bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, cytotoxicity and anti‐metastatic properties of new pyridyl–thiazole arene ruthenium(II) complexes
Authors: Wang Li , He Yihui , Xiang Guangya , Shang Xianmei
Published: March 2018

A series of novel ruthenium(II)–cymene complexes (1–8) containing substituted pyridyl–thiazole ligands, [Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)(L)Cl]Cl (L = N,N‐chelating derivatives), have been synthesized and characterized using elemental analysis, infrared, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopies and mass spectrometry. All these complexes not only display marked cytotoxicity in vitro against three different human cancer cell lines (HeLa, A549 and MDA‐MB‐231), but also exhibit promising anti‐metastatic activity at sub‐cytotoxic concentrations. Cell cycle analysis shows that the ruthenium(II) complex‐induced growth inhibition was mainly caused by S‐phase cell cycle arrest. Further protein level analysis suggests that compound 5 may exert antitumor activity via a p53‐independent mechanism.
Ag/Au Alloy LSPR Engineering by Co‐deposition of RF‐Sputtering and RF‐PECVD
Authors: Gholamali Hediyeh , Shafiekhani Azizollah , Darabi Elham , Elahi Seyed Mohammad
Published: March 2018

Silver‐Gold alloy/diamond like carbon (Ag‐Au/DLC) nanocomposite films were prepared by co‐deposition of RF‐sputtering and RF‐PECVD on glass substrates by using acetylene gas and silver‐gold target. The deposition process was carried out at room temperature in one minute with the variable parameters of initial pressures and RF powers. X‐ray diffraction analysis demonstrated the formation of Ag/Au alloy nanoparticles with a face‐centered cubic (FCC) structure. Localized surface plasmon and optical properties of Ag‐Au alloy nanoparticles were studied by UV‐visible spectrophotometry which showed that increasing RF power and initial pressure cause a redshift in all samples. Moreover, the effect of RF power and initial pressure on the size and shape of nanoparticles were studied by 2D Atomic force microscopy images. Energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy revealed the formation of Ag‐Au/DLC nanoparticles and the percentages of C, Ag, Au and O in all samples. The applied method for Ag/Au alloy preparation is the one step and low‐cost method which makes the samples ready for sensing application.
Synthesis, spectroscopic/electrochemical characterization and DNA interaction study of novel ferrocenyl‐substituted porphyrins
Authors: Auras Bruna L. , De Lucca Meller Sheila , da Silva Marcos Paulo , Neves Ademir , Cocca Leandro H.Z. , De Boni Leonardo , da Silveira Carolina Hahn , Iglesias Bernardo A.
Published: March 2018

We report the synthesis and characterization of two new meso‐ferrocenylporphyrins, with the ferrocenyl unit attached at the para position of a C6F4 group by a CN bond with NH(CH2)2NH (2a) and NH(CH2)4NH (2b) spacers. Compounds 2a and 2b were characterized through elemental analyses, electrospray ionization high‐resolution mass spectrometry, 1H NMR, UV–visible and fluorescence spectroscopies, electrochemistry and spectroelectrochemistry. The free base porphyrin 2 was included for comparison purposes. The binding ability of 2 and the porphyrin derivatives 2a and 2b with calf thymus DNA was determined using UV–visible and fluorescence spectroscopies. The results suggest that the interaction of these systems most probably occurs through π‐stacking by non‐classical modes involving the partial insertion of the C6F5 ring between adjacent base pairs on DNA and possible hydrogen interaction with the aliphatic NH(CH2)nNH (n = 2 or 4) groups with calf thymus DNA. Moreover, we also demonstrate that porphyrins generate singlet oxygen species and show good photostability after irradiation.
Melt‐electrospun fibers obtained from polypropylene/poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl alcohol)/polypropylene three‐layer films
Authors: Fujii Takayuki , Mizutani Yuto , Nakane Koji
Published: March 2018

Production of polypropylene (PP) nanofibers below 1 μm in average diameter is difficult with conventional melt‐spinning. A nozzle‐free melt‐type electrospinning (M‐ESP) system with a line‐like CO2 laser beam melting device were used to produce PP nanofibers. To achieve the purpose, core [poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl alcohol) (EVOH)]–clad (PP) nanofibers (average diameter, 0.88 μm) were fabricated from PP/EVOH/PP three‐layer films using the M‐ESP. The core–clad structure was formed by a wrapping phenomenon caused by the difference in the melt flow rates (MFRs) of PP and EVOH melts. Hollow PP nanofibers were obtained from the core–clad nanofibers by extraction of EVOH. Nanofiber diameter and hollow wall thickness could be altered by changing the MFR of the PP melt. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46393.
Crystallization of polyamide 56/polyamide 66 blends: Non‐isothermal crystallization kinetics
Authors: Wang Yu , Kang Hong‐Liang , Wang Rui , Liu Rui‐Gang , Hao Xin‐Min
Published: March 2018

The non‐isothermal crystallization behaviors of PA56, PA66, and PA56/PA66 blends were studied by differential scanning calorimetry. The Jeziorny and Mo's methods were used to analyze their non‐isothermal crystallization kinetics. The results indicated that Mo's method was better to describe the experimental data in this work. The crystallization rate of PA56 was much slower than that of PA66. The crystallization rate of PA56/PA66 blend was speeded up significantly with the increasing PA66 content when the PA66 content was less than 30 wt %. Further increase in the PA66 content only leads to relatively less increase of the crystallization rate in the PA56/PA66 blends. Activation energies have been determined with Friedman method. The activation energy of PA56/PA66 blends is decreased and lower than that of PA56. PA66 may play a role of nucleating agent toward PA56 to make it crystallize more easily in PA56/PA66 blends. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46409.
Electrospray‐assisted fabrication of core‐shell arabinoxylan gel particles for insulin and probiotics entrapment
Authors: Paz‐Samaniego Rita , Rascón‐Chu Agustín , Brown‐Bojorquez Francisco , Carvajal‐Millan Elizabeth , Pedroza‐Montero Martin , Silva‐Campa Erika , Sotelo‐Cruz Norberto , López‐Franco Yolanda L. , Lizardi‐Mendoza Jaime
Published: March 2018

This work presents the fabrication and characterization of electro‐sprayed core‐shell particles that were composed of maize bran arabinoxylans (MBAX) with insulin in the core, and maize wastewater arabinoxylans (MWAX) with Bifidobacterium in the shell. Two concentrations of MBAX (3% and 6% w/v) and MWAX (6% and 10% w/v) were evaluated. The particles fabricated with MBAX at 6% (w/v) in the core and MWAX at 10% (w/v) in the shell were more stable, presented spherical shape and no aggregation being therefore selected to be loaded with insulin and probiotics. These particles presented a size of 2.9 mm. Scanning electron microscopy analysis of the particle cross section revealed the presence of both, a smooth (shell) and a porous (core) microstructure. Confocal laser scanning microscopy confirmed the core‐shell structure of the particles and the viability of the probiotic entrapped. Gastrointestinal simulation strongly suggests that these particles are not degraded in the stomach and small intestine and that 76% of the carried insulin is released in colon. These results indicate that insulin and Bifidobacterium encapsulation by tetraaxial electro spraying can be a feasible and adequate technique to produce arabinoxylan capsules containing both insulin and probiotics. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46411.
Dependence of rheological behaviors of polymeric composites on the morphological structure of carbonaceous nanoparticles
Authors: Lin Xiang , Zhang Kai , Li Ke , Ren Dongyun
Published: March 2018

Carbonaceous nanoparticles (CNPs), including carbon black, carbon nanotubes, and graphene nanopiece, were selected as nanoadditives for investigating the rheological behavior dependence of their polymer‐based composites on morphological and interfacial structure. Polypropylene (PP) was adopted as matrix and a series of contents of CNPs were used for sample compounding. With identical concentration, the morphological structure of CNPs was emphasized as the dominant effect affecting the shear viscosity and the compressibility of PP/CNPs melts. The viscosity dependence on the CNPs contents and physical structure, such as particle size, aspect ratio, and specific area, was fully discussed in this work. The newly‐introduced inner voids, induced around the interface region between matrix and CNPs during physical mixing, were contributive to the rheological deviation, which was further reflected from the melt compressibility. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46416.
Using citizen science to bridge taxonomic discovery with education and outreach
Authors: von Konrat Matt , Campbell Thomas , Carter Ben , Greif Matthew , Bryson Mike , Larraín Juan , Trouille Laura , Cohen Steve , Gaus Eve , Qazi Ayesha , Ribbens Eric , Livshultz Tatyana , Walker Taylor J. , Suwa Tomomi , Peterson Taylor , Rodriguez Yarency , Vaughn Caitlin , Yang Christina , Aburahmeh Selma , Carstensen Brian , de Lange Peter , Delavoi Charlie , Strauss Kalman , Drag Justyna , Aguero Blanka , Snyder Chris , Martinec Joann , Smith Arfon
Published: March 2018

Premise of the Study

Biological collections are uniquely poised to inform the stewardship of life on Earth in a time of cataclysmic biodiversity loss. Efforts to fully leverage collections are impeded by a lack of trained taxonomists and a lack of interest and engagement by the public. We provide a model of a crowd‐sourced data collection project that produces quality taxonomic data sets and empowers citizen scientists through real contributions to science. Entitled MicroPlants, the project is a collaboration between taxonomists, citizen science experts, and teachers and students from universities and K–12.

Methods

We developed an online tool that allows citizen scientists to measure photographs of specimens of a hyper‐diverse group of liverworts from a biodiversity hotspot.

Results

Using the MicroPlants online tool, citizen scientists are generating high‐quality data, with preliminary analysis indicating non‐expert data can be comparable to expert data.

Discussion

More than 11,000 users from both the website and kiosk versions have contributed to the data set, which is demonstrably aiding taxonomists working toward establishing conservation priorities within this group. MicroPlants provides opportunities for public participation in authentic science research. The project's educational component helps move youth toward engaging in scientific thinking and has been adopted by several universities into curriculum for both biology and non‐biology majors.
Non‐peptide‐based new class of platelet aggregation inhibitors: Design, synthesis, bioevaluation, SAR, and in silico studies
Authors: Jaiswal Pradeep K. , Sharma Vashundhra , Kumar Surendra , Mathur Manas , Swami Ajit K. , Yadav Dharmendra K. , Chaudhary Sandeep
Published: March 2018

A series of 2‐oxo‐2‐phenylethylidene linked 2‐oxo‐benzo[1,4]oxazine analogues 17a–x and 18a–o, incorporated with a variety of electron‐withdrawing as well as electron‐donating groups at ring A and ring C, were synthesized under greener conditions in excellent yields (up to 98%). These analogues 17a–x and 18a–o were evaluated for their arachidonic acid (AA)‐induced platelet aggregation inhibitory activities in comparison with the standard reference aspirin (IC50 = 21.34 ± 1.09 µg/mL). Among all the screened compounds, eight analogues, 17i, 17x, 18f, 18g, 18h, 18i, 18l, and 18o, were identified as promising platelet aggregation inhibitors as compared to aspirin. In addition, cytotoxic studies in 3T3 fibroblast cell lines by MTT assay of the promising compounds (17i, 17x, 18f–18i, 18l, and 18o) were also performed and the compounds were found to be non‐toxic in nature. Furthermore, the results on the AA‐induced platelet aggregation inhibitory activities of these compounds (17i, 17x, 18f–18i, 18l, and 18o) were validated via in silico molecular docking simulation studies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the identification of non‐peptide‐based functionalized 2‐oxo‐benzo[1,4]oxazines as platelet aggregation inhibitors.
Design of Conjugated Molecules Presenting Short‐Wavelength Luminescence by Utilizing Heavier Atoms of the Same Element Group
Authors: Yamaguchi Madoka , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: March 2018

The introduction of heavy atoms into conjugated molecules often induces a redshift in the emission spectra. Conversely, we report here a blueshifting effect in the absorption and emission bands of a conjugated organic dye by employing a heavier atom from the same element group. Boron complexes having oxygen‐ and sulfur‐bridged structures in the ligand moiety were synthesized, and their optical properties were compared. Significant optical bands in the absorption and luminescence spectra of the sulfur‐bridged complex were observed in a shorter wavelength region than those of the oxygen‐bridged complex. Theoretical calculations suggest that replacement of the bridging atom by a heavier one should reduce molecular planarity because of the larger atom size. As a result, the degree of electronic conjugation decreases, and this is followed by a blueshift in the optical bands. Finally, a blue‐emissive crystal is demonstrated.
Alterations in plasma cytokine levels in chinese children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Hu Chun‐Chun , Xu Xiu , Xiong Guo‐Liang , Xu Qiong , Zhou Bing‐Rui , Li Chun‐Yang , Qin Qi , Liu Chun‐Xue , Li Hui‐Ping , Sun Yun‐Jun , Yu Xiang
Published: March 2018

Genetic alterations, together with environmental risk factors during infancy and childhood, contribute significantly to the etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impairments in social interaction and restricted, repetitive behaviors. Mounting evidence points to a critical contribution of immunological risk factors to the development of ASD. By affecting multiple neurodevelopmental processes, immune system dysfunction could act as a point of convergence between genetics and environmental factors in ASD. Previous studies have shown altered cytokine levels in individuals with ASD, but research in Asian populations are limited. Here, we measured the plasma levels of 11 candidate cytokines in ASD and typically developing (TD) children. The cohort included 41 TD children and 87 children with ASD, aged 1–6 years. We found that as compared to the TD group, children with ASD had higher plasma levels of Eotaxin, TGF‐β1 and TNF‐α. The increase in TGF‐β1 level was most significant in males, while the increase in Eotaxin was most significant in females. Eotaxin level negatively correlated with the social affect score (SA) in ADOS, while TNF‐α level positively correlated with total development quotient (DQ), measured using GMDS. These pilot findings suggest potentially important roles of Eotaxin, TGF‐β1 and TNF‐α in ASD in the Chinese population. Autism Res 2018, 11: 989–999. © 2018 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

Alteration of immune system function is an important risk factor for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here we found that the levels of cytokines, including Eotaxin, TGF‐β1 and TNF‐α, are elevated in Chinese children with ASD, as compared to typically developing children. The change in TGF‐β1 level was most prominent in boys, while that of Eotaxin was more significant in girls. These results provide evidence for changes in cytokine profile in Chinese children with ASD.
Integrity of IKK/NF‐κB Shields Thymic Stroma That Suppresses Susceptibility to Autoimmunity, Fungal Infection, and Carcinogenesis
Authors: Zhu Feng , Hu Yinling
Published: March 2018

A pathogenic connection between autoreactive T cells, fungal infection, and carcinogenesis has been demonstrated in studies of human autoimmune polyendocrinopathy‐candidiasis‐ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) as well as in a mouse model in which kinase‐dead Ikkα knock‐in mice develop impaired central tolerance, autoreactive T cell–mediated autoimmunity, chronic fungal infection, and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, which recapitulates APECED. IκB kinase α (IKKα) is one subunit of the IKK complex required for NF‐κB activation. IKK/NF‐κB is essential for central tolerance establishment by regulating the development of medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) that facilitate the deletion of autoreactive T cells in the thymus. In this review, we extensively discuss the pathogenic roles of inborn errors in the IKK/NF‐κB loci in the phenotypically related diseases APECED, immune deficiency syndrome, and severe combined immunodeficiency; differentiate how IKK/NF‐κB components, through mTEC (stroma), T cells/leukocytes, or epithelial cells, contribute to the pathogenesis of infectious diseases, autoimmunity, and cancer; and highlight the medical significance of IKK/NF‐κB in these diseases.
Bouncing Back from Extreme Weather Events: Some Preliminary Findings on Resilience Barriers Facing Small and Medium‐Sized Enterprises
Authors: Halkos George , Skouloudis Antonis , Malesios Chrisovaladis , Evangelinos Konstantinos
Published: March 2018

Extreme weather events (EWEs) pose unprecedented threats to modern societies and represent a much‐debated issue strongly interlinked with current development policies. Small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), which constitute a driving force of economic growth, employment and total value added, remain highly vulnerable to and ill prepared for such environmental perturbations. This study investigates barriers to SMEs’ resilience to EWEs in an attempt to shed light on enabling factors that can define effective organizational responses to non‐linear environmental stimuli. Relying on structural equation modeling and data gathered from 109 SMEs that recently experienced EWE impacts, we link the general concept of SMEs’ resilience barriers to EWEs with a series of elements to determine specific internal and external factors that contribute the most to EWE resilience. In particular, external barriers of institutional conditions and mechanisms of support and guidance as well as internal barriers of resources and managerial perceptions are found to be the most critical ones in determining resilience. The assessment offers essential research evidence for practitioners on SME management and sets forth linkages with current mechanisms for policy interventions towards an appropriate resilience agenda for SMEs. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Integrative analysis of competing endogenous RNA network focusing on long noncoding RNA associated with progression of cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Xu Siyi , Sui Jing , Yang Sheng , Liu Yufeng , Wang Yan , Liang Geyu
Published: March 2018

Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is the most malignant tumor of skin cancers because of its rapid development and high mortality rate. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which play essential roles in the tumorigenesis and metastasis of CM and interplay with microRNAs (miRNAs) and mRNAs, are hopefully considered to be efficient biomarkers to detect deterioration during the progression of CM to improve the prognosis. Bioinformatics analysis was fully applied to predict the vital lncRNAs and the associated miRNAs and mRNAs, which eventually constructed the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network to explain the RNA expression patterns in the progression of CM. Further statistical analysis emphasized the importance of these key genes, which were statistically significantly related to one or few clinical features from the ceRNA network. The results showed the lncRNAs MGC12926 and LINC00937 were verified to be strongly connected with the prognosis of CM patients.
Inhibition of PC4 radiosensitizes non‐small cell lung cancer by transcriptionally suppressing XLF
Authors: Zhang Tian , Liu Xiaojie , Chen Xiuli , Wang Jing , Wang Yuwen , Qian Dong , Pang Qingsong , Wang Ping
Published: March 2018

Positive cofactor 4 (PC4) participates in DNA damage repair and involved in nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ). Our previous results demonstrated that knockdown of PC4 downregulated the expression of XRCC4‐like factor (XLF) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. However, the mechanism how PC4 regulates the expression of XLF remains unclear. Here, we found that knockdown of PC4 increased radiosensitivity of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) both in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, we found that PC4 knockdown downregulated the expression of XLF, whereas recovering XLF expression restored radioresistance in the PC4‐knockdown NSCLC cells. In addition, PC4 knockdown inhibited XLF expression by transcriptionally suppressing of XLF. Moreover, PC4 expression correlated with radiosensitivity and was an independent prognostic factor of progression‐free survival (PFS) in patients with NSCLC. These findings suggest that PC4 could be used as a promising therapeutic target for NSCLC.
Apoptin‐derived peptide reverses cisplatin resistance in gastric cancer through the PI3K–AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Zhou Danyang , Liu Wenjing , Liang Songhe , Sun Banghao , Liu Anqi , Cui Zhongqi , Han Xue , Yuan Lijie
Published: March 2018

The prognosis of gastric cancer (GC) remains poor due to clinical drug resistance, and novel drugs are urgently needed. Apoptin‐derived peptide (AdP) is an antitumor polypeptide constructed in our laboratory that has been used to combat cisplatin (CDDP) resistance in GC cells. MTT and colony‐formation assays and Hoechst 33342 staining were used to measure the cytotoxicity of CDDP and AdP in GC cells. Cell apoptosis was measured using an Annexin‐V‐FITC/PI dual staining assay. Western blot analysis was conducted to detect the expression of proteins in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and resistance‐related markers. AdP exerted a specific cytotoxic effect on GC cells and CDDP‐resistant GC cells in a concentration‐ and time‐dependent manner. AdP also suppressed cell invasion and migration. Additionally, AdP inhibited the expression of p85, AKT, p‐p85, p‐AKT, multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1), and aryl hydrocarbon nuclear translocator (ARNT) in the PI3K/AKT/ARNT signaling pathway, which promoted apoptosis and necrosis in GC cells. AdP promoted apoptosis in CDDP‐resistant GC cells by suppressing the PI3K/AKT/ARNT signaling pathway and might be considered a candidate agent for the clinical treatment of cisplatin‐resistant GC.
Development and validation of an individualized diagnostic signature in thyroid cancer
Authors: Han Li‐ou , Li Xin‐yu , Cao Ming‐ming , Cao Yan , Zhou Li‐hong
Published: March 2018

New molecular signatures are needed to improve the diagnosis of thyroid cancer (TC) and avoid unnecessary surgeries. In this study, we aimed to develop a robust and individualized diagnostic signature in TC. Gene expression profiles of tumor and nontumor samples were from 13 microarray datasets of Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and one RNA‐sequencing dataset of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). A total of 1246 samples were divided into a training set (N = 435), a test set (N = 247), and one independent validation set (N = 564). In the training set, 115 most frequent differentially expressed genes (DEGs) among the included datasets were used to construct 6555 gene pairs, and 19 significant pairs were detected to further construct the diagnostic signature by a penalized generalized linear model. The signature showed a good diagnostic ability for TC in the training set (area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) = 0.976), test set (AUC = 0.960), and TCGA dataset (AUC = 0.979). Subgroup analyses showed consistent results when considering the type of nontumor samples and microarray platforms. When compared with two existing molecular signatures in the diagnosis of thyroid nodules, the signature (AUC = 0.933) also showed a higher diagnostic ability (AUC = 0.886 for a 7‐gene signature and AUC = 0.892 for a 10‐gene signature). In conclusion, our study developed and validated an individualized diagnostic signature in TC. Large‐scale prospective studies were needed to further validate its diagnostic ability.
“It's ok if it's hidden”: The discursive construction of everyday racism for refugees and asylum seekers in Wales
Authors: Parker Samuel
Published: March 2018

Wales has a long history of migration; however, the introduction of dispersed asylum seekers in 2001 has led to Wales becoming a more superdiverse nation. Wales has often been positioned as a more “tolerant nation” than England; however, the increasingly superdiverse nature of Wales in a postdevolution era may now be calling this tolerance thesis into question. Models of refugee and asylum seeker integration suggest that the absence of racism plays a key role in integration. This paper reports the findings of research that centres on refugee and asylum seeker integration in Wales. Nineteen interviews were conducted with refugees and asylum seekers who had been living in Wales for between 1 month and 12 years. Each interview was analysed using a discursive psychology approach. In this paper, I show that the interviewees appeared to negotiate a dilemma when talking about experiencing potentially racist incidents within the interviews, constructing them as trivial so as not to appear critical of the protection they have received in Wales. The findings also highlight the more everyday and banal forms of racism that are regularly experienced by refugees and asylum seekers living in Wales.
MicroRNA‐320 involves in the cardioprotective effect of insulin against myocardial ischemia by targeting survivin
Authors: Yang Ni , Wu Liuzhong , Zhao Ying , Zou Ning , Liu Chunfeng
Published: March 2018

It is generally accepted that insulin exerts an antiapoptotic effect against ischemia/reperfusion through the activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. MicroRNAs involve in multiple cardiac pathophysiological processes, including ischemia/reperfusion–induced cardiac injury. However, the regulation of microRNAs in the cardioprotective effect of insulin is rarely discussed. In this study, using a cell model of ischemia through culturing H9C2 cardiac myocytes in serum‐free medium with hypoxia, we demonstrated that pretreatment with insulin significantly inhibited cell apoptosis and downregulated microRNA‐320 (miR‐320) expression. Interestingly, miR‐320 mimic impaired the cardioprotective effect of insulin against myocardial ischemia injury by targeting survivin, which is a member of the family of inhibitor of apoptosis proteins. Suppression miR‐320 expression by miR‐320 inhibitor in H9C2 cells with myocardial ischemia mimics the cardioprotective effect of insulin by maintaining survivin expression. Taken together, miR‐320–mediated survivin expression involves in cardioprotective effect of insulin against myocardial ischemia injury.

Significance of this study

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury remains an important clinical problem with extremely deficient clinical therapies. Insulin exerts an antiapoptotic effect against I/R through the activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Here, we provided evidences to show that microRNA‐320 involves in the cardioprotective effect of insulin by targeting survivin, which is an inhibitor of apoptosis protein and functions as a key regulator in cell apoptosis and involves in the tumour genesis and progression. Our findings may provide a new potential therapeutic strategy for I/R injury and ischemic heart disease.
Patient selection and percutaneous technique of unprotected left main revascularization
Authors: Testa L. , Latib A. , Bollati M. , Bedogni F.
Published: March 2018

Increasing evidence suggests that percutaneous coronary intervention with newer generation drug‐eluting stents may be an acceptable alternative, or even preferred in selected cases to the surgical approach, in patients with left main disease. This review will discuss the anatomic factors, the clinical variables, and the procedural strategies to consider, including physiology assessment and imaging guidance, in order to optimize outcomes.
Determinants of success and hemodynamic impact of balloon postdilatation of self‐expanding transcatheter aortic valves
Authors: Abdelghani Mohammad , de Winter Robbert J. , Miyazaki Yosuke , Modolo Rodrigo , Tateishi Hiroki , Cavalcante Rafael , Sarmento‐Leite Rogério , Mangione José A. , Abizaid Alexandre , Soliman Osama I. I. , Onuma Yoshinobu , Lemos Pedro A. , Serruys Patrick W. , de Brito Fabio S.
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To explore the rate, the determinants of success, and the hemodynamic impact of balloon postdilatation (BPD) of self‐expanding transcatheter heart valves (SE‐THVs)

Background

BPD is commonly used to optimize valve expansion and reduce paravalvular leakage (PVL) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) without clearly knowing its hemodynamic benefits.

Methods

Patients (n = 307) who received a SE‐THV were stratified according to whether a BPD was performed or not. Patients who received BPD were stratified according to the severity of PVL remaining after BPD into two groups: Successful BPD (≤mild PVL + BPD) and Failed BPD (moderate‐severe PVL + BPD).

Results

BPD was performed in 121 patients (39.4%) and was successful in 106 patients (87.6% of attempts). A ratio of the postdilatation balloon diameter to the annulus diameter ≤0.95 was an independent predictor of BPD failure (OR: 10.72 [2.02‐56.76], P = .005). Peak transvalvular pressure gradient (PG) was lower in the Successful BPD group (14[12‐22] mm Hg) than in the Failed BPD group (18[16‐23] mm Hg, P = .029), and did not rise in either group during follow‐up (median [IQR], 364[161‐739] days).

Conclusion

BPD was performed in 39% of patients who received a SE‐THV, and was successful in the majority of attempts. BPD failure was more likely in patients with a small postdilatation balloon‐to‐annulus diameter ratio. Effective BPD improved THV hemodynamic performance, and this was maintained in the intermediate‐term post‐TAVI.
Novel method for radial sheath removal using manual pressure over hemostatic pad combined with ulnar compression
Authors: Panetta Carmelo , Rao Sunil
Published: March 2018

Objectives

Study a novel method using manual pressure on a hemostatic pad and hemoband for ulnar compression as a potential alternative for radial sheath removal.

Background

The standard for transradial access site (TRA) sheath removal requires an inflatable pressure band over the radial artery and recently a band over the ulnar artery to reduce complications. We present a novel technique using a SoftSeal®‐STF hemostatic pad over the radial artery combined with a hemoband over the ulnar artery after sheath removal.

Methods

All patients had activated clotting time (ACT); sheath removal was performed immediately upon transfer to the recovery room. A hemoband compressed the ulnar artery, radial artery flow was measured using plethysmography and pulse oximetry while direct pressure applied using SoftSeal‐STF hemostatic pad for 15 min after radial sheath removed. Radial artery patency was measured using reverse Barbeau test. If radial artery occlusion (RAO) present, patient was asked to return in one month to repeat test.

Results

Fifty‐nine patients were enrolled in the study, one‐third with diabetes mellitus, one‐third with prior coronary artery bypass surgery, and one‐third with history of percutaneous coronary intervention. Mean ACT 261 ± 50 sec, all patients had 4 Fr sheaths and no PCI were performed. Three (6%) patients had minor bleeding requiring use of a pressure band and one (2%) had RAO, which re‐canalized at one month.

Conclusions

Manual pressure of SoftSeal‐STF hemostatic pad combined with ulnar compression is a potential alternative to current practice with an inflatable pressure band.
First human implant of the Alterra Adaptive PrestentTM: A new self‐expanding device designed to remodel the right ventricular outflow tract
Authors: Zahn Evan M. , Chang Jennifer C. , Armer Dustin , Garg Ruchira
Published: March 2018

Current balloon expandable transcatheter valves have limited applicability to patients with “native” right ventricular outflow tracts (RVOT), meaning those who have had previous surgery and are left with large, compliant, irregular RVOT. The Alterra Adaptive PrestentTM is a self‐expanding, partially covered stent that was designed to internally reconfigure these types of RVOT, making them suitable for implantation of a commercially available balloon expandable heart valve, the SAPIEN 3. Herein, we describe the first human implant of this device.
Long‐term outcomes after re‐entry device use for recanalization of common iliac artery chronic total occlusions
Authors: Kokkinidis Damianos G. , Alvandi Bejan , Cotter Ryan , Hossain Prio , Foley T. Raymond , Singh Gagan D. , Waldo Stephen W. , Laird John R. , Armstrong Ehrin J.
Published: March 2018

Objective

To examine the impact of re‐entry device (RED) use on 1‐ and 5‐year outcomes after endovascular treatment of common iliac artery (CIA) chronic total Occlusions (CTOs).

Background

There are not enough data regarding the long‐term safety and efficacy of RED.

Methods

We performed a two‐center retrospective study of 115 patients (140 lesions) undergoing CIA CTO endovascular intervention between 2006 and 2016. Baseline characteristics and long‐term outcomes were described. A Cox proportional hazard model was developed to determine if REDs were associated with target lesion revascularization (TLR) or major adverse limb events (MALE) after 1 and 5 years.

Results

Among 140 lesions, 43 (31%) required use of a RED. The mean age was 63.9 years and the majority (n = 80) of patients were male. An antegrade crossing approach and treatment of restenotic lesions were less common in the RED group (10% vs. 29%, P < .05 and 0% vs. 21%, P < .05, respectively). There were no significant differences in Rutherford class, pre‐procedure ABI, or patient presentation. The procedural complication rates were similar between the two groups. The 1‐ and 5‐year TLR rates for lesions treated with re‐entry device vs. standard approaches were 11% vs. 9%; P = 0.8 and 29% vs. 29%; P = 0.9 respectively. The 1 and 5‐year MALE rates for lesions treated with re‐entry device were 5% vs. 6%; P = 0.8 and 11% vs. 11%; P = 0.9 respectively.

Conclusions

This retrospective analysis found that recanalization of CIA occlusions using a RED is safe and is associated with long‐term clinical outcomes similar to that of standard crossing techniques.
Robotically performed excimer laser coronary atherectomy: Proof of feasibility
Authors: Almasoud Abdullah , Walters Daniel , Mahmud Ehtisham
Published: March 2018

The feasibility, safety, and high technical success of robotically assisted percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for the treatment of both simple and complex coronary disease has been demonstrated. As the current generation robotic platform is limited to a rapid exchange system, orbital or rotational atherectomy cannot be performed robotically. However, excimer laser coronary atherectomy is performed with a rapid exchange catheter but its feasibility during robotically assisted PCI is unknown. We report the successful use of laser atherectomy during two complex robotically assisted PCI procedures using the CorPath GRX robotic system.
GuideLiner™ as guide catheter extension for the unreachable mammary bypass graft
Authors: Vishnevsky Alec , Savage Michael P. , Fischman David L.
Published: March 2018

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of mammary artery bypass grafts through a trans‐radial (TR) approach can present unique challenges, including coaxial vessel engagement of the guiding catheter, adequate visualization of the target lesion, sufficient backup support for equipment delivery, and the ability to reach very distal lesions. The GuideLiner catheter, a rapid exchange monorail mother‐in‐daughter system, facilitates successful interventions in such challenging anatomy. We present a case of a patient undergoing PCI of a right internal mammary artery (RIMA) graft via TR access in whom the graft could not be engaged with any guiding catheter. Using a balloon tracking technique over a guidewire, a GuideLiner was placed as an extension of the guiding catheter and facilitated TR‐PCI by overcoming technical challenges associated with difficult anatomy.
One‐Dimensional Porphyrin–Fullerene (C60) Assemblies: Role of Central Metal Ion in Enhancing Ambipolar Mobility
Authors: Goudappagouda  , Gedda Murali , Kulkarni Giridhar U. , Babu Sukumaran Santhosh
Published: March 2018

One‐dimensional (1D) nanostructures of π‐conjugated molecules exhibiting excellent charge carrier mobilities have attracted much interest for use in organic electronic devices. Although it is tedious to form such structures, the availability of highly delocalized electron and hole carriers in these donor (D)‐acceptor (A) coassemblies realize ambipolar charge transport. Here we demonstrate the use of a simple solution casting method to create an ambipolar donor–acceptor single‐crystalline assembly. 1D assemblies of 5,10,15,20‐tetraphenylporphyrins (H2TPP, ZnTPP) and fullerene (C60) exhibit high ambipolar mobility in the range of 0.8–3.4 cm2 Vs−1 for electrons and holes with high ON/OFF ratio and low threshold voltage. A direct experimental proof for the pivotal role of the central Zn2+ in tetraphenyl porphyrin, which enables a strong D‐A charge transfer interaction in the cocrystal and thereby induces electron (1.35 cm2 Vs−1), hole (3.42 cm2 Vs−1) mobilities, the highest reported for two component D–A assemblies using solution casting, is demonstrated.
Heterolytic Si−H Bond Cleavage at a Molybdenum‐Oxido‐Based Lewis Pair
Authors: Zwettler Niklas , Walg Simon P. , Belaj Ferdinand , Mösch‐Zanetti Nadia C.
Published: March 2018

The reaction of a molybdenum(VI) oxido imido complex with the strong Lewis acid B(C6F5)3 gave access to the Lewis adduct [Mo{OB(C6F5)3}(NtBu)L2] featuring reversible B−O bonding in solution. The resulting frustrated Lewis pair (FLP)‐like reactivity is reflected by the compound's ability to heterolytically cleave Si−H bonds, leading to a clean formation of the novel cationic MoVI species 3 a (R=Et) and 3 b (R=Ph) of the general formula [Mo(OSiR3)(NtBu)L2][HB(C6F5)3]. These compounds possess properties highly unusual for molybdenum d0 species such as an intensive, charge‐transfer‐based color as well as a reversible redox couple at very low potentials, both dependent on the silane used. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses of 2 and 4 b, a derivative of 3 b featuring the [FB(C6F5)3]− anion, picture the stepwise elongation of the Mo=O bond, leading to a large increase in the electrophilicity of the metal center. The reaction of 3 a and 3 b with benzaldehyde allowed for the regeneration of compound 2 by hydrosilylation of the benzaldehyde. NMR spectroscopy suggested an unusual mechanism for the transformation, involving a substrate insertion in the B−H bond of the borohydride anion.
Green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles impregnated on activated carbon using Moringa oleifera leaves extract for the removal of nitrates from water
Authors: Galan Crislaine Rodrigues , Silva Marcela Fernandes , Mantovani Daniel , Bergamasco Rosângela , Vieira Marcelo Fernandes
Published: March 2018

The present work aims at impregnating copper oxide nanoparticles (Cu NPs) on activated carbon by means of green synthesis with Moringa oleifera leaf extract to develop a material to remove contaminants from water. The produced materials were characterized by means of their textural (specific surface area), morphological (Transmission Electron Microscopy), and structural (X‐ray Diffraction) properties. Particles size was estimated by Scherrer equation and the elemental copper concentrations were estimated by Total Reflection X‐ray Fluorescence (TXRF). Adsorption experiments, as well as pH, kinetics, and adsorption isotherms studies were carried out with the intent of evaluating the efficiency of nitrate (NO3‐) removal from water. The impregnation efficiency of Cu NPs on activated carbon after the adsorption process was measured by means of TXRF analyses. Characterization results confirmed the formation, impregnation, and stability of copper oxide nanoparticles supported on activated carbon, whose crystallite average size ranged between 6 and 61 nm. The proposed method for the nanoparticles synthesis and impregnation were demonstrated to be simple and eco‐friendly. Impregnated carbons presented significant nitrate removal (about 60 %) thus indicating their potential application in water treatment.
Data‐driven flotation reagent changing evaluation via union distribution analysis of bubble size and shape
Authors: Ai Mingxi , Xie Yongfang , Xu Degang , Gui Weihua , Yang Chunhua
Published: March 2018

Due to the frequent fluctuation of the ore grade and other random disturbances in the flotation process, reagents need to be changed in real time to achieve desired metallurgical parameters. To avoid erratic operation, a data‐driven reagent evaluation model was proposed. It is insensitive for bubble size distribution to differentiate froth surface images with a similar average bubble size but different grade. Since bubble shape is heavily influenced by froth grade, and bubble deformation is positively correlated to the froth grade in industry, a novel froth image feature named the union distribution of bubble size and shape was developed. Then, a multi‐output least square support vector regressor was introduced to develop a dynamic causal model to simulate the relationship between the reagents and the produced future froth surface appearance feature. Next, the health status of the reagents is rated by recognizing the category of predicted future froth. Under guidance from this reagent evaluation model, the rationality of reagent dosages can be obtained in priority. The proposed method was applied in a gold‐antimony flotation plant located in Hunan, China. It improved the efficiency of froth flotation and reduced false reagent operation.
Asymmetric Transfer and Pressure Hydrogenation with Earth‐Abundant Transition Metal Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Zhenfeng , Butt Nicholas Andrew , Zhou Muxing , Liu Delong , Zhang Wanbin
Published: March 2018

The asymmetric transfer and pressure hydrogenation of various unsaturated substrates provides a succinct pathway to important chiral intermediates and products such as chiral alcohols, amines, and alkanes. The use of earth‐abundant transition metals such as Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu in hydrogenation reactions provides an attractive alternative to traditionally used metals such as Ru, Rh, Ir, and Pd because they are comparatively inexpensive, less toxic, and as their name suggests, more abundant in nature. Earth‐abundant transition metal‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation is rapidly becoming an important area of research. This review summarizes advances in the asymmetric hydrogenation of unsaturated bonds (ketones, imines, and alkenes) with earth‐abundant transition metals.
Sustained sex‐based treatment differences in acute coronary syndrome care: Insights from the American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines Coronary Artery Disease Registry
Authors: Udell Jacob A. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Maddox Thomas M. , Cannon Christopher P. , Frank Peacock W. , Laskey Warren K. , Grau‐Sepulveda Maria V. , Smith Eric E. , Hernandez Adrian F. , Peterson Eric D. , Bhatt Deepak L. ,   for the Get With The Guidelines Steering Committee and Investigators
Published: March 2018

Background

Sex‐based differences in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) mortality may attenuate with age due to better symptom recognition and prompt care.

Hypothesis

Age is a modifier of temporal trends in sex‐based differences in ACS care.

Methods

Among 104 817 eligible patients with ACS enrolled in the AHA Get With the Guidelines–Coronary Artery Disease registry between 2003 and 2008, care and in‐hospital mortality were evaluated stratified by sex and age. Temporal trends within sex and age groups were assessed for 2 care processes: percentage of STEMI patients presenting to PCI‐capable hospitals with a DTB time ≤ 90 minutes (DTB90) and proportion of eligible ACS patients receiving aspirin within 24 hours.

Results

After adjustment for clinical risk factors and sociodemographic and hospital characteristics, 2276 (51.7%) women and 6276 (56.9%) men with STEMI were treated with DTB90 (adjusted OR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.80–0.91, P < 0.0001 for women vs men). Time trend analysis showed an absolute increase ranging from 24% to 35% in DTB90 rates among both men and women (P for trend <0.0001 for each group), with consistent differences over time across the 4 age/sex groups (3‐way P‐interaction = 0.93). Despite high rate of baseline aspirin use (87%–91%), there was a 9% to 11% absolute increase in aspirin use over time, also with consistent differences across the 4 age/sex groups (all 3‐way P‐interaction ≥0.15).

Conclusions

Substantial gains of generally similar magnitude existed in ACS performance measures over 6 years of study across sex and age groups; areas for improvement remain, particularly among younger women.
Regional chemoarchitecture of the brain of lungfishes based on calbindin D‐28K and calretinin immunohistochemistry
Authors: Morona Ruth , López Jesús M. , Northcutt R. Glenn , González Agustín
Published: March 2018

Lungfishes are the closest living relatives of land vertebrates, and their neuroanatomical organization is particularly relevant for deducing the neural traits that have been conserved, modified, or lost with the transition from fishes to land vertebrates. The immunohistochemical localization of calbindin (CB) and calretinin (CR) provides a powerful method for discerning segregated neuronal populations, fiber tracts, and neuropils and is here applied to the brains ofNeoceratodusandProtopterus, representing the two extant orders of lungfishes. The results showed abundant cells containing these proteins in pallial and subpallial telencephalic regions, with particular distinct distribution in the basal ganglia, amygdaloid complex, and septum. Similarly, the distribution of CB and CR containing cells supports the division of the hypothalamus of lungfishes into neuromeric regions, as in tetrapods. The dense concentrations of CB and CR positive cells and fibers highlight the extent of the thalamus. As in other vertebrates, the optic tectum is characterized by numerous CB positive cells and fibers and smaller numbers of CR cells. The so‐called cerebellar nucleus contains abundant CB and CR cells with long ascending axons, which raises the possibility that it could be homologized to the secondary gustatory nucleus of other vertebrates. The corpus of the cerebellum is devoid of CB and CR and cells positive for both proteins are found in the cerebellar auricles and the octavolateralis nuclei. Comparison with other vertebrates reveals that lungfishes share most of their features of calcium binding protein distribution with amphibians, particularly with salamanders.
The koniocellular whiteboard
Authors: Martin Paul R. , Solomon Samuel G.
Published: March 2018

In 1994 Vivien Casagrande published a review paper in which she summarized evidence for a koniocellular pathway to visual cortex. Here we try to explain how that review moved the field forward, and summarize some key unanswered questions about koniocellular pathways.