bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of dehiscence‐type defects with collagen matrix and/or enamel matrix derivative: Histomorphometric study in minipigs
Authors: França‐Grohmann Isabela Lima , Sangiorgio João Paulo Menck , Bueno Manuela Rocha , Casarin Renato Corrêa Viana , Silvério Ruiz Karina Gonzáles , Nociti Francisco Humberto , Casati Márcio Zaffalon , Sallum Enilson Antonio
Published: December 2019

Background

This study aimed to evaluate, histomorphometrically, the use of collagen matrix (CM) and/or enamel matrix derivative (EMD) for the treatment of dehiscence‐type recession defects in minipigs.

Methods

Eight healthy, male, young BR‐1 minipigs, with no periodontal disease were treated. Bilateral dehiscence‐type defects were surgically created on the buccal of the mandibular premolars (PI and PII). After 30 days, the defects were randomly assigned to four groups: coronally advanced flap (CAF); CAF + CM; CAF + EMD; and CAF + CM + EMD (split‐mouth design). The evaluated parameters (mm): total defect length; new cementum (NC); new bone (NB); gingival margin position; total epithelium length; epithelium on the root; connective tissue adaptation; and soft tissue thickness (STT).

Results

The EMD‐treated groups showed a superior length of NC [4.13 ± 1.22 (CAF + EMD); 3.95 ± 1.11 (CAF + CM + EMD); 2.94 ± 0.77 (CAF + CM); 2.72 ± 0.81 (CAF), P = 0.02] and NB [3.21 ± 0.68 (CAF + CM + EMD); 3.01 ± 0.56 (CAF + EMD); 2.15 ± 0.47 (CAF + CM); 2.29 ± 0.82 (CAF), P = 0.005]. The CAF and CAF + CM groups showed a superior epithelial length when compared to EMD‐treated groups after 3 months. A superior STT was observed for CAF + CM + EMD group (1.5 ± 0.33) when compared with the other groups [1.09 ± 0.26 (CAF + EMD); 1.04 ± 0.34 (CAF + CM); and 1.14 ± 0.29 (CAF), P = 0.03].

Conclusion(s)

The results of the present study indicate that EMD application, irrespective of the combination with CM, may improve the periodontal regeneration of dehiscence‐type defects in this animal model.
A novel multi‐locus genetic risk score identifies patients with higher risk of generalized aggressive periodontitis
Authors: Li Wenjing , Wang Xian'e , Tian Yu , Xu Li , Zhang Li , Shi Dong , Feng Xianghui , Lu Ruifang , Meng Huanxin
Published: December 2019

Background

Each genetic variant individually explains only a tiny proportion of the genetic variation with insignificant predictive power. The tool of multi‐locus genetic risk score (GRS), which aggregates information from multiple genetic variants, has been widely used in many complex diseases but not yet applied to generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAgP).

Methods

A total of 335 GAgP patients and 114 healthy controls were enrolled in the case‐control study. The unweighted GRS (uGRS) and weighted GRS (wGRS) were calculated based on significant variants. Logistic regression models were conducted for the GRS‐based association analyses on the risk of GAgP. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to compare the discriminatory ability of predictors of GAgP risk.

Results

Four loci were found to be significantly associated with GAgP. They were matrix metalloproteinase 8 rs11225395 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.91), epidermal growth factor rs2237051 (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.93), PPAR‐a rs4253623 (OR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.03 to 2.26), and apolipoprotein E rs429358 (OR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.08 to 2.97). Each additional point of the uGRS/wGRS was associated with a 50%/31% increased risk of developing GAgP (OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.21 to 1.85 or OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.14 to 1.51, respectively) after adjusting for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI). Participants in the high group of uGRS/wGRS (OR = 2.87, 95% CI: 1.59 to 5.17 or OR = 2.67, 95% CI: 1.46 to 4.88, respectively) and the middle group of uGRS/wGRS (OR = 2.21, 95% CI: 1.29 to 3.78 or OR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.09 to 3.08, respectively) had an increased risk of GAgP compared with those in the low group of score after adjustment for age, sex, and BMI. The addition of GRS to a model of conventional risk factors improved discrimination by 4.5% (from 0.695 to 0.740, P = 0.048).

Conclusions

We demonstrated that the multi‐locus GRS based on four significant single nucleotide polymorphisms might be useful to assess genetic predisposition to GAgP. The GRS in combination with conventional risk factors significantly improved the power of identifying subgroups of Chinese population with a particularly high risk for GAgP.
Gun Violence Exposure and Posttraumatic Symptoms Among Children and Youth
Authors: Turner Heather A. , Mitchell Kimberly J. , Jones Lisa M. , Hamby Sherry , Wade Roy , Beseler Cheryl L.
Published: December 2019

Although statistics on youth homicide and injury from gun violence are available, little research has focused on how gun violence overlaps with other victimizations or on the psychological impact of gun violence on children. Pilot survey data were collected on the experiences of 630 U.S. children (age range: 2–17 years) from Boston, Philadelphia, and rural areas of eastern Tennessee. Youth aged 10–17 years completed a self‐report survey on a wide range of gun violence exposures, and parents of younger children (aged 2–9 years) completed the survey as a proxy for that child. Direct gun violence exposure, witnessing gun violence, and hearing gunshots were all significantly associated with other forms of victimization, rs = .10–.38, p < .001. The findings suggest that youth who experience direct gun violence are often exposed to multiple violent contexts. For older youth (ages 10–17 years) polyvictimization was most strongly associated with posttraumatic symptoms, β = .35, p < .001, although witnessing gun violence still uniquely predicted a higher level of symptoms, β = .18, p < .01. For younger children (ages 2–9 years), hearing and witnessing gun violence were both related to posttraumatic symptoms, β = .15, p < .01 for both, even after controlling for polyvictimization. Mental health professionals and trauma‐informed services should be mindful that the traumatic impact of gun violence for children may not necessarily be attached to direct victimization experiences but may also result from simply seeing or hearing it in their neighborhoods.
Land cover change, landscape degradation, and restoration along a railway line in the Amazon biome, Brazil
Authors: Santos Diogo Corrêa , Souza‐Filho Pedro Walfir Martins , da Rocha Nascimento Wilson , Cardoso Gustavo Freitas , dos Santos Jorge Filipe
Published: December 2019

Railways are known to have less influence on land use than other transportation systems. However, railways also affect biodiversity, water resources, socioeconomic outcomes, and land prices. In the context of changes in land cover and land use (LCLU) classes, this study analyses the changes arising from the establishment of the Carajás Mining Project in 1984 along the more than 900‐km length of the Carajás Railway (CRW) in southeastern Amazonia. LANDSAT‐5 (1984) and LANDSAT‐8 (2014) satellite images and human settlement layers (1990 and 2015) along CRW were used to assess LCLU changes. Satellite images were analysed with the geographic object‐based image analysis method to detect changes in LCLU classes, including municipalities located less than 50 km from the CRW. The results showed that in 1984, the areas of influence of the CRW consisted of 69% forest cover, 24% nonforest cover, 3% water, and 2% cloud cover. In 2014, forest area dropped significantly to 43%, whereas the nonforest class expanded to 46%. This analysis revealed that the conversion of forests to pastures represents the major landscape degradation that occupy 51% of the study site mainly in rural human settlement areas, which are interlinked with the construction of the CRW. Only 6% of the total area exhibits a trend of restoration marked by secondary vegetation growing. The land occupation model along the CRW is characterized by rural settlements, associated with roads and extensive pasturelands. Construction of this railway in a certain way prevented the fishbone occupation type as observed in the western Amazon.
Spatio‐temporal changes in the understory heterogeneity, diversity, and composition after fires of different severities in a semiarid oak (Quercus brantii Lindl.) forest
Authors: Heydari Mehdi , Moradizadeh Hadieh , Omidipour Reza , Mezbani Arash , Pothier David
Published: December 2019

In arid and semiarid forests and rangelands, native ranchers and farmers frequently use fire as a tool to improve soil fertility and vegetation composition, and to facilitate soil tilling. Investigating changes in ecosystem characteristics after these measures is of great importance for establishing management and recovery strategies. This study aimed to investigate spatial–temporal changes in the understory heterogeneity, diversity and composition after fires of different severities in a Brant's oak (Quercus brantii Lindl.) forest. Vegetation sampling was monitored in 14 patches including unburned sites (UBN), burned sites with low fire severity after 1, 5, and 10 years (LFSO, LFSF, and LFST, respectively), and burned sites with high fire severity after 1, 5, and 10 years (HFSO, HFSF, and HFST, respectively). Fire severity and time since fire significantly affected diversity indices with the lowest values of richness, evenness and diversity in high‐severity fires, while the highest values were observed in low‐severity fires. Time since fire did not significantly affect the understory evenness in both fire severities. However, species diversity and richness in low‐severity fires decreased with time since fire while the reverse was observed in high‐severity fires. The results of a detrended correspondence analysis indicated that the severity and time since fire significantly changed vegetation composition. The largest changes in vegetation composition compared to control sites were observed in HFSO, and then in HFSF and HFST. Both fire severity and time since fire caused changes in the heterogeneity of plant communities. We concluded that the use of low‐severity fires can be suitable for maintaining and increasing the heterogeneity of understory vegetation in semiarid forest ecosystems. However, low‐severity fires have also slightly, while not significantly, increased evenness and can therefore potentially reduce the ecosystem functions of dominant species in such semiarid regions. This could mitigate the positive effect of fire on vegetation heterogeneity and necessitate further investigations.
Corrosion of Mg alloys EV31A, WE43B, and ZE41A in chloride‐ and sulfate‐containing solutions saturated with magnesium hydroxide
Authors: Soltan Akif , Dargusch Matthew S. , Shi Zhiming , Gerrard Darren , Al Shabibi Sulaiman , Kuo Yu‐Chieh , Atrens Andrej
Published: December 2019

This study studied corrosion in 0.1 M Na2SO4, 0.1 M NaCl, and 0.6 M NaCl, all saturated with Mg(OH)2, using weight loss, hydrogen evolution, and electrochemical measurements. Corrosion was similar in all cases. Nevertheless, the corrosion rates were alloy‐dependent, were somewhat lower in 0.1 M Na2SO4 than in 0.1 M NaCl, and increased with NaCl concentration. The corrosion damage morphology was similar for all solutions; the extent correlated with the corrosion rate. The corrosion rates evaluated by the electrochemical methods were lower than those evaluated from hydrogen evolution, consistent with the Mg corrosion mechanism involving the unipositive Mg+ ion.
Targeted regions sequencing identified four novel PNPLA1 mutations in two Chinese families with autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis
Authors: Li Liangshan , Liu Wenmiao , Xu Yinglei , Li Miaomiao , Tang Qian , Yu Bo , Cai Renmei , Liu Shiguo
Published: December 2019

Background

Autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI) is a rare genetically heterogeneous cutaneous disease predominantly characterized by erythroderma, generalized abnormal scaling of the whole body and a collodion membrane at birth. Numerous causative genes have been demonstrated to be responsible for ARCI including PNPLA1 which can cause ARCI type 10. The objectives of this study are to describe clinical features of three ARCI patients from two Chinese unrelated families and to identify the underlying causative mutations.

Methods

Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral venous blood obtained from the two Chinese ARCI families in Shandong province. Subsequently, targeted regions sequencing (TRS) followed by Sanger sequencing was conducted to identify and validate the likely pathogenic mutations of the ARCI families.

Results

Genetic analyses revealed four novel PNPLA1 variants that are predicted to be probably to lead to ARCI in three patients of two families. Patient 1 in one family was in compound heterozygous status for c.604delC/p.Arg202Glyfs*27 and c.820dupC/p.Arg274Profs*15, whereas c.738_742delinsCCCACAGATCCTGC/ p.Gly247_Tyr248delinsProGlnIleLeuHis, and c.816dupC/p.Arg274Profs*15 were found in patient 2 and 3 of the other family. In addition, these variants cosegregate in the two pedigrees and are all within highly conserved regions of the PNPLA1 protein, which indicate that the four mutations are likely pathogenic.

Conclusion

Our findings not only broaden the mutational spectrum of PNPLA1, but also contribute to establishing genotype–phenotype correlations for different forms of ARCI.
Solution of nonlinear differential equation and special functions
Authors: Singh Jagdev , Kumar Devendra , Kumar Bansal Manish
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we find the approximate solution of a nonlinear differential equations pertaining to M‐series,
‐function, and I‐function of two variables by making use of the Hermite, Legendre, and Jacobi polynomials. The nonlinear differential equations play a key role in distinct branches of engineering and physics and many vibration problems. The results obtained in the present study are general in nature and can be used to obtain the solution of various problems of physics and engineering.
The Galerkin spectral element method for the solution of two‐dimensional multiterm time fractional diffusion‐wave equation
Authors: Saffarian Marziyeh , Mohebbi Akbar
Published: December 2019

The aim of this work is to propose an efficient numerical method for the solution of two‐dimensional multiterm time fractional diffusion‐wave equation. The Caputo time fractional derivatives of equation are approximated by a scheme of order
, 1<α<2. To obtain a full‐discrete scheme, we apply the Legendre spectral element method on the spatial direction. Unconditional stability of the semidiscrete scheme and error estimate of full‐discrete method is presented. Numerical experiments are carried out to demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed method and to compare the results with the numerical solutions of other schemes in the literature. The results show that the present method is accurate and efficient. It is illustrated that the numerical results are in good agreement with theoretical ones.
Effect of Clostridium butyricum against Microglia‐Mediated Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's Disease via Regulating Gut Microbiota and Metabolites Butyrate
Authors: Sun Jing , Xu Jingxuan , Yang Bo , Chen Keyang , Kong Yu , Fang Na , Gong Tianyu , Wang Fangyan , Ling Zongxin , Liu Jiaming
Published: December 2019

Scope

Recent evidences demonstrate that abnormal gut microbiota (GM) might be involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the role of probiotics in preventing AD by regulating GM–gut–brain axis remains unclear. Here, the anti‐neuroinflammatory effect and its mechanism of probiotic Clostridium butyricum (CB) against AD is investigated by regulating GM–gut–brain axis.

Methods and results

APPswe/PS1dE9 (APP/PS1) transgenic are treated intragastrically with CB for 4 weeks then cognitively tested. Amyloid‐β (Aβ) burden, microglial activation, proinflammatory cytokines production, GM, and metabolites butyrate are analyzed. Moreover, Aβ‐induced BV2 microglia are pretreated with butyrate, and the levels of cluster of differentiation 11b (CD11b), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), and NF‐κB p65 phosphorylation are determined. The results show that CB treatment prevents cognitive impairment, Aβ deposits, microglia activation, and production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and interleukin (IL)‐1β in the brain of APP/PS1 mice. Meanwhile, abnormal GM and butyrate are reversed after CB treatment. Notably, butyrate treatment reduces the levels of CD11b and COX‐2, and suppresses phosphorylation of NF‐κB p65 in the Aβ‐induced BV2 microglia.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that CB treatment could attenuate microglia‐mediated neuroinflammation via regulating the GM–gut–brain axis, which is mediated by the metabolite butyrate.
Ionic Liquid Based Polymer Gel Electrolytes for Use with Germanium Thin Film Anodes in Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: McGrath Louise M. , Jones John , Carey Edwin , Rohan James F.
Published: December 2019

Thermally stable, flexible polymer gel electrolytes with high ionic conductivity are prepared by mixing the ionic liquid 1‐butyl‐1‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (C4mpyrTFSI), LiTFSI and poly(vinylidene difluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene (PVDF‐HFP). FT‐IR and Raman spectroscopy show that an amorphous film is obtained for high (60 %) C4mpyrTFSI contents. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) confirms that the polymer gels are stable below ∼300 °C in both nitrogen and air environments. Ionic conductivity of 1.9×10−3 S cm−2 at room temperature is achieved for the 60 % ionic liquid loaded gel. Germanium (Ge) anodes maintain a coulombic efficiency above 95 % after 90 cycles in potential cycling tests with the 60 % C4mpyrTFSI polymer gel.
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of saponins in the flower bud of Panax ginseng (Ginseng Flos) by UFLC‐Triple TOF‐MS/MS and UFLC‐QTRAP‐MS/MS
Authors: Shi Jingjing , Cai Zhichen , Chen Shuyu , Zou Lisi , Liu Xunhong , Tang Renmao , Ma Jimei , Wang Chengcheng , Chen Jiali , Tan Mengxia
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Ginseng Flos (GF), the flower bud of Panax ginseng, is a worthy functional food with medicinal potential. A few studies have focused on the comprehensive and systematic analysis of its major bioactive constituents.

Objective

The aims are to develop the methods of ultra‐fast liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole‐time of flight tandem mass spectrometry (UFLC‐Triple TOF‐MS/MS) and ultra‐fast liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole‐linear ion trap tandem mass spectrometry (UFLC‐QTRAP‐MS/MS) for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the saponins in GF.

Methodology

UFLC‐Triple TOF‐MS/MS and UFLC‐QTRAP‐MS/MS were established for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the saponins in GF, separately.

Results

Fifty‐one saponins were identified in GF using UFLC‐Triple TOF‐MS/MS method; among them, 21 saponins were characterized by comparing with standards. Furthermore, 12 ginsenosides (ginsenoside Re, Rg1, Rf, 20(S)‐Rg2, 20(R)‐Rg2, Rb1, Rc, Ro, Rb2, F1, Rd, and F2) were synchronously determined by UFLC‐QTRAP‐MS/MS method after the extraction with 70% methanol. This UFLC‐QTRAP‐MS/MS method showed good linearity (r >0.9991), the interday and intraday precision, repeatability and stability were all satisfied, the average recoveries of standard addition for the compounds were between 94.01% and 105.16%, and the relative standard deviations were less than 5%.

Conclusion

The results are available for the comprehensive quality control and assessment of GF and its relative products.
Consumer understanding of the scope of FDA's prescription drug regulatory oversight: A nationally representative survey
Authors: Sullivan Helen W. , Aikin Kathryn J. , David Kathleen T. , Berktold Jennifer , Stein Karen L. , Hoverman Victoria J.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Misperceptions of how the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates prescription drugs may affect how consumers assess the safety and efficacy of prescription drugs. The study objective was to survey the public on their knowledge of FDA oversight regarding prescription drug approval and advertising.

Methods

In 2017, we conducted a nationally representative mail‐push‐to‐web survey with 1,744 US adults.

Results

Although most respondents (86%) knew that FDA approves prescription drugs, we found misperceptions about what that approval means. In addition, few respondents understood FDA oversight of prescription drug advertising, with approximately half of respondents reporting that they did not know whether FDA approved these ads or components of the ads, and several mis‐reporting that FDA approves these ads (31%) or components of the ads (22%‐41%).

Conclusions

Enhanced collaboration and communication with the public by key stakeholders in this space could increase public understanding of the roles and responsibilities of FDA.
Attitudes and perceptions of people with a learning disability, family carers, and paid care workers towards cancer screening programmes in the United Kingdom: A qualitative systematic review and meta‐aggregation
Authors: Byrnes Kate , Hamilton Sharon , McGeechan Grant J. , O'Malley Claire , Mankelow Jagjit , Giles Emma L.
Published: December 2019

Objective

Evidence suggests that people with a learning disability (PwLD) are less likely to attend cancer screening than the general population in the United Kingdom. The aim of this systematic review was to identify and synthesise qualitative studies reporting the attitudes and opinions of PwLD, family carers, and paid care workers towards national cancer screening programmes.

Methods

Five electronic and two grey literature databases were searched. Fourteen thousand eight hundred forty‐six papers were reviewed against predetermined inclusion criteria. Included papers were critically appraised. Findings were synthesised using meta‐aggregation.

Results

Eleven papers met the inclusion criteria, all related to cervical and breast screening. No papers were related to colorectal cancer screening. Findings were clustered into four synthesised findings: (1) supporting women with a learning disability (WwLD) to attend screening, (2) WwLD's awareness of screening and their psychophysical experiences, 3) professional practice barriers including the need for multidisciplinary working and an understanding of the needs of WwLD, and (4) approaches to improve the uptake of cervical and breast cancer screening. The synthesis highlights the significance of WwLD having support to understand the importance of screening to be able to make an informed choice about attending.

Conclusions

WwLD may not attend cancer screening due to fear, concerns over pain, and the potential influence of family carers and paid care workers. The review identified practical mechanisms which could help WwLD attend screening. Future research should focus on identifying potential barriers and facilitators as a proactive measure to promote colorectal cancer screening.
The relationship between post‐traumatic stress and post‐traumatic growth in cancer patients and survivors: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Marziliano Allison , Tuman Malwina , Moyer Anne
Published: December 2019

Objective

Research on the relationship between post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)/post‐traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and post‐traumatic growth (PTG) in cancer patients and survivors is increasing.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of 51 studies that assessed the relationship between PTSD/PTSS and PTG, in cancer patients/survivors. Five databases were searched through 29 April 2019. The purpose of this manuscript is to report a summary of this literature, the aggregate effect size of the relationship between PTSD and PTG, and the examination of potential moderators that may impact the relationship between PTSD and PTG.

Results

The aggregate weighted effect size for the association between PTSD/PTSS and PTG was small, r = .08, but significantly different from zero. We examined whether time since diagnosis, stage of cancer, type of measure used to assess PTSD/PTSS, or type of measure used to assess PTG explained the significant heterogeneity among the individual effect sizes. The relationship was significantly stronger for the small subset of studies that included only stage 4 patients compared with those that included only non–stage 4 patients. Additionally, the strongest relationship was for those studies that used the Impact of Events Scale‐Revised to assess PTSD.

Conclusions

The relationship between PTSD/PTSD and PTG is modestly positive and robust. There is evidence that the threat of advanced cancer is more strongly associated with growth, but none supporting that more time since cancer diagnosis allows survivors the opportunity to positively reinterpret and find meaning in the traumatic aspects of the disease resulting in more growth.
Lung deposition of nebulized surfactant in newborn piglets: Nasal CPAP vs Nasal IPPV
Authors: Nord Anders , Linner Rikard , Salomone Fabrizio , Bianco Federico , Ricci Francesca , Murgia Xabi , Schlun Martin , Cunha‐Goncalves Doris , Perez‐de‐Sa Valeria
Published: December 2019

Background

Nasal continuous positive airway pressure support (nCPAP) is the standard of care for prematurely born infants at risk of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (nRDS). However, nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) may be an alternative to nCPAP in babies requiring surfactant, and in conjunction with surfactant nebulization, it could theoretically reduce the need for invasive mechanical ventilation. We compared lung deposition of nebulized poractant in newborn piglets supported by nCPAP or NIPPV.

Methods

Twenty‐five sedated newborn piglets (1.2‐2.2 kg) received either nCPAP (3 cmH2O, n = 12) or NIPPV (3 cmH2O positive end expiratory pressure+3 cmH2O inspiratory pressure, n = 13) via custom‐made nasal prongs (FiO2 0.4, Servo‐i ventilator). Piglets received 200 mg kg−1 of technetium‐99m‐surfactant mixture continuously nebulized with a customized eFlow‐Neos investigational vibrating‐membrane nebulizer system. Blood gases were taken immediately before, during, and after nebulization. The deposition was estimated by gamma scintigraphy.

Results

Mean surfactant deposition in the lungs was 15.9 ± 11.9% [8.3, 23.5] (mean ± SD [95% CI]) in the nCPAP group and 21.6 ± 10% [15.6, 27.6] in the NIPPV group (P = .20). Respiratory rates were similar in both groups. Minute volume was 489 ± 203 [360, 617] in the nCPAP group and 780 ± 239 [636, 924] mL kg−1 min−1 in the NIPPV group (P = .009). Blood gases were comparable in both groups.

Conclusion

Irrespective of the noninvasive ventilatory support mode used, relatively high lung deposition rates of surfactant were achieved with nebulization. The amounts of deposited surfactant might suffice to elicit a pulmonary function improvement in the context of nRDS.
Glutaminyl‐tRNA Synthetase from Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Characterization, structure, and development as a screening platform
Authors: Escamilla Yaritza , Hughes Casey A. , Abendroth Jan , Dranow David M. , Balboa Samantha , Dean Frank B. , Bullard James M.
Published: December 2019

Pseudomonas aeruginosa has a high potential for developing resistance to multiple antibiotics. The gene (glnS) encoding glutaminyl‐tRNA synthetase (GlnRS) from P. aeruginosa was cloned and the resulting protein characterized. GlnRS was kinetically evaluated and the KM and kcatobs, governing interactions with tRNA, were 1.0 μM and 0.15 s−1, respectively. The crystal structure of the α2 form of P. aeruginosa GlnRS was solved to 1.9 Å resolution. The amino acid sequence and structure of P. aeruginosa GlnRS were analyzed and compared to that of GlnRS from Escherichia coli. Amino acids that interact with ATP, glutamine, and tRNA are well conserved and structure overlays indicate that both GlnRS proteins conform to a similar three‐dimensional structure. GlnRS was developed into a screening platform using scintillation proximity assay technology and used to screen ~2,000 chemical compounds. Three inhibitory compounds were identified and analyzed for enzymatic inhibition as well as minimum inhibitory concentrations against clinically relevant bacterial strains. Two of the compounds, BM02E04 and BM04H03, were selected for further studies. These compounds displayed broad‐spectrum antibacterial activity and exhibited moderate inhibitory activity against mutant efflux deficient strains of P. aeruginosa and E. coli. Growth of wild‐type strains was unaffected, indicating that efflux was likely responsible for the lack of sensitivity. The global mode of action was determined using time‐kill kinetics. BM04H03 did not inhibit the growth of human cell cultures at any concentration and BM02E04 only inhibit cultures at the highest concentration tested (400 μg/ml). In conclusion, GlnRS from P. aeruginosa is shown to have a structure similar to that of E. coli GlnRS and two natural product compounds were identified as inhibitors of P. aeruginosa GlnRS with the potential for utility as lead candidates in antibacterial drug development in a time of increased antibiotic resistance.
Context and number of noncanonical repeat variable diresidues impede the design of TALE proteins with improved DNA targeting
Authors: Anderson James T. , Rogers Julia M. , Barrera Luis A. , Bulyk Martha L.
Published: December 2019

Transcription activator‐like effector (TALE) proteins have been used extensively for targeted binding of fusion proteins to loci of interest in (epi)genome engineering. Such approaches typically utilize four canonical TALE repeat variable diresidue (RVD) types, corresponding to the identities of two key amino acids, to target each nucleotide. Alternate RVDs with improved specificity are desired. Here, we focused on seven noncanonical RVDs that have been suggested to have improved specificity for their target nucleotides. We used custom protein binding microarrays to characterize the DNA‐binding activity of 65 TALEs containing these alternate or corresponding canonical RVDs at multiple positions to ~5,000 unique DNA sequences per protein. We found that none of the noncanonical thymine‐targeting RVDs displayed stronger preference for thymine than did the canonical RVD. Of the noncanonical RVDs with putatively improved specificity for guanine, only EN and NH showed greater discrimination of guanine over adenine. This improved specificity, however, comes at a cost: more substitutions of a noncanonical RVD for a canonical RVD generally decreased the protein's DNA‐binding activity. Our results highlight the need to investigate RVD‐nucleotide specificities in multiple protein contexts and suggest that a balance between canonical and noncanonical RVDs is needed to build TALEs with improved specificity.
Microwave Synthesis of Zinc Ammonium Phosphate/Reduced Graphene Oxide Hybrid Composite for High Energy Density Supercapacitors
Authors: Arul Raja Thomai , Vickraman Palanisamy , Simon Justin Amalorpavam , Joji Reddy Boyapati
Published: December 2019

Herein, zinc ammonium phosphate (ZAP) is interluded with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as a composite (ZAPG2) via microwave synthesis route. The ZAPG2 is investigated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and electrochemical studies (cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge discharge, and impedance). The Raman analysis confirms the graphitization of rGO in the ZAP, and XPS confirms the elemental composition. The SEM morphology reveals that rGO spreads over the micropyramidal envelope of ZAP. The ZAPG2//rGO device delivers a higher specific capacitance of 356 F g−1 for 5 m than in 3 m H2SO4 (133.7 F g−1) electrolyte at a current density of 1 A g−1 within the potential window of 1.8 V. The cyclic stability of 86.1% for 3 m and 66.6% for 5 m are noted for 5000 charge–discharge cycles. ZAPG2//rGO combination is the first attempt at facilitating better specific capacitances on device performance. This parallels in energy density, as 59.9 W h kg−1 in 3 m and 153.4 W h kg−1 in 5 m driving for the same power density of 448.3 W kg−1 at 1 A g−1, which suggests the hybrid composite device's practicality for high‐energy supercapacitor applications.
Formation and Tuning of 2D Electron Gas in Perovskite Heterostructures
Authors: Maznichenko Igor V. , Ostanin Sergey , Ernst Arthur , Henk Juergen , Mertig Ingrid
Published: December 2019

Oxide interfaces provide very intriguing phenomena, in particular a 2D electron gas (2DEG) emerging between robustly insulating perovskites. The 2DEG was detected in 2004 beneath polar LaAlO3 (LAO) epitaxially grown on TiO2‐terminated SrTiO3 (001) (STO). Herein, recent first‐principles studies of 2DEGs are reviewed. Using a Green function method, the family of the polar/nonpolar (001) interfaces: LAO/STO, LaFeO3/STO, and STO/KTaO3 is computed. In the context of 2DEG, one of two insulating perovskites, at least, must be polar. The effect of a polar/polar interface is modeled for LAO/KTaO3(001) and also for the (110) and (111) interfaces of LAO/STO. Starting from the defectless superlattice with its two differently terminated interfaces, we demonstrate that the 2DEG and 2D hole gas appear there, respectively, due to the presence of excessive electrons or holes. 2DEG is evaluated by its layer‐resolved density profile along [001], as well as the Fermi surface cross sections and effective masses, which are directly related to the transport properties. The effects of intermixed cations, their vacancies, and oxygen vacancies at each interface of LAO/STO are calculated. Finally, we show how to tune reversibly the 2DEG by changing the electronic balance at the LAO surface that mimics the effect of ionic liquid gating.
Diosmetin exhibits anti‐proliferative and anti‐inflammatory effects on TNF‐α‐stimulated human rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast‐like synoviocytes through regulating the Akt and NF‐κB signaling pathways
Authors: Chen You , Wang Yongsheng , Liu Min , Zhou Bingkang , Yang Guangjie
Published: December 2019

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by inflammation and proliferation of synovial tissues. Diosmetin is a bioflavonoid possessing an anti‐inflammatory property. Herein, we aimed to study the effects of diosmetin on the inflammation and proliferation of RA fibroblast‐like synoviocytes MH7A cells. MH7A cell proliferation was measured using cell counting kit‐8 assay. Cell apoptosis was examined using flow cytometry. The production of inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, and matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (MMP‐1) was measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results showed that diosmetin inhibited tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α)‐induced proliferation increase in MH7A cells in a dose‐dependent manner. Diosmetin treatment resulted in an increase in apoptotic rates and a reduction in TNF‐α‐induced production of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, and MMP‐1 in MH7A cells. Furthermore, diosmetin inhibited TNF‐α‐induced activation of protein kinase B (Akt) and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) pathways in MH7A cells. Suppression of Akt or NF‐κB promoted apoptosis and inhibited TNF‐α‐induced proliferation increase and production of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, and MMP‐1 in MH7A cells, and diosmetin treatment enhanced these effects. Taken together, these findings suggested that diosmetin exhibited anti‐proliferative and anti‐inflammatory effects via inhibiting the Akt and NF‐κB pathways in MH7A cells.
Mass spectrometry in bioresorbable polymer development, degradation and drug‐release tracking
Authors: Rizzarelli Paola , Rapisarda Marco , Valenti Graziella
Published: December 2019

A detailed characterization of polymeric matrices and appropriate degradation monitoring techniques are required to sustain the development of new materials as well as to enlarge the applications of the old ones. In fact, polymer analysis is essential for the clarification of the intrinsic relationship between structure and properties that ascertains the industrial applications in diverse fields. In bioresorbable and biodegradable polymers, the role of analytical methods is dual since it is pointed both at the polymeric matrices and at degradation tracking. The structural architectures, the mechanical and morphological properties, and the degradation rate, are of outstanding importance for a specific application. In some cases, the complexity of the polymer structure, the processes of decomposition or the low concentration of the degradation products need the concurrent use of different complementary analytical techniques to give detailed information of the reactions taking place. Several analytical methods are used in bioresorbable polymer development and degradation tracking. Among them, mass spectrometry (MS) plays an essential role and it is used to refine polymer syntheses, for its high sensitivity, to highlight degradation mechanism by detecting compounds present in trace amounts, or to track the degradation product profile and to study drug release. In fact, elucidation of reaction mechanisms and polymer structure, attesting to the purity and detecting defects as well as residual catalysts, in biodegradable and bioresorbable polymers, requires sensitive analytical characterization methods that are essential in providing an assurance of safety, efficacy and quality. This review aims to provide an overview of the MS strategies used to support research and development of resorbable polymers as well as to investigate their degradation mechanisms. It is focused on the most significant studies concerning synthetic bioresorbable matrices (polylactide, polyglycolide and their copolymers, polyhydroxybutyrate, etc.), published in the last ten years.
Size‐Dependent Control of Exciton–Polariton Interactions in WS2 Nanotubes
Authors: Sinha Sudarson S. , Zak Alla , Rosentsveig Rita , Pinkas Iddo , Tenne Reshef , Yadgarov Lena
Published: December 2019

Multiwall WS2 nanotubes (and fullerene‐like nanoparticles thereof) are currently synthesized in large amounts, reproducibly. Other than showing interesting mechanical and tribological properties, which offer them a myriad of applications, they are recently shown to exhibit remarkable optical and electrical properties, including quasi‐1D superconductivity, electroluminescence, and a strong bulk photovoltaic effect. Here, it is shown that, using a simple dispersion‐fractionation technique, one can control the diameter of the nanotubes and move from pure excitonic to polaritonic features. While nanotubes of an average diameter >80 nm can support cavity modes and scatter light effectively via a strong coupling mechanism, the extinction of nanotubes with smaller diameter consists of pure absorption. The experimental work is complemented by finite‐difference time‐domain simulations, which shed new light on the cavity mode–exciton interaction in 2D materials. Furthermore, transient absorption experiments of the size‐fractionated nanotubes fully confirm the steady‐state observations. Moreover, it is shown that the tools developed here are useful for size control of the nanotubes, e.g., in manufacturing environment. The tunability of the light–matter interaction of such nanotubes offers them intriguing applications such as polaritonic devices, in photocatalysis, and for multispectral sensors.
0D Cs3Cu2X5 (X = I, Br, and Cl) Nanocrystals: Colloidal Syntheses and Optical Properties
Authors: Luo Zhishan , Li Qian , Zhang Liming , Wu Xiaotong , Tan Li , Zou Chao , Liu Yejing , Quan Zewei
Published: December 2019

0D lead‐free metal halide nanocrystals (NCs) are an emerging class of materials with intriguing optical properties. Herein, colloidal synthetic routes are presented for the production of 0D Cs3Cu2X5 (X = I, Br, and Cl) NCs with orthorhombic structure and well‐defined morphologies. All these Cs3Cu2X5 NCs exhibit broadband blue‐green photoluminescence (PL) emissions in the range of 445–527 nm with large Stokes shifts, which are attributed to their intrinsic self‐trapped exciton (STE) emission characteristics. The high PL quantum yield of 48.7% is obtained from Cs3Cu2Cl5 NCs, while Cs3Cu2I5 NCs exhibit considerable air stability over 45 days. Intriguingly, as X is changed from I to Br and Cl, Cs3Cu2X5 NCs exhibit a continuous redshift of emission peaks, which is contrary to the blueshift in CsPbX3 perovskite NCs.
Biocomposite Films Based on Phosphorylated Wheat Starch and Cellulose Nanocrystals from Rice, Oat, and Eucalyptus Husks
Authors: Bruni Graziella Pinheiro , de Oliveira Jean Paulo , Fonseca Laura Martins , da Silva Francine Tavares , Dias Alvaro Renato Guerra , da Rosa Zavareze Elessandra
Published: December 2019

There is a worldwide demand for environment‐friendly, biodegradable materials. The objective of this study is to develop biocomposite films using native or phosphorylated wheat starch reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) from three different sources, rice, oat, and eucalyptus husks. The films are evaluated by their morphology, thermal properties, relative crystallinity (RC), water vapor permeability (WVP), and mechanical properties. The high RC of the CNCs increases the RC of biocomposite films. The films produced using native and phosphorylated starches present higher WVP than those incorporated within CNCs. The films without CNCs also present low solubility, remain intact after 24 h of immersion in water under agitation, and resist water absorption. The CNCs incorporation increases the tensile strength of the films. Biocomposite films produced using native starch and oat CNCs yield the highest tensile strength (5.07 ± 0.33 MPa), showing a remarkable increase of 91.3% when compared to the film obtained using native starch (2.65 ± 0.09 MPa). The biocomposite films produced in this study show satisfactory mechanical properties, such as high resistance and flexibility, thereby presenting great potential for application in food industry.
Electrical Methods to Elucidate Charge Transport in Hybrid Perovskites Thin Films and Devices
Authors: Taukeer Khan Mohd , Almohammedi Abdullah , Kazim Samrana , Ahmad Shahzada
Published: December 2019

The panchromatic light absorption and excellent charge carrier transport properties in organo lead halide perovskites allowed to achieve an unprecedented power conversion efficiency in excess of 25 % for thin film photovoltaics fabrication. To understand the underlying phenomena, various comprehensive set of optical and electrical techniques have been employed to investigate the charge carrier dynamics in such devices. In this perspective, we aim to summarize the electrical transport properties of perovskite thin films by using (i) impedance spectroscopy (IS), (ii) space charge limited current (SCLC), (iii) field‐effect transistors (FETs) and (iv) time‐of‐flight (TOF) methods. We have deliberated various equivalent circuit used to model the perovskite solar cells by means of IS. The SCLC technique provide vital electrical parameters such as mobility, activation energy, traps density and distribution, carrier concentration, density of states, etc. The TOF technique measures mobility as a primary parameter while the FETs configuration provide a valuable insight into the in‐plane charge transport in perovskites thin films. We believe that these notable understanding will provide insights into charge carrier dynamics in perovskite materials and devices.
Design of Advanced Functional Materials Using Nanoporous Single‐Site Photocatalysts
Authors: Mori Kohsuke , Qian Xufang , Kuwahara Yasutaka , Horiuchi Yu , Kamegawa Takashi , Zhao Yixin , Louis Catherine , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: December 2019

Nanoporous silica solids can offer opportunities for hosting photocatalytic components such as various tetra‐coordinated transition metal ions to form systems referred to as “single‐site photocatalysts”. Under UV/visible‐light irradiation, they form charge transfer excited states, which exhibit a localized charge separation and thus behave differently from those of bulk semiconductor photocatalysts exemplified by TiO2. This account presents an overview of the design of advanced functional materials based on the unique photo‐excited mechanisms of single‐site photocatalysts. Firstly, the incorporation of single‐site photocatalysts within transparent porous silica films will be introduced, which exhibit not only unique photocatalytic properties, but also high surface hydrophilicity with self‐cleaning and antifogging applications. Secondary, photo‐assisted deposition (PAD) of metal precursors on single‐site photocatalysts opens up a new route to prepare nanoparticles. Thirdly, visible light sensitive photocatalysts with single and/or binary oxides moieties can be prepared so as to use solar light, the ideal energy source.
Cover Image, Volume 7, Issue 1
Authors: Closas Alvar , Villholth Karen G.
Published: December 2019

The cover image is based on the Overview Groundwater Governance: Addressing core concepts and challenges, by Alvar Closas and Karen Villholth. https://doi.org/10.1002/wat2.1392

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Enhancing cancer therapeutic efficacy through ultrasound‐mediated micro‐to‐nano conversion
Authors: Hameed Sadaf , Zhang Miaomiao , Bhattarai Pravin , Mustafa Ghulam , Dai Zhifei
Published: December 2019

Over the last century, significant progress has been made towards the development of microbubbles (MBs) as a contrast agent for imaging and as a carrier for the delivery of therapeutic moieties. The unparalleled ability of MBs to respond to ultrasound (US) render them advantageous for molecular imaging, and US‐responsive targeted delivery. However, the use of MBs has broadened far beyond the imaging contrast agent or drug delivery system alone. Notably, there has been an enormous surge in the design and fabrication of multimodal MBs for cancer therapy. Furthermore, MBs in the presence of the US has unique ability to convert itself from the micro to nanoscale, which offers diagnostic and therapeutic ability in both dimensions. In this review, we summarize the design considerations of MBs, with particular emphasize on their size and composition. In addition, different MBs formulations are discussed in the context of their current progress as an imaging contrast agent and a vehicle for drug/gene delivery. We further highlight recent advancements in the micro‐to‐nano conversion of MBs and their potential application for cancer theranostics.

This article is characterized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies
Assessment of health-related quality of life in patients with cystinuria on tiopronin therapy
Authors: Modersitzki Frank , Goldfarb David S. , Goldstein Ross L. , Sur Roger L. , Penniston Kristina L.
Published: December 2019

Cystinuria comprises less than 1% of kidney stones and is associated with impaired health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Limited evidence is available regarding HRQOL of patients with cystinuria treated with tiopronin (Thiola®). The objective of this study was to assess the HRQOL of patients with or without tiopronin treatment. For this cross-sectional survey, patients on tiopronin treatment were recruited through the “Thiola® Total Care Hub,” a specialty pharmacy used to dispense tiopronin, and compared with patients not taking tiopronin (non-tiopronin group) who were identified from the Cystinuria Contact Registry at New York University School of Medicine. Consented patients responded to a survey that included questions about their experiences with kidney stones, the Wisconsin stone quality of life (WISQOL) (disease-specific) questionnaire, and the short form-36 version 2 (SF-36v2) (generic) HRQOL questionnaire. Statistical analyses included independent-sample t tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and correlations. The survey was completed by 312 patients: 267 in the tiopronin group (144 male, 123 female; mean 49 years) and 45 in the non-tiopronin group (10 male, 35 female; mean 48 years). Both groups utilized pain medications similarly (24% overall). Patients on tiopronin had a significantly better HRQOL than patients not on tiopronin for all WISQOL domains (p < 0.001) and all but the physical functioning SF-36v2 domain (p < 0.001), where both groups approached the US normative mean, when controlling for the last stone event. Compared with patients in the non-tiopronin group, patients taking tiopronin reported better HRQOL on both the WISQOL and SF-36v2.