bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ações autocompassivas e comportamento alimentar perturbado em mulheres: O efeito mediador da apreciação da imagem corporal
Authors: Máximo Andreia , Ferreira Cláudia , Marta-Simões Joana
Published: February 2019

Objetivo: O objetivo do presente estudo foi testar o efeito mediador da apreciação da imagem corporal na associação entre motivações e ações autocompassivas e o comportamento alimentar perturbado.Métodos: Participaram neste estudo 360 mulheres da população geral, com idades compreendidas entre os 18 e os 50 anos, que completaram numa plataforma online medidas de autorrelato para avaliar as motivações e ações autocompassivas, a apreciação da imagem corporal e a sintomatologia associada à psicopatologia alimentar. Foram conduzidas análises descritivas e de correlação entre as variáveis em estudo. Adicionalmente, foi testado um modelo de análise de vias (path analysis) que hipotetizou que a associação entre ações autocompassivas e a adoção de atitudes e comportamentos alimentares perturbados é mediada pela capacidade de aceitar e apreciar a imagem corporal.Resultados: Os resultados revelaram associações positivas entre as motivações e ações autocompassivas e a apreciação da imagem corporal, e negativas entre a apreciação corporal e os sintomas associados ao comportamento alimentar perturbado. Os resultados da análise de vias (path analysis) revelaram um efeito negativo indireto entre ações autocompassivas e o comportamento alimentar perturbado através da apreciação da imagem corporal, que explicou 48% da variância do comportamento alimentar perturbado.Conclusões: Estes resultados sugerem que as ações autocompassivas exercem um efeito protetor no comportamento alimentar através de níveis mais altos de apreciação e respeito em relação à imagem corporal, não obstante o peso, forma ou imperfeições. A capacidade de agir de acordo com as motivações autocompassivas parece contribuir para níveis mais elevados de apreciação face às caraterísticas únicas da imagem corporal, a qual se reflete numa menor adoção de atitudes e comportamentos alimentares perturbados. Este estudo representa um importante contributo para a investigação e prática clínica, e sublinha a importância da inclusão de estratégias de desenvolvimento de competências autocompassivas e de apreciação da imagem corporal em programas de prevenção e intervenção na área da psicopatologia alimentar.
CNTN5-/+or EHMT2-/+human iPSC-derived neurons from individuals with autism develop hyperactive neuronal networks
Authors: Deneault Eric , Faheem Muhammad , White Sean H , Rodrigues Deivid C , Sun Song , Wei Wei , Piekna Alina , Thompson Tadeo , Howe Jennifer L , Chalil Leon , Kwan Vickie , Walker Susan , Pasceri Peter , Roth Frederick P , Yuen Ryan KC , Singh Karun K , Ellis James , Scherer Stephen W
Published: February 2019

Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons are increasingly used to model Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which is clinically and genetically heterogeneous. To study the complex relationship of penetrant and weaker polygenic risk variants to ASD, ‘isogenic’ iPSC-derived neurons are critical. We developed a set of procedures to control for heterogeneity in reprogramming and differentiation, and generated 53 different iPSC-derived glutamatergic neuronal lines from 25 participants from 12 unrelated families with ASD. Heterozygous de novo and rare-inherited presumed-damaging variants were characterized in ASD risk genes/loci. Combinations of putative etiologic variants (GLI3/KIF21A or EHMT2/UBE2I) in separate families were modeled. We used a multi-electrode array, with patch-clamp recordings, to determine a reproducible synaptic phenotype in 25% of the individuals with ASD (other relevant data on the remaining lines was collected). Our most compelling new results revealed a consistent spontaneous network hyperactivity in neurons deficient for CNTN5 or EHMT2. The biobank of iPSC-derived neurons and accompanying genomic data are available to accelerate ASD research.

Editorial note: This article has been through an editorial process in which authors decide how to respond to the issues raised during peer review. The Reviewing Editor's assessment is that all the issues have been addressed (see decision letter).
Defining host–pathogen interactions employing an artificial intelligence workflow
Authors: Fisch Daniel , Yakimovich Artur , Clough Barbara , Wright Joseph , Bunyan Monique , Howell Michael , Mercer Jason , Frickel Eva
Published: February 2019

For image-based infection biology, accurate unbiased quantification of host–pathogen interactions is essential, yet often performed manually or using limited enumeration employing simple image analysis algorithms based on image segmentation. Host protein recruitment to pathogens is often refractory to accurate automated assessment due to its heterogeneous nature. An intuitive intelligent image analysis program to assess host protein recruitment within general cellular pathogen defense is lacking. We present HRMAn (Host Response to Microbe Analysis), an open-source image analysis platform based on machine learning algorithms and deep learning. We show that HRMAn has the capacity to learn phenotypes from the data, without relying on researcher-based assumptions. Using Toxoplasma gondii and Salmonella enterica Typhimurium we demonstrate HRMAn’s capacity to recognize, classify and quantify pathogen killing, replication and cellular defense responses. HRMAn thus presents the only intelligent solution operating at human capacity suitable for both single image and high content image analysis.

Editorial note: This article has been through an editorial process in which the authors decide how to respond to the issues raised during peer review. The Reviewing Editor's assessment is that all the issues have been addressed (see decision letter).
Overriding FUS autoregulation in mice triggers gain-of-toxic dysfunctions in RNA metabolism and autophagy-lysosome axis
Authors: Ling Shuo-Chien , Dastidar Somasish Ghosh , Tokunaga Seiya , Ho Wan Yun , Lim Kenneth , Ilieva Hristelina , Parone Philippe A , Tyan Sheue-Houy , Tse Tsemay M , Chang Jer-Cherng , Platoshyn Oleksandr , Bui Ngoc B , Bui Anh , Vetto Anne , Sun Shuying , McAlonis-Downes Melissa , Han Joo Seok , Swing Debbie , Kapeli Katannya , Yeo Gene W , Tessarollo Lino , Marsala Martin , Shaw Christopher E , Tucker-Kellogg Greg , La Spada Albert R , Lagier-Tourenne Clotilde , Da Cruz Sandrine , Cleveland Don W
Published: February 2019

Mutations in coding and non-coding regions of FUS cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The latter mutations may exert toxicity by increasing FUS accumulation. We show here that broad expression within the nervous system of wild-type or either of two ALS-linked mutants of human FUS in mice produces progressive motor phenotypes accompanied by characteristic ALS-like pathology. FUS levels are autoregulated by a mechanism in which human FUS downregulates endogenous FUS at mRNA and protein levels. Increasing wild-type human FUS expression achieved by saturating this autoregulatory mechanism produces a rapidly progressive phenotype and dose-dependent lethality. Transcriptome analysis reveals mis-regulation of genes that are largely not observed upon FUS reduction. Likely mechanisms for FUS neurotoxicity include autophagy inhibition and defective RNA metabolism. Thus, our results reveal that overriding FUS autoregulation will trigger gain-of-function toxicity via altered autophagy-lysosome pathway and RNA metabolism function, highlighting a role for protein and RNA dyshomeostasis in FUS-mediated toxicity.
Fish-hunting cone snail venoms are a rich source of minimized ligands of the vertebrate insulin receptor
Authors: Ahorukomeye Peter , Disotuar Maria M , Gajewiak Joanna , Karanth Santhosh , Watkins Maren , Robinson Samuel D , Flórez Salcedo Paula , Smith Nicholas A , Smith Brian J , Schlegel Amnon , Forbes Briony E , Olivera Baldomero , Hung-Chieh Chou Danny , Safavi-Hemami Helena
Published: February 2019

The fish-hunting marine cone snail Conus geographus uses a specialized venom insulin to induce hypoglycemic shock in its prey. We recently showed that this venom insulin, Con-Ins G1, has unique characteristics relevant to the design of new insulin therapeutics. Here, we show that fish-hunting cone snails provide a rich source of minimized ligands of the vertebrate insulin receptor. Insulins from C. geographus, Conus tulipa and Conus kinoshitai exhibit diverse sequences, yet all bind to and activate the human insulin receptor. Molecular dynamics reveal unique modes of action that are distinct from any other insulins known in nature. When tested in zebrafish and mice, venom insulins significantly lower blood glucose in the streptozotocin-induced model of diabetes. Our findings suggest that cone snails have evolved diverse strategies to activate the vertebrate insulin receptor and provide unique insight into the design of novel drugs for the treatment of diabetes.
Extensive transmission of microbes along the gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Schmidt Thomas SB , Hayward Matthew R , Coelho Luis P , Li Simone S , Costea Paul I , Voigt Anita Y , Wirbel Jakob , Maistrenko Oleksandr M , Alves Renato JC , Bergsten Emma , de Beaufort Carine , Sobhani Iradj , Heintz-Buschart Anna , Sunagawa Shinichi , Zeller Georg , Wilmes Paul , Bork Peer
Published: February 2019

The gastrointestinal tract is abundantly colonized by microbes, yet the translocation of oral species to the intestine is considered a rare aberrant event, and a hallmark of disease. By studying salivary and fecal microbial strain populations of 310 species in 470 individuals from five countries, we found that transmission to, and subsequent colonization of, the large intestine by oral microbes is common and extensive among healthy individuals. We found evidence for a vast majority of oral species to be transferable, with increased levels of transmission in colorectal cancer and rheumatoid arthritis patients and, more generally, for species described as opportunistic pathogens. This establishes the oral cavity as an endogenous reservoir for gut microbial strains, and oral-fecal transmission as an important process that shapes the gastrointestinal microbiome in health and disease.
From venom peptides to a potential diabetes treatment
Authors: Jiráček Jiří , Žáková Lenka
Published: February 2019

Cone snails have evolved a variety of insulin-like molecules that may help with the development of better treatments for diabetes.
The running kinematics of free-roaming giraffes, measured using a low cost unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)
Authors: Basu Christopher K. , Deacon Francois , Hutchinson John R. , Wilson Alan M.
Published: February 2019

The study of animal locomotion can be logistically challenging, especially in the case of large or unhandleable animals in uncontrolled environments. Here we demonstrate the utility of a low cost unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in measuring two-dimensional running kinematics from free-roaming giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis giraffa) in the Free State Province, South Africa. We collected 120 Hz video of running giraffes, and calibrated each video frame using metatarsal length as a constant object of scale. We tested a number of methods to measure metatarsal length. The method with the least variation used close range photography and a trigonometric equation to spatially calibrate the still image, and derive metatarsal length. In the absence of this option, a spatially calibrated surface model of the study terrain was used to estimate topographical dimensions in video footage of interest. Data for the terrain models were collected using the same equipment, during the same study period. We subsequently validated the accuracy of the UAV method by comparing similar speed measurements of a human subject running on a treadmill, with treadmill speed. At 8 m focal distance we observed an error of 8% between the two measures of speed. This error was greater at a shorter focal distance, and when the subject was not in the central field of view. We recommend that future users maximise the camera focal distance, and keep the subject in the central field of view. The studied giraffes used a grounded rotary gallop with a speed range of 3.4–6.9 ms−1(never cantering, trotting or pacing), and lower duty factors when compared with other cursorial quadrupeds. As this pattern might result in adverse increases in peak vertical limb forces with speed, it was notable to find that contralateral limbs became more in-phase with speed. Considering the latter pattern and the modest maximal speed of giraffes, we speculate that tissue safety factors are maintained within tolerable bounds this way. Furthermore, the angular kinematics of the neck were frequently isolated from the pitching of the body during running; this may be a result of the large mass of the head and neck. Further field experiments and biomechanical models are needed to robustly test these speculations.
Nation-scale primary prevention to reduce newly incident adolescent drug use: the issue of lag time
Authors: Cheng Hui G. , Augustin Dukernse , Glass Eric H. , Anthony James C.
Published: February 2019

Background

There is limited evidence about the effects of United States (US) nation-level policy changes on the incidence of alcohol drinking and tobacco smoking. To investigate the potential primary prevention effects on precocious drug use and to clarify lag-time issues, we estimated incidence rates for specified intervals anticipating and lagging after drug policy enactment. Our hypotheses are (a) reductions in underage drinking or smoking onset and (b) increases of incidence at the legal age (i.e., 21 for drinking and 18 for smoking).

Methods

The study population is 12–23-year-old non-institutionalized US civilian residents. Estimates are from 30 community samples drawn to be nationally representative for the US National Surveys on Drug Use and Health 1979–2015. Estimates were year-by-year annual incidence rates for alcohol drinking and tobacco smoking by 12–23-year-olds, age by age. Meta-regressions estimate age-specific incidence over time.

Results

Incidence of underage alcohol drinking declined and followed a trend line that started before 1984 enactment of the National Minimum Drinking Age Act, but increased drinking incidence for 21 year olds was observed approximately 10 years after policy enactment. Eight years after the Synar amendment enactment, evidence of reduced smoking incidence started to emerge. Among 18 year olds, a slight increase in tobacco smoking incidence occurred about 10 years after the Synar amendment.

Conclusion

Once nation-level policies affecting drug sales to minors are enacted, one might have to wait almost a decade before seeing tangible policy effects on drug use incidence rates.
Overexpression of OsFTL10 induces early flowering and improves drought tolerance in Oryza sativa L.
Authors: Fang Maichun , Zhou Zejiao , Zhou Xusheng , Yang Huiyong , Li Meiru , Li Hongqing
Published: February 2019

Flowering time control is critically important for the reproductive accomplishment of higher plants as floral transition can be affected by both environmental and endogenous signals. Flowering Locus T-like (FTL) genes are major genetic determinants of flowering in plants. In rice, 13 OsFTL genes have been annotated in the genome and amongst them, Hd3a (OsFTL2) and RFT1 (OsFTL3) have been studied extensively and their functions are confirmed as central florigens that control rice flowering under short day and long day environment, respectively. In this report, a rice OsFTL gene, OsFTL10, was characterized, and its function on flowering and abiotic stress was investigated. The expression level of OsFTL10 was high in young seedlings and shown to be induced by GA3 and drought stress. Overexpression of OsFTL10 resulted in earlier flowering in rice plants by up to 2 weeks, through up-regulation of the downstream gene OsMADS15. OsFTL10 also regulated Ehd1 and OsMADS51 through a feedback mechanism. The OsFTL10 protein was also detected in both nucleus and cytoplasm. Furthermore, yeast two hybrid (Y2H) and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) results show that OsFTL10 could interact with multiple 14-3-3s, suggesting that OsFTL10 might function in a similar way to Hd3a in promoting rice flowering by forming a FAC complex with 14-3-3, and OsFD1. Further experiments revealed that constitutive expression of OsFTL10 improved the drought tolerance of transgenic plants by stimulating the expression of drought responsive genes. These results suggest that rice FTL genes might function in flowering promotion and responses to environmental signals.
A Tribute to Most Respected Ophthalmic Author - Mr. Jack J. Kanski (1939-2019)
Authors: Pandey Suresh K. , Sharma Vidushi
Published: February 2019

World renowned ophthalmologist, famous author, Mr. Jack J. Kanski (FRCS, FRCOphth) passed away on January 5, 2019 at the age of 79 years. With his demise, there is end of an era and a great loss to the world of ophthalmology. Mr. Kanski was one of the most respected authors and few authors have left behind such a vast legacy. Generations of ophthalmologists learned and are still learning from Mr. Kanski’s works and his tremendous books. Ophthalmology professionals and optometrists around-the-world will remember Mr. Kanski forever. As one of the most popular contemporary author of ophthalmic texts, Mr. Kanski will be sadly missed, but his work will live on indefinitely.
Postsurgical Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer and Macular Thickness Analysis by Optical Coherence Tomography in Hypermature Cataract of Presenile Patients
Authors: Siddique Mir Alam , Sarma Arup Jyoti Dev , Hasan Kamal , Sultana Nasima , Ahmed Sultana Jesmin
Published: February 2019

Purpose:

To study the changes in retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and fast macular thickness (FMT) after cataract surgery in presenile patients with hypermature cataract.

Methods:

It was a clinical randomized study in 157 eyes of 157 patients who underwent uneventful cataract surgery with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation performed by a single surgeon. All patients were aged between 40-55 years. One group underwent phacoemulsification (PHACO) procedure and the other group underwent small incision cataract surgery (SICS) procedure. The operated eyes were examined on the preoperative day, 1st postoperative day, 2nd week, 6th week, 12th week and 24th week after surgery using FMT and RNFL protocol of optical coherence tomography (OCT). Patients having any other eye diseases were excluded from the study.

Results:

Macular thickness after PHACO and SICS were found to be highest at 6th post operative week, with a mean average value of 227.45±26.46µm and 206.71±25.36µm in SICS and PHACO group respectively. Small incision cataract surgery group had significantly higher thickness than the phacoemulsification group (p=0.001). Difference of RNFL thickness between PHACO and SICS was found to be highest during 6th week follow up (p=0.001), with a mean average value of 94.65±16.82µm and 92.21±16.66µm respectively.

Conclusion:

This novel study reveals that surgery on hypermature cataract of presenile patients affects the RNFL and macular thickness. These changes are highest during the 6th postoperative week, resolving gradually towards the 24th postoperative week. There is a significant difference in postoperative increase in macular and RNFL thickness between SICS and phacoemulsification surgery procedures, both being significantly higher in the SICS group than the phacoemulsification group, the highest difference being at 6th postoperative week. It indicates PHACO to be a preferable surgery in presenile hypermature cataract with regard to postoperative increase in macular and RNFL thickness.
A Clinical Profile of Causes of Visual Impairment at an Urban Health Centre in Goa
Authors: Cacodcar Jagadish A. , Usgaonkar Ugam , Raiturcar Tanvi Poy , Dhupdale Nitin
Published: February 2019

Background:

Many studies have been conducted in urban areas in other Indian states to study the profile of causes of visual impairment; however, such a study was lacking in Goa.

Methods:

The study was conducted between January to March 2018, after Institutional ethical committee approval. The study population included 200 patients residing in households registered under the urban health centre in Santa Cruz Goa, who attended the Ophthalmology speciality outreach clinic. After informed consent, patients were interviewed based on a pre-tested proforma. Socio-demographic details and history was obtained and a detailed ophthalmic examination was done.

Results:

42.5% were between 41-60 years of age, 75% used LPG as fuel; 44% participants had completed higher secondary education or graduation while only 4.5% were illiterate. 77% had no visual impairment, visual impairment Grade 1 and 2 was present in 14.5% and 4% respectively. 4.5% were grouped as blind. 87.5% had refractive errors, 0.5% had corneal opacities, 20% had cataract, 4% had glaucoma, 2% had optic atrophy, 7% had retinal and macular involvement.

Conclusion:

A high prevalence of refractive errors and cataract was noted, which are both causes of preventable blindness and can only be prevented by creating awareness by means of health education.
Questioning the Social Norms Approach for Alcohol Reduction in First-Year Undergraduate Students–A Canadian Perspective
Authors: Narain Tasha A. , Stuart Heather , Krupa Terry , Stewart Sherry , Dobson Keith
Published: February 2019

The social norms approach to changing excessive drinking behaviour is predicated upon findings that overestimations of peer drinking predict one’s own drinking behaviour. Prior studies have yet to examine whether such social norms effects pertain equally to both genders. First-year students from a Canadian university (N = 1,155; 696 males, 459 females) were assessed for the relationship between misperceived drinking norms and hazardous drinking using the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test-Consumption scale (AUDIT-C). A significant positive relationship between the overestimated drinking frequency norm and hazardous drinking was determined for female students, where the odds of hazardous drinking increased by 1.92 (95% CI: 1.32–2.79) when the norm of other female students was overestimated. A non-significant association was found for male students, where the odds of hazardous drinking were unrelated to overestimation of the drinking norm of other male students. The null association for male students highlights a potential problem when using social norms interventions for alcohol reduction for males in the university context. Implications of these results for the utilization of the social norms approach to alcohol reduction are discussed.
Marijuana as treatment for OUDs? Most medical experts say no
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2019

Gov. Andrew Cuomo of New York has added opioid use disorders (OUDs) to the list of approved conditions for which medical marijuana could be prescribed in the state, following the lead last month of New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, who limited such use as an “adjunct” to medications like methadone and buprenorphine (see ADAW, Jan. 28).
How STR and SOR grants helped ‘Dark Ages’ rural Iowa add MAT
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2019

The State Targeted Response (STR) and State Opioid Response (SOR) grants from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration have helped rural Iowa tremendously, by increasing the capacity for treatment with methadone and buprenorphine.
Pharmacy model for methadone, NAS link to demographics
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2019

In “Methadone Matters: What the United States Can Learn from the Global Effort to Treat Opioid Addiction,” senior author Jeffrey H. Sabet, M.D., and colleagues write about the lack of access to methadone treatment, in particular, for opioid use disorder (OUD) in the United States. They look at three pharmacy‐based models that exist in other countries. In their article, published online Feb. 6 in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, they promote the model of patients picking up methadone from pharmacies, as is done in, for example, Canada. The study was funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (from the United States) and cited by many as a call to reform the current opioid treatment program (OTP) system in the United States, where patients often prefer buprenorphine simply because they don't have to abide by methadone regulations.
A Multimaterial Microphysiological Platform Enabled by Rapid Casting of Elastic Microwires
Authors: Zhao Yimu , Wang Erika Yan , Davenport Locke Huyer , Liao Yin , Yeager Keith , Vunjak‐Novakovic Gordana , Radisic Milica , Zhang Boyang
Published: February 2019

Due to escalating drug developmental costs and limitations of cardiotoxicity screening, there is an urgent need to develop robust in vitro 3D tissue culture platforms that can both facilitate the culture of human cardiac tissues and provide noninvasive functional readouts predictive of cardiotoxicity in clinical settings. However, such platforms commonly require complex fabrication procedures that are difficult to scale up to high‐throughput testing platforms. Here, innovative multimaterial processing into a scalable and functional platform is proposed in the format of a 96‐well plate. Three classes of materials are integrated into the platform. An array of soft elastic microwires is used both as anchors for tissue formation as well as sensors for recording tissue contraction. Conductive carbon electrodes are embedded into the plate to drive electrical stimulation for tissue maturation and pace tissue contraction during drug testing. The bulk of the device is made of rigid polystyrene plastic to eliminate drug‐absorbing polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The platform has higher throughput than the current state‐of‐the‐art devices, at a significantly reduced cost of manufacturing and tissue production.
Chinese consumers’ preferences for quality signals on fresh milk: Brand versus certification
Authors: Ding Yulian , Veeman Michele M.
Published: February 2019

This study examines the influences of brand and certification on Chinese consumers’ choices of fresh milk products. Specifically, we examine interrelationships between brand and certification for fresh milk and how trust and consumption habits affect consumers’ reactions to these different quality signals. Our results show that Chinese consumers tend to buy branded rather than unbranded fresh milk products and that fresh milk carrying quality certifications is also preferred. We find evidence of both substitution and complementary effects between brands and certifications. Results from a latent class model reveal three latent consumer groups for fresh milk: brand/certification seekers, price‐sensitive shoppers, and habitual buyers. Habitual buyers are loyal to the brand they most frequently purchase, whereas respondents who exhibit higher levels of trust and education are more likely to be brand/certification seekers. [EconLit Citations: Q13; D12].
Formation of heart‐shaped cavern model in stirring pseudoplastic fluid with the impeller of perturbed six‐bend‐blade turbine
Authors: Luan Deyu , Chen Yiming , Wang Hong , Wang Zhaorui , Wang Songsong , Li Longbin
Published: February 2019

The cavern characteristics of xanthan gum solution stirred with the impeller of perturbed six‐bend‐blade turbine (6PBT impeller) were studied based on CFD laminar flow model. The heart‐shaped cavern model was presented for predicting the cavern development accurately, and the predicted results were made a contrastive analysis with that of other existing cavern models. Results showed that the calculated values agreed well with the data measured by PIV, which validated the laminar flow model. The correction coefficient k = 0.64 is more suitable to revise the characteristic parameter a in the equation of the heart‐shaped cavern model. As a result, the heart‐shaped model always keeps high prediction accuracy at the cavern boundary. The cavern boundary curves predicted by the heart‐shaped model are in good agreement with the results of CFD simulation, and the cavern development along the axial height can be also realistically exhibited. The heart‐shaped cavern model will contribute to increase the prediction accuracy of cavern development.
Xq22.3q23 microdeletion harboring TMEM164 and AMMECR1 genes: Two case reports confirming a recognizable phenotype with short stature, midface hypoplasia, intellectual delay, and elliptocytosis
Authors: Poreau Brice , Ramond Francis , Harbuz Radu , Satre Véronique , Barro Claire , Vettier Claire , Adouard Véronique , Thevenon Julien , Jouk Pierre‐Simon , Coutton Charles , Touraine Renaud , Dieterich Klaus
Published: February 2019

The AMME syndrome defined as the combination of Alport syndrome, intellectual disability, midface hypoplasia, and elliptocytosis (AMME) is known to be a contiguous gene syndrome associated with microdeletions in the region Xq22.3q23. Recently, using exome sequencing, missense pathogenic variants in AMMECR1 have been associated with intellectual disability, midface hypoplasia, and elliptocytosis. In these cases, AMMECR1 gene appears to be responsible for most of the clinical features of the AMME syndrome except for Alport syndrome. In this article, we present two unrelated male patients with short stature, mild intellectual disability or neurodevelopmental delay, sensorineural hearing loss, and elliptocytosis harboring small microdeletions identified by array‐CGH involving TMEM164 and AMMECR1 genes and SNORD96B small nucleolar RNA for one patient, inherited from their mothers. These original cases further confirm that most specific AMME features are ascribed to AMMECR1 haploinsufficiency. These cases reporting the smallest microdeletions encompassing AMMECR1 gene provide new evidence for involvement of AMMECR1 in the AMME phenotype and permit to discuss a phenotype related to AMMECR1 haploinsufficiency: developmental delay/intellectual deficiency, midface hypoplasia, midline defect, deafness, and short stature.
Synthesis, Characterisation and Antimicrobial Studies of some 2,6‐bis(1,2,3‐Triazol‐4‐yl)Pyridine Ruthenium(II) “Click” Complexes
Authors: van Hilst Quinn V. C. , Vasdev Roan A. S. , Preston Dan , Findlay James A. , Scottwell Synøve Ø. , Giles Gregory I. , Brooks Heather J. L. , Crowley James D.
Published: February 2019

A family of homo‐ and hetero‐leptic ruthenium(II) bis‐tridentate complexes generated from 2,6‐bis(1‐R‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)pyridine “click” ligands (R‐tripy) with either aliphatic or aromatic substituents were synthesized (35–97%). The family of compounds were tested for antimicrobial activity in vitro against both Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus, ATCC 25923) and Escherichia coli (E. coli, ATCC 25922) bacteria. The antibacterial activity showed dependence on the alkyl chain length of the [Ru(R‐tripy)2]2+ (Cl−)2 complexes, with the best activity occurring for the three complexes featuring either hexyl or heptyl substituents on the ligands. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for the most active mononuclear complex [Ru(hexyltripy)(heptyltripy)]2+ (Cl−)2 were 2 μg/mL and 8 μg/mL respectively against S. aureus and E. coli. The three most active complexes were screened against other pathogenic bacteria, including two strains of Methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA). The compounds showed good activity against the Gram positive strains (MIC=4–8 μg/mL) but were less effective against Gram negative bacteria (MIC=8–16 μg/mL). Cytotoxicity experiments with eukaryotic cells lines (cancer and skin) suggested that the R‐tripy ligands and complexes were reasonably cytotoxic (IC50=2–25 μM) and displayed little to no selectivity for bacteria over eukaryotic cells lines.
Photoinduzierte, reversible Fest‐flüssig‐Übergänge unter Verwendung photoschaltbarer Materialien
Authors: Xu Wen‐Cong , Sun Shaodong , Wu Si
Published: February 2019

Heizen und Kühlen kann reversible Fest‐flüssig‐Übergänge induzieren. Demgegenüber lassen sich in einigen neu entwickelten Azobenzolverbindungen durch athermische, photochemische Prozesse reversible Fest‐flüssig‐Übergänge auslösen. Azobenzol ist photoschaltbar: UV‐Licht induziert die trans‐zu‐cis‐Isomerisierung; sichtbares Licht oder Wärme induziert die cis‐zu‐trans‐Isomerisierung. trans‐ und cis‐Isomere haben in der Regel unterschiedliche Schmelzpunkte (Tm) oder Glasübergangstemperaturen (Tg). Wenn Tm‐ oder Tg‐Werte des trans‐ und cis‐Isomers einer Azobenzolverbindung oberhalb bzw. unterhalb der Raumtemperatur liegen, kann Licht reversible Fest‐flüssig‐Übergänge induzieren. In diesem Aufsatz stellen wir Azobenzolverbindungen vor, die photoinduzierte, reversible Fest‐flüssig‐Übergänge aufweisen, diskutieren die Mechanismen und Konstruktionsprinzipien und zeigen ihre Einsatzmöglichkeiten in heilbaren Beschichtungen, Klebstoffen, Transferdruck, Lithographie, Aktuatoren, Kraftstoffen und Gastrennung. Zum Schluss diskutieren wir die verbleibenden Herausforderungen in diesem Bereich.
Illuminating the Function of the Hydroxyl Radical in the Brains of Mice with Depression Phenotypes by Two‐Photon Fluorescence Imaging
Authors: Wang Xin , Li Ping , Ding Qi , Wu Chuanchen , Zhang Wen , Tang Bo
Published: February 2019

Depression is intimately linked with oxidative stress. As one of the most reactive and oxidative reactive oxygen species that is overproduced during oxidative stress, the hydroxyl radical (.OH) can cause macromolecular damage and subsequent neurological diseases. However, due to the high reactivity and low concentration of .OH, precise exploration of .OH in brains remains a challenge. The two‐photon fluorescence probe MD‐B was developed for in situ .OH imaging in living systems. This probe achieves exceptional selectivity towards .OH through the one‐electron oxidation of 3‐methyl‐pyrazolone as a new specific recognition site. MD‐B can be used to map .OH in mouse brain, thereby revealing that increased .OH is positively correlated with the severity of depression phenotypes. Furthermore, .OH has been shown to inactivate deacetylase SIRT1, thereby leading to the occurrence and development of depression phenotypes. This work provides a new strategy for the future treatment of depression.
Separation and Post‐Separation Parenting within Lesbian and Gay Co‐parenting (Guild Parented) Families
Authors: Gahan Luke
Published: February 2019

Gay men and lesbian women have a long history of jointly creating families and co‐parenting their children together. This qualitative study aims to explore the experiences of separation and post‐separation parenting within same‐sex parented families. This involved semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with 22 separated same‐sex parents in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and regional Victoria. An adaptive theory approach was used for the collection and analysis of the data. The paper explores data from a cohort of six participants who came from three different multi‐parent families who had experienced a separation – either their own, or that of other parents in their parenting group. The term ‘co‐parenting families’ was found to be confusing due to the different connotations within separation/divorce and same‐sex parent literature. Consequently, the term ‘guild parented families’ was created to describe these families. Participants from these multi‐parent families had very different experiences of family formation and separation compared to others within the wider separated same‐sex parent study. Separation of one or more of the parent couples within these families complicated their original plans and kinship ideals. Each of the families resolved this differently in their post‐separation arrangements. After separation, whole family narratives and/or the role of individual parents, were either questioned or revised as a way of resolving the complexity of their new kinship situation. Following separation, parents often relied on Western kinship norms that privilege biological kinship and the dual‐parent family to construct their post‐separation kinship arrangements. More awareness of families that begin with more than two parents is needed within separation research and amongst separation services and service providers.
Clasper Morphology of the Japanese Sawshark, Pristiophorus japonicus Günther, 1870 (Chondrichthyes: Elasmobranchii)
Authors: Moreira Renan A. , de Carvalho Marcelo R.
Published: February 2019

Sawsharks (Pristiophoriformes) are slender, medium‐sized sharks with elongated, saw‐like snouts, and include the monotypic Pliotrema and Pristiophorus with seven species. The phylogenetic position of sawsharks is still problematic as phylogenetic hypotheses based on morphological and molecular evidence disagree about their relationships, whether closer to batoids (morphological data) or grouped with squaliforms, angelsharks, and hexanchiforms in an all shark higher taxon (molecular data). However, many aspects of the morphology of sawsharks are poorly known. The present article describes the clasper musculature and skeleton of a sawshark (Pristiophorus japonicus); the clasper skeleton of a sawshark is described for the first time. The clasper musculature is similar to squaliforms and most batoids, whereas the clasper skeleton is similar to that found in Squatina and Squalus. However, the ventral marginal, dorsal terminal (dt), and ventral terminal cartilages are distinct and diagnostic at least for Pristiophorus japonicus. Comparisons with galeomorph sharks are necessary to further refine our conclusions in relation to the systematic significance of the clasper muscles and skeleton of the Japanese sawshark. Anat Rec, 302:1666–1670, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
miR‐618 Suppresses Metastasis in Gastric Cancer by Downregulating the Expression of TGF‐β2
Authors: Shi Ji , Gong Lijie , Chen Legao , Luo Jungang , Song Guangyuan , Xu Ji , Lv Zhenye , Tao Houquan , Xia Yingjie , Ye Zaiyuan
Published: February 2019

Recent studies have demonstrated that microRNAs regulate gene expression and are related to cancer progression. Increasing evidence shows that miR‐618 plays an important role in a variety of tumors, including thyroid carcinomas, breast cancer and lymphoma cancer. However, no studies have examined the expression or function of miR‐618 in gastric cancer (GC). In this study, we examined the effects and molecular mechanisms of miR‐618 in GC. We compared the expression levels of miR‐618 in 90 paired GC tissues and adjacent noncancerous tissues. Cell cycle, apoptosis and transwell assays were performed in GC cells with miR‐618 mimic or inhibitor in vitro. We first used quantitative PCR(qPCR) to show that miR‐618 expression levels were downregulated in GC tissues, which showed statistical significance. Next we used transwell assays to prove that miR‐618 suppressed the invasion and migration capacity of GC cells. Furthermore, screening of the miRDB and Target Scan Human databases indicated TGF‐β2 as a downstream target of miR‐618. In further research, we identified TGF‐β2 as a target gene of miR‐618 by the luciferase reporter assay. Western blot analysis confirmed that TGF‐β2 expression was inversely correlated with miR‐618 expression. In situ hybridization showed that miR‐618 expression level was downregulated in GC tissues. In conclusion, our findings suggest that miR‐618 may function as a tumor suppressor in GC and suppresses metastasis in GC by negatively regulating the transcriptional level of TGF‐β2. Anat Rec, 302:931–940, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spatial agent‐based modeling for dedicated energy crop adoption and cellulosic biofuel commercialization
Authors: Jin Enze , Mendis Gamini P. , Sutherland John W.
Published: February 2019

Dedicated bioenergy crops, such as perennial grass and short rotation trees, qualify as cellulosic biofuel feedstocks to meet the requirements for advanced biofuel according to the expanded Renewable Fuel Standard. The utilization of dedicated energy crops for cellulosic biofuels is still in the early stage, at pilot scale, and the existing cellulosic biorefineries are yet to be commercialized. This study develops an agent‐based model to simulate the spatial diffusion of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) adoption in Indiana cropland from 2015 to 2027 under various biofuel market scenarios. Results indicate that it would be economically viable to produce 1.1 billion gallons (4.2 billion liters) cellulosic ethanol from switchgrass annually in Indiana until 2023, given an average annual farm‐gate price of $123.93 t−1 for the feedstock. This study also finds that the high productivity of switchgrass can increase the adoption rates of farmers and secure a stable feedstock supply. It also reveals that the high equipment costs required for scaling up production capacity and the high variable operating cost of cellulosic biofuel production will inhibit the viability of commercializing cellulosic biofuels with a stable supply of feedstock. Financial incentives for cellulosic biofuel production have a significant impact on promoting the adoption of dedicated energy crops in Indiana. This paper provides useful insights for biorefinery development and policy making to facilitate the commercialization of cellulosic biofuels by explaining the effects of the decisions of farmers on the adoption of dedicated energy crops. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Developing scalable cultivation systems of hepatic spheroids for drug metabolism via genomic and functional analyses
Authors: Ahn Jiwon , Lee Ho‐Joon , Oh Soo Jin , Kim Wantae , Mun Seon Ju , Lee Jae‐Hye , Jung Cho‐Rock , Cho Hyun‐Soo , Kim Dae‐Soo , Son Myung Jin , Chung Kyung‐Sook
Published: February 2019

Spheroids, a widely used three‐dimensional (3D) culture model, are standard in hepatocyte culture as they preserve long‐term hepatocyte functionality and enhance survivability. In this study, we investigated the effects of three operation modes in 3D culture — static, orbital shaking, and under vertical bidirectional flow using spheroid forming units (SFUs) on hepatic differentiation and drug metabolism to propose the best for mass production of functionally enhanced spheroids. Spheroids in SFUs exhibited increased hepatic gene expression, albumin secretion, and cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) activity during the differentiation period (12 days). SFUs advantages include facilitated mass production and a relatively earlier peak of CYP3A4 activity. However, CYP3A4 activity was not well maintained under dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)‐free conditions (13–18 days), dramatically reducing drug metabolism capability. Continued shear stimulation without differentiation stimuli in assay conditions markedly attenuated CYP3A4 activity, which was less severe in static conditions. In this condition, SFU spheroids exhibited dedifferentiation characteristics, such as increased proliferation and Notch signaling genes. We found that the dedifferentiation could be overcome by using the serum‐free medium formulation. Therefore, we suggest that SFUs represent the best option for the mass production of functionally improved spheroids and so the serum‐free conditions should be maintained during drug metabolism analysis.
Paravalvular leak repair after balloon‐expandable transcatheter mitral valve implantation in mitral annular calcification: Early experience and lessons learned
Authors: Al‐Hijji Mohammed A. , El Sabbagh Abdallah , Guerrero Mayra E. , Rihal Charanjit S. , Eleid Mackram F.
Published: February 2019

Background

Treatment of hemodynamically significant mitral annular calcification (MAC) using transcatheter approaches is in the early learning phase. The occurrence of paravalvular leak (PVL) following transcatheter mitral valve in MAC is common.

Aims

To report the initial experience and techniques of percutaneous PVL closure after transcatheter valve in MAC.

Methods

This series includes five consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous PVL closure following transcatheter balloon expandable SAPIEN S3 valve in MAC.

Results

Mean patient age was 73.6 ± 5.4 years (4 [80%] female), with average Society of Thoracic Surgeons score of 8.1 ± 2.8%. Three patients had a single PVL defect while two patients had two defects; all were located at the commissural sites. Closure was performed primarily for heart failure in four patients and hemolytic anemia in one patient. Transfemoral transseptal antegrade approach and Amplatz Vascular Plug (AVP)‐II occluders were utilized in all patients. Procedure success was achieved in three patients. One patient developed significant occluder related leaflet impingement and subsequent severe prosthetic mitral regurgitation requiring a second transcatheter mitral valve in valve implantation. The procedure was aborted in one patient due to difficulty crossing PVL defect after balloon post‐dilatation of SAPIEN prosthesis with 10 mL of additional volume. There was no in hospital or 30 day mortality or the need for emergent surgery.

Conclusion

Early experience with percutaneous PVL closure of SAPIEN valve in MAC demonstrated feasibility of this approach. Careful procedure planning and monitoring for SAPIEN prosthesis leaflet impingement and frame instability is of utmost importance to increase the chances of procedural success.
Stent‐retriever thrombectomy in the treatment of infants with acute thrombosis of the superior vena cava and innominate vein
Authors: Hanser Anja , Sieverding Ludger , Hauser Till‐Karsten , Wiegand Gesa , Hofbeck Michael
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To describe the efficacy and safety of stent‐retriever thrombectomy in infants with thrombosis of the superior vena cava (SVC) and innominate vein.

Background

Thrombosis of the SVC and of the innominate vein is a potentially life threatening complication in infants during intensive care treatment following major surgical procedures. To avoid reoperations, we evaluated interventional revascularization by stent‐retriever thrombectomy.

Methods

From 2015 to 2017, five infants were diagnosed with acute thrombosis of the SVC and innominate vein following major cardiac or pediatric surgery. Using a femoral venous access and 4 or 5 French guiding catheters stent‐retriever systems (4/20 mm or 6/30 mm) were placed into the thrombus and retrieved under suction. We aimed to revascularize not only the SVC but also the innominate, jugular, and subclavian veins.

Results

Following repeated stent retrieving manoeuvers, we were able to reestablish flow in the major veins of all patients. Due to significant residual thrombotic material, we decided to perform additional balloon dilatation of the SVC and innominate vein in 3/5 patients. There were no complications related to the procedure and none of our patients required blood transfusion. Following the intervention, the patients received treatment with low‐molecular‐weight heparin. Interventional treatment achieved persistent patency of the SVC and innominate vein in all patients.

Conclusion

Stent‐retriever thrombectomy is a safe and effective method for interventional treatment of acute thrombosis of the central veins in infants. Due to the large amount of thrombotic material, it is frequently required to combine this method with balloon compression of residual thrombotic material.
High Areal Capacity Na0.67CoO2 Bundle Array Cathode Tailored for High‐Performance Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Gao Lin , Chen Si , Zhang Lulu , Yang Xueling
Published: February 2019

Sodium‐ion batteries are enjoying increasing attention as the most optimal alternative to lithium‐ion batteries, due to their advantage of cost‐effectiveness. As a typical cathode material for SIBs, layered NaxCoO2 was introduced, demonstrating a satisfactory ion diffusion efficiency. Nevertheless, the mass loading of cathode materials in most of the literature is between 0.5 and 2.0 mg cm−2. In this regard, we introduce a facile “sodiation and calcination” method, to directly build self‐supported Na0.67CoO2 bundle arrays on three‐dimensional conductive Ni foam. By this fabrication pathway, the mass loading of NaxCoO2 on Ni substrate can reach values as high as ∼10 mg cm−2. A high areal capacity of 1.66 mAh cm−2 can be achieved based on a current rate of 0.33 C with a voltage window of 2.0–3.8 V (vs Na/Na+). Intriguingly, this high mass loading Na0.67CoO2 cathode also performs with a satisfactory cyclic stability over 100 cycles at a current rate of 1.4 C, with a discharge capacity of 123.6 mAh g−1 remaining without obvious capacity fading.