bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of the AS04‐adjuvanted HPV‐16/18 vaccine in reducing oropharyngeal HPV infections in young females—Results from a community‐randomized trial
Authors: Lehtinen Matti , Apter Dan , Eriksson Tiina , Harjula Katja , Hokkanen Mari , Lehtinen Tuomas , Natunen Kari , Damaso Silvia , Soila Maaria , Bi Dan , Struyf Frank
Published: November 2019

We studied effectiveness of the AS04‐adjuvanted HPV‐16/18 (AS04‐HPV‐16/18) vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV) oropharyngeal infections associated with the increase of head/neck cancers in western countries. All 38,631 resident adolescents from 1994 to 1995 birth cohorts of 33 Finnish communities were invited in this community‐randomized trial (NCT00534638). During 2008–2009, 11,275 girls and 6,129 boys were enrolled in three arms of 11 communities each. In Arm A, 90% of vaccinated girls/boys, and in Arm B, 90% of vaccinated girls received AS04‐HPV‐16/18 vaccine. Other Arm A/B and all Arm C vaccinated participants received control vaccine. All Arm A participants and Arm B female participants were blinded to vaccine allocation. Oropharyngeal samples were analyzed from 4,871 18.5‐year‐old females who attended follow‐up visit 3–6 years postvaccination. HPV DNA prevalence was determined by SPF‐10 LiPA and Multiplex type‐specific PCR. Total vaccine effectiveness (VE) was defined as relative reduction of oropharyngeal HPV prevalence in pooled Arms A/B HPV‐vaccinated females vs. all Arm C females. VE against oropharyngeal HPV‐16/18, HPV‐31/45 and HPV‐31/33/45 infections were 82.4% (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 47.3–94.1), 75.3% (95%CI: 12.7–93.0) and 69.9% (95% CI: 29.6–87.1), respectively. In conclusion, the AS04‐HPV‐16/18 vaccine showed effectiveness against vaccine and nonvaccine HPV‐types oropharyngeal infections in adolescent females up to 6 years postvaccination.
Connecting the dots: Market reactions to forecasts of policy rates and forward guidance provided by the Fed
Authors: Bongard Michelle , Galati Gabriele , Moessner Richhild , Nelson William
Published: November 2019

This paper compares market reactions to forecasts of the policy rate path by the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) participants with those to forward guidance from the FOMC post‐meeting statements. The forecasts are those by FOMC participants in the quarterly Summary of Economic Projections (SEP; the “dots”). We conduct the analysis during the period when the FOMC's policy rate was at the zero lower bound. We find that market expectations of the time to lift‐off from the zero lower bound are significantly affected in the expected direction by surprises in SEP dots and in forward guidance. We also find a significant impact of macroeconomic news on market participants' expectations of time to lift‐off. These results are consistent with forward guidance about policy rates and SEP forecasts each contributing to the public's understanding of future Federal Reserve monetary policy and with the conditionality of both forms of communication about future policy rates being understood. We also present evidence that market expectations concerning the time to lift‐off are influenced by the maximum time to lift‐off implied by forward guidance, the SEP, and the economic outlook. An appendix provides the FOMC's forward guidance after each meeting from January 2012 to September 2015 and our interpretation of the implied days to lift‐off.
Strontium substituted biomimetic calcium phosphate system derived from cuttlefish bone
Authors: Ressler Antonia , Cvetnić Matija , Antunović Maja , Marijanović Inga , Ivanković Marica , Ivanković Hrvoje
Published: November 2019

Biomimetic triphasic strontium‐substituted calcium phosphate (CaP) powders were prepared by wet precipitation method at 50°C, using CaCO3, (NH2)2COH3PO4, and Sr(NO3)2 as reagents. Calcite was prepared from biogenic source (cuttlefish bone). The synthesized powders have been characterized by elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, X‐ray diffraction, Rietveld refinement studies and cell viability test. Phase transformation and ion release were analyzed during 7 days of incubation in simulated body fluid at 37°C. The raw precipitated powders were composed of calcium deficient carbonated hydroxyapatite (HA), octacalcium phosphate (OCP), and amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP). After heat treatment at 1200°C β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) was detected. Strontium substitution for calcium results in an increase of lattice parameters in HA, OCP, and β‐TCP. Sr2+ occupy the Ca(1) site in HA, Ca(3,4,7,8) sites in OCP and Ca(1,2,3,4) sites in β‐TCP. Along with Sr2+ substitution, presence of Mg2+ and Na+ ions was detected as a result of using biogenic calcium carbonate. The culture of human embryonic kidney cells indicated noncytotoxicity of the prepared CaP powders with emphasis on the cell proliferation during 3 days of culture.
LINC00665 induces gastric cancer progression through activating Wnt signaling pathway
Authors: Yang Bo , Bai Qingqing , Chen Huidong , Su Kun , Gao Chao
Published: November 2019

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are recently recognized as noteworthy regulators of different tumors, counting gastric cancer (GC). Lately, long intergenic noncoding RNA (LINC) 00665 has been verified to display significant parts in several cancers. Be that as it may, its role and mechanism in GC movement still stay uninvestigated. As of now, we observed LINC00665 was obviously GC cells (MKN28, BGC‐823, SGC7‐901, AGS, HGC‐27) in comparison to GES‐1 cells, which was identified as human normal gastric epithelial cells. Then, LINC00665 was obviously downregulated in GC cells including AGS and BGC‐823 cells. Loss of LINC00665 greatly repressed AGS and BGC‐823 cell survival and cell expansion. Moreover, GC cell apoptosis was significantly induced by the loss of LINC00665. For another, we found that the GC cell cycle was also captured in G1 and G2 phases. The experiments on cell migration and invasion indicated that knockdown of LINC00665 restrained GC cell migration and invasion. Modifications in Wnt signaling are closely associated with the development of cancers. Here, we found that Wnt signaling was significantly inactivated by the silence of LINC00665 in GC cells. β‐catenin and cyclinD1 were restrained whereas GSK‐3β was induced by the inhibition of LINC00665 in GC cells. Furthermore, we confirmed the impact of LINC00665 in vivo using xenograft models. Taken these together, we indicated that LINC00665 could function as a novel biomarker in GC progression.
Matrine involves in the progression of gastric cancer through inhibiting miR‐93‐5p and upregulating the expression of target gene AHNAK
Authors: Liu Zhi‐Min , Yang Xiao‐Li , Jiang Feng , Pan Yan‐Cheng , Zhang Li
Published: November 2019

Matrine, also known as oxymatrine, is an important active ingredient of traditional Chinese herb Sophora flavescens. Recent studies have found that matrine may inhibit multiple tumors through inhibiting the tumor cell proliferation, inducing cell apoptosis, blocking cell cycle, suppressing cell invasion and migration and assisting in the synergy, and attenuation of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This study mainly investigated the role of matrine in gastric cancer and its possible mechanism. The real‐time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction technique showed that matrine inhibited the proliferation and migration of gastric tumor cells and significantly suppressed the expression of miR‐93‐5p. The dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay indicated that AHNAK was a target gene of miR‐93‐5p and regulated by miR‐93‐5p and matrine. The torsion test demonstrated that matrine exerted its role via miR‐93‐5p while miR‐93‐5p played a role by targeting AHNAK. Thus, this study found that matrine affected the progression of gastric cancer by inhibiting the function of gastric cancer cells through the possible mechanism of inhibiting miR‐93‐5p expression to increase the expression level of the downstream target gene AHNAK.
Circular RNA hsa_circ_0030018 acts as a sponge of miR‐599 to aggravate esophageal carcinoma progression by regulating ENAH expression
Authors: Wang Chengxiang , Tang Derong , Wang Hongying , Hu Guodong , Hu Shuo , Li Lei , Min Bo , Wang Yaqin
Published: November 2019

Esophageal carcinoma (EC) bears one of the most rapid‐growing incidences in cancers, which also has the highest mortality rate worldwide. Multiple studies have authenticated that circular RNAs (circRNAs) significantly work on the progression of cancers. circRNA hsa_circ_0030018 was also verified to exert functions on the development of glioma previously. Nevertheless, the biological function of hsa_circ_0030018 in EC has not been well elucidated yet. In the present study, the results displayed the expression of hsa_circ_0030018 was dramatically increased in EC cells. Inhibition of has_circ_0030018 suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in EC. Based on molecular mechanism assays, has_circ_0030018 served as a sponge of miR‐599. Enabled homolog (ENAH), which exhibited high expression in EC cells, was confirmed to be a downstream target gene of miR‐599. Additionally, has_circ_0030018 positively regulated ENAH expression while miR‐599 negatively regulated ENAH expression. Finally, by employing rescue assays, ENAH deficiency partially counteracted the promoting function of miR‐599 silence on cell proliferation, migration, and EMT process in EC cotransfected with sh‐ has_circ_0030018#1 cells. In conclusion, hsa_circ_0030018 acted as a sponge of miR‐599 to aggravate EC progression by regulating ENAH expression. Therefore, hsa_circ_0030018 might serve as a promising biomarker and therapeutic target for EC.
Retracted: Crystal structure, molecular docking, and treatment activity on myocarditis of a co‐Schiff‐base coordination polymer
Authors: Bai Dong‐Song , Bai Li‐Ying , Zhao Ming , Zhang Qing‐Shan
Published: November 2019

This work presents the synthesis and characterization of a dicyanamide‐bridged coordination polymer {[Co2(L)2(dca)2](H2O)}n (named complex 1 hereafter) by using the N,O‐donor Schiff base ligand 2‐(((E)‐2‐(((E)‐2‐hydroxybenzylidene)amino)benzylidene)amino)phenol (H2L). Furthermore, the nanoparticles of complex 1 (denoted as nano 1 hereafter) were prepared using a green grinding approach, which has good water dispersibility. First, the coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) infection mice model was constructed successfully, and then, the nano 1 was used for treatment. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was performed to detect the CVB3 virus loading after nano 1 treatment. Besides, the left ventricular fractional shortening and the left ventricular ejection fraction were measured to evaluate the protective effect of nano 1 on cardiac functions. The hypothesis originating from the experimental observations has been further confirmed by using a molecular docking simulation.
Synthesis of carboxy‐polyethylene glycol‐amine (CA (PEG)n) and [1‐14C]‐CA (PEG)n via oxa‐Michael addition of amino‐polyethylene glycols to propiolates vs to acrylates
Authors: Song Fengbin , Chen Lu , Lin Ronghui , Salter Rhys
Published: November 2019

Synthesis of carboxy‐polyethylene glycol‐amine (CA (PEG)n) via oxa‐Michael addition of amino‐polyethylene glycols to either acrylates or propiolates was investigated. Compared with the oxa‐Michael addition to acrylates, the corresponding addition to propiolates was found to proceed under mild reaction conditions and afford the adducts in high yields from a broad scope of substrates. A two‐step efficient and convenient synthesis of benzyl [1‐14C]‐propiolate from 14CO2 was therefore developed and utilized as a common synthon to afford practical and high yielding access to [1‐14C]‐CA (PEG)n.
Scan–Rescan Repeatability and Impact of B0 and B1 Field Nonuniformity Corrections in Single‐Point Whole‐Brain Macromolecular Proton Fraction Mapping
Authors: Yarnykh Vasily L. , Kisel Alena A. , Khodanovich Marina Y.
Published: November 2019

Background

Single‐point macromolecular proton fraction (MPF) mapping is a recent quantitative MRI method for fast assessment of brain myelination. Information about reproducibility and sensitivity of MPF mapping to magnetic field nonuniformity is important for clinical applications.

Purpose

To assess scan–rescan repeatability and a value of B0 and B1 field inhomogeneity corrections in single‐point synthetic‐reference MPF mapping.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Eight healthy adult volunteers underwent two scans with 11.5 ± 2.3 months interval.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T; whole‐brain 3D MPF mapping protocol included three spoiled gradient‐echo sequences providing T1, proton density, and magnetization transfer contrasts with 1.25 × 1.25 × 1.25 mm3 resolution and B0 and B1 mapping sequences.

Assessment

MPF maps were reconstructed with B0 and B1 field nonuniformity correction, B0‐ and B1‐only corrections, and without corrections. Mean MPF values were measured in automatically segmented white matter (WM) and gray matter (GM).

Statistical Tests

Within‐subject coefficient of variation (CV), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), Bland–Altman plots, and paired t‐tests to assess scan–rescan repeatability. Repeated‐measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) to compare field corrections.

Results

Maximal relative local MPF errors without correction in the areas of largest field nonuniformities were about 5% and 27% for B0 and B1, respectively. The effect of B0 correction was insignificant for whole‐brain WM (P > 0.25) and GM (P > 0.98) MPF. The absence of B1 correction caused a positive relative bias of 4–5% (P < 0.001) in both tissues. Scan–rescan agreement was similar for all field correction options with ICCs 0.80–0.81 for WM and 0.89–0.92 for GM. CVs were 1.6–1.7% for WM and 0.7–1.0% for GM.

Data Conclusion

The single‐point method enables high repeatability of MPF maps obtained with the same equipment. Correction of B0 inhomogeneity may be disregarded to shorten the examination time. B1 nonuniformity correction improves accuracy of MPF measurements at 3T. Reliability of whole‐brain MPF measurements in WM and GM is not affected by B0 and B1 field corrections.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1789–1798.
Role of antibiotic envelopes in preventing cardiac implantable electronic device infection: A meta‐analysis of 14 859 procedures
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Doshi Rajkumar , Shariff Mariam
Published: November 2019

Introduction

We conducted an updated meta‐analysis assessing the role of antibiotic envelopes in preventing Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED)‐related infections as compared to standard infection prevention strategies.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on Medline/PubMed and EMBASE/Ovid database. We used Mantel‐Haenszel method with fixed‐effect model to compute risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). We also performed subgroup and trial sequential analysis on the data.

Results

Antibiotic envelope reduced the risk of both all infections [RR: 0.41, CI: 0.31‐0.54, P < .05, I2 = 75%, χ2 P < .05] and major infections [RR: 0.48, CI: 0.32‐0.70, P < .05, I2 = 60%, χ2 P = .04].

Conclusion

Prophylactic use of antibiotic envelopes as an adjuvant therapy to standard infection prevention strategies, helps in reducing the risk of CIED infections.
Contribution of the colicin receptor CirA to biofilm formation, antibotic resistance, and pathogenicity of Salmonella Enteritidis
Authors: Zhang Zhiqiang , Du Wannian , Wang Miao , Li Yonghui , Su Shuoqing , Wu Tonglei , Kang Yuanhuan , Shan Xiaofeng , Shi Qiumei , Zhu Guoqiang
Published: November 2019

Salmonella Enteritidis is an important foodborne pathogen that can infect a wide range of animal species including human beings, resulting in great losses to commercial husbandry and human health. CirA is an outer membrane receptor involved in iron uptake and colicin1A/B‐mediated competitive killing. Although iron uptake is crucial to bacterial virulence, limited literature is available about the role of CirA in infection. In the present work, we aimed to evaluate the role of CirA during S. Enteritidis infection. For this purpose, we generated a CirA‐deficient mutant of the S. Enteritidis strain C50336 and examined its biological characteristics. The results showed that cirA gene inactivation caused sharply decreased biofilm formation and apparently impaired antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, the cirA gene deletion mutant showed markedly reduced adhesion and invasion to human epithelial cell line Caco‐2 cells and decreased proliferation in mouse macrophage cell line RAW264.7 cells. Moreover, attenuated virulence was determined by a mouse model, with an LD50 increase of approximately 1,000‐fold. These data indicated that CirA plays critical roles in the S. Enteritidis infection process.
Survival Analysis of Enterally Fed Patients: Prognosis and Mortality Risk According to Baseline Characteristics
Authors: Iturbide‐Casas María Aurora , Cámara‐Martos Fernando , Molina‐Luque Rafael , Molina‐Recio Guillermo
Published: November 2019

Background: Enteral nutrition is widely used. However, its benefits remain unclear in specific conditions like dementia. This study assesses the survival of enterally fed patients and the baseline characteristics associated with higher mortality. Methods: A retrospective analysis of biochemical and clinical data from 377 patients (age 77.5 ± 13.8) who received enteral tube feeding (ETF) at a tertiary hospital in Spain was performed. Kaplan‐Meier and Cox regressions were used to analyze survival expectancy and mortality risk (MR). Risk was evaluated for 30/180 days and up to 5 years. Results: The most common individual diagnoses leading to ETF prescription were dementia (37.9%) and head/neck/upper–gastrointestinal‐tract cancer (17.5%). Comorbidities (high blood pressure [HBP] and/or diabetes) were present in 72.4% of patients. The first 30 days after tube placement showed the highest mortality rate, corresponding to 85.4% of patients that did not continue being tube‐fed. Multivariate Cox analysis (P < .05, 95% CI) showed HBP and glycemia to be predictive of overall (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.600; HR = 1.756) and long‐term (HR = 3.092; HR = 4.539) death. In the short‐term, only glycemia showed an increased MR (HR = 1.572). Conclusion: This enterally fed population showed a noticeably high initial mortality rate. Despite official recommendations against it, ETF is very common in advanced dementia. Baseline characteristics are useful for identifying patients that would be less benefited by the intervention. Accordingly, families should be informed about realistic outcomes and risks derived from this procedure.
Discovery of cryptotephra at Middle–Upper Paleolithic sites Arma Veirana and Riparo Bombrini, Italy: a new link for broader geographic correlations
Authors: Hirniak Jayde N. , Smith Eugene I. , Johnsen Racheal , Ren Minghua , Hodgkins Jamie , Orr Caley , Negrino Fabio , Riel‐Salvatore Julien , Fitch Shelby , Miller Christopher E. , Zerboni Andrea , Mariani Guido S. , Harris Jacob A. , Gravel‐Miguel Claudine , Strait David , Peresani Marco , Benazzi Stefano , Marean Curtis W.
Published: November 2019

Chemical characterization of cryptotephra is critical for temporally linking archaeological sites. Here, we describe cryptotephra investigations of two Middle–Upper Paleolithic sites from north‐west Italy, Arma Veirana and Riparo Bombrini. Cryptotephra are present as small (<100 µm) rhyolitic glass shards at both sites, with geochemical signatures rare for volcanoes in the Mediterranean region. Two chemically distinct shard populations are present at Arma Veirana (P1 and P2). P1 is a high silica rhyolite (>75 wt.%) with low FeO (<1 wt.%) and a K2O/Na2O > 1 and P2 is also a high silica rhyolite (>75 wt.%) but with higher FeO (2.33–2.65 wt.%). Shards at Riparo Bombrini (P3) are of the same composition as P1 shards at Arma Veirana, providing a distinct link between deposits at both sites. Geochemical characteristics suggest three possible sources for P1 and P3: eruptions from Lipari Island (56–37.7 ka) in Italy, the Acigöl volcanic field (200–20 ka) in Turkey and the Miocene Kirka‐Phrigian caldera (18 Ma) in Turkey. Eruptions from Lipari Island are the most likely source for P1,3 cryptotephra. This study highlights how cryptotephra can benefit archaeology, by providing a direct link between Arma Veirana and Riparo Bombrini as well as other deposits throughout the Mediterranean.
Analytical Method for Diacylglycerol Kinase ζ Activity in Cells Using Protein Myristoylation and Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Honda Shotaro , Murakami Chiaki , Yamada Haruka , Murakami Yuki , Ishizaki Ayuka , Sakane Fumio
Published: November 2019

Specific inhibitors of diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) ζ can be promising anticancer medications via the activation of cancer immunity. Although the detection of cellular activities of target enzymes is essential for drug screening in addition to in vitro assays, it is difficult to detect the activity of DGKζ in cells. In the present study, we generated AcGFP‐DGKζ cDNA with a consensus N‐myristoylation sequence at the 5′ end (Myr‐AcGFP‐DGKζ) to target DGKζ to membranes. Using liquid chromatography (LC)‐tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) (LC–MS/MS), we showed that Myr‐AcGFP‐DGKζ, but not AcGFP‐DGKζ without the myristoylation sequence, substantially augmented the levels of several phosphatidic acid (PtdOH) species. In contrast to Myr‐AcGFP‐DGKζ, its inactive mutant did not exhibit an increase in PtdOH production, indicating that the increase in PtdOH production was DGK activity‐dependent. This method will be useful in chemical compound selection for the development of drugs targeting DGKζ and can be applicable to various soluble (nonmembrane bound) lipid‐metabolizing enzymes, including other DGK isozymes.
Hot Polarons with Trapped Excitons and Octahedra‐Twist Phonons in CH3NH3PbBr3 Hybrid Perovskite Nanowires
Authors: Song Feilong , Qian Chenjiang , Wang Yunuan , Zhang Feng , Peng Kai , Wu Shiyao , Xie Xin , Yang Jingnan , Sun Sibai , Yu Yang , Dang Jianchen , Xiao Shan , Yang Longlong , Jin Kuijuan , Zhong Haizheng , Xu Xiulai
Published: November 2019

Hybrid Perovskites have shown a great potential for applications in photovoltaics and light‐emitting devices with high efficiency. Interaction between defect‐induced trapped excitons and phonons plays an important role in understanding the emerging phenomena for such an excellent figure‐of‐merit. Here hot polarons with narrow linewidth in CH3NH3PbBr3 nanowires, which originate from the interaction between trapped excitons and octahedra‐twist phonons, are demonstrated. The observation of hot polarons in photoluminescence without gain methods indicates the large interaction strength between excitons and phonons. The multiple hot polarons are further confirmed by magneto‐optical spectra with a Zeeman splitting of the trapped excitons and a phonon energy increase with diamagnetic effect. Furthermore, the phonons participating in the interaction are demonstrated to be the octahedra‐twist vibrations which are transverse optical phonons, while the interaction between trapped excitons and longitudinal optical phonons is weak. The work demonstrates that trapped excitons in perovskites prefer to interact with transverse rather than longitudinal optical phonons. Since bulk materials usually interact with longitudinal optical phonons, this result provides a physical explanation of the high tolerance of defects in perovskites.
Insight into selective oxidation of dual‐phase steel after annealing in pure H2 atmosphere at different heating rates and temperatures
Authors: Wu Guangxin , Zhang Jieyu
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the oxidation behaviors of DP980 advanced high strength steel (AHSS) are studied during annealing in a hydrogen atmosphere with different temperatures and heating rates. It is revealed that with the increase in holding time, the different heating rates affecting the surface oxide precipitation on the strip surface will be weakened. Mass transfer of Mn in heating, soaking, and cooling stages has been considered to illustrate the effect of heating rate on the oxide morphology of steel. And then, the Wagner model and aluminothermic reaction kinetics were performed to discuss the transition from external to internal and maximum reduction diameter of MnO oxidation.
Role of polyacrylamide concentration on corrosion behavior of N80 steel in the HPAM/H2S/CO2 environment
Authors: Dong Baojun , Zeng Dezhi , Yu Zhiming , Zhang Haixin , Yu Huiyong , Tian Gang , Yi Yonggang
Published: November 2019

The effect of polyacrylamide on corrosion behavior of N80 steel in the HPAM/H2S/CO2 environment was studied by using weight‐loss and electrochemical tests to simulate the environment of production wells in polymer flooding. The morphology and composition of corrosion scales were studied by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometer, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results show that as the polyacrylamide concentration increases, the uniform corrosion rate of N80 steel decreases gradually. The safe service life of N80 steel grows along with the increase of the concentration of polyacrylamide. The corrosion scales of N80 steel in the HPAM/H2S/CO2 environment is split into two layers, an inner layer of O‐rich composed of FeCO3 and an outer layer of S‐rich consisting of FeS. Polyacrylamide adsorbs on the surface of N80 steel to form a protective network, which blocks contact between the metal and the solution and then inhibits the anodic dissolution of the metal. Moreover, the growth of polyacrylamide concentration increases the pH value of the solution and promotes the ionization of H2S, HS−, and H2CO3 in the solution.
Metal‐Free Ring‐Opening Alternating Copolymerization of Epoxides and Cyclic Anhydrides Mediated by a Ternary Phosphazene Base and Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Kou Xinhui , Li Yongzheng , Shen Yong , Li Zhibo
Published: November 2019

Organocatalytic, metal‐free ring‐opening alternating copolymerization (ROAP) of epoxides and cyclic anhydrides to produce polyesters with well‐defined alternating structure remains a challenge despite several organocatalysts having been reported. Herein, the ROAP of cyclohexene oxide (CHO) with phthalic anhydride (PA) using a series of carboxylic acids as initiator in the presence of an organic cyclic trimetric phosphazene base (CTPB) as catalyst is reported. The molar ratio of CTPB to carboxylic acid is proven to be crucial to obtain polyester with well‐defined alternating structure without formation of polyether homopolymer. The effects of carboxylic acid, temperature and feed molar ratio on monomer conversions and resultant molecular weights of poly(PA‐alt‐CHO) are systematically investigated. This work enriches the opinion of initiator for the ROAP of epoxides and cyclic anhydrides.
Flame Retardancy and Mechanical Properties of Bio‐Based Furan Epoxy Resins with High Crosslink Density
Authors: Meng Jingjing , Zeng Yushun , Chen Pengfei , Zhang Jie , Yao Cheng , Fang Zheng , Ouyang Pingkai , Guo Kai
Published: November 2019

This work outlines an interesting approach to bioepoxy resins from sustainable 2,5‐bis((oxiran‐2‐ylmethoxy)methyl)furan (BOF). The 3,3′‐diamino diphenyl‐sulfone (33DDS) and 4,4′‐diamino diphenyl‐sulfone (44DDS) are employed as hardeners. For comparison, petro‐based networks from diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) are developed as well. The systematic analyses suggest that the BOF/DDS networks show higher crosslink densities and mechanical properties than DGEBA/DDS thermosets. Remarkably, an attractive multilayer tubular microstructure is fabricated in the BOF/44DDS thermosets, and it greatly enhances the mechanical performance. Apart from that, BOF/DDS composites exhibit excellent flame retardancy. Especially, for BOF/44DDS, the self‐extinguishment happens in 7 s. The fire retardant mechanism confirms that a low heat release rate and heat release capacity as well as a compact char layer occur in the pyrolysis of BOF/DDS. Thus, the BOF/DDS exhibits superior performance over its DGEBA counterparts and meets a wide variety of requirements in engineering.
MULTIOMIC PATTERNS IN BODY FLUIDS: TECHNOLOGICAL CHALLENGE WITH A GREAT POTENTIAL TO IMPLEMENT THE ADVANCED PARADIGM OF 3P MEDICINE
Authors: Gerner Christopher , Costigliola Vincenzo , Golubnitschaja Olga
Published: November 2019

Liquid biopsy (LB) is defined as a sample of any of body fluids (blood, saliva, tear fluid, urine, sweat, amniotic, cerebrospinal and pleural fluids, cervicovaginal secretion, and wound efflux, amongst others), which can be ex vivo analysed to detect and quantity the target(s) of interest. LB represents diagnostic approach relevant for organ‐specific changes and systemic health conditions including both manifested diseases and their prestages such as suboptimal health. Further, experts emphasise that DNA‐based analysis alone does not provide sufficient information for optimal diagnostics and effective treatments. Consequently, of great scientific and clinical utility are molecular patterns detected by hybrid technologies such as metabolomic tools and molecular imaging. Future proposed strategies utilise multiomic pillars (generally genome, tanscriptome, proteome, metabolome, epigenome, radiome, and microbiome), system‐biological approach, and multivariable algorithms for diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic purposes. Current article analyses pros and cons of the mass spectrometry‐based technologies, provides eminent examples of a success story “from discovery to clinical application,” and demonstrates a “road‐map” for the technology‐driven paradigm change from reactive to predictive, preventive and personalised medical services as the medicine of the future benefiting the patient and healthcare at large. © 2019 The Authors. Mass Spectrometry Reviews published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. Mass Spec Rev
The Anterior Caudate Nucleus Supports Impulsive Choices Triggered by Pramipexole
Authors: Martinez Eva , Pasquereau Benjamin , Saga Yosuke , Météreau Élise , Tremblay Léon
Published: November 2019

Background

Pramipexole is a dopamine agonist used as a treatment in PD and restless legs syndrome to reduce motor symptoms, but it often induces impulse control disorders. In particular, patients with impulse control disorders tend to make more impulsive choices in the delay discounting task, that is, they choose small immediate rewards over larger delayed ones more often than patients without impulse control disorders and healthy subjects do. Yet the site of action of pramipexole that produces these impulsive choices remains unknown. Based on the heterogeneity of corticostriatal projections and the massive dopamine innervation of the striatum, we hypothesized that impulsive choices triggered by dopamine treatments may be supported by a specific striatal territory.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to determine by which anteriorstriatum territory the Pramipexole trigger impulsive choices; the caudate nucleus, the ventral striatum or the putamen.

METHODS

We compared pramipexole intramuscular injections to intracerebral microinjections within the three striatal territories in healthy monkeys trained to execute the delay discounting task, a behavioral paradigm typically used to evaluate impulsive choices.

RESULTS

We found that pramipexole intramuscular injections induced impulsive choices in all monkeys. Local microinjections were performed inside the anterior caudate nucleus, ventral striatum, and anterior putamen and reproduced those impulsive choices when pramipexole was directly injected into the caudate nucleus, whereas injections into the ventral striatum or putamen had no effect on monkeys’ choices.

CONCLUSIONS

These results, consistent with clinical studies, suggest that impulsive choices triggered by pramipexole are supported by the caudate nucleus, allowing us to emphasize the importance of dopamine modulation inside this striatal territory in decision processes underlying impulsive behaviors. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Antibiotic Exposure and Risk of Parkinson's Disease in Finland: A Nationwide Case‐Control Study
Authors: Mertsalmi Tuomas H. , Pekkonen Eero , Scheperjans Filip
Published: November 2019

Background

Gut microbiota alterations have been found in prodromal and established Parkinson's disease (PD). Antibiotic exposure can have long‐term effects on the composition of human intestinal microbiota, but a potential connection between antibiotic exposure and risk of PD has not been studied previously.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of antibiotic exposure on the risk of PD in a nationwide, register‐based, case‐control study.

Methods

We identified all patients who were diagnosed with PD in Finland during the years 1998 to 2014. Information was obtained on individual purchases of orally administered antibiotics during the years 1993 to 2014. We assessed the association between prior antibiotic exposure and PD using conditional logistic regression.

Results

The study population consisted of 13,976 PD cases and 40,697 controls. The strongest connection with PD risk was found for oral exposure to macrolides and lincosamides (adjusted odds ratio up to 1.416; 95% confidence interval, 1.053–1.904). After correction for multiple comparisons, exposure to antianaerobics and tetracyclines 10 to 15 years before the index date, sulfonamides and trimethoprim 1 to 5 years before the index date, and antifungal medications 1 to 5 years before the index date were positively associated with PD risk. In post hoc analyses, further positive associations were found for broad‐spectrum antibiotics.

Conclusions

Exposure to certain types of oral antibiotics seems to be associated with an elevated risk of PD with a delay that is consistent with the proposed duration of a prodromal period. The pattern of associations supports the hypothesis that effects on gut microbiota could link antibiotics to PD, but further studies are needed to confirm this. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Extensive genic and allelic heterogeneity underlying inherited retinal dystrophies in Mexican patients molecularly analyzed by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Zenteno Juan C. , García‐Montaño Leopoldo A. , Cruz‐Aguilar Marisa , Ronquillo Josué , Rodas‐Serrano Agustín , Aguilar‐Castul Luis , Matsui Rodrigo , Vencedor‐Meraz Carlos I. , Arce‐González Rocío , Graue‐Wiechers Federico , Gutiérrez‐Paz Mario , Urrea‐Victoria Tatiana , de Dios Cuadras Ulises , Chacón‐Camacho Oscar F.
Published: November 2019

Background

Retinal dystrophies (RDs) are one of the most genetically heterogeneous monogenic disorders with ~270 associated loci identified by early 2019. The recent application of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) has greatly improved the molecular diagnosis of RD patients. Genetic characterization of RD cohorts from different ethnic groups is justified, as it would improve the knowledge of molecular basis of the disease. Here, we present the results of genetic analysis in a large cohort of 143 unrelated Mexican subjects with a variety of RDs.

Methods

A targeted NGS approach covering 199 RD genes was employed for molecular screening of 143 unrelated patients. In addition to probands, 258 relatives were genotyped by Sanger sequencing for familial segregation of pathogenic variants.

Results

A solving rate of 66% (95/143) was achieved, with evidence of extensive loci (44 genes) and allelic (110 pathogenic variants) heterogeneity. Forty‐eight percent of the identified pathogenic variants were novel while ABCA4, CRB1, USH2A, and RPE65 carried the greatest number of alterations. Novel deleterious variants in IDH3B and ARL6 were identified, supporting their involvement in RD. Familial segregation of causal variants allowed the recognition of 124 autosomal or X‐linked carriers.

Conclusion

Our results illustrate the utility of NGS for genetic diagnosis of RDs of different populations for a better knowledge of the mutational landscape associated with the disease.
Study finds smoking increases depression, schizophrenia risk
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: November 2019

While previous research has attested that more people with mental health conditions smoke compared to the general population — more than 40% by most reports — could smoking tobacco increase the risk of developing a mental illness? Researchers from the United Kingdom think so. A new study published online in Psychological Medicine suggests that smoking increases the risk of both depression and schizophrenia.
Interleukin‐1 Receptor‐1 Deficiency Impairs Metabolic Function in Pregnant and Non‐Pregnant Female Mice
Authors: Plows Jasmine F , Vickers Mark H , Ganapathy Thashma P , Bridge‐Comer Pania E , Stanley Joanna L , Reynolds Clare M
Published: November 2019

Scope

Glucose intolerance during pregnancy is associated with short‐ and long‐term maternal and offspring health consequences. In young male mice, knockout of the major pro‐inflammatory mediator interleukin‐1‐receptor‐1 (IL1R1) protects against high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced glucose intolerance and metabolic dysfunction. This phenotype has not been examined during pregnancy. The hypothesis that IL1R1 depletion will protect females against HFD‐induced glucose intolerance and metabolic dysfunction before, during, and post pregnancy is tested.

Methods and results

C57BL/6J control and IL1R1 knockout (IL1R1−/−) mice are randomized to either a control diet (10% kcal from fat) or HFD (45% kcal from fat), and three distinct cohorts are established: nulliparous, pregnant, and postpartum females. Contrary to the authors’ hypothesis, it is found that IL1R1−/− does not protect against glucose intolerance in nulliparous or pregnant females, and while control HFD animals see a resolution of glucose tolerance postpartum, IL‐1R1−/− mice remain impaired. These effects are accompanied by adipocyte hypertrophy, hyperleptinemia, and increased adipose tissue inflammatory gene expression. Maternal genotype differentially affects fetal growth in male and female fetuses, demonstrating sexual dimorphism in this genotype prior to birth.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that IL1R1 signaling is important for normal metabolic functioning in females, during and outside of pregnancy.
Radiation characteristics enhancement of dual‐polarized antipodal Vivaldi antenna using double‐slot structure
Authors: Kim Woojoong , Park Jinsung , Park Hyeon‐Gyu , Yoon Young J.
Published: November 2019

In this article, a dual‐polarized double‐slot antipodal Vivaldi antenna (DP‐DsAVA) is proposed to solve the problem of conventional four‐element dual‐polarized antipodal Vivaldi antennas in that the side lobe level increases as frequency increases, and a grating lobe is generated at frequencies above one octave. The DP‐DsAVA comprises two modified double‐slot antipodal Vivaldi antennas (DsAVAs), which are suitable for dual‐polarized implementation through incision and intersection, and each crossed DsAVA implements each polarization separately. Therefore, the proposed antenna does not produce a grating lobe within the operating frequency range, and it has a lower side lobe level compared to that of a conventional antenna. Measurements of the proposed antenna indicate that its impedance bandwidth is 5.4 to 16.4 GHz, and no grating lobe occurs within this bandwidth. At the operating frequency, the gain is 8.4 to 10.6 dBi, and the cross‐polarization level is below −18 dB.
Compensation method for signal drift induced by time delay difference in phase retrieval algorithm for distributed fiber interferometry using asymmetric 3 × 3 coupler
Authors: Li Churui , Ye Zi , Yan Yuze , Wang Chao
Published: November 2019

Phase retrieval algorithm is an important part of optic‐fiber interferometry system. In this article, drift of the retrieved signal caused by the time delay difference between two interference signals from asymmetric 3 × 3 coupler is theoretically analyzed, and a compensation algorithm to solve this problem is proposed. Through simulation and experiment in real sensing system, the compensation algorithm can effectively eliminate the signal drift induced by the time delay difference, and enhance the accuracy of the signal in real sensing system.
Performance comparison of prediction filters for respiratory motion tracking in radiotherapy
Authors: Jöhl Alexander , Ehrbar Stefanie , Guckenberger Matthias , Klöck Stephan , Meboldt Mirko , Zeilinger Melanie , Tanadini‐Lang Stephanie , Schmid Daners Marianne
Published: November 2019

Purpose

In precision radiotherapy, the intrafractional motion causes substantial uncertainty. Traditionally, the target volume is expanded to cover the tumor in all positions. Alternative approaches are gating and adaptive tracking, which require a time delay as small as possible between the actual tumor motion and the reaction to effectively compensate the motion. Current treatment machines often exhibit large time delays. Prediction filters offer a promising means to mitigate these time delays by predicting the future respiratory motion.

Methods

A total of 18 prediction filters were implemented and their hyperparameters optimized for various time delays and noise levels. A set of 93 traces were standardized to a sampling frequency of 25 Hz and smoothed using the Fourier transform with a 3 Hz cutoff frequency. The hyperparameter optimization was carried out with ten traces, and the optimal hyperparameters were evaluated on the remaining 83 traces.

Results

For smooth traces, the wavelet least mean squares prediction filter and the linear filter reached normalized root mean square errors of below 0.05 for time delays of 160 and 480 ms, respectively. For noisy signals, the performance of the prediction filters deteriorated and led to similar results.

Conclusions

Linear methods for prediction filters are sufficient for respiratory motion signals. Reducing the measurement noise generally improves the performance of the prediction filters investigated in this study, even during breathing irregularities.
Plasma membrane proteome of adhesion‐competent endometrial epithelial cells and its modulation by Rab11a
Authors: Kakar‐Bhanot Ruchi , Brahmbhatt Krupanshi , Kumar Vipin , Suryawanshi Amol R. , Srivastava Sanjeeva , Chaudhari Uddhav , Sachdeva Geetanjali
Published: November 2019

Human endometrial epithelium (EE) is composed of a multitude of proteins, amongst which those localized on the plasma membrane [plasma membrane proteins (PMPs)] are of critical relevance in the early stages of implantation. Evidence supports the key role of few PMPs in implantation. However, many remain unidentified, as efforts have not been made till date to generate the plasma membrane proteome of human EE cells, using a gel‐free approach. This study presents a protein catalog of the PMP enriched fraction of Ishikawa cell line; often used as an in vitro model for embryo‐adhesive EE. Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry identified 3,598 proteins. Of these, 1,963 proteins were annotated for their membrane localization. Of 1,963 proteins, 1,321 were found to have a transmembrane domain and 43 proteins had glycophosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor. Extensive data mining revealed endometrial expression of 943 proteins reported in humans and/or rodents. Further, quantitative alterations were observed in the plasma membrane proteome on the perturbation of intracellular trafficking. Silencing of Rab11a (known for its role in plasma membrane organization) expression caused alteration in the abundance of 74 proteins. Caveolin‐1 and EpCAM levels were reduced whereas Rab4a abundance increased in the PMP extracts of Rab11a deficient cells, compared with control cells. Briefly, the study reports the identity of several novel plasma membrane‐localized proteins. A major spin‐off of the study is the identification of novel proteins trafficked by Rab11a to the plasma membrane. Targeted analysis of novel PMPs may reveal their specific roles in endometrial receptivity and implantation.
Do women have an accurate perception of their pelvic floor muscle contraction? A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Uechi Natalia , Fernandes Ana C. N. L. ,  Bø Kari , de Freitas Letícia M. , de la Ossa Aura M. P. , Bueno Sabrina M. , Ferreira Cristine H. J.
Published: November 2019

Aims

To assess women's self‐perception of their pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contraction and its agreement with an assessed PFM contraction. Further, to assess a possible correlation between women's self‐perception and reports of urinary incontinence (UI) and between PFM contraction and severity of UI.

Methods

A cross‐sectional observational study including 82 women. The study was conducted in a basic healthcare unit in Brazil. PFM contraction was assessed by a physiotherapist and estimated by women using the Modified Oxford Scale (MOS). UI symptoms were assessed using a validated questionnaire (ICIQ‐UI‐SF). A descriptive analysis of the data was performed. The weighted κ coefficient, Spearman's correlation coefficient, and Fisher's exact test were used to analyze data.

Results

Eighty‐two women with a mean age of 46.83 (±17.94) were analyzed. The majority (98.8%) believed they were able to voluntarily contract their PFM, but only 33% correctly estimated their PFM considering the examiner assessment as reference. No agreement (κ = 0.139, P = .087) was found between the examiner's classification and the women's estimation of their PFM contraction. Women's self‐perception did not correlate with the ICIQ‐IU‐SF (r's = .011, P = .922). A moderate negative correlation was found between the assessed PFM contraction and the ICIQ‐UI‐SF score (r's = −.406, P = .00).

Conclusion

Most of the women did not show an accurate self‐perception of PFM contraction. No correlation between women's self‐perception and the ICIQ‐UI‐SF score was found, but a negative correlation was found between the assessed PFM contraction and the ICIQ‐UI‐SF score.
Optimal source placement for point coverage in active multistatic sonar networks
Authors: Craparo Emily , Karatas Mumtaz
Published: November 2019

The allocation of underwater sensors for tracking, localization, and surveillance purposes is a fundamental problem in anti‐submarine warfare. Inexpensive passive receivers have been heavily utilized in recent years; however, modern submarines are increasingly quiet and difficult to detect with receivers alone. Recently, the idea of deploying noncollocated sources and receivers has emerged as a promising alternative to purely passive sensor fields and to traditional sonar fields composed of collocated sources and receivers. Such a multistatic sonar network carries a number of advantages, but it also brings increased system complexity resulting from its unusual coverage patterns. In this work, we study the problem of optimally positioning active multistatic sonar sources for a point coverage application where all receivers and points of interest are fixed and stationary. Using a definite range sensor model, we formulate exact methods and approximation algorithms for this problem and compare these algorithms via computational experiments. We also examine the performance of these algorithms on a discrete approximation of a continuous area coverage problem and find that they offer a significant improvement over two types of random sensor deployment.