bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Luminescence Spectroscopy of Rhodamine Homodimer Dications in Vacuo Reveals Strong Dye‐Dye Interactions
Authors: Kjær Christina , Lissau Henriette , Gravesen Salinas Nina Katharina , Østergaard Madsen Andreas , Stockett Mark H. , Storm Freja E. , Holm Hansen Thomas , Andersen Jens Ulrik , Laursen Bo W. , Mikkelsen Kurt V. , Brøndsted Nielsen Mogens , Brøndsted Nielsen Steen
Published: December 2018

Being alone or together makes a difference for the photophysics of dyes but for ionic dyes it is difficult to quantify the interactions due to solvent screening and nearby counter ions. Gas‐phase luminescence experiments are desirable and now possible based on recent developments in mass spectrometry. Here we present results on tailor‐made rhodamine homodimers where two dye cations are separated by methylene linkers, (CH2)n. In solution the fluorescence is almost identical to that from the monomer whereas the emission from bare cation dimers redshifts with decreasing n. In the absence of screening, the electric field from the charge on one dye is strong enough to polarize the other dye, both in the ground state and in the excited state. An electrostatic model based on symmetric dye responses (equal induced‐dipole moments in ground state) captures the underlying physics and demonstrates interaction even at large distances. Our results have possible implications for gas‐phase Förster Resonance Energy Transfer.
Hydrogen‐Release Reaction of a Complex Transition Metal Hydride with Covalently Bound Hydrogen and Hydride Ions
Authors: Sato Toyoto , Daemen Luke L. , Cheng Yongqiang , Ramirez‐Cuesta Anibal J. , Ikeda Kazutaka , Aoki Takuma , Otomo Toshiya , Orimo Shin‐ichi
Published: December 2018

The hydrogen‐release reaction of a complex transition metal hydride, LaMg2NiH7, composed of La3+, 2×Mg2+, [NiH4]4− and 3×H−, was studied by thermal analyses, powder X‐ray, and neutron diffraction and inelastic neutron scattering. Upon heating, LaMg2NiH7 released hydrogen at approximately 567 K and decomposed into LaH2−3 and Mg2Ni. Before the reaction, covalently bound hydrogen (Hc°v.) in [NiH4]4− exhibited a larger atomic displacement than H−, although a weakening of the chemical bonds around [NiH4]4− and H− was observed. These results indicate the precursor phenomenon of a hydrogen‐release reaction, wherein there is a large atomic displacement of Hc°v. that induces the hydrogen‐release reaction rather than H−. As an isothermal reaction, LaMg2NiH7 formed LaMg2NiH2.4 at 503 K in vacuum for 48 h, and LaMg2NiH2.4 reacted with hydrogen to reform LaMg2NiH7 at 473 K under 1 MPa of H2 gas pressure for 10 h. These results revealed that LaMg2NiH7 exhibited partially reversible hydrogen‐release and uptake reactions.
Tuning the Aluminum Distribution in Zeolites to Increase their Performance in Acid‐Catalyzed Reactions
Authors: Dědeček Jiri , Tabor Edyta , Sklenak Stepan
Published: December 2018

The organization of Al atoms in the framework of Si‐rich zeolites is very important and includes two classes: (i) the Al siting that determines which individual, crystallographically distinguishable framework T sites are occupied by Al atoms and (ii) the Al distribution, which describes the relation of two or more Al atoms in the framework, their distances, and the possibility of neighboring Al atoms to cooperate in the formation of active sites. The organization of Al significantly affects the catalytic properties of Si‐rich, zeolite‐based catalysts in acid and redox catalysis. Herein, what is known about the organization of Al in the framework of industrially very important pentasil‐ring Si‐rich zeolites (ZSM‐5, beta zeolite, mordenite, ferrierite, MCM‐22, and TNU‐9), as well as the very promising SSZ‐13 Si‐rich zeolite with the CHA structure, is summarized.
Electrochemical Exchange Reaction Mechanism and the Role of Additive Water to Stabilize the Structure of VOPO4⋅2 H2O as a Cathode Material for Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Hyoung Jooeun , Heo Jongwook W. , Chae Munseok S. , Hong Seung‐Tae
Published: December 2018

VOPO4⋅2 H2O is demonstrated as a cathode material for potassium‐ion batteries in 0.6 m KPF6 in ethylene carbonate/diethyl carbonate, and its distinct exchange reaction mechanism between potassium and crystal water is reported. In an anhydrous electrolyte, the cathode shows an initial capacity of approximately 90 mAh g−1, with poor capacity retention (32 % after 50 cycles). In contrast, the capacity retention dramatically improved (86 % after 100 cycles) in a wet electrolyte containing 0.1 m of additive water. VOPO4⋅2 H2O contains two types of water (structural and crystal). Upon discharge, potassium ions are intercalated whereas the crystal water is simultaneously de‐intercalated from the structure. Upon charging, a completely reverse reaction takes place in the wet electrolyte, resulting in high stability of the host structure and excellent cyclability. However, in the anhydrous electrolyte, some portion of the extracted crystal water molecules cannot be reinserted into the host structure because they are distributed over the anhydrous electrolyte. Keeping some concentration of water in the electrolyte turns out to be was the key to achieving such high reversibility. The potassium ions (90 %) and proton or hydronium ions (10 %) seem to be co‐intercalated in the wet electrolyte. This work provides a general insight into the intercalation mechanism of crystal‐water‐containing host materials.
Error and congestion control for wireless sensor networks
Authors: Stais Charilaos , Xylomenos George
Published: December 2018

In the wireless sensors network (WSN) field, a wide variety of sensors produce a heterogeneous traffic mix, targeting diverse applications with different reliability requirements. We focus on emergency response scenarios, where a mobile rescuer moves through a, possibly disconnected, network, trying to talk to diverse sensors. We assume two types of sensors, event sensors triggered by an event and periodic sensors activated at predefined time intervals, as well as two types of transmission, either using the highest bit rate available or using predefined bit rates. Our reliable transport protocol for sensor networks with mobile sinks (RT‐SENMOS) takes into account all these parameters and tries to provide the best possible user experience under the current circumstances of the network, using a sink‐driven approach where an application‐specific sink is combined with generic sensors. RT‐SENMOS was implemented and tested over a real network with emulated losses and compared against rate‐controlled reliable transport (RCRT), a well‐known sink‐driven protocol. The results show that RT‐SENMOS fully exploits the available bandwidth in all cases, while RCRT only manages to exploit 60% to 90% of it. Furthermore, RT‐SENMOS adapts much faster to prevailing network conditions, while its protocol overhead, in terms of control messages exchanged, is much lower than that of RCRT.
Performance analysis of MC‐CDMA by employing the MMSE‐PIC scheme in wireless communications
Authors: Lakshmi Prasanna Kumar Lanke , Srinivasa Murthy Kamavaram Ellore , Giri Prasad Mahendhra Nanjappa
Published: December 2018

From the past decade, the multicarrier code division multiple access (MC‐CDMA) transmission schemes have placed major role in wireless communications. It is providing a secured wireless communication to the users with guaranteed performance. In many situations, the performance of the MC‐CDMA is restricted due to the interference caused by multiple access interference (MAI), which also influences the frameworks of CDMA. To overcome this issue, we concentrated on developing the efficient technique for data transmission with interference cancellation for downlink MC‐CDMA. In the proposed method, the interference cancellation procedure is done by using the regeneration and subtraction of MAI from the signal. The simulation results are evaluated using the MC‐CDMA system with different decision functions. Results proved that the proposed system is efficient in reducing the MAI along with an improved bit error rate (BER).
Boost research options with partnerships with industries that share your interests
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: December 2018

Coral reefs around the world have degraded, and researchers at Nova Southeastern University are seeking ways to restore them. To enhance the reef‐restoration efforts, officials found a partner with a strong interest in a healthy ocean: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
Where have all the leaders gone?
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: December 2018

For more than 60 years, the topics of management and leadership have been studied and discussed among all academic disciplines and across business and industry. From Douglas McGregor's theories X and Y to Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard's situational leadership or Kurt Lewin's trait theory to more recent theorists and writers such as Peter Drucker, Jim Collins, Stephen Covey, John Maxwell, and Simon Sinek, we've been exposed to thousands of books and lectures on what makes good or great leadership. Many people get terminal degrees in management and/or leadership.
Disabled community voting bloc holds potential power
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: December 2018

LOS ANGELES — “When we embrace disability in our society, we are embracing diversity,” said Catherine Perez, director of the Loyola Marymount University's Coelho Center for Disability Law, Policy & Innovation at the center's inaugural symposium examining the civic engagement of the disabled. Perez, director of the Coelho Center, introduced the keynote speaker by stating that the event “is about love, respect, and the celebration of diversity.” The keynote presentation addressed how a politically empowered voting base made up of those in the broader disability community could have wide‐ranging implications for the future government.
Predicting ulcer‐free survival using the discriminative value of screening test locations
Authors: Rinkel Willem D. , van der Oest Mark J.W. , Dijkstra Don A. , Castro Cabezas Manuel , Coert Jan Hendrik
Published: December 2018

Background

Current guidelines recommend screening the feet of diabetic subjects with a 10‐g monofilament or tuning fork. We investigated which tests and locations on the feet have the best predictive value regarding 1‐year ulcer‐free survival in diabetic subjects participating in the prospective Rotterdam Diabetic Foot Study.

Methods

Decision tree analysis was used to predict ulcer‐free survival based on responses from individual test locations (monofilaments on 10 sites, vibration sense was tested on both halluces and medial malleoli). Separate trees for patients with and without a history of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) were developed.

Results

Four hundred sixteen subjects (mean [SD] age, 61.8 years [12.4]; range, 21.6‐90.2) were measured, of whom 24 developed new DFUs. Three tests exhibited discriminative and predictive properties: testing vibration sense on the medial malleolus and monofilament testing on heel and hallux. The decision tree to predict ulcer‐free survival in patients with a history of DFU yielded a sensitivity of 87.0%, which was 99.6% for the tree of patients without a history of DFU.

Conclusion

The findings of this study aids medical decision making by discriminating between high‐ and low‐risk patients of developing DFU using selective testing on sites with predictive properties.
Phenological synchrony between eastern spruce budworm and its host trees increases with warmer temperatures in the boreal forest
Authors: Pureswaran Deepa S. , Neau Mathieu , Marchand Maryse , De Grandpré Louis , Kneeshaw Dan
Published: December 2018

Climate change is predicted to alter relationships between trophic levels by changing the phenology of interacting species. We tested whether synchrony between two critical phenological events, budburst of host species and larval emergence from diapause of eastern spruce budworm, increased at warmer temperatures in the boreal forest in northeastern Canada. Budburst was up to 4.6 ± 0.7 days earlier in balsam fir and up to 2.8 ± 0.8 days earlier in black spruce per degree increase in temperature, in naturally occurring microclimates. Larval emergence from diapause did not exhibit a similar response. Instead, larvae emerged once average ambient temperatures reached 10°C, regardless of differences in microclimate. Phenological synchrony increased with warmer microclimates, tightening the relationship between spruce budworm and its host species. Synchrony increased by up to 4.5 ± 0.7 days for balsam fir and up to 2.8 ± 0.8 days for black spruce per degree increase in temperature. Under a warmer climate, defoliation could potentially begin earlier in the season, in which case, damage on the primary host, balsam fir may increase. Black spruce, which escapes severe herbivory because of a 2‐week delay in budburst, would become more suitable as a resource for the spruce budworm. The northern boreal forest could become more vulnerable to outbreaks in the future.
Overcompensation for insect herbivory: a review and meta‐analysis of the evidence
Authors: Garcia Loriann C. , Eubanks Micky D.
Published: December 2018

Not all herbivory is detrimental to plants. In some cases, plants can compensate for herbivory, maintain growth and fitness following damage, or even overcompensate for herbivory and perform better than if left undamaged. Examples of overcompensation to vertebrate herbivory are well known, but here we review the literature for examples of reproductive overcompensation (i.e., increased production of traits associated with fitness) and increased vegetative growth (i.e., vegetative overcompensation) following insect herbivory. We used a meta‐analysis to explore the effects of plant growth form, evolutionary history, herbivore feeding guild, and other plant and insect traits on the expression of reproductive and vegetative overcompensation by plants. Our literature search revealed 86 studies documenting examples of overcompensation for insect herbivory by 67 plant species representing 26 families. These plants included monocots and dicots, annuals and perennials, and woody and herbaceous plants. We also found that varied insect herbivores induce overcompensation, including 75 insect species in six orders representing 27 families and myriad feeding guilds. In our meta‐analysis, we calculated 53 effect sizes from 21 publications documenting reproductive overcompensation and 89 effect sizes from 40 publications documenting vegetative overcompensation. Variation in reproductive overcompensation was seen among plant growth forms, functional groups, cultivation, herbivore feeding sites, and plant and herbivore families. Variation in vegetative overcompensation was seen among plant families, herbivore families, and latitudinal gradients. We suggest overcompensation for insect herbivory may be far more prevalent than previously thought. Additional research focusing on the mechanisms, patterns, and ecological and evolutionary consequences of overcompensation for insect herbivory is likely to provide exciting new insights into this poorly understood and largely overlooked outcome of plant–insect interactions.
IL‐4 promotes stromal cell expansion and is critical for development of a type‐2, but not a type 1 immune response
Authors: Cortes‐Selva Diana , Ready Andrew , Gibbs Lisa , Rajwa Bartek , Fairfax Keke C.
Published: December 2018

IL‐4 is critical for differentiation of Th2 cells and antibody isotype switching, but our work demonstrated that it is produced in the peripheral LN under both Type 2, and Type 1 conditions, raising the possibility of other functions. We found that IL‐4 is vital for proper positioning of hematopoietic and stromal cells in steady state, and the lack of IL‐4 or IL‐4Rα correlates with disarrangement of both follicular dendritic cells and CD31+ endothelial cells. We observed a marked disorganization of B cells in these mice, suggesting that the lymphocyte‐stromal cell axis is maintained by the IL‐4 signaling pathway. This study showed that absence of IL‐4 correlates with significant downregulation of Lymphotoxin alpha (LTα) and Lymphotoxin beta (LTβ), critical lymphokines for the development and maintenance of lymphoid organs. Moreover, immunization of IL‐4 deficient mice with Type 2 antigens failed to induce lymphotoxin production, LN reorganization, or germinal center formation, while this process is IL‐4 independent following Type 1 immunization. Additionally, we found that Type 1 antigen mediated LN reorganization is dependent on IFN‐γ in the absence of IL‐4. Our findings reveal a role of IL‐4 in the maintenance of peripheral lymphoid organ microenvironments during homeostasis and antigenic challenge.
Does BaTbO3 Adopt the P1 Symmetry?
Authors: Fu Wen Tian , Ĳdo D. J. W.
Published: December 2018

A detailed profile analysis of X‐ray diffraction data in the temperature range between 100 K and 723 K was carried out to settle a recent dispute on the symmetry and crystal structures of the perovskite BaTbO3. Through careful comparison of the Rietveld refinements, we found that there is no evidence to suggest a triclinic (P1) structure for BaTbO3. The correct space groups with decreasing temperature are I4/mcm and Imma, respectively. At around room temperature both structures co‐exist. The phase sequence of “Pm3m” → I4/mcm → Imma is just the one expected to occur in A(II)B(IV)O3‐type perovskites.
Heart‐cut nano‐LC–CZE–MS for the characterization of proteins on the intact level
Authors: Jooß Kevin , Scholz Nico , Meixner Jens , Neusüß Christian
Published: December 2018

Multidimensional separation techniques play an increasingly important role in separation science, especially for the analysis of complex samples such as proteins. The combination of reversed‐phase liquid chromatography in the nanoscale and CZE is especially beneficial due to their nearly orthogonal separation mechanism and well‐suited geometries/dimensions. Here, a heart‐cut nano‐LC–CZE–MS setup was developed utilizing for the first time a mechanical 4‐port valve as LC–CE interface. A model protein mixture containing four different protein species was first separated by nano LC followed by a heart‐cut transfer of individual LC peaks and subsequent CZE–MS analysis. In the CZE dimension, various glycoforms of one protein species were separated. Improved separation capabilities were achieved compared to the 1D methods, which was exemplarily shown for ribonuclease B and its different glycosylated forms. LODs in the lower μg/mL range were determined, which are considerably lower compared to traditional CZE–MS. In addition, this study represents the first application of an LC–CE–MS system for intact protein analysis. The nano‐LC–CZE–MS system is expected to be applicable to various other analytical challenges.
Total phenolic, flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of bulbs, leaves, and flowers made from Eleutherine bulbosa (Mill.) Urb
Authors: Shi Peiqi , Du Wenjun , Wang Yuanyuan , Teng Xingxing , Chen Xiaodong , Ye Lianbao
Published: December 2018

In the current investigation, total phenols and flavonoids contents of Eleutherine bulbosa (Mill.) Urb. bulbs, leaves, and flowers were quantified by Folin–Ciocalteu's and borohydride/chloroquinone methods, respectively. Antioxidant activity of the plant extracts was evaluated by means of peroxide scavenging capacity assay and by cell antioxidation method. Antioxidant activity of E. bulbosa bulbs, leaves, and flowers was correlated with total phenols and flavonoids. The total phenols and flavonoids of the bulbs of E. bulbosa were higher than leaves and flower and its antioxidant activity was also stronger than leaves and flowers of E. bulbosa. The higher content of flavonoids or total phenols, the stronger the antioxidant capacity in vitro. The antioxidant activity of E. bulbosa extract showed it's certain nutritional value and therefore had the potential as a source of natural antioxidants.
Late Holocene sea level change along the coast of Fethiye Gulf in southwestern Turkey
Authors: Kızıldağ Nilhan
Published: December 2018

In the Fethiye Gulf on the southwest coast of Turkey, several submerged archaeological sites provide useful data about relative sea level changes since the Byzantine period. The current elevations of contemporary archaeological structures were measured to determine the amount of relative sea level change. The archaeological sea level markers in this seismically active region provide new data about the amount and period of relative sea level rise. Taking into consideration the time of the last use of the structures, instead of their time of construction, three different rates of vertical land movement of 2.18 ± 0.3, 2.96 ± 0.3, and 3.29 ± 0.5 mm/yr were estimated. These data indicate that tectonic activity differs from region to region, most likely related to local normal faults in the gulf. Recent earthquakes have confirmed active seismicity in this area. These results demonstrate that the changing sea levels in the Fethiye Gulf have been strongly influenced by vertical tectonic movement over the last 1,400 years. Results also contribute to studies of future coastal changes in the Fethiye Gulf and its surroundings.
Geochemical heterogeneity along the Vema Fracture Zone, Indian Ocean: Mixing of melts from the Reunion plume and the Central Indian Ridge
Authors: Dhawaskar Poornima , Ganguly Sohini , Mukhopadhyay Ranadhir , Manikyamba C. , Iyer Sridhar D. , Karisiddaiah Siddaiah Metikurke , Mahender Kotha
Published: December 2018

We present here a scenario of magmatic and tectonic processes associated with the interaction between the Reunion mantle plume and the mantle beneath Central Indian Ridge (CIR) at the Vema Trench (VT) along the Vema Fracture Zone (VMFZ) in the Indian Ocean. The VMFZ offsets the CIR by about 300 km between 8°S and 10°S latitudes and holds probably the deepest point in the Indian Ocean, the Vema Trench, reaching to a depth in excess of 6,500 m. The trench has a width of about 5 km and extends for about 12 km in a NE–SW direction. Petrography and major and trace element concentrations collectively suggest that the rocks recovered from the VT are largely basaltic (pillow, columnar, dikes), composed of plagioclase and clinopyroxene, much evolved, and tholeiitic to calc‐alkaline in composition. The REE signatures ([Sm/Yb vs. Sm] and [Ce/Sm]N vs. [Yb/Sm]N) hint its source to a spinel lherzolite mantle with additional input from enriched mantle (EM‐1). This EM‐1 signature generally indicates presence of recycled ancient subducted oceanic crust in the mantle domain wherefrom the plume originates. The detailed petrological and geochemical studies of these rocks suggest dynamic processes involved in transfer of deep mantle‐sourced material to mid‐ocean ridges leading to geochemical heterogeneity. Trace element ratios (Hf/3–Th–Ta and Thn vs. Nbn) also suggest that the VMFZ basalt preserves the signature of mixing of ridge melt and plume melt.
Efficacy of calcium excretion and calcium/creatinine clearance ratio in the differential diagnosis of familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia and primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Bhangu Jagdeep Singh , Selberherr Andreas , Brammen Lindsay , Scheuba Christian , Riss Philipp
Published: December 2018

Background

Twenty‐four‐hour renal calcium‐excretion (CE) and calcium/creatinine‐clearance‐ratio (CCCR), respectively, are widely used to rule out familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH) in patients with suspected primary hyperparathyroidism before surgery. The aim was to evaluate the practicability of CE compared to CCCR.

Patients and Methods

We analyzed biochemical parameters, surgical treatment, gene mutation results, and long‐term follow‐up data of 198 patients (including 14 patients with FHH) and the discriminative power of CE and CCCR.

Results

Twenty four patients (12.1%) had a low CE and 35 patients (20.2%) had a CCCR indicating FHH. However, eight patients with FHH (57.1%) had a normal or increased CE. Correspondingly, only eight cases of FHH (57.1%) were correctly predicted by CCCR. Sensitivity/specificity were 42.9%/89.9% for CE and 64.3%/79.9% for CCCR, showing no statistical differences (P = 0.482) between both methods.

Conclusion

Neither CE nor CCCR was able to distinguish between PHPT and FHH but may help to narrow down potential FHH patients.
Differential effects of corticosteroids and anti‐TNF on tumor‐specific immune responses: implications for the management of irAEs
Authors: Draghi Arianna , Borch Troels Holz , Radic Haja Dominike , Chamberlain Christopher Aled , Gokuldass Aishwarya , Svane Inge Marie , Donia Marco
Published: December 2018

Up to 60% of patients treated with cancer immunotherapy develop severe or life threatening immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). Immunosuppression with high dose corticosteroids, or tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists in refractory cases, is the mainstay of treatment for irAEs. It is currently unknown what impact corticosteroids and anti‐TNF have on the activity of antitumor T cells. In our study, the influence of clinically relevant doses of dexamethasone (corresponding to an oral dose of 10–125 mg prednisolone) and infliximab (anti‐TNF) on the activation and killing ability of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) was tested in vitro. Overall, dexamethasone at low or intermediate/high doses impaired the activation (−46 and −62%, respectively) and tumor‐killing ability (−48 and −53%, respectively) of tumor‐specific TILs. In contrast, a standard clinical dose of infliximab only had a minor effect on T cell activation (−20%) and tumor killing (−10%). A 72‐hr resting period after withdrawal of dexamethasone was sufficient to rescue the in vitro activity of TILs, while a short withdrawal did not result in a full rescue. In conclusion, clinically relevant doses of infliximab only had a minor influence on the activity of tumor‐specific TILs in vitro, whereas even low doses of corticosteroids markedly impaired the antitumor activity of TILs. However, the activity of TILs could be restored after withdrawal of steroids. These data indirectly support steroid‐sparing strategies and early initiation of anti‐TNF therapy for the treatment of irAEs in immuno‐oncology.
The multikinase inhibitor EC‐70124 synergistically increased the antitumor activity of doxorubicin in sarcomas
Authors: Estupiñan Oscar , Santos Laura , Rodriguez Aida , Fernandez‐Nevado Lucia , Costales Paula , Perez‐Escuredo Jhudit , Hermosilla Maria Ana , Oro Patricia , Rey Veronica , Tornin Juan , Allonca Eva , Fernandez‐Garcia Maria Teresa , Alvarez‐Fernandez Carlos , Braña Alejandro , Astudillo Aurora , Menendez Sofia T , Moris Francisco , Rodriguez Rene
Published: December 2018

Cytotoxic drugs like doxorubicin remain as the most utilized agents in sarcoma treatment. However, advanced sarcomas are often resistant, thus stressing the need for new therapies aimed to overcome this resistance. Multikinase inhibitors provide an efficient way to target several pro‐tumorigenic pathways using a single agent and may constitute a valuable strategy in the treatment of sarcomas, which frequently show an aberrant activation of pro‐tumoral kinases. Therefore, we studied the antitumor activity of EC‐70124, an indolocarbazole analog that have demonstrated a robust ability to inhibit a wide range of pro‐survival kinases. Evaluation of the phospho‐kinase profile in cell‐of‐origin sarcoma models and/or sarcoma primary cell lines evidenced that PI3K/AKT/mTOR, JAK/STAT or SRC were among the most highly activated pathways. In striking contrast with the structurally related drug midostaurin, EC‐70124 efficiently prevented the phosphorylation of these targets and robustly inhibited proliferation through a mechanism associated to the induction of DNA damage, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. In addition, EC‐70124 was able to partially reduce tumor growth in vivo. Importantly, this compound inhibited the expression and activity of ABC efflux pumps involved in drug resistance. In line with this ability, we found that the combined treatment of EC‐70124 with doxorubicin resulted in a synergistic cytotoxic effect in vitro and an increased antitumor activity of this cytotoxic drug in vivo. Altogether, these results uncover the capability of the novel multikinase inhibitor EC‐70124 to counteract drug resistance in sarcoma and highlight its therapeutic potential when combined with current treatments.
Early childhood predictors of boys’ antisocial and violent behavior in early adulthood
Authors: Sitnick Stephanie L. , Galán Chardée A. , Shaw Daniel S.
Published: December 2018

Research on early childhood predictors of violent behaviors in early adulthood is limited. The current study investigated whether individual, family, and community risk factors from 18 to 42 months of age were predictive of violent criminal arrests during late adolescence and early adulthood using a sample of 310 low‐income male participants living in an urban community. In addition, differences in trajectories of overt conduct problems (CP), hyperactivity/attention problems (HAP), and co‐occurring patterns of CP and HAP from age 1½ to 10 years were investigated in regard to their relationship to violent and nonviolent behaviors, depression, and anxiety at age 20. Results of multivariate analyses indicated that early childhood family income, home environment, emotion regulation, oppositional behavior, and minority status were all significant in distinguishing violent offending boys from those with no criminal records. In addition, trajectories of early childhood CP, but not attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, were significantly related to self‐reports of violent behavior, depressive symptoms, and anxiety symptoms. Implications for the prevention of early childhood risk factors associated with adolescent and adult violent behavior for males are discussed.
Ginsenoside Rd Inhibits the Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer via Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Signaling Axis
Authors: Phi Lan Thi Hanh , Sari Ita Novita , Wijaya Yoseph Toni , Kim Kwang Seock , Park Kichul , Cho Art E. , Kwon Hyog Young
Published: December 2018

Ginsenoside Rd is a saponin from ginseng and has been reported to have various biological activities. However, the effect of ginsenoside Rd on the metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unknown. Here, we found that ginsenoside Rd decreased the colony‐forming ability, migration, invasion, and wound‐healing abilities of CRC cells, although it did not affect cell proliferation. In addition, using an inverse‐docking assay, we found that ginsenoside Rd bound to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) with a high binding affinity, inducing the downregulation of stemness‐ and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition‐related genes; these were partially rescued by either exogenous EGF treatment or ectopic expression of SOX2. Furthermore, ginsenoside Rd significantly decreased the number and size of tumor metastasis nodules in the livers, lungs, and kidneys of mouse model of metastasis. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 71(5):601–610, 2019
Regulation of NRF2, AP‐1 and NF‐κB by cigarette smoke exposure in three‐dimensional human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Sekine Takashi , Hirata Tadashi , Ishikawa Shinkichi , Ito Shigeaki , Ishimori Kanae , Matsumura Kazushi , Muraki Katsuhiko
Published: December 2018

Cigarette smoke (CS) is a complex mixture of chemicals and interacts with various physiological processes. We previously reported that nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (NRF2) was the most sensitive transcription factor to aqueous CS extract (AqCSE) exposure in monolayer cultured human bronchial epithelial cell lines. Recently, in vitro three‐dimensional (3D) culture models have been used to supplement pharmacological and toxicological assessments. Bronchial epithelium models in particular are useful for the evaluation of substances that directly contact the respiratory tract, such as CS. In the present study, we used 3D‐cultured human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs) to assess activation of transcription factors and relevant gene expression in response to AqCSE, primarily focusing on NRF2 and nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) pathways. The 3D‐cultured HBECs exposed to AqCSE showed expression of NRF2 and its nuclear translocation in addition to upregulation of genes related to oxidative stress. Our results suggest that the NRF2 pathway was the dominant pathway when 3D‐cultured HBECs were exposed to AqCSE at a low dose, supporting our previous findings that NRF2 was the most sensitive transcription factor in response to AqCSE. Expression and nuclear translocation of NF‐κB were not increased, although proinflammatory genes were upregulated. However, another inflammation‐related transcription factor, activation protein 1, was induced by AqCSE. Gene classification analysis suggested that induction of the inflammatory response by AqCSE was dependent on NRF2 and activation protein 1 rather than NF‐κB.
Reconstruction of mandibular bone defects using biphasic calcium phosphate bone substitutes with simultaneous implant placement in mini‐swine: A pilotin vivostudy
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Wang Peng , Li Xiang , Wang Yu , Qin Zhifan , Zhang Chenping , Li Jihua
Published: December 2018

This study aimed to investigate implant osseointegration using a new strategy of biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) bone substitutes with simultaneous implant placement in mandibular reconstruction. Additionally, the temporal transcriptional profile associated with the early biological processes during osseointegration was determined. BCP and hydroxyapatite (HA) bone substitutes with simultaneous implant placement were grafted into mandibular defects created in mini‐swine. Radiographic, histological, and biochemical analyses were applied for evaluation of osseointegration effects at 4 months after the grafting procedure. Bone formation around the implant was assessed by the bone area percentage (BA%) and the bone‐implant‐contact percentage (BIC%). The biomechanical evaluation was performed by the implant pullout test and the removal torque test. Microarray technology was utilized for gene expression comparison analysis at day 14 postoperatively. Radiographic and histological observation indicated enhanced bone formation in the BCP group compared to the HA group. Histomorphometric analyses of BA% and BIC% as well as biochemical analyses of the maximal pull‐out force and the ultimate shear strength were all significantly greater in the BCP group (p< 0.05). Transcriptional analysis at an early stage of osseointegration revealed that genes belonging to biological processes associated with cell proliferation, development, osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and neurogenesis as well as the osteogenesis‐related TGF‐β/BMP and WNT signaling pathways were upregulated in the BCP group. In conclusion, the reconstruction of mandibular defects using BCP with simultaneous implant placement resulted in superior osseointegration effects. A number of candidate genes that were differentially expressed may contribute to the superior osseointegration effects. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 2071–2079, 2019.
Nitrogen‐doped graphene‐cerium oxide (NG‐CeO2) photocatalyst for the photodegradation of methylene blue in waste water
Authors: Singh Rajinder , Kumar Manesh , Khajuria Heena , Tashi Lobzang , Sheikh Haq Nawaz
Published: December 2018

This study shows a facile approach for the preparation of CeO2 nanoparticles decorated with porous nitrogen‐doped graphene (NG) nanosheets for effective photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB). NG nanosheets were first synthesized using a hydrothermal method and then nitrogen‐doped graphene‐cerium oxide (NG‐CeO2) was prepared through mixing of cerium nitrate with different concentrations of NG under ultrasonication followed by hydrothermal treatment. The synthesized nanocomposites were characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM). The photocatalytic activity of the synthesized nanocomposites was analyzed against MB dye. Results showed that the nanocomposites of NG‐CeO2 have an average particle size of 20 nm. The as‐prepared NG‐CeO2 nanocomposites exhibited outstanding photocatalytic activity for dye degradation under visible light irradiation, which could be attributed to synergistic effects between the NG nanosheets and CeO2. The quantum of photodegradation increases with the increase of the NG content in the nanocomposites.
Alcohol extract of Bauhinia forficata link reduces lipid peroxidation in the testis and epididymis of adult Wistar rats
Authors: Sampaio Carolina Ferreira , Lucchetta Nicla Renata , Punhagui Ana Paula Franco , Banedetti Philippe Rodrigues , Arakawa Nilton Syogo , Seiva Fábio Rodrigues Ferreira , Fernandes Glaura Scantamburlo Alves
Published: December 2018

Bauhinia forficata is a medicinal plant that has flavonoid components with hypoglycemic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antibacterial, antiviral and anti‐inflammatory action. Aim of this study is to evaluate the action of B. forficata alcoholic extract in the male genital system of adult male Wistar rats. For that, 20 adult male Wistar rats were distributed into two experimental groups: the B. forficata group, receiving B. forficata alcoholic extract (0.1 ml/10 g body weight/day) on alternate days, and the control group, receiving just the vehicle for 30 days straight both via gavage. On the 31st day, the animals were euthanized, and the testis and epididymis were collected for histopathological, biochemical, morphometric, and sperm count analysis. Mass spectrometry identified new compounds in the extract: trans‐caffeic acid, liquiritigenin, gallocatechin, and 2,4,6‐trihydroxyphenanthren‐2‐glycoside. Biochemical analysis showed higher total cholesterol levels in the testis and lower malondialdehyde levels in the testis and epididymis, in the B. forficata group. The mast cell count showed a reduction in degranulated mast cells in the caput region of the epididymis, in the B. forficata group. The luminal compartment of the caput and the epithelial of the epididymis cauda were reduced, whereas the stromal region of the epididymis caput was increased in the B. forficata group, compared with the control group. The testicular tissue was less impaired, considering that all the histological analyses were similar to the control. We believe that B. forficata alcoholic extract in the male genital system showed antioxidant action, especially in the epididymal tissue.
Atmospheric scanning electron microscopy and its applications for biological specimens
Authors: Kang Dae Jin , Lee Se Jeong , Na Ji Eun , Seong Myung‐jun , Yoon So Young , Jeong Young Woo , Ahn Jae Pyoung , Rhyu Im Joo
Published: December 2018

Scanning electron microscopy in ambient conditions (Air‐SEM) was developed recently and has been used mainly for industrial applications. We assessed the potential application of Air‐SEM for the analysis of biological tissues by using rat brain, kidney, human tooth, and bone. Hard tissues prepared by grinding and frozen sections were observed. Basic cytoarchitecture of bone and tooth was identified in the without heavy metal staining. Kidney tissue prepared using routine SEM methodology yielded images comparable to those of field emission (FE)‐SEM. Sharpness was lower than that of FE‐SEM, but foot process of podocytes was observed at high magnification. Air‐SEM observation of semithin sections of kidney samples revealed glomerular basement membrane and podocyte processes, as seen using conventional SEM. Neuronal structures of soma, dendrites, axons, and synapses were clearly observed by Air‐SEM with STEM detector and were comparable to conventional transmission electron microscopy images. Correlative light and electron microscopy observation of zebrafish embryos based on fluorescence microscopy and Air‐SEM indicated the potential for a correlative approach. However, the image quality should be improved before becoming routine use in biomedical research.
P2RY12:rs7637803 TT variant genotype increases coronary artery aneurysm risk in Kawasaki disease in a southern Chinese population
Authors: Lu Zhaoliang , Xu Yufen , Fu Lanyan , Tan Yaqian , Che Di , Huang Ping , Pi Lei , Zhou Huazhong , Liang Xiaoyun , Zhang Li , Gu Xiaoqiong
Published: December 2018

Background

Activated‐platelet increases the risk of thrombosis in Kawasaki disease (KD) patients with a coronary artery aneurysm (CAA). The ADP pathway is one of the platelet activation and aggregation pathways. The P2RY12 gene encodes the ADP receptor that is highly concentrated on platelets. However, few studies have reported on P2RY12 in relation to KD susceptibility with or without CAA.

Methods

We recruited 1335 healthy controls and 776 KD patients, including 103 with CAA, and selected five P2RY12 polymorphisms: rs9859538, rs1491974, rs7637803, rs6809699 and rs2046934. The present study focused on the relationship between the P2RY12 polymorphisms and KD with or without CAA.

Results

Among all of the selected polymorphisms, single‐locus analysis showed no significant association between the P2RY12 polymorphism and KD susceptibility. However, we found a significant relationship between rs7637803 and CAA risk in KD patients [CT versus CC: odds ratio (OR) = 0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.22–0.75; p = 0.0041; TT versus CC: OR = 2.90, 95% CI = 1.12–7.46; p = 0.0276]. Stratification analysis by age in KD patients indicated that the rs7637803 TT genotype increased CAA formation risk among children aged (OR = 3.90, 95% CI = 1.42–10.69; p = 0.0081) and increased the onset risk of CAA in males (OR = 6.28, 95% CI = 2.01–19.65; p = 0.0016). The combined effect of the five selected P2RY12 risk genotypes with the KD patients compared to non‐mutated P2RY12 genotypes (score: 0) showed that patients with P2RY12 genotype polymorphisms (score: 1–5) had a significantly increased CAA risk (p = 0.0086). Stratification analysis for the severity of CAA found that the rs7637803 TT genotype reduced giant CAA (GCAA) risk (OR = 4.60, 95% CI = 1.70–12.41; p = 0.0026).

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicate that the P2RY12 rs7637803 genotype might be used as a biomarker to predict the occurrence of GCAA.
Impact of maternal HIV exposure, feeding status, and microbiome on infant cellular immunity
Authors: Dzanibe Sonwabile , Jaspan Heather B , Zulu Michael Z , Kiravu Agano , Gray Clive M
Published: December 2018

At least one-third of infants born in sub-Saharan Africa have been exposed to the effects of maternal HIV infection and antiretroviral treatment. Intrauterine HIV exposure is associated with increased rates of morbidity and mortality in children. Although the mechanisms responsible for poor infant health with HIV-1 exposure are likely to be multifactorial, we posit that the maternal environment during gestation and in the perinatal period results in altered infant immunity and is possibly the strongest contributing factor responsible for the disproportionally high infectious events among HIV-exposed infants who remain HIV uninfected. This review provides a synthesis of studies reporting the impact of intrauterine HIV exposure, feeding practices, and microbiota on immune ontogeny in the first year of life in HIV-exposed uninfected infants.

Review on the impact of HIV exposure, feeding practices and microbiota on immune ontogeny in HIV exposed uninfected infants.
Update on immunogenetics of Tunisian endemic pemphigus foliaceus
Authors: Masmoudi Hatem , Abida Olfa , Masmoudi Abderrahmen , Turki Hamida
Published: December 2018

Pemphigus foliaceus (PF) is an autoimmune blistering skin disease characterized by the presence of bullous skin lesions, the absence of mucous tissue involvement, and the production of auto-antibodies directed against a keratinocyte transmembrane protein localized in the desmosome and member of the cadherines, desmoglein 1. These pathogenic auto-antibodies are responsible for the intra-epidermal formation of blisters through the loss of keratinocyte adhesion, the so-called acantholysis process. The endemic form of PF observed in the south of Tunisia is characterized by a significantly higher incidence rate compared to the sporadic form in northern countries, occurrence mainly in young women and the absence of cases during childhood. Tunisian endemic PF is an ideal research model for the decryption of the puzzle of genetic and environmental factors and their interactions in the development of autoimmune diseases. In this review, we will summarize recent findings regarding the epidemiologic and immunologic features of Tunisian PF and its genetic and environmental factors.

Review of recent findings regarding the epidemiologic and immunologic features of Tunisian PF and its genetic, environmental and hormonal factors.
Optimization of rs‐fMRI parameters in the Seed Correlation Analysis (SCA) in DPARSF toolbox: A preliminary study
Authors: Karpiel Ilona , Klose Uwe , Drzazga Zofia
Published: December 2018

There are a number of various methods of resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI) analysis such as independent component analysis, multivariate autoregressive models, or seed correlation analysis however their results depend on arbitrary choice of parameters. Therefore, the aim of this work was to optimize the parameters in the seed correlation analysis using the Data Processing Assistant for Resting‐State fMRI (DPARSF) toolbox for rs‐fMRI data received from a Siemens Magnetom Skyra 3‐Tesla scanner using a whole‐brain, gradient‐echo echo planar sequence with a 32‐channel head coil. Different ranges of the following parameters: amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation (ALFF), Gaussian kernel at FWHM and radius of spherical ROI for 109 regions were tested for 20 healthy volunteers. The highest values of functional connectivity (FC) correlations were found for ALFF 0.01–0.08, spherical ROIs with the 8‐mm radius and Gaussian kernel 8 mm at FWHM in all the studied areas that is, Auditory, Sensimotor, Visual, and Default Mode Network. The dominating influence of ALFF and smoothing on values of FC correlations was noted.
Higher serum VGF protein levels discriminate bipolar depression from major depressive disorder
Authors: Chen Suzhen , Jiang Haitang , Hou Zhenhua , Yue Yingying , Zhang Yuqun , Zhao Fuying , Xu Zhi , Li Yinghui , Mou Xiaodong , Li Lei , Wang Tianyu , Zhao Jingjing , Han Chongyang , Sui Yuxiu , Wang Ming , Yang Zhong , Lu Yan , Zhu Yifeng , Li Jianhua , Shen Xinhua , Sun Fei , Chen Qingsong , Yuan Yonggui
Published: December 2018

Misdiagnosis between major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar depression (BD) is quite common. Our previous study found significantly lower serum VGF (non‐acronymic) in MDD patients. However, it is unclear whether same changes occur in BD patients. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the relationship between serum VGF levels in BD and MDD patients. General information, scores of 17‐item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and fasting blood samples of all participants including 30 MDD patients, 20 BD patients, and 30 healthy controls (HC) were collected. Serum VGF levels were measured by Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kits. Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze correlations between serum VGF levels and clinical information. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and likelihood ratios (LRs) were used to analyze the differential potential of serum VGF. Serum VGF levels were significantly lower in MDD patients but higher in BD patients compared with HC (both PTukey < 0.01). No correlation was found between serum VGF levels and any data of subjects. The optimal cutoff for serum VGF in discriminating BD patients from MDD patients was ≥1093.85 pg/ml (AUC = 0.990, sensitivity of 95%, specificity of 100% and accuracy of 95%). LRs further confirmed the differential efficiency of serum VGF in distinguishing BD and MDD patients with +LR of infinity and –LR of 0. The results suggest that serum VGF level changed significantly in MDD and BD patients and serum VGF may be an indicator for differentiating BD patients from MDD patients.