bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Tris(3‐pyridyl)stannane as a Building Block for Heterobimetallic Coordination Polymers and Supramolecular Cages
Authors: Yang Eric S. , Plajer Alex J. , García‐Romero Álvaro , Bond Andrew D. , Ronson Tanya K. , Álvarez Celedonio M. , García‐Rodríguez Raúl , Colebatch Annie L. , Wright Dominic S.
Published: August 2019

The systematic assembly of supramolecular arrangements is a persistent challenge in modern coordination chemistry, especially where further aspects of complexity are concerned, as in the case of large molecular mixed‐metal arrangements. One targeted approach to such heterometallic complexes is to engineer metal‐based donor ligands of the correct geometry to build 3D arrangements upon coordination to other metals. This simple idea has, however, only rarely been applied to main group metal‐based ligand systems. Here, we show that the new, bench‐stable tris(3‐pyridyl)stannane ligand PhSn(3‐Py)3 (3‐Py=3‐pyridyl) provides simple access to a range of heterometallic SnIV/transition metal complexes, and that the presence of weakly coordinating counter anions can be used to build discrete molecular arrangements involving anion encapsulation. This work therefore provides a building strategy in this area, which parallels that of supramolecular transition metal chemistry.
Peptide‐Chain Elongation Using Unprotected Amino Acids in a Micro‐Flow Reactor
Authors: Fuse Shinichiro , Masuda Koshiro , Otake Yuma , Nakamura Hiroyuki
Published: August 2019

Conventional peptide synthesis requires a deprotection step after each amidation step, which decreases synthetic efficiency. Therefore, peptide synthesis using unprotected amino acids is considered an ideal approach. Here, we report peptide chain elongation using unprotected amino acids via a mixed carbonic anhydride. Micro‐flow technology enabled rapid mixing of an organic layer containing a protected amino acid or dipeptide and an aqueous layer containing an unprotected amino acid or dipeptide to accelerate the desired amidation, and this approach successfully suppressed undesired racemization/epimerization (≤0.4 %). Various di‐, tri‐, and tetra‐peptides were obtained in good to high yields. This is the first report on peptide chain elongation that proceeds without severe racemization from unprotected amino acids using inexpensive, nonexplosive, less wasteful, and less toxic reagents.
Whole‐cell biocatalytic of Bacillus cereus WZZ006 strain to synthesis of indoxacarb intermediate: (S)‐5‐Chloro‐1‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐2‐hydroxy‐1H‐indene‐2‐carboxylic acid methyl ester
Authors: Zhang Yinjun , Zhang Hongyun , Cheng Feifei , Xia Ying , Zheng Jianyong , Wang Zhao
Published: August 2019

In this study, a newly isolated strain screened from the indoxacarb‐rich agricultural soils, Bacillus cereus WZZ006, has a high stereoselectivity to racemic substrate 5‐chloro‐1‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐2‐hydroxy‐1H‐indene‐2‐carboxylic acid methyl ester. (S)‐5‐chloro‐1‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐2‐hydroxy‐1H‐indene‐2‐carboxylic acid methyl ester was obtained by bio‐enzymatic resolution. After the 36‐hour hydrolysis in 50‐mM racemic substrate under the optimized reaction conditions, the e.e.s was up to 93.0% and the conversion was nearly 53.0% with the E being 35.0. Therefore, B cereus WZZ006 performed high‐level ability to produce (S)‐5‐chloro‐1‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐2‐hydroxy‐1H‐indene‐2‐carboxylic acid methyl ester. This study demonstrates a new biocatalytic process route for preparing the indoxacarb chiral intermediates and provides a theoretical basis for the application of new insecticides in agricultural production.
Helicity of perfluoroalkyl chains controlled by the self‐assembly of the Ala‐Ala dipeptides
Authors: Zhang Lianglin , Lin Shuwei , Tong Qiyun , Li Yan , Wang Yong , Li Yi , Li Baozong , Yang Yonggang
Published: August 2019

Four Ala‐Ala dipeptides with a perfluoroalkyl chain at the N‐terminal were synthesized. They were able to self‐assemble into helical nanofibers and/or twisted nanobelts in a mixture of DMSO/H2O. The handedness of nanofibers and nanobelts was controlled by the chirality of the alanine at the N‐terminal. The stacking handedness of the phenylene groups and the helicity of the perfluoroalkyl chain were studied using circular dichroism spectroscopy and vibrational circular dichroism, respectively. The chirality of the alanine at N‐terminal controlled the stacking handedness of the neighboring phenylene groups. Moreover, due to the low potential barrier between M‐ and P‐helices of the perfluorocarbon chain, the handedness of the organic self‐assemblies eventually controlled the helicity of the perfluorocarbon chain. X‐ray diffraction indicated that a lamellar structure was formed by the dimers of the dipeptides.
Development of a noninvasive tool to preoperatively evaluate the muscular invasiveness of bladder cancer using a radiomics approach
Authors: Zheng Junjiong , Kong Jianqiu , Wu Shaoxu , Li Yong , Cai Jinhua , Yu Hao , Xie Weibin , Qin Haide , Wu Zhuo , Huang Jian , Lin Tianxin
Published: August 2019

Background

Bladder cancer (BCa) can be divided into muscle‐invasive BCa (MIBC) and non−muscle‐invasive BCa (NMIBC). Whether the tumor infiltrates the detrusor muscle is a critical determinant of disease management in patients with BCa. However, the current preoperative diagnostic accuracy of muscular invasiveness is less than satisfactory. The authors report a radiomic‐clinical nomogram for the individualized preoperative differentiation of MIBC from NMIBC.

Methods

In total, 2602 radiomics features were extracted from whole bladder tumors and the basal part of the lesions on T2‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Then, a radiomics signature was constructed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm in the training set (n = 130). Furthermore, a radiomic‐clinical nomogram was developed incorporating the radiomics signature and selected clinical predictors based on a multivariable logistic regression analysis. The performance of the nomogram (discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness) was assessed and validated in an independent validation set (n = 69).

Results

The radiomics signature, consisting of 23 selected features, showed good discrimination in the training and validation sets (area under the curve [AUC], 0.913 and 0.874, respectively). Incorporating the radiomics signature and magnetic resonance imaging‐determined tumor size, the radiomic‐clinical nomogram showed favorable calibration and discrimination in the training set with an AUC of 0.922, which was confirmed in the validation set (AUC, 0.876). Decision curve analysis and net reclassification improvement and integrated discrimination improvement indices (net reclassification improvement, 0.338, integrated discrimination improvement, 0.385) demonstrated the clinical usefulness of the nomogram.

Conclusions

The proposed noninvasive radiomic‐clinical nomogram can increase the accuracy of preoperatively discriminating MIBC from NMIBC, which may aid in clinical decision making and improve patient prognosis.
Genetic and morphological analyses reveal a complex biogeographic pattern in the endemic barbel populations of the southern Italian peninsula
Authors: Zaccara Serena , Quadroni Silvia , De Santis Vanessa , Vanetti Isabella , Carosi Antonella , Britton Robert , Lorenzoni Massimo
Published: August 2019

The Italian peninsula is a biodiversity hotspot, with its freshwater fish fauna characterized by high levels of local endemism. Two endemic fluvio‐lacustrine fishes of the genus Barbus (barbel, family Cyprinidae) have allopatric distributions in the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic basins of Italy. Barbus plebejus inhabits the mid‐ to northern Adriatic basins, while B. tyberinus is widespread in all central‐northern basins draining into the Tyrrhenian Sea. For basins in Southern Italy draining into the southern parts of these seas, there remains a knowledge gap on their barbel populations due to no previous genetic and morphological studies, despite their apparent biogeographic isolation. Correspondingly, this study quantified the presence and distribution of barbels in the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian basins of Southern Italy through genetic and morphological analyses of 197 fish sampled across eight populations. Testing of how local isolation has influenced the evolution and persistence of these populations was completed by examining sequence variation at two mitochondrial loci (cytochrome b and D‐loop) and performing geometric morphometric analyses of body shape, plus measuring 11 morphometric and meristic characters. Phylogenetic and morphological analyses revealed the presence of two genetically distinct lineages that differed significantly from adjacent B. tyberinus and B. plebejus populations. These two new taxa, here described as SI1 and SI2 Barbus lineages, are highly structured and reflect a complex mosaic biogeographic pattern that is strongly associated with the underlying hydrographical scenarios of the basins. The geographic isolation of these basins thus has high evolutionary importance that has to be considered for maintaining endemism.
Food or furniture: Separating trophic and non‐trophic effects of Spanish moss to explain its high invertebrate diversity
Authors: Borst Annieke C. W. , Angelini Christine , ten Berge Anne , Lamers Leon , Derksen‐Hooijberg Marlous , van der Heide Tjisse
Published: September 2019

Foundation species are typically suggested to enhance community diversity non‐trophically by increasing habitat structure and mitigating physical stress, while their trophic role is considered of minor importance. Yet, there is little experimental evidence on the relative importance of trophic and non‐trophic effects and the interaction with patch size. Here, we transplanted different festoon sizes of living Tillandsia usneoides (Spanish moss) and structural mimics assessing the trophic and non‐trophic roles of this habitat‐forming epiphyte in mediating the invertebrate community. Compared to bare branches, mimics enhanced species and feeding guild richness and abundances, but living festoons even more so, demonstrating that trophic and non‐trophic effects jointly stimulated the community. Specifically, our results show that, independent of patch size, 40% of the total species richness and 46% of total guild richness increase could be contributed to habitat structure alone, while Spanish moss trophically stimulated these metrics by another 60% and 54%. As detritivores were particularly enhanced in living festoons, our findings suggest that trophic stimulation occurred primarily through the provisioning of Spanish moss detritus. Our results highlight that foundation species can facilitate their associated communities through both trophic and non‐trophic pathways, calling for studies addressing their indirect trophic role via the brown food web.
Small Neutral Geminal Silicon/Phosphorus Frustrated Lewis Pairs
Authors: Kinder Timo A. , Blomeyer Sebastian , Franke Maurice , Depenbrock Felix , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Mitzel Norbert W.
Published: August 2019

Two new silicon/phosphorus‐based frustrated Lewis pairs (FLP), F3SiCH2PtBu2 (1) and Cl3SiCH2PtBu2 (2) were prepared from lithiated di‐tert‐butylmethylphosphane, LiCH2PtBu2, and the corresponding silicon tetrahalides. They were characterised by NMR spectroscopy and by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. A gas phase electron diffraction study of 1 identified two conformers of similar energy in the vapor. The reactivity of both, 1 and 2, towards a series of small molecules was investigated. Phenyl isocyanate was found to undergo addition reactions of its C‐N unit to afford five‐membered SiCPC(O)N‐ring structures. Cl3SiCH2PtBu2 (2) was converted with perfluorophenyllithium and 3,5‐bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyllithium. The reaction with LiC6F5 resulted in the ortho‐fluoride substitution product (C6F5)2SiCH2(C6F4)PtBu2 (5), while the aryl reagent without ortho‐fluoride groups, leads to the intramolecular Lewis pair (C8H3F6)3SiCH2PtBu2 (6). The FLP reactivity of 6 was tested.
How about selling commodity futures losers?
Authors: Kang Jangkoo , Kwon Kyung Yoon
Published: August 2019

This paper explores the benefits of extending the investment universe to commodity futures, from the perspective of momentum traders. We find that the growth‐optimal portfolio includes negative (positive) weights on commodity futures losers (stock winners). Motivated by this finding, we construct a joint momentum strategy, buying stock winners and selling commodity futures losers, and show that it generates an average monthly return of up to 1.91% and provides much lower skewness (0.04) and kurtosis (1.27) than a traditional stock momentum strategy. It also greatly improves profitability, especially in unfavorable market states, and thus effectively manages tail risk.
R‐spondin 2 Drives Liver Tumor Development in a Yes‐Associated Protein‐Dependent Manner
Authors: Conboy Caitlin B. , Vélez‐Reyes Germán L. , Tschida Barbara R. , Hu Hsiangyu , Kaufmann Gabriel , Koes Nicholas , Keller Bryant , Alsinet Clara , Cornellà Helena , Pinyol Roser , Abrahante Juan E. , Temiz Nuri A. , Linden Michael A. , Amin Khalid , Kuka Timothy P. , Keng Vincent W. , Llovet Josep M. , Starr Timothy K. , Largaespada David A.
Published: September 2019

Each year, more than 25,000 people succumb to liver cancer in the United States, and this neoplasm represents the second cause of cancer‐related death globally. R‐spondins (RSPOs) are secreted regulators of Wnt signaling that function in development and promote tissue stem cell renewal. In cancer, RSPOs 2 and 3 are oncogenes first identified by insertional mutagenesis screens in tumors induced by mouse mammary tumor virus and by transposon mutagenesis in the colonic epithelium of rodents. RSPO2 has been reported to be activated by chromosomal rearrangements in colorectal cancer and overexpressed in a subset of hepatocellular carcinoma. Using human liver tumor gene expression data, we first discovered that a subset of liver cancers were characterized by high levels of RSPO2 in contrast to low levels in adjacent nontumor tissue. To determine if RSPOs are capable of inducing liver tumors, we used an in vivo model from which we found that overexpression of RSPO2 in the liver promoted Wnt signaling, hepatomegaly, and enhanced liver tumor formation when combined with loss of transformation‐related protein 53 (Trp53). Moreover, the Hippo/yes‐associated protein (Yap) pathway has been implicated in many human cancers, influencing cell survival. Histologic and gene expression studies showed activation of Wnt/β‐catenin and Hippo/Yap pathways following RSPO2 overexpression. We demonstrate that knockdown of Yap1 leads to reduced tumor penetrance following RSPO2 overexpression in the context of loss of Trp53. Conclusion: RSPO2 overexpression leads to tumor formation in the mouse liver in a Hippo/Yap‐dependent manner. Overall, our results suggest a role for Yap in the initiation and progression of liver tumors and uncover a novel pathway activated in RSPO2‐induced malignancies. We show that RSPO2 promotes liver tumor formation in vivo and in vitro and that RSPO2's oncogenic activity requires Hippo/Yap activation in hepatocytes. Both RSPO2 and YAP1 are suggested to represent novel druggable targets in Wnt‐driven tumors of the liver.
Changes in perceived usability and aesthetics with repetitive use in the first use session
Authors: Lee Sangwon , Ha Taehyun
Published: August 2019

This study examines how repetitive use in a short time period influences perceived usability, aesthetics, and user satisfaction. A mixed design was used, considering usability, aesthetics, and exposure time. Sixty‐four users were tested in a controlled experimental setting. According to the results, the negative effect of low usability on perceived usability and user satisfaction decreased as familiarity with the tasks increased. Also, the negative effect of low aesthetics on perceived usability weakened with repetitive use. These results imply that repetitive use can be an important matter for products with bad designs and promoting repetitive use in a short time period can be an effective strategy to reduce negative user perceptions.
The effect of psychological risk elements on pilot flight operational performance
Authors: Wang Lei , Zhang Jingyi
Published: September 2019

This study aims to examine the relationship between psychological risk elements and flight operation performance for airline pilots. First, the concept of “risky pilots” is discussed, and the existence of “risky pilots” is verified using a percentage analysis of flight exceedance events. Second, three psychological risk elements for pilots are investigated using an implementation of psychological scales, and the exceedance behaviors of risky pilots are analyzed based on real flight data. Finally, correlation and cluster analyses are used to study the influence of psychological risk elements on the exceedance behaviors of airline transport pilots and their operational performance. The results indicate that approximately one‐third of pilots are more prone to exceedance events than other pilots. A moderate positive linear correlation (R [44] = 0.400; p < .05) existed between hazardous attitudes and severe exceedance rates. For pilots with a high level of risk psychology, of their flights were considered “poor” operational performance level. Finally, it is concluded that hazardous attitude is a psychological risk element that has significant negative effects on severe exceedance behaviors of pilots. In addition, the flight operation performance levels of pilots were also affected by the psychological risk level. Furthermore, it is suggested that special training to improve risky hazardous attitudes of pilots should be conducted for the purpose of reducing exceedance behaviors and improving flight performance. These findings are expected to provide support for airlines to identify and manage flight crew risks.
Solvent Effects on the Selectivity of Palladium‐Catalyzed Suzuki‐Miyaura Couplings
Authors: Reeves Emily K. , Bauman Olivia R. , Mitchem Gunner B. , Neufeldt Sharon R.
Published: August 2019

The use of polar solvents MeCN or dimethylformamide (DMF) was previously shown to induce a selectivity switch in the Pd/PtBu3‐catalyzed Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling of chloroaryl triflates. This phenomenon was attributed to the ability of polar solvents to stabilize anionic transition states for oxidative addition. However, we demonstrate that selectivity in this reaction does not trend with solvent dielectic constant. Unlike MeCN and DMF, water, alcohols, and several polar aprotic solvents such as MeNO2, acetone, and propylene carbonate provide the same selectivity as nonpolar solvents. These results indicate that the role of solvent on the selectivity of Suzuki‐Miyaura couplings may be more complex than previously envisioned. Furthermore, this observation has the potential for synthetic value as it greatly broadens the scope of solvents that can be used for chloride‐selective cross coupling of chloroaryl triflates.
Diagnostic value of serum D‐dimer,CA125, and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio in differentiating ovarian cancer and endometriosis
Authors: Chen Lifeng , Wang Xinyan , Shu Jing , Xu Sheng , Wu Qing , Yu Yan
Published: August 2019

Objective

To assess the utility of hematologic, inflammatory, and immunologic biomarkers for differentiating between ovarian cancer and endometriosis.

Methods

Data were retrospectively reviewed from women diagnosed with ovarian cancer and endometriosis after ovarian cyst surgery in Zhejiang, China, 2014–2016. Serologic and hematologic biomarkers, including white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, neutrophil count, red blood cell count, hemoglobin, platelets, and D‐dimer, albumin, globulin, cancer antigen 125 (CA125) andCA199 serum levels recorded pre‐operatively were assessed byROCcurve and logistic regression analysis.

Results

Overall, 49 women were diagnosed with ovarian cancer and 192 with endometriosis. For predicting ovarian cancer, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.96 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94–0.99); sensitivity, 93.2%; specificity, 87.5%) for log(D‐dimer), 0.95 (95%CI, 0.91–0.98; sensitivity, 81.3%; specificity, 96.3%) for log(CA125), and 0.92 (95%CI, 0.86–0.98; sensitivity, 92.6%; specificity, 79.2%) for neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR). TheAUCfor the combination of D‐dimer,NLR, andCA125 was 0.96 (95%CI, 0.94–0.99; sensitivity, 91.6%; specificity, 89.6%).

Conclusion

Serum D‐dimer,NLR, andCA125 were found to be potential diagnostic factors for ovarian cancer. Combined measurement of D‐dimer,NLR, andCA125 might offer a convenient screening method.
Feasibility of Controlled Drainage in Saline Vertisols of TBP Command Area of Karnataka, India
Authors: Karegoudar A.V. , Vishwanath J. , Anand S.R. , Rajkumar R.H. , Ambast S.K. , Kaledhonkar M.J.
Published: August 2019

Subsurface drainage (SSD) improves crop productivity in canal command areas suffering from waterlogging and salinity problems. However, excessive drainage of paddy fields under conventional SSD is known to cause irrigation water shortage during critical growth stages of rice and also results in excessive leaching of nitrogenous fertilizers particularly at the tail end of the irrigation command. To overcome these problems farmers of the Tungabhadra Project (TBP) irrigation command used to block the outlets of lateral drains of the SSD system. In order to provide a lasting solution to this problem through a controlled drainage approach, a comparative field study was conducted on clay loam soil at the Agricultural Research Station (ARS), Gangavathi, over four seasons. In general, there was a reduction in drain discharge depth of 64% in the case of controlled drainage over conventional SSD, with an average irrigation water saving of about 17%. Average nitrogen loss was also reduced by 50.4% compared to conventional drainage. Paddy grain yield improvement was slightly higher (from 3.84 to 5.14 t ha−1) for conventional compared to controlled conditions (3.76–4.83 t ha−1). © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contact‐free endoscopic photoacoustic sensing using speckle analysis
Authors: Lengenfelder Benjamin , Mehari Fanuel , Hohmann Martin , Löhr Cita , Waldner Maximilian J. , Schmidt Michael , Zalevsky Zeev , Klämpfl Florian
Published: August 2019

Photoacoustic endoscopy (PAE) is an emerging imaging modality, which offers a high imaging penetration and a high optical contrast in soft tissue. Most of the developed endoscopic photoacoustic sensing systems use miniaturized contact ultrasound transducers or complex optical approaches. In this work, a new fiber‐based detection technique using speckle analysis for contact‐free signal detection is presented. Phantom and ex vivo experiments are performed in transmission and reflection mode for proof of concept. In summary, the potential of the technique for endoscopic photoacoustic signal detection is demonstrated. The new technique might help in future to broaden the applications of PAE in imaging or guiding minimally invasive laser procedures.
Gastrodin alleviates Tourette syndrome via Nrf‐2/HO‐1/HMGB1/NF‐кB pathway
Authors: Long Hongyan , Ruan Jie , Zhang Mengjiao , Wang Chunyan , Huang Yaruo
Published: August 2019

The aim is to study the effects of gastrodin (GA) on striatal inflammation and oxidative stress in rats with Tourette syndrome (TS). The rat model of TS was induced by 3,3′‐iminodipropionitrile. Behavioral tests were carried out by stereotype experiment. The concentrations of amino acid transmitters glutamic acid (Glu) and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) in striatum were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum and striatum were detected by commercial kits. Cytokines in serum and striatum were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kits. Western blot analysis was used to detect striatum nuclear erythroid factor 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf‐2)/heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1)/high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1)/nuclear factor‐кB (NF‐кB) pathway‐related proteins. The expressions of Nrf‐2 and P‐NF‐кBp65 in striatum were detected by immunohistochemistry. Compared with the control group, the stereotype scores of rats in the model group significantly increased, and the contents of Glu and GABA in striatum obviously increased. GA significantly reduced the stereotype scores and decreased the contents of Glu and GABA. The levels of SOD in serum and striatum were decreased and the content of MDA in serum and striatum were increased compared with the control group, while GA significantly restored the changes. GA significantly adjusted Nrf‐2/HO‐1/HMGB1/NF‐кB pathway‐related proteins changes consistent with immunohistochemical changes. GA may protect striatum of rats with TS by regulating Nrf‐2/HO‐1/HMGB1/NF‐кB pathway protein changes in striatum.
MicroRNA‐218‐5p relieves postmenopausal osteoporosis through promoting the osteoblast differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Kou Jianqiang , Zheng Xiujun , Guo Jianwei , Liu Yang , Liu Xiangyun
Published: September 2019

MicroRNAs (miRs) are short noncoding RNAs that play key regulatory roles in osteoblast differentiation. In this study, the specific regulatory roles of miR‐218‐5p on postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) were investigated. The mouse model of PMOP was established by bilateral ovariectomy, and the injection of miR‐218‐5p mimics significantly relieved PMOP degree. Then, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) isolated from PMOP mice were induced into osteoblasts. When compared with normal BMMSCs, PMOP BMMSCs exhibited significantly lower alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and less mineralized nodules, as well as downregulated miR‐218‐5p, Runx2, Osterix, COL1A1, and OCN after induction (P < .05). The transfection of miR‐218‐5p mimics, and inhibitor significantly promoted, inhibited the osteoblast differentiation of PMOP BMMSCs, respectively. In addition, COL1A1 was a target of miR‐218‐5p. The transfection of miR‐218‐5p mimics into PMOP BMMSCs significantly upregulated COL1A1 at 14th and 21st day post‐induction, but not at 7th day. Our findings suggest miR‐218‐5p may relieve PMOP through promoting the osteoblast differentiation of BMMSCs.
α‐Amylase expressed in human small intestinal epithelial cells is essential for cell proliferation and differentiation
Authors: Date Kimie , Yamazaki Tomomi , Toyoda Yoko , Hoshi Kumi , Ogawa Haruko
Published: September 2019

α‐Amylase, which plays an essential role in starch degradation, is expressed mainly in the pancreas and salivary glands. Human α‐amylase is also detected in other tissues, but it is unclear whether the α‐amylase is endogenously expressed in each tissue or mixed exogenously with one expressed by the pancreas or salivary glands. Furthermore, the biological significance of these α‐amylases detected in tissues other than the pancreas and salivary glands has not been elucidated. We discovered that human α‐amylase is expressed in intestinal epithelial cells and analyzed the effects of suppressing α‐amylase expression. α‐Amylase was found to be expressed at the second‐highest messenger RNA level in the duodenum in human normal tissues after the pancreas. α‐Amylase was detected in the cell extract of Caco‐2 intestinal epithelial cells but not secreted into the culture medium. The amount of α‐amylase expressed increased depending on the length of the culture of Caco‐2 cells, suggesting that α‐amylase is expressed in small intestine epithelial cells rather than the colon because the cells differentiate spontaneously upon reaching confluence in culture to exhibit the characteristics of small intestinal epithelial cells rather than colon cells. The α‐amylase expressed in Caco‐2 cells had enzymatic activity and was identified as AMY2B, one of the two isoforms of pancreatic α‐amylase. The suppression of α‐amylase expression by small interfering RNA inhibited cell differentiation and proliferation. These results demonstrate for the first time that α‐amylase is expressed in human intestinal epithelial cells and affects cell proliferation and differentiation. This α‐amylase may induce the proliferation and differentiation of small intestine epithelial cells, supporting a rapid turnover of cells to maintain a healthy intestinal lumen.
Group divisible 3‐designs with block size four and group type 1ns1
Authors: Li Xiangqian , Chang Yanxun , Zhou Junling
Published: August 2019

In this article, we mainly consider the existence problem of a group divisible design GDD of type . We present two recursive constructions for this configuration using candelabra systems and construct explicitly a few small examples admitting given automorphism groups. As an application, several new infinite classes of GDDs of type are produced. Meanwhile a few new infinite families on candelabra quadruple systems with group sizes being odd and stem size greater than one are also obtained.
A negative feedback loop of H19/miR‐675/VDR mediates therapeutic effect of cucurmin in the treatment of glioma
Authors: Pan Jie‐Xiang , Chen Tu‐Nan , Ma Kang , Wang Shi , Yang Chuan‐Yan , Cui Gao‐Yu
Published: August 2019

Curcumin (CUR) shows a remarkable antitumor activity against a wide range of cancers such as glioma, but its underlying mechanism remains elusive. In this study, we aimed to explore the potential role of H19/miR‐675/vitamin D receptor (VDR) in the effect of CUR against glioma. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western‐blot analysis were used to study the effect of CUR or 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D3) on the expression of H19, miR‐675, and VDR. In addition, the effect of H19 on VDR expression was also studied. Furthermore, the expression of H19, miR‐675, and VDR between CUR‐loaded nanoparticles (NPs) and NP groups was compared, and the interaction among H19, miR‐675, and VDR was analyzed by in‐silicon and luciferase assays. In a dose‐dependent manner, CUR and 1,25(OH)2D3 both downregulated the expression of H19 and miR‐675 but increased the expression of VDR. In addition, H19 evidently reduced the mRNA and protein levels of VDR. Furthermore, VDR was confirmed as a target gene of miR‐675, which significantly reduced the expression of VDR. Finally, the administration of CUR evidently decreased tumor volume. CUR‐loaded NP group exhibited lower levels of H19 and miR‐675, while the NP group showed higher levels of VDR mRNA and protein. In summary, it is the first time that the involvement of a negative feedback loop of H19/miR‐675/VDR has been demonstrated in the development of glioma. Therefore, H19 might serve as a new biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of glioma.
lncRNA HOTAIR upregulates autophagy to promote apoptosis and senescence of nucleus pulposus cells
Authors: Zhan Shengfeng , Wang Kun , Xiang Qian , Song Yu , Li Shuai , Liang Hang , Luo Rongjin , Wang Bingjin , Liao Zhiwei , Zhang Yukun , Yang Cao
Published: September 2019

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a complex and chronic disease that involves disc cell senescence, death, and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. HOTAIR, a long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) is reportedly associated with autophagy, whereas autophagy is shown to promote IDD. However, how it affects nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, the primary component of intervertebral discs is still unclear. We hypothesized that HOTAIR promotes NP cell apoptosis and senescence through upregulating autophagy. Thus, silencing HOTAIR should inhibit autophagy and exert a therapeutic effect on IDD. Our in vitro experiments in human NP cells revealed that HOTAIR expression positively correlated with IDD grade, and overexpression enhanced autophagy. Autophagy inhibition via 3‐methyladenine reversed HOTAIR stimulatory effects on apoptosis, senescence, and ECM catabolism, while the AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibitor Compound C suppressed HOTAIR‐induced autophagy through regulating AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 pathways. Our in vivo experiment then illustrated that silencing HOTAIR ameliorates IDD in rats. Collectively, we demonstrated that HOTAIR stimulates autophagy to promote NP cell apoptosis, senescence, and ECM catabolism. Therefore, silencing HOTAIR has the potential to become a treatment option for IDD.
Sexually transmitted hepatitis C virus infections: current trends, and recent advances in understanding the spread in men who have sex with men
Authors: Nijmeijer Bernadien M , Koopsen Jelle , Schinkel Janke , Prins Maria , Geijtenbeek Teunis BH
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major public health threat. Although the recent availability of highly effective directly acting antivirals created optimism towards HCV elimination, there is ongoing transmission of HCV in men who have sex with men (MSM). We here report current epidemiological trends and synthesise evidence on behavioural, network, cellular and molecular host factors associated with sexual transmission of HCV, in particular the role of HIV‐1 co‐infection. We discuss prevention opportunities focusing on the potential of HCV treatment.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, fact sheets from health professional bodies and conference abstracts using appropriate keywords to identify and select relevant reports.

Results and discussion

Recent studies strongly suggest that HCV is transmitted via sexual contact in HIV‐positive MSM and more recently in HIV‐negative MSM eligible for or on pre‐exposure prophylaxis. The reinfection risk following clearance is about 10 times the risk of primary infection. International connectedness of MSM transmission networks might contribute to ongoing reinfection. Some of these networks might overlap with networks of people who inject drugs. Although, the precise mechanisms facilitating sexual transmission remain unclear, damage to the mucosal barrier in the rectum could increase susceptibility. Mucosal dendritic cell subsets could increase HCV susceptibility by retaining HCV and transmitting the virus to other cells, allowing egress into blood and liver. Early identification of new HCV infections is important to prevent onward transmission, but early diagnosis of acute HCV infection and prompt treatment is hampered by the slow rate of HCV antibody seroconversion, which in rare cases may take more than a year. Novel tests such as testing for HCV core antigen might facilitate early diagnosis.

Conclusions

High‐risk sexual behaviour, network characteristics, co‐infection with sexually transmitted infections like HIV‐1 and other concomitant bacterial and viral sexually transmitted infections are important factors that lead to HCV spread. Targeted and combined prevention efforts including effective behavioural interventions and scale‐up of HCV testing and treatment are required to halt HCV transmission in MSM.
β‐Arrestin 2 protects against neurological function defects in HSV‐1‐induced encephalitis mice
Authors: Zeng Yanping , Liang Jingjing , Weng Chao , Lu Zuneng , Zhou Yu
Published: August 2019

The pathogenesis of herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) needs to be fully explored. β‐Arrestin 2 (Arrb2) is highly expressed in brain tissues and plays a key role in the regulation of systemic immune reactions by modulating various signaling pathways. However, the expression of Arrb2 in microglial cells and its influence on HSE prognosis is still undefined. We explore the pathophysiological effect of Arrb2 in the brain using experimental HSE mice. The expression of Arrb2 in microglia was decreased significantly 48 hours following HSV‐1 infection. Arrb2 overexpression transgenic (TG) mice had a significantly lower mortality and survival rate was improved by 40% compared to wild‐type mice. Arrb2 suppressed the generation of proinflammatory cytokines TNF‐α and IL‐6 and increased anti‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐10 and IL‐4 expression. Arrb2 also inhibited the activation of the transcription factor NF‐κB in microglial cells. Arrb2 TG mice attenuated the blood‐brain barrier breakdown and relieved cerebral edema, meanwhile, Arrb2 improved mice neurological function compared with wild‐type mice. Overall, Arrb2 favored microglia of the M2 phenotype, attenuated brain proinflammatory responses, protected the blood vessel wall integrity, reduced HSV‐1‐induced neurological impairment, and improved the survival rate in HSE mice.
Sensor applications of thin‐film devices originating in display technologies
Authors: Kimura Mutsumi
Published: August 2019

Thin‐film devices are widely utilized for flat‐panel displays, and the essential advantages of the thin‐film devices are generally large‐area production, various‐material substrate, layered structure, etc. Appropriate applications are flat‐panel displays, and other applications where the abovementioned advantages are available and the disadvantages are acceptable are sensor applications. Moreover, if the sensor devices can be made by thin‐film devices that have been already utilized for flat‐panel displays, they can be made without additional cost. Therefore, thin‐film devices are again promising for sensor applications especially for interactive displays. We are investigating sensor applications of thin‐film devices. Particular in this journal paper, we review sensor applications of thin‐film devices originating in display technologies. The various sensors are visible‐light sensor, infrared‐light sensor, temperature sensor, magnetic‐field sensor, etc. Many research results from many research organizations as well as our research laboratory are introduced.
S‐100B as an extra selection tool for FDG PET/CT scanning in follow‐up of AJCC stage III melanoma patients
Authors: Deckers Eric A. , Wevers Kevin P. , Muller Kobold Anneke C. , Damude Samantha , Vrielink Otis M. , van Ginkel Robert J. , Been Lukas B. , van Leeuwen Barbara L. , Hoekstra Harald J. , Kruijff Schelto
Published: August 2019

Background and Objectives

This current study assessed the value of S‐100B measurement to guide fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scanning for detecting recurrent disease in stage III melanoma patients.

Methods

This study included 100 stage III melanoma patients in follow‐up after curative lymph node dissection. Follow‐up visits included physical examination and S‐100B monitoring. FDG PET/CT scanning was indicated by clinical symptoms and/or elevated S‐100B.

Results

Of 100 patients, 13 (13%) had elevated S‐100B without clinical symptoms, of whom 7 (54%) showed disease evidence upon FDG PET/CT scanning. Twenty‐six patients (26%) had clinical symptoms with normal S‐100B and FDG PET/CT revealed metastasis in 20 (77%). Three patients had clinical symptoms and elevated S‐100B, and FDG PET/CT revealed metastasis in all three (100%). Overall, FDG PET/CT scanning revealed metastasis in 30 of the 42 patients (71.4%). For seven recurrences, elevated S‐100B prompted early detection of asymptomatic disease; 10% of all asymptomatic patients in follow‐up, 23% of all patients with recurrent disease.

Conclusion

S‐100B cannot exclude recurrent disease during follow‐up of stage III melanoma. However, adding S‐100B measurement to standard clinical assessment can guide FDG PET/CT scanning for detecting recurrent melanoma.
Therapeutic index of lymphadenectomy among patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: A multi‐institutional analysis
Authors: Wu Lu , Sahara Kota , Tsilimigras Diamantis I. , Maithel Shishir K. , Poultsides George A. , Rocha Flavio G. , Weber Sharon M. , Fields Ryan C. , Idrees Kamran , Cho Clifford S. , Shen Feng , Pawlik Timothy M. ,   and other members of the U.S. Neuroendocrine Tumor Study Group
Published: August 2019

Background

The benefit derived from lymph node dissection (LND) in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) based on clinicopathological characteristics remains unclear.

Methods

Patients undergoing surgery for pNET between 1997 and 2016 were identified using a multi‐institutional dataset. The therapeutic index of LND relative to patient characteristics was calculated.

Results

Among 647 patients, the median number of lymph nodes (LNs) evaluated was 10 (interquartile range: 4‐16) and approximately one quarter of patients had lymph node metastasis (LNM) (N = 159, 24.6%). Among patients with LNM, 5‐year recurrence‐free survival was 56.0%, reflecting a therapeutic index value of 13.8. The therapeutic index was highest among patients with a moderately/poorly‐differentiated pNET (21.5), Ki‐67 ≥ 3% (20.1), tumor size ≥2.0 cm (20.0), and tumor location at the head of the pancreas (20.0). Patients with ≥8 LNs evaluated had a higher therapeutic index than patients who had 1 to 7 LNs evaluated (≥8: 17.9 vs 1‐7: 7.5; difference of index: 11.4).

Conclusion

LND was mostly beneficial among patients with pNETs >2 cm, Ki‐67 ≥ 3%, and lesions located at the pancreatic head as identification of LNM was most common among individuals with these tumor characteristics. Evaluation of ≥8 LNs was associated with a higher likelihood of identifying LNM as well as a higher therapeutic index, and therefore this number of LNs should be considered the goal.
Lower fecal pH may be a novel indicator of pouchitis after IPAA in patients with FAP or metachronous Lynch syndrome
Authors: Yang Liu , Bao Jun , Jiang Qian , Yu Dong‐sheng , Zhong Jian
Published: September 2019

Background and Objectives

To assess whether fecal pH might be an indicator of pouchitis during the postoperative period in hereditary colorectal cancer (CRC) patients who have undergone ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA).

Methods

Five consecutive daily pH values of stool samples from 31 familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) patients and 32 metachronous Lynch syndrome patients who underwent IPAA procedures were reviewed. Patients with pouchitis (pouchitis group, n = 22) were compared with patients without pouchitis (nonpouchitis group, n = 41). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine the indicative potential of fecal pH for pouchitis. A Mantel‐Cox test was also performed to evaluate the survival status of patients with or without pouchitis.

Results

Pouchitis was noted in 22 (34.9%) of 63 patients after IPAA. The significance of each daily average fecal pH value and the 5‐day overall average fecal pH value was compared between the two groups (P < .01). A cutoff fecal pH value of 7.46 was determined by the ROC analysis for assessing the risk of pouchitis. No significant difference in 5‐year overall survival was observed between the two groups.

Conclusion

A lower fecal pH value in patients with hereditary CRC after IPAA might be a new indicator of pouchitis.
Text recycling: Views of North American journal editors from an interview‐based study
Authors: Pemberton Michael , Hall Susanne , Moskovitz Cary , Anson Chris M.
Published: September 2019

Over the past decade, text recycling (TR; AKA ‘self‐plagiarism’) has become a visible and somewhat contentious practice, particularly in the realm of journal articles. While growing numbers of publishers are writing editorials and formulating guidelines on TR, little is known about how editors view the practice or how they respond to it. We present results from an interview‐based study of 21 North American journal editors from a broad range of academic disciplines. Our findings show that editors' beliefs and practices are quite individualized rather than being tied to disciplinary or other structural parameters. While none of our participants supported the use of large amounts of recycled material from one journal article to another, some editors were staunchly against any use of recycled material, while others were accepting of the practice in certain circumstances. Issues of originality, the challenges of rewriting text, the varied circulation of texts, and abiding by copyright law were prominent themes as editors discussed their approaches to TR. Overall, the interviews showed that many editors have not thought systematically about the practice of TR, and they sometimes have trouble aligning their beliefs and practices.
Numerical simulation of the aluminum–zinc–steel galvanic system for new designs of automotive chassis
Authors: Ruiz‐Garcia Allan , Mayen‐Mondragon Rodrigo , Genesca Joan , Morales‐Murillo Esteban , Taha‐Tijerina Jaime , Montoya Rodrigo
Published: August 2019

The requirement for lighter vehicles in the automotive industry promotes designs based on the combination of different metallic alloys. Such an approach, however, leads to galvanic‐corrosion risks, which compromise the durability of vehicles. One proposal to minimize such risks is to separate some of the chassis components by a Zn washer. The present work uses the finite element method to evaluate such an innovative design. The capacity of the washer to protect its aluminum alloy and carbon steel neighbors is assessed. As a worst‐case scenario, the bare metals are in contact with NaCl solution. Two electrolyte layer thicknesses are assumed: in the micrometer and in the millimeter range. Each case requires different mathematical models. For the thin film case, the zinc washer is able to protect its neighbors from corrosion. However, it sustains large corrosion rates, and thus its protection is effective only during short periods. Furthermore, as the Zn surface degrades and thus recesses, the “protective field” is blocked by the neighboring metal‐walls. The thicker the electrolyte layer, the weaker the Zn protective capability and, at some point, the corrosion of the aluminum alloy is unavoidable.
PRMT1 potentiates chondrosarcoma development through activation of YAP activity
Authors: Chen Changbao , Zhou Hua , Zhang Xiaolin , Liu Zhongjun , Ma Xinlong
Published: September 2019

Protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) is identified as an oncogene implicated in various types of human cancers, while Yes‐associated protein (YAP) as a key transcriptional coactivator of the Hippo signaling plays a vital role in tissue homeostasis and tumorigenesis. To date, the underlying biological functions, prognostic values, and potential mechanisms of PRMT1 and YAP in chondrosarcoma development have not been clearly elucidated. Here, we show that upregulation of PRMT1 and YAP is significantly detected in human chondrosarcoma specimens. Elevated levels of PRMT1 positively correlated with YAP nuclear accumulation are significantly associated with high‐grade chondrosarcoma and poor prognosis. Moreover, YAP is recognized as an independent prognostic factor for chondrosarcoma patients. Ectopic expression of PRMT1 potentiates, but depletion of PRMT1 attenuates, chondrosarcoma cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we have discovered that PRMT1 functions upstream of LATS1 and suppresses LATS1‐mediated phosphorylation of YAP (Ser127), and thus promotes chondrosarcoma cell survival in a YAP‐dependent manner. Collectively, our study identifies PRMT1 as a positive regulator of YAP activity in chondrosarcoma, highlighting a novel therapeutic target against chondrosarcoma and other YAP‐driven cancers.
Neurotensin receptor 1 is a new therapeutic target for human undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma growth
Authors: Tokumoto Hiroto , Setoguchi Takao , Saitoh Yoshinobu , Sasaki Hiromi , Nagano Satoshi , Maeda Shingo , Tanimoto Akihide , Taniguchi Noboru
Published: September 2019

Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) is the second most common soft tissue sarcoma. For patients with unresectable or metastatic disease, chemotherapies are considered, but in many cases they are not curative. There is a need to identify specific molecular dysregulations that can be therapeutic targets. We focused on neurotensin receptor 1 (NTSR1), which belongs to the G‐protein‐coupled receptor. NTSR1 expression was upregulated in specimens from patients with UPS. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction showed that expression of NTSR1 messenger RNA was 5‐ to 7‐fold increased in UPS cells compared with myoblasts. Western blot showed a high expression of NTSR1 protein in UPS cell lines. Knockdown of NTSR1 prevented UPS cell proliferation and invasion. We confirmed that SR48692, an inhibitor of NTSR1, exhibited antitumor activities in UPS cells. The combination index showed that SR48692 and standard chemotherapeutic drugs prevented UPS cell proliferation synergistically. Mouse xenograft models showed that SR48692 inhibited extracellular signal‐regulated kinase phosphorylation and enhanced the response to standard chemotherapeutic drugs. Inhibition of NTSR1 improved the effect of standard chemotherapeutic drugs for UPS. SR48692 may be a new drug for targeted UPS therapy.