bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Electrochemical Sensing Platform for the Detection of Lead Ions Based on Dicarboxyl‐Calix[4]arene
Authors: Nur Abdul Aziz Siti Fatimah , Zawawi Ruzniza , Alang Ahmad Shahrul Ainliah
Published: January 2018

A simple and highly sensitive electrochemical sensor COOH−C4 derived from dicarboxyl‐calix[4]arene modified on a screen printed gold electrode (Au) was developed for the determination of lead ions in water samples. A 3‐mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) monolayer was used as a template on the gold electrode for the surface modification with dicarboxyl‐calixarene. The modified electrodes were surface‐characterized using Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The data obtained proved the confirmation of each stage of the electrode modification. The electrochemical analyses of the COOH−C4 electrode showed an enhanced electrocatalytic activity and higher current towards Pb2+ ions as compared to the bare Au and MPA/Au electrodes. Under optimum conditions, the differential pulse voltammetry response of COOH−C4 displayed a wide linear response ranging from 280–2500 μg/L for Pb2+ with a detection limit of 6.2 μg/L. In addition, the fabricated electrode showed a high selectivity and stability towards the Pb2+ ions in presence of possible interfering species. The present method was successfully applied to determine Pb2+ ions in real samples with satisfactory precision, with a relative standard deviation of 3.12 % and an acceptable recovery of 92 %, which demonstrated the potential application of dicarboxyl‐calix[4]arene modified on electrodes for heavy‐metal sensing.
Enhanced production of the pharmaceutically important polyphenolic compounds in Vitex agnus castus L. shoot cultures by precursor feeding strategy
Authors: Skrzypczak‐Pietraszek Ewa , Piska Kamil , Pietraszek Jacek
Published: January 2018

Agitated Vitex agnus castus L. shoot cultures were established to analyse the content of selected pharmaceutically important flavonoids and phenolic acids. Two variants (selected from nine ones) of MS medium were prepared: A (BAP 1 mg/L; NAA 0.5 mg/L; GA3 0.25 mg/L) and B (BAP 2 mg/L; NAA 0.5 mg/L). The biomass was harvested after 1, 2, 3,4, 5 and 6 weeks. Four‐week cultures (variant A) were selected to perform the precursor feeding experiment. The L‐phenylalanine dose of 1.6 g/L appears to be the most advantageous. Compared to the control cultures, the content of the individual compounds increased in a range from 1.4 to 17.3‐fold (e.g. p‐coumaric acid – 17.3 fold; casticin – 4.8‐fold). The biomass from in vitro cultures is richer in neochlorogenic acid (16‐fold), p‐coumaric acid (5.3‐fold), rutin (2.8‐fold), caffeic acid (1.5‐fold) and cinaroside (1.5‐fold) than the leaves of its parent greenhouse‐cultivated plants. Extracts contained 30 mg/100 g DW of casticin, but after the hydrolysis its amount increased up to 200 mg/100 g DW and twice exceeded the content in the greenhouse leaves. The results indicate that V. agnus castus agitated shoot cultures might be considered as a potential biotechnological source of some pharmaceutically important compounds, especially casticin, rutin, neochlorogenic and p‐coumaric acids.
The role of paternal mind‐mindedness in preschoolers' self‐regulated conduct
Authors: Gagné Christine , Bernier Annie , McMahon Catherine A.
Published: January 2018

This study examined the prospective links between paternal mind‐mindedness (MM) and 2 indices of preschoolers' self‐regulated conduct, namely, inhibitory control and rule‐compatible conduct. Ninety‐two families (47 boys) participated in 2 assessments. Paternal MM was assessed with a 10‐min father–child free‐play session when children were aged 18 months. Children's rule‐compatible conduct was reported by mothers when children reached 3 years of age, and inhibitory control was measured with a Snack Delay task, also administered at 3 years. The results suggested that after accounting for the contribution of child temperament (social fearfulness), paternal MM was positively related to children's inhibitory control. In contrast, the relation between paternal MM and mother‐reported rule‐compatible conduct was not significant. The results are interpreted in light of the mechanisms that may account for the links between paternal MM and preschoolers' emerging capacity to voluntarily control their behaviour.

Highlights

This study examines the prospective links between paternal mind-mindedness and two indices of preschoolers' subsequent self‐regulated conduct.

Paternal mind‐mindedness was assessed with father‐child free‐play, and self‐regulated conduct with an inhibitory control task and a mother questionnaire.

The results suggest that paternal mind‐mindedness is positively related to children's inhibitory control.
Now and always, the relevance of the Taylor rule in Europe
Authors: Caputo Rodrigo , Díaz Agustín
Published: January 2018

We find that, after the adoption of the euro, the European Central Bank has followed a forward‐looking Taylor rule. This rule is such that nominal as well as real short‐term interest rates increase in response to higher expected inflation or decline in output. Our findings show that the European Central Bank policy responses are of the same magnitude and sign as the ones prevailing in the pre‐euro era for Germany, France, and Italy. We conclude that, before and after the euro, central banks in Europe have adopted a proactive stance towards controlling inflation.
An alternate approach in exploring the causal link between financial development and economic growth—Evidence from advanced economies
Authors: Swamy Vighneswara , Dharani M
Published: January 2018

This study explores the causal link between financial development and economic growth in advanced economies as these countries experience significantly higher levels of financial development. Using a fully balanced panel of 24 economies from 1983 to 2013, the study shows that when imposing a linear relationship, the financial development and economic growth are negatively associated in the long run. The panel granger causality tests establish the bidirectional causality between the financial development variables with growth. Employing an alternate approach of moderated mediation effect framework, we notice that the association of financial development with economic growth is moderated by the negative impacts of inflation, interest rate, and population dependency; and the positive mediation effect of trade openness. The policy implication is that there is a need to rein in inflation and real interest rates and enhance trade openness to optimize the benefits of growing financial development on economic growth.
Finance and Accounting Professionals and Cybersecurity Awareness
Authors: Pendley John A.
Published: January 2018

In this article, the author shows how financial professionals can become involved in creating more secure information technology (IT) environments. It is certainly beneficial to know the facts surrounding large security breaches and to have a basic understanding of the consequences of security problems. But accountants should move beyond that level of factual knowledge and engage in proactive thinking about security issues in their organizations and, ultimately, translate this thinking into actions that can help thwart cyber criminals. The ideas presented in this article can be implemented by anyone in a managerial or administrative role and include fundamental behaviors, organizational policies, and software tools that can help identify and prevent common threats from illegal cyber activity. While the article concentrates on basic security solutions, guidance is also presented on additional steps to take when the organization is ready to move to higher levels of sophistication and maturity in cybersecurity awareness. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Closer Look at Comfort and Verification Letters
Authors: Noland Thomas G. , Hardin J. Russell
Published: January 2018

Corporations and other organizations may issue, or have issued to them, documents that are referred to as “comfort letters.” Underwriters of public companies will frequently need to obtain comfort letters to aid in an equity or debt issue. Comfort letters are also prepared by other types of entities. Banks will occasionally prepare an informal letter indicating its willingness to support a customer with a short‐term loan. Parent corporations may issue comfort letters to reassure a subsidiary firm's lender or supplier that it will support the subsidiary in case of financial difficulties. Specific terminology used in the letter determines whether such assurance constitutes a binding contract by the parent company or only a moral obligation. When comfort letters are being used by a corporation to support a business transaction, chief financial officers, corporate controllers and treasurers should consult with attorneys and CPAs to make sure unintended obligations do not arise.
The role of Cdk5‐mediated Drp1 phosphorylation in Aβ1‐42 induced mitochondrial fission and neuronal apoptosis
Authors: Guo Miao‐Yu , Shang Lei , Hu Yang‐Yang , Jiang Li‐Ping , Wan Yu‐Ying , Zhou Qin‐Qin , Zhang Kun , Liao Hong‐Fei , Yi Jing‐Lin , Han Xiao‐Jian
Published: January 2018

Alzheimer's disease, one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, is pathologically characterized by Amyloid beta containing plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Amyloid beta (Aβ) induces neuronal apoptosis through the intracellular Ca2+ increase, subsequent hyperactivation of cyclin‐dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) and mitochondrial abnormality. Recently, Cdk5 was identified as an upstream regulator of mitochondrial fission during neuronal apoptosis, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, in vitro phosphorylation assays showed that Cdk5 could phosphorylate the recombinant Drp1 at Serine 579. Aβ1‐42 stimulation increased the phosphorylation level of Drp1 at Serine 579 in mouse cortical neurons. Cdk5 inhibitor roscovitine and knockdown of Cdk5 by a lentiviral vector expressing shRNA targeting Cdk5 (Lenti‐Cdk5‐shRNA) efficiently prevented Aβ1‐42 induced Drp1 phosphorylation in neurons. In addition, Aβ1‐42 stimulation induced markedly mitochondrial fission in neurons. Roscovitine, Lenti‐Cdk5‐shRNA and expression of phospho‐defect mutatant GFP‐Drp1‐S579A in neurons attenuated Aβ1‐42 induced mitochondrial fission, whereas expression of phospho‐mimetic mutant GFP‐Drp1‐S579D alone resulted in mitochondiral fission similar to Aβ1‐42 stimulation. Moreover, Roscovitine and Lenti‐Cdk5‐shRNA suppressed the cleavage of caspase‐3 and protected neurons against Aβ1‐42 induced neuronal apoptosis.Thus, our data indicate that Drp1 is a direct target of Cdk5, and Cdk5‐mediated phosphorylation of Drp1 at Serine 579 regulates Aβ1‐42 induced mitochondrial fission and neuronal toxicity.
Berberine demonstrates anti‐inflammatory properties in Helicobacter pylori‐infected mice with chronic gastritis by attenuating the Th17 response triggered by the B cell‐activating factor
Authors: Wu Xiuxia , Li Xian , Dang Zhongqin , Jia Yunfei
Published: January 2018

Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid derived from various medicinal herbs. Previous studies have suggested that BBR exerts antimicrobial, antitumor, and antidiabetic effects and can be used to treat Helicobacter pylori‐induced chronic gastritis. However, the exact mechanism by which BBR inhibits H. pylori infection is not fully understood. We investigated the anti‐inflammatory properties and potential mechanism of BBR in H. pylori‐infected mice with chronic gastritis. We found that BBR can suppress the expression of pro‐inflammatory genes IL‐6, TGF‐β, and IL‐1β and upregulate anti‐inflammatory gene IL‐10 expression in the mucosa and RAW 264.7 macrophages. Exposure to BBR also reduced the expression and accumulation of IL‐17 in the mucosa and CD4+ T cells activated by anti‐CD3 and anti‐CD28, and it decreased the frequency of IL‐17‐producing CD4+ T cells. B cell‐activating factor (BAFF) production was inhibited by BBR and by cultured dendritic and CD4+ T cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that BAFF can trigger the Th17 response by promoting the production of pro‐Th17 cytokines IL‐6, TGF‐β, and IL‐1β, which are strongly associated with the anti‐inflammatory role of BBR in chronic gastritis caused by H. pylori. In conclusion, we determined that BBR has anti‐inflammatory effects on H. pylori‐induced chronic gastritis by attenuating the BAFF‐triggered Th17 response.
Effects of Benzoapyrene on migration and invasion of lung cancer cells functioning by TNF‐α
Authors: Zhao Guangqiang , Wang Zhengxi , Huang Yunchao , Ye Lianhua , Yang Kaiyun , Huang Qiubo , Chen Xiaobo , Li Guangjian , Chen Ying , Wang Jinhui , Zhou Yongchun
Published: January 2018

In this study, we attempted to find out the underlying mechanism of Benzoapyrene and metastasis of lung cancer cells. We also did experiments to testify the connection between BaP and its potential target, TNF‐α. Cell median lethal dose (IC50) of both cells was measured by crystal violet method. Quantitative real‐time reverse transcription PCR (qRT‐PCR) and Western blot were employed to detect the expression of TNF‐α. Wound healing assay and transwell assay were utilized to testify the impacts of BaP and TNF‐α on the metastasis of lung cancer cells. Cell death rate was elevated with the increase of BaP concentration. BaP increased the number of metastatic cells of lung cancer. The expressions of TNF‐α pathway‐associated protein (TNF‐α, NF‐kB [P65], Caspase3, and Caspase8) were enhanced by overexpressed BaP. TNF‐α shRNA suppressed the positive effects of BaP on migration and invasion of lung cancer cells. Our study validated the positive effects of BaP on the metastasis of lung cancer cells. We also revealed the instrumental role of TNF‐α in helping the development of lung cancer cells induced by BaP.
HipOP mesenchymal population has high potential for repairing injured peripheral nerves
Authors: Yamauchi Yukako , Itoh Shousaku , Naruse Haruna , Itoh Yuki , Abe Makoto , Kagioka Takumi , Hayashi Mikako
Published: January 2018

Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) are reportedly a heterogeneous population of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Recently, we developed a simple strategy for the enrichment of MSCs with the capacity to differentiate into osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. On transplantation, the progenitor‐enriched fractions can regenerate the bone with multiple lineages of donor origin and are thus called “highly purified osteoprogenitors” (HipOPs). Although our previous studies have demonstrated that HipOPs are enriched with MSCs and exhibit a higher potential to differentiate into osteoblasts, adipocytes, and chondrocytes than BMSCs, their potential to differentiate into neural cells has not been clarified. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of HipOPs as a resource of neural stem cells. The neurosphere assay showed that neurospheres formed by HipOPs exhibited self‐renewal ability and their size was generally larger than that of neurospheres formed by BMSCs. A limiting dilution assay was used to evaluate the frequency of neural progenitors in BMSCs and HipOPs. The results demonstrated that the frequency of neural progenitors in HipOPs was 120‐fold higher than that in BMSCs. Furthermore, to investigate the in vivo regenerative potential of the peripheral nerve, we modified a murine peripheral nerve injury experimental model and demonstrated that HipOPs exhibit a higher efficacy in repairing injured peripheral nerves. These findings suggest that HipOPs are a useful cell resource for regenerative therapies such as that in case of peripheral nerve injury.
Effects of antioxidants on apoptosis induced by dasatinib and nilotinib in K562 cells
Authors: Damiano Sara , Montagnaro Serena , Puzio Maria V. , Severino Lorella , Pagnini Ugo , Barbarino Marcella , Cesari Daniele , Giordano Antonio , Florio Salvatore , Ciarcia Roberto
Published: January 2018

In clinical practice for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia, second generation of tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as Nilotinib (NIL) specific and potent inhibitor of the BCR/ABL kinase and Dasatinib (DAS) a inhibitor of BCR/ABL and Src family kinase were developed to clinically overcome imatinib resistance. In this study, we wanted to test the ability of some antioxidants such Resveratrol (RES) or a new recombinant mitochondrial manganese containing superoxide dismutase (rMnSOD) or δ‐tocotrienol (δ‐TOCO) to interact with DAS and NIL on viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis. To test the possible mechanisms of action of such antioxidants, we utilized N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) a specific inhibitor ROS production or PP1 a specific Src tyrosine kinase inhibitor or BAPTA a specific chelator of intracellular calcium. Our data demonstrated: 1) RES, rMnSOD, δ‐TOCO, and NAC, at dose used, significantly reduced the intracellular levels of MDA induced by DAS or NIL; 2) RES, rMnSOD, and δ‐TOCO increased the intracellular ROS levels; 3) The increase ROS levels is related to higher levels of oligonucleosomesi induced by DAS and NIL and that NAC significantly reduced this activity. Interestingly, our data showed that apoptotic activity of DAS and NIL have significantly increased the production of oligonucleosomes by triggering excessive ROS generation as well as functionality of SERCA receptors.
Enclosings of decompositions of complete multigraphs in 2‐factorizations
Authors: Feghali Carl , Johnson Matthew
Published: January 2018

Let k, m, n, λ, and μ be positive integers. A decomposition of into edge‐disjoint subgraphs is said to be enclosed by a decomposition of into edge‐disjoint subgraphs if and, after a suitable labeling of the vertices in both graphs, is a subgraph of and is a subgraph of for all . In this paper, we continue the study of enclosings of given decompositions by decompositions that consist of spanning subgraphs. A decomposition of a graph is a 2‐factorization if each subgraph is 2‐regular and spanning, and is Hamiltonian if each subgraph is a Hamiltonian cycle. We give necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a 2‐factorization of that encloses a given decomposition of whenever and . We also give necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a Hamiltonian decomposition of that encloses a given decomposition of whenever and either or and , or , , and .
Endothelial cells enhance adipose mesenchymal stromal cell‐mediated matrix contraction via ALK receptors and reduced follistatin: Potential role of endothelial cells in skin fibrosis
Authors: Monsuur Hanneke N. , van den Broek Lenie J. , Koolwijk Pieter , Niessen Frank B. , Gibbs Susan
Published: January 2018

Abnormal cutaneous wound healing can lead to formation of fibrotic hypertrophic scars. Although several clinical risk factors have been described, the cross‐talk between different cell types resulting in hypertrophic scar formation is still poorly understood. The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate whether endothelial cells (EC) may play a role in skin fibrosis, for example, hypertrophic scar formation after full‐thickness skin trauma. Using a collagen/elastin matrix, we developed an in vitro fibrosis model to study the interaction between EC and dermal fibroblasts or adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells (ASC). Tissue equivalents containing dermal fibroblasts and EC displayed a normal phenotype. In contrast, tissue equivalents containing ASC and EC displayed a fibrotic phenotype indicated by contraction of the matrix, higher gene expression of ACTA2, COL1A, COL3A, and less secretion of follistatin. The contraction was in part mediated via the TGF‐β pathway, as both inhibition of the ALK4/5/7 receptors and the addition of recombinant follistatin resulted in decreased matrix contraction (75 ± 11% and 24 ± 8%, respectively). In conclusion, our study shows that EC may play a critical role in fibrotic events, as seen in hypertrophic scars, by stimulating ASC‐mediated matrix contraction via regulation of fibrosis‐related proteins.
Dentin bond strength and nanoleakage of the adhesive interface after intracoronal bleaching
Authors: Cavalli Vanessa , Sebold Maicon , Shinohara Mirela Sanae , Pereira Patrícia Nóbrega Rodrigues , Giannini Marcelo
Published: January 2018

This study evaluated dentin bond strength (BS) and nanoleakage of non‐ and pre‐etched dentin immediately (T0,), 7 days (T7), and 14 days (T14) after bleaching. Bovine incisors (150) were selected and half of them submitted to intrapulpal dentin etching (e). Non‐ and pre‐etched dentin were subjected to the following (n = 15): no bleaching/control (C); 35% carbamide peroxide (CP); 35% hydrogen peroxide (35% HP); 25% hydrogen peroxide (25% HP); and sodium perborate (SP). Bleaching agents were applied to the pulp chamber four times within a 72‐h interval. Afterwards, pulp chamber dentin was prepared for the BS test at different evaluation times (n = 5): T0, T7, and T14. Composite blocks were built on pulp chamber and sectioned in slices. Slices were reduced to an hour‐glass shape with a cross‐sectional area of 0.8 mm2 and submitted to microtensile BS test. Two additional specimens for each group were prepared for nanoleakage evaluation by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results were analyzed by ANOVA (two‐way) and Dunnett's test (p < .05). BS decreased immediately after intracoronal bleaching for both sound and pre‐etched dentin (p < .05). At T14, the BS of non‐etched bleached dentin increased for all groups, whereas the pre‐etched SPe group presented BS similar to the Ce. Nanoleakage within the hybrid layer was perceptible immediately after bleaching, although a decrease in nanoleakage was observed for all groups at T14. Adhesive restorations should be performed 7–14 days after bleaching, according to the bleaching agent used. Intracoronal bleaching should be performed preferably with sodium perborate if previous dentin etching is applied.
Extracellular matrix and traumatic brain injury
Authors: George Naijil , Geller Herbert M.
Published: January 2018

The brain extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a crucial role in both the developing and adult brain by providing structural support and mediating cell‐cell interactions. In this review, we focus on the major constituents of the ECM and how they function in both normal and injured brain, and summarize the changes in the composition of the ECM as well as how these changes either promote or inhibit recovery of function following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Modulation of ECM composition to facilitates neuronal survival, regeneration and axonal outgrowth is a potential therapeutic target for TBI treatment.
How to best address spatial and temporal variability of soil‐derived nitrous oxide and methane emissions
Authors: Jungkunst Hermann F. , Meurer Katharina H. E. , Jurasinski Gerald , Niehaus Engelbert , Günther Anke
Published: January 2018

Take Home Message

It can be justifiable to determine nitrous oxide and methane flux rates from soil with only two concentration measurements to allow for more spatial precision.
Rapid differentiation of Chinese hop varieties (Humulus lupulus) using volatile fingerprinting by HS‐SPME‐GC–MS combined with multivariate statistical analysis
Authors: Liu Zechang , Wang Liping , Liu Yumei
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Hops impart flavor to beer, with the volatile components characterizing the various hop varieties and qualities. Fingerprinting, especially flavor fingerprinting, is often used to identify ‘flavor products’ because inconsistencies in the description of flavor may lead to an incorrect definition of beer quality. Compared to flavor fingerprinting, volatile fingerprinting is simpler and easier.

RESULTS

We performed volatile fingerprinting using head space‐solid phase micro‐extraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry combined with similarity analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) for evaluating and distinguishing between three major Chinese hops. Eighty‐four volatiles were identified, which were classified into seven categories. Volatile fingerprinting based on similarity analysis did not yield any obvious result. By contrast, hop varieties and qualities were identified using volatile fingerprinting based on PCA. The potential variables explained the variance in the three hop varieties. In addition, the dendrogram and principal component score plot described the differences and classifications of hops.

CONCLUSION

Volatile fingerprinting plus multivariate statistical analysis can rapidly differentiate between the different varieties and qualities of the three major Chinese hops. Furthermore, this method can be used as a reference in other fields. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Flavour‐active compounds in thermally treated yeast extracts
Authors: Alim Aygul , Song Huanlu , Liu Ye , Zou Tingting , Zhang Yu , Zhang Songpei
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Aroma‐active compounds and non‐volatile substances determine the characteristic aroma and taste of yeast extract (YE). Changes in the characteristic aroma and taste of YE due to thermal reaction are rarely studied, and the relationship between aroma‐active compounds and non‐volatile compounds is not yet clear.

RESULTS

Non‐volatile compounds identified by HPLC and LC/MS/MS were reduced by a rise in temperature, except for some amino acids. Peptides underwent degradation. In addition, a further rise in temperature above 120 °C resulted in a bitter and sour taste. Furans, pyrazines, thiophenes, thiazoles and some branched chain sulfur compounds were derived from GC/O/MS (SPME and SAFE). Sensory results revealed that the concentration of volatile compounds increased with an increase in temperature. The overall aroma profiles of YE at 25, 100 and 110 °C were buttery, green, nutty and meaty, while YE at 140 °C had a strong sour and sulfur odour.

CONCLUSION

The non‐volatile compounds of YE were reduced and different volatile compounds were produced under different thermal treatments. There was a negative correlation between these two types of compounds. The different taste sensors and all precursors were correlated with each other. There are significant relationships between different odorants and aroma‐active compounds of YE after thermal treatment. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Protective effects of new antioxidant compositions of 4‐methylcoumarins and related compounds with dl‐α‐tocopherol and l‐ascorbic acid
Authors: Kancheva Vessela D , Slavova‐Kazakova Adriana K , Angelova Silvia E , Kumar Prashant , Malhotra Shashwat , Singh Brajendra K , Saso Luciano , Prasad Ashok K , Parmar Virinder S
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Coumarin derivatives possess a wide range of biological activities. By functionalization of the parent coumarin skeleton that has neither antioxidant nor biological activity, a series of new bio‐antioxidants has been designed.

RESULTS

New antioxidant compositions (equimolar binary and ternary mixtures) of eight 4‐methylcoumarins and three related compounds have been tested and different effects between individual components have been observed: synergism (positive effect), additivism (summary effect) and antagonism (negative effect). Higher oxidative stability of the lipid substrate was obtained in the presence of the new antioxidant compositions of the studied compounds with dl‐α‐tocopherol and l‐ascorbic acid. The role of each component in the antioxidant compositions of ternary mixtures has been identified by using new equations composed by the authors.

CONCLUSION

All ternary mixtures demonstrate synergism as a result of continuous regeneration of dl‐α‐tocopherol from the studied antioxidants and l‐ascorbic acid. Theoretical calculations have been probed as indicators of the expected effects between the individual components in a binary mixture. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Early assessment of post‐surgical outcomes with pre‐pectoral breast reconstruction: A literature review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chatterjee Abhishek , Nahabedian Maurice Y. , Gabriel Allen , Macarios David , Parekh Mousam , Wang Fang , Griffin Leah , Sigalove Steven
Published: January 2018

Background

Pre‐pectoral breast reconstruction is an emerging surgical approach. This study provides an early assessment of outcomes with the technique.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was performed through searches of PubMed®/MEDLINE® to identify studies on pre‐pectoral reconstruction. Patient characteristics and outcomes were extracted from studies and pooled. Linear relationships between complication rates and patient characteristics with pre‐pectoral reconstruction were analyzed. A meta‐analysis compared complication rates between pre‐pectoral and dual‐plane reconstruction.

Results

Fourteen studies (406 women/654 breasts) were included. The most common complications with pre‐pectoral reconstruction were flap necrosis (7.8%), seroma (6.7%), capsular contracture (5.8%), and explantation (4.6%). No hyperanimation was reported. Significant correlation between previous radiation and flap necrosis, post‐operative chemotherapy and infection, hypertension and flap necrosis, diabetes and dehiscence, and smoking and explantation were found. A meta‐analysis of four studies comparing pre‐pectoral (135 women/219 breasts) and dual‐plane (230/408) reconstruction found no significant difference for likelihood of infection (odds ratio, 0.46; 95% confidence interval, 0.16‐1.30), explantation (0.83; 0.29‐2.38), necrosis (1.61; 0.77‐3.36), seroma (1.88; 0.71‐5.02), dehiscence (1.84; 0.68‐4.95), or capsular contracture (0.14; 0.02‐1.14).

Conclusions

Complication rates are comparable following pre‐pectoral and dual‐plane reconstruction, indicating the pre‐pectoral technique may be a feasible option for appropriate patients.
The secrets of failing better: Accessible publishing at SAGE. A case study
Authors: Manis Caroline , Alexander Huw
Published: January 2018

Key points

Accessibility is often misunderstood as a concept that is niche or of secondary importance.

Reframing accessibility as improving the overall user experience instantly changes the perspective; accessibility becomes a critical requirement worthy of investment and resources.

The single most prevalent complaint amongst librarians is the time it takes to get hold of accessible content.

An accessibility roadmap provides structure and transparency for digital accessibility projects within the organization.

Publishers' non‐compliance with accessibility standards will increase their risk of sales declines and legal complications over time.

The SAGE A.C.C.E.S.S.I.B.L.E mnemonic offers suggestions on how to devise a successful accessible publishing programme.
Towards universal accessibility: The UK policy landscape and supporting technology
Authors: House Emma , Orme Richard , Bide Mark
Published: January 2018

Key points

The UK policy landscape supports access for the users whilst allowing publishers to maintain business models.

Advancements such as EPUB 3, aligning publishing with web technologies, and the Inclusive Publishing hub help publishers reach accessibility compliance.

Print impairment is not an on/off switch, and each reader has his or her own unique set of requirements – a fact that is supported by EPUB 3.

The time is ripe for publishers to make firm commitments to accessibility initiatives.
An overview of content accessibility issues experienced by educational publishers
Authors: Bowes Frederick
Published: January 2018

Key points

Educational accessibility needs to accommodate not only text but also supplemental, multimedia, and interactive elements.

Accessibility considerations need to address user needs for timeliness, quality, cost, and security.

Schools often default to remediation instead of embracing EPUB 3 for practical reasons and to respond to student preferences.

PDF is often preferred over EPUB for creating alternate formats because of familiarity and expediency.

Schools require accessibility to deal with increased legal pressure from both government agencies and disability advocates.
Do you have a broken link in your accessibility chain?
Authors: Kerscher George
Published: January 2018

Key points

Accessibility of publications in academia is a non‐negotiable legal requirement.

The accessibility of your journal or other scholarly publication is the most important design consideration in your workflow.

EPUB Accessibility 1.0 and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 provide a clear publishing pathway.

Consider the readability chain: Any link can result in accessibility failure but an unbroken chain will benefit all readers.
Publishing with accessibility standards from the inside out
Authors: Rothberg Madeleine
Published: January 2018

Key points

Publishers should layer on the right standards to create accessible publications.

Accessible publications have accessible content at the core, wrapped in semantic structure, and topped off with accessible metadata.

Resources to help publishers implement accessibility in their programmes are available.
Experience with pharmacologic leeching with bivalirudin for adjunct treatment of venous congestion of head and neck reconstructive flaps
Authors: Harun Aisha , Kruer Rachel M. , Lee Andrew , Boahene Kofi , Byrne Patrick J. , Richmon Jeremy D.
Published: January 2018

Objectives

The goal of this study was to review the feasibility of local bivalirudin injection for adjunct treatment of venous congestion of head and neck reconstructive flaps.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent bivalirudin treatment for venous congestion of head and neck reconstructive flaps in a single institution from September 1, 2012 to September 1, 2015 was undertaken. Individuals were treated with variable number of intradermal injections directly into the flap followed by a small skin incision to allow extended passive bleeding. The main outcome measure was improvement of flap congestion.

Results

Ten patients with free flap reconstruction (4 anterolateral thigh flaps, 2 pectoralis major flaps, 2 fibula osseocutaneous flaps, 1 supraclavicular flap, and 1 radial forearm free flap) of various head and neck defects underwent treatment with bivalirudin. Bivalirudin injections were utilized as adjunct therapy in 6 patients. Two individuals underwent alternate therapy for venous congestion immediately following injection and therefore the efficacy could not be assessed. Of the 8 remaining flaps, 4 developed partial necrosis, and 1 developed complete necrosis requiring additional reconstruction. Two individuals required blood transfusions during bivalirudin treatment.

Conclusions

Bivalirudin is a safe and feasible adjunct therapy for treatment of flap congestion. It may serve as a useful alternative to traditional leech therapy, as bivalirudin negates the need for antibiotic prophylaxis, eliminates the psychological aversion associated with leech therapy, and avoids the potential for leech migration. Further work to determine the efficacy of bivalirudin to standard leech therapy is warranted.
On Riemann‐Liouville fractional q–difference equations and their application to retarded logistic type model
Authors: Abdeljawad Thabet , Alzabut Jehad
Published: January 2018

In this note, we study a type of nonlinear Riemann‐Liouville fractional q–difference equations. By using the Krasnoselskii fixed‐point theorem, we investigate the existence of solutions of the addressed equation. Prior to the main results and unlike previous theorems, we provide the variation of parameters formula in case the solution starts at some a>0, which belongs to the quantum time scale
where the solution is only defined. The case when the solution starts at a=0 is also considered. To apply our result, we provide an existence theorem for the Riemann‐Liouville fractional q–logistic type model.
Optimal duration and dosage of BCG intravesical immunotherapy: A free final time optimal control approach
Authors: Alkama Meryem , Larrache Abdelilah , Rachik Mostafa , Elmouki Ilias
Published: January 2018

In this paper, we propose a free final time optimal control approach applied to 4 ordinary differential equations which describe the tumor‐immune interactions after the injection of the bacillus Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) in the bladder of a hypothetical patient. The main goal of this optimal control strategy is to find the optimal dosage amount needed in each instillation of BCG for stimulating the immune‐system and then killing superficial bladder tumors and to determine the optimal duration of treatment, adequate for stopping the intravesical therapy with lesser side‐effects. For this, we introduce into the model of interest, a control function which represents the dose of BCG immunotherapy procedure and we formulate a minimization problem where the final time is considered free (nonfixed). The characterization of the sought optimal control noted u∗ is derived based on Pontryagin's maximum principle, while the formulation of the sought optimal final time noted
is based on formulae of sensitivity which are obtained conditions from the derivative of the objective function with respect to
. We investigate the resolution of the free final time optimal control problem in 3 possible cases: (a) when
is quadratic in the final gain function, (b) when the final gain function does not depend on
, and (c) when
is linear in the final gain function. Finally, we obtain the sought optimal dose of BCG, and we conclude that in case (a), we obtain an optimal duration which is more beneficial regarding the activation of immune cells while cases (b) and (c) both provide an optimal duration which is more adequate for the minimization of the tumoral population.
Development of an advanced two‐dimensional microdosimetric detector based on THick Gas Electron Multipliers
Authors: Darvish‐Molla Sahar , Prestwich William V. , Byun Soo Hyun
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The THick Gas Electron Multiplier (THGEM)‐based tissue‐equivalent proportional counter (TEPC) has been proven to be useful for microdosimetry due to its flexibility in varying the gaseous sensitive volume and achieving high multiplication gain. Aiming at measuring the spatial distribution of radiation dose for mixed neutron‐gamma fields, an advanced two‐dimensional (2D) THGEM‐TEPC was designed and constructed at McMaster University which will enable us to overcome the operational limitation of the classical TEPCs, particularly for high‐dose rate fields. Compared to the traditional TEPCs, anode wire electrodes were replaced by a THGEM layer, which not only enhances the gas multiplication gain but also offers a flexible and convenient fabrication for building 2D detectors.

Method & Materials

The 2D THGEM TEPC consists of an array of 3 × 3 sensitive volumes, equivalent to nine individual TEPCs, each of which has a dimension of 5 mm diameter and length. Taking the overall cost, size and flexibility into account, to process nine detector signals simultaneously, a multi‐input digital pulse processing system was developed by using modern microcontrollers, each of which is coupled with a 12‐bit sampling ADC.

Results

Using the McMaster Tandetron 7Li(p,n) accelerator neutron source, both fundamental detector performance, as well as neutron dosimetric response of the 2D THGEM‐TEPC, has been extensively investigated and compared to the data acquired by a standard spherical TEPC. It was shown that the microdosimetric response and the measured absorbed dose rate of the 2D THGEM detector developed in this study are comparable to the standard 1/2” TEPC which is commercially available.

Conclusion

This study proved that the 2D TEPC based on the THGEM technology can be effectively used in microdosimetry studies and is a promising detector for measuring the absorbed dose rate distribution over an area in mixed radiation fields. This unique small gas cavity detector opens new possibilities in applications for high‐intensity mixed radiation fields as well as in nanodosimetry.
Influence of a point sink on a pile group in saturated multilayered soils with anisotropic permeability
Authors: Ai Zhi Yong , Li Pan Cong , Shi Ben Kai , Hu Ya Dong
Published: January 2018

The behavior of a pile group is solved using the finite element method, and the fundamental solution of saturated multilayered soils with anisotropic permeability is obtained by the analytical layer element method. Based on the supposition of no slip occurring at the pile‐soil interface, the governing equations of the interaction between the pile group and the soils due to a point sink are established in the Laplace‐Hankel transformed domain by considering the pile‐soil compatibility condition. Numerical results are presented to study the effect of point sink pumping, the properties of soils, and the geometries of piles on the behavior of the pile group.
Increased CEST specificity for amide and fast‐exchanging amine protons using exchange‐dependent relaxation rate
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Yong , Wang Feng , Xu Junzhong , Gochberg Daniel F. , Gore John C. , Zu Zhongliang
Published: January 2018

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) imaging of amides at 3.5 ppm and fast‐exchanging amines at 3 ppm provides a unique means to enhance the sensitivity of detection of, for example, proteins/peptides and neurotransmitters, respectively, and hence can provide important information on molecular composition. However, despite the high sensitivity relative to conventional magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), in practice, CEST often has relatively poor specificity. For example, CEST signals are typically influenced by several confounding effects, including direct water saturation (DS), semi‐solid non‐specific magnetization transfer (MT), the influence of water relaxation times (T1w) and nearby overlapping CEST signals. Although several editing techniques have been developed to increase the specificity by removing DS, semi‐solid MT and T1w influences, it is still challenging to remove overlapping CEST signals from different exchanging sites. For instance, the amide proton transfer (APT) signal could be contaminated by CEST effects from fast‐exchanging amines at 3 ppm and intermediate‐exchanging amines at 2 ppm. The current work applies an exchange‐dependent relaxation rate (Rex) to address this problem. Simulations demonstrate that: (1) slowly exchanging amides and fast‐exchanging amines have distinct dependences on irradiation powers; and (2) Rex serves as a resonance frequency high‐pass filter to selectively reduce CEST signals with resonance frequencies closer to water. These characteristics of Rex provide a means to isolate the APT signal from amines. In addition, previous studies have shown that CEST signals from fast‐exchanging amines have no distinct features around their resonance frequencies. However, Rex gives Lorentzian lineshapes centered at their resonance frequencies for fast‐exchanging amines and thus can significantly increase the specificity of CEST imaging for amides and fast‐exchanging amines.
Recent advances and opportunities in proteomic analyses of tumour heterogeneity
Authors: Bateman Nicholas W , Conrads Thomas P
Published: January 2018

Solid tumour malignancies comprise a highly variable admixture of tumour and non‐tumour cellular populations, forming a complex cellular ecosystem and tumour microenvironment. This tumour heterogeneity is not incidental, and is known to correlate with poor patient prognosis for many cancer types. Indeed, non‐malignant cell populations, such as vascular endothelial and immune cells, are known to play key roles supporting and, in some cases, driving aggressive tumour biology, and represent targets of emerging therapeutics, such as antiangiogenesis and immune checkpoint inhibitors. The biochemical interplay between these cellular populations and how they contribute to molecular tumour heterogeneity remains enigmatic, particularly from the perspective of the tumour proteome. This review focuses on recent advances in proteomic methods, namely imaging mass spectrometry, single‐cell proteomic techniques, and preanalytical sample processing, that are uniquely positioned to enable detailed analysis of discrete cellular populations within tumours to improve our understanding of tumour proteomic heterogeneity. This review further emphasizes the opportunity afforded by the application of these techniques to the analysis of tumour heterogeneity in formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded archival tumour tissues, as these represent an invaluable resource for retrospective analyses that is now routinely accessible, owing to recent technological and methodological advances in tumour tissue proteomics. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clear cell carcinomas of the ovary and kidney: clarity through genomics
Authors: Ji Jennifer X , Wang Yi Kan , Cochrane Dawn R , Huntsman David G
Published: January 2018

Clear cell ovarian carcinoma (CCOC) and clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) both feature clear cytoplasm, owing to the accumulation of cytoplasmic glycogen. Genomic studies have demonstrated several mutational similarities between these two diseases, including frequent alterations in the chromatin remodelling SWI–SNF and cellular proliferation phosphoinositide 3‐kinase–mammalian target of rapamycin pathways, as well as a shared hypoxia‐like mRNA expression signature. Although many targeted treatment options have been approved for advanced‐stage ccRCC, CCOC patients are still treated with conventional platinum and taxane chemotherapy, to which they are resistant. To determine the extent of similarity between these malignancies, we performed unsupervised clustering of mRNA expression data from these cancers. This review highlights the similarities and differences between these two clear cell carcinomas to facilitate knowledge translation within future research efforts. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Established, emerging and elusive molecular targets in the treatment of lung cancer
Authors: Gallant Jean‐Nicolas , Lovly Christine M
Published: January 2018

Although histological subtype still underlies tumour classification and treatment, the recognition that lung cancer is, largely, a genetic disease has prompted a push to reconfigure cancer taxonomies according to molecular criteria. In this review, we discuss established (e.g. EGFR, ALK, ROS1, and programmed cell death 1/programmed death‐ligand 1), emerging (e.g. MET, RET, and NTRK) and elusive (e.g. TP53, KRAS, and MYC) molecular targets in the treatment of lung cancer. We synthesize a large and rapidly growing body of literature regarding the discovery and therapeutic inhibition of these targets in lung cancer. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NMR spectroscopy of organolithium compounds, part XXXIII: trans‐2,3‐dimethylcyclopropyllithium aggregation in diethylether: An equilibrium between three different complexes of comparable energy and the influence of LiBr on aggregate structure
Authors: Fox Thomas , Günther Harald
Published: January 2018

The aggregate formation of trans‐2,3‐dimethylcyclopropyllithium (2) was studied in diethylether (DEE). With the help of the isotopic fingerprint method three clusters, a monomer, a dimer, and a fluxional tetramer in the ratio 1.00:0.53:0.22 were identified at 187 K. In the presence of 1 equivalent of LiBr cyclopropyllithium (1) forms in DEE at 163 K a mixed dimer and a mixed tetramer, while in THF a mixed dimer dominates. Under the same conditions 2 and 2,2,3,3‐tetramethylcyclopropyllithium (3) form in the solvent mixture DEE/THF (1:1) mixed dimers, as does 2 also in THF.