bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nicotinamide riboside exerts protective effect against aging-induced NAFLD-like hepatic dysfunction in mice
Authors: Han Xue , Bao Xiaogang , Lou Qi , Xie Xian , Zhang Meng , Zhou Shasang , Guo Honggang , Jiang Guojun , Shi Qiaojuan
Published: August 2019

Background & Aims

Aging is one of the risk factors of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Yet, the mechanism underlying the aging-associated NAFLD-like syndrome is not fully understood. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), a ubiquitous coenzyme, has protective effects against aging. Here, we investigated the actions of NAD precursors nicotinamide riboside (NR) on the development of aging-induced NAFLD.

Methods

NR supplemented food (2.5 g/kg food) was applied to aged mice for three months while normal chow to the other groups. Body weight, food intake, liver weight and fat pat mass were measured. The serum concentrations of lipid content, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and NAD were determined by biochemical assays. Pathological assessment and immunohistochemistry analysis of hepatic tissues were used to evaluate the effect of NR on NAFLD development and inflammatory infiltration.

Results

NR repletion significantly reduced fat pat mass in aged mice, while not altered the body weight, food intake, and liver weight. NR repletion significantly rescued the NAD reduction in aged mice. The total cholesterol and triglyceride levels could be lowered by NR repletion in aged mice. The AST level was also significantly reduced by NR repletion in aged group, while the ALT level lowered but without significance. Notably, moderate NAFLD phenotypes, including steatosis and hepatic fibrosis could be markedly corrected by NR repletion. In addition, Kupffer cells accumulated and inflammatory infiltration could also be remarkably reversed by NR repletion in aged mice.

Conclusion

Aging was associated with NAFLD-like phenotypes in mice, which could be reversed by oral NR repletion. Therefore, oral NR uptake might be a promising strategy to halt the progression of NAFLD.
Family Functioning of People Living with HIV/AIDS Accessing Care at a Nigerian Tertiary Health Centre
Authors: Adesina Stephen Adesope , Amole Isaac Olusayo , Durodola Adewumi Ojeniyi , Awotunde Olufemi Timothy , Olaolorun David Akintayo , Adeniran Adenike , Odeigah Louis O.
Published: August 2019

Aims: To assess the family functioning and identify its determinants among adult PLWHA at Bowen University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.

Study Design: The study is a descriptive cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of the Study: The study was conducted in the Antiretroviral (ARV) Clinic of the Bowen University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, Nigeria from January 2014 to March 2014.

Methodology: Sixty-one HIV-infected patients aged 18 years and older were selected using the systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a pre-tested, structured, researcher-administered questionnaire which had a section on respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics and incorporated the General Functioning scale of the Family Assessment Device to assess their family functioning. The data were analysed using SPSS and presented as descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: The mean age of the 61 respondents was 37.1±8.1 years and 43 (70.5%) of them were females. Most of the respondents were married (65.6%) and the proportion of those with primary education (37.7%) was highest. A mean General Functioning (GF) score of 1.8±0.6  indicated an overall healthy family functioning. The proportion of respondents with healthy family functioning was highest for the married among all marital categories and decreased with increasing level of education. These associations of marital status and level of education with family functioning were statistically significant (P = 0.02 and 0.04, respectively) based on the result of Fisher’s exact test.

Conclusion: The fact that larger proportions of the respondents were married and had low education level was found to have influenced the finding of a high rate of healthy family functioning in this study. Therefore, regular family functioning assessment as part of routine evaluation of PLWHA is suggested, and interventions that can temper the dysfunctional influences of formal education on family functioning should be incorporated into HIV/AIDS care.
AHP Method for Selecting the Best Strategy to Enhance Safety Culture: A Case Study at “XYZ” Company in Qatar
Authors: Hadian Cece , . Kholil , Abdullah Syahfirin
Published: August 2019

Lack of safety culture awareness in the ambulance services affects not only locally but internationally in different countries, including at "XYZ" a company in Qatar. Many studies mentioned about risks and hazards associated with ambulance services that result from illnesses, accidents, or property damaged because of a lack of safety culture. The results of the safety culture survey in ambulance service of XYZ Company were showing less of commitment and involvement of ambulance personnel to safety 52.6% and less motivation 57.9%. It supports by the achievement of key performance index of ambulance services that was 85 % – 96 % from the target. This paper discussed a strategy to improve safety culture in ambulance services. The authors conducted a research study utilizing the AHP method to select the best approach by following the real condition.  This study compares the essential factors in improving safety culture based on eight criteria and three strategies safety climate which the result shows that (a) The commitment of senior management with a value of 0.247 or (247%), and (b) Operational approach strategy with a value of 0.386 or (38.6%), with CR of 0.03 are among the top priorities needed in the operational of ambulance services to run optimally.
Flood Management Model in Digital Era, Using SAST (Strtategic Assumption Surfacing and Testing) and the Exponential Comparison Method (ECM): A Case Study in Jakarta
Authors: . Kholil , Prinajati Diah , Annisari Nikki Astarina
Published: August 2019

Flooding is a regular annual disaster in Jakarta, especially in December to February. Geographical position of Jakarta which is 40% below sea level, causes flooding not only from rain, but also from rob due to rising sea levels. In the last 5 years the impact of flooding became more serious, leading to economic and human losses.

This study aims to determine the right strategy of flood mitigation by public involvement in the digital era. The method used includes combination of quality input data from experts representing BNPB (National Disaster Agency), Local Goverment, Academics, Community Leaders, Businessmen, and Practitioners, in addition to vulnerable field research. Data analysis uses the ECM (Exponential Comparison Method) and SAST (Strategic Assumption Surfacing and Testing).

The result of the study indicates that the most appropriate strategy to mitigate flood disaster is establishment of “Disaster Information Center” and "Disaster alert groups” involving every stakeholder from the community. Utilization of social media, especially WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram has been very helpful to share information of flood, especially how to prepare an emergency action to reduce economic and human losses.
Characteristics of the Exradin W1 scintillator in the magnetic field
Authors: Yoon Jeongmin , Kim Jung‐In , Choi Chang Heon , Park Jong Min
Published: August 2019

To investigate the angular dependency of the W1 scintillator with and without a magnetic field, the beam incidence angles to the detector varied from 0° to 360° at intervals of 30° when the detector was pointed in both the craniocaudal and right‐to‐left directions. The beam incidence angles also varied from 0° to 360° at intervals of 45° when the W1 scintillator was in the anterior‐to‐posterior direction. To investigate the field size dependency of the W1 scintillator with and without a magnetic field, the doses by an identical beam‐on time were measured at various square field sizes and the measured doses were normalized to the dose at the field of 10.5 cm × 10.5 cm (FS10.5). With and without a magnetic field, the deviations of the doses to the dose at the beam incident angle of 0° were always less than 1% regardless of the dosimeter positioning relative to the magnetic field direction. When the field sizes were equal to or less than FS10.5, the differences in the output factors with and without a magnetic field were less than 0.7%. However, those were larger than 1% at fields larger than FS10.5, and up to 3.1%. The W1 scintillator showed no angular dependency to the magnetic field. Differences larger than 1% in the output factors with and without a magnetic field were observed at field sizes larger than 10.5 cm × 10.5 cm.
A group of Brazilian Turner syndrome patients: Better quality of life than the control group
Authors: Reis Carolina T. , Macedo Marina C. , Morcillo André M. , Guerra‐Junior Gil , de Lemos‐Marini Sofia Helena V.
Published: August 2019

Current literature presents no consensus regarding which aspects influence health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of women with Turner syndrome (TS). The objective of the present study was to compare HRQoL in the TS and control group, using components and domains of the Medical Outcomes Study 36‐Item Short Form Health Survey (SF‐36). Observational, descriptive, and cross‐sectional study with 44 women with TS aged between 18 and 30 years (TS group) and 44 healthy women of the same age which were sisters, relatives, or friends of the TS group (control group). A registration form and the SF‐36 questionnaire were used to analyze HRQoL in TS in relation to the control group. The TS group presented better scores in the mental component summary and in the role physical, bodily pain, general health, social function, and role emotional domains compared to the control group. This study presented some unexpected results, different from those found in the current literature, showing the possibility of TS patients presenting better coping strategies. It is necessary to develop a specific questionnaire to assess QoL in TS and analyze in great detail which factors may influence the HRQoL of these patients.
Manuka honey sinus irrigations in recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis: phase 1 randomized, single‐blinded, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Ooi Mian Li , Jothin Arvind , Bennett Catherine , Ooi Eng H. , Vreugde Sarah , Psaltis Alkis J. , Wormald Peter‐John
Published: August 2019

Background

Manuka honey (MH) has significant antibiofilm activity in vitro and in vivo against Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin‐resistant S aureus (MRSA), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This is the first randomized, single‐blinded, placebo‐controlled phase 1 clinical trial investigating the safety and preliminary efficacy of MH with augmented methylglyoxal (MGO) rinses in recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Methods

Patients were included after previously undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery and presenting with signs and symptoms of sinus infection with positive bacterial cultures on sinus swabs. Patients were randomized to receive 14 days of twice‐daily 16.5% MH + 1.3 mg/mL MGO sinonasal rinses and concurrent 10 days of placebo tablets (MH), or 14 days of twice‐daily saline sinonasal rinses and concurrent 10 days of culture‐directed antibiotic therapy (CON). Safety observations included the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT) and adverse‐event (AE) reporting. Efficacy was assessed comparing microbiology results, Lund‐Kennedy scores (LKSs), and symptom scores using the visual analog scale (VAS) and 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22).

Results

Twenty‐five patients completed the study. MH demonstrated a good safety profile with no major AEs and no changes in UPSIT. Six of 10 (60%) MH patients had a reduction in bacterial culture rate with 1 of 10 of those having negative cultures, compared with 12 of 15 (80%) in the control group with 7 of 15 having negative cultures upon completion of the study.

Conclusion

This study concludes that twice‐daily 16.5% MH augmented with 1.3 mg/mL MGO sinonasal rinses alone for 14 days is safe but not superior to culture‐directed oral antibiotics and twice‐daily saline rinses.
Application of [Fe3O4@SiO2@(CH2)3Py]HSO4− as heterogeneous and recyclable nanocatalyst for synthesis of polyhydroquinoline derivatives
Authors: Sajjadifar Sami , Azmoudehfard Zahra
Published: August 2019

Four‐component condensation reaction of aromatic aldehydes, dimedone, ethyl acetoacetate and ammonium acetate in the presence of a catalytic amount of ionic liquid on silica‐coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles as a heterogeneous, recyclable and very efficient catalyst provided the corresponding polyhydroquinoline derivatives in good to excellent yields in ethanol under reflux condition. The [Fe3O4@SiO2@(CH2)3Py]HSO4− catalyst was characterized using various techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, powder X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, vibrating sample magnetometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Furthermore, the recovery and reuse of the catalyst were demonstrated seven times without detectable loss in activity.
Water, an Essential Element for a ZnII‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Quinone Diels‐Alder Reaction: Multi‐Selective Construction of Highly Functionalized cis‐Decalins
Authors: Morimoto Kyosuke , Le Thien Phuc , Manna Sudipta Kumar , Kiran I. N. Chaithanya , Tanaka Shinji , Kitamura Masato
Published: August 2019

A ZnII complex of a C2‐chiral bisamidine‐type sp2N bidentate ligand (LR) possessing two dioxolane rings at both ends catalyzes a highly efficient quinone asymmetric Diels‐Alder reaction (qADA) between o‐alkoxy‐p‐benzoquinones and 1‐alkoxy‐1,3‐butadienes to construct highly functionalized chiral cis‐decalins, proceeding in up to a >99:1 enantiomer ratio with a high generality in the presence of H2O (H2O:ZnII=4–6:1). In the absence of water, little reaction occurs. The loading amount of the chiral ligand can be minimized to 0.02 mol % with a higher Zn/LR ratio. This first success is ascribed to a supramolecular 3D arrangement of substrates, in which two protons of an “H2O‐ZnII” reactive species make a linear hydrogen bond network with a dioxolane oxygen atom and one‐point‐binding diene; the ZnII atom captures the electron‐accepting two‐points‐binding quinone fixed on the other dioxolane oxygen atom via an n‐π* attractive interaction. The mechanisms has been supported by 1H NMR study, kinetics, X‐ray crystallographic analyses of the related ZnLR complexes, and ligand and substrate structure‐reactivity‐selectivity relationship.
Fixed bed gasification of corn stover biomass fuel: Egypt as a case study
Authors: El‐Sattar Hoda A. , Kamel Salah , Jurado Francisco
Published: August 2019

This paper focuses on the optimal performance of a small tri‐generation power, heat, and cooling plant, which uses corn stover as the feedstock. First, 100 kg h−1 of the corn stover is converted into syngas by the gasification process, using a downdraft fixed‐bed reactor at gasification temperatures reaching 995 °C and with an oxidant–fuel ratio of 1.65. About 243.18 kg h−1 of product gas mass flow with 4.766 MJ kg−1 of calorific value is supplied to an externally fired gas turbine (EFGT) to convert this fuel to electrical power. It is estimated that the EFGT is capable of producing 70.57 kW of electrical power with a high‐temperature heat exchanger efficiency of 75% and a pressure ratio of 4.84 at a turbine inlet temperature of 875 °C. The absorption refrigeration system is used for the cooling process. The cooling power (ℚ

eva
) of the absorption cooling system is 130.92 kW with a cooling tower temperature of 15 °C and a system performance coefficient (PC) of 0.6. The recovered heat flow to the generator (
ℚ

gen
) and the refrigerating heat flow are 82.62 kWth
and 48.83 kWref
, respectively, with a circulation ratio of 4.07. For the whole system (gasifier, EFGT, and absorption cooling), the gross electrical efficiency (ηnetEL ) is 21.78% and the net thermal efficiency (ηth
) is 47.43% with a system cooling‐to‐power ratio (CPR) of 1.88. The simulation of this system was conducted using Cycle‐Tempo software. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Local average treatment effects estimation via substantive model compatible multiple imputation
Authors: DiazOrdaz Karla , Carpenter James
Published: August 2019

Nonadherence to assigned treatment is common in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Recently, there has been increased interest in estimating causal effects of treatment received, for example, the so‐called local average treatment effect (LATE). Instrumental variables (IV) methods can be used for identification, with estimation proceeding either via fully parametric mixture models or two‐stage least squares (TSLS). TSLS is popular but can be problematic for binary outcomes where the estimand of interest is a causal odds ratio. Mixture models are rarely used in practice, perhaps because of their perceived complexity and need for specialist software. Here, we propose using multiple imputation (MI) to impute the latent compliance class appearing in the mixture models. Since such models include an interaction term between the latent compliance class and randomized treatment, we use “substantive model compatible” MI (SMC MIC), which can additionally handle missing data in outcomes and other variables in the model, before fitting the mixture models via maximum likelihood to the MI data sets and combining results via Rubin's rules. We use simulations to compare the performance of SMC MIC to existing approaches and also illustrate the methods by reanalyzing an RCT in UK primary health. We show that SMC MIC can be more efficient than full Bayesian estimation when auxiliary variables are incorporated, and is superior to two‐stage methods, especially for binary outcomes.
Rapid behavioral assay using handling test provides breed and sex differences in tameness of chickens
Authors: Moroi Saki , Nishimura Kenji , Imai Nana , Kunishige Kyoko , Sato Shun , Goto Tatsuhiko
Published: August 2019

Background

Japanese indigenous chicken breeds are often used to improve meat quality rather than broilers in the Jidori industry. There are sometimes severe crowding accidents caused by many birds frightened by environmental stimuli. To prevent the economic loss, the chickens need to be more gentle, tame, and imperturbable.

Methods

In this study, a new handling test for tameness in adult chickens in individual cages was performed with 100 birds from each sex of Shamo, Rhode Island Red, Nagoya, Australorp, and Ukokkei, as well as 10 hens of F1 hybrid between Shamo and Rhode Island Red, to measure both active and passive tameness. We counted the number heading toward human hands (heading) and retreating in other directions (avoiding) in both active and passive tameness phases, as well as the number of steps taken (step) during the handling test.

Results

Male chickens exhibited higher avoidance behavior than females. Nagoya females displayed the lowest level of avoidance behavior, which implies passive tameness. In terms of active tameness, a variety of phenotypes can be obtained in different combinations of breed and sex. These results suggested the handling test will be good method for rapid screening of individual differences in tameness. In addition, there were heterosis effects on avoidance and locomotive behaviors. Since F1 is often used in the Jidori industry, the breeders should be tested not only for meat production but also for tameness.

Conclusions

In the future, combining both the behavioral screening and the population genomics will establish typical evidence about mechanisms of tameness and domestication in animals.
The role of environmental innovation through the technological proximity in the implementation of the sustainable development
Authors: Aldieri Luigi , Kotsemir Maxim , Vinci Concetto Paolo
Published: August 2019

This paper explores the relationship between a firm's knowledge sourcing strategy and green innovation. The data are taken from Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development REGPAT database, February 2016, relative to the European Patent Office firms' patent applications published up to December 2015. The study contributes to the literature by focusing on the moderating role of integration between different activities related to environmental performance on the relationship between knowledge sources and green innovations. The results from 240 firms indicate a shift in the focus from internal knowledge to external knowledge when developing environmental innovations. Government policies promoting more knowledge complementarity and coordination between environmental fields will help to promote more knowledge transfer, allowing more sustainable development.
Phage display as a tool for vaccine and immunotherapy development
Authors: Hess Krystina L. , Jewell Christopher M.
Published: August 2019

Bacteriophages, or phages, are viruses that specifically infect bacteria and coopt the cellular machinery to create more phage proteins, eventually resulting in the release of new phage particles. Phages are heavily utilized in bioengineering for applications ranging from tissue engineering scaffolds to immune signal delivery. Of specific interest to vaccines and immunotherapies, phages have demonstrated an ability to activate both the innate and adaptive immune systems. The genome of these viral particles can be harnessed for DNA vaccination, or the surface proteins can be exploited for antigen display. More specifically, genes that encode an antigen of interest can be spliced into the phage genome, allowing antigenic proteins or peptides to be displayed by fusion to phage capsid proteins. Phages therefore present antigens to immune cells in a highly ordered and repetitive manner. This review discusses the use of phage with adjuvanting activity as antigen delivery vehicles for vaccination against infectious disease and cancer.
Effects of group psychotherapy on depressive and anxious symptoms, self‐esteem and social adaptation in college students
Authors: Mejías Juan A. , Jurado María M. , Tafoya Silvia A. , Romo Francisco , Sandoval José R. , Beltrán‐Hernández Lizbeth
Published: August 2019

Objective

To evaluate the changes in anxious and depressive symptomatology, self‐esteem and social adaptation in college students who attended group psychotherapy for 6 months.

Method

A quasi‐experimental, one‐group pretest–post‐test design was utilised. The effect of group psychotherapy on the symptoms of anxiety, depression, self‐esteem and social adjustment was evaluated in 41 college students, with depressive‐anxious disorders as principal diagnoses. For six months, they were treated with interactional‐type psychotherapy and with pharmacological treatment if necessary.

Results

Significant improvements were found in depressive symptoms (p = .0001), state anxiety (p = .001), self‐esteem evaluated with the Coopersmith Self‐Esteem Inventory (p = .039) and with the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale (p = .024) and social adaptation (p = .013). No effect was observed by gender or by adding pharmacological treatment.

Conclusions

Group psychotherapy may be useful in reducing depressive and anxious symptoms, and improving self‐esteem and social adaptation.
Tendon rupture associated with concomitant simvastatin and gemfibrozil use: Biological and pharmacokinetic implications
Authors: Cano Cevallos Edison Jose , Shaikh Danial Haris , Gonzalez Jose , Sanchez William , Patel Madanmohan
Published: August 2019

Tendon or muscle rupture is a rare complication of statins that could potentially be disabling and result in a significant burden to patients. The co‐administration of statin and gemfibrozil should warrant prescribers’ awareness of tendon‐related complications of statin use, particularly in high‐risk populations with poor renal function or musculoskeletal comorbidities.
LASSO‐based false‐positive selection for class‐imbalanced data in metabolomics
Authors: Fu Guang‐Hui , Yi Lun‐Zhao , Pan Jianxin
Published: August 2019

Feature selection and rebalancing can be seen as two preprocessing ways in class‐imbalanced learning. Recently, there have been many research achievements and applications on LASSO‐type feature selection, whereas most of them are not directly designed for addressing class‐imbalanced data. In this study, we proposed a LASSO‐based stable feature selection algorithm for class‐imbalanced data analysis, and false‐positive selection (FPS) under balanced and imbalanced situations was calculated via selection frequency of each predictor in doing stable selection. The results on simulation studies and real data examples show that class imbalance contributes to avoid overselection caused by LASSO when the data are highly correlated and a lower FPS can be obtained with class‐imbalanced data than balanced one in most of cases in the same settings. A statistical explanation was given for this phenomenon. In addition, it does not need to rebalance the class‐imbalanced data for performing such LASSO‐based feature selection with a stable strategy, and to some degree, intentionally disequilibrating the balanced data could be an alternative strategy to weaken overselection and to perform biomarker identification for finding a few of most important biomarkers.
Axially chiral N,N′‐dioxides ethers for catalysis in enantioselective allylation of aldehydes
Authors: Wu Shijie , Xing Yongfei , Wang Jie , Guo Xingchen , Zhu Huajie , Li Wan
Published: August 2019

A series of axially chiral ethers synthesized from biscarboline N,N′‐dioxides, (S)‐1a to (S)‐1n, was investigated in enantioselectivity addition reactions of allyltrichlorosilane with a series of substituted aldehydes, including bulky substituted aldehydes. High enantioselectivities (up to 96%ee) were achieved using the catalyst (S)‐1k at 1 mol % loading.
Improved chiral electrochemical recognition of tryptophan enantiomers based on three‐dimensional molecularly imprinted overoxidized polypyrrole/MnO2/carbon felt composites
Authors: Dong Lina , Liu Xuerui , Xu Hui , Wu Datong , Gao Shanmin , Zhong Linlin , Kong Yong
Published: August 2019

A three‐dimensional molecularly imprinted overoxidized polypyrrole/MnO2/carbon felt (MIOPPy/MnO2/CF) composites were fabricated, which results in increased active area of the surface of the molecularly imprinted polymers film and greatly improved electrochemical chiral recognition effect for tryptophan isomers. The composites were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, X‐ray diffractometer, UV‐visible spectra, N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherms, and electrochemical methods. The manuscript provides a proof of concept and shows promising potential of the prepared composites for chiral recognition.
Full Pre‐Steady‐State Kinetic Analysis of Single Nucleotide Incorporation by DNA Polymerases
Authors: Renders Marleen , Frère Jean‐Marie , Toye Dominique , Herdewijn Piet
Published: August 2019

By measuring a DNA polymerase incorporation reaction on a very short time scale (5 ms to 10 s) and with a high enzyme concentration, the isolated event of a single nucleotide incorporation can be analyzed. Practically, this is done using a quench‐flow instrument, which allows the rapid mixing of the enzyme‐primer/template with the nucleotide substrate, after which the reaction is quenched and analyzed. We describe how to titrate the enzyme active site, how to determine, via a scouting experiment, the rate‐limiting step in the polymerization reaction, and how to measure the apparent kpol, Kd(DNA), and Kd(N) using burst or single‐turnover experiments. We include equations for the calculation of the processivity of the polymerase, its nucleotide incorporation specificity and preference, and the activation energy difference for the incorporation of an incorrect nucleotide. Data analysis is discussed, as this is an essential part of accurate data generation in kinetic analyses. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The role and therapeutic implications of T cells in cancer of the lung
Authors: Neeve Samuel C , Robinson Bruce WS , Fear Vanessa S
Published: August 2019

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer‐related death worldwide. The disease is classified into two major subtypes, small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) and the more prevalent non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). First‐line conventional therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, have offered limited benefit, and patient prognosis remains poor with post‐treatment recurrences representing a major cause of morbidity. Consequently, there is an urgent need for improved therapeutic options. Historically, NSCLC has been considered a non‐immunogenic disease. However, increased understanding of tumor‐immune interactions has challenged this paradigm in both lung and other malignancies, with cancer elimination by tumor‐specific T cells increasingly well described in a myriad of solid tumors. Recent evidence has demonstrated that absent or weak anticancer responses are likely a product of tumor‐derived immunosuppression. This knowledge, along with a greater appreciation for the role of T cells in lung cancer elimination, has driven development of novel immunotherapeutic approaches which are demonstrating remarkable clinical efficacy. This review examines the role of T cells in lung cancer, discussing the direction and clinical significance of current and future immunotherapeutic strategies.
Impaired brain endocannabinoid tone in the activity‐based model of anorexia nervosa
Authors: Collu Roberto , Scherma Maria , Piscitelli Fabiana , Giunti Elisa , Satta Valentina , Castelli M. Paola , Verde Roberta , Fratta Walter , Bisogno Tiziana , Fadda Paola
Published: August 2019

Objective

Despite the growing knowledge on the functional relationship between an altered endocannabinoid (eCB) system and development of anorexia nervosa (AN), to date no studies have investigated the central eCB tone in the activity‐based anorexia (ABA) model that reproduces key aspects of human AN.

Method

We measured levels of two major eCBs, anandamide (AEA) and 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (2‐AG), those of two eCB‐related lipids, oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), and the cannabinoid type‐1 receptor (CB1R) density in the brain of female ABA rats, focusing on areas involved in homeostatic and rewarding‐related regulation of feeding behavior (i.e., prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens, caudato putamen, amygdala, hippocampus and hypothalamus). Analysis was carried out also at the end of recovery from the ABA condition.

Results

At the end of the ABA induction phase, 2‐AG was significantly decreased in ABA rats in different brain areas but not in the caudato putamen. No changes were detected in AEA levels in any region, whereas the levels of OEA and PEA were decreased exclusively in the hippocampus and hypothalamus. Furthermore, CB1R density was decreased in the dentate gyrus of hippocampus and in the lateral hypothalamus. After recovery, both 2‐AG levels and CB1R density were partially normalized in some areas. In contrast, AEA levels became markedly reduced in all the analyzed areas.

Discussion

These data demonstrate an altered brain eCB tone in ABA rats, further supporting the involvement of an impaired eCB system in AN pathophysiology that may contribute to the maintenance of some symptomatic aspects of the disease.
Post‐Pleistocene differentiation in a Central Interior Highlands endemic salamander
Authors: Burkhart Jacob J. , Puckett Emily E. , Beringer Chelsey J. , Sholy Christine N. , Semlitsch Raymond D. , Eggert Lori S.
Published: August 2019

Aim

For many endemic species with limited dispersal capacities, the relationship between landscape changes and species distributions is still unclear. We characterized the population structure of the endemic ringed salamander (Ambystoma annulatum) across its distribution in the Central Interior Highlands (CIH) of North America, an area of high species endemism, to infer the ecological and evolutionary history of the species.

Methods

We sampled 498 individuals across the species distribution and characterized the population genetic structure using nuclear microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) markers.

Results

Ambystoma annulatum exist in two strongly supported nuclear genetic clusters across the CIH that correspond to a northern cluster that includes the Missouri Ozark populations and a southern cluster that includes the Arkansas and Oklahoma Ozarks and the Ouachita Mountains. Our demographic models estimated that these populations diverged approximately 2,700 years ago. Pairwise estimates of genetic differentiation at microsatellite and mtDNA markers indicated limited contemporary gene flow and suggest that genetic differentiation was primarily influenced by changes in the post‐Pleistocene landscape of the CIH.

Main Conclusions

Both the geologic history and post‐European settlement history of the CIH have influenced the population genetic structure of A. annulatum. The low mtDNA diversity suggests a retraction into and expansion out of refugial areas in the south‐central Ozarks, during temperature fluctuations of the Pleistocene and Holocene epochs. Similarly, the estimated divergence time for the two nuclear clusters corresponds to changes in the post‐Pleistocene landscape. More recently, decreased A. annulatum gene flow may be a result of increased habitat fragmentation and alteration post‐European settlement.
Corrosion Behavior of Bitter Almond Oil During Processing
Authors: Mao Xiaohui , Zhu Hailan , Zhao Zhong , Yu Xiuzhu
Published: August 2019

This study aims to explore the corrosion behavior of bitter almond oil (BAO) during processing. Hydrocyanic acid (HCN) and benzoic acid in oil are speculated as the main components that corrode the screw oil expeller. Immersion and simulation corrosion tests are carried out to verify this hypothesis. Immersion test results show that crude BAO (CBAO) containing 5.07 ± 0.06 mg kg−1 benzoic acid and 4.25 ± 0.04 mg kg−1 HCN exhibits corrosive effects on steel. Simulation corrosion test results indicate that the addition of CN− or benzoic acid has significant effect on the corrosion of steel. Specifically, at ≥1 × 104 mg kg−1 benzoic acid concentration or ≥5 mg kg−1 CN− concentration, the mass of steel blocks in oil decreases and the contents of Fe, Zn, Al, and Mg ions in oil increase significantly. Therefore, HCN in CBAO is the main cause of screw oil expeller corrosion in BAO processing and benzoic acid is the secondary cause.

Practical Applications: The corrosion behavior of CBAO not only damages the integrity of the screw oil expeller but also increases the dissolution of toxic metals from the components into oil. The study of corrosion has practical value in taking effective measures, such as detoxification before pressing and addition of natural inhibitors, to reduce corrosion and ensure the quality of CBAO. Corrosion study provides the basis for the selection of steel materials of screw oil expeller.
Theoretical considerations while applying sweep frequency response analysis method in determining the interwinding capacitance of power transformers at higher frequencies
Authors: Arumugam Saravanakumar
Published: August 2019

This paper systematically investigates on theoretical and practical aspects of frequency response analysis method in evaluating the dielectric integrity of transformers. Current practices focus on interwinding capacitances as they contain sensitive diagnostic information of transformer windings, magnetic core, and insulation. However, these procedures are inadequate as they are experience based, frequency limited, and overlook the electromagnetic influence of winding core during interwinding capacitance measurements. Corresponding interpretations are subjective and require an expert's decision. Clearly, a method based on trials and involving subjective analysis procedures may render inaccurate and unreliable results. On contrary, if the influence of winding core is minimized, then the high‐frequency cutoff limit can be widened, and the interwinding capacitances can be accurately determined. Presumably, the influence of winding core can be minimized via careful selection of terminal connection, system function pair. For this purpose, resistance‐capacitance and ladder network models describing the impulse behavior of winding‐insulation‐core of transformers are simulated. A suitable terminal connection, system function pair that minimizes the influence of winding‐core is identified. Subsequently, the sensitivity of the proposed method and the accuracy of interwinding capacitance measured are ascertained through comparative analysis and experimentally verified on model coils and transformers. Pertinent interpretations are objective and reveal the sensitive diagnostic information of transformers.
Deployment of a stand‐alone hybrid renewable energy system in coastal areas as a reliable energy source
Authors: Kasaeian Alibakhsh , Razmjoo Armin , Shirmohammadi Reza , Pourfayaz Fathollah , Sumper Andreas
Published: August 2019

Solar and wind can be considered as sustainable environmentally friendly and omnipresent renewable energy sources for generating a part of required electrical energy for inhabitants of the remote areas in different countries. Accordingly, this study investigates the techno‐economic evaluation for two‐hybrid renewable energy systems for Bandar Dayyer. The findings of this study shows that using the HOMER software, the total amount of electricity production by these systems are equal to 470,176 kW, of which 22,409 kW is provided by PV‐generic system and 447,767 kW is supplied by PV‐diesel‐generic system. It should be mentioned that this area has an appropriate potential of wind speed and solar radiation; therefore, the area can be suitable for investing on a hybrid renewable energy site.
Plants in the city: understanding recruitment dynamics in urban landscapes
Authors: Piana Max R , Aronson Myla FJ , Pickett Steward TA , Handel Steven N
Published: August 2019

In cities, naturally regenerating plant populations are critical in sustaining both ecological function and ecosystem services. However, scientists have a limited understanding of the urban ecosystem conditions and stressors that influence basic life‐history processes and constraints for plant populations. Here, we synthesize current research on the recruitment dynamics of urban plants (processes associated with adding individuals to populations) and present a conceptual framework for urban recruitment limitation. From grasslands to forests, and from natural to constructed habitats, multiple urban drivers – including climate, land‐cover change, pollution, and biotic invasions – affect plant recruitment. These drivers often interact, and their effects are frequently species‐, habitat‐, or region‐specific. Furthering a “mechanistic” understanding (one that focuses on the underlying ecological mechanisms of observed phenomena) of how these drivers alter plant population dynamics will improve the conservation, management, and restoration of urban greenspaces.
Side‐swiped: ecological cascades emanating from earthworm invasions
Authors: Frelich Lee E , Blossey Bernd , Cameron Erin K , Dávalos Andrea , Eisenhauer Nico , Fahey Timothy , Ferlian Olga , Groffman Peter M , Larson Evan , Loss Scott R , Maerz John C , Nuzzo Victoria , Yoo Kyungsoo , Reich Peter B
Published: August 2019

Non‐native, invasive earthworms are altering soils throughout the world. Ecological cascades emanating from these invasions stem from rapid consumption of leaf litter by earthworms. This occurs at a midpoint in the trophic pyramid, unlike the more familiar bottom‐up or top‐down cascades. These cascades cause fundamental changes (“microcascade effects”) in soil morphology, bulk density, and nutrient leaching, and a shift to warmer, drier soil surfaces with a loss of leaf litter. In North American temperate and boreal forests, microcascade effects can affect carbon sequestration, disturbance regimes, soil and water quality, forest productivity, plant communities, and wildlife habitat, and can facilitate other invasive species. These broader‐scale changes (“macrocascade effects”) are of greater concern to society. Interactions among these fundamental changes and broader‐scale effects create “cascade complexes” that interact with climate change and other environmental processes. The diversity of cascade effects, combined with the vast area invaded by earthworms, leads to regionally important changes in ecological functioning.
Proactive inhibition deficits with normal perfusion after pediatric mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Mayer Andrew R. , Stephenson David D. , Wertz Christopher J. , Dodd Andrew B. , Shaff Nicholas A. , Ling Josef M. , Park Grace , Oglesbee Scott J. , Wasserott Ben C. , Meier Timothy B. , Witkiewitz Katie , Campbell Richard A. , Yeo Ronald A. , Phillips John P. , Quinn Davin K. , Pottenger Amy
Published: August 2019

Although much attention has been generated in popular media regarding the deleterious effects of pediatric mild traumatic brain injury (pmTBI), a paucity of empirical evidence exists regarding the natural course of biological recovery. Fifty pmTBI patients (12–18 years old) were consecutively recruited from Emergency Departments and seen approximately 1 week and 4 months post‐injury in this prospective cohort study. Data from 53 sex‐ and age‐matched healthy controls (HC) were also collected. Functional magnetic resonance imaging was obtained during proactive response inhibition and at rest, in conjunction with independent measures of resting cerebral blood flow. High temporal resolution imaging enabled separate modeling of neural responses for preparation and execution of proactive response inhibition. A priori predictions of failed inhibitory responses (i.e., hyperactivation) were observed in motor circuitry (pmTBI>HC) and sensory areas sub‐acutely and at 4 months post‐injury. Paradoxically, pmTBI demonstrated hypoactivation (HC>pmTBI) during target processing, along with decreased activation within prefrontal cognitive control areas. Functional connectivity within motor circuitry at rest suggested that deficits were limited to engagement during the inhibitory task, whereas normal resting cerebral perfusion ruled out deficits in basal perfusion. In conclusion, current results suggest blood oxygen‐level dependent deficits during inhibitory control may exceed commonly held beliefs about physiological recovery following pmTBI, potentially lasting up to 4 months post‐injury.
Stria terminalis, amygdala, and temporoparietal junction networks facilitate efficient emotion processing under expectations
Authors: Dzafic Ilvana , Oestreich Lena , Martin Andrew K. , Mowry Bryan , Burianová Hana
Published: August 2019

Rapid emotion processing is an ecologically essential ability for survival in social environments in which threatening or advantageous encounters dynamically and rapidly occur. Efficient emotion recognition is subserved by different processes, depending on one's expectations; however, the underlying functional and structural circuitry is still poorly understood. In this study, we delineate brain networks that subserve fast recognition of emotion in situations either congruent or incongruent with prior expectations. For this purpose, we used multimodal neuroimaging and investigated performance on a dynamic emotion perception task. We show that the extended amygdala structural and functional networks relate to speed of emotion processing under threatening conditions. Specifically, increased microstructure of the right stria terminalis, an amygdala white‐matter pathway, was related to faster detection of emotion during actual presentation of anger or after cueing anger. Moreover, functional connectivity of right amygdala with limbic regions was related to faster detection of anger congruent with cue, suggesting selective attention to threat. On the contrary, we found that faster detection of anger incongruent with cue engaged the ventral attention “reorienting” network. Faster detection of happiness, in either expectancy context, engaged a widespread frontotemporal‐subcortical functional network. These findings shed light on the functional and structural circuitries that facilitate speed of emotion recognition and, for the first time, elucidate a role for the stria terminalis in human emotion processing.
Socio‐economic inequalities in diabetes prevalence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al‐Hanawi Mohammed Khaled , Chirwa Gowokani Chijere , Pulok Mohammad Habibullah
Published: August 2019

Background

Rising prevalence of non‐communicable diseases, including diabetes in the Middle East, is a major public health concern of the 21st century. However, there is a paucity of literature to understand and measure socio‐economic inequalities in diabetes prevalence in this region, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

Methods

This study investigated socio‐economic inequalities in diabetes prevalence in the KSA using data from the Saudi Arabia Health Interview Survey. Concentration curve, concentration index, and multivariate logistic regression were used to measure and examine income‐ and education‐related inequalities in diabetes prevalence.

Results

The results showed significant socio‐economic inequalities in the prevalence of diabetes through analysing a nationally representative sample of the KSA population. Diabetes prevalence was concentrated among the poor and among people with less education. In addition, education‐related inequality was higher than income‐related inequality.

Conclusions

The findings of this study are important for policymakers to combat both the increasing prevalence of and socio‐economic inequalities in diabetes. The government should promote health education programmes and increase the level of public awareness of diabetes management, especially among the lower educated population in the KSA.
Dacarbazine alone or associated with melanoma‐bearing cancer pain model induces painful hypersensitivity by TRPA1 activation in mice
Authors: Brusco Indiara , Li Puma Simone , Chiepe Kelly Braga , da Silva Brum Evelyne , de David Antoniazzi Caren Tatiane , de Almeida Amanda Spring , Camponogara Camila , Silva Cássia Regina , De Logu Francesco , de Andrade Vanessa Moraes , Ferreira Juliano , Geppetti Pierangelo , Nassini Romina , Oliveira Sara Marchesan , Trevisan Gabriela
Published: August 2019

Antineoplastic therapy has been associated with pain syndrome development characterized by acute and chronic pain. The chemotherapeutic agent dacarbazine, used mainly to treat metastatic melanoma, is reported to cause painful symptoms, compromising patient quality of life. Evidence has proposed that transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) plays a critical role in chemotherapy‐induced pain syndrome. Here, we investigated whether dacarbazine causes painful hypersensitivity in naive or melanoma‐bearing mice and the involvement of TRPA1 in these models. Mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and human TRPA1‐transfected HEK293 (hTRPA1‐HEK293) cells were used to evaluate the TRPA1‐mediated calcium response evoked by dacarbazine. Mechanical and cold allodynia were evaluated after acute or repeated dacarbazine administration in naive mice or after inoculation of B16‐F10 melanoma cells in C57BL/6 mice. TRPA1 involvement was investigated by using pharmacological and genetic tools (selective antagonist or antisense oligonucleotide treatment and Trpa1 knockout mice). Dacarbazine directly activated TRPA1 in hTRPA1‐HEK293 cells and mouse DRG neurons and appears to sensitize TRPA1 indirectly by generating oxidative stress products. Moreover, dacarbazine caused mechanical and cold allodynia in naive but not Trpa1 knockout mice. Also, dacarbazine‐induced nociception was reduced by the pharmacological TRPA1 blockade (antagonism), antioxidants, and by ablation of TRPA1 expression. TRPA1 pharmacological blockade also reduced dacarbazine‐induced nociception in a tumor‐associated pain model. Thus, dacarbazine causes nociception by TRPA1 activation, indicating that this receptor may represent a pharmacological target for treating chemotherapy‐induced pain syndrome in cancer patients submitted to antineoplastic treatment with dacarbazine.