bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Negative Affectivity in Concurrent Relations Between Caregiver Psychological Distress and Social‐Emotional Difficulties in Infants With Early Signs of Autism
Authors: Chetcuti Lacey , Uljarević Mirko , Varcin Kandice J. , Boutrus Maryam , Wan Ming Wai , Slonims Vicky , Green Jonathan , Segal Leonie , Iacono Teresa , Dissanayake Cheryl , Whitehouse Andrew J.O. , Hudry Kristelle ,   the AICES Team
Published: May 2020

Recent evidence suggests the link between caregiver psychological distress and offspring social‐emotional difficulties may be accounted for by offspring temperament characteristics. However, existing studies have only focused on neurotypical children; thus, the current study sought to provide an initial examination of this process among children with varying levels of early autism features. Participants included 103 infants aged 9–16 months (M = 12.39, SD = 1.97; 68% male) and their primary caregiver (96% mothers) referred to a larger study by community healthcare professionals. We utilized caregiver‐reported measures of psychological distress (Depression Anxiety Stress Scales), infant temperament (Infant Behavior Questionnaire‐Revised) and internalizing and externalizing symptoms (Infant‐Toddler Social and Emotional Assessment) and administered the Autism Observation Schedule for Infants (AOSI) at an assessment visit to quantify autism features. Infant negative affectivity was found to mediate positive concurrent relations between caregiver psychological distress and infant internalizing and externalizing symptoms, irrespective of the infants' AOSI score. While preliminary and cross‐sectional, these results replicate and extend previous findings suggesting that the pathway from caregiver psychological distress to negative affectivity to social‐emotional difficulties might also be apparent among infants with varying levels of autism features. More rigorous tests of causal effects await future longitudinal investigation.

Lay Summary

Offspring of caregivers experiencing psychological distress (i.e., symptoms of depression, anxiety, and/or stress) may themselves be at increased risk of poor mental health outcomes. Several previous studies conducted with neurotypical children suggest that this link from caregiver‐to‐child may be facilitated by children's temperament qualities. This study was a preliminary cross‐sectional exploration of these relationships in infants with features of autism. We found that infants' elevated negative emotions were involved in the relation between caregiver heightened psychological distress and children's mental health difficulties, consistent with neurotypical development. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1349–1357. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Highly sensitive HPLC analysis and biophysical characterization of N‐glycans of IgG‐Fc domain in comparison between CHO and 293 cells using FcγRIIIa ligand
Authors: Kosuge Hirofumi , Nagatoishi Satoru , Kiyoshi Masato , Ishii‐Watabe Akiko , Tanaka Toru , Terao Yosuke , Oe Seigo , Ide Teruhiko , Tsumoto Kouhei
Published: May 2020

Quality control of monoclonal antibodies is challenging due in part to the diversity of post‐translational modifications present. The regulation of the N‐glycans of IgG‐Fc domain is one of the key factors to maintain the safety and efficacy of antibody drugs. The FcγRIIIa affinity column is an attractive tool for the precise analysis of the N‐glycans in IgG‐Fc domain. We used the mutant FcγRIIIa, which is produced in Escherichia coli and is therefore not glycosylated, as an affinity reagent to analyze the N‐glycans of monoclonal antibodies expressed in Expi293 and ExpiCHO cells. The monoclonal antibodies expressed in these cells showed very different chromatograms, because of differences in terminal galactose residues on the IgG‐Fc domains. We also carried out kinetic and thermodynamic analyses to understand the interaction between monoclonal antibodies and the mutant FcγRIIIa. Expi293 cell‐derived monoclonal antibodies had higher affinity for the mutant FcγRIIIa than those derived from ExpiCHO cells, due to slower off rates and lower binding entropy loss. Collectively, our results suggest that the FcγRIIIa column can be used to analyze the glycosylation of antibodies rapidly and specifically.
Employment of U‐Shape Technique at Reentry Surgery for Papillae Coronal Migration on the Rehabilitation of Anterior Single Implant: 3‐Year Follow‐Up Case Report
Authors: S. Brum Renata , Galarraga Maria Elisa , Magrin Gabriel , Ruales‐Carrera Edwin , Escobar‐Ramos Mario , Rodriguez‐Ivich Jair , Cardoso Antônio Carlos , Volpato Claudia
Published: May 2020

Introduction

The rehabilitation of a maxillary single dental implant represents a great challenge at clinical practice. Harmony among the implant‐supported crown and adjacent teeth is required in which concerns pink and white esthetics. The aim of the present case report is to depict a multidisciplinary treatment in which the U‐shape flap technique for papillae preservation at second stage surgery was used.

Case Presentation

One female patient presenting an un‐rehabilitated dental implant at the left central incisor position sought treatment at the Centre of Education and Research on Dental Implants (CEPID). Alterations of color, shape, and position were observed on the anterior maxillary teeth. For proper treatment planning, radiograph, wax‐up, and mock‐up were performed. Second stage surgery was performed by the U‐shape flap technique. A trunnion abutment was installed at the implant and a provisional subcontoured cemented crown was manufactured. Dental bleaching, feldspathic veneers, and a ceramic crown were performed. Oral hygiene instructions were recommended. Follow‐up appointments were set at 1.5 and 3 years after restoration placement. After 3‐year follow‐up, soft tissue stability and health were preserved and papillae coronal migration around the single dental implant was observed. A complication‐free treatment was reached, and patient demonstrated satisfaction towards esthetic and function.

Conclusions

The use of U‐shape technique at second stage surgery associated to adequate prosthetic contour improved soft tissue esthetic outcomes, while the multidisciplinary treatment planning provided adequate solutions, refining harmony between dental and implant‐supported components.
STAT1 determines aggressiveness of glioblastoma both in vivo and in vitro through wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway
Authors: Zhao Li , Li Xiangquan , Su Jing , Wang Gong Fenfei , Lu Junjie , Wei Yuzhen
Published: May 2020

Glioblastoma is one of the most malignant tumors and causes the high mortality in cancer patients. Currently, there is no highly efficient therapy against glioblastoma. Therefore, searching for a new molecular target to anti‐glioblastoma therapy is urgent and necessary. In this study, we elucidated the role of Signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) in proliferation, migration and apoptosis of glioblastoma cells. We found that STAT1 downregulation could weaken the aggressiveness of glioblastoma cells. Besides, the glioblastoma growth in vivo was also inhibited with the STAT1 downregulation by shRNA as well as by pharmacological stimulation withSTAT1inhibitors. This negative regulation of tumor growth was accompanied by the inhibition in epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), whereas the STAT1 overexpression promoted EMT. Furthermore, the involvement of wnt/β‐catenin was observed in STAT1 downregulation mediated weakness in glioblastoma aggressiveness since application of activator wnt agonist 1 could counteract the inhibitory effect induced by STAT1 downregulation. Collectively, this work provided the evidence to support the conclusion that STAT1 can regulate the glioblastoma growth and migration, potentially serving as a therapeutic target against glioblastoma.

Significance of the study

Glioblastoma is one of the most malignant tumors with very high mortality. Until now, there is no efficient therapy against glioblastoma. In this study, we found downregulation of Signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) could weaken the aggressiveness of glioblastoma cells through inhibition in epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, mediated through wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway. Thus, this work supported the regulatory role of STAT1 in glioblastoma growth and migration. This potentially serves as a new therapeutic target against glioblastoma.
Study of the effect of operative conditions on the decolourization of azo dye solutions by using hydrodynamic cavitation at the lab scale
Authors: Innocenzi Valentina , Prisciandaro Marina , Vegliò Francesco
Published: May 2020

In the present study, the potentiality of hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) for the degradation of methyl orange from synthetic aqueous solutions is presented. Hydrodynamic cavitation was set up at laboratory scale using a Venturi tube. Solutions of methyl orange (MO) were subjected to cavitation in order to investigate the efficiency and the potential of this technique for azo dye degradation. Moreover, a HC/H2O2/TiO2 hybrid system was tested with the aim to verify its potential positive impact on the decolourization process and define the best conditions, among those investigated, to remove azo dye from synthetic solutions. The results obtained in this study showed that the maximum efficiency was close to 30% using a Venturi tube at an operating pressure of 400 kPa. The presence of additives, such as titanium dioxide and hydrogen peroxide, increased the performance of the degradation process to slightly above 70%.
Pax9's dual roles in modulating Wnt signaling during murine palatogenesis
Authors: Jia Shihai , Zhou Jing , D'Souza Rena N.
Published: May 2020

Background

Despite the strides made in understanding the complex network of key regulatory genes and cellular processes that drive palate morphogenesis, patients suffering from these conditions face treatment options that are limited to complex surgeries and multidisciplinary care throughout life. Hence, a better understanding of how molecular interactions drive palatal growth and fusion is critical for the development of treatment and preventive strategies for cleft palates in humans. Our previous work demonstrated that Pax9‐dependent Wnt signaling is critical for the growth and fusion of palatal shelves. We showed that controlled intravenous delivery of small molecule Wnt agonists specifically blocks the action of Dkks (inhibitors of Wnt signaling) and corrects secondary palatal clefts in Pax9−/− mice. While these data underscore the importance of the functional upstream relationship of Pax9 to the Wnt pathway, not much is known about how the genetic nature of Pax9's interactions in vivo and how it modulates the actions of these downstream effectors during palate formation.

Results

Here, we show that the genetic reduction of Dkk1 during palatogenesis corrected secondary palatal clefts in Pax9−/− mice with restoration of Wnt signaling activities. In contrast, genetically induced overexpression of Dkk1 mice phenocopied the defects in tooth and palate development visible in Pax9−/− strains. Results of ChIP‐qPCR assays showed that Pax9 can bind to regions near the transcription start sites of Dkk1 and Dkk2 as well as the intergenic region of Wnt9b and Wnt3 ligands that are downregulated in Pax9−/− palates.

Conclusions

Taken together, these data suggest that the molecular mechanisms underlying Pax9's role in modulating Wnt signaling activity likely involve the inhibition of Dkk expression and the control of Wnt ligands during palatogenesis.
FGF signaling is required for chemokinesis and ventral migration of trunk neural crest cells
Authors: Dunkel Haley , Chaverra Martha , Bradley Roger , Lefcort Frances
Published: May 2020

Background

Neural crest cells (NCCs) delaminate from the neural tube (NT) and migrate ventrally to generate the trunk peripheral nervous system (PNS). Although several signaling pathways have been identified that steer NCCs once they are on their ventral trajectory, no molecules have been identified that are required for the initial migration between the NT and the dorsal root ganglion. Given the critical role of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling in embryogenesis, we investigated its function in this initial migration.

Results

FGFR1 signaling is required for the migration of newly delaminated NCCs onto the ventral pathway. Live imaging of migrating NCCs revealed that inhibition of FGFR1 signaling caused the dorsally stalled NCCs to lose their dorsal/ventral oriented polarity and instead adopt a rounded morphology while dynamically extending filopodia. FGF8, an FGFR1 ligand, increased motility of NCCs away from the NT by acting chemokinetically. Finally, we provide evidence that inhibition of FGFR1‐mediated chemokinesis is partially rescued by increasing Akt signaling, inhibiting RhoA, and activation of N‐cadherin signaling.

Conclusion

These data support a model in which NCCs are stimulated chemokinetically by FGF:FGFR1 signaling, and that this activation positions and orients NCCs on their ventral migratory route—a process that is essential for patterning the trunk PNS.
A High Capacity and Working Voltage Potassium‐Based Dual Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Meng , Zhong Jiang , Kong Weiqing , Wang Lei , Wang Tao , Fei Huilong , Luo Haiyan , Zhu Jian , Hu Jiawen , Lu Bingan
Published: May 2020

Potassium‐based dual ion batteries (KDIBs) have attracted significant attention owing to high working voltage, high safety, low processing cost, and environmental friendliness. Nevertheless, one great challenge for practical KDIBs is to develop suitable anode materials with high specific capacity. Herein, we report an architecture of hierarchically porous antimony nanoparticles/carbon nanofibers (HPSbCNFs) as flexible, free‐standing anode for high‐performance KDIBs. The HPSbCNFs with hierarchically porous structure, and high‐content nitrogen doping, not only offer sufficient free space to tolerate the repetitive volume expansion of Sb nanoparticles during long‐term cycling, but also greatly facilitate the transport of electrons and ions within electrode, ensuring high material utilization ratio. Thus, the KDIBs, constituted by HPSbCNFs‐700 (calcined at 700 °C) anode and graphite cathode, exhibited a high reversible capacity of 440 mAh g−1with high discharge medium voltage of 4.5 V at a specific current of 200 mA g−1(the highest capacity for all KDIBs normalized by the mass of the anode), and excellent cyclic life. Outstanding electrochemical reversibility of the KDIBs was further demonstrated byex situXRD,ex situRaman spectrum, and HRTEM. These results suggest the as‐designed HPSbCNFs‐700 with high‐capacity and long‐term cycling stability is a promising anode material for high‐performance KDIBs.
Improving exercise capacity and quality of life using non‐invasive heart failure treatments: evidence from clinical trials
Authors: von Haehling Stephan , Arzt Michael , Doehner Wolfram , Edelmann Frank , Evertz Ruben , Ebner Nicole , Herrmann‐Lingen Christoph , Garfias Macedo Tania , Koziolek Michael , Noutsias Michel , Schulze P. Christian , Wachter Rolf , Hasenfuß Gerd , Laufs Ulrich
Published: May 2020

Endpoints of large‐scale trials in chronic heart failure have mostly been defined to evaluate treatments with regard to hospitalizations and mortality. However, patients with heart failure are also affected by very severe reductions in exercise capacity and quality of life. We aimed to evaluate the effects of heart failure treatments on these endpoints using available evidence from randomized trials. Interventions with evidence for improvements in exercise capacity include physical exercise, intravenous iron supplementation in patients with iron deficiency, and – with less certainty – testosterone in highly selected patients. Erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents have been reported to improve exercise capacity in anaemic patients with heart failure. Sinus rhythm may have some advantage when compared with atrial fibrillation, particularly in patients undergoing pulmonary vein isolation. Studies assessing treatments for heart failure co‐morbidities such as sleep‐disordered breathing, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease and depression have reported improvements of exercise capacity and quality of life; however, the available data are limited and not always consistent. The available evidence for positive effects of pharmacologic interventions using angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, beta‐blockers, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists on exercise capacity and quality of life is limited. Studies with ivabradine and with sacubitril/valsartan suggest beneficial effects at improving quality of life; however, the evidence base is limited in particular for exercise capacity. The data for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction are even less positive, only sacubitril/valsartan and spironolactone have shown some effectiveness at improving quality of life. In conclusion, the evidence for state‐of‐the‐art heart failure treatments with regard to exercise capacity and quality of life is limited and appears not robust enough to permit recommendations for heart failure. The treatment of co‐morbidities may be important for these patient‐related outcomes. Additional studies on functional capacity and quality of life in heart failure are required.
Murine iNKT cells are depleted by liver damage via activation of P2RX7
Authors: Bovens Astrid A. , Wesselink Thomas H. , Behr Felix M. , Kragten Natasja A. M. , van Lier René A. W. , van Gisbergen Klaas P. J. M. , Stark Regina
Published: May 2020

Invariant natural killer T cells (iNKT) constitute up to 50% of liver lymphocytes and contribute to immunosurveillance as well as pathogenesis of the liver. Systemic activation of iNKT cells induces acute immune‐mediated liver injury. However, how tissue damage events regulate iNKT cell function and homeostasis remains unclear. We found that specifically tissue‐resident iNKT cells in liver and spleen express the tissue‐damage receptor P2RX7 and the P2RX7‐activating ectoenzyme ARTC2. P2RX7 expression restricted formation of iNKT cells in the liver suggesting that liver iNKT cells are actively restrained under homeostatic conditions. Deliberate activation of P2RX7 in vivo by exogenous NAD resulted in a nearly complete iNKT cell ablation in liver and spleen in a P2RX7‐dependent manner. Tissue damage generated by acetaminophen‐induced liver injury reduced the number of iNKT cells in the liver. The tissue‐damage‐induced iNKT cell depletion was driven by P2RX7 and localized to the site of injury, as iNKT cells in the spleen remained intact. The depleted liver iNKT cells reconstituted only slowly compared to other lymphocytes such as regulatory T cells. These findings suggest that tissue‐damage‐mediated depletion of iNKT cells acts as a feedback mechanism to limit iNKT cell‐induced pathology resulting in the establishment of a tolerogenic environment.
What can we learn from the return predictability over the business cycle?
Authors: Liu Li , Pan Zhiyuan , Wang Yudong
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we forecast stock returns using time‐varying parameter (TVP) models with parameters driven by economic conditions. An in‐sample specification test shows significant variation in the parameters. Out‐of‐sample results suggest that the TVP models outperform their constant coefficient counterparts. We also find significant return predictability from both statistical and economic perspectives with the application of TVP models. The out‐of‐sampleR2of an equal‐weighted combination of TVP models is as high as 2.672%, and the gains in the certainty equivalent return are 214.7 basis points. Further analysis indicates that the improvement in predictability comes from the use of information on economic conditions rather than simply from allowing the coefficients to vary with time.
Variability in retinoblastoma genome stability is driven by age and not heritability
Authors: Polski Ashley , Xu Liya , Prabakar Rishvanth K. , Gai Xiaowu , Kim Jonathan W. , Shah Rachana , Jubran Rima , Kuhn Peter , Cobrinik David , Hicks James , Berry Jesse L.
Published: May 2020

Retinoblastoma (RB) is a childhood intraocular cancer initiated by biallelic inactivation of the RB tumor suppressor gene (RB1−/−). RB can be hereditary (germline RB1 pathogenic allele is present) or non‐hereditary. Somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs) contribute to subsequent tumorigenesis. Previous studies of only enucleated RB eyes have reported associations between heritability status and the prevalence of SCNAs. Herein, we use an aqueous humor (AH) liquid biopsy to investigate RB genomic profiles in the context of germline RB1 status, age, and International Intraocular Retinoblastoma Classification (IIRC) clinical grouping for both enucleated and salvaged eyes. Between 2014 and 2019, AH was sampled from a total of 54 eyes of 50 patients. Germline RB1 status was determined from clinical blood testing, and cell‐free DNA from AH was analyzed for SCNAs. Of the 50 patients, 23 (46.0%; 27 eyes) had hereditary RB, and 27 (54.0%, 27 eyes) had non‐hereditary RB. Median age at diagnosis was comparable between hereditary (13 ± 10 months) and non‐hereditary (13 ± 8 months) eyes (P = 0.818). There was no significant difference in the prevalence or number of SCNAs based on (1) hereditary status (P > 0.56) or (2) IIRC grouping (P > 0.47). There was, however, a significant correlation between patient age at diagnosis, and (1) number of total SCNAs (r[52] = 0.672, P < 0.00001) and (2) number of highly‐recurrent RB SCNAs (r[52] = 0.616, P < 0.00001). This evidence does not support the theory that specific molecular or genomic subtypes exist between hereditary and non‐hereditary RB; rather, the prevalence of genomic alterations in RB eyes is strongly related to patient age at diagnosis.
Gamma‐glutamyl transferase variability and risk of dementia: A nationwide study
Authors: Lee You‐Bin , Han Kyungdo , Park Sanghyun , Kim Seon Mee , Kim Nan Hee , Choi Kyung Mook , Baik Sei Hyun , Park Yong Gyu , Yoo Hye Jin
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Variability in various biomarkers has emerged as a new clinical indicator for diseases including neurodegenerative disorders. Gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT) has a potential to be involved in the pathogenesis of dementia due to its function as a marker of oxidative stress and atherosclerosis. We investigated the association between baseline GGT, GGT variability, and dementia risk for the first time in a large population.

Methods

The Korean National Health Insurance Service datasets of claims and preventive health check‐ups from 2004 to 2016 were used for this retrospective longitudinal study. The risk of incident dementia (all‐cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and vascular dementia) was analyzed according to sex‐specific quartiles of baseline GGT and GGT variability, and groups categorized by baseline GGT and GGT variability in ≥40‐year‐old individuals without baseline dementia (N = 6 046 442; mean follow‐up 6.32 years).

Results

During follow‐up, 166 851 cases of new dementia developed. The fully adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incident dementia increased in the higher quartiles of baseline GGT and GGT variability (HR [95% CI]: Q2, 1.034 [1.019‐1.049]; Q3, 1.090 [1.075‐1.105]; Q4, 1.212 [1.196‐1.229]). The association between GGT variability quartiles and dementia risk remained significant even after adjusting for log‐transformed baseline GGT level. The fully adjusted HRs for dementia was highest in the group with high baseline GGT concentration and the highest GGT variability quartile [HR (95% CI): 1.273 (1.250‐1.296)].

Conclusions

Not only baseline GGT level, but also GGT variability may be an independent predictor of dementia, and might be used for risk stratification for future dementia.
Association of prediagnostic vitamin D status with mortality among colorectal cancer patients differs by common, inherited vitamin D‐binding protein isoforms
Authors: Gibbs David Corley , Bostick Roberd M. , McCullough Marjorie L. , Um Caroline Y. , Flanders W. Dana , Jenab Mazda , Weiderpass Elisabete , Gylling Björn , Gram Inger T. , Heath Alicia K. , Colorado‐Yohar Sandra , Dahm Christina C. , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita Bas , Perez‐Cornago Aurora , Trichopoulou Antonia , Tumino Rosario , Kühn Tilman , Fedirko Veronika
Published: May 2020

Lower prediagnostic circulating 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D)—considered the best marker of total vitamin D exposure—is associated with higher mortality risk among colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. However, it is unknown whether this association differs by the vitamin D‐binding protein (GC) isoform Gc2 (encoded by GC rs4588*C>A, Thr436Lys), which may substantially affect vitamin D metabolism and modify associations of 25(OH)D with colorectal neoplasm risk. Prediagnostic 25(OH)D‐mortality associations according to Gc2 isoform were estimated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression among 1281 CRC cases (635 deaths, 483 from CRC) from two large prospective cohorts conducted in the United States (Cancer Prevention Study‐II) and Europe (European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition). 25(OH)D measurements were calibrated to a single assay, season standardized, and categorized using Institute of Medicine recommendations (deficient [<30], insufficient [30 ‐ <50], sufficient [≥50 nmol/L]). In the pooled analysis, multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for CRC‐specific mortality associated with deficient relative to sufficient 25(OH)D concentrations were 2.24 (95% CI 1.44‐3.49) among cases with the Gc2 isoform, and 0.94 (95% CI 0.68‐1.22) among cases without Gc2 (Pinteraction = .0002). The corresponding HRs for all‐cause mortality were 1.80 (95% CI 1.24‐2.60) among those with Gc2, and 1.12 (95% CI 0.84‐1.51) among those without Gc2 (Pinteraction = .004). Our findings suggest that the association of prediagnostic vitamin D status with mortality among CRC patients may differ by functional GC isoforms, and patients who inherit the Gc2 isoform (GC rs4588*A) may particularly benefit from higher circulating 25(OH)D for improved CRC prognosis.
A DASH 360° immersive video streaming control system
Authors: Ribezzo Giuseppe , De Cicco Luca , Palmisano Vittorio , Mascolo Saverio
Published: May 2020

This letter proposes a DASH‐compliant video streaming control system for 360° immersive videos. The overall system is composed of two control algorithms which cooperate both to adapt the video bitrate to match the time‐varying end‐to‐end network bandwidth and to select the most appropriate view of the panoramic scene in response to the varying point of view of the user. The proposed system has been implemented and an extensive experimental evaluation has been carried out in a realistic emulated network scenario to assess the obtainable performances in terms of visual quality and bitrate reduction.
Imperatorin and β-sitosterol have synergistic activities in alleviating collagen-induced arthritis
Authors: Guo Qingqing , Li Li , Zheng Kang , Zheng Guang , Shu Haiyang , Shi Yingjie , Lu Cheng , Shu Jun , Guan Daogang , Lu Aiping , He Xiaojuan
Published: May 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease with complex molecular network of pathophysiology, single drug is usually not full satisfactory because it is almost impossible to target the whole molecular network of the disease. Drug combinations that act synergistically with each another is an effective strategy in RA therapy. In this study, we aimed to establish a new strategy to search effective synergized compounds from Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) used in RA. Based on multi-information integrative approaches, imperatorin (IMP) and β-sitosterol (STO) were predicted as the most effective pair for RA therapy. Further animal experiments demonstrated that IMP+STO treatment ameliorated arthritis severity of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats in a synergistic manner, whereas IMP or STO administration separately had no such effect. RNA sequencing and IPA analysis revealed that the synergistic mechanism of IMP+STO treatment was related to its regulatory effect on 5 canonical signaling pathways, which were not found when IMP or STO used alone. Moreover, LTA, CD83, and SREBF1 were 3 important targets for synergistic mechanism of IMP+STO treatment. The levels of these 3 genes were significantly up-regulated in IMP+STO group compared to model group, whereas IMP or STO administration separately had no effect on them. In conclusion, this study found that IMP and STO were 2 synergistic compounds from the CHM in RA therapy, whose synergistic mechanism was closely related to regulate the levels of LTA, CD83, and SREBF1.
Partial T cell defects and expanded CD56bright NK cells in an SCID patient carrying hypomorphic mutation in the IL2RG gene
Authors: Cifaldi Cristina , Cotugno Nicola , Di Cesare Silvia , Giliani Silvia , Di Matteo Gigliola , Amodio Donato , Piano Mortari Eva , Chiriaco Maria , Buonsenso Danilo , Zangari Paola , Pagliara Daria , Gaspari Stefania , Carsetti Rita , Palma Paolo , Finocchi Andrea , Locatelli Franco , Rossi Paolo , Doria Margherita , Cancrini Caterina
Published: May 2020

X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency (X-SCID) caused by full mutation of the IL2RG gene leads to T− B+ NK− phenotype and is usually associated with severe opportunistic infections, diarrhea, and failure to thrive. When IL2RG hypomorphic mutation occurs, diagnosis could be delayed and challenging since only moderate reduction of T and NK cells may be present. Here, we explored phenotypic insights and the impact of the p.R222C hypomorphic mutation (IL2RGR222C) in distinct cell subsets in an 8-month-old patient with atypical X-SCID. We found reduced CD4+ T cell counts, a decreased frequency of naïve CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and an expansion of B cells. Ex vivo STAT5 phosphorylation was impaired in CD4+CD45RO+ T cells, yet compensated by supraphysiological doses of IL-2. Sanger sequencing on purified cell subsets showed a partial reversion of the mutation in total CD3+ cells, specifically in recent thymic emigrants (RTE), effector memory (EM), and CD45RA+ terminally differentiated EM (EMRA) CD4+ T cells. Of note, patient’s NK cells had a normal frequency compared to age-matched healthy subjects, but displayed an expansion of CD56bright cells with higher perforin content and cytotoxic potential, associated with accumulation of NK-cell stimulatory cytokines (IL-2, IL-7, IL-15). Overall, this report highlights an alteration in the NK-cell compartment that, together with the high disease-phenotype variability, should be considered in the suspicion of X-SCID with hypomorphic IL2RG mutation.
A one‐pot radiosynthesis of [18F]PARPi
Authors: Wilson Thomas C. , Pillarsetty Nagavarakishore , Reiner Thomas
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we disclose a new strategy for the radiosynthesis of [18F]PARPi from the corresponding, boc‐protected, nitro‐precursor. Using a two‐step procedure, [18F]PARPi could be isolated in radiochemical yields up to 9.6%. The reaction proceeds via an efficient one‐pot, two‐step process, allowing for simplification over previous methods that require complex multi‐step, multi‐pot strategies to be implemented.
How team helping influences abusive and empowering leadership: The roles of team affective tone and performance
Authors: Smallfield Jarvis , Hoobler Jenny M. , Kluemper Donald H.
Published: May 2020

Leaders' perceptions of their teams are critical sources of contextual social information influencing leadership behaviors. In this paper, we extend affect‐as‐social‐information theory to understand how and why team helping behaviors predict leaders' mistreatment of their teams in the form of abusive supervision and positive leader behavior in the form of empowering leadership, both through leaders' perceptions of team positive affective tone. In addition, based on social information processing, we examine the cue of leaders' perceptions of team task performance as a factor that helps us understand when the relationship between positive affective tone and leadership behaviors may be attenuated. In two text‐based scenario studies, a video‐based scenario study, and a multisource field study, we found evidence that team helping behavior is antecedent to abusive and empowering leadership behaviors and that this relationship is fully mediated by leaders' perceptions of team positive affective tone. Moreover, our results support team task performance as a factor that decreases the degree to which affective tone is related to abusive supervision. We discuss our findings as a caution to scholars' assumptions about the directionality of leader‐team influence, emphasizing the need to acknowledge upward effects in workplace mistreatment research in the leader–team relationship.
Conflict, justice, and inequality: Why perceptions of leader–member exchange differentiation hurt performance in teams
Authors: Choi Daejeong , Kraimer Maria L. , Seibert Scott E.
Published: May 2020

To better understand why leader–member exchange (LMX) differentiation in teams may be detrimental to individual and team performance, we propose that team members' perception of LMX differentiation (PLMXD) is more important than statistical measures of LMX differentiation. Specifically, we hypothesize a multilevel model in which relationship conflict and procedural justice (climate) mediate the relationships of individual and collective PLMXDs with individual and team performance, respectively. Using a sample of 235 individuals in 53 teams, we found that individual PLMXD was negatively related to individual performance through relationship conflict perceptions, controlling for LMX. At the team level, collective PLMXD was negatively related to team performance through procedural justice climate and relationship conflict, controlling for a statistical measure of LMXD. Theoretical implications and directions for future research are explored.
Use of Bedside Ultrasound to Assess Muscle Changes in the Critically Ill Surgical Patient
Authors: Bury Christan , DeChicco Robert , Nowak Diane , Lopez Rocio , He Lulu , Jacob Sandhya , Kirby Donald F. , Rahman Nadeem , Cresci Gail
Published: May 2020

Background

Critical illness causes hypercatabolism, loss of lean body mass (LBM), and poor outcomes. Evaluating LBM in the critically ill is challenging, and it is uncertain whether nutrition support (NS) impacts LBM. This study measured quadriceps muscle layer thickness (QMLT) by bedside ultrasound (US) to estimate LBM changes in surgical intensive care unit (SICU) patients and healthy controls (HCs).

Methods

Trained RDNs measured QMLT via US at the midpoint and one‐third distance between the superior margin of the patella and the anterior superior iliac spine. QMLT measurements were taken upon enrollment and repeated 1–2 times over 10 days.

Results

Fifty‐two SICU patients and 15 HCs were enrolled. Average SICU percent QMLT loss per day at the midpoint and one‐third landmarks was 3.2 ± 3.8 (P < 0.001) and 2.9 ± 5.7 (P = 0.001); and QMLT loss was higher between the second and third measurements (4.0 ± 8.0, P = 0.005 and 4.3 ± 9.8, P = 0.017 at the midpoint and one‐third landmarks) compared with that at the first and second measurements (1.7 ± 9.2, P = 0.20 & 1.7 ± 9.4, P = 0.22). Changes were not associated with NS received. No significant QMLT change was found in HCs.

Conclusions

SICU patients significantly lost QMLT over 10 days, with greater losses occurring after 5 days. These results support RDNs performing USs to detect QMLT changes and suggest this technique could be valuable to evaluate LBM changes in critically ill patients.
Diphenylsilane‐Manganese Acetylacetonate Redox Initiating Systems: Toward Amine‐Free and Peroxide‐Free Systems
Authors: Arar Ahmad , Mousawi Assi Al , Boyadjian Cassia , Garra Patxi , Fouassier Jean Pierre , Lalevée Jacques
Published: May 2020

Room temperature redox initiated free radical polymerization (RFRP), without light, brings a significant breakthrough in the field of materials science including energy conservation, high efficiency, robustness in thick materials/composites, and easy operation. Meanwhile, the current redox initiating systems used are based on toxic aromatic amines and hazardous peroxides (e.g., dibenzoylperoxide). In the present paper, for the first time in literature, new amine‐free, peroxide‐free redox two component (2K) initiating systems comprised of diphenylsilane (DPS, a reducing agent) and manganese acetylacetonate (Mn(acac)3, an oxidizing agent) are proposed. The significance of the system is its applicability under mild conditions (RT, under air). Optical pyrometry measurement results showed that the DPS in combination with Mn(acac)3 exhibited an excellent radical initiating property for benchmark (meth)acrylate monomers, competitive with a well‐established amine/dibenzoyl peroxide reference. Based on electron spin resonance experiments, the initiating chemical mechanisms of RFRP are proposed.
Dissipativity and stability for semilinear anomalous diffusion equations involving delays
Authors: Dinh Ke Tran , Tran Phuong Thuy Lam
Published: May 2020

We analyze the dissipativity and stability of solutions to a class of semilinear anomalous diffusion equations involving delays. The existence of absorbing set, the stability, and weak stability will be shown under suitable assumptions on the nonlinearity. Our analysis is based on new Halanay‐type inequality, local estimates, and fixed‐point arguments.
Theoretical studies of the g factors and local structures of the Ni3+ centers in Na2Zn(SO4)2·4H2O and K2Zn(SO4)2·6H2O crystals
Authors: Chen B.J. , Li Y.D. , Feng C.D. , Zhang H.M. , Yan C. , Xiao W.B.
Published: May 2020

The local structures and the g factors gi (i = x, y, z) for Ni3+ centers in Na2Zn(SO4)2·4H2O (DPPH) and K2Zn(SO4)2·6H2O (PHZS) crystals are theoretically studied by using the perturbation formulas of the g factors for a 3d7 ion with low spin (S = 1/2) in orthorhombically compressed octahedra. In these formulas, the contributions to g factors from both the spin‐orbit coupling interactions of the central ion and ligands are taken into account, and the required crystal‐field parameters are estimated from the superposition model and the local geometry of the systems. Based on the calculations, the Ni‐O bonds are found to suffer the axial compression δz (or Δz) of about 0.111 Å (or 0.036 Å) along the z‐axis for Ni3+ centers in DPPH (or PHZS) crystals. Meanwhile, the Ni‐O bonds may experience additional planar bond length variation δx (≈0.015 Å) along x‐ and y‐axes for the orthorhombic Ni3+ center in DPPH. The theoretical g factors agree well with the experimental data. The obtained local structural parameters for both Ni3+ centers are discussed.
Does the pass‐through of exchange rate and globalization validate the rockets and feathers hypothesis in Nigeria? Evidence from a nonlinear model
Authors: Usman Ojonugwa
Published: May 2020

The rapid shift in trade policy towards greater openness is theoretically presumed to leave domestic prices vulnerable to the change in exchange rate. This study investigates not only the asymmetric pass‐through of exchange rate but also globalization to consumer price inflation (CPI) in Nigeria and determines whether the pass‐through is consistent with the rockets and feathers hypothesis. Using the Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model and the monthly data from 1986 M01–2015 M12, the results provide evidence that the pass‐through of exchange rate and globalization is asymmetric with depreciation and negative shocks to globalization exerting a higher pass‐through—a result that validates the rockets and feathers hypothesis. The results further suggest that the asymmetric pass‐through of exchange rate and globalization is elastic in the long run except for the positive shocks to exchange rate while in the short run, it is inelastic except for the negative shocks to globalization. Overall, the pass‐through, in the long run, is higher compared to the pass‐through in the short run.
Outcome at the end of treatment of patients with common and curable childhood cancer types in Blantyre, Malawi
Authors: Chakumatha Eunice , Weijers Janna , Banda Kondwani , Bailey Simon , Molyneux Elizabeth , Chagaluka George , Israels Trijn
Published: May 2020

Background

The WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer aims to increase survival to at least 60% for all children with cancer globally, with initial focus on six common curable cancer types. Frequent causes of treatment failure in low income countries (LICs) are treatment abandonment and death during treatment. Here, we report on the outcome at the end of treatment of patients with newly diagnosed common and curable cancer types, admitted in the Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi.

Procedure

Outcome at end of treatment was documented and analyzed retrospectively for all children with a working diagnosis of a common and curable cancer type (ALL, Hodgkin disease, Wilms tumor, retinoblastoma, and Burkitt lymphoma) admitted over a 2‐year period. Patients with a misdiagnosis were excluded. Outcomes were categorized as alive without evidence of disease, treatment abandonment, death during treatment, or persistent disease.

Results

We included 264 patients. Seven patients with a misdiagnosis were excluded. At the end of treatment, 53% (139 of 264) of patients were alive without evidence of disease, 19% (49 of 264) had abandoned treatment, 23% (61 of 264) had died during treatment, and 6% (15 of 264) had persistent disease.

Conclusion

Survival of children with common and curable cancers is (significantly) below 50%. Almost half (42%) of the patients either abandoned treatment or died during treatment. Strategies to enable parents to complete treatment of their child and improved supportive care are needed. Such interventions may need to be given priority to improve the currently poor survival.
Assessing Personality States: What to Consider when Constructing Personality State Measures
Authors: Horstmann Kai T. , Ziegler Matthias
Published: May 2020

Repeated assessments of personality states in daily diary or experience sampling studies have become a more and more common tool in the psychologist's toolbox. However, and contrary to the widely available literature on personality traits, no best practices for the development of personality state measures exist, and personality state measures have been developed in many different ways. To address this, we first define what a personality state is and discuss important components. On the basis of this, we define what a personality state measure is and suggest a general guideline for the development of such measures. Following the ABC of test construction can then guide the strategy for obtaining validity and reliability evidence: (A) What is the construct being measured? (B) What is the intended purpose of the measure? And (C) What is the targeted population of persons and situations? We then conclude with an example by developing an initial item pool for the assessment of conscientiousness personality states. © 2020 The Authors. European Journal of Personality published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of European Association of Personality Psychology
Indian patient use of cancer euphemisms: Association with psychological outcomes and health behaviours
Authors: Epton Tracy , Chittem Mahati , Tanikella Ravali , Rajappa Senthil , Sinha Sudha , Harris Peter R
Published: May 2020

Objective

Euphemisms may be used to reduce the threat associated with the word “cancer.” Cancer may be particularly threatening in Indian culture due to the myths surrounding its cause and prognosis. This study explored the prevalence of euphemism use by Indian patients and the relationship among euphemism use and illness cognitions, affect, health behaviour, and spontaneous self‐affirmation (a behaviour associated with dealing with threat).

Methods

In total, 350 cancer patients in India were recruited to take part in a study exploring patients' experiences of, and thoughts about, having an illness. They responded to a questionnaire measuring illness perceptions, coping strategies, anxiety, depression, health behaviours, and spontaneous self‐affirmation. Patients were asked what words they used to describe their illness; euphemism users were those who used a euphemism (ie, non‐medical term) as a first word.

Results

About 51% of patients used a euphemism as a first word. Those with less education, unskilled employment, a lower income, and more children were more likely to be euphemism users. Euphemism users reported (a) weaker illness perceptions (less personal control, greater reporting of symptoms, and less understanding of their condition), (b) less use of 3 of 14 coping strategies, (c) less likelihood of spontaneously self‐affirming, and (d) fewer healthy eating days.

Conclusions

Euphemism use in patients was not related to distress but was related to negative illness perceptions and use of fewer coping strategies, suggesting that we need further study about the extent to which euphemisms signal issues in psychological adaptation to cancer diagnosis.
Negative and Positive Photoconductivity and Memristor Effect in Alloyed GeO[SiO] Films Containing Ge Nanoclusters
Authors: Volodin Vladimir A. , Kamaev Gennadiy N. , Vergnat Michel
Published: May 2020

Metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) structures based on GeO[SiO] films containing amorphous Ge nanoclusters are fabricated on n+‐Si(100) substrate by co‐evaporation of GeO2 and SiO powders in ultra‐high vacuum. Indium tin oxide (ITO) top electrodes are deposited using magnetron sputtering. According to Raman data, annealing at 500 °C for 20 min leads to an increase in amorphous Ge volume. Current–voltage characteristics provide clear evidence of resistive switching (memristor effect) in the annealed MIS structure after the forming procedure. Both negative and positive photoconductivities are observed in the MIS structure before forming when both negative/positive voltage biases are applied to the top ITO electrode. This is possibly due to light‐stimulated recharging of holes originating from Ge‐nanoclusters, which act as traps.
Impact of GeSn Crystallinity on Reliability of Ferroelectric HfZrOx for Devices with Metal–Ferroelectric–Semiconductor Structure
Authors: Chou Chuan-Pu , Lin Yan-Xiao , Huang Yu-Kai , Chan Chih-Yu , Wu Yung-Hsien
Published: May 2020

Devices in the form of TiN/ferroelectric‐HfZrOx (FE‐HZO)/polycrystalline or epitaxial GeSn are used to investigate how the crystallinity of GeSn film affects the behaviors and reliability performance. FE‐HZO on epitaxial GeSn film reveals higher ferroelectricity as evidenced by a larger remanent polarization (Pr) by 21% as compared with that formed on polycrystalline GeSn film. Devices with epitaxial GeSn film also demonstrate higher dipole switching speed, more robust endurance up to 106 cycles (±3.3 MV cm−1, long pulse width of 1 ms) and better retained polarization up to 104 s. The essential factor that determines the more desirable ferroelectric behaviors and reliability lies in the higher quality of the interfacial layer between HZO and GeSn film which helps suppress defect generation and charge trapping. The research results also highlight the importance to improve the interfacial layer quality for enhanced performance of ferroelectric devices formed on polycrystalline semiconductor.