bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Input tariff liberalisation and servitisation in manufacturing: Evidence from China's WTO accession
Authors: Ma Shuzhong , Xu Guangjian , Zhang Hongsheng
Published: August 2019

This paper links the sharp drop in China's manufacturing servitisation (MS) in early 21st century to China's accession to WTO featured by conspicuous input trade liberalisation (ITL). The results show that manufacturing industries exposed to higher degree of ITL suffer more MS declines after China's accession to the WTO. Heterogeneous analysis shows that industries with high import intensity, capital intensity or technology intensity suffer more MS declines following input trade liberalisation. Further analysis shows that input trade liberalisation increases the import of intermediate inputs while significantly reduces the proportion of service imports for manufacturing industries. The results are robust to a series of robustness checks.
Exact and approximate analytical time-domain Green's functions for space-fractional wave equations
Authors: Wiseman Luke M. , Kelly James F. , McGough Robert J.
Published: August 2019

The Chen-Holm and Treeby-Cox wave equations are space-fractional partial differential equations that describe power law attenuation of the form α(ω)≈α0|ω|y. Both of these space-fractional wave equations are causal, but the phase velocities differ, which impacts the shapes of the time-domain Green's functions. Exact and approximate closed-form time-domain Green's functions are derived for these space-fractional wave equations, and the resulting expressions contain symmetric and maximally skewed stable probability distribution functions. Numerical results are evaluated with ultrasound parameters for breast and liver at different times as a function of space and at different distances as a function of time, where the reference calculations are computed with the Pantis method. The results show that the exact and approximate time-domain Green's functions contain both outbound and inbound propagating terms and that the inbound component is negligible a short distance from the origin. Exact and approximate analytical time-domain Green's functions are also evaluated for the Chen-Holm wave equation with power law exponent y = 1. These comparisons demonstrate that single term analytical expressions containing stable probability densities provide excellent approximations to the time-domain Green's functions for the Chen-Holm and Treeby-Cox wave equations.
SBP2 deficiency in adipose tissue macrophages drives insulin resistance in obesity
Authors: Wang Ning , Tan Hor-Yue , Li Sha , Wang Di , Xu Yu , Zhang Cheng , Xia Wen , Che Chi-Ming , Feng Yibin
Published: August 2019

SBP2 loss in macrophages drives adipose tissue inflammation and insulin resistance during obesity.
BRAF inhibitors promote intermediate BRAF(V600E) conformations and binary interactions with activated RAS
Authors: Röck Ruth , Mayrhofer Johanna E. , Torres-Quesada Omar , Enzler Florian , Raffeiner Andrea , Raffeiner Philipp , Feichtner Andreas , Huber Roland G. , Koide Shohei , Taylor Susan S. , Troppmair Jakob , Stefan Eduard
Published: August 2019

Patient mutation–specific BRAF inhibitors alter full-length kinase conformations and promote interactions with GTP-loaded RAS.
Engineered collagen-binding serum albumin as a drug conjugate carrier for cancer therapy
Authors: Sasaki Koichi , Ishihara Jun , Ishihara Ako , Miura Risako , Mansurov Aslan , Fukunaga Kazuto , Hubbell Jeffrey A.
Published: August 2019

Collagen-binding ability improves serum albumin as an anti-cancer drug carrier, resulting in enhanced therapeutic efficacy.
The histone modification reader ZCWPW1 is required for meiosis prophase I in male but not in female mice
Authors: Li Miao , Huang Tao , Li Meng-Jing , Zhang Chuan-Xin , Yu Xiao-Chen , Yin Ying-Ying , Liu Chao , Wang Xin , Feng Hai-Wei , Zhang Tuo , Liu Mo-Fang , Han Chun-Sheng , Lu Gang , Li Wei , Ma Jin-Long , Chen Zi-Jiang , Liu Hong-Bin , Liu Kui
Published: August 2019

The histone modification reader ZCWPW1 guides male meiosis prophase I.
White and wonderful? Microplastics prevail in snow from the Alps to the Arctic
Authors: Bergmann Melanie , Mützel Sophia , Primpke Sebastian , Tekman Mine B. , Trachsel Jürg , Gerdts Gunnar
Published: August 2019

We detect microplastics in European and Arctic snow, highlighting the importance of atmospheric transport as a pathway.
Inhaled GM-CSF in neonatal mice provides durable protection against bacterial pneumonia
Authors: Todd Elizabeth M. , Ramani Rashmi , Szasz Taylor P. , Morley S. Celeste
Published: August 2019

A different route of administering GM-CSF may selectively manipulate tissue-resident macrophages to therapeutic benefit.
Functional protein dynamics on uncharted time scales detected by nanoparticle-assisted NMR spin relaxation
Authors: Xie Mouzhe , Yu Lei , Bruschweiler-Li Lei , Xiang Xinyao , Hansen Alexandar L. , Brüschweiler Rafael
Published: August 2019

Nanoparticle-assisted protein NMR opens window to observation of novel functional dynamics in the nano- to microsecond range.
Better living through your gut microbes
Authors: Kulkarni Rajan P.
Published: August 2019

Correcting gut microbial dysbiosis improves health and life span in a mouse model of accelerated aging by restoring intestinal bile acid and small-molecule metabolite balance.
Immune-orthogonal orthologs: The solution for genome editing?
Authors: Ronzitti Giuseppe
Published: August 2019

Immune-orthogonal Cas9 allows for genome editing in pre-immunized mice.
Efficacy of Delayed Therapy with Fosmanogepix (APX001) in a Murine Model of Candida auris Invasive Candidiasis
Authors: Wiederhold Nathan P. , Najvar Laura K. , Shaw Karen J. , Jaramillo Rosie , Patterson Hoja , Olivo Marcos , Catano Gabriel , Patterson Thomas F.
Published: August 2019

The emerging pathogenic yeast
Candida auris
is associated with antifungal resistance and high mortality. The novel antifungal agent manogepix (APX001A) inhibits glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored protein maturation and has demonstrated activity against numerous pathogenic fungi, including
C. auris
.
Importance of Individual Germination Receptor Subunits in the Cooperative Function between GerA and Ynd
Authors: Aspholm Marina , Borch-Pedersen Kristina , O’Sullivan Kristin , Fjellheim Siri , Aardal Inger-Helene Bjørnson , Granum Per Einar , Lindbäck Toril
Published: August 2019

Spore-forming bacteria are problematic for the food industry, as spores can survive decontamination procedures and subsequently revive in food products, with the risk of food spoilage and foodborne disease. The Ynd and GerA germination receptors (GRs) cooperate in triggering efficient germination of
Bacillus licheniformis
spores when nutrients are present in the surrounding environment. This study shows that the single B subunit of GerA is essential for the cooperative function between Ynd and GerA, while the three B subunits of the Ynd GR are dispensable. The ability of GRs lacking individual subunits to stimulate germination together with other GRs could explain why
ger
operons lacking GR subunit genes are maintained in genomes of spore-forming species.
Whole-Genome Sequence of Listeria newyorkensis, Isolated from River Water in Japan
Authors: Ohshima Chihiro , Takahashi Hajime , Nakamura Ayaka , Kuda Takashi , Kimura Bon
Published: August 2019

Listeria newyorkensis
is a bacterium that was recently classified into the genus
Listeria
. So far, there are only two reports of isolation of
L. newyorkensis
from food. Here, we report the whole-genome sequence of
L. newyorkensis
strain 2-1, isolated from river water in Japan.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Azoarcus
sp. Strain DD4, a Gram-Negative Propanotroph That Degrades 1,4-Dioxane and 1,1-Dichloroethylene
Authors: Deng Daiyong , Li Fei , Ye Lei , Li Mengyan
Published: August 2019

Azoarcus
sp. strain DD4 can cometabolically degrade 1,4-dioxane and 1,1-dichloroethylene (1,1-DCE) when grown with propane and other substrates. The complete genome sequence of strain DD4 reveals a diverse collection of bacterial monooxygenase genes that may contribute to its versatility in degrading commingled groundwater pollutants.
Genomic Characterization of an Echovirus 7 Isolate of Southeast Asian Ancestry Recovered from a Child in Nigeria with Acute Flaccid Paralysis
Authors: Faleye T. O. C. , Adewumi O. M. , Adeniji J. A.
Published: August 2019

Here, we describe the genome of an echovirus 7 (E7) isolate of Southeast Asian ancestry recovered from a child in Nigeria with acute flaccid paralysis (AFP). The genome has 7,295 nucleotides (nt) and an open reading frame (ORF) with 2,195 amino acids.
Genome Sequence of an Aspergillus flavus CA14 Strain That Is Widely Used in Gene Function Studies
Authors: Chang Perng-Kuang , Scharfenstein Leslie L. , Mack Brian , Hua Sui Sheng T.
Published: August 2019

Aspergillus flavus
produces aflatoxins that adversely impact human health and the economy. We report the genome sequence of
A. flavus
CA14 that has been widely used in gene function studies. The information will benefit
A. flavus
functional genomics studies on fungal development, secondary metabolite production, and fungus-host plant interactions.
Application of the pinwheel flap for closure of a large defect of the scalp
Authors: Varnalidis Ioannis , Mantelakis Angelos , Spiers Harry Victor Michael , Papadopoulou Athina N
Published: August 2019

A 74-year-old man had a resultant large oval scalp defect of 12×6 cm (72 cm2) following an excision of a stage IIIA melanoma. We decided to cover the defect with the pinwheel flap, with the aim to provide a good cosmetic result, preservation of hair follicles and minimal donor-site morbidity. This local flap has been traditionally used for much smaller defects. Four L-shaped flaps were designed at equal distances on the vertical and horizontal axes of the defect. The L-shaped flap had a length of 1.5 times the half diameter of the defect (4.5 cm). The incision was made through galea aponeurosis and subsequently undermined at least 3 cm to assist flap advancement. Z-plasties increased the rotation of the flap when it was required. This yielded an excellent reconstructive result at 1-year follow-up, demonstrating the usefulness of the pinwheel flap in large defects on the scalp region.
Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker syndrome misdiagnosed as conversion disorder
Authors: Jiang Aiyang Allen , Longardner Katherine , Dickson Dennis , Sell Rebecca
Published: August 2019

Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker syndrome (GSS) is a rare cause of genetic prion disease. Overlapping neurological, cognitive and psychiatric symptoms make GSS difficult to diagnose based on clinical features alone. We present a 40-year-old man without relevant medical or family history who developed progressive neurocognitive and behavioural symptoms over 3 years. Initial extensive diagnostic workup of his variable motor symptoms was unrevealing and he was diagnosed with conversion disorder. This diagnosis persisted for over 2 years, despite progressive neurocognitive symptoms. He eventually developed dementia and severe neurological impairment. Repeat brain MRI revealed generalised cortical volume loss, establishing the diagnosis of a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative process. He ultimately died from aspiration pneumonia at age 43. Postmortem neuropathological examination showed widespread multicentric prion protein amyloid plaques characteristic of GSS. Ultimately, genetic testing of brain tissue revealed a heterozygous A117V variant in thePNRPgene, confirming the diagnosis.
Giant gluteal lipoma surgical management
Authors: Litchinko Alexis , Cherbanyk Floryn , Menth Markus , Egger Bernhard
Published: August 2019

Surgical treatment of lipomas is typically only considered when they are painful or unsightly. We present the case of a massive hip lipoma; with this extreme case, we show that the global prolongation of life expectancy can lead to other indications of removal.
Alcohol and other drug use among Belgian workers and job-related consequences
Authors: Lambrechts Marie-Claire , Vandersmissen Lieve , Godderis Lode
Published: August 2019

Objectives

This study aimed to obtain prevalence data on use of alcohol and other drugs (AOD) among Belgian workers, and to explore the associations between self-reported AOD use and job-related effects as experienced by workers, and the level of workers’ well-being, respectively.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study (2016), 5367 workers filled out a questionnaire including validated instruments such as the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Consumption (AUDIT-C). Job-related effects were defined as: being late at work, absenteeism, loss of productivity, injuries, conflicts with co-workers and sanctions by employers. Descriptive and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

Based on AUDIT-C, 39.1% of last year drinkers had an indication of problem drinking. The odds of experienced job-related effects was 3.6 (CI 2.86 to 4.60) times larger than the odds among workers without this indication. This ratio decreased to 3.2 (CI 2.52 to 4.11), controlling for language, gender, family context, level of education and sector. Respondents who used illicit drugs more frequently (>once a month) also had an increased risk for experienced job-related effects (OR 5.8; CI 2.87 to 11.84). Having a low level of well-being increased the risk for job-related effects due to psychoactive medication (OR 2.3, CI 1.10 to 4.91).

Discussion

In this study, self-reported AOD use was associated with short-term job-related effects. This suggests that an AOD policy in different sectors is needed with respect for the organisational culture. Its focus should lie on prevention and early detection of AOD problems, and on the mental health of workers. Attention is required for the non-medical use of prescription drugs.
Twenty-year health and economic impact of reducing cigarette use: Minnesota 1998–2017
Authors: Maciosek Michael V , LaFrance Amy B , St Claire Ann , Xu Zack , Brown Morgan , Schillo Barbara A
Published: August 2019

Background

Adult smoking prevalence in Minnesota fell from 21.8% in 1997 to 15.2% in 2016. This reduction improved heart and lung health, prevented cancers, extended life and reduced healthcare costs, but quantifying these benefits is difficult.

Methods

1.3 million individuals were simulated in a tobacco policy model to estimate the gains to Minnesotans from 1998 to 2017 in health, medical spending reductions and productivity gains due to reduced cigarette smoking. A constant prevalence scenario was created to simulate the tobacco harms that would have occurred had smoking prevalence stayed at 1997 levels. Those harms were compared with tobacco harms from a scenario of actual smoking prevalence in Minnesota from 1998 to 2017.

Results

The simulation model predicts that reducing cigarette smoking from 1998 to 2017 has prevented 4560 cancers, 31 691 hospitalisations for cardiovascular disease and diabetes, 12 881 respiratory disease hospitalisations and 4118 smoking-attributable deaths. Minnesotans spent an estimated $2.7 billion less in medical care and gained $2.4 billion in paid and unpaid productivity, inflation adjusted to 2017 US$. In sensitivity analysis, medical care savings ranged from $1.7 to $3.6 billion.

Conclusions

Minnesota’s investment in comprehensive tobacco control measures has driven down smoking rates, saved billions in medical care and productivity costs and prevented tobacco related diseases of its residents. The simulation method employed in this study can be adapted to other geographies and time periods to bring to light the invisible gains of tobacco control.
Optimizing the cost, LEED credits, and time trade-offs using a genetic algorithmic model
Authors: Kumar Shantanu , Mehany Mohammed S. Hashem M.
Published: August 2019

Over the last century, the complexity of construction projects has increased exponentially and its factors (e.g., time, budget, and quality) have generated complicated trade-offs. This research focuses on the trade-off between time, cost, and sustainability represented in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) credits (particularly materials and resources). The research is broken into preliminary and validation studies wherein the preliminary study uses an exhaustive search to find the optimized solution. In the validation case study, dataset size increased exponentially, and it became computationally incompatible to find the optimized solution. Genetic algorithm (GA) is used to find the optimized solution based on user-defined priority factors. Usage of GA is validated using the preliminary study data and then applied to the validation study data. A trade-off is seen between the priority factors and the optimized solution. The optimization model is successful in minimizing the time and cost, concurrently maximizing the points associated with LEED credits for a validation case study.
Dynamical systems: Approximate Lagrangians and Noether symmetries
Authors: Jamal Sameerah
Published: August 2019

We determine the approximate Noether point symmetries of the variational principle characterizing second-order equations of motion of a particle in a (finite-dimensional) Riemannian manifold. In particular, the Lagrangian comprises of kinetic energy and a potential [Formula: see text], perturbed to [Formula: see text]. We establish a convenient system of approximate geometric conditions that suffices for the computation of approximate Noether symmetry vectors and moreover, simplifies the problem of the effect of higher orders of the perturbation. The general results are applied to several practical problems of interest and we find extra Noether symmetries at [Formula: see text].
Surface-reduced Si-doped TiO2 nanotubes for high-efficiency photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Si Dawei , Dong Zhenbiao , Li Ting , Ding Dongyan , Ning Congqin
Published: August 2019

TiO2 is a promising photocatalyst in the reaction of water splitting for hydrogen. Here, we used NaBH4 reduction reaction to introduce [Formula: see text]/VO defect states into Si-doped TiO2 nanotubes and investigated the photoelectrochemical water splitting properties. It was found that the photocatalytic activity was improved through NaBH4 reduction because of the existence of [Formula: see text]/VO. The defect states ([Formula: see text]/VO) could play a role of capture trap and accelerate the separation of photogenerated electrons and holes. The photocurrent density of the Si-doped TiO2 nanotubes reduced for 3[Formula: see text]h was 1.5[Formula: see text]mA/cm2 compared to 0.7[Formula: see text]mA/cm2 of the unreduced nanotubes. The conversion efficiency was 0.7%, which was almost 4 times than that of pure TiO2. On the other hand, reduction for a long time would generate excess defect states and thus cause the decrease of photocurrent density. Excess defect states could act as the recombination centers of photogenerated electrons and holes.
The distance Laplacian and distance signless Laplacian spectrum of the subdivision-vertex join and subdivision-edge join of two regular graphs
Authors: Scaria Deena C. , Indulal G.
Published: August 2019

Let [Formula: see text] be a connected graph with a distance matrix [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] be, respectively, the distance Laplacian matrix and the distance signless Laplacian matrix of graph [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] denotes the diagonal matrix of the vertex transmissions in [Formula: see text]. The eigenvalues of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] constitute the distance Laplacian spectrum and distance signless Laplacian spectrum, respectively. The subdivision graph [Formula: see text] of a graph [Formula: see text] is obtained by inserting a new vertex into every edge of [Formula: see text]. We denote the set of such new vertices by [Formula: see text]. The subdivision-vertex join of two vertex disjoint graphs [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] denoted by [Formula: see text], is the graph obtained from [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] by joining each vertex of [Formula: see text] with every vertex of [Formula: see text]. The subdivision-edge join of two vertex disjoint graphs [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] denoted by [Formula: see text], is the graph obtained from [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] by joining each vertex of [Formula: see text] with every vertex of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we determine the distance Laplacian and distance signless Laplacian spectra of subdivision-vertex join and subdivision-edge join of a connected regular graph with an arbitrary regular graph in terms of their eigenvalues. As an application we exhibit some infinite families of cospectral graphs and find the respective spectra of the Jahangir graph [Formula: see text].
A Review of Three Major Factors Controlling Carbon Nanotubes Synthesis from the Floating Catalyst Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Chen Daniel Rui , Chitranshi Megha , Schulz Mark , Shanov Vesselin
Published: August 2019

After the discovery of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by Sumio Iijima in 1991, several methods have been developed to synthesize them. High-temperature techniques, such as laser ablation and arc discharge, are now replaced by a low-temperature technique like chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Floating catalyst chemical vapor deposition (FCCVD) method is extensively researched due to its ease of fabrication, mass production at low cost and high purity output. The motive of this paper is to discuss the influence of three major factors on the growth of CNTs using the FCCVD method, which can help us better understand the process of FCCVD as well as the potential challenges faced by this method.
Imbalance in Mobility-on-Demand Systems
Authors: Albert Marc , Ruch Claudio , Frazzoli Emilio
Published: August 2019

The control of large-scale mobility-on-demand systems is an emerging topic that has been considered from a system theoretical, transportation scientific, and algorithmic point of view. Existing formulations model mobility-on-demand systems in a queuing theoretical, network flow-based, or continuous, kinematic framework. In this work, we model a mobility-on-demand system as a stochastic differential equation that represents a generalization of previous approaches. Based on the model, we define system imbalance as the difference of the stochastic processes of service request arrival and vehicle arrival. We formally derive the first moment of the system imbalance for an imbalance control strategy that consists of a feedforward control approach (reference trajectory) and an additional feedback component. A distributed feedback control policy is defined that averages the imbalance across the system and therefore aims at a uniform quality of service distribution. Finally, we verify our results in a high-fidelity and large-scale agent-based simulation of a hypothetical mobility-on-demand system.
A Tale of Two States: Normal and Transformed, With and Without Rigidity Sensing
Authors: Sheetz Michael
Published: August 2019

For many years, major differences in morphology, motility, and mechanical characteristics have been observed between transformed cancer and normal cells. In this review, we consider these differences as linked to different states of normal and transformed cells that involve distinct mechanosensing and motility pathways. There is a strong correlation between repeated tissue healing and/or inflammation and the probability of cancer, both of which involve growth in adult tissues. Many factors are likely needed to enable growth, including the loss of rigidity sensing, but recent evidence indicates that microRNAs have important roles in causing the depletion of growth-suppressing proteins. One microRNA, miR-21, is overexpressed in many different tissues during both healing and cancer. Normal cells can become transformed by the depletion of cytoskeletal proteins that results in the loss of mechanosensing, particularly rigidity sensing. Conversely, the transformed state can be reversed by the expression of cytoskeletal proteins—without direct alteration of hormone receptor levels. In this review, we consider the different stereotypical forms of motility and mechanosensory systems. A major difference between normal and transformed cells involves a sensitivity of transformed cells to mechanical perturbations. Thus, understanding the different mechanical characteristics of transformed cells may enable new approaches to treating wound healing and cancer.
Admission plasma uromodulin and the risk of acute kidney injury in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis: a pilot study
Authors: Patidar Kavish R. , Garimella Pranav S. , Macedo Etienne , Slaven James E. , Ghabril Marwan S. , Weber Regina E. , Anderson Melissa , Orman Eric S. , Nephew Lauren D. , Desai Archita P. , Chalasani Naga P. , El-Achkar Tarek M.
Published: August 2019

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis. Uromodulin, a protein uniquely produced by the kidney and released both in the urine and circulation, has been shown to regulate AKI and is linked to tubular reserve. Although low levels of urine uromodulin are associated with AKI after cardiac surgery, it is unclear whether circulating uromodulin can stratify the risk of AKI, particularly in a susceptible population such as hospitalized patients with cirrhosis. Thus, we investigated whether plasma uromodulin measured at the time of admission is associated with subsequent hospital-acquired AKI (defined by a rise in serum creatinine >0.3mg/dL within 48 h or ≥ 1.5 times baseline) in patients with cirrhosis. A total of 98 patients [mean age 54 yr, Model for Endstage Liver Disease Sodium (MELD-Na) score 19, and baseline creatinine of 0.95 mg/dL] were included, of which 13% ( n = 13) developed AKI. Median uromodulin levels were significantly lower in patients who developed AKI compared with patients who did not (9.30 vs. 13.35 ng/mL, P = 0.02). After adjusting for age, sex, diabetes, hypertension, albumin, and MELD-Na score as covariates on multivariable logistic regression, uromodulin was independently associated with AKI [odd ratios of 1.19 (95% confidence interval 1.02, 1.37; P = 0.02)]. Lower uromodulin levels on admission are associated with increased odds of subsequent AKI in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis. Further studies are needed to better understand the role of uromodulin in the pathogenesis and as a predictive biomarker of AKI in this population.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY In this study, we found that admission plasma uromodulin levels are significantly lower in patients who developed subsequent acute kidney injury (AKI) during their hospital stay compared with patients who did not. Additionally, uromodulin is independently associated with AKI development after adjusting for clinically relevant parameters such as age, sex, diabetes, hypertension, severity of cirrhosis, and kidney function. To our knowledge, this is the first study linking plasma uromodulin with AKI development in patients with cirrhosis.
Deletion of the Casp8 gene in mice results in ileocolitis, gut barrier dysfunction, and malassimilation, which can be partially attenuated by inulin or sodium butyrate
Authors: Kaden-Volynets Valentina , Günther Claudia , Zimmermann Julia , Beisner Julia , Becker Christoph , Bischoff Stephan C.
Published: August 2019

Genetically modified mice have been successfully used as models for inflammatory bowel diseases; however, dietary effects were poorly examined. Here, we studied the impact of particular nutrients and supplements on gut functions related to the knockout of the epithelial caspase-8 gene. Caspase-8 knockout (Casp8∆IEC) and control (Casp8fl) mice were fed for 4 wk a control diet (CD) enriched with 10% inulin (CD-Inu) or 5% sodium butyrate (CD-But) while having free access to plain water or water supplemented with 30% fructose (+F). Body weight changes, intestinal inflammation, and selected markers for barrier function and of liver steatosis were assessed. Casp8∆IECmice developed ileocolitis accompanied by changes in intestinal barrier morphology and reduced expression of barrier-related genes such as mucin-2 ( Muc2) and defensins in the ileum and Muc2 in the colon. Casp8∆IECmice fed a CD also showed impaired body weight gain compared with Casp8flmice, which was even more pronounced in mice receiving water supplemented with fructose. Furthermore, we observed a marked liver steatosis and inflammation in some but not all Casp8∆IECmice under a CD, which was on average similar to that observed in control mice under a fructose-rich diet. Hepatic lipid accumulation, as well as markers of ileal barrier function, but not intestinal pathohistology or body weight loss, were attenuated by diets enriched with inulin or butyrate, especially in the absence of fructose supplementation. Our data show that ileocolitis, barrier dysfunction, and malassimilation in Caspase-8 knockout mice can be partially attenuated by oral inulin or butyrate supplementation.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Genetic mouse models for ileocolitis are important to understand inflammatory bowel disease in humans. We examined dietetic factors that might aggravate or attenuate ileocolitis and related pathologies in such a model. Deletion of the caspase-8 gene results not only in ileocolitis but also in gut barrier dysfunction, liver steatosis, and malassimilation, which can be partially attenuated by oral inulin or sodium butyrate. Our data indicate that diet modifications can contribute to disease variability and therapy.
The differential contribution of pacemaker neurons to synaptic transmission in the pyloric network of the Jonah crab, Cancer borealis
Authors: Martinez Diana , Santin Joseph M. , Schulz David , Nadim Farzan
Published: August 2019

Many neurons receive synchronous input from heterogeneous presynaptic neurons with distinct properties. An instructive example is the crustacean stomatogastric pyloric circuit pacemaker group, consisting of the anterior burster (AB) and pyloric dilator (PD) neurons, which are active synchronously and exert a combined synaptic action on most pyloric follower neurons. Previous studies in lobster have indicated that AB is glutamatergic, whereas PD is cholinergic. However, although the stomatogastric system of the crab Cancer borealis has become a preferred system for exploration of cellular and synaptic basis of circuit dynamics, the pacemaker synaptic output has not been carefully analyzed in this species. We examined the synaptic properties of these neurons using a combination of single-cell mRNA analysis, electrophysiology, and pharmacology. The crab PD neuron expresses high levels of choline acetyltransferase and the vesicular acetylcholine transporter mRNAs, hallmarks of cholinergic neurons. In contrast, the AB neuron expresses neither cholinergic marker but expresses high levels of vesicular glutamate transporter mRNA, consistent with a glutamatergic phenotype. Notably, in the combined synapses to follower neurons, 70–75% of the total current was blocked by putative glutamatergic blockers, but short-term synaptic plasticity remained unchanged, and although the total pacemaker current in two follower neuron types was different, this difference did not contribute to the phasing of the follower neurons. These findings provide a guide for similar explorations of heterogeneous synaptic connections in other systems and a baseline in this system for the exploration of the differential influence of neuromodulators.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The pacemaker-driven pyloric circuit of the Jonah crab stomatogastric nervous system is a well-studied model system for exploring circuit dynamics and neuromodulation, yet the understanding of the synaptic properties of the two pacemaker neuron types is based on older analyses in other species. We use single-cell PCR and electrophysiology to explore the neurotransmitters used by the pacemaker neurons and their distinct contribution to the combined synaptic potentials.
Motor cortex disruption delays motor processes but not deliberation about action choices
Authors: Derosiere Gerard , Thura David , Cisek Paul , Duque Julie
Published: August 2019

Decisions about actions typically involve a period of deliberation that ends with the commitment to a choice and the motor processes overtly expressing that choice. Previous studies have shown that neural activity in sensorimotor areas, including the primary motor cortex (M1), correlates with deliberation features during action selection. However, the causal contribution of these areas to the decision process remains unclear. Here, we investigated whether M1 determines choice commitment or whether it simply reflects decision signals coming from upstream structures and instead mainly contributes to the motor processes that follow commitment. To do so, we tested the impact of a disruption of M1 activity, induced by continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS), on the behavior of human subjects in 1) a simple reaction time (SRT) task allowing us to estimate the duration of the motor processes and 2) a modified version of the tokens task (Cisek P, Puskas GA, El-Murr S. J Neurosci 29: 11560–11571, 2009), which allowed us to estimate subjects’ time of commitment as well as accuracy criterion. The efficiency of cTBS was attested by a reduction in motor evoked potential amplitudes following M1 disruption compared with those following a sham stimulation. Furthermore, M1 cTBS lengthened SRTs, indicating that motor processes were perturbed by the intervention. Importantly, all of the behavioral results in the tokens task were similar following M1 disruption and sham stimulation, suggesting that the contribution of M1 to the deliberation process is potentially negligible. Taken together, these findings favor the view that M1 contribution is downstream of the decision process.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Decisions between actions are ubiquitous in the animal realm. Deliberation during action choices entails changes in the activity of the sensorimotor areas controlling those actions, but the causal role of these areas is still often debated. With the use of continuous theta burst stimulation, we show that disrupting the primary motor cortex (M1) delays the motor processes that follow instructed commitment but does not alter volitional deliberation, suggesting that M1 contribution may be downstream of the decision process.
Adipose-Derived Stem Cells from Fat Tissue of Breast Cancer Microenvironment Present Altered Adipogenic Differentiation Capabilities
Authors: Rey Federica , Lesma Elena , Massihnia Daniela , Ciusani Emilio , Nava Sara , Vasco Chiara , Al Haj Ghina , Ghilardi Giorgio , Opocher Enrico , Gorio Alfredo , Carelli Stephana , Di Giulio Anna Maria
Published: August 2019

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells able to differentiate into multiple cell types, including adipocytes, osteoblasts, and chondrocytes. The role of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) in cancers is significantly relevant. They seem to be involved in the promotion of tumour development and progression and relapse processes. For this reason, investigating the effects of breast cancer microenvironment on ADSCs is of high importance in order to understand the relationship between tumour cells and the surrounding stromal cells. With the current study, we aimed to investigate the specific characteristics of human ADSCs isolated from the adipose tissue of breast tumour patients. We compared ADSCs obtained from periumbilical fat (PF) of controls with ADSCs obtained from adipose tissue of breast cancer- (BC-) bearing patients. We analysed the surface antigens and the adipogenic differentiation ability of both ADSC populations. C/EBPδ expression was increased in PF and BC ADSCs induced to differentiate compared to the control while PPARγ and FABP4 expressions were enhanced only in PF ADSCs. Conversely, adiponectin expression was reduced in PF-differentiated ADSCs while it was slightly increased in differentiated BC ADSCs. By means of Oil Red O staining, we further observed an impaired differentiation capability of BC ADSCs. To investigate this aspect more in depth, we evaluated the effect of selective PPARγ activation and nutritional supplementation on the differentiation efficiency of BC ADSCs, noting that it was only with a strong differentiation stimuli that the process took place. Furthermore, we observed no response in BC ADSCs to the PPARγ inhibitor T0070907, showing an impaired activation of this receptor in adipose cells surrounding the breast cancer microenvironment. In conclusion, our study shows an impaired adipogenic differentiation capability in BC ADSCs. This suggests that the tumour microenvironment plays a key role in the modulation of the adipose microenvironment located in the surrounding tissue.
Methylene Blue-Mediated Photodynamic Therapy Induces Macrophage Apoptosis via ROS and Reduces Bone Resorption in Periodontitis
Authors: Jiang Chunlan , Yang Wenyi , Wang Chengyi , Qin Wei , Ming Jiajun , Zhang Manman , Qian Haixin , Jiao Ting
Published: August 2019

Aim. To investigate whether methylene blue-mediated photodynamic therapy (MB-PDT) can affect the “fate” of macrophages in vitro or in periodontitis tissues and to explore the potential mechanism. Methods. For in vitro treatments, THP-1 macrophages were divided into three experimental groups: C/control, no treatment; MB, methylene blue treatment; and MB-PDT, MB and laser irradiation treatment. Then, apoptosis and apoptosis-related proteins were detected in each group. For in vivo treatments, periodontitis was ligature-induced in the first molars of the bilateral maxilla in 12 Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. After six weeks, the ligatures were removed and all the induced molars underwent scaling and root planning (SRP). Then, the rats were divided into three groups according to the following treatments: SRP, saline solution; MB, phenothiazinium dye; and MB-PDT, MB and laser irradiation. Apoptotic macrophages, inflammation levels, and alveolar bone resorption in the periodontal tissues of rats were analyzed in each group. Results. In vitro, flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that 10 μM MB and 40 J/cm2 laser irradiation maximized the apoptosis rate (34.74%) in macrophages. Fluorescence probe and Western blot analyses showed that MB-PDT induced macrophage apoptosis via reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the mitochondrial-dependent apoptotic pathway. Conversely, the addition of exogenous antioxidant glutathione (GSH) and the pan-caspase inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK markedly reduced the apoptotic response in macrophages. In vivo, immunohistochemistry, histology, radiographic, and molecular biology experiments revealed fewer infiltrated macrophages, less bone loss, and lower IL-1β and TNF-α levels in the MB-PDT group than in the SRP and MB groups (P<0.05). Immunohistochemistry analysis also detected apoptotic macrophages in the MB-PDT group. Conclusion. MB-PDT could induce macrophage apoptosis in vitro and in rats with periodontitis. This may be another way for MB-PDT to relieve periodontitis in addition to its antimicrobial effect. Meanwhile, MB-PDT induced apoptosis in THP-1 macrophages via the mitochondrial caspase pathway.
Impact Energy Consumption of High‐Volume Rubber Concrete with Silica Fume
Authors: Li Hai-long , Xu Ying , Chen Pei-yuan , Ge Jin-jin , Wu Fan
Published: August 2019

Adding rubber to concrete aims to solve the environmental pollution problem caused by waste rubber and to improve the energy absorption and impact resistance of concrete. In this paper, recycled rubber particles were used to replace fine aggregates in Portland cement concrete to combine the elasticity of rubber with the compression resistance of concrete. Fine aggregates in the concrete mixes were partially replaced with 0%, 20%, 40%, and 60% rubber by volume, and the cement in the concrete mixes was replaced with 0%, 5%, and 10% of silica fume by mass. The properties of the concrete specimens were examined through compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural loading, and rebound tests. Results show that the compressive strength of concrete and the splitting tensile strength decreased to 11.81 and 1.31 MPa after adding silica fume to enhance the strength 37.8% and 23.7%, respectively, and the dosage of rubber was 60%. With the addition of rubber, the impact energy of rubberized concrete was 2.39 times higher than that of ordinary concrete, while its energy absorption capacity was 9.46% higher. The addition of silica fume increased its impact energy by 3.06 times, but the energy absorption capacity did not change significantly. In summary, the RC60SF10 can be used on non‐load‐bearing structures with high impact resistance requirements. A scanning electron microscope was used to examine and analyze the microstructural properties of rubberized concrete.
Argon Laser Peripheral Iridoplasty and Argon Laser Pupilloplasty: Alternative Management for Medically Unresponsive Acute Primary Angle Closure
Authors: Zhou Wenkai , Zhao Fangkun , Shi Dong , Qadri Majida , Jiang Lingfeng , Ma Liwei
Published: August 2019

Objective. To introduce the combined laser technique, argon laser peripheral iridoplasty (ALPI) and argon laser pupilloplasty (ALPP), in the management of medically unresponsive acute primary angle closure (APAC). Design. Retrospective study. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 23 patients (27 eyes) with APAC, who were applied ALPI and ALPP when traditional treatment failed. The visual acuity and intraocular pressure (IOP) were monitored before surgery and at 1, 2, 12, 24, and 48 h after surgery. Additionally, the angle-opening status was monitored before surgery and 48 h after the treatment by using an ultrasonic biological microscope (UBM), and the presurgical and postsurgical cornea edema statuses were observed by using a slit lamp. We also documented the complications of laser treatment. Results. For the ALPI + ALPP laser-effective group, the presurgical IOP was 52.1 ± 9.3 mmHg and the postsurgical IOP was 37.6 ± 10.9 mmHg (1 h), 28.4 ± 12.4 mmHg (2 h), 19.9 ± 9.0 mmHg (6 h), 16.8 ± 7.3 mmHg (12 h), 15.9 ± 5.9 mmHg (24 h), and 14.9 ± 5.0 mmHg (48 h), with statistically significant differences (p<0.05) in each time point. It was observed in all the patients that the corneal edema alleviated, the angles opened, and visual acuity recovered with varying degrees at 48 h after applying combined laser treatment. For the ALPI + ALPP laser-ineffective group, further interventions were taken. Definite treatment was given in both groups to maintain the long-term IOP control. Conclusions. Although the combination of ALPI and ALPP is a temporizing therapeutic strategy for APAC, it is effective in relieving pupillary block which is unresponsive to miotic agents, opening the closed angle to a certain extent, restoring the transparency of cornea, and reducing IOP to a safe level for further definitive treatment.
A Study of Wideband Energy Reflectance in Patients with Otosclerosis: Data from a Chinese Population
Authors: Wang Suju , Hao Wenyang , Xu Chunxiao , Ni Daofeng , Gao Zhiqiang , Shang Yingying
Published: August 2019

Objective(s). The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of wideband acoustic immittance (WAI) in the diagnosis of otosclerosis by comparing the differences in the energy reflectance (ER) of WAI between patients with otosclerosis and age- and gender-matched normal hearing controls in the Chinese population.Methods. Twenty surgically confirmed otosclerotic ears were included in the otosclerotic group. The ER of WAI at ambient and peak pressures, resonance frequency, and 226-Hz tympanogram were collected prior to surgery using a Titan hearing test platform (Interacoustics A/S, Middelfart, Denmark). All diagnoses of otosclerosis in the tested ear were confirmed by surgery after the measurements. Thirteen normal adults (26 ears) who were age- and gender-matched with the otosclerotic patients were included as the control group.Results. At peak pressure, the ERs of otosclerotic patients were higher than those of the control group for frequencies less than 4,000Hz and were lower for frequencies greater than 4,000Hz. In addition, within the analyzed frequencies, the differences observed at 2,520Hz was statistically significant (p<0.05/16=0.003, Bonferroni corrected). At ambient pressure, the differences observed at 1,260 and 6,350Hz were statistically significant (p<0.05/16=0.003, Bonferroni corrected). Although the differences between the otosclerotic and control groups exhibited similar trends to those in studies implemented in Caucasian populations, the norms in the present study in the control group were different from those in the Caucasian populations, suggesting racial differences in WAI test results. Regarding the middle ear resonance frequency, no significant difference was observed between the two groups (P>0.05).Conclusion. WAI can provide valuable information for the diagnosis of otosclerosis in the Chinese population. Norms and diagnostic criteria corresponding to the patient’s racial group are necessary to improve the efficiency of WAI in the diagnosis of otosclerosis.
Anxiolytic-Like Effects of Bergamot Essential Oil Are Insensitive to Flumazenil in Rats
Authors: Rombolà Laura , Scuteri Damiana , Adornetto Annagrazia , Straface Marilisa , Sakurada Tsukasa , Sakurada Shinobu , Mizoguchi Hirokazu , Corasaniti Maria Tiziana , Bagetta Giacinto , Tonin Paolo , Morrone Luigi Antonio
Published: August 2019

Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental disorders, and benzodiazepines (BDZs), acting on gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA-A) receptor complex, represent the most common antianxiety medications in the world. However, chronic BDZ use elicits several adverse reactions. Reportedly, aromatherapy is safer for the management of anxiety. Bergamot essential oil (BEO) extracted from Citrus bergamia Risso et Poiteau fruit, like other essential oils, is widely used in aromatherapy to relieve symptoms of stress-induced anxiety. Interestingly, preclinical data indicate that BEO induces anxiolytic-like/relaxant effects in animal behavioural tasks not superimposable to those of benzodiazepine diazepam. To better elucidate the involvement of GABAergic transmission, the present study examines the effects of pretreatment with flumazenil (FLZ), a benzodiazepine site antagonist, on BEO effects using open-field task (OFT) in rats. The data yielded show that FLZ does not significantly affect behavioural effects of the phytocomplex. These results demonstrate the lack of overlapping between BEO and BDZ behavioural effects, contributing to the characterization of the neurobiological profile of the essential oil for its rational use in aromatherapy.
Effect of Hemodialysis on Anterior Chamber Angle Measured by Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Shin Yong Un , Kim Ji Hong , Cho Heeyoon , Kim Dae Sung , Yi Joo-Hark , Han Sang-Woong , Seong Mincheol
Published: August 2019

Purpose. To investigate the effect of hemodialysis (HD) on the anterior chamber angle by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (ASOCT) and other ophthalmologic parameters in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Methods. A prospective observational study was performed on 20 patients who underwent HD for ESKD. Anterior chamber angle images were obtained by 16 mm line scan of ASOCT. The angle opening distance (AOD) and the trabecular-iris space area (TISA) were determined using the ImageJ program. Additional 12 mm horizontal and 9 mm vertical wide-field scans centered on the posterior pole were performed for the measurement of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (mGCIPL) thickness. Changes in intraocular pressure (IOP), AOD, TISA, pRNFL thickness, and mGCIPL thickness before and after HD were statistically analyzed. Results. The IOP decreased significantly from 17.5 ± 3.4 before HD to 16.2 ± 2.3 after HD (P=0.017). There was a statistically significant decrease in AOD 750 and TISA 750 (P=0.005 and P=0.007, respectively). AOD 500 and TISA 500 also decreased, which was almost statistically significant (P=0.061 and P=0.081, respectively). Mean pRNFL thickness and mGCIPL thickness did not show significant change after HD. Conclusion. We observed a significant decrease in IOP and anterior chamber angle measurements after HD. Our study suggests that HD can influence the anterior segment structure of eyes.