bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vesicle adhesion in the electrostatic strong-coupling regime studied by time-resolved small-angle X-ray scattering
Authors: Komorowski Karlo , Schaeper Jannis , Sztucki Michael , Sharpnack Lewis , Brehm Gerrit , Köster Sarah , Salditt Tim
Published: April 2020

We have used time-resolved small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) to study the adhesion of lipid vesicles in the electrostatic strong-coupling regime induced by divalent ions.
Protonated state and synergistic role of Nd3+ doped barium cerate perovskite for the enhancement of ionic pathways in novel sulfonated polyethersulfone for H2/O2 fuel cells
Authors: Gayathri R. , Prabhu M. Ramesh
Published: April 2020

1.8 times higher current density and power density were obtained for a Nd3+ doped barium cerate membrane compared to pure SPES.
Recent advances in emerging Janus two-dimensional materials: from fundamental physics to device applications
Authors: Zhang Lei , Yang Zhenjingfeng , Gong Tian , Pan Ruikun , Wang Huide , Guo Zhinan , Zhang Han , Fu Xiao
Published: April 2020

Recent advances in emerging Janus two-dimensional materials including fundamental physics, unique properties and potential device applications are reviewed.
A newly designed duodenoscope with detachable distal cap significantly reduces organic residue contamination after reprocessing
Authors: Ridtitid Wiriyaporn , Pakvisal Piyapoom , Chatsuwan Tanittha , J. Kerr Stephen , Tiankanon Kasenee , Piyachaturawat Panida , Mekaroonkamol Parit , Kongkam Pradermchai , Rerknimitr Rungsun
Published: April 2020

Background A newly designed duodenoscope with detachable distal cap may reduce bacterial contamination by allowing better access to the elevator. We compared bacterial contamination and organic residue evaluated by rapid adenosine triphosphate (ATP) test and culture from duodenoscopes with detachable vs. fixed distal caps after high-level disinfection (HLD).

Methods During December 2018–April 2019, 108 used newly designed duodenoscopes were enrolled. In group A (n = 54), the distal cap of the duodenoscope was detached before manual cleaning. In group B (n = 54), the distal cap was not detached. After HLD, samples were collected from the elevator, submitted for culture, and evaluated using the ATP test, using the cutoff value of 40 relative light units (RLUs).

Results After HLD, the proportion of potential bacterial contamination and organic residue in group A was significantly lower than in group B (37.0 % vs. 75.9 %; P  < 0.001; relative risk 0.49, 95 % confidence interval 0.33–0.71), and also confirmed by median ATP values (45.2 vs. 141.0 RLU; P  < 0.001). In group B, one sample culture was positive for nonpathogenic bacteria. Pathogenic bacteria were not found in any culture from either group.

Conclusions The detachable distal cap was more effective at eliminating bacterial contamination and reducing organic residue than a fixed cap. Nonpathogenic bacteria were detected in the fixed cap group after reprocessing. The ATP test with 40 RLU cutoff is a practical method to ensure the cleanliness of duodenoscope reprocessing without the need to wait for bacterial culture results.
Radiation Dose Reduction in Preprocedural CT Imaging for TAVI/TAVR Using a Novel 3-Phase Protocol: A Single Institution’s Experience
Authors: Shnayien Seyd , Bressem Keno Kyrill , Beetz Nick Lasse , Asbach Patrick , Hamm Bernd , Niehues Stefan Markus
Published: April 2020

Purpose To retrospectively investigate the effectiveness of a novel 3-phase protocol for computed tomography (CT) before transcatheter aortic valve implantation/transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVI/TAVR) in terms of radiation dose and image quality.

Materials and Methods A total of 107 nonrandomized patients (81 ± 7.4 years) scheduled for TAVI/TAVR underwent preprocedural CT on an 80-row CT scanner. 55 patients underwent a combined ECG-synchronized spiral scan of the chest and non-ECG-synchronized spiral scan of the abdomen/pelvis as recommended by the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (SCCT). 52 patients underwent an updated 3-phase variable helical pitch (vHP3) protocol combining a non-ECG-synchronized spiral scan of the upper thoracic aperture, followed by a prospective ECG-synchronized spiral scan of the heart, and a non-ECG-synchronized abdominal/pelvic spiral scan. The radiation dose was determined from an automatically generated protocol based on the CT dose index (CTDI). Objective image quality in terms of vessel attenuation and image noise was measured, and the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were calculated. Subjective image quality was evaluated using a 4-point scale and compared for interrater agreement using Cohen’s weighted kappa coefficient (κw). All data were compared and statistically analyzed.

Results Use of the novel 3-phase vHP3 protocol reduced the dose-length product (DLP) from 1256.58 ± 619.05 mGy*cm to 790.90 ± 238.15 mGy*cm, reducing the effective dose (E) from 21.36 ± 10.52 mSv to 13.44 ± 4.05 mSv and size-specific dose estimates (SSDE) from 20.85 ± 7.29 mGy to 13.84 ± 2.94 mGy (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in objective and subjective image quality between the two protocols and between the two readers.

Conclusion The novel 3-phase vHP3 protocol significantly reduces the radiation dose of preprocedural TAVI/TAVR CT without a loss of image quality.

Key Points: 

Citation Format
Unbiased proteomics identifies plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 as a negative regulator of endothelial nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Garcia Victor , Park Eon Joo , Siragusa Mauro , Frohlich Florian , Mahfuzul Haque Mohammad , Pascale Jonathan V. , Heberlein Katherine R. , Isakson Brant E. , Stuehr Dennis J. , Sessa William C.
Published: April 2020

Significance

Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) is a fundamental mediator of vascular function influencing cardiovascular homeostasis through the generation of nitric oxide (NO). eNOS activity can be regulated by protein–protein interactions and here using unbiased proteomics, we uncover plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) as a potent negative regulator of eNOS function. Direct eNOS/PAI-1 binding inhibits NO production and bioavailability. Moreover, knockdown or antagonism of PAI-1 increases NO production. Mechanistically, we show that secreted PAI-1 is endocytosed and interacts with eNOS and pharmacological inhibition of PAI-1 improves endothelial function. Thus, this work identifies a nonproteolytic role for PAI-1, and antagonism of PAI-1 may serve as an approach to promote endothelial function and homeostasis.
Emergence of self-organized multivortex states in flocks of active rollers
Authors: Han Koohee , Kokot Gašper , Tovkach Oleh , Glatz Andreas , Aranson Igor S. , Snezhko Alexey
Published: April 2020

Significance

Active materials maintained out of equilibrium due to external energy consumption promise access to tunable structures capable of swarming, shape shifting, and self-healing—properties known mostly throughout the biological world. Developing fundamental understanding and controls of these synthetic systems remains challenging. Active colloidal dispersion of rollers energized by an alternating magnetic field reveals complex emergent dynamics of self-organized vortex structures. Reminiscent of the collective behavior observed in living systems, the emergent vortices are well localized in space and unbound from the geometrical constraints. Our findings provide fundamental insight into the emergence of macroscopic behavior in active roller dispersions and suggest strategies for self-assembled dynamic materials and particulate manipulation at the microscale.
Lexical dispersion and corpus design
Authors: Egbert Jesse , Burch Brent , Biber Douglas
Published: April 2020

Lexical dispersion is typically measured across arbitrary corpus parts of equal size. In this study, we applyDA – a new dispersion index designed for unequal-sized corpus parts – to the British National Corpus (BNC) in a series of cases studies to show that the dispersion of a word is strongly influenced by the corpus units or parts it is measured across. Our results show that dispersion should be measured and interpreted based on corpus units that are linguistically meaningful for a particular research goal. We conclude with recommendations to help researchers select meaningful corpus units for measuring and interpreting lexical dispersion.
Review of life-cycle based methods for absolute environmental sustainability assessment and their applications
Authors: Bjørn Anders , Chandrakumar Chanjief , Boulay Anne-Marie , Doka Gabor , Fang Kai , Gondran Natacha , Hauschild Michael Zwicky , Kerkhof Annemarie , King Henry , Margni Manuele , McLaren Sarah , Mueller Carina , Owsianiak Mikołaj , Peters Greg , Roos Sandra , Sala Serenella , Sandin Gustav , Sim Sarah , Vargas-Gonzalez Marcial , Ryberg Morten
Published: April 2020

In many regions and at the planetary scale, human pressures on the environment exceed levels that natural systems can sustain. These pressures are caused by networks of human activities, which often extend across countries and continents due to global trade. This has led to an increasing requirement for methods that enable absolute environmental sustainability assessment (AESA) of anthropogenic systems and which have a basis in life cycle assessment (LCA). Such methods enable the comparison of environmental impacts of products, companies, nations, etc, with an assigned share of environmental carrying capacity for various impact categories. This study is the first systematic review of LCA-based AESA methods and their applications. After developing a framework for LCA-based AESA methods, we identified 45 relevant studies through an initial survey, database searches and citation analysis. We characterized these studies according to their intended application, impact categories, basis of carrying capacity estimates, spatial differentiation of environmental model and principles for assigning carrying capacity. We then characterized all method applications and synthesized their results. Based on this assessment, we present recommendations to practitioners on the selection and use of existing LCA-based AESA methods, as well as ways to perform assessments and communicate results to decision-makers. Furthermore, we identify future research priorities intended to extend coverage of all components of the proposed method framework, improve modeling and increase the applicability of methods.
Effects of Implementing the Dual Papanicolaou Test Interpretation of ASC-H and LSIL Following Bethesda 2014
Authors: Goyal Abha , Patel Ami P , Dilcher Thomas L , Alperstein Susan A
Published: April 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of implementing the dual interpretation of atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H) and low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) after the Bethesda System 2014 and to compare it with other indeterminate interpretations.

Methods

Rates of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) positivity and histologic follow-up and the proportion of women with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion on histologic follow-up were compared for the combined interpretation of ASC-H and LSIL (ASCHL) and the categories of LSIL, cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL-H) and ASC-H.

Results

The percentage of ASCHL HPV-positive cases (86.0%) was similar to that of LSIL-H but significantly higher in comparison to that of ASC-H. The rates of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or higher (CIN 2+) and CIN 3+ for ASCHL (29.6% and 3.6%, respectively) were similar to those of LSIL-H and ASC-H. When stratified by HPV test results, the proportions of patients with CIN 2+ and CIN 3+ remained statistically similar to those with ASCHL and with LSIL-H and ASC-H.

Conclusions

Considering the similar risks of CIN 2+ and CIN 3+ for ASCHL and ASC-H, having a separate category of ASCHL for reporting cervical cytology appears to be redundant.
An Investigation of the Accuracy of Reaction Time Measurements on ANAM4 TBI-MIL Across Three Computer Platforms
Authors: Arrieux Jacques P , Roberson Brittney L , Russell Katie N , Ivins Brian J , Cole Wesley R
Published: April 2020

Study Design

Using two observational methods and a within-subjects, counterbalanced design, this study aimed to determine if a computer’s hardware and software settings significantly affected reaction time (RT) on the Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (Version 4) Traumatic Brain Injury Military (ANAM4 TBI-MIL).

Methods

Three computer platforms were investigated: Platform 1—older computers recommended for ANAM4 TBI-MIL administration, Platform 2—newer computers with settings downgraded to run like the older computers, and Platform 3—newer computers with default settings. Two observational methods were used to compare measured RT to observed RT on all three platforms: 1, a high-speed video analysis to compare the timing of stimulus onset and response to the measured RT and 2, comparing a preset RT delivered by a robotic key actuator activated by optic detector to the measured RT. Additionally, healthy active duty service members (n = 169) were administered a brief version of the ANAM4 TBI-MIL battery on each of the three platforms.

Results

RT differences were observed with both the high-speed video and robotic arm analyses across all three computer platforms, with the smallest discrepancies between observed and measured RT on Platform 1, followed by Platform 2, then Platform 3. When simple reaction time (SRT) raw and standardized scores obtained from the participants were compared across platforms, statistically significant and clinically meaningful differences were seen, especially between Platforms 1 and 3.

Conclusions

A computer’s configurations have a meaningful impact on ANAM SRT scores. The difference in an individual’s performance across platforms could be misinterpreted as clinically meaningful change.
alona: a web server for single-cell RNA-seq analysis
Authors: Franzén Oscar , Björkegren Johan L M
Published: April 2020

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is a technology to measure gene expression in single cells. It has enabled discovery of new cell types and established cell type atlases of tissues and organs. The widespread adoption of scRNA-seq has created a need for user-friendly software for data analysis. We have developed a web server, alona that incorporates several of the most popular single-cell analysis algorithms into a flexible pipeline. alona can perform quality filtering, normalization, batch correction, clustering, cell type annotation and differential gene expression analysis. Data are visualized in the web browser using an interface based on JavaScript, allowing the user to query genes of interest and visualize the cluster structure. alona accepts a compressed gene expression matrix and identifies cell clusters with a graph-based clustering strategy. Cell types are identified from a comprehensive collection of marker genes or by specifying a custom set of marker genes.

Availability and implementation

The service runs at https://alona.panglaodb.se and the Python package can be downloaded from https://oscar-franzen.github.io/adobo/.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Social Work Communication with Parents Who Are Practising Christians: An Empirical Study
Authors: Woodcock Ross Johanna , Wright Andrew
Published: April 2020

Given Britain’s religious, spiritual and secular diversity, and national legislation and policy directives such as The Children Act 1989 and Working Together to Safeguard Children, this empirical study addressed the lack of specific research investigating social workers’ actual communication-in-action with Christian parents during statutory parenting assessment. The research deployed the two complementary theoretical frameworks of Critical Realism and Worldview studies to generate a deep understanding of communication. Thick descriptions of the communication act, social-worker-with-Christian-parent communication and the attendant meanings attributed to this event by study participants were generated from substantive data obtained from (i) a Forum Theatre performance delivered to thirty-one volunteering qualifying and qualified social workers and from (ii) unstructured qualitative interviews with twelve volunteering Christian parents. Analytic tactics from grounded theory were deployed to conduct the retroductive analysis. Key findings identified some shared social-worker-with-Christian-parent understandings. However, generally, Christian parents were so mistrustful about revealing ontological commitments to their Christian living/parenting praxis that they altered their language—a wariness worsened by the social workers’ absenting of Christian belief-talk through using formulaic strategies.
TUSC3 induces drug resistance and cellular stemness via Hedgehog signaling pathway in colorectal cancer
Authors: Ren Yansong , Deng Ruxia , Cai Rui , Lu Xiansheng , Luo Yuejun , Wang Ziyuan , Zhu Yuchen , Yin Mengyuan , Ding Yanqing , Lin Jie
Published: April 2020

Tumor suppressor candidate 3 (TUSC3) is a coding gene responsible for N-glycosylation of many critical proteins. TUSC3 gene plays an oncogenic role in colorectal cancer (CRC), however, the role of TUSC3 in drug resistance of CRC is still unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the biological function and molecular mechanism of TUSC3 in CRC drug resistance. The expression of TUSC3 in CRC is positively correlated to tumor stage in 90 paired clinical samples, and negatively associated with overall survival and disease-free survival of CRC patients. In vitro, TUSC3 promotes the formation of stemness and induces the drug resistance to 5-fluorouracil and cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) in CRC cells. The tissue microarray assay and bioinformatic analysis indicate that TUSC3 may promote the expression of CD133 and ABCC1 via Hedgehog signaling pathway. Treatment of Hedgehog signaling pathway agonist or inhibitor in TUSC3-silenced or TUSC3-overexpressed cells reverse the effects of TUSC3 in cellular stemness phenotype and drug resistance. Meanwhile, coimmunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence assays indicate a tight relationship between TUSC3 and SMO protein. Our data suggest that TUSC3 promotes the formation of cellular stemness and induces drug resistance via Hedgehog signaling pathway in CRC.
Backward differentiation formula finite difference schemes for diffusion equations with an obstacle term
Authors: Bokanowski Olivier , Debrabant Kristian
Published: April 2020

Finite difference schemes, using backward differentiation formula (BDF), are studied for the approximation of one-dimensional diffusion equations with an obstacle term of the form $$\begin{equation*}\min(v_t - a(t,x) v_{xx} + b(t,x) v_x + r(t,x) v, v- \varphi(t,x))= f(t,x).\end{equation*}$$For the scheme building on the second-order BDF formula, we discuss unconditional stability, prove an $L^2$-error estimate and show numerically second-order convergence, in both space and time, unconditionally on the ratio of the mesh steps. In the analysis an equivalence of the obstacle equation with a Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation is mentioned, and a Crank–Nicolson scheme is tested in this context. Two academic problems for parabolic equations with an obstacle term with explicit solutions and the American option problem in mathematical finance are used for numerical tests.
Risks of Adverse Childhood Outcomes According to Prenatal Time of Exposure to Zika Virus: Assessment in a Cohort Exposed to Zika During an Outbreak in Colombia
Authors: López-Medina Eduardo , Rojas Christian A , Calle-Giraldo Juan P , Alexander Neal , Hurtado Isabel C , Dávalos Diana M , López Pio , Barco Carolina , Libreros Diana , Arias Alejandra , Lesmes Maria C , Pinzón Elisa , Ortiz Viviana A
Published: April 2020

Late gestational exposure to Zika increases the odds of delay in the Bayley-II mental developmental index (MDI) in children with normal baseline neurologic assessments; 9-fold when comparing third and first trimester exposure. Risk of MDI developmental delay increases by 8% for each week of gestational age at time of exposure.
Sunscreen for adventure travel: use sun protection factor 50 or higher
Authors: Zafren Ken
Published: April 2020

For adventure travel to high altitude and low latitude locations as well as to areas with depleted ozone or snow cover, travelers should use clothing that blocks UV radiation and should liberally apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or 50+ to exposed skin.
Volumetric star formation prescriptions in vertically resolved edge-on galaxies
Authors: Yim Kijeong , Wong Tony , Rand Richard J , Schinnerer Eva
Published: April 2020

We measure the gas disc thicknesses of the edge-on galaxy NGC 4013 and the less edge-on galaxies (NGC 4157 and 5907) using CO (CARMA/OVRO) and/or H i (EVLA) observations. We also estimate the scale heights of stars and/or the star formation rate (SFR) for our sample of five galaxies using Spitzer IR data (3.6 and 24 µm). We derive the average volume densities of the gas and the SFR using the measured scale heights along with radial surface density profiles. Using the volume density that is more physically relevant to the SFR than the surface density, we investigate the existence of a volumetric star formation law (SFL), how the volumetric SFL is different from the surface-density SFL, and how the gas pressure regulates the SFR based on our galaxy sample. We find that the volumetric and surface SFLs in terms of the total gas have significantly different slopes, while the volumetric and surface SFLs in terms of the molecular gas do not show any noticeable difference. The volumetric SFL for the total gas has a flatter power-law slope of 1.26 with a smaller scatter of 0.19 dex compared to the slope (2.05) and the scatter (0.25 dex) of the surface SFL. The molecular gas SFLs have similar slopes of 0.78 (volume density) and 0.77 (surface density) with similar rms scatters. We show that the interstellar gas pressure is strongly correlated with the SFR but find no significant difference between the correlations based on the volume and surface densities.
Polarization measurements of the polluted white dwarf G29-38
Authors: Cotton Daniel V , Bailey Jeremy , Pringle J E , Sparks William B , von Hippel Ted , Marshall Jonathan P
Published: April 2020

We have made high-precision polarimetric observations of the polluted white dwarf G29-38 with the HIgh Precision Polarimetric Instrument 2. The observations were made at two different observatories – using the 8.1-m Gemini North Telescope and the 3.9-m Anglo-Australian Telescope – and are consistent with each other. After allowing for a small amount of interstellar polarization, the intrinsic linear polarization of the system is found to be 275.3 ± 31.9 parts per million at a position angle of 90.8 ± 3.8° in the SDSS g′ band. We compare the observed polarization with the predictions of circumstellar disc models. The measured polarization is small in the context of the models we develop, which only allows us to place limits on disc inclination and Bond albedo for optically thin disc geometries. In this case, either the inclination is near-face-on or the albedo is small – likely in the range 0.05–0.15 – which is in line with other debris disc measurements. A preliminary search for the effects of G29-38’s pulsations in the polarization signal produced inconsistent results. This may be caused by beating effects, indicate a clumpy dust distribution, or be a consequence of measurement systematics.
Constraints on the engines of fast radio bursts
Authors: Margalit Ben , Metzger Brian D , Sironi Lorenzo
Published: April 2020

We model the sample of fast radio bursts (FRBs), including the newly discovered CHIME repeaters, using the decelerating synchrotron maser blast wave model of Metzger, Margalit & Sironi (2019), which built on earlier work by Lyubarsky (2014), Beloborodov (2017). This model postulates that FRBs are precursor radiation from ultrarelativistic magnetized shocks generated as flare ejecta from a central engine collides with an effectively stationary external medium. Downward drifting of the burst frequency structure naturally arises from the deceleration of the blast wave coupled with the dependence of the maser spectral energy distribution, and induced Compton scattering depth, on the upstream medium. The data are consistent with FRBs being produced by flares of energy Eflare ∼ 1043–1046(fξ/10−3)−4/5 erg, where fξ is the maser efficiency, and minimum bulk Lorentz factors Γ ≈ 102–103, which generate the observed FRBs at shock radii rsh ∼ 1012–1013 cm. We infer upstream densities next(rsh) ∼ 102–104 cm−3 and radial profiles next ∝ r−k showing a range of slopes k ≈ [ − 2, 1] (which are seen to evolve between bursts), both broadly consistent with the upstream medium being the inner edge of an ion-loaded shell released by a recent energetic flare. The burst time-scales, energetics, rates, and external medium properties are consistent with repeating FRBs arising from young, hyperactive flaring magnetars, but the methodology presented is generally applicable to any central engine which injects energy impulsively into a dense magnetized medium. Several uncertainties and variations of the model regarding the composition and magnetization of the upstream medium, and the effects of the strong electric field of the FRB wave (strength parameter a ≫ 1) on the upstream medium and its scattering properties, are discussed. One-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations of magnetized shocks into a pair plasma are presented which demonstrate that high maser efficiency can be preserved, even in the limit a ≫ 1 in which the FRB wave accelerates the upstream electrons to ultrarelativistic speeds.
Properties of CVSO 30 from TESS measurements: probably a binary T Tauri star with complex light curves and no obvious planets
Authors: Koen C
Published: April 2020

‘Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite’ (TESS) photometry of CVSO 30 spanned 21.8 d, with a single large gap of 1.1 d. This allows alias-free determination of the two periodicities in the data. It is confirmed that both of these are non-sinusoidal: the dominant P1 = 0.4990 d has two detectable harmonics and P2 = 0.4486 d has seven. The large number of harmonics in the second periodicity characterizes a very complex light curve shape. One of the features in the light curve is a sharp dip of duration ∼2 h: this is probably the source of the previously claimed planetary transit signature. The star is a member of a small group of T Tauri stars with complex light curves, which have recently been exhaustively studied using Kepler and TESS observations. The two non-commensurate periods are most simply interpreted as being from two stars, i.e. CVSO 30 is probably a binary.
an3-Mediated Compensation Is Dependent on a Cell-Autonomous Mechanism in Leaf Epidermal Tissue
Authors: Nozaki Mamoru , Kawade Kensuke , Horiguchi Gorou , Tsukaya Hirokazu
Published: April 2020

Leaves are formed by coordinated growth of tissue layers driven by cell proliferation and expansion. Compensation, in which a defect in cell proliferation induces compensated cell enlargement (CCE), plays an important role in cell-size determination during leaf development. We previously reported that CCE triggered by the an3 mutation is observed in epidermal and subepidermal layers in Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis) leaves. Interestingly, CCE is induced in a non-cell autonomous manner between subepidermal cells. However, whether CCE in the subepidermis affects cell size in the adjacent epidermis is still unclear. We induced layer-specific expression of AN3 in an3 leaves and found that CCE in the subepidermis had little impact on cell-size determination in the epidermis, and vice versa, suggesting that CCE is induced in a tissue-autonomous manner. Examination of the epidermis in an3 leaves having AN3-positive and -negative sectors generated by Cre/loxP revealed that, in contrast to the subepidermis, CCE occurred exclusively in AN3-negative epidermal cells, indicating a cell autonomous action of an3-mediated compensation in the epidermis. These results clarified that the epidermal and subepidermal tissue layers have different cell autonomies in CCE. In addition, quantification of cell-expansion kinetics in epidermal and subepidermal tissues of the an3 showed that the tissues exhibited a similar temporal profile to reach a peak cell-expansion rate as compared to wild type. This might be one feature representing that the two tissue layers retain their growth coordination even in the presence of CCE.
Physical Function in the Hospital Is Associated With Patient-Centered Outcomes in an Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility
Authors: Johnson Joshua K , Fritz Julie M , Brooke Benjamin S , LaStayo Paul C , Thackeray Anne , Stoddard Gregory , Marcus Robin L
Published: April 2020

Objective

Poor knowledge of the relationships between physical function (PF) in the hospital and patient outcomes in an inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) limits the identification of patients most appropriate for discharge to an IRF. This study aimed to test for independent associations between PF measured via the AM-PAC “6-clicks” basic mobility short form in the hospital and outcomes in an IRF.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study. Primary data were collected from an acute hospital and IRF at 1 academic medical center. Associations were tested between PF at hospital admission or discharge and PF improvement in the IRF, discharge from the IRF to the community, and 30-day hospital events by estimating adjusted relative risk (aRR) using modified Poisson regression and the relative difference in IRF length of stay (LOS) using Gamma regression.

Results

A total of 1323 patients were included. Patients with moderately low, (aRR = 1.50; 95% CI = 1.15–1.93), moderately high (aRR = 1.52; 95% CI = 1.16–2.01), or high (aRR = 1.37; 95% CI = 1.02–1.85) PF at hospital discharge were more likely than those with very low PF to improve their PF while in the IRF. These same patients were more likely to discharge from IRF to the community and had significantly shorter IRF LOS. Hospital-measured PF did not differentiate risk for 30-day hospital events.

Conclusion

Patients with moderate—but not very low or very high—PF measured near the time of acute hospital discharge were likely to achieve meaningful PF improvement in an IRF. They also had a shorter IRF LOS so may be ideal candidates for discharge to IRF. Prospective studies with larger samples are necessary to test this assertion.

Impact

Providers in the hospital should identify patients with moderate PF near the time of hospital discharge as those who may benefit most from post-acute rehabilitation in an IRF.
An e-mental health intervention to support burdened people in times of the COVID-19 pandemic: CoPE It
Authors: Bäuerle Alexander , Graf Johanna , Jansen Christoph , Dörrie Nora , Junne Florian , Teufel Martin , Skoda Eva-Maria
Published: April 2020

The outbreak of the novel SARS CoV-2-virus (COVID-19) is pushing national and international healthcare systems to their limits. The aspect of mental health issues, which has been neglected (so far) in times of social isolation and governmental restrictions, now demands innovative and situation-based approaches to support psychological burdened people. The developed e-mental health intervention ‘CoPE It’ offers manualized, evidence-based psychotherapeutic/psychological support to overcome psychological distress in times of COVID-19. E-mental health approaches offer great possibilities to support burdened people during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic effectively.
Changing (?) Gender Roles Within Conservative Communities: An Analysis of Group Interview Narratives of Bedouin Women
Authors: Harel-Shalev Ayelet , Kook Rebecca , Elkrenawe Feniar
Published: April 2020

This article focuses on the creative and innovative modes of negotiation that women in severely patriarchal societies often exhibit in their attempts to actively pursue their own goals in the face of risk. Based on group interviews with Bedouin women in southern Israel about their everyday lives, the research explores both the risks and the ways in which the women deal with them. The research expands on discussions about the nature of women’s agency in the context of the power relations prevalent in specific communities, paying attention to the multiple modes of subordination experienced by the women of such communities.
Participant food and activity costs in a translational Diabetes Prevention Program
Authors: Schafer Gerald L , Songer Thomas J , Arena Vincent C , Kramer M Kaye , Miller Rachel G , Kriska Andrea M
Published: April 2020

The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) and its translational adaptations have been shown to be effective. However, individual-level economic impacts, such as the out-of-pocket costs borne by participants due to involvement in these programs have not been consistently and thoroughly evaluated. As cost is an important consideration that will impact the willingness of individuals to participate in such programs, this study examined direct monetary costs to participants in the Group Lifestyle Balance (GLB) DPP. Older adults (n = 134, mean age 62.8 years) with body mass index (BMI) ≥24 kg/m2 and prediabetes and/or metabolic syndrome participated in this GLB intervention, with two-thirds randomized to begin the intervention immediately and one-third functioning as a control for 6 months before receiving the entire intervention. Food and activity time and costs borne by participants were measured by self-report at baseline and after 6 months. Significant improvements in clinical metabolic measures, weight, and physical activity levels were achieved after 6 months in the intervention group compared both with baseline and the controls. Food costs did not increase among intervention participants. Costs related to physical activity did not change consistently over the course of the intervention. This DPP–GLB lifestyle intervention was effective in reducing risk factors for Type 2 diabetes mellitus among a diverse group of older participants without significantly increasing their out-of-pocket costs for food or physical activity over the course of the intervention. These results should help reduce concerns of individuals who are hesitant to participate in similar programs due to costs. The clinical trial registration number of this study is NCT01050205.
Eliciting Cell Death Using Recombinant IgA Fc‐Folate Antibody Mimetics
Authors: Turnbull Alissa , Tepe Gokturk , Mohammed Saimaa , Peraino Nicholas , Speyer Cecilia
Published: April 2020

High grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSC) is a very deadly and aggressive subtype of ovarian cancer that lacks common receptors frequently targeted by cancer therapeutic agents. Its high mortality rate is due in part to the lack of an effective targeted therapy. Many types of cancer cells have been shown to overexpress folate receptor alpha (FRA), a protein that binds folic acid and mediates the delivery of folate into the cell. FRA has been shown to be highly expressed in HGSC and therefore it has been hypothesized that FRA can be utilized as a cellular target for redirecting neutrophils (PMNs) against this type of aggressive cancer cell. To test this, three IgA1 Fc fragment variants were synthesized utilizing the baculovirus insect cell system and purified by IgA affinity chromatography. After characterization by MALDI‐TOF, folate was attached to the Fc fragments by coupling it to lysine amine groups. Excess activated folate was removed using 7kD Zeba desalting spin columns and the Fc‐folates were concentrated using Pierce’s PES protein concentrators (10kD MWCO). Once synthesized, binding of Fc‐folates to FRA on a variety of HGSC cells was confirmed by running 3H‐folate binding assays and observing their ability to elicit neutrophil activity. Neutrophils were activated through the Fc‐folates binding to the IgA Fc receptors (CD89) resulting in killing of the cancer cells through a process known as antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), which was determined by measuring lysis of cancer cells loaded with green tracker dye. All three Fc‐folate antibody mimetics bound FRA and induced potent ADCC against HGSC cells, suggesting a possible competent targeted treatment for this aggressive subtype of cancer.

Support or Funding Information

NIH STTR Grant #R41CA213548
Kinin B1 Receptor Blockade Attenuates Hypertension via Angiotensin II Mediated Signaling in Neurons
Authors: Parekh Rohan Umesh , Sriramula Srinivas
Published: April 2020

Interaction between renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) and kallikrein‐kinin system (KKS) has been shown to play an important role in the regulation of blood pressure. We previously reported that kinin B1 receptor (B1R) expression is increased in the neurons of hypertensive mice with elevated angiotensin II (Ang II) levels in the brain. However, the role of B1R in neurogenic hypertension and its interaction with Ang II type 1 receptor (AT1R), the major receptor of Ang II, have not been studied. Ang II treatment (1 μg/kg/min, SC, 2 weeks) significantly increased blood pressure (radiotelemetry) in male wild‐type (WT) mice (145 ±13 mmHg, n=6, p<0.01) compared to control mice (103 ±6 mmHg, n=6). This increase in blood pressure was attenuated in B1R knockout (B1RKO) mice with Ang II infusion (118 ±12 mmHg, n=6, p<0.01). In addition, B1R knockdown significantly reduced Ang II‐induced AT1R expression and vasopressin levels. In order to further confirm the causative role of B1R on inducing hypertension, we used a specific B1R agonist Lys‐des‐Arg9‐BK (LDABK) to activate central B1R and measured blood pressure response using telemetry transmitters. A single bolus intracerebroventricular injection of 50 ng of LDABK, significantly increased blood pressure compared to artificial cerebrospinal fluid (18 ±5 mmHg vs. 4 ±2 mmHg, n=6, p<0.01), supporting the hypothesis that B1R activation can induce hypertensive response. To further understand the neuron specific B1R mediated signaling, we isolated mouse neonatal primary hypothalamic neuronal cultures from WT and B1RKO mice and investigated the interaction between Ang II and B1R activation. Stimulation of primary neurons with LDABK (300 nM, 24 h), significantly increased the expression of AT1R mRNA (3‐fold vs. vehicle; n=6; p<0.05) and resulted in neuroinflammation as indicated by upregulated expression of inflammatory markers interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor, and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1. These changes were attenuated in B1RKO neurons or pretreatment of WT neurons with R715 (a B1R specific peptide antagonist). Together, these data provide novel evidence that kinin B1R plays an important role in mediating hypertension possibly via modulating angiotensin signaling in the brain.
Glutinous rice fermented with Fu brick tea: effects on phenolic content, antioxidant activities and DNA damage protection
Authors: Xu Xiao , Shen Chi , Yuan Biao , Sun Jianqiu , Hu Baowei , Xiao Hang
Published: April 2020

Rice‐based fermented foods are centuried with great number of varieties in East Asia. Recently, fermented glutinous rice has also been paid with great attention outside the Asia because of its unique flavor and health‐promoting value. The fermented juice products, such as rice wine, are not only beverages but also irreplaceable ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine, while the fermented rice grains are manufactured into staple foods. Fu brick tea, rich in polyphenols, polysaccharides and other bioactive compounds, is welcomed in west Asia, due to its participation in antioxidation and facilitative effects on the metabolism of carbohydrate and fat. In this study, we developed a novel fermented glutinous rice product with the supplementation of Fu brick tea (FGR‐FBT), with improved health benefits and increased phenolic content. We found that fermentation with Fu brick tea could enrich phenolic compounds, increase the total phenolic content, and enhance the antioxidant activities of glutinous rice. Free radical‐scavenging activities (covering DPPH radical, ABTS radical and hydroxyl radical), reducing power (covering ferric‐reducing antioxidant power and ferric ion reducing power), and chelating activities for metal ions were utilized for antioxidation analysis. The lower IC50 values of 10.75 ± 0.24/30.67 ± 0.29 μg/mL exhibited by FGR‐FBT hydroalcoholic/water extracts and 224.55 ± 3.63/257.71 ± 4.82 μg/mL of FGR respective extracts determined by ABTS radical confirmed stronger antioxidative capabilities displayed by FGR‐FBT. Besides, this novel fermented glutinous rice supplemented with Fu brick tea exhibited a stronger DNA protective ability against oxidation damage. Under the protection of 100–400 μg/mL of FGR‐FBT hydroalcoholic extracts, DNA scission was inhibited according to the reserved 49% to 67% of supercoiled DNA, while only 21% in the control group. Besides, antioxidative compounds including catechins and phenolic acids were extracted by hydroalcoholic solvents and qualitative analyzed using HPLC‐Triple‐TOF‐MS/MS system. Moreover, the biotransformation and bioavailability of phenolic compounds were elevated by solid‐state fermentation with Fu brick tea based on in vitro digestion system and CaCo‐2 transwell evaluation. Together, this novel fermented product as a phenolic‐rich functional food or a nutraceutical additive would improve the bioactivity of traditional foods. These findings could introduce great further interests in the utilization of Fu brick tea to develop novel products.
Glucose Metabolism on Gastrulation: Interference Causes Morphological and Gene Expression Defects in Embryoid Bodies
Authors: Li Aileen Sok Wan , Marikawa Yusuke
Published: April 2020

Tight blood glucose control is important during pregnancy for the conceptus. Studies have found high incidences of severe drops in blood glucose level (hypoglycemia) in pregnant women during the first trimester, the most crucial period to embryo development and when the conceptus is most vulnerable to maternal environment. Here, we utilized aggregated P19C5 mouse embryonal carcinoma stem cells or embryoid bodies (EBs) to investigate changes during gastrulation when glucose metabolism is altered. We used morphometrics and real‐time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and detected differential shape and gene expression in EBs which glucose metabolism pathways were targeted. We found evidence that glucose metabolism is essential for posterior elongation of the axis. Our results implicate glucose metabolism in germ layer formation by acting on Wnt and Nodal signaling. In the future, we want to elucidate the mechanism glucose metabolism mediates gastrulation and to establish whether our conclusions of the model system are similar to that of other mammalian species.

Support or Funding Information

National Institutes of Health
Glucose Regulated Protein (GRP78) as a Biomarker of Response to Bortezomib‐based Regimen in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Gupta Pooja , Ramachandran Suganthi S. , Gupta Ritu , Kumar Lalit
Published: April 2020

Introduction

GRP78 overexpression has been associated with bortezomib resistance in multiple myeloma (MM) cells. However, serum GRP78 as a maker of bortezomib based treatment response remains unexplored. The objective of the study was to evaluate serum GRP78 levels in MM patients who underwent bortezomib based induction regimen.

Methods

After ethical approval, this cross‐sectional study was done in adult MM patients who had completed at least 4 cycles of bortezomib based induction therapy. They were classified into responders (complete response (CR), very good partial response (VGPR), partial response (PR)) and non‐responders (stable disease (SD) and progressive disease (PD)). Thirty healthy volunteers and twenty newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients were also recruited to identify the disease associated change in GRP78 levels. Serum GRP78 was estimated by ELISA. Surface and intracellular expression of GRP78 in bone marrow plasma cells was evaluated in a subset of MM patients by flowcytometry.

Results

Thirty MM patients who completed at least 4 cycles of bortezomib based induction therapy [median(range): 52 (38–68) years; Male:20] were enrolled. Out of 30 patients, 20 were responders and 10 were non‐responders. They were comparable at baseline in all clinical and laboratory parameters except serum M protein which was significantly higher in non‐responders (p=0.04). Serum GRP78 levels were not significantly different between responders [median (IQR): 5.2 (3.1,8.0) μg/ml] and non‐responders [median (IQR): 4.3 (0.1,7.1) μg/ml] (p=0.356). Although non‐significant (p=0.342), median serum GRP78 was higher in newly diagnosed patients when compared to healthy volunteers. Bone marrow plasma cell percentage ranged between 0.2 to 57.8% in the analyzed samples. Intracellular GRP78 expression was found to be higher (1.6 to 5 times) when compared to surface expression in plasma cells as well as in malignant subset of plasma cells.

Conclusion

Serum GRP78 did not differ between responders from non‐responders in MM patients who underwent bortezomib based induction regimen.

Support or Funding Information

Intramural Research Grant
Assessment of Ion Affinity for the Lipid Bilayer Interface
Authors: Hills Ronald D. , White Jessica L. , Chalmers Kathryn A. , Lotana Humphrey L.
Published: April 2020

Calcium ions play a key role in cell signaling processes, yet the molecular nature of their interaction with heterogenous membranes is difficult to study with traditional techniques. Parameters were developed for sodium, calcium and chloride ions for use with the CgProt force field for molecular dynamics simulations of membrane‐protein systems. Similar to atomistic simulations, highly attractive behavior was observed for calcium with zwitterionic POPC/POPE membrane interfaces. Both sodium and calcium preferentially bound to the phosphate region of anionic POPG bilayers. The addition of CaCl2 to implicit solvent simulations had the effect of stabilizing the lipid bilayer. Sub‐molar concentrations of calcium adsorb onto POPE and POPG membranes and enable low or zero tension simulations. Close agreement in the area per lipid was obtained compared to results from atomistic simulations, indicating the utility of the model for large scale membrane simulations.

Support or Funding Information

National Science Foundation, grant MCB 1516826