bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photodynamic therapy: Promoting in vitro efficacy of photodynamic therapy by liposomal formulations of a photosensitizing agent
Authors: Rizvi Imran , Obaid Girgis , Bano Shazia , Hasan Tayyaba , Kessel David
Published: March 2018

Objective

A relatively low level of lysosomal photodamage has been shown capable of promoting the efficacy of photodamage simultaneously or subsequently directed to mitochondrial/ER sites. The procedure has hitherto involved the use of two photosensitizing agents that require irradiation at two different wavelengths and different formulation techniques. This, together with different pharmacokinetic profiles of the photosensitizers, adds a layer of complexity to a protocol that we have sought to circumvent. In this study, liposomal formulations were used to direct photodamage created by benzoporphyrin derivative (BPD, Verteporfin) to lysosomes, mitochondria and the ER. This resulted in the development of an optimal targeting profile using a single agent and a single wavelength of activating irradiation.

Materials/Methods

These studies were carried out in monolayer cultures of OVCAR5 tumor cells. BPD localization was modified by lipid anchoring and formulation in liposomes, and was assessed by fluorescence microscopy. Irradiation was carried out at 690 ± 10 nm with photodamage assessed also using fluorescent probes and microscopy.

Results

BPD normally localizes in a wide variety of sub‐cellular loci that include both mitochondria and the ER, but lysosomes are spared from photodamage. Using a liposomal formulation containing BPD anchored to a lipid resulted in the targeting of lysosomes. A mixture of liposomes containing “free” and “anchored” BPD was shown to significantly promote photokilling. Eliminating cholesterol from the formulation of the anchored product enhanced lysosomal photodamage; prior studies had revealed that excess cholesterol can have a cytoprotective effect when lysosomes are the PDT target.

Discussion

The ability of a liposomal formulation to change localization patterns permits directing photodynamic therapy toward specific sub‐cellular loci, thereby promoting photokilling. Incorporating chemotherapeutic agents into such formulations could represent a logical next step in assessing the ability of directed photodamage to enhance tumor eradication. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:499–505, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Glycidyl Triazolyl Polymers: Poly(ethylene glycol) Derivatives Functionalized by Azide–Alkyne Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Ikeda Taichi
Published: March 2018

Glycidyl triazolyl polymer (GTP), which is the product of the Huisgen dipolar cycloaddition reaction between glycidyl azide polymer and alkyne derivatives, is featured here. GTP is the multifunctionalized poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). The drawback of PEG is that linear PEG has the functional group only at both ends. The low loading capability of the functional groups limits the possibilities of PEG applications. GTP facilitates the synthesis of multifunctionalized PEG derivatives. In this article, 74 examples of GTP homopolymers and copolymers are introduced. The synthetic protocols and work‐up processes of GTP are summarized. In addition, application studies are reviewed: for example, stimuli‐responsive and self‐healing materials, materials for electrical memory devices, ion‐conductive materials, and biomedical materials. Finally, some issues on GTP synthesis and future directions for GTP‐based polymer materials are proposed.
Associations between expression levels of nucleotide excision repair proteins in lymphoblastoid cells and risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Authors: Han Peng , Liu Hongliang , Shi Qiong , Liu Zhensheng , Troy Jesse D. , Lee Walter T. , Zevallos Jose P. , Li Guojun , Sturgis Erich M. , Wei Qingyi
Published: March 2018

Squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck (SCCHN) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, and nucleotide excision repair (NER) is involved in SCCHN susceptibility. In this analysis of 349 newly diagnosed SCCHN patients and 295 cancer‐free controls, we investigated whether expression levels of eight core NER proteins were associated with risk of SCCHN. We quantified NER protein expression levels in cultured peripheral lymphocytes using a reverse‐phase protein microarray. Compared with the controls, SCCHN patients had statistically significantly lower expression levels of ERCC3 and XPA (P = 0.001 and 0.001, respectively). After dividing the subjects by controls’ median values of expression levels, we found a dose‐dependent association between an increased risk of SCCHN and low expression levels of ERCC3 (adjusted OR, 1.75, and 95% CI: 1.26‐2.42; Ptrend = 0.008) and XPA (adjusted OR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.35‐2.60; Ptrend = 0.001). We also identified a significant multiplicative interaction between smoking status and ERCC3 expression levels (P = 0.014). Finally, after integrating demographic and clinical variables, we found that the addition of ERCC3 and XPA expression levels to the model significantly improved the sensitivity of the expanded model on SCCHN risk. In conclusion, reduced protein expression levels of ERCC3 and XPA were associated with an increased risk of SCCHN. However, these results need to be confirmed in additional large studies.
Multi‐omics analysis identifies pathways and genes involved in diffuse‐type gastric carcinogenesis induced by E‐cadherin, p53, and Smad4 loss in mice
Authors: Park Jun Won , Kim Min‐Sik , Voon Dominic C. , Kim Su‐Jin , Bae Jingi , Mun Dong‐Gi , Ko Seung‐Ik , Kim Hark K. , Lee Sang‐Won , Kim Dae‐Yong
Published: March 2018

The molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of diffuse‐type gastric cancer (DGC) have not been adequately explored due to a scarcity of appropriate animal models. A recently developed tool well suited for this line of investigation is the Pdx‐1‐Cre;Cdh1F/+;Trp53F/F;Smad4F/F (pChePS) mouse model that spontaneously develops metastatic DGC showing nearly complete E‐cadherin loss. Here, we performed a proteogenomic analysis to uncover the molecular changes induced by the concurrent targeting of E‐cadherin, p53, and Smad4 loss. The gene expression profiles of mouse DGCs and in vivo gastric phenotypes from various combinations of gene knockout demonstrated that these mutations collaborate to activate cancer‐associated pathways to generate aggressive DGC. Of note, WNT‐mediated epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and extracellular matrix (ECM)‐cytokine receptor interactions were prominently featured. In particular, the WNT target gene osteopontin (OPN) that functions as an ECM cytokine is highly upregulated. In validation experiments, OPN contributed to DGC stemness by promoting cancer stem cell (CSC) survival and chemoresistance. It was further found that Bcl‐xL acts as a targetable downstream effector of OPN in DGC CSC survival. In addition, Zeb2 and thymosin‐β4 (Tβ4) were identified as prime candidates as suppressors of E‐cadherin expression from the remaining Cdh1 allele during DGC development. Specifically, Tβ4 suppressed E‐cadherin expression and anoikis while promoting cancer cell growth and migration. Collectively, these proteogenomic analyses broaden and deepen our understanding of the contribution of key driver mutations in the stepwise carcinogenesis of DGC through novel effectors, namely OPN and Tβ4.
Potential lymphangiogenesis therapies: Learning from current antiangiogenesis therapies—A review
Authors: Yamakawa Michael , Doh Susan J. , Santosa Samuel M. , Montana Mario , Qin Ellen C. , Kong Hyunjoon , Han Kyu‐Yeon , Yu Charles , Rosenblatt Mark I. , Kazlauskas Andrius , Chang Jin‐Hong , Azar Dimitri T.
Published: March 2018

In recent years, lymphangiogenesis, the process of lymphatic vessel formation from existing lymph vessels, has been demonstrated to have a significant role in diverse pathologies, including cancer metastasis, organ graft rejection, and lymphedema. Our understanding of the mechanisms of lymphangiogenesis has advanced on the heels of studies demonstrating vascular endothelial growth factor C as a central pro‐lymphangiogenic regulator and others identifying multiple lymphatic endothelial biomarkers. Despite these breakthroughs and a growing appreciation of the signaling events that govern the lymphangiogenic process, there are no FDA‐approved drugs that target lymphangiogenesis. In this review, we reflect on the lessons available from the development of antiangiogenic therapies (26 FDA‐approved drugs to date), review current lymphangiogenesis research including nanotechnology in therapeutic drug delivery and imaging, and discuss molecules in the lymphangiogenic pathway that are promising therapeutic targets.
Time‐of‐flight MR‐angiography with a helical trajectory and slice‐super‐resolution reconstruction
Authors: Okanovic Melisa , Hillig Burghard , Breuer Felix , Jakob Peter , Blaimer Martin
Published: March 2018

Purpose

To improve 2D noncontrast‐enhanced MRA by using a helical time‐of‐flight (TOF) acquisition technique and a slice‐super‐resolution reconstruction.

Methods

The TOF technique is combined with a helical trajectory with golden‐angle–based radial projection reordering. A continuous spatial shift in slice direction is realized by adjusting the frequency of the excitation pulse between the individual projections. The limited resolution along the shift direction is improved by a deconvolution with simulated slice profile. The helical TOF (hTOF) was compared in vivo with a conventional 2D and 3D TOF.

Results

Results from in vivo experiments on the carotid show that the visual resolution in slice direction can be improved by using hTOF and the slice‐super‐resolution reconstruction. The vessels appear up to 1.5 times sharper and can be better separated from each other. Compared to 2D TOF images, the stair step artifacts are strongly reduced in reformatted hTOF images, whereas measurement time is decreased by at least 35%. Compared to 3D TOF, the hTOF offers a higher blood‐to‐background contrast, better visualization of smaller vessels, and reduced measurement time.

Conclusion

The hTOF benefits from a 2D acquisition and a 3D reconstruction, which makes it a promising technique for the noncontrast‐enhanced imaging of the carotid.
Risk factors for surgical site infection after transvaginal mesh placement in a nationwide Japanese cohort
Authors: Kamei Jun , Yazawa Satoshi , Yamamoto Shingo , Kaburaki Naoto , Takahashi Satoru , Takeyama Masami , Koyama Masayasu , Homma Yukio , Arakawa Soichi , Kiyota Hiroshi
Published: March 2018

Aims

We conducted a nationwide survey on perioperative management and antimicrobial prophylaxis of transvaginal mesh surgeries for pelvic organ prolapse in Japan to understand the practice and risk factors for surgical site infection (SSI).

Methods

Health records of women undergoing tension‐free vaginal mesh (TVM) surgeries from 2010 to 2012 were obtained from 135 medical centers belonging to the Japanese Society of Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery. The questionnaire addressed hospital volume, perioperative management, and SSI. Risk factors for SSI were investigated by comparing cases with and without SSI.

Results

The hospital volume among institutions varied from 0 to 248 per year (median 16.7). Preoperative hair removal, bowel preparation, and urine culture were routinely performed at 74 (55%), 66 (49%), and 24 (18%) hospitals, respectively. Prophylactic antimicrobials used were mostly first‐generation (43%) or second‐generation (42%) cephalosporin. SSI was reported in 86 of 9323 patients (0.92%). A multivariate analysis indicated lower hospital volume (odds ratio [OR], 0.995 [by 1‐point increase]; P < 0.001), preoperative bowel preparation (OR, 2.08; P = 0.013), non‐routine urine culture (OR, 3.00; P = 0.0006), and the use of antibiotics other than first‐generation cephalosporin (OR, 5.29; P = 0.0011) as significant risk factors for SSI. In contrast, the cut‐off points of hospital volume for preventing SSI was 116.7 cases (area under curve: 0.61).

Conclusion

The prevalence of SSI in TVM surgeries was 0.92% in Japan. Lower hospital volume, bowel preparation, non‐routine preoperative urine culture, and prophylactic antibiotics other than first‐generation cephalosporin significantly elevated the incidence of SSI.
Ill‐conditioning in the virtual element method: Stabilizations and bases
Authors: Mascotto Lorenzo
Published: March 2018

In this article, we investigate the behavior of the condition number of the stiffness matrix resulting from the approximation of a 2D Poisson problem by means of the virtual element method. It turns out that ill‐conditioning appears when considering high‐order methods or in presence of “bad‐shaped” (for instance nonuniformly star‐shaped, with small edges…) sequences of polygons. We show that in order to improve such condition number one can modify the definition of the internal moments by choosing proper polynomial functions that are not the standard monomials. We also give numerical evidence that at least for a 2D problem, standard choices for the stabilization give similar results in terms of condition number.
Size diversity in Swiss Bronze Age cattle
Authors: Bopp‐Ito M. , Deschler‐Erb S. , Vach W. , Schibler J.
Published: March 2018

To date, osteometric data for Swiss Bronze Age cattle, particularly from Alpine sites, are scarce. In the present study, using a large dataset generated by combining preexisting data with recent data obtained from a large Alpine site, cattle size from the Late Neolithic to the Late Bronze Age (LBA) in populations from different sites and regions was evaluated using the logarithmic size index and other statistical analysis. Additionally, the finite mixture model and a meta‐analytic technique were used to observe possible effects of sex ratios on cattle size. Results indicated that sex ratios did not affect size distribution. Cattle populations did not differ over time, but the Alpine cattle were smaller than the Central Plateau cattle. There were two distinct sizes in the Alpine cattle populations. It is suggested that the different economic interrelationships between Alpine and other geographically related communities might have led to the emergence of size diversity in Swiss Bronze Age cattle. Further interdisciplinary studies with larger sample sizes are required to confirm these possibilities.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis mimicking molluscum contagiosum: A case series
Authors: Fernández Armenteros José Manuel , Arco Huguet Nuria , Sanmartin Novell Veronica , Vilardell Villellas Felip , Velasco Sanchez Ana , Martró Català Elisa , Martí Laborda Rosa Maria , Soria Gili Xavier
Published: March 2018

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a disorder characterized by accumulation of Langerhans‐like cells in one or various organs. A correct staging work‐up is essential since there are multiorgan presentations with a poor prognosis. We report three patients with LCH skin lesions mimicking molluscum contagiosum in association with both high and low risk organ involvement. This peculiar cutaneous presentation can be a clue for the diagnosis of LCH, a disease with potentially severe systemic involvement.
Fracture behavior characterization of arcan polycaprolactone based polymer composites prepared by polymerization induced phases separation
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Gao Ziyao , Zhang Qian , Khattab Ahmed , Li Guoqiang
Published: March 2018

Polycaprolactone (PCL) based polymer composites have several potential engineering applications. This study investigated the fracture toughness of polycaprolactone based polymer composites under mode I, mode II, and mixed mode I&II, according to the use of Arcan composite specimens. The specimen was prepared through a polymerization‐induced phase separation (PIPS) process by diffusing polycaprolactone within an epoxy matrix. The thermal properties and morphology of the specimen fracture surfaces were characterized firstly. After that shape memory performance of the prepared specimen was preliminarily studied by measuring the recovered strain and stress. Specimens were tested under compression according to ASTM D6641. Arcan specimens used in this study for studying the fracture behavior under different fracture modes were prepared using a Waterject. The effect of loading angles on the fracture behavior was investigated as well. The results show that Arcan specimen has advantages on studying the fracture behavior of polycaprolactone based polymer composite under different fracture modes. It found that the average size decreases as the amount of PCL increasing. The globules are uniformly distributed across the fracture surfaces. The shape memory test shows that the larger programmed strain the larger recovered stress. In addition, the increase of PCL amount leads to the decrease of composite KIC but the increase of KIIC (i.e., improved shear resistance). We envision application of the developed Arcan test fixture as a testing device to exam the crack healing efficiency under different fracture modes. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1198–1208, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Prenatal and postnatal evolution of isolated fetal splenic cysts
Authors: Sauvageot Camille , Faure Jean‐Michel , Mousty Eve , Flandrin Anaïg , Forgues Dominique , Prodhomme Olivier , Fuchs Florent
Published: March 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence, the prenatal, and postnatal evolution of isolated fetal splenic cysts.

Methods

All cases of suspected fetal splenic cyst or abdominal unidentified cyst discovered during routine ultrasound scan, from 2007 to 2017, and referred to a French tertiary care center, were retrospectively collected. For each case, several prenatal parameters and postnatal evolution were reported.

Results

Among 5450 cases of fetal anomalies, 14 patients (0.3%) had a prenatal diagnosis of fetal splenic cysts. Median gestational age at diagnosis was 30.1 weeks. A unique cyst was present in 78.6%, whereas 2 cysts were observed in 14.3% and 3 cysts in 7.1%. During the pregnancy, cysts remained the same (78.6%) or disappeared (21.4%). Ultrasound scans at 6 months of age found total disappearance of the cysts (36.4%), spontaneous reduction from 2 to 1 cyst (18.2%) or persistence of the cysts (45.4%).

Conclusion

Fetal splenic cysts are rare images, always isolated, usually unique and mainly found during third trimester of pregnancy. Their evolution is to disappear spontaneously during pregnancy or at 6 months of age leaving only half of them to remain beyond that age but without any symptoms.
Polymeric nanospheres with tunable sizes, water dispersibility, and thermostability from heating‐enabled micellization of polysulfone‐block‐polyethylene glycol
Authors: Zhang Zexian , Li Jie , Wang Zhaogen , He Changcheng , Wang Yong
Published: March 2018

Polymeric nanospheres with uniform sizes, functional surfaces, and high mechanical strength and thermostability are attracting wide interest in different applications. Here, a new kind of polysulfone micellar spheres with PEGylated surfaces is prepared via directly heating the solution of an amphiphilic block copolymer, polysulfone‐b‐polyethylene glycol (PSF‐b‐PEG). The sizes of the micelles are uniform and tunable between ∼42 and ∼443 nm. TEM characterizations show that the micelles are core‐shell structures with PEG as the corona and PSF as the core. PEG endows the micelles with dispersibility in water and good biocompatibility, while PSF provides the mechanical strength and thermostability. The effects of PEG contents, polymer solution concentrations, solvent types, and heating temperatures are systematically investigated. Furthermore, heat resistance tests show that the micelles are stable at 150–180 °C. These PSF‐b‐PEG micellar spheres are expected to be applied in demanding environmental conditions such as heating involved surface modification process. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 769–777
Identifying the effect of aromatic oil on the individual component dynamics of S‐SBR/BR blends by broadband dielectric spectroscopy
Authors: Rathi Akansha , Hernández Marianella , Garcia Santiago J. , Dierkes Wilma K. , Noordermeer Jacques W. M. , Bergmann Cristina , Trimbach Jürgen , Blume Anke
Published: March 2018

Miscible S‐SBR (solution styrene–butadiene copolymer)/BR (polybutadiene homopolymer) blends are used in multiple applications like modern passenger car tire treads. Despite their miscibility, there is a problem to predict tire performance due to dynamical heterogeneities present in the S‐SBR/BR blends. On the one hand, S‐SBR/BR blends have a thermorheologically complex behavior, which complicates the prediction of the temperature‐ and frequency‐dependence of material properties. On the other hand, due to differences in the polarity of the individual components, the extender oils used in the elastomeric compounds could distribute unequally within the blends, where little is known about how oils interact with the two polymers. In this work a combination of Differential Scanning Calorimetry, Dynamic Mechanical Analysis, and Broadband Dielectric Spectroscopy (BDS) is used to clarify: (i) the thermorheological complexity of S‐SBR/BR blends, (ii) the effect of the extender oil on the blend. The broad frequency operation of BDS allows for the analysis of the S‐SBR and BR component dynamics and the effect of the oil on each of them within an S‐SBR/BR (50/50) blend. Based on the discretization of individual component dynamics in the blend, conclusive remarks are made on the effect of the extender oil for either component in the blend. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 842–854
Sexual and romantic challenges among young Danes diagnosed with cancer: Results from a cross‐sectional nationwide questionnaire study
Authors: Graugaard Christian , Sperling Cecilie Dyg , Hølge‐Hazelton Bibi , Boisen Kirsten A. , Petersen Gitte Stentebjerg
Published: March 2018

Objective

The negative impact of malignant disease on sexual and relational functioning is well documented among adults but scarcely investigated among adolescents and young adults. This study explored the body image, self‐perceived attractiveness, and sexual/romantic experiences of Danes diagnosed with cancer at the age of 15 to 29 years. It also aimed to clarify whether self‐perceived needs for counseling were in fact met by health care providers.

Methods

All Danes who had been diagnosed with cancer at the age of 15 to 29 years during the period 2009 to 2013 were included in a cross‐sectional nationwide questionnaire study. Eight hundred twenty‐two questionnaires were returned, yielding a response rate of 45%.

Results

More than half of the respondents (53.8%) reported that cancer had altered their body image negatively, while 44.6% felt that disease had lowered their feeling of being attractive. Nearly one‐third (31.3%) and one‐fourth (23.6%), respectively, had experienced a negative impact on their desire to have sex or to flirt/date/have a partner. Female responders were more affected than males on most variables, and breast cancer patients were approximately 4 times more at risk for sexual and romantic adversities than patients with melanoma of the skin. Although more than 80% indicated a need to discuss issues of sexuality and intimacy with a health professional, 49.5% and 61.7%, respectively, had talked little or not at all with professionals during hospitalization and follow‐up consultations.

Conclusions

Young cancer patients experience sexual and romantic challenges along with a lack of self‐perceived attractiveness. Their substantial need for dialogue and counselling should be met in health care settings.
An exploratory study of social problems experienced by ambulatory cancer patients in Japan: Frequency and association with perceived need for help
Authors: Hisamura Kazuho , Matsushima Eisuke , Tsukayama Syouichi , Murakami Shinya , Motoo Yoshiharu
Published: March 2018

Objective

Little is known about the social problems experienced by cancer patients in non‐Western countries. The aims of this study were (1) to explore the characteristics and frequencies of social problems in cancer outpatients, as well as their associations with the need for help, and (2) to take the initial steps to develop an instrument for the assessment of cancer‐related social problems in Japan.

Methods

A cross‐sectional group of 109 patients completed the Social Problem Checklist and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C30. Participants rated the levels of the problem severity and the need for help on each item. Factor structure, internal consistency, and construct validity were also assessed.

Results

In total, 72.5% of the participants encountered ≥1 problem, and 33% experienced ≥1 serious problem. The amount of help needed tended to be lower than problem severity, especially for family and social life issues. The most common reason for not needing help, as reported by approximately 40% of patients who experienced problems, was the preference for self‐management. A 3‐factor model was extracted that included financial matters, medical information, and family and social life. Excellent internal consistencies for each factor and convergent correlations between the relevant subscales of European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 and Social Problem Checklist were confirmed.

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of participants had cancer‐related social problems, but they had ambivalent help‐related needs. Interventions that enhance the patient's abilities for self‐care could be essential to help cancer outpatients manage social problems in Japan.
Environmental controls on ground temperature and permafrost in Labrador, northeast Canada
Authors: Way Robert G. , Lewkowicz Antoni G.
Published: March 2018

Field data from 83 environmental monitoring stations across Labrador, 17 with permafrost, were used to analyze the interrelationships of key variables considered in the temperature at the top of permafrost model. Snow depth, not mean annual air temperature, was the strongest climatic determinant of mean temperatures at the ground surface and at the base of the annual freeze–thaw layer, and its variability was most closely related to land cover class. A critical late‐winter snow depth of 70 cm or more was inferred to be sufficient to prevent the formation of permafrost at the monitoring sites, which meant that permafrost was absent beneath forest but present in some tundra, peatland and bedrock locations. Analyses showed no statistically significant relations identified between topographic indices and various station parameters, challenging their utility for regional modeling. Testing of several different land cover datasets for model parameterization gave errors in ground surface temperature ranging from ± 0.9 to 2.1°C. These results highlight the importance of local field data and emphasize the necessity of high‐quality national‐scale land cover datasets suitable for permafrost modeling.
Evaluation of allyl isothiocyanate as a soil fumigant against soil‐borne diseases in commercial tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) production in China
Authors: Ren Zongjie , Li Yuan , Fang Wensheng , Yan Dongdong , Huang Bin , Zhu Jiahong , Wang Xiaoning , Wang Xianli , Wang Qiuxia , Guo Meixia , Cao Aocheng
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Root‐knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.), soil‐borne diseases and weeds seriously reduce the commercial yield of tomatoes grown under protected cultivation in China. Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a natural product obtained from damaged Brassica tissues, was evaluated as a potential replacement for the fumigant methyl bromide (MB) for use in the greenhouse production of tomatoes in China.

RESULTS

The dose–response assay indicates that AITC has high biological activity against major bacterial and fungal pathogens (EC50 of 0.225–4.199 mg L−1). The bioassay results indicate that AITC has good efficacy against root‐knot nematodes (LC50 of 18.046 mg kg−1), and moderate efficacy against fungal pathogens (LC50 of 27.999–29.497 mg kg−1) and weeds (LC50 of 17.300–47.660 mg kg−1). The potting test indicates that AITC significantly improved plant vigor. Field trials indicate that AITC showed good efficacy against Meloidogyne spp. and Fusarium spp. (both ∼ 80%) as well as Phytophthora spp. and Pythium spp. (both ∼ 70%), and improved plant vigor and marketable yield.

CONCLUSION

AITC used as a soil fumigant (30–50 g m−2) effectively controlled major bacterial and fungal pathogens, root‐knot nematode, weeds and increased plant vigor, yield and farmers' income in tomato cultivated under protected agriculture in China. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Growth‐Parameter Dependence of Polarity and Electronic Transports in ZnO Thin Films Deposited by Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Ohsawa Takeo , Tsunoda Kei , Dierre Benjamin , Grachev Sergey , Montigaud Hervé , Ishigaki Takamasa , Ohashi Naoki
Published: March 2018

Growth‐parameter dependence of crystalline polarity and associated electronic transport properties of zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films deposited by radio‐frequency magnetron sputtering are investigated. The magnitudes of sputtering input power and distance between the substrate and ZnO target play crucial roles in controlling the polarity either the (0001) or planes. In addition, the crystallinities and surface morphologies of the films are largely different between the two types of planes. Remarkably, electrical conductivities of the (0001) films are a few orders of magnitude higher than those of the planes, which could be attributed to differences in the carrier concentration and Hall mobility. Insights gained in this study regarding controllable polarity is significant for understanding complicated optoelectronic properties even in nominally undoped ZnO films.
Integrating total oxidizable precursor assay data to evaluate fate and transport of PFASs
Authors: Casson Rachael , Chiang Sheau‐Yun (Dora)
Published: March 2018

Fate and transport of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are complex and are not well understood. Among this class of emerging contaminants, perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) comprising perfluoroalkyl carboxylates (PFCAs) and perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFSAs) are being studied more frequently than polyfluorinated compounds. PFAAs are persistent in the environment, recalcitrant to biological degradation, and, therefore, widespread. Previous studies have indicated that some PFASs bioaccumulate. The fate and transport of PFAAs can be complicated by the presence of PFAA precursors. The PFAA precursors are defined in this article as those fluorinated chemicals that can be potentially transformed abiotically or biotically into terminal PFCA or PFSA products. Due to potential biotransformation in the environment, PFAA precursors can influence the temporal and lateral distribution of PFAAs in the environment. Presently, only a very small number of PFAA precursors can be quantitatively analyzed by commercial laboratories. For instance, N‐ethyl perfluorooctanesulfonamidoacetic acid and N‐methyl perfluorooctanesulfonamidoacetic acid are the only two precursors included in the most commonly applied PFAS analytical method, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Method 537. The current commercial laboratory methodologies primarily quantify between 14 and 31 PFASs. As an alternative, a total oxidizable precursor assay (TOPA) was developed to quantify the measurable PFSA and PFCA concentrations after aggressive oxidation converting PFAA precursors abiotically into PFCAs. The difference between PFAA concentrations before and after oxidation can be used to estimate the amount of oxidizable PFAA precursors in the sample. This is one of the first articles that utilized TOPA data to help interpret PFAS fate and transport in the environment.
Occurrence and behavior of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances from aqueous film‐forming foam in groundwater systems
Authors: Hatton Jim , Holton Chase , DiGuiseppi Bill
Published: March 2018

Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are fluorinated compounds and the active ingredient in aqueous film‐forming foam (AFFF). AFFF has been identified as a significant source of PFAS contamination in groundwater. PFAS are also present in many other industrial and consumer products and their manufacture and use has led to numerous contaminated sites. Human health risks have been identified with studies linking firefighter cancers to training facilities where AFFF was used. Given the widespread release of these compounds to the environment and their potential health risks, understanding their mobility characteristics is important. This article details the occurrence and behavior of these substances in groundwater systems to help guide the emerging fields of PFAS investigation and remediation. Background is presented on AFFF and PFAS source characteristics, including common industrial and consumer PFAS sources. In addition, chemical properties, sorption and retention parameters, and observed transformation properties of PFAS and related compounds are discussed. Finally, knowledge gaps are identified for future laboratory and field studies.
Precursors of Nerve Chemical Warfare Agents with Industrial Relevance: Characteristics and Significance for Chemical Security
Authors: Quagliano Javier , Witkiewicz Zygfryd , Sliwka Ewa , Neffe Slawomir
Published: March 2018

Precursors of nerve chemical warfare agents were reviewed, considering their importance in industry and consequently the potential impact on chemical security. Physico‐chemical properties of main precursors were evaluated, while main commercial uses were summarized. Toxic properties of precursors were considered in comparison to chemical warfare agents. Some information concerning nerve agentsand their simulants is also given.
Helically Structured Peptide Architecture Engineered Using Dimedone as a Rigid Organic Scaffold
Authors: Nadimpally Krishna C. , Madica Krishnaprasad , Kotmale Amol S. , Gonnade Rajesh G. , Sanjayan Gangadhar J.
Published: March 2018

This communication reports the use of a rigid organic scaffold to attach two unsymmetrical peptide chains on a single carbon atom. The approach describes the step‐by‐step attachment of peptide chains to the rigid dimedone template (5,5‐dimethyl‐1,3‐cyclohexanedione) – a molecular scaffold that directs orientation of the peptide helices in a well‐defined arrangement via intra‐molecular hydrogen bonding. The overall topology of the final molecules was studied using CD spectroscopy which suggested existence of helical architecture.
Development of Acridine‐Derived “Turn On” Al3+ Fluorescent Sensors and Their Imaging in Living Cells
Authors: Wang Chaoyu , Fu Jiaxin , Yao Kun , Chang Yongxin , Yang Li , Xu Kuoxi
Published: March 2018

Two novel highly selective fluorescent sensors L‐1 and L‐2 for the determination of Al3+ ion were synthesized and characterized. The sensors acridine‐4,5‐diylbismethyl(bis(oxy))bis(2,1‐phenylene))bis‐(methylene))bis(azanediyl))bis(3‐phenylpropan‐1‐ol) (L‐1) and 2,2′‐acridine‐4,5‐diylbis(methylene(bis(oxy))bis(2,1‐phenylene))bis‐(methylene))bis(azanediyl))bis(propan‐1‐ol) (L‐2) showed “turn on” fluorescence response in the presence of Al3+ ion in DMSO/tris‐HCl (1:1, v:v, pH=7.2) buffer solution. Other cations viz. Li+, Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Fe2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cd2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Mn2+, Ba2+, Pb2+, Hg2+, Fe3+ and Eu3+ ions showed no appreciable change in fluorescence spectrum. The detection limits of L‐1 and L‐2 for Al3+ ion were at the parts per billion level. In addition, possible utilization of sensors as bio‐imaging fluorescent sensors to detect Al3+ in human cervical HeLa cells was also investigated by confocal fluorescence microscopy.
Multistimuli Responsive Supramolecular Polymeric Nanoparticles Formed by Calixpyridinium and Chondroitin 4‐Sulfate
Authors: Wang Kui , Ren Xiao‐Wei , Cui Jian‐Hua , Guo Jia‐Shuang , Xing Si‐Yang , Dou Hong‐Xi , Wang Meng‐Meng
Published: March 2018

We have successfully constructed multistimuli responsive supramolecular polymeric nanoparticles based on the complexation of calixpyridinium with polyanionic chondroitin 4‐sulfate. The nanoparticles are disassembled upon increasing pH from 6 to 9, while a pH‐responsive morphological conversion from spherical nanoparticles to nanorods is observed upon decreasing pH from 6 to 2. Adding a competitive guest can also disrupt the assembly, representing the host–guest inclusion response. Interestingly, an unexpected hyaluronidase‐responsive morphological conversion from spherical nanoparticles to wire‐like suprastructures rather than disassembly is also observed, as a result of the hyaluronidase‐induced cleavage of chondroitin 4‐sulfate. The multistimuli responsive morphological conversion property with various dimensions, along with the facile preparation, will make this supramolecular polymeric assembly approach well‐suitable for a variety of important material applications.
Amplification‐Free Multi‐RNA‐Type Profiling for Cancer Risk Stratification via Alternating Current Electrohydrodynamic Nanomixing
Authors: Koo Kevin M. , Dey Shuvashis , Trau Matt
Published: March 2018

Simultaneous analysis of messenger RNA (mRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)—multi‐RNA‐type profiling—is increasingly crucial in cancer diagnostics. Yet, rapid multi‐RNA‐type profiling is challenging due to enzymatic amplification reliance and RNA‐type‐dependent characteristics. Here, a nanodevice is reported to uniquely use alterable alternating current electrohydrodynamic (ac‐EHD) forces to enhance probe–target hybridization prior to direct native RNA target detection, without target amplification or surface functionalization. To exemplify clinical applicability, noninvasive screening of next‐generation prostate cancer (PCa) RNA biomarkers (of different types) in patient urine samples is performed. A strong correlation between multi‐RNA‐type expression and aggressive PCa is found, and the nanodevice performance is statistically evaluated. It is believed that this miniaturized system exhibits great potential for cancer risk stratification via multi‐RNA‐type profiling.
Electrospun N‐Doped Porous Carbon Nanofibers Incorporated with NiO Nanoparticles as Free‐Standing Film Electrodes for High‐Performance Supercapacitors and CO2 Capture
Authors: Li Qi , Guo Jiangna , Xu Dan , Guo Jianqiang , Ou Xu , Hu Yin , Qi Haojun , Yan Feng
Published: March 2018

Carbon nanofibers (CNF) with a 1D porous structure offer promising support to encapsulate transition‐metal oxides in energy storage/conversion relying on their high specific surface area and pore volume. Here, the preparation of NiO nanoparticle‐dispersed electrospun N‐doped porous CNF (NiO/PCNF) and as free‐standing film electrode for high‐performance electrochemical supercapacitors is reported. Polyacrylonitrile and nickel acetylacetone are selected as precursors of CNF and Ni sources, respectively. Dicyandiamide not only improves the specific surface area and pore volume, but also increases the N‐doping level of PCNF. Benefiting from the synergistic effect between NiO nanoparticles (NPs) and PCNF, the prepared free‐standing NiO/PCNF electrodes show a high specific capacitance of 850 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1 in 6 m KOH aqueous solution, good rate capability, as well as excellent long‐term cycling stability. Moreover, NiO NPs dispersed in PCNF and large specific surface area provide many electroactive sites, leading to high CO2 uptake, and high‐efficiency CO2 electroreduction. The synthesis strategy in this study provides a new insight into the design and fabrication of promising multifunctional materials for high‐performance supercapacitors and CO2 electroreduction.
Effect of ethylene‐1‐butene copolymer on tensile properties and toughness of polypropylene/mica/organoclay hybrid nanocomposites
Authors: Mohammadi Hamed , Moghbeli Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2018

In this study, polypropylene (PP) was reinforced using 1 wt% organically modified‐grafted mica (OMGM) and various levels of Cloisite15A (C15A), 0–3 wt%. For OMGM preparation, polypropylene graft maleic anhydride (PP‐g‐MAH) was grafted onto diacetone acryl amid modified mica. The results showed the highest impact strength enhancement of 68% and Young's modulus of 12% for hybrid nanocomposite containing 1 wt% OMGM and 0.5 wt% C15A when compared to neat PP. In order to considerably improve the impact strength of PP with advantage of elastic modulus enhancement, PP was melt blended with above‐mentioned amounts of OMGM and C15A and different contents of ethylene‐1‐butene copolymer (EBR), 0–10 wt%. The dispersion of low‐ and high‐aspect ratio layered silicate tactoids and EBR nanoparticles in the polymer matrix was studied using transmission electron microscopy. The effect of EBR level on the crystallization behavior, tensile properties, impact strength, and fracture toughness of the resultant toughened hybrid nanocomposite was investigated. The presence of EBR nanoparticles did not show any sufficient effect on the melting and crystallization temperatures of the toughened PP and hybrid nanocomposites. However, the impact results indicated that the addition of EBR to neat PP remarkably increased the toughness while sharply decreased its Young's modulus. The incorporation of 7 wt% EBR in the hybrid nanocomposite containing 1 wt% OMGM and 0.5 wt% C15A considerably enhanced impact strength 119% and 30% in comparison to neat PP and its hybrid nanocomposite, respectively. Additionally, the incorporation of EBR nanoparticle in the presence of the silicate layered nanoparticles prevented significant decreasing in Young's modulus of the matrix. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 25:117–126, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
The effect of particle size of fly ash (FA) on the interfacial interaction and performance of PVC/FA composites
Authors: Khoshnoud Parisa , Abu‐Zahra Nidal
Published: March 2018

In this study, the effect of particle size of fly ash (FA) on the interfacial interaction between the filler particles and the polymer matrix is investigated. Structural and physical characterization of FA with different particle sizes show that its chemical composition is highly dependent on the particle size. The mechanical, dynamic‐mechanical, structural, and microstructural properties of the composites are evaluated. Interfacial interaction between FA particles and the polymer matrix is assessed experimentally using a nanoindenter and numerically using two different models developed by Pukanszky and Kubat. The composites reinforced with smaller particles exhibit better mechanical, viscoelastic, and microstructural properties. Structural and interfacial studies show that, although the characterized amount of silicon oxide in the small particles is lower than the large particles, the concentration of –OH group in SiO2 is particle‐size and surface‐area dependent. Therefore, smaller particle inclusions result in better interfacial interaction and improved properties. This observation is consistent with the numerically estimated interfacial interaction. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 25:134–143, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Classifying rotor‐layer wind to reduce offshore available power uncertainty
Authors: St. Pé Alexandra , Sperling Meredith , Brodie Joseph F. , Delgado Ruben
Published: March 2018

Rotor‐layer wind resource and turbine available power uncertainties prior to wind farm construction may contribute to significant increases in project risk and costs. Such uncertainties exist in part due to limited offshore wind measurements between 40 and 250 m and the lack of empirical methods to describe wind profiles that deviate from a priori, expected power law conditions. In this article, we introduce a novel wind profile classification algorithm that accounts for nonstandard, unexpected profiles that deviate from near power law conditions. Using this algorithm, offshore Doppler wind lidar measurements in the Mid‐Atlantic Bight are classified based on goodness‐of‐fit to several mathematical expressions and relative speed criteria. Results elucidate the limitations of using power law extrapolation methods to approximate average wind profile shape/shear conditions, as only approximately 18% of profiles fit well with this expression, while most consist of unexpected wind shear.  Further, results demonstrate a relationship between classified profile variability and coastal meteorological features, including stability and offshore fetch. Power law profiles persist during unstable conditions and relatively weaker northeasterly flow from water (large fetch), whereas unexpected classified profiles are prevalent during stable conditions and stronger southwesterly flow from land (small fetch). Finally, the magnitude of the discrepancy between hub‐height wind speed and rotor equivalent wind speed available power estimates varies by classified wind‐profile type. During unexpected classified profiles, both a significant overprediction and underprediction of hub‐height wind available power is possible, illustrating the importance of accounting for site‐specific rotor‐layer wind shear when predicting available power.
A Prospective Comparative Study on Improvement of Hyperthyroid Cardiovascular Dysfunction in Patients Undergoing Total Thyroidectomy Versus Medical Management
Authors: Muthukumar S. , Ravikumar K. , Dhalapathy S. , Gomathy T. , Umadevi S. , Maruthupandian D.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Cardiovascular dysfunction (CVD) is a well‐recognized complication in patients with hyperthyroidism and is the major cause of mortality. Very few studies have compared the outcome of CVD following different treatment modalities. In this study we intended to compare treatment modalities (antithyroid drugs vs surgery) for reversal of CVD.

Materials and methods

Patients with newly detected hyperthyroidism were grouped into, Group I [n = 123, age <60 years, undergoing total thyroidectomy], Group II [n = 42, age <60 years, treated with antithyroid medications] were evaluated with 2D echocardiography, serum N terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐pro‐BNP) at the time of diagnosis (Point A), after achieving euthyroidism (Point B) with antithyroid drugs and 6 months after surgery/continuation of antithyroid medications (Point C). Forty patients (Group III), age < 60 years, undergoing total thyroidectomy for nontoxic benign thyroid nodules served as controls.

Results

All groups were age and sex matched. At Point A, CVD was evident in 80/123 (65%) in Group I and 28/42 (66.7%) in Group II. At Point B improvement in CVD occurred in 84/123 (68.3%) in Group and 29/42 (69.04%) in Group II. At Point C dramatic improvement in CVD occurred in 118/123 (95.9%) in Group I, whereas only 33/42 (78.5%) improved in Group II. CVD were comparable between Groups I and II at Point A and Point B (p > 0.05). At Point C there was a significant decrease in all the diastolic dysfunction parameters in Group I, whereas the same was not observed in Group II patients. Systolic dysfunction between Groups II and II had no statistical significance at Point C.

Conclusion

Total thyroidectomy seems to be the definitive treatment of choice for hyperthyroid cardiac dysfunction with diastolic dysfunction completely reversing at 6 months after TT.
Missing Data Mechanisms and Homogeneity of Means and Variances–Covariances
Authors: Yuan Ke-Hai , Jamshidian Mortaza , Kano Yutaka
Published: March 2018

Unless data are missing completely at random (MCAR), proper methodology is crucial for the analysis of incomplete data. Consequently, methods for effectively testing the MCAR mechanism become important, and procedures were developed via testing the homogeneity of means and variances–covariances across the observed patterns (e.g., Kim & Bentler in Psychometrika 67:609–624, 2002; Little in J Am Stat Assoc 83:1198–1202, 1988). The current article shows that the population counterparts of the sample means and covariances of a given pattern of the observed data depend on the underlying structure that generates the data, and the normal-distribution-based maximum likelihood estimates for different patterns of the observed sample can converge to the same values even when data are missing at random or missing not at random, although the values may not equal those of the underlying population distribution. The results imply that statistics developed for testing the homogeneity of means and covariances cannot be safely used for testing the MCAR mechanism even when the population distribution is multivariate normal.