bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avidin and Glucose Oxidase‐non‐covalently Functionalized Multi‐walled Carbon Nanotubes: A New Analytical Tool for Building a Bienzymatic Glucose Biosensor
Authors: Gallay Pablo A. , Rubianes María D. , Gutierrez Fabiana A. , Rivas Gustavo A.
Published: May 2019

We report an innovative supramolecular architecture for bienzymatic glucose biosensing based on the non‐covalently functionalization of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with two proteins, glucose oxidase (GOx) (to recognize glucose) and avidin (to allow the specific anchoring of biotinylated horseradish peroxidase (b‐HRP)). The optimum functionalization was obtained by sonicating for 10 min 0.50 mg mL−1 MWCNTs in a solution of 2.00 mg mL−1 GOx+1.00 mg mL−1avidin prepared in 50 : 50 v/v ethanol/water. The sensitivity to glucose for glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) modified with MWCNTs‐GOx‐avidin dispersion and b‐HRP (GCE/MWCNTs‐GOx‐avidin/b‐HRP), obtained from amperometric experiments performed at −0.100 V in the presence of 5.0×10−4 M hydroquinone, was (4.8±0.3) μA mM−1 (r2=0.9986) and the detection limit was 1.2 μM. The reproducibility for 5 electrodes using the same MWCNTs/GOx‐avidin dispersion was 4.0 %, while the reproducibility for 3 different dispersions and 9 electrodes was 6.0 %. The GCE/MWCNT‐GOx‐avidin/b‐HRP was successfully used for the quantification of glucose in a pharmaceutical product and milk.
Direct and Fast Electrochemical Determination of Catechin in Tea Extracts using SWCNT‐Subphthalocyanine Hybrid Material
Authors: Şenocak Ahmet , Basova Tamara , Demirbas Erhan , Durmuş Mahmut
Published: May 2019

In this study, single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) were covalently functionalized by terminal ethynyl bearing subphthalocyanine (SubPc) to obtain a new hybrid material, viz. SWCNT‐SubPc (CS), via “click” reaction for the first time. The structural characterization and study of the electrochemical sensor properties of the CS hybrid material to catechin were carried out. A convenient and fast analytical method was offered for the determination of catechin. It was shown that the deposition of CS on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) led to a 2.2 and 8‐fold increase in the differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) responses to catechin in Britton‐Robinson (BR) buffer solution (a pH of 3) in comparison with SWCNT‐modified and bare GCE, respectively. The dynamic range, detection and quantification limits of catechin were determined to be 0.1–1.5 μM, 13 nM and 43 nM, respectively. Selectivity of the suggested CS/GCE sensor was investigated on addition of a number of interfering metal ions, antioxidants and biomolecules. The applicability of the modified electrode for the detection of catechin in real tea samples such as green, rosehip fruit, Turkish and Indian black tea was demonstrated with the standard addition method. Along with the ease in fabrication and low prices, the proposed CS/GCE sensor was reproducible, selective, stable and sensitive to catechin in major types of tea samples.
CE‐SDS method development, validation, and best practice—An overview
Authors: Sänger–van de Griend Cari E.
Published: May 2019

CE‐SDS has been implemented in the biopharmaceutical industry and is being used for the characterization of therapeutic proteins in most Biological License Applications currently submitted. An overview is presented on the separation mechanism, methodology, and good working practices/best practices. The CE‐SDS platform method development and validation are discussed and typical scientifically and regulatory issues and troubleshooting situations are highlighted.
A medical monitoring scheme and health‐medical service composition model in cloud‐based IoT platform
Authors: Asghari Parvaneh , Rahmani Amir Masoud , Haj Seyyed Javadi Hamid
Published: May 2019

Advanced technologies such as internet of things (IoT) and clouds have significantly influenced on modern medical monitoring systems. Analytical statistics derived from massive patients' medical data via different data analysis methods, contribute in remote medical monitoring, early diagnosis of diseases, predicting clinical events, and recommending vital health/medical instructions. According to existence of the same health/medical services in functional aspect, finding appropriate composite health/medical services by the patients has been remained as a major concern in modern medical systems. Regarding this challenge, in this paper, a medical monitoring scheme for cloud‐based IoT platform is proposed, in which the patients' medical conditions are derived through predicting diseases by mining her physiological data collected from IoT devices and other medical records. A disease diagnosis model is used to analyze the patients' medical data for the aim of offering a composite health/medical prescription. After confirming the outcomes by medical team, it is sent to the patient. Then, the patient indicates her nonfunctional requirements such as location, cost and time to find the most appropriate composite health/medical service based on her preferences. Experimental results reveal that the proposed scheme is successful in achieving effective diseases diagnosis for offering composite health/medical prescriptions.
Hexb enzyme deficiency leads to lysosomal abnormalities in radial glia and microglia in zebrafish brain development
Authors: Kuil Laura E. , López Martí Anna , Carreras Mascaro Ana , van den Bosch Jeroen C. , van den Berg Paul , van der Linde Herma C. , Schoonderwoerd Kees , Ruijter George J. G. , van Ham Tjakko J.
Published: May 2019

Sphingolipidoses are severe, mostly infantile lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) caused by defective glycosphingolipid degradation. Two of these sphingolipidoses, Tay Sachs and Sandhoff diseases, are caused by β‐Hexosaminidase (HEXB) enzyme deficiency, resulting in ganglioside (GM2) accumulation and neuronal loss. The precise sequence of cellular events preceding, and leading to, neuropathology remains unclear, but likely involves inflammation and lysosomal accumulation of GM2 in multiple cell types. We aimed to determine the consequences of Hexb activity loss for different brain cell types using zebrafish. Hexb deficient zebrafish (hexb−/−) showed lysosomal abnormalities already early in development both in radial glia, which are the neuronal and glial progenitors, and in microglia. Additionally, at 5 days postfertilization, hexb−/− zebrafish showed reduced locomotor activity. Although specific oligosaccharides accumulate in the adult brain, hexb−/−) zebrafish are viable and apparently resistant to Hexb deficiency. In all, we identified cellular consequences of loss of Hexb enzyme activity during embryonic brain development, showing early effects on glia, which possibly underlie the behavioral aberrations. Hereby, we identified clues into the contribution of non‐neuronal lysosomal abnormalities in LSDs affecting the brain and provide a tool to further study what underlies the relative resistance to Hexb deficiency in vivo.
A quality improvement and educational initiative to reduce morbidity associated with massive postpartum hemorrhage
Authors: Smith Catherine C. , Tessier Francine , Hutfield Anna , Hutcheon Jennifer A. , Mehra Neeraj
Published: May 2019

Objective

To determine the effect of a quality improvement and educational initiative on blood transfusion rates and patient morbidity from massive postpartum hemorrhage.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed of massive postpartum hemorrhage (mPPH) at an urban tertiary care center. Inclusion criteria are women with mPPH over 20 weeks gestational age. The primary outcome was the number of packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusions required. Two time periods were compared—the control period (January 2006–December 2011), and the educational period (January 2012–December 2015) by calculating an incidence rate ratio using Poisson regression.

Results

Among 189 women with mPPH, 107 cases occurred during the control period and 82 during the educational period. In the educational period, there were 13% (95% confidence interval [CI] 2%–23%) fewer pRBC and 16% (95% CI 1%–29%) fewer fresh frozen plasma (FFP) units transfused compared with the control period. There was a decrease of 58 minutes (95% CI −106 to −9.52) of the median time from diagnosis of mPPH to transfusion of FFP.

Conclusion

The quality improvement educational initiative decreased the number of pRBC and FFP transfusions required, and shortened the latency interval to transfusion of FFP.
Laser‐enhanced drug delivery of antiretroviral drugs into human immunodeficiency virus‐1 infected TZMbl cells
Authors: Malabi Rudzani , Lebohang Manoto Sello , Ombinda‐Lemboumba Saturnin , Maaza Malik , Mthunzi‐Kufa Patience
Published: May 2019

The introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has significantly increased life expectancy and improved management of the human immunodeficiency virus‐1 (HIV‐1) disease globally. This well‐established treatment regime has shown to reduce viral capacity to undetectable limits when using traditional clinical assays. The establishment of viral reservoirs during the early stages of infection are the major contributors to failure of the current regimens to eradicate HIV‐1 infection since the reservoirs are not affected by antiretroviral drugs (ARVs). Therefore, advanced modification of the present treatment and investigation of novel antiretroviral drug delivery system are needed. The aim of this study was to use femtosecond (fs) laser pulses to deliver ARVs into HIV‐1 infected TZMbl cells. Different ARVs were translocated into TZMbl cells using fs pulsed laser (800 nm) with optimum power of 4 μW and 10 ms laser to cell exposure time. Changes in cellular processes were evaluated using cellular morphology, viability, cytotoxicity and luciferase activity assays. Cells treated with the laser in the presence of ARVs showed a significant reduction in viral infectivity, cell viability and an increase in cytotoxicity. This study demonstrated that fs laser pulses were highly effective in delivering ARVs into HIV‐1 infected TZMbl cells, causing a significant reduction in HIV‐1 infection.
Oxygen‐dependent delayed fluorescence of protoporphyrin IX measured in the stomach and duodenum during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
Authors: van Dijk Louisa J. D. , Ubbink Rinse , Terlouw Luke G. , van Noord Desirée , Mik Egbert G. , Bruno Marco J.
Published: May 2019

Protoporphyrin IX‐triplet state lifetime technique (PpIX‐TSLT) is a method used to measure oxygen (PO2) in human cells. The aim of this study was to assess the technical feasibility and safety of measuring oxygen‐dependent delayed fluorescence of 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA)‐induced PpIX during upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy. Endoscopic delayed fluorescence measurements were performed 4 hours after oral administration of ALA in healthy volunteers. The ALA dose administered was 0, 1, 5 or 20 mg/kg. Measurements were performed at three mucosal spots in the gastric antrum, duodenal bulb and descending duodenum with the catheter above the mucosa and while applying pressure to induce local ischemia and monitor mitochondrial respiration. During two endoscopies, measurements were performed both before and after intravenous administration of butylscopolamine. Delayed fluorescence measurements were successfully performed during all 10 upper GI endoscopies. ALA dose of 5 mg/kg showed adequate signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) values >20 without side effects. All pressure measurements showed significant prolongation of delayed fluorescence lifetime compared to measurements performed without pressure (P < .001). Measurements before and after administration of butylscopolamine did not differ significantly in the duodenal bulb and descending duodenum. Measurements of oxygen‐dependent delayed fluorescence of ALA‐induced PpIX in the GI tract during upper GI endoscopy are technically feasible and safe.
A sensitive electrochemical sensor for detection of rutin based on a gold nanocage‐modified electrode
Authors: Liu Juan , Weng Wenju , Yin Chunxiao , Li Xiaobao , Niu Yanyan , Li Guangjiu , Sun Wei
Published: May 2019

In this article, an electrochemical sensor based on a gold nanocage (AuNC)‐modified carbon ionic liquid electrode (CILE) was fabricated and applied to the sensitive rutin determination. The presence of AuNCs on the electrode surface greatly improved the electrochemical performance of the working electrode due to its specific microstructure and high metal conductivity. Electrochemical behavior of rutin on AuNCs/CILE was studied using cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry with the related electrochemical parameters calculated. Under the optimal experimental conditions, the oxidation peak current of rutin and its concentration had good linear relationship in the range from 4.0 × 10−9 to 7.0 × 10−4 mol/L with a low detection limit of 1.33 × 10−9 mol/L (3σ). This fabricated AuNCs/CILE was applied to direct detection of the rutin concentration in drug samples with satisfactory results, showing the real application of AuNCs in the field of chemically modified electrodes.
A surfactant‐free synthesis of the silica nanosphere‐supported ultrafine silver nanoparticles and their antibacterial effects
Authors: Shen Qihui , Shan Yixuan , Lü Yang , Xue Peng , Shu Xian , Li Dongmei , Liu Yan , Liu Xiaoyang
Published: May 2019

In this study, a facile, efficient, and surfactant‐free method to synthesize silica nanosphere‐supported ultrafine silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) (~2.5 nm) was developed, and their antibacterial effects were investigated. In the synthesis process, the hydrolysis of 3‐mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane was adopted to provide thiol groups and in situ reduce Ag+ to Ag0 for ultrafine AgNPs formation on the surface of the silica nanosphere. Electron microscopy characterization of the complex formed revealed that the ultrafine AgNPs were not agglomerated and grow without any surfactants because there were no excess electrons transported from the shell to reduce the silver ions to silver atoms. The antibacterial effects of the supported ultrafine AgNPs with the surfactant‐free surface were evaluated against the Escherichia coli even at very low dosage. After incubation with 20 μg/mL silica‐supported AgNPs up to 120 min, 99.7% of the E. coli were inactivated, according to the bacterial viability measured by flow cytometry.
Interpersonal needs and suicide risk: The moderating roles of sex and brooding
Authors: Lear Mary K. , Kozina Ryan M. , Stacy Stephanie E. , Clapp Joshua D. , Pepper Carolyn M.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

This paper tested two moderators, brooding and participant sex, on the respective relations between thwarted belongingness (TB), perceived burdensomeness (PB), and suicide risk.

Method

Using a cross‐sectional design in a sample of undergraduates (N = 278), two hierarchical regression models examining the three‐way interaction between brooding, sex, and either TB or PB on suicide risk were conducted.

Results

A significant two‐way interaction of brooding and TB was detected, but no moderating effect of sex was observed. There was a significant three‐way interaction of brooding, sex, and PB on suicide risk.

Conclusions

High levels of TB and brooding produce increased suicide risk across sexes. The relation between PB and suicide risk is dependent on brooding for females but not males.
Retracted: Upregulated microRNA‐15b alleviates ovarian cancer through inhitbition of the PI3K/Akt pathway by targeting LPAR3
Authors: Li Guang‐Cai , Qin Xu‐Ling , Song Huai‐Hua , Li Ying‐Ni , Qiu Yu‐Yan , Cui Shi‐Chang , Wang Yong‐Sheng , Wang Hui , Gong Jun‐Ling
Published: May 2019

Ovarian cancer characterizes as the fourth leading consequence of death associated with cancer for women. Accumulating evidence underscores the vital roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) in preventing ovarian cancer development. Besides, induction of the phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase/serine/threonine kinase (PI3K/Akt) pathway associated with the ovarian cancer cell migration and invasion. The study aims to examine the effects of miR‐15b on the proliferation, apoptosis, and senescence of human ovarian cancer cells by binding to lysophosphatidic acid receptor 3 (LPAR3) with the involvement of the PI3K/Akt pathway. The positive expression of LPAR3 protein was detected by immunohistochemistry. Then the interaction between miR‐15b and LPAR3 was examined. The possible role of miR‐15b in ovarian cancer was explored using gain‐ and loss‐of‐function experiments. Subsequently, the functions of miR‐15b on PI3K/Akt pathway, proliferation, migration, invasion, senescence and apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells were assessed. Furthermore, in vivo tumorigenicity assay in nude mice was performed. LPAR3 was overexpressed, whereas miR‐15b was poorly expressed in ovarian cancer tissues. LPAR3 is a direct target of miR‐15b. Restored miR‐15b promoted Bax expression, apoptosis, and senescence, inhibited expression of LPAR3 and Bcl‐2, the extent of PI3K and Akt phosphorylation, as well as ovarian cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Further, tumor growth was observed to be prevented by miR‐15b overexpression. Collectively, our study demonstrates that miR‐15b represses the proliferation and drives the senescence and apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells through the suppression of LPAR3 and the PI3K/Akt pathway, highlighting an antitumorigenic role of miR‐15b.
Systematic analysis of alternative splicing signature unveils prognostic predictor for kidney renal clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Song Jukun , Liu Yong Da , Su Jiaming , Yuan Dongbo , Sun Fa , Zhu Jianguo
Published: May 2019

There is growing evidence that alternative splicing (AS) plays an important role in cancer development. However, a comprehensive analysis of AS signatures in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is lacking and urgently needed. It remains unclear whether AS acts as diagnostic biomarkers in predicting the prognosis of KIRC patients. In the work, gene expression and clinical data of KIRC were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and profiles of AS events were downloaded from the SpliceSeq database. The RNA sequence/AS data and clinical information were integrated, and we conducted the Cox regression analysis to screen survival‐related AS events and messenger RNAs (mRNAs). Correlation between prognostic AS events and gene expression were analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient. Protein‐protein interaction analysis was conducted for the prognostic AS‐related genes, and a potential regulatory network was built using Cytoscape (version 3.6.1). Meanwhile, functional enrichment analysis was conducted. A prognostic risk score model is then established based on seven hub genes (KRT222, LENG8, APOB, SLC3A1, SCD5, AQP1, and ADRA1A) that have high performance in the risk classification of KIRC patients. A total 46,415 AS events including 10,601 genes in 537 patients with KIRC were identified. In univariate Cox regression analysis, 13,362 survival associated AS events and 8,694 survival‐specific mRNAs were detected. Common 3,105 genes were screen by overlapping 13,362 survival associated AS events and 8,694 survival‐specific mRNAs. The Pearson correlation analysis suggested that 13 genes were significantly correlated with AS events (Pearson correlation coefficient >0.8 or <−0.8). Then, We conducted multivariate Cox regression analyses to select the potential prognostic AS genes. Seven genes were identified to be significantly related to OS. A prognostic model based on seven genes was constructed. The area under the ROC curve was 0.767. In the current study, a robust prognostic prediction model was constructed for KIRC patients, and the findings revealed that the AS events could act as potential prognostic biomarkers for KIRC.
Transcriptome analysis reveals lncRNA‐mediated complex regulatory network response to DNA damage in the liver tissue of Rattus norvegicus
Authors: Huang Chen , Leng Dongliang , Lei Kuan Cheok , Sun Shixue , Zhang Xiaohua Douglas
Published: May 2019

DNA is prone to damages, which would result in genetic disorders and enhance risk of tumorigenesis. Hence, understanding the molecular mechanisms of DNA damage and repair will provide deep insights into tumorigenesis, carcinogenesis as well as the corresponding treatments. Aiming at investigating potential long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) response against DNA damage, we performed a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis based on RNA sequencing data of the liver tissue from Rattus norvegicus, in which DNA damage was induced using aflatoxin B1, ifosfamide and N‐nitrosodimethylamine. Through our analyses, numerous novel lncRNAs are identified for the first time, and differential network analysis discloses lncRNA‐mediated regulatory networks related to DNA‐damage response. The result shows that these DNA‐damage‐inducing chemicals might disrupt many lncRNA‐mediated interactions involved in diverse biological processes and pathways, for example, immune function and cell adhesion. In contrast, the host might also activate a few RNA interactions in response to DNA damage, involving response to drug and regulation of cell cycle.
Cardioprotective role of extracellular vesicles: A highlight on exosome beneficial effects in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Rezaie Jafar , Rahbarghazi Reza , Pezeshki Milad , Mazhar Mahdi , Yekani Farshid , Khaksar Majid , Shokrollahi Elhameh , Amini Hassan , Hashemzadeh Shahriar , Sokullu Sadiye Emel , Tokac Mehmet
Published: May 2019

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano‐sized vesicles, released from many cell types including cardiac cells, have recently emerged as intercellular communication tools in cell dynamics. EVs are an important mediator of signaling within cells that inﬂuencing the functional behavior of the target cells. In heart complex, cardiac cells can easily use EVs to transport bioactive molecules such as proteins, lipids, and RNAs to the regulation of neighboring cell function. Cross‐talk between intracardiac cells plays pivotal roles in the heart homeostasis and in adaptive responses of the heart to stress. EVs were released by cardiomyocytes under baseline conditions, but stress condition such as hypoxia intensifies secretome capacity. EVs secreted by cardiac progenitor cells and cardiosphere‐derived cells could be pinpointed as important mediators of cardioprotection and cardiogenesis. Furthermore, EVs from many different types of stem cells could potentially exert a therapeutic effect on the damaged heart. Recent evidence shows that cardiac‐derived EVs are rich in microRNAs, suggesting a key role in the controlling of cellular processes. EVs harboring exosomes may be clinically useful in cell‐free therapy approaches and potentially act as prognosis and diagnosis biomarkers of cardiovascular diseases.
Histology and ultrastructure of the testis and vas deferens in Pseudochorthippus parallelus parallelus (Orthoptera, Acrididae)
Authors: Polat Irmak , Amutkan Mutlu Damla , Ünal Mustafa , Suludere Zekiye
Published: May 2019

Pseudochorthippus parallelus parallelus (Zetterstedt, 1821) (Orthoptera, Acrididae) is a widespread species in Europe, and also it is localized in some regions in Turkey such as Bursa, Eskişehir, Ankara, Bolu, Düzce, and Çankırı. The features of the reproductive organs such as the numbers and shapes of testes and follicles can be used as taxonomical characters. For this purpose, the ultrastructural and histological features of testis and vas deferens in P. parallelus parallelus were examined with using light microscope, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscope. The mature P. parallelus parallelus has two conjugated testes produce spermatozoa. Each testis is composed of numerous testis follicles in which different stages of spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis develop. First, spermatocytes are formed by the mitosis division of the germ cells at the distal end of the follicles. Then, spermatocytes form spermatids by meiosis division in the middle region of the follicles. Finally, spermatids are differentiated to spermatozoa at the proximal region of the follicles. After maturation of the spermatozoa, sperm tails come together as the sperm bundles called as spermatodesm. Each follicle is connected to vas deferens via vas efferens to discharging spermatozoa. In spite of some differences, the testes and the vas deferens in P. parallelus parallelus are highly similar to the those of other species, especially Orthopteran species.
Analytical modeling of 2DEG with 2DHG polarization charge density drain current and small‐signal model of quaternary AlInGaN HEMTs for microwave frequency applications
Authors: N. Anbuselvan , N. Mohankumar , A. Mohanbabu
Published: May 2019

A physics‐based analytical model for quaternary AlInGaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) is developed including two‐dimensional electron gas (2DEG) and two‐dimensional hole gas (2DHG) for microwave applications. The DC and RF performance characteristics are explored by considering the quasi‐triangular quantum well (QW). The derived charge carrier densities nsand psare considered for energy subbands Eo and E1 inside QW. The 2DEG sheet carrier concentration density remains constant as long as 2DHG exists. From the derived model, the drain current (Id), transconductance current gain (gm), and cutoff frequency (ft) for different gate length and width are verified with experimental data for upcoming nano‐scale devices.
Development and evaluation of gastroretentive ciprofloxacin floating tablets using Chrysophyllum albidum gum
Authors: Bakre Lateef G. , Ladele Boluwatife A.
Published: May 2019

Background

The floating drug delivery system offers immense advantages for the controlled delivery of drugs because it increases gastric residence time and thereby improves drug bioavailability.

Aim

The aim of this study was to design a gastroretentive drug delivery system for controlled delivery of ciprofloxacin using Chrysophyllum albidum gum (CAG) in combination with hydrophilic polymers such as xanthan gum (XG) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC).

Methods

Floating tablets prepared by the effervescence method and direct compression were evaluated for hardness, friability, swelling index, floating lag time and total floating time. In vitro drug release data were fitted into different drug release kinetic models, and the mechanism of drug release was determined.

Results

The tablets exhibited satisfactory physicochemical characteristics, showed good in vitro buoyancy and swelled considerably. Tablets with a higher amount of CAG floated for a longer duration and had more matrix integrity than formulations containing lower amounts of CAG. The optimised formulation exhibited 50% and 90% drug release in 6.5 and 11.5 h, respectively, which suggests a sustained release effect, whereas the buoyancy lag time was 18 s. Analysis of the in vitro release kinetics suggests that the drug was released from the optimised formulation by diffusion, and the drug release mechanism was observed to be Fickian diffusion.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential of a ciprofloxacin floating system prepared from xanthan gum, HPMC and CAG as a suitable alternative to the conventional dosage and other sustained‐release formulations.
Raman study of amorphization in nanocrystalline 3C–SiC irradiated with C+ and He+ ions
Authors: Zhang Limin , Jiang Weilin , Pan Chenglong , Fadanelli Raul C. , Ai Wensi , Chen Liang , Wang Tieshan
Published: May 2019

This study examines C+ and He+ ion irradiation‐induced amorphization processes in 3C–SiC nanograins embedded in an amorphous SiC matrix. Raman spectroscopy and Rutherford backscattering spectrometry are used for damage characterization. SiC grains with an average size of either ~6 or ~20 nm were observed to be fully amorphized to a lower dose at room temperature compared with their monocrystalline counterpart under the identical irradiation condition. In addition to damage accumulation‐induced amorphization in the grains, preferential amorphization at the crystalline/amorphous interfaces could play a significant role. This interface‐driven amorphization proceeds at comparable rates for C+ and He+ ion irradiations. The results may have an important implication for nanocrystalline SiC to be applied in advanced nuclear reactors.
In vivo contrast‐enhanced microCT for the monitoring of mouse thoracic, lumbar, and coccygeal intervertebral discs
Authors: Walk Remy E. , Tang Simon Y.
Published: May 2019

Mouse models are often used for studies of intervertebral disc (IVD) homeostasis and degeneration, yet the relatively small size of the IVD poses challenges for noninvasive, longitudinal imaging modalities. The recently developed contrast‐enhanced microCT (CEμCT) using Ioversol has been successful in detecting degenerative changes in the murine IVD ex vivo at the micrometer scale. Further leveraging the superior biocompatibility of Ioversol as a contrast agent, we demonstrate the in vivo use of this CEμCT technique to examine IVDs at multiple spinal sites. Ioversol was administered via tail vein injection (TVI) in growing and adult male FVB/NJ mice (n = 5 /group). The animals were anesthetized and underwent in vivo micro‐computed tomographic (microCT) at the coccygeal (CC5/CC6), lumbar (L5/6), and thoracic (T12/T13) IVDs. TVI of Ioversol was well‐tolerated by all animals. As Ioversol filtered through the kidneys and accumulated in the bladder, the attenuations of the mouse bladder and kidneys increased due to the high molecular weight of Ioversol, confirming that the Ioversol is biological available. Average IVD attenuations increased 3%‐15% following TVI (ANOVA; P < .01). The presence of Ioversol in the IVD combined with high‐resolution microCT allow for nondestructive visualization of structural features of the IVD. These results demonstrate CEμCT with Ioversol as a viable strategy for the in vivo monitoring of multiple mouse IVDs during degeneration, disease, and injury.
Network Analysis of Posttraumatic Stress Experiences of Adults Seeking Psychological Treatment for Childhood Sexual Abuse
Authors: McBride Orla , Hyland Philip , Murphy Jamie , Elklit Ask
Published: May 2019

Network analysis proposes that mental disorders may best be construed as causal systems embodied in networks of functionally interconnected symptoms. We employed network analysis to test how adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) experienced symptoms of posttraumatic stress, using alternative conceptualizations of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Given the characteristics of the sample (i.e., the nature of and time since trauma), we hypothesized that (a) symptoms related to arousal would not be prominent in the networks and (b) symptoms related to negative alternations in cognition and mood (NACM) would be core components in the network. Danish adults seeking psychological treatment for CSA (n= 473) completed the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire and Trauma Symptom Checklist. Three alternative models (DSM‐5,DSM‐5with dissociation, andICD‐11complex PTSD [CPTSD]) were estimated using regularized partial correlation models. In theDSM‐5network, strong associations emerged for experiences of NACM (blame and guilt) and intrusions (thoughts and flashbacks). The addition of “depersonalization” and “derealization” to theDSM‐5model produced a strong association, but these experiences were largely unrelated to other PTSD clusters. In the CPTSD network, interpersonal problems and negative self‐concept were central to the survivors’ experiences. For this highly‐specific survivor group who experienced traumatic CSA many years ago, experiences related to NACM appeared to be more central to the posttrauma experience than those of arousal. If replicated, these findings could help inform treatment plans for specific groups of survivors. Methodological implications as to the usefulness of network models in the psychopathological research literature are discussed.
Mannose‐Modified Serum Exosomes for the Elevated Uptake to Murine Dendritic Cells and Lymphatic Accumulation
Authors: Choi Eun Seo , Song Jihyeon , Kang Yoon Young , Mok Hyejung
Published: May 2019

The surface of bovine serum‐derived exosomes (EXOs) are modified with α‐d‐mannose for facile interaction with mannose receptors on dendritic cells (DCs) and for efficient delivery of immune stimulators to the DCs. The surface of the EXOs is modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) without particle aggregation (≈50 nm) via the incorporation of 1,2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoethanolamine (DSPE) into the lipid layer of the EXO, compared to chemical conjugation by N‐hydroxysuccinimide activated PEG (NHS‐PEG). PEG modification onto the exosomal surface significantly decreases the non‐specific cellular uptake of the EXOs into the DCs. However, the EXOs with mannose‐conjugated PEG‐DSPE (EXO‐PEG‐man) exhibit excellent intracellular uptake into the DCs and boost the immune response by the incorporation of adjuvant, monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) within the EXO. After an intradermal injection, a higher retention of EXO‐PEG‐man is observed in the lymph nodes, which could be used for the efficient delivery of immune stimulators and antigens to the lymph nodes in vivo.
Assessment of the association between ACYP2 and laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma risk in Chinese males
Authors: Zhao Wenhui , Niu Fanglin , Xie Zhilan , Yan Mengdan , Li Jingjie , Zhang Yuan , Chen Jun , Liu Qiufang , Jin Tianbo
Published: May 2019

Background

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is one of the most prevalent malignant neoplasms of the upper respiratory tract. Studies have confirmed that an unstable chromosome constitution promotes the progress of laryngeal tumorigenesis, and ACYP2 has been confirmed as a telomere length‐related gene. However, to date, the association between ACYP2 polymorphisms and LSCC susceptibility has not been investigated.

Methods

We performed this study to explore the effect of 11 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ACYP2 on LSCC susceptibility in Chinese Han males. Unconditional logistic regression analysis adjusted for age was used to calculate the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Based on allele and genotype models, our results showed that rs1682111 variant was significantly associated with a decreased LSCC susceptibility (p < 0.05). On the contrary, polymorphisms of rs10439478, rs11125529, rs12615793, rs843711, rs11896604, and rs17045754 were significantly associated with an increased LSCC risk (p < 0.05). The results of haplotype analysis indicated that haplotypes “TTCTCG” and “TTCTAA” in block 1 and “TG” in block 2 showed a risk factor for the development of LCSS (p = 0.009, p < 0.001, and p = 0.001, respectively). The results of Genotype‐Tissue Expression analysis indicate that these significant SNPs were known to be associated with ACYP2 expression.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrated that ACYP2 polymorphisms may exert effects on LSCC susceptibility in Chinese Han males.
Oral Immunotherapy with Egg Peptides Induces Innate and Adaptive Tolerogenic Responses
Authors: Lozano‐Ojalvo Daniel , Martínez‐Blanco Mónica , Pérez‐Rodríguez Leticia , Molina Elena , López‐Fandiño Rosina
Published: May 2019

Scope

The mechanism through which peptide‐based immunotherapy provides effective desensitization toward food allergy is investigated.

Methods and results

Ex vivo experiments are conducted with intestinal epithelial cells (IECs), dendritic cells (DCs), and T cells from mice sensitized to egg white (EW) and either left untreated or tolerized by the oral administration of a hydrolysate of ovalbumin with pepsin (OP). IECs from EW‐sensitized mice upregulate Il33 and Tslp to a higher extent than those from tolerized mice and induce bone marrow (BM)‐DCs to express Tnfsf4 and produce pro‐inflammatory cytokines. On the other hand, incubation with OP upregulates Aldh1a1 in IEC cultures and BM‐DCs conditioned with supernatants of OP‐pulsed IECs also overexpress Aldh1a2 and Tgfb1. DCs from tolerized mice, in co‐culture with CD4+ T cells from sensitized mice, reduce the secretion of IL‐5, IFN‐γ, and IL‐17, following stimulation with EW, to a level similar than DCs from sham‐sensitized mice. Furthermore, incubation with OP of DCs and CD4+ T cells, regardless of the mouse sentitization status, promotes the secretion of TGF‐β and the generation of Foxp3+ RORγt+ cells.

Conclusion

OP induces the expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase enzymes in cells of the innate immune system and the development of Foxp3+ RORγt+ T cells.
Current tobacco use, nicotine dependence, and transitions across stages of alcohol involvement: A latent transition analysis approach
Authors: Pacek Lauren R. , Reboussin Beth A. , Green Kerry M. , LaFlair Lareina N. , Storr Carla L. , Alvanzo Anika A.H. , Mojtabai Ramin , Cullen Bernadette , Young Andrea S. , Tormohen Kayla , Riehm Kira , Crum Rosa M.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

This study aims to examine the (a) probability of transition between stages of alcohol involvement and (b) influence of tobacco use and nicotine dependence on transitions.

Methods

Data came from Waves 1 and 2 of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions. Latent transition analysis estimated the probability of transitioning between stages of alcohol involvement across waves and the impact of tobacco use and nicotine dependence at Wave 1 on transitions.

Results

Males reporting current tobacco use but no dependence at Wave 1 were more likely to progress from No Problems to Moderate Problems (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.79; 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.44, 2.22]) and from No Problems to Severe Problems (aOR = 2.44; 95% CI [1.25, 4.77]) than nontobacco users. Females reporting current tobacco use but no dependence were more likely to progress from No Problems to Moderate Problems (aOR = 2.00; 95% CI [1.37, 2.94]) and from No Problems to Severe Problems (aOR = 2.87; 95% CI [1.34, 6.13]). Females reporting current tobacco use and dependence were more likely than females not using tobacco to transition from Moderate to No Problems (aOR = 2.10; 95% CI [1.04, 4.22]).

Conclusions

Results suggest that tobacco use is a preceding correlate of progression in alcohol involvement among males and females. Among females, tobacco use and nicotine dependence are also related to alcohol involvement recovery.
Escalating utilization of inpatient surgery for pelvic floor dysfunction in the elderly in Taiwan
Authors: Ng Soo‐Cheen , Chen Chi‐Chen , Cheng Shou‐Hsia , Chen Gin‐Den
Published: May 2019

Aims

The direct cost of operations and health care expenditure for treating pelvic floor dysfunction are substantial. In this study, we evaluate the number of inpatient surgical procedures and direct expenditures for treating pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence under the coverage of National Health Insurance (NHI) in Taiwan.

Methods

Thirteen years of population‐based NHI inpatient claims were used in this study. The number of surgical procedures and the average direct cost of inpatient fees for treating pelvic floor dysfunction for each patient from 1999 to 2011 were calculated. The patients were stratified based on age into a younger than 65 years group and 65 years or older group for comparisons.

Results

The number of patients per year increased by 27%, increasing from 5278 patients in 1999 to 6706 patients in 2011. The total direct cost of inpatient (surgical and admission) fees for pelvic floor dysfunction increased by 57.2%, increasing from $6 674 968 USD in 1999 to $10 494 894 USD in 2011. However, while the expenditures for women 65 years or older increased by 102.2% from 1999 to 2011, there was only a 38.3% increase for those younger than 65 years when we stratified the patients by age.

Conclusion

The increasing expenditures for inpatient surgery for pelvic floor dysfunction are mainly due to the escalating utilization of inpatient surgical procedures, especially those for pelvic organ prolapse in women aged 65 or older.
The role of technology in reconfiguring volunteer management in nonprofits in Hong Kong: Benefits and discontents
Authors: Chui Cheryl Hiu‐Kwan , Chan Chee Hon
Published: May 2019

There is plenty of evidence demonstrating that volunteering generates benefits for individuals and society at large. However, the role of technology used in recruiting, managing, and retaining volunteers in nonprofits is underexplored in East Asia. Drawing from in‐depth interviews with representatives of eight nonprofits, we examine how technology reconfigured volunteer management in nonprofits, identify its limitations and shortcomings, and discuss strategies in which technology can be utilized to enhance the effectiveness of volunteer management. We found, through this study, that the use of technology reconfigured key aspects of volunteer management: improving recruitment by enlarging and diversifying the volunteer pool; enhancing precision and speed of volunteer matching; improving nonprofits’ ability to recruit professionals; and reducing overall administrative burden of volunteer management within these nonprofits. However, challenges in volunteer management resulting from technology uptake were also observed, including resistance among frontline staff to adopt technology, and volunteer accountability and quality assurance. Specifically, it was found through this study that the extent to which nonprofits are able to effectively utilize technology in volunteer management is contingent on how well volunteer managers are able to actualize the notion of capacity optimization, create a friendly volunteer environment, and build rapport with volunteers. Implications for enhancing organizational capacity in volunteer management vis‐à‐vis the role of technology in the third sector are further discussed.
Heat‐shock‐inducible CRISPR/Cas9 system generates heritable mutations in rice
Authors: Nandy Soumen , Pathak Bhuvan , Zhao Shan , Srivastava Vibha
Published: May 2019

Transient expression of CRISPR/Cas9 is an effective approach for limiting its activities and improving its precision in genome editing. Here, we describe the heat‐shock‐inducible CRISPR/Cas9 for controlled genome editing, and demonstrate its efficiency in the model crop, rice. Using the soybean heat‐shock protein gene promoter and the rice U3 promoter to express Cas9 and sgRNA, respectively, we developed the heat‐shock (HS)‐inducible CRISPR/Cas9 system, and tested its efficacy in targeted mutagenesis. Two loci were targeted in rice, and the presence of targeted mutations was determined before and after the HS treatment. Only a low rate of targeted mutagenesis was detected before HS (~16%), but an increased rate of mutagenesis was observed after the HS treatment among the transgenic lines (50–63%). Analysis of regenerated plants harboring HS‐CRISPR/Cas9 revealed that targeted mutagenesis was suppressed in the plants but induced by HS, which was detectable by Sanger sequencing after a few weeks of HS treatments. Most importantly, the HS‐induced mutations were transmitted to the progeny at a high rate, generating monoallelic and biallelic mutations that independently segregated from the Cas9 gene. Additionally, off‐target mutations were either undetectable or found at a lower rate in HS‐CRISPR/Cas9 lines as compared to the constitutive‐overexpression CRISPR/Cas9 lines. Taken together, this work shows that HS‐CRISPR/Cas9 is a controlled and reasonably efficient platform for genome editing, and therefore, a promising tool for limiting genome‐wide off‐target effects and improving the precision of genome editing.
Subjective cognitive functioning in patients with a meningioma: Its course and association with objective cognitive functioning and psychological symptoms
Authors: van Lonkhuizen Pearl J.C. , Rijnen Sophie J.M. , van der Linden Sophie D. , Rutten Geert‐Jan M. , Gehring Karin , Sitskoorn Margriet M.
Published: May 2019

Objective

Although meningioma patients show deficits in objective cognitive functioning (OCF) measured with neuropsychological tests, subjective cognitive functioning (SCF) has received little attention. We investigate SCF from pre‐ to postsurgery and its associations with OCF, psychological, sociodemographic, and clinical characteristics.

Methods

SCF was measured using the Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (CFQ) 1 day before (T0) and 3 (T3) and 12 months (T12) after surgery. Patients' scores were compared with normative data and changes over time were assessed. The neuropsychological battery CNS Vital Signs and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were administered. Correlations of SCF with OCF, psychological, sociodemographic, and clinical characteristics were explored.

Results

Patients reported significantly better SCF as compared with controls at T0 (N = 54) and T3 (N = 242), but not at T12 (N = 50). A significant decrease in group level SCF was observed from T0 to T12 (n = 24,P< .001). SCF was associated with anxiety at all time points (rs = −0.543 to −0.352) and with depression at T3 and T12 (r =−0.338 and −0.574), but not with OCF, sociodemographic, or clinical characteristics (rs = −0.202 to 0.288).

Conclusions

Meningioma patients experienced better SCF as compared with controls before and 3 months after surgery, which might be the result of phenomena related to disease and recovery. As the findings suggest that cognitive symptoms might increase later on, future studies should further investigate the course of SCF in meningioma patients. In clinical practice, measurements of SCF should be combined with those of OCF and psychological distress in order to determine whether and which interventions are needed.
Boosting Postsurgical Outcomes of Orthotopic Hepatocellular Carcinoma via an EpCAM‐Targeting Theranostic Nanoparticle
Authors: Hu Min , Wang Kun , Shang Wenting , Han Ziyu , Jiang Hongmei , Fang Chihua , Tian Jie
Published: May 2019

Hepatectomy is one of the main treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, because microscopic tumor residues are often present after surgery, the recurrence rate of HCC remains extremely high. A multimodality imaging‐guided multifunctional nanoparticle, indocyanine‐green–gadolinium–copper sulfide@bovine‐serum‐albumin–epithelial‐cell‐adhesion molecule (EpCAM), is developed for HCC treatment based on a novel theranostic strategy. After intravenous injection of these nanoparticles into HCC‐bearing mice, remarkably selective accumulation and highly efficient retention of the nanoparticles in tumor sites are observed. This is due to the EpCAM's specific targeting ability, which also results in enhanced HCC contrast in a tri‐modal visualization, which unites magnetic resonance, photoacoustic, and fluorescence imaging. Moreover, nanoparticle uptake into the HCC allows photothermal therapy (PTT) as an interoperative adjuvant strategy for further eliminating possible microscopic residues and boosting HCC surgery outcomes. This theranostic strategy not only helps with precise diagnosis of HCC but enables intraoperatively imaging guidance for accurate tumor resection. Moreover, postoperation longitudinal observation demonstrates that intraoperative imaging‐guided resection alongside a PTT‐integrated treatment strategy can result in a significant improvement of overall survival rate. These multifunctional EpCAM‐targeting nanoparticles may respresent a novel theranostic strategy to improve postsurgical HCC treatment.