bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miR‐24‐3p promotes cell migration and proliferation in lung cancer by targeting SOX7
Authors: Yan Liang , Ma Jinzhu , Zhu Yiping , Zan Jiawei , Wang Zhen , Ling Liefeng , Li Qiang , Lv Jun , Qi Shimei , Cao Yingya , Liu Ying , Cao Long , Zhang Yao , Qi Zhilin , Nie Liuwang
Published: December 2017

Lung cancer (LC) is one of the leading causes of cancer‐related death in the world. miR‐24‐3p plays critical roles in many cancer types, including LC. In this study, we first investigated whether miR‐24‐3p promoted LC cell migration and proliferation in vitro. We used three bioinformatics algorithms to predict the miR‐24‐3p target gene to study the molecular mechanism by which miR‐24‐3p contributes to LC progression. Then, we used the luciferase reporter assay to identify whether SOX7 was a direct target of miR‐24‐3p. Moreover, Western blotting and a quantitative real time‐polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that miR‐24‐3p downregulated SOX7 protein expression by a post‐transcriptional mechanism. Finally, we determined that SOX7 had opposing effects to those of miR‐24‐3p on LC cell proliferation and migration, suggesting that miR‐24‐3p promotes cell proliferation and migration by directly targeting SOX7. Furthermore, miR‐24‐3p accelerated tumor growth in xenograft mice by targeting SOX7. These results provide the first clue that miR‐24‐3p could play a role as an oncomiR in LC by regulating SOX7.
Retracted: Effects of microrna‐93 on mouse cardiac microvascular endothelial cells injury and inflammatory response by mediating SPP1 through the NF‐ΚB pathway
Authors: Ma Su‐Xia , Bai Zhi‐Feng , Wang Wei , Wu Hui‐Ying
Published: December 2017

Background

This study aims to investigate the regulative role of microRNA‐93 (miR‐93) in mouse cardiac microvascular endothelial cells (CMECs) injury and inflammatory response by negatively targeting SPP1 gene via the NF‐κB signaling pathway.

Methods

Healthy Balb/c mice were recruited to establish a mouse model with myocarditis using the CVB3 virus. Mice were grouped into normal, blank, negative control (NC), miR‐93 inhibitor, miR‐93 mimic, SPP1 short hairpin RNA (shRNA), and miR‐93 mimic+SPP1 shRNA groups. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis were applied to determine the expressions of miR‐93, SPP1, VEGFA, p50, p65, Bax, and Bcl‐2. MTT assay was conducted to evaluate cell viability, annexin V‐fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide double staining was conducted to examine cell apoptosis, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was conducted to measure secretion of inflammatory factors, and chemical colorimetry was conducted to determine NO secretion.

Results

SPP1 was a target gene of miR‐93. Compared with the normal group, other six groups showed increased expressions of SPP1, p50, p65, VEGFA, and Bax, as well as cell apoptosis rate and secretion of cell inflammatory factors, and decreased expression of Bcl‐2, cell viability, and NO secretion. Compared with the blank group, the miR‐93 inhibitor group showed elevated expressions of SPP1, p50, p65, VEGFA, and Bax, as well as cell apoptosis rate and secretion of cell inflammatory factors, and reduced Bcl‐2, cell viability, and NO secretion. While the miR‐93 mimic and SPP1 shRNA groups displayed opposite results.

Conclusion

Taking our results together, we conclude that upregulation of miR‐93 reduces CMECs injury and inflammatory response by negatively targeting SPP1 via inactivating the NF‐κB signaling pathway.
Biodegradable Gelatin as Template for the Preparation of Mesoporous Alumina
Authors: Shen Yu‐Chan , Hsu Chun‐Han , Lin Hong‐Ping
Published: December 2017

In this study, we propose a time‐ and energy‐saving method using biodegradable gelatin as a green template and a low‐toxicity inorganic aluminum salt (Al(NO3)3·9H2O) as a low‐cost aluminum source for the preparation of mesoporous alumina (γ‐Al2O3). The effects of pH (pH 8.0–10.0), gelatin to aluminum source ratio (0–1.9), and the hydrothermal treatment time (0–72 h) are thoroughly explored. The gelatin can assemble with the aluminum species γ‐AlOOH via hydrogen bonding to prevent the self‐condensation of the γ‐AlOOH during the hydrothermal treatment. Distinctly, the mesoporous γ‐Al2O3 was obtained from the calcination of the resulting gelatin–γ‐AlOOH composites. Without gelatin, high‐crystallinity γ‐AlOOH formed after the hydrothermal treatment, which transformed into the nonporous γ‐Al2O3 with a small surface area (20 m2/g). Finally, it was found that with a gelatin/aluminum ratio of 0.81, reaction pH value of 8.0, and hydrothermal treatment time of 24 h, high‐surface‐area mesoporous γ‐Al2O3 (262 m2/g) with pore diameter of 6.3 nm could be synthesized.
Microbial production of glutaconic acid via extradiol ring cleavage of catechol
Authors: Sun Jing , Ren Yanxian , Raza Muslim , Sun Xinxiao , Yuan Qipeng
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

Glutaconic acid (GA), a potential precursor for nylons and biodegradable polyesters, can hardly be produced by microorganisms in nature. In this study, a metabolic engineering method was used to design a novel artificial pathway in Escherichia coli for GA production by connecting catechol biosynthesis and its extradiol cleavage degradation pathway.

RESULTS

Results of enzyme assays showed the kcat value of C23O (catechol 2, 3‐dioxygenase) toward catechol was 101.6 ± 2.0 s‐1, and the kcat value of DmpC (2‐hydroxymuconic semialdehyde dehydrogenase) toward 2‐hydroxymuconic semialdehyde was 11.1 ± 0.6 s‐1. The enzymes of full pathway were then split into four modules according to their various activities. After feeding experiments, the full pathway was introduced into E. coli strain BW25113, and the production of GA reached 18.1 ± 1.2 mg L‐1. After two genes of the pathway were incorporated into the chromosome, the resultant strain exhibited improved cell growth, and the titer of GA reached 35.3 ± 1.8 mg L‐1.

CONCLUSIONS

The catalytic parameters of C23O and DmpC were tested and used for module assembling. Integration of genes in the pathway alleviated the metabolic burden of strain and resulted in higher production of GA. Moreover, this is the first report demonstrating the de novo biosynthesis of GA via extradiol ring cleavage of catechol from simple carbon sources in E. coli. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Cycles with two blocks in k‐chromatic digraphs
Authors: Kim Ringi , Kim Seog‐Jin , Ma Jie , Park Boram
Published: December 2017

Let k and ℓ be positive integers. A cycle with two blocks is a digraph obtained by an orientation of an undirected cycle, which consists of two internally (vertex) disjoint paths of lengths at least k and ℓ, respectively, from a vertex to another one. A problem of Addario‐Berry, Havet and Thomassé [J. Combin. Theory Ser. B 97 (2007), 620–626] asked if, given positive integers k and ℓ such that , any strongly connected digraph D containing no has chromatic number at most . In this article, we show that such digraph D has chromatic number at most , improving the previous upper bound of Cohen et al. [Subdivisions of oriented cycles in digraphs with large chromatic number, to appear]. We also show that if in addition D is Hamiltonian, then its underlying simple graph is ‐degenerate and thus the chromatic number of D is at most , which is tight.
Biocatalysis in radiochemistry: Enzymatic incorporation of PET radionuclides into molecules of biomedical interest
Authors: da Silva Eunice S. , Gómez‐Vallejo Vanessa , López‐Gallego Fernando , Llop Jordi
Published: December 2017

Biocatalysis is emerging as a new approach to radiolabel biologically active molecules with short half‐lived positron emitters for their use in positron emission tomography. Despite the golden era of biocatalysis in radiochemistry occurred in the 70s and 80s, advances in enzyme engineering during the last decade have significantly enhanced the toolbox of enzymes available for chemical reactions, which may find application in the context of radiochemistry. In the present review, we intend to give an overview of the biocatalytic approaches that have been reported during the last 4 decades for the synthesis of PET radiotracers using nitrogen‐13, carbon‐11, and fluorine‐18.
Creativity Research and Cultural Context: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Sawyer R. Keith
Published: December 2017

Creativity research has always been linked to its social and cultural context. In this essay, I give two examples of how creativity research has changed from the 1950s to the present, and I argue that these two changes are driven by social and cultural factors. First, I discuss a transformation in U.S. society from a 1950s emphasis on conformity, to a contemporary valorization of radical entrepreneurship that rejects the status quo. Second, I discuss a shift from a focus on creative forms associated with elite cultural groups, to a broader focus on universal creativity.
Meetings with a mission: The Unitarian Universalist Association's systematic approach to advance sustainability
Authors: McKinley Shawna
Published: December 2017

Practical wisdom in the conference‐planning field suggests that green, or environmentally responsible, events result from adherence to various best practices, such as eliminating paper, reducing packaging, and recycling. Sustainability standards such as ISO 20121, however, propose a more systematic way of identifying the sustainability issues that stakeholders care about—such as accessibility, climate change, waste avoidance, and health—and setting continuous improvement objectives to address these priorities through planning decisions. Whereas the former approach is largely tactical, the latter is more strategic, and presents opportunities for associations to drive mission‐based principles through their event supply chain and demonstrate performance against values that matter to members. The experiences of the Unitarian Universalist Association, which has been systematically integrating sustainability into planning logistics for its annual General Assembly since 2005, underscore the value of using events as a tool to transform business and association practice in support of sustainability.
The role of personal and job resources in boosting nurses’ work engagement and performance
Authors: Bhatti Muhammad Awais , Hussain Muhammad Sajjad , Al Doghan Mohammed A.
Published: December 2017

To explore the influence of personal and job resources on nurses’ work engagement and job performance, researchers developed a conceptual framework comprising the role of personality traits, self‐efficacy, job characteristics, supervisor and co‐worker support, participation in decision making, and job security. Their analysis suggests that work engagement mediates the relationship among personal resources (personality traits and self‐efficacy), job resources (job characteristics, supervisor and co‐worker support, participation in decision‐making and job security), and job performance. In highlighting the influence of personal and job resources on work engagement, this study can guide human resource professionals and managers in the healthcare field to focus on the factors that can most contribute to enhancing organizational performance.
The impact of environmental design on employee performance at PNPI Group
Authors: Samani Sanaz Ahmadpoor , Eskandari Alireza , Zadeh Farahnaz Orojali , Samani Jamshid Ebrahimpoor
Published: December 2017

A study to investigate the effect of environmental design on employees’ performance focused on two newly reconfigured offices of Padideh Novien Pasargard Iranian Group, a multinational trading company in Tehran. The introduction of partitions in previously open‐plan workspaces gave workers more control over various ambient conditions and enabled them to personalize their individual workstations. The results of a research questionnaire administered after the redesign show that employees’ satisfaction with the work environment and their well‐being improved by 10% and their sense of feeling creative and productive improved by 7%. In line with previous research on the impact of environmental conditions on employees’ outlook and performance, the results of this study underscore the value of attention to employees’ opinions and concerns when designing their work environments.
Gold film over very small (107 nm) spheres as efficient substrate for sensitive and reproducible surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection of biologically important molecules
Authors: Štolcová Lucie , Peksa Vlastimil , Proška Jan , Procházka Marek
Published: December 2017

Gold plasmonic nanostructures with high sensitivity and spectral reproducibility are key components of molecular sensors based on surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). In this paper, we report a “bottom‐up” fabrication of gold “film over nanosphere” (FON) substrates for SERS sensing on the basis of very small (107 nm in diameter) polystyrene spheres coated with 20 nm of gold. To obtain close‐packed spheres in a large scale area, the self‐assembly at the water–air interface was found to be very efficient. Sensitivity and reproducibility of the AuFON substrates were tested using various molecular probes: 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(1‐methyl‐4‐pyridyl)porphyrin, p‐aminothiophenol, and benzocaine. Relative standard deviation of SERS signal was found to be less than 20% confirming good spectral reproducibility especially using a 100× objective. Then, we demonstrated sensitive SERS detection of other biologically important molecules adsorbed on our AuFON substrates: thiolated‐polyA, protoporphyrin IX, and two alkaloids (nicotine and strychnine). Estimated limits of detection were 8.2 × 10−7 and 4.5 × 10−7 M (in order of 100 ng.ml−1) incubation concentration for strychnine and nicotine, respectively. Therefore, we conclude that the 20‐nm gold film deposited on polystyrene spheres of 107 nm in diameter provided both good spectral reproducibility and sensitivity. Their implementation into the SERS‐active system will enable to bring about new quantitative and analytical SERS applications.
Effects of medium‐chain triacylglycerols on Maillard reaction in bread baking
Authors: Toyosaki Toshiyuki
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

To investigate the relationship between the fatty acid composition of medium‐chain triacylglycerols (MCTs) and the Maillard reaction induced during bread baking, a comparison with various fatty acids was conducted.

RESULTS

Saturated fatty acids had a remarkable inhibitory effect on the amount of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) generated from the Maillard reaction in bread baking compared to unsaturated fatty acids. The amount of AGEs produced by each fatty acid (mg kg−1) was as follows: C18:0, 18.7; C12:0, 35.2; C16:0, 21.4; C18:0, 38.2; C18:1, 68.7; C18:2, 80.1; C20:4, 80.8; C22:4, 89.8. Saturated fatty acids were possibly involved in the Maillard reaction and, as a result, acted to inhibit it. In the case of unsaturated fatty acids, amounts of AGEs during the Maillard reaction in baking tended to increase as the degree of unsaturation increased. In other words, there was a positive correlation between the degree of unsaturation and the amount of AGEs. It was also confirmed that the air pore distribution in baked bread was closely related to AGEs.

CONCLUSION

These results led us to conclude that the fatty acid composition of the added lipids also influences properties that determine the tastiness of bread. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Nigella sativa L. as an alternative antibiotic feed supplement and effect on growth performance in weanling pigs
Authors: Petrujkić Branko T , Beier Ross C , He Haiqi , Genovese Kenneth J , Swaggerty Christina L , Hume Michael E , Crippen Tawni L , Harvey Roger B , Anderson Robin C , Nisbet David J
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

Nigella sativa L. (NS) is a plant containing bioactive constituents such as thymoquinone. Extracts of NS improve performance and reduce enteropathogen colonization in poultry and small ruminants, but studies with swine are lacking. In two different studies oral administration of NS extracts at doses equivalent to 0, 1.5 and 4.5 g kg−1 diet was assessed on piglet performance and intestinal carriage of wildtype Escherichia coli and Campylobacter, and Salmonella Typhimurium.

RESULTS

Wildtype E. coli populations in the jejunal and rectal content collected 9 days after treatment began were decreased (P ≤ 0.05). Populations recovered from pigs treated with extract at 1.5 and 4.5 g kg−1 diet were 0.72–1.31 log10 units lower than the controls (ranging from 6.05 to 6.61 log10 CFU g−1). Wildtype Campylobacter and Salmonella Typhimurium were unaffected by NS treatment. Feed efficiency over the 9 days improved linearly (P < 0.05) from 3.88 with 0 NS‐treated pigs to 1.47 and 1.41 with pigs treated with NS at 1.5 and 4.5 g kg–1 diet, respectively, possibly due to high glutamine/glutamic acid content of the NS extract.

CONCLUSION

NS supplementation of weanling pigs improved feed efficiency and helped control intestinal E. coli during this vulnerable production phase. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Genetic inheritance of pulp colour and selected traits of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) at early generation selection
Authors: Nduwumuremyi Athanase , Melis Rob , Shanahan Paul , Theodore Asiimwe
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

The early generation selection of cassava quantitative and qualitative traits saves breeding resources as it can shorten breeding schemes. Inheritance analysis provides important breeding information for developing new improved varieties. This study aimed at developing an F1 segregating cassava population and determining mode of gene action of pulp colour and selected traits at early generation selection (F1 seedling and clones).

RESULTS

The 15 families exhibited significant (P < 0.05) phenotypic variation between offspring. The general combining ability (GCA) was significant for all traits except cassava brown streak disease on leaves, whereas specific combining ability (SCA) was significant for all evaluated traits. The Garukansubire and Gitamisi genotypes were the best general combiners for improving fresh storage root yield, while G1 and G2 were the best general combiners for improved carotenoid (yellow/orange pulp colour) and delayed physiological postharvest deterioration. The pulp colour had the highest GCA/SCA ratio and percent sum of squares due to GCA.

CONCLUSION

The 15 F1 families exhibited essential genetic diversity for cassava improvement. The expression of most cassava traits was controlled by both additive and non‐additive gene action. The study elucidated the role of dominance effects over the additive effects for the evaluated traits. However, the pulp colour was predominantly controlled by additive gene action. This implies the possibility of improving cassava through conventional breeding using recurrent selection for most traits. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Genotype × environment interaction on tocochromanol and plastochromanol‐8 content in seeds of doubled haploids obtained from F1 hybrid black × yellow seeds of winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Siger Aleksander , Michalak Michał , Lembicz Justyna , Nogala‐Kałucka Małgorzata , Cegielska‐Taras Teresa , Szała Laurencja
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of genotype × environment interaction on the levels of α‐, β‐, γ‐ and δ‐tocopherol (α‐T, β‐T, γ‐T and δ‐T, respectively) and plastochromanol‐8 (PC‐8) in seeds of 17 doubled haploids (DHs) obtained from the F1 hybrid derived from crossing black (DH H2‐26) × yellow (DH Z‐114) seeds of winter oilseed rape.

RESULTS

The content of tocopherols in the tested DH lines ranged from 415.6 to 540.1 mg kg−1 seeds, while PC‐8 content ranged from 56.3 to 89.0 mg kg−1 seeds. The α‐T/γ‐T ratio reached a level of 0.78–1.29. Studies have shown that heritability for α‐T, β‐T, γ‐T, total‐T and PC‐8 is mainly due to genotypic variation. For the δ‐T homologue the level was dependent on environmental effect.

CONCLUSION

The obtained DH lines population of oilseed rape is characterized by high heritability coefficients for α‐T, β‐T, γ‐T, total‐T and PC‐8 levels, which indicates a greater influence of genotype than the environment on the content of these compounds. Among all studied doubled haploids, seven DHs were selected which were characterized by stable contents of α‐T, β‐T, γ‐T, δ‐T and total‐T with the simultaneous stable content of PC‐8. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Relationship between carbohydrate composition and fungal deterioration of functional strawberry juices preserved using non‐thermal treatments
Authors: Cassani Lucía , Quintana Gabriel , Moreira María R , Gómez‐Zavaglia Andrea
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

The quantification of the main carbohydrates present in strawberry juices enriched with inulin and fructo‐oligosaccharides (FOS) and preserved by non‐thermal techniques (vanillin and ultrasound) was conducted, in addition to an investigation of the evolution of these compounds and their relationship with fungal deterioration over 14 days of refrigerated storage.

RESULTS

A simple and environmentally friendly analytical approach based on high‐performance liquid chromatography with a reflection index detector was developed for simultaneous determination of inulin, FOS and mono‐ and disaccharides present in the juices. When analyzing the evolution of carbohydrates during storage, a direct relationship between the consumption of sucrose and the growth of yeasts and molds (main spoilage flora in strawberry) was observed, especially in untreated samples (control). By contrast, no sucrose consumption was observed during storage of the treated sample, thus demonstrating the efficiency of the non‐thermal treatments for controlling yeasts and mold growth. In turn, inulin and FOS added to juices were not degraded during storage.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained in the present study demonstrate that non‐thermal treatments are adequate for preventing the growth of deteriorative flora in strawberry juices and that the addition of inulin and FOS can be a good strategy for functionalizing them, as well as improving their nutritional properties. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Remediation of a heavy metals contaminated soil using mycorrhized and non‐mycorrhizedHelichrysum italicum(Roth) Don
Authors: Brunetti Gennaro , Ruta Claudia , Traversa Andreina , D'Ambruoso Giuseppe , Tarraf Waed , De Mastro Francesco , De Mastro Giuseppe , Cocozza Claudio
Published: December 2017

Four hundred hectares of the inland and hilly part of Apulia Region (Southern Italy) were contaminated by using low‐quality composts for many years. That territory now belongs to a national park and needs a sustainable soil restoration. Therefore, a greenhouse experiment was carried out to test the phytoremediation potential of the frugalHelichrysum italicum(Roth) Don, alone and mycorrhized bySeptoglomus viscosum.The aims of the research were (a) to test if theH. italicumcan reduce the soil content of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn; (b) to identify in which part of the plant those metals are mainly accumulated; (c) to check the role ofS. viscosumin promoting the plant growth and the soil phytoremediation. The results showed better plant growth in contaminated soils in comparison to control soils, regardless of the presence of mycorrhiza, probably due to the better soil fertility parameters in contaminated soils. In addition, non‐mycorrhized plants from contaminated soil accumulated greater amounts of heavy metals, especially Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn, in their root system. According to the translocation and bioconcentration factors, the mechanism by whichH. italicumincorporated heavy metals was ascribable to a phytostabilization process. In contrast, the application of mycorrhiza in the contaminated soil reduced the uptake of heavy metals by the roots, possibly through an exclusion mechanism, reducing the phytoremediation potential ofH. italicum.
Diatom‐produced allelochemicals trigger trophic cascades in the planktonic food web
Authors: Franzè Gayantonia , Pierson James J. , Stoecker Diane K. , Lavrentyev Peter J.
Published: December 2017

Diatoms produce a series of cytotoxic secondary metabolites such as polyunsaturated aldehydes (PUA) in response to cell injury or stress. However, little information exists on the PUA effects on the pelagic food web. A set of experiments was conducted in the Chesapeake Bay and the coastal Atlantic waters using dissolved PUA (2E,4E‐octadienal and 2E,4E‐heptadienal), natural assemblages of phytoplankton and microzooplankton, and the copepod Acartia tonsa. The results demonstrate that PUA primarily acts as deterrent for microzooplankton herbivory on diatoms, while enhancing herbivory on picophytoplankton. This switch should favor PUA‐producing diatoms by simultaneously reducing direct grazing losses and competition. Additionally, PUA stimulated copepod predation on microzooplankton, particularly on ciliates. Combined, these effects have the potential to disrupt growth‐grazing equilibrium in the pelagic food web and create an opportunity for bloom development.
New Insight into the Synthesis and Biological Activity of the Polymeric Materials Consisting of Folic Acid and β‐Cyclodextrin
Authors: Kasprzak Artur , Grudzinski Ireneusz P. , Bamburowicz‐Klimkowska Magdalena , Parzonko Andrzej , Gawlak Maciej , Poplawska Magdalena
Published: December 2017

This work presents a very new look at folate targeting and is focused on synthesizing and assessing the biological activity of folic acid‐targeted drug delivery materials based on β‐cyclodextrin. Both folic acid and β‐cyclodextrin have been covalently conjugated to branched polyethylenimine as the polymeric vector. Host–guest inclusion of folic acid into a β‐cyclodextrin cavity, demonstrated by means of the spectroscopic methods (2‐D NMR, IR, UV–Vis), is found to be of crucial importance for biological activity of nanotherapeutics. This paper describes the very first example of the versatile synthetic approach to create the polymeric biosystems, where folic acid activity is not limited by the inclusion phenomenon. Cytotoxicity of the obtained polymeric materials against Lewis lung carcinoma cells is determined by neutral red uptake assay. Folate receptor‐binding studies reveal that the developed synthetic approach enables full exploitation of the potential of folic acid as a targeting ligand.
Molecular profiling and genome‐wide analysis based on somatic copy number alterations in advanced colorectal cancers
Authors: Sugai Tamotsu , Takahashi Yayoi , Eizuka Makoto , Sugimoto Ryo , Fujita Yasuko , Habano Wataru , Otsuka Kouki , Sasaki Akira , Yamamoto Eiichiro , Matsumoto Takayuki , Suzuki Hiromu
Published: December 2017

To characterize somatic alterations in colorectal cancer (CRC), we conducted a genome‐scale analysis of 106 CRC specimens. We assessed comprehensive somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs) in these CRC specimens. In addition, we examined microsatellite instability (MSI; low and high), genetic mutations (KRAS, BRAF, TP53, and PIK3CA), and DNA methylation status (classified into low, intermediate, and high type). We stratified molecular alterations in the CRCs using a hierarchical cluster analysis. The examined CRCs could be categorized into three subgroups using hierarchical cluster analysis. Tumors in subgroup 1 were characterized by a low frequency of SCNAs and a high frequency of MSI‐high status, whereas tumors in subgroups 2 and 3 were closely associated with a high frequency of SCNAs. Tumors in subgroup 1 were preferentially present in the right‐sided colon and showed frequent MSI‐high status. Subgroup 3 was distinguished by specific alterations, including gains at 1q23‐44, 1p11‐36, 10q11‐26, 10p11‐13, 12q24‐24, and 13q33‐33. In contrast, tumors in subgroup 2 were characterized by copy‐neutral LOH at 12p12‐13, 1q24‐25, and 10q22. In addition, KRAS mutations were more frequently found in subgroup 3 than in subgroup 1. TP53 mutations and intermediate levels of DNA methylation were common alterations in the three subgroups. SCNAs contributed to sporadic CRC, and there were three subgroups based on SCNAs that played a different role in driving the development of this disease.
Design and Preparation of Highly Filled Water‐Borne Polymer–Gibbsite Nanocomposites
Authors: Loiko Olessya P. , Spoelstra Anne B. , van Herk Alexander M. , Meuldijk Jan , Heuts Johan P. A.
Published: December 2017

Highly filled, high solids content, water‐borne polymer–Gibbsite nanocomposites are prepared with Gibbsite contents as high as 35 wt%. The polymer–Gibbsite nanocomposites are synthesised via conventional starved feed emulsion polymerization using negatively charged butyl acrylate‐co‐acrylic acid oligomers, which functioned as electrosteric stabilizers for the initial platelets and the subsequently formed latex particles. A simple mathematical model describing the amount of cooligomer required for the colloidal stability of the initial Gibbsite platelets and the subsequently formed particles was derived. This model was used to determine the reaction conditions required for obtaining colloidally stable nanocomposites with a targeted filler content. Cryogenic transmission electron microscopy characterization of the resulting nanocomposites with filler contents up to 20 wt% revealed fully encapsulated Gibbsite platelets and a mixed morphology of “muffin‐like” and encapsulated particles was obtained at higher filler contents.
Whole‐exome sequencing of oral mucosal melanoma reveals mutational profile and therapeutic targets
Authors: Lyu Jiong , Song Zhijian , Chen Jianhua , Shepard Matthew J , Song Hao , Ren Guoxin , Li Zhiqiang , Guo Wei , Zhuang Zhengping , Shi Yongyong
Published: December 2017

Oral mucosal melanoma (OMM) is a rare and aggressive subtype of melanoma with little known about its pathogenesis or carcinogenesis. We therefore performed whole‐exome sequencing (WES) on 19 matched OMM tumor/normal pairs in order to gain insight into potential genetic drivers of tumor formation. For the first time, we describe the comprehensive mutational profile of OMM. Our data suggest that the genetic background of OMM differs from those of other melanoma subtypes. We identified recurrent mutations involving KIT, POLE, PTPRD, PTCHD2, and DMXL2. Notably, copy number analysis revealed recurrently amplified regions of 12q14 (57.9%, containing CDK4) and 5p15 (47.4%, containing TERT). CNV analysis in a separate cohort of 15 samples validated the frequent CNV in CDK4 and TERT. We also observed that the melanocyte development and pigmentation signaling pathway is frequently altered in OMM. Furthermore, our data suggest several altered genes that may be amenable for targeted therapy. We identified one patient with metastatic OMM in our cohort who was identified to harbor a targetable KIT mutation using our WES results. This patient was able to achieve complete remission following implementation of KIT‐targeted therapy. These findings provide further insight into the genetic underpinnings of OMM development and suggest that patients with OMM may benefit from WES analysis to identify potential targetable genetic mutations. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐dimensional printed model of bilateral Wilms tumor: A useful tool for planning nephron sparing surgery
Authors: Girón‐Vallejo Óscar , García‐Calderón Darío , Ruiz‐Pruneda Ramón , Cabello‐Laureano Rosa , Doménech‐Abellán Ernesto , Fuster‐Soler José Luis , Ruiz‐Jiménez José I.
Published: December 2017

Nephron sparing surgery (NSS) is increasingly utilized to treat patients with bilateral Wilms tumor. We present a case of NSS planning using a three‐dimensional computerized and printed model of both kidneys with anatomical structures of interest (parenchyma, renal pelvis, major calyx, renal artery, renal vein, and tumor). This model allowed a better understanding of the anatomic relation between the tumor and the normal kidney on each side, improving the surgical planning and the preoperative discussion with the patient's family.
Treatment‐related mortality in relapsed childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Oskarsson Trausti , Söderhäll Stefan , Arvidson Johan , Forestier Erik , Frandsen Thomas Leth , Hellebostad Marit , Lähteenmäki Päivi , Jónsson Ólafur G. , Myrberg Ida Hed , Heyman Mats ,   On Behalf of the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (NOPHO) ALL Relapse Working Group
Published: December 2017

Background

Treatment of relapsed childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is particularly challenging due to the high treatment intensity needed to induce and sustain a second remission. To improve results, it is important to understand how treatment‐related toxicity impacts survival.

Procedure

In this retrospective population‐based study, we described the causes of death and estimated the risk for treatment‐related mortality in patients with first relapse of childhood ALL in the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology ALL‐92 and ALL‐2000 trials.

Results

Among the 483 patients who received relapse treatment with curative intent, we identified 52 patients (10.8%) who died of treatment‐related causes. Twelve of these died before achieving second remission and 40 died in second remission. Infections were the cause of death in 38 patients (73.1%), predominantly bacterial infections during the chemotherapy phases of the relapse treatment. Viral infections were more common following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in second remission. Independent risk factors for treatment‐related mortality were as follows: high‐risk stratification at relapse (hazard ratio [HR] 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3–3.9; P < 0.01), unfavorable cytogenetic aberrations (HR 3.4; 95% CI 1.3–9.2; P = 0.01), and HSCT (HR 4.64; 95% CI 2.17–9.92; P < 0.001). In contrast to previous findings, we did not observe any statistically significant sex or age differences. Interestingly, none of the 17 patients with Down syndrome died of treatment‐related causes.

Conclusions

Fatal treatment complications contribute significantly to the poor overall survival after relapse. Implementation of novel therapies with reduced toxicity and aggressive supportive care management are important to improve survival in relapsed childhood ALL.
Comparison of mechanical reinforcement effects of cellulose nanocrystal, cellulose nanofiber, and microfibrillated cellulose in starch composites
Authors: Cheng Geng , Zhou Mi , Wei Yu‐Jun , Cheng Fei , Zhu Pu‐Xin
Published: December 2017

In this work, cellulose nanocrystal (CNC), cellulose nanofiber (CNF), and microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) are used to reinforce starch to obtain high‐performance starch nanocomposites by film casting. The results show that MFC is a highly efficient filler to reinforce starch compared with CNC and CNF. Largely enhanced tensile strength and modulus have been achieved (3.1 MPa, 146.7 MPa for pure starch, 10.6 MPa, 757.4 MPa for starch/MFC composite). Moreover, starch/nanocellulose nanocomposites prepared in this work exhibit excellent transparency and thermostability. Most importantly, the results of sizing performances of the nanocomposites reveal that adding of 3 wt% MFC in starch has obviously enhanced the adhesiveness of sizes to fibers. Our work may help lay a foundation for preparation of high‐performance starch/MFC sizing agents, and contribute to largely expanding the industrial application of CNFs. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E365–E372, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Fabrication and characterization of bio‐inspired polymer blends and hybrid composites based on collagen‐type II, polyethylene glycol‐dimethacrylate and hydroxyapatite
Authors: Ain Qurat Ul , Khan Ahmad Nawaz
Published: December 2017

The morphology, mechanical properties and bioactivity of collagen/polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate (PGD) blends as well as collagen/PGD/hydroxyapatite hybrid composites are evaluated for tissue regeneration applications. PGD concentrations are varied from 8 to 20 wt% in collagen and photocrosslinked with UV light to develop well shaped sustainable samples. With increasing PGD concentration, the network density of the collagen is increased to improve the sample fidelity. The compressive modulus is increased from 4 to 14.5 kPa along with the improvement in cell viability and proliferation with increasing PGD concentration in collagen. For hybrid composites, the hydroxyapatite (HA) concentration is varied from 1 to 10 wt% in collagen/PGD‐16 wt% which is improved further not only the network density but also the sample fidelity. The modulus of the hybrid composites is further enhanced up to 20 kPa. Cell proliferation and viability is significantly increased up to 100% and cells reached to 99% confluency particularly in collagen/PGD/HA (10wt %) system. Moreover, the morphology of cells changed from spherical to flattened spread morphology with increasing concentrations of HA demonstrating clearly the migration of the cells for the formation of interconnected cellular network. Overall, the hybrid composites show superior mechanical properties along with enhanced cytocompatibility for tissue engineering applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E550–E560, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Managing technical risks in PV investments: How to quantify the impact of risk mitigation measures for different PV project phases?
Authors: Jahn Ulrike , Herz Magnus , Moser David , Belluardo Giorgio , Richter Mauricio
Published: December 2017

Project investment has been and still is a primary financial factor in enabling sustainable growth in photovoltaic (PV) installations. When assessing the investment worthiness of a PV project, different financial stakeholders such as investors, lenders, and insurers will evaluate the impact and probability of investment risks differently depending on their investment goals. Similarly, risk mitigation measures implemented are subject to the investment perspective. For the calculation of the economic impact of technical risks during PV plant operation, a method was developed to assign a cost priority number (CPN) to each failure given in €/kWp or €/kWp per year. This CPN method was introduced in the Solar Bankability Project and can be described as a cost‐based failure mode effect analysis. The methodology has been further developed for the evaluation and effectiveness of the identified mitigation measures. Risk mitigation factors are introduced, which quantify the reduction of the economic impact of technical risks, achieved via the reduction of failure occurrence or reduction of costs for fixing the failures (ie, repair of existing component, substitution by spare component, and substitution by new component).

Mitigation measures were identified along the entire value chain and assigned to various technical risks. The new CPN (CPNnew) value arises from the cost‐benefit analysis by adding the CPN after mitigation to the cost of the mitigation measures. The FIXING costs for selected failures were calculated when applying combinations of 8 selected mitigation measures. The aim of this work is to create a framework of well‐defined mitigation measures, which have an impact on the global CPN (given as sum of CPNs of all technical risks). The cost‐benefit analysis can then include the combination of various mitigation measures and derive the best strategy depending on market segment and PV plant typology. In addition to this, it is important to assess in the CPN analysis who will bear the cost and the risk to derive considerations not only on the overall economic impact of the technical risks, but also on cost and risk ownership.
Do treatment patterns alter beliefs cancer patients hold regarding oral oncolytic agents?
Authors: Sikorskii Alla , Given Charles W. , Given Barbara A. , Vachon Eric , Marshall Victoria , Krauss John C. , Banik Asish , Majumder Atreyee
Published: December 2017

Objective

Cancer patients, particularly those prescribed with oral oncolytic medications, face treatment side effects and temporary and permanent stoppages of treatment. This research examines how events during treatment affect patients' beliefs regarding oral oncolytic medications.

Methods

A total of 272 cancer patients initiating 1 of 28 oral oncolytic agents were followed for 12 weeks. Assessments of Beliefs About Medications Questionnaire, symptoms, physical function, and depression measures were performed during telephone interviews at intake (medication start) and 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Electronic medical record audits identified dates of temporary and permanent medication stoppages. Linear mixed‐effects models were used for longitudinal analyses of the Beliefs About Medications Questionnaire scores in relation to patient characteristics, symptom severity, and medication stoppages.

Results

Over the initial 12 weeks, beliefs about the necessity of oral medications have increased, concerns have decreased, and interference of medications with daily lives has increased. Permanent stoppage of a medication predicted significant declines in beliefs about its necessity over time. Male patients, those less educated, those reporting higher symptom severity, and those experiencing temporary stoppages had greater concerns. Interference of medications with daily life was higher for males, increased with higher symptom severity, and differed by drug category.

Conclusions

Patients' beliefs in the necessity of their oral medication were affected only by a permanent drug stoppage. Symptom severity, education, and patient sex affected patients' beliefs about their concerns with their medications and the interference medications posed for their daily lives. Interventions may need to target the distinct dimensions of beliefs during treatment with oral oncolytic agents.
A novel case‐control subsampling approach for rapid model exploration of large clustered binary data
Authors: Wright Stephen T. , Ryan Louise M. , Pham Tung
Published: December 2017

In many settings, an analysis goal is the identification of a factor, or set of factors associated with an event or outcome. Often, these associations are then used for inference and prediction. Unfortunately, in the big data era, the model building and exploration phases of analysis can be time‐consuming, especially if constrained by computing power (ie, a typical corporate workstation). To speed up this model development, we propose a novel subsampling scheme to enable rapid model exploration of clustered binary data using flexible yet complex model set‐ups (GLMMs with additive smoothing splines). By reframing the binary response prospective cohort study into a case‐control–type design, and using our knowledge of sampling fractions, we show one can approximate the model estimates as would be calculated from a full cohort analysis. This idea is extended to derive cluster‐specific sampling fractions and thereby incorporate cluster variation into an analysis. Importantly, we demonstrate that previously computationally prohibitive analyses can be conducted in a timely manner on a typical workstation. The approach is applied to analysing risk factors associated with adverse reactions relating to blood donation.
Dynamic prediction in functional concurrent regression with an application to child growth
Authors: Leroux Andrew , Xiao Luo , Crainiceanu Ciprian , Checkley William
Published: December 2017

In many studies, it is of interest to predict the future trajectory of subjects based on their historical data, referred to as dynamic prediction. Mixed effects models have traditionally been used for dynamic prediction. However, the commonly used random intercept and slope model is often not sufficiently flexible for modeling subject‐specific trajectories. In addition, there may be useful exposures/predictors of interest that are measured concurrently with the outcome, complicating dynamic prediction. To address these problems, we propose a dynamic functional concurrent regression model to handle the case where both the functional response and the functional predictors are irregularly measured. Currently, such a model cannot be fit by existing software. We apply the model to dynamically predict children's length conditional on prior length, weight, and baseline covariates. Inference on model parameters and subject‐specific trajectories is conducted using the mixed effects representation of the proposed model. An extensive simulation study shows that the dynamic functional regression model provides more accurate estimation and inference than existing methods. Methods are supported by fast, flexible, open source software that uses heavily tested smoothing techniques.
A Multifunctional Carbohydrazide‐Based Chromofluorescent Sensor for the Selective Detection of Cu(II) and Zn(II) Ion
Authors: Swami Suman , Agarwala Arunava , Verma Ved Prakash , Shrivastava Rahul
Published: December 2017

A series of multifunctional carbohydrazide based chromofluorescent sensor molecules derived from carbohydrazide, 4‐formyl‐1‐substituted phenyl‐pyrazole‐3‐carboxylate and 2‐hydroxy‐naphthaldehyde were successfully designed and synthesized. The synthesized sensor molecules exhibit significant red shift in their absorption spectra with visual color changes on interaction with Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions. In addition, the optimized sensor showed excellent selectivity towards Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions with fluorescence “turn off” and “turn on” modes respectively. Along with this, anion recognition studies were carried out using UV‐visible and fluorescence spectrophotometric titrations which revealed that synthesized sensors also exhibit selective sensing of F−, CH3COO− and H2PO4− ions via H‐bond interaction and subsequent deprotonation to elicit distinct visual color change from light yellow to orange with significant quenching in its emission intensity. Furthermore, the in‐situ prepared sensor‐anion adduct solution exhibited colorimetric “On‐Off” sensing of Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions, which was confirmed through UV‐visible titration experiments.
Template‐Free Synthesis of High‐Content Vanadium‐Doped ZSM‐5 with Enhanced Catalytic Performance
Authors: Liu Xianfeng , Zhong Shenglai , Yang Fu , Su Hang , Lin Wei , Chen Junchao , Peng Luming , Zhou Shijian , Kong Yan
Published: December 2017

The high cost of preparation of transition metal doped ZSM‐5 zeolite is limited to the use of organic template such as tetrapropylammonium hydroxide or tetrapropylammonium bromide. In this work, vanadium atom was successfully incorporated into the framework of ZSM‐5 zeolite without using any organic template. Moreover, the method not only decreases the preparation cost of vanadium doped ZSM‐5, but also greatly enhances the utilization ratio of vanadium atom. Vanadium atom mainly exists as tetrahedral coordination in the framework of ZSM‐5 which was demonstrated by the ultraviolet visible and X‐ray photoelectron spectrum. Furthermore, vanadium doped ZSM‐5 performs high and stability catalytic activity in the oxidation of styrene compared to that of the catalyst prepared by the traditional organic template method ascribe to the greatly increase of tetrahedral vanadium species.
Mixing of a Viscoplastic Fluid in Cylindrical Vessels Equipped with Paddle Impellers
Authors: Ameur Houari
Published: December 2017

The mixing characteristics of a complex fluid by paddle impellers in cylindrical reactors are explored in this paper. The working fluid has a shear thinning behavior with yield stress. The Hershel‐Bulkley model is used to describe the rheological behavior of fluid. The paddle impeller has two blades and it rotates at low Reynolds number varying in the range from 0.1 to 70. Effect of blade height (h/D=0.1, 0.4, 0.7 and 0.95), blade width (d/D=0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8) and Reynolds number on cavern size and power consumption are explored. With a great blade height, the obtained results revealed the formation of a dead zone near the blade tip at low Reynolds number. This poor mixing region disappear with a sufficient impeller rotational speed: from Rey=30 found with this kind of fluid. Two recirculation loops are observed with an excessive increased blade width (with d/D=0.8 found here). The well‐mixed region size will be enlarged with the rise of blade size, but with an additional energy cost. Also, the rise of Reynolds number permits a reduction in energy consumption and an enhancement in cavern size.