bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In situ Biofilm Quantification in Bioelectrochemical Systems by using Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Molenaar Sam D. , Sleutels Tom , Pereira Joao , Iorio Matteo , Borsje Casper , Zamudio Julian A. , Fabregat‐Santiago Francisco , Buisman Cees J. N. , ter Heijne Annemiek
Published: April 2018

Detailed studies of microbial growth in bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) are required for their suitable design and operation. Here, we report the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) as a tool for in situ and noninvasive quantification of biofilm growth on electrodes (bioanodes). An experimental platform is designed and described in which transparent electrodes are used to allow real‐time, 3D biofilm imaging. The accuracy and precision of the developed method is assessed by relating the OCT results to well‐established standards for biofilm quantification (chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total N content) and show high correspondence to these standards. Biofilm thickness observed by OCT ranged between 3 and 90 μm for experimental durations ranging from 1 to 24 days. This translated to growth yields between 38 and 42 mg
 g
−1 at an anode potential of −0.35 V versus Ag/AgCl. Time‐lapse observations of an experimental run performed in duplicate show high reproducibility in obtained microbial growth yield by the developed method. As such, we identify OCT as a powerful tool for conducting in‐depth characterizations of microbial growth dynamics in BESs. Additionally, the presented platform allows concomitant application of this method with various optical and electrochemical techniques.
Core psychopathology in anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa: A network analysis
Authors: Forrest Lauren N. , Jones Payton J. , Ortiz Shelby N. , Smith April R.
Published: April 2018

Objective

The cognitive–behavioral theory of eating disorders (EDs) proposes that shape and weight overvaluation are the core ED psychopathology. Core symptoms can be statistically identified using network analysis. Existing ED network studies support that shape and weight overvaluation are the core ED psychopathology, yet no studies have estimated AN core psychopathology and concerns exist about the replicability of network analysis findings. The current study estimated ED symptom networks among people with anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) and among a combined group of people with AN and BN.

Method

Participants were girls and women with AN (n =604) and BN (n =477) seeking residential ED treatment. ED symptoms were assessed with the Eating Disorder Examination‐Questionnaire (EDE‐Q); 27 of the EDE‐Q items were included as nodes in symptom networks. Core symptoms were determined by expected influence and strength values.

Results

In all networks, desiring weight loss, restraint, shape and weight preoccupation, and shape overvaluation emerged as the most important symptoms. In addition, in the AN and combined networks, fearing weight gain emerged as an important symptom. In the BN network, weight overvaluation emerged as another important symptom.

Discussion

Findings support the cognitive–behavioral premise that shape and weight overvaluation are at the core of AN psychopathology. Our BN and combined network findings provide a high degree of replication of previous findings. Clinically, findings highlight the importance of considering shape and weight overvaluation as a severity specifier and primary treatment target for people with EDs.
Randomized controlled psychotherapy trials in eating disorders: Improving their conduct, interpretation and usefulness
Authors: Wade Tracey D. , Johnson Catherine , Byrne Susan M.
Published: April 2018

Background

While randomized controlled trials (RCTs) inform the efficacy and effectiveness of treatments, we need to understand that even RCTs can be associated with sub‐optimal execution. This is of special pertinence to eating disorders given the majority of treatment studies involving cognitive behaviour therapy are of poor quality with respect to managing risk of bias adequately.

Methods

The current paper outlines the components of a good RCT for psychotherapy, and examines ways to improve the conduct, interpretation, and usefulness of RCTs.

Results

This includes managing reporting bias, recognizing the limits of randomization, applicability, and ethical considerations.

Conclusions

We highlight a number of strategies for future research, including issues related to utilizing a variety of designs to examine treatment outcomes, integrity, openness and reproducibility.
Generation of Dynamic Combinatorial Libraries Using Hydrazone‐Functionalized Surface Mimetics
Authors: Hewitt Sarah H. , Wilson Andrew J.
Published: April 2018

Dynamic combinatorial chemistry (DCC) represents an approach, whereby traditional supramolecular scaffolds used for protein surface recognition might be exploited to achieve selective high affinity target recognition. Synthesis, in situ screening and amplification under selection pressure allows the generation of ligands, which bear different moieties capable of making multivalent non‐covalent interactions with target proteins. Generic tetracarboxyphenyl porphyrin scaffolds bearing four hydrazide moieties have been used to form dynamic combinatorial libraries (DCLs) using aniline‐catalyzed reversible hydrazone exchange reactions, in 10 % DMSO, 5 mm NH4OAc, at pH 6.75. High resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) was used to monitor library composition and establish conditions under which equilibria were established.
An Enantioselective Iodolactonization/Cross‐Coupling Protocol for the Synthesis of Highly Substituted Enol Lactones
Authors: Fricke Christoph , Wilking Michael , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Hennecke Ulrich
Published: April 2018

γ‐Alkynoic acids readily undergo iodolactonization to give iodoenol lactones. Using commercially available (DHQD)2PHAL this transformation can be rendered asymmetric. In desymmetrization reactions of dialkynoic acids, good to very good enantioselectivities can be observed. Alternatively, kinetic resolution of already chiral, racemic γ‐alkynoic acids can be carried out. The products of these iodolactonizations, iodoenol lactones, are suitable substrates for Palladium catalyzed cross‐couplings. Negishi‐ as well as Sonogashira couplings can be carried out and allow the efficient synthesis of highly substituted enol lactones.
Amperometric Flow Injection Analysis of Glucose and Galactose Based on Engineered Pyranose 2‐Oxidases and Osmium Polymers for Biosensor Applications
Authors: Kurbanoglu Sevinc , Zafar Muhammed Nadeem , Tasca Federico , Aslam Iqra , Spadiut Oliver , Leech Dónal , Haltrich Dietmar , Gorton Lo
Published: April 2018

In the present study, wild type and three mutants of pyranose 2‐oxidase (PyOx‐WT, PyOx‐MT1, PyOx‐MT2, PyOx‐MT3), which showed improved properties for D‐galactose oxidation, were investigated for their oxidising ability when immobilised on graphite electrodes. Four different flexible Os polymers with formal potentials ranging between −0.140 and 0.270 V vs. Ag|AgCl0.1 M KCl were applied together with the various forms of PyOx to wire graphite electrodes using polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether as crosslinking reagent. The pH profiles for the electrodes modified with wild type and all PyOx mutants in combination with the Os polymers were investigated with both glucose and galactose, respectively, since the PyOx variants showed an improved catalytic activity for galactose. All modified electrodes showed highest response in the pH range between 8.5–10 and KM, Imax values for both glucose and galactose were determined. To prove the catalytic activity, the biosensors were also characterized with cyclic voltammetry. A protein amount 0.26 U was found optimum for PyOx‐WT, 0.36 U for PyOx‐MT1, 0.41 U for PyOx‐MT2 and 0.28 U for PyOx‐MT3 and the analytical characterization of the enzyme electrodes was performed for glucose and galactose under optimized conditions.
Development of Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Based Malaria Aptasensor Using HRP‐II as Target Biomarker
Authors: Chakma Babina , Jain Priyamvada , Singh Naveen Kumar , Goswami Pranab
Published: April 2018

Current demand for a stable, low cost and sensitive malaria sensor has prompted to explore novel recognition systems that can substitute widely used protein based labile biorecognition elements to be used in point of care diagnostic devices. Here, we report a novel ssDNA aptamer of 90 mer sequence developed by SELEX process against HRP‐II, a specific biomarker for Plasmodium falciparum strains. High stability of the secondary structure of the isolated aptamer was discerned from its free energy of folding of −20.40 kcal mole−1. The binding constant (Kd) of the aptamer with HRP‐II analysed by isothermal titration calorimetry was ∼1.32 μM. Circular dichroism studies indicated B form of the aptamer DNA. The aptamer was chemically immobilized on a gold electrode surface through a self‐assembled monolayer of dithio‐bis(succinimidyl) propionate to produce the aptasensor. The step wise modification of the layers over the gold electrode during fabrication of the aptasensor was confirmed by cyclic voltammetry. The aptasensor was then challenged with different concentration of HRP‐II and analysed the interaction signals through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The impedance signal behaved reciprocally with the increasing concentrations of the target in the sample from which a dynamic range of 1 pM–500 pM (R2=0.99) and LOD of ∼3.15 pM were discerned. The applicability of the developed aptasensor to detect HRP‐II in mimicked real sample was also validated.
Phosphotungstic Acid Regulated Chemical Bath Deposition of Sb2S3 for High‐Efficiency Planar Heterojunction Solar Cell
Authors: Zhang Yan , Li Shi'ang , Tang Rongfeng , Wang Xiaomin , Chen Chao , Lian Weitao , Zhu Changfei , Chen Tao
Published: April 2018

Chemical bath deposition is a convenient method for preparing Sb2S3 film which is considered as a promising photovoltaic material. However, impurity phases such as Sb2O3, SbOCl, Sb2(SO4)3 and Sb(OH)3 are inevitably generated in this solution process. Herein, we demonstrate that phosphotungstic acid in the precursor solution is able to suppress the formation of oxide and oxyhalide by‐products, leading to considerably optimized composition and crystallinity for solar cell applications. With this method, a remarkable improvement of power conversion efficiency from 1.91 % to 4.61 % is obtained, which is also the highest efficiency in planar heterojunction solar cells by solution processed Sb2S3 absorber layer.
Using bivariate latent basis growth curve analysis to better understand treatment outcome in youth with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Byrne Catherine E. , Wonderlich Joseph A. , Curby Timothy , Fischer Sarah , Lock James , Le Grange Daniel
Published: April 2018

Objective

This study explored the relation between eating‐related obsessionality and weight restoration utilizing bivariate latent basis growth curve modelling. Eating‐related obsessionality is a moderator of treatment outcome for adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN). This study examined the degree to which the rate of change in eating‐related obsessionality was associated with the rate of change in weight over time in family‐based treatment (FBT) and individual therapy for AN.

Method

Data were drawn from a 2‐site randomized controlled trial that compared FBT and adolescent focused therapy for AN. Bivariate latent basis growth curves were used to examine the differences of the relations between trajectories of body weight and symptoms associated with eating and weight obsessionality.

Results

In the FBT group, the slope of eating‐related obsessionality scores and the slope of weight were significantly (negatively) correlated. This finding indicates that a decrease in overall eating‐relating obsessionality is significantly associated with an increase in weight for individuals who received FBT. However, there was no relation between change in obsessionality scores and change in weight in the adolescent focused therapy group.

Discussion

Results suggest that FBT has a specific impact on both weight gain and obsessive compulsive behaviour that is distinct from individual therapy.
Influence of drying temperature and storage period on the quality of cherry and plum tomato powder
Authors: Obadina Adewale , Ibrahim Jumoke , Adekoya Ifeoluwa
Published: April 2018

The quality changes of cherry and plum tomatoes dried at different temperatures (60, 65 and 70°C) milled into powder and stored for 8 weeks were assessed in this study. The ascorbic acid and lycopene content of the tomato powders were significantly different with values that ranged from 5.10 to 7.70 mg/100 g and 211.53 to 246.02 mg/kg, respectively. Color parameters redness (a*) and chroma decreased, while lightness (L*), yellowness (b*), and hue increased as the drying temperature increased. In addition, increase was observed in the total fungal load and lightness of the two tomato varieties at all temperatures, while the titratable acidity, pH, ascorbic acid, lycopene, redness, and yellowness increased as the storage period increased to 8 weeks. The 60°C dried plum tomato powder had the best result in terms of quality retention at the end of the storage period. Some quality parameters increased and decreased with drying and storage of plum and cherry tomato powders.
Is stock return predictability of option‐implied skewness affected by the market state?
Authors: Kim Tong Suk , Park Heewoo
Published: April 2018

We use (Bakshi, Kapadia, and Madan, 2003, Review of Financial Studies 16: 101–143) methodology to measure the option‐implied ex ante skewness of the risk‐neutral returns distribution for underlying stocks. We find a negative relation between option‐implied skewness and subsequent stock returns, even after controlling for a myriad of firm‐characteristic variables. Specifically, the cross‐sectional stock return predictability of option‐implied skewness is only significant during periods of low market return and high investor sentiment. Furthermore, we find that the predictive power of skewness can be attributed to market state rather than sentiment. Our findings suggest that investors should consider high option‐implied skewness stocks as they would lottery‐like stocks.
Genome‐wide interaction with the insulin secretion locus MTNR1B reveals CMIP as a novel type 2 diabetes susceptibility gene in African Americans
Authors: Keaton Jacob M. , Gao Chuan , Guan Meijian , Hellwege Jacklyn N. , Palmer Nicholette D. , Pankow James S. , Fornage Myriam , Wilson James G. , Correa Adolfo , Rasmussen‐Torvik Laura J. , Rotter Jerome I. , Chen Yii‐Der I. , Taylor Kent D. , Rich Stephen S. , Wagenknecht Lynne E. , Freedman Barry I. , Ng Maggie C. Y. , Bowden Donald W.
Published: April 2018

Although type 2 diabetes (T2D) results from metabolic defects in insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity, most of the genetic risk loci identified to date relates to insulin secretion. We reported that T2D loci influencing insulin sensitivity may be identified through interactions with insulin secretion loci, thereby leading to T2D. Here, we hypothesize that joint testing of variant main effects and interaction effects with an insulin secretion locus increases power to identify genetic interactions leading to T2D. We tested this hypothesis with an intronic MTNR1B SNP, rs10830963, which is associated with acute insulin response to glucose, a dynamic measure of insulin secretion. rs10830963 was tested for interaction and joint (main + interaction) effects with genome‐wide data in African Americans (2,452 cases and 3,772 controls) from five cohorts. Genome‐wide genotype data (Affymetrix Human Genome 6.0 array) was imputed to a 1000 Genomes Project reference panel. T2D risk was modeled using logistic regression with rs10830963 dosage, age, sex, and principal component as predictors. Joint effects were captured using the Kraft two degrees of freedom test. Genome‐wide significant (P < 5 × 10−8) interaction with MTNR1B and joint effects were detected for CMIP intronic SNP rs17197883 (Pinteraction = 1.43 × 10−8; Pjoint = 4.70 × 10−8). CMIP variants have been nominally associated with T2D, fasting glucose, and adiponectin in individuals of East Asian ancestry, with high‐density lipoprotein, and with waist‐to‐hip ratio adjusted for body mass index in Europeans. These data support the hypothesis that additional genetic factors contributing to T2D risk, including insulin sensitivity loci, can be identified through interactions with insulin secretion loci.
Lifestyle factors and the course of depression in older adults: A NESDO study
Authors: Bruin Myrthe C. , Comijs Hannie C. , Kok Rob M. , Van der Mast Roos C. , Van den Berg Julia F.
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To investigate whether lifestyle indicators including physical exercise, sleep duration, alcohol use, body mass index, smoking status, and a composite lifestyle index are associated with the depression course in older adults.

Methods

Data of 283 older adults were used from the Netherlands Study of Depression in Older Persons. Depressive disorders at baseline were assessed with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview. The depression course at 2‐year follow‐up was assessed with the Inventory of Depressive Symptoms (IDS, score 0–84) every 6 months; physical exercise with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire; alcohol use with the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test; body mass index by anthropometry; and sleep duration and smoking status by interview questions. A composite lifestyle index was calculated by summing scores assigned to each lifestyle factor, with a higher score indicating healthier behavior.

Results

Of all participants, 61.1% had chronic depression (all IDS scores 14–84), 20.1% had intermittent depression (1 IDS score ≤ 14), and 18.7% remitted depression (last 2 IDS scores ≤14). None of the investigated lifestyle indicators, nor the composite lifestyle index was associated with depression course, after adjustment for covariates.

Conclusions

Lifestyle factors do not predict the course of depression at 2‐year follow‐up in older adults.
3‐Hydroxyflavone enhances the toxicity of ZnO nanoparticles in vitro
Authors: Luo Yunfeng , Wu Chaohua , Liu Liangliang , Gong Yu , Peng Shengming , Xie Yixi , Cao Yi
Published: April 2018

It is recently shown that flavonoids might reduce the toxicity of nanoparticles (NPs) due to their antioxidative properties. In this study, the influence of 3‐hydroxyflavone (H3) on the toxicity of ZnO NPs was investigated. H3 increased hydrodynamic size, polydispersity index and absolute value of the zeta potential of ZnO NPs, which indicated that H3 could influence the colloidal aspects of NPs. Surprisingly, H3 markedly decreased the initial concentration of ZnO NPs required to induce cytotoxicity to Caco‐2, HepG2, THP‐1 and human umbilical vein endothelial cells, which suggested that H3 could promote the toxicity of ZnO NPs to both cancerous and normal cells. For comparison, 6‐hydroxyflavone did not show this effect. H3 remarkably increased cellular Zn elements and intracellular Zn ions in HepG2 cells following ZnO NP exposure, and co‐exposure to H3 and NPs induced a relatively higher intracellular reactive oxygen species. Exposure to ZnO NPs at 3 hours induced the expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress markers DDIT3 and XBP‐1 s, which was suppressed by H3. The expression of apoptotic genes BAX and CASP3 was significantly induced by ZnO NP exposure after 3 and 5 hours, respectively, and H3 further significantly promoted CASP3 expression at 5 hours. In combination, the results from this study suggested that H3 affected colloidal stability of ZnO NPs, promoted the interactions between NPs and cells, and altered the NP‐induced endoplasmic reticulum stress–apoptosis signaling pathway, which finally enhanced the cytotoxicity of ZnO NPs.
MicroRNA‐9 suppresses cancer proliferation and cell cycle progression in acute lymphoblastic leukemia with inverse association of neuropilin‐1
Authors: Zang Yuzhu , Yu Runhong , Bai Yanliang , Chen Xiangli
Published: April 2018

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is one of the most common and most malign childhood cancers. In this work, we investigated the expression and function of human mature microRNA‐9 (miR‐9) in ALL. In ALL in vitro cell lines and in situ clinical specimens, gene expression of miR‐9 was tested by qRT‐PCR. MiR‐9 was overexpressed in CEM/C1 and Molt‐3 cells to investigate its possible anti‐cancer effects on ALL in vitro proliferation, cell‐cycle progression, and in vivo explant growth. The possible downstream target of miR‐9, neuropilin‐1 (NRP1), was examined by dual‐luciferase activity assay, qRT‐PCR, and Western blot. NRP1was upregulated in miR‐9‐overexpressed CEM/C1 and Molt‐3 cells to investigate the functional involvement of NRP1 in miR‐9‐mediated regulation on ALL in vitro proliferation and cell‐cycle progression. MiR‐9 was downregulated in ALL cell lines and leukemic T‐cells of ALL patients. Lentivirus‐mediated miR‐9 overexpression inhibited ALL in vitro proliferation, cell‐cycle progression, and in vivo explant growth. NRP1 was confirmed be the downstream target of miR‐9, and inversely modulated by miR‐9 in ALL. NRP1 upregulation reversed the anti‐cancer regulations of miR‐9 on ALL in vitro proliferation and cell‐cycle progression. MiR‐9 is downregulated in ALL. Overexpressing miR‐9 may inhibit ALL development, possible through its downstream target of NRP1.
Retracted: The anti‐inflammatory effect of microRNA‐383‐3p interacting with IL1R2 against homocysteine‐induced endothelial injury in rat coronary arteries
Authors: Lian Zheng , Lv Feng‐Feng , Yu Jing , Wang Jia‐Wang
Published: April 2018

MicroRNAs (miRs) are widely reported to be novel biomarkers involved in the process of coronary atherosclerosis (CAS). Hence, this study aims to explore the function of miR‐383‐3p targeting IL1R2 on inflammatory injury of coronary artery endothelial cells (CAECs) in CAS. The underlying regulatory mechanisms of miR‐383‐3p were analyzed in concert with the treatment of miR‐383‐3p mimics, miR‐383‐3p inhibitors, and the combination of miR‐383‐3p inhibitors and siRNA against IL1R2 in homocysteine (HCY)‐induced CAECs. MTT, Hoechst 33258 staining, and tube formation assay were employed in order to measure cell viability, apoptosis, and tube formation, respectively. The levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10, and IL‐18 were determined by ELISA. IL1R2 was verified as the target gene of miR‐383‐3p by dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay. MiR‐383‐3p was down‐regulated in myocardial tissues of AS rats while IL1R2 was the reciprocal. The up‐regulation of miR‐383‐3p decreased the levels of IL1R2, caspase‐1, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐18 expressions, as well as cell apoptosis rate in the HCY‐induced CAECs, while IL‐10 expression, cell viability, and tube formation ability were increased. These results were contraindicated in the HCY‐induced CAECs treated by miR‐383‐3p inhibitors. In conclusion, miR‐383‐3p mediating IL1R2 prevents HCY‐induced apoptosis and inflammation injury in CAECs through the inhibition of the activation of inflammasome signaling pathway. These findings highly indicate that miR‐383‐3p may be beneficial in the prevention of CAS and other cardiovascular diseases.
Baicalein inhibits breast cancer growth via activating a novel isoform of the long noncoding RNA PAX8‐AS1‐N
Authors: Yu Xiaolan , Cao Yong , Tang Li , Yang Yingcheng , Chen Feng , Xia Jiyi
Published: April 2018

Baicalein, a natural flavonoid, has fascinating anti‐cancer properties in breast cancer. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a class of transcripts with no protein‐coding potential, also exhibit critical roles in breast cancer. However, the molecular mechanisms mediating the anti‐cancer properties of baicalein and whether lncRNAs are involved in the anti‐cancer effects are still unclear. In this study, we identified a novel isoform of lncRNA PAX8‐AS1 (PAX8‐AS1‐N), which is activated by baicalein in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Functional assays showed that PAX8‐AS1‐N reduced cell viability, inhibited cell‐cycle progression, and induced apoptosis of breast cancer cells in vitro. Depletion of PAX8‐AS1‐N promoted breast xenograft tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, depletion of PAX8‐AS1‐N attenuated the suppressive roles of baicalein on cell viability, the apoptosis induced by baicalein, and also the suppressive roles of baicalein on tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, PAX8‐AS1‐N bound to miR‐17‐5p, and up‐regulated miR‐17‐5p targets, such as PTEN, CDKN1A, and ZBTB4. In addition, PAX8‐AS1‐N was down‐regulated in breast cancer and reduced expression of PAX8‐AS1‐N indicated poor survival of breast cancer patients. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that PAX8‐AS1‐N activation mediated the anti‐cancer effects of baicalein via regulating miR‐17‐5p, and suggested that baicalein and enhancing PAX8‐AS1‐N would be potential therapeutic strategies against breast cancer.
bZIP17 regulates the expression of genes related to seed storage and germination, reducing seed susceptibility to osmotic stress
Authors: Cifuentes‐Esquivel Nicolás , Celiz‐Balboa Jonathan , Henriquez‐Valencia Carlos , Mitina Irina , Arraño‐Salinas Paulina , Moreno Adrián A. , Meneses Claudio , Blanco‐Herrera Francisca , Orellana Ariel
Published: April 2018

Low temperatures, salinity, and drought cause significant crop losses. These conditions involve osmotic stress, triggering transcriptional remodeling, and consequently, the restitution of cellular homeostasis and growth recovery. Protein transcription factors regulate target genes, thereby mediating plant responses to stress. bZIP17 is a transcription factor involved in cellular responses to salinity and the unfolded protein response. Because salinity can also produce osmotic stress, the role of bZIP17 in response to osmotic stress was assessed. Mannitol treatments induced the transcript accumulation and protein processing of bZIP17. Transcriptomic analyses showed that several genes associated with seed storage and germination showed lower expression in bzip17 mutants than in wild‐type plants. Interestingly, bZIP17 transcript was more abundant in seeds, and germination analyses revealed that wild‐type plants germinated later than bzip17 mutants in the presence of mannitol, but no effects were observed when the seeds were exposed to ABA. Finally, the transcript levels of bZIP17 target genes that control seed storage and germination were assessed in seeds exposed to mannitol treatments, which showed lower expression levels in bzip17 mutants compared to the wild‐type seeds. These results suggest that bZIP17 plays a role in osmotic stress, acting as a negative regulator of germination through the regulation of genes involved in seed storage and germination.
H19 promotes non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) development through STAT3 signaling via sponging miR‐17
Authors: Huang Zhiwen , Lei Wei , Hu Hai‐Bo , Zhang Hongyan , Zhu Yehan
Published: April 2018

LncRNAs can exhibit crucial roles in the development of multiple cancers, including non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Currently, we investigated the role of lncRNA H19 in NSCLC. In our study, it was found that H19 was upregulated in A549 and H1299 cells compared to normal lung epithelial BEAS‐2B cells. Meanwhile, we observed that miR‐17 was downregulated in NSCLC cell lines. Inhibited H19 can suppress the growth, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells and bioinformatics search was performed to predict the correlation between H19 and miR‐17. Overexpression of miR‐17 was able to inhibit the progression of NSCLC cells while reversely miR‐17 inhibitors reversed this process. In addition, signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT3), as an mRNA target of miR‐17, was presented in our research. Moreover, we discovered that H19 demonstrated its biological functions via regulating miR‐17 and STAT3 in vitro. Silencing H19 greatly increased STAT3 expression by sponging miR‐19 in vitro. It was hypothesized that H19 may serve as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to modulate STAT3 by attaching miR‐17 in lung cancer. In summary, our findings indicated that H19/miR‐17/STAT3 axis participated in NSCLC development. H19 could be regarded as a significant prognostic biomarker in NSCLC progression.
ROS‐Autophagy pathway mediates monocytes‐human umbilical vein endothelial cells adhesion induced by apelin‐13
Authors: Liu Meiqing , Li Hening , Zhou Qun , Zhao Hong , Lv Deguan , Cao Jiangang , Jiang Jinyong , Tang Mingzhu , Wu Di , Liu Jiaqi , Wu Lele , Hu Haoliang , He Lu , Huang Shifang , Chen Zhe , Li Lanfang , Chen Linxi
Published: April 2018

Apelin is the endogenous ligand of APJ receptor. Both monocytes (MCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) express apelin and APJ, which play important roles in the physiological processes of atherosclerosis. Our previous research indicated that apelin‐13 promoted MCs‐HUVECs adhesion. Here, we further explore the mechanism responsible for MCs‐HUVECs adhesion induced by apelin‐13. Apelin‐13 promoted reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and NOX4 expression in HUVECs. Apelin‐13 inducedautophagy, increased proteins beclin1 and LC3‐II/I expression and induced autophagy flux in HUVECs, which was blocked by NAC, catalase and DPI. Autophagy flux induced by apelin‐13 was inhibited by NAC and catalase but not hydroxychloroquine (HCQ). NAC, catalase, and DPI prevented apelin‐13 induced ICAM‐1 expression in HUVECs. Rapamycin enhanced MCs–HUVECs adhesion that was reversed by NAC, catalase, and DPI. Down‐regulation of beclin1 and LC3 by siRNA blocked MCs‐HUVECs adhesion. Apelin‐13 induced atherosclerotic plaque and increased NOX4, LC3‐II/I expression in ApoE−/−(HFD) mouse model. Our results demonstrated that apelin‐13 induced MCs–HUVECs adhesion via a ROS‐autophagy pathway.
The versatile role of curcumin in cancer prevention and treatment: A focus on PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Hamzehzadeh Leila , Atkin Stephen L. , Majeed Muhammed , Butler Alexandra E. , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: April 2018

Despite significant advances in treatment modalities, millions of cancer‐related deaths continue to occur annually, often as a consequence of developing resistance against the range of available chemotherapeutic drugs. Furthermore, available anti‐cancer chemotherapeutic agents show limited efficacy, often have severe side effects, and are expensive. Thus, the discovery of pharmacological agents that do not have these disadvantages is necessary. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from turmeric (Curcumin longa L.), is one such agent that has been widely studied for its anti‐inflammatory and/or anti‐cancer effects. Curcumin exerts its anti‐cancer effect by suppressing the initiation, progression, and metastasis of a variety of cancers and appears to inhibit carcinogenesis by affecting two main processes: angiogenesis and tumor growth. These anti‐cancer effects are largely mediated via negative regulation of various transcription factors, growth factors, inflammatory cytokines, protein kinases, and other oncogenic molecules. The PI3K/AKT pathway is commonly activated in cancer initiation and progression. Considered to be the key signaling pathway, the phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) pathway therefore represents a key target for cancer therapeutics. In the current review, we focus upon curcumin's targeting of PI3K/AKT in different malignancies to effect inhibition of cancer development and progression.
Yes‐associated protein mediates human embryonic stem cell‐derived cardiomyocyte proliferation: Involvement of epidermal growth factor receptor signaling
Authors: Park Somi , Choe Museog , Yeo Hancheol , Han Hojae , Kim Joongsun , Chang Woocheol , Yun Seungpil , Lee Hojin , Lee Minyoung
Published: April 2018

Unlike mature cardiomyocytes, human pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes exhibit higher proliferative capacity; however, the underlying mechanisms involved are yet to be elucidated. Here, we revealed that the Yes‐associated protein (YAP) plays a critical role in regulating cell proliferation in association with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in human embryonic stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (hESC‐CMs). Our results show that low‐density culture significantly promotes the proliferation of hESC‐CMs via YAP. Interestingly, the low‐density culture‐induced YAP expression further induced EGFR expression, without any alterations in the activity of EGFR and its two major downstream kinases, ERK, and AKT. However, treatment of a low‐density‐culture of hESC‐CMs with epidermal growth factor (EGF) increased proliferation via phosphorylation of EGFR, ERK, and AKT, and the EGF‐induced phosphorylation of EGFR, ERK, and AKT was significantly higher in low‐density hESC‐CMs than in high‐density hESC‐CMs. Furthermore, the EGF‐induced activation of EGFR, ERK, and AKT increased YAP expression and subsequently proliferation. In conclusion, YAP mediates both low‐density culture‐induced and EGF‐induced proliferation of hESC‐CMs in low‐density culture conditions.
On the structure of (banner, odd hole)‐free graphs
Authors: Hoàng Chính T.
Published: April 2018

A hole is a chordless cycle with at least four vertices. A hole is odd if it has an odd number of vertices. A banner is a graph that consists of a hole on four vertices and a single vertex with precisely one neighbor on the hole. We prove that a (banner, odd hole)‐free graph is perfect, or does not contain a stable set on three vertices, or contains a homogeneous set. Using this structure result, we design a polynomial‐time algorithm for recognizing (banner, odd hole)‐free graphs. We also design polynomial‐time algorithms to find, for such a graph, a minimum coloring, and largest stable set. A graph G is perfectly divisible if every induced subgraph H of G contains a set X of vertices such that X meets all largest cliques of H, and X induces a perfect graph. The chromatic number of a perfectly divisible graph G is bounded by ω2 where ω denotes the number of vertices in a largest clique of G. We prove that (banner, odd hole)‐free graphs are perfectly divisible.
Microvascular anatomy of the brain of the adult pipid frog, Xenopus laevis (Daudin): A scanning electron microscopic study of vascular corrosion casts
Authors: Lametschwandtner Alois , Minnich Bernd
Published: April 2018

To demonstrate the 3D microvascular anatomy of the brain of the model organism Xenopus laevis Daudin scanning electron microscopy of vascular corrosion casts was correlated with light microscopy of stained 7 µm thick serial tissues sections. Results showed that supplying arteries descended from the leptomeningeal surface without remarkable branchings straight to the subventricular zone where they branched and capillarized. Capillaries showed few H‐ and/or Y‐shaped anastomoses during their centrifugal course toward the leptomeningeal surface where they drained into cerebral venules and veins. Apart from the accessory olfactory bulb and the vestibule‐cochlear nucleus where capillaries were densely packed, capillaries formed a wide‐meshed 3D network throughout the brain parenchyma and thus contrasted to urodelian brains where hairpin‐shaped capillaries descend from the leptomeningeal vessels into varying depths of the brain parenchyma. In about two‐third of specimens, a closed arterial circle of Willis was found at the base of the brain. If this circle in Xenopus might serve the same two functions as in men is briefly discussed. Choroid plexuses of third and fourth ventricle were found to have a high venous, but a low arterial inflow via one small choroidal artery only. Findings are compared with previous studies on the vascularization of the anuran brain and discrepancies in respect to presence or absence of particular arteries and/or veins in Ranids, Bufonids, and Pipids studied so far are discussed with particular emphasis on the techniques used in the various studies published so far.
A comparison of pectoral fin ray morphology and its impact on fin ray flexural stiffness in labriform swimmers
Authors: Aiello Brett R. , Hardy Adam R. , Cherian Chery , Olsen Aaron M. , Orsbon Courtney P. , Hale Melina E. , Westneat Mark W.
Published: April 2018

The organization of tissues in appendages often affects their mechanical properties and function. In the fish family Labridae, swimming behavior is associated with pectoral fin flexural stiffness and morphology, where fins range on a continuum from stiff to relatively flexible fins. Across this diversity, pectoral fin flexural stiffness decreases exponentially along the length of any given fin ray, and ray stiffness decreases along the chord of the fin from the leading to trailing edge. In this study, we examine the morphological properties of fin rays, including the effective modulus in bending (E), second moment of area (I), segmentation, and branching patterns, and their impact on fin ray stiffness. We quantify intrinsic pectoral fin ray stiffness in similarly sized fins of two closely related species that employ fins of divergent mechanics, the flapping Gomphosus varius and the rowing Halichoeres bivittatus. While segmentation patterns and E were similar between species, measurements of I and the number of fin ray branch nodes were greater in G. varius than in H. bivittatus. A multiple regression model found that of these variables, I was always significantly correlated with fin ray flexural stiffness and that variation in I always explained the majority of the variation in flexural stiffness. Thus, while most of the morphological variables quantified in this study correlate with fin ray flexural stiffness, second moment of area is the greatest factor contributing to variation in flexural stiffness. Further, interspecific variation in fin ray branching pattern could be used as a means of tuning the effective stiffness of the fin webbing to differences in swimming behavior and hydrodynamics. The comparison of these results to other systems begins to unveil fundamental morphological features of biological beams and yields insight into the role of mechanical properties in fin deformation for aquatic locomotion.
Progress towards pig nutrition in the last 27 years
Authors: Wu Yi , Zhao Jianfei , Xu Chenchen , Ma Ning , He Ting , Zhao Jinshan , Ma Xi , Thacker Phil A
Published: April 2018

Over the last 27 years (1990–2017), based on the revolutionary progresses of basic nutrition research, novel methods and techniques have been developed which bring a profound technological revolution to pig production from free‐range system to intensive farming all over the world. Basic theoretical innovations and feed production studies have provided vital advancements in pig nutrition by developing formula feed, utilizing balanced diets, determining feed energy value, dividing pig physiological stages, enhancing gut health, and improving feed processing technique. Formula feed is the primary contributor of the rise of the mechanized farming industry, and meets comprehensive nutritional needs of the pig. The focuses of the development of a balanced diet by optimizing nutrient levels are the amino acids balance, the balance between amino acids and energy, the balance between calcium and phosphorus. Multiple‐site‐production and targeted feeding program have been applied extensively. Early weaning of piglets improves production efficiency, but piglets that have not yet fully developed their intestine are prone to diarrhea. Therefore, intestinal health has received special attention in recent years. Feed processing technologies, such as granulation, puffing, fermentation and enzymatic hydrolysis, can improve the utilization of feed nutrients and reduce production cost. However, increasing a sow's potential for production, seeking alternatives to antibiotics, reducing drug treatment in piglets, developing functional additives and improving meat quality remain future challenges. Herein, we outline the important progresses of pig nutrition in the past 27 years, which will shed light on the basic nutrition rules of pig production, and help to push forward its future development. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Incidence of bacterial diseases associated with irrigation methods on onions (Allium cepa)
Authors: Chorolque Amelia , Pozzo Ardizzi Cristina , Pellejero Graciela , Aschkar Gabriela , García Navarro Francisco J , Jiménez Ballesta Raimundo
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

In the last decade, diseases of bacterial origin in onions have increased and this has led to significant losses in production. These diseases are currently observed in both the Old and New Worlds. The present study aimed to evaluate whether the irrigation method influences the incidence of diseases of bacterial origin.

RESULTS

In cases where the inoculum was natural, the initial incidence of soft bacterial rot did not manifest in any treatment in the first year, whereas, at the end of the conservation period, all treatments had increased incidences of infection. Sprinkler irrigation (8%) was statistically differentiated from the other treatments, for which the final incidence was similar (4.5%). For all irrigation treatments, the final incidence of bacterial soft rot decreased or remained stable towards the end of the cycle, with the exception of sprinkler irrigation in 2015, which increased.

CONCLUSION

From the results of the present study, it can be inferred that the irrigation method does have an influence on the incidence of diseases of bacterial origin in the post‐harvest stage for onions. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Motion‐blur‐free LCD for high‐resolution virtual reality displays
Authors: Gou Fangwang , Chen Haiwei , Li Ming‐Chun , Lee Seok‐Lyul , Wu Shin‐Tson
Published: April 2018

A new liquid crystal display device with fast response time, high transmittance, and low voltage for virtual reality is reported. When driven at 90 Hz with 17% duty ratio, the motion picture response time is 1.5 ms, which is comparable with cathode‐ray tube, leading to indistinguishable motion blur. Moreover, this device enables high‐resolution density because only one thin‐film transistor per pixel is needed and it has a built‐in storage capacitor.
Otogenic brain abscesses: A systematic review
Authors: Duarte Maria J. , Kozin Elliott D. , Barshak Miriam B. , Reinshagen Katherine , Knoll Renata M. , Abdullah Kalil G. , Welling D. Bradley , Jung David H.
Published: April 2018

Objective

Otogenic brain abscesses are one of the most significant life‐threatening complications of otologic infections. Given their low prevalence, otogenic brain abscesses require a high index of suspicion for diagnosis. In this systematic review, we aim to provide an analysis of otogenic brain abscesses and describe common clinical signs and symptoms, bacteriology, location, treatment options, morbidity, and mortality.

Data Sources

PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL database, Google Scholar, and Scopus.

Methods

A systematic review of literature was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses recommendations. Variables assessed included clinical signs and symptoms, bacteriology, location, treatment, morbidity, and mortality.

Results

Twenty‐nine studies met inclusion and exclusion criteria, corresponding to a total of 1307 otogenic abscess cases for review. Fifty‐five percent of abscesses were found in the temporal lobe and 28% in the cerebellum. Most patients (88.3%) had a history of suppurative chronic otitis media. The most common symptoms were headache, altered mental status, papilledema, and meningeal irritation. Fever, nausea, and vomiting affected about 40% of patients. The most commonly cultured bacterial species was Proteus mirabilis. In addition to antibiotics, most otogenic brain abscesses were treated by burr hole aspiration. Average mortality following advent of computed tomography was 8.11%.

Conclusion

Although rare, otogenic brain abscesses may occur as a complication of suppurative otitis media and require a high index of suspicion. Appropriate imaging studies and multidisciplinary expertise are crucial in the diagnosis and management.

Level of Evidence

4.
Expression of granulosa cell microRNAs, AVEN and ATRX are associated with human blastocyst development
Authors: O’Doherty Alan M. , O’Brien Yvonne M. , Browne John A. , Wingfield Mary , O’Shea Lynne C.
Published: April 2018

A greater understanding of the key molecules associated with embryo development during human‐assisted reproduction is imperative for the development of advanced diagnostics. Previous studies have shown that follicular microRNAs (miRNAs) are reliable markers of the polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Leveraging the utility of miRNAs in PCOS, the aim of this study was to identify miRNAs in human granulosa cells that may be indicative of blastocyst development. Granulosa cells and oocytes were collected from the first follicle aspirated from patients undergoing oocyte retrieval for in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. The development of isolated oocytes was recorded, and granulosa cell samples in this study were separated as follows. Group 1—BLAST: granulosa cells from follicles containing an oocyte that fertilized and developed into a blastocyst, and Group 2—FERT: granulosa cells from oocytes that fertilized but failed to reach blastocyst. A panel of 84 miRNAs, related to development and cellular differentiation, was assessed between the two groups using a miScript PCR array. Fourteen miRNAs and one snoRNA were differentially expressed between the groups. In addition, two downstream candidate protein biomarkers, ATRX and AVEN, were also found to be differentially expressed between the groups. The findings of this pilot study reveal follicular abnormalities on a molecular level, which may affect oocyte competence and its potential to develop successfully as an embryo. We encourage additional studies to confirm and expand on our findings and to determine the usefulness of granulosa‐borne miRNAs, ATRX, and AVEN as biomarkers.
The Caenorhabditis elegans spe‐49 gene is required for fertilization and encodes a sperm‐specific transmembrane protein homologous to SPE‐42
Authors: Wilson Luke D. , Obakpolor Omoyemwen A. , Jones Autumn M. , Richie Abigail L. , Mieczkowski Bryce D. , Fall Gabriel T. , Hall Rosine W. , Rumbley Jon N. , Kroft Tim L.
Published: April 2018

Fertilization, the fusion of sperm and oocyte to form a zygote, is the first and arguably the most important cell–cell interaction event in an organism’s life. Forward and reverse genetic approaches in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans have identified many genes that are required for gametogenesis and fertilization and thus are beginning to elucidate the molecular pathways that underlie these processes. We identified an allele of the spe‐49 gene in a second filial generation (F2) mutagenesis screen for spermatogenesis‐defective (spe) mutants. Mutant worms for spe‐49 produce sperm that have normal morphology, activate to form ameboid spermatozoa, and can migrate to and maintain their position in the hermaphrodite reproductive tract but fail to fertilize oocytes. This phenotype puts spe‐49 in the spe‐9 class of late‐acting genes that function in sperm at the time of fertilization. We cloned the spe‐49 gene through a combination of deficiency mapping, transgenic rescue, and genomic sequencing. spe‐49 messenger RNA (mRNA) is enriched in male germ cells, and the complementary DNA (cDNA) encodes a predicted 772‐amino‐acid six‐pass transmembrane protein that is homologous to SPE‐42. Indeed, SPE‐49 and SPE‐42 have identical predicted membrane topology and domain structure, including a large extracellular domain with six conserved cysteine residues, a DC‐STAMP domain, and a C‐terminal cytoplasmic domain containing a C4–C4 RING finger motif. The presence of two SPE‐42 homologs in animal genomes from worms to humans suggests that these proteins are highly conserved components of the molecular apparatus required for the sperm–oocyte recognition, binding, and fusion.