bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated detection and removal of capillary electrophoresis artifacts due to spectral overlap
Authors: Adelman Jonathan D. , Zhao Angie , Eberst D. Spencer , Marciano Michael A.
Published: May 2019

While DNA detection using capillary electrophoresis has enabled improvements in both resolution and throughput, the use of CE – particularly with multiple dye channels – can introduce artifacts that can complicate analyses. Undetected pull‐up artifacts can pose a challenge to investigators, especially in low‐level samples, while partial pull‐up peaks can distort peak height balance within a locus and impact the downstream likelihood ratio. Current methods for addressing pull‐up are typically manually implemented. This study presents an effective alternative: a series of mathematical models, created using symbolic regression achieved through genetic programming. The models estimate the amount of pull‐up expected in a peak from a true allele for a given dye‐dye relationship and instrument type. This leads to the removal of artifactual pull‐up peaks and peak height corrections when pull‐up is present within true alleles. When models are used in conjunction with a dynamic threshold, pull‐up peaks were automatically detected and removed with an accuracy rate of 96.1%. The removal of partial pull‐up from true allele peaks led to a more accurate heterozygote balance for the affected locus. These models have been optimized for use with any analytical threshold and can be implemented by any lab using a 3100 or 3500 instrument series.
CE–MS for anionic metabolic profiling: An overview of methodological developments
Authors: van Mever Marlien , Hankemeier Thomas , Ramautar Rawi
Published: May 2019

The efficient profiling of highly polar and charged metabolites in biological samples remains a huge analytical challenge in metabolomics. Over the last decade, new analytical techniques have been developed for the selective and sensitive analysis of polar ionogenic compounds in various matrices. Still, the analysis of such compounds, notably for acidic ionogenic metabolites, remains a challenging endeavor, even more when the available sample size becomes an issue for the total analytical workflow. In this paper, we give an overview of the possibilities of capillary electrophoresis‐mass spectrometry (CE–MS) for anionic metabolic profiling by focusing on main methodological developments. Attention is paid to the development of improved separation conditions and new interfacing designs in CE–MS for anionic metabolic profiling. A complete overview of all CE–MS‐based methods developed for this purpose is provided in table format (Table 1) which includes information on sample type, separation conditions, mass analyzer and limits of detection (LODs). Selected applications are discussed to show the utility of CE–MS for anionic metabolic profiling, especially for small‐volume biological samples. On the basis of the examination of the reported literature in this specific field, we conclude that there is still room for the design of a highly sensitive and reliable CE–MS method for anionic metabolic profiling. A rigorous validation and the availability of standard operating procedures would be highly favorable in order to make CE–MS an alternative, viable analytical technique for metabolomics.
Will China dominate international higher education enrollment's future?
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: May 2019

I don't know if Secretary Mattis's quote would apply to international higher education, but I believe there are enough statistics to support the premise that part of China's plan to rewrite the existing global order includes higher education domination:
Report finds community college transfer pathways not fully clear to counselors
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: May 2019

A report from the National Association for College Admission Counseling reveals that although high school counselors expressed high degrees of confidence about understanding and advising students for enrollment at community colleges, they were less knowledgeable about transfer arrangements from community colleges to four‐year institutions, or about how to compare nonprofit and for‐profit options for students.
Reduced Faradaic Contributions and Fast Charging of Nanoporous Carbon Electrodes in a Concentrated Sodium Nitrate Aqueous Electrolyte for Supercapacitors
Authors: Abbas Qamar , Gollas Bernhard , Presser Volker
Published: May 2019

The Faradaic processes related to electrochemical water reduction at the nanoporous carbon electrode under negative polarization are reduced when the concentration of aqueous sodium nitrate (NaNO3) is increased or the temperature is decreased. This effect enhances the relative contribution of ion electrosorption to the total charge storage process. Hydrogen chemisorption is reduced in aqueous 8.0 m NaNO3 due to the low degree of hydration of the Na+ cation; consequently, less free water is available for redox contributions, driving the system to exhibit electrical double‐layer capacitive characteristics. Hydrogen adsorption/desorption is facilitated in 1.0 m NaNO3 due to the high molar ratio. The excess of water shifts the local pH in carbon nanopores to neutral values, giving rise to a high overpotential for dihydrogen evolution in the latter. The dilution effect on local pH shift in 1.0 m NaNO3 can be reduced by decreasing the temperature. A symmetric activated carbon cell assembled with 8.0 m NaNO3 exhibits a high capacitance and coulombic efficiency, a larger contribution of ion electrosorption to the overall charge storage process, and a stable capacitance performance at 1.6 V.
Multiresidue Methods for the Determination of Organic Micropollutants and Their Metabolites in Fish Matrices
Authors: Molbert Noëlie , Alliot Fabrice , Santos Raphaël , Chevreuil Marc , Mouchel Jean-Marie , Goutte Aurélie
Published: May 2019

Two analytical methods were developed for the determination of 48 organic compounds and 20 of their main by-products in fish matrices. The targeted compounds belong to various chemical classes of metabolizable (phthalates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, insecticides [pyrethroids and N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide]) and legacy (organochlorine pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenyl ethers) pollutants. Analyses were performed by gas and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) and dynamic MRM, respectively. Method performances were satisfactory, with results meeting the validation criteria because they achieved good linearity responses, recovery, precision, and accuracy for most of the 68 investigated compounds. The methods were then applied on 3 feral chub (Squalius cephalus) collected from the Marne hydrographic network (France). Twenty-six parent compounds and 5 metabolites were systematically detected in fish matrices, with substantial concentration variability within and among individuals. Phthalates and pyrethroids accounted for most of the pollutant load. Metabolite concentrations in liver samples exceeded those of parent molecules in fish muscle. The present study presents 2 reliable methods for the determination of a wide range of contaminants and underlines the importance of metabolite analysis for a more comprehensive understanding of pollutant bioaccumulation and fate in aquatic organisms. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:1866–1878. © 2019 SETAC.

Abstract

Two analytical procedures were developed for the determination of organic pollutants and their by-products in fish matrices by GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS analyses, respectively.
Massively parallel sequencing of tenosynovial giant cell tumors reveals novel CSF1 fusion transcripts and novel somatic CBL mutations
Authors: Tsuda Yusuke , Hirata Makoto , Katayama Kotoe , Motoi Toru , Matsubara Daisuke , Oda Yoshinao , Fujita Masashi , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Kawano Hirotaka , Nishida Yoshihiro , Sakai Tomohisa , Okuma Tomotake , Goto Takahiro , Ogura Koichi , Kawai Akira , Ae Keisuke , Anazawa Ukei , Suehara Yoshiyuki , Iwata Shintaro , Miyano Satoru , Imoto Seiya , Shibata Tatsuhiro , Nakagawa Hidewaki , Yamaguchi Rui , Tanaka Sakae , Matsuda Koichi
Published: May 2019

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TSGCT) is a rare neoplasm. Although surgical resection is the widely accepted primary treatment for TSGCT, recurrences are frequent, and patients’ joint function may be severely compromised. Previous studies reported that CSF1‐COL6A3 fusion genes were identified in approximately 30% of TSGCTs. The aim of our study was to comprehensively clarify the genomic abnormalities in TSGCTs. We performed whole exome sequencing in combination with target sequence validation on 34 TSGCT samples. RNA sequencing was also performed on 18 samples. RNA sequencing revealed fusion transcripts involving CSF1, including novel CSF1‐VCAM1, CSF1‐FN1 and CSF1‐CDH1 fusions, in 13/18 (72%) cases. These fusion genes were validated by chromogenic in situ hybridization. All CSF1 fusions resulted in the deletion of CSF1 exon 9, which was previously shown to be an important negative regulator of CSF1 expression. We also found that 12 (35%) of the 34 TSGCT samples harbored CBL missense mutations. All mutations were detected in exons 8 or 9, which encode the linker and RING finger domain. Among these mutations, C404Y, L380P and R420Q were recurrent. CBL‐mutated cases showed higher JAK2 expression than wild‐type CBL cases (p = 0.013). CSF1 fusion genes and CBL mutations were not mutually exclusive, and both alterations were detected in six of the 18 (33%) tumors. The frequent deletion of CSF1 exon 9 in the fusion transcripts suggested the importance of this event in the etiology of TSGCT. Our results may contribute to the development of new targeted therapies using JAK2 inhibitors for CBL‐mutated TSGCT.
Hyperglycemic condition influence on mineral trioxide aggregate biocompatibility and biomineralization
Authors: de Azevedo Queiroz Índia O. , Gonçalves Luanna O. , Takamiya Aline S. , Rezende Gabriely C. , Machado Thiago , Siveiri‐Araujo Gustavo , Ervolino Edilson , Oliveira Sandra H. P. , Gomes‐Filho João E.
Published: May 2019

This study aimed to investigate in vitro and in vivo the influence of hyperglycemic condition on biocompatibility and biomineralization of gray mineral trioxide aggregate (GMTA) and white mineral trioxide aggregate (WMTA). For the in vitro study, fibroblast‐like cells L929 were cultured under high or normal glucose concentration to investigate the effects of both MTA's on cell proliferation and inflammatory cytokines production IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α. For the in vivo study, polyethylene tubes containing MTA materials and empty tubes were implanted into dorsal connective tissues of Wistar rats previously assigned normal and hyperglycemic. After 7 and 30 days, the tubes with surrounding tissues were removed and subjected to histological, fluorescence and immunohistochemical analyzes of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α. In vitro study showed that, under high glucose condition, GMTA reduced cell proliferation and IL‐6 production compared with WMTA. Moreover, in vivo study revealed that hyperglycemic condition did not modify the inflammatory response and cytokines production in the tissue close to both materials. Independently of hyperglycemic status, mineralized areas were observed with both materials, but the fluorescence intensity of WMTA was diminished on 14 days in hyperglycemic animals. It is possible to conclude that GMTA was able to inhibit the proliferation rate and IL‐6 production under high glucose concentration in vitro. Furthermore, cytokines production and inflammatory response were not upregulated in hyperglycemic animals; however, a decrease in the calcium deposition was observed in presence of WMTA, suggesting a delay in the mineralization process.
Bom‐miR‐2805 upregulates the expression of Bombyx mori fibroin light chain gene in vivo
Authors: Chen Yanhua , Jiang Tao , Tan Zhicheng , Xue Peng , Xu Jin , Tang Shunming , Yi Yongzhu , Shen Xingjia
Published: May 2019

MicroRNAs (miRs) are inner regulatory RNAs mainly by regulating expression of genes at the posttranscriptional level. To investigate the regulatory function of Bombyx mori (B. mori) fibroin protein genes, the mRNA 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR) of fibroin light chain gene (BmFib‐L) was used as the target and one miRNA, miR‐2805 was predicted by using the Software. miR‐2805 expression plasmid pcDNA3.0[ie1‐egfp‐pre‐miR‐2805‐SV40] and BmFib‐L 3′‐UTR plasmid pGL3.0[A3‐luc‐Fib‐L‐3′‐UTR‐SV40] were constructed, respectively. The mentioned plasmids were cotransfected in BmN cells, and the regulatory function of miR‐2805 on BmFib‐L was detected by assay of dual luciferase activities, as well as synthesized mimic and inhibitor of miR‐2805. The results revealed that miR‐2805 significantly downregulated the expression of BmFib‐L in BmN cells. To validate the function of miR‐2805 in vivo, cultured silk glands or larvae were injected with solution containing pcDNA3.0[ie1‐egfp‐SV40], pcDNA3.0[ie1‐egfp‐pre‐miR‐2805‐SV40], mimic, inhibitor respectively. BmFib‐L expression was analyzed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction using total RNAs extracted from silk glands. The results showed that miR‐2805 significantly upregulated the expression of BmFib‐L in both cultured tissues and individuals. To find out how miR‐2805 differentially regulates BmFib‐L expression in cells and tissues or individuals, we analyzed the expression level of transcription factors (TFs) involved in expression of silk protein genes. The results showed that miR‐2805 upregulated the expression of TFs BmAwh and Bmdimm. These results suggest that miR‐2805 may up‐regulate the expression of BmFib‐L interaction with BmAwh and/or Bmdimm in vivo. These findings are beneficial to clarify the molecular mechanism of miRNAs in regulating B. mori silk protein biosynthesis.
MiR‐202 inhibits cell proliferation, invasion, and migration in breast cancer by targeting ROCK1 gene
Authors: Xu Fangfang , Li Hui , Hu Chengjiu
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The aim of this study was to research the effect of miR‐202 on breast cancer cells proliferation, invasion, and migration.

Methods

TCGA analysis was used to research miR‐202 expression and overall survival in patients with breast cancer. Transfection with miR‐202 mimics or cotransfection with miR‐202 mimics and ROCK1 expression vector was performed on breast cancer cells. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the miR‐202 expression of breast cancer tissues and cells. Western blot was conducted to research the expression of ROCK1, E‐cadherin, Twist, N‐cadherin, and MMP2. Dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to detect the targeted relationship between ROCK1 and miR‐202. MTT and transwell assay were used to detect breast cancer cells proliferation, invasion, and migration.

Results

Downregulation of miR‐202 was positively correlated with poor prognosis of patients with breast cancer. miR‐202 in breast cancer tissues and breast cancer cells was significantly downregulated. Upregulation of miR‐202 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of breast cancer cells. miR‐202 promoted E‐cadherin expression and inhibited the expression of N‐cadherin, Twist, and MMP2. ROCK1 was the target gene of miR‐202. miR‐202 regulated proliferation, migration, invasion, and expression of related proteins in breast cancer cells by targeting ROCK1 expression.

Conclusions

miR‐202 inhibited breast cancer cells proliferation, invasion, and migration by targeting the ROCK1 gene
The role of resveratrol in bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells from patients with osteoporosis
Authors: Li Jing , Xin Zhaoxu , Cai Mingjun
Published: May 2019

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of resveratrol on BMSCs from patients with osteoporosis. The cell viability and proliferation of BMSCs after treatment with different concentrations of resveratrol was respectively observed by MTT assay and EdU staining. The apoptosis was assessed using by TUNEL staining and the pluripotency was analyzed by quantitative reverse transcription‐PCR (qRT‐PCR). The osteogenic differentiation and adipogenic differentiation were determined by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, alizarin red S (ARS) staining, oil red O (ORO) staining and qRT‐PCR analysis. MTT assay showed that Res at 40, 80, 100 μM markedly improved the cell proliferation of BMSCs from patients with osteoporosis. EdU staining indicated that Res treatment significantly accelerated the proliferation of BMSCs. In addition, the results of TUNEL staining revealed that Res at 40, 80, 100 μM inhibited the osteoporosis‐related apoptosis of BMSCs. qRT‐PCR analysis explored that Res treatment played a positive role in the pluripotency in BMSCs. ALP, ARS staining and qRT‐PCR demonstrated that Res promoted the differentiation of BMSCs into osteoblasts, especially at 80 μM. ORO staining and qRT‐PCR analysis proved that treatment of Res inhibited the adipogenesis of BMSCs isolated from patients with osteoporosis. Our findings suggested that Res can play a vital role in the cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, pluripotency, osteogenesis and adipogenesis of BMSCs. And Res might be an efficient therapeutic approach for treating patients with osteoporosis.
Hypoxia‐responsive miRNA‐21‐5p inhibits Runx2 suppression by targeting SMAD7 in MC3T3‐E1 cells
Authors: Li Lujun , Jiang Dianming
Published: May 2019

Sustained hypoxia inhibits osteogenesis and osteoblast differentiation by downregulating the expression of runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to regulate osteogenesis and osteoblast differentiation. In the present study, we profiled miRNAs, with microRNA array and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) methods, in mouse osteoblast (MC3T3‐E1) cells under hypoxia. Then, we investigated regulation by miRNA‐21‐5p on the expression of Runx2 and other osteoblast differentiation‐associated markers via gain‐of‐function and loss‐of‐function strategies. We found that expression of miRNA‐21‐5p, miRNA‐210‐5p, and other eight miRNAs was upregulated significantly in hypoxia‐treated MC3T3‐E1 cells. miRNA‐21‐5p overexpression downregulated the expression of the mRNA and protein of suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic (SMAD7) markedly, the 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR) of which was highly homologous with the miRNA‐21‐5p sequence. miRNA‐21‐5p overexpression upregulated the protein expression of Runx2 in hypoxia‐treated MC3T3‐E1 cells, although mRNA expression of Runx2 and other osteoblast differentiation‐associated molecules (eg, osteocalcin, procollagen type 1 amino‐terminal propeptide, P1NP) were not regulated by it; such upregulation was SMAD7‐dependent. In conclusion, hypoxia‐responsive miRNA‐21‐5p promoted Runx2 expression (at least in part) by targeting the 3′‐UTR and downregulating SMAD7 expression. Our study suggests a protective role of miRNA‐21‐5p in promoting osteoblast differentiation under hypoxia.
The role of P2Y6 receptors in the maintenance of neuropathic pain and its improvement of oxidative stress in rats
Authors: Wang Zhen , Zhao WenSheng , Shen XinYi , Wan HaiFang , Yu Jian Ming
Published: May 2019

Aim

To explore the role of P2Y6 receptors in the maintenance of neuropathic pain and progression of oxidative stress, we investigated the efficacy of the selective P2Y6 receptors antagonist MRS2578 on the antiallodynic effects and improvement of pathological neuropathic pain‐induced oxidative stress, thereby finding a potential therapeutic target in neurological disease.

Materials and Methods

The mechanical allodynia in the ipsilateral spinal dorsal horn (SDH) of rats was observed in rats after chronic constriction injury (CCI). Meanwhile, the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of biological parameters, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) in the SDH of rats were measured by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). In addition, the mRNA expression and protein levels of P2Y6 were measured by RT‐PCR and Western blot assay, respectively. Next, the rats subjected to CCI were intrathecally infused with MRS2578 to block the expression of P2Y6 receptors. The positive expression of P2Y6 receptors was examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results

In the present study, the results revealed that the P2Y6 expression in the ipsilateral SDH of CCI rats was significantly upregulated. In addition, inhibition of the P2Y6 receptor in SDH increased CCI‐induced tactile allodynia. Furthermore, the levels of SOD, GSH, and HO‐1 which were correlated with oxidative stress produced by CCI were also decreased.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that inhibition of the P2Y6 receptor can generate antiallodynic effects and improved the pathological neuropathic pain‐induced oxidative stress. Thus, this study provides a potential approach for the therapy of neurological disease.
Endothelins and their receptors in embryo implantation
Authors: Mihanfar Aynaz , Sadigh Aydin Raei , Fattahi Amir , Latifi Zeinab , Hasanzadeh‐Moghadam Mahsa , Samadi Mahrokh , Farzadi Laya , Hamdi Kobra , Ghasemzadeh Aliyeh , Nejabati Hamid Reza , Nouri Mohammad
Published: May 2019

As a critical stage of pregnancy, the implantation of blastocysts into the endometrium is a progressive, excessively regulated local tissue remodeling step involving a complex sequence of genetic and cellular interplay executed within an optimal time frame. For better understanding the causes of infertility and, more importantly, for developing powerful strategies for successful implantations and combating infertility, an increasing number of recent studies have been focused on the identification and study of newly described substances in the reproductive tree. The endothelins (ET), a 21‐aminoacidic family of genes, have been reported to be responsible for the contraction of vascular and nonvascular smooth muscles, including the smooth muscles of the uterus. Therefore, this review aims to comprehensively discuss the physiological role of endothelins and signaling through their receptors, as well as their probable involvement in the implantation process.
Identification and characterization of a new long noncoding RNA iab‐1 in the Hox cluster of silkworm, Bombyx mori identification of iab‐1
Authors: Wang Honglei , Hu Hai , Xiang Zhonghuai , Lu Cheng , Dai Fangyin , Tong Xiaoling
Published: May 2019

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) areinvolvedin a variety of biological processes. In silkworm, numerous lncRNAs have been predicted through deep transcriptome sequencing, but no functional role has been experimentally validated yet. Here, we characterized a new lncRNA iab‐1 that was mainly encoded by the intergenic region between Bmabd‐A and Bmabd‐B in the Homeobox (Hox) cluster of the silkworm, Bombyx mori. More than seven alternative splicing isoforms of lncRNA iab‐1 were cloned, which were subgrouped into types 1 and 2 based on the location of the 3′‐ends. The iab‐1 was expressed at a low level, but the expression of iab‐1 peaked at several specific development stages, including 3 to 4 days during the embryonic stage, stages before fourth molting, and the sixth hour after the fourth molting, and early stages during metamorphosis. It was highly expressed in the nervus and epidermis, especially the epidermis of the posterior abdomen at the fourth instar premolting stage. The relationship between iab‐1 and nearby Hox genes was analyzed at different developmental stages. Iab‐1 expression was highly associated with Bmabd‐A as well as Bmabd‐B in the embryonic and larval stages, while this association was decreased at the metamorphic stage; iab‐1 expression was highly associated with BmUbx only in the embryonic stage. Downregulation of iab‐1 expression by small interfering RNA led to the death of most of the treated individuals at the larval stage, suggesting that iab‐1 transcript expression might be involved in certain relevant physiological processes. The expression of Bmabd‐A and Bmabd‐B did not change in iab‐1 downregulated individuals, indicating that the relevance between the two genes and iab‐1 was not induced by iab‐1 transcript. Collectively, the results showed that the newly identified iab‐1 may be involved in some physiological processes, and the interaction between iab‐1 and Hox genes was also preliminarily analyzed.
Antitumor activity of SR splicing‐factor 5 knockdown by downregulating pyruvate kinase M2 in non–small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Yan Jiliang , Zhang Dongya , Han Yanjie , Wang Zhongjie , Ma Chunyan
Published: May 2019

SR splicing‐factors (SRSFs) play a vital role in carcinogenesis. SRSF5 was demonstrated to be upregulated in lung cancer and identified as a novel prognostic indicator for small‐cell lung cancer. However, the role of SRSF5 in the pathogenesis of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and the molecular mechanism involved are still undefined. The expression of SRSF5 in NSCLC cells was detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. The proliferation of cells was evaluated by cell counting kit‐8 and BrdU assays. Apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry and Western blot analysis of apoptosis‐associated proteins including B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2), Bax, and cytochrome C (Cyt C). Glycolysis was detected by determining glucose consumption, lactate production, and pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) expression. We found that SRSF5 messenger RNA and protein levels were elevated in NSCLC cells. SRSF5 knockdown inhibited the proliferation and Ki67 expression in NSCLC cells. SRSF5 silencing increased the apoptotic rate, upregulated Bax and Cyt C, and decreased Bcl‐2 level in NSCLC cells. Moreover, Knockdown of SRSF5 repressed glycolysis in NSCLC cells via reducing PKM2 expression. Enhanced glycolysis by PKM2 overexpression attenuated the effects of SRSF5 silencing on NSCLC cell proliferation and apoptosis. Overall, knockdown of SRSF5 inhibited proliferative ability and induced apoptosis by suppressing PKM2 expression in NSCLC cells.
Study of intramolecular interactions in aspirin
Authors: Cotes Sandra , Cotuá Jose
Published: May 2019

A detailed quantum chemical study of the solvent effects in the intramolecular hydrogen bonding, conformational stability, and reactivity of aspirin has been performed using density functional theory (DFT) at the B3LYP/6‐31G(d) theory level. Seven conformational isomers, three of them presenting intramolecular hydrogen bonds, have been located. Thermochemical functions have been computed, and relative energies and free enthalpies have been determined in gas and aqueous phases. Several molecular properties have been calculated to predict the ability of aspirin to acylate cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. A six‐membered‐ring hydrogen‐bonded conformer was found to be the most reactive species. The solvation in aqueous phase increases the reactivity and strengthens intramolecular hydrogen bonding.
Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells modified by angiogenin‐1 promotes tissue repair in mice with oxygen‐induced retinopathy of prematurity by promoting retinal stem cell proliferation and differentiation
Authors: Ma Qian‐Qian , Liu Fang‐Yu , Shi Meng , Sun Chang‐Hua , Tan Zhu , Chang Xiao‐Dan , Li Qiu‐Ping , Feng Zhi‐Chun
Published: May 2019

Retinopathy has become one of the major factors that lead to blindness worldwide. Although many clinical therapies are concerned about such disease, most of them focus on symptoms alleviation. In this study, we aim to investigate whether coculture retinal stem cells (RSCs) with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells transfected with angiogenin‐1 (Ang‐1‐BMSCs) affects the damaged retinal tissue of oxygen‐induced retinopathy of prematurity (OIR‐ROP) mice. After OIR‐ROP mouse model establishment, Ang‐1‐BMSCs, RSCs, and OIR‐ROP retinal tissues were cocultured in a a transwell chamber. RSCs proliferation and the expression of Ang‐1, insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) in the supernatant of RSCs, as well as β‐tubulin and protein kinase C (PKC) expression were evaluated. Finally, the repair of OIR‐ROP mice retinal tissues was observed by injecting Ang‐1‐BMSCs + RSCs. In the OIR‐ROP mouse model, RSCs cocultured with OIR‐ROP retinal tissues could be induced to differentiate into cells expressing β‐tubulin and PKC and promote the expression of Ang‐1 and IGF‐1. coculture of Ang‐1‐BMSCs further enhanced the proliferation and differentiation of RSCs by promoting the expression of Ang‐1 and IGF‐1. Coculture of RSCs + Ang‐1‐BMSCs induced differentiation of Ang‐1‐BMSCs through interaction among intercellular factors and restored the damaged retinal tissue of OIR‐ROP mice. Collectively, our study provided evidence that coculture of Ang‐1‐BMSCs and RSCs could promote the proliferation and differentiation of RSCs and improve the treatment for the damaged retina tissue of OIR‐ROP mice.
From clinic to mechanism: Proteomics‐based assessment of angiogenesis in adrenal pheochromocytoma
Authors: Sun Fukang , Zhuo Ran , Ma Wenming , Yang Da , Su Tingwei , Ye Lei , Xu Danfeng , Wang Weiqing
Published: May 2019

Adrenal pheochromocytoma (PCC) is a very rare tumor that stems from chromaffin cells, which can develop into malignant tumor. During the operation, abundant blood vessels were often observed in PCC than other adrenal tumors, which increases the difficulty and risk of the surgery. Therefore, it is important to investigate the mechanism of PCC angiogenesis. Twelve surgical specimens of PCC from Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University were grouped into high and low microvessel density (MVD) group. They were also divided into rich blood supply and nonenriched blood supply group, according to computed tomography (CT) manifestation. Comparative proteomic analysis based on liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) and bioinformatics analysis revealed that 206 proteins differentially regulated in the high MVD group compared with low MVD group (p < 0.05). Besides, 61 proteins were discovered to be significantly changed when the 12 samples were grouped according to CT manifestation. By intersecting the differentially changed protein from MVD and CT grouping, 25 proteins were filtered out, with pathological function. COX4I2 was verified to be increased gradually with angiogenesis with increasing severity, and PLAT was shown to be decreased with angiogenesis in PCC, by quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. The quantitative proteomics result indicated that the tumor angiogenesis in PCC is associated with hypoxia. COX4I2 and PLAT were highly correlated with blood supply in PCC which contribute to angiogenesis in PCC, which could be used as biomarkers to better indicate tumor angiogenesis, or targets to regress tumor angiogenesis as treatment.
SP1‐mediated overexpression of lncRNA LINC01234 as a ceRNA facilitates non‐small‐cell lung cancer progression via regulating OTUB1
Authors: Xie Jing‐jing , Guo Qun‐yi , Jin Jian‐ying , Jin Dan
Published: May 2019

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been confirmed to be strongly associated with the progression of various types of cancer. LncRNA LINC01234 (LINC01234) is a newly identified tumor‐related lncRNA whose upregulation has been confirmed in some tumors. However, its potential expressions and possible functions in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have not been explored. In this study, we first found that LINC01234 expressions were distinctly upregulated in both NSCLC samples and cell lines using RT‐PCR. Our group also showed that LINC01234 upregulations were modulated by nuclear transcription factor SP1. The results form clinical investigations indicated that high LINC01234 expressions were associated with positively lymph node metastasis and advanced tumor‐metastasis‐node (TMN) stage. Kaplan‐Meier assays indicated that patients with NSCLC having high LINC01234 expressions tend to have unfavorable clinical prognosis. Using multivariate assays, it was confirmed that LINC01234 was an independent prognostic factor for patients with NSCLC. In vitro assays showed that inhibition of LINC01234 suppressed NSCLC cell proliferation, cell colony formation and metastasis, and greatly promoted apoptosis. Mechanistic investigations revealed LINC01234 promotes the progression of NSCLC cells by the modulation of miR‐140 to positively regulate OTUB1 expression. Taken together our findings, they provided an exhaustive assay of LINC01234 in NSCLC and imperative clues for insights into the potential effects of lncRNAs‐miRNAs regulatory network in NSCLC.
How Regulatory Orientation and Feelings of Gratitude Shape Online Review Helpfulness
Authors: Mafael Alexander
Published: May 2019

Online review helpfulness ratings are an important indicator of the impact of online reviews. Often times, helpfulness is explained in terms of observable qualities of online reviews that predict helpfulness ratings. This research proposes that focusing on the psychological processes that underlie helpfulness voting informs a better understanding of what shapes review helpfulness ratings. Specifically, because goal orientation influences information processing, consumers’ regulatory orientation interacts with review valence to determine review helpfulness. When review valence and regulatory orientation match, consumers are more likely to express helpfulness through voting. The findings show that this effect occurs at least in part because matching review valence and regulatory orientation instills feelings of gratitude towards the reviewer. As a consequence, consumers are more likely to reward the reviewer with a helpfulness vote to express their feeling of gratitude through actions. However, when reviewers actively state expectations of reciprocal behavior by readers, gratitude is reduced and so is the likelihood that a review receives a helpfulness vote. Evidence from five studies using review data and online experiments show support for these effects.
Measuring biomaterials mechanics with atomic force microscopy. 1. Influence of the loading rate and applied force (pyramidal tips)
Authors: Weber Andreas , Iturri Jagoba , Benitez Rafael , Toca‐Herrera José L.
Published: May 2019

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is today an established tool in imaging and determination of mechanical properties of biomaterials. Due to their complex organization, those materials show intricate properties such as viscoelasticity. Therefore, one has to consider that the loading rate at which the sample is probed will lead to different mechanical response (properties). In this work, we studied the dependence of the mechanical properties of endothelial cells on the loading rate using AFM in force spectroscopy mode. We employed a sharp, four‐sided pyramidal indenter and loading rates ranging from 0.5 to 20 μm/s. In addition, by variation of the load (applied forces from 100 to 10,000 pN), the dependence of the cell properties on indentation depth could be determined. We then showed that the mechanical response of endothelial cells depends nonlinearly on the loading rate and follows a weak power‐law. In addition, regions of different viscous response at varying indentation depth could be determined. Based on the results we obtained, a general route map for AFM users for design of cell mechanics experiments was described.
Quantitative in vivo imaging of neuronal glucose concentrations with a genetically encoded fluorescence lifetime sensor
Authors: Díaz‐García Carlos Manlio , Lahmann Carolina , Martínez‐François Juan Ramón , Li Binsen , Koveal Dorothy , Nathwani Nidhi , Rahman Mahia , Keller Jacob P. , Marvin Jonathan S. , Looger Loren L. , Yellen Gary
Published: May 2019

Glucose is an essential source of energy for the brain. Recently, the development of genetically encoded fluorescent biosensors has allowed real time visualization of glucose dynamics from individual neurons and astrocytes. A major difficulty for this approach, even for ratiometric sensors, is the lack of a practical method to convert such measurements into actual concentrations in ex vivo brain tissue or in vivo. Fluorescence lifetime imaging provides a strategy to overcome this. In a previous study, we reported the lifetime glucose sensor iGlucoSnFR‐TS (then called SweetieTS) for monitoring changes in neuronal glucose levels in response to stimulation. This genetically encoded sensor was generated by combining the Thermus thermophilus glucose‐binding protein with a circularly permuted variant of the monomeric fluorescent protein T‐Sapphire. Here, we provide more details on iGlucoSnFR‐TS design and characterization, as well as pH and temperature sensitivities. For accurate estimation of glucose concentrations, the sensor must be calibrated at the same temperature as the experiments. We find that when the extracellular glucose concentration is in the range 2–10 mM, the intracellular glucose concentration in hippocampal neurons from acute brain slices is ~20% of the nominal external glucose concentration (~0.4–2 mM). We also measured the cytosolic neuronal glucose concentration in vivo, finding a range of ~0.7–2.5 mM in cortical neurons from awake mice.
The Investigations of Construction and in vitro Release of Curcumin Lyotropic Liquid Crystals: Phase Diagrams, Small Angle X‐ray Scattering, Rheological Technology, and Release Kinetics
Authors: Liu Jinpeng , Wang Zhongni
Published: May 2019

In this study, hexagonal and cubic lyotropic liquid crystals (LLC) were constructed in Brij 97‐Tween 40 (MS82, MS64 and MS46)/OLA/H2O systems to encapsulate curcumin. MS82, MS64, and MS46 indicated that the mass ratio of Brij 97/Tween 40 was 8/2, 6/4, and 4/6. The microstructure of curcumin LLC was studied using small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS). Phase diagrams showed that the increase of MS reduced the phase transition temperature (TC). Particularly, the TC of sample C1Cur [Brij 97‐Tween 40 (MS46)/OLA/H2O = 50.0/2.8/47.2] and C2Cur [Brij 97‐Tween 40 (MS46)/OLA/H2O = 50.0/25.0/25.0] was 37.6 and 35.4 °C, respectively, close to the temperature of the human body. Thus, the shear rheology and SAXS were used to study the structural changes of samples C1Cur and C2Cur with temperature. The moduli values of samples C1Cur and C2Cur decreased with the increase of temperature, showing various structural strengths. in vitro release experiment was used to study the drug release kinetics. The release of curcumin from LLC conformed to the concentration diffusion model. Due to a similar aS, the release of curcumin from samples A1Cur, B1Cur, and C1Cur (Brij 97‐Tween 40/OLA/H2O = 50.0/2.8/47.2 and the MS is MS82, MS64, and MS46) showed a similar release behavior under different MS. The release behavior of curcumin was related to the structure of samples C1Cur and C2Cur at different temperatures. Curcumin exhibited the fastest release rate when the samples behaved as the micellar phase.
Dietary taurine supplementation decreases fat synthesis by suppressing the liver X receptor α pathway and alleviates lipid accumulation in the liver of chronic heat‐stressed broilers
Authors: Lu Zhuang , He Xiaofang , Ma Bingbing , Zhang Lin , Li Jiaolong , Jiang Yun , Zhou Guanghong , Gao Feng
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Chronic heat stress can enhance fat synthesis and result in lipid accumulation in the liver of broilers. To investigate the effects and molecular mechanisms of dietary taurine supplementation on fat synthesis and lipid accumulation in the liver of chronic heat‐stressed broilers, 144 28 day‐old chickens (Arbor Acres) were randomly distributed to normal control (NC, 22 °C, basal diet), heat stress (HS, consistent 32 °C, basal diet), or heat stress plus taurine (HS + T, consistent 32 °C, basal diet +5.00 g kg−1 taurine) groups for a 14‐day feeding trial.

RESULTS

Compared with those of the HS group, dietary taurine supplementation significantly decreased the level of very‐low‐density lipoprotein and the activity of aspartate aminotransferase in plasma and the relative weight of liver in the HS + T group. In addition, dietary taurine supplementation also significantly decreased the levels of triglyceride, acyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC) and fatty acid synthase (FAS), and suppressed the mRNA expression levels of liver X receptor α (LXRα), sterol response element‐binding protein 1c, ACC and FAS in the liver of chronic heat‐stressed broilers. Meanwhile, dietary taurine supplementation effectively alleviated lipid accumulation in the liver of broilers exposed to chronic heat stress.

CONCLUSION

Chronic heat stress significantly increased fat synthesis and resulted in excess lipid deposition in the liver of broilers. Dietary taurine supplementation can effectively decrease fat synthesis by suppressing the LXRα pathway and alleviate lipid accumulation in the liver of chronic heat‐stressed broilers. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation of restricted access media molecularly imprinted polymers for efficient separation and enrichment ofloxacin in bovine serum samples
Authors: Li Jianmin , Zhao Lijuan , Wei Chanling , Sun Zhian , Zhao Shanwen , Cai Tianpei , Gong Bolin
Published: May 2019

We prepared ofloxacin restricted access media molecularly imprinted polymers using surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization on the surface of brominated silica gel using ofloxacin as a template molecule, methacrylic acid as a functional monomer, and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as a crosslinking agent. We then characterized and studied the surface morphology and adsorption properties of the polymer. Experimental results show that saturation is reached within 25 min, and that the saturated adsorption capacity was 80.67 mg/g and the imprinting factor was 1.94. Our findings also showed that the polymer surface had good hydrophilicity and an excellent protein exclusion rate, which was 98.49%. The restricted access media molecularly imprinted polymers were then successfully applied to the enrichment and separation of ofloxacin in bovine serum. When combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography, and the average recovery of ofloxacin was 95.6%, and the relative standard deviation was in the range of 2.47–3.38%. In a word, the restricted access media molecularly imprinted polymers is a method that involves a simple preparation procedure that results in excellent performance, which is a great improvement in the speed of detection of antibiotics. These qualities are what bestow upon this method its great potential for broad application.
Rapid determination of lignosulfonate depolymerization products by advanced polymer chromatography
Authors: Qian Chen , Fang Hongxia , Cui Peng , Cai Fang , Gao Xinyu , He Hualong , Hu Xiaopo
Published: May 2019

Depolymerized lignin products are very complex mixtures. Based on a depolymerization solution of commercially available sodium lignosulfonate under mild conditions, a fast and efficient method for the separation and direct characterization of the degree and efficiency of the acid‐catalyzed depolymerization of lignin was developed in this study. Using an ultraviolet detector, the depolymerized lignosulfonate products were well separated and characterized according to the relative molar mass distribution on an advanced polymer chromatographic system with three ethylene‐bridged hybrid columns having small pore sizes (45 Å) in series and tetrahydrofuran as the mobile phase. The developed advanced polymer chromatography method enabled the detection of low‐molecular‐weight lignin degradation products (Mn = 260–1100 Da) with high peak resolutions in less than 7.2 min. Furthermore, preliminary advanced polymer chromatography studies to determine the influence of reaction temperature on the depolymerized products indicated that the depolymerized aromatics fell in several molecular weight ranges with an extremely low dispersity. This new approach can be used for the rapid analysis of lignin depolymerization products.
Ultrasound Features of Trigger Finger: Review of the Literature
Authors: Bianchi Stefano , Gitto Salvatore , Draghi Ferdinando
Published: May 2019

Trigger finger is a common pathologic condition of the digital pulleys and flexor tendons in the hand. The key clinical finding is a transient blockage of the digit when it is flexed with subsequent painful snapping when it is extended. Imaging is a helpful guide for establishing the severity of the disease, identifying the underlying cause, and deciding the appropriate management. This narrative review aims to recall the anatomic and pathologic bases and describe the ultrasound features of trigger finger, also including common ultrasound findings and complications after therapy. Ultrasound enables an accurate static and dynamic evaluation of trigger finger as well as a comparison with the adjacent normal digits and thus should be considered the radiologic modality of first choice for its diagnosis.
H2O time histories in the H2‐NO2 system for validation of NOx hydrocarbon kinetics mechanisms
Authors: Mulvihill Clayton R. , Mathieu Olivier , Petersen Eric L.
Published: May 2019

The development and refinement of NOx chemical kinetic mechanisms have been instrumental in understanding and reducing NOx formation. However, relatively little work has been performed with NOx species as the oxidizer, and such experiments can provide unique insights into NOx kinetics. Furthermore, speciation data can often provide useful information that complements global measurements such as ignition delay times in facilitating mechanism refinement. To provide such speciation data in the H2‐NO2 system, H2O measurements were performed using a fixed‐wavelength, direct absorption laser diagnostic near 1.39 µm behind reflected shock waves in fuel‐lean, near‐stoichiometric, and fuel‐rich mixtures of H2 and NO2 highly diluted in argon. Experiments were performed between 917 and 1782 K near atmospheric pressure. The H2O profiles obtained herein are markedly different from those using O2 as the oxidizer obtained in a previous study. The GRI 3.0 mechanism was found to greatly underestimate the H2O formation, whereas two modern mechanisms were found to predict the H2O formation quite accurately except at colder temperatures for fuel‐rich conditions. Explanations for the differences between these mechanisms are given and discussed, with the conclusion that older mechanisms such as GRI 3.0 should not be used to model hydrocarbon/NOx combustion chemistry as they are lacking several key reactions and species, namely NO3 and HONO. The discrepancy between models and data at lower temperatures could not be reconciled even when modifying two of the most‐sensitive reaction rates. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study presents the first shock‐tube speciation study in the H2‐NO2 system.
Syntopy of vagus nerve in the carotid sheath: A dissectional study of 50 cadavers
Authors: Hojaij Flavio , Rebelo Gabriela , Akamatsu Flavia , Andrade Mauro , Camargo Cristina , Cernea Claudio , Jacomo Alfredo
Published: May 2019

Background

Vagus nerve anatomical position inside the carotid sheath is not clear in the literature. Nevertheless, monitoring laryngeal nerves during thyroid surgeries may damage big vessels in the carotid sheath (jugular vein; carotid artery). This gap led to an unprecedent cross sectional study of vagus syntopy using the carotid artery as anatomical mark.

Methods

Fifty cadavers less than 24 hours postmortem were studied. The vagus nerve was spotted, reproducing the patterns performed in thyroidectomies.

Results

On the right side, vagus nerve was posterior to the common carotid artery in 64% of the cases. On the left side, it was anterior, in 68% of the dissections. Comparing both sides, there was no symmetry in this syntopy. No influence of ethnic or anthropometric characteristics was observed.

Conclusion

The vagus nerve is more frequently posterior to the common carotid artery on the right side and, anterior, on the left side.

Level of Evidence

4