bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiphospholipid syndrome characteristics and adverse pregnancy outcomes after 20 weeks of pregnancy
Authors: Gabbay‐Benziv Rinat , Zafrir‐Danieli Hadas , Blickstein Dorit , Shmueli Anat , Salman Lina , Hadar Eran
Published: April 2018

Objective

To assess outcomes after 20 weeks of pregnancy according to autoantibody profile and clinical presentation of maternal antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Methods

The present retrospective cohort analysis included women diagnosed with APS at a tertiary medical center in Israel between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2016. Anticardiolipin antibodies, anti‐β2‐glycoprotein antibodies, and lupus anticoagulant were assessed. Participants were stratified by type of APS (obstetric vs thrombotic), antibody profile, and antibody titer (low vs high). Primary composite outcomes were rated as severe (stillbirth, fetal growth restriction at <34 weeks, severe pre‐eclampsia, or delivery at <32 weeks) and mild (stillbirth, any fetal growth restriction, any pre‐eclampsia, or delivery at <34 weeks).

Results

A total of 99 women were included in the analysis. The primary composite outcomes were similar regardless of stratification. Lupus anticoagulant positivity was associated with delivery before 37 weeks. When compared with low antibody titer, high antibody titer was associated delivery at or before 32 weeks (P=0.045) and 34 weeks (P=0.029).

Conclusion

High antibody titer might be associated with an increased risk of severe prematurity among pregnant women with APS.
MiR‐490‐3p inhibits autophagy via targeting ATG7 in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ou Yingliang , He Jiafa , Liu Yubin
Published: April 2018

The miR‐490‐3p was transfected into HepG2 cells to explore the correlation between miR‐490‐3p and hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy and its downstream target gene ATG7. Then we could possibly provide a mechanism for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. MiR‐490‐3p was screened out by fold change > 4 and P < 0.01 using gene microarray data. The expression level of miR‐490‐3p was tested by qRT‐PCR and the prognosis analysis was achieved by using TCGA data. The cell proliferation was tested via colony formation assay and CCK‐8 after the miR‐490‐3p mimics were transfected into HepG2 cells; the variations of cell cycle and apoptosis was examined by flow cytometry assay; the number of autophagosome was observed by electron microscopy and the changes of autophagy‐relative protein LC‐II and LC‐I as well as their ratio was tested by western blot. MiR‐490‐3p is low expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines and tissues. The results of TCGA showed that miR‐490‐3p high expression indicated better prognosis. After HepG2 cells were transfected with miR‐490‐3p mimics, cell viability was increased, cell proliferation was enhanced, cell cycle was blocked in G0/G1 phase, cell apoptosis rate was increased, the number of autophagosomes was reduced, autophagy‐associated protein LC‐II was decreased, and LC‐I was increased and their ratio was decreased. After 3‐MA was added, cell proliferation was declined, cell apoptosis rate was increased. Besides, the autophagy was inhibited by knocking down the ATG7, which promoted the cell apoptosis. MiR‐490‐3p could suppress cell proliferation, retard cell cycle and upgrade cell apoptosis by inhibiting autophagy in HCC cells via targeting ATG7. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(6):468–478, 2018
Machine learning‐based in‐line holographic sensing of unstained malaria‐infected red blood cells
Authors: Go Taesik , Kim Jun H. , Byeon Hyeokjun , Lee Sang J.
Published: April 2018

Accurate and immediate diagnosis of malaria is important for medication of the infectious disease. Conventional methods for diagnosing malaria are time consuming and rely on the skill of experts. Therefore, an automatic and simple diagnostic modality is essential for healthcare in developing countries that lack the expertise of trained microscopists. In the present study, a new automatic sensing method using digital in‐line holographic microscopy (DIHM) combined with machine learning algorithms was proposed to sensitively detect unstained malaria‐infected red blood cells (iRBCs). To identify the RBC characteristics, 13 descriptors were extracted from segmented holograms of individual RBCs. Among the 13 descriptors, 10 features were highly statistically different between healthy RBCs (hRBCs) and iRBCs. Six machine learning algorithms were applied to effectively combine the dominant features and to greatly improve the diagnostic capacity of the present method. Among the classification models trained by the 6 tested algorithms, the model trained by the support vector machine (SVM) showed the best accuracy in separating hRBCs and iRBCs for training (n = 280, 96.78%) and testing sets (n = 120, 97.50%). This DIHM‐based artificial intelligence methodology is simple and does not require blood staining. Thus, it will be beneficial and valuable in the diagnosis of malaria.
Fabrication of superparamagnetic nanofibrous poly(l‐lactic acid)/γ‐Fe2O3 microspheres for cell carriers
Authors: Qu Moyuan , Xiao Wenqian , Tian Jiarong , Wang Song , Li Hong , Liu Xue , Yang Xiaoling , Li Bo , Liao Xiaoling
Published: April 2018

Nanofibrous poly(l‐lactic acid) (PLLA) microspheres are extensively studied to be used as cell carriers in the field of tissue engineering because the unique structure can promote cell proliferation and migration. But as injectable scaffold materials, PLLA microspheres easily run off to the soft tissue space because of the lack of cohesive force. It will affect the treatment efficiency and even cause additional inflammatory response. In order to overcome this disadvantage, superparamagnetic γ‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles assisted with oxidative polymerization of dopamine were used for surface modification of PLLA microspheres in this study. The results showed that this surface modification had no obvious cytotoxicity, and the modified microspheres possessed the ability to carry seed cells to controllably move to the defect sites with the guidance of magnetic field, which may be able to increase the repair efficiency. Moreover, the characteristic nanofibrous structure was not destroyed after modification, which was able to promote biological activity of cells. This work provides a novel way to produce superparamagnetic nanofibrous microspheres designed for cell microcarriers. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 511–520, 2019.
Scoliosis in Fibrous Dysplasia/McCune-Albright Syndrome: Factors Associated With Curve Progression and Effects of Bisphosphonates
Authors: Berglund Jason A , Tella Sri Harsha , Tuthill Kaitlyn F , Kim Lauren , Guthrie Lori C , Paul Scott M , Stanton Robert , Collins Michael T , Boyce Alison M
Published: April 2018

Scoliosis is a complication of fibrous dysplasia/McCune-Albright syndrome (FD/MAS); however, risk factors and long-term outcomes are unknown. Bisphosphonates are commonly used; however, it is unknown whether their use decrease the risk of progressive scoliosis. Clinical data from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) cohort study was reviewed. Cobb angles were measured, and variables associated with scoliosis progression were identified. Of 138 subjects with available radiographs, 84 (61%) had scoliosis, including 55 (65%) classified as mild (Cobb angle >10 to ≤30 degrees), 11 (13%) as moderate (>30 to ≤45 degrees), and 18 (22%) as severe (>45 degrees). Total skeletal disease burden was highly associated with scoliosis severity (p < 0.0001). Endocrinopathies associated with scoliosis included fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23)-mediated hypophosphatemia (p < 0.001) and hyperthyroidism (p < 0.001). Bone turnover markers, including osteocalcin and NTX-telopeptides, were associated with severe scoliosis (p < 0.01). Associations were identified between Cobb angle and functional metrics, including leg length discrepancy (p < 0.01), hip range of motion (p < 0.05), and strength of the gluteus medius and maximus (p < 0.01). Longitudinal analyses were conducted in 69 subjects who had serial radiographs over a median 4.9-year period (range, 0.9 to 14.7 years). Twenty-two subjects were treated with bisphosphonates; there was no difference in Cobb angle progression compared to untreated subjects (0.10 versus 0.53 degrees/year, p = 0.36). Longitudinal data was available for 10 of 12 subjects treated with spinal fusion; one had instrumentation failure, but in nine subjects Cobb angles were stable with 6.1 years of follow-up (range, 0.9 to 14.7 years). Two fatalities from scoliosis-associated restrictive lung disease occurred in subjects managed non-operatively. Scoliosis occurs frequently in patients with polyostotic FD, and may be potentially fatal. The primary risk factor for progressive scoliosis is total skeletal disease burden. Treatable features that contribute to scoliosis progression include leg length discrepancy, FGF23-mediated hypophosphatemia, and hyperthyroidism. Current data do not support routine use of bisphosphonates to prevent progression of spinal curvature. Spinal fusion is frequently effective in providing long-term stability, and may be lifesaving. Published 2018. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Relationship between C‐reactive protein/albumin ratio and coronary artery disease severity in patients with stable angina pectoris
Authors: Karabağ Yavuz , Çağdaş Metin , Rencuzogullari Ibrahim , Karakoyun Süleyman , Artaç İnanç , İliş Doğan , Atalay Eray , Yesin Mahmut , Gürsoy Mustafa Ozan , Halil Tanboğa Ibrahim
Published: April 2018

Background

Syntax score (SS), which is an angiographic tool used in grading the complexity of coronary artery disease (CAD), has prognostic importance in coronary artery disease (CAD) and provides important information regarding selection of revascularization strategy. C‐reactive protein (CRP) and albumin are indicators of inflammation, and high levels of them are associated with high SS. We aimed to investigate whether baseline CRP to albumin ratio C‐Reactive Protein/Albumin Ratio (CAR), an easily available and novel inflammatory marker, is associated with SS.

Method

A total 403 consecutive patients with stabile angina pectoris, who underwent coronary angiography for suspected CAD from January 2015 to June 2016, were classified into two groups, low SS (≤22) and intermediate‐high SS (>22).

Results

C‐Reactive Protein/Albumin Ratio was significantly higher in patients with intermediate‐high SS group (P < .001). In multivariate regression analysis, CAR remained an independent predictor of intermediate‐high SS group together with hypertension and LDL. The predictive performance of CAR, CRP, and albumin was compared by ROC curve analysis. CAR surpassed CRP and albumin in predicting intermediate‐high SS group. CAR >6.3 predicted an intermediate‐high SS with sensitivity and specificity of 86.8% and 43.4%, respectively.

Conclusion

C‐Reactive Protein/Albumin Ratio was more tightly associated with the complexity and severity of CAD than CRP and albumin alone and was found to be an independent predictor for intermediate‐high SS group.
Role of miRNAs in lung cancer
Authors: Uddin Arif , Chakraborty Supriyo
Published: April 2018

Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer‐related deaths all over the world, among both men and women, with an incidence of over 200,000 new cases per year coupled with a very high mortality rate. LC comprises of two major clinicopathological categories: small‐cell (SCLC) and nonsmall‐cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). The microRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs, usually 18–25 nucleotides long, which repress protein translation through binding to complementary target mRNAs. The miRNAs regulate many biological processes including cell cycle regulation, cellular growth, proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, metabolism, neuronal patterning, and aging. This review summarizes the role of miRNAs expression in LC. It also provides information about the miRNAs as biomarker and therapeutic target for lung cancer. Understanding the role of miRNAs in LC may provide insights into the diagnosis and treatment strategy for LC.
Structural investigations on green culms and charcoal of Bambusa multiplex
Authors: Yordsri Visittapong , Thanachayanont Chanchana , Junin Chabaiporn , Kawasaki Masahiro , Asahina Shunsuke , Oikawa Tetsuo , Saiki Atsushi , Nobuchi Tadashi , Shiojiri Makoto
Published: April 2018

Green culms of Bambusa multiplex and the bamboo charcoal carbonized from the green culms at 700°C have been studied by means of X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray fluorescent element analysis, analytical scanning electron microscopy, and analytical scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), aiming at industrial applications as raw materials for functional devices and substances. It is revealed that the green culms and the charcoal contain a significant amount of Si, in particular, ∼18 wt % in the skin. The green culms comprise amorphous and crystalline celluloses. The charcoal has a so‐called amorphous structure which is composed of randomly distributed carbon nanotubes and fibers. The growth of Ag‐doped activated charcoal powders that were produced by two different methods using this charcoal powder has also been studied.
Peltate trichomes on biogenic silvery leaves of Elaeagnus umbellata
Authors: Kim Ki Woo
Published: April 2018

External and internal features of Elaeagnus umbellata leaves were investigated by optical and electron microscopy. The adaxial (upper) and abaxial (lower) leaf surfaces appeared green and silver in color, respectively. There were peltate trichomes on both the adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces. The peltate trichomes were 200–300 μm in diameter and shield or umbrella‐shaped. They had a central dome and 20–30 radiating rays that were fused to form a circular cap in the center and tapered at the end. The density of peltate trichomes was apparently higher on the abaxial leaf surface than on the adaxial leaf surface. At least two layers of peltate trichomes were commonly observed on the abaxial leaf surface. The epidermal cells on the abaxial leaf surface had convex lens‐like shape in cross sections. No distinct chloroplasts were found in the cytoplasm of peltate trichomes. These results suggest that the silver coloration on the abaxial leaf surface is mostly due to structural coloration associated with the profuse overlapping peltate trichomes having a circular cap of radially fused rays. The shrub did not show any pigmentary cellular features associated with the silver coloration. With the silvery leaves as a reflective surface for shaded leaves in canopy, E. umbellata is likely to adapt to the harsh non‐native light‐demanding environments.
Design, Synthesis, and Docking Studies of Novel Dimethyl Triazene Incorporated Thiazolyl Pyrazolines for Anticancer Activity
Authors: Ravula Parameshwar , Vamaraju Harinadha Babu , Paturi Manichandrika , Bodige Srinu , Gulipalli Kali Charan , Narendra Sharath Chandra J. N.
Published: April 2018

A novel series of dimethyl triazene incorporated thiazolyl pyrazolines have been designed on the basis of hybridization and also in support with combi‐targeting approach. The designed compounds were synthesized through facile synthetic methods, and the compounds were confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, MS, and elemental analysis. Further, compounds were screened for in vitro anticancer activity against human breast cancer (MCF‐7) and human colon cancer (HT‐29) cell lines by MTT assay. Among all the tested compounds, compound 9b showed highest activity against both the cell lines in comparison with reference drug, Cisplatin. In addition, the synthesized compounds were docked into VEGFR‐2 kinase (PDB code: 2XIR) to explore their binding interactions at the active site. The compounds showed essential key interactions as that of known VEGFR‐2 inhibitors, and hence, the synthesized compounds may be considered as molecular scaffolds for anticancer activity.
In‐house validation and small‐scale collaborative study to evaluate analytical performances of multimycotoxin screening methods based on liquid chromatography–high‐resolution mass spectrometry: Case study on Fusarium toxins in wheat
Authors: Ciasca Biancamaria , Pascale Michelangelo , Altieri Valerio Guido , Longobardi Francesco , Suman Michele , Catellani Dante , Lattanzio Veronica M.T.
Published: April 2018

A strong trend toward using highly selective mass spectrometry technologies for screening of multiple mycotoxins has been observed in recent years. In the present study, the process of validation of a multimycotoxin screening method based on liquid chromatography–high‐resolution mass spectrometry method is presented. The method was intended for the simultaneous screening of the major Fusarium toxins (deoxynivalenol, 3‐ and 15‐acetyl deoxynivalenol, T‐2 and HT‐2 toxins, zearalenone, enniatins A, A1, B, and B1, and beauvericin) in wheat. The sample preparation protocol was based on a double extraction (methanol followed by acetonitrile/water mixture) and purification through solid‐phase extraction C18 column. To provide insights for full exploitation of the potential of the double‐stage high‐resolution mass spectrometry detection, a full‐scan acquisition event followed by a sequence of 5 fragmentation events (variable data‐independent acquisition) was set for mycotoxin detection, the latter to be exploited for confirmatory purposes. Method analytical performances were evaluated through in‐house validation and small‐scale interlaboratory study, designed according to Commission Regulation 519/2014/EU, setting performance requirements for screening methods for mycotoxins. Screening target concentrations were close to European Union maximum permitted or indicative levels. The in‐house validation provided the precision of the response under repeatability conditions and the intermediate precision (both resulting lower than 30%), the cutoff value, and the rate of false suspect results for negative (free of the mycotoxin of interest) samples, which resulted lower than 0.1% in all cases. The collaborative study provided reproducibility and laboratory independent cutoff values. Analysis of reference materials proved method trueness and suitability for screening of the major Fusarium mycotoxins in wheat. Finally, the applicability of the full‐scan/variable data‐independent acquisition detection approach was successfully tested on a set of naturally contaminated wheat samples, where 2 characteristic product ions could be detected for all identified mycotoxins even at levels in the low μg/kg range.
Whole genomic analysis of human G8P[14] group A rotavirus detected from community gastroenteritis outbreak
Authors: Mori Kohji , Nakazawa Haruyuki , Hase Shinichi , Nagano Miyuki , Kimoto Kana , Oda Mayuko , Somura Yoshiko , Akiba Tetsuya , Hayashi Yukinao , Shinkai Takayuki , Sadamasu Kenji
Published: April 2018

Several suspected cases of zoonotic transmission of group A rotavirus (RVA)‐related gastroenteritis were reported previously. In August 2012, G8P[14] RVA was detected in fecal specimens from a community gastroenteritis outbreak occurring during a school trip. In this study, additional analyses were performed and it was found that this strain had the G8‐P[14]‐I2‐R2‐C2‐M2‐A3‐N2‐T6‐E2‐H3 sequence, similar to bovine‐like RVA strains. Some contamination by emesis and diarrheic feces was observed near a rest room in the lodging area. Contact history with animals was unknown in members of this school trip, and this case implied that the strain may have acquired the ability for person‐to‐person transmission.
Raman spectroscopy of the photosensitive pigment Prussian blue
Authors: Moretti Giulia , Gervais Claire
Published: April 2018

Prussian blue is a pigment highly sensitive to electromagnetic radiation, visible light included. This photosensitivity, associated with a complex redox behavior, causes a vulnerability even to Raman lasers, with the possibility of sample alteration or irreversible damage. In this study, we systematically explored the influence of the laser wavelength and laser power on different types of Prussian blue pigments, soluble and insoluble. The use of different laser wavelengths does not influence the position of the characteristic peak, though it affects the signal‐to‐noise ratio. The latter can be improved by increasing the number of accumulations and/or the acquisition time. Furthermore, we evaluated a safe level of Raman laser excitation or “safe zone” with laser power between 0.005 and 0.06 mW, where Raman analysis can be performed without laser‐induced artifacts or damage for the sample. These artifacts may affect the characteristic spectral signature of the two different Prussian blue, leading to a wrong identification of the pigments. Moreover, artifacts can also hide features arisen from fading in objects presenting non‐visible alterations of Prussian blue.
Protective effects of resveratrol against high ambient temperature‐induced spleen dysplasia in broilers through modulating splenic redox status and apoptosis
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Chen Kaikai , Zhao Xiaohui , Geng Zhaoyu
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

Resveratrol has been shown to prevent high ambient temperature (HT)‐induced spleen dysplasia, but the mechanisms of action are not clear. This study aims to examine the hypothesis that HT‐induced spleen dysplasia may be associated with HT‐induced oxidative stress and apoptosis, and resveratrol may activate the nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway, thus reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis.

RESULTS

Results showed that HT caused spleen dysplasia in broilers, reflecting the lower relative weight of the spleen (P < 0.05). Compared with birds in a normal ambient temperature group, birds in the HT group exhibited higher (P < 0.05) malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PC), 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) and Bcl‐2 associated X protein (Bax) content, higher Bax, caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 mRNA levels, and caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 activity, and a higher Bax/B‐cell lympoma/leukemia‐2 (Bcl‐2) ratio, but they exhibited lower (P < 0.05) glutathione (GSH) and Bcl‐2 content, and lower Nrf2, glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), MnSOD, heme oxygenase 1, glutathione reductase (GR) and Bcl‐2 mRNA levels, and lower total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC), T‐SOD and catalase and maganese superoixide dismutase (CAT) activity, indicating HT‐induced oxidative stress and apoptosis. Compared with birds in the HT group, birds in the HT + Res group exhibited higher (P < 0.05) GSH and Bcl‐2 content, higher Nrf2, CAT, MnSOD, GR and Bcl‐2 mRNA levels, and higher T‐AOC, T‐SOD and CAT activity, but lower (P < 0.05) MDA content, and Bax and caspase‐3 mRNA levels, lower caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 activities, and Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio, indicating that resveratrol activated the Nrf2 signaling pathway and decreased apoptosis in the spleen.

CONCLUSION

Resveratrol was effective in ameliorating HT‐induced spleen dysplasia in broilers through the activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway, thereby decreasing apoptosis, suggesting that resveratrol may offer a potential nutritional strategy to protect against some HT‐induced detriments. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Social representations of genetically modified foods and public willingness to consume such foods in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Mei‐Fang
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

Genetically modified (GM) foods have received substantial attention in recent years for being associated with unnaturalness, untrustworthiness, moral considerations, uncertainty, unhealthiness, and risks. This study highlighted the relevance of how social representations of genetically modified (GM) foods influence the Taiwanese public's willingness to consume GM foods.

RESULTS

Moderated regression analysis results revealed that the social representation dimensions of adherence to technology and food as a necessity positively influenced the public's willingness to consume GM foods; however, the dimension of resistance to and suspicion of novelties had a negative influence. Food technology neophobia played a role in predicting people's willingness to consume GM foods and exerted moderating effects to enhance the negative relationship between the respondents' resistance to and suspicion of novelties and their willingness to consume GM foods. This neophobia also changed the positive relationship between food as a necessity and willingness to consume GM foods into negative. One‐way ANOVA results revealed that food technology neophobia influences the public's specific social representations of GM foods, personal domain‐specific innovativeness, and willingness to consume GM foods.

CONCLUSION

Innovations in the food industry exhibit a high market failure rate partially because of the phenomenon known as food technology neophobia, which refers to rejection of new or unfamiliar foods. The findings of this empirical study can facilitate the development of a clearer understanding of people's acceptance and usage of emerging technologies applied in the innovation of food products in Taiwan. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Valorization of postharvest sweet cherry discard for the development of dehydrated fruit ingredients: compositional, physical, and mechanical properties
Authors: Franceschinis Lorena , Sette Paula , Salvatori Daniela , Schebor Carolina
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

Sweet cherries are an excellent source of phenolic compounds, which may contribute to a healthy diet. The objective of this work was to generate dehydrated ingredients from postharvest discard of sweet cherries.

RESULTS

Four dried ingredients were obtained from fresh sweet cherry discard (Lapins var.) using an osmotic dehydration pretreatment and freeze drying or air drying. The ingredients showed an important phenolic contribution (2.8–6.6 g gallic acid kg−1 of product) and preserved the natural color of the fruit to a great extent. Freeze‐dried ingredients were less hygroscopic than air‐dried ones, and presented with a softer texture. All the ingredients were in a supercooled state at room temperature (Tg range: −23.0 to −18.8 °C). Sugar infusion pretreatment caused a decrease in water sorption capacity and molecular mobility; it also reduced the initial rehydration rate.

CONCLUSION

Relevant differences in nutritional and structural characteristics of the ingredients were observed depending on the processing method used. These ingredients could be incorporated into different processed foods, such as snacks, cereal mixtures, cereal bars, and bakery and confectionery products. Air‐dried control ingredients presented better nutritional qualities and air‐dried sweet cherries with sugar infusion pretreatment could be appropriate ingredients for applications where sweet flavor and slow rehydration rate are required. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Electrochemical corrosion behavior of Ti‐10V‐2Fe‐3Al in different corrosive media
Authors: Arya Shashi Bhushan , Bhattacharjee Amit , Roy Manish
Published: April 2018

The electrochemical corrosion behavior of Ti‐10V‐2Fe‐3Al in different corrosive media namely, artificial sea water solution, Hank's solution, 0.5 M sulfuric acid, and 0.5 M hydrochloric acid solution has been investigated. Corrosion rates are evaluated using open circuit potential, current time transient, Tafel extrapolation potentiodynamic polarization curves, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results show that this alloy has lower corrosion rate in alkaline solution due to formation of thick, compact, and stable passive film. In acid solution corrosion rate is higher as the passive film is less compact, porous, and unstable. In general, the material is more active in C1− ion containing solution.
Wafer‐Scale Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotubes Locked by In Situ Hydrogelation toward Strengthening Static and Dynamic Compressive Responses
Authors: Jing Lin , Li Hongling , Tay Roland Yingjie , Lin Jinjun , Tsang Siu Hon , Teo Edwin Hang Tong , Tok Alfred Iing Yoong
Published: April 2018

Wafer‐scale vertically aligned carbon nanotube/poly(vinyl alcohol) (VACNT/PVA) hydrogels are fabricated by infiltration of PVA among VACNTs and subsequent in situ hydrogelation. Owing to the homogeneous PVA infiltration, uniform distribution and orientation of the carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are well retained, which in turn provide large CNT‐PVA interfaces throughout the resulting hydrogels. Compared to bare PVA hydrogels, such composite hydrogels perform significantly enhanced longitudinal compressive responses upon both static and dynamic loadings, achieving improvements of up to 25.2‐ and 9.0‐fold in strength and loss modulus, respectively. The novel scalable fabrication of VACNT/PVA hydrogels and their attractive performances hold great potential for a wide range of applications.
Influence of MWCNT on the Processing Properties and Structure of PVC Composites
Authors: Skórczewska Katarzyna , Tomaszewska Jolanta , Piszczek Kazimierz
Published: April 2018

The preparation of nanocomposites by incorporation of nanoparticles, in particular the carbon nanotubes in a molten polymeric matrix could find potential application in industry technologies as a method of the manufacturing of new engineering materials. Considering the complex transformations of PVC grains during processing as well as weak dispersibility of nanotubes caused by their high tendency to agglomeration are crucial to investigate the influence of MWCNT content on PVC processability. For this purpose the plastographmetric analysis of processing of PVC/MWCNT blends are carried out. The results of the research show that the presence of nanotubes causes an increase in shearing stress, which leads to PVC grains disintegration and faster gelation compared to the unmodified PVC blend. At the same time, the carbon nanotubes dispersed in the molten PVC blend lead to intensification of the process, which occurs at a lower temperature.
Genome sequence and description of Gracilibacillus timonensis sp. nov. strain Marseille‐P2481T, a moderate halophilic bacterium isolated from the human gut microflora
Authors: Diop Awa , Seck El hadji , Dubourg Gregory , Armstrong Nicholas , Blanc‐Tailleur Caroline , Raoult Didier , Fournier Pierre‐Edouard
Published: April 2018

Microbial culturomics represents an ongoing revolution in the characterization of the human gut microbiota. By using three culture media containing high salt concentrations (10, 15, and 20% [w/v] NaCl), we attempted an exhaustive exploration of the halophilic microbial diversity of the human gut and isolated strain Marseille‐P2481 (= CSUR P2481 =  DSM 103076), a new moderately halophilic bacterium. This bacterium is a Gram‐positive, strictly aerobic, spore‐forming rod that is motile by use of a flagellum and exhibits catalase, but not oxidase activity. Strain Marseille‐P2481 was cultivated in media containing up to 20% (w/v) NaCl, with optimal growth being obtained at 37°C, pH 7.0–8.0, and 7.5% [w/v] NaCl). The major fatty acids were 12‐methyl‐tetradecanoic acid and hexadecanoic acid. Its draft genome is 4,548,390 bp long, composed of 11 scaffolds, with a G+C content of 39.8%. It contains 4,335 predicted genes (4,266 protein coding including 89 pseudogenes and 69 RNA genes). Strain Marseille‐P2481 showed 96.57% 16S rRNA sequence similarity with Gracilibacillus alcaliphilus strain SG103T, the phylogenetically closest species with standing in nomenclature. On the basis of its specific features, strain Marseille‐P2481T was classified as type strain of a new species within the genus Gracilibacillus for which the name Gracilibacillus timonensis sp. nov. is formally proposed.
MiR‐193a‐3p and miR‐224 mediate renal cell carcinoma progression by targeting alpha‐2,3‐sialyltransferase IV and the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase/Akt pathway
Authors: Pan Yue , Hu Jialei , Ma Jia , Qi Xia , Zhou Huimin , Miao Xiaoyan , Zheng Wei , Jia Li
Published: April 2018

Tumor metastasis is a major cause of cancer‐related death in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been widely known to modulate proliferation invasion, metastasis, and apoptosis of cancer cells. In this study, we aimed to investigate the function and novel target of miR‐193a‐3p and miR‐224 in RCC. The levels of miR‐193a‐3p and miR‐224 were significantly increased in RCC tissues and RCC cell lines. Alpha‐2,3‐Sialyltransferase IV (ST3GalIV) was highly expressed in adjacent nontumor tissues and human normal proximal tubular cell line HK‐2 compared to RCC tissues and cell lines. ST3GalIV expression was negatively correlated with miR‐193a‐3p and miR‐224. Further analysis indicated that miR‐193a‐3p and miR‐224 directly targeted ST3GalIV. MiR‐193a‐3p and miR‐224 increased cell proliferation and migration by directly inhibiting ST3GalIV, and this effect was reversed by co‐transfection with ST3GalIV in vitro. Overexpression of miR‐193a‐3p and miR‐224 increased RCC cell proliferation in vivo. Furthermore, the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway was mediated by miR‐193a‐3p and miR‐224 in RCC cell lines. Collectively, these results suggested that miR‐193a‐3p and miR‐224 played an important role in regulation of RCC by targeting ST3GalIV via PI3K/Akt pathway.
HLA‐DQβ1 amino acid position 87 and DQB1*0301 are associated with Chinese Han SLE
Authors: Sun Jingying , Yang Chao , Fei Wenmin , Zhang Xuelei , Sheng Yujun , Zheng Xiaodong , Tang Huayang , Yang Wanling , Yang Sen , Fan Xing , Zhang Xuejun
Published: April 2018

Background

Several susceptibility loci have been identified associated with Chinese Han systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

We carried out imputation of classical HLA alleles, amino acids and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) across the MHC region in Chinese Han SLE genome‐wide association study (GWAS) of mainland and Hong Kong populations for the first time using newly constructed Han‐MHC reference panel followed by stepwise conditional analysis.

Results

We mapped the most significant independent association to HLA‐DQβ1 at amino acid position (Phe87, p = 7.807 × 10−17) and an independent association at HLA‐DQB1*0301 (Pcondiational = 1.43 × 10−7).

Conclusion

Our study illustrates the value of population‐specific HLA reference panel for fine‐mapping causal variants in the MHC.
Numerical solution of an optimal control problem for Oskolkov's system
Authors: Plekhanova Marina V. , Baybulatova Gusel D. , Davydov Pavel N.
Published: April 2018

We construct a numerical solution of an optimal control problem for Oskolkov's equations system. The system models the dynamics of Kelvin‐Voigt viscoelastic fluid. Solutions of the original boundary problem and of the conjugate problem are found numerically by means of the difference schemes method. We apply the approach of the research of evolution systems that are not solvable with respect to the time derivative. The optimization is performed using the conditional gradient method. We present the numerical experiment.
Invariant characterization of scalar third‐order ODEs that admit the maximal point symmetry Lie algebra
Authors: Al‐Dweik Ahmad Y. , Mustafa M. T. , Mahomed Fazal Mahmood
Published: April 2018

The Cartan equivalence method is used to deduce an invariant characterization of the scalar third‐order ordinary differential equation
, which admits the maximal 7‐dimensional point symmetry Lie algebra. The method provides auxiliary functions that can be used to efficiently obtain the point transformation that does the reduction to the simplest linear equation
. Moreover, examples are given to illustrate the method.
A novel analytical approach for predicting the noncylindrical pile penetration‐induced soil displacement in undrained soil by combining use of cavity expansion and strain path methods
Authors: Zhou Hang , Liu Hanlong , Yuan Jingrong
Published: April 2018

Since development of cavity expansion theory and strain path method, almost all the conventional analyses of pile penetration problem have been based on circular cross section penetrometer. However, noncylindrical pile (with noncircular cross section) is also required in geotechnical engineering such as rectangular cross‐sectional pile, X‐sectional cast‐in‐place concrete pile, H‐shaped steel pile, prefabricated vertical drains, and flat dilatometer. This paper presents a novel and general analytical approach for capturing the soil deformation mechanism around the pile with arbitrary cross section. The penetration problem is simulated by a new 2‐dimensional (radial and circumferential) cavity expansion model. Based on the theoretical framework of strain path method, the kinematics (velocity field) of the noncylindrical cavity expansion is reduced to solve the Laplace equation with arbitrary velocity boundary conditions by using the conformal mapping technique. Then, solutions for the strain and displacement, which could consider the large deformation effect, are obtained by the integration of the strain rate and velocity along the streamline. The analytical solution is validated by comparing the degenerate solution of this study with conventional circular (cylindrical) cavity expansion theory. Subsequently, typical numerical examples for the deformation mechanism of elliptical and rectangular cavity expansion are presented to prove the advantage of the proposed new solution particularly in capturing the noncylindrical symmetric displacement field. A brief application of the proposed new analytical solution to the interpretation of the smear effect of prefabricated vertical drain installation confirms its useful in geotechnical engineering.
Dielectric and energy harvesting properties of FeTiNbO6/PVDF composites with reinforced sandwich structure
Authors: Fu Jing , Hou Yudong , Zheng Mupeng , Zhu Mankang
Published: April 2018

Flexible dielectrics have been the major enabler for a number of applications in advanced electronic and electrical power systems. As an important flexible dielectric material, polymer composites are promising in raising the poor dielectric properties of neat polymer of current use. In this study, a class of topological‐structure modulated multilayer composites comprising a percolation layer (FeTiNbO6[FTN]/polyvinylidenefluoride [PVDF]) intercalated between two insulating layers (PVDF or BaTiO3[BT]/PVDF) are assembled into sandwich structures by a facile hot‐pressing method. For the prepared sandwich structure, FTN/PVDF film acts as a semiconductive layer to raise dielectric permittivity, while two insulating layers at top and bottom of composite are used to suppress conductivity and dielectric loss. Resulted from the unique performances of the FTN/PVDF film and strong interfacial polarization, the sandwich composite possesses improved dielectric and insulation properties. Moreover, compared with FTN/PVDF, the BT20‐FTN40‐BT20 has lower dielectric loss and higher insulation properties, and after poling at 20 kV/mm for 6 h, it exhibits excellent vibration energy harvesting properties in cantilever mode. Thus, a piezoelectric energy harvester constructed from this sandwich composite can be used for self‐driving wireless sensors. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E570–E578, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Pharmacokinetic profiling of anticancer phytocompounds using computational approach
Authors: Sharma Ashish , Sharma Shilpa , Gupta Mansi , Fatima Shehnaz , Saini Ravi , Agarwal Subhash Mohan
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Natural products exhibit diverse scaffolds and are considered as suitable candidates for development of leads. However, poor pharmacokinetics often acts as a hindrance during the drug discovery process.

Objective

With a view of exploring the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) profile of plant‐based anticancer compounds, open‐access databases (NPACT, CancerHSP and TaxKB) were analysed to identify molecules having properties favourable for drug ability.

Methodology

Our workflow involved identification of molecules capable of passing each of the ADMET barriers based on physicochemical properties of molecules, and physiological barriers and factors.

Results

The results revealed that out of 5086 phytomolecules, 63% were orally absorbable and 52% distributable. Also, an appreciable proportion of these compounds (45%) could be metabolised and excreted. Furthermore, 28% were found to be non‐toxic for cardio toxicity and central nervous system (CNS) activity. Additionally, comparison against known anticancer drugs (reference dataset) revealed that the three libraries exhibit similar trends, thus providing additional confidence to the predictions. Overall, 28% of the molecular dataset was found to have suitable pharmacokinetic properties. We have also discussed a few natural products which exhibit favourable ADMET as well as low nano‐micromolar in vitro anticancer activity.

Conclusion

We have created an interactive database (ADMETCan), which provides access to predicted ADMET of these anticancer phytomolecules. The ease of availability of this dataset is expected to minimise failure rate of these compounds and thus is expected to be beneficial to the scientific community involved in anticancer identification and development.
How Accurate Are National Stereotypes? A Test of Different Methodological Approaches
Authors: Hřebíčková Martina , Mõttus René , Graf Sylvie , Jelínek Martin , Realo Anu
Published: April 2018

We compared different methodological approaches in research on the accuracy of national stereotypes that use aggregated mean scores of real people's personality traits as criteria for stereotype accuracy. Our sample comprised 16,713 participants from the Central Europe and 1,090 participants from the Baltic Sea region. Participants rated national stereotypes of their own country using the National Character Survey (NCS) and their personality traits using either the Revised NEO Personality Inventory or the NCS. We examined the effects of different (i) methods for rating of real people (Revised NEO Personality Inventory vs. NCS) and national stereotypes (NCS); (ii) norms for converting raw scores into T–scores (Russian vs. international norms); and (iii) correlation techniques (intraclass correlations vs. Pearson correlations vs. rank–order correlations) on the resulting agreement between the ratings of national stereotypes and real people. We showed that the accuracy of national stereotypes depended on the employed methodology. The accuracy was the highest when ratings of real people and national stereotypes were made using the same method and when rank order correlations were used to estimate the agreement between national stereotypes and personality profiles of real people. We propose a new statistical procedure for determining national stereotype accuracy that overcomes limitations of past studies. We provide methodological recommendations applicable to a wider range of cross national stereotype accuracy studies. Copyright © 2018 European Association of Personality Psychology
Self‐assembly behavior of amphiphilic linear‐block‐dendritic copolymers with long subchains: Dependences on dendron generation and mixing dynamics
Authors: Li Peng‐Yun , He Chen , Xie Wei‐Xiang , Li Hui‐Juan , Haleem Abdul , Hu Chuan‐Shan , Li Xi‐Chuan , He Wei‐Dong
Published: April 2018

Block copolymers composed of acrylic acid and methyl methacrylate with three topologies of double linear blocks, poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) linear block/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) G1‐dendron and PAA linear block/PMMA G2‐dendron have been prepared by the combination of atom transfer radical polymerization and azide–alkyne click reaction. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and gel permeation chromatography have been adopted thoroughly to identify the chemical structure of those block copolymers with expected topologies. The self‐assembly of those block copolymers in the selective solvent has been performed through two mixing routes of gentle and abrupt variation in solvent selectivity, and the morphology of the obtained self‐assemblies/aggregates was observed by transmission electron microscopy. Because the abrupt variation route altered sharply the solvent quality during the mixing, the intermolecular association of polymer chains resulted in the smaller self‐assemblies but the further growth of smaller self‐assemblies was not observed. On the contrary, the gentle variation route changed gradually the solvent quality during the mixing, favoring not only the intermolecular association but also the further growth of self‐assemblies to result in larger aggregates. The final morphology of those assemblies/aggregates also exhibited the dependence of PMMA dendron generation. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 1446–1456
Does stress increase risk of breast cancer? A 15‐year prospective study
Authors: Butow Phyllis , Price Melanie , Coll Joseph , Tucker Katherine , Meiser Bettina , Milne Roger , Wilson Judith , Heiniger Louise , Baylock Brandi , Bullen Tracey , Weideman Prue , Phillips Kelly‐Anne ,   on behalf of the kConFab investigators,   kConFab Clinical Follow‐Up investigators,   kConFab psychosocial investigators
Published: April 2018

Objective

The possible impact of stress on cancer incidence remains controversial. We prospectively evaluated associations between life event stressors, social support, personality characteristics (optimism, anger control, antiemotionality), and risk of developing primary breast cancer (BCa), in women at increased familial risk of BCa.

Methods

A prospective cohort, repeated measures design was used. Recruitment was through the Kathleen Cuningham Foundation Consortium for Research into Familial Breast Cancer, which collects genetic, epidemiological, and clinical data from Australasian families with multiple BCa cases. Acute and chronic stressors for the prior 3 years and psychosocial, clinical, and epidemiological variables were measured at cohort entry and at 3‐yearly intervals. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis controlling for BCa risk factors and familial clustering was undertaken. The primary outcome was histopathologically confirmed BCa (invasive or ductal carcinoma in situ, including occult cases diagnosed during risk‐reducing mastectomy).

Results

Of 3595 consecutive women invited to participate, 3054 (85.0%) consented. Of these, 2739 (89.7%) from 990 families (range 1‐16 per family) completed at least 1 assessment point. During the study, 103 women were diagnosed with BCa. No stressor or psychosocial variable or interaction between them was significantly associated with BCa in unadjusted or adjusted models (total acute stressors HR = 1.03 [0.99‐1.08], P = .19; total chronic stressors HR = 1.0 [0.90‐1.11], P = .98).

Conclusions

This study did not demonstrate an association between acute and chronic stressors, social support, optimism, antiemotionality or anger control, and BCa risk. Women should focus on proven methods of BCa risk reduction.