bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MnO/N‐Doped Mesoporous Carbon as Advanced Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalyst for Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Ding Jieting , Ji Shan , Wang Hui , Brett Dan J. L. , Pollet Bruno G. , Wang Rongfang
Published: December 2018

The development of alternative electrocatalysts exhibiting high activity in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is vital for the deployment of large‐scale clean energy devices, such as fuel cells and zinc–air batteries. N‐doped carbon materials offer a promising platform for the design and synthesis of electrocatalysts due to their high ORR activity, high surface area, and tunable porosity. In this study, materials in which MnO nanoparticles are entrapped in N‐doped mesoporous carbon (MnO/NC) were developed as electrocatalysts for the ORR, and their performances were evaluated in zinc–air batteries. The obtained carbon materials had large surface area and high electrocatalytic activity toward the ORR. The carbon compounds were fabricated by using NaCl as template in a one‐pot process, which significantly simplifies the procedure for preparing mesoporous carbon materials and in turn reduces the total cost. A primary zinc–air battery based on this material exhibits an open‐circuit voltage of 1.49 V, which is higher than that of conventional zinc–air batteries with Pt/C (Pt/C cell) as ORR catalyst (1.41 V). The assembled zinc–air battery delivered a peak power density of 168 mW cm−2 at a current density of about 200 mA cm−2, which is higher than that of an equivalent Pt/C cell (151 mW cm−2 at a current density of ca. 200 mA cm−2). The electrocatalytic data revealed that MnO/NC is a promising nonprecious‐metal ORR catalyst for practical applications in metal–air batteries.
Effects of lignite dewatering treatment on the surface behaviour and NO emission characteristics during the combustion process
Authors: Zhao Yaying , Zhao Guangbo , Sun Rui , Wang Zhuozhi , Liu Hui
Published: December 2018

Hailaer lignite (HLE) with a uniform particle size distribution (3–6 mm) was employed to investigate the parameters of the low‐temperature dewatering process influencing the emission of gaseous pollutants (NOx) during their combustion process. The combustion of HLE original/dried samples obtained from a COMBDry drying system were carried out in a fixed bed horizontal furnace under an air atmosphere at the reaction temperature of 1100 °C. The dewatering treatment led to the enhancement of the relative amount of the volatile and fixed carbon content in the upgraded coal sample. The deconvolution of the Raman spectra of each sample showed that the increased degree of drying led to an enhancement of the defects in aromatic structures, indicating an enhancement in the number of active sites or oxygen‐containing complexes on particle surface. The devolatilization and combustion experimental results showed the following: (1) with the increase in the degree of drying, more HCN and NH3 were released during the devolatilization process, and both HCN and NH3 molecules had positive effects on the consumption of NO under high temperature conditions; (2) due to the enhancement of the specific surface area and total amount of surface active sites (Cf) after the drying treatment, the combustion and reduction reactivity of the dried HLE samples increased significantly; and (3) the conversion ratio of fuel‐N to NO during the combustion process decreased significantly with the increase of the degree of dewatering. Therefore, it could be concluded that the removal of moisture content in lignite particles in advance had positive effects on lignite high efficiency combustion with low NO emission.
Relation of left atrial appendage closure devices to topographic neighboring structures using standardized imaging by cardiac computed tomography angiography
Authors: Lindner Simon , Behnes Michael , Wenke Annika , Sartorius Benjamin , Dieker Wulf , Ansari Uzair , Akin Muharrem , Bertsch Thomas , Mashayekhi Kambis , Vogler Nils , Haubenreisser Holger , Schoenberg Stefan O. , Borggrefe Martin , Akin Ibrahim
Published: December 2018

Background

Although left atrial appendage (LAA) anatomy and topographic relations are well understood, little is known about the impairment of neighboring structures (NBS) by an implanted left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) device. This prospective longitudinal observational study for the first time describes distances of implanted LAA closure (LAAC) devices to NBS using a standardized imaging protocol of cardiac computed tomography angiography (cCTA).

Hypothesis

cCTA imaging is an eligible tool for post‐implantation evaluation of LAAC devices and their relation to neighboring structures.

Methods

cCTA data sets of consecutive patients 6 months after successful LAAC were acquired on a third generation dual‐source CT system and reconstructed with a slice thickness of 0.5 mm. The standardized multi‐planar reconstruction LAA occluder view for post‐implantation evaluation (LOVE) algorithm was used to measure the distances to NBS in relation to LAA morphology and implanted LAAC devices.

Results

A total of 48 patients (median age 80 years, 25% female) were included. Left upper pulmonary vein and circumflex artery were generally closest to occlusion devices (median 2.9 and 2.8 mm, respectively). AMPLATZER AMULET devices were closer to the mitral valve annulus than WATCHMAN devices (6.6 mm (inter quartile range [IQR] 4.9‐8.6) vs 10.9 mm (IQR 7.4‐14.0), P = 0.001). Distances to the left upper pulmonary vein were affected by LAA morphology, with cauliflower type having the closest proximity (1.7 mm [IQR 1.0‐3.4], P = 0.048).

Conclusion

A standardized cCTA imaging protocol is an eligible tool to accurately measure distances to NBS. Left upper pulmonary vein and circumflex artery are closest to LAAC devices and could thus be most prone to impairment.
Myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia after receipt of granulocyte colony‐stimulating factors in older patients with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Calip Gregory S. , Moran Kellyn M. , Sweiss Karen I. , Patel Pritesh R. , Wu Zhaoju , Adimadhyam Sruthi , Lee Todd A. , Ko Naomi Y. , Quigley John G. , Chiu Brian C.‐H.
Published: December 2018

Background

Granulocyte colony‐stimulating factors (G‐CSFs), which are used for the prevention of complications from chemotherapy‐related neutropenia, are linked to the risk of developing second primary myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The objective of this study was to examine the correlation between using a specific G‐CSF agent and the risk of MDS/AML among older patients with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of adults aged >65 years who were diagnosed with first primary NHL between 2001 and 2011. With data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results‐Medicare–linked database, adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated for the risk of MDS/AML associated with the receipt of G‐CSF(filgrastim and pegfilgrastim) in Cox proportional‐hazards models, which were stratified according to treatment accounting for confounding by indication.

Results

Among 18,245 patients with NHL patients who had a median follow‐up of 3.5 years, 56% received chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy, and G‐CSF was most commonly used in those who received rituximab plus multiple chemotherapy regimens (77%). Subsequent MDS/AML diagnoses were identified in 666 patients (3.7%). A modest increased risk of MDS/AML was observed with the receipt of G‐CSF (HR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.01‐1.62) and a trend was observed with increasing doses (Ptrend < .01). When specific agents were analyzed, an increased risk of MDS/AML was consistently observed with filgrastim (≥10 doses: HR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.25‐2.23), but not with pegfilgrastim (≥10 + doses: HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.84‐1.45).

Conclusions

A higher of MDS/AML was observed in patients with NHL risk among those who received G‐CSF that was specific to the use of filgrastim (≥10 doses), but not pegfilgrastim. Neutropenia prophylaxis is an essential component of highly effective NHL treatment regimens. The differential risk related to the types of G‐CSF agents used warrants further study given their increasing use and newly available, US Food and Drug Administration–approved, biosimilar products.
Generation of Pancreatic Ductal Organoids and Whole‐Mount Immunostaining of Intact Organoids
Authors: Rezanejad Habib , Lock Jennifer Hollister , Sullivan Brooke A , Bonner‐Weir Susan
Published: December 2018

Traditionally, studies of cells and tissues have been performed on isolated primary cells or immortalized cell lines by culturing them in 2D culture dishes or flasks. However, a caveat regarding 2D culture is that the cells poorly recapitulate their in vivo counterparts, mainly due to a lack of 3D cell‐cell and cell–extracellular matrix interactions. In recent years, the development of in vitro organoids as 3D culture has gained substantial attention as a model to study different tissues. In adults, pancreatic ductal cells are considered as a source of stem or progenitor cells, so developing new methods to study ductal cells would be useful. Here, we provide a protocol to isolate mouse pancreatic ductal cells and a cost‐effective protocol to generate 3D organoid structures from such ductal cells. Additionally, we have devised a protocol for immunostaining of intact whole organoids without sectioning. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Combinatorial Utilization of Murine Embryonic Stem Cells and In Vivo Models to Study Human Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Zakariyah Abeer , Rajgara Rashida , Shelton Michael , Blais Alexandre , Skerjanc Ilona S. , Burgon Patrick G.
Published: December 2018

We have established an in vitro model of the human congenital heart defect (CHD)–associated mutation NKX2.5 R141C. We describe the use of the hanging drop method to differentiate Nkx2.5R141C/+ murine embryonic stem cells (mESCs) along with Nkx2.5+/+ control cells. This method allows us to recapitulate the early stages of embryonic heart development in tissue culture. We also use qRT‐PCR and immunofluorescence to examine samples at different time points during differentiation to validate our data. The in vivo model is a mouse line with a knock‐in of the same mutation. We describe the isolation of RNA from embryonic day 8.5 (E8.5) embryos and E9.5 hearts of wild‐type and mutant mice. We found that the in vitro model shows reduced cardiomyogenesis, similar to Nkx2.5R141C/+ embryos at E8.5, indicating a transient loss of cardiomyogenesis at this time point. These results suggest that our in vitro model can be used to study very early changes in heart development that cause CHD. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Ecological and phylogenetic predictors of mobbing behavior in a tropical dry forest
Authors: Lima Hevana Santana de , Las‐Casas Flor Maria G. , Ribeiro Jonathan R. , Gonçalves‐Souza Thiago , Naka Luciano N.
Published: December 2018

Mobbing represents a well‐known anti‐predatory behavior, where potential prey display aggressively against a predator. Despite considerable experimental and descriptive work, no models predict species participation in mobbing assemblages. Here, we aimed to understand why some bird species engage in this behavior, while others do not, and what factors can be used to predict mobbing engagement within an avian community. We investigated whether certain functional traits, such as body size, foraging guild, foraging mode, and strata, as well species abundance and evolutionary relatedness, are important mobbing predictors. To address these goals, we simulated the presence of the Ferruginous Pygmy‐Owl (Glaucidium brasilianum) by broadcasting its voice in 230 experiments conducted in 115 points, systematically distributed in a dry forest of northeastern Brazil. We compared these results to 162 avian surveys (point counts) conducted in the same area. Our avian surveys detected 108 bird species (local avian community), whereas our playback experiments attracted 72 species (mobbing assemblage). In general, small, canopy insectivorous or frugivorous birds dominated the mobs. The best mobbing predictors were body mass and guild, whereas species abundance, foraging mode, and strata were not retained in the best models. We found a strong phylogenetic component in body mass and mobbing propensity (almost 90% of the species and individuals participating in the mobs were passerines). At the community level, we found significant differences in the functional and phylogenetic structure of the mobbing assemblage in relation to the avian community. Our results suggest that mobbing behavior is tightly associated with predation risk and the capacity of individual species to find and detect predators, and that functional and phylogenetic features can predict species participation in this complex animal behavior.
Monte Carlo simulation of microparticle motion in vacuum gap
Authors: Ejiri Haruki , Kumada Akiko , Hidaka Kunihiko , Donen Taiki , Kokura Kentaro
Published: December 2018

Breakdown voltages of vacuum gaps become lower when the gaps are contaminated by metallic and ceramic microparticles. In this paper, the motion of the microparticles in the gap is simulated using Monte Carlo method in order to evaluate the effect of parameters upon motion and the removal time of the microparticles. As the parameters, we focused on the material of the microparticle, the frequency, the peak value of the applied voltage, the gap length, and the diameter of the lower and upper electrodes. It turned out that the maximum time needed to remove all microparticles could be expressed as multiple regression function. It is suggested that the reliability of the microparticle removal can be increased by spark conditioning with opening/closing operation.
Phenoxy‐Alkyl Maleates as Phase‐Selective Organogelators for Gelation of Edible Oils
Authors: Kumar Bijari A. , Nayak Rati R.
Published: December 2018

Phase selective gelation may solve environmental problems such as water pollution and fire accidents during oil storage, a major problem for aquatic bodies. The objective of this work is to synthesize a series of phenoxy‐alkyl maleates (n‐PAM) oleogelators with homologous alkyl chain lengths for efficient phase selective gelation. The n‐PAM molecules are found to form oleogel in various edible oils among which sunflower oil shows best gelation. The gelation behavior increases with an increase in alkyl chain length of the n‐PAM gelators as observed from their low minimum gelation concentration (MGC) values. Oleogels thermal stability is examine through tube inversion method and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The rheological studies suggest that the oleogel of sunflower oil is mechanically stable and show typical viscoelastic properties. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) study of the gels shows sheet‐like morphology. Furthermore, the n‐PAM gelators exhibit quick phase selective gelation of edible oils at low MGC. Both the edible oil and gelator are quantitatively regained from recovered oleogel by employing the vacuum distillation. It is believed that these n‐PAMs could aid in reducing the environmental impacts of oil spills.

Practical Applications: The phenoxy‐alkyl maleates gelators present in the MS show gelation ability in various edible oils at low minimum gelation concentration. These molecules also form efficient phase selective gelation with edible oils. Both oil and gelator can be recovered through vacuum distillation and gelator can be reused multiple times. Thus, all these advantages strongly point that out their bright future, in particular in edible oil spill recovery, could aid in reducing the environmental impacts from oil spills.

Herein, the synthesized phenoxy alkyl maleate derivatives are reported as separators of edible oil from the oil‐water biphasic mixture. Initially, the gelator is solubilized in the biphasic mixture by heating. Later, gelation ability is observed by tube inversion method. From the phase selective gel, oil and gelator are separated through a distillation method. The recovered gelator can be reused in oil recovery process. This application may find use in oil recovery from waste plant of edible oil industries.
Air inside a dishwasher: Odour characterization and strategy for measuring odour changes
Authors: Ontañón Ignacio , Téllez Juan , Ferreira Vicente , Escudero Ana
Published: December 2018

The use of home appliances can cause various problems. In the case of dishwashers, the generation of bad odours is one of the most serious problems for users. Odours inside dishwashers are mainly caused by the presence of food residues. A study using gas chromatography‐olfactometry (GC‐O has been carried out to establish how different food residues produce differences in the odours found in dishwashers. A total of 49 compounds were identified in the 109 odour zones detected. Dimethyl trisulfide and methanethiol/dimethyl sulfide were the most significant compounds in most of the situations studied. Some of these compounds were selected to generate an ‘odorous atmosphere’ that was subjected to chemical and sensory analysis. Treatments for the elimination of odours, designed to alter the odours, were applied to this atmosphere before performing chemical (GC‐MS) and sensory analyses. The sensory analysis was carried out to determine the intensity and hedonic tone of the odorous atmosphere. Differences between treatments were found.
Neuroinflammation in the central nervous system: Symphony of glial cells
Authors: Yang Qiao‐qiao , Zhou Jia‐wei
Published: December 2018

Neuroinflammation in the central nervous system (CNS) is an important subject of neuroimmunological research. Emerging evidence suggests that neuroinflammation is a key player in various neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases and CNS injury. Neuroinflammation is a complex and well‐orchestrated process by various groups of glial cells in CNS and peripheral immune cells. The cross‐talks between various groups of glial cells in CNS neuroinflammation is an extremely complex and dynamic process which resembles a well‐orchestrated symphony. However, the understanding of how glial cells interact with each other to shape the distinctive immune responses of the CNS remains limited. In this review, we will discuss the joint actions of glial cells in three phases of neuroinflammation, including initiation, progression, and prognosis, the three movements of the symphony, as the role of each type of glial cells in neuroinflammation depends on the nature of inflammatory cues and specific course of diseases. This perspective of glial cells in neuroinflammation might provide helpful clues to the development of the early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention of the various CNS diseases.
Astrocyte‐targeted IL‐10 production decreases proliferation and induces a downregulation of activated microglia/macrophages after PPT
Authors: Recasens Mireia , Shrivastava Kalpana , Almolda Beatriz , González Berta , Castellano Bernardo
Published: December 2018

When central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis is altered, microglial cells become rapidly activated, proliferate and release a broad range of molecules. Among the plethora of molecules involved in the regulation of microglial activation, cytokines are considered crucial. Although production of interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) has been demonstrated after different types of CNS injuries and associated with protective functions, the specific role played by IL‐10 modulating microglial cells remains unclear. Hence, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of transgenic astrocyte IL‐10 production on microglial activation associated with axonal anterograde degeneration. To address it, the hippocampal area subjected to perforant pathway transection (PPT) was analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC), flow cytometry and protein microarray in transgenic (GFAP‐IL10Tg) mice and their corresponding wild types (WT) littermates. Our results demonstrated increased microglial/macrophages density in nonlesioned and PPT‐lesioned GFAP‐IL10Tg animals when compared with nonlesioned and lesioned WT, respectively. This increase was not due to proliferation, as GFAP‐IL10Tg mice showed a reduced proliferation of microglial cells, but was related to an increased population of CD11b+/CD45high monocyte/macrophages. Despite this higher number, the microglia/macrophage population in transgenic animals displayed a downregulated phenotype characterized by lower MHCII, ICOSL, and CD11c. Moreover, a sustained T‐cell infiltration was found in transgenic animals. We strongly suggest these modifications must be associated with indirect effects derived from the influence of IL‐10 on astrocytes and/or neurons, which express IL‐10R. We finally suggested that TGF‐β produced by astrocytes, along with IL‐2 and CXCL10 might be crucial molecules mediating the effects of transgenic IL‐10.
miR‐223 promotes regenerative myeloid cell phenotype and function in the demyelinated central nervous system
Authors: Galloway Dylan A. , Blandford Stephanie N. , Berry Tangyne , Williams John B. , Stefanelli Mark , Ploughman Michelle , Moore Craig S.
Published: December 2018

In the injured central nervous system, myeloid cells, including macrophages and microglia, are key contributors to both myelin injury and repair. This immense plasticity emphasizes the need to further understand the precise molecular mechanisms that contribute to the dynamic regulation of myeloid cell polarization and function. Herein, we demonstrate that miR‐223 is upregulated in multiple sclerosis (MS) patient monocytes and the alternatively‐activated and tissue‐regenerating M2‐polarized human macrophages and microglia. Using miR‐223 knock‐out mice, we observed that miR‐223 is dispensable for maximal pro‐inflammatory responses, but is required for efficient M2‐associated phenotype and function, including phagocytosis. Using the lysolecithin animal model, we further demonstrate that miR‐223 is required to efficiently clear myelin debris and promote remyelination. These results suggest miR‐223 constrains neuroinflammation while also promoting repair, a finding of important pathophysiological relevance to MS as well as other neurodegenerative diseases.
A systematic review of validated tools assessing functional and aesthetic outcomes following fibula free flap reconstruction of the mandible
Authors: Petrovic Ivana , Panchal Hina , De Souza Franca Paula Demetrio , Hernandez Marisol , McCarthy Colleen C. , Shah Jatin P.
Published: December 2018

Background

Segmental mandibulectomy impairs health‐related quality of life (QoL), by altering speech, mastication, swallowing, and facial aesthetics. Fibula free flap (FFF) used for mandible reconstruction is known to improve outcomes; however, minimal information exists in the literature regarding patient‐reported outcomes. We aim to assess how current studies evaluate patient perception following segmental mandibulectomy and FFF mandible reconstruction.

Methods

Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines, a search was conducted for publications involving FFF mandible reconstruction from 2005 to 2017 using PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PsychInfo.

Results

Of 2212 articles identified initially, only 7 studies were deemed suitable. Six studies used the University of Washington Quality of Life questionnaire, 3 Oral Health Impact Profile, and 1 used European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Head and Neck (EORTC‐H&N35).

Conclusions

There is a paucity of information in published reports on QoL outcomes following mandible reconstruction with FFF. In the era of patient‐centered health care, observations warrant attention from researchers for physician‐assessed patient‐reported measures to factor in QoL expectation during surgical decision‐making about the choice of reconstruction.
High‐dose versus standard‐dose radiation therapy for cervical esophageal cancer: Retrospective single‐institution study
Authors: Kim Tae Hyung , Lee Ik Jae , Kim Ji‐Hyun , Lee Chang Geol , Lee Yong Chan , Kim Jun Won
Published: December 2018

Background

To evaluate the role of definitive radiotherapy using higher‐than‐standard‐dose radiation of 50 Gy for carcinoma of the cervical esophagus (CCE).

Methods

We reviewed 79 patients with stage I‐III CCE, treated between 2000 and 2012. Patients received 5‐fluorouracil/cisplatin‐based chemotherapy concurrently and were divided into high‐dose (≥59.4 Gy, n = 44) and standard‐dose (<59.4 Gy, n = 35) groups.

Results

The median follow‐up was 35 months for surviving patients. The high‐dose group had significantly better 3‐year local (90.0% vs 60.4%, P = .001) and locoregional (70.4% vs 45.3%, P = .04) control. Progression‐free (45.4% vs 37.5%, P = .32) and overall (58.4% vs 49.1%, P = .69) survival rates were not different. High‐dose radiation was an independent prognostic factor for locoregional control (P = .04). No differences in late toxicities (esophageal stenosis or tracheoesophageal fistula) were observed.

Conclusion

High‐dose radiation for CCE improves local and locoregional control, without increasing severe toxicities.
Local immune parameters as potential predictive markers in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients receiving induction chemotherapy and cetuximab
Authors: Ladányi Andrea , Kapuvári Bence , Papp Eszter , Tóth Erika , Lövey József , Horváth Katalin , Gődény Mária , Remenár Éva
Published: December 2018

Background

The aim of this study was to determine whether tumor‐associated immune cells may predict response to therapy and disease outcome in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients receiving induction chemotherapy and cetuximab.

Methods

Paraffin‐embedded pretreatment biopsy samples from 45 patients with stage III‐IV resectable HNSCC were investigated retrospectively by immunohistochemistry for density of different immune cell types based on expression of CD8, FOXP3, CD134, CD137, PD‐1, CD20, NKp46, dendritic cell lysosomal‐associated membrane protein (DC‐LAMP), CD16, CD68, and myeloperoxidase. Results were analyzed for possible correlations with clinicopathologic parameters, response to therapy, and survival.

Results

Of the immune cell types studied, we found significant association with response to induction chemotherapy only in the case of DC‐LAMP+ mature dendritic cells and PD‐1+ lymphocytes; density of DC‐LAMP+ cells also correlated with progression‐free survival.

Conclusion

DC‐LAMP+ mature dendritic cells and PD‐1+ cells may be implicated in response to induction chemotherapy and cetuximab in HNSCC patients.
Treatment with once‐weekly alendronate oral jelly compared with once‐weekly alendronate oral tablet for Japanese patients with primary osteoporosis: An open‐label, prospective, observational study
Authors: Okimoto Nobukazu , Uemura Yukari , Yoshioka Toru , Arita Shinobu , Tsurukami Hiroshi , Otomo Hajime , Nishida Satoshi , Ogawa Takayuki , Hirao Ken , Ikeda Satoshi , Matsumoto Hidehiro , Toten Yoriko , Katae Yuji , Okazaki Yuichi , Nakagawa Tsuyoshi , Sakai Akinori
Published: December 2018

Background and aims

Clinical data regarding alendronate jelly are limited. We compared the efficacy and safety of once‐weekly alendronate oral jelly with once‐weekly alendronate tablet formulations in the context of primary osteoporosis.

Methods

In this 6‐month, open‐label, prospective, observational study, Japanese patients aged ≥60 years with primary osteoporosis were included from 14 primary care centres in Japan. The effects of once‐weekly alendronate oral jelly and tablet formulations on bone mineral density (BMD), bone turnover markers, and quality of life related to gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed at baseline and 6 months. Treatment was allocated by patient preference. This potentially confounding factor was adjusted for statistically.

Results

In total, 170 patients were enrolled (jelly, n = 97; tablet, n = 73). Mean percent changes in radius, lumbar spine, femoral neck, and hip BMD were similar in both treatment groups at 6 months. Both formulations decreased tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP‐5b) and procollagen 1 N‐terminal peptide (P1NP) between baseline and 6 months (by about 50% and 60%, respectively); no significant differences in mean changes were noted in these markers between groups. At 6 months, no significant differences were noted in visual analogue scale or EuroQOL five‐dimension questionnaire scores between groups. The jelly group had significantly lower scores than the tablet group in the Izumo scale domains of heartburn (−0.81, P = 0.0040), epigastralgia (−0.94, P = 0.0003), and epigastric fullness (−0.49, P = 0.044). During treatment, more patients discontinued for upper gastrointestinal symptoms in the tablet group (n = 4) than the jelly group (n = 1).

Conclusions

Once‐weekly alendronate oral jelly 35 mg may be a suitable alternative therapeutic agent for primary osteoporosis in Japan.
MHD boundary layer bionanoconvective non‐Newtonian flow past a needle with Stefan blowing
Authors: Amirsom N. A. , Uddin Mohammed Jashim , Ismail Ahmad Izani md
Published: December 2018

The purpose of the article is to present a transport model for magnetohydrodynamics‐forced convective non‐Newtonian boundary flow from a thin needle in a nanofluid in the presence of microorganisms and Stefan blowing. The governing equations are reduced to ordinary differential equations with the help of similarity transformations and then numerically solved by using the Matlab bvp4c function. The effect of various emerging parameters on the flow field, heat, mass, and density of motile microorganisms transfer was computed and studied. It was found that some of the parameters have an important effect on the boundary layer thickness. Justification with earlier simpler model in the absence of magnetic field is included. The model finds applications in various transdermal delivery system, biomedical electromagnetic treatments and to design new medical devices for cell delivery to the central nervous system.
Effects of inhibition of hepatic sulfotransferase activity on renal genotoxicity induced by lucidin‐3‐O‐primeveroside
Authors: Ishii Yuji , Kijima Aki , Takasu Shinji , Ogawa Kumiko , Umemura Takashi
Published: December 2018

Sulfotransferase 1A (SULT1A) expression is lower in the liver of humans than that of rodents. Therefore, species differences should be taken into consideration when assessing the risk of rodent hepatocarcinogens metabolically activated by SULT1A in humans. Although some renal carcinogens require SULT1A‐mediated activation, it is unclear how SULT1A activity in the liver affects renal carcinogens. To explore the effects of SULT1A activity in the liver on genotoxicity induced by SULT1A‐activated renal carcinogens, B6C3F1 mice or gpt delta mice of the same strain background were given lucidin‐3‐O‐primeveroside (LuP), a hepatic and renal carcinogen of rodents, for 4 or 13 weeks, respectively, and pentachlorophenol (PCP) as a liver‐specific SULT inhibitor, was given from 1 week before LuP treatment to the end of the experiment. A 4 week exposure of LuP induced lucidin‐specific DNA adduct formation. The suppression of Sult1a expression was observed only in the liver but not in the kidneys of PCP‐treated mice, but co‐administration of PCP suppressed LuP‐induced DNA adduct formation in both organs. Thirteen‐week exposure of LuP increased mutation frequencies and cotreatment with PCP suppressed these increases in both organs. Given that intact levels of SULT activity in the liver were much higher than in the kidneys of rodents, SULT1A may predominantly activate LuP in the liver, consequently leading to genotoxicity not only in the liver but also in the kidney. Thus, species differences should be considered in human risk assessment of renal carcinogens activated by SULT1A as in the case of the corresponding liver carcinogens.
Three‐dimensional analysis reveals altered chromatin interaction by enhancer inhibitors harbors TCF7L2‐regulated cancer gene signature
Authors: Gerrard Diana L. , Wang Yao , Gaddis Malaina , Zhou Yufan , Wang Junbai , Witt Heather , Lin Shili , Farnham Peggy J. , Jin Victor X. , Frietze Seth E.
Published: December 2018

Distal regulatory elements influence the activity of gene promoters through chromatin looping. Chromosome conformation capture (3C) methods permit identification of chromatin contacts across different regions of the genome. However, due to limitations in the resolution of these methods, the detection of functional chromatin interactions remains a challenge. In the current study, we employ an integrated approach to define and characterize the functional chromatin contacts of human pancreatic cancer cells. We applied tethered chromatin capture to define classes of chromatin domains on a genome‐wide scale. We identified three types of structural domains (topologically associated, boundary, and gap) and investigated the functional relationships of these domains with respect to chromatin state and gene expression. We uncovered six distinct sub‐domains associated with epigenetic states. Interestingly, specific epigenetically active domains are sensitive to treatment with histone acetyltransferase (HAT) inhibitors and decrease in H3K27 acetylation levels. To examine whether the subdomains that change upon drug treatment are functionally linked to transcription factor regulation, we compared TCF7L2 chromatin binding and gene regulation to HAT inhibition. We identified a subset of coding RNA genes that together can stratify pancreatic cancer patients into distinct survival groups. Overall, this study describes a process to evaluate the functional features of chromosome architecture and reveals the impact of epigenetic inhibitors on chromosome architecture and identifies genes that may provide insight into disease outcome.
β‐Sitosterol improves experimental colitis in mice with a target against pathogenic bacteria
Authors: Ding Kang , Tan Yan‐Yan , Ding Yang , Fang Yuan , Yang Xu , Fang Jian , Xu Da‐Chao , Zhang Hui , Lu Wei , Li Meng , Huang Shi‐Cai , Cai Meng‐Ling , Song Yan , Ding Yi‐Jiang , Zhang Su‐Min
Published: December 2018

In this article, we aim to examine the novel effects of β‐sitosterol on murine experimental colitis. β‐Sitosterol significantly reduces the weight loss, colon length, and alleviated microscopic appearances of colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium. This compound also decreases the levels of TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐1β in intestinal tissue of mice with experimental colitis in a concentration‐dependent manner. β‐Sitosterol treatment to intestinal epithelial cells significantly increases expression of antimicrobial peptides and reduces survival of intracellular Salmonella typhimurium. These results showed the multiple effects of β‐sitosterol against pathogenic bacteria for a novel approach to the treatment of colonic inflammation.
Curcumin: A new candidate for retinal disease therapy?
Authors: Farajipour Hasan , Rahimian Susan , Taghizadeh Mohsen
Published: December 2018

The retina is the neural portion and light‐sensitive layer of the eye, which has been observed in most of the vertebrates. The retina is composed of light‐sensitive cells that absorb light and convert it into neural signals. These signals are sent to the brain for visual recognition. It has been shown that many pathogenesis conditions, including inﬂammation, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, and imbalanced histone modiﬁcations in the retina are associated with initiation and progression of retinal diseases (ie, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age‐related macular degeneration). Currently available treatments include laser surgery, freezing, stem‐cell therapy, shrinking abnormal blood vessels. It has some limitations, such as invasive methods, high costs, and many side effects. Hence, finding a new therapeutic platform for stopping or slowing of the disease progression is required. Curcumin is a natural product, which is associated with a wide range of properties, such as antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antiangiogenic, and antitumor activates. It exerts therapeutic effects via activation/inhibition cellular and molecular targets involved in various diseases, such as retinal diseases. Increasing evidence revealed that curcumin can be used as a therapeutic option in the treatment of different retinal diseases. Here, we summarized various clinical and preclinical studies that used curcumin as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of retinal disorders.
Mesenchymal stem cells facilitate cardiac differentiation in Sox2‐expressing cardiac C‐kit cells in coculture
Authors: Leong Yin Yee , Ng Wai Hoe , Umar Fuaad Mimi Zulaikha , Ng Chin Theng , Ramasamy Rajesh , Lim Vuanghao , Yong Yoke Keong , Tan Jun Jie
Published: December 2018

Stem cell therapy offers hope to reconstitute injured myocardium and salvage heart from failing. A recent approach using combinations of derived Cardiac‐derived c‐kit expressing cells (CCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in transplantation improved infarcted hearts with a greater functional outcome, but the effects of MSCs on CCs remain to be elucidated. We used a novel two‐step protocol to clonogenically amplify colony forming c‐kit expressing cells from 4‐ to 6‐week‐old C57BL/6N mice. This method yielded highly proliferative and clonogenic CCs with an average population doubling time of 17.2 ± 0.2, of which 80% were at the G1 phase. We identified two distinctly different CC populations based on its
Sox2 expression, which was found to inversely related to their
nkx2.5 and
gata4 expression. To study CCs after MSC coculture, we developed micron‐sized particles of iron oxide‐based magnetic reisolation method to separate CCs from MSCs for subsequent analysis. Through validation using the sex and species mismatch CC‐MSC coculture method, we confirmed that the purity of the reisolated cells was greater than 85%. In coculture experiment, we found that MSCs prominently enhanced
Ctni and
Mef2c expressions in
Sox2
pos CCs after the induction of cardiac differentiation, and the level was higher than that of conditioned medium
Sox2
pos CCs. However, these effects were not found in
Sox2
neg CCs. Immunofluorescence labeling confirmed the presence of cardiac‐like cells within
Sox2
pos CCs after differentiation, identified by its cardiac troponin I and α‐sarcomeric actinin expressions. In conclusion, this study shows that MSCs enhance CC differentiation toward cardiac myocytes. This enhancement is dependent on CC stemness state, which is determined by
Sox2 expression.
TIGD1, a gene of unknown function, involves cell‐cycle progression and correlates with poor prognosis in human cancer
Authors: Yin Li , Yan Jia , Wang Yuanyuan , Sun Qinghui
Published: December 2018

Background

Trigger transposable element–derived 1 (TIGD1), a human species–specific gene, was identified as a cell cycle–related differentially expressed gene during the formation of liver cancer. As far as we know, there are no reports about the function of TIGD1. This study aimed to explore the expression of TIGD1 in human cancers and establish whether elevated TIGD1 can be used as a prognostic cancer biomarker and its potential role in cancer.

Methods

Molecular profiling of TIGD1 in human cancers was assessed using a series of databases, including Oncomine, COSMIC, Kaplan‐Meier, UCSC, and cBioPortal.

Results

We found that TIGD1 overexpressed in colorectal, gastric, liver, lung, and pancreatic cancers than their normal tissues and its expression might be negatively related with the prognosis. The TIGD1 coexpression genes were obtained from cBioPortal and analyzed using ClueGO plugin in Cytoscape to predict the function of TIGD1.

Conclusions

In summary, the elevated TIGD1 expression is coupled with a malignant survival rate in several cancers. It may play its role by regulating cell‐cycle progression. These findings provide fresh insight into our understanding of TEs in cancers. As a previously unreported gene, future research is required to validate our findings and illuminate the molecular mechanisms. In conclusion, we systemically analyze the expression, prognostic value, and likely role of TIGD1, the unknown function gene, in cancer. Our finding provides evidence that TIGD1 involve in the cell cycle. These findings provide fresh insight into our understanding of TEs in cancers. Next, the detailed mechanism of TIGD1 needs to be studied in the future.
1α, 25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3 alters ectonucleotidase expression and activity in human cutaneous melanoma cells
Authors: Bagatini Margarete Dulce , Bertolin Kalyne , Bridi Alessandra , Pelinson Luana Paula , da Silva Rosa Bonadiman Beatriz , Pillat Michele Mainardi , Gonçalves Paulo Bayard Dias , Ulrich Henning , Schetinger Maria Rosa Chitolina , Morsch Vera Maria
Published: December 2018

Purpose

We hypothesized that vitamin D decreases rates of adenosine formation in human cutaneous melanoma cells through the inhibition of extracellular adenosine 5′‐triphosphate breakdown, thereby affecting tumor cell viability. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore the mechanisms of action of 1α, 25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) on the activity and expression of ectonucleotidases in cutaneous melanoma cells.

Methods

A human melanoma cell line, SK‐Mel‐28, was treated with 1 to 50 nM of the active vitamin D metabolite (1,25(OH)2D3) over 24 hours, followed by determination of NTPDase1/CD39 and ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase/CD73 activity and expression rates of the purinergic system‐related NTPDASE1, NT5E and adenosine deaminase and vitamin D receptor. An 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide assay was used to evaluate cellular viability.

Results

1,25(OH)2D3 decreased adenosine monophosphate hydrolysis via ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase/CD73 and expression of CD73, but did not change NTPDase1/CD39 activity; it increased the CD39 expression. We also observed an increase of cell viability at 1 nM, but this viability decreased as the concentrations of vitamin D active metabolite increased to 50 nM. There were no differences in gene expression levels.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, we showed for the first time a mechanism of control of adenosine production via modulation of the purinergic system in cutaneous melanoma cells treated with the active metabolite of vitamin D. This study provides original information regarding mechanisms, in which vitamin D plays a key role in preventing tumor progression in human melanoma cells.
Hesperetin suppresses RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis and ameliorates lipopolysaccharide‐induced bone loss
Authors: Liu Hui , Dong Yonghui , Gao Yutong , Zhao Liming , Cai Cong , Qi Dahu , Zhu Meipeng , Zhao Libo , Liu Changyu , Guo Fengjing , Xiao Jun , Huang Hui
Published: December 2018

Destructive bone diseases caused by osteolysis are increasing in incidence. They are characterized by an excessive imbalance of osteoclast formation and activation. During osteolysis, the activation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways are triggered by receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL), inflammatory factors, and oxidative stress. Previous studies have indicated that the common flavanone glycoside compound hesperetin exhibits anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activity by inhibition of NF‐κB and MAPK signaling pathways. However, the direct relationship between hesperetin and osteolysis remain unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effects of hesperetin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced osteoporosis and elucidated the related mechanisms. Hesperetin effectively suppressed RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis, osteoclastic bone resorption, and F‐actin ring formation in a dose‐dependent manner. It also significantly suppressed the expression of osteoclast‐specific markers including tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase, matrix metalloproteinase‐9, cathepsin K, c‐Fos, and nuclear factor of activated T‐cells cytoplasmic 1. Furthermore, it inhibited osteoclastogenesis by inhibiting activation of NF‐κB and MAPK signaling, scavenging reactive oxygen species, and activating the nuclear factor E2 p45‐related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 (Nrf2/HO‐1) signaling pathway. Consistent with in vitro results, hesperetin effectively ameliorated LPS‐induced bone loss, reduced osteoclast numbers, and decreased the RANKL/OPG ratio in vivo. As such, our results suggest that hesperetin may be a great candidate for developing a novel drug for destructive bone diseases such as periodontal disease, tumor bone metastasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoporosis.
Exclusive enteral nutrition in children with inflammatory bowel disease: Physician perspectives and practice
Authors: Ho Shaun S C , Day Andrew S
Published: December 2018

Background and Aim

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is recognized internationally as the first line of treatment for children with active Crohn's disease (CD). A survey conducted a decade ago demonstrated that 40% of Australian pediatric gastroenterologists did not think EEN to be an appropriate treatment for CD. This study aimed to explore the current attitudes of Australian and New Zealand (NZ) pediatric gastroenterologists toward the use of EEN in children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Methods

All practicing pediatric gastroenterologists in Australia and NZ were invited via an existing email network to complete an anonymous online questionnaire.

Results

The questionnaire was completed by 37 respondents (54% response rate), 31 from Australia and 6 from NZ. All respondents felt that EEN definitely or probably has a role in inducing remission for children with newly diagnosed CD. Australian gastroenterologists were more likely to use EEN for relapsed CD or IBD‐unclassified than NZ doctors (P < 0.05). Adherence was reported to be the greatest disadvantage of EEN. Dietitians were believed to play the most crucial role in EEN administration. Variations in EEN protocols included the use of flavorings or fluids during EEN and different patterns of food reintroduction.

Conclusions

These Australia and NZ pediatric gastroenterologists felt that EEN plays an important role in the induction of remission in children with newly diagnosed CD. However, the perceived role of EEN use in other types of IBD varied. EEN protocols varied widely between centers. Attitudes toward the roles of EEN have altered greatly across Australasia over the last decade.
Changing from two‐ to one‐operator colonoscopy insertion technique is feasible with similar quality outcomes
Authors: Yen Hsu‐Heng , Hsu Yu‐Chun
Published: December 2018

Background and Aim

Colonoscopy can be performed with two‐operator (2OP) or one‐operator (1OP) methods. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility and colonoscopy quality outcomes for the two different colonoscopy insertion techniques.

Methods

One colonoscopist from Changhua Christian Hospital learned and changed the colonoscopy insertion technique from 2OP to 1OP during 2013. Real‐life results of screening colonoscopies performed by this colonoscopist between these two insertion techniques (year 2012: 2OP vs year 2014: 1OP) were retrospectively reviewed and compared.

Results

In total, 219 screening colonoscopies were reviewed (2OP group, n = 103 vs 1OP group, n = 116). No differences were noted between both groups in terms of patient age, gender, weight, and height. The overall cecum intubation was 98.2%, adenoma detection rate (ADR) was 29.7%, and colonoscopy withdrawal time was 518.58 ± 972.04 s. On comparing colonoscopy quality outcomes between both methods, no differences were observed in cecal intubation rates (2OP vs 1OP: 100 vs 96.6%, P = 0.1626), ADR (28 vs 31%, P = 0.7401), and colonoscopy withdrawal time (454.88 ± 178.21 vs 576.92 ± 1325.01 s, P = 0.355). However, the 1OP group demonstrated significantly shorter colonoscopy insertion time (2OP vs 1OP: 298.28 ± 202.95 vs 216.21 ± 121.99 s, P = 0.003).

Conclusion

Colonoscopy quality outcomes were not impaired when one endoscopist changed the colonoscopy practice pattern from 2OP to 1OP. However, 1OP significantly shortened the colonoscopy insertion time.