bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipid transfer to high‐density lipoproteins in coronary artery disease patients with and without previous cerebrovascular ischemic events
Authors: Barbosa Carlos J.D.G. , Maranhão Raul C. , Barreiros Renata S. , Freitas Fatima R. , Franci André , Strunz Célia M.C. , Arantes Flávia B.B. , Tavoni Thauany M. , Ramires José A.F. , Kalil Filho Roberto , Nicolau José C.
Published: September 2019

Background

Patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and previous ischemic cerebrovascular events (ICVE, ischemic stroke, or transitory ischemic attack) constitute a high‐risk subgroup for cardiovascular outcomes. High‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) levels are correlated with cardiovascular events. Lipid transfer to HDL affects structure size and HDL subclass profile. Impairment of this transfer could influence ischemic risk seen in patients with CAD + ICVE. The objective was to evaluate the HDL ability to receive the lipids in patients with CAD with or without ICVE.

Methods

Patients with CAD + ICVE (n = 60) and patients with CAD only (n = 60) were matched by age, sex, acute coronary syndromes (ACS) event type, and time elapsed between the ACS event and inclusion in the study. Lipid transfer to HDL was evaluated by incubating donor lipid nanoparticles labeled with radioactive unesterified cholesterol (UC) and esterified cholesterol (EC), phospholipid (PL), and triglyceride (TG) with whole plasma. After the chemical precipitation of non‐HDL fractions and nanoparticles, the supernatant was counted for HDL radioactivity.

Results

CAD + ICVE group presented with impaired lipid transfer to HDL for PL (CAD + ICVE: 21.14 ± 2.7% vs CAD: 21.67 ± 3.1%, P = .03), TG (CAD + ICVE: 4.88 ± 0.97% vs CAD: 5.63 ± 0.92%, P = .002), and UC (CAD + ICVE: 5.55 ± 1.19% vs CAD: 6.16 ± 1.14%, P = .009). Lipid transfer to HDL was similar in both groups for EC. Adjusted models showed similar results.

Conclusion

Patients with CAD and ICVE have reduced lipid transfer to HDL compared to those with CAD only. Dysfunctional HDL may account for the higher incidence of ischemic outcomes observed in this population.
The influence of television on the food habits of schoolchildren and its association with dental caries
Authors: Silva Regina de Nazaré Marreiros Tavares , Duarte Danilo Antonio , de Oliveira Arlete Maria Gomes
Published: September 2019

Objectives

The consumption of food with a high‐sugar content is encouraged by the food industry through television (TV) aimed at children and may be associated with dental caries. This study aims to evaluate the influence of TV on the food habits of schoolchildren aged years and its association with dental caries.

Material and methods

This was an observational, epidemiological, and cross‐sectional study. Five neighborhoods of Belem District were selected, and then two schools from each neighborhood were drawn (one private and one public). All sixth and seventh grade students were selected. Data were extracted from questionnaires completed by schoolchildren and their parents and the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT/dmft) indices of the schoolchildren. The indices were carried out by three examiners previously calibrated (κ > .80). Logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the association of variables of study with consumption of cariogenic foods and occurrence of dental caries. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results

Schoolchildren who watched TV for >90 min were more likely to consume cariogenic foods (OR = 2.38; 95% CI [1.57, 3.60]) and have a DMFT + dmft >1 (OR = 2.10; 95% CI [1.37, 3.26]). Those who consumed cariogenic foods while watching TV were more likely to have DMFT + dmft >1 (OR = 14.75; 95% CI [8.24, 6.40]). Parents who bought foods they saw on TV contributed to a higher consumption of cariogenic foods (OR = 3.29; 95% CI [2.07, 5.24]) and DMFT + dmft >1 (OR = 3.93; 95% CI [2.09, 7.37]) among their children.

Conclusions

TV can influence the eating habits of schoolchildren aged 10 to 12 and the food purchases of their parents, stimulating the consumption of cariogenic foods and contributing to the development of dental caries.
Enantiomerically Pure Pentadienyl Rhodium(I) and Iridium(I) Complexes – Their Synthesis and Reactivity
Authors: Fecker Ann Christin , Münster Katharina , Freytag Matthias , Jones Peter G. , Walter Marc D.
Published: September 2019

Reactions of [(η4‐COD)M(µ‐Cl)]2 (M = Rh, Ir) with the potassium pentadienides (KPdl*) derived from (1R)‐(–)‐myrtenal allowed the corresponding enantiomerically pure RhI and IrI compounds [(η4‐COD)M(η5‐Pdl*)] to be isolated. Full characterization of these species was accomplished by NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and X‐ray diffraction studies. Notably, the coordination modes of the Pdl* ligands vary in the solid‐state structure of the Ir and Rh compounds. While η5‐U coordination with a fully delocalized negative charge within the Pdl* moiety was achieved in the IrI derivatives, the structures for the RhI analogues are best described by a η3:η2‐U coordination in which the metal slips into an allyl–ene structure. Furthermore, while only one species was observed for the IrI compounds in solution consistent with their molecular structures established in solid state, the solution behavior of the RhI derivatives is more complex. In these cases a mixture of isomers, which are in chemical equilibrium with each other, are observed. The major isomer exhibits NMR signatures that are in line with the solid‐state structures of these molecules. The minor component, however, is derived from a rotation of the myrtenal moiety to yield a η3‐S coordinated Pdl* ligand. Exposure of [(η4‐COD)Ir(η5‐Pdl*)] to H2 rapidly forms Ir (nano)particles, resulting from the initial hydrogenation of the Pdl* moiety. Intermediates with a partially hydrogenated Pdl*‐ligand were successfully isolated.
Organocatalytic Asymmetric Synthesis of Tetrahydrofuran and 1,2‐Dihydrobenzofuran Scaffolds
Authors: Chavan Lahu N. , Mainkar Prathama S. , Chandrasekhar S.
Published: September 2019

Asymmetric synthesis of substituted tetrahydrofurans and dibenzofurans is emerging as a challenging field. Use of organocatalysis has been explored extensively to achieve the asymmetry involves mild conditions and control over enantio‐ and diastereoselectivity for the synthesis of substituted THF and DHB. A review of various conditions and catalysts developed so far towards the synthesis of substituted tetrahydrofuran and dibenzofuran are presented here.
Evaluation of Polyphenols in Wine by Voltammetric Techniques with Screen Printed Carbon Electrodes
Authors: Rocha Pedro , Vilas‐Boas Ângela , Fontes Natacha , Geraldo Dulce , Bento Fátima
Published: September 2019

The electrochemical oxidation processes that occur during a voltammetric assay in wine samples lead to the formation of species that obstructs the surface and reduce their active area. This effect is critical for screen printed carbon electrodes (SPCE) and leads to abnormal low values of the total polyphenols content of wines, ca. 72 % lower than those obtained with glassy carbon electrodes. This effect was examined using 10 red and Port wine samples. Mechanical polishing and electrochemical‐based treatments for the removal of this fouling layer were tested. The best results were obtained by electrochemical activation in at a constant potential of 1.2 V during 100 s Na2CO3 saturated solution, and by polishing.

The success of some of these treatments brings an added value to SPCE, as it opens the possibility of their reuse in the wine analysis. This outcome is particularly relevant for quality control where a huge number of analysis is performed and the reduction of cost may dictates the choice of the analytical method.
A Photoelectrochemical Biosensor Fabricated using Hierarchically Structured Gold Nanoparticle and MoS2 on Tannic Acid Templated Mesoporous TiO2
Authors: Çakıroğlu Bekir , Özacar Mahmut
Published: September 2019

In a tannic acid assisted synthesis of mesoporous TiO2, tannic acid was used as a cost effective and non‐toxic template for pore formation. Meanwhile, a gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) deposited TiO2 nanocomposite was coated on an indium tin oxide electrode for the fabrication of a photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensing system. Upon the formation of anatase structure, the electrode was coated with MoS2 for effective visible light absorption. The mesoporous structure led to an enhanced surface area by improving Au NPs and glucose oxidase adsorption. Incorporation of Au NPs led to an enhanced photonic efficiency due to the generation of Schottky barriers. The obtained nanocomposite was used for the light‐driven, real‐time, and selective PEC glucose sensing. Under visible light irradiation, the enzyme immobilized electrodes yielded significant photocurrent improvement owing to the releasing electron donor H2O2. The obtained PEC biosensor demonstrated acceptable reproducibility and stability with a sensitivity of 4.42 μA mM−1 cm−2 and a low detection limit of 1.2 μM glucose. Also, the linear measurement range was found to be 0.004–1.75 mM glucose. The results indicated that the proposed production method of mesoporous TiO2 will pave the way for a green chemistry based porous material production, along with the extension of the implementation of semiconductors in PEC biosensing systems.
Pattern Recognition of Sweeteners in Biological Fluids, Beverages, and Ketchup using Stochastic Sensors
Authors: Stefan‐van Staden Raluca‐Ioana , Moscalu‐Lungu Alexandrina , van Staden Jacobus Frederick
Published: September 2019

Three stochastic sensors based on nanodiamond (nDP) paste modified with α, β, and γ‐cyclodextrin were designed and characterized for pattern recognition of aspartame, acesulfame K and sodium cyclamate in beverages, ketchup, and biological fluids. The linear concentration ranges obtained for acesulfame K (between 1.00×10−10 mol L−1and 1.00×10−3 mol L−1), for aspartame (between 1.00×10−12 mol L−1 and 1.00×10−3 mol L−1) and for sodium cyclamate (between 4.97×10−12 mol L−1 and 4.97×10−3 mol L−1) allow their assay in biological fluids, beverages and ketchup. The lowest limits of quantification were obtained using the stochastic sensor based on γ‐CD/nDP: for acesulfame K 1.00×10−10 mol L−1, for aspartame 1.00×10−12 mol L−1 and for sodium cyclamate 4.97×10−12 mol L−1. All three stochastic sensors revealed very high values of sensitivities. The proposed method was reliable for qualitative and quantitative assay of aspartame, acesulfame K and sodium cyclamate in beverages, ketchup, and in biological fluids such as urine.
Caffeic Acid Genotoxicity: Correlation of the Pig‐a Assay with Regulatory Genetic Toxicology In Vivo Endpoints
Authors: Bhalli Javed A. , Neft Robin , Noteboom Jessica , Tebbe Cameron C. , Chan Michelle , Kuhn Kylie , Pearce Gareth , Jordan Liam , Beevers Carol
Published: September 2019

Caffeic acid is found in variety of fruits and vegetables. It is considered as possible human carcinogen (Group 2B). It is negative in Ames and mouse micronucleus (MN), but positive in mouse lymphoma and chromosomal aberration assays. The objective of this study was to evaluate the in vivo genotoxicity of caffeic acid using three different endpoints: in vivo MN, Pig‐a, and comet assay. Two sets of six rats per group were administered vehicle (0.5% hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), 500, 1,000, or 2,000 mg/kg/day of caffeic acid for three consecutive days via oral gavage. One set of animals was used for the Pig‐a and MN assay and the other set was used for the comet assay. N‐Ethyl N‐Nitrosourea was used as positive control for the Pig‐a and MN assay, and ethyl methanesulfonate for the comet assay. From one set of animals, peripheral blood was collected on Days −1, 14, and 30 for the Pig‐a assay and on Day 4 for the MN assay. The other set of animals was euthanized 3 hr after the last dose; liver and blood were collected for the comet assay. A statistically significant increase in the MN frequency was observed at 2,000 mg/kg/day. No increase in the red blood cells (RBCCD59‐) or reticulocytes (RETCD59‐) Pig‐a mutant frequencies was observed on Days 14 or 30. No increase in DNA strand breaks was observed in the peripheral blood or liver in the comet assay. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On‐Chip Microsupercapacitors: From Material to Fabrication
Authors: Wang Xiaozhang , Zhang Qunming
Published: September 2019

Microsupercapacitors (MSCs) are integrated into microdevices or chip‐based systems to store energy and power the chip efficiently, as they present excellent performance capabilities including high power density, fast charge/discharge rate, and long cycle time. Providing sufficient surface area and high electric conductivity are effective ways to enhance ion diffusion and charge transportation in electrodes, which in turn leads to high performance behavior. Herein, the novel progress of on‐chip MSCs in the past few years ranging from active materials synthesis to high‐resolution fabrication techniques is summarized, and the strategies to enhance the performance of MSCs are focused upon. From conventional materials to nanocomposite hybrid structures, the main active materials for MSC electrodes and the related fabrication techniques are reviewed in detail according to their different electrochemical performance. It is concluded that hierarchical porous‐structured materials and high‐resolution fabrication processes are of great importance in constructing high‐performance devices, which also demonstrates the future developing direction of on‐chip energy devices. The new developments of fabrication technologies such as microfabrication, laser direct writing, and inkjet printing are also discussed to show their advantages in forming high‐performance electrodes.
Amorphous Sb2S3 Anodes by Reactive Radio Frequency Magnetron Sputtering for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Half/Full Cells
Authors: Wang Qi , Lai Yanqing , Liu Fangyang , Jiang Liangxing , Jia Ming
Published: September 2019

Herein, amorphous Sb2S3 (a‐Sb2S3) anodes are prepared on 3D conductive networks by a simple reactive radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering process, and their application feasibility in both a lithium half cell and LiFePO4 full cell is assessed. The a‐Sb2S3 electrodes exhibit excellent cycling performance and rate capacity in the half cells, owing to the amorphous phase and 3D structure, and thus yield a high discharge capacity of 585.4 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.2 C after 250 cycles. Moreover, the assembled a‐Sb2S3/LiFePO4 full cell can deliver 467.1 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 1000 mA g−1 even after 100 cycles. The prepared a‐Sb2S3 shows great potential to be a promising alternative anode in the application of high‐electrochemical‐performance lithium‐ion batteries.
Weakly symmetric stress equilibration for hyperelastic material models
Authors: Bertrand Fleurianne , Moldenhauer Marcel , Starke Gerhard
Published: September 2019

A stress equilibration procedure for hyperelastic material models is proposed and analyzed in this paper. Based on the displacement‐pressure approximation computed with a stable finite element pair, it constructs, in a vertex‐patch‐wise manner, an H(div)‐conforming approximation to the first Piola‐Kirchhoff stress. This is done in such a way that its associated Cauchy stress is weakly symmetric in the sense that its antisymmetric part is zero tested against continuous piecewise linear functions. Our main result is the identification of the subspace of test functions perpendicular to the range of the local equilibration system on each patch which turn out to be rigid body modes associated with the current configuration. Momentum balance properties are investigated analytically and numerically and the resulting stress reconstruction is shown to provide improved results for surface traction forces by computational experiments.
Green Synthesis of 8‐Hydroxyquinoline Barium as Visible‐Light‐Excited Luminescent Material Using Mechanochemical Activation Method
Authors: Liu Junchen , Zhong Xueming , Xu Yuna , Li Yanrong
Published: September 2019

Using high‐energy UV‐light to excite 8‐hydroxyquinoline barium (BaQ2) is a short slab for this emerging area of organic luminescent materials. However, using visible light to excite BaQ2 has not been reported. To solve this problem, this study proposes the mechanochemical activation method to synthesize luminescent material of visible‐light‐excited BaQ2. This research applies infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectrometry to analyze the structure and luminescence properties. XRD shows that BaQ2 has a high crystallinity, small crystalline size, and high purity. According to the Scherrer equation, the mean particle size is 56 nm. The results of fluorescence spectrometry show that the excitation spectrum of the product is red‐shifted, and the maximum excitation wavelength is 408 nm. According to these results, the product has a high fluorescence and can be excited under visible light. This research explains the high efficiency of the mechanochemical‐activation method by thermodynamic and dynamic principles. This research also exemplifies luminescence theory of BaQ2 and at the microlevel explains the theory of visible‐light‐excited theory and the principle of luminescent intensity enhancement from the point of crystallography.
Factors associated with employment discontinuation among older and working age survivors of oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Check Devon K. , Hutcheson Katherine A. , Poisson Laila M. , Pocobelli Gaia , Sakoda Lori C. , Zaveri Jhankruti , Chang Steven S. , Chubak Jessica
Published: September 2019

Background

Oropharyngeal cancer survivors experience difficulty returning to work after treatment. To better understand specific barriers to returning to work, we investigated factors associated with discontinuing employment among older and working‐age survivors.

Methods

The sample included 675 oropharyngeal cancer survivors (median: 6 years posttreatment) diagnosed from 2000 to 2013 and employed at diagnosis. Relative risk models were constructed to examine the independent associations of demographic and health factors, and symptom experiences per the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory ‐ Head and Neck Module (MDASI‐HN) with posttreatment employment, overall and by age (<60 years vs ≥60 years at survey).

Results

Symptom interference was not statistically significantly associated with posttreatment employment status among respondents ≥60 years. Among working‐age respondents <60 years, symptom interference was strongly associated with posttreatment employment.

Conclusions

Efforts to assess and lessen symptom burden in working‐age survivors should be evaluated as approaches to support regaining core functions needed for continued employment.
Liver Transplantation in Unauthorized Immigrants in the United States
Authors: Lee Brian P. , Terrault Norah A.
Published: September 2019

Background and Aims

Eleven million unauthorized immigrants reside in the United States and may account for 3% of deceased organ donors. Recently introduced federal and state legislation propose to address access to organ transplantation among unauthorized immigrants. The national landscape of liver transplantation (LT) for unauthorized immigrants is unknown.

Approach and Results

We included all US LT recipients between March 2012 and December 2018 who were linked to Pew Center of Research data to estimate the population of unauthorized immigrants in each US state and by country of origin, based on US Census data. We categorized patients as unauthorized immigrants versus US citizens/residents. The main outcome measures were (1) the proportion of LTs performed for unauthorized immigrants compared with the proportion of unauthorized immigrants among total population in each US state and (2) graft failure and death post‐LT. Of 43,192 LT recipients, 43,026 (99.6%) were US citizens/residents and 166 (0.4%) were unauthorized immigrants. Among unauthorized immigrants, most LTs were performed in California (47%) and New York (18%). The absolute difference in proportion of LTs performed for unauthorized immigrants compared with the proportion of unauthorized immigrants among the total population differed among states, ranging from +20% in California to −12% in Texas. The most common countries of birth among LT recipients who were unauthorized immigrants were Mexico (52%), Guatemala (7%), China (6%), El Salvador (5%), and India (5%). In competing risk analysis, unauthorized immigration status (vs. US citizens/residents) was associated with a similar risk of graft failure (subdistribution hazard ratio [sHR] 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.40‐1.34; P = 0.38) and death (sHR 0.68; 95% CI, 0.36‐1.29; P = 0.23).

Conclusions

LT for unauthorized immigrants is rare, and disparities in access to LT by state are present. Patient and graft survival among unauthorized immigrants is comparable with citizens/residents.
Role of mixed nanofluids on fluid flow and intensify energy transfer in a boundary layer region driven by a free convective force
Authors: Ammani Kuttan B. , Manjunatha S. , Jayanthi S. , Gireesha B. J.
Published: September 2019

This research study explores boundary layer flow and intensification of heat transfer through a porous medium accompanied by buoyant forces with the support of appended mixed nanofluids. The generated partial differentiation model is altered to a couple of the highly complicated nonlinear differentiation model by support of the similarity conversion. The resultant model is then resolved by the shooting method for finding the initial approximation and thereafter the Runge‐Kutta‐Fehlberg 45th‐order method is used to get the desired result. The energy transfer and the flow of mixed nanofluids are analyzed by considering vital factors, like convection, porous and volume fraction. The acquired results fairly agree with erstwhile published articles. The major finding is that for greater values of the volume fraction, both fluid flow and energy transfer of a mixed nanofluid will be greater when compared with a regular nanofluid.
Response to name in children with autism: Treatment, generalization, and maintenance
Authors: Conine Daniel E. , Vollmer Timothy R. , Bolívar Hypatia A.
Published: September 2019

Deficits in response to name (RTN) are an early indicator of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and RTN is a treatment goal in many early intervention curricula for children with ASD. However, little research has empirically evaluated methods for increasing RTN in children with ASD. We evaluated a series of conditions designed to increase RTN for 4 children with ASD using a multielement experimental design. The schedules of tangible reinforcement were thinned after mastery and generalization was tested across people and contexts. Tangible reinforcers were necessary to increase RTN for all 4 participants, and the schedule of reinforcement was successfully thinned with all participants after intervention. Generalization was also observed across people and experimental contexts.
Hesperidin suppressed hepatic precancerous lesions via modulation of exophagy in rats
Authors: Hasanin Amany H. , Matboli Marwa , Seleem Hanan S.
Published: September 2019

The enormous cost of modern medicines warrants alternative strategies for the better management of hepatocellular carcinoma. Recently, exosomes have been shown to relay the oncogenic information through the horizontal transfer of RNAs between the cells. In this study, we modulated exosomal production and autophagy (exophagy) by the administration of hesperidin and evaluated its effect on the development of hepatic precancerous lesion (HPC) in rats. Diethylnitrosamine and 2‐acetylaminofluorene were used in vivo to induce HPC in rats. Rats were allocated into five groups: naïve, HPC, and three hesperidin treated (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg/d; orally) for 4 consecutive days per week for 16 weeks. Liver tissues and blood samples were collected for histopathological, immunohistochemical, and transmission electron microscope examinations, liver function, alfa‐fetoprotein level, and isolation of exosomal and autophagy RNAs. Hesperidin administration showed hepato‐protective effects and improved the microscopic hepatic features with a decrease in glutathione S‐transferase placental precancerous foci and the abundance of exosomes in liver tissues. Hesperidin improved liver function with a significant decrease in alfa‐fetoprotein levels. Hesperidin dose‐dependently decreased exosomal RAB11A messsenger RNA and long noncoding RNA‐RP11‐583F2.2 along with the increase in exosomal miR‐1298, involved in the exophagy process. In conclusion, hesperidin likely suppresses liver carcinogenesis in rat model via the modulation of exosomal secretion and autophagy.
Lung tissue extracellular matrix‐derived hydrogels protect against radiation‐induced lung injury by suppressing epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Zhou Jing , Wu Pengfei , Sun Hongyu , Zhou Hong , Zhang Yaolei , Xiao Zhenliang
Published: September 2019

This study aimed to examine whether lung tissue extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogels have protective effects on radiation‐induced lung injury (RILI). The cytocompatibility and histocompatibility were tested for the obtained ECM‐derived hydrogel. Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups (n = 18): control group (control); rats receiving irradiation and intratracheal injection of normal saline (IR + NS); and rats receiving irradiation and intratracheal injection of lung ECM‐derived hydrogel (IR + ECM). The wet/dry weight ratio was used to evaluate the congestion and edema of the lungs. Histopathological analysis of lung tissues was performed using hemotoxylin and eosin staining and Masson's trichrome staining. Immunohistochemical staining and western blot analyses were carried out to determine the expression of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)‐related proteins in lung tissues (E‐cadherin, α‐smooth muscle actin [α‐SMA], and vimentin). In addition, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), hydroxyproline, malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were also evaluated. The ECM‐derived hydrogels had good cytocompatibility and histocompatibility. ECM‐derived hydrogel treatment improved lung histopathology injury and pulmonary edema. Higher expression of E‐cadherin and lower expression of vimentin and α‐SMA were found in the IR + ECM group compared with those in the IR + NS group. Hydroxyproline levels were reduced by ECM‐derived hydrogel treatment compared with those in the IR + NS group. Obvious increases of TNF‐α, IL‐6, and TGF‐β1 were identified following irradiation. Marked reductions in MDA content and increases in SOD were induced by ECM‐derived hydrogel treatment in rats after radiation. ECM‐derived hydrogels were shown to protect against RILI, potentially by reducing EMT, inflammation, and oxidative damage.
APC/Cdh1 targets PECAM‐1 for ubiquitination and degradation in endothelial cells
Authors: Liu Jia , Yao Qinyu , Xiao Lei , Li Fan , Ma Wen , Zhang Zihui , Xie Xinya , Yang Chunmiao , Cui Qi , Tian Ying , Zhang Chao , Lai Baochang , Wang Nanping
Published: September 2019

Platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 (PECAM‐1) is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily and is expressed by hematopoietic and endothelial cells (ECs). Recent studies have shown that PECAM‐1 plays a crucial role in promoting the development of the EC inflammatory response in the context of disturbed flow. However, the mechanistic pathways that control PECAM‐1 protein stability remain largely unclear. Here, we identified PECAM‐1 as a novel substrate of the APC/Cdh1 E3 ubiquitin ligase. Specifically, lentivirus‐mediated Cdh1 depletion stabilized PECAM‐1 in ECs. Conversely, overexpression of Cdh1 destabilized PECAM‐1. The proteasome inhibitor MG132 blocked Cdh1‐mediated PECAM‐1 degradation. In addition, Cdh1 promoted K48‐linked polyubiquitination of PECAM‐1 in a destruction box‐dependent manner. Furthermore, we demonstrated that compared with pulsatile shear stress (PS), oscillatory shear stress decreased the expression of Cdh1 and the ubiquitination of PECAM‐1, therefore stabilizing PECAM‐1 to promote inflammation in ECs. Hence, our study revealed a novel mechanism by which fluid flow patterns regulate EC homeostasis via Cdh1‐dependent ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of PECAM‐1.
A large‐scale transcriptome analysis identified ELANE and PRTN3 as novel methylation prognostic signatures for clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wei Zhongheng , Wu Bo , Wang Li , Zhang Juan
Published: September 2019

DNA methylation was involved in the progress of many types of cancer including clear cell renal cell carcinomas (ccRCCs). This study aimed to identify the prognostic DNA methylation biomarkers for the ccRCCs by a large‐scale RNA‐seq analysis. The DNA methylation data and the corresponding clinical information of the patients with ccRCCs were extracted from TCGA database and randomly divided into the training group and the validation group. The differentially expressed CpG sites and the survival‐related CpG sites were further identified, which was combined into CpG sites pair and followed by screening the survival‐related pairs. The C‐index and the forward search algorithms were constructed to identify the prognostic signatures for the patients with ccRCCs. The prognostic signatures were verified by the validation dataset and the protein–protein interactions (PPI) network analysis was performed on the CPG sites of the signature. A total of 9,861 differentially expressed CPG sites were identified and 567 CpG sites were found to relate to the overall survival (OS) of the patients with ccRCCs. Besides, 1,146 CPG sites pairs were found to be related to the OS of the ccRCCs samples and the signature composed of seven CpG sites pairs were obtained to predict the prognosis of patients with ccRCCs and the results were verified in the validation dataset. Besides, the PPI network analysis showed that ELANE and PRTN3 gene may be associated with the invasion and metastasis of ccRCCs and could function as potential prognostic and therapeutic signatures for ccRCCs.
A new method for locating Kikuchi bands in electron backscatter diffraction patterns
Authors: Zhang Yongsheng , Fang Shangqiang , Lin Chucheng , Zhang Jimei , Jiang Caifen , Zeng Yi , Huang Fuqiang , Miao Hong
Published: September 2019

Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) device can provide crystal structure, orientation, and phase content data through analysis of EBSD patterns. The reliability and precision of these data depend on the quality of the band position and zone axes data. This study introduces a new image processing method that can accurately provide the location of Kikuchi bands and poles. In this method, pattern rotation and gray gradient calculation are employed after for the initial detection of Kikuchi lines. Hough transform and Gaussian function are used for the final definition of bands position. Based on the position of Kikuchi bands, the indices of lattice planes and zone axes can be obtained precisely and easily. Angles between zone axes are calculated using locating results. The maximum error for a single‐crystal silicon sample is only 8.07%, illustrating the accuracy of this new method.
Hypereosinophilia‐related liver pseudotumor with elevated interleukin‐5 levels preceding T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Tsuchiya Atsunori , Tanaka Tomoyuki , Shibasaki Yasuhiko , Terai Shuji
Published: September 2019

A 61‐year‐old woman with hypereosinophilia and elevated interleukin (IL)‐5 level was admitted to our hospital after detection of multiple liver tumors. Liver biopsy demonstrated that the tumor consisted of scar tissue with remnants of eosinophilic infiltration, suggesting that it had formed by massive eosinophilic infiltration. The hypereosinophilia was treated mainly by prednisolone, and thereafter, the liver tumors disappeared. However, 10 months postadmission, CD4+ T‐cell lymphoma, which can produce IL‐5, was detected in the nasopharynx and oropharynx. Therefore, we believe that this is a rare case of hypereosinophilia‐related liver pseudotumor induced by presumed by IL‐5 elevation.
Compartmental function and modulation of the striatum
Authors: Prager Eric M. , Plotkin Joshua L.
Published: September 2019

The striatum plays a central role in guiding numerous complex behaviors, ranging from motor control to action selection and reward learning. The diverse responsibilities of the striatum are reflected by the complexity of its organization. In this review, we will summarize what is currently known about the compartmental layout of the striatum, an organizational principle that is crucial for allowing the striatum to guide such a diverse array of behaviors. We will focus on the anatomical and functional properties of striosome (patch) and matrix compartments of the striatum, and how the engagement of these compartments is uniquely controlled by their afferents, intrinsic properties, and neuromodulation. We will give examples of how advances in technology have opened the door to functionally dissecting the striatum's compartmental design, and close by offering thoughts on the future and relevance for human disease.
Single‐Fiber Laser Ablation in Treating Selected Metastatic Lymph Nodes of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma and Benign Cold Thyroid Nodules—Preliminary Results
Authors: Guo YuQing , Li ZhiXian , Wang SiDa , Liao XianShan , Li Chen
Published: September 2019

Background and Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of single‐fiber laser ablation (LA) under ultrasound guidance and appropriate ablation modes in the treatment of selected metastatic lymph nodes of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and benign cold thyroid nodules

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A total of 18 patients (consisting of 8 patients with 18 metastatic lymph nodes of PTC and 10 patients with 10 benign cold thyroid nodules) each underwent one session of single‐fiber LA under ultrasound guidance. On the basis of the sizes of the nodules, the ablation modes were chosen accordingly. The single‐dot ablation mode was used in the nodules with three orthogonal diameters measuring no greater than 10 mm in diameter, with a dot, a level and an insertion. The double‐dots overlapping ablation mode was used in the nodules with the largest diameters measuring greater than 10 mm (in which the nodules measured no more than 15 mm in diameter and with the other two perpendicular diameters measuring no greater than 10 mm in diameter) with two dots, a level and two insertions. The multiple levels and dots overlapping ablation mode was used in the nodules with the three orthogonal diameters all measuring larger than 10 mm, with multiple dots, levels and insertions.

Results

After 12 months of follow‐up in the treated nodules of the metastatic lymph nodes of PTC and benign cold thyroid nodules, the mean baseline volumes decreased from 0.29 ± 0.12  to 0.03 ± 0.03 ml and 3.85 ± 0.64 to 1.1 ± 0.37 ml, respectively, and the mean volume reduction ratios (VRRs), which was calculated as {[(initial volume−final volume) × 100%]/initial volume}, were 90.3 ± 7.6% and 72 ± 5.8%, respectively. There were six ablative zones that completely disappeared, whereas the ablative zones that still existed presented as scar‐like areas or small hyperechoic areas that were compatible with scar tissue among the 18 malignant nodules at the last follow‐up.

Conclusions

Single‐fiber LA under ultrasound guidance, with the appropriate ablation modes, is feasible and effective for the treatment of selected metastatic lymph nodes of PTC and benign cold thyroid nodules. This study suggests that single‐fiber LA may be applied to selected cases with appropriate ablation modes. Lasers Surg. Med. 2019 © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Covalently Binding of Bovine Serum Albumin to Unsaturated Poly(Globalide‐Co‐ε‐Caprolactone) Nanoparticles by Thiol‐Ene Reactions
Authors: Guindani Camila , Frey Marie‐Luise , Simon Johanna , Koynov Kaloian , Schultze Jennifer , Ferreira Sandra R. S. , Araújo Pedro H. H. , de Oliveira Débora , Wurm Frederik R. , Mailänder Volker , Landfester Katharina
Published: September 2019

When nanoparticles (NPs) are introduced to a biological fluid, different proteins (and other biomolecules) rapidly get adsorbed onto their surface, forming a protein corona capable of giving to the NPs a new “identity” and determine their biological fate. Protein–nanoparticle conjugation can be used in order to promote specific interactions between living systems and nanocarriers. Non‐covalent conjugates are less stable and more susceptible to desorption in biological media, which makes the development of engineered nanoparticle surfaces by covalent attachment an interesting topic. In this work, the surface of poly(globalide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone) (PGlCL) nanoparticles containing double bonds in the main polymer chain is covalently functionalized with bovine serum albumin (BSA) by thiol‐ene chemistry, producing conjugates which are resistant to dissociation. The successful formation of the covalent conjugates is confirmed by flow cytometry (FC) and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) allows the visualization of the conjugate formation, and the presence of a protein layer surrounding the NPs can be observed. After conjugation with BSA, NPs present reduced cell uptake by HeLa and macrophage RAW264.7 cells, in comparison to uncoated NP. These results demonstrate that it is possible to produce stable conjugates by covalently binding BSA to PGlCL NP through thiol‐ene reaction.
Bio‐Based Nanofibers Involved in Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Gandavadi Dhanush , Sundarrajan Subramanian , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: September 2019

Studies involving bio‐based nanofibers are well utilized in the field of energy, catalysis, electronics, and environmental science. In this review, the importance of utilizing bio‐based materials for the development and optimization of multiplexed nanofibers and the modifications adopted to overcome the drawbacks of conventional electro‐spinning to facilitate better production rates, enhanced adsorption, and its potential in removing heavy metal ions, dyes, and other contaminants polluting the environment are highlighted. This work provides the readers the ability to understand the complexity in fabrication of bio‐based nanofibers focusing primarily on chitosan, cellulose, and protein‐based nanofibers and their mechanism toward quenching/degradation of water contaminants. In addition, it also provides the advantages of using bio‐based materials over synthetic materials for the development of nanofibers.
Phase Transition Behaviors and Nanoscale Film Morphologies of Poly(δ‐valerolactone) Axles Bearing Movable and Fixed Rotaxane Wheels
Authors: Ree Brian J. , Aoki Daisuke , Kim Jehan , Satoh Toshifumi , Takata Toshikazu , Ree Moonhor
Published: September 2019

In this study, poly(δ‐valerolactone) (PVL) axles bearing movable and fixed dibenzo‐24‐crown‐8‐ether wheels (rot‐M and rot‐F) are investigated for the first time in the terms of phase transition and nanoscale film morphology: PVL‐rot‐M and PVL‐rot‐F. Interestingly, the PVL axles reveal a strong tendency to form a horizontal lamellar structure with three different rotational crystal lattice domains in nanoscale films. The morphological structural parameters are discernibly varied by the movable and fixed rotaxane wheels. In particular, the rot‐M wheel tends to be populated in both the interfacial and amorphous layers. The rot‐M wheel is found to significantly influence the phase transition characteristics of the PVL axle because of its movability along the polymer backbone chain. In contrast, the rot‐F wheel tends to be more localized in the interfacial layer rather than in the amorphous layer because of its immovability constrained at the polymer chain end. The rot‐F wheel causes severe thermal instability in the PVL axle, which can be attributed mainly to the presence of its counter anion (PF6−).
Impact of four lncRNA polymorphisms (rs2151280, rs7763881, rs1136410, and rs3787016) on glioma risk and prognosis: A case‐control study
Authors: Deng Yujiao , Zhou Linghui , Li Na , Wang Meng , Yao Li , Dong Shanshan , Zhang Ming , Yang Pengtao , Hao Qian , Wu Ying , Lyu Lijuan , Jin Tianbo , Dai Zhijun , Kang Huafeng
Published: September 2019

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) polymorphisms are reportedly in connection with tumor susceptibility and prognosis. Glioma is one of the most aggressive and common cancers of the central nervous system. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between four lncRNA variants and glioma susceptibility and prognosis in a Chinese Han population. Sequenom Mass‐ARRAY was used to genotype 605 patients with glioma and 1300 cancer‐free individuals. Odds ratios or hazard ratios and related 95% confidence intervals were calculated to estimate the correlations. Logistic and Cox regression models, log‐rank tests, and Kaplan‐Meier curves were used for the statistical analysis. Six inheritance models showed that ANRIL rs2151280 variant genotype (A>G) was related to the susceptibility of glioma, while the other three lncRNAs showed no association. Patients treated with temozolomide or nimustine had better progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) than those treated with platinum. Besides, patients aged older than 40 years showed a poorer OS. The Cox multivariate analysis revealed that the rs1136410 GG genotype (A>G) was beneficial for OS and PFS. The Kaplan‐Meier analyses indicated that rs1136410 A>G and the rs7763881 A>C were associated with longer OS. ANRIL rs2151280 variant genotype might increase susceptibility of glioma. In addition, PARP1 rs1136410 variant genotype could be beneficial for the overall survival of patients with glioma. More research data are needed to further validate our results.
Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) analog phytosphingosine‐1‐phosphate (P1P) improves the in vitro maturation efficiency of porcine oocytes via regulation of oxidative stress and apoptosis
Authors: Park Kyu‐Mi , Wang Jae Woong , Yoo Yeong‐Min , Choi Myeong Jun , Hwang Kyu Chan , Jeung Eui‐Bae , Jeong Yeon Woo , Hwang Woo Suk
Published: September 2019

Phytosphingosine‐1‐phosphate (P1P) is a signaling sphingolipid that regulates various physiological activities. However, little is known about the effect of P1P in the context of reproduction. Thus, we aimed to investigate the influence of P1P on oocyte maturation during porcine in vitro maturation (IVM). Here, we report the expression of S1PR1–3 among P1P receptors (S1PR1–4) in cumulus cells and oocytes. When P1P was administered at concentrations of 10, 50, 100, and 1,000 nM during IVM, the metaphase II rate was significantly increased in the 1,000 nM (1 μM) P1P treatment group. Maturation rate improvement by P1P supplementation was observed only in the presence of epidermal growth factor (EGF). Oocytes under the influence of P1P showed decreased intracellular reactive oxygen species levels but no significant differences in glutathione levels. In our molecular studies, P1P treatment upregulated gene expression involved in cumulus expansion (Has2 and EGF), antioxidant enzymes (SOD3 and Cat), and developmental competence (Oct4) while activating extracellular signal‐regulated kinase1/2 and Akt signaling. P1P treatment also influenced oocyte survival by shifting the ratio of Bcl‐2 to Bax while inactivating JNK signaling. We further demonstrated that oocytes matured with P1P displayed significantly higher developmental competence (cleavage and blastocyst [BL] formation rate) and greater BL quality (total cell number and the ratio of apoptotic cells) when activated via parthenogenetic activation (PA) and in vitro fertilization. Despite the low levels of endogenous P1P found in animals, exogenous P1P influenced animal reproduction, as shown by increased porcine oocyte maturation as well as preimplantation embryo development. This study and its findings are potentially relevant for both human and animal‐assisted reproduction.
Cell‐based maximum entropy approximants for three‐dimensional domains: Application in large strain elastodynamics using the meshless total Lagrangian explicit dynamics method
Authors: Mountris Konstantinos A. , Bourantas George C. , Millán Daniel , Joldes Grand R. , Miller Karol , Pueyo Esther , Wittek Adam
Published: September 2019

We present the cell‐based maximum entropy (CME) approximants in E3 space by constructing the smooth approximation distance function to polyhedral surfaces. CME is a meshfree approximation method combining the properties of the maximum entropy approximants and the compact support of element‐based interpolants. The method is evaluated in problems of large strain elastodynamics for three‐dimensional (3D) continua using the well‐established meshless total Lagrangian explicit dynamics method. The accuracy and efficiency of the method is assessed in several numerical examples in terms of computational time, accuracy in boundary conditions imposition, and strain energy density error. Due to the smoothness of CME basis functions, the numerical stability in explicit time integration is preserved for large time step. The challenging task of essential boundary condition (EBC) imposition in noninterpolating meshless methods (eg, moving least squares) is eliminated in CME due to the weak Kronecker‐delta property. The EBCs are imposed directly, similar to the finite element method. CME is proven a valuable alternative to other meshless and element‐based methods for large‐scale elastodynamics in 3D. A naive implementation of the CME approximants in E3 is available to download at https://www.mountris.org/software/mlab/cme.
Restitution volumes at the end of dialysis sessions: A potential influencing factor on patients' haemoglobin levels?
Authors: Matos Joao Fazendeiro , Peralta Ricardo , Felix Carla , Pinto Bruno , Goncalves Pedro , Carlos Vera , Rodrigues Ricardo , Parisotto Maria Teresa , Carvalho Maria João , Ponce Pedro
Published: September 2019

Aim

To evaluate whether haemoglobin (Hb) levels are influenced by the restitution volume (RestVol) at the end of the dialysis session, independently of erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents (ESA) and iron doses.

Design

Over 12 months, 4,386 haemodialysis patients from 34 centres were enrolled in this observational descriptive study according to the checklist STrengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE).

Method

RestVol, Hb levels, ESA and iron doses of every patient were assessed on a monthly basis. To determine the ideal RestVol, the clinics were classified into three groups according to the restitution volumes at the end of the dialysis sessions.

Results

Mean age was 69 ± 14 years, and 58.9% were men. The evaluation of 665,712 treatments revealed that RestVol of 380 ml seems to be the most efficient, since the clinics in this group managed to reduce ESA consumption with a negligible reduction in Hb levels.