bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What cervical screening is appropriate for women who have been vaccinated against high risk HPV? A simulation study
Authors: Landy Rebecca , Windridge Peter , Gillman Matthew S. , Sasieni Peter D.
Published: October 2017

Women vaccinated against HPV16/18 are approaching the age for cervical screening; however, an updated screening algorithm has not been agreed. We use a microsimulation model calibrated to real published data to determine the appropriate screening intensity for vaccinated women. Natural histories in the absence of vaccination were simulated for 300,000 women using 10,000 sets of transition probabilities. Vaccination with (i) 100% efficacy against HPV16/18, (ii) 15% cross‐protection, (iii) 22% cross‐protection, (iv) waning vaccine efficacy and (v) 100% efficacy against HPV16/18/31/33/45/52/58 was added, as were a range of screening scenarios appropriate to the UK. To benchmark cost‐benefits of screening for vaccinated women, we evaluated the proportion of cancers prevented per additional screen (incremental benefit) of current cytology and likely HPV screening scenarios in unvaccinated women. Slightly more cancers are prevented through vaccination with no screening (70.3%, 95% CR: 65.1–75.5) than realistic compliance to the current UK screening programme in the absence of vaccination (64.3%, 95% CR: 61.3–66.8). In unvaccinated women, when switching to HPV primary testing, there is no loss in effectiveness when doubling the screening interval. Benchmarking supports screening scenarios with incremental benefits of ≥2.0%, and rejects scenarios with incremental benefits ≤0.9%. In HPV16/18‐vaccinated women, the incremental benefit of offering a third lifetime screen was at most 3.3% (95% CR: 2.2–4.5), with an incremental benefit of 1.3% (−0.3–2.8) for a fourth screen. For HPV16/18/31/33/45/52/58‐vaccinated women, two lifetime screens are supported. It is important to know women's vaccination status; in these simulations, HPV16/18‐vaccinated women require three lifetime screens, HPV16/18/31/33/45/52/58‐vaccinated women require two lifetime screens, yet unvaccinated women require seven lifetime screens.
Lower socioeconomic status is independently associated with shorter survival in Hodgkin Lymphoma patients—An analysis from the Brazilian Hodgkin Lymphoma Registry
Authors: Biasoli Irene , Castro Nelson , Delamain Marcia , Silveira Talita , Farley James , Pinto Simões Belinda , Solza Cristiana , Praxedes Monica , Baiocchi Otávio , Gaiolla Rafael , Franceschi Fernanda , Bonamin Sola Caroline , Boquimpani Carla , Clementino Nelma , Fleury Perini Guilherme , Pagnano Kátia , Steffenello Giovana , Tabacof Jacques , de Freitas Colli Gilberto , Soares Andrea , de Souza Carmino , Chiattone Carlos Sérgio , Raggio Luiz Ronir , Milito Cristiane , Morais José Carlos , Spector Nelson
Published: October 2017

Socioeconomic status (SES) is a well‐known determinant of outcomes in cancer. The purpose of this study was to analyze the impact of the SES on the outcomes of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients from the Brazilian Prospective HL Registry. SES stratification was done using an individual asset/education‐based household index. A total of 624 classical HL patients with diagnosis from January/2009 to December/2014, and treated with ABVD (doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine and dacarbazine), were analyzed. The median follow‐up was 35.6 months, and 33% were classified as lower SES. The 3‐year progression‐ free survival (PFS) in higher and lower SES were 78 and 64% (p < 0.0001), respectively. The 3‐year overall survival (OS) in higher and lower SES were 94 and 82% (p < 0.0001), respectively. Lower SES patients were more likely to be ≥ 60 years (16 vs. 8%, p = 0.003), and to present higher risk International Prognostic score (IPS) (44 vs. 31%, p = 0.004) and advanced disease (71 vs. 58%, p = 0.003). After adjustments for potential confounders, lower SES remained independently associated with poorer survival (HR = 3.12 [1.86‐5.22] for OS and HR = 1.66 [1.19‐2.32] for PFS). The fatality ratio during treatment was 7.5 and 1.3% for lower and higher SES (p = 0.0001). Infections and treatment toxicity accounted for 81% of these deaths. SES is an independent factor associated with shorter survival in HL in Brazil. Potential underlying mechanisms associated with the impact of SES are delayed diagnosis and poorer education. Educational and socio‐economic support interventions must be tested in this vulnerable population.
Repair of a critical‐size segmental rabbit femur defect using bioglass‐β‐TCP monoblock, a vascularized periosteal flap and BMP‐2
Authors: Pan Zhaohui , Jiang Pingping , Xue Shan , Wang Tao , Li Hongfei , Wang Jianli
Published: October 2017

Various synthetic bone substitutes are not suitable for reconstructing critical‐size bone defects. This study tested whether a bioglass‐β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) monoblock is effective for repairing critical‐size segmental bone defects if combined with a vascularized periosteal flap and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)‐2. A femoral osteotomy with a gap size of 20 mm was created and stabilized using a plate in 40 rabbits.The defect was left untreated (group A) or repaired using a monoblock (group B), a monoblock with a vascularized periosteal flap (group C), or a monoblock with a vascularized periosteal flap and BMP‐2 (group D). Bone regeneration, vascularization and monoblock degradation were analyzed after four and eight weeks using x‐ray, hematoxylin‐eosin, CD34 immunohistochemical and Masson's trichrome staining observation and histometric evaluation. The radiographic grading score showed a time‐dependent increase from weeks 4 to 8. At 8‐week postoperative, the total new regenerated bone in groups C and D was 20.0 ± 0.3 and 55.5 ± 8.0 mm2, respectively, which was significantly greater than in group B. Conversely, group D showed less residual monoblock than did group C. An increase in microvessel density was also observed in groups C and D compared with group B at 4 and 8 weeks postoperative, respectively. This study suggests that bioglass‐β‐TCP monoblock alone exhibits poor potential to repair a 20‐mm femoral defect. However, supplementation with a vascularized periosteal flap and BMP‐2 led to effective vascularization and reliable bone regeneration throughout the monoblock, with concordant material degradation in a timely manner. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 2148–2156, 2018.
Piperidine‐Promoted Three‐Component Condensation: Synthesis of Chromene Heterocycles and Pyrazolotriazoles
Authors: Kangani Mehrnoush , Hazeri Nourallah , Yazdani‐Elah‐Abadi Afshin , Maghsoodlou Malek‐Taher
Published: October 2017

Chromenes, the oxygen‐containing heterocyclic compounds, have a “special” place in biologically active natural products and in synthetic chemistry and in the fields of medicinal, agrochemical, cosmetic, and pigment industries. In this work, piperidine was used as a base catalyst for the convenient synthesis of 1,4‐dihydropyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazole, 5,10‐dihydro‐4H‐benzo[g]chromene, and pyrazolo[1,2‐a] [1,2,4]triazole derivatives at ambient temperature. This methodology has several advantages including the use of easily accessible and inexpensive catalysts, short reaction times, high yields, convenient work‐up, and not needing column chromatography.
Analgesic, Antiinflammatory, and Antipyretic Effects of S(+)‐Ketoprofen In Vivo
Authors: Cabré Francesc , Fernández M. Francisca , Calvo Lidia , Ferrer Xavier , García M. Luisa , Mauleón David
Published: October 2017

Many studies indicate that the S‐enantiomers of arylpropionic (APA) nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the pharmacologically active enantiomers. S(+)‐ketoprofen (dexketoprofen) stereoselectively inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) in vitro but very little is known about the differential activity of ketoprofen enantiomers in vivo. We examined the analgesic, antiinflammatory, and antipyretic activities of S(+)‐ketoprofen in rats and mice. First, we measured the antinociceptive action of S(+)‐ketoprofen in abdominal pain models. After intravenous administration, 0.5 mg/kg S(+)‐ketoprofen inhibited 92.1 ± 2.2% of writhing in mice. Stereoselectivity in the activity was detected; intravenous administration of the R(−)‐enantiomer resulted in no statistically significant activity in a dose range of 0.15–1 mg/kg. Similar results were obtained after oral administration in mice. In the rat, S(+)‐ketoprofen was a more potent analgesic than diclofenac by both intravenous and oral administration. There was no significant difference between the analgesic effect of S(+)‐ketoprofen treatment and the twofold dose of the racemic form in both the mouse and rat models. Second, we measured the antiinflammatory activity of S(+)‐ketoprofen using a carrageenan‐induced paw edema model in the rat. Intravenous administration of 5 mg/kg of S(+)‐ketoprofen almost completely inhibited edema formation. After oral administration, S(+)‐ketoprofen is both more potent and effective than diclofenac. Third, we measured antipyretic activity. S(+)‐ketoprofen showed a marked antipyretic action (ED50 = 1.6 mg/kg) and was the most potent of the NSAIDs tested. S(+)‐ketoprofen is a potent antiinflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic agent in vivo, consistent with its potent anti‐COX activity.
Pharmacokinetics of Dexketoprofen Trometamol in Healthy Volunteers After Single and Repeated Oral Doses
Authors: Barbanoj Manel J. , Gich Ignasi , Artigas Remei , Tost Digna , Moros Cristina , Antonijoan Rosa M. , García M. Luisa , Mauleón David
Published: October 2017

The pharmacokinetics of dexketoprofen trometamol were evaluated in two studies using healthy volunteers. In the first study, the relative bioavailability of a single oral capsule of dexketoprofen free acid 25 mg or dexketoprofen trometamol 25 mg (given as 37 mg of the trometamol salt) was compared to ketoprofen 50 mg in 18 healthy volunteers. In the second study, the pharmacokinetics and tolerability of oral dexketoprofen trometamol in tablet form were evaluated after either a single 25 mg dose (24 volunteers) or a repeated dose of 25 mg twice daily for 7 days (12 volunteers). The absorption of dexketoprofen from dexketoprofen trometamol capsules was bioequivalent to that of ketoprofen. On the other hand, the extent of absorption of dexketoprofen free acid was significantly lower than that for ketoprofen. Dexketoprofen trometamol showed the most rapid absorption rate, with highest Cmax and shortest tmax values, whereas dexketoprofen free acid had the slowest absorption rate, and ketoprofen had an intermediate absorption rate. After repeated‐dose administration of dexketoprofen trometamol, the pharmacokinetic parameters were similar to those obtained after single doses, indicating that no drug accumulation occurred. Dexketoprofen trometamol was well tolerated, with no clinically relevant adverse events reported.
Comparison of the Efficacy and Tolerability of Dexketoprofen and Ketoprofen in the Treatment of Primary Dysmenorrhea
Authors: Ezcurdia Miguel , Cortejoso Francisco Javier , Lanzón Ramón , Ugalde Francisco Javier , Herruzo Alfonso , Artigas Remei , Fernández M. Francisca , Torres Ferran , Mauleón David
Published: October 2017

Dexketoprofen, the pure S(+)‐enantiomer of ketoprofen, is a promising new analgesic, but few clinical trials have yet examined its efficacy and tolerability. In this study, patients with a history of primary dysmenorrhea were treated with dexketoprofen doses of 12.5 and 25 mg, ketoprofen 50 mg, and placebo using a randomized, four‐way crossover design. Efficacy analyses showed that dexketoprofen 12.5 and 25 mg and racemic ketoprofen 50 mg significantly reduced pain intensity compared with placebo from 1 h after dose to 4–6 h after dose. Interestingly, dexketoprofen at 12.5 mg was significantly superior to placebo at 30 min after dose. Mean pain relief scores also demonstrated that both doses of dexketoprofen and racemic ketoprofen were significantly superior to placebo at 1–6 h after the first dose. No indices of analgesic efficacy showed any significant differences between the two doses of dexketoprofen or between dexketoprofen and ketoprofen. After repeated dose administration, similar results were obtained. There were no significant effects of any treatment on activities of daily living, menstrual flow, or associated symptoms. Dexketoprofen was effective, well tolerated, and had no difference in the incidence of adverse events compared to ketoprofen or placebo.
Design, Synthesis, and in vitro Anti‐mycobacterial Evaluation of Propylene‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazole‐4‐methylene‐tethered (Thio)semicarbazone‐isatin‐moxifloxacin Hybrids
Authors: Xu Zhi , Song Xu‐Feng , Fan Jing , Lv Zao‐Sheng
Published: October 2017

A new class of propylene‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazole‐4‐methylene‐tethered (thio)semicarbazone‐isatin‐moxifloxacin hybrids 6a–h was designed, synthesized, and screened for their in vitro anti‐mycobacterial activities against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) H37Rv and MDR‐TB as well as cytotoxicity in VERO cell line. All the synthesized hybrids (MIC: 0.05–2.0 μg/mL) exhibited excellent activities against M. tuberculosis H37Rv and MDR‐TB; in particular, conjugate 6c (MIC: 0.05 and 0.12 μg/mL) was no inferior to the three references MXFX (MIC: 0.10 and 0.12 μg/mL), RIF (MIC: 0.39 and 32 μg/mL), and INH (MIC: 0.05 and >128 μg/mL) against the tested two strains. All hybrids (CC50: 2–8 μg/mL) were much more cytotoxic than the parent MXFX (CC50: 128 μg/mL) should be further optimized.
Labelling with positron emitters of pnicogens and chalcogens
Authors: Ermert Johannes
Published: October 2017

The increasing importance of the positron emission tomography (PET) in clinical diagnosis led to the development of a multitude of radiotracers labelled with positron‐emitting radionuclides of groups 15 (pnicogens) and 16 (chalcogens) of the periodic table of elements. The positron emitters of the endogenous occurring elements nitrogen, phosphorus, oxygen, and sulphur are characterized by very short half‐lives compared with the most commonly used PET radionuclides carbon‐11 or fluorine‐18. Therefore, the potential of their synthesis and possible applications in PET is challenging and limited. On the other hand, the nonstandard positron emitters arsenic‐72, arsenic‐74, and selenium‐73 have half‐lives in the range of hours to days and, thus, are of interest for PET studies of processes with long biological half‐lives, but novel methods have to be developed for their application, especially in the no‐carrier‐added state. This review summarizes recent research concerning the positron emitters of pnicogens and chalcogens for radiolabelling applications.
Interleukin‐1 gene cluster Haplotype analysis in the chronic outcome prediction of the Hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Javan Bita , Kalani Mohamad R. , Shahbazi Majid
Published: October 2017

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is well known as an important cause of the chronic liver disease. The screening of the genotype of certain cytokines might be helpful to predict the clinical outcome of an HBV infection. The present study investigates the relationship between the polymorphism and haplotypes of the Interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) gene family, including IL‐1‐alpha (IL‐1A), IL‐1‐beta (IL‐1B,) and IL‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1RN), with chronic HBV infection. A total of 297 chronic HBV and 333 matched on sex and age control individuals were genotyped using the standard sequence‐specific‐polymerase chain reaction primer (SSP‐PCR) method. Four different haplotype analysis software packages were applied for data interpretation. The results showed excess genotype A1/A1 and A2/A2 at IL‐1RN (40.2%, 39.9%), C/T at IL‐1A‐889 (55.6%), and C/C at IL‐1B‐511 (41.1%) in controls while A1/A1 at IL‐1RN (59.3%), T/T at IL‐1B‐31 (46.5%), C/T at IL‐1B + 3953 (65%), in chronic HBV infection cases. A total of 148 haplotypes were observed overall (96 in the case group and 89 in the control group). The haplotype combination of genotype A1/A1 at IL1‐RN along with a C/T for all three IL‐1B polymorphic positions and either C/T or T/T at the IL‐1A‐899 position may increase the probability of the chronic outcome for the HBV infection.
Hepatitis C virus infection in Jeddah city, Saudi Arabia: Seroprevalence and knowledge
Authors: Al‐Raddadi Rajaa M. , Dashash Noha A. , Alghamdi Hani A. , Al‐Raddadi Zeyad M. , Alzahrani Hanan S. , Alsahafi Abdullah J. , Algarni Abdullah M. , Alghamdi Majed M. , Hakim Raghad F. , Al‐Zalabani Abdulmohsen H. , Hakim Fanar , Moria Feras A.
Published: October 2017

The infection rate of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Saudi Arabia is among the lowest in the world. However, it is likely that poor knowledge and awareness of HCV infection could minimize the effectiveness of prevention and control programs in the kingdom. Thus, the study objective was to estimate the prevalence of HCV infection, and to assess current knowledge about it, in the targeted population. Data on 5482 Saudi people attending primary healthcare centers in Jeddah City in 2014/2015 were analyzed in this cross‐sectional study. Questions that covered the natural history, risk behavior, and prevention, and treatment of HCV were collected using a predesigned questionnaire. HCV seroprevalence was assessed using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. HCV prevalence of 0.38% (95% confidence interval: 0.22‐0.54) was found. The level of knowledge of the natural history, risk behavior, and prevention and treatment of HCV was poor among the participants. The lowest level of knowledge for all participants pertained to its prevention and treatment. The prevalence of HCV was low in Saudi Arabia (0.38%). However, adequate knowledge of HCV was lacking. Thus, the need to increase knowledge and awareness of HCV in the Saudi population is warranted.
Spatial and temporal variability of the Iberian Peninsula coastal low‐level jet
Authors: Rijo Nadia , Semedo Alvaro , Miranda Pedro M. A. , Lima Daniela , Cardoso Rita M. , Soares Pedro M. M.
Published: October 2017

The spatial variability and the climatic characteristics of the coastal low‐level jet along the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula are presented in this study, based on a 9‐km resolution downscaling data set, produced using the weather research and forecasting model, forced by the ERA‐Interim reanalysis. The west coast of Iberia is divided into two (north and south) subareas, where the Iberian Peninsula coastal jet (IPCJ) characteristics are studied separately, and compared to the whole western Iberia. It is shown that while IPCJ occurrences are more frequent in the southern area, during summer (June–August), the jet mean wind speed maxima is highest in the northernmost area. The along‐ and cross‐coast sea surface temperature (SST) structure is studied and linked to the coastal wind speed. It is also shown that the local cross‐coast marine atmospheric boundary layer gradient at the coast is considerably higher than the synoptic one, and that this difference is responsible for the local intensification of the wind speed. The flow interaction with the three major capes along the west coast of Iberia (Finisterre, Roca, and Saint Vincent) is responsible for local higher occurrence of the IPCJ, as well as the downwind intensification of the wind speed. The along‐coast west Iberia wind speed structure due to IPCJ occurrences is shown. The diurnal cycle of the IPCJ is studied in the extended boreal summer (May–September), with higher mean IPCJ occurrences and jet wind speeds in late the afternoon.
Additive manufactured push‐fit implant fixation with screw‐strength pull out
Authors: van Arkel Richard J. , Ghouse Shaaz , Milner Piers E. , Jeffers Jonathan R. T.
Published: October 2017

Additive manufacturing offers exciting new possibilities for improving long‐term metallic implant fixation in bone through enabling open porous structures for bony ingrowth. The aim of this research was to investigate how the technology could also improve initial fixation, a precursor to successful long‐term fixation. A new barbed fixation mechanism, relying on flexible struts was proposed and manufactured as a push‐fit peg. The technology was optimized using a synthetic bone model and compared with conventional press‐fit peg controls tested over a range of interference fits. Optimum designs, achieving maximum pull‐out force, were subsequently tested in a cadaveric femoral condyle model. The barbed fixation surface provided more than double the pull‐out force for less than a third of the insertion force compared to the best performing conventional press‐fit peg (p < 0.001). Indeed, it provided screw‐strength pull out from a push‐fit device (1,124 ± 146 N). This step change in implant fixation potential offers new capabilities for low profile, minimally invasive implant design, while providing new options to simplify surgery, allowing for one‐piece push‐fit components with high levels of initial stability. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 36:1508–1518, 2018.
The use of factorial design to evaluate the oxidation of oils containing different types of omega‐3 fatty acids
Authors: Agnes Dias Fabiano Thamyris , Grassmann Roschel Gabriela , Alves Castro Inar
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Omega‐3 fatty acids (n3 FA) promote beneficial effects on cardiovascular diseases, but they are highly susceptible to oxidation, which leads to the formation of potentially toxic secondary products. In this study, the antioxidant capacity of natural compounds (sinapic acid and rutin) was evaluated using an accelerated model to oxidize the oils. Five inducers (temperature, Fe2+, 2,2′‐azobis(2‐amidinopropane) dihydrochloride, ascorbyl palmitate and the hydrophobic 2,2′‐azobis‐2,4‐dimethylvaleronitrile (AMVN)) were combined in a factorial design to accelerate the oxidation of three oils (flaxseed, echium and fish) containing different sources of n3 FA.

RESULTS

Lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) concentrations estimated using the regression models did not differ from the observed values. AMVN + Fe2+ increased TBARS in all samples.

CONCLUSION

The values for the oxidative markers obtained 48 h after induction were similar to those obtained when the oils were heated at 60 ° C for 15 days. Of a number of volatile compounds formed from the oxidation of different n3 FA sources, (E,E)‐2,4‐heptadienal, (E,E)‐2,4‐decadienal, decanal, undecanal and (E)‐2‐undecenal were identified in all samples and could be used as more specific oxidative markers. Using the accelerated model, rutin improved the oxidative stability of fish oil, probably due to the presence of a catechol group in its chemical structure. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Risk of posttransplant hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence is greater in recipients with higher platelet counts in living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Han Sangbin , Lee Sanghoon , Yang Ju Dong , Leise Michael Douglas , Ahn Joong Hyun , Kim Seonwoo , Jung Kangha , Gwak Mi Sook , Kim Gaab Soo , Ko Justin Sangwook
Published: October 2017

Platelets interact with tumor cells and promote metastasis. The importance of platelets in posttransplant hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence is unclear. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the association between preoperative platelet count (PLT) and HCC recurrence after living donor liver transplantation. Of 359 recipients of livers from living donors for HCC, 209 of 240 patients who had preoperative PLT ≤75 × 109/L were matched with 97 of 119 patients who had preoperative PLT >75 × 109/L using propensity score matching, with an unfixed matching ratio based on factors such as tumor biology. The cutoff value of 75 × 109/L was set based on optimum stratification analysis. Survival analysis was performed with death as a competing risk event. The primary outcome was overall HCC recurrence. The median follow‐up time was 59 months. Before matching, recurrence probability at 1, 2, and 5 years after transplantation was 4.7%, 9.2%, and 11.3% for the low platelet group and 14.5%, 23.0%, and 30.5% for the high platelet group. Recurrence risk was significantly greater in the high platelet group in both univariate (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.09; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.86‐5.14; P < 0.001) and multivariate analyses (HR = 2.10; 95% CI, 1.23‐3.60; P =  0.007). In the matched analysis, recurrence risk was also greater in the high platelet group in both univariate (HR = 2.33; 95% CI, 1.36‐4.01; P =  0.002) and multivariate analyses (HR = 1.90; 95% CI, 1.02‐3.54; P =  0.04). Preoperative PLT had no interaction with the Milan criteria, alpha‐fetoprotein level, Edmonson grade, microvascular invasion, or intrahepatic metastasis. Incorporation of preoperative PLT into the Milan criteria significantly improved predictive power. Inflammation‐based scores including neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, and the inflammation‐based index did not show superiority to preoperative PLT in predicting HCC recurrence. In conclusion, preoperative PLT appears to be an important host factor affecting HCC recurrence after living donor liver transplantation. Liver Transplantation 24 44–55 2018 AASLD.
Phase Segregation in Supramolecular Polymers Based on Telechelics Synthesized via Multicomponent Reactions
Authors: Sehlinger Ansgar , Bartnick Nikolai , Gunkel Ilja , Meier Michael A. R. , Montero de Espinosa Lucas
Published: October 2017

The properties of supramolecular polymers in the solid state are strongly dependent on the binding strength of the supramolecular motifs used; however, It has been previously shown that the nanostructure of supramolecular polymers plays an equally important role. Supramolecular polymers are commonly synthesized via end‐group functionalization of low‐glass transition telechelics with supramolecular units. In these systems, the binding motifs segregate from the soft telechelic backbone and form a hydrogen bonded crystalline hard phase that provides physical cross‐links. To date, the reported synthetic approaches do not permit the introduction of a wide variety of supramolecular units with low synthetic effort, which would facilitate studying the structure‐property relationships. The use of the Passerini and Ugi multicomponent reactions to synthesize various poly(ethylene‐co‐butylene) telechelics with diverse amide end‐groups is reported. The thermal properties of the supramolecular polymers obtained through their solid‐state assembly are investigated and their nanophase‐segregation is studied, which is dictated by the end‐group volume fraction and the amide–amide hydrogen bonding.
Systematic Variation of the Degree of Branching (DB) of Polyglycerol via Oxyanionic Copolymerization of Glycidol with a Protected Glycidyl Ether and Its Impact on Rheological Properties
Authors: Schubert Christian , Schömer Martina , Steube Marvin , Decker Stefan , Friedrich Christian , Frey Holger
Published: October 2017

In an oxyanionic polymerization, glycidol as a latent AB2 monomer is copolymerized with the protected linear AB glycidyl ether monomer EEGE (ethoxy ethyl glycidyl ether) to generate hyperbranched polyglycerols with an adjustable degree of branching (DB) after deprotection. The DB for the random copolymers is controlled by the comonomer content (10–92% EEGE). Detailed 13C NMR and 2D NMR studies are carried out for precise calculation of the actual DB, which is in the range of 0.17–0.58. The acetal protecting group of EEGE can be cleaved by acidic treatment to generate linear or terminal glycerol units with increased content of linear glycerol repeat units and thus decreased DB. The course of the DB with increasing AB comonomer content perfectly confirms the theoretical prediction, demonstrating that high AB contents (>50%) are required for a significant reduction of the DB. Moderate polydispersities are obtained for the resulting polyglycerols (Mw/Mn < 2.0, Mn: 4100–5100 g mol−1). The hyperbranched polyglycerols with tailored degree of branching (DB) are investigated. A pronounced dependence of the structure‐property relationship on the degree of branching indicates increasing intramolecular hydrogen bonds when increasing the degree of branching.
Initiated‐Chemical Vapor Deposition of Polymer Thin Films: Unexpected Two‐Regime Growth
Authors: Bonnet Laetitia , Altemus Bruce , Scarazzini Riccardo , Veillerot Marc , D'Agosto Franck , Faguet Jacques , Jousseaume Vincent
Published: October 2017

Initiated‐chemical vapor deposition (iCVD) is a very promising technique which has demonstrated the ability to deposit a large variety of polymers that can be integrated in micro‐nanotechnology applications. However, studies on the underlying growth mechanisms responsible for the formation of these thin films remain scarce in the literature. This work shows that the iCVD growth follows surprisingly two regimes: in the first stage of the growth, the deposition rate is relatively slow then increases with the deposition time until a linear growth is reached. The presence of these two growth regimes can be interpreted by taking into account, as the iCVD growth progresses, that the synthesized polymer chains help the monomer adsorption on the substrate which locally increases the concentration of monomers available for the polymerization and thus the growth rate. This increase of the local concentration of monomer consistently correlates with the formation of polymer chains with higher molar mass.
Calculating potential error in sodium MRI with respect to the analysis of small objects
Authors: Stobbe Robert W. , Beaulieu Christian
Published: October 2017

Purpose

To facilitate correct interpretation of sodium MRI measurements, calculation of error with respect to rapid signal decay is introduced and combined with that of spatially correlated noise to assess volume‐of‐interest (VOI) 23Na signal measurement inaccuracies, particularly for small objects.

Methods

Noise and signal decay–related error calculations were verified using twisted projection imaging and a specially designed phantom with different sized spheres of constant elevated sodium concentration. As a demonstration, lesion signal measurement variation (5 multiple sclerosis participants) was compared with that predicted from calculation.

Results

Both theory and phantom experiment showed that VOI signal measurement in a large 10‐mL, 314‐voxel sphere was 20% less than expected on account of point‐spread‐function smearing when the VOI was drawn to include the full sphere. Volume‐of‐interest contraction reduced this error but increased noise‐related error. Errors were even greater for smaller spheres (40–60% less than expected for a 0.35‐mL, 11‐voxel sphere). Image‐intensity VOI measurements varied and increased with multiple sclerosis lesion size in a manner similar to that predicted from theory. Correlation suggests large underestimation of 23Na signal in small lesions.

Conclusions

Acquisition‐specific measurement error calculation aids 23Na MRI data analysis and highlights the limitations of current low‐resolution methodologies. Magn Reson Med 79:2968–2977, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Comparing a novel hand held device (Peritron+) to standard urodynamics in measuring intravesical pressure
Authors: Ruzhynsky Vladimir A. , Bitzos Stephanie , Goping Ing , Radomski Sidney B.
Published: October 2017

Aims

Peritron+ is a new handheld device, which can be attached to a urethral catheter to measure intravesical pressures (Pves). The goal of this study was to assess if Pves recorded by standard urodynamics (UDs) are comparable to those recorded by the Peritron+.

Methods

Patients with voiding dysfunction and an indication for UD underwent measurement of Pves with nonvideo UD and Peritron+. Pves were recorded at volumes of 50, 100, and 200 mL for the supine and sitting positions. A failure of the Peritron+ was considered to be a discrepancy of Pves values >3 cmH2O between Peritron+ and UD recordings. Two‐way ANOVA was used to assess for statistical significance. P‐values < 0.05 were considered significant.

Results

Ten female patients, mean age 51 years old, were enrolled in the study. The difference in Pves measurements between Peritron+ and UD were ≤3 cmH2O at all bladder volumes measured in a supine and sitting positions. There were no adverse events and there were no malfunctions of the Peritron+ device during the study.

Conclusions

Peritron+ handheld device accurately assessed Pves at different intravesical volumes when compared to UD measurements. The Peritron+ is a simple and safe device, which can be used in the office by a clinician and at home by a patient to monitor Pves and help to select patients who may require standard UD re‐evaluation. This will be a valuable tool in managing patients with neurogenic and nonneurogenic bladders who are at a risk of upper urinary tract deterioration.
Heat Shock Protein 60 in Obesity: Effect of Bariatric Surgery and its Relation to Inflammation and Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Sell Henrike , Poitou Christine , Habich Christiane , Bouillot Jean‐Luc , Eckel Jürgen , Clément Karine
Published: October 2017

Objective

Heat shock protein 60 (Hsp60) is an adipokine, and its serum concentrations are higher in patients with obesity compared to lean patients. This study aimed to analyze the effect of bariatric surgery on circulating concentrations of Hsp60 in morbid obesity and their correlation with inflammation and metabolic and cardiovascular risk.

Methods

Fifty‐three females with morbid obesity undergoing bariatric surgery were enrolled. Serum parameters and anthropometric measures were obtained at baseline and 3 to 12 months post surgery.

Results

During the 12‐month observation period, Hsp60 decreased significantly from 31.6 ± 4.7 ng/mL at baseline to 22.3 ± 3.0 ng/mL (3 months), 26.5 ± 5.5 (6 months), and 21.1 ± 3.3 ng/mL (12 months). Preoperatively, Hsp60 concentrations correlated positively with total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and negatively with adiponectin. At the end of the observation period, serum Hsp60 positively correlated with triglycerides, ApoB, HbA1c, and C‐reactive protein (CRP). Patients in the highest quartile of serum Hsp60 were characterized by significantly elevated CRP and interleukin 6 independently of BMI, glycemia, and insulinemia. At baseline and 12 months after surgery, Hsp60 positively correlated with the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio and the cholesterol/high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio.

Conclusions

Hsp60 concentrations are elevated in morbid obesity and decreased after surgery‐induced weight loss. Their correlation with inflammatory markers and cardiovascular risk might link obesity and cardiovascular disease.
Role of Peroxisome Proliferator‐Activated Receptor (PPARγ) in Metabolic Disorders in SGA with Catch‐Up Growth
Authors: Lian Qiong‐Xia , Deng Hong‐Zhu , Chen Kai‐Yun , Deng Hong
Published: October 2017

Objective

Abnormal fat metabolism is a major disorder in adults who were small for gestational age (SGA). Peroxisome prolferator‐activated receptor (PPARγ) participates in adipocyte differentiation and the regulation of lipid metabolism. This study explored the role of PPARγ in the regulation of fat catch‐up growth (CUG) and the lipid metabolism of SGA individuals.

Methods

The CUG‐SGA rats were treated with pioglitazone. The weight of the visceral adipose tissue, serum lipid levels, and PPARγ expression in the visceral adipose tissue were detected at 4, 8, and 12 weeks of age.

Results

The PPARγ expression in the visceral adipose tissue in the CUG‐SGA group was lower than that in the appropriate for gestational age (AGA) group at 4, 8, and 12 weeks (P < 0.05). The serum triglycerides in the CUG‐SGA group were elevated compared with that in the AGA group at 4 and 12 weeks (P = 0.005; P = 0.037); however, they were significantly decreased after 8 weeks of pioglitazone intervention (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

PPARγ expression in the visceral adipose tissue was lower in SGA rats and may be related to the regulation of adipocyte differentiation. The early increased PPARγ expression by pioglitazone might reduce serum triglycerides and decrease the CUG of the visceral adipose tissue in SGA.
Characterization of dimensional stability in flax fiber reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: Davis Aubrey M. , Hanzly Laura E. , DeButts Barbara L. , Barone Justin R.
Published: October 2017

Flax fibers are a sustainable and high performance reinforcement for polymer composites. Molding polymers and polymer composites nearly always results in warpage or compromised “dimensional stability” of the part. However, there are very few reports on the quantitative analysis of dimensional stability, especially for natural fiber reinforced polymer composites. A systematic study of the dimensional stability of flax fiber reinforced polypropylene (PP) composites is undertaken by measuring the shrinkage of the composites after molding. Shrinkage is directly related to dimensional stability. Using flax fibers decreases part shrinkage or increases dimensional stability. Shrinkage in the molding flow direction is less than shrinkage perpendicular to it, which is shown to be a result of fiber orientation in that direction. Using maleic anhydride modified PP as a coupling agent further decreases the shrinkage. It is found that less shrinkage occurs in composites of higher modulus. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:132–140, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Optimization of reaction parameters in the conversion of PET to produce BHET
Authors: Capeletti María Rosa , Passamonti Francisco Javier
Published: October 2017

The conversion of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) was analyzed in order to define the optimal conditions for the Bis(2‐Hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET) yield as regards catalyst use (zinc acetate), glycol (ethylene glycol), reaction time and temperature. These conditions were optimized so as to decrease the consumption of catalyst and glycolytic agents aiming to extend the analysis to achieve continuous recycling at a greater scale. At the same time, an analysis of the activity of different catalysts (zeolites, acid, and basic resins) was performed; no BHET yields of commercial interest were obtained. The results indicate that a very small catalyst/PET mass ratio and a low glycol/PET ratio are necessary. The reactions were carried out at a temperature of 195°C and a reaction time of 1 h: under these conditions, BHET yield is 30% (starting from pure PET) and up to 88.2% (recycling oligomers plus pure PET). POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1500–1507, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Computational characterization of substrate and product specificities, and functionality of S‐adenosylmethionine binding pocket in histone lysine methyltransferases from Arabidopsis, rice and maize
Authors: Satish Mutyala , Nivya M. Angel , Abhishek Suman , Nakarakanti Naveen Kumar , Shivani Dixit , Vani Madishetti Vinuthna , Rajakumara Eerappa
Published: October 2017

Histone lysine methylation by histone lysine methyltransferases (HKMTs) has been implicated in regulation of gene expression. While significant progress has been made to understand the roles and mechanisms of animal HKMT functions, only a few plant HKMTs are functionally characterized. To unravel histone substrate specificity, degree of methylation and catalytic activity, we analyzed Arabidopsis Trithorax‐like protein (ATX), Su(var)3‐9 homologs protein (SUVH), Su(var)3‐9 related protein (SUVR), ATXR5, ATXR6, and E(Z) HKMTs of Arabidopsis, maize and rice through sequence and structure comparison. We show that ATXs may exhibit methyltransferase specificity toward histone 3 lysine 4 (H3K4) and might catalyse the trimethylation. Our analyses also indicate that most SUVH proteins of Arabidopsis may bind histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9). We also predict that SUVH7, SUVH8, SUVR1, SUVR3, ZmSET20 and ZmSET22 catalyse monomethylation or dimethylation of H3K9. Except for SDG728, which may trimethylate H3K9, all SUVH paralogs in rice may catalyse monomethylation or dimethylation. ZmSET11, ZmSET31, SDG713, SDG715, and SDG726 proteins are predicted to be catalytically inactive because of an incomplete S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM) binding pocket and a post‐SET domain. E(Z) homologs can trimethylate H3K27 substrate, which is similar to the Enhancer of Zeste homolog 2 of humans. Our comparative sequence analyses reveal that ATXR5 and ATXR6 lack motifs/domains required for protein‐protein interaction and polycomb repressive complex 2 complex formation. We propose that subtle variations of key residues at substrate or SAM binding pocket, around the catalytic pocket, or presence of pre‐SET and post‐SET domains in HKMTs of the aforementioned plant species lead to variations in class‐specific HKMT functions and further determine their substrate specificity, the degree of methylation and catalytic activity.
Bio‐prospecting endemic Mascarene Aloes for potential neuroprotectants
Authors: Lobine D. , Howes M‐J.R. , Cummins I. , Govinden‐Soulange J. , Ranghoo‐Sanmukhiya M. , Lindsey K. , Chazot P.L.
Published: October 2017

The Mascarene Aloes are used in the traditional pharmacopoeia against various ailments including cutaneous diseases and as antispasmodics. Scientific evidence to support these claims is non‐existent and mainly based on the scientific repute of A. vera. The antioxidant profile of methanolic leaf extracts of A. purpurea Lam., A. tormentorii (Marais) L. E. Newton & G. D. Rowley, A. lomatophylloides Balf. f., A. macra Haw. and A. vera (L.) Burm. f. was studied using the total antioxidant capacity, copper equivalent and superoxide dismutase assays. In vitro cytotoxicity was evaluated on CAD (Cath.‐a‐differentiated) neuronal cells by the methyl tetrazolium assay, and the neuroprotective profile was assessed using hydrogen peroxide‐induced neurotoxicity with the CAD cells. The aloin and vitexin content were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode‐array detection. A. purpurea had the highest aloin content (546.6 nmol/g), while A. tormentorii had the highest vitexin content (67.3 nmol/g). A. macra (concentration <0.1 mg/mL) elicited a 10% cytotoxicity effect on CAD cells while other Mascarene Aloes were not cytotoxic. This study validates the antioxidant and neuroprotective potential of Mascarene Aloes focusing on their aloin and vitexin content that are also present in other reputed medicinal Aloes.
Protective effect of cinnamic acid in endotoxin‐poisoned mice
Authors: Xu Feng , Wang Feng , Wen Taoqun , Sang Wentao , He Xinyu , Li Ling , Zeng Nan
Published: October 2017

In this work, we aimed to evaluate the protective effect of cinnamic acid (CD) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS; Escherichia coli 055:B5)‐induced endotoxin‐poisoned mice and clarify the underlying mechanisms. The mice were administrated CD 5 d before 15 mg/kg LPS challenge. 12 hr later, thymus was separated for determination of thymus indexes. Lung and spleen tissues were collected for histologic examination and the wet/dry weight ratio of lung was calculated, and serum was acquired for tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐18, and IL‐1β measurement. Moreover, the expression of NOD‐like receptor (NLR) family, pyrin domain‐containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome was determined in lung. CD increased the thymus indexes and decreased lung wet/dry weight ratio. In addition, CD improved the lung and spleen histopathological changes induced by LPS and decreased the number of neutrophils in lung tissues. CD also inhibited the pro‐inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐18, and IL‐1β) production in serum. Furthermore, CD suppressed the LPS‐induced NLRP3, Caspase‐1, and IL‐1β mRNA expression in lung, as well as the expression of NLRP3 and Caspase‐1 (p20) protein. CD may have protective effects in endotoxin‐poisoned mice via inhibiting the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, and can be considered as a potential therapeutic candidate for diseases involved in endotoxin poisoning such as sepsis.
Mechanisms of urodele limb regeneration
Authors: Stocum David L.
Published: October 2017

This review explores the historical and current state of our knowledge about urodele limb regeneration. Topics discussed are (1) blastema formation by the proteolytic histolysis of limb tissues to release resident stem cells and mononucleate cells that undergo dedifferentiation, cell cycle entry and accumulation under the apical epidermal cap. (2) The origin, phenotypic memory, and positional memory of blastema cells. (3) The role played by macrophages in the early events of regeneration. (4) The role of neural and AEC factors and interaction between blastema cells in mitosis and distalization. (5) Models of pattern formation based on the results of axial reversal experiments, experiments on the regeneration of half and double half limbs, and experiments using retinoic acid to alter positional identity of blastema cells. (6) Possible mechanisms of distalization during normal and intercalary regeneration. (7) Is pattern formation is a self‐organizing property of the blastema or dictated by chemical signals from adjacent tissues? (8) What is the future for regenerating a human limb?
Limb regeneration in a direct‐developing terrestrial salamander, Bolitoglossa ramosi (Caudata: Plethodontidae)
Authors: Arenas Gómez Claudia Marcela , Gómez Molina Andrea , Zapata Juliana D. , Delgado Jean Paul
Published: October 2017

Appendage regeneration is one of the most compelling phenomena in regenerative biology and is extensively studied in axolotls and newts. However, the regenerative capacity in other families of salamanders remains poorly described. Here we characterize the limb regeneration process in Bolitoglossa ramosi, a direct‐developing terrestrial salamander of the plethodontid family. We (1) describe the major morphological features at different stages of limb regeneration, (2) show that appendage regeneration in a terrestrial salamander varies from other amphibians and (3) show that limb regeneration in this species is considerably slower than in axolotls and newts (95 days post‐amputation for complete regeneration) despite having a significantly smaller genome size than axolotls or newts.
Mechanisms of human cytomegalovirus infection with a focus on epidermal growth factor receptor interactions
Authors: Falcão Aline Semblano Carreira , da Costa Vasconcelos Pedro Fernando , Lobato da Silva Dorotéa de Fátima , Viana Pinheiro João de Jesus , Falcão Luiz Fábio Magno , Quaresma Juarez Antonio Simões
Published: October 2017

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a widespread opportunistic herpesvirus that causes severe diseases in immunocompromised individuals. It has a high prevalence worldwide that is linked with socioeconomic factors. Similar to other herpesviruses, HCMV has the ability to establish lifelong persistence and latent infection following primary exposure. HCMV infects a broad range of cell types. This broad tropism suggests that it may use multiple receptors for host cell entry. The identification of receptors used by HCMV is essential for understanding viral pathogenesis, because these receptors mediate the early events necessary for infection. Many cell surface components have been identified as virus receptors, such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is characterized by tyrosine kinase activity and plays a crucial role in the control of key cellular transduction pathways. EGFR is essential for HCMV binding, signaling, and host cell entry. This review focuses on HCMV infection via EGFR on different cell types and its implications for the cellular environment, viral persistence, and infection.