bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of the spinal TrkB‐NMDA receptor link in the BDNF‐induced long‐lasting mechanical hyperalgesia in the rat: A behavioural study
Authors: Marcos J.L. , Galleguillos D. , Pelissier T. , Hernández A. , Velásquez L. , Villanueva L. , Constandil L.
Published: July 2017

Background

Intrathecal/intracisternal BDNF in rodents produces long‐lasting hyperalgesia/allodynia, which implies BDNF plays a role in the establishment and maintenance of central sensitization. Both self‐regeneration of endogenous BDNF and neuroplastic modifications of spinal NMDA receptors downstream TrkB signalling could be involved in such enduring hyperalgesia. We investigated to what extent BDNF by itself could participate in the generation and maintenance of mechanical hyperalgesia using pharmacological tools.

Methods

We studied sensitivity of mechanical hyperalgesia induced by a single intrathecal (i.t.) injection of BDNF (3 ng/10 μL i.t.) administered at time zero, for: (1) chronic NMDA receptor inhibition with subcutaneously implanted 7‐day delivery osmotic pumps loaded with ketamine; (2) TrkB receptor inhibition with intraperitoneal (i.p.) cyclotraxine‐B; and (3) chronic glial inhibition with repeated propentofylline i.t. injections. Nociceptive threshold to paw pressure, tested on days ‐3, 0, 3, 7, 10 and 14, was used as the index of central sensitization. Locomotor patterns and food and water consumption were assessed with LABORAS.

Results

Chronic ketamine prevented the mechanical hyperalgesia induced by BDNF, without affecting locomotion and food and water consumption. After pump depletion, a late hyperalgesic response to paw pressure stimulation emerged, which can be lastingly antagonized by cyclotraxine‐B. Chronic propentofylline treatment irreversibly suppressed BDNF‐induced hyperalgesia.

Conclusion

Activation of NMDA receptors downstream to TrkB signalling is essential for behavioural expression of the mechanical hyperalgesia induced by intrathecal BDNF. However, maintenance of the hyperalgesia depends mainly from self‐regenerating glial BDNF rather than from a NMDA receptor‐dependent form of neuroplasticity.

Significance

Intrathecal BDNF induces long‐lasting central sensitization via a glial‐likely BDNF self‐regenerating mechanism, whose behavioural expression depends on downstream activation of NMDA receptors. This knowledge suggests that TrkB antagonists could represent an interesting lead for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for some chronic pain conditions.
Distribution and source of rare earth elements in PM2.5 in Xiamen, China
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Yu Ruilian , Hu Gongren , Hu Qichao , Zheng Quan
Published: July 2017

Particulate matter with diameter ≤2.5 µm (PM2.5) is a serious atmospheric pollutant. Composition and source analyses are essential for controlling PM2.5. Rare earth elements (REEs) have received little attention as a component of PM2.5. In the present study, PM2.5 samples were collected in urban and suburban areas in Xiamen and analyzed for REEs. The concentration range of total REEs (∑REE) is 12.07 to 98.45 mg/kg, with a mean of 38.53 mg/kg, in urban PM2.5 and 16.44 to 160.62 mg/kg, with a mean of 42.94 mg/kg, in suburban PM2.5. Light REE concentrations are higher in suburban PM2.5, whereas heavy REE concentrations are higher in urban PM2.5, implying distinct sources of REEs in urban and suburban PM2.5. The scatter plots of δEu-∑REE and La–Ce–Sm suggest that REEs in urban PM2.5 originate from gasoline- and diesel-vehicle exhaust, whereas those in suburban PM2.5 are mainly influenced by gasoline-vehicle exhaust. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:3217–3222. © 2017 SETAC
Improving substance information in USEtox®, part 2: Data for estimating fate and ecosystem exposure factors
Authors: Saouter Erwan , Aschberger Karin , Fantke Peter , Hauschild Michael Z. , Kienzler Aude , Paini Alicia , Pant Rana , Radovnikovic Anita , Secchi Michela , Sala Serenella
Published: July 2017

The scientific consensus model USEtox® has been developed since 2003 under the auspices of the United Nations Environment Programme–Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry Life Cycle Initiative as a harmonized approach for characterizing human and freshwater toxicity in life cycle assessment and other comparative assessment frameworks. Using physicochemical substance properties, USEtox quantifies potential human toxicity and freshwater ecotoxicity impacts by combining environmental fate, exposure, and toxicity effects information, considering multimedia fate and multipathway exposure processes. The main source to obtain substance properties for USEtox 1.01 and 2.0 is the Estimation Program Interface (EPI Suite™) from the US Environmental Protection Agency. However, since the development of the original USEtox substance databases, new chemical regulations have been enforced in Europe, such as the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) and the Plant Protection Products regulations. These regulations require that a chemical risk assessment for humans and the environment is performed before a chemical is placed on the European market. Consequently, additional physicochemical property data and new toxicological endpoints are now available for thousands of chemical substances. The aim of the present study was to explore the extent to which the new available data can be used as input for USEtox—especially for application in environmental footprint studies—and to discuss how this would influence the quantification of fate and exposure factors. Initial results show that the choice of data source and the parameters selected can greatly influence fate and exposure factors, leading to potentially different rankings and relative contributions of substances to overall human toxicity and ecotoxicity impacts. Moreover, it is crucial to discuss the relevance of the exposure factor for freshwater ecotoxicity impacts, particularly for persistent highly adsorbing and bioaccumulating substances. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:3463–3470. © 2017 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.
Diversity of functional connectivity patterns is reduced in propofol‐induced unconsciousness
Authors: Lee Heonsoo , Noh Gyu‐Jeong , Joo Pangyu , Choi Byung‐Moon , Silverstein Brian Henry , Kim Minkyung , Wang Jisung , Jung Woo‐Sung , Kim Seunghwan
Published: July 2017

Introduction

Recent evidence suggests that the conscious brain is characterized by a diverse repertoire of functional connectivity patterns while the anesthetized brain shows stereotyped activity. However, classical time‐averaged methods of connectivity dismiss dynamic and temporal characteristics of functional configurations. Here we demonstrate a new approach which characterizes time‐varying patterns of functional connectivity at the subsecond time scale.

Methods

We introduce phase‐lag entropy (PLE), a measure of the diversity of temporal patterns in the phase relationships between two signals. The proposed measure was applied to multichannel electroencephalogram (EEG), which were recorded from two distinct experimental settings: (1) propofol was administrated at a constant infusion rate for 60 min (n = 96); (2) administration of propofol by a target effect‐site concentration‐controlled infusion with simultaneous assessment of the level of consciousness (n = 10).

Results

From the first dataset, two substantial changes of the phase relationship during anesthesia was found: (1) the dynamics of the phase relationship between frontal channels became progressively less diverse and more stereotyped during unconsciousness, quantified as a reduction in PLE; and (2) the reduction in PLE was consistent across subjects. Furthermore, PLE provided better performance in the classification of states of consciousness than did phase‐lag index, a classical time‐averaged connectivity method. From the second dataset, PLE showed the highest agreement with the level of consciousness, compared to existing anesthetic depth indicators.

Conclusions

This study suggests that a scarcity of functional configurations is closely associated with anesthetically induced unconsciousness, and shows promise as a basis for a new consciousness monitoring system during general anesthesia. Hum Brain Mapp 38:4980–4995, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Role of ErbB/HER family of receptor tyrosine kinases in cholangiocyte biology
Authors: Pellat Anna , Vaquero Javier , Fouassier Laura
Published: July 2017

The ErbB/HER family comprises four distinct tyrosine kinase receptors, EGFR/ErbB1/HER1, ErbB2/HER2, ErbB3/HER3, and ErbB4/HER4, which trigger intracellular signals at the origin of essential cellular functions, including differentiation, proliferation, survival, and migration. Epithelial cells, named cholangiocytes, that line intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts, contribute substantially to biliary secretory functions and bile transport. Although ErbB receptors have been widely studied in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a malignancy of the biliary tract, knowledge of these receptors in biliary epithelium physiology and in non‐malignant cholangiopathies is far from complete. Current knowledge suggests a role for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in cholangiocyte specification and proliferation, and in hepatocyte transdifferentiation into cholangiocytes during liver regeneration to restore biliary epithelium integrity. High expression and activation of EGFR and/or ErbB2 were recently demonstrated in biliary lithiasis and primary sclerosing cholangitis, two cholangiopathies regarded as risk factors for CCA. In CCA, ErbB receptors are frequently overexpressed, leading to tumor progression and low prognosis. Anti‐ErbB therapies were efficient only in preclinical trials and have suggested the existence of resistance mechanisms with the need to identify predictive factors of therapy response. This review aims to compile the current knowledge on the functions of ErbB receptors in physiology and physiopathology of the biliary epithelium. (Hepatology 2018;67:762‐773).
MicroRNA 375 regulates proliferation and migration of colon cancer cells by suppressing the CTGF‐EGFR signaling pathway
Authors: Alam Khondoker Jahengir , Mo Ji‐Su , Han Seol‐Hee , Park Won‐Cheol , Kim Hun‐Soo , Yun Ki‐Jung , Chae Soo‐Cheon
Published: July 2017

MicroRNA 375 (MIR375) is significantly down regulated in human colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues; we have previously identified MIR375 as a colon cancer associated microRNA (miRNA). We identified putative MIR375 target genes by comparing the mRNA microarray analysis data of MIR375‐overexpressing cells with the candidate MIR375 target genes predicted by public bioinformatic tools. We investigated that the connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a direct target gene of MIR375. Expression of CTGF, a ligand of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), was markedly enhanced in human CRC tissues in comparison with the corresponding normal colon tissues. We demonstrated that the expression levels of molecules in EGFR signaling pathways were regulated by MIR375 in colorectal cells. Using immunohistochemistry and the xenograft of MIR375‐overexpressing colorectal cells in mice, we showed that MIR375 regulates cell growth and proliferation, angiogenesis, cell migration, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and necrosis in colon cells. Furthermore, results of MIR375 overexpression and cetuximab treatment indicated that the apoptosis and necrosis in colon cells were synergistically enhanced. Our results suggest that the down‐regulation of MIR375 modulates EGFR signaling pathways in human colorectal cells and tissues by increasing CTGF expression; therefore, MIR375 may have a therapeutic value in relation to human CRC.
International variation in the prevalence of preclinical colorectal cancer: Implications for predictive values of noninvasive screening tests and potential target populations for screening
Authors: Krilaviciute Agne , Stock Christian , Brenner Hermann
Published: July 2017

Screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) is implemented in an increasing number of countries. We aimed to assess international variation in the prevalence of preclinical CRC and the resulting variation in positive and negative predictive values (PPVs, NPVs) of existing and potential CRC screening tests in various countries. Using age‐ and sex‐specific CRC incidence data and transition rates from preclinical to clinical CRC we estimated overall and age‐ and sex‐specific prevalence of preclinical CRC in the target population aged 50–74 years in different parts of the world. These prevalence estimates were used to derive PPVs and NPVs for existing and potential noninvasive screening tests with varying levels of sensitivity and specificity. Within all regions and countries, prevalence strongly increases with age and is higher in men than in women. In addition, major variation was seen between regions and countries, with overall prevalence varying between 1 and 0.1%. As a result, PPVs are expected to strongly vary between ∼10% for men in high incidence countries, such as Australia and Germany, and 1% for women in low incidence countries, whereas NPVs are expected to be consistently well above 99%. Variation in CRC prevalence profoundly affects expected PPVs of screening tests, and PPVs should be carefully considered when decisions on screening tests and strategies are made for specific populations and health care systems. Here, we provide estimates of preclinical CRC and expected PPVs and NPVs of noninvasive screening tests, which may enhance the empirical basis for planning of population‐based CRC screening strategies.
Canal Automation for Irrigation Systems: American Society of Civil Engineers Manual of Practice Number 131
Authors: Wahlin Brian , Zimbelman Darell
Published: July 2017

Recently, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) prepared a Manual of Practice (MOP) on canal automation for irrigation systems. Formally referred to as MOP 131 Canal Automation for Irrigation Systems, this book focuses on the technical aspects of modernizing irrigation systems through the use of automated canal control systems. MOP 131 is an essential reference for professionals in agricultural and irrigation engineering, as well as owners, managers, and operators of irrigation water delivery systems.

Canal automation saves water and improves the efficiency of irrigation water supply projects or of irrigation district operations. Recent technological and engineering advances now enable more accurate control of water deliveries throughout all parts of an irrigation project. Using information collected from irrigation systems around the world in conjunction with new advances in control theory research, this MOP examines how and when to implement canal automation within the context of canal modernization. In addition, MOP 131 provides practical guidance on other aspects of canal automation, including the modernization process, constraints, and concepts; survey of irrigation physical infrastructure; SCADA systems; control operation concepts; canal hydraulic properties; automatic control methods; verification of controller performance; and implementation of control systems.

This paper provides a brief summary of MOP 131 within the context of the history and future of canal automation. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impairment of primary cilia contributes to visceral adiposity of high fat diet‐fed mice
Authors: Qiu Ni , Fang Wei‐Jin , Li Hong‐Sheng , He Zhi‐Min , Xiao Zhou‐Sheng , Xiong Yan
Published: July 2017

Deficiency of primary cilia formation by knockout kinesin family member 3A (Kif3a) in mature osteoblasts led to osteopenia and enhanced adipogenesis. Adipogenesis plays an important role in adipose tissue expansion by High‐fat‐diet (HFD) induced obesity. Whether primary cilia participate in high‐fat‐diet induced adiposity remains unclear. In this study, we found that the number and length of primary cilia and expression levels of KIF3A and intraflagellar transport 88 homolog (IFT88) mRNA and proteins reached peak on the day 3 of adipogenesis, followed by a decrease to reach low basal expression levels at day 9 when differentiated to lipid accumulating adipocytes in VAT‐SVFs derived from lean mice. The number of primary cilia was reduced by shRNA and chemical methods, leading to elevated transcripts of Pparγ, Cebp‐α, Srebp‐1, and Fasn and protein levels of PPARγ and FASN. Similar to the proadipogenic effect by the inhibition of primary cilia formation in control VAT‐SVFs, HFD caused severe reduction of primary cilia formation and enhancement of adipogenesis in VAT‐SVFs cultures. Flow cytometry analysis revealed percentage of G2/M phase cells and the protein expression of Cyclin A2 and CDK2 increased in control VAT‐SVFs by knockdown of primary cilia with shRNA or chemical methods and HFD induced obese VAT‐SVFs. In conclusion, the expression of primary cilia was in reverse correlation with adipogenic differentiation. HFD caused severe defects of primary cilia in VAT‐SVFs, leading to adipose tissue expansion by enhancement of adipogenesis through promoting cell cycle re‐entry at the early stage of adipogenesis.
The application of aptamer 5TR1 in triple negative breast cancer target therapy
Authors: Luo Shayang , Wang Shouman , Luo Na , Chen Feiyu , Hu Chun , Zhang Kejing
Published: July 2017

Chemotherapy is one of the standard strategies for treatment of breast cancer. Adriamycin (Dox) is a first‐line chemotherapy agent for breast cancer. However, the gastrointestinal reactions, myocardial toxicity and other side effects caused by Dox due to its un‐specific cytotoxicity limit the clinical treatment effect. To address this need, aptamer has been regarded as an ideal target molecular carrier. In the present study, we selected an aptamer 5TR1 that can specifically bind to the MUC1 protein which has been regarded as an important tumor biomarker, as well as a potential target in anticancer therapies. Dox was loaded on the modified 5TR1‐GC, which specifically targets breast cancer cell MDA‐MB‐231. Cell viability and apoptosis assays demonstrated that the 5TR1‐GC‐Dox exhibited target specificity of cytotoxicity in MDA‐MB‐231. Moreover, in vivo xenograft study also confirmed that 5TR1‐GC‐Dox had a more effective effect on tumor growth inhibition and induced the apoptosis of malignant tumor cells compared to Dox. We provided a novel experimental and theoretical basis for developing an aptamer targeted drug system, thus to promote the killing effect of drugs on breast cells and to reduce the damage to normal cells and tissues for breast cancer.
The performance of T‐cell Xtend reagent in increasing blood storage times for interferon gamma release assays
Authors: Li Junlian , Liu Yan , Ma Liyamu , Gu Libike , Wang Quan , Xu Miao , Ma Ruiying , Zhang Yali , Yang Zhenping , Deng Junjie , Yi Xing
Published: July 2017

Background

T‐cell Xtend (TCX) was introduced to extend the blood storage time for T‐SPOT.TB test, a widely used commercial interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) for rapid in vitro tuberculosis.

Methods

A total of 99 Uyghur suspected tuberculosis patients were recruited in this study. T‐SPOT.TB test was performed with fresh blood (controls), 36 hours delayed blood and delayed and TCX‐treated (at 36 hours) blood from each patient, respectively.

Results

White blood cells and lymphocytes proportion in peripheral blood mononuclear cells s and spot‐forming cells in positive control wells decreased significantly in delayed blood samples when compared with controls, while this decrease was not detected in TCX‐treated group. In the 58 patients with paired T‐SPOT.TB results of three groups of samples, a higher positive rate was observed in TCX‐treated group than both in controls and untreated group (41.4% vs 37.9% and 25.9%). The concordance of T‐SPOT.TB results between the treated group and controls was 0.856, whereas the agreement between controls and untreated group was unsatisfactory (0.649). In the 23 elderly patients (>70 years old) with paired T‐SPOT.TB results of controls and TCX group, treated group showed a non‐significant trend toward higher positive rate than controls (43.5% vs 26.1%, P=.22). Meanwhile, TCX treatment reduced the risk of false negative T‐SPOT.TB results in the elderly population.

Conclusion

Deterioration of blood sample caused by long storage time can be neutralized by TCX treatment. The results provide data for the utility of TCX in a novel population and in Asian region, and reveal the potential of TCX to improve the accuracy of T‐SPOT.TB test in elderly population.
Association between clinical characteristics and the diagnostic accuracy of circulating single‐molecule amplification and resequencing technology on detection epidermal growth factor receptor mutation status in plasma of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Shi Chao , Zheng Yan , Li Yin , Sun Haibo , Liu Shilei
Published: July 2017

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer‐related mortality in the world. Circulating single‐molecule amplification and resequencing technology (cSMART) can successfully detect epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, few studies have investigated the association between clinical characteristics and the diagnostic accuracy of cSMART technique in lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods

We enrolled 95 patients, which included paraffin embedded tumor tissues and matched plasma samples. Retrospectively analyzed the correlation between clinical characteristics and sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of cSMART.

Results

Of the 95 lung adenocarcinoma cancer patients, 49 (51.5%) and 40 (42.1%) harbored EGFR mutations respectively in tissue and plasma. In younger than 60 years group, sensitivity, specificity and consistency for cSMART were 81.0%, 100%, and 90.9% (P<.001). In metastasis group, sensitivity, specificity, and consistency for cSMART were 92.9%, 77.8%, and 87.0% (P=.001). By univariate analysis, younger than 60 years (OR=5.938; 95% confidence interval: 1.835‐19.210; P=.001); metastasis group (OR=4.482; 95% confidence interval: 1.432‐14.024; P=.007) were significantly correlated with a higher accuracy. By multivariate analysis, younger than 60 years (P=.003) and metastasis (P=.004) were confirmed as independent factors for diagnostic accuracy of EGFR mutation in plasma through cSMART.

Conclusion

cSMART is feasible for detection EGFR mutation in plasma when tissue is unavailable. Age and metastasis might be considered as independent factors in diagnostic accuracy of cSMART in lung adenocarcinoma.
Severity of Suicidal Ideation Matters: Reexamining Correlates of Suicidal Ideation Using Quantile Regression
Authors: Rogers Megan L. , Joiner Thomas E.
Published: July 2017

Objective

Numerous risk factors have been identified for suicidal ideation, including perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, agitation, insomnia, nightmares, cognitive anxiety sensitivity, and rumination. However, the complexity of these associations has not been well studied; the magnitude of these effects may vary at differing levels of suicidal ideation. The present study reexamined established risk factors for suicidal ideation using quantile regression, a statistical technique that calculates the effect at numerous quantiles of suicidal ideation, as opposed to the average effect across all quantiles.

Method

A sample of 354 psychiatric outpatients (61.3% female, meanage = 27.01 years, standard deviation = 10.40) completed self‐report measures of their suicidal ideation and related risk factors prior to their initial intake appointments.

Results

The relationship between each suicide risk factor and suicidal ideation was strongest at higher (.9 quantile), as opposed to nonexistent (.5 quantile) and low‐moderate (.7 quantile), levels of suicidal ideation. The interaction proposed by the interpersonal theory of suicide was significant at nonexistent and low‐moderate, but not high, levels of suicidal ideation.

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that predictors of suicidal ideation differed in magnitude at varying levels of suicidal ideation. Implications, limitations, and future research directions are discussed.
Transcription‐dependent association of HDAC2 with active chromatin
Authors: Jahan Sanzida , Sun Jian‐Min , He Shihua , Davie James R.
Published: July 2017

Histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) catalyzes deacetylation of histones at the promoter and coding regions of transcribed genes and regulates chromatin structure and transcription. To explore the role of HDAC2 and phosphorylated HDAC2 in gene regulation, we studied the location along transcribed genes, the mode of recruitment and the associated proteins with HDAC2 and HDAC2S394ph in chicken polychromatic erythrocytes. We show that HDAC2 and HDAC2S394ph are associated with transcriptionally active chromatin and located in the interchromatin channels. HDAC2S394ph was present primarly at the upstream promoter region of the transcribed CA2 and GAS41 genes, while total HDAC2 was also found within the coding region of the CA2 gene. Recruitment of HDAC2 to these genes was partially dependent upon on‐going transcription. Unmodified HDAC2 was associated with RNA binding proteins and interacted with RNA bound to the initiating and elongating forms of RNA polymerase II. HDAC2S394ph was not associated with RNA polymerase II. These results highlight the differential properties of unmodified and phosphorylated HDAC2 and the organization of acetylated transcriptionally active chromatin in the chicken polychromatic erythrocyte.
Cover Image, Volume 92, Issue 8
Authors: Eroglu Ela , Raston Colin L
Published: July 2017

The cover image, by Ela Eroglu and Colin L Raston, is based on the Mini‐review Nanomaterial processing strategies in functional hybrid materials for wastewater treatment using algal biomass, DOI: 10.1002/jctb.5188.

image
Prenatal sonographic diagnosis of nondysraphic intramedullary lipomas: A case report
Authors: Shang Ning , Ma Qiuping , Ouyang Chunyan , Zhang Jiali , Han Penghui , Yu Gang
Published: July 2017

Nondysraphic intramedullary lipomas of the spinal cord are rare, and there are currently no reports of their observation in utero. Here, we present the sonographic (US) findings in such a case. Four intraspinal hyperechoic masses were observed on US on the dorsal aspect of the fetal spine in a 30‐year‐old woman at 30 weeks' gestation. Findings were consistent with those of prenatal MRI and were confirmed on autopsy after induced abortion. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 46:278–281, 2018
Novel 4(3H)‐Quinazolinone Derivatives Containing an Isoxazole Moiety: Design, Synthesis, and Bioactivity Evaluation
Authors: Xiang Wang , Cheng‐hao Tang , Guo‐lan Wei , Jie‐feng Long
Published: July 2017

The aim of the present study is to design and synthesize a series of novel 4(3H)‐quinazolinone derivatives containing an isoxazole moiety and evaluate their antifungal activity against Gibberella zeae (G. zeae), Fusarium oxysporum (F. oxysporum), Cytospora mandshurica (C. mandshurica), Phytophthora infestans (P. infestans), and Pellicularia sasakii (P. sasakii), and their antibacterial activity against Ralstonia solanacearum (R. solanacearum) and Xanthomomu oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo). Bioassay results showed that the target compounds 8a–8o had certain antifungal activities against the test fungus at the concentration of 50 μg/mL, which were lower than those of Hymexazol and Epoxiconazole. Meanwhile, preliminary bioassay results showed that compounds 8a–8o had better antibacterial activity against R. solanacearum and Xoo at 200 and 100 μg/mL. In particular, compound 8i exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Xoo in vitro, with an inhibition rate of 100% at 200 μg/mL, which was superior to those of Bismerthiazol (72%) and Thiodiazole copper (35%).
Radiosynthesis and evaluation of 1‐substituted 3‐(2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐inden‐2‐yl)‐6‐(1‐ethylpropyl)‐(3R,6R)‐2,5‐piperazinedione derivatives as PET tracers for imaging the central oxytocinergic system
Authors: Marzano Carmine , Jakobsen Steen , Salinas Cristian , Tang Sac Pham , Bender Dirk , Passchier Jan , Plisson Christophe
Published: July 2017

Oxytocin is known to be implicated in a variety of functions, such as learning, stress, anxiety, feeding, and pain perception. Oxytocin is also important for social memory and attachment, human bonding, sexual and maternal behaviour, and aggression. Human disorders characterized by aberrant social interactions, such as autism and schizophrenia, may also involve abnormal oxytocin levels. GSK712043, GSK711320, and GSK664004, three antagonists exhibiting subnanomolar affinity for the human oxytocin receptor (hOTR) and high selectivity over vasopressin receptors were successfully labelled with carbon‐11 with suitable yields (0.5‐1GBq @EOS), high molar activity (275‐700 GBq/μmol), and radiochemical purities. The in vivo regional uptake of these radiotracers was determined in porcine brain. [11C]GSK711320 baseline scan showed no significant brain uptake, and limited initial uptake was observed following administration of [11C]GSK712043 or [11C]GSK664004. The [11C]GSK712043 and [11C]GSK664004 kinetics were slow and peaked at around 2%ID/L at 90 minutes post‐injection. For both tracers, the distribution of activity was homogeneous throughout the brain. All the tracers showed high uptake in the pituitary gland, especially [11C]GSK711320; however, its uptake could not be blocked by pretreatment with the known OTR antagonist, L368,899. In vivo evaluation of these candidates demonstrated that they are not suitable as central OTR PET imaging agents.
Detection of long term cellular immune response to Japanese encephalitis vaccination using IFN‐γ ELIspot assay
Authors: Zia Amreen , Singh Dharamveer , Saxena Swati , Umrao Jyoti , Baluni Manjari , Ghildiyal Sneha , Fatima Tanzeem , Shukla Mukti , Agarwal Vikas , Dhole Tapan N.
Published: July 2017

Vaccine is the most effective preventive measure against Japanese Encephalitis infection. Role of IFN‐γ expressing T cells for JE virus clearance has been described as a part of cellular immunity. Vaccine induced immunity also involve the cellular immune response, therefore the study was aimed to observe induction and persistence of IFN‐γ expressing T cells by IFN‐γ ELISpot assay. The cell count increased significantly after 28 (P < 0.0001) days post vaccination, and remained higher at all time points (day 28, day 180, day 360) when compared with prevaccination. This study will be helpful for designing future vaccination strategy and improving vaccine efficacy.
Resolution of enantiopure (S)‐1‐(1‐napthyl) ethanol from racemic mixture by a novel Bacillus cereus isolate
Authors: Ranjan Preeti , Pandey Ashok , Binod Parameswaran
Published: July 2017

Chiral intermediates have wide application and high demand in pharmaceutical, agricultural, and other biotechnological industries for the preparation of bulk drug substances or fine chemicals. (S)‐1‐(1‐napthyl) ethanol is an important synthetic intermediate of mevinic acid analog and a potential inhibitor of 3‐hydroxy methyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase enzymes which is rate limiting for cholesterol synthesis. The present study focuses on the resolution of (RS)‐1‐(1‐napthyl) ethanol using whole cell biotransformation approach. The screening of microbial strains for the specific conversion were performed by the enrichment techniques using (RS)‐1‐(1‐napthyl) ethanol. Evaluation of resolution, i.e., the enantioselective conversion of (R)‐1‐(1‐napthyl) ethanol into 1‐acetonapthone and production of (S)‐1‐(1‐napthyl) ethanol with high purity were carried out. Among the isolates, a novel strain Bacillus cereus WG3 was found to be potent for the resolution and conversion of (S)‐1‐(1‐napthyl) ethanol. This strain showed 86% conversion of (R)‐1‐(1‐napthyl) ethanol and 95% yield of S‐1‐(1‐napthyl) ethanol with 80% ee after 24 h. Further, the optimization of biotransformation reactions was carried out and the optimal parameters were found to be pH 7.0 and temperature 30 °C.
Mesoscale convective systems over the Amazon basin. Part I: climatological aspects
Authors: Rehbein Amanda , Ambrizzi Tercio , Mechoso Carlos Roberto
Published: July 2017

Mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) over the Amazon basin provide a large contribution to regional precipitation, which strongly influences the maintenance of unique ecosystems. Despite the importance of these MCSs, their characteristics are not well described in the literature. The present study uses a 14‐year long (2000–2013) data set of high‐resolution (4 km; 30 min) infrared satellite images to compile a climatology of MCSs that during the period of analysis were within the borders of the Amazon basin at some point in their lifespan. MCSs that originated over the continent and the ocean are considered separately. It is found that on average about 7200 continental and 50 oceanic MCSs occurred per year in the Amazon basin. The majority (minority) of continental (oceanic) MCSs completed their lifecycles between 3 and 5.5 h. These MCSs are studied separately from those with lifespan longer than 6 h. Continental and oceanic MCSs over the Amazon occurred primarily during austral summer and autumn–winter, respectively. The preferred regions and time for genesis of continental and oceanic MCSs are identified. The average area, propagation speed and direction of displacement for MCSs in the different stages of their lifecycle are also examined.
Offshore wind climate analysis and variability in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Soukissian Takvor , Karathanasi Flora , Axaopoulos Panagiotis , Voukouvalas Evangelos , Kotroni Vassiliki
Published: July 2017

The long‐term offshore wind characteristics in the Mediterranean Sea are assessed using the ERA‐Interim dataset for the period 1979–2014. Three main aspects of the wind climate analysis are examined in detail; the spatio‐temporal behaviour (including variability characteristics) of wind speed and direction for the annual and monthly time scale; the joint association of wind speed and direction for the annual and monthly time scale, and; the wind speed trends and wind direction changes. From this analysis, the systematic wind flow patterns are identified and the general features of the wind climatology patterns are revealed. The most typical examples of stable and intense regional winds are the Mistral (throughout the year) in the Gulf of Lion and the Etesians (during summer) in the Aegean Sea. High values of mean annual variability of wind speed occur over the western part of the basin (Balearic, Tyrrhenian and Ligurian sub‐basins) as well as over the Adriatic and N Aegean Seas, and the E Levantine Basin. Moreover, the assessment of the joint association of wind speed and direction indicates that areas with high values of linear–circular correlation are the ones characterized by intense wind climate. As regards, long‐term changes of wind speed and direction, the linear trend for the former and the angular distance for the latter variable are provided. The fastest increasing wind speed trends are observed in the Ionian, the N Tyrrhenian and N Adriatic Seas, the eastern part of the Algerian Basin up to Balearic Isl. and the western part of the S Levantine Basin while the fastest decreasing ones are observed offshore Monaco, the central Aegean and the E Alboran Seas and the N Levantine Basin. The highest values of angular variance and mean angular distances are depicted for the Ligurian, Balearic and Alboran Seas.
Last Glacial Maximum and Last Glacial–Interglacial Transition pollen record from northern NSW, Australia: evidence for a humid late Last Glacial Maximum and dry deglaciation in parts of eastern Australia
Authors: Ellerton D. , Shulmeister J. , Woodward C. , Moss P.
Published: July 2017

This paper presents the results of a palynological investigation into the late Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) and last deglaciation (ca. 20 000–9000 cal a BP) from Little Llangothlin Lagoon, in the sub‐tropics of eastern Australia. The Lagoon held permanent water during the late LGM and early deglaciation but was intermittently dry during the late deglaciation. During the late LGM, local vegetation was dominated by a sub‐alpine herbfield but the significant presence of rainforest taxa in the pollen record indicates the survival of rainforest, rainforest margin or wet sclerophyll communities close to the site. By ca. 17 000 cal a BP, open Eucalyptus forest replaced the alpine herbfield vegetation indicating that warming had commenced. Rainforest taxa disappeared at this time but re‐appeared at the end of the deglaciation. The LGM conditions are consistent with a dominant circulation system whereby persistent high pressure over eastern Australia brings onshore easterlies to this region and maintains humid conditions along the east coast and highlands of the Great Dividing Range. This is similar to modern winter circulation but the persistence of rainforest and wet sclerophyll taxa suggests an increase in easterly flow over modern conditions during the LGM. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Eu3+‐labeled IgG‐based time‐resolved fluoroimmunoassay for highly sensitive detection of aflatoxin B1 in feed
Authors: Hu Xiaofei , Yao Jingjing , Wang Fangyu , Yin Mengqi , Sun Yaning , Hu Mei , Shi Qiaoqiao , Zhang Gaiping
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a kind of toxic and carcinogenic mycotoxin. A time‐resolved fluoroimmunoassay (TRFIA) was established for quantitative detection of AFB1 in feed using Eu3+‐labeled IgG as tracer.

RESULTS

Monoclonal antibody (McAb) against AFB1 (9B11‐D7) was prepared through immunization and cell fusion and was identified as high affinity, specificity and sensibility by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The 50% inhibition value (IC50) was 0.81 ng mL−1, the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.10 ng mL−1 and detection range was 0.10–3.94 ng mL−1. Goat anti‐mouse immunoglobulin G (IgG) was modified by Eu3+‐DATT, generating Eu3+‐labeled IgG. Under optimal assay conditions, TRFIA was shown to be highly sensitive and specific in detection of AFB1. The IC50 and LOD were 94.73 pg mL−1 and 3.55 pg mL−1, respectively, and detection range was 3.55–1.11 × 103 pg mL−1. Cross‐reactivity with AFM1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2 was 31.26%, 37.6%, 127.46% and 35.74%, respectively, but zero with other analogues. In determination of AFB1 spiked in feed sample, TRFIA showed high accuracy and precision. The average recoveries ranged from 93.71% to 97.80%, and coefficient of variation was 1.25–3.73%. Good correlation between TRFIA and HPLC was demonstrated for determination of AFB1 in feeds, confirming the reliability of the developed method.

CONCLUSION

The developed TRFIA exhibited good potential for employment in the ultrasensitive detection of AFB1 in feed and could be used to determine total aflatoxins. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Distinguishment, identification and aroma compound quantification of Portuguese olive oils based on physicochemical attributes, HS‐GC/MS analysis and voltammetric electronic tongue
Authors: Tahri Khalid , Duarte Andreia A , Carvalho Gonçalo , Ribeiro Paulo A , da Silva Marco Gomes , Mendes Davide , El Bari Nezha , Raposo Maria , Bouchikhi Benachir
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

In this paper, various extra‐virgin and virgin olive oils samples from different Portuguese markets were studied. For this purpose, a voltammetric electronic tongue (VE‐tongue), consisting of two kinds of working electrode within the array, together with physicochemical analysis and headspace gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HS‐GC–MS), were applied. In addition, preliminary considerations of relationships between physicochemical parameters and multisensory system were reported.

RESULTS

The physicochemical parameters exhibit significant differences among the analyzed olive oil samples that define its qualities. Regarding the aroma profile, 14 volatile compounds were characterized using HS‐GC–MS; among these, hex‐2‐enal, hexanal, acetic acid, hex‐3‐ene‐1‐ol acetate and hex‐3‐en‐1‐ol were semi‐quantitatively detected as the main aroma compounds in the analyzed samples. Moreover, pattern recognition methods demonstrate the discrimination power of the proposed VE‐tongue system. The results reveal the VE‐tongue's ability to classify olive oil samples and to identify unknown samples based of built models. In addition, the correlation between VE‐tongue and physicochemical analysis exhibits a remarkable prediction model aimed at anticipating carotenoid content.

CONCLUSION

The preliminary results of this investigation indicate that physicochemical and HS‐GC–MS analysis, together with multisensory system coupled with chemometric techniques, presented a satisfactory performance regarding olive oil sample discrimination and identification. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Supplementation of Cerelac baby food with yeast–probiotic cocktail strains induces high potential for aflatoxin detoxification both in vitro and in vivo in mother and baby albino rats
Authors: Hamad Gamal M , Taha Tarek H , Hafez Elsayed E , Ali Safwat H , El Sohaimy Sobhy A
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Aflatoxins (AFs) are a group of toxic, nephrotoxic, hepatotoxic and carcinogenic fungal metabolites. Heat‐ and acid‐treated yeasts, probiotic bacteria and their combination were used to remove AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2 from human and animal food.

RESULTS

The in vitro study revealed that the highest removal percentage of AFs in phosphate‐buffered saline was recorded after 72 h with the yeast–probiotic coctile, reaching 95.59%. Therefore, this coctile was added to Cerelac contaminated with AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2, and the removal percentages were 8.17%, 36.12%, 44.75%, 64.72% and 93.21% after 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h of treatment, respectively. Cerelac yeast–probiotic coctile was administered to female rats and the results showed that all AFs (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2) were detected in the serum of mother rats for both AF groups III and IV. On the other hand, AFM1 and AFM2 metabolites were not observed in mothers' sera but were detected in all infants of groups III and IV. Meanwhile, AFB1, AFB2, AFG1 and AFG2 were not observed in infants' sera.

CONCLUSION

A mixture of yeast–probiotic coctile was successful in reducing the level of AF in rat sera and diminished the deleterious effect of AFs on animal health. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Diagnostic and prognostic role of SF1, IGF2, Ki67, p53, adiponectin, and leptin receptors in human adrenal cortical tumors
Authors: Babińska Anna , Pęksa Rafał , Wiśniewski Piotr , Świątkowska‐Stodulska Renata , Sworczak Krzysztof
Published: July 2017

Background

The authors have examined the immunohistochemical expression of several proteins and their relationship with adrenal cortical carcinoma (ACC) diagnosis and progression.

Materials and Methods

A total of 83 patients with benign and malignant adrenal cortex tumors operated on in a single center were included in the study. Expression of the following proteins was examined: steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1), insulin growth factor 2 (IGF2), Ki67, p53, as well as adiponectin (Adipo R1, Adipo R2), and leptin (Ob‐R) receptors.

Results

Multivariate analysis revealed that the expression of SF1, IGF2, and Adipo R1 and R2 receptors was associated with ACC diagnosis. An acknowledged proliferation marker Ki67 was related with the size of ACC and was an independent ACC diagnosis marker. The authors also assessed the relationship between immunohistochemical parameters and overall survival (OS) and disease progression. Only high IGF2 expression was associated with longer OS (P = 0.025). The most significant one for the prognosis of ACC patients was tumor resectability of the primary tumor. More favorable prognosis was found for young men (P = 0.033).

Conclusions

The presented data indicate that immunohistochemical assessment (of IGF2, SF1, Adipo R1, and R2 receptors’ expression) may be useful in making the diagnosis of uncertain ACC cases.
SLNB in cutaneous SCC: A review of the current state of literature and the direction for the future
Authors: Ahadiat Omeed , Higgins Shauna , Sutton Adam , Ly Alexandre , Wysong Ashley
Published: July 2017

The concept of the sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has been universally accepted for melanoma, however, remains controversial for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). We performed a quantitative review on 260 cases of SCC that had a SLNB. The positivity rate was found to be 14.6%. Literature was qualitatively reviewed to determine whether a positive SLNB has any bearing on prognosis in SCC cases, finding a significant relationship between poor prognosis and a positive SLN (P = 0.0082).
Impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on surgical outcomes among patients with hormone receptor positive breast cancer
Authors: Hage Andrew N. , Capriccioso Christina , Brennan Julia , Heiden Brendan , Zheutlin Alexander , Sabel Michael S.
Published: July 2017

Background

Pathologic complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is a surrogate for outcome, but not necessarily conversion to BCT eligibility. We sought to examine the impact of NACT on surgical decision making among HR+ patients.

Methods

Our IRB‐approved breast cancer database was queried for patients who underwent NACT, including the clinicopathologic data and surgeon's pre‐ and post‐NACT assessment. Surgical conversion rate (SCR) was defined as patients ineligible for BCT prior to NACT, who were given the choice following NACT.

Results

Among 289 patients, pCR rates were highest among patients with HER2‐enriched subtype (60%) and lowest in patients with luminal A disease (4%). Overall, the BCT rate was 41%, while 28% opted for bilateral mastectomy across subtypes. Despite a low pCR, the SCR was still high (54%) among patients with the luminal A subtype.

Conclusion

Despite poor pCR rates, NACT still has potential to improve surgical outcomes among hormone receptor positive patients. The surgical conversion rate is a superior measure of the impact of NACT on surgical decision making than examining BCT rates.
Sonography of the Pronator Teres: Normal and Pathologic Appearances
Authors: Créteur Viviane , Madani Afarine , Sattari Azadeh , Bianchi Stefano
Published: July 2017

The pronator teres muscle is rarely examined during a routine sonographic examination of the elbow joint. Nevertheless, it can be affected by a variety of conditions, including trauma and tumors, and can be implicated in compression of the median nerve. This pictorial essay first illustrates the anatomy and biomechanics of the pronator teres. Then we present the sonographic technique for examination, normal sonographic appearance, and anatomic variations of the pronator teres and adjacent structures as well as sonography of their main disorders. Normal and pathologic sonographic appearances are correlated with magnetic resonance imaging and radiographic results.
Osteonecrosis after intranasal injection with bevacizumab in treating hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia: A case report
Authors: Steineger Johan , Merckoll Else , Slåstad John Magnar , Eriksen Erik Fink , Heimdal Ketil , Dheyauldeen Sinan
Published: July 2017

Intranasal bevacizumab injections have been used in treating hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT)‐related epistaxis since 2009. It is believed to be a safe and effective treatment for a selected group of HHT patients in reducing frequency and intensity of epistaxis, with few or none adverse effects. In this case report, however, we will describe a patient who developed bilateral osteonecrosis in the knees while undergoing regular intranasal submucosal bevacizumab injections. Although osteonecrosis previously has been documented in patients receiving bevacizumab intravenously in oncologic doses, thus far it has not been reported in patients treated with intranasal submucosal injections. Laryngoscope, 128:593–596, 2018