bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factor Analysis of the Apathy Scale in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Lopez Francesca V. , Eglit Graham M.L. , Schiehser Dawn M. , Pirogovsky‐Turk Eva , Litvan Irene , Lessig Stephanie , Filoteo J. Vincent
Published: April 2019

Background

The Apathy Scale (AS), a popular measure of apathy in Parkinson's disease (PD), has been somewhat limited for failing to characterize dimensions of apathy, such as those involving cognitive, behavioral, and emotional apathy symptoms. This study sought to determine whether factors consistent with these apathy dimensions in PD could be identified on the AS, examine the associations between these factors and disease‐related characteristics, and compare PD patients and healthy control (HCs) on identified factors.

Methods

Confirmatory (CFA) and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) were conducted on AS scores of 157 nondemented PD patients to identify AS factors. These factors were then correlated with important disease‐related characteristics, and PD and HC participants were compared across these factors.

Results

Previously proposed AS models failed to achieve an adequate fit in CFA. A subsequent EFA revealed two factors on the AS reflecting joint cognitive‐behavioral aspects of apathy (Motivation‐Interest‐Energy) and emotional apathy symptoms (Indifference). Both factors were associated with anxiety, depression, health‐related quality of life, and independent activities of daily living, with Indifference associated more with the latter. In addition, only the Indifference factor was associated with cognitive functioning. PD patients reported higher levels of symptoms than HCs on both factors, with the group difference slightly larger on the Motivation‐Interest‐Energy factor.

Conclusion

The AS can be decomposed into two factors reflecting Motivation‐Interest‐Energy and Indifference symptoms. These factors are differentially associated with clinical variables, including cognition and independent activities of daily living, indicating the importance of evaluating apathy from a multidimensional perspective.
Genetic analysis of pharmacogenomic VIP variants in the Blang population from Yunnan Province of China
Authors: Zhang Chan , Guo Weiwei , Cheng Yujing , Li Qi , Yang Xin , Dai Run , Zhu Linhao , Chen Wanlu
Published: April 2019

Background

Genetic polymorphisms in numerous pharmacogenetics studies were regarded as the essential factors involved in the response to or metabolism of drugs. These genetic variants called very important pharmacogenetic (VIP) variants played a role in drugs metabolism, which have been summarized in the PharmGKB database. In this study, we genotyped 80 VIP variants from the PharmGKB in 100 members of Blang volunteers from Yunnan province.

Methods

Based on the PharmGKB database, we genotyped 80 VIP variants loci located in 47 genes. We used χ2 tests to evaluate the significant loci between Blang and the other populations, including ASW, CEU, CHB, CHD, GIH, JPT, LWK, MEX, MKK, TSI, and YRI. The global variation distribution of the significant variants was observed from the ALlele FREquency Database. And then, we used F‐statistics (Fst), genetic structure, and phylogenetic tree analyses to ascertain the genetic affinity among 12 populations.

Results

Comparing the Blang with the other 11 populations from the HapMap Project, the statistical results revealed that rs3814055 (NC_000003.12:g.119781188C>T) of nuclear receptor subfamily 1 group I member 2 (NR1I2, OMIM# 603,065) was the most significant variant, followed by rs1540339 (NC_000012.12:g.47863543C>T) of vitamin D receptor (VDR, OMIM#601,769). Furthermore, we found that genotype frequency of rs3814055 in the Blang was closer to the populations distributed in Miao. And genetic structure and F‐statistics indicated that the Blangs had a relatively closer affinity with CHD, CHB, and JPT populations. In addition, the Han nationality in Shaanxi was closer to it.

Conclusions

Our results will complement the pharmacogenomics information of the Blang ethnic group and provide a theoretical basis for safer drug administration for Blang.
The association of nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain 2 gene polymorphisms with the risk of asthma in the Chinese Han population
Authors: Cai Xulong , Xu Qiaolan , Zhou Chenrong , Zhou Li , Dai Weihua , Ji Guanchi
Published: April 2019

Background

Genetic background is one of the important risk factors for development of asthma. The nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2) has been involved in the pathogenesis of asthma. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between NOD2 gene polymorphisms and asthma susceptibility in the Chinese Han population.

Methods

Children with asthma (n = 309) and Healthy children (n = 163) were recruited from Yancheng Third People's Hospital, Yancheng, China, between January 2016 and December 2017. The NOD2 gene polymorphisms were measured by the Snapshot SNP genotyping assays. Genotyping was performed for 4 tag SNPs of NOD2. Serum IFN‐β levels were measured by ELISA.

Results

The serum IFN‐β levels were significantly lower in Asthmatic children than those in the controls (p < 0.001). Low levels of IFN‐β may be related to the susceptibility to severe asthma. The rs3135499 C allele was associated with a significantly increased risk of asthma as compared with the rs3135499 A allele.

Conclusion

The rs3135499 polymorphism of NOD2 gene and IFN‐β may play a role in the pathogenesis of asthma.
Concurrent manifestation of oligodontia and thrombocytopenia caused by a contiguous gene deletion in 12p13.2: A three‐generation clinical report
Authors: Ross Jamila , Fennis Willem , de Leeuw Nicole , Cune Marco , Willemze Annemieke , Rosenberg Antoine , Ploos van Amstel Hans‐Kristian , Créton Marijn , van den Boogaard Marie‐José
Published: April 2019

Background

Wnt and Wnt‐associated pathways play an important role in the genetic etiology of oligodontia, a severe form of tooth agenesis. Loss‐of‐function mutations in LRP6 , encoding a transmembrane cell‐surface protein that functions as a coreceptor in the canonical Wnt/b‐catenin signaling cascade, also contribute to genetic oligodontia.

Methods and results

We describe a three‐generation family with hereditary thrombocytopenia and oligodontia. Genome wide array analysis was performed. The array results from the index patient revealed an interstitial loss of 150 kb in 8p23.1 (chr8:6,270,299–6,422,558; hg19) encompassing MCPH1 and ANGPT2 and an interstitial loss of 290 kb in 12p13.2 (chr12:12,005,720–12,295,290; hg19) encompassing ETV6, BCL2L14 and LRP6.

Conclusion

This case report shows a three‐generation family with hereditary thrombocytopenia and oligodontia with a heterozygous 290 kb novel contiguous gene deletion in band p13.2 of chromosome 12, encompassing LRP6 and ETV6. In this report we discuss the clinical relevance of the deletion of both genes and illustrate the importance of thorough examination of oligodontia patients. Comprising not only the oral status but also the medical history of the patients and their relatives.
A note on a lowest order divergence‐free Stokes element on quadrilaterals
Authors: Zhou Xinchen , Meng Zhaoliang , Fan Xin , Luo Zhongxuan
Published: April 2019

This short note reports a lowest order divergence‐free Stokes element on quadrilateral meshes. The velocity space is based on a P1 spline element over the crisscross partition of a quadrilateral, and the pressure is approximated by piecewise constant. For a given quadrilateral mesh, this element is stable if and only if the well‐known Q1‐P0 element is also stable. Although this method is a subspace method of Qin‐Zhang's P1‐P0 element, their velocity solutions are precisely equal. Moreover, an explicit basis representation is also provided. These theoretical findings are verified by numerical tests.
Intraoviductal concentrations of steroid hormones during in vitro culture changed phospholipid profiles and cryotolerance of bovine embryos
Authors: Banliat Charles , Dubuisson Florine , Corbin Emilie , Beurois Julie , Tomas Daniel , Le Bourhis Daniel , Salvetti Pascal , Labas Valérie , Mermillod Pascal , Saint‐Dizier Marie
Published: April 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of progesterone (P4), estradiol (E2), and cortisol (CO) at intraoviductal concentrations on bovine embryo development and quality in vitro. After fertilization of in vitro matured oocytes, zygotes were cultured for 8 days in synthetic oviductal fluid, supplemented with 55 ng/ml P4, 120 pg/ml E2, 40 ng/ml CO, or their combination (ALL). Control embryos were cultured with vehicle (0.1% ethanol). Exposure to steroids did not affect the embryo developmental rate nor the mean number of cells per blastocyst. However, at 24 hr after vitrification‐warming, exposure to P4 improved the proportion of embryos that re‐expanded and were viable while exposure to CO decreased the proportion of viable embryos. By intact cell MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry, a total of 242 phospholipid masses of 400–1000 m/z were detected from individual fresh blastocysts. Exposure to ALL induced the highest and most specific changes in embryo phospholipids, followed by P4, E2, and CO. In particular, the m/z 546.3 and 546.4 attributed to lysophosphatidylcholines were found less abundant after exposure to P4. In conclusion, exposure of bovine embryos to intraoviductal concentrations of steroid hormones did not affect in vitro development but changed blastocyst quality in terms of cryotolerance and phospholipid profiles.
Egg Production of Gulf Killifish Is Dependent on Broodstock Rearing Density but Not Spawning Substrate Surface Area
Authors: Chesser Brittany M , Green Chris C , Allen Peter J
Published: April 2019

The Gulf Killifish Fundulus grandis is a popular baitfish for recreational fisheries and is a candidate for commercial-scale culture; however, its relatively low fecundity compared to other baitfish presents a production challenge. Egg output in relation to broodstock densities and spawning mat surface areas was evaluated in recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs). In experiment 1, broodstock were stocked at two densities (45 and 90 fish/m³), with eggs collected three times per week for 8 weeks. Broodstock (15–17 g) that were held at 45 fish/m³ had greater reproductive output (3.93 eggs·female−1·d−1) than broodstock that were held at 90 fish/m³ (2.22 eggs·female−1·d−1). However, there was no difference between the number of eggs per collection (1,005 and 1,107 eggs per 3,600-L tank) or total egg production (23,202 and 25,802 eggs per 3,600-L tank), indicating that reproductive output was limited by another factor, such as available spawning substrate. Therefore, in experiment 2, broodstock (12–16 g) were stocked at a density of 100 fish/m³ in all tanks and were held for 8 weeks with one of three spawning mat (Spawntex) surface areas: 4,500 cm2 (one tier), 9,000 cm2 (two tiers), or 13,500 cm2 (three tiers). Reproductive output was 2.12, 2.27, and 2.21 eggs·female−1·d−1 for the one-tier, two-tier, and three-tier treatments, respectively, with no differences among treatments. There was also no among-treatment difference in the number of eggs per collection (1,724, 1,858, and 1,794 eggs/tank) or in the total number of eggs collected (27,587, 29,728, and 28,704 eggs/tank), suggesting that increasing the surface area of spawning material does not increase egg production. Therefore, a stocking density of 45 fish/m³ and a spawning mat surface area of 4,500 cm2 in commercial-scale RAS broodstock tanks result in similar egg production compared to a higher stocking density and greater spawning mat surface area.
Optimizing barge utilization in hinterland container transportation
Authors: Zweers Bernard G. , Bhulai Sandjai , van der Mei Rob D.
Published: April 2019

In hinterland container transportation the use of barges is getting more and more important. We propose a real‐life operational planning problem model from an inland terminal operating company, in which the number of containers shipped per barge is maximized and the number of terminals visited per barge is minimized. This problem is solved with an integer linear program (ILP), yielding strong cost reductions, about 20%, compared to the method used currently in practice. Besides, we develop a heuristic that solves the ILP in two stages. First, it decides for each barge which terminals to visit and second it assigns containers to the barges. This heuristic produces almost always optimal solutions and otherwise near‐optimal solutions. Moreover, the heuristic runs much faster than the ILP, especially for large‐sized instances.
Shortest path interdiction problem with arc improvement recourse: A multiobjective approach
Authors: Holzmann Tim , Smith J. Cole
Published: April 2019

We consider the shortest path interdiction problem involving two agents, a leader and a follower, playing a Stackelberg game. The leader seeks to maximize the follower's minimum costs by interdicting certain arcs, thus increasing the travel time of those arcs. The follower may improve the network after the interdiction by lowering the costs of some arcs, subject to a cardinality budget restriction on arc improvements. The leader and the follower are both aware of all problem data, with the exception that the leader is unaware of the follower's improvement budget. The effectiveness of an interdiction action is given by the length of a shortest path after arc costs are adjusted by both the interdiction and improvement. We propose a multiobjective optimization model for this problem, with each objective corresponding to a different possible improvement budget value. We provide mathematical optimization techniques to generate a complete set of strategies that are Pareto‐optimal. Additionally, for the special case of series‐parallel graphs, we provide a dynamic‐programming algorithm for generating all Pareto‐optimal solutions.
Power iteration and inverse power iteration for eigenvalue complementarity problem
Authors: Abdi Fatemeh , Shakeri Fatemeh
Published: April 2019

In this paper, an inverse complementarity power iteration method (ICPIM) for solving eigenvalue complementarity problems (EiCPs) is proposed. Previously, the complementarity power iteration method (CPIM) for solving EiCPs was designed based on the projection onto the convex cone K. In the new algorithm, a strongly monotone linear complementarity problem over the convex cone K is needed to be solved at each iteration. It is shown that, for the symmetric EiCPs, the CPIM can be interpreted as the well‐known conditional gradient method, which requires only linear optimization steps over a well‐suited domain. Moreover, the ICPIM is closely related to the successive quadratic programming (SQP) via renormalization of iterates. The global convergence of these two algorithms is established by defining two nonnegative merit functions with zero global minimum on the solution set of the symmetric EiCP. Finally, some numerical simulations are included to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed algorithms.
Antecedents of task performance: An examination of transformation leadership, team communication, team creativity, and team trust
Authors: Akhtar Sadia , Khan Kashif Ullah , Hassan Shah , Irfan Muhammad , Atlas Fouzia
Published: April 2019

Higher education requires best leaders and collaborative environment to stimulate staff and student because of facing more challenges and to make the educational institutions remain relevant in a competitive global context. Considering the fruitful academic outcome, ideal leadership style and collaborative work are essential among teachers and students. Therefore, an empirical study was performed to investigate the effect of transformational leadership and team communication on task performance. The proposed model was verified by quantitative study to clarify the complex relationship between predicators and outcomes. Research data were collected from a sample of 273 master students from the University of Science and Technology of China. The collected data were examined through partial least square analysis technique. The results suggested that team perception of transformation leadership has positive effect on team communication and team trust to measure high task performance. In addition, team communication has positive effect on team trust, whereas team trust has a significant effect on team creativity, which enhances the task performance.
Brain drain and South Africa's socioeconomic development: The waves and its effects
Authors: Mlambo Victor H. , Adetiba Toyin Cotties
Published: April 2019

Many African countries are bedeviled with huge losses of human skills, and this, in turn, has affected thier development. From health professionals to teachers, academics and engineers, the continent has lost numerous skilled personnel who ought to be contributing extensively to its socio‐economic development. The socio‐economic development of a country hinges on the availability of skilled human resources to drive its growth. Brain drain has long being a challenge for South Africa as the country continues to lose skilled professionals to other countries, hence, the unsteady growth of its economy. Using a strict textual analysis of the relevant literature relating to brain drain in South Africa, the study found that the South African government lacks a clear cut policy on how to reduce brain drain, and this will impact the country's socioeconomic development in the long term. Using the theoretical framework of Lee's push and pull theory, the study argues that brain drain in South Africa is reinforced by certain socio‐economic factors. The paper concludes that South Africa's vision of becoming Africa's industrial hub may remain a dream if the country fails to put losing its skilled professionals under control.
Stakeholder discourse and opinion towards a charismatic non‐native lizard species: Potential invasive problem or a welcome addition?
Authors: Williams Robert J. , Dunn Alison M. , Quinn Claire H. , Hassall Christopher
Published: April 2019

Analysis of discourse between stakeholders is becoming increasingly recognised for its importance in resolving conflicts of opinion regarding complex environmental issues such as the human‐mediated spread of invasive non‐native species—one of the major drivers of biodiversity loss world‐wide. Species’ attributes, stakeholders’ level of knowledge, perceptions of threat, attitudes towards intervention and nature values all have subjective influence on opinion, often creating highly opposed interests and perspectives that can create barriers preventing effective management.

Using a Q method approach towards analysis of subjective opinion among stakeholders, this study aimed to identify emerging viewpoints regarding the presence of Common Wall Lizards (Podarcis muralis) in theUK—an introduced, non‐native species with which there are high levels of human interaction but low levels of knowledge regarding potential negative ecological impacts. It explores the ways in which different stakeholder groups (i.e., public, land managers, conservationists) might share views and the reasoning behind shared or opposing discourse between groups.

Three clearly defined viewpoints on the species’ introduction emerge from the analysis of Q sorts: ‘Innocent until proven guilty’, ‘Precautionary informed concern’ and ‘The more the merrier’. These perspectives reflect both stark differences and commonalities in stakeholder perceptions and opinion towards the species’ introduction.

Whereas the ‘Innocent until proven guilty’ and ‘Precautionary, informed concern’ views are defined by differences in levels of ecological knowledge and impact uncertainty between them, the divergence of the ‘More the merrier’ view from both other viewpoints appears to be more reflective of pronounced variation between the groups deeper beliefs, perceptions and values about ‘naturalness and balance’, and overall relationship with nature.

These findings will be useful in identifying discordant attitudes and areas of potential contention between stakeholders that may arise in consideration of management decisions regarding non‐native species more widely. The holistic method of interpreting the analysis gives insight into how and why stakeholders may have formulated certain viewpoints. This in turn could help conservation managers identify ways in which to appreciate and work with subjective influences on stakeholder perceptions in order to best communicate the complex challenges and opportunities presented by non‐native species.

Aplain language summaryis available for this article.
Prosaposin is a biomarker of mesenchymal glioblastoma and regulates mesenchymal transition through the TGF‐β1/Smad signaling pathway
Authors: Jiang Yang , Zhou Jinpeng , Hou Dianqi , Luo Peng , Gao Huiling , Ma Yanju , Chen Yin‐Sheng , Li Long , Zou Dan , Zhang Haiying , Zhang Ye , Jing Zhitao
Published: April 2019

Mesenchymal glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive subtype of GBM. Our previous study found that neurotrophic factor prosaposin (PSAP) is highly expressed and secreted in glioma and can promote the growth of glioma. The role of PSAP in mesenchymal GBM is still unclear. In this study, bioinformatic analysis, western blotting and RT‐qPCR were used to detect the expression of PSAP in different GBM subtypes. Human glioma cell lines and patient‐derived glioma stem cells were studied in vitro and in vivo, revealing that mesenchymal GBM expressed and secreted the highest level of PSAP among four subtypes of GBM, and PSAP could promote GBM invasion and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)‐like processes in vivo and in vitro. Bioinformatic analysis and western blotting showed that PSAP mainly played a regulatory role in GBM invasion and EMT‐like processes via the TGF‐β1/Smad signaling pathway. In conclusion, the overexpression and secretion of PSAP may be an important factor causing the high invasiveness of mesenchymal GBM. PSAP is therefore a potential target for the treatment of mesenchymal GBM. © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
CBP/p300 antagonises EGFR‐Ras‐Erk signalling and suppresses increased Ras‐Erk signalling‐induced tumour formation in mice
Authors: Ichise Taeko , Yoshida Nobuaki , Ichise Hirotake
Published: April 2019

CREB‐binding protein (CBP) and p300 have oncogenic properties; both co‐operate with pro‐oncogenic transcription factors downstream of Ras‐Erk signalling to support cell proliferation. By contrast, missense, truncating and in‐frame mutations of CBP/p300 are found frequently in some human cancers, including cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas that originate from epidermal keratinocytes. Data support that dysfunction of CBP/p300 contributes to keratinocyte hyperproliferation and tumourigenesis; however, the mechanism by which dysfunction of CBP/p300 affects keratinocytes is unknown. Here, we used mice harbouring keratinocyte‐specific genetic modifications to examine the role of CBP/p300 in the epidermis. While a single copy of either Crebbp or Ep300 was necessary and sufficient for maintaining epidermal development, reduced expression of CBP/p300 strengthened the Ras‐Erk signalling‐induced hyperplastic phenotype of epidermal keratinocytes. Reduced CBP/p300 expression increased ligand‐induced EGFR activity while decreasing basal expression of Mig6, a negative regulator of EGFR. A reduction in CBP/p300, in combination with increased Ras‐Erk signalling, also promoted epidermal tumour formation in mice. Thus, our findings support that CBP/p300 acts as a tumour suppressor in epidermal keratinocytes by counteracting EGFR‐Ras‐Erk signalling. © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of ultra‐high‐molecular‐weight polyacrylamide by vertical solution polymerization technique
Authors: Sonker Ekta , Tiwari Rudramani , Adhikary Pubali , Kumar Krishna , Krishnamoorthi S.
Published: April 2019

A straightforward and novel methodology has been developed for the synthesis of ultra‐high‐molecular weight polyacrylamide (PAM) by vertical solution polymerization technique. By varying the concentrations of acrylamide monomer, three different grades of polymers (PAM‐V1, PAM‐V2, and PAM‐V3) have been synthesized and compared with the series of different grades of PAM (PAM‐C1, PAM‐C2, and PAM‐C3) synthesized through conventional solution polymerization technique. The synthesized grades PAM‐V1, PAM‐V2, PAM‐V3, PAM‐C1, PAM‐C2, and PAM‐C3 have been characterized by 1H NMR, infrared spectroscopy, intrinsic viscosity measurement, molecular weight determination by gel permeation chromatography, and thermal analysis. Rheological analysis has been carried out on the aqueous solutions of various grades of PAMs. Swelling behavior of ultra‐high‐molecular weight PAMs has also been investigated. The flocculation performances of all grades have been investigated in kaolin suspension by settling and jar test methods. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:1175–1181 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Multi‐scale modelling of the tensile behavior of lithium ion battery cellulose separator
Authors: Xie Weigui , Liu Wangyu , Dang Yanping , Peng Yujian
Published: April 2019

As a satisfactory green material for a lithium ion battery separator, cellulose possesses better wettability and superior thermal and chemical stability compared to commercial polyolefin separators. The macroscopic mechanical properties of the separator are determined by structural parameters on different dimensional scales. In this paper, a two‐scale modelling method is proposed for a cellulose separator. At micro‐scale, a single fiber structural model was established with a cross‐sectional profile extracted through image processing, combined with the fiber helix angle. At meso‐scale, a representative volumetric element model and a two‐dimensional random fibrous model for the fibrous network of the cellulose separator were developed. The elastic modulus in the machining direction (MD) and transverse direction (TD) of the two models were calculated by finite element simulation and compared with experimental data. The results show that the elastic modulus of the models is slightly larger than that from experiments. Compared to experiments, the relative errors in the MD and TD of the representative volumetric element model are 2.80% and 6.78%, respectively. The relative errors in the MD and TD of the two‐dimensional random fibrous model are 6.70% and 8.47%, respectively. Consequently, multi‐scale modelling is proven to have considerable value in investigating the properties of fibrous materials. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Unique Protein Profiles of Extracellular Vesicles as Diagnostic Biomarkers for Early and Advanced Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: An Taixue , Qin Sihua , Sun Dehua , Huang Yiyao , Hu Yanwei , Li Shaopeng , Zhang Han , Li Bo , Situ Bo , Lie Linmiao , Wu Yingsong , Zheng Lei
Published: April 2019

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediate intercellular communication via transferring proteins and other biological molecules and have been recently investigated as biomarkers of disease. Sensitive and specific biomarkers are required for lung cancer diagnosis and prognosis. The present study screens for abnormal EV proteins in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using a quantitative proteomics strategy involving LC‐MS/MS to identify ideal biomarkers for NSCLC diagnosis. EVs are enriched from the sera of early and advanced NSCLC patients and healthy controls and from cell culture supernatants of lung adenocarcinoma and bronchial epithelial cell lines. In the sera and supernatants, 279 and 632 differentially expressed proteins, respectively, are associated with signaling pathways including extracellular membrane–receptor interaction, focal adhesion, and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. Thirty‐two EV proteins are identified at the intersection of differentially expressed proteins between the NSCLC groups and cell lines. Based on bioinformatics analysis, in silico immunohistochemical, and PRM verification, fibronectin is selected for following in vitro studies and validation with an independent cohort. Fibronectin on EVs is estimated to perform well in the diagnosis of NSCLC patients based on AUC, showing great potential for clinical use and demonstrating the efficacy of this method for EV‐associated biomarker screening.
iTRAQ‐Based Quantitative Proteomic Analysis Strengthens Transcriptomic Subtyping of Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer Tumors
Authors: Jézéquel Pascal , Guette Catherine , Lasla Hamza , Gouraud Wilfried , Boissard Alice , Guérin‐Charbonnel Catherine , Campone Mario
Published: April 2019

Heterogeneity and lack of targeted therapies represent the two main impediments to precision treatment of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). Therefore, molecular subtyping and identification of therapeutic pathways are required to optimize medical care. The aim of the present study is to define robust TNBC subtypes with clinical relevance by means of proteomics and transcriptomics. As a first step, unsupervised analyses are conducted in parallel on proteomics and transcriptomics data of 83 TNBC tumors. Proteomics data unsupervised analysis did not permit separation of TNBC into different subtypes, whereas transcriptomics data are able to clearly and robustly identify three subtypes: molecular apocrine (C1), basal‐like immune‐suppressed (C2), and basal‐like immune response (C3). Supervised analysis of proteomics data are then conducted based on transcriptomics subtyping. Thirty out of 62 proteins differentially expressed between C1, C2, and C3 belonged to biological categories which characterized these TNBC clusters: luminal and androgen‐regulated proteins (C1), basal, invasion, and extracellular matrix (C2), and basal and immune response (interferon pathway and immunoglobulins) (C3). Although proteomics unsupervised analysis of TNBC tumors is unsuccessful at identifying clusters, the integrated approach is promising. Identification and measurement of 30 proteins strengthen subtyping of TNBC based on robust transcriptomics unsupervised analysis.
iTRAQ‐Based Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of Duck Eggshell During Biomineralization
Authors: Zhu Feng , Zhang Fan , Hincke Maxwell , Yin Zhong‐Tao , Chen Si‐Rui , Yang Ning , Hou Zhuo‐Cheng
Published: April 2019

The avian egg is a valuable model for the calcitic biomineralization process as it is the fastest calcification process occurring in nature and is a clear example of biomineralization. In this study, iTRAQ MS/MS is used to detect and study for the first time: 1) the overall duck eggshell proteome; 2) regional differences in the proteome between the inner and outer portions of the duck eggshell. The new reference protein datasets allow us to identify 179 more eggshell proteins than solely using the current release of Ensembl duck annotations. In total, 484 proteins are identified in the entire duck eggshell proteome. Twenty‐eight novel proteins of unknown function that are involved in eggshell formation are also identified. Among the identified eggshell proteins, 54 proteins show differential abundances between the inner, partially mineralized eggshell (obtained 16 h after ovulation) compared to the overall complete eggshell (normally expulsed eggshell). At least 64 of the abundant matrix proteins are common to eggshell of 4 different domesticated bird species (chicken, duck, quail, turkey) and zebra finch. This study provides a new resource for avian eggshell proteomics, and augments the inventory of eggshell matrix proteins that will lead to a deeper understanding of calcitic biomineralization.
Challenges and Opportunities in Cancer Metabolomics
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Misra Biswapriya B.
Published: April 2019

Challenges in metabolomics for a given spectrum of disease are more or less comparable, ranging from the accurate measurement of metabolite abundance, compound annotation, identification of unknown constituents, and interpretation of untargeted and analysis of high throughput targeted metabolomics data leading to the identification of biomarkers. However, metabolomics approaches in cancer studies specifically suffer from several additional challenges and require robust ways to sample the cells and tissues in order to tackle the constantly evolving cancer landscape. These constraints include, but are not limited to, discriminating the signals from given cell types and those that are cancer specific, discerning signals that are systemic and confounded, cell culture‐based challenges associated with cell line identities and media standardizations, the need to look beyond Warburg effects, citrate cycle, lactate metabolism, and identifying and developing technologies to precisely and effectively sample and profile the heterogeneous tumor environment. This review article discusses some of the current and pertinent hurdles in cancer metabolomics studies. In addition, it addresses some of the most recent and exciting developments in metabolomics that may address some of these issues. The aim of this article is to update the oncometabolomics research community about the challenges and potential solutions to these issues.
A Paper‐Based Platform for Long‐Term Deposition of Nanoparticles with Exceptional Redispersibility, Stability, and Functionality
Authors: Cho Hui Hun , Kim Su Ji , Jafry Ali Turab , Lee Byoungsang , Heo Jun Hyuk , Yoon Seokyoung , Jeong Sun Hwan , Kang Seong‐Il , Lee Jung Heon , Lee Jinkee
Published: April 2019

Although nanoparticles (NPs) can be carefully engineered to have maximal stability and functionality desirable for use in diverse applications, they are generally not suitable for long‐term storage in solution. It is also difficult to store NPs in a dry state because dried NPs generally become aggregated and cannot easily be redispersed. Thus, a new strategy allowing long‐term storage of NPs with high stability, redispersibility, and functionality is highly demanded. By passivating the 13 nm gold nanoparticle (AuNP) surface with stabilizing agents and treating a paper substrate with both bovine serum albumin and sucrose after coating with a hydrophobic polyvinyl butyral layer, it is possible to fully redisperse (≈100%) dried AuNPs with colloidal stability comparable to that of as‐prepared AuNPs. Furthermore, AuNPs physically stabilized with polyvinylpyrrolidone can react with thiol‐containing compounds, such as 1,4‐dithiothreitol (DTT). Taking advantage of the oxidation reaction of hypochlorous acid with DTT, it is possible to demonstrate a paper‐based colorimetric sensor for detection of residual chlorine in water. Since this strategy is applicable to large‐sized AuNPs (30–90 nm), silver NPs, oleic acid‐capped magnetic NPs, and cetrimonium bromide‐passivated gold nanorods, it can be used for diverse NPs requiring long‐term storage for many applications.
Magnetic Carbon Composite Particles for Dye Adsorption from Water and their Electrochemical Regeneration
Authors: Schneider Michael , Ballweg Thomas , Groß Lennart , Gellermann Carsten , Sanchez‐Sanchez Angela , Fierro Vanessa , Celzard Alain , Mandel Karl
Published: April 2019

Herein, the development of a novel composite particle system prepared from superparamagnetic Fe3O4@SiO2 microparticles as core and coated with a carbon shell is presented. The coating with carbon is done by pyrolyzing furan resin, which was previously deposited on the particle surface by poly‐merization of furfuryl alcohol. The novel composite material thus combines magnetic and sorptive properties. Upon pyrolysis the magnetic material is converted from magnetite to α‐iron and fayalite, changing its behavior from superparamagnetic to ferromagnetic with nearly zero remanence. The magnetic properties can be utilized to magnetically collect the particles dispersed in fluids, whereas the sorptive properties of the carbon shell can be used to remove organic contaminants from these fluids. The adsorption behavior of the composite particles and a potential electrochemical regeneration route are investigated, using the model dye methylene blue.
Cool storage of Queensland fruit fly pupae for improved management of mass production schedules
Authors: Benelli Maurizio , Ponton Fleur , Lallu Urvashi , Mitchell Katherine A , Taylor Phillip W
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Cool storage is a valuable means of manipulating insect development time. The Queensland fruit fly (Q‐fly) is Australia's most economically significant pest of fruit crops. The present study investigates cool storage of Q‐fly pupae for increasing production flexibility for sterile insect technique programs. Development time, survival and fly quality were assessed following continuous storage of 1‐day‐old pupae at temperatures ranging from 13 to 25 °C.

RESULTS

Survival was reduced almost to zero by pupal storage at 13 and 15 °C, was greatly reduced by storage at 17 °C, and was modestly reduced by storage at 19 °C. Pupal development time was extended by 16 days at 17 °C and by 9 days at 19 °C. Cool storage negatively affected flight ability and depleted lipid reserves. Cool storage at 19 °C enhanced the ability of 3‐day‐old adults to recover from chill‐coma compared to control flies, indicating cold acclimation.

CONCLUSION

There is potential for use of cool storage in Q‐fly mass rearing, especially to improve alignment between production and field releases. For the purpose of delaying the development time of Q‐fly pupae with minimal quality reduction, storage at 23 °C is recommended for 1‐day‐old pupae. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Efficacy of reduced rates of chlorantraniliprole seed treatment on insect pests of irrigated drill‐seeded rice
Authors: Villegas James M , Wilson Blake E , Stout Michael J
Published: April 2019

Background

For the past decade, insecticidal seed treatment has been the most widely used control tactic against insect pests of rice (Oryza sativa L.) in the USA. Seed treatments are used primarily to control the most economically important early‐season pest of rice, the rice water weevil (Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus Kuschel). This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of reduced rates of chlorantraniliprole seed treatment against the rice water weevil, fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith), and sugarcane borer (Diatraea saccharalis F.) under field and laboratory conditions. Concentrations of chlorantraniliprole in plant tissues were determined at vegetative and reproductive developmental stages of rice plants.

Results

Chlorantraniliprole seed treatment reduced the densities of rice water weevil larvae relative to non‐treated controls even at rates 75% lower than the label rate. Increased mortality of fall armyworm larvae was observed at reduced seed treatment rates relative to a non‐treated control. Chlorantraniliprole seed treatment increased the mortality of sugarcane borer larvae at all rates relative to controls and the mortality was consistently higher in larvae that were fed stems from treated plants at the vegetative developmental stage than larvae that were fed stems from plants at the reproductive stage. Concentrations of chlorantraniliprole in plant tissues increased with seed treatment rate and decreased with plant age.

Conclusion

This study has shown that reduced chlorantraniliprole seed treatment rates can provide adequate control against the rice water weevil, fall armyworm, and sugarcane borer, particularly at early developmental stages of rice plants. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
The Marche: Italy's new frontier for international retirement migration
Authors: King Russell , Cela Eralba , Morettini Gabriele , Fokkema Tineke
Published: April 2019

Within the linked fields of population, migration, and ageing, international retirement migration (IRM) has emerged as a strong focus for empirical research. Thus far, the classic studies have been on European North–South IRM, with a specific concentration on iconic regions such as the Costa del Sol, southern France, and Tuscany. But the geography of IRM is constantly changing, as prior destination regions become “saturated” and perhaps too expensive, so that new “frontiers” are opened up. One such frontier is the Italian region of Marche, now seen as a cheaper and more “authentic” region than Tuscany. This paper uses interview narratives from 69 older age British, Dutch, and German people who have relocated, as either permanent settlers or seasonal residents, in the Marche, in order to answer two questions. The questions relate first to the main drivers of IRM at the decision‐making level and, second, to the experiences of living there, including advantages and disadvantages. We find the participants for the most part engaged in active ageing, growing their own produce, and joining in local community life and are appreciative of the beauty of the hilly landscape. However, “full” integration is hampered by language and cultural barriers, whereas the bureaucracy is their main complaint.
The efficacy of propolis on markers of glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Karimian Jahangir , Hadi Amir , Pourmasoumi Makan , Najafgholizadeh Ameneh , Ghavami Abed
Published: April 2019

Background and Objectives

The impetus for the current study was to evaluate the efficacy of propolis supplementation on markers of glycemic status in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to August 2018, identifying randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of propolis supplementation on glycemic markers in adults with T2DM. Cochrane Collaboration tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias assessment. A random‐effects model was applied in the meta‐analysis to compensate for potential heterogeneity among the included studies.

Results

Six randomized controlled trials comprising 373 participants were included in the systematic review and meta‐analysis. The results of the meta‐analysis revealed significant reductions in fasting plasma glucose (−13.51 mg/dl; 95% CI [−24.98, −2.04]) and hemoglobin A1C (−0.52%; 95% CI [−0.94, −0.10]) concentrations following propolis supplementation. However, no significant lowering effect was observed in fasting insulin levels (−0.53 pmol/L; 95% CI [−1.69, 0.63]) or homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (−0.543; 95% CI [−1.72, 0.64]).

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta‐analysis suggested that propolis supplementation may be effective in controlling glycemic levels for T2DM patients. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.
Object‐based verification metrics applied to the evaluation and weighting of convective‐scale precipitation forecasts
Authors: Raynaud Laure , Pechin Iseline , Arbogast Philippe , Rottner Lucie , Destouches Mayeul
Published: April 2019

Traditional pointwise verification scores are not always appropriate for the evaluation of high‐resolution precipitation forecasts because of double‐penalty problems. An alternative approach, based on the identification of homogeneous rainfall areas called “precipitating objects”, allows forecast evaluation at a larger and thus more predictable scale, and specific information about the nature of errors (e.g. location, size, intensity) can be obtained. A novel object detection method is first introduced and the object‐based verification of precipitation forecasts from the convective‐scale deterministic and ensemble models Arome and Arome‐EPS is then discussed, using several scores and diagnostics. Three types of precipitating objects characterizing total, moderate and heavy rainfall are considered. In the second part, object‐based metrics are used to compute objective weights for time‐lagged ensemble forecasts, based on their performance at early forecast ranges. The weights obtained clearly depend on the meteorological situation and on the precipitation type, reflecting for instance the lower predictability of moderate precipitation compared to total precipitation. There is also a dependence on the production time with, on average, slightly larger and more homogeneous weights associated with the most recent run. However, in some situations of moderate and heavy rainfall, a relevant signal can be extracted from older runs. It is finally shown that object‐based weights are better suited than classical quadratic weights to improve nowcasting performance.
Extended representation of wind–mass correlation by ensemble forecasting for data assimilation
Authors: Song Hyo‐Jong
Published: April 2019

Initialization for numerical weather prediction models is of utmost importance especially in the short‐range forecast of the weather accompanying extreme events such as heavy rainfall, heatwaves, and so on. The balance relationship between wind and mass in the initialized field has been an important issue since Richardson's first attempt at numerical prediction. In a climatological framework, regressed‐linear and analytic‐nonlinear balancing methods are used to impose the wind–mass correlation onto the analysis increment, which results from data assimilation procedures. The advection of horizontal wind destroys the isotropy assumption by the regressed‐linear balance approach. The nonlinear balance equation approach including the advection process reduces this disadvantage more or less. However, it is shown that forecast ensemble correlation helps even the regressed balance approach to address the anisotropy in the hybridization framework. The regressed balance approach, in common with the nonlinear balance, experiences (a) considerable residual of the horizontal momentum conservation in the Antarctic stratosphere, and (b) lack of thermodynamic energy relationship between divergent wind and temperature in the Tropics. This study demonstrates with phenomenological examples that these weaknesses of the traditional (especially, regressed) methods are effectively resolved by forecast ensemble covariance.
Inference of stochastic parametrizations for model error treatment using nested ensemble Kalman filters
Authors: Scheffler Guillermo , Ruiz Juan , Pulido Manuel
Published: April 2019

Stochastic parametrizations are increasingly used to represent the uncertainty associated with model errors in ensemble forecasting and data assimilation. One of the challenges associated with the use of these parametrizations is the characterization of the statistical properties of the stochastic processes within their formulation. In this work, a hierarchical Bayesian approach based on two nested ensemble Kalman filters is proposed for inferring parameters associated with stochastic parametrizations. The proposed technique is based on the Rao‐Blackwellization of the parameter estimation problem. It consists of an ensemble of ensemble Kalman filters, each of them using a different set of stochastic parameter values. We show the ability of the technique to infer parameters related to the covariance of stochastic representations of model error in the Lorenz‐96 dynamical system. The evaluation is conducted with stochastic twin experiments and with imperfect model experiments with unresolved physics in the forecast model. The technique performs successfully under different model error covariance structures. The technique is conceived to be applied offline as part of an apriori optimization of the data assimilation system and could, in principle, be extended to the estimation of other hyperparameters of the data assimilation system.