bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of single‐image normalized difference vegetation index (SI‐NDVI) for early plant stress detection
Authors: Beisel Nicole S. , Callaham Jordan B. , Sng Natasha J. , Taylor Dylan J. , Paul Anna‐Lisa , Ferl Robert J.
Published: October 2018

Premise of the Study

An imaging system was refined to monitor the health of vegetation grown in controlled conditions using spectral reflectance patterns. To measure plant health, the single‐image normalized difference vegetation index (SI‐NDVI) compares leaf reflectance in visible and near‐infrared light spectrums.

Methods and Results

The SI‐NDVI imaging system was characterized to assess plant responses to stress before visual detection during controlled stress assays. Images were analyzed using Fiji image processing software and Microsoft Excel to create qualitative false color images and quantitative graphs to detect plant stress.

Conclusions

Stress was detected in Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings within 15 min of salinity application using SI‐NDVI analysis, before stress was visible. Stress was also observed during ammonium nitrate treatment of Eruca sativa plants before visual detection. Early detection of plant stress is possible using SI‐NDVI imaging, which is both simpler to use and more cost efficient than traditional dual‐image NDVI or hyper‐spectral imaging.
Euxanthone Impairs the Metastatic Potential of Osteosarcoma by Reducing COX‐2 Expression
Authors: Chen Xiaodong , Deng Min , Zhou Xinshe , Wang Xuyi , Ye Yuchen , Zhu Jun , Jiang Huafeng , Chen Xiaotian , Zha Wenju
Published: October 2018

Osteosarcoma (OS) is one of the most common malignancies of bone. This study was aimed to explore the anti‐metastatic effect of euxanthone on OS. Adhesion assay and Transwell assay were used to examine the effect of euxanthone on adhesion, migration and invasion of OS cells. COX‐2‐over‐expressing plasmid was applied to transfect OS cells to assess whether COX‐2 affects the anti‐metastatic function of euxanthone. PDCD4 knockdown and miR‐21 mimic were applied to assess whether euxanthone suppresses the transactivation of c‐jun via modulating miR‐21‐PDCD4 signaling. The effect of euxanthone in vivo was also examined by lung metastasis assay. Euxanthone, a xanthone derivative extracted from Polygala caudata, has been found to exhibit anti‐neoplastic activities. In present study, our results showed that euxanthone suppressed cell adhesion, migration, and invasion in OS cells. Our experimental data also showed that repression of COX‐2 by euxanthone mediated its anti‐metastatic activities. Moreover, our findings revealed that euxanthone modulated the COX‐2 expression through the miR‐21/PDCD4/c‐jun signaling pathway. The anti‐metastatic activities of euxanthone were also validated in a pulmonary metastasis model. Taken together, our results highlighted the potential of euxanthone to be used in the treatment of OS. Anat Rec, 302:1399–1408, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cross‐Coupling Reactions of Alkenyl Halides with 4‐Benzyl‐1,4‐ Dihydropyridines Associated with E to Z Isomerization under Nickel and Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Nakajima Kazunari , Guo Xifeng , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: October 2018

Cross‐coupling reactions of alkenyl halides with 4‐alkyl‐1,4‐dihydropyridines as alkylation reagents have been achieved by combination of nickel and photoredox catalysts. Alkenyl halides bearing alkyl and aryl substituents are available. Particularly, in the use of aryl‐substituted alkenyl halides, cross‐coupling reactions are associated with E to Z isomerization of alkenes. Thus, Z‐isomers of the products are obtained as major products. The present strategy provides a novel synthetic method to control the stereochemistry around alkenes.
Einfluss ermüdungsinduzierter Mikrorisse in Betonbauteilen auf den Eintrag flüssiger Medien
Authors: Breitenbücher Rolf , Przondziono Robin
Published: October 2018

Die Dauerhaftigkeit von Betonbauteilen wird nachhaltig durch das Vordringen betonschädigender bzw. korrosionsfördernder Stoffe (Kohlendioxid, Chloride, Säuren, Sulfate, Alkalien usw.) in das Betongefüge bestimmt. Um diese Prozesse gering zu halten, wird vor allem auf ein dichtes Gefüge der Mörtelmatrix durch entsprechend niedrigen Wasserzementwert geachtet. Werden Betonbauteile während ihrer Nutzung zyklisch beansprucht, findet im Betongefüge sehr schnell eine Degradation in Form von mikrostrukturellen Schädigungen statt. Diese zeigen sich nicht makroskopisch, sondern in Form von feinsten Mikrorissen mit Breiten von etwa 5–15 μm in der Mörtelmatrix. Diese begünstigen wiederum den Eintrag von flüssigen Medien und damit auch betonangreifenden Stoffen.

Typische Beispiele hierfür sind Verkehrsflächen aus Beton, die zum einen durch Verkehrslasten hohen zyklischen Beanspruchungen ausgesetzt sind, zum anderen im Winter mit alkalihaltigen Taumitteln beaufschlagt werden. Solch eine externe Alkalizufuhr begünstigt eine betonschädigende Allkali‐Kieselsäure‐Reaktion (AKR) nachhaltig. Ähnlich verhält es sich auch bei Offshore‐Windenergieanlagen im Meerwasser.

In einschlägigen Untersuchungen lag der Fokus auf der Charakterisierung der Degradationseffekte auf mikrostruktureller Ebene des Betons sowie auf dem Transportverhalten von flüssigen Medien in sowohl intaktes als auch so vorgeschädigtes Betongefüge.
Ni2P Nanoflake Array/Three Dimensional Graphene Architecture as Integrated Free‐Standing Anode for Boosting the Sodiation Capability and Stability
Authors: Li Huijun , Wang Xiaomin , Zhao Zhenxin , Tian Zhen , Zhang Ding , Wu Yucheng
Published: October 2018

Research on transition‐metal phosphides for sodium‐ion battery anodes has received increasing attention owing to their high theoretically specific capacity. Unfortunately, the high volume expansion limits their further applications. Herein, a nanoflakes array Ni2P/three‐dimensional graphene in‐situ grown on Ni foam (Ni2P/3DG) is designed as free‐standing anode material. The structure characterization indicated that the Ni2P nanoflakes were combined with 3DG uniformly. The ultrasmall particle size and uniform distribution of the Ni2P/3DG particles plays a major role for the excellent reversible capacity (402.6 mAh g−1 at 200 mA g−1 over 100 cycles), remarkable rate capability (273.3 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1, the capacity return to 603.6 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1) and high initial coulombic efficiency (about 88.28 %). Moreover, the Ni2P/3DG showed low volume expansion (166.9 %) and no obvious sharp dendrite growth after 200 cycles. The enhanced electrochemical performance is ascribed to the synergistic effect between 3DG and Ni2P. The nanoflake array can buffer the volume expansion and shorten the Na+ diffusion path. 3DG provides a conductive channel for charge transfer. The storage mechanism is related to a diffusion‐controlled process and capacitive behavior. Additionally, the Ni2P/3DG also reduces dendritic problems, improving safety and stability and has a great potential for Na‐storage.
Solid‐Liquid Separation
Authors: Anlauf Harald
Published: October 2018

Auf der diesjährigen ACHEMA war die Fest/Flüssig‐Trenntechnik wieder in gewohnter Weise zahlreich vertreten. Neben einer großen Zahl etablierter Produkte und vielen Detailverbesserungen waren auch immer wieder interessante Neuentwicklungen zu beobachten. Ein besonders auffälliger neuer Trend war die häufige Präsentation von Spezialbrillen, mit denen Besucher Apparate und Maschinen in Augmented oder Virtual Reality erleben konnten. Exemplarisch werden aus dem gesamten Spektrum der Fest/Flüssig‐Trenntechnik von den Sedimentations‐ und Filterzentrifugen über Vakuum‐, Druck‐ und Pressfilter, Rückspül‐, Querstrom‐ und Tiefenfilter sowie Filtermedien und Filterhilfsmitteln Beispiele für die auf ACHEMA präsentierte Trenntechnik gegeben.
Distillation at ACHEMA 2018
Authors: Ehlers Christoph
Published: October 2018

Die Destillation ist bis heute eines der wichtigsten thermischen Trennverfahren in der chemischen Industrie. In der Regel werden die Trennaufgaben mithilfe von Rektifikationskolonnen gelöst, die mit trennwirksamen Einbauten wie Böden, Füllkörpern oder strukturierten Packungen versehen sind. Auf der diesjährigen ACHEMA präsentierten wieder zahlreiche Anbieter dieser Einbauten ihre Neu‐ und Weiterentwicklungen. Im Folgenden wird eine Auswahl unterschiedlicher Produktneuheiten vorgestellt.
Efficacy of a survivorship‐focused consultation versus a time‐controlled rehabilitation consultation in patients with lymphoma: A cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Parker Patricia A. , Banerjee Smita C. , Matasar Matthew J. , Bylund Carma L. , Rogers Madeline , Franco Kara , Schofield Elizabeth , Li Yuelin , Levin Tomer T. , Jacobsen Paul B. , Astrow Alan B. , Leventhal Howard , Horwitz Steven , Kissane David
Published: October 2018

Background

Survivors of cancer often describe a sense of abandonment after treatment along with heightened uncertainty and limited knowledge of what lies ahead. This study examined the efficacy of a survivorship care plan (SCP) intervention to help physicians to address survivorship issues through communication skills training plus a new consultation focused on the use of an SCP for patients with Hodgkin lymphoma and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma.

Methods

This 4‐site cluster randomized trial examined the efficacy of a survivorship planning consultation (SPC) in patients who achieved complete remission after the completion of first‐line therapy (for the SPC, physicians received communication skills training and, using an SCP, applied those skills in a survivorship‐focused office visit) versus a control arm in which physicians were trained in and subsequently provided a time‐controlled, manualized wellness rehabilitation consultation (WRC) focused only on discussion of healthy nutrition and exercise as rehabilitation after chemotherapy. The primary outcomes for patients were changes in knowledge about lymphoma and adherence to physicians’ recommendations for vaccinations and cancer screenings.

Results

Forty‐two physicians and 198 patients participated across the 4 sites. Patients whose physicians were in the SPC arm had greater knowledge about their lymphoma (P = .01) and showed greater adherence to physician recommendations for influenza vaccinations (P = .02) and colonoscopy (P = .02) than patients whose physicians were in the WRC arm.

Conclusions

A dedicated consultation using an SCP and supported by communication skills training may enhance patients’ knowledge and adherence to some health promotion recommendations.
Metal Nanoparticles Anchored on Rhenium Disulfide Nanosheets as Catalysts for the Reduction of Aromatic Nitro Compounds
Authors: Dhenadhayalan Namasivayam , Lin Ta‐Wei , Veerakumar Pitchaimani , Lin King‐Chuen
Published: October 2018

The nanohybrids of noble metal (M=Ag, Au, Pd, Pt, and Ru) nanoparticle‐decorated rhenium disulfide nanosheets (ReS2 NSs) were demonstrated as excellent catalysts towards the reduction of aromatic nitro compounds. The M/ReS2 nanohybrids were synthesized by facile hydrothermal method and characterization results proved that each metal nanoparticle was anchored on the ReS2 NSs. These nanohybrids exhibited superior catalytic performance towards the reduction of aromatic nitro compounds including 4‐nitrophenol, 2‐nitroaniline, and nitrobenzene. Interestingly, the Ru/ReS2 and Pd/ReS2 showed enhanced catalytic reduction compared to Ag/ReS2, Au/ReS2, and Pt/ReS2 and also showed significant catalytic stability due to metal nanoparticles anchored strongly on the surface of ReS2 NSs. Moreover, these M/ReS2 nanohybrids turned out to have much better catalytic performance compared to noble metal nanoparticle‐based catalysts. A plausible reduction mechanism was proposed for each nitro compound. It was verified that the metal‐nanoparticle‐mediated hydrogen transfer was involved in the reduction of nitro compounds to amines. This report demonstrates the catalytic activities for metal nanoparticle‐decorated ReS2 nanohybrids, which can serve as a paradigm to open up a future trend in the design of transition metal dichalcogenides nanohybrids as superior catalysts.
Study on tire‐ice traction using a combined neural network and secondary development finite element modeling method
Authors: Zhang Yuanchao , Gao Jingwei , Li Qiao
Published: October 2018

Research on tire‐ice traction theory is still in the basic stage, and there are large differences between the current theoretical calculation and engineering practice. Because testing of pneumatic tire performance on icy road is very expensive, and testing conditions are complex and variable, testing does not have higher repeatability. In this paper, a tire‐ice traction model is established based on a neural network and the finite‐element method. Through the model calculations, the traction characteristics of tires on ice can be well‐simulated. The method of combining the Levenberg‐Marquardt (LM) optimizing algorithm with the neural network is used to predict the friction between tires and ice. The attributive characteristics of tires based on testing results are then measured. A nonlinear finite‐element model of a 37 × 12.5R16.5 tire is established by adopting the Yeoh model of rubber and researching existing tire‐ice driving traction models. This tire‐ice finite‐element model can predict the changes of drawbar pull and torque when driving on icy roads, and two different tire working conditions, ie, straight line and turning, are taken into consideration simultaneously. The influence of slip ratio, speed, load on drawbar pull, and torque are also explored.
Pyrolysis of the Cellulose Fraction of Biomass in the Presence of Solid Acid Catalysts: An Operando Spectroscopy and Theoretical Investigation
Authors: Keturakis Christopher J. , Lapina Olga B. , Shubin Aleksandr A. , Terskikh Victor V. , Papulovskiy Evgeniy , Yudaev Ivan V. , Paukshtis Eugenii A. , Wachs Israel E.
Published: October 2018

Biomass pyrolysis by solid acid catalysts is one of many promising technologies for sustainable production of hydrocarbon liquid fuels and value‐added chemicals, but these complex chemical transformations are still poorly understood. A series of well‐defined model SiO2‐supported alumina catalysts were synthesized and molecularly characterized, under dehydrated conditions and during biomass pyrolysis, with the aim of establishing fundamental catalyst structure–activity/selectivity relationships. The nature and corresponding acidity of the supported AlOx nanostructures on SiO2 were determined with 27Al/1H NMR and IR spectroscopy of chemisorbed CO, and DFT calculations. Operando time‐resolved IR–Raman–MS spectroscopy studies revealed the molecular transformations taking place during biomass pyrolysis. The molecular transformations during biomass pyrolysis depended on both the domain size of the AlOx cluster and molecular nature of the biomass feedstock. These new insights allowed the establishment of fundamental structure–activity/selectivity relationships during biomass pyrolysis.
Introducing nurse‐led heart failure clinics in Swedish primary care settings
Authors: Liljeroos Maria , Strömberg Anna
Published: October 2018

Aim

According to clinical guidelines, it is recommended that patients with heart failure (HF) receive structured multidisciplinary care at nurse‐led HF clinics in order to optimise treatment and avoid preventable readmissions. Today, there are HF clinics with specialist‐trained nurses at almost all Swedish hospitals, but HF clinics remain scarce in primary care (PC). The aim of this study was two‐fold: firstly, to evaluate the effects of systematically implementing nurse‐led HF clinics in PC settings with regard to hospital healthcare utilisation and evidence‐based HF treatment, and secondly to explore patients' experiences of HF clinics in PC.

Methods and results

The study had a pre‐post design. Annual measurement were done between 2010–2017 regarding in‐hospital healthcare consumption and medical treatment. Data from 2011–2017 after the implementation of HF clinics in PC in one county council Sweden were compared with baseline data collected before the implementation in 2010. The implementation of HF clinics in PC significantly reduced the number of HF‐related hospital admissions by 27% (P < 0.001), HF hospital days by 27.3% (P < 0.001) and HF emergency room visits by 24% (P < 0.001). Further, patients were to a higher extent medically treated according to guidelines and satisfied with the care they received at the PC HF clinic.

Conclusion

Nurse‐led HF clinics in PC seem to be effective in reducing the need for in‐hospital care and provide high quality person‐centred care.
New Trends and Developments in Electric‐Utility Rates
Authors: Kelly Ted
Published: October 2018

Successful integration of renewable and distributed energy, as well as the reduction of the capital costs created by adding these new generation sources, is driving municipal utilities to look to new ways to structure their rates to continue to provide both competitive service and flexible resources.
Trump Administration Reforming Regulations, Creating and Continuing Litigation
Authors: Armstrong Haley , Leighty Carl
Published: October 2018

In response to the Trump administration's concern that the industrial sectors, including power, have experienced regulatory uncertainty through environmental regulations that hamper investments and market potential, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 13777, “Enforcing the Regulatory Reform Agenda,” on February 24, 2017. The goal of this policy is to alleviate unnecessary regulatory burdens by evaluating existing regulations and making recommendations to repeal, replace, or modify those deemed “burdensome.” The intent is to return government agencies—particularly the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)—to its “statutorily mandated levels of authority” and to provide clear, concise, and legally sound regulatory reform that enhances economic opportunity.
PURPA Reform Should Reflect Today's Energy‐Industry Realities
Authors: DeCotis Paul A.
Published: October 2018

Several attempts are being made to modify the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA) of 1978, recognizing the significant changes in energy markets since its enactment.
Reworking NEPA in the Age of Uncertainty
Authors: Russo Thomas N.
Published: October 2018

Implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) has over the years produced a lot of paper, delays, and a propensity to resolve disputes in the courts rather than through mediation. Current attempts by the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) to revise the NEPA regulations and procedures will fail unless a cooling‐off period coupled with dispute resolution with state agencies is established.
Time‐domain electromagnetic imaging of a clayey confining bed in a brackish environment: A case study in the Kairouan Plain Aquifer (Kelbia salt lake, Tunisia)
Authors: Finco Cécile , Pontoreau Coralie , Schamper Cyril , Massuel Sylvain , Hovhannissian Gaghik , Rejiba Fayçal
Published: October 2018

The semi‐arid Plio‐Quaternary aquifer of the Kairouan Plain is located in the central part of Tunisia. In this region, the main form of human activity is extensive agriculture. The few lithological logs in this area indicate that the aquifer is divided into two groundwater reservoirs separated by a confining clay layer. In the shallower groundwater reservoir, the electrical conductivity of the water is close to 1,200 mS/m, that is, 3 to 4 times higher than that of the deeper aquifer, which is currently used for irrigation. Recently, an increase in salinity has been observed, which is producing significant difficulties with irrigation. In order to determine the geometry of the confining clay layer and assess the potential connectivity between both reservoirs, time‐domain electromagnetic (TDEM) and vertical electrical soundings surveys were carried out. In the extremely conductive environment (electrical resistivities <10 Ωm) of the Sebkha Kelbia, the TDEM survey produced the first geophysical map of this near‐surface aquifer system.
Negative thoughts in depression: A study in Iran
Authors: Mohammadkhani Parvaneh , Bagheri Mahdi , Dobson Keith S. , Eskandari Elham , Dejman Masoumeh , Bass Judith , Abdi Fatemeh
Published: October 2018

The cognitive theory of depression proposes significant relations between negative thoughts and depression. Evidence for the model has been widely observed in Western countries. However, despite the high prevalence of depression in the Middle East (ME), there has been limited research that has evaluated the cognitive profiles of people living in this region, and especially in non‐Arab countries like Iran. The current research examined these relationships in Iran. Convenience sampling was used to recruit 80 depressed and 80 non‐depressed individuals via advertising in clinics and public areas, respectively. Depression status was checked with a structured interview, the Major Depressive Disorder subscale of the Psychiatric Diagnostic Screening Questionnaire, and the Beck Depression Inventory‐II. All participants completed the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire‐Negative to examine the frequency of negative automatic thoughts. Unlike other results from Arab countries, depressed participants indicated significantly more negative thoughts towards self and future compared with the non‐depressed group. The results of the present study are consistent with the negativity hypothesis of the cognitive theory of depression. Further research is needed in the in ME, to investigate other hypotheses of this theory in this region. Strengths and limitations of the present study are discussed.
Assessing sustainability of agricultural water saving in an arid area with shallow groundwater
Authors: Xue Jingyuan , Huo Zailin , Huang Quanzhong , Wang Fengxin , Boll Jan , Huang Guanhua , Qu Zhongyi
Published: October 2018

Agricultural water‐saving practices are important in order to cope with the increasing shortage of water resources in arid and semi‐arid areas. With water use efficiency and productivity being improved, however, more intense regional agricultural water‐saving practices may induce the reduction of vegetation coverage and also groundwater decline. We assess the sustainability of regional agricultural water‐saving practices in an arid area based on the analytic hierarchy process (APH). By calculating water use efficiency, economic benefit, social benefit and eco‐environmental effect, the sustainability of regional agricultural water savings can be comprehensively evaluated and classified using different sustainability evaluation scoring standards. As a case study, the method was used in the Jiefangzha irrigation district (JFID), and the sustainability of agricultural water saving was assessed from 1990 to 2009. The results indicate that economic benefit and social water‐saving awareness have increased dramatically since 1998. Water use efficiency and productivity have increased continuously, while the declining groundwater has had negative effects on vegetation coverage. Since 1998, the sustainability state shows an increasing trend with its all values above the alert line (0.4), and most of the sustainability values above the good line (0.6), which reveals a good condition of the sustainability of agricultural water savings in the JFID. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long noncoding RNA HOTAIR silencing inhibits invasion and proliferation of human colon cancer LoVo cells via regulating IGF2BP2
Authors: Wu Xue‐Liang , Lu Rui‐Yun , Wang Li‐Kun , Wang Yuan‐Yuan , Dai Yong‐Jun , Wang Chen‐Yu , Yang Yong‐Jiang , Guo Fei , Xue Jun , Yang Dong‐Dong
Published: October 2018

Colon cancer is one of the most life‐threatening malignancies worldwide. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) is a cancer‐associated biomarker involved in the metastasis and prognosis of several cancers. However, whether and how HOTAIR affects colon cancer progression is still unclear. Consequently, we used RNA interference to knock down HOTAIR to explore its effects on human colon cancer cells. The dual luciferase reporter gene assay was initially used for testify the regulating relationship between lncRNA HOTAIR and insulin‐like growth factor 2 mRNA‐binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2). We determined the expressions of HOTAIR, IGF2BP2, E‐cadherin, and vimentin. Meanwhile, cell growth, cycle and apoptosis, migration, and invasion were assayed. LoVo cells were transplanted into nude mice, and tumor formation and microvessel density were evaluated. LncRNA HOTAIR positively regulated IGF2BP2. Besides, the expressions of HOTAIR and E‐cadherin and the apoptosis were increased, while the expressions of IGF2BP2 and vimentin, the growth, invasion and migration of LoVo cells, the average tumor weight, and microvessel density value were decreased. Of importance, overexpressed IGF2BP2 could reverse the above impacts. Taken together, the current study indicates that silencing of HOTAIR could inhibit the invasion, proliferation, and migration, and promote apoptosis of colon cancer LoVo cells through suppressing IGF2BP2 and the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition.
Low expression of NCOA5 predicts poor prognosis in human cervical cancer and promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of cervical cancer cell lines by regulating notch3 signaling pathway
Authors: Liang Ying , Zhang Tianli , Shi Mengdie , Zhang Shuo , Guo Yaxing , Gao Jiwei , Yang Xingsheng
Published: October 2018

Nuclear receptor coactivator 5 (NCOA5) specifically enhances estrogen receptor α–modulated transcriptional activity. As a novel tumor suppressor, depletion of NCOA5 is associated with the development of a variety of tumors, but its function in cervical cancer is currently unclear. In this study, we addressed how expression of NCOA5 changed in the development of human cervical cancer and its association with clinicopathological features, prognosis, and biology characteristics of cervical cancer. Analysis of the microarrays in the Oncomine database indicated that NCOA5 expression was lower in human cervical squamous cell carcinoma tissues than that in normal cervical tissues. That was corroborated by our experiments using fresh tissues: the expression levels of NCOA5 messenger RNA and protein were both significantly decreased in cervical cancer tissues compared with paired adjacent nontumor tissues (P < 0.01). Low expression of NCOA5 is associated with the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage (
P = 0.043) and histological grade (
P = 0.018) of human cervical cancer. In addition, patients possessing low NCOA5 expression had poorer prognosis. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses indicated that low NCOA5 expression may be an independent prognostic factor for poorer overall survival in cervical cancer. Further, downregulation of NCOA5 expression results in a significant increase in proliferation, migration, and invasion of HeLa cells. Data of xenograft tumor on BALB/c nude mice manifested that HeLa cells with low NCOA5 expression tend to form larger tumors than negative control ones. In contrast, overexpression of NCOA5 expression leads to the opposite results. Finally, we found that NCOA5 might affect the biological function of human cervical cancer cells by mediating the notch3 signaling pathway. These findings suggest that NCOA5 acts as a tumor suppressor to inhibit tumorigenicity, migration, and invasion, and thus represents a potential novel prognostic marker for overall survival in cervical cancer.
Influenza A virus neuraminidase protein interacts with Hsp90, to stabilize itself and enhance cell survival
Authors: Kumar Purnima , Gaur Pratibha , Kumari Rashmi , Lal Sunil K
Published: October 2018

Neuraminidase protein (NA) of influenza A virus (IAV) is popularly known for its sialidase function to assist in the release of progeny virus. However, involvement of NA in other stages of the IAV life cycle also indicates its multifunctional nature and necessity to interact with other host proteins. Here, we report a host protein—heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), as a novel interacting partner of IAV NA. A classical yeast two‐hybrid screen was conducted to identify a new host interacting partner for NA and the interaction was further validated by coimmunoprecipitation from cells, transiently expressing both proteins and also from IAV‐infected cells. Confocal imaging showed that both proteins colocalized in the cytoplasm in transfected host cells. Interestingly, increased levels of NA in the presence of Hsp90 was observed, which tends to decrease if adenosine triphosphatase activity of Hsp90 is inhibited using 17‐N‐allylamino‐17‐demethoxygeldanamycin (17AAG). This establishes viral NA as a client protein of host chaperone Hsp90 contributing toward NA's stability via the NA‐Hsp90 interaction. This is the first report showing the interaction of NA with Hsp90 and its role in stabilizing viral NA thus preventing it from degradation. Enhanced cell survival in the presence of this interaction was also observed, thus suggesting the requirement of stable viral NA, post‐IAV infection, for efficient virus production in infected mammalian cells.
A new therapy for each patient: Evidence‐based relationships and responsiveness
Authors: Norcross John C. , Wampold Bruce E.
Published: October 2018

In this study, we introduce the journal issue devoted to evidence‐based responsiveness and frame it within the work of the third interdivisional APA Task Force on Evidence‐Based Relationships and Responsiveness. We summarize the meta‐analytic results and clinical practices on the adaptations of psychotherapy to multiple transdiagnostic characteristics of the patient, including attachment style, culture (race/ethnicity), gender identity, coping style, therapy preferences, reactance level, religion and spirituality, sexual orientation, and stages of change. We then discuss the clinical and research process of determining what works, and what does not work, for whom. The limitations of the Task Force’s work are outlined and frequently asked questions are addressed. The article closes with the Task Force’s formal conclusions and 28 recommendations and with some reflections on fitting psychotherapy to the individual client.
Combination therapy for the treatment of pancreatic cancer through hyaluronic acid‐decorated nanoparticles loaded with quercetin and gemcitabine: A preliminary in vitro study
Authors: Serri Carla , Quagliariello Vincenzo , Iaffaioli Rosario Vincenzo , Fusco Sabato , Botti Gerardo , Mayol Laura , Biondi Marco
Published: October 2018

Combination chemotherapy by means of two or more drugs is prone to suppressing or discouraging the inception of multidrug resistance, exploiting the fact that diverse drugs act in different points of the cellular cycle of amplifying tumor cells. For example, the combination of gemcitabine (GMC) with quercetin (QCT) showed a synergistic effect in inhibiting the migration of pancreatic cancer cells. Consequently, herein GMC and QCT have been loaded within biodegradable nanoparticles (NPs) based on poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid), externally decorated with hyaluronic acid (HA; viz., PPHA NPs), which plays a major role in drug targeting to tumors due to its ability to specifically interact with CD44 receptor, that is overexpressed in many tumors. The produced HA‐decorated NPs loaded with GMC and QCT showed an improved cytotoxicity and cellular uptake toward two cell lines of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, namely Mia‐PaCa‐2 and PANC‐1, compared with both the bare drugs and the drugs loaded in NPs which do not expose HA on the surface. HA‐decorated NPs were also able to improve the anti‐inflammatory properties of QCT, therefore leading to a decrease of interleukin cellular levels in both cell lines, preliminarily stimulated with lipopolysaccharides. This result is of special interest also considering the crucial role of interleukins in progression, metastatic processes, and drug resistance of human pancreas cancer cells.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Exposure — Safety Analyses of Nivolumab in Patients With Relapsed or Refractory Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Wang Xiaoli , Ludwig Elizabeth A. , Passarell Julie , Bello Akintunde , Roy Amit , Hruska Matthew W.
Published: October 2018

Nivolumab, a fully human immunoglobulin G4 monoclonal anti‐programmed death‐1 antibody, has demonstrated clinical benefits in multiple tumors, including classical Hodgkin lymphoma. The aim of this study was to characterize the pharmacokinetics (PK) of nivolumab in patients with classical Hodgkin lymphoma using a population approach and to assess the exposure‐response (E‐R) relationship for safety, thereby supporting the dose recommendation in patients with classical Hodgkin lymphoma. Nivolumab PK and the effect of covariates were consistent with that observed in solid tumors, except that baseline clearance of nivolumab was lower in patients with classical Hodgkin lymphoma by 28%. The E‐R analysis for safety, characterized by a Cox proportional hazards model, indicated that the resulting increased nivolumab exposure (average concentration after the first dose) was not a significant predictor of the risk of grade ≥3 drug‐related adverse events. Given the acceptable safety profile and observed benefit (65% objective response rate) with the nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 week dosing regimen for classical Hodgkin lymphoma, together with the flat E‐R safety relationship, nivolumab demonstrated a favorable benefit‐risk profile across the range of exposures of 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks in patients with classical Hodgkin lymphoma. Additional model‐based simulation suggested that a flat dose of 240 mg every 2 weeks was predicted to produce similar exposures to that of 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks. Therefore, nivolumab 240 mg every 2 weeks is the recommended dosing regimen in the classical Hodgkin lymphoma population.
Efficient Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Pyrido[3′,2′:4,5]thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidines and Their Fused [1,2,4]triazole Derivatives
Authors: Sanad Sherif M. H. , Hawass Mahmoud A. E. , Ahmed Ahmed A. M. , Elneairy Mohamed A. A.
Published: October 2018

Both 3‐aminothieno[2,3‐b]pyridine‐2‐carboxamide derivative 4 and bis(3‐aminothieno[2,3‐b]pyridine‐2‐carboxamide) derivative 6 are prepared, starting with pyridine‐2(1H)‐thione derivative 1 incorporating 1,3‐diarylpyrazole moiety, and were taken as starting materials for the present study. Two different synthetic routes are described for the synthesis of the target materials bis(pyridothieno[1,2,3]triazin‐4‐(3H)‐one) derivative 7 and bis(pyridothienopyrimidin‐4(3H)‐one) derivatives 10 and 13. Pyridothienopyrimidin‐4(3H)‐one derivative 14 is used as a synthetic precursor for the preparation of 4‐hydrazinylpyridothieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidine derivative 18a. Compound 18a was reacted with acetylacetone to prepare the corresponding 4‐(3,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐1‐yl)pyrimidine derivative 19. Compound 18a was reacted with several reagents such as carbon disulfide to synthesize the corresponding derivatives 24–27 incorporating fused [1,2,4]triazole ring. Moreover, 2,4‐dihydrazinylpyridothieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidine derivative 31 was prepared starting from 3‐aminothieno[2,3‐b]pyridine‐2‐carbonitrile derivative 28. Compound 31 was reacted with each of acetylacetone and formic acid to afford the corresponding 2,4‐bis(3,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐1‐yl)pyrimidine derivative 32 and bis([1,2,4]triazolo)[4,3‐a:4′,3′‐c]pyrimidine derivative 33, respectively. Elucidation of the structures of target molecules are achieved using elemental analyses and spectral data.
Comparison of statistical and dynamical downscaling methods for seasonal‐scale winter precipitation predictions over north India
Authors: Tiwari P. R. , Kar S. C. , Mohanty U. C. , Dey S. , Sinha P. , Shekhar M. S. , Sokhi R. S.
Published: October 2018

The main aim of the present study is to analyse the capabilities of two downscaling approaches (statistical and dynamical) in predicting wintertime seasonal precipitation over north India. For this purpose, a canonical correlation analysis (CCA) based statistical downscaling approach and dynamical downscaling approach (at 30 km) with an optimized configuration of the regional climate model (RegCM) nested in coarse resolution global spectral model have been used for a period of 28 years (1982–2009). For CCA, nine predictors (precipitation, zonal and meridional winds at 850 and 200 hPa, temperature at 200 hPa and sea surface temperatures) over three different domains were selected. The predictors were chosen based on the statistically significant teleconnection maps and physically based relationships between precipitation over the study region and meteorological variables. The validation revealed that both the downscaling approaches provided improved precipitation forecasts compared to the global model. Reasons for improved prediction by downscaling techniques have been examined. The improvement mainly comes due to better representation of orography, westerly moisture transport and vertical pressure velocity in the regional climate model. Furthermore, two bias correction methods namely quantile mapping (QM) and mean bias‐remove (MBR) have been applied on downscaled RegCM, statistically downscaled CCA as well as the global model products. It was found that when the QM‐based bias correction is applied on dynamically downscaled RegCM products, it has better skill in predicting wintertime precipitation over the study region compared to the CCA‐based statistical downscaling. Overall, the results indicate that the QM‐based bias‐corrected downscaled RegCM model is a useful tool for wintertime seasonal‐scale precipitation prediction over north India.
Impact of the North American monsoon on wildfire activity in the southwest United States
Authors: Nauslar Nicholas J. , Hatchett Benjamin J. , Brown Timothy J. , Kaplan Michael L. , Mejia John F.
Published: October 2018

The North American monsoon (NAM) is an annual climate system phenomenon that develops over the Sierra Madre Occidental in western Mexico and spreads northwards into the southwest United States from June through September bringing large quantities of rainfall and lightning, which can vary greatly on intra‐ and inter‐annual timescales. The timing of the NAM onset can lengthen or shorten the wildfire season in the southwest United States. Here we determine NAM onset thresholds and subsequent dates for the Southwest Area (SWA; Arizona, New Mexico, west Texas, and Oklahoma panhandle) and each SWA Predictive Services Area (PSA) April through September from 1995–2013. Various wildfire activity thresholds were defined to capture days or events associated with increased wildfire activity that are considered “busy” by wildland fire management in the context of an impact on firefighting resources. These defined thresholds allow for a unique examination of the relationship between the NAM and wildfire. Self‐organizing maps (SOMs), utilizing 500‐hPa geopotential heights and precipitable water, were implemented to identify atmospheric patterns contributing to the NAM onset and “busy” days for the SWA and each PSA. Map types from the SOMs analysis showed the transition to, during, and from the NAM. Northwards and eastwards displacements of the subtropical ridge over the SWA were associated with NAM onset. Restructuring of the subtropical ridge in time (i.e., amplification or breakdown) as inferred from map types over the SWA was directly associated with increased wildfire activity. By identifying atmospheric patterns pertinent to busy days of wildfire activity and a wildfire‐based perspective of the NAM in the SWA, fire weather forecasters can proactively identify potential periods that may be particularly impactful on wildfire suppression resources.
Ginkgo biloba sarcotesta polysaccharide inhibits inflammatory responses through suppressing both NF‐κB and MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Ye Jing , Ye Changqing , Huang Yayan , Zhang Na , Zhang Xueqin , Xiao Meitian
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Polysaccharides, common components of natural products extensively studied as dietary supplements and functional foods, have been found to have various activities. In the present study, a water‐soluble polysaccharide, namely GBSP3a, was isolated and purified from G. biloba sarcotesta. The anti‐inflammatory activity of GBSP3a in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced RAW264.7 macrophages and the potential underlying molecular mechanisms were then assessed.

RESULTS

GBSP3a exerted its anti‐inflammatory effect by remarkably inhibiting the secretion of pro‐inflammatory mediators and cytokines, including nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) in LPS‐stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Excessive mRNA and protein expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) were dose‐dependently inhibited by GBSP3a in LPS‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Further research suggested that the anti‐inflammatory effect of GBSP3a can be attributed to the modulation of the NF‐κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

GBSP3a exhibits anti‐inflammatory activity and exerts its anti‐inflammatory effect probably through suppressing both NF‐κB and MAPK signaling pathway, indicating that GBSP3a could be used for the development of anti‐inflammatory agent or nutraceuticals. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of microbial and chemical contaminants on the yield and quality of ethanol from wheat grains
Authors: Bartkiene Elena , Juodeikiene Grazina , Zadeike Daiva , Baliukoniene Violeta , Bakutis Bronius , Cizeikiene Dalia
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Higher alcohols and esters have a negative impact on ethanol quality; therefore, to analyze the influence of mycotoxins and pesticides on higher alcohols and esters formation during ethanol production from contaminated cereal grains is of outstanding importance.

RESULTS

In this study, the yield of ethanol and the composition of volatile by‐products (acetaldehyde, methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, methanol, propanol, isobutanol, amyl and isoamyl alcohols) after fermentation of wheat grains artificially contaminated with Fusarium sporotrichioides and pesticides (triasulfuron and sulfosulfuron) were analyzed. Wheat grains contamination with triasulfuron significantly reduced ethanol yield and increased isobutanol and ethyl acetate content. Moreover, wheat grains infection with F. sporotrichioides significantly increased methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, isobutanol, and amyl and isoamyl alcohols content. Significant differences between pesticides and wheat variety on volatile compounds formation in ethanol has been estimated.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that grains contaminated with F. sporotrichioides and pesticides significantly influenced the process of alcoholic fermentation that leads to variation of by‐products in ethanol, including higher alcohols, esters, and aldehydes. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Differential expression analysis of meat tenderness governing genes in different skeletal muscles of bovines
Authors: Temizkan Mehmet C , Bayraktaroglu Alev G , Kahraman Tolga
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare 12 different skeletal muscles of bovine (n = 15) with each other in terms of tenderness and meat‐quality‐related gene expressions. Tenderness values were evaluated by shear force, and ANK1, CAPN1, CAST, HSPB1, HSPA1A gene expressions were analyzed by using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

ANK1 gene showed significant differences between tender and tough muscles (P < 0.001) and was found to be more closely related to meat quality than CAPN1. No difference was found for CAST, HSPB1, and HSPA1A gene expressions between different parts of skeletal muscles (P > 0.05). The results also showed that the most convenient skeletal muscle for the meat quality studies is musculus psoas major. Furthermore, comparative use of musculus longissimus thoracis and musculus extensor digitorum muscles may give the most accurate results, rather than using other muscle groups in comparative studies between tender and tough muscles.

CONCLUSION

ANK1 gene is a preferable biomarker for the determination of meat quality, and CAPN1 needs further studies. However, CAST, HSPB1, and HSPA1A genes may not be suitable biomarkers for the determination of meat quality based on this study. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
An Examination of the Role of Difficulties Regulating Positive Emotions in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Weiss Nicole H. , Dixon‐Gordon Katherine L. , Peasant Courtney , Sullivan Tami P.
Published: October 2018

Emotion regulation difficulties have been theoretically and empirically linked to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Previous research, however, has focused almost exclusively on difficulties regulating negative emotions. In this study, we explored the nature of difficulties regulating positive emotions in PTSD. Participants were women who had experienced domestic violence (N = 210; 48.6% African American; Mage = 36.14 years). Higher levels of nonacceptance of positive emotions, difficulties engaging in goal‐directed behaviors when experiencing positive emotions, and difficulties controlling impulsive behaviors when experiencing positive emotions were related to a higher level of PTSD symptom severity overall and for the intrusion, avoidance/emotional numbing, and hyperarousal clusters, rs = .24–.37. The presence (vs. absence) of a probable PTSD diagnosis was related to greater difficulties engaging in goal‐directed behaviors, d = 0.54, and controlling impulsive behaviors, d = 0.34, when experiencing positive emotions. Results suggest the potential utility of assessing and treating difficulties regulating positive emotions among domestic violence–victimized women with PTSD.
Neurophysiological Correlates of Collective Trauma Recall in 2009 L'Aquila Earthquake Survivors
Authors: Massaro Giuseppe , Altavilla Daniela , Aceto Paola , Pellicano Gaia Romana , Lucarelli Giada , Luciani Massimiliano , Lai Carlo
Published: October 2018

In the present study, we aimed to explore neural correlates of survivors of the 2009 L'Aquila, Italy earthquake in response to being shown pictures featuring their own city before and after an earthquake as well as those of an unfamiliar city. Moreover, we explored the associations among psychological variables and brain responses to the pictures of L'Aquila after the earthquake. Our final sample (N = 30 adults) comprised 15 survivors (M age = 31.40 years, SD = 9.42) and 15 controls (M age = 30.53 years, SD = 10.01). Participants’ electroencephalographic (EEG) data were recorded during a visual task that included earthquake‐related stimuli. Participants were assessed for posttraumatic and dissociation symptoms and event‐related potential components, and low‐resolution electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA) were analyzed. Compared to the control group, source localization in survivors indicated a lower intensity of the amygdala, hippocampal, parahippocampal, and temporopolar areas in response to visual stimuli concerning the earthquake, p < .001 to p < .0001. Results indicated a reduced limbic activation in response to visual stimuli that evoked the recall of earthquake in survivors. This finding suggests that survivors likely adopted a distancing strategy toward stimuli that may have elicited an emotional activation related to collective trauma.