bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of CREB‐mediated ZO‐1 and activation of NF‐κB‐induced IL‐6 by colonic epithelial MCT4 destroys intestinal barrier function
Authors: Zhang Shunxian , Xu Wanfu , Wang Hongli , Cao Meiwan , Li Musheng , Zhao Junhong , Hu Yan , Wang Yaodong , Li Songyu , Xie Yuanwen , Chen Guanhua , Liu Ruitao , Cheng Yang , Xu Zhaohui , Zou Kejian , Gong Sitang , Geng Lanlan
Published: August 2019

Objective

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a disorder intestinal inflammation and impaired barrier function, associated with increased epithelial expression of monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4). However, the specific non‐metabolic function and clinical relevance of MCT4 in IBD remain to be fully elucidated.

Methods

Lentivirus‐mediated overexpression of MCT4 was used to assess the role of MCT4 in transcriptionally regulating ZO‐1 and IL‐6 expression by luciferase assays, WB and ChIP. IP was used to analyse the effect of MCT4 on the interaction NF‐κB‐CBP or CREB‐CBP, and these MCT4‐mediated effects were confirmed in vivo assay.

Results

We showed that ectopic expression of MCT4 inhibited ZO‐1 expression, while increased pro‐inflammatory factors expression, leading to destroy intestinal epithelial barrier function in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, MCT4 contributed NF‐κB p65 nuclear translocation and increased the binding of NF‐κB p65 to the promoter of IL‐6, which is attributed to MCT4 enhanced NF‐κB‐CBP interaction and dissolved CREB‐CBP complex, resulting in reduction of CREB activity and CREB‐mediated ZO‐1 expression. In addition, treatment of experimental colitis with MCT4 inhibitor α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamate (CHC) ameliorated mucosal intestinal barrier function, which was due to attenuation of pro‐inflammation factors expression and enhancement of ZO‐1 expression.

Conclusion

These findings suggested a novel role of MCT4 in controlling development of IBD and provided evidence for potential targets of IBD.
The availability and acquisition of modafinil on the internet
Authors: Dursun Suat , Dunn Matthew , McKay Fiona H.
Published: August 2019

Introduction and Aims

Prescription medications are readily accessible on both the dark and surface web. This study focuses specifically on modafinil. Modafinal is a medication that is used to treat sleepiness due to a range of sleep disorders, but is also used off‐label as a cognitive enhancer. This study aimed to evaluate surface websites which sold modafinil to Australia to provide an overview of and to document the characteristics of surface web retailers.

Design and Methods

An online search to identify online retailers selling modafinil was performed using three search engines. Retailers were included if they sold modafinil to Australia, as verified through the purchasing process. Thirteen retailers were included in the final sample.

Results

Most retailers sold more than one product, with products being sold in tablet form the most common (88%). Retailers offered products of multiple strength, with the 200 mg product most common (51%). Most retailers included information on the side effects of the substances (77%), few listed any supporting evidence. Few listed information regarding legal status (24%). Most retailers used a number of features to indicate legitimacy.

Discussion and Conclusion

This is the first study to document the characteristics of surface web retailers purporting to sell modafinil to Australia. Future studies may analyse purchased samples to identify potential counterfeit or poor‐quality medications.
Recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis and a brief history of brittle diabetes research: contemporary and past evidence in diabetic ketoacidosis research including mortality, mental health and prevention
Authors: Garrett C. J. , Choudhary P. , Amiel S. A. , Fonagy P. , Ismail K.
Published: August 2019

Pharmacological, technological and educational approaches have advanced the treatment of Type 1 diabetes in the last four decades and yet diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) continues to be a leading cause of admission in Type 1 diabetes.

This article begins by reviewing the contemporary epidemiological evidence in DKA. It highlights a rise in DKA episodes in the last two decades, with DKA continuing to be the leading cause of death in young people with Type 1 diabetes, and that DKA episodes are a marker for subsequent all‐cause mortality. It also summarizes the limited evidence base for DKA prevention and associations with psychopathology.

To emphasize the importance of this group with high‐risk Type 1 diabetes and the degree to which they have been overlooked in the past two decades, the article summarizes the research literature of recurrent DKA during 1976–1991 when it was extensively investigated as part of the phenomenon of ‘brittle diabetes’. This period saw numerous basic science studies investigating the pathophysiology of recurrent DKA. Subsequently, research centres published their experiences of brittle diabetes research participants manipulating their treatment under research conditions. Unfortunately, the driver for this behaviour and whether it was indicative of other people with ketoacidosis was not pursued.

In summary, we suggest there has been a stasis in the approach to recurrent DKA prevention, which is likely linked to historical cases of mass sabotage of brittle diabetes research. Further investigation is required to clarify possible psychological characteristics that increase the risk of DKA and thereby targets for DKA prevention.
Neurophysiological correlates of collective perceptual decision‐making
Authors: Baumgart Kristina G. , Byvshev Petr , Sliby Alexa‐Nicole , Strube Andreas , König Peter , Wahn Basil
Published: August 2019

Humans frequently perform tasks collaboratively in daily life. Collaborating with others may or may not result in higher task performance than if one were to complete the task alone (i.e., a collective benefit). A recent study on collective benefits in perceptual decision‐making showed that dyad members with similar individual performances attain collective benefit. However, little is known about the physiological basis of these results. Here, we replicate this earlier work and also investigate the neurophysiological correlates of decision‐making using EEG. In a two‐interval forced‐choice task, co‐actors individually indicated presence of a target stimulus with a higher contrast and then indicated their confidence on a rating scale. Viewing the individual ratings, dyads made a joint decision. Replicating earlier work, we found a positive correlation between the similarity of individual performances and collective benefit. We analyzed event‐related potentials (ERPs) in three phases (i.e., stimulus onset, response and feedback) using explorative cluster mass permutation tests. At stimulus onset, ERPs were significantly linearly related to our manipulation of contrast differences, validating our manipulation of task difficulty. For individual and joint responses, we found a significant centro‐parietal error‐related positivity for correct versus incorrect responses, which suggests that accuracy is already evaluated at the response level. At feedback presentation, we found a significant late positive fronto‐central potential elicited by incorrect joint responses. In sum, these results demonstrate that response‐ and feedback‐related components elicited by an error‐monitoring system differentially integrate conflicting information exchanged during the joint decision‐making process.
Extensive ossification of the ungular cartilages and other osseous abnormalities of the proximal and distal phalanges
Authors: Tivey M.‐E. L. , Van Dijk J. , Dyson S.
Published: August 2019

Ossification of the ungular cartilages of the equine foot has been well documented. There is growing evidence to suggest that extensively ossified cartilages (≥grade 4) can be associated with injury, pain and lameness. The objectives of this study were to describe the locations and extent of new bone on the proximal and distal phalanges and to determine the frequency of occurrence related to the ossification grade of the ungular cartilages. It was hypothesised that new bone formation would be seen more commonly in horses with grades ≥4 ossification than those with ossification of grade ≤3. Data were collected from 929 sets of images from individual limbs of 589 horses. Logistic regression modelling was used to indicate predictor variables that were significant. In 15.4% of limbs, there was grade 4 or 5 ossification of one or both ungular cartilages. New bone formation was seen on the palmaromedial and palmarolateral aspects of the diaphyseal and distal metaphyseal regions of the proximal phalanx in 28.7% of limbs. New bone formation was seen on the dorsal, dorsomedial and dorsolateral aspects of the distal phalanx, midway between proximal and distal in 7.2% of limbs. New bone formation was seen more commonly on the proximal phalanx (P≤0.002) and the distal phalanx (P≤0.042) in feet with grade ≥4 ossification of the ungular cartilages than in feet with ossification grade ≤3. Thoroughbred (odds ratio [OR] 0.398) and Warmblood (OR 0.522) breeds had a lower risk of new bone formation on the proximal phalanx compared with other breeds. Increasing age was a risk factor for new bone formation on the proximal phalanx (OR 1.092) but was associated with reduced risk of new bone on the distal phalanx. New bone formation on the proximal and distal phalanges may contribute to pain and lameness.
A guide to Mycobacterium mutagenesis
Authors: Borgers Katlyn , Vandewalle Kristof , Festjens Nele , Callewaert Nico
Published: August 2019

The genus Mycobacterium includes several pathogens that cause severe disease in humans, like Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb), the infectious agent causing tuberculosis. Genetic tools to engineer mycobacterial genomes, in a targeted or random fashion, have provided opportunities to investigate M. tb infection and pathogenesis. Furthermore, they have allowed the identification and validation of potential targets for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of tuberculosis. This review describes the various methods that are available for the generation of mutants in Mycobacterium species, focusing specifically on tools for altering slow‐growing mycobacteria from the M. tb complex. Among others, it incorporates the recent new molecular biological technologies (e.g. ORBIT) to rapidly and/or genome‐wide comprehensively obtain targeted mutants in mycobacteria. As such, this review can be used as a guide to select the appropriate genetic tools to generate mycobacterial mutants of interest, which can be used as tools to aid understanding of M. tb infection or to help developing TB intervention strategies.
Newer and select maize, wheat, and rice varieties can help mitigate N footprint while producing more grain
Authors: Ying Hao , Yin Yulong , Zheng Huifang , Wang Yingcheng , Zhang Qingsong , Xue Yanfang , Stefanovski Darko , Cui Zhenling , Dou Zhengxia
Published: August 2019

Sustainably feeding the growing population amid a changing climate and dwindling resources is a grand challenge facing mankind. Decades‐long advancement in crop breeding has progressively elevated yield potential, markedly enhancing global food production capacity. However, relevant impact on reactive N (Nr) emissions associated with crop variety improvement has not been explicitly described. Here, we report multitiered evidence that newer and select maize, wheat, and rice varieties developed in China have the capacity to substantially lower Nr losses while producing more grain. First, we pooled studies featuring side‐by‐side comparison of different varieties, totaling 269 paired observations, to demonstrate that collectively, relatively newer varieties of maize, wheat, and rice had less Nr emissions (9.6%–23.5%) while yielding more grains (7.3%–11.2%) compared to older varieties under wide‐ranging conditions. Next, we built an extended database (142 field studies with 833 observations) and comprehensively evaluated the Nr‐loss reduction potential of newer varieties (2000 and after) versus older ones (1985–1999). We found that newer varieties had Nr emission factors (N loss as a percentage of N applied after correcting for background emissions) 18.2%–75.7% less for N2O, 18.3%–75.7% less for , and −8.5% to 22.8% less for NH3, while producing more grains (16.0%–24.4%). Individual varieties differed markedly in yield‐emission scores. A nationwide farmer survey (2.47 million responses) indicated tremendous opportunities for a new way of management intervention. Coupling variety selection with sound N and other agronomic management can help lower N footprint while producing more grain.
Elevated temperature impact on performance of Low Temperature Co‐fired Ceramic dielectrics
Authors: Polotai Anton , Voak Julie , Henry Jim , Thoss David , Yang Yi , Chitale Sanjay
Published: August 2019

The need for electronics to operate at temperatures of 200°C and above continues to grow. These applications include avionics, aerospace, automotive, downhole drilling, mining, and many others. To satisfy this demand, a significant amount of research and development has been conducted. Despite the efforts, the number of new electronic components designed specifically for high‐temperature operation is still relatively limited. In Low Temperature Co‐fired Ceramic (LTCC) packages, LTCC materials are generally used as the host media for a number of pre‐fabricated semiconductor components. As a result, reliability of the entire LTCC package largely depends on the performance of the least robust component. Ferro A6M‐E and Ferro L8 are the two well‐established and recognized LTCC dielectrics widely used for mid and high frequency LTCC applications, including several high reliability aerospace and defense applications that require demanding Mil‐Spec qualifications. This study is our first attempt to characterize and understand basic high‐temperature dielectric properties of these two commercial LTCC materials. The secondary objective is to initiate a dialogue in attempt to establish reliability requirements for LTCC packages dedicated for high‐temperature operation.
Fabrication of Al2O3‐SiO2 ceramics through combined selective laser sintering and SiO2‐sol infiltration
Authors: Li Chen‐Hui , Hu Liang , Zou Yang , Liu Jiang‐An , Xiao Jian‐Hua , Wu Jia‐Min , Shi Yu‐Sheng
Published: August 2019

In this study, different posttreatment methods, including silica‐sol infiltration (SI), vacuum silica‐sol infiltration (vSI), debinding (DB), and pressure‐less sintering (PS), were combined with selective laser sintering (SLS) to fabricate Al2O3‐SiO2 ceramics. The macro‐morphology and microstructure of sample fabricated under different laser processing parameters and posttreatment process were investigated. Results show that the geometric dimension accuracy and surface quality of the final samples can be effectively improved with appropriate SLS parameters and posttreatment. The optimal SLS processing parameters are determined to be 0.15 mm, 10 W, 0.1 mm, and 1500 mm/s for the hatch spacing, laser power, layer thickness, and scanning speed, respectively. The SLS/DB/vIN/FS samples have the smallest linear shrinkage ratio (<1%), the least warpage degree (<3%), and the best surface quality (surface altitude difference <170 μm). Mullite, quartz, corundum, and cristobalite composed the phases of the sample, of which cristobalite came largely from the infiltrated silica‐sol. Since a higher amount of silica‐sol infiltrated into the sample under SLS/DB/vIN/FS process, more cristobalite phase formed in the pore of the sample during sintering, which avoided excessive microstructure shrinkage during sintering and ensured the high geometric accuracy and surface quality of the final sample.
Study of a quantitative method to evaluate the wear resistance of glazed tiles
Authors: Yu Yougen , Su Huazhi , Xiao Jinghong , Yuan Fangli , Gu Xuan , Peng Cheng , Wu Jianqing
Published: August 2019

As glazes are papery, there is no method capable of evaluating the surface wear resistance of glazed tiles. Thus, Taber abraser with rubber wheels and abrasive belts was employed to grind out a regular wear track. The volume of track was estimated using profilometer and its analyzing software precisely. The evaluation reliability of this method was verified using six float glasses, and the standard deviation of volume loss results could be controlled less than 10%. The appropriate operating parameters were investigated using float glasses and two types of ceramic tiles from different manufacturers. The method proposed in this work has potential of success to evaluate the surface wear resistance of ceramic tiles quantitatively and precisely.
Towards potato protein utilisation: insights into separation, functionality and bioactivity of patatin
Authors: Fu Yu , Liu Wan‐Ning , Soladoye Olugbenga P.
Published: August 2019

Potato fruit juice (PFJ) is a dilute industrial by‐product of potato starch industry containing potato protein that is abundant in patatin, a major storage protein. From an economic standpoint, conversion of potato protein into a high value‐added food ingredient has received considerable attention. In this review, the structural and physicochemical characteristics of patatin are introduced. The separation and purification methods of patatin are compared and summarised. The functional properties of patatin as food ingredients are comprehensively reviewed. The beneficial effects of patatin on health and food application are emphatically presented. In addition, the current challenges for development of patatin as a functional food ingredient are also discussed. This review offers a theoretical basis for further application of patain in the food industry.
Comparative efficacy of actinidin from green and gold kiwi fruit extract on in vitro simulated protein digestion of beef Semitendinosus and its myofibrillar protein fraction
Authors: Gong Xi , Morton James D. , Bhat Zuhaib F. , Mason Susan L. , Bekhit Alaa El‐Din A.
Published: August 2019

This study was conducted to evaluate the comparative efficacy of actinidin from green and gold kiwifruit extract on in vitro simulated gastrointestinal protein digestion of cooked beef Semitendinosus and its myofibrillar protein fraction. Samples collected during gastrointestinal digestion were analysed for protein profile, protein digestibility (%), soluble protein (%) and free amino acid analysis. The addition of kiwifruit extracts significantly (P < 0.05) increased protein digestibility, soluble protein and free amino acids released during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. The in vitro digestibility (%) of the meat samples digested along the green or the gold kiwifruit extract was 2.08% and 3.47% higher than control samples respectively. The soluble protein (%) of the meat samples digested along the green kiwifruit extract was significantly (P < 0.05) higher (18.28%) than control samples (13.03%) after gastrointestinal digestion. Comparatively, actinidin from green kiwifruit extract was more effective than gold kiwifruit extract.
Keynes's grandchildren and Marx's gig workers: Why human labour still matters
Authors: EKBIA Hamid R. , NARDI Bonnie A.
Published: August 2019

The current anxiety around the globe regarding automation and “the future of work”, the irrelevance of human labour and the superfluity of humans is based on recurring ideas about technology, work and economic value. Not quite novel, the debate on these ideas dates back to prominent thinkers, such as Karl Marx and John Maynard Keynes. To grasp the present moment, therefore, the authors revisit this debate within the broader history of capitalism. With a focus on labour and technology, they bring attention to the hidden forms of value creation in the current economy and to the blind spots of the historical debate, and envision various possible scenarios for the future.
Predictors for influenza vaccination among Thai pregnant woman: The role of physicians in increasing vaccine uptake
Authors: Kaoiean Surasak , Kittikraisak Wanitchaya , Suntarattiwong Piyarat , Ditsungnoen Darunee , Phadungkiatwatana Podjanee , Srisantiroj Nattinee , Asavapiriyanont Suvanna , Chotpitayasunondh Tawee , Dawood Fatimah S. , Lindblade Kim A.
Published: August 2019

Background

Physician recommendation and attitudes and beliefs of pregnant women toward influenza and vaccination may influence vaccine uptake during pregnancy. We examined how physician recommendation and health beliefs of pregnant women may jointly affect influenza vaccination during pregnancy.

Methods

Thai pregnant women aged ≥18 years and >13 gestational weeks attending antenatal care (ANC) clinics, and ANC physicians were recruited during May‐August 2015. Women and physicians, linked using unique identifiers, provided data on demographic, health and work history, knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs toward influenza and vaccination, based on Health Belief Model constructs. Physicians also provided data on their practices in recommending influenza vaccination during pregnancy. Prevalence ratios for the association between knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of pregnant women, physician recommendation and documented receipt of vaccination within 30 days of the visit were calculated.

Results

Among 610 women, the median age was 27 years; 266 (44%) and 344 (56%) were in the second and third trimesters, respectively. Twenty‐one (3%) had pre‐existing conditions. Of 60 physicians with the median years of practice of 5; 17 (28%) reported frequently/usually/always recommending influenza vaccine to their pregnant patients, while 43 (72%) reported never/rarely/sometimes recommending the vaccine. Controlling for the pregnant women's knowledge and beliefs, pregnant women whose physician recommended influenza vaccination were 2.3 times (95% confidence interval 1.4‐3.8) more likely to get vaccinated.

Conclusions

In this study, physician recommendation was the only significant factor associated with influenza vaccine uptake among Thai pregnant women. Understanding physicians’ motivation/barrier to recommending influenza vaccination to pregnant women may increase coverage.
Influences of supply chain finance on the mass customization program: risk attitudes and cash flow shortage
Authors: Guo Shu , Liu Na
Published: August 2019

In recent years, to satisfy diversified customer needs in the target market, an increasing number of brands have launched mass customization (MC) programs as one of their core operations strategies. The production process flexibility and personalization degree of customized products (i.e., the MC products) have thus become key to the success of MC schemes. In the meantime, however, considering the high market uncertainty in consumer preferences and the challenges from the production process, there are plenty of risks in MC operations. Hence, in this paper we develop a game‐theoretic model consisting of an MC brand and an upstream manufacturer to identify the influences of supply chain finance (SCF) on MC programs. The influences brought by the risk attitudes of both MC brand and manufacturer are analyzed. Besides, an extra interest rate for raising the working capital for production (e.g., from the bank) at the manufacturing level is also considered in this paper to address the impact of cash flow shortage. We find that when the positive sensitivity of the market demand with respect to the modularity level of the MC product is sufficiently high, the optimal product modularity level of the MC product increases with the MC brand's degree of risk averse. In addition, it can also be observed that when both the market demand's positive sensitivity to the modularity level of the MC product and the MC brand's opportunity cost rate for placing the advance order are sufficiently high, any increase in the risk‐averse degree of the MC brand or the manufacturer will lower the manufacturer's optimal wholesale price of the MC product as well as the MC brand's optimal rate of the advance order. Furthermore, the higher the interest that the manufacturer needs to pay (such as to the bank) for raising the working capital for the MC production process, the lower the optimal wholesale price of each finished MC product will be to help the manufacturer raise more money through the advance order placed by the MC brand. These observations complete the findings in the extant literature and provide important managerial insights into managing MC operations.
Vibrational spectroscopic and crystal chemical analyses of double perovskite Y2MgTiO6 microwave dielectric ceramics
Authors: Yang Hongcheng , Zhang Shuren , Yang Hongyu , Yuan Ying , Li Enzhu
Published: August 2019

Structure‐property relationships of Y2MgTiO6, a type of double perovskite materials, were investigated systematically. Rietveld refinement of XRD patterns confirmed that Y2MgTiO6 belongs to the P21/c space group and has a structure analogous to that of monoclinic Dy2MgTiO6. In accordance with the observed number of vibrational bands and group theoretical predictions, O and Y ions at the 4e site dominated the Raman peaks. The IR reflectivity spectrum indicated that the major contributions to the relative permittivity and intrinsic loss were modes lower than 500 cm−1. The measured relative permittivity closely approached the calculated values determined according to P‐V‐L theory, the Clausius‐Mossotti equation and IR fitted results. The larger bond energy for Mg–O bonds than for Ti–O bonds corresponds to a more stable octahedron of [MgO6], as verified by the octahedral distortion. Satisfactory microwave dielectric properties of Y2MgTiO6 ceramics were as follows: εr = 20.4 ± 0.8, Q × f = 42 060 ± 310 GHz, τf = −52 ± 3 ppm/°C, sintered at 1450°C.
Vacancy‐ and doping‐dependent electronic and magnetic properties of monolayer SnS2
Authors: Ullah Hamid , Noor‐A‐Alam Mohammad , Shin Young‐Han
Published: August 2019

We have performed first‐principles calculations to investigate the formation and migration of vacancies and doping with M (M = Ti, V, Co, Mo, W, Re) at the Sn sites and X (X = O, Se, Te) at the S sites in monolayer SnS2. We find that the formation energies for S vacancy under both Sn‐ and S‐rich environments are lower than those for Sn vacancy, indicating that the vacancies at the S sites are likely to be formed during the synthesis. Reducing the possibility of vacancy cluster formation, both the vacancies at the Sn and S sites remain robust due to high migration barrier. Additionally, SnS2 with the vacancies at the Sn sites induces magnetic ground states with a magnetic moment of 4.00 μB. Both the Sn‐ and S‐sites vacancies preserve the semiconducting nature of pristine SnS2 with band gaps of 2.47 eV and 0.30 eV, respectively. Furthermore, we find that the dopants Ti, V, Mo, W, Re can be easily incorporated at the Sn sites in monolayer SnS2 due to the low formation energies under the S‐rich environment. However, Co may not be easily incorporated into SnS2. The doping with M at the Sn sites induces magnetic ground states in non‐magnetic SnS2. Additionally, a long‐range magnetic ordering is observed in SnS2 doped with V, Co, and Mo. In contrast, easy incorporation of O, Se, and Te at the S sites under the Sn‐rich environment has been observed while the semiconducting nature of SnS2 preserves with small band gaps.
Green to red and NIR tunable luminescence in heavily Er3+‐doped tellurite glasses via selective energy transfer mechanism
Authors: Wang Weirong , Yu Guanliang , Wang Ruibin , Jiang Chun
Published: August 2019

Here, we select simple Er3+‐doped tellurite glass as model system to systematically explore the up‐conversion, down‐shifting mechanisms with different excitations (980 and 447 nm), respectively. We observe for the first time, to the best of our knowledge that tunable photo‐luminescence occurs from green to red and NIR region, rather than merely from the long‐accepted green to red region. Direct evidence of selective energy transfer mechanism is expounded in detail, and its potential applications are demonstrated. In addition, we provide evidence that the cross‐relaxation process between dopant ions can enhance photo‐luminescence in Er3+ doped tellurite glasses with high dopant concentrations, whereas the crucial reason for emission decrease is the energy loss long‐distance energy migration. These fundamental insights into the photophysical processes in heavily doped photonic glasses will broaden the applications of rare‐earth‐doped materials ranging from optical communications to medical imaging.
Long non‐coding RNA expressed in macrophage co‐varies with the inflammatory phenotype during macrophage development and polarization
Authors: Xie Yixin , Wang Min , Tian Jingjing , Li Xianping , Yang Min , Zhang Kan , Tan Shan , Luo Lingli , Luo Can , Peng Longkai , Tang Aiguo
Published: August 2019

Advances in microarray, RNA‐seq and omics techniques, thousands of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) with unknown functions have been discovered. LncRNAs have presented a diverse perspective on gene regulation in diverse biological processes, especially in human immune response. Macrophages participate in the whole phase of immune inflammatory response. They are able to shape their phenotype and arouse extensive functional activation after receiving physiological and pathological stimuli. Emerging studies indicated that lncRNAs participated in the gene regulatory network during complex biological processes of macrophage, including macrophage‐induced inflammatory responses. Here, we reviewed the existing knowledges of lncRNAs in the processes of macrophage development and polarization, and their roles in several different inflammatory diseases. Specifically, we focused on how lncRNAs function in macrophage, which might help to discover some potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers.
Characterization of cowhage‐induced pruritus in inflamed and non‐inflamed skin
Authors: André F. , Fluhr J.W. , Hawro T. , Church M.K. , Maurer M. , Metz M.
Published: August 2019

Background and objective

Pruritus is a major symptom of many inflammatory diseases and impacts greatly the quality of life in patients. We aimed to specify the characteristics of experimentally induced pruritus in normal skin and in experimentally induced inflammatory dermatitis in healthy volunteers.

Methods

Skin inflammation was induced by the repeated application of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS 2%) on the volar forearms of 30 healthy volunteers. Inflammatory dermatitis intensity was assessed using the eczema score adapted from Frosch and Kligman. Non‐histaminergic pruritus was induced by cowhage spicules rubbed on the volar forearms and recorded for 30 min on a 10‐cm visual analogue scale (VAS) in both non‐inflamed and inflamed skin.

Results

Induction of inflammatory dermatitis by SLS resulted in a mild inflammatory dermatitis with an inflammation score of 2.3 ± 0.1 within 7 days of treatment. Cowhage‐induced pruritus was of markedly higher intensity (P < 0.001), and all but two individuals had higher maximum pruritus intensity in inflamed skin as compared to non‐inflamed skin, whereas the kinetics of the pruritus response were similar. The quality of cowhage‐induced pruritus was significantly different with more ‘burning’ and ‘painful sensations’ in inflamed skin (P < 0.01). Maximum pruritus intensity in inflamed skin strongly correlated with maximum pruritus intensity in non‐inflamed skin (r = 0.51, P = 0.004). Skin hydration, skin barrier integrity and dermatitis severity did not correlate with pruritus intensity.

Conclusion

Taken together, pruritus in inflamed skin is perceived as more intense, painful and burning. This may explain, in part, why pruritus is a major driver of quality‐of‐life impairment in patients with chronic inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis.
The epidemic of methylisothiazolinone contact allergy in Europe: follow‐up on changing exposures
Authors: Uter W. , Aalto‐Korte K. , Agner T. , Andersen K.E. , Bircher A.J. , Brans R. , Bruze M. , Diepgen T.L. , Foti C. , Giménez Arnau A. , Gonçalo M. , Goossens A. , McFadden J. , Paulsen E. , Svedman C. , Rustemeyer T. , White I.R. , Wilkinson M. , Johansen J.D. ,   on behalf of the European Environmental Contact Dermatitis Research Group
Published: August 2019

Background

Methylisothiazolinone (MI) has caused an unprecedented epidemic of contact allergy in Europe and elsewhere. Subsequently, regulatory action has been taken, at least in Europe, aiming at reducing risk of MI sensitization.

Objective

To follow‐up on the prevalence of contact allergy to MI in consecutively patch tested patients and assess the spectrum of products containing MI or methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI)/MI in patients positive to MI which elicited current allergic contact dermatitis.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was performed in 2016 and 2017, including all adult patients patch tested with the baseline series (including MI 0.2% aq.) between 1 May and 31 October at 14 centres in 11 European countries. Patients with positive reactions (+ to +++) to MI were further examined regarding history, clinical characteristics and eliciting products, which were categorized into 34 types and 4 classes (leave‐on, rinse‐off, household, occupational). The results were compared with the reference year 2015.

Results

A total of 317 patients, n = 202 of 4278 tested in 2016 (4.72%) and n = 115 of 3879 tested in 2017 (2.96%), had positive reactions to MI; the previous result from 2015 was 5.97% (P < 0.0001). The share of currently relevant contact allergy among all positive reactions declined significantly as well (P = 0.0032). Concerning product classes, a relative decline of leave‐on and a relative increase of rinse‐off and household products was noted.

Conclusion

The prevalence of MI contact allergy decreased by 50% from 2015 to 2017. As a consequence of regulation, the share of cosmetics products (leave‐on in particular) eliciting allergic contact dermatitis is decreasing. The chosen method of analysing causative products in sensitized patients has proven useful to monitor effects of intervention.
Users of biologics in clinical practice: would they be eligible for phase III clinical studies? Cohort Study in the French Psoriasis Registry PSOBIOTEQ
Authors: Masson Regnault M. , Castañeda‐Sanabria J. , Diep Tran M.H.T. , Beylot‐Barry M. , Bachelez H. , Beneton N. , Chosidow O. , Dupuy A. , Joly P. , Jullien D. , Mahé E. , Richard M.‐A. , Viguier M. , Tubach F. , Sbidian E. , Paul C. ,   The PsoBioTeq Study Group
Published: August 2019

Background

Numerous inclusion and exclusion criteria are involved in phase III moderate to severe psoriasis trials investigating the safety and efficacy of biologics. This questions the generalization of results.

Methods

In this cohort study, we applied inclusion/exclusion criteria for phase III trials from original protocols (adalimumab – REVEAL, ustekinumab – PHOENIX, brodalumab – AMAGINE, secukinumab FIXTURE) to all patients enrolled in the PsoBioTeq prospective registry who received a biological agent for the first time between July 2012 and November 2017. We then compared the efficacy, drug survival and occurrence of adverse events between patients who satisfied/did not satisfy the eligibility criteria for these phase III trials.

Results

A total of 1267 patients were enrolled, of whom 993 (78.4%) were not eligible for at least one RCT (randomized controlled trial) and 251 (19.1%) did not meet the PASI/PGA severity requirements. Apart from disease severity, the most frequent criteria resulting in exclusion were as follows: non‐plaque psoriasis (12.6%), significant cardiac disease (8.4%), significant liver disease (7.3%), elevated liver enzymes (4.9–9.6%) and personal history of diabetes (9.2%). There was no difference in drug survival between the two groups. The incidence ratio of adverse events was significantly lower in eligible versus non‐eligible patients [0.78 (95% CI 0.62–0.97) (P = 0.03)].

Conclusion

The majority of patients treated with biologics in the PsoBioTeq real‐life registry would not have been eligible for phase III moderate to severe psoriasis trials. Patients not eligible for psoriasis phase III clinical trials have a higher incidence of adverse events.
UAA and UAG may Encode Amino Acid in Cathepsin B Gene of Euplotes octocarinatus
Authors: Wang Ruanlin , Liu Jingni , Di Giuseppe Graziano , Liang Aihua
Published: August 2019

The ciliate Euplotes deviates from the universal genetic code by translating UGA as cysteine and using UAA and UAG as the termination codon. Here, we cloned and sequenced the Cathepsin B gene of Euplotes octocarinatus (Eo‐CTSB) which containing several in‐frame stop codons throughout the coding sequence. We provide evidences, based on 3′‐RACE method and Western blot, that the Eo‐CTSB gene is actively expressed. Comparison of the derived amino acid sequence with the homologs in other eukaryotes revealed that UAA and UAG may code for glutamine in Eo‐CTSB. These findings imply an evolutionary complexity of stop codon reassignment in eukaryotes.
Batch and continuous cultivation processes of Candida tropicalis TISTR 5306 for ethanol and pyruvate decarboxylase production in fresh longan juice with optimal carbon to nitrogen molar ratio
Authors: Nunta Rojarej , Techapun Charin , Jantanasakulwong Kittisak , Chaiyaso Thanongsak , Seesuriyachan Phisit , Khemacheewakul Julaluk , Mahakuntha Chatchadaporn , Porninta Kritsadaporn , Sommanee Sumeth , Trinh Ngoc T. , Leksawasdi Noppol
Published: August 2019

The carbon to nitrogen (C/N) molar ratio of 21.88 ± 0.20 in fresh juice from C‐grade longan (FLJ‐C) supplemented with ammonium sulfate (AMS) was optimal for cultivation of Candida tropicalis TISTR 5306 producing ethanol concentration of 24.0 ± 1.1 g/L and specific pyruvate decarboxylase (PDC) activity of 0.138 ± 0.001 U/mg protein. The highest ethanol concentration in a 10 L continuous process (34.3 ± 0.5 g/L, dilution rate [D] = 0.0492 hr−1) was significantly higher (p ≤ .05) than that in 100 L batch process (13.2 ± 0.2 g/L at 108 hr). The highest volumetric PDC activities of 0.081 ± 0.001 U/ml (D = 0.0070 hr−1) and 0.107 ± 0.001 U/ml (48 hr) were attained for continuous and batch processes, respectively. The affinity constants and growth‐related weighting factors on sucrose and monosaccharides (glucose and fructose with the same values) utilization were (123 ± 1 g/L, 0.14 ± 0.01) and (34.1 ± 1.5 g/L, 0.43 ± 0.01) with MS and R2 of 92.2 and .9552, respectively.

Practical applications

FLJ‐C is an example of agricultural produces with relatively high production quantity (50,000 t/year in Thailand) and high sugars content but low marketing demands due to the smallest size of pulp. The complex nitrogen source contains costly components (yeast extract—78.3 USD/kg, malt extract—148 USD/kg, and peptone—151 USD/kg) which can be replaced with an inexpensive AMS (1.05 USD/kg). Further consideration of C/N molar ratio in FLJ‐C can optimize growth, ethanol (alternative biofuel/industrial solvent) production, and specific PDC (biocatalyst for phenylacetylcarbinol—PAC, anti‐asthmatic and nasal decongestant precursors) activity of C. tropicalis TISTR 5306 whole cells which can be used as a case study for other related yeasts. Batch and continuous production at 100 L and 10 L also illustrate practical utilization of FLJ‐C with AMS supplement at larger scales for development of subsequent zero waste process.
Optimization of the spray‐drying parameters for developing guava powder
Authors: Aragüez‐Fortes Yojhansel , Robaina‐Morales Laura M. , Pino Jorge A.
Published: August 2019

Spray‐drying process for guava pulp was optimized by response surface methodology. The factors were inlet air temperature (130–170°C) and maltodextrin DE 10 content (60–75% wb pulp solids basis), while powder yield, moisture, ascorbic acid retention, rehydration, and hygroscopicity were the responses variables. Inlet air temperature caused a positive effect on powder yield and ascorbic acid retention, while moisture content, rehydration, and hygroscopicity were negatively affected by maltodextrin content. The optimal conditions for drying guava pulp were an inlet air temperature of 148°C and maltodextrin content of 75% wb pulp solids basis; these parameters led to 67.9% powder yield, 4.2% wb moisture content, 90% ascorbic acid retention, 60 s rehydration time, hygroscopicity 21.7 g of water/100 g of dry matter and 9.2 μm of particle mean diameter.

Practical application

Nowadays an increase in the use of foods that are easy to make or ready for direct consumption has received a significant attention. Guava fruit has many health benefits potential, but it has short shelf life and seasonal crop. This research give the information about the effect of inlet air temperature and maltodextrin content on spray drying process and physicochemical properties of the developed guava powder. It is important for dehydrated pulp and juice producers to avoid production problems, such as stickiness and low yield.
Determination of the effect of ethyl pyruvate on the surface contamination of sausage to Listeria monocytogenes by using Q‐PCR assay
Authors: Cetin Bayram , Ucak Ozkaya Gulsum , Uran Harun , Durak Muhammed Z.
Published: August 2019

In this study, we examined the effect of ethyl pyruvate on the efficacy of the inactivation of Listeria monocytogenes on the surface of sausage samples by using quantitative PCR (Q‐PCR). Propidium monoazide (PMA) was used for direct quantification of viable and dead cells. The samples inoculated with L. monocytogenes (~3 to 4 log CFU/mL) and uninoculated samples were treated with 0, 42, 105, and 420 mg/L vaporized ethyl pyruvate (EP) in 1 L volume containers. Sausage samples were tested on Days 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 with regards to changes in microbial, physicochemical, and quality characteristics. As compared with control samples (EP no‐applied), 105 and 420 mg/L concentration of vaporized EP applications were provided 1 and 2 log reduction, respectively. The vaporized EP application was considered to be an alternative preservation method for the modified atmosphere and vacuum packaging and could be easily applied, especially in meat products such as sausages.

Practical application

EP could be used for successful preservation of meat and meat products.
Associations between Skeletal Muscle and Myocardium in Aging: A Syndrome of “Cardio‐Sarcopenia”?
Authors: Keng Bryan M.H. , Gao Fei , Teo Louis L.Y. , Lim Wee Shiong , Tan Ru San , Ruan Wen , Ewe See Hooi , Koh Woon‐Puay , Koh Angela S.
Published: August 2019

Objectives

The link between skeletal muscle and heart disease remains intriguing. It is unknown how skeletal muscle may be associated with aspects of myocardial structure and function, particularly in the presence of aging‐related sarcopenia. We hypothesize that among aging adults with sarcopenia, alterations in myocardial structure and/or function may exist, resulting in a syndrome of “cardio‐sarcopenia.”

Methods

Participants derived from a community cohort study underwent same‐day bioimpedance body composition analysis that measured skeletal muscle in sites such as the trunk, upper limb, and lower limb, and echocardiography for assessment of myocardial structure and function. Sarcopenia was diagnosed using the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia criteria.

Results

We studied a total of 378 participants, of whom 88 (23.3%) had sarcopenia. Participants with sarcopenia had smaller left ventricular (LV) sizes (lower LV internal diameter end diastole (4.1 ± .7 vs 4.5 ± .6 cm; P < .0001), lower LV internal diameter end systole (2.3 ± .5 vs 2.5 ± .4 cm; P = .010), lower LV posterior wall end diastole (.7 ± .1 vs .8 ± .1 cm; P = .0036), and lower LV posterior wall end systole (1.4 ± .3 vs 1.5 ± .2 cm; P = .0031). Sarcopenic participants also had lower LV mass (106 ± 35 vs 126 ± 53; P = .0014) and lower left atrial (LA) volume (33 ± 13 vs 36 ± 13; P = .033). Adjusting for age and diabetes mellitus, skeletal muscle mass was associated with LV diameter (β = .06; 95% confidence interval [CI] = .03‐.09; P < .0001), LV mass (β = 4.04; 95% CI = 1.78‐6.29; P = .001), LA diameter (β = .05; 95% CI = .01‐.09; P = .007), and LA volume (β = 1.26; 95% CI = .38‐2.13; P = .005). A positive linear correlation was observed between LV mass and handgrip strength (r = .25; P < .0001).

Conclusion

Among a community sample of older adults with preserved heart function, sarcopenia is associated with reductions in LV and LA sizes. Skeletal muscle mass was independently associated with specific indices of myocardial structure. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:2568–2573, 2019
Empowerment in Polish fathers of children with autism and Down syndrome: the role of social support and coping with stress – a preliminary report
Authors: Pisula E. , Banasiak A.
Published: August 2019

Background

Although empowerment is an important factor in the adaptation of parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, our understanding of empowerment in fathers or how it relates to coping with stress and subjective social support is limited. In Poland, families with children with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience many challenges because of insufficient support. Although parental contribution to developing different forms of services for people with disability is crucial, the potential of fathers is underestimated and poorly understood.

Methods

The study enrolled 35 fathers of children with autism with intellectual disability, 37 fathers of children with Down syndrome and 40 fathers of typically developing children. They completed three questionnaires: Family Empowerment Scale, Ways of Coping Questionnaire and Social Support Questionnaire – Short Form.

Results

Compared with other groups, family empowerment was lower in fathers of children with autism. No group differences were found for the service system and community dimensions of empowerment. In the fathers of children with autism, social support was not related to empowerment, but there was a negative correlation between emotional coping and service system. Satisfaction with social support in fathers of children with Down syndrome correlated positively with the community dimension of empowerment.

Conclusions

Results show that fathers of children with autism and intellectual disability require support in family empowerment and that the significance of emotion‐focused and problem‐focused coping and social support in the context of empowerment differs in fathers of children with autism and Down syndrome. These results should be considered preliminary because of the limited sample size.
Hematological and blood chemistry values in captive Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata fuscata)
Authors: Miyabe‐Nishiwaki Takako , MacIntosh Andrew J. J. , Kaneko Akihisa , Morimoto Mayumi , Suzuki Juri , Akari Hirofumi , Okamoto Munehiro
Published: August 2019

Background

Biological information about captive Japanese macaques, including hematology and blood chemistry, is still lacking despite the fact that ethological and ecological data have accumulated during decades of field research.

Methods

Hematological (511 examinations of 280 Japanese macaques) and blood chemistry data (between 33 and 284 examinations from between 29 and 257 individual macaques) in clinically healthy, simian retrovirus‐free Japanese macaques tested between 2009 and 2013 were reviewed.

Results and Conclusions

Specific hematological and blood chemistry data for Japanese macaques without clinical signs of disease were provided in this study. Averages presented can be used as hematological parameters for Japanese macaques. Some differences between Japanese macaques and other closely related macaque species were found. Some parameters varied according to macaque age and sex, as well as regional origin. The data in this study will provide useful clinical indices for Japanese macaques in captive and similar conditions.