bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postoperative radiation therapy vs observation for pN1 oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Suresh Krish , Cramer John D.
Published: October 2019

Background

American Society of Clinical Oncology guidelines recommend that the decision to give postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) for pN1 oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) without other adverse features be based on the adequacy of the neck dissection (<18 or ≥18 nodes).

Methods

We conducted a cohort study of the National Cancer Database examining how PORT affects survival. We stratified analyses by the adequacy of the neck dissection and lymph node (LN) size.

Results

Our cohort comprised 1909 patients (898 received PORT). PORT conferred a survival benefit in the overall cohort (adjusted hazard ratio 0.82, 95% CI 0.72‐0.94). There was similar benefit in patients receiving inadequate and adequate neck dissections. Patients with >10 mm LN metastasis derived greater benefit compared with patients with smaller metastases.

Conclusions

In pN1 OCSCC without other adverse features, the size of the LN metastases may predict benefit from PORT, whereas the adequacy of the neck dissection may not.
Breast cancer by migrant background in Belgium: Lower risk, but worse survival in women of non‐European origin
Authors: Van Hemelrijck Wanda M.J. , De Schutter Harlinde , de Valk Helga A.G. , Silversmit Geert , Rosskamp Michael , Vandenheede Hadewijch
Published: October 2019

Foreign and native populations differ in terms of breast cancer outcomes. Studies rarely distinguish between premenopausal and postmenopausal breast cancer, although the risk profile is different; nor between migrants of the first and second generation (FG and SG), which is crucial to examine genetic and environmental influences on breast cancer. This research fills these gaps by investigating patterns in breast cancer incidence and survival in different migrant groups by menopausal and migrant generational status, taking various risk factors into account. To this end, individually linked data from the 2001 census, the Belgian Cancer Registry and the Crossroads Bank for Social Security are used. Age‐standardised incidence rates and incidence rate ratios are calculated by migrant background group, stratified according to ages 30–50 (premenopausal) and 50–70 (postmenopausal). Incidence rate ratios are examined with and without taking reproductive factors and socioeconomic position (SEP) into account. Relative survival percentages and relative excess risks of dying among premenopausal and postmenopausal patients are computed with and without controlling for the stage at diagnosis and SEP. Premenopausal breast cancer is further examined by migrant generational status. Breast cancer incidence is lower among non‐European migrants compared to Belgians. Keeping SEP and known risk factors constant reduces much, but not all of the observed discrepancies. A risk convergence between SG migrants and Belgians for the development of premenopausal breast cancer is observed. Premenopausal breast cancer survival is worse among Moroccan patients due to a higher stage at diagnosis. This disadvantage is concentrated in the FG.
Determination of inclusion depth in ex vivo animal tissues using surface enhanced deep Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Mosca Sara , Dey Priyanka , Tabish Tanveer A. , Palombo Francesca , Stone Nicholas , Matousek Pavel
Published: October 2019

This work presents recent developments in spatially offset and transmission Raman spectroscopy for noninvasive detection and depth prediction of a single SERS inclusion located deep inside ex vivo biological tissues. The concept exploits the differential attenuation of Raman bands brought about by their different absorption due to tissue constituents enabling to predict the inclusion depth. Four different calibration models are tested and evaluated to predict the depth of surface enhanced Raman scattering labelled nanoparticles, within an up to 40 mm slab of porcine tissue. An external measurement carried out in transmission mode, with a noninvasively built model on the analysed sample, is shown to be insensitive to variations of the overall thickness of the tissue yielding an average root‐mean‐square error of prediction of 6.7%. The results pave the way for future noninvasive deep Raman spectroscopy in vivo enabling to localise cancer biomarkers for an early diagnosis of multiple diseases.
Directing hMSCs fate through geometrical cues and mimetics peptides
Authors: Padiolleau Laurence , Chanseau Christel , Durrieu Stéphanie , Ayela Cédric , Laroche Gaétan , Durrieu Marie‐Christine
Published: October 2019

The native microenvironment of mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs)—the extracellular matrix (ECM), is a complex and heterogenous environment structured at different scales. The present study aims at mimicking the hierarchical microorganization of proteins or growth factors within the ECM using the photolithography technique. Polyethylene terephthalate substrates were used as a model material to geometrically defined regions of RGD + BMP‐2 or RDG + OGP mimetic peptides. These ECM‐derived ligands are under research for regulation of mesenchymal stem cells osteogenic differentiation in a synergic manner. The hMSCs osteogenic differentiation was significantly affected by the spatial distribution of dually grafted peptides on surfaces, and hMSCs cells reacted differently according to the shape and size of peptide micropatterns. Our study demonstrates the presence of a strong interplay between peptide geometric cues and stem cell differentiation toward the osteoblastic lineage. These tethered surfaces provide valuable tools to investigate stem cell fate mechanisms regulated by multiple ECM cues, thereby contributing to the design of new biomaterials and improving hMSCs differentiation cues.
RASSF1 promotes cardiomyocyte apoptosis after acute myocardial infarction and is regulated by miR‐125b
Authors: Xiaochuan Bai , Qianfeng Jiang , Min Xu , Xiao Liang
Published: October 2019

Cardiomyocyte apoptosis is a common pathological injury in association with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In the current study, the relationship between Ras‐association domain family 1 (RASSF1) and cardiomyocyte apoptosis was investigated. RASSF1 was significantly over expressed in infarcted myocardial tissues as well as in cardiomyocytes induced by hypoxia. Inhibition of RASSF1 expression alleviated cardiomyocytes apoptosis induced by hypoxia in vitro and reduced cardiomyocytes apoptosis after AMI in vivo. RASSF1 expression was directly modulated by miR‐125b, which was further confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. The current study verified that the miR‐125b/RASSF1 axis was involved in cardiomyocytes apoptosis. To sum up, these results suggest that RASSF1 downregulation alleviated infarction‐induced cardiomyocytes apoptosis and was regulated by miR‐125b.
The posttranslational modification of HDAC4 in cell biology: Mechanisms and potential targets
Authors: Hou Fei , Wei Wei , Qin Xiao , Liang Jing , Han Sha , Han Aizhong , Kong Qingsheng
Published: October 2019

Histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) is a member of the HDACs family, its expression is closely related to the cell development. The cell is an independent living entity that undergoes proliferation, differentiation, senescence, apoptosis, and pathology, and each process has a strict and complex regulatory system. With deepening of its research, the expression of HDAC4 is critical in the life process. This review focuses on the posttranslational modification of HDAC4 in cell biology, providing an important target for future disease treatment.
SNP rs710886 A>G in long noncoding RNA PCAT1 is associated with the risk of endometriosis by modulating expression of multiple stemness‐related genes via microRNA‐145 signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Liming , Xing Qi , Feng Tongfu , He Ming , Yu Weixu , Chen Hui
Published: October 2019

MiR‐145 has been shown to suppress cell invasiveness and proliferation in endometriosis, whereas prostate cancer‐associated transcript 1 (PCAT1) was reported to act as a sponge of miR‐145 with one single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), rs710886, located in the chromosomal segment of PCAT1. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the association between rs710886 SNP and the risk of endometriosis, as well as the effect of this SNP on the activation of the signaling pathway downstream of PCAT1. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to observe the expression of miR‐145 in transfected cells, while Matrigel invasion chamber assays and MTT assay were conducted to examine the invasiveness/proliferation among different cell groups. Moreover, bioinformatics tools, luciferase assays, real‐time PCR, and Western blot analysis were used to measure the expression of these target genes in the presence of miR‐145. Finally, a statistical analysis was conducted to compare the genotypes of rs710886 SNP between fertile healthy women and infertile women with endometriosis. PCAT1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) evidently increased the expression of miR‐145 but reduced the invasiveness/proliferation of cells. P‐PCAT1 exhibited an opposite effect as that of PCAT1 siRNA, indicating PCAT1 could promote the proliferation and invasiveness of endometriosis stem cells via inhibiting the expression of miR‐145. Meanwhile, FASCIN1, SOX2, MSI2, SERPINE1, and JAM‐A were identified as target genes of miR‐145 via computational analysis and luciferase assays. Finally, a significant genetic effect was observed in both the dominant (AG+GG vs AA) and recessive models (GG vs AG+AA), indicating the presence of an association between the genotype of SNP rs710886 and the risk of endometriosis. SNP rs710886 A>G could lower the expression of PCAT1, thus leading to the overexpression of miR‐145. Highly expressed miR‐145 would inhibit the invasiveness and proliferation of endometriosis stem cells via targeting specific genes, thus decreasing the risk of endometriosis.
Leisure behavior and sense of coherence in the context of depression
Authors: Nagata Shinichi , McCormick Bryan , Piatt Jennifer
Published: October 2019

Aims

Improved sense of coherence (SOC) can protect health among individuals with depression. Literature suggests that leisure behavior can improve SOC, yet empirical studies are lacking. The current study aimed to examine whether leisure behavior was associated with SOC and depression.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey method was used with a sample of community‐living adults (62% female, age 18–75 years) with a self‐reported current or historical diagnosis of depression recruited from four different depression‐related populations.

Results

The results of structural equation modeling found that leisure behavior predicted greater SOC as well as lower depressive symptoms. Greater SOC was associated with lower perceived stress and lower depressive symptoms. The total effect size, including both direct and indirect association between leisure behavior and depressive symptoms was 0.452.

Conclusion

The findings suggested the potential benefits of leisure behavior on SOC and depressive symptoms.
Gestational diabetes mellitus affects odontoblastic differentiation of dental papilla cells via Toll‐like receptor 4 signaling in offspring
Authors: Lyu Yun , Jia Sixun , Wang Shikang , Wang Tao , Tian Weidong , Chen Guoqing
Published: October 2019

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is an important factor involved in the pathogenesis of organ development in the offspring. Here, we analyzed the effects of GDM on odontoblastic differentiation of dental papilla cells (DPCs) and dentin formation in offspring and investigated their underlying mechanisms. A GDM rat model was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin and offspring were collected. The results showed that GDM significantly affected odontoblast differentiation and dentin formation in offspring tooth. GDM activated the toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐ĸB) signaling pathway and inhibited SMAD1/5/9 signaling to modulate the odontoblastic differentiation of DPCs in offspring. Inhibition of TLR4 signaling by treated with TAK‐242 significantly reverses the suppression of odonto‐differentiation of DPCs in diabetic offspring. Taken together, these data indicate GDM activated the offspring DPCs TLR4/NF‐ĸB signaling, which suppressed the SMAD1/5/9 phosphorylation and then inhibited odontoblasts differentiation and dentin formation.
Cellular reprogramming by single‐cell fusion with mouse embryonic stem cells in pig
Authors: Fang Yuan , Guo Jia , Wu Shuang , Li Xuechun , Zhao Jianchao , Li Yan , Guo Shimeng , Mu Yanshuang , Kong Qingran , Liu Zhonghua
Published: October 2019

Fusion of differentiated somatic cells with pluripotent stem cells can be used for cellular reprogramming, but the efficiency to obtain hybrid cells is extremely low. Here, we explored a novel cell fusion system, termed single‐cell fusion, the efficiency was significantly improved verified by fusion of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs), comparing to traditional polyethylene glycol fusion. Then, we employed the optimized system to perform cell fusion of porcine embryonic fibroblasts (PEFs) and porcine pluripotent stem cells (pPSCs) with mESCs. The hybrid cells showed both red and green fluorescence and expressed species‐specific genes of mouse and pig to evidence that the fusion was successful. The hybrid cells displayed characteristics similar with mESCs, including colony morphology, alkaline phosphatase positive and formation of embryoid body, and the expressions of core pluripotent factors OCT4, NANOG, and SOX2 of the pig were induced in the mESC/PEF hybrid cells. The results indicate PEFs and pPSCs could be reprogrammed by mESCs via the single‐cell fusion. Taking advantage of the hybrid cells to investigate the signaling pathways depended on the pluripotency of pig, we suggest the transforming growth factor‐β signaling pathways may play important roles. In summary, the single‐cell fusion is highly efficient, and we believe in the future it will be widely used in the application and fundamental research.
Gastrointestinal ultrasound in inflammatory bowel disease care: Patient perceptions and impact on disease‐related knowledge
Authors: Rajagopalan Arvind , Sathananthan Dharshan , An Yoon‐Kyo , Van De Ven Lucinda , Martin Serena , Fon James , Costello Samuel P , Begun Jakob , Bryant Robert V
Published: October 2019

Background and Aim

Objective monitoring of disease activity is integral to therapeutic decision‐making in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Data are sparse on patients' perspectives of tools used to monitor disease activity in IBD. To evaluate patients' perspectives of gastrointestinal ultrasound (GIUS) performed during routine IBD clinical care, along with its impact on IBD‐specific knowledge.

Methods

Patients with a formal diagnosis of IBD who underwent GIUS at two tertiary IBD services between March 2017 and January 2019 participated in this prospective study. Participants completed a questionnaire measuring the acceptability, tolerability, and usefulness of GIUS using a visual analogue scale (VAS) from 0 (disagree) to 10 (strongly agree). Comparative acceptability of IBD monitoring tools and the impact of GIUS on IBD‐specific knowledge was measured.

Results

A total of 121 participants completed the questionnaire, with a mean age of 42 years (range 17–78), 54 (45%) males, and 79 (65%) Crohn's disease patients. In the overall population, GIUS was scored as highly acceptable for monitoring IBD (mean 9.20 ± 1.37) compared to colonoscopy (7.94 ± 2.30), stool sampling (8.17 ± 1.96), blood sampling (8.87 ± 1.62), and imaging (8.67 ± 1.60); P < 0.01 for each comparison. GIUS caused little patient discomfort (1.88 ± 1.83), and 98 (81%) participants ranked GIUS as their preferred IBD monitoring tool. GIUS also improved patients' overall IBD‐specific knowledge (VAS IBD‐specific knowledge 7.96 ± 1.92), including their understanding of the need for medical therapy and disease extent.

Conclusion

GIUS is a highly acceptable and well‐tolerated tool for monitoring disease activity in IBD patients. GIUS is preferred by patients and enhances IBD‐specific knowledge.
The role of Lys2–Cl−–Lys2 salt linkages in oligomeric intermediates of RbsD protein in Escherichia coli
Authors: Zheng Jing , Zheng Jie , Ma Yuanwu , Zuo Guocai , Feng Yongjun
Published: October 2019

As a homo‐oligomeric protein, the disassembly of Escherichia coli RbsD decamer produces a urea‐unfolded oligomeric intermediate structure, as the dissociation speed of the protein is lower than that of the unfolding process. There are five Lys2–Cl−–Lys2 salt linkages to connect these subunits. To explore the role of the salt linkages in these oligomeric intermediates, the Lys2Ala mutated in the N‐terminal of E. coli RbsD protein subunit was designed. It was found that the RbsD mutation protein (RbsD:K2A) loses its minor larger oligomers, which exist in RbsD, and displays other several oligomeric states (less than decamers), meanwhile the state of the oligomers depends on the protein concentration. It was also found that compared with RbsD, the crosslinking capability of the subunits of RbsD:K2A is weaker, while the crosslinking rate of dimers is higher, RbsD:K2A needs to substantially adjust its conformation to meet the space requirements when combined with d‐ribose. On the basis of these results, we suggest that Lys2–Cl−–Lys2 salt linkages in E. coli RbsD protein play an important role in stabilizing the intermediate products of oligomers and maintaining interaction between the intermediate products of oligomers, which may shed light on the study of these oligomeric proteins.
Interactions of tea polyphenols with intestinal microbiota and their implication for anti‐obesity
Authors: Zhao Yuan , Zhang Xin
Published: October 2019

Tea polyphenols (TP) are the main components in tea. Studies in vitro have shown they have significant biological activity; however, the results are inconsistent with experiments in vivo. For the low bioavailability, most TP are thought to remain in the gut and metabolized by intestinal bacteria. In the gut, the unabsorbed TP are metabolized to a variety of derivative products by intestinal flora, which may accumulate to exert beneficial effects. Numerous studies have shown that TP can inhibit obesity and its related metabolism disorders effectively. Meanwhile, it has demonstrated that TP and their derivatives may modulate intestinal micro‐ecology. The understanding of the interaction between TP and intestinal microbiota will allow us to better evaluate the contribution of microbial metabolites of TP to anti‐obesity activity. This review showed implications for the use of TP as functional food with potential therapeutic utility against obesity by modulating intestinal microbiota, contributing to the improvement of human health. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Valorization of snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio) cooking effluents for food applications
Authors: Tremblay Ariane , Corcuff Ronan , Goulet Charles , Godefroy Samuel B , Doyen Alain , Beaulieu Lucie
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Seafood processing generates significant amounts of solid and liquid waste in the environment. Such waste represents a potential source of high‐value biomolecules for food, pharmaceutic and cosmetic applications. There are very few studies on the valorization of wastewaters compared to solid by‐products. However, cooking waters are characterized by a high organic polluting load, which could contain valuable molecules such as proteins, pigments and flavor compounds. Snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio) processing is included among the most important processes in Canadian fisheries, although its cooking effluent composition is not well characterized.

RESULTS

The present study concentrated and valorized the biomass in snow crab cooking wastewaters for the development of products for food applications. A membrane process was designed and optimized to concentrate the effluents. The chemical composition of the concentrates was analyzed, including characterizing the flavor profile compounds. The extracts were mainly composed of proteins (592 g kg−1) and minerals (386 g kg−1) and contained desirable flavor compounds. Their functional properties (solubility, water‐holding capacity, oil‐holding capacity) and antioxidant activities were also assessed, and their safety was verified.

CONCLUSION

The cooking effluents generated by snow crab processing facilities, usually considered as waste, can be concentrated and turned into a natural aroma for the food industry. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Porogens and porogen selection in the preparation of porous polymer monoliths
Authors: Mansour Fotouh R. , Waheed Sidra , Paull Brett , Maya Fernando
Published: October 2019

Porogens are key components required for the preparation of porous polymer monoliths for application in separation science. Porogens determine the stability, selectivity, and permeability of polymer monoliths. This review summarizes the role of porogens in the preparation of porous polymer monoliths with a focus on clear understanding of effect of porogens on morphological properties, porosity, surface area, mechanical stability, and permeability of monoliths, particularly targeting the field of separation science. This review also includes the use of different types of porogens with the focus on various approaches used to set criteria for their systematic selection, including porogen‐free techniques recently used for synthesis of porous monoliths. It discusses the current state‐of‐the‐art applications of porogens in column preparation as well as where the future developments in this field may be directed.
Valley Kink States and Topological Channel Intersections in Substrate‐Integrated Photonic Circuitry
Authors: Zhang Li , Yang Yihao , He Mengjia , Wang Hai‐Xiao , Yang Zhaoju , Li Erping , Gao Fei , Zhang Baile , Singh Ranjan , Jiang Jian‐Hua , Chen Hongsheng
Published: October 2019

Valley degrees of freedom, providing a novel way to increase capacity and efficiency of information processing, have become an important instrument for photonics. Experimental studies on photonic topological valley kink states at interfaces between regions with opposite valley‐Chern numbers have attracted much attention; however, they are restricted to zigzag‐type interfaces, largely limiting their applications such as geometry‐dependent topological channel intersections. Here, valley kink states at generic interfaces in subwavelength substrate‐integrated photonic circuitry are experimentally demonstrated and manipulated. The robustness of the kink states is verified by measuring transmissions of the kink states through twisted interfaces and interfaces with disorders. Based on the valley kink states at generic interfaces, several topological channel intersections where photonic transport paths are related to geometries of the intersections are realized. In comparison to those in previous work, these valley photonic crystals have subwavelength thicknesses and excellent self‐consistent electrical shielding, which are perfectly compatible with conventional substrate‐integrated photonic circuitry. This work opens a door to manipulate photonic valley pseudo‐spins in lightweight substrate‐integrated circuitry with robustness and easy access.
Arterial Blood Pressure at Liver Transplant Evaluation Predicts Renal Histology in Candidates With Renal Dysfunction
Authors: Wadei Hani M. , Abader Peter , Alsaad Ali A. , Croome Kristopher , Cortese Cherise , Geiger Xochiquetzal J. , Khouzam Samir , Mai Martin L. , Taner C. Burcin , Keaveny Andrew P.
Published: October 2019

Renal dysfunction is common in liver transplantation (LT) candidates, but differentiating between reversible and irreversible renal injury can be difficult. Kidney biopsy might be helpful in differentiating reversible from irreversible renal injury, but it is associated with significant complications. We aimed to identify pre‐LT predictors of potentially reversible renal injury using histological information obtained on pre‐LT renal biopsy. Data on 128 LT candidates who underwent pre‐LT kidney biopsy were retrospectively collected and correlated with renal histological findings. Indications for kidney biopsy were iothalamate glomerular filtration rate (iGFR) ≤40 mL/minute, proteinuria >500 mg/day, and/or hematuria. According to the biopsy diagnosis, patients were grouped into the following categories: normal (n = 13); acute tubular necrosis (ATN; n = 25); membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (n = 19); minimal histological changes (n = 24); and advanced interstitial fibrosis (IF) and glomerulosclerosis (GS) (n = 47). Compared with patients having advanced IF/GS, patients with normal biopsies and those with ATN had lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and higher international normalized ratio and total bilirubin levels (<0.05 for all). Both SBP and DBP directly correlated with the degree of IF and GS (R = 0.3, P ≤ 0.02 for all). SBP ≤90 mm Hg was 100% sensitive and 98% specific in correlating with normal biopsies or ATN, whereas SBP ≥140 mm Hg was 22% sensitive and 90% specific in correlating with advanced IF/GS. Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score, serum creatinine, iGFR, urinary sodium excretion, and renal size did not correlate with biopsy diagnosis or degree of IF or GS. In conclusion, SBP at the time of LT evaluation correlates with renal histology, and it should be included along with other clinical and laboratory markers in the decision‐making process to list patients with renal dysfunction for LT alone versus simultaneous liver‐kidney transplantation.
Increased Frequency of Heterozygous Alpha‐1‐Antitrypsin Deficiency in Liver Explants From Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Patients
Authors: Cheeney Gregory , Pac Lincoln J. , Gopal Purva , Landis Charles S. , Konnick Eric Q. , Swanson Paul E. , Greene Dina N. , Lockwood Christina M. , Westerhoff Maria
Published: October 2019

Cirrhotic explanted livers occasionally have unexpected periodic acid–Schiff‐diastase (PASD)–positive globules within the hepatocyte cytoplasm. It is often unclear whether this finding is a nonspecific consequence of cirrhosis or is indicative of an underlying alpha‐1‐antitrypsin deficiency (A1ATD) contributing to the cirrhosis. In this study, explanted livers were retrospectively evaluated for histopathology (including PASD status with confirmatory alpha‐1‐antitrypsin [A1AT] immunohistochemistry [IHC]), and chart review provided etiology of liver failure and general clinical parameters. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to detect A1AT genotype (SERPINA1 S and Z alleles) by melting curve analysis on liver explant tissue from selected cases. Of 196 explanted livers, 21 (11%) had PASD+ globules, which were significantly enriched in patients with a clinical diagnosis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH; 47%) compared with other causes (P < 0.001). IHC confirmed all PASD+ globules were A1AT+, with 20 of 21 cases demonstrating diffuse A1AT staining. In an expanded NASH cohort, 42% (14/33) of explants had PASD+ globules, 92% of which were homozygous (n = 1) or heterozygous (n = 11) for the SERPINA1 Z allele, corresponding to nearly 40% of all NASH patients. Overall, the Z allele was present in 10% of all tested liver explants, with 85% of PASD+ cases genotyping homozygous (n = 2) or heterozygous (n = 20), which is far in excess of the estimated 2% in the general population. These results indicate PASD+ A1AT globules (with confirmatory genotyping showing at least 1 Z allele) are commonly observed in NASH, suggesting a synergistic relationship toward liver fibrosis. In addition, the high frequency of SERPINA1 Z alleles in liver transplantation patients supports the utility of pretransplant genotyping.
CuxS/PAN 3D Nanofiber Mats as Ultra‐Lightweight and Flexible Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Materials
Authors: Li Heng , Jensen Martin , Wang Ning , Chen Yang , Gao Yaxue , Chen Xueyan , Li Xianfeng
Published: October 2019

Shielding materials are becoming increasingly important, but present materials suffer from either insufficient mechanical stability or limited shielding properties. In this study, 3D flexible copper sulfide (CuxS)/polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofiber mats are developed via air spinning followed by chemical reaction with copper salt. The CuxS/PAN nanofiber mats exhibit an ultra‐lightweight density of 0.044 g cm−3 and a thickness of 0.423 mm. Stable electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness (SE) (29–31 dB) of the CuxS/PAN composite is achieved in the frequency range of 500–3000 MHz. EMI SE per unit surface density of 16 655.92 dB cm2 g−1 is several orders of magnitude higher than most copper sulfide containing EMI shielding materials reported in literature. In addition, the introduction of the CuxS improves the thermal stability and launderability of the PAN mats giving the mats thermal, mechanical, and aqueous stability. Finally, the shielding mechanism of the CuxS/PAN nanofiber mats for electromagnetic waves is proposed
Alternating Sequence Control for Poly(ester amide)s by Organocatalyzed Ring‐Opening Polymerization
Authors: Liang Yang , Pan Jun‐Lin , Sun Lin‐Hao , Ma Ji‐Mei , Jiang Hong , Li Zi‐Long
Published: October 2019

Sequence‐controlled polymerization is the forefront of polymer chemistry. Herein, the feasibility of sequence regulation by using organocatalyzed ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) is demonstrated. In particular, ring expansion strategy is employed to synthesize pre‐organized monomers 1 and 2. ROP is conducted by using 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene and benzyl alcohol as the catalyst and initiator, respectively. Poly(ester amide)s (PEAs) P1–P3 comprising glycolic acid, lactic acid, and 7‐aminoheptanoic acid units are obtained in high molecular weights and good yields. NMR and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry results verify the microstructural integrity of P1 and P2. Differential scanning calorimetry results show that PEA without methyl branches is crystalline. Moreover, thermal stability, surface wettability, and degradation profiles of P1–P3 are also investigated.
Phases analysis and impact of phases on fracture mechanism of AZ61‐SiC composite
Authors: Besterci M. , Sulleiova K. , Ballokova B. , Nagy S. , Velgosova O. , Huang S.J.
Published: October 2019

Phase composition of AZ61‐SiC composite with 5 wt.% of nanosized silicon carbide reinforcement was analysed and failure mechanism by in situ tensile test in scanning electron microscope was observed. Microstructure of the experimental materials was heterogeneous with grain size of 15 μm. Based on the quantitative analysis of composite, besides, silicon carbide strengthened particles added externally into the matrix magnesium silicide, magnesium oxide, and aluminium/manganese particles formed in situ were found in the matrix. In situ tensile test in scanning electron microscope has shown that reinforcing particles substantially influenced failure mechanism. Large, brittle magnesium silicide particles (size of 40 μm–50 μm) cracked during tensile deformation and at the same time, as a result of different physical properties, decohesion of the matrix and smaller aluminium/manganese, silicon carbide and magnesium oxide particles (size of 5 μm–10 μm, 10 μm and 50 nm respectively) occurred. Reinforcing particles and brittle secondary phases driven micro voids and their coalescence was found as a major cause of large cracks formation. Subsequently the increase of stress caused the cracks propagation by the coalescence of fractured particles and decohesively release smaller dispersed particles. The fracture propagated at approximately 90° angle to the direction of the tensile load direction. Fracture surface had feature of transcrystalline and intercrystalline failure.
Study: Antidepressants during pregnancy tied to diabetes risk
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2019

A new study has found a link between the use of antidepressants and a higher risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) or pregnancy‐associated diabetes mellitus. The new research is published in the October online issue of BMJ Open.
Ultrawideband microstrip patch antenna with quadruple band notch characteristic using negative permittivity unit cells
Authors: Jeong Min Joo , Hussain Niamat , Bong Han‐Ul , Park Ji Woong , Shin Kook Sun , Lee Seung Woo , Rhee Seung Yeop , Kim Nam
Published: October 2019

This article presents the design of an ultrawideband antenna with quadruple band notch characteristic using negative permittivity unit cells. Quad notched band characteristics are achieved at desired frequency bands by etching four complementary split ring resonators on the modified rectangular patch, which is then validated by experimental results. The antenna has impedance bandwidth for voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) <2 from 2.85 to 11.52 GHz, with a notched band characteristic in the sub‐6 GHz 5G (3.39‐3.82 GHz), IEEE 802.11a WLAN at 5.2 GHz (5.13‐5.40 GHz), IEEE 802.11a WLAN at 5.8 GHz (5.71‐5.91 GHz), and ITU 8 GHz (7.5‐8.61 GHz) signal bands. Furthermore, the antenna has a compact overall size of 40 × 30 × 0.81 mm3 with a stable radiation patterns.
Validation of the Turkish version of the eight‐item actionable bladder symptom screening tool in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Polat Dunya Cansu , Tulek Zeliha , Vızvız Gizem Yagmur , Gündüz Tuncay , Panicker Jalesh N , Kürtüncü Murat , Eraksoy Mefkure
Published: October 2019

Aims

This study aimed to translate the eight‐item Actionable Bladder Symptom Screening Tool (ABSST) and determine its psychometric properties in Turkish speaking subjects.

Methods

The study was conducted at the multiple sclerosis (MS) outpatient clinic of the Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University. First, the ABSST was translated into Turkish by an expert panel. We employed the back translation method for linguistic validation. Cronbach's α and test‐retest analysis were performed for reliability analysis. The overactive bladder‐v8 (OAB‐v8) questionnaire was also administered for concurrent validation, and expanded disability status scale (EDSS) and multiple sclerosis quality of life scale‐54 (MSQL‐54) were used to evaluate construct validity.

Results

One hundred and five patients (84 females; mean age, 39.5 ± 11.6 years; mean EDSS score, 3.2 ± 1.8) participated in the study. Mean duration of MS was 9.7 ± 8.3 years, and most (n = 96; 91.5%) had relapsing‐remitting MS. The mean ABSST score was 9.7 ± 5.8 (range, 0‐21). Highest scores were obtained from urgency and frequency, and the lowest from psychosocial effects of lower urinary tract (LUT) symptoms. The Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.856, and item‐total score correlations ranged between 0.485 and 0.845. Correlations of ABSST scores with OAB‐v8, EDSS, and MSQL‐54 scales were significant (P < .001). According to the questionnaire, 38.1% (n = 40) of the patients needed a referral to a urologist or gynecologist for their LUT symptoms.

Conclusions

The Turkish version of the ABSST is a valid and reliable screening tool that can be used to identify LUT symptoms in an MS clinic.
Reliability and validity of intravaginal pressure measurements with a new intravaginal pressure device: The FemFit®
Authors: Cacciari Licia P. , Kruger Jennifer , Goodman Jonathan , Budgett David , Dumoulin Chantal
Published: October 2019

Aims

To test the reliability and validity of intravaginal pressure measurements acquired during pelvic floor muscle (PFM) tasks in different body positions using the FemFit®, a new intravaginal pressure device.

Methods

Twenty healthy adult women participated in this study. Two assessment sessions were conducted. Intravaginal pressure measurements using the FemFit® were repeated during PFM contraction and straining maneuvers while lying and standing. Maximal intravaginal pressures were collated and compared within and between sessions. They were also correlated to maximal force measurements obtained by dynamometry and vaginal digital palpation. Test‐retest reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficient, standard error of measurement and Bland‐Altman plots. The validity of the pressure measurements was assessed using Pearson's correlation (dynamometry) and Spearman's rho (palpation).

Results

This test‐retest study indicate excellent reliability for PFM contraction and straining maneuver both in lying and standing, within and between sessions. For the straining maneuver while standing, increased variability was suggested by a wider limit of agreement on Bland‐Altman plots (spanning 31.3 to 43.3mm Hg). A significant moderate to strong correlation was found when comparing measurements of PFM contraction using the FemFit® and the dynamometer or the palpation (Pearson's coefficient = 0.72, P = .006; Spearman's rho = 0.68, P = .005, respectively).

Conclusion

Our research findings suggest that intravaginal pressures can be reliably measured during PFM contraction and straining manoeuver while lying and standing, using the FemFit® device, both within and between sessions. A moderate to strong correlation between the FemFit® pressure and the force measurements obtained by dynamometry or palpation reinforce the validity of measurements.
An explorative study of workplace violence against nurses who care for older people
Authors: El‐Hneiti Mamdouh , Shaheen Abeer M. , Bani Salameh Ayman , Al-dweeri Rami Mohammad , Al‐Hussami Mahmoud , Alfaouri Fathi Tawfiq , Ahmad Muayyad
Published: October 2019

Aim

To explore the prevalence of workplace violence among nurses who care for older people and its association with working stress, job satisfaction and quality of care in Jordan.

Design

A cross‐sectional design was used.

Methods

A cluster random sampling was used to select three public hospitals, three private hospitals and 17 healthcare centres in Amman, Jordan. The researcher used a convenience sampling method to select 485 nurses. Data were collected between 2015–2016.

Results

Almost 60% of the participants have been victims of violence at the workplace during the past year. Nurses who consider violence a problem at work have high levels of working stress (p < .01) as well as lower levels of quality of care (p < .01) and job satisfaction (p < .001).
Stability and Ignition of a Siloxane‐Coated Magnesium Powder
Authors: Hastings D. L. , Schoenitz M. , Ryan Kaleigh M. , Dreizin Edward L. , Krumpfer Joseph W.
Published: October 2019

Magnesium powders are used widely in reactive and energetic composite materials, such as pyrotechnic formulations, solid fuels and explosives, as a vital ignition source. However, magnesium powders are highly reactive with atmospheric oxygen and moisture, forming the inert magnesium oxide and hydroxide. These reactions limit their shelf life, decrease their potency and affects the overall stability of these materials. In order to increase their long‐term stability, protective magnesium coatings are desired. In this work, a method for coating magnesium powders using tetramethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4H) through a vapor‐solid interface reaction is described. This reaction requires no solvents, little material, and does not produce any corrosive byproducts. Coated powders demonstrate increased stability when exposed to elevated temperatures and high humidity conditions, with no oxidation of the magnesium observable. Despite improved stability, the coatings do not negatively impact ignition temperature and dynamics for magnesium powders.
Geometrical characterization of T cell receptor binding modes reveals class‐specific binding to maximize access to antigen
Authors: Singh Nishant K. , Abualrous Esam T. , Ayres Cory M. , Noé Frank , Gowthaman Ragul , Pierce Brian G. , Baker Brian M.
Published: October 2019

Recognition of antigenic peptides bound to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins by αβ T cell receptors (TCRs) is a hallmark of T cell mediated immunity. Recent data suggest that variations in TCR binding geometry may influence T cell signaling, which could help explain outliers in relationships between physical parameters such as TCR‐pMHC binding affinity and T cell function. Traditionally, TCR binding geometry has been described with simple descriptors such as the crossing angle, which quantifies what has become known as the TCR's diagonal binding mode. However, these descriptors often fail to reveal distinctions in binding geometry that are apparent through visual inspection. To provide a better framework for relating TCR structure to T cell function, we developed a comprehensive system for quantifying the geometries of how TCRs bind peptide/MHC complexes. We show that our system can discern differences not clearly revealed by more common methods. As an example of its potential to impact biology, we used it to reveal differences in how TCRs bind class I and class II peptide/MHC complexes, which we show allow the TCR to maximize access to and “read out” the peptide antigen. We anticipate our system will be of use in not only exploring these and other details of TCR‐peptide/MHC binding interactions, but also addressing questions about how TCR binding geometry relates to T cell function, as well as modeling structural properties of class I and class II TCR‐peptide/MHC complexes from sequence information. The system is available at https://tcr3d.ibbr.umd.edu/tcr_com or for download as a script.
Proton relay network in P450cam formed upon docking of putidaredoxin
Authors: Ugur Ilke , Chandrasekhar Prasanna
Published: October 2019

Cytochromes P450 are versatile heme‐based enzymes responsible for vital life processes. Of these, P450cam (substrate camphor) has been most studied. Despite this, precise mechanisms of the key O─O cleavage step remain partly elusive to date; effects observed in various enzyme mutants remain partly unexplained. We have carried out extended (to 1000 ns) MM‐MD and follow‐on quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics computations, both on the well‐studied FeOO state and on Cpd(0) (compound 0). Our simulations include (all camphor‐bound): (a) WT (wild type), FeOO state. (b) WT, Cpd(0). (c) Pdx (Putidaredoxin, redox partner of P450)‐docked‐WT, FeOO state. (d) Pdx‐docked WT, Cpd(0). (e) Pdx‐docked T252A mutant, Cpd(0). Among our key findings: (a) Effect of Pdx docking appears to go far beyond that indicated in prior studies: it leads to specific alterations in secondary structure that create the crucial proton relay network. (b) Specific proton relay networks we identify are: FeOO(H)⋯T252⋯nH
2O⋯D251 in WT; FeOO(H)⋯nH
2O⋯D251 in T252A mutant; both occur with Pdx docking. (c) Direct interaction of D251 with –FeOOH is, respectively, rare/frequent in WT/T252A mutant. (d) In WT, T252 is in the proton relay network. (e) Positioning of camphor appears significant: when camphor is part of H‐bonding network, second protonation appears to be facilitated.
GSTZ1 genotypes correlate with dichloroacetate pharmacokinetics and chronic side effects in multiple myeloma patients in a pilot phase 2 clinical trial
Authors: Tian Dan Dan , Bennett Samuel K. , Coupland Lucy A. , Forwood Kathryn , Lwin Yadanar , Pooryousef Niloofar , Tea Illa , Truong Thy T. , Neeman Teresa , Crispin Philip , D’Rozario James , Blackburn Anneke C.
Published: October 2019

Dichloroacetate (DCA) is an investigational drug targeting the glycolytic hallmark of cancer by inhibiting pyruvate dehydrogenase kinases (PDK). It is metabolized by GSTZ1, which has common polymorphisms altering enzyme or promoter activity. GSTZ1 is also irreversibly inactivated by DCA. In the first clinical trial of DCA in a hematological malignancy, DiCAM (DiChloroAcetate in Myeloma), we have examined the relationship between DCA concentrations, GSTZ1 genotype, side effects, and patient response. DiCAM recruited seven myeloma patients in partial remission. DCA was administered orally for 3 months with a loading dose. Pharmacokinetics were performed on day 1 and 8. Trough and peak concentrations of DCA were measured monthly. GSTZ1 genotypes were correlated with drug concentrations, tolerability, and disease outcomes. One patient responded and two patients showed a partial response after one month of DCA treatment, which included the loading dose. The initial half‐life of DCA was shorter in two patients, correlating with heterozygosity for GSTZ1*A genotype, a high enzyme activity variant. Over 3 months, one patient maintained DCA trough concentrations approximately threefold higher than other patients, which correlated with a low activity promoter genotype (−1002A, rs7160195) for GSTZ1. This patient displayed the strongest response, but also the strongest neuropathy. Overall, serum concentrations of DCA were sufficient to inhibit the constitutive target PDK2, but unlikely to inhibit targets induced in cancer. Promoter GSTZ1 polymorphisms may be important determinants of DCA concentrations and neuropathy during chronic treatment. Novel dosing regimens may be necessary to achieve effective DCA concentrations in most cancer patients while avoiding neuropathy.
Application method affects pesticide efficiency and effectiveness in wheat fields
Authors: Xiao Jinjing , Chen Li , Pan Fan , Deng Yajing , Ding Chenchun , Liao Min , Su Xianyan , Cao Haiqun
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

There is an urgent need to enhance pesticide effectiveness while reducing adverse environmental impacts, based on the pesticide reduction program that requires net zero growth in chemical pesticide applications by 2020. Agricultural production can benefit from appropriate pesticide application using the optimal method. In this study, the effects of different application methods on the effectiveness, spray deposition, and residue behaviour of 48% phenamacril · tebuconazole suspension concentrate (SC) in wheat production were compared to determine the most efficient and effective method.

RESULTS

48% phenamacril · tebuconazole SC was most effective in controllingFusariumhead blight (FHB) and mycotoxin contamination. Statistically significant differences in the control effect, spray deposition, initial residues, and half‐life (t1/2) were subsequently observed with different application methods, suggesting that the application method plays a key role in pesticide availability and control efficiency. The differences in control efficiency and pesticide residues between application methods were thought to be related to droplet size, droplet distribution, and penetrability. Unmanned aerial vehicle and mister sprayers were found to effectively increase the control efficacy of 48% phenamacril · tebuconazole SC in terms of FHB control and mycotoxin concentrations, as well as enhancing pesticide availability.

CONCLUSION

These findings are of theoretical and practical value for the scientific application of pesticides in wheat, helping to enhance pesticide utilization while reducing harmful residues. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Analysis of mutations in West Australian populations of Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei CYP51 conferring resistance to DMI fungicides
Authors: Tucker Madeline A , Lopez‐Ruiz Francisco , Cools Hans J , Mullins Jonathon GL , Jayasena Kithsiri , Oliver Richard P
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Powdery mildew caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei (Bgh) is a constant threat to barley production but is generally well controlled through combinations of host genetics and fungicides. An epidemic of barley powdery mildew was observed from 2007 to 2013 in the West Australian grain belt.

RESULTS

We collected isolates across Australia, examined their sensitivity to demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicides and sequenced the Cyp51B target gene. Five amino acid substitutions were found, of which four were novel. The most resistant haplotypes increased in prevalence from 0% in 2009 to 16% in 2010 and 90% in 2011. Yeast strains expressing the Bgh Cyp51 haplotypes replicated the altered sensitivity to various DMIs and these results were complemented by in silico protein docking studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The planting of very susceptible cultivars and the use of a single fungicide mode of action was followed by the emergence of a major epidemic of barley powdery mildew. Widespread use of DMI fungicides led to the selection of Bgh isolates carrying both the Y137F and S524T mutations, which, as in Zymoseptoria tritici, account for resistance factors varying from 3.4 for propiconazole to 18 for tebuconazole, the major azoles used at that time in WA. © 2019 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.