bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA‐34a promotes CMECs apoptosis and upregulate inflammatory cytokines, thus worsening CMECs damage and inhibiting angiogenesis by negatively targeting the Notch signaling pathway
Authors: Li Jia , Gong Jin , Li Xiaobing , Shen Li , Xie Yewei , Zhang Rufang
Published: October 2018

Objective

Recently, microRNA‐34a (miR‐34a) has been reported to lead to secretion of proinflammatory cytokine in endothelial cells, whereas whether miR‐34a plays a protective role in damaged cardiac microvascular endothelial cells (CMECs) remains to be determined. Herein, the purpose of this study is to explore the effect of miR‐34a in mediating Notch signaling pathway in apoptosis and angiogenesis of damaged CMECs.

Methods

The primary mice CMECs were isolated, cultivated, and identified before establishment of damaged CMEC model by incubation with homocysteine (HCY) for 24 hours. Quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis were applied to determine the expressions of miR‐34a and Notch1. Cell viability and cell apoptosis were measured by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay and Hochest 33258 staining. Capillary‐like structures formation assay was used to detect the capillary‐like structures in CMECs. The expressions of inflammatory cytokines and angiogenesis factors were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

In contrast to the blank group, the HCY and negative control groups demonstrated with elevated expressions of miR‐34a, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, and increased cell apoptosis rate, but decreased expressions of Notch1, IL‐10, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and human growth factor (HGF), as well as attenuated cell viability and capillary‐like structures of cells formation ability. In comparison with HCY group, the expressions of miR‐34a, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and apoptosis rate were increased, whereas the expressions of Notch1, VEGF, bFGF, HGF, cell viability, and capillary‐like structures of cells formation were inhibited in miR‐34a mimic group.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that miR‐34a can promote CMEC apoptosis and upregulate inflammatory cytokines, thus worsening CMEC damage and inhibiting angiogenesis by negatively targeting the Notch signaling pathway.
Evaluation of exosomal miR‐9 and miR‐155 targeting PTEN and DUSP14 in highly metastatic breast cancer and their effect on low metastatic cells
Authors: kia Vahid , Paryan Mahdi , Mortazavi Yousef , Biglari Alireza , Mohammadi‐Yeganeh Samira
Published: October 2018

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in women. Triple‐negative breast cancer consists 15% to 20% of breast cancer cases and has a poor prognosis. Cancerous transformation has several causes one of which is dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) expression. Exosomes can transfer miRNAs to neighboring and distant cells. Thus, exosomal miRNAs can transfer cancerous phenotype to distant cells. We used gene expression omnibus (GEO) datasets and miRNA target prediction tools to find overexpressed miRNA in breast cancer cells and their target genes, respectively. Exosomes were extracted from MDA‐MB‐231 and MCF‐7 cells and characterized. Overexpression of the miRNAs of MDA‐MB‐231 cells and their exosomes were analyzed using quantitative Real‐time PCR. The target genes expression was also evaluated in the cell lines. Luciferase assay was performed to confirm the miRNAs: mRNAs interactions. Finally, MCF‐7 cells were treated with MDA‐MB‐231 cells’ exosomes. The target genes expression was evaluated in the recipient cells. GSE60714 results indicated that miR‐9 and miR‐155 were among the overexpressed miRNAs in highly metastatic triple negative breast cancer cells and their exosomes. Bioinformatic studies showed that these two miRNAs target PTEN and
DUSP14 tumor suppressor genes. Quantitative Real‐time PCR confirmed the overexpression of the miRNAs and downregulation of their targets. Luciferase assay confirmed that the miRNAs target
PTEN and
DUSP14. Treatment of MCF‐7 cells with MDA‐MB‐231 cells’ exosomes resulted in target genes downregulation in MCF‐7 cells. We found that miR‐9 and miR‐155 were enriched in metastatic breast cancer exosomes. Therefore, exosomal miRNAs can transfer from cancer cells to other cells and can suppress their target genes in the recipient cells.
Dependence of artesunate on long noncoding RNA‐RP11 to inhibit epithelial‐mesenchymal transition of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Jing Wu , Dong Hu , Min Mu , Runpeng Zhao , Xuewei Xu , Ru Cai , Yingru Xing , Shengfa Ni , Baoxian Tie , Jinbo Yue , Weidong Han , Rongbo Zhang
Published: October 2018

As a first line medicine for malaria treatment, artesunate (ART) also shows antitumor potential. However, little is known about the effect of ART on the cancer cell epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). In this study, we found that ART inhibited cell growth in SK‐HEP1 and SM7721 hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. A microarray was used to identify differentially expressed protein‐coding RNAs (pcRNA) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) between SK‐HEP1 cells with and without ART treatment. A differentially expressed lncRNA—RP11, the most related to the EMT of liver cancer cells—RP11 was identified by abioinformatics method Overexpressing and silencing assays were used to verify the role of RP11 in cancer cell EMT. The levels of RP11‐ and EMT‐related genes in liver cancer samples from 75 patients were detected by using qualitative polymerase chain reaction or immunohistochemistry. We identified 1334 pcRNAs and 1670 lncRNA with differential expression induced by ART. ART inhibits EMT, proliferation, migration, invasion, and adhesion of liver cancer cells. RP11 depresses the inhibitory effect of ART on cancer cell EMT. The level of RP11 is associated with cancer cell EMT and metastasis and survival rate of the patient. These data suggest that RP11‐linking ART and cancer cell EMT are important for ART‐inhibited metastasis of liver cancer.
Microarray‐based identification of genes associated with prognosis and drug resistance in ovarian cancer
Authors: Yin Fuqiang , Yi Shang , Wei Luwei , Zhao Bingbing , Li Jinqian , Cai Xiangxue , Dong Caihua , Liu Xia
Published: October 2018

The outcome for patients with ovarian cancer (OC) is poor because of drug resistance. Therefore, identification of factors that affect drug resistance and prognosis in OC is needed. In the present study, we identified 131 genes significantly dysregulated in 90 platinum‐resistant OC tissues compared with 197 sensitive tissues, of which 30 were significantly associated with disease‐free survival (DFS; n = 16), overall survival (OS; n = 6), or both (n = 8) in 489 OC patients of the The Cancer Genome Atlas cohort. Of these 30 genes, 17 were significantly upregulated and 13 were downregulated in the 90 resistant tissues, and with one exception, all of the up‐/downregulated genes in resistant tissues were predictors of shorter DFS or/and OS.
LAX1,
MECOM, and
PDIA4 were independent risk factors for DFS, and
KLF1,
SLC7A11, and
PDIA4 for OS; combining these genes provided more accurate predictions for DFS and OS than any of the genes used individually. We further verified downregulation of PDIA4 protein in 51 specimens of patients with OC (24 drug resistant’s and 27 sensitive’s), which confirmed that downregulated PDIA4 predicted DFS and OS. PDIA4 also consistently predicted OS in a larger sample of 1656 patients with OC. These 30 genes, particularly the
PDIA4, could be therapeutic targets or biomarkers for managing OC.
miRNA‐206 regulates human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cell apoptosis via targeting in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Sun Ying , An Na , Li Jiansheng , Xia Jinchan , Tian Yange , Zhao Peng , Liu Xuefang , Huang Haiying , Gao Jianfeng , Zhang Xiaoli
Published: October 2018

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of death due to tis high morbidity and mortality. microRNAs have emerged as new biomarkers for the prognosis and diagnosis of patients with COPD. In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression of microRNA‐206 (miR‐206) in lung tissues from COPD patients and to explore the regulatory role of miR‐206 in the human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMECs). Our results showed that cigarette smoke extract (CSE) promoted cell apoptosis, increased caspase‐3 activity, and upregulated the expression of miR‐206 in HPMECs, which was significantly reversed by the miR‐206 knockdown. Transfection with miR‐206 mimics led to cell apoptosis and was closely related to changes in the protein expression levels of caspase‐3, caspase‐9, and Bcl‐2 in HPMECs. Further bioinformatics prediction analysis revealed that the 3′‐untranslated region (3′UTR) of Notch3 and vascular endothelial growth factor‐A (VEGFA) harbored miR‐206‐binding sites, and overexpression of miR‐206 repressed the luciferase activity of the vectors containing Notch3 and VEGFA 3′UTR. Overexpression of either Notch3 or VEGFA attenuated miR‐206‐induced cell apoptosis in HPMECs. More importantly, miR‐206 expression was upregulated in the lung tissues from COPD patients and was positively corrected with forced expiratory volume 1% predicted in COPD patients, while Notch3 and VEGFA mRNA levels were downregulated and were negatively correlated with the expression level of miR‐206 in the lung tissues from COPD patients. In conclusion, our results showed that miR‐206 was upregulated in COPD patients and CSE‐treated HPMECs, promoted cell apoptosis via directly targeting Notch3 and VEGFA in HPMECs.
Characterizing the three‐dimensional organization of telomeres in papillary thyroid carcinoma cells
Authors: Caria Paola , Dettori Tinuccia , Frau Daniela Virginia , Lichtenzstejn Daniel , Pani Fabiana , Vanni Roberta , Mai Sabine
Published: October 2018

The relationship between the three‐dimensional (3D) nuclear telomere architecture and specific genetic alterations in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), in particular in cancer stem‐like cells (CSLCs), has not yet been investigated. We isolated thyrospheres containing CSLCs from B‐CPAP, K1, and TPC‐1 PTC‐derived cell lines, representative of tumors with different genetic backgrounds within the newly identified BRAFV600E‐like PTC subgroup, and used immortalized normal human thyrocytes (Nthy‐ori 3.1) as control. We performed quantitative fluorescence in situ hybridization, 3D imaging, and 3D telomere analysis using TeloView software to examine telomere dysfunction in both parental and thyrosphere cells. Among the 3D telomere profile, a wide heterogeneity was observed, except for telomere intensity. Our findings indicate that CSLCs of each cell line had longer telomeres than parental cells, according to telomere intensity values, which correlate with telomere length. Indeed, the thyrosphere cells had lower numbers of lower‐intensity telomeres (≤5,000 arbitrary fluorescent units, a.u.), compared with parental cancer cells, as well as parental control cells, (p < 0.0001). The B‐CPAP thyrospheres showed a decreased number of higher intensity telomeres (>17,000 a.u.) than K1 and TPC‐1 cells, as well as control cells (p < 0.0001). By selecting PTC‐derived cell lines with different genetic backgrounds characteristic of BRAFV600E‐like PTC subgroups, we demonstrate that thyrosphere cells with BRAFV600E and TP53 mutations show shorter telomeres than those harboring RET/PTC or BRAFV600Eand wild‐type TP53. Hence, our data reveal a trend towards a decrease in telomere shortening in CSLCs, representing the early cancer‐promoting subpopulation, as opposed to parental cells representing the tumor bulk cells.
Clinical significance of drain fluid culture after pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Yang Feng , Jin Chen , Li Ji , Di Yang , Zhang Jing , Fu Deliang
Published: October 2018

Background

The mechanism of infected postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is undefined. Drain amylase has been used to predict POPF, whereas little data are available about the value of drain fluid culture. The aim was to investigate the incidence, risk factors and association with surgical outcomes of positive drainage culture (PDC) after PD.

Methods

A single‐center retrospective analysis was conducted of prospectively collected data from patients who underwent PD between January 2005 and December 2015. Drain fluid samples were obtained for microbiological analysis after surgery. Risk factors for PDC were evaluated, and its influence on surgical outcomes was explored.

Results

Of 768 patients, 261 (34%) had PDC during the postoperative period. Among them, a total of 434 isolates were yielded. One hundred and seven (24.7%) were Gram‐positive, 283 (65.2%) Gram‐negative, and 44 (10.1%) fungi. Multivariate analysis revealed that body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2, preoperative chemoradiation and intra‐operative red blood cell transfusion were independent risk factors for PDC. PDC was associated with higher incidences of complications including POPF, major complications and reoperation, but with no correlation between the day of PDC and complications. BMI ≥25 kg/m2, early PDC (≤3 days), main pancreatic duct <3 mm, and soft pancreas were revealed as independent predictors for POPF. There was a correlation between type of microorganisms and complications.

Conclusion

Considering the correlation between PDC and postoperative complications, preventive measures are crucial to improve outcomes after PD. Whether antibiotic treatment for early PDC will alter the clinical course of POPF needs further evaluation.
3D Chemical Shift‐Encoded MRI for Volume and Composition Quantification of Abdominal Adipose Tissue During an Overfeeding Protocol in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Nemeth Angeline , Segrestin Bérénice , Leporq Benjamin , Seyssel Kevin , Faraz Khuram , Sauvinet Valérie , Disse Emmanuel , Valette Pierre‐Jean , Laville Martine , Ratiney Hélène , Beuf Olivier
Published: October 2018

Background

Overweight and obesity are major worldwide health concerns characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fat in adipose tissue (AT) and liver.

Purpose

To evaluate the volume and the fatty acid (FA) composition of the subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and the visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and the fat content in the liver from 3D chemical‐shift‐encoded (CSE)‐MRI acquisition, before and after a 31‐day overfeeding protocol.

Study Type

Prospective and longitudinal study.

Subjects

Twenty‐one nonobese healthy male volunteers.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3D spoiled‐gradient multiple echo sequence and STEAM sequence were performed at 3T.

Assessment

AT volume was automatically segmented on CSE‐MRI between L2 to L4 lumbar vertebrae and compared to the dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) measurement. CSE‐MRI and MR spectroscopy (MRS) data were analyzed to assess the proton density fat fraction (PDFF) in the liver and the FA composition in SAT and VAT. Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) analyses were performed on 13 SAT samples as a FA composition countermeasure.

Statistical Tests

Paired t‐test, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and Bland–Altman plots were used to compare measurements.

Results

SAT and VAT volumes significantly increased (P < 0.001). CSE‐MRI and DEXA measurements were strongly correlated (r = 0.98, P < 0.001). PDFF significantly increased in the liver (+1.35, P = 0.002 for CSE‐MRI, + 1.74, P = 0.002 for MRS). FA composition of SAT and VAT appeared to be consistent between localized‐MRS and CSE‐MRI (on whole segmented volume) measurements. A significant difference between SAT and VAT FA composition was found (P < 0.001 for CSE‐MRI, P = 0.001 for MRS). MRS and CSE‐MRI measurements of the FA composition were correlated with the GC‐MS results (for ndb: rMRS/GC‐MS = 0.83 P < 0.001, rCSE‐MRI/GC‐MS = 0.84, P = 0.001; for nmidb: rMRS/GC‐MS = 0.74, P = 0.006, rCSE‐MRI/GC‐MS = 0.66, P = 0.020)

Data Conclusion

The follow‐up of liver PDFF, volume, and FA composition of AT during an overfeeding diet was demonstrated through different methods. The CSE‐MRI sequence associated with a dedicated postprocessing was found reliable for such quantification.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:1587–1599.
Agricultural Terraces Special Issue Preface
Authors: Tarolli Paolo
Published: October 2018

Agricultural terraces are a cultivation technique used, since ancient times, in many regions of the world. Terraces are built to reduce slope gradient and increase the infiltration of water; to mitigate soil erosion, collect rainwater run‐off, and concentrate it on a cropped plot; and to support agriculture in difficult environmental conditions (e.g., high‐steep slopes). Poorly designed and maintained terraces can lead to slope failures, often due to walls collapsing, and then large quantities of soil become vulnerable to run‐off erosion. The purpose of this Special Issue is to review the main environmental problems and opportunities that occur in a terraced landscape, explore how to monitor and date a terrace system, and provide useful guidance for landowners and practitioners who deal with terraced landscapes.
Dietary Buglossoides arvensis Oil as a Potential Candidate to Substitute Fish Oil in Rainbow Trout Diets
Authors: Fickler Anna , Staats Stefanie , Hasler Mario , Rimbach Gerald , Schulz Carsten
Published: October 2018

The utilization of vegetable oils in salmonid diets substantially decreased the body content of omega‐3 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 LC‐PUFA), and thus the product quality for human consumption. Therefore, new ingredients for aquaculture feeds are needed that maximize the deposition of health‐promoting n‐3 LC‐PUFA. This study investigated Buglossoides arvensis (Ahiflower) oil, a plant oil rich in alpha‐linolenic acid (18:3n‐3, ALA) and stearidonic acid (18:4n‐3, SDA), as a source of n‐3 fatty acids in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) nutrition. Rainbow trout (87.4 ± 0.6 g) were fed for 56 days. The oils of the control diet (FV) were substituted by Ahiflower oil at 33%, 66%, and 100% (A33, A66, A100). Dietary Ahiflower oil increased the final body weights of fish. mRNA steady state levels of fatty acyl desaturase 2a (delta‐6) (fads2a(d6)) and 2b (delta‐5) (fads2b(d5)) as well as carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 a (cpt1a) were not altered by dietary treatments. In contrast, cpt1c mRNA steady state levels were significantly downregulated in samples of fish fed A66 and A100. Significantly higher eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n‐3, EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n‐3, DHA) levels were found in the liver and significantly higher EPA levels in the fillet of rainbow trout of A66 and A100 compared to FV. The content of DHA in fillets of fish fed Ahiflower oil was not significantly different to fish fed FV. Thus, high dietary amounts of Ahiflower oil can compensate for reduced dietary EPA and DHA levels.
Synthesis and Structure of Optically Active Oligo(N‐substituted‐m‐benzamide)s Bearing a Bithiophene Chromophore on the Benzene Ring
Authors: Takagi Koji , Nishikawa Yuma , Shimizu Kana , Nobuke Katsuya , Yamakado Ryohei , Sugimoto Shinri , Inai Yoshihito
Published: October 2018

An optically active oligo(m‐benzamide) (OBA1), with a chiral alkyl group on the amide nitrogen and a bithiophene chromophore on the benzene ring by the chain‐growth polymerization of methyl 3‐((S)‐2′‐methylbutylamino)‐5‐(2′′‐(5′′,2′′′‐bithienyl)) benzoate are prepared. In addition, unimer to trimer model compounds (M1, M2, and M3) are synthesized by the iterative ester hydrolysis and dehydration condensation. An optically active oligo(m‐benzamide) with a chiral methoxyethoxyethoxy group (OBA2) is likewise synthesized. On the basis of electronic circular dichroism (CD), UV–vis, and fluorescence spectra, the chiral arrangement of bithiophene chromophores is discussed. By converting the carbonyl group in OBA1 into the methylene group using LiAlH4/AlCl3, a bisignate Cotton effect is collapsed, indicating the importance of the aromatic tertiary amide skeleton for the chiral arrangement of chromophores. The chain conformation of OBA1 is further investigated by means of theoretical CD calculations to figure out that two neighboring bithiophene units are preferentially rotated in a counterclockwise direction.
A Flexible, Highly Sensitive, and Selective Chemiresistive Gas Sensor Obtained by In Situ Photopolymerization of an Acrylic Resin in the Presence of MWCNTs
Authors: Vigna Lorenzo , Fasoli Andrea , Cocuzza Matteo , Pirri Fabrizio C. , Bozano Luisa D. , Sangermano Marco
Published: October 2018

A new flexible polymeric gas sensor is developed by photocrosslinking poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate resin (PEGDA) containing multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as conductive filler. The cured material shows a percolative threshold conductivity which changes when in contact with various gas analytes with different chemical and physical properties. The different behavior of the sensors toward the different gases is explained either on the basis of chemical affinity toward the polymeric matrix or due to the interactions that can occur between the analyte and the surface of the nanotubes in the case of the aromatic gas.
Anticipating a Union Campaign
Authors: DeMaria Alfred T.
Published: October 2018

The most effective union campaign begins before the union has even appeared. Anticipate its arrival and be prepared. Discussed here are steps to minimize vulnerabilities.
Vulnerability Self Assessment Checklist
Authors: DeMaria Alfred T.
Published: October 2018

Employers wishing to remain union‐free should regularly assess their vulnerability by asking themselves questions such as these.
LncRNA MALAT1 modified progression of clear cell kidney carcinoma (KIRC) by regulation of miR‐194‐5p/ACVR2B signaling
Authors: Ye Yanle , Zhang Feng , Chen Qingxia , Huang Zhiyang , Li Meijun
Published: October 2018

This investigation was purposed to extrapolate whether and how lncRNA MALAT1, miR‐194‐5p, and ACVR2B altered development of clear cell kidney carcinoma (KIRC). We totally gathered 318 pairs of KIRC tissues and adjacent normal tissues, and also purchased human KIRC cell lines and normal human proximal tubular epithelial cell line. Besides, si‐MALAT1, pcDNA‐MALAT1, miR‐194‐5p mimic, miR‐194‐5p inhibitor, and negative control (NC) were, respectively, transfected into KIRC cells. The viability, proliferation, and apoptosis of the cells were determined with CCK‐8 assay, colony formation assay, and flow cytometry. Dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay was implemented to validate the targeted relationships between MALAT1 and miR‐194‐5p, as well as between miR‐194‐5p and ACVR2B. The results showed that highly expressed MALAT1, ACVR2B, and lowly expressed miR‐194‐5p were associated with larger tumor size (≥4 cm), advanced TNM stage and poor prognosis of KIRC patients, when, respectively, compared with lowly expressed MALAT1, ACVR2B, and highly expressed miR‐194‐5p (P < 0.05). Transfection of pcDNA‐MALAT1, miR‐194‐5p inhibitor, and pcDNA‐ACVR2B conferred the KIRC cells with promoted viability and proliferation, as well as reduced apoptosis (P < 0.05). Treatment of rats with pcDNA‐MALAT1, miR‐194‐5p inhibitor, or pcDNA‐ACVR2B also contributed to larger tumor size growing in them (P < 0.05). Moreover, MALAT1 could directly target miR‐194‐5p to suppress its expression, and ACVR2B was the targeted molecule of miR‐194‐5p (P < 0.05). Finally, ACVR2B could reverse the effects exerted by miR‐194‐5p on viability, proliferation, and apoptosis of KIRC cells (P < 0.05). In conclusion, LncRNA MALAT1/miR‐194‐5p/ACVR2B signaling was regarded as a candidate pathway for modulating KIRC progression.
Exportin‐T promotes tumor proliferation and invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lin Jianwei , Hou Yuchen , Huang Shanzhou , Wang Ziming , Sun Chengjun , Wang Zekang , He Xiaoshun , Tam Nga Lei , Wu Chenglin , Wu Linwei
Published: October 2018

Exportin‐T (XPOT) belongs to the RAN‐GTPase exportin family that mediates export of tRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. Up‐regulation of XPOT indicates poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. However, the correlation between XPOT and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. Here, we found that high expression of XPOT in HCC indicated worse prognosis via bioinformatics analysis. Consistently, immunohistochemical staining of 95 pairs of tumors and adjacent normal liver tissues (ANLT) also showed up‐regulation of XPOT. Small interfering (si) RNA transfection was used to down‐regulate XPOT in HepG2 and 7721 cell lines. Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK8) assays were performed to analyze cell proliferation. Cell migration and invasion were measured by scratch wound healing assays and migration assays. Subcutaneous xenograft models were using to explore the role of XPOT in tumor formation in vivo. Down‐regulation of XPOT significantly inhibited tumor proliferation and invasion in vitro and vivo. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) results indicated that XPOT may affect tumor progression through cell cycle and ubiquitin‐mediated proteolysis. Furthermore, knockdown of XPOT caused a block in G0/G1 phase as evidenced by down‐regulation of cyclin‐dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), cyclin‐dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), cyclin‐dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), CyclinA1 (CCNA1), CyclinB1 (CCNB1), CyclinB2 (CCNB2), and CyclinE2 (CCNE2) in HCC cells. In conclusion, our findings indicate that XPOT could serve as a novel biomarker for prognoses and a potential therapeutic target for patients with HCC.
Elliptic function compact‐size of the band‐pass filter using complimentary MNZ metamaterial resonator
Authors: Yoon Ki‐Cheol , Ahn Seungyoung , Lee Jong‐Chul
Published: October 2018

In this article, a new small size of the narrow bandwidth elliptic function band pass filter (BPF) using combination of spur‐line and meander‐line resonator with μ‐near zero (MNZ) metamaterial is presented. The MNZ resonator consists of complimentary structure and the resonator has band‐stop resonant characteristic and positive phase response (+90°) due to its zero‐value permeability. The experimental result for quality factor (Q) of the resonator is 213 at resonant frequency of 9.98 GHz. Also, the BPF is composed of complimentary MNZ resonator and coupling structure. Then, the measurement results for insertion and return losses of a proposed BPF are 1.58 and 15.4 dB with bandwidth of 2.5% at center frequency of 9.96 GHz, respectively. The overall size of the BPF is 5.16 × 5.16 mm2.
Efficiency enhancement of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin film solar cells by employing onmi‐directional ZnO nanostructure with MgF2 anti‐reflection‐coating layer
Authors: Jo Hee‐Jin , Shim Bo‐Hyun
Published: October 2018

An omni‐directional, graded‐index, and textured ZnO nanorods (n = 1.7‐2.0) with MgF2 (n = 1.37) antireflection (AR)‐coating layer for Cu(In,Ga)Se2 solar cells grown by hydrothermal method are presented. We achieve that the graded index structure can reduce a weighted global reflectance of 5.5%, and significantly improve a current density (JSC) of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 solar cells up to 32.3 mA/cm2 which is comparable to a general MgF2 single layer AR coating. Optimized AR‐coating layer leads to decreasing Fresnel reflection by gradient refractive index between ZnO nanorods and air. According to our experiment results, ZnO nanostructure with MgF2 AR‐coating layer can be used for various photovoltaic cells to enhance the light conversion efficiency.
Design of a broadband beam‐forming antenna for emergence detection and rescue applications
Authors: Yeom In Su , Park Tae Joon , Jung Chang Won
Published: October 2018

A broadband beam‐forming antenna is designed for intelligent emergency detection and rescue systems. Recognizing emergencies hinges on identifying and analyzing the motion of humans. Combined with deep learning, the radio frequency signal of an antenna can capture the motion of humans behind a wall and in closed rooms using frequency‐modulated carrier wave (FMCW) signals operating in broadband from 5.56 GHz to 7.25 GHz (26%). The beam‐forming antenna is composed of four slot‐coupled patch antennas. The proposed array antenna satisfies a broad FMCW bandwidth and sufficient gain over 15.8 dBi in the overall bandwidth. To extend the focusing capability, we specifically design a 4 × 1 array structure and optimize the distance of antenna to 32.9 mm (0.7 λ0). The antenna is compact enough to realize a handheld motion‐tracking device. The array antenna forms a fan beam with a wide beam coverage and low side lobe level. The motion of a human body is tracked as a beam scanning by the antenna array. To accomplish this goal with adaptive array architectures, we implement beam‐forming techniques with a phase shifter, an amplifier, and a power divider.
From Markets to Tech: Governmental Initiatives, Solutions, and Responses to Food Insecurity
Authors: Cometti Mario , Fredette Damara , Panek Ashley Elizabeth , Radley Maxwell
Published: October 2018

Food security, or lack thereof, is a global issue, affecting millions of people worldwide. Although it has been determined that there is enough food on the planet to feed everyone, nearly one‐third suffer from some form of malnutrition. The purpose of this paper is to bring awareness to this global crisis. The introduction defines food security and food deserts, supported by global and U.S. statistics. Next, the paper discusses the federal and regional initiatives within the U.S. to eliminate food insecurity, including federal laws and individual state laws. The paper highlights the “Right to Farm” initiative promulgated by New York state, as well as the Farmers' Market of Troy, New York, as attempts to combat food insecurity. The paper then discusses another large metropolitan area in the U.S., Seattle, Washington, and its response to food insecurity: Seattle's “Farm‐To‐Table Initiative” and “Fresh Bucks” program. Next, the discussion turns to advancing technology and its ability to bridge gaps in food accessibility. For example, Sweden has implemented an unstaffed twenty‐four‐hour grocery store using technology to complete the transactions. Smiliar solutions are being tested in communities in China. Furthermore, Amazon GO, launched in 2016 in Seattle, Washington, is one of the most recent innovations, allowing shoppers to use an Amazon account to track their purchases. The paper concludes by calling on the more economically influential countries to prioritize food security in their respective nations.
Glycerol‐lactic acid star‐shaped oligomers as efficient biobased surface modifiers for improving superabsorbent polymer hydrogels
Authors: Ghasri Mahsa , Jahandideh Arash , Kabiri Kourosh , Bouhendi Hossein , Zohuriaan‐Mehr Mohammad J. , Moini Nasrin
Published: October 2018

The glycerol‐lactic acid‐based star‐shaped modifier (SM) were synthesized and employed for surface modification of hygienic superabsorbent polymer (SAP) hydrogels for the first time. Surface crosslinking was carried out to increase the saline‐absorbency under load (AUL) and the swollen gel strength. The surface treatment process was analyzed employing free absorbency and AUL tests, salt sensitivity, attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR), oscillatory rheometry, as well as scanning electron microscopy analysis. The effect of the branched architecture and the contents of SM on the properties of the modified SAPs were studied. The implementation of surface treatment leads to increase up to a 28% in the AUL of the modified SAP. Moreover, the loss modulus was surprisingly increased, while the storage modulus was enhanced (possibly due to the star architecture of oligomers). Mc and crosslink density values have been estimated based on modified rubber elasticity theory. Salt sensitivity factor (f) was calculated; the modified samples showed lower salt sensitivity in NaCl (f = 0.7) and CaCl2 (f = 0.93–0.95) compared with the intact SAP (f = 0.84 for NaCl, and f = 0.95–0.97 for CaCl2).
Comparative fractographic analysis of composites adhesive joints subjected to mode I delamination
Authors: Silveira Núbia N. A. , Sales Rita C. M. , Brito Camila B. G. , Cândido Geraldo M. , Donadon Maurício V.
Published: October 2018

Adhesive bonding technologies for thermosetting polymer composites have been applied in several industrial sectors, such as marine, automobile, construction, and aeronautical industries due to their excellent mechanical behavior over conventional joining methods. One of the main drawbacks of this joining technology is that they are prone to delamination whilst in service. The overall composite joint structural performance depends upon several factors related to the joint manufacturing process such as surfaces preparation procedure, loading condition, adhesive type, aging effects, and inspection procedures. For this reason, there is clear need to better understand how the joint behavior is affected by these factors and the failure causes in order to improve the design and the joint performance. Within this context, this work presents a comparative fractographic analysis for two different joints types named co‐bonded and secondary bonded tested under Mode I delamination at room temperature. One sample of each was observed through fractographic analysis, to identify similarities and differences between the fracture aspects, which may explain differences in toughness values and fracture behaviors. The main contribution of this article is a new failure analysis methodology focused on a better understanding on failure characteristics of adhesive joints providing a deep and critical insight into main failure mechanisms and damage sequence in composite bonded joints, which may aid analytical validation and numerical models for this type of joints developed elsewhere. Although fracture toughness (GIc) values of each joint are quite similar, some failure aspects and adhesion mechanisms differentiate these two bonding technologies. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:2973–2983, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
The Belgian MicroArray Prenatal (BEMAPRE) database: A systematic nationwide repository of fetal genomic aberrations
Authors: Muys Joke , Blaumeiser Bettina , Jacquemyn Yves , Bandelier Claude , Brison Nathalie , Bulk Saskia , Chiarappa Patrizia , Courtens Winnie , De Leener Anne , De Rademaeker Marjan , Désir Julie , Destrée Anne , Devriendt Koenraad , Dheedene Annelies , Fieuw Annelies , Fransen Erik , Gatot Jean‐Stéphane , Holmgren Philip , Jamar Mauricette , Janssens Sandra , Keymolen Kathelijn , Lederer Damien , Menten Björn , Meuwissen Marije , Parmentier Benoit , Pichon Bruno , Rombout Sonia , Sznajer Yves , Van Den Bogaert Ann , Van Den Bogaert Kris , Vanakker Olivier , Vermeesch Joris , Janssens Katrien
Published: October 2018

Objective

With the replacement of karyotyping by chromosomal microarray (CMA) in invasive prenatal diagnosis, new challenges have arisen. By building a national database, we standardize the classification and reporting of prenatally detected copy number variants (CNVs) across Belgian genetic centers. This database, which will link genetic and ultrasound findings with postnatal development, forms a unique resource to investigate the pathogenicity of variants of uncertain significance and to refine the phenotypic spectrum of pathogenic and susceptibility CNVs.

Methods

The Belgian MicroArray Prenatal (BEMAPRE) consortium is a collaboration of all genetic centers in Belgium. We collected data from all invasive prenatal procedures performed between May 2013 and July 2016.

Results

In this three‐year period, 13 266 prenatal CMAs were performed. By national agreement, a limited number of susceptibility CNVs and no variants of uncertain significance were reported. Added values for using CMA versus conventional karyotyping were 1.8% in the general invasive population and 2.7% in cases with an ultrasound anomaly. Of the reported CNVs, 31.5% would have remained undetected with non‐invasive prenatal test as the first‐tier test.

Conclusion

The establishment of a national database for prenatal CNV data allows for a uniform reporting policy and the investigation of the prenatal and postnatal genotype–phenotype correlation.
Low‐dose versus high‐dose methylprednisolone for children with severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MCMP): Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xu Baoping , Peng Xiaoxia , Yao Yao , Yin Ju , Chen Lanqin , Liu Jun , Wang Hao , Gao Liwei , Shen Adong , Shen Kunling
Published: October 2018

Background

Severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) may develop with long‐term pulmonary outcomes despite treatment with macrolides. Combined treatment with glucocorticoids can improve this outcome, though the optimal dosage is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of low‐ and high‐dose methylprednisolone in reducing the percentage of long‐term pulmonary outcomes for children with severe MPP.

Methods

A randomized, single‐blind, parallel‐controlled, multicenter clinical trial, methylprednisolone for children with severe M. pneumoniae pneumonia (MCMP), is being conducted in China. Pediatric patients (≤18 years of age, expected number = 402) admitted to the hospital with a clinical diagnosis of severe MPP and fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria are randomized (ratio of 1:1) to either a low‐dose (2 mg/kg/d) or high‐dose (10 mg/kg/d) methylprednisolone treatment group for 3 days followed by tapering of methylprednisolone over 12 days and combined with azithromycin. The primary composite outcome will be incidence of atelectasis, bronchiectasis, or bronchiolitis obliterans at 6‐months after treatment. Secondary outcomes include recovery time of patient temperature, proportion of pulmonary lesions absorbed, changes of mucosa identified by bronchoscopy, length of hospital stay, pulmonary function and number of participant(s) needing intensive care. Assessments will be made at baseline, post‐treatment and at 1‐month, 3‐month and 6‐month follow‐ups.

Discussion

This is the first randomized clinical trial designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of low‐ versus high‐dose methylprednisolone for reducing long‐term pulmonary outcomes in pediatric patients with severe MPP. The results of this study will provide scientific evidence to guide clinical practice for the treatment of severe MPP. Trial registration: This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02303587).
Leveraging real‐time data to drive quality improvement in a pediatric health system
Authors: Bhattarai Sopnil , Shah Rahul K.
Published: October 2018

We are inundated by data; healthcare is no different. The electronic medical record, the numerous patient care monitors, and the thousands of medications to be reconciled with specific dosing parameters are a few examples of the omnipresent and intimidating nature of data in healthcare. Across the world, healthcare without data does not exist. The data represent many forms but are quickly moving towards electronic formats. As ubiquitous as data are the near universal finding that such data are lagging. There is an urgent need for real‐time data in improving processes and ultimately outcomes in healthcare. If data lag by four to eight weeks, if not longer, then true change cannot occur and harm continues in that interval. This review article discusses the urgent need for real‐time data and demonstrates examples of how Children's National Medical Center in Washington, DC uses real‐time data to drive outcomes.
End‐of‐life CIGS photovoltaic panel: A source of secondary indium and gallium
Authors: Amato Alessia , Beolchini Francesca
Published: October 2018

The photovoltaic market has boomed in the last decade, and it is becoming much richer of high performance technologies. The copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) panel represents an example of young technology that shows high energy efficiency, kept at extreme weather conditions. Its average lifetime is around 25 years, and a strategy for a convenient recycling should be planned to prevent the future storage of high waste amount. The interest of end‐of‐life CIGS panels is due to their content of critical raw materials, mainly Ga and In, with concentrations around 600 and 90 ppm, respectively, higher than those in the ores. In this context, we tested different leaching agents (H2SO4, HCl, HNO3, citric acid, and NaOH), in the possible presence of a mobilizing agent (H2O2 and glucose), to obtain high‐efficiency metal extraction. Furthermore, to minimize the environmental impact of the process, the experimental activity was combined with the evaluation of the carbon footprint of the experimented options, using the life cycle assessment tool. Overall, the combination of CA and H2O2 appeared the best choice, from both the operative and the sustainability point of view, showing efficiencies higher than 90%, after 1 hour, at 80°C, with a carbon footprint of 0.1‐kg CO2‐eq. The obtained result represents an innovation in the field of end‐of‐life CIGS photovoltaic panel exploitation, and it is the starting point for both secondary In and Ga production, in agreement with the circular economy approach.
Single‐Chain Folding Nanoparticles as Carbon Nanotube Catchers
Authors: Bilgi Mesut , Karaca Balta Demet , Temel Binnur Aydogan , Temel Gokhan
Published: October 2018

This contribution describes a simple method for preparing polymeric nanoparticles using photodimerization of anthracene moieties on the side chain of terpolymers in dilute regime and transformation of obtained polymeric nanoparticles into pyrene functional nanoparticles via Menschutkin quaternization procedure. Subsequently, pyrene possessing polymeric nanoparticles are attached onto multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) surfaces by π–π stacking strategy. Gel permeation chromatography, thermal gravimetric analysis, ultraviolet–visible, and fluorescence spectroscopies are used to analyze modified nanoparticles and their precursors. Electron microscopy and dispersion studies show that pyrene‐modified polymeric nanoparticles are able to interconnect various CNTs. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 2709–2714
Pilot randomized controlled trial of a symptom cluster intervention in advanced cancer
Authors: Wells‐Di Gregorio Sharla M. , Marks Donald R. , DeCola Joseph , Peng Juan , Probst Danielle , Zaleta Alexandra , Benson Don , Cohn David E. , Lustberg Maryam , Carson William E. , Magalang Uly
Published: October 2018

Objective

This study evaluated a three‐session acceptance‐based cognitive behavioral ‐acceptance and commitment therapy (CBT‐ACT) intervention targeting a common symptom cluster in advanced cancer—worry‐insomnia‐depression‐fatigue.

Methods

Twenty‐eight patients with advanced cancer were randomly assigned to the CBT‐ACT intervention or waitlist. At preintervention, participants completed a psychodiagnostic interview, standardized questionnaires, and a sleep diary. Intervention and waitlist groups were reassessed after 6 weeks, at which point the waitlist group completed the intervention.

Results

Participants receiving the intervention demonstrated improved sleep efficiency (P = 0.0062, d = 1.08), sleep latency (P = 0.028, d = −0.86), insomnia severity (P = 0.0047, d = −1.18), and worry (P = 0.026, d = −0.89) compared with waitlist controls. They also demonstrated a 7‐point reduction on depression (P = 0.03, d = −0.88), reduced hyperarousal (P = 0.005, d = −1.51), and a decrease in distress (P = 0.032, d = −0.83). Effects were maintained for the whole sample in sensitivity analyses. Effects on uncertainty intolerance approached significance (P = 0.058). No effect was found on fatigue.

Conclusions

The CBT‐ACT group performed significantly better than the waitlist control group. CBT‐ACT yielded strong effects for worry, sleep, depression, emotional distress, total distress, and hyperarousal. Future studies will enhance the fatigue and uncertainty tolerance components of the intervention.
Quantum chemical studies of porphyrin‐ and expanded porphyrin‐based systems and their potential applications in nanoscience. Latin America research review
Authors: Cárdenas‐Jirón Gloria , Borges‐Martínez Merlys , Mera‐Adasme Raúl , Pino‐Rios Ricardo
Published: October 2018

Porphyrins and expanded porphyrins are fascinating molecular structures, and its wide applicability in different fields of the nanoscience has produced an extensive number of scientific publications. The purpose of this article is to review the research performed on porphyrins and expanded porphyrins in the Latin American region at a theoretical level of quantum chemistry using different methodologies available. The present review is organized considering the most important applications that these molecular systems have found. In this way, we classify the reported works in the following fields studied by the nanoscience: molecular electronics, dye‐sensitized solar cells, and photodynamic therapy. Because of its relevance, we also highlight other reports focused on the topological analysis of the electron density and aromaticity. Current investigation on these topics applied to porphyrin‐ and expanded porphyrin‐based systems and the future perspective in this field are presented.
Collective Learning in Organizations—Opportunities and Constraints: Case Study of an Avalanche Blocking a Railway Line
Authors: Rydstedt Nyman Monika
Published: October 2018

Damaged infrastructures cause costly delays and losses. In this study, a collective learning framework (CLF) and the theory of loops of learning are applied to a case study to develop a conceptual model on how lessons learned may be put to more effective use. Structures for systematic learning from events may serve as important tools in proactive adaptation for a more resilient infrastructure in future. This article studies an avalanche blocking a railway and an adjacent road in northern Sweden, which involves several interdependencies of critical infrastructures and actors. To enhance resilience future risk assessment and SWOT analyses should include the effects from a changing climate on the vulnerabilities of interdependence among multiple stakeholders and infrastructures. Knowledge‐sharing foremost resulted in single‐loop learning, leading to incremental changes. Respondents expressed an understanding of the importance of double‐loops feedback but sensed that they lacked incentives from top levels in the organization for future reporting of experiences. This lack of incentives may impede establishing collective memory. The findings of this study can be used to improve policy recommendations, and support building resilience through products of learning.
Mixed binary‐continuous copula regression models with application to adverse birth outcomes
Authors: Klein Nadja , Kneib Thomas , Marra Giampiero , Radice Rosalba , Rokicki Slawa , McGovern Mark E.
Published: October 2018

Bivariate copula regression allows for the flexible combination of two arbitrary, continuous marginal distributions with regression effects being placed on potentially all parameters of the resulting bivariate joint response distribution. Motivated by the risk factors for adverse birth outcomes, many of which are dichotomous, we consider mixed binary‐continuous responses that extend the bivariate continuous framework to the situation where one response variable is discrete (more precisely, binary) whereas the other response remains continuous. Utilizing the latent continuous representation of binary regression models, we implement a penalized likelihood–based approach for the resulting class of copula regression models and employ it in the context of modeling gestational age and the presence/absence of low birth weight. The analysis demonstrates the advantage of the flexible specification of regression impacts including nonlinear effects of continuous covariates and spatial effects. Our results imply that racial and spatial inequalities in the risk factors for infant mortality are even greater than previously suggested.