bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low salinity‐induced alterations in epithelial ultrastructure, Na+/K+‐ATPase immunolocalization and enzyme kinetic characteristics in the gills of the thinstripe hermit crab, Clibanarius vittatus (Anomura, Diogenidae)
Authors: Antunes Claudia Doi , Lucena Malson Neilson , Garçon Daniela Pereira , Leone Francisco Assis , McNamara John Campbell
Published: September 2017

Fresh caught Clibanarius vittatus [SW, 31‰ salinity (S)] were acclimated to a dilute medium (15‰ S) for 10 days, employing silver staining to locate gill ion transporting tissue, immunofluorescence to localize the Na+/K+‐ATPase α‐subunit in the lamellae, and electron microscopy to portray ultrastructural changes in the gill epithelia. Na+/K+‐ATPase activity was characterized kinetically in a gill microsomal fraction, including synergistic stimulation by NH4+ plus K+. Silver staining revealed that all 26 phyllobranchiate arthro‐ and pleurobranchiae participate in ion transport. Na+/K+‐ATPase α‐subunit staining was weak in SW crabs and distributed exclusively and irregularly within the intralamellar septal cells, particularly at the septal‐pillar cell body junctions, and septal cell cytoplasm facing the hemolymph space. In 15‰ S crabs, α‐subunit localization was intense, occupying the entire thickened septum. Pillar cells and flanges did not stain. Mitochondria and membrane foldings increased in the pillar cell flanges and intralamellar septal cells, greatly amplifying surface area. Only a single ATP binding site (VM  =  130.8 ± 10.5 nmol min−1 mg protein−1; K0.5  =  55.3 ± 1.7 μmol l−1) obeying Michaelis–Menten kinetics was disclosed. Na+/K+‐ATPase activity was modulated by Mg2+, Na+, and NH4+, exhibiting site–site interactions; K+ modulation showed Michaelis–Menten kinetics. K+ plus NH4+ synergistically stimulated activity ≈ 1.7‐fold. Ouabain inhibited total ATPase activity by ≈ 70% (KI  =  220–300 μmol l−1), revealing phosphohydrolytic activities other than the Na+/K+‐ATPase. Despite ample phylogenetic separation, the phyllobranchiate lamellae of the Anomura and Caridea share many ultrastructural features, that is, an intralamellar septum and opposed abutting pillar cells, similar Na+/K+‐ATPase distribution, and comparable kinetic characteristics. These findings suggest either convergent evolution at the structural and biochemical levels, or preservation of traits present in a remote common ancestor.
Synthesis of Tetrahydrotriazoloacridines: A Synergistic Effect of Microwave Irradiation and Brönsted Acidic Ionic Liquids
Authors: Khaligh Nader Ghaffari
Published: September 2017

3‐Methyl‐1‐sulfonic acid imidazolium hydrogen sulfate ([MSIm][HSO4]) catalyzed the condensation of 5‐aminobenzotriazole and 5,5‐dimethyl‐cyclohexane‐1,3‐dione (dimedone) with aromatic aldehydes under microwave irradiation. This method is efficient to synthesize 11‐aryl‐8,8‐dimethyl‐6,7,9,11‐tetrahydro[1,2,3]triazolo[4,5‐a]acridine‐10(1H)‐one derivatives as a series of tetrahydroacridines in good to excellent yields, while the catalyst can be recovered and reused up to six times without significant loss of activity. This one‐pot three‐component reaction provided an efficient method for the synthesis of aromatic heterocycles.
Neutral glenoid alignment in reverse shoulder arthroplasty does not guarantee decreased risk of impingement
Authors: Berhouet Julien , Gulotta Lawrence , Chen Xiang , Dines David , Warren Russel , Kontaxis Andreas
Published: September 2017

Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty (RSA) has gained popularity over the recent years, but impingement concerns are still present. Surgeons aim to correct pre‐operative glenoid deformities to reduce impingement but it can be challenging without assistance like patient specific guides. However, it is unclear how accurate glenoid correction affects the impingement. The main objective of this study was to determine whether accurate glenoid correction to neutral version and tilt can reduce the risk of impingement. Two types of virtual surgeries were performed on 22 pre‐operative arthritic shoulders: (i) “Interactive,” the glenoid baseplate could be placed with accuracy, and (ii) “Blind,” surgeons placed the RSA baseplate while they could only visualize the glenoid. The virtual models were then used in an RSA biomechanical model which recorded impingement for (i) four Range of Motion (ROM) tasks, (ii) ten Activities of Daily Living (ADL). The “Blind” method resulted in more variable glenoid placement (version and tilt) than the “Interactive” method (p = 0.001). However, both methods showed similar ROM and impingement occurrence in ADLs. The results suggest it is challenging for surgeons to accurately correct version and tilt on arthritic glenoids when only referencing off of the face of the glenoid. However, the variable glenosphere placement observed in the “Blind” method did not result in worse impingement compared to the accurate “Interactive” method. This was because both methods had similar inferior baseplate positioning which is more important than correcting version or tilt. Implantation accuracy remains important in RSA, but pre‐operative planning should not just target at correcting version and tilt. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1213–1219, 2018.
Collagen XI mutation lowers susceptibility to load‐induced cartilage damage in mice
Authors: Holyoak Derek T. , Otero Miguel , Armar Naa Shidaa , Ziemian Sophia N. , Otto Ariana , Cullinane Devinne , Wright Timothy M. , Goldring Steven R. , Goldring Mary B. , van der Meulen Marjolein C. H.
Published: September 2017

Interactions among risk factors for osteoarthritis (OA) are not well understood. We investigated the combined impact of two prevalent risk factors: mechanical loading and genetically abnormal cartilage tissue properties. We used cyclic tibial compression to simulate mechanical loading in the cho/+ (Col11a1 haploinsufficient) mouse, which has abnormal collagen fibrils in cartilage due to a point mutation in the Col11a1 gene. We hypothesized that the mutant collagen would not alter phenotypic bone properties and that cho/+ mice, which develop early onset OA, would develop enhanced load‐induced cartilage damage compared to their littermates. To test our hypotheses, we applied cyclic compression to the left tibiae of 6‐month‐old cho/+ male mice and wild‐type (WT) littermates for 1, 2, and 6 weeks at moderate (4.5 N) and high (9.0 N) peak load magnitudes. We then characterized load‐induced cartilage and bone changes by histology, microcomputed tomography, and immunohistochemistry. Prior to loading, cho/+ mice had less dense, thinner cortical bone compared to WT littermates. In addition, in loaded and non‐loaded limbs, cho/+ mice had thicker cartilage. With high loads, cho/+ mice experienced less load‐induced cartilage damage at all time points and displayed decreased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐13 levels compared to WT littermates. The thinner, less dense cortical bone and thicker cartilage were unexpected and may have contributed to the reduced severity of load‐induced cartilage damage in cho/+ mice. Furthermore, the spontaneous proteoglycan loss resulting from the mutant collagen XI was not additive to cartilage damage from mechanical loading, suggesting that these risk factors act through independent pathways. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:711–720, 2018.
Preliminary results of tissue‐engineered injection laryngoplasty material in a rabbit model
Authors: Oldenburg Michael S. , Ekbom Dale C. , San Marina Serban , Voss Steve , Chen Tiffany , Garcia Joaquin , Janus Jeffery R.
Published: September 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Design and test a novel biomaterial for injection laryngoplasty aimed to increase the duration of effectiveness of micronized acellular dermis.

Study Design

Animal model.

Methods

Injection laryngoplasty was performed in three groups (n = 5) of New Zealand White rabbits. Acellular dermis was either used alone as a control (group 1), was combined with undifferentiated stem cells (group 2), or with predifferentiated chondrocytic cells (group 3). Groups 2 and 3 were supplemented with growth factors. Animals were sacrificed 4 and 12 weeks after laryngoplasty and histologic analysis was completed. The major outcome measure was volume of tissue remaining.

Results

After 4 weeks, the mean volume of tissue remaining was 341 ± 89 mm3, 295 ± 102 mm3, and 133 ± 15 mm3, for groups 1 to 3, respectively. At the 12‐week time point, volumes were 62 ± 62 mm3, 235 ± 35 mm3, and 107 ± 99 mm3. After 12 weeks, there was a significantly higher volume in group 2 compared to group 1 or 3 (P = .01, P = .04). Volumes between week 4 and week 12 were significantly lower in group 1 (P = .02), but not significantly different for groups 2 and 3 (P = .38, P = .74). Histologic evaluation revealed a robust lymphocytic infiltration in all cases as well as morphologic and immunophenotypic features suggestive of chondrogenic differentiation in a single animal.

Conclusions

Micronized acellular dermis combined with stem cells and growth factors showed significantly less resorption 12 weeks after injection laryngoplasty compared to micronized acellular dermis alone. Groups using novel tissue‐engineered biomaterial showed a lower resorption rate over time compared with acellular dermis alone.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 128:160–167, 2018
Clinical predictors of multiple tympanostomy tube placements in Ontario children
Authors: Beyea Jason A. , Nguyen Paul , Hall Stephen F.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To characterize risk factors that predict the need for multiple tympanostomy tube (TT) procedures.

Study Design

Retrospective population‐based cohort study of children aged 18 years and younger in Ontario, Canada, who underwent at least one TT placement between January 1, 1994, and October 31, 2013.

Methods

The relative risk (RR) of need for multiple TT procedures was determined using log‐binomial regression.

Results

There were 193,880 children who underwent TT insertion included in this cohort. Of these, 28.58% underwent at least two separate TT procedures. Over time, the RR of undergoing multiple TT procedures is decreasing for all children. In general, the younger the child was at the first TT procedure, the more likely the child was to undergo multiple TT procedures. Significantly higher RR for multiple TT procedures also was associated with male sex, the second‐highest neighborhood income quintile, asthma or reactive airways, gastrointestinal disease, prematurity, or cleft lip and/or palate. Significantly lower RR for multiple TT procedures was associated with adenoidectomy or tonsillectomy (with or without adenoidectomy) at first TT placement or within 3 years prior. Furthermore, the benefit of adjuvant adenoidectomy or tonsillectomy was present for children aged under 4 years, in addition to those aged 4 years and older.

Conclusion

Among Ontario children who have had TT placement, more than one in four will have multiple sets placed. These identified risk factors permit improved preoperative counseling and enable identification of children who need closer follow‐up.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 128:991–997, 2018
Shaping Polyyne Rods by Using an Electric Field
Authors: Rozental Esther , Altus Eli , Major Dan Thomas , Hoz Shmaryahu
Published: September 2017

When a homogenous electric field is applied to polyynes (C10 and C20) perpendicular to their long axis, they bend to form an arch. The height of the arch is proportional to the intensity of the electric field. The direction of the bend and its magnitude depend on the electronic nature (donor/acceptor) of the substituents at the termini of the polyyne. The driving force for the formation of the arch is the dipole moment produced in the system parallel to the electric field. This dipole moment stems from the substituents and from additional polarization by the field. The bend of the linear polyyne fits a parabolic distortion. According to mechanical engineering analysis, this results from a moment that operates at the two end zones of the polyynes, in accordance with the natural bond order (NBO) charge distribution. It is shown that solutions relevant to beam deflection due to a central load or a uniformly distributed load are not satisfactory. Various parameters, such as the dipole moment and the height of the arch, are better correlated with σ than with σ+ or σ−. Application of the electric field to more complex systems enables the sculpting of interesting nanoshapes.
Solution‐Processed Organic Solar Cells Using New Electron Acceptor Derived from Naphthalene and Fluorene Unit
Authors: Nagarjuna Puvvala , Chaturvedi Neha , Bagui Anirban , Runjhun Rashmi , Garg Ashish , Singh Surya Prakash
Published: September 2017

We have developed two new electron acceptors NAP‐C60 and N4 derived from naphthalene and fluorene, respectively for solution processed organic solar cells. In the case of NAP‐C60, [6, 6]‐phenyl C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC61BM) basic structure is modified by replacing its phenyl group with naphthalene group; while in the case of N4, diaryl fullerene structure was modified using fluorene group. The UV‐visible spectra of the molecules show strong absorption in the UV region. Cyclic‐voltammetry measurements yielded the highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy levels of N4 and NAP‐C60 molecules as (‐5.63 eV, −3.69 eV) and (5.80 eV, −3.70 eV), respectively. The best solar cell devices made from PTB7:NAP‐C60 and PTB7:N4 bulk composite films resulted in power conversion efficiencies of 4.1 and 4.3 %, respectively. The diarylmethanofullerene derivative N4 shows a higher open circuit voltage compared to the methanofullerene derivative NAP‐C60, attributed to low lying LUMO levels of N4.
The Missing Link in Ni(II)‐Ln(III) System: Design and Synthesis of a Dinuclear [Ni2] and Three Pentanuclear [Ni3Ln2] (Ln=La, Ce, Eu) Complexes of a Schiff Base Ligand
Authors: Saha Sudeshna , Sarkar Arijit , Das Suman , Panda Tarun K. , Harms Klaus , Nayek Hari Pada
Published: September 2017

A new Schiff base ligand N‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl‐3‐methoxy‐salicylideneamine)‐5‐nitrophenol (H2L) has been synthesized by the reaction of o‐vanillin with 2‐amino‐4‐nitrophenol. The ligand H2L has been employed to prepare homo‐ and heteronuclear metal complexes. For example, a dinuclear Ni(II) complex, [Ni2(L)2(H2O)3]⋅2DMF⋅3H2O (1) and a new family of three pentanuclear heterometallic [Ni3Ln2L6(H2O)4(DMF)2]⋅4DMF (Ln=La (2), Ce (3) and Eu (4) were prepared by the reaction of it with nickel nitrate hexahydrate and hydrated lanthanide nitrates. The solid state structures of ligand (H2L) and complexes 1–4 were determined by single crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction and NMR data reveal that the ligand H2L exist as a keto‐enamine form in the solid state. Structure of complex 1 indicates formation of a dinuclear Ni(II) complex. Complexes 2–4 are isostructural and exhibits a butterfly‐like structure containing two Ln(III) ions and three Ni(II) ions. The Ni(II) and Ln(III) are bridged by phenoxo and aqua ligands resulting a pentanuclear chain with alternating Ni(II) and Ln(III) ions. Different coordination modes of ligand (H2L) have been explored. To the best of our knowledge, such pentanuclear complexes containing Ni−Ln and Schiff base ligand are hitherto unknown. The thermal stability and optical properties of all complexes are also investigated.
Hydroxide‐Bridged Mixed‐Valence Tetranuclear Cobalt 4‐Nitrophenol Inclusion Complex Showing Single Molecule Magnet Property
Authors: Shankar Krapa , Mondal Abhishake , Li Yanling , Journaux Yves , Baruah Jubaraj B.
Published: September 2017

Two tetranuclear hydroxide‐bridged mixed‐valence cobalt complexes, one having 4‐nitrophenolate anions and other having 4‐nitrophenol as guest, namely [(μ2‐dea)2(phen)2Co2(μ3‐OH)2Co2(phen)2](np)4•H2O (1), [(μ2‐dea)2(phen)2Co2(μ3‐OH)2 Co2(phen)2]Cl4•2Hnp•9H2O (2) (Hnp=4‐nitrophenol, phen=1,10‐phenanthroline, dea=di‐deprotonated diethanolamine) were synthesized and structurally characterized. Complex cation of these two complexes are based on Co4O4(OH)2 units where two cobalt ions are in Co2+ and other two are in Co3+ oxidation states. Reaction of same set of reactants namely phen, Hnp and diethanolamine with cobalt nitrate in presence or absence of hydrochloric acid resulted complex 1 and 2 respectively. The two triply‐bridging hydroxides of complex 1 are in identical environment, but the complex 2 has two triply‐bridging hydroxides in slightly different environments having differences in Co‐O(hydroxide) bond distances around them. Complex 2 is ferromagnetic and shows field induced Single Molecule Magnets (SMM) behavior.
Understanding Chemico‐Biological Interactions of Glutamate MMP‐2 Inhibitors through Rigorous Alignment‐Dependent 3D‐QSAR Analyses
Authors: Adhikari Nilanjan , Amin Sk Abdul , Saha Achintya , Jha Tarun
Published: September 2017

The current study involves different alignment techniques (pharmacophore‐based, docking‐based and Open3DALIGN‐based) extensively at the first time to build three‐dimensional quantitative structure‐activity relationship (3D‐QSAR) models on some potential glutamate‐based in house MMP‐2 inhibitors. The docking‐based alignment method yields the best 3D‐QSAR models though other alignment‐based methods also provide statistically significant and validated models. 3D‐QSAR models are correlated with molecular docking study and pharmacophore mapping. Biphenyl moiety of glutamines enters into the S1′ pocket and involves π‐π interactions with Tyr142 and His120, while none of the phenylacetyl/naphthylacetyl isoglutamines interacts with Tyr142. 3D‐QSAR models also suggest the importance of hydrophobicity and steric features of biphenyl function required for higher MMP‐2 inhibition. The sulfonyl oxygen may form potential hydrogen bonding interaction with Leu83 and Ala84 of S1' pocket. This study clearly points out that biphenylsulfonyl glutamines are favorable than phenylacetyl/naphthylacetyl isoglutamines for imparting higher MMP‐2 inhibition.
A Greener and Facile Synthesis of Imidazole and Dihydropyrimidine Derivatives under Solvent‐Free Condition Using Nature‐Derived Catalyst
Authors: Tamuli Kashyap Jyoti , Dutta Deepjyoti , Nath Shyamalendu , Bordoloi Manobjyoti
Published: September 2017

Natural substances are increasingly used now‐a‐days in organic syntheses for their safety aspects towards the environment. We have identified a natural substance which can promote organic reaction and can be sustainable as it can be obtained from plant sources. The natural substance can promote the synthesis of imidazole and dihydropyrimidine derivatives under solvent‐free condition. The method is economical, greener, metal and solvent free for the synthesis of highly functionalized imidazole and dihydropyrimidine derivatives and was promoted by water extract of pomelo (WEP) at room temperature. These WEP promoted reactions are found to afford high yield for the desired products and can be an alternative protocol for the existing procedures.
Supramolecular Germicide Switches through Host‐Guest Interactions for Decelerating Emergence of Drug‐Resistant Pathogens
Authors: Bai Haotian , Fu Xuancheng , Huang Zehuan , Lv Fengting , Liu Libing , Zhang Xi , Wang Shu
Published: September 2017

Infections caused by drug‐resistant pathogens have posed a series of public health crises across the world. To address this challenging issue, development of new antibiotics is one of the most effective methods, however it always lags behind the spreading of antibiotic resistance unfortunately. In this work we illustrate an innovative supramolecular strategy to design germicide switch for decelerating the emergence of drug‐resistant bacteria. The germicide switches are built up between commercial germicides and cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]) through host‐guest interactions, and their bactericidal activity is switched “off” and “on” reversibly by assembly and dis‐assembly processes of germicide/CB[7] complex. Structure‐property relation exhibits that the interaction between active sites of germicides and CB[7] plays a decisive role in the antimicrobial activity of these germicide switches. By turning antibacterial activity “on” when needed and turning it “off” when not needed, the germicide switch will not continue to produce pressure on bacteria, thus decelerating the emergence of drug‐resistant bacteria. This work offers a proof‐of‐concept approach to efficiently prevent the emergence of drug‐resistant bacteria by controllable and reversible release and concealment of active sites of germicides by supramolecular strategy.
One Step Carbon‐Phosphor Bond Formation and N‐Alkylation of Tetrahydroisoquinolines under Silver Catalysis
Authors: Yi Fengping , Fan Yanxia , Zhang Lirong , Yi Weiyin
Published: September 2017

Heterocycles with tetrahydroisoquinolines moiety are important biologically, and α‐aminophosphonates derivatives have unusual features in agrochemicals and medicines. In this paper, we combined these two parts to afford α‐aminophosphonates tetrahydroisoquinolines. A highly facile, one step direct carbon‐phosphor bond formation and N‐alkylation of tetrahydroisoquinolines was developed. It is a three‐component reaction of Nitrogen‐unprotected tetrahydroisoquinolines, aldehydes and trialkyl phosphites, which provides C1‐phosphonylated and N‐alkylation of THIQs (Tetrahydroisoquinolines) with moderate to high yields. The mild reaction conditions were investigated to give a broad range of substrates. Under the optimized reaction condition at reaction temperature 120 oC, after heating 8 h the desired final product was given in 90% yield, which is a satisfied reaction result. The different substituted benzaldehydes and THIQs were investigated in detail and proved to be broad. The proposed mechanism was also showed.
Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Perovskite Photodetectors
Authors: Tian Wei , Zhou Huanping , Li Liang
Published: September 2017

Hybrid organic–inorganic perovskite materials garner enormous attention for a wide range of optoelectronic devices. Due to their attractive optical and electrical properties including high optical absorption coefficient, high carrier mobility, and long carrier diffusion length, perovskites have opened up a great opportunity for high performance photodetectors. This review aims to give a comprehensive summary of the significant results on perovskite‐based photodetectors, focusing on the relationship among the perovskite structures, device configurations, and photodetecting performances. An introduction of recent progress in various perovskite structure‐based photodetectors is provided. The emphasis is placed on the correlation between the perovskite structure and the device performance. Next, recent developments of bandgap‐tunable perovskite and hybrid photodetectors built from perovskite heterostructures are highlighted. Then, effective approaches to enhance the stability of perovskite photodetector are presented, followed by the introduction of flexible and self‐powered perovskite photodetectors. Finally, a summary of the previous results is given, and the major challenges that need to be addressed in the future are outlined. A comprehensive summary of the research status on perovskite photodetectors is hoped to push forward the development of this field.
Photoactuation Healing of α‐FeOOH@g‐C3N4 Catalyst for Efficient and Stable Activation of Persulfate
Authors: Zhang Gong , Wu Zhang , Liu Huijuan , Ji Qinghua , Qu Jiuhui , Li Jinghong
Published: September 2017

Inspired by living systems, the construction of smart devices that can self‐heal in response to structural damage is a promising technology for maintaining the high activity and stability of catalysts during heterocatalytic reactions. Here this study demonstrates an ingenious platform that enabled efficient persulfate (PS) activation for contaminant degradation via integrating a catalyst with photoactuation regeneration. Under irradiation, it is unambiguously confirmed that the collective properties of a tailored FeOOH@C3N4 catalyst permit interfacial photoexcited electron transport from the photocatalyst substrate to needle‐shaped FeOOH. This results in the simultaneous recovery of Fe(III) and optimization of the Fe(II)/Fe(III) ratio on FeOOH surface during PS activation process, so that the healed chemical structure ensures that subsequent PS activation remains unimpaired. Aqueous organic contaminant (bisphenol A) oxidation efficacy in this system is almost 20 times higher than for photo‐ or Fenton‐oxidation alone. This work highlights the concept of catalyst regeneration for stable reactive species generation in solution, which represents alternative application of photocatalysis for practical environmental remediation. Further, the photoactuation healing approach can be expanded into various domains, such as material fabrication or chemical synthesis.
Low‐Cost TiS2 as Hole‐Transport Material for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Huckaba Aron J. , Gharibzadeh Saba , Ralaiarisoa Maryline , Roldán‐Carmona Cristina , Mohammadian Nasim , Grancini Giulia , Lee Yonghui , Amsalem Patrick , Plichta Edward J. , Koch Norbert , Moshaii Ahmad , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: September 2017

A room‐temperature low‐cost TiS2 p‐type contact material is applied for the first time as the hole‐transporting material (HTM) in perovskite solar cells, with power conversion efficiencies surpassing 13.5%. Synthesized by a simple two‐step hot‐injection method, it presents a much lower price per m2 than octakis(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐9,9′‐spirospirobi[9H‐fluorene]‐2,2′,7,7′‐tetramine (spiro‐OMeTAD), 30 times lower in price ($0.046 for TiS2 and $1.36 for spiro‐OMeTAD at 13.54% efficiency), standing out over most of the reported HTM alternatives.
UBR2 Enriched in p53 Deficient Mouse Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Exosome Promoted Gastric Cancer Progression via Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway
Authors: Mao Jiahui , Liang Zhaofeng , Zhang Bin , Yang Huan , Li Xia , Fu Hailong , Zhang Xu , Yan Yongmin , Xu Wenrong , Qian Hui
Published: September 2017

The deficiency or mutation of p53 has been linked to several types of cancers. The mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) is an important component in the tumor microenvironment, and exosomes secreted by MSCs can transfer bioactive molecules, including proteins and nucleic acid, to other cells in the tumor microenvironment to influence the progress of a tumor. However, whether the state of p53 in MSCs can impact the bioactive molecule secretion of exosomes to promote cancer progression and the regulatory mechanism remains elusive. Our study aimed to investigate the regulation of ubiquitin protein ligase E3 component n-recognin 2 (UBR2) enriched in exosomes secreted by p53 deficient mouse bone marrow MSC (p53–/–mBMMSC) in gastric cancer progression in vivo and in vitro. We found that the concentration of exosome was significantly higher in p53–/–mBMMSC than that in p53 wild-type mBMMSC (p53+/+mBMMSC). In particular, UBR2 was highly expressed in p53–/–mBMMSC cells and exosomes. P53–/–mBMMSC exosomes enriched UBR2 could be internalized into p53+/+mBMMSC and murine foregastric carcinoma (MFC) cells and induce the overexpression of UBR2 in these cells which elevated cell proliferation, migration, and the expression of stemness-related genes. Mechanistically, the downregulation of UBR2 in p53–/–mBMMSC exosomes could reverse these actions. Moreover, a majority of Wnt family members, β-catenin, and its downstream genes (CD44, CyclinD1, CyclinD3, and C-myc) were significantly decreased in MFC knockdown UBR2 and β-catenin depletion, an additional depletion of UBR2 had no significant difference in the expression of Nanog, OCT4, Vimentin, and E-cadherin. Taken together, our findings indicated that p53–/–mBMMSC exosomes could deliver UBR2 to target cells and promote gastric cancer growth and metastasis by regulating Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
Microemulsion‐made Magnesium Carbonate Hollow Nanospheres
Authors: Jung‐König Jan , Feldmann Claus
Published: September 2017

Magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) hollow nanospheres and their structural and thermal properties are presented. The hollow nanospheres are prepared via a microemulsion‐based synthesis using dibutylmagnesium(II) and CO2 as the starting materials. Size, structure, and composition of the as‐prepared MgCO3 hollow nanospheres are comprehensively validated by different analytical methods (SEM, STEM, TEM, XRD, FT‐IR, TG). Accordingly, they exhibit an outer diameter of 35 ± 9 nm, an inner cavity size of 17 ± 5 nm, and a wall thickness of 9 ± 3 nm. Furthermore, the as‐prepared MgCO3 hollow nanospheres exhibit a specific surface area of 90 m2·g–1 and pore radii with a maximum at 10–15 nm that both reflect the inner cavity. By sintering (600 °C), the MgCO3 hollow nanospheres can be converted to MgO, which does not show a hollow‐sphere structure but which still exhibits a high specific surface area (110 m2·g–1). The synthesis of MgCO3 hollow nanospheres is generally shown for the first time.
Are Incidental Gallbladder Cancers Missed with a Selective Approach of Gallbladder Histology at Cholecystectomy?
Authors: Lundgren Linda , Muszynska Carolina , Ros Axel , Persson Gunnar , Gimm Oliver , Valter Lars , Andersson Bodil , Sandström Per
Published: September 2017

Background

Incidental gallbladder cancer (IGBC) is an unexpected finding when a cholecystectomy is performed upon a benign indication, and the use of routine or selective histological analysis of gallbladder specimen is still debated. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the proportion of submitted gallbladder specimens for pathological investigation influences the proportion of IGBC found, and what possible factors preoperatively or perioperatively could influence the selection process.

Methods

All cholecystectomies between January 2007 and September 2014 registered in the Swedish Registry of Gallstone Surgery and ERCP (GallRiks) were included. Proportion of histological analysis was divided into four subgroups (0–25%, >25–50%, >50–75%, >75–100%).

Results

A total of 81,349 cholecystectomies were registered, and 36,010 (44.3%) gallbladder specimens were sent for histological analysis. A total of 213 cases of IGBC were discovered, which constituted 0.26% of all cholecystectomies performed and 0.59% of the number of gallbladder specimens sent for histological analysis. Hospitals submitting >75–100% of the gallbladder specimens had significantly more IGBC/1000 cholecystectomies performed (p = 0.003). Hospitals with the most selective approach had a significantly higher proportion of IGBC/1000 gallbladders that were sent for histological analysis (p < 0.001). Factors such as higher age (p < 0.001), female gender (p = 0.048) and macroscopic cholecystitis (p < 0.001) were more common in gallbladder specimens from hospitals that had a selective approach to histological analysis.

Conclusion

A routine approach to histological analysis in cholecystectomies with a benign indication for surgery can uncover a higher proportion of IGBC cases. When a selective approach is used, risk factors should be taken into account.
Liver involvement in urea cycle disorders: a review of the literature
Authors: Bigot Adrien , Tchan Michel C. , Thoreau Benjamin , Blasco Hélène , Maillot François
Published: September 2017

Urea cycle disorders (UCDs) are inborn errors of metabolism of the nitrogen detoxification pathway and encompass six principal enzymatic deficiencies. The aging of UCD patients leads to a better knowledge of the long‐term natural history of the condition and to the reporting of previously unnoticed manifestations. Despite historical evidence of liver involvement in UCDs, little attention has been paid to this organ until recently. Hence, we reviewed the available scientific evidence on acute and chronic liver dysfunction and liver carcinogenesis in UCDs and discuss their pathophysiology. Overall, liver involvement, such as acute liver failure or steatotic‐like disease, which may evolve toward cirrhosis, has been reported in all six main UCDs. Excessive glycogen storage is also a prominent histologic feature, and hypoglycemia has been reported in citrin deficiency. Hepatocarcinomas seem frequent in some UCDs, such as in citrin deficiency, and can sometimes occur in non‐cirrhotic patients. UCDs may differ in liver involvement according to the enzymatic deficiency. Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency may be associated more with acute liver failure and argininosuccinic aciduria with chronic liver failure and cirrhosis. Direct toxicity of metabolites, downstream metabolic deficiencies, impaired tricarboxylic acid cycle, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, energy deficit, and putative toxicity of therapies combine in various ways to cause the different liver diseases reported.
What California sea lions exposed to domoic acid might teach us about autism: lessons for predictive and preventive medicine
Authors: Lahvis Garet Paul
Published: September 2017

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) shares many biological and behavioral similarities with the deleterious effects of domoic acid (DA) exposure. DA is produced by marine algae and most commonly by species of Pseudo-nitzschia. Humans and marine mammals can be exposed to DA when they consume whole fish or shellfish. The mammalian fetus is highly sensitive to the deleterious effects of DA exposure. Both ASD and exposures to toxic levels of DA feature repetitive behaviors, challenges with social interaction, and seizures. They can also share a commonality in brain anatomy and function, particularly the balance between excitatory and inhibitory mechanisms. The current article is relevant to predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine for three reasons. First, shellfish consumption may be a risk factor for ASD and the regulatory limit for DA should be adjusted to prevent this possibility. Human contributions to increased algal production of DA in coastal waters should be identified and reduced. Second, evaluations of sentinel species wild and free-roaming in the environment, though typically outside the purview of biomedical research, should be much more fully employed to gain insights to risk factors for human disease. To better identify and prevent disease, biomedical researchers should study wild populations. Third, studies of DA exposure highlight the possibility that glutamate additives to processed foods may also have deleterious impacts on human brain development and behavior.
Love Death—A Retrospective and Prospective Follow-Up Mortality Study Over 45 Years
Authors: Lange Lena , Zedler Barbara , Verhoff Marcel A. , Parzeller Markus
Published: September 2017

Background

Although sexual activity can cause moderate stress, it can cause natural death in individuals with pre-existing illness. The aim of this study was to identify additional pre-existing health problems, sexual practices, and potential circumstances that may trigger fatal events.

Methods

This medicolegal postmortem, retrospective, and prospective study is based on data of autopsies performed at the Institute of Legal Medicine of the University hospital, Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany.

Outcomes

Identification of pre-existing health problems, sexual practices, and potential circumstances than could trigger fatal events.

Results

From 1972 to 2016 (45 years) approximately 38,000 medicolegal autopsies were performed, of which 99 cases of natural death were connected to sexual activities (0.26%). Except for eight women, men represented most cases. The women’s mean age was 45 years (median = 45) and the men’s mean age was 57.2 years (median = 57). Causes of death were coronary heart disease (n = 28), myocardial infarction (n = 21) and reinfarction (n = 17), cerebral hemorrhage (n = 12), rupture of aortic aneurysms (n = 8), cardiomyopathy (n = 8), acute heart failure (n = 2), sudden cardiac arrest (n = 1), myocarditis (n = 1), and a combination of post myocardial infarction and cocaine intoxication (n = 1). Most cases showed increased heart weights and body mass indices. Death occurred mainly during the summer and spring and in the home of the deceased. If sexual partners were identified, 34 men died during or after sexual contact with a female prostitute, two cases at least two female prostitutes. Nine men died during or after sexual intercourse with their wife, in seven cases the sexual partner was a mistress, and in four cases the life partner. Five men died during homosexual contacts. Based on the situation 30 men were found in, death occurred during masturbation. Of the women, five died during intercourse with the life partner, two died during intercourse with a lover or friend, and in one case no information was provided.

Clinical Translation

Natural deaths connected with sexual activity appear to be associated with male sex and pre-existing cardiovascular disorders. Most cases recorded occurred with mistresses, prostitutes, or during masturbation. If death occurs, the spouse or life partner might need psychological support.

Strength and Limitations

To our knowledge, the present study contains the largest collection of postmortem data on natural deaths connected with sexual activities. However, the cases presented were of forensic interest; a larger number of undetected cases especially in the marital or stable relationship sector must be assumed.

Conclusion

Patients should be informed about the circumstances that could trigger the “love death.”
Physics of Partially Ionized Plasmas
Authors: Krishan Vinod
Published: September 2017

Plasma is one of the four fundamental states of matter; the other three being solid, liquid and gas. Several components, such as molecular clouds, diffuse interstellar gas, the solar atmosphere, the Earth's ionosphere and laboratory plasmas, including fusion plasmas, constitute the partially ionized plasmas. This book discusses different aspects of partially ionized plasmas including multi-fluid description, equilibrium and types of waves. The discussion goes on to cover the reionization phase of the universe, along with a brief description of high discharge plasmas, tokomak plasmas and laser plasmas. Various elastic and inelastic collisions amongst the three particle species are also presented. In addition, the author demonstrates the novelty of partially ionized plasmas using many examples; for instance, in partially ionized plasma the magnetic induction is subjected to the ambipolar diffusion and the Hall effect, as well as the usual resistive dissipation. Also included is an observation of kinematic dynamo in partially ionized plasmas.
A cluster of patients with rhabdomyolysis after eating crayfish
Authors: Yang Wen-Xuan , Fan Kit-Ling , Leung Ling-Pong
Published: September 2017

Crayfish or Procambarus clarkii is a freshwater crustacean with worldwide distribution. Tons of crayfish are consumed each year. In this report, four adult patients with rhabdomyolysis after consuming crayfish were described. All of them presented to the emergency department with myalgia. The diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis was supported by an elevated creatine kinase level. All recovered with supportive treatment. The clinical picture of these 4 patients was compatible with Haff disease. Haff disease is a syndrome in which rhabdomyolysis develops subsequent to consumption of certain cooked seafood. Crayfish is a common culprit. Diagnosis depends on obtaining a diet history and creatine kinase level. Most patients recover uneventfully with supportive treatment for rhabdomyolysis.
TEST VECTORS FOR LOCAL CUSPIDAL RANKIN–SELBERG INTEGRALS
Authors: KURINCZUK ROBERT , MATRINGE NADIR
Published: September 2017

Let $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}_{1},\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}_{2}$be a pair of cuspidal complex, or $\ell$-adic, representations of the general linear group of rank $n$over a nonarchimedean local field $F$of residual characteristic $p$, different to $\ell$. Whenever the local Rankin–Selberg $L$-factor $L(X,\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}_{1},\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}_{2})$is nontrivial, we exhibit explicit test vectors in the Whittaker models of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}_{1}$and $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}_{2}$such that the local Rankin–Selberg integral associated to these vectors and to the characteristic function of $\mathfrak{o}_{F}^{n}$is equal to $L(X,\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}_{1},\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}_{2})$. As an application we prove that the $L$-factor of a pair of banal $\ell$-modular cuspidal representations is the reduction modulo $\ell$of the $L$-factor of any pair of $\ell$-adic lifts.
Introduction—What is Preservation?
Authors: Brusius Mirjam
Published: September 2017

Tangible “heritage” (artifacts, buildings, and sites) has always played key roles in identity and nation-building in the Middle East. As countries in the Middle East face unprecedented disorder and violence we lack more nuanced answers to what preservation was, is, and what it can be in the future. This roundtable—initiated as a session at the Middle East Studies Association's annual meeting in 2016—offers a much-needed perspective and critical voice in a debate that has become increasingly monolithic. In other words, current notions of what “cultural heritage” is and how it should be preserved are limited and often dismiss the limitations, complexities and ironies of iconoclasm. Objects seen as valuable by some but “idolatrous” to others, for example, have sometimes been destroyed precisely because they were considered worthy of preservation by opposing parties. Further, preservation and destruction were rarely exclusive binaries, but rather connected and identified in crucial ways. They are, in other words, two sides of the same coin: Archaeological excavation has destroyed buildings and deposits in strata above selected layers or artifacts, often removing sites that are meaningful in other ways, such as Islamic shrines.
Plasticity in host utilization by two host-associated populations ofAphis gossypiiGlover
Authors: Barman A.K. , Gadhave K.R. , Dutta B. , Srinivasan R.
Published: September 2017

Biological and morphological plasticity in polyphagous insect herbivores allow them to exploit diverse host plant species. Geographical differences in resource availability can lead to preferential host exploitation and result in inconsistent host specialization. Biological and molecular data provide insights into specialization and plasticity of such herbivore populations. In agricultural landscapes,Aphis gossypiiencounters several crop and non-crop hosts, which exist in temporal and spatial proximity. We investigated the host-specialization of twoA. gossypiihost-associated populations (HAPs), which were field collected from cotton and squash (cotton-associated population and melon-associated population), and later maintained separately in the greenhouse. The two aphid populations were exposed to seven plant species (cotton, okra, watermelon, squash, cucumber, pigweed, and morning glory), and evaluated for their host utilization plasticity by estimating aphid's fitness parameters (nymphal period, adult period, fecundity, and intrinsic rate of increase). Four phenotypical characters (body length, head capsule width, hind tibia length and cornicle length) were also measured from the resulting 14 different HAP × host plant combinations. Phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial COI sequences showed no genetic variation between the two HAPs. Fitness parameters indicated a significant variation between the two aphid populations, and the variation was influenced by host plants. The performance of melon-aphids was poor (up to 89% reduction in fecundity) on malvaceous hosts, cotton and okra. However, cotton-aphids performed better on cucurbitaceous hosts, squash and watermelon (up to 66% increased fecundity) compared with the natal host, cotton. Both HAPs were able to reproduce on two weed hosts. Cotton-aphids were smaller than melon-aphids irrespective of their host plants. Results from this study suggest that the two HAPs in the study area do not have strict host specialization; rather they exhibit plasticity in utilizing several hosts. In this scenario, it is unlikely that host-associatedA. gossypiipopulations would evolve into host-specific biotypes.
First Impressions: Henry George Ward'sMexico in 1827
Authors: FOWLER WILL
Published: September 2017

Henry George Ward'sMexico in 1827(published in 1828) is one of the most exhaustive accounts of Mexico and its mining activities in the years following its independence from Spain. Written with a meticulous attention to detail, it provided a unique first-hand interpretation both of Mexico's early governments’ achievements and of the not insignificant problems they had as yet to overcome. It highlighted the risks and opportunities Mexico presented to potential British investors and emphasised the benefits of free trade, the need for patience, and how important it was to become meaningfully acquainted with the country before investing in one or several ventures there. This study provides for the first time an analysis of Ward's two-volume survey-cum-travelogue. It shows how Ward's cautiously optimistic appraisal faithfully reflected the short-lived hopes of Guadalupe Victoria's 1824–9 government and provides a sympathetic account of the young republic that would prove anything but common in subsequent British representations of Mexico, as the country's inability to service the London debt and its ensuing instability went on to hinder British–Mexican relations for the greater part of the nineteenth century.
In the Days of Noah:Urzeit/EndzeitCorrespondence and the Flood Tradition in 1 Peter 3–4
Authors: Marcar Katie
Published: September 2017

Much Petrine scholarship has focused on unravelling the Enochic traditions in 1 Pet 3.18–20. However, these investigations have largely overlooked the role of Noah and the flood in 1 Peter. This article seeks to rectify this deficiency by examining how Second Temple Jewish and early Christian texts used the primeval flood as a paradigm for the eschaton, a clear example ofUrzeit/Endzeitcorrespondence. Once the Petrine use of the flood traditions is interpreted in this light, new solutions emerge not only for this difficult text, but also for the larger section of 1 Peter 3–4. Four specific points of correspondence are investigated: first, the righteousness of Noah as the righteousness of Christ (and also, believers); second, the wickedness of the flood generation as the wickedness of contemporary Gentile society; third, Noah's preaching to the flood generation as believers’ witness to their countrymen; and finally, the opportunity of repentance during Noah's lifetime as a similar opportunity for mission in contemporary Asia Minor. A robust understanding of the Noah traditions paves the way for a clearer understanding of the apocalyptic character of 1 Peter and its contemporary application to the Christians of Asia Minor.
New perspectives on language and gender: Linguistic prescription and compliance in call centres
Authors: Hultgren Anna Kristina
Published: September 2017

Despite a shift to service-based economies, male-dominated, high-status workplaces have been the predominant focus of research into language and gender in the workplace. This study redresses this shortcoming by considering one female-dominated, low-status, highly regimented workplace that is emblematic of the globalized service economy: call centres. Drawing on 187 call centre service interactions, institutional documents, interviews, and observations from call centres in two national contexts, the study employs an innovative combination of quantitative and qualitative discourse-analytic techniques to compare rule compliance of male and female workers. Female agents in both national contexts are found to comply more with the linguistic prescriptions despite managers and agents emphatically denying the relevance of gender. The study offers a new perspective on language and gender, pointing to the need to expand the methodologies and theories currently favoured to understand how language perpetuates occupational segregation in twenty-first-century workplaces. (Call centres, language and gender, new perspectives, male/female differences, globalized service economy)*