bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of nine microRNAs as potential biomarkers for lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ren Zhi‐Peng , Hou Xiao‐Bin , Tian Xiao‐Dong , Guo Jun‐Tang , Zhang Lian‐Bin , Xue Zhi‐Qiang , Deng Jian‐Qing , Zhang Shao‐Wei , Pan Jun‐Yi , Chu Xiang‐Yang
Published: December 2018

Lung cancer is a leading global cause of cancer‐related death, and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) accounts for ~ 50% of lung cancer. Here, we screened for novel and specific biomarkers of LUAD by searching for differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) and microRNAs (DEmiRNAs) in LUAD patient expression data within The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The identified optimal diagnostic miRNA biomarkers were used to establish classification models (including support vector machine, decision tree, and random forest) to distinguish between LUAD and adjacent tissues. We then predicted the targets of identified optimal diagnostic miRNA biomarkers, functionally annotated these target genes, and performed receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of the respective DEmiRNA biomarkers, their target DEmRNAs, and combinations of DEmiRNA biomarkers. We validated the expression of selected DEmiRNA biomarkers by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR). In all, we identified a total of 13 DEmiRNAs, 2301 DEmRNAs and 232 DEmiRNA–target DEmRNA pairs between LUAD and adjacent tissues and selected nine DEmiRNAs (hsa‐mir‐486‐1, hsa‐mir‐486‐2, hsa‐mir‐153, hsa‐mir‐210, hsa‐mir‐9‐1, hsa‐mir‐9‐2, hsa‐mir‐9‐3, hsa‐mir‐577, and hsa‐mir‐4732) as optimal LUAD‐specific biomarkers with great diagnostic value. The predicted targets of these nine DEmiRNAs were significantly enriched in transcriptional misregulation in cancer and central carbon metabolism. Our qRT‐PCR results were generally consistent with our integrated analysis. In summary, our study identified nine DEmiRNAs that may serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers of LUAD. Functional annotation of their target DEmRNAs may provide information on their roles in LUAD.
Improved Electrical Contact Properties of MoS2‐Graphene Lateral Heterostructure
Authors: Hong Woonggi , Shim Gi Woong , Yang Sang Yoon , Jung Dae Yool , Choi Sung‐Yool
Published: December 2018

2D materials have been extensively investigated in view of their excellent electrical/optical properties, with particular attention directed at the fabrication of vertical or lateral heterostructures. Although such heterostructures exhibit unexpected or enhanced properties compared to those of singly used 2D materials, their fabrication is challenged by the difficulty of realizing spatial control and large area integration. Herein, MoS2 is grown on patterned graphene at variable temperatures, combining the concept of lateral heterostructure with chemical vapor deposition to realize large area growth with precise spatial control, and probe the spatial distribution of graphene and MoS2 by a number of instrumental techniques. The prepared MoS2‐graphene lateral heterostructure is employed to construct field effect transistors with graphene as the source/drain and MoS2 as the channel, and the performance of these transistors (on/off ratio ≈109, maximum field effect mobility = 8.5 cm2 V−1 s−1) is shown to exceed that of their MoS2‐only counterparts.
A framework for understanding quality of life domains in individuals with the CDKL5 deficiency disorder
Authors: Tangarorang Jodilee , Leonard Helen , Epstein Amy , Downs Jenny
Published: December 2018

The CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) is a rare condition caused by spontaneous mutations on the cyclin‐dependent kinase‐like 5 (CDKL5) gene. It is a severe and complex disability that markedly affects the individual's health and wellbeing. This study aimed to identify the quality of life (QOL) domains important for individuals with CDD. Twenty‐five parents of individuals registered in the International CDKL5 Disorder Database participated in semi‐structured telephone interviews to explore areas that supported or challenged their child's QOL. Rett syndrome (RTT) is another severe genetically‐caused neurodevelopmental disorder but is generally less severe than CDD. Qualitative data were analysed using directed content analysis, based on previously identified QOL domains for RTT that related to health and wellbeing, daily activities and community immersion and services. Each of the domains identified for RTT was represented in the CDD dataset overall and when the dataset was divided into three age groups: 3–5 years old; 6–18 years old; and older than 18 years. This is the first study to conceptualise factors important for individuals with CDD. Findings from this study will guide health professionals and other service providers who support individuals with CDD and will offer insight into choosing appropriate QOL instruments when measuring outcomes for this group.
Chemiluminescent Probe for the In Vitro and In Vivo Imaging of Cancers Over‐Expressing NQO1
Authors: Son Subin , Won Miae , Green Ori , Hananya Nir , Sharma Amit , Jeon Yukyoung , Kwak Jong Hwan , Sessler Jonathan L. , Shabat Doron , Kim Jong Seung
Published: December 2018

Activatable (turn‐on) probes that permit the rapid, sensitive, selective, and accurate identification of cancer‐associated biomarkers can help drive advances in cancer research. Herein, a NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase‐1 (NQO1)‐specific chemiluminescent probe 1 is reported that allows the differentiation between cancer subtypes. Probe 1 incorporates an NQO1‐specific trimethyl‐locked quinone trigger moiety covalently tethered to a phenoxy‐dioxetane moiety through a para‐aminobenzyl alcohol linker. Bio‐reduction of the quinone to the corresponding hydroquinone results in a chemiluminescent signal. As inferred from a combination of in vitro cell culture analyses and in vivo mice studies, the probe is safe, cell permeable, and capable of producing a “turn‐on” luminescence response in an NQO1‐positive A549 lung cancer model. On this basis, probe 1 can be used to identify cancerous cells and tissues characterized by elevated NQO1 levels.
Epoxy coating with self‐healing capability based on a 2‐mercaptobenzothiazole‐loaded CeO2nanocontainer
Authors: Hosseini Mir Ghasem , Aboutalebi Khadijeh
Published: December 2018

In this study, we demonstrated a facile approach for the synthesis of nanocontainers using the encapsulation of a 2‐mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT) inhibitor; these nanocontainers were capable of responsively releasing a corrosion inhibitor and of self‐healing performances. The anticorrosive performance of the CeO2nanocontainers was investigated with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurement in a saline electrolyte via the incorporation of different weight percentages (0.5, 1, and 2 wt %) of synthesized nanocontainer in epoxy (EP) resin. The EIS results show that the loading of 1 wt % CeO2nanocontainer containing MBT inhibitor in the epoxy (EP) coating [EP/NC MBT–CeO2(1%)] provided the highestRcoat, the lowest constant phase element of coating, and the optimum release of MBT at different operating pHs. The highest coating resistanceRcoatvalues of this coating (7.81 × 107Ω cm2) were about 12 and 8573 times greater than those considered for EP–CeO2and EP coatings, respectively. Different releases of the MBT inhibitor were detected at various pHs. We found that the coating operating in acidic media exhibited a better self‐healing performance. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 47297.
Bio‐based blends from poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) and natural rubber for packaging applications
Authors: Zhao Xiaoying , Venoor Varun , Koelling Kurt , Cornish Katrina , Vodovotz Yael
Published: December 2018

Poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) is a promising bioplastic but has limited packaging applications due to its brittleness and poor processability. Incorporation of highly viscous high‐molecular‐weight natural rubber (HMW‐NR, gel extracted from NR) into PHBV can improve these properties. HMW‐NR is not commercially available, impeding commercialization of the PHBV/rubber blends. Therefore, an organic peroxide was used to selectively crosslink NR to increase its viscosity during its melt blending with PHBV. The PHBV/NR blends were fabricated through a two‐step extrusion process using a twin‐screw extruder. The blends contained two phases with crosslinked rubber being dispersed in PHBV, and had clear rubber loading‐dependent differences in performance. The thermal stability and melt strength of the blends were enhanced over pristine PHBV, indicating improved processability. The flexibility and toughness of the blends were improved by 59 and 20%, respectively, compared with pristine PHBV, and were comparable to commercial petroleum‐based plastics. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 47334.
Plastic scintillators with efficient light output and pulse shape discrimination produced via photoinitiated polymerization
Authors: Lim Allison , Mahl Adam , Latta Joseph , Yemam Henok A. , Greife Uwe , Sellinger Alan
Published: December 2018

Poly(vinyl toluene) (PVT) overdoped with 2,5‐diphenyloxazole and using 1,4‐bis(5‐phenyloxazol‐2‐yl)benzene as a fluorescent secondary dopant can be used to detect and differentiate neutron and gamma radiation via scintillation. The low cost of PVT makes these plastic scintillators attractive for both portable and larger sized first line detection of special nuclear materials. Current fabrication methods rely on thermally initiated radical polymerization that generally requires an approximately 5‐day heating process in order to produce high quality scintillators. In this work, we report a proof‐of‐concept photopolymerization process to prepare plastic scintillators up to 20 g in size in 1 day. These plastic scintillators were comparable to standard thermally polymerized samples in terms of their physical properties and response to various radiation sources. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47381.
Size‐structured habitat selection by arapaima in floodplain lakes of the Lower Amazon
Authors: Richard Jordan C. , Castello Leandro , Gurdak Daniel J. , Peoples Brandon K. , Angermeier Paul L.
Published: December 2018

Human modification of floodplain ecosystems is widespread and a major threat to fish populations, particularly in the tropics where fish diversity and rates of floodplain degradation are high. Identifying measures to minimize the susceptibility of floodplain fishes to habitat modification requires understanding dry‐season lake habitat selection for species of conservation concern.

This study examined the effects of environmental factors on dry‐season floodplain lake habitat selection by arapaima (Arapaima spp.) and determined the extent to which they differed across three size classes. In floodplain lakes of the lower Amazon River, variables were measured at locations representing habitat availability and compared with measurements taken where arapaima were observed during surface breathing. Regression models were used to account for between‐lake variation in the presence of arapaima owing to nearby fishing communities. The probability of arapaima presence at each sample location was modelled based on the variables measured.

The results indicated that arapaima expressed distinct habitat selection patterns, which differed significantly across size classes. The general pattern observed was that all arapaima were more likely to be found in deeper, more turbid, and higher conductivity locations, whereas smaller arapaima were more likely to remain near dense beds of floating macrophytes. The probability of arapaima presence differed among fishing community territories, reflecting differences in management schemes.

Deeper, macrophyte‐rich sections of floodplain lakes appear to provide key habitats for arapaima and deserve consideration for becoming priority targets for conservation of the rich diversity of fish species in these systems.
A spatially explicit approach to prioritize protection areas for endangered freshwater mussels
Authors: Dobler Andreas H. , Geist Juergen , Stoeckl Katharina , Inoue Kentaro
Published: December 2018

In spite of their conservation importance, only a fraction of lakes and streams globally – including their catchments – are currently covered by conservation areas. To identify conservation gaps, assessing the spatial distribution of biodiversity in relation to conservation areas is a promising approach. A gap‐analysis approach was used to evaluate the protection status of the habitats of two endangered freshwater mussel species,Margaritifera margaritifera(Linnaeus, 1758) andUnio crassus(Philipsson, 1788), in the Federal State of Bavaria, Germany.

First, ecological niche models (ENMs) were developed for both mussel species based on presence‐only data in order to identify suitable habitats. Second, binary maps of suitable and unsuitable habitats for the species were used to compare different categories of currently protected areas in a gap analysis.

The ENMs forM. margaritiferarevealed a spatially restricted distribution with good model performance, whereas the spatial distribution ofU. crassuswas wider and the model performance was weaker. ForM. margaritifera, a higher percentage of suitable habitat is already under some sort of protection, whereas forU. crassusonly half of the suitable habitats are under protection.

The results suggest that suitable habitats of both species are not sufficiently protected. More effective conservation ofM. margaritiferaandU. crassusrequires separate management: increasing the respective protection categories of already protected habitats ofM. margaritiferaand incorporating an increased area of suitable habitats under legal protection forU. crassus.
Shifting Preferences for Primate Faces in Neurotypical Infants and Infants Later Diagnosed With ASD
Authors: Yamashiro Amy , Sorcinelli Andrea , Rahman Tazmin , Elbogen Rebecca , Curtin Suzanne , Vouloumanos Athena
Published: December 2018

Infants look at others' faces to gather social information. Newborns look equally at human and monkey faces but prefer human faces by 1 month, helping them learn to communicate and interact with others. Infants later diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) look at human faces less than neurotypical infants, which may underlie some deficits in social‐communication later in life. Here, we asked whether infants later diagnosed with ASD differ in their preferences for both human and nonhuman primate faces compared to neurotypical infants over their first 2 years of life. We compare infants' relative looking times to human or monkey faces paired with nonface controls (Experiment 1) and infants' total looking times to pairs of human and monkey faces (Experiment 2). Across two experiments, we find that between 6 and 18 months, infants later diagnosed with ASD show a greater downturn (decrease after an initial increase) in looking at both primate faces than neurotypical infants. A decrease in attention to primate faces may partly underlie the social‐communicative difficulties in children with ASD and could reveal how early perceptual experiences with faces affect development. Autism Res 2019, 12: 249–262 © 2018 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

Looking at faces helps infants learn to interact with others. Infants look equally at human and monkey faces at birth but prefer human faces by 1 month. Infants later diagnosed with ASD who show deficits in social‐communication look at human faces less than neurotypical infants. We find that a downturn (decline after an initial increase) in attention to both human and monkey faces between 6 and 18 months may partly underlie the social‐communicative difficulties in children with ASD.
Influence of methane emissions on the GHG emissions of fossil fuels
Authors: Pieprzyk Björn , Hilje Paula Rojas
Published: December 2018

Our study examines the effects of methane emissions on the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of crude oil and natural gas between 2015 and 2040. Our scenario calculations, derived from global methane budgets and shale analyses, provided a range of 22–59 million tons of global methane emissions from the oil sector in 2015. By 2040, the methane emissions of crude oil will increase by between 18% and 59%. For the global warming potential over 100 years (GWP100), our analysis shows venting, flaring, and fugitive (VFF) emissions of global diesel and gasoline combined of between 8.78 and 14.80 g CO2eq MJ−1 in 2015 and 8.88 to 16.34 g CO2eq MJ−1 by 2040. Our minimum average values for VVF emissions of fossil fuels are thus twice as high as those used in the calculations for the fossil reference value used in the Fuel Quality Directive of the European Union (EU‐FQD). The VVF emissions from diesel and gasoline produced from shale oil will reach up to 26.84 g CO2eq MJ−1 and from shale natural gas liquids (NGL) up to 31.84 g CO2eq MJ−1. Our maximum marginal values for the VVF emissions of fossil fuels are thus up to nine times higher than the VVF value for the EU‐FQD. Based on our calculations, the EU‐FQD reference value for conventional fossil diesel will increase from 95 g MJ−1 to between 99.16 and 105.06 g MJ−1 for the GWP100 and between 109.80 and 124.70 g MJ−1 for the global warming potential over 20 years (GWP20). Our results thus show that the previous reference values for fossil fuels are clearly too low because their assumptions for methane emissions are far too low. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Prevalence rates of spina bifida in Alberta, Canada: 2001–2015. Can we achieve more prevention?
Authors: Lowry R. Brian , Bedard Tanya , MacFarlane Amanda J. , Crawford Susan , Sibbald Barbara , Agborsangaya B. Calypse
Published: December 2018

Background

Despite a substantial prevention of neural tube defects with mandatory folic acid (FA) fortification, a significant number of cases still exist in Alberta, Canada, particularly spina bifida (SB). The purpose of this study was to review cases with SB to provide a possible explanation as to why SB is still prevalent in Alberta.

Methods

Cases with SB born between 2001 and 2015, ascertained by the Alberta Congenital Anomalies Surveillance System, were reviewed. Cases were classified as lipomeningomyelocele, syndrome/recognized condition, chromosome, associated multiple congenital anomalies, and isolated. The notice of birth forms were reviewed to determine FA supplement use before and/or during pregnancy. Socioeconomic status (SES) was also examined.

Results

The majority of cases were isolated (58%). The total prevalence of SB for 2001–2015 was 0.37/1,000 births, with isolated SB being 0.21/1,000 births. Urinary and congenital heart defects were the most frequently identified associated anomalies. FA supplementation could not be determined for 69% of our cases because of a lack of completeness of the notice of birth forms. There was no significant difference regarding SES between mothers of cases and all mothers in Alberta.

Conclusions

It is important to examine cases with isolated SB to determine why mandatory FA fortification has not completely prevented SB and to identify which cases are not folate‐responsive. A more concerted effort of public health education and promotion with the identification of women with suboptimal folate status and a better understanding of the role of other micronutrients is necessary.
Oxidative stress and inflammation, two features associated with a high percentage body fat, and that may lead to diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Darroudi Susan , Fereydouni Narges , Tayefi Maryam , Ahmadnezhad Mahsa , Zamani Parvin , Tayefi Batool , Kharazmi Jasmin , Tavalaie Shima , Heidari‐Bakavoli Alireza , Azarpajouh Mahmoud R. , Ferns Gordon A. , Mohammadpour Amir H. , Esmaily Habibollah , Ghayour‐Mobarhan Majid
Published: December 2018

Obesity is an important feature of the metabolic syndrome and is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between body fat percentage and an imbalance of the prooxidant/antioxidant balance (PAB), serum superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and inflammation (serum hs‐CRP) and increase risk of metabolic syndrome and diabetes mellitus. In this study, 9154 individuals were recruited as part of the Mashhad Stroke and Heart Association Disorder (MASHAD) study. Subjects were categorized into two groups according to body fat percentage as defined >25% in male and > 30% in female, according to gender. Biochemical factors, including serum PAB, SOD1, and hs‐CRP were measured in all subjects. SPSS version 18 was used for statistical analyses for all. GraphPad Prism 6 for figures was used. Of total number of subjects (9154), 6748 (73.7%) were found to have a high body fat (BF) percentage. Serum hs‐CRP and PAB were significantly higher in individuals with a high BF percentage (P < 0.05) but SOD1 was not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). BF percentage, serum PAB and serum hs‐CRP were significantly higher in individuals with metabolic syndrome and diabetes versus those without metabolic syndrome and diabetes mellitus (P < 0.05), however serum SOD1 was significantly lower in individuals with metabolic syndrome (P < 0.005). Oxidative stress and inflammation are two factors that may link the presence of high BF percentage with the development of metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. © 2018 BioFactors, 45(1):35–42, 2019
Embedding biodiversity and ecosystem services in corporate sustainability: A strategy to enable Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Macellari Margherita , Gusmerotti Natalia Marzia , Frey Marco , Testa Francesco
Published: December 2018

The Sustainable Development Goals are a powerful lever to mainstream sustainability priorities in business' strategies and operations. At the same time, a new corporate sustainability based on a strategic understanding and management of biodiversity and ecosystem services is key to enact the new agenda for development. With the aim to better understand how businesses can operationalize the Agenda 2030, authors adopt a transdisciplinary approach and carry out an analysis of selected Italian business practices focused on biodiversity and ecosystem services management. Through a content analysis method and with the contribution of practitioners and experts, the main impacts of the practices have then been reconciled with the new framework for development. Finally, from primary data collected and further supported by semistructured interviews with company representatives (sustainability and environmental departments), authors propose a conceptual model that connects strategic biodiversity and ecosystem services management, its drivers and barriers, with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Sustainability value creation in frugal contexts to foster Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Arnold Marlen Gabriele
Published: December 2018

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) stress unsolved global topics such as mitigating poverty and exclusion. Inclusive approaches often highlight frugal innovations for the Base of the Pyramid and low income markets, mainly offered by private sector. In the contexts of sustainability, the private sector is both, a major driver of exclusionary processes as well as for enforcing new inclusive solutions enhancing quality of life, participation, and incomes. So it is of interest if and how the business sector contributes to enforcing SDGs. Therefore, 50 frugal innovations were analyzed for their contribution to the SDGs and their sustainability value creation patterns by content analysis. Main insights stress that social engagement is mainly value driven by small and medium enterprises and non‐governmental organizations. Institutional voids can function as drivers for multinational corporations to develop new and inclusive business models. An enforcement of the SDGs is primarily given on indirect and low level.
Effect of chemotherapy and aromatase inhibitors in the adjuvant treatment of breast cancer on glucose and insulin metabolism—A systematic review
Authors: Buch Kristian , Gunmalm Victoria , Andersson Michael , Schwarz Peter , Brøns Charlotte
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer among women worldwide. With increasing survival rates, focus has expanded to long‐term adverse effects of adjuvant chemotherapy and/or aromatase inhibitors. Weight gain during chemotherapy has been well documented, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. A change in glucose and insulin metabolism is a possible consequence.

Methods

We searched PubMed on the 4th of May 2018, and found eight articles that compared measurements of glucose and insulin before and after chemotherapy and/or aromatase inhibitors in woman with BC.

Results

A general trend of increased glucose and insulin is seen and likely to be caused by weight gain and/or changes in body composition as a consequence of adjuvant treatment of BC.

Discussion

Due to methodological limitations including short follow‐up times and small sample sizes, further studies are required to better describe metabolic consequences of adjuvant chemotherapy and/or aromatase inhibitors. Future studies could help identify patients in high‐risk of developing cardiometabolic disease after BC treatment.
Pharmacovigilance evaluation of the relationship between impaired glucose metabolism and BCR‐ABL inhibitor use by using an adverse drug event reporting database
Authors: Okada Naoto , Niimura Takahiro , Zamami Yoshito , Hamano Hirofumi , Ishida Shunsuke , Goda Mitsuhiro , Takechi Kenshi , Chuma Masayuki , Imanishi Masaki , Ishizawa Keisuke
Published: December 2018

Breakpoint cluster region‐Abelson murine leukemia (BCR‐ABL) inhibitors markedly improve the prognosis of chronic myeloid leukemia. However, high treatment adherence is necessary for successful treatment with BCR‐ABL inhibitors. Therefore, an adequate understanding of the adverse event profiles of BCR‐ABL inhibitors is essential. Although many adverse events are observed in trials, an accurate identification of adverse events based only on clinical trial results is difficult because of strict entry criteria or limited follow‐up durations. In particular, BCR‐ABL inhibitor‐induced impaired glucose metabolism remains controversial. Pharmacovigilance evaluations using spontaneous reporting systems are useful for analyzing drug‐related adverse events in clinical settings. Therefore, we conducted signal detection analyses for BCR‐ABL inhibitor‐induced impaired glucose metabolism by using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) and Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report (JADER) database. Signals for an increased reporting rate of impaired glucose metabolism were detected only for nilotinib use, whereas these signals were not detected for other BCR‐ABL inhibitors. Subgroup analyses showed a clearly increased nilotinib‐associated reporting rate of impaired glucose metabolism in male and younger patients. Although FAERS‐ and JADER‐based signal detection analyses cannot determine causality perfectly, our study suggests the effects on glucose metabolism are different between BCR‐ABL inhibitors and provides useful information for the selection of appropriate BCR‐ABL inhibitors.
Were student‐athlete's due process rights violated?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: December 2018

Wright State University, the plaintiff, a member of the tennis team, was formally accused in February 2016 by two teammates of hazing and other violations of the student conduct code.
Lead your department to success by investing in people
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: December 2018

When Chris King looks back over his 23‐year career in college athletics, he recalls a particularly challenging time. It was the 2014–15 academic year, when the University of Texas Pan American and the University of Texas at Brownsville both closed and transitioned to form a new institution, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
A Two‐Year Bio‐Agronomic and Chemotaxonomic Evaluation of Wild Sicilian Myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) Berries and Leaves
Authors: Siracusa Laura , Napoli Edoardo , Tuttolomondo Teresa , Licata Mario , La Bella Salvatore , Gennaro Maria Cristina , Leto Claudio , Sarno Mauro , Sperlinga Elisa , Ruberto Giuseppe
Published: December 2018

A collection of nine Myrtus communis samples from different localities of Sicily was evaluated. Morphological traits and production characteristics have been chosen as parameters to arrange the samples into homogeneous groups and to identify the best biotypes for possible future agro‐industrial exploitation. The plant material has been subjected to taxonomic characterization from biometric and phytochemical perspectives. Myrtle berries and leaves have been analyzed for their content in metabolites, applying a cascade extraction protocol for M. communis leaves and a single hydroalcoholic extraction for berries, whereas hydrodistillation procedures have been applied to obtain the essential oils from berries and leaves. The analyses of non‐volatile components were carried out by LC‐UV‐DAD‐ESI‐MS. All the extracts were characterized by the presence of numerous polyphenols, namely highly hydroxylated flavonols such as quercetin and myricetin; and ellagic acid detected in all samples. In addition, myrtle berries contained nine different anthocyanins, namely delphinidin, petunidin, cyanidin and malvidin derivatives. The essential oils (EOs) were analyzed by a combination of GC‐FID and GC/MS. A total of 33 and 34 components were fully characterized with the predominance of α‐pinene, myrtenyl acetate, linalool, 1,8‐cineole and linalyl acetate. All phytochemical profiles were subjected to cluster analyses, which allowed subdividing the myrtle samples in different chemical groups.
Recent Advances on Self‐Healing Materials and Batteries
Authors: Wang Hua , Wang Panpan , Feng Yuping , Liu Jie , Wang Jiaqi , Hu Mengmeng , Wei Jun , Huang Yan
Published: December 2018

Self‐healing is a concept to imitate the healing of biological damage and is considered to be an important property of next‐generation smart materials. With a huge breakthrough of self‐healing materials in recent years, many devices with integrated self‐healing ability are promising due to their intelligence and durability. Among them, self‐healing batteries have attracted ever‐growing interest due to their remarkable electrochemical performance and broad application prospects. In this article, the state‐of‐the‐art progress in self‐healing materials and batteries are summarized. First, this review introduces the main self‐healing mechanisms and corresponding materials. Second, various self‐healing batteries including micro and macro self‐healing, are discussed, about their self‐healing principles, fabrication techniques, and self‐healing performances. Finally, existing challenges and future opportunities are discussed in this thriving field.
Fe@Fe2P Core‐Shell Nanorods Encapsulated in Nitrogen Doped Carbon Nanotubes as Robust and Stable Electrocatalyst Toward Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Hu Hao , Zhang Quan , Luo Fang , Guo Long , Qu Konggang , Yang Zehui , Xiao Shenglin , Xu Zhikun , Cai Weiwei , Cheng Hansong
Published: December 2018

Here, we report an efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalyst (Fe@Fe2P/NCNT) fabricated from the phosphorization of partially oxidized iron nanorod encapsulated in nitrogen doped carbon nanotubes (Fe@Fe2O3/NCNT) synthesized from iron trichloride and melamine, which only requires ∼0 mV and 78.2 mV overpotentials to achieve cathodic current densities of 1 mA cm−2 and 10 mA cm−2 with Tafel slope of 52.2 mV dec−1 in acidic media, which exhibits higher HER electrocatalytic activity compared to Fe/NCNT requiring a overpotential of 118.5 mV to attain 10 mA cm−2 with Tafel slope of 92.3 mV dec−1. Due to the phosphorization process, additional active sites coming from Fe2P boost the electrocatalytic activity of Fe@Fe2P/NCNT resulting in decrement in overpotentials by 40.3 mV and 186 mV for 10 mA cm−2 and 50 mA cm−2 compared to Fe/NCNT electrocatalyst, respectively. Meanwhile, Fe@Fe2P/NCNT exhibits ignorable degradation in HER activity after 6000 potential cycles suggesting that the Fe@Fe2P/NCNT with superior HER activity and stability could potentially replace the benchmark Pt/C (overpotential@10 mA cm−2: 31 mV) as efficient HER electrocatalyst for water splitting.
Internal standard arithmetic implemented as relative concentration/relative calibration
Authors: Kalambet Yuri , Kozmin Yuri
Published: December 2018

The problems related to the internal standard method in chromatography implemented using the Response ratio/Concentrations ratio graph are discussed. The examples provided demonstrate that this method compensates for detector sensitivity variations but may not compensate for the variations in mass of the injected sample if some of calibrations are not linear through origin (directly proportional). Implementation of an alternative internal standard arithmetic––relative concentration/calibration––is described. Relative concentration is based on external standard or relative calibration dependencies. Relative calibration assumes that the calibration function of the internal standard component is accurately measured in advance. Relative concentration/calibration compensates for injected mass variations, can be applied in the case of nonlinear calibration dependencies, and allows a wide range of internal standard component concentrations; however, it does not necessarily compensate for detector response variations. It is shown that the traditional and proposed approaches provide identical predictions of concentration in the case when all calibrations are directly proportional.
Testing a biobehavioral model of fatigue before adjuvant therapy in women with breast cancer
Authors: Bower Julienne E. , Asher Arash , Garet Deborah , Petersen Laura , Ganz Patricia A. , Irwin Michael R. , Cole Steve W. , Hurvitz Sara A. , Crespi Catherine M.
Published: December 2018

Background

Fatigue is one of the most common and disabling side effects of cancer and its treatment. Although research typically has focused on fatigue that occurs during and after treatment, patients may experience fatigue even before treatment onset. The current study was designed to identify biobehavioral risk factors associated with fatigue before adjuvant therapy in women with early‐stage breast cancer.

Methods

Patients with stage 0 to stage IIIA breast cancer (270 women) were recruited before the onset of adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and/or endocrine therapy. Host factors that may influence fatigue were identified from an empirically based, biobehavioral model and assessed using self‐report questionnaires, medical record review, and blood collection (for genetic data). Fatigue was assessed by questionnaire. Linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the association between host factors and dimensions of fatigue, with general fatigue as the primary dimension of interest.

Results

Fatigue was elevated at the pretreatment assessment compared with published controls. Bivariate analyses identified demographic, cancer‐related, and biobehavioral correlates of fatigue. In the multivariable model, predictors of general fatigue included younger age, lower educational level, lower cancer stage, and history of childhood maltreatment (all P values <.05), with the full model accounting for approximately 18.4% of the variance in fatigue. Secondary analyses identified common and specific predictors of emotional, mental, and physical dimensions of fatigue.

Conclusions

Among women who have not yet initiated treatment of breast cancer, demographic and psychosocial factors are associated with elevated fatigue and could be used to identify at‐risk patients for early intervention.
Mismatch repair deficiency identifies patients with high‐intermediate–risk (HIR) endometrioid endometrial cancer at the highest risk of recurrence: A prognostic biomarker
Authors: Backes Floor J. , Haag Jennifer , Cosgrove Casey M. , Suarez Adrian , Cohn David E. , Goodfellow Paul J.
Published: December 2018

Background

The objective of this study was to assess the correlation between mismatch repair (MMR) status, disease recurrence patterns, and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) in patients with high‐intermediate–risk (HIR) endometrioid endometrial cancer (EEC).

Methods

A single‐institution chart review for consecutive patients who were diagnosed with ECC between 2007 and 2016 was undertaken. Tumor MMR status was determined for all patients based on reported findings for mutL homolog 1 (MLH1), postmeiotic segregation (PMS2), mutS homolog 2 (MSH2), and MSH6 immunohistochemistry; and defective MMR (dMMR) status was defined as the lack of expression of at least 1 of these proteins. Patients were classified with HIR EEC according to criteria used for Gynecologic Oncology Group study 249. The factors associated with recurrence were assessed by logistic regression. RFS and associated factors were assessed by Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional‐hazards models.

Results

In total, 197 patients who had HIR EEC (64 with dMMR and 133 with intact MMR [iMMR]) were identified, of whom 32 (16.2%) developed recurrent disease. The median follow‐up was 54 months. The recurrence rate for women who had dMMR was 28% compared with 10.5% for those who had iMMR (P = .002), independent of the type of adjuvant therapy they received. The increase in distant recurrences among patients who had dMMR was even more pronounced (14.1% vs 3%; P = .003). The estimated 5‐year RFS was 66% for women who had dMMR compared with 89% for those who had iMMR (P = .001). Excluding isolated vaginal recurrences, the difference in 5‐year RFS was 73.5% versus 95%, respectively (P = .0004).

Conclusions

Patients who had HIR EEC with dMMR had increased rates of recurrence and decreased RFS compared with those who had HIR EEC with iMMR, despite the receipt of similar adjuvant treatment. The current findings highlight the need for alternative treatment options and the importance of MMR status as a biomarker for patients with HIR EEC.
Benign call rate and molecular test result distribution of ThyroSeq v3
Authors: Ohori N. Paul , Landau Michael S. , Carty Sally E. , Yip Linwah , LeBeau Shane O. , Manroa Pooja , Seethala Raja R. , Schoedel Karen E. , Nikiforova Marina N. , Nikiforov Yuri E.
Published: December 2018

Background

The benign call rate (BCR) is the percentage of cytomorphologically indeterminate cases with subsequent benign or negative molecular results. For rule‐out tests, the BCR is an important parameter because these molecular “negative” cases may be managed similarly to those with a benign cytology diagnosis. Although earlier versions of ThyroSeq molecular tests were less effective in excluding malignancy, the extensively expanded v3 version with a high negative predictive value is considered to represent a rule‐out test. In the current study, the authors evaluated the BCR and the overall molecular result distribution of ThyroSeq v3.

Methods

All indeterminate thyroid fine‐needle aspiration cases (except those deemed suspicious for malignancy) with available ThyroSeq v3 results from November 2017 to June 2018 were retrieved from the cytopathology files. Because the ThyroSeq v3 genomic classifier was designed for thyroid follicular‐derived lesions, cases in which parathyroid and medullary carcinoma molecular markers were detected and those that were inadequate or limited for molecular testing were excluded from the study. For the remaining cases, the indeterminate diagnoses were correlated with molecular and histologic results.

Results

Among the 224 indeterminate cases (except those deemed suspicious for malignancy), the overall ThyroSeq v3 molecular test BCR was 74.1% (166 of 224 cases). The category of atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) had higher BCRs compared with the other indeterminate diagnostic categories. RAS mutations were the most common positive results.

Conclusions

The high BCR demonstrates that ThyroSeq v3 is potentially effective in sparing the large majority of indeterminate cases with “negative” results from surgery while offering risk assessment for the positive cases and guiding clinical management.
Metal‐Free Photoinduced Transformation of Aryl Halides and Diketones into Aryl Ketones
Authors: Yao Qiuli , Liu Wenbo , Liu Peng , Ren Linjing , Fang Xuehong , Li Chao‐Jun
Published: December 2018

The acylation of aryl halides to prepare aryl ketones without metal catalyst represents an important yet challenging topic towards more sustainable ketone synthesis. Herein, we describe a simple and efficient metal‐free protocol for the acylation of aryl halides with diketone under the irradiation of light utilizing N‐methylpiperidine as base under an air atmosphere. This reaction can tolerate a wide range of functional groups and the corresponding ketones can be obtained in modest to good yields.
Screening-level risk assessment of methylmercury for non-anadromous Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus)
Authors: Barst Benjamin D. , Drevnick Paul E. , Muir Derek C.G. , Gantner Nikolaus , Power Michael , Köck Günter , Chéhab Nathalie , Swanson Heidi , Rigét Frank , Basu Niladri
Published: December 2018

Non-anadromous forms of Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus), those that are restricted to lakes and rivers, typically have higher mercury (Hg) concentrations than anadromous forms, which migrate to and from the sea. Using tissue burden data from the literature and our own analyses, we performed a screening-level risk assessment of methylmercury (MeHg) for non-anadromous Arctic char. Our assessment included 1569 fish distributed across 83 sites. Site-specific mean total Hg concentrations in non-anadromous Arctic char muscle varied considerably from 0.01 to 1.13 µg/g wet weight, with 21% (17 of 83 sites) meeting or exceeding a threshold-effect level in fish of 0.33 µg/g wet weight, and 13% (11 of 83 sites) meeting or exceeding a threshold-effect level in fish of 0.5 µg/g wet weight. Of the sites in exceedance of the 0.33-µg/g threshold, 7 were located in Greenland and 10 in Canada (Labrador, Nunavut, and Yukon). All but one of these sites were located in interfrost or permafrost biomes. Maximum total Hg concentrations exceeded 0.33 µg/g wet weight at 53% of sites (40 of the 75 sites with available maximum Hg values), and exceeded 0.5 µg/g wet weight at 27% (20 of 75 sites). Collectively, these results indicate that certain populations of non-anadromous Arctic char located mainly in interfrost and permafrost regions may be at risk for MeHg toxicity. This approach provides a simple statistical assessment of MeHg risk to non-anadromous Arctic char, and does not indicate actual effects. We highlight the need for studies that evaluate the potential toxic effects of MeHg in non-anadromous Arctic char, as well as those that aid in the development of a MeHg toxic-effect threshold specific to this species of fish. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:489–502. © 2018 SETAC
Bioarchaeological evidence for adaptive plasticity and constraint: Exploring life‐history trade‐offs in the human past
Authors: Temple Daniel H.
Published: December 2018

The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease paradigm evaluates the consequences of early life stress on health at later stages of life. Interacting with this paradigm represents a profound opportunity to leverage the lifespan and contextual approaches to human skeletal remains adopted by bioarchaeological research. Teeth and bone provide evidence for stressors experienced early in life. These events represent evidence for adaptive plasticity as Individuals survive the events through reallocation of energy to essential physiological functions, which inhibits enamel and skeletal growth. Age‐at‐death, adult body size, chronic infection, or childhood mortality may be used as covariates to better understand the physiological constraints operating on individual bodies following survival of early life stress. Contextual evidence from cemeteries provides clues to the ecological and cultural contingencies that exacerbate or mitigate the expression of these trade‐offs. Future studies should incorporate newly derived methods that provide reproducible and precise ways to evaluate early life stress, while incorporating populations that are often neglected.
Photoreactions of Sc3N@Ih‐C80 and Lu3N@Ih‐C80 with disilirane: Isolation and characterization of labile 1,2‐adducts
Authors: Kako Masahiro , Ozeki Fumiaki , Kanzawa Shinji , Fukazawa Shinpei , Sato Kumiko , Yamada Michio , Maeda Yutaka , Furukawa Makoto , Akasaka Takeshi
Published: December 2018

The photolysis of Sc3N@Ih‐C80 with disilirane (1,2‐disilacyclopropane) afforded the corresponding 1,2‐ and 1,4‐adducts. The relatively unstable 1,2‐product was characterized using spectroscopic and electrochemical analyses, and theoretical calculations. The relative energies of the optimized structures are consistent with the experimentally observed isomerization of the 1,2‐adduct to the 1,4‐adduct. The electron‐donating effects of the silyl groups in these products were confirmed by comparing the redox potentials of the related Sc3N@Ih‐C80 derivatives. The relative stabilities and electronic properties of the 1,2‐ and 1,4‐adducts of Lu3N@Ih‐C80 show similar aspects to those obtained for the corresponding Sc3N@Ih‐C80 derivatives.
Aging‐Related Expression of Twinfilin‐1 Regulates Cholangiocyte Biological Response to Injury
Authors: Maroni Luca , Pinto Claudio , Giordano Debora Maria , Saccomanno Stefania , Banales Jesus M. , Spallacci Daniele , Albertini Maria Cristina , Orlando Fiorenza , Provinciali Mauro , Milkiewicz Malgorzata , Melum Espen , Labiano Ibone , Milkiewicz Piotr , Rychlicki Chiara , Trozzi Luciano , Scarpelli Marina , Benedetti Antonio , Svegliati Baroni Gianluca , Marzioni Marco
Published: December 2018

Disorders of the biliary tree develop and progress differently according to patient age. It is currently not known whether the aging process affects the response to injury of cholangiocytes. The aim of this study was to identify molecular pathways associated with cholangiocyte aging and to determine their effects in the biological response to injury of biliary cells. A panel of microRNAs (miRs) involved in aging processes was evaluated in cholangiocytes of young and old mice (2 months and 22 months of age, respectively) and subjected to a model of sclerosing cholangitis. Intracellular pathways that are common to elevated miRs were identified by in silico analysis. Cell proliferation and senescence were evaluated in Twinfilin‐1 (Twf1) knocked‐down cells. In vivo, senescence‐accelerated prone mice (Samp8, a model for accelerated aging), Twf1‐/‐
, or their respective controls were subjected to DDC (3,5‐diethoxycarbonyl‐1,4‐dihydrocollidine). Cholangiocytes from DDC‐treated mice showed up‐regulation of a panel of aging‐related miRs. Twf1 was identified by in silico analysis as a common target of the up‐regulated miRs. Twf1 expression was increased both in aged and diseased cholangiocytes, and in human cholangiopathies. Knock‐down of Twf1 in cholangiocytes reduced cell proliferation. Senescence and senescence‐associated secretory phenotype marker expression increased in Twf1 knocked‐down cholangiocytes following pro‐proliferative and pro‐senescent (10‐day lipopolysaccharide) stimulation. In vivo, Samp8 mice showed increased biliary proliferation, fibrosis, and Twf1 protein expression level, whereas Twf1‐/‐
had a tendency toward lower biliary proliferation and fibrosis following DDC administration compared with control animals. Conclusion: We identified Twf1 as an important mediator of both cholangiocyte adaptation to aging processes and response to injury. Our data suggest that disease and aging might share common intracellular pathways.