bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
C‐Halogenated 9,10‐Diboraanthracenes: How the Halogen Load and Distribution Influences Key Optoelectronic Properties
Authors: Brend'amour Simon , Gilmer Jannik , Bolte Michael , Lerner Hans‐Wolfram , Wagner Matthias
Published: October 2018

9,10‐Dihydro‐9,10‐diboraanthracenes (DBAs) have low‐energy LUMOs and narrow HOMO–LUMO gaps and are thus attractive electron‐transporting and light‐emitting materials in optoelectronic devices. A systematic series of ten C‐halogenated 9,10‐(Mes)2‐DBAs was synthesized and studied by cyclic voltammetry, UV/Vis absorption and emission spectroscopy, and quantum‐chemical calculations (Mes=mesityl). We probed the influence of the nature of the halogen atoms and the halogen substitution patterns on key optoelectronic properties of the DBAs. All 9,10‐(Mes)2 derivatives can be reversibly reduced at the DBA cores and at electrode potentials between E1/2Red1=−1.84 and −1.26 V (vs. FcH/FcH+). The most bathochromic UV/Vis absorption and the fluorescence emission of each DBA correspond to an ICT transition between the Mes rings and the DBA core. Br substituents lower the DBA LUMO energy and narrow the energy gap to the highest degree along the series F<Cl<Br. Halogen atoms located at 1,4,5,8‐positions are more influential than those at 2,3,6,7‐positions. An increasing fluorine load continuously decreases the LUMO levels and HOMO–LUMO gaps. Colorless octafluoro‐ and tetrafluoro‐DBAs form colored and fluorescent π‐stacked hetero dimers with anthracene in C6H6 solutions and in the solid state. The sterically congested 1,5‐(ThMe)2‐9,10‐(Mes)2‐DBA was prepared in 74 % yield from 1,5‐(Br)2‐9,10‐(Mes)2‐DBA and Me3Sn‐ThMe through a Stille‐type C−C coupling reaction (ThMe=5‐Me‐2‐thienyl).
Polyhedral Cu2O Crystals for Diverse Aryl Alkyne Hydroboration Reactions
Authors: Tsai Hsin‐Yi , Madasu Mahesh , Huang Michael H.
Published: October 2018

Cu2O cubes, octahedra, and rhombic dodecahedra have been used to examine facet‐dependent catalytic activity in aryl alkyne hydroboration reactions. Although the reaction can proceed by using ethanol or other alcohols as solvent, the use of 1,4‐dioxane gave the best product yield. All particle shapes gave exclusively the E‐product, but the rhombic dodecahedra exposing {110} surfaces were consistently far more reactive than the other particle morphologies. A product yield of 99 % was achieved by using Cu2O rhombic dodecahedra to catalyze the hydroboration of phenylacetylene at 60 °C for 5 h. The rhombic dodecahedra have been shown to catalyze a variety of substituted aryl alkynes, which demonstrates their potential as a versatile catalyst.
Decentralized executions of privacy awareness data analytics workflows in the cloud
Authors: Yao Yan , Cao Jian , Qian Shiyou , Feng Shanshan
Published: October 2018

Nowadays, with the development of cloud computing technology, an increasing number of enterprises or organizations have migrated applications to the cloud environment. Because of privacy concerns, a company may store sensitive data on a local server or a private cloud. As a result, the data analytics tasks have to be performed only in the local environment even when the analysis results will be shared to the outside. In this paper, we design a decentralized workflow system to speed up the execution of a Privacy‐Awareness Data Analytics application (PADA). Specifically, a workflow system with actor layer and engine layer for distributed execution of PADA proposed. The actors are responsible for performing actual data analysis tasks on the data side while the engines are deployed into different regions of the public cloud and communicate with actors to execute the whole workflow. Since engines in different regions have different communication latencies when invoking an actor, the optimization engine deployment scheme should be found to minimize the total execution time of a PADA. A path search‐based heuristic algorithm is designed to select suitable cloud regions to place the engines in the public cloud. The experimental results indicate that the proposed algorithm is effective in reducing application makespan.
Effect of storage time and temperature on cell cycle analysis by mass cytometry
Authors: Devine Raymond D. , Sekhri Palak , Behbehani Gregory K.
Published: October 2018

Cell cycle analysis is a recognized and important application of flow cytometry and, more recently, mass cytometry (MCM). Both technologies have been utilized for analysis of the cell cycle state of ex vivo samples from patients with hematologic malignancies. Clinical samples are frequently stored for hours at room temperature or cryogenically frozen before processing and analysis; however, how these processing methods alter cell cycle state is not well described. To understand how storage time and temperature affect the analysis of cell cycle distribution by MCM, two leukemia cell lines, HL‐60 and MOLM13, and primary human cells from three human bone marrow aspirates were stored and frozen under a variety of conditions that are likely to be encountered in a clinical setting. Our findings indicate that short delays in sample processing (less than 1 h), have little to no effect on cell cycle distribution, while longer delays or cryopreservation cause significant disruptions to the cell cycle fraction characterized by consistent reductions in IdU incorporation and variable alterations in other cell cycle phases. Analysis of the recovery of cryopreserved leukemia cell lines and marrow cells demonstrated that cell cycle alterations persist for at least 48 h after thawing. Our findings demonstrate that accurate cell cycle analysis requires that samples be processed rapidly after collection, and that cryopreservation significantly alters cell cycle fractions. Measurement of IdU incorporation was the most sensitive to both delays in processing and cryopreservation, while estimation of the total cycling cell fraction using Ki‐67 or phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein were least altered by the conditions tested. These findings provide guidance for the ideal approach to collection of samples for cell cycle analysis and can aid interpretation of cell cycle data from samples that cannot be collected under ideal circumstances. © 2018 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Studies on the in vivo metabolism of the SARM YK11: Identification and characterization of metabolites potentially useful for doping controls
Authors: Piper Thomas , Dib Josef , Putz Marlen , Fusshöller Gregor , Pop Valentin , Lagojda Andreas , Kuehne Dirk , Geyer Hans , Schänzer Wilhelm , Thevis Mario
Published: October 2018

A steroidal compound was recently detected in a seized black market product and was identified as (17α,20E)‐17,20‐[(1‐methoxyethylidene) bis (oxy)]‐3‐oxo‐19‐norpregna‐4,20‐diene‐21‐carboxylic acid methyl ester (YK11). This compound is described to possess selective androgen receptor modulator‐ and myostatin inhibitor‐like properties. As YK11 is an experimental drug candidate and a non‐approved substance for humans, scientific data on its metabolism is scarce. Due to its steroidal backbone and the arguably labile orthoester‐derived moiety positioned at the D‐ring, substantial metabolic conversion in vivo was anticipated. To unambiguously detect urinary metabolites of YK11, an elimination study with six‐fold deuterated YK11 was conducted. Post‐administration specimens were analyzed using hydrogen isotope ratio mass spectrometry coupled to single quadrupole mass spectrometry to identify metabolites alongside basic mass spectrometric data. Further characterization of those metabolites relevant to sports drug testing was accomplished using gas chromatography–high resolution‐high accuracy mass spectrometry. Fourteen deuterated urinary metabolites were detected comprising unconjugated, glucuronidated, and sulfoconjugated metabolites. As expected, no intact YK11 was observed in the elimination study urine samples. While the unconjugated metabolites disappeared within 24 hours post‐administration, both glucuronidated and sulfated metabolites were traceable for more than 48 hours. The chemical structures of the two most promising glucuronidated metabolites (5β‐19‐nor‐pregnane‐3α,17β,20‐triol and 5β‐19‐nor‐pregnane‐3α,17β‐diol‐20‐one) were verified by in‐house synthesis of both metabolites and confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance analysis. In order to elucidate their potential in sports drug testing, both were successfully implemented into the currently applied analytical method for the detection of anabolic agents.
Detection of non‐small cell lung cancer cells based on microfluidic polarization microscopic image analysis
Authors: Wang Yanjuan , Wang Junsheng , Meng Jie , Ding Gege , Shi Zhi , Wang Ruoyu , Zhang Xiaohui
Published: October 2018

In early diagnosis of lung cancer, a polarization microscopy is a powerful tool to obtain the optical information of biological tissues. In this paper, a new microfluidic polarization imaging and analysis method was proposed for the detection and classification of cancer‐associated fibroblasts and the two kinds of non‐small cell lung cancer cells, A549 and H322. A polarizing microscopy system was constructed based on a commercial microscope to obtain 3*3 Mueller matrix of cells. Based on the Muller matrix decomposition algorithm and analysis in spatial domain and frequency domain, appropriate classification parameters were selected for the characterization of different polarization characteristics of cells. Finally, the logistic regression models based on machine learning were applied to determine optimal feature parameters and classify cells. This method integrated the morphological information of the cells, and the polarization characteristics of the cells in different polarization states. It is for the first time that the polarization microscopic image analysis method has been applied to the detection and classification of non‐small cell lung cancer cells. The results show that the presented microfluidic polarization microscopic image analysis method could classify cells effectively. Compared with the Muller matrix measurement and calculation methods, the method proposed in this paper was greatly simplified in both the acquisition of polarized images and the analysis and processing of polarized images.
Enforced microglial depletion and repopulation as a promising strategy for the treatment of neurological disorders
Authors: Han Jinming , Zhu Keying , Zhang Xing‐Mei , Harris Robert A.
Published: October 2018

Microglia are prominent immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS) and are critical players in both neurological development and homeostasis, and in neurological diseases when dysfunctional. Our previous understanding of the phenotypes and functions of microglia has been greatly extended by a dearth of recent investigations. Distinct genetically defined subsets of microglia are now recognized to perform their own independent functions in specific conditions. The molecular profiling of single microglial cells indicates extensively heterogeneous reactions in different neurological disorders, resulting in multiple potentials for crosstalk with other kinds of CNS cells such as astrocytes and neurons. In settings of neurological diseases it could thus be prudent to establish effective cell‐based therapies by targeting entire microglial networks. Notably, activated microglial depletion through genetic targeting or pharmacological therapies within a suitable time window can stimulate replenishment of the CNS niche with new microglia. Additionally, enforced repopulation through provision of replacement cells also represents a potential means of exchanging dysfunctional with functional microglia. In each setting the newly repopulated microglia might have the potential to resolve ongoing neuroinflammation. In this review, we aim to summarize the most recent knowledge of microglia and to highlight microglial depletion and subsequent repopulation as a promising cell replacement therapy. Although glial cell replacement therapy is still in its infancy and future translational studies are still required, the approach is scientifically sound and provides new optimism for managing the neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation induced by activated microglia.
Assessing determinants of health care prepayment in China: Economic growth or government willingness? New evidence from the continuous wavelet analysis
Authors: Zhang Ying , Wang Rui , Yao Xinyi
Published: October 2018

Significant prepayment of health care is a crucial factor to ensure that all individuals have access to effective health services at affordable prices. The research questions we address here are as follows: What role does economic growth play in changing the level of health care prepayment? Does government's willingness to spend more on health mean higher prepayment rates in the health financing system? What are their dynamic relationships? These questions are addressed in China over the 1978 to 2014 period by employing the continuous wavelet analysis. We focus in particular on their correlations and lead‐lag relationships across different frequency bands. Our findings clearly show that overall government willingness has a positive effect on health care prepayment level, while the impact of economic growth varies in the time‐frequency domain. This variation could be demonstrated in 1980 to 1998, when the positive correlation between economic growth and health care prepayment level in the short term turned negative in the medium and long term, which indicated that China could not achieve mutual development of economic growth and social welfare within the market‐oriented health system. Notably, the time‐varying analysis indicates that China's new round of medical system reform since 2006 plays an important role in changing the correlations and lead‐lag relationships. In particular, health care prepayment tended to lead government willingness during the 2006 to 2012 period since the increase of health subsidies and expenditures strengthened government responsibility over the health sector, and there existed a persistent mutual stimulation between economic growth and health care prepayment level across all frequency bands along with the reform.
Profiles of executive functions and social skills in the transition to school: A person‐centred approach
Authors: Martarelli Corinna S. , Feurer Emanuel , Dapp Laura C. , Roebers Claudia M.
Published: October 2018

Whether a child is ready for school is of interest for different parties involved. With a person‐centred approach, the present study examined 123 kindergarteners (59 girls, 64 boys) regarding their early executive functions and social skills profiles. Children were 6–7 years of age at the first measurement point (M = 6; 6, SD = 4.22, range = 5; 8–7; 8). One year later, at the end of first grade, they were 7–8‐years old (M = 7; 6, SD = 4.11, range = 6; 9–8; 8). Four different profiles were identified. The profiles did not differ on demographic dimensions or socioeconomic status but appeared to be related to academic achievement and school adjustment at the end of the first grade 1 year later. Profiles with high executive functions showed the greatest predictive validity, independent of their social skills. However, greater social skills seemed to serve as a compensator in the profile with lower executive functions. The resulting profiles have theoretical and practical relevance, when discussing the question what a child needs to be “ready” for school.

Highlights

A person‐centered approach to children's school readiness with 123 kindergarteners.

Low executive functions can partially be compensated with high social skills. This compensation was stronger for school adjustment than for academic achievement.

Cognitive and social aspects of a child's development should be considered by teachers and practitioners.
Meta‐analysis of the association between chromosomal polymorphisms and outcomes of embryo transfer following in vitro fertilization and/or intracytoplasmic sperm injection
Authors: Ou Zhanhui , Yin Minna , Chen Zhiheng , Sun Ling
Published: October 2018

Background

The outcomes of in vitro fertilization and/or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) are contradictory among individuals with chromosomal polymorphisms.

Objectives

To assess whether chromosomal polymorphisms affect the outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies.

Search strategy

Four online databases were searched from inception to September 18, 2017, using terms including “chromosomal polymorphisms” and “In vitro fertilization.”

Selection criteria

The meta‐analysis included studies published in any language on IVF/ICSI outcomes in relation to male and/or female chromosomal polymorphisms (n=8).

Data collection and analysis

Data were extracted using a predesigned form. The IVF/ICSI outcomes were then pooled and their heterogeneity assessed.

Main results

Male chromosomal polymorphisms showed lowered values for fertilization rate (odds ratio [OR] 1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–1.54; P=0.004); cleavage rate (OR 2.65, 95% CI 1.88–3.72; P<0.001); good quality embryos rate (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.15–1.39; P<0.001); and live birth rate (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.10–1.83; P=0.007). By contrast, early spontaneous abortion rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and ongoing pregnancy rate were not affected in this group. No relationship was found between IVF/ICSI outcomes and female chromosomal polymorphisms.

Conclusions

Male, but not female, chromosomal polymorphisms were associated with lowered values for some outcomes of IVF/ICSI.
17‐allylamino‐17‐demethoxygeldanamycin impeded chemotherapy through antioxidant activation via reducing reactive oxygen species‐induced cell death
Authors: Li Yueqi , Chen Yiyang , Qiu Cen , Ma Xiaoying , Lei Kecheng , Cai Guoxiang , Liang Xin , Liu Jianwen
Published: October 2018

Hyperthermia enhances the anticancer effects of thymidylate synthase (TYMS) inhibitors (raltitrexed, RTX) and improves the precise biochemical mechanisms partially through enhancement of intracellular drug absorption. Recent research focuses on the potential anticancer drug target Heat Shock Protein 90 (HSP90), which could increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to TYMS inhibitors; however, with different HSP90 inhibitors, several research studies finally showed a poor efficacy in preclinical or clinical research. Here, we showed that 17‐allylamino‐17‐demethoxygeldanamycin (17‐AAG, HSP90 inhibitor) affects the efficacy of chemotherapy through antioxidant activation–induced resistance. In this study, we found that RTX, alone or in combination with hyperthermia, triggers reactive oxygen species (ROS) exposure and thus induces cell death. Also, the addition of hyperthermia showed more ROS exposure and function. The pharmacologic inhibition of HSP90 reversed the effects of chemotherapeutical treatments, while the overexpression of HSP90 showed no relation with these effects, which demonstrated that dysregulation of HSP90 might have a significant impact on chemotherapeutic treatments. The addition of 17‐AAG increased the activation of antioxidant with increased antioxidant enzymes, thus affecting the RTX efficacy.
Retracted: Long noncoding RNA TALNEC2 plays an oncogenic role in breast cancer by binding to EZH2 to target p57KIP2 and involving in p‐p38 MAPK and NF‐κB pathways
Authors: Qiao Enqi , Chen Daobao , Li Qinglin , Feng Weiliang , Yu Xingfei , Zhang Xiping , Xia Liang , Jin Ju , Yang Hongjian
Published: October 2018

We aimed to investigate the potential role and regulatory mechanism of long noncoding RNA tumor‐associated lncRNA expressed in chromosome 2 (TALNEC2) in breast cancer. The expression of TALNEC2 in breast cancer tissues and cells were investigated. MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells were transfected with small interfering RNA (siRNA) duplexes for targeting TALNEC2 (si‐TALNEC2), enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2; si‐EZH2) and p57KIP2 (si‐p57
KIP2), and their corresponding controls (si‐NC). The viability, colony forming ability, cell cycle, apoptosis, and autophagy of transfected cells were assessed. The expressions of p‐p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) pathway‐related proteins were investigated. The results showed that TALNEC2 was highly expressed in breast cancer tissues and cells. Knockdown of TALNEC2 significantly inhibited the malignant behaviors of MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells, including inhibiting cell viability and colony forming, arresting cell cycle at G0/G1 phase, inducing cell apoptosis, and promoting cell autophagy. EZH2 was a TALNEC2 binding protein, which was upregulated in breast cancer tissues and cells and could negatively regulate p57
KIP2. Effects of TALNEC2 knockdown on malignant behaviors of MCF‐7 cells were reversed by p57
KIP2 knockdown. The expressions of p‐p38, RelA, and RelB in MCF‐7 cells were decreased after knockdown of TALNEC2 or EZH2, which were reversed by knockdown of p57
KIP2 concurrently. In conclusion, TALNEC2 may play an oncogenic role in breast cancer by binding to EZH2 to target p57
KIP2. Activation of p‐p38 MAPK and NF‐κB pathways may be key mechanisms mediating the oncogenic role of TALNEC2 in breast cancer. TALNEC2 may serve as a promising target in the therapy of breast cancer.
JH‐4 reduces HMGB1‐mediated septic responses and improves survival rate in septic mice
Authors: Lee Wonhwa , Yuseok O , Yang Sumin , Lee Bong‐Seon , Lee Jee‐Hyun , Park Eui Kyun , Baek Moon‐Chang , Song Gyu‐Yong , Bae Jong‐Sup
Published: October 2018

Inhibition of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and restoration of endothelial integrity are emerging as attractive therapeutic strategies for the management of severe vascular inflammatory diseases. Recently, we found that JH‐4, a synthesized decursin derivative, exhibited a strong anti‐Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome by efficiently blocking progerin‐lamin A/C binding. In this study, we examined the effects of JH‐4 on HMGB1‐mediated septic responses and the survival rate in a mouse sepsis model. The anti‐inflammatory activities of JH‐4 were monitored based on its effects on lipopolysaccharide‐ or cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)‐mediated release of HMGB1. The antiseptic activities of JH‐4 were determined by measuring permeability, leukocyte adhesion, migration, and the activation of proinflammatory proteins in HMGB1‐activated human umbilical vein endothelial cells and mice. JH‐4 inhibited the release of HMGB1 and downregulated HMGB1‐dependent inflammatory responses in human endothelial cells. JH‐4 also inhibited HMGB1‐mediated hyperpermeability and leukocyte migration in mice. In addition, treatment with JH‐4 reduced CLP‐induced release of HMGB1, sepsis‐related mortality, and pulmonary injury in vivo. Our results indicate that JH‐4 is a possible therapeutic agent to treat various severe vascular inflammatory diseases via the inhibition of the HMGB1 signaling pathway.
Improved angiogenic activity of endothelial progenitor cell in diabetic patients treated with insulin plus metformin
Authors: Asadian Simin , Alibabrdel Mahdi , Daei Nazanin , Cheraghi Hadi , Maedeh Jafari Seyedeh , Noshadirad Elnaz , Jabarpour Masoome , Siavashi Vahid , Nassiri Seyed Mahdi
Published: October 2018

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is associated with an increased vascular disease. Moreover, endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) function is impaired in diabetic patients. Decreased EPC number plays a critical role in reduced endothelial repair and development of the vascular disorder. To determine the effect of metformin and insulin plus metformin on functional activity of EPCs, 130 participants were divided into three groups (group 1: healthy control; group 2: metformin; group 3: insulin plus metformin). The concentration of EPCs in the circulation was first quantified. Thereafter, circulating EPCs (cEPCs) were harvested and the biological features of these cells including proliferative, clonogenicity, tubulogenic, and migratory properties were analyzed after expansion. The serum protein levels of some proangiogenic factors were also measured. Our results showed greater numbers of cEPCs in control and in diabetic patients treated with insulin plus metformin than in metformin‐treated patients. Insulin plus metformin therapy was associated with augmented proliferative, clonogenicity, migratory, and tubulogenic activity of cEPCs in patients with T2DM. Increased serum concentrations of angiogenic factors were also observed in patients treated with insulin plus metformin. Western blot analysis showed increased protein levels of pTie‐2/Tie2 and Pakt/AKT in cEPCs harvested from T2DM, treated with insulin metformin plus. This study showed that treatment with insulin plus metformin in diabetic patients is associated with increased mobilization of EPCs into the circulation, with potential beneficial effect in vascular protection in diabetic patients.
An Fe‐Ni‐Cr embedded atom method potential for austenitic and ferritic systems
Authors: Zhou Xiaowang W. , Foster Michael E. , Sills Ryan B.
Published: October 2018

Fe‐Ni‐Cr stainless‐steels are important structural materials because of their superior strength and corrosion resistance. Atomistic studies of mechanical properties of stainless‐steels, however, have been limited by the lack of high‐fidelity interatomic potentials. Here using density functional theory as a guide, we have developed a new Fe‐Ni‐Cr embedded atom method potential. We demonstrate that our potential enables stable molecular dynamics simulations of stainless‐steel alloys at high temperatures, accurately reproduces the stacking fault energy—known to strongly influence the mode of plastic deformation (e.g., twinning vs. dislocation glide vs. cross‐slip)—of these alloys over a range of compositions, and gives reasonable elastic constants, energies, and volumes for various compositions. The latter are pertinent for determining short‐range order and solute strengthening effects. Our results suggest that our potential is suitable for studying mechanical properties of austenitic and ferritic stainless‐steels which have vast implementation in the scientific and industrial communities. Published 2018. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
A tripling construction for mutually orthogonal symmetric hamiltonian double Latin squares
Authors: Schroeder Justin Z.
Published: October 2018

We provide two new constructions for pairs of mutually orthogonal symmetric hamiltonian double Latin squares. The first is a tripling construction, and the second is derived from known constructions of hamilton cycle decompositions of when is prime.
Tumor‐derived exosomal microRNAs and proteins as modulators of macrophage function
Authors: Moradi‐Chaleshtori Maryam , Hashemi Seyed Mahmoud , Soudi Sara , Bandehpour Mojgan , Mohammadi‐Yeganeh Samira
Published: October 2018

Tumor cells are able to modify their surrounding microenvironment by transmitting bioactive molecules via exosomes. In exosomes, proteins and nucleic acids that can be taken up by surrounding cells have been identified and modulate their functions. Tumor microenvironment consists of different cells such as macrophages. Tumors‐associated macrophages (TAMs) express M2 phenotype and affect many processes including tumor initiation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. It has been demonstrated that a high number of TAMs is associated with poor prognosis of cancers. The contents of tumor‐derived exosomes such as microRNAs and proteins induce macrophages to M2‐like polarization to support tumor growth. Herein, we review the most recent studies on the effect of tumor‐derived exosomes on macrophage polarization and function in different types of cancers.
LncRNA SLC8A1‐AS1 protects against myocardial damage through activation of cGMP‐PKG signaling pathway by inhibiting SLC8A1 in mice models of myocardial infarction
Authors: Guo Gong‐Liang , Sun Li‐Qun , Sun Mei‐Hua , Xu Hai‐Ming
Published: October 2018

Extensive investigations into long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in various diseases and cancers, including acute myocardial infarction (AMI) have been conducted. The current study aimed to investigate the role of lncRNA solute carrier family 8 member A1 antisense RNA 1 (SLC8A1‐AS1) in myocardial damage by targeting solute carrier family 8 member A1 (SLC8A1) via cyclic guanosine 3′,5′‐monophosphate‐protein kinase G (cGMP‐PKG) signaling pathway in AMI mouse models. Differentially expressed lncRNA in AMI were initially screened and target relationship between lncRNA SLC8A1‐AS1 and SLC8A1 was then verified. Infarct size, levels of inflammatory factors, biochemical indicators, and the positive expression of the SLC8A1 protein in AMI were subsequently determined. The expression of SLC8A1‐AS1, SLC8A1, PKG1, PKG2, atrial natriuretic peptide, and brain natriuretic peptide was detected to assess the effect of SLC8A1‐AS1 on SLC8A1 and cGMP‐PKG. The respective contents of superoxide dismutase, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were detected accordingly. Microarray data GSE66360 provided evidence indicating that SLC8A1‐AS1 was poorly expressed in AMI. SLC8A1 was verified to be a target gene of lncRNA SLC8A1‐AS1. SLC8A1‐AS1 upregulation decreased levels of left ventricular end‐systolic diameter, −dp/
dt
max, interleukin 1β (IL‐1β), IL‐6, transforming growth factor α, nitric oxide, inducible nitric‐oxide synthase, endothelial nitric‐oxide synthase, infarct size, LDH activity and MDA content, and increased IL‐10, left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure and +
dp/
dt
max. Furthermore, the overexpression of SLC8A1‐AS1 was noted to elicit an inhibitory effect on the cGMP‐PKG signaling pathway via SLC8A1. In conclusion, lncRNA SLC8A1‐AS1, by downregulating SLC8A1 and activating the cGMP‐PKG signaling pathway, was observed to alleviate myocardial damage, inhibit the release of proinflammatory factors and reduce infarct size, ultimately protecting against myocardial damage.
Foxm1 is a critical driver of TGF‐β‐induced EndMT in endothelial cells through Smad2/3 and binds to the Snail promoter
Authors: Song Shuai , Zhang Rui , Cao Wei , Fang Guojian , Yu Yi , Wan Yi , Wang Chuanhui , Li Yigang , Wang Qunshan
Published: October 2018

Endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndMT) was first reported in heart development. Recent studies have shown that EndMT also occurs in the progression of cardiac fibrosis. Herein, we demonstrated a critical role of the Forkhead Box M1 (Foxm1) transcription factor in transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β)‐induced EndMT in endothelial cells (ECs) and a possible underlying molecular mechanism. Foxm1 was induced in ECs following TGF‐β stimulation. Using both pharmacological and molecular approaches to inhibit Foxm1 function can attenuate the TGF‐β‐induced EndMT and cell migration. In contrast, lentivirus‐mediated overexpression of Foxm1 allowed EndMT to proceed despite the absence of TGF‐β in ECs. Moreover, we found that the activation of the Smad2/3 signaling pathway and EndMT‐related transcription factors played important roles in the pathogenesis of Foxm1‐mediated EndMT. Further analysis revealed that Foxm1 bound to and increased the promoter activity of the Snail gene encoding a critical transcriptional regulator of EndMT. In conclusion, our results identify FOXM1 as a driver of TGF‐β‐induced EndMT and underscore the therapeutic potential of targeting FOXM1 for cardiac fibrosis.
Regioselectivity in the Reaction of 2‐Aminobenzothiazoles and 2‐Aminobenzimidazoles with Enaminonitriles and Enaminones: Synthesis of Functionally Substituted Pyrimido[2,1‐b][1,3]benzothiazole and Pyrimido[1,2‐a]benzimidazole Derivatives
Authors: Alnajjar Abdulaziz , Abdelkhalik Mervat Mohammed , Riad Hossam Mohammed , Sayed Samia Mohammed , Sadek Kamal Usef
Published: October 2018

A variety of new polyfunctionally substituted benzo[d]pyrimido[2,1‐b][1,3]thiazole and benzo[4,5]imidazo[1,2‐a]pyrimidine derivatives have been synthesized. The general synthetic procedure used for this purpose involves the condensation of 2‐aminobenzothiazole and 2‐aminobenzimidazole with a variety of enaminonitriles, enaminones, and acrylaldehyde. The regioselectivity for initial attack of either endocyclic ring nitrogen or exocyclic amino group was studied and rationalized for. It has been concluded that ring nitrogen is the most reactive cite in acidic medium, and cyclic intermediate can also be isolated, attesting to this conclusion upon cyclization. However, in basic or neutral medium, the exocyclic amino group was found to be the most reactive center. All structures of the newly synthesized compounds were elucidated by elemental analysis, spectral data, and alternative synthetic route whenever possible.
Pyrrolidine‐containing or Piperazine‐containing Nitrofuranylamides: Design, Synthesis, and In Vitro Anti‐mycobacterial Activities
Authors: Zhao Shi‐Jia , Lv Zao‐Sheng , Deng Jia‐Lun , Zhang Guang‐De , Xu Zhi
Published: October 2018

We report herein the design, synthesis, and in vitro anti‐mycobacterial activities of 11 pyrrolidine‐containing or piperazine‐containing nitrofuranylamides. Results revealed that all derivatives 3a–k endowed with excellent activity [minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC): <0.016–0.482 μg/mL] against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) H37Rv strain and more than half of them were more potent than the first‐line anti‐tuberculosis agents isoniazid (MIC: 0.078 μg/mL) and rifampicin (MIC: 0.078 μg/mL). The most active six derivatives were further evaluated against two clinically isolated multidrug‐resistant MTB strains resistant to both of isoniazid and rifampicin. In particular, four of them 3a, 3c, 3d, and 3j (MIC: 1.412–3.230 μg/mL) showed promising activity against the two clinically isolated multidrug‐resistant MTB strains and could act as starting points for further investigation.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Methyl 2‐(2‐(2‐Arylquinazolin‐4‐yl)sulfanyl)acetylamino Alkanoates
Authors: Megahed M. I. , Fathalla W.
Published: October 2018

A series of methyl 2‐(2‐(2‐arylquinazolin‐4‐yl)sulfanyl)acetylamino alkanoates have been developed on the basis of the S‐chemoselective reaction of 2‐arylquinazolin‐4(3H)‐thione with ethyl chloroacetate and N,N′‐dicyclohexylcarbodiimide coupling method with amino acid ester hydrochloride. The precursor 2‐arylquinazolin‐4(3H)‐thione was prepared by a new thiation method from 2‐arylquinazolin‐4(3H)‐one by a two‐step reaction that includes chlorination and then the reaction with N‐cyclohexyldithiocarbamate cyclohexyl ammonium salt. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized compounds was tested in vitro via paper‐disc agar‐plate method against two bacterial strains Gram‐positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Gram‐negative bacteria Escherichia coli and a pathogenic yeast Candida albicans. Most synthesized compounds showed remarkable antibacterial activity against E. coli overpassing the standard reference antibiotics applied: tetracycline, erythromycin, and novobiocin. On the other hand, most synthesized compounds gave moderate antifungal activity against pathogenic yeast C. albicans.
An Efficient Method for the One‐pot Synthesis of 4‐Phenyl‐hydrazinyl Thiazole Derivatives Using Nano‐SiO2
Authors: Gholami Sahar , Mokhtary Masoud
Published: October 2018

One‐pot synthesis of 4‐phenyl‐hydrazinyl thiazole derivatives was developed by three‐component reaction of various ketones, phenacyl chloride, and thiosemicarbazid in the presence of nano‐SiO2 in ethanol at reflux conditions. The products formed in excellent yields over short reaction times under an environmentally friendly condition.
C1q/TNF‐related protein 9: A novel therapeutic target in ischemic stroke?
Authors: Yang Cui , Fan Fan , Sawmiller Darrell , Tan Jun , Wang Qingsong , Xiang Yang
Published: October 2018

Ischemic stroke has become a serious public health problem, which is in need of advanced research on the prevention and treatment. As a newly discovered adipokine, C1q/TNF‐related protein 9 (CTRP9) plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of coronary atherosclerosis disease (CAD), including regulating energy metabolism, modulating vasomotion, protecting endothelial cells, inhibiting platelet activation, inhibiting pathological vascular remodeling, stabilizing atherosclerotic plaques, and protecting heart. The present review raised a critical question of whether CTRP9 could also have the capacity of protecting the brain tissue and decreasing the severity of brain lesions in the ischemic stroke since CAD and ischemic stroke are both the major subtypes of atherosclerotic vascular diseases which share a large of common pathogenesis in the vascular lesion particularly. Therefore, we proposed that CTRP9 could be a feasible biomarker and potential therapeutic target in ischemic stroke on the basis of the reviewed research reports.
Two facets of conscientiousness and the knowledge sharing dilemmas in the workplace: Contrasting moderating functions of supervisor support and coworker support
Authors: Chae Heesun , Park Jisung , Choi Jin Nam
Published: October 2018

This study adopts self‐ and other‐centered approaches to explain how the two facets of conscientiousness (i.e., dutifulness and achievement striving) distinctly resolve knowledge sharing dilemmas among employees. It also explores how the critical social surroundings of employees (i.e., supervisor support and coworker support) neutralize or activate the effects of dutifulness and achievement striving on knowledge‐sharing behavior. Our analysis of the data collected from 150 employee–supervisor dyads corroborates that the other‐centered facet of conscientiousness (dutifulness) is positively related to knowledge‐sharing behavior, whereas the self‐centered facet (achievement striving) is negatively related to the same behavior. The analysis also affirms that the positive effect of dutifulness and the negative effect of achievement striving on knowledge sharing are strengthened when supervisor support is low and coworker support is high. This study offers theoretical and practical implications relevant to knowledge management in organizations, distinct roles of facet‐specific personalities toward knowledge sharing, and contrasting personality–situation interactions by situation strength and trait activation in shaping employee behavior.
Future patterns of world growth
Authors: Floyd David , Rahman Mizan
Published: October 2018

Many factors are leading to improved world economic growth but under certain limiting conditions.
Why might US threats of protectionism have limited consequences for the further expansion of the global economy?
Authors: Floyd David
Published: October 2018

Protectionism is the main risk for the global economy. This article sets out to examine the current developments in global trade and the specific trade policies being adopted by major trading nations. Evidence would suggest that global ties have come a considerable way since the initial promotion of trade through the International Monetary Fund and US at the start of the post war period. The rising growth in the Asian and Far East economy and other emerging markets is also playing its part in supporting the process.
After Brexit: Rethinking the structure of the UK economy and its branding strategies
Authors: Ardley Barry
Published: October 2018

Brexit is currently making the economic climate uncertain. It will have an impact on the economic health of the UK economy and its products may suffer as consequence. It presents conditions for engendering both the positive and negative features of a falling currency. Associated with Brexit is the possibility of negative customer brand perceptions, a result of the UK country of origin effect. This raises the issue of considering alternative strategic routes to growth.
Acid Precipitation versus Solvent Extraction: Two Techniques Leading to Different Lactone/Acidic Sophorolipid Ratios
Authors: Zulkifli Wan Nur Fatihah Wan Muhammad , Razak Nurul Nadhirah Abdul , Yatim Abdul Rashid M. , Hayes Douglas G.
Published: October 2018

Sophorolipids (SL) prepared from biotransformation of refined bleached deodorized (RBD) palm olein by Starmerella bombicola (ATCC 22214) occur as a mixture of homologs. Characterization of SL was performed using high‐performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry detection (HPLC‐ESI‐MS) under negative ion mode. Two different purification methods were compared: precipitation and solvent extraction. SL purified by precipitation and solvent extraction consisted of five major homologs with m/z values of 687, 645, 689, 705, and 661. The fractions of lactone and acidic SL via precipitation were 70.24 ± 1.4% and 29.76 ± 1.4%, respectively. SL isolated by solvent extraction contained 44.78 ± 1.9% lactone and 55.22 ± 1.9% acidic SL. Therefore, the purification method strongly impacted the composition of the SL products.
Incidence and risk factors for abdominal occult metastatic disease in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: Gemenetzis Georgios , Groot Vincent P. , Blair Alex B. , Ding Ding , Thakker Sameer S. , Fishman Elliot K. , Cameron John L. , Makary Martin A. , Weiss Matthew J. , Wolfgang Christopher L. , He Jin
Published: October 2018

Background

The incidence of occult metastatic disease (OMD) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and associated risk factors are largely unknown.

Methods

We identified all patients with PDAC, who had an aborted oncologic operation due to OMD within a 10‐year period. The cases were matched to a cohort of resected PDAC patients on a 1:3 ratio, based on age and sex, for comparison of preoperative clinical characteristics and potential risk factors for OMD.

Results

In the studied period, 117 patients with OMD were identified in 1423 pancreatectomies performed for PDAC (8%). Liver metastases were the most common finding (79%) followed by peritoneal implants (16%). When compared with non‐OMD cases, patients with OMD presented more often with abdominal pain (P < 0.001), and higher preoperative carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA 19‐9) values (
P = 0.007). Additionally, indeterminate liver lesions on preoperative computed tomography (CT) were identified in 40% of OMD versus 17% of non‐OMD patients (
P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis distinguished four independent predictors for OMD: indeterminate lesions on preoperative CT, tumor size > 30 mm, abdominal pain, and preoperative CA 19‐9 > 192 U/mL.

Conclusions

Occurrence of OMD in PDAC accounts for 8% of cases. Preoperative CA 19‐9 > 192 U/mL, primary tumor size > 30 mm, and identification of indeterminate lesions in preoperative CT may indicate the need for diagnostic laparoscopy.
Communities of practice in healthcare: A framework for managing knowledge sharing in operations
Authors: Jørgensen Rasmus , Scarso Enrico , Edwards Kasper , Ipsen Christine
Published: October 2018

Communities of practice (CoPs) have been adopted by several industries, in particular healthcare, and researchers have proposed explanatory frameworks and guidelines for development. However, first‐line managers are left with sparse research‐based advice on how to develop CoP due to a lack of empirical studies from operations. In response, this paper proposes and tests a framework for intentional development of CoPs in healthcare operations. The proposed framework is structured in six steps, which incorporate seven factors for CoP development as identified in the literature. A double case study test demonstrates that the proposed framework can be applied to develop CoPs within operations, resulting in knowledge sharing between CoP participants, creation of new knowledge, and improvement of practice. In particular, the tests find the following steps to be especially crucial for CoP development: An introduction to the manager of the functions and benefits of CoPs to ensure resource allocation (e.g., time to participate and a meeting room), choosing a practice with relevance for manager and employees, appointing a coordinator, and inviting employees to participate voluntarily. This paper contributes to CoP theory with explanations of how and why specific actions develop CoP within operations. The contribution to practitioners is a step‐by‐step framework to intentionally develop CoPs within operations to improve knowledge sharing and practice improvement.
The impact of the presence of biased managers as strategic commitment on endogenous market structures
Authors: Nakamura Yasuhiko
Published: October 2018

We consider the endogenous selection of strategic contracts in an asymmetric duopoly with substitutable goods. The market includes a biased manager, in terms of the market size the manager expects, in a managerial duopoly with separation between ownership and management. In particular, we focus on how the types of managers selected by owners affect the equilibrium market structures. Furthermore, by considering that each manager's expectation of market size depends on their own type and the type of the rival manager, we examine a situation in which the owner is less certain of the type of manager.
Recurrent branch of anterior interosseous artery perforator‐based propeller flap for distal forearm injuries: Report of 2 cases
Authors: Hamada Ryusho , Shinaoka Akira , Sugiyama Narushi , Watanabe Toshiyuki , Miura Yuki , Kimata Yoshihiro
Published: October 2018

Despite various options for the reconstruction of soft tissue defects in the distal forearm, perforator‐based propeller flap is rarely used. Here, we presented 2 cases of distal forearm injuries that were repaired using the recurrent branch of anterior interosseous artery perforator‐based propeller flap. Patients in these cases were 57 and 67 years of age. Wounds resulting from farming machine injury and pyogenic extensor tenosynovitis following cat bite wounds were localized to the distal forearm and dorsum of the hand. Defect dimensions were 5 cm × 10 cm and 5 cm × 8 cm. The 12 cm × 7 cm and 21 cm × 4 cm sized recurrent branch of anterior interosseous artery perforator‐based propeller flap was designed adjacent to the wounds. In the latter case, the absence of the posterior interosseous artery in the distal forearm was observed. One perforator from the recurrent branch of the anterior interosseous artery emerged through the septum between the extensor digiti minimi and extensor carpi ulnaris 7.5 cm and 6.0 cm proximal to the ulnar head in cases 1 and 2, respectively. Perforators were identified using multidetector computed tomographic angiography and handheld Doppler. Extending to two‐thirds or almost the full length of the forearm, the flaps were raised and rotated by 90° and 120° to cover the defect. The donor sites were closed using free skin graft. Both flaps survived. Except for minor wound dehiscence and hemarthrosis, no other postoperative complications occurred. Patients returned to work or daily activities at 3‐ and 4‐month follow‐up after surgery.
Axonal supercharged interpositional jump‐graft with a hybrid artificial nerve conduit containing adipose‐derived stem cells in facial nerve paresis rat model
Authors: Kamei Wataru , Matsumine Hajime , Osaki Hironobu , Ueta Yoshifumi , Tsunoda Satoshi , Shimizu Mari , Hashimoto Kazuki , Niimi Yosuke , Miyata Mariko , Sakurai Hiroyuki
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Interpositional jump‐graft (IPJG) technique with the hypoglossal nerve for supercharging can be applied in a facial nerve paresis case. In IPJG, an autologous nerve is required, and the donor site morbidity is unavoidable. Biodegradable nerve conduits are made from polyglycolic acid (PGA) and used recently without donor site complications after providing autologous grafts. Hybrid artificial nerve conduits with adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs) also attract attention as a nerve‐regeneration enhancing agent. This study examined the effect of hybrid artificial nerve conduit on IPJG.

Materials and methods

A total of 34 Lewis rats were used and divided into 4 groups by the bridge materials: autograft (n = 8), PGA nerve conduit (n = 8), hybrid PGA nerve conduit with ASCs (n = 8), and the nontreated control groups (n = 8). ASCs were collected from 2 rats and cultured. The animals were assessed physiologically and histopathologically at 13 weeks after surgery.

Results

In compound muscle action potential, the amplitude of hybrid PGA group (3,222 ± 1,779 μV) was significantly higher than that of PGA group (1,961 ± 445 μV, P < .05), and no significant difference between hybrid PGA and autograft group. All treated groups showed a myelinated nerve regeneration with double innervation in hypoglossal and facial nerve nuclei for vibrissal muscle.

Conclusion

This study showed the effectiveness of IPJG with a hybrid PGA conduit especially in physiological examination.