bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can the maximum volume fraction ensure optimum reinforcement in short‐fiber composites?
Authors: Cruces Florencia , García María Guadalupe , Ochoa Nelio Ariel
Published: April 2019

Short sisal fiber composites (SSFCs) based on a pectin matrix were prepared and characterized mechanical and optically. Different concentrations (1–30 wt %) of fibers were used to evaluate the packing effect on the reinforcement of a polymer matrix. Theoretical models were used to obtain the maximum packing or volume fraction (ϕmax) of randomly oriented short fibers and its relationship with the mechanical parameters. A higher elastic modulus and tensile strength were observed when the fiber content was increased in the composite at a fixed aspect ratio (length/diameter = 2.8). Material selection charts showed that SSFCs with a fiber concentration of 20 wt % had a higher reinforcement effect at ϕmax, as was predicted through theoretical models. Nevertheless, SSFCs with a fiber concentration of 7 wt % presented optimum reinforcement because it resulted in the strongest and lightest composite material. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47821.
Fabrication and electrochemical characterization of polyimide‐derived carbon nanofibers for self‐standing supercapacitor electrode materials
Authors: Han Nam Koo , Ryu Ji Hyung , Park Do Un , Choi Jae Hak , Jeong Young Gyu
Published: April 2019

We report the electrochemical performance of aromatic polyimide (PI)‐based carbon nanofibers (CNFs), which were fabricated by electrospinning, imidization, and carbonization process of poly(amic acid) (PAA) as an aromatic PI precursor. For the purpose, PAA solution was electrospun into nanofibers, which were then converted into CNFs via one‐step (PAA‐CNFs) or two‐step heat treatment (PI‐CNFs) of imidization and carbonization. The FTIR and Raman spectra demonstrated a successful structural evolution from PAA nanofibers to PI nanofibers to CNFs at the molecular level. The SEM images revealed that the average diameter of the nanofibers decreased noticeably via imidization and carbonization, while it decreased slightly with increasing the carbonization temperature from 800 °C to 1000 °C. In case of PI‐CNF carbonized at 1000 °C, a porous structure was developed on the surface of nanofibers. The electrical conductivity of PI‐CNFs, which was even higher than that of PAA‐CNFs, increased significantly from 0.41 to 2.50 S/cm with increasing the carbonization temperature. From cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge tests, PI‐CNF carbonized at 1000 °C was evaluated to have a maximum electrochemical performance of specific capacitance of ~126.3 F/g, energy density of ~12.2 Wh/kg, and power density of ~160 W/kg, in addition to an excellent operational stability. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 47846.
Using latent class analysis to identify treatment‐use subgroups among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Mire Sarah S. , McQuillin Samuel , Racine Madeline , Goin‐Kochel Robin P.
Published: April 2019

Among parents of 2,582 children (ages 4–17 years old) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), we used latent class analysis to identify subgroups and profiles of treatment users and included annual household income in the specification of the models, then described characteristics of each subgroup. Based on three indicators of fit (Akaike's Information Criterion, Bayesian Information Criterion, and Lo–Mendell–Rubin), six latent classes of treatment users emerged. Subgroups included users of: (a) mostly private and school speech and occupational therapies; (b) nearly all treatment types; (c) mostly speech and occupational therapies, plus intensive behavioral and “other” treatments, but little medication use; (d) private therapies almost exclusively; (e) primarily psychotropic medications; and (f) mostly school‐based therapies. Income significantly predicted class differences for all but one latent class. Probabilities of families' lifetime use of nine treatment types varied depending on latent classification. Proportions of families reporting having observed children's developmental regression were largest in those with the highest overall treatment use, and these children also had the lowest cognitive and adaptive‐functioning scores and the highest ASD symptom scores. Understanding patterns of treatment use among families of children with ASD is an important first step in enhancing treatment‐related selection and implementation. Autism Research 2019, 12: 843–854. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

We identified six different groups of treatment users to help explain patterns in treatment implementation among parents of children and adolescents with autism. These included families who used: (a) mostly used private and school speech and occupational therapies; (b) nearly all treatment types (private and school therapies, intensive behavioral, biomedical, psychotropic medications, and other treatments); (c) mostly speech and occupational therapies, plus intensive behavioral and “other” treatments, but little medication use; (d) private therapies almost exclusively; (e) primarily psychotropic medications; and (f) mostly school‐based therapies.
Two is a Crowd
Authors: Boer Lucas L. , Schepens‐Franke Annelieke N. , Oostra Roelof Jan
Published: April 2019

In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of multiple facets in the puzzling genesis of symmetrical conjoined twins. The etiopathogenesis of conjoined twins remains matter for ongoing debate and is currently cited—in virtually every paper on conjoined twins—as partial fission or secondary fusion. Both theories could potentially be extrapolated from embryological adjustments exclusively seen in conjoined twins. Adoption of these, seemingly factual, theoretical proposals has (unconsciously) resulted in crystallized patterns of verbal and graphic representations concerning the enigmatic genesis of conjoined twins. Critical evaluation on their plausibility and solidity remains however largely absent. As it appears, both the fission and fusion theories cannot be applied to the full range of conjunction possibilities and thus remain matter for persistent inconclusiveness. We propose that initial duplication of axially located morphogenetic potent primordia could be the initiating factor in the genesis of ventrally, laterally, and caudally conjoined twins. The mutual position of two primordia results in neo‐axial orientation and/or interaction aplasia. Both these embryological adjustments result in conjunction patterns that may seemingly appear as being caused by fission or fusion. However, as we will substantiate, neither fission nor fusion are the cause of most conjoined twinning types; rather what is interpreted as fission or fusion is actually the result of the twinning process itself. Furthermore, we will discuss the currently held views on the origin of conjoined twins and its commonly assumed etiological correlation with monozygotic twinning. Finally, considerations are presented which indicate that the dorsal conjunction group is etiologically and pathogenetically different from other symmetric conjoined twins. This leads us to propose that dorsally united twins could actually be caused by secondary fusion of two initially separate monozygotic twins. An additional reason for the ongoing etiopathogenetic debate on the genesis of conjoined twins is because different types of conjoined twins are classically placed in one overarching receptacle, which has hindered the quest for answers. Clin. Anat. 32:722–741, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Isolation of Ceramides from Tagetes patula L. Yellow Flowers and Nematicidal Activity of the Fractions and Pure Compounds against Cyst Nematode, Heterodera zeae
Authors: Bano Samina , Faizi Shaheen , Lubna  , Fayyaz Shahina , Iqbal Erum Y.
Published: April 2019

Investigation of yellow flower extract of Tagetes patula L. led to the identification of an aggregate of five phytoceramides. Among them, (2R)‐2‐hydroxy‐N‐[(2S,3S,4R,8E)‐1,3,4‐trihydroxyicos‐8‐en‐2‐yl]icosanamide, (2R)‐2‐hydroxy‐N‐[(2S,3S,4R,8E)‐1,3,4‐trihydroxyicos‐8‐en‐2‐yl]heneicosanamide, (2R)‐2‐hydroxy‐N‐[(2S,3S,4R,8E)‐1,3,4‐trihydroxyicos‐8‐en‐2‐yl]docosanamide, and (2R)‐2‐hydroxy‐N‐[(2S,3S,4R,8E)‐1,3,4‐trihydroxyicos‐8‐en‐2‐yl]tricosanamide were identified as new compounds and termed as tagetceramides, whereas (2R)‐2‐hydroxy‐N‐[(2S,3S,4R,8E)‐1,3,4‐trihydroxyicos‐8‐en‐2‐yl]tetracosanamide was a known ceramide. A steroid (β‐sitosterol glucoside) was also isolated from the subsequent fraction. The structures of these compounds were determined on the basis of spectroscopic analyses, as well as chemical method. Several other compounds were also identified by GC/MS analysis. The fractions and some commercial products, a ceramide HFA, β‐sitosterol, and stigmasterol were evaluated against an economically important cyst nematode, Heterodera zeae. Ceramide HFA showed 100 % mortality, whereas, β‐sitosterol and stigmasterol were 40–50 % active, at 1 % concentration after 24 h of exposure time, while β‐sitosterol glucoside revealed no activity against the nematode.
Iatrogenic atrial septal defect closure after transseptal mitral valve interventions: Indications and outcomes
Authors: Beri Neil , Singh Gagan D. , Smith Thomas W. , Fan Dali , Boyd Walter D. , Rogers Jason H.
Published: April 2019

Objectives

Review indications and outcomes for transcatheter iatrogenic atrial septal defect (iASD) closure in patients undergoing MitraClip or transseptal (TS) mitral valve‐in‐valve/ring (ViV/ViR) procedures.

Background

Mitral valve transcatheter interventions require large‐diameter TS sheaths that can result in iASDs that necessitate post‐procedure transcatheter closure. Although the presence of iASD has been well‐described, indications for closure and outcomes after TS mitral valve interventions have not been reported.

Methods

Patients undergoing MitraClip repair and ViV or ViR transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) from February 14, 2014, to January 16, 2018, were studied retrospectively in this single center study.

Results

Seventeen patients had iASD closure: 11 MitraClip and 6 TMVR (5 ViV, 1 ViR). Indications for iASD closure included large iASD (n = 7), large left‐to‐right shunt (n = 9), pulmonary hypertension (n = 8), large right‐to‐left shunt (n = 1), severe RV dysfunction (n = 2), thin/aneurysmal septum (n = 2), and mobile material on pacemaker leads (n = 2). Closures were performed without complications using Amplatzer septal occluders. At 30 days, 94% of subjects (n = 16) were alive with one patient deceased from unknown causes. There were no myocardial infarctions or strokes. At 12 months, follow‐up was available for 14 of 17 patients, and 71% of patients (10/14) were alive. One patient died due to cardiac causes, two from noncardiac causes and one for unknown reasons. There was one myocardial infarction, one intraparenchymal hemorrhage, and no ischemic strokes.

Conclusions

The most common reasons for iASD closure after TS MV procedures are: large ASD unlikely to spontaneously close, large left‐to‐right shunt, and pulmonary hypertension. Patients who required iASD closure had low 30‐day mortality but higher one‐year mortality potentially reflecting a population with substantial comorbidities.
The Hydrogen Bond and Beyond: Perspectives for Rotational Investigations of Non‐Covalent Interactions
Authors: Juanes Marcos , Saragi Rizalina T. , Caminati Walther , Lesarri Alberto
Published: April 2019

In the last decade, experiment and theory have expanded our vision of non‐covalent interactions (NCIs), shifting the focus from the conventional hydrogen bond to new bridging interactions involving a variety of weak donor/acceptor partners. Whereas most experimental data originate from condensed phases, the introduction of broadband (chirped‐pulse) microwave fast‐passage techniques has revolutionized the field of rotational spectroscopy, offering unexplored avenues for high‐resolution studies in the gas phase. We present an outlook of hot topics for rotational investigations on isolated intermolecular clusters generated in supersonic jet expansions. Rotational spectra offer very detailed structural data, easily discriminating the isomeric or isotopic composition and effectively cancelling any solvent, crystal, or matrix bias. The direct comparison with quantum mechanical predictions provides insight into the origin of the inter‐ and intramolecular interactions with much greater precision than any other spectroscopic technique, simultaneously serving as test‐bed for fine‐tuning of theoretical methods. We present recent examples of rotational investigations around three topics: oligomer formation, chiral recognition, and identification of halogen, chalcogen, pnicogen, or tetrel bonds. The selected examples illustrate the benefits of rotational spectroscopy for the structural and energetic assessment of inter‐/intramolecular interactions, which may help to move from fundamental research to applications in supramolecular chemistry and crystal engineering.
Branching Brownian Motion with Decay of Mass and the Nonlocal Fisher‐KPP Equation
Authors: Addario‐Berry Louigi , Berestycki Julien , Penington Sarah
Published: April 2019

In this work we study a nonlocal version of the Fisher‐KPP equation,

urn:x-wiley:0010-3640:media:cpa21827:cpa21827-math-0001

and its relation to a branching Brownian motion with decay of mass as introduced in Addario‐Berry and Penington (2015) , i.e., a particle system consisting of a standard branching Brownian motion (BBM) with a competitive interaction between nearby particles. Particles in the BBM with decay of mass have a position in ℝ and a mass, branch at rate 1 into two daughter particles of the same mass and position, and move independently as Brownian motions. Particles lose mass at a rate proportional to the mass in a neighborhood around them (as measured by the function φ).

We obtain two types of results. First, we study the behavior of solutions to the partial differential equation above. We show that, under suitable conditions on φ and u0, the solutions converge to 1 behind the front and are globally bounded, improving recent results of Hamel and Ryzhik. Second, we show that the hydrodynamic limit of the BBM with decay of mass is the solution of the nonlocal Fisher‐KPP equation. We then harness this to obtain several new results concerning the behavior of the particle system. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Use of 4β‐Hydroxycholesterol Plasma Concentrations as an Endogenous Biomarker of CYP3A Activity: Clinical Validation in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Gravel Sophie , Chiasson Jean‐Louis , Gaudette Fleur , Turgeon Jacques , Michaud Veronique
Published: April 2019

The relevance of endogenous 4β‐hydroxycholesterol (4β‐OHC) plasma concentrations or of the 4β‐OHC/total cholesterol concentration ratio (4β‐OHC ratio) as surrogate markers of cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) activity was evaluated in individuals with (n = 38) or without (n = 35) type 2 diabetes (T2D). Midazolam was used as a comparator to validate exploratory measures of phenotypic CYP3A activity. Metabolic ratios of orally administered midazolam in nondiabetic and diabetic populations correlated significantly with 4β‐OHC (rs = 0.64 and 0.48; P ≤ 0.003) and 4β‐OHC ratio (rs = 0.69 and 0.46; P ≤ 0.003), respectively. Activity of CYP3A was lower in the T2D population compared with nondiabetic subjects; this decrease was reflected in 4β‐OHC concentrations (24.33 vs. 12.58 ng/mL; P < 0.0001) and 4β‐OHC ratio (0.13 vs. 0.09 (× 104); P < 0.0002). These results suggest that 4β‐OHC should be considered as a valid, convenient, and easy to use endogenous biomarker of CYP3A activity in patients.
An Overview of Genomic Biomarker Use in Cardiovascular Disease Clinical Trials
Authors: Adeniyi Oluseyi , Ramamoorthy Anuradha , Schuck Robert , Sun Jielin , Wilson Jennifer , Zineh Issam , Pacanowski Michael
Published: April 2019

Clinical trial designs targeting patient subgroups with certain genetic characteristics may enhance the efficiency of developing drugs for cardiovascular disease (CVD). To evaluate the extent to which genetic knowledge translates to the CVD pipeline, we analyzed how genomic biomarkers are utilized in trials. Phase II and III trial protocols for investigational new drugs for CVD and risk factors were evaluated for prospective and exploratory genomic biomarker use; drug targets were evaluated for the presence of evidence that genetic variations can impact CVD risk or drug response. We identified 134 programs (73 unique drug targets) and 147 clinical trials. Less than 1% (n = 1/147) trials used a genomic biomarker prospectively for in‐trial enrichment despite 32% (n = 23/73) of the drug targets having evidence of genetic variations. Additionally, 46% (n = 68/147) of the trials specified exploratory biomarker use. The results highlight an opportunity for more targeted CVD drug development by leveraging genomic biomarker knowledge.
High‐frequency sampling and piecewise models reshape dispersal kernels of a common reef coral
Authors: Moneghetti Joanne , Figueiredo Joana , Baird Andrew H. , Connolly Sean R.
Published: April 2019

Models of dispersal potential are required to predict connectivity between populations of sessile organisms. However, to date, such models do not allow for time‐varying rates of acquisition and loss of competence to settle and metamorphose, and permit only a limited range of possible survivorship curves. We collect high‐resolution observations of coral larval survival and metamorphosis, and apply a piecewise modeling approach that incorporates a broad range of temporally varying rates of mortality and loss of competence. Our analysis identified marked changes in competence loss and mortality rates, the timing of which implicates developmental failure and depletion of energy reserves. Asymmetric demographic rates suggest more intermediate‐range dispersal, less local retention, and less long‐distance dispersal than predicted by previously employed non‐piecewise models. Because vital rates are likely temporally asymmetric, at least for nonfeeding broadcast‐spawned larvae, piecewise analysis of demographic rates will likely yield more reliable predictions of dispersal potential.
Innate immune cells orchestrate the repair of sterile injury in the liver and beyond
Authors: Hossain Mokarram , Kubes Paul
Published: April 2019

There is a close association between inflammation and sterile injury, however not all sterile injuries are the same. While a regulated inflammatory response is crucial for proper healing, a dysregulated or nonterminating response leads to disrepair. While immune cells are thought to contribute to the disrepair, they may also be critical for proper healing and as such, their actions may dictate the end result. In all forms of sterile injury, release of damage‐associated molecular patterns from necrotic cells causes robust recruitment of innate immune cells. The subsequent release of toxic mediators from immune cells is thought to be damaging in non‐resolving sterile injuries in which the dysregulated immune response leads to chronic inflammatory disease. While similar mediators may be released from immune cells in resolution of acute injury, the spatial localization, timing, and self‐termination may all be critical. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in our understanding of the temporal and spatial recruitment of various innate immune cells that beget appropriate healing of acute injuries. Where possible we try to compare this appropriate response to dysregulated sterile injuries in an attempt to identify novel therapeutic targets.
Human Fcγ receptors compete for TGN1412 binding that determines the antibody's effector function
Authors: Dudek Simone , Weißmüller Sabrina , Anzaghe Martina , Miller Lilija , Sterr Sarah , Hoffmann Katja , Hengel Hartmut , Waibler Zoe
Published: April 2019

The first‐in‐human clinical trial of the CD28‐specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) TGN1412 resulted in a life‐threatening cytokine release syndrome. Although TGN1412 was designed as IgG4, known for weak Fc:Fcγ receptor (FcγR) interactions, these interactions contributed to TGN1412‐induced T‐cell activation. Using cell lines (TFs) expressing human FcγRI, ‐IIa, ‐IIb, or ‐III, we show that TGN1412 and TGN1412 as IgG1 and IgG2 are bound by FcγRs as it can be deduced from literature. However, upon coculture of TGN1412‐decorated T cells with TFs or human primary blood cells, we observed that binding capacities by FcγRs do not correlate with the strength of the mediated effector function. FcγRIIa and FcγRIIb, showing no or very minor binding to TGN1412, mediated strongest T cell proliferation, while high‐affinity FcγRI, exhibiting strong TGN1412 binding, mediated hardly any T‐cell proliferation. These findings are of biological relevance because we show that FcγRI binds TGN1412, thus prevents binding to FcγRIIa or FcγRIIb, and consequently disables T‐cell proliferation. In line with this, FcγRI−FcγRII+ but not FcγRI+FcγRII+ monocytes mediate TGN1412‐induced T‐cell proliferation. Collectively, by using TGN1412 as example, our results indicate that binding of monomeric IgG subclasses does not predict the FcγR‐mediated effector function, which has major implications for the design of therapeutic mAbs.
Changepoint analysis of Klementinum temperature series
Authors: Jarušková D. , Antoch J.
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a statistical analysis of the stationarity of the Prague–Klementinum temperature series. In the first part, the stationarity of annual means is rejected, and several nonstationary models are suggested to assess the increase in temperature in the most recent decades. The analysis shows that positions of the changepoint estimates depend largely on our decision as to whether we apply a discontinuous or a continuous piecewise linear model. In the second part, we study the stationarity of the seasonal behavior of the series, particularly the stationarity of the mean annual profiles. The analysis of the seasonal cycle shows that the increase in temperature has not the same character throughout the calendar year. Rather, an increase in temperature in winter days is larger than an increase in summer days, and the temperature difference between summer and winter days decreases.
Low‐intensity transcranial magnetic stimulation promotes the survival and maturation of newborn oligodendrocytes in the adult mouse brain
Authors: Cullen Carlie L. , Senesi Matteo , Tang Alexander D. , Clutterbuck Mackenzie T. , Auderset Loic , O'Rourke Megan E. , Rodger Jennifer , Young Kaylene M.
Published: April 2019

Neuronal activity is a potent extrinsic regulator of oligodendrocyte generation and central nervous system myelination. Clinically, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is delivered to noninvasively modulate neuronal activity; however, the ability of rTMS to facilitate adaptive myelination has not been explored. By performing cre‐lox lineage tracing, to follow the fate of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells in the adult mouse brain, we determined that low intensity rTMS (LI‐rTMS), administered as an intermittent theta burst stimulation, but not as a continuous theta burst or 10 Hz stimulation, increased the number of newborn oligodendrocytes in the adult mouse cortex. LI‐rTMS did not alter oligodendrogenesis per se, but instead increased cell survival and enhanced myelination. These data suggest that LI‐rTMS can be used to noninvasively promote myelin addition to the brain, which has potential implications for the treatment of demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
Modifiable risk factors for advanced vs. early breast cancer in the French E3N cohort
Authors: Veron Lucie , Gelot Amandine , Gusto Gaelle , Arveux Patrick , Delaloge Suzette , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine
Published: April 2019

Advanced breast cancer (BC) is associated with heavier treatments and poorer prognosis than early BC. Despite mammographic screening, advanced BC incidence remains stable. Little is known about risk factors differentially associated with advanced BC. We analyzed factors predicting for postmenopausal advanced vs. early BC in the E3N cohort. E3N has been prospectively following 98,995 French women aged 50–65 years at baseline since 1990. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for advanced and early invasive BC were estimated with multivariate Cox competing risk hazard models. With a median follow‐up of 15.7 years, 4,941 postmenopausal BC were diagnosed, including 1,878 (38%) advanced BC. Compared to early BC, advanced BC was differentially associated with excess weight (HR 1.39 [95% CI = 1.26–1.53] vs. 1.08 [95% CI = 1.00–1.17], phomogeneity < 0.0001) and living in a rural area (HR 1.14 [95% CI = 1.00–1.31] vs. 0.93 [95% CI = 0.82–1.04], phomogeneity 0.02). Excess weight was the only differential risk factor for advanced BC for hormone‐dependent BC and for women compliant with screening recommendations. Previous mammography was associated with reduced advanced BC risk (HR 0.86 [95% CI = 0.73–1.00]) and increased early BC risk (HR 1.36 [95% CI = 1.18–1.56], phomogeneity < 0.0001), but only for hormone‐dependent BC. Excess weight appears to be mostly associated with advanced BC, especially hormone‐dependent BC. These results add to the evidence for maintaining weight within the recommended limits.
Photobiomodulation increases intrusion tooth movement and modulates IL‐6, IL‐8 and IL‐1β expression during orthodontically bone remodeling
Authors: Fernandes Marcella R. U. , Suzuki Selly S. , Suzuki Hideo , Martinez Elizabeth F. , Garcez Aguinaldo S.
Published: April 2019

This study investigated the effects of photobiomodulation (PBM) on upper molar intrusion movement, regarding acceleration of orthodontic movement and its molecular effects. The sample consisted of 30 patients with indication of tooth intrusion for oral rehabilitation. Teeth were divided into three different groups: G1 (n = 10) pre‐molars without force or laser application (control); G2 (n = 10) upper molar intrusion; and G3 (n = 10) upper molar intrusion and PBM. On PBM treated molars, the teeth were irradiated with a low‐power diode laser (808 nm, 100 mW), receiving 1 J per point, density of 25 J/cm2, with application of 10 s per point, 10 points (5 per vestibular and 5 per palatal region). Orthodontic force of intrusion applied every 30 days and PBM was performed immediately, 3 and 7 days after force application for 3 months. Gingival crevicular fluid was collected at the same time periods as the laser applications and interleukins (IL) 1‐β, ‐6 and ‐8 were evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Clinical measures were performed monthly to verify the amount of intrusion. The levels of IL‐6, IL‐8 and IL‐1β increased under orthodontic force (G2 and G3) when compared to control group (G1), however, the cytokines levels were significantly higher after PBM (G3). The mean intrusion velocity was 0.26 mm/month in the irradiated group (G3), average duration of 8 months vs 0.17 mm/month for the non‐irradiated group (G2), average duration of 12 months. This study suggests that PBM accelerates tooth movement during molar intrusion, due to modulation of IL‐6, IL‐8 and IL‐1β during bone remodeling.
Overexpression miR‐24‐3p repressed Bim expression to confer tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer
Authors: Han Xu , Li Qiaobei , Liu Chang , Wang Chunyan , Li Yinyan
Published: April 2019

Endocrine therapy resistance represents a major challenge to the successful treatment of patients with breast cancer. The development of tamoxifen resistance commonly occurrs during the treatment of patients with breast cancer whereas its underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we found that miR‐24‐3p regulated tamoxifen sensitivity in breast cancer cells. Forced overexpression of miR‐24‐3p augmented tamoxifen‐induced cell viability inhibition in breast cancer cells, while knockdown of miR‐24‐3p partially attenuated the cytotoxicity effect of tamoxifen. Moreover, we discovered Bim as a target gene of miR‐24‐3p in breast cancer cells by RNA immunoprecipitation, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and dual luciferase reporter assay. In our established tamoxifen resistant MCF7 cell line (MCF7/TAM), there was a significant elevation of miR‐24‐3p and decrease of BIM expression compared with parental MCF7 cells. In addition, the inhibition of miR‐24‐3p could reverse the tamoxifen resistance of MCF7/TAM cells by the induction of cell apoptosis. Silencing of Bim expression blocked miR‐24‐3p inhibitor–induced elevation of tamoxifen sensitivity of MCF7/TAM cells. Using tumor tissues from patients with breast cancer, we also found that the expression of miR‐24‐3p was negatively correlated with Bim mRNA expression. Collectively, our study highlighted the pivotal role of miR‐24‐3p overexpression in mediating the development of tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer and suggested miR‐24‐3p might be a predictor or target for patients with breast cancer.
ESRRG promoter hypermethylation as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Shen Zhisen , Hu Yan , Zhou Chongchang , Yuan Jie , Xu Jie , Hao Wenjuan , Deng Hongxia , Ye Dong
Published: April 2019

Background

Estrogen‐related receptor gamma (ESRRG) has been identified as a tumor suppressor gene in several cancers. We aimed to evaluate ESRRG promoter methylation in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) and its relative clinical value in LSCC.

Methods

Bisulfite pyrosequencing assays were performed on 91 pairs of tumor and paracancer tissues from LSCC patients in China. The diagnostic value and overall survival (OS) were analyzed descriptively by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the Kaplan‐Meier methods, respectively.

Results

The ESRRG promoter was more frequently hypermethylated in tumor tissues than in adjacent tissues (P < 0.01). ESRRG promoter methylation was significantly increased in advanced T stage tumors (P < 0.01) and advanced clinical stage patients (P < 0.01). Moreover, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) value (0.81) indicated high discrimination accuracy. Furthermore, ESRRG hypermethylation was associated with poor OS, as confirmed by Kaplan‐Meier survival curves (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Our study indicated that ESRRG promoter hypermethylation contributed to LSCC‐related risks, primarily tumor progression and survival prognosis, in patients. ESRRG promoter methylation could, therefore, be a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in LSCC.
HbA1c showed a positive association with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level in only diabetes, not prediabetic or normal individuals
Authors: Chung Soie , Lee Yunhwan , Roh Eun Youn
Published: April 2019

Background

This study was conducted to investigate the association of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in normal, prediabetic, and diabetic subjects.

Methods

A total of 2,911 participants who underwent general health checkups were enrolled and categorized into the normal, prediabetes, and diabetes groups. Demographic, anthropological, and clinical variables were investigated, and correlations with CEA were analyzed. For 28 diabetic subjects with CEA levels above the upper limit, the follow‐up CEA and HbA1c data were analyzed.

Results

Carcinoembryonic antigen levels were significantly different among the normal, prediabetes, and diabetes groups (1.7 ± 1.1 vs 2.0 ± 1.1 vs 2.5 ± 1.5; P < 0.001), and men had higher CEA levels than women in all three groups. Correlation analysis identified a significant positive correlation between serum CEA and HbA1c in the diabetes group using unadjusted and adjusted models (r = 0.189, P < 0.001 and r = 0.218, P < 0.001), and multiple linear regression analysis also revealed that HbA1c was independently and positively correlated with CEA in the diabetes group (β = 0.275, P < 0.001). However, these relationships were inconsistent in the normal and prediabetes groups. The changes in CEA and HbA1c from baseline to follow‐up (delta CEA and delta HbA1c) showed a significant positive correlation (P = 0.021).

Conclusions

In diabetes, the CEA level was independently and positively correlated with glycemic control status. Additionally, the change in CEA level (delta CEA) showed a positive correlation with the change in HbA1c level (delta HbA1c) in the follow‐up data analysis.
Intelligent TAT‐coupled anti‐HER2 immunoliposomes knock downed MDR1 to produce chemosensitize phenotype of multidrug resistant carcinoma
Authors: Gholamian Dehkordi Neda , Elahian Fatemeh , Khosravian Pegah , Mirzaei Seyed Abbas
Published: April 2019

Gene therapy using biocompatible cationic liposomes is amongst promising approaches that decreases death from cancers. Here an invasive multidrug resistant cell model has been developed by lentiviral transfection. In parallel phospholipids have been covalently conjugated to TAT, MMP2, and Herceptin. The functional lipids have been mixed to generate intelligent liposome harboring small interfering RNA (siRNA) with high efficiency. The final liposomal complex was uniformly monodisperse and particle dimension and zeta‐potential were respectively around 200 nm and −42.21 mV. Minimal cytotoxic effects have been reported for nanocarriers due to good biocompatibility of the selected phospholipids. Flourescence‐activated cell sorter (FACS) analyses have been represented that surface trastuzumab and TAT speciﬁcally promote cellular uptake of liposomes in the malignant tumor cells. Assessment of MDR1 transcript and protein expression has been exhibited maximum significant downregulation around of 128‐fold and 50‐fold, respectively after 48 hr of liposome exposure. As it has been concluded, targeted liposomes may become a potential tool in gene delivery for improving chemotherapeutic efficiency in cancer treatment.
Boron removal and antifouling properties of thin‐film nanocomposite membrane incorporating PECVD‐modified titanate nanotubes
Authors: Ng Zhi‐Chien , Chong Chun‐Yew , Lau Woei‐Jye , Karaman Mustafa , Ismail Ahmad F
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Incorporation of nanofillers into the polyamide (PA) layer of thin‐film composite (TFC) membrane could improve membrane surface properties for enhanced water separation efficiency. However, most nanofillers do not disperse well in organic medium. In this work, the surface of titanate nanotubes (TNTs) was modified via the plasma‐enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD) method in order to promote its dispersion rate (in organic medium) during thin‐film nanocomposite (TFN) membrane fabrication.

RESULTS

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed the surface chemistry of TNTs coated by hexafluorobutyl acrylate (HFBA) or hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) via PECVD method. The effects of embedding modified TNTs into the PA layer on membrane surface morphology, hydrophilicity and performance were also investigated and the results were further compared with commercial reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. It was found that the incorporation of HFBA‐ and HEMA‐modified TNTs could enhance the membrane water permeability by >25% and >40%, respectively, without compromising their salt rejection. The boron rejections of TFN membranes incorporated with HFBA‐ and HEMA‐modified TNTs meanwhile were recorded at 75.56% and 70.73%, respectively; these values were relatively higher than those for the self‐synthesized TFC (68.57%) and commercial RO membranes (37–39%). The developed TFN membranes also exhibited higher fouling tolerance than the commercial RO membranes, achieving >94% of water flux regeneration as a result of enhanced membrane surface hydrophilicity.

CONCLUSION

Compared to hydrophilic modification using HEMA, nanofillers modified by hydrophobic HFBA proved more effective at producing a PA layer with better nanofiller distribution, making the resultant TFN membrane more suitable for desalination processes. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
The investigation of an electric arc in a plasma chemical reactor for hazardous waste treatment
Authors: Valincius Vitas , Kėželis Romualdas , Gimžauskaitė Dovilė , Grigaitienė Viktorija , Valatkevičius Pranas
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Research was performed to reveal the main peculiarities of an operating electric arc in a plasma chemical reactor (PChR) for hazardous waste processing. The experimental study was performed in a model of PChR using thermal plasma as a heat source. Investigations described are conducted to study the voltage–current characteristics (VCC) and heat transfer between an electric arc and a flat anode during the free arc operation in an ambient nitrogen (N2) atmosphere.

RESULTS

Plasma torch (PT) parameters varied in the range of I = 100–600 A, U = 50–450 V, x = 0–400 mm, G = 2–4 g s−1 at atmospheric pressure using N2 as plasma‐forming gas. It was found that the power value of the laminar arc increased with increasing arc current and length. With increasing arc length, its initial part started to operate in a turbulent regime. It was observed that the region of laminar regime appeared in the area where arc power was inversely proportional to arc current. The dependence of the heat flux transferred by the electrons to the anode on arc current was determined. The distribution of convective heat flux density over the anode heating spot was analyzed and generalized. The experimental data on convective heat transfer in the anode (mean and critical point) were discussed.

CONCLUSION

This confirmed that plasma technology has several advantages over conventional incineration including higher temperatures, independence of heat source from the waste being destroyed or additional fuel, and shorter exposure time of hazards in the high‐temperature area. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Light and transmission electron microscopic structure of skin glands and dermal scales of a caecilian amphibian Gegeneophis ramaswamii, with a note on antimicrobial property of skin gland secretion
Authors: Arun Damodaran , Akbarsha Mohammad A. , Oommen Oommen V. , Divya Lekha
Published: April 2019

Amphibian skin secretions contain a variety of bioactive compounds that are involved in diverse roles such as communication, homeostasis, defence against predators, pathogens, and so on. Especially, the caecilian amphibians possess numerous cutaneous glands that produce the secretory material, which facilitate survival in their harsh subterranean environment. Inspite of the fact that India has a fairly abundant distribution of caecilian amphibians, there has hardly been any study on their skin and its secretion. Herein, we describe, using light microscopy and electron microscopy, two types of dermal glands, mucous and granular, in Gegeneophis ramaswamii. The mucous glands are filled with mucous materials. The mucous‐producing cells are located near the periphery. The granular glands are surrounded by myoepithelial cells. A large number of granules of different sizes are present in the lumen of the granular gland. The granule‐producing cells are present near the myoepithelial lining of the gland. There are small flat disk‐like dermal scales in pockets in the transverse ridges of the posterior region of the body. Each pocket contains 1–4 scales of various sizes. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) study of the skin surface showed numerous funnel‐shaped glandular openings. The antibacterial activity of the skin secretions was revealed in the test against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Aeromonas hydrophila, all gram‐negative bacteria. SEM analyses confirm the membrane damage in bacterial cells on exposure to skin secretions of G. ramaswamii.
Comparative evaluation of molecular methods for the quantitative measure of torquetenovirus viremia, the new surrogate marker of immune competence
Authors: Macera Lisa , Spezia Pietro Giorgio , Medici Chiara , Rofi Eleonora , Del Re Marzia , Focosi Daniele , Mazzetti Paola , Navarro David , Antonelli Guido , Danesi Romano , Pistello Mauro , Maggi Fabrizio
Published: April 2019

Background

Torquetenovirus (TTV) viremia is emerging as a promising tool to assess functional immune competence, to predict posttransplant immune‐related complications, and eventually to customize immunosuppression.

Methods

In this study, 327 blood samples were tested using two real‐time PCR (rtPCR) assays both targeted to the untranslated region of the TTV genome. The first assay was an in‐house rtPCR developed by our group, the second one was the recently marketed TTV R‐GENE assay.

Results

In the validation study, the TTV R‐GENE showed good performances in precision and reproducibility, and sensitivity as low as 12 TTV DNA copies/mL, like previously reported for the in‐house rtPCR. The Bland‐Altman analysis showed that the mean difference between the two methods was −0.3 log copies/mL. In the comparison study, 69% and 72% of samples were detected positive by rtPCR and TTV R‐GENE, respectively (94% concordance, κ = 0.88). Performances did not differ between the two rtPCRs by type of TTV group examined. When a newly‐developed in‐house digital droplet PCR was applied for TTV quantification and used as an alternative method of comparison on 94 samples, the results strongly correlated with those obtained by the two rtPCR methods (99% concordance).

Conclusion

In summary, all the molecular methods assayed are highly sensitive and accurate in quantitation of TTV DNA in blood samples.
Effect of heat treatment on the binding of selected flavor compounds to myofibrillar proteins
Authors: Xu Yongxia , Zhao Jiamei , Wang Rui , Li Xuepeng , Mi Hongbo , Li Jianrong
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

The influence of heat‐induced structural modifications of grass carp myofibrillar protein (MP) on its ability to bind to selected aldehydes (hexanal, heptanal, octanal and nonanal) was investigated. The interactions of MP and flavor compounds were investigated using HS‐GC‐MS, intrinsic fluorescence spectra, Raman spectra, SDS‐PAGE, turbidity, total sulfhydryl content and surface hydrophobicity.

RESULTS

The ability to bind to aldehydes was strongly influenced by changes in the structure and surface of proteins during the heating process (0–30 min). During the first 0–10 min of heating, the flavor‐binding ability increased, which is likely attributable to increased surface hydrophobicity and total sulfhydryl content, and to the unfolding of secondary structures of MP by exposure to reactive amino acids, sulfhydryl groups and hydrophobic bonding sites. Nevertheless, lengthy heating (>10 min) caused protein refolding and accelerated aggregation of protein, thus reducing hydrophobic interactions and weakening the resultant capacity of MP to bind to flavor compounds.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that hydrophobic interactions were enhanced upon short‐term heating, whereas long‐term heating weakend them. The results provide information concerning improvement of the flavor profile of freshwater fish surimi products. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Navigating difficult conversations
Authors: Johnston Fabian M. , Beckman Michael
Published: April 2019

Breaking bad news and navigating difficult conversations is challenging and a frequent occurrence in surgical oncology practice. Cancer communication recommendations are guided by ethical principles, legal precedence, and emerging evidence regarding patient preference and efficacy of communication tools. Evidence continues to mount supporting a patient‐centered communication approach and a model of shared decision making. Likewise, physician training in effective patient‐centered cancer communication continues to evolve.
Ubiquitin specific peptidase 49 inhibits non‐small cell lung cancer cell growth by suppressing PI3K/AKT signaling
Authors: Shen Wen‐Ming , Yin Jin‐Nan , Xu Rui‐Jun , Xu Da‐Fu , Zheng Shi‐Ying
Published: April 2019

Ubiquitin specific peptidase 49 (USP49) has been reported as a tumor suppressor in several tumors, but its function and molecular mechanism in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are still unknown. In this study, USP49 was found downregulated in NSCLC primary tissues and cell lines, and high USP49 predicted a positive index for the overall survival of NSCLC patients. Overexpression of USP49 downregulated the expression levels of Cyclin D1, and upregulated p53 expression. Further flow cytometry analysis showed that overexpressed USP49 induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase. As a result, overexpression of USP49 significantly inhibited cell growth of NSCLC cells. In mechanism, overexpression of USP49 inhibited PI3K/AKT signaling, but knockdown of USP49 enhanced this signaling. Further studies indicated that USP49 deubiquitinated PTEN and stabilized PTEN protein, which suggested that USP49 inhibited PI3K/AKT signaling by stabilizing PTEN in NSCLC cells. In conclusion, we demonstrated that USP49 was functional in NSCLC cells, and inhibited NSCLC cell growth by suppressing PI3K/AKT signaling, suggesting that USP49 could be as a novel target for NSCLC therapy.
YWHAE promotes proliferation, metastasis, and chemoresistance in breast cancer cells
Authors: Yang Yi‐Fang , Lee Yi‐Chen , Wang Yen‐Yun , Wang Chie‐Hong , Hou Ming‐Feng , Yuan Shyng‐Shiou F.
Published: April 2019

Breast cancer is the most common female‐specific malignancy in Taiwan and developed countries worldwide, and its incidence continues to grow. 14‐3‐3ε (YWHAE), which belong to 14‐3‐3 family, it has been reported up‐regulated in breast cancer tissues. However, the clinical implication and function of YWHAE in breast cancer remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the prognostic value of the YWHAE in human breast cancer. Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze YWHAE expression in breast cancer tissues. Cell model was applied to examine the functions of YWHAE. The chemotherapeutic agents were used to evaluate the effect of YWHAE in breast cancer cell lines. YWHAE expression was associated with tumor size, lymph node metastasis, and poor patient survival in patients with breast cancer. YWHAE overexpression significantly increased the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of breast cancer cells. Knockdown of YWHAE expression reduced the expression of Snail and Twist in breast cancer cells. We also found that YWHAE was responsible for the resistance of breast cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents, and knockdown of YWHAE enhanced sensitivity to multiple chemotherapeutic agents in breast cancer cells. Taken together, our findings indicated that YWHAE promoted cancer progression and chemoresistance in breast cancer cells and can be a potential therapeutic target for breast cancer.
The Influence of Macromolecular Structure and Composition on Mechanical Properties of Films Cast from Solvent‐Free Polyurethane/Acrylic Hybrid Dispersions
Authors: Mehravar Samane , Ballard Nicholas , Tomovska Radmila , Asua José M.
Published: April 2019

Polyurethane (PU) /acrylic dispersions are of great commercial interest due to the synergetic combination of the PU and acrylic polymers. In this work, a series of PU/acrylic dispersions is synthesized by a solvent‐free technique and the influence of colloidal structure, grafting between the two polymers, and the nature of the two polymer phases themselves on the mechanical properties of films cast from the dispersions is explored. TEM analysis shows that the particles have a PU shell/acrylic core structure which is translated into the morphology of films cast from the dispersions. This particle/film morphology leads to the acrylic copolymer acting as a filler material and allows high Tg copolymers to be employed, leading to films with very high mechanical strength. Grafting of the PU and acrylic phases leads to increased compatibility but has little effect on the mechanical properties which are largely determined by the hardness of both the diol used in the PU synthesis and more importantly the acrylic (co)polymer composition. This work allows us to propose a series of design principles in order to synthesize PU/acrylic hybrids with controlled mechanical properties.