bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extracting scenario archetypes: A quantitative text analysis of documents about the future
Authors: Fergnani Alessandro , Jackson Mike
Published: April 2019

We propose a scenario planning method that combines quantitative text analysis with the creation of scenario narratives. We design a variation in the scenario archetypes method (Dator, Journal of Futures Studies, 14, 1–18, 2009), a futures method to create four archetypal scenarios based on four predetermined generic alternative futures named continued growth, collapse, discipline, and transformation. In our variation, we extract archetypal information on the futures from documents about the future via quantitative text analytic techniques, and qualitatively elaborate this information into comprehensive narrative scenarios. This method can harness the abundance of unstructured textual data, significantly reducing the time employed to collect the relevant building block information to write scenarios without decreasing the scenarios’ quality. On the contrary, the text analytic algorithm we use allows us to identify very rich and archetype‐specific information. We present the result of an application of this method in a case study on the futures of work. The method's contributions to the futures literature and limitations are discussed.
Metformin‐induced autophagy and irisin improves INS‐1 cell function and survival in high‐glucose environment via AMPK/SIRT1/PGC‐1α signal pathway
Authors: Li Qingxue , Jia Shaohui , Xu Lei , Li Biao , Chen Ning
Published: April 2019

In order to explore the protective function of metformin on pancreatic β cells to alleviate insulin resistance and underlying mechanisms, INS‐1 cells were cultured into normal control (N), high glucose (H), high glucose and metformin (H + Met), high glucose and chloroquine (H + CQ), and high glucose and Ex527 (H + Ex527) groups, respectively. Upon 24‐hr cultivation, the proliferation and glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) of INS‐1 cells were determined, and the expression of irisin and other proteins associated with AMPK/SIRT1/PGC‐1α signal pathway, autophagy, and apoptosis was evaluated. Compared with the N group, the cells from the H group revealed lower proliferation, GSIS, and expression of irisin and proteins associated with AMPK/SIRT1/PGC‐1α signal pathway and autophagy, but higher expression of proteins associated with apoptosis; in contrast, metformin could significantly rescue lower cell proliferation, GSIS, and expression of proteins associated with AMPK/SIRT1/PGC‐1α signal pathway and autophagy, as well as irisin, and suppress apoptosis in high‐glucose environment. Meanwhile, autophagy inhibitor CQ and SIRT1 inhibitor Ex527 can block above functions of metformin. Therefore, metformin can promote INS‐1 cell proliferation, enhance GSIS, and suppress apoptosis by activating AMPK/SIRT1/PGC‐1α signal pathway, up‐regulating irisin expression, and inducing autophagy in INS‐1 cells in high‐glucose environment.
Lectin microarray profiling and monosaccharide analysis of bovine milk immunoglobulin G oligosaccharides during the first 10 days of lactation
Authors: Feeney Shane , Gerlach Jared Q. , Slattery Helen , Kilcoyne Michelle , Hickey Rita M. , Joshi Lokesh
Published: April 2019

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) in bovine milk is credited with ensuring efficient passive immunity for newborn calves. Bovine milk IgG glycosylation may also have positive impacts on the health of nonbovine consumers of cow's milk. Milk IgG's glycosylation contributes to effector function and may also protect it from protease digestion, allowing IgG to reach the intestine for absorption. However, relatively little is known about changes in milk IgG oligosaccharide presentation and composition over early lactation. In this work, IgG was isolated from milk pooled from three cows at four time points over the first 10 days of lactation postparturition. Purified IgG was labeled with a fluorescent dye and interrogated with a microarray consisting of 48 carbohydrate‐binding proteins (lectins) from plant, fungal, and bacterial sources. Lectin microarray profiles suggested that only subtle changes in the glycosylation of IgG occurred during days 2 and 3 of lactation, but by day 10, the lectin profile diverged from the other three time points. Monosaccharide analysis carried out after hydrolysis confirmed that the ratios of oligosaccharide components remained relatively stable through day 3 and also that sialylation was substantially reduced by day 10. The differences that were observed for glycosylation suggest that different functionalities associated with IgG glycosylation may be required in the first days of life.
Distinct and opposite profiles of connectivity during self‐reference task and rest in youth at clinical high risk for psychosis
Authors: Damme Katherine S. F. , Pelletier‐Baldelli Andrea , Cowan Henry R. , Orr Joseph M. , Mittal Vijay A.
Published: April 2019

Self‐reference is impaired in psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, associated with disability, and closely related to characteristic patterns of aberrant brain connectivity. However, at present, it is unclear whether self‐reference is impacted in pathogenesis of the disorder. Alterations in connectivity during a self‐reference task or resting‐state in the psychosis risk (i.e., prodromal) period may yield important clues for biomarker development, as well as for novel treatment targets. This study examined a task‐based and resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging in individuals at clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis (n = 22) and healthy control unaffected peers (n = 20). The self‐reference task comprised three task conditions where subjects were asked if an adjective was relevant to themselves (self), a designated other individual (other), or to evaluate the word's spelling (letter). Connectivity analyses examined medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), regions commonly found in conjunction analyses of self‐reference, during both the self‐reference task and rest. In task connectivity analyses, CHR individuals exhibited decreased mPFC–PCC connectivity when compared to controls. In resting‐state analyses, CHR participants showed greater mPFC–PCC connectivity. Taken together, results suggest that psychosis‐like alterations in mPFC–PCC connectivity is present prior to psychosis onset across both task and rest.
Parametric study on the performance of the earth‐to‐air heat exchanger for cooling and heating applications
Authors: Hasan Mushtaq I. , Noori Sajad W. , Shkarah Ahmed J.
Published: April 2019

To reduce energy consumption, the earth‐to‐air heat exchanger (EAHE) is a suitable technique for cooling and heating buildings. This paper studies numerically the effect of some design parameters (pipe diameter, inlet condition, pipe length, and outlet condition) on the overall performance of the EAHE system. Four diameters of the EAHE pipe (2, 3, 4, and 6 in) are studied and this numerical study has been done for summer and winter seasons for Nasiriyah city in southern Iraq. First, the built numerical model was validated against the experimental model, and the results of comparison showed a good consensus. After the validation and by using computational fluid dynamics modeling, the overall performance of the EAHE system with all pipe diameters was analyzed with ranges of air velocity, DBT or inlet temperature, and a pipe length of 50 m. The simulated results showed that the EAHE system with 6 in pipe diameter has the best values of overall performance, but from the thermal performance point of view, the 2 in pipe diameter is more suitable.
Forecasting the volatility of theAustralian dollar using high‐frequency data:Does estimator accuracy improve forecast evaluation?
Authors: Bailey George , Steeley James M.
Published: April 2019

We compare forecasts of the volatility of the Australian dollar exchange rate to alternative measures of ex post volatility. We develop and apply a simple test for the improvement in the ability of loss functions to distinguish between forecasts when the quality of a volatility estimator is increased. We find that both realized variance and the daily high–low range provide a significant improvement in loss function convergence relative to squared returns. We find that a model of stochastic volatility provides the best forecasts for models that use daily data, and the GARCH(1,1) model provides the best forecast using high‐frequency data.
Expected market returns: SVIX, realized volatility, and the role of dividends
Authors: Lof Matthijs
Published: April 2019

This note provides a replication of Martin's (Quarterly Journal of Economics, 2017, 132(1), 367–433) finding that the implied volatility measure SVIX predicts US stock market returns up to 12‐month horizons. I find that this result holds for both S&P 500 and CRSP market returns, regardless of whether returns include or exclude dividends. The predictability largely disappears after the SVIX index is replaced by an exponentially weighted moving average measure of realized volatility, suggesting that SVIX holds incremental forward‐looking information compared to realized volatility, despite the high correlation between the two volatility measures.
Catalytic transfer hydrogenation of furfural into furfuryl alcohol over Ni–Fe‐layered double hydroxide catalysts
Authors: Wang Tao , Hu Aiyun , Wang Haijun , Xia Yongmei
Published: April 2019

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and their derivatives have been reported to be widely used as heterogeneous catalysts in various reactions. Herein, Ni‐Fe LDHs with the controlled Ni/Fe molar ratios (2:1, 3:1, 4:1) were synthesized via an easy hydrothermal method, which were used to catalyze the selective reduction of biomass‐derived furfural into furfuryl alcohol using 2‐propanol as a H‐donor under autogenous pressure and characterized using FT‐IR, XRD, TGA, BET, SEM, NH3‐TPD, and CO2‐TPD. It was found that the LDH with a Ni/Fe molar ratio of 3:1 demonstrated the best catalytic activity among the LDHs with different Ni/Fe molar ratios, which showed 97.0% conversion of furfural and 90.2% yield of furfuryl alcohol at 140°C for 5 hr. This was attributable to the synergistic effect of acidic sites and basic sites of the catalyst.
The role of BAFF and APRIL in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Shabgah Arezoo G. , Shariati‐Sarabi Zhaleh , Tavakkol‐Afshari Jalil , Mohammadi Mojgan
Published: April 2019

Development and activation of B cells quickly became clear after identifying new ligands and receptors in the tumor necrosis factor superfamily. B cell–activating factor (BAFF) and a proliferation‐inducing ligand (APRIL) are the members of membrane proteins Type 2 family released by proteolytic cleavage of furin to form active, soluble homotrimers. Except for B cells, ligands are expressed by all such immune cells like T cells, dendritic cells, monocytes, and macrophages. BAFF and APRIL have two common receptors, namely TNFR homolog transmembrane activator and Ca2+ modulator and CAML interactor (TACI) and B cell–maturation antigen. BAFF alone can also be coupled with a third receptor called BAFFR (also called BR3 or BLyS Receptor). These receptors are often expressed by immune cells in the B‐cell lineage. The binding of BAFF or APRIL to their receptors supports B cells differentiation and proliferation, immunoglobulin production and the upregulation of B cell–effector molecules expression. It is possible that the overexpression of BAFF and APRIL contributes to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. In BAFF transgenic mice, there is a pseudo‐autoimmune manifestation, which is associated with an increase in B‐lymphocytes, hyperglobulinemia, anti‐single stranded DNA, and anti‐double‐stranded DNA antibodies, and immune complexes in their peripheral blood. Furthermore, overexpressing BAFF augments the number of peripheral B220+ B cells with a normal proliferation rate, high levels of Bcl2, and prolonged survival and hyperactivity. Therefore, in this review article, we studied BAFF and APRIL as important mediators in B‐cell and discussed their role in rheumatoid arthritis.
Irisin attenuates oxidized low‐density lipoprotein impaired angiogenesis through AKT/mTOR/S6K1/Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Zhang Min , Xu Yinjie , Jiang Li
Published: April 2019

It is known that irisin increases total body energy expenditure, decreases body weight, and enhances insulin sensitivity. Although previous studies have demonstrated that irisin induces vascular endothelial cell (EC) angiogenesis, the molecular mechanisms underlying irisin‐induced angiogenesis under conditions reflecting atherosclerosis are not known. The aim of the present study is to investigate whether irisin could inhibit oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (oxLDL) impaired angiogenesis. We investigated the effect of irisin on angiogenesis in vitro by evaluating cell viability, cell migration, and the capacity to form capillary‐like tubes using human umbilical vein endothelial cells and human microvascular endothelial cells (HUVECs and HMEC‐1) that were treated with oxLDL. We also evaluated the effects of irisin on angiogenesis in vivo by Matrigel plug angiogenesis assay and in a chicken embryo membrane (CAM) model. Our results demonstrated that irisin increased oxLDL‐treated EC viability as well as migration and tube formation. Moreover, oxLDL inhibited angiogenic response in vivo, both in the Matrigel plug angiogenesis assay and in the CAM model, and was attenuated by irisin. Furthermore, irisin decreased apoptosis, inflammatory cytokines, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in oxLDL‐treated EC. In addition, we found that irisin upregulated pAkt/mTOR/Nrf2 in oxLDL‐treated EC. Both mTOR/Nrf2 shRNA and LY294002 could inhibit the protective effect of irisin. Taken together these results, they suggested that irisin attenuates oxLDL‐induced vascular injury by activating the Akt/mTOR/Nrf2 pathway. Our findings suggest that irisin attenuates oxLDL‐induced blood vessel injury.
Oncogenic effects of exosomes in γ‐herpesvirus‐associated neoplasms
Authors: Zheng Jiayu , Shi Yiwan , Feng Zhenyu , Zheng Yilu , Li Zhanhao , Zhao Yi , Wang Yan
Published: April 2019

Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV) and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) are herpesviruses associated with human malignancies. As exosomes can shuttle many herpesvirus‐associated biomolecules from host cells to recipient cells, the exosomal pathway is utilized by herpesviruses to achieve extensive infections and even oncogenesis. In this review, we discuss the oncogenic biomolecules present in exosomes derived from KSHV‐ and EBV‐infected cells. Moreover, oncogenesis via exosomal biomolecules mainly occurs through three processes, including regulation of downstream signals, promotion of immune dysfunction and transformation of cells. Also, the exosomes may provide diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets specific for KSHV‐ and EBV‐associated malignancies.
Retracted: Long noncoding RNA PEG10 facilitates bladder cancer cells proliferation, migration, and invasion via repressing microRNA‐29b
Authors: Liang Tingting , Wang Yongkun , Wang Yonggang , Wang Yao
Published: April 2019

Long noncoding RNA paternally expressed gene 10 (lncRNA PEG10) has been certified to regulate cell proliferation, metastasis, and apoptosis in diversified cancer cells. Nevertheless, the functions of PEG10 in bladder cancer cells remain uninvestigated. We tried to probe the impacts of PEG10 on proliferation, migration, and invasion of bladder cancer cells. PEG10 expression in SV‐HUC‐1, T24, RT4, and 253J‐BV cells was estimated by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). After pc‐PEG10 or sh‐PEG10 transfection, the impacts of PEG10 on T24 and 253J‐BV cell viability, migration, invasion, and the relevant proteins were disclosed via employing CCK‐8, Transwell, and western blot. The relevancy between miR‐29b and PEG10 was probed, and the influences of overexpressed miR‐29b in above‐mentioned cell biological processes were reassessed. Wnt/β‐catenin and JNK pathways were ultimately analyzed to unmake the underling mechanism. We found that overexpressed PEG10 facilitated cell viability and upregulated CyclinD1, CDK4, and CDK6 in T24 and 253J‐BV cells. Cell migration and invasion were also elevated by overexpressed PEG10 through the enhancement of MMP‐2, MMP‐9, and Vimentin. In addition, repressed miR‐29b was observed in PEG10‐overexpressed T24 and 253J‐BV cells. Moreover, overexpressed miR‐29b overtly overturned the carcinogenic impacts of PEG10 on T24 cells. The activations of Wnt/β‐catenin and JNK pathways were enhanced by overexpressed PEG10 via mediating miR‐29b. SP600125 (JNK inhibitor) disposition reversed the acceerative impacts of PEG10 on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in T24 cells. In conclusion, the investigations testified that PEG10 gave play to the carcinogenic impacts on bladder cancer cells via mediating miR‐29b‐Wnt/β‐catenin‐JNK axis.
Tranexamic acid suppresses the release of mitochondrial DNA, protects the endothelial monolayer and enhances oxidative phosphorylation
Authors: Prudovsky Igor , Carter Damien , Kacer Doreen , Palmeri Monica , Soul Tee , Kumpel Chloe , Pyburn Kathleen , Barrett Karyn , DeMambro Victoria , Alexandrov Ilya , Brandina Irina , Kramer Robert , Rappold Joseph
Published: April 2019

Damage‐associated molecular patterns, including mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) are released during hemorrhage resulting in the development of endotheliopathy. Tranexamic acid (TXA), an antifibrinolytic drug used in hemorrhaging patients, enhances their survival despite the lack of a comprehensive understanding of its cellular mechanisms of action. The present study is aimed to elucidate these mechanisms, with a focus on mitochondria. We found that TXA inhibits the release of endogenous mtDNA from granulocytes and endothelial cells. Furthermore, TXA attenuates the loss of the endothelial monolayer integrity induced by exogenous mtDNA. Using the Seahorse XF technology, it was demonstrated that TXA strongly stimulates mitochondrial respiration. Studies using Mitotracker dye, cells derived from mito‐QC mice, and the ActivSignal IPAD assay, indicate that TXA stimulates biogenesis of mitochondria and inhibits mitophagy. These findings open the potential for improvement of the strategies of TXA applications in trauma patients and the development of more efficient TXA derivatives.
Facile Synthesis of Novel Aminopyrrolobenzimidazole System via Regioselective Amination
Authors: Salameh Bader A. , Mahmoud Haneen , Khanfar Monther A. , Al‐Qawasmeh Raed A.
Published: April 2019

A new series of substituted pryrrolobenzimidazoles have been prepared via regioselective displacement of chlorine atom from dichloropyrrolobenzimidazoles with various amine nucleophiles. The dichloro compounds were obtained from the reaction of ortho phenylene diamine compounds with dichloromaleic anhydride.
On the Field Strength Dependence of Bi‐ and Triexponential Intravoxel Incoherent Motion (IVIM) Parameters in the Liver
Authors: Riexinger Andreas Julian , Martin Jan , Rauh Susanne , Wetscherek Andreas , Pistel Mona , Kuder Tristan Anselm , Nagel Armin Michael , Uder Michael , Hensel Bernhard , Müller Lars , Laun Frederik Bernd
Published: April 2019

Background

Studies on intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) imaging are carried out with different acquisition protocols.

Purpose

To investigate the dependence of IVIM parameters on the B0 field strength when using a bi‐ or triexponential model.

Study Type

Prospective.

Study Population

20 healthy volunteers (age: 19–28 years).

Field Strength/Sequence

Volunteers were examined at two field strengths (1.5 and 3T). Diffusion‐weighted images of the abdomen were acquired at 24 b‐values ranging from 0.2 to 500 s/mm2.

Assessment

ROIs were manually drawn in the liver. Data were fitted with a bi‐ and a triexponential IVIM model. The resulting parameters were compared between both field strengths.

Statistical Tests

One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Kruskal–Wallis test were used to test the obtained IVIM parameters for a significant field strength dependency.

Results

At b‐values below 6 s/mm2, the triexponential model provided better agreement with the data than the biexponential model. The average tissue diffusivity was D = 1.22/1.00 μm2/msec at 1.5/3T. The average pseudodiffusion coefficients for the biexponential model were D* = 308/260 μm2/msec at 1.5/3T; and for the triexponential model = 81.3/65.9 μm2/msec, = 2453/2333 μm2/msec at 1.5/3T. The average perfusion fractions for the biexponential model were f = 0.286/0.303 at 1.5/3T; and for the triexponential model f1 = 0.161/0.174 and f2 = 0.152/0.159 at 1.5/3T. A significant B0 dependence was only found for the biexponential pseudodiffusion coefficient (ANOVA/KW P = 0.037/0.0453) and tissue diffusivity (ANOVA/KW: P < 0.001).

Data Conclusion

Our experimental results suggest that triexponential pseudodiffusion coefficients and perfusion fractions obtained at different field strengths could be compared across different studies using different B0. However, it is recommended to take the field strength into account when comparing tissue diffusivities or using the biexponential IVIM model. Considering published values for oxygenation‐dependent transversal relaxation times of blood, it is unlikely that the two blood compartments of the triexponential model represent venous and arterial blood.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1883–1892.
Distinct expression and clinical value of aquaporin 4 in children with hand, foot and mouth disease caused by enterovirus 71
Authors: Zhu Lei , Yin Hong , Qian Tong , Qi Gong‐jian , Ren Jin‐song , Wang Yin , Qi Bo‐xiang
Published: April 2019

Brain dysfunction is a prerequisite for critical complications in children with hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). Aquaporin 4 (AQP‐4) may be involved in the pathological process of cerebral oedema and injury in children with severe and critical HFMD. This study aimed to assess the association of AQP‐4 with the severity of enterovirus 71 (EV71)–associated HFMD. Children with EV71‐infected HFMD were divided into a common group (clinical stage 1), a severe group (clinical stage 2), and a critical group (clinical stage 3) according to Chinese guidelines. The levels of AQP‐4, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), norepinephrine (NE), and neuron‐specific enolase (NSE) before and after treatment were tested. Serum AQP‐4, IL‐6, NE, and NSE levels showed significant differences among the critical, severe, and common groups before and after treatment (P < 0.01). No significant differences in AQP‐4 levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were observed between the critical and severe groups before and after treatment, but the CSF AQP‐4 levels in these two groups were higher than those in the common group before treatment (P < 0.01). Serum AQP‐4 levels, but not CSF AQP‐4 levels, closely correlated with serum IL‐6, NE, and NSE levels. These results suggest that the level of AQP‐4 in serum, but not in CSF, is a candidate biomarker for evaluating the severity and prognosis of EV71‐associated HFMD.
Microglial phagocytosis in aging and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Gabandé‐Rodríguez Enrique , Keane Lily , Capasso Melania
Published: April 2019

Microglia are the innate immune cells of the brain, which maintain homeostasis by constantly scanning and surveying the environment with their highly ramified processes. In order to exert this function, they need to phagocytose synapses as well as debris and dead cells, a process that is further amplified in pathological conditions. Importantly, it has been shown that microglia phagocytic capacity is altered in the course of neurodegenerative disease, for which aging is one of the highest risk factors. Thus, understanding how phagocytosis is impaired during aging is a priority for future research. Advances in this area are expected to significantly contribute to our understanding of normal cognition during aging, as well as changes that take place in age‐associated neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge on how phagocytosis is executed and affected by aging or in age‐associated neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Furthermore, we will summarize both protective and deleterious consequences of altered phagocytosis in AD and where relevant in other neurodegenerative diseases.
Limitations of univariate linear bias correction in yielding cross‐correlation between monthly precipitation and temperature
Authors: Bhowmik R. Das , Sankarasubramanian A.
Published: April 2019

Statistical bias correction techniques are commonly used in climate model projections to reduce systematic biases. Among the several bias correction techniques, univariate linear bias correction (e.g., quantile mapping) is the most popular, given its simplicity. Univariate linear bias correction can accurately reproduce the observed mean of a given climate variable. However, when performed separately on multiple variables, it does not yield the observed multivariate cross‐correlation structure. In the current study, we consider the intrinsic properties of two candidate univariate linear bias‐correction approaches (simple linear regression and asynchronous regression) in estimating the observed cross‐correlation between precipitation and temperature. Two linear regression models are applied separately on both the observed and the projected variables. The analytical solution suggests that two candidate approaches simply reproduce the cross‐correlation from the general circulation models (GCMs) in the bias‐corrected data set because of their linearity. Our study adopts two frameworks, based on the Fisher z‐transformation and bootstrapping, to provide 95% lower and upper confidence limits (referred as the permissible bound) for the GCM cross‐correlation. Beyond the permissible bound, raw/bias‐corrected GCM cross‐correlation significantly differs from those observed. Two frameworks are applied on three GCMs from the CMIP5 multimodel ensemble over the coterminous United States. We found that (a) the univariate linear techniques fail to reproduce the observed cross‐correlation in the bias‐corrected data set over 90% (30–50%) of the grid points where the multivariate skewness coefficient values are substantial (small) and statistically significant (statistically insignificant) from zero; (b) the performance of the univariate linear techniques under bootstrapping (Fisher z‐transformation) remains uniform (non‐uniform) across climate regions, months, and GCMs; (c) grid points, where the observed cross‐correlation is statistically significant, witness a failure fraction of around 0.2 (0.8) under the Fisher z‐transformation (bootstrapping). The importance of reproducing cross‐correlations is also discussed along with an enquiry into the multivariate approaches that can potentially address the bias in yielding cross‐correlations.
Comprehensive characterization and quantification of multiple components in Dan‐Huang‐Qu‐Yu capsule using a multivariate data processing approach based on microwave‐assisted extraction with UHPLC and Q Exactive quadrupole‐orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Yang Bo , Ying Yin , Zou Jie , Ge Shuyu , Zuo Lihua
Published: April 2019

Dan‐Huang‐Qu‐Yu capsule, a Chinese herbal medicine compound preparation, is widely used for chronic pelvic inflammatory disease. In this study, a rapid, selective, and sensitive microwave‐assisted extraction ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐Q Exactive quadrupole‐orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry method was developed for analyzing its chemical compositions. A total of 85 compounds, including 22 flavonoids, 8 terpenoids, 5 quinones, 5 phthaleolactone, 23 organic acids, and 22 other compounds were identified from Dan‐Huang‐Qu‐Yu capsule. Among them, 35 major compounds were unambiguously detected by comparing them with reference standards and selected as quality control markers, which were simultaneously determined in Dan‐Huang‐Qu‐Yu capsule. The established method was successfully validated and applied for simultaneous determination of 35 bioactive compounds in Dan‐Huang‐Qu‐Yu capsule from ten sample batches. The quantitative data of the analytes were analyzed by principal component analysis for quality assessment of Dan‐Huang‐Qu‐Yu capsule. Six compounds (e.g., astragaloside IV, salvianolic acid B, ellagic acid, chlorogenic acid, N‐butylidenephthalide, and luteolin) were screened out and regarded as chemical markers for quality control of Dan‐Huang‐Qu‐Yu capsule. The established method has been proved to be a novel and useful tool for rapid research of Dan‐Huang‐Qu‐Yu capsule. This research will provide reference for the scientific research of traditional Chinese medicines.
Enhanced Bone Defect Repair by Polymeric Substitute Fillers of MultiArm Polyethylene Glycol‐Crosslinked Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogels
Authors: Yuan Jishan , Maturavongsadit Panita , Metavarayuth Kamolrat , Luckanagul Jittima Amie , Wang Qian
Published: April 2019

Bone regeneration is still one of the greatest challenges for the treatment of bone defects since no current clinical approach has been proven effective. To develop an alternative biodegradable bone graft material, multiarm polyethylene glycol (PEG) crosslinked hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels are synthesized and applied to promote osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with the ultimate goal for bone defect repair. The multiarm PEG‐HA hydrogels provide a significant improvement of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcium mineralization of the in vitro encapsulated MSCs under osteogenic condition after 3, 7, and 28 days. In addition, the multiarm PEG‐HA hydrogels also facilitate healing of the cranial bone defects more effectively in a Sprague Dawley rat model after 10 weeks of implantation based on histological evaluations and microcomputed tomography analysis. These promising results set the stage for the development of innovative biodegradable hydrogels to provide a more effective and versatile treatment option for bone regeneration.
Synthesis and Gas Permeability of Chemically Cross‐Linked Polynorbornene Dicarboximides Bearing Fluorinated Moieties
Authors: Aranda‐Suárez Ivette , Corona‐García Carlos , Santiago Arlette A. , López Morales Salvador , Abatal Mohamed , López‐González Mar , Vargas Joel
Published: April 2019

This work reports on the synthesis of a novel bifunctional norbornene dicarboximide monomer (HFDA) based on 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)bis(p‐phenyleneoxy)dianiline and its application as a cross‐linking agent in the ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) with N‐3‐trifluoromethylphenyl‐exo,endo‐norbornene‐5,6‐dicarboximide (mCF3) employing the Grubbs 2nd generation catalyst (I) and cis‐1,4‐diacetoxy‐2‐butene as a chain transfer agent (CTA) to yield a series of soluble nonlinear highly branched chains polymers with increasing degree of cross‐linking. A comparative study of gas transport in membranes based on these cross‐linked polynorbornene dicarboximides is performed and the gases studied are hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, methane, ethylene, and propylene. It is found that cross‐linking increases the gas permeability, leads to the highest separation factor reported to date for the H2/C3H6 mixture in this kind of polymers, and also enhances the CO2 plasticization resistance up to 14 atm upstream pressure. The chemical cross‐linking approach employed in this research is an effective tool to enhance gas transport properties for dense polynorbornene dicarboximide membranes.
A review of the molecular design and biological activities of RXR agonists
Authors: de Almeida Nathalia Rodrigues , Conda‐Sheridan Martin
Published: April 2019

An attractive approach to combat disease is to target theregulation of cell function. At the heart of this task are nuclear receptors (NRs); which control functions such as gene transcription. Arguably, the key player in this regulatory machinery is the retinoid X receptor (RXR). This NR associates with a third of the NRs found in humans. Scientists have hypothesized that controlling the activity of RXR is an attractive approach to control cellular functions that modulate diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. In this review, we will describe the key features of the RXR, present a historic perspective of the first RXR agonists, and discuss various templates that have been reported to activate RXR with a focus on their molecular structure, biological activity, and limitations. Finally, we will present an outlook of the field and future directions and considerations to synthesize or modulate RXR agonists to make these compounds a clinical reality.
Reduction of expression of IL‐18, IL‐1β genes in the articular joint by sumac fruit extract (Rhus coriaria L.)
Authors: Momeni Amin , Maghsoodi Hossein , Rezapour Sadegh , Shiravand Mostafa , Mardani Mahnaz
Published: April 2019

Background

Osteoarthritis is the most common malignant disease in the world. The disease is caused by changes in the metabolism, the structure and function of multiple joints, and joint tissues. Sumac is one of the indigenous plants of Iran and has traditionally been used as a spice in Iran. The aim of this study was to investigate the reduction of expression of IL‐18, IL‐1β genes in the articular joint by sumac fruit extract (Rhus coriaria L.).

Methods

The alcoholic extract of sumac fruit (E.E.R.C.L) was prepared from the Genetic Reserve Center. Bleeding was used to provide synoviocyte cells from the joint and fluid of the anatomical metacarpal limb of the 8‐month‐old Holstein healthy calf without any signs of inflammation. Using cell‐hemocytometer count, their viability was evaluated by trypan blue and after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) proliferation and injection to enhance the level of cytokines. After isolating the RNA and preparing the cDNA, RT‐PCR and PCR were performed and then, using the real‐time PCR method, the expression of the desired genes was investigated.

Results

In this study, after the expression of IL‐18 cytokines, IL‐1β increased to 100%, and following the treatment with alcoholic extract, the reduction of expression of these cytokines was 33.61% and 29.01%, respectively. The results of anti‐inflammatory effects showed that the alcoholic extract of sumac reduced the IL‐1β, IL‐18 expression in LPS‐stimulated cells.

Conclusion

Sumac fruit extract can be an effective medication for reducing pain.
Quantitative muscle ultrasound in upper extremity mononeuropathies
Authors: Wang Yun , Gutierrez Hilda , Martucci Maria , Poussaint Alison , Qi Kristin , Sanchez Benjamin , Rutkove Seward B.
Published: April 2019

Introduction

We assessed the potential use of quantitative ultrasound (QUS) in the evaluation hand muscles affected by upper extremity mononeuropathies.

Methods

The gray scale levels (GSLs) of abductor pollicis brevis (APB), abductor digiti minimi (ADM), and first dorsal interosseous (FDI) of 30 healthy and 30 upper extremity mononeuropathy patients were measured and compared with standard electrophysiological values.

Results

Mean GSL was elevated in 34 APBs of carpal tunnel syndrome patients and 18 FDIs of ulnar neuropathy patients (e.g., FDI mean GSL (interquartile range) 31.5 (27.3~43.8) arbitrary units for patients and 24.0(23.0~29.0) for healthy subjects (P = 0.020)). GSL correlated with motor response amplitudes (Spearman's rho (ρ) = ‐0.39, P = 0.002 in APB, ρ = ‐0.72, P = 0.002 in FDI, and ρ = ‐0.43, P = 0.013 in ADM). The APB GSL correlated with electromyographic severity and disease duration (ρ = 0.46, P < 0.001 and ρ = 0.45, P = 0.003).

Conclusions

Muscle QUS may serve as a useful tool in upper extremity mononeuropathy evaluation. Further study of this concept is recommended.
Aerobic exercise and consecutive task‐specific training (AExaCTT) for upper limb recovery after stroke: A randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Valkenborghs Sarah R. , van Vliet Paulette , Nilsson Michael , Zalewska Katarzyna , Visser Milanka M. , Erickson Kirk I. , Callister Robin
Published: April 2019

Objective

This study examined the feasibility of a parallel‐group assessor‐blinded randomized controlled trial investigating whether task‐specific training preceded by aerobic exercise (AEX + TST) improves upper limb function more than task‐specific training (TST) alone.

Methods

People with upper limb motor dysfunction after stroke were allocated to TST or AEX + TST. Both groups were prescribed 60 hr of TST over 10 weeks (3 × 1‐hr sessions with a therapist per week and 3 × 1 hr of home‐based self‐practice per week). The AEX + TST group performed 30 minutes of aerobic exercise immediately prior to the 1 hr of TST with the therapist. Recruitment, adherence, retention, participant acceptability, and adverse events were recorded. Clinical measures were performed prerandomization at baseline, on completion of the intervention, and at 1‐ and 6‐month follow‐up.

Results

Fifty‐nine persons after stroke were screened, 42 met the eligibility criteria, and 20 (11 male; mean [SD] age: 55.4 [16.0] years; time since stroke: 71.7 [91.2] months) were recruited over 17 months. The mean Wolf Motor Function Test Functional Ability Score at baseline was 27.4 (max = 75) and the mean Action Research Arm Test score was 11.2 (max = 57). Nine were randomized to AEX + TST and 11 to TST. There were no adverse events, but there was one drop out. Retention at 1‐ and 6‐month follow‐up was 80% and 85%, respectively. Attendance was 93% (6) for the AEX + TST group, and 89% (9) for the TST group. AEX + TST was perceived as acceptable (100%) and beneficial (87.5%). Exertional fatigue (visual analogue scale) prior to TST was worse in the AEX + TST group (3.5 [0.7] out of 10) than the TST group (1.7 [1.4] out of 10). The TST group performed 31% more repetitions per session than the AEX + TST group.

Conclusion

A subsequent Phase III study is feasible, but modifications to eligibility criteria, outcome measures, and intervention delivery are recommended.
Bismaleimide cross‐linked anthrax toxin forms functional octamers with high specificity in tumor targeting
Authors: Fischer Elyse S. , Campbell Warren A. , Liu Shihui , Ghirlando Rodolfo , Fattah Rasem J. , Bugge Thomas H. , Leppla Stephen H.
Published: April 2019

In recent years, anthrax toxin has been reengineered to act as a highly specific antiangiogenic cancer therapeutic, shown to kill tumors in animal models. This has been achieved by modifying protective antigen (PA) so that its activation and toxicity require the presence of two proteases, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), which are upregulated in tumor microenvironments. These therapeutics consist of intercomplementing PA variants, which are individually nontoxic, but form functional toxins upon complementary oligomerization. Here, we have created a dual‐protease requiring PA targeting system which utilizes bismaleimide cross‐linked PA (CLPA) rather than the intercomplementing PA variants. Three different CLPA agents were tested and, as expected, found to exclusively form octamers. Two of the CLPA agents have in vitro toxicities equal to those of previous intercomplementing agents, while the third CLPA agent had compromised in vitro cleavage and was significantly less cytotoxic. We hypothesize this difference was due to steric hindrance caused by cross‐linking two PA monomers in close proximity to the PA cleavage site. Overall, this work advances the development and use of the PA and LF tumor‐targeting system as a practical cancer therapeutic, as it provides a way to reduce the drug components of the anthrax toxin drug delivery system from three to two, which may lower the cost and simplify testing in clinical trials.

HIGHLIGHT

Previously, anthrax toxin has been reengineered to act as a highly specific antiangiogenic cancer therapeutic. Here, we present a version, which utilizes bismaleimide cross‐linked protective antigen (PA) rather than intercomplementing PA variants. This advances the development of anthrax toxin as a practical cancer therapeutic as it reduces the components of the drug delivery system to two, which may lower the cost and simplify testing in clinical trials.
The Ubiquitous Extended Koopmans’ Theorem
Authors: Pavlyukh Yaroslav
Published: April 2019

The Koopmans’ theorem is a statement about the interpretation of Hartree–Fock eigenstates with several important generalizations. They allow for the extraction of excited electronic states starting from the ground state density correlators. Here, the theorem is applied to the computation of doubly excited states, that is, excited states containing a significat amount of doubly excited configurations. They are known to be difficult for time‐dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) and for the equation‐of‐motion (EOM) class of methods in general. Using two molecular systems trans‐butadiene and anthracene as examples, it is demonstrated that both, the self‐energy corrections and the corrections due to double electron transitions are important. Finally, the applicability of the extended Koopmans’ theorem (EKT) for the determination of spectral properties from the Matsubara Green's function (GF) approach and the Bethe–Salpeter equation are demonstrated.
Characterization of the material elongation in the deep drawing of paperboard
Authors: Hofmann André , Wallmeier Malte , Hauptmann Marek , Majschak Jens‐Peter
Published: April 2019

In this paper, deep‐drawn paperboard cups are characterized in terms of their elongation along the cup wall. For this purpose, a method for the non‐destructive determination of the elongation was developed and tested. Using the presented method, a parameter study of the process parameters blank holder force, forming temperature, material moisture content, drawing velocity, and clearance ratio was performed. The influence of the process parameters on the cup wall elongation was determined by statistical design of experiments. Using the determined relationships between the process parameters, it was possible to achieve a shape‐specific characterization of the elongation along the cup wall. The parameter study showed a significant influence of the blank holder force, the forming temperature, and the material moisture content to the elongation along the cup wall.
Insight into molecular information of Huolinguole lignite obtained by Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry and statistical methods
Authors: Li Bei , Fan Xing , Yu Ya‐Ru , Wang Fei , Li Xian , Lu Yao , Wei Xian‐Yong , Ma Feng‐Yun , Zhao Yun‐Peng , Zhao Wei
Published: April 2019

Rationale

Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT‐ICR MS) was applied to the characterization of organic compounds in coal extracts at the molecular level. Large volumes of data obtained by FT‐ICR MS were processed via statistical methods to extract valuable information on the molecular structures and compositions of organic compounds in coal.

Methods

A low‐rank coal was subjected to ultrasonic extraction sequentially with six solvents to separate and enrich species with different molecular characteristics. Complex mass spectra of the six extracts were obtained by a FT‐ICR MS system equipped with two ionization sources. Two multivariate statistical methods, hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) and principle component analysis (PCA), were introduced to mine useful information from the complex MS data and visually exhibit comprehensive molecular details in coal extracts.

Results

Similarities and differences between the 17 MS data sets from six coal extracts ionized by different ion sources were visually exhibited in plots via data processing using HCA and PCA. For HCA, all of the identified compounds were divided into seven classes (CH, O, N, S, ON, OS, and NS), and detailed differences in the relative abundance were revealed. In addition, PCA discriminated the differences in molecular composition for organic compounds from the six extracts.

Conclusions

Multivariate statistical analysis is a promising methodology which can interpret the chemical composition of coals and coal derivatives at the molecular level, especially for the analysis of multiple complex samples presenting in a single plot.
Characterization of curcumin metabolites in rats by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Shi Mengge , Gao Tingting , Zhang Tong , Han Han
Published: April 2019

Rationale

Curcumin is a major constituent of Curcuma longa L. and is a naturally bio‐active diketone. Structural changes in curcumin have been shown to result in different biological effects. The present study aims to investigate curcumin metabolites in rat plasma, bile, urine, and feces after administration of a single oral dose of curcumin (170 mg/kg).

Methods

After oral administration of curcumin, the plasma, bile, feces, and urine of the rats were collected for a certain period of time, and then subjected to a series of pretreatments. The metabolic pathway of curcumin in vivo was investigated using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) combined with electrospray ionization quadruple time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐QTOF‐MS).

Results

Twelve metabolites were identified and divided into two groups: curcumin metabolites of phase Ι metabolism (M01–M08), curcumin metabolites of phase ΙΙ metabolism (M09–M12), and metabolites M02, M03 and M04 were reported for the first time.

Conclusions

Results showed that curcumin metabolism can help explain the mechanism of its pharmacological effects, and that UHPLC/Q‐TOF‐MS can serve as an important analytical platform to gather the metabolic profile of curcumin.
Fluctuations in a general preferential attachment model via Stein's method
Authors: Betken Carina , Döring Hanna , Ortgiese Marcel
Published: April 2019

We consider a class of dynamic random graphs known as preferential attachment models, where the probability that a new vertex connects to an older vertex is proportional to a sublinear function of the indegree of the older vertex at that time. It is well known that the distribution of a uniformly chosen vertex converges to a limiting distribution. Depending on the parameters, the tail of the limiting distribution may behave like a power law or a stretched exponential. Using Stein's method we provide rates of convergence to zero of the total variation distance between the finite distribution and its limit. Our proof uses the fact that the limiting distribution is the stationary distribution of a Markov chain together with the generator method of Barbour.
Structural and optical properties of novel CdSe nanoparticles produced via a facile synthetic route: Studies on the effects of cadmium sources
Authors: Kiprotich Sharon , Dejene Francis B. , Onani Martin O.
Published: April 2019

We report on the successful synthesis of CdSe nanoparticles (NPs) via a facile aqueous approach. Investigation on the effects of various cadmium sources in the precursor solution on the CdSe NPs is discussed. The structural and morphological properties characterized by the X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) displayed good features of the as‐prepared CdSe NPs. The XRD pattern displayed a pure zinc blende crystal structure for all samples, with the most crystalline sample observed for CdSe NPs prepared using anhydrous cadmium chloride. The estimated crystallite sizes were below 6 nm for all the CdSe NPs samples. Mixed shapes of spherical and nanorods of varying sizes were observed from the SEM images for the as‐prepared NPs prepared using different cadmium sources. The optical studies conducted by photo‐spectroscopy pointed out the CdSe NPs prepared using anhydrous cadmium chloride gave the best optical properties. The emission wavelengths were in the range 565 to 574 nm while the optical band gaps were in the range 2.94 to 3.23 eV for all the as‐prepared CdSe NPs samples. All the samples, however, displayed quantum confinement effects giving room for further fabrication and engineering to suit specific applications in the biological field. The obtained results demonstrated that aqueous phase synthetic route employed in this study could be successfully adopted for production of high‐quality CdSe NPs because of its facile and inexpensive nature.