bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retracted: EBF1 gene promotes the proliferation and inhibits the apoptosis of bone marrow CD34+ cells in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome through negative regulation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase axis
Authors: Hou Shuang , Hao Jie , Wang Yan‐Yu , Zhao Bing‐Bing , Xiao Gong‐Wei , Li Yan‐Qing , Liu Xi , Zou Zhi‐Lan , Yao Ye , Xiong Hong
Published: October 2018

The transcription factor, early B cell factor 1 (EBF1), plays a vital role in the lineage specification involving early B cell development and the onset of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Therefore, to investigate whether or not EBF1 affects MDS as well as the transcription factor's underlying mechanism, we used CD34+ hematopoietic stem cells in bone marrow from patients with MDS. The extracted cells were then transfected with a series of EBF1, short hairpin RNA against EBF1 (shEBF1), and SB203580 (a specific mitogen‐activated protein kinase [MAPK] axis inhibitor). The effects EBF1 gene and MAPK axis had on cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration were determined by in vitro cell culturing. We made observations that involved EBF1 inhibiting the messenger RNA (mRNA) level of p38 MAPK, increasing the mRNA levels of extracellular‐signal–regulated kinase (ERK), c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular‐signal–regulated kinase 5 (ERK5), decreasing the protein expression of Bcl‐2–associated X protein (Bax), and finally elevating the protein levels of B cell lymphoma/leukemia‐2 (Bcl‐2), stem cell factor (SCF), erythropoietin receptor (EpoR), p‐ERK, p‐JNK, p‐ERK5, cyclin D, cyclin E, cyclin‐dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), and CDK6, implying that EBF1 may very well have an inhibitory role in the MAPK axis. Another discovery found that EBF1 had a positive effect on the promotion of bone marrow CD34+ cell proliferation as well as its migration, but inhibited the apoptosis of cells. The results we obtained from this study indicated that the EBF1 gene suppresses the activation of the MAPK axis, thereby promoting both the proliferation and migration of bone marrow CD34+ cells as well as inhibiting the associating apoptosis. The effects of the EBF1 gene are likely to present a new therapeutic target in preventing the progression of MDS.
microRNA‐206 is required for osteoarthritis development through its effect on apoptosis and autophagy of articular chondrocytes via modulating the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase/protein kinase B‐mTOR pathway by targeting insulin‐like growth factor‐1
Authors: Yu Qian , Zhao Bei , He Qi , Zhang Yuan , Peng Xian‐Bo
Published: October 2018

microRNA (miR) has been shown to be involved in the treatment of diseases such as osteoarthritis (OA). This study aims to investigate the role of miR‐206 in regulating insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) in chondrocyte autophagy and apoptosis in an OA rat model via the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (P13K)/protein kinase B (AKT)‐mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. Wistar rats were used to establish the OA rat model, followed by the observation of histopathological changes, Mankin score, and the detection of IGF‐1‐positive expression and tissue apoptosis. The underlying regulatory mechanisms of miR‐206 were analyzed in concert with treatment by an miR‐206 mimic, an miR‐206 inhibitor, or small interfering RNA against IGF‐1 in chondrocytes isolated from OA rats. Then, the expression of miR‐206, IGF‐1, and related factors in the signaling pathway, cell cycle, and apoptosis, as well as inflammatory factors, were determined. Subsequently, chondrocyte proliferation, cell cycle distribution, apoptosis, autophagy, and autolysosome were measured. OA articular cartilage tissue exhibited a higher Mankin score, promoted cell apoptotic rate, increased expression of IGF‐1, Beclin1, light chain 3 (LC3), Unc‐51‐like autophagy activating kinase 1 (ULK1), autophagy‐related 5 (Atg5), caspase‐3, and Bax, yet exhibited decreased expression of miR‐206, P13K, AKT, mTOR, and Bcl‐2. Besides, miR‐206 downregulated the expression of IGF‐1 and activated the P13K/AKT signaling pathway. Moreover, miR‐206 overexpression and IGF‐1 silencing inhibited the interleukins levels (IL‐6, IL‐17, and IL‐18), cell apoptotic rate, the formation of autolysosome, and cell autophagy while promoting the expression of IL‐1β and cell proliferation. The findings from our study provide a basis for the efficient treatment of OA by investigating the inhibitory effects of miR‐206 on autophagy and apoptosis of articular cartilage in OA via activating the IGF‐1‐mediated PI3K/AKT‐mTOR signaling pathway.
Differences in the genetic backgrounds of patients with alcoholic liver disease and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Yamamoto Kuniko , Kogiso Tomomi , Taniai Makiko , Hashimoto Etsuko , Tokushige Katsutoshi
Published: October 2018

Background and Aim

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have common hepatic histological features, but few studies have compared the genomic backgrounds of these two diseases. Here, we compared the genetic differences between ALD and NAFLD.

Methods

This study enrolled 318 Japanese patients with ALD (n = 118; male, 86%; median age, 62 years; liver cirrhosis, 58%; hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC], 31%) and NAFLD (n = 200; male, 55%; age, 61 years; cirrhosis, 19%; HCC, 12%). The genotype frequencies of 10 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were analyzed.

Results

The ADH1B genotype GG and ALDH2 genotype GG were observed more frequently, and the percentage of patients with the MTP genotype GG was lower in ALD compared with NAFLD patients (ADH1B, 16 vs 4%; ALDH2 84 vs 44%; MTP 62 vs 72%, respectively; all P < 0.01). Comparing noncirrhosis to cirrhosis, the frequency of the potassium voltage‐gated channel subfamily Q member 1 (KCNQ1) genotype TT and adrenoceptor beta 3 (ADRB3) genotype TT was increased significantly in ALD‐related cirrhosis. In contrast, the patatin‐like phospholipase 3 (PNPLA3) genotype CC was decreased significantly in NAFLD‐related cirrhosis. A comparison of patients with and without HCC demonstrated that the KCNQ1 genotype TT was increased significantly in both HCC groups. In addition, associations between the KCNJ15 genotype GG and ALD‐HCC and the G allele of PNPLA3 and NAFLD‐HCC were identified.

Conclusions

SNPs in genes related to ethanol and lipid metabolism clearly differed between patients with ALD and NAFLD. KCNQ1 might affect the progression and hepatocarcinogenesis in both ALD and NAFLD.
Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction for diagnosis of gastrointestinal tuberculosis
Authors: Malik Sarthak , Sharma Kusum , Vaiphei Kim , Dhaka Narendra , Berry Neha , Gupta Pankaj , Sharma Megha , Mallick Bipadabhanjan , Kochhar Rakesh , Sinha Saroj K
Published: October 2018

Background and Aim

To evaluate the role of multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for diagnosis of gastrointestinal tuberculosis (GITB).

Methods

This was a prospective observational study conducted from July 2015 to November 2016 at a tertiary care teaching institution in north India. Fifty individuals with clinically suspected GITB and older than 18 years of age were recruited. Patients underwent radiological investigations, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or colonoscopy as clinically indicated. Multiple biopsies for tissue diagnosis and PCR were taken. All specimens were subjected to Ziehl Neelsen staining, histopathology, and multiplex PCR using specific primers for genes IS6110, MPB64, and Protein b. The performance of the assay was assessed using a composite reference standard for diagnosis of tuberculosis. It comprised a combination of clinical characteristics and microbiological methods, including smear, Bactenecin (BACTEC) culture, histopathology, and response to antitubercular therapy.

Results

A final diagnosis of tuberculosis was made in 32 cases (Duodenal‐4, Ileo‐colonic‐28). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of histopathology for the diagnosis of tuberculosis was 28.12, 100, 100, and 43.9%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of BACTEC Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT) culture for the diagnosis of tuberculosis was 9.3, 100, 100, and 38.29%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of multiplex PCR for the diagnosis of tuberculosis was 87.5, 100, 100, and 86.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

Multiplex PCR using specific primers for genes IS6110, MPB64, and Protein b had a higher sensitivity compared to conventional techniques for the diagnosis of GITB.
Microwave‐assisted Synthesis of Dihydro Dibenzophenanthroline and Its Derivatives Using a Self‐catalyzed Friedlander Reaction
Authors: Chandraprakash Kumarasamy , Vandana Nandakumar , Sankaran Mathan , Uvarani Chokkalingam , Ata Athar , Mohan Palathurai Subramaniam , Suresh Thangaraj
Published: October 2018

One‐step microwave‐assisted synthesis of dihydro dibenzophenanthrolines are reported using a self‐catalyzed Friedlander reaction. The reaction is carried out in one step by simple microwave irradiation of 3,4‐dihydroacridin‐1(2H)‐one with 2‐amino‐benzophenone in the presence of acid catalysts with solvent‐free conditions. Thin‐layer chromatography was used to monitor the progress of the reaction; hence, it was observed that the reaction starts slowly and accelerates as it proceeds to ring fusion transformation. Synthesized compounds' isolated yield is enhanced in the absence of solvent systems with Friedlander catalyst under microwave irradiations.
Design, Synthesis, and In Vitro Anti‐mycobacterial Activities of 1,2,3‐Triazole‐tetraethylene Glycol Tethered Isatin Dimers
Authors: Zhao Shi‐Jia , Lv Zao‐Sheng , Deng Jia‐Lun , Gao Feng , Zhang Guang‐De , Xu Zhi
Published: October 2018

We report herein the design, synthesis, and in vitro anti‐mycobacterial activities of a series of 1,2,3‐triazole‐tetraethylene glycol tethered isatin dimers. Our results indicated that all the synthesized isatin dimers showed weak to moderate anti‐mycobacterial activities against both Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv and multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis strains. Dimer 7g was found to be most active against the tested two strains with minimum inhibitory concentration of 128 and 64 μg/mL, which was eightfold more potent than INH (minimum inhibitory concentration: 512 μg/mL) against multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis. Moreover, dimer 7g (CC50: 62.5 μg/mL) also showed acceptable cytotoxicity against VERO cell line, could act as a lead for further investigation. The enriched structure–activity relationship may pave the way to find more effective anti‐mycobacterial candidates.
Net nitrogen mineralization and enzyme activities in an alpine meadow soil amended with litter tannins
Authors: Zong Wenzhen , Wang Jing , He Yongsheng , Qiu Yifan , Guo Ding , Fu Hua
Published: October 2018

Condensed tannins in plant litter play an important role in soil nitrogen (N) cycling at the plant–soil interface. However, how soil net N mineralization is affected by litter tannins through their interactions with soil enzymes remains unclear. The aims of our study are to explore the effects of litter tannins with different structures on soil net N mineralization and on the activities of soil enzymes that are directly or indirectly related to N mineralization. Soils were collected from a Tibetan alpine meadow community dominated by a tannin‐rich forb species, Polygonum viviparum. Condensed tannins purified from the litter were separated into the light‐fraction and heavy‐fraction tannins, with the former having a lower mean degree of polymerization and a higher prodelphinidin:procyanidin (PD:PC) monomer ratio in the structure than the latter. Soils were amended with the light‐fraction, heavy‐fraction, and unfractionated tannins, and then incubated for four weeks. The dynamics of soil enzyme activities and soil net N mineralization were monitored during the incubation. The results show that among the enzyme activities tested, the activities of laccase and peroxidase were significantly inhibited by the three tannins, whereas the activity of polyphenol oxidase was only significantly suppressed by the heavy‐fraction tannins. The overall activity of urease was not significantly affected by the tannin additions. In contrast, the activity of N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase was significantly enhanced by the three tannins. These results suggest that the interactions between litter tannins and soil enzymes rely on both the structure of the tannins and the type of enzymes. Soil net N mineralization was significantly decreased by the three tannins, which could be attributed to the decreased net ammonification and increased immobilization of inorganic N. The light‐fraction tannins caused a more pronounced inhibitory effect on soil net N mineralization than the heavy‐fraction and unfractionated tannins, probably due to the stronger interaction of the PD monomers with soil enzymes and soil organic N compounds than the PC monomers. Overall, this study indicates that litter tannins with different structures could exert different effects on the activities of soil enzymes as well as on soil net N mineralization, which is important for interpreting the role of different litter tannins in N cycling at the plant–soil interface.
Renewable Surfactants for Biochemical Applications and Nanotechnology
Authors: Le Guenic Sarah , Chaveriat Ludovic , Lequart Vincent , Joly Nicolas , Martin Patrick
Published: October 2018

Surfactants find applications in almost every chemical industry, such as household and industrial cleaning, paper, inks, agrochemicals, and personal care or pharmaceuticals. However, their production and use can have a negative impact on the environment and health. Increasing environmental concerns and the strong interest in renewable resources have led to the development of innovative and environmentally friendly surfactants produced by clean and/or sustainable technologies. The aim of this review is to explore the different types of surfactants and their architectures. Then, it will describe the two categories of renewable surfactants: biosurfactants obtained by fermentation, and bio‐based surfactants containing either a bio‐sourced polar head group or a bio‐sourced hydrophobic tail. Finally, this review will focus on highly specialized applications of surfactants (protein crystallization, transfection, and nanotechnology), which are closely related to the ability of surfactants to organize themselves in supramolecular architectures.
Returns on different types of investment in the global pharmaceutical industry
Authors: Mahlich Jörg , Yurtoglu B. Burcin
Published: October 2018

Using stock market data of 10,550 publicly listed companies between 1987 and 2012, we study the marginal returns on investment for a large sample of pharmaceutical firms and compare them with returns on investment of firms from other industries. We also disentangle effects of different types of investments on total returns, namely, investment in advertising, research and development (R&D), fixed capital, and acquisitions. Our results suggest that the return of pharmaceutical companies on total investments is higher compared with a large number of nonpharmaceutical companies for the U.S. subsample in the first half of the observation period whereas no such difference can be found for non‐U.S. firms. We also find that the return–cost ratio has declined during our observation period, with the biggest drop for European firms. R&D investments generate the highest, and advertising investments the lowest returns.
An estimation of NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision demand as a two‐part tariff
Authors: Brook Stacey L.
Published: October 2018

College football is one of the highest revenue generators for university athletic departments, and revenue from attendance is one of the major football revenue sources. This paper seeks to estimate the demand for Football Bowl Subdivision (Division I) college football using athletic department supplied financial information. I find that Football Bowl Subdivision athletic department's price spectator demand is consistent with two‐part tariffs.
Location, faculty credentials drive grad school choice
Authors: Waller Mary
Published: October 2018

After getting her bachelor's degree in theater from Ramapo College of New Jersey in 2015, Ashlee Morel took a year off from school. Realizing what she wanted to do in her career and feeling that a B.A. wasn't enough, she was ready to get her master's degree. “I knew that between undergrad and grad school, I needed the year to really figure myself out before committing fully to going to school for another two to three years.” Her original plan for her year off didn't pan out though; Morel was going to teach abroad, but unfortunately had to stay home.
Support adult learners on campus with more than free tuition
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: October 2018

“Nobody's story is exactly the same, and we shouldn't expect it to be. But in higher education, we like to prepackage people, plop them into a certain path. It doesn't always work,” said Melissa Duff, executive director of the Student Success Center at Walters State Community College in Morristown, Tennessee. That problem is one of the great benefits of community college for adult learners, Duff said — there's often more flexibility in working around full lives than at other types of institutions.
Development agencies of the future: The limits of adaptation
Authors: Lundsgaarde Erik , Fejerskov Adam Moe
Published: October 2018

The analysis of the future of development agencies commonly adopts a view that the adaptability of agencies to a set of external challenges in the global development landscape determines their fitness for the future. This article offers alternative entry points for reflections on the future role of development agencies in managing global challenges. It argues that recent analysis focusing on agency adaptation has two key limitations. First, it does not adequately account for the existing diversity of organizational forms and the differences in the functions that development agencies assume. Second, it does not acknowledge that agency adaptation can reflect organizational dynamics involving the pursuit of sustained legitimacy rather than a rational response to external challenges. As a consequence, agencies encouraged to change in order to maintain relevance may extend their engagement to areas where they lack expertise, implying a tradeoff between organizational adaptation and effectiveness. The article concludes that further analysis of possible trajectories for development agencies should emphasize the place of organizations within a domestic and international division of labor and the varied strengths of current organizational alternatives to orient future decisions on how to invest in the infrastructure for global cooperation.
Enhanced CO2 transport through rod‐shaped Al2O3 nanoparticles for ionic liquid composite membranes
Authors: Jeon Hyunsik , Kang Sang Wook
Published: October 2018

Highly selective composite membranes were prepared using 1‐butyl‐3‐methyl imidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMIM+BF4−) and rod‐shaped aluminum oxide onto polysulfone support. The BMIM+BF4−/ rod‐shaped Al2O3 composite membrane with 50‐nm nanoparticles (NPs) showed a CO2 permeance of 39.3 GPU and a CO2/N2 selectivity of 43.7. Rod‐like 50‐nm NPs in ionic liquids showed better performance than spherical 13‐nm NPs in membranes using the same weight ratio and same support. These results indicate that the shape of the NPs has a greater effect on CO2 transport than the size of the NPs. The chemical and physical properties of this composite membrane were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:2954–2958, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Validity of web‐based self‐assessment of pubertal development against pediatrician assessments
Authors: Peng Xiaoxia , Peng Yaguang , Li Yuchuan , Nie Xiaolu , Gong Chunxiu , Wu Di , Ni Xin
Published: October 2018

Importance

A web‐based instrument for self‐assessment of puberty could be convenient and feasible for large‐scale multicenter population‐based epidemiological studies for Tanner stages evaluation.

Objective

To validate web‐based self‐assessment of pubertal development against assessment by a pediatrician.

Methods

Outpatients aged 8–18 years were consecutively recruited in the endocrinology department of Beijing Children's Hospital from October 2016 to August 2017. A web‐based self‐assessment instrument for pubertal development was introduced to participants by an appointed pediatrician. Tanner stage of puberty was self‐assessed by participants in a private environment. Participants were then examined by a senior pediatrician underwent blinded assessment. Weighted kappa and Spearman correlation analyses were conducted to evaluate agreement. The accuracy of the web‐based instrument for self‐assessment of pubertal onset was evaluated according to sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value

Results

A total of 174 participants (including 82 girls and 92 boys) were assessed consecutively. Correlation coefficients were 0.872 for pubic hair and 0.933 for testicular volume (P<0.001) among boys; a similar result was obtained for the weighted kappa value (0.825). For girls, the correlation coefficient and weighted kappa for pubic hair was 0.785 and 0.878, respectively. However, breast self‐assessment had a medium level of agreement with pediatrician assessment (weighted kappa, 0.495; correlation coefficient, 0.643). Moreover, the accuracy of self‐assessment in children aged 10 years or above was better than that in children aged less than 10 years.

Interpretation

Assessment of pubertal development using a web‐based self‐assessment instrument could be less accurate among children aged less than 10 years, especially for girls’ breast assessment. Therefore, self‐assessment of pubertal development, especially for breast development, should be interpreted cautiously.
Improving pediatric resident laryngoscopy training through the use of a video laryngoscope
Authors: Lilitwat Weerapong , McInnes Andrew , Chauhan Jigar
Published: October 2018

Importance

Opportunities for pediatric residents to perform direct laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation (DLTI) are few and the success rate is low.

Objective

We hypothesize that incorporation of video laryngoscope (McGrath MAC) into pediatric residents DLTI simulation course will improve the simulated DLTI success rate.

Methods

Residents were given 3 attempts at DLTI: (1) baseline using a conventional laryngoscope (CL); (2) using a video laryngoscope (VL); and (3) again using the CL. Residents were given up to 120 seconds to complete each DLTI attempt. Time to successful DLTI was collected. Residents recorded their best view (larynx, epiglottis, vocal cords) with each DLTI attempt.

Results

Prior to the intervention, 15/17 (88.2%) and 16/17 (94.1%) of the participants reported prior exposure to DLTI as “less than 10 total attempts” in simulated and live patients respectively. Seventeen pediatric residents performed 51 DLTI attempts (34 with a CL and 17 with the VL). Success rates for DLTI are as follows: Baseline with CL 11/17 (64.7%), VL 12/17 (70.6%), and last attempt with CL 13/17 (76.5%) (P = 0.15). Compared to the baseline, the use of VL resulted in a shorter but non‐significant decrease in time to successful DLTI (Mean 34.2 sec [SD, 22.0] vs. 56.5 sec [SD, 40.2]; P = 0.08). Repeat attempts at DLTI with the CL, however, were significantly shorter than baseline (Mean 20.3 sec [SD, 12.8] vs. 56.5 sec [SD, 40.2]; P = 0.003). Using the VL, more residents could visualize the vocal cords compared to the baseline (14/17 [82.3%] vs. 9/17 [52.9%]; P = 0.03).

Interpretation

Repeated training is certainly a way to improve successful DLTI. Use of VL as a new teaching method led to greater visualization of the vocal cords, shortening operating time and raising self‐confidence.
Effect of graphite nanoplatelets on fracture behavior of HDPE/PA66 microfibrillar composites
Authors: Kelnar Ivan , Bal Ümitcan , Hodan Jiří , Kaprálková Ludmila , Krejčíková Sabina , Kotek Jiří
Published: October 2018

Effect of in situ formation of PA66 fibrils and modification with graphite nanoplatelets (GNP) on fracture behavior of the high‐density polyethylene (HDPE)‐matrix microfibrillar composites (MFC) has been evaluated using tensile impact strength (TIS) and J‐integral methods. According to J‐integral, the main mechanism of failure is unstable crack growth; dissimilar layout of both methods causes different contribution of reinforcement with GNP and PA66 fibrils to fracture process evaluated. More marked orientation and parallel loading lead to increase in impact energy by both GNP and fibrils in TIS; on the other hand, much lower contribution of fibres and even negative effect of GNP pre‐blended in HDPE was found for J‐integral as a consequence of load acting in perpendicular direction. The fact that lower addition of GNP pre‐blended in PA66 does not deteriorate impact behavior indicates that such modification of MFC is an efficient way to get materials with enhanced, well‐balanced parameters. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:382–388, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Damage mechanisms in a toughened acrylic resin: Effect of temperature and thermal history
Authors: Pini Tommaso , Castellani Leonardo , Briatico‐Vangosa Francesco , Frassine Roberto , Rink Marta
Published: October 2018

The effect of temperature on the damage mechanisms occurring in a toughened acrylic resin was investigated by studying volume changes during tensile tests, analyzing the reversibility of the damage after applying proper thermal histories and by direct transmission electron microscope observations. It was found that an increase of temperature, from 0°C to 60°C, shifts the predominant mechanism from crazing to cavitation and shear yielding. When the latter occur, the material response is very susceptible to previous thermal treatments; and in particular to the cooling rate from above glass transition temperature. Crazing on the other hand is not influenced by the thermal history of the material. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:566–572, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Proteomic Analysis of Extracellular Vesicles for Cancer Diagnostics
Authors: Wu Anthony Yan‐Tang , Ueda Koji , Lai Charles Pin‐Kuang
Published: October 2018

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) including exosomes and microvesicles are lipid bilayer‐encapsulated nanoparticles released by cells, ranging from 40 nm to several microns in diameter. Biological cargoes including proteins, RNAs, and DNAs can be ferried by EVs to neighboring and distant cells via biofluids, serving as a means of cell‐to‐cell communication under normal and pathological conditions, especially cancers. On the other hand, EVs have been investigated as a novel “information capsule” for early disease detection and monitoring via liquid biopsy. This review summarizes current advancements in EV subtype characterization, cancer EV capture, proteomic analysis technologies, as well as possible EV‐based multiomics for cancer diagnostics.
Dual Management of Electrons and Photons to Get High‐Performance Light Emitting Devices Based on Si Nanowires and Si Quantum Dots with Al2O3‐Ag Hybrid Nanostructures
Authors: Ji Yang , Lin Zewen , Liu Xiaolong , Liu Jian , Yang Huafeng , Li Dongke , Liu Jingjing , Xu Jun , Li Wei , Chen Kunji
Published: October 2018

Silicon quantum dot (Si QD)‐based light emitting devices are fabricated on Si nanowire (Si NW) arrays. Through inserting Al2O3‐Ag hybrid nanostructures (Al2O3‐Ag HNs) between Si NWs and Si QDs, both photoluminescence (PL) and electroluminescence (EL) are remarkably enhanced compared to the control sample. The PL enhancement can be mainly attributed to passivation effect of Al2O3 to p‐type Si NWs and enlarged absorption cross‐section due to the local surface plasmon resonance effect of Ag nanoparticles. The EL intensity is enhanced by 14.9‐fold at the same injection current under a lower applied voltage, which may result from the high injection efficiency of electrons and the promoted waveguide effect of nanowire structures with Al2O3‐Ag HNs. It is demonstrated that light emitting device performances can be well improved by careful management of both electrons and photons via controlling the interface conditions of Si NWs/Si QDs.
Localized Photoluminescence Imaging of Bi‐Layered Cuprous/Cupric Oxide Semiconductor Films by Synchrotron Radiation
Authors: Kobayashi Masakazu , Izaki Masanobu , Shinagawa Tsutomu , Takeuchi Akihisa , Uesugi Kentaro
Published: October 2018

To develop multi‐layered semiconductor film devices, like a solar cell device, effects of localized impurities and layered interface mismatches on photovoltaic properties should be understood quantitatively and controlled effectively. However, the research of localized photoluminescence on layered semiconductor film devices is delayed. This is because, unfortunately, a measurement method for photoluminescence properties with spatial resolution on the sub‐micron scale, which could provide much of the local photoluminescence properties in bulk multi‐layered film semiconductor devices, has not been developed. In this study, a mapping method for local photoluminescence properties has been developed by utilizing a focused synchrotron radiation beam to evaluate localized photoluminescence affected by microstructures in bi‐layered semiconductor films. Luminescence maps of copper oxide semiconductor film which varies in emission energy and position are successfully obtained under the conditions of a focused beam size of 5 μm in width and 300 nm in height. The possibility of investigation for localized photoluminescence related with the microstructure is strongly suggested. This technique will support and enhance the development of high‐performance multi‐layered semiconductor film devices.
Separation in D‐optimal experimental designs for the logistic regression model
Authors: Park Anson R. , Mancenido Michelle V. , Montgomery Douglas C.
Published: October 2018

The D‐optimality criterion is often used in computer‐generated experimental designs when the response of interest is binary, such as when the attribute of interest can be categorized as pass or fail. The majority of methods in the generation of D‐optimal designs focus on logistic regression as the base model for relating a set of experimental factors with the binary response. Despite the advances in computational algorithms for calculating D‐optimal designs for the logistic regression model, very few have acknowledged the problem of separation, a phenomenon where the responses are perfectly separable by a hyperplane in the design space. Separation causes one or more parameters of the logistic regression model to be inestimable via maximum likelihood estimation. The objective of this paper is to investigate the tendency of computer‐generated, nonsequential D‐optimal designs to yield separation in small‐sample experimental data. Sets of local D‐optimal and Bayesian D‐optimal designs with different run (sample) sizes are generated for several “ground truth” logistic regression models. A Monte Carlo simulation methodology is then used to estimate the probability of separation for each design. Results of the simulation study confirm that separation occurs frequently in small‐sample data and that separation is more likely to occur when the ground truth model has interaction and quadratic terms. Finally, the paper illustrates that different designs with identical run sizes created from the same model can have significantly different chances of encountering separation.
Synthesis and characterization of eight single chain length chlorinated paraffin standards and their use for quantification
Authors: Sprengel Jannik , Vetter Walter
Published: October 2018

Rationale

Quantification of chlorinated paraffins (CPs) via gas chromatography coupled with electron capture negative ionization low‐resolution mass spectrometry (GC/ECNI‐MS) is a very common practice, although the quality of the results has been disputed due to insufficient mass resolution and the strong impact of the degree of chlorination on the GC/ECNI‐MS response.

Methods

For further tests we synthesized eight single chain length CP standards (C10–C17) with chlorine contents between 51.1% and 61.3%. The individual single chain length standards, 1 + 1 mixtures of two chain length standards and self‐prepared mixtures of short‐chain and medium‐chain CPs were quantified by linear regression according to a previously reported method (method 1) as well as by exponential regression (method 2).

Results

Concentrations obtained from single chain length CP standards deviated between −74% and 152% from the target value. However, the error became smaller when self‐prepared CP mixes with two and four chain lengths were analysed. For short‐chain CP (SCCP) mixture analysis, both methods produced good results (<25% deviation from the target value). In the case of medium‐chain CP (MCCP) mixtures, however, method 2 (17–34% deviation) was more accurate than method 1 (43–52% deviation).

Conclusions

Both methods 1 and 2 are fit for GC/ECNI‐MS analysis of SCCP mixtures, while the improved method 2 is recommended for quantification of MCCP mixtures.
What's in a whisker? Disentangling ecological and physiological isotopic signals
Authors: McHuron Elizabeth A. , Holser Rachel R. , Costa Daniel P.
Published: October 2018

Rationale

Stable isotope analysis of keratinized tissues is an informative tool for quantifying foraging ecology that can address questions related to niche specialization and temporal variation in behavior. Application of this approach relies on an understanding of tissue growth and how isotope ratios relate to physiological and ecological processes, data that are lacking for many species.

Methods

We collected paired whisker length measurements from northern elephant seals to estimate growth and shedding patterns (n = 16). A subset of seals (n = 5) carried a satellite tag and time–depth recorder across the 7+ month foraging trip following the annual pelage molt. Stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen were measured in whisker segments grown across the 6+ week fasting on land and the subsequent foraging trip; profiles were combined with growth parameters to timestamp each segment and investigate relationships with foraging behavior.

Results

Whisker loss and initial regrowth primarily occurred during the annual pelage molt, but newly grown whiskers exhibited active, nonlinear growth across the foraging trip. The δ13C and δ15N values were higher in segments grown on land than at sea and exhibited a characteristic decline upon departure from the rookery. There was a relationship between latitude and longitude and δ15N values, and individual whisker segments grown at sea could be classified to the correct ecoregion with 81% accuracy.

Conclusions

Fasting affected both δ13C and δ15N values and the ability to exclude these values from ecological investigations is crucial given the temporal overlap with tissue growth. The rapid decline in isotope ratios upon departure can be used to isolate portions of the whisker with a strong physiological signal, even for whiskers with unknown growth histories. The active growth across the foraging trip combined with the ability to identify differences in foraging behavior validates the utility of this approach for addressing ecological questions.
Reconsidering mass spectrometric fragmentation in electron ionization mass spectrometry – new insights from recent instrumentation and isotopic labelling exemplified by ketoprofen and related compounds
Authors: Assaf Jaber , Kollmeier Annette Sophie , Müller Christian , Parr Maria Kristina
Published: October 2018

Rationale

In various fields of chemical analyses, structurally unknown analytes are considered. Proper structure confirmation may be challenged by the low amounts of analytes that are available, e.g. in early stage drug development, in metabolism studies, in toxicology or in environmental analyses. In these cases, mass spectrometric techniques are often used to build up structure proposals for these unknowns. Fragmentation reactions in mass spectrometry are known to follow definite pathways that may help to assign structural elements by fragment ion recognition. This work illustrates an investigation of fragmentation reactions for gas chromatography/electron ionization mass spectrometric characterization of benzophenone derivatives using the analgesic drug ketoprofen and seven of its related compounds as model compounds.

Methods

Deuteration and 18O‐labelling experiments along with high‐resolution accurate mass and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) were used to further elucidate fragmentation pathways and to substantiate rationales for structure assignments. Low‐energy ionization was investigated to increase confidence in the identity of the molecular ion.

Results

The high‐resolution mass analyses yielded unexpected differences that led to reconsideration of the proposals. Site‐specific isotopic labelling helped to directly trace back fragment ions to their respective structural elements. The proposed fragmentation pathways were substantiated by MS/MS experiments.

Conclusions

The described method may offer a perspective to increase the level of confidence in unknown analyses, where reference material is not (yet) available.
The lens of Brexit: Examining cultural divisions among Northern Ireland farmers
Authors: Ketonen Irene
Published: October 2018

This article seeks to add to our understanding of the public versus private behavioral dichotomy in Northern Ireland by examining the underlying system of moralities. I argue that two sets of values, a “public” and a “private” one, exist within the Northern Ireland farming community. According to public values, it is more important to be a “good person” (honest, caring, hardworking) than a Protestant or Catholic. In contrast, the system of private values acknowledges the significance of ethnoreligious identities to economic and social relationships. Knowing when to use each set of values is a form of Northern Ireland cultural intimacy. I use the lens of a potential Brexit, as imagined by farmers in 2013–14, to examine these opposing moralities. Providing more depth to participants' views of the European Union (EU) and each other, I discuss their interactions at the Farmers' Advice Center. Both Protestants and Catholics identified England as a place of industry and Ireland as a place of agriculture. No one said that his or her views were influenced by ethnoreligious identity. However, most Protestants stated that Northern Ireland could produce “domestic” food for the United Kingdom with a national subsidy. Catholics believed that farmers benefit from EU subsidies and would benefit even more if they lived in a member state supportive of agriculture, such as the Republic of Ireland. The theory of internal colonialism, in which peripheral countries (Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales) provide resources to England, illuminates participants' political views.
Preparation and adhesive properties of colored Ti/Zr‐based conversion coating on aluminum foil for lithium battery packaging
Authors: Gu Yingying , Wang Songnan , Xu Shiai
Published: October 2018

In this study, an aluminum (Al) foil used for lithium ion battery packaging film was treated with titanium (Ti)/zirconium (Zr) solution containing hexafluorotitanic acid and hexafluorozirconic acid using tannic acid as a colorant and metavanadate as an accelerator, respectively, and a golden conversion coating was successfully deposited on the surface of Al foil. The morphology and composition of the coating were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and the hydrophilicity was assessed by contact angle measurement. The effect of Ti/Zr treatment on the adhesion properties of Al foil was evaluated by T‐peeling test and compared with that of traditional chromate‐phosphate treatment. The results show that tannic acid contributes to the formation of the golden coating, and metavanadate accelerates the formation of the conversion coating. The results also indicate that the Ti/Zr‐based conversion coating is mainly composed of Al2O3, Al (OH)3, AlF3, TiO2/ZrO2, NH4VO3, and V2O5. The Ti/Zr treatment cannot only improve the heat‐sealing strength, but also the T‐peeling strength by approximately 12 times compared with that of untreated Al foil. Thus, Ti/Zr treatment has the potential to replace the traditional chromate conversion treatment.
Novel Concept to Endow Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) Surfaces with Reactive Surface Groups
Authors: Ziegler Lisa , Simon Frank , Boldt Regine , Reuter Uta , Janke Andreas , Zimmerer Cordelia
Published: October 2018

The surface modification of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) moldings with poly(vinylamine) (PVAm) was performed to produce a novel composite material with a reactive surface, which can be subsequently functionalized to be (bio)compatible. The synthetic potential of the composite material was achieved by endowing the surface with a high density of primary amino groups. To graft the PVAm layer onto PMMA, an interlayer of polymerized dopamine (PDA) was deposited on the PMMA surface. This PDA layer acted as a reactive adhesion promoter. When varying the oxidizing agents, the oxidative polymerization of dopamine was extensively studied concerning deposition rate and homogeneity. Dess‐Martin periodinane possess a mean PDA deposition rate of 14.6 nm⋅h−1 and was the well suited oxidizing agent. The composite surfaces were characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS). The phenomenological surface properties were studied by electrokinetic measurements.
Smart Hydrogel Microfluidics for Single‐Cell Multiplexed Secretomic Analysis with High Sensitivity
Authors: Hsu Myat Noe , Wei Shih‐Chung , Guo Song , Phan Dinh‐Tuan , Zhang Yong , Chen Chia‐Hung
Published: October 2018

Secreted proteins determine a range of cellular functionalities correlated with human health and disease progression. Because of cell heterogeneity, it is essential to measure low abundant protein secretions from individual cells to determine single‐cell activities. In this study, an integrated platform consisting of smart hydrogel immunosensors for the sensitive detection of single‐cell secretions is developed. A single cell and smart hydrogel microparticles are encapsulated within a droplet. After incubation, target secreted proteins from the cell are captured in the smart hydrogel particle for immunoassay. The temperature‐induced volume phase transition of the hydrogel biosensor allows the concentration of analytes within the gel matrix to increase, enabling high‐sensitivity measurements. Distinct heterogeneity for live cell secretions is determined from 6000 cells within 1 h. This method is tested for low abundant essential secretions, such as interleukin‐6, interleukin‐8, and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 secretions of both suspended cells (HL60) and adherent cells (MCF7 and MDA‐MB‐231). This platform is highly flexible and can be used to simultaneously measure a wide range of clinically relevant cellular secretions; it thus represents a novel tool for precise biological assays.
Starch Characterization of Improved Chickpea Varieties Grown in Mexico
Authors: Yniestra Marure Lucero M. , Núñez‐Santiago M. Carmen , Agama‐Acevedo Edith , Bello‐Perez Luis A.
Published: October 2018

Starch isolated from four chickpea varieties harvested in Mexico is studied for its morphological, structural, molecular, physicochemical, and digestion features. The isolated chickpea starches had residual protein (2.0%) and high amylose content (36–41%). The chickpea starch granules have a round shape and some granules exhibit cavities and crevices. The pasting profiles show moderate swelling of the starch granules and low breakdown, but the setback is high, which is a pattern related to the high amylose content. The gelatinization range is approximately 16 °C, with an enthalpy value between 8 and 12 J · g−1. Amylose and amylopectin have molar masses of 2.5 × 105 g · mol−1 and 2.0 × 108 g · mol−1, respectively. Amylopectin in chickpeas has the highest intermediate chain amount (degree of polymerization of 13–24), a pattern that is related to the C‐type X‐ray diffraction pattern and, consequently, to the high resistant starch (RS) content, which is maintained after cooking. Overall, the starch present in chickpea varieties shows potential for the development of foods with a gel texture and high RS and slow digestive starch (SDS) contents after cooking.
Water operator partnerships: Peer learning and the politics of solidarity in water and sanitation service provision
Authors: Beck Andrea
Published: October 2018

The limitations of public–private partnerships as a way to finance and manage water and sanitation systems in developing countries have become increasingly evident since the 2000s. In response, scholars have begun to inquire about “alternatives to privatization,” with a focus on strengthening social equity and universality in access to essential services. Among the alternatives discussed are so‐called Water Operator Partnerships (WOPs), which have been promoted globally since 2006 with support from the United Nations. Today, more than 200 such peer‐learning partnerships have been formed between water and sanitation operators around the world. Yet, academic research on WOPs is still in its infancy. This article reviews the existing literature on WOPs, addressing their origins and their global evolution, along with key controversies surrounding private‐sector involvement. Relying on self‐reported WOPs data from a global online database, it further illustrates the North–South distribution and the different spatial scales of peer partnerships to date. What emerges from the analysis is that WOPs have become a proliferating, yet insufficiently understood, partnership modality in the water sector. In identifying entry points for future research, the article suggests that the comparative study of WOPs can shed new light on transnational partnerships, South–South cooperation, and the politics of solidarity in water and sanitation service provision.

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Sustainable Engineering of Water

Human Water > Water Governance

Human Water > Rights to Water
TORC1‐signalling is down‐regulated in Saccharomyces cerevisiaehsp30Δ cells by SNF1‐dependent mechanisms
Authors: Singh Ajeet , Chowdhury Daipayan , Gupta Avinash , Meena Ramesh Chand , Chakrabarti Amitabha
Published: October 2018

Hsp30 is a plasma membrane localized heat shock protein in Saccharomyces cerevisiae whose expression is induced by numerous environmental stressors. Elucidation of its mechanism of action has remained elusive primarily because hsp30Δ cells do not show a strong phenotype. To identify cellular functions associated with Hsp30, we thus compared the transcriptome of BY4741hsp30Δ with that of its wild type counterpart. Our studies indicate down‐regulation of the target of rapamycin complex 1 (TORC1)‐dependent gene‐expression programme in hsp30Δ cells. We further show that TORC1‐signalling through its effectors (Sch9 and Tap42) was down‐regulated in the deletion strain. Specifically, (a) phosphorylation levels of Sch9 were lower and nuclear exclusion of Rim15 (Sch9‐downstream function) was overridden in hsp30Δ cells, (b) membrane association of Tor1 and Tap42 was lower in hsp30Δ cells, and (c) Tap42‐downstream functions were abrogated in the deletion strain. Furthermore, transcription factors Rtg1, Rtg3, Gat1, and Gln3 were localized in the nucleus of the hsp30Δ as observed upon inactivation of TORC1. Studies aimed at determining how TORC1‐signalling is down‐regulated in hsp30Δ cells indicated that total reducing sugar levels were lower and ADP:ATP ratio was higher in hsp30Δ cells —conditions known to activate the Snf1 kinase and consequently to the inactivation of TORC1. We thus determined if TORC1‐signalling could be restored in hsp30Δ cells upon the deletion of SNF1. Sch9 phosphorylation levels (TORC1‐signalling) was restored to wild type levels in hsp30Δsnf1Δ cells. TORC1‐signalling is thus down‐regulated in hsp30Δ cells by SNF1‐dependent mechanisms. A probable role for Hsp30 is discussed.