bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
N‐Heterocyclic Olefin‐Ligated Palladium(II) Complexes as Pre‐Catalysts for Buchwald–Hartwig Aminations
Authors: Watson Ian C. , Schumann André , Yu Haoyang , Davy Emma C. , McDonald Robert , Ferguson Michael J. , Hering‐Junghans Christian , Rivard Eric
Published: May 2019

New N‐heterocyclic olefins (NHOs) are described with functionalization on the ligand heterocyclic backbone and terminal alkylidene positions. Various PdII–NHO complexes have been formed and their use as pre‐catalysts in Buchwald–Hartwig aminations was explored. The most active system for catalytic C−N bond formation between hindered arylamine and arylhalide substrates was accessed by combining a backbone methylated NHO with [Pd(cinnamyl)Cl]2 in the presence of NaOtBu as a base. In these active systems evidence suggests that catalysis is mediated by colloidal palladium metal, highlighting a different coordination ability of NHOs in comparison with commonly used N‐heterocyclic carbene co‐ligands.
Intrinsic Photophysics of Light‐harvesting Charge‐tagged Chlorophyll a and b Pigments
Authors: Gruber Elisabeth , Kjær Christina , Nielsen Steen Brøndsted , Andersen Lars H.
Published: May 2019

Chlorophylls a and b (Chla/b) are responsible for light‐harvesting by photosynthetic proteins in plants. They display broad absorption in the visible region with multiple bands, due to the asymmetry of the macrocycle and strong vibronic coupling. Their photophysics relies on the microenvironment, with regard to transition energies as well as quenching of triplet states. Here, we firmly establish the splitting of the Q and Soret bands into x‐ and y‐ polarized bands for the isolated molecules in vacuo, and resolve vibronic features. Storage‐ring experiments reveal that dissociation of photoexcited charge‐tagged complexes occurs over several milliseconds, but with two different time constants. A fast decay is ascribed to dissociation after internal conversion and a slow decay to the population of a triplet state that acts as a bottleneck. Support for the latter is provided by pump‐probe experiments, where a second laser pulse probes the long‐lived triplet state.
Insights into the Functionalization of the Methylsalicyclic Moiety during the Biosynthesis of Chlorothricin by Comparative Kinetic Assays of the Activities of Two KAS III‐like Acyltransferases
Authors: Yi Xuan , Zhao Qunfei , Tian Zhenhua , Jia Xinying , Cao Weiguo , Liu Wen , He Qing‐Li
Published: May 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

Chlorothricin (CHL), an archetypal member of the family of spirotetronate antibiotics, possesses a tetronate‐containing pentacyclic aglycone that is conjugated with a modified methylsalicyclic acid (MSA) moiety through a disaccharide linkage. MSA is a polyketide product assembled by the iterative type I polyketide synthase ChlB1. Incorporation of this pharmaceutically important moiety into CHL relies on the activities of two distinct β‐Ketoacyl‐ACP synthase III (KAS III)‐like acyltransferases, ChlB3 and ChlB6, which function together to coordinate the transfer of MSA through ChlB2, a discrete acyl carrier protein (ACP). During the maturation of CHL, MSA needs to be further functionalized by C2‐O‐methylation and C5‐chlorination; however, timing of this functionalization process remains poorly understood. In this study, we report comparative kinetic assays of the activities of the two KAS III‐like acyltransferases ChlB3 and ChlB6 using substrates that vary in substitution extent and ACP carrier. ChlB3 prefers to transfer the immediately assembled 6‐methyl‐MSA moiety from ChlB1‐ACP to the discrete ACP ChlB2, from which this moiety is preferred to be transferred directly onto the molecule desmethylsalicyl‐CHL prior to C2‐O‐methylation and C5‐chlorination. Consequently, MSA functionalization appears to occur at the molecule level rather than at the covalently tethered protein level, i.e., ChlB1‐ACP or ChlB2. Both ChlB3 and ChlB6 are flexible in substrate tolerance, holding promise for CHL engineering‐based structural diversity by using variable MSA moiety.
Deuteron Solid‐State NMR Relaxation Measurements Reveal Two Distinct Conformational Exchange Processes in the Disordered N‐Terminal Domain of Amyloid‐β Fibrils
Authors: Vugmeyster Liliya , Au Dan Fai , Ostrovsky Dmitry , Fu Riqiang
Published: May 2019

We employed deuterium solid‐state NMR techniques under static conditions to discern the details of the μs–ms timescale motions in the flexible N‐terminal subdomain of Aβ1–40 amyloid fibrils, which spans residues 1–16. In particular, we utilized a rotating frame (R1ρ) and the newly developed time domain quadrupolar Carr‐Purcell‐Meiboom‐Gill (QCPMG) relaxation measurements at the selectively deuterated side chains of A2, H6, and G9. The two experiments are complementary in terms of probing somewhat different timescales of motions, governed by the tensor parameters and the sampling window of the magnetization decay curves. The results indicated two mobile “free” states of the N‐terminal domain undergoing global diffusive motions, with isotropic diffusion coefficients of 0.7−1 ⋅ 108 and 0.3−3 ⋅ 106ad2 s−1. The free states are also involved in the conformational exchange with a single bound state, in which the diffusive motions are quenched, likely due to transient interactions with the structured hydrophobic core. The conformational exchange rate constants are 2−3 ⋅ 105 s−1 and 2−3 ⋅ 104 s−1 for the fast and slow diffusion free states, respectively.
Generalization of Acid‐Base Diagrams Based on the Unified pH‐Scale
Authors: Kahlert Heike , Leito Ivo
Published: May 2019

So far, pH‐lgci diagrams have been exclusively used for the theoretical description of acid‐base equilibria in aqueous solutions. Here, this approach is extended to include acid‐base equilibria in nonaqueous non‐hydrogen‐bond‐donor (non‐HBD) solvents following the acid‐base theory of Brønsted and Lowry, and using a unified pH scale (pHabs scale). This way, it is possible to estimate the approximate concentrations of all the species involved in acid‐base equilibria in a solution at any solution acidity
, and vice versa. The diagrams are excellent to illustrate the differences in behavior of species involved in the solution equilibria in different solvents, for example, an aqueous solution of acetic acid is an acidic solution; however, the same concentration of acetic acid in DMSO has a
value of about 10.6, that is, it is a basic solution with reference to the aqueous pH scale.
Benzodithiophenedione‐Based Conjugated Microporous Polymer Catalysts for Aerobic Oxidation Reactions Driven by Visible‐Light
Authors: Zhang He , Huang Qiao , Zhang Weijie , Pan Chunyue , Wang Jie , Ai Chenxiang , Tang Juntao , Yu Guipeng
Published: May 2019

Searching for catalysts that are cost‐effective, efficient, recyclable and capable of harvesting light for aerobic oxidation reactions remains a challenge for material scientists. Herein, we have designed and developed a task‐specified heterogeneous photocatalyst, which was built by a two‐step reaction starting from a commercially available compound named benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′] dithiophene‐4,8‐dione (BDD). Through the molecular engineering strategy integrating an electron‐output BDD, the obtained BDD‐based conjugated microporous polymer (CMP‐BDD) exhibits efficient visible light absorption due to the incorporation of a BDD moiety and an extended π‐conjugated structure. Remarkably, the CMP‐BDD showed an effective heterogeneous catalytic activity for typical oxidative organic transformations, such as selective oxidation of organic sulfides, and thiocyanation of imidazoheterocycles in the presence of light and oxygen. In addition, the CMP‐BDD exhibited good recyclability in the photocatalytic oxidation of thioanisole, which can be used for at least five times without substantial decline in photocatalytic activity, demonstrating its promising potential in industrial applications.
How corporate social (ir)responsibility in the textile sector is defined, and its impact on ethical sustainability: An analysis of 133 concepts
Authors: Luque Arturo , Herrero‐García Noelia
Published: May 2019

Transnational textile companies claim to have put in a place processes of corporate social responsibility to promote ethical behaviour in regard to the economy, environment, and populations within which they operate. However, their true conduct, behind the mask of marketing campaigns, may be better defined as corporate social irresponsibility. The objective of this study was to analyze and explore the processes of CSiR within the textile sector as being the rule and not the exception. A broad review of the available literature was carried out, both as a literal and conceptual analysis, covering 133 approaches to the hitherto undefined concept of CSiR. In addition, a Google frequency count was performed, with a saturated categorization using the five dimensions into which the CSiR processes are concentrated: ethical, legal, social, economic, and environmental. The methodology used was based on a higher order association of these hierarchies, for which a triad model was established, allowing the most representative combinations to be identified. This methodology demonstrated that the environmental dimension is of residual character, while allowing the definitions of greater weight and scope to be extracted. From these, it was inferred that the current concept of CSiR is best defined in a three‐fold legal‐social‐ethical category, based on its frequency of use in Google, its effective application, and scope. The definition provided by this study may contribute to the improvement of the ethical processes of entrepreneurship and CSR by highlighting their taxonomy of inconsistencies, rather than focusing on the preconceived benefits of their actions.
Awakening Solar Hydrogen Evolution of MoS2 in Alkalescent Electrolyte through Doping with Co
Authors: Jia Yulong , Wang Zhonghao , Wang Luyang , Ma Ying , Wang Guannan , Lin Yinhe , Hu Xun , Zhang Kan
Published: May 2019

Transition metal dichalcogenides, especially MoS2, have been regarded as promising cocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) because of a near‐zero Gibbs free energy for H+ absorption. However, the HER activity of MoS2 is profoundly restricted by acidic media. Co‐doped MoS2 (Co‐MoS2) nanosheets are found to enable the highly efficient solar H2 evolution of CdS nanowires (NWs) in alkalescent electrolyte. The content of Co in MoS2 is optimized to 2.8 % and the Co‐MoS2 content in Co‐MoS2/CdS NWs hybrids is 2.5 wt %; the optimized Co‐MoS2/CdS NWs shows a high H2 evolution rate of 14.22 mmol g−1 h−1 and 71 % apparent quantum efficiency in the Na2SO3 electrolyte. Moreover, the H2 generation enabled by the Co‐MoS2 cocatalyst can exhibit universality in alkalescent electrolytes, such as triethanolamine (TEA) and disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), exhibiting greater photocatalytic H2 generation than Pt/CdS. The design of Co‐MoS2/CdS sheds light on the development of highly efficient low‐cost photocatalysts for solar H2 generation from water reduction.
Modulation of Polymeric Carbon Nitrides through Supramolecular Preorganization for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Yin Ling , Wang Sibo , Yang Can , Lyu Shihuan , Wang Xinchen
Published: May 2019

Supramolecular pre‐assembly by design is an effective strategy to adapt the physicochemical properties of polymeric carbon nitrides (PCNs) to improve their solar conversion performance. A new supramolecular preorganization protocol, which employs H2O as the self‐assembly medium and sodium persulfate as a modifier, is proposed to modulate the textural and photoelectronic features of PCNs for efficient visible‐light H2 evolution. Sodium persulfate is revealed to precisely tailor the final carbon nitride polymers with unusual porous layered structures and promoted charge separation and migration kinetics. As a result, the modulated PCNs with optimized structures show a greatly enriched activity for photocatalytic H2 generation compared to the analogous materials derived from melamine without the modifier.
Three‐phase voltage control method by single‐phase distributed generators connected to islanded distribution network
Authors: Yamane Keisuke , Iioka Daisuke , Saitoh Hiroumi
Published: May 2019

We have proposed a concept model of emergency islanded operation by using distributed generators (DGs) such as photovoltaics, electric vehicles, or batteries, which can provide power to customers via undamaged distribution network in order to develop the resilient power system against large disasters, and it is named Islanded Distribution Network (IDN). Since there is no guarantee that the three‐phase generation system is interconnected to the IDN, the single‐phase DGs that are installed in the distribution network may be treated as main generators in the IDN operation. If the IDN has only single‐phase DGs, it is difficult to regulate the three‐phase voltage within the allowable range and to compensate the unbalance voltage. The aim of this study is to develop the method to supply three‐phase balanced voltage by single‐phase generators in the IDN. First, the operating condition of the generators is proposed for the supply of three‐phase balanced voltage in the IDN model by algebra calculation. The control method for three single‐phase generators has been developed by using the conditions obtained from the derivation of the generators conditions.
Exploration of the Luminescence Properties of Organic Phosphate Salts of 3‐Quinoline‐ and 5‐Isoquinolineboronic Acid
Authors: Ruelas‐Alvarez Glenda Y. , Cárdenas‐Valenzuela A. Jaquelin , Cruz‐Enríquez Adriana , Höpfl Herbert , Campos‐Gaxiola José J. , Rodríguez‐Rivera Mario A. , Rodríguez‐Molina Braulio
Published: May 2019

3‐Quinoline‐ and 5‐isoquinolineboronic acids (3QBA and 5IQBA) were combined with 1‐naphthyl and diphenyl phosphate (1NP and DPP) to give three crystalline molecular salts of 1:1 stoichiometric composition, viz., 3QBA‐1NP, 5IQBA‐1NP and 3QBA‐DPP. The products were characterized by elemental analysis, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies, IR spectroscopy, luminescence spectroscopy and TG‐DSC measurements. The analysis of the solid‐state structures revealed that the molecular components are linked by strong charge‐assisted hydrogen bonds forming heterodimeric synthons of the type B(OH)2···–O2P and N+–H···O(P). In addition, the hydrogen phosphate salts derived from 1NP exhibit the homodimeric P(O)OH···O(HO)P synthon. The aggregates formed through the above‐mentioned hydrogen bonding motifs are further connected through π···π interactions, which involve mainly the aromatic rings of the quinolinium/isoquinolinium cations. The crystal structure analyses were accomplished by Hirshfeld surface analyses and the associated 2D fingerprint plots, illustrating the similarities and differences of the three salts more concisely. Solid‐state photoluminescence spectroscopy of the title compounds showed emission in the blue region with an extraordinary high quantum yield (Φf = 98 %) for compound 3QBA‐DPP.
The Important Role of Rubidium Hydroxide in the Synthesis of Hierarchical ZSM‐5 Zeolite Using Cetyltrimethylammonium as Structure‐Directing Agent
Authors: Wannapakdee Wannaruedee , Meng Lingqian , van Hoof Arno J. F. , Bolshakov Alexsei , Wattanakit Chularat , Hensen Emiel J. M.
Published: May 2019

Hierarchical ZSM‐5 zeolite with uniform mesopores was synthesized with a simple cetyltrimethylammonium (CTA+) template, which acted as a bifunctional surfactant in a RbOH‐based alkaline synthesis gel. Rb+ plays a key role in obtaining uniform mesopores within ZSM‐5 crystals. The structural, textural properties and the acidity were characterized by XRD, Ar physisorption, TEM, as well as CO IR and 27Al MAS NMR spectroscopy. These data point to partial retention of the initial mesoscale ordered texture of the precursor in the final zeolite. These textural properties result in a strongly improved catalytic performance in the methanol conversion reaction compared to bulk zeolite.
Extrusion‐Based Processing of Cathodes: Influence of Solid Content on Suspension and Electrode Properties
Authors: Haarmann Matthias , Haselrieder Wolfgang , Kwade Arno
Published: May 2019

The influence of the solid content is investigated for cathodes with nickel cobalt manganese oxide (NCM) as an active material during the continuous dispersion in a twin‐screw extruder as well as during the coating and drying processes. Rheological and particle size distribution analyses are carried out to characterize the suspensions. Specifically, mechanical, structural, and electrochemical properties of the manufactured electrodes are determined. The presented results show that an increase in the solid content of the electrode suspension during the extrusion process results in a higher carbon black (CB) dispersion degree due to a higher energy input. At solid content above 80 wt%, delamination of conductive graphite and deposition of CB onto the active material occur. Furthermore, it is proved that within a range of 70–75 wt% solid content, the mechanical, conductive, and electrochemical performances can be enhanced.
An efficient Legendre‐Galerkin spectral method for the natural convection in two‐dimensional cavities
Authors: Zhang Jun , Lin Fubiao
Published: May 2019

An efficient numerical method is developed for solving the natural convection in two‐dimensional cavities. The numerical scheme is proposed by using second‐order projection scheme in time direction and Legendre‐spectral in spatial variable of the incompressible flow. Finally, a series of numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the efficiency of our algorithm. The numerical strategies developed in this article could be readily applied to study other incompressible fluid problems.
Spinal IL‐33/ST2 signaling mediates chronic itch in mice through the astrocytic JAK2‐STAT3 cascade
Authors: Du Lixia , Hu Xueming , Yang Wei , Yasheng Hanikezi , Liu Shenbin , Zhang Wenwen , Zhou Yang , Cui Wenqiang , Zhu Jianyu , Qiao Zheng , Maoying Qiliang , Chu Yuxia , Zhou Hong , Wang Yanqing , Mi Wenli
Published: May 2019

Interleukin‐33 (IL‐33) and its receptor ST2 contribute to spinal glial activation and chronic pain. A recent study showed that peripheral IL‐33 plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of chronic itch induced by poison ivy. However, how IL‐33/ST2 signaling in the spinal cord potentially mediates chronic itch remains elusive. Here, we determined that St2−/− substantially reduced scratching behaviors in 2,4‐dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)‐induced allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) as well as acetone and diethylether followed by water‐induced dry skin in mice. Intrathecal administration of the neutralizing anti‐ST2 or anti‐IL‐33 antibody remarkably decreased the scratching response in DNFB‐induced ACD mice. Expression of spinal IL‐33 and ST2 significantly increased in ACD mice, as evidenced by increased mRNA and protein levels. Immunofluorescence and in situ hybridization demonstrated that increased expression of spinal IL‐33 was predominant in oligodendrocytes and astrocytes, whereas ST2 was mainly expressed in astrocytes. Further studies showed that in ACD mice, the activation of astrocytes and increased phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) were markedly attenuated by St2−/−. Intrathecal injection of Janus Kinase 2 Inhibitor AG490 significantly alleviated scratching behaviors in ACD mice. rIL‐33 pretreatment exacerbated gastrin‐releasing peptide (GRP)‐evoked scratching behaviors. This increased gastrin‐releasing peptide receptor (GRPR) expression was abolished by St2−/−. Tnf‐α upregulation was suppressed by St2−/−. Our results indicate that the spinal IL‐33/ST2 signaling pathway contributes to chronic itch via astrocytic JAK2‐STAT3 cascade activation, promoting TNF‐α release to regulate the GRP/GRPR signaling‐related itch response. Thus, these findings provide a potential therapeutic option for treating chronic pruritus.
Seasonal variations in infiltrability of moss‐dominated biocrusts on aeolian sand and loess soil in the Chinese Loess Plateau
Authors: Xiao Bo , Sun Fuhai , Yao Xiaomeng , Hu Kelin , Kidron Giora J.
Published: May 2019

Biocrust effects on soil infiltration have attracted increasing attention in dryland ecosystems, but their seasonal variations in infiltrability have not yet been well understood. On the Chinese Loess Plateau, soil infiltrability indicated by saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) of biocrusts and bare soil, both on aeolian sand and loess soil, was determined by disc infiltrometer in late spring (SPR), midsummer (SUM), and early fall (FAL). Then their correlations with soil biological and physiochemical properties and water repellency index (RI) were analysed. The results showed that the biocrusts significantly decreased Ks both on sand during SPR, SUM, and FAL (by 43%, 66%, and 35%, respectively; P < .05) and on loess (by 42%, 92%, and 10%, respectively; P <.05). As compared with the bare soil, the decreased Ks in the biocrusted surfaces was mostly attributed to the microorganism biomass and also to the increasing content of fine particles and organic matter. Most importantly, both the biocrusts and bare soil exhibited significant (F ≥ 11.89, P ≤ .003) seasonal variations in Ks, but their patterns were quite different. Specifically, the Ks of bare soil gradually decreased from SPR to SUM (32% and 42% for sand and loess, respectively) and FAL (29% and 39%); the Ks of biocrusts also decreased from SPR to SUM (59% and 92%) but then increased in FAL (36% and 588%). Whereas the seasonal variations in Ks of the biocrusts were closely correlated with the seasonal variations in RI, the RI values were not high enough to point at hydrophobicity. Instead of that, the seasonal variations of Ks were principally explained by the changes in the crust biomass and possibly by the microbial exopolysaccharides. We conclude that the biocrusts significantly decreased soil infiltrability and exhibited a different seasonal variation pattern, which should be carefully considered in future analyses of hydropedological processes.
Breast cancer survival in sub‐Saharan Africa by age, stage at diagnosis and human development index: A population‐based registry study
Authors: Joko‐Fru Walburga Y. , Miranda‐Filho Adalberto , Soerjomataram Isabelle , Egue Marcel , Akele‐Akpo Marie‐Therese , N'da Guy , Assefa Mathewos , Buziba Nathan , Korir Anne , Kamate Bakarou , Traore Cheick , Manraj Shyam , Lorenzoni Cesaltina , Carrilho Carla , Hansen Rolf , Finesse Anne , Somdyala Ntuthu , Wabinga Henry , Chingonzoh Tatenda , Borok Margaret , Chokunonga Eric , Liu Biying , Kantelhardt Eva , McGale Paul , Parkin Donald M.
Published: May 2019

Breast cancer is the leading cancer diagnosis and second most common cause of cancer deaths in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA). Yet, there are few population‐level survival data from Africa and none on the survival differences by stage at diagnosis. Here, we estimate breast cancer survival within SSA by area, stage and country‐level human development index (HDI). We obtained data on a random sample of 2,588 breast cancer incident cases, diagnosed in 2008–2015 from 14 population‐based cancer registries in 12 countries (Benin, Cote d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe) through the African Cancer Registry Network. Of these, 2,311 were included for survival analyses. The 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year observed and relative survival (RS) were estimated by registry, stage and country‐level HDI. We equally estimated the excess hazards adjusting for potential confounders. Among patients with known stage, 64.9% were diagnosed in late stages, with 18.4% being metastatic at diagnosis. The RS varied by registry, ranging from 21.6%(8.2–39.8) at Year 3 in Bulawayo to 84.5% (70.6–93.5) in Namibia. Patients diagnosed at early stages had a 3‐year RS of 78% (71.6–83.3) in contrast to 40.3% (34.9–45.7) at advanced stages (III and IV). The overall RS at Year 1 was 86.1% (84.4–87.6), 65.8% (63.5–68.1) at Year 3 and 59.0% (56.3–61.6) at Year 5. Age at diagnosis was not independently associated with increased mortality risk after adjusting for the effect of stage and country‐level HDI. In conclusion, downstaging breast cancer at diagnosis and improving access to quality care could be pivotal in improving breast cancer survival outcomes in Africa.
[fam‐] trastuzumab deruxtecan, antitumor activity is dependent on HER2 expression level rather than on HER2 amplification
Authors: Takegawa Naoki , Tsurutani Junji , Kawakami Hisato , Yonesaka Kimio , Kato Ryoji , Haratani Koji , Hayashi Hidetoshi , Takeda Masayuki , Nonagase Yoshikane , Maenishi Osamu , Nakagawa Kazuhiko
Published: May 2019

Therapies targeted to human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) have proven effective against tumors positive for HER2 amplification, but there is an unmet clinical need for the treatment of tumors that express HER2 protein in the absence of HER2 amplification. [fam‐] trastuzumab deruxtecan (DS‐8201a) is a novel antibody–drug conjugate composed of the anti‐HER2 antibody and the topoisomerase I inhibitor, an exatecan derivative. It has shown efficacy against tumors that express HER2 and is currently under evaluation in clinical trials. We here show that the antitumor activity of [fam‐] trastuzumab deruxtecan is dependent on the expression level of HER2 protein in colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines negative for HER2 amplification. We established isogenic CRC cell lines that express various levels of HER2 protein in the absence of HER2 amplification, and we found that cells that express HER2 at a high level were sensitive to [fam‐] trastuzumab deruxtecan but not to conventional HER2‐targeted therapies. Furthermore, [fam‐] trastuzumab deruxtecan manifested a bystander killing effect both in vitro and in vivo, with cells essentially negative for HER2 expression also being killed in the presence of HER2‐expressing cells, an effect that has the potential to overcome heterogeneity of HER2 expression in CRC tumors. Our results thus suggest that [fam‐] trastuzumab deruxtecan warrants further study as a potential treatment for CRC tumors that express HER2 protein in the absence of HER2 amplification.
Biological acellular pericardial mesh regulated tissue integration and remodeling in a rat model of breast prosthetic implantation
Authors: Bernardini Roberta , Varvaras Dimitrios , D'Amico Federico , Bielli Alessandra , Scioli Maria Giovanna , Coniglione Filadelfo , Rossi Piero , Buonomo Oreste C. , Petrella Giuseppe , Mattei Maurizio , Orlandi Augusto
Published: May 2019

The use of biological meshes has proven beneficial in surgical restriction and periprosthetic capsular contracture following breast prosthetic‐reconstruction. Three different types (smooth, texturized, and polyurethane) of silicone round mini prostheses were implanted under rat skin with or without two different bovine acellular pericardial biological meshes (APMs, BioRipar, and Tutomesh). One hundred eighty‐six female rats were divided into 12 groups, sacrificed after 3, 6, and 24 weeks and tissue samples investigated by histology and immunohistochemistry. Implantation of both APMs, with or without prostheses, reduced capsular α‐SMA expression and CD3+ inflammatory cell infiltration, increasing capillary density and cell proliferation, with some differences. In particular, Tutomesh was associated with higher peri‐APM CD3+ inflammation, prosthetic capsular dermal α‐SMA expression and less CD31+ vessels and cell proliferation compared with BioRipar. None differences were observed in tissue integration and remodeling following the APM + prostheses implantation; the different prostheses did not influence tissue remodeling. The aim of our study was to investigate if/how the use of different APMs, with peculiar intrinsic characteristics, may influence tissue integration. The structure of APMs critically influenced tissue remodeling after implantation. Further studies are needed to develop new APMs able to optimize tissue integration and neoangiogenesis minimizing periprosthetic inflammation and fibrosis.
Geldanamycin induces apoptosis and inhibits inflammation in fibroblast‐like synoviocytes isolated from rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Ma Cuili , Chen Jianwei , Li Ping
Published: May 2019

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease of the joints characterized by synovial hyperplasia and chronic inﬂammation. Fibroblasts‐like synoviocytes (FLS), major cells in the synovium, together with infiltrated leukocytes, contribute greatly to RA progression. In our study, we hypothesized that geldanamycin (GA), a cancer drug might be able to inhibit RA FLS growth. To test the idea, RA FLS were isolated and cultured for cancer drug test. The results showed that GA can specifically inhibit the growth of RA FLS compared with normal FLS. Essentially, GA was found to promote reactive oxygen species production in RA FLS and induce programmed cell death. The annexinV/propidium iodide and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick‐end labeling staining confirmed that GA can directly induce apoptosis and subsequently inhibit the growth of RA FLS, which was also confirmed by Western blot assay. In addition, our data demonstrated that inflammation was inhibited by suppressed nuclear factor κB signaling pathway. The therapeutic effect of GA was explored in collagen‐induced arthritis mice. In short, GA was a promising drug for the treatment of RA by specifically inhibiting the proliferation and inflammation of RA FLS.
Retracted: Downregulated long noncoding RNA LINC00313 inhibits the epithelial–mesenchymal transition, invasion, and migration of thyroid cancer cells through inhibiting the methylation of ALX4
Authors: Zhao Xingzhi , Hu Xinhua
Published: May 2019

Thyroid cancer represents one of the prevalent endocrine cancer with relatively high incidence rate around the world, accompanied by unchanged fatality rate. We probe into the specific role of LINC00313 in mediation of cellular processes of thyroid cancer including proliferation, migration, and invasion through the methylation of aristaless‐like homeobox 4 (ALX4). Thyroid cancer‐related long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and genes were analyzed by microarray‐based analysis. The antitumor effect of LINC00313 was examined with the gain‐ and loss‐of‐function experiments. In addition, the binding of LINC00313 and the promoter region of ALX4, and the interaction of LINC00313 with methylation‐related proteins were detected. Later, xenograft tumors in nude mice were induced expecting to dig out the modulatory function of LINC00313 in tumor growth of thyroid carcinoma. The microarray‐based analysis manifested that LINC00313 was overexpressed, whereas ALX4 was downregulated in thyroid cancer, the results of which were also verified in thyroid cancer tissues. Besides, our results demonstrated that LINC00313 bound to the ALX4 promoter region, and LINC00313 recruited DNMT1 and DNMT3B proteins to promote the methylation of ALX4 promoter region, thus suppressing the ALX4 expression. Finally, the downregulation of LINC00313 and upregulation of ALX4 repressed the AKT/mTOR signaling axis, thus inhibiting proliferative, migratory, invasive abilities as well as epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) of thyroid cancer cells. Collectively, downregulated LINC00313 suppresses cell proliferation, migration, as well as invasion of thyroid cancer by inhibiting the methylation of ALX4 and increasing its expression by inactivation of the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.
LncRNA BLACAT1 regulates VASP expression via binding to miR‐605‐3p and promotes giloma development
Authors: Liu Naijie , Hu Guozhang , Wang Han , Wang Yue , Guo Zhigang
Published: May 2019

Glioma, an aggressive tumor in brain, presents a very poor prognosis. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that dysfunction of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) is closely related to giloma development. However, the roles of lncRNA BLACAT1 in glioma are not unknown. In this study, we utilized in vitro and in vivo experiments to explore the effects of BLACAT1 on glioma cells. BLACAT1 levels were increased in glioma tissues. Upregulation of BLACAT1 showed poor prognosis. Silencing of BLACAT1 markedly repressed glioma proliferation, migration, and invasion, and suppressed glioma growth in vivo. We also illustrated that BLACAT1 worked as the sponge for miR‐605‐3p and promoted VASP expression. miR‐605‐3p was downregulated in glioma and repressed glioma proliferation, migration, and invasion. And VASP is upregulated and contributed to glioma progression. Summarily, this study highlights the important roles of BLACAT1/miR‐605‐3p/VASP axis in glioma progression.
Roles of exosomes in liver metastases: Novel diagnosis and treatment choices
Authors: Han Weijia , Duan Zhongping
Published: May 2019

Tumors tend to metastasize to the liver. Premetastatic niche formation is a vital step in liver metastasis. Tumor‐derived exosomes can influence premetastatic niche formation from three aspects: vascular leakiness and angiogenesis, recruitment of nonresident cells, and changes in local resident cells. Exosomes from other tissues, such as mesenchymal stem cell‐derived exosomes and engineered exosomes, also have therapeutic potential, but further research on these exosomes is required. Based on the mechanism of premetastatic niche formation, we summarize the therapeutic and diagnostic potential of exosomes in inhibiting liver metastases in this review in an attempt to provide new avenues for the prevention and treatment of liver metastases.
Surface ultrastructural descriptions of the oropharyngeal cavity of Anas querquedula
Authors: Abumandour Mohamed M. A. , Bassuoni Naglaa F. , Hanafy Basma G.
Published: May 2019

The current work considers the first anatomical description of oropharyngeal cavity of Garganey, which was performed on eight heads with the help of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The round apex of elongated tongue has anterior spatula‐like named lingual nail. SEM of dorsal surface of lingual nail carry microtubercles and micropores on its rostral part, while its caudal part carry numerous microridges and micropores, while lateral apical surface only without lingual nail carrying filiform papillae, but its ventral surface carry exfoliated scales‐like projections. Lateral lingual tip carries numerous laterally directed hairs‐like structures. Rostral part of body carry region of small conical papillae in between them small hairs‐like papillae on its lateral surface. Middle part of body carry lingual comb on its dorsal surface, while its lateral surfaces carry region of small conical papillae in between them hairs‐like papillae in addition to filiform papillae, and large conical with small filiform papillae begin to appear laterally to the heads of lingual comb. Lateral surface of lingual prominence carry region of large conical and small filiform papillae on its rostral part, while its caudal part occupied by laterally situated spinated border from the root. Lingual root has two triangular smooth middle and spinated lateral and caudal. Laryngeal entrance divided into papillary and nonpapillary regions. Roof of oropharyngeal cavity divided into lamellar and papillary regions. Choanal cleft divided into rostral narrow ¼ and wide caudal ¾ parts. In conclusion, feeding process depend on the filter feeding mechanism that performed by the help of lateral situated papillae with lingual prominence.
Frequency and factors associated with malnutrition among patients with achalasia and effect of pneumatic dilation
Authors: Ghoshal Uday Chand , Thakur Prabhakar Kumar , Misra Asha
Published: May 2019

Background

Although achalasia patients are undernourished, studies are scant. We studied: (i) the frequency of malnutrition among these patients and (ii) the effect of pneumatic dilatation (PD) on malnutrition.

Methods

A total of 70 adult achalasia patients and 70 healthy controls were evaluated through dietary recall, anthropometry, and biochemical parameters, and patients were reevaluated 6 months after PD.

Results

Patients had lower intake of calories (median, interquartile range [IQR]: 1835.0 [1682.5–1915.0] vs 2071.5 [1950–2276.2] kcal/day, P < 0.001), protein (40.9 [36.3–42.2] vs 52.9 [45.7–62] g/day, P < 0.001), calcium (310 [192.5–392.4] vs 477.5 [350–560] mg/day, P < 0.001), and iron (6.7 [4.7–8.8] vs 10.1 [7.5–11.50] mg/day, P < 0.001) than controls. Patients had lower body mass index (BMI: 19.6 [16.6–22] vs 22.8 [19.5,29.1], P < 0.001), midarm circumference (MAMC; 20 [17.5–23] vs 24.1 [21.4–28.5], P < 0.001), biceps (BSFT; 3.1 [1.9–3.9] vs 5.5 [3.8–9.2] mm, P < 0.001), triceps’ skin fold thickness (TSFT; 5 [2.4–7] vs 7.8 [5.1–9.4] mm, P < 0.001), serum protein (7.2 ± 0.8 vs 7.6 ± 0.8 g/dL, P = 0.005), and albumin (4.0 [3.5–4.4] vs 4.1 [3.9–4.2] g/dL, P = 0.009). PD increased calories (1803 [950–2400] vs 2050 [1470–2950] kcal/day), protein intake (41.0 [22–70] vs 45.0 [37.5–80.0] gm/day), BMI (19.6 [12.8–30.0] vs 22.2[15.9–30.0] P = 0.001 for all), and MAMC (21 [14.1–32.0] vs 24.2 [15–32.0] cm, P = 0.03). Reduced intake was a determinant of malnutrition.

Conclusions

Malnutrition is common in achalasia patients, and PD improved it.
Lectin isolated from Bothrops jararacussu venom induces IL-10 release by TCD4+ cells and TNF-α release by monocytes and natural killer cells
Authors: Pires Weverson Luciano , Kayano Anderson Makoto , de Castro Onassis Boeri , Paloschi Mauro Valentino , Lopes Jéssica Amaral , Boeno Charles Nunes , Pereira Soraya dos Santos , Antunes Maísa Mota , Rodrigues Moreno Magalhães S , Stábeli Rodrigo Guerino , Fernandes Carla Freire Celêdonio , Soares Andreimar Martins , Zuliani Juliana Pavan
Published: May 2019

BjcuL is a C-type lectin isolated from Bothrops jararacussu snake venom with specificity for binding β-d-galactose units. BjcuL is not toxic to human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), but it inhibits PBMC proliferation and stimulates these cells to produce superoxide anions and hydrogen peroxide primarily via lymphocyte stimulation; it does not stimulate the production of nitric oxide and PGE2. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of BjcuL on PBMC activation with a focus on cytokine release modulating PBMC proliferation. The results showed for the first time that BjcuL coupled to FITC interacted with monocytes, B cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and with subpopulations of T cells. These cell-cell interactions can lead to cell activation and inflammatory cytokines release, such as IL-6 and TNF-α, as well as the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. In addition, TNF-α release was attributed to NK cells and monocytes, whereas IL-10 was attributed to TCD4+ and Treg cells when stimulated by BjcuL. The temporal cytokines profile produced by cells when stimulated with this lectin allows us to assert that BjcuL has immunomodulatory activity in this context.
Increased frequencies of circulating CCR5+ memory T cells are correlated to chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy progression
Authors: Roffe Ester , Dos Santos Luara I , Santos Maykon O , Henriques Priscilla M , Teixeira-Carvalho Andrea , Martins-Filho Olindo A , Rocha Manoel O C , Eloi-Santos Silvana M , Correa-Oliveira Rodrigo , Antonelli Lis R V
Published: May 2019

The infection with the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi causes Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease in Latin America and an imported emerging disease worldwide. Chronic Chagasic cardiomyopathy (CCC), a progressive inflammatory and fibrosing disease, is the most prominent clinical form of Chagas disease, culminating in heart failure and high rates of sudden death. CCC pathogenesis is influenced by both host and parasite factors and is proposed to be mostly immune-driven. Chemokines are crucial players in orchestrating immune cell recruitment to infected tissues and inflammation. Herein, we investigated inflammatory chemokine receptor expression on circulating T cells in patients stratified by CCC severity. Compared to asymptomatic individuals, we found increased percentages of effector CD4+ T cells and central memory CD4+ and CD8+ T cells expressing CCR5 in patients with structural cardiopathy, but normal global ventricular function and no symptoms of chronic heart failure. Even naïve T cells expressed CCR5 in these patients. In contrast, reduced frequencies of CD4+ and CD8+ effector T cells expressing CXCR3 were observed in patients presenting with severe heart disease. Patients with increased left ventricular diameter, heart enlargement, and insufficiency had higher frequencies of CCR5+ effector and effector memory CD8+ T cells. Moreover, the percentage of effector CCR5+ CD8+ T cells was increased in patients with a reduced ejection fraction. Our results show that high expression CCR5 and low expression of CXCR3 on circulating T cells are associated with worse prognosis, possibly reflecting immune-mediated cardiac remodeling of CCC.
Assessing Tumor Mechanics by MR Elastography at Different Strain Levels
Authors: Pagé Gwenaël , Tardieu Marion , Besret Laurent , Blot Lydia , Lopes Joaquim , Sinkus Ralph , Van Beers Bernard E. , Garteiser Philippe
Published: May 2019

Background

Malignant tumors are associated with increased tissue rigidity, which can be an indicator of tumor progression. MR elastography (MRE) has the potential to study the variations of tumor mechanical properties. ex vivo studies have shown the ability of MRE to assess increase of mechanical properties; nevertheless, it has not yet been observed in vivo.

Purpose

To propose a method to assess the increase in mechanical properties of tumors in vivo under static external compression using MRE.

Study Type

Prospective, experimental study.

Animal Model

Forty‐six SCID mice with subcutaneous tumor implantation (patient‐derived hepatocellular carcinoma xenografts, Model 1, n = 13, and Model 2, n = 33).

Field Strength/Sequence

7.0T; a spin echo sequence was used for anatomical images and a modified spin echo sequence for elastography acquisitions with a vibration frequency of 600 Hz.

Assessment

An inflatable balloon was placed on the abdomen to apply a load to the tumor. MRE acquisitions were performed at the basal state and at increasing compression levels. Anatomical images were used to calculate the octahedral shear strain between the tumor at the basal strain state and each strain level. For six mice (Model 2), each static preloading scan was acquired twice consecutively without moving the mouse to evaluate repeatability.

Statistical Tests: The Bland–Altman method was used to assess repeatability. Correlations between tumor stiffness and deformation were evaluated with Pearson correlation coefficients.

Results

For stiffness (G*), a good repeatability was obtained between the acquisitions; the limits of agreement of the Bland–Altman test were [–10.17%; 11.49%] with an absolute bias of 0.66%. A significant correlation between tumor stiffness and deformation was observed for both models (Model 1: r = 0.57, P < 0.0001 and Model 2: r = 0.31, P < 0.0001).

Data Conclusion

We establish that tumor mechanical properties can increase under mechanical compression. This increase can effectively be monitored using a proposed MRE setup.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1982–1989.
Integrated care for methadone maintenance patients with hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Tai Chi‐Ming , Yen Yung‐Chieh , Bair Ming‐Jong , Tseng Cheng‐Hao , Chang Ting‐Ting , Huang Chung‐Feng , Yeh Ming‐Lun , Dai Chia‐Yen , Chuang Wan‐Long , Yu Ming‐Lung , Huang Jee‐Fu
Published: May 2019

The majority of patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) are neither examined nor treated for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We aimed to evaluate an integrated referral model in the management of HCV among MMT patients. This retrospective study included 390 HCV‐infected MMT patients between April 2015 and May 2017. Patients who tested positive for HCV antibodies were referred to a liver clinic by MMT case managers or psychiatrists. Patients who agreed to receive anti‐HCV treatment were treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. The rate of patient engagement at a liver clinic increased from 14.1% to 58.2% after integrated care. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that higher education level (odds ratio [OR], 1.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01‐2.60) and elevated ALT level (OR, 4.30; 95% CI, 2.70‐6.85) were independently associated with patients who accepted referral. Active drug use (OR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.31‐0.85) was inversely associated with referral acceptance. Of the 112 patients who met the criteria for anti‐HCV therapy, 66 (58.9%) were treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. Finally, the rate of treatment completion and sustained virological response (SVR) was 65.2% and 54.5%, respectively, among the 66 patients. Treatment completion (OR, 39.67; 95% CI, 7.80‐201.62) was found to be the only independent factor associated with SVR achievement. Although integrated care by psychiatrists and hepatologists significantly increased the rates of engagement and acceptance of antiviral treatment for HCV‐infected MMT patients, only a minority of MMT patients achieved successful treatment.
Lipid Profile and Glycerophospholipid Molecular Species in Two Species of Edible Razor Clams Sinonovacula constricta and Solen gouldi
Authors: Wu Zi‐Xuan , Zhou Da‐Yong , Zhao Man‐Tong , Xie Hong‐Kai , Liu Zhong‐Yuan , Liu Yan‐Fei , Liu Yu‐Xin , Shahidi Fereidoon
Published: May 2019

Total lipids were extracted from razor clams Sinonovacula constricta and Solen gouldi, and the molecular species of glycerophospholipid (Gpl) including choline glycerophospholipid (ChoGpl), ethanolamine glycerophospholipid (EtnGpl), serine glycerophospholipid (SerGpl), inositol glycerophospholipid (InsGpl), lysoChoGpl, lysoEtnGpl, and lysoSerGpl were characterized using a direct‐infusion tandem mass spectrometric method for the first time. Meanwhile, the lipid class composition and phospholipid (PL) class composition as well as the fatty acid (FA) composition of total lipids, triacylglycerol (TAG), and PL were also investigated. About 238 and 235 molecular species were characterized, respectively, in Sinonovacula constricta and Solen gouldi. The majority of the dominant Gpl molecular species contained n‐3 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 LC‐PUFA), especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Also, razor clam lipids contained a high‐proportioned PL (52.19–65.41% of total lipids) and PUFA (47.94–54.81 mol%). Furthermore, PL contained a higher proportion of PUFA (63.05–67.13 mol%), especially DHA (20.04–22.47 mol%) and EPA (16.27–21.46 mol%) than TAG (the corresponding values being 33.73–34.45, 11.95–12.27, and 8.13–0.8.99 mol%, respectively). Meanwhile, phosphatidylcholine (44.38–46.21 mol%) and phosphatidylethanolamine (38.84–39.95 mol%) were dominant among PL. In consideration of the high proportion of PUFA‐enriched Gpl, razor clam plays a great role in promoting human health.
Scaling of spectra of a class of self‐similar measures on R
Authors: Wang Zhi‐Min , Dong Xin‐Han , Ai Wen‐Hui
Published: May 2019

Let be two positive integers. For , let the self‐similar measure be defined by . It is known [18] that is a spectral measure with a spectrum
urn:x-wiley:0025584X:media:mana201800360:mana201800360-math-0006where . In this paper, we give some conditions on under which the scaling set is also a spectrum of .
Synchronized stationary distribution of stochastic coupled systems based on graph theory
Authors: Guo Ying , Liu Yan , Xu Yang
Published: May 2019

This paper deals with the synchronized stationary distribution of stochastic coupled systems. The response system is constructed to help achieve a synchronized stationary distribution. Firstly, an error system obtained by the drive system and the response system is given and an appropriate Lyapunov function for the error system is constructed. On the basis of the graph theory and the Lyapunov method, some sufficient conditions are proposed to guarantee the existence of a stationary distribution for the error system, which reflects the coupling structure has a close relationship with synchronized stationary distribution. Then, an application to stochastic coupled oscillators is presented and sufficient conditions are obtained to illustrate the feasibility of the theoretical results. Finally, a numerical example is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of theoretical results.