bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adams Method Prepared Metal Oxide Catalysts for Solar‐Driven Water Splitting
Authors: Browne Michelle P. , O'Rourke Christopher , Wells Nathan , Mills Andrew
Published: January 2018

The widespread utilisation of solar‐driven water‐splitting devices is hindered by the use of expensive and unstable materials. Herein, we show that highly active earth‐abundant metal oxide oxygen and hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts can be synthesised using the Adams method, in which the metal salts are oxidised in a melt of sodium nitrate. We also demonstrate that such oxides are usually highly crystalline powders with high specific surface areas. Disc electrodes of the Adams method metal oxides, specifically RuO2, Mn2O3, Co3O4 and NiO, are prepared using a recently reported mechanical, solvent‐free method, involving pressing a mixture of the metal oxide and a small amount (5 wt %) of PTFE powder. Each electrode is tested as an electrode for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in 1 m NaOH. In the former role, Mn2O3 appears better than a platinum wire electrode (overpotential at 10 mA cm−2, η10=61 mV compared to 70 mV for Pt). In the OER study, although RuO2 is the best electrocatalyst (with η10=267 mV), Co3O4 is also very effective (with η10=330 mV). Using Mn2O3 as the cathode and Co3O4 as the anode, a silicon solar cell is used to photocleave water into H2 and O2.
Phase I metabolism of the recently emerged synthetic cannabinoid CUMYL‐PEGACLONE and detection in human urine samples
Authors: Mogler Lukas , Wilde Maurice , Huppertz Laura M. , Weinfurtner Georg , Franz Florian , Auwärter Volker
Published: January 2018

Indole‐, indazole‐, or azaindole‐based synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), bearing a cumyl substituent are a widespread, recreationally used subgroup of new psychoactive substances (NPS). The latest cumyl‐derivative, CUMYL‐PEGACLONE, emerged in December 2016 on the German drug market. The substance features a novel γ‐carboline core structure, which is most likely synthesized to bypass generic legislative approaches to control SCs by prohibiting distinct core structures. Using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography–high resolution mass spectrometry techniques, the main in vivo phase I metabolites of this new substance were detected. A pooled human liver microsome assay was applied to generate in vitro reference spectra of CUMYL‐PEGACLONE phase I metabolites. Additionally, 30 urine samples were investigated leading to 22 in vivo metabolites. A metabolite mono‐hydroxylated at the γ‐carbolinone core system and a metabolite with an additional carbonyl group at the pentyl side chain were evaluated as highly specific and sensitive markers to proof CUMYL‐PEGACLONE uptake. Moreover, 3 immunochemical assays commonly used for SC screening in urine were tested for their capability of detecting the new drug but failed due to insufficient cross‐reactivity.
Epizoochorous dispersal by ungulates depends on fur, grooming and social interactions
Authors: Liehrmann Océane , Jégoux Flore , Guilbert Marie‐Alice , Isselin‐Nondedeu Francis , Saïd Sonia , Locatelli Yann , Baltzinger Christophe
Published: January 2018

The transport phase of the animal‐mediated plant dispersal process is critical to dispersal effectiveness as it determines the spatial distribution of the diaspores released and their chance for further recruitment. Assessing this specific phase of the dispersal process generally requires combining diaspore retention times with the associated distances covered. Here, we specifically tested the effect of grooming behavior, interindividual contacts and ungulate fur on diaspore retention times and associated dispersal distances for the hooked diaspores of Xanthium strumarium L. experimentally attached to tamed individuals of three ungulate species. We used a comparative approach based on differing fur quality on different body zones of these three ungulates. During 6‐hr sessions, we monitored for grooming and social interactions that may induce intended or inadvertent diaspore detachment. Additionally, we proposed innovative approaches to directly assessing diaspore dispersal distances by red deer in situ. Fat‐tailed functions fitted diaspore retention time, highlighting the potential for long‐distance dispersal events. The longer the hair, the higher the retention capacity of diaspores in the animal's fur. As predicted, donkey retained diaspores longer than red deer and dwarf goat; and we also confirmed that diaspores attached to the short hair of the head fell off more quickly than did those on the other body zones. Dwarf goat groomed more often than both red deer and donkey, but also when it carried diaspores. Up to 14% of the diaspores detached from animal fur after specific grooming behavior. We observed, in controlled conditions, for the first time and for each ungulate species, interindividual transfers of diaspores, representing 5% of the diaspores attached to animals’ fur. Our results militate for incorporating animal behavior into plant dispersal modeling approaches.
Loss and delay analysis of non‐Poisson M2M traffic over LTE networks
Authors: Zarrini Morteza , Ghasemi Abdorasoul
Published: January 2018

In this work, loss rate and delay of non‐Poisson machine‐to‐machine (M2M) traffic in LTE networks have been studied. In contrast to prior works, which used Poisson process model for M2M traffic in their analysis, more realistic traffic models have been proposed, which follow the traffic patterns of M2M communications reported lately by 3GPP. A Markov‐modulated Poisson process and an approximated coupled Markov‐modulated Poisson process are adopted for modeling the uncoordinated and coordinated M2M network traffic, respectively. Moreover, fixed‐access grant time interval algorithm is used as a low‐overhead cluster–based scheduling algorithm to serve packets. Using some approximations, we first derive analytical results for the delay violation and packet loss probabilities of M2M traffic in Long‐Term Evolution networks in different scenarios. We then investigate the effect of buffer size on the quality of service of M2M user equipments. Specifically, in contrast to uncoordinated traffic model, it is shown that for the coordinated traffic model increasing the buffer size above a threshold is not effective in decreasing the loss probability of user equipments. Simulation results are provided to justify the analysis and the effect of buffer size on delay and loss probabilities.
Do betting advertisements contain attention strategies that may appeal to children? An interpretative content analysis
Authors: Pitt Hannah , Thomas Samantha L. , Bestman Amy , Randle Melanie , Daube Mike
Published: January 2018

Issue addressed

Concerns have been raised about the expansion of sports betting marketing and the impact it may have on children's gambling attitudes and behaviours. This study aimed to investigate the content of Australian betting advertisements to identify if they contained specific attention strategies that have been identified by tobacco, alcohol and gambling researchers as having particular appeal to children.

Methods

An interpretative content analysis of 91 advertisements from 11 corporate bookmakers was conducted. A search of specific attention strategies that may appeal to adults, but also have been demonstrated in the public health literature as having particular appeal for children was used to develop a coding framework. This framework was then applied to analyse the advertisements. Descriptive statistics were used to generate quantitative data and qualitative illustrations were used to provide examples of the strategies found within the advertisements.

Results

On average there were 7.6 attention strategies found per advertisement. The most common attention strategies were music (n = 80), voiceovers (n = 79) and catchy slogans (n = 78). There were some attention strategies that related specifically to betting, such as technology, and risk‐reducing promotions.

Conclusion

This research has demonstrated that the content of betting advertisements contains attention strategies that, based on the research findings from other areas of public health, may have particular appeal for children.

So what?

This research provides important evidence which could encourage researchers, regulators and policy makers to consider changes to current advertising regulations, to ensure children are protected from the potentially engaging and harmful attention strategies present in betting advertisements.
Body image diversity in the media: A content analysis of women's fashion magazines
Authors: de Freitas Catarina , Jordan Helen , Hughes Elizabeth K.
Published: January 2018

Issue addressed

The narrow representation of body image in the media has been linked to body dissatisfaction, particularly among readers of women's fashion magazines. Some countries have made efforts to improve body image diversity in the media and the fashion industry. This has included attempts to regulate minimum body size of models (eg, Israel, France), and the development of codes of practices such as the Australian Industry Code of Conduct on Body Image. However, there is little evidence of whether these efforts have impacted media content.

Method

This study aimed to gauge the state of body image diversity in the print media 5 years after the introduction of the Australian Code of Conduct via a content analysis of 13 Australian women's fashion magazines published in 2015.

Results

Results revealed low levels of diversity in body size, ethnicity and age among models depicted in fashion magazine images. Models were predominantly young, white and underweight.

Conclusion

The results suggest that efforts to improve body image diversity have had little impact on print media. Further research is needed to understand the barriers to increased diversity in the representation of body image in the media so that the industry and regulatory bodies can further address this important issue. This is increasingly pressing given the proliferation of content now enabled through online media platforms.
Are older Australians with chronic diseases online?
Authors: Burns Pippa , Jones Sandra C. , Caputi Peter , Iverson Don
Published: January 2018

Issue addressed

Health information can be easily and cheaply provided through the Internet. However, we do not know whether older adults, those people most likely to be living with a chronic disease, are online or whether they use the Internet to find health information.

Methods

In order to establish the proportion of older Australians online, the impact of their current health status and chronic disease diagnosis on Internet usage and whether they use the Internet to search for health information, a paper‐based survey was developed and mailed to 9000 older adults, resident in New South Wales, Australia (response rate = 46.8% ).

Results

Results showed that many older Australians are online (52.3%) and that the majority who are use the Internet to find health information (68.5%). Respondents were more likely to use the Internet if they reported good health. The presence of most chronic diseases reduced use of the Internet; however, this was not the case for those reporting asthma, anxiety or sleep apnoea. Internet use decreased as the number of reported co‐morbidities increased. However, once online, self‐perceived overall health and number of chronic diseases did not affect use of the Internet to find health information.

Conclusions

This study is important as there is currently little information available about Internet use for health information by older Australians. Findings show that the provision of health information online has the potential to reinforce existing barriers created by the social determinants of health.

So what?

There is a role for the Internet in providing preventative, health promotion information, to older adults, who are already online and younger, computer literate audiences. However, practitioners need to consider the fact that this mode of delivery reinforces existing social divides; requires people to have Internet access and be both literate and e‐literate.
Involvement of the delayed rectifier outward potassium channel Kv2.1 in methamphetamine‐induced neuronal apoptosis via the p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway
Authors: Zhu Jingying , Zang Songsong , Chen Xufeng , Jiang Lei , Gu Aihua , Cheng Jie , Zhang Li , Wang Jun , Xiao Hang
Published: January 2018

Methamphetamine (Meth) is an illicit psychostimulant with high abuse potential and severe neurotoxicity. Recent studies have shown that dysfunctions in learning and memory induced by Meth may partially reveal the mechanisms of neuronal channelopathies. Kv2.1, the primary delayed rectifying potassium channel in neurons, is responsible for mediating apoptotic current surge. However, whether Kv2.1 is involved in Meth‐mediated neural injury remains unknown. In the present study, the treatment of primary cultured hippocampal neurons with Meth indicated that Meth induced a time‐ and dose‐dependent augmentation of Kv2.1 protein expression, accompanied by elevated cleaved‐caspase 3 and declined bcl‐2/bax ratio. The blockage of Kv2.1 with the inhibitor GxTx‐1E or the knockdown of the channel noticeably abrogated the pro‐apoptotic effects mediated by Meth, demonstrating the specific roles of Kv2.1 in Meth‐mediated neural damage. Additionally, the p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling was demonstrated to be involved in Meth‐mediated Kv2.1 upregulation and in the subsequent pro‐apoptotic effects, as treatment with a p38 MAPK inhibitor significantly attenuated Meth‐mediated Kv2.1 upregulation and cell apoptosis. Of note, PRE‐084, a sigma‐1 receptor agonist, obviously attenuated Meth‐induced upregulation of Kv2.1 expression, neural apoptosis and p38 MAPK activation. Taken together, these results reveal a novel mechanism involved in Meth‐induced neural death with implications for therapeutic interventions for Meth users.
Three‐dimensional extrusion bioprinting of single‐ and double‐network hydrogels containing dynamic covalent crosslinks
Authors: Wang Leo L. , Highley Christopher B. , Yeh Yi‐Cheun , Galarraga Jonathan H. , Uman Selen , Burdick Jason A.
Published: January 2018

The fabrication of three‐dimensional (3D) scaffolds is indispensable to tissue engineering and 3D printing is emerging as an important approach towards this. Hydrogels are often used as inks in extrusion‐based 3D printing, including with encapsulated cells; however, numerous challenging requirements exist, including appropriate viscosity, the ability to stabilize after extrusion, and cytocompatibility. Here, we present a shear‐thinning and self‐healing hydrogel crosslinked through dynamic covalent chemistry for 3D bioprinting. Specifically, hyaluronic acid was modified with either hydrazide or aldehyde groups and mixed to form hydrogels containing a dynamic hydrazone bond. Due to their shear‐thinning and self‐healing properties, the hydrogels could be extruded for 3D printing of structures with high shape fidelity, stability to relaxation, and cytocompatibility with encapsulated fibroblasts (>80% viability). Forces for extrusion and filament sizes were dependent on parameters such as material concentration and needle gauge. To increase scaffold functionality, a second photocrosslinkable interpenetrating network was included that was used for orthogonal photostiffening and photopatterning through a thiol‐ene reaction. Photostiffening increased the scaffold's modulus (∼300%) while significantly decreasing erosion (∼70%), whereas photopatterning allowed for spatial modification of scaffolds with dyes. Overall, this work introduces a simple approach to both fabricate and modify 3D printed scaffolds. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 865–875, 2018.
Alternative foaming agents for topical treatment of ulcerative colitis
Authors: Asama Martin , Hall Alex , Qi Yijun , Moreau Branden , Walthier Heidi , Schaschwary Matthew , Bristow Blaine , Wang Qun
Published: January 2018

Approximately 907,000 Americans currently suffer from ulcerative colitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the large intestine or rectum. Treatment of this disease often includes anti‐inflammatory medication or immunosuppressants. Here foams are an attractive delivery platform, offering relatively high bioavailability, low systemic exposure, and improved patient comfort. However, the surfactants that generate these foams may adversely affect the diseased mucosa. Therefore, this project evaluated two alternative surfactants for use in topical drug delivery platforms: sodium caseinate and l‐α‐phosphatidylcholine. Both were compared to the biocompatible surfactant Pluronic® F‐127 using stability and density tests, and biocompatibility tests performed on mini‐guts. Sodium caseinate foams were less stable but denser than Pluronic® foams; however, they exhibited an unexpectedly low shelf‐life. l‐α‐phosphatidylcholine was an unsuccessful primary foaming agent owing to poor foamability at low concentrations. Mini‐gut growth rates were not significantly altered by surfactants, while morphology and an MTT assay identified Pluronic® as the most biocompatible surfactant at higher concentrations. These results clarify the possible challenges that the tested surfactants may present in topical delivery platforms and show the relevance of permeability to tissue–surfactant interaction tests. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1448–1456, 2018.
Novel large‐pore lightweight polypropylene mesh has better biocompatibility for rat model of hernia
Authors: Qiu Wangwang , Zhong Cheng , Xu Rui , Zou Ting , Wang Fujun , Fan Youben , Wang Lu , Yang Zhili
Published: January 2018

Abdominal wall hernias are repaired with tension‐free prosthetic materials but there remains a foreign body response (FBR) to commonly used polypropylene mesh. Thus, we should optimize mesh materials to improve the patient outcomes after surgery. A polypropylene mesh was developed with wrap knitting technique. The physical, mechanical and biocompatible characteristics were tested in a rat abdominal hernia model and compared to ULTRAPRO and Easy Prosthesis. Polypropylene mesh of two pore sizes was developed (LP‐WKPM and SP‐WKPM). Compared with ULTRAPRO and Easy Prosthesis mesh, the novel mesh were lighter, thinner, and stronger (p < 0.05). Among the four implanted mesh types, there were fewer inflammatory cells and foreign body giant cells surrounding LP‐WKPM fibers (p < 0.05), and significantly fewer mononuclear cells and less neovascularization between LP‐WKPM fibers (p < 0.05) On day 15, 30 and 90 after implantation there were no differences in foreign body giant cells compared to 15 days after implantation (p>0.05). We developed a novel large‐pore lightweight polypropylene mesh that produced less FBR and better biocompatibility in an abdominal wall hernia model. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1269–1275, 2018.
Effect of Zoledronic Acid and Denosumab in Patients With Low Back Pain and Modic Change: A Proof-of-Principle Trial
Authors: Cai Guoqi , Laslett Laura L , Aitken Dawn , Halliday Andrew , Pan Feng , Otahal Petr , Speden Deborah , Winzenberg Tania M , Jones Graeme
Published: January 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of zoledronic acid (ZA) and denosumab on low back pain (LBP) and Modic change (MC) over 6 months. Adults aged ≥40 years with significant LBP for at least 6 months duration and MC (type 1, 2, or mixed) were randomized to receive ZA (5 mg/100 mL), denosumab (60 mg), or placebo. LBP was measured monthly by visual analogue scale (VAS) and the LBP Rating Scale (RS). MC was measured from MRIs of T12–S1 vertebrae at screening and 6 months. A total of 103 participants with moderate/severe LBP (mean VAS = 57 mm; mean RS = 18) and median total MC area 538 mm2 were enrolled. Compared to placebo, LBP reduced significantly at 6 months in the ZA group for RS (–3.3; 95% CI, –5.9 to –0.7) but not VAS (–8.2; 95% CI, –18.8 to +2.4) with similar findings for denosumab (RS, –3.0; 95% CI, –5.7 to –0.3; VAS, –10.7; 95% CI, –21.7 to +0.2). There was little change in areal MC size overall and no difference between groups with the exception of denosumab in those with type 1 Modic change (–22.1 mm2; 95% CI, –41.5 to –2.7). In post hoc analyses, both medications significantly reduced VAS LBP in participants with milder disc degeneration and non-neuropathic pain, and denosumab reduced VAS LBP in those with type 1 MC over 6 months, compared to placebo. Adverse events were more frequent in the ZA group. These results suggests a potential therapeutic role for ZA and denosumab in MC-associated LBP. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Ostm1 Bifunctional Roles in Osteoclast Maturation: Insights From a Mouse Model Mimicking a Human OSTM1 Mutation
Authors: Pata Monica , Vacher Jean
Published: January 2018

Ostm1 mutations are responsible for the most severe form of osteopetrosis in human and mice. To gain insight into Ostm1 cellular functions, we engineered a conditional in-frame deletion of the Ostm1 transmembrane domain and generated the first Ostm1 mouse model with a human mutation. Systemic targeting of Ostm1 loss of transmembrane domain produced osteopetrosis, as in the null Ostm1 gl/gl mouse. Significantly, conditional osteoclast targeting of Ostm1 resulted in similar osteopetrosis, thereby demonstrating that the intrinsic Ostm1 osteoclast deficiency is solely responsible for the mouse phenotype. Our analysis showed oversized osteoclasts with enhanced multinucleation associated with stimulation of intracellular calcium levels, of Nfatc1 nuclear re-localization, and of specific downstream Nfatc1 target genes, providing compelling evidence that Ostm1 is a negative regulator of preosteoclast fusion. Moreover, mature OCs with Ostm1 loss of transmembrane domain show appropriate levels of intracellular acidification but an altered distribution pattern, highlighting misregulation of endolysosome localization and dispersion. Consistently, the hydrolases tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) and cathepsin K (Ctsk) normally produced are sequestered within the osteoclasts and are not extracellularly secreted. These studies defined bifunctional roles for Ostm1 as a major regulator of preosteoclast cytoskeletal rearrangements toward cell multinucleation and of mature osteoclast intracellular lysosomal trafficking and exocytosis mechanism, both of which are essential for bone resorption. Importantly, these Ostm1 molecular and regulatory functions could serve as preclinical targets in this mouse model toward osteoclastogenic pathologies as osteoporosis and inflammation-induced bone loss. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Inhibition of CaMKK2 Enhances Fracture Healing by Stimulating Indian Hedgehog Signaling and Accelerating Endochondral Ossification
Authors: Williams Justin N , Kambrath Anuradha Valiya , Patel Roshni B , Kang Kyung Shin , Mével Elsa , Li Yong , Cheng Ying-Hua , Pucylowski Austin J , Hassert Mariah A , Voor Michael J , Kacena Melissa A , Thompson William R , Warden Stuart J , Burr David B , Allen Matthew R , Robling Alexander G , Sankar Uma
Published: January 2018

Approximately 10% of all bone fractures do not heal, resulting in patient morbidity and healthcare costs. However, no pharmacological treatments are currently available to promote efficient bone healing. Inhibition of Ca2+/calmodulin (CaM)-dependent protein kinase kinase 2 (CaMKK2) reverses age-associated loss of trabecular and cortical bone volume and strength in mice. In the current study, we investigated the role of CaMKK2 in bone fracture healing and show that its pharmacological inhibition using STO-609 accelerates early cellular and molecular events associated with endochondral ossification, resulting in a more rapid and efficient healing of the fracture. Within 7 days postfracture, treatment with STO-609 resulted in enhanced Indian hedgehog signaling, paired-related homeobox (PRX1)-positive mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) recruitment, and chondrocyte differentiation and hypertrophy, along with elevated expression of osterix, vascular endothelial growth factor, and type 1 collagen at the fracture callus. Early deposition of primary bone by osteoblasts resulted in STO-609–treated mice possessing significantly higher callus bone volume by 14 days following fracture. Subsequent rapid maturation of the bone matrix bestowed fractured bones in STO-609–treated animals with significantly higher torsional strength and stiffness by 28 days postinjury, indicating accelerated healing of the fracture. Previous studies indicate that fixed and closed femoral fractures in the mice take 35 days to fully heal without treatment. Therefore, our data suggest that STO-609 potentiates a 20% acceleration of the bone healing process. Moreover, inhibiting CaMKK2 also imparted higher mechanical strength and stiffness at the contralateral cortical bone within 4 weeks of treatment. Taken together, the data presented here underscore the therapeutic potential of targeting CaMKK2 to promote efficacious and rapid healing of bone fractures and as a mechanism to strengthen normal bones. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Functional Performances on Admission Predict In-Hospital Falls, Injurious Falls, and Fractures in Older Patients: A Prospective Study
Authors: Hars Mélany , Audet Marie-Claude , Herrmann François , De Chassey Jean , Rizzoli René , Reny Jean-Luc , Gold Gabriel , Ferrari Serge , Trombetti Andrea
Published: January 2018

Falls are common among older inpatients and remain a great challenge for hospitals. Despite the relevance of physical impairments to falls, the prognostic value of performance-based functional measures for in-hospital falls and injurious falls remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the predictive ability and accuracy of various functional tests administered at or close to admission in a geriatric hospital to identify in-hospital fallers and injurious fallers. In this prospective study, conducted in a geriatric hospital in Geneva, Switzerland, 807 inpatients (mean age 85.0 years) were subjected to a battery of functional tests administered by physiotherapists within 3 days (interquartile range 1 to 6) of admission, including Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), simplified Tinetti, and Timed Up and Go tests. Patients were prospectively followed up for falls and injurious falls until discharge using mandatory standardized incident report forms and electronic patients’ records. During a median length of hospital stay of 23 days (interquartile range 14 to 36), 329 falls occurred in 189 (23.4%) patients, including 161 injurious falls of which 24 were serious. In-hospital fallers displayed significantly poorer functional performances at admission on all tests compared with non-fallers (p < 0.001 for all). In multivariate analysis controlling for age, sex, previous falls, and fall as cause of admission, poorer functional performances on all functional tests predicted in-hospital falls and injurious falls (p < 0.001 for all). The SPPB only significantly predicted serious injurious falls (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.76; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60–0.96) and fractures (adjusted OR = 0.76; 95% CI 0.59–0.98). In conclusion, poor functional performances, as assessed by SPPB, are independent predictors of in-hospital falls, injurious falls, and fractures in patients admitted to a geriatric hospital. These findings should help to design preventive strategies for in-hospital falls and support the adoption of objective performance-based functional measures into routine hospital practice. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Future Osteoporotic Fracture Risk Related to Lumbar Vertebral Trabecular Attenuation Measured at Routine Body CT
Authors: Lee Scott J , Graffy Peter M , Zea Ryan D , Ziemlewicz Timothy J , Pickhardt Perry J
Published: January 2018

We sought to determine if vertebral trabecular attenuation values measured on routine body computed tomography (CT) scans obtained for a variety of unrelated indications can predict future osteoporotic fractures at multiple skeletal sites. For this Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)-compliant and Institutional Review Board (IRB)-approved retrospective cohort study, trabecular attenuation of the first lumbar vertebra was measured in 1966 consecutive older adults who underwent chest and/or abdominal CT at a single institution over the course of 1 year. New pathologic fragility fractures that occurred after a patient's CT study date were identified through an electronic health record database query using International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9 codes for vertebral, hip, and extremity fractures. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression were performed to determine the effect of L1 trabecular attenuation on fracture-free survival. Age at CT, sex, and presence of a prior fragility fracture were included as confounders in multivariate survival analysis. Model discriminative capability was assessed through calculation of an optimism-corrected concordance index. A total of 507 patients (mean age 73.4 ± 6.3 years; 277 women, 230 men) were included in the final analysis. The median post-CT follow-up interval was 5.8 years (interquartile range 2.1–11.0 years). Univariate analysis showed that L1 attenuation values ≤90 Hounsfield units (HU) are significantly associated with decreased fracture-free survival (p < 0.001 by log-rank test). After adjusting for age, sex, prior fracture, glucocorticoid use, bisphosphonate use, chronic kidney disease, tobacco use, ethanol abuse, cancer history, and rheumatoid arthritis history, multivariate analysis demonstrated a persistent modest effect of L1 attenuation on fracture-free survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.63 per 10-unit increase; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.47–0.85). The model concordance index was 0.700. Ten-year probabilities for major osteoporosis-related fractures straddled the treatment threshold for most subcohorts over the observed L1 HU range. In conclusion, for patients undergoing body CT scanning for any indication, L1 vertebral trabecular attenuation is a simple measure that, when ≤90 HU, identifies patients with a significant decrease in fracture-free survival. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Adsorption of phenol from aqueous solutions using interlayer modified titanate nanotubes
Authors: Hu Lihe , Zhang Jixiang , Li Nian , Zhang Shudong , Chen Fa , Ji Bo , Li Haifeng , Wang Zhenyang
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Layered titanate nanostructures have long been studied as efficient adsorbents for different kinds of pollutants such as heavy metals and dye cations. As to the electro‐neutral and anionic organic pollutants, titanates show relatively low adsorption capacity due to a negatively charged surface and lack of organophilic affinity. This research focuses on the interlayer modification of titanate nanotubes for adsorption of this kind of organic pollutants. Phenol was chosen as a representative target.

RESULTS

Two surfactants, hexadecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (HTAB) and dodecyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium bromide (DDBAB), were chosen as organic modifier for the interlayer modification. Detailed characterization proved that surfactant molecules were intercalated into the interlayer and surface properties of titanates were successfully modified. Adsorption behavior of phenol was then systematically investigated. Results show that DDBAB modified titanates are efficient phenol adsorbents, possessing better performance than HTAB modified titanates. The high adsorption capacity is attributed to the special structure of titanates and the affinity between phenyl groups in DDBAB and phenol. Subsequently, thermally induced phase change of spent adsorbents led to complete regeneration.

CONCLUSION

Interlayer modified titanate nanotubes were efficient phenol adsorbents with a maximum adsorption capacity of 226.24 mg g‐1. Complete regeneration of spent adsorbents was also achieved. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Noninvasive Studies of Kupffer Cells In Situ by Magnetometry
Authors: Gehr Peter , Brain Joseph D , Bloom Steven B
Published: January 2018

Magnetic iron oxide (gamma-Fe2O3) particles were injected intravenously into four male New Zealand white rabbits. Most of these particles were phagocytized by the Kupffer cells. When the animal was placed in a magnetic field, the particles in the liver became magnetized and aligned. After removal of the external magnetizing field, the particles collectively produced a remanent magnetic field which was measured at the body surface. The strength of this field was proportional to the amount of magnetic particles present in the liver; sequential measurements thus allowed us to describe their disappearance from the liver. After each magnetization, the remanent field rapidly decayed due to particle rotation (relaxation). Since the particles were confined in phagosomes or secondary lysosomes we conclude that movements of these organelles due to cytoplasmic motion caused relaxation. Magnetic particles might therefore serve as probes for cytoplasmic motility of Kupffer cells in situ.
Characterization of Rabbit Neutrophil Membrane Proteins. A 140K Major Membrane Protein is the Predominant Con A-Binding Protein
Authors: Williams Deborah J , Becker Elmer L
Published: January 2018

The major plasma membrane proteins of rabbit neutrophils were characterized by SDS-PAGE, surface iodination, 125l-concanavalin A binding, and detergent extraction. Neutrophil membranes were prepared which lacked significant intracellular contamination with good retention of protease-sensitive proteins. The major protein and predominant Con A-binding protein was as surface exposed, 140,000 D (gp 140) protein which was solubilized by nonionic detergents but not low ionic strength. Actin and myosin but not other cytosol proteins were prominently associated with the isolated membrane particularly in a Triton-insoluble form.

Membranes were also prepared from surface-iodinated neutrophils previously stimulated with a chemotactic peptide or degranulated. The granule membrane enzyme alkaline phosphatase was incorporated into the plasma membrane fraction of degranulated neutrophils. However, the membrane proteins in the different membrane preparations were identical on SDS-PAGE and autoradiography. Therefore, using these techniques, no major alterations in protein composition of the plasma membrane could be detected following stimulation or degranulation of rabbit neutrophils.
Concomitant Induction of an Inflammatory Response and Immunosuppression by an Extract From Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Otokunefor T V , Galsworthy S B
Published: January 2018

An immunosuppressive agent (ISA) present in an aqueous extract from Listeria monocytogenes diminished the immune response in vivo to subsequently injected heterologous antigen. Intraperitoneal injection of ISA induced an inflammatory response and activation of the reticuloendothelial system, both of which coincided with the period of immune hyporesponsiveness. Mice treated with ISA exhibited increased accumulation of labelled antigen to phagocytic peritoneal cells but decreased delivery of labelled antigen to the spleen. Both delivery of antigen to spleen and the immune response could be improved by injecting either ISA or antigen or both intravenously, or by increasing the dose of antigen. The response of ISA-treated animals could also be improved by intraperitoneal injection of latex beads, colloidal carbon, or carrageenan shortly (60 min) before immunization. Spleen cells from ISA-treated mice adoptively transferred to irradiated syngeneic recipients were able to mount a normal immune response. These results suggest that ingestion of antigen by the enlarged population of phagocytes in peritoneal cavities of ISA-treated mice prevented antigen delivery to the spleen and was partly responsible for the observed immunosuppression.
The Effect of Temperature and Starvation on the Clearance of Bacteria From the Bloodstream of Rainbow Trout (Salmo gairdneri Richardson)
Authors: Ferguson H W , Claxton M J , Lesperance J
Published: January 2018

The blood clearance of 51Cr-labeled heat-killed Salmonella pullorum was generally biphasic and exponential for each phase. Starvation had little significant effect on this pattern, although the rate of first phase clearance was probably slower. Raising the water temperature from 8°C to 18°C enhanced the rate of clearance of the second phase to almost exactly double that at 8°C. At 18 hr postinoculation, the spleen contained much more radioactivity per gm than any other tissue. This finding is in marked contrast to earlier work that showed that at 1 hr postinoculation, the kidney contained the most, and it suggests that redistribution of bacteria occurred. The most distinct effect of temperature stress on tissue localization of bacteria was in the heart: A rising temperature stress caused increased numbers of bacteria to localize within the heart. Less clear-cut changes were also seen in other tissues with different treatments.

With the possible exception of starvation effecting a slower first phase clearance rate, we have been unable to demonstrate that the vascular clearance mechanisms, including the reticuloendothelial system, are significantly compromised by raising the water temperature or by starvation.
Human Monocyte to Macrophage Differentiation In Vitro: Characterization and Mechanisms of the Increased Antibody-Dependent Cytotoxicity Associated With Differentiation
Authors: Sagone Arthur L , Rinehart John J
Published: January 2018

Human monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation in vitro is associated with marked enhancement in the capacity to bind and lyse antibody-opsonized red blood cells (rbc). We previously demonstrated that this was due in part to an increased number of Fc receptors. The current study further characterized the mechanism of this enhanced macrophage as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). We observed that 1) macrophages but not monocytes lysed “innocent bystander” rbc as well as opsonized rbc; 2) macrophages exhibited an increased hexose monophosphate shunt activity compared to monocytes; 3) macrophage produced H2O2 but not OH·; and 4) macrophage lyses of opsonized rbc were 80% O2 dependent. We conclude that human monocyte-to-macrophage maturation in vitro is associated with an enhanced O2-dependent cytotoxic mechanism normally present in monocytes. The enhanced H2O2 production noted in macrophages may reflect an increased generation of several other reactive oxygen species in these cells. One of these oxygen radicals may be the mediator of the enhanced macrophage cytotoxicity and of the “innocent bystander” phenomenon observed.
Purification of Murine Macrophage Cytotoxin (MCT)
Authors: Klostergaard Jim , Reidarson Thomas H , Granger Gale A
Published: January 2018

Macrophage cytotoxin (MCT) can be induced from peritoneal exudate macrophage monolayers (PEMM) obtained from thioglycollate-treated mice, by exposure of PEMM to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or to double-stranded polyinosinic: poly-cytidylic acid (poly-l:poly-C). MCT is highly labile even upon storage at 4°C, and is irreversibly denatured by isolectricfocusing, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the absence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), or by exposure to ethylene glycol. α-MCT [150,000 daltons (d)] has been highly purified (2,000- to 5,000-fold) from serum-free, PEMM supernatants by a scheme of concentration, molecular sieving on Ultrogel AcA 44, negative hydrophobic affinity chromatography on benzyl-agarose, and ion exchange chromatography on aminoethyl-agarose. The scheme results in high yield of MCT, in part because of the rapidity with which the labile toxin is manipulated due to the tandemization of the chromatographic steps.
Involution of the Chicken Bursa of Fabricius: A Light Microscopic Study With Special Reference to Transport of Colloidal Carbon in the Involuting Bursa
Authors: Naukkarinen Anita , Sorvari Tapani E
Published: January 2018

The involution of the bursa of Fabricius in White Leghorn chickens and the transport of colloidal carbon in the involuting bursa were studied on light microscopy. In chickens, from newly hatched to 23.5 weeks of age, the bursa was weighed, its histology was described, and the mitoses in the cortical and medullary compartments of the lymphoid follicles were counted.

Decrease in bursal weight and in the number of mitoses were observed between 10 and 16 weeks of age. During week 17.5, the follicle-associated epithelium began to lose its endocytic capability, and mucin droplets appeared in the follicular medulla initiating the large mucoid cysts that were seen in the later phases of involution. The involutionary process was almost completed by week 23.5, when the bursa appeared as a fibrotic residue without intact lymphoepithelial structures. The particulate tracer used, colloidal carbon, was not observed to be transported to other organs from the bursa.

The present study gives further support to the idea that after completing its central immune function in 6 weeks [21] the bursa, as estimated histologically, still possesses capacity to function like a peripheral lymphoid organ until 16 weeks of age.
Macrophage Microtubules: An Optimized Method for the Assay of Tubulin Concentration and State of Polymerization in Macrophages
Authors: Seger Medy , Pick Edgar
Published: January 2018

We describe a method for the assay of total tubulin content and the tubulin dimer/polymer ratio in cultured macrophages (MPs). The assay is based on the specific binding of [3H]colchicine to tubulin dimer units and on the separation of free and tubulin-complexed [3H]colchicine on diethylaminoethyl (DEAE)-cellulose filters. The native state of microtubules (MTs) was conserved by suspending the cells in a microtubule-stabilizing solution specifically adapted for use with MPs and by disrupting the cells under carefully chosen conditions. Intact MTs were isolated from the cell homogenate by centrifugation at 150,000 × g and were subsequently depolymerized. [3H]Colchicine binding assays were performed on both the supernatant fraction, containing the pool of soluble tubulin, and on the deploymerized MTs. By using this method, we examined the influence of low temperature and of a number of agents known to affect MP function, on the tubulin dimer/polymer ratio in guinea pig peritoneal MPs. The results of the biochemical assay correlated well with the published information, derived by morphologic and functional approaches, on the effect of cold and of these agents on MTs in phagocytic cells.
The Proliferation Kinetics of Pulmonary Alveolar Macrophages
Authors: Coggle J E , Tarling J D
Published: January 2018

In this study the proliferation kinetics of pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAMs) are determined using [3H]thymidine labeling, flow cytofluorimetry, metaphase arrest, and the percentage of labeled mitoses. The demonstration of in situ PAM proliferation is demonstrated beyond doubt. Comparison of the turnover time, calculated from cell kinetic parameters, with the experimentally determined migration times shows that the contribution proliferating PAMs make to their own population size is significant. Indeed, a strong case may be made to show that some 70% of the PAM population is produced by intra-alveolar divisions of “free” PAMs.
Function of Human Alveolar Macrophages From Normal Volunteers and Cigarette Smokers: Effect of Cystic Fibrosis Serum
Authors: Thomassen Mary Jane , Demko Catherine A , Winnie Glenna B , Sherman James M
Published: January 2018

Previous studies demonstrated that serum from cystic fibrosis (CF) patients specifically inhibited Pseudomonas phagocytosis by both normal and CF alveolar macrophages. In the present study, inhibition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa phagocytosis by CF serum was significantly less on macrophages from heavy smokers than on cells from normal volunteers (P < 0.01). Normal volunteer cells cultured for 10 days were also less affected by CF serum as compared to cells cultured for 24 hours from the same individual (P < 0.01). Altered morphology (increased size and spreading on glass surfaces) and increased intracellular glycosidases of these cells were suggestive of a difference in the state of activation compared to normal cells. Macrophages from heavy smokers and 10-day cultures from normal volunteers were inhibited by heated CF serum, suggesting that complement-mediated opsonization was responsible for attachment or ingestion of P. aeruginosa in CF serum by these macrophages.
Functional Resistance of Inflammatory Macrophages to Methotrexate In Vitro
Authors: Zeller Janice M , Gudewicz Paul W
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of high and low therapeutic doses of methotrexate (MTX) on macrophage metabolism and function in vitro. Monolayers of elicited rat peritoneal macrophages (PM) were exposed to a wide range of MTX concentrations (10–8 M–10–3 M) for 24 or 48 hr and macrophage RNA and protein metabolism were evaluated by the incorporation of [3H]5-uridine and [14C]1-leucine, respectively, into trichloroacetic acid (TCA)-precipitable material. Macrophage functional activity was examined by measuring the uptake of [14C]Pseudomonas aeruginosa to assess phagocytosis and the release of 51Cr from antibody-coated [51Cr]sheep red blood cells (SRBC) to assess antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Following a 24-hr incubation with 10–3 M MTX, incorporation of [3H]5-uridine into PM monolayers was enhanced 79% when compared to control monolayers (p < 0.005). Washout studies revealed that the stimulation of uridine incorporation was no longer observed by 24 hr following the removal of MTX from the culture medium. Incubation with 10–3 M MTX for 48 hr returned uridine incorporation to control levels, although leucine incorporation into protein was reduced by 22% (p < 0.01). The depression in leucine incorporation in the presence of 10–3 M MTX was not reversed after the removal of MTX from the culture medium. Uptake of [14C]P. aeruginosa was not altered following a 24- or 48-hr incubation with either 10–7 M or 10–3 M MTX. Similarly, [51Cr]SRBC cytolysis was not affected by a 2-hr preincubation with and continuous exposure to between 10–8 M and 10–3 M MTX. These results demonstrate that incubation of inflammatory macrophages with clinically high doses of MTX can alter macrophage RNA and protein metabolism without producing demonstrable changes in macrophage functional activity.
Effect of Soluble Antigen on the Ellipsoid-Associated Cells of the Chicken's Spleen
Authors: Oláh Imre , Glick Bruce , Taylor Robert L
Published: January 2018

The ellipsoid-associated cells (EAC) localize on the surface of the ellipsoid. They bind the IV injected horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and bovine serum albumin (BSA), migrate to the red pulp and then enter the systemic circulation. After protein injection, the number of white blood cells increased above the normal level. The highest number of white blood cells occurred between 4 and 6 hr after HRP injection. In this period, the cell enhancement resulted in HRP-positive mononuclear cells which might come from the spleen. This cell population may vary in size and number in the blood and may be identical with the dendritic cell of the chicken. The other type of blood mononuclear cell is histologically identical with the classical monocyte endogenous peroxidase positive type and their number is lower than that of the former. This type of monocytic (MN) cell could be of bone marrow origin.