bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐content analysis boosts identification of the initial cause of triptolide‐induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Zheng Nan , Wang Tiantian , Wei Aili , Chen Wei , Zhao Changqi , Li Hua , Wang Lili
Published: June 2019

Triptolide (TP) has been widely used in China for more than 40 years as an immunosuppressive agent. Recently, serious concerns have been raised over TP‐induced liver injury, though the real hepatotoxic mechanism is still unclear, particularly in terms of the initial cause. To our knowledge, this study is the first to screen systematically the mechanism of TP‐induced toxicity through a global cytotoxicity profile high‐content analysis using three independent cytotoxic assay panels with multiple endpoints of cytotoxicity, including cell loss, mitochondrial membrane potential, nuclear membrane permeability, manganese superoxide dismutase, phosphorylated gamma‐H2AX, light chain 3B, lysosome, reactive oxygen species and glutathione. We assessed nine parameters and four stress response pathway models by labeling nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2, activating transcription factor 6, hypoxia inducible factor 1α and nuclear factor κB and found that all testing parameters except glutathione and manganese superoxide dismutase showed concentration‐ and time‐dependent changes, as well as increased cell loss after TP treatment. Considering that RNA polymerase II is the molecular target of TP, we quantified transcription from inducible genes, bromodeoxyuridine incorporation, and expression from transiently transfected green fluorescence protein plasmids in HepG2 cells. The results show that inhibition of global transcription by TP took place at earlier times and at lower concentrations than those observed for cell death. Therefore, global transcriptional suppression and the cell dysfunction it drives play a central role in TP‐induced hepatotoxicity. This provides valuable information for the safe use of TP in the clinic.
Pentosidine Is Associated With Cortical Bone Geometry and Insulin Resistance in Otherwise Healthy Children
Authors: Kindler Joseph M , Laing Emma M , Liu Weixi , Dain Joel A , Lewis Richard D
Published: June 2019

Pentosidine is an advanced glycation end product (AGE) associated with fracture in adults with diabetes. AGE accumulation in bone collagen contributes to bone fragility but might also adversely influence bone turnover and, consequently, bone geometry. The relationships between AGEs and bone health have yet to be studied in children. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess relationships between pentosidine and cortical bone volumetric density, geometry, and estimated strength in children. Participants were otherwise healthy black and white boys and girls, ages 9 to 13 years, who were at sexual maturation stage 2 or 3 (N = 160). Tibia and radius cortical bone and muscle area (66% site) were assessed via pQCT. In fasting sera, insulin, glucose, and pentosidine were measured. The Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI), a measure of insulin sensitivity, was calculated. While controlling for race, sex, maturation, and height, pentosidine negatively correlated with QUICKI (P < 0.05). In unadjusted analyses, pentosidine was associated with lower radius and tibia cortical volumetric bone mineral density, bone mineral content (Ct.BMC), area (Ct.Ar), and thickness (Ct.Th); a larger radius endosteal circumference (Endo.Circ); and lower tibia polar strength strain index (all P < 0.05). While controlling for race, sex, maturation, height, and muscle area, pentosidine was negatively associated with tibia Ct.BMC, Ct.Ar, and Ct.Th but positively associated with Endo.Circ (all P < 0.05). Linear regression revealed a significant interaction between pentosidine and QUICKI in relation to tibia Ct.Th (pinteraction = 0.049), indicating that the negative relationship between pentosidine and Ct.Th was stronger in those with lower QUICKI (ie, greater insulin resistance). This is the first study to report evidence of a potentially adverse influence of AGEs on bone strength in otherwise healthy children. This relationship was strongest in children with the greatest insulin resistance, supporting further work in youth with chronic metabolic health conditions. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Enolase1 overexpression regulates the growth of gastric cancer cells and predicts poor survival
Authors: Qiao Hui , Wang Yufeng , Zhu Bingdong , Jiang Lei , Yuan Wenzhen , Zhou Yongning , Guan Quanlin
Published: June 2019

Gastric cancer has become the third most common cancer around the world. In patients with gastric cancer, the 5‐year survival rate is still low. However, the mechanism underlying gastric cancer remains largely unknown. As a glycolytic enzyme, enolase 1 (ENO1) is widely expressed in most tissues. The functions of ENO1 have been reported in various types of cancer. Here in this study, we identified that ENO1 promoted the growth of gastric cancer cells through diverse mechanisms. Our immunohistochemical, bioinformatic and Western blot data showed that ENO1 was significantly overexpressed in human gastric cancer cell lines and tissues. The survival analysis revealed that ENO1 overexpression predicted poor survival in the patients suffering gastric cancer. Knockdown of ENO1 expression repressed the rate of proliferation and capacity of colony formation in two human gastric cancer cell lines (MGC‐803 and MKN‐45). In addition, knockdown of the expression of ENO1 led to the arrest of the cell cycle at the G1 phase and promoted the apoptosis of MKN‐45 and MGC‐803 cells. The further microarray and bioinformatic analysis revealed that ENO1 regulated the expression of diverse genes, many of which are involved in the progress of cancer. Taken together, our data demonstrated that ENO1 was an oncogene‐like factor and might serve as a promising target for the treatment of human gastric cancer.
miR‐34a‐5p was involved in chronic intermittent hypoxia‐induced autophagy of human coronary artery endothelial cells via Bcl‐2/beclin 1 signal transduction pathway
Authors: Lv Xin , Wang Kexin , Tang Wenwen , Yu Lei , Cao Huan , Chi Weiwei , Wang Baoshan
Published: June 2019

Autophagy refers to the genetically regulated process to regulate the survival and death of cells, which is conserved in evolution. Typically, autophagy exerts a vital part under physiopathological conditions. Whether autophagy can be resulted from chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), a prominent characteristic of obstructive sleep apnea‐hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), remains to be investigated. Furthermore, microRNAs (miRNAs) can serve as the regulating factors in a variety of benign and malignant diseases; nonetheless, it remains to be fully illustrated about the way by which miRNAs modulate autophagy. According to our results, for human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs), CIH increased the expression of autophagy‐associated proteins, which depended on the concentration and time; besides, it could promote autophagic vacuole (AV) formation. In addition, CIH could activate beclin 1, which was dependent on dose and time. In HCAECs, microRNA‐34a‐5p (miR‐34a‐5p) was overexpressed after exposed to CIH, and its target protein B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2) was downregulated. Moreover, inhibiting miR‐34a‐5p increased Bcl‐2 and p62 expression, while downregulating beclin 1, Vps34, Atg5, and LC3 levels, implying the role of miR‐34a‐5p in CIH‐induced autophagy. Moreover, exogenous upregulation of Bcl‐2 could block miR‐34a‐5p influence on CIH‐induced autophagy through suppressing beclin 1 expression. Additionally, beclin 1 could enhance the autophagy induced by CIH. In conclusion, overexpression of miR‐34a‐5p activated beclin 1 through Bcl‐2 inhibition in CIH and participated in CIH‐induced autophagy.
MLatom: A program package for quantum chemical research assisted by machine learning
Authors: Dral Pavlo O.
Published: June 2019

MLatom is a program package designed for computationally efficient simulations of atomistic systems with machine‐learning (ML) algorithms. It can be used out‐of‐the‐box as a stand‐alone program with a user‐friendly online manual. The use of MLatom does not require extensive knowledge of machine learning, programming, or scripting. The user need only prepare input files and choose appropriate options. The program implements kernel ridge regression and supports Gaussian, Laplacian, and Matérn kernels. It can use arbitrary, user‐provided input vectors and can convert molecular geometries into input vectors corresponding to several types of built‐in molecular descriptors. MLatom saves and re‐uses trained ML models as needed, in addition to estimating the generalization error of ML setups. Various sampling procedures are supported and the gradients of output properties can be calculated. The core part of MLatom is written in Fortran, uses standard libraries for linear algebra, and is optimized for shared‐memory parallel computations. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Elucidation of the mechanism underlying CD44v6‐induced transformation of IEC‐6 normal intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Chung Shin‐Yi , Huang Wen‐Chen , Chen Zong‐Siang , Chao Ta‐Chung , Su Yeu
Published: June 2019

The transformation abilities of CD44s and CD44v6 in normal intestinal epithelial cells have not yet been reported. Herein, we established both CD44s and CD44v6 overexpressing stable clones from rat IEC‐6 cells and demonstrated that the CD44v6 clones had higher saturation density and anchorage independence. Additionally, CD44v6 clones were more resistant to oxaliplatin and irinotecan which might be attributed to a significantly increased B‐cell lymphoma 2 level and a reduced DNA damage response in these cells. Moreover, c‐Met and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 signalings were involved in modulating the saturation density in CD44v6 clones. Interestingly, higher activation of both AKT and extracellular‐signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) were detected in CD44v6 clones which might account in part for the cell density‐independent nuclear localization of Yes‐associated protein (YAP). To no surprise, increases of both saturation density and anchorage independence in CD44v6 clones were markedly diminished by PI3K, AKT, MEK, and ERK inhibitors as well as YAP knockdown. By contrast, overexpression of a constitutively active YAP robustly increased the aforementioned phenotypes in IEC‐6 cells. Collectively, our results suggest that upregulation of CD44v6, but not CD44s, induces the transformation of normal intestinal epithelial cells possibly via activating the c‐Met/AKT/YAP pathway which might also explain the important role of CD44v6 in the initiation of various carcinomas.
Assessment of niobium phosphate as heterogeneous catalyst in esterification with methyl acetate
Authors: Alves Matheus AL , Pinheiro Nadini SC , Brondani Leoni N , Celante Dian , Ketzer Felipe , Castilhos Fernanda
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

The aim of this work was to investigate the esterification reaction from oleic acid with methyl acetate (MeA) catalyzed by niobium phosphate to produce methyl esters. This catalyst has an amorphous structure and large surface area. Catalytic tests were performed according to an experimental design. The results were analyzed statistically and all of the variables were significant, especially the temperature.

RESULTS

A kinetic study of the reaction was carried out and the most suitable reaction conditions were 240 °C, 10% (m/m) of catalyst and MeA: oleic acid molar ratio 10:1. After 2 h, it was possible to obtain ≈80% (m/m) methyl oleate content. A noncatalytic test corroborated niobium phosphate activity in the reaction. A kinetic model fitted experimental data for the catalyzed and noncatalyzed reactions; kinetics parameters for Arrhenius equation were estimated. In a reuse test, the catalyst showed a gradual decrease in catalytic activity over five reaction cycles.

CONCLUSION

Niobium phosphate can be considered as a promising heterogeneous catalyst for biodiesel synthesis. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Alternative oxidase confers nutritional limitation on Drosophila development
Authors: Saari Sina , Kemppainen Esko , Tuomela Tea , Oliveira Marcos T. , Dufour Eric , Jacobs Howard T.
Published: June 2019

The mitochondrial alternative oxidase, AOX, present in most eukaryotes apart from vertebrates and insects, catalyzes the direct oxidation of ubiquinol by oxygen, by‐passing the terminal proton‐motive steps of the respiratory chain. Its physiological role is not fully understood, but it is proposed to buffer stresses in the respiratory chain similar to those encountered in mitochondrial diseases in humans. Previously, we found that the ubiquitous expression of AOX from Ciona intestinalis in
Drosophila perturbs the development of flies cultured under low‐nutrient conditions (media containing only glucose and yeast). Here we tested the effects of a wide range of nutritional supplements on
Drosophila development, to gain insight into the physiological mechanism underlying this developmental failure. On low‐nutrient medium, larvae contained decreased amounts of triglycerides, lactate, and pyruvate, irrespective of AOX expression. Complex food supplements, including treacle (molasses), restored normal development to AOX‐expressing flies, but many individual additives did not. Inhibition of AOX by treacle extract was excluded as a mechanism, since the supplement did not alter the enzymatic activity of AOX in vitro. Furthermore, antibiotics did not influence the organismal phenotype, indicating that commensal microbes were not involved. Fractionation of treacle identified a water‐soluble fraction with low solubility in ethanol, rich in lactate and tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates, which contained the critical activity. We propose that the partial activation of AOX during metamorphosis impairs the efficient use of stored metabolites, resulting in developmental failure.
Iron overload and arrhythmias: Influence of confounding factors
Authors: Shizukuda Yukitaka , Rosing Douglas R.
Published: June 2019

Arrhythmias as a cardiac complication of iron overload (IO) have been well described for decades in the clinical literature. They are assumed to be directly associated with the myocardial accumulation of iron. However, the influence of heart failure and elevated oxidative stress, which are major arrhythmogenic confounding factors associated with IO on arrhythmias, has not been critically reviewed in the published literature. A comprehensive narrative review of published articles in PubMed was conducted to address the influence of confounding factors of IO on arrhythmias. The previous data may have been largely confounded by the other cardiac complications of IO, particularly heart failure. The previous studies on IO‐related arrhythmias lack proper age‐gender–matched control subjects and/or comparison groups with properly controlled confounding factors to assess accurately their etiology and clinical significance. Given the above considerations, further mechanistic investigations to clarify the etiology and clinical relevance of IO‐induced arrhythmias are needed. In addition, investigations to develop arrhythmia management strategy specific to IO, are warranted.
How well do climate models simulate regional atmospheric circulation over East Asia?
Authors: Zhao Can , Jiang Zhihong , Sun Xiaojuan , Li Wei , Li Laurent
Published: June 2019

This study presents a comprehensive and quantitative evaluation of the mean state of summer atmospheric circulation over East Asia. Attention is paid to the South Asian high (SAH), western North Pacific subtropical high (WNPSH) and Indian low (IL) at the upper, middle and lower troposphere, respectively. A total of 31 state‐of‐the‐art climate models from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) are used as examples for the analysis. Most models can basically simulate the three closed‐circulation systems (CCSs), although there is a certain inter‐model spread and an underestimation of their intensity. In terms of geographic location, models demonstrated the best performance for SAH and the poorest performance for WNPSH. The latter shows a generally south‐westward shift compared to the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) reanalysis. Five atmospheric fields (zonal and meridional wind at 850 hPa, geopotential height at 500 and 100 hPa and sea level pressure) are inspected and generally well reproduced in models, with Taylor‐S indices all larger than 0.84 for 90% of the models. The best performance is for the geopotential height of 500 hPa with an average Taylor‐S index of 0.98. Models’ skill in simulating the sea level pressure is the lowest. However, a significant positive correlation with models' resolution is observed. Almost all models underestimate the 100 hPa geopotential height over East Asia, mainly due to the common cold bias in the troposphere. As a whole, CCSM4, CNRM‐CM5, CESM1‐CAM5 and NorESM1‐M are identified as high‐skill models for simulating the East Asian atmospheric circulation. High‐skill models also show better simulation of precipitations in East China, with a 21.3% decrease of dry biases in Southeast China. The physical explanation for this linkage is also reported to reside in the central position of the WNPSH, which determines the quality of 850 hPa winds and water vapour transport in Southeast China.
Chinese venturers to Pacific Small Island Developing States: Travel and lifestyle
Authors: Lau Chloe K.H. , Fan Daisy X.F. , Milne Simon , Qiu Hanqin , Sun Minghui
Published: June 2019

This study emphasizes the necessity to understand the needs of the growing Chinese market, while also assessing how ready Small Island Developing States of the South Pacific are for these new visitors. Through a mixed method approach, combining individual visitor surveys and focus groups, this study investigates the lifestyle characteristics of outbound Chinese tourists to the Cook Islands and the motivation and travel behavior of these travelers. We refine a model for the travel lifestyle of Chinese tourists that has applicability to Small Island Developing States elsewhere around the world.
Unilateral versus bilateral sinonasal disease: Considerations in differential diagnosis and workup
Authors: Eckhoff Austin , Cox Daniel , Luk Lauren , Maidman Samuel , Wise Sarah K. , DelGaudio John M.
Published: June 2019

Objective

Imaging findings play an important role in the workup and diagnosis of sinonasal disease. Unilateral versus bilateral involvement is a key finding that can differentiate between various diagnoses. Our objective is to characterize presenting symptoms, imaging findings, and most common diagnoses associated with unilateral versus bilateral sinonasal disease.

Methods

Patients who underwent surgical intervention for sinonasal disease at Emory University between May 2015 and December 2016 were included in the study. Information including demographic variables, comorbidities, presenting symptoms, imaging findings, and pathologic diagnosis was collected for each patient. Unilateral versus bilateral disease was determined by preoperative computer tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, and correlated to surgical and pathologic findings. Data was analyzed using quantitative methodologies and descriptive statistics.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 250 patients presenting for primary sinonasal surgery, including 110 patients with unilateral disease and 140 patients with bilateral disease. The most common diagnosis for patients with bilateral disease was chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (46%) followed by chronic rhinosinusitis without polyps (26%). For patients with unilateral disease the most common diagnoses were chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps (21%), malignancy (19%), benign neoplasm (15%), and allergic fungal sinusitis (10%). There was a statistically significant association between unilateral sinonasal disease and the final diagnosis of benign neoplasm (OR = 7.8, P < .01) and malignancy (OR = 8, P < .01).

Conclusion

Patients with unilateral sinus disease on initial imaging are less likely chronic rhinosinusitis compared to patients with bilateral disease. This should be taken into consideration in the workup and management of patients with unilateral sinus disease.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 130:E116–E121, 2020
Elevated exosomal lysyl oxidase like 2 is a potential biomarker for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sanada Tomoyoshi , Islam Afsana , Kaminota Teppei , Kirino Yui , Tanimoto Reina , Yoshimitsu Hana , Yano Hajime , Mizuno Yosuke , Okada Masahiro , Mitani Souhei , Ugumori Tohru , Tanaka Junya , Hato Naohito
Published: June 2019

Objectives

The secretory enzyme lysyl oxidase like 2 (LOXL2) is speculated to contribute to tumor progression through its functions in the remodeling of extracellular matrix and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition. We previously identified elevated expression of LOXL2 in metastatic human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells in a mouse lymph node metastases model. Here we performed a case series study examining LOXL2 expression levels in human serum from HNSCC patients to evaluate whether LOXL2 is worth evaluation in a large cohort study.

Methods

LOXL2 protein levels in three serum samples from HNSCC patients were assessed by immunoblotting and LOXL2 tissue expression was examined in one human tongue squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) tissue by immunohistochemistry as a representative of HNSCC tissue. Serum samples were further fractionated in exosomes and supernatants by ultracentrifugation, which were then subjected to immunoblot and in vitro LOX activity analyses. Exosomal LOXL2 levels of 36 serum samples from HNSCC patients and seven healthy volunteers were measured using polymer sedimentation exosome preparation followed by ELISA measurement and subjected to statistical analyses.

Results

Immunoblot analyses revealed that LOXL2 was present in serum exosomal fractions from three HNSCC patients, and we observed approximately threefold higher levels of LOXL2 in HNSCC patients compared with three healthy volunteers. Immunohistochemical LOXL2 staining was detected in HNSCC cells in addition to non‐cancerous lipid tissues and some muscles in human tongue HNSCC tissue. Further measurements of exosomal LOXL2 by ELISA showed over ninefold higher mean LOXL2 levels in patients compared with controls. Statistical analysis revealed a correlation between elevated serum exosomal LOXL2 levels and low‐grade, but not high‐grade, HNSCC.

Conclusions

Our case series study that elevated serum exosomal LOXL2 levels exhibited a correlation with low‐grade HNSCCs. A follow‐up large cohort clinical study will be required to determine the potential clinical utility of LOXL2 as a new biomarker and/or therapy target for HNSCCs.

Level of Evidence

4

Laryngoscope, 130:E327–E334, 2020
Library Acquisitions Patterns: Review
Authors: Galbraith James
Published: June 2019

Key points

The Library Acquisitions Patterns (LAP) project examines acquisitions patterns across 124 US higher education institutions in FY2017 and a subset of 51 institutions over fiscal years 2014–2017.

The report began as a study of Amazon's impact as an academic library vendor, but expanded into a broader study of the purchasing of individual print and e‐book titles within a specific price range across all vendors.

The project uses data provided by academic libraries that use Ex Libris' ALMA integrated library system and OCLC's Worldshare Management Services (WMS); these systems do not allow users to create customized fields of data and so, theoretically, would provide more compatible data.

The report's strength is in defining high‐level acquisition patterns across academic libraries, vendors, and broad disciplinary fields; the analysis and findings are not granular.

The authors believe their report provides one of the broadest overviews of acquisitions patterns of US academic libraries than has ever been conducted to date; there is no reason to doubt them.

LAP demonstrates a methodology for study acquisitions and points to numerous other avenues of potential research.
Adipose‐Specific Expression, Developmental and Nutritional Regulation of the Gene‐Encoding Retinol‐Binding Protein 7 in Pigs
Authors: Ahn Jinsoo , Suh Yeunsu , Lee Kichoon
Published: June 2019

Modulation of expression of adipose tissue‐specific transcripts has been known to regulate adipogenesis and lipid metabolism. Recently, adipose‐specific expression patterns and developmental regulation of the gene‐encoding retinol‐binding protein 7 (RBP7) was identified. However, its expression in adipose tissue of the porcine species has yet to be explored. In this study, adipose tissue‐specific expression of porcine RBP7 was identified and conservation of the fatty acid‐binding domains and evolutionary relationship of the RBP7 gene were verified comparatively across mammalian species. Our in vitro and in vivo analysis of gene expression revealed that RBP7 expression was significantly high in fat cell fraction compared to stromal vascular cells (p < 0.05) and increased during development (p < 0.05). The level of RBP7 expression was upregulated during a 24‐h short‐term fasting intervention and restored 6 h after refeeding (p < 0.05). Taken together, these studies provide insights into the role of RBP7 in adipose tissue of pigs during development and nutritional intervention and pave the way for future studies on the regulation of retinol homeostasis in porcine adipose tissue.
A mathematical approach to the deferment option of an investment project
Authors: Cruz Rambaud Salvador , Sánchez Pérez Ana María
Published: June 2019

This paper presents a model to calculate the value of the real option to defer an investment project within one, two, and in general n periods. The methodology used to deduce the mathematical expression of this option is based on the binomial model by constructing all possible future scenarios as well as their associated probabilities. Consequently, this manuscript provides the expression to assess the operative flexibility of a project when its deferment is possible. Indeed, this is an easy‐to‐handle and reliable tool that allows more accurate forecasts to reduce the uncertainty around a project then facilitating the managerial decision‐making processes.
Recent achievements in developing selective Gq inhibitors
Authors: Zhang Hang , Nielsen Alexander L. , Strømgaard Kristian
Published: June 2019

G proteins are key mediators of G protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling, facilitating a plethora of important physiological processes. The role of G proteins is much less understood than other aspects of GPCR function, which is largely due to the shortage of potent and selective G protein inhibitors. The natural cyclic depsipeptides YM‐254890 and FR900359 are two of the very few known selective inhibitors of the Gq subfamily, and are used as unique pharmacological tools in the study of G
q‐mediated signaling. Moreover, a peptide‐based G protein antagonist‐2A (GP‐2A), a 27‐residue peptide (27mer(I860A)) derived from phospholipase C‐β3 (PLC‐β3), and the small molecule BIM‐46187 have also been characterized as selective G
q inhibitors within the past 5 years. In this review, we highlight the recent development in chemical syntheses, characterization, and mechanism of action of these selective G
q inhibitors. The development and application of G
q‐selective inhibitors will expand our knowledge of the structure and function of G protein‐mediated signaling, shed light on the development of inhibitors for other G protein classes, and feed in to drug discovery for diseases where G proteins are implicated, including various forms of cancer.
Comparison of Female Sexual Function Index in patients with psoriatic and rheumatoid arthritis and healthy controls
Authors: Boone Denise , Ronson Ashley , Karsh Jacob
Published: June 2019

Objective

The aim of the recent study was to identify and compare the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) of three female populations: those with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and healthy individuals.

Methods

In this descriptive correlational study, convenience sampling was used to recruit 50 female RA patients, 36 female PsA patients and 50 healthy women between June and September 2018.

Results

The mean ages of the RA patients, PsA patients and healthy controls were, respectively, 53.1 ± 11.8 years, 51.6 ± 13.7 years and 37.4 ± 10.4 years. Controls were significantly younger than RA (p < 0.001) and PsA (p = 0.002) patients. Data including all participants: Based on the total sexual functioning cut‐off score of 26.55, 68% of RA patients (34/50), 67% of PsA patients (22/33) and 44% of healthy controls (11/25) met the criteria for sexual dysfunction. Data excluding participants who reported not having had sex in the previous month: Controls had significantly higher FSFI scores than the RA patients across all six domains (p ≤ 0.001) and the overall score (p < 0.001). Controls had significantly higher FSFI scores than the PsA patients across four of the six domains (p ≤ 0.026) and the overall score (p = 0.008). There were no statistically significant differences between the RA and PsA groups. Patient pain, patient global status and Health Assessment Questionnaire scores were not significantly correlated with the total FSFI score in either PsA or RA.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that decreased sexual functioning is more common in women with RA and PsA when compared with controls. All female patients with RA and PsA should be screened for sexual dysfunction.
Thermal properties and electric modulus approach to the analysis of dielectric relaxation of nanocomposites based on carbon dots
Authors: Bouknaitir Ilham , Teixeira Silvia Soreto , Kreit Lamyaa , Panniello Annamaria , Fini Paola , Striccoli Marinella , Costa Luis Cadillon , Achour Mohammed Essaid
Published: June 2019

The investigation of thermal and dielectric properties of carbon dots dispersed in PMMA has been conducted in freestanding thin solid films. Thermal properties were studied using differential scanning calorimetry. Impedance spectroscopy, in the frequency range 100 Hz to 100 kHz and temperatures between 200 and 390 K, was used for the electrical characterization. Using the electric modulus formalism, it has been found that the Havriliak‐Negami model of dielectric relaxation is adequate to fit the experimental data, from which the relaxation parameters can be calculated. The inclusion of C‐Dots in PMMA provides a plasticizing effect on the polymer structure, giving rise to an increase in the mobility of PMMA chains, and consequent changes in the relaxation parameters.
Form and Force Closure of the Sacroiliac Joints
Authors: Vleeming Andry , Schuenke Mark
Published: June 2019

The principles of form and force closure were introduced to describe the complex mechanism of sacroiliac joint (SIJ) stability. Form closure refers to a theoretical stable state of a joint with close fitting articular surfaces, where no extra forces are needed to maintain the stable state of the system during loading and unloading situations. If the sacrum would fit in the pelvis with perfect form closure, no lateral compressional forces would be needed to maintain stability. However, such a construction would make mobility practically impossible. Force closure is the theoretical state where lateral force and friction resulting in joint compression, are required for the joint to withstand a vertical load. Structures that contribute to SIJ stability via “form closure” include (1) the configuration of the interfacing joint surfaces, along with dorsocranial “wedging” of the sacrum into the ilia; (2) the corresponding ridges and grooves of the articular surfaces of the SIJs and resultant high coefficient of friction; and (3) the integrity of the binding ligaments, which are among the strongest in the body. Shearing forces absorbed in the SIJ occur because of a combination of person‐specific anatomical features. This results in unique form and force closure situations that provide effective and tailored joint accommodation that balance both friction and compression in the joint. Force closure occurs because of altered joint reaction force via taut ligaments, fascia, muscles, and the ground reaction force they are reacting to at the moment. In the ideal state, force closure creates a perpendicular compressive reaction force to the SIJ to adapt and overcome the forces of gravity. In order for force closure to be effective, sacral nutation must occur and is considered to be anticipatory for joint loading. Sacral nutation results in tensing all of the dorsal SIJ ligaments (interosseous, dorsal sacroiliac) with the exception of one, the long dorsal ligament (LDL). This prepares the pelvis to absorb and increase in load. As a result, the posterior ilium are pressed together causing an increase in SIJ compression. This review will discuss the importance of understanding form and force closure principles because they are related to understanding the relationship of anatomy and function of the SIJ.
Crosslinked Polyvinylnorbornene‐Based Membranes as a New Class of Solvent‐Resistant Nanofiltration Membranes
Authors: Dujardin Wouter , Van Goethem Cédric , Steele Julian A. , Roeffaers Maarten , Vankelecom Ivo F. J. , Koeckelberghs Guy
Published: June 2019

Solvent resistant nanofiltration (SRNF) has received increasing attention since the turn of the century within energy‐ and waste‐efficient unit processes. This work explores the synthesis and characterization of crosslinked polynorbornenes for SRNF. A series of polyvinylnorbornene thin‐film composite membranes with increasing degree of crosslinking were prepared and tested for their SRNF performance in heptane, chloroform, and toluene. Sudan Black B (457 g mol−1) was used as the solute. Then, 99% retention was achieved in heptane, 86% in chloroform, and 75% in toluene. It was further shown that the permeance and retention can be fine‐tuned in these solvents by controlling the extent of crosslinking. This work thus introduces the crosslinking of polynorbornenes as a promising material route for SRNF. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1593–1600
Preparation and Morphologies of AB6¯ Block‐Graft Copolymers
Authors: Watanabe Momoka , Asai Yusuke , Takano Atsushi , Matsushita Yushu
Published: June 2019

Microphase‐separated structures of a series of AB6 block‐graft copolymers were studied by TEM and SAXS. Ten copolymers with the same polystyrene (S) backbone and six polyisoprene (I) grafts on the average but with different graft chain lengths were carefully synthesized by living anionic polymerization, covering the range 0.21 ≤ ϕS ≤ 0.90, where ϕS denotes polystyrene compositions. From TEM observation of the AB6 block‐graft copolymers, it turns out to be clear that they show four microphase‐separated structures, S‐spheres, S‐cylinders(S‐prisms), alternative lamellae, and I‐cylinders. Among them, for example, the samples with 0.54 ≤ ϕS ≤ 0.58 shows prism structures whose cross sections of the S domains are close to hexagons, not circles, due to packing frustration of grafts. Composition dependence of morphologies of the present AB6 block‐graft copolymers reveals their phase diagram is extremely asymmetric with respect to ϕS = 0.5. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 952–960
New tools for recombinant protein production in Escherichia coli: A 5‐year update
Authors: Rosano Germán L. , Morales Enrique S. , Ceccarelli Eduardo A.
Published: June 2019

The production of proteins in sufficient amounts is key for their study or use as biotherapeutic agents. Escherichia coli is the host of choice for recombinant protein production given its fast growth, easy manipulation, and cost‐effectiveness. As such, its protein production capabilities are continuously being improved. Also, the associated tools (such as plasmids and cultivation conditions) are subject of ongoing research to optimize product yield. In this work, we review the latest advances in recombinant protein production in E. coli.
Antimicrobial prescribing for urinary tract infections
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: June 2019

NICE has recently published a comprehensive set of guidelines on antimicrobial prescribing for urinary tract infections, covering lower urinary tract infection, acute prostatitis, acute pyelonephritis, recurrent infection and catheter‐associated infection. This article provides a summary of the recommendations.
Tildrakizumab for the treatment of plaque psoriasis in adults
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: June 2019

Tildrakizumab (Ilumetri) is a new biological therapy targeting interleukin (IL)‐23 for the treatment of plaque psoriasis in adults. This article discusses its place in therapy and clinical trial efficacy.
Biodegradation of chlorinated organic pesticides endosulfan and chlorpyrifos in soil extract broth using fungi
Authors: Bisht Jyoti , Harsh N.S.K. , Palni Lok Man S. , Agnihotri Vasudha , Kumar Anuj
Published: June 2019

The present study was designed to screen 20 fungi for their potential to degrade the chlorinated organic pesticides endosulfan and chlorpyrifos. Fungi were first screened for their tolerance to various concentrations of target pesticides using soil extract agar and subsequent degradation studies were performed in soil extract broth containing 25 mg/L of the individual pesticide. Pesticide degradation was evaluated using gas chromatography. Other parameters, such as pH and mycelial weight, were also determined. Based on percent growth inhibition of test fungi and subsequent analysis of EC50values, the overall results revealed that chlorpyrifos showed significantly more growth inhibition in all tested fungi compared with endosulfan.Trametes hirsutashowed complete degradation of both α‐ and β‐endosulfan isomers andCladosporium cladosporioidesdisplayed maximum degradation of chlorpyrifos. All test fungi degraded endosulfan more efficiently than chlorpyrifos, exceptPhanerochaete chrysosporium, Trichoderma harzianum, andTrichoderma virenswhich showed higher degradation of chlorpyrifos than endosulfan. It was also found that all tested fungi degraded α‐endosulfan more efficiently than β‐endosulfan. Endosulfan sulfate was found to be the major degradation product with all tested fungi. Fungi which showed more endosulfan degradation also produced more endosulfan sulfate. However, less endosulfan sulfate was detected withT. hirsutaandTrametes versicolor, although they degraded endosulfan more efficiently.
A research note on the assessment of optimum conditions for preparing soils for bioremediation feasibility testing
Authors: Guerin Turlough
Published: June 2019

In this applied study, the effects of short‐term storage at 22°C, 6°C, and −25°C on the numbers of microorganisms enumerated were examined with soils collected from a petrochemical contaminated soil containing multiple contaminants including phenol, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and petroleum hydrocarbons. Short term storage of soils at refrigerator temperature did not significantly change the number of microorganisms compared to those in the fresh soil (0 days of storage); however, at −25°C there was a slight decrease in the phenol utilizers and total viable count (TVC). Long‐term storage caused a significant decrease in the number of phenol utilizers in the petrochemical‐contaminated soil samples. Chemical dispersing agents were used in an attempt to increase the extraction of microorganisms from naphthalene contaminated soil which were predominantly clay soils. These did not significantly change the enumeration of naphthalene utilizers or TVC. While these results are not unexpected from current research and knowledge of microbial community succession in laboratory environments, the results from the applied nature of this study confirm that it is best practice to keep soil samples designated for bacterial enumeration for the shortest possible time, and not longer than 1–2 weeks, and at refrigerated temperature (6°C) in preference to room (22°C) or deep freezer (−18°C) temperatures.
The in situ treatment of synthetic musk fragrances in groundwater
Authors: McGregor Rick , Carey Grant
Published: June 2019

Synthetic musk fragrances (SMFs) have been shown to be micropollutants in various aquatic and groundwater systems, often occurring at microgram per liter concentrations. Studies have shown that the most commonly detected SMFs in water are nitro musks and polycyclic musks. The SMFs are typically introduced into the environment in continuous streams such as from wastewater and land application of wastewater or sludge generated during wastewater treatment. Various studies for the treatment of SMFs have been undertaken for wastewater but studies for the treatment of SMFs in groundwater are limited, especially for in situ treatment. A pilot‐scale test was conducted to determine if the use of colloidal activated carbon (CAC) could effectively reduce dissolved concentrations of nitro and polycyclic synthetic musk compounds including musk xylene, musk ketone, galaxolide, and tonalide. The pilot test was carried out downgradient of a septic system in Central Canada where a series of nitrification and denitrification reactions are occurring in an unconfined aquifer. A 10‐weight percent CAC solution was injected into a series of temporary direct push injection points to target the synthetic musk plume. The plume contained galaxolide and tonalide concentrations up to 687 and 187 nanograms per liter (ng/L), respectively, while the concentrations of musk ketone and musk xylene were below the method detection limit (20 ng/L). A total of 13,950 liters of CAC solution was injected during one injection event. The pilot test results indicated that the CAC was effectively delivered to the target injection zone resulting in an increase in total organic carbon concentrations within the saturated soil greater than two orders of magnitude compared to the background concentrations. Analyses of the groundwater chemistry before and post‐injection indicated that the CAC had no detrimental impact on the groundwater quality while reducing the concentration of dissolved galaxolide and tonalide within the plume to below the method detection limits within 51 days of injection with the exception of two of the 14 wells monitored which had galaxolide and tonalide concentrations up to 78 and 35 ng/L. Within 6 months of application, the concentrations of galaxolide and tonalide had decreased to below the method detection limits. Subsequent monitoring of the groundwater quality over a one‐year period failed to detect galaxolide and tonalide, suggesting that the CAC was effective in attenuating the galaxolide and tonalide.
Appeals to Social Norms and Taxpayer Compliance
Authors: Alm James , Schulze William D. , von Bose Carrie , Yan Jubo
Published: June 2019

We use laboratory experiments to examine the impact of appeals to social norms on the compliance decisions of individuals. We test the effects of two main types of social norms: “descriptive norms,” or the type of behavior that is typical or most frequently enacted, and “injunctive norms,” or the type of behavior that “constitutes morally approved and disapproved conduct”. In addition, for injunctive norms, we introduce approval‐framed and disapproval‐framed injunctive norm messages. Our results indicate that normative appeals generally have a modest and positive impact on tax compliance, if not always statistically significant. The magnitude of both approval‐ and disapproval‐framed injunctive norm messages is an increase of around 2% in reported taxes.
Emerging pollutants in water environment: Occurrence, monitoring, fate, and risk assessment
Authors: Tang Yankui , Yin Maozhong , Yang Weiwei , Li Huilan , Zhong Yaxuan , Mo Lihong , Liang Yan , Ma Xiangmeng , Sun Xiang
Published: June 2019

The occurrence of emerging pollutants (EPs) is continuously reported worldwide. Nevertheless, only few of these compounds are toxicologically evaluated due to their vast numbers. Reliable analytical methods and toxicity assessment methods are the basis of either the management or the elimination of EPs. In this paper, literature published in 2018 on EPs were reviewed with special regard to their occurrence, detection methods, fate in the environment, and ecological toxicity assessment. Particular focus was placed on practical considerations, novel processes, and new solution strategies.

Practitioner points

Literature published in 2018 on emerging pollutants were reviewed.

This review article is with special regard to the occurrence, detection methods, fate and toxicity assessment of emerging pollutants.

Particular focus was placed on practical considerations, novel processes and new solution strategies.
Preoperative Predictors Including the Role of Inflammatory Indices in Predicting Early Recurrence After Re‐resection for Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Guo Yuxin , Chua Darren W. , Koh Ye‐Xin , Lee Ser‐Yee , Cheow Peng‐Chung , Kam Juinn‐Huar , Teo Jin‐Yao , Chow Pierce K. , Chung Alexander Y. , Ooi London L. , Chan Chung‐Yip , Goh Brian K. P.
Published: June 2019

Background

Repeat liver resection (RLR) for recurrent HCC (rHCC) is a widely accepted treatment modality. However, early recurrence rate is high, frequently resulting in futile resection. We performed this study to evaluate preoperative factors, including the value of inflammatory indices, in predicting early (<1 year) recurrence in patients who underwent RLR for rHCC. This may help clinicians better select patients for RLR, while excluding cases in which RLR for rHCC would likely be futile.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of 80 patients where 90 operative cases of RLR and 84 cases of early recurrence (<1 year) post‐RLR were evaluated. Preoperative predictors of early recurrence and overall survival (OS) were assessed.

Results

There were 31 (34.4%) early recurrences with a 5‐year OS of 38.9%. Elevated platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) >103.6 was a significant independent preoperative predictor of both early recurrence, relative risk (RR) 4.284 (P = 0.001) and OS, RR 2.139 (P = 0.027), while alphafetoprotein (AFP) ≥ 200 was a significant independent preoperative predictor of early recurrence only, RR 11.655 (P = 0.030). Patients were followed‐up at a median of 14.3 months with 54.8% developing intrahepatic recurrences and 19.4% developing extrahepatic recurrences.

Conclusion

Both, elevated PLR and AFP ≥ 200 were independent predictors of early (<1 year) recurrence after RLR for rHCC, while only an elevated PLR was an independent preoperative prognosticators of overall survival. Indication for RLR should be carefully discussed in patients with relapsed HCC with an elevated PLR, due to the potential of early recurrence and poor overall survival.