bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytotoxic and apoptotic properties of a novel nano‐toxin formulation based on biologically synthesized silver nanoparticle loaded with recombinant truncated pseudomonas exotoxin A
Authors: Gholami Navid , Cohan Reza Ahangari , Razavi Alireza , Bigdeli Razieh , Dashbolaghi Aziz , Asgary Vahid
Published: October 2019

Bacterial toxins have received a great deal of attention in the development of antitumor agents. Currently, these protein toxins were used in the immunotoxins as a cancer therapy strategy. Despite the successful use of immunotoxins, immunotherapy strategies are still expensive and limited to hematologic malignancies. In the current study, for the first time, a nano‐toxin comprised of truncated pseudomonas exotoxin (PE38) loaded silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were prepared and their cytotoxicity effect was investigated on human breast cancer cells. The PE38 protein was cloned into pET28a and expressed in Escherichia coli, BL21 (DE3), and purified using metal affinity chromatography and was analyzed by 15% sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. AgNPs were biologically prepared using cell‐free supernatant of E. Coli K12 strain. Nanoparticle formation was characterized by energy dispersive spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. The PE38 protein was loaded on AgNPs and prepared the PE38‐AgNPs nano‐toxin. Additionally, in vitro release indicated a partial slow release of toxin in about 100 hr. The nano‐toxin exhibited dose‐dependent cytotoxicity on MCF‐7 cells. Also, real‐time polymerase chain reaction results demonstrated the ability of nano‐toxin to upregulate Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio and caspase‐3, ‐8, ‐9, and P53 apoptotic genes in the MCF‐7 tumor cells. Apoptosis induction was determined by Annexin‐V/propidium flow cytometry and caspases activity assay after treatment of cancer cells with the nano‐toxin. In general, in the current study, the nano‐toxin exhibit an inhibitory effect on the viability of breast cancer cells through apoptosis, which suggests that AgNPs could be used as a delivery system for targeting of toxins to cancer cells.
The Ecology of Experiences for African American Women in Clinical Doctoral Programs
Authors: Horsford Sheena , Carolan Marsha , Johnson Deborah
Published: October 2019

African American women must navigate higher education, in particular, clinical doctoral programs, as a gendered racial minority. These women often endure multiple levels of discrimination to obtain their degree. Findings of this study highlight these experiences and suggest the importance of increasing supports for African American women in clinical doctoral programs. Practices and supports should be put in place so that students of color are not marginalized because of their race.

Las mujeres afroamericanas tienen que pasar por la educación superior, y particularmente en programas de doctorado clínico, como una minoría racial y de sexo. Estas mujeres sufren con frecuencia múltiples niveles de discriminación para poder obtener su titulación. Los hallazgos de este estudio destacan estas experiencias y sugieren la importancia de incrementar los apoyos para mujeres afroamericanas en programas de doctorado clínico. Deberían implementarse prácticas y apoyos para que las estudiantes de color no sean marginadas por su raza.
The Experiences of Students of Color at a Predominantly White Institution: Implications for Counselor Training
Authors: Pulliam Nicole , Paone Tina R. , Malott Krista M. , Shannon Jordan
Published: October 2019

This qualitative study examined the experiences of 11 students of color who participated in 2 multicultural counseling courses in a master’s‐level counseling program at a predominantly White institution. Findings illustrate students’ learning experiences based on instructors’ racial and ethnic identities, including a pivotal transition from distrust to trust toward the White instructor. Implications for teaching race‐based topics with students of color are presented.

Este estudio cualitativo examinó las experiencias de 11 estudiantes de color que participaron en dos cursos de consejería multicultural en un programa de consejería de nivel máster en una institución predominantemente blanca. Los hallazgos ilustran las experiencias de aprendizaje de los alumnos basadas en las identidades raciales y étnicas de los docentes, incluyendo una transición fundamental desde la desconfianza hasta la confianza hacia el docente blanco. Se presentan las implicaciones para la enseñanza de temas basados en la raza con alumnos de color.
Thriving and Ethnic Discrimination: A Mixed‐Methods Study
Authors: Torres Lucas , Morgan Consoli Melissa L. , Unzueta Emily , Meza Danny , Sanchez Adriana , Najar Natasha
Published: October 2019

Using mixed methodology, the authors examined facilitators to psychological thriving—or positive changes after adversity—in the context of ethnic discrimination among Latina/o adults. Several themes emerged from qualitative interviews (n = 10), including proving others wrong, ethnic identity, and community involvement. Quantitative analyses (n = 97) indicated that U.S. identity moderated the relationship between ethnic microaggressions and thriving such that high levels of U.S. identity were associated with lower thriving. Implications and future directions are discussed.

Usando una metodología mixta, los autores examinaron los facilitadores de la prosperidad psicológica (o cambios positivos tras la adversidad) en el contexto de la discriminación étnica en personas latinas adultas. Varios temas surgieron de las entrevistas cualitativas (n = 10), entre los que se incluyen demostrar que otros estaban equivocados, la identidad étnica y la implicación de la comunidad. Los análisis cuantitativos (n = 97) indicaron que la identidad estadounidense moderó la relación entre las microagresiones étnicas y la prosperidad de tal modo que unos altos niveles de identidad estadounidense se asociaron con una baja prosperidad. Se discuten las implicaciones y direcciones futuras.
The Role of Mindfulness, Self‐Compassion, and Emotion Regulation in Eating Disorder Symptoms Among College Students
Authors: Meyer Lisa P. , Leppma Monica
Published: October 2019

Eating disorders often emerge, resurface, or worsen in individuals during college (National Eating Disorders Association, 2013), substantiating the need to identify protective factors. The relationship between mindfulness, self‐compassion, and emotion regulation and disordered eating was examined in a sample of 100 university students. Results of a path analysis indicated significant direct and indirect effects. Clinical implications and recommendations for future research are discussed.
Understanding Mental Health Scale: Development, Validation, and Implications for College Counselors
Authors: Kalkbrenner Michael T. , Sink Christopher A. , Schwitzer Alan , Richards Traci
Published: October 2019

The development and validation of the 29‐item Understanding Mental Health Scale (UMHS) is described. This new questionnaire measures college students' understanding of mental health issues. The authors also identified significant demographic differences in students' understanding of mental health issues. A principal factor analysis revealed a 2‐factor solution. The dimensions were labeled Risk‐Factor Awareness and External Support Awareness. Findings suggest the UMHS demonstrates adequate reliability and validity. Implications for college counseling are discussed.
Holding the Tension of Opposites: Counselors’ Experiences of the Therapeutic Internalization Process
Authors: Smith Elyssa B.
Published: October 2019

Professional counselors engage in meaningful relationships with their clients over time. In this narrative inquiry, the author explores the experiences of 2 licensed professional counselors who developed meaningful connections with their clients outside of or between their counseling sessions. Three narrative threads were identified. Implications for professional counselors are discussed.
The Influence of Disruption of Core Beliefs, Social Support, and Rumination on Posttraumatic Growth for Korean Undergraduate Students
Authors: Choi Sumi , Lemberger‐Truelove Matthew E. , Cho Sung Mi
Published: October 2019

The authors investigated disruption of core beliefs, deliberate rumination, and perceived social support as each might relate to posttraumatic growth (PTG) for a sample of 1,121 Korean undergraduate students. Results from a structural model supported the hypothesized relationships among the 2 cognitive factors, social support, and PTG. The higher the students’ levels of disruption of core beliefs and perceived social support, the higher their level of deliberate rumination, and both deliberate rumination and perceived social support were positively related to PTG. The results illustrate that both personal and social factors are essential in buffering against felt trauma but might further contribute to unique forms of growth after the experience of a traumatic event.
Neo‐Angiogenesis, Transplant Viability, and Molecular Analyses of Vascularized Bone Allotransplantation Surgery in a Large Animal Model
Authors: Houben Rudolph H. , Thaler Roman , Kotsougiani Dimitra , Friedrich Patricia F. , Shin Alexander Y. , van Wijnen Andre J. , Bishop Allen T.
Published: October 2019

Vascularized composite allotransplantation of bone is a possible alternative treatment for large osseous defects but requires life‐long immunosuppression. Surgical induction of autogenous neo‐angiogenic circulation maintains transplant viability without this requirement, providing encouraging results in small animal models [1–3]. A preliminary feasibility study in a swine tibia model demonstrated similar findings [4, 5]. This study in swine tibial allotransplantation tests its applicability in a pre‐clinical large animal model. Previously, we have demonstrated bone vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) survival was not the result of induction of tolerance nor an incompetent immune system [1]. Fourteen tibia vascularized bone allotransplants were microsurgically transplanted orthotopically to reconstruct size‐matched tibial defects in Yucatan miniature swine. Two weeks of immunosuppression was used to maintain allotransplant pedicle patency during angiogenesis from a simultaneously implanted autogenous arteriovenous bundle. The implanted arteriovenous bundle was patent in group 1 and ligated in group 2 (a neo‐angiogenesis control). At twenty weeks, we quantified the neo‐angiogenesis and correlated it with transplant viability, bone remodeling, and gene expression. All patent arteriovenous bundles maintained patency throughout the survival period. Micro‐angiographic, osteocyte cell count and bone remodeling parameters were significantly higher than controls due to the formation of a neo‐angiogenic autogenous circulation. Analysis of gene expression found maintained osteoblastic and osteoclastic activity as well as a significant increase in expression of endothelial growth factor‐like 6 (EGFL‐6) in the patent arteriovenous bundle group. Vascularized composite allotransplants of swine tibia maintained viability and actively remodeled over 20 weeks when short‐term immunosuppression is combined with simultaneous autogenous neo‐angiogenesis. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:288‐296, 2020
Clonal diversity and substantial genetic divergence of the Daphnia similis species complex in Chinese lakes: Possible adaptations to the uplift of the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Ma Xiaolin , Ni Yijun , Wang Xiaoyu , Hu Wei , Yin Mingbo
Published: October 2019

Very few studies have focused on the biogeography and genetic diversity of aquatic invertebrate zooplankton from the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau, an important biogeographic hotspot. The geological uplift of this region created special environments requiring adaptive genetic diversification of the resident lineages. Here, we developed and used the first set of high‐resolution microsatellite markers for the Daphnia similis species complex. We screened this species in 23 (out of 303) lakes across China, covering a large geographical and ecological range of habitats. High population clonal diversity of the D. similis species complex was found, regardless of their geographical origin. However, four Tibetan Daphnia sinensis populations showed substantially lower clonal diversity. Interestingly, D. sinensis populations from two regions, Eastern China and the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau of Western China, were found to be clearly differentiated from each other. Lakes inhabited by Western D. sinensis were of a lower trophic level, higher altitude, and more likely to freeze in the winter. This study contributes to an understanding of adaptation to their special environments by the freshwater invertebrates in the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau.
How the bending mechanics of setae modulate hydrodynamic sensing in copepods
Authors: Shen Xinhui , Marcos  , Fu Henry C.
Published: October 2019

Copepods sense the hydrodynamic disturbances induced by swimming planktonic prey, potential mates, and predators through the bending of setae on their first antennae and other appendages. While the flows induced by these sources have been studied and are crucial for the mechanoreception of copepods, there is little knowledge on how these flows cause the deformation of the copepod's mechanoreceptional seta. In this article, we present a mechanical model to address how the mechanics of setal deformation by hydrodynamic signals determines the sensing capabilities of copepods. We represent a generic flow around a copepod as a combination of a uniform plus shear flow, and demonstrate that the detailed geometry of the first antenna has non‐negligible effects on the flow profile across the seta. We then proceed to evaluate the setal deformations induced by such a flow oscillating at frequencies relevant for copepod sensing, and find that lower frequency signals lead to larger setal bending and are more easily detected. We investigate the effects of setal length, signal amplitude, and signal frequency on setal bending. Finally, we investigate the response time of setal bending to hydrodynamic signals, and find short response time consistent with the rapid behavioral and neurological response of copepods.
Ureter Identification In an Inflammatory Pig Model Using a Novel Near‐Infrared Fluorescent Dye
Authors: Lau Lung Wai , Luciano Michael , Schnermann Martin , Cha Jaepyeong
Published: October 2019

Background and Objectives

Ureters are at risk of injury in settings of inflammation and distorted anatomy. The use of a fluorescent dye can improve intraoperative ureteral identification without the need for any additional invasive procedures. Our team has previously described the development of a preclinical ureter‐specific dye, UL‐766, tested in a rat model. Here, we present the use of the fluorescent dye during laparoscopy to assist in ureteral identification in a swine model with an inflamed abdomen; the results of this study serve as proof of feasibility for use in the setting of tissue edema and erythema.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

With institutional approval, two 20–25 kg pigs underwent abdominal surgery with the use of a Food and Drug Administration‐approved fluorescence laparoscopic system. Using standard laparoscopy, inflammation was induced with sharp and blunt dissection and irritation was induced with gauze. The animals were allowed to recover and returned to the operating room after 7 days. Images of the inflamed right retroperitoneum, with fluorescence imaging, turned on, were taken before and after intravenous injection of the novel fluorescent dye at 120 μg/kg. The time until fluorescence visualization of the ureters was measured, and the fluorescent signal was measured for up to 4 hours from the time of the initial dye injection. Partial and complete transection of ureteral injuries was made by scissors and monitored under both standard video and fluorescence laparoscopy.

Results

Inflammation reduced the certainty of ureter identification by white light alone. Despite surrounding tissue erythema and edema, ureteral visualization under fluorescence laparoscopy was achieved within 5–10 minutes after dye injection. The fluorescent signal remained visible for at least 4 hours after injection, and the fluorescent dye showed a partial ureteral injury that would not have been observed under standard laparoscopy.

Conclusions

UL‐766 is a preclinical fluorescent dye useful for the intraoperative identification of the ureters and ureteral injuries in an inflamed abdomen. With the acquisition of additional preclinical data, this novel dye can be a valuable tool during laparoscopic abdominal and pelvic surgeries. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Unexpected phenotype in a frameshift mutation of PTCH1
Authors: Beltrami Benedetta , Prada Elisabetta , Tolva Gianluca , Scuvera Giulietta , Silipigni Rosamaria , Graziani Daniela , Bulfamante Gaetano , Gervasini Cristina , Marchisio Paola , Milani Donatella
Published: October 2019

Background

Gorlin syndrome, also known as basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS), is a rare autosomal dominant genetic condition, characterized by the presence of multiple basal cell carcinomas at a young age, odontogenic keratocysts, skeletal anomalies, macrocephaly, and dysmorphisms. BCNS is mainly caused by mutations in PTCH1, an onco‐suppressor gene that maps at 9q22.3 region. A disease related to BCNS is the 9q22.3 microdeletion syndrome. This condition has an overlapping clinical phenotype with the BCNS, but it can present in addition: metopic craniosynostosis, overgrowth, obstructive hydrocephalus, developmental delay, intellectual disability, and seizures. This syndrome is caused by the deletion of a genomic region containing the PTCH1 and the FANCC.

Methods and Results

We report the case of an 11‐year‐old girl that came to our attention for overgrowth, dysmorphic features of the face, and craniosynostosis, but with a normal intellectual and motor development. At first we performed an array‐comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis. The analysis showed no copy number changes. Then, we performed the analysis of the PTCH1 by next‐generation sequencing. This analysis showed a heterozygous frameshift mutation.

Conclusion

This is the first case with a PTCH1 point mutation with a 9q22.3 microdeletion syndrome phenotype. This finding may strengthen the importance of the role of the PTCH1, especially regarding the metopic craniosynostosis.
Exome sequencing study of partial agenesis of the corpus callosum in men with developmental delay, epilepsy, and microcephaly
Authors: Meloche Jolyane , Brunet Vanessa , Gagnon Pierre‐Alexandre , Lavoie Marie‐Ève , Bouchard Jean‐Benoît , Nadaf Javad , Majewski Jacek , Morin Charles , Laprise Catherine
Published: October 2019

Background

This study reports the genetic features of four Caucasian males from the Saguenay‒Lac‐St‐Jean region affected by partial agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC) with hypotonia, epilepsy, developmental delay, microcephaly, hypoplasia, and autistic behavior.

Methods

We performed whole exome sequencing (WES) to identify new genes involved in this pathological phenotype. The regions of interest were subsequently sequenced for family members.

Results

Single‐nucleotide variations (SNVs) and insertions or deletions were detected in genes potentially implicated in brain defects observed in these patients. One patient did not have mutations in genes related to ACC, but carried a de novo pathogenic mutation in Mucolipin‐1 (MCOLN1) and was diagnosed with mucolipidosis type IV. Among the other probands, missense SNVs were observed in DCLK2 (Doublecortin Like Kinase 2), HERC2 (HECT And RLD Domain Containing E3 Ubiquitin Protein Ligase 2), and KCNH3 (Potassium channel, voltage‐gated, subfamily H, member 3). One patient also carried a non‐frameshift insertion in CACNA1A (Cav2.1(P/Q‐type) calcium channels).

Conclusion

Although no common genetic defect was observed in this study, we provide evidence for new avenues of investigation for ACC, such as molecular pathways involving HERC2, CACNA1A, KCNH3, and more importantly DCLK2. We also allowed to diagnose an individual with mucolipidosis type IV.
I never knew anyone who peed on themselves on purpose: Exploring adolescent and adult women's lay language and discourse about bladder health and function
Authors: Williams Beverly Rosa , Nodora Jesse , Newman Diane K. , Kane Low Lisa , James Aimee S. , Camenga Deepa R. , Hebert‐Beirne Jeni , Brady Sonya S. , Hardacker Cecilia T. , Smith Ariana L. , Cunningham Shayna D. , Burgio Kathryn L. , Prevention of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (PLUS) Research C
Published: October 2019

Aims

This analysis explored and characterized adolescent and adult women's lay language and discourse related to bladder health/function.

Methods

Forty‐four focus groups were conducted across seven United States research centers with 360 adolescents and adult women, organized by six age categories. Multilevel content analyses classified emergent themes. A transdisciplinary lens and inductive approach guided data interpretation. Interpretive insights were validated by a community engagement panel.

Results

A repertoire of bladder function terms emerged, including explicit functional terms, formal and polite euphemistic terms, and informal familiar terms, as well as cultural and regional metaphors and idioms. Terminology usage was historically grounded, developmental, and cumulative across the life course. Lay discourse was contextual and affectively valent, suggesting unspoken, commonly understood, situation‐based “rules” for talking about bladder function. Discourse appeared to be siloed within family and friendship circles. Adolescents and adult women often described, rather than named, bladder sensations or problems. Terminology for bladder issues tended to minimize severity and frequency, with medical language only relevant to extreme examples and not applicable to mild episodes.

Conclusions

A definitional discordance between medical and lay views of bladder problems was identified, signifying a need to clarify the meaning of medical terms for lay persons. Adolescents and adult women do not have or use standardized precise terminology for bladder health and function, relying instead on social convention and interpersonal context. Findings can be used to foster shared understandings between lay persons and health professionals, informing development of clinical, research, and public health initiatives to promote bladder health.
A modeling and computational study of the frustration index in signed networks
Authors: Aref Samin , Mason Andrew J. , Wilson Mark C.
Published: October 2019

Computing the frustration index of a signed graph is a key step toward solving problems in many fields including social networks, political science, physics, chemistry, and biology. The frustration index determines the distance of a network from a state of total structural balance. Although the definition of the frustration index goes back to the 1950s, its exact algorithmic computation, which is closely related to classic NP‐hard graph problems, has only become a focus in recent years. We develop three new binary linear programming models to compute the frustration index exactly and efficiently as the solution to a global optimization problem. Solving the models with prioritized branching and valid inequalities in Gurobi, we can compute the frustration index of real signed networks with over 15 000 edges in less than a minute on inexpensive hardware. We provide extensive performance analysis for both random and real signed networks and show that our models outperform all existing approaches by large factors. Based on resolution time, algorithm output, and effective branching factor we highlight the superiority of our models to both exact and heuristic methods in the literature.
Molecular mechanisms in chaperonopathies: clues to understanding the histopathological abnormalities and developing novel therapies
Authors: Macario Alberto JL , de Macario Everly Conway
Published: October 2019

Molecular chaperones, many of which are heat shock proteins (Hsps), are components of the chaperoning system and when defective can cause disease, the chaperonopathies. Chaperone‐gene variants cause genetic chaperonopathies, whereas in the acquired chaperonopathies the genes are normal, but their protein products are not, due to aberrant post‐transcriptional mechanisms, e.g. post‐translational modifications (PTMs). Since the chaperoning system is widespread in the body, chaperonopathies affect various tissues and organs, making these diseases of interest to a wide range of medical specialties. Genetic chaperonopathies are uncommon but the acquired ones are frequent, encompassing various types of cancer, and inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. The clinical picture of chaperonopathies is known. Much less is known on the impact that pathogenic mutations and PTMs have on the properties and functions of chaperone molecules. Elucidation of these molecular alterations is necessary for understanding the mechanisms underpinning the tissue and organ abnormalities occurring in patients. To illustrate this issue, we discuss structural–functional alterations caused by mutation in the chaperones CCT5 and HSPA9, and PTM effects on Hsp60. The data provide insights into what may happen when CCT5 and HSPA9 malfunction in patients, e.g. accumulation of cytotoxic protein aggregates with tissue destruction; or for Hsp60 with aberrant PTM, degradation and/or secretion of the chaperonin with mitochondrial damage. These and other possibilities are now open for investigation. © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Production of abrasive apricot kernel shell powder/boron nitride/polyester composites for cleaning of paint and corrosion on metal surfaces
Authors: Bahçe Erkan , Demirel Maruf H. , Köytepe Süleyman , Seçkin Turgay
Published: October 2019

In this study, the synthesis and characterization of abrasive polyester composite discs reinforced with apricot kernel shell (AKS) particles and hexagonal boron nitride (BN) were carried out as an alternative to the methods used to remove the surface corrosion from metallic surfaces. Polyester composites were obtained by unsaturated polyester resin as a matrix and AKSs (1%, 3%, 5% and 10% weight ratio) with 200 mesh and 1% BN as reinforcements. Kernel shells as a source of cellulose were used for increasing mechanical stability of abrasive composite discs. The structure and chemical properties of the obtained composites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, X‐ray spectrophotometer and SEM analysis. Their thermal properties were determined by differential thermal analysis, thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The synthesized polyester composites were molded into cylindrical discs and the corrosion and paint layer abrasive properties of these discs on different corroded metal surfaces were investigated. The hardness of the prepared abrasive polyester composites were also measured as mechanical properties. The hardness values of prepared abrasive discs were determined as 21.9, 22.1, 23.4, 24.5 and 25.9 ± 0.1 for pure PE, 1%, 3%, 5% and 10% composites, respectively. In addition, the cleaning ability of the abrasive composites on the metal surface was determined by measuring the surface roughness and the amount of peeling. As a result, it has been determined that the most suitable optimum conditions are achieved with a contribution of 10% AKS particles reinforced composite structure considering the features such as cleaned surface roughness, cleaning suitability and composite abrasion.
Preparation and properties of nano‐CaCO3/waste polyethylene/styrene‐butadiene‐styrene block polymer‐modified asphalt
Authors: Cheng Youliang , Han Hanzhi , Fang Changqing , Li Huan , Huang Zhigang , Su Jian
Published: October 2019

Polymer and nanomaterial modifiers can improve the performance of asphalt, and how to utilize the synergistic effect for modifying asphalt is still a problem. In this article, modified asphalt by waste polyethylene (WPE)/styrene‐butadiene‐styrene block polymer (SBS) in different proportions was prepared via a melting‐mixing method. Then, the WPE/SBS‐modified asphalt with an optimum modifier content was further modified by nano‐CaCO3into different shapes. The performances of modified asphalt were investigated by thermal gravimetry (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic shear rheological test (DSR), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and the morphology was observed by fluorescence microscopy. The results showed that the penetration of modified asphalt increased and the ductility decreased with the increase of WPE content. In addition, the softening point increased with the increase of WPE/SBS content. For the modified asphalt with 4 wt% composite modifier (40 wt% WPE+60 wt% SBS), the ductility was improved after adding nano‐CaCO3whiskers. However, the ductility slightly decreased when the content of nano‐CaCO3particles increased, resulting in negative effects. The WPE content in WPE/SBS modifier was optimized to 40 wt%, and the performance of modified asphalt can satisfy the requests in practical applications, thus providing an economical access to reuse packaging waste.
Preparation and characterization of reinforced poly (ε‐caprolactone) nanocomposites by cellulose nanowhiskers
Authors: Jafari Hafez , Shahrousvand Mohsen , Kaffashi Babak
Published: October 2019

In the present work, cellulose nanowhiskers (CNWs) were extracted from cellulose microfibers powder (CMP) and employed as reinforcement in poly‐(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL). The biocompatible and biodegradable PCL/CNW nanocomposites reinforced by CNWs in various weight percentages of 0, 0.1, 0.5, and 1 wt% were prepared via solvent casting. The morphology of cellulose microfibers and CNWs were evaluated via the optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The mechanical, thermal, and rheological properties of PCL/CNWs film nanocomposites were then investigated. The biodegradability and hydrophilicity of PCL/CNWs were improved by increasing the CNWs content. By adding higher loadings of CNWs, the nanocomposite samples showed higher tensile moduli because of the reinforcing effect of CNWs. The linear viscoelastic properties of PCL was not significantly changed with different loadings of CNWs.
Proteomic Analysis of the Lake Trout (Salvelinus namaycush) Liver Identifies Proteins from Evolutionarily Close and ‐Distant Fish Relatives
Authors: Dupree Emmalyn J. , Crimmins Bernard S. , Holsen Thomas M. , Darie Costel C.
Published: October 2019

Lake trout are used as bioindicators for toxics exposure in the Great Lakes ecosystem. Here the first lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) liver proteomics study is performed and searched against specific databases: (NCBI and UniProtKB) Salvelinus, Salmonidae, Actinopterygii, and Oncorhynchus mykiss, and the more distant relative, Danio rerio. In the biological replicate 1 (BR1), technical replicate 1 (TR1), (BR1TR1), a large number of lake trout liver proteins are not in the Salvelinus protein database, suggesting that lake trout liver proteins have homology to some proteins from the Salmonidae family and Actinopterygii class, and to Oncorhynchus mykiss and Danio rerio, two more highly studied fish. In the NCBI search, 4194 proteins are identified: 3069 proteins in Actinopterygii, 1617 in Salmonidae, 68 in Salvelinus, 568 in Oncorhynchus mykiss, and 946 in Danio rerio protein databases. Similar results are observed in the UniProtKB searches of BR1RT1, as well as in a technical replicate (BR1TR2), and then in a second biological replicate experiment, with two technical replicates (BR2TR1 and BR2TR2). This study opens the possibility of identifying evolutionary relationships (i.e., adaptive mutations) between various groups (i.e., zebrafish, rainbow trout, Salmonidae, Salvelinus and lake trout) through evolutionary proteomics. Data are available via the PRIDE Q2 (PXD011924).
Jejunal wall delivery of insulin via an ingestible capsule in anesthetized swine—A pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic study
Authors: Hashim Mir , Korupolu Radhika , Syed Baber , Horlen Kyle , Beraki Simret , Karamchedu Padma , Dhalla Arvinder K. , Ruffy Rodolphe , Imran Mir
Published: October 2019

Biotherapeutic agents must be administered parenterally to obtain therapeutic blood concentrations, lowering patient compliance and complicating care. An oral delivery platform (ODP) was developed to deliver drugs into the small intestinal wall. This proof‐of‐concept study was performed in 17 anesthetized, laparotomized swine. In 8 swine weighing 17.4 ± 1.2 kg (mean ± SEM), 20 IU of recombinant human insulin (RHI) were auto‐injected into the jejunal wall by placing the ODP inside the jejunum via an enterotomy. In 9 control swine weighing 17.0 ± 0.4 kg, 20 IU of RHI were injected subcutaneously. In both groups, under a 60‐80 mg/dL euglycemic glucose clamp, blood glucose was measured with a handheld glucometer and serum insulin was measured using ELISA, at 10‐minute intervals between −20 and +420 minutes after RHI delivery. The peak serum concentration of RHI was 517 ± 109 pmol/L in the ODP and 342 ± 50 pmol/L in the subcutaneous group (ns). The areas under the insulin concentration curves (83 ± 18 and 81 ± 10 nmol/L·min) were also similar in both groups. The mean time to peak serum concentration of insulin was 139 ± 42 minutes in the ODP and 227 ± 24 minutes in the subcutaneous group (ns). In conclusion, (a) The bioactivity of RHI was preserved after its delivery into the jejunal wall, (b) the intrajejunal route delivered insulin as rapidly and physiologically as the subcutaneous route, and (c) these pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of RHI after intrajejunal delivery suggest that drugs currently administered parenterally, such as basal insulin, could be successfully delivered into the proximal intestinal wall via the ingestible capsule.
The first skeletal record of the enigmatic Cretaceous sawfish genus Ptychotrygon (Chondrichthyes, Batoidea) from the Turonian of Morocco
Authors: Villalobos‐Segura Eduardo , Underwood Charlie J. , Ward David J.
Published: October 2019

A new fossil batoid (ray) Ptychotrygon rostrispatula sp. nov. is described from five exceptionally well‐preserved, three‐dimensional skeletal remains from the Turonian (Late Cretaceous) of Morocco. These specimens represent the first known skeletal remains for the genus Ptychotrygon and allow an almost complete description of the genus, providing a new insight into its phylogenetic relations and validating its taxonomic status as a member of the Sclerorhynchoidei. Mechanical preparation of the fossil remains revealed a relatively large batoid species (estimated total length above 1 m). Overall the morphology resembles that of sclerorhynchoids, with a robust hypertrophied rostrum that lacks enlarged rostral denticles with enlarged paddle‐like pectoral proximal elements (propterygium, mesopterygium and metapterygium). Never before seen details of the branchial skeleton are presented (large second hypobranchial without anterior process, which was probably fused to the basibranchial and no evidence of articulation with other branchial element). To assess the phylogenetic relations of these specimens within the sclerorhynchoids a parsimonious analysis using TNT and PAUP was performed. These analyses included Asflapristis cristadentis and Ptychotrygon rostrispatula sp. nov., which were used as representatives of Ptychotrygonidae, and also includes six other genera of sclerorhynchoids with relatively good skeletal remains. Both analyses recovered two monophyletic groups within sclerorhynchoids: the first contains Ischyrhiza, Onchopristis and Schizorhiza, and a second that includes Micropristis, Sclerorhynchus, Libanopristis and Ptychotrygonidae.
An examination of aspects of the probabilistic genotyping tool: Forensic Statistical Tool
Authors: Gasston Julia , Kruijver Maarten , Curran James M. , Bright Jo‐Anne , Pugh Simone , Buckleton John S.
Published: October 2019

The probabilistic genotyping software Forensic Statistical Tool implements a semi‐continuous model for DNA interpretation. This software omits any locus where the sum of the allele probabilities equals or exceeds .97. There has been criticism that this function is neither signaled by the software nor disclosed in publications. We investigate the effect of this function by creating a near clone of the model and applying it to five‐ and six‐allele loci for three‐person mixtures created in the expected population proportions. On average, the dropping of a locus is conservative for six‐peak loci and nonconservative for five‐peak loci. For persons of interest (POIs) with rare alleles, the dropping is usually conservative. For POIs with common alleles, the dropping of the locus is often nonconservative.

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Forensic Biology > Interpretation of Biological Evidence

Forensic Biology > Forensic DNA Technologies

Jurisprudence and Regulatory Oversight > Expert Evidence and Narrative
Municipal Housing Strategies for Refugees. Insights from Two Case Studies in Germany
Authors: Adam Francesca , Föbker Stefanie , Imani Daniela , Pfaffenbach Carmella , Weiss Günther , Wiegandt Claus-C.
Published: October 2019

The high number of asylum seekers who immigrated to Germany in 2015 and 2016 is supposed to be one of the key challenges for social cohesion in the years to come. While initially the most pressing tasks such as providing emergency shelters, housing supply and registration had to be managed, the long-term integration of recognised refugees is currently a major topic of discussion. The relocation of asylum seekers out of group accommodation into the housing market is said to be a central precondition for integration. Simultaneously, providing individual apartments for refugees has proven to be a tremendous challenge for many municipalities, especially in highly populated urban areas, since it puts additional pressure on tight housing markets. This competition for affordable housing can (further) evoke social tension in these regions. In this chapter, we will examine the local responses to these developments by comparing two case study areas in North Rhine-Westphalia. The selection of different local contexts provides a comparative insight into the structural conditions of integration processes in urban contexts of different sizes. We will explore different housing strategies for refugees in the large city of Cologne and in small and medium-sized towns in the district of Heinsberg. The chapter illustrates the difficulties of implementing these strategies and identifies several implementation gaps.
Diverging Perspectives on “Integration” in the Vocational Education System: Evidence from an East German Periphery
Authors: Glorius Birgit , Schondelmayer Anne-Christin
Published: October 2019

Taking the example of refugee integration into the vocational education system in Germany, this chapter addresses varying and sometimes contradictory practices of integration. The focus of our research was on the evaluation of the teaching and integration practices for young asylum seekers who are preparing to enter the labour market or vocational education after 1 year of intensified language learning in vocational schools in the State of Saxony, Germany. Analyzing the perspectives of teachers, school authorities and students, we found strongly diverging opinions on the effectiveness of the programme, which were embedded in varying definitions of the term “integration”. We found structural and framing features as decisive for the successful implementation of the educational programme, notably the question of competences in decisions that had to be taken in the evolving field of refugee schooling. Also, we found the field of vocational schools to be highly politicised in the context of regional development strategies, demographic decline and shortages of school staff. A further obstacle for the successful finalization of the young asylum seekers’ educational programme was the paradigm of temporariness, as the continuation of their education was contested by decisions in the asylum process.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Albers Max B. , Nordenström Erik , Wohlfahrt Johan , Bergenfelz Anders , Almquist Martin
Published: October 2019

Background

Prophylactic central neck dissection in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma is controversial. Sentinel node biopsy might be an adjunct to optimize surgical treatment for these patients. Earlier studies reported inconsistent detection rates and diagnostic value of this technique, and the role of sentinel lymph node biopsy in thyroid cancer needs to be established.

Patients and methods

During a single‐center prospective interventional study between 2010 and 2017, sentinel lymph node biopsy using 99mTc‐nanocolloidal albumin tracer was performed on patients undergoing thyroid surgery for suspected thyroid cancer by fine needle aspiration cytology. All eligible patients without clinical lymph node involvement were invited to participate. Central neck dissection was performed on all patients after the detection of sentinel lymph nodes.

Results

Ninety‐six patients participated in the study. The detection rates of the sentinel node were 67% and 45% by scintigraphy and intraoperative gamma probe, respectively. The detection rate was not associated with Bethesda score, malignancy, or presence of lymph node metastases. Sensitivity, negative predictive value, and accuracy were 80%, 97%, and 98%, respectively, for the sentinel node to represent the status of lymph node metastasis in the central neck compartment. The false negative rate was 20%.

Conclusion

Sentinel lymph node biopsy had a low detection rate and only moderate sensitivity in patients with suspected thyroid carcinoma and is not a useful adjunct to surgery in the context of current treatment concepts.
Crystallisation and zircon saturation of calc-alkaline tonalite from the Adamello Batholith at upper crustal conditions: an experimental study
Authors: Marxer Felix , Ulmer Peter
Published: October 2019

The understanding of the geochemical and petrophysical evolution of magmas forming intermediate calc-alkaline batholiths at shallow crustal levels critically depends on knowledge of the phase equilibria relations along the liquid line of descent. Here, we present experimental results for a tonalitic system at a pressure of 200 MPa and under water-saturated conditions. Melting experiments were performed at temperatures between 700 and 1000 °C in externally heated HCM pressure vessels, with oxygen fugacity controlled close to the Ni–NiO buffer equilibrium (NNO) employing an argon–methane mixture as pressure medium and Co–Pd redox sensors to verify fO2 conditions. Natural rock powder of a medium-K tonalite from the Adamello Batholith in Northern Italy served as experimental starting material. Based on compositional data of stable phases in the run products and images of entire run charges, mass balance calculations as well as image processing were performed to investigate the evolution of the crystal/melt ratio with respect to temperature. Furthermore, compositional trends of minerals as well as the liquid line of descent of residual melts were obtained. Orthopyroxene, clinopyroxene and plagioclase were identified as near-liquidus phases (below 990 °C). At 900 °C, amphibole joins the solid-phase assemblage at the expense of clinopyroxene, indicating the existence of a peritectic relationship. After an initial near-linear decrease with temperature, residual melt fractions exhibit a plateau of 45–55 vol. % between 750 and 850 °C, followed by a rapid decrease coinciding with quartz saturation at 725 °C. Compositions of residual liquids evolve along a typical calc-alkaline differentiation trend with decreasing temperature (increasing SiO2 and decreasing TiO2, Al2O3, CaO, MgO and FeO contents) and become peraluminous below 900 °C. Intermediate to acidic rocks from the Adamello follow the experimental liquid line of descent indicating that the observed compositional spread of the natural intermediate composition rock record can be explained by low-pressure magma differentiation and liquid extraction. Experimentally determined zircon saturation levels are at low temperatures distinctly lower compared to existing and often used Zr-saturation models, but fully consistent with observed and modelled Zr-evolution trends from the natural rock record of the Southern Adamello Batholith inferring that zircon saturation in these intermediate to felsic plutonic rocks occurred at 800–830 °C corresponding to a melt fraction of about 50 vol. %.
Periodontitis and vascular inflammatory biomarkers: an experimental in vivo study in rats
Authors: Leira Yago , Iglesias-Rey Ramón , Gómez-Lado Noemí , Aguiar Pablo , Sobrino Tomás , D’Aiuto Francesco , Castillo José , Blanco Juan , Campos Francisco
Published: October 2019

The objective of this preclinical in vivo study was to determine changes in vascular inflammatory biomarkers in systemic circulation after injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) fromPorphyromonas gingivalis(Pg) in rats. Experimental periodontitis was induced by injections ofPg-LPS. Gingival soft and hard tissues changes were analysed by means of magnetic resonance imaging and micro computed tomography. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, pentraxin (PTX) 3, and soluble fragment of tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (sTWEAK) were determined at baseline and 24 h, 7, 14, and 21 days after periodontal induction. Significant periodontal inflammation and alveolar bone loss were evident at the end of periodontal induction. Experimental periodontitis posed an acute systemic inflammatory response with increased serum levels of IL-6 and PTX3 at 24 h post-induction, followed by a significant overexpression of sTWEAK at 7 days. This inflammatory state was maintained until the end of the experiment (21 days). As expected, IL-10 serum levels were significantly lower during the follow-up compared to baseline concentrations. In the present animal model, experimental periodontitis is associated with increased systemic inflammation. Further studies are needed to confirm whether PTX3 and sTWEAK could be useful biomarkers to investigate potential mechanisms underlying the relationship between periodontitis and atherosclerotic vascular diseases.
Quantifying Subresolution 3D Morphology of Bone with Clinical Computed Tomography
Authors: Karhula S. S. , Finnilä M. A. J. , Rytky S. J. O. , Cooper D. M. , Thevenot J. , Valkealahti M. , Pritzker K. P. H. , Haapea M. , Joukainen A. , Lehenkari P. , Kröger H. , Korhonen R. K. , Nieminen H. J. , Saarakkala S.
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study was to quantify sub-resolution trabecular bone morphometrics, which are also related to osteoarthritis (OA), from clinical resolution cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Samples (n = 53) were harvested from human tibiae (N = 4) and femora (N = 7). Grey-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) texture and histogram-based parameters were calculated from CBCT imaged trabecular bone data, and compared with the morphometric parameters quantified from micro-computed tomography. As a reference for OA severity, histological sections were subjected to OARSI histopathological grading. GLCM and histogram parameters were correlated to bone morphometrics and OARSI individually. Furthermore, a statistical model of combined GLCM/histogram parameters was generated to estimate the bone morphometrics. Several individual histogram and GLCM parameters had strong associations with various bone morphometrics (|r| > 0.7). The most prominent correlation was observed between the histogram mean and bone volume fraction (r = 0.907). The statistical model combining GLCM and histogram-parameters resulted in even better association with bone volume fraction determined from CBCT data (adjusted R2 change = 0.047). Histopathology showed mainly moderate associations with bone morphometrics (|r| > 0.4). In conclusion, we demonstrated that GLCM- and histogram-based parameters from CBCT imaged trabecular bone (ex vivo) are associated with sub-resolution morphometrics. Our results suggest that sub-resolution morphometrics can be estimated from clinical CBCT images, associations becoming even stronger when combining histogram and GLCM-based parameters.