bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IL‐1 induces p62/SQSTM1 and autophagy in ERα+/PR+ BCa cell lines concomitant with ERα and PR repression, conferring an ERα−/PR− BCa‐like phenotype
Authors: Nawas Afshan Fathima , Mistry Ragini , Narayanan Shrinath , Thomas‐Jardin Shayna Elizabeth , Ramachandran Janani , Ravichandran Jananisree , Neduvelil Ebin , Luangpanh Krisha , Delk Nikki Ayanna
Published: October 2018

Estrogen receptor α (ERα)low/− tumors are associated with breast cancer (BCa) endocrine resistance, where ERα low tumors show a poor prognosis and a molecular profile similar to triple negative BCa tumors. Interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) downregulates ERα accumulation in BCa cell lines, yet the cells can remain viable. In kind, IL‐1 and ERα show inverse accumulation in BCa patient tumors and IL‐1 is implicated in BCa progression. IL‐1 represses the androgen receptor hormone receptor in prostate cancer cells concomitant with the upregulation of the prosurvival, autophagy‐related protein, Sequestome‐1 (p62/SQSTM1; hereinafter, p62); and given their similar etiology, we hypothesized that IL‐1 also upregulates p62 in BCa cells concomitant with hormone receptor repression. To test our hypothesis, BCa cell lines were exposed to conditioned medium from IL‐1‐secreting bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs), IL‐1, or IL‐1 receptor antagonist. Cells were analyzed for the accumulation of ERα, progesterone receptor (PR), p62, or the autophagosome membrane protein, microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), and for p62‐LC3 interaction. We found that IL‐1 is sufficient to mediate BMSC‐induced ERα and PR repression, p62 and autophagy upregulation, and p62‐LC3 interaction in ERα+/PR+ BCa cell lines. However, IL‐1 does not significantly elevate the high basal p62 accumulation or high basal autophagy in the ERα−/PR− BCa cell lines. Thus, our observations imply that IL‐1 confers a prosurvival ERα−/PR− molecular phenotype in ERα+/PR+ BCa cells that may be dependent on p62 function and autophagy and may underlie endocrine resistance.
MicroRNA‐328 ameliorates oxidized low‐density lipoprotein‐induced endothelial cells injury through targeting HMGB1 in atherosclerosis
Authors: Wu Chun‐Yang , Zhou Zhao‐Feng , Wang Bin , Ke Zun‐Ping , Ge Zhong‐Chun , Zhang Xian‐Jin
Published: October 2018

Atherosclerosis has been recognized as a chronic inflammatory disease, which can harden the vessel wall and narrow the arteries. MicroRNAs exhibit crucial roles in various diseases including atherosclerosis. However, so far, the role of miR‐328 in atherosclerosis remains barely explored. Therefore, our study concentrated on the potential role of miR‐328 in vascular endothelial cell injury during atherosclerosis. In our current study, we observed that oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL)‐induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) apoptosis and inhibited cell viability dose‐dependently and time‐dependently. In addition, indicated dosage of ox‐LDL obviously triggered HUVECs inflammation and oxidative stress process. Then, it was found that miR‐328 in HUVECs was reduced by ox‐LDL. HUVECs apoptosis was greatly repressed and cell survival was significantly upregulated by overexpression of miR‐328. Furthermore, mimics of miR‐328 rescued cell inflammation and oxidative stress process induced by ox‐LDL. Oppositely, inhibitors of miR‐328 strongly promoted ox‐LDL‐induced endothelial cells injury in HUVECs. By using bioinformatics analysis, high‐mobility group box‐1 (HMGB1) was predicted as a downstream target of miR‐328. HMGB1 has been reported to be involved in atherosclerosis development. The correlation between miR‐328 and HMGB1 was validated in our current study. Taken these together, it was implied that miR‐328 ameliorated ox‐LDL‐induced endothelial cells injury through targeting HMGB1 in atherosclerosis.
Long noncoding RNA MEG3 play an important role in osteosarcoma development through sponging microRNAs
Authors: Jiang Ming , Wang Yi‐Ran , Xu Nan , Zhou Liyang , An Qing
Published: October 2018

More and more evidence indicate long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) to indirectly regulate messenger RNAs (mRNAs) by acting as microRNA (miRNA) sponges, which represents a novel layer of gene regulation that plays a critical role in the development of cancers. However, functional roles and regulatory mechanisms of lncRNA‐mediated ceRNAs network in osteosarcoma are still largely unknown. Here, we comprehensively compared the expression profiles of mRNAs, lncRNAs, and miRNAs between osteosarcoma and normal samples from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) to elaborate related latent mechanisms. Two lncRNAs, ie, LINC01560 and MEG3, were identified to be aberrantly expressed. Importantly, MEG3 was considered as a promising diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for patients with osteosarcoma according to the Kaplan‐Meier analysis of another independent osteosarcoma data set from the Cancer Genome Atlas (P = 0.05). Eventually, we successfully established a dysregulated lncRNA‐related ceRNA network, including one osteosarcoma‐specific lncRNA, three miRNAs and four mRNAs. In conclusion, this study should be beneficial for improving our understanding of the lncRNA‐mediated ceRNA regulatory mechanisms in the pathogenesis of osteosarcoma and providing it with novel candidate diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers.
Anti‐inflammatory response to acute exercise is related with intensity and physical fitness
Authors: Antunes Barbara Moura , Campos Eduardo Zapaterra , dos Santos Ronaldo Vagner Thomatieli , Rosa‐Neto José Cesar , Franchini Emerson , Bishop Nicolette C. , Lira Fábio Santos
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The relationship between inflammatory markers and energetic metabolism has been explored. However, the relationship between exercise intensity and fitness status is unclear, and it is necessary to understand this relationship to apply specific exercise guidance. The purpose of the study was to analyze metabolic and inflammatory responses imposed by acute exercise sessions performed at moderate, heavy, and severe intensities and their relationship with the physical fitness status.

Methods

Nineteen healthy male volunteers performed three acute exercise sessions until exhaustion or up to 60 minutes on a cycle ergometer at moderate (90% of first ventilatory threshold [VT1]), heavy (midpoint between VT1 and second ventilatory threshold [VT2]), and severe (midpoint between VT2 and maximal aerobic power) intensities. Blood lactate, glucose, NEFA, endotoxin, and cytokines were determined for each exercise session. Peripheral and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated release of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐6, and IL‐10 was analyzed before, after, and 60 minutes after sessions.

Results

In peripheral blood, severe intensity increased lactate, endotoxin, and TNF‐α immediately after exercise and glucose at 60 min after exercise. There was a trend for IL‐10 increase at 60 minutes after exercise in peripheral blood. Immediately after exercise, LPS‐stimulated TNF‐α, IL‐6, IL‐6/IL‐10 ratio, and lactate levels were higher in the severe intensity while nonester fatty acid levels decreased at this time. At 60 minute after exercise, higher concentrations of glucose and a trend for increased IL‐10 were observed in severe intensity. A positive correlation was observed between maximal aerobic power and IL‐10 (
r = 0.513;
P = 0.042), and negative correlations between maximal aerobic power and endotoxin (
r = −0.531;
P = 0.034) and lactate (
r = −0.538;
P = 0.031) in heavy intensity.

Conclusion

Our data show a novel finding that higher cytokine responses occur at higher intensities, mainly in severe intensity. However, the anti‐inflammatory (IL‐10) response was physical fitness–dependent.
Mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis was induced by oleuropein in H1299 cells involving activation of p38 MAP kinase
Authors: Wang Wang , Wu Jibing , Zhang Qingyan , Li Xue , Zhu Xixi , Wang Qiuying , Cao Shasha , Du Linfang
Published: October 2018

Lung cancer is the main health threat in the world. Recently, oleuropein has been reported to have potent antioxidant and anticancer activities. However, the antitumor effects of oleuropein on H1299 cells are not well understood. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is tantamount to explore the effects of oleuropein on H1299 cells and its underlying mechanism that may be involved. Oleuropein treatment in H1299 cells resulted in cell cycle distribution at G2/M arrest and apoptosis in a dose‐dependent manner. Mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis was verified by the increase in Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio, release of cytochrome
c, and activation of caspase‐3 on oleuropein‐induced H1299 cells. In addition, our data also demonstrated that the p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway has a critical role in oleuropein‐induced apoptosis. Moreover, we used transcriptome analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in H1299 cells by oleuropein and SB203580 treatment. Many DEGs were annotated to metabolic pathways, cell cycle, pathways in cancer, MAPK signaling pathway by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and Gene ontology enrichment methods. Network and expression analysis found that DEGs, including
RPS6A5,
GADD45A, and
MKP, play a key role in the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. In H1299 cells, oleuropein resulted in the expression of numerous genes related to cell signaling, metabolism pathway and directly associated with apoptosis. These results illustrated that oleuropein‐induced apoptosis via mitochondrial apoptotic cascade was activated by the p38 MAPK signaling pathway in H1299 cells. Thus, oleuropein as a natural compound and therapeutic drug has potential application value in the treatment of lung cancer.
Development and optimization of a novel process of double‐effect distillation with vapor recompression for bioethanol recovery and vapor permeation for bioethanol dehydration
Authors: Singh Ashish , Rangaiah Gade P
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Bioethanol, an important biofuel, obtained from biomass fermentation is dilute and unsuitable for direct use as fuel for transportation. Its recovery and dehydration to ∼99.5 wt% ethanol is energy‐intensive because of dilute feed (∼10 wt% ethanol) and occurrence of ethanol–water azeotrope. From an energy efficiency perspective, hybrid separation processes consisting of a membrane‐based module coupled with distillation are a promising alternative to conventional separation by distillation alone.

RESULTS

The present article proposes the novel process of double‐effect distillation with vapor recompression (DED) for bioethanol recovery followed by vapor permeation (VP) for bioethanol dehydration (to 99.8 wt% ethanol) from a ternary feed of ethanol (10 wt%), water (89.9 wt%) and CO2 (0.1 wt%) and compares it with the process of simple distillation followed by vapor permeation (D‐VP). Multi‐objective optimization is performed for both processes, and the obtained Pareto‐optimal solutions for minimizing fixed capital investment and annual operating cost are presented and discussed. Compared with the optimal D‐VP process, the optimal DED‐VP process is found to be better, with 17 and 11% savings in energy consumption and total annual cost (TAC) respectively.

CONCLUSION

Specific energy consumption (SEC) of the DED‐VP process is 5% lower than that of the hybrid process of distillation for recovery followed by pressure swing adsorption for dehydration (D‐PSA) used industrially. Continued developments in membranes that can provide high permeance, selectivity and/or operating life can further reduce TAC and SEC of the DED‐VP process. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Piperazine‐Azole‐Fluoroquinolone Based 1,2,4‐Triazole Derivatives
Authors: Basoglu Ozdemir Serap , Demirbas Neslihan , Demirbas Ahmet , Ayaz Faik Ahmet , Çolak Nesrin
Published: October 2018

Azole derivatives (10a–f) obtained starting from 1‐(4‐fluorohenyl)piperazine were converted to the corresponding Mannich bases (7a–d, 12a,b, and 16a,b) containing β‐lactame or flouroquinolone core via a one‐pot three‐component reaction. The synthesis of conazole analogues was carried out starting from triazole by three steps. Reactions were carried out under conventional‐mediated and microwave‐mediated conditions. All the newly synthesized compounds were screened for their antimicrobial, antioxidant activity, and most of them displayed good–moderate activity.
About the First Stable α‐Lactam with a Secondary Alkyl Substituent in Position Three: 3‐Isopropyl‐1‐triphenylmethylaziridinone
Authors: Benitez Michael , Wang Yun Dan , Lengyel Istvan , Fitzsimmons Matthew , Cesare Victor
Published: October 2018

A three‐step synthesis, characterization, pyrolysis, the thermal decomposition products, and three reactions of 3‐isopropyl‐1‐triphenylmethylaziridinone are described. This is the first stable α‐lactam with a secondary alkyl substituent in position three.
Isolation and characterization of kurstakin and surfactin isoforms produced by Enterobacter cloacae C3 strain
Authors: Jemil Nawel , Hmidet Noomen , Manresa Angeles , Rabanal Francesc , Nasri Moncef
Published: October 2018

In this work, the extraction, structural analysis, and identification as well as antimicrobial, anti‐adhesive, and antibiofilm activities of lipopeptides produced by Enterobacter cloacae C3 strain were studied. A combination of chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques offers opportunities for a better characterization of the biosurfactant structure. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) and HPLC for amino acid composition determination are used. Efficient spectroscopic techniques have been utilized for investigations on the biochemical structure of biosurfactants, such as Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy and mass spectrometry analysis. This is the first work describing the production of different isoforms belonging to kurstakin and surfactin families by E cloacae strain. Three kurstakin homologues differing by the fatty acid chain length from C10 to C12 were detected. The spectrum of lipopeptides belonging to surfactin family contains various isoforms differing by the fatty acid chain length as well as the amino acids at positions four and seven. Lipopeptide C3 extract exhibited important antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, antifungal activity, and interesting anti‐adhesive and disruptive properties against biofilm formation by human pathogenic bacterial strains: Salmonella typhimurium, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Candida albicans.
Dry events in the winter in Israel and its linkage to synoptic and large‐scale circulations
Authors: Saaroni Hadas , Ziv Baruch , Harpaz Tzvi , Lempert Judith
Published: October 2018

Dry spells during the rainy season have a far‐reaching environmental impact in the Levant. A previous study by Saaroni et al. investigated prolonging dry spells (PDSs) and classified them subjectively into three types: “subtropical,” “baroclinic” and “polar.” They developed quantitative indices to identify each type. The present study analyses dry events, both individual days and spells, based on the above classification. We found that the indices identifying PDS types are effective for distinguishing among individual dry days of the three types, but not as precursors of dry days. However, when the indices keep positive for 2 or 3 days consecutively, they become effective precursors of dry spells.

An alternative, automatic classification, using the K‐means technique, yielded classes similar to those defined subjectively. The analysis revealed the dominance of the “baroclinic” type and the tendency of “subtropical” type to become “baroclinic.” Composite maps of cyclone tracks which were derived for days belonging to each type showed track distributions characteristic to particular types. For every type, the evolution of dry spells was studied through composite maps of 500‐hPa geopotential height (GPH) anomaly. The maps were derived for 1–3 days preceding the event.

Pronounced patterns were identified as precursors of specific dry spell types; positive anomaly over Canada and Greenland, combined with negative anomaly over northwest Europe turned out as precursors of “baroclinic” and “subtropical” events, whereas the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), in its positive phase, was found as an exclusive precursor of the “polar” type.

All three types of dry days are characterized by an offshore lower‐level wind, and by an absence of Cyprus Lows, due to deflection of cyclone tracks away from the Middle East. This implies that dry conditions in the Levant are caused by both thermodynamic (mesoscale) and dynamic (synoptic scale) factors.
A 19th century daily surface pressure series for the Southwestern Cape region of South Africa: 1834–1899
Authors: Picas Jessica , Grab Stefan , Allan Rob
Published: October 2018

The first daily mean sea‐level pressure (MSLP) series for the Southwestern Cape region of South Africa is presented for the 19th century, and is one of the longest and oldest for the Southern Hemisphere. Sub‐daily barometer readings from the South African Astronomical Observatory were digitized, together with temperature readings, and extend over the period 1834–1899. Pressure readings were recorded using mercury barometers and so needed to be corrected and reduced to standard conditions. Overall, austral winter (June, July, August) has the highest mean monthly MSLP values, symptomatic of the ridging anticyclones during this season. The year 1862 stands out with particularly low MSLP values and has 27 days during austral winter that were below the 10th percentile. This most likely indicates that the winter of 1862 experienced the highest number of passing cold fronts throughout the 66‐year study period.
ROS Is Involved in Disruption of Tight Junctions of Human Nasal Epithelial Cells Induced by HRV16
Authors: Kim Kyeong Ah , Jung Joo Hyun , Kang Il Gyu , Choi Yun Sook , Kim Seon Tae
Published: October 2018

Objective

Rhinoviruses (RV), which are responsible for the majority of common colds, induce mucus overproduction, increased vascular permeability, and secondary bacterial infection. These symptoms are primarily caused by barrier function disruption, which is controlled by intercellular junctions. In this study, we investigated whether reactive oxygen species (ROS) are closely involved in tight junction disruption of primary human nasal epithelial (HNE) cells induced by infection of RV .

Methods and Results

Incubation with RV resulted in disruption of tight junction proteins (ZO‐1, E‐cadherin, claudin‐1, and occludin) in HNE cells. Pretreatment with diphenylene iodonium (DPI) decreased RV‐induced disruption of tight junction in HNE cells. RV‐induced generation of ROS was diminished by DPI. However, rotenone was not inhibited in HNE cells following incubation with RV. Rhinoviruses resulted in a marked decrease in protein phosphatases activity and an increase in protein tyrosine phosphorylation levels in HNE cells. Diphenylene iodonium inhibited the RV‐induced inactivation of phosphatases and phosphorylation of protein tyrosine. In addition, inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatases with phenylarsine oxide resulted in a marked decrease in protein phosphatase activity and disruption of tight junction proteins in HNE cells.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that ROS‐mediated inhibition of phosphatases plays a crucial role in disruption of tight junctions in HNE cells by RV. The data suggest that RV infection may damage nasal epithelial barrier function.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 128:E393–E401, 2018
Familial unilateral vestibular schwannoma is rarely caused by inherited variants in the NF2 gene
Authors: Evans D. Gareth , Wallace Andrew J. , Hartley Claire , Freeman Simon R. , Lloyd Simon K. , Thomas Owen , Axon Patrick , Hammerbeck‐Ward Charlotte L. , Pathmanaban Omar , Rutherford Scott A. , Kellett Mark , Laitt Roger , King Andrew T. , Bischetsrieder Jemma , Blakeley Jaishri , Smith Miriam J.
Published: October 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Unilateral vestibular schwannoma (VS) occurs with a lifetime risk of around 1 in 1,000 and is due to inactivation of the NF2 gene, either somatically or from a constitutional mutation. It has been postulated that familial occurrence of unilateral VS occurs more frequently than by chance, but no causal mechanism has been confirmed.

Study Design

Retrospective database analysis.

Methods

The likelihood of chance occurrence of unilateral VS, or occurring in the context of neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), was assessed using national UK audit data and data from the national NF2 database. Families with familial unilateral VS (occurrence in first‐ and second‐degree relatives) were assessed for constitutional NF2 and LZTR1 genetic variants, and where possible the tumor was also analyzed.

Results

Approximately 1,000 cases of unilateral VS occurred annually in the United Kingdom between 2013 and 2016. Of these, 2.5 may be expected to have a first‐degree relative who had previously developed a unilateral VS. The likelihood of this occurring in NF2 was considered to be as low as 0.05 annually. None of 28 families with familial unilateral VS had a constitutional NF2 intragenic variant, and in nine cases where the VS was analyzed, both mutational events in NF2 were identified and excluded from the germline. Only three variants of uncertain significance were found in LZTR1.

Conclusions

Familial occurrence of unilateral VS is very unlikely to be due to a constitutional NF2 or definitely pathogenic LZTR1 variant. The occurrence of unilateral VS in two or more first‐degree relatives is likely due to chance. This phenomenon may well increase in clinical practice with increasing use of cranial magnetic resonance imaging in older patients.

Level of Evidence

2b Laryngoscope, 129:967–973, 2019
Forage grass cultivation increases soil organic carbon and nitrogen pools in a karst region, southwest China
Authors: Li Dejun , Liu Jing , Chen Hao , Zheng Liang , Wen Li , Wang Kelin
Published: October 2018

Whether conservation agriculture systems can increase soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) pools remains unresolved. We measured SOC and TN pools in maize–soybean rotation fields and three types of conservation agriculture systems with mature forests being selected for comparison in southwest China's karst areas. The three types of conservation agriculture systems were fields of mulberry, forage grass, and sugarcane. The objective was mainly to evaluate whether replacement of maize–soybean fields by the other three types of agricultural fields would significantly increase SOC and TN pools. Across the 0–30 cm soil profile, SOC and TN pools were not significantly higher in the mulberry and sugarcane fields than in the maize–soybean fields (47.42 ± 6.34 Mg C ha−1 and 5.47 ± 0.49 Mg N ha−1). Nevertheless, SOC and TN pools in the forage grass fields (74.12 ± 5.30 Mg C ha−1 and 7.09 ± 0.41 Mg N ha−1) were higher by 56.3 and 29.4% relative to the maize–soybean fields, but were lower by 38.3% and 21.8% compared to the forests, respectively. Microbial biomass C (MBC) and N (MBN) concentrations varied in similar patterns as SOC and TN pools. The MBC:SOC and MBN:TN ratios were higher in the forage grass fields, suggesting increased soil organic matter quality compared to the other types of agricultural fields. Our findings suggest that whether conservation agriculture can enhance SOC and TN pools largely depends on crop type with forage grass cultivation being identified as an efficient solution to promote SOC and TN pools.
Photonic Monitoring of Atmospheric and Aquatic Fauna
Authors: Brydegaard Mikkel , Svanberg Sune
Published: October 2018

Flying insects are of utmost importance in ecology and for human living conditions. Certain species serve as indispensable pollinators to ensure the availability of food stuffs, while others are dangerous vectors for spreading deadly diseases, such as malaria. Agricultural pests reduce the yield of crops, and their abatement through pesticides cause many additional problems. Birds and bats are frequently carriers of diseases, which, especially for long‐distance migrants, cause serious consequences. Clearly, there is high motivation to be able to effectively identify and quantify flying fauna. Here, the emerging field of optics and laser‐based monitoring of flying fauna is reviewed with an emphasis on remote sensing based on pulsed and contineous wave (CW) lidar systems, and how they complement existing radar techniques. Furthermore, ground‐truth laboratory studies are covered. Wing‐beat and overtone spectra as well as reflectance, depolarization and fluorescence properties are studied. The aquatic environment is for many reasons less accessible for optical studies, but is clearly also of great importance. Phytoplankton constitute the start of the aquatic food chain, followed by zooplankton and a long chain of higher animals, including fish, an important part of the human food supply. Finally, how optical monitoring can complement sonar and sampling techniques is discussed.
Carbon Dioxide‐Switchable Chitosan/Polymer Composite Nanogels
Authors: He Naipu , Cao Qi , Wang Li , Chen Xiunan , Li Baiyu , Liu Zaiman
Published: October 2018

Carbon dioxide (CO2)‐switchable composite nanogels are composed of biopolymer chitosan (CS) and synthetic polymer poly [N‐(3‐(dimethylamino) propyl) methacrylamide] (PDMAPMA). CS/PDMAPMA composite nanogels (CPCNGs) are fabricated in the solution of chitosan by soap‐free emulsion polymerization using N‐(3‐[dimethylamino] propyl) methacrylamide (DMAPMA) as the monomer and N,N‐methylenebis (acrylamide) (BIS) as the cross‐linker. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) results indicate that the nanogels are spherical nanoparticles with a diameter of about 50 nm. After purging with CO2, the original creamy‐white latex becomes a clear solution. While purging with N2, the clear solution is returned to the original latex state. Introduction of chitosan in nanogels remarkably enhances their CO2 sensitivity. In additional, the SEM results also suggest that phase transition behavior occurs through CO2 and N2 bubbling. The initial state of nanogels can be easily recovered by “washing off” the trigger gas with N2.
Reactive and Functional Nanoobjects by Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly
Authors: Le Dao , Keller Dominic , Delaittre Guillaume
Published: October 2018

Polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) is becoming a standard technique for generating core–shell polymeric nanoparticles of various morphologies ranging from classic spheres to rods/fibers (“worm‐like”) and vesicles. After the initial quest for polymerization control in dispersed media, the focus of PISA research has drastically shifted, first to morphological control and now to the introduction of reactivity and functionality in order to generate useful materials. The present review is dedicated to the latter aspect. Reactivity is distinguished from functionality such as complexing, templating, and catalyzing. Approaches for either shell or core functionalization are also detailed separately.
MIBG Myocardial Scintigraphy Identifies Premotor PD/DLB During a Negative DAT Scan Period: Second Report
Authors: Sakakibara Ryuji , Tateno Fuyuki , Aiba Yosuke , Ogata Tsuyoshi , Kishi Masahiko , Terada Hitoshi , Inaoka Tsutomu , Nakatsuka Tomoya , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi
Published: October 2018

Objectives

Neuroimaging markers for Parkinson's disease (PD)/dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) include dopamine transporter (DAT) scanning and metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) myocardial scintigraphy. It is unknown which marker is useful to identify the premotor phase PD/DLB. We reported four patients who, during a negative DAT scan period, had a positive MIBG result that suggested premotor PD/DLB. Here we report 18 additional patients.

Methods

This study was a prospective cohort study. The recruiting period was five years; prospective follow‐up period, 5.5 ± 3.0 years; and a once a year (minimum) follow‐up visit. We recruited 745 referred subjects. The inclusion criteria were having at least one of the following known PD nonmotor features: (1) autonomic: postural hypotension (pure autonomic failure [PAF]), constipation, bladder dysfunction; (2) sleep: REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD); and (3) cognitive: mild cognitive impairment or psychiatric symptoms. Also, the patient had to have undergone both DAT and MIBG tests.

Results

Only 18 patients fulfilled these criteria. Their characteristics were: elderly (mean age 75.5 years), with long histories (onset 61.0 years; duration 14.5 years), and predominately male (14 men, four women). The patients' neurologic diagnoses were constipation/RBD in 10, constipation/RBD/PAF in six, and constipation/PAF in two. During the follow‐up period, seven patients developed PD or DLB. An abnormal MIBG result was noted in 94%, and an abnormal DAT result was noted in 56%.

Conclusions

MIBG has the potential to be a useful marker during the DAT scan negative period to identify premotor PD/DLB, but further studies are needed.
Bioelectronics at graphene–biofilm interface: Schottky junction formation and capacitive transitions
Authors: Ray Sanhita , Sen Sayantani , Das Alakananda , Bose Anirban , Bhattacharyya Anirban , Das Avishek , Chattopadhyay Sanatan , Singha Shib Shankar , Singha Achintya , Patra Hirak K. , Dasgupta Anjan Kr.
Published: October 2018

We have used an interface of bacterial community and graphene that may provide a platform for tunable bioelectronic components. Graphene nanoplatelets were immobilized by using the establishment process of photosynthetic, purple non‐sulphur biofilm. While immobilized on metallic electrodes, DC current–voltage plot exhibited symmetric threshold voltage which is indicative of both‐way Schottky diode formation. The biomaterial itself demonstrated presence of convergence points in capacitive spectra on frequency axis, when AC amplitude was varied. Incorporation of graphene disrupted such points of convergence and increased the photopigment content in biofilms in response to it. Limiting the carbon source was found to diminish and ultimately reverse this effect. In summary, cross‐talk between the surface electron cloud of two‐dimensional (2D) graphene and biofilm, growing on a 2D surface, can lead to smart hybrid materials, which in turn can be exploited as bioelectronic components.
AuNPs‐HRP microneedle biosensor for ultrasensitive detection of hydrogen peroxide for organ preservation
Authors: Narayanan Jeyaraman S. , Slaughter Gymama
Published: October 2018

The preservation of tissues and organs for transplantation has garnered considerable attention due to the oxidative stress that arises from the excess of reactive oxygen species produced upon the removal of an organ from its native environment. Herein, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)‐horseradish peroxidase (HRP) ultrasensitive microneedle biosensor is developed using a simple electrochemical method for the determination of H2O2. Tungsten microwire was homogenously modified with AuNPs via electrodeposition and 3‐mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) to form self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) for the immobilization of HRP. The prepared AuNPs‐MPA electrode exhibited high electrocatalytic activity towards the reduction of H2O2. At an applied potential of −300 mV, the AuNPs‐HRP electrode yielded a linear ranges of 5 nM to 5 µM H2O2 (R = 0.999) and 1–5 mM H2O2 (R = 0.985) with a low detection limit of 800 pM and a sensitivity of 490.59 Ma/mM/cm2 on average as the result of the strong synergistic effect between HRP and AuNPs. Common interfering species such as ascorbic acid, acetaminophen, glucose and uric acid were effectively eliminated. In addition, the fabricated biosensor exhibited high electrocatalytic activity for the determination of H2O2 in real time from rat abdominal wall perfused with histidine–tryptophan–ketoglutarate solution.
Latino youth in Arizona taught mindfulness to combat obesity
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2018

Aiming to address the national and global health crisis of childhood obesity and diabetes at the community level, researchers at the University of Arizona have conducted an intervention curriculum for Latino children to reduce toxic stress and prevent chronic disease.
Bending loss and propagation characterization of hollow pipe polymer terahertz waveguides
Authors: Wang Nan , Chang Tianying , Yang Ye , Zhang Jin , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Gao Lu , Cui Hong‐liang
Published: October 2018

We investigate the bending loss and propagation characterization of hollow pipe polymer terahertz waveguides, based on 3D electromagnetic simulation and systematic experiments. Bending loss and propagation attenuation of pipe waveguides are investigated for various core diameters and radius of curvature over a wide frequency range (100‐500 GHz). Our results indicate that waveguides with larger core diameters or larger radii of curvature suffer lower loss, with the lowest loss at or near anti‐resonant frequencies, with typical values such as attenuation constant of a straight Teflon waveguide as low as 0.29 m−1 with inner diameter 14 mm, outer diameter 16 mm; and minimal bending loss of 0.45 m−1 with a radius of curvature 50 cm and inner diameter 14 mm, outer diameter 16 mm. Based on the systematic experimental and simulation results, we propose and test a simple relationship that the propagation constant of curved waveguides may follow, which could serve as a design guide for fabrication of hollow pipe polymer waveguides for efficient and long‐distance transmission of terahertz electromagnetic radiation.
Hyperactivation and hypoactivation affective dysregulation symptoms are integral in complex posttraumatic stress disorder: Results from a nonclinical Israeli sample
Authors: Karatzias Thanos , Hyland Philip , Ben‐Ezra Menachem , Shevlin Mark
Published: October 2018

Objectives

The current study sought to further assess the nature of the affect dysregulation (AD) cluster of the International Classification of Diseases‐11 (ICD‐11) proposal for complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) in a nonclinical sample.

Methods

An online survey sample from Israel (n = 618) completed a disorder‐specific measure (International Trauma Questionnaire) of PTSD and CPTSD along with the Life Events Checklist and the World Health Organization Well‐Being Index.

Results

Estimated prevalence rates of PTSD and CPTSD were 9.2% and 1.0%, respectively. Confirmatory factor analysis results indicated that AD symptoms are better conceived as two correlated dimensions of hyperactivation and hypoactivation symptoms. Latent class analysis results indicated that CPTSD was clearly distinguishable from PTSD. CPTSD class membership was associated with higher levels of traumatization and poorer psychological well‐being scores.

Conclusions

Findings support the discriminant validity of the ICD‐11 proposals for PTSD and CPTSD in a nonclinical sample using a disorder‐specific measure. The results provide further evidence that the final symptom profile for CPTSD in ICD‐11 should model the AD cluster using both hyperactivation and hypoactivation symptoms.
Solid‐state NMR tools for the structural characterization of POSiSils: 29Si sensitivity improvement with MC‐CP and 2D 29Si–29Si DQ‐SQ at natural abundance
Authors: Smet Sam , Verlooy Pieter , Saïdi Fadila , Taulelle Francis , Martens Johan A. , Martineau‐Corcos Charlotte
Published: October 2018

The 1H–29Si multiple‐contact cross polarization (MC‐CP) MAS NMR experiment is evaluated for the class of silicate‐siloxane copolymers called POSiSils, that is, polyoligosiloxysilicones. It proves a reasonably good solution to tackle the challenge of recording quantitative 29Si NMR data in experimental time much reduced compared with single pulse acquisition. In a second time, we report 29Si–29Si MC‐CP double‐quantum single‐quantum (MC‐CP‐DQ‐SQ) NMR experiment, which provides information about the through‐space proximities between all silicon species despite the high degree of heterogeneity of this material. This work furthers the NMR tools for NMR crystallography for inorganic polymers, as it covers flexible polymers with different dimensionalities and long or heterogeneous relaxation characteristics at low 29Si natural abundance.
Electrical properties tomography: Available contrast and reconstruction capabilities
Authors: Hancu Ileana , Liu Jiaen , Hua Yihe , Lee Seung‐Kyun
Published: October 2018

MR‐based electrical properties tomography converts the MRI transmit/receive RF field measurements to tissue electrical property maps through dedicated reconstruction algorithms. Recent reports showed that despite limitations, electrical properties tomography holds promise for generating additional contrast for tumor detection and patient‐specific modeling of tissue–RF field interactions. This review summarizes the available tissue electrical property contrasts and compares them with the capabilities of the most commonly used electrical properties tomography reconstruction method. Future directions and prospects of clinical translation are discussed.
N‐vinylpyrrolidone copolymers decorated with silver nanoparticles for biomedical applications
Authors: Gorbunova Marina , Lemkina Larisa , Eroshenko Daria , Gileva Ksenya
Published: October 2018

New silver nanocomposites (AgNCs) based on copolymers of N‐vinylpyrrolidone with N,N‐diallyl‐N′‐acetylhydrazine, poly (VP‐DAAH), and 3‐methacryloxytetrahydrothiophenedioxide‐1,1, poly (VP‐MTT), have been developed. The reduction of silver ions into silver nanoparticles was achieved using NaBH4 as reducing agent. UV‐spectroscopy, an atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy techniques were used to characterize the formation of silver nanoparticles in copolymers. The average silver particle size ranged from 12 to 13 nm, with the corresponding UV–vis absorption peak position at 400 to 410 nm. The AgNCs have exhibited significant cytotoxic activity towards rhabdomyosarcoma and melanoma line cells. The AgNC based on poly (VP‐MTT) completely inhibited bacterial growth, including both gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria.
First transgenic trait for control of plant bugs and thrips in cotton
Authors: Akbar Waseem , Gowda Anilkumar , Ahrens Jeffrey E , Stelzer Jason W , Brown Robert S , Bollman Scott L , Greenplate John T , Gore Jeffrey , Catchot Angus L , Lorenz Gus , Stewart Scott D , Kerns David L , Greene Jeremy K , Toews Michael D , Herbert David A , Reisig Dominic D , Sword Gregory A , Ellsworth Peter C , Godfrey Larry D , Clark Thomas L
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Plant bugs (Lygus spp.) and thrips (Thrips spp.) are two of the most economically important insect pest groups impacting cotton production in the USA today, but are not controlled by current transgenic cotton varieties. Thus, seed or foliar‐applied chemical insecticides are typically required to protect cotton from these pest groups. Currently, these pests are resistant to several insecticides, resulting in fewer options for economically viable management. Previous publications documented the efficacy of transgenic cotton event MON 88702 against plant bugs and thrips in limited laboratory and field studies. Here, we report results from multi‐location and multi‐year field studies demonstrating efficacy provided by MON 88702 against various levels of these pests.

RESULTS

MON 88702 provided a significant reduction in numbers of Lygus nymphs and subsequent yield advantage. MON 88702 also had fewer thrips and minimal injury. The level of control demonstrated by this transgenic trait was significantly better compared with its non‐transgenic near‐isoline, DP393, receiving insecticides at current commercial rates.

CONCLUSION

The level of efficacy demonstrated here suggests that MON 88702, when incorporated into existing IPM programs, could become a valuable additional tool for management of Lygus and thrips in cotton agroecosystems experiencing challenges of resistance to existing chemical control strategies. © 2018 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Diagnostic fragmentation filtering for the discovery of new chaetoglobosins and cytochalasins
Authors: Walsh Jacob P. , Renaud Justin B. , Hoogstra Shawn , McMullin David R. , Ibrahim Ashraf , Visagie Cobus M. , Tanney Joey B. , Yeung Ken K.‐C. , Sumarah Mark W.
Published: October 2018

Rationale

Microbial natural products are often biosynthesized as classes of structurally related compounds that have similar tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) fragmentation patterns. Mining MS/MS datasets for precursor ions that share diagnostic or common features enables entire chemical classes to be identified, including novel derivatives that have previously been unreported. Analytical data analysis tools that can facilitate a class‐targeted approach to rapidly dereplicate known compounds and identify structural variants within complex matrices would be useful for the discovery of new natural products.

Methods

A diagnostic fragmentation filtering (DFF) module was developed for MZmine to enable the efficient screening of MS/MS datasets for class‐specific product ions(s) and/or neutral loss(es). This approach was applied to series of the structurally related chaetoglobosin and cytochalasin classes of compounds. These were identified from the culture filtrates of three fungal genera: Chaetomium globosum, a putative new species of Penicillium (called here P. cf. discolor: closely related to P. discolor), and Xylaria sp. Extracts were subjected to LC/MS/MS analysis under positive electrospray ionization and operating in a data‐dependent acquisition mode, performed using a Thermo Q‐Exactive mass spectrometer. All MS/MS datasets were processed using the DFF module and screened for diagnostic product ions at m/z 130.0648 and 185.0704 for chaetoglobosins, and m/z 120.0808 and 146.0598 for cytochalasins.

Results

Extracts of C. globosum and P. cf. discolor strains revealed different mixtures of chaetoglobosins, whereas the Xylaria sp. produced only cytochalasins; none of the strains studied produced both classes of compounds. The dominant chaetoglobosins produced by both C. globosum and P. cf. discolor were chaetoglobosins A, C, and F. Tetrahydrochaetoglobosin A was identified from P. cf. discolor extracts and is reported here for the first time as a natural product. The major cytochalasins produced by the Xylaria sp. were cytochalasin D and epoxy cytochalasin D. A larger unknown “cytochalasin‐like” molecule with the molecular formula C38H47NO10 was detected from Xylaria sp. culture filtrate extracts and is a current target for isolation and structural characterization.

Conclusions

DFF is an effective LC/MS data analysis approach for rapidly identifying entire classes of compounds from complex mixtures. DFF has proved useful in the identification of new natural products and allowing for their partial characterization without the need for isolation.
Determination of nitrogen isotopes on samples with tens of nmol of N using the combination of an elemental analyzer, a GasBench interface and an isotope ratio mass spectrometer: An evaluation of blank N contributions and blank‐correction
Authors: Cui Linlin , Wang Xu , Feng Lianjun
Published: October 2018

Rationale

The combination of an Elemental Analyzer, a GasBench interface and Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (EA‐GasBench‐IRMS system) is a promising method for the δ15N analysis of samples containing trace amounts of nitrogen (N). Nevertheless, N blanks, which are limiting factors for the accuracy and precision of measured δ15N values, have received little study. In this paper, a variety of N blank sources in the EA‐GasBench‐IRMS system were systematically evaluated in order to take effective measures to reduce the blank interference as much as possible.

Methods

N‐Isotopic analysis was accomplished using an elemental analyzer coupled to an isotope ratio mass spectrometer via a sample loop and a GasBench interface. The N in the sample was converted into N2gas in the EA system, and then transferred and trapped in a sample loop with a deactivated stainless‐steel chromatography column packed with 5 A molecular sieve polymer at liquid nitrogen temperature (−196°C). Subsequently, the N2gas was released by warming the sample loop up to 100°C and introduced into the isotope ratio mass spectrometer via the GasBench interface. The N blank sources in the EA‐GasBench‐IRMS system were investigated systematically by looking at seven parts: (a) Helium carrier gas, (b) Autosampler, (c) CO2/water trap, (d) Size of reactor tube, (e) Sample collection time, (f) Oxygen gas, and (g) Capsules.

Results

The N blanks are mainly derived from the helium carrier gas, atmospheric N2entrained into the system through the autosampler, and the N retained in the CO2/water trap filled with CO2absorbent and Mg(ClO4)2, which together can account for a total of ~507.3 nmol N. Through purifying the helium gas, modifying the autosampler and using a cryogenic trap, we reduced the N blank considerably, to ~10.7 nmol, and obtained a nearly uniform isotopic composition (δ15NBlank = −4.54 ± 0.36‰ AIR,n = 32, 1SD) of blank N thus guaranteeing a reliable correction.

Conclusions

Measurements on a set of IAEA‐N1, IAEA‐600 and collagen standards with 40 nmol–200 nmol N produced accurate δ15N values with standard deviation of ±0.26‰, ±0.22‰ and ± 0.23‰ (1σ) after blank correction, respectively. Our findings offer clues to optimizing the analytical method for trace N isotopic determination and they are also beneficial to improving δ15N measurement using conventional EA‐IRMS.
Water vapor exposure chamber for constant humidity and hydrogen and oxygen stable isotope composition
Authors: Oerter Erik J. , Singleton Michael , Thaw Melissa , Davisson M. Lee
Published: October 2018

Rationale

Water vapor exposure experiments have applications for studying water physisorption and chemisorption hydration and hydroxylation reactions on a wide variety of material surfaces. The stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen in the water molecule are useful tracers of water exchange mechanisms and/or rates in such vapor exposure experiments.

Methods

We designed and built a humidity chamber system that uses membrane‐mediated liquid–vapor exchange of water followed by mixing with dry air to control the relative humidity of air and its δ2H and δ18O isotopic composition. We tested the stability and precision of the humidity and its isotopic composition on hourly to 90‐day timescales.

Results

The humidity chamber design reported here is capable of providing relative humidity control to within ±1%, and consistent δ2H and δ18O values of the water vapor that are similar to our cavity ringdown spectroscopy (CRDS) measurement precision (δ2Hvap ± 0.7‰ and δ18Ovap ± 0.24‰). We quantify the isotopic enrichment effects of Rayleigh distillation in the system and provide information on water reservoir sizes large enough to buffer isotopic enrichment effects to within measurement precision.

Conclusions

The humidity chamber design reported here provides a means to create constant δ2H and δ18O values over the course of an exposure experiment. The design has applications to a wide range of studies of water sorption on material surfaces from foods and pharmaceuticals to geological materials.
Monotonicity and phase diagram for multirange percolation on oriented trees
Authors: de Lima Bernardo N. B. , Rolla Leonardo T. , Valesin Daniel
Published: October 2018

We consider Bernoulli bond percolation on oriented regular trees, where besides the usual short bonds, all bonds of a certain length are added. Independently, short bonds are open with probability p and long bonds are open with probability q. We study properties of the critical curve which delimits the set of pairs (p,q) for which there are almost surely no infinite paths. We also show that this curve decreases with respect to the length of the long bonds.