bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mentoring beginning immigrant teachers: How culture may impact the message
Authors: Mercado Giancarlo , Trumbull Elise
Published: December 2018

Beginning immigrant teachers may experience cross‐cultural conflicts because their home cultures may differ in important ways from U.S. school culture. In California, mentors are assigned to work with new teachers, many born in other countries, to solve a range of problems—often attributable to cross‐cultural conflicts between the culture of the school and the cultures of these teachers. Mentors are veteran teachers, but even those who receive special training as mentors are not educated in theories explaining how culture influences child‐rearing and schooling practices. In this study, 12 beginning immigrant high school math and science teachers born in Asia and Latin America participated in lengthy, semi‐structured interviews conducted by an experienced mentor specialist (not known to the participants). Conflicts reported by participants were analysed from the perspective of differences between the collectivistic cultures of the teachers and individualistic culture of the schools in which they teach. The conflicts reported, primed in part by the nature of interview questions, were categorised as having to do with differences in perceptions of the roles of parents, teachers and students and relations among those roles—particularly in terms of role hierarchy and regard for authority.
An in situ hydrogel based on carboxymethyl chitosan and sodium alginate dialdehyde for corneal wound healing after alkali burn
Authors: Xu Wenhua , Liu Kaibin , Li Tong , Zhang Wenhua , Dong Yanhan , Lv Jiayi , Wang Wenli , Sun Jingguo , Li Mengjie , Wang Meng , Zhao Zihong , Liang Ye
Published: December 2018

There is currently no optimal scaffold for the transplantation of limbal stem cells (LSCs) to induce corneal reconstruction after corneal alkali burns. This study attempts to fabricate a novel in situ Alginate‐Chitosan hydrogel (ACH) for LSCs transplantation. Sodium alginate dialdehyde (SAD), a biological crosslinker, was prepared by periodate‐mediated sodium alginate oxidization. Carboxymethyl chitosan was rapidly crosslinked with SAD via Schiff's base formation between the available aldehyde and amino groups. The ACH is rapidly formed on the wound surface by self‐crosslinking without adding any chemical crosslinking component. Gelation time, transmittance, microscopic structure, equilibrium swelling, cytotoxicity, histocompatibility and degradability of the hydrogel were all examined. Rabbit primary LSCs were encapsulated in the hydrogel and transplanted to alkali burn wounds in vivo. Cornea reconstruction was evaluated by visual observation, slit lamp, histological analysis, and immunofluorescence staining. Results showed that the in situ hydrogel was highly transparent, gelated quickly, biocompatible, and had low cytotoxicity. LSCs cultured in vitro expressed the stem marker p63 but lacked the differentiated epithelial markers cytokeratin 3 and 12. Furthermore, the hydrogel encapsulating LSCs could be formed quickly on the alkali burn wound of the cornea and was shown to significantly improve epithelial reconstruction. Taken together, treatment with this novel in situ hydrogel‐mediated LSC transplantation system may serve as a rapid and effective method for corneal wound healing. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part A published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 742–754, 2019.
Functional bioreactor characterization to assess potentials of nanocomposites based on different alginate types and silver nanoparticles for use as cartilage tissue implants
Authors: Zvicer Jovana , Miskovic‐Stankovic Vesna , Obradovic Bojana
Published: December 2018

In this work, functional characterization of biomaterials concerning potential application as articular cartilage implants was performed by using a biomimetic bioreactor with dynamic compression in the physiological regime (10% strain, 0.84 Hz frequency, 1 h on/1 h off). Specifically, two alginate types with low (LG) and high (HG) guluronic/mannuronic residue ratios with electrochemically synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were evaluated. HG Ag/alginate hydrogels were clearly indicated as potential candidates due to better initial mechanical properties as compared to LG hydrogels (dynamic compression modulus of ~60 vs. ~40 kPa) as well as the mechanical stability displayed during 7 days of dynamic compression. Cytotoxicity studies in 3D bovine cartilage explant cultures under dynamic compression have shown negligible effects as compared to standard 2D monolayers of bovine chondrocytes where moderate cytotoxicity was observed. Finally, experimental and mathematical modeling studies revealed different mechanisms of AgNP release under physiological‐like bioreactor conditions as compared to static conditions. Overall, the results clearly demonstrate bioreactor advantages in characterization and selection of candidate biomaterials as well as potentials to bridge the in vitro‐in vivo gap. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 755–768, 2019.
Evolution of Our Understanding of the Hyperparathyroid Syndromes: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Marx Stephen J , Goltzman David
Published: December 2018

We review advancing and overlapping stages for our understanding of the expressions of six hyperparathyroid (HPT) syndromes: multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) or type 4, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A (MEN2A), hyperparathyroidism-jaw tumor syndrome, familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia, neonatal severe primary hyperparathyroidism, and familial isolated hyperparathyroidism. During stage 1 (1903 to 1967), the introduction of robust measurement of serum calcium was a milestone that uncovered hypercalcemia as the first sign of dysfunction in many HPT subjects, and inheritability was reported in each syndrome. The earliest reports of HPT syndromes were biased toward severe or striking manifestations. During stage 2 (1959 to 1985), the early formulations of a syndrome were improved. Radioimmunoassays (parathyroid hormone [PTH], gastrin, insulin, prolactin, calcitonin) were breakthroughs. They could identify a syndrome carrier, indicate an emerging tumor, characterize a tumor, or monitor a tumor. During stage 3 (1981 to 2006), the assembly of many cases enabled recognition of further details. For example, hormone non-secreting skin lesions were discovered in MEN1 and MEN2A. During stage 4 (1985 to the present), new genomic tools were a revolution for gene identification. Four principal genes (“principal” implies mutated or deleted in 50% or more probands for its syndrome) (MEN1, RET, CASR, CDC73) were identified for five syndromes. During stage 5 (1993 to the present), seven syndromal genes other than a principal gene were identified (CDKN1B, CDKN2B, CDKN2C, CDKN1A, GNA11, AP2S1, GCM2). Identification of AP2S1 and GCM2 became possible because of whole-exome sequencing. During stages 4 and 5, the newly identified genes enabled many studies, including robust assignment of the carriers and non-carriers of a mutation. Furthermore, molecular pathways of RET and the calcium-sensing receptor were elaborated, thereby facilitating developments in pharmacotherapy. Current findings hold the promise that more genes for HPT syndromes will be identified and studied in the near future. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Quality, bioactivity study, and preclinical acute toxicity, safety pharmacology evaluation of PEGylated recombinant human endostatin (M2ES)
Authors: Guo Lifang , Geng Xingchao , Liu Li , Miao Yufa , Lin Zhi , Yu Min , Fu Yan , Liu Lihong , Li Bo , Luo Yongzhang
Published: December 2018

Endostar, a potent endogenous antiangiogenic factor, is wildly used in clinics. However, it was easily degraded by enzymes and rapidly cleared by the kidneys. To overcome these shortcomings, PEGylated recombinant human endostatin was developed. In this study, the purity of M2ES was evaluated by silver stain and reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography. Ultraviolet spectrum was used to examine the structural of M2ES and endostar. The bioactivity and antitumor efficacy of M2ES were evaluated using an in vitro endothelial cell migration model and athymic nude mouse xenograft model of a heterogeneous lung adenocarcinoma, respectively. A preclinical study was performed to evaluate the acute toxicity and safety pharmacology in rhesus monkeys. The purity of M2ES was more than 98%; PEG modification has no effect on endostatin structure. Compared with the control group, M2ES dramatically retards endothelial cell migration and tumor growth. After intravenous (IV) infusions of M2ES at a dose level of three and 75 mg/kg in rhesus monkeys, there was no observable serious adverse event in both acute toxicity and safety pharmacology study. On the basis of the quality and bioactivity study data of M2ES and the absence of serious side effect in rhesus monkeys, M2ES was authorized to initiate a phase I clinical trial.
MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 as prognostic markers for the early detection of urinary bladder cancer
Authors: Fouad Hanan , Salem Hosni , Ellakwa Doha El‐Sayed , Abdel‐Hamid Manal
Published: December 2018

The present study assessed protein and gene expression levels of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐2 (TIMP‐2), matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2), and MMP‐9 in urine and blood samples of 50 patients with bladder carcinoma. The expression of TIMP‐2, MMP‐2, and MMP‐9 levels with tumor stage and grade was also assessed. Results showed that the expression levels of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 in both blood and urine were significantly elevated in group 1 when compared with groups 2 and 3 healthy subjects. The discriminatory ability in the diagnosis of bladder carcinoma of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 expression was confirmed by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis that revealed a sensitivity and specificity of 100%. MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 levels were not correlated with grade or stage of the tumor. With respect to TIMP‐2 blood and urine levels, results showed a significant decrease in gene expression levels in bladder carcinoma group, whereas, TIMP‐2 protein showed a significant increase in bladder carcinoma.
Menadione perturbs oxidative stress biomarkers and testicular function indices of rats
Authors: Balogun Basheer A. , Aliyu Najeeb O. , Ajiboye Taofeek O.
Published: December 2018

In this study, we evaluated the influence of menadione on the androgenic, oxidative stress biomarkers, and testicular function indices in rats. Rats (20) were randomized into four groups (A‐D) of five rats each. Rats in groups A, B, C, and D received the vehicle of administration (olive oil), 25, 50, or 100 mg/kg body weight menadione intraperitoneally, respectively, for 7 days. Menadione lowered serum cholesterol, follicle‐stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testosterone and luteinizing hormone reduced significantly in rats when compared with the control rats. Furthermore, menadione lowered the testicular function indices in the testes of rats. The activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase in the testes of menadione‐treated rats decreased significantly. Also, glutathione was depleted with concomitant malondialdehyde increase. The findings of this study show that menadione induces testicular toxicity by depleting the antioxidant defense system leading to perturbation in the testicular function indices.
miR‐627/HMGB1/NF‐κB regulatory loop modulates TGF‐β1‐induced pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Li Jie , Kong Xinyi , Jiang Shanshan , Liao Wenjian , Zhang Zhihui , Song Junfu , Liang Ying , Zhang Wei
Published: December 2018

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a fibroproliferative disease that can eventually lead to fatal lung failure. It is characterized by abnormal proliferation of fibroblasts, dysregulated fibroblast differentiation to myofibroblast, and disorganized collagen and extracellular matrix production, deposition and degradation. There is still a lack of effective treatment strategies for PF. Extracellular high‐mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) induces PF through NF‐κB‐mediated TGF‐β1 release. Herein, we first validate the suppressive effect of HMGB1 knockdown on TGF‐β1‐induced α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and collagen I protein expression. In PF, miRNAs exert different effects through targeting various downstream target messenger RNAs. We searched an online database for dysregulated miRNAs in PF tissues; among them, miR‐627 was predicted by online tools to target HMGB1 to inhibit its expression. miR‐627 overexpression could partially reverse TGF‐β1‐induced normal human lung fibroblast proliferation, as well as α‐SMA and collagen I protein expression. miR‐627 inhibition could partially reverse the suppressive effect of HMGB1 knockdown on TGF‐β1‐induced α‐SMA and collagen I protein expression through direct binding to the 3′‐untranslated region of HMGB1. Moreover, miR‐627/HMGB1 affected TGF‐β1 release through RAGE/NF‐κB signaling; miR‐627/HMGB1 and RAGE/NF‐κB signaling formed a regulatory loop to modulate TGF‐β1‐induced PF in vitro. In conclusion, miR‐627 may be a potential agent that targets HMGB1 to inhibit its expression, thereby improving TGF‐β1‐induced PF in vitro.
Ultrasound‐targeted microbubble enhances migration and therapeutic efficacy of marrow mesenchymal stem cell on rat middle cerebral artery occlusion stroke model
Authors: Qian Jian , Wang Luna , Li Qiming , Sha Dujuan , Wang Jun , Zhang Jun , Xu Peng , Fan Guofeng
Published: December 2018

To investigate the role of ultrasound‐targeted microbubbles in the homing effect of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and in the therapeutic efficacy of BMSCs on the ischemic stroke. A middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was induced by plug wire preparation. Seventy‐two hours after MCAO, the treatment of BMSCs with ultrasound‐targeted microbubble was assessed via modified neurological severity score (mNSS), infarct volumes, and cerebral edema. In addition, immunofluorescence was performed to analyze the homing effect of BMSCs with ultrasound‐targeted microbubble. We find that BMSCs with ultrasound‐targeted microbubble (BMMSCs with ultrasound‐targeted microbubble [USMM] group) could significantly ameliorate mNSS, infarct volumes, and cerebral edema of MCAO compared with phosphate buffer saline group, BMSCs alone group (BMSC group), and BMSCs with Ultrasound group (Ultrasound group). Immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated that ultrasound‐targeted microbubbles promoted the accumulation of BMSCs in rat MCAO brains. Our findings demonstrated that ultrasound‐targeted microbubble could be an effective approach for the accumulation of BMSCs on ischemic stroke, and further improved the therapeutic efficacy of BMSCs on MCAO.
Effects of GST variants on the risk odds of hematological malignancy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Minjie , Zheng Meifang , Chen Hongyun , Yu Haiqing
Published: December 2018

Background

Whether glutathione S‐transferases (GST) polymorphisms influence the risk odds of hematological malignancy remains controversial. Therefore, we performed this meta‐analysis to better analyze correlations between GST polymorphisms and hematological malignancy.

Methods

Literature retrieve was conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results

Sixty‐two studies were enrolled for analyses. Significant associations with hematological malignancy were observed for GSTM1 (P < 0.0001, OR = 1.25, 95% CI, 1.14‐1.38), GSTP1 (P = 0.002, OR = 1.20, 95% CI, 1.07‐1.34), and GSTT1 (P < 0.0001, OR = 1.57, 95% CI, 1.39‐1.76) polymorphisms in overall analyses. Further subgroup analyses by ethnicity revealed that GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms were both significantly correlated with hematological malignancy in Caucasians, East Asians, and West Asians, whereas GSTP1 polymorphism was only significantly correlated with hematological malignancy in Caucasians and West Asians. When we stratified data according to type of disease, positive results were found for all investigated polymorphisms in patients with certain types of acute leukemia. Moreover, GSTP1 polymorphism was also found to be significantly associated with chronic leukemia and lymphoma.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1 polymorphisms may serve as potential genetic biomarkers of hematological malignancy in certain ethnicities.
NPAS2 regulates proliferation of acute myeloid leukemia cells via CDC25A‐mediated cell cycle progression and apoptosis
Authors: Song Bin , Chen Yan , Liu Yuhong , Wan Chucheng , Zhang Longjin , Zhang Wanggang
Published: December 2018

Promoted proliferation and associated suppression of apoptosis at various stages of myeloid differentiation are well‐known features of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), but understanding of the molecular processes involved remains limited. As a crucial circadian agent, neuronal PAS domain protein 2 (NPAS2) is widely recognized as a promising predictor of clinical outcome in various malignancies. Nevertheless, the understanding of its influence on AML is insufficient. Using KD cells and expression assays, we carried out detailed investigation of the role of NPAS2 in AML in vivo and in vitro. Firstly, we found that NPAS2 expression was elevated in AML cells both in vivo and in vitro. NPAS2 knockdown via lentiviral infection clearly suppressed proliferation of MV4‐11 and MOLM‐14 cells. Additionally, NPAS2 knockdown caused G1/S cell cycle arrest (CCA), which inhibited CDC25A expression. Moreover, NPAS2 knockdown promoted cell death, as evidenced by increased caspase‐3 cleavage, and change in Bcl2/Bax production. Excessive CDC25A expression eliminated G1/S CCA triggered by NPAS2 knockdown and death of NPAS2 knocked down MOLM and MV4‐11 cells. The expression of CDC25A was stabilized by NPAS2, which induced cell cycle progression and participated in suppression of cell death by modulating caspase‐3 cleavage, and expression of Bcl2/Bax. We therefore indicated NPAS2 to be a crucial modulator of survival as well as proliferation. Our research sheds light on the etiology of the proliferation of promyelocytes modulated via NPAS2 with regard to AML.
Melatonin inhibits the migration of human gastric carcinoma cells at least in part by remodeling tight junction
Authors: Wei Xiang , Chen Shaolong , Xu Zhe , Jia Ning , Qi Yinliang , Zhou Qing , Wang Jian , Qu Lijun , Zhang Sumei , Wang Yuan
Published: December 2018

The recurrence and metastasis is one of the major reasons for malignant tumor treatment failure. Melatonin, a naturally occuring hormone, could reduce the recurrence and metastasis of various tumors. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of melatonin on tumor metastasis inhibition have not been fully elucidated. In the present study, we explored the impact of melatonin on the migratory capability of human gastric carcinoma cells using wound healing assay, and further investigated if the inhibition on migration ability of melatonin was embodied by relocating tight junction proteins zo‐1 and occludin onto the cells surface to remodel tight junction structure. Immunofluorescence assay and Western blot analysis were performed to detect the expression and cell location of the tight junction proteins. The migration distance was decreased as the cells were treated with melatonin. And melatonin increased the membrane location of tight junction proteins, zo‐1 and occludin, showed by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot analysis. The results we got show that melatonin makes tight junction proteins anchored more on the cells membrane to remodel cells tight junction, which increase cells adhesion and decrease motility, resulting in the inhibition of gastric cancer cells migration and metastasis ability.
Delphinidin inhibits epidermal growth factor‐induced epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Lim Won‐Chul , Kim Hyunhee , Ko Hyeonseok
Published: December 2018

Epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), important cellular process in metastasis of primary tumors, is characterized by loss of their cell polarity, disruption of cell‐cell adhesion, and gain certain properties of mesenchymal phenotype that enable migration and invasion. Delphinidin is a member of anthocyanidin belong to flavonoid groups, known as having pharmacological and physiological effects including anti‐tumorigenic, antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and antiangiogenic effects. However, the effects of delphinidin on EMT is rarely investigated. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is known as a crucial inducer of EMT in various cancer including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To determine whether delphinidin inhibits EGF‐induced EMT in HCC cells, antiproliferative effect of delphinidin on Huh7 and PLC/PRF/5 cells were measured by Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay. As a result, delphinidin inhibited cell proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner. Based on the result of proliferation, to measure the effects of delphinidin on EGF‐induced EMT, we designated a proper concentration of delphinidin, which is not affected to cell proliferation. We found that delphinidin inhibits morphological changes from epithelial to mesenchymal phenotype by EGF. Moreover, delphinidin increased the messenger RNA and protein expression of E‐cadherin and decreased those of Vimentin and Snail in EGF‐induced HCC cells. Also, delphinidin prevented motility and invasiveness of EGF‐induced HCC cells through suppressing activation of matrix metalloproteinase 2, EGF receptor (EGFR), AKT, and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK). Taken together, our findings demonstrate that delphinidin inhibits EGF‐induced EMT by inhibiting EGFR/AKT/ERK signaling pathway in HCC cells.
Microwave vacuum pyrolysis conversion of waste mushroom substrate into biochar for use as growth medium in mushroom cultivation
Authors: Lam Su Shiung , Lee Xie Yi , Nam Wai Lun , Phang Xue Yee , Liew Rock Keey , Yek Peter NY , Ho Yee Ling , Ma Nyuk Ling , Rosli Mohd HNB
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Spent mushroom substrate (SMS), largely produced as an agriculture waste from mushroom cultivation, was transformed into biochar via microwave vacuum pyrolysis under different ratios of SMS to microwave absorbent (1:1, 1:2, and 1:3). The biochar was then examined for its potential to be re‐used in mushroom cultivation as a growth medium added to conventional mushroom baglog (plastic bag with mushroom seeds and culture substrates containing rice straw, sawdust, lime and water), with emphasis on its ability to form mycelium – a fungus that grows into mushroom from its seeds.

RESULT

The pyrolysis generated up to 36 wt% biochar yield with a large adsorption area (up to 215 m2 g‐1) and less water (4 wt%), indicating that many adsorption sites are available on which mushroom seeds, nutrient and water can be adsorbed onto in order to form mycelium (and subsequently mushroom). The biochar added to grow mushroom in baglog recorded a higher water retention percentage (up to 59%), a higher mycelium colonization length in 8 days (6.3 cm), coverage area (up to 259 cm2) and total mycelium growth volume (317 cm3), and resulted in a higher yield of mushroom (200 g month‐1) than that recorded for the conventional baglog without biochar (160 g month‐1).

CONCLUSION

The results indicated that biochar produced from SMS using microwave vacuum pyrolysis shows great potential in retaining water and nutrient that in turn promotes the formation of mycelium that leads to increased growth of mushroom in its cultivation. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Microbial electrolysis cell as an emerging versatile technology: a review on its potential application, advance and challenge
Authors: Hua Tao , Li Shengnan , Li Fengxiang , Zhou Qixing , Ondon Brim Stevy
Published: December 2018

Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) have been studied in a wide range of potential applications such as recalcitrant pollutants removal, chemicals synthesis, resources recovery and biosensors. However, MEC technology is still in its infancy and poses serious challenges for practical large‐scale applications. To understand the diversified applications of MEC, this review aims to explore MEC applications in the following contexts: an overview of MEC for energy generation and recycling such as hydrogen, methane, formic acid and hydrogen peroxide; contaminant removal, specifically complex organic pollutants and inorganic pollutants; as a sensor; as well as resource recovery. New concepts of MEC technology; configuration optimization; electron transfer pathways in biocathodes, and coupling with other technologies for value‐added applications such as MEC‐anaerobic digestion, MEC‐MFC, MEC‐MDC and bio‐E‐Fenton system are discussed. Finally, challenges and outlooks are suggested. The review aims to assist researchers and engineers to understand the latest trends in MEC technologies and applications. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis, Characterization, and Molecular Docking Study of Some Novel Imidazole Derivatives as Potential Antifungal Agents
Authors: Işık Ayşen , Acar Çevik Ulviye , Sağlık Begüm Nurpelin , Özkay Yusuf
Published: December 2018

The azole pharmacophore is still regarded as a viable lead structure for the synthesis of more effective antifungal agents. In this study, two novel series of imidazole derivatives containing dithiocarbamate (5a–5g) and (benz)azolethiol (6a–6n) side chains that are structurally related to the famous antifungal azole pharmacophore were synthesized, and the structures of them were characterized by spectral (IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and MS spectra) analyses. The synthesized compounds were screened in vitro antifungal activity against pathogenic strains fungi. Theoretical ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) predictions were calculated for final compounds. A molecular docking study of the most active compound with target “lanosterol 14α‐demethylase” (CYP51) was performed to unravel the mode of antifungal action. Compound 5e, which features imidazole and 4‐methoxybenzyl piperazine scaffolds, showed the most promising antifungal activity with an MIC50 value of 0.78 μg/mL against C. krusei. Effect of the compound 5e against ergosterol biosynthesis was observed by LC–MS–MS method, which is based on quantification of ergosterol level in C. krusei.
Design, Synthesis, and Structural Elucidation of New Pyridine and Thienopyridine Derivatives
Authors: Elsayed Mohamed A. , Abdel Hafez Naglaa A. , Elshahawi Manal M. , Ali Korany A.
Published: December 2018

New series of 3‐cyanopyridine scaffolds were prepared from the reaction of 3‐(4‐bromophenyl)‐1‐(3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one with active nitriles, including malononitrile and 2‐cyanothioacetamide. The newly prepared 6‐(4‐bromophenyl)‐4‐(3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐2‐thioxo‐1,2‐dihydropyridine‐3‐carbonitrile was used as a scaffold for the preparation of new series of condensed thienopyridines by its reactions with active halo compounds, namely, ethyl chloroacetate, chloroacetonitrile, phenacyl bromide, chloroacetone, and 2‐chloro‐N‐arylacetamide. The structures of the synthesized compounds were elucidated by the elemental analysis, spectral data and chemically by their preparations with other pathways.
Nigral iron deposition in common tremor disorders
Authors: Homayoon Nina , Pirpamer Lukas , Franthal Sebastian , Katschnig‐Winter Petra , Kögl Mariella , Seiler Stephan , Wenzel Karoline , Hofer Edith , Deutschmann Hannes , Fazekas Franz , Langkammer Christian , Ropele Stefan , Schmidt Reinhold , Schwingenschuh Petra
Published: December 2018

Objective

We investigated R2* relaxation rates as a marker of iron content in the substantia nigra in patients with common tremor disorders and explored their diagnostic properties.

Methods

Mean nigral R2* rates were measured in 40 patients with tremor‐dominant Parkinson's disease (PD), 15 with tremor in dystonia, 25 with essential tremor, and 25 healthy controls.

Results

Tremor‐dominant PD patients had significantly higher nigral R2* values (34.1 ± 5.7) than those with tremor in dystonia (30.0 ± 3.9), essential tremor (30.6 ± 4.8), and controls (30.0 ± 2.8). An R2* threshold of 31.15 separated tremor‐dominant PD from controls with a sensitivity and specificity of 67.5% and 72%. The sensitivity and specificity for discrimination between PD and non‐PD tremor patients was 67.5% and 60%.

Conclusion

Iron content in the substantia nigra is significantly higher in tremor‐dominant PD than in tremor in dystonia, essential tremor, and controls. Because of the considerable overlap, nigral R2* cannot be suggested as a useful diagnostic tool. © 2018 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
A chemogenetic approach for treating experimental Parkinson's disease
Authors: Assaf Fadi , Schiller Yitzhak
Published: December 2018

Background

PD is a common neurodegenerative disease primarily affecting the cortico–basal ganglia loop.

Objective

To investigate whether chemogenetic‐mediated neuromodulation of various nuclei and pathways can counterbalance basal ganglia network abnormalities and improve motor disability in experimental PD.

Methods

Experimental PD was induced by stereotactic injection of 6‐OHDA to the medial forebrain bundle. Designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs were expressed in different basal ganglia nuclei by stereotactic injections of adeno‐associated viral vectors. We compared motor performance, monitored by the open‐field and rotarod tests, after random and blinded application of either normal saline or the synthetic receptor activator, clozapine‐N‐oxide.

Results

Motor performance, as measured by movement velocity, rotations, and rotarod scores, were significantly improved in PD mice by enhancing the activity of the GPe with Gq custom receptors and by reducing basal ganglia output activity, targeting the output nuclei GPi and SNr with Gi custom receptors.

Conclusion

Our findings support the hypothesis that enhanced inhibitory output activity of the basal ganglia complex underlie motor signs in PD, and point to the therapeutic potential of chemogenetic based treatments in PD patients. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Disruption of the default mode network and its intrinsic functional connectivity underlies minor hallucinations in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Bejr‐kasem Helena , Pagonabarraga Javier , Martínez‐Horta Saül , Sampedro Frederic , Marín‐Lahoz Juan , Horta‐Barba Andrea , Aracil‐Bolaños Ignacio , Pérez‐Pérez Jesús , Ángeles Botí M. , Campolongo Antonia , Izquierdo Cristina , Pascual‐Sedano Berta , Gómez‐Ansón Beatriz , Kulisevsky Jaime
Published: December 2018

Background

Minor hallucinations and well‐structured hallucinations are considered in the severity continuum of the psychotic spectrum associated with Parkinson's disease. Although their chronological relationship is largely unknown, the spatial patterns of brain atrophy in these 2 forms of hallucinations partially overlap, suggesting they share similar pathophysiological processes. Functional connectivity studies show that disruption of functional networks involved in perception and attention could be relevant in the emergence of well‐structured hallucinations. However, functional neuroimaging studies in patients with isolated minor hallucinations are lacking. The objectives of this study were to explore the structural and functional changes underlying minor hallucinations.

Methods

We compared patients with (n = 18) and without (n = 14) minor hallucinations using a multimodal structural (gray‐matter volume voxel‐based morphometry) and functional (seed‐to‐whole‐brain resting‐state functional MRI) neuroimaging study.

Results

Coincident with previously described structural changes in well‐structured hallucinations in Parkinson's disease, patients with minor hallucinations exhibited gray‐matter atrophy with significant voxel‐wise differences in visuoperceptual processing areas and core regions of the default mode network. Functional connectivity changes consisted of altered connectivity within the default mode network, reduced negative correlation with task‐positive network, and aberrant connectivity between posterior regions of the default mode network and visual‐processing areas. These changes are in accordance with the attentional networks hypothesis proposed for well‐structured hallucinations.

Conclusions

Although longitudinal studies are needed to assess the potential role of minor hallucinations as an early clinical biomarker of progression to well‐structured hallucinations, the present findings show that the 2 phenomena share similar structural and functional brain correlates. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Comparative sensitivity of the MoCA and Mattis Dementia Rating Scale‐2 in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hendershott Taylor R. , Zhu Delphine , Llanes Seoni , Zabetian Cyrus P. , Quinn Joseph , Edwards Karen L. , Leverenz James B. , Montine Thomas , Cholerton Brenna , Poston Kathleen L.
Published: December 2018

Background

Clinicians and researchers commonly use global cognitive assessments to screen for impairment. Currently there are no published studies directly comparing the sensitivity and specificity of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Mattis Dementia Rating Scale‐2 in PD. The objective of this study was to identify the relative sensitivity and specificity of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Mattis Dementia Rating Scale‐2 in PD.

Methods

The Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Mattis Dementia Rating Scale‐2 were administered to training and validation cohorts. Cutoff scores were determined within the training cohort (n = 85) to optimize sensitivity and specificity for cognitive impairment and were applied to an independent validation cohort (n = 521).

Results

The Montreal Cognitive Assessment was consistently sensitive across training and validation cohorts (90.0% and 80.3%, respectively), whereas the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale‐2 was not (87.5% and 60.3%, respectively). In individual domains, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment remained sensitive to memory and visuospatial impairments (91.9% and 87.8%, respectively), whereas the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale‐2 was sensitive to executive impairments (86.2%).

Conclusion

The Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Mattis Dementia Rating Scale‐2 demonstrated individual strengths. Future work should focus on developing domain‐specific cognitive screening tools for PD. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
CDC suicide mortality report reveals spike in suicide attempts last year
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: December 2018

Suicide rates continue to climb in the country, most recently by 4 percent in 2017, according to new data released Nov. 29 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prompting a call by the field for more resources and interventions to reverse this trend.
A simple Gause‐type predator–prey model considering social predation
Authors: González‐Olivares Eduardo , Valenzuela‐Figueroa Sebastián , Rojas‐Palma Alejandro
Published: December 2018

The consumer–resource relationships are among the most fundamental of all ecological relationships and have been the focus of ecology since its beginnings. Usually are described by nonlinear differential equation systems, putting the emphasis in the effect of antipredator behavior (APB) by the prey; nevertheless, a minor quantity of articles has considered the social behavior of predators.

In this work, two predator–prey models derived from the Volterra model are analyzed, in which the equation of predators is modified considering cooperation or collaboration among predators.

It is well known that competition among predators produces a stabilizing effect on system describing the model, since there exists a wide set in the parameter space where the system has a unique equilibrium point in the phase plane, which is globally asymptotically stable.

Meanwhile, the cooperation can originate more complex and unusual dynamics. As we will show, it is possible to prove that for certain subset of parameter values the predator population sizes tend to infinite when the prey population goes to extinct.

This apparently contradicts the idea of a realistic model, when it is implicitly assumed that the predators are specialist, ie, the prey is its unique source of food. However, this could be a desirable effect when the prey constitutes a plague.

To reinforce the analytical result, numerical simulations are presented.
Metamaterial inspired featherlight artificial plasma horn antenna for astronomical and communication applications
Authors: Kizhakooden Joe , Jose Jovia , Paul Nees , Simon Sikha K. , Chakyar Sreedevi P. , Andrews Jolly , Joseph V. P.
Published: December 2018

In this article, we introduce a novel type of horn antenna constructed using artificial plasma sheets. This metamaterial inspired negative permittivity antenna fabricated using thin metallic wires in a specialized manner is observed to have same radiation performance of an equivalent conventional metallic horn structure. This novel plasma antenna can replace the conventional one in all microwave applications. The featherlight weight and the ability to remove the problems related with wind resistance and rain accumulation of this new structure may result in a rethinking of the use of horn antennas in astronomical data collection.
One‐millimeter isotropic breast diffusion‐weighted imaging: Evaluation of a superresolution strategy in terms of signal‐to‐noise ratio, sharpness and apparent diffusion coefficient
Authors: Delbany Maya , Bustin Aurélien , Poujol Julie , Thomassin‐Naggara Isabelle , Felblinger Jacques , Vuissoz Pierre‐André , Odille Freddy
Published: December 2018

Purpose

To quantitatively evaluate a superresolution technique for 3D, one‐millimeter isotropic diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) of the whole breasts.

Methods

Isotropic 3D DWI datasets are obtained using a combination of (i) a readout‐segmented diffusion‐weighted‐echo‐planar imaging (DW‐EPI) sequence (rs‐EPI), providing high in‐plane resolution, and (ii) a superresolution (SR) strategy, which consists of acquiring 3 datasets with thick slices (3 mm) and 1‐mm shifts in the slice direction, and combining them into a 1 × 1 × 1‐mm3 dataset using a dedicated reconstruction. Two SR reconstruction schemes were investigated, based on different regularization schemes: conventional Tikhonov or Beltrami (an edge‐preserving constraint). The proposed SR strategy was compared to native 1 × 1 × 1‐mm3 acquisitions (i.e. with 1‐mm slice thickness) in 8 healthy subjects, in terms of signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) efficiency, using a theoretical framework, Monte Carlo simulations and region‐of‐interest (ROI) measurements, and image sharpness metrics. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in normal breast tissue were also compared.

Results

The SR images resulted in an SNR gain above 3 compared to native 1 × 1 × 1‐mm3 using the same acquisition duration (acquisition gain 3 and reconstruction gain >1). Beltrami‐SR provided the best results in terms of SNR and image sharpness. The ADC values in normal breast measured from Beltrami‐SR were preserved compared to low‐resolution images (1.91 versus 1.97 ×10–3 mm2/s, P = .1).

Conclusion

A combination of rs‐EPI and SR allows 3D, 1‐mm isotropic breast DWI data to be obtained with better SNR than a native 1‐mm isotropic acquisition. The proposed DWI protocol might be of interest for breast cancer monitoring/screening without injection.
Multicomponent analysis of T1 relaxation in bovine articular cartilage at low magnetic fields
Authors: Petrov Oleg V. , Stapf Siegfried
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The multi‐exponential character of T1 relaxation in bovine articular cartilage was investigated at low magnetic fields below 0.5 T. The ultimate aim was to identify a parameter based on the T1 relaxation time distribution as a biomarker to biochemical features of osteoarthritis.

Methods

Osteoarthritis conditions were simulated by enzymatic digestion of cartilage with trypsin. Fast‐field cycling NMR relaxometry was carried out in the magnetic field range B0 = 70 μT to 600 mT. The data were analyzed in terms of T1 distributions on a log‐time scale using inverse Laplace transform, whereas integral properties such as mean T1s and distribution widths were obtained without data inversion from logarithmic moment analysis and a stretched‐exponential fit to the data. Attempts were also made to differentiate between water dynamic components through multi‐Lorentzian decomposition of average relaxation‐rate dispersions.

Results

T1 distribution in bovine articular cartilage was found to be bimodal, with the dominating, long component shifting toward larger values following trypsin digestion. The effect is more prominent toward lower magnetic field strength. This shift leads to an overall increase of the distribution width and an equivalently more pronounced deviation from exponential behavior.

Conclusion

The logarithmic width of T1 distribution functions at fields of 0.5 T and below, and the stretched‐exponential decay fit exponent β, show a significant trend after trypsin digestion of cartilage. These 2 parameters are suggested as possible biomarkers for osteoarthritis in humans and can be acquired entirely in vivo, with increasing significance for lower magnetic field strengths.
Evaluation of Recreational Hand-Crank Electrofishing on Introduced Catfish Species in Southeastern North Carolina
Authors: Fisk J. Michael , Morgeson Clinton W. , Polera Madison E.
Published: December 2018

Introductions of nonnative catfishes have led to population declines in native aquatic species. Populations of nonnative catfishes have been established in the Cape Fear, Black, Lumber, and Waccamaw rivers in southeastern North Carolina for 20–50 years. In response to native fish declines, the removal of nonnative catfishes has been encouraged in specific reaches of these rivers by utilizing recreational hand-crank electrofishing (HCE). This unique recreational gear type has been legal since 1985, but the impact of HCE on catfish species in all rivers where it occurs has not been evaluated. Therefore, our objective was to describe and compare population characteristics of nonnative Flathead Catfish Pylodictis olivaris, Blue Catfish Ictalurus furcatus, and Channel Catfish I. punctatus in river reaches where HCE is allowed (HCE reaches) to those in reaches where HCE is prohibited (non-HCE reaches). Low- and high-frequency electrofishing was utilized to assess population dynamics, age structure, size structure, biomass, and condition of catfish species in HCE and non-HCE reaches of the Cape Fear, Black, Lumber, and Waccamaw rivers during 2015 and 2016. Populations of the three nonnative catfishes collected in HCE reaches exhibited more characteristics indicative of exploitation compared to those in non-HCE reaches. Recreational HCE at current harvest levels appears to have limited impacts on nonnative catfishes, while other factors (e.g., habitat) likely play a larger role in structuring these populations.
Solving bilinear tensor least squares problems and application to Hammerstein identification
Authors: Eldén Lars , Ahmadi‐Asl Salman
Published: December 2018

Bilinear tensor least squares problems occur in applications such as Hammerstein system identification and social network analysis. A linearly constrained problem of medium size is considered, and nonlinear least squares solvers of Gauss–Newton‐type are applied to numerically solve it. The problem is separable, and the variable projection method can be used. Perturbation theory is presented and used to motivate the choice of constraint. Numerical experiments with Hammerstein models and random tensors are performed, comparing the different methods and showing that a variable projection method performs best.
Outcomes of an RCT of videoconference vs. in‐person or in‐clinic nutrition and exercise in midlife adults with obesity
Authors: Clark D. O. , Keith N. , Weiner M. , Xu H.
Published: December 2018

Objective

New communication technologies have shown some promise in lifestyle weight loss interventions but may be most effective when leveraging face‐to‐face communications. The study reported here sought to test whether weight loss programme attendance and outcomes are greater when offered in‐person at community sites or remotely via videoconference vs. in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). In a three‐arm randomized trial among 150 FQHC adults, intervention delivery in community‐sites or via videoconference was tested against a clinic‐based lifestyle intervention (enhanced usual care [EUC]).

Methods

Twice weekly, a nutrition topic was reviewed, and exercise sessions were held in a 20‐week programme delivered either in community settings or via videoconference. The primary outcome was the proportion of participants losing more than 2 kg at 6 (end of treatment) and 12 months in intent‐to‐treat analyses.

Results

Mean (SD) age was 53 years, 82% were women, 65% were African–American, 50% reported $18,000 or less household income and 49% tested low in health literacy, and mean (SD) body mass index was 39 kg m−2. The proportion losing more than 2 kg of weight in the community site, videoconference and EUC groups was 33%, 34% and 24%, respectively, at 6 months and 29%, 34% and 29% at 12 months. No differences reached significance. Attendance was poor in all groups; 45% of community site, 58% of videoconference and 16% of EUC participants attended at least one session.

Conclusion

Videoconference and community‐based delivery were as effective as an FQHC‐based weight loss programme.
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia and immune thrombocytopenia following hematopoietic stem cell transplant: A critical review of the literature
Authors: Neunert C.E. , Despotovic J.M.
Published: December 2018

Autoimmune cytopenias (AIC) post‐hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) are rare but exceptionally challenging complication. We conducted a comprehensive literature review and identified a pooled incidence of post‐HSCT autoimmune hemolytic anemia and/or immune thrombocytopenia of 2.66% (SE = 0.27) in pediatric patients. Nonmalignant disease, unrelated donor transplant, peripheral or cord blood stem cell source, conditioning regimen without total body irradiation, and presence of chronic graft‐versus‐host disease were prominent risk factors. Treatment was highly variable, and cytopenias were commonly refractory. AIC represent a significant post‐HSCT complication. We report here the incidence, risk factors, and possible biology behind the development of AIC in pediatric post‐HSCT patients.
Fetal myelomeningocele surgery: Only treating the tip of the iceberg
Authors: AlRefai Alyaa , Drake James , Kulkarni Abhaya V. , Connor Kristin L. , Shannon Patrick , Toi Ants , Chitayat David , Blaser Susan , Church Paige T. , Abbasi Nimrah , Ryan Greg , Van Mieghem Tim
Published: December 2018

Objective

Fetal myelomeningocele (fMMC) surgery improves infant outcomes when compared with postnatal surgery. Surgical selection criteria and the option of pregnancy termination, however, limit the number of cases that are eligible for prenatal surgery. We aimed to quantify what proportion of cases could ultimately benefit from fetal therapy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all cases of fMMC referred to a large tertiary care center over a 10‐year period and assessed their eligibility for fetal surgery, pregnancy termination rates, and actual uptake of the surgery.

Results

Of 158 cases, 67 (42%) were ineligible for fetal surgery based on surgical exclusion criteria. Eleven fetuses (7%) had chromosomal anomalies, 10 of which (91%) had other anomalies on ultrasound. Thirty‐four patients had a combination of maternal and fetal contraindications. Of the remaining 91 eligible cases (58%), 45 (49%) pregnancies were terminated, leaving only 46 (29% of initial 158 cases) as potential candidates for fetal repair. Actual uptake of fetal surgery was 15% (n = 14 of 91), but this increased after a national program was started.

Conclusion

Only a minority of fMMC cases will ultimately undergo fetal surgery. These numbers support the centralization of care in expert centers.