vesicles) upon heating. Postsynthesis, the pPFBMA cores were modified through thiol–para‐fluoro substitution reactions in ethanol using 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene as the base. For monothiols, conversions were 64% (1‐octanethiol) and 94% (benzyl mercaptan). Spherical and worm‐shaped nano‐objects were core cross‐linked using 1,8‐octanedithiol, which prevented their dissociation in nonselective solvents. For a temperature‐responsive worm sample, cross‐linking additionally resulted in the loss of the temperature‐triggered morphological transition. The use of the reactive monomer PFBMA in PISA formulations presents a simple method to prepare well‐defined nano‐objects similar to those produced with nonreactive monomers (e.g., benzyl methacrylate) and to retain morphologies independent of solvent and temperature.
Distribution of Conjugation Lengths in an Ensemble of Lattice Polymers
Authors: Alves Joniel C. F. , Freire José A.
Published: July 2018

The distribution of segment sizes, that is, the average and dispersion of the number of segments of a given size per chain, is investigated in an ensemble of lattice polymers. This distribution is the lattice version of the conjugation length distribution of conjugated polymers, which is central for both electronic and photophysical properties of conjugated polymer materials. Clear evidence is found that, when the chains interact only via excluded volume, both the average and the dispersion depend exponentially on the segment size and, at least for the more prevalent segment sizes, are identical to what is found in an isolated self‐avoiding chain. Whereas the polymer concentration has a clear effect on the end‐to‐end distances of the chains, it does not affect significantly the segment size distribution of the chains. It is argued that this happens whenever there is no distance or orientation correlation in the polymer distribution, that is, in a truly amorphous system, but not in the presence of aggregates or nematic order.
Stability of an explicit high‐order spectral element method for acoustics in heterogeneous media based on local element stability criteria
Authors: Cottereau Régis , Sevilla Ruben
Published: July 2018

This paper considers the stability of an explicit leapfrog time marching scheme for the simulation of acoustic wave propagation in heterogeneous media with high‐order spectral elements. The global stability criterion is taken as a minimum over local element stability criteria, obtained through the solution of element‐borne eigenvalue problems. First, an explicit stability criterion is obtained for the particular case of a strongly heterogeneous and/or rapidly fluctuating medium using asymptotic analysis. This criterion is only dependent upon the maximum velocity at the vertices of the mesh elements, and not on the velocity at the interior nodes of the high‐order elements. Second, in a more general setting, bounds are derived using statistics of the coefficients of the elemental dispersion matrices. Different bounds are presented, discussed, and compared. Several numerical experiments show the accuracy of the proposed criteria in one‐dimensional test cases as well as in more realistic large‐scale three‐dimensional problems.
Tunnel collapse risk assessment based on multistate fuzzy Bayesian networks
Authors: Sun Jinglai , Liu Baoguo , Chu Zhaofei , Chen Lei , Li Xin
Published: July 2018

Excessive structural deformation or collapse can lead to heavy casualties and substantial property loss. This paper presents a novel integrated risk assessment method based on multistate fuzzy Bayesian networks integrated with historical data, expert investigations, probability distribution calculations, discrepancy analysis, sensitivity analysis, and decision‐making. A new expert investigation is proposed with small probability intervals, expert weights, confidence index, etc. After gaining expert judgment by expert investigation, Chauvenet's criterion is first introduced in a discrepancy analysis to eliminate outlier data from the expert judgment and obtain a more reliable value. Thetdistribution and its confidence interval are also adopted to determine the characteristic value of the survey data as a triangular fuzzy number. A conditional probability table of the model is integrated with historical data and prior knowledge through the weight index. Sensitivity analysis is used to identify the critical factors by changing the probability distribution of each factor and observing the related changes in the risk event. The proposed method ensures the accuracy and scientific rigor of the assessment and the diagnosis of a tunnel accident. This method is successfully applied to assess the collapse probability of the Yu Liao Tunnel.
Preserving privacy between features in distributed estimation
Authors: Heinze‐Deml Christina , McWilliams Brian , Meinshausen Nicolai
Published: July 2018

Privacy is crucial in many applications of machine learning. Legal, ethical and societal issues restrict the sharing of sensitive data, making it difficult to learn from data sets that are partitioned between many parties. One important instance of such a distributed setting arises when information about each record in the data set is held by different data owners (the design matrix is “vertically partitioned”).In this setting, few approaches exist for private data sharing for the purpose of statistical estimation, and the classical set‐up of differential privacy with a “trusted curator” preparing the data does not apply. We work with the notion of (ϵ,δ)‐distributed differential privacy, which extends single‐party differential privacy to the distributed, vertically partitioned case. We propose PRIDE, a scalable framework for distributed estimation where each party communicates perturbed random projections of their locally held features ensuring (ϵ,δ)‐distributed differential privacy is preserved. For ℓ2‐penalized supervised learning problems, PRIDE has bounded estimation error compared with the optimal estimates obtained without privacy constraints in the non‐distributed setting. We confirm this empirically on real world and synthetic data sets. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Associations of Hospital Length of Stay with Surgical Site Infections
Authors: Mujagic Edin , Marti Walter R. , Coslovsky Michael , Soysal Savas D. , Mechera Robert , von Strauss Marco , Zeindler Jasmin , Saxer Franziska , Mueller Alexandra , Fux Christoph A. , Kindler Christoph , Gurke Lorenz , Weber Walter P.
Published: July 2018

Background

Surgical site infections (SSI) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in surgical patients. Postoperative and total hospital length of stay (LOS) are known to be prolonged by the occurrence of SSI. Preoperative LOS may increase the risk of SSI. This study aims at identifying the associations of pre‐ and postoperative LOS in hospital and intensive care with the occurrence of SSI.

Methods

This observational cohort study includes general, orthopedic trauma and vascular surgery patients at two tertiary referral centers in Switzerland between February 2013 and August 2015. The outcome of interest was the 30‐day SSI rate.

Results

We included 4596 patients, 234 of whom (5.1%) experienced SSI. Being admitted at least 1 day before surgery compared to same‐day surgery was associated with a significant increase in the odds of SSI in univariate analysis (OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.25–2.21, p < 0.001). More than 1 day compared to 1 day of preoperative hospital stay did not further increase the odds of SSI (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.77–1.50, p = 0.658). Preoperative admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) increased the odds of SSI as compared to hospital admission outside of an ICU (OR 2.19, 95% CI 0.89–4.59, p = 0.057). Adjusting for potential confounders in multivariable analysis weakened the effects of both preoperative admission to hospital (OR 1.38, 95% CI 0.99–1.93, p = 0.061) and to the ICU (OR 1.89, 95% CI 0.73–4.24, p = 0.149).

Conclusion

There was no significant independent association between preoperative length of stay and risk of SSI while SSI and postoperative LOS were significantly associated.
‘Revenge porn’ and the actio iniuriarum: using ‘old law’ to solve ‘new problems’
Authors: Brown Jonathan
Published: July 2018

‘Revenge porn’ is conceptualised as a modern phenomenon which the law is not equipped to deal with. The advent of smartphone technology has allowed sexually explicit material to be created easily and disseminated quickly. An increasing number of individuals have fallen victim to this phenomenon in recent years. This paper submits that victims of revenge porn ought to be held due monetary redress in the civil law, while acknowledging that the damage done by revenge porn need not necessarily involve a loss. Victims of revenge porn are likely to suffer from severe emotional distress and upset, but these injuries are non-patrimonial. This can consequently make it difficult to frame an action for damages. This paper asks if the delict iniuria might offer appropriate remedy in instances of revenge porn. The actio iniuriarum was, in Roman law, a delict which served to protect the non-patrimonial aspects of a person's existence – ‘who a person is rather than what a person has’. As the propagation of sexually explicit images of an individual without their consent is clearly an affront to the esteem of that individual, it is argued that instances of revenge porn ought to be considered actionable as iniuria in modern Scottish law.
RELATIVE ADVANTAGE OF HIGH YIELD POTENTIAL AT LOW-YIELDING ENVIRONMENTS FOR COMMERCIAL MAIZE HYBRIDS CROPPED IN ARGENTINA
Authors: ANTONIETTA MARIANA , GUIAMET JUAN J.
Published: July 2018

An extended assumption in maize breeding is that potential yield (Ymax) predicts yield (Y) under stress conditions (here, Ymin), justifying genotypic selection under moderately high-yielding environments. Moreover, it has been postulated that Y tolerance to stress is relatively independent on the main stress factor involved in Y reduction (cross-tolerance). We carried out an analysis of four datasets from Argentine Federated Farmers network (2010/11, 2011/12 and 2012/13, 11 locations and >20 hybrids) and the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA) (12 locations, 13 hybrids). No consistent relation was detected between Ymax and Ymin (r2 < 0.14) in each dataset. Y stability assessed by the coefficient of variation positively related to Ymin (r2 > 0.68 across datasets) but not to Ymax. Depending on the dataset, 40–70% of the hybrids had a varying Y performance (from worse to better) compared with the average of all hybrids, with no consistent advantage of hybrids with high Ymax within the environmental range explored in the dataset. In order to assess the existence of cross-tolerance, INTA environments were divided into two groups: water-limited environments and environments exposed to other(s) type(s) of stress. While a relation was found between average yields (r2 = 0.64) of each hybrid in both environments, there was no relation for Y stability (r2 = 0.07). Taken together, our results suggest that: (i) a high Ymax is not a good indicator of high Y tolerance under stressful conditions; (ii) Y tolerance is related to high Y stability, which may or may not involve a Y penalty under high-yielding environments; (iii) around 50% of the genotypes have Y performance that is not consistently worse or better than the average throughout the range of environments explored and (iv) cross-tolerance to stress is a peculiar trait of some hybrids, but most of the hybrids analysed here do not show cross-tolerance.
An Autoradiographic Study of Muscular Dystrophy, Motor Neuron Disease and Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Authors: Monckton George , Marusyk Halyna
Published: July 2018

The autoradiographic findings using tritiated leucine are described in muscle biopsy material from five patients with progressive muscular dystrophy (P.M.D.), three with motor neuron disease (M.N.D.) and four with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (C.M.T.). In progressive muscular dystrophy there is a marked increase in uptake of leucine into cytoplasmic proteins and precursors, and reduced incorporation into structural protein. In Charcot-Marie Tooth disease muscle there is a significantly increased uptake into cytoplasmic elements and a normal uptake into structural protein. In motor neuron disease the uptake into cytoplasmic elements appears normal but is reduced into structural proteins.

The abnormal uptake in C.M.T. could be explained as a product of regenerative efforts associated with reinnervation. However, the abnormal uptake may represent the primary effects of gene action in the muscle, as seems probable in progressive muscular dystrophy.
Pigment Variant of Neuronal Ceroid-Lipofuscinosis (Kufs’ Disease)
Authors: Horoupian Dikran S. , Ross R. T.
Published: July 2018

A case of pigment variant of Kufs’ disease is presented. The nature of the extra-neuronal pigment is discussed. Despite some of the histochemical discrepancies that existed between this pigment and the material that had accumulated in the nerve cells, they seemed to he ultrastructurally related. The hepatocytes contained numerous heterogeneous cytosomes, some of which resembled the storage material of Niemann-Pick’s disease.

Clinically the syndrome may present with progressive ataxia, spontaneous and reflex, coarse myoclonic jerks and eventual mental deterioration as well as epilepsy and muscle wasting. The pigment variant cannot be distinguished from Kufs’ disease except pathologically.
Förderung berufsbezogener Ziele in der psychosomatischen Rehabilitation durch Mentales Kontrastieren und Wenn-Dann-Pläne
Authors: Kessemeier Franziska , Petermann Franz , Stöckler Christiane , Bassler Markus , Pfeiffer Wolfgang , Kobelt Axel
Published: July 2018

Zusammenfassung. Theoretischer Hintergrund: In der medizinischen Rehabilitation besteht ein Bedarf an Interventionen zur Förderung von Arbeitsmotivation. Mental Contrasting with Implementation Intentions (MCII) hat sich als Methode zur Unterstützung von Zielverfolgung, -bindung und -erreichung etabliert. Die vorliegende Studie untersuchte die Frage: Kann MCII berufsbezogene Ziele fördern? Methode: Patient_innen der psychosomatischen Rehabilitation nahmen an einer berufsbezogenen MCII-Intervention teil (IG; n = 100). Die Kontrollgruppe (KG; n = 100) erhielt eine MBOR-Behandlung ohne MCII-Intervention. Verwendet wurden Fragebogen zu Symptomen, Behandlungszufriedenheit sowie Therapiezielen. Ergebnisse: Patient_innen der IG nannten im Vergleich zur KG etwa zweimal häufiger Ziele mit Berufsbezug (OR = 2.292, 95 % KI [1.049, 5.004]). Nach der Intervention schätzten Patient_innen die Wahrscheinlichkeit der Zielerreichung positiver ein und hatten häufiger einen Zielerreichungsplan. Sie waren zufriedener mit ihrem Behandlungsergebnis. Schlussfolgerungen: Durch MCII priorisierten Patient_innen berufsbezogene Ziele. Die Intervention stellt eine zeit- und kostenökonomische Methode dar, um die Motivation zur Rückkehr ins Erwerbsleben in den Fokus der Reha-Maßnahme zu rücken.
Author Correction: Breast-cancer-specific mortality in patients treated based on the 21-gene assay: a SEER population-based study
Authors: Petkov Valentina I , Miller Dave P , Howlader Nadia , Gliner Nathan , Howe Will , Schussler Nicola , Cronin Kathleen , Baehner Frederick L , Cress Rosemary , Deapen Dennis , Glaser Sally L , Hernandez Brenda Y , Lynch Charles F , Mueller Lloyd , Schwartz Ann G , Schwartz Stephen M , Stroup Antoinette , Sweeney Carol , Tucker Thomas C , Ward Kevin C , Wiggins Charles , Wu Xiao-Cheng , Penberthy Lynne , Shak Steven
Published: July 2018

In the original version of the published article, line three of the third paragraph of the methods stated “Excluding patients with micrometastatic disease, the 5-year BCSM for patients with Recurrence Score results <18 and 1–3 positive nodes (n = 2,617) was 1.3% (95% CI, 0.6–2.9%).” To improve clarity this statement has been replaced with “Excluding patients with micrometastatic disease, there were 2,617 patients with 1–3 positive nodes. Of these, 1,487 also had Recurrence Score results <18 with 5-year BCSM of 1.3% (95% CI, 0.6–2.9%).” The original version of the published article also contained an error in the second sentence of the Figure 2 legend describing the mutation status of the patient population examined. The sentence in the original published version of the article stated “Patients with HR+, HER2-positive, node-negative…” this has been changed to “Patients with HR+, HER2-negative, node-negative…”. This has been corrected in the PDF and HTML versions of this paper.
An Optimized Structure-Function Design Principle Underlies Efficient Signaling Dynamics in Neurons
Authors: Puppo Francesca , George Vivek , Silva Gabriel A.
Published: July 2018

Dynamic signaling on branching axons is critical for rapid and efficient communication between neurons in the brain. Efficient signaling in axon arbors depends on a trade-off between the time it takes action potentials to reach synaptic terminals (temporal cost) and the amount of cellular material associated with the wiring path length of the neuron’s morphology (material cost). However, where the balance between structural and dynamical considerations for achieving signaling efficiency is, and the design principle that neurons optimize to preserve this balance, is still elusive. In this work, we introduce a novel analysis that compares morphology and signaling dynamics in axonal networks to address this open problem. We show that in Basket cell neurons the design principle being optimized is the ratio between the refractory period of the membrane, and action potential latencies between the initial segment and the synaptic terminals. Our results suggest that the convoluted paths taken by axons reflect a design compensation by the neuron to slow down signaling latencies in order to optimize this ratio. Deviations in this ratio may result in a breakdown of signaling efficiency in the cell. These results pave the way to new approaches for investigating more complex neurophysiological phenomena that involve considerations of neuronal structure-function relationships.
Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem cells in a 3D Woven Scaffold
Authors: Persson Maria , Lehenkari Petri P. , Berglin Lena , Turunen Sanna , Finnilä Mikko A. J. , Risteli Juha , Skrifvars Mikael , Tuukkanen Juha
Published: July 2018

Fiber-based scaffolds produced by textile manufacturing technology offer versatile materials for tissue engineering applications since a wide range of crucial scaffold parameters, including porosity, pore size and interconnectivity, can be accurately controlled using 3D weaving. In this study, we developed a weavable, bioactive biodegradable composite fiber from poly (lactic acid) (PLA) and hydroxyapatite powder by melt spinning. Subsequently, scaffolds of these fibers were fabricated by 3D weaving. The differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs)in vitrowas studied on the 3D scaffolds and compared with differentiation on 2D substrates having the same material composition. Our data showed that the 3D woven scaffolds have a major impact on hMSCs proliferation and activation. The 3D architecture supports the differentiation of the hMSCs into osteoblast cells and enhances the production of mineralized bone matrix. The present study further confirms that a 3D scaffold promotes hMSCs differentiation into the osteoblast–lineage and bone mineralization.
Effect of Nitrogen Doping and Temperature on Mechanical Durability of Silicon Carbide Thin Films
Authors: Tomastik Jan , Ctvrtlik Radim , Ingr Tomas , Manak Jan , Opletalova Ariana
Published: July 2018

Amorphous silicon carbide (a-SiC) films are promising solution for functional coatings intended for harsh environment due to their superior combination of physical and chemical properties and high temperature stability. However, the structural applications are limited by its brittleness. The possible solution may be an introduction of nitrogen atoms into the SiC structure. The effect of structure and composition on tribo-mechanical properties of magnetron-sputtered a-SiCxNy thin films with various nitrogen content (0–40 at.%) and C/Si close to one deposited on silicon substrates were evaluated before and after exposure to high temperatures up to 1100 °C in air and vacuum. IR transmission spectroscopy revealed formation of multiple C-N bonds for the films with N content higher than 30 at.%. Improvement of the organization in the carbon phase with the increase of nitrogen content in the a-SiCN films was detected by Raman spectroscopy. Nanoindentation and scratch test point out on the beneficial effect of the nitrogen doping on the tribo-mechanical performance of a-SiCxNy coatings, especially for the annealed coatings. The improved fracture resistance of the SiCN films stems from the formation of triple C≡N bonds for the as deposited films and also by suppression of SiC clusters crystallization by incorporation of nitrogen atoms for annealed films. This together with higher susceptibility to oxidation of a-SiCN films impart them higher scratch and wear resistance in comparison to SiC films before as well as after the thermal exposure. The best tribo-mechanical performance in term of high hardness and sufficient level of ductility were observed for the a-Si0.32C0.32N0.36 film. The enhanced performance is preserved after the thermal exposure in air (up to 1100 °C) and vacuum (up to 900 °C) atmosphere. Annealing in oxidizing atmosphere has a beneficial effect in terms of tribological properties. Harder films with lower nitrogen content suffer from higher brittleness. FIB-SEM identified film-confined cracking as the initial failure event in SiC, while it was through-interface cracking for SiCN at higher loads. This points out on the higher fracture resistance of the SiCN films where higher strains are necessary for crack formation
A Requirement for Zic2 in the Regulation of Nodal Expression Underlies the Establishment of Left-Sided Identity
Authors: Dykes Iain M. , Szumska Dorota , Kuncheria Linta , Puliyadi Rathi , Chen Chiann-mun , Papanayotou Costis , Lockstone Helen , Dubourg Christèle , David Véronique , Schneider Jurgen E. , Keane Thomas M. , Adams David J. , Brown Steve D. M. , Mercier Sandra , Odent Sylvie , Collignon Jérôme , Bhattacharya Shoumo
Published: July 2018

ZIC2mutation is known to cause holoprosencephaly (HPE). A subset ofZIC2HPE probands harbour cardiovascular and visceral anomalies suggestive of laterality defects. 3D-imaging of novel mouseZic2mutants uncovers, in addition to HPE, laterality defects in lungs, heart, vasculature and viscera. A strong bias towards right isomerism indicates a failure to establish left identity in the lateral plate mesoderm (LPM), a phenotype that cannot be explained simply by the defective ciliogenesis previously noted in Zic2 mutants. Gene expression analysis showed that the left-determining NODAL-dependent signalling cascade fails to be activated in the LPM, and that the expression ofNodalat the node, which normally triggers this event, is itself defective in these embryos. Analysis of ChiP-seq data,in vitrotranscriptional assays and mutagenesis reveals a requirement for a low-affinity ZIC2 binding site for the activation of theNodalenhancer HBE, which is normally active in node precursor cells. These data show that ZIC2 is required for correctNodalexpression at the node and suggest a model in which ZIC2 acts at different levels to establish LR asymmetry, promoting both the production of the signal that induces left side identity and the morphogenesis of the cilia that bias its distribution.
Differentiation of Normal and Radioresistant Prostate Cancer Xenografts Using Magnetization Transfer-Prepared MRI
Authors: Lam Wilfred W. , Oakden Wendy , Murray Leedan , Klein Jonathan , Iorio Caterina , Screaton Robert A. , Koletar Margaret M. , Chu William , Liu Stanley K. , Stanisz Greg J.
Published: July 2018

The ability of MRI to differentiate between normal and radioresistant cancer was investigated in prostate tumour xenografts in mice. Specifically, the process of magnetization exchange between water and other molecules was studied. It was found that magnetization transfer from semisolid macromolecules (MT) and chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) combined were significantly different between groups (p < 0.01). Further, the T2 relaxation of the semisolid macromolecular pool (T2,B), a parameter specific to MT, was found to be significantly different (p < 0.01). Also significantly different were the rNOE contributions associated with methine groups at −0.9 ppm with a saturation B1 of 0.5 µT (p < 0.01) and with other aliphatic groups at −3.3 ppm with 0.5 and 2 µT (both p < 0.05). Independently, using a live-cell metabolic assay, normal cells were found to have a greater metabolic rate than radioresistant ones. Thus, MRI provides a novel, in vivo method to quantify the metabolic rate of tumours and predict their radiosensitivity.
Exploring pancreatic pathology in Plasmodium falciparum malaria patients
Authors: Glaharn Supattra , Punsawad Chuchard , Ward Stephen A. , Viriyavejakul Parnpen
Published: July 2018

Hypoglycaemia is an important complication of Plasmodium falciparum malaria infection, which can be lethal if not treated. A decrease in blood sugar (BS) level has been correlated with disease severity, parasitaemia and the use of certain antimalarial drugs. This study explored the relationship between pancreatic pathology, including the expressions of insulin and glucagon in the islets of Langerhans, and the BS levels in P. falciparum malaria patients. Pancreatic tissues from malaria patients were divided into three groups, namely those with BS < 40 mg/dl, BS = 40–120 mg/dl, and BS > 120 mg/dl. In P. falciparum malaria, pancreatic tissues showed numerous parasitised red blood cells (PRBCs) in the capillaries, oedema, acinar necrosis and the presence of inflammatory cells. The islet size and the expression of insulin were significantly increased in P. falciparum malaria patients with hypoglycaemia. In addition, insulin expression was positively correlated with islet size and negatively correlated with BS levels. This pioneer study documents an increase in insulin expression and an increase in islet size in hypoglycaemic patients with P. falciparum malaria. This could contribute to the pathogenesis of hypoglycaemia and provides evidence for the potential need to effectively manage the hypoglycaemia seen in malaria infection.
Solid-phase synthesis of peptides containing aminoadipic semialdehyde moiety and their cyclisations
Authors: Kijewska Monika , Waliczek Mateusz , Cal Marta , Jaremko Łukasz , Jaremko Mariusz , Król Maria , Kołodziej Marta , Lisowski Marek , Stefanowicz Piotr , Szewczuk Zbigniew
Published: July 2018

Pathological levels of oxidative stress (OS) have been implicated in many diseases including diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative diseases, inflammatory diseases, atherosclerosis, and cancer. Studies of oxidative stress are however complicated by the low concentration of oxidation products. To resolve this problem, we tested a new derivative of aminoadipic semialdehyde (Fmoc-Aea-OH) in the solid-phase synthesis of carbonylated peptides. We prepared a series of peptides with free and acetylated N-terminal amino groups using the Fmoc-Aea-OH reagent. LC-MS, ESI-MS, and MS/MS spectra confirmed the sequences of the modified peptides, although the LC-MS and ESI-MS spectra were dominated by signals corresponding to dehydration products. NMR studies of acetylated products revealed that the dominant product formed in this reaction contains a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyridine-2-carboxylic acid residue. Another side reaction in this system was the cleavage of the amide bond between the Aea residue and the amino acid moiety preceding it resulting in the formation of a side product with a six-membered ring at the N-terminus (2,3,4,5-tetrahydropyridine-2-carboxylic acid residue). We found that, depending on the peptide sequence, one of those side products is predominant. Our work suggests new methods for the solid-state synthesis of peptides containing unnatural amino acids.
Correction: Model molecules to classify CH⋯O hydrogen-bonds
Authors: Vibhute Amol M. , Priyakumar U. Deva , Ravi Arthi , Sureshan Kana M.
Published: July 2018

Correction for ‘Model molecules to classify CH⋯O hydrogen-bonds’ by Amol M. Vibhute et al., Chem. Commun., 2018, 54, 4629–4632.
Patchouli oil isolated from the leaves of Pogostemon cablin ameliorates ethanol-induced acute liver injury in rats via inhibition of oxidative stress and lipid accumulation
Authors: Huang Qiong-Hui , Wu Xue , Chen Xiao-Hong , Wu Jia-Zhen , Su Zi-Ren , Liang Jia-Li , Li Yu-Cui , Lai Xiao-Ping , Chen Jian-Nan , Liu Yu-Hong
Published: July 2018

Excessive alcohol consumption can cause serious hepatic injury which is associated with oxidative stress and fatty metabolic disturbance.
A fluorescence and UV/vis absorption dual-signaling probe with aggregation-induced emission characteristics for specific detection of cysteine
Authors: Li Ruru , Huang Xiaoyu , Lu Guolin , Feng Chun
Published: July 2018

A dual-signaling of fluorescence and UV/vis absorption modes for selective and quantitative detection of cysteine over homocysteine,N-acetyl-l-cysteine and glutathione is developed on the basis of aggregation-induced emission (AIE) effect.
Structure, dielectric, and piezoelectric properties of K0.5Na0.5NbO3-based lead-free ceramics
Authors: Dwivedi Sushmita , Pareek Tanvi , Kumar Sunil
Published: July 2018

Room temperature powder X-ray diffraction patterns of (1 – x)K0.5Na0.5NbO3–xBi(Zn0.5Ti0.5)O3 system.
Etiology and Prognosis of Severe Ventriculomegaly Diagnosed at Late Gestation
Authors: Dall’Asta Andrea , van Oostrum Noortje , Basheer Sheikh , Paramasivam Gowrishankar , Ghi Tullio , Galli Letizia , Groenenberg Irene , Tangi Amanda , Accorsi Patrizia , Echevarria Monica , Angeles Rodríguez Perez Maria , Albaiges Baiget Gerard , Prefumo Federico , Frusca Tiziana , Go Attie , Lees Christoph
Published: July 2018

Objectives We sought to assess the causes and outcomes of severe VM diagnosed de novo after 24 weeks of gestation where a mid-trimester anomaly scan was described as normal.

Methods Multicenter retrospective study of five European fetal medicine centers. The inclusion criteria were normal anatomy at the mid-trimester scan, uni/bilateral finding of posterior ventricle measuring ≥ 15 mm after 24 weeks with neonatal and postnatal pediatric and/or neurological assessment data.

Results Of 74 potentially eligible cases, 10 underwent termination, the outcome was missing in 19 cases and there was 1 neonatal death. Therefore, 44 formed the study cohort with a median gestation at diagnosis of 32 + 0 weeks (25 + 6 – 40 + 5). VM was unilateral in five cases. Agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC) and grade III/IV intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) accounted for 14 cases each. ACC was isolated in 9 fetuses. Obstructive abnormalities included 5 arachnoid and 1 cavum velum interpositum cyst. Four fetuses had an associated suspected or confirmed genetic condition, 2 congenital infections, 1 abnormal cortical development and the etiology was unknown in 3/44. Postnatal assessment at median 20 months (3 – 96) showed 22/44 (50 %) normal, 7 (16 %) mildly abnormal and 15 (34 %) severely abnormal neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Conclusion One half of babies with severe VM diagnosed after 24 weeks have normal infant outcome with ACC and IVH representing the most common causes. Etiology is the most important factor affecting the prognosis of fetuses with severe VM diagnosed at late gestation.
Ultrasound-Assisted Tumor Surgery in Breast Cancer – A Prospective, Randomized, Single-Center Study (MAC 001)
Authors: Hoffmann Jürgen , Marx Mario , Hengstmann Andreas , Seeger Harald , Oberlechner Ernst , Helms Gisela , Röhm Carmen , Ott Claudia , Wallwiener Diethelm , Stäbler Annette , Wiesinger Benjamin , Hartkopf Andreas D. , Brucker Sara Y. , Hahn Markus
Published: July 2018

Purpose Breast-conserving therapy is associated with a risk of tumor-involved margins. For intraoperative orientation, non- palpable or indistinctly palpable lesions are wire-marked prior to surgery. Ultrasound-guided surgery has the potential to reduce the number of tumor-involved margins. In the MAC 001 trial we evaluated ultrasound-guided breast-conserving surgery compared to wire-guided surgery with regard to free tumor margins, duration of surgery and resection volume.

Materials and Methods In this randomized, prospective, single-center controlled trial, patients with ductal invasive breast cancer were recruited for either ultrasound-guided or wire localization surgery. Primary outcomes were tumor-free resection margins, the reoperation rate and the resection volume in each group. The results were analyzed by intention to treat. The trial was registered under ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02222675.

Results 56 patients were assessed, and 47 patients were evaluated in the trial. 93 % (25/27) of the patients in the ultrasound arm had an R0 reoperation compared to 65 % (13/20) in the wire localization control arm. This result was statistically significant (p = 0.026). No statistical difference was found for the resection volume or the duration of surgery between the two arms. No major complication was seen in either arm.

Conclusion Ultrasound-assisted breast surgery significantly increases the possibility of tumor-free margins and therefore reduces the risk of reoperations. Breast surgeons should be trained in ultrasound and ultrasound should be available in every breast surgery operating room.
The Relationship between the Etiology of Profound Prelingual Sensorineural Hearing Loss and the Results of Vestibular-Evoked Myogenic Potentials
Authors: Takeuti Alice , Correa Ana , Leao Elisa , Favero Mariana
Published: July 2018

Introduction Cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMPs) are biphasic, short latency potentials, which represent the inhibition of the contraction of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) mediated by the saccule, the inferior vestibular nerve, the vestibular nuclei and the medial vestibular spinal tract.

Objective To evaluate the response of cVEMPs in individuals with profound prelingual bilateral cochlear hearing loss.

Methods A prospective case-control study. A total of 64 volunteers, divided into a study group (31 patients with profound prelingual sensorineural hearing loss) and a control group (33 subjects matched for age and gender with psychoacoustic thresholds of ≤ 25 dB HL between 500 and 8,000 Hz) were submitted to the cVEMP exam. The causes of hearing loss were grouped by etiology and the involved period.

Results The subjects of the study group are more likely to present changes in cVEMPs compared to the control group (35.5% versus 6.1% respectively; p = 0.003), with an odds ratio (OR) of 8.52 (p = 0.009). It means that they had 8.52-fold higher propensity of presenting altered cVEMP results. There were no statistically significant differences between the latencies, the interamplitude and the asymmetry index. Regarding the etiology, there was a statistically significant difference when the cause was infectious, with an OR of 15.50 (p = 0.005), and when the impairment occurred in the prenatal period, with an OR of 9.86 (p = 0.009).

Conclusion The present study showed abnormalities in the sacculocolic pathway in a considerable portion of individuals with profound prelingual sensorineural hearing loss due to infectious and congenital causes, as revealed by the cVEMP results.
Associations of Factor VIII and von Willebrand Factor with Age, Race, Sex, and Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis
Authors: Conlan Maureen G , Folsom Aaron R , Finch Andrea , Davis C E , Sorlie Paul , Marcucci Gretchen , Wu Kenneth K ,   For the ARIC Study Investigators
Published: July 2018

Several coagulation proteins have been implicated as possible risk factors for the development of atherosclerotic diseases, among which are factor VIII and von Willebrand factor. As part of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study, a prospective study designed to assess risk factors for the development of atherosclerotic diseases, baseline measurements of factor VIII and von Willebrand factor (vWF) were performed to determine their relationship to the development of atherosclerosis. We herein report the associations of factor VIII and vWF with constitutional, lifestyle, and biochemical factors. Factor VIII and vWF were strongly correlated with each other (r = 0.73), and, therefore, had similar associations with risk factors. Mean levels of both factors were higher in women than in men, in blacks than in whites, and increased with age. In univariate analysis, both were positively associated with diabetes, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, serum insulin, and plasma triglycerides. Both were negatively associated with alcohol intake, educational level, physical activity (with some exceptions), and HDL-cholesterol. No correlations were observed between factor VIII or vWF and plasma LDL-cholesterol or lipoprotein(a). Although factor VIII was negatively associated with smoking in both sexes, vWF was not associated with smoking status. Most of these associations were confirmed in multivariate analysis. The strongest associations observed were of factor VIII and vWF with race and diabetes. In multivariate analysis, blacks had factor VIII and vWF levels 15 to 18 percentage points higher than whites, and diabetics had factor VIII and vWF levels 11 to 18 percentage points higher than non-diabetics. These associations must be taken into account when analyzing the possible role of factor VIII and vWF in the development of atherosclerotic diseases.
Treatment of Severe Venous Thrombo-Embolism with Intravenous Hirudin (HBW 023): An Open Pilot Study
Authors: Parent Florence , Bridey Françoise , Dreyfus Marie , Musset Dominique , Grimon Gilles , Duroux Pierre , Meyer Dominique , Simonneau Gérald
Published: July 2018

Recombinant Hirudin (rH) is an anticoagulant agent with a specific antithrombin activity independent of antithrombin III. We report the results of the first open pilot study on the curative treatment of acute venous thrombo-embolism (VTE) with rH (HBW 023) in ten patients. The dose of rH tested was 0.07 mg/kg (i.v. bolus) followed by 0.05 mg kg-1 h-1 (i.v. infusion) for 5 days, without activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) adjustment. Within the trial, no death, VTE recurrence or major bleeding was observed; lung scan pulmonary vascular obstruction improved from 44 to 37%, whereas the venographic Marder score was unchanged; APTT ratio ranged between 1.2 and 2.8. The dose of rH assessed in this study seems to be safe and efficient in the treatment of acute VTE.