bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bismuth Coordination Polymers with 2,4,6‐Pyridine Tricarboxylic Acid: High‐Throughput Investigations, Crystal Structures and Luminescence Properties
Authors: Rhauderwiek Timo , dos Santos Cunha César , Terraschke Huayna , Stock Norbert
Published: May 2018

Four new coordination polymers (CPs) were obtained under hydrothermal reaction conditions using 2,4,6‐pyridinetricarboxylic acid (H3PTC) and Bi(NO3)3·5H2O. The systematic high‐throughput investigation of the system Bi3+/H3PTC/NaOH/HNO3/H2O led to the compounds [Bi(PTC)(H2O)2] (1), (H3O)[Bi2(PTC)(HPTC)2(H2O)2] (2), α‐[Bi(PTC)] (3) and β‐[Bi(PTC)] (4), which were structurally characterised by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Compounds 1 and 2 crystallise in 2D layered structures, whereas 3 and 4 form 3D coordination networks. Employing the nomenclature proposed by Cheetham et al. 1 and 2 are classified as I1O1 (mixed inorganic–organic layers), 3 as I0O3 (3D coordination polymers) and 4 as I1O2 (mixed inorganic–organic 3D framework). In all cases the nitrogen atom of the linker is coordinated to the Bi3+ ion, which therefore acts as a tridentate pincer‐type ligand. All title compounds were obtained as phase‐pure products employing conventional or microwave‐assisted heating, but the reproducibility of the synthesis depends on reactor size and material. In addition, the luminescence properties of 1 and 2 were studied resulting in a yellow and blue–green luminescence under UV light with emission maxima at 570 nm (λex = 343 nm) and 483 nm (λex = 347 nm) for 1 and 2, respectively. The differences in the spectroscopic properties could be assigned to the distinct coordination and chemical environments of the Bi3+ ions within these compounds.
A General Approach to Various Five‐ and Six‐Membered gem‐Difluoroheterocycles: Application to the Synthesis of Fluorinated Analogues of Sedamine
Authors: Hariss Layal , Ibrahim Rima , Jaber Nada , Roisnel Thierry , Grée René , Hachem Ali
Published: May 2018

A new synthesis of a group of O‐, S‐ and N‐heterocycles with a gem‐difluoro group in position β to the heteroatom has been developed, starting from easily accessible gem‐difluoro propargylic derivatives. This tandem process involves a base‐induced isomerization followed by an intramolecular 1,4 hetero‐Michael addition. This methodology is suitable for the preparation of five‐ and six‐membered heterocycles and it has been successfully applied to the synthesis of the 3,3‐difluoro analogues of (±)‐sedamine III, (±)‐allosedamine V, (±)‐norallosedamine II, and (±)‐norsedamine IV.
Development of Impedimetric Immunosensors for the Diagnosis of DOCK8 and STAT3 Related Hyper‐Immunoglobulin E Syndrome
Authors: Eissa Shimaa , Abdulkarim Haya , Hawalta Ibrahim , Jacob Minnie , Dasouki Majed , Rahman Anas Abdel , Zourob Mohammed
Published: May 2018

Hyper Immunoglobulin E syndrome (HIES) is a rare inherited inborn error of primary immunodeficiency. HIES is characterized by high levels of serum immunoglobulin E (IgE), severe eczema, which overlap with atopic dermatitis, as well as lung infections and even death. HIESs are genetically inherited by heterozygous or homozygous mutations in signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) or Dedicator of cytokinesis 8 (DOCK8) genes, in autosomal dominant and recessive forms, respectively. Therefore, the early detection of DOCK8 and STAT3 protein levels in humans would facilitate the early diagnosis of these disorders and thus, help in the disease management. Here, we present the development of immunosensors for the detection of DOCK8 and STAT3 using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in a label‐free format. The immunosensors were fabricated by the covalent attachment of specific antibodies for DOCK8 and STAT3 on gold electrodes via cysteamine/phenylene diisothiocyanate linkers. The detection was achieved by monitoring the change in the charge transfer resistance (Rct) of ferro/ferricyanide redox couple upon binding of the proteins to the immunosensor surface. These biosensors enabled the detection of DOCK8 and STAT3 levels with low detection limits of 1.2 and 9.0 pg/ml, respectively. The immunosensor was also applied for the detection of DOCK8 in human serum samples showing high recovery percentages which indicates great promise of this method for early diagnosis of HIES in newborn infants.
Preparative free‐flow electrophoresis, a versatile technology complementing gradient centrifugation in the isolation of highly purified cell organelles
Authors: Islinger Markus , Wildgruber Robert , Völkl Alfred
Published: May 2018

Free‐flow electrophoresis (FFE) exploits differences in the overall charge of bio‐particles separating cells, organelles, macromolecules, ions, etc. according to their distinct electrophoretic mobility and isoelectric point (pI) values. Indeed, around a neutral pH organelles usually exhibit a negative surface charge, migrating in an electric field from the cathode toward the anode. Since its introduction more than five decades ago by Barrollier et al., Z. Naturforsch. 1958, 13b, 745–755 and Hannig, Z. Anal. Chem. 1961, 181, 244–254, FFE has become an established analytical and preparative separation method for the isolation of a variety of organelles. Particularly, in sophisticated, multistep separating processes to separate subpopulations of organelles, it has gained, meanwhile, a position as a versatile technology and essential element. Relying on the distinct surface charges instead of buoyant densities of cell organelles, the FFE technology is best supporting a preceding centrifugation‐based fractionation of subcellular compartments in the second dimension. In the following review, the two‐step isolation and purification of subpopulations of classic animal and plant cell organelles will be mainly exemplified.
Assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon exposure, lung function, systemic inflammation, and genotoxicity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from firefighters before and after a work shift
Authors: Andersen Maria Helena Guerra , Saber Anne Thoustrup , Pedersen Julie Elbæk , Pedersen Peter Bøgh , Clausen Per Axel , Løhr Mille , Kermanizadeh Ali , Loft Steffen , Ebbehøj Niels E , Hansen Åse Marie , Kalevi Koponen Ismo , Nørskov Eva‐Carina , Vogel Ulla , Møller Peter
Published: May 2018

Firefighting is regarded as possibly carcinogenic, although there are few mechanistic studies on genotoxicity in humans. We investigated exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), lung function, systemic inflammation and genotoxicity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of 22 professional firefighters before and after a 24‐h work shift. Exposure was assessed by measurements of particulate matter (PM), PAH levels on skin, urinary 1‐hydroxypyrene (1‐OHP) and self‐reported participation in fire extinguishing activities. PM measurements indicated that use of personal protective equipment (PPE) effectively prevented inhalation exposure, but exposure to PM occurred when the environment was perceived as safe and the self‐contained breathing apparatuses were removed. The level of PAH on skin and urinary 1‐OHP concentration were similar before and after the work shift, irrespective of self‐reported participation in fire extinction activities. Post‐shift, the subjects had reduced levels of oxidatively damaged DNA in PBMC, and increased plasma concentration of vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM‐1). The subjects reporting participation in fire extinction activities during the work shift had a slightly decreased lung function, increased plasma concentration of VCAM‐1, and reduced levels of oxidatively damaged DNA in PBMC. Our results suggest that the firefighters were not exposed to PM while using PPE, but exposure occurred when PPE was not used. The work shift was not associated with increased levels of genotoxicity. Increased levels of VCAM‐1 in plasma were observed. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 59:539–548, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Zinc toxicity to Daphnia magna in a two-species microcosm can be predicted from single-species test data: The effects of phosphorus supply and pH
Authors: Fettweis Andreas , De Schamphelaere Karel , Smolders Erik
Published: May 2018

Ecological interactions and abiotic stress factors may significantly affect species sensitivities to toxicants, and these are not incorporated in standard single-species tests. The present study tests whether a model, calibrated solely on single-species data, can explain abiotic stress factors in a two-species microcosm, a test applied to the effects of nutritional stress (phosphorus [P] limitation) on zinc (Zn) toxicity to Daphnia magna. A population model was developed based on P- and Zn-dependent algal and daphnid growth. Two separate two-species (phytoplankton Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata and consumer D. magna) microcosm experiments with P × Zn factorial combinations and a different pH (7.3 and 7.8) were set up to validate the model. The 21-d daphnid population size was considerably reduced by increased Zn and by decreased P supply, with a significant (p < 0.001) interaction between the 2 factors. The observed median effective concentration (EC50) of Zn on D. magna population size varied 12-fold (25 to 310 μg Zn L−1), with the lowest EC50 values found at the highest pH and high P treatments. For both experiments, Zn toxicity to D. magna was correctly predicted within a factor of 2 for EC50 values, and this is explained by the model through 1) a higher phytoplankton Zn sensitivity at higher pH, affecting food supply to D. magna, and 2) an increased algal P content at higher Zn, offering a nutritional benefit to daphnids that counteracts direct Zn toxicity under P limitation. The present study illustrates that indirect effects of Zn via producer–consumer relationships can outweigh the direct toxic effects and that models calibrated solely on single-species test data can help with interpreting these results in two-species systems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:2153–2164. © 2018 SETAC

Abstract

Graphical abstract showing how the use of a model, calibrated on single-species tests data only, can help in understanding the underlying mechanisms of the interaction between Zn and P in a two-species system (Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata and Daphnia magna).
Oregano powder substitution and shelf life in pork chorizo using Mexican oregano essential oil
Authors: Perales‐Jasso Yessica J. , Gamez‐Noyola Stephannie A. , Aranda‐Ruiz Juana , Hernandez‐Martinez Carlos A. , Gutierrez‐Soto Guadalupe , Luna‐Maldonado Alejandro I. , Silva‐Vazquez Ramon , Hume Michael E. , Mendez‐Zamora Gerardo
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of oregano essential oil (MOO) from Mexican oregano, Lippia berlandieri Schauer, as substitute for Mexican oregano powder (MOP) on pork chorizo physicochemical characteristics, texture, antioxidant capacity, aerobic bacteria colony counts, and sensory evaluation under storage conditions over 7 d. The treatments were T1 = chorizo + 0.1% MOP and T2 = chorizo + 0.1% MOO. The pH, redness (a*), yellowness (b*), Chroma, and browning index (BI) were affected by treatments and storage time. T2 presented lower pH (5.27) at d 1 than at d 7 (5.34), as well as a* (23.13 vs. 25.27), b* (14.85 vs. 17.45), Chroma (28.60 vs. 30.79), and BI (103.42 vs. 109.82) were higher at d 7. At d 1, hardness (1392.75 vs. 872.29 g), springiness (0.3675 vs. 0.3351 mm), gumminess (491.45 vs. 284.38 g), and chewiness (180.25 vs. 95.43 g mm) were higher in T1 than T2. Aerobic bacteria counts (T1—4.19 vs. 4.73 log CFU/g and T2—4.37 vs. 4.50 log CFU/g, respectively) increased within each treatment at d 7. Antioxidant capacity was not affected (26.48 and 27.42%). Oregano odor was different at 7 d with T2 having a stronger odor (5.70) than T1 with oregano powder (4.63). Mexican oregano essential oil in the pork chorizo formulation improved pH, color parameters, textural profile, and sensory characteristics.
Cognitive and functional progression in Alzheimer disease: A prediction model of latent classes
Authors: Haaksma Miriam L. , Calderón-Larrañaga Amaia , Olde Rikkert Marcel G.M. , Melis René J.F. , Leoutsakos Jeannie‐Marie S.
Published: May 2018

Objective

We sought to replicate a previously published prediction model for progression, developed in the Cache County Dementia Progression Study, using a clinical cohort from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center.

Methods

We included 1120 incident Alzheimer disease (AD) cases with at least one assessment after diagnosis, originating from 31 AD centres from the United States. Trajectories of the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Clinical Dementia Rating sum of boxes (CDR‐sb) were modelled jointly over time using parallel‐process growth mixture models in order to identify latent classes of trajectories. Bias‐corrected multinomial logistic regression was used to identify baseline predictors of class membership and compare these with the predictors found in the Cache County Dementia Progression Study.

Results

The best‐fitting model contained 3 classes: Class 1 was the largest (63%) and showed the slowest progression on both MMSE and CDR‐sb; classes 2 (22%) and 3 (15%) showed moderate and rapid worsening, respectively. Significant predictors of membership in classes 2 and 3, relative to class 1, were worse baseline MMSE and CDR‐sb, higher education, and lack of hypertension. Combining all previously mentioned predictors yielded areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.70 and 0.75 for classes 2 and 3, respectively, relative to class 1.

Conclusions

Our replication study confirmed that it is possible to predict trajectories of progression in AD with relatively good accuracy. The class distribution was comparable with that of the original study, with most individuals being members of a class with stable or slow progression. This is important for informing newly diagnosed AD patients and their caregivers.
Preoperative predictors of occult nodal disease in cT1N0 oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma: Review of 2623 cases
Authors: Zhan Kevin Y. , Morgan Patrick F. , Neskey David M. , Kim Joanne J. , Huang Andrew T. , Garrett‐Mayer Elizabeth , Day Terry A.
Published: May 2018

Background

Nodal disease predicts survival in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Currently, no large studies on predictors of occult nodal disease in cT1N0 oral cavity SCC exist.

Methods

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) review for cT1N0 oral cavity SCC with surgical resection and elective neck dissection (END).

Results

The number of patients found with occult nodal disease was 2623 (15.1%). In multivariable regression, female sex and tumor differentiation predict occult nodal disease. Occult nodal disease incidence was 5.9% in well‐differentiated tumors, 17.4% in moderately differentiated tumors, and 28.5% in poorly differentiated tumor (P < .001). Women with oral tongue tumors had higher occult nodal disease (19.1%) than men (12%; P = .001). Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for occult nodal disease in women were: aOR 1.26; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01‐1.59; P = .045; moderately differentiated aOR 3.52; 95% CI 2.47‐5.01; P < .001; and poorly differentiated aOR 6.25; 95% CI 4.17‐9.38; P < .001.

Conclusion

Sex and tumor differentiation significantly predict occult nodal disease. END is recommended for all moderately and poorly differentiated cT1N0 oral cavity SCC, regardless of the depth of invasion. One can consider not performing END in well‐differentiated tumors.
Isotope hydrology of a tropical coffee agroforestry watershed: Seasonal and event‐based analyses
Authors: Welsh Kristen , Boll Jan , Sánchez‐Murillo Ricardo , Roupsard Olivier
Published: May 2018

Stable isotope variations are extremely useful for flow partitioning within the hydrologic cycle but remain poorly understood throughout the tropics, particularly in watersheds with rapidly infiltrating soils, such as Andisols in Central America. This study examines the fluctuations of stable isotope ratios (δ18O and δ2H) in the hydrologic components of a tropical coffee agroforestry watershed (~1 km2) with Andisol soils in Costa Rica. Samples were collected in precipitation, groundwater, springs, and stream water over 2 years. The local meteoric water line for the study site was δ2H = 8.5 δ18O + 18.02 (r2 = 0.97, n = 198). The isotope ratios in precipitation exhibited an enriched trend during the dry season and a notable depletion at the beginning of the wet season. The δ18O compositions in groundwater (average = −6.4‰, σ = 0.7) and stream water (average = −6.7‰, σ = 0.6) were relatively stable over time, and both components exhibited more enriched values in 2013, which was the drier year. No strong correlation was observed between the isotope ratios and the precipitation amount at the event or daily time‐step, but a correlation was observed on a monthly scale. Stream water and base flow hydrograph separations based on isotope end‐member estimations showed that pre‐event water originating from base flow was prevalent. However, isotope data indicate that event water originating from springs appears to have been the primary driver of initial rises in stream flow and peak flows. These results indicate that isotope sampling improves the understanding of water balance components, even in a tropical humid location, where significant variations in rainfall challenge current modelling efforts. Further research using fine‐scale hydrometric and isotopic data would enhance understanding the processes driving spring flow generation in watersheds.
Evaluating the functionality and streamflow impacts of explicitly modelling forest–snow interactions and canopy gaps in a distributed hydrologic model
Authors: Sun Ning , Wigmosta Mark , Zhou Tian , Lundquist Jessica , Dickerson‐Lange Susan , Cristea Nicoleta
Published: May 2018

Many plot‐scale studies have shown that snow‐cover dynamics in forest gaps are distinctly different from those in open and continuously forested areas, and forest gaps have the potential to alter the magnitude and timing of snowmelt. However, the watershed‐level impacts of canopy gap treatment on streamflows are largely unknown. Here, we present the first research that explicitly assesses the impact of canopy gaps on seasonal streamflows and particularly late‐season low flows at the watershed scale. To explicitly model forest–snow interactions in canopy gaps, we made major enhancements to a widely used distributed hydrologic model, distributed hydrology soil vegetation model, with a canopy gap component that represents physical processes of snowpack evolution in the forest gap separately from the surrounding forest on the subgrid scale (within a grid typically 10–150 m). The model predicted snow water equivalent using the enhanced distributed hydrology soil vegetation model showed good agreement (R2 > 0.9) with subhourly snow water equivalent measurements collected from open, forested, and canopy gap sites in Idaho, USA. Compared with the original model that does not account for interactions between gaps and surrounding forest, the enhanced model predicted notably later melt in small‐ to medium‐size canopy gaps (the ratio of gap radius (r) to canopy height (h) ≤ 1.2), and snow melt rates exhibited great sensitivity to changing gap size in medium‐size gaps (0.5 ≤ r/h ≤ 1.2). We demonstrated the watershed‐scale implications of canopy gaps on streamflow in the snow‐dominated Chiwawa watershed, WA, USA. With 24% of the watershed drainage area (about 446 km2) converted to gaps of 60 m diameter, the mean annual 7‐day low flow was increased by 19.4% (i.e., 0.37 m3/s), and the mean monthly 7‐day low flows were increased by 13.5% (i.e., 0.26 m3/s) to 40% (i.e., 1.76 m3/s) from late summer through fall. Lastly, in practical implementation of canopy gaps with the same total gap areas, a greater number of distributed small gaps can have greater potential for longer snow retention than a smaller number of large gaps.
Factors controlling seasonal groundwater and solute flux from snow‐dominated basins
Authors: Carroll Rosemary W. H. , Bearup Lindsay A. , Brown Wendy , Dong Wenming , Bill Markus , Willlams Kenneth H.
Published: May 2018

Critical zone influences on hydrologic partitioning, subsurface flow paths and reactions along these flow paths dictate the timing and magnitude of groundwater and solute flux to streams. To isolate first‐order controls on seasonal streamflow generation within highly heterogeneous, snow‐dominated basins of the Colorado River, we employ a multivariate statistical approach of end‐member mixing analysis using a suite of daily chemical and isotopic observations. Mixing models are developed across 11 nested basins (0.4 to 85 km2) spanning a gradient of climatological, physical, and geological characteristics. Hydrograph separation using rain, snow, and groundwater as end‐members indicates that seasonal contributions of groundwater to streams is significant. Mean annual groundwater flux ranges from 12% to 33% whereas maximum groundwater contributions of 17% to 50% occur during baseflow. The direct relationship between snow water equivalent and groundwater flux to streams is scale dependent with a trend toward self‐similarity when basins exceed 5.5 km2. We find groundwater recharge increases in basins of high relief and within the upper subalpine where maximum snow accumulation is coincident with reduced conifer cover and lower canopy densities. The mixing model developed for the furthest downstream site did not transfer to upstream basins. The resulting error in predicted stream concentrations points toward weathering reactions as a function of source rock and seasonal shifts in flow path. Additionally, the potential for microbial sulfate reduction in floodplain sediments along a low‐gradient, meandering portion of the river is sufficient to modify hillslope contributions and alter mixing ratios in the analysis. Soil flushing in response to snowmelt is not included as an end‐member but is identified as an important mechanism for release of solutes from these mountainous watersheds. End‐member mixing analysis used in combination with high‐frequency observations reveals important aspects of catchment hydrodynamics across scale.
Bulk density effects on soil hydrologic and thermal characteristics: A numerical investigation
Authors: Kojima Yuki , Heitman Joshua L. , Sakai Masaru , Kato Chihiro , Horton Robert
Published: May 2018

Soil bulk density (ρb) is commonly treated as static in studies of land surface dynamics. Magnitudes of errors associated with this assumption are largely unknown. Our objectives were to (a) quantify ρb effects on soil hydrologic and thermal properties and (b) evaluate effects of ρb on surface energy balance and heat and water transfer. We evaluated 6 soil properties, volumetric heat capacity, thermal conductivity, soil thermal diffusivity, water retention characteristics, hydraulic conductivity, and vapour diffusivity, over a range of ρb, using a combination of 6 models. Thermal conductivity, water retention, hydraulic conductivity, and vapour diffusivity were most sensitive to ρb, each changing by fractions greater than the associated fractional changes in ρb. A 10% change in ρb led to 10–11% change in thermal conductivity, 6–11% change in saturated and residual water content, 49–54% change in saturated hydraulic conductivity, and 80% change in vapour diffusivity. Subsequently, 3 field seasons were simulated with a numerical model (HYDRUS‐1D) for a range of ρb values. When ρb increased 25% (from 1.2 to 1.5 Mg m−3), soil temperature variation decreased by 2.1 °C in shallow layers and increased by 1 °C in subsurface layers. Surface water content differed by 0.02 m3 m−3 for various ρb values during drying events but differences mostly disappeared in the subsurface. Matric potential varied by >100 m of water. Surface energy balance showed clear trends with ρb. Latent heat flux decreased 6%, sensible heat flux increased 9%, and magnitude of ground heat flux varied by 18% (with a 25% ρb increase). Transient ρb impacted surface conditions and fluxes, and clearly, it warrants consideration in field and modelling investigations.
Whole exome sequencing identifies PLEC, EXO5 and DNAH7 as novel susceptibility genes in testicular cancer
Authors: Paumard‐Hernández Beatriz , Calvete Oriol , Inglada Pérez Lucia , Tejero Héctor , Al‐Shahrour Fátima , Pita Guillermo , Barroso Alicia , Carlos Triviño Juan , Urioste Miguel , Valverde Claudia , González Billalabeitia Enrique , Quiroga Vanesa , Francisco Rodríguez Moreno Juan , Fernández Aramburo Antonio , López Cristina , Maroto Pablo , Sastre Javier , José Juan Fita María , Duran Ignacio , Lorenzo‐Lorenzo Isabel , Iranzo Patricia , García del Muro Xavier , Ros Silverio , Zambrana Francisco , María Autran Ana , Benítez Javier
Published: May 2018

Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are a clinically and pathologically heterogeneous disease, and little is known of its genetic basis. Only low susceptibility risk loci have been identified for both sporadic and familial cases. Therefore, we tried to identify new susceptibility genes responsible for familial testicular cancer that may contribute to increasing our knowledge about the genetic basis of the disease. Nineteen Spanish families with at least two affected individuals with TGCT were selected. WES was performed on those individuals using an Illumina Hiseq2000 sequencing platform. Data were analyzed under a monogenic and polygenic model of inheritance, and candidate variants were evaluated in a case–control association study performed on 391 Spanish sporadic cases and 1,170 healthy Spanish controls. Results were replicated in a second series consisting of 101 TGCTs from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TGCA) and 27,000 controls from the Exome Aggregation Consortium (ExAC) database. Logistic regression was carried out to analyze the association strength (risk) of candidate variants obtained among cases and controls in different populations. Despite the sample size, we detected a significant earlier age of onset in familial TGCT (28y) than sporadic cases (33y), using a Mann–Whitney U test. We identified significant variants in the comparative study of TGCT cases (391) versus controls (almost 1,170), and three of them [PLEC (OR = 6.28, p = 6.42 × 10−23) (p.Arg2016Trp), EXO5 (OR = 3.37, p = 4.82 × 10−09) (p.Arg344AlafsTer10) and DNAH7 (OR = 1.64, p = 0.048)] were replicated as potential candidates that may contribute to explaining the genetic basis of TGCT.
A comparison of prompts and feedback for promoting handwashing in university restrooms
Authors: Choi Boyoon , Lee Kyehoon , Moon Kwansu , Oah Shezeen
Published: May 2018

We compared the effects of prompts versus feedback on handwashing behavior across six restrooms at a large university. We evaluated the effects using two separate multiple baseline designs across three men's and three women's restrooms. Results indicate that feedback was more effective for increasing handwashing.
Shaping complex functional communication responses
Authors: Ghaemmaghami Mahshid , Hanley Gregory P. , Jessel Joshua , Landa Robin
Published: May 2018

Response efficiency plays an important role in the initial success of functional communication training (FCT). Although low‐effort functional communication responses (FCRs) have been shown to be most effective in replacing problem behavior; more developmentally advanced FCRs are favored later in the treatment process. Attempts to teach these more complex FCRs, however, often lead to the resurgence of problem behavior. In this study, we provide a detailed description of an effective shaping process applied within a changing criterion design to develop complex FCRs from simple FCRs without resurgence of problem behavior. Four children with various language and intellectual abilities participated in this study. A practical shaping procedure, suitable for typical teaching contexts, is described for two participants in Experiment 1. The necessity and efficacy of the shaping process are demonstrated with the participants in Experiment 2. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
miR‐130 aggravates acute myocardial infarction‐induced myocardial injury by targeting PPAR‐γ
Authors: Chu Xianglin , Wang Yiqing , Pang Liewen , Huang Jiechun , Sun Xiaotian , Chen Xiaofeng
Published: May 2018

Cardiac remodeling is a common pathophysiological change associated with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Recent evidence indicates that microRNAs are strong posttranscriptional regulators which play an important role in regulating the microenvironment of myocardial tissue after AMI. In this study, we sought to explore the potential role and underlying mechanism of miR‐130 in AMI. H9c2 cells were cultured under hypoxic conditions to simulate myocardial infarction. The influence of aberrantly expressed miR‐130 on H9c2 cells under hypoxia was also estimated with RT‐PCR, western blot and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Using bioinformatics methods, of miR‐130 target genes were verified with luciferase reporter assay. Then, the effects of miR‐130 on AMI were identified in an induced myocardial injury model in rats. The results show that miR‐130 downregulation remarkably decreased hypoxia‐induced inflammation and fibrosis related protein expression in H9c2 cells and reversed hypoxia‐induced peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPAR‐γ) inhibition. A bifluorescein reporter assay further confirmed that PPAR‐γ was a target gene of miR‐130. This study verified that PPAR‐γ has a cardioprotective effect by inhibiting NFκB‐mediated inflammation and TGF‐β1‐mediated fibrosis. In vivo experiments confirmed that downregulation of miR‐130 expression promotes PPAR‐γ‐mediated cardioprotective effects by suppressing inflammation and myocardial fibrosis. Taken together, these findings suggest that miR‐130 knockdown alleviates infarction‐induced myocardial injury by promoting PPAR‐γ expression.
Decreased hepatic response to glucagon, adrenergic agonists, and cAMP in glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis, and glycolysis in tumor‐bearing rats
Authors: Biazi Giuliana R. , Frasson Isabele G. , Miksza Daniele R. , de Morais Hely , de Fatima Silva Flaviane , Bertolini Gisele L. , de Souza Helenir M.
Published: May 2018

The response to glucagon and adrenaline in cancer cachexia is poorly known. The aim of this study was to investigate the response to glucagon, adrenergic agonists (α and β) and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) on glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis, and glycolysis in liver perfusion of Walker‐256 tumor‐bearing rats with advanced cachexia. Liver ATP content was also investigated. Rats without tumor (healthy) were used as controls. Agonists α (phenylephrine) and β (isoproterenol) adrenergic, instead of adrenaline, and cAMP, the second messenger of glucagon and isoproterenol, were used in an attempt to identify mechanisms involved in the responses. Glucagon (1 nM) stimulated glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis and inhibited glycolysis in the liver of healthy and tumor‐bearing rats, but their effects were lower in tumor‐bearing rats. Isoproterenol (20 µM) stimulated glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis, and glycolysis in healthy rats and had virtually no effect in tumor‐bearing rats. cAMP (9 µM) also stimulated glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis and inhibited glycolysis in healthy rats but had practically no effect in tumor‐bearing rats. Phenylephrine (2 µM) stimulated glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis and inhibited glycolysis and these effects were also lower in tumor‐bearing rats than in healthy. Liver ATP content was lower in tumor‐bearing rats. In conclusion, tumor‐bearing rats with advanced cachexia showed a decreased hepatic response to glucagon, adrenergic agonists (α and β), and cAMP in glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis, and glycolysis, which may be due to a reduced rate of regulatory enzyme phosphorylation caused by the low ATP levels in the liver.
Fenofibrate improves renal function by amelioration of NOX‐4, IL‐18, and p53 expression in an experimental model of diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Yaribeygi Habib , Mohammadi Mohammad T. , Rezaee Ramin , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: May 2018

Among several pathological mechanisms involved in diabetic nephropathy, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis play a prominent role. Fenofibrate, a peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α (PPAR‐α) agonist, has markedly improved oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, but there is no evidence about its effects on interleukin‐18 (IL‐18), NADPH oxidase type 4 (NOX‐4), and p53 expression in diabetic kidneys. The aim of this study was to evaluate possible effects of fenofibrate on improving the underlying mechanisms of diabetic nephropathy. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups namely, normal, normal treated, diabetic and diabetic treated (N = 6). Diabetes was induced by a single dose of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg; IV). Treated animals received fenofibrate for 8 weeks daily (80 mg/kg; po). All groups were sacrificed on day 56 and blood, urine, and tissue samples were collected. Serum levels of urea, uric acid, creatinine, and glucose were assessed. Then, serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrate, and glutathione (GLT), as well as the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes were measured. The expression level of NOX‐4, IL‐18, and p53 proteins at both mRNA and protein levels were evaluated. Diabetes significantly increased albuminuria, free radicals production, inflammation, and apoptosis in non‐treated rats while lowered antioxidant capacity. Moreover, diabetes caused histological damages leading to renal failure. Treatment with fenofibrate improved renal function by improving creatinine clearance (P = 0.01) and protein excretion (P = 0.001) and lowering plasma levels of blood urea nitrogen (P = 0.001), creatinine (P = 0.001), and uric acid (P = 0.01). Fenofibrate potentiated antioxidant defense systems by enhancing CAT (P = 0.01) and SOD (P = 0.01) enzymes activities and GLT content (P = 0.01), and reduced oxidative damage by lowering MDA generation (P = 0.02). Fenofibrate also attenuated the expression of NOX‐4 (P = 0.05), IL‐18 (P = 0.05), and p53 (P = 0.05) at both mRNA and protein levels. In conclusion, treatment with fenofibrate improved renal function by suppression of oxidative stress, attenuation of inflammation, and inhibition of apoptosis.
Comparison between capillary zone electrophoresis and capillary isoelectric focusing for thalassemia screening in southern China
Authors: Lu Feng , Dai Qingkai , Zhang Xia , Zhou Wenjie , Gao Ju , Zhang Ge
Published: May 2018

Background

Capillary isoelectric focusing is a type of capillary electrophoresis method newly used for thalassemia screening in China. Although the good performance has been proved by several studies, whether it can best suit the special needs of Chinese patients still requires further investigations.

Methods

Comparisons were made between capillary zone electrophoresis method applied on Sebia Minicap and capillary isoelectric focusing method applied on Helena V8 platform E‐class on identifying Hb E, Hb CS, Hb H, and Hb Barts for patients from southern China. And mixing studies were used to evaluate the lowest detection limits of these 2 kinds of capillary electrophoresis system.

Results

Helena V8 could not make a distinction between peaks of Hb E and peaks of Hb A2 as Sebia Minicap did. All chosen patients with Hb H and/or Hb Barts could be screened out by both 2 systems, but when analyzed by Helena V8, it was hard to distinguish Hb H from Hb Barts sometimes, while Sebia Minicap could make a clear distinction between peaks of Hb H and Hb Barts. Only a part of patients (3 of 8, 37.5%) with Hb CS could be screened out by Helena V8, while all patients could be identified by Sebia Minicap. Sebia Minicap had a lower detection limit for trace peaks than Helena V8 (near to 0.2% vs near to 0.6%).

Conclusions

Compared with capillary zone electrophoresis, capillary isoelectric focusing applied on Helena V8 maybe is not the first choice for hemoglobinopathy testing in southern China.
Retracted: Downregulated expression of microRNA‐329 inhibits apoptosis of nigral dopaminergic neurons by regulating CDKN2D expression via the FoxO3a signaling pathway in rats with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Liu Yuan‐Yuan , Zhang Yi‐Nan , Yang Qing‐Shan
Published: May 2018

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder due to the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. This study focuses on the effect of microRNA‐329 (miR‐329) on nigral dopaminergic neurons in a rat model of PD via the FoxO3a signaling pathway by binding to CDKN2D. Brain tissues from the substantia nigra were taken from the rats in two groups. TUNEL staining was used to observe tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)‐positive neurons. Nigral dopaminergic neurons were randomized into the normal, blank, negative control (NC), miR‐329 mimics, miR‐329 inhibitors, small interfering (siRNA)‐CDKN2D, and miR‐329 inhibitors + siRNA‐CDKN2D groups. Expressions of miR‐329, CDKN2D, FoxO3a, AKT, caspase‐3 and Bcl‐2 were determined using RT‐qPCR and western blotting. Apoptosis rate of nigral dopaminergic neurons in 7 groups was determined by flow cytometry. Compared with the blank and NC groups, the miR‐329 mimics group showed increased miR‐329 and caspase‐3 expressions as well as decreased expressions of CDKN2D, FoxO3a, AKT, and Bcl‐2, the siRNA‐CDKN2D group indicated enhanced expressions of caspase‐3 and declined expressions of CDKN2D, FoxO3a, AKT, and Bcl‐2, and the miR‐329 inhibitors group revealed decreased miR‐329 and caspase‐3 expressions and increased expressions of CDKN2D, FoxO3a, AKT, and Bcl‐2. The apoptosis rate of nigral dopaminergic neurons was significantly increased in the miR‐329 mimics and siRNA‐CDKN2D groups, but was decreased in the miR‐329 inhibitors group. Our data suggested that downregulated miR‐329 could inhibit apoptosis of nigral dopaminergic neurons in a rat model of PD by upregulating the expression of CDKN2D via the activation of the FoxO3a signaling pathway.
Inhibitory effects of tubeimoside I on synoviocytes and collagen‐induced arthritis in rats
Authors: Liu Zhenzhou , Zhou Lin , Ma Xuemei , Sun Shengnan , Qiu Haiwen , Li Hui , Xu Jiake , Liu Mei
Published: May 2018

Advancements in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) therapies have shown considerable progresses in the comprehension of disease. However, the development of new potential medicines with relative safety and efficacy continues and natural compounds have been considered as alternatives or complementary agents to gain immense attractions. Tubeimoside I (TBMS I), a main triterpenoid saponin isolated from Bolbostemma paniculatum, has been reported to possess antiviral and anticancer effects. However, its effect on RA remains unknown. Here, we investigated the therapeutic effect of TBMS I in collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) rats and explored its underlying mechanism. Our results showed that TBMS I treatment efficaciously ameliorated inflammation and joint destruction of rats with CIA. In vitro studies revealed that TBMS I suppressed the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines including IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNFα, and downregulated the expression of MMP‐9. In addition, TBMS I attenuated the destructive phenotypes of FLS of CIA rats including inhibiting proliferation and reducing migration rate. Further mechanistic analysis demonstrated that TBMS I suppressed TNFα‐induced activations of NF‐κB and MAPKs (p38 and JNK) leading to the downregulation of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, which was beneficial to the anti‐proliferative and anti‐migratory activities of FLS cells. Taken together, TBMS I has a great potential to be developed into a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of RA.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Vancomycin in Patients Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem‐Cell Transplantation
Authors: Okada Akira , Kariya Misato , Irie Kei , Okada Yutaka , Hiramoto Nobuhiro , Hashimoto Hisako , Kajioka Ryosuke , Maruyama Chika , Kasai Hidefumi , Hamori Mami , Nishimura Asako , Shibata Nobuhito , Fukushima Keizo , Sugioka Nobuyuki
Published: May 2018

Vancomycin is a commonly used antimicrobial agent for patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem‐cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT). Vancomycin has large inter‐ and intraindividual pharmacokinetic variability, which is mainly described by renal function; various studies have indicated that vancomycin pharmacokinetics are altered in special populations. However, little is known regarding vancomycin pharmacokinetics in patients undergoing allo‐HSCT. Therefore, we aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model of vancomycin in patients undergoing allo‐HSCT for effective and safe antimicrobial therapy and to develop a vancomycin dosing nomogram for a vancomycin optimal‐dosing strategy. In total, 285 observations from 95 patients undergoing allo‐HSCT were available. The final PopPK parameter estimates were central volume of distribution (V1, L), 39.2; clearance (L/h), 4.25; peripheral volume of distribution (V2, L), 56.1; and intercompartmental clearance (L/h), 1.95. The developed vancomycin model revealed an increase in V1 and V2 compared with those in the general population that consisted of patients with methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, serum creatinine was reduced because of an increase in the plasma fraction because of destruction of hematopoietic stem cells accompanying allo‐HSCT pretreatment, suggesting that the Cockcroft–Gault equation–based creatinine clearance value was overestimated. To our knowledge, this is the first PopPK study to develop a dosing nomogram for vancomycin in patients undergoing allo‐HSCT and was proven to be useful in optimizing the dosage and dosing interval of vancomycin in these patients. This strategy will provide more useful information for vancomycin therapy with an evidence‐based dose adjustment.
Biofilm and planktonic population distribution. Key aspects in carbonaceous anodes for microbial fuel cells
Authors: Mateo Sara , Cañizares Pablo , Rodrigo Manuel Andrés , Fernandez‐Morales Francisco Jesus
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

A comparison between different carbon‐based anodes used in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) has been carried out. Five different carbonaceous anodes were studied: carbon paper, carbon cloth, carbon foam 30 ppi, carbon foam 80 ppi and carbon felt.

RESULTS

The current density generated was higher for the MFCs with porous anodes compared with the flat ones, generating up to 14.5 A m−2. However, when the superficial surface was higher than 7500 m2 m−2 the performance did not increase further due to microorganisms transport and mass transfer limitations. Regarding the biochemical performance, a linear relationship between the generated current density and the coulombic efficiency was found. This relationship indicates selection of the electrogenic microbial population when the superficial surface increases. From Illumina MiSeq analyses, it was observed that Shewanella population in the biofilm was c. 14%, while its population was negligible in the planktonic culture. This population distribution can be explained by the low growth rate of the Shewanella.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that the main driving force of the carbonaceous materials performance is the ease of biofilm formation and subsequent population selection, but not on specific electronic properties of the carbon materials. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Firm Specific, Financial Development and Macroeconomic Determinants of Credit Union Lending
Authors: Amoah Benjamin , Aboagye Anthony Q.Q. , Bokpin Godfred A. , Ohene‐Asare Kwaku
Published: May 2018

Credit unions are set up to provide financial services, especially loans to members in a cooperative setting. The increasing competition from banking and non‐banking financial institutions implies credit unions must provide financial products and services with a clear understanding of factors that interact in this competitive industry. This paper evaluates the discretional and non‐discretional factors that tend to influence loans credit unions grant their members. From fixed effect model estimate, discretional factors such as size, profitability, management quality and solvency positively associate with credit union loan business whiles loan loss, net worth, non‐loan income and non‐loan activities associate negatively. Contractionary monetary policy creates an increase in loan demand in the credit union. Credit union managers should monitor developments taking place in the loanable funds market as increasing overhead cost of banks may imply a possible increase in loan demand leading to diseconomies of scale. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pigmentation and vision: Is GPR143 in control?
Authors: McKay Brian S.
Published: May 2018

Albinism, typically characterized by decreased melanin synthesis, is associated with significant visual deficits owing to developmental changes during neurosensory retina development. All albinism is caused by genetic mutations in a group of diverse genes including enzymes, transporters, G‐protein coupled receptor. Interestingly, these genes are not expressed in the neurosensory retina. Further, regardless of cause of albinism, all forms of albinism have the same retinal pathology, the extent of which is variable. In this review, we explore the possibility that this similarity in retinal phenotype is because all forms of albinism funnel through the same final common pathway. There are currently seven known genes linked to the seven forms of ocular cutaneous albinism. These types of albinism are the most common, and result in changes to all pigmented tissues (hair, skin, eyes). We will discuss the incidence and mechanism, where known, to develop a picture as to how the mutations cause albinism. Next, we will examine the one form of albinism which causes tissue‐specific pathology, ocular albinism, where the eye exhibits the retinal albinism phenotype despite near normal melanin synthesis. We will discuss a potential way to treat the disease and restore normal retinal development. Finally, we will briefly discuss the possibility that this same pathway may intersect with the most common cause of permanent vision loss in the elderly.
Apixaban decreases brain thrombin activity in a male mouse model of acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Bushi Doron , Chapman Joab , Wohl Anton , Stein Efrat Shavit , Feingold Ekaterina , Tanne David
Published: May 2018

Factor Xa (FXa) plays a critical role in the coagulation cascade by generation of thrombin. During focal ischemia thrombin levels increase in the brain tissue and cause neural damage. This study examined the hypothesis that administration of the FXa inhibitor, apixaban, following focal ischemic stroke may have therapeutic potential by decreasing brain thrombin activity and infarct volume. Male mice were divided into a treated groups that received different doses of apixaban (2, 20, 100 mg/kg administered I.P.) or saline (controls) immediately after blocking the middle cerebral artery (MCA). Thrombin activity was measured by a fluorescence assay on fresh coronal slices taken from the mice brains 24 hr following the MCA occlusion. Infarct volume was assessed using triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. A high dose of apixaban (100 mg/kg) significantly decreased thrombin activity levels in the ipsilateral hemisphere compared to the control group (Slice#5, p = .016; Slice#6, p = .016; Slice#7, p = .016; Slice#8, p = .036; by the nonparametric Mann–Whitney test). In addition, treatment with apixaban doses of both 100 mg/kg (32 ± 8% vs. 76 ± 7% in the treatment vs. control groups respectively; p = .005 by the nonparametric Mann–Whitney test) and 20 mg/kg (43 ± 7% vs. 76 ± 7% in the treatment vs. control groups respectively; p = .019 by the nonparametric Mann–Whitney test) decreased infarct volumes in areas surrounding the ischemic core (Slices #3 and #8). No brain hemorrhages were observed either in the treated or control groups. In summary, I.P. administration of high dose of apixaban immediately after MCA occlusion decreases brain thrombin activity and reduces infarct size.