bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proton-pump inhibitors elevate infection rate in cardiothoracic surgery patients by influencing PMN function in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Haas Carolin Maria , Maywald Martina , Goetzenich Andreas , Stoppe Christian , Rink Lothar
Published: January 2018

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) as pantoprazole are highly effective acid suppressive agents that belong to the world's most sold medication. However, they are pronounced to have immunosuppressive aspects. In our study, a negative influence of PPI on functions of polymorphonuclear cells in vitro like phagocytosis, oxidative burst, chemotaxis, and killing activity was shown, whereas formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NET)osis remained unaffected. Pantoprazole stimulation additionally reduced the production of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β in whole blood assay as well as the production of IL-2 and IFN-γ after whole blood stimulation with phytohaemagglutinin. Moreover, IFN-γ feedback mechanisms and signaling by STAT-1 was impaired by PPI. Cardiac surgery is accompanied by developing systemic inflammatory response syndrome with immunosuppressive aspects. We exhibited reduced oxidative burst analyzing cardiac surgery patients’ samples receiving or not receiving PPI. Furthermore, a higher rate of infections in patients receiving permanent PPI medication in retrospective analysis was uncovered. Patients undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass and regular PPI medication developed significant more infections retrospectively indicating a clinical impact of the immunosuppressive influence of PPI.
Properties and composition of soil organic matter in forest and arable soils of schleswig‐holstein. 2. litter and humic compounds in mineral horizons
Authors: Beyer Lothar
Published: January 2018

Organic matter composition is an important soil constituent with regard to function in soil ecosystems. In the recent paper litter and humic compound contents from about 100 mineral soil investigations are presented. The soil horizons are divided into four groups (Ah, Ap, M. Bh) in order to compare the SOM quality. Ap and Ah horizons showed a similar litter and humic compound distribution. Structural differences in the humic compound fractions were only visible with CPMAS 13C‐NMR. SOM‐containing non‐spodic subsoil horizons had a similar SOM quality as the A horizons. In the Bh horizons the humic compounds dominated with about 75% in the SOM. Alkylic and O‐alkylic carbon units are the main fractions. The combination of the solid‐state 13C‐NMR spectroscopy of whole soil samples and the wet chemical analysis of litter compounds allowed the estimation of the liner and chemically defined humic compound distribution in soil samples.
Influence of soil tillage on net N‐mineralization under sugar beet
Authors: Hoffmann Christa , Lindén Sara , Koch Heinz‐Josef
Published: January 2018

The shift from conventional to reduced soil tillage may affect physical and chemical soil properties and thereby net N‐mineralization. The aim of this study was to quantify the effect of soil tillage on net N‐mineralization at different depths. For this purpose the mineralization rate in the 0–10, 10–20, and 20–30 cm soil layer of conventionally and reduced tilled, N unfertilized plots under sugar beet was estimated with a field incubation method in 1993 and 1994. This method was compared to a balance method which takes into account N uptake of the crop and mineral N in the soil (0–90 cm).

The mineralization rate in 1993 and 1994 was determined by the increase of soil temperature in spring and the change of water content in summer. Although the amount of cumulated mineralized N did not differ. soil tillage affected the mineralization rate in the three soil layers depending on the distribution of organic matter. In the reduced tilled soil the mineralization rate in the upper soil layer (0–10 cm) was higher than in conventionally tilled soil, whereas in the layer 10–20 cm depth the mineralization rate of the conventional treatment exceeded that of the reduced tilled treatment. These differences in mineralization rate between conventional and reduced tillage were more distinct in 1994 than in 1993. Since the amount of N mineralized during the season and the period of highest N‐mineralization rate in the arable soil layer did not differ due to soil tillage the necessity of an increased N‐fertilization in reduced tillage systems cannot be concluded from these results. This is supported by results of the white sugar yield, which showed no interaction between tillage and N fertilization. Results of the field incubation method differed considerably from those of the balance method. This is primarily due to lacking parameters in the N balance.
Competitive adsorption of potassium and calcium on manganese oxide as studied with two ion‐selective electrodes
Authors: Wang F.L. , Yu T.R. , Huang P.M. , Krishnamurti G.S.R. , Li S.X. , Fairhurst D.
Published: January 2018

Competitive adsorption of K and Ca in a Mn oxide (birnessite) system was investigated using a double indicator electrode technique. The data showed that Ca was more competitive than K for adsorption sites on the Mn oxide. The preference of the oxide for Ca over K was partially attributed to the specific adsorption of Ca on the oxide. The extent of the preference did not consistently increase as the amount of K and Ca was continuously added to the system, possibly due to a decrease in the availability of the specific adsorption sites as these sites were increasingly occupied by the added Ca. The pK‐0.5pCa value for the system significantly increased when the solution to solid ratio was above 16 (mL g−1). Raising pH caused an increase in the solution K/Ca equivalent activity ratio and a linear decrease in the pK‐0.5pCa value, though the influence of the pH on the K/Ca equivalent activity ratio was not substantial until the pH was above 5.23. These results demonstrate an unique interaction of K and Ca on the surface of the Mn oxide, which cannot be solely interpreted by the classical ratio law. This study is of significance in the chemistry of K in soils which have properties of variable charge and specific adsorption of the competitive cations.
Schwefelausstattung ausgewählter europäischer Waldböden in Abhängigkeit vom atmogenen S‐Eintrag
Authors: Erkenberg Antje , Prietzel Jörg , Rehfuess Karl‐Eugen
Published: January 2018

Entlang eines Transekts von den Pyrenäen über Vogesen, Schwarzwald, Innerem Bayerischem Wald. Osterzgebirge und Isergebirge wurden in der montanen und hochmontanen Höhenstufe 10 repräsentative Waldböden aus Granit‐Hangschutt und 1 Boden aus Gneisschutt (Braunerden und Podsole) auf ihre Gehalte an Gesamt‐Schwefel und einzelnen S‐Bindungsformen analysiert. Damit sollte geprüft werden, ob der von Südwesten nach Nordosten zunehmende atmogene Schwefel‐Eintrag die Kennwerte der S‐Ausstattung beeinflußt.

Die Böden, welche nur geringe S‐Einträge empfangen, zeichnen sich i.d.R. durch niedrige Vorräte an anorganischem (insbesondere wasserlöslichem) Sulfat aus. Fast ihr gesamter Schwefelvorrat liegt in organischer Bindungsform vor. Mit steigender S‐Deposition nehmen die Gehalte an St und C‐S sowie die St/Corg−, die C‐S/Corg− und die SO4−Stot/Corg−Quotienten in den L‐, Of‐ und Oh‐Horizonten zu. Die Ach‐ und Ah‐Horizonte der Braunerden und Podsole mit verschiedener S‐Deposition unterscheiden sich bezüglich der S‐Parameter kaum voneinander. Dafür sind die B‐Horizonte der stärker belasteten, östlichen Böden auffallend reich an adsorbiertem und wasserlöslichem Sulfat und weisen hohe SO4−S/Fed−Quotienten sowie Ester‐SO4/Corg−Verhältnisse auf.
Simultaneous extraction and determination of trace amounts of diclofenac from whole blood using supported liquid membrane microextraction and fast Fourier transform voltammetry
Authors: Mofidi Zahra , Norouzi Parviz , Sajadian Masumeh , Ganjali Mohammad Reza
Published: January 2018

A novel, simple, and inexpensive analytical technique based on flat sheet supported liquid membrane microextraction coupled with fast Fourier transform stripping cyclic voltammetry on a reduced graphene oxide carbon paste electrode was used for the extraction and online determination of diclofenac in whole blood. First, diclofenac was extracted from blood samples using a polytetrafluoroethylene membrane impregnated with 1‐octanol and then into an acceptor solution, subsequently it was oxidized on a carbon paste electrode modified with reduced graphene oxide nanosheets. The optimal values of the key parameters influencing the method were as follows: scan rate, 6 V/s; stripping potential, 200 mV; stripping time, 5 s; pH of the sample solution, 5; pH of the acceptor solution,7; and extraction time, 240 min. The calibration curves were plotted for the whole blood samples and the method was found to have a good linearity within the range of 1–25 μg/mL with a determination coefficient of 0.99. The limits of detection and quantification were 0.1 and 1.0 μg/mL, respectively. Using this coupled method, the extraction and determination were merged into one step. Accordingly, the speed of detection for sensitive determination of diclofenac in complex samples, such as blood, increased considerably.
Randomized trial on extended versus modified right lobe grafts in living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Varghese Christi Titus , Bharathan Viju Kumar , Gopalakrishnan Unnikrishnan , Balakrishnan Dinesh , Menon Ramachandran N. , Sudheer Othiyil Vayoth , Dhar Puneet , Sudhindran Surendran
Published: January 2018

Despite advances in the practice of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), the optimum surgical approach with respect to the middle hepatic vein (MHV) in right lobe LDLT remains undefined. We designed a randomized trial to compare the early postoperative outcomes in recipients and donors between extended right lobe grafts (ERGs; transection plane was maintained to the left of MHV and division of MHV performed beyond the segment VIII vein) and modified right lobe grafts (MRGs; transection plane was maintained to the right of MHV; the segment V and VIII drainage was reconstructed using a conduit of recipient portal vein). Eligible patients (n = 86) were prospectively randomized into the ERG arm (n = 43) and the MRG arm (n = 43) at the beginning of donor hepatectomy. The primary endpoint considered in this equivalence trial was patency of the MHV or the reconstructed “neo‐MHV” in the recipient. The secondary endpoints included biochemical parameters, postoperative complications, mortality in recipients as well as donors and volume regeneration of remnant liver in donors, measured at 2 months. The patency of the MHV was comparable in the ERG and MRG arms (90.7% versus 81.4%; difference, 9.3%; 95% confidence interval [CI], –5.8 to 24.4; z score, 1.245; P = 0.21). Volume regeneration of the remnant liver in donors was significantly better in the MRG arm (111.3% versus 87.3%; mean difference, 24%; 95% CI, 14.6‐33.3; P < 0.001). The remaining secondary endpoints in donors and recipients were similar between the 2 arms. To conclude, MRG with reconstructed neo‐MHV has comparable patency to native MHV in ERG and confers equivalent graft outflow in the recipient. Furthermore, it allows better remnant liver regeneration in the donor at 2 months. Liver Transplantation 24 888–896 2018 AASLD.
A Novel Approach to Increase the Stability of Liposomal Containers via In Prep Coating by Poly[N‐(2‐Hydroxypropyl)Methacrylamide] with Covalently Attached Cholesterol Groups
Authors: Zaborova Olga V. , Filippov Sergey K. , Chytil Petr , Kováčik Lubomir , Ulbrich Karel , Yaroslavov Alexander A. , Etrych Tomaš
Published: January 2018

Highly stable liposomes are developed by coating phosphatidylcholine liposomes with amphiphilic N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide copolymer. Two approaches in the preparation of coated liposomes are employed: the copolymer is added during (“in prep”) or after (“ex post”) the liposome formation. The influence of polymer concentration and coating method is evaluated using the cryogenic transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and small‐angle X‐ray scattering techniques. The in prep modification significantly increases, up to four weeks, the stability of liposomes against aggregation and makes the liposomal membrane nonpermeable toward an inorganic salt. Such enhanced longevity is attributed to the different structure of in prep coated liposomal membranes.
The role of electrodiagnosis with long exercise test in mcardle disease
Authors: Semplicini Claudio , Hézode‐arzel Marianne , Laforêt Pascal , Béhin Anthony , Leonard‐Louis Sarah , Hogrel Jean‐Yves , Petit François , Eymard Bruno , Stojkovic Tanya , Fournier Emmanuel
Published: January 2018

Introduction: In this study we evaluated the role of an electrodiagnostic provocative test (long exercise test) in McArdle disease. Methods: Twenty‐five McArdle patients and 2 control groups underwent an electrodiagnostic protocol with long exercise test (LET), consisting of recording the compound muscle action potential (CMAP) before and after 5 minutes of isometric contraction. Results: The LET disclosed a postexercise decrease in CMAP amplitude in 23 of 25 McArdle patients. The immediate and long‐lasting decrease differentiated McArdle patients from controls. Patients with a normal LET demonstrated milder symptoms and/or residual myophosphorylase activity. Discussion: The LET is a sensitive, safe, and noninvasive provocative test that may guide clinicians toward molecular analysis of the myophosphorylase gene. The abnormalities observed on LET point toward complex biochemical mechanisms determined by the absence of myophosphorylase, beyond simple glycolytic blockade (ionic pump dysfunction, sarcolemmal inexcitability). The normal LET in patients with milder symptoms indicates a relationship of the LET with clinical severity, thus identifying it as a potential outcome measure. Muscle Nerve 58: 64–71, 2018
Venoocclusive disease due to chemotherapy for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia is associated with increased levels of plasminogen‐activator inhibitor‐1
Authors: Mauro Margherita , Saggiorato Graziella , Sartori Maria Teresa , Gallo Giuseppe , De Bortoli Massimiliano , Bonetti Elisa , Zaccaron Ada , Vitale Virginia , Balter Rita , Chinello Matteo , Cesaro Simone
Published: January 2018

We describe three cases of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome/venoocclusive disease (SOS) in pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). All three episodes occurred during or just after the induction or reinduction phase of treatment based on prednisone/dexamethasone, vincristine, daunorubicin, and pegylated‐l‐asparaginase. SOS episodes were categorized as mild/moderate and resolved in 7, 10, and 16 days using supportive measures or defibrotide therapy. In all three episodes, the clinical diagnosis of SOS was associated with a significant increase in plasminogen‐activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) that reduced with patient clinical improvement. PAI‐1 warrants study as a diagnostic marker for SOS in ALL.
Sleep disruption in caregivers of pediatric stem cell recipients
Authors: Coleman Kristen , Flesch Laura , Petiniot Lisa , Pate Abigail , Lin Li , Crosby Lori , Beebe Dean W. , Nelson Adam , Alonso Priscila Badia , Davies Stella M. , Baker Rachel B. , Dandoy Christopher E.
Published: January 2018

Parents/caregivers of hospitalized patients are at risk of sleep disruption. We performed a cross‐sectional quantitative and qualitative evaluation of sleep in parents/caregivers of children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT; n = 17). Additionally, we explored the frequency of room entries for hospitalized patients undergoing HSCT (n = 189 nights). Twelve caregivers (71%) demonstrated significant sleep disturbance, 12 (71%) described sleep quality as poor, 15 (88%) averaged < 6 hours of sleep per night, 14 (82%) awakened at least four times per night. Patient rooms were entered a median of 12 times per night (interquartile range 10–15). Intervention studies to improve caregiver sleep during hospitalization are needed.
Cerebral, subcortical, and cerebellar activation evoked by selective stimulation of muscle and cutaneous afferents: an fMRI study
Authors: Wardman Daniel L. , Gandevia Simon C. , Colebatch James G.
Published: January 2018

We compared the brain areas that showed significant flow changes induced by selective stimulation of muscle and cutaneous afferents using fMRI BOLD imaging. Afferents arising from the right hand were studied in eight volunteers with electrical stimulation of the digital nerve of the index finger and over the motor point of the FDI muscle. Both methods evoked areas of significant activation cortically, subcortically, and in the cerebellum. Selective muscle afferent stimulation caused significant activation in motor‐related areas. It also caused significantly greater activation within the contralateral precentral gyrus, insula, and within the ipsilateral cerebellum as well as greater areas of reduced blood flow when compared to the cutaneous stimuli. We demonstrated separate precentral and postcentral foci of excitation with muscle afferent stimulation. We conclude, contrary to the findings with evoked potentials, that muscle afferents evoke more widespread cortical, subcortical, and cerebellar activation than do cutaneous afferents. This emphasizes the importance, for studies of movement, of matching the kinematic aspects in order to avoid the results being confounded by alterations in muscle afferent activation. The findings are consistent with clinical observations of the movement consequences of sensory loss and may also be the basis for the contribution of disturbed sensorimotor processing to disorders of movement.
Fine‐scale influences on thaw depth in a forested peat plateau landscape in the Northwest Territories, Canada: Vegetation trumps microtopography
Authors: Higgins Kellina Leslie , Garon‐Labrecque Marie‐Ève
Published: January 2018

The influence of vegetation and microtopography on fine‐scale variability of thaw depth is largely unknown but potentially important for improving modeling of ecosystem–permafrost interactions. To elucidate their influence, we measured tree density, shrub cover and cryptogam presence (lichen and bryophyte) on forested permafrost peat plateaus in the discontinuous permafrost zone in the southern Northwest Territories, Canada. Greater tree density was associated with shallower thaw depth (approximately one quarter of the variance), whereas shrub cover had a negligible influence on thaw depth. Cryptogam species influenced thaw depth, with greater thaw depth associated with Sphagnum than with Cladonia (a difference on the order of 10%). Greater thaw depth occurred beneath hummocks than beneath hollows (a difference also on the order of 10%). Together, canopy cover, cryptogam species and microforms contribute to a variation of roughly half the variance in thaw depth in the peat plateau landscape.
Variability Assessment of 90 Salivary Proteins in Intraday and Interday Samples from Healthy Donors by Multiple Reaction Monitoring‐Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Hsiao Yung‐Chin , Chu Lichieh Julie , Chen Yi‐Ting , Chi Lang‐Ming , Chien Kun‐Yi , Chiang Wei‐Fan , Chang Ya‐Ting , Chen Szu‐Fan , Wang Wei‐Shun , Chuang Yao‐Ning , Lin Shih‐Yu , Chien Chih‐Yen , Chang Kai‐Ping , Chang Yu‐Sun , Yu Jau‐Song
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Saliva is an attractive sample source for the biomarker‐based testing of several diseases, especially oral cancer. Here, we sought to apply multiplexed LC‐MRM‐MS to precisely quantify 90 disease‐related proteins and assess their intra‐ and interindividual variability in saliva samples from healthy donors.

Experimental design

We developed two multiplexed LC‐MRM‐MS assays for 122 surrogate peptides representing a set of disease‐related proteins. Saliva samples were collected from 10 healthy volunteers at three different time points (Day 1 morning and afternoon, and Day 2 morning). Each sample was spiked with a constant amount of a 15N‐labeled protein and analyzed by MRM‐MS in triplicate. Quantitative results from LC‐MRM‐MS were calculated by single‐point quantification with reference to a known amount of internal standard (heavy peptide).

Results

The CVs for assay reproducibility and technical variation were 13 and 11%, respectively. The average concentrations of the 99 successfully quantified proteins ranged from 0.28 ± 0.58 ng mL−1 for profilin‐2 (PFN2) to 8.55 ±8.96 μg mL−1 for calprotectin (S100A8). For the 90 proteins detectable in >50% of samples, the average CVs for intraday, interday, intraindividual, and interindividual samples were 38%, 43%, 45%, and 69%, respectively. The fluctuations of most target proteins in individual subjects were found to be within ± twofold.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Our study elucidated the intra‐ and interindividual variability of 90 disease‐related proteins in saliva samples from healthy donors. The findings may facilitate the further development of salivary biomarkers for oral and systemic diseases.
Assessment by Matrix‐Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time‐of‐Flight Mass Spectrometry of the Effects of Preanalytical Variables on Serum Peptidome Profiles Following Long‐Term Sample Storage
Authors: Tsuchida Sachio , Satoh Mamoru , Umemura Hiroshi , Sogawa Kazuyuki , Takiwaki Masaki , Ishige Takayuki , Miyabayashi Yui , Iwasawa Yuuya , Kobayashi Sohei , Beppu Minako , Nishimura Motoi , Kodera Yoshio , Matsushita Kazuyuki , Nomura Fumio
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Human serum and plasma are often used as clinical specimens in proteomics analyses, and peptidome profiling of human serum is a promising tool for identifying novel disease‐associated biomarkers. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) is widely used for peptidomic biomarker discovery. Careful sample collection and handling are required as either can have a profound impact on serum peptidome patterns, yet the effects of preanalytical variables on serum peptidome profiles have not been completely elucidated. The present study investigated the effects of preanalytical variables, including storage temperature, duration (up to 12 months), and thawing methods, on MALDI‐TOF MS‐based serum peptidome patterns.

Experimental design

Aliquots of serum samples were pretreated with weak cation exchanger magnetic beads using an automated ClinProtRobot system and then analyzed by MALDI‐TOF MS.

Results

A number of significant differences in peak intensities were observed depending on sample processing variables.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

These peaks can be used as sample quality markers to assess the effects of long‐term storage on serum peptidome profiles using MALDI‐TOF MS.
Prospective evaluation of Ceftriaxone use in medical and emergency wards of Gondar university referral hospital, Ethiopia
Authors: Ayele Asnakew Achaw , Gebresillassie Begashaw Melaku , Erku Daniel Asfaw , Gebreyohannes Eyob Alemayehu , Demssie Dessalegn Getnet , Mersha Amanual Getnet , Tegegn Henok Getachew
Published: January 2018

Ceftriaxone is among the most commonly utilized antibiotics owing to its high potency, wide spectrum of activity, and low risk of toxicity. It is used to treat different types of bacterial infections including pneumonia, bone infections, abdominal infections, Skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections. However, evidence around the globe shows the misuse of Ceftriaxone. This study aimed at evaluating the appropriateness of ceftriaxone use in medical and emergency wards of Gondar university referral hospital (GURH), Northwest Ethiopia. A prospective, cross‐sectional study design was employed to evaluate the use of ceftriaxone. The medical records of patients who received ceftriaxone were reviewed prospectively between January 1 and March 30, 2017. Appropriateness of ceftriaxone use was evaluated as per the protocol developed from current treatment guidelines. A total of 390 patients’ medical records were reviewed. The utilization rate of ceftriaxone was found to be high with a point prevalence of 59%. Ceftriaxone was empirically used in 79.5% of cases. The most common indications of Ceftriaxone were respiratory tract infections (29.3%), central nervous system infections (24.1%), and prophylactic indications (16.4%). The mean duration of ceftriaxone therapy in our study was 11.47 days, with a range of 1‐52 days. More than two‐thirds (80.2%) of ceftriaxone use were found to be inappropriate and majority of unjustified ceftriaxone use emanated from inappropriate frequency of administration (78.3%), absence of culture and sensitivity test (68.7%), and duration of therapy (47%). Empiric treatment with ceftriaxone and the presence of coadministered drugs was significantly associated with its inappropriate use. The present study revealed a very high rate of inappropriate use of ceftriaxone which may potentially lead to emergence of drug‐resistant microorganisms and ultimately exposes the patient to treatment failure and increased cost of therapy.
Drug Dosing in Pregnant Women: Challenges and Opportunities in Using Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling and Simulations
Authors: Ke Alice Ban , Greupink Rick , Abduljalil Khaled
Published: January 2018

The unmet medical need of providing evidence‐based pharmacotherapy for pregnant women is recognized by the regulatory bodies. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling offers an attractive platform to quantify anticipated changes in the pharmacokinetics (PKs) of drugs during pregnancy. Recent publications applying a pregnancy PBPK module to the prediction of maternal and fetal exposure of drugs are summarized. Future opportunities to use PBPK models to predict breast milk exposure and assess human fetotoxicity risks are presented.
Bacterial contamination hypothesis: a new concept in endometriosis
Authors: Khan Khaleque N. , Fujishita Akira , Hiraki Koichi , Kitajima Michio , Nakashima Masahiro , Fushiki Shinji , Kitawaki Jo
Published: January 2018

Background

Endometriosis is a multifactorial disease that mainly affects women of reproductive age. The exact pathogenesis of this disease is still debatable. The role of bacterial endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide, LPS) and Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) in endometriosis were investigated and the possible source of endotoxin in the pelvic environment was examined.

Methods

The limulus amoebocyte lysate test was used to measure the endotoxin levels in the menstrual fluid and peritoneal fluid and their potential role in the growth of endometriosis was investigated. Menstrual blood and endometrial samples were cultured for the presence of microbes. The effect of gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) treatment on intrauterine microbial colonization (IUMC) and the occurrence of endometritis was investigated.

Main findings (Results)

Lipopolysaccharide regulates the pro‐inflammatory response in the pelvis and growth of endometriosis via the LPS/TLR4 cascade. The menstrual blood was highly contaminated with Escherichea coli and the endometrial samples were colonized with other microbes. A cross‐talk between inflammation and ovarian steroids or the stress reaction also was observed in the pelvis. Treatment with GnRHa further worsens intrauterine microbial colonization, with the consequent occurrence of endometritis in women with endometriosis.

Conclusion

For the first time, a new concept called the “bacterial contamination hypothesis” is proposed in endometriosis. This study's findings of IUMC in women with endometriosis could hold new therapeutic potential in addition to the conventional estrogen‐suppressing agent.
Non‐esterified fatty acid‐associated ability of follicular fluid to support porcine oocyte maturation and development
Authors: Ogawa Kaori , Itami Nobuhiko , Ueda Manami , Kansaku Kazuki , Shirasuna Koumei , Kuwayama Takehito , Iwata Hisataka
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The effect of supplementing maturation medium with follicular fluid (FF) was examined according to its non‐esterified fatty acid (NEFA) content or with a fatty acid mixture (FA‐Mix) on the developmental competence of oocytes, as well as the mitochondrial quality and quantity in the oocytes and cumulus cells.

Method

Porcine oocytes from a slaughterhouse were used.

Results

The FF or FA‐Mix in maturation medium increased the lipid content in both the oocytes and the cumulus cells, but the adenosine triphosphate content was differentially affected. The FF supplementation increased the mitochondrial DNA copy number, survival of cumulus cells, and rate of oocyte development to the blastocyst stage, whereas the FA‐Mix supplementation did not show these effects. The expression levels of GPC4, PFKP, PRDX3, and TFAM in the cumulus cells increased after FF supplementation, but the expression of GJA1 decreased, compared with the cells that were cultured without FF.

Conclusion

Adding FF and FA‐Mix to the maturation medium increased the lipid content in the oocytes and cumulus cells. The effects of FF on the cumulus cells and oocytes were not observed after FA‐Mix supplementation, indicating that the concentration of the NEFAs in the FF are closely associated with an ability to support oocyte maturation and the metabolism of cumulus cells and oocytes.
Informative priors in Bayesian inference and computation
Authors: Golchi Shirin
Published: January 2018

The use of prior distributions is often a controversial topic in Bayesian inference. Informative priors are often avoided at all costs. However, when prior information is available, informative priors are appropriate means of introducing this information into the model. Furthermore, informative priors, when used properly and creatively, can provide solutions to computational issues and improve inference. Through 3 examples with different applications, we demonstrate the importance and utilities of informative priors in incorporating external information into the model and overcoming computational difficulties.
Multifunctional Magnetic Materials of Organic Origin for Biomedical Applications: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Majumder Manoj , Goswami Tamal , Misra Anirban
Published: January 2018

Six different diradical systems based on azulene coupler and nitronyl nitroxide radical moieties have been studied theoretically. Among them, three ferromagnetic diradicals are chosen for further calculation to assess their usability in different biological applications such as two‐photon absorption photodynamic therapy (TPA‐PDT) and magnetic reso nance imaging contrast agents (MRICA). The TPA cross‐section values have been calcu lated to judge their efficiency as TPA‐PDT photosensitizing agents. Calculated values of TPA cross‐section lie in the range of commonly used photosensitizers for PDT. It is seen that the ferromagnetic diradicals can act as very good MRI contrast agents due to their high magnetic anisotropy characteristics. In connection to the magnetic anisotropy, the zero‐field splitting (ZFS) parameters are also computed using density functional theory (DFT) based methods. It is found that the proposed diradicals can show good relaxation behaviour and consequently act as efficient MRI contrast agents. Thus, one can anticipate the multifunctional biological activity of these diradicals.
Facile Preparation of n‐Type LaFeO3 Perovskite Film for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Nassar Ibrahim M. , Wu Shaolong , Li Liang , Li Xiaofeng
Published: January 2018

The attempt to enhance the hydrogen production via light‐driven water‐splitting systems relies mostly on the innovative technologies and photoactive materials. Recently, due to the superior properties such as low price, adaptability, and thermal stability, perovskite materials have attracted much scientific and application attention in the field of photocatalysis. In this study, the n‐type LaFeO3 perovskite is successfully fabricated by using simple sol‐gel method and the corresponding photoanode is formed by dip‐coating and calcinations. The prepared LaFeO3 is characterized using X‐ray diffraction, ultraviolet‐ visible spectrophotometer, energy dispersive X‐ray spectrum, scanning electron microscope, and Raman spectroscopy. The photocurrent density of the optimized LaFeO3 photoanode is up to 8.2 mAcm−2 at 1.7 V vs. Ag/AgCl. The factors affecting their photocatalytic performance including the calcination temperature, the species, concentration and the pH of the electrolyte are evaluated under simulated AM 1.5G solar illumination. Our prepared LaFeO3 may enable the low‐cost design of the durable photoelectrochemical cell for solar energy conversion.
Cellular reprogramming: A new way to understand aging mechanisms
Authors: Yener Ilce Burcu , Cagin Umut , Yilmazer Acelya
Published: January 2018

Increased life expectancy, due to the rise in life quality and the decline in mortality rates, is leading to a society in which the population aged 60 and over is growing more rapidly than the entire population. Although various models and model organisms have been employed to investigate the mechanism of aging, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are useful candidates to study human aging and age‐related human diseases. This work discusses how iPSCs can be used as an alternative to the model organisms such as yeast, Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster, or the mouse. The main focus is the reprogramming technology of somatic cells which is thought to provide an important perspective for rejuvenation strategies. The effects and relationships between aging and cell reprogramming are discussed, and studies related to aging and cell reprogramming are critically reviewed. We believe that for future studies, different parameters and detailed quantitative experiments should be performed in order to clearly understand the effect of aging on human cell reprogramming with respect to programming efficiency and differentiation capacity. This way, new insights will be provided to prevent or even reverse the aging process. WIREs Dev Biol 2018, 7:e308. doi: 10.1002/wdev.308

This article is categorized under:

Adult Stem Cells, Tissue Renewal, and Regeneration > Stem Cells and Aging

Adult Stem Cells, Tissue Renewal, and Regeneration > Regeneration

Adult Stem Cells, Tissue Renewal, and Regeneration > Stem Cells and Disease
The cell biology and molecular genetics of Müllerian duct development
Authors: Roly Zahida Yesmin , Backhouse Brendan , Cutting Andrew , Tan Tiong Yang , Sinclair Andrew H. , Ayers Katie L. , Major Andrew T. , Smith Craig A.
Published: January 2018

The Müllerian ducts are part of the embryonic urogenital system. They give rise to mature structures that serve a critical function in the transport and development of the oocyte and/or embryo. In most vertebrates, both sexes initially develop Müllerian ducts during embryogenesis, but they regress in males under the influence of testis‐derived Anti‐Müllerian Hormone (AMH). A number of regulatory factors have been shown to be essential for proper duct development, including Bmp and Wnt signaling molecules, together with homeodomain transcription factors such as PAX2 and LIM1. Later in development, the fate of the ducts diverges between males and females and is regulated by AMH and Wnt signaling molecules (duct regression in males) and Hox genes (duct patterning in females). Most of the genes and molecular pathways known to be involved in Müllerian duct development have been elucidated through animal models, namely, the mouse and chicken. In addition, genetic analysis of humans with reproductive tract disorders has further defined molecular mechanisms of duct formation and differentiation. However, despite our current understanding of Müllerian duct development, some questions remain to be answered at the molecular genetic level.

This article is categorized under:

Early Embryonic Development > Development to the Basic Body Plan
Genesurance Counseling: Patient Perspectives
Authors: Wagner Chelsea , Murphy Lauren , Harkenrider Jacqueline , Darilek Sandra , Soto‐Torres Eleazar , Stein Quinn , Hoskovec Jennifer
Published: January 2018

Genetic counselors (GCs) have reported an increase in discussion of insurance‐related, or “genesurance,” topics during genetic counseling sessions. Despite increasing frequency, there have been no studies examining patient expectations of GCs in these discussions. This study aimed to explore patient expectations of GCs in these discussions, as well as examine factors that may impact expectations. A 38‐item survey was administered prior to patients receiving prenatal or cancer genetic counseling at 11 clinic sites across UTHealth, Baylor College of Medicine, and Sanford Health, with 360 responses analyzed. Key variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi‐square analysis, and multivariate logistic regression to assess associations between factors and control for potential confounders. Over 75% of patients expected GCs to discuss genesurance topics during a genetic counseling session. The majority of patients (78%) expected GCs to provide an estimated out‐of‐pocket cost, know if a test is a covered benefit (77%), and provide referral information for further questions (76%). Two additional expectations, considered to be unrealistic in most clinical settings, included expecting GCs to know the patient's specific insurance plan and coverage information (57%) and provide an exact out‐of‐pocket cost (41%). Ethnicity was the only significant predictor of response for these two expectations, as African Americans and Hispanics were more likely than Caucasians to have these beliefs. While the patient participants felt that GCs were primarily responsible for initiating these conversations, they also reported a personal sense of responsibility for raising questions. This study demonstrates that patients may expect GCs to address genesurance topics in a genetic counseling session, with specific expectations about the cost and coverage of genetic tests. Further studies will establish the most effective way to communicate this information to patients and examine whether and where within the scope of GC practice, genesurance discussions fall.
Cobaltoan Pyrite in a Lamprophyre from the Sidhi Gneissic Complex, Mahakoshal Belt, Central India
Authors: Giri Rohit Kumar , Pandit Dinesh , Rao N. V. Chalapathi
Published: January 2018

Pyrite containing appreciable content of cobalt (up to 5.61 wt%) and minor amounts of nickel (up to 0.70 wt%) is being reported from electron microprobe studies in a lamprophyre dyke from the Sidhi complex, Mahakoshal belt, Central India. However, cobalt and nickel are conspicuously absent from the associated chalcopyrite reflecting that in a pyrite-chalcopyrite association these elements are preferentially sequestered in pyrite. The microprobe analysis of pyrite grains reveal that their Fe content is variable (40.62 to 46.02 wt%) and reciprocally related to cobalt and nickel concentrations implying the presence of latter as solid solution in the structure of pyrite. The cobalt contents of the pyrite are comparable to those (up to 3.21 wt%) reported from the cobalt-bearing pyrites of the Kalyadi copper deposits of Dharwar craton of southern India. Co:Ni (16.05 average) in the studied pyrite appears to be more consistent with a magmatic, rather than a hydrothermal, origin. However, further studies are in progess. This study highlights that besides gold and diamond, lamprophyres are also important carriers of cobalt when available in the magmatic system.
2D and 3D Rockfall Hazard Analysis and Protection Measures for Saptashrungi Gad Temple, Vani, Nashik, Maharashtra – A Case Study
Authors: Ansari M. K. , Ahmad M. , Singh Rajesh , Singh T. N.
Published: January 2018

The Saptashrungi gad temple (SGT) situated on basaltic hills belongs to Deccan volcanic of Upper Cretaceous to Lower Eocene, is one among the 51 Shakti Peeths and most holy place for pilgrims. Rockfall is a major problem in the past and causing danger to the lives of the villagers settled at the toe of the SGT hill as well as the pilgrims who perform parikrama along the tracks. On the evening of 16 April 2011, an old woman died due to rockfall at SGT hill when she was performing parikrama, moreover, two persons got injured during the deliverance process of this old woman from the continuous rockfall activity. The problem of rockfall could be linked to rainfall, jointing, weathering, man-made or the compounding of all. In this research, the rockfall hazard analysis at SGT hill is assessed using both 2D and 3D rockfall programs along the two parikrama paths: Parikrama Path 1 (or the Badi Parikrama Path ‘BPP’), and Parikrama Path 2 (or the Chhoti Parikrama Path ‘CPP’). Also, the study area of the SGT hill has been divided into eight zones (Zone#01 to Zone#08), based on field observations, orientations of joint sets and hill slope faces and eighteen topographic profiles (AA’ to RR’) have been taken from these eight zones for rockfall analysis. A detailed topographic survey along with field investigation has been carried out along the temple for ascertaining the nature of rock, discontinuity orientations, and slope geometry. DEM has been generated using topographic profile in ArcGIS to facilitate the 3D rockfall analysis. Maximum rock block sizes are taken into the analysis and run-out distance, bounce height, kinetic energy and velocity of the basaltic blocks are evaluated separately. Based on the analyzed data, the rockfall hazard zone map has been prepared and site having potential rockfall risks have been identified. Finally, wire/net meshing has been proposed after removal of unstable blocks as a stabilization and protection measures.

It is worth mentioning here that for the first time rockfall hazard assessment was made in such detail for a site. Suggestions made are implemented by the State Government for the protection of the temple as well as the life of pilgrims performing the parikrama from the rockfall.
Structure and Stratigraphy of Rumbli and Panjar Areas of Kashmir and Pakistan with the Aid of GIS
Authors: Iqbal Omer , Baig Mirza Shahid , Pervez Shahab , Siddiqi Muhammad Iqbal
Published: January 2018

The project area lies in the southern part of the Hazara Kashmir syntaxis. The Hazara Kashmir syntaxis is an antiformal structure. The project area includes Rumbli, Namb, Chatrora, Chachan, Panjar, Barathian and Utrinna areas of Rawalpindi and Sudhnoti districts. The southeastern limb of the Hazara Kashmir syntaxis is imbricated along Punjal thrust, Main Boundary thrust and Riasi fault. The Jhelum fault truncates the western limb of Hazara Kashmir syntaxis. The core of syntaxis comprises of Himalayan molasse deposits. These molasse deposits represent the part of cover sequence of Indian plate. These Himalayan molasse deposits include the Early to Middle Miocene Kamlial Formation, Middle to Late Miocene Chinji Formation, Late Miocene Nagri Formation and Late Miocene Dhok Pathan Formation. The area is highly deformed resulting folds and faults. The major folds in the project area are the Panjar anticline, Barathian syncline, Barathian anticline, Rumbli anticline, Chatrora antiformal syncline and Namb syncline. The folds are either northwest-southeast trending or southwest-northeast trending. The folds are asymmetric, open, and gentle and close in nature. The folds are southwest, northeast or southeast vergent. The Jhelum fault truncates the northeast and northwest trending structures. The folds and faults are the result of northeast-southwest or northwest-southeast Himalayan compression.
Assessment of Groundwater Potential of Gandhinagar Region, Gujarat
Authors: Siddha Swayam , Sahu Paulami
Published: January 2018

With burgeoning population, the groundwater demands of any area increased by many fold and therefore, it is essential to assess the groundwater potential to choose suitable sites for further groundwater development. Present study determines the groundwater potential of different parts of Gandhinagar region located at Gandhinagar district, Gujarat, India. Here, excluding city dwellers, all villagers are mostly dependent on groundwater for drinking and domestic purposes. With increasing population, there is a rise in daily human consumption and hence reduction in groundwater quantity. Various types of industries of Gandhinagar such as textile industries, food processing industries, ceramic industries etc. also require groundwater. Industrial discharges deteriorate the water quality of this region. Therefore, water level monitoring and quality assessment of groundwater in regular intervals is essential. The groundwater potential zoning is an indicator, which gives the overall idea about the groundwater condition. Overlay analysis in GIS using multiple criteria such as WQI, hydraulic conductivity, groundwater velocity, and depth to piezometric surface discloses that there are five groundwater potential zones in Gandhinagar region. This study reveals that majority of the study area is covered with medium potential zone. Different management plans such as treated surface water supply, reduction in tubewell operation time, development of rooftop rainwater harvesting system and artificial recharge system etc. are recommended for different potential zones for sustainable development of groundwater of Gandhinagar region.
CDK5RAP2 gene and tau pathophysiology in late‐onset sporadic Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Miron Justin , Picard Cynthia , Nilsson Nathalie , Frappier Josée , Dea Doris , Théroux Louise ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative,   United Kingdom Brain Expression Consortium, Poirier Judes
Published: January 2018

Introduction

Because currently known Alzheimer's disease (AD) single‐nucleotide polymorphisms only account for a small fraction of the genetic variance in this disease, there is a need to identify new variants associated with AD.

Methods

Our team performed a genome‐wide association study in the Quebec Founder Population isolate to identify novel protective or risk genetic factors for late‐onset sporadic AD and examined the impact of these variants on gene expression and AD pathology.

Results

The rs10984186 variant is associated with an increased risk of developing AD and with a higher CDK5RAP2 mRNA prevalence in the hippocampus. On the other hand, the rs4837766 variant, which is among the best cis‐expression quantitative trait loci in the CDK5RAP2 gene, is associated with lower mild cognitive impairment/AD risk and conversion rate.

Discussion

The rs10984186 risk and rs4837766 protective polymorphic variants of the CDK5RAP2 gene might act as potent genetic modifiers for AD risk and/or conversion by modulating the expression of this gene.
Rationale and concept for a lunar pit reconnaissance probe
Authors: Dorrington G. E.
Published: January 2018

Speculation on near-term scientific reasons for the exploration of lunar pits is offered alongside comments on possible longer-term human exploitation. It is proposed that in order to determine whether or not one or more of the pits offer access the large subsurface voids e.g. a non-collapsed lava tube, a preliminary reconnaissance mission solely focused on obtaining lateral images (and/or LiDAR maps) is needed. Possible concept options for such a preliminary reconnaissance mission are discussed. It is suggested that one of the best possible strategies is to employ a micro-sized probe (~0.3 m) that would hop from a nearby main landing spacecraft to the selected pit. After the surface position of the main lander is determined accurately, the probe would perform a ballistic hop, or hover-traverse, a distance of ~3 km over the lunar surface using existing propulsive and guidance technology capability. Once hovering above the pit, the probe or a separate tethered imaging unit would then be lowered into the pit to acquire the necessary subsurface void topology data. This data would then be transmitted back to Earth, directly, via the lander, or via a store-and-forward orbiting relay. Preliminary estimates indicate that a probe of ~14 kg (dry mass) is viable using a conventional hydrazine monopropellant system with a propellant mass fraction of less than ~0.2 (20%) including margins, suggesting a piggyback architecture would be feasible.
PARSIMONIOUS PARAMETERIZATION OF AGE-PERIOD-COHORT MODELS BY BAYESIAN SHRINKAGE - ERRATUM
Authors: Venter Gary , Şahın Şule
Published: January 2018

In Venter and Şahin (2017), the author's name appeared incorrectly as “ŞULE ŞAHÎN”.

The author's name should appear as “ŞULE ŞAHİN”.

The original article has been corrected to rectify this error.