bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of chronic rhinosinusitis on sleep: a controlled clinical study
Authors: Alt Jeremiah A. , Ramakrishnan Vijay R. , Platt Michael P. , Schlosser Rodney J. , Storck Tina , Soler Zachary M.
Published: October 2018

Background

Earlier studies have suggested that patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) report worse sleep quality than population norms. What remains unknown is whether these patients are actually experiencing measurable changes in objective sleep parameters. The goal of this study was to prospectively evaluate objective sleep measures in a cohort of patients with CRS.

Methods

A prospective, multi‐institutional, case‐control study was designed to compare patients with CRS to nondiseased controls. Sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (EpSS). Home sleep studies were administered across all subjects and a battery of objective sleep measurements were recorded using a portable sleep diagnostic device. Regression models were used to control for any factors that differed across groups.

Results

A total of 108 subjects were enrolled across 4 institutions, including 52 patients with CRS and 56 controls. Total PSQI scores were worse in patients with CRS when compared with controls (10.1 ± 4.3 vs 4.7 ± 2.5; p < 0.001). Similarly, daytime somnolence, as measured by the EpSS, was greater in patients with CRS (9.1 ± 5.3 vs 6.5 ± 3.7; p = 0.006). On home sleep studies, patients with CRS were found to have an increased number of awakenings during a night's sleep (8.6 ± 4.8 vs 6.3 ± 3.0; p = 0.004), lower average overnight oxygen saturation (93.2 ± 2.6% vs 94.3 ± 2.1%; p = 0.042), increased rapid eye movement sleep (REMS) latency (93.0 ± 67.1 vs 66.7 ± 35.3; p = 0.016), and spent a greater portion of the night snoring at >40 dB (24.7 ± 27.4% vs 14.6 ± 19.7%; p = 0.034). All differences except mean oxygen saturation remained significant after controlling for baseline differences.

Conclusion

Differences in both patient‐reported and objective sleep measures exist between patients with CRS and controls.
SNOT‐22 score patterns strongly negatively predict chronic rhinosinusitis in patients with headache
Authors: Wu Dawei , Gray Stacey T. , Holbrook Eric H. , BuSaba Nicolas Y. , Bleier Benjamin S.
Published: October 2018

Background

Differentiating the non‐sinogenic headache from chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) remains a significant clinical challenge due to the extensive overlap in symptoms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) score patterns in patients with confirmed non‐sinogenic headache in order to develop negative predictors of CRS.

Methods

Institutional Review Board (IRB)‐approved, retrospective review of patients diagnosed with CRS or non‐sinogenic headache defined as patients with a chief complaint of headache, facial pain, and facial pressure in the absence of both endoscopic and computed tomography (CT) evidence of inflammation. The optimal cutoff points of potential predictors of non‐sinogenic headache by SNOT‐22 score were quantified by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The negative predictive values (NPVs) for CRS were calculated in a discovery population and then validated in an independent population.

Results

A total of 724 (164 non‐sinogenic headache and 560 CRS) and 412 (88 non‐sinogenic headache and 324 CRS) patients were recruited in the discovery and validation populations, respectively. Domain 3 (Ear/facial) and domain 4 (Psychological dysfunction) were significantly higher in patients with non‐sinogenic headache as compared with CRS while domain 1 (Rhinologic) and domain 2 (Extranasal rhinologic) were significantly lower. The top 4 predictors of non‐sinogenic headache were the domain 3 (Ear/facial)/domain 1 (Rhinologic) ratio, item 12, domain 3 (Ear/facial), and (item 12 + item 10)/(item 4 + item 5) ratio, with areas under the ROC curve (AUCs) ranging from 0.637 to 0.720 by ROC curve. A domain 3 (Ear/facial)/domain 1 (Rhinologic) ratio over 0.66 performed as the best negative predictor of CRS with the highest NPVs of 0.880 and 0.889 in the discovery and validation populations, respectively.

Conclusion

Patients with non‐sinogenic headache have distinct SNOT‐22 score patterns compared with patients with CRS. A domain 3 (Ear/facial)/domain 1 (Rhinologic) ratio greater than 0.66 is a strong negative predictor of CRS, which can be used to aid in patient counseling and potentially limit the use of unnecessary sinonasal therapeutics.
B cell lymphoma‐2‐like protein‐12 association with T‐helper 2 inflammation in chronic rhinosinusitis with allergy
Authors: An Yun‐Fang , Wu Yong‐Jin , Zeng Xian‐Hai , Song Li‐Juan , Ma Fei , Liao Wen‐Jing , Liu Zhi‐Qiang , Yang Gui , Zhang Xiao‐Wen , Liu Zhi‐Gang , Zhao Chang‐Qing , Yang Ping‐Chang
Published: October 2018

Background

T‐helper 2 (Th2) polarization plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with accompanying nasal allergy. Recent studies indicate that B cell lymphoma‐2‐like protein‐12 (Bcl2L12) is associated with immune dysregulation. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the role of Bcl2L12 in the pathogenesis of Th2 polarization of CRS patients.

Methods

CRS patients with nasal allergy (CRSa) and without nasal allergy (CRSna) were recruited into this study. CD4+ T cells were isolated from the blood samples of human subjects. A variety of immunologic molecular strategies were used to assess Th2 polarization and Bcl2L12 expression.

Results

Twenty CRSa patients, 20 CRSna patients, and 20 healthy subjects were recruited into this study. High levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE), interleukin 4 (IL‐4), IL‐5, IL‐13, and Bcl2L12 were detected in nasal extracts of CRSa patients, but not in CRSna patients. The levels of Bcl2L12 were positively correlated with Th2 cytokines. CD4+ T cells from CRSa patients were prone to differentiate into Th2 cells, in which Bcl2L12 was required.

Conclusion

Bcl2L12 is positively correlated with Th2 cytokine levels in the nasal mucosa of CRSa patients. Bcl2L12 contributes to the Th2 polarization, which may be a novel therapeutic target in the treatment of CRSa.
Isomerism of the Aniline Trimer
Authors: Pérez Cristóbal , León Iker , Lesarri Alberto , Pate Brooks H. , Martínez Rodrigo , Millán Judith , Fernández José A.
Published: October 2018

Weaker intermolecular forces expand the isomerization alternatives for molecular aggregation, as observed for the prototype models of the aniline trimer (An3) and the monohydrated aniline dimer (An2‐W) when compared to the phenol trimer. In this experiment the aniline clusters were generated in a jet‐cooled expansion and probed using broadband (chirped‐pulsed) microwave spectroscopy. Three isomers of the aniline trimer and two isomers of the hydrated dimer were detected and characterized in the rotational spectrum. In the homotrimer the weak N−H⋅⋅⋅N hydrogen bonds are assisted by subtle combinations of N−H⋅⋅⋅π and C−H⋅⋅⋅π interactions, producing several competing low‐lying ring species in the gas phase. One of the aniline trimers is a symmetric top, topologically equivalent to the only observed phenol trimer. Conversely, addition of a water molecule to the aniline dimer introduces a leading O−H⋅⋅⋅N interaction, making water to behave as dominant hydrogen‐bond pivot between the two aniline molecules. This combination of weak intermolecular interactions critically tests the performance of dispersion‐corrected or parametrized density‐functional methods. Evaluation of the B3LYP‐D3(BJ) and M06‐2X methods revealed deficiencies of the Truhlar functional to reproduce the experimental rotational data.
Preparation and characterization of magnetic hollow Fe3O4/P(GMA‐EGDMA)‐SO3H/Au‐PPy recyclable catalyst for catalytic reduction of 4‐nitrophenol
Authors: Ma Mingliang , Yang Yuying , Feng Renjun , Jia Li , Chen Guopeng , Li Wenting , Lyu Ping
Published: October 2018

A highly effective and stable hollow Fe3O4/P(GMA‐EGDMA)‐SO3H/Au‐PPy catalyst was prepared. Monodisperse hollow Fe3O4 microspheres were synthesized using a hydrothermal method. As the catalyst support, magnetic hollow Fe3O4/P(GMA‐EGDMA) microspheres with core–shell structure were prepared by distillation precipitation polymerization. Then sulfonic acid groups (─SO3H) were introduced into the surface of the support by surface modification. Au3+ could be adsorbed by coordination with ─SO3H and underwent redox reactions with added pyrrole monomers. Finally, an Au–polypyrrole (PPy) layer was formed on the surface of the Fe3O4/P(GMA‐EGDMA)‐SO3H microspheres. The synthesized material was characterized using various techniques. Results indicated that the as‐prepared hollow Fe3O4/P(GMA‐EGDMA)‐SO3H/Au‐PPy catalyst had excellent catalytic activity and exhibited reusability for the reduction reaction of 4‐nitrophenol. In addition, the catalyst was reusable for at least ten successive cycles.
Synthesis, crystal structure and NLO study of two new versatile Ca (II) complexes
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad , Bhatti Moazzam H. , Zierkiewicz Wiktor , Bieńko Dariusz , Yunus Uzma , Shah Syed Raza , Mehmood Mazhar , Flörke Ulrich
Published: October 2018

Two new versatile supramolecular calcium complexes [Ca2(NPG)4(1,10 phen)2] (1) and [Ca2(NPß‐ala)4(1,10 phen)2] (2) have been synthesized by the addition of 1,10‐phenanthroline to the solution of already prepared corresponding calcium N‐phthaloylglycinate and calcium N‐phthaloyl‐β‐alaninate complexes, which were prepared from the reaction of calcium oxide with N‐phthaloylglycine (NPG) and N‐phthaloyl‐β‐alanine (NPß‐ala), respectively. The complexes were characterized by single X‐ray diffraction method. The spectroscopic and electronic properties were investigated by utilizing Fourier transform‐infrared and UV–Vis spectroscopic techniques. The theoretical calculations were performed by using B3LYP‐D3 method (standard hybrid density functional B3LYP method with dispersion correction D3) to find the coherent relationship between experimental and theoretical findings for structural, spectroscopic and electronic properties. The natural bond orbital analysis was performed for both complexes to study charge transfer. The solid state photoluminescence for both Ca complexes was observed experimentally. The nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of both complexes have been analyzed theoretically, and it was found that both Ca complexes showed excellent NLO prospective potential as compared with the commercial NLO active materials like para‐nitrotoluene (PNA) and urea. Further, it was concluded that 2 showed much more increase in first static hyperpolarizabilty as compared with 1.
Epoxy‐functionalized polysiloxane reinforced epoxy resin for cryogenic application
Authors: Li Shichao , Wang Hongyu , Liu Minjing , Peng Cong , Wu Zhanjun
Published: October 2018

The poor cryogenic mechanical properties of epoxy resins restrict their extensive application in cryogenic engineering fields. In this study, a newly synthesized epoxy‐functionalized polysiloxane (PSE) is used to improve the cryogenic mechanical properties of bisphenol‐F epoxy resin. The Fourier transform infrared spectra and nuclear magnetic resonance confirm the formation of epoxy‐functionalized –Si–O–Si– molecular chain. The surface free energy test results show that the PSE has a better compatibility with epoxy resin. The mechanical test results show that the cryogenic tensile strength, failure strain, fracture toughness, and impact strength of epoxy resin is improved significantly by adding the suitable amounts of PSE. Compared to the neat epoxy resin, the maximum tensile strength (196.92 MPa, an improvement of 11.2%), failure strain (2.97%, an improvement of 33.8%), fracture toughness (3.05 MPa·m1/2, an improvement of 30.7%) and impact strength (40.55 kJ m−2, an improvement of 14.8%) at cryogenic temperature (90 K) is obtained by incorporating 10 wt % PSE into the neat epoxy resin. Moreover, the results also indicated that the tensile strength, Young's modulus, and fracture toughness of epoxy resin with the same PSE content at 90 K are higher than that at room temperature (RT). © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 46930.
Thermal stability and thermal oxidation kinetics of PU/CA‐MMT composites
Authors: Zhao Y. , Mo H. , Jiang X. , Han B. , Feng F. , Wang D. , Fu L. , He L. , Zhang J. , Shen J.
Published: October 2018

In this work, we prepared three composites polyurethane (PU)/chlorhexidine acetate (CA), PU/montmorillonite (MMT), and PU/CA‐MMT, and investigated their kinetics of thermal degradation at different heating rates at atmosphere. These materials had good thermal stability and aging resistance. The thermal stability of PU/CA (Tonset: 237.3°C) was not obviously enhanced by the addition of only CA when compared with that of PU (Tonset: 232.3°C), while the thermal stability of PU/MMT (Tonset: 273.4°C) was considerably enhanced by the addition of MMT due to the high thermal stability of MMT. CA‐MMT filler was dispersed and exfoliated in PU more easily than CA or MMT in PU, so the composite PU/CA‐MMT possessed the best thermal stability (Tonset: 285.8°C). In addition, PU/CA‐MMT also had the best resistance to bacterial adhesion and antibacterial ability. The analysis with Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa method showed that the activation energy of thermal oxidation of PU increased when CA‐MMT was added and thus its anti‐aging ability was enhanced, and the thermal oxidation of these four materials was first‐order reaction. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47002.
Long‐term‐durable anti‐icing superhydrophobic composite coatings
Authors: Rajiv S. , Kumaran S. , Sathish M.
Published: October 2018

We prepared carbon‐based superhydrophobic composite coatings through a quick technique, merging multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and carbon nanofibers (CNFs) to obtain hierarchical nanostructures on fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets; this was followed by supercritical fluid (SCF) processing and physical mixing (PM). The prepared SCF–MWCNT–CNF and PM–MWCNT–CNF composite coatings showed high water contact angles of 171.6 and 160°. The surface morphologies of the composite coatings revealed a lot of even nanostructures and folding at high magnifications. A high number of CNFs were added to the MWCNTs to initiate different nanoroughnesses in the composite coatings. The as‐prepared superhydrophobic composite coatings showed excellent anti‐icing properties, as indicated by the supercooled water droplet (‐20°C) test under environmental conditions. Also, the surface of the SCF–MWCNT–CNF superhydrophobic composite coating showed excellent antifouling properties. We studied the surface wettability increasing different temperatures (30–180°C) in the SCF–MWCNT–CNF composite; this exposed the fact that the FRP sheets were thermally stable up to 100°C, and a while later, they changed from a superhydrophobic state to a superhydrophilic state at 180°C. This study revealed an economically workable method for the preparation of MWCNT–CNF composites with SCF techniques. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47059.
Chemically crosslinked gelatin hydrogels as scaffolding materials for adipose tissue engineering
Authors: Contessi Negrini N. , Tarsini P. , Tanzi M. C. , Farè S.
Published: October 2018

The design of scaffolding materials that mimic the properties of the target tissue to be regenerated is a mandatory requirement to engineer a successful scaffold; however, the heterogeneous properties of adipose tissue (AT), strictly dependent on the AT depot, are often underestimated when engineering AT scaffolds. Moreover, a scaffolding material with versatile properties, suitable for the regeneration of different AT depots, is currently missing. Chemically crosslinked gelatin hydrogels are here prepared, and their properties tuned by varying gelatin concentration and reaction stoichiometry to obtain hydrogels suitable for AT regeneration. All hydrogel formulations are stable in water at 37 °C, showing swelling behavior dependent on synthesis parameters. The mechanical compressive response mimics the viscoelastic response typical of native AT, with elastic modulus values covering the range of breast and heel pad AT. The rheological properties vary among the hydrogel formulations, showing a typical shear thinning response, comparable to other AT scaffolds described in literature. In vitro cytotoxicity tests using 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes show no cytotoxic effects up to 7 days. 3T3‐L1 cells seeded on the hydrogels show good adhesion, proliferation, and adipogenic differentiation, confirmed by an increase in peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma gene expression and lipid droplets accumulation observed by Oil Red O staining. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47104.
Novel cinnamic acid–tryptamine hybrids as potent butyrylcholinesterase inhibitors: Synthesis, biological evaluation, and docking study
Authors: Ghafary Shahrzad , Najafi Zahra , Mohammadi‐Khanaposhtani Maryam , Nadri Hamid , Edraki Najmeh , Ayashi Neda , Larijani Bagher , Amini Mohsen , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: October 2018

A novel series of cinnamic acid–tryptamine hybrids was designed, synthesized, and evaluated as cholinesterase inhibitors. Anticholinesterase assays showed that all of the synthesized compounds displayed a clearly selective inhibition of butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), but only a moderate inhibitory effect toward acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was detected. Among these cinnamic acid–tryptamine hybrids, compound 7d was found to be the most potent inhibitor of BChE with an IC50 value of 0.55 ± 0.04 μM. This compound showed a 14‐fold higher inhibitory potency than the standard drug donepezil (IC50 = 7.79 ± 0.81 μM) and inhibited BChE through a mixed‐type inhibition mode. Moreover, a docking study revealed that compound 7d binds to both the catalytic anionic site (CAS) and the peripheral anionic site (PAS) of BChE. Also, compound 7d was evaluated against β‐secretase, which exhibited low activity (inhibition percentage: 38%).
Pd0‐Catalyzed Four‐Component Reaction of Aryl Halide, CO, N‐Tosylhydrazone, and Amine
Authors: Liu Yiyang , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Songnan , Zhang Yan , Wang Jianbo , Zhang Zhenhua
Published: October 2018

A Pd0‐catalyzed four‐component cascade reaction of an aryl halide, CO, an N‐tosylhydrazone, and an amine affording α‐amino ketone has been developed. This reaction involves a sequential carbonylation, metal carbene migratory insertion, and amination. Control experiments and DFT calculations further reveal the reaction sequence and chemoselectivity of individual components in this cascade process.
Physical models can provide superior learning opportunities beyond the benefits of active engagements
Authors: Newman Dina L. , Stefkovich Megan , Clasen Catherine , Franzen Margaret A. , Wright L. Kate
Published: October 2018

The essence of molecular biology education lies in understanding of gene expression, with subtopics including the central dogma processes, such as transcription and translation. While these concepts are core to the discipline, they are also notoriously difficult for students to learn, probably because they cannot be directly observed. While nearly all active learning strategies have been shown to improve learning compared with passive lectures, little has been done to compare different types of active learning. We hypothesized that physical models of central dogma processes would be especially helpful for learning, because they provide a resource that students can see, touch, and manipulate while trying to build their knowledge. For students enrolled in an entirely active‐learning‐based Cell & Molecular Biology course, we examined whether model‐based activities were more effective than non‐model based activities. To test their understanding at the beginning and end of the semester, we employed the multiple‐select Central Dogma Concept Inventory (CDCI). Each student acted as their own control, as all students engaged in all lessons yet some questions related to model‐based activities and some related to clicker questions, group problem‐solving, and other non‐model‐based activities. While all students demonstrated learning gains on both types of question, they showed much higher learning gains on model‐based questions. Examining their selected answers in detail showed that while higher performing students were prompted to refine their already‐good mental models to be even better, lower performing students were able to construct new knowledge that was much more consistent with an expert's understanding. © 2018 The Authors. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology., 46(5):435–444, 2018.
Environmental sustainability and financial performance of the small‐scale tea processors in Kenya
Authors: Gatimbu Karambu Kiende , Ogada Maurice Juma , Budambula Nancy , Kariuki Samuel
Published: October 2018

In the light of global warming, natural resource depletion and increasing stakeholder demand for environmental sustainability; corporate entities are compelled to reexamine their impact on the biophysical environment. Although the debate on how investment in environmental sustainability impacts on the corporates themselves is inconclusive, it is clear that combating negative environmental impacts can be very expensive and may substantially reduce the profits. Thus, this study sought to establish the relationship between environmental efficiency and profitability of small‐scale tea processors in Kenya. Using a random effects model on a 5‐year panel data (2012–2016) on all the 54 small‐scale tea processors in Kenya, the study found a negative correlation between environmental efficiency and profitability. The tea processors, whose environmental efficiency score was above 80%, recorded a paltry profitability of not more than 1.23%. The policy implication is that the tea processors may require motivation to take up environment conserving innovations and technologies in their production processes. These motivations could take the form of government subsidies or tax waivers on such innovations and technologies.
Volatile fatty acids production from protease pretreated Chlorella biomass via anaerobic digestion
Authors: Magdalena Jose Antonio , Tomás‐Pejó Elia , Ballesteros Mercedes , González‐Fernandez Cristina
Published: October 2018

Volatile fatty acids (VFAs) produced via anaerobic digestion (AD) are regarded as a low cost production process of building blocks of interest for the chemical industry. In this study, VFAs and methane production were assessed in batch reactors at different temperature ranges (psychrophilic 25°C, mesophilic 35°C, thermophilic 50°C) and different pH values (5.5 and 7.5) using protease pretreated Chlorella sp. biomass as substrate. Acetic acid and propionic acid were the most abundant products (up to 73% of the total VFAs) during the first days independently of the conditions. VFAs concentration decreased over time as methane was produced after a lag phase of 7–10 days. Results showed that best conditions for VFAs production were mesophilic temperature ranges (35°C) at neutral initial pH values (7.5), and psychrophilic temperature ranges (25°C) at low initial pH values (5.5) which resulted in a conversion of the initial COD into VFAs of 48%, respectively. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 34:1363–1369, 2018
Separation of α‐ketoglutaric acid and pyruvic acid from the culture broth of Yarrowia lipolytica WSH‐Z06 by chromatographic methods
Authors: Peng Xiaoyu , Zeng Weizhu , Xu Sha , Zha Jian , Zhou Jingwen , Xu Guoqiang
Published: October 2018

Both α‐ketoglutaric acid (KGA) and pyruvic acid (PYR) are important keto acids. Efficient co‐production of KGA and PYR has been achieved in our previous work, and could significantly decrease the cost of fermentation production. KGA and PYR have similar physical and chemical properties. Hence, finding a way to separate the two keto acids efficiently has become a key challenge. In this study, different chromatographic methods have been investigated, including ion‐exchange chromatography, aluminum oxide chromatography and silica gel chromatography. The results show that the two keto acids can be well separated with silica gel chromatography, whereas ion‐exchange chromatography and aluminum oxide chromatography could not separate them. Using the pretreated fermentation broth of Yarrowia lipolytica WSH‐Z06, the purity and yield of KGA/PYR reached 98.7%/99.1% and 86.7%/70.9%, respectively, with an optimized silica gel chromatography‐based procedure. This study provides an efficient method for separating KGA and PYR from fermentation broth, which might be applied on an industrial scale and significantly decrease the cost of biotechnological production of keto acids. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 34:1370–1379, 2018
Liquid lipase‐catalyzed hydrolysis of gac oil for fatty acid production: Optimization using response surface methodology
Authors: Su Chia‐Hung , Nguyen Hoang Chinh , Nguyen My Linh , Tran Phung Thanh , Wang Fu‐Ming , Guan Yu‐Lin
Published: October 2018

Fatty acids are valuable products because they have wide industrial applications in the manufacture of detergents, cosmetics, food, and various biomedical applications. In enzyme‐catalyzed hydrolysis, the use of immobilized lipase results in high production cost. To address this problem, Eversa Transform lipase, a new and low‐cost liquid lipase formulation, was used for the first time in oil hydrolysis with gac oil as a triglyceride source in this study. Response surface methodology was employed to optimize the reaction conditions and establish a reliable mathematical model for predicting hydrolysis yield. A maximal yield of 94.16% was obtained at a water‐to‐oil molar ratio of 12.79:1, reaction temperature of 38.9 °C, enzyme loading of 13.88%, and reaction time of 8.41 h. Under this optimal reaction condition, Eversa Transform lipase could be reused for up to eight cycles without significant loss in enzyme activity. This study indicates that the use of liquid Eversa Transform lipase in enzyme‐catalyzed oil hydrolysis could be a promising and cheap method of fatty acid production. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2018
Effects of Cutting the Sacrospinous and Sacrotuberous Ligaments
Authors: Hammer Niels , Höch Andreas , Klima Stefan , Le Joncour Jean‐Baptiste , Rouquette Corentin , Ramezani Maziar
Published: October 2018

The sacrospinous (SS) and sacrotuberous (ST) ligaments form a complex at the posterior pelvis, with an assumed role as functional stabilizers. Experimental and clinical research has yielded controversial results regarding their function, both proving and disproving their role as pelvic stabilizers. These findings have implications for strategies for treating pelvic injury and pain syndromes. The aim of the present simulation study was to assess the influence of altered ligament function on pelvis motion. A finite elements computer model was used. The two‐leg stance was simulated, with the load of body weight applied via the fifth lumbar vertebra and both femora, allowing for nutation of the sacroiliac joint. The in‐silico kinematics were validated with in‐vitro experiments using the same scenario of load application following SS and ST transection in six human cadavers. Modeling of partial or complete ligament failure caused significant increases in pelvis motion. This effect was most pronounced if the SS and ST were affected with 164% and 182%, followed by the sacroiliac and iliolumbar ligaments with 123% and 147%, and the pubic ligaments with 113% and 119%, for partial and complete disruption, respectively. Simultaneous ligament transection multiplied the effects on pelvis motion by up to 490%. Unilateral ligament injury altered the motion at the pelvis contralaterally. The experiments presented here provide strong evidence for the stabilizing role of the SS and ST. A fortiori, the instability resulting from partial or complete SS and ST injury merits consideration in treatment strategies involving these ligaments as important stabilizers. Clin. Anat. 32:231–237, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Does stigma always have negative consequences?
Authors: Verma Sunil K. , Bharti Pankaj , Singh Tushar
Published: October 2018

The aim of this study was to explore and understand the phenomenon of stigmatization and the socio‐cultural processes where a stigmatized group may enjoy the ongoing process of stigmatization against them. Generally, research works on “stigma” show that stigmas have negative effects on the stigmatized group. The stigmatized groups often claim that people are prejudiced against them, and therefore, they face discrimination, alienation, and comparatively reduced well‐being. Besides this, stigmatized groups also face exclusion and marginalization especially with respect to poverty. In the Indian cultural context, stigma is attached to certain notions and beliefs that are used by stigmatized groups to earn their livelihood. These groups affirm such statuses that accredit them as socially and/or economically marginalized groups and use the associated social beliefs for their advantage. It can, therefore, be said that they feel pride in accepting the stigma associated with their identities. To understand these socio‐psychological processes, three stigmatized groups, namely, eunuchs, beggars, and reserved category students were sampled, and data was collected using ethnography. Upon analysing the collected data, results revealed that eunuchs and beggars use social beliefs as a means for earning a livelihood whereas reserved category students freely utilize their caste identity for privileges without hesitation in order to get good jobs, enrol in education, and/or improve their living conditions. Therefore, it can be concluded that stigma does not necessarily always have negative consequences but can also help the stigmatized group in improving their overall quality of life.
Two weeks of high‐fat feeding disturb lipid and cholesterol molecular markers
Authors: Magri‐Tomaz L. , Melbouci L. , Mercier J. , Ou Ya , Auclair N. , Lira F. S. , Lavoie J‐M. , St‐Pierre D. H.
Published: October 2018

Metabolic disorders are often associated with liver steatosis and increased plasma cholesterol levels. However, the link between excessive lipid accumulation and impairments in cholesterol metabolism remains uninvestigated in the liver. Short term of high‐fat diet (HFD) was previously shown to promote excessive lipid accumulation prior to the development of metabolic disorders. The present study intended to characterize how increases in liver fat alter the expression of several key regulators of hepatic cholesterol metabolism in response to a short‐term HFD. Wistar rats were randomly submitted either to HFD (n = 8) or a regular chow diet (n = 8) for 14 days. Increases in triglycerides were highly significant (P < 0.01) in the liver but marginal in the plasma of HFD rats. In contrast, the HFD resulted in higher (P < 0.01) cholesterol levels in plasma but not in liver samples. Gene expression of key markers involved in cholesterol uptake (LDL particles) including low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein‐1 (LRP‐1) and protein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) along with ATP‐binding cassette, superfamily G, member 5 (ABCG5) involved in cholesterol exportation via bile ducts was found to be higher (P < 0.05) in response to the HFD. In contrast, expression of 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐CoA reductase (HMGCR), involved in cholesterol synthesis, was downregulated in the liver. The data support the concept that excessive accumulation of lipids promptly alters the expression of key genes regulating cholesterol metabolism in the liver. On a clinical point of view, this indicates that increases in plasma cholesterol occur after a short‐term HFD.
Adjusting Aggregation Modes and Photophysical and Photovoltaic Properties of Diketopyrrolopyrrole‐Based Small Molecules by Introducing B←N Bonds
Authors: Pang Shuting , Más‐Montoya Miriam , Xiao Manjun , Duan Chunhui , Wang Zhenfeng , Liu Xi , Janssen René A. J. , Yu Gang , Huang Fei , Cao Yong
Published: October 2018

The packing mode of small‐molecular semiconductors in thin films is an important factor that controls the performance of their optoelectronic devices. Designing and changing the packing mode by molecular engineering is challenging. Three structurally related diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP)‐based compounds were synthesized to study the effect of replacing C−C bonds by isoelectronic dipolar B←N bonds. By replacing one of the bridging C−C bonds on the peripheral fluorene units of the DPP molecules by a coordinative B←N bond and changing the B←N bond orientation, the optical absorption, fluorescence, and excited‐state lifetime of the compounds can be tuned. The substitution alters the preferential aggregation of the molecules in the solid state from H‐type (for C−C) to J‐type (for B←N). Introducing B←N bonds thus provides a subtle way of controlling the packing mode. The photovoltaic properties of the compounds were evaluated in bulk heterojunctions with a fullerene acceptor and showed moderate performance as a consequence of suboptimal morphologies, bimolecular recombination, and triplet‐state formation.
Small Changes With Big Consequences: Swapping Two Atoms In Side Chains Changes Phenylene‐Ethynylene Packing And Fluorescence
Authors: Sharber Seth A. , Thomas Samuel W.
Published: October 2018

Engineering the properties of conjugated materials in the solid state is an unsolved, ongoing challenge important to fundamental understanding of how non‐covalent interactions dictate packing and key properties, as well as the development of technologies based in organic optoelectronics. The most common design paradigm of such materials divide them into a “main chain” with extended conjugation, the chemical structure of which determines optoelectronic properties, and “side chains” not conjugated to the backbone, which provide solubility when they are long alkyl chains. This paper describes comparisons between phenylene‐ethynylene molecules in which slight changes to the structure of “side chains”—swapping hydrogen and fluorine atomic position on an aromatic ring—results in unexpectedly large changes in the solid‐state optical properties. In a pair of anisyl‐terminated three‐ring phenylene‐ethynylenes, switching the side chain arenes of benzyl esters from 2,4,6‐trifluoro to 2,3,6‐trifluoro results in a shift in fluorescence emission spectra of over 100 nm, as well as the opposite direction of force‐induced shifting of emission. Through a combination X‐ray crystal structures, electronic structure calculations, and comparisons with other derivatives, we describe how the 2,4,6‐trifluorinated side chains yield cofacial fluoroarene‐arene stacking interactions that twist the PE backbone out of conjugation, while the 2,3,6‐trifluoro side chains do not stack, instead yielding more coplanar PE backbones that form intermolecular aggregates. Overall, this work demonstrates how slight modifications to parts of conjugated materials normally considered ancillary to optoelectronic properties can determine their solid‐state properties, epitomizing the challenge of rational design but at the same time offering opportunities for materials discovery and improved understanding of non‐covalent interactions.
Stereoselective Sensing of l‐ and d‐Amino Acids: Development of a Fluorescence‐Array Based on Readily Available Chiral Phosphoric Acids
Authors: Octa‐Smolin Frescilia , Niemeyer Jochen
Published: October 2018

The identification of structurally related analytes has become possible using sensor arrays, based on sets of cross‐reactive chemosensors. This work reports the use of readily available chiral phosphoric acids for the array‐based, chemo‐ and stereoselective sensing of l‐ and d‐amino acids. Six bis‐ and trisphosphoric acids were used in combination with Ni2+ and Eu3+, resulting in a set of twelve chiral fluorescent chemosensors. This sensor‐array enables a correct classification of l‐amino acids with 100 % accuracy, while the differentiation between l‐ and d‐amino acids can be achieved with 94 % accuracy. In addition, the systematic analysis of sensor contributions has allowed the use of a reduced set of seven sensors for the classification of l‐amino acids, thus drastically reducing the amount of necessary measurements.
Characteristics of zeolite‐modified NiMo/Al2O3 catalysts and their hydrotreating performance for light cycled oil
Authors: Hu Erfeng , Yao Zonglu , Zhao Lixin , Wu Juan , Meng Haibo , Huo Lili , Li Yuan
Published: October 2018

The performance of a widely used commercial catalyst, NiMo/Al2O3, might be not adequate to meet more stringent regulations for the fuel products; therefore, a lot of research has been devoted to improving its performance. In this study, three different modified zeolites were added in NiMo/Al2O3 catalyst to investigate the selective improvement of the hydrodesulphurization (HDS) and hydrodenitrification (HDN) activity. The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption, pyridine‐infrared spectroscopy (IR), H2‐temperature program reduction (H2‐TPR), x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and their catalytic activity was tested in the HDS and HDN of light cycle oil (LCO). Characterization results revealed that the catalyst surface area increased but the pore volume and average pore size decreased by adding modified zeolite. The activity evaluation result showed that the NiMo/MB catalyst had the highest activity and meanwhile decreased the final boiling point from 520.8 to 457 °C. The sulphur decreased by 97.65 % from 13 000 to 305 ppm and the nitrogen reduced by 99.74 % from 496 to 1.29 ppm in LCO hydrotreating, notably for NiMo/MB catalyst. The acid properties indicated that zeolite brought some strong and ultra‐strong acidic sites, which might favour a cracking reaction and reduce the liquid recovery yield. However, only 1.99 and 1.34 wt% of the LCO were cracked over the zeolite beta and zeolite modified beta respectively, indicating a slight cracking process. These results suggest that an added modified beta not only raised the quality of LCO distillation but also avoided the overcracking of hydrocarbons.
Evaluation of cystatin C and neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin as predictors of mortality in patients undergoing percutaneous mitral valve repair (MitraClip)
Authors: Dörr Oliver , Walther Claudia , Liebetrau Christoph , Keller Till , Ortlieb Regine M. , Boeder Niklas , Bauer Pascal , Möllmann Helge , Gaede Luise , Troidl Christian , Voss Sandra , Bauer Timm , Hamm Christian W. , Nef Holger
Published: October 2018

Background

Compromised renal function is a major risk factor that is strongly associated with poor outcome in patients with mitral regurgitation (MR) and heart failure. Cystatin C, a cysteine protease inhibitor, has been used as a specific and sensitive biomarker of renal function. Neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) is another sensitive biomarker that specifically indicates functional and structural kidney damage. The aim of the present study was to determine the predictive value of serum cystatin C and urinary NGAL as indicators of mortality in patients undergoing percutaneous mitral valve repair (PMVR).

Methods

A total of 120 consecutive patients (age: 77.3 years [±11.2]) undergoing PMVR using the MitraClip system were included in this study. Venous blood and urinary samples were collected for biomarker analysis prior to PMVR. Physiological parameters, medication use, safety events, and all‐cause mortality were assessed 12 months after the procedure.

Results

Twelve months after PMVR, there was a significant reduction in the severity of MR (P < 0.001), and an improvement in the New York Heart Association class (P < 0.01) was documented. Baseline levels of serum cystatin C (nonsurvivors: 2.4 mg/L [interquartile, IQR: 1.7;3.1] vs survivors: 1.7 mg/L [IQR: 1,3;2.1], P < 0.001) and urinary NGAL (nonsurvivors: 242.0 ng/mL [IQR: 154.5;281.5] vs survivors: 132.0 ng/mL [IQR:107.0;177.3], P < 0.001) were significantly higher in patients who died during the 12‐month follow‐up period.

Conclusion

Cystatin C and urinary NGAL were found to be predictors of long‐term mortality in high‐risk patients undergoing PMVR. Thus, cystatin C and NGAL assessment may be helpful in risk stratification in patients undergoing PMVR.
Neprilysin levels at the acute phase of ST‐elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Bernelin Hugo , Mewton Nathan , Si‐Mohamed Salim , Croisille Pierre , Rioufol Gilles , Bonnefoy‐Cudraz Eric , Douek Philippe , Dufay Nathalie , Amaz Camille , Jossan Claire , Ovize Michel , Bochaton Thomas
Published: October 2018

Background

Several preliminary analyses suggested an association between neprilysin (NEP) levels and myocardial infarction.

Hypothesis

The objective was to assess whether NEP plasma levels following reperfusion might be a surrogate for infarct size (IS) or predict adverse outcomes in acute ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients.

Methods

We measured NEP levels in a prospective cohort of 203 patients with STEMI referred for primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Circulating soluble NEP was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay at admission (t0) and 4 hours later (t4) following reperfusion and on 7 times points (t0, t4, t12, t24, t48, day 7 and day 30) in a subset of 21 patients. IS and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were measured at 1 month by cardiac magnetic resonance. Adverse cardiovascular outcomes were collected at 12‐month follow‐up.

Results

Median t0 and t4 NEP levels in 203 patients were respectively 88.3 pg/mL (interquartile range [IQR] [14; 375.4]) and 101.5 pg/mL (IQR [18.5; 423.8]). These levels remained unchanged over 1 month (P = 0.70). NEP levels did not correlate significantly with IS (P = 0.51) or LVEF (P = 0.34). There was no correlation between NEP and troponin, creatine kinase and interleukin‐6 levels at h0 and h4. NEP levels above the median were not associated with adverse outcomes at follow‐up (hazard ratio = 1.28, 95% confidence interval [0.69; 2.37]; P = 0.42).

Conclusions

NEP serum levels were widely distributed and did not change significantly in the first hours and 1‐month period following reperfusion in STEMI patients. There was no significant relationship with markers of infarct size and inflammation, and 1‐year adverse outcomes.
Evaluation of Sydnone‐Based Analogues of Combretastatin A‐4 Phosphate (CA4P) as Vascular Disrupting Agents for Use in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Brown Andrew W. , Holmes Toby , Fisher Matthew , Tozer Gillian M. , Harrity Joseph P. A. , Kanthou Chryso
Published: October 2018

The combretastatins have attracted significant interest as small‐molecule therapies for cancer due to their ability to function as vascular disrupting agents. We have successfully prepared a range of combretastatin analogues that are based on a novel sydnone heterocycle core, and their potential as tubulin binders has been assessed in vitro and in vivo. The most potent candidate was found to disrupt microtubules and affect cellular morphology at sub‐micromolar levels. Moreover, it was found to bind reversibly to tubulin and significantly increase endothelial cell monolayer permeability, in a similar manner to combretastatin A4. Surprisingly, the compound did not exhibit efficacy in vivo, possibly due to rapid metabolism.
Chemoprevention agents for melanoma: A path forward into phase 3 clinical trials
Authors: Jeter Joanne M. , Bowles Tawnya L. , Curiel‐Lewandrowski Clara , Swetter Susan M. , Filipp Fabian V. , Abdel‐Malek Zalfa A. , Geskin Larisa J. , Brewer Jerry D. , Arbiser Jack L. , Gershenwald Jeffrey E. , Chu Emily Y. , Kirkwood John M. , Box Neil F. , Funchain Pauline , Fisher David E. , Kendra Kari L. , Marghoob Ashfaq A. , Chen Suephy C. , Ming Michael E. , Albertini Mark R. , Vetto John T. , Margolin Kim A. , Pagoto Sherry L. , Hay Jennifer L. , Grossman Douglas , Ellis Darrel L. , Kashani‐Sabet Mohammed , Mangold Aaron R. , Markovic Svetomir N. , Nelson Kelly C. , Powers Jennifer G. , Robinson June K. , Sahni Debjani , Sekulic Aleksandar , Sondak Vernon K. , Wei Maria L. , Zager Jonathan S. , Dellavalle Robert P. , Thompson John A. , Weinstock Martin A. , Leachman Sancy A. , Cassidy Pamela B.
Published: October 2018

Recent progress in the treatment of advanced melanoma has led to unprecedented improvements in overall survival and, as these new melanoma treatments have been developed and deployed in the clinic, much has been learned about the natural history of the disease. Now is the time to apply that knowledge toward the design and clinical evaluation of new chemoprevention agents. Melanoma chemoprevention has the potential to reduce dramatically both the morbidity and the high costs associated with treating patients who have metastatic disease. In this work, scientific and clinical melanoma experts from the national Melanoma Prevention Working Group, composed of National Cancer Trials Network investigators, discuss research aimed at discovering and developing (or repurposing) drugs and natural products for the prevention of melanoma and propose an updated pipeline for translating the most promising agents into the clinic. The mechanism of action, preclinical data, epidemiological evidence, and results from available clinical trials are discussed for each class of compounds. Selected keratinocyte carcinoma chemoprevention studies also are considered, and a rationale for their inclusion is presented. These data are summarized in a table that lists the type and level of evidence available for each class of agents. Also included in the discussion is an assessment of additional research necessary and the likelihood that a given compound may be a suitable candidate for a phase 3 clinical trial within the next 5 years.
Translational research: Empowering the role of pathologists and cytopathologists
Authors: Khella Heba W. Z. , Yousef George M.
Published: October 2018

Research activity is in the core essence of pathology. Advancing our understanding of disease pathogenesis translates into better patient care. Because of their unique position, laboratorians are the best to accurately identify, annotate, and classify research specimens. They also are essential for the accurate interpretation of genomic testing. Currently, cytopathologists are moving to the center of patient care through active communication with clinicians and patients. There are certain research areas in which cytopathologists can be pioneers, such as image analysis, morphology research, and genotype‐phenotype association studies integrating morphologic and molecular features. Health service utilization research is another domain in which cytopathologists can excel. Successful research is a journey that necessitates multiple steps. It also involves building expertise in how to overcome obstacles and handle challenges.
Key analysis of smart tourism project setting and tourists' satisfaction degree based on data mining
Authors: Gu Tao , Song Lijun , Wang Hua , Jin Maozhu
Published: October 2018

By improving the mining efficiency and enhancing the scalability of the algorithm, it solves the problem that the traditional recommendation algorithm has a long response time and low recommendation efficiency in the recommendation of tourist spots, and cannot adapt to the needs of big data mining. An in‐depth analysis of the existing collaborative filtering recommendation algorithm was conducted, and the Slope One algorithm and the Item‐based algorithm recommended for the tourist attractions were selected. Combine these two algorithms efficiently, parallelize the algorithm based on MapReduce programming on the Hadoop cloud platform, and verify the validity of the algorithm by collecting the “tourism evaluation network” real tourist attraction scoring data. By testing the real tourist attraction score data, it shows that the algorithm not only improves the accuracy of the recommendation but also has higher running speed than the traditional collaborative filtering algorithm. The experimental results show that the algorithm has higher mining performance and scalability and can be better adapted to the characteristics of large tourist sites, sparse data matrix, and meet the high hit rate and personalized requirements of tourist attractions.