bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dosimetric evaluation of an atlas‐based synthetic CT generation approach for MR‐only radiotherapy of pelvis anatomy
Authors: Farjam Reza , Tyagi Neelam , Deasy Joseph O. , Hunt Margie A.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

To investigate the potential of an atlas‐based approach in generation of synthetic CT for pelvis anatomy.

Methods

Twenty‐three matched pairs of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were selected from a pool of prostate cancer patients. All MR scans were preprocessed to reduce scanner‐ and patient‐induced intensity inhomogeneities and to standardize their intensity histograms. Ten (training dataset) of 23 pairs were then utilized to construct the coregistered CT‐MR atlas. The synthetic CT for a new patient is generated by appropriately weighting the deformed atlas of CT‐MR onto the new patient MRI. The training dataset was used as an atlas to generate the synthetic CT for the rest of the patients (test dataset). The mean absolute error (MAE) between the deformed planning CT and synthetic CT was computed over the entire CT image, bone, fat, and muscle tissues. The original treatment plans were also recomputed on the new synthetic CTs and dose–volume histogram metrics were compared. The results were compared with a commercially available synthetic CT Software (MRCAT) that is routinely used in our clinic.

Results

MAE errors (±SD) between the deformed planning CT and our proposed synthetic CTs in the test dataset were 47 ± 5, 116 ± 12, 36 ± 6, and 47 ± 5 HU for the entire image, bone, fat, and muscle tissues respectively. The MAEs were 65 ± 5, 172 ± 9, 43 ± 7, and 42 ± 4 HU for the corresponding tissues in MRCAT CT. The dosimetric comparison showed consistent results for all plans using our synthetic CT, deformed planning CT and MRCAT CT.

Conclusion

We investigated the potential of a multiatlas approach to generate synthetic CT images for the pelvis. Our results demonstrate excellent results in terms of HU value assignment compared to the original CT and dosimetric consistency.
OGTT is recommended for glucose homeostasis assessments in Friedreich ataxia
Authors: Azzi Anne‐Sophie , Cosentino Cristina , Kibanda Jésabelle , Féry Françoise , Cnop Miriam
Published: November 2018

Diabetes is a common complication of Friedreich ataxia, requiring sensitive diagnostic methods. Here, we compared the performance of different tests that assess glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and β‐cell function in Friedreich ataxia patients, heterozygous FXN mutation carriers and controls. We find that diabetes is underdiagnosed with fasting glucose alone. The oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) provides 1.2‐ to 3.5‐fold more diagnoses of impaired glucose homeostasis and diabetes, and adequately measures insulin sensitivity, insulin secretion, and β‐cell function. Clinicians in charge of Friedreich ataxia patients and researchers should incorporate the OGTT as an accurate diagnostic and research tool.
Hip Involvement in Patients With Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition Disease: Potential and Limits of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
Authors: Di Matteo Andrea , Filippucci Emilio , Cipolletta Edoardo , Musca Alice , Carotti Marina , Mashadi Mirza Riccardo , Jesus Diogo , Martire Victoria , Pierucci Daniele , Di Carlo Marco , Salaffi Fausto , Grassi Walter
Published: November 2018

Objective

To preliminarily explore the diagnostic potential of ultrasound (US) in detecting calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) crystal deposits at the hip joint in a cohort of patients with CPP deposition disease (CPPD) who were previously evaluated by conventional radiography (CR) and to assess the sensitivity and specificity as well as the agreement between US and CR in the evaluation of hip CPP crystal deposits.

Methods

Fifty consecutive patients with definite CPPD and 40 age/sex/body mass index–matched disease control subjects who had undergone hip CR within the previous 6 months were enrolled. Bilateral hip US examination was carried out to assess the presence of CCP crystal deposits at the acetabular labrum fibrocartilage and at the femoral head's hyaline cartilage. Two independent radiologists evaluated the presence of hip CPP crystal deposits on CR in both groups.

Results

US findings indicative of CPP crystal deposits were found in at least 1 hip in 45 of 50 patients with CPPD (90.0%) and in 73 of 100 hips (73.0%). CPP crystal deposits were more frequently found at the acetabular labrum fibrocartilage than at the femoral head's hyaline cartilage (72% and 17% of the hips in patients with CPPD, respectively). US and CR sensitivity was 90% and 86%, whereas US and CR specificity was 85% and 90%, respectively. Total agreement between the US and CR findings was 77.8%.

Conclusion

Our results provide new evidence supporting US as a first‐line, sensitive, safe, and reliable imaging technique in detecting CPP crystal deposits at the hip level.
Ten Years of Interventional Research in Systemic Sclerosis: A Systematic Mapping of Trial Registries
Authors: Iudici Michele , Bafeta Aïda , Atal Ignacio , Ravaud Philippe
Published: November 2018

Objective

To provide a comprehensive overview of interventional clinical trials registered in international databases and planned and conducted within the last 10 years in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods

We searched the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform for all records on interventional clinical trials targeting patients with SSc performed since September 2007. Two reviewers selected studies according to the prespecified eligibility criteria. Information on start date, country of origin, funding sources, phase of development, study design, (planned) sample size, enrollment status, outcomes, disease complication, and treatments investigated were retrieved and summarized.

Results

Among the 198 eligible studies identified (122 randomized controlled trials [RCTs; 62%]), 87 (30%) were conducted in Europe, 165 (83%) in a single country, and 81 (41%) were industry‐funded. The majority of trials investigated pharmacologic treatments (75%), mostly nonbiotherapies (57%). RCTs were mostly 2‐arm (82%) placebo‐controlled (71%) studies with a median number of patients enrolled or planned to be enrolled of 40 (interquartile range 25–77 [range 10–586]). Twenty‐one RCTs (17%) planned to enroll or

enrolled >100 patients. Time to assess the primary outcome was found to be adequate in 29% to 50% of RCTs retrieved. Patients age >65 years were excluded in 14% of studies. SSc complications more frequently investigated in overall studies were skin thickness (26%), Raynaud's phenomenon/digital ulcers (24%), and interstitial lung disease (14%).

Conclusion

The SSc research landscape is dominated by small, short, and mainly placebo‐controlled trials, especially investigating pharmacologic treatments. Some patients’ needs continue to be neglected.
Endothelial Cell Mechanotransduction in the Dynamic Vascular Environment
Authors: Charbonier Frank W. , Zamani Maedeh , Huang Ngan F.
Published: November 2018

The endothelial cells (ECs) that line the inner layer of blood vessels are responsible for maintaining vascular homeostasis under physiological conditions. In the presence of disease or injury, ECs can become dysfunctional and contribute to a progressive decline in vascular health. ECs are constantly exposed to a variety of dynamic mechanical stimuli, including hemodynamic shear stress, pulsatile stretch, and passive signaling cues derived from the extracellular matrix. This review describes the molecular mechanisms by which ECs perceive and interpret these mechanical signals. The translational applications of mechanosensing are then discussed in the context of endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition and engineering of vascular grafts.
Pore Engineering of Mesoporous Tungsten Oxides for Ultrasensitive Gas Sensing
Authors: Li Yuhui , Zhou Xinran , Luo Wei , Cheng Xiaowei , Zhu Yongheng , El‐Toni Ahmed Mohamed , Khan Aslam , Deng Yonghui , Zhao Dongyuan
Published: November 2018

The mesoporous tungsten oxides have shown great potential in various fields, including energy storage and conversion, catalysis, and gas sensor, because they have ordered porous architectures and unique semiconducting property for host–guest interaction. Most of the reported mesoporous tungsten oxides have monomodal mesopores, which are not favorable for the mass diffusion and host–guest interactions. To date, it still remains a great challenge to synthesize ordered mesoporous WO3 with bimodal or hierarchical pores and crystalline frameworks. Herein, a pore engineering strategy is demonstrated for the synthesis of ordered mesoporous WO3 with well‐connected bimodal pores, and crystalline pore walls by using hydrophilic resols as the sacrificial carbon source which can interact preferentially with poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) domains and serves a glue to bridge the tungsten species and poly(ethylene oxide)‐block‐polystyrene block copolymers. The obtained ordered mesoporous tungsten oxide materials possess dual mesopore size (5.8 and 15.8 nm), high surface area (128 m2 g−1), large window size (7.7 nm), and highly crystalline mesostructure. The dual mesoporous WO3‐based gas sensor exhibits significantly excellent gas sensing performance toward H2S with a rapid response (3 s) and recovery (14 s) even at low concentration (0.2 ppm), and high selectivity, which is much better than previously reported WO3‐based sensors.
Ultrastable and Low‐Threshold Random Lasing from Narrow‐Bandwidth‐Emission Triangular Carbon Quantum Dots
Authors: Yuan Fanglong , Xi Zifan , Shi Xiaoyu , Li Yunchao , Li Xiaohong , Wang Zhaona , Fan Louzhen , Yang Shihe
Published: November 2018

The development of ultrastable and low‐threshold random lasers has long been the subject of intense academic research, in anticipation for widespread applications spanning from military weapon devices, biomedical therapy, and materials processing to energy savings. Reported here is the first example of ultrastable and low‐threshold random lasing emissions ranging from blue to red based on narrow bandwidth emission triangular carbon quantum dots (CQDs). The lasing thresholds of the blue, green, and red random lasers are determined to be as low as 0.087, 0.052, and 0.048 mJ cm−2, and the corresponding narrow full widths at half maximum are 0.9, 0.37, and 0.82 nm, respectively. Furthermore, such random lasers demonstrate outstanding stability. This work will inspire further research on lasers operating in other modes, based on the CQDs, such as the whispering‐gallery mode and the Fabry–Pérot mode, which will expedite the development of the next‐generation of ultrastable and low‐threshold CQDs‐based laser technology.
Structure‐Optimized Interpolymer Polyphosphazene Complexes for Effective Gene Delivery against Glioblastoma
Authors: Hsu Wei‐Hsin , Sánchez‐Gómez Pilar , Gomez‐Ibarlucea Esther , Ivanov Delyan P. , Rahman Ruman , Grabowska Anna M. , Csaba Noemi , Alexander Cameron , Garcia‐Fuentes Marcos
Published: November 2018

Safe and efficient gene delivery vectors will enhance the prospects for polynucleotide‐based therapies. Herein a new approach toward structurally optimized gene vector design based on the preparation of clickable poly(allylamino‐phosphazene)s that can be converted to several cationic and anionic derivatives via thiol–ene addition is described. Simultaneous co‐incubation of alkylamine‐ and alkylcarboxylate‐poly(phosphazenes) with polynucleotide generates binary polyelectrolyte nanoparticles. Screening of a series of these complexes for transfection in glioblastoma cells shows that the inclusion of 6‐mercaptohexanoic acid substituted poly(phosphazene)s in the complexes results in six‐fold and 19‐fold higher luciferase expression in U87MG cells and GBM1 primary cells, respectively. This effect is attributed to the specific ionization properties of these materials that improved polyplex intracellular trafficking. Transfection in 3D‐spheroid models and subcutaneous xenograft U87MG tumors confirms higher transgene expression for the binary cationic/anionic poly(phosphazene) complexes compared to the related polycation‐pDNA complexes and to PEI‐pDNA complexes. The data also indicate a notable capacity of the mixed complexes to deliver genes to the inner cores of tumor spheroids. Extension of this approach to siRNA delivery shows that the mixed poly(phosphazene) complexes can silence DYRK1A, a gene implicated in glioblastoma initiation and progression, reducing U87MG cell renewal in vitro and delaying tumor growth in vivo.
Low‐Voltage, High‐Frequency Organic Transistors and Unipolar and Complementary Ring Oscillators on Paper
Authors: Kraft Ulrike , Zaki Tarek , Letzkus Florian , Burghartz Joachim N. , Weber Edwin , Murmann Boris , Klauk Hagen
Published: November 2018

Paper substrates for flexible, mobile, and disposable electronic applications draw academic and commercial attention due to their many advantages, such as cost efficiency, low weight, mechanical flexibility, and environmental compatibility. For portable electronic applications, it is important that the electronic devices and circuits can be operated with voltages of a few volts, due to the limitations of mobile power supplies, such as solar cells or energy harvesting devices. Here, low‐voltage organic p‐channel and n‐channel transistors as well as unipolar and complementary ring oscillators are fabricated directly on the surface of a banknote. It is demonstrated that low‐power organic integrated circuits on paper substrates can be operated with supply voltages of less than 3 V and with frequencies of several hundred kilohertz. These results emphasize the prospects of organic transistors for smart paper applications.
Semiconducting Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes or Very Rigid Conjugated Polymers: A Comparison
Authors: Zaumseil Jana
Published: November 2018

With the ability to produce large amounts of purely semiconducting and even monochiral dispersions of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) their application as a bulk material in thin film devices on a large scale becomes feasible. Their physical properties, processing, and final devices are quite similar to those of semiconducting polymers. In the extreme case one may view carbon nanotubes as very long, rigid, and fully conjugated polymers. This analogy raises the question whether the knowledge accumulated over the last two decades of processing and studying conjugated polymers could be transferred to solution‐processed nanotube devices. Here, the optical and electronic properties of both materials in solution and in thin films are discussed and compared with a focus on their application in optoelectronic devices. Some striking similarities and common issues are highlighted to show the connection between conjugated polymers and SWCNTs as 1D semiconductors.
Mortality from liver angiosarcoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cirrhosis among vinyl chloride workers
Authors: Fedeli Ugo , Girardi Paolo , Gardiman Giulio , Zara Davide , Scoizzato Luca , Ballarin Maria N. , Baccini Michela , Pirastu Roberta , Comba Pietro , Mastrangelo Giuseppe
Published: November 2018

Background

Occupational exposure to vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) has been established as a cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver angiosarcoma (ASL). However, some controversy remains due to conflicting results on liver cirrhosis, and to evidence on HCC based on few confirmed cases. The aim of the study is to clarify the association between VCM exposure and mortality from liver diseases.

Methods

In a cohort of 1658 workers involved in VCM production and polymerization, Poisson regression was adopted to estimate rate ratios (RR) across categories of VCM exposure for mortality due to ASL (n = 9), HCC (n = 31) confirmed by histological/clinical records, and the combination of deaths from liver cirrhosis and from liver cancer with clinical/histological evidence of cirrhosis (n = 63).

Results

Cumulative VCM exposure was associated with study outcomes; RRs in the highest compared to the lowest exposure category were: ASL 91.1 (95%Confidence Interval 16.8‐497), HCC 5.52 (2.03‐15.0), liver cirrhosis 2.60 (1.19‐5.67).

Conclusions

The risk of death from liver cirrhosis, as well as from HCC in the largest available series of confirmed cases, increased with VCM exposure.
Impact of California's safe patient handling legislation on musculoskeletal injury prevention among nurses
Authors: Lee Soo‐Jeong , Lee Joung Hee , Harrison Robert
Published: November 2018

Background

This study evaluated the impact of California's safe patient handling (SPH) legislation on musculoskeletal injury prevention among hospital nurses.

Methods

Two serial cross‐sectional surveys were conducted using postal and online questionnaires in statewide random samples of California registered nurses in 2013 and 2016. Analysis included hospital nurses who performed patient handling (n = 254 and n = 281, respectively).

Results

In 2016, there were significant improvements in nurses’ knowledge of a SPH policy in their hospital (87%), receipt of annual SPH training (73%), and availability of lift equipment (80%); 33% perceived their hospital's SPH programs as excellent or very good. Significant prevalence reduction was observed for work‐related musculoskeletal symptoms (61% vs 52%; Adjusted Prevalence Ratio = 0.78, 95% CI 0.66‐0.91).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate the significant role of SPH legislation with positive impacts on SPH policies and programs at the hospital level and on musculoskeletal health outcomes at the worker level.
The involvement of the canonical Wnt‐signaling receptor LRP5 and LRP6 gene variants with ADHD and sexual dimorphism: Association study and meta‐analysis
Authors: Grünblatt Edna , Nemoda Zsofia , Werling Anna Maria , Roth Alexander , Angyal Nora , Tarnok Zsanett , Thomsen Hauke , Peters Triinu , Hinney Anke , Hebebrand Johannes , Lesch Klaus‐Peter , Romanos Marcel , Walitza Susanne
Published: November 2018

Wnt‐signaling is one of the most abundant pathways involved in processes such as cell‐proliferation, ‐polarity, and ‐differentiation. Altered Wnt‐signaling has been linked with several neurodevelopmental disorders including attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as with cognitive functions, learning and memory. Particularly, lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 5 (LRP5) or LRP6 coreceptors, responsible in the activation of the canonical Wnt‐pathway, were associated with cognitive alterations in psychiatric disorders. Following the hypothesis of Wnt involvement in ADHD, we investigated the association of genetic variations in LRP5 and LRP6 genes with three independent child and adolescent ADHD (cADHD) samples (total 2,917 participants), followed by a meta‐analysis including previously published data. As ADHD is more prevalent in males, we stratified the analysis according to sex and compared the results with the recent ADHD Psychiatric Genomic Consortium (PGC) GWAS. Meta‐analyzing our data including previously published cADHD studies, association of LRP5 intronic rs4988319 and rs3736228 (Ala1330Val) with cADHD was observed among girls (OR = 1.80 with 95% CI = 1.07–3.02, p = .0259; and OR = 2.08 with 95% CI = 1.01–4.46, p = .0026, respectively), whereas in boys association between LRP6 rs2302685 (Val1062Ile) and cADHD was present (OR = 1.66, CI = 1.20–2.31, p = .0024). In the PGC‐ADHD dataset (using pooled data of cADHD and adults) tendency of associations were observed only among females with OR = 1.09 (1.02–1.17) for LRP5 rs3736228 and OR = 1.18 (1.09–1.25) for LRP6 rs2302685. Together, our findings suggest a potential sex‐specific link of cADHD with LRP5 and LRP6 gene variants, which could contribute to the differences in brain maturation alterations in ADHD affected boys and girls, and suggest possible therapy targets.
Monkey business: Collaborating to grow an ecological physiology of primates
Authors: Thompson Cynthia L. , Vinyard Christopher J.
Published: November 2018

The lab and field provide differing approaches to studying primate biology. We outline the challenges and benefits of these approaches and demonstrate how collaboration can help bridge these perspectives to provide complementary insight into primate adaptive pathways. With this aim, our collaboration has made tangible insights into the ecological physiology of several primate species, and also yielded more subtle, intangible professional benefits.
Access to All‐Carbon Spirocycles through a Carbene and Thiourea Cocatalytic Desymmetrization Cascade Reaction
Authors: Zhuo Shitian , Zhu Tingshun , Zhou Liejin , Mou Chengli , Chai Huifang , Lu Yunpeng , Pan Lutai , Jin Zhichao , Chi Yonggui Robin
Published: November 2018

A new catalytic approach for rapid asymmetric access to spirocycles is disclosed. The reaction involves a carbene‐ and thiourea‐cocatalyzed desymmetrization process with the simultaneous installation of a spirocyclic core. The use of a thiourea cocatalyst is critical to turn on this reaction, as no product was formed in the absence of a thiourea. Our study constitutes the first success in the carbene‐catalyzed enantioselective synthesis of all‐carbon spirocycles. The reaction products can be readily transformed into sophisticated multicyclic molecules and chiral ligands.
A Chemiluminescent Probe for HNO Quantification and Real‐Time Monitoring in Living Cells
Authors: An Weiwei , Ryan Lucas S. , Reeves Audrey G. , Bruemmer Kevin J. , Mouhaffel Lyn , Gerberich Jeni L. , Winters Alexander , Mason Ralph P. , Lippert Alexander R.
Published: November 2018

Azanone (HNO) is a reactive nitrogen species with pronounced biological activity and high therapeutic potential for cardiovascular dysfunction. A critical barrier to understanding the biology of HNO and furthering clinical development is the quantification and real‐time monitoring of its delivery in living systems. Herein, we describe the design and synthesis of the first chemiluminescent probe for HNO, HNOCL‐1, which can detect HNO generated from concentrations of Angeli's salt as low as 138 nm with high selectivity based on the reaction with a phosphine group to form a self‐cleavable azaylide intermediate. We have capitalized on this high sensitivity to develop a generalizable kinetics‐based approach, which provides real‐time quantitative measurements of HNO concentration at the picomolar level. HNOCL‐1 can monitor dynamics of HNO delivery in living cells and tissues, demonstrating the versatility of this method for tracking HNO in living systems.
Design, synthesis and X‐ray structural studies of novel [acetonitrile‐benzyl‐3‐N‐(2, 4 dihydroxyphenylmethylene) hydrazinecarbodithioato‐κ3‐N′, S, O] nickel(ll) complex that potently inhibit cell proliferation through regulation of apoptosis related genes
Authors: Zahan Ronok , Rahi Md. Sifat , Sheikh Md. Chanmiya , Miyatake Ryuta , Zangrando Ennio , Naz Tarannum , Islam Md. Al‐Amin‐Al‐Azadul , Reza Md Abu
Published: November 2018

Nickel is a fundamental element for healthy life for human and higher animals. For biological importance, its complexation with bioactive ligand is worth to be studied with the aim to understand its function. Using mouse peritoneal cancer model, MTT colorimetric assay and anticancer activity analysis, we examined the role of nickel(ll) complex in growth inhibition of cancer cells. A novel nickel(ll) complex was synthesized and characterized using physico‐chemical and spectroscopic techniques. The study indicated that both the ligand and complex were capable of inhibiting Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) cells growth by 28.21% and 44.52%, respectively, when administered 0.3 mg/kg/day body weight intraperitoneally for five consecutive days in Swiss Webstar mice. Determination the LD50 of the complex (55 mg/kg) allowed adjusting the dose as 2.75 mg/kg and upon administration, inhibition increased to 69.36%. The ligand and complex have shown an inhibitory effect in the range of 4.86%–67.3% and 6.1%‐ 89.37%, respectively, against EAC cells (concentration range of 31.25–500 μg/ml) in RPMI‐1640 medium as determined by MTT colorimetric assay. Apoptotic cell morphological alteration was determined through optical and fluorescence microscopy. Up regulation of P53, Bax, Cas‐8, Cas‐3 and Fas and down regulation of NF‐kB and Bcl‐2 gene expression were observed in the cells treated with the nickel(ll) complex for five consecutive days. In conclusion, the newly synthesized nickel(ll) complex has shown anti‐proliferative activity and can further be optimized to be used as a lead molecule for anticancer drug.
Mg–Al layered double hydroxide intercalated with manganese(III) 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(4‐benzoate)porphyrinacetate as a highly reusable catalyst for epoxidation
Authors: Bagherzadeh Mojtaba , Mesbahi Elnaz
Published: November 2018

The preparation and characterization are presented of a new catalytic material comprising Mg–Al layered double hydroxide and intercalated manganese(III) 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(4‐benzoate)porphyrinacetate. Characterization was realized via various techniques. The prepared composite exhibited excellent catalytic activity in the selective epoxidation of various olefins with tetra‐n‐butylammonium hydrogen monopersulfate as an oxidant under mild reaction conditions. Furthermore, the catalytic system could be reused nine times without significant reduction in conversion percentage and any special care or additional treatment of the catalyst.
Synthesis, antimicrobial activity and molecular docking of di‐ and triorganotin (IV) complexes with thiosemicarbazide derivatives
Authors: Huedo Claudia , Zani Franca , Mendiola Antonia , Pradhan Sayantan , Sinha Chittaranjan , López‐Torres Elena
Published: November 2018

Six organotin (IV) complexes with two ligands derived from 2,3‐butanedione and thiosemicarbazide have been synthesized and fully characterized by several spectroscopic techniques, including 119Sn NMR and single crystal X‐ray diffraction. Reactions of the ligand diacetyl‐2‐(thiosemicarbazone)‐3‐(3‐hydroxy‐2‐naphthohydrazone), L1H2, with SnR2Cl2 (R = Me, Bu, Ph) lead to the obtaining of complexes 1–3 with general formula [SnR2L1] (R = Me 1, R = Bu 2, R = Ph 3), in which the ligand is doubly deprotonated and behaves as a N2SO donor, whereas from the reactions of diacetyl‐2‐thiosemicarbazone, HATs, with the same organotin precursors any complex could be isolated. By contrast, reaction of HATs with SnR3Cl induces the ligand cyclization to form a 1,2,4‐triazine‐3‐thione that binds to the metal as a monoanionic donor in a mono or bidentate manner to form compounds 4–6 with formula [SnR3L2] (R = Me 4, R = Bu 5, R = Ph 6). The antimicrobial activity of the ligands and the six complexes was tested towards bacteria and fungi, including clinical isolated strains. The results show that the ligands are devoid of activity, except HATs that displays activity against Bacillus subtilis. Conversely, the complexes exhibit good antimicrobial properties against Gram positive and negative bacteria, yeasts and moulds. The best results are obtained for complexes [SnBu3L2] 5 and [SnPh3L2] 6, indicating that their more lipophilic nature could play an important role in the ease of microbial cell penetration. In some cases, these complexes display similar or higher activity than that of ampicillin and miconazole, used as antibacterial and antifungal positive controls, respectively. Docking study with DHPS protein (S. aureus) has shown that out of six drugs, the compound 6 has the best binding affinity (−8.5 Kcal/mol).
Poly(amic acid) salt‐mediated palladium and platinum nanoparticles as highly active and recyclable catalysts for hydrogenation of nitroarenes in water under ambient conditions
Authors: Li Jun , Wang Yuchen , Jin Xin , Wang Ya , Li Hengfeng
Published: November 2018

Development of highly active and recyclable catalysts for selective hydrogenation of nitroarenes to amines in water at room temperature is always a challenge in chemical industry. This study reports a facile in situ method for synthesis of ultrafine palladium and platinum nanoparticles (NPs) stabilized by poly (amic acid) salt (PAAS) and their potential as catalysts for hydrogenation of nitroarenes with sodium borohydride or molecular hydrogen as reductant in water at room temperature. In the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol to 4‐aminophenol by sodium borohydride, the activity parameters of PdNPs–PAAS and PtNPs–PAAS catalyst is 6.66 × 103 and 5.58 × 103 s−1 M−1 respectively. In the hydrogenation of diverse nitroarenes under atmospheric hydrogen pressure, PdNPs–PAAS shows high activity but poor selectivity toward desired amines in some cases, while PtNPs–PAAS shows both high activity and high selectivity for selective hydrogenation of nitroarenes to corresponding anilines. The high efficiency of nanocatalyst is due to the quasi‐homogeneous dispersion of metal NPs and synergistic effects between metal NPs and PAAS. In addition, nanocatalyst can be easily recovered with pH‐sensibility of PAAS and reused at least six times without significant loss of catalytic activities.
Effect of carbon nanotubes decorated with silver nanoparticles as hybrid filler on properties of natural rubber nanocomposites
Authors: Krainoi Apinya , Kummerlöwe Claudia , Vennemann Norbert , Nakaramontri Yeampon , Pichaiyut Skulrat , Nakason Charoen
Published: November 2018

Decoration of carbon nanotube (CNT) surfaces with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was performed using N,N‐dimethylformamide reducing agent. The CNT‐decorated with AgNP (CNT‐AgNP) was then used to prepare natural rubber (NR) nanocomposites via latex mixing method. Cure characteristics, mechano‐thermal relaxation, electrical conductivity, and thermal properties of the composites were investigated. It was found that the CNT‐AgNP gave cure properties improved over plain NR compounds in terms of scorch time, degree of vulcanization, and activation energy. In addition, temperature scanning stress relaxation measurement revealed stronger network formation after incorporation of AgNP into the NR matrix due to the interaction among CNT and AgNP particles. This also provided high conductivity and low percolation threshold concentration for the CNT‐AgNP filled NR, relative to plain CNT filled NR composites. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47281.
Comprehensive Longitudinal Surveillance of the IgG Autoantibody Repertoire in Established Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Vordenbäumen Stefan , Brinks Ralph , Hoyer Annika , Fischer‐Betz Rebecca , Pongratz Georg , Lowin Torsten , Zucht Hans‐Dieter , Budde Petra , Bleck Ellen , Schulz‐Knappe Peter , Schneider Matthias
Published: November 2018

Objective

To investigate the role of epitope spreading in established systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

IgG autoantibody reactivity with 398 distinct recombinant proteins was measured over a period of 6 years in 69 SLE patients and compared to that in 45 controls. Changes in mean fluorescence intensity (MFI), number of autoantibodies to distinct antigens, and reactivity with distinct clones of established antigenic targets (e.g., U1 RNP, Sm, and ribosomal P) representing epitope fine mapping were assessed. Linear mixed modeling, adjusted with Bonferroni correction for age and sex, was applied.

Results

The total number of autoantibodies, mean MFI, and number of autoantibodies in epitope fine mapping were higher in SLE patients compared to controls (P < 0.0001). The total number of antibodies to distinct autoantigens remained stable over time, while the mean MFI decreased over time in SLE (P < 0.021). SLE patients showed variable recognition of epitopes in fine mapping over time. In particular, in SLE patients, more clones of the U1 RNP complex were recognized at the time of new organ involvement (+0.65) (P = 0.007). Mean MFI was higher in patients with lupus nephritis (P = 0.047). The time‐averaged MFIs of 22 individual autoantibodies (including double‐stranded DNA [dsDNA]) were higher, after Bonferroni correction, in SLE (P < 0.0001). The MFIs of dsDNA and histone cluster 2 H3c were associated with scores on the Systemic Lupus Activity Measure (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Longitudinal surveillance of the IgG autoantibody repertoire in established SLE reveals evidence of sustained breadth of autoantibody repertoire without significant expansion. Associations of disease activity with dsDNA and with histone H3 autoantibodies were confirmed.
Discovery of a Prenylated Flavonol Derivative as a Pin1 Inhibitor to Suppress Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Modulating MicroRNA Biogenesis
Authors: Zheng Yuanyuan , Pu Wenchen , Li Jiao , Shen Xianyan , Zhou Qiang , Fan Xin , Yang Sheng‐Yong , Yu Yamei , Chen Qiang , Wang Chun , Wu Xin , Peng Yong
Published: November 2018

Peptidyl‐prolyl cis‐trans isomerase Pin1 plays a crucial role in the development of human cancers. Recently, we have disclosed that Pin1 regulates the biogenesis of miRNA, which is aberrantly expressed in HCC and promotes HCC progression, indicating the therapeutic role of Pin1 in HCC therapy. Here, 7‐(benzyloxy)‐3,5‐dihydroxy‐2‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐8‐(3‐methylbut‐2‐en‐1‐yl)‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one (AF‐39) was identified as a novel Pin1 inhibitor. Biochemical tests indicate that AF‐39 potently inhibits Pin1 activity with an IC50 values of 1.008 μm, and also displays high selectivity for Pin1 among peptidyl prolyl isomerases. Furthermore, AF‐39 significantly suppresses cell proliferation of HCC cells in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Mechanistically, AF‐39 regulates the subcellular distribution of XPO5 and increases miRNAs biogenesis in HCC cells. This work provides a promising lead compound for HCC treatment, highlighting the therapeutic potential of miRNA‐based therapy against human cancer.
Aggregation‐Induced Delayed Fluorescence Luminogens for Efficient Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Zeng Jiajie , Guo Jingjing , Liu Hao , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Zhao Zujin , Chen Shuming , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: November 2018

Aggregation‐induced delayed fluorescence (AIDF) can be regarded as a special case of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE). Luminogens with AIDF can simultaneously emit strongly in solid state and fully utilize the singlet and triplet excitons in organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). In this work, two new AIDF luminogens, DMF‐BP‐DMAC and DPF‐BP‐DMAC, with an asymmetric D–A–D′ structure, are designed and synthesized. The characteristics of both luminogens are systematically investigated, including single crystal structures, theoretical calculations, photophysical properties and thermal stabilities. Inspired by their AIDF nature, the green‐emission non‐doped OLEDs based on them are fabricated, which afford good electroluminescence performances, with low turn‐on voltages of 2.8 V, high luminance of 52560 cd m−2, high efficiencies of up to 14.4 %, 42.3 cd A−1 and 30.2 lm W−1, and very small efficiency roll‐off. The results strongly indicate the bright future of non‐doped OLEDs on the basis of robust AIDF luminogens.
Carbon emission and ethanol markets: evidence from Brazil
Authors: Dutta Anupam , Bouri Elie
Published: November 2018

The production of ethanol has increased globally over the last decade. It is mainly produced from corn and sugarcane, so earlier studies mainly investigated the impact of food prices on ethanol prices. Although biofuels have been brought into the energy markets to reduce the volume of carbon emissions, the links between ethanol and carbon emission markets have not been explored sufficiently in the existing literature. This study aimed to extend the literature in this field by using a GARCH‐jump process to examine whether Brazilian ethanol prices are affected by carbon emission prices. Our key findings are threefold. First, carbon emission prices affect Brazilian ethanol prices positively. Rising emission prices would therefore cause an increase in the ethanol price. Second, time‐varying jumps occur in the ethanol price index. Third, the impact of emission prices on the ethanol market is asymmetric, implying that increases and decreases in emission prices would have heterogeneous effects on ethanol price levels. Our findings have important implications for scholars, investors, and policymakers. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Semiparametric transformation models for interval‐censored data in the presence of a cure fraction
Authors: Chen Chyong‐Mei , Shen Pao‐sheng , Huang Wei‐Lun
Published: November 2018

Mixed case interval‐censored data arise when the event of interest is known only to occur within an interval induced by a sequence of random examination times. Such data are commonly encountered in disease research with longitudinal follow‐up. Furthermore, the medical treatment has progressed over the last decade with an increasing proportion of patients being cured for many types of diseases. Thus, interest has grown in cure models for survival data which hypothesize a certain proportion of subjects in the population are not expected to experience the events of interest. In this article, we consider a two‐component mixture cure model for regression analysis of mixed case interval‐censored data. The first component is a logistic regression model that describes the cure rate, and the second component is a semiparametric transformation model that describes the distribution of event time for the uncured subjects. We propose semiparametric maximum likelihood estimation for the considered model. We develop an EM type algorithm for obtaining the semiparametric maximum likelihood estimators (SPMLE) of regression parameters and establish their consistency, efficiency, and asymptotic normality. Extensive simulation studies indicate that the SPMLE performs satisfactorily in a wide variety of settings. The proposed method is illustrated by the analysis of the hypobaric decompression sickness data from National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Luteolin‐mediated Kim‐1/NF‐kB/Nrf2 signaling pathways protects sodium fluoride‐induced hypertension and cardiovascular complications
Authors: Oyagbemi Ademola Adetokunbo , Omobowale Temidayo Olutayo , Ola‐Davies Olufunke Eunice , Asenuga Ebunoluwa Racheal , Ajibade Temitayo Olabisi , Adejumobi Olumuyiwa Abiola , Afolabi Jeremiah Moyinoluwa , Ogunpolu Blessing Seun , Falayi Olufunke Olubunmi , Saba Adebowale Bernard , Adedapo Adeolu Alex , Yakubu Momoh Audu
Published: November 2018

The use of sodium fluoride (NaF) as a major ingredient for tooth paste, mouth wash, and mouth rinse has become inevitable in our day‐to‐day life. However, flavonoids such as Luteolin might be of great value in the prevention of toxicity associated with accidental or inevitable ingestion of NaF. In the study, 40 male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups with 10 rats in a group. Group A was the control group and received normal saline, Group B was exposed to NaF at 300 ppm (300 mg/L) in drinking water daily for a week, Groups C and D were exposed to 300 ppm (300 mg/L) of NaF and coadministered with Luteolin orally daily at a dosage of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg for the same time point. Our results indicated that NaF caused significant increases in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl, myeloperoxidase, advanced oxidative protein products, together with significant reductions in glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, reduced glutathione, and nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. The electrocardiogram results showed that NaF alone caused significant prolongation of QT and QTc intervals. Immunohistochemistry revealed that NaF caused increase expressions of Kidney injury marker 1 (Kim‐1), nuclear factor kappa bet (NF‐κB), nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factors 2 (Nrf2), and cardiac troponin I (CTnI). Together, Luteolin coadministration with NaF improved NO bioavailability, reduced high blood pressure, markers of oxidative stress, reversed prolongation of QT and QTc intervals, and lowered the expressions of Kim‐1, NF‐κB, and CTnI. © 2018 BioFactors, 44(6):518–531, 2018
Poly(2‐oxazoline)s terminated with 2,2′‐imino diacetic acid form noncovalent polymer–enzyme conjugates that are highly active in organic solvents
Authors: Hijazi Montasser , Spiekermann Pia , Krumm Christian , Tiller Joerg C.
Published: November 2018

A great limitation for the usability of free enzymes in organic solvents is their insolubility in these media. Some surfactants are capable of solubilizing enzymes in such media, but they are hard to remove. Covalent modification of enzymes with polymers has led to polymer–enzyme conjugates (PECs) that are soluble in organic solvents, but the process is quite elaborate. Poly(2‐oxazoline)s (POx) with the end group 2,2′‐imino diacetic acid were shown to form reversible, nano‐sized noncovalent aggregates with enzymes. These PECs give clear solutions in organic solvents. The enzymes lysozyme, horseradish peroxidase (HRP), laccase, α‐chymotrypsin (CT), catalase, and alcohol dehydrogenase could be solubilized in chloroform and toluene at concentrations of up to 2 mg protein/ml. Laccase, HRP, and CT were shown to survive the transfer into the organic medium and back to water in their active form. The distribution coefficient of the proteins between water and the organic solvent was shown to be dependent on the nature of the POx backbone. All three biocatalysts exhibit greatly enhanced activity in the respective organic solvent.
A practical guide to developing virtual and augmented reality exercises for teaching structural biology
Authors: Garcia‐Bonete Maria‐Jose , Jensen Maja , Katona Gergely
Published: November 2018

Although virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) techniques have been used extensively in specialized laboratories, only recently did they become affordable, reaching wider consumer markets. With increased availability, it is timely to examine the roles that VR and AR may play in teaching structural biology and in experiencing complex data sets such as macromolecular structures. This guide is suitable for those teachers of structural biology who do not have a deep knowledge of information technologies. This study focuses on three questions: 1) How can teachers of structural biology produce and disseminate VR/AR‐ready educational material with established and user‐friendly software tools?; 2) What are the positive and negative experiences reported by test participants when performing identical learning tasks in the VR and AR environments?; and 3) How do the test participants perceive prerecorded narration during VR/AR exploration? © 2018 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 47(1):16–24, 2018.
Chronic idiopathic axonal polyneuropathy: Prevalence of pain and impact on quality of life
Authors: Zis Panagiotis , Sarrigiannis Ptolemaios G. , Rao Dasappaiah G. , Hewamadduma Channa , Hadjivassiliou Marios
Published: November 2018

Background and Aim

Chronic idiopathic axonal polyneuropathy (CIAP) is a term describing axonal neuropathies of insidious onset, with slow or no progression of the disease over at least 6 months and with no etiology being identified despite appropriate investigations. We aimed to establish the prevalence of pain in patients with CIAP and investigate the impact of pain on quality of life (QoL).

Methods

All consecutive patients with CIAP attending a specialist neuropathy clinic were invited to participate. Pain was assessed via the DN4 questionnaire and the visual analogue scale (VAS). Overall Neuropathy Limitations Scale (ONLS) was used to assess the severity of neuropathy. The SF‐36 questionnaire was used to measure participants’ quality of life.

Results

Fifty‐five patients with CIAP were recruited (63.6% male, mean age 73.4 ± 8.7 years). Based on the DN4 questionnaire, peripheral neuropathic pain was present in 33 patients (60.0%). After having adjusted for age, gender and disease severity pain showed significant negative correlations with the energy/fatigue domain of QoL (β = −0.259, p = 0.049), with the emotional well‐being domain (β = −0.368, p = 0.007) and the general health perception domain (β = −0.356, p = 0.007).

Conclusion

Pain is very prevalent in CIAP and is associated with poorer emotional well‐being, worse general health perception, and increased fatigue.
Justice at any cost? The impact of cost–benefit salience on criminal punishment judgments
Authors: Aharoni Eyal , Kleider‐Offutt Heather M. , Brosnan Sarah F. , Watzek Julia
Published: November 2018

This study investigated the effect of cost–benefit salience on simulated criminal punishment judgments. In two vignette‐based survey experiments, we sought to identify how the salience of decision costs influences laypeople's punishment judgments. In both experiments (N1 = 109; N2 = 398), undergraduate participants made sentencing judgments with and without explicit information about the direct, material costs of incarceration. Using a within‐subjects design, Experiment 1 revealed that increasing the salience of incarceration costs mitigated punishments. However, when costs were not made salient, punishments were no lower than those made when the costs were externalized (i.e., paid by a third party). Experiment 2 showed the same pattern using a between‐subjects design. We conclude that, when laypeople formulate sentencing attitudes without exposure to the costs of the punishment, they are prone to discount those costs, behaving as if punishment is societally cost‐free. However, when cost information is salient, they utilize it, suggesting the operation of a genuine, albeit labile, punishment preference. We discuss the implications of these findings for psychological theories of decision making and for sentencing policy, including the degree of transparency about the relevant costs of incarceration during the decision process.
CD44v9 is associated with epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and poor outcomes in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Taniguchi Daisuke , Saeki Hiroshi , Nakashima Yuichiro , Kudou Kensuke , Nakanishi Ryota , Kubo Nobuhide , Ando Koji , Oki Eiji , Oda Yoshinao , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: November 2018

CD44 serves as a marker of cancer stem cells. Alternative splicing generates the CD44v9 isoform. Cancer stem cells are associated with the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in cancers, although little is known about their role in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Here, we aimed to clarify the relationship between CD44v9 expression, the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, and clinicopathological features of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. CD44v9 levels were higher at the tumor invasive front compared with the center of the tumor and higher in metastatic lymph nodes compared with primary tumors. High levels of CD44v9 at the tumor invasive front were significantly associated with deeper tumor invasion and shorter overall survival and recurrence‐free survival. The expression of CD44v9 was increased by treatment with transforming growth factor‐β, which induced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells to undergo the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. Moreover, inhibition of CD44v9 expression decreased the migration and invasiveness of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells. These results indicate that the expression of CD44v9 at the tumor invasive front induced by stemness was strongly associated with the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and poor prognosis of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. CD44v9 may therefore serve as a novel prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
A 39‐year‐old man with schizophrenia and tuberous sclerosis with a delusion of being a pregnant woman—A case report
Authors: AlZamil Nada Adeeb , Alkhalifa Eiman Abdulhameed , Azzoni Faten
Published: November 2018

Key Clinical Message

We present a case of a married man, known case of schizophrenia and tuberous sclerosis, who presented with delusion of pregnancy along with other psychotic symptoms. This type of delusion can be attributed to wish fulfillment as the patient has been married for seven years without being able to conceive.