bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Generalization of Habituation: How Discrete Biological Systems Respond to Repetitive Stimuli
Authors: Bonzanni Mattia , Rouleau Nicolas , Levin Michael , Kaplan David Lee
Published: June 2019

Habituation, a form of non‐associative learning, isno longer studied exclusively within the fields of psychology and neuroscience. Indeed, the same stimulus–response pattern is observed at the molecular, cellular, and organismal scales and is not dependent upon the presence of neurons. Hence, a more inclusive theory is required to accommodate aneural forms of habituation. Here an abstraction of the habituation process that does not rely upon particular biological pathways or substrates is presented. Instead, five generalizable elements that define the habituation process are operationalized. The formulation can be applied to interrogate systems as they respond to several stimulation paradigms, providing new insights and supporting existing behavioral data. The model can be used to deduce the relative contribution of elements that contribute to the measurable output of the system. The results suggest that habituation serves as a general biological strategy that any system can implement to adaptively respond to harmless, repetitive stimuli.
Using kinetics and modeling to predict denitrification fluxes in elemental‐sulfur‐based biofilms
Authors: Wang Yue , Sabba Fabrizio , Bott Charles , Nerenberg Robert
Published: June 2019

Elemental sulfur (S0) can serve as an electron donor for water and wastewater denitrification, but few researchers have addressed the kinetics of S
0–based reduction of nitrate (NO
3
−), nitrite (NO
2
−), and nitrous oxide (N
2O). In addition, S
0‐based denitrifying biofilms are counter‐diffusional. This is because the electron donor (S
0) is supplied from the biofilm attachment surface while the acceptor, for example, NO
3
−, is supplied from the bulk liquid. No existing mathematical model for S
0‐based denitrification considers this behavior. In this study, batch tests were used to determine the kinetic parameters for the reduction of NO
3
−, NO
2
−, and N
2O. Additionally, a biofilm model was developed to explore the effects of counter‐diffusion on overall fluxes, that is, the mass of NO
3
− or NO
2
− removed per unit biofilm support area per unit time. The maximum specific substrate utilization rates () for NO
3
−, NO
2
−, and N
2O were 3.54, 1.98, and 6.28 g N g COD
−1·d
−1, respectively. The maximum specific growth rates () were 0.71, 1.21, and 1.67 d
−1 for NO
3
− to NO
2
−, NO
2
− to N
2O, and N
2O to N
2, respectively. Results suggest that the observed NO
2
− accumulation during S
0‐based denitrification results from a low for NO
2
− relative to that for NO
3
−. The high for N
2O, relative to that for NO
3
− and NO
2
−, suggest that little N
2O accumulation occurs during denitrification. A counter‐diffusional biofilm model was used to predict trends for NO
3
− fluxes, and confirmed NO
2
− accumulation in S
0‐based denitrification biofilms. It also explains the observed detrimental effects of biofilm thickness on denitrification fluxes. This study allows a more accurate prediction of NO
3
−, NO
2
−, and N
2O transformations in S
0‐based denitrification.
Synthesis and Biological Assay of Hybrids Between Epinastine and Salicylic Acid as Promising Nitric Oxide Production Inhibitors
Authors: Lee Ju Mi , Damodar Kongara , Lee Yeontaek , Lee Jae‐Yong , Jeon Sung Ho , Lee Jeong Tae
Published: June 2019

The first synthesis of novel hybrid compounds 3–6 from epinastine (1) and salicylic acid (2) has been achieved via amide bond using molecular hybridization approach and their in vitro inhibitory activity towards nitric oxide (NO) formation in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced RAW 264.7 macrophages as a sign of anti‐inflammatory activity has been evaluated. All the hybrid compounds synthesized 3–6 displayed better inhibitory effect against NO production than individual compounds, 1 and 2. Especially, directly conjugated hybrid compound 3 displayed concentration‐dependent strong inhibition of NO production with an IC50 value of 12.78 μM, which was significantly lower than the parent compounds 1 (IC50 > 100 μM) and 2 (IC50 > 100 μM). These preliminary results indicate that further studies are needed to be carried out to demonstrate the mechanism by which compound 3 exerts its inhibitory activity.
Self–other differences in change predictions
Authors: Lu Jingyi , Xie Xiaofei
Published: June 2019

Individuals live in a changing world in which they predict future events based on past trends. Every event changes between two extremes (e.g., increases and decreases, successes and failures, and peaks and bottoms). People will anticipate changes if they can see the correlation between two extremes. This study investigates whether predictions about changes differ when individuals make predictions about events regarding themselves and others. Based on construal level theory, we hypothesized and found that people who made predictions for others anticipated more changes between two extremes than those who made predictions for themselves. However, self–other differences had boundary conditions. These differences were found in past trends without reversals but not in those with reversals. These results provide novel insights into change predictions.
Upward intergenerational influences on parents' innovativeness and innovation adoption: A comparative study of single‐ and multiple‐child families
Authors: Liang Jianping , Jiang Hongyan , Cotte June
Published: June 2019

In the marketing and consumer behavior literature, there has been a growing attention on upward intergenerational influences, or reverse socialization, which is largely because of children's increasing influences on family decisions. This paper hypothesizes different patterns of upward intergenerational influences in single versus multiple‐child families, controlling for peer and spousal influences. We found that young adult single children had a direct positive influence on their parents' innovation adoption behavior, but not a significant influence on their parents' overall innovativeness, whereas young adult children with siblings had a different effect: Their innovativeness had a significant positive influence on their parents' overall innovativeness, but not a direct impact on their parents' innovation adoption.
Column Dust Scrubber Based on an Orifice Plate to Intensify Gas‐Liquid Mixing
Authors: Li Xiaochuan , Xu Xinhao , Zhang Mingrui , Jiao Yongkang
Published: June 2019

A column dust scrubber based on an orifice plate is developed for small and medium‐sized enterprises in China, which urgently need small‐volume, large‐flow scrubbers. The scrubber uses an orifice plate to evenly distribute the gas flow, which forms a uniform and stable impact on the liquid phase. As a result, dust removal via intensified gas‐liquid mixing can be achieved. A laboratory orifice plate scrubber model is developed, prototyped, and preliminarily studied considering the working process of the scrubber (mixed gas‐liquid flow pattern), liquid level, gas flow rate, pressure drop characteristics, dust removal efficiency, etc. The scrubber can achieve a good gas‐liquid mixing state when it is in a stable liquid column flow pattern. The drag coefficient of the scrubber is affected by the discharge of the gas stream to the liquid phase.
Novel fluorine‐containing chiral hydrazide‐hydrazones: Design, synthesis, structural elucidation, antioxidant and anticholinesterase activity, andin silicostudies
Authors: Sıcak Yusuf , Oruç‐Emre Emine Elçin , Öztürk Mehmet , Taşkın‐Tok Tuğba , Karaküçük‐Iyidoğan Ayşegül
Published: June 2019

In this study, a series of fluorine‐containing chiral hydrazide‐hydrazone derivatives[III‐XII]from ʟ‐cysteine ethyl ester hydrochloride was synthesized as new antioxidant and anticholinesterase agents. The antioxidant activity of these derivatives was evaluated by ABTS+·and DPPH·scavenging and CUPRAC assays and the anticholinesterase activity by the Ellman method spectrophotometrically. The results of the antioxidant assay showed that compoundsV,IX, andXexhibited higher activity than BHT andα‐tocopherol used as positive standards. Among the synthesized derivatives, compoundIX(IC50: 2.3 ± 1.6 μM) exhibited higher acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity than galantamine (IC50: 4.5 ± 0.8 μM).

CompoundsXI(IC50: 9.6 ± 1.0 μM),IX(IC50: 12.5 ± 1.6 μM),III(IC50: 16.0 ± 1.6 μM),X(IC50: 17.2 ± 1.8 μM),VI(IC50: 20.2 ± 0.8 μM),XII(IC50: 21.5 ± 1.0 μM), andVII(IC50: 24.6 ± 0.6 μM) displayed better butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory activity than galantamine (IC50: 46.03 ± 0.14 μM). ADME‐Tox analysis was used to probe the drug‐like properties of the compounds. Molecular docking studies were also applied to understand the interactions between compounds and targets. The docking calculations were supported by the experimental data. In particular, compoundIX, having better activity than galantamine against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzymes, was visualized using molecular docking.
Understanding Regium Bonds and their Competition with Hydrogen Bonds in Au2:HX Complexes
Authors: Sánchez‐Sanz Goar , Trujillo Cristina , Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José
Published: June 2019

The front cover artwork is provided by Dr. Goar Sánchez (Irish Centre for High‐End Computing, Ireland), Dr. Cristina Trujillo (Trinity College Dublin, Ireland), Prof. Ibon Alkorta and Prof. José Elguero (Spanish National Research Council, Spain). The image shows the two possible interactions between Au2 and HF molecules: Traditional hydrogen bond (bottom) and regium bond (top). Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cphc.201900354.
WBQoEMS: Web browsing QoE monitoring system based on prediction algorithms
Authors: Ben Letaifa Asma
Published: June 2019

These years, researchers are interested in the web users perceived Quality of Experience called web QoE. Monitoring web browsing QoE can help service providers to determine if network conditions are contributing to user satisfaction. Making a relationship between web QoE and network parameters helps them to evaluate potential solutions in order to increase user satisfaction. Recent literature use metrics such as page load, wait time, or SpeedIndex to estimate the QoE of web users. However, QoE is a measure that remains subjective, and its evaluation is expensive and tedious because it requires a high human participation. Using Big Data Analytics, web service providers can anticipate user's behavior and take necessary actions which lead to better QoS/QoE. In this work, we have shown that we can make a relationship between QoS and QoE and predict QoE thanks to machine learning (ML) algorithms or deep learning approach. In fact, these new prediction solutions can help in prediction of the web QoE. Yet, this work focuses on some key performance indicators in the field of web browsing where Big Data Analytics are used. It gives a predictive solution based on Big Data tools to monitor and work toward enhancing QoS and QoE for the web users. Therefore, the design of a tool that can objectively measure this QoE with reasonable accuracy and in real time has become a primary need which is an interesting challenge to solve. As a first contribution, we analyzed the impact of network behavior on the quality of web services, then described some relevant research works done in ML field to predict QoE. We finally give the proposed tool based on prediction algorithms from ML and deep learning both used to monitor web QoE.
Optical modeling and optimization of parabolic trough concentration photovoltaic/thermal system
Authors: Alayi Reza , Kasaeian Alibakhsh , Atabi Farideh
Published: June 2019

In this research, a genetic algorithm has been used to optimize the focal area of the parabolic trough concentration photovoltaic/thermal. First, based on the physical and thermodynamic variables, the system modeling was performed; then, by changing the variables were calculated the effect of these parameters on the electrical and thermal efficiencies. In the next step, the optimization was conducted by the mentioned algorithms. The objective function consists of two targets of electrical efficiency combined with thermal efficiency. The optimization variables include the length of the system, the pipe diameter, the collector diameter, mass flow rate, and the photovoltaic cell width. After running the program in the normal mode, the highest electrical and thermal efficiencies were 0.2063 and 0.4473 for the length of 10 m, the collector diameter of 1.2 m, the flow rate of 0.15 kg/s, the pipe diameter of 0.03 m, and the photovoltaic cell width of 0.02 m. According to the genetic algorithm, the optimal answer for the total efficiency of this system is 0.84737.
(R)‐Tonkafuranone and related compounds: Improved synthesis, stereochemical purity in nature, and bioactivities of the pure enantiomers
Authors: Hoffmann Matthias , Mufusama Koy Sita Jean‐Pierre , Kleider Carolin , Gunesch Sandra , Rothmund Bruno , Lehmann Leane , Bringmann Gerhard , Decker Michael
Published: June 2019

Dehydromenthofurolactone (tonkafuranone) and other bicyclic lactones are common flavour compounds and can be found in a variety of plants. Herein, we present an improved synthesis of the natural product and a series of close analogues, in combination with efficient purification methods for simple preparation from cheap and easily accessible chemicals. A two‐step, one‐pot, reaction procedure, consisting of an aldol condensation step with concomitant lactonization, yields simplified analogues of the natural parent compound (R)‐tonkafuranone and its likewise natural (S)‐enantiomer, lacking one or two of its methyl groups, respectively. In the case of regioisomeric products, these were resolved by preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography, which, in the case of chiral, yet racemic products, was followed by preparative enantio‐resolution on a chiral phase, permitting the isolation of all four pure isomers from one synthetic step. Using the stereo‐analytical method developed, the enantiomeric purity of natural tonkafuranone occurring in Bursera graveolens was analysed and found to be ‘100:0’ in favour of the S‐enantiomer. The chiral, enantiomerically pure products were configurationally assigned by co‐elution, semi‐synthesis, and/or chiroptical methods. With the pure isomers obtained, specific cytotoxicities were tested in two cell lines as a measure for their reactivities towards cellular nucleophiles. Although the synthesized compounds differed in their cytotoxic potential in V79 cells, they exhibited a much smaller cytotoxic potential than the mutagenic α,β,γ,δ‐unsaturated lactone patulin. No toxicity towards murine hippocampal HT‐22 cells was observed at 50 μM. Thus, the molecular mechanism contributing to the high reactivity of patulin towards nucleophiles may not apply for tonkafuranone and structurally related compounds.
A high‐order Runge‐Kutta discontinuous Galerkin method with a subcell limiter on adaptive unstructured grids for two‐dimensional compressible inviscid flows
Authors: Giri Pritam , Qiu Jianxian
Published: June 2019

A robust, adaptive unstructured mesh refinement strategy for high‐order Runge‐Kutta discontinuous Galerkin method is proposed. The present work mainly focuses on accurate capturing of sharp gradient flow features like strong shocks in the simulations of two‐dimensional inviscid compressible flows. A posteriori finite volume subcell limiter is employed in the shock‐affected cells to control numerical spurious oscillations. An efficient cell‐by‐cell adaptive mesh refinement is implemented to increase the resolution of our simulations. This strategy enables to capture strong shocks without much numerical dissipation. A wide range of challenging test cases is considered to demonstrate the efficiency of the present adaptive numerical strategy for solving inviscid compressible flow problems having strong shocks.
Associations between brain morphology and motor performance in chronic neck pain: A whole‐brain surface‐based morphometry approach
Authors: De Pauw Robby , Coppieters Iris , Caeyenberghs Karen , Kregel Jeroen , Aerts Hannelore , Lenoir Dorine , Cagnie Barbara
Published: June 2019

Changes in brain morphology are hypothesized to be an underlying process that drive the widespread pain and motor impairment in patients with chronic neck pain. However, no earlier research assessed whole‐brain cortical morphology in these patients. This case–control study assesses group‐differences in whole‐brain morphology between female healthy controls (HC; n = 34), and female patients with chronic idiopathic neck pain (CINP; n = 37) and whiplash‐associated disorders (CWAD; n = 39). Additionally, the associations between whole‐brain morphology and motor performance including balance, strength, and neuromuscular control were assessed. Cortical volume, thickness, and surface area were derived from high resolution T1‐weighted images. T2*‐weighted images were obtained to exclude traumatic brain injury. Vertex‐wise general‐linear‐model‐analysis revealed cortical thickening in the left precuneus and increased volume in the left superior parietal gyrus of patients with CINP compared to HC, and cortical thickening of the left superior parietal gyrus compared to HC and CWAD. Patients with CWAD showed a smaller cortical volume in the right precentral and superior temporal gyrus compared to HC. ANCOVA‐analysis revealed worse neuromuscular control in CWAD compared to HC and CINP, and in CINP compared to HC. Patients with CWAD showed decreased levels of strength and sway area compared to CINP and HC. Partial correlation analysis revealed significant associations between the volume of the precentral gyrus, and neuromuscular control and strength together with an association between the volume of the superior temporal gyrus and strength. Our results emphasize the role of altered gray matter alterations in women with chronic neck pain, and its association with pain and motor impairment.
Fat talk: Influences on body image in childcare
Authors: Lombardi Karen , Beatty Shelley , Devine Amanda , Wallace Ruth , Costello Leesa
Published: June 2019

Issue addressed

This research explored the use of “fat talk” by early childhood educators and their awareness of their potential influence on the developing body image of young children.

Methods

Mixed methods comprising focus groups, telephone interviews and demographic surveys with 44 early childhood educators Australia‐wide.

Results

Findings showed many educators in this research recognised that they had a role to play in the development of children's body image, though some were unsure when body image began to develop. Educators engaged widely in “fat talk,” in the vicinity of children or other educators, and accepted such talk as normal.

Discussion

“Fat talk” features in the workplace and is commonly used by early childhood educators. Its influence on the development of body image on young children did not appear to be well understood by early years’ educators or of a concern to them.

Conclusions

Since body image develops in children from around three years of age, the role of early childhood educators in its development should not be overlooked.

So what? Relevance to Health Promotion

Body image is a misunderstood public health concern, with long‐term impacts on weight, mental health and physical health. Promotion of positive body image and the early recognition of body image disturbance are crucial, as children who exhibit body dissatisfaction in their formative years have a greater risk of severe body image disturbance as they progress through childhood and adolescence. Since early childhood educators spend significant time with children, encouraging them to avoid engaging in “fat talk” and instead to promote positive body image is warranted.
Proflavine/acriflavine derivatives with versatile biological activities
Authors: Sabolova Danica , Kristian Pavol , Kozurkova Mária
Published: June 2019

Proflavine derivatives are extremely interesting chemotherapeutic agents, which have shown promising pharmaceutical potential due to their wide range of biological activities. This review summarizes the current state of research into the anticancer, antimicrobial, antimalarial and antileishmanial properties of these attractive compounds. Our attention has focused on new classes of proflavine conjugates, which display significant levels of anticancer activity. Highly promising cytotoxic properties have been identified in proflavine conjugates with imidazolidinones, ureas and thioureas. In particular, proflavine‐dialkyldithioureas displayed substantial cytotoxic effect against the human leukemia HL‐60 cells with IC50 values from 7.2 to 34.0 μm. As well, palladium complexes with proflavine ligand have important biologic activity. The LC50 values of these complexes were significantly lower than that of cisplatin against the SK‐BR‐3 cell line.
Potential self‐disinfection capacity of touch screen displays
Authors: Hessling Martin , Spellerberg Barbara , Hönes Katharina
Published: June 2019

Touch screen displays are potential pathogen reservoirs and involved in the spread of hospital acquired infections. They emit visible light that is known for a weak but proven antimicrobial photoinactivation effect, so the question is whether displays have the potential to disinfect themselves. To test the antimicrobial capacity of touch screen displays, Staphylococcus carnosus are distributed on Samsung tablets and illuminated for up to 36 hours. The average number of colony forming units decreases with time with white light being the most efficient followed by blue, green and red light. Increasing the illumination intensity by a mirror leads to a faster bacterial decrease up to a 90% reduction in 15 hours. A 99.99% reduction of staphylococci should be possible by turning on the display over the weekend.
Regulatory effects of lncRNA ATB targeting miR‐200c on proliferation and apoptosis of colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Gao Zhenyuan , Zhou Hairong , Wang Yaping , Chen Juan , Ou Yimei
Published: June 2019

This investigation was intended to elucidate whether long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)‐activated by transforming growth factor‐β (ATB) interacting with miR‐200c could mediate colorectal cancer (CRC) progression, offering potential strategies for diagnosing and treating CRC. Here totally 315 patients with CRC were recruited, and their CRC tissues and adjacent normal tissues were gathered. Concurrently, four colon cancer cell lines (ie, SW620, Lovo, HCT116, and SW480) and the human colon mucosal epithelial cell line (NCM460) were also purchased. Moreover, si‐ATB, si‐NC, miR‐200c mimic, miR‐200c inhibitor, and miR‐NC were prepared for transfection into the CRC cells, and their effects on CRC cell lines were evaluated based on the conduction of 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, colony formation assay, and flow cytometry assay. Eventually, the Luciferase reporter gene assay was carried out to judge if there existed a targeted relationship between ATB and miR‐200c. The results of Cox regression analyses suggested that overexpressed lncRNA ATB, underexpressed miR‐200c, poor tumor differentiation, lymph‐vascular invasion, and perineural invasion were symbolic of shortened survival of the patients with CRC (all P < .05). Besides, transfection of pcDNA3.1‐ATB and miR‐200c inhibitor could boost the viability and proliferation of Lovo and SW620 cell lines (all P < .05). Meanwhile, the expressions of p53 and p21 were also reduced under treatments of pcDNA3.1‐ATB and miR‐200c inhibitor (P < .05). In addition, CDK2 seemed to reverse the contribution of miR‐200c to intensifying viability and proliferation of Lovo and SW420 cell lines (P < .05). Furthermore, ATB might downregulate miR‐200c expression by targeting it (P < .05), and CDK2 was subjected to dual regulation of both ATB and miR‐200c (P < .05). In conclusion, the lncRNA ATB/miR‐200c/CDK2 signaling was responsible for intensified proliferation and prohibited apoptosis of CRC cells, which might provide effective approaches for diagnosing and treating CRC.
Theoretical insights into the fluoride anion response mechanism of a fluorescence chemosensor 4‐((tert‐butyldiphenylsilyl)oxy)isophthalaldehyde
Authors: Du Xiaohan , Yang Xiaohui , Gao Haiyan , Yang Dapeng
Published: June 2019

It is well known that ions play important roles in our life sciences, and the detection of ions has attracted more and more attention. In this work, we focus on the sensing response mechanism of a novel fluoride chemosensor, 4‐((tert‐butyldiphenylsilyl)oxy)isophthalaldehyde (BIPA). Based on density functional theory and time‐dependent density functional theory methods, we clarify that fluoride anions could trigger the cleavage reaction of the Si‐O bond of BIPA in the ground state. And, the potential energy curve of desilylation process reveals the rapid response to fluoride anions. Comparing the binding energies between fluoride anions and other anions, we confirm that only the fluoride anions could be detected using the BIPA chemosensor in ethanol solvent. Considering the photo‐excitation process, we find the strong intramolecular charge transfer process for the S0 → S1 transition could explain the red shift of the absorption spectra of the BIPA system. This work not only clarifies the specific fluoride‐sensing mechanism, but also plays a role in facilitating designing and synthesizing of novel fluorescent sensors in future.
LINC00324 accelerates the proliferation and migration of osteosarcoma through regulating WDR66
Authors: Wu Shaokun , Gu Zhiqian , Wu Yaojun , Wu Wei , Mao Bo , Zhao Shoujun
Published: June 2019

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a type of malignancy featured with high morbidity and easy metastasis. Although past years have witnessed the great improvement in the treatments of OS, there remains a long way to go. Therefore, further research on the underlying molecular mechanism of OS progression is in imminent need. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) are recognized as a cluster of transcripts over 200 bases. Increasing studies have unveiled their significant regulatory roles in cancers, including in osteosarcoma. Long intergenic non‐protein coding RNA 324 (LINC00324) is a newly identified lncRNA exerting oncogenic functions in several cancers, but its role in OS is yet to be uncovered. Therefore, the present study planned to explore the role of LINC00324 in osteosarcoma. We first validated the upregulation of LINC00324 in OS tissues and cell lines and established its correlation with OS tumor progression and metastasis. Importantly, the prognostic significance of LINC00324 was identified in patients with OS. Gain‐ and loss‐of‐function assays revealed that LINC00324 accelerated cell proliferation and migration in OS. Mechanistically, we revealed that LINC00324 stabilized WD repeat‐containing protein 66 (WDR66) messenger RNA through interacting with Hu antigen R. Rescue assays verified that WDR66 was required for the regulation of LINC00324 in promoting proliferation and migration of OS cells. In conclusion, the present study proved that LINC00324 accelerated the proliferation and migration of osteosarcoma cells through regulating WDR66, providing a new prognostic target for osteosarcoma.
Weighted gene correlation network analysis identifies RSAD2, HERC5, and CCL8 as prognostic candidates for breast cancer
Authors: Tang Jianing , Yang Qian , Cui Qiuxia , Zhang Dan , Kong Deguang , Liao Xing , Ren Jiangbo , Gong Yan , Wu Gaosong
Published: June 2019

As the most commonly diagnosed malignant tumor in female population, the prognosis of breast cancer is affected by complex gene interaction networks. In this research weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) would be utilized to build a gene co‐expression network to identify potential biomarkers for prediction the prognosis of patients with breast cancer. We downloaded GSE25065 from Gene Expression Omnibus database as the test set. GSE25055 and GSE42568 were utilized to validate findings in the research. Seven modules were established in the GSE25065 by utilizing average link hierarchical clustering. Three hub genes, RSAD2, HERC5, and CCL8 were screened out from the significant module (R
2 = 0.44), which were considerably interrelated to worse prognosis. Within test dataset GSE25065, RSAD2, and CCL8 were correlated with tumor stage, grade, and lymph node metastases, whereas HERC5 was correlated with lymph node metastases and tumor grade. In the validation dataset GSE25055 and RSAD2 expression was correlated with tumor grade, stage, and size, whereas HERC5 was related to tumor stage and tumor grade, and CCL8 was associated with tumor size and tumor grade. Multivariable survival analysis demonstrated that RSAD2, HERC5, and CCL8 were independent risk factors. In conclusion, the WGCNA analysis conducted in this study screened out novel prognostic biomarkers of breast cancer. Meanwhile, further in vivo and in vitro studies are required to make the clear molecular mechanisms.
Cellular study of the LPS‐induced osteoclastic multinucleated cell formation from RAW264.7 cells
Authors: Xiao Yuan , Cao Yang , Song Chengchao , Ren Xiaoyu , Yan Liang , Hao Dingjun , Kong Lingbo
Published: June 2019

Despite the response to the receptor activator of nuclear factor κ‐Β ligand (RANKL), a study has reported that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) could induce RAW264.7 linage osteoclastic differentiation. However, on the contrary, another study recently showed that the LPS‐induced multinuclear cells from RAW264.7 did not express osteoclastic functions. Interestingly, in our previous study, we found that RAW264.7 cells pretreated with 10 ng LPS plus macrophage‐colony stimulating factor did not show any effects for enhancing RANKL‐induced osteoclastic cell differentiation. Therefore, in our current study, we aim to investigate the oteoclastogesis induction ability and efficacy of LPS in the RAW264.7 cell line and relevant molecular signaling. The osteoclastogenic activity of LPS‐treated RAW264.7 linage was studied by bone resorption pits and fibrous actin study. Besides that, through polymerase chain reaction and western blot, we showed that the transcriptional factor c‐Fos and Nfatc1 might be associated with LPS‐induced osteoclastogenesis. Overall, the results of our current study showed positive proof for osteoclast generation from LPS‐independent treatment, as well as established an optimal and efficient method for this process.
Solution Properties and Displacement Characteristics of in situ CO2 Foam System for Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Jin Fa‐yang , Du Daijun , Pu Wanfen , Wang Song
Published: June 2019

Carbon dioxide (CO2) foam flooding has been shown to enhance oil recovery. However, large‐scale adoption has been restricted by issues with transportation of CO2 and equipment corrosion. In situ CO2 foam generation can possibly overcome these issues. In this article, a CO2 sustained‐release system was first optimized for the CO2 production rate and production efficiency. Then, the dissolution capacity and plug‐removing ability of the sustained‐release system were evaluated. Visual experiment and parallel sand pack flooding tests were conducted to verify the formation, propagation of in situ CO2 foam, and the feasibility of this technique. The results indicated that the sustained‐release system had benign ability to lower injection pressure and improve injectability. Moreover, in situ CO2 foam flooding could obtain high oil recovery due to favorable mobility control ability, interfacial tension reduction capacity, and heterogeneity improvement. All the experiments demonstrated that the in situ CO2 foam technique has great potential for enhanced oil recovery in the Bohai oilfield.
Innovative perspectives on Pulicaria dysenterica extracts: phyto‐pharmaceutical properties, chemical characterization and multivariate analysis
Authors: de la Luz Cádiz‐Gurrea María , Zengin Gokhan , Kayacık Ozlem , Lobine Devina , Mahomoodally Mohamad Fawzi , Leyva‐Jiménez Francisco Javier , Segura‐Carretero Antonio
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the influence of different extraction procedures [decoction, homogenizer‐assisted extraction (HAE), infusion, maceration, Soxhlet and ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE)] on the chemical profiling and biological properties of methanol and water extracts of Pulicaria dysenterica (L.) Bernh. The chemical profiles of the extracts were evaluated by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization and time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (HPLC‐ESI‐TOF‐MS). The antioxidant properties and enzymes (lipase, α‐amylase, α‐glucosidase, tyrosinase and cholinesterases) inhibitory potential of the extracts were evaluated.

RESULTS

The chemical profiles were dependent on the type of extraction methods as well as on the type of solvent. The methanolic extracts showed higher levels of total phenolic, flavonoid, and phenolic acid content, while the highest total flavonol content was observed in the HAE–water extract. Forty different compounds were identified from P. dysenterica. In relation to the potential in vitro anti‐diabetic effects, the highest activity against the studied key enzymes was observed for the macerated extract (α‐amylase: 0.58 ± 0.03 and α‐ glucosidase: 1.65 ± 0.03 mmol ACAE g−1). The HAE–methanol extract was the most potent inhibitor of cholisterases, whereas the highest activities against tyrosinase were observed for UAE–methanol extract, followed by macerated and Soxhlet. The inhibitory activity of the studied extracts against lipase were in the order: soxhlet > macerated> HAE–methanol > UAE–methanol.

CONCLUSION

This study has established scientific baseline data on the therapeutic properties of P. dysentrica, thereby advocating the need for further investigations in an endeavour to develop novel pharmaceuticals from this plant. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Estimating abundances, densities, and interspecific associations in a carnivore community
Authors: Forsyth David M. , Ramsey David S. L. , Woodford Luke P.
Published: June 2019

Estimating population abundances, densities, and interspecific interactions are common goals in wildlife management. Camera traps have been used to estimate the abundance and density of a single species, and are useful for carnivores that occur at low densities. Spatial capture–recapture (SCR) models can be used to estimate abundance and density from a camera trap array when all, some, or no individuals in the population can be uniquely identified. These SCR models also estimate locations of individual activity centers, the spatial patterning of which could provide important information about interspecific interactions. We used SCR models to estimate abundances, densities, and activity centers of each of 3 carnivore species (i.e., dingo [Canis familiaris], red fox [Vulpes vulpes], and feral cat) using photographs from 1 camera trap array in southeastern Australia during September to November 2015. Some dingoes and feral cats were uniquely identifiable and therefore, we used a spatial mark–resight model for these species. We could not uniquely identify fox individuals, however, so we used a spatial unmarked (SUN) model for this species. Our estimated dingo density was 0.06/km2. The fox (0.25/km2) and feral cat (0.16/km2) densities are within the ranges previously reported for these species in Australia. We obtained a relatively imprecise fox density estimate because we did not have detections of uniquely identifiable individuals; hence, the SUN model should be used as a last resort. We next modeled spatial dependence among the estimated activity centers for the 3 species using a spatial pair correlation function for a marked point process. Consistent with our expectations, the activity centers of dingoes and foxes were strongly negatively associated at distances of <1,000 m. Foxes and feral cats were also negatively associated at distances of <1,500 m. Surprisingly, dingoes and feral cats were positively associated at distances of >500 m, with no association evident at distances of <500 m. Our study extends the inferences that can be made from using a camera trap array and SCR methods to include spatial patterning and interspecific interactions, and provides new insights into the carnivore community of dingoes, foxes, and feral cats in southeastern Australia. © 2019 The Authors. The Journal of Wildlife Management Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preparation of Small‐Diameter Tissue‐Engineered Vascular Grafts Electrospun from Heparin End‐Capped PCL and Evaluation in a Rabbit Carotid Artery Replacement Model
Authors: Jin Xin , Geng Xue , Jia Liujun , Xu Zeqin , Ye Lin , Gu Yongquan , Zhang Ai‐Ying , Feng Zeng‐Guo
Published: June 2019

Aiming to construct small diameter (ID <6 mm) off‐the‐shelf tissue‐engineered vascular grafts, the end‐group heparinizd poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) is synthesized by a three‐step process and then electrospun into an inner layer of double‐layer vascular scaffolds (DLVSs) showing a hierarchical double distribution of nano‐ and microfibers. Afterward, PCL without the end‐group heparinization is electrospun into an outer layer. A steady release of grafted heparin and the existence of a glycocalyx structure give the grafts anticoagulation activity and the conjugation of heparin also improves hydrophilicity and accelerates degradation of the scaffolds. The DLVSs are evaluated in six rabbits via a carotid artery interpositional model for a period of three months. All the grafts are patent until explantation, and meanwhile smooth endothelialization and fine revascularization are observed in the grafts. The composition of the outer layer of scaffolds exhibits a significant effect on the aneurysm dilation after implantation. Only one aneurysm dilation is detected at two months and no calcification is formed in the follow‐up term. How to prevent aneurysms remains a challenging topic.
Correlations of quantitative MRI metrics with myelin basic protein (MBP) staining in a murine model of demyelination
Authors: Soustelle Lucas , Antal Maria C. , Lamy Julien , Rousseau François , Armspach Jean‐Paul , Loureiro de Sousa Paulo
Published: June 2019

Myelin imaging in the central nervous system is essential for monitoring pathologies involving white matter alterations. Various quantitative MRI protocols relying on the modeling of the interactions of water protons with myelinated tissues have shown sensitivities in case of myelin disruption. Some extracted model parameters are more sensitive to demyelination, such as the bound pool fraction (f) in quantitative magnetization transfer imaging (qMTI), the radial diffusivity in diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and the myelin water fraction (MWF) in myelin water imaging (MWI). A 3D ultrashort echo time (UTE) sequence within an appropriate water suppression condition (Diff‐UTE) is also considered for the direct visualization of the myelin semi‐solid matrix (Diff‐UTE normalized signal; rSPF). In this paper, we aimed at assessing the sensitivities and correlations of the parameters mentioned above to an immuno‐histological study of the myelin basic protein (MBP) in a murine model of demyelination at 7 T. We demonstrated a high sensitivity of the MRI metrics to demyelination, and strong Spearman correlations in the corpus callosum between histology, macromolecular proton fraction (ρ>0.87) and Diff‐UTE signal (ρ>0.76), but moderate ones with radial diffusivity and MWF (|ρ|<0.70).
Insights into pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma research: Challenges and goals
Authors: Yohe Marielle E. , Heske Christine M. , Stewart Elizabeth , Adamson Peter C. , Ahmed Nabil , Antonescu Cristina R. , Chen Eleanor , Collins Natalie , Ehrlich Alan , Galindo Rene L. , Gryder Berkley E. , Hahn Heidi , Hammond Sharon , Hatley Mark E. , Hawkins Douglas S. , Hayes Madeline N. , Hayes‐Jordan Andrea , Helman Lee J. , Hettmer Simone , Ignatius Myron S. , Keller Charles , Khan Javed , Kirsch David G. , Linardic Corinne M. , Lupo Philip J. , Rota Rossella , Shern Jack F. , Shipley Janet , Sindiri Sivasish , Tapscott Stephen J. , Vakoc Christopher R. , Wexler Leonard H. , Langenau David M.
Published: June 2019

Overall survival rates for pediatric patients with high‐risk or relapsed rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) have not improved significantly since the 1980s. Recent studies have identified a number of targetable vulnerabilities in RMS, but these discoveries have infrequently translated into clinical trials. We propose streamlining the process by which agents are selected for clinical evaluation in RMS. We believe that strong consideration should be given to the development of combination therapies that add biologically targeted agents to conventional cytotoxic drugs. One example of this type of combination is the addition of the WEE1 inhibitor AZD1775 to the conventional cytotoxic chemotherapeutics, vincristine and irinotecan.
NMR‐based metabolomics and bioassays to study phytotoxic extracts and putative phytotoxins from Mediterranean plant species
Authors: Scognamiglio Monica , Graziani Vittoria , Tsafantakis Nikolaos , Esposito Assunta , Fiorentino Antonio , D'Abrosca Brigida
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Mediterranean plants are characterised by a high content of bioactive secondary metabolites that play important roles in plant–plant interactions as plant growth regulators and could be useful for the development of new eco‐friendly herbicides.

Objective

An NMR‐based metabolomics approach was reported to seek selective phytotoxic plant extracts and putative plant‐derived active molecules.

Methods

Plant extracts derived from five Mediterranean donor species (Pistacia lentiscus, Bellis sylvestris, Phleum subulatum, Petrohrhagia saxifraga and Melilotus neapolitana) were used to treat the hydroponic cultures of three receiving plants (Triticum durum, Triticum ovatum and Avena fatua). Morphological analyses of the treated receiving plants were carried out. NMR‐based metabolomics was applied both to characterise the donor plant extracts and to study the effects of the treatments on the receiving plants.

Results

This study allowed the identification of Melilotus neapolitana and Bellis sylvestris as phytotoxic plant and good candidates for further studies. Specifically, the NMR‐based metabolomics investigation showed that these species affect a specific set of metabolites (such as sugars, amino and organic acids) and therefore metabolic pathways [i.e. tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, amino acid metabolism, etc.] that are crucial for the plant growth and development.

Moreover, it was possible to identify the metabolite(s) probably responsible for the phytotoxicity of the active extracts.

Conclusion

The NMR‐based metabolomics approach employed in this study led to the identification of two phytotoxic plant extracts and their putative active principles. These new insights will be of paramount importance in the future to find plant derived molecules endowed with phytotoxic activities.
Solar cell efficiency tables (version 54)
Authors: Green Martin A. , Dunlop Ewan D. , Levi Dean H. , Hohl‐Ebinger Jochen , Yoshita Masahiro , Ho‐Baillie Anita W.Y.
Published: June 2019

Consolidated tables showing an extensive listing of the highest independently confirmed efficiencies for solar cells and modules are presented. Guidelines for inclusion of results into these tables are outlined, and new entries since January 2019 are reviewed.
The deamination mechanism of 5,6‐dihydrocytosine and 5,6‐dihydro‐5‐methylcytosine under typical bisulfite condition
Authors: Jin Lingxia , Shi Shengnan , Song Xiaoling , Zhao Caibin , Lu Jiufu , An Chen , Xu Pingping , Wang Zhengguo , Qin Gongwei
Published: June 2019

The discrimination of DNA methylation could make more complicated with the appearance of these minor bases. The conventional bisulfite sequencing faces with the tremendous challenge in the discrimination of DNA methylation. Therefore, the improved and modification bisulfite sequencing has been conducted to raise the reaction selectivity. The key mechanism for these bisulfite sequencing is the reaction of nucleic acids with HSO3− under acidic conditions. The C5═C6 bonds of 5‐methylcytosine (5‐MeCyt) and cytosine (Cyt) have been modified to improve the difference of activation free energies in bisulfite conditions. Because of this, the hydrolytic deamination of DHCytN3+ (paths A and B) and 5‐DHMeCytN3+ isomers (equatorial and axial conformers, paths C and D) has been explored in the presence of the HSO3− group. The activation free energies (ΔGs≠) of DHCytN3+ and 5‐DHMeCytN3+ equatorial conformer paths exhibit no obvious difference, which increases difficulties in differentiating cytosine from 5‐methylcytosine under bisulfite conditions. Meanwhile, the difference of ΔGs≠ between the 5‐DHMeCytN3+ axial conformer and DHCytN3+ is consistent with the experimental results, where the calculated deamination rate is lower for 5,6‐dihydro‐5‐methylcytosine than for 5,6‐dihydrocytosine. And by extrapolation, the differentiating Cyt from 5‐MeCyt may have a greater possibility by bisulfite treatment. These results have high expectations for the experimental scientists to explore new methods to avoid the formation of the 5‐DHMeCytN3+ equatorial conformer. Furthermore, the rate constant with Wigner tunneling correction for paths A, C, and D are in good agreement with uncorrected results.
Interplay between Short‐ and Long‐Ranged Forces Leading to the Formation of Ag Nanoparticle Superlattice
Authors: Lee Jaewon , Nakouzi Elias , Xiao Dongdong , Wu Zhigang , Song Miao , Ophus Colin , Chun Jaehun , Li Dongsheng
Published: June 2019

Nanoparticle (NP) superlattices have attracted increasing attention due to their unique physicochemical properties. However, key questions persist regarding the correlation between short‐ and long‐range driving forces for nanoparticle assembly and resultant capability to predict the transient and final superlattice structure. Here the self‐assembly of Ag NPs in aqueous solutions is investigated by employing in situ liquid cell transmission electron microscopy, combined with atomic force microscopy‐based force measurements, and theoretical calculations. Despite the NPs exhibiting instantaneous Brownian motion, it is found that the dynamic behavior of NPs is correlated with the van der Waals force, sometimes unexpectedly over relatively large particle separations. After the NPs assemble into clusters, a delicate balance between the hydration and van der Waals forces results in a distinct distribution of particle separation, which is ascribed to layers of hydrated ions adsorbed on the NP surface. The study demonstrates pivotal roles of the complicated correlation between interparticle forces; potentially enabling the control of particle separation, which is critical for tailoring the properties of NP superlattices.