bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renalase rs10887800 polymorphism is associated with severe pre‐eclampsia in southeast Iranian women
Authors: Teimoori Batool , Moradi‐Shahrebabak Maryam , Rezaei Mahnaz , Mohammadpour‐Gharehbagh Abbas , Salimi Saeedeh
Published: October 2018

Evidence has shown that pre‐eclampsia (PE) is associated with an increased level of catecholamines. Renalase is a catecholamine‐metabolizing enzyme, which contributes to the occurrence of hypertension. In the current study, we aimed to assess the relation between two renalase gene (
RNLS) polymorphisms, including rs2576178 at the 5′‐flanking region and rs10887800 at intron 6, near the exon/intron border and PE susceptibility. In this case‐control study, 179 women with PE and 202 normotensive pregnant women were genotyped for
RNLS rs2576178 and rs10887800 polymorphisms by the polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism method. There was no association between
RNLS rs10887800 and rs2576178 polymorphisms and PE, neither in the dominant nor in the recessive model. Although there was no association between
RNLS rs10887800 polymorphism and mild PE, this polymorphism was associated with 2.2‐fold higher risk of severe PE in the recessive model (odds ratio [OR], 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2‐4.4;
P = 0.01) but not in the dominant model. The
RNLS rs2576178 and rs10887800 polymorphisms were not associated with PE severity. The
RNLS rs10887800 and rs2576178 GG/GG combined genotypes were associated with 8.4‐ and 16.7‐fold higher risk of PE and severe PE, respectively (OR, 8.4; 95% CI, 1‐71.1;
P = 0.048 and OR, 16.7; 95% CI, 1.6‐167;
P = 0.018). Also, the G‐G haplotype was associated with 1.7‐fold risk of PE and mild PE (OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1‐2.4;
P = 0.009 and OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1‐2.5;
P = 0.02). The
RNLS rs10887800 polymorphism was associated with severe PE. The
RNLS rs10887800 and rs2576178 GG/GG combined genotypes and G‐G haplotype were associated with higher risk of PE.
SIRT1‐ZEB1‐positive feedback promotes epithelial‐mesenchymal transition process and metastasis of osteosarcoma
Authors: Yu Xiao‐Jun , Guo Xin‐Zhen , Li Chao , Chong Yang , Song Tie‐Nan , Pang Jian‐Feng , Shao Ming
Published: October 2018

Osteosarcoma is the most common malignant bone cancer that mainly affects children and young adults. Recently, the NAD+‐dependent deacetylase, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), has been reported to play a key role in the development of malignant tumors. The study aimed to investigate the role of SIRT1 in osteosarcoma and explore its underlying oncogenic mechanisms. The prognostic value of SIRT1 in osteosarcoma was assessed through detection of SIRT1 expression based on osteosarcoma biopsy tissue. Then, to further investigate the effect of SIRT1 in osteosarcoma, osteosarcoma cells were treated with small interfering RNA SIRT1 and overexpressed SIRT1 to detect the cell migration, invasion, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). The levels of SIRT1 expression were significantly higher in osteosarcoma tissues than those in adjacent normal tissues, and the SIRT1 protein level may be coupled with metastatic and poor prognosis risk in patients with osteosarcoma. Moreover, SIRT1 silencing inhibited the migration as well as invasion ability of osteosarcoma cells in vitro, and SIRT1 upregulation reversed those effects. Finally, we found that SIRT1‐ZEB1‐positive feedback enhanced the EMT process and metastasis of osteosarcoma. Altogether, the results of the current study revealed that high levels of SIRT1 might be a biomarker for a high metastatic rate in patients with osteosarcoma, which suggested that inhibition of SIRT1 might be promising for the therapeutics of osteosarcoma.
LncRNA MNX1‐AS1 promotes the progression of cervical cancer through activating MAPK pathway
Authors: Liu Xiang , Yang Qian , Yan Jinyu , Zhang Xiahui , Zheng Meiyun
Published: October 2018

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been discovered as significant regulators in a wide range of human cancers. Among them, lncRNA MNX1‐AS1 has been proved to be an oncogene in ovarian cancer and glioblastoma. However, the regulatory mechanism of MNX1‐AS1 in cervical cancer remains to be understood. Therefore, this study planned to explore the role of MNX1‐AS1 in cervical cancer. In the beginning, we found that the expression of MNX1‐AS1 was obviously upregulated in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines. Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis revealed that patients with higher MNX1‐AS1 expression level suffered from shorter overall survival time than those with lower MNX1‐AS1 level. Moreover, by loss‐of‐function and gain‐of‐function assay, the effect of MNX1‐AS1 on cell proliferation and apoptosis was examined on cellular level. Results showed that the proliferation of Hela cells was significantly inhibited and apoptosis enhanced by the transfection of shMNX1‐AS1, while overexpressing MNX1‐AS1 in E6E7 cells presented the contrary results. As for mechanism investigation, it was demonstrated that overexpression of MNX1‐AS1 significantly improved the expression of p‐ERK1/2 and p‐JNK. And the effects of MNX1‐AS1 on cell proliferation and apoptosis would be diminished after inactivating the phosphorylation of either ERK or JNK. Taken together, it was identified that MNX1‐AS1 promoted proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of cervical cancer cells through MAPK pathway.
Hypoxia‐induced regulation of mTOR signaling by miR‐7 targeting REDD1
Authors: Seong Minhyeong , Lee Jihui , Kang Hara
Published: October 2018

Oxygen is an important factor mediating cell growth and survival under physiological and pathological conditions. Therefore, cells have well‐regulated response mechanisms in the face of changes in oxygen levels in their environment. A subset of microRNAs (miRNAs) termed the hypoxamir has been suggested to be a critical mediator of the cellular response to hypoxia. Regulated in development and DNA damage response 1 (REDD1) is a negative regulator of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling in the response to cellular stress, and is elevated in many cell types under hypoxia, with consequent inhibition of mTOR signaling. However, the underlying posttranscriptional regulatory mechanism by miRNAs that contribute to this hypoxia‐induced reduction in REDD1 expression remain unknown. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to identify the miRNAs participating in the hypoxic cellular response by scanning the 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR) of REDD1 for potential miRNA‐binding sites using a computer algorithm, TargetScan. miR‐7 emerged as a novel hypoxamir that regulates REDD1 expression and is involved in mTOR signaling. miR‐7 could repress REDD1 expression posttranscriptionally by directly binding with the 3′‐UTR. Upon hypoxia, miR‐7 expression was downregulated in HeLa cells to consequently derepress REDD1, resulting in inhibition of mTOR signaling. Moreover, overexpression of miR‐7 was sufficient to reverse the hypoxia‐induced inhibition of mTOR signaling. Therefore, our findings suggest miR‐7 as a key regulator of hypoxia‐mediated mTOR signaling through modulation of REDD1 expression. These findings contribute new insight into the miRNA‐mediated molecular mechanism of the hypoxic response through mTOR signaling, highlighting potential targets for tumor suppression.
MicroRNA‐21 increases the expression level of occludin through regulating ROCK1 in prevention of intestinal barrier dysfunction
Authors: Liu Zhihua , Li Chao , Chen Shihua , Lin Hongcheng , Zhao Huan , Liu Min , Weng Jinsheng , Liu Ting , Li Xiaomei , Lei Chao , Li Chen , Jiang Yanqiong , Moyer Mary Pat , Yin Chunxia , Zhou Xinke
Published: October 2018

Objective

The aim of this study is to investigate the role of molecular mechanism of microRNA (miR)‐21 on tight junction (TJ)‐proteins and its protective effects on the intestinal barrier.

Methods

TJ proteins and target genes expression were analyzed in miR‐21 inhibition and overexpression NCM460 cell lines. To further verify the role of miR‐21, the mmu‐miR‐21 intestinal epithelial conditional knockout (IKO) mice model was established. MiR‐21 expression was detected in clinical specimens of acute stercoral obstruction patients.

Results

Rho‐associated protein kinase 1 (ROCK1) were identified as target genes of miR‐21. There is a negative correlation between miR‐21 expression level and TJ proteins levels. TJ protein and ROCK1 were significantly decreased in miR‐21 IKO mice, which presented intestinal inflammation response and intestinal barrier dysfunction (both P < 0.05). Determination of clinical samples showed consistent results with NCM460 cell line and miR‐21 IKO mice.

Conclusions

MiR‐21 could be a protective factor of intestinal barrier dysfunction, which promoting the expression of TJ protein by targeting ROCK1 in vivo and in vitro.
Roles for osteocalcin in proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonial cells cocultured with somatic cells
Authors: Solhjoo Somayeh , Akbari Mohammad , Toolee Heidar , Mortezaee Keywan , Mohammadipour Mahshid , Nematollahi‐Mahani Seyed Noureddin , Shahrokhi Amene , Sayadi Mahtab , Rastegar Tayebeh
Published: October 2018

Spermatogonial cells (SCs) are key cells for spermatogenesis. These cells are affected by paracrine signals originated from nearby somatic cells, among them Leydig cells have receptors for osteocalcin, a hormone known for exerting positive roles in the promotion of spermatogenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate roles for osteocalcin on SCs proliferative and differentiation features after coculture with Leydig cells. SCs and Leydig cells were isolated from neonate NMRI offspring mice and adult NMRI mice, respectively. SCs population were then enriched in a differential attachment technique and assessed for morphological features and identity. Then, SCs were cocultured with Leydig cells and incubated with osteocalcin for 4 weeks. Evaluation of proliferation and differentiation‐related factors were surveyed using immunocytochemistry (ICC), Western blot, and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Finally, the rate of testosterone release to the culture media was measured at the end of 4th week. Morphological and flow cytometry results showed that the SCs were the population of cells able to form colonies and to express ID4, α6‐, and β1‐integrin markers, respectively. Leydig cells were also able to express Gprc6α as a specific marker for the cells. Incubation of SCs/Leydig coculture with osteocalcin has resulted in an increase in the rate of expressions for differentiation‐related markers. Levels of testosterone in the culture media of SCs/Leydig was positively influenced by osteocalcin. It could be concluded that osteocalcin acts as a positive inducer of SCs in coculture with Leydig cells probably through stimulation of testosterone release from Leydig cells and associated signaling.
Long noncoding RNA HOTAIRM1 inhibits cell progression by regulating miR‐17‐5p/PTEN axis in gastric cancer
Authors: Lu Ruiqi , Zhao Gang , Yang Yulong , Jiang Zhaoyan , Cai Jingli , Zhang Zhijue , Hu Hai
Published: October 2018

Objectives

This study was conducted to identify the significantly altered long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), messenger RNA (mRNA) and pathways in gastric cancer (GC).

Methods

We used microarray analysis to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs, whereas the obviously changed pathways were found by gene set enrichment analysis. The coexpression network of lncRNA and mRNA was constructed by Cytoscape, and their target relationships with miRNAs were predicted by miRcode and TargetScan. qRT‐PCR and Western blot were performed to determine the expression levels of mRNAs and proteins in tissues and cell lines. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay was applied to achieve the determination of the specific target relationships. Cell viability, migration, and apoptosis were detected by MTT assay, wound healing assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Through the xenograft assay, the gastric tumor was implanted into nude mice to investigate the influence of HOTAIRM1 in vivo.

Results

HOTAIRM1 and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) were both downregulated in GC, whereas miR‐17‐5p was upregulated. Moreover, the PI3K/AKT pathway was found activated in GC. HOTAIRM1 targeted miR‐17‐5p, whereas
PTEN was the downstream target gene of miR‐17‐5p. HOTAIRM1 suppressed proliferation and migration of GC cell line and induced their apoptosis, whereas miR‐17‐5p played the opposite role on GC cell line. HOTAIRM1 also postponed tumor growth in vivo and inhibited the PI3K/AKT pathway in GC.

Conclusions

LncRNA HORAIRM1 suppressed the PI3K/AKT pathway in GC and inhibited the progression of GC by serving as a competing endogenous RNA of miR‐17‐5p, mediating the expression of
PTEN.
MiR‐10a functions as a tumor suppressor in prostate cancer via targeting KDM4A
Authors: Mu Haiqi , Xiang Luxia , Li Shaoxun , Rao Dapang , Wang Shuaibin , Yu Kaiyuan
Published: October 2018

Deregulation of microRNAs contributes to the abnormal cell growth which is frequently observed in cancer. In the current study, we detected the expression and regulatory relationship between miR‐10a and Lysine‐specific demethylase 4A (KDM4A) to reveal their function in prostate cancer (PCa) progression. We found that miR‐10a levels were significantly decreased in PCa cell lines in comparison with the normal epithelial cell line RWPE‐1. Downregulation of miR‐10a levels was also observed in tumor tissues from PCa patients compared with the adjacent normal tissues. Enhanced expression of miR‐10a inhibited cell proliferation and colony forming capability of PCa cells. In addition, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis showed a significant decrease of KDM4A in response to miR‐10a elevation in PCa cells. Using dual luciferase assay, we confirmed that KDM4A was a target gene for miR‐10a. Furthermore, Western blot analysis indicated that miR‐10a overexpression inactivated YAP signaling and suppressed transcription of YAP target genes. Additionally, cell growth arrest and colony forming capacity inhibition induced by miR‐10a overexpression could be reversed by YAP overexpression in PCa cells. More importantly, miR‐10a mimics inhibited PC‐3 tumor growth in nude mice accompanied with a remarkable reduction of KDM4A and YAP expression. In conclusion, our results uncovered a tumor suppressor role of miR‐10a in PCa via negative regulation of KDM4A and its downstream Hippo‐YAP pathway.
Novel putative drugs and key initiating genes for neurodegenerative disease determined using network‐based genetic integrative analysis
Authors: Mortezaei Zahra , Cazier Jean‐Baptiste , Mehrabi Ali Ashraf , Cheng Chao , Masoudi‐Nejad Ali
Published: October 2018

Understanding the genetic causes of neurodegenerative disease (ND) can be useful for their prevention and treatment. Among the genetic variations responsible for ND, heritable germline variants have been discovered in genome‐wide association studies (GWAS), and nonheritable somatic mutations have been discovered in sequencing projects. Distinguishing the important initiating genes in ND and comparing the importance of heritable and nonheritable genetic variants for treating ND are important challenges. In this study, we analysed GWAS results, somatic mutations and drug targets of ND from large databanks by performing directed network‐based analysis considering a randomised network hypothesis testing procedure. A disease‐associated biological network was created in the context of the functional interactome, and the nonrandom topological characteristics of directed‐edge classes were interpreted. Hierarchical network analysis indicated that drug targets tend to lie upstream of somatic mutations and germline variants. Furthermore, using directed path length information and biological explanations, we provide information on the most important genes in these created node classes and their associated drugs. Finally, we identified nine germline variants overlapping with drug targets for ND, seven somatic mutations close to drug targets from the hierarchical network analysis and six crucial genes in controlling other genes from the network analysis. Based on these findings, some drugs have been proposed for treating ND via drug repurposing. Our results provide new insights into the therapeutic actionability of GWAS results and somatic mutations for ND. The interesting properties of each node class and the existing relationships between them can broaden our knowledge of ND.
Comprehensive analysis of microRNA‐messenger RNA regulatory network in gemcitabine‐resistant bladder cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Su , Chang Yong‐Yan , Gong Yu‐Wen , Gao Yan‐Jun , Guo Qi , Wang Yu‐Han , Zhao You‐Li , Wang Zhi‐Ping
Published: October 2018

Chemotherapy is still a standard treatment of unresectable bladder cancer or distant metastases. The chemotherapy resistance always occurs after a period of treatment indicating poor prognosis. The current study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of chemoresistance in bladder cancer cells. The gene expression profiles of GSE77883, including three untreated T24 cells samples and three gemcitabine‐resistant T24 cells samples, was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus database. The screening of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), gene function analysis, and interaction prediction between microRNAs (miRNAs) and DEGs were performed by R software. The protein‐protein interaction (PPI) and miRNA‐DEGs networks were constructed and visualized by Cytoscape software. Then, the small molecules, with potential synergistic or antagonistic effects to gemcitabine resistance, were identified using the Connectivity Map database. Finally, gemcitabine‐resistant T24 cell line was established and key genes were validated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). In total, 536 upregulated and 513 downregulated genes were screened and mainly enriched in oxidative stress response and signaling pathways related to extracellular matrix–receptor interaction and focal adhesion. PPI network showed interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor, kinesin family member 11, and BUB1 mitotic checkpoint serine/threonine kinase B were key genes. The miRNA‐DEGs regulatory networks included 18 miRNAs and 185 DEGs, including miR‐182‐5p, miR‐590‐3p, miR‐320a and serum‐ and glucocorticoid‐regulated kinase 1 (SGK1). Then, the related key genes and miRNAs were confirmed by qRT‐PCR. Furthermore, 81 small molecules with antagonistic or synergistic effect to GEM were screened. We have investigated the molecular mechanisms driving GEM‐resistance in bladder cancer cells that would contribute to the development of chemotherapy for advanced bladder cancer.
Diffusion tensor imaging of white matter in patients with prediabetes by trace‐based spatial statistics
Authors: Liang Minjie , Cai Xiangyi , Tang Yi , Yang Xiao‐ling , Fang Jin , Li Jie , Zhang ShuiHua , Zhou Quan
Published: October 2018

Background

Prediabetes is an intermediate state in which blood glucose is higher than normal but does not meet the diagnostic criteria for diabetes. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is an MRI method that can sensitively detect microscopic lesions in the white matter of the brain, but most previous DTI studies only focused on patients with diabetes, and little is known about prediabetes.

Purpose

To investigate the changes in the microstructure of brain white matter in prediabetes patients using DTI and trace‐based spatial statistics (TBSS).

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Sixty subjects (30 patients with prediabetes and 30 healthy volunteers) were enrolled.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T/DTI‐MRI sequence with single‐shot echo‐planar imaging sequence (SE‐EPI).

Assessment

DTI data were collected and analyzed using the TBSS method in the FMRIB software library.

Statistical Tests

DTI using a two‐sample t‐test. Pearson correlation analysis was performed on DTI values and neuropsychology scale results (mini‐mental state examination [MMSE], Montreal cognitive assessment [MoCA], self‐rating anxiety scale [SAS], and self‐rating depression scale [SDS])

Results

Compared with the control group, the fractional anisotropy (FA) values in the right part of the corpus callosum body (bCC) (P = 0.035), the right superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF.R) (P = 0.047), and the left superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF.L) in the prediabetic group were reduced (P = 0.040).

Data Conclusion

DTI as a noninvasive technique can assess early changes in the white matter microarchitecture of patients with prediabetes.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:1105–1112.
Improvement of radiographer commenting accuracy of the appendicular skeleton following a short course in plain radiography image interpretation: A pilot study
Authors: Williams Imelda , Baird Marilyn , Pearce Beverley , Schneider Michal
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Radiographers are at times required to provide preliminary information on plain radiography when significant findings are identified. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of two short training modules to improve the accuracy of image interpretation of the appendicular skeleton amongst a group of radiographers.

Methods

Eight radiographers volunteered to participate in the study. All undertook a pre‐test and, following delivery of course materials, an immediate post‐test for two consecutive modules. A retention test was undertaken 6 months later. Sensitivity (Sn), specificity (Sp) and accuracy (Acc) scores were evaluated against the “Gold Standard” radiologists’ reports. Paired‐samples t‐tests were carried out to compare image interpretation scores between the start of module one to the end of module two, and between the end of module 2 and 6 months later. Summary receiver operating characteristics (SROC) scores on each of the participants’ module two post‐test study results were undertaken.

Results

Significant improvements in scores were achieved between the mean (SD) scores of module 1 pre‐test (77.5 (±3.9)) and the module 2 post‐test (83.6 (±3.2) (P =0.022)). Sn, Sp and Acc scores increased from the start of module 1 pre‐test to the end of module 2 post‐test (Sn: 82.28–86.25%; Sp: 75.29–84.66%; Acc: 81.68–85.97%). The retention test revealed a non‐significant reduction in mean scores (80.0 (±5.1)) when compared to post‐test module 2 (83.6 (±3.2) (P =0.184)). SROC revealed an area under the curve of 0.90.

Conclusion

Participants achieved significant improvements in commenting accuracy on plain radiography of the appendicular skeleton after completion of the two modules. However, continuous application and ongoing professional development is essential in order to maintain and develop the skills acquired.
Community structure and fibrolytic activities of anaerobic rumen fungi in dromedary camels
Authors: Rabee Alaa. E. , Forster Robert J. , Elekwachi Chijioke O. , Kewan Kkaled Z. , Sabra Ebrahim A. , Shawket Safinaze M. , Mahrous Hoda A. , Khamiss Omaima A.
Published: October 2018

Anaerobic fungi colonize the rumen and degrade cellulose and hemicellulose, which enable them to be key players in the lignocellulose fermentation. Consequently, an expansion of knowledge about rumen fungi could increase animal productivity, utilization of lignified forages like alfalfa hay, and enhance fibrolytic enzymes production. Here, we used an Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 (ITS1) clone library to investigate the anaerobic rumen fungi in camel and to investigate their ability to produce cellulase and xylanase in vitro. Rumen fluid was collected from camels fed Egyptian clover (n = 14), and wheat straw (n = 7) and fecal samples were collected from camels fed wheat straw and concentrates (n = 5), or natural grazing plants (n = 10). Neocallimastix and Cyllamyces were the most abundant anaerobic fungi in all camel groups. An anaerobic rumen fungi media containing alfalfa hay as a carbon source was inoculated by rumen and fecal samples to assess the ability of anaerobic rumen fungi in camel gut to produce cellulase and xylanase. The anaerobic gut fungi in the camel is diverse and has cellulolytic and xylanolytic activities, fungal culture from rumen samples of camel fed wheat straw (R2) exhibited highest cellulase production. In addition, many of the sequences in the current study have no equivalent cultured representative, indicating a novel diversity within the camel gut.
Assessment of the changes in the Etesians in the EURO‐CORDEX regional model projections
Authors: Ezber Yasemin
Published: October 2018

The northerly Etesian winds blow persistently over the Aegean Sea and eastern Mediterranean (EM) during summer months (June, July and August). This study investigates the July–August (JA) characteristics of the Etesians for a present time period (1981–2000) from both ECMWF ERA‐Interim Reanalysis data set (observations) and 11 EURO‐CORDEX regional climate model (RCM) simulations and assesses future changes using the associated RCP8.5 simulations. An EOF analysis applied to observations near surface meridional wind component (v10) over eastern Mediterranean demonstrates its strength as the leading mode, which explains 43.6% of the total variance, as the principal component (PC) time series of EOF1 has a very high correlation (r = 0.98) with an index showing the intensity of the Etesians. A composite analysis involving the opposite phases in the PC time series reveals that the strong Etesians develop when high pressure takes place towards Balkans and the Black Sea, which increases the meridional pressure gradient over the Aegean Sea. Some of the RCMs reproduce quite realistically pressure system and its associated Etesian winds. However, the intensity of the Etesians in these simulations is usually not as high as that in observations despite their higher horizontal resolutions. In general, the Etesians are projected to be stronger in the future periods as a result of the increasing pressure gradient over the Aegean Sea. This result suggests that the wind energy potential of the region that already attracts investment from the energy sector will increase in the future.
Soil mapping and delineation of management zones in the Western Ghats of coastal India
Authors: Verma Ram Ratan , Manjunath Begur Lakshminarasimha , Singh Narendra Pratap , Kumar Anil , Asolkar Trupti , Chavan Virendra , Srivastava Tapendra Kumar , Singh Pushpa
Published: October 2018

The pace of land degradation has almost doubled across the Western Ghats of India, one of the world's ‘hotspots’ for biodiversity, owing to soil erosion, mining, and rampant urbanization. The arising nutrient depletion leading to land degradation is thus a serious threat to agricultural sustainability in this region. Delineation of spatial soil property maps for nutrient management is an effective strategy for precision agriculture. The present investigation was carried out in North Goa District in Western Ghats, a seldom researched domain in the Indian coastal region. The study involved spatial array analysis of soil properties of 383 georeferenced soil samples and used fuzzy k‐means clustering for delineation of management zones (MZs). Soils were found highly acidic with low available N, P, and medium exchangeable K with a widespread Zn, Cu, and Fe deficiency and sporadic salinity. Soil properties exhibited low to high levels of skewness except for soil pH and Mn. Correlations between soil pH and K, Zn, and Mn, between EC and Fe, between soil organic carbon (SOC) and N, P, K, Cu, and Mn was positive and significant (P = 0.01). Geostatistical analysis revealed varied distribution pattern for soil properties with Gaussian (pH, P, and Cu), spherical (EC), stable (SOC), hole effect (N), K‐Bessel (K and Fe), exponential (Zn), and circular (Mn) as best fit semivariogram models with weak and strong spatial dependence. The spatial variability was mapped, and two MZs were delineated. The developed maps will be crucial in site‐specific nutrient management for agricultural and ecological sustainability in the Western Ghats of India.
Nitrogen addition can improve seedling establishment of N‐sensitive species in degraded saline soils
Authors: Zhang Hongxiang , Xiang Yang , Irving Louis J. , Li Qiang , Zhou Daowei
Published: October 2018

Salinization is an important cause of land degradation globally, and these soils are usually nutrient deficient, which inhibits plant establishment and growth. Medicago sativa and Leymus chinensis are important legume and grass forage species, respectively, in China and are frequently used in pasture establishment. We aimed to test whether nitrogen (N) addition can increase the salt tolerance of these two glycophytes and whether the two species inhibit each other at the germination and seedling emergence stages. M. sativa and L. chinensis seeds were germinated separately or together in 0‐, 100‐, and 200‐mM NaCl solutions with supplemental 0‐, 20‐, or 40‐mM N solutions. N addition increased germination percentage and rate, shoot length, and seedling N concentration under moderate NaCl conditions for L. chinensis but had no effect on Na+ concentrations. Conversely, N addition stimulated Na+ uptake in M. sativa, but it had little effect on germination parameters, with salt suppressing N uptake. The presence of M. sativa stimulated L. chinensis germination percentage in mixed treatments. Our results suggest that proper N application may aid establishment of N‐sensitive species L. chinensis in grass–legume mixtures in degraded saline soils, through both direct influence as a nutritional and/or osmotic resource and indirect effect by increasing salt sequestration by M. sativa. N application had little effect on establishment of the N‐fixing species M. sativa.
Laser threshold and cell damage mechanism for intravascular photoacoustic imaging
Authors: Sowers Timothy , VanderLaan Don , Karpiouk Andrei , Donnelly Eleanor M. , Smith Ethan , Emelianov Stanislav
Published: October 2018

Objectives

Intravascular photoacoustic (IVPA) imaging is being developed to image atherosclerotic plaques, a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. However, the safety of this imaging modality, which requires repeated irradiation with short laser pulses, has not yet been investigated. This study has two objectives. First, determine in vitro the limit of cumulative fluence that can be applied to cells before death at IVPA relevant wavelengths. Second, evaluate if high single pulse fluences are a potential cause of cell death during IVPA imaging.

Materials and Methods

Experiments were conducted using endothelial cells, macrophages, and smooth muscle cells. The cumulative fluence experiments were conducted at 1064 and 1197 nm, using a high pulse repetition frequency laser. Cells were irradiated with a wide range of cumulative fluences and evaluated for cell death. The thresholds for death were compared to the maximum expected clinical cumulative fluence. To evaluate the effect of single pulse fluences, cells were irradiated at 1064, 1210, and 1720 nm. Light was delivered at a range of pulse energies to emulate the fluences that cells would be exposed to during clinical IVPA imaging.

Results

At 1064 nm, all three cell types remained viable at cumulative fluences above the maximum expected clinical cumulative fluence, which is calculated based on common IVPA imaging protocols. At 1197 nm, cells were viable near or just below the maximum expected clinical cumulative fluence, with some cell type to cell type variation. All three cell types remained viable after irradiation with high single pulse fluences at all three wavelengths.

Conclusion

The cumulative fluence experiments indicate that safety considerations are likely to put constraints on the amount of irradiation that can be used in IVPA imaging protocols. However, this study also indicates that it will be possible to use IVPA imaging safely, since cumulative fluences could be reduced by as much as two orders of magnitude below the maximum expected clinical cumulative fluence by varying the imaging protocol, albeit at the expense of image quality. The single pulse fluence experiments indicate that cell death from single pulse fluence is not likely during IVPA imaging. Thus, future studies should focus on heat accumulation as the likely mechanism of tissue damage. Lasers Surg. Med. 51:466–474, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Disparate roles of CXCR3A and CXCR3B in regulating progressive properties of colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Li Hai , Rong Shikuo , Chen Chao , Fan Yayun , Chen Tuo , Wang Yong , Chen Dongmei , Yang Chun , Yang Jiali
Published: October 2018

Human C‐X‐C Motif Chemokine Receptor 3A (CXCR3A) and CXCR3B are two splice variants of CXCR3 that is involved in a variety of progressive processes of cancer cells, including proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumorigenicity. However, the molecular mechanisms of CXCR3 in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain incomplete understood. In the present study, a significantly up‐regulated CXCR3 protein was firstly observed in CRC tissues and cell lines in comparison with the paired non‐tumor tissues and normal intestinal epithelial cells, which was positively associated with CRC TNM stages. In contrast, CXCR3B was down‐regulated in CRC tumor tissues compared with that in the corresponding paired paracancerous tissues, and negatively correlated with the TNM stages of cancer. Of interest, the overexpression of CXCR3A enhanced the progressive capacity of cell proliferation, migration, invasion in CRC LOVO and HCT116 cells in vitro, and the tumorigenicity in nude mice in vivo. Conversely, the overexpression of CXCR3B exhibited an opposite phenotype of CXCR3A, with an ability to inhibit the progressive properties in CRC cell lines in vitro and tumorigenesis in vivo. In addition, immunoblotting analysis further demonstrated that an increased expression of CXCR3A inhibited the expression of CXCR3B in CRC cells and NCM460 normal colon epithelial cells; vice verse, an overexpression of CXCR3B suppressed the expression of CXCR3A in these cells. These data imply that an interaction between the CXCR3A and CXCR3B may play an important regulatory role in tumorigenicity of CRC, which warrants for further investigation.
Impact of colonoscopic screening in Familial Colorectal Cancer Type X
Authors: Hatfield Elizabeth , Green Jane S. , Woods Michael O. , Warden Geoff , Parfrey Patrick S.
Published: October 2018

Background

Hereditary Non‐Polyposis Colorectal cancer is caused by Lynch Syndrome (LS; an autosomal dominant condition) or by Familial Colorectal Cancer Type‐X (FCCTX; a condition of high family risk that fulfills Amsterdam criteria). The lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC) in FCCTX family members is high and CRC occurs later than in LS.

Methods

To determine the impact of primary prevention colonoscopic screening in asymptomatic first‐degree relatives of incident CRC cases in 20 families with FCCTX, we compared cancer incidence and survival in 79 males and 83 females, assumed to be at 50% risk of inheriting a genetic CRC susceptibility factor, who entered screening to an unscreened control group from the families, matched for age at entry into screening and for sex.

Results

In males, median age at entry into screening was 44.8 years, median follow‐up 12.4 years, 12% developed CRC, and 46% died after 30 years of follow‐up. Compared to the unscreened group, relative risk of CRC was 0.27 (95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.10–0.71). In screened females, comparable results were 44.5 years at entry, 11.2 years of follow‐up, 7.1% developed CRC, and 7.2% died after 30 years of follow‐up. The relative risk of CRC compared to the unscreened group was 0.19 (95% CI 0.07–0.48).

Conclusion

Primary prevention screening colonoscopy in asymptomatic family members significantly decreased the risk of CRC in FCCTX.
Mapping connectomes with diffusion MRI: deterministic or probabilistic tractography?
Authors: Sarwar Tabinda , Ramamohanarao Kotagiri , Zalesky Andrew
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Human connectomics necessitates high‐throughput, whole‐brain reconstruction of multiple white matter fiber bundles. Scaling up tractography to meet these high‐throughput demands yields new fiber tracking challenges, such as minimizing spurious connections and controlling for gyral biases. The aim of this study is to determine which of the two broadest classes of tractography algorithms—deterministic or probabilistic—is most suited to mapping connectomes.

Methods

This study develops numerical connectome phantoms that feature realistic network topologies and that are matched to the fiber complexity of in vivo diffusion MRI (dMRI) data. The phantoms are utilized to evaluate the performance of tensor‐based and multi‐fiber implementations of deterministic and probabilistic tractography.

Results

For connectome phantoms that are representative of the fiber complexity of in vivo dMRI, multi‐fiber deterministic tractography yields the most accurate connectome reconstructions (F‐measure = 0.35). Probabilistic algorithms are hampered by an abundance of false‐positive connections, leading to lower specificity (F = 0.19). While omitting connections with the fewest number of streamlines (thresholding) improves the performance of probabilistic algorithms (F = 0.38), multi‐fiber deterministic tractography remains optimal when it benefits from thresholding (F = 0.42).

Conclusions

Multi‐fiber deterministic tractography is well suited to connectome mapping, while connectome thresholding is essential when using probabilistic algorithms.
On the accuracy and precision of PLANET for multiparametric MRI using phase‐cycled bSSFP imaging
Authors: Shcherbakova Yulia , van den Berg Cornelis A. T. , Moonen Chrit T. W. , Bartels Lambertus W.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

In this work we demonstrate how sequence parameter settings influence the accuracy and precision in T1, T2, and off‐resonance maps obtained with the PLANET method for a single‐component signal model. In addition, the performance of the method for the particular case of a two‐component relaxation model for white matter tissue was assessed.

Methods

Numerical simulations were performed to investigate the influence of sequence parameter settings on the accuracy and precision in the estimated parameters for a single‐component model, as well as for a two‐component white matter model. Phantom and in vivo experiments were performed for validation. In addition, the effects of Gibbs ringing were investigated.

Results

By making a proper choice for sequence parameter settings, accurate and precise parameter estimation can be achieved for a single‐component signal model over a wide range of relaxation times at realistic SNR levels. Due to the presence of a second myelin‐related signal component in white matter, an underestimation of approximately 30% in T1 and T2 was observed, predicted by simulations and confirmed by measurements. Gibbs ringing artifacts correction improved the precision and accuracy of the parameter estimates.

Conclusion

For a single‐component signal model there is a broad “sweet spot” of sequence parameter combinations for which a high accuracy and precision in the parameter estimates is achieved over a wide range of relaxation times. For a multicomponent signal model, the single‐component PLANET reconstruction results in systematic errors in the parameter estimates as expected.
Lesion segmentation for MR spectroscopic imaging using the convolution difference method
Authors: Maudsley Andrew A.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Delineation of lesion boundaries from volumetric MRSI metabolite ratio maps using a method that accounts for the spatial response function of the acquisition and variable spectral quality and is robust to signal heterogeneity within the lesion.

Methods

A novel method for lesion segmentation, termed convolution difference, has been developed that is robust to signal heterogeneity within the lesion and to differences in the spatial response function. Procedures are described for processing metabolite ratio maps and to exclude regions of inadequate spectral quality. This method was evaluated using computer simulations, and the results were compared with an iterative thresholding technique that determines an optimal amplitude threshold, and with the use of a fixed amplitude threshold. These methods were evaluated for segmentation of volumetric MRSI studies of gliomas using maps of the choline to N–acetylaspartate ratio, and a qualitative comparison of lesion volumes carried out.

Results

Simulation studies indicated improved performance for the convolution difference method when applied to ratio maps. Variations in tumor volume were observed for the in vivo studies between the convolution difference and the iterative thresholding methods; however, visual analysis indicates that both showed improved accuracy in comparison to using a fixed amplitude threshold.

Conclusion

This study reinforces previous reports indicating that the use of fixed threshold values for segmentation of maps with broad spatial response functions can result in errors in lesion volume definition. A novel segmentation method, termed the convolution difference, has been introduced and demonstrated to be robust for segmentation of volumetric MRSI metabolite data.
Design and psychometric testing of instruments to measure qualified intensive care nurses’ attitudes toward obese intensive care patients
Authors: Robstad Nastasja , Siebler Frank , Söderhamn Ulrika , Westergren Thomas , Fegran Liv
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this pilot study was to design and test research instruments to measure qualified intensive care nurses’ implicit and explicit attitudes and behavioral intentions toward obese intensive care patients. In previous studies researchers have demonstrated that some health professionals hold negative attitudes toward obese patients; however, little is known about qualified intensive care nurses’ attitudes toward these patients. Our cross‐sectional pilot study involved Implicit Association Tests, the Anti‐fat Attitude questionnaire, an explicit bias scale comprising ratings of explicit beliefs and feelings, assessment of behavioral intentions based on vignettes, and demographic questions. Thirty qualified intensive care nurses from a general intensive care unit in Norway (80% female; age range 31–62 years) completed the study. Nurses reported implicit and explicit preferences for thin over thick patients and found obese patients lazier than normal‐weight patients. Measures of behavioral intentions and anti‐fat attitudes were reliable. Generally, the nurses intended to help obese patients immediately. Nevertheless, explicit anti‐fat attitudes (rho = −0.49) as well as implicit anti‐obese stereotypes (rho = −0.40) were negatively correlated with such intentions. Data supported satisfactory face validity, and convergent and discriminant validity within and between implicit and explicit attitudes and stereotypes. The set of research instruments were reliable, valid, and suitable tools to measure qualified intensive care nurses’ implicit and explicit attitudes; however, the present findings need to be replicated in a larger‐scale study.
Nanofiltration membrane cross‐linked by m‐phenylenediamine for dye removal from textile wastewater
Authors: Gunawan Felicia Marcella , Mangindaan Dave , Khoiruddin K. , Wenten I Gede
Published: October 2018

In this work, m‐phenylenediamine (MPD) is used to prepare cross‐linked polyetherimide (PEI)‐based nanofiltration (NF) membrane for treatment of dye containing wastewater. The effects of dope solution composition, cross‐linking time, and dye concentration on membrane performance are investigated. Results indicate that the rejection of dye is increased with the increase of acetone concentration in the dope solution, cross‐linking time, and dye concentration. Meanwhile, membrane flux showed the opposite trend. With the aid of SEM and FTIR analysis, the cross‐linking between MPD and PEI is confirmed. The cross‐linked membrane has thicker and dense selective layer compared to the unmodified membrane. The cross‐linked NF membrane (PEI: 15 wt%; acetone: 20 wt%; cross‐linking time: 10 minutes) showed good performance in filtration of synthetic dye wastewater (Reactive Red 120, 1500 ppm) with 98% dye rejection and 0.013 L m−2 hour−1 of flux at relatively low operating pressure (60 psi).
Identification of Duchenne/Becker muscular dystrophy mosaic carriers through a combined DNA/RNA analysis
Authors: Zampatti Stefania , Mela Julia , Peconi Cristina , Pagliaroli Giulia , Carboni Stefania , Barrano Giuseppe , Zito Ilaria , Cascella Raffaella , Marella Gianluca , Milano Filippo , Arcangeli Mauro , Caltagirone Carlo , Novelli Antonio , Giardina Emiliano
Published: October 2018

Objective

The Duchenne/Becker muscular dystrophy (DMD) carrier screening includes the evaluation of mutations in DMD gene, and the most widely used analysis is the multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) for the DMD deletions/duplications detection. The high frequency of de novo mutations permits to estimate a risk up to 20% of mosaicisms for mothers of sporadic DMD children. The purpose of this study is to evaluate alternative analytical strategy for the detection of mosaics carrier women, in order to improve the recurrence risk estimation.

Method

Different DNA and RNA analyses were conducted on samples from a woman that conceived a DMD fetus without previous family history of dystrophynopathy.

Results

Standard MLPA analysis failed to identify mosaicism, even if MLPA doses suggested it. Electrophoresis and direct sequencing conducted on RNA permitted to detect two different amplicons of cDNAs, demonstrating the presence of somatic mosaicism. Subsequent detection of a second affected fetus confirmed the mosaic status on the mother.

Conclusion

The implementation of RNA analysis in diagnostic algorithm can increase the sensitivity of carrier test for mothers of sporadic affected patients, permitting detection of mosaic status. A revision of analytical guidelines is needed in order to improve the recurrence risk estimation and support prenatal genetic counseling.
Openness/Intellect and Susceptibility to Pseudo–Profound Bullshit: A Replication and Extension
Authors: Bainbridge Timothy F. , Quinlan Joshua A. , Mar Raymond A. , Smillie Luke D.
Published: October 2018

‘Pseudo–profound bullshit’ (PPBS) is a class of meaningless statements designed to appear profound. Profundity ratings for PPBS have been found to be negatively related to analytical thinking and positively related to epistemically suspect beliefs (e.g. belief in the paranormal). Conceptually similar traits within the Openness/Intellect (O/I) domain form a simplex, whereby traits are arranged along a single dimension from intelligence to apophenia (i.e. observing patterns or causal connections were none exist). Across two studies (total N = 297), we attempted to replicate the O/I simplex and determine how it relates to perceiving PPBS as profound. Participants completed questionnaires measuring traits from the O/I simplex and provided profundity ratings for PPBS. Profundity ratings of PPBS tended to correlate negatively with intelligence and positively with apophenia. The association with intelligence generally reflected a greater ability to discriminate the profound from the pseudo–profound, whereas the association with apophenia reflected poorer discrimination in Study 1, with less conclusive results in Study 2. In both studies, the O/I simplex was closely replicated. The results suggest a link between the O/I domain and perceiving PPBS as profound and tentatively support the theory that intelligence may protect against apophenia. © 2018 European Association of Personality Psychology