bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence for an Aneugenic Mechanism of Action for Micronucleus Induction by Black Cohosh Extract
Authors: Bernacki Derek T. , Bryce Steven M. , Bemis Jeffrey C. , Dertinger Stephen D. , Witt Kristine L. , Smith‐Roe Stephanie L.
Published: October 2019

Black cohosh extract (BCE) is a popular botanical dietary supplement marketed to relieve symptoms of various gynecological ailments. Studies conducted by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) showed that BCE induces micronucleated erythrocytes in female rats and mice. Subsequently, the NTP showed that a variety of BCEs, including the sample that induced micronuclei (MN) in vivo (“NTP BCE”) had a similar effect in human TK6 cells. Further testing with the MultiFlow® DNA Damage Assay revealed that TK6 cells exposed to NTP BCE, as well as a BCE reference material (BC XRM), exhibited a signature consistent with aneugenic activity in TK6 cells. Results from experiments reported herein confirmed these in vitro observations with NTP BCE and BC XRM. We extended these studies to include a novel test system, the MultiFlow Aneugen Molecular Mechanism Assay. For these experiments, TK6 cells were exposed to NTP BCE and BC XRM over a range of concentrations in the presence of fluorescent Taxol (488 Taxol). After 4 h, nuclei from lysed cells were stained with a nucleic acid dye and labeled with fluorescent antibodies against phospho‐histone H3 (p‐H3) and Ki‐67. Whereas BCEs did not affect p‐H3:Ki‐67 ratios (a signature of aneugenic mitotic kinase inhibitors), 488 Taxol‐associated fluorescence (a tubulin binder‐sensitive endpoint) was affected. More specifically, 488 Taxol‐associated fluorescence was reduced over the same concentration range that was previously observed to induce MN. These results provide direct evidence that BCEs destabilize microtubules in vitro, and this is the molecular mechanism responsible for the aneugenicity findings. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2019. © 2019 The Authors. Environmental and Molecular Mutagenesis published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Environmental Mutagen Society.
Contamination and genotoxicity biomarker responses in bivalve mussels from the major Lithuanian rivers
Authors: Rybakovas Aleksandras , Arbačiauskas Kęstutis , Markovskienė Vaida , Jokšas Kęstutis
Published: October 2019

European inland waters are under continuous threat of anthropogenic pollution. Determination of background level of biomarker response and subsequent classification of the impact increases the applicability of results. In the current study, we evaluate the range of chemical contamination by measuring the concentrations of metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and polychlorinated biphenyls, and the levels of environmental genotoxicity by using the micronuclei and nuclear bud tests in bivalve mussels of the major Lithuanian rivers. Second, we aimed to evaluate the association between chemical contamination and genotoxicity biomarker responses. Finally, we set to determine the background level of genotoxic effects. Such value (summed frequency of MN and NB) was assessed—6‰. On that basis, we develop a scale of potential genotoxic impact and perform ranging sites into five categories. The results clearly indicate the existence of significant differences in the levels of chemical pollution and genotoxicity in different sites. Increased levels of studied parameters were assessed at the areas affected by municipal and industrial effluents, road runoff, combustion products, and in the area contaminated by accidental spillage. On the other hand, downstream decrease of contamination level, presumably associated with biological degradation and photochemical oxidation, were also observed. Genotoxicity parameters were associated with PAH and metal concentrations measured in mussel tissues as well as in sediments. Results also indicate that in situ genotoxicity assessment performed in the areas affected by long‐term contamination of municipal origin might be not sufficiently precise. Study highlights the necessity to combine genotoxicity assessment with chemical analysis. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 61:338–354, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Four threats to U.S. higher education
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: October 2019

In his book College Disrupted: The Great Unbundling of Higher Education, author Ryan Craig reports that one‐third of all college presidents believe higher education in the United States is heading in the wrong direction and 57% of Americans believe higher education is not providing a good return on the college investment.
Community college students face barriers to success, including registration
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: October 2019

Adult learners attending community colleges are overwhelmingly likely to report having a positive experience at their institution — but they also face multiple barriers to success, including those directly related to the college experience. That finding comes from a first‐of‐its‐kind survey conducted by the consulting firm Percontor, which reached out to more than 50,000 adult students at 10 community colleges during fall 2017 and fall 2018 regarding the challenges they face in earning a degree, and ways that those challenges might be mitigated.
Numerical investigations of a novel vertical axis wind turbine using Blade Element Theory‐Vortex Filament Method (BET‐VFM)
Authors: Hilewit Doma , Matida Edgar , Fereidooni Amin , Abo el Ella Hamza , Nitzsche Fred
Published: October 2019

The aerodynamic performance of three different configurations of vertical axis wind turbines (VAWT), namely: (a) conventional Darrieus troposkein VAWT (based on turbines designed by Sandia National Laboratories), (b) novel 50% STS‐VAWT (50% shifted‐troposkein‐shaped STS‐VAWT), and (c) novel 100% STS‐VAWT were investigated numerically. An in‐house code, which combined the blade element theory (BET) and the vortex filament method (VFM), was used. The main purpose of this work was to develop an aerodynamic code to predict the performance of conventional VAWT as well as assess the novel 50% and 100% STS‐VAWT configurations. Simulation results (power coefficients) were verified and then validated against experimental data available from the literature (2‐, 5‐, and 17‐m conventional troposkein VAWT measured by Sandia National Laboratories). Additional numerical results showed that the 50% STS‐VAWT outperformed both the conventional VAWT and the 100% STS‐VAWT by up to 14% (peak power), within the range of rotation and turbine sizes that were investigated in the present work.
Research on promotion incentive policy and mechanism simulation model of energy storage technology
Authors: Wang Qiang , Tan Zhongfu , De Gejirifu , Pu Lei , Wu Jing
Published: October 2019

With the promulgation and implementation of a large number of renewable energy policies in China, the rapid development of renewable energy is accompanied by the prominent phenomenon of renewable energy abandoning wind and light. Energy storage technology is the key technology to promote the consumption of renewable energy. The government can promote the energy storage technology through the incentive policy of energy storage industry. Firstly, content analysis method is used to analyze China's energy storage policy, and five incentive policies for promoting energy storage technology are obtained. Secondly, built a game model of energy storage technology promotion based on the evolutionary game theory. Finally, use MATLAB software for numerical simulation. Numerical simulation results show that: (a) When the local government chooses to promote less, energy enterprises will eventually adopt the nonconfigure strategy; (b) when the local government chooses to promote more vigorously, energy enterprises will finally adopt the configure strategy; (c) increase in the total electricity sold by energy enterprises with energy storage devices, the sales price of energy stored per unit, the compensation price of energy stored per unit, tax relief standards, and incentive costs of local governments can promote energy enterprises to choose configure strategies; and (d) the reduction of unit energy storage cost, configure cost, and comprehensive tax rate can promote energy enterprises to choose configure strategy.
Recommendations for Improving Methods and Models for Aquatic Hazard Assessment of Ionizable Organic Chemicals
Authors: Escher Beate I. , Abagyan Ruben , Embry Michelle , Klüver Nils , Redman Aaron D. , Zarfl Christiane , Parkerton Thomas F.
Published: October 2019

Ionizable organic chemicals (IOCs) such as organic acids and bases are an important substance class requiring aquatic hazard evaluation. Although the aquatic toxicity of IOCs is highly dependent on the water pH, many toxicity studies in the literature cannot be interpreted because pH was not reported or not kept constant during the experiment, calling for an adaptation and improvement of testing guidelines. The modulating influence of pH on toxicity is mainly caused by pH-dependent uptake and bioaccumulation of IOCs, which can be described by ion-trapping and toxicokinetic models. The internal effect concentrations of IOCs were found to be independent of the external pH because of organisms’ and cells’ ability to maintain a stable internal pH milieu. If the external pH is close to the internal pH, existing quantitative structure–activity relationships (QSARs) for neutral organics can be adapted by substituting the octanol–water partition coefficient by the ionization-corrected liposome–water distribution ratio as the hydrophobicity descriptor, demonstrated by modification of the target lipid model. Charged, zwitterionic and neutral species of an IOC can all contribute to observed toxicity, either through concentration-additive mixture effects or by interaction of different species, as is the case for uncoupling of mitochondrial respiration. For specifically acting IOCs, we recommend a 2-step screening procedure with ion-trapping/QSAR models used to predict the baseline toxicity, followed by adjustment using the toxic ratio derived from in vitro systems. Receptor- or plasma-binding models also show promise for elucidating IOC toxicity. The present review is intended to help demystify the ecotoxicity of IOCs and provide recommendations for their hazard and risk assessment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:269–286. © 2019 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.

Abstract

pH-dependence of the toxicity of ionizable organic chemicals (IOCs) is caused by the pH-dependence of the uptake with constant internal effect concentrations that depend on the mode of action of the IOC, for example, baseline toxicity, uncoupling, or receptor activation.
Challenge test studies on Listeria monocytogenes in ready‐to‐eat iceberg lettuce
Authors: Tucci Patrizia , Centorotola Gabriella , Salini Romolo , Iannetti Luigi , Sperandii Anna Franca , D'Alterio Nicola , Migliorati Giacomo , Pomilio Francesco
Published: October 2019

Shelf‐life studies in ready‐to‐eat (RTE) modified atmosphere packaged (MAP) precut iceberg lettuce (minimally processed) were carried out in order to evaluate the natural microflora of the product and survival or multiplication of Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes), taking into consideration the impact of the production steps resulting in a reduction of the shelf life of the fresh‐cut produce, due to the accelerated enzymatic activity, moisture loss, and microbial proliferation. The research first aimed to evaluate the characteristics of the natural microflora of the product, and then, L. monocytogenes dynamics were studied via challenge tests. L. monocytogenes concentration was studied at 8 and 12°C storage temperature for 10 days, 6 days longer than their shelf life. The number of L. monocytogenes in samples stored both at 8°C and 12°C increased gradually, more evidently in samples stored at 12°C. L. monocytogenes dynamics were studied to define maximum growth rate (μmax) at 8°C (0.0104 log10CFU/g/h) and 12°C (0.0183 log10CFU/g/h). Data obtained from the study were used to develop and validate a specific predictive model able to predict the behavior of L. monocytogenes in RTE MAP iceberg lettuce. According to the model, an increase in storage temperature of 6°C (e.g., from 8 to 14°C) would lead to an increase in L. monocytogenes concentration of more than 6 log10CFU/g at the 10th day of the challenge test (12th days of shelf life). Storage at 4°C allowed to increase L. monocytogenes enumeration from 3.30 log10CFU/g at D0 to 3.60 log10CFU/g at D10. The model could be applied to microorganisms other than L. monocytogenes, modifying the coefficients of the polynomial equation on which it is based.
Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) sap as a potential source of sugar: Antioxidant and nutritional properties
Authors: Asghar Muhammad Tuseef , Yusof Yus Aniza , Mokhtar Mohd. Noriznan , Ya'acob Mohammad Effendy , Mohd. Ghazali Hasanah , Chang Lee Sin , Manaf Yanty Noorzianna
Published: October 2019

This study was carried out to compare the antioxidant and nutritional properties of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) sap with other natural sources of sugar such as sugar palm (Borassus flabellifer) and sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.). Coconut sap and juice from sugar palm and sugarcane were analyzed for proximate composition, pH and total soluble solid (TSS), color, sugar profile, vitamin profile, antioxidant properties (total phenolic contents, DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS), and mineral content. The results indicated that coconut sap possesses high DPPH (23.42%), FRAP (2.09 mM/ml), and ABTS (21.85%) compared with the juices. Coconut sap also had high vitamin C (116.19 µg/ml) and ash (0.27%) contents, especially in potassium (960.87 mg/L) and sodium (183.21 mg/L) which also indicating high content of minerals. These properties showed that coconut sap could be served as a potential healthier sugar source compared with sugar palm and sugarcane juices.
Sickerlinienberechnung in nachbergbaulichen Böschungsbereichen
Authors: Kriegel David , Blankenburg René , Mansel Holger
Published: October 2019

Für die Standsicherheitsermittlung in Böschungssystemen ist die Kenntnis der geohydraulischen Verhältnisse von immenser Bedeutung. An einem synthetischen bodenmechanischen Schnitt wird die Vorgehensweise zur Berechnung der Sickerlinie und der Feuchteverteilung in einem Böschungsbereich an einem Tagebaurestloch gezeigt. Mittels der sich ergänzenden Programmsysteme PCGeofim und PCSiWaPro sollen die Sickerlinie, die Druckhöhenpotenziale sowie die Sättigung und der Wassergehalt im Böschungskörper berechnet werden. Die verwendeten Programmsysteme erlauben dem Nutzer, eine hinreichend genaue Abbildung der Feuchteverteilung im Untergrund zu erzielen und Berechnungsergebnisse für weitere Standsicherheitsbetrachtungen sowie Nutzungsplanungen zu erhalten. Die Sensitivitätsbetrachtung für die hydraulische Leitfähigkeit zeigt die Relevanz einer genauen Kenntnis der Bodenparameter.
Impaired interactions among white‐matter functional networks in antipsychotic‐naive first‐episode schizophrenia
Authors: Fan Yun‐Shuang , Li Zehan , Duan Xujun , Xiao Jinming , Guo Xiaonan , Han Shaoqiang , Guo Jing , Yang Siqi , Li Jiao , Cui Qian , Liao Wei , Chen Huafu
Published: October 2019

Schizophrenia has been conceptualized as a disorder arising from structurally pathological alterations to white‐matter fibers in the brain. However, few studies have focused on white‐matter functional changes in schizophrenia. Considering that converging evidence suggests that white‐matter resting state functional MRI (rsfMRI) signals can effectively depict neuronal activity and psychopathological status, this study examined white‐matter network‐level interactions in antipsychotic‐naive first‐episode schizophrenia (FES) to facilitate the interpretation of the psychiatric pathological mechanisms in schizophrenia. We recruited 42 FES patients (FESs) and 38 healthy controls (HCs), all of whom underwent rsfMRI. We identified 11 white‐matter functional networks, which could be further classified into deep, middle, and superficial layers of networks. We then examined network‐level interactions among these 11 white‐matter functional networks using coefficient Granger causality analysis. We employed group comparisons on the influences among 11 networks using network‐based statistic. Excitatory influences from the middle superior corona radiate network to the superficial orbitofrontal and deep networks were disrupted in FESs compared with HCs. Additionally, an extra failure of suppression within superficial networks (including the frontoparietal network, temporofrontal network, and the orbitofrontal network) was observed in FESs. We additionally recruited an independent cohort (13 FESs and 13 HCs) from another center to examine the replicability of our findings across centers. Similar replication results further verified the white‐matter functional network interaction model of schizophrenia. The novel findings of impaired interactions among white‐matter functional networks in schizophrenia indicate that the pathophysiology of schizophrenia may also lie in white‐matter functional abnormalities.
Probe‐based fluorescence dosimetry of an antibody‐dye conjugate to identify head and neck cancer as a first step to fluorescence‐guided tissue preselection for pathological assessment
Authors: Nishio Naoki , van Keulen Stan , van den Berg Nynke S. , Lu Guolan , LaRochelle Ethan P. , Davis Scott C. , Martin Brock A. , Fakurnejad Shayan , Zhou Quan , Birkeland Andrew C. , Kaplan Michael J. , Divi Vasu , Colevas A. Dimitrios , Pogue Brian W. , Rosenthal Eben L.
Published: October 2019

Background

Despite the rapid growth of fluorescence imaging, accurate sampling of tissue sections remains challenging. Development of novel technologies to improve intraoperative assessment of tissue is needed.

Methods

A novel contact probe‐based fluorescence dosimeter device, optimized for IRDye800CW quantification, was developed. After evaluation of the device in a phantom setup, its clinical value was defined ex vivo in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who received panitumumab‐IRDye800CW.

Results

Ten patients were enrolled with a total of 216 data points obtained. Final histopathology showed tumor in 119 spots and normal tissue in 97 spots. Fluorescence‐to‐excitation ratios in tumor tissue were more than three times higher than those in normal tissue. The area under the curve was 0.86 (95% CI: 0.81‐0.91) for tumor detection.

Conclusions

Fluorescence‐guided tissue preselection using a fluorescence dosimeter could have substantial impact on tissue sampling for frozen section analysis and potentially reduce sampling errors.
Upregulated NPM1 is an independent biomarker to predict progression and prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinomas in Taiwan
Authors: Peng Hsin‐Hui , Ko Hui‐Hsin , Chi Nai‐Chi , Wang Yi‐Ping , Lee Hsiang‐Chieh , Pan Pei‐Yao , Kuo Mark Yen‐Ping , Cheng Shih‐Jung
Published: October 2019

Background

Nucleophosmin/nucleoplasmin family 1 (NPM1) has broad physiological functions, such as DNA replication, transcription, ribosome biogenesis, and centrosome replication. This study explored the clinicopathological importance of NPM1 as a prognostic marker for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods

We collected specimens from 96 OSCC, 45 oral epithelial dysplasia (OED), and 29 normal oral mucosa (NOM). NPM1 expression was analyzed via immunohistochemistry. Correlations between NPM1and clinical parameters were analyzed using Student t test, chi‐squared test, and Kaplan‐Meier product‐limit method.

Results

The NPM1 labeling indices (LIs) were significantly higher in OSCCs than in NOM and oral OED. Higher NPM1 expression was significantly correlated with larger tumor size, nodal metastasis, and advanced clinical stage. Multivariate analysis revealed that higher NPM1 LIs were an unfavorable independent factor for survival.

Conclusions

Upregulated NPM1 is an independent biomarker of poor prognosis and NPM1 inhibitors may be promising in molecular targeted therapy against OSCC.
Probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG Prevents Liver Fibrosis Through Inhibiting Hepatic Bile Acid Synthesis and Enhancing Bile Acid Excretion in Mice
Authors: Liu Yunhuan , Chen Kefei , Li Fengyuan , Gu Zelin , Liu Qi , He Liqing , Shao Tuo , Song Qing , Zhu Fenxia , Zhang Lihua , Jiang Mengwei , Zhou Yun , Barve Shirish , Zhang Xiang , McClain Craig J. , Feng Wenke
Published: October 2019

Background and Aims

Cholestatic liver disease is characterized by gut dysbiosis and excessive toxic hepatic bile acids (BAs). Modification of gut microbiota and repression of BA synthesis are potential strategies for the treatment of cholestatic liver disease. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects and to understand the mechanisms of the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) on hepatic BA synthesis, liver injury, and fibrosis in bile duct ligation (BDL) and multidrug resistance protein 2 knockout (Mdr2−/−
) mice.

Approach and Results

Global and intestine‐specific farnesoid X receptor (FXR) inhibitors were used to dissect the role of FXR. LGG treatment significantly attenuated liver inflammation, injury, and fibrosis with a significant reduction of hepatic BAs in BDL mice. Hepatic concentration of taurine‐β‐muricholic acid (T‐βMCA), an FXR antagonist, was markedly increased in BDL mice and reduced in LGG‐treated mice, while chenodeoxycholic acid, an FXR agonist, was decreased in BDL mice and normalized in LGG‐treated mice. LGG treatment significantly increased the expression of serum and ileum fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF‐15) and subsequently reduced hepatic cholesterol 7α‐hydroxylase and BA synthesis in BDL and Mdr2−/−
mice. At the molecular level, these changes were reversed by global and intestine‐specific FXR inhibitors in BDL mice. In addition, LGG treatment altered gut microbiota, which was associated with increased BA deconjugation and increased fecal and urine BA excretion in both BDL and Mdr2−/−
mice. In vitro studies showed that LGG suppressed the inhibitory effect of T‐βMCA on FXR and FGF‐19 expression in Caco‐2 cells.

Conclusion

LGG supplementation decreases hepatic BA by increasing intestinal FXR–FGF‐15 signaling pathway–mediated suppression of BA de novo synthesis and enhances BA excretion, which prevents excessive BA‐induced liver injury and fibrosis in mice.
Cardiovascular Risk Categories in Patients With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and the Role of Low‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol
Authors: Labenz Christian , Prochaska Jürgen H. , Huber Yvonne , Nagel Michael , Straub Beate K. , Wild Philipp , Galle Peter R. , Schattenberg Jörn M.
Published: October 2019

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The current analysis expands the knowledge on atherogenic lipid profiles in NAFLD by modeling changes in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) and total cholesterol (TC) in a prospectively enrolling real‐life study cohort to inform physicians on the cardiovascular (CV) event risk based on these changes. A total of 304 patients with histologically confirmed NAFLD were included (mean age, 52 years; equal sex distribution). Of these, 129 (42.4%) patients exhibited a NAFLD activity score ≥4 and 186 (61.2%) had at least intermediate fibrosis ≥F2. The median TC levels were 209 mg/dL (interquartile range [IQR], 183, 239), LDL‐C 131 mg/dL (IQR, 103, 152), and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) 45 mg/dL (IQR, 38, 52). Only 16.9% of patients received lipid‐lowering therapy. According to the LDL/HDL ratio, 69 (23.7%) patients exhibited a high CV risk. The 10‐year CV event risk according to the Framingham risk score (FRS) was low in 91 (41.2%), intermediate in 59 (26.7%), and high in 71 (32.1%) patients and higher in the ≥F2 NAFLD population. A moderate increase in LDL‐C levels by 20 mg/dL led to a transition of 20% of patients into the high‐risk group when assessing the LDL/HDL ratio. According to the FRS, 6 (2.7%) patients moved from low to intermediate and 11 (4.9%) from intermediate to high CV risk. Conclusion: Patients with NAFLD exhibit a substantial CV event risk and are frequently undertreated with lipid‐lowering medication. Moderate increases in LDL‐C would result in worsening of the CV event risk in approximately 7.8% of all patients without a history of CVD.
Sonochemical Functionalization of Cotton and Non‐Woven Fabrics with Bio‐Inspired Self‐Assembled Nanostructures
Authors: Khadeja Lialy , Grigoriants Irena , Halperin‐Sternfeld Michal , Yona Aviv , Adler‐Abramovich Lihi
Published: October 2019

Cotton and non‐woven fabrics are commonly used for medical applications such as wound dressing. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in developing functionalized fabrics that allow the sustained release of active molecules for large‐scale production. However, several limitations of currently used technologies restrict the ability to form durable fabrics with functional coatings. Herein, using a sonochemical process, we successfully deposited diphenylalanine (FF) peptide nanotubes on cotton and non‐woven fabrics. FF peptide nanotubes were loaded with curcumin, an antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory agent. The structure of the fabric decorated with nanotubes was studied by electron microscopy, and the sustained release of curcumin was demonstrated using absorbance measurements. Sonication duration was positively correlated with the deposition of the nanotubes onto the fabrics’ fibers as well as the retention of the curcumin within the FF nanotubes. These results suggest that the sonochemical process may be used for large‐scale fabrication of functionalized commercial fabrics.
Spectral characteristics of caries autofluorescence obtained from different locations and caries severities
Authors: Ro Jung Hoon , Bang John J. , Kim Yong‐Il , Lee Dong‐Joon , Ko Ching‐Chang , Garcia‐Godoy Franklin , Kwon Yong Hoon
Published: October 2019

Dental caries usually occurs at interproximal and occlusal surfaces. The purpose of the present study was to determine if characteristic spectral factors extracted from autofluorescence (AF) spectra are informative regarding caries detection and the determination of caries stage as compared with DIAGNOdent results. AF spectra were obtained from caries lesions of different severities at two locations using a 405 nm laser. Three spectral factors, that is, spectral slope at 550 to 600 nm, spectral area under the curve at 500 to 590 nm and two‐peak ratio between 625 and 667 nm, were extracted. The values of three spectral factors linearly decreased as caries progressed. According to micro‐CT images, conventional visual and tactile inspections of lesions under or overestimated (25%‐65%) caries states, and brown or thickly stained layer on interproximal or occlusal surfaces, respectively, caused misclassifications of caries stage. Of the spectral factors examined, spectral slope and area under curve for interproximal and occlusal surfaces, respectively, were found to be significantly related to caries stage and showed least data overlap. For interproximal and occlusal surfaces, DIAGNOdent readings of different stages overlapped considerably though their mean values were significantly different regardless of stage.
Quality assessment of cryopreserved biospecimens reveals presence of intact biomolecules
Authors: Pansare Kshama , Pillai Divya , Parab Saili , Singh Saurav R. , Kannan Sadhana , Ludbe Madan , Hole Arti , Murali Krishna C. , Gera Poonam
Published: October 2019

Recapitulation of tumor features in isolated biomolecules is preeminently dependent on obtaining reliable quality biospecimen. Moreover, quality assessment of biobanked specimens at regular intervals is an essential intervention for carrying out effective translational and clinical research. In the current study, genomic DNA was extracted from 140 fresh frozen tissues of oral, breast and colorectal specimens cryopreserved over a period of 3 to 8 months (short term) and 3 to 4 years (long term). Quantification of genomic DNA by absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy confirmed high concentration while qualitative analysis by gel electrophoresis showed intact bands for 94% and 87% of short‐ and long‐term cohorts, respectively. PC‐LDA based classification of Raman spectra showed overlapping groups of both cohorts suggesting the quality of DNA being preserved irrespective of storage period. To the best of our knowledge this is the first Indian biobank study reporting quality analysis of biospecimens cryopreserved at different time periods.
Preparation and characteristics of electrospinning PTH‐Fc/PLCL/SF membranes for bioengineering applications
Authors: Yin Lihua , Zhu Yidan , He Miaomiao , Chang Yaoren , Xu Fangfang , Lai Hong‐Chang
Published: October 2019

Alveolar bone loss is always a big challenge for oral implant placement. Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is one of the solutions to fix this problem. Among all the factors, the barrier membrane plays a key role in this technology. At present, lack of the osteoinductivity remains the biggest weakness for clinical application. Focusing on this, we tried to fabricate an osteoinductive three‐dimensional (3D) nanofiber membrane with drug releasing system by introducing parathyroid hormone (PTH)‐Fc into the poly(lactic acid‐co‐caprolactone) PLCL/SF solution for electrospinning. The characteristics were determined by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, contact angle measurement, and mechanical strength. According to the optimum parameters tested, we proceed to the in vitro experiments. Drug release and matrix degradation profiles of electrospinning fibers were investigated. Cell morphology was observed and cell proliferation was analyzed after bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) were seeded. The results showed favorable physical and chemical properties and good biocompatibility of these 3D nanofibers. The effect on the BMMSCs suggested the drug releasing promoted osteogenic differentiation of cells stably. This study exhibited a promising method of GBR oeteoinductive membrane fabrication. The bone reconstruction will be benefited from the osteogenic differentiation positive drug releasing system.
Collagen and bone morphogenetic protein‐2 functionalized hydroxyapatite scaffolds induce osteogenic differentiation in human adipose‐derived stem cells
Authors: Linh Nguyen T. B. , Abueva Celine D. G. , Jang Dong‐Woo , Lee Byong‐Taek
Published: October 2019

Surface modification is one important way to fabricate successful biocompatible materials in bone tissue engineering. Hydroxyapatite (HAp) materials have received considerable attention as suitable bioceramics for manufacturing osseous implants because of their similarity to bone mineral in terms of chemical composition. In this study, the surface of porous HAp scaffold was modified by collagen treatment and bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) conjugation. The surface modification did not affect the HAp scaffold's bulk properties. No significant difference in compressive strength was found among different scaffolds, with HAp, collagen modified HAp, and collagen–BMP‐2‐functionalized HAp having compressive strengths of 45.8 ± 3.12, 51.2 ± 4.09, and 50.7 ± 3.98 MPa, respectively. In vitro studies were performed to compare adhesion and osteogenic differentiation between human adipose‐derived stem cells (hADSCs) with modified surfaces and those unmodified HAp surfaces. Collagen or BMP‐2 alone was insufficient and that both collagen and BMP‐2 are necessary to get the desired results. The findings suggest the possibility of using three‐dimensional HAp scaffold treated with gold‐standard collagen coating and highly researched BMP‐2 growth factor as a platform to deliver hADSCs. Results of this study could be used to develop treatment strategy for regenerating completely transected models using more synergistic approaches.
The sex parameter in estimation of total blood volume for pediatric erythrocytapheresis
Authors: Colavita Daniela , Kim Haewon C. , Friedman David F.
Published: October 2019

Background and Objectives

Estimation of the total blood volume (TBV) is fundamental to the control of automated red cell exchange (RCE). Error in the TBV estimate can produce outcomes that deviate from the prescribed targets, and may endanger the patient. Both the Spectra Optia and the COBE Spectra use the Nadler formulae to estimate TBV. There is a potential for large overestimates of TBV when the Nadler formula for males is applied to prepubertal boys.

Materials and Methods

This study uses our large clinical experience with RCE to examine procedure outcomes when RCE in prepubertal boys is programed with the female parameter instead of male. We determined the differences between programmed and measured values for three outcomes: (a) Programmed End Hematocrit − Post spun HCT by Hemata Stat II, (b) Programmed End Hematocrit − Post CBC HCT, and (c) Predicted Post Hgb S+C − Measured Post Hgb S+C. We defined the experimental group as Male‐Female, where the biological sex was male but programmed sex was female, and two control groups where programmed and biological sex were the same.

Results

Small but statistically significant differences were demonstrated between the mean programmed‐to‐observed deviations of these outcome measures in all but two group and subgroup comparisons; however, the absolute magnitudes of the observed differences were not clinically significant. The suggested weight cutoff to begin programming males as male is 35 kg.

Conclusion

The study provides experiential validation that performing RCE in prepubertal boys using the female parameter is safe.
What is the role of the board‐level technology committee?
Authors: Harrast Steven A. , Swaney Amy M.
Published: October 2019

The board‐level technology committee (TC) could play a significant role in enterprise risk management. Unfortunately, only about 10 % of public companies have chartered such a committee. There is evidence that the TC mitigates the negative market reaction to data breaches (Higgs et al. 2016), suggesting that investors expect TCs to control operational IT risk—the risk associated with technology that facilitates the company's core operations, including external risk such as data breaches. Based on a review of 50 existing TC charters, we find that TCs today focus instead mainly on strategic risk—the risk associated with strategic product technology development—with under half of TCs including operational risk management in their charters. We see this as a potential disconnect between stakeholder expectations of risk management and company delivery on that expectation.
Understanding the patient population and test utilization for hepatitis B virus testing
Authors: Choi Rihwa , Oh Yejin , Park Seungman , Lee Sang Gon , Lee Eun Hee
Published: October 2019

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a global concern with different epidemiologies due to several factors including migration, vaccination policies, and new antiviral treatment regimens. It is important to understand the characteristics of a patient population, including the prevalence of diseases, and to assess test utilization to understand and evaluate the clinical performance of laboratory tests and to improve the quality of clinical laboratories.

Materials and methods

In this study, we evaluated serologic and virologic laboratory tests including hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis B surface antibody, hepatitis B envelope antigen (HBeAg), hepatitis B envelope antibody, and HBV DNA in Korean adults who were exposed to HBV.

Results

During the 1‐year study period, we obtained 22 750 specimens from 17 523 adult Korean patients (>18.0 years; 9894 males and 7629 females) with a median age of 50.1 years (interquartile range, 42.2‐58.2 years). Among them, five serologic and virologic laboratory tests were performed for 1340 (5.9%) specimens from 1172 adult Korean patients (>18.0 years; 647 males and 525 females) with a median age of 46.8 years (range, 19.0‐84.5 years). The prevalence of serologic and virologic tests indicating several clinical situations was evaluated. The correlation coefficient between HBV DNA and HBeAg was ρ = 0.85 (P < .0001). However, 51.9% (695/1340) of samples did not show agreement between the two test results.

Conclusions

Analysis of the prevalence of patients categorized into five serologic and virologic laboratory results would be helpful to expand our knowledge about patient population characteristics and to improve test utilization.
Congenital pulmonary airway malformation associated with mosaic Klinefelter syndrome
Authors: Holubyeva Anastasiya , Bracero Luis A. , Feuerstein Jessica L. , Bush Steven
Published: October 2019

A 26‐year‐old female, G4 P2012 presented for an anatomy scan at 18 weeks. Multiple macrocysts were seen in the left fetal lung, which lead to a diagnosis of congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) type II. A fetal MRI examination performed at 24 weeks of gestation confirmed the diagnosis of CPAM type II. A genetic amniocentesis was done to rule out a fetal chromosomal abnormality and the fetus was found to have mosaic Klinefelter syndrome. Fetal CPAM is not usually associated with chromosomal abnormalities unless there are other fetal malformations present. This is the first known case where a fetus with CPAM and no other malformation was found to have mosaic Klinefelter syndrome. Therefore, we believe it is prudent to offer prenatal diagnostic testing whenever a fetus with CPAM is identified with ultrasound.
Descriptive epidemiological study of South African colorectal cancer patients at a Johannesburg Hospital Academic institution
Authors: McCabe Michelle , Perner Yvonne , Magobo Rindidzani , Mirza Sheefa , Penny Clement
Published: October 2019

Background and Aim

Epidemiological studies of colorectal cancer (CRC) in South Africa (SA) have been poorly characterized. Black and white SA population groups have demonstrated distinct CRC clinical presentations, suggesting that black SA patients follow a different carcinogenic pathway than their white counterparts. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify unique demographic and histopathological features associated with black SA patients to facilitate earlier diagnosis and to improve disease management.

Methods

This preliminary descriptive epidemiological study included 665 retrospective CRC cases diagnosed between the period 2011 and 2015 at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. Demographic and histopathological features in black versus other race groups (ORG) were compared, and Student's t‐test, Chi‐square, and Fischer's exact tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Statistical analysis demonstrated that patients with left‐sided tumors of invasive adenocarcinoma were predominantly black and male. These patients were considerably younger when compared to ORG (median 56 vs 62 years, respectively), P < 0.0001. However, no significant propensity for other histological features was illustrated. Polyps were mostly tubular adenomas (51%) and tubulovillous adenomas (TVAs) (44%). TVAs were mostly high‐grade lesions (P < 0.0001) and associated with left‐sided CRC (P = 0.0325).

Conclusion

These findings verify that black SA CRC patients have an earlier disease onset in comparison to ORG; however, no increased tendency for tumor site, precursor lesion, stage of disease, or gender was evident. Thus, a deeper molecular characterization of CRC is required to understand the underlying causes associated with earlier disease onset in black SA CRC patients.
Influence of duration of type 1 diabetes on long‐term pancreatic transplant outcomes
Authors: Zhou Jie , Dong Yinlei , Mei Shengmin , Gu Yangjun , Li Zhiwei , Xiang Jie , Zheng Huilin , Chen Zheng , Huang Zhichao , Hu Zhenhua
Published: October 2019

Background

There are no multicenter studies on the influence of diabetes duration on pancreatic transplant outcomes. Our study aimed to determine how type 1 diabetes duration influenced survival of pancreatic grafts.

Methods

The data of 8,139 patients who received pancreas transplants during 2006–2015 were extracted from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients database. Patients were separated into two groups according to duration of diabetes: S group (diabetes ≤20 years) and L group (>20 years).

Results

Compared to S group, L group were older and prone to be male, to have higher body mass index, to receive pancreas after kidney transplantation (PAK), and to be White. Patient survival was not significantly different between the two groups, but pancreatic survival was better in the L group (hazard ratio 0.88; P = 0.012). Pancreatic survival of L group was better than S group in pancreas transplant alone and simultaneous pancreas‐kidney transplantation (SPK). Graft survival was not significant different between the two groups in PAK. Diabetes duration was an independent predictor of graft survival in SPK patients (hazard ratio 0.86; P = 0.012).

Conclusions

Diabetes duration has no influence on patient survival. However, long duration of type 1 diabetes mellitus appears to be protective against pancreatic graft loss.
Age-related alterations in human gut CD4 T cell phenotype, T helper cell frequencies, and functional responses to enteric bacteria
Authors: Dillon Stephanie M. , Liu Jay , Purba Christine M. , Christians Allison J. , Kibbie Jon J. , Castleman Moriah J. , McCarter Martin D. , Wilson Cara C.
Published: October 2019

Intestinal lamina propria (LP) CD4 T cells play critical roles in maintaining intestinal homeostasis and in immune responses to enteric microbes, yet little is known regarding whether they contribute to age-associated intestinal immune dysfunction. In this study, we evaluated the direct ex vivo frequency, activation/inhibitory phenotype, death profiles, and in vitro functional responses of human jejunum LP CD4 T cells, including Th1, Th17, and Th22 subsets isolated from younger (<45 years) and older (>65years) persons. Expression of the co-inhibitory molecule CTLA-4 was significantly lower in older CD4 T cells, whereas expression of HLA-DR, CD38, CD57, and PD-1 were not significantly different between groups. Total CD4 T cell frequencies were similar between age groups, but lower frequencies and numbers of Th17 cells were observed directly ex vivo in older samples. Older Th17 and Th1 cells proliferated to a lesser degree following in vitro exposure to bacterial antigens vs. their younger counterparts. Levels of spontaneous cell death were increased in older CD4 T cells; however, cellular death profiles following activation did not differ based on age. Thus, small intestinal CD4 T cells from older persons have altered phenotypic and functional profiles including reduced expression of a co-inhibitory molecule, increased spontaneous cell death, and both reduced frequencies and altered functional responses of specific Th cell subsets. These changes may contribute to altered intestinal homeostasis and loss of protective gut immunity with aging.
Biological models in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Sanabria‐Castro Alfredo , Flores‐Díaz Marietta , Alape‐Girón Alberto
Published: October 2019

Considering the etiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) is still unknown, experimental models resembling specific aspects of this immune‐mediated demyelinating human disease have been developed to increase the understanding of processes related to pathogenesis, disease evolution, evaluation of therapeutic interventions, and demyelination and remyelination mechanisms. Based on the nature of the investigation, biological models may include in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo assessments. Even though these approaches have disclosed valuable information, every disease animal model has limitations and can only replicate specific features of MS. In vitro and ex vivo models generally do not reflect what occurs in the organism, and in vivo animal models are more likely used; nevertheless, they are able to reproduce only certain stages of the disease. In vivo MS disease animal models in mammals include: experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, viral encephalomyelitis, and induced demyelination. This review examines and describes the most common biological disease animal models for the study of MS, their specific characteristics and limitations.
Assessing the impacts of the spring sensible heat flux over the Tibetan Plateau on Asian summer monsoon rainfall using observational and reanalysis data
Authors: Zhan Chuan , Shi Qinqing , Liang Shunlin
Published: October 2019

The influence of the spring sensible heat flux (SHF) over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) on the Asian summer monsoon rainfall (ASMR) has been widely investigated. Previous efforts have mainly used the SHF at meteorological stations located over the central and eastern TP. The relationship between the SHF over the entire TP and the ASMR over a time period of two decades is poorly known. Based on observational and reanalysis datasets, we analysed the impact of SHF anomalies on the ASMR from 1984 to 2007. Lag correlation analysis showed that the May SHF and atmospheric heat source (AHS) anomalies over the TP can persist until June and June–July, respectively. Partial correlation analysis, which removed the effects of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), was performed. Summer rainfall in northern China and northern India were positively correlated with the late spring SHF, while in western India and southern China, it was negatively correlated. The mechanism of these associations was demonstrated by composite analysis of winds and water vapour transport in the years of anomalously high and low SHF over the TP. The results highlight the importance of the changes in the surface and atmospheric conditions in late spring over the TP, which exert a significant influence on the ASMR through sensible heat anomalies.
Emergency contraception awareness in an at‐risk population
Authors: Hope Denise L. , Hattingh Laetitia , King Michelle A.
Published: October 2019

Background

Consumer awareness of emergency contraception is generally poor. School leavers (schoolies) engage in risky behaviours, including casual sex and alcohol and drug consumption.

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the awareness of an at‐risk population of schoolies regarding the use and availability of emergency contraception.

Methods

An electronic survey was self‐administered by participants using Wi‐Fi‐connected iPads at the Schoolies Wristband Distribution Centre, Surfers Paradise, on the first day of Queensland Schoolies Week, November 2017. Outcomes measured were awareness of the availability of emergency contraception from a pharmacy, maximum time for effective use following unprotected intercourse and whether emergency contraception is harmful to the health of the user.

Results

Schoolies completed 498 valid surveys. Most (83.5%) were aged 17 years and 50.8% were aware that emergency contraception is available from community pharmacies with prescription and 36.7% were aware that it is available without prescription; 18.5% were aware of the 72‐ or 120‐h effectiveness window and 38.0% agreed that it is not harmful. All questions were associated with considerable uncertainty. Females were 1.8‐ to 3.2‐fold more likely than males to provide an appropriate response to any emergency contraception statement.

Conclusion

Schoolies’ awareness of emergency contraception availability, effectiveness window and safety was low. At‐risk schoolies may not access emergency contraception when indicated due to fear of harm, uncertainty about its effectiveness window or a lack of knowledge about timely non‐prescription access from community pharmacies. Targeted education may improve current knowledge gaps. The misnomer ‘morning‐after pill’ should be abandoned for the clinically appropriate term ‘emergency contraception’.