bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unravelling the heterogeneity and dynamic relationships of tumor-infiltrating T cells by single-cell RNA sequencing analysis
Authors: Yu Xin , Zhang Lei , Chaudhry Ashutosh , Rapaport Aaron S. , Ouyang Wenjun
Published: April 2020

T cells are crucial for the success of immune-based cancer therapy. Reinvigorating antitumor T cell activity by blocking checkpoint inhibitory receptors has provided clinical benefits for many cancer patients. However, the efficacy of these treatments varies in cancer patients and the mechanisms underlying these diverse responses remain elusive. The density and status of tumor-infiltrating T cells have been shown to positively correlate with patient response to checkpoint blockades. Therefore, further understanding of the heterogeneity, clonal expansion, migration, and effector functions of tumor-infiltrating T cells will provide fundamental insights into antitumor immune responses. To this end, recent advances in single-cell RNA sequencing technology have enabled profound and extensive characterization of intratumoral immune cells and have improved our understanding of their dynamic relationships. Here, we summarize recent progress in single-cell RNA sequencing technology and current strategies to uncover heterogeneous tumor-infiltrating T cell subsets. In particular, we discuss how the coupling of deep transcriptome information with T cell receptor (TCR)-based lineage tracing has furthered our understanding of intratumoral T cell populations. We also discuss the functional implications of various T cell subsets in tumors and highlight the identification of novel T cell markers with therapeutic or prognostic potential.
Comparative anatomy of the clasper of catsharks and its phylogenetic implications (Chondrichthyes: Carcharhiniformes: Scyliorhinidae)
Authors: A. Soares Karla D.
Published: April 2020

The presence of claspers is one of the main characteristics of the cartilaginous fishes, but its variations across taxa have received limited use in shark systematics and have generally been neglected in descriptions of species. Clasper descriptions are available only for a few catshark species and most of these are focused only in external morphology. Besides that, divergences regarding the identification of some structures persist in the literature emphasizing the need of more encompassing morphological comparative analyses on claspers of scyliorhinids. In this study, claspers structures of almost all catshark genera were examined, described, and illustrated (except Akheilos and Pentanchus) and comments on their phylogenetic significance are provided. Some characters such as degree of development of rhipidions and terminal dermal cover, occurrence, position and size of accessory marginal and terminal cartilages proved to be useful for taxonomic purposes and their significance along carcharhiniforms systematics needs to be further investigated.

Research highlights

Clasper morphology of catsharks is described and compared and its systematic significance is discussed here. External morphology and skeleton components of claspers vary widely among scyliorhinids and may be useful in phylogenetic analyses.
Morphological changes associated with Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) phallic glans inflation
Authors: Moore Brandon C. , Francis Rachel , Foster Adam , Kelly Diane A. , Does Mark , Kim Dong K. , Groenewald Herman B. , Myburgh Jan G.
Published: April 2020

The crocodylian phallic glans is the distal inflatable structure that makes the most direct contact with the female cloacal and associated reproductive tract openings during copulation. Therefore, its form and function directly impact female tissue sensory interactions and insemination mechanics. Compared to mammals, less is known about glans functional anatomy among other amniotes, including crocodylians. Therefore, we paired an ex vivo inflation technique with magnetic resonance imaging 3D‐reconstructions and corresponding histological analyses to better characterize the morphological glans restructuring occurring in the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) at copulation. The expansion of contiguous inflatable spongiform glans tissues is variably constrained by adjacent regions of dense irregular collagen‐rich tissues. Therefore, expansion shows regional differences with greater lateral inflation than dorsal and ventral. Furthermore, this enlargement elaborates the cup‐like glans lumen, dorsally reorients the glans ridge, stiffens the blunt and bifid glans tip, and putatively works to seal the ventral sulcus spermaticus semen conduit groove. We suggest how these dynamic male structures may interact with structures of the female cloacal urodeum and how these morphological changes, in concert with the varying material properties of the structural tissue compartments visualized in this study, aid copulatory gamete transfer and resulting fecundity.

Research Highlights

Nile crocodile glans inflation produces a reproductively relevant copulatory structure directing insemination and female tissue interactions.

Pairing magnetic resonance imaging 3D reconstruction with corresponding histology effectively studies functional anatomy.
Data analysis of coronavirus COVID‐19 epidemic in South Korea based on recovered and death cases
Authors: AL‐Rousan Nadia , AL‐Najjar Hazem
Published: April 2020

Coronavirus epidemic caused an emergency in South Korea. The first infected case came to light on 20 January 2020 followed by 9583 more cases that were reported by 29 March 2020. This indicates that the number of confirmed cases is increasing rapidly, which can cause a nationwide crisis for the country. The aim of this study is to fill a gap between previous studies and the current rate of spreading of COVID‐19 by extracting a relationship between independent variables and the dependent ones. This study statistically analyzed the effect of factors such as sex, region, infection reasons, birth year, and released or diseased date on the reported number of recovered and deceased cases. The results found that sex, region, and infection reasons affected both recovered and deceased cases, while birth year affected only the deceased cases. Besides, no deceased cases are reported for released cases, while 11.3% of deceased cases positive confirmed after their deceased. Unknown reason of infection is the main variable that detected in South Korea with more than 33% of total infected cases.
Differential expression profile of long noncoding RNAs in chronic HBV infection: New insights into pathogenesis
Authors: Hao Qingqin , Wang Zheng , Wang Qinghui , Xia Wei , Cao Hong , Lu Zhonghua , Qian Huizhong
Published: April 2020

Increasing studies have revealed that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) might play vital roles in the development and progression of various diseases including viral infectious diseases. However, the expression and biological functions of lncRNAs in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remain largely unknown. Therefore, lncRNA microarray was performed to analyze the lncRNAs' and messenger RNAs' (mRNAs) expression profiles in liver tissues from patients with chronic HBV infection. Subsequently, a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis was conducted to investigate the potential functions of the differentially expressed genes. As a result, a total of 203 differentially expressed lncRNAs and 180 mRNAs were identified in chronic HBV infection. The expressions of five differentially expressed lncRNAs were further validated using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Gene ontology, pathway analysis, and gene set enrichment analysis revealed that differentially expressed lncRNAs might be mainly be involved in cytokine‐cytokine receptor interaction and varied biotransformation processes, including fatty acid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, carbon metabolism, and drug metabolism. Additionally, coexpression networks between differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs were constructed to reveal the hub regulator and analyze the functional pathways. This study provided an overview of lncRNA and mRNA expression in liver tissues from patients with chronic HBV infection. These differentially expressed lncRNAs might play crucial roles in the pathogenesis and progression of chronic HBV infection, which deserve further investigation.
Quantitative proteomic profiling of the rat substantia nigra places glial fibrillary acidic protein at the hub of proteins dysregulated during aging: Implications for idiopathic Parkinson's disease
Authors: Gómez‐Gálvez Yolanda , Fuller Heidi R. , Synowsky Silvia , Shirran Sally L. , Gates Monte A.
Published: April 2020

There is a strong correlation between aging and onset of idiopathic Parkinson's disease, but little is known about whether cellular changes occur during normal aging that may explain this association. Here, proteomic and bioinformatic analysis was conducted on the substantia nigra (SN) of rats at four stages of life to identify and quantify protein changes throughout aging. This analysis revealed that proteins associated with cell adhesion, protein aggregation and oxidation‐reduction are dysregulated as early as middle age in rats. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was identified as a network hub connecting the greatest number of proteins altered during aging. Furthermore, the isoform of GFAP expressed in the SN varied throughout life. However, the expression levels of the rate‐limiting enzyme for dopamine production, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), were maintained even in the oldest animals, despite a reduction in the number of dopamine neurons in the SN pars compact(SNc) as aging progressed. This age‐related increase in TH expression per neuron would likely to increase the vulnerability of neurons, since increased dopamine production would be an additional source of oxidative stress. This, in turn, would place a high demand on support systems from local astrocytes, which themselves show protein changes that could affect their functionality. Taken together, this study highlights key processes that are altered with age in the rat SN, each of which converges upon GFAP. These findings offer insight into the relationship between aging and increased challenges to neuronal viability, and indicate an important role for glial cells in the aging process.
Process‐based attribution of long‐term surface warming over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wu Yuting , Yang Song , Hu Xiaoming , Wei Wei
Published: April 2020

The Tibetan Plateau (TP) has experienced a rapid warming since the 1980s even during the global warming hiatus. Using the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts Interim (ERA‐Interim) reanalysis and a climate feedback‐response analysis method, we attribute the long‐term change in near‐surface air temperature (SAT) over the TP to external forcing and internal climate processes. Results indicate that over the eastern and central TP, a reduction of surface sensible heat flux going from the surface to the atmosphere and the moistening of atmosphere are responsible for the increase in the annual mean SAT. In the western TP, however, the most important contributors to surface warming are surface latent heat flux, surface albedo, and clouds. In summer (June–July–August), strong water vapour convergence with anomalous ascending motion results in more cloud cover over the central and eastern TP, causing a stronger cooling effect at the surface which is compensated by changes in water vapour and surface sensible heat flux. In winter (December–January–February), the change in surface albedo shows a significant increasing trend in the past 40 years, showing less net downward solar radiation to warm the surface. However, the decadal reduction of surface sensible heat flux and increase of heat storage result in a warming surface.
Kindergartners Are Ready to Learn: Applying Student‐Within‐Environment Theory to a School Counseling Intervention
Authors: Bowers Hannah , Lemberger‐Truelove Matthew E. , Whitford Denise K.
Published: April 2020

The authors delivered a school counseling intervention grounded in advocating student‐within‐environment theory (Lemberger, 2010) to 57 kindergarten students. Using an action research design, 2 school counselors implemented the intervention in 5 classrooms. Program participation resulted in enhanced executive function and social‐emotional learning skills. Implications for practice and research are provided.
Transcriptomic analysis of adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder
Authors: Kamal Nima , McGee Sean L. , Eng Kevin , Brown Graeme , Beattie Sally , Collier Fiona , Gill Stephen , Page Richard S.
Published: April 2020

Adhesive capsulitis (AC) is a disabling condition of the shoulder joint affecting 2 to 5% of the general population. Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms is limited. The present study aimed to determine potential biomarkers of AC through transcriptomic analysis. This multi‐centre study investigated patients undergoing arthroscopic capsulotomy surgery for resistant AC compared to those undergoing arthroscopic stabilization surgery for glenohumeral instability (control). Tissue samples were harvested from the anterior capsule during surgery. Total RNA was extracted and RNA‐sequencing‐based transcriptomics were performed. A number of genes deemed differentially expressed in RNA‐sequencing analysis were validated using real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Baseline characteristics of the AC group (n = 22) were; mean age 52.7 years (SD: 10.2), 73% female, and Oxford Shoulder Score 19.6 (SD: 8.0), compared with the control group (n = 26), average age 23.9 years (SD: 5.2), 15% female, and Oxford Shoulder Score 39.0 (SD: 7.4). Transcriptomic analysis with false discovery rate correction and log2 fold change cut‐off of ±1.5 revealed 545 differentially expressed genes in AC relative to control. Bioinformatic analyses were carried out to identify biological processes and pathways enriched in this dataset. Real‐time RT‐PCR using two different normalization processes confirmed increased expression of matrix metallopeptidase 13 (MMP13) and platelet‐derived growth factor subunit B (PDGFB), in patients with AC, while tumor necrosis factor α (TNFA) expression was reduced. These findings provide a comprehensive assessment of transcriptional changes associated with AC that give insights into the aetiology of the disease and provides a resource for molecular targets to better diagnose and treat this condition.
Gelatin hydrogels with eicosapentaenoic acid can prevent osteoarthritis progression in vivo in a mouse model
Authors: Tsubosaka Masanori , Kihara Shinsuke , Hayashi Shinya , Nagata Junpei , Kuwahara Toshie , Fujita Masahiro , Kikuchi Kenichi , Takashima Yoshinori , Kamenaga Tomoyuki , Kuroda Yuichi , Takeuchi Kazuhiro , Fukuda Koji , Takayama Koji , Hashimoto Shingo , Matsumoto Tomoyuki , Niikura Takahiro , Tabata Yasuhiko , Kuroda Ryosuke
Published: April 2020

Eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) is an antioxidant and omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid that reduces inflammatory cytokine production. Gelatin hydrogel can be used as a carrier of a physiologically active substance that release it gradually for an average of ~3 weeks. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify the effect of EPA‐incorporating gelatin hydrogels on osteoarthritis (OA) progression in vivo. Ten‐week‐old male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6): Sham, destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM), Corn: DMM + 2 µL corn oil, EPA injection alone (EPA‐I): DMM + 2 µL corn oil + 125 μg/μL EPA, Gel: DMM + gelatin hydrogels, and EPA‐G: DMM + 125 μg/μL EPA‐incorporating gelatin hydrogels. The mice were euthanized at 8 weeks after DMM or Sham surgery, and subjected to histological evaluation. Matrix‐metalloproteinases‐3 (MMP‐3), MMP‐13, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), p‐IKK α/β, CD86, and CD163 protein expression in the synovial cartilage was detected by immunohistochemical staining. F4/80 expression was also assessed using the F4/80 score of macrophage. Histological score was significantly lower in EPA‐G than in EPA‐I. MMP‐3‐, MMP‐13‐, IL‐1β‐, and p‐IKK α/β‐positive cell ratio was significantly lower in EPA‐G than in EPA‐I. However, CD86‐ and CD163‐positive cell ratio was not significantly different between EPA‐I and EPA‐G. The average‐sum F4/80 score of macrophage in EPA‐G was significantly lower than that in EPA‐I. EPA‐incorporating gelatin hydrogels were shown to prevent OA progression in vivo more effectively than EPA injection alone. Our results suggested that intra‐articular administration of controlled‐release EPA can be a new therapeutic approach for treating OA.
Maternal Vitamin D Deficiency Increases Intestinal Permeability and Programs Wnt/β‐Catenin Pathway in BALB/C Mice
Authors: Yang Kefeng , Zhu Jie , Wu Jiang , Zhong Yan , Shen Xiuhua , Petrov Brawnie , Cai Wei
Published: April 2020

Background

Recent studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency is associated with intestinal dysfunctions, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether maternal vitamin D deficiency increases intestinal permeability in offspring and its related mechanism.

Methods

Timed‐pregnant mice were fed with either a standard chow diet (SC) or a vitamin D–deprived chow diet (VD‐) 6 weeks prior to breeding and kept on the same diet until the end of gestation. All offspring were fed an SC for 3 weeks after weaning and then observed for effects associated with maternal vitamin D deficiency.

Results

Maternal vitamin D deficiency increased intestinal permeability in offspring, which corresponded with the decreased expression of the tight junction protein claudin‐1. Maternal vitamin D deficiency also repressed the messenger RNA expression of wingless/integrated family member 3a (Wnt3a) and the protein expression of nuclear β‐catenin. The decreased Wnt3a gene expression in male was concurrent with the changes in histone H4 acetylation at either promoter or coding regions. The activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway protected against the impairment of intestinal permeability induced by maternal vitamin D deficiency.

Conclusions

Maternal vitamin D deficiency increased intestinal permeability and decreased tight junction protein expression in offspring. The suppression of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway through histone modification might be involved in the underlying mechanism.
Synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy combined with chemometrics for determination of total phenolic content and antioxidant activity in different tea types
Authors: Bilge Gonca , Özdemir Kübra S
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to monitor the antioxidant activity (AA) and total phenolic content (TPC) variations of different kinds of teas depending on the infusion temperature and time by using synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy (SFS) combined chemometrics as a rapid method. In this study, black tea, oolong tea, green tea, and green tea powder (matcha) samples were brewed at 80 °C and 96 °C for 2.5 to 30 min. Synchronous fluorescence spectra were recorded at different wavelength interval (Δλ) values for optimal models. AA and TPC of tea samples were determined by 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and Folin–Ciocalteu methods as reference methods, respectively. Partial least square (PLS) method was used for correlation between reference methods and SFS method.

RESULTS

Results showed that SFS combined with chemometrics could be an alternative rapid way to monitor TPC and AA of teas with 0.932 and 0.918 of validation R2 values in fermented teas (black tea–oolong) while with 0.961 and 0.860 of validation R2 values in non‐fermented teas (green tea and green tea powder), respectively. Limit of detection (LOD) and root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) values were ≤ 6.61 μg mL−1 and ≤ 17.42, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Based on the lowest R2 value (0.860) on TPC analysis, the proposed method is more appropriate for AA analysis of green tea and green tea powder. Furthermore, infusion time was more effective for obtaining different amounts of TPC and AA in fermented tea types while only infusion temperature was effective on green tea and green tea powder samples. Therefore, obtained calibration‐validation models gave better results for fermented tea types.
Black Bear Movement and Food Conditioning in an Exurban Landscape
Authors: Braunstein Jessica L. , Clark Joseph D. , Williamson Ryan H. , Stiver William H.
Published: April 2020

Conflicts between humans and wildlife have become increasingly important challenges for resource managers along the urban‐wildland interface. Food conditioning (i.e., reliance by an animal on anthropogenic foods) of American black bears (Ursus americanus) is related to conflict behavior (i.e., being bold or aggressive toward humans, consuming human food or garbage, causing property damage) and often occurs in communities adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GRSM or Park), USA. The goal of our study was to evaluate black bear space use in GRSM and in exurban areas on surrounding private lands and to identify factors associated with food conditioning and conflict behavior. We radio‐collared 53 bears (29 males, 24 females) from 2015 to 2017 to compare space use characteristics and used carbon isotopic signatures (δ13C) from bear hair to assess food conditioning. We then performed an integrated step selection function (iSSF) analysis to characterize and compare movement and resource use as related to food conditioning. Based on the stable isotope analyses, 24 bears were classified as food conditioned (FC; 16 males and 8 females) and 37 were not food conditioned (NFC; 14 males and 23 females). Annual 95% kernel density estimate (KDE) home ranges and 50% KDE core area estimates of female and male bears did not differ by level of food conditioning (i.e., mean δ13C), but 95% and 50% home ranges of FC females were smaller than NFC females when data from 2015, a year of food scarcity and abnormally large home ranges, were excluded. The mean proportion of exurban development (e.g., roads, buildings, openings) within 95% KDE and 50% KDE home ranges of females increased with mean δ13C (i.e., greater food conditioning). The iSSF models indicated that FC bears were more likely to use forest openings associated with higher levels of development than NFC bears. We used those models to demonstrate how landscape modifications can reduce bear use of exurban areas, particularly for NFC bears. Our stable isotope, movement, and resource use data indicate that conflict behaviors displayed by many bears within GRSM were learned in areas outside Park boundaries. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Anatomical Factors that Can Predict the Structure of Lamina Papyracea for Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Ohira Shinya , Matsuura Kentaro , Matsui Hidehito , Nakamura Mitsuto , Kamiyama Kazuhisa , Kajiwara Riko , Inoue Akiko , Wada Kota
Published: April 2020

Objectives

This study investigated morphological variations of lamina papyracea, the structure that should be carefully considered when opening posterior ethmoid sinus during endoscopic sinus surgery, to avoid injury.

Study design

This study employed axial, coronal, and sagittal computed tomography.

Methods

Using computed tomography images of 228 face‐sides, various anatomical parameters were determined: distances of the anterior and posterior ethmoid arteries from the skull base, and from the third lamella; changes in the angles of the lamina papyracea at the anterior and posterior ethmoid sinuses; and presence or absence of supraorbital ethmoid cell (SECs), Onodi cell, and Haller cell. The relationship between the distances which indicate the point of maximum projection by the lamina papyracea among third lamina and posterior ethmoid artery into the posterior ethmoid sinus and these anatomical factors were analyzed statistically.

Results

The projection distance of lamina papyracea into the posterior ethmoid sinus was −2.6 mm to 3.4 mm, and in 41.2% of cases, projection in the direction of the nasal cavity was greater than that of the lamina papyracea at the anterior ethmoid sinus. This distance increased with increasing distance of the maximum projection point from the skull base and increasing floating distances of the anterior and posterior ethmoid arteries. The number of subjects with large projection distances was increased among those with floating posterior ethmoid arteries. In addition, subjects with SECs had significantly greater projection distances.

Conclusions

Particular care should be taken to avoid injury to the lamina papyracea when opening the posterior ethmoid sinus in subjects with floating anterior or posterior ethmoid arteries, and/or SEC.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E19–E25, 2021
The challenges of the COVID‐19 pandemic: Approaches for the elderly and those with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Zhang Qing , Song Weihong
Published: April 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is an infectious disease that since its outbreak in December 2019 has become a global pandemic. COVID‐19 is caused by the previously unknown coronavirus SARS‐CoV‐2. The elderly are the most vulnerable to COVID‐19, and have the highest mortality of the afflicted. Similar patterns have been observed in epidemics and pandemics throughout the 20th and the beginning of the 21st centuries. In this article, we review some unique challenges the elderly and people with Alzheimer's disease face during the COVID‐19 pandemic and suggest approaches that could be taken from healthcare and social approaches to better handle this pandemic.
Arachidonic acid alleviates the detrimental effects of acetylsalicylic acid on human granulosa cells performance in vitro
Authors: Khajeh Masoumeh , Nouri Mohammad , Ghasemzadeh Aalie , Mehdizadeh Amir , Shanehbandi Dariush , Yousefi Soudabe , Darabi Masoud , Rahbarghazi Reza
Published: April 2020

Here, we investigated the biological effects of arachidonic acid (AA) in human cumulus granulosa cells (CGCs) after exposure to ASA. Cells were isolated from the follicular fluid and incubated with 0.5 mM acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and 50 µM AA. Cell viability was analyzed by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. E2 and P4 levels were measured by chemiluminescence assay. Expression of genes including CYP19A1, FACN, and SCD1 was measured by real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay. Oxidative status was analyzed by monitoring glutathione peroxidase activity. The fatty acid profile was analyzed by the gas chromatography technique. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in CGCs after exposure to ASA and AA. Protein levels of the estrogen receptor were studied by immunofluorescence staining. Ultrastructural changes were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy imaging. ASA treatment reduced E2 production, Cyp19a1 expression, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, and estradiol receptor expression in CGCs. The addition of AA prevented the ASA‐induced E2 reduction (p < .05) and expression of Cyp19a1. Moreover, AA increased the antioxidant capacity of CGCs exposed to ASA by promoting GPx activity (p < .05). AA increased monounsaturated fatty acid/saturated fatty acid ratio compared with the ASA group (p < .05). AA supplementation triggered the synthesis and secretion of PGE2 in ASA‐treated CGCS (p < .05). Cytoplasmic vacuolation observed in the ASA group and treatment with AA intensified vacuolation rate. The expression of the estrogen receptor was increased after AA supplementation. Data demonstrated that AA decreased the detrimental effects of ASA on human CGCs after 72 hr.
Time‐Restricted Eating Effects on Body Composition and Metabolic Measures in Humans who are Overweight: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Chow Lisa S. , Manoogian Emily N. C. , Alvear Alison , Fleischer Jason G. , Thor Honoree , Dietsche Katrina , Wang Qi , Hodges James S. , Esch Nicholas , Malaeb Samar , Harindhanavudhi Tasma , Nair K. Sreekumaran , Panda Satchidananda , Mashek Douglas G.
Published: April 2020

Objective

In contrast to intentionally restricting energy intake, restricting the eating window may be an option for treating obesity. By comparing time‐restricted eating (TRE) with an unrestricted (non‐TRE) control, it was hypothesized that TRE facilitates weight loss, alters body composition, and improves metabolic measures.

Methods

Participants (17 women and 3 men; mean [SD]: 45.5 [12.1] years; BMI 34.1 [7.5] kg/m2) with a prolonged eating window (15.4 [0.9] hours) were randomized to TRE (n = 11: 8‐hour window, unrestricted eating within window) versus non‐TRE (n = 9: unrestricted eating) for 12 weeks. Weight, body composition (dual x‐ray absorptiometry), lipids, blood pressure, 2‐hour oral glucose tolerance, 2‐week continuous glucose monitoring, and 2‐week physical activity (actigraphy assessed) were measured during the pre‐ and end‐intervention periods.

Results

The TRE group significantly reduced the eating window (end‐intervention window: 9.9 [2.0] hours) compared with the non‐TRE group (end‐intervention window: 15.1 [1.1] hours) (P < 0.01). Compared with non‐TRE, TRE decreased the number of eating occasions, weight, lean mass, and visceral fat (all P ≤ 0.05). Compared with preintervention measures, the TRE group reduced the number of eating occasions (−21.9% [30.1%]) and reduced weight (−3.7% [1.8%]), fat mass (−4% [2.9%]), lean mass (−3.0% [2.7%]), and visceral fat (−11.1% [13.4%]) (all P ≤ 0.05). Physical activity and metabolic measures remained unchanged.

Conclusions

In the setting of a randomized trial, TRE presents a simplified view of food intake that reduces weight.
Upper and Lower Extremity Measurement of Tissue Sodium and Fat Content in Patients with Lipedema
Authors: Crescenzi Rachelle , Donahue Paula M.C. , Petersen Kalen J. , Garza Maria , Patel Niral , Lee Chelsea , Beckman Joshua A. , Donahue Manus J.
Published: April 2020

Objective

The aim of this study is to compare tissue sodium and fat content in the upper and lower extremities of participants with lipedema versus controls using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

MRI was performed at 3.0 T in females with lipedema (n = 15, age = 43.2 ± 10.0 years, BMI = 30.3 ± 4.4 kg/m2) and controls without lipedema (n = 14, age = 42.8 ± 13.2 years, BMI = 28.8 ± 4.4 kg/m2). Participants were assessed for pain and disease stage. Sodium MRI was performed in the forearm and calf to quantify regional tissue sodium content (TSC, mmol/L). Chemical‐shift–encoded water‐fat MRI was performed in identical regions for measurement of fat/water (ratio).

Results

In the calf, skin TSC (16.3 ± 2.6 vs. 14.4 ± 2.2 mmol/L, P = 0.04), muscle TSC (20.3 ± 3.0 vs. 18.3 ± 1.7 mmol/L, P = 0.03), and fat/water (1.03 ± 0.37 vs. 0.56 ± 0.21 ratio, P < 0.001) were significantly higher in participants with lipedema versus control participants. In the forearm, skin TSC (13.4 ± 3.3 vs. 12.0 ± 2.3 mmol/L, P = 0.2, Cohen’s d = 0.50) and fat/water (0.65 ± 0.24 vs. 0.48 ± 0.24 ratio, P = 0.07, Cohen’s d = 0.68) demonstrated moderate effect sizes in participants with lipedema versus control participants. Calf skin TSC was significantly correlated with pain (Spearman’s rho = 0.55, P = 0.03) and disease stage (Spearman’s rho = 0.82, P < 0.001) among participants with lipedema.

Conclusions

MRI‐measured tissue sodium and fat content are significantly higher in the lower extremities, but not upper extremities, of patients with lipedema compared with BMI‐matched controls.
Plasma‐initiated chemical vapour deposition of organosiloxane thin films: From the growth mechanisms to ultrathin low‐k polymer insulating layers
Authors: Abessolo Ondo Dominique , Leturcq Renaud , Boscher Nicolas D.
Published: April 2020

The growth mechanisms of low dielectric constant polymer thin films elaborated from the atmospheric‐pressure plasma‐initiated chemical vapour deposition (AP‐PiCVD) reaction of a cyclic vinyl organosiloxane are experimentally elucidated in this study. The use of ultrashort plasma pulses (ca. 100 ns), as a polymerisation initiator, with long plasma off‐times results in the formation of atomically smooth thin films. The increase of the monomer saturation ratio, PM/Psat, results in an increase in the growth rate and a better retention of the cyclic structure of the monomer, promoting lower dielectric constants. Based on this experimental study, guidelines are provided to determine the optimal process window for the AP‐PiCVD of functional polymer thin films.
Manufacture and Evaluation of Auxetic Yarns and Woven Fabrics
Authors: Gao Yajie , Liu Sai , Wu Miaobing , Chen Xiaogang , Studd Rachel
Published: April 2020

Auxetic materials are a type of novel materials exhibiting negative Poisson's ratio (NPR) with potentials for special applications. Herein, the aim is to optimize the auxetic yarn and fabric manufacturing processes, establish the understanding of the influence of yarn and fabric parameters on the auxeticity of the engineered materials and explore the potential applications of auxetic textile materials. The auxetic yarns are manufactured based on a conversional helical structure composing initially a super elastic polyurethane core and a high modulus Nylon 6,6 binder. A hollow spindle machine is used to produce the auxetic yarn with optimized twisting and delivery speeds. Stable helical yarns with auxetic properties are manufactured using the optimized parameters, and woven fabrics are produced from the selected auxetic yarns in both warp and weft directions. Experiments show that the maximum NPR of helical auxetic yarns reaches a remarkable level of −5.6, and the auxetic fabrics display notable geometric changes compared with the nonauxetic fabrics with the same structural parameters. The auxeticity demonstrated in the fabrics implies applications in areas such as filtration and impact protection.
Identification of hydrogen bonds using quantum electrodynamics
Authors: Senami Masato , Ito Keito
Published: April 2020

A method for the identification of hydrogen bonds was investigated from the viewpoint of the stress tensor density proposed by Tachibana and following other works in this field. Hydrogen bonds are known to exhibit common features with ionic and covalent bonds. In quantum electrodynamics, the covalent bond has been demonstrated to display a spindle structure of the stress tensor density. Importantly, this spindle structure is also seen in the hydrogen bond, although the covalency is considerably weaker than in a typical covalent bond. Distinguishing it from the ionic bond is most imperative for the identification of the hydrogen bond. In the present study, the directionality of the hydrogen bond is investigated as the ionic bond is nearly isotropic, while the hydrogen bond exhibits the directionality. It was demonstrated that the hydrogen bond can be distinguished from the ionic bond using the angle dependence of the largest eigenvalue of the stress tensor density.
Enhanced Piezo‐Photoelectric Catalysis with Oriented Carrier Migration in Asymmetric Au−ZnO Nanorod Array
Authors: Xiang Deli , Liu Zhirong , Wu Mengqi , Liu Huanhuan , Zhang Xiaodi , Wang Zhuo , Wang Zhong Lin , Li Linlin
Published: April 2020

Current photocatalytic semiconductors often have low catalytic performance due to limited light utilization and fast charge carrier recombination. Formation of Schottky junction between semiconductors and plasmonic metals can broaden the light absorption and facilitate the photon‐generated carriers separation. To further amplify the catalytic performance, herein, an asymmetric gold‐zinc oxide (Asy‐Au−ZnO) nanorod array is rationally designed, which realizes the synergy of piezocatalysis and photocatalysis, as well as spatially oriented electron−hole pairs separation, generating a significantly enhanced catalytic performance. In addition to conventional properties from noble metal/semiconductor Schottky junction, the rationally designed heterostructure has several additional advantages: 1) The piezoelectric ZnO under light and mechanical stress can directly generate charge carriers; 2) the Schottky barrier can be reduced by ZnO piezopotential to enhance the injection efficiency of hot electrons from Au nanoparticles to ZnO; 3) the unique asymmetric nanorod array structure can achieve a spatially directed separation and migration of the photon‐generated carriers. When ultrasound and all‐spectrum light irradiation are exerted simultaneously, the Asy‐Au−ZnO reaches the highest catalytic efficiency of 95% in 75 min for dye degradation. It paves a new pathway for designing unique asymmetric nanostructures with the synergy of photocatalysis and piezocatalysis.
Transcatheter Arterial Embolization in the Treatment of Abdominal Bleeding in Patients Being Treated with Open Abdomen Due to Duodenal Fistula
Authors: Yao Zheng , Tian Weiliang , Xu Xin , Zhao Risheng , Huang Ming , Zhao Yunzhao , Chen Xinhao
Published: April 2020

Background

This study aimed to investigate the transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) in treatment of abdominal bleeding in patients being treated with open abdomen due to duodenal fistula.

Methods

This was a retrospective study performed at our center. From January 2005 to November 2010, all patients with abdominal bleeding were treated with surgical hemostasis (SH) and included in SH group. From January 2012 to December 2018, all patients with a bleeding were treated with TAE and included in the TAE group. Clinical data were reviewed and compared between the two groups. The effect of TAE in the management of abdominal bleeding was evaluated.

Results

A total of 131 patients were enrolled, and there were 64 in the SH group and 67 in the TAE group. The success rate of hemostasis was higher in the TAE group (89.55% vs. 73.44%, adjusted OR = 4.065, 95% CI 1.336–12.336, P = 0.013). Moreover, the recognition rate of hemorrhagic vessels in the TAE group was higher (91.04 vs. 51.56; P < 0.001). The re‐bleeding occurred in 20 patients, 7(11.67%) in the TAE group and 13(27.66%) in the SH group. The re‐bleeding rate in SH group was higher (adjusted HR = 2.564, 95% CI 1.023–6.428, P = 0.045)

Conclusions

TAE is an effective method in treatment of abdominal bleeding in patients being treated with open abdomen due to duodenal fistula.
Tetraspanins: integrating cell surface receptors to functional microdomains in homeostasis and disease
Authors: Kummer Daniel , Steinbacher Tim , Schwietzer Mariel Flavia , Thölmann Sonja , Ebnet Klaus
Published: April 2020

Tetraspanins comprise a family of proteins embedded in the membrane through four transmembrane domains. One of the most distinctive features of tetraspanins is their ability to interact with other proteins in the membrane using their extracellular, transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains, allowing them to incorporate several proteins into clusters called tetraspanin-enriched microdomains. The spatial proximity of signaling proteins and their regulators enables a rapid functional cross-talk between these proteins, which is required for a rapid translation of extracellular signals into intracellular signaling cascades. In this article, we highlight a few examples that illustrate how tetraspanin-mediated interactions between cell surface proteins allow their functional cross-talk to regulate intracellular signaling.
Adipositas, metabolische Komorbiditäten und Mikrobiommodulation in der Pädiatrie
Authors: Weghuber D.
Published: April 2020

Die Prävalenz der Adipositas im Kindes- und Jugendalter hat sich in den letzten Jahrzehnten vervielfacht. Damit verbunden ist eine steigende Prävalenz assoziierter „nichtübertragbarer Krankheiten“, die ein erhöhtes und frühzeitiges Mortalitätsrisiko mit sich bringen.

Die Vielfalt und eine spezifische Zusammensetzung des Mikrobioms sind mit Adipositas und metabolischen Komorbiditäten assoziiert. In den ersten 3 Lebensjahren haben Umwelteinflüsse wie die maternale Gesundheit und Ernährung während der Schwangerschaft, der Geburtsmodus, die Art der neonatalen und frühkindlichen Ernährung sowie Antibiotikatherapien prägende Einflüsse auf das kindliche Darmmikrobiom.

An Konzepten zur gezielten therapeutischen Modulation des Darmmikrobiom durch Prä‑, Pro- und Synbiotika wird gearbeitet. Spezifische Bakterienklassen wie Verrucomicrobiae scheinen sich metabolisch günstig, andere Stämme wie Proteobacteria ungünstig auszuwirken. Kurzkettige Fettsäuren dienen als wesentliche Mediatoren für die Regulation der intestinalen Permeabilität, der Entzündungskontrolle, des Gallensäuremetabolismus und assoziierter immunologischer Prozesse. Schwangerschaft und Säuglingsalter stellen attraktive Zeitfenster für eine Modifikation des Darmmikrobioms im Rahmen gezielter Ernährungsinterventionen dar, sei es durch Ernährungsumstellung oder Supplementation mit Pro- oder Präbiotika. Gegenwärtig mangelt es noch an qualitativ hochwertigen Studien mit Kindern, um klare Schlüsse ziehen oder gar Therapieempfehlungen für Prä‑, Pro- und Synbiotika aussprechen zu können.
Recent advances in radiotracers targeting norepinephrine transporter: structural development and radiolabeling improvements
Authors: Chen Xinyu , Kudo Takashi , Lapa Constantin , Buck Andreas , Higuchi Takahiro
Published: April 2020

The norepinephrine transporter (NET) is a major target for the evaluation of the cardiac sympathetic nerve system in patients with heart failure and Parkinson's disease. It is also used in the therapeutic applications against certain types of neuroendocrine tumors, as exemplified by the clinically used 123/131I-MIBG as theranostic single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) agent. With the development of more advanced positron emission tomography (PET) technology, more radiotracers targeting NET have been reported, with superior temporal and spatial resolutions, along with the possibility of functional and kinetic analysis. More recently, fluorine-18-labelled NET tracers have drawn increasing attentions from researchers, due to their longer radiological half-life relative to carbon-11 (110 min vs. 20 min), reduced dependence on on-site cyclotrons, and flexibility in the design of novel tracer structures. In the heart, certain NET tracers provide integral diagnostic information on sympathetic innervation and the nerve status. In the central nervous system, such radiotracers can reveal NET distribution and density in pathological conditions. Most radiotracers targeting cardiac NET-function for the cardiac application consistent of derivatives of either norepinephrine or MIBG with its benzylguanidine core structure, e.g. 11C-HED and 18F-LMI1195. In contrast, all NET tracers used in central nervous system applications are derived from clinically used antidepressants. Lastly, possible applications of NET as selective tracers over organic cation transporters (OCTs) in the kidneys and other organs controlled by sympathetic nervous system will also be discussed.
Multinational investments across Europe: a multilevel analysis
Authors: Kleineick Jonas , Ascani Andrea , Smit Martijn
Published: April 2020

This research focuses on the investigation of the location determinants of multinational corporations’ investments in EU countries. Investment projects are addressed by making a distinction between greenfield investments and M&A projects. Besides traditional factors (such as market characteristics) the effect of innovation capabilities and the institutional environment are incorporated in the analysis. The use of a multilevel model makes it possible to empirically assess the effect of national and regional characteristics on the location decision of multinationals. The results suggest that greenfield investments and M&A are similar in their location determinants, although the former have a stronger correlation with highly educated populations. Urbanisation, associated with land cost, as well as national (rather than regional) markets are insignificant. Finally, we find no evidence for the importance of political stability within Europe.
Transcranial sonography changes in heterozygotic carriers of the ATP7B gene
Authors: Skowronska Marta , Litwin Tomasz , Kurkowska-Jastrzębska Iwona , Członkowska Anna
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Wilson’s disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive disorder of ATP7B gene leading to impaired copper metabolism. Brain imaging, such as magnetic resonance (MR) and transcranial sonography (TCS) in WD patients, shows changes mostly in the basal ganglia. Heterozygotic carriers of one faulty ATP7B gene should not exhibit symptoms of WD, but one in three heterozygotes has copper metabolism abnormalities. This study examined heterozygote ATP7B mutation carriers using TCS to assess any basal ganglia changes compared with healthy controls.

Methods

Heterozygote carriers and healthy volunteers underwent the same standard MR and TCS imaging protocols. Heterozygotes were followed for 5 years and monitored for the development of neurological symptoms.

Results

The study assessed 34 heterozygotes (21 women), with mean age of 43 years (range of 18 to 74 years) and 18 healthy controls (13 women), with mean age of 47 years (range of 20 to 73 years). Bilateral lenticular nucleus (LN) hyperechogenicity was found in 25 heterozygotes, but none of the controls (p < 0.001). Bilateral substantia nigra (SN) hyperechogenicity was found in 8 heterozygotes and one control; another 3 heterozygotes had unilateral SN hyperechogenicity (p = 0.039 for the right; p = 0.176 for the left). Heterozygotes had larger SN area on both sides compared with controls (p = 0.005 right; p = 0.008 left).

Conclusions

SN and LN hyperechogenicity were more frequent in heterozygotes than in controls, probably due to copper accumulation, but it remains unknown if this predisposes to brain neurodegeneration.
Raftlin is recruited by neuropilin-1 to the activated VEGFR2 complex to control proangiogenic signaling
Authors: Bayliss Asha L. , Sundararaman Ananthalakshmy , Granet Camille , Mellor Harry
Published: April 2020

Background

VEGFR2 (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2) is the major pro-angiogenic receptor in endothelial cells. Compared to other members of the receptor tyrosine kinase family, we know relatively few VEGFR2 signaling partners. Our objective was to use mass spectrometry-based proteomics to identify novel binding partners of activated VEGFR2.

Methods

We created an endothelial cell line stably expressing GFP-tagged VEGFR2 and isolated activated receptor complexes. Analysis by mass spectrometry identified raftlin as a novel binding partner of VEGFR2.

Results

We found that raftlin is recruited to the activated VEGFR2 complex via the co-receptor Nrp1 (neuropilin-1). We show that raftlin regulates the surface levels of Nrp1 in endothelial cells, controlling the availability of Nrp1 for VEGFR2 interaction. Raftlin stabilizes active VEGFR2 at the cell surface by inhibiting endocytosis of the activated receptor. Raftlin also promotes recycling of internalized VEGFR2 to the cell surface. Raftlin alters the signaling outcomes of VEGFR2 activation, inhibiting the activation of p38 and FAK (focal adhesion kinases) specifically. Both pathways are linked to cell migration in endothelial cells, and raftlin inhibits endothelial cell migration in response to VEGF.

Conclusion

Nrp1 is an important co-receptor for VEGFR2; however, its functions are still only partially understood. We show that raftlin works with Nrp1 in endothelial cells to control intracellular trafficking of the activated VEGFR2. This modulates the response to VEGF and controls endothelial cell migration.