bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yeast membrane lipid imbalance leads to trafficking defects toward the Golgi
Authors: Woodman Sara , Trousdale Christopher , Conover Justin , Kim Kyoungtae
Published: March 2018

Protein recycling is an essential cellular process involving endocytosis, intracellular trafficking, and exocytosis. In mammalian systems membrane lipids, including cholesterol, sphingolipids, and phospholipids, play a pivotal role in protein recycling. To address this role in budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we utilized GFP‐Snc1, a v‐SNARE protein serving as a fluorescent marker for faithfully reporting the recycling pathway. Here we demonstrate results that display moderate to significant GFP‐Snc1 recycling defects upon overexpression or inactivation of phospholipid, ergosterol, and sphingolipid biosynthesis enzymes, indicating that the homeostasis of membrane lipid levels is prerequisite for proper protein recycling. By using a truncated version of GFP‐Snc1 that cannot be recycled from the plasma membrane, we determined that abnormalities in Snc1 localization in membrane lipid overexpression or underexpression mutants are not due to defects in the synthetic/secretory pathway, but rather in the intracellular trafficking pathway. We found that membrane lipid imbalance resulted in an accumulation of the late endosome marker Vps10‐GFP, indicating trafficking from the endosomes to the Golgi may be being hindered, preventing recycling to the plasma membrane. To elucidate the possible mechanism for this trafficking hindrance, we stained the actin cytoskeleton, then quantified the percentage of cells with visible actin cables. Compared to wild‐type cells, membrane lipid mutant cells exhibited lower levels of actin cables, indicating the actin cytoskeleton is disrupted upon membrane lipid imbalance. Taken together, our results show that impairment of proper recycling may be due to disruption of the actin cytoskeleton, which causes trafficking hindrance between the endosomes and Golgi.
Icariin attenuates titanium particle‐induced inhibition of osteogenic differentiation and matrix mineralization via miR‐21‐5p
Authors: Lian Feng , Zhao Chengbin , Qu Jing , Lian Yongyun , Cui Yong , Shan Liang , Yan Jinglong
Published: March 2018

Inhibition of bone regeneration by wear debris is the main cause of peri‐prosthetic osteolysis. Here, we investigated the effect of icariin on cell proliferation, apoptosis, osteogenic differentiation and matrix mineralization of osteoblasts in an in vitro model of titanium (Ti) particle‐induced osteolysis. In the present study, MC3T3‐E1 cells were pretreated with 10−8 M icariin for 4 h and then incubated with Ti particles (0.1 mg/mL). The results showed that Ti particles inhibited cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis of MC3T3‐E1 cells, whereas icariin pretreatment blocked the effect of Ti particles. In addition, we found that icariin stimulation alone increased ALP activity, accelerated matrix mineralization and upregulated the levels of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteocalcin (OCN) and miR‐21‐5p; whereas, Ti particles alone exerted the opposite effects. Icariin partly reversed the effect of Ti particles on cell differentiation and mineralization. Twenty hours after transfection with antagomiR‐21‐5p or antagomiR‐NC, the cells were pretreated with icariin for 4 h and then incubated with Ti particles. Further studies showed that partial knockdown of miR‐21‐5p abolished the promotion effect of icariin on osteoblast differentiation and matrix mineralization in Ti particle‐stimulated MC3T3‐E1 cells. In conclusion, miR‐21‐5p may be a potential pro‐osteogenesis regulator and icariin may protect against Ti particle‐induced inhibition of osteogenic differentiation and mineralization through upregulation of miR‐21‐5p.
Biological effects of trans fatty acids and their possible roles in the lipid rafts in apoptosis regulation
Authors: Qiu Bin , Wang Qing , Liu Wei , Xu Tong‐Cheng , Liu Li‐Na , Zong Ai‐Zhen , Jia Min , Li Jing , Du Fang‐Ling
Published: March 2018

A large number of recent studies are focused on evaluating the mechanism of action of trans fatty acids (TFAs) on the progression of apoptosis. A strong positive association has been reported between TFA and coronary heart disease (CHD), obesity and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and so on. The present study reviewed the biological effects of trans fatty acids (TFA) and their possible roles in lipid rafts in regulating apoptosis. The following aspects of TFA were included: the research about TFA and diseases affecting serum lipid levels, inducing system inflammation and immune response, and the correlation between TFA and apoptosis. The primary purpose of the review article was to comprehensively evaluate the potential correlation between lipid rafts and apoptosis induced by different structures of TFA and provide some new research progress and future directions about it.
Subarachnoid hemorrhage secondary to cerebral venous sinus thrombosis
Authors: Abbas Ashraf , Sawlani Vijay , Hosseini Akram A.
Published: March 2018

Key Clinical Message

Subarachnoid hemorrhage as a presentation of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare but recognized phenomenon. A high index of suspicion among clinicians and an awareness of subtle CT features can avoid delayed diagnosis of underlying CVST [Eur J Neurol., 17, 2010, 1249]. Prompt but careful anticoagulation can prevent significant associated morbidity and mortality.
Bilaterally enlarged adrenal glands without obvious cause: need for a multidisciplinary diagnostic work‐up
Authors: Drenthen Linda C. A. , Roerink Sean H. P. P. , Mattijssen Vera , de Boer Hans
Published: March 2018

Key clinical message

Bilateral enlarged adrenal glands are rare, and as diagnostic delay may have serious consequences for the patient, we recommend a multidisciplinary approach of specialists in the field of endocrinology, oncology, radiology, and clinical chemistry prior to the start of the diagnostic work‐up.
Vascularization of colorectal carcinoma liver metastasis: insight into stratification of patients for anti‐angiogenic therapies
Authors: Lazaris Anthoula , Amri Abdellatif , Petrillo Stephanie K , Zoroquiain Paublo , Ibrahim Nisreen , Salman Ayat , Gao Zu‐Hua , Vermeulen Peter B , Metrakos Peter
Published: March 2018

Current treatment for metastatic disease targets angiogenesis. With the increasing data demonstrating that cancer cells do not entirely rely on angiogenesis but hijack the existing vasculature through mechanisms such as co‐option of existing blood vessels, identification of targets has become of utmost importance. Our study looks at the vasculature of chemonaïve and treated colorectal carcinoma liver metastases (CRCLMs) to obtain a basic understanding of the microvessel density, type of vasculature (mature versus immature), and correlation with histopathological growth patterns that demonstrate unique patterns of angiogenesis. We performed immunohistochemistry on chemonaïve sections of desmoplastic histopathological growth pattern (DHGP) and replacement histopathological growth patterns (RHGP) lesions with CD31 [endothelial cell (EC) marker] and CD34/Ki67 double staining, which denotes proliferating ECs. The CD31 stains demonstrated a lower microvascular CD31 +ve capillary density in the DHGP versus RHGP lesions; and integrating both immunostains with CD34/Ki67 staining on serial sections revealed proliferating vessels in DHGP lesions and co‐option of mature existing blood vessels in RHGP lesions. Interestingly, upon treatment with chemotherapy and bevacizumab, the RHGP lesions showed no necrosis whereas the DHGP lesions had almost 100% necrosis of the cancer cells and in most cases there was a single layer of viable cancer cells, just under or within the desmoplastic ring. The survival of these cells may be directly related to spatial location and possibly a different microenvironment, which may involve adhesion to different extracellular matrix components and/or different oxygen/nutrient availability. This remains to be elucidated. We provide evidence that DHGP CRCLMs obtain their blood supply via sprouting angiogenesis whereas RHGP lesions obtain their blood supply via co‐option of existing vasculature. Furthermore current treatment regimens do not affect RHGP lesions and although they kill the majority of the cancer cells in DHGP lesions, there are cells surviving within or adjacent to the desmoplastic ring which could potentially give rise to a growing lesion.
Transitory Change of Bacterial Community Structure in Hot Water Biofilm: Effects of Anti‐Legionella Treatments
Authors: Farhat Maha , Moletta‐Denat Marina , Trouilhé Marie‐Cécile , Frère Jacques , Robine Enric
Published: March 2018

Hot water networks are known to harbor pathogenic bacteria like Legionella. The present work aims to study bacterial community structure surrounding Legionella in biofilm before (T0) and after (72 h) two heat shocks (HS1 and HS2) followed by chemical treatment (C2). Phylogenetic study shows the dominance of Proteobacteria phylum with three classes (Alphaproteobacteria, Betaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria) except for 72h‐HS2 where Bacteriodetes dominated the phyla (49%.) Three phylotypes dominate the total of sequences; Aquabacterium (22.8%), Novosphingobium (15%) and Burkholderiales (9.6%) of which none is detected in the biofilm after HS2 and the majority of sequences belong to new unclassified bacteria (60.7%). Aquabacterium and Novosphingobium are quickly detected again at T0 before C2. Sequences possibly close to opportunistic bacteria (11.7%; Legionella rubrilucens, L. anisa, Caulobacter, Leptospira, Burkholderiales, and Mycobacterium) are no more detectable after treatments indicating their disappearance or their minor presence compared to other bacteria. Principal component analysis shows a distinct bacterial community structure after HS2. This structure is back to the initial state after C2. The current findings underline the incomplete and transitory change of bacterial community structure in hot water biofilm by heat shock and chemical treatments. Therefore, Legionella eradication requires complete biofilm elimination.
A regulated multiscale closed‐loop cardiovascular model, with applications to hemorrhage and hypertension
Authors: Canuto Daniel , Chong Kwitae , Bowles Cayley , Dutson Erik P. , Eldredge Jeff D. , Benharash Peyman
Published: March 2018

A computational tool is developed for simulating the dynamic response of the human cardiovascular system to various stressors and injuries. The tool couples 0‐dimensional models of the heart, pulmonary vasculature, and peripheral vasculature to 1‐dimensional models of the major systemic arteries. To simulate autonomic response, this multiscale circulatory model is integrated with a feedback model of the baroreflex, allowing control of heart rate, cardiac contractility, and peripheral impedance. The performance of the tool is demonstrated in 2 scenarios: neurogenic hypertension by sustained stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system and an acute 10% hemorrhage from the left femoral artery.
A validated, sensitive electrophoretic method for the detection of activin receptor type II‐Fc fusion proteins in human blood
Authors: Martin L. , Zouhiri N. , Audran M. , Marchand A.
Published: March 2018

New therapeutic proteins that trap circulating members of the transforming growth factor (TGF) beta superfamily (activins and growth differentiation factors) show promising effects on erythropoiesis and muscular growth. They are dimeric recombinant fusion proteins composed of the extracellular domain of a human activin receptor (ActRIIA or IIB) linked to the Fc part of human IgG1. Sotatercept (ActRIIA‐Fc) and Luspatercept (a modified ActRIIB‐Fc) in particular are now in phase 2/3 of clinical trials against anemia and included in the prohibited list established by the World Anti‐Doping Agency. To prevent a potential misuse by athletes in the near future, a robust and sensitive method of detection is needed. We validated an approach adapted from an electrophoretic method used for the detection of recombinant erythropoietins that allowed detection of various ActRIIA‐Fc and ActRIIB‐Fc proteins, including variants produced in different cell types, after a single immuno‐extraction step. After separation by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE), an initial testing procedure performed by single‐blotting can indicate the presence of an ActRII‐Fc (indifferently type IIA or IIB). A confirmation performed by double‐blotting using different antibodies for detection allows a more precise identification of the type of ActRII‐Fc (IIA, IIB). Starting from a few hundred microliters of serum or plasma, this method is specific, sensitive, and easy to perform. It could easily be adopted by anti‐doping laboratories.
Disparities in eating disorder diagnosis and treatment according to weight status, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic background, and sex among college students
Authors: Sonneville K. R. , Lipson S. K.
Published: March 2018

Objective

Eating disorders (EDs) present a significant threat to the health of adolescents and young adults, yet remain under‐diagnosed and under‐treated at a population‐level. EDs have historically been thought to afflict “skinny, white, affluent girls” (the SWAG stereotype). As such, higher‐weight individuals, racial/ethnic minorities, those from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds, and males may not recognize their need for treatment, may not be properly screened for EDs, and/or may not be referred to treatment.

Method

Using large‐scale survey data from the healthy bodies study, we examined variations in prevalence of perceived need for ED treatment, ED diagnosis, past‐year ED treatment, and treatment barriers according to weight status, race, socioeconomic background, and sex among undergraduate and graduate students with symptoms of an ED (N = 1,747).

Results

Among students with symptoms of an ED, 30.7% perceived a need for treatment, 10.5% had received a diagnosis, and 13.6% had received treatment in the past year. Individual characteristics were highly associated with perceived need, diagnosis, and past‐year treatment. Females were more likely than males to perceive a need for treatment (OR = 1.97), to be diagnosed (OR = 4.66), and to be treated (OR = 1.64) for their ED symptoms. Socioeconomic background was associated with perceived need for treatment and past‐year treatment, with students from affluent backgrounds having higher odds of perceiving need (OR = 1.52) and of receiving treatment (OR = 1.89) compared with their non‐affluent peers.

Discussion

At a population‐level, the unmet need for ED treatment disproportionately affects certain groups. Stereotypes about who develops EDs could contribute to disparities in ED treatment and outcomes.
Imagery rescripting and cognitive dissonance: A randomized controlled trial of two brief online interventions for women at risk of developing an eating disorder
Authors: Pennesi Jamie‐Lee , Wade Tracey D.
Published: March 2018

Objective

This pilot study compared two brief online interventions, imagery rescripting and cognitive dissonance, to an assessment‐only control condition in a sample of body‐dissatisfied young women at risk of developing an eating disorder. We examined the degree to which each intervention reduced disordered eating and modified risk and protective factors for eating disorders.

Method

Female university students (N =107, 17–28 years of age) completed a screening questionnaire, followed by random allocation to one of the three conditions, followed by a baseline assessment, body dissatisfaction induction, and brief online intervention. Participants in the active conditions then completed online daily home practice and a postintervention questionnaire.

Results

Findings provide qualified support for the imagery rescripting intervention, with participants reporting higher body image acceptance (Cohen'sd = 0.49) than the cognitive dissonance condition, and higher self‐compassion (d = 0.59) and lower levels of disordered eating (d = 0.59) than the control condition, at postintervention. There was no significant impact of cognitive dissonance on any factors. Change in body image acceptance and self‐compassion mediated the relationship between allocated condition and change in disordered eating at postintervention.

Discussion

These findings provide preliminary support for the use of online‐adapted imagery‐based techniques (e.g., imagery rescripting) to reduce risk for the development of an eating disorder by strengthening protective factors (i.e., body image acceptance and self‐compassion) and reducing disordered eating. Further exploration of the use of imagery strategies in the prevention of disordered eating is required, including prospective tests of the mechanisms of action.
The influence of biogeographic history on the functional and phylogenetic diversity of passerine birds in savannas and forests of the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Almeida Sara Miranda , Juen Leandro , Sobral Fernando Landa , Santos Marcos Pérsio Dantas
Published: March 2018

Passeriformes is the largest and most diverse avian order in the world and comprises the Passeri and Tyranni suborders. These suborders constitute a monophyletic group, but differ in their ecology and history of occupation of South America. We investigated the influence of biogeographic history on functional and phylogenetic diversities of Passeri and Tyranni in forest and savanna habitats in the Brazilian Amazon. We compiled species composition data for 34 Passeriformes assemblages, 12 in savannas and 22 in forests. We calculated the functional (Rao's quadratic entropy, FDQ) and phylogenetic diversities (mean pairwise distance, MPD, and mean nearest taxon distance, MNTD), and the functional beta diversity to investigate the potential role of biogeographic history in shaping ecological traits and species lineages of both suborders. The functional diversity of Passeri was higher than for Tyranni in both habitats. The MPD for Tyranni was higher than for Passeri in forests; however, there was no difference between the suborders in savannas. In savannas, Passeri presented higher MNTD than Tyranni, while in forest areas, Tyranni assemblages showed higher MNTD than Passeri. We found a high functional turnover (~75%) between Passeri and Tyranni in both habitats. The high functional diversity of Passeri in both habitats is due to the high diversity of ecological traits exhibited by species of this group, which enables the exploitation of a wide variety of resources and foraging strategies. The higher Tyranni MPD and MNTD in forests is likely due to Tyranni being older settlers in this habitat, resulting in the emergence and persistence of more lineages. The higher Passeri MNTD in savannas can be explained by the existence of a larger number of different Passeri lineages adapted to this severe habitat. The high functional turnover between the suborders in both habitats suggests an ecological strategy to avoid niche overlap.
Brain‐resident memory CD8+ T cells induced by congenital CMV infection prevent brain pathology and virus reactivation
Authors: Brizić Ilija , Šušak Božo , Arapović Maja , Huszthy Peter C. , Hiršl Lea , Kveštak Daria , Juranić Lisnić Vanda , Golemac Mijo , Pernjak Pugel Ester , Tomac Jelena , Oxenius Annette , Britt William J. , Arapović Jurica , Krmpotić Astrid , Jonjić Stipan
Published: March 2018

Congenital HCMV infection is a leading infectious cause of long‐term neurodevelopmental sequelae. Infection of newborn mice with mouse cytomegalovirus (MCMV) intraperitoneally is a well‐established model of congenital human cytomegalovirus infection, which best recapitulates the hematogenous route of virus spread to brain and subsequent pathology. Here, we used this model to investigate the role, dynamics, and phenotype of CD8+ T cells in the brain following infection of newborn mice. We show that CD8+ T cells infiltrate the brain and form a pool of tissue‐resident memory T cells (TRM cells) that persist for lifetime. Adoptively transferred virus‐specific CD8+ T cells provide protection against primary MCMV infection in newborn mice, reduce brain pathology, and remain in the brain as TRM cells. Brain CD8+ TRM cells were long‐lived, slowly proliferating cells able to respond to local challenge infection. Importantly, brain CD8+ TRM cells controlled latent MCMV and their depletion resulted in virus reactivation and enhanced inflammation in brain.
Ultrasound Waves Increase the Yield and Carotenoid Content of Lipid Extracted From Cephalothorax of Pacific White Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Gulzar Saqib , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: March 2018

Lipids from cephalothorax of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) are obtained using solvent extraction and ultrasonic assisted extraction (UAE). Among all solvents used, the mixture of hexane:isopropane (1:1) provided the highest yield (25.32% dry weight basis) and carotenoid content (1.97 mg g−1 lipid). When ultrasonication with different amplitudes (50–90%) is used for 25 min, the highest yield is obtained at 80% amplitude (p < 0.05). With the same ultrasonication time, UAE with continuous mode rendered the higher yield than pulse mode (p < 0.05). Lipid extracted with hexane:isopropanol mixture with UAE process has the yield of 49.81%. Phospholipids are major constituents of lipids extracted by solvent extraction. However, more free fatty acids, mono, and diglycerides are found in lipids extracted by UAE process, indicating increased hydrolysis. UAE process resulted in higher oxidation of lipids as evidenced by increased peroxide values (PVs) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Those alterations are more pronounced in lipids extracted using UAE with continuous mode than pulse mode as confirmed by fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. Overall, UAE process markedly increased the yield of lipids from shrimp cephalothorax, but oxidation and hydrolysis took place to some degree.

Practical Applications: Cephalothorax of Pacific white shrimp contains high value products, especially lipids rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and astaxanthin. These value‐added products can serve as excellent source of nutrients as well as bioactive compounds with proven health benefits. The extraction yield of lipid and carotenoid are significantly higher when UAE was implemented, compared to the conventional solvent extraction method. The lipids extracted by UAE process are found to have high free fatty acids (FFAs). The lipids rich in FFAs can be used as alternative raw material for manufacturing of biodiesel or other marketable products.

Lipids from cephalothorax of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) are obtained using solvent extraction and ultrasonic assisted extraction (UAE). Different solvents are used to investigate for the highest yield and a mixture of hexane:isopropanol (1:1) provided the highest yield of 25.32% (db). Ultrasonication with different amplitudes (50–90%) is used for 25 min and the highest yield is obtained at 80% amplitude with continuous mode.
Dual‐opposite multi‐walled carbon nanotube modified carbon fiber microelectrode for microfluidic chip‐capillary electrophoresis determination of methyl parathion metabolites in human urine
Authors: Du Fuying , Fung Ying‐Sing
Published: March 2018

Methyl parathion (MP) is a highly toxic organophosphate and its exposure may lead to substantial adverse effects to human health. The existence of 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NP) in the form of free phenol, glucuronide (4‐NP‐G) or as a sulfate ester (4‐NP‐S) can be used as biomarkers to assess the duration and extent of MP exposure. In this work, a MC‐CE device incorporating post‐CE amperometric detection using multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) modified carbon fiber microelectrode (CFME) was fabricated and assessed for simultaneous determination of 4‐NP, 4‐NP‐G, and 4‐NP‐S in human urine. The detection sensitivity and stability was greatly enhanced by the modification of MWNTs. The capability of the MC‐CE device with dual MWNTs modified CFME for detecting impurity was assessed and reliability established by high recoveries from 95 to 97% for spiked MP biomarkers. The method developed is shown to provide a simple, sensitive, and reliable means for monitoring 4‐NP, 4‐NP‐G, and 4‐NP‐S in human urine.
Preparation of enantiopure 1‐isopentyl‐3‐methyl‐3‐phospholene 1‐oxide via the formation of diastereomeric complexes
Authors: Bagi Péter , Juhász Kinga , Kállay Mihály , Hessz Dóra , Kubinyi Miklós , Fogassy Elemér , Keglevich György
Published: March 2018

The resolution of 1‐isopentyl‐3‐methyl‐3‐phospholene 1‐oxide via the formation of diastereomeric complexes using TADDOL derivatives or the Ca2+‐salts of tartaric acid derivatives was studied. Both enantiomers of the 1‐isopentyl‐3‐phospholene oxide were prepared in an enantiopure form with (R,R)‐spiro‐TADDOL, or with the acidic Ca2+‐salt of O,O′‐dibenzoyl‐(R,R)‐tartaric acid. The absolute configuration of the 1‐isopentyl‐3‐phospholene oxide enantiomer with negative optical rotation was also substantiated by a study involving CD spectroscopy and theoretical calculations.
Retracted: LncRNA UCA1 impacts cell proliferation, invasion, and migration of pancreatic cancer through regulating miR‐96/FOXO3
Authors: Zhou Yongping , Chen Yigang , Ding Wenzhou , Hua Zhiyuan , Wang Liying , Zhu Ye , Qian Haixin , Dai Tu
Published: March 2018

This study was expected to reveal the regulatory effects of lncRNA UCA1 on pancreatic cancer cell progression through targeting miR‐96/FOXO3. Microarray analysis was carried out on 36 cases of pancreatic cancer tissues and 16 cases of adjacent tissues among them. Expression levels of lncRNA UCA1, miR‐96, and FOXO3 in pancreatic cancer tissues and cell lines were determined by qRT‐PCR. Expression levels of FOXO3 protein were determined by western blot. Cell viability, cell cycle and apoptosis, cell invasion and migration were detected by CCK‐8, flow cytometry, and transwell assay, respectively. The colocalization relationship between lncRNA UCA1 and miR‐96 was detected by RNA FISH. Whether UCA1 could target miR‐96 and whether miR‐96 could target FOXO3 3′UTR were verified by dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay. High expression of lncRNA UCA1 and FOXO3 and low expression of miR‐96 were shown in pancreatic cancer. Inhibition of UCA1 suppressed pancreatic tumor cell proliferation, colony formation, and metastasis, while inhibition of miR‐96 promoted pancreatic cancer cell progression. FOXO3 was the downstream target gene of miR‐96 and showed the opposite effects. LncRNA UCA1 promoted cell proliferation, invasion, migration and inhibited cell apoptosis of pancreatic cancer through down‐regulating miR‐96 and up‐regulating FOXO3. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(4):276–290, 2018
Aberrant KIF20A expression might independently predict poor overall survival and recurrence‐free survival of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lu Mingqin , Huang Xiaoying , Chen Yongping , Fu Yangyang , Xu Chaona , Xiang Wei , Li Cheng , Zhang Shengguo , Yu Chang
Published: March 2018

Kinesin family member 20A (KIF20A) is an essential regulator of cytokinesis. In this study, by performing a retrospective study based on data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)–Liver and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (LIHC) cohort, we tried to assess the independent prognostic value of KIF20A in terms of overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS). Results showed that normal liver tissues had very low KIF20A expression compared with normal tissues in other cohorts in TCGA. However, the primary HCC tissues (N = 371) had significantly elevated KIF20A expression than normal liver tissues (N = 50). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) data showed that normal hepatocytes had weak KIF20A staining. In comparison, some HCC tissues had medium and strong KIF20A expression, with nuclear‐enhanced staining. By grouping patients with primary HCC (N = 365) into high and low KIF20A expression groups, we found that the high expression group had a substantially higher proportion of high‐grade tumors (G3/G4) (34/65, 52.3% vs. 96/295, 32.5%, P = 0.0027), advanced tumors (stage III/IV) (28/61, 45.9% vs. 59/280, 21.1%, P < 0.0001) and death (44/67, 65.7% vs. 86/298, 28.9%, P < 0.0001) compared with the low expression group. Kaplan‐Meier curves of OS and RFS indicated that high KIF20A expression was associated with worse survival outcomes. Subgroup analysis confirmed the associations in G1/G2, G3/G4 tumors and in early and advanced stages. Following univariate and multivariate analysis revealed that KIF20A expression was an independent prognostic indicator for poor OS (HR: 1.304, 95%CI: 1.157–1.469, P < 0.001) and RFS (HR: 1.144, 95%CI: 1.028–1.272, P < 0.001). Based on these findings, we infer that KIF20A was aberrantly expressed in HCC tissues and its expression might independently predict poor OS and RFS. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(4):328–335, 2018
Concordance between point‐of‐care blood gas analysis and laboratory autoanalyzer in measurement of hemoglobin and electrolytes in critically ill patients
Authors: Prakash Shivesh , Bihari Shailesh , Lim Zhan Y. , Verghese Santosh , Kulkarni Hemant , Bersten Andrew D.
Published: March 2018

Background

We tested the hypothesis that the results of the same test performed on point‐of‐care blood gas analysis (BGA) machine and automatic analyzer (AA) machine in central laboratory have high degree of concordance in critical care patients and that the two test methods could be used interchangeably.

Methods

We analyzed 9398 matched pairs of BGA and AA results, obtained from 1765 patients. Concentration pairs of the following analytes were assessed: hemoglobin, glucose, sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate. We determined the agreement using concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) and Bland‐Altman analysis. The difference in results was also assessed against the United States Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (US‐CLIA) 88 rules. The test results were considered to be interchangeable if they were within the US‐CLIA variability criteria and would not alter the clinical management when compared to each other.

Results

The median time interval between sampling for BGA and AA in each result pair was 5 minutes. The CCC values ranged from 0.89(95% CI 0.89‐0.90) for chloride to 0.98(95% CI 0.98‐0.99) for hemoglobin. The largest bias was for hemoglobin. The limits of agreement relative to bias were largest for sodium, with 3.4% of readings outside the US‐CLIA variation rule. The number of readings outside the US‐CLIA acceptable variation was highest for glucose (7.1%) followed by hemoglobin (5.9%) and chloride (5.2%).

Conclusion

We conclude that there is moderate to substantial concordance between AA and BGA machines on tests performed in critically ill patients. However, the two tests methods cannot be used interchangeably, except for potassium.
Influence of different sewage sludges and composts on growth, yield, and trace elements accumulation in rice and wheat
Authors: Riaz Umair , Murtaza Ghulam , Saifullah  , Farooq Muhammad
Published: March 2018

The use of sewage sludge (SS) and solid waste composts in agriculture is considered as one of the best disposal options. In this study, impact of different composts and SS was evaluated on the soil quality, growth, and yield performance of rice and wheat crops. Four types of composts and SS were collected from different sources and applied in soil at 0.5% (5 g kg−1 soil) and 1.0% (10 g kg−1 soil) in comparison with chemical fertilizer (no SS/compost). The application of all types of composts at all the tested rates increased the straw and grain yields of both the crops compared with control. Nevertheless, application of Lahore compost and all SS (1.0%) resulted in a significant increase in the concentration of cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) in plant parts. The Cd concentration in rice grains with Lahore compost and Kasur SS applied at the rate of 1.0% was above the safe limit. The trace elements in wheat grains with all composts and SS at all the tested rates remained within safe limits. The release of amendment bound trace elements in soil solution was highly dependent upon dissolved organic carbon and concentration of these trace elements especially for Cu and Zn. Application of SS at low level (0.5%) and compost (except Lahore compost) at both levels could be a better strategy to exploit their benefits in terms of crop performance and soil quality. However, application of SS and compost at high rates may lead to accumulation of trace elements in rice grains limiting its suitability for human consumption.
Dry‐stone wall terrace monitoring and modelling
Authors: Preti Federico , Errico Alessandro , Caruso Marco , Dani Andrea , Guastini Enrico
Published: March 2018

Dry‐stone wall agricultural terraces are widespread all over the world and represent an effective retaining structure for farming purposes. However, dry‐stone walls can be subjected to degradation and damages, with complex and expensive maintenance. Such high costs are the most relevant drivers of land abandonment in many agricultural areas of Europe and of other continents, resulting in a progressive loss of cultivable surface, cultural heritages, and landscape traditional elements. Therefore, a more effective and efficient management of these systems is needed. As a contribution, in the present paper, an innovative modelling approach system is proposed. The presented model is able to describe hydrological processes on a terraced slope and to analyze the destabilizing pressures acting on the retaining dry‐stone walls in the most critical portion of each terrace. The model structure is based on the results of multidisciplinary field monitoring campaigns on water circulation in terraced landscapes carried out on a terraced vineyard (Lamole, Tuscany, Italy). A monitoring station was set up on a recently reconstructed dry‐stone wall, to measure the parameters influencing the pressures acting on the retaining structure. The results show a good capability of the model to predict the distribution and intensity of stresses on the instrumented dry‐stone wall over time and space. Such stresses were related to the earth pressure and to hydrostatic pressures (water accumulation), without the occurrence of soil saturation. Detecting the most failure‐prone portions of a terraced system, this approach can support landowners and land planners in managing these complex and fragile environments.
Low‐dose valganciclovir for cytomegalovirus prophylaxis in intermediate‐risk liver transplantation recipients
Authors: Khan Salman , Sullivan Timothy , Ali Mohsin , Dunn Dallas , Patel Gopi , Huprikar Shirish
Published: March 2018

Liver transplantation recipients (LTRs) who are seropositive for cytomegalovirus (CMV) (recipient seropositive [R+]) are at intermediate risk for CMV disease. A preventative strategy following transplant is considered standard of care. Current guidelines recommend high‐dose valganciclovir (VGCV; 900 mg/day adjusted for renal function) for prophylaxis given limited data on the efficacy and safety of low‐dose VGCV (450 mg/day adjusted for renal function). We describe our experience using low‐dose VGCV prophylaxis for R+ LTRs at our institution. A single‐center, retrospective study was conducted using a database of 364 LTRs over a 4‐year period (2011‐2014). Adult first‐time R+ LTRs receiving low‐dose VGCV prophylaxis were included. The primary endpoint was CMV disease at 1 year after transplant. Patients were compared with historical controls receiving high‐dose VGCV prophylaxis. Secondary endpoints were biopsy‐proven rejection and leukopenia on VGCV. With respect to leukopenia, patients receiving low‐dose VGCV were compared with a group of D+R– patients from the database receiving high‐dose VGCV. Univariate analyses were performed using chi‐squared, Fisher's exact, and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. A total of 200 R+ LTRs met inclusion criteria. Median age was 60 years (interquartile range [IQR], 54‐66 years), and 129 (65%) LTRs were male. Median Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score was 22 (IQR, 14‐31), and 178 (89%) patients received deceased donor transplants. CMV disease occurred in only 9 (5%) patients, similar to rates in previous studies of LTRs receiving high‐dose VGCV. Biopsy‐proven rejection occurred in 18 (9%) patients. Patients received VGCV prophylaxis for a median of 3.4 (IQR, 3.1‐4.3) months; 151 (76%) R+ LTRs receiving low‐dose VGCV developed leukopenia. Premature VGCV discontinuation and granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor use were infrequent and not significantly different between the 2 groups. In conclusion, low‐dose VGCV was safe and effective for prevention of CMV disease in our cohort of 200 R+ LTR and should be considered as an option in future guidelines. Liver Transplantation 24 616–622 2018 AASLD.
Crosstalk between mesenchymal stem cells and T regulatory cells is crucially important for the attenuation of acute liver injury
Authors: Gazdic Marina , Markovic Bojana Simovic , Arsenijevic Aleksandar , Jovicic Nemanja , Acovic Aleksandar , Harrell C. Randall , Fellabaum Crissy , Djonov Valentin , Arsenijevic Nebojsa , Lukic Miodrag L. , Volarevic Vladislav
Published: March 2018

One of the therapeutic options for the treatment of fulminant hepatitis is repopulation of intrahepatic regulatory cells because their pool is significantly reduced during acute liver failure. Although it is known that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which have beneficent effects in the therapy of fulminant hepatitis, may promote expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and regulatory B cells (Bregs), the role of these regulatory cells in MSC‐mediated attenuation of acute liver injury is unknown. Herewith, we described the molecular mechanisms involved in the crosstalk between MSCs and liver regulatory cells and analyzed the potential of MSC‐based therapy for the expansion of intrahepatic regulatory cells in mouse model of acute liver failure. MSC‐dependent attenuation of α‐galactosylceramide (α‐GalCer)–induced acute liver injury in mice was accompanied with an increased presence of interleukin (IL) 10–producing CD4+CD25+ forkhead box P3+ Tregs and IL10– and transforming growth factor β–producing marginal zone–like Bregs in the liver. Depletion of Bregs did not alter MSC‐based alleviation of acute liver failure, whereas depletion of Tregs completely abrogated hepatoprotective effects of MSCs and inhibited their capacity to attenuate hepatotoxicity of liver natural killer T cells (NKTs), indicating that Tregs, and not Bregs, were critically involved in MSC‐based modulation of acute liver inflammation. MSCs, in a paracrine, indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase–dependent manner, significantly increased the capacity of Tregs to produce immunosuppressive IL10 and to suppress hepatotoxicity of liver NKTs. Accordingly, adoptive transfer of MSC‐primed Tregs resulted in the complete attenuation of α‐GalCer–induced acute liver failure. In conclusion, our findings highlighted the crucial importance of Tregs for MSC‐based attenuation of acute liver failure and indicated the significance of MSC‐mediated priming of Tregs as a new therapeutic approach in Treg‐based therapy of acute liver injury. Liver Transplantation 24 687–702 2018 AASLD.
When pain is pleasure: Identifying consumer psychopaths
Authors: Karampournioti Evmorfia , Hennigs Nadine , Wiedmann Klaus‐Peter
Published: March 2018

In almost every product category, companies have incorporated the emergence of ethical and environmental consumerism into their business activities. Although ethical consumers are supposed to be concerned with a broad spectrum of ethical issues and demand that products and business practices meet their moral principles, a critical perspective supports the assumption that a dark side of consumer personality also exists. Consequently, the role of consumers has become a top priority, especially in the specific ascription of bright and dark personality traits when evaluating cruel business practices and unethical behavior. The paper aims to investigate whether anthropomorphic communication about cruel business tactics affects the formation of explicit and implicit brand attitudes and to shed light on the role of consumers’ personality traits in perceiving anthropomorphic cues and in forming brand attitudes. Referencing the Dark Triad of narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy in relation to animal cruelty in the cosmetics industry, the results of an empirical study (N = 610) provide evidence that perceptions of brands or companies conducting cruel practices differ between consumers with more distinct Dark Triad traits and those with stronger empathetic traits.
Power moderates the impact of desire for exclusivity on luxury experiential consumption
Authors: Kim Youngseon
Published: March 2018

This research examines the effect of desire for exclusivity on evaluations of luxury experiences and proposes a boundary condition for the effect. The scarcity effect literature suggests that consumers prefer scarce products due to limited supply because they appeal to consumers’ desire for exclusive consumption. Building on this thesis, the current research argues that luxury experiences are intrinsically scarce enough to appeal to consumers’ desire for exclusivity: Consumers with a strong desire for exclusivity will evaluate luxury experiences more favorably than those with a weak desire for exclusivity. A pilot study confirms a positive correlation between consumers’ desire for exclusivity and attitudes toward luxury experiences. Study 1 demonstrates that consumers with a strong desire for exclusivity show more favorable attitudes toward luxury experiences than those with a weak desire for exclusivity. Further, Study 2 finds that consumers’ power state (powerful vs. powerless) moderates the effect of desire for exclusivity on their affinity for luxury experiences: Only when feeling powerful do consumers with a strong desire for exclusivity evaluate luxury experience more favorably than those with a weak desire for exclusivity. However, this is not the case when consumers feel powerless.
Short brand stories on packaging: An examination of consumer responses
Authors: Solja Eeva , Liljander Veronica , Söderlund Magnus
Published: March 2018

The persuasiveness of stories and their influence on consumers have been acknowledged in marketing, particularly within the advertising field. In marketing practice, brand stories are increasingly also appearing on product packages. However, packages differ from ads in significant ways as communication channels; for example, the space for messages on a package is limited by the size of the package. This study reports findings from two experiments comparing consumer responses to fast‐moving consumer good (FMCG) packages with and without short brand stories. The findings show that even a short brand story included on FMCG packaging has a positive impact on consumers’ affective, attitudinal, product value, and behavioral intention responses to the brand.
My username is IN! The influence of inward vs. outward wandering usernames on judgments of online seller trustworthiness
Authors: Silva Rita R. , Topolinski Sascha
Published: March 2018

Previous research showed that words for which the consonant articulation spots wander from the front of the mouth to the back (e.g., EPOK; inward) are preferred over words with the reversed sequence (e.g., EKOP; outward). In the present research, we extended this effect to judgments of online seller trustworthiness and choice of transaction partners. In seven experiments in the context of the online auction market eBay, we show that the mere use of inward compared to outward usernames increases the level of trustworthiness ascribed to online sellers (Experiments 1A, 1B, 2, 4A, 4B) and the likelihood that a seller is chosen for the economic transaction (Experiment 5). As a boundary condition, this effect is reduced when diagnostic information about the seller's reputation is introduced (Experiment 3). We discuss these results in terms of their practical implications for marketing strategies of online sellers and in terms of their relation to research on interpersonal trust.
Triptolide sensitizes breast cancer cells to Doxorubicin through the DNA damage response inhibition
Authors: Deng Yu , Li Fulun , He Pinglin , Yang Yafei , Yang Jin , Zhang Yamei , Liu Junying , Tong Yongping , Li Qingfeng , Mei Xian , Shu Zengyi , Zhao Qi
Published: March 2018

Triptolide is an active component from a Chinese herb, Tripterygium wilfordii which has been applied for treating immune‐related diseases over centuries. Recently, it was reported that a variety of cancer cell lines could be sensitized to DNA‐damage based chemotherapy drugs in combination with Triptolide treatment. In the present study, we show that a short time exposure (3 h) to Triptolide, which did not trigger apoptosis, could specifically increase breast cancer cells sensitivity to Doxorubicin rather than other chemotherapy drugs including Paclitaxel, Fluorouracil, and Mitomycin C. Further studies revealed Triptolide downregulated ATM expression and inhibited DNA damage response to DNA double‐ strand breaks. Moreover, the chemosensitization effect to Doxorubicin from Triptolide was attenuated by overexpression of ATM in breast cancer cells. Our findings suggest that Triptolide specifically chemosensitizes breast cancer cells to Doxorubicin prior to apoptosis initiation through downregulating ATM expression and inhibiting DNA damage response.
Germline control of somatic Kras mutations in mouse lung tumors
Authors: Borrego Andrea , Cabrera Wafa H.K. , Jensen José R. , Correa Mara , Ribeiro Orlando G. , Starobinas Nancy , De Franco Marcelo , Pettinicchio Angela , Dragani Tommaso A. , Ibañez Olga C.M. , Manenti Giacomo
Published: March 2018

Somatic KRAS mutations are common in human lung adenocarcinomas and are associated with worse prognosis. In mice, Kras is frequently mutated in both spontaneous and experimentally induced lung tumors, although the pattern of mutation varies among strains, suggesting that such mutations are not random events. We tested if the occurrence of Kras mutations is under genetic control in two mouse intercrosses. Codon 61 mutations were prevalent, but the patterns of nucleotide changes differed between the intercrosses. Whole genome analysis with SNPs in (A/J x C57BL/6)F4 mice revealed a significant linkage between a locus on chromosome 19 and 2 particular codon 61 variants (CTA and CGA). In (AIRmax × AIRmin) F2 mice, there was a significant linkage between SNPs located on distal chromosome 6 (around 135 Mbp) and the frequency of codon 61 mutation. These results reveal the presence of two loci, on chromosomes 6 and 19, that modulate Kras mutation frequency in different mouse intercrosses. These findings indicate that somatic mutation frequency and type are not simple random events, but are under genetic control.