bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinspired Highly Anisotropic, Ultrastrong and Stiff, and Osteoconductive Mineralized Wood Hydrogel Composites for Bone Repair
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Fang Ju , Zhu Weiwei , Zhong Chuanxin , Ye Dongdong , Zhu Mingyu , Lu Xiong , Zhao Yusheng , Ren Fuzeng
Published: March 2021

Anisotropic hydrogels mimicking the biological tissues with directional functions play essential roles in damage‐tolerance, cell guidance and mass transport. However, conventional synthetic hydrogels often have an isotropic network structure, insufficient mechanical properties and lack of osteoconductivity, which greatly limit their applications for bone repair. Herein, inspired by natural bone and wood, a biomimetic strategy is presented to fabricate highly anisotropic, ultrastrong and stiff, and osteoconductive hydrogel composites via impregnation of biocompatible hydrogels into the delignified wood followed by in situ mineralization of hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanocrystals. The well‐aligned cellulose nanofibrils endow the composites with highly anisotropic structural and mechanical properties. The strong intermolecular bonds of the aligned cellulose fibrils and hydrogel/wood interaction, and the reinforcing nanofillers of HAp enable the composites remarkable tensile strength of 67.8 MPa and elastic modulus of 670 MPa, three orders of magnitude higher than those of conventional alginate hydrogels. More importantly, the biocompatible hydrogel together with aligned HAp nanocrystals could effectively promote osteogenic differentiation in vitro and induce bone formation in vivo. The bone ingrowth into the hydrogel composite scaffold also yields good osteointegration. This study provides a low‐cost, eco‐friendly, feasible, and scalable approach for fabricating anisotropic, strong, stiff, hydrophilic, and osteoconductive hydrogel composites for bone repair.
Ultraconformable, Self‐Adhering Surface Electrodes for Measuring Electrical Signals in Plants
Authors: Meder Fabian , Saar Sirgi , Taccola Silvia , Filippeschi Carlo , Mattoli Virgilio , Mazzolai Barbara
Published: March 2021

The electrical signals in plant's physiological processes are of great interest in biology, biohybrid robotics, and sensors for interfacing the living organisms with an electronic readout and control. This paper reports on the application of conformable, self‐adhering surface electrodes for the measurement and bidirectional stimulation of electrical signals in plants. The inkjet‐printed poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate based electrodes are <3 µm thick, light‐weight, soft and flexible, and can be easily and non‐invasively transferred onto plant's outer organs for surface potential recordings due to their realization on tattoo transfer paper. The devices prove to be extremely versatile for analyzing electrical signals in Dionaea muscipula, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Codariocalyx motorius and for stimulating mechanical responses in D. muscipula. A benefit over traditional electrodes is the van der Waals self‐adherence of the thin electrodes, their intrinsic flexibility and adaptation also on small leaves while providing excellent readout. The same electrode allows long‐term multicycle measurements over at least 10 days and, moreover, straightforward recordings on fast‐moving organs such as snapping fly traps and endogenously oscillating leaflets. The results confirm that self‐adhering soft organic electronics are particularly suitable for plant electrical signal analysis when easy‐application, self‐adaptation, and long‐term performance are required in plant science, biohybrid robotics, and biohybrid sensors.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Anchors in Electronics Applications
Authors: Kang Seohyun , Byeon Seo Eun , Yoon Hyo Jae
Published: March 2021

Since the first demonstration of chemisorption of N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) on a gold substrate by Weidner and Siemeling in 2011, NHCs for anchors to deposit molecules on metallic surfaces are gathering increasing attention in academic research. The covalent chemistry of divalent carbenic C atom in NHCs with coinage metal substates can overcome the limitations that traditional thiol anchors have encountered. This review covers recent advances on NHC anchor‐based molecular devices for electronics applications through the following stepwise approach. (1) The background of covalent bonding of NHC with coinage metals is briefly introduced. (2) Next, a comprehensive summary about functions of NHC anchor‐based molecular devices under electric fields is provided. (3) Last, we wrap up this review, discussing future challenges and perspectives.
Angiotensin II modulates the murine hematopoietic stem cell and progenitors cocultured with stromal S17 cells
Authors: Costa Maíra M. , Stilhano Roberta S. , Oliveira Carlos R. , Barbosa Chistiano M. V. , Pereira Gustavo J. S. , Paredes‐Gamero Edgar J. , Nakaie Clovis R. , Smaili Soraya S. , Bincoletto Claudia
Published: March 2021

Although the existence of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) in the bone marrow is clear, the exact role of this system in hematopoiesis has not yet been fully characterized. Here the direct role of angiotensin II (AngII) in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), common myeloid progenitors (CMPs), granulocyte/monocyte progenitors (GMPs), and megakaryocytes/erythroid progenitors (MEPs), using a system of coculture with stromal S17 cells. Flow cytometry analysis showed that AngII increases the percentage of HSC and GMP, while reducing CMP with no effect on MEP. According to these data, AngII increased the total number of mature Gr‐1+/Mac‐1+ cells without changes in Terr119+ cells. AngII does not induce cell death in the population of LSK cells. In these populations, treatment with AngII decreases the expression of Ki67+ protein with no changes in the Notch1 expression, suggesting a role for AngII on the quiescence of immature cells. In addition, exposure to AngII from murine bone marrow cells increased the number of CFU‐GM and BFU‐E in a clonogenic assay. In conclusion, our data showed that AngII is involved in the regulation of hematopoiesis with a special role in HSC, suggesting that AngII should be evaluated in coculture systems, especially in cases that require the expansion of these cells in vitro, still a significant challenge for therapeutic applications in humans.
Low level of stromal lectin‐like oxidized LDL receptor 1 and CD8+ cytotoxic T‐lymphocytes indicate poor prognosis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Katayama Chika , Yokobori Takehiko , Ozawa Naoya , Suga Kunihiko , Shiraishi Takuya , Okada Takuhisa , Osone Katsuya , Katoh Ryuji , Suto Toshinaga , Motegi Yoko , Ogawa Hiroomi , Sano Akihiko , Sakai Makoto , Sohda Makoto , Erkhem‐Ochir Bilguun , Gombodorj Navchaa , Katayama Ayaka , Oyama Tetsunari , Shirabe Ken , Kuwano Hiroyuki , Saeki Hiroshi
Published: March 2021

Background

Lectin‐like oxidized LDL receptor‐1 (LOX‐1) has been identified as a new marker for functional myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) that exhibit an immunosuppressive phenotype in the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the role of LOX‐1+ cells in the TME of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unknown.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the expression and significance of LOX‐1 in the TME of clinical CRC specimens.

Methods and results

We performed immunohistochemical and genetic analyses of LOX‐1, CD8, KRAS, and BRAF in 128 resected CRC specimens and determined the expression of IFN‐γ and IL‐10 using real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. We analyzed the correlation between LOX‐1, TME factors, gene alteration, clinicopathological factors, and disease prognosis. The co‐expression pattern of LOX‐1, hematopoietic markers, and a fibroblast marker was evaluated using multiplex immunofluorescence staining. Low stromal LOX‐1 expression and low intratumoral CD8+ cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte (CTL) status correlated with poor prognosis. Moreover, stromal LOX‐1‐low/CD8+ CTL‐low status was the most important independent prognostic factor of poor overall survival. Most of the LOX‐1+ stromal cells were positive for CD163+, indicating they were CD163+ M2 macrophages.

Conclusions

The MDSC marker, LOX‐1, was mainly expressed by M2 macrophages in CRC tissues. LOX‐1+ macrophages and CD8+ CTLs may serve as useful biomarkers for predicting the prognosis of CRC.
Visual perception of natural colours in paintings: An eye‐tracking study of Grünewald'sResurrection
Authors: Fontoura Pablo , Menu Michel
Published: March 2021

This article aims to reveal aspects of the visual perception of the natural colours of Matthias Grünewald'sResurrectionpanel, part of theIsenheim Altarpiece(1512‐1516). To identify, which colours are mostly perceived, we have performed an eye‐tracking study with 52 participants at the Unterlinden Museum, in Colmar, France, in which we recorded the participant's eye movements and their spontaneous comments when looking at Grünewald's work, using an innovative approach to let visitors be free while recording their gaze in a realistic observation condition. Results indicate that although orange and red colours are perceived faster, yellows and browns are focused for a more extended period and visited more frequently. TheResurrection's colours are perceived by participants as containing strong emotional content, being explicitly crucial for the full understanding of the painting. Yellow remains the most salient colour of the artwork for the observers, and it is associated with light and transcendent content.
Long‐Term Regularity of 3D Gravity Water Waves
Authors: Zheng Fan
Published: March 2021

We study a fundamental model in fluid mechanics—the 3D gravity water wave equation, in which an incompressible fluid occupying half the 3D space flows under its own gravity. In this paper we show long‐term regularity of solutions whose initial data is small but not localized.

Our results include: almost global well‐posedness for unweighted Sobolev initial data and global well‐posedness for weighted Sobolev initial data with weight |x|α for any α > 0. In the periodic case, if the initial data lives on an R by R torus, and ϵ close to the constant solution, then the life span of the solution is at least R/ϵ2(logR)2. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Efficacy and Safety of Ticagrelor Monotherapy in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Gelbenegger Georg , Schoergenhofer Christian , Jilma Bernd , Gager Gloria M. , Dizdarevic Al Medina , Mamas Mamas A. , Parapid Biljana , Velagapudi Poonam , Siller‐Matula Jolanta M.
Published: March 2021

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) and subsequent P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy, particularly ticagrelor, is an emerging treatment strategy in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This meta‐analysis was designed to investigate whether short‐term DAPT followed by ticagrelor monotherapy is associated with a favorable outcome as compared with standard DAPT (1–3 months of DAPT was termed “short‐term” DAPT, 6–12 months DAPT was termed “standard” DAPT). The primary outcome was the composite of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) comprising myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death. Secondary outcomes included all‐cause mortality and net adverse clinical events (NACE; myocardial infarction, stroke, all‐cause death, stent thrombosis, and major bleeding). The primary safety outcome was major bleeding. Three studies comprising 26,143 patients were included. The risk of MACE was similar between the two treatment groups (risk ratio (RR) 0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.72–1.02, P = 0.08, I2 = 22%). Short‐term DAPT followed by ticagrelor monotherapy resulted in a 20% relative risk reduction of all‐cause mortality (RR 0.80, 95% CI, 0.65–0.98, P = 0.03, I2 = 0%) and an 18% relative risk reduction of NACE (RR 0.82, 95% CI, 0.71–0.94, P = 0.005, I2 = 33%) as compared with standard DAPT. Short‐term DAPT followed by ticagrelor monotherapy significantly decreased the risk of major bleeding (RR 0.67, 95% CI, 0.49–0.92, P = 0.01, I2 = 65%). In patients with acute coronary syndrome, short‐term DAPT followed by ticagrelor monotherapy resulted in an unchanged ischemic risk but a significantly lower bleeding risk compared with standard DAPT. Short‐term DAPT followed by ticagrelor monotherapy compared with standard DAPT resulted in a favorable safety and efficacy profile. Direct comparisons of aspirin vs. ticagrelor monotherapy following PCI are needed.
Diagnostic efficacy of ascites cell block for ovarian clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Iwahashi Hideki , Miyamoto Morikazu , Minabe Shinya , Hada Taira , Sakamoto Takahiro , Ishibashi Hiroki , Kakimoto Soichiro , Matsuura Hiroko , Suzuki Rie , Matsukuma Susumu , Tsuda Hitoshi , Takano Masashi
Published: March 2021

Background

Ascites cytology is important for determining the stage and treatment methods for ovarian clear cell carcinoma (CCC) as defined by the 2014 International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology classification.

Methods

Patients with CCC who underwent surgery at our hospital between January 2012 and December 2019 and who received cytodiagnosis of their ascites using Papanicolaou (Pap) and May–Grünwald–Giemsa (MGG) staining, and cell block methods were identified. The cell block technique was performed using hematoxylin‐eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemical staining for hepatocyte nuclear factor‐1β (HNF‐1β), estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and Wilms tumor‐1 (WT‐1). Cancer cells of CCC were defined as tumor cells that were positive for HNF‐1β and negative for ER, PR, and WT‐1. The diagnostic accuracy of ascites cytology using Pap and MGG staining and cell block methods was examined.

Results

Based on cytological data, our study included 17 patients: seven (41.1%) with malignant (MAL) ascites, eight (47.1%) with negative for malignancy (NFM), and two (11.8%) with atypia of undetermined significance (AUS) because of a few atypical cells based on Pap and MGG staining. Malignant cells diagnosed by cell blocks were detected in 7/7 patients with MAL ascites based on PAP and MGG staining, 2/8 (25.0%) patients with NFM, and 1/2 (50%) patients with AUS.

Conclusion

These findings show that the cell block method combined with the immunohistochemical investigation may be useful for increasing the diagnostic accuracy of malignant cells in CCC.
Deciphering the diet of a wandering spider (Phoneutria boliviensis; Araneae: Ctenidae) by DNA metabarcoding of gut contents
Authors: Sierra Ramírez Diego , Guevara Giovany , Franco Pérez Lida Marcela , van der Meijden Arie , González‐Gómez Julio César , Carlos Valenzuela‐Rojas Juan , Prada Quiroga Carlos Fernando
Published: March 2021

Arachnids are the most abundant land predators. Despite the importance of their functional roles as predators and the necessity to understand their diet for conservation, the trophic ecology of many arachnid species has not been sufficiently studied. In the case of the wandering spider, Phoneutria boliviensis F. O. Pickard‐Cambridge, 1897, only field and laboratory observational studies on their diet exist. By using a DNA metabarcoding approach, we compared the prey found in the gut content of males and females from three distant Colombian populations of P. boliviensis. By DNA metabarcoding of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), we detected and identified 234 prey items (individual captured by the spider) belonging to 96 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), as prey for this wandering predator. Our results broaden the known diet of P. boliviensis with at least 75 prey taxa not previously registered in fieldwork or laboratory experimental trials. These results suggest that P. boliviensis feeds predominantly on invertebrates (Diptera, Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Orthoptera) and opportunistically on small squamates. Intersex and interpopulation differences were also observed. Assuming that prey preference does not vary between populations, these differences are likely associated with a higher local prey availability. Finally, we suggest that DNA metabarcoding can be used for evaluating subtle differences in the diet of distinct populations of P. boliviensis, particularly when predation records in the field cannot be established or quantified using direct observation.
Local environment‐driven adaptive evolution in a marine invasive ascidian (Molgula manhattensis)
Authors: Chen Yiyong , Gao Yangchun , Huang Xuena , Li Shiguo , Zhan Aibin
Published: March 2021

Elucidating molecular mechanisms of environment‐driven adaptive evolution in marine invaders is crucial for understanding invasion success and further predicting their future invasions. Although increasing evidence suggests that adaptive evolution could contribute to organisms’ adaptation to varied environments, there remain knowledge gaps regarding how environments influence genomic variation in invaded habitats and genetic bases underlying local adaptation for most marine invaders. Here, we performed restriction‐site‐associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) to assess population genetic diversity and further investigate genomic signatures of local adaptation in the marine invasive ascidian, Molgula manhattensis. We revealed that most invasive populations exhibited significant genetic differentiation, low recent gene flow, and no signal of significant population bottleneck. Based on three genome scan approaches, we identified 109 candidate loci potentially under environmental selection. Redundancy analysis and variance partitioning analysis suggest that local environmental factors, particularly the salinity‐related variables, represent crucial evolutionary forces in driving adaptive divergence. Using the newly developed transcriptome as a reference, 14 functional genes were finally obtained with potential roles in salinity adaptation, including SLC5A1 and SLC9C1 genes from the solute carrier gene (SLC) superfamily. Our findings confirm that differed local environments could rapidly drive adaptive divergence among invasive populations and leave detectable genomic signatures in marine invaders.
Human type 1 and type 2 conventional dendritic cells express indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase 1 with functional effects on T cell priming
Authors: Sittig Simone P. , van Beek Jasper J. P. , Flórez‐Grau Georgina , Weiden Jorieke , Buschow Sonja I. , van der Net Mirjam C. , van Slooten Rianne , Verbeek Marcel M. , Geurtz P. Ben H. , Textor Johannes , Figdor Carl G. , de Vries I. Jolanda M. , Schreibelt Gerty
Published: March 2021

Dendritic cells (DCs) are key regulators of the immune system that shape T cell responses. Regulation of T cell induction by DCs may occur via the intracellular enzyme indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase 1 (IDO), which catalyzes conversion of the essential amino acid tryptophan into kynurenine. Here, we examined the role of IDO in human peripheral blood plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs), and type 1 and type 2 conventional DCs (cDC1s and cDC2s). Our data demonstrate that under homeostatic conditions, IDO is selectively expressed by cDC1s. IFN‐γ or TLR ligation further increases IDO expression in cDC1s and induces modest expression of the enzyme in cDC2s, but not pDCs. IDO expressed by conventional DCs is functionally active as measured by kynurenine production. Furthermore, IDO activity in TLR‐stimulated cDC1s and cDC2s inhibits T cell proliferation in settings were DC‐T cell cell‐cell contact does not play a role. Selective inhibition of IDO1 with epacadostat, an inhibitor currently tested in clinical trials, rescued T cell proliferation without affecting DC maturation status or their ability to cross‐present soluble antigen. Our findings provide new insights into the functional specialization of human blood DC subsets and suggest a possible synergistic enhancement of therapeutic efficacy by combining DC‐based cancer vaccines with IDO inhibition.
Capillary electrophoretic method for Staphylococcus aureus detection by using a novel antimicrobial peptide
Authors: Hong Tingting , Qiu Lin , Rui Wen , Li Ying , Zheng Ronghui , Guo Qianqian , Zhou Shuwen , Cui Pengfei , Sheng Jingyu , Ni Xinye , Wang Jianhao , Jiang Pengju
Published: March 2021

A novel peptide containing antimicrobial sequence and gelatinase cleavage sites was designed for Staphylococcus aureus detection. Since Staphylococcus aureus could secrete gelatinase, the fluorescein labeled peptide GKRWWKWWRRPLGVRGC could be recognized and cleaved. The obtained products were able to be analyzed by capillary electrophoresis with fluorescence detection. To explore the effect of Staphylococcus aureus concentration on enzyme digestion ability of peptide, Staphylococcus aureus with different concentrations were incubated with the peptide. Results indicated that capillary electrophoretic method was efficient for determining Staphylococcus aureus content. Compared with traditional approaches for Staphylococcus aureus detection, capillary electrophoresis possessed higher efficiency, enhanced sensitivity, and low sample consumption. Moreover, the proposed peptide also presented desirable antimicrobial activity. It suggested that the novel antimicrobial peptide used in this research opens a new path of detecting Staphylococcus aureus by capillary electrophoretic method.
Numerical investigation of corroded middle‐high strength pipeline subjected to combined internal pressure and axial compressive loading
Authors: Lu Linlin , Liang Lecai
Published: March 2021

Buried oil and gas pipelines may face the threat of geological disasters such as landslides, faults, and floods. However, long‐term buried oil and gas pipelines often have corrosion defects, which bring greater challenges to the safe operation of pipelines. In this study, via the finite element analysis method validated by the testing results, the blasting pressure of a middle‐high strength pipeline with corrosion defects under an axial compressive load, the distribution of the von Mises stress on the pipeline surface, and the local buckling behavior of the pipeline were studied. In the analysis of the influencing factors, the axially compressive load, the size of the corrosion defects, and the characteristics of the pipeline material were studied. Based on 437 sample points, an artificial neural network was adopted to predict the burst pressure of a pipeline with corrosion defects. By comparing the prediction results with the numerical simulation results, the accuracy verification of the prediction model was conducted. When the axially compressive load increases to a certain value, the burst pressure of a pipeline with corrosion defects will begin to decrease rapidly as the axial compressive load increases. The larger the size of the corrosion defect, the smaller the burst pressure of the pipeline. The depth and length of the corrosion defect have a significant influence on the blasting pressure. The lower the steel grade of the pipeline, the smaller the Y/T ratio, and the lower the bursting pressure of the pipeline. Both the axial compressive load and the size of the corrosion defect affect the failure mode of the pipeline. When the corrosion defect's size is small and the axial compressive load is small, the pipeline material fails. When the corrosion defect's size is large enough, and the axial compressive load is large enough, the pipeline is prone to structural instability. An increase in the axial compressive load and the decrease in the corrosion defect's size cause the local stress concentration of the corrosion defects to become more significant. When the axial compressive load on the pipeline is small, the increase in the axial compressive load does not affect the bursting pressure of the pipeline, but it greatly increases the degree of the local buckling of the pipeline. A decrease in the depth and width of the corrosion defects and an increase in their length results in the local buckling of the pipeline becoming more severe.
Resting state functional connectivity in adolescent synthetic cannabinoid users with and without attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Yüncü Zeki , Cakmak Celik Zehra , Colak Ciğdem , Thapa Tribikram , Fornito Alex , Bora Emre , Kitis Omer , Zorlu Nabi
Published: March 2021

Objective

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among adolescents. The first aim of the current study was to examine resting‐state functional connectivity (rsFC) in SC users compared to controls. Our second aim was to examine the influence of comorbid attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptomatology on rsFC changes in SC users compared to controls.

Methods

Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) analysis included 25 SC users (14 without ADHD and 11 with ADHD combined type) and 12 control subjects.

Results

We found (i) higher rsFC between the default mode network (DMN) and salience network, dorsal attention network and cingulo‐opercular network, and (ii) lower rsFC within the DMN and between the DMN and visual network in SC users compared to controls. There were no significant differences between SC users with ADHD and controls, nor were there any significant differences between SC users with and without ADHD.

Conclusions

We found the first evidence of abnormalities within and between resting state networks in adolescent SC users without ADHD. In contrast, SC users with ADHD showed no differences compared to controls. These results suggest that comorbidity of ADHD and substance dependence may show different rsFC alterations than substance use alone.
Expression quantitative trait loci of genes predicting outcome are associated with survival of multiple myeloma patients
Authors: Macauda Angelica , Piredda Chiara , Clay‐Gilmour Alyssa I. , Sainz Juan , Buda Gabriele , Markiewicz Miroslaw , Barington Torben , Ziv Elad , Hildebrandt Michelle A. T. , Belachew Alem A. , Varkonyi Judit , Prejzner Witold , Druzd‐Sitek Agnieszka , Spinelli John , Andersen Niels Frost , Hofmann Jonathan N. , Dudziński Marek , Martinez‐Lopez Joaquin , Iskierka‐Jazdzewska Elzbieta , Milne Roger L. , Mazur Grzegorz , Giles Graham G. , Ebbesen Lene Hyldahl , Rymko Marcin , Jamroziak Krzysztof , Subocz Edyta , Reis Rui Manuel , Garcia‐Sanz Ramon , Suska Anna , Haastrup Eva Kannik , Zawirska Daria , Grzasko Norbert , Vangsted Annette Juul , Dumontet Charles , Kruszewski Marcin , Dutka Magdalena , Camp Nicola J. , Waller Rosalie G. , Tomczak Waldemar , Pelosini Matteo , Raźny Małgorzata , Marques Herlander , Abildgaard Niels , Wątek Marzena , Jurczyszyn Artur , Brown Elizabeth E. , Berndt Sonja , Butrym Aleksandra , Vachon Celine M. , Norman Aaron D. , Slager Susan L. , Gemignani Federica , Canzian Federico , Campa Daniele
Published: March 2021

Gene expression profiling can be used for predicting survival in multiple myeloma (MM) and identifying patients who will benefit from particular types of therapy. Some germline single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) act as expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) showing strong associations with gene expression levels. We performed an association study to test whether eQTLs of genes reported to be associated with prognosis of MM patients are directly associated with measures of adverse outcome. Using the genotype‐tissue expression portal, we identified a total of 16 candidate genes with at least one eQTL SNP associated with their expression with P < 10−7 either in EBV‐transformed B‐lymphocytes or whole blood. We genotyped the resulting 22 SNPs in 1327 MM cases from the International Multiple Myeloma rESEarch (IMMEnSE) consortium and examined their association with overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS), adjusting for age, sex, country of origin and disease stage. Three polymorphisms in two genes (TBRG4‐rs1992292, TBRG4‐rs2287535 and ENTPD1‐rs2153913) showed associations with OS at P < .05, with the former two also associated with PFS. The associations of two polymorphisms in TBRG4 with OS were replicated in 1277 MM cases from the International Lymphoma Epidemiology (InterLymph) Consortium. A meta‐analysis of the data from IMMEnSE and InterLymph (2579 cases) showed that TBRG4‐rs1992292 is associated with OS (hazard ratio = 1.14, 95% confidence interval 1.04‐1.26, P = .007). In conclusion, we found biologically a plausible association between a SNP in TBRG4 and OS of MM patients.
Cellular senescence: Silent operator and therapeutic target in cancer
Authors: Ramu Deepika , Shan Teoh Wei , Hirpara Jayshree L. , Pervaiz Shazib
Published: March 2021

The process of carcinogenesis and its progression involves an intricate interplay between a number of signaling networks, metabolic pathways and the microenvironment. These include an alteration in the cellular redox metabolism and deregulation of cell cycle checkpoints. Similar to the dichotomy of redox signaling in cancer cell fate and state determination, a diverging effect of an irreversible cell cycle arrest or senescence on carcinogenesis has been demonstrated. In this regard, while overwhelming oxidative stress has a damaging effect on tissue architecture and organ function and promotes death execution, a mild “pro‐oxidant” environment is conducive for cell proliferation, growth and survival. Similarly, cellular senescence has been shown to elicit both a tumor suppressor and an oncogenic effect in a context‐dependent manner. Notably, there appears to be a crosstalk between these two critical regulators of cell fate and state, particularly from the standpoint of the divergent effects on processes that promote or abate carcinogenesis. This review aims to provide an overview of these overarching themes and attempts to highlight critical intersection nodes, which are emerging as potential diagnostic and/or therapeutic targets for novel anticancer strategies.
Surface activation with oxygen plasma promotes osteogenesis with enhanced extracellular matrix formation in three‐dimensional microporous scaffolds
Authors: Yamada Shuntaro , Yassin Mohammed A. , Weigel Tobias , Schmitz Tobias , Hansmann Jan , Mustafa Kamal
Published: March 2021

Various types of synthetic polyesters have been developed as biomaterials for tissue engineering. These materials commonly possess biodegradability, biocompatibility, and formability, which are preferable properties for bone regeneration. The major challenge of using synthetic polyesters is the result of low cell affinity due to their hydrophobic nature, which hinders efficient cell seeding and active cell dynamics. To improve wettability, plasma treatment is widely used in industry. Here, we performed surface activation with oxygen plasma to hydrophobic copolymers, poly(l‐lactide‐co‐trimethylene carbonate), which were shaped in 2D films and 3D microporous scaffolds, and then we evaluated the resulting surface properties and the cellular responses of rat bone marrow stem cells (rBMSC) to the material. Using scanning electron microscopy and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, we demonstrated that short‐term plasma treatment increased nanotopographical surface roughness and wettability with minimal change in surface chemistry. On treated surfaces, initial cell adhesion and elongation were significantly promoted, and seeding efficiency was improved. In an osteoinductive environment, rBMSC on plasma‐treated scaffolds exhibited accelerated osteogenic differentiation with osteogenic markers including RUNX2, osterix, bone sialoprotein, and osteocalcin upregulated, and a greater amount of collagen matrix and mineral deposition were found. This study shows the utility of plasma surface activation for polymeric scaffolds in bone tissue engineering.
Gallium chloride phthalocyanines possessing 4‐(trifluoromethoxy)phenoxy units: Synthesis, characterization, and photophysicochemical investigations
Authors: Farajzadeh Nazli , Atmaca Göknur Yaşa , Cinar Mehmet Emin , Erdoğmuş Ali , Koçak Makbule Burkut
Published: March 2021

This study reports synthesis of three new metallophthalocyanines namely 1(4),8(11),15(18),22(25)‐tetrakis‐(4‐(trifluoromethoxy)phenoxy) phthalocyaninato} Gallium chloride (1‐Ga), {2(3),9(10),16(17),23(24)‐tetrakis‐(4‐(trifluoromethoxy)phenoxy)phthalocyaninato} Gallium chloride (2‐Ga), and {2,3,9,10,17,18,23,24‐octakis‐(4‐(trifluoromethoxy)phenoxy)phthalocyaninato} Gallium chloride (3‐Ga). The newly synthesized macromolecules were characterized using different spectroscopic approaches, such as Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR), ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis), and mass (MS) spectroscopy. Aggregation properties of the resulting compounds were studied at different concentrations ranging from 4 × 10−6 to 14 × 10−6 M. Density functional theory level computations were conducted to shed light on their electronic properties. The effect of the number and position of the substituent on photophysicochemical properties of the gallium chloride complexes (1‐Ga, 2‐Ga, and 3‐Ga) was studied for the examination of their performance as photosensitizer candidates in photodynamic therapy (PDT), comparatively. The complex 3‐Ga shows up the highest singlet oxygen quantum yield (ΦΔ = 0.87). The photophysical and photochemical features of the stated compounds are useful for PDT applications.
Beyond emotion valence and arousal: A new focus on the target of leader emotion expression within leader–member dyads
Authors: Silard Anthony , Dasborough Marie T.
Published: March 2021

To date, most research on emotion and leadership in organizations has emphasized only one dimension of emotion, valence; and only some research has mentioned the emotion dimension of arousal. An organizing framework for making sense of the effects of leader emotions vis‐à‐vis the direction in which those emotions are targeted, however, has yet to be developed. To address this shortcoming in the literature, we present a new theoretical framework to explore the impact of the target of leader emotion within leader–member dyads—when the emotion is targeting either the follower or the leader themselves. We theorize that leader emotions have disparate effects on followers in high‐ and low‐quality leader–member relationships, depending on whether the emotions are directed externally toward followers or self‐directed toward the leader. Together, the valence, arousal, and target of the leaders' emotional expressions are signals that shape followers' emotions and, in turn, the subsequent quality of their leader–member exchange relationships.
One‐Step Synthesis of Alkaline‐Soluble Polystyrene Containing Trimethoxysilyl‐ and Boronic Acid‐Moieties as Inorganic, Reactive Pendant Groups for Photosensitive Materials
Authors: Doi Takashi , Sugiura Makoto , Shimokawa Tsutomu
Published: March 2021

It is of great interest in simple preparation of organic–inorganic hybrid thermoset soluble in alkaline developer, intended for photosensitive materials used in the field of semiconductor packaging based on sophisticated molecular design from the viewpoint of performance improvement and cost reduction. Here successful one‐step synthesis of alkaline‐soluble polystyrene with three kinds of pendant groups along the chain; trimethoxysilyl (TMS), boronic acid (BA), and hexafluoroisopropylalcohol (HFA) groups is shown. Solvent composition‐based equilibrium control of reactions involving the inorganic pendant groups (TMS and BA) as well as the hydrogen bonding ability and sterically bulky structure of the HFA group are effective in suppressing cross‐linking reactions during polymerization. The latter is confirmed through DFT calculation and terpolymerization experiments where the effect of the HFA group is compared to other ten kinds of p‐substituted functional groups. The obtained terpolymer is soluble in alkaline developer and forms an insoluble membrane with high heat‐resistance after heat treatment. Furthermore, its photosensitive polymer composition with photochemical acid generator exhibits negative‐type photosensitivity. The organic–inorganic hybrid thermosetting polystyrene is a promising material for semiconductor package applications.
Propeller posteromedial thigh perforator flaps for coverage of extensive perineal defects
Authors: Kwon Hyo Jeong , Seo Jeong Hwa , Choi Jong Yun , Seo Bommie Florence , Kwon Ho , Jung Sung‐No
Published: March 2021

Background

Reconstruction of perineal defect is challenging. The goal of reconstruction is to maintain normal function with good esthetic outcomes. Coverage of the perineal defect is often difficult with one loco‐regional flap when the size of defect is very extensive. In this article, clinical applications of the propeller posteromedial thigh perforator (PMTP) flap for extensive perineal defects were described.

Patients and Methods

Eight patients underwent perineal reconstruction with propeller PMTP flaps from March 2013 to December 2018. The average age of the patients was 65 years (range: 52–80 years). The causes of the defects included infection and skin cancers. The perforator was a branch of deep femoral artery. The flap was harvested as a perforator‐based flap and rotated 180° to the defect area (propeller flap design).

Results

The average flap size was 256.5 cm2 (range: 136–400 cm2) and average follow‐up period was 22.4 months (range: 6–48 months). All flaps survived after surgery without major complications. The donor sites were all primarily closed and the patients were all satisfied during the follow‐up period.

Conclusion

The propeller PMTP flap is an adequate new option for reconstructing extensive perineal defects. The flap avoids the need for microanastomosis and replaces the defect with similar tissue.
Mechanical and thermal properties of date palm/kenaf fiber‐reinforced epoxy hybrid composites
Authors: Ghori Syed Waheedullah , Rao Gunji Srinivasa
Published: March 2021

This study evaluates the thermal and mechanical properties of epoxy hybrid composites reinforced with date palm fiber (DPF) and kenaf fiber (KF) at various fiber loadings. Flexural properties, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) of hybrid composites were reported. The flexural properties revealed the effect of fiber ratio on flexural strength and modulus; a higher kenaf ratio showed a higher flexural modulus. TGA revealed the effect of lignin present in the DPF, which affected the glass transition significantly. In DMA characterization, storage modulus revealed that 7DP3K showed higher modulus in the initial stage and had better glass transition than others. The loss modulus showed that the peak of 7DP3K had higher loss modulus, glass transition at a higher temperature, and wider relaxation period. Damping factor also showed that 7DP3K had peak at a higher temperature. The result showed that KF has positively impacted on DPF to improve the mechanical and thermal properties. The hybrid fibers in epoxy composites were effective in increasing the dynamic mechanical properties and flexural strength ascribed to the improved matrix/fiber bonding. The possible applications of the hybrid composites may be in building industry and automobiles. This study gives directions for further research on comparison of treated hybrid composites with untreated ones.
Use of preventive drugs during the last year of life in older adults with cancer or chronic progressive diseases
Authors: Bosetti Cristina , Santucci Claudia , Pasina Luca , Fortino Ida , Merlino Luca , Corli Oscar , Nobili Alessandro
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the prescription of preventive medications with questionable usefulness in community dwelling elderly adults with cancer or chronic progressive diseases during the last year of life.

Methods

Through the utilization of the healthcare databases of the Lombardy region, Italy, we identified two retrospective cohorts of patients aged 65 years or more, who died in 2018 and had a diagnosis of either a solid cancer (N = 19 367) or a chronic progressive disease (N = 27 819). We estimated prescription of eight major classes of preventive drugs 1 year and 1 month before death; continuation or initiation of preventive drug use during the last month of life was also investigated.

Results

Over the last year of life, in both oncologic and non‐oncologic patients, we observed a modest decrease in the prescription of blood glucose‐lowering drugs, anti‐hypertensives, lipid‐modifying agents, and bisphosphonates, and a slight increase in the prescription of vitamins, minerals, antianemic drugs, and antithrombotic agents (among oncologic patients only). One month before death, the prescription of preventive drugs was still common, particularly for anti‐hypertensives, antithrombotics, and antianemics, with more than 60% of patients continuing to be prescribed most preventive drugs and an over 10% starting a therapy with an antithrombotic, an antianemic, or a vitamin or mineral supplement.

Conclusion

These findings support the need for an appropriate drug review and improvement in the quality of drug prescription for vulnerable populations at the end‐of‐life.
Stability of the helium atom embedded in classical nonideal plasmas
Authors: Das Biswajit , Ghoshal Arijit
Published: March 2021

Properties of the ground state of the helium atom embedded in classical nonideal plasmas have been investigated within the framework of variational method. The background plasma is described by a pseudopotential which has been deduced from the sequential solution of Bogolyubov's hierarchy equations. An extensive trial wave function is employed in Rayleigh–Ritz variational principle to compute various quantities associated with the ground state of helium atom quite accurately. A detailed study is made on the changes in those quantities introduced by the varying nonideality of the plasma in a wide range. In particular, special emphasis is made to study the stability of the atom in the plasma by computing the critical values of screening parameter and nonideal parameter accurately. To the best of our knowledge, such a study on the stability of helium atom in classical nonideal plasmas is reported for the first time in the literature.
Suspension button constructs restore posterior knee laxity in solid tibial avulsion of the posterior cruciate ligament
Authors: Forkel Philipp , Buchmann Louis , Lang Jan J. , Burgkart Rainer , Imhoff Andreas B. , Mehl Julian , Feucht Matthias J. , Lutz Patrizia , Schmitt Andreas
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Dislocated tibial avulsions of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) require surgical intervention. Several arthroscopic strategies are options to fix the fragment and restore posterior laxity, including two types of suspension button devices: adjustable (self-locking) and rigid knotted systems. Our hypothesis was that a rigid knotted button construct has superior biomechanical properties regarding laxity restoration compared with an adjustable system. Both techniques were compared with standard screw fixation and the native PCL.

Methods

Sixty porcine knees were dissected. The constructs were tested for elongation, stiffness, yield force, load to failure force, and failure mode in a material testing machine. Group N (native, intact PCL) was used as a control group. In group DB (Dogbone™), TR (Tightrope™), and S (screw), a standardized block osteotomy with the osteotomized fragment attached to the PCL was set. The DB and TR groups simulated using a suspension button system with either a rigid knotted (DB) or adjustable system (TR). These groups were compared to a screw technique (S) simulating antegrade screw fixation from posterior.

Results

Comparing the different techniques (DB, TR, S), no significant elongation was detected; all techniques achieved a sufficient posterior laxity restoration. Significant elongation in the DB and TR group was detected compared with the native PCL (N). In contrast, screw fixation did not lead to significant elongation. The stiffness, yield load, and load to failure force did not differ significantly between the techniques. None of the techniques reached the same level of yield load and load to failure force as the intact state.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic suspension button techniques sufficiently restore the posterior laxity and gain a comparable construct strength as an open antegrade screw fixation.
Solution procedures for block selection and sequencing in flat-bedded potash underground mines
Authors: Seifi Cinna , Schulze Marco , Zimmermann Jürgen
Published: March 2021

Phosphates, and especially potash, play an essential role in the increase in crop yields. Potash is mined in Germany in underground mines using a conventional drill-and-blast technique. The most commercially valuable mineral contained in potash is the potassium chloride that is separated from the potash in aboveground processing plants. The processing plants perform economically best if the amount of potassium contained in the output is equal to a specific value, the so-called optimal operating point. Therefore, quality-oriented extraction plays a decisive role in reducing processing costs. In this paper, we mathematically formulate a block selection and sequencing problem with a quality-oriented objective function that aims at an even extraction of potash regarding the potassium content. We, thereby, have to observe some precedence relations, maximum and minimum limits of the output, and a quality tolerance range within a given planning horizon. We model the problem as a mixed-integer nonlinear program which is then linearized. We show that our problem is $${\mathcal {NP}}$$
NP
-hard in the strong sense with the result that a MILP-solver cannot find feasible solutions for the most challenging problem instances at hand. Accordingly, we develop a problem-specific constructive heuristic that finds feasible solutions for each of our test instances. A comprehensive experimental performance analysis shows that a sophisticated combination of the proposed heuristic with the mathematical program improves the feasible solutions achieved by the heuristic, on average, by $$92.5\%$$

92.5
%

.
Relationship Between Bud Cold Hardiness and Budbreak in Two Vitis vinifera L Cultivars, Chardonnay and Thompson Seedless
Authors: Pérez Francisco J. , Rubio Sebastián
Published: March 2021

The lack of winter cold is a severe limitation for the cultivation of grapevines (Vitis vinifera L) in areas with warm winter climates. This phenomenon is currently becoming quite important due to global warming, which will increase winter temperatures in many temperate regions of the planet where grapevines are cultivated. Although various physical and chemical stimuli have been used to address the lack of winter cold in grapevine cultivation, quantitative studies on its effects on different cultivars are limited. Here, the effects of (a) low temperatures during endodormancy (ED), (b) temperature increases during eco-dormancy (ECD) and (c) the effects of dormancy-breaking compounds such as hydrogen cyanamide (HC) and sodium azide (AZ) on the budburst of an early budbreak cultivar, Chardonnay, and an late budbreak cultivar, Thompson seedless, were assessed. The results were analysed by the Kaplan–Meier method, and the log-rank test was used to establish statistical significance between the control and treatments. In general, Chardonnay grapevines were more sensitive than Thompson seedless grapevines to all budbreak stimuli, and a temperature increase during ECD was the stimulus that had the greatest effect on the budbreak in both cultivars. Exposure to cold temperatures during ED increased the cold hardiness and improved the budbreak in both cultivars. Based on the results, a relationship between the degree of bud cold hardiness and budbreak potential is suggested, and it is proposed that the greater the cold hardiness achieved by the buds, the better their subsequent budbreak will be.