bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Finite Element Simulation of the Upper Airway of Patients with Moderate and Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome
Authors: Luo Huiping , Scholp Austin , Jiang Jack J.
Published: October 2017

Objectives. To investigate the snoring modes of patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome and to discover the main sources of snoring in soft tissue vibrations. Methods. A three-dimensional finite element model was developed with SolidEdge to simulate the human upper airway. The inherent modal simulation was conducted to obtain the frequencies and the corresponding shapes of the soft tissue vibrations. The respiration process was simulated with the fluid-solid interaction method through ANSYS. Results. The first 6 orders of modal vibration were 12 Hz, 18 Hz, 21 Hz, 22 Hz, 36 Hz, and 39 Hz. Frequencies of modes 1, 2, 4, and 5 were from tongue vibrations. Frequencies of modes 3 and 6 were from soft palate vibrations. Steady pressure distribution and air distribution lines in the upper airway were shown clearly in the fluid-solid interaction simulation results. Conclusions. We were able to observe the vibrations of soft tissue and the modeled airflow by applying the finite element methods. Future studies could focus on improving the soft tissues vibration compliances by adjusting the model parameters. Additionally, more attention should be paid to vibrational components below 20 Hz when performing an acoustic analysis of human snore sounds due to the presence of these frequencies in this model.
Dental Implant Surrounding Marginal Bone Level Evaluation: Platform Switching versus Platform Matching—One-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Salamanca Eisner , Lin Jerry C.-Y. , Tsai Chi-Yang , Hsu Yung-Szu , Huang Haw-Ming , Teng Nai-Chia , Wang Peter D. , Feng Sheng-Wei , Chen May-Show , Chang Wei-Jen
Published: October 2017

The benefits and feasibility of platform switching have been discussed in several studies, reporting lesser crestal bone loss in platform-switched implants than in platform-matched implants. Objective. The aim of the present study was to observe the changes in vertical and horizontal marginal bone levels in platform-switched and platform-matched dental implants. Materials and Methods. 51 patients received 60 dental implants in the present study over a 1-year period. Measurement was performed between the implant shoulder and the most apical and horizontal marginal defect by periapical radiographs to examine the changes of peri-implant alveolar bone before and 12 months after prosthodontic restoration delivery. Results. These marginal bone measurements showed a bone gain of 0.23±0.58 mm in the vertical gap and 0.22±0.53 mm in the horizontal gap of platform matching, while in platform switching a bone gain of 0.93±1 mm (P<0.05) in the vertical gap and 0.50±0.56 mm in the horizontal gap was found. The average vertical gap reduction from the baseline until 12 months was 0.92±1.11 mm in platform switching and 0.29±0.85 mm in platform matching (P<0.05). Conclusions. Within the limitations of the present study, platform switching seemed to be more effective for a better peri-implant alveolar bone vertical and horizontal gap reduction at 1 year.
miR-195-5p Suppresses the Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Targeting TRIM14
Authors: Wang Tong , Ren Yipeng , Liu Ruixun , Ma Juntao , Shi Yueyi , Zhang Lei , Bu Rongfa
Published: October 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an essential role in tumor biological processes through interacting with specific gene targets. The involvement of miR-195-5p in cell proliferation, invasion, and migration has been demonstrated in several cancer cell lines, while its function in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains unclear. Here we find that miR-195-5p expression is lower in OSCC than in nontumor tissues, while its overexpression in cell lines can lead to the promotion of apoptosis and the reduction of cell growth, migration, and invasion. Moreover, we identify the tripartite motif-containing protein (TRIM14) as a target of miR-195-5p. Therefore, we reason that the tumor suppressor role of miR-195-5p in OSCC is dependent on the interaction with TRIM14.
Punctaporonins N–S, New Caryophyllene Sesquiterpenoids from Cytospora sp.
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Qingbin , Liu Xingzhong , Che Yongsheng
Published: October 2017

Six new caryophyllene sesquiterpenoids, punctaporonins N–S (1–6), and three known ones, 6-hydroxypunctaporonins B (7), A (8), and E (9), have been isolated from solid cultures of Cytospora sp. The structures of 1–6 were elucidated primarily by NMR spectroscopy. The absolute configuration of 1 was assigned by X-ray crystallographic analysis of its S-MTPA ester. Compounds 2, 5, and 6 showed modest cytotoxicity against HeLa cells.
Parastomal Hernia Repair with Intraperitoneal Mesh
Authors: Näsvall Pia , Rutegård Jörgen , Dahlberg Michael , Gunnarsson Ulf , Strigård Karin
Published: October 2017

Purpose. Parastomal hernia is a common complication following a stoma and may cause leakage or incarceration. No optimal treatment has been established, and existing methods using mesh repair are associated with high recurrence rates and a considerable risk for short- and long-term complications including death. A double-layer intraperitoneal on-lay mesh (IPOM), the Parastomal Hernia Patch (BARD™), consisting of ePTFE and polypropylene, has been developed and tailored to avoid recurrence. To evaluate the safety of and recurrence rate using this mesh, a nonrandomised prospective multicentre study was performed. Method. Fifty patients requiring surgery for parastomal hernia were enrolled. Clinical examination and CT scan prior to surgery were performed. All patients were operated on using the Parastomal Hernia Patch (BARD). Postoperative follow-up at one month and one year was scheduled to detect complications and hernia recurrence. Results. The postoperative complication rate at one month was 15/50 (30%). The parastomal hernia recurrence rate at one year was 11/50 (22%). The reoperation rate at one month was 7/50 (14%), and further 5/50 (10%) patients were reoperated on during the following eleven months.
The Monitoring of Palazzo Lombardia in Milan
Authors: Berardengo Marta , Busca Giorgio , Grossi Simone , Manzoni Stefano , Vanali Marcello
Published: October 2017

This paper discusses the monitoring of Palazzo Lombardia, one of the tallest high-rise buildings in Italy. First, the layout of the monitoring system is addressed for a general description of the sensors used. The paper provides details about how data coming from transducers are used. Special focus is put on the use of signals acquired by means of accelerometers, which are employed for the estimation of modal parameters through operational modal analysis. The procedure used for choosing the modal analysis algorithm and fixing the values of its main parameters is discussed in detail. The modal identification results on the first eight months of monitoring are discussed in the second part of the manuscript, together with a statistical analysis. This allows for a first model of the relationships between eigenfrequencies and environmental variables aiming at a general structural health monitoring procedure based on the evolution of the building’s modal parameters.
Determination of 2-Propenal Using Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction Coupled to Gas Chromatography–Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry as a Marker for Authentication of Unrefined Sesame Oil
Authors: Mansur Ahmad Rois , Nam Tae Gyu , Jang Hae Won , Cho Yong-Sun , Yoo Miyoung , Seo Dongwon , Ha Jaeho
Published: October 2017

Ascertaining the authenticity of the unrefined sesame oil presents an ongoing challenge. Here, the determination of 2-propenal was performed by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) under mild temperature coupled to gas chromatography with time-of-flight mass spectrometry, enabling the detection of adulteration of unrefined sesame oil with refined corn or soybean oil. Employing this coupled technique, 2-propenal was detected in all tested refined corn and soybean oils but not in any of the tested unrefined sesame oil samples. Using response surface methodology, the optimum extraction temperature, equilibrium time, and extraction time for the HS-SPME analysis of 2-propenal using carboxen/polydimethylsiloxane fiber were determined to be 55°C, 15 min, and 15 min, respectively, for refined corn oil and 55°C, 25 min, and 15 min, respectively, for refined soybean oil. Under these optimized conditions, the adulteration of unrefined sesame oil with refined corn or soybean oils (1–5%) was successfully detected. The detection and quantification limits of 2-propenal were found to be in the range of 0.008–0.010 and 0.023–0.031 µg mL−1, respectively. The overall results demonstrate the potential of this novel method for the authentication of unrefined sesame oil.
Lenalidomide Enhances the Function of CS1 Chimeric Antigen Receptor–Redirected T Cells Against Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Wang Xiuli , Walter Miriam , Urak Ryan , Weng Lihong , Huynh Christian , Lim Laura , Wong ChingLam W. , Chang Wen-Chung , Thomas Sandra H. , Sanchez James F. , Yang Lu , Brown Christine E. , Pichiorri Flavia , Htut Myo , Krishnan Amrita Y. , Forman Stephen J.
Published: October 2017

Purpose: Multiple myeloma remains an incurable malignancy of plasma cells despite considerable advances in treatment. The purpose of the study was to develop novel chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) for the treatment of multiple myeloma and explore combinatorial therapy using CAR T cells and immunomodulatory drugs such as lenalidomide for increasing treatment efficacy.

Experimental Design: We redirected central memory T cells to express second-generation CAR-specific for CS1 and adoptively transferred them into multiple myeloma tumor-bearing mice to test their anti-multiple myeloma activity. CS1 CAR T cells were transduced and expanded in the presence of lenalidomide in vitro. The phenotype and effector function of CS1 CAR T cells treated with and without lenalidomide were compared. Finally, CS1 CAR T cells and lenalidomide were administered to treat multiple myeloma–bearing mice as combinatorial therapy.

Results: CS1 CAR T cells exhibited efficient antitumor activity when adoptively transferred into mice. Mechanistic studies indicated that the addition of lenalidomide during CS1 CAR T-cell expansion in vitro enhanced the immune functions of CS1 CAR T cells, including cytotoxicity, memory maintenance, Th1 cytokine production, and immune synapse formation. Furthermore, lenalidomide enhanced the antitumor activity and persistence of adoptively transferred CS1 CAR T cells in vivo.

Conclusions: The study demonstrates that lenalidomide improves the anti-multiple myeloma properties of CS1-directed CAR T cells and provides a basis for a planned clinical trial using the combination of lenalidomide with engineered T cells against CS1 in relapsed myeloma. Clin Cancer Res; 24(1); 106–19. ©2017 AACR.
Regional Delivery of Chimeric Antigen Receptor–Engineered T Cells Effectively Targets HER2+ Breast Cancer Metastasis to the Brain
Authors: Priceman Saul J. , Tilakawardane Dileshni , Jeang Brook , Aguilar Brenda , Murad John P. , Park Anthony K. , Chang Wen-Chung , Ostberg Julie R. , Neman Josh , Jandial Rahul , Portnow Jana , Forman Stephen J. , Brown Christine E.
Published: October 2017

Purpose: Metastasis to the brain from breast cancer remains a significant clinical challenge, and may be targeted with CAR-based immunotherapy. CAR design optimization for solid tumors is crucial due to the absence of truly restricted antigen expression and potential safety concerns with “on-target off-tumor” activity. Here, we have optimized HER2-CAR T cells for the treatment of breast to brain metastases, and determined optimal second-generation CAR design and route of administration for xenograft mouse models of breast metastatic brain tumors, including multifocal and leptomeningeal disease.

Experimental Design: HER2-CAR constructs containing either CD28 or 4-1BB intracellular costimulatory signaling domains were compared for functional activity in vitro by measuring cytokine production, T-cell proliferation, and tumor killing capacity. We also evaluated HER2-CAR T cells delivered by intravenous, local intratumoral, or regional intraventricular routes of administration using in vivo human xenograft models of breast cancer that have metastasized to the brain.

Results: Here, we have shown that HER2-CARs containing the 4-1BB costimulatory domain confer improved tumor targeting with reduced T-cell exhaustion phenotype and enhanced proliferative capacity compared with HER2-CARs containing the CD28 costimulatory domain. Local intracranial delivery of HER2-CARs showed potent in vivo antitumor activity in orthotopic xenograft models. Importantly, we demonstrated robust antitumor efficacy following regional intraventricular delivery of HER2-CAR T cells for the treatment of multifocal brain metastases and leptomeningeal disease.

Conclusions: Our study shows the importance of CAR design in defining an optimized CAR T cell, and highlights intraventricular delivery of HER2-CAR T cells for treating multifocal brain metastases. Clin Cancer Res; 24(1); 95–105. ©2017 AACR.
Vitamin E-Coated Dialyzer Inhibits Oxidative Stress
Authors: Yamadera Shiho , Nakamura Yuya , Inagaki Masahiro , Ohsawa Isao , Gotoh Hiromichi , Goto Yoshikazu , Sato Naoki , Oguchi Tatsunori , Gomi Yurika , Tsuji Mayumi , Kiuchi Yuji , Iwai Shinichi
Published: October 2017

Aim: To examine the effects of vitamin E-coated dialyzer on oxidative stress in vitro. Methods: A dialyzer with a synthetic polymer membrane (APS-11SA) and vitamin E-coated dialyzer (VPS-11SA) were connected to a blood tubing line, and U937 cells were circulated in the device. The circulating fluid was collected at 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cycles, which are estimated numbers of passes through the dialyzer. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, malondialdehyde (MDA), and Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD) were quantified. Results: Intracellular ROS production was increased in the first cycle by APS-11SA and was decreased throughout the experiment by VPS-11SA. Intracellular ROS production in the VPS-11SA device was lower, and MDA levels were decreased. MDA levels were lower during VPS-11SA processing than during APS-11SA processing. Cu/Zn-SOD levels remained unchanged. Conclusion: Our results highlight anti-oxidative-stress effects of a vitamin E-coated dialyzer.
Low-Frequency Components in Rat Pial Arteriolar Rhythmic Diameter Changes
Authors: Lapi Dominga , Mastantuono Teresa , Di Maro Martina , Varanini Maurizio , Colantuoni Antonio
Published: October 2017

This study aimed to analyze the frequency components present in spontaneous rhythmic diameter changes in rat pial arterioles. Pial microcirculation was visualized by fluorescence microscopy. Rhythmic luminal variations were evaluated via computer-assisted methods. Spectral analysis was carried out on 30-min recordings under baseline conditions and after administration of acetylcholine (Ach), papaverine (Pap), Nω-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA) prior to Ach, indomethacin (INDO), INDO prior to Ach, charybdotoxin and apamin, and charybdotoxin and apamin prior to Ach. Under baseline conditions all arteriolar orders showed 3 frequency components in the ranges of 0.0095-0.02, 0.02-0.06, and 0.06-0.2 Hz, another 2 in the ranges of 0.2-2.0 and 2.5-4.5 Hz, and another ultra-low-frequency component in the range of 0.001-0.0095 Hz. Ach caused a significant increase in the spectral density of the frequency components in the range of 0.001-0.2 Hz. Pap was able to slightly increase spectral density in the ranges of 0.001-0.0095 and 0.0095-0.02 Hz. L-NNA mainly attenuated arteriolar responses to Ach. INDO prior to Ach did not affect the endothelial response to Ach. Charybdotoxin and apamin, suggested as endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor inhibitors, reduced spectral density in the range of 0.001-0.0095 Hz before and after Ach administration. In conclusion, regulation of the blood flow distribution is due to several mechanisms, one of which is affected by charibdotoxin and apamin, modulating the vascular tone.
Evidence for an Association of ERCC1 Expression and Mismatch Repair Status with Overall Survival in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Li Pan , Xiao Zhi-Tao , Braciak Todd A. , Ou Qing-Jian , Chen Gong , Oduncu Fuat S.
Published: October 2017

Background: The aim in this study was to determine if an association of excision repair cross-complementing group 1 (ERCC1) gene and mismatch repair (MMR) status with overall survival (OS) could be found from our analysis of a large cohort of Chinese colorectal cancer patients (CRC). Methods: In total, 2,233 tissue samples isolated from individual CRC tumors were assessed by immunohistochemistry for the expression of ERCC1 and 4 MMR genes. Results: The rates of proficient MMR (pMMR) and ERCC1 expression were 89.6 and 90.7%, respectively. We found that patients with positive ERCC1 expression and deficient (d)MMR status had higher overall survival (OS) than those with either positive ERCC1 and pMMR, negative ERCC1 and dMMR, or negative ERCC1 expression and pMMR status (OS 79 vs. 69 vs. 66 vs. 61%, hazard ratio (HR) 0.90, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.80-1.00; p = 0.043). Despite this finding, we found no statistical difference in OS between ERCC1-positive and -negative CRC patients when ERCC1 expression was considered alone (OS 70 vs. 62%, HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.65-1.04; p = 0.11). Conclusion: Our results indicate that the combined examination of ERCC1 expression and dMMR status can be used to aid OS assessment in CRC patients.
Circulating Cell-Free DNA Levels in Patients with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Rouvinov Keren , Mermershtain Wilmosh , Dresler Hadas , Ariad Samuel , Riff Reut , Shani-Shrem Noa , Keizman Daniel , Douvdevani Amos
Published: October 2017

Background: Limited data about biomarkers are available to predict the outcomes of targeted therapy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Circulating cell-free DNA (CFD) is elevated in various cancers. Patients and Methods: We performed a prospective study of patients with mRCC who received targeted therapy in the Soroka Medical Center between 2013 and 2015. CFD levels were measured using a simple fluorometric assay. Blood samples for CFD were collected before treatment and at weeks 1, 4, 12, 18, and 24 of treatment. The normal cut-off level of CFD was defined as 800 ng/ml. The association of CFD with objective response, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival was tested, with adjustment for known confounding risk factors. Results: A total of 23 patients were included; 18 were treated with first-line therapy and 5 with second- and third-line therapies. Patients with normal pretreatment CFD level had a better PFS versus patients with increased levels (p = 0.023). In multivariate analysis, factors associated with PFS were pretreatment CFD levels (p = 0.020) and Heng risk (p = 0.006). Conclusions: Elevated pretreatment CFD levels measured using a simple fluorometric assay may be associated with a worse PFS in patients with mRCC. A larger prospective study is warranted in order to validate our observation.
CD34+CD38-CD123+ Cells Are Present in Virtually All Acute Myeloid Leukaemia Blasts: A Promising Single Unique Phenotype for Minimal Residual Disease Detection
Authors: Al-Mawali Adhra , Pinto Avinash Daniel , Al-Zadjali Shoaib
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: In CD34-positive acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), the leukaemia-initiating event likely takes place in the CD34+CD38- cell compartment. CD123 has been shown to be a unique marker of leukaemic stem cells within the CD34+CD38- compartment. The aim of this study was to identify the percentage of CD34+CD38-CD123+ cells in AML blasts, AML CD34+CD38- stem cells, and normal and regenerating bone marrow CD34+CD38- stem cells from non-myeloid malignancies. Methods: Thirty-eight adult de novo AML patients with intention to treat were enrolled after the application of inclusion criteria from February 2012 to February 2017. The percentage of the CD34+CD38-CD123+ phenotype in the blast population at diagnosis was determined using a CD45-gating strategy and CD34+ backgating by flow cytometry. We studied the CD34+CD38-CD123+ fraction in AML blasts at diagnosis, and its utility as a unique phenotype for minimal residual disease (MRD) of AML patients. Results: CD123+ cells were present in 97% of AML blasts in patients at diagnosis (median 90%; range 21-99%). CD123+ cells were also present in 97% of the CD34+CD38- compartment (median 0.8164%, range 0.0262-39.7%). Interestingly, CD123 was not present in normal and regenerating CD34+CD38- bone marrow stem cells (range 0.002- 0.067 and 0.004-0.086, respectively). Conclusion: The CD34+CD38-CD123+ phenotype is present in virtually all AML blasts and it may be used as a unique single phenotype for MRD detection in AML patients.
Efficacy, Safety and Mucosal Healing of Methotrexate in a Large Longitudinal Cohort of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients
Authors: Rouiller-Braunschweig Carole , Fournier Nicolas , Pittet Valérie , Dudler Jean , Michetti Pierre
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Evidence for the effectiveness of methotrexate (MTX) in treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is still incomplete. This study assessed the effectiveness, safety and mucosal healing in IBD patients treated with MTX in the Swiss IBD Cohort. Methods: Efficacy was defined by physician assessment or by CD activity index <150 points for Crohn’s disease (CD) or Modified Truelove and Witts activity index <4 points for ulcerative colitis (UC), measured at least after 3 months of MTX therapy. Mucosal healing was evaluated after 3 months or more of therapy. Results: MTX was administered to 341 patients (262 CD; 79 UC) out of 2,660 patients. MTX effectiveness was 59.5% (128/215) in CD and 40.0% (24/60) in UC (chi2 = 7.2409, p = 0.007). Among patients on MTX therapy at the time of analysis, remission was obtained in 87.4% (76/87) and 69.2% (9/13) for CD and UC patients respectively. The median duration of MTX therapy was 40 months for CD and 15 months for UC. Occurrence of adverse events was the first reason for treatment discontinuation (39.4% of all cases). The rate of mucosal healing with MTX was 9.5% for CD and 25% for UC patients respectively. Conclusion: MTX therapy was effective for the induction and maintenance therapy in IBD patients, with only a modest mucosal healing ability.
Protective Effects of Sonic Hedgehog Against Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Mouse Skeletal Muscle via AKT/mTOR/p70S6K Signaling
Authors: Zeng Qiu , Fu Qining , Wang Xuehu , Zhao Yu , Liu Hong , Li Zhui , Li Fenghe
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Skeletal muscle ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a common and severe disease. Sonic hedgehog (Shh) plays a critical role in post-natal skeletal muscle regeneration. In the present study, the role of Shh in skeletal muscle I/R injury and the mechanisms involved were investigated. Methods: The expression of Shh, AKT/mTOR/p70S6K and apoptosis pathway components were evaluated following tourniquet-induced skeletal muscle I/R injury. Then, mice were subjected to systemic administration of cyclopamine or one-shot treatment of a plasmid encoding the human Shh gene (phShh) to examine the effects of Shh on I/R injury. Moreover, mice were subjected to systemic administration of NVP-BEZ235 to investigate the role of the AKT/mTOR/p70S6K pathway in Shh-triggered skeletal muscle protection. Results: We found that the levels of Shh, AKT/mTOR/p70S6K pathway components and Cleaved Caspase 3 and the Bax/Bcl2 ratio initially increased and then decreased at different time points post-I/R injury. Moreover, Shh protected skeletal muscle against I/R injury by alleviating muscle destruction, reducing interstitial fibrosis and inhibiting apoptosis, and these protective effects were abrogated when the AKT/mTOR/p70S6K pathway was inhibited. Conclusion: Collectively, these data suggest that Shh signaling exerts a protective role through the AKT/mTOR/p70S6K signaling pathway during skeletal muscle I/R injury. Thus, Shh signaling may be a therapeutic target for protecting skeletal muscle from I/R injury.
A Novel Positive Feedback Loop Between NTSR1 and Wnt/β-Catenin Contributes to Tumor Growth of Glioblastoma
Authors: Xiao Hualiang , Zeng Ying , Wang Qiushi , Wei Shirong , Zhu Xiangfeng
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Neurotensin (NTS), an intestinal hormone, is profoundly implicated in cancer progression through binding its primary receptor NTSR1. The conserved Wnt/β-Catenin pathway regulates cell proliferation and differentiation via activation of the β-catenin/T-cell factor (TCF) complex and subsequent modulation of a set of target genes. In this study, we aimed to uncover the potential connection between NTS/NTSR1 signaling and Wnt/β-Catenin pathway. Methods: Genetic silencing, pharmacological inhibition and gain-of-function studies as well as bioinformatic analysis were performed to uncover the link between NTS/ NTSR1 signaling and Wnt/β-Catenin pathway. Two inhibitors were used in vivo to evaluate the efficiency of targeting NTS/NTSR1 signaling or Wnt/β-Catenin pathway. Results: We found that NTS/NTSR1 induced the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and the NF-κB pathway, which further promoted the expression of Wnt proteins, including Wnt1, Wnt3a and Wnt5a. Meanwhile, the mRNA and protein expression levels of NTSR1 were increased by the Wnt pathway activator Wnt3a and decreased by the Wnt inhibitor iCRT3 in glioblastoma cells. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of NTS/NTSR1 or Wnt/β-Catenin signaling suppressed tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. Conclusion: These results reveal a positive feedback loop between NTS/NTSR1 and Wnt/β-Catenin signaling in glioblastoma cells that might be important for tumor development and provide potential therapeutic targets for glioblastoma.
Curcumin-Loaded Nanoparticles Protect Against Rhabdomyolysis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Chen Xiaoling , Sun Jian , Li Hailun , Wang Hongwu , Lin Yongtao , Hu Yu , Zheng Donghui
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Rhabdomyolysis (RM) is a potentially life-threatening condition that results from the breakdown of muscle and consequent release of toxic compounds into circulation. The most common and severe complication of RM is acute kidney injury (AKI). This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and mechanisms of action of curcumin-loaded nanoparticles (Cur-NP) for treatment of RM-induced AKI. Methods: Curcumin-NP was synthesized using the nanocarrier distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine-polyethylene glycol (DSPE-PEG) to achieve a prolonged and constant drug release profile compared with the curcumin-free group. The anti-AKI effects of Curcumin-NP were examined both in vitro (myoglobin-treated renal tubular epithelial HK-2 cells) and in vivo (glycerol-induced AKI model). Results: Our results indicated that Curcumin-NP reversed oxidative stress, growth inhibition and cell apoptosis accompanied with down-regulation of apoptotic markers Caspase-3 and GRP-78 in vitro. In vivo studies revealed enhanced AKI treatment efficacy with Curcumin-NP as characterized by reduced serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK), creatinine (Cr) and urea and less severe histological damage in renal tubules. In addition, kidney tissues from Curcumin-NP-treated AKI rats exhibited reduced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and cleaved Capase-3 and GRP-78 expression. Conclusion: Our results suggest that nanoparticle-loaded curcumin enhances treatment efficacy for RM-induced AKI both in vitro and in vivo.
CELLULASE PRODUCTION BY Bacillus subtilis M1 USING PRETREATED GROUNDNUT SHELL BASED LIQUID STATE FERMENTATION
Authors: Vyas Ashish Kr , Putatunda Chayanika , Singh Joginder , Vyas Deepak
Published: October 2017

Groundnut shell which is rich in natural cellulose was assessed as a substrate for production of cellulase enzyme by cellulolytic bacteria. In the present investigation the bacterial isolate Bacillus subtilis M1 was found to be capable of producing high amount of endoglucanase and exoglucanase on alkali treated groundnut shell. The effect of some nitrogen sources, amino acids and Ca++ ionsin the medium containing pretreated groundnut shell were also evaluated. It was observed that 2% substrate concentration, 1mM calcium concentration were optimum for cellulase production. Ammonium nitrate was found to be the best among nitrogen sources tested. Asparagine, tryptophan and methionine were found to be stimulatory for cellulase activity.Keywords: Bacillus subtilis, cellulase, endoglucanase, exoglucanase, groundnut shell
THE MINIMUM NUMBER OF VALVES FOR DIATOMS IDENTIFICATION IN RAWAPENING LAKE, CENTRAL JAVA
Authors: Soeprobowati Tri Retnaningsih , Tandjung S. Djalal , Sutikno Sutikno , Hadisusanto Suwarno , Gell Peter
Published: October 2017

Technical challenges in using diatoms for paleolimnological work are the identification and enumeration of diatom valves. Variations exist in the minimum number of valves to identify, ranging from 100 to 700 valves of the dominant species. This task can be very time consuming, particularly when the diatom valves are not abundant. This research was conducted to determine the minimum number of valves to be identified in the diatom assemblages from Rawapening Lake, Central Java, Indonesia. Based on the 314 samples obtained from Rawapening Lake, the diatom efficiency rose above 0.85 upon the minimum count of 300 valves. The number of diatom species identified remained stable after the minimum of 300 valves. Therefore, the minimum number of diatomâ€™s valves identified to represent the assemblage for paleolimnological analysis was 300.
GENETIC DIVERSITY AND TRAIT ASSOCIATION ANALYSIS OF INDONESIAN RICE (Oryza sativa L.) GERMPLASM USING SSR MARKERS
Authors: Fatimah Fatimah , Herlina Lina , Silitonga Tiur Sudiaty
Published: October 2017

Generating a new crop variety with certain desirable traits requires germplasm collection with wide genetic diversity to facilitate accelerated development of improved cultivars. This study was conducted to characterize genetic diversity of Indonesian rice accessions using SSR markers and their agro-morphological characters to allow the identification of Marker Trait Association (MTA). A survey of genetic diversity among 72 traditional landraces of 15 provinces in Indonesia and 24 improved varieties was conducted using four multiplex panels of 14 fluorescent-labeled SSR markers and 22 agro-morphological characters. A total of 140 alleles with an average of 10 alleles per locus and Polymorphism Information Content (PIC) values at 0.73. The population structure identified five subgroups. A total of 4 highly significant MTA were identified. One character with highly significant MTA was number of panicle associated with RM277. Based on SSR marker, RM105 had two MTAs for auricle color and ligule shape. After validation, these MTAs may be deployed to improve rice productivity.
TIGER BEETLES (COLEOPTERA: CARABIDAE: CICINDELINAE) OF COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE, MINDANAO ISLAND, PHILIPPINES
Authors: Medina Milton Norman Dejadena , Cabras Analyn Anzano , Wiesner Jurgen
Published: October 2017

The first faunistic record of tiger beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Cicindelinae) in Compostela Valley Province, Mindanao with notes on their habitat is presented. Opportunistic sampling, standard light trapping and photo documentation were conducted in selected areas from January to April 2013 and in September 2015. One hundred four tiger beetles belonging to twelve species and seven genera were recorded. An astonishing (100%) endemicity was observed identified to subspecies level. Thopeutica and Calomera species, specifically Thopeutica anichtchenkoi Wiesner, 2015 and Calomera mindaoensis Cassola, 2000 were observed to be abundant in the samples mostly found in the mountainous and forested open riparian ecosystem of Cagan, New Bataan. Cylindera (Ifasina) discreta elaphroides (Dokhtouroff 1882) was the most common species and was found in different habitat types, but the majority of the species showed a narrow and specialized habitat preference. Protection and conservation of remaining forest areas in Cagan is especially important in preserving endemic species.
HERBARTIAN IDEAS IN EDUCATIONAL THEORY AND PRACTICE
Authors: Fedchyshyn N. O. , Klishch H. I. , Yelahina N. I.
Published: October 2017

Мета статті – оцінити вплив гербартіанських ідей на освітню теорію і практику.Основна частина. У статті обґрунтовано новий підхід до розв’язання проблеми теорії і практики гербартіанської педагогіки в німецькомовних країнах другої половини ХІХ – ХХ ст. Проаналізовано передумови реформування системи освіти та розкрито оцінку діяльності гербартіанців в історії педагогіки. Виявлено відмінності між поглядами Й.-Ф. Гербарта і гербартіанцями. Установлено, що історія педагогічної думки країн Західної Європи представлена широким спектром різноманітних педагогічних течій та концепцій.Висновки. Зважаючи на особливості дефініцій морально-релігійні уявлення, педагогічний такт, культурно-історичні ступені навчання, встановлено, що гербартіанці акцентували увагу на розвитку дитини відповідно до психологічних  законів й рекомендували підбір розумово-розвиваючого матеріалу, слідуючи ідеї про культурно-історичні ступені й на цій основі підготували та обґрунтували по-новому систему навчального плану, що певною мірою суперечило поглядам їх вчителя.
Relationship Between 24-Hour Ambulatory Central Systolic Blood Pressure and Left Ventricular Mass
Authors: Weber Thomas , Wassertheurer Siegfried , Schmidt-Trucksäss Arno , Rodilla Enrique , Ablasser Cornelia , Jankowski Piotr , Lorenza Muiesan Maria , Giannattasio Cristina , Mang Claudia , Wilkinson Ian , Kellermair Jörg , Hametner Bernhard , Pascual Jose Maria , Zweiker Robert , Czarnecka Danuta , Paini Anna , Salvetti Massimo , Maloberti Alessandro , McEniery Carmel
Published: October 2017

We investigated the relationship between left ventricular mass and brachial office as well as brachial and central ambulatory systolic blood pressure in 7 European centers. Central systolic pressure was measured with a validated oscillometric device, using a transfer function, and mean/diastolic pressure calibration. M-mode images were obtained by echocardiography, and left ventricular mass was determined by one single reader blinded to blood pressure. We studied 289 participants (137 women) free from antihypertensive drugs (mean age: 50.8 years). Mean office blood pressure was 145/88 mm Hg and mean brachial and central ambulatory systolic pressures were 127 and 128 mm Hg, respectively. Mean left ventricular mass was 93.3 kg/m
2
, and 25.6% had left ventricular hypertrophy. The correlation coefficient between left ventricular mass and brachial office, brachial ambulatory, and central ambulatory systolic pressure was 0.29, 0.41, and 0.47, respectively (
P
=0.003 for comparison between brachial office and central ambulatory systolic pressure and 0.32 for comparison between brachial and central ambulatory systolic pressure). The results were consistent for men and women, and young and old participants. The areas under the curve for prediction of left ventricular hypertrophy were 0.618, 0.635, and 0.666 for brachial office, brachial, and central ambulatory systolic pressure, respectively (
P
=0.03 for comparison between brachial and central ambulatory systolic pressure). In younger participants, central ambulatory systolic pressure was superior to both other measurements. Central ambulatory systolic pressure, measured with an oscillometric cuff, shows a strong trend toward a closer association with left ventricular mass and hypertrophy than brachial office/ambulatory systolic pressure.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01278732.
The Uneven Implementation of Universal School Policies: Maternal Education and Florida's Mandatory Grade Retention Policy
Authors: LiCalsi Christina , Ozek Umut , Figlio David
Published: October 2017

Educational accountability policies are a popular tool to close the achievement gaps between advantaged and disadvantaged students. However, these policies may exacerbate inequality if families from advantaged backgrounds are better able to advocate for their children and thus circumvent policy. We investigate this possibility in the context of the early grade retention policy in Florida, which requires all students with reading skills below grade level to be retained in the third grade, yet grants exemptions under special circumstances. We find that Florida's third-grade retention policy is in fact enforced differentially depending on children's socioeconomic background, especially maternal education. Holding exemption eligibility constant, scoring right below the promotion cutoff results in an increase in the probability of retention that is 14 percent greater for children whose mothers have less than a high school degree compared with children whose mothers have a bachelor's degree or more. We also find that the discrepancies in retention rates are mainly driven by the fact that students with well-educated mothers are more likely to be promoted based on subjective exemptions, such as teacher portfolios.
The Neurobiology of Agrammatic Sentence Comprehension: A Lesion Study
Authors: Rogalsky Corianne , LaCroix Arianna N. , Chen Kuan-Hua , Anderson Steven W. , Damasio Hanna , Love Tracy , Hickok Gregory
Published: October 2017

Broca's area has long been implicated in sentence comprehension. Damage to this region is thought to be the central source of “agrammatic comprehension” in which performance is substantially worse (and near chance) on sentences with noncanonical word orders compared with canonical word order sentences (in English). This claim is supported by functional neuroimaging studies demonstrating greater activation in Broca's area for noncanonical versus canonical sentences. However, functional neuroimaging studies also have frequently implicated the anterior temporal lobe (ATL) in sentence processing more broadly, and recent lesion–symptom mapping studies have implicated the ATL and mid temporal regions in agrammatic comprehension. This study investigates these seemingly conflicting findings in 66 left-hemisphere patients with chronic focal cerebral damage. Patients completed two sentence comprehension measures, sentence–picture matching and plausibility judgments. Patients with damage including Broca's area (but excluding the temporal lobe; n = 11) on average did not exhibit the expected agrammatic comprehension pattern—for example, their performance was >80% on noncanonical sentences in the sentence–picture matching task. Patients with ATL damage ( n = 18) also did not exhibit an agrammatic comprehension pattern. Across our entire patient sample, the lesions of patients with agrammatic comprehension patterns in either task had maximal overlap in posterior superior temporal and inferior parietal regions. Using voxel-based lesion–symptom mapping, we find that lower performances on canonical and noncanonical sentences in each task are both associated with damage to a large left superior temporal–inferior parietal network including portions of the ATL, but not Broca's area. Notably, however, response bias in plausibility judgments was significantly associated with damage to inferior frontal cortex, including gray and white matter in Broca's area, suggesting that the contribution of Broca's area to sentence comprehension may be related to task-related cognitive demands.
The Role of Visual Association Cortex in Associative Memory Formation across Development
Authors: Rosen Maya L. , Sheridan Margaret A. , Sambrook Kelly A. , Peverill Matthew R. , Meltzoff Andrew N. , McLaughlin Katie A.
Published: October 2017

Associative learning underlies the formation of new episodic memories. Associative memory improves across development, and this age-related improvement is supported by the development of the hippocampus and pFC. Recent work, however, additionally suggests a role for visual association cortex in the formation of associative memories. This study investigated the role of category-preferential visual processing regions in associative memory across development using a paired associate learning task in a sample of 56 youths (age 6–19 years). Participants were asked to bind an emotional face with an object while undergoing fMRI scanning. Outside the scanner, participants completed a memory test. We first investigated age-related changes in neural recruitment and found linear age-related increases in activation in lateral occipital cortex and fusiform gyrus, which are involved in visual processing of objects and faces, respectively. Furthermore, greater activation in these visual processing regions was associated with better subsequent memory for pairs over and above the effect of age and of hippocampal and pFC activation on performance. Recruitment of these visual processing regions mediated the association between age and memory performance, over and above the effects of hippocampal activation. Taken together, these findings extend the existing literature to suggest that greater recruitment of category-preferential visual processing regions during encoding of associative memories is a neural mechanism explaining improved memory across development.
Quantitative Anatomical Evidence for a Dorsoventral and Rostrocaudal Segregation within the Nonhuman Primate Frontal Cortex
Authors: Blumenfeld Robert S. , Bliss Daniel P. , D'Esposito Mark
Published: October 2017

The intrinsic white matter connections of the frontal cortex are highly complex, and the organization of these connections is not fully understood. Quantitative graph-theoretical methods, which are not solely reliant on human observation and interpretation, can be powerful tools for describing the organizing network principles of frontal cortex. Here, we examined the network structure of frontal cortical subregions by applying graph-theoretical community detection analyses to a graph of frontal cortex compiled from over 400+ macaque white-matter tracing studies. We find evidence that the lateral frontal cortex can be partitioned into distinct modules roughly organized along the dorsoventral and rostrocaudal axis.
Phylogenetic study of Mastigolejeunea (Marchantiophyta: Lejeuneaceae) and an amended circumscription of the genus Thysananthus
Authors: SUKKHARAK PHIANGPHAK , GRADSTEIN S. ROBBERT
Published: October 2017

Mastigolejeunea is morphologically close to Thysananthus and the separation of these two genera has long been controversial. The relationship between Mastigolejeunea and Thysananthus is assessed based on Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood analyses of plastid psbA-trnH, trnG and trnL-F, and nuclear ITS. Mastigolejeunea was resolved as sister to Thysananthus with moderate support, but M. calcarata was nested in Thysananthus subsect. Anguiformes and M. florea was resolved in Spruceanthus. Because diagnostic morphological features separating Mastigolejeunea from Thysananthus are lacking, Mastigolejeunea is treated as a subgenus of Thysananthus. The latter group becomes the second largest genus of Lejeuneaceae subfam. Ptychanthoideae with 30 species, and is one of the largest genera of liverworts that has been monographed worldwide.
Impatiens agastyamalayensis stat. nov. (Balsaminaceae)—A reassessment of Impatiens rufescens var. agastyamalayensis and rediscovery of the plant from the Western Ghats, India
Authors: JOE ALFRED , BHASKAR V. , SABU MAMIYIL
Published: October 2017

Impatiens rufescens var. agastyamalayensis was described based on a herbarium specimen of C.A. Barber collected in 1901 from Agastyamala. It has now been rediscovered from the same locality after more than a century. Present studies on fresh specimens revealed that the characters are strong enough to elevate the variety to species level, I. agastyamalayensis stat. nov. A detailed description and color photographs are given for easy identification of the species. Detailed notes on seed hair and pollen morphology of I. agastyamalayensis are also provided.
An Analytical Study of Poverty, Consumption and Asset Inequalities in South Asia
Authors: Rao M. Prasada , Reddy M. Gopinath
Published: October 2017

This article examines the Indian situation across the States and social category wise including STs, SCs, OBCs, Others and all groups considering some feasible indicators used in terms of asset inequalities such as land ownership, operational holdings, value of assets, average asset value, average amount of debt and incidence of indebtedness, employment (worker population ratio of various social groups), poverty trends and consumption inequalities. Data on different social groups are gathered from NSS and other published sources. It analyses increasing inequalities-which is a point of growing concern in the South Asian region particularly in India. In India, these social groups are adversely affected by social or economic factors that limit their abilities and opportunities available to them.
Comparative Analysis of Agrarian Economy of the Two Punjabs
Authors: Tiwana Balwinder Singh , Singh Sarbjeet , Singh Taranjeet
Published: October 2017

Western and Eastern Punjabs are two adjoining regions having similar cultural and historical background and values but separated by international border. Both are heavily dependent upon agriculture sector and are also known as bread baskets. Indian Punjab has a much smaller area but has much higher productivity than Pakistani Punjab. These regions face similar type of agricultural problems related to water, credit, marketing, infrastructure, etc. This article presents a comparative analysis of agricultural situation in both Punjabs and trade relations. The study concludes that both the Punjabs can gain from the cordial relations and cooperation with each other in various fields such as sharing of development experience and developing bilateral agricultural trade.
Martin Luther and Anti-Semitism: A Discussion
Authors: Mikoski Gordon S
Published: October 2017

This transcription of the Question and Answer period for the public event “Martin Luther and Anti-Semitism” was held at the Morgan Library & Museum in New York City on November 13, 2016. This event was co-presented by the Morgan Library & Museum, the Leo Baeck Institute, the German Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Paul in New York City, and the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany. The discussion session—as well as the two lectures preceding (also published in this issue)—took place as part of a series of events in conjunction with the Morgan Library & Museum’s exhibition “Word and Image: Martin Luther’s Reformation” which ran from October 7, 2016 through January 22, 2017. Professor Mark Silk, Director, Leonard Greenberg Center for the Study of Religion in Public Life and Professor of Religion in Public Life at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, served as moderator for the Q&A session. The respondents were Professor Dean P. Bell, Provost, Vice President, and Professor of History at the Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership in Chicago and Dr. Martin Hauger, Referent für Glaube und Dialog of the High Consistory of the Evangelical Church (EKD) in Germany. The translator for portions of the Q&A session was the Rev. Miriam Gross, pastor of the German Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Paul ( Deutsche Evangelisch-Lutherische St. Pauls Kirche) in Manhattan. Theology Today is grateful to the Morgan Library & Museum for permission to publish the transcription of this discussion session.
As Long As You Are Here, Can I Interest in You Some Science? Increasing Student Engagement by Co-opting a Social Networking Site, Facebook for Science Discussions
Authors: Pai Aditi , Cole Megan , Kovacs Jennifer , Lee Mark , Stovall Kyndra , McGinnis Gene
Published: October 2017

We adopted Facebook as part of a large enrollment science discussion class in a bid to exploit students’ time on this social networking site and tested the effectiveness of this “co-option” strategy of creating education-related activity on Facebook for our students. We used a “Facebook Group” to create an online avenue for discussion on a scientific claim students wished to evaluate by inviting them to post and comment on science articles. We found that with respect to the extent of participation as well as diverse ways of use, the Facebook group surpassed the expectations set by the instructors.