bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single arm retrospective study of bioresorbable vascular scaffolds to treat patients with severe infrapopliteal arterial disease
Authors: Dia AbdulRahman , Venturini Joseph M. , Kalathiya Rohan , Besser Stephanie , Estrada Raider , Friant Janet , Paul Jonathan , Blair John E. , Nathan Sandeep , Shah Atman P.
Published: October 2019

Objectives

To assess the safety and efficacy of the Absorb bioresorbable vascular scaffold (BVS) in complex, infrapopliteal lesions for the management of chronic limb ischemia.

Background

The interventional management of infrapopliteal PAD remains challenging due to high restenosis rates with metallic drug‐eluting stents and balloon angioplasty. Metallic stents are associated with impaired vessel vasomotor tone, remodeling, autoregulation, and long‐term inflammation. BVSs are biodegradable scaffolds that provide short‐term vascular support before degrading to allow restoration of vasomotor tone and endothelial function. A recent trial reported excellent 12‐month vessel patency rates in simple infrapopliteal arterial lesions treated with Absorb BVS.

Methods

This single‐center, retrospective study evaluated the use of the Absorb BVS (everolimus impregnated poly‐L‐lactic scaffold) in patients with infrapopliteal PAD with respect to safety (thrombosis and TIMI bleeding), technical success, and clinically driven target vessel failure (CD‐TVF) at 12 months.

Results

Thirty‐one patients (51.6% male) with a median age of 67 years with advanced infrapopliteal disease were treated with 49 BVS in 41 vessels. The mean stenosis was 94% (80–100), with 49% of lesions being CTOs. No scaffold thrombosis or periprocedural bleeding was observed. Procedural success was achieved in all patients. Freedom from CD‐TVF was 95.1% at 12 months driven by one revascularization and one amputation. Primary patency was 96.7% at 12 months. All patients were alive at 12 months, and 96.8% of patients improved their Rutherford–Becker classification.

Conclusions

At 12 months, our study found that patients with advanced infrapopliteal PAD who were treated with Absorb BVS reported improved clinical status and a low rate of CD‐TVF.
Methanol‐to‐Olefins in a Membrane Reactor with in situ Steam Removal – The Decisive Role of Coking
Authors: Rieck genannt Best Felix , Mundstock Alexander , Dräger Gerald , Rusch Pascal , Bigall Nadja C. , Richter Hannes , Caro Jürgen
Published: October 2019

The reaction of methanol to light olefins and water (MTO) was studied in a fixed bed tubular membrane reactor using commercial SAPO‐34 catalyst. In the fixed bed reactor without membrane support, the MTO reaction collapsed after 3 h time on stream. However, if the reaction by‐product steam is in situ extracted from the reactor through a hydrophilic tubular LTA membrane, the reactor produces long‐term stable about 60 % ethene and 10 % propene. It is shown that the reason for the superior performance of the membrane‐assisted reactor is not the prevention of catalyst damage caused by steam but the influence of the water removal on the formation of different carbonaceous residues inside the SAPO‐34 cages. Catalytically beneficial methylated 1 or 2 ring aromatics have been found in a higher percentage in the MTO reaction with a water removal membrane compared to the MTO reaction without membrane support.
Cobalt‐Doped Tungsten Sulfides as Stable and Efficient Air Electrodes for Rechargeable Zinc‐Air Batteries
Authors: Xu Ruizhi , Xu Zejun , Zhang Xinyang , Ling Ying , Li Min , Yang Zehui
Published: October 2019

Stable and efficient air electrode are significantly important for the industrial applications of rechargeable zinc‐air batteries (ZABs). In this work, we introduce approximately 1 at % cobalt to tungsten sulfides nanosheets (Co−WS2) to create a bifunctional electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). A boosted ORR activity with half‐wave potential of 840 mV vs. RHE is achieved for Co−WS2 compared to that of WS2 (776 mV vs. RHE). Meanwhile, the overpotential for delivering 10 mA cm−2 in OER catalysis is decreased from 492 to 303 mV after doping with Co atoms. The excellent ORR and OER activities are ascribed to the presence of Co2+ and Co3+ species in Co−WS2, enabling OOH* intermediate formation and strong binding ability to O2, respectively. The assembled liquid rechargeable ZAB from Co−WS2 exhibits a threefold higher power density than commercial Pt/C−IrO2; moreover, a stable discharge‐charge performance (100 cycles) is recorded. Finally, the fabricated all‐solid‐sate ZAB exhibits a reasonably high power density of 58 mW cm−2 and good stability, implying the potential application of Co−WS2 as an air electrode for rechargeable ZABs.
Opportunities and Challenges of Magnetic Seeded Filtration in Multidimensional Fractionation
Authors: Rhein Frank , Schmid Eric , Esquivel Frederik Blase , Nirschl Hermann
Published: October 2019

This study examines the general applicability of magnetic seeded filtration (MFS) for the fractionation of complex particulate systems by multiple particle features. Experimental studies on a laboratory scale showed that especially the electrostatic interactions govern the separation process. Furthermore, a clear size dependency could be shown, as the separation efficiency decreases with increasing size of target particles. Since MSF is both surface‐ and size‐dependent, it is generally applicable in a multidimensional fractionation. Finally, the challenges to be overcome are addressed as well.
Abdominal vagotomy reveals majority of small intestinal mucosal afferents labeled in nav1.8cre‐rosa26tdTomato mice are vagal in origin
Authors: Serlin Hannah K. , Fox Edward A.
Published: October 2019

Vagal afferents innervating the small intestinal mucosa regulate feeding, gastrointestinal (GI) digestive, and immune functions. Their anatomical‐functional characterization has been impeded by the inability to selectively label and manipulate them. Nav1.8‐Cre‐tdTomato mice label 80% of nodose and dorsal root ganglia neurons. Here, the origin of these neuron's terminals and their distribution in the small intestinal mucosa were examined by quantitatively comparing tdTomato‐labeled innervation in nonoperated (control), subdiaphragmatic vagotomy (VAGX), and sham‐operated mice. Control mice exhibited a large proximal‐to‐distal decrease and a moderate mesentery‐to‐antimesentery decrease in villus innervation. VAGX reduced this innervation to a greater degree proximally (91–93%) than distally (65–72%), resulting in flat proximal‐distal distributions. Therefore, estimates of vagal villus afferent distributions (control minus VAGX) paralleled control distributions, but were slightly reduced in magnitude. Compared with villus afferents, crypt innervation exhibited a muted proximal‐to‐distal decrease in control mice and a smaller loss after VAGX (45–48%). Sham‐operated mice exhibited similar distributions of villus and crypt afferents as control mice, suggesting surgery did not contribute to the effects of VAGX. Most crypt and villus afferent terminals along the entire proximal‐distal small intestinal axis had similar morphology to those previously reported in the proximal duodenum, but the density of terminal branches varied. Our findings suggest the majority of small intestinal mucosal innervation labeled in Nav1.8‐Cre‐tdTomato mice is vagal in origin. Therefore, these mice will be valuable for studying vagal mucosal afferent morphology, interactions with other GI elements, plasticity, and function.
Refinement of the dopaminergic system of anuran amphibians based on connectivity with habenula, basal ganglia, limbic system, pallium, and spinal cord
Authors: Freudenmacher Lars , Schauer Maria , Walkowiak Wolfgang , von Twickel Arndt
Published: October 2019

Whereas our understanding of the dopaminergic system in mammals allows for a distinction between ventral tegmental area (VTA) and substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc), no clear evidence for separate structures in anamniotes has been presented to date. To broaden the insight into the organization and regulation of neuromodulatory systems in anuran amphibians, tracing and immunohistochemical investigations were performed in the Oriental fire‐bellied toad, Bombina orientalis. Topographically organized catecholaminergic “nigrostriatal,” “mesolimbic,” “mesocortical,” and spinal cord projections arising from the posterior tubercle and mesencephalic tegmentum were identified. We compared these results with published data from lampreys, chondrichthyes, teleosts, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Based on the pattern of organization, as well as the differential innervation by the habenular nuclei, domains gradually comparable to the mammalian paranigral VTA, ventral tier of the SNc, interfascicular nucleus of the VTA, and supramamillary/retromamillary area were identified. Additionally, we could demonstrate topographic separate populations of habenula neurons projecting via a direct excitatory or indirect GABAergic pathway onto the catecholaminergic VTA/SNc homologs and serotonergic raphe nuclei. The indirect GABAergic habenula pathway derives from neurons in the superficial mamillary area, which in terms of its connectivity and chemoarchitecture resembles the mammalian rostromedial tegmental nucleus. These results demonstrate a much more elaborate interconnection principle of the anuran dopaminergic system than previously assumed. Based on the data presented it seems that most features of the dopaminergic system of amniotes had already evolved when the amphibian line of evolution diverged from that leading up to mammals, reptiles, and birds.
Parameter estimation to study the immediate impact of aortic cross‐clamping using reduced order models
Authors: Ventre Jeanne , Politi M. Teresa , Fernández Juan M. , Ghigo Arthur R. , Gaudric Julien , Wray Sandra A. , Lagaert Jean‐Baptiste , Armentano Ricardo , Capurro Claudia , Fullana José Maria , Lagrée Pierre‐Yves
Published: October 2019

Aortic cross‐clamping is a common strategy during vascular surgery, however, its instantaneous impact on hemodynamics is unknown. We, therefore, developed two numerical models to estimate the immediate impact of aortic clamping on the vascular properties. To assess the validity of the models, we recorded continuous invasive pressure signals during abdominal aneurysm repair surgery, immediately before and after clamping. The first model is a zero‐dimensional (0D) three‐element Windkessel model, which we coupled to a gradient‐based parameter estimation algorithm to identify patient‐specific parameters such as vascular resistance and compliance. We found a 10% increase in the total resistance and a 20% decrease in the total compliance after clamping. The second model is a nine‐artery network corresponding to an average human body in which we solved the one‐dimensional (1D) blood flow equations. With a similar parameter estimation method and using the results from the 0D model, we identified the resistance boundary conditions of the 1D network. Determining the patient‐specific total resistance and the distribution of peripheral resistances through the parameter estimation process was sufficient for the 1D model to accurately reproduce the impact of clamping on the pressure waveform. Both models gave an accurate description of the pressure wave and had a high correlation (R2 > .95) with experimental blood pressure data.
Assessment of DNA Susceptibility to Denaturation as a Marker of Chromatin Structure
Authors: Darzynkiewicz Zbigniew , Halicka Dorota H. , Zhao Hong , Li Jiangwei
Published: October 2019

The susceptibility of DNA in situ to denaturation is modulated by its interactions with histone and nonhistone proteins, as well as with other chromatin components related to the maintenance of the 3D nuclear structure. Measurement of DNA proclivity to denature by cytometry provides insight into chromatin structure and thus can be used to recognize cells in different phases of the cell cycle, including mitosis, quiescence (G0), and apoptosis, as well as to identify the effects of drugs that modify chromatin structure. Particularly useful is the method's ability to detect chromatin changes in sperm cells related to DNA fragmentation and infertility. This article presents a flow cytometric procedure for assessing DNA denaturation based on application of the metachromatic property of acridine orange (AO) to differentially stain single‐ versus double‐stranded DNA. This approach circumvents limitations of biochemical methods of examining DNA denaturation, in particular the fact that the latter destroy higher orders of chromatin structure and that, being applied to bulk cell populations, they cannot detect heterogeneity of individual cells. Because the metachromatic properties of AO have also found application in other cytometric procedures, such as differential staining of RNA versus DNA and assessment of lysosomal proton pump including autophagy, to avert confusion between these approaches and the use of this dye in the DNA denaturation assay, these AO applications are briefly outlined in this unit as well. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol: Differential staining of single‐ versus double‐stranded DNA with acridine orange
1,2,5‐Oxadiazole‐Based High‐Energy‐Density Materials: Synthesis and Performance
Authors: Fershtat Leonid L. , Makhova Nina N.
Published: October 2019

This Review covers the synthesis and performance of the most promising 1,2,5‐oxadiazole‐based high‐energy density materials (HEDMs). These materials comprise a 1,2,5‐oxadiazole subunit as a key structural motif linked to various acyclic explosophoric groups or to nitrogen‐rich and nitrogen‐oxygen azoles: 1,2,4‐triazole, tetrazole, 1,2,4‐ and 1,3,4‐oxadiazoles. Energetic alliances of two and more 1,2,5‐oxadiazole rings linked directly or through heteroatom spacers are also presented. Particular attention is devoted to the installation of different explosophores: nitro, nitramino, azo, azoxy, dinitromethyl, trinitroethyl moieties and their combination. Promising environmentally benign energetic materials with high detonation velocity and pressure, and outstanding insensitivity are summarized. Overall, the presented materials may be considered as next‐generation high‐performance energetic materials that are superior to commonly used traditional explosives (TNT, PETN, RDX, HMX).
The Future of Microbiome‐Based Therapeutics in Clinical Applications
Authors: Sharma Anukriti , Das Promi , Buschmann Mary , Gilbert Jack A.
Published: October 2019

The microbiome, a collection of microorganisms, their genomes, and the surrounding environmental conditions, is akin to a human organ, and knowledge is emerging on its role in human health and diseases. The influence of the microbiome in drug response has only been investigated in detail for the last 10 years. The human microbiome is a complex and highly dynamic system, which varies dramatically between individuals, yet there exists a common core microbiome that is heritable and can be transmitted to progeny. Here, we review the role of the human microbiome, which is now widely accepted as a major factor that drives the interpersonal variation in therapeutic response. We describe examples in which the microbiome modifies drug action. Despite its complexity, the microbiome can be readily altered, with the potential to increase the benefits and reduce the toxicity and side effects associated with pharmaceutical drugs. The potential of new microbiome‐based strategies, such as fecal microbiota transplant, probiotics, and phage therapy, as promising medical therapeutics are outlined. We also suggest a combination reductionist and system‐level approaches that could be applied to further investigate the role of microbiota in drug metabolism modulation of drug response. Finally, we emphasize the importance of combining microbiome and pharmacology studies as a novel means to treat disease and reduce side effects.
Innovations in Targeted Anti‐Adhesion Treatment for Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Kanter Julie , Lanzkron Sophie
Published: October 2019

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited hemoglobinopathy that leads to significant lifetime morbidity and early mortality. An enhanced understanding of the complex pathophysiology of the disease has elucidated novel therapeutic targets for which new therapies are in development. In order to increase the therapeutic landscape, it has been important to identify the blood vessel and more specifically the endothelium as the target organ in this complex disease. Through this lens, we present a review of new anti‐adhesion therapies for SCD in development. The long‐term promise of multimodal therapies for SCD is finally on the horizon.
Qualitative perceptions of and preferences for the research process among patients with eating disorders
Authors: Ortiz Shelby N. , Espel‐Huynh Hallie M. , Felonis Christina , Scharff Adela
Published: October 2019

Objective

Low participation and retention rates are persistent problems in eating disorder (ED) research. In order to improve the research process, this study used a qualitative approach to examine factors promoting and limiting research study participation among patients with EDs, and their preferences during research.

Method

Five 90‐min focus groups were conducted with adult women (N = 29) enrolled at a residential ED treatment facility. Facilitators asked a series of open‐ended questions about participants' experiences, opinions, and preferences with regard to ED treatment research. Transcript analysis identified themes using a consensual qualitative research approach.

Results

It was revealed that preventing others' suffering, improving ED treatment, and having low participant burden were major themes facilitating research participation. Major barriers to research participation included concern that research interferes with self‐care/recovery, burdensome nature of study design, and demeanor of the researchers/institutions involved with the study. Patients believed that the format of research assessments could be improved by better assessing the nuances of ED behaviors, examining non‐ED outcomes, and including more open‐ended questions. Patients anticipated that challenges in recovery, feelings of guilt, and logistical barriers could interfere with their ability to complete follow‐up research assessments.

Discussion

Factors related to the recruitment process, assessment format, follow‐up methods, and communication throughout the research process may need to be addressed to increase participation and retention rates. Findings indicate that recruitment strategies should include emphasizing the broader impact of the research and increasing sensitivity to the nature of patients with EDs experiences.
Ocean acidification during prefertilization chemical communication affects sperm success
Authors: Lymbery Rowan A. , Kennington W. Jason , Cornwall Christopher E. , Evans Jonathan P.
Published: October 2019

Ocean acidification (OA) poses a major threat to marine organisms, particularly during reproduction when externally shed gametes are vulnerable to changes in seawater pH. Accordingly, several studies on OA have focused on how changes in seawater pH influence sperm behavior and/or rates of in vitro fertilization. By contrast, few studies have examined how pH influences prefertilization gamete interactions, which are crucial during natural spawning events in most externally fertilizing taxa. One mechanism of gamete interaction that forms an important component of fertilization in most taxa is communication between sperm and egg‐derived chemicals. These chemical signals, along with the physiological responses in sperm they elicit, are likely to be highly sensitive to changes in seawater chemistry. In this study, we experimentally tested this possibility using the blue mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis, a species in which females have been shown to use egg‐derived chemicals to promote the success of sperm from genetically compatible males. We conducted trials in which sperm were allowed to swim in gradients of egg‐derived chemicals under different seawater CO2 (and therefore pH) treatments. We found that sperm had elevated fertilization rates after swimming in the presence of egg‐derived chemicals in low pH (pH 7.6) compared with ambient (pH 8.0) seawater. This observed effect could have important implications for the reproductive fitness of external fertilizers, where gamete compatibility plays a critical role in modulating reproduction in many species. For example, elevated sperm fertilization rates might disrupt the eggs' capacity to avoid fertilizations by genetically incompatible sperm. Our findings highlight the need to understand how OA affects the multiple stages of sperm‐egg interactions and to develop approaches that disentangle the implications of OA for female, male, and population fitness.
Coinfection modifies carriage of enzootic and zoonotic parasites in Norway rats from an urban slum
Authors: Carvalho‐Pereira Ticiana S. A. , Souza Fábio Neves , Santos Luana Ribeiro do Nascimento , Pedra Gabriel Ghizzi , Minter Amanda , Bahiense Thiago Campanharo , Reis Mitermayer Galvão , Ko Albert Icksang , Childs James E. , da Silva Eduardo M. , Costa Federico , Begon Mike
Published: October 2019

We examine coinfection between helminth species and the bacterium Leptospira interrogans in a natural population of the Norway rat, Rattus norvegicus. We ask whether coinfection can influence the probability and intensity of infection of these enzootic and zoonotic parasites in urban rats, which may affect the loads of parasites excreted into the environment. Rodent sampling was carried out during two seasons in 2014 in a Brazilian urban slum. We sampled rats’ feces, kidney imprints, and urine to identify and quantify helminth eggs/larvae and infection by L. interrogans. Eleven species/groups of helminths and L. interrogans were identified among 299 captured rats. Simple correlation tests and generalized linear models were performed to identify general patterns of coinfection and potential direction of effects, respectively, after controlling for consolidated environmental and host biotic variables. Significant associations were illustrated in an interaction network. Focusing on parasites with the potential to cause zoonoses among humans, we observed that coinfection between L. interrogans and the nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis was significantly more frequent than expected. Reduced prevalence of A. cantonensis was found in the presence of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, and N. brasiliensis intensities (eggs per gram of feces) were increased with greater intensities of both L. interrogans and Strongyloides sp., the latter of which was, in turn, found to increase the intensities of A. cantonensis. A higher probability of finding L. interrogans was associated with infection by Strongyloides sp. Our study provides a novel perspective on evaluating helminth coinfection profiles in populations of naturally infected urban rats, moving beyond previous studies which have been limited to descriptions of co‐occurrence. Noticeably, infection risk was dependent on coinfection and this should be accounted for when targeting the control of zoonotic pathogens in natural populations.
An early career perspective on encouraging collaborative and interdisciplinary research in ecology
Authors: Pannell J. L. , Dencer‐Brown A. M. , Greening S. S. , Hume E. A. , Jarvis R. M. , Mathieu C. , Mugford J. , Runghen R.
Published: October 2019

There is a growing need for collaborative and interdisciplinary research in addressing global ecological challenges, and early career researchers (ECRs) often play a vital role in such ventures. But despite the desire for such approaches, forming new and interdisciplinary collaborations is risky, and disproportionately so for ECRs, whose perspectives on this topic are rarely heard. Here, we present common perceptions among ECRs regarding opportunities for intra‐ and interdisciplinary collaboration, and barriers preventing such collaboration from taking place. We also discuss possible solutions, and the ecological outcomes of fostering more collaboration. The perceptions discussed have been distilled from a two‐day workshop in New Zealand, aiming to investigate the potential for collaboration between 34 ECRs in distinct ecological disciplines across ten research institutes. Commonality in methodology or research aims was vital for potential collaborations to be considered worthwhile, but differences in spatial or temporal scales were a key disconnect that hindered numerous potential crossovers. Individual connectivity and institutional structures were commonly perceived as barriers to acting collaboratively in general. Specifically, barriers included having a small peer network, lack of access to funding, and concerns over the risk/reward ratio of forming new collaborations. Overcoming barriers will require active, practical support from institutions, funding bodies and mentors, and participants commonly called for specific funding support and the creation of ECR‐focused spaces to better foster collaborative behavior. Fostering interdisciplinary ECR collaborations in ecology was perceived to be useful in creating larger and more useful datasets and tools, and more scalable and transferable models and outcomes. Adopting practices that facilitate more ECR‐led interdisciplinary collaboration will help generate a more integrative understanding of ecological systems globally.
A mechanistic understanding of ecological responses to land‐use change in headwater streams
Authors: Walker Richard H. , Walters Annika W.
Published: October 2019

Anthropogenic activities, such as oil and natural gas development (ONGD), have significantly altered the landscape. It is often challenging to identify the mechanistic processes underlying ecological responses to land‐use change (LUC). In aquatic ecosystems, alterations to habitat and food availability and water quality associated with increased LUC are key mechanistic pathways that deserve management consideration. We used structural equation modeling to evaluate how LUC associated with ONGD could influence macroinvertebrate and fish across 40 sites in six headwater streams in the Wyoming Range of the Upper Green River Basin, Wyoming. The most important mechanistic pathway varied, but responses were frequently driven by a direct effect of LUC or related to changes in food availability and water quality. Habitat complexity was the least important mechanistic pathway in our models. Our results also highlight that responses may reflect an organism's degree of habitat or resource specialization and/or sensitivity to changes in water quality. Habitat pathways were more important for habitat specialists (e.g., Mottled Sculpin, Cottus bairdii), food pathways were more important for food specialists (e.g., Colorado River Cutthroat Trout, Oncorhynchus clarki pleuriticus; Mountain Sucker, Catostomus platyrhynchus), and sensitivity to increased salinity was important for intolerant species (e.g., O. clarki, C. bairdii, and predatory macroinvertebrates). Continued identification of the specific mechanisms underlying species’ responses to increased LUC will aid in the conservation of ecologically and economically important species.
Effect and mechanism of geological structures on coal seam gas occurrence in Changping minefield
Authors: Chen Xiangjun , Li Liyang , Yuan Yu , Li Hong
Published: October 2019

The main factor affecting the gas content in a coal seam is the geological structure, and different types of geological structure have different effects on the gas content in a coal seam. To explore the main controlling factors of gas content in coal seam No. 3 in the Changping minefield, and the effect of different geological structures on gas control in a coal seam, this study analyzes the types and quantities of geological structures in the Changping minefield. Further, geological boreholes are used to sample and analyze coal seams near different geological structures and at different burial depths. The results show that the main controlling factor of gas content in a coal seam is the burial depth of the coal seam, and the gas content tends to increase with the increasing depth. A geological structure has an effect on the occurrence of coal seam gas in a local area, and the gas content in the coal seam near a fault is 1.6 times that in the normal areas at the same depth. The gas content in the upper wall of a normal fault is 21.6% higher than that in the lower wall. The syncline and anticline axes are prone to form gas accumulation areas, where the gas content is 30%‐60% higher than the normal level. Gas accumulation is prone to occur around a collapse column, and the gas content there is 2.47 times higher than that in a normal area at the same burial depth. Combining the formation mechanism and structural characteristics of different geological structures, this study analyzes the effect of geological structures on coal seam gas quantitatively and provides a theoretical basis for the prevention and control of gas disasters in the Changping minefield.
Quality evaluation of rapeseed oil in Chinese traditional stir‐frying
Authors: Zhou Qi , Jia Xiao , Deng Qianchun , Chen Hong , Tang Hu , Huang Fenghong
Published: October 2019

Canolol is a potential antioxidation ingredient in rapeseed oil. Rapeseed oil with two levels of canolol (528.9 vs. 250.5 mg/kg) was used for stir‐frying different foods (potatoes, tofu, and vegetables). Comprehensive evaluations indicated that the canolol content in high canolol rapeseed oil (HCR) and low canolol rapeseed oil (LCR) after stir‐frying were in the range of 187.8–237.7 and 45.6–96.4 mg/kg, respectively. The degradation rate of total phenol was 58.4% and 80.3% in HCR and LCR, respectively. The loss rates of α‐ and γ‐tocopherol were 24.5% and 47.6%, respectively. Phytosterol concentration decreased by 20% and trans‐fatty acid was not detected in either rapeseed oil. In addition, the peroxide value, anisidine value, and malondialdehyde content in HCR were lower than those in LCR. The oxidative stability index in HCR was longer, showing lower extent of deterioration. Rapeseed oil with high canolol content displayed good oxidation resistance due to significant positive correlation with oxidation induction time (p < .01).
Altered resting‐state functional connectivity within the developing social brain after pediatric traumatic brain injury
Authors: Tuerk Carola , Dégeilh Fanny , Catroppa Cathy , Dooley Julian J. , Kean Michael , Anderson Vicki , Beauchamp Miriam H.
Published: October 2019

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) in childhood and adolescence can interrupt expected development, compromise the integrity of the social brain network (SBN) and impact social skills. Yet, no study has investigated functional alterations of the SBN following pediatric TBI. This study explored functional connectivity within the SBN following TBI in two independent adolescent samples. First, 14 adolescents with mild complex, moderate or severe TBI and 16 typically developing controls (TDC) underwent resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging 12–24 months post‐injury. Region of interest analyses were conducted to compare the groups' functional connectivity using selected SBN seeds. Then, replicative analysis was performed in an independent sample of adolescents with similar characteristics (9 TBI, 9 TDC). Results were adjusted for age, sex, socioeconomic status and total gray matter volume, and corrected for multiple comparisons. Significant between‐group differences were detected for functional connectivity in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex and left fusiform gyrus, and between the left fusiform gyrus and left superior frontal gyrus, indicating positive functional connectivity for the TBI group (negative for TDC). The replication study revealed group differences in the same direction between the left superior frontal gyrus and right fusiform gyrus. This study indicates that pediatric TBI may alter functional connectivity of the social brain. Frontal‐fusiform connectivity has previously been shown to support affect recognition and changes in the function of this network could relate to more effortful processing and broad social impairments.
The role of BDNF methylation and Val66Met in amygdala reactivity during emotion processing
Authors: Redlich Ronny , Schneider Ilona , Kerkenberg Nicole , Opel Nils , Bauhaus Jonas , Enneking Verena , Repple Jonathan , Leehr Elisabeth J. , Grotegerd Dominik , Kähler Claas , Förster Katharina , Dohm Katharina , Meinert Susanne , Hahn Tim , Kugel Harald , Schwarte Kathrin , Schettler Christiane , Domschke Katharina , Arolt Volker , Heindel Walter , Baune Bernhard T. , Zhang Weiqi , Hohoff Christa , Dannlowski Udo
Published: October 2019

Epigenetic alterations of the brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene have been associated with psychiatric disorders in humans and with differences in amygdala BDNF mRNA levels in rodents. This human study aimed to investigate the relationship between the functional BDNF‐Val66Met polymorphism, its surrounding DNA methylation in BDNF exon IX, amygdala reactivity to emotional faces, and personality traits. Healthy controls (HC, n = 189) underwent functional MRI during an emotional face‐matching task. Harm avoidance, novelty seeking and reward dependence were measured using the Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire (TPQ). Individual BDNF methylation profiles were ascertained and associated with several BDNF single nucleotide polymorphisms surrounding the BDNF‐Val66Met, amygdala reactivity, novelty seeking and harm avoidance. Higher BDNF methylation was associated with higher amygdala reactivity (x = 34, y = 0, z = −26, t(166) = 3.00, TFCE = 42.39, p(FWE) = .045), whereby the BDNF‐Val66Met genotype per se did not show any significant association with brain function. Furthermore, novelty seeking was negatively associated with BDNF methylation (r = −.19, p = .015) and amygdala reactivity (r = −.17, p = .028), while harm avoidance showed a trend for a positive association with BDNF methylation (r = .14, p = .066). The study provides first insights into the relationship among BDNF methylation, BDNF genotype, amygdala reactivity and personality traits in humans, highlighting the multidimensional relations among genetics, epigenetics, and neuronal functions. The present study suggests a possible involvement of epigenetic BDNF modifications in psychiatric disorders and related brain functions, whereby high BDNF methylation might reduce BDNF mRNA expression and upregulate amygdala reactivity.
Exosomes and cancer: From oncogenic roles to therapeutic applications
Authors: Mohammadi Soheila , Yousefi Fatemeh , Shabaninejad Zahra , Movahedpour Ahmad , Mahjoubin Tehran Maryam , Shafiee Alimohammad , Moradizarmehri Sanaz , Hajighadimi Sarah , Savardashtaki Amir , Mirzaei Hamed
Published: October 2019

Exosomes belong to extracellular vehicles that were produced and secreted from most eukaryotic cells and are involved in cell‐to‐cell communications. They are an effective delivery system for biological compounds such as mRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs), proteins, lipids, saccharides, and other physiological compounds to target cells. In this way, they could influence on cellular pathways and mediate their physiological behaviors including cell proliferation, tumorigenesis, differentiation, and so on. Many research studies focused on their role in cancers and also on potentially therapeutic and biomarker applications. In the current study, we reviewed the exosomes' effects on cancer progression based on their cargoes including miRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, circular RNAs, DNAs, mRNAs, proteins, and lipids. Moreover, their therapeutic roles in cancer were considered. In this regard, we have given a brief overview of challenges and obstacles in using exosomes as therapeutic agents.
Enzymatically gellable gelatin improves nano‐hydroxyapatite‐alginate microcapsule characteristics for modular bone tissue formation
Authors: Firouzi Nima , Baradar Khoshfetrat Ali , Kazemi Davoud
Published: October 2019

To maintain gelatin (Gel) as adhesive motifs inside alginate microcapsule as building blocks of modular approach, phenol moiety (Ph) was introduced into gelatin (Gel Ph). Addition of Gel Ph to alginate (Alg‐Gel Ph) dramatically altered the physical properties of alginate‐based hydrogels as compared to unmodified gelatin (Alg‐Gel) addition. Alg‐Gel Ph hydrogels revealed a dramatically lower swelling ratios (63%) as compared to Alg‐Gel hydrogels (150%). Moreover, Gel Ph decreased 40% degradation rate of alginate‐based hydrogels after 72 hr, while increasing compressive modulus 3.5‐fold as compared to Alg‐Gel hydrogels. Introducing nano‐hydroxyapatite (nHA) to Alg‐Gel Ph hydrogel (Alg‐Gel Ph‐nHA) could reduce degradation rate to 41.5% and improve compressive modulus of hydrogels significantly, reaching to 294 ± 2.5 kPa. The microencapsulated osteoblast‐like cells proliferated considerably and showed more metabolic activities (two times) in Alg‐Gel Ph‐nHA microcapsules during a 21‐day culture period, resulting in more calcium deposition and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities. The subcutaneous microcapsules could also be identified readily without complete absorption and signs of toxicity or any untoward reactions and viable osteoblast‐like cells were seen as red colored areas in the central regions of cell‐laden microcapsules after 1 month. The study demonstrated Alg‐Gel Ph‐nHA microcapsule as a promising 3D microenvironment for modular bone tissue formation.
Greater Bone Marrow Adiposity Predicts Bone Loss in Older Women
Authors: Woods Gina N , Ewing Susan K , Sigurdsson Sigurdur , Kado Deborah M , Eiriksdottir Gudny , Gudnason Vilmundur , Hue Trisha F , Lang Thomas F , Vittinghoff Eric , Harris Tamara B , Rosen Clifford , Xu Kaipin , Li Xiaojuan , Schwartz Ann V
Published: October 2019

Bone marrow adiposity (BMA) is associated with aging and osteoporosis, but whether BMA can predict bone loss and fractures remains unknown. Using data from the Age Gene/Environment Susceptibility (AGES)-Reykjavik study, we investigated the associations between 1H-MRS–based measures of vertebral bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT), annualized change in bone density/strength by quantitative computed tomography (QCT) and DXA, and secondarily, with incident clinical fractures and radiographic vertebral fractures among older adults. The associations between BMAT and annualized change in bone density/strength were evaluated using linear regression models, adjusted for age, body mass index (BMI), diabetes, estradiol, and testosterone. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the associations between baseline BMAT and incident clinical fractures, and logistic regression models for incident vertebral fractures. At baseline, mean ± SD age was 80.9 ± 4.2 and 82.6 ± 4.2 years in women (n = 148) and men (n = 150), respectively. Mean baseline BMAT was 55.4% ± 8.1% in women and 54.1% ± 8.2% in men. Incident clinical fractures occurred in 7.4% of women over 2.8 years and in 6.0% of men over 2.2 years. Incident vertebral fractures occurred in 12% of women over 3.3 years and in 17% of men over 2.7 years. Each 1 SD increase in baseline BMAT was associated with a 3.9 mg2/cm4/year greater loss of spine compressive strength index (p value = .003), a 0.9 mg/cm3/year greater loss of spine trabecular BMD (p value = .02), and a 1.2 mg/cm3/year greater loss of femoral neck trabecular BMD (p value = .02) in women. Among men, there were no associations between BMAT and changes in bone density/strength. There were no associations between BMAT and incident fractures in women or men. In conclusion, we found greater BMAT is associated with greater loss of trabecular bone at the spine and femoral neck, and greater loss of spine compressive strength, in older women. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Whole‐exome sequencing identified compound heterozygous variants in ROR2 gene in a fetus with Robinow syndrome
Authors: Yang Kai , Zhu Jianjiang , Tan Ya , Sun Xiaofei , Zhao Huawei , Tang Guodong , Zhang Dongliang , Qi Hong
Published: October 2019

Background

Autosomal recessive Robinow syndrome (ARRS) is a rare genetic disorder, which affects the development of multiple systems, particularly the bones.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic cause of a ARRS fetus and to evaluate the reliability of whole‐exome sequencing (WES) in prenatal diagnosis on cases with indistinguishable multiple malformation.

Methods

Clinical and ultrasonic evaluations were conducted on the fetus, and multiplatform genetic techniques were used to identify the variation responsible for RS. The pathogenicity of the novel variation was evaluated by in silico methods. Western blotting (WB) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed on fetal tissues after the fetus' stillbirth and postabortal autopsy.

Results

A compound heterozygous variation consisting c.613C > T and c.904C > T in ROR2 gene was identified. In silico prediction suggested that c.904C > T was a deleterious variant. IHC result demonstrated that ror2 expression level of the proband in osteochondral tissue significantly increased comparing with that of the control sample.

Conclusions

For the first time in Chinese population, we characterized a novel variation in ROR2 gene causing ARRS. This study extended the mutation spectrum of ARRS and provided a promising strategy for prenatal diagnosis of cases with ambiguous multiple deformities.
Elementary teachers' perceptions of K‐5 engineering education and perceived barriers to implementation
Authors: Hammack Rebekah , Ivey Toni
Published: October 2019

Background

The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) call for the integration of engineering content and practices in elementary science curricula, yet little is known about elementary teachers' preparedness to do so or their views on teaching engineering.

Purpose/Hypothesis

The purpose of the current study was to explore K‐5 teachers' perceptions about incorporating engineering in their classrooms as well as the perceived barriers for doing so.

Design/Method

This study consisted of an online survey including a mix of selected response, Likert, and short answer items, followed by individual interviews and focus group sessions with a subset of survey participants. Descriptive statistics are reported for quantitative survey data. Open‐ended survey questions as well as interview and focus group transcripts were inductively coded to identify emergent themes.

Results

Many elementary teachers support the inclusion of engineering in the science standards for elementary grades. Teachers describe a lack of preservice and in‐service training, background knowledge, materials, time for planning and implementing lessons, and administrative support as barriers to implementing engineering activities within their classrooms.

Conclusion

While many elementary teachers support the use of engineering activities in their classrooms, there are numerous barriers preventing them from doing so. To ensure that NGSS are incorporated into elementary classrooms as they were intended, elementary teachers must be provided with the necessary training, resources, and support.
Spectroscopic characterization of glycidyl methacrylate with acrylonitrile copolymers and monomer reactivity ratios
Authors: Soykan Cengiz , Obuz Hilal
Published: October 2019

We report herein that copolymers containing glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) with acrylonitrile (AN) units were synthesized by free radical solution polymerization technique using benzoyl peroxide as a free radical initiator and 1,4‐dioxane as a solvent at 70°C. The copolymerization behavior was studied in different composition with the mole fractions of GMA ranging from 0.20 to 0.80 in the feed and under 10% copolymer conversion. The copolymers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, and scanning electron microscopy techniques. The thermogravimetric analysis of the copolymers suggest an overall decrease in the thermal stability of the copolymer with decreasing content of GMA in the copolymers. Thermal decomposition activation energies are calculated by the Ozawa method. The copolymer composition was determined by the application of elemental analysis method. The monomer reactivity ratios were estimated by the application of conventional linearization methods, such as Kelen–Tudos (K‐T), Fineman–Ross (F‐R) methods, and a nonlinear error in variable model (RREVM) method using a computer program, and all results were discussed and compared with the literature.
Cyclic fatigue life of novel rotary compactors: A scanning electron microscopy evaluation
Authors: Orhan Ekim O. , Ertuğrul İhsan F.
Published: October 2019

The aim was to investigate the cyclic fatigue life of two novel rotary compactors produced for MTA compaction and produced for gutta‐percha compaction. Two‐type of nickel‐titanium rotary compactors were used (n = 20). A static model was preferred for this study due to simulating the clinical application of compaction and to obtain a baseline repository data of this type of instruments. OrthoMTA Compacter (25/0.02) and Revo Condensor (30/0.04) instruments were operated speed of 250 and 4,800 rpm, respectively at 35°C until fracture occurred. The time to fracture was recorded, and the length of the fractured fragments was registered. The independent t‐test was performed (p < .05). The fractured instruments were evaluated with a high‐resolution field emission scanning electron microscope to allow visualization of the surfaces under several magnifications (×100 and ×10,000). OrthoMTA Compacter (3679.27 NCF), was extremely different in the mean number of cycles to failure when compared with Revo Condensor (1269.48 NCF) (p < .0001). The mean length of the fractured tip of OrthoMTA Compacter and Revo Condensor were 4.87 mm and 4.51, respectively (p < .0001). The surfaces of the instruments shown typical features of cyclic fatigue failure, involving crack origins, fatigue regions, and an overload region. This is the first study in the literature to date evaluating the cyclic fatigue life of Revo Condensor and OrthoMTA Compacter. OrthoMTA Compacter presented higher cyclic fatigue life compared with Revo Condensor.
Many roads lead to Rome: Neutral phenotypes in microorganisms
Authors: Nanjundiah Vidyanand
Published: October 2019

John Bonner pointed out that microorganisms differ in several ways, some of which may reflect neutral phenotypic evolution. For making his case, Bonner referred to interspecies differences and morphological traits. Here we consider intraspecies differences and physiological traits. As a case‐study, we examine the production of an extracellular cyclic 3,5 monophosphate phosphodiesterase in the cellular slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum. Temporal profiles of phosphodiesterase activity differ significantly between wild‐type strains. From that we argue that the inference drawn initially from studies on a single wild‐type, namely that the profile displayed by it pointed to an adaptive role, was mistaken. We generalize the conclusion to suggest that physiological differences exhibited by microorganisms of the same species may, but need not, reflect adaptations to different environments. Rather, the differences could be related to the fact that microorganisms live in groups whose composition can vary between homogeneous (clonal) and heterogeneous (polyclonal). More than one physiological profile is consistent with the normal development of the group in a given environment; the alternatives are neutral. When studying microbial physiology and behavior, it is expected that the observations are made on a clonal population; genetic (and so phenotypic) heterogeneity is carefully guarded against. As the example from D. discoideum shows, an unintended consequence of overlooking phenotypic heterogeneity is that one can fall into the trap of accepting a seemingly plausible, but possibly erroneous, adaptive explanation for a “normal” wild‐type phenotype.