bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural features of iron‐phosphate glass
Authors: Reis Signo T. , Pontuschka Walter M. , Moguš‐Milanković Andrea , Partiti Carmen S. M.
Published: March 2017

This paper reports a study and discusses the role of Fe ions in the inhibition of corrosion of iron phosphate glasses. The structure of the 40Fe2O3–60P2O5 (mol%) glass, having a confirmed dissolution rate in aqueous solution at 90°C superior to borosilicate glasses, was investigated. Samples were crystallized at characteristic temperatures defined by differential thermal analysis and analyzed by X‐ray diffraction. Crystalline phases of Fe2Fe[P2O7]2 and Fe4[P2O7]3 were detected. The hyperfine parameters from the Mössbauer spectrum indicate that both Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions are in octahedral coordination, and 18% of the Fe3+ ions in the starting batch are reduced to Fe2+ ions after melting. The broad and symmetric spectra centered in g≈2.0 from the EPR measurements indicate the presence of two or more Fe interacting ions occupying sites of relatively high local symmetry.
Water‐based freeze casting: Adjusting hydrophobic polymethylsiloxane for obtaining hierarchically ordered porous SiOC
Authors: Zhang Huixing , Fidelis Clara Lana , Serva Ana Luiza Teixeira , Wilhelm Michaela , Rezwan Kurosch
Published: March 2017

The hydrophobic properties of methyl poly siloxane (MK) were pushed into the “hydrophilic” range by cross‐linking it with (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) and subsequent pyrolysis to enable water‐based freeze casting. Filler properties are investigated by varying the ratios of MK to APTES (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5), and pyrolysis temperatures (400°C, 500°C, 600°C) for the purpose of determining an optimal set of characteristics for freeze casting. Additionally, filler selection for this purpose is facilitated by analysis of zeta potential values and vapor adsorption. It was found that water‐based freeze casting with hybrid fillers, followed by a pyrolysis step (600°C‐700°C), leads to a SiOC ceramic monolith with a lamellar pore morphology and a hierarchically ordered micro/meso/macropore structure. Samples pyrolyzed at 1000°C contain mesopores, having a SSA as high as 51.6 m2/g. The hierarchically porous structure is very promising for applications involving gas or liquid transportation.
Reducing workplace bias toward people with disabilities with the use of imagined contact
Authors: Carvalho‐Freitas Maria Nivalda de , Stathi Sofia
Published: March 2017

In this research we test the effectiveness of imagined intergroup contact as an intervention that improves attitudes toward people with disabilities in organizational settings. We conducted two experimental studies with the aim of examining the bias‐reduction effects of imagined contact on attitudes toward people with disabilities. Furthermore, we examined how imagined contact can be most effective in improving attitudes in work situations. Both studies yielded evidence that the imagined contact intervention significantly impacted on two dependent variables: expected work‐related outcomes and support for the rights of people with disabilities, via enhancing the belief in performance level. We discuss the results in the context of developing effective and accessible intervention tools, which can be used in workplace trainings, and can promote anti‐discriminatory policies in organizations.
Evaluating the reliability of species distribution models with an indirect measure of bird reproductive performance
Authors: Aizpurua Olatz , Cantú‐Salazar Lisette , Martin Gilles San , Sardà‐Palomera Francesc , Gargallo Gabriel , Herrando Sergi , Brotons Lluís , Titeux Nicolas
Published: March 2017

Measures of fitness such as reproductive performance are considered reliable indicators of habitat quality for a species. Such measures are, however, only available in a restricted number of sites, which prevents them from being used to quantify habitat quality across landscapes or regions. Alternatively, species presence records can be used along with environmental variables to build models that predict the distribution of species across larger spatial extents. Model predictions are often used for management purposes as they are assumed to describe the quality of the habitats to support a species. Yet, given that species are often present both in optimal and suboptimal areas, the use of data collected during the breeding season to build these models may potentially result in misleading predictions of habitat quality for the reproduction of the species, with potentially significant conservation consequences. In this study we analysed the relationship between fitness parameters informing on habitat quality for reproduction and predictions of species distribution models at multiple spatial scales using two independent sets of data. For 19 passerine bird species, we compared an indirect measure of reproductive performance (ratio of juveniles‐to‐adults) – obtained from Constant Effort Sites (CES) mist‐netting data in Catalonia – with the predictions of models based on bird presence records collected during the Catalan Breeding Bird Atlas (CBBA). A positive relationship between the predictions derived from species distribution models and the reproductive performance of the species was found for almost half of the species at one or more spatial scales. This result suggests that species distribution models may help to predict habitat quality for some species over some extents. However, caution is needed as this is not consistent for all species at all scales. Further work based on species‐ and scale‐specific approaches is now required to understand in which situations species distribution models provide predictions that are in line with reproductive performance.
The science of salt: A regularly updated systematic review of salt and health outcomes (December 2015–March 2016)
Authors: Wong Michelle M. Y. , Arcand JoAnne , Leung Alexander A. , Thout Sudhir Raj , Campbell Norm R. C. , Webster Jacqui
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this review was to identify, summarize, and critically appraise studies on dietary salt relating to health outcomes that were published from December 2015 to March 2016. The search strategy was adapted from a previous systematic review on dietary salt and health. Overall, 13 studies were included in the review: one study assessed cardiovascular events, nine studies assessed prevalence or incidence of blood pressure or hypertension, one study assessed kidney disease, and two studies assessed other health outcomes (obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease). Four studies were selected for detailed appraisal and commentary. One study met the minimum methodologic criteria and found an increased risk associated with lower sodium intake in patients with heart failure. All other studies identified in this review demonstrated positive associations between dietary salt and adverse health outcomes.
Feasibility of catheter ablation renal denervation in “mild” resistant hypertension
Authors: Chen Shaojie , Kiuchi Marcio Galindo , Acou Willem‐Jan , Derndorfer Michael , Wang Jiazhi , Li Ruotian , Kollias Georgios , Martinek Martin , Kiuchi Tetsuaki , Pürerfellner Helmut , Liu Shaowen
Published: March 2017

Renal denervation (RDN) has been proposed as a novel interventional antihypertensive technique. However, existing evidence was mainly from patients with severe resistant hypertension. The authors aimed to evaluate the efficacy of RDN in patients with resistant hypertension with mildly elevated blood pressure (BP). Studies of RDN in patients with mild resistant hypertension (systolic office BP 140–160 mm Hg despite treatment with three antihypertensive drugs including one diuretic, or mean systolic BP by 24‐hour ambulatory BP measurement [ABPM] 135–150 mm Hg) were included. Two observational and one randomized cohort were identified (109 patients in the RDN group and 36 patients in the control group). Overall, the mean age of patients was 62±10 years, and 69.7% were male. Before‐after comparison showed that RDN significantly reduced ABPM as compared with the baseline systolic ABPM, from 146.3±13 mm Hg at baseline to 134.6±14.7 mm Hg at 6‐month follow‐up and diastolic ABPM from 80.8±9.4 mm Hg at baseline to 75.5±9.8 mm Hg at 6‐month follow up (both P<.001). This significant effect was not observed in the control group. Between‐group comparison showed a greater change in ABPM in the RDN group as compared with that in the control group (change in systolic ABPM: −11.7±9.9 mm Hg in RDN vs −3.5±9.6 mm Hg in controls [P<.001]; change in diastolic ABPM: −5.3±6.3 mm Hg in RDN vs −2.1±5.5 mm Hg in control [P=.007]). RDN was also associated with a significantly decreased office systolic/diastolic BP and reduced number of antihypertensive medications. No severe adverse events were found during follow‐up. RDN seems feasible to treat patients with mild resistant hypertension.
Influence of high risk of obstructive sleep apnea on adherence to antihypertensive treatment in outpatients
Authors: Righi Camila G. , Martinez Denis , Gonçalves Sandro C. , Gus Miguel , Moreira Leila B. , Fuchs Sandra C. , Fuchs Flavio D.
Published: March 2017

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common cause of high blood pressure (BP). Many patients, however, have uncontrolled BP because of nonadherence to antihypertensive medication. The possibility that OSA influences adherence has not been investigated to date. The authors sought to explore the possible association between high risk of OSA and nonadherence. This study was carried out in a hypertension outpatient clinic. Adherence to medication, high risk of OSA, and sleepiness were evaluated in a cross‐sectional study. These variables were identified using the eight‐item Morisky, STOP‐Bang, and Epworth scales, respectively. A total of 416 patients with hypertension were enrolled (32% male, aged 65±11 years). Nonadherence was identified in 71 (17%) individuals. The prevalence of high risk of OSA was 323 (78%) and of somnolence was 136 (33%). High risk of OSA was associated with nonadherence, showing a prevalence ratio (PR) of 2.6 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3–5.6) and retained significance after adjustment for sleepiness (PR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.1–4.9 [P=.011]). Sleepiness was also associated with nonadherence (PR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1–2.6 [P=.003]). High risk of OSA and sleepiness are associated with nonadherence. These conditions, if treated, may allow for achieving better outcomes and improvement of adherence to medication.
Ablation of endothelial prolyl hydroxylase domain protein‐2 promotes renal vascular remodelling and fibrosis in mice
Authors: Wang Shuo , Zeng Heng , Chen Sean T. , Zhou Liying , Xie Xue‐Jiao , He Xiaochen , Tao Yong‐Kang , Tuo Qin‐hui , Deng Changqin , Liao Duan‐fang , Chen Jian‐Xiong
Published: March 2017

Accumulating evidence demonstrates that hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF‐α) hydroxylase system has a critical role in vascular remodelling. Using an endothelial‐specific prolyl hydroxylase domain protein‐2 (PHD2) knockout (PHD2ECKO) mouse model, this study investigates the regulatory role of endothelial HIF‐α hydroxylase system in the development of renal fibrosis. Knockout of PHD2 in EC up‐regulated the expression of HIF‐1α and HIF‐2α, resulting in a significant decline of renal function as evidenced by elevated levels of serum creatinine. Deletion of PHD2 increased the expression of Notch3 and transforming growth factor (TGF‐β1) in EC, thus further causing glomerular arteriolar remodelling with an increased pericyte and pericyte coverage. This was accompanied by a significant elevation of renal resistive index (RI). Moreover, knockout of PHD2 in EC up‐regulated the expression of fibroblast‐specific protein‐1 (FSP‐1) and increased interstitial fibrosis in the kidney. These alterations were strongly associated with up‐regulation of Notch3 and TGF‐β1. We concluded that the expression of PHD2 in endothelial cells plays a critical role in renal fibrosis and vascular remodelling in adult mice. Furthermore, these changes were strongly associated with up‐regulation of Notch3/TGF‐β1 signalling and excessive pericyte coverage.
MiR‐9 is involved in TGF‐β1‐induced lung cancer cell invasion and adhesion by targeting SOX7
Authors: Han Lichun , Wang Wei , Ding Wei , Zhang Lijian
Published: March 2017

MicroRNA (miR)‐9 plays different roles in different cancer types. Here, we investigated the role of miR‐9 in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell invasion and adhesion in vitro and explored whether miR‐9 was involved in transforming growth factor‐beta 1 (TGF‐β1)‐induced NSCLC cell invasion and adhesion by targeting SOX7. The expression of miR‐9 and SOX7 in human NSCLC tissues and cell lines was examined by reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Gain‐of‐function and loss‐of‐function experiments were performed on A549 and HCC827 cells to investigate the effect of miR‐9 and SOX7 on NSCLC cell invasion and adhesion in the presence or absence of TGF‐β1. Transwell–Matrigel assay and cell adhesion assay were used to examine cell invasion and adhesion abilities. Luciferase reporter assay was performed to determine whether SOX7 was a direct target of miR‐9. We found miR‐9 was up‐regulated and SOX7 was down‐regulated in human NSCLC tissues and cell lines. Moreover, SOX7 expression was negatively correlated with miR‐9 expression. miR‐9 knockdown or SOX7 overexpression could suppress TGF‐β1‐induced NSCLC cell invasion and adhesion. miR‐9 directly targets the 3′ untranslated region of SOX7, and SOX7 protein expression was down‐regulated by miR‐9. TGF‐β1 induced miR‐9 expression in NSCLC cells. miR‐9 up‐regulation led to enhanced NSCLC cell invasion and adhesion; however, these effects could be attenuated by SOX7 overexpression. We concluded that miR‐9 expression was negatively correlated with SOX7 expression in human NSCLC. miR‐9 was up‐regulated by TGF‐β1 and contributed to TGF‐β1‐induced NSCLC cell invasion and adhesion by directly targeting SOX7.
TNF‐α promotes survival and migration of MSCs under oxidative stress via NF‐κB pathway to attenuate intimal hyperplasia in vein grafts
Authors: Bai Xiao , Xi Jie , Bi Yanwen , Zhao Xin , Bing Weidong , Meng Xiangbin , Liu Yimin , Zhu Zhonglai , Song Guangmin
Published: March 2017

The oxidative stress caused by endothelial injury is involved in intimal hyperplasia (IH) in vein grafts. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can home to injured intima and promote endothelial repair. However, MSC apoptosis is increased accompanied by decreased functional activity under oxidative stress. Thus, we investigate whether tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) can promote the survival and activity of MSCs under oxidative stress to reduce IH more effectively, and establish what role the NF‐κB pathway plays in this. In this study, we preconditioned MSCs with TNF‐α (TNF‐α‐PCMSCs) for 24 hrs and measured the activation of the IKK/NF‐κB pathway. EdU and transwell assays were performed to assess proliferation and migration of TNF‐α‐PCMSCs. Apoptosis and migration of TNF‐α‐PCMSCs were evaluated in conditions of oxidative stress by analysis of the expression of Bcl‐2 and CXCR4 proteins. TNF‐α‐PCMSCs were transplanted into a vein graft model, so that cell homing could be tracked, and endothelial apoptosis and IH of vein grafts were measured. The results demonstrated that TNF‐α promotes proliferation and migration of MSCs. Furthermore, survival and migration of TNF‐α‐PCMSCs under oxidative stress were both enhanced. A greater number of MSCs migrated to the intima of vein grafts after preconditioning with TNF‐α, and the formation of neointima was significantly reduced. These effects could be partially abolished by IKK XII (NF‐κB inhibitor). All these results indicate that preconditioning with TNF‐α can promote survival and migration of MSCs under oxidative stress via the NF‐κB pathway and thus attenuate IH of vein grafts.
Role of microbial communities in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases and caries
Authors: Mira Alex , Simon‐Soro A. , Curtis M. A.
Published: March 2017

The microbiological characteristics of both caries and periodontal disease show significant change from those in health. In both instances, there is evidence of co‐association of different organisms into consortia.

Aim

We review and summarize a number of issues pertinent to the community organization and functional activity of the bacterial populations resident on supra‐ and subgingival tooth surface and the influence of these populations on disease.

Methods

A literature review was undertaken with a particular emphasis on recent publications involving high‐throughput, deep sequencing approaches to the analysis of microbial populations and their functional activity.

Results

There is increasing evidence to suggest that both caries and periodontal disease represent dysbiotic states of the oral microbiome. The mode of acquisition of the oral microbial communities may be less passive than previously recognized but once established remains relatively stable within an individual although there are very significant site variations. A repertoire of stable dysbiotic states may occur in both caries and periodontitis involving different microbial community structures with potentially similar functional properties.

Conclusions

The processes which underlie the development and stability of microbial populations in the healthy mouth are fundamental to understanding how these populations are transformed into a dysbiotic state in disease.
Socio‐behavioural aspects in the prevention and control of dental caries and periodontal diseases at an individual and population level
Authors: Sälzer Sonja , Alkilzy Mohammad , Slot Dagmar E. , Dörfer Christof E. , Schmoeckel Julian , Splieth Christian H. ,   Chairs of Working Group 3,   ORCA
Published: March 2017

Aim

Aim was to systematically review behavioural aspects in the prevention and control of dental caries and periodontal diseases at individual and population level.

Material & Methods

With regard to caries, MEDLINE/PubMed was searched on three subheadings focusing on early childhood, proximal and root caries. For periodontal diseases, a meta‐review on systematic reviews was performed; thus, the search strategy included specific interventions to change behaviour in order to perform a meta‐review on systematic reviews. After extraction of data and conclusions, the potential risk of bias was estimated and the emerging evidence was graded.

Results

Regarding early childhood, proximal and root caries, 28, 6 and 0 papers, respectively, could be included, which predominantly reported on cohort studies. Regarding periodontal diseases, five systematic reviews were included. High evidence of mostly high magnitude was retrieved for behavioural interventions in early childhood caries (ECC), weak evidence for a small effect in proximal caries and an unclear effect of specific informational/motivational programmes on prevention of periodontal diseases and no evidence of root caries.

Conclusion

Early childhood caries can be successfully prevented by population‐based preventive programmes via aiming at the change in behaviour. The effect of individual specific motivational/informational interventions has not yet been clearly demonstrated neither for the prevention of caries nor for periodontal diseases.
Gingival recession and root caries in the ageing population: a critical evaluation of treatments
Authors: Heasman Peter A. , Ritchie Mark , Asuni Abisola , Gavillet Erika , Simonsen Janne L. , Nyvad Bente
Published: March 2017

Aim

To review evidence for the treatments of gingival recession and root caries in older populations.

Materials & Methods

A systematic approach was adopted to identify reviews and articles to allow us to evaluate the treatments for gingival recession and root caries. Searches were performed in PubMed, Medline and Embase, the Cochrane trials register and bibliographies of European and World Workshops.

Observations

Gingival recession: We identified no articles that focussed specifically on older populations. Conversely, no evidence suggested that Miller class I and II lesions should be managed differently in older patients when compared to younger cohorts. Six systematic reviews included older patients and suggested that connective tissue grafts are the treatment of choice, alone or in combination with enamel matrix derivative.

Root caries can be controlled at the population level by daily brushing with fluoride‐containing toothpastes, whilst active decay may be inactivated using professional application of fluoride varnishes/solutions or self‐applied high‐fluoride toothpaste. Active root caries lesions that cannot be cleaned properly by the patient may be restored by minimally invasive techniques.

Conclusions

Gingival recession and root caries will become more prevalent as patients retain their teeth for longer. Whilst surgical (gingival recession) and non‐operative approaches (root caries) currently appear to be favoured, more evidence is needed to identify the most appropriate strategies for older people.
Reproductive suppression follows threats to child survival
Authors: Saxton K. B. , Gemmill A. , Catalano R. A.
Published: March 2017

Natural selection presumably conserved mechanisms that allow females to block or terminate gestation when environmental circumstances threaten the survival of offspring. One example of this adaptive reproductive suppression, the Bruce effect, has been identified in several species, both in the laboratory and in the wild. Although descriptive epidemiology reports low fertility among women experiencing stressful circumstances, attempts to detect a Bruce effect in humans have been rare and limited. We contribute to this limited work by examining the relationship between the odds of child death and the sex ratio at birth in Sweden for the years 1751–1840. We find evidence of a generalized Bruce effect in humans in that unexpected changes in child mortality predict opposite unexpected changes in the secondary sex ratio in the following year, even after adjusting for period life expectancy. Our analysis broadens the scope of the Bruce effect literature to include humans, suggesting that women, through noncognitive decisional biology, adjust reproductive strategies and investments in response to changing environmental conditions.
Targeted advertising, platform competition, and privacy
Authors: Kox Henk , Straathof Bas , Zwart Gijsbert
Published: March 2017

Targeted advertising can benefit consumers through lower prices for access to web sites. Yet, if consumers dislike that web sites collect their personal information, their welfare may go down. We study competition for consumers between web sites that can show targeted advertisements. We find that more targeting increases competition and reduces the web sites' profits, but yet in equilibrium web sites choose maximum targeting as they cannot credibly commit to low targeting. A privacy protection policy can be beneficial for both consumers and web sites. If consumers are heterogeneous in their concerns for privacy, a policy that allows choice between two levels of privacy will be better. Optimal privacy protection takes into account that the more intense competition on the high‐targeting market segment also benefits consumers on the less competitive segment. Consumer surplus is maximized by allowing them a choice between a high‐targeting regime and a low‐targeting regime which affords more privacy.
Scientific research, firm heterogeneity, and foreign R&D locations of multinational firms
Authors: Belderbos René , Leten Bart , Suzuki Shinya
Published: March 2017

We examine the influence of host countries’ scientific research strengths on global R&D location choices by multinational firms. In an analysis of 277 new R&D activities identified for 175 firms in 40 host countries and 30 technology fields, we find that the strength of relevant university research positively affects the likelihood that host countries attract foreign R&D. When allowing for firm heterogeneity, university scientific research appears only a significant factor for firms with a strong science orientation in their R&D activities. Host countries’ corporate scientific research has no systematic influence on R&D location choices. Empirical results are replicated in an analysis at the regional level covering regions in Europe, the United States, and Japan.
Some observations on the biology of two rarely seen deep‐sea chimaerids, Chimaera carophila and Hydrolagus homonycteris
Authors: Finucci B. , Stevens D. W. , Jones E. G. , Dunn M. R.
Published: March 2017

Chimaera carophila (n = 45) and Hydrolagus homonycteris (n = 11), two deep‐sea chimaerids rarely caught in the waters off New Zealand, were collected from research trawl catches and commercial fishery catches around New Zealand at depths between 400 and 1300 m, between 2014 and 2016. Additional preserved specimens of both species (n = 58) from museum collections were analysed for size, sex and maturity. External assessment of male claspers and a combination of internal assessments of female gonad mass and oviducal gland width, were used to determine maturity. For both species, length at first maturity was 0·70–0·82 of their maximum observed chimaera length (LC), with females maturing at a larger size. Length at maturity for C. carophila (LC range: 28·7–103·9 cm) was estimated at 72·5 cm LC for males (n = 163) and 82·5 LC for females (n = 58). In H. homonycteris, length at maturity (length range: 78·6–99·8 cm LC) was estimated at 79·1 cm LC for males (n = 51) and 80·1 cm LC for females (n = 17). Ovarian fecundity was up to 31 for C. carophila and sperm storage was confirmed in the oviducal gland of this species. Both species preyed on benthic invertebrates. Some C. carophila and H. homonycteris inhabit depths beyond most current fisheries, but both species appear to be relatively rare and have reproductive parameters characteristic of low productivity, which may make these species vulnerable to population decline if mortality was to increase in the future.
Mortality and hemorrhagic complications associated with radiofrequency ablation for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients on hemodialysis for end‐stage renal disease: A nationwide survey
Authors: Sato Masaya , Tateishi Ryosuke , Yasunaga Hideo , Matsui Hiroki , Horiguchi Hiromasa , Fushimi Kiyohide , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: March 2017

Background and Aim

Because of the rarity of invasive treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients on hemodialysis (HD) for end‐stage renal disease (ESRD), the risks associated with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in such patients remain uncertain. We used a nationwide database to investigate in‐hospital mortality and hemorrhagic complications following RFA in patients on HD for ESRD.

Methods

Using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, we enrolled patients on HD for ESRD who underwent RFA for HCC. For each patient, we randomly selected up to four non‐dialyzed patients using a matched‐pair sampling method based on patient age, sex, treatment hospital, and treatment year. In‐hospital mortality and hemorrhagic complications were compared between dialyzed and non‐dialyzed patients following RFA.

Results

We compared matched‐pair samples of 437 dialyzed and 1345 non‐dialyzed patients. In patients on HD for ESRD, mortality was significantly lower in those aged ≤70 years than in older patients (P = 0.02). In‐hospital mortality was significantly higher in dialyzed ESRD patients than in non‐dialyzed patients (1.1% vs 0.15%, respectively; odds ratio = 7.77, P < 0.001). Hemorrhagic complications differed significantly between dialyzed ESRD patients and non‐dialyzed patients (3.4% vs 0.87%, respectively; odds ratio = 4.75, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In‐hospital mortality following RFA was higher in dialyzed ESRD patients than in non‐dialyzed patients. The indications for RFA in dialysis‐dependent patients should be considered carefully. Patient age may be a useful indicator when considering RFA for HCC in patients on HD for ESRD.
Microscopic dual‐energy CT (microDECT): a flexible tool for multichannelex vivo3D imaging of biological specimens
Authors: HANDSCHUH S. , BEISSER C.J. , RUTHENSTEINER B. , METSCHER B.D.
Published: March 2017

Dual‐energy computed tomography (DECT) uses two different x‐ray energy spectra in order to differentiate between tissues, materials or elements in a single sample or patient. DECT is becoming increasingly popular in clinical imaging and preclinicalin vivoimaging of small animal models, but there have been only very few reports onex vivoDECT of biological samples at microscopic resolutions. The present study has three main aims. First, we explore the potential of microscopic DECT (microDECT) for delivering isotropic multichannel 3D images of fixed biological samples with standard commercial laboratory‐based microCT setups at spatial resolutions reaching below 10m. Second, we aim for retaining the maximum image resolution and quality during the material decomposition. Third, we want to test the suitability for microDECT imaging of different contrast agents currently used forex vivostaining of biological samples. To address these aims, we used microCT scans of four different samples stained with x‐ray dense contrast agents. MicroDECT scans were acquired with five different commercial microCT scanners from four companies. We present a detailed description of the microDECT workflow, including sample preparation, image acquisition, image processing and postreconstruction material decomposition, which may serve as practical guide for applying microDECT. The MATLAB script (The Mathworks Inc., Natick, MA, USA) used for material decomposition (including a graphical user interface) is provided as a supplement to this paper (https://github.com/microDECT/DECTDec). In general, the presented microDECT workflow yielded satisfactory results for all tested specimens. Original scan resolutions have been mostly retained in the separate material fractions after basis material decomposition. In addition to decomposition of mineralized tissues (inherent sample contrast) and stained soft tissues, we present a case of double labelling of different soft tissues with subsequent material decomposition. We conclude that, in contrast toin vivoDECT examinations, smallex vivospecimens offer some clear advantages regarding technical parameters of the microCT setup and the use of contrast agents. These include a higher flexibility in source peak voltages and x‐ray filters, a lower degree of beam hardening due to small sample size, the lack of restriction to nontoxic contrast agents and the lack of a limit in exposure time and radiation dose. We argue that microDECT, because of its flexibility combined with already established contrast agents and the vast number of currently unexploited stains, will in future represent an important technique for various applications in biological research.
PKC epsilon‐dependent calcium oscillations associated with metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 prevent agonist‐mediated receptor desensitization in astrocytes
Authors: Vergouts Maxime , Doyen Pierre J. , Peeters Michael , Opsomer Remi , Michiels Thomas , Hermans Emmanuel
Published: March 2017

A critical role has been assigned to protein kinase C (PKC)ε in the control of intracellular calcium oscillations triggered upon activation of type 5 metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR5) in cultured astrocytes. Nevertheless, the physiological significance of this particular signalling profile in the response of astrocytes to glutamate remains largely unknown. Considering that kinases are frequently involved in the regulation of G protein‐coupled receptors, we have examined a putative link between the nature of the calcium signals and the response regulation upon repeated exposures of astrocytes to the agonist (S)‐3,5‐dihydroxyphenylglycine. We show that upon repeated mGluR5 activations, a robust desensitization was observed in astrocytes grown in culture conditions favouring the peak‐plateau‐type response. At variance, in cell cultures where calcium oscillations were predominating, the response was fully preserved even during repeated challenges with the agonist. Pharmacological inhibition of PKCε or genetic suppression of this isoform using shRNA was found to convert an oscillatory calcium profile to a sustained calcium mobilization and this latter profile was subject to desensitization upon repetitive mGluR5 activation. Our results suggest a yet undocumented scheme in which the activity of PKCε contributes to preserve the receptor sensitivity upon repeated or sustained activations.

image

Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.13797.
Removal of subcutaneous lipomas: Interest of liposuction
Authors: Gaucher Sonia , Maladry David , Silitra Ana Maria , Documet David , Philippe Henri‐Jean
Published: March 2017

Subcutaneous lipomas are very common tumors. We report our experience of treatment by liposuction in carefully selected patients, initially referred for conventional surgical excision.
Decorin-loaded poly lactic-co-glycolic acid nanoparticles modified by anti-alpha fetoprotein antibody: preparation, proliferation inhibition and induced apoptosis effects on HepG2 cells in vitro
Authors: Yang Qiaoli , Wang Shuyue , Wang Yuan , Qu Yane , Xue Jun , Mi Yang , Wang Yanhong , Luo Xuguang , Deng Zhihua , Wang Guiqin
Published: March 2017

Objectives

Decorin (DCN) is a negative regulatory factor for the growth of cancer cells and can inhibit the proliferation, metastasis of cancer cells and angiogenesis in cancer tissues. The aims of this study were to prepare the nanoparticles consisting of DCN and poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) modified by anti-alpha fetoprotein (AFP) monoclonal antibody (mAb) and to examine the conventional physical properties, the in-vitro release of DCN and the targeting effect of these nanoparticles on HepG2 cells.

Key findings

The encapsulated plasmid was slowly and steadily released from the nanoparticles. The targeted PLGA nanoparticles were initiatively taken in HepG2 cells high-efficiently. According to the results of RT-PCR, DCN gene in AFPmAb-PLGA-rhDCN nanoparticles can be expressed in HepG2 cells successfully. These nanoparticles significantly inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 cells and induced apoptosis. The mRNA expression of Bcl-2 gene in the AFPmAb-PLGA-rhDCN-treated groups appeared significantly to decrease and the caspase-3 gene had the opposite trend as compared with that of control group (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

These studies revealed that these nanoparticles were capable of specifically targeting the HepG2 cells and inhibiting the proliferation and they induce apoptosis of HepG2 cells in vitro, which was in a dose- and time-dependent manner.
Single‐aliquot, non‐bronchoscopic bronchoalveolar lavage in the diagnosis of metastatic mammary tumours in dogs
Authors: Pavelski M. , Correa Leite N. , Pedri E. , Guérios S. D. , De Sousa R. S. , Rodrigues Froes T. , Triches Dornbusch P.
Published: March 2017

Objective

To evaluate the use of bronchoalveolar lavage as an auxiliary tool for the diagnosis of neoplastic lung metastasis from mammary tumours in dogs.

Methods

A single‐institution prospective observational study including 20 healthy dogs and 30 with mammary tumours. Thoracic radiography and single‐aliquot, non‐bronchoscopic bronchoalveolar lavage with cytology interpretation was performed in all animals and the results compared between groups.

Results

Dogs with mammary gland tumours and radiographic evidence of pulmonary metastasis had significantly higher relative neutrophil counts in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid than dogs with tumours without evidence of metastasis. In only one dog, in which thoracic radiographs were normal, were malignant cells identified in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid.

Clinical Significance

Inflammatory bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in dogs with mammary gland tumours may suggest metastatic disease. Bronchoalveolar lavage does not appear to be sensitive for identifying malignant cells.
Comparison of routinely used intestinal biopsy forceps in dogs: an ex vivo histopathological approach
Authors: Dahan J. , Semin M. O. , Monton C. , Amiriantz S. , Concordet D. , Raymond‐Letron I. , Dossin O.
Published: March 2017

Objectives

To compare the quality of duodenal and ileal samples obtained with different biopsy forceps.

Methods

Fifteen dogs were included in a prospective ex vivo study. After euthanasia, the duodenum and the ileum were sampled with four different forceps and evaluated according to a standardised scoring system. The biopsy forceps evaluated had alligator jaws or cups with smooth edge with or without a needle.

Results

The global quality of the biopsies was better in the ileum that in the duodenum regardless of the biopsy forceps. Biopsy forceps with smooth edge including a needle resulted in fewer artefacts than biopsy forceps with smooth edge but no needle in both sites and those with alligator jaws without a needle provided deeper biopsies than those with smooth edge without a needle only in the duodenum. There was no effect of the biopsy forceps type on the size of the biopsies.

Clinical Significance

Our findings may aid in choosing the appropriate type of forceps for intestinal biopsy.
Role of HLA‐DP and HLA‐DQ on the clearance of hepatitis B virus and the risk of chronic infection in a multiethnic population
Authors: Trinks Julieta , Nishida Nao , Hulaniuk María Laura , Caputo Mariela , Tsuchiura Takayo , Marciano Sebastián , Haddad Leila , Blejer Jorgelina , Bartoli Sonia , Ameigeiras Beatriz , Frías Silvia E. , Vistarini Cecilia , Heinrich Fabiana , Remondegui Carlos , Ceballos Susana , Echenique Gustavo , Charre Samman Miguel , D'Amico Claudia , Rojas Amalia , Martínez Alfredo , Ridruejo Ezequiel , Fernández Roberto J. , Burgos Pratx Leandro , Salamone Horacio , Nuñez Félix , Galdame Omar , Gadano Adrián , Corach Daniel , Sugiyama Masaya , Flichman Diego , Tokunaga Katsushi , Mizokami Masashi
Published: March 2017

Background & Aims

HBV infection exhibits geographical variation in its distribution in South America. While HBV rates are low in central Argentina, the north‐western region exhibits intermediate HBV rates. Unfortunately, the reasons that could explain this difference are still unknown.

Methods

A total of 1440 Argentines were recruited and grouped into HBV patients, HBV‐resolved individuals and healthy controls. Genetic ancestry was assessed by analysis of biparental lineages and ancestry autosomal typing. SNPs of HLA‐DPA1 (rs3077), HLA‐DPB1 (rs9277542), HLA‐DQB1 (rs2856718) and HLA‐DQB2 (rs7453920) were determined, and HBV genotyping was performed by phylogenetic analysis in HBV patients.

Results

Native American ancestry prevailed in the north‐western region when compared with central Argentina (P<.0001). However, no differences were observed among the three groups of each region. The distribution of HBV genotypes revealed significant differences (P<.0001). Three SNPs (rs3077, rs9277542 and rs7453920) showed a significant association with protection against chronic HBV and viral clearance in both regions. The remaining SNP showed a significant association with susceptibility to chronic HBV. The frequency rates of rs3077‐T, related to protection against chronic HBV and viral clearance, were lower in north‐western Argentina when compared with central Argentina. The same uneven frequency rates were observed for SNP rs9277542.

Conclusions

This is the first study addressing the associations between the HLA‐DP and HLA‐DQ loci and the protection against chronic HBV and viral clearance in a multiethnic South American population. The uneven distribution of HLA‐DP and HLA‐DQ supports the HBV epidemiological differences observed in these two regions of Argentina with dissimilar ancestry genetic background.
The effect of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 and glucagon‐like peptide‐2 on microcirculation: A systematic review
Authors: Nerup Nikolaj , Ambrus Rikard , Lindhe Joanna , Achiam Michael P. , Jeppesen Palle B. , Svendsen Lars B.
Published: March 2017

GLP‐1 and GLP‐2 are gut‐derived hormones used in the treatment of diabetes type‐2 and short bowel syndrome, respectively. GLP‐1 attenuates insulin resistance and GLP‐2 reduces enterocyte apoptosis and enhances crypt cell proliferation in the small intestine. In addition, both hormones have vasoactive effects and may be useful in situations with impaired microcirculation. The aim of this systematic review was to provide an overview of the potential effects of GLP‐1 and GLP‐2 on microcirculation. A systematic search was performed independently by two authors in the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library, Scopus, and Web of Science. Of 1111 screened papers, 20 studies were included in this review: 16 studies in animals, three in humans, and one in humans and rats. The studies were few and heterogeneous and had a high risk of bias. However, it seems that GLP‐1 regulates the pancreatic, skeletal, and cardiac muscle flow, indicating a role in the glucose homeostasis, while GLP‐2 acts primarily in the regulation of the microcirculation of the mid‐intestine. These findings may be useful in gastrointestinal surgery and in situations with impaired microcirculation of the gut.
Developing a Native Digital Voice: Technology and Inclusivity in Museums
Authors: Pohawpatchoko Calvin , Colwell Chip , Powell Jami , Lassos Jerry
Published: March 2017

The exclusion of Native Americans from their own cultural heritage is a persistent problem in twenty‐first museums. Although in recent decades museums have greatly expanded their programs and institutional frameworks to be more inclusive, experimental projects remain vital to creating new bridges between American museums and Native Americans. In 2010 and 2011, an innovative pilot program titled the “Native American Museum and Technology Workshop” was hosted at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. The two‐week intensive workshop brought 10 Native American high school students to the museum to create a proposal and working model for an interactive web interface. Although the project did not fundamentally alter the museum's approach to Native culture, it provides one model for expanding how Native Americans can be included in museums through a digital voice.
Pricing in a Transportation Station with Strategic Customers
Authors: Manou Athanasia , Canbolat Pelin G. , Karaesmen Fikri
Published: March 2017

We consider a transportation station, where customers arrive according to a Poisson process, observe the delay information and the fee imposed by the administrator and decide whether to use the facility or not. A transportation facility visits the station according to a renewal process and serves all present customers at each visit. We assume that every customer maximizes her individual expected utility and the administrator is a profit maximizer. We model this situation as a two‐stage game among the customers and the administrator, where customer strategies depend on the level of delay information provided by the administrator. We consider three cases distinguished by the level of delay information: observable (the exact waiting time is announced), unobservable (no information is provided) and partially observable (the number of waiting customers is announced). In each case, we explore how the customer reward for service, the unit waiting cost, and the intervisit time distribution parameters affect the customer behavior and the fee imposed by the administrator. We then compare the three cases and show that the customers almost always prefer to know their exact waiting times whereas the administrator prefers to provide either no information or the exact waiting time depending on system parameters.
Researchers’ willingness to engage in knowledge and technology transfer activities: an exploration of the underlying motivations
Authors: Olaya Escobar Erika Sofía , Berbegal‐Mirabent Jasmina , Alegre Inés , Duarte Velasco Oscar Germán
Published: March 2017

Increasingly, universities have become conscious of their important role as centres of knowledge generation and diffusion. Accordingly, they have put in place policies, methods and resources to increase knowledge and technology transfer (KTT) activities. However, succeeding in this endeavour is not that easy. An active involvement of researchers is fundamental. Literature examining researchers’ attitude towards KTT activities is limited, offering a partial view on the subject. This study aims at bringing new light to this issue. First, we identify those factors that influence researchers’ willingness to engage in KTT activities. From a comprehensive literature review, we distinguish between intrinsic motivations, extrinsic motivations and university support and services as critical elements. A scale is developed and validated. Second, the scale is applied to the case of R&D contracts. The sample consists of 249 researchers from one of the biggest Spanish universities. Results suggest that the proposed scale has a good fit, indicating that it can be considered as a good instrument for measuring researchers’ willingness to get involved in KTT activities. Policy implications and directions for future research are provided.
Multiple spatially resolved reflection spectroscopy to monitor cutaneous carotenoids during supplementation of fruit and vegetable extracts in vivo
Authors: Meinke M. C. , Lohan S. B. , Köcher W. , Magnussen B. , Darvin M. E. , Lademann J.
Published: March 2017

Background

A nutrition rich in fruit and vegetables and a healthy lifestyle become more and more important in the industrial countries to counteract oxidative stress and promote health. For many years, it has been possible to control human cutaneous carotenoids noninvasively by resonance Raman spectroscopic systems and by spatially resolved reflectance spectroscopy.

Methods

Ten volunteers took a commercially available fruit and vegetable extract daily for a time period of 5 weeks. A second group served as control group and did not take any supplements (10 volunteers). To monitor the status of the cutaneous carotenoids noninvasively, an optical sensor based on multiple spatially resolved reflectance spectroscopy was applied once a week.

Results

The study could demonstrate that the intake of the supplement significantly increase the cutaneous carotenoid values of the young adults by 50%. The control group without any supplementation showed also significantly increased values, ie, by 10%, which might be due to the fact that their lifestyle was controlled.

Conclusion

The results illustrate that a biofeedback by measuring the skin carotenoids could improve the lifestyle of young adults and that a regular consumption of fruit and vegetables directly or as a drink can increase the concentration of cutaneous carotenoids significantly.
The phylogeny of lance lacewings (Neuroptera: Osmylidae)
Authors: WINTERTON SHAUN L. , ZHAO JING , GARZÓN‐ORDUÑA IVONNE J. , WANG YONGJIE , LIU ZHIQI
Published: March 2017

The first phylogeny of the lacewing family Osmylidae is presented here based on a total evidence analysis of DNA sequences for multiple gene loci and morphology for representatives of almost all extant genera. Our phylogeny shows a basal dichotomy in the family, with subfamilies Protosmylinae, Spilosmylinae and Gumillinae comprising one lineage, and the other lineage including Osmylinae, Porisminae, Eidoporisminae, Kempyninae and Stenosmylinae. The status of Paryphosmylus Krüger and Lysmus Navás as members of Protosmylinae is affirmed as well as the placement of Gumillinae near Protosmylinae and Spilosmylinae. Our results suggest that Porisminae, Eidoporisminae and Stenosmylinae evolved from a common ancestor, and their relationships, including likely paraphyly of Stenosmylinae, requires further assessment. Divergence time analysis revealed that the family originated during the Late Permian before the break‐up of the supercontinent Pangaea and that present generic distributions are not due to Gondwanan biogeographic events. All major subfamily‐level lineages were present by the end of the Triassic, in agreement with the rich Mesozoic‐aged fossil record for the family.