bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intracortical astrocyte subpopulations defined by astrocyte reporter Mice in the adult brain
Authors: Morel Lydie , Men Yuqin , Chiang Ming S. R. , Tian Yang , Jin Shijie , Yelick Julia , Higashimori Haruki , Yang Yongjie
Published: November 2018

Although historically regarded as a homogeneous cell population, astrocytes in different brain regions exhibit differences in their physiological properties, such as gap‐junction coupling, glutamate uptake dynamics, and intracellular Ca2+ response. Recent in vivo RNA profiles have further demonstrated the molecular heterogeneity of astrocytes in the adult CNS. Astrocyte heterogeneity exists not only inter‐regionally but also intra‐regionally. Despite the characteristic laminal organization of cortical layers and multiple sources of radial glia progenitors for (astro)gliogenesis, the molecular profile and functional properties of astroglial subpopulations in the adult cerebral cortex remain essentially undefined. Using two astrocyte reporter mouse lines: eaat2‐tdTomato and Bac aldh1l1‐eGFP, we identified tdT−eGFP+, tdTloweGFP+, and tdThigheGFP+ astroglial subpopulations (in an approximate 1:7:2 ratio) within the cortex. The tdT−eGFP+ astrocyte population is selectively localized at layers I–II and exhibits increased resting membrane potential and membrane resistance but reduced functional expression of the potassium channel Kir4.1. We also isolated individual astrocyte subpopulations through fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) and examined their transcriptome differences by RNA‐seq. We found that the whole‐genome transcriptional profiles of tdT−eGFP+ astrocytes are drastically different from that of tdTloweGFP+ and tdThigheGFP+ astrocytes. Particularly, elevated levels of several nonastrocyte genes that are typically specific to other glial cells, such as mog, mobp, Iba1, and pdgfrα, are observed in tdT−eGFP+ astrocytes, suggesting a less‐specific molecular identity of these astrocytes. Overall, our study has unveiled molecular differences between adult cortical astroglial subpopulations, shedding new light on understanding their unique functions in the adult cortex.
Sex differences in own and other body perception
Authors: Burke Sarah M. , Majid D. S. Adnan , Manzouri Amir H. , Moody Teena , Feusner Jamie D. , Savic Ivanka
Published: November 2018

Own body perception, and differentiating and comparing one's body to another person's body, are common cognitive functions that have relevance for self‐identity and social interactions. In several psychiatric conditions, including anorexia nervosa, body dysmorphic disorder, gender dysphoria, and autism spectrum disorder, self and own body perception, as well as aspects of social communication are disturbed. Despite most of these conditions having skewed prevalence sex ratios, little is known about whether the neural basis of own body perception differs between the sexes. We addressed this question by investigating brain activation using functional magnetic resonance imaging during a Body Perception task in 15 male and 15 female healthy participants. Participants viewed their own body, bodies of same‐sex, or opposite‐sex other people, and rated the degree that they appeared like themselves. We found that men and women did not differ in the pattern of brain activation during own body perception compared to a scrambled control image. However, when viewing images of other bodies of same‐sex or opposite‐sex, men showed significantly stronger activations in attention‐related and reward‐related brain regions, whereas women engaged stronger activations in striatal, medial‐prefrontal, and insular cortices, when viewing the own body compared to other images of the opposite sex. It is possible that other body images, particularly of the opposite sex, may be of greater salience for men, whereas images of own bodies may be more salient for women. These observations provide tentative neurobiological correlates to why women may be more vulnerable than men to conditions involving own body perception.
Genetic architecture of hippocampal subfields on standard resolution MRI: How the parts relate to the whole
Authors: Elman Jeremy A. , Panizzon Matthew S. , Gillespie Nathan A. , Hagler Donald J. , Fennema‐Notestine Christine , Eyler Lisa T. , McEvoy Linda K. , Neale Michael C. , Lyons Michael J. , Franz Carol E. , Dale Anders M. , Kremen William S.
Published: November 2018

The human hippocampus can be subdivided into subfields with unique functional properties and differential vulnerability to disease or neuropsychiatric conditions. Identifying genes that confer susceptibility to such processes is an important goal in developing treatments. Recent advances in automatic subfield segmentation from magnetic resonance images make it possible to use these measures as phenotypes in large‐scale genome‐wide association studies. Such analyses are likely to rely largely on standard resolution (~1 mm isotropic) T1‐weighted images acquired on 3.0T scanners. Determining whether the genetic architecture of subfields can be detected from such images is therefore an important step. We used Freesurfer v6.0 to segment hippocampal subfields in two large twin studies, the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging and the Human Connectome Project. We estimated heritability of subfields and the genetic overlap with total hippocampal volume. Heritability was similar across samples, but little genetic variance remained after accounting for genetic influences on total hippocampal volume. Importantly, we examined genetic relationships between subfields to determine whether subfields can be grouped based on a smaller number of underlying, genetically independent factors. We identified three genetic factors in both samples, but the high degree of cross loadings precluded formation of genetically distinct groupings of subfields. These results confirm the reliability of Freesurfer v6.0 generated subfields across samples for phenotypic analyses. However, the current results suggest that it will be difficult for large‐scale genetic analyses to identify subfield‐specific genes that are distinct from both total hippocampal volume and other subfields using segmentations generated from standard resolution T1‐weighted images.
The developmental neural substrates of item and serial order components of verbal working memory
Authors: Attout Lucie , Ordonez Magro Laura , Szmalec Arnaud , Majerus Steve
Published: November 2018

Behavioral and developmental studies have made a critical distinction between item and serial order processing components of verbal working memory (WM). This functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study determined the extent to which item and serial order WM components are characterized by specialized neural networks already in young children or whether this specialization emerges at a later developmental stage. Total of 59 children aged 7–12 years performed item and serial order short‐term probe recognition tasks in an fMRI experiment. While a left frontoparietal network was recruited in both item and serial order WM conditions, the right intraparietal sulcus was selectively involved in the serial order WM condition. This neural segregation was modulated by age, with both networks becoming increasingly separated in older children. Our results indicate a progressive specialization of networks involved in item and order WM processes during cognitive development.
Increased salivary AKR1B10 level: Association with progression and poor prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ko Hui‐Hsin , Peng Hsin‐Hui , Cheng Shih‐Jung , Kuo Mark Yen‐Ping
Published: November 2018

Background

Aldo‐keto reductase family 1 member B10 (AKR1B10) expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissue specimens is correlated with the progression and prognosis of OSCC.

Methods

Saliva samples were obtained from 35 normal controls and 86 patients with OSCC before cancer surgery. The AKR1B10 levels were determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

The mean salivary AKR1B10 levels were significantly higher in the patients with OSCC than in the normal controls (P < .001). Higher salivary AKR1B10 levels were significantly associated with larger tumor size, more advanced clinical stage, and areca quid chewing habit. Patients with OSCC with a higher salivary AKR1B10 level (>646 pg/mL) had a significantly poorer survival than those with a lower (≤646 pg/mL) salivary AKR1B10 level (P = .026).

Conclusion

The salivary AKR1B10 level may be a promising biomarker for screening high‐risk patients with OSCC and monitoring the progression of OSCC.
Synthesis of Various Water Soluble and Stable Copper Complexes Bearing N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Ligands and Their Activity in DNA Alkylation
Authors: Geigle Stefanie , Rasale Dnyaneshwar B. , Gillingham Dennis
Published: November 2018

We report here the synthesis and catalytic evaluation in DNA alkylation of a series of water‐soluble copper complexes bearing N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands. The NHC ligands were chosen to cover the gamut of commonly used scaffold variations, but in many cases, copper complexes could not be obtained or were unstable. Nevertheless, we identified several complexes that were both stable and catalytically active. Our studies provide guidance and starting scaffolds for any researchers interested in aqueous copper(I) catalysis. A key practical aspect of our findings is that azide‐bearing copper‐NHC complexes are excellent substrates for the azide‐alkyne cycloaddition, which allows late‐stage tailoring of the copper complexes.
Measuring angle of progression by transperineal ultrasonography to predict successful instrumental and cesarean deliveries during prolonged second stage of labor
Authors: Chan Viola Y.T. , Lau Wai‐lam , So Mike K.P. , Leung Wing‐cheong
Published: November 2018

Objective

To compare the angle of progression (AoP) measured by transperineal ultrasonography before indicating an instrumental delivery or cesarean delivery.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted among women with singleton term pregnancies with prolonged second stage of labor at Kwong Wah Hospital, Hong Kong, China, between May 16, 2011, and May 25, 2016. Transabdominal and transperineal ultrasonography were performed to determine fetal head position and AoP, respectively, both at rest and during uterine contraction with pushing. Mode of delivery was decided after vaginal examination without relying on ultrasonography.

Results

Of 143 women, 116 underwent successful instrumental delivery and 27 underwent cesarean delivery. Median AoP was 153.0° in the instrumental group versus 139.0° in the cesarean group at rest (P<0.001), and 182.5° in the instrumental group versus 156.5° in the cesarean group during contraction (P<0.001). The best predictive cutoff AoP for successful instrumental delivery was 138.7° at rest (sensitivity 86.2%, specificity 51.9%) and 160.9° during contraction (sensitivity 87.1%, specificity 74.1%). No between‐group differences in AoP were found for ease of vacuum extraction at rest (P=0.457) or during contraction with pushing (P=0.095).

Conclusion

The AoP predicted approximately 80% of successful instrumental deliveries performed for prolonged second stage of labor.
Evaluation of the renoprotective effect of nano turmeric against toxic dose of copper sulfate: Role of vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1, kidney injury molecule‐1, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 protein expressions
Authors: Alharbi Bshayer , Fadda Laila , Ali Hanaa M
Published: November 2018

The aim of this study was to compare the potential renoprotective effects of turmeric (TM) and nano turmeric (NTM) with those of desferrioxamine (DSM) against copper sulfate (CS)‐induced toxicity. Rats were administered a toxic dose of CS with TM, NTM, and DSM for 1 week. Next, serum‐urea creatinine, uric acid, interleukin (IL)‐10, c‐reactive protein (CRP), and caspase‐3 levels; renal nitric oxide (NO), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1), kidney injury molecule (KIM)‐1, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT‐3) protein expression; and nuclear factor (NF)‐κB and B‐cell lymphoma ‐2 (Bcl‐2) messenger RNA expression levels were estimated. Administration of the investigated antioxidants downregulated the marked increase in urea, creatinine, uric acid, CRP, caspase‐3, NO, MDA, VCAM‐1, kidney injury molecule (KIM‐1), STAT‐3, NF‐κB, and DNA fragmentation, and increased Bcl‐2, IL‐10, GSH, and SOD levels induced by CS. The histopathological examination confirmed the effects of the antioxidants on the investigated biochemical parameters. Interestingly, NTM exhibited a superior renoprotective effect, which was comparable with that of DSM. In conclusion, NTM was shown to be a promising candidate against CS‐induced toxicity, and several molecular mechanisms were implicated in the CS‐induced renotoxicity as well as the treatment effects of NTM.
Developmental effects of trichloroacetate in Zebrafish embryos: Association with the production of superoxide anion
Authors: Issa Omar , Hassoun Ezdihar A. , Williams Frederick E.
Published: November 2018

To assess the developmental toxicity of trichloroacetate (TCA), zebrafish embryos were exposed to 8 to 48 mM of TCA and evaluated for developmental milestones from 8‐ to 144‐hour postfertilization (hpf). All developmental toxicities are reported in this paper. Embryos were found to have developed edema in response to 16 to 48 mM of TCA exposure at 32‐ to 80‐hpf, experienced delay in hatching success in response to 24 to 48 mM at 80‐hpf. Lordosis was observed in developing embryos exposed to 40 to 48 mM at 55‐ to 144‐hpf. The observed toxic effects of TCA exposure were found to be concentration and exposure period independent. Effects were found to be associated with increases in superoxide anion production, but these increases were also found to be concentration and time independent. TCA resulted in concentration‐dependent increases in embryonic lethality at 144‐hpf, with an LC50 determined to be 29.7 mM.
Correlation between SALL4 stemness marker and bone morphogenetic protein signaling genes in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Assarnia Sogand , Ardalan Khales Sima , Forghanifard Mohammad Mahdi
Published: November 2018

SALL4, as a stemness marker, plays a key role in the maintenance of pluripotency and self‐renewal of cancer stem cells. To elucidate probable linkage between SALL4 stemness marker and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) cell signaling pathway, we aimed to analyze the expression levels of the related genes in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients. Tumoral and corresponding margin normal tissues from 50 treatment‐naive ESCC patients were subjected for expression analysis using relative comparative real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. There were significant correlations between SALL4 mRNA and BMP signaling target genes expression including SIZN1, VENTX, and DIDO1 (P < 0.01). Tight associations of gene expression were observed in primary stages of tumor progression (stages I/II), and the invaded tumors to the adventitia (T3/T4). Furthermore, significant correlations between the expression of BMP signaling target genes were observed (P < 0.01). SALL4 may play role in tumorigenesis and tumor cell invasiveness of ESCC through correlation with BMP signaling genes.
Retracted: Long noncoding RNA HAGLROS regulates apoptosis and autophagy in colorectal cancer cells via sponging miR‐100 to target ATG5 expression
Authors: Zheng Yansheng , Tan Kanglian , Huang Haipeng
Published: November 2018

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between the expression of HOXD antisense growth‐associated long noncoding RNA (HAGLROS) and prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), as well as the roles and regulatory mechanism of HAGLROS in CRC development. The HAGLROS expression in CRC tissues and cells was detected. The correlation between HAGLROS expression and survival time of CRC patients was investigated. Moreover, HAGLROS was overexpressed and suppressed in HCT‐116 cells, followed by detection of cell viability, apoptosis, and the expression of apoptosis‐related proteins and autophagy markers. Furthermore, the association between HAGLROS and miR‐100 and the potential targets of miR‐100 were investigated. Besides, the regulatory relationship between HAGLROS and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway was elucidated. The results showed that HAGLROS was highly expressed in CRC tissues and cells. Highly expression of HAGLROS correlated with a shorter survival time of CRC patients. Moreover, knockdown of HAGLROS in HCT‐116 cells induced apoptosis by increasing the expression of Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio, cleaved‐caspase‐3, and cleaved‐caspase‐9, and inhibited autophagy by decreasing the expression of LC3II/LC3I and Beclin‐1 and increasing P62 expression. Furthermore, HAGLROS negatively regulated the expression of miR‐100, and HAGLROS controlled HCT‐116 cell apoptosis and autophagy through negatively regulation of miR‐100. Autophagy related 5 (ATG5) was verified as a functional target of miR‐100 and miR‐100 regulated HCT‐116 cell apoptosis and autophagy through targeting ATG5. Besides, HAGLROS overexpression activated phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR) pathway. In conclusion, a highly expression of HAGLROS correlated with shorter survival time of CRC patients. Downregulation of HAGLROS may induce apoptosis and inhibit autophagy in CRC cells by regulation of miR‐100/ATG5 axis and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
The effects of particle density in moxa smoke on the ultrastructure of knee cartilage and expressions of TNF‐α, IL‐1b, BAX, and Bcl‐2 mRNA in a rat model for osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhang Jiangtao , Li QiYi , Chang ShouYa
Published: November 2018

Background

The effectiveness of smokeless moxa and other means to reduce exposure are extensively investigated with regards to the health consequences of inhalation of moxa smoke, and clinical studies indicate that classical moxibustion is superior to smokeless moxa. This study aims to quantify the effects of particle density in moxa smoke on the clinical outcome with an established model, demonstrated to be effective for classical moxibustion.

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to explore the effects of particle density in moxa smoke on the ultrastructure of knee cartilage and expression of cytokine, tissue necrosing factor–alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin 1 beta (IL‐1b), apoptosis regulator, B‐cell lymphoma‐2 (Bcl‐2), and BAX in a rat model for inflammatory joint disease.

Methods

Fifty healthy experimental rats were randomly divided into five groups, including normal control, model control, and moxa exposure groups with low, medium, and high particle density, and n = 10/group. In addition, a knee osteoarthritis model was duplicated in the model control and moxa exposure groups. Finally, the ultrastructure of knee cartilage was observed using transmission electron microscopy, and messenger RNA (mRNA) expressions of TNF‐α, IL‐1b, BAX, and Bcl‐2 were determined with quantitative fluorescence methodology.

Results

In the model control and moxa exposure groups, knee cartilage indicated that histologic changes with the degree of injury were inversely proportional to moxa smoke density. The mRNA expressions of TNF‐α, IL‐1b, and BAX in synovial fluid, as an acute phase reactant, were similarly inversely related to moxa smoke density, but significantly increased. In contrast, Bcl‐2, as an antiapoptotic, was substantially decreased in the model, while its levels were directly proportional to moxa smoke density. Besides, the ratio of Bcl‐2/BAX mRNA was sharply decreased in the model group, but with levels proportional to moxa smoke density.

Conclusions

A correlation was found between the particle density in moxa smoke and degree of injury to knee cartilage, favoring higher particle densities. This can be partially related to the suppression of the inflammatory effects of TNF‐α, IL‐1b, enhancement of the antiapoptotic effects of Bcl‐2, and, nevertheless, suppression of the apoptotic effects of BAX. Finally, the protective effect of antiapoptotic is one of the key mechanisms for an ambient moxa smoking environment.
A dual target of Plasmepsin IX and X: Unveiling the atomistic superiority of a core chemical scaffold in malaria therapy
Authors: Munsamy Geraldene , Agoni Clement , Soliman Mahmoud E. S.
Published: November 2018

Plasmepsin IX and X, members of the prominent aspartic family of proteases whose function were hitherto unknown have only recently been established as key mediators of erythrocyte invasion and egress of the virulent malarial parasite. Inhibitor 49c, a potent antimalarial peptidomimetic inhibitor initially developed to target Plasmepsin II has lately been proven to exhibit potent inhibitory activity against Plasmepsin IX and X. However, the molecular and structural dynamics supporting its inhibitory activity remain inconclusive. Hindering the motion of the flap and hinge region of an aspartic protease remains essential for disabling the catalytic activity of the enzyme. Integrating molecular dynamic simulations coupled with other advanced biocomputational tools, we reveal the enhanced structural mechanistic competence of 49c in complex with Plasmepsin IX and X relative to Pepstatin. Pepstatin, a known aspartic protease inhibitor which actively hinders the opening and closing of the flap tip and flexible loop and consequently limits access to the catalytic aspartic residues, however, its administration has been related to elevated levels of toxicity. Thermodynamic calculations reveal a higher relative binding free energy associated with Plasmepsin IX and X in complex with 49c as opposed to Pepstatin. A relatively compact and structurally rigid 49c bound complexes sequel into the restriction of the flap and hinge residues by restraining cohesive movement, consequently hindering their “twisting motion” from transpiring. Findings unveil an atomistic perspective into the structural superiority of 49c in complex with Plasmepsin IX and X.
High performance thermoelectric materials based on metal organic coordination polymers through first‐principles band engineering
Authors: Khan Jahanzeb , Liu Yunpeng , Zhao Tianqi , Geng Hua , Xu Wei , Shuai Zhigang
Published: November 2018

Metal organic coordination polymers (MOCPs) provide an intriguing platform to design functional thermoelectric materials through modifying metal atoms, organic ligands, etc. Based on density functional theory (DFT) coupled with Boltzmann transport theory, the thermoelectric properties of several MOCPs, which is designed by intercalating organic linkers ranging from benzene to pentacene between two inorganic units, have been investigated. We found that the interplay of d orbital of Ni atom and π orbitals of the organic linkers play an important role in band engineering and then thermoelectric efficiency. Combining the high conductivity for π orbitals of organic ligands and high Seebeck coefficient of the d orbital of Ni atom, such intercalated MOCPs provide new way to design high performance thermoelectric materials. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
What prevents doctors from seeking help for stress and burnout? A mixed‐methods investigation among metropolitan and regional‐based australian doctors
Authors: Clough Bonnie A. , March Sonja , Leane Sheena , Ireland Michael J.
Published: November 2018

Objective

Despite the increased risk of experiencing mental health concerns, particularly related to stress and burnout, psychological help‐seeking among medical doctors is typically low. This study examined the barriers to treatment experienced by doctors for stress and burnout‐related difficulties.

Methods

A mixed‐methods design was adopted. The quantitative sample comprised 274 Australian‐based medical doctors. Qualitative interviews were conducted with a subsample of 20 (11 regional and 9 metropolitans) doctors. For triangulation, five stakeholder interviews were also conducted with representatives of the profession.

Results

Time was the greatest barrier to treatment. Qualitatively, doctors identified barriers such as stigma and fear of professional consequences, and particularly among regional doctors, access to services and professional culture.

Conclusions

There is a need for tailored strategies to address barriers to psychological treatment among doctors for improving service access and mental health.
Association and genome analyses to propose putative candidate genes for malt quality traits
Authors: Daba Sintayehu , Horsley Richard , Schwarz Paul , Chao Shaoman , Capettini Flavio , Mohammadi Mohsen
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

We studied the genetics of nine malt quality traits using association genetics in a panel of North Dakota, ICARDA, and Ethiopian barley lines. Grain samples harvested from Bekoji in 2011 and 2012 were used.

RESULTS

The mapping panel revealed strong population structure explained by inflorescence‐type, geographic origin, and breeding history. North Dakota germplasm were superior in malt quality traits and they can be donors to improve malt quality properties. We identified 106 marker‐trait associations (MTAs) for the nine traits, representing 81 genomic regions across all barley chromosomes. Chromosomes 3H, 5H, and 7H contained most of the MTAs (58.5%). Nearly 18.5% of these genomic regions contained two to three malt quality traits. Within ±250 kb of 81 genomic regions, we recovered 348 barley genes, with some potential impacting malt quality. These include invertase, β‐fructofuranosidase, α‐glucosidase, serine carboxypeptidase, and bidirectional sugar transporter SWEET14‐like protein. Eighteen of these genes were also previously reported in the Hordeum Toolbox, and 17 of them highly expressed during the germination process.

CONCLUSION

The results from this study invite further follow‐up functional characterization experiments to relate the genes with individual malt quality traits with higher confidence. It also provides germplasm resources for malt barley improvement. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of cryoconcentration process on phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity in apple juice
Authors: Zielinski Acácio AF , Zardo Danianni M , Alberti Aline , Bortolini Débora G , Benvenutti Laís , Demiate Ivo M , Nogueira Alessandro
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Freeze concentration is an alternative process where bioactive compounds are preserved during the processing of juice concentrates. This study proposed a simple and cheaper cryoconcentration process assisted by centrifugation in apple juice.

RESULTS

The levels of phenolics increased significantly (P < 0.05) with each freeze concentration cycle that was performed. Furthermore, the process resulted in an average increase in the concentration of phenolics of 1.9, 2.9 and 3.8 times for the first, second and third steps of the concentration, respectively. In relation to phenolics, the antioxidant potential, which was evaluated by radical scavenging activity and reduction power, also increased with the cryoconcentration steps. The influence of the phenolics on the in vitro antioxidant activity was confirmed by a significant correlation between the antioxidant assays and total phenolics, flavonoids, flavan‐3‐ols, and flavonols (r > 0.70).

CONCLUSION

The increase in antioxidant activity may have been attributed to the increase in the phenolic compounds in the apple juices because of the cryoconcentration process. Therefore, this could be an excellent natural product to supplement and enrich blends, juices, ciders, smoothies, and jams in order to improve the sensorial, nutritional and antioxidant properties. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation of microcapsule antioxidative wall materials of pine nut oil by the Maillard reaction
Authors: Guo Yang , Bao Yi‐Hong , Chai Yang‐Yang
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Maillard reaction products contribute to the amelioration of the biological functions or physical properties of foods and can be used to make dependable antioxidant wall materials for microcapsules of pine nut oil. The present study aimed to analyze the effects of temperature on the Maillard reaction of dry heat processes using gelatin/gum arabic (GE/GA) or gelatin/gum arabic/maltodextrin (GE/GA/MD) models and the products of the Maillard reaction as encapsulants to protect pine nut oil, as well as to evaluate the characteristics of the microcapsules.

RESULTS

The grafting degree of the product increased with the temperature increments during the Maillard reaction. Sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that the polysaccharide covalently linked to the protein. The antioxidant capability of the Maillard products at 80 °C was the highest. The 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical‐scavenging activity, lipid peroxidation‐inhibiting activity and reducing power of the GE/GA/MD model were higher than those of the GE/GA model. With in vitro digestion of Maillard products, GE/GA/MD pine nut oil microcapsules exhibited greater oil release in artificial gastric and enteric juices. Microencapsulated pine nut oil had more stable oxygen, which protected the oil, compared to unencapsulated pine nut oil.

CONCLUSION

Temperature affects the degree of the Maillard reaction on GE/GA and GE/GA/MD models. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Pleomorphic adenoma of the head and neck in children: presentation and management
Authors: Dombrowski Natasha D. , Wolter Nikolaus E. , Irace Alexandria L. , Cunningham Michael J. , Vargas Sara O. , Perez‐Atayde Antonio R. , Robson Caroline D. , Rahbar Reza
Published: November 2018

Objective

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign salivary gland neoplasm in children. Recurrence and malignant transformation are concerns necessitating proper treatment.

The goal of this research was to discuss the presentation, evaluation, and management of pediatric pleomorphic adenoma of the head and neck.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of patients under 20 years of age treated for pleomorphic adenoma of the head and neck between 1998 and 2017. Data assessed included demographics, clinical presentation, imaging, treatment, complications, recurrence, and follow‐up.

Results

Forty‐one patients with pleomorphic adenoma were identified. Major salivary gland lesions were most common (n = 32, 78.0%); 78.1% (25 of 32) arising in the parotid and 21.9% (7 of 32) in the submandibular glands. Minor salivary gland lesions were removed from the palate (5 of 9, 55.6%), buccal mucosa (2 of 9, 22.2%), parapharyngeal space (1 of 9, 11.1%), and upper lip (1 of 9, 11.1%). Preoperative imaging was reviewed in 32 patients and consisted of nine ultrasound exams, 15 computerized tomography (CT) exams, and 23 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams. Multimodality imaging was performed in 14 of 32 patients. Surgical excision was performed in all patients. Postoperative complications included transient facial paresis (n = 9), Frey syndrome (n = 1), and bacterial pharyngitis (n = 1). Average length of follow‐up was 25.5 months; confirmed recurrence occurred in two patients (4.9%).

Conclusion

Evaluation of pleomorphic adenoma in children should include preoperative imaging. The goal of surgery should be complete surgical excision with negative margins. Rate of recurrence is low; however, prolonged monitoring is recommended.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 129:2603–2609, 2019
Turbulence‐mediated facilitation of resource uptake in patchy stream macrophytes
Authors: Cornacchia Loreta , Licci Sofia , Nepf Heidi , Folkard Andrew , van der Wal Daphne , van de Koppel Johan , Puijalon Sara , Bouma Tjeerd J.
Published: November 2018

Many landscapes are characterized by a patchy, rather than homogeneous, distribution of vegetation. Often this patchiness is composed of single‐species patches with contrasting traits, interacting with each other. To date, it is unknown whether patches of different species affect each other's uptake of resources by altering hydrodynamic conditions, and how this depends on their spatial patch configuration. Patches of two contrasting aquatic macrophyte species (i.e., dense canopy‐forming Callitriche and sparse canopy‐forming Groenlandia) were grown together in a racetrack flume and placed in different patch configurations. We measured 15NH4+ uptake rates and hydrodynamic properties along the centerline and the lateral edge of both patches. When the species with a taller, denser canopy (Callitriche) was located upstream of the shorter, sparser species (Groenlandia), it generated turbulence in its wake that enhanced nutrient uptake for the sparser Groenlandia. At the same time, Callitriche benefited from being located at a leading edge where it was exposed to higher mean velocity, as its canopy was too dense for turbulence to penetrate from upstream. Consistent with this, we found that ammonium uptake rates depended on turbulence level for the sparse Groenlandia and on mean flow velocity for the dense Callitriche, but Total Kinetic Energy was the best descriptor of uptake rates for both species. By influencing turbulence, macrophyte species interact with each other through facilitation of resource uptake. Hence, heterogeneity due to multispecific spatial patchiness has crucial implications for both species interactions and aquatic ecosystem functions, such as nitrogen retention.
Pallidal beta bursts in Parkinson's disease and dystonia
Authors: Lofredi Roxanne , Neumann Wolf‐Julian , Brücke Christof , Huebl Julius , Krauss Joachim K. , Schneider Gerd‐Helge , Kühn Andrea A.
Published: November 2018

Background

Exaggerated beta power has been discussed as a disease‐specific biomarker for Parkinson's disease (PD) and has recently been suggested to rely on prolonged bursts of subthalamic beta synchronization.

Objective

In this study, we test whether prolonged bursts are disease specific for beta activity in PD by comparison to oscillatory activity in dystonia.

Methods

Pallidal local field potentials were recorded from 5 PD patients ON and OFF dopaminergic medication and 5 dystonia patients. Synchronization of beta and low‐frequency oscillations in bursts was compared between groups with respect to their duration, amplitude, and rate.

Results

Pallidal beta bursts were longer in PD‐OFF than PD‐ON or dystonia (P < .05). PD‐ON and dystonia displayed similar beta burst dynamics. Low‐frequency burst features showed no differences across groups.

Conclusions

Prolonged burst duration appears as a disease‐specific feature for beta activity in PD across the basal ganglia. With dopaminergic medication, beta bursts in PD resemble those in dystonia, which supports the notion of short beta bursts as a physiological pattern. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Co‐ordinated expression of the VEGF system components in granulosa cells to develop a proangiogenic autocrine milieu during ovarian follicle development
Authors: Zamora‐Gutiérrez Diana , Guzmán Adrian , Hernández‐Coronado Cyndi G. , Castillo‐Juárez Héctor , Fierro Francisco , Gutiérrez Carlos G. , Bojalil Rafael , Rosales‐Torres Ana Ma.
Published: November 2018

In the present study, we investigated the temporal relationship between angiogenic and antiangiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor isoforms (VEGFxxxa and VEGFxxxb, respectively), the receptors VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, their soluble forms, and the kinases and the splicing factors regulating the synthesis of VEGF isoforms in healthy and atretic antral follicles. The results show a higher (p < 0.05) messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of
VEGF120a,
VEGF164a, and
VEGF120b in healthy than in atretic follicles, but the mRNA expression of
VEGF164b was not detected. The mRNA of serine–arginine protein kinase 1 (
SRPK1) was higher (
p < 0.05) in large healthy follicles than in large atretic follicles. In contrast, atretic follicles had higher mRNA expression of a soluble form of the receptor 2 of VEGF (
sVEGFR2) than healthy follicles (
p < 0.05). Additionally, we observed a positive relationship (
p < 0.05) between SRPK1 and serine–arginine‐rich splicing factor 1 (
SRSF1) with the angiogenic isoforms
VEGF120a and
VEGF164a and between CDC‐like kinases‐1 (
CLK1) and SRSF6 with the antiangiogenic
VEGF120b isoform. Principal components analysis (PCA) resulted in two PC explaining 71% of the variation, which was formed by the VEGF isoforms, the kinases and the splicing factor (PC1) and by the VEGF receptors (PC2). When PC analysis was carried out within follicular health status, there were no differences for PC1 between follicular status, whereas PC2 differed between healthy and atretic follicles. In conclusion, the higher mRNA expression for
VEGF120a and
VEGF164a, the low expression of
sVEGFR2, and absent expression of mRNA for
VEGF164b provide evidence of a proangiogenic autocrine milieu to support granulosa cells during follicle development.
Practices for Drawing Blood Samples from Teleost Fish
Authors: Duman Muhammed , Saticioglu Izzet Burcin , Suzer Bayram , Altun Soner
Published: November 2018

In the field of fish physiology, the species-specific parameters of blood, biochemistry, and hormones are especially unknown. The main reasons for this include difficulties in drawing blood from some fish species and nonstandardized blood reference values that change for fish weight, water temperature, and other environmental variables. Information and instructions for drawing blood from fish are limited, and there are few practical examples. Fish blood should be studied to determine metabolic disease and feeding disorders and also to improve rapid diagnostic kits for determining microbiologic diseases. This paper demonstrates methodologies for drawing blood from both aquarium and farmed fish and lists the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure, considering animal welfare and practicalities. Images and videos showing the different applications are also presented.
Motivate students by mapping out a path to transfer, graduation
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: November 2018

“I had a traditional college experience myself, but I just kind of fell into it [working with transfer students],” said Craig Howard, associate director of transfer admissions at the University of North Texas. For the last 12 years, Howard has recruited transfer students to various universities, the most recent being UNT. He shared thoughts on how to make your institution stand out in a crowded marketplace, the importance of strong transfer agreements, and traits to look for in students that will help determine if they're a good fit — or not — for your campus.
Ultra‐high molecular weight styrenic block copolymer/TPU blends for automotive applications: Influence of various compatibilizers
Authors: Gopalan Anagha M. , Naskar Kinsuk
Published: November 2018

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) based on new generation ultrahigh molecular weight styrene‐ethylene‐butylene‐styrene (SEBS) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) are developed and characterized especially for automotive applications. Influence of maleic anhydride grafted styrene‐ethylene‐butylene‐styrene (SEBS‐g‐MA) and maleic anhydride grafted ethylene propylene rubber (EPM‐g‐MA) as compatibilizers has been explored and compared on the blends of SEBS/TPU (60:40). The amount of compatibilizers was varied from 0 to 10 phr. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies revealed the dramatic changes from a nonuniform to finer and uniform dispersed phase morphology. This was reflected in various mechanical properties. SEBS‐g‐MA modified blends showed higher tensile strength. EPM‐g‐MA modified blends also displayed considerable improvement. Elongation at break (EB) was doubled for the entire compatibilized blends. Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) confirmed the chemical changes in the blends brought about by the interactions between blend components and compatibilizers. Both SEBS‐g‐MA and EPM‐g‐MA had more or less similar effects in dynamic mechanical properties of the blends. Additionally, melt rheological studies have also been pursued through a rubber process analyzer (RPA) to get a better insight.
Inflammation induces endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition and promotes vascular calcification through downregulation of BMPR2
Authors: Sánchez‐Duffhues Gonzalo , García de Vinuesa Amaya , van de Pol Vera , Geerts Marlieke E , de Vries Margreet R , Janson Stef GT , van Dam Hans , Lindeman Jan H. , Goumans Marie‐José , ten Dijke Peter
Published: November 2018

Endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndMT) has been unveiled as a common cause for a multitude of human pathologies, including cancer and cardiovascular disease. Vascular calcification is a risk factor for ischemic vascular disorders and slowing calcification may reduce mortality in affected patients. The absence of early biomarkers hampers the identification of patients at risk. EndMT and vascular calcification are induced upon cooperation between distinct stimuli, including inflammatory cytokines and transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) family members. However, how these signaling pathways interplay to promote cell differentiation and eventually vascular calcification is not well understood. Using in vitro and ex vivo analysis in animal models and patient‐derived tissues, we have identified that the pro‐inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β) induce EndMT in human primary aortic endothelial cells, thereby sensitizing them for BMP‐9‐induced osteogenic differentiation. Downregulation of the BMP type II receptor BMPR2 is a key event in this process. Rather than compromising BMP canonical signal transduction, loss of BMPR2 results in decreased JNK signaling in ECs, thus enhancing BMP‐9‐induced mineralization. Altogether, our results point at the BMPR2–JNK signaling axis as a key pathway regulating inflammation‐induced EndMT and contributing to calcification. © 2018 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Examination of low‐velocity impact and mechanical properties after impact of fiber‐reinforced prepreg composites
Authors: Hongji Zhang , Yuanyuan Ge , Hong Tang , Yaoyao Shi , Yinggang Miao , Yuan Hu
Published: November 2018

Fiber‐reinforced prepreg composites are considered to be the most promising materials for aerospace applications. However, these composites are susceptible to impact during in‐service phases. The impact can cause various types of damage, such as matrix cracks, delamination and fiber breakage, thereby considerably decreasing their mechanical properties. In this study, a series of experiments were carried out to investigate the LVI characteristics. The impact damage characteristics of the fiber‐reinforced prepreg composites were examined; the influencing factors and rules of impact damage were investigated; and the damage process and failure mechanism were revealed. X‐ray 3D computed tomography was employed to examine the internal damaged state of the fiber‐reinforced prepreg composites. An experimental study was carried out to investigate their compression after impact performance. The results indicated that impact energy mainly affects damage failure. With increasing impact energy, the impact contact time decreases, while the impact force fluctuation increases. The damage zone was spherical, and the damaged area increased with energy. The impact damage led to the sharp decrease in the remaining compressive strength and stiffness of the material, and the residual compression strength and stiffness were decreased to 62.25 and 76.6%, respectively. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:2154–2164, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Thermal Behavior and Detonation Characterization of 3,3‐Dinitroazetidinium Salicylate
Authors: Yan Biao , Li Hongya , Ma Haixia , Zhao Fengqi , Ma Yajun , Zhang Zhifang , Zhang Ya , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: November 2018

The thermal behavior of 3,3‐dinitroazetidinium salicylate (DNAZ ⋅ SA) was studied under a non‐isothermal condition by DSC and TG/DTG methods. The intense exothermic decomposition processes of DSC curves were analyzed to obtain its kinetic parameters. The self‐accelerating decomposition temperature (TSADT), thermal ignition temperature (TTIT), and critical temperatures of thermal explosion (Tb) were obtained to evaluate its thermal stability and safety. The DFT was used to calculate its band structure; the energy gap was obtained to evaluate its impact insensitivity. Its detonation velocity (D) and detonation pressure (P) were estimated using the nitrogen equivalent equation according to the experimental density. The above results of DNAZ ⋅ SA were compared with those of 3,3‐dinitroazetidinium 3,5‐dinitrosalicylate (DNAZ ⋅ DNS), and the effect of nitro group on them were discussed, which results indicate that the nitro group increases the safety and energy simultaneously.
Assessment, management and support of people with dementia
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: November 2018

For the first time in 12 years, NICE has updated its guideline on the care of people living with dementia. This article summarises the key recommendations of the new guidance and how it differs from the 2006 document.
Views on NHS England's guidance on OTC prescribing
Authors: Ogden Joy
Published: November 2018

In March 2018, NHS England and NHS Clinical Commissioners published guidance on conditions for which over‐the‐counter (OTC) items should not routinely be prescribed in primary care. This article examines some of the feedback received during the consultation process and how the final guidance has been refined.
Distributed adaptive model‐based event‐triggered predictive control for consensus of multiagent systems
Authors: Yin Xiuxia , Yue Dong , Hu Songlin , Zhang Huaipin
Published: November 2018

This paper investigates the consensus problem for discrete‐time networked multiagent systems, where the information is exchanged through a shared network with communication delays. Based on the event‐triggered communication scheme together with the networked predictive control scheme, a novel distributed adaptive model‐based event‐triggered predictive control protocol is proposed to reduce the network communication burden and compensate for the communication delays actively. By using the virtual interval segmentation technique and the time‐delay modeling method together with defining a set of switching signals, the closed‐loop systems are established in forms of switching time‐delay systems. The problem of simultaneously deriving the controller gain matrix and the event‐triggering parameter matrices is cast into standard linear matrix inequalities problem. A convincing simulation example is given to demonstrate the theoretical results.
Intrinsic Carrier Transport of Phase‐Pure Homologous 2D Organolead Halide Hybrid Perovskite Single Crystals
Authors: Li Min‐Ken , Chen Tzu‐Pei , Lin Yen‐Fu , Raghavan Chinnambedu Murugesan , Chen Wei‐Liang , Yang Shih‐Hsien , Sankar Raman , Luo Chih‐Wei , Chang Yu‐Ming , Chen Chun‐Wei
Published: November 2018

This work reveals the intrinsic carrier transport behavior of 2D organolead halide perovskites based on phase‐pure homologous (n = 1, 2, and 3) Ruddelsden–Popper perovskite (RPP) (BA)2(MA)n−1PbnI3n+1 single crystals. The 2D perovskite field effect transistors with high‐quality exfoliated 2D perovskite bulk crystals are fabricated, and characteristic output and transfer curves are measured from individual single‐crystal flakes with various n values under different temperatures. Unipolar n‐type transport dominated the electrical properties of all these 2D RPP single crystals. The transport behavior of the 2D organolead halide hybrid perovskites exhibits a strong dependence on the n value and the mobility substantially increases as the ratio of the number of inorganic perovskite slabs per organic spacer increases. By extracting the effect of contact resistances, the corrected mobility values for n = 1, 2, and 3 are 2 × 10−3, 8.3 × 10−2, and 1.25 cm2 V−1 s−1 at 77 K, respectively. Furthermore, by combining temperature‐dependent electrical transport and optical measurements, it is found that the origin of the carrier mobility dependence on the phase transition for 2D organolead halide perovskites is very different from that of their 3D counterparts. Our findings offer insight into fundamental carrier transport behavior of 2D organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites based on phase‐pure homologous single crystals.