bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted delivery of tacrolimus to T cells by pH‐responsive aptamer‐chitosan‐ poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) nanocomplex
Authors: Mansouri Atena , Abnous Khalil , Alibolandi Mona , Taghdisi Seyed Mohammad , Ramezani Mohammad
Published: March 2019

Tacrolimus (TAC) acts as an inhibitor of calcineurin, which inhibits the production of interleukin‐2. In this study, we aimed to design a targeted delivery platform with poly (lactide‐co‐glycolide; PLGA) nanoparticles modified with chitosan (CS) and CD8AP17s aptamer (Apt). MOLT‐4 cells as CD8 positive and JURKAT cells as CD negative were adopted to investigate the efficacy of the proposed delivery system in vitro. The particle size and Ζ potential of the TAC‐PLGA‐CS‐Apt nanocomplex were 345 nm and 13.7 mV, respectively. Release study showed an efficient TAC release from complex in citrate buffer (pH 5.5). The 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay showed that TAC‐PLGA‐CS‐Apt nanocomplex was highly selective toward MOLT‐4 cells. Complex increased the cellular uptake of TAC in MOLT‐4 cells (target) while reducing its cytotoxicity in JURKAT cells (nontarget). Our study showed that complex nanoconjugate could efficiently deliver TAC into MOLT‐4 cells as a model of cytotoxic T cell and it could be considered as a potential candidate for TAC delivery.
LncRNA‐MEG3 promotes bovine myoblast differentiation by sponging miR‐135
Authors: Liu Mei , Li Bo , Peng Wenwen , Ma Yilei , Huang Yongzhen , Lan Xianyong , Lei Chuzhao , Qi Xinglei , Liu George E. , Chen Hong
Published: March 2019

Long noncoding RNA maternally expressed gene 3 (lncRNA‐MEG3) is an important regulator in multiple biological functions. However,
lncRNA‐MEG3's function in cattle growth and regulatory mechanism on bovine skeletal muscle development has not yet been well studied. In this project, we first investigated
lncRNA‐MEG3's expression profile and detected that it was highly expressed in bovine skeletal muscle tissue and its RNA level was kept increasingly during the early phase of bovine primary myoblast differentiation. Using luciferase reporter assays, we identified the
lncRNA‐MEG3 core promoter containing putative transcription factor binding site for myocyte enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C). Interestingly, we found that
LncRNA‐MEG3 could significantly upregulate and downregulate myosin heavy chain (
MHC), myogenin (
MyoG), and
MEF2C through overexpression and RNAi strategies, respectively. Using luciferase reporter assays, we also verified
lncRNA‐MEG3 as a miR‐135 sponge. Overexpression of miR‐135 markedly inhibited the wild type of
lncRNA‐MEG3, but not the mutant
lncRNA‐MEG3 reporter. The luciferase activity of miR‐135 sensor could be rescued by
lncRNA‐MEG3 via competing for miRNA‐135. In addition, the luciferase activity of
MEF2C was significantly upregulated by the wild type of
lncRNA‐MEG3. This study, for the first time, revealed that
lncRNA‐MEG3 could promote bovine skeletal muscle differentiation via interacting with miRNA‐135 and
MEF2C. The results were valuable for further studies and applications of lncRNA related roles in beef molecular breeding.
Velocity vector imaging echocardiography and NT‐proBNP study of fetal cardiac function in pregnancy‐induced maternal hypertension
Authors: Yu Li , Zhou Qichang , Peng Qinghai , Zeng Shi , Yang Zurong
Published: March 2019

Purpose

To investigate whether acute and transient pressure overload in patients with pregnancy‐induced hypertension affects cardiac function in fetuses.

Methods

We enrolled 104 singleton pregnant women with gestational ages ranging 30 to 33 weeks, visiting for prenatal care. Among them, 34 had gestational hypertension (GH), 32 had preeclampsia (PE), and 38 were healthy and formed the control group. Conventional echocardiographic and velocity vector imaging (VVI) variables were prospectively collected. Blood levels of N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) were measured from cord blood drawn at birth.

Results

The fetuses of mothers with preeclampsia had significantly lower left (LV) and right ventricle (RV) diastolic strain rate (SRd) and RV strain (S) and systolic strain rate (SRs) than controls. LV and RV S, SRd, and SRS were not different in fetuses of mothers with GH and controls. The NT‐proBNP levels were higher in fetuses of patients with PE than in GH and controls.

Conclusions

In the third trimester of pregnancy, fetal biventricular function and NT‐proBNP levels are not significantly influenced by GH. Fetuses of mothers with PE present signs of LV and RV diastolic dysfunction, right ventricular systolic dysfunction, and elevated NT‐pro‐BNP levels. VVI echocardiography appears more sensitive than conventional echocardiography to evaluate fetal cardiac function.
MRI of acute appendicitis
Authors: Mervak Benjamin M. , Wilson Sarah B. , Handly Brian D. , Altun Ersan , Burke Lauren M.
Published: March 2019

Appendicitis is the most common cause of acute abdominal pain resulting in surgery. While historically ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) have been used to evaluate for appendicitis and its related complications, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become a highly accurate and increasingly utilized modality in the last two decades, particularly in the pediatric and pregnant patient populations in whom ionizing radiation is used reluctantly. This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of MRI as a modality to evaluate for acute appendicitis, summarizes studies of the diagnostic performance relative to CT and US, provides a standard MR protocol, and describes MRI findings typical of acute appendicitis, common complications, and other differential diagnoses.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1367–1376.
Theoretical chemical ionization rate constants of the concurrent reactions of hydronium ions (H3O+) and oxygen ions (O) with selected organic iodides
Authors: Strekowski Rafal  S. , Alvarez Coralie , Petrov‐Stojanović Jeanne , Hagebaum‐Reignier Denis , Wortham Henri
Published: March 2019

Short chain volatile iodinated organic compounds (VIOCs) are of great importance in many fields that include atmospheric chemistry, agriculture, and environmental chemistry related to nuclear power plant safety. Proton‐transfer‐reaction mass spectrometry (PTR‐MS) allows for fast, sensitive, and online quantification of VIOCs if the chemical ionization (CI) reaction rate coefficients are known. In this work, the theoretical CI rate coefficients for the reactions of hydronium ions (H3O+) and oxygen ions (O
) with selected atmospherically important short chain VIOCs are determined. The neutral CH3I, CH2I2, C2H5I, iso‐C3H7I, n‐C3H7I, n‐C4H9I, 2‐C4H9I, n‐C5H11I, 2‐C5H11I, and 3‐C5H11I have been chosen because these compounds are of atmospheric and environmental importance in the field of safety of nuclear plant reactors. Theoretical ion‐molecule collision rate coefficients were determined using the Su and Chesnavich theory based on parametrized trajectory calculations. The proton affinity, ionization energy, dipole moment, and polarizability values of the neutral molecules were determined from density functional theory and coupled‐cluster calculations. The newly calculated rate constants facilitate the use of the CI mass spectrometry in the atmospheric quantification of selected VIOCs.
Asymptomatic hepatitis B carriers who were vaccinated at birth
Authors: Wang Xueyan , Chen Qinyan , Li Hai , Wang Chao , Hu Liping , Yang Qingli , Ren Chuangchuang , Liu Huabing , Zheng Zhigang , Harrison Tim J. , Fang Zhong‐Liao
Published: March 2019

The long‐term persistence of immunity following universal infant immunization against hepatitis B virus (HBV) and the need for a subsequent booster dose in adolescence remain under debate. With data derived from Long'an County, Guangxi, China, we reported previously that the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among adults born from 1987 to 1993 increases with age, although these individuals had received a first dose of the vaccine within 24 hours of birth. Here, we sought the source of transmission by comparison of genotypes among their family members using phylogenetic analysis of complete HBV S gene sequences. For comparison, we screened 2199 vaccinated individuals aged 5 to 17 in Cang Wu County and 1592 vaccinated individuals aged 3 to 7 in Ling Shan County in Guangxi for HBsAg carriers and investigate their family members. In total, 50 asymptomatic HBsAg carriers who were vaccinated at birth and 152 family members were analyzed. The results showed that 25% (95% CI: 6.0‐44.0) of the HBsAg‐positive children had not acquired their HBV infection from their mothers. This phenomenon showed a trend that increases with age. Antibody escape mutations were detected in 22.9% (95% CI: 11.0‐34.8) of the isolates. In conclusion, a booster dose may be necessary for adolescence who were vaccinated at birth in highly endemic countries.
Temporary deembedding buyer – supplier relationships: A complexity perspective
Authors: Sting Fabian J. , Stevens Merieke , Tarakci Murat
Published: March 2019

Research on buyer–supplier relationships has debated the advantages and disadvantages of embedded relationships. We join this debate by developing theory on the performance implications of relaxing embedded buyer–supplier relationships for a limited period of time—a previously neglected phenomenon we refer to astemporary deembedding. To capture this phenomenon's dynamic and complex nature, we use a combined‐method approach. First, we conducted a longitudinal case study of the relationship between Nissan and a strategic first‐tier supplier. This case study suggests that temporary deembedding reinvigorates search and leads to higher performance for both the buyer and supplier. Second, we built a computational simulation model using the search perspective from complexity theory to complement the theory grounded in our case study. Our simulations confirm the case findings while shedding additional light on how frequency, duration, and intensity of deembedding affect supply chain performance.
Understanding and Prediction of the Clouding Phenomenon by Spontaneous and Effective Packing Concepts
Authors: Pleines Maximilian , Kunz Werner , Zemb Thomas
Published: March 2019

In this work, we show by which mechanism branching of the hydrocarbon chains influences the cloud point of nonionic, ethoxylated surfactants. The temperature‐induced separation into a dilute and a concentrated liquid phase is of liquid–gas type and can be explained by the relative probability of endcaps and branching points of the cylindrical micelles in both phases. The influence of branches on the hydrocarbon chains can be easily understood by means of spontaneous and effective packing concepts, while quantification via hydrophilic/lipophilic balance (HLB), hydrophilic‐lipophilic difference (HLD), and HLD‐Net Average Curvature requires parametrization. The phase equilibrium above the cloud point phenomenon is equivalent to the Winsor I type phase equilibrium, one of the five known phase equilibria in ternary systems.
Microflora of fresh white button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) during cold storage revealed by high‐throughput sequencing and MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry fingerprinting
Authors: Qiu Wanwei , Huang Ying , Zhao Chao , Lin Zhenshan , Lin Wenxing , Wang Zejin
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Fresh Agaricus bisporus is popular and consumed throughout the world because of its taste, as well as its nutritional and medicinal properties, but it is also prone to microbial growth. There is very limited information about the dynamic changes of microbial communities during storage. The present study aimed to analyze the microbial diversity of button mushroom during cold storage using Illumina HiSeq sequencing. Bacteria isolated from the later storage period were identified by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry and a bioassay of pathogenicity was carried out.

RESULTS

High‐throughput sequencing showed that Pseudomonas was the predominant genus throughout the storage period. Pedobacter and Flavobacterium grew prolifically on the eighth day, while the relative abundance of Oscillospira continued to decrease. Pseudomonas, Ewingella and Chryseobacterium were isolated at the later period of mushroom storage. A pathogenicity bioassay on the cap of mushrooms showing brown blotch indicated an infection by Pseudomonas tolaasii. However, Ewingella americana did not have a pathogenic effect in our study.

CONCLUSION

Bacterial communities of fresh Agaricus bisporus during cold storage were characterized by high‐throughput sequencing. MALDI‐TOF MS provides a good analytical procedure, in addition to 16S rRNA gene sequencing. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Multi‐analytical characterization of perigonadal fat in bluefin tuna: from waste to marine lipid source
Authors: Saliu Francesco , Magoni Chiara , Lasagni Marina , Della Pergola Roberto , Labra Massimo
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Marine lipids are widely recognized as supplements beneficial to health in the human diet. Bluefin tuna, as most migrating fish, may have high and variable marine lipid contents in their tissues. The viscera of the specimens caught in the Mediterranean Sea are generally discarded. Only ovaries are (locally) used for artisanal seafood preparations.

RESULTS

A multi‐analytical approach carried out using infrared (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS) revealed that the perigonadal fats usually discarded during bluefin tuna evisceration are characterized by a high relative abundance of polyunsaturated triacylglycerols (76.2% of dry mass), with docosahexaenoic (DHA, 22:6) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA, 20:5) acids preferentially located at the sn‐2 position of the glycerol backbone. By contrast, in fats from the ovarian tissues, no wax esters and phospholipids were evidenced. Cholesterol was found in very low amounts (84 mg/100 g ovarian tissue). In vitro assays showed that this fatty material is rapidly hydrolyzed by lipase and is prone to auto‐oxidation, especially if compared to the stable wax esters contained in the ovary.

CONCLUSION

The results show that the perigonadal fats of bluefin tuna, traditionally wasted after evisceration, may be an interesting source for the preparation of marine lipid supplements that do not require complex fractionation processes. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Does sentinel lymph node status have prognostic significance in patients with acral lentiginous melanoma?
Authors: Pavri Sabrina N. , Han Gang , Khan Sajid , Han Dale
Published: March 2019

Background

The prognostic benefit of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) and factors predictive of survival specifically in patients with acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) are unknown.

Methods

The SEER database was queried for ALM cases that underwent SLNB from 1998 to 2013. Clinicopathological factors were correlated with SLN status, overall survival (OS), and melanoma‐specific survival (MSS).

Results

Median age for the 753 ALM study patients was 65 years, and 48.2% were male. Median thickness was 2 mm with 38.1% of cases having ulceration. SLN metastases were detected in 194 of 753 cases (25.7%). Multivariable analysis showed that thickness, Clark level IV‐V, and ulceration significantly predicted for SLN metastasis (P < 0.05). For patients with positive SLN, 5‐year OS and MSS were significantly worse at 48.1% and 58.9%, respectively, compared with 78.7% and 88.5%, respectively, for patients with negative SLN (P < 0.0001). On multivariable analyses, older age, male gender, increasing thickness, ulceration, and a positive SLN significantly predicted for worse OS and MSS (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study confirms the important role of SLNB in ALM. SLN metastases are seen in 25.7% of ALM cases, providing significant prognostic information. In addition, thickness, ulceration status, and SLNB status significantly predict survival in patients with ALM.
Serum levels of chromogranins and secretogranins correlate with the progress and severity of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Xu Dong‐Juan , Wei Lian‐Yan , Li Hong‐Fei , Zhang Wei‐Qiang
Published: March 2019

Little is known about the relevance of chromogranins (Cgs) and secretogranins (Sgs) in Parkinson's disease (PD). In this study, we determined serum levels of CgA, CgB, and SgII in PD patients and assessed their association with disease severity. PD patients were recruited, identified, and classified as having early (n = 14), intermediate (n = 18), or late (n = 4) stage disease according to Hoehn‐Yahr scores. The serum concentrations of CgA, CgB, and SgII in patients with well‐defined PD (n = 36) and in healthy controls (n = 52) were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Compared with controls, serum CgA levels were significantly elevated and serum SgII levels were significantly reduced in PD patients (both P < 0.05). There was no difference in serum CgB levels between the two groups. Both serum CgA and SgII levels changed progressively over time from early to intermediate to late stage (P < 0.05). Spearman correlation analysis revealed that serum CgA and SgII levels correlated with Hoehn‐Yahr and UPDRS scores (P < 0.001). These results indicate that changes in serum levels of CgA and SgII may be closely related to the severity of PD.
Investigation of surgical adhesives for vocal fold wound closure
Authors: Chen Lei Xi , Coulombe Maxence , Barthelat Francois , Rammal Almoaidbellah , Mongeau Luc , Kost Karen
Published: March 2019

Objectives

Surgical adhesives are increasingly used for vocal fold microsurgery to assist wound closure and reduce the risks of scar formation. Currently used vocal fold adhesives such as fibrin glue, however, have thus far not been found to promote wound closure or reduce scarring. The objectives of this study were to investigate the mechanical strength and the cytotoxicity of three commercially available adhesives (Glubran 2, GEM, Viareggio, Italy; BioGlue, CryoLife, Kennesaw, GA; and Tisseel, Baxter Healthcare, Deerfield, IL) for vocal fold wound closure.

Methods

Shear and tension tests were performed on 150 porcine larynges. The cytotoxicity of the adhesives to immortalized human vocal fold fibroblasts was investigated using neutral red uptake assays.

Results

The average shear adhesive strength for Tisseel, BioGlue, and Glubran 2 was 13.86 ± 5.03 kilopascal (kPa), 40.92 ± 17.94 kPa, and 68.79 ± 13.29 kPa, respectively. The tensile adhesive strength for Tisseel, BioGlue, and Glubran 2 was 10.70 ± 6.42 kPa, 34.27 ± 12.59 kPa, and 46.67 ± 12.13 kPa, respectively. The vocal fold cell viabilities in extracts of Tisseel, BioGlue, and Glubran 2 were 99.27%, 43.05%, and 1.79%, respectively.

Conclusion

There was a clear tradeoff between adhesive strength and toxicity. The maximum failure strength in shear or tension of the three surgical adhesives ranked from strongest to the weakest was: 1) Glubran 2, 2) BioGlue, and 3) Tisseel. Tisseel was found to be the least toxic of the three adhesives, whereas Glubran 2 was the most toxic.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 129:2139–2146, 2019
The effect of melanin on in vivo optical coherence tomography of the skin in a multiethnic cohort
Authors: Ekelem Chloe , Yu Junxiao , Heydarlou Dorsa , Heidari Emon , Csuka Ella , Chen Zhongping , Mesinkovska Natasha Atanaskova
Published: March 2019

Background

Noninvasive real‐time assessment of living tissue is quickly becoming invaluable for bolstering histologic and dermatoscopic measures of cutaneous conditions. While many skin researchers have explored the utility of noninvasive imaging in inflammatory and malignant skin conditions, there is yet to be a definitive and direct assessment of the effects of melanin on the quality of optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging and its accuracy in multiethnic patient populations. We conducted a study to evaluate the effects of melanin on the quality of in vivo OCT imaging.

Methods

Volunteers of all Fitzpatrick skin types were imaged once in five skin regions. Images were analyzed for quality, defined quantitatively as depreciation of light as it passes through the depth of skin, and qualitatively as depth and contrast ranked by blinded clinicians.

Results

Our analysis of sixteen subjects shows that there is a significant difference in quantitative OCT image quality between light (Fitzpatrick I–III) and dark (IV–VI) skin types for both epidermal (p 0.0328) and dermal levels (p 0.0021). However, there was no significant difference in qualitative blinded rater measures of image clarity (p 0.11) or perceived depth (p 0.13).

Conclusion

Based on our definition of image quality, our study shows that OCT images taken from darker skin types have slightly lower quality than those taken from lighter skin. However, because blinded rater assessment showed no differences in clarity or perceived depth, we conclude that OCT may be used without hesitation for manual visualization of skin and its appendages in all Fitzpatrick skin types. Further studies are required to more extensively characterize the effects of melanin on OCT imaging. Lasers Surg. Med. 51:407–411, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
How to apply the movement disorder society criteria for diagnosis of progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Grimm Max‐Joseph , Respondek Gesine , Stamelou Maria , Arzberger Thomas , Ferguson Leslie , Gelpi Ellen , Giese Armin , Grossman Murray , Irwin David J. , Pantelyat Alexander , Rajput Alex , Roeber Sigrun , van Swieten John C. , Troakes Claire , Antonini Angelo , Bhatia Kailash P. , Colosimo Carlo , van Eimeren Thilo , Kassubek Jan , Levin Johannes , Meissner Wassilios G. , Nilsson Christer , Oertel Wolfgang H. , Piot Ines , Poewe Werner , Wenning Gregor K. , Boxer Adam , Golbe Lawrence I. , Josephs Keith A. , Litvan Irene , Morris Huw R. , Whitwell Jennifer L. , Compta Yaroslau , Corvol Jean‐Christophe , Lang Anthony E. , Rowe James B. , Höglinger Günter U. ,   for the Movement Disorder Society‐endorsed PSP Study Group
Published: March 2019

Background

The Movement Disorder Society criteria for progressive supranuclear palsy define diagnostic allocations, stratified by certainty levels and clinical predominance types. We aimed to study the frequency of ambiguous multiple allocations and to develop rules to eliminate them.

Methods

We retrospectively collected standardized clinical data by chart review in a multicenter cohort of autopsy‐confirmed patients with progressive supranuclear palsy, to classify them by diagnostic certainty level and predominance type and to identify multiple allocations.

Results

Comprehensive data were available from 195 patients. More than one diagnostic allocation occurred in 157 patients (80.5%). On average, 5.4 allocations were possible per patient. We developed four rules for Multiple Allocations eXtinction (MAX). They reduced the number of patients with multiple allocations to 22 (11.3%), and the allocations per patient to 1.1.

Conclusions

The proposed MAX rules help to standardize the application of the Movement Disorder Society criteria for progressive supranuclear palsy. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
On weak solution to the steady compressible flow of nematic liquid crystals
Authors: Xu Qiuju , Tan Zhong
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we study the three‐dimensional‐simplified Ericksen‐Leslie system for the steady compressible flow of nematic liquid crystals in a bounded domain. It is proved that the existence of a weak solution for the adiabatic exponentγ > 1 provided the initial direction field in the upper hemisphere.
Enabling free‐breathing background suppressed renal pCASL using fat imaging and retrospective motion correction
Authors: Bones Isabell K. , Harteveld Anita A. , Franklin Suzanne L. , van Osch Matthias J. P. , Hendrikse Jeroen , Moonen Chrit T. W. , Bos Clemens , van Stralen Marijn
Published: March 2019

Purpose

For free‐breathing renal perfusion imaging using arterial spin labeling (ASL), retrospective image realignment has been found essential to reduce subtraction artifacts and, independently, background suppression has been demonstrated to reduce physiologic noise. However, negative results on ASL precision and accuracy have been reported for the combination of both. In this study, the effect of background suppression ‐level in combination with image registration on free‐breathing renal ASL signal quality, with registration either on ASL‐images themselves or guided by additionally acquired fat‐images, was investigated. The results from free‐breathing acquisitions were compared with the reference paced‐breathing motion compensation strategy.

Methods

Pseudocontinuous ASL (pCASL) data with additional fat‐images were acquired from 10 subjects at 1.5T with varying background suppression levels during free‐breathing and paced‐breathing. Images were registered using the ASL‐images themselves (ASLReg) or using their corresponding fat‐images (FatReg). Temporal signal‐to‐noise ratio (tSNR) served to evaluate precision and perfusion weighted signal (PWS) to assess accuracy.

Results

In combination with image registration, background suppression significantly improved tSNR by 50% (P < .05). For heavy suppression, ASLReg and FatReg showed similar performance in terms of tSNR and PWS. Background suppression with two inversion pulses induced a small, nonsignificant (P > .05) PWS reduction, but increased PWS accuracy. When applying heavy background suppression, free‐breathing acquisitions resulted in similar ASL‐quality to paced‐breathing acquisitions.

Conclusion

Background suppression was found beneficial for free‐breathing renal pCASL precision without compromising accuracy, despite motion challenges. In combination with ASLReg or FatReg, background suppression enabled clinically viable free‐breathing renal pCASL.
IL‐8 and CXCR1 expression is associated with cancer stem cell‐like properties of clear cell renal cancer
Authors: Corrò Claudia , Healy Marc E , Engler Stefanie , Bodenmiller Bernd , Li Zhe , Schraml Peter , Weber Achim , Frew Ian J , Rechsteiner Markus , Moch Holger
Published: March 2019

Recent studies suggest that clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) possesses a rare population of cancer stem cells (CSCs) that might contribute to tumor heterogeneity, metastasis and therapeutic resistance. Nevertheless, their relevance for renal cancer is still unclear. In this study, we successfully isolated CSCs from established human ccRCC cell lines. CSCs displayed high expression of the chemokine IL‐8 and its receptor CXCR1. While recombinant IL‐8 significantly increased CSC number and properties in vitro, CXCR1 inhibition using an anti‐CXCR1 antibody or repertaxin significantly reduced these features. After injection into immune‐deficient mice, CSCs formed primary tumors that metastasized to the lung and liver. All xenografted tumors in mice expressed high levels of IL‐8 and CXCR1. Furthermore, IL‐8/CXCR1 expression significantly correlated with decreased overall survival in ccRCC patients. These results suggest that the IL‐8/CXCR1 phenotype is associated with CSC‐like properties in renal cancer. © 2019 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Feasibility of continuous temperature monitoring in pediatric immunocompromised patients: A pilot study
Authors: Sampson Megan , Hickey Victoria , Huber John , Alonso Priscila Badia , Davies Stella M. , Dandoy Christopher E.
Published: March 2019

Early recognition of fever is paramount in reducing morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. We performed a pilot study to determine the feasibility, safety, and tolerability of continuous temperature monitoring via TempTraq, a continuous temperature monitoring patch. Ten pediatric patients were enrolled and received continuous temperature monitoring over 5 days in addition to episodic monitor (standard of care). Episodic monitoring failed to detect fever in two patients and there was a significant delay (>12 h) of fever detection in two others that was detected with TempTraq. Additionally, caregivers reported TempTraq was tolerable and easy to apply.
The impact of insurance coverage on the prenatal genetic counseling process: An exploration of genetic counselors' experiences with TRICARE
Authors: Brown Jordan , O'Neill Suzanne , DiNonno Wendy , Hess Olivia
Published: March 2019

The prenatal genetic counseling process may be influenced by the patient's insurance coverage for both prenatal testing and termination. Major commercial insurance providers have different policies. TRICARE is the United States Department of Defense health program for uniformed service members. TRICARE provides coverage to approximately 9.4 million beneficiaries, including health plans, special programs, prescriptions, and dental plans. TRICARE's covered medical expenses are outlined in their policies, including those pertaining to genetic testing and termination. This qualitative study aimed to explore the extent to which insurance coverage of prenatal genetic testing and termination of pregnancy affect the genetic counseling process by exploring genetic counselors' experience with TRICARE. The majority of counselors stated that they did not change their overall counseling process for TRICARE patients. However, several counselors expressed that they changed the way they discussed cost with TRICARE patients, specifically in regard to genetic testing. Additionally, counselors provided their perceptions of their patients' emotional experiences. With the recent consolidation of the three TRICARE regions into two TRICARE Regional Office (TRO) regions and the renewal of the Laboratory Developed Tests Demonstration Project, the findings of this study are valuable in the evaluation of TRICARE's coverage of prenatal genetic services.
Coupling and decarboxylation mechanism of oxaloacetic acid and ethylenediamine: A theoretical investigation
Authors: Cheng Xueli
Published: March 2019

The decarboxylation mechanism of deprotonated oxaloacetate at pH = 8.0 in aid of protonated ethylenediamine was investigated systematically by full optimization at M06‐2X/6‐311++G(d,p) level combined with the CPCM solvation model to consider the effect of bulk water, where the roles of the carbinolamine and imine intermediates were elucidated. In the minimum energy path, the NH3+ group binds to the β‐carboxyl group of oxaloacetate via a hydrogen bond, and the amino group as both a nucleophile and an electrophile connects to the CO group by a hydrogen transfer process with a free‐energy barrier of 131.9 kJ/mol. Then the carbinolamine intermediate is dehydrated to form an imine with a total barrier of 164.2 kJ/mol, which is the rate‐limiting step in this energetically most favorable channel. After a proton transfer process, the β‐decarboxylation barrier is only 49.6 kJ/mol.
Producing highly linear polyethylenes by using t‐butyl‐functionalized 2,6‐bis(imino)pyridylchromium(III) chlorides
Authors: Huang Chuanbing , Vignesh Arumugam , Bariashir Chantsalnyam , Mahmood Qaiser , Ma Yanping , Sun Yang , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: March 2019

A new family of t‐butyl substituted chromium(III) chloride complexes (Cr1–Cr6), bearing 2‐(1‐(2,6‐dibenzhydryl‐4‐t‐butylphenylimino)ethyl)‐6‐(1‐(arylimino)ethyl)pyridine (aryl = 2,6‐Me2C6H3 Cr1, 2,6‐Et2C6H3 Cr2, 2,6‐i‐Pr2C6H3 Cr3, 2,4,6‐Me3C6H2 Cr4 and 2,6‐Et2‐4‐MeC6H2 Cr5) or 2,6‐bis(1‐(2,6‐dibenzhydryl‐4‐t‐butylphenylimino)ethyl)pyridine (Cr6), has been synthesized by the reaction of CrCl3·6H2O in good yield with the corresponding ligands (L1–L6), respectively. The molecular structures of Cr2 and Cr6 were characterized by X‐ray diffraction highlighted a distorted octahedral geometry with the coordinated N,N,N ligand and three bonded chlorides around the metal center. On activation with modified methylaluminoxane or triisobutyl aluminum, most of the chromium precatalysts exhibit good activities toward ethylene polymerization and produce linear polyethylenes with high‐molecular weight. In addition, an in‐depth catalytic evaluation of Cr2 was conducted to investigate how cocatalyst type and amount, reaction temperature, and run time affect the catalytic activities and polymer properties. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1049–1058
A randomized controlled intervention to promote readiness to genetic counseling for breast cancer survivors
Authors: Kasting Monica L. , Conley Claire C. , Hoogland Aasha I. , Scherr Courtney L. , Kim Jongphil , Thapa Ram , Reblin Maija , Meade Cathy D. , Lee M. Catherine , Pal Tuya , Quinn Gwendolyn P. , Vadaparampil Susan T.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Breast cancer (BC) survivors with a genetic mutation are at higher risk for subsequent cancer; knowing genetic risk status could help survivors make decisions about follow‐up screening. Uptake of genetic counseling and testing (GC/GT) to determine BRCA status is low among high risk BC survivors. This study assessed feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a newly developed psychoeducational intervention (PEI) for GC/GT.

Methods

High risk BC survivors (N = 119) completed a baseline questionnaire and were randomized to the intervention (PEI video/booklet) or control (factsheet) group. Follow‐up questionnaires were completed 2 weeks after baseline (T2), and 4 months after T2 (T3). We analyzed recruitment, retention (feasibility), whether the participant viewed study materials (acceptability), intent to get GC/GT (efficacy), and psychosocial outcomes (eg, perceived risk, Impact of Events Scale [IES]). t tests or chi‐square tests identified differences between intervention groups at baseline. Mixed models examined main effects of group, time, and group‐by‐time interactions.

Results

Groups were similar on demographic characteristics (P ≥ .05). Of participants who completed the baseline questionnaire, 91% followed through to study completion and 92% viewed study materials. A higher percentage of participants in the intervention group moved toward GC/GT (28% vs 8%; P = .027). Mixed models demonstrated significant group‐by‐time interactions for perceived risk (P = .029), IES (P = .027), and IES avoidance subscale (P = .012).

Conclusions

The PEI was feasible, acceptable, and efficacious. Women in the intervention group reported greater intentions to pursue GC, greater perceived risk, and decreased avoidance. Future studies should seek to first identify system‐level barriers and facilitators before aiming to address individual‐level barriers.
Communication of emotion in home hospice cancer care: Implications for spouse caregiver depression into bereavement
Authors: Reblin Maija , Baucom Brian R.W. , Clayton Margaret F. , Utz Rebecca , Caserta Michael , Lund Dale , Mooney Kathi , Ellington Lee
Published: March 2019

Objective

Family caregivers of cancer hospice patients likely benefit from clinician provision of verbal support and from expression of positive emotions. Our aim was to identify the effects of hospice nurse supportive communication as well as caregiver‐nurse exchange of positive emotions on family caregiver depression during bereavement.

Methods

This prospective, observational longitudinal study included hospice nurses (N = 58) and family caregivers of cancer patients (N = 101) recruited from 10 hospice agencies in the United States. Digitally recorded nurse home visit conversations were coded using Roter interaction analysis system to capture emotion‐focused caregiver‐nurse communication and supportive nurse responses. Caregivers completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale Anxiety Subscale and Geriatric Depression Scale‐Short Form at study enrollment and at 2, 6, and 12 months after patient death.

Results

Caregivers had moderate levels of depression at study enrollment and throughout bereavement. Multilevel modeling revealed that caregiver positive emotion communication and nurse emotional response communication are associated with caregiver depression in bereavement. There was no significant association between caregiver distress communication and depression in bereavement.

Conclusions

This is the first study to demonstrate that communication demonstrating emotional expression between cancer spouse caregivers and nurses during home hospice may have implications for caregiver depression up to a year after patient death. Our findings may help identify caregivers who may be coping well in the short term but may struggle more over time.
Assessing the cost‐effectiveness of RT Prepare: A radiation therapist–delivered intervention for reducing psychological distress prior to radiotherapy
Authors: Youens David , Halkett Georgia , Wright Cameron , O'Connor Moira , Schofield Penelope , Jefford Michael , Aranda Sanchia , Kane Robert , Moorin Rachael ,   on behalf of the RT Prepare project team
Published: March 2019

Objective

To determine the cost‐effectiveness of RT Prepare in reducing breast cancer patients' psychological distress before treatment, compared with usual care.

Methods

RT Prepare, an intervention involving patient education and support consultations with a radiation therapist (RT), was implemented at three Australian sites (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registration: ACTRN12611001000998). The primary outcome was change in psychological distress using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS); secondary outcomes were changes in quality of life (QoL) and additional health service use. Costs (2015 $AU) included consultation time and training delivery. Between‐group comparisons of HADS and QoL used generalised linear mixed models, and comparisons of health service use used negative binomial regression. Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) indicated mean costs per 1‐point decrease in HADS score. Sensitivity analyses explored variation in facility size and uncertainty in intervention effectiveness.

Results

Among 218 controls and 189 intervention participants, the intervention significantly lowered HADS scores at treatment commencement (adjusted mean difference 1.06 points). There was no significant effect on QoL or additional service use. Mean intervention costs were AU$171 per participant (US$130, €119) mostly related to RT training (approximately AU$142 (US$108, €99). An ICER of $158 (US$120, €110) was estimated. Cost‐effectiveness improved in a sensitivity analysis representing a large facility with higher patient numbers.

Conclusion

This study provides new data on the cost‐effectiveness of an RT‐delivered intervention to reduce psychological distress prior to treatment, which will be useful to inform delivery of similar services. As most costs were upfront, cost‐effectiveness would likely improve if implemented as standard care.
A pilot study of heated and humidified low flow oxygen therapy: An assessment in infants with mild and moderate bronchiolitis (HHOT AIR study)
Authors: Chen Diana Y. , Zee Eric D. , Gildengorin Ginny , Fong Edward W.
Published: March 2019

Background

Heated and humidified high flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy has been used in children with severe bronchiolitis. No data exists in children with mild to moderate bronchiolitis requiring lower flows of heated and humidified oxygen therapy.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, randomized pilot study of standard dry oxygen (control) versus heated and humidified low flow nasal cannula (HHLFNC), <4 liters per minute (LPM) oxygen, (treatment) in healthy children ≤24 months old with bronchiolitis. Clinical assessments were made using Respiratory Distress Assessment Instrument (RDAI), respiratory rate (RR), and oxygen saturation.

Results

Thirty‐two children were enrolled (16 participants in each group). There was no significant difference in mean RDAI over time between groups. There was a significant difference in mean RDAI over time within control group, at hour 12, and treatment group, at hour 1, compared to baseline. RDAI in the treatment group was overall lower over time compared to control group. There was no significant difference in mean RR over time between or within groups, between mean length of stay and duration of oxygen requirement. Subgroup analyses showed lower RDAI in subjects that had RSV infection, male gender, and non‐black race.

Conclusions

The use of HHLFNC oxygen therapy may provide more comfort and may result in more rapid improvements in RDAI compared to standard dry oxygen therapy over time. HHFLNC is safe and well tolerated compared to standard dry oxygen. Larger studies are needed to assess the clinical efficacy of HHLFNC oxygen therapy.
Aerosolized agents for airway clearance in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Southern Kevin W. , Clancy John P. , Ranganathan Sarath
Published: March 2019

The outlook for people with cystic fibrosis (CF) has improved considerably as a result of conventional therapies including aerosolized agents for airway clearance. These will continue to play a significant role in maintaining well‐being and improving survival, even as newer agents emerge that correct the underlying CF defect. In this review, we explore the evidence supporting the use of dornase alfa, hypertonic saline, and mannitol in improving mucus clearance in patients with CF from different age groups with differing disease severity. We also discuss the clinical use of these agents in the context of available international guidelines as well as practical considerations in the clinic, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and shared decision‐making. Unanswered questions regarding the optimal use of these agents are highlighted.
Severe asthma in children—a review of definitions, epidemiology, and treatment options in 2019
Authors: Ahmed Husam , Turner Steve
Published: March 2019

Severe asthma is a relatively uncommon condition in children but one which causes morbidity, occasionally mortality, and is a challenging condition to manage. There are several definitions of severe asthma, which have a common theme of poor control despite high dose inhaled corticosteroid treatment. Depending on the definition chosen, the prevalence of severe childhood asthma may be up to 5% within populations with asthma. Collectively, there is some evidence that the treatments used in severe asthma are beneficial, but a solid evidence‐base is lacking for many treatments and some treatments have recognized side effects. Evidence supporting the use of maintenance oral prednisolone and intramuscular triamcinolone is weak. Response to systemic corticosteroids is heterogeneous and recognizing phenotypes or endotypes may identify those most likely to gain maximal benefit from treatment. For children aged 6 to 11 years, the anti‐IgE biologic omalizumab is effective and anti‐IL‐5 agent (mepolizumab) has recently been licenced in Europe (but not the US). Biologics, which are licenced for >11 year olds include omalizumab, mepolizumab, benralizumab, reslizumab, and dupilumab. There is plenty that the clinician can offer to the child and adolescent with severe asthma in 2019, including nontherapeutic and therapeutic interventions. To manage severe asthma, practitioners from broad specialities must establish and maintain a close therapeutic relationship with patients. Looking beyond 2019, more treatment options will emerge for severe childhood asthma, and clinical teams will need to continue weighing up benefits and harms.
Plant terpenes that mediate below‐ground interactions: prospects for bioengineering terpenoids for plant protection
Authors: Huang Ancheng C , Osbourn Anne
Published: March 2019

Plants are sessile organisms that have evolved various mechanisms to adapt to complex and changing environments. One important feature of plant adaption is the production of specialised metabolites. Terpenes are the largest class of specialised metabolites, with over 80 000 structures reported so far, and they have important ecological functions in plant adaptation. Here, we review the current knowledge on plant terpenes that mediate below‐ground interactions between plants and other organisms, including microbes, herbivores and other plants. The discovery, functions and biosynthesis of these terpenes are discussed, and prospects for bioengineering terpenoids for plant protection are considered. © 2019 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Impact of acute oral exposure to thiamethoxam on the homing, flight, learning acquisition and short‐term retention of Apis cerana
Authors: Ma Changsheng , Zhang Yongkui , Sun Jia , Imran Muhammad , Yang Huipeng , Wu Jie , Zou Yi , Li‐Byarlay Hongmei , Luo Shudong
Published: March 2019

Background

Thiamethoxam (TMX) represents the second generation of neonicotinoids that has been widely applied in agricultural activities, while how TMX alters the behavior of Apis cerana, an important native honey bee species in China, is not clear. We carried out three independent experiments to study the impact of acute oral treatment of 20 μL TMX at concentrations of 2.4 ppb (0.048 ng/bee) and 10 ppb (0.2 ng/bee) on the homing, flight, learning acquisition and short‐term retention ability of A. cerana. The homing ability was assessed by the catch‐and‐release method, the flight ability was assessed by flight mills, and the learning acquisition and short‐term retention were evaluated by the proboscis extension response method.

Results

When treated with 10 ppb of TMX, bees had a significantly higher average homing time, mean flight velocity, flying distance, and flying duration than the control, whereas 2.4 ppb concentration did not cause any significant effect on homing or flight ability. Bees treated with either 2.4 ppb or 10 ppb TMX had significantly lower learning acquisition and short‐term retention ability.

Conclusion

Results suggest that acute oral exposure to 10 ppb of TMX altered the short‐distance homing time, flight ability, and learning acquisition and short‐term retention ability. Our study also highlights the concern that acute oral exposure to a low concentration of 2.4 ppb could have consequences on the behavior of A. creana. Those multiple sublethal alterations on A. cerana's behavior indicate that TMX are likely having complex but negative consequences on bee health in the field. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Tyrocidine A interactions with saccharides investigated by CD and NMR spectroscopies
Authors: Juhl Dennis Wilkens , van Rensburg Wilma , Bossis Xavier , Vosloo J. Arnold , Rautenbach Marina , Bechinger Burkhard
Published: March 2019

Tyrocidines are a family of cyclic decapeptides produced by the soil bacterium, Brevibacillus parabrevis. These antibiotic peptides can be used to prevent infections in agriculture and food industry but also to prepare antimicrobial lozenges, creams, and dressings for medical applications. It has been observed that the tyrocidines interact with saccharides such as cellulose from their soil environment, as well as sugars in culture media and glycans in fungal cell walls. Here, we investigated the interactions of tyrocidines with glucose, sucrose, and cellotetraose (as cellulose model) in a quantitative fashion utilising CD and NMR spectroscopy. The CD and NMR spectra of tyrocidine A (TrcA) were analysed as a function of solvent composition, and the spectral properties agree with the formation of oligomeric structures that are governed by β‐sheet secondary structures once the acetonitrile content of the solvent is increased. Saccharides seem to also induce TrcA spectral changes reverting those induced by organic solvents. The CD spectral changes of TrcA in the presence of glucose agree with new ordered H‐bonding, possibly β‐sheet structures. The amides involved in intramolecular H‐bonding remained largely unaffected by the environmental changes. In contrast, amides exposed to the exterior and/or involved in TrcA intermolecular association show the largest 1H chemical shift changes. CD and NMR spectroscopic investigations correlated well with TrcA‐glucose interactions characterized by a dissociation constant around 200 μM. Interestingly, the association of cellotetraose corresponds closely to the additive effect from four glucose moieties, while a much higher dissociation constant was observed for sucrose. Similar trends to TrcA for binding to the three saccharides were observed for the analogous tyrocidines, tyrocidine B, and tyrocidine C. These results therefore indicate that the tyrocidine interactions with the glucose monosaccharide unit are fairly specific and reversible.