bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Release behavior of a polyanion‐crosslinked chitosan‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) gel thermoresponsive material
Authors: Ueoka Hiroki , Shimomura Osamu , Ueda Kayoko , Inada Katsuhiro , Nomura Ryoki
Published: October 2018

A novel type of temperature‐responsive hydrogel with sensitive release performance of an encapsulated compound was obtained. The temperature‐responsive hydrogel with a sensitive state change between 32 °C and 29 °C was prepared by physically crosslinking chitosan with a polyanion of tripolyphosphate and linear poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm). Cyanocobalamin was used as a model drug and was encapsulated in the prepared hydrogel. The swelling ratio and release behavior of cyanocobalamin were evaluated. Hydrogels containing 3.0% chitosan and 3.0% PNIPAAm had the best swelling ratio and the maximum amount of released encapsulated cyanocobalamin. The amount of released cyanocobalamin was quantified at 25 °C and 40 °C to evaluate the release behavior. The encapsulated cyanocobalamin remained within the hydrogels at 25 °C and was rapidly released at 40 °C. After 1 min at 40 °C, the released amount was approximately 50% of the encapsulated cyanocobalamin. The temperature‐responsive hydrogels obtained have good performance for use in drug delivery systems. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46732.
Light curing and ratio of glass/fumed silica fillers on degree of conversion and mechanical properties of experimental composite resins
Authors: da Silva Prezotto A. F. , da Silva D. B. , Vitti R. P. , Sinhoreti M. A. C. , Brandt W. C.
Published: October 2018

This study evaluated the degree of conversion and mechanical properties of experimental composite resins made with different fillers and light‐curing methods. All composites had the same organic matrix (40% wt) and photoinitiator system (1.2% wt). Experimental composite groups were divided according to ratio (%) of silanated ground glass (0.5 μm) (BaAlSi) and fumed silica (SiO2): 100/0, 90/10, 80/20, and 70/30. Light‐emitting diode light was used in the continuous, soft‐start, and pulse‐delay modes (n = 10). Degree of conversion was determined using attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Flexural strength and modulus were obtained using a universal testing machine, and Knoop microhardness was measured in a Knoop indenter. The data were subjected to a two‐way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test (α = 0.05). Continuous‐light exposure of the 100/0 group produced the highest degrees of conversion. Soft‐start exposure of the 70/30 groups produced the highest Knoop microhardness. The pulse‐delay method produced the lowest flexural strength and modulus values. The 100/0 and 70/30 groups had the lowest flexural strength and flexural modulus, respectively. Application of continuous‐light output with composite resins containing a ratio of 80/20 (BaAlSi/SiO2) fillers generated the best results regarding the degree of conversion and mechanical properties. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47008.
Disclosing the role of surface and bulk erosion on the viscoelastic behavior of biodegradable poly(ε‐caprolactone)/poly(lactic acid)/hydroxyapatite nanocomposites
Authors: Shojaei S. , Nikuei M. , Goodarzi V. , Hakani M. , Khonakdar H. A. , Saeb M. R.
Published: October 2018

In this study, biodegradable polymer blends and their nanocomposites were prepared using poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) as blending components and hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles as reinforcement. X‐ray diffraction spectra showed that the presence of HA nanoparticles enhanced the intensity of the peaks (100) and (200) corresponding to the PCL's crystalline planes. The transmission electron microscopy images confirmed the high tendency of HA nanoparticles to locate in the PLA phase. The water uptake values of samples measured at pH 4 were more than those measured at other pH values. The weight loss behavior of blends in acidic medium was completely different from that in basic and neutral media. The Williams–Landel–Ferry equation and time–temperature superposition principle were applied to the creep compliance of the samples and their master curves were determined at reference temperature of 30 °C, and the mechanical properties of samples were predicted in other conditions. The effect of pH on the creep–recovery response of studied samples was analyzed. From this analysis, it could be found that at pH 4, the creep stain increased, while, at pH 7, there was no a significant change in the viscoelastic property. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 47151.
Biodegradation of polyhydroxybutyrate and hollow glass microspheres composite films
Authors: Araque L. M. , Alves T. S. , Barbosa R.
Published: October 2018

Biodegradable polymers represent an alternative to the conventional ones. The polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) is one of the most used biodegradable polymers. However, PHB presents narrow processing window, which limits its applicability. The development of PHB composites offers a solution for that drawback. In this work, PHB and hollow glass microspheres (HGMs) composite films are developed. Subsequently, the films are characterized, and the biodegradability of the films is determined by the Sturm test. A suitable distribution and intermediate dispersion of the filler throughout the matrix are observed, while adhesion between the components is not achieved. The HGM does not significantly affect the thermal properties of the systems, however, decreases the degree of crystallinity. In addition, the composite films present small values of elongation and tensile strength than the pure PHB film. Finally, the HGM modified the mechanism of biodegradation; however, there was no change in the rate of biodegradation. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47195.
Tannic Acid Solution: A Better Fixative Solution Than Formalin for Elastin and Collagen—Toxic and Morphological Assessment
Authors: Cisne Rafael , Souza Alessandra M. T. , Pereira‐Sampaio Marco A. , Babinski Marcio A. , Gorniak Silvana L. , Papa Paula C.
Published: October 2018

Formaldehyde is commonly used worldwide, even though it is classified as carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. This has motivated intensive investigations of formaldehyde substitutes, and recently, some alternative solutions were found, which can potentially replace it. Previous research showed that tannic acid (TA) in glutaraldehyde solution has the ability to stabilize elastin and collagen. This provided a basis for the development of a new alcoholic fixative solution, particularly aimed at extracellular matrix components, with TA as a main component. Heart, brain, and intestinal samples were fixed by immersion in 10% regular formalin solution (RFS), 70% ethanol solution (ES), and tannic acid ethanolic solution (TAES). Next, tissue fragments were prepared for routine histology procedures. The toxicity of TA was analyzed using in silico tests for mutagenicity, as well as for cutaneous and respiratory toxicity. Analyses of photomicrographs demonstrated that all fixative solutions have the ability to preserve the fragments. The quantitative analyses showed that capability of TAES to preserve and stabilize elastin and collagen is superior to that of RFS and ES. We demonstrated that TA is not mutagenic, and it is less toxic for skin and respiratory tract. We therefore conclude that TAES can potentially represent a powerful and feasible alternative solution for fixing extracellular matrix of microscopic examination samples. Anat Rec, 301:1544–1550, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hsc70 is a Component of Bacterially Generated Actin‐Rich Structures: An Immunolocalization Study
Authors: Walker Brittany D. , Chua Michael D. , Guttman Julian A.
Published: October 2018

Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC), Salmonella typhimurium, and Listeria monocytogenes usurp the actin cytoskeleton for their attachment, internalization and transport within and amongst infected cells. To try to gain a greater understanding of the molecular components utilized by these microbes during their infections we previously concentrated actin‐rich structures generated during EPEC infections (called pedestals) and identified the heat shock cognate 70 protein (Hsc70) as a potential candidate. This multifunctional protein classically acts as a chaperone for the proper folding of a variety of proteins and is involved in uncoating clathrin from coated pits. Here we demonstrated that Hsc70 is recruited to actin structures generated during EPEC, Listeria and Salmonella infections, but not to the same location as clathrin. Anat Rec, 301:2095–2102, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Eurasian Elk's (Alces alces) Brain Base Arteries in View of Vascular Variation
Authors: Zdun Maciej , Jabłoński Ryszard , Dębiński Dariusz , Frąckowiak Hieronim
Published: October 2018

This article presents the results of analysis of the arterial vascular region of the Eurasian elk, which is a representative of the Cervidae family. The study was conducted on 39 Eurasian elks. The head arteries of 25 animals were filled with LBS 3040 synthetic latex. The head arteries of the other 14 Eurasian elks were filled with an acetone solution of stained chlorinated polyvinyl chloride and macerated. The arterial circle of the Eurasian elk's brain is composed of bilateral rostral cerebral arteries and caudal communicating arteries. The basilar artery closes the arterial circle caudally. The rostral cerebral artery first ramifies into the rostral choroidal artery, then, the middle cerebral artery and the rostral communicating artery. The caudal cerebral artery and the rostral cerebellar artery branch off the caudal communicating artery. The arterial pattern of the Eurasian elk's brain base is similar to the arteries found in other deer. Like in other Ruminantia, the rostral epidural rete mirabile is a unique structure in the Eurasian elk's arterial system. Anat Rec, 302:339–345, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Postcranial Skeletal Differences in Free‐Range and Captive‐Born Primates
Authors: Kohn Luci Ann P. , Lubach Gabriele R.
Published: October 2018

Skeletal morphology is important in evolutionary, genetic, developmental, physiological, and functional studies. Although samples from free‐ranging individuals may be preferable, constraints of sample size, demography, or conservation status may necessitate the inclusion of captive‐born individuals. Captivity may be associated with physical, physiological, or behavioral differences that may affect skeletal form. This study assesses differences in postcranial skeletal form between free‐range and captive‐born Macaca mulatta and Saguinus oedipus. Samples included free‐range M. mulatta from Cayo Santiago (Caribbean Primate Research Center) and captive‐born macaques from the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. S. oedipus samples included free‐range born and captive‐born individuals from the Oak Ridge Associated Universities Marmoset Research Center. Twenty‐four dimensions of various bones, including the scapula, upper limb, innominate and lower limb, were recorded for adults. Age of epiphyseal closure was recorded for immature captive‐born M. mulatta. Analysis of variance and principal component analyses tested significant differences between free‐range born and captive‐born individuals in each species. Significant differences were present in size and shape of postcrania between free‐range and captive‐born within taxa. Free‐range macaques were larger than captive‐born macaques, but this pattern did not consistently carry over to the Saguinus samples. Shape differences, while present throughout the skeleton, were especially prominent in the scapula. Differences in developmental timing, nutrition, and physical activity can be expected to contribute to the observed differences in postcranial skeletal form. These differences should be considered when captive‐born primates are included in morphological or evolutionary studies. Anat Rec, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Anat Rec, 302:761–774, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Experimentally Induced Biliary Atresia by Means of Rotavirus‐Infection Is Directly Linked to Severe Damage of the Microvasculature in the Extrahepatic Bile Duct
Authors: Oetzmann von Sochaczewski Christina , Pintelon Isabel , Brouns Inge , Thys Sofie , Deigendesch Nikolaus , Kübler Joachim F. , Timmermans Jean‐Pierre , Petersen Claus
Published: October 2018

Vascular damage has been reported to contribute to atresia formation in several diseases including biliary atresia. This study focused on the extrahepatic biliary plexus in experimental biliary atresia. Newborn BALB/cAnNCrl‐pups were infected with rhesus rotavirus within 24 hr after birth to induce experimental biliary atresia. The extrahepatic biliary plexus was examined by confocal microscopy on whole‐mount preparations, scored by three independent researchers, and further evaluated at the subcellular level with transmission electron microscopy. Imaging results revealed a progressive destruction of the extrahepatic biliary vascular plexus in the course of experimental biliary atresia induced by rotavirus infection. Endothelial cell damage was already visible as cell swelling and necrosis in the first days after infection and a damaged microcirculation that rapidly deteriorated with progression of obliterative cholangiopathy, was observed in the infected mice as early as 72 hr after birth. In experimental biliary atresia, the destruction of the extrahepatic biliary vascular plexus starts already in the first days postinfection and clearly precedes the morphological symptoms of atresia. The deterioration of the vascular bed architecture continues with disease progression. Therefore, we conclude that the (ultra)structural changes in the extrahepatic biliary microvasculature occurring before the visible onset of atresia has a predictive diagnostic value and this impairment in blood supply to the extrahepatic bile duct may be an important contributing factor to the pathogenesis of acquired biliary atresia. Anat Rec, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Anat Rec, 302:818–824, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Oxidation of Guanosine Monophosphate with O2 via a Ru‐peroxo Complex in Water
Authors: Takenaka Makoto , Kikkawa Mitsuhiro , Matsumoto Takahiro , Yatabe Takeshi , Ando Tatsuya , Yoon Ki‐Seok , Ogo Seiji
Published: October 2018

Oxidative damage of DNA by reactive oxygen species (ROS) is responsible for aging and cancer. Although many studies of DNA damage by ROS have been conducted, there have been no reports of the oxidation of RNA components, such as guanosine monophosphate, by metal‐based species in water. Here, we report the first case of oxidation of guanosine monophosphate to 8‐oxoguanosine monophosphate by a metal‐based oxygen bound species, derived from O2 and in water.
Impacts of Potassium Permanganate and Powdered Activated Carbon on Cyanotoxin Release
Authors: Dugan Nicholas R. , Smith Samantha J. , Sanan Toby T.
Published: October 2018

Bench‐scale trials were performed to (1) expose Microcystis aeruginosa cells to potassium permanganate (KMnO4) doses of 1, 3, and 5 mg/L at contact times (CTs) of 15, 30, and 90 min, pH levels of 7 and 9, and turbidities of 0.1, 5, and 20 ntu, respectively; (2) compare the impacts of oxidation alone and oxidation plus powdered activated carbon (PAC) for the final 60 min of CT; and (3) evaluate the impact of these treatment conditions on extracellular microcystins (MCs), extra‐plus intracellular (combined) MCs, cell membrane integrity, and chlorophyll a concentrations. Toxin releases from the cells were observed at both pH levels. The greatest toxin releases were observed at the lowest KMnO4 doses. The toxin releases were accompanied by relatively stable total cell counts, increases in membrane‐compromised cells, and decreases in chlorophyll a. The application of 10 mg/L PAC resulted in extracellular toxin concentrations that were markedly lower than those observed in oxidant‐only situations.
Portable fluorescence‐based microRNA detection system based on isothermal signal amplification technology
Authors: Zhang Zhanying , Wang Yanfei , Li Yanlei , Yu Dongsheng , Chen Haiyan , Cai Yi , Fang Weikai , Yang Zhe , Ji Yufeng , Guan Yifu , Chu Yannan , Xu Chidong
Published: October 2018

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) diagnostics can be useful for diagnosing or confirming miRNA abundance and are used in screening tests and to assess changes in miRNAs in vivo. At present, the use of traditional nucleic acid amplification assays to detect miRNAs has been limited in laboratory environment because of the time, equipment, and technical expertise required to perform these assays. A specialized, rapid affordable miRNA detection system is necessary when there are limited resources or point‐of‐care testing needs. We designed a portable and affordable fluorescence‐based miRNA detection system based on isothermal signal amplification technology, using SYBR Green II as a fluorescent dye. To reduce costs, we chose LED as a light source and designed the corresponding optical path for LED. The portable detection system shows results consistent with those by real‐time PCR, and can be used to detect miR‐183 with a limit of detection of approximately 2 fmol. We used the system to detect miR‐183 in tissues and blood from patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The results from the portable detection device were compared with those from clinical trials and indicated that the miR‐183 fluorescence signal could successfully identify HCC and provide information related to cancer progression.
Minderung von Erschütterungs‐ und Körperschalleinträgen von Seilbahnen in ein Gebäude
Authors: Gömmel Andreas
Published: October 2018

Für die Schwingungs‐ und Körperschallentkopplung von insgesamt zwei Stützen, zwei Umlenktürmen und einer Antriebsstation einer ringförmigen Seilbahn auf einem neu errichteten Gebäude in Asien wurde ein Konzept zur elastischen Lagerung mittels bewehrter Gummielemente entwickelt. Ziel war es, sowohl die Schwingungsimmissionen als auch den abgestrahlten Luftschall aus Körperschallübertragung zu begrenzen. Die Auslegung erfolgte mithilfe dreidimensionaler Finite‐Elemente‐Modelle. Die Schwierigkeit bestand vor allem darin, die Anregungskräfte wirklichkeitsnah zu erfassen sowie die Eingangsimpedanz des Gebäudes realistisch abzuschätzen. In einer aufwändigen Abnahmemessung vor Ort konnten während der Inbetriebnahme der Seilbahn die Wirksamkeit der Konstruktionen und die Einhaltung der vertraglich vereinbarten Werte nachgewiesen werden.
Economic comparative advantage of willow biomass in the Northeast USA
Authors: Langholtz Matthew , Eaton Laurence , Davis Maggie , Shedden Magen , Brandt Craig , Volk Tim , Richard Tom
Published: October 2018

We evaluate the potential economic availability of willow (Salix spp.) short‐rotation woody crops in the Northeast USA. Based on results from a 20‐year agronomic simulation, the Northeast USA could potentially provide between 2.1 and 9.7 million dry Mg year−1, depending on farmgate price and competition with other energy crops. In a diversified biomass energy‐crop scenario, willow outperforms other lignocellulosic energy crops in planted area and production at 91% of supply and 83% of planted area in a low‐price scenario in the Northeast USA. In a high‐price scenario, willow also outperforms competing energy crops at 47% of production and 51% of planted area. In contrast with the rest of the USA, willow comprises the greatest portion of energy crop potential in the Northeast. These results suggest that willow has an agronomic comparative advantage in this region as compared to herbaceous energy crops, with great potential to increase production given adequate market prices. © 2018 The Authors. Biofuels, Bioproducts, and Biorefining published by Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diet, Gut Microbes and Host Mate Choice
Authors: Leftwich Philip T. , Hutchings Matthew I. , Chapman Tracey
Published: October 2018

All organisms live in close association with microbes. However, not all such associations are meaningful in an evolutionary context. Current debate concerns whether hosts and microbes are best described as communities of individuals or as holobionts (selective units of hosts plus their microbes). Recent reports that assortative mating of hosts by diet can be mediated by commensal gut microbes have attracted interest as a potential route to host reproductive isolation (RI). Here, the authors discuss logical problems with this line of argument. The authors briefly review how microbes can affect host mating preferences and evaluate recent findings from fruitflies. Endosymbionts can potentially influence host RI given stable and recurrent co‐association of hosts and microbes over evolutionary time. However, observations of co‐occurrence of microbes and hosts are ripe for misinterpretation and such associations will rarely represent a meaningful holobiont. A framework in which hosts and their microbes are independent evolutionary units provides the only satisfactory explanation for the observed range of effects and associations.
The effects of fluorescent labels on Aβ42 aggregation detected by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy
Authors: Zheng Yanpeng , Xu Lingwan , Yang Jingfa , Peng Xianglei , Wang He , Yu Na , Hua Ying , Zhao Jiang , He Jinsheng , Hong Tao
Published: October 2018

Fluorescence‐based methods are promising for measuring amyloid beta (Aβ) oligomers, given their capacity to analyse a sample at the single‐molecule level. As the attachment of fluorescent labels may influence the biochemical properties of the Aβ oligomers, the effects of fluorescent labels on Aβ oligomers must be evaluated. In this paper, we compared the impacts of five different fluorescent dyes on the aggregation of Aβ42 oligomers using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS). We found that fluorescent labels of BODIPY® FL‐C5 (BP), N‐hydroxysuccinimide rhodamine B ester (RB) and rhodamine B isothiocyanate (RITC) increased the propensity of labelled Aβ42 oligomers to aggregate, whereas 6‐(fluorescein‐5‐carboxamido) hexanoic acid succinimidyl ester (5‐SFX) and fluorescein 5(6)‐isothiocyanate (5(6)‐FITC) decreased the propensity of labelled Aβ42 oligomers to aggregate. This difference originated from the different electric charges and hydrophobicity of the fluorescent dyes. These results provide valuable information for establishing different aggregation models for Aβ42 oligomers in vitro using FCS.
Meta-analysis of sentinel lymph node biopsy after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with initial biopsy-proven node-positive breast cancer
Authors: Tee S R , Devane L A , Evoy D , Rothwell J , Geraghty J , Prichard R S , McDermott E W
Published: October 2018

Background

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer has the potential to achieve a pathological complete response in up to 40 per cent of patients, converting disease that was initially node-positive to node-negative. This has raised the question of whether sentinel lymph node biopsy could be an alternative to axillary lymph node dissection in these patients. The aim was to undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis of the accuracy and reliability of sentinel lymph node biopsy after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with initial biopsy-proven node-positive breast cancer.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science databases up to 30 April 2017. Inclusion criteria for studies were pathological confirmation of initial node-positive disease, and sentinel lymph node biopsy performed after neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by axillary lymph node dissection.

Results

A total of 13 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis (1921 patients in total). The pooled estimate of identification rate was 90 (95 per cent c.i. 87 to 93) per cent and the false-negative rate was 14 (11 to 17) per cent. In subgroup analysis, the false-negative rate with use of dual mapping was 11 (6 to 15) per cent, compared with 19 (11 to 27) per cent with single mapping. The false-negative rate was 20 (13 to 27) per cent when one node was removed, 12 (5 to 19) per cent with two nodes removed and 4 (0 to 9) per cent with removal of three or more nodes.

Conclusion

Sentinel lymph node biopsy after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with biopsy-proven node-positive breast cancer is accurate and reliable, but requires careful patient selection and optimal surgical techniques.
Systematic review of treatment intensification using novel agents for chemoradiotherapy in rectal cancer
Authors: Clifford R , Govindarajah N , Parsons J L , Gollins S , West N P , Vimalachandran D
Published: October 2018

Background

With the well established shift to neoadjuvant treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer, there is increasing focus on the use of radiosensitizers to improve the efficacy and tolerability of radiotherapy. There currently exist few randomized data exploring novel radiosensitizers to improve response and it is unclear what the clinical endpoints of such trials should be.

Methods

A qualitative systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines using preset search criteria across the PubMed, Cochrane and Scopus databases from 1990 to 2017. Additional results were generated from the reference lists of included papers.

Results

A total of 123 papers were identified, of which 37 were included; a further 60 articles were obtained from additional referencing to give a total of 97 articles. Neoadjuvant radiosensitization for locally advanced rectal cancer using fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy remains the standard of treatment. The oral derivative capecitabine has practical advantages over 5-fluorouracil, with equal efficacy, but the addition of a second chemotherapeutic agent has yet to show a consistent significant efficacy benefit in randomized clinical assessment. Preclinical and early-phase trials are progressing with promising novel agents, such as small molecular inhibitors and nanoparticles.

Conclusion

Despite extensive research and promising preclinical studies, a definite further agent in addition to fluoropyrimidines that consistently improves response rate has yet to be found.
Epidemiology and secular trends of malignant lymphoma in Japan: Analysis of 9426 cases according to the World Health Organization classification
Authors: Muto Reiji , Miyoshi Hiroaki , Sato Kensaku , Furuta Takuya , Muta Hiroko , Kawamoto Keisuke , Yanagida Eriko , Yamada Kyohei , Ohshima Koichi
Published: October 2018

This study provides an overview of the epidemiology and secular trends of malignant lymphoma in Japan. Using data from clinics and hospitals throughout Japan, we analyzed 9426 cases of malignant lymphoma diagnosed in 2007‐2014. We show that the proportion of follicular lymphoma and methotrexate‐associated lymphoproliferative disorder increased during this time, as did the onset age for follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. Significant increases in onset age for follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma were observed in both men and women (all P values <0.0001 except for P = 0.0448 for the latter disease in women). Further studies are required to determine the reasons for the higher proportion of and onset age for these lymphomas. Additionally, we believe that continued observation of these trends is necessary.
Review best practices for handling international eligibility, amateurism issues
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: October 2018

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The increase of international student‐athletes seeking to enroll in U.S. colleges and universities comes with a lot of hoops to jump through.
Safety and efficacy of self‐apposing Stentys drug‐eluting stent in left main coronary artery PCI: Multicentre LM‐STENTYS registry
Authors: Wańha Wojciech , Mielczarek Maksymilian , Smolka Grzegorz , Roleder Tomasz , Jaguszewski Miłosz , Ciećwierz Dariusz , Tomasiewicz Brunon , Kubler Piotr , Gorol Jarosław , Chmielecki Michał , Bartuś Stanisław , Navarese Eliano Pio , Kasprzak Michał , Sukiennik Adam , Kubica Jacek , Lekston Andrzej , Hawranek Michał , Reczuch Krzysztof , Gruchała Marcin , Ochała Andrzej , Wojakowski Wojciech
Published: October 2018

Background

There is a paucity of data on left main (LM) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) therapy with dedicated DES platforms. The LM‐STENTYS is a multicenter registry aimed at evaluating clinical outcome after PCI of LM performed with a self‐apposing Stentys DES implantation.

Methods

The registry consists of 175 consecutive patients treated with Stentys DES implanted to LM. The primary endpoint was the composite of major adverse cardiac and cerebral events (MACCE) defined as cardiac death, myocardial infarction (MI), target lesion revascularization (TLR), and stroke assessed after 1 year. The secondary endpoint was stent thrombosis (ST) at 1 year.

Results

The median age was 69 years (IQR, 62–78 years). Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) was the presenting diagnosis in 117 (66.9%) patients [74 (63.2%) unstable angina, 31 (26.5%) NSTEMI, 12 (10.3%) STEMI] and stable angina (SA) was present in 58 (33.1%) patients. The median SYNTAX score was 23.0 (IQR, 18.7–32.2) in the SA group and 25.0 (IQR, 20.0–30.7) in the ACS group. During 1‐year follow‐up in the SA group two (3.4%) MACCE occurred, both of them were cardiac deaths. In ACS patients there were 19 (16.2%) MACCE [9 (7.7%) cardiac deaths, 11 (9.4%) MIs, 11(9.4%) TLR, 1(0.9%) stroke]. Altogether, three (1.7%) cases of acute ST were noted, all of them in ACS subset.

Conclusion

LM PCI using self‐apposing Stentys DES showed favorable clinical outcomes at 1‐year in patients with SA. Events of ST in the ACS group warrant further research.
Impact of residual coronary atherosclerosis on transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Li Jun , Patel Sandeep M. , Nadeem Fahd , Thakker Prashanth , Al‐Kindi Sadeer , Thomas Rahul , Makani Amber , Hornick John M. , Patel Toral , Lipinski Jerry , Ichibori Yasuhiro , Davis Angela , Markowitz Alan H. , Bezerra Hiram G. , Simon Daniel I. , Costa Marco A. , Kalra Ankur , Attizzani Guilherme F.
Published: October 2018

Objectives

This study reports on the clinical effects of complete vs incompletely revascularized coronary artery disease on transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Background

There is a high prevalence of active coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients undergoing TAVR but preemptive revascularization remains controversial.

Methods

Patients were categorized into three cohorts: complete revascularization (CR), incomplete revascularization of a major epicardial artery (IR Major), and incomplete revascularization of a minor epicardial artery only (IR Minor). When feasible, SYNTAX scoring was performed for exploratory analysis. Analyses were performed using Cox proportional hazard models and Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

A total of 323 patients with active CAD were included. Adjusted outcomes showed that patients with IR Major had increased incidence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or revascularization compared with those in the CR cohort (HR 3.72, P = 0.048). No difference was noted in all‐cause mortality or all‐cause readmission rates. Exploratory secondary analysis with residual SYNTAX scores showed a significant interaction between disease burden and AMI/revascularization, as well as all‐cause readmission. All‐cause mortality remained unaffected based on residual SYNTAX scores.

Conclusions

This is a retrospective single‐center study reporting on pre‐TAVR revascularization outcomes in patients with active CAD. In this analysis, we found that patients undergoing TAVR benefited from achieving complete revascularization to abate future incidence of AMI/revascularization. Despite this finding, all‐cause mortality remained unaffected. Future efforts should focus on the role of functional assessment of the coronaries, as well as the long‐term effects of complete revascularization in a larger patient cohort.
Hemodynamic durability of transcatheter aortic valves using the updated Valve Academic Research Consortium‐2 criteria
Authors: Kumar Arnav , Sato Kimi , Banerjee Kinjal , Narayanswami Jyoti , Betancor Jorge , Menon Vivek , Mohananey Divyanshu , Anumandla Anil Kumar , Sawant Abhishek C. , Krishnaswamy Amar , Tuzcu E. Murat , Jaber Wael , Mick Stephanie , Svensson Lars G. , Popović Zoran B. , Blackstone Eugene H , Kapadia Samir R.
Published: October 2018

Objectives

We investigated the hemodynamic durability of the transcatheter aortic valves (TAVs) using the updated Valve Academic Research Consortium‐2 (VARC‐2) criteria.

Background

The updated VARC‐2 consensus criteria combine flow‐dependent and flow‐independent echocardiographic parameters for hemodynamic assessment of TAVR. Data on the hemodynamic durability of TAV and clinical risk factors associated with valve hemodynamic deterioration (VHD) are lacking.

Methods

All patients (n = 276) who received TAV between 2006 and 2012 and had ≥2 follow‐up echocardiograms were studied.

Results

During a median follow up period of 3.3 (1.8‐4.4) years, 8 patients (3%) developed moderate to severe valve stenosis per the VARC‐2 criteria, while 20 had mild stenosis. In a Cox proportional hazards model analysis, moderate to severe stenosis by VARC‐2 criteria was associated with younger age (P = 0.03, HR 0.94), absence of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) (P = 0.026, HR 0.18), and lower baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (P = 0.006, HR 0.94). Longitudinal analysis using a mixed effect model showed that presence of stenosis by VARC‐2 criteria was associated with an increase in aortic valve mean gradient (P < 0.001, +2.34 mmHg per year). In a subset of 93 patients with analyzable fluoroscopic images, deeper valve implantation was associated with increase in mean gradient (P = 0.004, +0.2 mmHg per year per 1 mm increase in implantation depth).

Conclusion

Despite good hemodynamic durability of TAV, patients with younger age, lower LVEF and those not on DAPT after undergoing a TAV replacement, are at a higher risk for development of VHD.
Lipase and Laccase Encapsulated on Zeolite Imidazolate Framework: Enzyme Activity and Stability from Voltammetric Measurements
Authors: Naseri Maryam , Pitzalis Federica , Carucci Cristina , Medda Luca , Fotouhi Lida , Magner Edmond , Salis Andrea
Published: October 2018

Abstract: Lipase (Pseudomonas fluorescens) and laccase (Trametates versicolor) were encapsulated on two zeolite imidazolate framework, ZIF‐8 and ZIF‐zni, materials using a one‐pot synthesis‐immobilization method in aqueous solution at room temperature. The synthesized immobilized biocatalysts (Lip@ZIF‐8, Lip@ZIF‐zni, Lac@ZIF‐8, and Lac@ZIF‐zni) were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The enzymatic activities of the four immobilized biocatalysts were characterized via the electrochemical detection of the substrates, p‐nitrophenyl butyrate and 2,2‐azinobis‐3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid. For Lip@ZIF‐8 the specific activity was 91.9 U mg−1 and 123.1 U mg−1 for Lip@ZIF‐zni, while for Lac@ZIF‐8 and Lac@ZIF‐zni, the activity was 51 U mg−1 and 163 U mg−1, respectively, confirming that laccase retains a higher level of activity when immobilized onto ZIF‐zni than on ZIF‐8. Lac@ZIF‐8 was the most stable system on storage (15 days at 5 °C), retaining 94 % of initial activity, while Lip@ZIF‐zni biocatalyst had the optimal level of reusability, retaining 40 % of initial activity after five reaction cycles.
Dual Gold‐Catalyzed Formal Tetradehydro‐Diels–Alder Reactions for the Synthesis of Carbazoles and Indolines
Authors: Wang Hong‐Fa , Wang Shi‐Yue , Qin Tian‐Zhu , Zi Weiwei
Published: October 2018

This work reports a dual gold‐catalyzed tetradehydro‐Diels–Alder reaction for the synthesis of nitrogen‐containing aromatic heterocycles. Under the catalytic system (IPrAuNTf2/DIPEA), indolines and carbazoles as well as other N‐containing aromatic heterocycles were prepared in high yields with good functional group tolerance. Unlike the traditional thermal tetradehydro‐Diels–Alder reactions, diluted reaction concentration and radical prohibitors are not required for this protocol. Experimental data support a mechanism involving gold vinylidene species, which undergoes a 6 π electrocyclization, followed with 1,2‐hydrogen shift.
Activation of Molecular Hydrogen by Arylcarbenes
Authors: Mendez‐Vega Enrique , Maehara Mika , Raut Akshay Hemant , Mieres‐Perez Joel , Tsuge Masashi , Lee Yuan‐Pern , Sander Wolfram
Published: October 2018

The hydrogenation reactions of diphenylcarbene1, fluorenylidene2, and dibenzocycloheptadienylidene3were investigated in solid H2and D2matrices and in H2‐ and D2‐doped argon matrices at cryogenic temperatures. The reactivity of the carbenes towards H2increases in the order1<3<2. Whereas1is stable in solid H2,2and3react fast under the same conditions via quantum chemical tunneling. In D2both1and3are stable, whereas2slowly reacts. The different reactivity of the three carbenes is rationalized in terms of differing carbene stabilization energies.
Silyl Group‐Directed 6‐exo‐dig Iodocyclization of Homopropargylic Carbamates and Amides
Authors: Okitsu Takashi , Nakahigashi Hikaru , Sugihara Ryosuke , Fukuda Ikki , Tsuji Saki , In Yasuko , Wada Akimori
Published: October 2018

Iodocyclization of silyl group‐substituted homopropargylic carbamates and amides proceeded via 6‐exo‐dig mode to afford 6‐vinylene‐4,5‐dihydro‐1,3‐oxazines in moderate to quantitative yields. This is the first report for silyl group‐solely directed iodocyclization of alkynes utilizing the β‐silyl effect. Under these mild reaction conditions, various functionalities such as secondary alcohol, acetal, urea, and sulfide were tolerated.
Reversible Self‐Assembling of Boryl Radical Anions to Their Diradicals with Tunable Singlet Ground States
Authors: Feng Rui , Zhang Li , Chen Chao , Fang Yong , Zhao Yue , Tan Gengwen , Wang Xinping
Published: October 2018

Two novel boron‐centered diradicals based on dimesitylpyridine borane (1) were synthesized by the self‐assembling of the corresponding radical sodium and potassium salts, respectively. The sodium diradical was obtained by re‐dissolving the crystals of the radical salt 1Na in toluene, while the potassium diradical was directly obtained by the reduction of 1 with potassium in THF. The diradicals could be converted back to their radical anions in THF solution, forming a reversible process. EPR spectroscopy and SQUID measurements, together with theoretical calculations, show that the diradicals have singlet ground states with excited triplet states. Their singlet–triplet energy gaps are tunable with metals.
Cardiovascular and other competing causes of death among patients with cancer from 2006 to 2015: An Australian population‐based study
Authors: Ye Yuanzi , Otahal Petr , Marwick Thomas H. , Wills Karen E. , Neil Amanda L. , Venn Alison J.
Published: October 2018

Background

With improved cancer survivorship, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and other noncancer events compete with cancer as the underlying cause of death, but the risks of mortality in competing‐risk settings have not been well characterized.

Methods

The authors identified 21,637 individuals who had a first cancer registered between 2006 and 2013, with follow‐up to 2015, in the Australian population‐based Tasmanian Cancer Registry. The cumulative incidence of deaths from specific competing events was assessed in competing‐risk analyses. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and absolute excess risks (AERs) for deaths from noncancer causes were calculated for comparison with the general population.

Results

Overall, 8844 deaths were observed, with 1946 (22%) from competing events. The cumulative incidence of deaths from CVD increased significantly with age at first cancer diagnosis and exceeded other competing events at age ≥65 years. The risk of death from CVD was more common than expected in the first year of follow‐up (SMR, 1.44 [95% confidence interval, 1.26‐1.64]; AER, 36.8 per 10,000 person‐years). The SMR and AER for CVD deaths varied by first cancer site, indicating increased risks after a first diagnosis of lung cancer, hematologic malignancy, and urinary tract cancer. For other noncancer events, the SMRs increased significantly for deaths from infectious disease and respiratory disease and were highest in the first year of follow‐up.

Conclusions

CVD was the leading cause of competing mortality among Tasmanian patients with cancer who were diagnosed from 2006 to 2013. The higher than expected occurrence of death from CVD and other noncancer events during the first year after a cancer diagnosis highlights the importance of early preventive interventions.
Multifunctional Copper‐Based Quaternary Chalcogenide Semiconductors Toward State‐of‐the‐Art Energy Applications
Authors: Kush Priya , Deka Sasanka
Published: October 2018

Cu‐based quaternary chalcogenide semiconductors have been attractive materials in many aspects since the last decade. Most of the scientific literature about quaternary chalcogenides is dedicated to photovoltaic (PV) research with no astonishment as the material initially emerged as a cost‐effective replacement of expensive Si for PV applications. These materials possess all the important properties such as, abundant and non‐toxic constituent elements, efficient charge transport, optimum band gap, and high absorption coefficient for being an efficient PV material in either thin film or nanoparticle form. However, in the recent few years, a new range of quaternary materials Cu2MIMIIX4 (where, MI=Zn, Ni, Co, Fe, Mn, Cd and Hg; MII=Si, Sn and Ge and X=S and/or Se) have evolved and found applications in thermoelectrics, photocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis, sensors and batteries etc. The combination of properties exhibited by these quaternary chalcogenides such as optical and electric, optical and magnetic, electric and thermal makes them potential materials, which could be utilized in multiple applications. Although the PV properties of these quaternary chalcogenides has been discussed earlier in many reports, the other versatile applications of the material have not been reviewed yet. The present article sheds light on the multifunctional aspects of various new Cu‐based quaternary chalcogenides, their synthesis, effect of doping on their properties, and then elaborating the discussion on their chemical and physical properties that are helpful in different applications along with photovoltaics. Here, we discuss synthetic methods bestowing enhanced features and also summarize their achieved efficiency in recent years.
Does the Electronic Structure of Möbius Annulenes Follow Heilbronner's Ideas?
Authors: Karadakov Peter B. , Cooper David L.
Published: October 2018

It is shown, on the example of the monocyclic cyclononatetraenyl cation,
, that the fully‐variational optimization of modern ab initio wavefunctions based on spin‐coupled generalized valence bond (SCGVB) theory vindicates, in a surprising level of detail, essential features of Heilbronner's ideas for the electronic structure of Möbius annulenes such as the arrangement of overlapping carbon 2p atomic orbitals along a Möbius strip, leading to a phase inversion between the first and last orbitals. In the SCGVB description, the aromaticity of this Möbius system with eight π electrons follows from the extensive resonance between VB structures.
Rapid and Efficient Genetic Transformation of Sorghum via Agrobacterium‐Mediated Method
Authors: Do Phat Tien , Lee Hyeyoung , Nelson‐Vasilchik Kimberly , Kausch Albert , Zhang Zhanyuan J.
Published: October 2018

Genetic transformation via Agrobacterium‐mediated methodology has been used in many sorghum studies. However, the transformation efficiency still varies significantly due to high dependence on sorghum genotypes and technical expertise. In this article, we describe a sorghum transformation procedure in sufficient detail using a public genotype, P898012. This system utilizes a standard binary transgenic vector carrying the bar gene as a selectable marker and immature embryos as starting explants. Glufosinate is employed as the selective agent during callus and shoot induction. This procedure is relatively rapid, efficient, highly reproducible, and should be applicable for many other sorghum genotypes. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Unattended social wants and corporate social responsibility of leading firms: Relationship of intrinsic motivation of volunteering in proposed welfare programs and employee attributes
Authors: Hao Yunhong , Farooq Qamar , Zhang Yanni
Published: October 2018

With accelerated amelioration in service standards and expectations of stakeholders, enterprises need to undertake promising efforts for the real contribution to society. This paper is aimed to build a framework for examination of employee‐specific viability of five proposed philanthropic initiatives that can be launched by large corporations. Matchmaking, marriage arrangement, and poverty alleviation through skill development are discussed for new external corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, and anti‐sexual harassment awareness campaign at the workplace and assistance to low‐paid workers are projected as doable internal CSR initiatives. This article describes the importance of potential CSR activities with chief emphasis on exploring the impact of intrinsic motivation for volunteering of each proposed CSR program on employee's vital work attitudes. Drawing implications to advance the literature, we have developed the hypotheses that have formulated a testable model. On practical front, our work highlights the crucial need to consider implementation of new CSR programs with effective conceptualization of employee motivation and organizational outcomes.
Does it pay to be forthcoming? Evidence from CSR disclosure and equity market liquidity
Authors: Egginton Jared F. , McBrayer Garrett A.
Published: October 2018

We examine the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure strategies on equity market liquidity. Using data on CSR disclosure from Bloomberg, we find that equity market liquidity improves as firms increase their CSR disclosure transparency. Specifically, firms with more transparent CSR disclosure strategies have narrower spreads and exhibit improvements in common measures of equity market liquidity. Additionally, we document that improvements in equity market liquidity occur contemporaneously with changes in firms' CSR disclosure strategies, suggesting that markets respond to the transparent disclosure of CSR initiatives without necessarily knowing the ultimate efficacy of the initiative itself. We condition our findings on firm transparency and provide evidence that CSR disclosure transparency acts to reduce information asymmetry, thus acting as the mechanism to improve equity market liquidity. Overall, our results suggest that CSR disclosure transparency leads to reductions in asymmetric information, ultimately making financial markets more equitable.
The importance of official certifications in globalized companies' performance: An empirical approach to the shipbuilding industry
Authors: Para‐González Lorena , Mascaraque‐Ramírez Carlos
Published: October 2018

Companies belonging to broadly globalized sectors are looking for keys and guidelines that will allow them to stand out from their competitors in order to win the contracts tendered on a global scale. The study conducted in this research has found the importance of following the principles of the standards of Environmental Management (EM; ISO 14001), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR; ISO 26000), Quality Management (QM; ISO 9001), and Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series (OSHAS 18001) in the shipbuilding industry and its relationship with firms' performance. This research proposes a new measurement index that evaluates the degree of certification of the industry over time regarding EM, CSR, QM, and Occupational Health, demonstrating a link between the evolution of companies' results (in terms of orderbooks, completions, and new orders) and the implantation of official certifications and their maturity (time elapsed since certification).