bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of energetic reserves during embryonic development of an annual killifish
Authors: Vrtílek Milan , Polačik Matej , Reichard Martin
Published: June 2017

Background: Females can significantly improve their fitness by utilizing a range of maternal effects. Embryos of annual killifish survive the dry season in ephemeral pools encased in dry substrate for several months. Here, we experimentally test the association between energetic provisioning and maternally controlled duration of embryonic development in the African annual killifish Nothobranchius furzeri (Cyprinodontiformes). Results: We found that embryonic energetic reserves do not limit duration of development. However, differences in energetic reserves affect the size at which embryos hatched, with larger yolk size resulting in larger hatchling size. Conclusions: These findings suggest uncoupling of the two traits examined (i.e., embryonic energetic reserves and development duration) and emphasize the strong buffering role of diapause in the energetic balance of embryonic development in the annual killifish. Developmental Dynamics 246:838–847, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Xenopus pitx3 target genes lhx1 and xnr5 are identified using a novel three‐fluor flow cytometry–based analysis of promoter activation and repression
Authors: Hooker Lara N. , Smoczer Cristine , Abbott Samuel , Fakhereddin Mohamad , Hudson John W. , Crawford Michael J.
Published: June 2017

Background: Pitx3 plays a well understood role in directing development of lens, muscle fiber, and dopaminergic neurons; however, in Xenopus laevis, it may also play a role in early gastrulation and somitogenesis. Potential downstream targets of pitx3 possess multiple binding motifs that would not be readily accessible by conventional promoter analysis. Results: We isolated and characterized pitx3 target genes lhx1 and xnr5 using a novel three‐fluor flow cytometry tool that was designed to dissect promoters with multiple binding sites for the same transcription factor. This approach was calibrated using a known pitx3 target gene, Tyrosine hydroxylase. Conclusions: We demonstrate how flow cytometry can be used to detect gene regulatory changes with exquisite precision on a cell‐by‐cell basis, and establish that in HEK293 cells, pitx3 directly activates lhx1 and represses xnr5. Developmental Dynamics 246:657–669, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetic demography at the leading edge of the distribution of a rabies virus vector
Authors: Piaggio Antoinette J. , Russell Amy L. , Osorio Ignacio A. , Jiménez Ramírez Alejandro , Fischer Justin W. , Neuwald Jennifer L. , Tibbels Annie E. , Lecuona Luis , McCracken Gary F.
Published: June 2017

The common vampire bat,Desmodus rotundus, ranges from South America into northern Mexico in North America. This sanguivorous species of bat feeds primarily on medium to large‐sized mammals and is known to rely on livestock as primary prey. Each year, there are hotspot areas ofD. rotundus‐specific rabies virus outbreaks that lead to the deaths of livestock and economic losses. Based on incidental captures in our study area, which is an area of high cattle mortality fromD. rotundustransmitted rabies, it appears thatD. rotundusare being caught regularly in areas and elevations where they previously were thought to be uncommon. Our goal was to investigate demographic processes and genetic diversity at the north eastern edge of the range ofD. rotundusin Mexico. We generated control region sequences (441 bp) and 12‐locus microsatellite genotypes for 602 individuals ofD. rotundus. These data were analyzed using network analyses, Bayesian clustering approaches, and standard population genetic statistical analyses. Our results demonstrate panmixia across our sampling area with low genetic diversity, low population differentiation, loss of intermediate frequency alleles at microsatellite loci, and very low mtDNAhaplotype diversity with all haplotypes being very closely related. Our study also revealed strong signals of population expansion. These results follow predictions from the leading‐edge model of expanding populations and supports conclusions from another study that climate change may allow this species to find suitable habitat within the U.S. border.
The timing of leaf damage affects future herbivory in mountain sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata)
Authors: McMunn Marshall S.
Published: June 2017

Many plants respond to herbivory by increasing expression of defensive traits. The defensive response of plants can vary depending on plant condition, seasonality, and time of day. Due to a lack of field‐based studies, it is unclear how temporal variability in defensive response may alter future rates of herbivory within ecological communities. In a series of simulated herbivory experiments, I quantified how the timing of leaf damage in mountain sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana) affects future herbivory. An identical leaf damage treatment was applied across 12 time windows to test how the effectiveness of response to herbivore damage changes along three interacting temporal scales: diel, seasonal, and annual. In contrast to several studies demonstrating induced resistance to herbivory in sagebrush, prevention of future herbivory was only detected following summer afternoon leaf damage in one of three years. These findings suggest that the timing of experimental leaf damage is one of many factors contributing to variability in field‐based plant defensive induction studies.
Right ventricular dysfunction in left‐sided heart failure with preserved versus reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Bosch Lena , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Gong Lingli , Chan Siew Pang , Sim David , Yeo Daniel , Jaufeerally Fazlur , Leong Kui Toh Gerard , Ong Hean Yee , Ng Tze Pin , Richards Arthur Mark , Arslan Fatih , Ling Lieng H.
Published: June 2017

Background

Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is recognized as a major prognostic factor in left‐sided heart failure (HF). However, the relative contribution of RV dysfunction in HF with preserved (HFpEF) vs. reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is unclear.

Methods and results

Right ventricular longitudinal strain (RVLS), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) were determined by echocardiography in 657 age‐ and gender‐matched groups of patients with HFpEF [left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥50%; n=219] and HFrEF (LVEF <50%; n=219) and in controls without HF (n=219) from an Asian population‐based cohort study. Across control to HFpEF and HFrEF groups, RV function deteriorated as measured by RVLS (−26.7 ± 5%, −22.7±6.6% and −18.2 ± 6.7%, respectively) and TAPSE (21.0 ± 3.9, 17.5 ± 5.1 and 14.7 ± 4.7 mm, respectively), whereas PASP increased (26.8 ± 7.1, 34.5 ± 11.9 and 39.3 ± 16.2 mmHg, respectively) (all P<0.001). Controlling for PASP in control, HFpEF and HFrEF subjects, the magnitude of RVLS/PASP (−1.06 ± 0.32, −0.75 ± 0.32 and −0.56 ± 0.36, respectively) and TAPSE/PASP ratios (0.83 ± 0.23, 0.54 ± 0.24 and 0.55 ± 0.29, respectively) similarly decreased across groups. Right ventricular dysfunction (by both TAPSE and RVLS) was independently associated with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and atrial fibrillation, but not with PASP. Among patients with HF, both TAPSE/PASP and RVLS/PASP ratios were related to the composite endpoint of all‐cause death and HF hospitalization, even after multivariable adjustment [hazard ratio (HR) 0.33; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.14–0.74 and HR 3.09; 95% CI 1.52–6.26, respectively], with no difference between HFrEF and HFpEF.

Conclusions

Right ventricular dysfunction is present in HFpEF and is even more pronounced in HFrEF for any given degree of pulmonary hypertension. It is independently predicted by left ventricular dysfunction but not by PASP. Right ventricular–arterial coupling is prognostically important in HF regardless of LVEF.
BTN3A1‐antibodies and phosphoantigens: TCRVγ9Vδ2 “see” the difference
Authors: Franchini Don‐Marc , Michelas Marie , Lanvin Olivia , Poupot Mary , Fournié Jean Jacques
Published: June 2017

Human blood γδ T lymphocytes express TCRVγ9Vδ2 and respond to nonpeptide phosphoantigens (PAgs) by a mysterious mechanism involving the BTN3A1 (CD277) molecule . BTN3A1 is a butyrophilin‐like protein related to CD80, PD‐L1, and MHC, and is either a presenting or a co‐stimulatory molecule for PAgs. Although the precise roles and molecular interactions with the TCRVγ9Vδ2 are currently not determined, it is commonly thought that all TCRVγ9Vδ2 lymphocytes ‘see’ PAg and BTN3A1 together, presumably in a single molecular recognition event. But whether this recognition event could be reproduced in a simplified model was not addressed in previous studies. In this issue, Starick et al. (Eur. J. Immunol. 2017. 47: 982–992) compared the response of three TCRVγ9Vδ2 pairs of murine and human cell transfectants to PAg and anti‐BTN3A1 antibodies using IL‐2 release as a readout. The authors found that although the two murine transfectants responded similarly to either stimuli, one murine TCRVγ9Vδ2 transfectant reacted to PAgs but not to anti‐BTN3A1 (mAb 20.1). Human transductants behave in a similar fashion, demonstrating that TCRVγ9Vδ2 lymphocytes differentiate PAg and BTN3A1 signals, while species of the transductants unmask this differential sensitivity. Indeed, understanding the puzzling mode of antigen recognition by γδ T lymphocytes will be essential for developing γδ T‐cell‐based immunotherapies, and the authors of this study now demonstrate that TCRVγ9Vδ2 lymphocytes are able to differentiate the PAg and BTN3A1 stimuli.
One‐Dimensional Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Materials Based on Antimony
Authors: Mousdis George A. , Ganotopoulos Nikolaos‐Minas , Barkaoui Hamdi , Abid Younes , Psycharis Vassilis , Savvidou Aikaterini , Raptopoulou Catherine P.
Published: June 2017

The rise of lead halide perovskites as light harvesters has stunned the photovoltaic community because of the high efficiencies achieved. Owing to their unique optical and electronic properties, hybrid metal halide perovskites and their application in optoelectronic devices are a hot topic of academic research. Although Pb and Sn hybrids are used in most cases, they present stability and toxicity problems. Therefore, similar compounds with other metals have been investigated. Antimony‐based hybrid perovskites are good alternatives to their Pb‐based analogues for photovoltaic and other applications. In this paper, we report the synthesis of four organic–inorganic hybrid compounds of the general formula [CH3SC(NH2)2]2SbA5, (A = I, Br, Cl, and Cl/Br). They contain corner‐sharing SbX6 octahedra, which form zigzag chains, and the amine groups are located in the free cavities between the chains. Their structural, optical, and vibronic properties were studied, and the results of DFT calculations were compared with the experimental findings to provide insights into the properties of these new compounds.
Design of stable metabolic networks
Authors: Di Maggio Jimena , Blanco Aníbal M. , Bandoni J. Alberto , Díaz Ricci Juan Carlos , Diaz M. Soledad
Published: June 2017

In this work, we propose eigenvalue optimization combined with Lyapunov theory concepts to ensure stability of the Embden—Meyerhof–Parnas pathway, the pentose‐phosphate pathway, the phosphotransferase system and fermentation reactions of Escherichia coli. We address the design of a metabolic network for the maximization of different metabolite production rates. The first case study focuses on serine production, based on a model that consists of 18 differential equations corresponding to dynamic mass balances for extracellular glucose and intracellular metabolites, and thirty kinetic rate expressions. A second case study addresses the design problem to maximize ethanol production, based on a dynamic model that involves mass balances for 25 metabolites and 38 kinetic rate equations. The nonlinear optimization problem including stability constraints has been solved with reduced space Successive Quadratic Programming techniques. Numerical results provide useful insights on the stability properties of the studied kinetic models.
Manufacturing of Perovskite Oxygen Carriers by Spray Granulation for Chemical Looping Combustion
Authors: Thoréton Vincent , Darell Ove , Spjelkavik Aud I. , Sunding Martin Fleissner , Mokkelbost Tommy , Pishahang Mehdi , Wiik Kjell , Larring Yngve
Published: June 2017

Chemical looping combustion is a technology under development that allows power production with inherent separation of CO2 during fuel combustion. Its principle relies on oxygen carrier materials transporting oxygen from air to oxidize the fuel. One challenge is to develop and produce materials with suitable chemical and physical properties, as well as low environmental impact, while minimizing the cost of production. Herein, it is demonstrated that spray granulation, which is a scalable industrial process, is relevant for the manufacture of promising oxygen carrier materials from low‐cost, low‐environmental‐impact minerals and with good mechanical properties: Ca0.98Mn0.875Ti0.125O3 and Ca0.98Mn0.75Fe0.125Ti0.125O3. Iron substitution clearly reduces the sintering time. Increasing the calcination temperature and calcination time enhances the bulk density and resistance against physical attrition.
A comparison of four porewater sampling methods for metal mixtures and dissolved organic carbon and the implications for sediment toxicity evaluations
Authors: Cleveland Danielle , Brumbaugh William G. , MacDonald Donald D.
Published: June 2017

Evaluations of sediment quality conditions are commonly conducted using whole-sediment chemistry analyses but can be enhanced by evaluating multiple lines of evidence, including measures of the bioavailable forms of contaminants. In particular, porewater chemistry data provide information that is directly relevant for interpreting sediment toxicity data. Various methods for sampling porewater for trace metals and dissolved organic carbon (DOC), which is an important moderator of metal bioavailability, have been employed. The present study compares the peeper, push point, centrifugation, and diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) methods for the quantification of 6 metals and DOC. The methods were evaluated at low and high concentrations of metals in 3 sediments having different concentrations of total organic carbon and acid volatile sulfide and different particle-size distributions. At low metal concentrations, centrifugation and push point sampling resulted in up to 100 times higher concentrations of metals and DOC in porewater compared with peepers and DGTs. At elevated metal levels, the measured concentrations were in better agreement among the 4 sampling techniques. The results indicate that there can be marked differences among operationally different porewater sampling methods, and it is unclear if there is a definitive best method for sampling metals and DOC in porewater. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:2906–2915. Published 2017 Wiley Periodicals Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
Mining industry and sustainable development: time for change
Authors: Carvalho Fernando P.
Published: June 2017

Mining industries provide most of the materials we rely on to build infrastructures and instruments of daily use, to obtain large amounts of energy, and to supply agriculture with fertilizers that enable most of foods produced. At the same time, mining is the human activity that has been more disturbing to environment and is linked to large social impacts and inequalities. Notwithstanding, our future is deeply depending on mining. Several mining sectors, from phosphate to uranium, are reviewed and their current impacts and challenges are discussed. The mining legacy and environmental remediation, the present mining and challenges, and the future mining and society are discussed in relationship with environmental health and sustainable development. It is concluded that current mining practices need to change and contribute to community development with more equity, and to protect better natural resources and ecosystems in order to be environmentally acceptable and compliant with sustainable development objectives.
Impedance and Raman Spectroscopy Study of Effect of H2S on Ni‐YSZ SOFC Anodes
Authors: Mai Thi H. H. , Rosman N. , Sergent N. , Pagnier T.
Published: June 2017

The electrical behavior of a Ni‐YSZ anode of a solid oxid fuel cell (SOFC) cell under H2S has been monitored by impedance spectroscopy combined with in situ Raman spectroscopy and post mortem scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at 500 °C in open circuit potential (OCP) and at 500 mV polarization. In OCP condition, the electrode impedance spectra evolved slowly corresponding quite well to the evolution of Raman signals' intensities. Meanwhile, at 500 mV polarization, the impedance spectra transformed much faster, indicating a quick and severe H2S‐induced poisoning, which is then confirmed by post mortem examinations by SEM with the densification of the bulk anode porous structure with (Ni, S) phase. Based on the experimental data, the elementary steps and location of H2 oxidation are discussed.
Copy number alterations determined by single nucleotide polymorphism array testing in the clinical laboratory are indicative of gene fusions in pediatric cancer patients
Authors: Busse Tracy M. , Roth Jacquelyn J. , Wilmoth Donna , Wainwright Luanne , Tooke Laura , Biegel Jaclyn A.
Published: June 2017

Gene fusions resulting from structural rearrangements are an established mechanism of tumorigenesis in pediatric cancer. In this clinical cohort, 1,350 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐based chromosomal microarrays from 1,211 pediatric cancer patients were evaluated for copy number alterations (CNAs) associated with gene fusions. Karyotype or fluorescence in situ hybridization studies were performed in 42% of the patients. Ten percent of the bone marrow or solid tumor specimens had SNP array‐associated CNAs suggestive of a gene fusion. Alterations involving ETV6, ABL1‐NUP214, EBF1‐PDGFRB, KMT2A(MLL), LMO2‐RAG, MYH11‐CBFB, NSD1‐NUP98, PBX1, STIL‐TAL1, ZNF384‐TCF3, P2RY8‐CRLF2, and RUNX1T1‐RUNX1 fusions were detected in the bone marrow samples. The most common alteration among the low‐grade gliomas was a 7q34 tandem duplication resulting in a KIAA1549‐BRAF fusion. Additional fusions identified in the pediatric brain tumors included FAM131B‐BRAF and RAF1‐QKI. COL1A1‐PDGFB, CRTC1‐MAML2, EWSR1, HEY1, PAX3‐ and PAX7‐FOXO1, and PLAG1 fusions were determined in a variety of solid tumors and a novel potential gene fusion, FGFR1‐USP6, was detected in an aneurysmal bone cyst. The identification of these gene fusions was instrumental in tumor diagnosis. In contrast to hematologic and solid tumors in adults that are predominantly driven by mutations, the majority of hematologic and solid tumors in children are characterized by CNAs and gene fusions. Chromosomal microarray analysis is therefore a robust platform to identify diagnostic and prognostic markers in the clinical setting.
Bone morphogenetic protein signaling governs biliary‐driven liver regeneration in zebrafish through tbx2b and id2a
Authors: Choi Tae‐Young , Khaliq Mehwish , Tsurusaki Shinya , Ninov Nikolay , Stainier Didier Y.R. , Tanaka Minoru , Shin Donghun
Published: June 2017

Upon mild liver injury, new hepatocytes originate from preexisting hepatocytes. However, if hepatocyte proliferation is impaired, a manifestation of severe liver injury, biliary epithelial cells (BECs) contribute to new hepatocytes through BEC dedifferentiation into liver progenitor cells (LPCs), also termed oval cells or hepatoblast‐like cells (HB‐LCs), and subsequent differentiation into hepatocytes. Despite the identification of several factors regulating BEC dedifferentiation and activation, little is known about factors involved in the regulation of LPC differentiation into hepatocytes during liver regeneration. Using a zebrafish model of near‐complete hepatocyte ablation, we show that bone morphogenetic protein (Bmp) signaling is required for BEC conversion to hepatocytes, particularly for LPC differentiation into hepatocytes. We found that severe liver injury led to the up‐regulation of genes involved in Bmp signaling, including smad5, tbx2b, and id2a, in the liver. Bmp suppression did not block BEC dedifferentiation into HB‐LCs; however, the differentiation of HB‐LCs into hepatocytes was impaired due to the maintenance of HB‐LCs in an undifferentiated state. Later Bmp suppression did not affect HB‐LC differentiation but increased BEC number through proliferation. Notably, smad5, tbx2b, and id2a mutants exhibited similar liver regeneration defects as those observed in Bmp‐suppressed livers. Moreover, BMP2 addition promoted the differentiation of a murine LPC line into hepatocytes in vitro. Conclusions: Bmp signaling regulates BEC‐driven liver regeneration through smad5, tbx2b, and id2a: it regulates HB‐LC differentiation into hepatocytes through tbx2b and BEC proliferation through id2a; our findings provide insights into promoting innate liver regeneration as a novel therapy. (Hepatology 2017;66:1616–1630).
Hippocampal neurogenesis and pattern separation: A meta‐analysis of behavioral data
Authors: França Thiago F. A. , Bitencourt Alexandre M. , Maximilla Naiana R. , Barros Daniela M. , Monserrat José M.
Published: June 2017

The generation of new neurons in the hippocampus of adult mammals has become a widely accepted phenomenon, but the functional significance of the adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus is not fully understood. One of the main hypotheses currently investigated suggests that neurogenesis contributes to pattern separation in the dentate gyrus. Many behavioral studies were conducted aiming to test this hypothesis using rodents as animal model. In those studies, researches ablated neurogenesis in the animals and subsequently evaluate them in tests of behavioral pattern separation, that is, behaviors that are thought to rely on the computational process of pattern separation. The results of these studies are varied, with most supporting a role for neurogenesis in pattern separation, but some others not. To address this controversy we performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies evaluating the effect of neurogenesis ablation on behavioral pattern separation. Analysis results indicated that most of the literature in the topic is surprisingly consistent and, although there are two studies with divergent results, the bulk of the literature supports an effect of hippocampal neurogenesis on behavioral pattern separation. We discuss those findings in light of other behavioral effects of hippocampal neurogenesis ablation, limitations of behavioral data and other lines of evidence about the effect of hippocampal neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus.
Predator odor evokes sex‐independent stress responses in male and female Wistar rats and reduces phosphorylation of cyclic‐adenosine monophosphate response element binding protein in the male, but not the female hippocampus
Authors: Homiack Damek , O'Cinneide Emma , Hajmurad Sema , Barrileaux Brett , Stanley Mary , Kreutz Michael R. , Schrader Laura A.
Published: June 2017

Post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by memory disturbances following trauma. Acute predator threat has emerged as an ethological model of PTSD, yet the effects of predator odor on signaling cascades associated with long‐term memory remain poorly understood. In this study, we exposed male and female Wistar rats to the synthetic predator odor 2,5‐dihydro‐2,4,5‐trimethylthiazoline (TMT) to assess behavioral and physiological responses as well as rapid modulation of signal transduction cascades associated with learning and memory in the male and female hippocampus. During exposure to TMT in the homecage, both male and female animals displayed robust immobility, avoidance, and altered activity as a function of time. Physiologically, TMT exposure increased circulating corticosterone and blood glucose in both male and female rodents, suggesting that TMT evokes sex‐independent behavioral and physiological responses. With respect to signal transduction, TMT exposure rapidly reduced phosphorylation of cyclic‐adenosine monophosphate response element binding protein (CREB) in the male, but not the female hippocampus. Furthermore, TMT exposure reduced phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 and increased nuclear expression of the synapto‐nuclear messenger protein Jacob in the male hippocampus, consistent with activation of the CREB shut‐off pathway. In a follow‐up behavioral experiment, post‐training exposure to TMT did not affect spatial water maze performance of male rats. However, male rats re‐introduced to the context in which TMT had previously been presented displayed avoidance and hyperactivity, but not freezing behavior or elevated corticosterone responses, suggesting that TMT exposure supports a form of contextual conditioning which is not characterized by immobility. Taken together, our findings suggest that TMT evokes similar behavioral and physiological responses in male and female Wistar rats, but affects distinct signaling cascades in the male and female hippocampus which may contribute to behavioral disruptions associated with predator exposure.
Pharmaco‐toxicological effects of the novel third‐generation fluorinate synthetic cannabinoids, 5F‐ADBINACA, AB‐FUBINACA, and STS‐135 in mice. In vitro and in vivo studies
Authors: Canazza Isabella , Ossato Andrea , Vincenzi Fabrizio , Gregori Adolfo , Di Rosa Fabiana , Nigro Federica , Rimessi Alessandro , Pinton Paolo , Varani Katia , Borea Pier Andrea , Marti Matteo
Published: June 2017

Introduction

5F‐ADBINACA, AB‐FUBINACA, and STS‐135 are 3 novel third‐generation fluorinate synthetic cannabinoids that are illegally marketed as incense, herbal preparations, or research chemicals for their psychoactive cannabis‐like effects.

Methods

The present study aims at investigating the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activity of 5F‐ADBINACA, AB‐FUBINACA, and STS‐135 in male CD‐1 mice, comparing their in vivo effects with those caused by the administration of Δ9‐THC and JWH‐018. In vitro competition binding experiments revealed a nanomolar affinity and potency of the 5F‐ADBINACA, AB‐FUBINACA, and STS‐135 on mouse and human CB1 and CB2 receptors. Moreover, these synthetic cannabinoids induced neurotoxicity in murine neuro‐2a cells.

Results

In vivo studies showed that 5F‐ADBINACA, AB‐FUBINACA, and STS‐135 induced hypothermia; increased pain threshold to both noxious mechanical and thermal stimuli; caused catalepsy; reduced motor activity; impaired sensorimotor responses (visual, acoustic, and tactile); caused seizures, myoclonia, and hyperreflexia; and promoted aggressiveness in mice. Behavioral and neurological effects were fully prevented by the selective CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist AM 251. Differently, the visual sensory response induced by STS‐135 was only partly prevented by the AM 251, suggesting a CB1‐independent mechanism.

Conclusions

For the first time, the present study demonstrates the pharmaco‐toxicological effects induced by the administration of 5F‐ADBINACA, AB‐FUBINACA, and STS‐135 in mice and suggests their possible detrimental effects on human health.
Improvement of Giant Cell Lesions of the Jaw Treated With High and Low Doses of Denosumab: A Case Series
Authors: Kim Tara S , Usera Gianina L , Ruggiero Salvatore L , Weinerman Stuart A
Published: June 2017

Giant cell tumors (GCTs) and central giant cell granulomas (CGCGs) are aggressive lesions that appear in the jaw. These lesions occur in the second and third decades of life and often arise in the mandible. Clinical manifestations of these lesions vary from asymptomatic to symptomatic tooth displacement with cortical perforation. GCTs, which are characterized by multinucleated osteoclast‐type giant cells that express receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB (RANK) ligand, rarely present in the jaw and have overlapping histopathologic features with CGCGs, which are composed of fibroblastic stromal cell lesions. GCTs and CGCGs have overlying histopathologic features that make distinction between the two challenging. There is a real controversy as to whether giant cell tumors and central giant cell granulomas are in fact, one and the same lesion. The majority of GCTs occur in the long bone, with surgery being the typical therapeutic option. Denosumab as a treatment modality is a fairly new concept that has been used effectively in GCTs affecting long bones. There is less experience, however, with its use for jaw lesions. This seven‐case series describes the effective use of both low‐dose and high‐dose denosumab in the treatment of GCTs and CGCGs affecting the jaw and special dosing considerations for younger patients who present with disease. © 2017 The Authors. JBMR Plus Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Association of a reactive intermediate derived from 1′,6‐dihydroxy metabolite with benzbromarone‐induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Yoshida Mina , Cho Naoki , Akita Hidetaka , Kobayashi Kaoru
Published: June 2017

Treatment with benzbromarone can be associated with liver injury, but the detailed mechanism remains unknown. Our recent studies demonstrated that benzbromarone was metabolized to 1′,6‐dihydroxybenzbromarone and followed by formation of reactive intermediates that were trapped by glutathione, suggesting that the reactive intermediates may be responsible for the liver injury. The aim of this study was to clarify whether the reactive intermediates derived from 1′,6‐dihydroxybenzbromarone is a risk factor of liver injury in mice. An incubation study using mouse liver microsomes showed that the rates of formation of 1′,6‐dihydroxybenzbromarone from benzbromarone were increased by pretreatment with dexamethasone. Levels of a hepatic glutathione adduct derived from 1′,6‐dihydroxybenzbromarone were increased by pretreatment with dexamethasone. Furthermore, plasma alanine amino transferase activities were increased in mice treated with benzbromarone after pretreatment with dexamethasone. The results suggest that the reactive intermediate derived from 1′,6‐dihydroxybenzbromarone may be associated with liver injury.
Peptidomic Analysis of Maternal Serum to Identify Biomarker Candidates for Prenatal Diagnosis of Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Zhuang Bin , Hu Yin , Fan Xuemei , Li Mengmeng , Zhu Jingai , Liu Heng , Cao Li , Liang Dong , Zhang Jingjing , Yu Zhangbin , Han Shuping
Published: June 2017

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common form of cyanotic congenital heart disease. To identify endogenous peptides possibly involved in the progression of TOF, we performed comparative peptidomic profiling of maternal serum between normal fetuses and fetuses suffering from TOF. A total of 278 differentially expressed peptides, including 94 over‐expressed peptides and 184 under‐expressed peptides, originating from 227 protein precursors were identified by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) in maternal serum of fetuses with TOF compared to normal controls. Further, ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) was used to identify putative roles for these peptides in cardiovascular development. Two peptides were derived from functional domains of proteins involved in heart development and associated with TOF; these may represent candidate bioactive peptides involved in TOF. These peptides may be related to the pathologic changes in the heart associated with TOF, and may be useful as novel biomarkers for prenatal diagnosis of TOF. J. Cell. Biochem. 119: 468–477, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Altered Expression of MicroRNAs in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Tavasolian Fataneh , Abdollahi Elham , Rezaei Ramin , Momtazi‐borojeni Amir Abbas , Henrotin Yves , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: June 2017

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common types of inflammatory joint diseases. Women, smokers, and people with positive family history are more susceptible to this disease. Diagnostic criteria include at least one swollen joint that has not been caused by other diseases. MicroRNAs are non‐coding RNAs that are evolutionarily conserved and have a length of 18–25 nucleotides. MicroRNAs control gene expression at the post‐transcriptional level via promoting mRNA degradation or translational repression. Recognition of alterations in microRNA status and their respective targets, may offer an opportunity to better identify the pathways that are involved in the etiopathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. It has been suggested that microRNAs may serve as potential biomarkers for both diagnosis and prognosis of autoimmune diseases. Here, we review the available evidence on the deregulations of microRNA expression in rheumatoid arthritis. More precisely, this review focuses on the microRNA involved in T cell regulation and gives perspectives on the use of this microRNA as biomarkers of diagnosis, prognosis, or intervention efficacy. J. Cell. Biochem. 119: 478–487, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Age‐dependent changes in physical performance and body composition in community‐dwelling Japanese older adults
Authors: Makizako Hyuma , Shimada Hiroyuki , Doi Takehiko , Tsutsumimoto Kota , Lee Sangyoon , Lee Sung Chul , Harada Kazuhiro , Hotta Ryo , Nakakubo Sho , Bae Seongryu , Harada Kenji , Yoshida Daisuke , Uemura Kazuki , Anan Yuya , Park Hyuntae , Suzuki Takao
Published: June 2017

Background

The aim of this study was to describe the age‐dependent changes in the parameters of physical performance and body composition in Japanese older adults who are independently dwelling in the community. We also examined whether the age‐dependent changes differ among physical performance and body composition parameters.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data from 10 092 community‐dwelling older adults (mean age 73.6 years; 5296 women) were analyzed. The measures of physical performance included hand‐grip strength, the five‐times‐sit‐to‐stand test, and walking speed. Body composition parameters (body weight, fat mass, and appendicular skeletal muscle mass) were measured with a bioelectrical impedance analyser. Correlations between age and the physical performance and body composition parameters were tested. The T‐scores of physical performance and body composition measurements were calculated and presented according to 5‐year age groups to examine the differences in age‐dependent changes in physical performance and body composition parameters.

Results

All physical performance measures significantly decreased with aging. The cumulative mean T‐scores according to age group showed different age‐dependent changes between body mass index (BMI) and appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) (cumulative mean T‐score change of BMI and ASMI of −5.7 to −2.9 and −12.7 to −12.1, respectively). The slope declines in age‐associated changes were greater in grip strength (β = −0.77, 95% confidence interval = −0.82 to −0.76) for men and in walking speed (β = −0.95, 95% confidence interval = −0.99 to −0.90) for women.

Conclusions

The patterns of age‐dependent decreases in physical performance measures differed among parameters and between sexes. There is a possibility of a difference in the age‐related slope patterns among parameters; decreases in grip strength in men and walking speed in women may be more prominent with advancing age. Furthermore, the decrease in ASMI with age is more striking than that of BMI.
Estimating apparent maximum muscle stress of trunk extensor muscles in older adults using subject‐specific musculoskeletal models
Authors: Burkhart Katelyn A. , Bruno Alexander G. , Bouxsein Mary L. , Bean Jonathan F. , Anderson Dennis E.
Published: June 2017

Maximum muscle stress (MMS) is a critical parameter in musculoskeletal modeling, defining the maximum force that a muscle of given size can produce. However, a wide range of MMS values have been reported in literature, and few studies have estimated MMS in trunk muscles. Due to widespread use of musculoskeletal models in studies of the spine and trunk, there is a need to determine reasonable magnitude and range of trunk MMS. We measured trunk extension strength in 49 participants over 65 years of age, surveyed participants about low back pain, and acquired quantitative computed tomography (QCT) scans of their lumbar spines. Trunk muscle morphology was assessed from QCT scans and used to create a subject‐specific musculoskeletal model for each participant. Model‐predicted extension strength was computed using a trunk muscle MMS of 100 N/cm2. The MMS of each subject‐specific model was then adjusted until the measured strength matched the model‐predicted strength (±20 N). We found that measured trunk extension strength was significantly higher in men. With the initial constant MMS value, the musculoskeletal model generally over‐predicted trunk extension strength. By adjusting MMS on a subject‐specific basis, we found apparent MMS values ranging from 40 to 130 N/cm2, with an average of 75.5 N/cm2 for both men and women. Subjects with low back pain had lower apparent MMS than subjects with no back pain. This work incorporates a unique approach to estimate subject‐specific trunk MMS values via musculoskeletal modeling and provides a useful insight into MMS variation. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:498–505, 2018.
Environmental change and raw material selection strategies at Taoshan: a terminal Late Pleistocene to Holocene site in north‐eastern China
Authors: Yang Shi‐Xia , Zhang Yu‐Xiu , Li You‐Qian , Zhao Chao , Li Xiao‐Qiang , Yue Jian‐Ping , Hou Ya‐Mei , Deng Cheng‐Long , Zhu Ri‐Xiang , Petraglia Michael D.
Published: June 2017

The Lesser Khingan Mountains of north‐eastern China are heavily forested, making archaeological site identification difficult owing to poor ground surface visibility. Nevertheless, several prehistoric archaeological site discoveries have been made in recent years and a limited number of excavations have been initiated. One of the most important sites to emerge is Taoshan, which has yielded stratified stone tool assemblages dating from the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) to the mid‐Holocene. Pollen profiles indicate significant changes in vegetation, fluctuating from steppe conditions during the LGM to forested conditions in the Bølling–Allerød interstadial (B–A) and the mid‐Holocene. The stone tool assemblages from Taoshan were primarily produced from varieties of volcanic tuff, rhyolite, hornfels and agate. Geological prospecting and petrological analyses were performed to document procurement sources and changes in raw material exploitation strategies. During the LGM, the predominant raw material was vitric tuff, available from a source ca. 5–10 km from Taoshan. In the B–A and mid‐Holocene layers, emphasis was on the exploitation of raw materials in gravel bars, although stone tool reduction techniques and raw material preferences changed considerably during this time interval. Diachronic changes in raw materials and exploitation strategies correspond to changes in vegetation and human adaptations.
A probabilistic method of assessing carbon accumulation rate at Imnavait Creek Peatland, Arctic Long Term Ecological Research Station, Alaska
Authors: Nichols Jonathan E. , Peteet Dorothy M. , Frolking Steve , Karavias John
Published: June 2017

Arctic peatlands are an important part of the global carbon cycle, accumulating atmospheric carbon as organic matter since the Late glacial. Current methods for understanding the changing efficiency of the peatland carbon sink rely on peatlands with an undisturbed stratigraphy. Here we present a method of estimating primary carbon accumulation rate from a site where permafrost processes have either vertically or horizontally translocated nearby carbon‐rich sediment out of stratigraphic order. Briefly, our new algorithm estimates the probability of the age of deposition of a random increment of sediment in the core. The method assumes that if sediment age is measured at even depth increments, dates are more likely to occur during intervals of higher accumulation rate and vice versa. Multiplying estimated sedimentation rate by measured carbon density yields carbon accumulation rate. We perform this analysis at the Imnavait Creek Peatland, near the Arctic Long Term Ecological Research network site at Toolik Lake, Alaska. Using classical radiocarbon age modeling, we find unreasonably high rates of carbon accumulation at various Holocene intervals. With our new method, we find accumulation rate changes that are in improved agreement within the context of other sites throughout Alaska and the rest of the Circum‐Arctic region.
Contrasting evidence of Holocene ice margin retreat, south‐western Greenland
Authors: Levy L. B. , Larsen N. K. , Davidson T. A. , Strunk A. , Olsen J. , Jeppesen E.
Published: June 2017

Constraining the Greenland Ice Sheet's (GrIS) response to Holocene climate change provides calibrations for ice sheet models that hindcast past ice margin fluctuations. Ice sheet models predict enhanced ice retreat in south‐western Greenland during the middle Holocene; however, few geological observations corroborating the extensive retreat are available. We present new data from lake sediment cores from the Isua region, south‐western Greenland, which provide constraints on Holocene fluctuations of the GrIS margins. Our data indicate that the main GrIS margin was 30 km west of its present‐day extent by ∼5.7k cal a BP and had retreated to within 3 km of its present‐day margin by ∼4.6k cal a BP; with subsequent re‐advances by ∼1.8 and at ∼1.7, ∼1.3 and ∼0.5k cal a BP. Times of ice retreat are coeval with increasing temperatures in western Greenland, suggesting that temperature was a dominant factor in ice retreat. The late retreat at Isua is in contrast to the early retreat observed in the Godthåbsfjord area and is probably related to the lack of fjords extending to the present Isua ice margin. Our data are not consistent with current ice sheet models that overestimate the middle Holocene ice retreat in the Isua region of south‐western Greenland.
Applying portable Raman spectrometers for field discrimination of sulfates: Training for successful extraterrestrial detection
Authors: Košek Filip , Culka Adam , Drahota Petr , Jehlička Jan
Published: June 2017

The presence of sulfates containing Mg, Fe, and Ca (in several hydration states) has been confirmed on Mars from data acquired by both orbital and in‐situ measurements. It has been suggested that the sulfates on Mars originated deep the past from the evaporation of water at accumulation points on the Martian surface. Consequently, they can be seen as highly relevant to any search for the presence of extraterrestrial life.

Miniaturized Raman spectrometers (which permit analysis of the mineralogical and molecular composition of a specimen) will be included in rovers on future planetary exploration missions. Portable miniature Raman spectrometers operating in the near‐infrared (785 nm) and in the green (532 nm, currently selected for the ExoMars mission) were used on‐site to estimate the mineralogical compositions of sulfate weathering crusts at Valachov (Bohemian Massif, Czech Republic). Spectra of sufficient quality were quickly obtained, and the characteristic shifts of the sulfate ν1 band of the minerals allowed for the discrimination of several sulfates. Superficial crusts contained gypsum, jarosite, rozenite, fibroferrite, magnesiocopiapite, and melanterite as major components. The current testing has confirmed the favorable performance of handheld instruments for the discrimination of structurally similar sulfates of relevance for studies on Mars. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aroma‐volatile profile of black morel (Morchella importuna) grown in Israel
Authors: Tietel Zipora , Masaphy Segula
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

A headspace solid‐phase microextraction method with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was used to profile the aroma volatiles of mature fruiting bodies of Morchella importuna grown in Israel.

RESULTS

We tentatively identified 40 aroma compounds and seven unknown volatiles. The M. importuna aroma profile consisted of 14 aldehydes, six alcohols, 10 methyl esters, four heterocyclic/sulfur compounds, 10 carbohydrates and three other compounds (i.e. one acid, one ketone and one butyl ester). The most abundant volatiles were carbohydrates, with a total relative peak area of 29.3%, followed by alcohols (27.7%), aldehydes (21.6%), methyl esters (10.8%), heterocyclic/sulfur compounds (3.1%) and other compounds (5.8%). The 8‐carbon (C8) compounds imparting typical mushroom‐like aroma were very abundant in M. importuna, accounting for 27.9% of the total peak area and including, amongst others, 1‐octen‐3‐ol (80% of total C8), octanal and 2‐octenal (Z‐ and E‐).

CONCLUSION

The aroma volatile profile of morels has much in common with that of other mushrooms, with a few unique characteristics. To our knowledge, this is the first detailed report of the aroma profile of M. importuna. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Competitiveness of overseas pleasure destinations: A comparison study based on choice sets
Authors: Kozak Metin , Kim Seongseop (Sam) , Chon Kaye
Published: June 2017

This study investigates the competitiveness of overseas destinations as perceived by leisure tourists from mainland China, with a focus on how the competitiveness of destinations varies by choice set. The results of this study confirm the funnel‐down structure of consumer choice sets including the early choice set, the middle choice set, and the late choice set: The size of these sets became progressively smaller as the moment for making the final decision drew nearer. In addition, the results clearly indicate that travel distance is an important determinant of tourism demand: Short‐haul destinations are more competitive than long‐haul destinations.
An experience‐based typology for natural event tourists
Authors: Kruger Martinette , Saayman Melville
Published: June 2017

This research identified viable target markets at one of the largest salmon runs in Canada. We segmented the markets according to the factors these natural event viewers regard as important for a memorable experience. This gave us a typology of viewers that we labelled “selective experience seekers, tranquil experience seekers, comprehensive experience seekers,” and “casual experience seekers.” Our results show that such segmentation is a useful research tool for producing a clear visitor profile. It enabled us to provide strategic insights for managing the salmon run viewing experience, and similar natural events, according to the preferences of specific market segments.