bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of self‐healing star metallopolymers by metal–ligand crosslinking
Authors: Handique Junali , Gogoi Joly , Dolui Swapan K.
Published: October 2019

The development of artificial materials with reversible and efficient self‐healing property is an emerging and challenging task in intelligent materials science. In this article, we have developed a six‐arm star copolymer system consisting of terpyridine moieties as end‐chain functionality for the formation of self‐healing metallopolymer networks. The star was synthesized using the atom transfer radical polymerization technique and subsequent crosslinking by the addition of iron (II) salts with three different counterions. The resulting materials exhibit promising self‐healing performance as compared with a linear polymer system within time intervals of 6–8 h at moderate temperatures of 80–120 °C. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48527.
Thermomechanical properties and deformation behavior of a unidirectional carbon‐fiber‐reinforced shape memory polymer composite laminate
Authors: Lan Xin , Liu Liwu , Liu Yanju , Leng Jinsong
Published: October 2019

A shape memory polymer (SMP) demonstrates large reversible deformation functionality upon exposure to heating stimuli. In this study, the thermomechanical properties and deformation behavior of a unidirectional carbon‐fiber‐reinforced SMP composite (SMPC) laminate were studied. The findings can be used as a basis to design angle‐ply laminated plates, woven laminated plates, or special laminated structures used for space deployment. The fundamental static and dynamic mechanical properties of SMP and SMPC were characterized. The fiber‐reinforced SMPC exhibited local postmicrobuckling behavior and obtained a high‐reversible macroscale strain of 9.6%, which enabled the high‐reversible deformation to be used for foldable structures in space. The state of critical failure of bending deformation was determined through microscale morphology observations and provided the upper limit in the design of SMPC structures. The evolution of the key shape memory properties (e.g., recovery speed and recovery ratio) during deformation cycles was characterized, and it offered the general recovery performance of a space deployable structure. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48532.
Cross‐Sectional Geometry and Scaling in the Baculum of Cuban Hutias (Rodentia: Capromyidae)
Authors: Casinos Adrià , García‐Martínez Rubén , Borroto‐Páez Rafael
Published: October 2019

Bacula from 61 individual hutia (Rodentia) from five species were studied. The purpose was to investigate cross‐sectional geometry as an indicator of mechanical behavior in order to answer questions around the origin and maintenance of the mammalian baculum. From images of the apical and basal cross sections, the following variables were calculated: perimeter, cross‐sectional area, maximum second moment of area, and polar moment. An allometric analysis showed that these variables were related to body size. The orientation of the maximum second moment of area was analyzed by means of circular statistics. This orientation was transverse in both the apical and basal cross sections. Values for the second moment of area and polar moment, obtained from the predicted value of the allometric equations, showed that either the bending moment or the twisting moment of the baculum must be relatively low in hutias, compared with those of the radius in the same species. The results of the second moment of area predict that the main bending stress acting on the baculum is transverse. At the same time, shear stress would not be negligible. Anat Rec, 303:1346–1353, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Paw Morphology in the Domestic Guinea Pig (Cavia porcellus) and Brown Rat (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors: Barbera Adam M. , Delaunay Mariane G. , Dougill Gary , Grant Robyn A.
Published: October 2019

Mammals have adapted to different habitats, food types, and modes of locomotion, which are reflected in a diverse range of paw morphologies. While the behavior of rats and guinea pigs is well defined, especially in terms of their locomotor and foraging behaviors, the anatomy of their foot pads has not yet been explored and compared. This study investigated adaptations in paw morphology in the domestic guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) and the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus). We predicted that rat paws would display adaptations associated with paw dexterity for handling prey items and climbing, whereas guinea pig paws would support mechanical pressure absorption for a herbivorous, sedentary, and terrestrial lifestyle. Using histology techniques and scanning electron microscope, we show that rat paws have many small, deformable pads that are relatively spaced out to enable movement. The pads are clustered toward the anterior of the foot, which coincides with where the most force occurs during locomotion, as rats walk on their toes and toward the front of their paw. Guinea pigs had fewer and larger pads and the posterior pad of the forepaw was textured and contained cartilage, which may act to reduce friction and compression during standing and locomotion. We suggest that differences in paw morphology in rat and guinea pig are associated with loading during locomotion as well as paw mobility. Examining paw morphology and movement abilities in more species will give further insights in to the evolution of locomotor adaptations and paw dexterity in rodents. Anat Rec, 302:2300–2310, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Improved Mitochondrial Metabolism and Reduced Inflammation Following Attenuation of Murine Lupus With Coenzyme Q10 Analog Idebenone
Authors: Blanco Luz P. , Pedersen Hege L. , Wang Xinghao , Lightfoot Yaíma L. , Seto Nickie , Carmona‐Rivera Carmelo , Yu Zu‐Xi , Hoffmann Victoria , Yuen Peter S. T. , Kaplan Mariana J.
Published: October 2019

Objective

A role for mitochondrial dysfunction has been proposed in the immune dysregulation and organ damage characteristic of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Idebenone is a coenzyme Q10 synthetic quinone analog and an antioxidant that has been used in humans to treat diverse diseases in which mitochondrial function is impaired. This study was undertaken to assess whether idebenone ameliorates lupus in murine models.

Methods

Idebenone was administered orally to MRL/lpr mice at 2 different doses (1 gm/kg or 1.5 gm/kg idebenone‐containing diet) for 8 weeks. At peak disease activity, clinical, immunologic, and metabolic parameters were analyzed and compared to those in untreated mice (n = 10 per treatment group). Results were confirmed in the lupus‐prone NZM2328 mouse model.

Results

In MRL/lpr mice, idebenone‐treated mice showed a significant reduction in mortality incidence (P < 0.01 versus untreated mice), and the treatment attenuated several disease features, including glomerular inflammation and fibrosis (each P < 0.05 versus untreated mice), and improved renal function in association with decreased renal expression of interleukin‐17A (IL‐17A) and mature IL‐18. Levels of splenic proinflammatory cytokines and inflammasome‐related genes were significantly decreased (at least P < 0.05 and some with higher significance) in mice treated with idebenone, while no obvious drug toxicity was observed. Idebenone inhibited neutrophil extracellular trap formation in neutrophils from lupus‐prone mice (P < 0.05) and human patients with SLE. Idebenone also improved mitochondrial metabolism (30% increase in basal respiration and ATP production), reduced the extent of heart lipid peroxidation (by one‐half that of untreated mice), and significantly improved endothelium‐dependent vasorelaxation (P < 0.001). NZM2328 mice exposed to idebenone also displayed improvements in renal and systemic inflammation, reducing the kidney pathology score (P < 0.05), IgG/C3 deposition (P < 0.05), and the gene expression of interferon, proinflammatory, and inflammasome‐related genes (at least P < 0.05 and some with higher significance).

Conclusion

Idebenone ameliorates murine lupus disease activity and the severity of organ damage, supporting the hypothesis that agents that modulate mitochondrial biologic processes may have a therapeutic role in human SLE.
Chemical Degradation of Mercury Alkyls Mediated by Copper Selenide Nanosheets
Authors: Chalana Ashish , Karri Ramesh , Mandal Shyama Charan , Pathak Biswarup , Roy Gouriprasanna
Published: October 2019

Methylation and demethylation of mercury compounds are two important competing processes that control the net production of highly toxic mercury alkyls, methylmercury (MeHg+) and dimethylmercury (Me2Hg), in environment. Although the microbial and the photochemical methylation and demethylation processes are well studied in recent years but the chemical methylation and demethylation processes have not been studied well. Herein, we report for the first time that the CuSe nanosheet has remarkable ability to activate the highly inert Hg−C bonds of various MeHg+ and Me2Hg compounds at room temperature (21 °C). It facilitates the conversion of MeHg+ into Me2Hg in the absence of any proton donors. Whereas, in the presence of any proton source, it has unique ability to degrade MeHg+ into CH4 and inorganic mercury (Hg2+). Detailed studies revealed that the relatively fast Hg−C bond cleavage was observed in case of MeHgSPh or MeHgI in comparison to MeHgCl, indicating that the Hg−C bond in MeHgCl is relatively inert in nature. On the other hand, the Hg−C bond in Me2Hg is considered to be exceedingly inert and, thus, difficult to cleave at room temperature. However, CuSe nanosheets showed unique ability to degrade Me2Hg into CH4 and Hg2+, via the formation of MeHg+, under acidic conditions at room temperature. DFT calculations revealed that the Hg−C bond activation occurs through adsorption on the surface of (100)‐faceted CuSe nanosheets.
A Water‐Stable Uranyl Organic Framework as a Highly Selective and Sensitive Bifunctional Luminescent Probe for Fe3+ and Tetracycline Hydrochloride
Authors: Wang Long , Xu Wei , Li Wen‐Ying , Xie Miao , Zheng Yue‐Qing
Published: October 2019

A new coordination polymer (H2bpy)0.5⋅[(UO2)1.5(ipa)2(H2O)] (1) (H2ipa=isophthalic acid, bpy=4,4′‐bipyridine) was synthesized by hydrothermal condition. It was characterized by IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, TG‐DTA analysis, and powder X‐ray diffraction. Analysis of single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction results showed that the title compound exhibited a double chain bridged by the different uranyl ions and ipa2− ligands. Through the hydrogen bond interactions and π⋅⋅⋅π stacking interactions, the double chains were assembled into the three‐dimensional supramolecular framework. Furthermore, the compound can be used as a promising bifunctional luminescence sensor for detecting and identifying Fe3+ and tetracycline hydrochloride antibiotic molecules with high selectivity and sensitivity in aqueous solutions. Moreover, the luminescent sensing mechanisms for different analytes were proposed. Moreover, the electronic properties of title compound were explored by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The sensor system has been successfully applied for the detection of Fe3+ and tetracycline hydrochloride with high recovery percentages and low relative standard deviation in real river water samples.
Autism spectrum disorder polygenic scores are associated with every day executive function in children admitted for clinical assessment
Authors: Torske Tonje , Nærland Terje , Bettella Francesco , Bjella Thomas , Malt Eva , Høyland Anne Lise , Stenberg Nina , Øie Merete Glenne , Andreassen Ole A.
Published: October 2019

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDs) are behaviorally defined disorders with overlapping clinical features that are often associated with higher‐order cognitive dysfunction, particularly executive dysfunction. Our aim was to determine if the polygenic score (PGS) for ASD is associated with parent‐reported executive dysfunction in everyday life using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). Furthermore, we investigated if PGS for general intelligence (INT) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) also correlate with BRIEF. We included 176 children, adolescents and young adults aged 5–22 years with full‐scale intelligence quotient (IQ) above 70. All were admitted for clinical assessment of ASD symptoms and 68% obtained an ASD diagnosis. We found a significant difference between low and high ASD PGS groups in the BRIEF behavior regulation index (BRI) (P = 0.015, Cohen's d = 0.69). A linear regression model accounting for age, sex, full‐scale IQ, Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) total score, ASD, ADHD and INT PGS groups as well as genetic principal components, significantly predicted the BRI score; F(11,130) = 8.142, P < 0.001, R2 = 0.41 (unadjusted). Only SRS total (P < 0.001), ASD PGS 0.1 group (P = 0.018), and sex (P = 0.022) made a significant contribution to the model. This suggests that the common ASD risk gene variants have a stronger association to behavioral regulation aspects of executive dysfunction than ADHD risk or INT variants in a clinical sample with ASD symptoms. Autism Res 2020, 13: 207–220. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have difficulties with higher‐order cognitive processes that regulate thoughts and actions during goal‐directed behavior, also known as executive function (EF). We studied the association between genetics related to ASD and EF and found a relation between high polygenic score (PGS) for ASD and difficulties with behavior regulation aspects of EF in children and adolescents under assessment for ASD. Furthermore, high PGS for general intelligence was related to social problems.
Motor learning and transfer between real and virtual environments in young people with autism spectrum disorder: A prospective randomized cross over controlled trial
Authors: de Moraes Íbis Ariana Peña , Monteiro Carlos Bandeira de Mello , Silva Talita Dias da , Massetti Thais , Crocetta Tânia Brusque , de Menezes Lilian Del Ciello , Andrade Gilda Pena de Rezende , Ré Alessandro Hervaldo Nicolai , Dawes Helen , Coe Shelly , Magalhães Fernando Henrique
Published: October 2019

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction, including impaired multisensory integration, which might negatively impact cognitive and motor skill performance, and hence negatively affect learning of tasks. Considering that tasks in virtual environment may provide an engaging tool as adjuncts to conventional therapies, we set out to compare motor performance between young people with ASD and a typically developing (TD) control group that underwent coincident timing tasks based on Kinect (no physical contact) and on Keyboard (with physical contact) environments. Using a randomized repeated cross‐over controlled trial design, 50 young people with ASD and 50 with TD, matched by age and sex were divided into subgroups of 25 people that performed the two first phases of the study (acquisition and retention) on the same device—real or virtual—and then switched to the other device to repeat acquisition and retention phases and finally switched on to a touch screen (transfer phase). Results showed that practice in the virtual task was more difficult (producing more errors), but led to a better performance in the subsequent practice in the real task, with more pronounced improvement in the ASD as compared to the TD group. It can be concluded that the ASD group managed to transfer the practice from a virtual to a real environment, indicating that virtual methods may enhance learning of motor and cognitive skills. A need for further exploration of its effect across a number of tasks and activities is warranted. Autism Res 2020, 13: 307–319. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder are known to have difficulties with learning motor tasks. Considering that performing motor tasks in virtual environment may be an engaging tool as adjuncts to conventional therapies, we aimed to estimate performance in tasks regardless of physical touch. Results showed that participants had more difficulty using the non‐touch task; however, virtual training improved performance on the physical (real) task. This result indicates that virtual methods could be a promising therapeutic approach for the ASD population.
Molecular mechanism of the association and dissociation of Deltarasin from the heterodimeric KRas4B‐PDEδ complex
Authors: Bello Martiniano , Correa‐Basurto José , Vargas‐Mejía Miguel Á.
Published: October 2019

The formation of the KRas4B‐PDEδ complex activates different signaling pathways required for the development and maintenance of cancer. Previous experimental and theoretical studies have allowed researchers to design an inhibitor of the KRas4B‐PDEδ complex, “Deltarasin.” This inhibitor binds to the prenyl‐binding pocket of PDEδ and subsequently inhibits the proliferation of human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells that depend on oncogenic KRas4B. Nevertheless, structural and energetic information about the inhibitory effects of Deltarasin on the KRas4B‐PDEδ complex are not available. In this study, we explore the properties of Deltarasin in inhibiting the formation of wild‐type and mutant KRas4B‐PDEδ complexes present in different cell lines expressing mutant RAS genes (G12D, G12C, G12V, G13D, Q61L, and Q61R) using 1.7 μs molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in combination with the MMGBSA approach. Our results revealed the energetic and structural mechanisms that suggest a higher affinity of Deltarasin for PDEδ than the farnesylated HVR. Moreover, Deltarasin exerts another dissociative effect by binding to the protein‐protein dimeric interface of wild‐type KRas4B‐PDEδ, whereas associative and dissociative effects were observed for mutant KRas4B‐PDEδ, providing a mechanistic explanation for the inhibitory effects of Deltarasin on different cancer cell lines.
The effects of different fatigue levels on brain–behavior relationships in driving
Authors: Huang Kuan‐Chih , Chuang Chun‐Hsiang , Wang Yu‐kai , Hsieh Chi‐Yuan , King Jung‐Tai , Lin Chin‐Teng
Published: October 2019

Background

In the past decade, fatigue has been regarded as one of the main factors impairing task performance and increasing behavioral lapses during driving, even leading to fatal car crashes. Although previous studies have explored the impact of acute fatigue through electroencephalography (EEG) signals, it is still unclear how different fatigue levels affect brain–behavior relationships.

Methods

A longitudinal study was performed to investigate the brain dynamics and behavioral changes in individuals under different fatigue levels by a sustained attention task. This study used questionnaires in combination with actigraphy, a noninvasive means of monitoring human physiological activity cycles, to conduct longitudinal assessment and tracking of the objective and subjective fatigue levels of recruited participants. In this study, degrees of effectiveness score (fatigue rating) are divided into three levels (normal, reduced, and high risk) by the SAFTE fatigue model.

Results

Results showed that those objective and subjective indicators were negatively correlated to behavioral performance. In addition, increased response times were accompanied by increased alpha and theta power in most brain regions, especially the posterior regions. In particular, the theta and alpha power dramatically increased in the high‐fatigue (high‐risk) group. Additionally, the alpha power of the occipital regions showed an inverted U‐shaped change.

Conclusion

Our results help to explain the inconsistent findings among existing studies, which considered the effects of only acute fatigue on driving performance while ignoring different levels of resident fatigue, and potentially lead to practical and precise biomathematical models to better predict the performance of human operators.
Interdependence between dorsal and ventral hippocampus during spatial navigation
Authors: Lee Shang Lin (Tommy) , Lew Dana , Wickenheisser Victoria , Markus Etan J.
Published: October 2019

Introduction

The hippocampus is linked to the formation and retrieval of episodic memories and spatial navigation. In rats, it is an elongated structure divided into dorsal (septal) and ventral (temporal) regions paralleling the respective division in the posterior and anterior hippocampus in humans. The dorsal hippocampus has been suggested to be more important for spatial processing and the ventral to processing anxiety‐based behaviors. Far less is known regarding the degree to which these different regions interact during information processing. The anatomical connectivity suggests a flow of information between the dorsal and ventral regions; conversely, there are also commissural connections to the contralateral hippocampus. The current study examined the extent to which information from the dorsal hippocampus interacts with processing in the ipsilateral and contralateral ventral hippocampus following the acquisition of a spatial task.

Methods

Rats were well‐trained on a spatial reference version of the water maze, followed by muscimol inactivation of different hippocampal subregions in a within‐animal repeated design. Various combinations of bilateral, ipsilateral, and contralateral infusions were used.

Results

Combined dorsal and ventral inactivation produced a severe impairment in spatial performance. Inactivation of only the dorsal or ventral regions resulted in intermediate impairment with performance levels falling between controls and combined inactivation. Performance was impaired during contralateral inactivation and was almost equivalent to bilateral dorsal and ventral hippocampus inactivation, while ipsilateral inactivation resulted in little impairment.

Conclusions

Taken together, results indicate that for spatial processing, the hippocampus functions as a single integrated structure along the longitudinal axis.
Central network changes in patients with advanced monocular blindness: A voxel‐based morphometric study
Authors: Shi Wen‐Qing , He Yin , Li Qing‐Hai , Tang Li‐Ying , Li Biao , Lin Qi , Min You‐Lan , Yuan Qing , Zhu Pei‐Wen , Liang Rong‐Bing , Shao Yi
Published: October 2019

Objective

To study the changes in gray matter volume (GMV) in patients with advanced monocular blindness (MB) using voxel‐based morphometry (VBM).

Methods

Thirty‐one patients with advanced MB (25 males and six females) and 31 normal controls (25 males and six females) were enrolled. The t test was applied to determine the differences in GMV, white matter volume (WMV), and volume of cerebrospinal fluid in different regions of the brain. The local characteristics of spontaneous concentrations of brain tissue were evaluated by the VBM method. The effects of blindness duration on differences in the GMV were evaluated by correlation and regression analyses.

Results

Compared with the control group, the GMV was decreased in the upper right margin, bilateral insular cortex, right cingulate gyrus, left occipital gyrus, and right suboccipital lobe, and negatively correlated with blindness duration in the upper right posterior margin, bilateral insular cortex, and right cingulate cortex.

Conclusions

We found that patients with MB showed abnormal WMV and GMV, as evidenced by local changes in the brain. In addition, reduced GMV in specific parts of the brain was associated with the duration of blindness, which may indicate neuropathological mechanisms of visual loss in patients with MB.
Clinical anatomy of the anterior and posterior hepatic plexuses, including relations with the pancreatic plexus: A cadaver study
Authors: Ren Ke , Yi Shuang‐Qin , Dai Yidan , Kurosawa Kazuhiro , Miwa Yoko , Sato Iwao
Published: October 2019

The poor prognosis after surgery for pancreatic cancer or extrahepatic bile duct cancer has mainly been attributed to early lymph node metastasis, as well as a high frequency of perineural invasion along the peripancreatic neural plexuses or extrahepatic bile duct plexus. However, there has been no detailed morphological description of the anterior and posterior hepatic plexuses (AHP and PHP). In addition, the concepts of the pancreatic plexus and PHP are confused by surgeons. To assess the relations of the pancreatic plexus and hepatic plexuses from the morphological, developmental, and clinical perspectives, these plexuses were dissected in 24 cadavers. The PHP was found to be completely independent of the AHP. The PHP ran behind the portal vein, with most nerve fibers ascending along the bile duct to the gallbladder and the liver or descending to the distal common bile duct and duodenal papilla. Some branches of the PHP contributed to the pancreatic plexus, corresponding to pancreatic head plexus I as defined by the Japan Pancreas Society. The differences between the PHP and pancreatic head plexus I should be understood, even though liver function is not obviously affected after PHP excision for pancreatic head cancer. Further study is needed to determine whether there are functional differences between the AHP and PHP. Clin. Anat., 33:630–636, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Long Abductor Digiti Minimi Muscle: Variation of the Hypothenar Muscles and Clinical Consequences
Authors: May Christian Albrecht
Published: October 2019

Variations in the hypothenar muscles influence the susceptibility of Guyon's canal and surgical procedures in this region. The hypothenar regions of both hands of 38 human donors were dissected and the single muscles identified. A semiquantitative evaluation included 19 donors. The opponens digiti minimi and the abductor digiti minimi were constantly present. The flexor digiti minimi showed various appearances: in 58% it formed one belly, in 21% two bellies, and in 21% it was missing. Rare unilateral supernumerary muscles (2.5% in this study) were associated to the abductor digiti minimi. The variation of the flexor digiti minimi and the possible appearance of additional muscles should be recognized for hypothenar region pathologies. Clin. Anat., 33:643–645, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Whey protein isolate supplementation improves body composition, muscle strength, and treatment tolerance in malnourished advanced cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy
Authors: Cereda Emanuele , Turri Annalisa , Klersy Catherine , Cappello Silvia , Ferrari Alessandra , Filippi Andrea Riccardo , Brugnatelli Silvia , Caraccia Marilisa , Chiellino Silvia , Borioli Valeria , Monaco Teresa , Stella Giulia Maria , Arcaini Luca , Benazzo Marco , Grugnetti Giuseppina , Pedrazzoli Paolo , Caccialanza Riccardo
Published: October 2019

In recent years, whey proteins (WP) have attracted increasing attention in health and disease for their bioactive functions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefit of WP isolate (WPI) supplementation in addition to nutritional counseling in malnourished advanced cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy (CT). In a single‐center, randomized, pragmatic, and parallel‐group controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02065726), 166 malnourished advanced cancer patients with mixed tumor entities candidate to or undergoing CT were randomly assigned to receive nutritional counseling with (N = 82) or without (N = 84) WPI supplementation (20 g/d) for 3 months. The primary endpoint was the change in phase angle (PhA). Secondary endpoints included changes in standardized PhA (SPA), fat‐free mass index (FFMI), body weight, muscle strength, and CT toxicity (CTCAE 4.0 events). In patients with the primary endpoint assessed (modified intention‐to‐treat population), counseling plus WPI (N = 66) resulted in improved PhA compared to nutritional counseling alone (N = 69): mean difference, 0.48° (95% CI, 0.05 to 0.90) (P = .027). WPI supplementation also resulted in improved SPA (P = .021), FFMI (P = .041), body weight (P = .023), muscle strength (P < .001), and in a reduced risk of CT toxicity (risk difference, −9.8% [95% CI, −16.9 to −2.6]; P = .009), particularly of severe (grade ≥ 3) events (risk difference, −30.4% [95% CI, −44.4 to −16.5]; P = .001). In malnourished advanced cancer patients undergoing CT, receiving nutritional counseling, a 3‐month supplementation with WPI resulted in improved body composition, muscle strength, body weight, and reduced CT toxicity. Further trials, aimed at verifying the efficacy of this nutritional intervention on mid‐ and long‐term primary clinical endpoints in newly diagnosed specific cancer types, are warranted.
The implication of lncRNA expression pattern and potential function of lncRNA RP4‐576H24.2 in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Zheng Jifu , Song Yuan , Li Zhenjiang , Tang Aiping , Fei Yan , He Wenfeng
Published: October 2019

Background

Recent studies have revealed that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) may hold crucial triggers of the pathogenesis of hematological malignancies, while the studies evaluating the expression pattern of lncRNA in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are few. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the implication of lncRNA expression pattern in AML development and progression.

Methods

Bone marrow samples from four AML patients and four controls were subjected to lncRNA sequencing. Then, bone marrow samples from 110 AML patients and 40 controls were proposed to real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) validation for 10 candidate lncRNAs. Clinical data and survival profiles were recorded in AML patients. Furthermore, lncRNA RP4‐576H24.2 expression in AML cell lines and its effect on AML cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected.

Results

LncRNA expression pattern by sequencing clearly distinguished AML patients from controls, and 630 upregulated and 621 downregulated lncRNAs were identified in AML patients compared to controls, which were mainly enriched in AML oncogene‐related biological process and pathways (such as neutrophil degranulation, leukocyte transendothelial migration, and hematopoietic cell lineage). RT‐qPCR validation observed that six lncRNAs correlated with AML risk, one lncRNA associated with risk stratification, and three lncRNAs correlated with survivals, among which lncRNA RP4‐576H24.2 was the only one correlated with AML susceptibility, risk stratification, and survivals. Further in vitro experiments showed that lncRNA RP4‐576H24.2 was upregulated in AML cell lines compared to normal bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs), and promoted proliferation while inhibited apoptosis in HL‐60 and KG‐1 cells.

Conclusions

LncRNA expression pattern is closely involved in the development and progression of AML, and several specific lncRNAs exhibit potential to be biomarkers for AML risk and prognosis. Besides, lncRNA RP4‐576H24.2 might be a potential oncogene in AML pathogenesis.
Detection of early stage ovarian cancer in a large community cohort
Authors: Suh‐Burgmann Elizabeth J. , Alavi Mubarika
Published: October 2019

Background

Although detecting ovarian cancer at early stage is a highly meaningful clinical goal, no studies have evaluated early stage disease presentation in a large community‐based population and how it differs from that of late stage disease.

Methods

Electronic medical records were evaluated for women diagnosed with ovarian or fallopian tube cancer in 2016 and 2017 to identify the first imaging study to detect disease. Women being followed prior to diagnosis for known genetic risk from BRCA or other mutation were excluded. The visit in which the imaging test was ordered and related encounters were reviewed to determine the indication for imaging. Patient characteristics, presenting symptoms and duration, and modality of first abnormal imaging were compared for early vs late stage ovarian cancer and by provider specialty.

Results

Of 540 women with ovarian cancer, 190 (35%) were diagnosed with early stage disease, of whom 141 (74%) were symptomatic, with 45% of women presenting to internists, 33% to gynecologists, and 20% to emergency medicine physicians. Pelvic ultrasonography detected only 23% of late stage cases whereas pelvic ultrasonography and abdominal pelvic computed tomography (CT) each detected 47% of early stage cases. While abdominal pain and bloating were common to both women with early and late stage cancer, women with early stage disease were younger (58 vs 64 years, P < .0001), more likely to present to gynecologists (33% vs 15%, P < .001) and complained more often of a palpable mass (17% vs 6%, P < .0001) or postmenopausal bleeding (11% vs 5%, P < .001).

Conclusions

Excluding women with genetic predisposition to ovarian cancer known prior to diagnosis, approximately three out of four cases of early stage ovarian cancer are detected as the result of evaluation of symptoms and one in four cases are detected incidentally. Abdominal pelvic CT and pelvic ultrasonography each detect an equal proportion of early stage cases. In contrast to late stage presentation, women diagnosed with early stage disease present more often with complaints of a palpable mass or postmenopausal bleeding, particularly to gynecologists.
Caffeic Acid Alkyl Amide Derivatives Ameliorate Oxidative Stress and Modulate ERK1/2 and AKT Signaling Pathways in a Rat Model of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Fathalipour Mohammad , Eghtedari Masoomeh , Borges Fernanda , Silva Tiago , Moosavi Fatemeh , Firuzi Omidreza , Mirkhani Hossein
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine the neuroprotective effects of caffeic acid hexyl (CAF6) and dodecyl (CAF12) amide derivatives on the early stage of retinopathy in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats. Animals were divided in five groups (n=8/group); one group consisted of non‐diabetic rats as control, while the other four were diabetic animals either non‐treated or treated with CAF6, CAF12 or resveratrol intravitreally for four weeks. Retinal superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and 8‐iso‐prostaglandin F2α (iPF2α) levels were evaluated by an ELISA assay. Phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and AKT was determined by immunoblotting in retinal homogenates. Retinal morphology was also examined using light microscopy. Treatment with CAF6 and CAF12 increased retinal SOD activity, while it decreased iPF2α levels in diabetic rats. Phosphorylation of ERK1/2 was increased, while AKT phosphorylation was decreased in diabetic rats compared to normal control and these alterations were significantly reversed in diabetic rats treated with CAF6 and CAF12. Furthermore, thickness of the whole retinal layer, outer nuclear layer, and ganglion cell count were decreased in diabetic rats compared to control and CAF6 and CAF12 treatments prevented these changes. CAF6 and CAF12 seem to be effective agents for treatment of diabetic retinopathy via attenuation of retinal oxidative stress and improvement of neuronal survival signaling.
A parietal bone fracture with subgaleal and subdural hemorrhage in association with vacuum extraction delivery
Authors: Marchini Giovanna , Martín Muñoz Daniel , Vladic Stjernholm Ylva
Published: October 2019

Key Clinical Message

A neonatal parietal bone fracture was complicated by subgaleal and subdural hematomas after a vacuum extraction delivery. Low‐dose computer tomography visualized a comminuted skull fracture. Close observation of infants delivered by vacuum extraction, conservative management after a skull fracture, and further studies on vacuum traction monitoring are warranted.
Sporotrichoid‐like tuberculosis in a child: Unusual clinico‐dermoscopic aspect
Authors: Saadani Hassani Cheymae , Baybay Hanane , Ziani Jihan , Rimani Mouna , Mernissi Fatima Zahra
Published: October 2019

Tuberculosis‐ child ‐ Sporotrichoid ‐ clinical image ‐ dermoscopic image‐ correlation.
A congenital cystic pulmonary airway malformation occurring together with both an extralobar pulmonary sequestration and an esophageal duplication cyst
Authors: Dewberry Lindel C. , Trecartin Andrew , Galambos Csaba , Hilton Sarah A. , Dannull Kimberly , Zaretsky Michael V. , Behrendt Nicholas , Galan Henry L. , Marwan Ahmed I. , Liechty Kenneth W.
Published: October 2019

A foregut duplication cyst occurring together with both a congenital cystic pulmonary airway malformation and extralobar pulmonary sequestration is an unusual combination. Prenatal ultrasound, MRI, and postnatal CT are helpful for operative planning. Surgical resection is the definitive management for all three anomalies.
Unmasking of a large pheochromocytoma by pyelonephritis
Authors: Harsch Igor Alexander , Helfritzsch Herry
Published: October 2019

Pheochromocytoma is a rare reason for hypertension. At least in younger people, an endocrinological workup of the etiology of hypertension is mandatory, as this case describes. If the pheochromocytomas are large enough, they can not only lead to hypertension but also cause direct damage to surrounding organs.
Self‐Assembly and Antitumor Activity of a Polyoxovanadate‐Based Coordination Nanocage
Authors: Zheng Yan , Gan Hongmei , Zhao Yao , Li Wanling , Wu Yuchen , Yan Xuechun , Wang Yifan , Li Jinhua , Li Juan , Wang Xinlong
Published: October 2019

A new supramolecular nanocage, VMOP‐31, based on polyoxovanadate as the molecular building block, has been designed and synthesized under solvothermal conditions. The structure of VMOP‐31 was determined by single‐crystal and powder X‐ray diffraction, FTIR spectroscopy, UV/Vis spectrophotometry, and thermogravimetric analysis. The nanocage exhibits octahedral geometry and is constructed of six {V5O9Cl(COO)4} at the vertices and eight TATB (H3TATB=4,4′,4′′‐(s‐triazine‐2,4,6‐triyl)tribenzoic acid) ligands on the faces. Impressively, VMOP‐31 exhibited high efficiency in the inhibition of cell growth of solid tumors, such as human liver cancer cells SMMC‐7721, and superior results in the treatment of liver tumors in mice compared with classic cisplatin. Detailed studies revealed that the potential mechanism of cell death induced by VMOP‐31 involves cell cycle arrests, DNA damage, and subsequent apoptosis. Moreover, VMOP‐31 exhibited negligible side effects in the mice compared with cisplatin. To the best of our knowledge, VMOP‐31 is the first supramolecular nanocage applied to hepatic tumors both in vitro and in vivo.
The Hydrolysis of the Anhydride of 2‐Cyano‐2‐phenylpropanoic Acid Triggers the Repeated Back and Forth Motions of an Acid–Base Operated Molecular Switch
Authors: Biagini Chiara , Capocasa Giorgio , Cataldi Valerio , Del Giudice Daniele , Mandolini Luigi , Di Stefano Stefano
Published: October 2019

This work aimed to render phenomenologically autonomous the otherwise stepwise operation of a catenane‐based molecular switch, which is chemically triggered by the decarboxylation of 2‐cyano‐2‐phenylpropanoic acid (2). Given that any amount of 2 in stoichiometric excess with respect to the catenane is consumed in a side reaction, the authors resorted to the corresponding anhydride 5, the slow hydrolysis of which, due to adventitious water in dichloromethane, continuously produces in situ the actual fuel 2. As a consequence, the machine does not require a reloading after each cycle, but switches back and forth as long as fuel is present.
A Novel Mechanism of Preferential Enrichment Phenomenon Observed for the Cocrystal of (RS)‐2‐{4‐[(4‐Chlorophenoxy)methyl]phenoxy}propionic Acid and Isonicotinamide
Authors: Takahashi Hiroki , Numao Yuki , Motokawa Junko , Clevers Simon , Coquerel Gérard , Tsue Hirohito , Tamura Rui
Published: October 2019

A new entry of chiral anti‐hyperlipoproteinemia drug is reported, showing an excellent preferential enrichment (PE) phenomenon which is not caused by a polymorphic transition during crystallization, but is proposed to occur by a novel mechanism involving partially irregular stacking of R and S homochiral two‐dimensional (2D) sheets with a large dipole moment, followed by selective redissolution of one homochiral 2D sheet into the mother liquor during crystallization. The cocrystal composed of (RS)‐2‐{4‐[(4‐chlorophenoxy)methyl]phenoxy}propionic acid (CPPPA) and achiral isonicotinamide exhibited a substantial enrichment in the mother liquor up to 93 % ee by simply repeating recrystallization under nonequilibrium conditions using high supersaturation. Furthermore, the deposited crystals with low ee values obtained at the end of PE experiment were second harmonic generation (SHG)‐positive, indicating the formation of homochiral domains in the deposited crystals, which reflects the proposed mechanism of PE.
Iron‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Alkynyl and Styrenyl Chlorides with Alkyl Grignard Reagents in Batch and Flow
Authors: Deng Yuchao , Wei Xiao‐Jing , Wang Xiao , Sun Yuhan , Noël Timothy
Published: October 2019

Transition‐metal‐catalyzed cross‐coupling chemistry can be regarded as one of the most powerful protocols to construct carbon–carbon bonds. While the field is still dominated by palladium catalysis, there is an increasing interest to develop protocols that utilize cheaper and more sustainable metal sources. Herein, we report a selective, practical, and fast iron‐based cross‐coupling reaction that enables the formation of Csp−Csp3 and Csp2−Csp3 bonds. In a telescoped flow process, the reaction can be combined with the Grignard reagent synthesis. Moreover, flow allows the use of a supporting ligand to be avoided without eroding the reaction selectivity.
Tandem crystallization strategies for resolution of 3,3,3‐trifluorolactic acid [CF3CH(OH)COOH] by chiral benzylamines
Authors: Wong Lawrence W.‐Y. , Vashchenko Elena V. , Zhao Ying , Sung Herman H.‐Y. , Vashchenko Valerii V. , Mikhailenko Vadim , Krivoshey Alexander I. , Williams Ian D.
Published: October 2019

Resolution of rac‐3,3,3‐trifluorolactic acid by diastereomeric salt formation was reinvestigated. The use of (S)‐1‐phenylethylamine gives coprecipitation of two diastereomeric phases, 1 (S)‐[NH3CH(CH3)Ph](S)‐[CF3CH(OH)COO] and 2 (S)‐[NH3CH(CH3)Ph](R)‐[CF3CH(OH)COO]·H2O. Pure phase 1 may be obtained using molecular sieves as desiccants. Resolution by (S,S)‐2‐amino‐1‐phenylpropan‐1,3‐diol gives monoclinic (S,S)‐[NH3CH(CH2OH)CHOHPh] (R)‐[CF3CH(OH)‐COO] 3 with minor (S)‐3,3,3‐trifluorolactate contamination, which is precluded in the recrystallized orthorhombic form 4. A new resolution using inexpensive phenylglycinol gives pure phase 5 (S)‐[NH3CH(CH2OH)Ph] (S)‐[CF3CH(OH)COO] in 76% yield, 94% ee in a single step, in preference to its (S)‐(R) diastereomer 6. Overall efficient resolution for both enantiomers of the trifluorolactic acid (each ca. 70% yield, 99% ee) may be achieved by various two‐step “tandem” crystallizations, involving direct addition of either water or a second base to the filtrate from the initial reaction.
New AMP/polyamine blends for improved CO2 capture: Study of kinetic and equilibrium features
Authors: Patil Mayurkumar P. , Vaidya Prakash D.
Published: October 2019

2‐Amino‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanol (AMP), which is the sterically hindered form of monoethanolamine (MEA), is a credible substitute to conventional CO2‐capturing solvents. Its performance can be improved by blending with a highly reactive polyamine promoter. Two such aqueous blends of AMP/TETA and AMP/TEPA were chosen here (TETA = triethylenetetramine and TEPA = tetraethylenepentamine). The kinetics of CO2 absorption in the proposed blends was investigated at 308, 313, and 318 K using the stirred cell technique. The concentrations of AMP and polyamine were varied between 2 to 3 kmol/m3 and 0.1 to 0.5 kmol/m3, respectively. From the measured values of the fast pseudo‐first order constants, the second‐order rate constants for the reactions of CO2 with TETA (14 695 m3/(kmol s)) and TEPA (19 250 m3/(kmol s)) were determined at T = 313 K. Both TETA and TEPA react faster with CO2 than MEA. Further, the respective activation energy values were found (40 and 37 kJ/mol). Finally, the equilibrium solubility of CO2 for both blends was measured at T = 303 K. The loading capacity was higher than that for the aqueous blends of AMP/MEA, AMP/DEA, and AMP/MDEA (here, DEA and MDEA denote diethanolamine and N‐methyldiethanolamine). The highest value of loading capacity (1.12 mol CO2/mol amine at 2.01 kPa equilibrium partial pressure of CO2) was noted in AMP/TEPA mixtures. The new findings on our proposed blends will strengthen the AMP/polyamine application in CO2 separation.
Conical filtering centrifuge for separation of solvent‐diluted bitumen from oil sand mineral particles
Authors: Khammar Merouane
Published: October 2019

The development of a continuous process for the separation of solvent‐diluted bitumen from mineral particles is an important step for the development of solvent‐based extraction technology of bitumen from mined oil sands. In this work, a custom‐made conical filtering centrifuge is used to separate toluene‐diluted bitumen from oil sand mineral particles. Compositions of wet granular samples are analyzed before and after centrifugation for three different oil sand ores. Results suggest that conical filtering centrifuges could be used for continuous separation of solvent‐diluted bitumen from oil sand ores with relatively coarse particles.
Quality and Possibilities of Use of Stabilized Sludge Compost Obtained by Inoculation with Geocell‐1 Consortium
Authors: Gligor Gellért , Szolnoky Tamás , Drašković Milana , Đurić Nenad , Hojka Zdravko , Bošković Jelena , Žuža Milena
Published: October 2019

Anaerobically stabilized sludge from wastewater treatment is always a challenge from the environmental aspect of management. The agrarian environmental surroundings present a possibility for swift and efficient utilization of compost from anaerobically stabilized sludge in order to increase the quality of the biological product. With intensification of the composting procedure by means of the microbiological consortium Geocell‐1 (Cellvibrio sp., Pseudomonas fluorescens with the addition of micro‐ and macro‐elements), the results show that the compost obtained from stabilized sludge after inoculation is significantly improved in terms of moisture reduction (39–43%), while in the control compost, this value is significantly higher with 61%. The results of the pathogenic effect show a significant reduction in the number of fecal coliform (<1 × 103) and Enterococcus bacteria (<1 × 104) in the inoculated (treated) compost. With a slight decrease in the concentration of limiting factors such as As, Cd, Cu, a quality biological product can be achieved, which can be safely deposited on soil. The phytotoxicological germination test with white mustard (Sinapis alba) shows a higher number of sprouting plants with a mixture of treated compost and standard soil for flowers 1:1 and 1:4 compared to the control group.
Erlangen—An Important Center of Crystal Growth and Epitaxy: Major Scientific Results and Technological Solutions of the Last Four Decades
Authors: Friedrich Jochen , Müller Georg
Published: October 2019

This article describes the historic development of the Erlangen Crystal Growth Laboratory CGL from its beginnings in 1974 at the chair of Materials of Electrical Engineering (Department of Material Science) of the University of Erlangen–Nuremberg until its current status as a large department “Materials” of the Erlangen Fraunhofer‐Institute for Integrated Systems and Device Technology. Essential developments and scientific achievements in the various fields of crystal growth and epitaxy are presented from the early period until today.
On being nice and effective: Work‐related emotional intelligence and its role in conflict resolution and interpersonal problem‐solving
Authors: Krishnakumar Sukumarakurup , Perera Buddhika , Hopkins Kay , Robinson Michael D.
Published: October 2019

People are thought to differ in their abilities to perceive, understand, and manage emotions, a construct termed emotional intelligence (EI). North Dakota emotional abilities test (NEAT), a test of EI based on the situation judgment test method, assesses EI applied to work settings. Three survey‐based studies examined and found that NEAT scores correlated positively with constructive motivations and behavioral intentions (Study 1; n = 94), conflict handling strategies favoring mutual interests (Study 2; n = 92), and helpful workplace behaviors, particularly under stressful conditions (Study 3; n = 90). These findings could possess particular value in domains such as conflict resolution and mediation.