bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Randomized clinical trial of continuous transversus abdominis plane block, epidural or patient-controlled analgesia for patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery
Authors: Xu Y J , Sun X , Jiang H , Yin Y H , Weng M L , Sun Z R , Chen W K , Miao C H
Published: January 2020

Background

The optimal analgesia regimen after laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery is unclear. The aim of the study was to characterize the beneficial effects of continuous transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks initiated before operation on outcomes following laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery.

Methods

Patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer were divided randomly into three groups: combined general–TAP anaesthesia (TAP group), combined general–thoracic epidural anaesthesia (TEA group) and standard general anaesthesia (GA group). The primary endpoint was duration of hospital stay. Secondary endpoints included gastrointestinal motility, pain scores and plasma levels of cytokines.

Results

In total, 180 patients were randomized and 165 completed the trial. The intention-to-treat analysis showed that duration of hospital stay was significantly longer in the TEA group than in the TAP and GA groups (median 4·1 (95 per cent c.i. 3·8 to 4·3) versus 3·1 (3·0 to 3·3) and versus 3·3 (3·2 to 3·6) days respectively; both P < 0·001). Time to first flatus was earlier in the TAP group (P < 0·001). Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores during coughing were lower in the TAP and TEA groups than the GA group (P < 0·001). Raised plasma levels of vascular endothelial growth factor C, interleukin 6, adrenaline and cortisol were attenuated significantly by continuous TAP block.

Conclusion

Continuous TAP analgesia not only improved gastrointestinal motility but also shortened duration of hospital stay. A decreased opioid requirement and attenuating surgical stress response may be potential mechanisms. Registration number: ChiCTR-TRC-1800015535 (http://www.chictr.org.cn).
Framework for prehabilitation services
Authors: Bates A , West M A , Jack S
Published: January 2020

A video abstract is available at https://youtu.be/LYJPmWunnKE
Sex differences in the association between prenatal exposure to maternal obesity and hippocampal volume in children
Authors: Alves Jasmin M. , Luo Shan , Chow Ting , Herting Megan , Xiang Anny H. , Page Kathleen A.
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Animal studies have shown that male but not female offspring exposed to maternal obesity have abnormal hippocampal development. Similar sex differences were observed in animal models of developmental programming by prenatal stress or maternal diabetes. We aimed to translate this work into humans by examining sex‐specific effects of exposure to maternal obesity on hippocampal volume in children.

Methods

Eighty‐eight children (37 boys and 51 girls) aged 7–11 years completed the study. Maternal prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) was obtained from electronic medical records. A high‐resolution anatomical scan was performed using a 3‐Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. Total hippocampal volume and hippocampal subfield volumes were analyzed using FreeSurfer 6.0. Linear regression was used to investigate sex differences in relationships between maternal prepregnancy BMI and child hippocampal volume.

Results

Maternal prepregnancy BMI ranged from 19.0 to 50.4 kg/m2. We observed a significant interaction between maternal prepregnancy BMI and sex on total hippocampal volume (p < .001) such that boys (r = −.39, p = .018) but not girls (r = .11, p = .45) had a significant negative relationship between maternal prepregnancy BMI and total hippocampal volume. This relationship in boys remained significant after adjusting for child and maternal covariates (β = −126.98, p = .012). The sex interactions with prepregnancy BMI were consistently observed in hippocampal subfields CA1 (p = .008), CA2/3 (p = .016), CA4 (p = .002), dentate gyrus (p < .001), and subiculum (p < .001).

Conclusions

Our results support findings in animal models and suggest that boys may be more vulnerable to the adverse effects of exposure to maternal obesity on hippocampal development than girls.
The risk of early mortality in elderly patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Liu Chia‐Jen , Hong Ying‐Chung , Kuan Ai Seon , Yeh Chiu‐Mei , Tsai Chun‐Kuang , Liu Yao‐Chung , Hsiao Liang‐Tsai , Wang Hao‐Yuan , Ko Po‐Shen , Chen Po‐Min , Liu Jin‐Hwang , Gau Jyh‐Pyng
Published: January 2020

Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a common hematologic neoplasm with high incidence and mortality in the elderly. Our aims were to explore risk factors for early mortality in elderly AML patients and develop a new prognostic score.

Methods

We enrolled newly diagnosed AML patients age 60 and above at Taipei Veterans General Hospital between July 2008 and May 2017. The primary endpoint was early mortality, defined as death within two months after AML diagnosis. A multivariate Cox proportional hazards model was used to build a risk‐scoring system incorporating significant risk factors for AML.

Results

The final cohort included 277 elderly AML patients. The median age was 74 (range 60‐96), and 61.7% were male. The two‐month mortality rate was 29.9%. Age ≥ 80 (adjusted HR 1.88), myocardial infarction (adjusted HR 1.87), ECOG ≥ 2 (adjusted HR 2.10), complex karyotype (adjusted HR 3.21), bone marrow blasts ≥ 70% (adjusted HR 1.88), WBC ≥ 100 × 109/L (adjusted HR 3.31), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 45 (adjusted HR 2.60) were identified as independent predictors for early mortality in the multivariate analysis. A simplified score incorporating the seven factors was developed with good predictive ability measured by Harrell's C statistic [0.72 (95% CI 0.66‐0.78)].

Conclusions

We identified seven potential risk factors for early mortality and built up a new prognostic score for elderly AML patients. The new score may help clinicians stratify patients and initiate appropriate management. Further validation of our findings on other cohorts is warranted.
Fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase degradation in the methylotrophic yeast Komagataella phaffii occurs in autophagy pathway
Authors: Dmytruk Olena , Bulbotka Nina , Zazulya Anastasya , Semkiv Marta , Dmytruk Kostyantyn , Sibirny Andriy
Published: January 2020

Many enzymes of methanol metabolism of methylotrophic yeasts are located in peroxisomes whereas some of them have the cytosolic localization. After shift of methanol‐grown cells of methylotrophic yeasts to glucose medium, a decrease in the activity of cytosolic (formaldehyde dehydrogenase, formate dehydrogenase, and fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase [FBP]) along with peroxisomal enzymes of methanol metabolism is observed. Mechanisms of inactivation of cytosolic enzymes remain unknown. To study the mechanism of FBP inactivation, the changes in its specific activity of the wild type strain GS200, the strain with the deletion of the GSS1 hexose sensor gene and strain defected in autophagy pathway SMD1163 of Komagataella phaffii with or without the addition of the MG132 (proteasome degradation inhibitor) were investigated after shift of methanol‐grown cells in glucose medium. Western blot analysis showed that inactivation of FBP in GS200 occurred due to protein degradation whereas inactivation in the strains SMD1163 and gss1Δ was negligible in such conditions. The effect of the proteasome inhibitor MG132 on FBP inactivation was insignificant. To confirm FBP degradation pathway, the recombinant strains with GFP‐labeled Fbp1 of K. phaffii and red fluorescent protein‐labeled peroxisomes were constructed on the background of GS200 and SMD1163. The fluorescent microscopy analysis of the constructed strains was performed using the vacuolar membrane dye FM4‐64. Microscopic data confirmed that Fbp1 degrades by autophagy pathway in K. phaffii. K. phaffii transformants, which express heterologous β‐galactosidase under FLD promoter, have been constructed.
Hemodynamics of constrictive pericarditis and restrictive cardiomyopathy
Authors: Goldstein James A. , Kern Morton J.
Published: January 2020

Constrictive pericarditis (CP) and restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) are indolent disabling diseases of diastolic function. The two conditions share common pathophysiologic features, resulting in similar and overlapping clinical presentations, echocardiographic findings, and hemodynamic characteristics. However, their clinical course differs, as CP is surgically curable whereas RCM is a chronic condition managed medically. Separating these two entities is based on delineation of anatomic and physiologic derangements employing multimodality hemodynamic interrogation by advanced imaging techniques (Echo–Doppler, CT, and especially MRI) combined with sophisticated invasive hemodynamics.
Color‐Tunable Light‐up Bioorthogonal Probes for In Vivo Two‐Photon Fluorescence Imaging
Authors: Dou Yandong , Wang Yajun , Duan Yukun , Liu Bin , Hu Qinglian , Shen Wei , Sun Hongyan , Zhu Qing
Published: January 2020

Light‐up bioorthogonal probes have attracted increasing attention recently due to their capability to directly image diverse biomolecules in living cells without washing steps. The development of bioorthogonal probes with excellent fluorescent properties suitable for in vivo imaging, such as long excitation/emission wavelength, high fluorescence turn‐on ratio, and deep penetration, has been rarely reported. Herein, a series of azide‐based light‐up bioorthogonal probes with tunable colors based on a weak fluorescent 8‐aminoquinoline (AQ) scaffold were designed and synthesized. The azido quinoline derivatives are able to induce large fluorescence enhancement (up to 1352‐fold) after click reaction with alkynes. In addition, the probes could be engineered to exhibit excellent two‐photon properties (δ=542 GM at 780 nm) after further introducing different styryl groups into the AQ scaffold. Subsequent detailed bioimaging experiments demonstrated that these versatile probes can be successfully used for live cell/zebrafish imaging without washing steps. Further in vivo two‐photon imaging experiments demonstrated that these light‐up biorthogonal probe outperformed conventional fluorophores, for example, high signal‐to‐noise ratio and deep tissue penetration. The design strategy reported in this study is a useful approach to realize diverse high‐performance biorthogonal light‐up probes for in vivo studying.
Magnesium‐Catalyzed Tandem Dehydrogenation‐Dehydrocoupling: An Atom Economical Access to Alkynylboranes
Authors: Birepinte Mélodie , Liautard Virginie , Chabaud Laurent , Pucheault Mathieu
Published: January 2020

Owing to the unusual reactivity of sterically hindered amine–borane complexes, a catalytic system based on magnesium salts was designed to perform a tandem dehydrogenation–dehydrocoupling between terminal alkynes and boranes. The reaction is providing pure alkynylboranes within few minutes at room temperature, with only two molecules of hydrogen as a byproduct.
Effect of Adsorption of ZrO2 in Catalysts on the Efficiency of Hydrolysisof Cellulose to Sugar in Aqueous System under Microwave Radiation
Authors: Qiao Ying , Feng Lixin , Li Zhongqiu , Zhang Zhenyu , Chen Jing , Na Haining , Zhu Jin , Chen Lai
Published: January 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

Five types of ZrO2 are used to simply establish an effective aqueous catalytic system with sulfuric acid for the hydrolysis of cellulose to sugar, respectively. By adjusting surface roughness and particle size of ZrO2, different adsorption is produced. Accordingly, following the thought to inhibit the self‐aggregation nature of cellulose, after the introduction of ZrO2 with adsorption in catalysts, the efficiency of the hydrolysis of cellulose to sugar is improved. The results show different ZrO2 can produce different effects during the hydrolysis of the cellulose with relatively low crystallinity. Under the optimal conditions, the conversion of cellulose and TRS yield reaches 95.5% and 93.6%, respectively. Through this research, it reveals the critical point to organize a feasible and useful way for the hydrolysis of cellulose to sugar with high efficiency in an aqueous system. An important theoretical and technical support is also provided for the conversion and utilization of cellulose in the future.
Breast cancer screening disparities between women with and without disabilities: A national database study in South Korea
Authors: Shin Dong Wook , Yu Jonghan , Cho Juhee , Lee Se Kyung , Jung Jin Hyung , Han Kyungdo , Kim So Young , Yoo Jung Eun , Yeob Kyoung Eun , Kim Yeon Yong , Park Jong Heon , Park Jong Hyock , Kawachi Ichiro
Published: January 2020

Background

Health disparities among individuals with disabilities remain underrecognized. The objective of the current study was to investigate: 1) whether disparities exist in breast cancer screening rates among women with disabilities compared with women without disabilities; 2) whether breast cancer screening rates vary according to the type and severity of disabilities; and 3) trends in breast cancer screening disparities according to disability status over time.

Methods

Using national administrative databases concerning disability status and national cancer screening programs in Korea, age‐standardized participation rates were calculated according to the type and severity of disabilities.

Results

The age‐standardized rate for breast cancer screening in individuals with disabilities increased from 30.2% in 2006 to 53.7% in 2015 (change of +23.5%), whereas that among those without a disability increased from 29.3% to 60.1% (change of +30.8%). In general, disability was associated with slightly lower breast cancer screening rates (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.824; 95% CI, 0.820‐0.828). However, screening rates were especially low in women with severe disabilities (aOR, 0.465; 95% CI, 0.461‐0.469) and among women with autism (aOR, 0.235; 95% CI, 0.143‐0.388), renal failure (aOR, 0.342; 95% CI, 0.337‐0.348), brain injury (aOR, 0.349; 95% CI, 0.346‐0.352), intellectual disabilities (aOR, 0.403; 95% CI, 0.397‐0.410), mental disorders (aOR, 0.494; 95% CI, 0.488‐0.501), or ostomies (aOR, 0.529; 95% CI, 0.512‐0.546).

Conclusions

Even without a cost barrier, significant disparities were found in breast cancer screening participation, especially in women with severe disabilities and brain‐related and/or mental disabilities. Policy efforts, such as ensuring the accessibility of information and equipment, transportation support, and access to a usual source of care, should be made to decrease this disparity.
Mass spectrometry imaging to detect lipid biomarkers and disease signatures in cancer
Authors: Holzlechner Matthias , Eugenin Eliseo , Prideaux Brendan
Published: January 2020

Background

Current methods to identify, classify, and predict tumor behavior mostly rely on histology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular determinants. However, better predictive markers are required for tumor diagnosis and evaluation. Due, in part, to recent technological advancements, metabolomics and lipid biomarkers have become a promising area in cancer research. Therefore, there is a necessity for novel and complementary techniques to identify and visualize these molecular markers within tumors and surrounding tissue.

Recent Findings

Since its introduction, mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has proven to be a powerful tool for mapping analytes in biological tissues. By adding the label‐free specificity of mass spectrometry to the detailed spatial information of traditional histology, hundreds of lipids can be imaged simultaneously within a tumor. MSI provides highly detailed lipid maps for comparing intra‐tumor, tumor margin, and healthy regions to identify biomarkers, patterns of disease, and potential therapeutic targets. In this manuscript, recent advancement in sample preparation and MSI technologies are discussed with special emphasis on cancer lipid research to identify tumor biomarkers.

Conclusion

MSI offers a unique approach for biomolecular characterization of tumor tissues and provides valuable complementary information to histology for lipid biomarker discovery and tumor classification in clinical and research cancer applications.
Machine Learning for Analysis of Microscopy Images: A Practical Guide
Authors: Zinchuk Vadim , Grossenbacher‐Zinchuk Olga
Published: January 2020

The explosive growth of machine learning has provided scientists with insights into data in ways unattainable using prior research techniques. It has allowed the detection of biological features that were previously unrecognized and overlooked. However, because machine‐learning methodology originates from informatics, many cell biology labs have experienced difficulties in implementing this approach. In this article, we target the rapidly expanding audience of cell and molecular biologists interested in exploiting machine learning for analysis of their research. We discuss the advantages of employing machine learning with microscopy approaches and describe the machine‐learning pipeline. We also give practical guidelines for building models of cell behavior using machine learning. We conclude with an overview of the tools required for model creation, and share advice on their use. © 2020 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Handoff strategies between wireless fidelity to light fidelity systems for improving video streaming in high‐speed vehicular networks
Authors: Valiveti Hima Bindu , Kumar Budati Anil
Published: January 2020

Recent times witness heavy usage of high‐speed vehicles specially trains commuting long distances. Managing connectivity both indoor and outdoor for these vehicular networks is inevitable. Practically, the concept of wireless fidelity (WiFi) proves to be very fluctuating for the indoor users travelling in high‐speed vehicles as it operates under radio frequencies in the frequency spectrum, and handoff becomes mandatory as the user is mobile. With the introduction of light fidelity (LiFi), indoor connectivity between the mobile terminals is improved as the conversation is through light emitting diodes (LEDs) and photo detectors, which act as transmitters and receivers, respectively. Usage of LiFi in the high‐speed vehicular networks also nullifies the repercussions generated by using WiFi's highly radiated electro magnetic (EM) waves. The work proposes the use of LiFi in high‐speed rail networks for passengers streaming of videos. Travelers in train can access internet using LiFi, which uses ultra asymmetrically and symmetrically clipping optical (ASCO)–orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) (UASCO‐OFDM) as its modulation technique. A proxy server is deployed to enhance video streaming. Furthermore, the travelers using internet need handoff in case of change in connectivity between access points (APs) of WiFi and LiFi for both outdoor and indoor, respectively. The work emphasizes on handoff based on the estimation of signal to interference ratio (SIR) followed by the combination of grey system. The performance analysis of the proposed system shows improvements in handoff probability, average delay, and spectral efficiency of modulation technique when compared to the existing literature.
Role of PCSK9 in the course of ejection fraction change after ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction: a pilot study
Authors: Miñana Gema , Núñez Julio , Bayés‐Genís Antoni , Revuelta‐López Elena , Ríos‐Navarro César , Núñez Eduardo , Chorro Francisco J. , López‐Lereu Maria Pilar , Monmeneu Jose Vicente , Lupón Josep , Sanchis Juan , Bodí Vicent
Published: January 2020

Aims

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has emerged as a therapeutic target for reducing plasma low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Beyond lipid control, recent findings suggest a deleterious effect of this protein in the pathogenesis of postmyocardial infarction left ventricle remodelling and heart failure‐related complications. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between circulating PCSK9 and 6 month cardiac magnetic resonance imaging‐derived left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) after a first ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods and results

We prospectively evaluated 40 patients with a first STEMI, LVEF < 50% and treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention in which PCSK9 was measured 24 h postreperfusion. All patients underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging 1 week and 6 months after STEMI. Baseline characteristics were compared across median values of PCSK9. The association between PCSK9 levels and LVEF at 6 months was evaluated by analysis of covariance. The mean age of the sample was 60 ± 12 years and 33 (82.5%) were male patients. The infarct location was anterior in 27 patients (67.5%), and 9 patients (22.5%) were Killip class ≥ II. The mean 1 week and 6 month LVEF were 41 ± 7% and 48 ± 10%, respectively. The mean PCSK9 was 1.93 ± 0.38 U/mL. Testing the association between serum PCSK9 and 6 month LVEF with analysis of covariance revealed an inverse relationship (r = −0.35, P = 0.028). After multivariate adjustment, circulating PCSK9 remained significant and inversely associated with 6 month LVEF (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

In patients with a first STEMI with reduced ejection fraction at index admission and treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention, circulating PCSK9 was associated with lower LVEF at 6 months.
Analysis of the energy storage battery and fuel tank of a commercial electric vehicle with range extender during charge sustaining operation
Authors: Boretti Alberto
Published: January 2020

The energy storage of a commercial plug‐in battery‐electric vehicle (BEV) with an internal combustion engine (ICE) range extender is here analyzed covering Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule, Hwy and US06 cycles during Charge Sustaining Operation. Instantaneous voltage, current and state‐of‐charge of the battery, vehicle speed, ICE speed, and fuel flow rate are obtained from chassis dynamometer measurements. A simple model for inertia, aerodynamics, and rolling forces for the vehicle, provides efficiencies of energy transfers/conversions through the different components, ICE, generator, discharge limiter, battery, traction motor/generator, and driveline. The results provide a benchmark of energy efficiency of current plug‐in BEV with range extender ICE. It is concluded that the energy efficiency may be dramatically improved if the low‐tech engine switched on/off when the battery is fully depleted, is replaced by a smaller high‐efficiency engine continuously operated over a fixed point. This way, a small battery can replace a large battery, with benefit to the economy and the environment, and better sustainability, for reduced construction costs and better economy of a lighter vehicle. Furthermore, the electricity production on demand may occur on board at a better fuel conversion efficiency than centralized produced distributed electricity from mostly fossil fuel sources with no need for infrastructure.
Combining multivariate volatility forecasts using weighted losses
Authors: Clements Adam , Doolan Mark Bernard
Published: January 2020

The ability to improve out‐of‐sample forecasting performance by combining forecasts is well established in the literature. This paper advances this literature in the area of multivariate volatility forecasts by developing two combination weighting schemes that exploit volatility persistence to emphasise certain losses within the combination estimation period. A comprehensive empirical analysis of the out‐of‐sample forecast performance across varying dimensions, loss functions, sub‐samples and forecast horizons show that new approaches significantly outperform their counterparts in terms of statistical accuracy. Within the financial applications considered, significant benefits from combination forecasts relative to the individual candidate models are observed. Although the more sophisticated combination approaches consistently rank higher relative to the equally weighted approach, their performance is statistically indistinguishable given the relatively low power of these loss functions. Finally, within the applications, further analysis highlights how combination forecasts dramatically reduce the variability in the parameter of interest, namely the portfolio weight or beta.
Skepticism toward globalization, technological knowledge flows, and the emergence of a new global system
Authors: Buckley Peter J. , Hashai Niron
Published: January 2020

Research Summary

This article examines the potential effect of anti‐globalization on a key attribute of multinational enterprises (MNEs)—the ability to transfer efficiently complex firm‐specific technological knowledge internationally. Anti‐globalization policies can suppress the transfer of complex technological knowledge by limiting the international transfer of intellectual property, restricting the free movement of scientists and engineers or by disharmonizing regulations across nations. Such suppression is shown to significantly change the global system in terms of the location of value‐adding activities, their organizational firm boundaries and the origin of MNEs. The model predicts that after a “shock” of anti‐globalization policies, which significantly increases international technological knowledge flow costs, a smaller number of firm and MNE location and control configurations emerges, and domestic firms become more dominant.

Managerial Summary

Anti‐globalization policies threaten a key feature of multinational enterprises (MNEs)—the ability to transfer efficiently complex technological knowledge across political borders. They do so through limitations on the international transfer of intellectual property, restrictions on the free movement of scientists and engineers as well as through dis‐harmonization of regulations across nations. We present a model that shows that such limitations are likely to change the global system making it much more similar to the one that existed pre‐WW1 and WW2. The emerging global system is predicted to include a large proportion of domestic firms engaging in international trade and MNEs that locate only a small number of value chain activities abroad.
A functional variant near XCL1 gene improves breast cancer survival via promoting cancer immunity
Authors: Chou Wen‐Cheng , Hsiung Chia‐Ni , Chen Wei‐Ting , Tseng Ling‐Ming , Wang Hui‐Chun , Chu Hou‐Wei , Hou Ming‐Feng , Yu Jyh‐Cherng , Shen Chen‐Yang
Published: January 2020

Most genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) identify genetic variants for breast cancer occurrence. In contrast, few are for recurrence and mortality. We conducted a GWAS on breast cancer survival after diagnosis in estrogen receptor‐positive patients, including 953 Taiwanese patients with 159 events. Through Cox proportional hazard models estimation, we identified 24 risk SNPs with p < 1 × 10−5. Based on imputation and integrated analysis, one SNP, rs1024176 (located in 1q24.2, p = 2.43 × 10−5) was found to be a functional variant associated with breast cancer survival and XCL1 gene expression. A series of experimental approaches, including cell‐based analyses and CRISPR/Cas9 genome‐editing system, were then used and identified the transcription factor MYBL2 was able to discriminately bind to the A allele of rs1024176, the protective variant for breast cancer survival, which promoted XCL1 expression, but not to the G allele of rs1024176. The chemokine XCL1 attracts type 1 dendritic cells (DC1s) to the tumor microenvironment. In breast cancer tissues, we applied a two‐step Mendelian randomization analysis, using expression quantitative trait loci as instrumental variables, to confirm higher XCL1 expression was correlated with higher DC1 signatures and favorable disease progression, through the causal effect of rs1024176‐A allele. Our study supports the genetic effect on preventing breast cancer survival through XCL1‐induced DC1 recruitment in tumor microenvironment.
Self‐assembled biomimetic Nano‐Matrix for stem cell anchorage
Authors: Zhou Libo , Yau Anne , Yu Hongchuan , Kuhn Liisa , Guo Wei , Chen Yupeng
Published: January 2020

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been widely applied in biomedicine due to their ability to differentiate into many different cell types and their ability to synthesize a broad spectrum of growth factors and cytokines that directly and indirectly influence other cells in their vicinity. To guide MSC infiltration to a bone fracture site, we developed a novel self‐assembled Nano‐Matrix which can be used as an injectable scaffold to repair bone fractures. The Nano‐Matrix is formed by Janus base nanotubes (JBNTs) and fibronectin (FN). JBNTs are nucleobase‐derived nanotubes mimicking collagen fibers, and FN is one of the cell adhesive glycoproteins which is responsible for cell–extracellular matrix interactions and guides stem cell migration and differentiation to desired cells types. Here, we demonstrated the successful fabrication and characterization of the JBNT/FN Nano‐Matrix as well as its excellent bioactivity that encouraged human MSC migration and adhesion. This work lays a solid foundation for using the Nano‐Matrix as an injectable approach to improve MSC retention and function during bone fracture healing.
Equivalent mechanical properties of X‐ray and E‐beam cross‐linked vitamin E blended ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene
Authors: Mulliez Marie Anne , Schilling Christoph , Grupp Thomas M.
Published: January 2020

The influence of X‐ray cross‐linking compared with electron beam cross‐linking on the mechanical and thermal properties of UHMWPE blended with 0.1 wt% vitamin E was investigated. Two X‐ray doses (80 and 100 kGy) and two irradiation temperatures (RT: room temperature; 100 °C: warm) were considered. The reference was Vitelene® a vitamin E stabilized UHMWPE cross‐linked with 80 kGy e‐beam at 100°C. Uniaxial tensile and small punch testing were conducted. The Izod impact strength and the thermal properties were determined. The yield, ultimate tensile strength and elongation were 21.7 MPa, 48 MPa, and 393% for Vitelene® and 21.7 MPa, 47 MPa, and 402% for X (80 kGy)‐warm, respectively. The peak load, ultimate displacement, and work to failure accounted for 63 N, 5.7 mm and 331 mJ for Vitelene® and 65 N, 5.6 mm, and 322 mJ for X (80 kGy)‐warm respectively. The Izod impact strength of Vitelene® amounted to 81 kJ/m2, that of X (80 kGy)‐warm to 82 kJ/m2. Crystallinity of both was 52%. The melt temperature of Vitelene® was 140 °C, that of X (80 kGy)‐warm 139°C. In conclusion, using the same irradiation temperature (100 °C) and dose (80 kGy), the different radiation sources e‐beam and X‐rays resulted in equivalent thermal and mechanical properties.
A functional variant in CHK1 contributes to increased risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in a Han Chinese population
Authors: Guo Zhen , Wang Youhong , Zhao Yu , Jin Yi , An Liang , Xu Heng , Liu Zhaoqian , Chen Xiaoping , Zhou Honghao , Wang Hui , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2020

DNA damage checkpoints act as a supervisor by preventing the course of cell cycle upon DNA damage and keeping the steadiness of genome. Checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1) cannot be ignore in the etiology of numerous human cancers including nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC). To discuss genetic polymorphisms of CHK1 rs492510 in the occurrence of NPC was our objective. Rs492510 polymorphism of CHK1 was genotyped in 684 patients with NPC and 823 cancer‐free controls. We utilize logistic regression models to appraise the correlation of rs492510 and susceptibility of NPC. Comparative expression level about CHK1 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissues were determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. And we made use of Dual‐Luciferase Reporter Assay to assess the transcriptional ability of CHK1 with different rs492510 allele. Adjusting multivariate logistic regression based on age, sex, body mass index, smoking, and drinking status showed that CHK1 rs492510 GA + GG genotype carriers presented prominent higher risk in NPC (odds ratio = 1.376, 95% confidence interval: 1.087‐1.742; P = .008). As a consequence, we revealed that CHK1 relative expression levels in NPC tissues was higher than rhinitis tissues. Besides, the expressions of CHK1 in rs492510 GA genotype carriers were higher compared with people in AA genotype. The G allele of rs492510 generated remarkable higher transcription activity of CHK1 vs A allele by luciferase reporter assay. Our study considered that single nucleotide polymorphism rs492510 could increase transcription activity of CHK1 with the functionality, contributing to the susceptibility of NPC.
Interference with SMO increases chemotherapy drug sensitivity of A2780/DDP cells by inhibiting the Hh/Gli signaling pathway
Authors: Ma Shihong , Liu Dan , Tan Wenhua , Du Botao , Liu Wei , Li Weijia , Jiao Yufei
Published: January 2020

Aberrant activation of the Hedgehog (Hh)/Gli pathway contributes to the tumorigenesis of several human cancers, including ovarian cancers. We investigated the function of SMO on cell growth, drug resistance, and invasive ability in A2780/DDP cells. Moreover, we also tested the levels of the downstream target genes of the Hh/Gli pathway in SMO short hairpin RNA (shRNA) lentivirus‐infected A2780/DDP cells. Western blot analysis results revealed that the Hh/Gli pathway was activated in cisplatin‐resistant A2780/DDP cells. After infection by SMO shRNA lentivirus, the colony formation rate and invasive rate of cisplatin‐resistant A2780/DDP cells were decreased. 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay showed that upon transfection with SMO shRNA, cell growth was decreased and drug sensitivity to cisplatin was upregulated. Moreover, interference with SMO decreased the expression of MMP‐2, MMP‐9, VEGF, and Snail in cisplatin‐resistant cells. Thus, the Hh/Gli signaling pathway was aberrantly activated in A2780/DDP cells. The colony formation rate and invasive rate were decreased in SMO shRNA lentivirus–infected A2780/DDP cells. All results showed that inhibiting Hh/Gli signaling may negatively regulate the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of cisplatin‐resistant A2780/DDP cells, as well as increase the sensitivity of A2780/DDP to the chemotherapeutic drug of cisplatin.
Nitrate leaching from suction cup data: Influence of method of drainage calculation and concentration interpolation
Authors: Vogeler Iris , Hansen Elly Møller , Nielsen Svend , Labouriau Rodrigo , Cichota Rogerio , Olesen Jørgen E. , Thomsen Ingrid Kaag
Published: January 2020

The use of suctions cups is a common practice for estimating nitrate (NO3–N) leaching under agricultural systems despite the various uncertainties associated with the approach. One major uncertainty is water flux, which is required for calculating NO3–N leaching loads from measured concentrations. Another problem is the interpolation of NO3–N concentrations between measurement days. We investigated how differences in water flux, obtained from two different models (EVACROP and APSIM), affect NO3–N leaching loads. The effect of interpolation of NO3–N concentrations based on days or drainage was also addressed. The models were set up according to a 2‐yr field experiment with spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L. Quinch) with different levels of N fertilization rates on a loamy soil at Flakkebjerg, Denmark. Due to small differences in measured NO3–N concentrations between sequential samplings, the method of interpolation did not significantly affect NO3–N leaching in the two periods investigated. Although there is no standard against which leaching losses from different approaches can be tested, results highlight that the modeling of water uptake as affected by N supply influences the amount of drainage and thus calculated NO3–N leaching. Therefore, for experiments with varying N fertilization levels, the APSIM model, which accounts for N nutrition on crop water use, is likely more accurate. For common fertilization rates, the simpler EVACROP seems appropriate. Thus, when using suction cup data for testing models or for evaluating mitigation options for nitrate leaching, the use of an appropriate model for estimating water fluxes is important.
A geographical cline in craniofacial morphology across populations of Mesoamerican lake‐dwelling fishes
Authors: Powers Amanda K. , Garita‐Alvarado Carlos A. , Rodiles‐Hernández Rocío , Berning Daniel J. , Gross Joshua B. , Ornelas‐García C. Patricia
Published: January 2020

Together, the complex geological history and climatic diversity of Mesoamerica create a rich source of biodiversity from which evolutionary processes can be studied. Here, we discuss highly divergent morphs of lake‐dwelling fishes distributed across Mexico and Central America, originally recognized as members of different genera (Astyanax and “Bramocharax”). Recent phylogenetic studies, however, suggest these morphs group within the same genus and readily hybridize. Despite genetic similarities, Bramocharax morphs exhibit stark differences in cranial shape and dentition. We investigated the evolution of several cranial traits that vary across morphs collected from four lakes in Mexico and Nicaragua and discovered an ecomorphological cline from northern to southern lakes. Northern populations of sympatric morphs exhibit a similar cranial shape and tooth morphology. Southern populations of Bramocharax morphs, however, showed a larger disparity in maxillary teeth, length and frequency of unicuspid teeth, an elongated snout, and a streamlined cranium compared to Astyanax morphs. This divergence of craniofacial morphology likely evolved in association with differences in trophic niches. We discuss the morphological differences across the four lake systems in terms of geological history and trophic dynamics. In summary, our study suggests that Bramocharax morphs are likely locally adapted members derived from independent Astyanax lineages, highlighting an interesting parallel evolutionary pattern within the Astyanax genus.
Resource availability and its effects on mother to embryo nutrient transfer in two viviparous fish species
Authors: Molina‐Moctezuma Alejandro , Hernández‐Rosas Ana L. , Zúñiga‐Vega José Jaime
Published: January 2020

Different hypotheses have been proposed to explain the adaptive value of matrotrophy, which is the postfertilization maternal provisioning to developing embryos. The Trexler–DeAngelis model proposes that matrotrophy provides fitness advantages when food abundance is high and availability is constant. If food availability is low or unpredictable, prefertilization maternal provisioning (lecithotrophy) should be favored over matrotrophy. In this study, we tested this model in two fish species from the family Poeciliidae, Poeciliopsis gracilis and P. infans, using field and laboratory data. In the field study, we explored the effects of population, season, and food abundance on the degree of matrotrophy. In P. infans, we found evidence that supports this model: In the population where food abundance decreased during the dry season, females reduced the amount of postfertilization provisioning and thus exhibited a more lecithotrophic strategy. In P. gracilis, we observed patterns that were partially consistent with this model: Food abundance decreased during the wet season in three populations of this species, but only in one of these populations, females exhibited less postfertilization nutrient transfer during this season. In the laboratory study, we tested the effects of constant, fluctuating, and low food availability on the relative amounts of pre‐ and postfertilization provisioning of P. infans. Our laboratory results also support the Trexler–DeAngelis model because both low and fluctuating food regimes promoted a more lecithotrophic strategy. Together, our findings indicate that the benefits of matrotrophy are more likely to occur when females have constant access to food sources.
Rhamnolipid Effects on Water Imbibition, Germination, and Initial Root and Shoot Growth of Soybeans
Authors: Sancheti Ashwin , Ju Lu‐Kwang
Published: January 2020

Rhamnolipid is a nontoxic and biodegradable bioproduct that offers sustainable solutions in agricultural, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and refinery applications. Its imminent uses in agriculture warrant thorough investigations of rhamnolipid interactions with plants. In this work, the effects of rhamnolipid on soybeans during imbibition and germination under different conditions were studied. Seed coat was determined to serve as the main barrier that regulates water imbibition, and rhamnolipid at 2 g L−1 was found to increase the imbibition rate to 16.1 (% dry bean weight)/h from 12.6% h−1 at 0 g L−1 rhamnolipid in intact soybeans for 0.5–5 h, when the soybean weight increased almost linearly due to the constant permeation rate through hydrated seed coat. Rhamnolipid, however, did not transport freely into beans; only about 50% of the rhamnolipid carried in the volume of water imbibed was absorbed by beans. Two different studies showed that absorbed rhamnolipid, from up to 1.5 g L−1 solutions, did not affect the germination percentages in wet cloths and soil pots. However, an additional study with constant (7‐day) exposure of germinating beans to more concentrated rhamnolipid solutions indicated a slight decrease of germination percentage, down to ~85% at 20 g L−1 rhamnolipid. Rhamnolipid had far more pronounced effects on root development. At high concentrations (5–20 g L−1), rhamnolipid severely stunted the root growth, causing reduced root and shoot weights and visible browning and damages of roots; however, low (0.5–1 g L−1) concentrations of rhamnolipid stimulated higher lateral root development while reducing the primary root extension, causing no change in the overall root or shoot weight. The findings indicated complex rhamnolipid interactions with soybeans and warranted further study while developing agricultural applications of rhamnolipid.
Climate and geographic adaptation drive latitudinal clines in biomass of a widespread saltmarsh plant in its native and introduced ranges
Authors: Liu Wenwen , Chen Xincong , Strong Donald R. , Pennings Steven C. , Kirwan Matthew L. , Chen Xiaolin , Zhang Yihui
Published: January 2020

Introduced plants provide a unique opportunity to examine how plants respond through plasticity and adaptation to changing climates. We compared plants of Spartina alterniflora from the native (United States, 27–43°N) and introduced (China, 19–40°N) ranges. In the field and greenhouse, aboveground productivity of Chinese plants was greater than that of North American plants. Aboveground biomass in the field declined with increasing latitude in the native range, a pattern that persisted in the greenhouse, indicating a genetic basis. Aboveground biomass in the field displayed hump‐shaped relationships with latitude in China, but this pattern disappeared in field and greenhouse common gardens, indicating phenotypic plasticity. Relationships in both geographic regions were explained by temperature, which is probably the underlying environmental factor affecting aboveground biomass. S. alterniflora has evolved greater biomass in China, but in the four decades since it was introduced, it has not yet evolved the genetic cline in biomass seen in its native range. By working at lower latitudes in the introduced range than have been sampled in the native range, we identified an optimum temperature in the introduced range above which aboveground productivity decreases.
Expanding construct validity of established and new PROMIS Pediatric measures for children and adolescents receiving cancer treatment
Authors: Reeve Bryce B. , McFatrich Molly , Mack Jennifer W. , Pinheiro Laura C. , Jacobs Shana S. , Baker Justin N. , Withycombe Janice S. , Lin Li , Mann Courtney M. , Villabroza Katie R. , Hinds Pamela S.
Published: January 2020

Background

The Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pediatric measures were designed to assess symptoms and functioning in children and adolescents. The study goal was to evaluate the validity and responsiveness of the PROMIS Pediatric measures in a diverse cohort of children with cancer.

Methods

Children (7‐18 years) from nine pediatric oncology hospitals completed surveys at 72 hours preceding treatment initiation (T1) and at follow‐up (T2) approximately 7 to 17 days later for chemotherapy, and 4+ weeks later for radiation. Children completed PROMIS Pediatric measures (Mobility, Pain Interference, Fatigue, Depressive Symptoms, Anxiety, Psychological Stress), Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale (MSAS), and global impressions of change (GIC) questions on their symptoms and functioning at T2 reflecting on T1. Parents completed the Lansky Play‐Performance Status (PPS) scale and medication list for their child.

Results

The children (n = 482) were average age 12.9 years, 46% female, 60% Caucasian, and had diverse cancers and treatments. There were moderate to strong correlations between PROMIS Pediatric and MSAS, supporting convergent validity. In support for known‐groups validity, the PROMIS Pediatric average scores were statistically different (P < 0.05) for most domains by PPS and if the child was on a medication (or not) for controlling a symptom. The PROMIS Pediatric measures were responsive over time in association with the GIC.

Conclusions

In a large, diverse sample of children and adolescents with cancer, there was strong evidence for the construct validity and responsiveness of the PROMIS Pediatric measures. This evidence supports PROMIS Pediatric measure use in pediatric oncology trials.
Improvement of interfacial adhesion and mechanical properties of sisal fiber‐reinforced poly(lactic acid) composites with added bisoxazoline
Authors: Zhanglin Lv , Hong wu Wu , Yunmeng Pei , Bi Lan
Published: January 2020

In order to improve interfacial adhesion between poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and sisal fibers (SFs), bifunctional monomer bisoxazoline (BO) was introduced into melt‐blending process of fibers reinforced PLA composites via in situ reactive interfacial compatibilization. The morphology of fibers and their reinforced PLA composites, thermal, and mechanical properties of the composites were studied. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) results confirmed that PLA was successfully grafted onto the surface of fiber. BO played a hinge‐like role between PLA molecular chains and SFs. The interfacial reaction and the microstructures of the SF‐reinforced PLA composites were investigated by thermal analysis. The cold crystallization temperature of the composites increased by 6.5°C with the addition of 0.6 wt% BO and 20 wt% SF as compared with the composites without BO. Microdebonding test further confirmed that interfacial shear strength of samples with BO increased by more than 30.7% in comparison with unmodified samples. For composites with 20 wt% SF addition, tensile strength and modulus increased by 34% and 10%, respectively, with 1 wt% BO addition. Flexural strength and modulus increased by 25% and 8%, respectively, with the addition of 1.2 wt% BO. Impact strength of 1 wt% BO‐modified composites was 5.1 MPa, which is 17% higher than that of the composites without BO.
Ablative Properties of Polyurethanes Reinforced with Organoclay
Authors: Bocchio Javier Andrés , Escobar Mariano Martín , Quagliano Amado Javier Carlos
Published: January 2020

Ablation resistance and mechanical properties of polyurethane‐based composites containing different amounts (up to 5 wt%) of organoclay were correlated with the morphological characterization. The crosslinking density of the polyurethane increased with the amount of organoclay. At low concentration (up to 1 wt%), the organoclay was well exfoliated, while at higher concentration, both exfoliated and intercalated platelets were found. A linear correlation was observed between the tensile test and the concentration of organoclay. Erosion velocity decreased 40% with the incorporation of 5% of organoclay. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:630–635, 2020. © 2020 Society of Plastics Engineers