bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphorus Particles Embedded in Reduced Graphene Oxide Matrix to Enhance Capacity and Rate Capability for Capacitive Potassium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Wang Hong , Wang Lifeng , Wang Liancheng , Xing Zheng , Wu Xuan , Zhao Wei , Qi Xiujun , Ju Zhicheng , Zhuang Quanchao
Published: July 2018

Early studies indicate that graphite is feasible as the negative electrode of a potassium‐ion battery, but its electrochemical performance still cannot meet the demands of applications. More efforts should be focused on increasing the specific capacity and improving the rate capability in the meantime. Thus, stainless‐steel autoclave technology has been utilized to prepare phosphorus nanoparticles encapsulated in reduced graphene oxide matrix as the electrode materials for a potassium‐ion battery. As a result, the composite matrix affords high reversible capacities of 354 and 253 mA h g−1 at 100 and 500 mA g−1, respectively. The superior electrochemical performance is mainly because the composite matrix possesses better electronic conductivity and a robust structure, which can promote the electron‐transfer performance of the electrode. Furthermore, phosphorus particles can contribute to the high capacity through an alloying mechanism. In addition, the silklike, ultrathin, film composite with a high surface area is conducive to capacitive potassium‐ion storage, which plays a more important role in rate performance and a high current density capability.
Bacteria Elimination and SO2 Filtration Using Spacer Fabric Loaded With Natural Zeolite‐Nanosilver Composites
Authors: Shirmohammadi‐Bahadoran Mohammad Mehdi , Montazer Majid , Kamali Dolatabadi Mehdi , Bahador Abbas
Published: July 2018

A spacer polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabric is produced for SO2 elimination along with antibacterial properties as textile filter. The silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are first in‐situ synthesized on natural zeolite (Z) by wet chemical reduction using silver nitrate and sodium borohydride at room temperature. The prepared composite powder is characterized by energy dispersive X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Z/AgNPs powder is uniformly fabricated on the spacer polyester fabric through a new electro‐deposition method. It is then cured at 160 °C for 3 min and named PET‐Z/AgNPs. SO2 adsorption of PET‐Z/AgNPs is confirmed using a gas analyzer. The ability of the treated fabric to eliminate airborne Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a Gram‐negative bacterium, and Staphylococcus aureus, a Gram‐positive bacterium, is also evaluated using the modified shake flask method (AATCC‐100). No bacterial growth is observed on PET‐Z/AgNPs after 2 h. Furthermore, the breakthrough time of the treated fabric for SO2 with 5 ppm concentration was 12 min at room temperature. In addition, the treated 3D filter fabric shows suitable air permeability for application in air filtration systems.
Mixed‐Mode Remediation of Cadmium and Arsenate Ions Using Graphene‐Based Materials
Authors: Lath Supriya , Navarro Divina , Tran Diana , Kumar Anu , Losic Dusan , McLaughlin Michael J.
Published: July 2018

Cadmium (Cd) and arsenate (As) are notorious environmental contaminants, and co‐contamination usually requires opposing treatment strategies due to their differing physico‐chemical properties. Developing adsorbents that can bind both contrasting contaminants simultaneously is desirable. Two prepared graphene materials, graphene oxide (GO) and iron‐oxide‐modified reduced‐GO (FeG), are evaluated for Cd‐ and As‐sorption, and performance is compared to a mixed‐mode commercial adsorbent. Negatively charged GO shows affinity toward cationic Cd, and positively charged FeG shows affinity toward anionic As. Sorption is pH dependent: Increase in pH‐promotes Cd‐sorption and retards As‐sorption. GO displays excellent Cd‐sorption even in acidic conditions. The maximum amounts adsorbed by GO and FeG are 782 μmol Cd g−1 and 408 μmol As g−1, respectively. Competition by calcium strongly suppresses Cd‐sorption, whereas competition by phosphate does not hinder As‐sorption. A mixture of GO and FeG demonstrates successful simultaneous sorption of Cd and As from co‐contaminated solutions, including a natural water sample, displaying greater sorption than the commercial adsorbent. Data highlight the potential application of graphene materials in effective mixed‐mode remediation of multiple contaminants (cations and anions).
Inexpensive but Highly Efficient Co–Mn Mixed‐Oxide Catalysts for Selective Oxidation of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic Acid
Authors: Rao Kasanneni Tirumala Venkateswara , Rogers Jennifer Lorraine , Souzanchi Sadra , Dessbesell Luana , Ray Madhumita Bhowmick , Xu Chunbao (Charles)
Published: July 2018

A highly active and inexpensive Co–Mn mixed‐oxide catalyst was prepared and used for selective oxidation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) into 2, 5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA). Co–Mn mixed‐oxide catalysts with different Co/Mn molar ratios were prepared through a simple solid‐state grinding method—a low‐cost and green catalyst preparation method. The activity of these catalysts was evaluated for selective aerobic oxidation of HMF into FDCA in water. Excellent HMF conversion (99 %) and FDCA yield (95 % ) were obtained under the best reaction conditions (i.e., 120 °C, 5 h, Co–Mn mixed‐oxide catalyst with a Co/Mn molar ratio of 0.25 calcined at 300 °C (Co‐Mn‐0.25) and 1 MPa O2). The catalyst could be reused five times without a significant decrease in activity. The results demonstrated that the catalytic activity and selectivity of the Co–Mn mixed‐oxide catalysts prepared through solid‐state grinding were superior to the same Co–Mn catalyst prepared through a conventional coprecipitation method. The high catalytic activity of the Co‐Mn‐0.25 catalyst was attributed to its high lattice oxygen mobility and the presence of different valence states of manganese. The high activity and low cost of the Co–Mn mixed‐oxide catalysts prepared by solid‐state grinding make it promising for industrial application for the manufacturing of polyethylene furanoate, a bioreplacement for polyethylene terephthalate, from sustainable bioresources.
Measurement error of state variables creates substantial bias in results of demographic population models
Authors: Louthan Allison , Doak Daniel
Published: July 2018

Integral projection and matrix population models are commonly used in ecological and conservation studies to assess the health and extinction risk of populations. These models use one (or more) measurable state variable(s), such as size or age, to predict individual performance, which, ideally, is the sole determinant of an individual's expected fate. However, even if ecologists successfully identify and measure the observable state variable(s) that best predicts individual fate, we are rarely, if ever, able to perfectly measure state for many species, especially those with size structure, where total plant biomass or starch stores, for example, may be the best predictors of fate. Here, we used a series of simulations to test how this imperfect quantification of actual state (“measurement error”) leads to inaccurate prediction of state‐dependent fates and influences the predictions of structured population models. We simulated 10 yr of best practice field data collection using known vital rate functions and incorporated measurement error of different magnitudes and types (completely random, temporal, and individual based) for two size‐structured life histories. We found that even for conservative error rates, most types of measurement error increased the median predicted population growth rate by 1–2% growth per year. However, the magnitude of this error differed substantially with life history strategy and error type, with some scenarios resulting in >8% median overestimation of population growth rate. This effect arises largely from the well‐known econometrics problem of “regression dilution” (overestimation of the intercept and underestimation of the slope of a regression when the predictor variable is measured with error), which in our simulations typically results in overly optimistic predictions of small or young individuals’ vital rates. Our results suggest that the problem of measurement error for state variables, present in many demographic studies but virtually unacknowledged in the ecological literature, may lead to substantial misestimation of population behavior, resulting in erroneous inferences about not only growth, but also extinction risk and other aspects of population dynamics.
Electrochemically Active Phosphotungstic Acid Assisted Prevention of Graphene Restacking for High‐Capacitance Supercapacitors
Authors: He Chengen , Qiu Shengqiang , Sun Shan , Zhang Qing , Lin Guanyu , Lei Sheng , Han Xiaoyan , Yang Yingkui
Published: July 2018

Direct reduction of graphene oxide usually leads to the agglomeration of the as‐generated graphene sheets, thus suppressing the surface exposed for energy storage. Herein, graphene oxide was reduced by a one‐pot hydrothermal process in the presence of an electrochemically active phosphotungstic acid to produce three‐dimensional porous phosphotungstic acid/reduced graphene oxide composites. Phosphotungstic acid molecules were found to be uniformly anchored on the surface of reduced graphene oxide sheets through the electrostatic interaction to prevent the reduced graphene oxide sheets from restacking. Meanwhile, phosphotungstic acid has the capability of undergoing fast reversible multi‐electron redox reactions and hence providing the pseudocapacitance. As expected, phosphotungstic acid/reduced graphene oxide composites display the specific capacitance as high as 456.7 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1 and 363.8 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, which are much larger than those obtained in reduced graphene oxide (162.4 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1 and 190.6 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1). The retention also maintains 82.9% of initial specific capacitance after 1000 charge/discharge cycles. Such excellent electrochemical performance comes from the three‐dimensional porous architecture and synergistic interaction between the pseudocapacitive phosphotungstic acid and electric double‐layer capacitive graphene.
Effects of Linoleic and Alpha‐Linolenic Ratios and Concentrations on In Vitro Endothelial Cell Responses
Authors: Yang Ligang , Song Zhixiu , Wang Feng , Xia Hui , Liu Hechun , Shu Guofang , Lu Huixia , Wang Shaokang , Sun Guiju
Published: July 2018

Although many studies have found that two essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (LA; n‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acid, PUFA) and α‐linolenic acid (ALA; n‐3 PUFA), are closely related to the occurrence and development of cardiovascular disease (CVD), the effects of LA and ALA ratios and concentrations on CVD risk are not well known. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of various LA/ALA ratios (1:1, 5:1, 10:1, and 20:1) and their concentrations on inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial cell functions, and the mechanism in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (EA.hy926 cell line). The results indicate that low LA/ALA ratio might provide CVD benefits at low PUFA concentration while low LA/ALA ratio (1:1) increases CVD risk at high PUFA concentration. The results show that the effects of LA and ALA on inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial cell functions, and the related gene expression are influenced by not only LA/ALA ratios but also their concentrations, and the mechanism may be mediated through PKCα/NF‐κB inflammatory and NO/eNOS signaling pathways by regulation of the NOX4 pathway.

Practical Applications: Lipid metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial cell functions play an important role in the pathogenesis of CVD, which may be affected by an imbalance in the LA/ALA ratio. However, the effects of LA/ALA ratios on CVD risk are influenced by PUFA concentrations. The study provides a method to design diets beneficial for CVD prevention.

The low LA/ALA ratio (1:1) could up‐regulate increase the gene expression level of PKCα and eNOS gene while NF‐κB and NOX4 gene expression levels are up‐regulated to increase oxidative stress, which could cause the oxidation of BH4 and uncoupling of eNOS under high PUFA concentration. Uncoupling eNOS generated , instead of NO, which could damage vascular endothelial cell function. This is different from the role of eNOS in the production of NO under normal physiological conditions, which shows the duality of eNOS on atherosclerosis. The results indicate both LA and ALA ratios and concentrations are important for CVD risk.
GATA3 as a master regulator and therapeutic target in ovarian high‐grade serous carcinoma stem cells
Authors: Chen Hsiang‐Ju , Huang Rui‐Lan , Liew Phui‐Ly , Su Po‐Hsuan , Chen Lin‐Yu , Weng Yu‐Chun , Chang Cheng‐Chang , Wang Yu‐Chi , Chan Michael Wing‐Yan , Lai Hung‐Cheng
Published: July 2018

Ovarian high‐grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy. Prevailing evidences suggest that drug resistance and recurrence of ovarian HGSC are caused by the presence of cancer stem cells. Therefore, targeting cancer stems is appealing, however, all attempts to date, have failed. To circumvent this limit, we analyzed differential transcriptomes at early differentiation of ovarian HGSC stem cells and identified the developmental transcription factor GATA3 as highly expressed in stem, compared to progenitor cells. GATA3 expression associates with poor prognosis of ovarian HGSC patients, and was found to recruit the histone H3, lysine 27 (H3K27) demethylase, UTX, activate stemness markers, and promote stem‐like phenotypes in ovarian HGSC cell lines. Targeting UTX by its inhibitor, GSKJ4, impeded GATA3‐driven stemness phenotypes, and enhanced apoptosis of GATA3‐expressing cancer cells. Combinations of gemcitabine or paclitaxel with GSKJ4, resulted in a synergistic cytotoxic effect. Our findings provide evidence for a new role for GATA3 in ovarian HGSC stemness, and demonstrate that GATA3 may serve as a biomarker for precision epigenetic therapy in the future.
Toward a real liquid biopsy in metastatic breast and prostate cancer: Diagnostic LeukApheresis increases CTC yields in a European prospective multicenter study (CTCTrap)
Authors: Andree Kiki C. , Mentink Anouk , Zeune Leonie L. , Terstappen Leon W.M.M. , Stoecklein Nikolas H. , Neves Rui P. , Driemel Christiane , Lampignano Rita , Yang Liwen , Neubauer Hans , Fehm Tanja , Fischer Johannes C. , Rossi Elisabetta , Manicone Mariangela , Basso Umberto , Marson Piero , Zamarchi Rita , Loriot Yohann , Lapierre Valerie , Faugeroux Vincent , Oulhen Marianne , Farace Françoise , Fowler Gemma , Sousa Fontes Mariane , Ebbs Berni , Lambros Maryou , Crespo Mateus , Flohr Penny , de Bono Johann S.
Published: July 2018

Frequently, the number of circulating tumor cells (CTC) isolated in 7.5 mL of blood is too small to reliably determine tumor heterogeneity and to be representative as a “liquid biopsy”. In the EU FP7 program CTCTrap, we aimed to validate and optimize the recently introduced Diagnostic LeukApheresis (DLA) to screen liters of blood. Here we present the results obtained from 34 metastatic cancer patients subjected to DLA in the participating institutions. About 7.5 mL blood processed with CellSearch® was used as “gold standard” reference. DLAs were obtained from 22 metastatic prostate and 12 metastatic breast cancer patients at four different institutions without any noticeable side effects. DLA samples were prepared and processed with different analysis techniques. Processing DLA using CellSearch resulted in a 0–32 fold increase in CTC yield compared to processing 7.5 mL blood. Filtration of DLA through 5 μm pores microsieves was accompanied by large CTC losses. Leukocyte depletion of 18 mL followed by CellSearch yielded an increase of the number of CTC but a relative decrease in yield (37%) versus CellSearch DLA. In four out of seven patients with 0 CTC detected in 7.5 mL of blood, CTC were detected in DLA (range 1–4 CTC). The CTC obtained through DLA enables molecular characterization of the tumor. CTC enrichment technologies however still need to be improved to isolate all the CTC present in the DLA.
Donor lymphocyte infusion leads to diversity of specific T cell responses and reduces regulatory T cell frequency in clinical responders
Authors: Hofmann Susanne , Schmitt Michael , Götz Marlies , Döhner Hartmut , Wiesneth Markus , Bunjes Donald , Greiner Jochen
Published: July 2018

T cell responses against malignant cells play a major role in maintaining remission and prolonging overall survival in patients after allogeneic stem cell transplantation and donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) due to graft‐versus‐leukemia effect. For better characterization of the T cell responses, we assessed frequency and diversity of leukemia‐associated antigen (LAA)‐specific cytotoxic T cells using ELISpot and pMHC multimer assays and analyzed the frequency of regulatory T cells (Treg) as well as cytokine profiles before/after DLI. The data were correlated to the clinical course of patients. Significantly more LAA‐derived T cell epitopes (p = 0.02) were recognized in clinical responders (R) when compared to nonresponders (NR). In addition, pMHC multimer‐based flow cytometry showed a significantly higher frequency of LAA‐specific T cells in R versus NR. The frequency of Treg in R decreased significantly (p = 0.008) while keeping stable in NR. No differences in T cell subset analysis before/after DLI were revealed. Clinical responders were correlated to specific immune responses and all clinical responders showed an increase of specific immune responses after DLI. Cytokine assays using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay showed a significant increase of IL‐4 after DLI. Taken together, an increase of specific CTL responses against several LAA after DLI was detected. Moreover, this study suggests that enhanced LAA diversity in T cell responses as well as decreasing numbers of Treg contribute to clinical outcome of patients treated with DLI.
Statin therapy and association with ovarian cancer risk in the New England Case Control (NEC) study
Authors: Akinwunmi Babatunde , Vitonis Allison F. , Titus Linda , Terry Kathryn L. , Cramer Daniel W.
Published: July 2018

Statins are widely used to lower blood cholesterol and reduce risk for cardiovascular diseases, but attention has recently focused on a role in cancer prevention or therapy. Here we present data from a large case–control study addressing whether statin use can lower the risk for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Between 1992 and 2008, data including medications used for at least 6 months were collected from 2,040 cases with EOC and 2,100 frequency‐matched controls without the disease who participated in the New England Case Control study. We used unconditional logistic regression controlling for matching factors and potential confounders to examine the association between statin use and the risk for EOC. Overall, women who used statins had 32% lower risk of ovarian cancer compared to non‐users (Odds ratio (OR) 0.68, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.54–0.85), adjusting for the matching factors and other covariates. The reduced risk was most apparent in women taking a lipophilic statin who began use after age 49, and who had used them 2–4.9 years. Statin use was associated with lower risks for both serous and non‐serous histologic subtypes with the strongest effect seen for mucinous and mixed epithelial subtypes. The association became apparent about a decade after the introduction of statins and did not appear to be confounded by indications for use of statins or medications used concomitantly. In this case–control study, statins were found to lower the risk for both serous and non‐serous EOC and especially mucinous EOC.
Teaching installation and use of child passenger safety restraints
Authors: Giannakakos Antonia R. , Vladescu Jason C. , Simon Rachel
Published: July 2018

Correctly installed child passenger safety restraints may reduce the risk of child injury and death during accidents. The present study evaluated behavioral skills training and self‐monitoring to teach correct installation and use of a child passenger safety restraint in the rear‐facing position. Extension probes were conducted with untrained installations and harnessing positions. Training was successful in teaching participants all installation methods and harnessing positions.
Genetic diagnosis for X‐linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia family with a novel Ectodysplasin A gene mutation
Authors: Ma Xin , Lv Xue , Liu Hong‐yan , Wu Xing , Wang Li , Li Hao , Chou Hai‐yan
Published: July 2018

Aim

To make a gene diagnosis for a family with Ectodysplasin A (EDA) gene mutation as well as prenatal diagnosis, and report a novel EDA gene mutation.

Methods

All coding sequences and flanking sequences of EDA gene were analyzed by Sanger sequencing in the proband, and then, according to EDA gene mutation in the proband, the EDA gene sequencing was performed on the family members. Based on the results above, the pathogenic mutation in EDA gene was finally identified, which was used for making prenatal diagnosis.

Results

Sanger sequencing revealed c.302_303delCC [p.Pro101HisfsX11] mutation in EDA gene of the proband. This mutation induced EDA gene frame shift mutation which led to early termination of EDA gene translation because there was a termination codon TAA at the 11th codon behind the mutational site. Heterozygous deletion mutation (CC/‐‐) at this locus was observed in the proband's mother and proband's grandmother, but the proband's aunt had no mutation at this locus. The analyses of amniotic fluid samples indicated negative sex‐determining region on Y (SRY), and c.302_303delCC heterozygous deletion mutation.

Conclusion

We identified a pathogenetic mutation in EDA gene for the X‐linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia family, made a prenatal diagnosis for the female carrier, and reported a novel EDA gene mutation.
Comparison of two commercial quality control sera for adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) used in Elecsys® immunoassay system
Authors: Wu Zhi‐Qi , Xu Hua‐Guo
Published: July 2018

Objectives

The purpose of our study was to investigate whether the storage time and temperature of internal quality control (IQC) material influence the result of ACTH in IQC measurements.

Design and methods

Five levels of IQC materials from two manufacturers were tested through the precision of ACTH, the three freeze/thaw cycles, and the storage time and temperature to evaluate the stability of IQC material. All commercial control materials were simultaneously tested three times a day for five consecutive days.

Results

Total precision of three levels of Bio‐Rad IQC sera was 13.93%, 16.45%, and 15.98%, respectively, but repeatability was <2%. The concentration of ACTH decreased by 30%‐50% after 3 freeze/thaw cycles. At room temperature, the concentration of ACTH from 3 levels decreased by 16.60%, 17.98%, and 17.20%, respectively, after 0.5 hours, and 70.54%, 74.36%, and 72.03%, respectively, after 4 hours. However, after 2 hours of storage at 4°C, the decline in the measured ACTH IQC was 8.04%, 11.84%, and 10.11%, respectively. Total precision of Roche IQC was 1.17% and 1.08%, respectively. After 3 freeze/thaw cycles, the concentration of ACTH decreased <5%. After 4 hours, the change of ACTH still steadied within 5% both at the room temperature and at 4°C.

Conclusion

Roche is a better choice for ACTH of IQC material in Elecsys® immunoassay system in our study. If Bio‐Rad control materials be used in Elecsys® immunoassay system for ACTH IQC testing material, it should be stored at 4°C and testing should be completed within 1 hours.
Association of HLA‐DQA1 gene polymorphisms with the risk of children primary nephrotic syndrome in Chinese population
Authors: Zhu Bingbing , Zhang Ruifeng , Yang Huandan , Yuan Tingting , Lv Juan , Peng Qianqian , Tian Lijun
Published: July 2018

Background

The association between gene polymorphisms and the risk of primary nephrotic syndrome (PNS) is uncovering recently. This study aims to investigate the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on HLA‐DQA1 gene and the risk of PNS.

Methods

In this study, we genotyped eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the HLA‐DQA1 gene in 501 PNS patients and 532 healthy people in Chinese population. Then we analyzed associations of these SNPs with the clinical features in primary nephrotic syndrome of children in Chinese population.

Results

Significant associations with PNS were found on missense SNP rs1129740 (GG vs AA, odds ratio (OR) = 1.987, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.468‐2.652, P = 0.00177049) and rs1047992 (AA vs GG, OR = 1.857, 95% CI = 1.325‐2.391, P = 1.1073E‐10) of the HLA‐DQA1 gene.

Conclusions

This work suggests SNPs of HLA‐DQA1 are risk factors for PNS in Chinese population, which implies roles of immune response in the pathogenesis of PNS.
Tetraethylene Glycol Tethered Heteronuclear Bis‐isatin Derivatives: Design, Synthesis, and In Vitro Anti‐mycobacterial Activities
Authors: Zhao Shuang‐Qi , Xu Yan , Guan Jianguo , Zhao Shijia , Zhang Guang‐De , Xu Zhi
Published: July 2018

A series of novel tetraethylene glycol tethered heteronuclear bis‐isatin derivatives 7a–l were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their in vitro anti‐mycobacterial activities against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) H37Rv and multidrug‐resistant TB (MDR‐TB) as well as cytotoxicity in VERO cell line. All hybrids exhibited potential anti‐mycobacterial activities against MTB H37Rv and MDR‐TB, and acceptable cytotoxicity. Among them, the heteronuclear bis‐isatin 7l [minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC): 16 and 16 μg/mL] was found to be most active against MTB H37Rv and MDR‐TB strains, which was 2‐fold and >8‐fold, respectively, more potent than were the first‐line anti‐tubercular agents rifampicin (MIC: 32 μg/mL) and isoniazid (MIC: >128 μg/mL) against MDR‐TB, also demonstrated acceptable cytotoxicity profile (CC50: 62.5 μg/mL), could act as a starting point for further optimization.
A Convenient Synthesis and Biological Research of Novel 5,6,7,8‐Tetrahydro‐1,6‐naphthyridin‐2(1H)‐one Derivatives Hydrochloride as Cytotoxic Agents
Authors: Xu Guiqing , Gao Yuan , Sun Bin , Peng Lizeng , Mao Longfei , Jiang Yuqin , Ding Qingjie
Published: July 2018

A series of 5,6,7,8‐tetrahydro‐1,6‐naphthyridin‐2(1H)‐one derivatives hydrochloride were obtained using a convenient and mild method from 4‐piperidone monohydrate hydrochloride. The newly synthesized compounds and their derivatives were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Furthermore, cytotoxicity in vitro of the synthesized compounds were screened using MTT or CCK8 assay. The results showed that some of the compounds showed potential antitumor activity. Among of them, compound 10a had effects against tumor cells (MOLM‐13), and the half maximal inhibitory concentration value was 76 μmol/L.
An efficient synthesis of trace amine‐associated receptor agonist [1‐14C]tyramine
Authors: Filer Crist N. , Orphanos Demetri
Published: July 2018

The 2‐step synthesis of [1‐14C]tyramine hydrochloride is described with the product being characterized by TLC, HPLC, and UV spectroscopy. Several methods are provided to purify [1‐14C]tyramine hydrochloride, and its storage and stability are also discussed.
The implementation of a haptic feedback virtual reality simulation clinic with dynamic patient interaction and communication for medical imaging students
Authors: Sapkaroski Daniel , Baird Marilyn , McInerney John , Dimmock Matthew R.
Published: July 2018

Introduction

An immersive virtual reality (VR) simulation clinic with dynamic patient interaction and communication was developed to facilitate the training of medical radiation science students. The software “CETSOL VR Clinic” was integrated into the Medical Imaging programme at Monash University in 2016 in order to benchmark student experiences against existing simulation techniques (Shaderware™).

Methods

An iterative approach to development, based on two cycles of user feedback, was used to develop and refine the simulated clinical environment. This environment uses realistic 3D models, embedded clinical scenarios, dynamic communication, 3D hand gesture interaction, gaze and positional stereoscopic tracking and online user capabilities using the Unity™ game and physics engines. Students’ perceptions of educational enhancement of their positioning skills following the use of the simulation tools were analysed via a 5‐point Likert scale questionnaire.

Results

Student perception scores indicated a significant difference between simulation modalities in favour of the immersive CETSOL VR Clinic, χ2 (4, N = 92) = 9.5, P‐value <0.001.

Conclusion

Student perception scores on improvement of their clinical and technical skills were higher for the hand‐positioning tasks performed with the CETSOL VR Clinic™ than with the comparative benchmark simulation that did not provide dynamic patient interaction and communication.
Clinico‐radiographic evaluation of 1% alendronate gel as an adjunct and smart blood derivative platelet rich fibrin in grade II furcation defects
Authors: Wanikar Ishita , Rathod Surekha , Kolte Abhay P.
Published: July 2018

Background

The treatment of molar furcation involvement is unpredictable due to the complex anatomy and poor access for instrumentation. Previous studies have reported successful regeneration with endogenous regenerative material such as platelet rich fibrin (PRF) and bisphosphonates as alendronate (ALN). Hence, the present study was aimed to evaluate clinically and radiographically the efficacy of 1% ALN gel in combination with PRF (PRF+ALN) and PRF alone in the treatment of grade II furcation defects.

Methods

A split mouth study with 40 bilateral furcation defects was randomly divided into PRF group and PRF+ALN group. Bone defect volume was the primary outcome evaluated at the end of 6 months with CBCT while the secondary outcomes being changes in clinical parameters including Probing pocket depth (PPD), Clinical attachment level (CAL) and Horizontal probing depth (HPD) recorded at baseline, 3 and 6 months.

Results

The mean reduction in PPD, CAL and HPD was 1.85 ± 0.59 mm, 1.9 ± 0.64 mm and 1.7 ± 0.73 mm respectively for PRF group and 2.85 ± 0.88 mm, 3.05 ± 0.98 mm and 2.3 ± 0.73 mm respectively for PRF+ ALN group (p < 0.05). At the end of 6 months, mean reduction in bone defect volume for PRF and PRF+ ALN group was 8.65 ± 3.84 mm3 and 11.98 ± 4.13 mm3 respectively.

Conclusion

PRF+ ALN treated defects exhibited better clinical and radiographic outcomes suggestive of enhanced periodontal regeneration when compared to PRF alone treated sites.
Handgrip strength and the number of teeth among Korean population
Authors: Shin Hye‐Sun
Published: July 2018

Background

Handgrip strength is easily assessed by muscle strength and is an important factor for health and physical performance. Empirical evidence for the association between the number of teeth and handgrip strength remains controversial. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between the number of teeth and handgrip strength.

Methods

Data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) 2014 to 2015 were used (N = 7,741). The number of teeth was categorized into three groups: 0 to 9 teeth, 10 to 19 teeth, and 20 to 28 teeth. Handgrip strength of the participants was measured using a digital hand dynamometer. Multivariate linear regression and logistic regression models were fitted to assess the association between the number of teeth and hand grip strength after adjusting for sociodemographic factors, general health behaviors, and oral and general health factors.

Results

Reduced handgrip strength was much more frequent in male and female participants with a lower number of teeth. Each tooth increased handgrip strength by 0.12 kg and 0.07 kg in males and females, respectively (P < 0.001 for both males and females). The association between the number of teeth and handgrip strength disappeared in females in the fully adjusted models, but the odds ratio of participants with 0 to 9 teeth was 1.73 (95% confidence interval: 1.02 to 2.95), which was higher than the reference group in males.

Conclusion

Our results showed a significant association between the number of teeth and handgrip strength in Korean adults.
Does lactic fermentation influence soy yogurt protein digestibility: a comparative study between soymilk and soy yogurt at different pH
Authors: Rui Xin , Zhang Qiuqin , Huang Jin , Li Wei , Chen Xiaohong , Jiang Mei , Dong Mingsheng
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Lactic acid bacteria fermentation allows soymilk to form a yogurt‐like product accompanied by protein acidic coagulation. It is not known whether the coagulation of soy protein during fermentation influences protein digestibility when ingested. In the present study, soymilk (pH 6.3) and soy yogurt (SY) at different pH (6.0, 5.7, 5.4 and 5.1) were subjected to in vitro gastrointestinal digestion (GIS) and a comparison study was conducted.

RESULTS

Lactic fermentation allowed the pH of soymilk to reduce gradually to 5.1 in 330.0 min. A decline in pH resulted in the volume‐weighted mean diameters D[4,3] and D[v,90] increasing from 0.81 to 97 µm and 1.82 to 273 µm, respectively. Predominant proteins lost their solubility between pH 6.0 and 5.7. Application of GIS allowed SY samples, especially SY‐5.7, SY‐5.4 and SY‐5.1, to reveal particles with a predominant peak at approximately 10 µm and also lower soluble proteins compared to soymilk, with reduction percentages of 18%, 28% and 43%. The cleavage pattern of soy protein during GIS was scarcely affected by the sample pH. However, a lower quantity of the band at 33.9 kDa was found in SY‐5.7, SY‐5.4 and SY‐5.1.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study demonstrate that lactic fermentation altered soy protein digestibility. With the process of protein coagulation, SY‐5.7, 5.4 and 5.1 had a lower bioaccessible protein content compared to that of soymilk. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Chromatographic method for the simultaneous quantification of dapsone and clofazimine in nanoformulations
Authors: Machado Sandia , Fernandes Sara R. , Chaves Luise L. , Lima Sofia A. C. , Silva Eduarda M. P. , Barreiros Luísa , Reis Salette , Segundo Marcela A.
Published: July 2018

The low bioavailability and nonspecific distribution of dapsone and clofazimine, commonly applied in combination for the treatment of leprosy, can produce toxic effects. Nanotechnological approaches enhance the delivery of these drugs. Therefore, a high‐performance liquid chromatography method was developed for the simultaneous determination of dapsone and clofazimine loaded in nanoformulations for quality control purposes. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a reversed‐phase Kinetex core‐shell C18 column, followed by spectrophotometric detection at 280 nm. Considering the different physicochemical properties of dapsone and clofazimine, elution was performed in gradient mode using an aqueous acetate buffer (50 mmol/L, pH 4.8) and an increasing acetonitrile content from 27 to 63% v/v at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min with retention times of 6.2 and 14.0 min, respectively. The method was validated according to the European Medicines Agency guideline and it was found to be specific, accurate (99.6–114.0%), and precise for intra‐ (RSD ≤ 1.8%) and interday assays (RSD ≤ 12.5%). Both drugs showed stability after 24 h at room temperature and over three freeze–thaw cycles with recoveries ≥86.2%. Low temperature (4°C) in the autosampler caused the precipitation of clofazimine and must be avoided. The validated method was successfully applied in the quantification of both drugs in nanoformulations.
Do composition and diversity of bacterial communities and abiotic conditions of spring water reflect characteristics of groundwater ecosystems exposed to different agricultural activities?
Authors: Karczewski Karsten , Göbel Patricia , Meyer Elisabeth I.
Published: July 2018

Modern agricultural practices have undeniably increased global food production. On the other hand, agricultural practices not only lead to a degradation of natural ecosystems but also affect the functioning of ecosystems and the related services they provide. Even though impacts of anthropogenic activities vary across ecosystems, freshwater ecosystems are among those affected to a higher degree. In comparison to surface water ecosystems, groundwater ecosystems are less affected by anthropogenic pollutants, as the overlaying soil retains organic and inorganic substances. However, it has become evident that the excessive use of fertilizers has led to the eutrophication of many aquifers. Bacterial communities, which significantly contribute to the cycling of matter due to their metabolic capacities, are prone to environmental perturbations, and structural variation of bacterial communities may consequently affect the functioning of groundwater ecosystems. Our present paper intends to evaluate the impact of anthropogenic activities on environmental conditions as well as on the structural properties of bacterial communities in groundwater. We repeatedly sampled emerging groundwater at five spring sites belonging to different catchments and determined the concentration of abiotic variables as well as the diversity and composition of bacterial communities on a local scale. We hypothesized that anthropogenic activities influence the concentration of abiotic variables, especially of nitrate, as well as the composition and diversity of bacterial communities in groundwater. Our results show that underground spring catchment areas only slightly differ regarding the concentration of abiotic variables as well as the structure of bacterial communities. Furthermore, abiotic variables, presumably influenced by anthropogenic activities, do not correlate with the diversity and composition of bacterial communities. Although supported only by circumstantial evidence, we suggest that upwelling groundwater from the deeper aquifer affects the diversity and composition of bacterial communities, and we argue that bacterial communities act as useful indicators for environmental changes.
Impact of interfractional motion on hypofractionated pencil beam scanning proton therapy and VMAT delivery for prostate cancer
Authors: Moteabbed Maryam , Trofimov Alexei , Khan Fazal H. , Wang Yi , Sharp Gregory C. , Zietman Anthony L. , Efstathiou Jason A. , Lu Hsiao‐Ming
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Hypofractionated radiotherapy of prostate cancer is gaining clinical acceptance given its potential increase in therapeutic ratio and evidence for noninferiority and lack of added late toxicities compared to conventional fractionation. However, concerns have been raised that smaller number of fractions might lead to larger dosimetric influence by interfractional motion. We aim to compare the effect of these variations on hypofractionated pencil beam scanning (PBS) proton therapy and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for localized prostate cancer.

Methods

Weekly CT images were acquired for 6 patients participating in a randomized clinical trial. PBS plans featuring bilateral (BL) and a combination of lateral and anterior‐oblique beams (AOL), and VMAT plans were created. All patients were treated to a conventional 79.2 Gy total dose in 44 fractions. For this study, hypofractionated dose to the prostate gland was 51.6 Gy in 12 fractions or 36.25 Gy in 5 fractions, and 32.8, and 23.1 Gy to proximal seminal vesicles, respectively. Patients were simulated with endorectal balloons to aid gland immobilization. Three fiducial markers were implanted for setup guidance. All plans were recomputed on the weekly CT images after aligning with the simulation CT. The entire set of 9 CT images was used for dose recalculation for 12‐fraction and only 5 used for the 5‐fraction case. Adaptive range adjustments were applied to anterior‐oblique beams assuming clinical availability of in vivo range verification. Fractional doses were summed using deformable dose accumulation to approximate the delivered dose. Biologically equivalent dose to 2 Gy(EQD2) was calculated assuming α/β of 1.5 Gy for prostate and 3 Gy for bladder and rectum.

Results

The median delivered prostate D98 was 0.13/0.14/0.13 Gy(EQD2) smaller than planned for PBS‐BL, 0.13/0.27/0.17 Gy(EQD2) for PBS‐AOL and 0.59/0.66/0.59 Gy(EQD2) for VMAT, for 44/12/5 fractions, respectively. The largest D98 reduction was 1.5 and 3.5 Gy(EQD2) for CTV1 and CTV2, respectively. Target dose degradation was comparable for all fractionation schemes within each modality. The maximum increase in rectum D2 was 0.98 Gy(EQD2) for a 5‐fraction PBS case.

Conclusions

The robustness of PBS and VMAT were comparable for all patients for the studied fractionations. The delivered target dose generally remained within clinical tolerance and the deviations were relatively minor for both fractionation schemes. The delivered OAR dose stayed in compliance with the RTOG hypofractionation constraints for all cases.
Hunting all the hidden photons
Authors: Bauer Martin , Foldenauer Patrick , Jaeckel Joerg
Published: July 2018

Abstract

We explore constraints on gauge bosons of a weakly coupled U(1)B−L,$$ \mathrm{U}{(1)}_{L_{\mu }-{L}_e},\kern0.5em \mathrm{U}{(1)}_{L_e-{L}_{\tau }}\kern0.5em \mathrm{and}\kern0.5em \mathrm{U}{(1)}_{L_{\mu }-{L}_{\tau }} $$U1Lμ−Le,U1Le−LτandU1Lμ−Lτ. To do so we apply the full constraining power of experimental bounds derived for a hidden photon of a secluded U(1)Xand translate them to the considered gauge groups. In contrast to the secluded hidden photon that acquires universal couplings to charged Standard Model particles through kinetic mixing with the photon, for these gauge groups the couplings to the different Standard Model particles can vary widely. We take finite, computable loop-induced kinetic mixing effects into account, which provide additional sensitivity in a range of experiments. In addition, we collect and extend limits from neutrino experiments as well as astrophysical and cosmological observations and include new constraints from white dwarf cooling. We discuss the reach of future experiments in searching for these gauge bosons.
Radiative bound-state formation in unbroken perturbative non-Abelian theories and implications for dark matter
Authors: Harz Julia , Petraki Kalliopi
Published: July 2018

Abstract

We compute the cross-sections for the radiative capture of non-relativistic particles into bound states, in unbroken perturbative non-Abelian theories. We find that the formation of bound states via emission of a gauge boson can be significant for a variety of dark matter models that feature non-Abelian long-range interactions, including multi-TeV scale WIMPs, dark matter co-annihilating with coloured partners and hidden-sector models. Our results disagree with previous computations, on the relative sign of the Abelian and non-Abelian contributions. In particular, in the case of capture of a particle-antiparticle pair into its tightest bound state, we find that these contributions add up, rather than partially canceling each other. We apply our results to dark matter co-annihilating with particles transforming in the (anti)fundamental of SU(3)
c
, as is the case in degenerate stop-neutralino scenarios in the MSSM. We show that the radiative formation and decay of particle-antiparticle bound states can deplete the dark matter density by (40 − 240)%, for dark matter heavier than 500 GeV. This implies a larger mass difference between the co-annihilating particles, and allows for the dark matter to be as heavy as 3.3 TeV.
Direct and indirect effects of father‐daughter relationship on adolescent girls’ psychological outcomes: The role of basic psychological need satisfaction
Authors: Sağkal Ali Serdar , Özdemir Yalçın , Koruklu Nermin
Published: July 2018

Fathers play a salient role in the children's development, especially in daughters. In this study, we examined the direct and indirect effects of father‐daughter relationship on psychological outcomes of adolescent girls. A total of 310 adolescent girls aged between 14 and 18 (M = 15.88,SD = 0.89) of a Turkish population‐based sample completed a battery of self‐report surveys measuring perceptions related to father‐daughter relationship, basic psychological need satisfaction, well‐being, and ill‐being. Structural equation modelling results indicated that father‐daughter relationship is directly related to higher levels of well‐being and lower levels of ill‐being. Besides, results demonstrated that indirect effects of basic psychological need satisfaction on the link between father‐daughter relationship and psychological outcomes were significant. These findings suggest that father‐daughter relationship significantly influences mental health of adolescent girls and this effect is mediated by basic psychological need satisfaction. Implications for counseling interventions and recommendations for future research are discussed.
Does the association between mindful parenting and adolescents’ dispositional mindfulness depend on the levels of anxiety and depression symptomatology in mothers?
Authors: Moreira Helena , Canavarro Maria Cristina
Published: July 2018

The current study aims to investigate whether mindful parenting and adolescents' dispositional mindfulness differ as a function of maternal anxiety and depressive symptoms and to explore the moderating role of these symptoms on the relationship between mindful parenting and adolescents' dispositional mindfulness. A sample of 685 mother‐adolescent dyads was collected in Portuguese public schools. Mothers completed self‐reported measures of mindful parenting and symptoms of anxiety and depression, and adolescents (aged 10–18 years) completed a measure of dispositional mindfulness. Mothers with clinically significant symptomatology levels reported lower levels of mindful parenting than those with normal symptomatology. Almost all mindful parenting dimensions were significantly associated with adolescents' mindfulness, but only under lower or moderate levels of anxiety and depression symptomatology. These findings suggest that parental factors play a key role in adolescents' mindfulness skills and underline the detrimental effect of maternal psychopathology on mindful parenting and on its link with adolescents’ mindfulness.
Objectively measured physical activity profile and cognition in Finnish elderly twins
Authors: Iso‐Markku Paula , Waller Katja , Vuoksimaa Eero , Vähä‐Ypyä Henri , Lindgren Noora , Heikkilä Kauko , Sievänen Harri , Rinne Juha , Kaprio Jaakko , Kujala Urho M.
Published: July 2018

Introduction

We studied whether objectively measured physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) are associated with cognition in Finnish elderly twins.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study comprised twins born in Finland from 1940 to 1944 in the Older Finnish Twin Cohort (mean age, 72.9 years; 726 persons). From 2014 to 2016, cognition was assessed with a validated telephonic interview, whereas PA was measured with a waist‐worn accelerometer.

Results

In between‐family models, SB and light physical activity had significant linear associations with cognition after adjusting for age, sex, wearing time, education level, body mass index, and living condition (SB: β‐estimate, −0.21 [95% confidence intervals, −0.42 to −0.003]; light physical activity: β‐estimate, 0.30 [95% confidence intervals, 0.02–0.58]). In within‐family models, there were no significant linear associations between objectively measured PA and cognition.

Discussion

Objectively measured light physical activity and SB are associated with cognition in Finnish twins in their seventies, but the associations were attributable to genetic and environmental selection.