bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Rat Placental Fatty Acid, but Decreased Amino Acid and Glucose Transporters Potentially Modify Intrauterine Programming
Authors: Nüsken Eva , Gellhaus Alexandra , Kühnel Elisabeth , Swoboda Isabelle , Wohlfarth Maria , Vohlen Christina , Schneider Holm , Dötsch Jörg , Nüsken Kai‐Dietrich
Published: November 2015

Regulation of placental nutrient transport significantly affects fetal development and may modify intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and fetal programming. We hypothesized that placental nutrient transporters are differentially affected both by utero‐placental insufficiency and prenatal surgical stress. Pregnant rats underwent bilateral uterine artery and vein ligation (LIG), sham operation (SOP) or no operation (controls, C) on gestational day E19. Placentas were obtained by caesarean section 4 h (LIG, n=20 placentas; SOP, n=24; C, n=12), 24 h (LIG, n=28; SOP, n=20; C, n=12) and 72 h (LIG, n=20; SOP, n=20; C, n=24) after surgery. Gene and protein expression of placental nutrient transporters for fatty acids (h‐FABP, CD36), amino acids (SNAT1, SNAT2) and glucose (GLUT‐1, Connexin 26) were examined by qRT‐PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry. Interestingly, the mean protein expression of h‐FABP was doubled in placentas of LIG and SOP animals 4, 24 (SOP significant) and 72 h (SOP significant) after surgery. CD36 protein was significantly increased in LIG after 72 h. SNAT1 and SNAT2 protein and gene expressions were significantly reduced in LIG and SOP after 24 h. Further significantly reduced proteins were GLUT‐1 in LIG (4 h, 72 h) and SOP (24 h), and Connexin 26 in LIG (72 h). In conclusion, placental nutrient transporters are differentially affected both by reduced blood flow and stress, probably modifying the already disturbed intrauterine milieu and contributing to IUGR and fetal programming. Increased fatty acid transport capacity may affect energy metabolism and could be a compensatory reaction with positive effects on brain development. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1594–1603, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Red Raspberry Phenols Inhibit Angiogenesis: A Morphological and Subcellular Analysis Upon Human Endothelial Cells
Authors: Sousa M. , Machado V. , Costa R. , Figueira M.E. , Sepodes B. , Barata P. , Ribeiro L. , Soares R.
Published: November 2015

Polyphenols are a class of natural compounds whose potential as antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐angiogenesis has been reported in many pathological conditions. Red raspberry extract, rich in polyphenols, has been reported to exert anti‐inflammatory effects and prevent cell proliferation in distinct animal models. However, the signaling pathways involved remain unknown. Herein, we used human microvascular endothelial cells (HMVECs) to determine the influence of red raspberry phenolic compound extract concentrations, ranging from 10 to 250 µg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/mL, on endothelium viability (MTS assay), proliferation (BrdU incorporation), migration (injury assay), and capillary‐like structures formation (Matrigel assay). Protein expression in cell lysates was determined by Western blot analysis. We showed that red raspberry extracts reduced cell viability (GI50 = 87,64 ± 6,59 μg GAE/mL) and proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner. A significant abrogation of cells ability to migrate to injured areas, even at low concentrations, was observed by injury assay. Cell assembly into capillary‐like structures on Matrigel also decreased in a dose dependent‐manner for higher extract concentrations, as well as the number of branching points per unit of area. Protein expression analysis showed a dose‐dependent decrease in Phospho‐VEGFR2 expression, implying abrogation of VEGF signaling activity. We also showed for the first time that red raspberry phenolic compounds induce the rearrangement of filamentous actin cytoskeleton, with an isotropy increase found for higher testing concentrations. Taken together, our findings corroborate the anti‐angiogenic potential of red raspberry phenolic compounds and provide new insights into their mode of action upon endothelium. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1604–1612, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Danionella dracula, an escape from the cypriniform Bauplan via developmental truncation?
Authors: Britz Ralf , Conway Kevin W.
Published: November 2015

We provide a detailed account of the osteology of the miniature Asian freshwater cyprinid fish Danionella dracula. The skeleton of D. dracula shows a high degree of developmental truncation when compared to most other cyprinids, including its close relative the zebrafish Danio rerio. Sixty‐one bones, parts thereof or cartilages present in most other cyprinids are missing in D. dracula. This impressive organism‐wide case of progenesis renders it one of the most developmentally truncated bony fishes or even vertebrates. Danionella dracula lacks six of the eight unique synapomorphies that define the order Cypriniformes and has, thus, departed from the cypriniform Bauplan more dramatically than any other member of this group. This escape from one of the most successful Baupläne among bony fishes may have been facilitated by the organism‐wide progenesis encountered in D. dracula. By returning in its skeletal structure to the early developmental condition of other cypriniforms, D. dracula may have managed to overcome the evolutionary constraints associated with this Bauplan and opened up new evolutionary avenues that enabled it to evolve a number of striking morphological novelties, including its tooth‐like odontoid processes and a complex drumming apparatus. J. Morphol. 277:147–166, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pigment cell mechanism of postembryonic stripe pattern formation in the Japanese four‐lined snake
Authors: Murakami Arata , Hasegawa Masami , Kuriyama Takeo
Published: November 2015

Postembryonic changes in the dermal and epidermal pigment cell architecture of the striped and nonstriped morph of the Japanese four‐lined snake Elaphe quadrivirgata were examined to reveal stripe pattern formation after hatching. The striped and nonstriped morphs were distinguishable at the hatching, suggesting that the basis of stripe pattern was formed during embryonic development. In the striped morph, the color of stripes changed from red‐brown in juveniles to vivid dark‐brown in adults, and density of dermal melanophore increased much more in the stripe than background dorsal scales with growth. This increase in density of dermal melanophore was accompanied not only by the increased epidermal melanophore density but also by the change in vertical structures of dermal melanophore. By contrast, the density of epidermal and dermal melanophore evenly increased over the dorsal scales in the nonstriped morph. Thus, the increased vividness of the stripe pattern after hatching is achieved through localized increase of melanophore density particularly in the stripe region but not over the whole dorsal scales. J. Morphol. 277:196–203, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Subjective and objective voice outcomes after transoral laser microsurgery for early glottic cancer
Authors: Fink Daniel S. , Sibley Haley , Kunduk Melda , Schexnaildre Mell , Kakade Anagha , Sutton Collin , McWhorter Andrew J.
Published: November 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) continues to gain popularity as a treatment modality for early glottic cancer. Oncologic outcomes have been well‐defined, but there are little data to date describing functional outcomes accounting for stage of resection.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patient‐rated voice handicap and observer‐rated vocal quality of patients who underwent TLM for early glottic carcinoma. Patients were grouped by European Laryngological Society (ELS) resection type, and the data were combined for ELS type I–III and compared with advanced resections (ELS IV–VI). The Voice Handicap Index (VHI) was used for patient‐rated voice outcomes, and voice recordings were graded by two senior speech‐language pathologists. Voice recordings and VHI scores were taken preoperatively and at least 1 month postoperatively.

Results

No major complications were encountered. Six of 49 patients underwent repeat resection for suspicious findings with pathology, demonstrating moderate dysplasia in two cases, carcinoma in situ in two cases, and inflamed mucosa only in two cases. There was no significant difference in preoperative VHI scores or objective voice grades among patients who underwent limited (ELS I–III) and those who required more advanced (ELS IV–VI) resection. There was a significant improvement in VHI scores in patients after ELS type I to III resection, from 38.77 to 22.86 (P = .006). There was no significant difference between mean preoperative and postoperative perceptual evaluation scores in patients who underwent ELS type I, II, or III resections (62.25 and 64.32 respectively, P = .621).

Conclusions

Patients who undergo limited ELS resections can be assured of having a similar to improved voice after healing. Patients who undergo extended resections have poorer vocal outcomes.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 126:405–407, 2016
Volumetric analysis of tumor control following subtotal and near‐total resection of vestibular schwannoma
Authors: Jacob Jeffrey T. , Carlson Matthew L. , Driscoll Colin L. , Link Michael J.
Published: November 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

The primary goals of microsurgery for vestibular schwannoma (VS) include preservation of neural function and complete tumor removal. In a subset of patients, adherent tumor remnant may be intentionally left behind in order to minimize risk of new neurologic deficits. It is not well established if residual tumor volume predicts likelihood of tumor remnant growth.

Methods

Patients with sporadic VS who underwent near‐total (NTR) or subtotal (STR) VS resection between 2000 and 2014 were reviewed. Postoperative tumor remnants were volumetrically contoured using T1‐weighted gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging obtained within 3 months of surgery.

Results

A total of 103 patients met study criteria, and the median duration of radiographic follow‐up was 41 months (mean 56.1 months, range 12–150 months). Fifty patients underwent NTR and 53 received STR. Overall 14 (13.6%) tumors recurred at a median of 41.0 months. Patients who underwent STR were over 13 times more likely to recur compared with those treated with NTR (hazard ratio 13.31; 95% confidence interval 1.71–103.91; P = 0.014). The median time to recurrence following NTR was 124 months compared to 32 months after STR (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Long‐term follow‐up in patients undergoing incomplete resection is essential. Near‐total resection has a significantly lower rate of recurrence compared to STR. Maximal surgical resection should be the goal in VS microsurgery. The decision to pursue less than complete resection should be based on intraoperative impression, when it is felt that continued dissection of adherent disease would compromise neurologic outcome.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:1877–1882, 2016
Computed tomography scan does not correlate with patient experience of nasal obstruction
Authors: Ardeshirpour Farhad , McCarn Kate E. , McKinney Alexander M. , Odland Rick M. , Yueh Bevan , Hilger Peter A.
Published: November 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Third‐party payors have begun to demand imaging studies to document septal deviation prior to authorizing septoplasties. This study aims to determine whether septal deviation findings on computed tomography (CT) correlate with symptoms of nasal obstruction as determined by the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale.

Study Design

Prospective and retrospective chart review.

Methods

Patients 18 years or older undergoing CT scans, which included the nasal septum, were asked to complete a NOSE scale survey and report the laterality of any possible obstruction. Coronal CT images of subjects were graded by two blinded otolaryngologists and two blinded neuroradiologists using a grading system devised by the authors.

Results

Seventy‐three subjects met inclusion/exclusion criteria. Interobserver reliability about the degree of septal deviation on CT scans was moderately good to substantial (κ values, 0.43 to 0.72). There was poor correlation between NOSE scores and degree of deviation on CT scans (Kendall's τ, 0.031 to 0.045; P values all >.05). There was poor concordance between the side of symptoms that patients reported and the side that observers thought was most deviated on CT.

Conclusions

There is little correlation between septal deviation findings on CT scans and symptoms of nasal obstruction. The results do not support a role for CT scans as either a clinically meaningful or necessary test to investigate uncomplicated nasal obstruction.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 126:820–825, 2016
Disulfiram and its novel derivative sensitize prostate cancer cells to the growth regulatory mechanisms of the cell by re‐expressing the epigenetically repressed tumor suppressor—estrogen receptor β
Authors: Sharma Vikas , Verma Vikas , Lal Nand , Yadav Santosh K. , Sarkar Saumya , Mandalapu Dhanaraju , Porwal Konica , Rawat Tara , Maikhuri J.P. , Rajender Singh , Sharma V.L. , Gupta Gopal
Published: November 2015

Estrogen Receptor‐β (ER‐β), a tumor‐suppressor in prostate cancer, is epigenetically repressed by hypermethylation of its promoter. DNA‐methyltransferases (DNMTs), which catalyze the transfer of methyl‐groups to CpG islands of gene promoters, are overactive in cancers and can be inhibited by DNMT‐inhibitors to re‐express the tumor suppressors. The FDA‐approved nucleoside DNMT‐inhibitors like 5‐Azacytidine and 5‐Aza‐deoxycytidine carry notable concerns due to their off‐target toxicity, therefore non‐nucleoside DNMT inhibitors are desirable for prolonged epigenetic therapy. Disulfiram (DSF), an antabuse drug, inhibits DNMT and prevents proliferation of cells in prostate and other cancers, plausibly through the re‐expression of tumor suppressors like ER‐β. To increase the DNMT‐inhibitory activity of DSF, its chemical scaffold was optimized and compound‐339 was discovered as a doubly potent DSF‐derivative with similar off‐target toxicity. It potently and selectively inhibited cell proliferation of prostate cancer (PC3/DU145) cells in comparison to normal (non‐cancer) cells by promoting cell‐cycle arrest and apoptosis, accompanied with inhibition of total DNMT activity, and re‐expression of ER‐β (mRNA/protein). Bisulfite‐sequencing of ER‐β promoter revealed that compound‐339 demethylated CpG sites more efficaciously than DSF, restoring near‐normal methylation status of ER‐β promoter. Compound‐339 docked on to the MTase domain of DNMT1 with half the energy of DSF. In xenograft mice‐model, the tumor volume regressed by 24% and 50% after treatment with DSF and compound‐339, respectively, with increase in ER‐β expression. Apparently both compounds inhibit prostate cancer cell proliferation by re‐expressing the epigenetically repressed tumor‐suppressor ER‐β through inhibition of DNMT activity. Compound‐339 presents a new lead for further study as an anti‐prostate cancer agent. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Construction and validation of the chronic acquired polyneuropathy patient‐reported index (CAP‐PRI): A disease‐specific, health‐related quality‐of‐life instrument
Authors: Gwathmey Kelly G. , Conaway Mark R. , Sadjadi Reza , Joshi Amruta , Barnett Carolina , Bril Vera , Ng Eduardo , David William , Gable Karissa , Guptill Jeffrey T. , Hobson‐Webb Lisa D. , Dineen Jennifer , Hehir Michael , Brannagan Thomas H. , Byun Esther , Adler Margaret , Burns Ted M.
Published: November 2015

Introduction: Generic health‐related quality‐of‐life (HRQOL) patient‐reported outcome measures have been used in patients with chronic immune‐mediated polyneuropathies. We have created a disease‐specific HRQOL instrument. Methods: The chronic acquired polyneuropathy patient‐reported index (CAP‐PRI) was developed and validated in multiple steps. Items were initially generated through patient and specialist input. The performance of the preliminary 20 items was analyzed via a prospective, 5‐center study involving chronic immune‐mediated polyneuropathy patients. Results: Data analysis suggested modification to a 15‐item scale with 3 response categories rather than 5. The final CAP‐PRI was validated in another prospective, 5‐center study. The CAP‐PRI appeared to be a unidimensional outcome measure that fit the Rasch model in our multicenter cohort. It correlated appropriately with outcome measures commonly used in this patient population. Conclusions: The CAP‐PRI is a simple disease‐specific HRQOL measure that appears to be useful for clinical care and possibly also for clinical trials. Muscle Nerve 54: 9–17, 2016
Feasibility study on the use of methylation‐specific MLPA for the 11p15 region on prenatal samples
Authors: Gede Lene Bjerring , Hahnemann Johanne M. D. , Tümer Zeynep , Brøndum‐Nielsen Karen , Grønskov Karen
Published: November 2015

What's already known about this topic?

A few publications describing prenatal diagnosis of BWS are known.

However, the methylation status of the 11p15 imprinted region in normal prenatal samples is not known. Such information is important for determining if regions or specific nucleotides are suitable for prenatal diagnosis.

What does this study add?

In postnatal diagnosis, methylation‐specific MLPA is the most frequently used method for the diagnosis of Beckwith–Wiedemann and Silver–Russell syndrome. In the work presented here, the feasibility of such a ms‐MLPA on prenatal samples from normal pregnancies is studied.
Biochemical basis of alphamethrin resistance in different life stages ofAnopheles stephensistrains of Bangalore, India
Authors: Hariprasad Thiruvaipati PN , Shetty Nadikere J
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND

Anopheles stephensiis an important urban malaria vector in the Indian subcontinent. Extensive application of insecticides evokes microevolution, which results in resistance that can be traced back to their genotypes. In this study, resistant and susceptible strains ofAn. stephensifor alphamethrin were selected by selective inbreeding for 27 and ten generations respectively. The biochemical basis of resistance in all the life stages was investigated. Quantitative assays were performed for proteins (total and soluble), esterases (α,βand acetylcholine) and phosphatases (acid and alkaline) by spectrophotometry, and qualitative assays for the enzymes by native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.

RESULTS

The enzyme quantities significantly varied in all life stages of the resistant strain as compared with the susceptible ones. Qualitative studies showed seven isoforms forα‐ andβ‐esterases, three each for acetylcholinesterase and alkaline phosphatase and two for acid phosphatase. Exclusive bands were found in the resistant strain, such asα‐Est 1andβ‐Est 1in eggs and larvae,β‐Est 3in adult males,β‐Est 2in adult females andAlkP 1,AlkP 2andAlkP 3in adult females, larvae and adult males respectively.

CONCLUSION

Variations in the quantity and specific enzyme isoforms play a key role in the development of alphamethrin resistance inAn. stephensi.© 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Should Expressivism Be a Theory at the Level of Metasemantics?
Authors: Alwood Andrew ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: November 2015

Michael Ridge argues that metaethical expressivism can avoid its most worrisome problems by going ‘Ecumenical’. Ridge emphasizes that he aims to develop expressivism at the level of metasemantics rather than at the level of (first-order) semantics. This is supposed to allow him to avoid a mentalist semantics of attitudes and instead offer an orthodox, truth-conditional or propositional semantics. However, I argue that Ridge’s theory remains committed to mentalist semantics, and that his move to go metasemantic doesn’t bring any clear advantages to the debate between expressivism and its opponents.
Global metabolic profiling for the study of Rhizoma Paridis saponins‐induced hepatotoxicity in rats
Authors: Man Shuli , Qiu Peiyu , Li Jing , Zhang Liming , Gao Wenyuan
Published: November 2015

Rhizoma Paridis saponins (RPS) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) from the plant Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis (Fr.) Hand.‐Mazz. Despite its potentially clinical utility such as anticancer and anti‐inflammation, it has slight side effects and toxicity as previous report. In this work, 90‐day administration of RPS induced liver injury. 1H‐NMR‐ and GC/MS‐based metabonomic analyses in conjunction with histopathological examinations, blood biochemistry and hepatic phase I and II enzymes assays were performed to evaluate the toxic mechanisms of RPS induced in rats. As a result, oral administration of RPS possessed certain liver toxicity in SD rats. 1H‐NMR and GC/MS data indicated that RPS inhibited the oxidation of fatty acids, glycolysis, and TCA cycle pathway, and disturbed glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism. Low expression of TG, T‐CHO, and LDL‐C and high levels of ALT and AST indicated that chronic exposure to RPS caused hepatocyte damage, synthesis dysfunction, and transportation failure of lipoproteins. In addition, RPS downregulated the mRNA levels of CYP1A2, CYP2E1, and UGTs. In conclusion, we used metabonomics approach to study the toxicity of RPS for the first time. This research demonstrated that metabonomics method was a promising tool to study and diagnose TCM‐induced toxicity. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 99–108, 2017.
Cellular and molecular hypoxic response in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) exposed to linear alkylbenzene sulfonate at sublethal concentrations
Authors: Tasaki Junichi , Nakayama Kei , Shimizu Ichiyo , Yamada Hiroko , Suzuki Takahiro , Nishiyama Naohiro , Yamane Masayuki
Published: November 2015

Linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) is an anionic surfactant commonly used in cleaning agents such as laundry detergents. Trace amounts of LAS are released into environmental waters after processing in wastewater treatment plants after the use of this chemical. Acute toxicity of LAS has been well‐studied using various organisms, and its effects are particularly well known in fish. LAS damages fish gill morphology and induces mucous excretion from these organs. LAS also causes hematological changes. These observations suggest that LAS might induce hypoxic conditions in fish. However, the connections between hypoxia and hematological changes at the cellular and molecular levels remain unknown. Common carp were exposed to LAS at concentrations of 625, 1250, and 2500 μg/L for 96 h. A total of 9–10 fish were sampled at the end of the exposure period for each concentration. For hematological analysis, carp blood was sampled from the caudal vein. Gill tissue was used for real‐time PCR analysis to evaluate transcriptional changes of hypoxia‐induced genes. The number of normal red blood cells and the number of immature red blood cells were significantly decreased and increased, respectively, in fish exposed to 2500 µg/L LAS. The hypoxic marker genes hypoxia inducible factor 1α, myoglobin 1, and erythropoietin 2 were upregulated in these fish. Our results suggest that LAS decreases erythrocyte numbers and induces hypoxic conditions. In addition, LAS‐exposed fish increase production of immature erythrocytes and upregulate myoglobin expression in gills to improve oxygen transport and absorption. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 122–130, 2017.
Methamidophos induces cytotoxicity and oxidative stress in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Ramirez‐Vargas Marco Antonio , Huerta‐Beristain Gerardo , Guzman‐Guzman Iris Paola , Alarcon‐Romero Luz del Carmen , Flores‐Alfaro Eugenia , Rojas‐Garcia Aurora Elizabeth , Moreno‐Godinez Ma Elena
Published: November 2015

Previous studies have shown that organophosphate pesticide (OP) exposure is associated with oxidative stress. Methamidophos (MET) is an OP widely used in agriculture, which is regarded as a highly toxic pesticide and it is a potent inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether MET can induce oxidative stress at low concentrations in primary cultures of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). PBMCs from healthy individuals were exposed to MET (0–80 mg/L) for 0–72 h. We performed the MTT and neutral‐red assays to assess the cytotoxicity. As indicators of oxidative stress, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed using flow cytometry, and the malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were determined. MET decreased the viability of PBMCs in a dose‐dependent manner. At concentrations of 3, 10, or 20 mg/L for 24 h, MET increased the ROS production significantly compared with the vehicle control. Similarly, MET increased the levels of MDA at the same concentrations that increased ROS (10 and 20 mg/L); however, no changes in GSH levels were observed. These results suggest that MET increased the generation of oxidative stress in PBMCs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 147–155, 2017.
A data privacy protective mechanism for wireless body area networks
Authors: Xu GuangXia , Wu Qun , Daneshmand Mahmoud , Liu Yanbing , Wang ManMan
Published: November 2015

As an important branch of wireless sensor networks, wireless body area networks (WBAN) has attracted widespread attention in various fields because of its portability and mobility. However, because much of the data collected by WBAN are related to personal information of the user, the sensitive private data may be at risk of leakage or malicious modification in the actual process of application and deployment. In order to assure the security and privacy of user's data in the environment of WBAN, this paper presents a Data Privacy Protective Mechanism for WBAN. In order to secure data and secure transmission, this mechanism combines symmetric key with an asymmetric key to transmit user's data. Then, it cuts and reorganizes the data in the process of transmission to better capture defense and the attacks of the nodes. Ultimately transmits the user's data securely under the condition that the data collected by the nodes are confidential and secure. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nanoparticle dosage—a nontrivial task of utmost importance for quantitative nanosafety research
Authors: Feliu Neus , Pelaz Beatriz , Zhang Qian , del Pino Pablo , Nyström Andreas , Parak Wolfgang J.
Published: November 2015

For a detailed and correct understanding of effects of colloidal nanoparticles exposed to organisms, a correlation of such effects to the physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles is a necessity. Such correlation is complex by the fact that many physicochemical parameters such as size, shape, surface charge, and colloidal stability are interlinked, and nontrivial to experimentally determine. This review aims to give an overview regarding such correlations. Particular focus will be given on the role of determining nanoparticle concentrations, which is the basis for most quantitative toxicity evaluations. A comparison of mass versus particle number concentrations is given, and their respective differences are highlighted. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2016, 8:479–492. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1378

This article is categorized under:

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology

Toxicology and Regulatory Issues in Nanomedicine > Toxicology of Nanomaterials
An examination of the cross‐cultural validity of the Identity Capital Model: American and Japanese students compared
Authors: Côté James E. , Mizokami Shinichi , Roberts Sharon E. , Nakama Reiko
Published: November 2015

The Identity Capital Model proposes that forms of personal agency are associated with identity development as part of the transition to adulthood. This model was examined in two cultural contexts, taking into account age and gender, among college and university students aged 18 to 24 (N = 995). Confirmatory Factor Analyses verified cultural, age, and gender invariance of the two key operationalizations of the model. A Structural Equation Model path analysis confirmed that the model applies in both cultures with minor variations—types of personal agency are associated with the formation of adult‐ and societal‐identities as part of the resolution of the identity stage. It was concluded that forms of personal agency providing the most effective ways of dealing with “individualization” (e.g., internal locus of control) are more important in the transition to adulthood among American students, whereas types of personal agency most effective in dealing with “individualistic collectivism” (e.g., ego strength) are more important among Japanese students.
Embodied Self-Authentication
Authors: Hopper Daniel , Costley Carolyn L. , Friend Lorraine A.
Published: November 2015

Through sensual ethnography and poetic representation, we learned that individuals “self-authenticate” through embodied performance experiences of their own identities. Participating in the extraordinary experience of rock concerts revitalises existential authenticity, which enhances a person's feeling of wholeness and well-being. This extends our understanding of value derived from extraordinary experiences and adds “existential authenticity” to consumption motivations and consequences.
Caracterización del clima organizacional en hospitales de alta complejidad en Chile
Authors: Bustamante-Ubilla Miguel Alejandro , Grandón Avendaño Maderline Lissette , Lapo Maza María del Carmen
Published: November 2015

El presente estudio tiene por objetivo caracterizar el clima organizacional al interior de 2 hospitales de alta complejidad de Chile, determinando las dimensiones más y menos influyentes. Para su desarrollo se aplicó un cuestionario que consta de 71 variables agrupadas en 14 dimensiones a una muestra de 561 funcionarios. La interpretación de los resultados se realizó a través del análisis del valor promedio estandarizado y su confiabilidad ratificada mediante el alfa de Cronbach. A partir de lo anterior, se determinó que las dimensiones que influyen por encima del promedio fueron: identidad, motivación laboral y responsabilidad; en tanto que las dimensiones que muestran un nivel de impacto por debajo del promedio resultaron ser: equipo y distribución de personas y material, administración del conflicto y comunicación.
Identification of genes associated with melanoma metastasis
Authors: Qiu Tao , Wang Hongyi , Wang Yang , Zhang Yu , Hui Qiang , Tao Kai
Published: November 2015

The aims of the study were to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between primary melanomas and metastasis melanomas (MMs), and to investigate the mechanisms of MMs. The microarray data GSE8401 including 31 primary melanomas and 52 MMs were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus. DEGs were identified using the Linear Models for Microarray Data package. The functional and pathway enrichment analyses were performed for DEGs. Identification of transcription factors, tumor‐associated genes (TAGs), and tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) were performed with the TRANSFAC, TAG, and TSGene databases, respectively. A protein–protein interaction network was constructed using Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes. The modules construction and analysis was performed using Molecular Complex Detection and Gene Cluster with Literature Profiles, respectively. In total, 1004 upregulated and 1008 downregulated DEGs were identified. The upregulated DEGs, such as CDK1, BRCA1, MAD2L1, and PCNA, were significantly enriched in cell cycles, DNA replication, and mismatch repair. The downregulated DEGs, such as COLIAL, COL4A5, COL18A1, and LAMC2, were enriched in cell adhesion and extracellular matrix‐receptor interaction. BRCA1 was identified as a transcription factor and TSG, and COL18A1 and LAMC2 were identified as a TSG and TAG, respectively. The upregulated DEGs had higher degrees in the protein–protein interaction network and module, such as PCNA, CDK1, and MAD2L1, and the heat map showed they were clustered in the functions of cell cycle and division. These results may demonstrate the potential roles of DEGs such as CDK1, BRCA1, COL18A1, and LAMC2 in the mechanism of MM.
The evidence for early writing: utilitarian or ceremonial?
Authors: Postgate Nicholas , Wang Tao , Wilkinson Toby
Published: November 2015

A comparison of the evidence for the earliest scripts in different parts of the world suggests that an apparent preponderance of ceremonial; and symbolic usage should not be interpreted too literally. It seems to have more to do with archaeological preservation–the better survival in archaeological contexts of the durable materials preferred as vehicles for ceremonial texts–than with any deep-seated differences in the function of the scripts. It may well be that the earliest Chinese, Egyptian or Mesoamerican texts were largely as utilitarian in their application as those of Mesopotamia.
Sea-level change and shore-line evolution in Aegean Greece since Upper Palaeolithic time
Authors: Lambeck Kurt
Published: November 2015

‘As the glaciation ended, the ice melted and the sea-level rose.’ Yes — but it has not been as simple as that, as the Earth has adjusted in several ways to the changing surface-loads it suffers under ice and under weight of water. The important issues are set out in a simple mathematical treatment, and their varied consequences are shown for Greece and especially for the Greek coastal plains and the Greek islands, where the impact on human settlement has been large.
Drift sands, lakes, and soils: the multiphase Holocene history of the Laarder Wasmeren area near Hilversum, the Netherlands
Authors: Sevink J. , Koster E.A. , van Geel B. , Wallinga J.
Published: November 2015

A unique complex of multiphased Holocene drift sands and paleosols, with at least two lacustrine phases, was discovered during a major sanitation project in the Laarder Wasmeren area near Hilversum, the Netherlands. The complex could be studied in detail, highly facilitated by the excellent and large-scale exposure of the various deposits and soils. OSL dating was used to establish ages of the phases, where possible differentiating between time of deposition and time of burial by taking into account the potential effects of bioturbation. Pollen analysis served to reconstruct the vegetation during the various phases.

A first minor phase of aeolian activity already started before approx. 5,000 BC, followed around 4,000 BC by a second phase and a rather massive third phase around 3,000 BC. After a long phase of soil formation, the latest, massive drift sand phase started around the 14th to 15th century. It clearly represents the classic drift sand phase that started in the Late Middle Ages in the Netherlands. Sand drifting followed on soil forming phases during which the vegetation became increasingly dominated by ericaceous plants and culminated in heathlands. The first three aeolian phases and associated heathlands are much older than generally assumed for heathland and drift sand to occur in the Netherlands. Moreover, podzolisation was found to have started very early, true podzols already occurring before 4,000 BC.

Around 3,000 BC groundwater in the area reached a maximum altitude of about 230 cm +NAP, resulting in local open water in the area. This rise is probably linked to the development of the Dutch coastal area, where at that time peat accumulated and drainage was poor, inducing a rise of the groundwater level in ‘het Gooi’. This groundwater level fell later on, to never reach this altitude again. The Groot Wasmeer was formed by local stagnation on a slowly permeable podzol and already reached a level of 320-325 cm +NAP by 400 BC, which more or less equals its 20thcentury level.

The results demonstrate that earlier concepts on the occurrence and age of aeolian phases, podzols and heathland vegetations in the Netherlands are far too schematic, and that early, pre-agricultural cultures may already have had an impact on the stability of fragile cover sand landscapes, e.g. through burning. Results are in line with those from several contemporary studies on early prehistoric cultures and their impact in river dune areas in the Central and Eastern Netherlands.
3.—A Criterion for the Existence of Solutions of Non-linear Elliptic Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Deuel Johanna , Hess Peter
Published: November 2015

Synopsis

By a new method it is proved that a non-linear elliptic boundary value problem of rather general type admits a weak solution lying between a given weak lower solution ϕ and a given weak upper solution ψ≧ϕ
IDENTIFYING CONSERVATION PRIORITY AREAS IN THE MARAÑÓN VALLEY (PERU) BASED ON FLORISTIC INVENTORIES
Authors: Marcelo-Peña J. L. , Huamantupa I. , Särkinen T. , Tomazello M.
Published: November 2015

In this study, we report species diversity and endemism of the poorly known but highly diverse Seasonally Dry Tropical Forest (SDTF) flora of the Marañón valley in northern Peru. We characterise woody vascular plant species diversity across the valley in order to define the conservation value of the area at national and international level. Based on 32 rapid botanical inventories, 92 plots of 50 × 20 m, and a herbarium study across local and international herbaria, we report 440 woody vascular plant species of which 143 (33%) are endemic to the valley. Two centres of endemism within the valley are identified, each with clear elevational zonation of diversity. Data show that the Marañón valley is a good representative of Peruvian SDTFs as a whole, with an average of 56% SDTF species and 78% SDTF genera found in the one valley. The results show that there is wide variation in the set of dominant species across the valley, and that many local endemics are locally abundant unlike in neighbouring SDTFs where the dominant species are all geographically widespread. Our results demonstrate that the Marañón includes a rare combination of both nationally representative yet globally unique plant species, which makes the valley an ideal conservation target. The high level of endemism structured within elevational zones implies that conservation areas should be established across elevational zones in order to maximise the protection of this globally unique flora.
Improving Indian Summer Monsoon Prediction
Authors: Strelich Lily
Published: November 2015

A new study analyzes temperature and moisture variations in different layers of the atmosphere to improve forecasting of Indian summer monsoon precipitation patterns.
New Study Reveals How Much Groundwater Remains
Authors: Kelleher Shannon
Published: November 2015

Researchers have calculated for the first time the volumes of recently accumulated groundwater reserves worldwide—the "young" groundwater that most of humanity depends on.
Tuning magnetotransport in a compensated semimetal at the atomic scale
Authors: Wang Lin , Gutiérrez-Lezama Ignacio , Barreteau Céline , Ubrig Nicolas , Giannini Enrico , Morpurgo Alberto F.
Published: November 2015

Either in bulk form, or in atomically thin crystals, layered transition metal dichalcogenides continuously reveal new phenomena. The latest example is 1T’-WTe2, a semimetal found to exhibit the largest known magnetoresistance in the bulk, and predicted to become a topological insulator in strained monolayers. Here we show that reducing the thickness through exfoliation enables the electronic properties of WTe2 to be tuned, which allows us to identify the mechanisms responsible for the observed magnetotransport down to the atomic scale. The longitudinal resistance and the unconventional magnetic field dependence of the Hall resistance are reproduced quantitatively by a classical two-band model for crystals as thin as six monolayers, whereas a crossover to an Anderson insulator occurs for thinner crystals. Besides establishing the origin of the magnetoresistance of WTe2, our results represent a complete validation of the classical theory for two-band electron-hole transport, and indicate that atomically thin WTe2 layers remain gapless semimetals.
Nuclear factor, erythroid 2-like 2-associated molecular signature predicts lung cancer survival
Authors: Qian Zhongqing , Zhou Tong , Gurguis Christopher I. , Xu Xiaoyan , Wen Qing , Lv Jingzhu , Fang Fang , Hecker Louise , Cress Anne E. , Natarajan Viswanathan , Jacobson Jeffrey R. , Zhang Donna D. , Garcia Joe G. N. , Wang Ting
Published: November 2015

Nuclear factor, erythroid 2-like 2 (NFE2L2), a transcription factor also known as NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), is a key cytoprotective gene that regulates critical antioxidant and stress-responsive genes. Nrf2 has been demonstrated to be a promising therapeutic target and useful biomarker in malignant disease. We hypothesized that NFE2L2-mediated gene expression would reflect cancer severity and progression. We conducted a meta-analysis of microarray data for 240 NFE2L2-mediated genes that were enriched in tumor tissues. We then developed a risk scoring system based on NFE2L2 gene expression profiling and designated 50 tumor-associated genes as the NFE2L2-associated molecular signature (NAMS). We tested the relationship between this gene expression signature and both recurrence-free survival and overall survival in lung cancer patients. We find that NAMS predicts clinical outcome in the training cohort and in 12 out of 20 validation cohorts. Cox proportional hazard regressions indicate that NAMS is a robust prognostic gene signature, independent of other clinical and pathological factors including patient age, gender, smoking, gene alteration, MYC level and cancer stage. NAMS is an excellent predictor of recurrence-free survival and overall survival in human lung cancer. This gene signature represents a promising prognostic biomarker in human lung cancer.
Fingerprint resampling: A generic method for efficient resampling
Authors: Mestdagh Merijn , Verdonck Stijn , Duisters Kevin , Tuerlinckx Francis
Published: November 2015

In resampling methods, such as bootstrapping or cross validation, a very similar computational problem (usually an optimization procedure) is solved over and over again for a set of very similar data sets. If it is computationally burdensome to solve this computational problem once, the whole resampling method can become unfeasible. However, because the computational problems and data sets are so similar, the speed of the resampling method may be increased by taking advantage of these similarities in method and data. As a generic solution, we propose to learn the relation between the resampled data sets and their corresponding optima. Using this learned knowledge, we are then able to predict the optima associated with new resampled data sets. First, these predicted optima are used as starting values for the optimization process. Once the predictions become accurate enough, the optimization process may even be omitted completely, thereby greatly decreasing the computational burden. The suggested method is validated using two simple problems (where the results can be verified analytically) and two real-life problems (i.e., the bootstrap of a mixed model and a generalized extreme value distribution). The proposed method led on average to a tenfold increase in speed of the resampling method.
Operational derivation of Boltzmann distribution with Maxwell’s demon model
Authors: Hosoya Akio , Maruyama Koji , Shikano Yutaka
Published: November 2015

The resolution of the Maxwell’s demon paradox linked thermodynamics with information theory through information erasure principle. By considering a demon endowed with a Turing-machine consisting of a memory tape and a processor, we attempt to explore the link towards the foundations of statistical mechanics and to derive results therein in an operational manner. Here, we present a derivation of the Boltzmann distribution in equilibrium as an example, without hypothesizing the principle of maximum entropy. Further, since the model can be applied to non-equilibrium processes, in principle, we demonstrate the dissipation-fluctuation relation to show the possibility in this direction.
Defining habitat covariates in camera-trap based occupancy studies
Authors: Niedballa Jürgen , Sollmann Rahel , Mohamed Azlan bin , Bender Johannes , Wilting Andreas
Published: November 2015

In species-habitat association studies, both the type and spatial scale of habitat covariates need to match the ecology of the focal species. We assessed the potential of high-resolution satellite imagery for generating habitat covariates using camera-trapping data from Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, within an occupancy framework. We tested the predictive power of covariates generated from satellite imagery at different resolutions and extents (focal patch sizes, 10–500 m around sample points) on estimates of occupancy patterns of six small to medium sized mammal species/species groups. High-resolution land cover information had considerably more model support for small, patchily distributed habitat features, whereas it had no advantage for large, homogeneous habitat features. A comparison of different focal patch sizes including remote sensing data and an in-situ measure showed that patches with a 50-m radius had most support for the target species. Thus, high-resolution satellite imagery proved to be particularly useful in heterogeneous landscapes and can be used as a surrogate for certain in-situ measures, reducing field effort in logistically challenging environments. Additionally, remote sensed data provide more flexibility in defining appropriate spatial scales, which we show to impact estimates of wildlife-habitat associations.
Targeted cellular ablation based on the morphology of malignant cells
Authors: Ivey Jill W. , Latouche Eduardo L. , Sano Michael B. , Rossmeisl John H. , Davalos Rafael V. , Verbridge Scott S.
Published: November 2015

Treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is especially challenging due to a shortage of methods to preferentially target diffuse infiltrative cells and therapy-resistant glioma stem cell populations. Here we report a physical treatment method based on electrical disruption of cells, whose action depends strongly on cellular morphology. Interestingly, numerical modeling suggests that while outer lipid bilayer disruption induced by long pulses (~100 μs) is enhanced for larger cells, short pulses (~1 μs) preferentially result in high fields within the cell interior, which scale in magnitude with nucleus size. Because enlarged nuclei represent a reliable indicator of malignancy, this suggested a means of preferentially targeting malignant cells. While we demonstrate killing of both normal and malignant cells using pulsed electric fields (PEFs) to treat spontaneous canine GBM, we proposed that properly tuned PEFs might provide targeted ablation based on nuclear size. Using 3D hydrogel models of normal and malignant brain tissues, which permit high-resolution interrogation during treatment testing, we confirmed that PEFs could be tuned to preferentially kill cancerous cells. Finally, we estimated the nuclear envelope electric potential disruption needed for cell death from PEFs. Our results may be useful in safely targeting the therapy-resistant cell niches that cause recurrence of GBM tumors.
Caenorhabditis elegans exhibit a coupling between the defecation motor program and directed locomotion
Authors: Nagy Stanislav , Huang Yung-Chi , Alkema Mark J. , Biron David
Published: November 2015

Distinct motor programs can be coupled to refine the repertoire of behavior dynamics. However, mechanisms underlying such coupling are poorly understood. The defecation motor program (DMP) of C. elegans is composed of a succession of body contraction and expulsion steps, performed repeatedly with a period of 50–60 sec. We show that recurring patterns of directed locomotion are executed in tandem with, co-reset and co-terminate with the DMP cycle. Calcium waves in the intestine and proton signaling were shown to regulate the DMP. We found that genetic manipulations affecting these calcium dynamics regulated the corresponding patterns of directed locomotion. Moreover, we observed the initiation of a recurring locomotion pattern 10 seconds prior to the posterior body contraction, suggesting that the synchronized motor program may initiate prior to the DMP. This study links two multi-step motor programs executed by C. elegans in synchrony, utilizing non-neuronal tissue to drive directed locomotion.