bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LRRK2 N551K and R1398H variants are protective in Malays and Chinese in Malaysia: A case–control association study for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Gopalai Aroma Agape , Lim Jia Lun , Li Hui‐Hua , Zhao Yi , Lim Thien Thien , Eow Gaik B. , Puvanarajah Santhi , Viswanathan Shanthi , Norlinah Mohamed Ibrahim , Abdul Aziz Zariah , Lim Soo Kun , Tan Chong Tin , Tan Ai Huey , Lim Shen‐Yang , Tan Eng‐King , Ahmad Annuar Azlina
Published: September 2019

Background

The LRRK2 gene is associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) as a number of mutations within the gene have been shown to be susceptibility factors. Studies on various global populations have determined that mutations such as G2019S, G2385R, and R1628P in LRRK2 increase the risk of developing PD while the N551K‐R1398H haplotype is associated with conferring protection against developing PD. Here we report a study looking at the N551K and R1398H variants for the first time in the Malaysian population.

Methods

Cases (523) which conformed to the United Kingdom PD Brain Bank Criteria for PD were recruited through trained neurologists and age‐ and ethnically matched controls (491) were individuals free of any neurological disorder. The N551K and R1398H mutations were genotyped using the Taqman SNP genotyping assay.

Results

A significant protective association for N551K was found in those of Malay ancestry, with a protective trend seen for R1398H. A meta‐analysis of Chinese individuals in this cohort with other published cohorts of Chinese ancestry indicated a significant protective role for N551K and R1398H.

Conclusion

This study reports that the N551K‐R1398H haplotype is also relevant to the Malaysian population, with a significant protective effect found in those of Malay and Chinese ancestries.
Association between ACYP2 polymorphisms and the risk of renal cell cancer
Authors: Wang Yuhe , Zhang Yongtong , Sun Yao , Wu Jiamin , Chang Junke , Xiong Zichao , Niu Fanglin , Gu Shanzhi , Jin Tianbo
Published: September 2019

Background

Kidney cancer is the predominant form of malignancy of the kidney and accounts for approximately 3%–4% of all cancers. Renal cell cancer (RCC) represents more than 85% of kidney cancer. It has been reported that genetic factors may predispose individuals to RCC. This study evaluated the association between Acylphosphatase 2 (ACYP2) gene polymorphisms and RCC risk in the Han Chinese population.

Methods

Twelve single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ACYP2 were genotyped using the Agena MassARRAY platform from 293 RCC patients and 495 controls. The Chi‐squared test, genetic models, haplotype, and stratification analyses were used to evaluate the association between SNPs and the risk of RCC. The relative risk was estimated using the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

We observed that the rs6713088 allele G (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.03–1.53, p = .023) and rs843711 allele T (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.06–1.57, p = .010) were associated with increased RCC risk. Genetic model analyses found that rs843711 was significantly associated with an increased RCC risk under the recessive model and log‐additive model after adjusting for age and gender. Haplotype analysis showed that the haplotype “TTCTCGCC” (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.48–0.94, p = .021) was associated with a decreased risk of RCC in the Han Chinese population. Stratification analysis also found that rs6713088 and rs843711 were significantly associated with increased RCC risk.

Conclusion

In summary, the results suggested that ACYP2 polymorphisms could be used as a genetic marker for RCC. Additional functional and association studies are required to validate our results.
Effect of Oral Versus Intramuscular Vitamin D Replacement on Oxidative Stress and Outcomes in Traumatic Mechanical Ventilated Patients Admitted to Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Hasanloei Mohammad Amin Valizade , Rahimlou Mehran , Eivazloo Afsoon , Sane Shahryar , Ayremlou Parvin , Hashemi Reza
Published: September 2019

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 2 forms of vitamin D supplementation on oxidative stress and weaning from the ventilator in patients with traumatic injury and vitamin D deficiency.

Methods

Seventy‐two patients were randomly divided into 3 groups: receiving 50,000 IU pearl cholecalciferol daily for 6 days, 1 intramuscular injection of 300,000 IU of cholecalciferol, or a control group that did not receive any supplement. Duration of mechanical ventilation, body composition, and biochemical biomarkers were measured before and after the intervention.

Result

At the end of the study, the mean serum 25(OH)D increased in the intervention groups compared with the control group (P < .05). The interleukin 6, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C‐reactive protein levels, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, duration of mechanical ventilation, and length of intensive care unit admission significantly decreased; however, total antioxidant capacity concentration did not differ significantly between the 2 intervention groups. Among the body composition variables, extracellular water ratio changes were statically different in oral vitamin D group compared with the control group (P = .001). No side effects were reported with the supplements.

Conclusions

Vitamin D administration improved clinical signs and biochemical biomarkers in a small group of patients with traumatic injury. Well‐designed multicenter clinical studies with longer intervention duration are necessary for this field.
Brexpiprazole has a low risk of dopamine D2 receptor sensitization and inhibits rebound phenomena related to D2 and serotonin 5‐HT2A receptors in rats
Authors: Amada Naoki , Akazawa Hitomi , Ohgi Yuta , Maeda Kenji , Sugino Haruhiko , Kurahashi Nobuyuki , Kikuchi Tetsuro , Futamura Takashi
Published: September 2019

Background

Long‐term antipsychotic treatment in patients with schizophrenia can induce supersensitivity psychosis and tardive dyskinesia which is thought to be caused by dopamine D2 receptor sensitization. We evaluated the effects of brexpiprazole on D2 receptor sensitivity after subchronic treatment in rats. We also evaluated whether brexpiprazole could suppress enhanced response to D2 receptors in rats subchronically dosed with another atypical antipsychotic.

Methods

The maximum D2 receptor density (Bmax) and apomorphine (a D2 receptor agonist)‐induced stereotypy were measured in rats orally dosed with vehicle, haloperidol (1 mg/kg), or brexpiprazole (4 or 30 mg/kg for Bmax, 6 or 30 mg/kg for stereotypy) for 21 days. Then, effects of oral administrations of brexpiprazole (3 mg/kg), aripiprazole (10 mg/kg), and olanzapine (3 mg/kg) against increases in apomorphine‐induced hyperlocomotion and (±)‐2,5‐dimethoxy‐4‐iodoamphetamine hydrochloride (DOI: a 5‐HT2A receptor agonist)‐induced head twitches were evaluated in rats subcutaneously treated with risperidone (1.5 mg/kg/d) via minipumps for 21 days.

Results

Haloperidol and brexpiprazole (30 mg/kg: approximately tenfold ED50 of anti‐apomorphine‐induced stereotypy) but not brexpiprazole (4 or 6 mg/kg) significantly increased the Bmax and apomorphine‐induced stereotypy. Brexpiprazole (3 mg/kg) and olanzapine (3 mg/kg) significantly suppressed both increases in apomorphine‐induced hyperlocomotion and also DOI‐induced head twitches in rats subchronically treated with risperidone, but aripiprazole (10 mg/kg) significantly suppressed only apomorphine‐induced hyperlocomotion.

Conclusion

Brexpiprazole has a low risk of D2 receptor sensitization after a repeated administration and suppresses the rebound phenomena related to D2 and 5‐HT2A receptors after a repeated administration of risperidone.
Feasibility and acceptability of an animatronic duck intervention for promoting adaptation to the in‐patient setting among pediatric patients receiving treatment for cancer
Authors: Miller Tamara P. , Klosky James L. , Zamora Fernanda , Swift Megan , Mertens Ann C.
Published: September 2019

Background

During cancer treatment, children undergo potentially stressful hospitalizations and procedures. Animatronic devices are a promising means of distraction intervention. This study aimed to assess acceptability and feasibility of the My Special Aflac Duck® (MSAD) intervention among pediatric oncology patients and parents. We hypothesized that MSAD would be feasible to implement, have greater than 50% acceptance, and be useful distraction.

Procedures

This feasibility study enrolled oncology patients aged 3‐11 years admitted to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta between May and August 2018. Patients were exposed to MSAD for 3 days and completed quantitative and qualitative assessments of acceptability. Patient and hospital data were abstracted.

Results

Seventeen (80.9%) of 21 eligible patients enrolled; 64.7% were <7 years, 47% were female, 52.9% had leukemia, 41.2% had solid tumors, and 5.9% had brain tumors. Patients had 1‐12 previous admissions (mean 4.8, SD 3.1) and approximately 65% were planned hospitalizations. Approximately 69% reported MSAD helped reduce in‐patient distress and 93.7% were satisfied with MSAD overall. Child satisfaction was high. There were no significant differences in acceptability or satisfaction with MSAD based on age, gender, number of inpatient procedures or previous hospitalizations, or hospitalization reason. Qualitative interviews revealed patients liked expressing feelings with tokens and thought MSAD was a fun distraction.

Conclusions

MSAD implementation was feasible, and its acceptability was high among both patients and parents. MSAD shows potential as good distraction and an alternative means of communicating feelings. Future research should expand upon the effectiveness of MSAD on reducing distress.
Natural rubber nanocomposites with MWCNT@POSS hybrid filler: Preparation and properties
Authors: Somasekharan Lakshmipriya , Xavier Priti , Bose Suryasarathi , Zachariah Ajesh K. , Kalarikkal Nandakumar , Anil Kumar S. , Thomas Sabu
Published: September 2019

The use of hybrid fillers can replace conventional nanoparticles in the area of fabrication of nanocomposites due to their superior properties owing to the synergistic action from the individual components. Here we prepared for the first time, polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane and multiwalled carbon nanotube hybrid filler based natural rubber nanocomposites by two‐roll mill mixing method. The filler‐polymer interactions were studied from frequency sweep and strain sweep rheological measurements. The cure characteristics of the nanocomposites threw light into the effect of the nanofiller on vulcanization reactions and crosslinked networks. The transmission electron microscopic images provided information about the filler dispersion in the polymer matrix and could be correlated with the material properties. The mechanical properties of the composites were also examined which showed the extent of reinforcement provided by the hybrid filler on the NR matrix.
Multiple imputation for systematically missing confounders within a distributed data drug safety network: A simulation study and real‐world example
Authors: Secrest Matthew H. , Platt Robert W. , Reynier Pauline , Dormuth Colin R. , Benedetti Andrea , Filion Kristian B.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

In distributed data networks, some data sites may be systematically missing important confounders that are captured by other sites in the network (eg, body mass index [BMI]). Multiple imputation may help repair bias in these scenarios. However, multiple imputation has not been described for distributed data networks where data access restrictions prevent centralized analysis.

Methods

We conducted a simulation study and a real‐world analysis using the UK's Clinical Practice Research Datalink to evaluate multiple imputation for confounders that are systematically missing from a subset of data sites in mock distributed data networks. The simulation study addressed univariate missing data, while the real‐world analysis addressed multivariate missing data. Both studies were designed as retrospective cohort studies of the effect of current statin use on the risk of myocardial infarction among patients with newly treated type 2 diabetes.

Results

In our simulation study, multiple imputation repaired bias from missing BMI in all scenarios, with a median bias reduction of 118% in the default scenario. In our real‐world study, the multiply imputed analysis (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.69‐1.08) was closer to the analysis that considered the true confounder values (HR: 0.85; 95% CI, 0.66‐1.10) than the analysis that ignored them (HR: 0.93; 95% CI, 0.73‐1.20).

Conclusions

Multiple imputation adapted to distributed data settings is a feasible method to reduce bias from unmeasured but measurable confounders when at least one database contains the variables of interest. Further research is needed to evaluate its validity in real distributed data networks.
Parenteral Fosfomycin for the Treatment of Multidrug Resistant Bacterial Infections: The Rise of the Epoxide
Authors: Trinh Trang D. , Smith Jordan R. , Rybak Michael J.
Published: September 2019

Fosfomycin was initially discovered in 1969 but has recently gained renewed interest for the treatment of multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacterial infections, particularly in the United States. Its unique mechanism of action, bactericidal activity, broad spectrum of activity, and relatively safe and tolerable adverse effect profile make it a great addition to the dwindling antibiotic armamentarium. Fosfomycin contains a three‐membered epoxide ring with a direct carbon to phosphorous bond that bypasses the intermediate oxygen bond commonly present in other organophosphorous compounds; this structure makes the agent unique from other antibiotics. Despite nearly 50 years of parenteral fosfomycin use in Europe, fosfomycin has retained stable activity against most pathogens. Furthermore, fosfomycin demonstrated in vitro synergy in combination with other cell wall–active antibiotics (e.g., β‐lactams, daptomycin). These combinations may offer respite for severe infections due to MDR gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria. The intravenous (IV) formulation is currently under review in the United States, and apropos, this review collates more contemporary evidence (i.e., studies published between 2000 and early 2019) in anticipation of this development. The approval of IV fosfomycin provides another option for consideration in the management of MDR infections. Its unique structure will give rise to a promising epoxide epoch in the battle against MDR bacteria.
New stable colored complex of Al3+ with 1',3',3'‐trimethylspiro[2H‐1‐benzopyran‐2,2'‐indoline] (BIPS)
Authors: Levin Peter P. , Belikov Nikolay E. , Levina Irina I. , Tatikolov Alexander S. , Khodonov Andrey A. , Khudyakov Igor V.
Published: September 2019

Ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐vis) absorption, flash photolysis, and 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy were used to investigate the mechanism of formation and structure of complexes in the 1',3',3'‐trimethylspiro[2H‐1‐benzopyran‐2,2'‐indoline] (SP, also well known as BIPS) with Al3+ (inorganic salts) in ethanol (EtOH), methanol (MeOH), and in aqueous MeOH solutions. A labile (equilibrium constants ≤ 5000 M−1) complex of SP and Al3+ with broad absorption band in the UV‐vis with λmax = 380 nm appeared promptly in the presence of an excess of Al3+. The slow formation of a stable complex (SC) between Al3+ and two merocyanine (MC) forms of SP with an intensive absorption band at λmax = 430 nm is observed with a yield of 1.0 upon keeping the solutions of these two compounds at constant concentration ratio [Al3+] ≥[SP]/2 in the dark. The rate constants of such SC formation were close to the corresponding rate constant of the transformation of SP into MC in the dark (5.0×10−5‐1×10‐3 s‐1, depending upon the solvent). The photolysis of the SC with visible light (λ > 400 nm) results in the total conversion of the SC into SP. The SC forms promptly after the addition of Al3+ at concentrations of the same order as those of MC. This method allows detection of [Al3+] to concentrations as low as 50 nM. The kinetics and thermodynamic parameters of the SP and MC reactions and of their complex formation with Al3+ are discussed.
Tailored wettability of plasma polymers made of C–F, C–H, and N–H
Authors: Prysiazhnyi Vadym , Kratochvil Jiri , Stranak Vitezslav
Published: September 2019

New trends toward green technologies and broad utilization of polymers have led to intense research on surfaces with controlled wettability. This study demonstrates an easy method to control the wettability (estimated by static water contact angle [WCA]) of a polymer surface by introducing a proper ratio of C–F, C–H, and N–H bonds. The preparation method combines magnetron sputtering from a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) target and plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) from a nitrogen/acetylene mixture, making it environment‐friendly, unlike PECVD from hydrocarbons/fluorocarbons. The proposed method allows depositing plasma polymers with WCAs from 110° to 17° by varying only the gas composition. The corresponding plasma polymers consist of C:F (magnetron sputtering of PTFE), C:F:N:H (reactive magnetron sputtering and PECVD), and a‐C:H (PECVD from acetylene).
How rock glacier hydrology, deformation velocities and ground temperatures interact: Examples from the Swiss Alps
Authors: Kenner Robert , Pruessner Luisa , Beutel Jan , Limpach Philippe , Phillips Marcia
Published: September 2019

An increasing number of studies highlight the controlling influence of water on rock glacier deformation velocities. The link between the concept of water‐driven shearing processes and numerous observations of correlating mean annual air or ground temperatures and rock glacier velocities is discussed here. We present a dataset measured at the Schafberg rock glacier in the Eastern Swiss Alps, complemented by temperature data from three other rock glaciers in the Swiss Alps, which allowed us to reconstruct the processes influencing both mean annual ground temperatures and rock glacier deformation velocity. Rock glacier hydrology is the parameter linking rock glacier temperature and velocities and is a crucial influencing factor. The main external forcing parameter appart from mean annual air temperature is early winter snow coverage. The study shows that the concept of water being a controlling factor for rock glacier velocity is no contradiction to the observed correlations between air or ground temperature and rock glacier deformation.
Acute and chronic toxicity of acetamiprid, carbaryl, cypermethrin and deltamethrin to Apis mellifera larvae reared in vitro
Authors: Yang Yang , Ma Shilong , Liu Feng , Wang Qiang , Wang Xing , Hou Chunsheng , Wu Yanyan , Gao Jing , Zhang Li , Liu Yongjun , Diao Qingyun , Dai Pingli
Published: September 2019

Background

The effects of exposing Apis mellifera larvae to common insecticides were tested in the laboratory.

Results

The acute toxicity values of the four insecticides that we tested ranged from high toxicity to low toxicity: deltamethrin > cypermethrin > carbaryl > acetamiprid. The NOAEC (no observed adverse effect concentration) values of the chronic toxicity tests for each compound are 5 mg L−1 for acetamiprid, 2 mg L−1 for carbaryl, 1 mg L−1 for cypermethrin, and 0.2 mg L−1 for deltamethrin.

Conclusion

According to the risk quotient (RQ) values of acute and chronic toxicity that we obtained, the risk is acceptable at exposure rates that have been identified in the field. Overall, our results are valuable for evaluating the acute and chronic toxicities of these insecticides to developing honey bees. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluating 3D local descriptors and recursive filtering schemes for LIDAR‐based uncooperative relative space navigation
Authors: Kechagias‐Stamatis Odysseas , Aouf Nabil , Dubanchet Vincent
Published: September 2019

We propose a light detection and ranging (LIDAR)‐based relative navigation scheme that is appropriate for uncooperative relative space navigation applications. Our technique combines the encoding power of the three‐dimensional (3D) local descriptors that are matched exploiting a correspondence grouping scheme, with the robust rigid transformation estimation capability of the proposed adaptive recursive filtering techniques. Trials evaluate several current state‐of‐the‐art 3D local descriptors and recursive filtering techniques on a number of both real and simulated scenarios that involve various space objects including satellites and asteroids. Results demonstrate that the proposed architecture affords a 50% odometry accuracy improvement over current solutions, while also affording a low computational burden. From our trials we conclude that the 3D descriptor histogram of distances short (HoD‐S) combined with the adaptive αβ filtering poses the most appealing combination for the majority of the scenarios evaluated, as it combines high quality odometry with a low processing burden.
Surface characterization of polysaccharide scaffolds by inverse gas chromatography regarding application in tissue engineering
Authors: Coimbra Patrícia , Coelho Marta S.N. , Gamelas José A.F.
Published: September 2019

Scaffolds are of paramount importance in tissue engineering, providing support for cell attachment and allowing proliferation or differentiation, and production of extracellular matrix. Their surface properties are of major interest since in great part, they determine the biological response to the scaffold. In the present work, three chitosan‐based polyelectrolytes scaffolds, namely, 1:1 chitosan‐alginate (Chit‐Alg), chitosan‐pectin (Chit‐Pect), and chitosan‐carboxymethyl cellulose (Chit‐CMC), were studied with regard to their surface properties by inverse gas chromatography. The dispersive component of the surface energy, a measure of the ability of a material to establish Lifshitz Van der Waals interactions, was 47.8 mJ·m−2 for Chit‐Alg, 36.9 mJ·m−2 for Chit‐Pect, and 38.5 mJ·m−2 for Chit‐CMC (at 40°C). All the scaffolds surfaces had an amphoteric character, however, with an apparent prevalence of Lewis acidity over the Lewis basicity. These results have been interpreted in terms of the influence of the different substituent groups in the polysaccharides backbone. The porosities of the Chit‐Alg, Chit‐Pect, and Chit‐CMC scaffolds, assessed by mercury intrusion porosimetry, were found to be of 98%, 96%, and 84%, respectively.
Enhancing Oxygen Evolution Reaction through Modulating Electronic Structure of Trimetallic Electrocatalysts Derived from Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Li Yuwen , Zhao Tao , Lu Mengting , Wu Yuhang , Xie Yuanbo , Xu Hui , Gao Junkuo , Yao Juming , Qian Guodong , Zhang Qichun
Published: September 2019

The construction of efficient, durable, and non‐noble metal electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is of great value but challenging. Herein, a facile method is developed to synthesize a series of trimetallic (W/Co/Fe) metal–organic frameworks (MOFs)‐derived carbon nanoflakes (CNF) with various Fe content, and an Fe‐dependent volcano‐type plot can be drawn out for WCoFex
‐CNF. The optimized WCoFe0.3‐CNF (when the feed ratio of Fe/Co is 0.3) demonstrates superior electrocatalytic performance with a low overpotential of only 254 mV@10 mA cm−2 and excellent durability of 100 h. Further researches show that appropriate amount of iron doping can regulate the electronic structure, resulting in a favorable synergistic environment. This method may stimulate the exploration of electrocatalysts by utilizing MOFs as precursors while realizing electronic modulation by multimetal doping.
Fatigue damage analysis of reinforced concrete column considering low‐cycle behavior of HRB400 steel
Authors: Xiao Yunfeng , Zhang Yaoting , Lu Jiezhi , Liu Yong
Published: September 2019

In this study, a damage model‐based fatigue behavior is proposed. To consider the fatigue behavior of steel in the damage model, the experimental research on reinforcing steel bar grades HRB400 was presented. The monotonic tension test and low‐cycle fatigue test were carried out. The plastic strain amplitude–fatigue cycle (εp–2Nf) curve and plastic strain amplitude–strength loss factor (εp–ϕSR) curve were obtained. The fatigue parameters (Cf, Cd, and α) were proposed by nonlinear fitting. The specimens were simulated using the “Reinforcing Steel” material in “OpenSees” program. These fatigue parameters were proved to accurately describe the fatigue behavior of HRB400 rebar. Moreover, to verify the application of fatigue damage model in RC column, fiber‐based element models were established based on the quasi‐static cyclic test on RC columns. The calculated results agreed well with those of the tests. The damage degree of RC column was calculated by the recorded stress–strain curves of material. The proposed fatigue parameters could be referred in damage model based on material fatigue behavior.
Molecular phylogeny and taxonomic synopsis of the angraecoid genus Ypsilopus (Orchidaceae, Vandeae)
Authors: D'haijère Tania , Mardulyn Patrick , Dong Ling , Plunkett Gregory M. , Simo‐Droissart Murielle , Droissart Vincent , Stévart Tariq
Published: September 2019

Previous phylogenetic analyses focused on angraecoid orchids suggested that the genus Ypsilopus was paraphyletic and that some species of Tridactyle and Rangaeris belong to a clade that included Ypsilopus. These studies, based on three to four genes, sampled few taxa in each genus, and did not include the type of Rangaeris, nor did they take morphological variation into account. To delineate Ypsilopus more precisely, we reconstructed phylogenetic relationships of the genus and seven other closely related genera by analysing sequence variation at the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS‐1) and at five plastid markers (matK, rps16, trnC‐petN intergenic spacer, trnL‐trnF intergenic spacer, ycf1), from 42 specimens representing 36 taxa. Trees based on maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference confirm that two species of Tridactyle are nested with three Ypsilopus species, including the type of the latter, and two species of Rangaeris are grouped with this clade. Moreover, we examined morphological variation among all species belonging to these three genera, highlighting morphological features that characterize Ypsilopus, and we used these data to assign the two species of Tridactyle included in the molecular analyses, three other species of Tridactyle not included in the molecular analyses and two species of Rangaeris to Ypsilopus. New combinations for Tridactyle citrina, T. furcistipes, T. sarcodantha, T. tanneri, T. tricuspis, Rangaeris amaniensis and R. schliebenii in Ypsilopus are thus proposed, and one new section (i.e., Ypsilopus sect. Barombiella) is described. Keys to the species of Ypsilopus and closely related genera are provided, along with a table of characters that can be used to differentiate these species.
Carthamus tinctorius L. extract activates insulin‐like growth factor‐I receptor signaling to inhibit FAS‐death receptor pathway and suppress lipopolysaccharides‐induced H9c2 cardiomyoblast cell apoptosis
Authors: Tung Chun‐Liang , Ju Da‐Tong , Velmurugan Bharath Kumar , Ban Bo , Dung Tran D. , Hsieh Dennis J.‐Y. , P. Viswanadha Vijaya , Day Cecilia H. , Lin Yueh‐Min , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: September 2019

Carthamus tinctorius L. (Compositae) is used in Chinese medicine to treat heart disease and inflammation. In our previous study, we found that C. tinctorius L. inhibited lipopolysaccharides (LPS)‐induced tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) activation, JNK expression, and apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyoblast cells. The present study was performed to investigate the protective effect of C. tinctorius extract (CTF) on LPS‐challenged H9c2 myocardioblast cell and to explore the possible underlying mechanism. Cell viability assay showed that LPS treatment decreased the cell viability of H9c2 cell, whereas CTF treatment reversed LPS cytotoxicity in a dose‐dependent manner, especially in the LPS + CTF 25 (μg/mL) group. LPS treatment‐induced apoptosis was determined by transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay, and by Western blot. LPS‐induced apoptotic bodies were decreased following CTF treatment. Expression of TNF‐α, FAS‐L, FAS, FADD, caspase‐8, BID, and t‐BID was significantly increased in LPS‐treated H9c2 cells. In contrast, it was significantly suppressed by the administration of CTF extract. In addition, CTF treatment activates antiapoptotic proteins, Bcl‐2 and p‐Bad, and downregulates Bax, cytochrome‐c, caspase‐9, caspase‐3, and apoptosis‐inducing factor expression. Furthermore, CTF exerted cytoprotective effects by activating insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) signaling pathway leading to downregulation of the apoptotic proteins involved in FAS death receptor pathway. In addition, AG1024 and IGF‐I receptor (IGF‐IR) inhibitor and siRNA silencing reverses the effect of CTF implying that CTF functions through the IGF‐IR pathway to inhibit LPS‐induced H9c2 apoptosis. These results suggest that treatment with CTF extract prevented the LPS‐induced apoptotic response through IGF‐I pathway.
Acceleration and Inhibition Effect of Tertiary Amines on Thermal Degradation of Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
Authors: Kato Yuichi , Sudo Eiichi
Published: September 2019

Poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) is occasionally discolored yellow or red by the formation of polyene chains in the polymer backbone. It has been noted that the formation of such polyene structures is caused by dehydrochlorination of the PVC, accelerated by tertiary amines. Thus, in the present study, we investigated the influence of amines on the formation of polyene structures in PVC, using resonance Raman spectroscopy. The amount of polyene produced by thermal treatment with amine vapor exposure was determined based on the resonance Raman intensity ratio of the polyene band to the PVC band. The results showed that the discoloration of PVC, indicating the formation of polyene structures, was most prominently caused by 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2.]octane (DABCO), bis(2‐dimethylaminoethyl)ether (BDMEE), or N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethyl‐1,6‐diaminohexane (TMDAH), because of their high basicity and nucleophilicity. In addition, the formation of polyene structures was inhibited by the co‐presence of amine and protic solvent (water, ethanol, and 2‐propanol) or additives containing hydroxyl groups (glycerin, poly[vinyl alcohol]), suggesting that amine nucleophilicity toward PVC is reduced by the protonation of amine to lone pairs of tertiary amines. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 26:253–258, 2020. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Integration of gadolinium in nanostructure for contrast enhanced‐magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Marasini Ramesh , Thanh Nguyen Tuyen Duong , Aryal Santosh
Published: September 2019

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a routinely used imaging technique in medical diagnostics, which is further enhanced with the use of contrast agents (CAs). The most commonly used CAs are gadolinium‐based contrast agents (GBCAs), in which gadolinium (Gd) is chelated with organic chelating agents (linear or cyclic). However, the use of GBCA is related to toxic side effect due to the release of free Gd3+ ions from the chelating agents. The repeated use of GBCAs has led to Gd deposition in various major organs including bone, brain, and kidneys. As a result, the use of GBCA has been linked to the development of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). Due to the GBCA associated toxicities, some clinically approved GBCAs have been limited or revoked recently. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the development of new strategies to chelate and stabilize Gd3+ ions for contrast enhancement, safety profile, and selective imaging of a pathological site. Toward this endeavor, GBCAs have been engineered using different nanoparticulate systems to improve their stability, biocompatibility, and pharmacokinetics. Throughout this review, some of the important strategies for engineering small molecular Gd3+ chelates into a nanoconstruct is discussed. We focus on the development of GBCAs as liposomes, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), polymeric nanocarriers, and plasmonic nanoparticles‐based design strategies to improve safety and contrast enhancement for contrast enhanced‐magnetic resonance imaging (Ce‐MRI). We also discuss the in‐vitro/in‐vivo properties of strategically designed nanoscale MRI CAs, its potentials, and limitations.

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > in vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging

Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices

Toxicology and Regulatory Issues in Nanomedicine > Toxicology of Nanomaterials
Nonrelativistic pulsating strings
Authors: Roychowdhury Dibakar
Published: September 2019

Abstract

We explore nonrelativistic (NR) pulsating string configurations over torsion Newton-Cartan (TNC) geometry having topology R × S
2 and check the corresponding analytic integrability criteria following Kovacic’s algorithm. In the first part we consider pulsating strings propagating over TNC geometry whose world-sheet theory is described by relativistic CFTs. We compute conserved charges associated with the 2D sigma model and show that the classical phase space corresponding to these NR pulsating string configurations is Liouvillian integrable. Finally, we consider nonrelativisitc scaling associated with the world-sheet d.o.f. and show that the corresponding string configuration allows even simpler integrable structure.
Spectral weight suppression and Fermi arc-like features with strong holographic lattices
Authors: Cremonini Sera , Li Li , Ren Jie
Published: September 2019

Abstract

We investigate holographic fermions in uni-directional striped phases, where the breaking of translational invariance can be generated either spontaneously or explicitly. We solve the Dirac equation for a probe fermion in the associated background geometry. When the spatial modulation effect becomes sufficiently strong, we see a spectral weight suppression whenever the Fermi surface is larger than the first Brillouin zone. This leads to the gradual disappearance of the Fermi surface along the symmetry breaking direction, in all of the cases we have examined. This effect appears to be a generic consequence of strong inhomogeneities, independently of whether translational invariance is broken spontaneously or explicitly. The resulting Fermi surface is segmented and has features reminiscent of Fermi arcs.
Evolution of holographic complexity near critical point
Authors: Ebrahim H. , Asadi M. , Ali-Akbari M.
Published: September 2019

Abstract

The holographic complexity has been studied in a background which includes a critical point in the dual field theory. We have examined how the complexity rate and the saturation time of dynamical variables in the theory behave as one moves towards the critical point. Two significant results of our analysis are that (i) it takes more time for the complexity in field theory dual to become time dependent as one moves away from the critical point and (ii) near the critical point the complexity starts evolving linearly in time sooner than the other points away from it. We also observe different behaviour for complexity rate in action and volume prescriptions. In action prescription we have used the time scales in theory to obtain the dynamical critical exponent and interestingly have observed that different time scales produce the same value up to very small error.
Holographic correlators in AdS3 without Witten diagrams
Authors: Giusto Stefano , Russo Rodolfo , Tyukov Alexander , Wen Congkao
Published: September 2019

Abstract

We present a formula for the holographic 4-point correlators in AdS3 × S
3 involving four single-trace operators of dimension k, k, l, l. As an input we use the super-gravity results for the Heavy-Heavy-Light-Light correlators that can be derived by studying the linear fluctuations around known asymptotically AdS3 × S
3 geometries. When the operators of dimension k and l are in the same multiplet there are contributions due to the exchange of single-trace operators in the t and u-channels, which are not captured by the approach mentioned above. However by rewriting the s-channel results in Mellin space we obtain a compact expression for the s-channel contribution that makes it possible to conjecture a formula for the complete result. We discuss some consistency checks that our proposal meets.
Subleading soft dressings of asymptotic states in QED and perturbative quantum gravity
Authors: Choi Sangmin , Akhoury Ratindranath
Published: September 2019

Abstract

We construct Faddeev-Kulish states in QED and perturbative quantum gravity to subleading order in the soft momentum expansion and to first order in the coupling constant, using the charge conservation formula of asymptotic symmetries associated with the tree-level subleading soft theorems. We demonstrate that the emission and absorption of soft photons/gravitons in dressed amplitudes vanish. The fact that no additional soft radiation may be added to a dressed amplitude supports the claim that, in the dressed state formalism, the soft and hard sectors of scattering processes are correlated. We also show that the dressed virtual amplitudes are equivalent to the infrared-finite part of the traditional amplitudes constructed using Fock states. Since there is no real soft radiation in the asymptotic Hilbert space, the dressed state formalism gives the same cross sections as the Bloch-Nordsieck method.
Off-shell renormalization in the presence of dimension 6 derivative operators. Part I. General theory
Authors: Binosi D. , Quadri A.
Published: September 2019

Abstract

The consistent recursive subtraction of UV divergences order by order in the loop expansion for spontaneously broken effective field theories with dimension-6 derivative operators is presented for an Abelian gauge group. We solve the Slavnov-Taylor identity to all orders in the loop expansion by homotopy techniques and a suitable choice of invariant field coordinates (named bleached variables) for the linearly realized gauge group. This allows one to disentangle the gauge-invariant contributions to off-shell 1-PI amplitudes from those associated with the gauge-fixing and (generalized) non-polynomial field redefinitions (that do appear already at one loop). The tools presented can be easily generalized to the non-Abelian case.
The Value of Character-Based Judgement in the Professional Domain
Authors: Arthur James , Earl Stephen R. , Thompson Aidan P. , Ward Joseph W.
Published: September 2019

Dimensions of character are often overlooked in professional practice at the expense of the development of technical competence and operational efficiency. Drawing on philosophical accounts of virtue ethics and positive psychology, the present work attempts to elevate the role of ‘good’ character in the professional domain. A ‘good’ professional is ideally one that exemplifies dimensions of character informed by sound judgement. A total of 2340 professionals, from five discrete professions, were profiled based on their valuation of qualities pertaining to character and judgement. Profile differences were subsequently examined in the self-reported experience of professional purpose towards a wider societal ‘good’. Analysis of covariance, controlling for stage of career, revealed that professionals valuing character reported higher professional purpose than those overweighting the importance of judgement or valuing neither character nor judgement, F(3, 2054) = 7.92, p < .001. No differences were found between the two groups valuing character, irrespective of whether judgement was valued simultaneously. This profiling analysis of entry-level and in-service professionals, based on their holistic character composition, paves the way for fresh philosophical discussion regarding what constitutes a ‘good’ professional and the interplay between character and judgement. The empirical findings may be of substantive value in helping to recognise how the dimensions of character and judgement may impact upon practitioners’ professional purpose.
Memorability of photographs in subjective cognitive decline and mild cognitive impairment: Implications for cognitive assessment
Authors: Bainbridge Wilma A. , Berron David , Schütze Hartmut , Cardenas‐Blanco Arturo , Metzger Coraline , Dobisch Laura , Bittner Daniel , Glanz Wenzel , Spottke Annika , Rudolph Janna , Brosseron Frederic , Buerger Katharina , Janowitz Daniel , Fliessbach Klaus , Heneka Michael , Laske Christoph , Buchmann Martina , Peters Oliver , Diesing Dominik , Li Siyao , Priller Josef , Spruth Eike Jakob , Altenstein Slawek , Schneider Anja , Kofler Barbara , Teipel Stefan , Kilimann Ingo , Wiltfang Jens , Bartels Claudia , Wolfsgruber Steffen , Wagner Michael , Jessen Frank , Baker Chris I. , Düzel Emrah
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Impaired long‐term memory is a defining feature of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). We tested whether this impairment is item specific, limited to some memoranda, whereas some remain consistently memorable.

Methods

We conducted item‐based analyses of long‐term visual recognition memory. Three hundred ninety‐four participants (healthy controls, subjective cognitive decline [SCD], and MCI) in the multicentric DZNE‐Longitudinal Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Study (DELCODE) were tested with images from a pool of 835 photographs.

Results

We observed consistent memorability for images in healthy controls, SCD, and MCI, predictable by a neural network trained on another healthy sample. Looking at memorability differences between groups, we identified images that could successfully categorize group membership with higher success and a substantial image reduction than the original image set.

Discussion

Individuals with SCD and MCI show consistent memorability for specific items, while other items show significant diagnosticity. Certain stimulus features could optimize diagnostic assessment, while others could support memory.
Proteomics Analysis of Lipid Droplets from the Oleaginous Alga Chromochloris Zofingiensis Reveals Novel Proteins for Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Wei Hehong , Mao Xuemei , Liu Jin
Published: September 2019

Chromochloris zofingiensis represents an industrially relevant and unique green alga, given its capability of synthesizing triacylglycerol (TAG) and astaxanthin simultaneously for storage in lipid droplets (LDs). To further decipher lipid metabolism, the nitrogen deprivation (ND)-induced LDs from C. zofingiensis were isolated, purified, and subjected to proteomic analysis. Intriguingly, many C. zofingiensis LD proteins had no orthologs present in LD proteome of the model alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Seven novel LD proteins (i.e., two functionally unknown proteins, two caleosins, two lipases, and one l-gulonolactone oxidase) and the major LD protein (MLDP), which were all transcriptionally up-regulated by ND, were selected for further investigation. Heterologous expression in yeast demonstrated that all tested LD proteins were localized to LDs and all except the two functionally unknown proteins enabled yeast to produce more TAG. MLDP could restore the phenotype of mldp mutant strain and enhance TAG synthesis in wild-type strain of C. reinhardtii. Although MLDP and caleosins had a comparable abundance in LDs, they responded distinctly to ND at the transcriptional level. The two lipases, instead of functioning as TAG lipases, likely recycled polar lipids to support TAG synthesis. For the first time, we reported that l-gulonolactone oxidase was abundant in LDs and facilitated TAG accumulation. Moreover, we also proposed a novel working model for C. zofingiensis LDs. Taken together, our work unravels the unique characteristics of C. zofingiensis LDs and provides insights into algal LD biogenesis and TAG synthesis, which would facilitate genetic engineering of this alga for TAG improvement.
Whole Genome Analyses of Chinese Population and De Novo Assembly of A Northern Han Genome
Authors: Du Zhenglin , Ma Liang , Qu Hongzhu , Chen Wei , Zhang Bing , Lu Xi , Zhai Weibo , Sheng Xin , Sun Yongqiao , Li Wenjie , Lei Meng , Qi Qiuhui , Yuan Na , Shi Shuo , Zeng Jingyao , Wang Jinyue , Yang Yadong , Liu Qi , Hong Yaqiang , Dong Lili , Zhang Zhewen , Zou Dong , Wang Yanqing , Song Shuhui , Liu Fan , Fang Xiangdong , Chen Hua , Liu Xin , Xiao Jingfa , Zeng Changqing
Published: September 2019

To unravel the genetic mechanisms of disease and physiological traits, it requires comprehensive sequencing analysis of large sample size in Chinese populations. Here, we report the primary results of the Chinese Academy of Sciences Precision Medicine Initiative (CASPMI) project launched by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, including the de novo assembly of a northern Han reference genome (NH1.0) and whole genome analyses of 597 healthy people coming from most areas in China. Given the two existing reference genomes for Han Chinese (YH and HX1) were both from the south, we constructed NH1.0, a new reference genome from a northern individual, by combining the sequencing strategies of PacBio, 10× Genomics, and Bionano mapping. Using this integrated approach, we obtained an N50 scaffold size of 46.63 Mb for the NH1.0 genome and performed a comparative genome analysis of NH1.0 with YH and HX1. In order to generate a genomic variation map of Chinese populations, we performed the whole-genome sequencing of 597 participants and identified 24.85 million (M) single nucleotide variants (SNVs), 3.85 M small indels, and 106,382 structural variations. In the association analysis with collected phenotypes, we found that the T allele of rs1549293 in KAT8 significantly correlated with the waist circumference in northern Han males. Moreover, significant genetic diversity in MTHFR, TCN2, FADS1, and FADS2, which associate with circulating folate, vitamin B12, or lipid metabolism, was observed between northerners and southerners. Especially, for the homocysteine-increasing allele of rs1801133 (MTHFR 677T), we hypothesize that there exists a “comfort” zone for a high frequency of 677T between latitudes of 35–45 degree North. Taken together, our results provide a high-quality northern Han reference genome and novel population-specific data sets of genetic variants for use in the personalized and precision medicine.
MCI‐to‐normal reversion using neuropsychological criteria in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Authors: Thomas Kelsey R. , Edmonds Emily C. , Eppig Joel S. , Wong Christina G. , Weigand Alexandra J. , Bangen Katherine J. , Jak Amy J. , Delano‐Wood Lisa , Galasko Douglas R. , Salmon David P. , Edland Steven D. , Bondi Mark W. ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: September 2019

Introduction

The low mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to cognitively normal (CN) reversion rate in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (2–3%) suggests the need to examine reversion by other means. We applied comprehensive neuropsychological criteria (NP criteria) to determine the resulting MCI to CN reversion rate.

Methods

Participants with CN (n = 641) or MCI (n = 569) were classified at baseline and year 1 using NP criteria. Demographic, neuropsychological, and Alzheimer's disease biomarker variables as well as progression to dementia were examined across stable CN, reversion, and stable MCI groups.

Results

NP criteria produced a one‐year reversion rate of 15.8%. Reverters had demographics, Alzheimer's disease biomarkers, and risk‐of‐progression most similar to the stable CN group and showed the most improvement on neuropsychological measures from baseline to year 1.

Discussion

NP criteria produced a reversion rate that is consistent with, albeit modestly improved from, reversion rates in meta‐analyses. Reverters' biomarker profiles and progression rates suggest that NP criteria accurately tracked with underlying pathophysiologic status.