bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FLT3 inhibitors in acute myeloid leukemia: Choosing the best when the optimal does not exist
Authors: Assi Rita , Ravandi Farhad
Published: December 2017

Despite significant advances in deciphering the molecular and cytogenetic pathways governing acute myeloid leukemia, improvements in treatment strategies and clinical outcomes have been limited. The discovery of FLT3 pathway and its potential role in leukemogenesis has generated excitement in the field and has provided a potential target for drug development. Despite setbacks encountered with first‐generation inhibitors, we are witnessing an outbreak of novel agents with potent activity and improved pharmacodynamics which continue to generate promising results. The disease, however, remains a challenge to both patients and physicians with rapid emergence of resistance and subsequent treatment failure. Multiple unanswered questions remain as to which are the optimal FLT3‐inhibitors and which strategies and combinations are likely to overcome resistance. This review revisits the development of FLT3‐inhibitors, the pathways incriminated in their failure and summarizes available molecularly‐designed strategies to design better clinical trials.
Accelerating Membrane‐based CO2 Separation by Soluble Nanoporous Polymer Networks Produced by Mechanochemical Oxidative Coupling
Authors: Zhu Xiang , Hua Yinying , Tian Chengcheng , Abney Carter W. , Zhang Peng , Jin Tian , Liu Gongping , Browning Katie L. , Sacci Robert L. , Veith Gabriel M. , Zhou Hong‐Cai , Jin Wanqin , Dai Sheng
Published: December 2017

Achieving homogeneous dispersion of nanoporous fillers within membrane architectures remains a great challenge for mixed‐matrix membrane (MMMs) technology. Imparting solution processability of nanoporous materials would help advance the development of MMMs for membrane‐based gas separations. A mechanochemically assisted oxidative coupling polymerization strategy was used to create a new family of soluble nanoporous polymer networks. The solid‐state ball‐milling method affords inherent molecular weight control over polymer growth and therefore provides unexpected solubility for the resulting nanoporous frameworks. MMM‐based CO2/CH4 separation performance was significantly accelerated by these new soluble fillers. We anticipate this facile method will facilitate new possibilities for the rational design and synthesis of soluble nanoporous polymer networks and promote their applications in membrane‐based gas separations.
A Terminal Fluoride Ligand Generates Axial Magnetic Anisotropy in Dysprosium Complexes
Authors: Norel Lucie , Darago Lucy E. , Le Guennic Boris , Chakarawet Khetpakorn , Gonzalez Miguel I. , Olshansky Jacob H. , Rigaut Stéphane , Long Jeffrey R.
Published: December 2017

The first dysprosium complexes with a terminal fluoride ligand are obtained as air‐stable compounds. The strong, highly electrostatic dysprosium–fluoride bond generates a large axial crystal‐field splitting of the J=15/2 ground state, as evidenced by high‐resolution luminescence spectroscopy and correlated with the single‐molecule magnet behavior through experimental magnetic susceptibility data and ab initio calculations.
Photochemically and Thermally Driven Full‐Color Reflection in a Self‐Organized Helical Superstructure Enabled by a Halogen‐Bonded Chiral Molecular Switch
Authors: Wang Hao , Bisoyi Hari Krishna , Wang Ling , Urbas Augustine M. , Bunning Timothy J. , Li Quan
Published: December 2017

Supramolecular approaches toward the fabrication of functional materials and systems have been an enabling endeavor. Recently, halogen bonding has been harnessed as a promising supramolecular tool. Herein we report the synthesis and characterization of a novel halogen‐bonded light‐driven axially chiral molecular switch. The photoactive halogen‐bonded chiral switch is able to induce a self‐organized, tunable helical superstructure, that is, cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC), when doped into an achiral liquid crystal (LC) host. The halogen‐bonded switch as a chiral dopant has a high helical twisting power (HTP) and shows a large change of its HTP upon photoisomerization. This light‐driven dynamic modulation enables reversible selective reflection color tuning across the entire visible spectrum. The chiral switch also displays a temperature‐dependent HTP change that enables thermally driven red, green, and blue (RGB) reflection colors in the self‐organized helical superstructure.
Methanol aided synthesis of PdNPs decorated on montmorillonite K 10 and its implication in Suzuki Miyaura type cross coupling reaction under base free condition
Authors: Mahanta Abhijit , Raul Prasanta Kumar , Saikia Sanjib , Bora Utpal , Thakur Ashim Jyoti
Published: December 2017

An efficient catalyst PdNPs decorated on Montmorillonite K 10 is prepared by simply stirring Pd(OAc)2 in methanol at room temperature without using any external reducing agent. The catalyst shows excellent activity for Suzuki Miyaura type cross coupling reaction between aryl diazonium salt and arylboronic acid under ligand and base free reaction conditions within short reaction time. The main advantage of this methodology is the easy synthesis of heterogeneous PdNPs @ Mont K 10 catalyst in a mild condition without using any reducing agent or additive and the catalyst is very efficient for biaryl synthesis. The catalyst is well characterized by SEM, EDX, TEM, BET, Powder XRD, TGA, DSC etc. The reaction pathway is greener with aqueous reaction medium, base free reaction condition, room temperature and reusable heterogeneous catalyst.
Influence of processing conditions on mechanical properties of blends of styrenic block copolymer and poly(phenylene oxide): Miscibility and microdomain size
Authors: Yu Xiangtian , Wang Xiang , Zhang Aiming , Zhou Tao
Published: December 2017

The effect of processing conditions on mechanical properties of poly(styrene‐b‐ethylene‐co‐butylene‐b‐styrene) (SEBS) and poly(2,6‐dimethy‐1,4‐phenylene oxide) (PPO) blends were investigated. Differential scanning calorimetry and small angle X‐ray scattering were used to study the miscibility and d‐spacing of the blends. The processing temperature plays an important role in mechanical properties. PPO works as filler and weakens mechanical properties when the processing temperature is below 230 °C. As the processing temperature exceeds 230 °C, PPO incorporates into the PS blocks of SEBS and the performance enhances with increasing temperature due to a better miscibility. The strong shear stress is beneficial to the dispersion of PPO into SEBS matrix and more PPO incorporates into PS blocks during melt processing, resulting in the better mechanical properties and a larger d‐spacing. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46123.
Hierarchical structure and properties of rigid PVC foam crosslinked by the reaction between anhydride and diisocyanate
Authors: Jiang Zhiwei , Du Zhonghui , Xue Jian , Liu Wenbin , Li Minggang , Tang Tao
Published: December 2017

Rigid crosslinked poly(vinyl chloride) (c‐PVC) foams by forming semi‐interpenetrating network (SIPN) structure via the reaction of phthalic anhydride (PA) and diisocyanate were prepared. The influence of PA on hierarchical structure and mechanical properties of c‐PVC foam was studied. The Fourier transform infrared spectrometer results showed that the presence of PA resulted in the formation of imide structure in the SIPN of obtained c‐PVC foams, which introduced a structural defect of SIPN. Thus, the residue (gel) from tetrahydrofuran extraction of the foams decreased with the increase of PA content. Dynamic thermal analysis showed the presence of three aggregation state structures in the c‐PVC foams, depending on the loading of PA. The addition of PA in the formulations affected cellular structure and mechanical properties of the obtained foams. Furthermore, the influence of chemical environment of anhydride compounds on the formation of imide structure in the crosslinking network of c‐PVC foams was discussed. A strategy for reducing defect of crosslinking network and improving mechanical properties was put forward. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46141.
Reusable magnetic nanocluster coated with poly(acrylic acid) and its adsorption with an antibody and an antigen
Authors: Meerod Siraprapa , Deepuppha Nunthiya , Rutnakornpituk Boonjira , Rutnakornpituk Metha
Published: December 2017

The synthesis of negatively charged magnetite nanoclusters grafted with poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and their application as reusable nanosupports for adsorption with antibodies and antigens are presented in this article. They were facilely prepared via the free‐radical polymerization of PAA in the presence of functionalized magnetite nanoparticles to obtain highly negative charged nanoclusters with a high magnetic responsiveness and good dispersibility and stability in water. According to transmission electron microscopy, the sizes of the nanoclusters ranged between 200 and 500 nm, without large aggregation visually observed in water. The hydrodynamic size of the nanocluster consistently increased with increasing pH of the dispersion; this indicated its pH‐responsive properties, which was due to the repulsion of the anionic carboxylate groups in the structure. This nanocluster was successfully used as an efficient and reusable support for adsorption with anti–horseradish peroxidase antibody. It preserved higher than a 97% adsorption ability of the antibody after eight reuse cycles; this signified the potential of this novel nanocluster as a reusable support in the magnetic separation applications of other bioentities. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46160.
Influence of surface properties on the dip coating behavior of hollow fiber membranes
Authors: Jesswein Isabel , Uebele Sarah , Dieterich Alina , Keller Silke , Hirth Thomas , Schiestel Thomas
Published: December 2017

Coating processes have become an important fabrication step in membrane production, either to form a separation layer on a porous substrate or to tune specific properties. The coating procedure depends to a large extent on the membrane properties which substantially impedes a prediction of the coating thickness. To give an insight into the coating properties of various hollow fiber membranes, a selection of membranes with different pore sizes was coated with aqueous poly(vinyl alcohol) solutions at various coating velocities. It was found that material properties and pore sizes of the membranes have great influence on coating thicknesses. An intrusion of coating material into the membrane structure was determined with increasing pore size. Pure intrusion without formation of a dense surface layer took place when using a membrane with a mean pore size of ca. 500 nm. Coating results were correlated with the theoretical LLD law and for some membranes the coating thickness can be predicted quite well by the LLD law and its enhancements. When a significant amount of coating material penetrated into the membrane structure the LLD law loses its validity. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46163.
Review: Chikungunya Arthritis: Implications of Acute and Chronic Inflammation Mechanisms on Disease Management
Authors: Zaid Ali , Gérardin Patrick , Taylor Adam , Mostafavi Helen , Malvy Denis , Mahalingam Suresh
Published: December 2017

In the past decade, arboviruses—arthropod‐borne viruses—have been the focus of public health institutions worldwide following a spate of devastating outbreaks. Chikungunya virus, an arbovirus that belongs to the alphavirus genus, is a reemerging arthritogenic virus that has caused explosive outbreaks since 2006, notably on Réunion Island, and more recently in the Caribbean, South America, India, and Southeast Asia. The severity of arthritic disease caused by chikungunya virus has prompted public health authorities in affected countries to develop specific guidelines to tackle this pathogen. Chikungunya virus disease manifests first as an acute stage of severe joint inflammation and febrile illness, which later progresses to a chronic stage, during which patients may experience debilitating and persisting articular pain for extended periods. This review aims to provide a broad perspective on current knowledge of chikungunya virus pathogenesis by identifying key clinical and experimental studies that have contributed to our understanding of chikungunya virus to date. In addition, the review explores the practical aspects of treatment and management of both acute and chronic chikungunya virus based on clinical experience during chikungunya virus outbreaks. Finally, recent findings on potential therapeutic solutions—from antiviral agents to immunomodulators—are reviewed to provide both viral immunologists and clinical rheumatologists with a balanced perspective on the nature of a reemerging arboviral disease of significant public health concern, and insight into future therapeutic approaches to better address the treatment and management of chikungunya virus.
Hypomethylation of CYP2E1 and DUSP22 Promoters Associated With Disease Activity and Erosive Disease Among Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Mok Amanda , Rhead Brooke , Holingue Calliope , Shao Xiaorong , Quach Hong L. , Quach Diana , Sinclair Elizabeth , Graf Jonathan , Imboden John , Link Thomas , Harrison Ruby , Chernitskiy Vladimir , Barcellos Lisa F. , Criswell Lindsey A.
Published: December 2017

Objective

Epigenetic modifications have previously been associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In this study, we aimed to determine whether differential DNA methylation in peripheral blood cell subpopulations is associated with any of 4 clinical outcomes among RA patients.

Methods

Peripheral blood samples were obtained from 63 patients in the University of California, San Francisco RA cohort (all satisfied the American College of Rheumatology classification criteria; 57 were seropositive for rheumatoid factor and/or anti‐cyclic citrullinated protein). Fluorescence‐activated cell sorting was used to separate the cells into 4 immune cell subpopulations (CD14+ monocytes, CD19+ B cells, CD4+ naive T cells, and CD4+ memory T cells) per individual, and 229 epigenome‐wide DNA methylation profiles were generated using Illumina HumanMethylation450 BeadChips. Differentially methylated positions and regions associated with the Clinical Disease Activity Index score, erosive disease, RA Articular Damage score, Sharp score, medication at time of blood draw, smoking status, and disease duration were identified using robust regression models and empirical Bayes variance estimators.

Results

Differential methylation of CpG sites associated with clinical outcomes was observed in all 4 cell types. Hypomethylated regions in the CYP2E1 and DUSP22 gene promoters were associated with active and erosive disease, respectively. Pathway analyses suggested that the biologic mechanisms underlying each clinical outcome are cell type–specific. Evidence of independent effects on DNA methylation from smoking, medication use, and disease duration were also identified.

Conclusion

Methylation signatures specific to RA clinical outcomes may have utility as biomarkers or predictors of exposure, disease progression, and disease severity.
Spendthrifts and Tightwads in Childhood: Feelings about Spending Predict Children's Financial Decision Making
Authors: Smith Craig E. , Echelbarger Margaret , Gelman Susan A. , Rick Scott I.
Published: December 2017

Adults differ in the extent to which they find spending money to be distressing; “tightwads” find spending money painful, and “spendthrifts” do not find spending painful enough. This affective dimension has been reliably measured in adults and predicts a variety of important financial behaviors and outcomes (e.g., saving behavior and credit scores). Although children's financial behavior has also received attention, feelings about spending have not been studied in children, as they have in adults. We measured the spendthrift–tightwad (ST–TW) construct in children for the first time, with a sample of 5‐ to 10‐year‐old children (N = 225). Children across the entire age range were able to reliably report on their affective responses to spending and saving, and children's ST–TW scores were related to parent reports of children's temperament and financial behavior. Further, children's ST–TW scores were predictive of whether they chose to save or spend money in the lab, even after controlling for age and how much they liked the offered items. Our novel findings—that children's feelings about spending and saving can be measured from an early age and relate to their behavior with money—are discussed with regard to theoretical and practical implications. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acupuncture in the treatment of fatigue in Parkinson's disease: A pilot, randomized, controlled, study
Authors: Kong Keng H. , Ng Hwee L. , Li Wei , Ng Dora W. , Tan Siang I. , Tay Kay Y. , Au Wing L. , Tan Louis C. S.
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Fatigue is a common and disabling problem in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), and there is currently no satisfactory treatment. As acupuncture has been reported to be effective in fatigue related to other conditions, we sought to evaluate its efficacy in PD.

Methods

This was a single center, randomized, sham‐controlled study. Forty PD patients with moderately severe fatigue were randomized to receive 5 weeks of biweekly real or sham acupuncture. The primary outcome was change on the General Fatigue score of the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI‐GF) at 5 weeks. Secondary outcomes included MFI‐Total score, Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Motor score (UPDRS Motor), Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire‐39 (PDQ 39), Geriatrics Depression Scale (GDS), and Epworth Sleepiness Scale ESS). All outcome measures were evaluated at baseline, 5 and 9 weeks.

Results

Both groups showed significant improvements in MFI‐GF and MFI‐Total scores at 5 and 9 weeks, but there were no significant between‐group differences. There were no improvements from baseline for PDQ 39, GDS, and ESS. Although improvements were noted for the UPDRS Motor score in the real acupuncture group, no between‐group difference could be demonstrated.

Conclusions

Both real and sham acupuncture are equally effective in improving PD‐related fatigue, and it is likely that this is due to nonspecific or placebo effects.
Prognostic Circulating MicroRNA Biomarkers in Early‐Stage Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Role for miR‐150
Authors: Wiemer Erik A.C.
Published: December 2017

Circulating microRNA biomarkers can be indicators of early‐stage non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) but may also hold prognostic value. The ability to predict prognosis of early‐stage NSCLC is important, as it may potentially impact patient outcome. Studies to define these prognostic microRNA biomarkers are urgently needed. Also, insight into the biological significance of the microRNA biomarker in the cancer cell—and within the tumor—may reveal novel and therapeutically interesting signaling networks.
Comparing fishers’ and scientific estimates of size at maturity and maximum body size as indicators for overfishing
Authors: Mclean Elizabeth L. , Forrester Graham E.
Published: December 2017

We tested whether fishers’ local ecological knowledge (LEK) of two fish life‐history parameters, size at maturity (SAM) at maximum body size (MS), was comparable to scientific estimates (SEK) of the same parameters, and whether LEK influenced fishers’ perceptions of sustainability. Local ecological knowledge was documented for 82 fishers from a small‐scale fishery in Samaná Bay, Dominican Republic, whereas SEK was compiled from the scientific literature. Size at maturity estimates derived from LEK and SEK overlapped for most of the 15 commonly harvested species (10 of 15). In contrast, fishers’ maximum size estimates were usually lower than (eight species), or overlapped with (five species) scientific estimates. Fishers’ size‐based estimates of catch composition indicate greater potential for overfishing than estimates based on SEK. Fishers’ estimates of size at capture relative to size at maturity suggest routine inclusion of juveniles in the catch (9 of 15 species), and fishers’ estimates suggest that harvested fish are substantially smaller than maximum body size for most species (11 of 15 species). Scientific estimates also suggest that harvested fish are generally smaller than maximum body size (13 of 15), but suggest that the catch is dominated by adults for most species (9 of 15 species), and that juveniles are present in the catch for fewer species (6 of 15). Most Samaná fishers characterized the current state of their fishery as poor (73%) and as having changed for the worse over the past 20 yr (60%). Fishers stated that concern about overfishing, catching small fish, and catching immature fish contributed to these perceptions, indicating a possible influence of catch‐size composition on their perceptions. Future work should test this link more explicitly because we found no evidence that the minority of fishers with more positive perceptions of their fishery reported systematically different estimates of catch‐size composition than those with the more negative majority view. Although fishers’ and scientific estimates of size at maturity and maximum size parameters sometimes differed, the fact that fishers make routine quantitative assessments of maturity and body size suggests potential for future collaborative monitoring efforts to generate estimates usable by scientists and meaningful to fishers.
Gut microbiome differences between metformin‐ and liraglutide‐treated T2DM subjects
Authors: Wang Zhang , Saha Somdutta , Van Horn Stephanie , Thomas Elizabeth , Traini Christopher , Sathe Ganesh , Rajpal Deepak K. , Brown James R.
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Metformin and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) agonists are widely used for treating type two diabetes mellitus (T2DM). While recent studies suggest these drugs might modify the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) microbiome, further confirmation is required from human clinical trials.

Materials and methods

Here, we compare, in patients with T2DM, the effects of metformin (n = 18 subjects) and liraglutide (n = 19), a GLP‐1 agonist, on their GIT microbiomes over a 42 day period (n = 74 samples) using 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing.

Results

We found that these drugs had markedly different effects on the microbiome composition. At both baseline and Day 42, subjects taking metformin had a significant increase (Baseline adj. P = .038, Day 42 adj. P = .041) in the relative abundance of the bacterial genus Sutterella, whereas liraglutide dosing is associated with a significant increase (Baseline adj. P = .048, Day 42 adj. P = .003) in the genus Akkermansia, a GIT bacteria positively associated with gut barrier homoeostasis. Bacteroides and Akkermansia relative abundances were also significantly associated with duration of subject diabetes (adj P < .05). Specifically, there was a significantly higher abundance of Akkermansia in subjects with short and medium durations than those with long duration of diabetes.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this is the first report of GLP‐1 agonist‐associated changes in the human microbiome and its differentiating effects to metformin. Our study suggests that modulation of the GIT microbiome is a potentially important component in the mechanism of action of these drugs.
Electrochemically Generated Recognition Sites in Self‐doped Polyaniline Modified Electrodes for Voltammetric and Potentiometric Determination of Copper(II) Ion
Authors: Mohammadabadi Saba Zamani , Zanganeh Ali Reza
Published: December 2017

Chemical recognition elements for copper(II) ion have been generated in electrodes modified with poly(aniline‐co‐metanilic acid), P(An‐co‐MA), membrane and the resulting electrodes were used as selective sensors for voltammetric and potentiometric determination of this ion in an extended pH range. The P(An‐co‐MA) membrane was electrodeposited from aqueous mixed monomer solutions of An and MA, without the presence of a supporting electrolyte. For generating the recognition elements, P(An‐co‐MA) modified electrodes were subjected to several consecutive reduction/oxidation potential steps in copper(II) ion solution. It seems that during these potential steps, the receptor sites of the membrane are adjusted to the size, complexing property and hard/soft nature of copper(II) ion. This electrochemically mediated templating process, provided a selective sensor for determination of copper(II) ion. The results of preconcentration/differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry, indicated analytical relation between the peak current and concentration of copper(II) from 1.0×10−9 to 1.0×10−4 M. The interference effect of various metal ions was explored and it was found that only mercury and silver ions show a considerable interference. The sensor exhibited selective potentiometric response for copper(II) over a wide concentration range (1.0×10−8 to 1.0×10−3 M) with a Nernstian slope of 27.9±0.3 mV per decade of copper(II) ion activity.
Sodium fluoride disturbs DNA methylation of NNAT and declines oocyte quality by impairing glucose transport in porcine oocytes
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Nie Zheng‐Wen , Gao Ying‐Ying , Chen Li , Yin Shu‐Yuan , Zhang Xia , Hao Cuifang , Miao Yi‐Liang
Published: December 2017

Sodium fluoride (NaF) is used as a medicine to prevent tooth decay; however, excessive NaF could cause a pathological damage to the health. Recent studies showed that NaF impaired mouse oocyte maturation, included of abnormal spindle configuration, actin cap formation, cortical granule‐free domain formation, and the following development after fertilization. However, few studies used large animals as models to study the toxicology of NaF on oocytes maturation. We proposed a hypothesis that NaF would affect the nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation of porcine oocytes and DNA methylation pattern of imprinted genes in oocytes. Our results showed that NaF affected cumulus expansion, polar body emission, spindle morphology, cortical granule distribution, early apoptosis, and the following development after parthenogenetic activation during porcine oocyte maturation. Moreover, NaF increased the DNA methylation of NNAT and decreased its expression, which disturbed the glucose transport in oocytes. These results suggest that NaF impairs the porcine oocytes maturation epigenetically, which provides a new toxicological mechanism of NaF on the oocyte maturation. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 59:223–233, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Numerical prediction of mass loss rate of expanded polystyrene (EPS) used for external thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS) in cone calorimeter
Authors: Zhou Biao , Yoshioka Hideki , Noguchi Takafumi , Ando Tatsuo
Published: December 2017

External thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS) consisting of insulation core and decorative surface materials are quite common in new construction and refurbishment buildings. Expanded polystyrene (EPS) ETICS are widely used. EPS ETICS consist of 3 distinct layers of varying composition and physical structure. The mass loss rate (MLR) and heat release rate play an important role in the evaluation of material reaction‐to‐fire performance. In the study described in this paper, 2 different numerical simulation tools, Fire Dynamic Simulator (FDS 6.5) and ThermaKin2D, were investigated with respect to their capability to predict the MLR of EPS ETICS products exposed to different fire conditions. The materials were characterised in order to provide suitable input parameters for the models. With accurate input parameters, the mean error between the predicted curve and the experimental MLR curve was calculated as approximately 16% for heat fluxes 30 and 50 kW/m2. The discrepancies between predicted and measured results are ascribed to the flame flux, which is not well modelled. It is found that the flame flux accounts for 15% of external heat flux in FDS 6.5 and for 18.0% of external heat flux in ThermaKin2D.
Affected astrocytes in the spinal cord of the leukodystrophy vanishing white matter
Authors: Leferink Prisca S. , Breeuwsma Nicole , Bugiani Marianna , van der Knaap Marjo S. , Heine Vivi M.
Published: December 2017

Leukodystrophies are often devastating diseases, presented with progressive clinical signs as spasticity, ataxia and cognitive decline, and lack proper treatment options. New therapy strategies for leukodystrophies mostly focus on oligodendrocyte replacement to rescue lack of myelin in the brain, even though disease pathology also often involves other glial cells and the spinal cord. In this study we investigated spinal cord pathology in a mouse model for Vanishing White Matter disease (VWM) and show that astrocytes in the white matter are severely affected. Astrocyte pathology starts postnatally in the sensory tracts, followed by changes in the astrocytic populations in the motor tracts. Studies in post‐mortem tissue of two VWM patients, a 13‐year‐old boy and a 6‐year‐old girl, confirmed astrocyte abnormalities in the spinal cord. For proper development of new treatment options for VWM and, possibly, other leukodystrophies, future studies should investigate spinal cord involvement.
Glial lipid droplets and neurodegeneration in a Drosophila model of complex I deficiency
Authors: Cabirol‐Pol Marie‐Jeanne , Khalil Bilal , Rival Thomas , Faivre‐Sarrailh Catherine , Besson Marie Thérèse
Published: December 2017

Mitochondrial defects associated with respiratory chain complex I deficiency lead to heterogeneous fatal syndromes. While the role of NDUFS8, an essential subunit of the core assembly of the complex I, is established in mitochondrial diseases, the mechanisms underlying neuropathology are poorly understood. We developed a Drosophila model of NDUFS8 deficiency by knocking down the expression of its fly homologue in neurons or in glial cells. Downregulating ND23 in neurons resulted in shortened lifespan, and decreased locomotion. Although total brain ATP levels were decreased, histological analysis did not reveal any signs of neurodegeneration except for photoreceptors of the retina. Interestingly, ND23 deficiency‐associated phenotypes were rescued by overexpressing the glucose transporter hGluT3 demonstrating that boosting glucose metabolism in neurons was sufficient to bypass altered mitochondrial functions and to confer neuroprotection. We then analyzed the consequences of ND23 knockdown in glial cells. In contrast to neuronal knockdown, loss of ND23 in glia did not lead to significant behavioral defects nor to reduced lifespan, but induced brain degeneration, as visualized by numerous vacuoles found all over the nervous tissue. This phenotype was accompanied by the massive accumulation of lipid droplets at the cortex‐neuropile boundaries, suggesting an alteration of lipid metabolism in glia. These results demonstrate that complex I deficiency triggers metabolic alterations both in neurons and glial cells which may contribute to the neuropathology.
Leiomyosarcoma of the head and neck: A 17‐year single institution experience and review of the National Cancer Data Base
Authors: Workman Alan D. , Farquhar Douglas R. , Brody Robert M. , Parasher Arjun K. , Carey Ryan M. , Purkey Michael T. , Nagda Danish A. , Brooks John S. , Hartner Lee P. , Brant Jason A. , Newman Jason G.
Published: December 2017

Background

Leiomyosarcoma is a rare neoplasm of the head and neck. The purpose of this study was to present our single‐institution case series of head and neck leiomyosarcoma and a review of cases in the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB).

Methods

Patients with head and neck leiomyosarcoma at the University of Pennsylvania and in the NCDB were identified. Demographic characteristics, tumor factors, treatment paradigms, and outcomes were evaluated for prognostic significance.

Results

Nine patients with head and neck leiomyosarcoma from the institution were identified; a majority had high‐grade disease and cutaneous leiomyosarcoma, with a 5‐year survival rate of 50%. Two hundred fifty‐nine patients with leiomyosarcoma were found in the NCDB; macroscopic positive margins and high‐grade disease were associated with poor prognosis (P < .01), and positive surgical margins were related to adjuvant radiation (P < .001).

Conclusion

Head and neck leiomyosarcoma presents at a high grade and is preferentially treated with surgery. Several demographic and tumor‐specific factors are associated with outcomes and prognosis.
Tobacco smoking between immigrants and non‐immigrants in Australia: A longitudinal investigation of the effect of nativity, duration of residence and age at arrival
Authors: Joshi Suresh , Jatrana Santosh , Paradies Yin
Published: December 2017

Issue addressed

Earlier research evidence suggests that there is a difference and over time change in the prevalence of tobacco smoking between immigrants and native‐born population. This study investigates the differences in smoking among immigrants from English speaking (ESC) and non‐English speaking (NESC) countries relative to native‐born (NB) Australians, and how those differences change with duration of residence (DoR) and age at arrival (AA).

Methods

Information on 12 634 individuals from the first twelve waves (2001‐2012) of Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) longitudinal survey was analysed using multilevel group‐mean‐centred mixed logistic regression models. Smoking status as an outcome was dichotomized as current vs non‐current smokers.

Results

After adjusting for covariates, relative to native‐born respondents, there was no difference in the odds of smoking for English speaking countries immigrants, while immigrants from non‐English speaking countries had lower odds of smoking. The smoking prevalence of immigrants from non‐English speaking countries converged towards the native‐born after 20 years of residence in Australia. The association between duration of residence and smoking was modified by age at arrival, with immigrants (combined ESC and NESC) who arrived as children or adolescents and had lived 20 years or longer were significantly more likely to smoke than native‐born Australians.

Conclusion

The results suggest that the initially lower smoking prevalence among non‐English speaking countries immigrants converges with that of native‐born Australians after twenty years of residence, and immigrants (combined ESC and NESC) who arrived as children or adolescents more than 20 years ago were more likely to be smokers.

So what?

Current health promotion and anti‐smoking programs should ensure that immigrants from non‐English speaking background have access to education and information about the hazards of tobacco consumptions and are aware of the available smoking cessation services. Efforts to prevent smoking uptake among NESC immigrants and those who arrive as children or adolescents and live longer than 20 years is especially important for tobacco control interventions.
Motivating employee referrals: The interactive effects of the referral bonus, perceived risk in referring, and affective commitment
Authors: Pieper Jenna R. , Greenwald Jessica M. , Schlachter Steven D.
Published: December 2017

Research has provided compelling evidence that employee referrals result in positive outcomes for organizations and job seekers, but it has been limited on how organizations can increase the likelihood of obtaining employee referrals. Using the theoretical lens of social exchange theory and tenets from expectancy theory, we tested two common assumptions of most employers: A referral bonus motivates employees to refer, and higher bonus amounts incite greater likelihood of referring. We theoretically developed and tested a model integrating the effects of perceived risk in referring and affective commitment and their interactions with the referral bonus to better explain the likelihood of referring. Results largely supported our predictions. Referral bonus presence, referral bonus amount, and affective commitment positively related to likelihood of referring, while perceived risk in referring negatively related to likelihood of referring. The findings also suggest that larger referral bonuses can help offset perceived risk in referring and low affective commitment levels. We contribute to the literature by developing theory, expanding the scope of the current referral literature, and offering a quantitative examination of previously theorized variables in the referring process. We conclude with suggestions to practicing managers on ways to improve the motivating potential of their employee referral programs.
Examining the nature, causes, and consequences of profiles of organizational citizenship behavior
Authors: Klotz Anthony C. , Bolino Mark C. , Song Hairong , Stornelli Jason
Published: December 2017

Research on organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) typically focuses on either one type of OCB or an aggregate of multiple types of OCB. We investigate a third conceptualization of OCB by examining how employees use conscientiousness, sportsmanship, civic virtue, courtesy, and altruism in distinct combinations. In Study 1, we identify 5 profiles of citizenship in a sample of 129 workers in a medium‐sized firm. Some employees used either high levels (prosocial citizens), above average levels (contributors), or low levels of all 5 OCBs (disengaged). Another profile of employees (specialists) displayed relatively high levels of civic virtue and altruism, and a final profile of employees (moderates) engaged in below‐average levels of all OCBs except conscientiousness. We also found that organizational concern citizenship motives related to these profiles. In Study 2, using a more generalizable sample of over 400 employees, we replicated 4 of the 5 profiles and identified a group of employees who mainly engaged in OCBs aimed at others (good coworkers). Using data collected at 3 points in time, we also found that citizenship motives (impression management, prosocial values, and organizational concern) predicted all 5 OCB profiles and that these profiles predicted job performance ratings, workplace status, and citizenship fatigue.
A retrospective analysis on patients at high‐risk for obstructive sleep apnea undergoing ear, nose, and throat surgeries
Authors: Woodling Karina , Fiorda‐Diaz Juan , Otto Bradley A. , Barnes Christie A. , Uribe Alberto A. , Bergese Sergio D. , Yildiz Vedat , Stoicea Nicoleta , Guertin Michael G.
Published: December 2017

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may be related to episodes of oxygen de‐saturation, hypercapnia, cardiovascular dysfunction, cor‐pulmonale, and pulmonary hypertension. STOP‐BANG is an acronym for eight specific questions used to assess the likelihood of OSA. If the individual exhibits three or more of these indicators, he/she should be considered to be at high risk for OSA complications. Therefore, the decision of proceeding with inpatient versus outpatient ENT surgery still remains controversial. The primary objective of the study was to identify and correlate desaturation (SPO2 <90%) episodes and risk factors.

Methods

We conducted a single‐center retrospective study between October 1, 2011 and August 31, 2014 in order to identify postoperative complications during the first 24 hours that justify postoperative monitoring and hospital admission. A total of 292 subjects were included for data analysis. Patients were divided into two groups based on the number of OSA risk factors: group A with 3–4 risk factors (n = 166), and group B with ≥5 risk factors (n = 126). The following information was collected: demographics, ASA, preoperative STOP‐BANG score, length of surgery, intraoperative complications, opioid consumption, post anesthesia care unit (PACU) and overall length of stay, supplemental oxygen requirement, oxygen desaturation, and postoperative opioid consumption.

Results

No statistically significant difference was found when comparing demographic variables between both groups. All STOP‐BANG variables showed statistical significance. PACU and inpatient variables were similar among both groups, with the exception of length of hospital stay (longer stay in group B when compared to group A [p = 0.003]). Desaturation differences between both groups during PACU were statistically significant (p = 0.008). A post‐hoc analysis showed a 0% incidence of overall desaturation in the group with three STOP‐BANG indicators.

Conclusions

Our retrospective analysis concluded that patients diagnosed with three STOP‐BANG risk factors did not experience postoperative complications and hospital admission was not justified.

Level of Evidence

4
Surface Properties and Antimicrobial Activity of Poly(sulfur‐co‐1,3‐diisopropenylbenzene) Copolymers
Authors: Deng Zhuoling , Hoefling Alexander , Théato Patrick , Lienkamp Karen
Published: December 2017

Poly(sulfur‐co‐1,3‐diisopropenyl benzene) copolymers with varying compositions are synthesized from elemental sulfur and 1,3‐diisopropenyl benzene by melt polymerization. The resulting polymers are spin‐coated onto silicon wafers, and their thin‐film properties (thickness, surface composition, hydrophobicity, swellability, roughness, and morphology) are studied. The surface composition of the polymer films (determined by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy) indicates that the carbon‐containing repeat units of the polymer segregate to the air–polymer interface, so that the resulting surfaces are hydrophobic. This is in line with results from surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy measurements, which indicate that the materials are protein‐adhesive. Atomic force microscopy reveals that all materials are quite rough and show signs of microphase separation. Antimicrobial assays reveal that the materials are moderately active against Escherichia coli.
Prediction of Initial Miscibility for Ternary Polyurethane Reaction Mixtures on Basis of Solubility Parameters and Flory–Huggins Theory
Authors: Wenning Christian , Barbe Stéphan , Achten Dirk , Schmidt Annette M. , Leimenstoll Marc C.
Published: December 2017

The initial miscibility in bi‐soft segment polyurethane reaction mixtures is investigated on the basis of Flory–Huggins (FH) theory and solubility parameters (SPs). Different group contribution theories are applied to estimate the SPs of polyether polyol (PEP) structures and 1,6‐hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI). The PEP structure comprising starter molecule, ethylene oxide/propylene oxide moieties, and end‐functional hydroxyl groups is considered in the calculations. Binodal curves are determined computationally for binary PEP mixtures as well as for a ternary mixture consisting of HDI and a binary mixture of partially miscible PEPs. The computed phase equilibria are found to be in good agreement to experimental cloud points and binodal compositions. The prediction of miscibility for practically relevant ternary polyurethane systems on the basis of FH theory and SPs is thus feasible. Additionally, the study demonstrates that HDI is acting as a compatibilizer for partially miscible PEPs in the initial reaction mixture.
Intraoperative objective evaluation of venous congestion in deep epigastric artery perforator flap breast reconstruction: A pilot study
Authors: Akita Shinsuke , Yamaji Yoshihisa , Tokumoto Hideki , Sasahara Yoshitaro , Tezuka Takafumi , Kubota Yoshitaka , Kuriyama Motone , Mitsukawa Nobuyuki
Published: December 2017

Background

In a deep epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction, the necessity of additional anastomosis of the superficial inferior epigastric vein (SIEV) should be determined intraoperatively. The purpose of this pilot study is to propose a method to detect venous congestion intraoperatively using the blood glucose measurement index (BGMI).

Methods

In 70 DIEP flaps of 67 patients for breast reconstruction, the ratio of blood glucose content in the flap to systemic blood glucose (BGMI) was measured immediately after wound closure. Eight flaps in which BGMI was less than 0.8 were categorized into the low BGMI group, and additional venous anastomosis using SIEV was conducted. The other 62 flaps were categorized into the normal BGMI group. Perioperative objective color difference of the flap calculated using the L*a*b* color coordinate scale was recorded simultaneously. Correlation between BGMI and color difference was analyzed.

Results

In all flaps in the low BGMI group, SIEV diameter was increased; after additional anastomosis, the BGMI significantly improved (from 0.71 ± 0.05 to 0.94 ± 0.05, P < .01). There was a significant correlation between BGMI and color difference (P = .04). The determination coefficient was 0.265. When a BGMI of less than 0.8 was assumed to be a true positive, the area under the curve of color difference in the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.82.

Conclusion

BGMI immediately after wound closure may be useful to detect initial signs of venous congestion. Intraoperative objective color difference also reflects venous congestion; however, it is not highly accurate.
Arabidopsis DEFECTIVE KERNEL1 regulates cell wall composition and axial growth in the inflorescence stem
Authors: Amanda Dhika , Doblin Monika S. , MacMillan Colleen P. , Galletti Roberta , Golz John F. , Bacic Antony , Ingram Gwyneth C. , Johnson Kim L.
Published: December 2017

Axial growth in plant stems requires a fine balance between elongation and stem mechanical reinforcement to ensure mechanical stability. Strength is provided by the plant cell wall, the deposition of which must be coordinated with cell expansion and elongation to ensure that integrity is maintained during growth. Coordination of these processes is critical and yet poorly understood. The plant‐specific calpain, DEFECTIVE KERNEL1 (DEK1), plays a key role in growth coordination in leaves, yet its role in regulating stem growth has not been addressed. Using plants overexpressing the active CALPAIN domain of DEK1 (CALPAIN OE) and a DEK1 knockdown line (amiRNA‐DEK1), we undertook morphological, biochemical, biophysical, and microscopic analyses of mature inflorescence stems. We identify a novel role for DEK1 in the maintenance of cell wall integrity and coordination of growth during inflorescence stem development. CALPAIN OE plants are significantly reduced in stature and have short, thickened stems, while amiRNA‐DEK1 lines have weakened stems that are unable to stand upright. Microscopic analyses of the stems identify changes in cell size, shape and number, and differences in both primary and secondary cell wall thickness and composition. Taken together, our results suggest that DEK1 influences primary wall growth by indirectly regulating cellulose and pectin deposition. In addition, we observe changes in secondary cell walls that may compensate for altered primary cell wall composition. We propose that DEK1 activity is required for the coordination of stem strengthening with elongation during axial growth.