bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial distribution of mammography adherence in a Swiss urban population and its association with socioeconomic status
Authors: Sandoval José Luis , Himsl Rebecca , Theler Jean‐Marc , Gaspoz Jean‐Michel , Joost Stéphane , Guessous Idris
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Local physical and social environment has a defining influence on individual behavior and health‐related outcomes. However, it remains undetermined if its impact is independent of individual socioeconomic status. In this study, we evaluated the spatial distribution of mammography adherence in the state of Geneva (Switzerland) using individual‐level data and assessed its independence from socioeconomic status (SES).

Methods

Georeferenced individual‐level data from the population‐based cross‐sectional Bus Santé study (n = 5002) were used to calculate local indicators of spatial association (LISA) and investigate the spatial dependence of mammography adherence. Spatial clusters are reported without adjustment; adjusted for neighborhood income and individual educational attainment; and demographic factors (age and Swiss nationality). The association between adjusted clusters and the proximity to the nearest screening center was also evaluated.

Results

Mammography adherence was not randomly distributed throughout Geneva with clusters geographically coinciding with known SES distributions. After adjustment for SES indicators, clusters were reduced to 56.2% of their original size (n = 1033). Adjustment for age and nationality further reduced the number of individuals exhibiting spatially dependent behavior (36.5% of the initial size). The identified SES‐independent hot spots and cold spots of mammography adherence were not explained by proximity to the nearest screening center.

Conclusions

SES and demographic factors play an important role in shaping the spatial distribution of mammography adherence. However, the spatial clusters persisted after confounder adjustment indicating that additional neighborhood‐level determinants could influence mammography adherence and be the object of targeted public health interventions.
A novel unembalmed human cadaveric limb model for assessing conformational changes in self‐expanding nitinol stents in the popliteal artery
Authors: Shurtleff Eric , Vanderhyde Mariam , Fitzwater Fallon , Masoomi Reza , Maletsky Lorin , Thomas Pamela , Vamanan Karthik , Gupta Kamal
Published: October 2018

Objective

To develop an unembalmed human cadaveric lower limb model as a more realistic environment for testing self‐expanding nitinol stents. We studied conformational changes and strain induced by knee flexion in nitinol stents deployed in the popliteal artery (PA).

Methods

One Lifestent® each was deployed into one limb of four cadavers (control group), while the contralateral leg received a different stent (Absolute®, Protégé Everflex®, Supera®, and Gore Viabahn®). The limbs were mounted on a quasi‐static knee rig (QKR) and X‐ray imaging was performed at pre‐defined knee flexion angles. A least‐squares solution to the equation of a circle was used to assess radius of curvature at flexion points (FP), and nominal strain was calculated for each stented artery.

Results

There were differences but also some similarities in conformational changes seen in the various stents. Knee flexion produced at least two FP in all stents. The mean radius of curvature decreased with increasing degrees of flexion but more so in distal (main) than proximal (accessory) FP (22 mm vs. 11 mm) in all stents. Supera® stent had the greatest relative radii of curvatures, and Absolute® stent had the highest strain value in comparison to the contralateral PA as the control group.

Conclusion

This study describes a novel human cadaveric limb model for testing self‐expanding nitinol stents implanted in the PA. Several parameters of conformational change in the stented PA such as FP formation, FP translocation and strain induced by axial compression were described. These may be useful for developing new stents for the PA location.
A double‐hit High‐grade B‐cell lymphoma with three‐way translocation t(3;8;14)(q27;q24;q32) involving BCL6, MYC, and IGH
Authors: De Paoli Elena , Bandiera Laura , Ravano Emanuele , Cesana Clara , Grillo Giovanni , Mancini Valentina , De Canal Gabriella , Bonoldi Emanuela , Soriani Silvia
Published: October 2018

Key Clinical Message

We describe an High‐grade B‐cell lymphoma case, in which a complex translocation t(3;8;14) with effects on the genes BCL6, MYC, and IGH, was detected. This case could be the first double‐hit lymphoma with a single chromosome rearrangement causing the double effect with three genes involved.
Carbon Dioxide Absorption into Stirred Emulsions of n‐Alkanes
Authors: Mohsenzadeh Elmira , Schumpe Adrian
Published: October 2018

Volumetric mass transfer coefficients kLa for CO2 absorption into n‐alkane/water emulsions were determined at oil volume fractions of 0–100 % in a stirred tank at a stirring speed of 1000 min−1. The oil was n‐heptane, n‐hexadecane, or n‐dodecane. The decrease of kLa with increasing volume fraction of dispersed oil can be uniformly correlated to the emulsion viscosity with the power of −0.72. Only the addition of n‐heptane caused a strong increase of the mass transfer coefficient. Upon addition of the surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate to n‐heptane emulsions, kLa decreased as for the other oils. The increase can therefore be attributed to the spreading of n‐heptane on the bubble surface enabling gas‐oil contact, whereas spreading is inhibited by the ionic surfactant.
Phosphine Oxidation with Water and Ferrocenium(III) Cation Induced by Visible‐Light Irradiation
Authors: Tanabe Yoshiaki , Nakajima Kazunari , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: October 2018

Stoichiometric oxidation of phosphines with water and ferrocenium(III) cation as the oxygen atom source and the oxidizing reagent, respectively, was achieved in acetonitrile under visible‐light irradiation by using 2,6‐lutidine as the proton acceptor. The reaction required light irradiation, under which fluorescence was observed for the acetonitrile solution of the ferrocenium(III) cation.
Unsuspected Stewart–Treves syndrome clinically mimicked by apparent bullous erysipelas and a systematic review of dermatological presentations of the classical Stewart–Treves syndrome
Authors: da Costa Vieira René Aloisio , de Araujo Silva Igor , de Oliveira‐Junior Idam , de Almeida Santos Yamashita Mauricio Eiji , da Silva Sandra Regina Morini
Published: October 2018

Background

Stewart Treves–Syndrome (STS) was first characterized as angiosarcoma in the homolateral limb of a patient with breast cancer and lymphedema. Now, other conditions represent STS. It's a rare condition. The diagnosis is easier in the presence of single or multiple purple nodules. Even though other dermatological aspects have been reported, no study has grouped its characteristics.

Aim

Evaluate the dermatological characteristics of classical STS (c‐STS).

Methods and Results

We report a patient with chronic lymphedema with a history of recurrent erysipelas that rapidly developed multiple papules in the superior limb. It was initially diagnosed as bullous erysipelas, but unsatisfactory evolution led to biopsy, which demonstrated an unsuspected epithelioid angiosarcoma. We have also performed a review of dermatologic aspects of c‐STS using PubMed and Lilacs databases. PICTOS methodology and PRISMA flow chart were considered. The main dermatological aspects associated with c‐CTS were summarized. Using a systematic evaluation from 109 articles, 29 were selected and 44 patients were described to whom we added one case. The mean time with lymphedema was 10 years. Of the patients analyzed, 97.2% were female; 95.6% were submitted to radical mastectomy; 81.2% presented with multiple lesions, 67.4% of the lesions were reported as nodules or tumors, 53.4% were purple, 33.4% were associated with an ecchymotic halo, and 33.4% were ulcerated lesions.

Conclusion

When evaluating patients with chronic lymphedema with new dermatological abnormalities, clinical suspicion, or unfavorable evolution, the knowledge of clinical signs is important for diagnosis, and a biopsy must be considered. Papules associated with erythematous‐wine color and bluish hematoma aspect must raise clinical suspicion.
Objects as culture‐specific referents of color terms in Russian
Authors: Griber Yulia A. , Mylonas Dimitris , Paramei Galina V.
Published: October 2018

The present study is an extension of our analysis of Russian basic color terms (BCTs) elicited in a web‐based psycholinguistic experiment. Color samples (N = 600) were approximately uniformly distributed in the Munsell color solid. An unconstrained color‐naming method was employed. Native Russian speakers (N = 713; 333 males) participated in the study. Among 1422 elicited unique color words, 698 terms (49%) were derived from object names. Here we explore object‐derived non‐BCTs, focusing on broad classes of names referred to objects, categories within these, and the inventory of color terms, as well as their frequency, patterns of derivation, and derivational productivity. Six classes of object referents were identified: flora, fauna, inanimate nature, food and beverages, man‐made objects, body and bodily products. In detail, 20 most frequent object‐derived terms are reported. These are accompanied by analysis of gender differences and representation of the terms' denotata on the Munsell Mercator projection. In addition, Russian object‐derived color terms are related to those in English; discussed are differences between the 2 languages in the color term classes, inventories and incidences. We conclude that Russian object‐derived color terms follow the generic metonymy pattern, that is, signifying color of objects in the speakers' natural environment. The inventory is also language‐specific, reflecting social practices, preferences and views entrenched in the traditional Russian culture. Furthermore, recent extensive development of the inventory signals 2 novel phenomena: marked globalization influence, surfacing as abundant transliteration of English referent loanwords, and noticeable sociolectal diversification that manifests itself by novel evocative color terms, particularly in marketing and advertisement.
Improved Utilization of Sunlight Through the Incidence Dependence of the Photonic Stop Band: A g‐C3N4‐Embedded Fluorine‐Doped Tin Oxide (FTO) Photonic Crystal Film
Authors: Xiao Ye , Chen Mengshi , Zhang Menglong
Published: October 2018

Photonic crystal fluorine‐doped tin oxide (PC‐FTO) films are fabricated on FTO glass to supply an available surface area to embed a photoactive material, and also improve the overall photon–electron conversion efficiency under illumination with light of a specific incident range. The nanoscale g‐C3N4 photocatalyst is synthesized directly inside the PC‐FTO film from a liquid precursor, without the addition of any surface reagent or noble metal particles. The photonic stop band (PSB) of the PC‐FTO is studied by diffuse‐reflectance UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy (DRUVS) under conditions of a different incidence angle of the light. Photoelectrochemistry (PEC) is used to demonstrate the influence of the PSB on the photocatalytic performance of g‐C3N4@PC‐FTO.
Participation of ATP‐sensitive K+ channels and μ‐opioid receptors in the antinociceptive synergism of the paracetamol–tapentadol co‐administration in the formalin‐induced pain assay in mice
Authors: Zapata‐Morales Juan R. , Alonso‐Castro Ángel J. , Pérez‐Gutiérrez Salud , Rojas‐Bedolla Edgar Isaac , Sánchez‐Enriquez Sergio , Rivas‐Carrillo Jorge David , Serafín‐Higuera Nicolás A. , Isiordia‐Espinoza Mario A.
Published: October 2018

Preclinical Research & Development

The purpose of this study was to assess the interaction and mechanisms of action of the paracetamol‐tapentadol combination in the formalin‐induced pain model in mice. Paracetamol (56.23–562.3 mg/kg, i.p.) or tapentadol (1–10 mg/kg, i.p.) were administered 15 min prior the intraplantar injection of formalin. The ED50 value of each drug was determined through the dose–response curves. The ED50 values were used to calculate the combinations in three fixed proportions (1:1, 1:3, and 3:1). Naloxone (1 and 5 mg/kg, i.p.), L‐NAME (3 mg/kg, i.p.), or glibenclamide (10 mg/kg, i.p.) were administered before the combination of drugs to evaluate the antinociceptive mechanisms of action. The results showed that the combination 1:1 and paracetamol3‐tapenadol1 ratios produced additive effects, whereas the paracetamol1‐tapentadol3 proportion showed an antinociceptive synergistic interaction. Moreover, naloxone and glibenclamide reversed the antinociceptive activity of the paracetamol‐tapentadol mixture. Our results indicate that the paracetamol‐tapentadol combination produces an antinociceptive synergistic interaction with the possible participation of ATP‐sensitive K+ channels and μ‐opioid receptors in the second phase of the formalin‐induced pain model in mice.
Sulfate metabolites improve retrospectivity after oral testosterone administration
Authors: Esquivel Argitxu , Alechaga Élida , Monfort Nuria , Ventura Rosa
Published: October 2018

The detection of testosterone (T) misuse is performed using the steroid profile that includes concentrations of T and related metabolites excreted free and glucuronoconjugated, and the ratios between them. In this work, the usefulness of 14 endogenous steroid sulfates to improve the detection capabilities of oral T administration has been evaluated. Quantitation of the sulfate metabolites was performed using solid‐phase extraction and analysis by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Urine samples were collected up to 144 hours after a single oral dose of T undecanoate (120 mg) to five Caucasian male volunteers. Detection times (DTs) of each marker were estimated using reference limits based on a population study and also monitoring the individual threshold for each volunteer. High inter‐individual variability was observed for sulfate metabolites and, therefore, better DTs were obtained using individual thresholds. Using individual threshold limits, epiandrosterone sulfate (epiA‐S) improved the DT with respect to testosterone/epitestosterone (T/E) ratio in all volunteers. Androsterone, etiocholanolone, and two androstanediol sulfates also improved DTs for some volunteers. Principal component analysis was used to characterize the sample cohort, obtaining 13 ratios useful for discrimination. These ratios as well as the ratio epiA‐S/dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate were further examined. The most promising results were obtained using ratios between sulfates of epiA, androsterone, or androstanediol 1 and E, and also sulfates of epiA or androstanediol 1, and dehydroandrosterone. These selected ratios prolonged the DT of oral T administration up to 144 hours, which corresponded to a significantly higher retrospectivity compared to those obtained using concentrations or the conventional T/E ratio.
The importance of competition for light depends on productivity and disturbance
Authors: Hautier Yann , Vojtech Eva , Hector Andy
Published: October 2018

Eutrophication is a major cause of biodiversity loss. In grasslands, this appears to occur due to asymmetric competition for light following the increases in aboveground biomass production. Here, we report the results of an experiment with five grass species that tests how well‐competitive outcomes can be predicted under a factorial combination of fertilized and disturbed (frequent cutting) conditions. Under fertile conditions, our results confirm earlier success in predicting short‐term competitive outcomes based on light interception in monocultures. This effect was maintained but weakened under less fertile conditions with competition becoming more symmetric. However, under disturbed conditions, competitive outcomes could not be predicted from differences in light interception in monocultures regardless of fertility. Our results support the idea that competition in grasslands shifts from symmetric to asymmetric as fertility increases but that disturbance destroys this relationship, presumably by preventing the development of differences in canopy structure and reducing competition for light.
SSR‐seq: Genotyping of microsatellites using next‐generation sequencing reveals higher level of polymorphism as compared to traditional fragment size scoring
Authors: Šarhanová Petra , Pfanzelt Simon , Brandt Ronny , Himmelbach Axel , Blattner Frank R.
Published: October 2018

Microsatellites (or simple sequence repeats, SSR) are widely used markers in population genetics. Traditionally, genotyping was and still is carried out through recording fragment length. Now, next‐generation sequencing (NGS) makes it easy to obtain also sequence information for the loci of interest. This avoids misinterpretations that otherwise could arise due to size homoplasy. Here, an NGS strategy is described that allows to genotype hundreds of individuals at many custom‐designed SSR loci simultaneously, combining multiplex PCR, barcoding, and Illumina sequencing. We created three different datasets for which alleles were coded according to (a) length of the repetitive region, (b) total fragment length, and (c) sequence identity, in order to evaluate the eventual benefits from having sequence data at hand, not only fragment length data. For each dataset, genetic diversity statistics, as well asFSTandRSTvalues, were calculated. The number of alleles per locus, as well as observed and expected heterozygosity, was highest in the sequence identity dataset, because of single‐nucleotide polymorphisms and insertions/deletions in the flanking regions of the SSR motif. Size homoplasy was found to be very common, amounting to 44.7%–63.5% (mean over all loci) in the three study species. Thus, the information obtained by next‐generation sequencing offers a better resolution than the traditional way of SSR genotyping and allows for more accurate evolutionary interpretations.
Preliminary insights into the genetics of bank vole tolerance to Puumala hantavirus in Sweden
Authors: Rohfritsch Audrey , Galan Maxime , Gautier Mathieu , Gharbi Karim , Olsson Gert , Gschloessl Bernhard , Zeimes Caroline , VanWambeke Sophie , Vitalis Renaud , Charbonnel Nathalie
Published: October 2018

Natural reservoirs of zoonotic pathogens generally seem to be capable of tolerating infections. Tolerance and its underlying mechanisms remain difficult to assess using experiments or wildlife surveys. High‐throughput sequencing technologies give the opportunity to investigate the genetic bases of tolerance, and the variability of its mechanisms in natural populations. In particular, population genomics may provide preliminary insights into the genes shaping tolerance and potentially influencing epidemiological dynamics. Here, we addressed these questions in the bank vole Myodes glareolus, the specific asymptomatic reservoir host of Puumala hantavirus (PUUV), which causes nephropathia epidemica (NE) in humans. Despite the continuous spatial distribution of M. glareolus in Sweden, NE is endemic to the northern part of the country. Northern bank vole populations in Sweden might exhibit tolerance strategies as a result of coadaptation with PUUV. This may favor the circulation and maintenance of PUUV and lead to high spatial risk of NE in northern Sweden. We performed a genome‐scan study to detect signatures of selection potentially correlated with spatial variations in tolerance to PUUV. We analyzed six bank vole populations from Sweden, sampled from northern NE‐endemic to southern NE‐free areas. We combined candidate gene analyses (Tlr4, Tlr7, and Mx2 genes) and high‐throughput sequencing of restriction site‐associated DNA (RAD) markers. Outlier loci showed high levels of genetic differentiation and significant associations with environmental data including variations in the regional number of NE human cases. Among the 108 outliers that matched to mouse protein‐coding genes, 14 corresponded to immune‐related genes. The main biological pathways found to be significantly enriched corresponded to immune processes and responses to hantavirus, including the regulation of cytokine productions, TLR cascades, and IL‐7, VEGF, and JAK–STAT signaling. In the future, genome‐scan replicates and functional experimentations should enable to assess the role of these biological pathways in M. glareolus tolerance to PUUV.
Synthesis and Characterization of Soluble Directly 2,2′‐Linked Tetracene Dimer
Authors: Honda Tasuku , Nagahara Masaya , Taka Naohiro , Nishida Jun‐ichi , Kawase Takeshi , Ono Katsuhiko , Kobayashi Takashi , Naito Hiroyoshi , Kitamura Chitoshi
Published: October 2018

A soluble directly 2,2′‐linked tetracene dimer was synthesized. Dimerization of 8‐bromo‐2,3‐dihexyl‐5,12‐tetracenequinone afforded the corresponding bitetracenequinone, which was converted into a tetracene dimer by sequential addition of 1‐hexynyllithium and SnCl2/HCl. The synthesized tetracene dimer with four hexyl and four 1‐hexynyl groups was highly soluble in CH2Cl2 and THF, and the solutions were unstable under air and room light. The compound was studied by X‐ray single crystal analysis, UV/Vis, and fluorescence spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. In the crystal, two tetracene rings take a coplanar conformation although DFT calculations demonstrated that such a molecular structure is energetically unfavorable. The tetracene dimer had red‐shifted absorption maxima and large molar extinction coefficients compared with the corresponding tetracene monomer. The tetracene dimer also showed amphoteric redox properties and p‐type semiconducting behavior.
Modeling population dynamics in a microbial consortium under control of a synthetic pheromone‐mediated communication system
Authors: Hoffmann Andreas , Haas Christiane , Hennig Stefan , Ostermann Kai , Bley Thomas , Löser Christian , Walther Thomas
Published: October 2018

Microbial consortia can be used to catalyze complex biotransformations. Tools to control the behavior of these consortia in a technical environment are currently lacking. In the present study, a synthetic biology approach was used to build a model consortium of two Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains where growth and expression of the fluorescent marker protein EGFP by the receiver strain is controlled by the concentration of α‐factor pheromone, which is produced by the emitter strain. We have developed a quantitative experimental and theoretical framework to describe population dynamics in the model consortium. We measured biomass growth and metabolite production in controlled bioreactor experiments, and used flow cytometry to monitor changes of the subpopulations and protein expression under different cultivation conditions. This dataset was used to parameterize a segregated mathematical model, which took into account fundamental growth processes, pheromone‐induced growth arrest and EGFP production, as well as pheromone desensitization after extended exposure. The model was able to predict the growth dynamics of single‐strain cultures and the consortium quantitatively and provides a basis for using this approach in actual biotransformations.
A Generalized Correlation for Predicting Ethane, Propane, and Isobutane Hydrates Equilibrium Data in Pure Water and Aqueous Salt Solutions
Authors: Aregbe Azeez G.
Published: October 2018

Hydrate formation can cause serious problems in hydrocarbon exploration, production, and transportation, especially in deepwater environments. Hydrate‐related problems affects the integrity of the deepwater platforms, leads to equipment blockages, and also increases operational costs. In order to solve these problems, salts are used as thermodynamic inhibitors and also mixed with the drilling fluids in most drilling processes. A comprehensive understanding of hydrate formation in aqueous salt solutions is vital to overcome these problems. Statistical thermodynamic models are commonly used to predict hydrate formation conditions in different aqueous solutions. However, these models involve rigorous computations and are restricted to certain conditions. They give inaccurate predictions of hydrate equilibrium conditions for high‐temperature, high‐pressure, and high‐salinity systems. Therefore, it is paramount to develop a simple‐to‐use and reliable prediction tool. In this work, an empirical correlation is developed and successfully used to predict the equilibrium conditions of ethane, propane, and isobutane hydrates in pure water and aqueous solutions of sodium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium chloride, and magnesium chloride. Experimental data on hydrate formation conditions for these components are regressed and a generalized correlation is obtained. The predictions in this work show excellent agreement with all the experimental data in the literature.
ATTACHMENT AND BIOBEHAVIORAL CATCH‐UP: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Grube Whitney A. , Liming Kiley W.
Published: October 2018

Attachment Biobehavioral Catch‐up (ABC; Dozier et al., 2006) is a 10‐week, in‐home intervention primarily for early childhood aged children (ages 6 months–2 years). The ABC intervention seeks to teach parents how to provide nurturing care and engage in appropriate interactions with their children. ABC has been identified as a Level 1 evidence‐based practice by the California Evidence‐Based Clearinghouse for Child Welfare. However, to date, there has been no systematic review presenting the overall evidence behind ABC available in a peer‐reviewed journal. The objective of this review is to address this gap by synthesizing prior literature and evidence, specifically evidence from randomized control trials (RCTs), regarding the effectiveness of the ABC intervention and to determine the contexts in which the intervention has been implemented. To complete this review, literature was searched across three bibliographic databases and relevant Web sites. Only RCTs examining child outcomes were included in the review. Using identified search procedures, 10 articles discussing RCTs which tested the efficacy of ABC were identified. Findings indicate that ABC is effective, when implemented with child‐welfare‐involved children, at improving emotion regulation, improving externalizing and internalizing behaviors, increasing normative developmental functioning, and attachment quality. Sample information from the 10 RCTs identified is presented as well as additional study characteristics.
Comparison of prompting procedures to teach internet skills to older adults
Authors: Pachis Jacqueline A. , Zonneveld Kimberley L. M.
Published: October 2018

The Internet and information and communications technologies (ICTs) have been found to produce meaningful social interactions and greater social support among older adults (White et al., ). Despite these benefits, the Internet and ICTs are not widely used among the older‐adult population (Cresci, Yarandi, & Morrell, ). The purpose of the current study was to compare the effectiveness and efficiency of video prompting and text‐based instructions on the acquisition of three tablet‐based tasks: emailing, video calling (FaceTime® application), and searching for a YouTube™ video. Both video prompting and text‐based instructions were effective for all three participants, with text‐based instructions being slightly more efficient for one participant and video prompting being more efficient for two participants, suggesting that both prompting procedures can be used to teach older adults Internet and ICT skills.
Hotair mediates tumorigenesis through recruiting EZH2 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Huang Kai‐bin , Zhang Shi‐pai , Zhu Yong‐jun , Guo Chun‐hua , Yang Min , Liu Jun , Xia Li‐gang , Zhang Jin‐fang
Published: October 2018

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA)  have been demonstrated to extensively participate in a wide spectrum of biological activities ranging from embryogenesis and cancer progression. HOX transcript antisense RNA (Hotair), an lncRNA located in the HOXC locus, has been reported to play an important role in carcinogenesis. As a well‐known oncogene, it potentiates cancer metastasis and tumor progression. And it also serves as a biomarker for poor prognosis and tumor recurrence. In this study, Hotair was found to be upregulated in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells and clinical specimens. Further investigation showed that knockdown of Hotair dramatically suppressed cell proliferation and colony formation, suggesting that Hotair may stimulate tumorigenesis of CRC. The enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a regulator of epigenetic modification, was upregulated in CRC cells and clinical samples. And the silence of EZH2 significantly suppressed cell viability and colony formation. Furthermore, the RNA immunoprecipitation assay revealed that Hotair directly bound EZH2 in CRC cells. In conclusion, Hotair mediated tumorigenesis via recruiting EZH2, which might shed light on the development of a novel therapeutic approach for patients with CRC.
Desorption induced by low energy charge carriers on Si(111)‐7 × 7: First principles molecular dynamics for benzene derivates
Authors: Utecht Manuel , Gaebel Tina , Klamroth Tillmann
Published: October 2018

We use clusters for the modeling of local ion resonances caused by low energy charge carriers in STM‐induced desorption of benzene derivates from Si(111)‐7 × 7. We perform Born–Oppenheimer molecular dynamics for the charged systems assuming vertical transitions to the charged states at zero temperature, to rationalize the low temperature activation energies, which are found in experiment for chlorobenzene. Our calculations suggest very similar low temperature activation energies for toluene and benzene. For the cationic resonance transitions to physisorption are found even at 0 K, while the anion remains chemisorbed during the propagations. Further, we also extend our previous static quantum chemical investigations to toluene and benzene. In addition, an in depth analysis of the ionization potentials and electron affinities, which are used to estimate resonance energies, is given. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrasensitive prostate‐specific antigen level as a predictor of biochemical progression after robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy: Towards risk adapted follow‐up
Authors: Grivas Nikolaos , de Bruin Daan , Barwari Kurdo , van Muilekom Erik , Tillier Corinne , van Leeuwen Pim J. , Wit Esther , Kroese Wouter , van der Poel Henk
Published: October 2018

Background

Ultrasensitive prostate‐specific antigen (USPSA) is useful for stratifying patients according to their USPSA‐based risk. Aim of our study was to determine the usefulness of USPSA as predictor of biochemical recurrence (BCR) after robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).

Methods

This retrospective study included 213 prostate cancer patients who had a postoperative USPSA between 0.01 and 0.2 ng/mL and at least 2 years of follow‐up. We developed predictive models for BCR with PSA ≥0.2 and ≥0.5 ng/mL.

Results

A total of 103 patients (48.3%) had BCR at a median follow‐up of 13.3 months. Higher postoperative USPSA (odds ratio [OR] = 4.73, P < 0.01), bilateral positive surgical margin in both sides (OR = 1.32, P = 0.044), higher average PSA rise (OR = 1.67, P = 0.031), ISUP grade group ≥3 (OR = 1.48, P = 0.003), and shorter interval since RARP (OR = 0.58, P < 0.001) were independent predictors of BCR with PSA ≥0.2 ng/mL. Higher postoperative USPSA (OR = 3.85, P < 0.01), bilateral positive surgical margin (OR = 1.34, P = 0.011), ISUP grade group ≥3 (OR = 1.5, P = 0.002), and shorter interval since RARP (OR = 0.61, P = 0.001) were independent predictors of BCR with PSA ≥0.5 ng/mL. The areas under the curve for the first and second model were 0.865 and 0.834, respectively.

Conclusion

Ultrasensitive PSA after RARP is a useful prognostic indicator of BCR which could guide postoperative risk stratification and layout follow‐up scheduling.
Epstein–Barr virus and thyroid cancer: The role of viral expressed proteins
Authors: Moghoofei Mohsen , Mostafaei Shayan , Nesaei Abolfazl , Etemadi Ashkan , Sadri Nahand Javid , Mirzaei Hamed , Rashidi Bahman , Babaei Farhad , Khodabandehlou Niloofar
Published: October 2018

Background: Thyroid cancer is a common endocrine malignancy whose incidence has increased in recent years. Several internal and external risk factors are involved in the development of this cancer, such as infectious agents. Evidence supporting the role of viral infection as an etiology for the invasiveness of thyroid cancer is increasing. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and the association between viral gene products and thyroid tumor development.

Methods: Fifty‐seven thyroid cancer specimens were collected from the same number of patients as well as 18 samples from healthy controls. The presence of the EBV genome and the genotyping was examined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Also, an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and real‐time PCR were used to measure the expression levels of viral and cellular genes.

Results: The EBV DNA was detected in 71.9% of the samples, and it was also found that the presence of the EBV was associated with increasing development of thyroid tumor.

Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that EBV infection may play a role in the development of thyroid tumor.
Downregulation of microRNA‐143‐5p is required for the promotion of odontoblasts differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells through the activation of the mitogen‐activated protein kinases 14‐dependent p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinases signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Bao‐Liang , Wang Zhi , Nan Xi , Zhang Qing‐Cai , Liu Wei
Published: October 2018

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play critical roles in various biological processes including cell differentiation. Some researchers suggested that the p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathway had an effect on regulating the odontoblastic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). This study focuses on the effects of miR‐143‐5p on hDPSCs by regulating the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. The targeting relationship of MAPK14 and miR‐143‐5p targets were verified by TargetScan and dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay. Through overexpression of miR‐143‐5p or silencing of miR‐143‐5p, expressions of miR‐143‐5p, MAPK14, Ras, MAPK kinase (MKK) 3/6, dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and osteocalcin (OCN) were detected by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Protein expressions of MAPK14, Ras, and MKK3/6 were determined by western blot analysis. ALP and alizarin red S staining were used to detect mineralization. Initially, MAPK14 was found to be negatively regulated by miR‐143‐5p. Meanwhile, the upregulated miR‐143‐5p decreased the p38 MAPK signaling pathway related genes (MAPK14, Ras, and MKK3/6) and odontoblastic differentiation markers (ALP, DSPP, and OCN) expression. On the contrary, the downregulated miR‐143‐5p increased the p38 MAPK signaling pathway related genes (MAPK14, Ras, and MKK3/6) and odontoblastic differentiation markers (ALP, DSPP, and OCN) expression. Furthermore, ALP activity and mineralized nodules increased after downregulation of miR‐143‐5p, and after its upregulation, ALP activity and mineralized nodules decreased. Our data suggest that poor expression of miR‐143‐5p promotes hDPSCs odontoblastic differentiation through the activation of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway by upregulating MAPK14.
Melanoma: Where we are and where we go
Authors: Mohammadpour Ali , Derakhshan Maryam , Darabi Hassan , Hedayat Pegah , Momeni Mohammad
Published: October 2018

Melanoma is known as an aggressive tumor which shows an increasing incidence and poor prognosis in the metastatic phase. Hence, it seems that diagnosis and effective management (including early diagnosis, choosing of the effective therapeutic platform, caring, and training of patients for early detection) are major aspects of melanoma therapy. Early detection of melanoma is a key point for melanoma therapy. There are various diagnosis options such as assessing of biopsy, imaging techniques, and biomarkers (i.e., several proteins, polymorphism, and liquid biopsy). Among the various biomarkers, assessing circulating tumor cells, cell‐free DNAs, cell‐free RNAs, and microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as powerful diagnosis tools for melanoma patients. Deregulations of these molecules are associated with melanoma pathogenesis. After detection of melanoma, choosing of effective therapeutic regimen is a key step for recovery of melanoma patients. Several studies indicated that various therapeutic approaches including surgery, immunotherapy, systematic therapy, radiation therapy and antibodies therapy could be used as potential therapeutic candidates for melanoma therapy. Caring for melanoma patients is one of the important components of melanoma therapy. Caring and training for melanoma patients could contribute to better monitoring of patients in response to various therapeutic options. Here, we summarized various diagnosis approaches such as assessing biopsy, imaging techniques, and utilization of various biomarkers (i.e., proteins, CTCs, cfDNAs, and miRNAs) as a diagnostic biomarker for detection and monitoring patients with melanoma. Moreover, we highlighted various therapeutic options and caring aspects in patients with melanoma.
Osteochondral tissue cultures: Between limits and sparks, the next step for advanced in vitro models
Authors: Maglio Melania , Tschon Matilde , Sicuro Laura , Lolli Roberta , Fini Milena
Published: October 2018

The increasing demand for reliable preclinical models and to reduce, refine and, if possible, replace animal studies have brought forth the development of complex tissue cultures in different research areas, including the musculoskeletal field. In this paper, we review the literature within last 10 years on the state of progress for in vitro models of osteochondral tissue cultures, taking into account the clinical relevance of the management and treatment of osteochondral lesions. According to the selected research criteria, 35 works, 27 of which with animal tissues and 8 with human tissues, resulted to be relevant for the purposes of this review. Data analyzed revealed a great heterogeneity among the proposed tissue culture models. The anatomical harvesting sites resulted to be mainly the knee stifle joint, both for animal (prevalently bovines) and human tissues derived from joint replacement surgery, and significant heterogeneity among culture conditions and media were found. To date, very few papers have focused on the set up of a reproducible in vitro model, applicable to a variety of studies, thus suggesting a relevant gap to fill in the development of advanced three‐dimensional osteochondral culture models.
Dysregulation of microRNA‐657 influences inflammatory response via targeting interleukin‐37 in gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Wang Pingping , Wang Haidong , Li Cuihong , Zhang Xiaozhen , Xiu Xia , Teng Ping , Wang Zengfang
Published: October 2018

A number of studies have implicated that microRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in the development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, the role of miR‐657 in GDM remains vague up to date. We aim to investigate the modifying effect of miR‐657 on GDM, which will provide new insight into the pathogenesis of GDM and may help to identify new diagnostic or therapeutic targets for GDM. Increased expression of miR‐657 but decreased expression of interleukin‐37 (IL‐37) was observed in patients with GDM. Besides, negative association between miR‐657 and IL‐37 was demonstrated in this study. miR‐657 could targetedly regulate IL‐37 and enhance the proliferation of mononuclear macrophages. Moreover, miR‐657 promoted the generation of inflammatory cytokines (IL‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐α [TNF‐α]) and activation of nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) in lipopolysaccharide‐induced mononuclear macrophages, while its effect was significantly inhibited when exogenous recombinant IL‐37 was administrated into cells. Accordingly, dysregulation of miR‐657 contributes to the pathogenesis of GDM via IL‐37/NF‐κB signaling axis.
Dental pulp stem cells senescence and regenerative potential relationship
Authors: Iezzi Iolanda , Cerqueni Giorgia , Licini Caterina , Lucarini Guendalina , Mattioli Belmonte Monica
Published: October 2018

Uncomplicated treatments for pulpitis and periodontitis continues to be challenging and regenerative approaches could meet this contingency. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) represent a good candidate for oral recovering therapies. Here, we investigated changes in morphology, proliferation, and in vitro differentiation toward mesenchymal and neuronal phenotypes of human DPSCs harvested from differently aged donors. Aging is a physiologic phenomenon occurring with time that hamper body’s capability to maintain homeostasis also affecting the functional reserve. Cytofluorimetric, immunohistochemical, quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), and western blot analyses were performed to gain insight for successful regenerative strategies in elderly. We observed a decline in DPSCs proliferation and differentiation potential with age. Interestingly, these cells behaved differently under osteogenic or odontogenic stimuli, showing different age‐related mineralization capabilities. Similarly, neurogenic differentiation decreased with age. In conclusion, our observations represent a valid tool for the development of tailored regenerative strategies in an aging society.
Pre‐cold acclimation improves the immune function of trachea and resistance to cold stress in broilers
Authors: Su Yingying , Wei Haidong , Bi Yanju , Wang Yanan , Zhao Peng , Zhang Runxiang , Li Xiang , Li Jianhong , Bao Jun
Published: October 2018

Acclimation can alleviate the damage caused by adverse environmental factors. To investigate the effects of cold stimulation on immunity in tracheal of broilers, 360 one‐day‐old chicks were raised at normal temperatures during 1–7 days. From 8 day, G1 (control) continued to be raised at normal temperatures, whereas G2 and G3 (treatment groups) were cold‐stimulated at 3°C and 12°C below the temperature of G1, respectively. At 42 day, all the groups were subjected to a 24‐hr acute cold stress, designated as S1, S2, and S3. Tracheal tissues were collected to detect gene levels of immunoglobulins, antimicrobial peptides, Hsps, and cytokines, and oxidative stress‐related indicators at 14 day, 42 day, and 43 day, and protein levels of Hsps and proinflammatory cytokines as well as morphology changes at 42 day and 43 day. The results showed that, compared with 42G1, tracheal structure of 42G2 was basically intact, and gene levels of immunoglobulins and antimicrobial peptides increased (p < 0.05), whereas tracheal structure of 42G3 was destroyed, with decreased levels of immunoglobulins (
p < 0.05), and increased levels of Hsps and proinflammatory cytokines (
p < 0.05). At 43 day, tracheal damage was visible and gene levels of immunoglobulins and antimicrobial peptides decreased in S1 (
p < 0.05). Tracheal structure was relatively intact and gene levels of antimicrobial peptides increased in S2 (
p < 0.05). Compared with S1 and S3, immune‐related gene levels in S2 were higher, and Hsps and proinflammatory cytokines levels were lower. The results demonstrate that cold stimulation of lower 3°C from 8 to 42 day led to cold acclimation, which improved immunity of tracheal mucosa and resistance to cold stress in broilers.
Albumin induces CD44 expression in glomerular parietal epithelial cells by activating extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 pathway
Authors: Zhao Xueying , Chen Xiaoming , Chima Ashmeer , Zhang Yuanyuan , George Jasmine , Cobbs Alyssa , Emmett Nerimiah
Published: October 2018

De novo expression of CD44 in glomerular parietal epithelial cells (PECs) leads to a prosclerotic and migratory PEC phenotype in glomerulosclerosis. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying CD44 expression by activated PECs remain largely unknown. This study was performed to examine the mediators responsible for CD44 induction in glomerular PECs in association with diabetes. CD44 expression and localization were evaluated in the glomeruli of Zucker diabetic rat kidneys and primary cultured PECs upon albumin stimulation. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction confirmed an albuminuria‐associated upregulation of the CD44 gene in the glomeruli of diabetic rats. Immunostaining analysis of diabetic kidneys further revealed an increase in CD44 in hypertrophic PECs, which often contain albumin‐positive vesicles. Losartan treatment significantly attenuated albuminuria and lowered CD44 protein levels in the diabetic kidneys. In primary cultured rat PECs, rat serum albumin (0.25–1 mg/ml) caused a dose‐dependent upregulation of CD44, claudin‐1, and megalin protein expression, which was accompanied by an activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase1/2 (ERK1/2) signaling. Albumin‐induced CD44 and claudin‐1 expression were greatly suppressed in the presence of the ERK1/2 inhibitor, U0126. In addition, knockdown of megalin by small interfering RNA interference in PECs resulted in a significant reduction of albumin‐induced CD44 and claudin‐1 proteins. Taken together, our results demonstrate that albumin induces CD44 expression by PECs via the activation of the ERK signaling pathway, which is partially mediated by endocytic receptor megalin.
Mesenchymal stem cells overexpressing heme oxygenase‐1 ameliorate lipopolysaccharide‐induced acute lung injury in rats
Authors: Chen Xuxin , Wu Shanshan , Tang Lu , Ma Lei , Wang Fan , Feng Huasong , Meng Jiguang , Han Zhihai
Published: October 2018

Acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are common and potentially lethal clinical syndromes characterized by acute respiratory failure resulting from excessive pulmonary inflammation, noncardiogenic pulmonary edema, and alveolar–capillary barrier disruption. At present, there is no effective and specific therapy for ALI/ARDS. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have well‐known therapeutic potential in patients with ALI/ARDS. Heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), a cytoprotective enzyme, possesses antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects. Thus, a combination of MSC transplantation with HO‐1 delivery may have an additional protective effect against ALI/ARDS. This study investigated the effect of HO‐1‐modified bone‐marrow–derived MSCs (MSCs‐HO‐1) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced ALI and its underlying mechanisms. We established MSCs‐HO‐1 through lentiviral transduction. The ALI rat model was established by successive LPS inhalations following injection with MSCs‐HO‐1. The survival rate, histological changes in the lungs, total protein concentration and neutrophil counts in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, lung wet/dry weight ratio, cytokine levels in serum and lungs, nuclear transcription factor‐κB activity, and protein expression of Toll‐like receptor 4 signaling adaptors were examined. Furthermore, the cell viability, apoptosis, and paracrine activity of MSCs‐HO‐1 were examined under inflammatory stimuli in vitro. MSCs‐HO‐1 injection improved these parameters compared with primary unmodified MSCs. Moreover, MSCs‐HO‐1 had superior prosurvival and antiapoptotic properties and enhanced paracrine functions in vitro. Therefore, MSCs‐HO‐1 exert an enhanced protective effect to alleviate LPS‐induced ALI in rats, and the mechanisms may be partially associated with superior prosurvival, antiapoptosis, and enhanced paracrine functions of MSCs‐HO‐1. These findings provide a novel insight into MSC‐based therapeutic strategies for treating ALI/ARDS.