bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ultraviolet B inflammation model: Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and validation of a reduced UVB exposure paradigm for inducing hyperalgesia in healthy subjects
Authors: Siebenga Pieter S. , van Amerongen Guido , Klaassen Erica S. , de Kam Marieke L. , Rissmann Robert , Groeneveld Geert Jan
Published: December 2018

Background

Pain models are commonly used in drug development to demonstrate analgesic activity in healthy subjects and should therefore not cause long‐term adverse effects. The ultraviolet B (UVB) model is a model for inflammatory pain in which three times the minimal erythema dose (3MED) is typically applied to induce sensitization. Based on reports of long‐lasting postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) associated with 3MED, it was decided to investigate the prevalence of PIH among subjects who were previously exposed to 3MED at our research centre. In addition, re‐evaluation of the UVB inflammation model using a reduced exposure paradigm (2MED) was performed in healthy subjects.

Methods

In the first study, all 142 subjects previously exposed to 3MED UVB were invited for a clinical evaluation of PIH. In the second study, 18 healthy subjects were exposed to 2MED UVB, and heat pain detection threshold (PDT) and PIH were evaluated.

Results

In total, 78 of the 142 subjects responded. The prevalence of PIH among responders was 53.8%. In the second study, we found a significant and stable difference in PDT between UVB‐exposed and control skin 3 hr after irradiation; 13 hr post‐irradiation, the least squares mean estimate of the difference in PDT ranged from −2.6°C to −4.5°C (p < 0.0001). Finally, the prevalence of PIH was lower in the 2MED group compared to the 3MED group.

Conclusions

The 3MED model is associated with a relatively high prevalence of long‐lasting PIH. In contrast, 2MED exposure produces stable hyperalgesia and has a lower risk of PIH and is therefore recommended for modelling inflammatory pain.

Significance

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation is an unwanted long‐term side effect associated with the UVB inflammation model using the 3× minimal erythema dose (3MED) paradigm. In contrast, using a 2MED paradigm results in hyperalgesia that is stable for 36 hr and has a lower risk of inducing postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Spinal cord stimulation for chronic refractory pain: Long‐term effectiveness and safety data from a multicentre registry
Authors: Brinzeu Andrei , Cuny Emmanuel , Fontaine Denys , Mertens Patrick , Luyet Pierre‐Philippe , Van den Abeele Carine , Djian Marie‐Christine ,   on behalf of the French SCS Study Group
Published: December 2018

Background

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an established therapy for refractory neuropathic pain. To ascertain the balance between treatment benefits and risks, the French National Authority for Health requested a post‐market registry for real‐world evaluation of the long‐term effectiveness and safety of the therapy.

Methods

A total of 402 patients undergoing implantation with a Medtronic SCS device as either a primo‐implant (n = 264) or replacement implant (n = 138) were enrolled across 28 representative sites in France. Outcome measures at 2 years included pain intensity, satisfaction with treatment, improvement of pain relief and daily life activity, willingness to undergo the treatment again and use of pain treatments. A patient was considered a responder if, compared to baseline, predominant pain reduction was ≥50%.

Results

At the 2‐year follow‐up visit, predominant pain intensity for primo‐implant patients had decreased from baseline (p < 0.001), with responder rates of 55%, 36% and 67% for the lower limbs, back and upper limbs, respectively. Most patients acknowledged an improvement in pain relief (89%) and daily life activity (82%) were satisfied with treatment (91%) and willing to undergo the treatment again (93%). A significant decrease (p < 0.01) in the proportion of patients receiving pain treatment was observed for all drug and non‐drug treatments. Reported adverse events were in line with the literature. Pain intensity at 2 years was comparable for patients in the replacement group, supporting the long‐term stability and effectiveness of SCS.

Conclusion

Real‐world evaluation of the use of spinal cord stimulation under the recommendations of the French Health Authority shows that two years after the first implantation of an SCS device close to 60% of the patients retain a significant pain reduction and 74% show improvement in pain scores [of at least 30%] with significant decreases in drug and non‐drug pain treatments.

Significance

This observational, prospective study in a real‐life setting followed a large cohort of patients suffering from chronic pain and implanted with SCS devices in France. The study assessed the long‐term effectiveness and safety of SCS therapy in a representative sample of implanting sites in France.
Confinement effects on DNA hybridization in electrokinetic micro‐ and nanofluidic systems
Authors: Downs Alex M. , McCallum Christopher , Pennathur Sumita
Published: December 2018

Spatial confinement, within cells or micro‐ and nanofabricated devices, impacts the conformation and binding kinetics of biomolecules. Understanding the role of spatial confinement on molecular behavior is important for comprehending diverse biological phenomena, as well as for designing biosensors. Specifically, the behavior of molecular binding under an applied electric field is of importance in the development of electrokinetic biosensors. Here, we investigate whether confinement of DNA oligomers in capillary electrophoresis impacts the binding kinetics of the DNA. To infer the role of confinement on hybridization dynamics, we perform capillary electrophoresis measurements on DNA oligomers within micro‐ and nanochannels, then apply first‐order reaction dynamics theory to extract kinetic parameters from electropherogram data. We find that the apparent dissociation constants at the nanoscale (i.e., within a 100 nm channel) are lower than at the microscale (i.e., within a 1 μm channel), indicating stronger binding with increased confinement. This confirms, for the first time, that confinement‐based enhancement of DNA hybridization persists under application of an electric field.
Multiple infection of cells changes the dynamics of basic viral evolutionary processes
Authors: Wodarz Dominik , Levy David N. , Komarova Natalia L.
Published: December 2018

The infection of cells by multiple copies of a given virus can impact viral evolution in a variety of ways, yet some of the most basic evolutionary dynamics remain underexplored. Using computational models, we investigate how infection multiplicity affects the fixation probability of mutants, the rate of mutant generation, and the timing of mutant invasion. An important insight from these models is that for neutral and disadvantageous phenotypes, rare mutants initially enjoy a fitness advantage in the presence of multiple infection of cells. This arises because multiple infection allows the rare mutant to enter more target cells and to spread faster, while it does not accelerate the spread of the resident wild-type virus. The rare mutant population can increase by entry into both uninfected and wild-type-infected cells, while the established wild-type population can initially only grow through entry into uninfected cells. Following this initial advantageous phase, the dynamics are governed by drift or negative selection, respectively, and a higher multiplicity reduces the chances that mutants fix in the population. Hence, while increased infection multiplicity promotes the presence of neutral and disadvantageous mutants in the short-term, it makes it less likely in the longer term. We show how these theoretical insights can be useful for the interpretation of experimental data on virus evolution at low and high multiplicities. The dynamics explored here provide a basis for the investigation of more complex viral evolutionary processes, including recombination, reassortment, as well as complementary/inhibitory interactions.
Alkoxy(tetraaryl)silicates bearing 9,10‐disilatriptycene skeleton
Authors: Ishida Shintaro , Takiguchi Minori , Iwamoto Takeaki
Published: December 2018

As anionic five‐coordinate silicon species (five‐coordinate silicates) exhibit high reactivity and unique fluxional behavior, their structure and property have received substantial attention. We report herein synthesis, structure, and fluxional behavior of alkoxy(tetraaryl)silicates having the 9,10‐disilatriptycene skeleton (6− and 7−). The molecular structure of the cryptate salt [Li(crypt‐222)]+7− shows that the five‐coordinate silicon adopts a distorted trigonal bipyramidal structure with oxygen atom occupying an equatorial position. In the 1H and 13C{1H} NMR spectra of [Li(crypt‐222)]+7−, a set of signals due to o‐phenylene blades in 7− was observed at room temperature, which indicates fluxional behavior of 7− on the NMR timescale. Computational study suggests that the observed process proceeds via a 120° rotation of bidentate ligand around the Si‐Si axis that consists of two sequential Berry pseudorotations.
AHNS Series – Do you know your guidelines?: Assessment and management of malnutrition in patients with head and neck cancer: Review of the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines In Oncology (NCCN Guidelines)
Authors: Gill Amarbir , Givi Babak , Moore Michael G.
Published: December 2018

This article is a part of the “Do you know your guidelines” series by the Education Committee of the American Head and Neck Society. The aim is to summarize the core principles outlined by the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines In Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®) on management of malnutrition in patients with head and neck cancer. We outline the current recommendations from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®) for the screening and management of malnutrition, including indications for nutritional supplementation and placement of a nasogastric or gastrostomy tube. We also include a brief review of the available literature on additional screening tools, alternative guidelines, as well as an update on the emerging data surrounding the use of immune‐enhancing nutrition.
Lateral cervical approach for open laryngeal surgery: Technical notes
Authors: Spriano Giuseppe , Mercante Giuseppe , Anelli Andrea , Cristalli Giovanni , Ferreli Fabio
Published: December 2018

Background

Transoral minimally invasive techniques for laryngeal cancer have been proposed to preserve healthy tissues. The aim of this study was to describe a minimally invasive procedure for all laryngectomies with/without neck dissection using a lateral cervical approach.

Methods

A monolateral or bilateral neck incision at the level of the anterior border of the sterno‐cleido‐mastoid muscle is performed in accordance with the side of the neck dissection. The harvesting of an anterior myocutaneous (AMC) cervical flap, including skin, platysma, fascia superficialis, anterior jugular veins, homohyoid and sternohyoid muscles is performed. A neck dissection is executed through the same skin incision. Contraindication is represented by extralaryngeal spread with the involvement of the strap muscles. Supra‐hyoid, sternohyoid, and homohyoid muscles and hyoid bone are preserved.

Conclusion

Open partial/total laryngectomies through a lateral cervical approach are feasible and safe. This surgical access with an AMS cervical flap allows to simultaneously perform neck dissections and the removal of the entire laryngeal specimen.
High pretreatment neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio as a predictor of poor survival prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Lin , Huang Yu , Zhou Lie , Dai Yuhong , Hu Guangyuan
Published: December 2018

Background

The prognostic roles of neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have been reported in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), but their results remain controversial.

Methods

A total of 25 literatures with 28 cohorts involving 6847 HNSCC patients were included. The hazard ratio (HR) was pooled with 95% confidence interval (CI) using fixed‐effects or random‐effects models.

Results

High pretreatment NLR predicted poor overall survival (OS: HR = 1.68; 95% CI = 1.39‐2.03; P < .001), disease‐free survival (DFS: HR = 1.76; 95% CI = 1.42‐2.17; P < .001), progression‐free survival (PFS: HR = 1.53; 95% CI = 1.09‐2.14; P = .014), and cancer‐specific survival (CSS: HR = 1.45; 95% CI = 1.23‐1.71; P < .001) in HNSCC. However, the association between PLR and OS or DFS was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The NLR can serve as a potential prognostic biomarker for patients with HNSCC.
Prognostic and clinicopathological significance of CTTN/cortactin alterations in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ramos‐García Pablo , González‐Moles Miguel Ángel , Ayén Ángela , González‐Ruiz Lucía , Ruiz‐Ávila Isabel , Gil‐Montoya José Antonio
Published: December 2018

Background

To evaluate the prognostic significance of CTTN/cortactin alterations in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Material and methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus for studies published before May 2018. We conducted a meta‐analysis to quantify the impact of CTTN/cortactin alterations on clinicopathological and survival variables.

Results

Eighteen studies (1633 patients) met inclusion criteria. Quantitative evaluation revealed a strong association of CTTN/cortactin alterations with N+ status (P < .001), higher T status (P < .001), advanced clinical stage (P < .001), high histological grade (P = .001), and lower overall survival (OS) (P < .001). We found heterogeneity in T status, histological grade, and OS and observed small‐study effects on N status and OS. In subgroup analyses, a significant association of CTTN amplification and cortactin overexpression with the above variables was preserved. The strongest association between CTTN/cortactin alterations and a worse outcome was observed in the subgroups of Asian patients and pharyngolaryngeal squamous cell carcinomas.

Conclusions

CTTN/cortactin alterations should be evaluated to predict the HNSCC prognosis.
Characterization of Permanent Fouling on the Surfaces of UV Lamps Used for Wastewater Disinfection
Authors: Peng Ji , Qiu Yun , Gehr Ronald
Published: December 2018

A significant problem with UV disinfection of wastewater is the accumulation of fouling materials at sleeve‐water interfaces. It has been shown that automated chemical and/or mechanical cleaning can remove most fouling materials satisfactorily. However, permanent foulants, which cannot be removed completely by typical cleaning operations, always remain on the quartz sleeves. These permanent foulants reduce UV transmittance, in turn reducing disinfecting effectiveness. This research investigated the origins, formation, and composition of permanent fouling. Four instrumental analyses were used: atomic force microscope (AFM), X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscope combined with energy dispersive X‐ray microanalysis (SEM/EDX), and sleeve UV transmittance (SUVT). It appeared that permanent foulants were trapped initially by microscale holes and peaks on fresh sleeve surfaces. Based on the topography and roughness measurements from the AFM, after long‐term regular chemical and mechanical cleaning, the wipers of cleaning systems damage sleeve surfaces, creating scratches or holes with larger surface areas. Foulants are trapped more easily, and are attached tightly to the surfaces of these scratches or to each other. The results from XRF and SEM/EDX showed that the main fouling components were aluminum, iron, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. These could not be related to wastewater quality. For the specific cases studied, chemical plus mechanical cleaning is more effective in removing foulants and avoiding the accumulation of permanent foulants than mechanical cleaning alone; in most cases, SUVT was higher than 90% after chemical plus mechanical cleaning, whereas mechanical cleaning alone achieved only approximately 30% SUVT after long‐term usage.
Specificity and Potential Applications of the Biochemical Acidogenic Potential Method for the Anaerobic Characterization of Wastewater
Authors: Ruel S Martin , Ginestet P. , Comeau Y. , Héduit A.
Published: December 2018

The biochemical acidogenic potential (BAP) test is an anaerobic characterization method for wastewater. Fermentable organic fractions are obtained through modeling BAP test results. This method was compared to more common fractionation methods such as settling, coagulation, and respirometry, but no direct relationship was found. Biochemical acidogenic potential testing was thus considered to bring new and complementary information. The settleable matter accounted for approximately 50% of the fermentable matter, with a rate comparable to that of aerobic hydrolysis, suggesting a potential assimilable carbon source that could be liberated in sewers or in anaerobic processes. It was also observed that respirometry could underestimate the amount of fermentable substrates while overestimating that of hydrolyzable matter and of heterotrophic biomass involved in anaerobic processes. The BAP fractions are related to the wastewater capacity to produce volatile fatty acids, which are the main substrates of the microorganisms responsible for enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR). The potential contribution of the BAP fractionation to assist the design, operation, and modeling of the activated‐sludge EBPR processes was discussed.
Event‐Based Stormwater Quality and Quantity Loadings from Elevated Urban Infrastructure Affected by Transportation
Authors: Sansalone John J. , Hird Jonathan P. , Cartledge Frank K. , Tittlebaum Marty E.
Published: December 2018

Urban‐rainfall runoff affected by transportation is a complex matrix of a very wide gradation of particulate matter (<1 to >10 000 μm) and dissolved inorganic and organic constituents. Particulate matter transported by rainfall runoff can be a significant vector for many reactive particulate‐bound constituents, particularly metal elements. The water quality and hydrology of nine events from a representative elevated section of Interstate 10 (I‐10) (eastbound average daily traffic load of 70 400 vehicles) in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, were characterized and compared with respect to the passage of each hydrograph. Residence time on the paved concrete surface was less than 30 minutes for all events. Results indicate that event‐mean concentrations (EMCs) of particulate matter as total‐suspended solids (TSS) (138 to 561 mg/L) and chemical‐oxygen demand (COD) (128 to 1440 mg/L) were greater than those found in untreated municipal wastewater from the same service area. Particulate‐matter dissolution and COD partitioned as a function of pH, pavement residence time, and organic content. In general, delivery of mass for aggregate indices, such as particulate matter (measured as TSS) and COD mass, were driven by the hydrology of the event, while concentrations of aggregate‐constituent measurements, such as total‐dissolved solids (TDS), illustrated an exponential‐type decline during the rising limb of the hydrograph. Despite the short residence times, wide solids gradation, partitioning, and complexity of the rainfall‐runoff chemistry, conductivity and dissolved solids were strongly correlated. Characterization of the transport and loads of constituents in urban‐rainfall runoff, as a function of hydrology, is a necessary first step when considering treatability, structural or nonstructural controls, and mass trading for discharges from paved infrastructure.
Effect of a Starch‐Rich Industrial Wastewater on the Acid‐Phase Anaerobic Digestion Process
Authors: Elefsiniotis Panagiotis , Wareham David G. , Smith Marcus O.
Published: December 2018

This research investigated the effect of varying the starch‐rich, industrial‐wastewater component of mixtures with municipal wastewater fed to an anaerobic digester. A laboratory‐scale, completely‐mixed anaerobic digester was operated at an HRT of 30 h, an SRT of 10 d, and an ambient temperature of 21.5 ± 1.5 °C. The industrial‐to‐municipal ratios tested were 1:3, 1:1, 3:1, and 100% industrial by volume. Steady‐state, acidogenic conditions were achieved for all runs, except 100% industrial. The pH was observed to drop substantially as the industrial constituent of the feed increased. Net volatile fatty acids (VFA) production reached a plateau of approximately 800 mg/L at ratios of 1:1 and higher, while volatile suspended solids (VSS) reduction steadily increased as the industrial component rose. The specific VFA and soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD) production rates leveled off at approximately 0.070 mgVFA/mgVSS·d and 0.124 mgSCOD/mgVSS·d, respectively, for all the mixtures investigated, except for 100% industrial. In this latter case, both rates dropped dramatically. Finally, acetic and propionic acid concentrations fell as the industrial proportion of the mixture increased. This was compensated by a rise in butyric acid production.
Hybrid Process for Heavy Metal Removal from Wastewater Sludge
Authors: Drogui Patrick , Blais Jean‐François , Mercier Guy
Published: December 2018

Bioleaching processes have been demonstrated to be effective technologies in removing heavy metals from wastewater sludge, but long hydraulic retention times are typically required to operate these bioprocesses. A hybrid process (coupling biological and chemical processes) has been explored in laboratory pilot‐scale experiments for heavy metals (cadmium [Cd], copper [Cu], chromium [Cr], and zinc [Zn]) removal from three types of sludge (primary sludge, secondary activated sludge, and a mixture of primary and secondary sludge). The hybrid process consisted of producing a concentrate ferric ion solution followed by chemical treatment of sludges. Ferric iron solution was produced biologically via oxidation of ferrous iron by A. ferrooxidans in a continuous‐flow stirred tank (5.2 L) reactor (CSTR). Wastewater sludge filtrate (WSF) containing nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen) has been used as culture media to support the growth and activity of indigenous iron‐oxidizing bacteria. Results showed that total organic carbon (TOC) concentrations of the culture media in excess of 235 mg/L were found to be inhibitory to bacterial growth. The oxidation rate increased as ferrous iron concentrations ranged from 10 to 40 g Fe2+/L. The percentage of ferrous iron (Fe2+) oxidized to ferric iron (Fe3+) increased as the hydraulic retention time (HRT) increased from 12 to 48 h. Successful and complete Fe2+ oxidation was recorded at a HRT of 48 h using 10 g Fe2+/L. Subsequently, ferric ion solution produced by A. ferrooxidans in sludge filtrate was used to solubilize heavy metals contained in wastewater sludge. The best solubilization was obtained with a mixture of primary and secondary sludge, demonstrating a removal efficiency of 63, 71, 49, and 80% for Cd, Cu, Cr, and Zn, respectively.
Changes in the Biochemical Oxygen Demand Procedure in the 21st Edition of Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater
Authors: Young James C. , Clesceri Lenore S. , Kamhawy Sabry M.
Published: December 2018

The dilution biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) test has widespread application for design and operation of wastewater treatment processes, evaluating the quality of natural waters, and assessing the effect of wastewater discharges on these waters. While standardization of the BOD‐measuring method has become of prime importance in maintaining dependable data acquisition, changes are made as needed in response to questions raised by analysts and to accommodate new applications. The purpose of this article is to describe changes that have been incorporated in the 20th and 21st editions of Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater (APHA et al., 1998 and 2004). These changes include changes in text format to clarify the procedural steps, allowance for use of bottle sizes ranging from 60 mL or larger, improvements in quality‐control procedures, and improvements in the method of calculating BOD. Other changes include allowance for the use of allylthiourea for nitrification inhibition and broadening the source of seed that can be used for inoculation of BOD samples.
Removal of Chromium from Synthetic Plating Waste by Zero‐Valent Iron and Sulfate‐Reducing Bacteria
Authors: Guha Saumyen , Bhargava Puja
Published: December 2018

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the potential of zero‐valent iron and sulfate‐reducing bacteria (SRB) for reduction and removal of chromium from synthetic electroplating waste. The zero‐valent iron shows promising results as a reductant of hexavalent chromium (Cr+6) to trivalent chromium (Cr+3), capable of 100% reduction. The required iron concentration was a function of chromium concentration in the waste stream. Removal of Cr+3 by adsorption or precipitation on iron leads to complete removal of chromium from the waste and was a slower process than the reduction of Cr+6. Presence SRB in a completely mixed batch reactor inhibited the reduction of Cr+6. In a fixed‐bed column reactor, SRB enhanced chromium removal and showed promising results for the treatment of wastes with low chromium concentrations. It is proposed that, for waste with high chromium concentration, zero‐valent iron is an efficient reductant and can be used for reduction of Cr+6. For low chromium concentrations, a SRB augmented zero‐valent iron and sand column is capable of removing chromium completely.
False Positive Fecal Coliform in Biosolid Samples Assayed using A‐1 Medium
Authors: Baker Katherine H. , Redmond Brady , Herson Diane S.
Published: December 2018

Two most probable number (MPN) methods—lauryl tryptose broth with Escherichia coli broth confirmation and direct A‐1 broth incubation (A‐1)—were compared for the enumeration of fecal coliform in lime‐treated biosolid. Fecal coliform numbers were significantly higher using the A‐1 method. Analysis of positive A‐1 tubes, however, indicated that a high percentage of these were false positives. Therefore, the use of A‐1 broth for 40 CFR Part 503 Pathogen Reduction (CFR, 1993) compliance testing is not recommended.
Effect of Humification Processes on Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons Concentration During Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Sułkowski Wiesław W. , Polak Justyna , Miształ Iwona , Miształ Jarosław , Bartoszek Mariola , Sułkowska Anna
Published: December 2018

The aim of the present work was to compare the concentration changes of polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and the course of humification processes during wastewater treatment. Studies of samples from a biological‐mechanical wastewater treatment plant in Sosnowiec‐Zagórze (Poland) were carried out. Determination of PAH was performed both for wastewater sludge and sludge water. Observations of the course of humification processes for humic acid fractions isolated from sludges were conducted.    Analysis of PAH extracted from wastewaters and from sludge was performed by means of high‐performance liquid chromatography. Investigations of humification processes were conducted by electron paramagnetic resonance and nuclear magnetic resonance methods. The elementary composition changes in the structure of the extracted humic acids were determined.    It was found that polyaromatic hydrocarbons appear during the processes of humification. Their content in water decreased only after the process of sludge aeration; however, sludge water leaving the settlers was PAH‐enriched.
Modeling the Aerobic Metabolism of Polyphosphate‐Accumulating Organisms Enriched with Propionate as a Carbon Source
Authors: Oehmen Adrian , Zeng Raymond J. , Keller Jürg , Yuan Zhiguo
Published: December 2018

In enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) systems, polyphosphate‐accumulating organisms (PAOs) are primarily responsible for removing phosphate from wastewater. Propionate is an abundant carbon substrate in many EBPR plants and has been suggested to provide PAOs an advantage over their carbon competitors—the glycogen‐accumulating organisms (GAOs). The aerobic metabolism of PAOs enriched with a propionate carbon source is studied in this paper. A metabolic model is proposed and experimentally validated to characterize the aerobic biochemical transformations by PAOs. The model predicts very well the experimental data obtained from the enriched PAO culture through solid‐, liquid‐, and gas‐phase analyses. This model may be combined with previously formulated metabolic models to better describe the biochemical activity of PAOs with acetate and propionate as the primary carbon sources. Furthermore, it can also facilitate the study of the effect of different carbon sources on PAO–GAO competition.
Portable spectroscopic system for in vivo skin neoplasms diagnostics by Raman and autofluorescence analysis
Authors: Khristoforova Yulia A. , Bratchenko Ivan A. , Myakinin Oleg O. , Artemyev Dmitry N. , Moryatov Alexander A. , Orlov Andrey E. , Kozlov Sergey V. , Zakharov Valery P.
Published: December 2018

The present paper studies the applicability of a portable cost‐effective spectroscopic system for the optical screening of skin tumors. in vivo studies of Raman scattering and autofluorescence (AF) of skin tumors with the 785 nm excitation laser in the near‐infrared region included malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and various types of benign neoplasms. The efficiency of the portable system was evaluated by comparison with a highly sensitive spectroscopic system and with the diagnosis accuracy of a human oncologist. Partial least square analysis of Raman and AF spectra was performed; specificity and sensitivity of various skin oncological pathologies detection varied from 78.9% to 100%. Hundred percent accuracy of benign and malignant skin tumors differentiation is possible only with a combined analysis of Raman and AF signals.
TEGDMA releasing in resin composites with different filler contents and its correlation with mitochondrial mediated cytotoxicity in human gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Liu Beilei , Gan Xueqi , Zhao Yuwei , Chen Junsheng , Yu Hongdou , Gao Jing , Yu Haiyang
Published: December 2018

Compositions of resin composite exhibit cytotoxicity, especially Triethylene‐glycol‐dimethacrylate (TEGDMA), yet the underlying mechanisms and its relationship with filler content are poorly understood. Here, specimens of five composites (VITA LC, VITA ZETA, Z350, Filtek P60, and AP‐X), containing different filler size and weight, were immersed into culture medium for 72 h. After TEGDMA quantification, the resin composite eluates were used to incubate HGFs. Cellular viability was evaluated. Total reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial ROS were detected to assess oxidative stress. Adenosine triphosphate and cytochrome c oxidase (CcO) activity, mitochondrial membrane potential and morphology, mitochondrial biogenesis regulators were analyzed to evaluate mitochondrial functions. Results showed that TEGDMA release negatively correlated to filler size and weight of tested composites. Although cell viability reduction was not significant, total and mitochondrial ROS production showed a positive relationship with the amount of TEGDMA in composite eluates. Furthermore, the expression of mitochondrial biogenesis markers and mitochondrial fusion protein, were markedly elevated in TEGDMA rich eluates, especially in VITA‐LC group, shown as elongated mitochondrial morphology and aberrant mitochondrial functions. Overall, TEGDMA could elute easier from those resin composites with less filler content and cause oxidative stress in HGFs via mitochondria dysregulation. These data can be instructive to optimize the synthesis of resin composites from the perspective of biocompatibility. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 1132–1142, 2019.
The dental monomer HEMA causes proteome changes in human THP‐1 monocytes
Authors: Samuelsen Jan Tore , Michelsen Vibeke Barman , Bruun Jack‐Ansgar , Dahl Jon E. , Jensen Einar , Örtengren Ulf
Published: December 2018

Resin‐based biomaterials are widely used in medical and dental treatment, and both clinicians and patients are exposed to the materials. The knowledge of toxicity is mainly based on in vitro studies at exposure concentrations that induce cell death. However, severe cell damage and cell death signaling may overshadow essential cellular events caused by a possible toxicant. For dental resins, the knowledge of interaction with living cells at more clinical relevant exposure doses is sparse. 2‐Hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) is a commonly used monomer in dental resins. Measuring cellular adaptation to HEMA at concentrations that did not reduce cell viability was the main focus of this study. Stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture was used to measure proteome changes in cultured THP‐1 cells exposed to HEMA. Western blotting verified the results. Cells exposed to HEMA increased their level of several cytoprotective proteins. The observed adaptation is compatible with increased oxidative burden caused by GSH depletion and the electrophilic characteristic of HEMA. The present approach to analyzing the toxic potential of HEMA yielded information on interactions with living cells is not previously reported. This detailed information is of great value to make better predictions of possible side effects in the clinic. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 851–859, 2019.
Different influences on mitochondrial function, oxidative stress and cytotoxicity of antibiotics on primary human neuron and cell lines
Authors: Xiao Yao , Xiong Ting , Meng Xiangping , Yu Danfang , Xiao Zheng , Song Lin
Published: December 2018

Although antibiotics are generally well tolerated, their toxic effects on the central nervous system have been gained attention. In this study, we systematically investigated the neuron toxicity of antibiotics from six different classes. We show that clinically relevant concentrations of metronidazole, tigecycline, azithromycin and clindamycin but not ampicillin or sulfamethoxazole induce apoptosis of human primary neuron cells and lines. Notably, tigecycline, azithromycin and clindamycin cause neuron cell oxidative damage whereas metronidazole has no effect on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, suggesting that metronidazole induces neuron death via ROS‐independent mechanism. Tigecycline, azithromycin and clindamycin induce mitochondrial dysfunctions via targeting different mitochondrial respiratory complexes, leading to mitochondrial membrane potential disruption and energy crisis. The deleterious effects of antibiotics are reversed by pretreatment of neuron cells with antioxidant. Our work highlights the different influences of antibiotics on mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative damage and cytotoxicity in neuron cells. We also provide a strategy to prevent the neurotoxicity.
Loperamide‐induced cardiotoxicity in rats: Evidence from cardiac and oxidative stress biomarkers
Authors: Olofinsan Kolawole A. , Ajala‐Lawal Rafiat A. , Ajiboye Taofeek O.
Published: December 2018

At therapeutic dose, loperamide is a safe over‐the‐counter antidiarrheal drug but could induce cardiotoxic effect at a supratherapeutic dose. In this study, we use cardiac and oxidative biomarkers to evaluate loperamide‐induced cardiotoxicity in rats. Rats were orally gavaged with 1.5, 3, or 6 mg/kg body weight (BW) of loperamide hydrochloride for 7 days. The results after 7 days administration of loperamide, revealed dose‐dependent increase (P < 0.05) in aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase‐MB, and serum concentration of cardiac troponin I, total homocysteine, and nitric oxide. A 50% decrease in antioxidant enzymes activity was observed at 6 mg/kg BW. Furthermore, malondialdehyde and fragmented DNA also increased significantly in the heart of the treatment groups. Loperamide provoked cardiotoxicity through oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and DNA fragmentation in rats. This study has provided a possible biochemical explanation for the reported cardiotoxicity induced by loperamide overdose.
Guided internet CBT versus “gold standard” depression treatments: An individual patient analysis
Authors: Forand Nicholas R. , Feinberg Jason E. , Barnett Jeffrey G. , Strunk Daniel R.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Guided, computerized cognitive behavioral therapy delivered over the internet (iCBT) is a promising treatment for depression. However, comparisons to “gold standard” treatments and comparators, such as structured psychotherapy, medications, or pill placebo are rare. We compare the results of an 8‐week trial of guided iCBT to outcomes from two trials of depression treatment, Penn‐Vandy and U. Washington, using individual patient data.

Method

We adjusted for sample differences by restricting the iCBT sample to randomised controlled trial (RCT) inclusion criteria and using propensity scores. Three separate samples were included in analyses: iCBT trial (N = 89), Penn‐Vandy (N = 240), and U. Washington (N = 241). Continuous outcomes were analyzed with linear‐mixed models and noninferiority analyses were conducted for iCBT versus the psychotherapy conditions. The primary outcomes were attrition, remission, and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression.

Results

Dropout was greater in iCBT than in CT, medications, placebo (Penn‐Vandy), and CT and BA (U. Washington), but the rates of remission were similar. In continuous analyses, iCBT was superior to placebo in both RCTs and most analyses indicated no difference between iCBT and the active treatments.

Conclusions

Guided iCBT appears not inferior to “gold standard” treatments for depression and is superior to placebo. Weaknesses include a lack of randomization, unblinded assessments, and a shorter “frame of treatment” in the iCBT sample.
The “me too” decision: An analog study of therapist self‐disclosure of psychological problems
Authors: McCormic Rebecca W. , Pomerantz Andrew M. , Ro Eunyoe , Segrist Daniel J.
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To test the exploratory hypothesis that client perceptions of therapists are most favorable when therapists self‐disclose their own personal experience with the same psychological problem to a moderate (vs. none, mild, or extreme) extent.

Method

Undergraduate participants (N = 104; 63.5% female) were randomly assigned to read one of the four vignettes, which differed only in the extent to which the therapist disclosed their own personal experience with the same presenting problem (none, mild, moderate, or extreme). Participants then responded to questions assessing their perceptions of the therapist.

Results

The data generally supported the hypothesis. The moderate disclosure condition yielded the most favorable client perceptions, which differed significantly from those yielded by the no disclosure condition.

Conclusions

Despite limitations and need for replication, this study provides perhaps the first empirical data regarding the effect of the extent, rather than the mere presence or absence, of therapist self‐disclosure regarding personal psychological experiences.
Seed micromorphology and its taxonomic evidence in subfamily Alsinoideae (Caryophyllaceae)
Authors: Ullah Fazal , Papini Alessio , Shah Syed Nasar , Zaman Wajid , Sohail Aamir , Iqbal Majid
Published: December 2018

Seed micromorphology of 13 species, belonging to four genera of subfamily Alsinoideae (Caryophyllaceae) were investigated with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), in order to assess their diagnostic significance at generic level and provide additional evidence on species delimitation, as well as correct identification and phylogenetic position. Genera and species of subfamily Alsinoideae exhibit great variation in ultrastructure and a high diversity of novel micromorphological characters were observed. Variation in seed shape, color, hilum, anticlinal wall, epidermal cell, cell surface, margins, and quantitative characters as length and width were studied in detail, compared, illustrated, and their taxonomic significant were discussed. Seed shapes of the species were classified as reniform, round, angular, subcircular, subreniform, and elliptical pyriform, with sub‐central, central, basal, and nearly basal hilum. Wavy, irregular, tetragonal, and elongated epidermal cells structure has been observed as an exomorphological character. The present findings show that the micromorphology of subfamily Alsinoideae provides taxonomic information and is helpful to distinguish different species. The results also explained that SEM morphology of seeds provide important data about affinity among taxa and give potential characters in delimitation of members of subfamily Alsinoideae at generic and species level. A principal component analysis allowed to highlight the most outsiders among seed micromorphology with a possible explanation. Taxonomic keys were developed based on micromorphological characters to delimit the species and useful for their quick identification within subfamily Alsinoideae.
Feasibility study of a single breath‐hold, 3D mDIXON pulse sequence for late gadolinium enhancement imaging of ischemic scar
Authors: Foley James R.J. , Fent Graham J. , Garg Pankaj , Broadbent David A. , Dobson Laura E. , Chew Pei G. , Brown Louise A.E. , Swoboda Peter P. , Plein Sven , Higgins David M. , Greenwood John P.
Published: December 2018

Background

Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) imaging is well validated for the diagnosis and quantification of myocardial infarction (MI). 2D LGE imaging involves multiple breath‐holds for acquisition of short‐axis slices to cover the left ventricle (LV). 3D LGE methods cover the LV in a single breath‐hold; however, breath‐hold duration is typically long with images susceptible to motion artifacts.

Purpose/Hypothesis

To assess a single breath‐hold 3D mDIXON LGE pulse sequence for image quality and quantitation of MI.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Ninety‐ two patients with prior MI.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T cardiac MRI protocol using both conventional 2D phase sensitive inversion recovery and 3D mDIXON LGE imaging 10 minutes following contrast administration in random order to avoid bias.

Assessment

Data were analyzed qualitatively for image quality (three observers). Quantitative assessment of myocardial scar mass (full‐width half‐maximum), scar transmurality, and contrast‐to‐noise ratio measurements were performed. Time for 2D and 3D LGE imaging was recorded.

Statistical Tests

Paired Student's t‐test, Wilcoxon rank test, Cohen κ statistic, Pearson correlation, linear regression, and Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

Image quality scores were comparable between 3D and 2D LGE (1.4 ± 0.6 vs. 1.3 ± 0.5; P = 0.162). 3D LGE was associated with greater scar tissue mass (3D: 18.9 ± 17.5 g vs. 2D: 17.8 ± 16.2 g P = 0.03), although this difference was less pronounced when scar tissue was expressed as %LV mass (3D: 13.4 ± 9.9% vs. 2D: 12.7 ± 9.5% P = 0.07). For 3D vs. 2D scar mass there was a strong and significant positive correlation; Bland–Altman analysis showed mean mass bias of 1.1 g (95% confidence interval [CI]: –5.7 to 7.9). Segmental level agreement of scar transmurality between 3D and 2D LGE at the clinical viability threshold of 50% transmurality was excellent (κ = 0.870). 3D image acquisition (15.6 ± 1.4 sec) was just 5% of time required for 2D images (311.6 ± 43.2 sec) P < 0.0001.

Data Conclusion

Single breath‐hold 3D mDIXON LGE imaging allows quantitative assessment of MI mass and transmurality, with comparable image quality, in vastly shorter overall acquisition time compared with standard 2D LGE imaging.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:1437–1445.
Electrospray multistage mass spectrometry in the negative ion mode for the unambiguous molecular and structural characterization of acidic hydrolysates from 4‐O‐methylglucuronoxylan generated by endoxylanases
Authors: Fouquet Thierry , Sato Hiroaki , Nakamichi Yusuke , Matsushika Akinori , Inoue Hiroyuki
Published: December 2018

A rapid analytical methodology is proposed to answer the two questions about the molecular and structural features of the acidic xylo‐oligosaccharides (XOSs) formed upon the enzymatic hydrolysis of 4‐O‐methylglucuronoxylan. The shortest acidic XOSs carrying a methylglucuronic acid moiety and the possible distribution of larger products (molecular feature) are instantly found by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) in the negative ion mode, which filters the unwanted neutral XOS. The acidic moiety is then unambiguously localized along the xylose backbone (structural feature) by ESI‐MSn in the negative ion mode via the selection/activation/dissociation of the product ions formed upon the one‐way and stepwise glycosidic bond cleavage at the reducing end. Using the shortest acidic XOS with a known shape generated by glycoside hydrolase family (GH) 10 and GH11 xylanases as a proof of principle, pairs of diagnostic ions are proposed to instantly interpret the MSn fingerprints and localize the acidic moiety along the xylose chain of the activated ion. The original structure of the acidic XOS is then reconstructed by adding as many xylose units at the reducing end as MSn steps. Relying on pairs of ions, the methodology is robust enough to highlight the presence of isomeric products. Mass spectra reported in the present article will be conveniently used as reference data for the forthcoming analysis of acidic XOS generated by new classes of enzymes using this multistage mass spectrometry methodology.
The missing link? Implications of internal, external, and relational attribution combinations for leader–member exchange, relationship work, self‐work, and conflict
Authors: Gardner William L. , Karam Elizabeth P. , Tribble Lori L. , Cogliser Claudia C.
Published: December 2018

Attributions are causal explanations made by individuals in response to important, novel, and/or unexpected events. Numerous attribution theories have examined how people use information to make attributions and how attributions impact an individual's subsequent emotions and outcomes. However, this research has only recently considered the implications of dyadic‐level attributions (i.e., relational attributions), particularly in the context of leader–follower relationships in organizations. Therefore, the purpose of this theoretical paper is threefold. First, we integrate research on attributional biases into the research on relational attributions. Second, we integrate and extend attribution theory to consider the implications of convergent and divergent internal, external‐person, external‐situational, and relational attributions for leader–member exchange (LMX) quality, relationship work, self‐work, and conflict. Third, we make the implicit ranking of attribution combinations and the resultant levels of relationship work explicit. In doing so, we contribute to attribution theory and research by proposing how attribution combinations produce positive and negative outcomes that are both intrapersonal and interpersonal. Further, we contribute to the LMX literature by explicating how leader–follower attribution combinations influence relationship quality.