bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrograde branched extension limb assembling stent of pararenal abdominal aortic aneurysm: A longitudinal hemodynamic analysis for stent graft migration
Authors: Mei Yuqian , Xu Huanming , Ma Wei , Li Zhenfeng , Yang Rui , Yuan Hai , Peng Yan , Wu Muyang , Chen Zhangtao , Guo Wei , Gao Tianxin , Xiong Jiang , Chen Duanduan
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Pararenal abdominal aortic aneurysms (PRAAAs) are a life‐threatening disease, and hemodynamic analysis may provide greater insight into the effectiveness and long‐term outcomes of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). However, the lack of patient‐specific boundary conditions on the periphery compromises the accuracy. Windkessel (WK) boundary conditions coupled to hemodynamic follow‐up models of a PRAAA patient, aims to provide insights into the link between hemodynamics and poor prognosis.

Method

One PRAAA patient underwent EVAR and reintervention after one branch of stent‐graft (SG) had migrated. Totally five computational follow‐up models were studied. Patient‐specific flow data acquired via ultrasound were used to define the boundary conditions in the ascending aorta and the following three branches. Coupled zero‐dimensional WK models representing the distal vasculature were used to define the outlet boundary conditions under the abdomen.

Results

Flow divisions of the main SG branches were 40.7% and 24.7%, respectively. Time‐averaged wall shear stress and oscillatory shear index (OSI) increased at the junction connected the SG branch and the stent leading to the right common iliac artery (RCIA) where the stent migrated. The OSI and relative residence time (RRT) value in superior mesenteric artery increased notably after the migration, the RRT continuously increased following the reintervention.

Conclusion

Unbalanced flow, resulting in locally high‐speed flow, high WSS and OSI might significantly affect stent stability. Results suggest that diameters and interconnection design of stents in complex cases should take the flow division into consideration and computational simulations might be considered as a tool for intervention protocol design.
Leaf Wax Lipid Extraction for Archaeological Applications
Authors: Patalano Robert , Zech Jana , Roberts Patrick
Published: August 2020

Plant wax lipid molecules, chiefly normal (n‐) alkanes and n‐alkanoic acids, are frequently used as proxies for understanding paleoenvironmental and paleoclimatic change. These are regularly analyzed from marine and lake sediments and even more frequently in archaeological contexts, enabling the reconstruction of past environments in direct association with records of past human behavior. Carbon and hydrogen isotope measurements of these compounds are used to trace plant type and water‐use efficiency, relative paleotemperature, precipitation, evapotranspiration of leaf and soil moisture, and other physiological and ecological parameters. Plant wax lipids have great potential for answering questions related to human‐environment interactions, being for the most part chemically inert and easily recoverable in terrestrial sediments, including those dating back millions of years. The growing use of this technique, and comparison of such data with other paleoenvironmental proxies such as pollen and phytolith analysis and soil carbonate and tooth enamel isotope records, make it essential to establish consistent, best‐practice protocols for extracting n‐alkanes and n‐alkanoic acids from archaeological sediments to provide comparable information for interpreting past climatic, ecosystem, and hydrological changes and their interaction with human societies. © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol 1: Total lipid extraction

Support Protocol 1: Weighing the total lipid extract

Support Protocol 2: Cleaning the PSE extraction cells

Alternate Protocol 1: Soxhlet total lipid extraction

Alternate Protocol 2: Ultrasonic total lipid extraction

Basic Protocol 2: Separation of lipids by aminopropyl column chromatography

Basic Protocol 3: Separation of lipids by silver‐nitrate‐infused silica gel column chromatography

Support Protocol 3: Preparation of silica gel infused with 10% silver nitrate

Basic Protocol 4: Methylation of n‐alkanoic acids

Basic Protocol 5: Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‐MS)

Basic Protocol 6: Gas chromatography isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC‐IRMS)
A Localized Aldara (5% Imiquimod)–Induced Psoriasiform Dermatitis Model in Mice Using Finn Chambers
Authors: Horváth Szabina , Kemény Ágnes , Pintér Erika , Gyulai Rolland
Published: August 2020

The expanding number of research studies utilizing the imiquimod‐induced psoriasiform dermatitis model attests to the usefulness of this procedure. Advantages of this model include rapid development of the skin response and cost‐effectiveness. A major limitation is that application of imiquimod cream over large areas of skin, as well as licking and ingestion of the cream, may lead to severe systemic inflammation, which can cause a general decline in health, splenomegaly, and death. In this protocol, Finn chambers are used to localize the imiquimod cream to a small area of the skin. This results in production of severe and reproducible psoriatic skin reactions with significantly less imiquimod, greatly reducing the possibility of untoward systemic effects. Moreover, having psoriasiform and control skin areas on the same mice decreases inter‐animal differences. The protocol can be readily adapted for other skin disease models involving topical application of test agents. This article also details functional measurements performed during assays, including skin thickness, blood perfusion, semiquantitative histopathological evaluation, determination of scaling score to monitor psoriatic symptoms, and collection of spleen and body weight data to identify systemic effects. © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol: Use of Finn chambers to induce psoriasiform skin reactions with imiquimod

Support Protocol 1: Measurement of double‐fold dorsal skin thickness

Support Protocol 2: Measurement of blood perfusion

Support Protocol 3: Determination of scaling score

Support Protocol 4: Semiquantitative histopathological scoring

Support Protocol 5: Assessment of systemic side effects in response to imiquimod application
Mechanisms of resistance of new wheat gene Dn10 in comparison with other Dn genes resistant to Russian wheat aphid
Authors: Puterka Gary J. , Xu Xiangyang , Li Genqiao , Carver Brett F. , Guo Peiguo
Published: August 2020

The Russian wheat aphid (RWA, Diuraphis noxia Kurdjumov) is a global pest of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) that became a significant problem to wheat and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) in the United States soon after it was detected in 1986. Russian wheat aphid‐resistant wheat varieties expressing the Dn4 gene were effective in managing the first biotype, RWA1, from 1995–2003 until a new biotype, RWA2, overcame this resistance in 2003. Currently, only three genes are useful in developing RWA2 resistance in wheat. A new gene, Dn10, was recently discovered that is resistant to RWA2. This study characterized the effects that RWA1 and RWA2 had on the damage (leaf chlorosis and leaf roll) and growth components (plant height and leaf number) of plants expressing RWA resistance genes Dn4, Dn7, Dn10, Dn2401, Dn626580, and Dn2414 and the susceptible ‘Yuma’ 22 d after infestation. All plant genotypes that were RWA resistant expressed strong resistance to leaf chlorosis and leaf roll after RWA1 feeding. Results were similar for RWA2 except for the Dn4 genotype, which was equally susceptible as Yuma. Plant height was reduced by 50% for susceptible Yuma and Dn626580 by RWA1 and RWA2 feeding. Plant height and leaf reduction from RWA2 feeding on the susceptible Dn4 genotype were also reduced by 50%, whereas Dn7, Dn10, and Dn2414 reductions were <23%. Dn10 exhibited strong resistance to RWA1 and RWA2 feeding damage comparable with Dn7 and Dn2414 and showed less reduction in plant height than Dn2401 and Dn626580, which makes it a potentially valuable gene for wheat breeding programs.
Novel sources of drought tolerance from landraces and wild sorghum relatives
Authors: Ochieng Grace , Ngugi Kahiu , Wamalwa Lydia N. , Manyasa Eric , Muchira Nicoleta , Nyamongo Desterio , Odeny Damaris A.
Published: August 2020

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench) is the fifth most important cereal crop worldwide and second after maize (Zea mays L.) in Kenya. It is an important food security crop in arid and semi‐arid lands, where its production potential is hampered by drought. Drought tolerance can be measured by a plant's ability to resist premature senescence, often described as stay‐green. This study was carried out with the objective of identifying novel stay‐green trait among wild and landrace genotypes of sorghum. Forty‐four sorghum genotypes that included 16 improved, nine landraces, and 17 wild relatives of sorghum alongside known stay‐green sources, B35 and E36‐1, were evaluated under well‐watered and water‐stressed conditions in an alpha‐lattice design of three replications. Data was collected on plant height (PHT), flag leaf area (FLA), panicle weight (PWT), 100‐seed weight (HSW), relative chlorophyll content (RCC), number of green leaves at maturity (GLAM), days to 50% flowering (DFL), and grain yield (YLD). Genetic diversity was determined using diversity arrays technology (DArT) sequencing and quality control (QC) markers were generated using a java script. Lodoka, a landrace, was the most drought‐tolerant genotype, recorded the highest numbers of RCC and GLAM, and outperformed B35 and E36‐1 in yield under water‐stress and well‐watered conditions. The RCC was highly correlated with GLAM (r = .71) and with yield‐related traits, HSW (r = .85), PWT (r = .82), and YLD (r = .78). All traits revealed high heritability (broad‐sense) ranging from 60.14 to 98.4% for RCC and DFL, respectively. These results confirm earlier reports that wild relatives and landraces are a good source of drought tolerance alleles.
Genetic analysis of stay‐green, yield, and agronomic traits in spring wheat
Authors: Cook J. P. , Acharya R. K. , Martin J. M. , Blake N. K. , Khan I. J. , Heo H.‐Y. , Kephart K. D. , Eckhoff J. , Talbert L. E. , Sherman J. D.
Published: August 2020

Hard red spring wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) grown in rainfed environments in the northern Great Plains of North America frequently encounter drought and heat stress during grain‐fill, thus reducing yield. Delayed leaf senescence after heading, known as the stay‐green trait, has been found to help spring wheat tolerate drought and heat stress during grain‐fill. To better understand how the stay‐green trait relates to expression of other agronomic traits, data was analyzed from a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from a ‘Vida’/MTHW0202 cross grown in rainfed and irrigated environments. The genetic architecture controlling traits measured in this study were also examined. Results found the stay‐green trait was significantly correlated to overall yield (P < .001,r = .37) in rain‐fed environments, but was not significantly correlated to yield (P = .26,r = .09) in irrigated environments. Three quantitative trait loci (QTL) located on chromosomes 2D, 4A, and 4D were associated with the stay‐green trait. The 4A stay‐green QTL, previously designatedQGfd.mst‐4A, was collocated with QTL for seed number per head, thousand kernel weight, and heading date. The 4D stay‐green QTL overlaps theRht‐D1plant height gene, and the allele prolonging the stay‐green period co‐segregates with the wild‐type (tall)Rht‐D1aallele. Results from this study provide a better understanding of the relationship between stay‐green and agronomic traits in rainfed vs. irrigated environments. Additionally, understanding the genetic architecture controlling stay‐green and agronomic traits will aid in selecting future drought‐tolerant spring wheat varieties.
Enhancing N2 Fixation Activity by Converting Ti3C2 MXenes Nanosheets to Nanoribbons
Authors: Wei Hua , Jiang Qian , Ampelli Claudio , Chen Shiming , Perathoner Siglinda , Liu Yuefeng , Centi Gabriele
Published: August 2020

Metal carbides M2C (MXenes) with two‐dimensional (2D) structure have been indicated as promising materials for N2 fixation, with the activity being related to edge planes. Here, it is instead demonstrated that the transformation from a 2D‐ (nanosheets) to a 3D‐type nanostructure (nanoribbons) leads to a significant enhancement of the N2 fixation activity due to the formation of exposed Ti−OH sites. A linear relationship is observed between ammonia formation rate and amount of oxygen on the surface of Ti3C2 MXene.
Transfer of metastatic traits via miR‐200c in extracellular vesicles derived from colorectal cancer stem cells is inhibited by atractylenolide I
Authors: Tang Dongxin , Xu Xiaofen , Ying Jialiang , Xie Tian , Cao Gang
Published: August 2020

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are important factors contributing to tumorigenesis. We examined whether CSCs isolated from colorectal cancer (CRC) cells possess metastatic properties that can be transferred to non‐CSCs via the delivery of miR‐200c enclosed in extracellular vesicles (EVs). The inhibitory effect of atractylenolide I (ATL‐1), a traditional Chinese medicinal compound, on miR‐200c activity and metastatic transfer was investigated. EVs were isolated from colorectal CSCs. The expression of miR‐200c was evaluated in CSCs and CSC‐derived EVs, and horizontal transfer of metastatic properties via EVs to non‐CSCs was investigated in terms of cell behavior and phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate 3‐kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling. CSCs isolated from metastatic CRC cells exhibited higher levels of miR‐200c than those in nonmetastatic CRC cells. Overexpression of miR‐200c in CSCs enhanced metastatic potential by promoting proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis, in turn leading to the release of EVs carrying an excess of miR‐200c. Non‐CSCs co‐cultured with miR‐200c‐containing EVs exhibited enhanced invasion and stemness maintenance associated with PI3K/Akt/mTOR activation, demonstrating successful metastatic transfer via EV delivery. Furthermore, ATL‐1 impaired the EV‐mediated transfer of metastatic properties by suppressing miR‐200c activity and disrupting EV uptake by non‐CSCs. EVs are critical signal transducers that facilitate intercellular communication and exchange of metastatic properties, which can be controlled by ATL‐1. The findings are useful in the development of microRNA‐based anticancer strategies by targeting EV‐mediated activity, especially using natural compounds.
Genetic modifiers of long‐term survival in sickle cell anemia
Authors: Wonkam Ambroise , Chimusa Emile R. , Mnika Khuthala , Pule Gift Dineo , Ngo Bitoungui Valentina Josiane , Mulder Nicola , Shriner Daniel , Rotimi Charles N. , Adeyemo Adebowale
Published: August 2020

Background

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a clinically heterogeneous, monogenic disorder. Medical care has less‐than‐optimal impact on clinical outcomes in SCA in Africa due to several factors, including patient accessibility, poor access to resources, and non‐availability of specific effective interventions for SCA.

Methods

Against this background, we investigated 192 African participants who underwent whole exome sequencing. Participants included 105 SCA patients spanning variable clinical expression: a “long survivor” group (age over 40 years), a “stroke” group (at least one episode of overt stroke), and a “random” group (patients younger than 40 years without overt cerebrovascular disease). Fifty‐eight ethnically matched homozygous hemoglobin A controls were also studied. Findings were validated in an independently recruited sample of 29 SCA patients. Statistical significance of the mutational burden of deleterious and loss‐of‐function variants per gene against a null model was estimated for each group, and gene‐set association tests were conducted to test differences between groups.

Results

In the “long survivor” group, deleterious/loss‐of‐function variants were enriched in genes including CLCN6 (a voltage‐dependent chloride channel for which rare deleterious variants have been associated with lower blood pressure) and OGHDL (important in arginine metabolism, which is a therapeutic target in SCA). In the “stroke” group, significant genes implicated were associated with increased activity of the blood coagulation cascade and increased complement activation, for example, SERPINC1, which encodes antithrombin. Oxidative stress and glutamate biosynthesis pathways were enriched in “long survivors” group. Published transcriptomic evidence provides functional support for the role of the identified pathways.

Conclusions

This study provides new gene sets that contribute to variability in clinical expression of SCA. Identified genes and pathways suggest new avenues for other interventions.
Survey shows graduates with disabilities as likely to be employed as peers
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: August 2020

Findings from a recent survey determined that recent college graduates with disabilities engaged in career preparation activities and transitioned to a career after graduation as successfully as their peers without disabilities. The 2020 Kessler Foundation National Employment and Disability Survey: Recent College Graduates recorded answers from more than 13,000 respondents aged 20 to 35 who had graduated with an associate degree or higher in the last five years. Roughly one half of that sample were respondents who indicated they had at least one disability.
Synthesis and Structure of the Silver(I) Complexes [Ag2(C4H6O4N)NO3]·H2O and Ag6(C6H6O6N)2 for the Formulation of Silver Inks in Nanoimprint Lithography
Authors: Kintzel Susann , Eckhardt Kai , Getzschmann Jürgen , Bon Volodymyr , Grothe Julia , Kaskel Stefan
Published: August 2020

Two new carboxylate silver(I) complexes, namely [Ag2(C4H6O4N)]NO3·H2O or [Ag2(HIDA)]NO3·H2O with IDA = iminodiacetate (1) and Ag6(C6H6O6N)2 or Ag6(NTA)2 with NTA = nitrilotriacetate (2) are synthesized and characterized by X‐ray powder diffraction, thermal analysis and infrared spectroscopy. Rietveld refinement reveals [Ag2(HIDA)]NO3·H2O to form a 2D coordination polymer while Ag6(NTA)2 forms a 3D network, both featuring short Ag(d10)–Ag(d10) contacts. The resulting complexes are suitable precursors for the printing of silver structures at low temperature, in particular for micro and submicrometer patterns obtained via nanoimprint lithography. The patterns reveal low specific resistivity (ρ ≈ 10–7 Ω m) and good transmittance (> 50 %) in the visible range enabling applications in optoelectronic devices.
A review on management of cardiovascular diseases by olive polyphenols
Authors: Mehmood Arshad , Usman Muhammad , Patil Prasanna , Zhao Lei , Wang Chengtao
Published: August 2020

Noncommunicable diseases have increasingly grown the cause of morbidities and mortalities worldwide. Among them, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to be the major contributor to deaths. CVDs are common in the urban community population due to the substandard living conditions, which have a significant impact on the healthcare system, and over 23 million human beings are anticipated to suffer from the CVDs before 2030. At the moment, CVD physicians are immediately advancing both primary and secondary prevention modalities in high‐risk populations. The cornerstone of CVD prevention is a healthy lifestyle that is more cost‐effective than the treatments after disease onset. In fact, in the present scenario, comprehensive research conducted on food plant components is potentially efficacious in reducing some highly prevalent CVD risk factors, such as hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, and atherosclerosis. Polyphenols of olive oil (OO), virgin olive oil (VOO), and extra virgin olive oil contribute an essential role for the management of CVDs. Olive oil induces cardioprotective effects due to the presence of a plethora of polyphenolic compounds, for example, oleuropein (OL), tyrosol, and hydroxytyrosol. The present study examines the bioavailability and absorption of major olive bioactive compounds, for instance, oleacein, oleocanthal, OL, and tyrosol. This review also elucidates the snobbish connection of olive polyphenols (OP) and the potential mechanism involved in combating various CVD results taken up from the in vitro and in vivo studies, such as animal and human model studies.
Activation of Liver X Receptor α Sensitizes Mice to T‐Cell Mediated Hepatitis
Authors: Gao Li , Li Bin , Wang Jingyuan , Shen Danhua , Yang Min , Sun Runzi , Tung Hung‐Chun , Xu Meishu , Ren Songrong , Zhang Min , Yang Da , Lu Binfeng , Wang Hui , Liu Yulan , Xie Wen
Published: August 2020

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an inflammatory disease of the liver. Liver X receptors (LXRs), including the α and β isoforms, are previously known for their anti‐inflammatory activities. The goal of this study is to determine whether and how LXR plays a role in AIH. LXRα gain‐of‐function and loss‐of‐function mouse models were used, in conjunction with the concanavalin A (ConA) model of T‐cell mediated hepatitis. We first showed that the hepatic expression of LXRα was decreased in the ConA model of hepatitis and in human patients with AIH. In the ConA model, we were surprised to find that activation of LXRα in the constitutively activated VP‐LXRα whole‐body knock‐in (LXRα‐KI) mice exacerbated ConA‐induced AIH, whereas the LXRα−/−
mice showed attenuated ConA‐induced AIH. Interestingly, hepatocyte‐specific activation of LXRα in the fatty acid binding protein–VP‐LXRα transgenic mice did not exacerbate ConA‐induced hepatitis. Mechanistically, the sensitizing effect of the LXRα‐KI allele was invariant natural killer T (iNKT)–cell dependent, because the sensitizing effect was abolished when the LXRα‐KI allele was bred into the NKT‐deficient CD1d−/−
background. In addition, LXRα‐enhanced ConA‐induced hepatitis was dependent on interferon gamma. In contrast, adoptive transfer of hepatic iNKT cells isolated from LXRα‐KI mice was sufficient to sensitize CD1d−/−
mice to ConA‐induced AIH. Conclusion: Activation of LXRα sensitizes mice to ConA‐induced AIH in iNKT and interferon gamma–dependent manner. Our results suggest that LXRα plays an important role in the development of AIH.
Investigation on the heat transfer characteristics of propylene glycol–water mixture in the shell side of a spiral‐wound heat exchanger
Authors: Gu Xiaoyong , Jiang Guohe , Sun Wenzhe , Wo Yang , Zou Xiangyi
Published: August 2020

The heat transfer characteristics of propylene glycol–water (PG–W) mixture (10%, 20%, and 30% propylene glycol) on the shell side of a spiral‐wound heat exchanger (SWHE) were investigated experimentally. Among the SWHE selected, there are 18 twined tubes with a diameter of 8 mm. PG–W mixture is on the shell side and water is on the tube side. The results show that the heat transfer coefficient of PG–W mixture flowing downwards is higher than upwards under countercurrent conditions. The heat transfer coefficient decreases with the increasing of concentration of PG–W mixture. When the inclination angle of the SWHE is 90°, the heat transfer coefficient of PG–W mixture is the largest; and when the inclination angle is less than 90°, the heat transfer coefficient decreases with the decrease of inclination angle. The inclination angle has a great effect on the heat transfer coefficient at a high concentration. The fitting correlation equations between Nu, Re, Pr, and inclination angles of SWHE are established.
Effects of foreign currency debt on investment of the firms in emerging economy
Authors: Pradhan Ashis Kumar , Hiremath Gourishankar S.
Published: August 2020

In this study, we examine the effect of external commercial borrowings on investment of the firms in the wake of currency depreciation by drawing the firm‐level data from India. Despite steep growth in dollar debt and its critical implications for firms and macroeconomic stability, the issue was not explored before. This article attempt to fills this gap and contribute to the literature on dollar debt and open economy macroeconomics. We estimate the panel regression to quantify the balance sheet and competitiveness effects. We show that currency depreciation does not adversely affect the investment of those firms that borrow in foreign currency. The findings of the study imply that the gradualist approach to liberalization and prudential policy measures laid by regulatory bodies were effective. We also find that firms that incur dollar debt do not possess adequate natural hedge against exchange rate volatility. This finding calls for the mandatory hedging by firms to immune the economy from the contagion effect. The development of offshore derivatives markets is indispensable for such hedging. The findings also call for the availability of easy and cheaper domestic credit to the corporate sector to lessen the over‐reliance on external commercial borrowings.
Identifying structural breaks and growth regimes in middle eastern economies
Authors: Malik Mushtaq Ahmad , Masood Tariq , Ozturk Ilhan
Published: August 2020

This study is an attempt to empirically determine structural breaks in economic growth of selected Middle Eastern countries. We combined the statistical approach with a subjective approach to identify break points in the growth process during the period 1970–2016. Thereby, we try to classify breaks into up‐breaks and down‐breaks resulting into different regimes ranging from stagnation to strong growth. In a sample of 17 countries examined, 15 countries exhibited significant breaks in trend function of growth process as per the fit and filter approach. We found total 41 plausible breaks – 19 up breaks and 22 down breaks. Moreover, the spatial distribution of breaks shows that over 68% of the breaks are reported from oil‐rich countries while as 31% from non‐oil. The paper highlights the key point that growth performance of the Middle Eastern countries is very volatile and gambles in the alternating cycles of collapse, stagnation, moderate, rapid and strong growth.
Bi‐stability of the master gene regulatory network of the common dendritic precursor cell: Implications for cell differentiation
Authors: De Nayan , Nandi Mintu , Banik Suman , Roy Siddhartha
Published: August 2020

In cell lineage commitment decisions, a gene regulatory network (GRN) consisting of a limited number of transcription factors forms the regulatory pivot. Myeloid lineage dendritic cells or DCs are specialized cells having the antigen‐presenting ability and are of immense importance in immune surveillance. In this report, we analyze the GRN that governs the lineage commitment of Common DC Progenitor (CDP) cells to conventional dendritic cells (cDC) and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC). We have analyzed the quantitative behavior of the master regulatory circuit of CDP that governs the lineage commitment. Simulations showed that the GRN displays a bi‐stable behavior within a range of parameter values. Several transcription factors, PU.1, IRF8, Flt3, and Stat3, whose concentrations vary significantly in the two steady states, appear to be the key players. We hypothesize that the two stable steady states are precursors of cDC and pDC, and the variation of concentration of these key transcription factors in the two states may be responsible for early events in lineage commitment.
Type I Angiotensin II Receptor Blockade Reduces Uremia-Induced Deterioration of Bone Material Properties
Authors: Wakamatsu Takuya , Iwasaki Yoshiko , Yamamoto Suguru , Matsuo Koji , Goto Shin , Narita Ichiei , Kazama Junichiro J , Tanaka Kennichi , Ito Akemi , Ozasa Ryosuke , Nakano Takayoshi , Miyakoshi Chisato , Onishi Yoshihiro , Fukuma Shingo , Fukuhara Shunichi , Yamato Hideyuki , Fukagawa Masafumi , Akizawa Tadao
Published: August 2020

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with a high incidence of fractures. However, the pathophysiology of this disease is not fully understood, and limited therapeutic interventions are available. This study aimed to determine the impact of type 1 angiotensin II receptor blockade (AT-1RB) on preventing CKD-related fragility fractures and elucidate its pharmacological mechanisms. AT-1RB use was associated with a lower risk of hospitalization due to fractures in 3276 patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. In nephrectomized rats, administration of olmesartan suppressed osteocyte apoptosis, skeletal pentosidine accumulation, and apatite disorientation, and partially inhibited the progression of the bone elastic mechanical properties, while the bone mass was unchanged. Olmesartan suppressed angiotensin II-dependent oxidation stress and apoptosis in primary cultured osteocytes in vitro. In conclusion, angiotensin II-dependent intraskeletal oxidation stress deteriorated the bone elastic mechanical properties by promoting osteocyte apoptosis and pentosidine accumulation. Thus, AT-1RB contributes to the underlying pathogenesis of abnormal bone quality in the setting of CKD, possibly by oxidative stress. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Fabrication of cubic In2O3/Bi2WO6 and study of its photocatalytic performance in removal of florfenicol antibiotic from aqueous media: Experimental and molecular dynamic simulation
Authors: Karim Dizani Sara , Torkian Leila , Khodadadi Zahra , Fazaeli Reza , Safa Saeed
Published: August 2020

In this study, In2O3, Bi2WO6, and cubic heterojunction In2O3/Bi2WO6 were synthesized and characterized by several techniques. Their photocatalytic properties in removal of florfenicol (FLO) antibiotic from aqueous media were evaluated from experimental and theoretical perspectives. The effect of catalyst type, light source type, photocatalyst mass (g), pH, FLO concentration (mg/L), and reaction time (min) was investigated. According to the results, In2O3/Bi2WO6 with molar ratio of 2:1 had the highest degradation performance. Also, the Molecular dynamic (MD) simulation results revealed that the interaction energy for FLO adsorbed on In2O3 surface is −195.407 kJ/mol and for adsorbed on Bi2WO6 surface is −61.672 kJ/mol. It is also apparent from these interaction energy values that FLO adsorbed on In2O3 surface have more negative Eint values and stronger interactions as compared to Bi2WO6 surface. These results are supported by the findings of the values of drug degradation efficiencies experimentally obtained. The results of this study suggest that the photocatalytic process is optimal at conditions 0.05 g In2O3/Bi2WO6 with molar ratio of 2:1 of catalyst and also the amount of 100 μl H2O2 30% with concentration of 100 (mg/L) FLO at pH = 5, within 15 min under UVC light degradation efficiency is 99.99%.
Clinical characteristics of H‐type hypertension and its relationship with the MTHFR C677T polymorphism in a Zhuang population from Guangxi, China
Authors: Huang Liu Qiang , Wu Chong Xin , Wei Hua Qing , Xu Ge
Published: August 2020

Objective

This study was designed to assess the clinical presentation of patients with H‐type hypertension who were of Zhuang nationality in Guangxi, China. The relationship between the C677T polymorphism in the MTHFR gene and H‐type hypertension was also assessed.

Methods

This was a case‐control study in which 185 Zhuang nationality patients with hypertension that had been hospitalized at the Wuming Hospital of Guangxi Medical University between February 2018 and December 2018 were assessed for plasma homocysteine (Hcy) levels. These levels were used to divide patients into H‐type (>15 μmol/L) and non‐H‐type (≤15 μmol/L) hypertension groups. Patient clinical data were then analyzed, and PCR was used to analyze samples from all patients for the presence of the C677T polymorphism in the MTHFR gene. Differences between these two groups of hypertension patients were then compared using appropriate statistical methods.

Results

We found that relative to patients in the non‐H‐type hypertension group, patients in the H‐type hypertension group exhibited significant differences in sex, age, urea nitrogen levels, creatinine levels, and uric acid levels. There were, however, no significant differences between these two groups with respect to interventricular septum thickness, left ventricular posterior wall thickness, or ejection fraction. We did not detect any association between the MTHFR gene C677T polymorphism and H‐type hypertension in Zhuang nationality individuals in Guangxi.

Conclusion

Risk of H‐type hypertension is not associated with the MTHFR C677T polymorphism in hypertensive individuals of Guangxi Zhuang nationality in China.
Effect of potassium feldspar on the decomposition rate of phosphogypsum
Authors: Lu Dinghui , Chen Qianlin , Li Cuiqin , Gong Shang
Published: August 2020

Background

Phosphogypsum (PG) is a solid waste from a wet process of phosphoric acid and its main component is CaSO4·2H2O. However, the temperature of PG decomposition is above 1200 °C. In this study, the decomposition temperature of PG was decreased using a small amount of coke as reducing agent, and the decomposition rate of PG can be further increased using potassium feldspar (K‐feldspar) as an additive to form a eutectic mixture with PG in nitrogen atmosphere.

Results

A high PG decomposition rate of 99.40% was obtained at 1150 °C for 25 min, when the mass ratio of coke to PG and K‐feldspar to PG was 0.07 and 0.43, respectively. Compared with the addition of coke alone (coke/PG = 0.07) as the reducing agent, the decomposition rate of PG was increased by 35.40%. The HSC Chemistry software 8 was used to calculate the equilibrium compositions of the PG @K‐feldspar @coke system, and the decomposition rate of 99.77% was obtained at 1150 °C by calculation. The experimental results are basically consistent with the thermodynamic equilibrium calculation.

Conclusion

The PG and K‐feldspar are fully utilized by calcination. The decomposition reaction of PG can proceed via the continuous consumption of CaO and CaS by K‐feldspar, which increased the decomposition rate of PG. The thermodynamic calculation results showed a good agreement between the equilibrium value calculated and the experimental data obtained. Furthermore, the calcined products can be used as an agricultural potassium fertilizer. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)
Closing the serological gap in the diagnostic testing for COVID‐19: The value of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgA antibodies
Authors: Infantino Maria , Manfredi Mariangela , Grossi Valentina , Lari Barbara , Fabbri Sergio , Benucci Maurizio , Fortini Alberto , Damiani Arianna , Mobilia Emanuela Maria , Panciroli Marta , Pancani Silvia , Pesce Giampaola
Published: August 2020

During coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, the early diagnosis of patients is a priority. Serological assays, in particular immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgG anti‐severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), have today several applications but the interpretation of their results remains an open challenge. Given the emerging role of the IgA isotype in the COVID‐19 diagnostics, we aimed to identify the SARS‐CoV‐2 IgA antibodies in a COVID‐19 population seronegative for IgM. A total of 30 patients hospitalized in San Giovanni di Dio Hospital (Florence, Italy) for COVID‐19, seronegative for IgM antibodies, have been studied for anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies. They all had a positive oro/nasopharyngeal swab reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction result. Assays used were a chemiluminescent assay measuring SARS‐CoV‐2 specific IgM and IgG (S + N) and an ELISA, measuring specific IgG (S1) and IgA antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2. Among the 30 patients, eight were positive for IgA, seven were positive for IgG (N + S), and two for IgG (S1), at the first point (5‐7 days from the onset of symptoms). The IgA antibodies mean values at the second (9‐13 days) and third (21‐25 days) time points were even more than twice as high as IgG assays. The agreement between the two IgG assays was moderate (Cohen's K = 0.59; SE = 0.13). The inclusion of the IgA antibodies determination among serological tests of the COVID‐19 diagnostic is recommended. IgA antibodies may help to close the serological gap of the COVID‐19. Variations among anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG assays should be considered in the interpretation of results.
HIV p17 enhances T cell proliferation by suppressing autophagy through the p17‐OLA1‐GSK3β axis under nutrient starvation
Authors: Lu Jing , Jia Jiayuan , Zhang Jiahui , Liu Xinqi
Published: August 2020

Nutrient starvation is a common phenomenon that occurs during T cell activation. Upon pathogen infection, large amounts of immune cells migrate to infection sites, and antigen‐specific T cells are activated; this is followed by rapid proliferation through clonal expansion. The dramatic expansion of cells will commonly lead to nutrient shortage. Cellular autophagy is often upregulated as a way to sustain the body's energy requirements. During infection, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co‐opts a series of host cell metabolic pathways for replication. Several HIV proteins, such as Env, Nef, and Vpr, have already been reported as being involved in autophagy‐related processes. In this report, we identified that the HIV p17 protein acts as a major factor in suppressing the autophagic process in T cells, especially under glucose starvation condition. HIV p17 interacts with Obg‐like ATPase 1 (OLA1) and disrupts OLA1‐glycogen synthase kinase‐3 beta (GSK3β) complex, leading to GSK3β hyperactivation. Consequently, a prior proliferation of HIV‐infected T cells under glucose starvation will occur. The inhibition of autophagy also aids HIV replication by antagonizing the antiviral effect of autophagy. Our study shows a new cellular pathway that HIV can hijack for viral spreading by a prior proliferation of HIV‐loaded T cells and may provide new therapeutic targets for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome intervention.
Results from a survey in healthy blood donors in South Eastern Italy indicate that we are far away from herd immunity to SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Fiore Josè Ramòn , Centra Michele , De Carlo Armando , Granato Tommaso , Rosa Annamaria , Sarno Michelina , De Feo Lucia , Di Stefano Mariantonietta , Errico Maria D' , Caputo Sergio Lo , De Nittis Rosella , Arena Fabio , Corso Gaetano , Margaglione Maurizio , Santantonio Teresa Antonia
Published: August 2020

Here we present results from a survey on anti‐severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) seroprevalence in healthy blood donors from a low incidence coronavirus disease 2019 area (Apulia region, South Eastern Italy). Among 904 subjects tested, only in nine cases (0.99%) antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2 were demonstrated. All the nine seropositive patients were negative for the research of viral RNA by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in nasopharyngeal swabs. These data, along with those recently reported from other countries, clearly show that we are very far from herd immunity and that the containment measures are at the moment the only realistic instrument we have to slow the spread of the pandemic.
Effects of the pre‐fermentative addition of chitosan on the nitrogenous fraction and the secondary fermentation products of SO2‐free red wines
Authors: Marchante Lourdes , Mena Adela , Izquierdo‐Cañas Pedro M , García‐Romero Esteban , Pérez‐Coello María Soledad , Díaz‐Maroto María Consuelo
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Different red winemaking were carried out to evaluate the effects of the prefermentative addition of chitosan, as an alternative to the use of SO2, on the secondary products of alcoholic fermentation, yeast available nitrogen (YAN), biogenic amines and ethyl carbamate.

RESULTS

The wines made with chitosan presented higher total acidity and higher content of tartaric and succinic acids than those made only with SO2. The use of chitosan in winemaking resulted in wines with higher glycerol and diacetyl content without increasing the concentration of ethanol, acetic acid, acetaldehyde or butanediol. YAN was lower in wines made with chitosan, which may mean an advantage for the microbial stability of the wines. Furthermore, the use of chitosan at the beginning of alcoholic fermentation did not increase the concentration of biogenic amines or the formation of ethyl carbamate in SO2‐free red wines.

CONCLUSION

The total or partial substitution of SO2 for chitosan at the beginning of the alcoholic fermentation gives rise to quality red wines without negatively affecting their nitrogen fraction or their very important secondary fermentation products such as acetic acid or acetaldehyde. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Sodium butyrate attenuated iE‐DAP induced inflammatory response in the mammary glands of dairy goats fed high‐concentrate diet
Authors: Wang Yan , Liu Jing , Huang Jie , Chang Guangjun , Roy Animesh Chandra , Gao Qianyun , Cheng Xiaoye , Shen Xiangzhen
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Long‐term high‐concentrate (HC) diet feeding increased bacterial endotoxins, which translocated into the mammary glands of dairy goats and induced inflammatory response. γ‐d‐Glutamyl‐meso‐diaminopimelic acid (iE‐DAP), bacterial peptidoglycan component, triggered inflammatory response through activating nucleotide oligomerization domain protein 1 (NOD1) signaling pathway. While dietary supplemented with sodium butyrate (SB) relieved inflammatory response and improved animal health and production. To investigate the effects and the mechanisms of action of SB on the inflammatory response in the mammary glands of dairy goats fed HC diet, 12 Saanen dairy goats were randomly assigned into HC group and SB regulated (BHC) group.

RESULTS

The results showed that SB supplementation attenuated ruminal pH decrease caused by HC diet in dairy goats resulting in a decrease of proinflammatory cytokines and iE‐DAP plasma concentration and the mRNA expression of NOD1 and other inflammation‐related genes. The protein levels of NOD1, NF‐κB p65 and NF‐κB pp65 were decreased by the SB supplementation. The expression of histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) was also inhibited by the SB supplementation. Meanwhile, the chromatin compaction ratios and DNA methylation levels of NOD1 and receptor‐interacting protein 2 (RIP2) of BHC group were upregulated.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, the SB supplementation mitigated the inflammatory response in the mammary glands of dairy goats during HC‐induced subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) by inhibiting the activation of the NOD1/NF‐κB signaling pathway through the decrease of the iE‐DAP concentration in the rumen fluid and plasma and HDAC3 expression. DNA methylation and chromatin remodeling also contributed to the anti‐inflammatory effect of SB. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
A Novel Endoscopic Arytenoid Medialization for Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis
Authors: Rovó László , Ambrus Andrea , Tóbiás Zoltán , Wootten Christopher T. , Bach Ádám
Published: August 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Arytenoid adduction (AA) has been indicated for unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) patients with vertical vocal fold height mismatch and/or large posterior glottic gaps that are unable to be adequately addressed by anterior medialization techniques. Although AA offers several advantages over other methods, it is technically challenging and involves significant laryngeal manipulation of the cricoarytenoid joint. A novel, minimally invasive endoscopic arytenoid medialization technique is presented for the closure of the posterior commissure.

Study Design

Prospective case series.

Methods

Seventeen consecutive patients were diagnosed and treated with unilateral endoscopic arytenoid medialization (EAM) combined with injection laryngoplasty because of unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Jitter, shimmer, harmonics‐to‐noise ratio (HNR), maximum phonation time (MPT), fundamental frequency (F0), Voice Handicap Index (VHI), peak inspiratory flow (PIF), and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated preoperatively, 1 month, and 1 year after EAM.

Results

Jitter, shimmer, HNR, and MPT significantly improved and remained stable 1 year after the intervention. F0 and PIF remained unchanged. Significant improvements in VHI and QoL demonstrated patient satisfaction with voicing and respiratory functions.

Conclusions

Endoscopic arytenoid medialization is a quick, minimally invasive solution for unilateral vocal fold paralysis. With simultaneous augmentation of the vocal fold, it provides a complete glottic closure along the entire vocal fold in UVFP patients.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E903–E910, 2021
Patient‐specific anatomical models for radioiodine dosimetry in treatment of hyperthyroidism: is it necessary?
Authors: Khalili Susan , Miri‐Hakimabad Hashem , Hoseinian‐Azghadi Elie
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To investigate the necessity of patient‐specific dosimetry calculations using individualized models for hyperthyroid patients treated with radioactive iodine (RAI). This treatment modality was considered to be safe and effective; however, a recent publication indicated associations between greater organ‐absorbed doses of RAI and risk of cancer death.

Methods

Ten patient‐specific models which ranged in size were used (from 152.5 to 184 cm in height and from 44 to 88 kg in mass). The time‐integrated activity coefficients (TIAC) were evaluated from the 2017 Leggett’s model assuming 24 h radioactive iodine uptakes (RAIU) of 30, 50, 70, and 90% and two intake routes for normal uptake (ingestion and injection). A set of 131I S factors (mGy MBq‐1 h‐1) from the patient‐specific phantoms including 12 source regions were provided in this study. These S factors were used together with the new TIACs to present dose coefficients.

Results

The MC‐based patient‐specific S factors were compared with the ICRP standard data and the variation ranges (%) of (−65, +210) and (−57, +193) were reported for self and cross S factors, respectively. However, for self S factors, those intervals were reduced to (−8.3, +4.6) when mass correction was applied. Moreover, variations on organ dose coefficients were evaluated and the thyroid contributions were also assessed for 24 h RAIU of 30, 50, 70, and 90%. Considering that the thyroid contribution to adjacent normal organs is high and the variations on cross dose coefficients are also considerable, variations (%) on normal organ doses were estimated to be up to (−63, +132), with a planned thyroid absorbed dose of 150 Gy.

Conclusion

Given the large variations on organ doses, the standard data are not an appropriate substitute for patient‐specific data. Particularly, when accurate patient‐specific dose estimation is a serious concern in RAI treatment (RAIT) for nuclear medicine practitioners. However, acquiring computed tomography (CT) images for patient‐specific modeling will impose additional radiation dose to patients. It was concluded that CT imaging limited to the region from skull base to mid thorax (i.e., for organs with RAIT doses of >~50 mGy with a dose of 150 Gy prescribed to the thyroid) may be suggested and is clinically relevant because the normal organ dose increments are not greater than 10%.