bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of triple superphosphate and biowaste compost on mycorrhizal colonization and enzymatic P mobilization under maize in a long‐term field experiment
Authors: Peine Manuela , Vitow Nora , Grafe Martin , Baum Christel , Zicker Theresa , Eichler-Löbermann Bettina , Schulz Stefanie , Schloter Michael , Leinweber Peter
Published: December 2018

Phosphorus (P) fertilizers and mycorrhiza formation can both significantly improve the P supply of plants, but P fertilizers might inhibit mycorrhiza formation and change the microbial P cycling. To test the dimension and consequences of P fertilizer impacts under maize (Zea maysL.), three fertilizer treatments (1) triple superphosphate (TSP, 21–30 kg P ha−1annually), biowaste compost (ORG, 30 Mg ha−1wet weight every third year) and a combination of both (OMI) were compared to a non‐P‐fertilized control (C) in 2015 and 2016. The test site was a long‐term field experiment on a Stagnic Cambisol in Rostock (NE Germany). Soil microbial biomass P (Pmic) and soil enzyme activities involved in P mobilization (phosphatases and ß‐glucosidase), plant‐available P content (double lactate‐extract; PDL), mycorrhizal colonization, shoot biomass, and shoot P concentrations were determined. P deficiency led to decreased P immobilization in microbial biomass, but the maize growth was not affected. TSP application alone promoted the P uptake by the microbial biomass but reduced the mycorrhizal colonization of maize compared to the control by more than one third. Biowaste compost increased soil enzyme activities in the P cycling, increased Pmicand slightly decreased the mycorrhizal colonization of maize. Addition of TSP to biowaste compost increased the content of PDLin soil to the level of optimal plant supply. Single TSP supply decreased the ratio of PDL:Pmicto 1:1 from about 4:1 in the control. Decreased plant‐benefits from mycorrhizal symbiosis were assumed from decreased mycorrhizal colonization of maize with TSP supply. The undesirable side effects of TSP supply on the microbial P cycling can be alleviated by the use of compost. Thus, it can be concluded that the plant‐availability of P from soil amendments is controlled by the amendment‐specific microbial P cycling and, likely, P transfer to plants.
Human disturbance affects latrine‐use patterns of raccoon dogs
Authors: Tsunoda Marie , Kaneko Yayoi , Sako Takako , Koizumi Ririko , Iwasaki Kaori , Mitsuhashi Ibuki , Saito Masayuki U. , Hisano Masumi , Newman Chris , Macdonald David W. , Buesching Christina D.
Published: December 2018

Although urbanization is a leading threat to wildlife conservation, some species have adapted to a synanthropic lifestyle. We used a population of raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) in the Akasaka Imperial Grounds in central Tokyo, Japan to investigate how latrine‐using carnivores can maintain their socio‐spatial organization with human disturbance. Between 2012 and 2014, we selected 4–11 latrines per year (from a max. of 18 latrines recorded in the area) using 1 camera per latrine. We focused on latrines that included varying levels of human disturbance. We analyzed the temporal patterns of 3,257 latrine visits, of which 878 included defecation events. Overall, latrine use (i.e., visits with and without defecation events) increased as winter approached, coinciding with dispersal, and showed a seasonal shift from diurnal to nocturnal use patterns as days got shorter. Generalized linear mixed model results confirmed that temporal visiting and defecation patterns were affected by human disturbance and shifted from diurnal to nocturnal, although overall frequency of visits and defecation events did not decrease at disturbed latrines and raccoon dogs continued to use disturbed latrine sites. Raccoon dogs likely perceive human disturbance as predation risk and avoided this by shifting their temporal, but not spatial, activity pattern to minimize disturbance. Minimizing the amount of disturbance around raccoon‐dog latrines at sensitive sites and times of day would allow them to co‐exist with people with the minimal compromise to their latrine‐centered socio‐spatial organization. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
Feasibility of shotgun metagenomics to assess microbial ecology of pediatric tracheostomy tubes
Authors: Wang James C. , Bergeron Mathieu , Andersen Heidi , Tikhtman Raisa , Haslam David , Hunter Tammy , Herr Andrew B. , de Alarcon Alessandro
Published: December 2018

Objective

Biofilm formation on medical devices such as tracheostomy tubes (TTs) is a serious problem. The clinical impact of biofilms on the airway is still unclear. Biofilms may play a role in granulation tissue development, recurrent airway infections, and failure of laryngotracheal reconstructions. The microbial ecology on TTs has yet to be elucidated. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of shotgun metagenomics to assess the biodistribution of microorganisms on TTs.

Methods

Four TTs were collected from pediatric patients (1.4–10.2 years) with (n = 2) and without (n = 2) granulation tissue formation. Duration of TT placement prior to retrieval from patients ranged from 5 to 365 days. DNA extraction was performed using the MO BIO UltraClean Microbial Isolation (Mo Bio Laboratories, Carlsbad, CA). Library generation using Nextera XT adapters (Illumina Inc., San Diego, CA) and metagenomic shotgun sequencing was performed using the Illumina NextSeq500 (Illumina Inc, San Diego, CA).Salinibacter ruber, a species not found in mammalian microbiome communities, was used as a DNA standard and represented 0.7% to 5.7% of the microbiome, ensuring good quality and abundance of sample DNA.

Results

Metagenomic shotgun sequencing was successful for all patients. In TTs associated with granuloma,Fusobacterium nucleatum, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, andStreptococcus pneumoniaewere predominant, most of which are considered pathogens. From TTs without granulomas,Neisseria mucosa, Neisseria sicca, Acinetobacter baumannii, andHaemophilus parainfluenzaewere identified, primarily consistent with respiratory microbiome.

Conclusion

This study reveals that metagenomic shotgun sequencing of biofilms formed on pediatric TTs is feasible with an apparent difference in microbiome for patients with granulation tissue. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the pathogenesis of microbial ecology and its role in airway disease in patients with TTs.

Level of Evidence

2cLaryngoscope, 129:317–323, 2019
The Impact of a Stepwise Approach to Primary Tumor Detection in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Neck With Unknown Primary
Authors: Ryan John F. , Motz Kevin M. , Rooper Lisa M. , Mydlarz Wojciech K. , Quon Harry , Gourin Christine G. , Tan Marietta , Eisele David W. , Fakhry Carole
Published: December 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

To examine the cumulative effect of diagnostic steps for primary tumor identification in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma of unknown primary (HNSCCUP), including lingual tonsillectomy, and the impact of primary tumor identification on subsequent treatment.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis.

Methods

We reviewed the records of 110 patients diagnosed with HNSCCUP between 2003 and 2015. Results of diagnostic imaging (fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography/computed tomography [FDG‐PET/CT]), tumor detection with direct laryngoscopy with biopsies, palatine tonsillectomy, and transoral robotic surgery (TORS) lingual tonsillectomy were recorded. Associations between demographic and treatment variables with overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were modeled with Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

FDG‐PET/CT was suspicious for a primary site in 23/77 (30%) patients. Direct laryngoscopy identified a primary tumor in 34/110 patients (31%). Forty‐seven patients underwent palatine tonsillectomy, which identified 17 primaries (36%), yielding a cumulative primary tumor identification of 51/110 (46%). Fourteen patients underwent TORS lingual tonsillectomy, which identified eight primaries (57%), resulting in a cumulative identification of 59/110 (53%). The detection rate increased from 28/63 (44%) to 31/47 (66%) after the addition of TORS lingual tonsillectomy to our institutional approach. Detection rates varied by HPV status. Primary tumor identification altered subsequent radiation planning, as patients with an identified primary tumor received radiation to a smaller volume of tissue than did those without an identified primary tumor. However, there was no significant association between primary tumor identification and OS or PFS.

Conclusions

A stepwise approach to primary tumor identification identifies a primary tumor in a majority of patients.

Level of Evidence

4

Laryngoscope, 129:1610–1616, 2019
Using GIS to predict habitat in lakes: An example using nearshore substrate categories
Authors: Zentner Douglas L. , Cross Timothy K. , Raabe Joshua K. , Jacobson Peter C.
Published: December 2018

Habitat is an integral component of lake ecosystems and threatened by anthropogenic alterations. Quantifying habitat is typically done with labor intensive and spatially limited surveys (i.e., transects) or with surveys requiring specialized field equipment combined with computer analyses (i.e., sonar). These approaches are limited to inventorying habitat condition and do not directly describe processes that influence habitat distributions. We developed a framework that utilizes geographic information systems (GIS) to answer habitat‐based questions and allows for an understanding of the factors that influence its distribution. This framework uses GIS‐derived data to describe factors input as predictive variables. We tested this framework by predicting nearshore substrate composition in Minnesota lakes. Substrate composition was measured during the summers of 2014–2016 along transects in 28 lakes across Minnesota. Composition was then grouped into three size categories (muck, sandy gravel, and coarse). For each transect, we obtained GIS‐derived data describing exposure (fetch), riparian height, maximum depth, wind power, and bathymetric aspect to use as predictor variables in a classification tree model. We randomly selected 15% of transects to validate the model. Using repeated sampling with replacement, we determined this model predicted substrate composition with 62.0–71.0% accuracy. We then used data from all study lakes and examples from Belle Lake, Minnesota, to determine sources of error. Our results demonstrate that a GIS framework can describe both the distribution of a habitat component and the factors structuring it. This framework can enhance communication effectiveness and decision‐making processes regarding habitat protection, management, and restoration.
Origin of Waveguiding in Ultrashort Pulse Structured Silicon
Authors: Kämmer Helena , Matthäus Gabor , Lammers Kim A. , Vetter Christian , Chambonneau Maxime , Nolte Stefan
Published: December 2018

The origin of waveguiding in the bulk of silicon after sub‐ps laser inscription is investigated. Locally resolved Raman measurements of waveguide cross sections and along the propagation axis reveal highly localized crystal deformations. These modifications consist of highly confined regions of silicon with a disturbed crystal structure accompanied with strain. This transformation is responsible for a local increase of the refractive index allowing localized waveguiding. On the basis of near‐field measurements at an excitation wavelength of 1550 nm, the absolute value of the refractive index change is estimated to be in the range of 10−3.
Molecular Imprinting of Cyclodextrin Supramolecular Hydrogels Improves Drug Loading and Delivery
Authors: Juric Dajan , Rohner Nathan A. , von Recum Horst A.
Published: December 2018

Cyclodextrin‐based controlled delivery materials have previously been developed for controlled release of different therapeutic drugs. In this study, a supramolecular hydrogel made from cyclodextrin‐based macromonomers is subjected to molecular imprinting to investigate the impact on release kinetics and drug loading, when compared with non‐imprinted, or alternately imprinted hydrogels. Mild synthesis conditions are used to molecularly imprint three antibiotics—novobiocin, rifampicin, and vancomycin—and to test two different hydrogel chemistries. The release profile and drug loading of the molecularly imprinted hydrogels are characterized using ultraviolet spectroscopy over a period of 35 days and compared to non‐imprinted, and alternately imprinted hydrogels. While only modest differences are observed in the release rate of the antibiotics tested, a substantial difference is observed in the total drug‐loading amount possible for hydrogels releasing drugs which has been templated by those drugs. Hydrogels releasing drugs which are templated by other drugs do not show improved release or loading. Analysis by FTIR does not show substantial incorporation of drug into the polymer. Lastly, bioactivity assays confirmed long‐term stability and release of incorporated antibiotics.
Dynamics of Sodium Ions and Water in Swollen Superabsorbent Hydrogels as Studied by 23Na‐ and 1H‐NMR
Authors: Guo Xiaoai , Theissen Solveig , Claussen Jan , Hildebrand Viet , Kamphus Juliane , Wilhelm Manfred , Luy Burkhard , Guthausen Gisela
Published: December 2018

Dynamics of sodium ions and water in swollen superabsorbent polymer (SAP) hydrogels are studied by 23Na‐ and 1H‐NMR, respectively. The apparent diffusion coefficients of water in swollen SAPs, probed by 1H pulsed field gradient NMR, decreases with increasing diffusion time. The degree of hindrance depends on structural and synthesis parameters. It is quantified within a tortuosity model. Based on the results, the swelling degree has the highest impact on the ion mobility, apart from synthesis parameters leading to different levels of physical and chemical crosslinks. 23Na‐NMR relaxation and diffusion reveal the 23Na+ mobility in swollen SAPs. A higher degree of neutralization leads to faster relaxation and to a smaller apparent diffusion coefficient. Surface crosslinking restricts water mobility, but has a smaller impact on the dynamics of sodium ions. The experimental results indicate an influence of SAP structure on the dynamics of ions and water molecules.
Diffusive stability for periodic metric graphs
Authors: Chirilus‐Bruckner Martina , Maier Daniela , Schneider Guido
Published: December 2018

We consider a nonlinear diffusion equation on an infinite periodic metric graph. We prove that the terms which are irrelevant w.r.t. linear diffusion on the real line are irrelevant w.r.t. linear diffusion on the periodic metric graph, too. The proof is based on L1‐ estimates combined with Bloch wave analysis for periodic metric graphs.
Synthetic 2D Polymers: A Critical Perspective and a Look into the Future
Authors: Wang Wei , Schlüter A. Dieter
Published: December 2018

This feature article provides both a critical perspective as to where synthetic 2D polymers currently stand and a rather substantial view into how the future of this exciting field of polymer chemistry might look. It starts out by addressing strategic considerations meant to familiarize the reader with what to expect when entering the field. To better understand these considerations, the very nature of a 2D polymer is addressed in comparison to other organic 2D materials. Thereafter, the article moves quite intensely and critically into synthetic and mechanistic issues of 2D polymers before concentrating on the important structural analytics that one has to go through when unequivocally establishing these novel sheet‐like polymeric objects. After a short excursion into the matter of exfoliation, the feature article then culminates in a section attempting to forecast the future. Key differences between 1D and 2D polymers are highlighted, and those considered by the authors to be the most attractive and burning research goals are further discussed. It is hoped that the reader will find this speculative section inspiring enough such that ideas that will help in advancing 2D polymers even faster are generated.
Synthesis of Mussel Inspired Polydopamine Coated Halloysite Nanotubes Based Semi‐IPN: An Approach to Fine Tuning in Drug Release and Mechanical Toughening
Authors: Ganguly Sayan , Das Narayan Ch.
Published: December 2018

Mussel inspired polymerization of polydopamaine over Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) support has been executed in this work. Such functionalized HNTs were in situ polymerized free radically in presence of sodium alginate as naturally occurring polysaccharide. Methacrylic acid has been grafted onto sodium alginate backbone by means of free radical redox triggered Michael type reaction. The dispersed functionalized HNTs in gel matrix have been clearly noticed by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. The successful coating of HNTs has been supported by zeta potential measurement as well TGA analysis. Moreover, the semi‐IPN is biodegradable in nature within around 21 days of study. Most interesting feature of superstretchablity and reversible ductility has been imposed into the nanocomposite hydrogels which can infer them as soft rubbery biomaterial. Lastly the prepared hydrogel is showing effective pH‐responsive controlled release feature.
Effect of Polymerization Temperatures on Polyaniline Coated Fiber Bragg Grating Sensor for Chloroform Detection
Authors: Ahad Irma Z. M. , Harun Sulaiman W. , Gan Seng Neon , Phang Sook Wai
Published: December 2018

A new fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor based on polyaniline (PAni) has been developed for chloroform detection. PAni was synthesized through chemical oxidation method by using equimolar amount of aniline monomer (Ani), dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate dopant (AOT) at different three polymerization temperatures (−5, 0 and 25 °C). The chemical structure and conducting behavior of PAni were confirmed using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐vis) spectroscopy and conductivity measurements. In this study, the FBG sensor was produced by removing the cladding layer and replaced with PAni coating. The immersion of sensor in varying concentration of chloroform (from 10 to 100 ppm) produced different Bragg wavelength shift at ∼1557 nm in the optical spectrum analyzer (OSA). The effect of PAni polymerized at different polymerization temperatures affect the sensor performance. It was found that the FBG sensor coated with PAni polymerized at 0 °C exhibited the highest sensitivity for chloroform detection and good recyclability up to 10 cycles with fast response time of 7 s and recovery time of 8 s. The FTIR, UV‐vis and conductivity analyses supported the proposed mechanism for the interaction between PAni and chloroform being the dipole‐dipole interaction (physical interaction) between the partial negative charge (Clδ−) of chloroform and the partial positive charge (NHδ+) of PAni.
Microwave Absorption Properties of Polyaniline/Titanium Dioxide (PAni/TiO2) Doped with Different Types of Fullerenes
Authors: Mokhtar Nurrafiqah , Chye Desmond A. T. , Phang Sook W.
Published: December 2018

In this work, Polyaniline/titanium dioxide (PAni/TiO2) nanocomposites without and with addition of fullerene such as pristine fullerene (C60) and small gap fullerene (S.G.F) were prepared through template‐free method by using hexanoic acid (HA) as a dopant. FTIR and UV‐Vis spectra confirmed the chemical structure of conjugated PAni and indicated that the resulted PAni is in conducting state. The existence of fillers in PAni nanocomposites were confirmed by the characteristic peaks of TiO2 and fullerene in XRD pattern. Based on FESEM images obtained, nanocomposites formulated with C60 (PAni/HA/TiO2/C60) formed the nanorods/nanotubes and microrods/microtubes with the biggest diameter (240 nm), followed by PAni with S.G.F (PAni/HA/TiO2/S.G.F) and PAni without the addition of fullerene (PAni/HA/TiO2) with diameter of 180 nm and 160 nm, respectively. Besides, PAni/HA/TiO2/C60 also possessed the highest electrical conductivity of 1.708 × 10−1 S/cm as compared to PAni/HA/TiO2/S.G.F and PAni/HA/TiO2 (4.531 × 10−3 S/cm to 1.439 × 10−2 S/cm). Microwave absorption studies of PAni nanocomposites were carried out by using Microwave Vector Network Analyzer (MVNA) in the frequency range of 0.5–18.0 GHz. Among all nanocomposites, PAni/HA/TiO2/C60 exhibited a narrow and the highest reflection loss (RL) peak of −61.3 dB at 9 GHz due to the highest conductivity (1.708 × 10−1 S/cm), dielectric permittivity (0.46) and heterogeneity of PAni (larger amount of nanorods/nanotubes and microrods/microtubes) that have induced more disordered motion of charge carrier along the backbone of PAni. Thus, it eventually enhanced the molecular polarization such as greater space charge relaxation and hopping of confined charges.
Evaluation of copy number variant detection from panel‐based next‐generation sequencing data
Authors: Yao Ruen , Yu Tingting , Qing Yanrong , Wang Jian , Shen Yiping
Published: December 2018

Background

Targeted gene capture and next‐generation sequencing (NGS) has been widely utilized as a robust and cost‐effective approach for detecting small variants among a group of disease genes. Copy number variations (CNV) can also be inferred from the read‐depth information but the accuracy of CNVs called from panel‐based NGS data has not been well evaluated.

Methods

Sequencing data were acquired from patients underwent routine clinical targeted panel sequencing testing. Pathogenic CNVs detected from targeted panel sequencing data were evaluated using CNVs generated by two clinical accepted platforms, namely chromosome microarray analysis (CMA) and multiple ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) as benchmarks. CNVkit was used in our study to call CNVs from sequencing data using read‐depth information. CMA and MLPA tests were used to confirm and further assess the size and breakpoints of CNVs.

Results

The size of CNVs detected using panel‐based NGS data are over 300 kb. The sizes of CNVs detected are slightly larger (102.3% on average) using the NGS platform than using the CMA platform, and the size accuracy improved as the size of variants increases. The breakpoints of CNVs detected using NGS data are quite close (within 2.3% of margin) to the breakpoints detected by CMA. CNVs on sex chromosomes, however, are less concordant between NGS and CMA platforms.

Conclusion

Copy number variations covering adequate exons on autosomes can be accurately detected using targeted panel sequencing data as using CMA. CNVs detected from sex chromosomes need further evaluation and validation. Except for exon‐level deletion/duplication and CNV on sex chromosome, our data support the use of panel‐based NGS data for routine clinical detection of pathogenic CNVs.
Genetic Diversity and Structure of Channel Catfish from Continental Waters of Mexico
Authors: Lara-Rivera Ana Laura , Parra-Bracamonte Gaspar Manuel , Sifuentes-Rincón Ana María , De la Rosa-Reyna Xochitl Fabiola
Published: December 2018

Mexico is the native site of 10 species of the genus Ictalurus, among which the Channel Catfish I. punctatus has great presence in worldwide aquaculture. Wild populations of catfish not only constitute a biological resource but have a great potential for aquaculture. Recently, this species was classified as an invasive organism by the Mexican government. The aim of this study was to determine the structure and genetic diversity of Channel Catfish belonging to native and introduced freshwater populations within Mexico. Using 11 DNA microsatellite loci, we analyzed 292 fish sampled from four rivers and five reservoirs. Observed heterozygosity values ranged between 0.66 and 0.80. The genetic distance analysis showed low to high differentiation among populations (overall genetic differentiation index FST = 0.14). Bayesian coancestry analysis identified two ancestral groups. A single management population on central Tamaulipas can be suggested. The findings of the present study provide the basis for future characterization of productive traits of Mexican Channel Catfish populations in order to use the species as a breeding source for aquaculture. The lower Rio Grande population is one of the most ancient and ecologically relevant Channel Catfish populations in Mexico, and this study identifies it as the most vulnerable. Free-living populations of Channel Catfish, although they have been heedlessly spread, constitute a valuable natural resource that deserves our best effort to preserve.
A qualitative investigation of the experience of participation in Mindfulness‐based Intervention for IVF‐ET (MBII) with Chinese women undergoing first IVF‐ET
Authors: Li Jing , Luo Hong , Long Ling
Published: December 2018

Aim

To explore what the women experience during their first IVF‐ET treatment while participating a mindfulness‐based intervention for IVF‐ET (MBII), and how they use it to enhance their infertility‐related quality of life (QoL).

Design

Qualitative exploratory design.

Methods

As part of a larger multimethod study, this study shares the description from 38 IVF‐ET women. We conducted semi‐structured interviews and collected daily practice diary. Each interview was conducted one‐on‐one within one week after MBII programme. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Four primary themes described participants’ perceptions of how the programme benefitted IVF‐ET treatment and daily lives: improved infertility‐related QoL, enhanced awareness, increased acceptance and regained control over life. Additionally, enhanced awareness, regained control over life and increased acceptance may be implicated in the effectiveness of MBII on the infertility‐related QoL. Clinicians and nurses working with women undergoing first IVF‐ET have another tool to recommend to the patients.
LKB1 signaling is activated in CTNNB1‐mutated HCC and positively regulates β‐catenin‐dependent CTNNB1‐mutated HCC
Authors: Charawi Sara , Just Pierre‐Alexandre , Savall Mathilde , Abitbol Shirley , Traore Massiré , Metzger Nolwenn , Ravinger Roland , Cavard Catherine , Terris Benoit , Perret Christine
Published: December 2018

Hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) are known to be highly heterogenous. Within the extensive histopathological and molecular heterogeneity of HCC, tumors with mutations in CTNNB1, encoding β‐catenin (CTNNB1‐mutated HCC), constitute a very homogeneous group. We previously characterized a distinctive metabolic and histological phenotype for CTNNB1‐mutated HCC. They were found to be well‐differentiated, almost never steatotic, and often cholestatic, with a microtrabecular or acinar growth pattern. Here, we investigated whether LKB1, which controls energy metabolism, cell polarity, and cell growth, mediates the specific phenotype of CTNNB1‐mutated HCC. The LKB1 protein was overexpressed in CTNNB1‐mutated HCC and oncogenic activation of β‐catenin in human HCC cells induced the post‐transcriptional accumulation of the LKB1 protein encoded by the LKB1 (STK11) gene. Hierarchical clustering, based on the expression of a murine hepatic liver Lkb1 (Stk11) signature in a human public dataset, identified a HCC cluster, composed of almost all the CTNNB1‐mutated HCC, that expresses a hepatic liver LKB1 program. This was confirmed by RT‐qPCR of an independent cohort of CTNNB1‐mutated HCC and the suppression of the LKB1‐related profile upon β‐catenin silencing of CTNNB1‐mutated human hepatoma cell lines. Previous studies described an epistatic relationship between LKB1 and CTNNB1 in which LKB1 acts upstream of CTNNB1. Thus, we also analyzed the consequences of Lkb1 deletion on the zonation of hepatic metabolism, known to be the hallmark of β‐catenin signaling in the liver. Lkb1 was required for the establishment of metabolic zonation in the mouse liver by positively modulating β‐catenin signaling. We identified positive reciprocal cross talk between the canonical Wnt pathway and LKB1, both in normal liver physiology and during tumorigenesis that likely participates in the amplification of the β‐catenin signaling by LKB1 and the distinctive phenotype of the CTNNB1‐mutated HCC. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel age‐related venous amyloidosis derived from EGF‐containing fibulin‐like extracellular matrix protein 1
Authors: Tasaki Masayoshi , Ueda Mitsuharu , Hoshii Yoshinobu , Mizukami Mayumi , Matsumoto Sayaka , Nakamura Makoto , Yamashita Taro , Ueda Akihiko , Misumi Yohei , Masuda Teruaki , Inoue Yasuteru , Torikai Tessei , Nomura Toshiya , Tsuda Yukimoto , Kanenawa Kyosuke , Isoguchi Aito , Okada Masamitsu , Matsui Hirotaka , Obayashi Konen , Ando Yukio
Published: December 2018

Most intractable tissue‐degenerative disorders share a common pathogenic condition, so‐called proteinopathy. Amyloid‐related disorders are the most common proteinopathies and are characterized by amyloid fibril deposits in the brain or other organs. Aging is generally associated with the development of these amyloid‐related disorders, but we still do not fully understand how functional proteins become pathogenic amyloid deposits during the human aging process. We identified a novel amyloidogenic protein, named epidermal growth factor‐containing fibulin‐like extracellular matrix protein 1 (EFEMP1), in massive venous amyloid deposits in specimens that we obtained from an autopsied patient who died of gastrointestinal bleeding. Our postmortem analyses of additional patients indicate that EFEMP1 amyloid deposits frequently developed in systemic venous walls of elderly people. EFEMP1 was highly expressed in veins, and aging enhanced venous EFEMP1 expression. In addition, biochemical analyses indicated that these venous amyloid deposits consisted of C‐terminal regions of EFEMP1. In vitro studies showed that C‐terminal regions formed amyloid fibrils, which inhibited venous tube formation and cell viability. EFEMP1 thus caused a novel age‐related venous amyloid‐related disorder frequently found in the elderly population. Understanding EFEMP1 amyloid formation provides new insights into amyloid‐related disorders occurring during the aging process. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Strengthening and Modulating Interphases in Carbon Fiber/Epoxy Composites by Grafting Dendritic Polyetheramine With Different Molecular Weights Onto Carbon Fiber
Authors: Han Ping , Ma Lichun , Song Guojun , Shi Longlong , Gu Zheng , Li Xiaoru , Yang Chao , Wang Gang
Published: December 2018

In order to investigate the effects of molecular weights on the interfacial properties of carbon fibers (CFs) reinforced epoxy composites, dendritic polyethyleneimine (PEI) with different molecular weights were grafted onto CF surface by a simple and efficient method. The microstructures, interfacial, and mechanical properties of modified CFs were researched. Raman spectra and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed the successful growth of PEI dendrimers. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images showed that grafting PEI could improve surface roughness, and this effect was more pronounced with molecular weight increasing. When the molecular weight of PEI is 600, the interfacial shear strength (IFSS), interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), and flexural strength of CFs/epoxy composites were enhanced by 83.6%, 46.1%, and 22.3% compared with those of unmodified ones, respectively. The fractured surface of composites showed a great enhancement of interfacial adhesion. Moreover, the interfacial enhancement mechanisms and failure modes were also discussed. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E1525–E1536, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Changing predictors of statin initiation in US women over two decades
Authors: Kinsey Tracy L. , Stürmer Til , Poole Charles , Rothman Kenneth J. , Glynn Robert J.
Published: December 2018

Purpose

To describe changing roles of predictors of statin initiation before and after incident coronary heart disease, and before and after publication of National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel‐III (ATP‐III) guidelines in a cohort of US women.

Methods

We identified 34 382 women enrolled into the Women's Health Study from 1993 to 1995 and followed up until 2012. Proportions of previous nonusers initiating statins were described over time. We used multivariable linear regression models to estimate adjusted initiation proportion differences (IPDs) for initiation overall, separately before and after incident coronary heart disease, and separately for ATP‐II and ATP‐III time periods.

Results

Key predictors of initiation overall were self‐reported total cholesterol, and previous incident coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and diabetes. Adjusted IPDs (percentage) for total cholesterol > 240 vs <200 mg/dL were 7.5 (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.0‐8.0) and 9.3 (95% CI, 8.7‐9.9) during ATP‐II and ATP‐III time periods, respectively. Adjusted IPDs in women with diabetes were 7.0 (95% CI, 6.3‐7.8) and 11.9 (95% CI, 6.7‐17.0) for primary and secondary prevention, respectively, and 3.1 (95% CI, 2.1‐4.0) and 9.2 (95% CI 8.2‐10.2) for before and after ATP‐III, respectively.

Conclusions

Secular trends reflected evolution toward risk factor‐based treatment indications for statin initiation with increased initiation among diabetics and women with normal and borderline cholesterol. The role of serum cholesterol changed over time, though the character was scale (multiplicative vs additive) dependent. In pharmacoepidemiologic studies of statins, strength of confounding by important variables sometimes unmeasured in claims data, such as cholesterol level, may be calendar time dependent.
An experimental and computational approach to pH‐dependent self‐aggregation of poly(2‐isopropyl‐2‐oxazoline)
Authors: Cagli Eda , Yildirim Erol , Yang Shuo‐Wang , Erel‐Goktepe Irem
Published: December 2018

Besides temperature, self‐aggregation of poly(2‐isopropyl‐2‐oxazoline) (PIPOX) can also be triggered via pH in aqueous solution (25 °C, pH > 5). Lowest energy structures and interaction energies of PIPOX with H3O+, OH−, and H2O were calculated by DFT methods showed that, in addition to their ability to protonate PIPOX, H3O+ ions had strong interaction with both water and PIPOX in acidic conditions. H3O+ ions acted as compatibilizer between PIPOX and water and increased the solubility of PIPOX. OH− ions were found to have stronger interaction with water compared to PIPOX resulting in desorption of water molecules from PIPOX phase and decreased solubility, leading to enhanced hydrophobic interactions among isopropyl groups of PIPOX and formation of aggregates at high pH. Results concerning the effect of end‐groups on aggregate size were in good agreement with statistical mechanics calculations. Moreover, the effect of polymer concentration on the aggregate size was examined. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 210–221
Size and Shape Effect of Gold Nanoparticles in “Far‐Field” Surface Plasmon Resonance
Authors: Zhuang Yiqi , Liu Linlin , Wu Xiaoyan , Tian Yu , Zhou Xuehong , Xu Shuping , Xie Zengqi , Ma Yuguang
Published: December 2018

The “far‐field” surface plasmon resonance (FSPR) of metal nanoparticles, which have built a facile way to emission enhancement of red, green, blue, and white with nice reproducibility, has big potential application in solution‐processed organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). According to the theory of the “far‐field” effect, the reflectivity of the metal surface and the phase shift at the reflection play an important role in enhancing ratio, which strongly relate to the size and shape of nanoparticles. In this work, gold nanospheres with different sizes and nanorods are synthesized in order to determine the size and shape effect of FSPR. The results demonstrate that the one with higher reflectivity in a certain range induces a better emission enhancement in the luminous efficiency and the maximum brightness. The nanoparticles with bigger sizes and shape of rods have higher reflectivity, which is consistent with the simulation based on FSPR effect. The phase shifts of different nanoparticles are optimized by the distance between gold nanoparticles and emitters. The metal NPs with a high reflectivity and the applicable phase shift will have big potential for the emission enhancement in OLEDs.
Negative‐Imaging of Citrate Layers on Gold Nanoparticles by Ligand‐Templated Metal Deposition: Revealing Surface Heterogeneity
Authors: Park Jong‐Won
Published: December 2018

Surface heterogeneity of a metal nanoparticle is typically regarded as boundary defects and various crystalline facets. While organic capping ligands of a single type are assumed to be homogeneously distributed on the nanoparticle surface, heterogeneous surface coverage of citrate molecules on individual facets of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) is revealed. Pt metallic clusters with 2 nm in diameter, epitaxially grown on the surface of AuNPs by chemical reaction and imaged by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, are utilized as negative‐imaging probes for densely packed adlayers where the underneath gold surface may not be accessible for Pt deposition. At pH > 5.0, citrate anions form only a loosely packed layer. At pH 4.5, citrates and citric acids form both loosely packed and densely packed layers that appear phase separated, and the densely packed domain as small as 5 nm × 5 nm is likely composed of fully protonated citric acids. IR spectra indicate that citric acid binds to a surface Au adatom through the oxygen atom of the central hydroxyl group, and similarly, citrate anions bind to Au adatoms through the carboxylate oxygen atom. This study also reveals the role of Au adatom in the adsorption of citrate species on the metallic surface of AuNPs.
Detailed Chemical Kinetic Models for Nanothermites Combustion
Authors: Catoire Laurent
Published: December 2018

The development of nanothermites and the understanding of their behaviors need several improvements in many domains including thermochemistry and chemical kinetics. In this paper a brief state of the art is presented in these fields and possible approaches are presented.
Unsuitability of indigenous South American Rutaceae as potential hosts of Diaphorina citri
Authors: de C Felisberto Patrícia A , Girardi Eduardo A , Peña Leandro , Felisberto Guilherme , Beattie George AC , Lopes Silvio A
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ is transmitted by Diaphorina citri, an insect with a wide range of hosts in Rutaceae. Species related to Citrus occur in Brazilian forests where they may serve as hosts for psyllids and infested citrus orchards.

RESULTS

The suitability of plants as hosts of D. citri was classified into four groups. Group I (high suitability): Citrus × aurantium ‘Valencia’, ‘Citrus limonia’, Murraya paniculata (syn. Murraya exotica L.) (Aurantioideae: Aurantieae) and Bergera koenigii (Aurantioideae: Clauseneae). Group II (intermediate to low suitability): Citrus (Poncirus) trifoliata ‘Pomeroy’, Citrus wintersii, Swinglea glutinosa (Aurantieae) and Clausena lansium (Clauseneae). Group III (not suitable): Aegle marmelos, Atalantia buxifolia, Citrus (‘Microcitrus’) sp. (Aurantieae) and Helietta apiculata (Amyridoideae). Group IV (non‐hosts): Glycosmis pentaphylla (Clauseneae), Balfourodendron riedelianum, Casimiroa edulis, Esenbeckia febrifuga, Esenbeckia leiocarpa, Metrodorea stipularis, Zanthoxylum rhoifolium (Amyridoideae) and Dictyoloma vandellianum (Cneoroideae). Insects survived longer on newly differentiated leaves compared with fully expanded soft leaves. Psyllids either did not develop or did not survive for long on most Group IV species, all of which, with the exception of G. pentaphylla, occur naturally in Brazilian forests.

CONCLUSION

Citrus relatives occurring in forests near citrus orchards are not suitable hosts of D. citri and, therefore, do not contribute to huanglongbing spread. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
On weighted composite scores for early Alzheimer's trials
Authors: Jin Kun , Cameron Briana , Dunn Billy
Published: December 2018

Recent research on finding appropriate composite endpoints for preclinical Alzheimer's disease has focused considerable effort on finding “optimized” weights in the construction of a weighted composite score. In this paper, several proposed methods are reviewed. Our results indicate no evidence that these methods will increase the power of the test statistics, and some of these weights will introduce biases to the study. Our recommendation is to focus on identifying more sensitive items from clinical practice and appropriate statistical analyses of a large Alzheimer's data set. Once a set of items has been selected, there is no evidence that adding weights will generate more sensitive composite endpoints.
Synergistic effect of berberine and HMQ1611 impairs cell proliferation and migration by regulating Wnt signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Dai Bingling , Ma Yujiao , Yang Tianfeng , Fan Mengying , Yu Runze , Su Qi , Wang Hongying , Liu Feng , Yang Changhua , Zhang Yanmin
Published: December 2018

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a biologically complex disease. Combination chemotherapy is a good strategy after surgery treatment. In this study, we report that berberine combined with HMQ1611 (BCH) had a good synergistic effect on the HCC. Our findings concluded that BCH showed good inhibition on the HCC proliferation and colony formation, which attributed to cell cycle arrest by BCH at G1 phase through impairing the expression of cyclinD1, cyclinE, and cdc2 and downregulated the phosphorylation of Akt, mTOR, and ERK. Moreover, BCH negatively regulated Wnt signaling pathway by upregulating the Axin and inhibiting the nuclear translocation of β‐catenin. BCH suppressed the phosphorylation of LRP5/6, GSK3β, the expression of Wnt5a, Frizzled8, CK1, and APC, as well as the nucleus protein included MMP2, MMP3, MMP9, and c‐myc. The above data of Wnt signaling regulators contributed to inhibition by BCH on cell migration. In vivo studies, BCH significantly suppressed the growth of SMMC‐7721 xenograft tumors through downregulating Ki67 and β‐catenin, as well as upregulating Axin and p‐β‐catenin. In conclusion, the results revealed that BCH exhibited potential antitumor activities against human liver cancer in vitro and in vivo, and the potential mechanism underlying these activities depended on the inhibition of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway.
Employing broken symmetry effects from unrestricted coupled cluster wave function to determine dynamic and non‐dynamic electron correlation during triple bond breaking in the N2 molecule
Authors: Toboła Robert
Published: December 2018

The cluster structure of the singlet full symmetric component of the unrestricted Hartree‐Fock (UHF)‐based CCSD wave function describing the triple bond breaking in the nitrogen molecule has been subjected to a detailed analysis for the possibility of determining the dynamic and near‐degeneracy electron correlation. The results obtained show that the spin and symmetry contaminations are not responsible only for the appearance of the artificial hump in the potential energy curve (PEC) generated by the UHF‐based CCSD calculations. A theoretical analysis of this issue indicates that the UHF‐based CCSD wave function and its singlet full symmetric component have a multi‐reference structure. This form of the wave function allows to explain the mechanism for creating cluster contributions in the projected UHF‐based CCSD wave function, which also provides the opportunity to explain the cause of the hump in the nitrogen PEC generated by the UCCSDecCCSD method.
Identity of two types of strong Brønsted acid sites in mazzite revealed by CO probe: IR study and periodic DFT modeling
Authors: Rejmak Paweł , Datka Jerzy , Broclawik Ewa
Published: December 2018

The nature of catalytic Brønsted sites in mazzite is clarified by molecular modeling combined with spectroscopy. Density Functional Theory study for periodic models of high‐silica mazzite evidence that most stable bridging hydroxyls, noticeably binding CO probe, fall into two categories: Brønsted sites located in larger channels, characterized by higher OH frequency of bare hydroxyl with very large redshift upon CO interaction, and lower‐frequency sites located in smaller channels, showing lower redshift. This fully corresponds to two bands obtained for OH stretch in IR spectra. Very good agreement between theory and experiment found in this work not only confirms that Brønsted sites studied here belong to the strongest acid sites among known zeolites but also clarifies their identity in mazzite. Location of sites with exceptionally large red shift upon CO adsorption at 12‐T wide channel very well conforms to both intuitive expectations and predictions for other zeolites from former studies.
Rapid Growth Cone Uptake and Dynein‐Mediated Axonal Retrograde Transport of Negatively Charged Nanoparticles in Neurons Is Dependent on Size and Cell Type
Authors: Lesniak Anna , Kilinc Devrim , Blasiak Agata , Galea George , Simpson Jeremy C. , Lee Gil U.
Published: December 2018

Nanoparticles (NPs) are now used in numerous technologies and serve as carriers for several new classes of therapeutics. Studies of the distribution of NPs in vivo demonstrate that they can be transported through biological barriers and are concentrated in specific tissues. Here, transport behavior, and final destination of polystyrene NPs are reported in primary mouse cortical neurons and SH‐SY5Y cells, cultured in two‐compartmental microfluidic devices. In both cell types, negative polystyrene NPs (PS(−)) smaller than 100 nm are taken up by the axons, undergo axonal retrograde transport, and accumulate in the somata. Examination of NP transport reveals different transport mechanisms depending on the cell type, particle charge, and particle internalization by the lysosomes. In cortical neurons, PS(−) inside lysosomes and 40 nm positive polystyrene NPs undergo slow axonal transport, whereas PS(−) outside lysosomes undergo fast axonal transport. Inhibition of dynein in cortical neurons decreases the transport velocity and cause a dose‐dependent reduction in the number of accumulated PS(−), suggesting that the fast axonal transport is dynein mediated. These results show that the axonal retrograde transport of NPs depends on the endosomal pathway taken and establishes a means for screening nanoparticle‐based therapeutics for diseases that involve neurons.
Engineering challenges of intrafirm technology reuse
Authors: Corin Stig Daniel , Bergsjö Dag
Published: December 2018

Companies derive additional value from technological investments by repeatedly applying them across different product lines in their portfolios. Technology reuse strategies have helped to increase efficiency in leveraging research and development investments, but the attempts to explain how to duplicate such results for technology reuse at the engineering level are missing. While there are synergetic effects to the reuse of technologies, there are also transaction costs that limit the benefits in practice. This paper presents a model, along with three examples, of technology reuse to help account for these transaction costs and mitigate the fallacy of perceiving technologies as reusable “off‐the‐shelf” elements.