bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic ghrelin administration restores hippocampal long‐term potentiation and ameliorates memory impairment in rat model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Eslami Maryam , Sadeghi Bahman , Goshadrou Fatemeh
Published: July 2018

Alzheimer's disease (AD), as a common age‐related dementia, is a progressive manifestation of cognitive decline following synaptic failure resulted majorly by senile plaques composed of deposits of amyloid beta (Aβ). Ghrelin is a multifunctional peptide hormone with receptors present in various brain tissues including hippocampus and has been associated with neuroprotection, neuromodulation, and memory processing. Here, we investigated the neuroprotective and therapeutic effects of intracerebroventricular (icv) ghrelin infusion for 2 weeks on passive avoidance learning (PAL), memory retention, and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) and CA1 of both normal rats and Aβ1–42‐induced neurotoxicity in AD model. Male Wistar rats were evaluated for their passive memory performance using a shuttle box while some groups had already received Aβ1–42 and/or chronic ghrelin. Using field potential recording, the induction of short‐ and long‐term potentiation (STP and LTP) was studied in DG granule cells along with the LTP changes in CA1 pyramidal neurons through stimulation of the medial perforant path (mPP) and Schaffer collaterals (SCs), respectively. Our results demonstrated that chronic ghrelin treatment not only improved memory processing and retrieval in normal rats during the PAL task, but also promoted memory retention and alleviated memory loss by amelioration of Aβ1–42‐induced synaptic plasticity impairment in AD subjects through augmentation of field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSP) slope that led to LTP restitution in both the mPP–DG and the CA3–CA1 synapses. Meanwhile, STP was not significantly changed, meaning that although ghrelin enhanced postsynaptic excitability in DG, it did not change presynaptic transmitter release significantly. This suggests the involvement of postsynaptic mechanisms in long‐term ghrelin‐enhanced memory. In conclusion, it can be inferred that chronic ghrelin administration has an auspicious therapeutic value for impaired cognitive performance and memory deficits in AD‐like neuropathology.
In the eyes of the beholder: Parental and professional value mismatch in child risk and protection in two communities in Israel
Authors: Nadan Yochay , Roer‐Strier Dorit , Gemara Netanel , Engdau‐Vanda Shelly , Tener Dafna
Published: July 2018

This paper aims to identify several of the mismatches at play when social workers encounter families belonging to diverse groups and assess risk, well‐being and protection for children. Two minority groups in Israel were studied: the Ultra‐Orthodox Jewish community and Jewish immigrants from Ethiopia. A context‐informed approach was adopted to explore the subjective perceptions and constructions of “risk,” “well‐being,” and “protection” among parents of the two communities (N = 60) and the social workers who work with them (N = 50). The social workers included some who belong to the minority groups they serve and others who are from the majority group. The analysis of the interviews yielded two main themes: (a) an understanding of the discrepancies in parents' and professionals' perceptions and constructions of “risk” and “protection” for children as the product of differences in the values, norms and contexts of these two groups; and (b) the implications of these discrepancies for the relationship between professionals/social service agencies and parents who are potential service users. Our findings call upon professionals to re‐visit “universals” in the “risk” discourse while taking into account the realms of culture, ethnicity, religiosity, spirituality and community life when assessing risk and treating children and families of minority communities.
Measures of Physical Performance and Muscle Strength as Predictors of Fracture Risk Independent of FRAX, Falls, and aBMD: A Meta-Analysis of the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Study
Authors: Harvey Nicholas C , Odén Anders , Orwoll Eric , Lapidus Jodi , Kwok Timothy , Karlsson Magnus K , Rosengren Björn E , Ribom Eva , Cooper Cyrus , Cawthon Peggy M , Kanis John A , Ohlsson Claes , Mellström Dan , Johansson Helena , McCloskey Eugene
Published: July 2018

Measures of muscle mass, strength, and function predict risk of incident fractures, but it is not known whether this risk information is additive to that from FRAX (fracture risk assessment tool) probability. In the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Study cohorts (Sweden, Hong Kong, United States), we investigated whether measures of physical performance/appendicular lean mass (ALM) by DXA predicted incident fractures in older men, independently of FRAX probability. Baseline information included falls history, clinical risk factors for falls and fractures, femoral neck aBMD, and calculated FRAX probabilities. An extension of Poisson regression was used to investigate the relationship between time for five chair stands, walking speed over a 6 m distance, grip strength, ALM adjusted for body size (ALM/height2), FRAX probability (major osteoporotic fracture [MOF]) with or without femoral neck aBMD, available in a subset of n = 7531), and incident MOF (hip, clinical vertebral, wrist, or proximal humerus). Associations were adjusted for age and time since baseline, and are reported as hazard ratios (HRs) for first incident fracture per SD increment in predictor using meta-analysis. 5660 men in the United States (mean age 73.5 years), 2764 men in Sweden (75.4 years), and 1987 men in Hong Kong (72.4 years) were studied. Mean follow-up time was 8.7 to 10.9 years. Greater time for five chair stands was associated with greater risk of MOF (HR 1.26; 95% CI, 1.19 to 1.34), whereas greater walking speed (HR 0.85; 95% CI, 0.79 to 0.90), grip strength (HR 0.77; 95% CI, 0.72 to 0.82), and ALM/height2 (HR 0.85; 95% CI, 0.80 to 0.90) were associated with lower risk of incident MOF. Associations remained largely similar after adjustment for FRAX, but associations between ALM/height2 and MOF were weakened (HR 0.92; 95% CI, 0.85 to 0.99). Inclusion of femoral neck aBMD markedly attenuated the association between ALM/height2 and MOF (HR 1.02; 95% CI, 0.96 to 1.10). Measures of physical performance predicted incident fractures independently of FRAX probability. Whilst the predictive value of ALM/height2 was substantially reduced by inclusion of aBMD requires further study, these findings support the consideration of physical performance in fracture risk assessment. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Published by Wiley Periodicals Inc.
Epiregulin promotes the migration and chemotaxis ability of adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells via mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling pathways
Authors: Cao Yangyang , Wang Liping , Yang Haoqing , Lin Xiao , Li Guoqing , Han Nannan , Du Juan , Fan Zhipeng
Published: July 2018

To investigate the function of epiregulin (EREG) in the migration and chemotaxis ability of mesenchymal stem cells. Adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) were used in this investigation. Lentiviral EREG short hairpin RNA was applied to silence EREG expression in ADSCs. Human recombinant EREG protein (rhEREG) was used to perform a gain‐of‐function study. Scratch‐simulated wound migration and transwell chemotaxis assays were used to examine the migration and chemotaxis capacity of ADSCs in vitro. Using a Western blot assay, the expressions of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinases 1 and 2 (Erk1/2), and protein kinase B were detected. Depletion of EREG caused by specific short hairpin RNA restrained the migration and chemotaxis ability of ADSCs and inhibited the expressions of phosphorylated p38 MAPK, JNK, and Erk1/2. rhEREG improved ADSCs migration and chemotaxis capacity, which was repressed by knockdown of EREG and rescued the expressions of phosphorylated p38 MAPK, JNK, and Erk1/2 impaired by silencing EREG. Furthermore, rhEREG‐improved migration and chemotaxis ability in EREG‐depleted‐ADSCs was restricted by a specific inhibitor, SB203580, for blocking p38 MAPK signaling, PD98059 for blocking Erk1/2 signaling, or SP600125 for blocking JNK signaling in ADSCs separately. EREG promotes migration and chemotaxis ability of ADSCs through MAPK signaling pathways.
Growth of ovarian cancer xenografts causes loss of muscle and bone mass: a new model for the study of cancer cachexia
Authors: Pin Fabrizio , Barreto Rafael , Kitase Yukiko , Mitra Sumegha , Erne Carlie E. , Novinger Leah J. , Zimmers Teresa A. , Couch Marion E. , Bonewald Lynda F. , Bonetto Andrea
Published: July 2018

Background

Cachexia frequently occurs in women with advanced ovarian cancer (OC), along with enhanced inflammation. Despite being responsible for one third of all cancer deaths, cachexia is generally under‐studied in OC due to a limited number of pre‐clinical animal models. We aimed to address this gap by characterizing the cachectic phenotype in a mouse model of OC.

Methods

Nod SCID gamma mice (n = 6–10) were injected intraperitoneally with 1 × 107 ES‐2 human OC cells to mimic disseminated abdominal disease. Muscle size and strength, as well as bone morphometry, were assessed. Tumour‐derived effects on muscle fibres were investigated in C2C12 myotube cultures. IL‐6 levels were detected in serum and ascites from tumour hosts, as well as in tumour sections.

Results

In about 2 weeks, ES‐2 cells developed abdominal tumours infiltrating omentum, mesentery, and adjacent organs. The ES‐2 tumours caused severe cachexia with marked loss of body weight (–12%, P < 0.01) and ascites accumulation in the peritoneal cavity (4.7 ± 1.5 mL). Skeletal muscles appeared markedly smaller in the tumour‐bearing mice (approximately –35%, P < 0.001). Muscle loss was accompanied by fibre atrophy, consistent with reduced muscle cross‐sectional area (–34%, P < 0.01) and muscle weakness (–50%, P < 0.001). Body composition assessment by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry revealed decreased bone mineral density (–8%, P < 0.01) and bone mineral content (–19%, P < 0.01), also consistent with reduced trabecular bone in both femurs and vertebrae, as suggested by micro‐CT imaging of bone morphometry. In the ES‐2 mouse model, cachexia was also associated with high tumour‐derived IL‐6 levels in plasma and ascites (26.3 and 279.6 pg/mL, respectively) and with elevated phospho‐STAT3 (+274%, P < 0.001), reduced phospho‐AKT (–44%, P < 0.001) and decreased mitochondrial proteins, as well as with increased protein ubiquitination (+42%, P < 0.001) and expression of ubiquitin ligases in the skeletal muscle of tumour hosts. Similarly, ES‐2 conditioned medium directly induced fibre atrophy in C2C12 mouse myotubes (–16%, P < 0.001), consistent with elevated phospho‐STAT3 (+1.4‐fold, P < 0.001) and altered mitochondrial homoeostasis and metabolism, while inhibition of the IL‐6/STAT3 signalling by means of INCB018424 was sufficient to restore the myotubes size.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the development of ES‐2 OC promotes muscle atrophy in both in vivo and in vitro conditions, accompanied by loss of bone mass, enhanced muscle protein catabolism, abnormal mitochondrial homoeostasis, and elevated IL‐6 levels. Therefore, this represents an appropriate model for the study of OC cachexia. Our model will aid in identifying molecular mediators that could be effectively targeted in order to improve muscle wasting associated with OC.
Synthesis and Antioxidant Activity of Bis (Aroyl/Arylsulfonyl Ethenesulfonylmethylazolyl)Pyridines
Authors: Gunthanakkala Anil Kumar , Mangali Madhusekhar , Gudi Yamini , Tatha Sreenivasulu , Venkatapuram Padmavathi , Adivireddy Padmaja
Published: July 2018

A new class of 2,6‐pyridine linked bis (oxadiazoles), bis (thiadiazoles), and bis (triazoles) were prepared from the synthetic intermediates pyridine‐2,6‐dicarbohydrazide, E‐aroylethenesulfonylacetic acid and E‐arylsulfonylethenesulfonylacetic acid adopting ultrasonication methodology and tested for their antioxidant activity. Among all the tested compounds 2,6‐(bis (2‐(4‐methylbenzoylethenesulfonylmethyl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐5‐yl))‐pyridine (7b) was found to be potential antioxidant agent.
High spontaneous clearance of symptomatic iatrogenic acute hepatitis C genotype 4 infection
Authors: Hashem Mohamed , Zaghla Hassan , Zakaria Zainab , Allam Walaa R. , Sameea Eman Abdel , Mikhail Nabiel N. , Sobhy Maha , Galal Iman F. , Mokhtar Yasser , Hamdy Shimaa , Galal Gehan , Abdelwahab Sayed F. , Waked Imam
Published: July 2018

Acute hepatitis C (AHC) infection resolves spontaneously in 15% to 40% of patients. Factors favoring spontaneous viral clearance remain undefined. In this study, predictors of spontaneous viral clearance in patients with symptomatic AHC were investigated. Epidemiological, clinical, and virologic parameters were also examined. Patients with symptomatic AHC were enrolled and followed up prospectively. The patients were followed up every 2 weeks in the first month and then monthly for the following 5 months, with a follow‐up visit 6 months after the last hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐RNA negative sample for those who had cleared the virus. Interleukin (IL)‐28B.rs12979860 single‐nucleotide polymorphism and HCV genotype were tested at baseline. HCV‐RNA was tested during each visit. Patients who remained RNA‐positive at 24 weeks were treated with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin for 24 weeks. A total of 30 patients, mostly with iatrogenically acquired AHC genotype 4 infections completed 6‐months’ follow‐up, to either spontaneous clearance or start of treatment. The mean age of the patients was 37 ± 13 years. In total, 67% of patients were females, and the mean incubation period was 7.6 ± 3.5 weeks. Viral clearance occurred spontaneously in 19 (63.3%) patients. The average time to clearance was 24.3 ± 9.6 weeks. A total of 11 patients received therapy, and 8 (72.7%) cleared the virus and had a sustained virologic response to the treatment 24 weeks after the therapy. A total of three patients were treatment nonresponders. IL28B.rs12979860 CC genotype, female gender, and viremia level were not associated with self‐limiting AHC in this cohort. In conclusion, patients with symptomatic AHC genotype 4 infection caused by an iatrogenic exposure had higher rates of spontaneous resolution than previously reported. Predicting spontaneous viral clearance after iatrogenic AHC exposure was not possible in this population.
Enhancing lactational performance of Holstein dairy cows under commercial production: malic acid as an option
Authors: El‐Zaiat Hani M , Kholif Ahmed E , Mohamed Dyaaeldin A , Matloup Osama H , Anele Uchenna Y , Sallam Sobhy MA
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

In Experiment 1 we studied the effect of malic acid addition at 0, 1, 2 and 3 mg g−1 dry matter (DM) feed on in vitro ruminal fermentation. In Experiment 2, the effect of supplementing malic acid on feed intake, digestion and milk production and composition of lactating cows was studied. 200 multiparous lactating Holstein dairy cows were randomly assigned to two treatments: a basal diet containing concentrate and roughage at 58:42, respectively, with no additive (control treatment) or supplemented with malic acid at 30 g per cow daily (malic treatment).

RESULTS

In Experiment 1, malic acid inclusion at 3 mg g−1 DM decreased in vitro methane production by 33%. In Experiment 2, malic acid decreased (P < 0.01) nutrient intake and increased nutrient digestibility. Greater (P < 0.05) milk yields, energy‐corrected milk yields and milk component yields were observed in cows supplemented with malic acid. Greater milk (feed) efficiency was observed with malic acid treatment compared with the control treatment.

CONCLUSION

The results show that the inclusion of malic acid at 30 g daily in the diet of lactating cows enhanced the nutrient digestibility and increased the milk production as well as feed efficiency. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) pre‐pupae meal as a dietary protein source for broiler production ensures a tasty chicken with standard meat quality for every pot
Authors: Pieterse Elsje , Erasmus Sara W , Uushona Tulimo , Hoffman Louwrens C
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Animal products (fishmeal etc.) are typically used in commercial broiler production systems. However, progressively more pressure is placed on the animal feed industry to find alternative protein sources that are more sustainable, ethical and green, such as insect meal, without having negative effects on the sensory and meat quality. Hence this study aimed to validate the commercial value of black soldier fly (BSF) pre‐pupae meal for broiler production by determining the effects of different dietary levels (0%, 5%, 10% or 15%) on carcass, sensory and meat quality.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences for the carcass characteristics, pH, colour, thaw loss and cooking loss of the broilers. Treatment had no influence on the sensory characteristics (aroma, flavour, juiciness and tenderness) of the breast muscle (P > 0.05). Mineral content was similar across treatments and no differences (P > 0.05) were observed for the long‐chain fatty acid composition of the cooked broiler meat. None of the fatty acids was correlated with chicken flavour.

CONCLUSION

BSF pre‐pupae meal (up to 15%) can be included in broiler diets without influencing the carcass, sensory or meat quality characteristics. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of precipitation and topography on vegetation recovery at landslide sites after the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake
Authors: Yang Wentao , Qi Wenwen , Zhou Jinxing
Published: July 2018

An important form of land degradation is that induced by landslides. Vegetation recovery at coseismic landslide sites not only plays an important role in reducing soil erosion and increasing land stability but also records the transformation of loose, exposed landslide surfaces into stable hillslopes during the post‐seismic years. However, little is known about the vegetation recovery process or its influencing factors. In this study, we use the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) dataset, Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) 3B42 daily precipitation data, and a digital elevation model (DEM) to study the impacts of precipitation and topographic parameters on vegetation recovery after the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake. Our results reveal significant NDVI decreases during the 2008 earthquake and strong recovery in the following years at the coseismic landslide sites. We also found significant negative correlations between precipitation and derivative of the NDVI trend (NDVIDT) in 2010 and 2011 and significant positive correlations in 2009 and 2013 at the regional scale. These significant negative correlations indicate that precipitation may trigger landslides to remobilize, depressing the recovery of vegetation at coseismic landslide sites during the first few years following a major earthquake. The results further show that site‐specific vegetation recovery is determined by topographic parameters at the local scale. In general, vegetation recovery is weaker at low elevations (<1,300 m) and high elevations (>3,300 m), and it is also weaker on gentler slopes (<35°) than on steeper slopes (>35°).
A novel method to assess mass loss of aluminium in concrete
Authors: Herting Gunilla , Karlsson Maria‐Elisa , Odnevall Wallinder Inger
Published: July 2018

A novel pickling procedure for aluminium is elaborated for successful removal of corrosion products on aluminium embedded and exposed in concrete, allowing subsequent mass loss evaluation. The current recommended standard procedures for mass loss evaluation of aluminium are not sufficiently effective, either leaving significant amounts of concrete and corrosion products on the aluminium surfaces after pickling, or containing hazardous chemicals. Removal of both concrete and corrosion products from the aluminium surfaces require a stepwise combination of an aqueous glycine solution, nitric acid at elevated temperature and careful manual removal of adherent concrete.
Links between patient safety and fear of childbirth—A meta‐study of qualitative research
Authors: Lyberg Anne , Dahl Bente , Haruna Megumi , Takegata Mizuki , Severinsson Elisabeth
Published: July 2018

Aim

To conduct a meta‐study of qualitative empirical research to explore the links between patient safety and fear of childbirth in the maternity care context. The review questions were: How are patient safety and fear of childbirth described? and What are the links between patient safety and fear of childbirth in the maternity care context?

Design

Meta‐study.

Data sources

The CINAHL, Cochrane, PubMed, Webb of Science, Proquest and Medline (Ovid) electronic databases were searched for articles published between June 2000‐June 2016.

Review methods

A meta‐study of qualitative research with a thematic analysis followed by a synthesis.

Results

Four descriptive themes emerged: “Physical risks associated with giving birth vaginally”; “Control and safety issues”; “Preventing psychological maternal trauma and optimizing foetal well‐being”; and “Fear of the transition to motherhood due to lack of confidence”. The two overarching analytical themes: “Opting for safety” and “An insecure environment breeds fear of childbirth”, represent a deeper understanding and constitute the synthesis of the links between patient safety and fear of childbirth. This meta‐study indicates the need for increased commitment to safe care and professional support to reduce risks and prevent unnecessary harm in maternity care.
Flow cytometry for assessment of the tumor microenvironment in pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Henry Meret , Buck Steven , Savaşan Süreyya
Published: July 2018

Background

The role of flow cytometry in diagnosis and management of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) remains limited. As knowledge emerges of the tumor microenvironment in this disease, various methods are being evaluated in its study. This study examines the microenvironment using flow cytometry to assess differences between subtypes and clinicopathologic correlates.

Procedure

A retrospective cross‐sectional study was performed analyzing the tumor immunophenotype, by flow cytometry, for 31 children with classical HL. Correlation was made with patient information, including outcome.

Results

The makeup of the tumor microenvironment varies across subtype of HL, with T cells predominating in nodular sclerosis (NS), and similar proportions of B and T cells in mixed cellularity (MC). CD4 cells predominate in NS, whereas CD8 more so in MC subtype. The rate of continuous complete remission is significantly higher in the MC subgroup. Last, the proportion of HLA‐DR/CD38 copositive lymphocytes was an independent prognostic factor for relapse/refractoriness.

Conclusions

This study indicates that flow cytometry can be used to examine the tumor microenvironment in HL and that percentage of HLA‐DR/CD38 copositive lymphocytes may be a biomarker for relapse and refractoriness in pediatric HL.
Updated classification and therapy of vascular malformations in pediatric patients
Authors: Zhang Bin , Ma Lin
Published: July 2018

Vascular malformations (VMs) comprise a diverse group of diagnoses. They are classified by the type of vessel involved, including capillaries, veins, arteries, lymphatic vessels, or combinations of these. Complex VMs, although benign, can impair vital structures, cause deformations, or even threaten the child's life. Although multimodal treatment of VMs in children with disease include a wide variety of options such as observation, laser therapy, sclerotherapy, surgical resection, radiofrequency ablation, and medical therapy, the management of VMs necessitates a multifocal and multidisciplinary method with the patient's quality of life as the priority.
Low pressure plasma modifications for the generation of hydrophobic coatings for biomaterials applications
Authors: Siow Kim S.
Published: July 2018

This review focuses on low‐pressure plasma modification methods to produce hydrophobic coatings and surface modifications on biomaterials. Plasma‐deposited fluoropolymer, siloxane, and diamond‐like carbon (DLC) coatings are reviewed in terms of process developments, monomers used, stability and aging properties, and their behavior in adsorption of proteins, cell attachment, and bacterial adhesion. These hydrophobic coatings are stable with correct selection of monomers and process conditions, but the plasma polymerized siloxane and fluorocarbons have been mainly applied in biochip and test kits rather than in blood‐contact applications. Similarly, the surface characteristics and interfacial bonding of DLC coatings play a crucial role in their successful implementation.
Prenatally diagnosed congenital lung malformations—A long‐term outcome study
Authors: Thompson Andrea J. , Sidebotham Emma L. , Chetcuti Philip A.J. , Crabbe David C.G.
Published: July 2018

Aim

To report the natural history of a cohort of children with prenatally diagnosed congenital lung malformations (CLM) which we set out to manage expectantly.

Methods

Retrospective review of children born between 1995 and 2013 with a CLM identified on prenatal ultrasound. Prenatal ultrasound data were analyzed along with patient medical records, radiology, and pathology.

Results

One hundred fifty‐nine newborns with a fetal lung lesion were identified during the study period. All infants were live born. Twenty‐eight (18%) newborns were symptomatic, 17 with transient symptoms, and 11 with persistent symptoms. The latter all underwent lobectomy in the neonatal period with two postoperative deaths. One hundred thirty‐one asymptomatic newborns plus the 17 babies with transient symptoms (148 total) were followed during childhood for a median of 6.0 years (0.1‐19.2 years). Twenty‐one children (13% of the original cohort of 159) became symptomatic at a median age of 2.5 years (9 months‐5 years 8 months) with infection and underwent CLM resection. No child became symptomatic after the age of 5 years 8 months. One hundred twenty‐seven children remained symptom free during follow‐up for a median of 5.75 years (1 month‐19 years). We saw no instance of malignancy in the resected specimens.

Conclusions

This study adds further evidence that most children born with CLM identified prenatally are asymptomatic at birth and the majority will remain asymptomatic during childhood. We recommend follow‐up to the age of 10 years.
Profiling Analysis Reveals the Potential Contribution of Peptides to Human Adipocyte Differentiation
Authors: Wang Xingyun , Xu Siliang , Chen Ling , Shen Dan , Cao Yan , Tang Ranran , Wang Xing , Ji Chenbo , Li Yun , Cui Xianwei , Guo Xirong
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Peptide drugs provide promising regimes in anti‐obesity treatment. In order to identify potential bioactive peptides involved in adipogenesis.

Experimental design

The intracellular peptides between preadipocytes and adipocytes are compared by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. The underlying biological function of the identified peptides are evaluated by gene ontology (GO) and pathway analysis of their precursors. To find more potential bioactive peptides, 50 peptide sequences are identified located in the functional domains with the use of the SMART and UniProt databases. Finally, the Open Targets Platform database is used to investigate the precursors related to metabolic diseases.

Results

A total of 181 downregulated peptides and 89 upregulated peptides after differentiation (fold change > 1.5 and p‐value < 0.05) are identified. The GO and pathway analysis indicate that these differentially expressed peptides play a role in adipogenesis. A total of 10 putative peptides 6 to 26 amino acids in length are identified that might have bioactive effects in adipogenesis and metabolic diseases.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

On one hand, present preliminary research provides a better understanding of the intracellular peptides during adipocyte differentiation. On the other hand, it lays a foundation for discovering new peptide drugs in anti‐obesity treatment.
Towards more realistic hypotheses for the information content analysis of cloudy/precipitating situations – Application to a hyperspectral instrument in the microwave
Authors: Aires Filipe , Prigent Catherine , Buehler Stefan A. , Eriksson Patrick , Milz Mathias , Crewell Susanne
Published: July 2018

Information Content (IC) analysis can be used before an instrument is built to estimate its retrieval uncertainties and analyse their sensitivity to several factors. It is a very useful method to define/optimize satellite instruments. IC has shown its potential to compare instrument concepts in the infrared or the microwave. IC is based on some hypotheses such as the the Gaussian character of the radiative transfer (RT) and instrument errors, the first‐guess errors (Gaussian character, std and correlation structure), or the linearization of the RT around a first guess. These hypotheses are easier to define for simple atmospheric situations. However, even in the clear‐sky case, their complexity has never ceased to increase towards more realism, to optimize the assimilation of satellite measurements in numerical weather prediction (NWP) systems. In the cloudy/precipitating case, these hypotheses are even more difficult to define in a realistic way as many factors are still very difficult to quantify. In this study, several tools are introduced to specify more realistic IC hypotheses than the current practice. We focus on microwave observations as they are more pertinent for clouds and precipitation. Although not perfect, the proposed solutions are a new step towards more realistic IC assumptions of cloudy/precipitating scenes. A state‐dependence of the RT errors is introduced, the first‐guess errors have a more complex vertical structure, the IC is performed simultaneously on all the hydrometeors to take into account the contamination effect of the RT input uncertainties, and the IC is performed on a diversified set of cloudy/precipitating scenes with well‐defined hydrometeor assumptions. The method presented in this study is illustrated using the HYperspectral Microwave Sensor (HYMS) instrument concept with channels between 6.9 and 874 GHz (millimetre and sub‐millimetre regions). HYMS is considered as a potential next generation microwave sounder.
An Industry-Driven Roadmap for Manufacturing in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Hunsberger Joshua G. , Shupe Thomas , Atala Anthony
Published: July 2018

Regenerative medicine is poised to become a significant industry within the medical field. As such, the development of strategies and technologies for standardized and automated regenerative medicine clinical manufacturing has become a priority. An industry-driven roadmap toward industrial scale clinical manufacturing was developed over a 3-year period by a consortium of companies with significant investment in the field of regenerative medicine. Additionally, this same group identified critical roadblocks that stand in the way of advanced, large-scale regenerative medicine clinical manufacturing. This perspective article details efforts to reach a consensus among industry stakeholders on the shortest pathway for providing access to regenerative medicine therapies for those in need, both within the United States and around the world.
Structure‐activity relationship of supported Au catalysts with high catalytic activity by modifying the inactive supports
Authors: Wang Shu , Huo Rufei , Li Changjiang , Zhao Yaling , Zheng Yuchuan
Published: July 2018

Three supported Au catalysts have been prepared by the deposition‐precipitation method by using the active carbon (AC), SiO2‐AC, and SiO2‐AC‐hollowed. The 3 supports were characterized by Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller and scanning electron microscopy. Meanwhile, the supported Au nanoparticles were also characterized in detail by X‐ray powder diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, H2‐TRP, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and their catalytic activity and stability in CO oxidation was evaluated. The results demonstrated that Au supported on SiO2‐AC‐hollowed exhibited much higher catalytic activity with acceptable stability for 72 hours than the other 2. We attributed to finer supported Au nanoparticles with abundant low‐coordinated Au atoms on the surfaces of hollowed supports with large special surface area and abundant pore structure. In summary, we successfully found an efficient and cheap method to prepare catalysts with high catalytic activity and acceptable stability by modifying the inactive supports.
p‐Phenylenediamine Functionalization Induced 3D Microstructure Formation of Reduced Graphene Oxide for the Improved Electrical double Layer Capacitance in Organic Electrolyte
Authors: Yang Junghoon , Shin Jeongyim , Amedzo‐Adore Mawuse , Lau Vincent Wing‐hei , Yamauchi Yusuke , Kang Yong‐Mook
Published: July 2018

Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) have been regarded as promising electrode material for supercapacitors. However, restacking of layers limits its surface area and pore volume which, in turn, suppress the electrochemical performances. Herein, we functionalize RGO with para‐phenylenediamine (p‐PDA) to suppress the problem and thus preserve the surface area and pore volume. p‐PDA functionalized RGO (p‐PDA‐RGO) is explored as electrode materials for organic electrolytes based supercapacitors. The structural characteristics are characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and FT‐IR. Electron microscopy demonstrates formation of randomly oriented 3D structure after functionalization. Effect of p‐PDA functionalization toward surface area and pore volume is analyzed by Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) and Barrett‐Joyner‐Halenda (BJH) analysis. The effect of p‐PDA functionalization toward electrochemical performances is evaluated in symmetrical supercapacitors in organic electrolytes. p‐PDA‐RGO shows an improvement in capacitance over 10,000 cycles while attaining stability with high power capability.
Flexible Graphene‐Wrapped Carbon Nanotube/Graphene@MnO2 3D Multilevel Porous Film for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Sesi , Zhao Yunhao , Liu Zhengwang , Yang Liting , Zhang Jie , Wang Min , Che Renchao
Published: July 2018

The ingenious design of a freestanding flexible electrode brings the possibility for power sources in emerging wearable electronic devices. Here, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) wraps carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and rGO tightly surrounded by MnO2 nanosheets, forming a 3D multilevel porous conductive structure via vacuum freeze‐drying. The sandwich‐like architecture possesses multiple functions as a flexible anode for lithium‐ion batteries. Micrometer‐sized pores among the continuously waved rGO layers could extraordinarily improve ion diffusion. Nano‐sized pores among the MnO2 nanosheets and CNT/rGO@MnO2 particles could provide vast accessible active sites and alleviate volume change. The tight connection between MnO2 and carbon skeleton could facilitate electron transportation and enhance structural stability. Due to the special structure, the rGO‐wrapped CNT/rGO@MnO2 porous film as an anode shows a high capacity, excellent rate performance, and superior cycling stability (1344.2 mAh g−1 over 630 cycles at 2 A g−1, 608.5 mAh g−1 over 1000 cycles at 7.5 A g−1). Furthermore, the evolutions of microstructure and chemical valence occurring inside the electrode after cycling are investigated to illuminate the structural superiority for energy storage. The excellent electrochemical performance of this freestanding flexible electrode makes it an attractive candidate for practical application in flexible energy storage.
Controlling Interactions of Cyclic Oligosaccharides with Hetero‐Oligomeric Nanopores: Kinetics of Binding and Release at the Single‐Molecule Level
Authors: Satheesan Remya , R. Smrithi Krishnan , Mahendran Kozhinjampara R.
Published: July 2018

Controlling the molecular interactions through protein nanopores is crucial for effectively detecting single molecules. Here, the development of a hetero‐oligomeric nanopore derived from Nocardia farcinica porin AB (NfpAB) is discussed for single‐molecule sensing of biopolymers. Using single‐channel recording, the interaction of cyclic oligosaccharides such as cationic cyclodextrins (CDs) of different symmetries and charges with NfpAB is measured. Studies of the transport kinetics of CDs reveal asymmetric geometry and charge distribution of NfpAB. The applied potential promotes the attachment of the cationic CDs to the negatively charged pore surface due to electrostatic interaction. Further, the attached CDs are released from the pore by reversing the applied potential in time‐resolved blockages. Release of CDs from the pore depends on its charge, size, and magnitude of the applied potential. The kinetics of CD attachment and release is controlled by fine‐tuning the applied potential demonstrating the successful molecular transport across these nanopores. It is suggested that such controlled molecular interactions with protein nanopores using organic templates can be useful for several applications in nanopore technology and single‐molecule chemistry.
Case Studies of Math Education for STEM in Russia
Authors: Pohjolainen Seppo , Myllykoski Tuomas , Mercat Christian , Sosnovsky Sergey
Published: July 2018

This chapter describes case studies of math education for STEM in Russian universities: Kazan National Research Technical University named after A.N. Tupolev, Saint Petersburg State Electrotechnical University (LETI), Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod, Ogarev Mordovia State University and Tver State University. It includes comparative analysis of math curricula for STEM of above-mentioned universities and several European universities which participate in the project.
Case Studies of Math Education for STEM in Georgia
Authors: Pohjolainen Seppo , Myllykoski Tuomas , Mercat Christian , Sosnovsky Sergey
Published: July 2018

The history of Akaki Tsereteli State University (ATSU) started eight decades ago and now it is distinguished with its traditions throughout Georgia and holds an honorable place in the business of cultural, intellectual and moral education of the Georgian nation. According to the Georgian government’s resolution #39, February 23, 2006 the legal entities of public law Kutaisi Akaki Tsereteli State University and Kutaisi N. Muskhelishvili State Technical University were combined, the educational status being determined to be the university and the new entity was named Akaki Tsereteli State University. ATSU was merged with Sukhumi Subtropical Teaching University in 2010.
A Comparison of Two Preoperative Frailty Models in Predicting Postoperative Outcomes in Geriatric General Surgical Patients
Authors: Andreou Alexandros , Lasithiotakis Konstantinos , Venianaki Maria , Xenaki Sofia , Chlouverakis Grigorios , Petrakis Ioannis , Chalkiadakis Georgios
Published: July 2018

Background

Frailty in a surgical geriatric population may identify patients at increased risk of complications. However, the optimal method to diagnose it remains to be identified. This study aims to compare two common frailty models and assess their association with postoperative adverse outcomes in elderly patients undergoing general surgical procedures.

Methods

Prospective study including 298 patients age 65 years or older undergoing elective general surgical operations in a tertiary hospital. Frailty phenotype (FP) was classified using a validated scale which included weight loss, weakness, exhaustion, slowed walking speed and low physical activity. A preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) was performed including managing daily activities (ADL), instrumental ADL, cognitive status, comorbidities, polypharmacy and nutritional status. Main outcomes measures were postoperative complications and length of stay.

Results

There were 135 (46%), 114 (38%) and 46 (15%) minor/intermediate, major and major + procedures, respectively. The agreement between the FP and CGA was moderate (kappa index: 0.45). FP was significantly associated with postoperative complications with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.3, (95% confidence interval 1.4–3.8, p < 0.01). The association of CGA with postoperative complications did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.07). Postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in both CGA frailty (p < 0.001) and FP (p = 0.001) groups compared to the fit population. In the multivariate analysis adjusted for ASA and POSSUM category, FP retained its significance as a predictor of postoperative complications (OR: 1.9, 95% CI 1.03–3.3, p = 0.038).

Conclusions

FP was associated more consistently than CGA with adverse postoperative outcomes in elderly patients undergoing general surgical procedures.
The role of eclogites in the redistribution of water in the subcontinental mantle of the Siberian craton: results of determination of the water content in minerals from the Udachnaya pipe eclogites
Authors: Kolesnichenko M.V. , Zedgenizov D.A. , Ragozin A.L. , Litasov K.D. , Shatsky V.S.
Published: July 2018

A comprehensive study of 26 mafic mantle xenoliths from the Udachnaya kimberlite pipe was carried out. The contents of major and trace elements, equilibrium temperature parameters, and water content in the rock-forming minerals were determined. The temperatures of formation of the studied rocks are estimated at 800–1300 °C. According to IR spectroscopy data, the water content in clinopyroxenes from the studied eclogites varies from values below the detection limit to 99 ppm. The IR spectra of garnets lack bands of water. The water content in clinopyroxene and orthopyroxene from garnet websterite is 72 and 8 ppm, respectively. The water content in the average rock, calculated from the ratio of the rock-forming minerals, varies from a few to 55 ppm. No relationship among the water content, equilibrium temperatures, and rock composition is established. The low water contents in the eclogites are close to the earlier determined water contents in peridotites from the same pipe and are, most likely, due to the re-equilibration of the eclogites with the rocks of the peridotitic lithospheric mantle. The dehydration of the protolith during its subduction and the partial melting of eclogites before their removal by kimberlitic magma to the surface might be an additional cause of the low water contents in the mantle eclogite xenoliths.
Editorial
Authors: Mansfield-Devine Steve
Published: July 2018

Things seem to have taken a turn for the better lately with regard to privacy. And no, I'm not talking about the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), although that will have focused the minds of many organisations in the right direction.
Assessing website password practices – over a decade of progress?
Authors: Furnell Steven
Published: July 2018

World Password Day 2018 saw Microsoft suggesting that it would deliver a “world without passwords” and BlackBerry proposing that they would be replaced by adaptive authentication (based on the buzzwords du jour of artificial intelligence and machine learning). 1, 2 Yet at the same time we had the irony of Twitter asking 330 million subscribers to change their passwords, having discovered a bug in the firm's internal systems that resulted in them being stored in unencrypted form. 3

Every now and again we get a flurry of headlines proclaiming the passing of passwords, yet they are still with us and still being broken and breached.

Steven Furnell of the University of Plymouth, UK and Edith Cowan University, Australia presents the results of an assessment of password guidance and policy enforcement on a series of leading websites and compares them with three earlier studies. A consistent finding in all prior cases was that sites were doing less than might be expected. So, 11 years on from the original study, what's changed and have things got better?
Trait Mindfulness and Wellness in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Mioduszewski Ola , MacLean Heather , Poulin Patricia A. , Smith Andra M. , Walker Lisa A. S.
Published: July 2018

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive, autoimmune, neurodegenerative disorder that can interfere with physical and psychological functioning, negatively affecting health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Fostering mindfulness may mitigate the negative consequences of MS on HRQoL. The relationship between mindfulness, mood and MS-related quality of life was investigated. In total, 52 individuals with MS completed questionnaires to examine the relationship between trait mindfulness and wellness. Higher levels of trait mindfulness were associated with better HRQoL, lower depression and anxiety, lower fatigue impact and fewer perceived cognitive deficits. Mindfulness interventions have the potential to enhance wellness in those living with MS.
Mediator effects of parameters of inflammation and neurogenesis from a N-acetyl cysteine clinical-trial for bipolar depression
Authors: Panizzutti Bruna , Bortolasci Chiara , Hasebe Kyoko , Kidnapillai Srisaiyini , Gray Laura , Walder Ken , Berk Michael , Mohebbi Mohammadreza , Dodd Seetal , Gama Clarissa , Magalhães Pedro V. , Cotton Susan M. , Kapczinski Flávio , Bush Ashley I. , Malhi Gin S. , Dean Olivia M.
Published: July 2018

Objective

This study aimed to explore effects of adjunctive treatment with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) on markers of inflammation and neurogenesis in bipolar depression.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of a placebo-controlled randomised trial. Serum samples were collected at baseline, week 8, and week 32 of the open-label and maintenance phases of the clinical trial to determine changes in interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) following adjunctive NAC treatment, and to explore mediation and moderator effects of the listed markers.

Results

Levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukins (IL) -6, 8, or 10 were not significantly changed during the course of the trial or specifically in the open-label and maintenance phases. There were no mediation or moderation effects of the biological factors on the clinical parameters.

Conclusion

The results suggest that these particular biological parameters may not be directly involved in the therapeutic mechanism of action of adjunctive NAC in bipolar depression.
Global outburst of methanol maser in G24.33+0.14
Authors: Wolak P. , Szymczak M. , Olech M. , Bartkiewicz A.
Published: July 2018

A strong outburst of 6.7 GHz methanol maser occurred in the high-mass young stellar object (HMYSO) G24.33+0.14 between November 2010 and January 2013. The target was observed with the Torun 32 m radio telescope as a part of a long-term monitoring programme. Almost all twelve spectral features from 108 to 120 km s−1 varied synchronously with time delays between the flux minima of about two weeks. This may indicate that the variability is driven by global changes in the pump rate. The flare peaks of the two features with the highest relative amplitude of 40-60 are delayed by about 2.5 months while their profiles undergo essential transformation with a velocity drift of 0.23 km s−1yr−1. This may suggest that the variability is caused by a rapid increase of the pump rate and excitation of a large portion of the HMYSO environment by an accretion event.
Searching for warped disk AGN candidates
Authors: Fedorova E. , Hnatyk B. I. , Zhdanov V. I. , Vasylenko A.
Published: July 2018

Mapping the maser emission of subnuclear regions of active galactic nuclei (AGN) enable us to determine some interesting details of the geometry of the accretion disks (AD) under the condition that they have “maser skin”. Additional information about disk warp in the innermost zone near the central black hole (BH) can be disclosed by means of modeling the shape of the relativistically broadened iron emission lines in the energy range 6-7 keV. Here we analyze the influence of the AD geometry (warp) on the shape of the set of relativistically broadened emission lines, as well as consider some examples of AGNs identified by maser mapping techinque as warped and having the complex shape of iron lines near 6.4 keV.