bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resilience of Natural Phytoplankton Communities to Pulse Disturbances from Micropollutant Exposure and Vertical Mixing
Authors: Baho Didier L. , Leu Eva , Pomati Francesco , Hessen Dag O. , Norberg Jon , Moe S. Jannicke , Skjelbred Birger , Nizzetto Luca
Published: July 2019

Freshwaters are increasingly exposed to complex mixtures of pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs) from municipal wastewater, which are known to alter freshwater communities’ structure and functioning. However, their interaction with other disturbances and whether their combined effects can impact ecological resilience (i.e., the ability of a system to tolerate disturbances without altering the system's original structure and processes) remain unexplored. Using in situ mesocosms in 2 lakes with different nutrient levels (mesotrophic and eutrophic), we assessed whether a pulse exposure to sublethal concentrations of 12 PPCPs affects the ecological resilience of natural phytoplankton communities that experienced an abrupt environmental change involving the destabilization of the water column through mixing. Such mixing events are predicted to increase as the effects of climate change unfold, leading to more frequent storms, which disrupt stratification in lakes and force communities to restructure. We assessed their combined effects on community metrics (biomass, species richness, and composition) and their relative resilience using 4 indicators (cross-scale, within-scale, aggregation length, and gap length), inferred from phytoplankton communities by discontinuity analysis. The mixing disturbance alone had negligible effects on the community metrics, but when combined with chemical contaminants significant changes were measured: reducing total biomass, species richness, and altered community composition of phytoplankton. Once these changes occurred, they persisted until the end of the experiment (day 20), when the communities’ structures from the 2 highest exposure levels diverged from the controls. The resilience indicators were not affected by PPCPs but differed significantly between lakes, with lower resilience found in the eutrophic lake. Thus, PPCPs can significantly alter community structures and reinforce mechanisms that maintain ecosystems in a “degraded state.” Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2197–2208. © 2019 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.
Genotoxic Response and Mortality in 3 Marine Copepods Exposed to Waterborne Copper
Authors: Sahlmann Andrea , Lode Torben , Heuschele Jan , Borgå Katrine , Titelman Josefin , Hylland Ketil
Published: July 2019

Copper (Cu) is an essential trace metal, but may also be toxic to aquatic organisms. Although many studies have investigated the cytotoxicity of Cu, little is known about the in vivo genotoxic potential of Cu in marine invertebrates. We investigated the genotoxicity of Cu in 2 pelagic calanoid copepods, Acartia tonsa and Temora longicornis, and the intertidal harpacticoid copepod Tigriopus brevicornis by exposing them for 6 and 72 h to waterborne Cu (0, 6, and 60 µg Cu/L). A subsequent 24-h period in filtered seawater was used to investigate delayed effects or recovery. Genotoxicity was evaluated as DNA strand breaks in individual copepods using the comet assay. Copper did not increase DNA strand breaks in any of the species at any concentration or time point. The treatment did, however, cause 100% mortality in A. tonsa following exposure to 60 µg Cu/L. Acartia tonsa and T. longicornis were more susceptible to Cu-induced mortality than the benthic harpacticoid T. brevicornis, which appeared to be unaffected by the treatments. The results show major differences in Cu susceptibility among the 3 copepods and also that acute toxicity of Cu to A. tonsa is not directly associated with genotoxicity. We also show that the comet assay can be used to quantify genotoxicity in individual copepods. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2224–2232. © 2019 SETAC.

Abstract

Exposure of 3 marine copepods to waterborne Cu with genotoxicity measured as DNA strand breaks in individual copepods (comet assay) and mortality as end points. Acute toxicity, observed as mortality in Acartia tonsa, was not directly linked to DNA strand breaks.
Time-Variable Exposure Experiments in Conjunction with Higher Tier Population and Effect Modeling to Assess the Risk of Chlorotoluron to Green Algae
Authors: Weber Denis , Weyman Gabriel , Fruhmann Thomas , Gagniarre Marion , Minten Barbara , Memmert Ulrich
Published: July 2019

An algae population model was applied to describe measured effects of pulsed exposure to chlorotoluron on populations of Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata in 2 laboratory flow-through chemostat tests with different exposure regimes. Both tests enabled evaluation of adverse effects on algae during the exposure and population recovery afterward. Impacts on population densities after chlorotoluron exposure were directly visible as biomass loss in the chemostats. Recovery was observed after each exposure peak. The test results indicate that P. subcapitata is unlikely to show an increased sensitivity to chlorotoluron after pulsed exposure. No altered response or adaptation of the algae to chlorotoluron was observed, with the exception of the last high peak in flow-through test 2. Therefore, an adaptation to the test substance cannot be excluded after long-term exposure. However, recovery to the steady-state level after this peak indicates that the growth rate (fitness) was not significantly reduced in the population with higher tolerance. No differences in chlorotoluron impact on the populations over time in terms of growth were detected. Model predictions agreed well with the measured data. The tests and modeling results validate the model to simulate population dynamics of P. subcapitata after pulsed exposure to chlorotoluron. Model predictions and extrapolations with different exposure patterns are considered reliable for chlorotoluron. The good reproducibility of the population behavior in the test systems supports this conclusion. An example modeled extrapolation of the experimental results to other (untested) exposure scenarios shows a potential approach to using the validated model as a supportive tool in risk assessment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2520–2534. © 2019 SETAC
The Effect of Microplastic Ingestion on Survival of the Grass Shrimp Palaemonetes pugio (Holthuis, 1949) Challenged with Vibrio campbellii
Authors: Leads Rachel R. , Burnett Karen G. , Weinstein John E.
Published: July 2019

Recent research indicates that microplastic (<5 mm) ingestion may impact the immune function of marine and aquatic organisms at the tissue and cellular levels; however, their susceptibility to disease following exposure has not been directly investigated. The objective of the present study was to directly evaluate the impact of microplastic ingestion on the susceptibility of the grass shrimp Palaemonetes pugio to bacterial infection with Vibrio campbellii. Grass shrimp were exposed to one of several particle treatments (natural sediment, polyethylene spheres, polypropylene fragments, tire fragments, and polyester fibers) or particle-free water for 96 h at a nominal concentration of 50 000 particles/L prior to a bacterial challenge with V. campbellii. No significant mortality was observed among any of the particle types during the 96-h particle exposure. The survival of grass shrimp following V. campbellii challenge did not vary significantly among shrimp exposed to particle-free water, sediment, polyethylene spheres, polypropylene fragments, tire fragments, and polyester fibers. Grass shrimp cleared the majority of ingested particles and all the ventilated particles within 48 h. The present study shows that microplastic ingestion did not alter the susceptibility of grass shrimp to bacterial infection, and also provides depuration rates for a variety of microplastic shapes and polymer types that were previously lacking. This information increases our understanding of the size- and shape-dependent effects of microplastic ingestion. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2233–2242. © 2019 SETAC.
The effect of decision fatigue on surgeons' clinical decision making
Authors: Persson Emil , Barrafrem Kinga , Meunier Andreas , Tinghög Gustav
Published: July 2019

The depleting effect of repeated decision making is often referred to as decision fatigue. Understanding how decision fatigue affects medical decision making is important for achieving both efficiency and fairness in health care. In this study, we investigate the potential role of decision fatigue in orthopedic surgeons' decisions to operate, exploiting a natural experiment whereby patient allocation to time slots is plausibly randomized at the level of the patient. Our results show that patients who met a surgeon toward the end of his or her work shift were 33 percentage points less likely to be scheduled for an operation compared with those who were seen first. In a logistic regression with doctor‐fixed effects and standard errors clustered at the level of the doctor, the odds of operation were estimated to decrease by 10.5% (odds ratio = 0.895, p < .001; 95% CI [0.842, 0.951]) for each additional patient appointment in the doctors' work shift. This pattern in surgeons' decision making is consistent with decision fatigue. Because long shifts are common in medicine, the effect of decision fatigue could be substantial and may have important implications for patient outcomes.
Polyphenol intake and differentiated thyroid cancer risk in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) cohort
Authors: Zamora‐Ros Raul , Cayssials Valerie , Franceschi Silvia , Kyrø Cecilie , Weiderpass Elisabete , Hennings Joakim , Sandström Maria , Tjønneland Anne , Olsen Anja , Overvad Kim , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Truong Thérèse , Mancini Francesca Romana , Katzke Verena , Kühn Tilman , Boeing Heiner , Trichopoulou Antonia , Karakatsani Anna , Martimianaki Georgia , Palli Domenico , Krogh Vittorio , Panico Salvatore , Tumino Rosario , Sacerdote Carlotta , Lasheras Cristina , Rodríguez‐Barranco Miguel , Amiano Pilar , Colorado‐Yohar Sandra M. , Ardanaz Eva , Almquist Martin , Ericson Ulrika , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita H. Bas , Vermeulen Roel , Schmidt Julie A. , Byrnes Graham , Scalbert Augustin , Agudo Antonio , Rinaldi Sabina
Published: July 2019

Polyphenols are bioactive compounds with several anticarcinogenic activities; however, human data regarding associations with thyroid cancer (TC) is still negligible. Our aim was to evaluate the association between intakes of total, classes and subclasses of polyphenols and risk of differentiated TC and its main subtypes, papillary and follicular, in a European population. The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition cohort included 476,108 men and women from 10 European countries. During a mean follow‐up of 14 years, there were 748 incident differentiated TC cases, including 601 papillary and 109 follicular tumors. Polyphenol intake was estimated at baseline using validated center/country‐specific dietary questionnaires and the Phenol‐Explorer database. In multivariable‐adjusted Cox regression models, no association between total polyphenol and the risks of overall differentiated TC (HRQ4 vs. Q1 = 0.99, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.77–1.29), papillary (HRQ4 vs. Q1 = 1.06, 95% CI 0.80–1.41) or follicular TC (HRQ4 vs. Q1 = 1.10, 95% CI 0.55–2.22) were found. No associations were observed either for flavonoids, phenolic acids or the rest of classes and subclasses of polyphenols. After stratification by body mass index (BMI), an inverse association between the intake of polyphenols (p‐trend = 0.019) and phenolic acids (p‐trend = 0.007) and differentiated TC risk in subjects with BMI ≥ 25 was observed. In conclusion, our study showed no associations between dietary polyphenol intake and differentiated TC risk; although further studies are warranted to investigate the potential protective associations in overweight and obese individuals.
Omega‐3 and omega‐3/curcumin‐enriched fruit juices decrease tumour growth and reduce muscle wasting in tumour‐bearing mice
Authors: Busquets Sílvia , Marmonti Enrica , Oliva Francesc , Simoes Estefanía , Luna Daniel , Mathisen Janne Sand , López‐Soriano Francisco J. , Öhlander Maria , Argilés Josep M.
Published: July 2019

Background

The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the effects of the administration of a juice containing essential nutrients (marine omega‐3 fatty acids: EPA and DHA, a polyphenol‐rich juice, vitamin D3, essential amino acids and dietary fibre) (CAX) and a juice also enriched with curcumin (CUR), alone or in combination with a chemotherapeutic agent (sorafenib) in a mouse cancer cachexia model.

Methods

Administration of CAX and CUR in the form of jellified pellets to mice bearing the Lewis lung carcinoma.

Results

Administration of CAX and CUR in the form of jellified pellets to mice bearing the Lewis lung carcinoma resulted in a 12 and 18% reduction in tumour weight, respectively, but no additive effect in combination with sorafenib was seen. No effects on metastases measurements were observed. In spite of the reduction of the primary tumour, the chemotherapy treatment alone did not result in any changes in body weight. Conversely, in combination with sorafenib, both juices had an important effect on body weight loss. CUR also had an effect without chemotherapy. Concerning muscle weight, tibialis muscle mass was increased as a result of CAX and CUR treatment.

Conclusions

It is concluded that administration of omega‐3/protein and omega‐3/protein/curcumin‐enriched fruit juices may have beneficial effects on muscle wasting and could be part of a multi‐modal therapy for cancer cachexia.
High‐intensity interval training slows down tumor progression in mice bearing Lewis lung carcinoma
Authors: Alves Christiano R. R. , das Neves Willian , Tobias Gabriel C. , de Almeida Ney R. , Barreto Raphael F. , Melo Camila M. , Carneiro Camila de G. , Garcez Alexandre T. , Faria Daniele de P. , Chammas Roger , Brum Patricia C.
Published: July 2019

Background

We aimed to determine whether a short‐term high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) protocol could counteract tumor progression in an experimental model of lung cancer.

Methods

Mice were injected subcutaneously with Lewis Lung Carcinoma (LLC) cells and then randomly assigned into two groups: sedentary mice (LLC group) or mice submitted to HIIT (LLC + HIIT group).

Results

LLC + HIIT group had lower tumor mass than LLC group (‐52% after 18 days), with no differences in glycolytic activity as measured by PET/CT imaging. HIIT increased Cd274 (PD‐L1) mRNA expression by ~6 folds and Vegfa mRNA expression by 2.5 folds, suggesting that HIIT stimulates local inflammation and angiogenesis in LLC tumors. Additionally, HIIT improved running capacity, skeletal muscle contractility and survival rate in LLC tumor‐bearing mice.

Conclusions

These novel findings demonstrate that a short‐term HIIT protocol slows down tumor progression, ultimately increasing survival in LLC tumor‐bearing mice. Thus, this study provides novel pre‐clinical evidence that exercise training may be a beneficial co‐therapy for lung cancer.
Reduced expression of calcitonin receptor is closely associated with age‐related loss of the muscle stem cell pool
Authors: Ikemoto‐Uezumi Madoka , Uezumi Akiyoshi , Zhang Lidan , Zhou Heying , Hashimoto Naohiro , Okamura Kikuo , Matsui Yasumoto , Tsukazaki Koji , Hosoyama Tohru , Nakatani Masashi , Morita Mitsuhiro , Yamada Harumoto , Tsuchida Kunihiro , Fukada So‐ichiro
Published: July 2019

Background

Muscle regenerative capacity reduces during aging. Decline in the muscle stem cell (MuSC) pool is thought to be a cause of age‐related muscle regeneration insufficiency. However, why the number of MuSCs decreases with age remains unclear. We previously found that the calcitonin receptor (Calcr) is expressed by MuSCs and plays a pivotal role in maintaining the MuSC pool. In this study, we examined whether Calcr is involved in the age‐related decrease in MuSC number.

Methods and results

Calcr expression in MuSCs was assessed by immunofluorescence staining using muscle sections during postnatal growth and during aging. The role of Calcr during development, postnatal growth and adult stage was examined using mice conditionally deleted Calcr in myogenic lineage cells. To explore the significance of Calcr signaling on age‐related changes in MuSC number, expression levels of endogenous Calcr ligands were examined. Immunohistological examination revealed that Calcr expression grew stronger as MuSCs became quiescent. Conditional Calcr deletion in early myogenic lineage cells did not affect the initial capacity of the MuSC pool, but promoted age‐dependent MuSC loss. Expression of endogenous Calcr ligands remained unchanged with aging. Calcr expression in MuSCs, however, decreased significantly in aged muscle compared with young muscle in both mice and humans, and this reduction was accompanied by a loss of MuSCs.

Conclusions

Our study revealed significant reduction of Calcr in MuSCs with age, possibly leading to age‐related loss of the MuSC pool. Thus, Calcr signaling could represent a promising target for preventing aging‐associated muscle regeneration insufficiency.
Purification of monoclonal antibodies in a stirred cell with polyethyleneimine‐modified polyethersulfone ultrafiltration membrane
Authors: Wagner Alexandra , Ferraria Ana M , Do Rego Ana MB , Mateus Marília , Azevedo Ana M
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Charged ultrafiltration membranes combined with optimal operating conditions can be used to enable monoclonal antibody purification. Positively charged ligands bound to the membrane surface can significantly contribute to the adsorption of negatively charged proteins and enhance the purification process.

RESULTS

In this work, commercially available 500 kDa polyethersulfone ultrafiltration membranes were modified by sulfonation, followed by deposition of polyethyleneimine (PEI) and crosslinking with butanedioldiglycidylether. Polymer molecules of 2 and 10 kDa were used to evaluate how polymer size influences the fractionation of a harvested Chinese hamster ovary cell culture fluid containing a monoclonal antibody by ultrafiltration at different operational pH values. The precursor and modified membranes were analyzed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, which confirmed the successful modification of membranes. Nitrogen analysis showed the presence of amine groups, clearly confirming immobilization of PEI onto the membrane surface. When 10 kDa PEI is chosen for membrane modification, the intensity of this signal increases, as predicted for a higher‐molecular‐weight polymer. Ultrafiltration performance indicators (fluxes, transmissions, yields) were determined and compared for the modified and precursor membranes, with the PEI‐derived membranes showing ability for pH modulation of selectivity.

CONCLUSION

High purities were consistently observed at pH 9 owing to a simultaneous decrease in the transmission of soluble protein and increase in both IgG transmission and adsorptive capacity of the membranes. A single‐step process at pH 9 renders a permeate with an antibody purity of 96%, using a non‐crosslinked membrane modified with 10 kDa PEI. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Artificial intelligence in the interpretation of breast cancer on MRI
Authors: Sheth Deepa , Giger Maryellen L.
Published: July 2019

Advances in both imaging and computers have led to the rise in the potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) in various tasks in breast imaging, going beyond the current use in computer‐aided detection to include diagnosis, prognosis, response to therapy, and risk assessment. The automated capabilities of AI offer the potential to enhance the diagnostic expertise of clinicians, including accurate demarcation of tumor volume, extraction of characteristic cancer phenotypes, translation of tumoral phenotype features to clinical genotype implications, and risk prediction. The combination of image‐specific findings with the underlying genomic, pathologic, and clinical features is becoming of increasing value in breast cancer. The concurrent emergence of newer imaging techniques has provided radiologists with greater diagnostic tools and image datasets to analyze and interpret. Integrating an AI‐based workflow within breast imaging enables the integration of multiple data streams into powerful multidisciplinary applications that may lead the path to personalized patient‐specific medicine. In this article we describe the goals of AI in breast cancer imaging, in particular MRI, and review the literature as it relates to the current application, potential, and limitations in breast cancer.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1310–1324.
Preclinical Optical Imaging to Study Pathogenesis, Novel Therapeutics and Diagnostics Against Orthopaedic Infection
Authors: Thompson John M. , Miller Lloyd S.
Published: July 2019

Preclinical in vivo optical imaging includes bioluminescence imaging (BLI) and fluorescence imaging (FLI), which provide noninvasive and longitudinal monitoring of biological processes in an in vivo context. In vivo BLI involves the detection of photons of light from bioluminescent bacteria engineered to naturally emit light in preclinical animal models of infection. Meanwhile, in vivo FLI involves the detection of photons of a longer emission wavelength of light after exposure of a fluorophore to a shorter excitation wavelength of light. In vivo FLI has been used in preclinical animal models to detect fluorescent‐labeled host proteins or cells (often in engineered fluorescent reporter mice) to understand host‐related processes, or to detect injectable near‐infrared fluorescent probes as a novel approach for diagnosing infection. This review describes the use of in vivo optical imaging in preclinical models of orthopaedic implant‐associated infection (OIAI), including (i) pathogenesis of the infectious course, (ii) monitoring efficacy of antimicrobial prophylaxis and therapy and (iii) evaluating novel near‐infrared fluorescent probes for diagnosing infection. Finally, we describe optoacoustic imaging and fluorescence image‐guided surgery, which are recent technologies that have the potential to translate to diagnosing and treating OIAI in humans. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:2269–2277, 2019
Prevotella intermedia and periodontitis are associated with severe asthma
Authors: Lopes Mabel P. , Cruz Álvaro A. , Xavier Márcia T. , Stöcker Andreas , Carvalho‐Filho Paulo , Miranda Patrícia M. , Meyer Roberto J. , Soledade Kaliane R. , Gomes‐Filho Isaac S. , Trindade Soraya C.
Published: July 2019

Background

Periodontitis, an inflammatory disease of multibacterial etiology that affects the protective and supporting tissues surrounding teeth, can influence the course of respiratory diseases, such as asthma, due to epithelial alterations arising from inflammatory and immunological processes, bronchial remodeling, or by the aspiration of pathogenic colonizers found in periodontal pockets. This study evaluated the levels of periodontal pathogens Prevotella intermedia, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, Tannerella forsythia, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in the subgingival biofilm of individuals with and without severe asthma.

Methods

A case‐control study enrolling 457 individuals (220 with asthma and 237 without asthma) was conducted at the Program for Control of Asthma in Bahia (ProAR) Clinic located in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain data on sociodemographic, health status, and lifestyle habits. A clinical periodontal assessment was performed, including bleeding on probing, probing depth, and clinical attachment level. Subgingival biofilm was collected at the deepest site of each sextant, and bacterial DNA was extracted. Quantitative real‐time PCR analysis was performed to detect and relatively quantify periodontopathogens in the biofilm.

Results

Statistically significant positive associations were found between periodontitis and severe asthma, (odds ratio [OR]adjusted]: 4.00; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.26 to 7.10). High levels of P. intermedia were found in association with the presence of severe asthma (ORadjusted: 2.64; 95% CI: 1.62 to 4.39; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The present results suggest that periodontitis and P. intermedia are associated with severe asthma. However, the functional consequences of this dysbiosis upon asthma susceptibility and its phenotypes remain unclear.
A point‐of‐care test of active matrix metalloproteinase‐8 predicts triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells‐1 (TREM‐1) levels in saliva
Authors: Räisänen Ismo T. , Heikkinen Anna Maria , Pakbaznejad Esmaeili Elmira , Tervahartiala Taina , Pajukanta Riitta , Silbereisen Angelika , Bostanci Nagihan , Sorsa Timo
Published: July 2019

Background

This cross‐sectional study aims to investigate if a point‐of‐care (PoC) test of active matrix metalloproteinase‐8 (aMMP‐8) predicts levels of inflammation amplifier triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells‐1 (TREM‐1) and its putative ligand the neutrophil peptidoglycan recognition protein 1 (PGLYRP1) in saliva.

Methods

Forty‐seven adolescents, aged 15 to 17 years, were tested with aMMP‐8 PoC test, which was followed by a full‐mouth clinical examination of the assessment of periodontal, mucosal, and oral health. TREM‐1 and PGLYRP1 levels were analyzed by ELISA. The immunofluorometric assay (IFMA) specific for aMMP‐8 was used as the reference method.

Results

Fourteen saliva samples out of a total of 47 showed positivity for aMMP‐8 PoC test. Both the TREM‐1 and the aMMP‐8 (IFMA) levels were significantly elevated among the aMMP‐8 PoC test positives compared with the PoC test negatives (P < 0.05). Moreover, aMMP‐8 levels assessed by IFMA showed a strong positive correlation with TREM‐1 levels in saliva (r = 0.777, P < 0.001). The number of sites with a probing depth of ≥4 mm was significantly lower among the adolescents that had a negative aMMP‐8 PoC test result, and TREM‐1 levels < 75 pg/mL (P < 0.05). In contrast, adolescents with a positive aMMP‐8 PoC test result (i.e., elevated aMMP‐8 levels) together with elevated TREM‐1 levels had a significantly higher number of periodontal pockets with ≥4 mm (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The present study validated usability of aMMP‐8 PoC test for predicting “proinflammatory” salivary profile and periodontal health status in adolescents.
On the microstructure and the origin of intermetallic phase seams in magnetic pulse welding of aluminum and steel
Authors: Böhme M. , Sharafiev S. , Schumacher E. , Böhm S. , Wagner M.F.X.
Published: July 2019

The microstructure of aluminum‐steel compounds fabricated by magnetic pulse welding are investigated. Electron backscatter diffraction, energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy revealed the existence of several different phases along the weld seam. While one layer could be identified as aluminum solid solution, a very thin layer close to the steel side of the compound eluded detailed characterization by scanning electron microscopy techniques. Transmission electron microscopy and selected area electron diffraction investigations of this layer revealed a mix of nanocrystalline and amorphous parts. When ambient pressure was reduced to 1 mbar during welding, no interlayers were observed in the samples. This suggests that the interlayers are precipitates of the jet that is formed during conventional impact welding.
3D cold pressure welded components – From the bonding mechanisms to the production of high strength joints
Authors: Gerlitzky C. , Kuhn C. , Groche P. , Tran T.H. , Zhang S. , Peter N.J. , Rohwerder M.
Published: July 2019

In this work, a comprehensive analysis of the bonding mechanism involved in the formation of highly stable cold pressure welded aluminum‐steel components is presented. After identification of relevant process steps to realize bonding the process is modified. Focusing on surface preparation methods, systematic manipulations are employed to identify the relevant parameters promoting the bond formation. The analysis is carried out by tensile stress testing of micro and macro samples as well as high resolution imaging of the joint zone. The results are enables in a deeper understanding of the bonding mechanism.
Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) Seed Total Protein and Protein Fractions Digests Reduce Biomarkers of Inflammation and Atherosclerosis in Macrophages In Vitro
Authors: Grancieri Mariana , Martino Hercia Stampini Duarte , Gonzalez de Mejia Elvira
Published: July 2019

Scope

The objectives are to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory and anti‐atherosclerotic effects of digested total protein and digested protein fractions from chia seed in macrophages in vitro.

Methods and results

Total protein and protein fractions (albumin, globulin, glutelin, and prolamin) are isolated from chia seed and digested using simulated gastrointestinal conditions, resulting in digested total protein (DTP) and digested protein fractions (DPF). DTP and DPF are applied (1.0 mg mL−1) in RAW 264.4 macrophages stimulated with LPS (1 µg mL−1) for inflammation or ox‐LDL (80 µg mL−1) for atherosclerosis. In the inflammatory process, DTP and DPF reduce p‐NF‐κB, iNOS, p‐JNK, and AP‐1. Digested glutelin reduces the secretion of nitric oxide (65.1%), reactive oxygen species (19.7%), prostaglandins (34.6%), TNF‐α (24.1%), MCP‐1 (18.9%), IL‐6 (39.6%), and IL‐10 (68.7%). DTP and DPF reduce the NF‐κB translocation to nuclei. DTP and digested glutelin reduce iCAM expression (86.4%, 80.8%), LOX‐1 (37.3%, 35.7%), iNOS (67.0%, 42.2%), and NF‐κB (57.5%, 71.1%). DTP is effective in reducing secretion of nitric oxide (43.4%), lipid accumulation (41.9%), prostaglandins (41.9%), TNF‐α (43.3%), MCP‐1 (47.6%), and IL‐6 (50.5%). Peptides from chia DTP and DPF are also characterized.

Conclusion

DTP and digested glutelin from chia seed reduce expression and secretion of markers related to inflammation and atherosclerosis pathways.
Anti‐Diabetic, Anti‐Inflammatory, and Anti‐Oxidant Effects of Naringenin in an In Vitro Human Model and an In Vivo Murine Model of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Nguyen‐Ngo Caitlyn , Willcox Jane C , Lappas Martha
Published: July 2019

Scope

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), which affects up to 20% of pregnant women, is associated with maternal peripheral insulin resistance, low‐grade inflammation, and oxidative stress. The flavonoid naringenin has potent anti‐diabetic, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐oxidative properties; however, its effects in GDM remain unknown. The study aimed to determine the effects of naringenin on glucose metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with GDM both in vitro and in vivo.

Methods and results

In vitro, human tissue samples obtained at term elective Caesarean section are stimulated with tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF) to develop a GDM‐like environment. Naringenin treatment significantly improves TNF‐impaired glucose uptake in skeletal muscle. In placenta and visceral adipose tissue (VAT), naringenin significantly reduces expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and increases antioxidant mRNA expression. Mechanistically, naringenin suppresses nuclear factor κB activation. In vivo, pregnant heterozygous db/+ mice are used to model GDM. Daily intraperitoneal injections of GDM mice with naringenin from gestational day 10–17 significantly improve glucose tolerance, reduces IL1A mRNA expression, and increases antioxidant mRNA expression in placenta, VAT, and subcutaneous adipose tissue.

Conclusion

Naringenin is shown to improve insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with GDM and shows promise as a novel preventive therapeutic.
Monounsaturated Fatty Acids in a High‐Fat Diet and Niacin Protect from White Fat Dysfunction in the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Montserrat‐de la Paz Sergio , Naranjo Maria C. , Millan‐Linares Maria C. , Lopez Sergio , Abia Rocio , Biessen Erik A. L. , Muriana Francisco J. G. , Bermudez Beatriz
Published: July 2019

Scope

Obesity is a principal causative factor of metabolic syndrome. Niacin potently regulates lipid metabolism. Replacement of saturated fatty acids by MUFAs or inclusion of omega‐3 long‐chain PUFAs in the diet improves plasma lipid levels. However, the potential benefits of niacin in combination with MUFAs or omega‐3 long‐chain PUFAs against white adipose tissue (WAT) dysfunction in the high fat diet (HFD)‐induced metabolic syndrome are unknown.

Methods and results

Male Lepob/obLDLR−/− mice are fed a chow diet or HFDs based on milk cream (21% kcal), olive oil (21% kcal), or olive oil (20% kcal) plus 1% kcal from eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids, including immediate‐release niacin (1% w/v) in drinking water, for 8 weeks. Mice are then phenotyped. Dietary MUFAs are identified as positive regulators of adipose NAD+ signaling pathways by triggering NAD+ biosynthesis via the salvage pathway. This coexists with overexpression of genes involved in recognition of NAD+ and fatty acids, a surrounding lipid environment dominated by exogenous oleic acid and an alternatively activated macrophage profile, which culminate in a healthy expansion of WAT and improvement of several hallmarks that typify the metabolic syndrome.

Conclusion

Niacin in combination with dietary MUFAs can favor WAT homeostasis in the development of HFD‐induced obesity and metabolic syndrome.
Influence of Age on Pearl Production Performance, Enzymatic Activity, and Immune-Related Gene Expression of the Pearl Oyster Pinctada fucata martensii
Authors: Adzigbli Linda , Yu Wanmei , Li Junhui , Yang Chuangye , Deng Yuewen
Published: July 2019

This study evaluated the influences of age on the pearl production performance and innate immune responses of the pearl oyster Pinctada fucata martensii. Two age-groups (group A: 1.5 years of age; group B: 2.5 years of age) were subjected to a nucleus insertion operation. The immune- and antioxidant-related enzymatic activities and expression levels of immune-related genes in both groups were evaluated 3 d after the nucleus insertion operation. The survival rate, retention rate, and biomineralization capacity of the groups were examined when the pearls were harvested. The results showed that the activities of alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and the expressions of the SOD, GPx, heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), and HSP90 genes were significantly higher in group A than in group B 3 d after the nucleus insertion operation (P < 0.05). Group A had a significantly higher survival rate than group B at 3, 7, and 30 d after the operation and at harvest. Group A had a significantly higher retention rate and pearl thickness than group B at harvest. The expression levels of the biomineralization genes for nacrein and pearlin were significantly higher in group A than in group B (P < 0.05), whereas expression of the biomineralization gene for Pif-177 was significantly higher in group B. Collectively, these results suggested that 1.5-year-old pearl oysters have better pearl production performance and innate immune response to nucleus insertion operations, so selecting young pearl oysters to use as host and donor oysters shows promise as a process for improving the quality of cultured pearls.
Higher‐order and higher floating‐point precision numerical approximations of finite strain elasticity moduli
Authors: Connolly Stephen John , Mackenzie Donald , Gorash Yevgen
Published: July 2019

Two real‐domain numerical approximation methods for accurate computation of finite strain elasticity moduli are developed and their accuracy and computational efficiency are investigated, with reference to hyperelastic constitutive models with known analytical solutions. The methods are higher‐order and higher floating‐point precision numerical approximation, the latter being novel in this context. A general formula for higher‐order approximation finite difference schemes is derived and a new procedure is proposed to implement increased floating‐point precision. The accuracy of the approximated elasticity moduli is investigated numerically using higher‐order approximations in standard double precision and increased quadruple precision. It is found that, as the order of the approximation increases, the elasticity moduli tend toward the analytical solution. Using higher floating‐point precision, the approximated elasticity moduli for all orders of approximation are found to be more accurate than the standard double precision evaluation of the analytical moduli. Application of the techniques to a finite element problem shows that the numerically approximated methods obtain convergence equivalent to the analytical method but require greater computational effort. It is concluded that numerical approximation of elasticity moduli is a powerful and effective means of implementing advanced constitutive models in the finite element method without prior derivation of difficult analytical solutions.
Synthesis of bio‐based internal and external cross‐linkers based on tannic acid for preparation of antibacterial superabsorbents
Authors: Dabbaghi Alaleh , Kabiri Kourosh , Ramazani Ali , Zohuriaan‐Mehr Mohammad J. , Jahandideh Arash
Published: July 2019

Recent researches focus on the synthesis of new cross‐linkers from natural resources. In the current work, functionalized tannic acid was employed as a replacement of petroleum‐based cross‐linkers because of its outstanding biochemical properties. Alkene‐ and epoxy‐functionalized tannic acids were synthesized as internal and external cross‐linkers, respectively. Cross‐linker structures were characterized with Ft‐IR and 1HNMR analysis. Different amounts, as well as different numbers of alkene functional group, were incorporated during the superabsorbent synthesis. Moreover, the internal cross‐linked superabsorbent was surface cross‐linked with different amounts of epoxy‐functionalized tannic acid and increased the absorbency under load about 10 g g−1. Free absorption properties in water and saline solution, absorbency under load, and rheological properties of superabsorbents were investigated. In addition, the antibacterial activity of the internal and external cross‐linked superabsorbent was studied against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria via different methods and compared with that of conventional superabsorbent.
Health products’ and substance use among pregnant women visiting a tertiary hospital in Belgium: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ceulemans Michael , Van Calsteren Kristel , Allegaert Karel , Foulon Veerle
Published: July 2019

Purpose

To investigate the prevalence and type of health products used among pregnant women visiting a tertiary hospital in Belgium, as well as who advises these products, where women buy these products, which determinants are associated with medication and pregnancy vitamin intake, and preconception lifestyle changes such as folic acid intake and substance use.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed at the outpatient obstetrics clinics of the University Hospital Leuven, Belgium between November 2016 and March 2017. All pregnant women 18 years and older and understanding Dutch, French, or English were asked to participate in an online survey.

Results

In total, 379 pregnant women participated. Prevalence of medication use during the preceding week was 52%. Paracetamol (14%), levothyroxine (13%), and antacids (9%) were the most frequently used medicines. Pregnancy vitamins were used by 86% of women, and 97% had used a pregnancy vitamin somewhere during pregnancy. Only 56% initiated folic acid supplementation at least 1 month before pregnancy. Preconception use of folic acid among women following assisted reproductive technology was 73%. Inappropriate use of health products was observed among 3% of women. Prevalence of alcohol use and/or smoking during the preceding week was 6%. Alcohol and smoking cessation mainly occurred after pregnancy diagnosis.

Conclusion

Pregnant women living in Belgium frequently use medicines, pregnancy vitamins, and other health products. Preconception lifestyle changes such as folic acid intake and alcohol and smoking cessation are poorly implemented. Public campaigns and interventions are needed to improve preconception care and counselling.
An overview of structure, function, and regulation of pyruvate kinases
Authors: Schormann Norbert , Hayden Katherine L. , Lee Paul , Banerjee Surajit , Chattopadhyay Debasish
Published: July 2019

In the last step of glycolysis Pyruvate kinase catalyzes the irreversible conversion of ADP and phosphoenolpyruvate to ATP and pyruvic acid, both crucial for cellular metabolism. Thus pyruvate kinase plays a key role in controlling the metabolic flux and ATP production. The hallmark of the activity of different pyruvate kinases is their tight modulation by a variety of mechanisms including the use of a large number of physiological allosteric effectors in addition to their homotropic regulation by phosphoenolpyruvate. Binding of effectors signals precise and orchestrated movements in selected areas of the protein structure that alter the catalytic action of these evolutionarily conserved enzymes with remarkably conserved architecture and sequences. While the diverse nature of the allosteric effectors has been discussed in the literature, the structural basis of their regulatory effects is still not well understood because of the lack of data representing conformations in various activation states. Results of recent studies on pyruvate kinases of different families suggest that members of evolutionarily related families follow somewhat conserved allosteric strategies but evolutionarily distant members adopt different strategies. Here we review the structure and allosteric properties of pyruvate kinases of different families for which structural data are available.
Comparison of Rosetta flexible‐backbone computational protein design methods on binding interactions
Authors: Loshbaugh Amanda L. , Kortemme Tanja
Published: July 2019

Computational design of binding sites in proteins remains difficult, in part due to limitations in our current ability to sample backbone conformations that enable precise and accurate geometric positioning of side chains during sequence design. Here we present a benchmark framework for comparison between flexible‐backbone design methods applied to binding interactions. We quantify the ability of different flexible backbone design methods in the widely used protein design software Rosetta to recapitulate observed protein sequence profiles assumed to represent functional protein/protein and protein/small molecule binding interactions. The CoupledMoves method, which combines backbone flexibility and sequence exploration into a single acceptance step during the sampling trajectory, better recapitulates observed sequence profiles than the BackrubEnsemble and FastDesign methods, which separate backbone flexibility and sequence design into separate acceptance steps during the sampling trajectory. Flexible‐backbone design with the CoupledMoves method is a powerful strategy for reducing sequence space to generate targeted libraries for experimental screening and selection.
Physiologically‐Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling vs. Allometric Scaling for the Prediction of Infliximab Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Malik Paul R. V. , Edginton Andrea N.
Published: July 2019

The comparative performances of physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling and allometric scaling for predicting the pharmacokinetics (PKs) of large molecules in pediatrics are unknown. Therefore, both methods were evaluated for accuracy in translating knowledge of infliximab PKs from adults to children. PBPK modeling was performed using the base model for large molecules in PK‐Sim version 7.4 with modifications in Mobi. Eight population PK models from literature were reconstructed and scaled by allometry to pediatrics. Evaluation data included seven pediatric studies (~4–18 years). Both methods performed comparably with 66.7% and 68.6% of model‐predicted concentrations falling within twofold of the observed concentrations for PBPK modeling and allometry, respectively. Considerable variability was noted among the allometric models. Therefore, pediatric clinical trial planning would benefit from using approaches that require predictions depending on the specific question i.e., PBPK modeling and allometry.
Dissociation and Formation Kinetics of Iron–Boron Pairs in Silicon after Phosphorus Implantation Gettering
Authors: Khelifati Nabil , Laine Hannu S. , Vähänissi Ville , Savin Hele , Bouamama Fatima Zohra , Bouhafs Djoudi
Published: July 2019

Herein, the results of a systematic study on the kinetics of dissociation and formation of iron–boron (FeB) pairs in boron‐doped Czochralski silicon after phosphorus implantation gettering of iron at different temperatures are reported. The aim herein is threefold: 1) investigation of the dissociation kinetics of the FeB pairs by standardized illumination as a function of iron concentration after the gettering process; 2) study of the kinetics of their association; and 3) extraction of the characteristic parameters of these two phenomena for gettered samples, in particular the effective time constants of dissociation and association as well as the constant of material, which describes the dissociation rate well in the absence of other recombination channels.
Nitrogen as a Suitable Replacement for Argon within Methane‐Based Hot‐Wall Graphene Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Gausden Johannes , Siris Rita , Stimpel-Lindner Tanja , McEvoy Niall , Duesberg Georg S. , Hallam Toby
Published: July 2019

Of the gases frequently used during graphene chemical vapor deposition (CVD), argon plays no direct chemical role and therefore may be suitable for substitution with the cheaper alternative of nitrogen. The impact of using nitrogen as a carrier gas in methane‐based hot‐wall graphene CVD is investigated using Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy. No increase in the nitrogen signal is observed within graphene grown within a nitrogen atmosphere within the detection limits of the spectroscopic techniques used.
The effects of Cernitin® on inflammatory parameters and benign prostatic hyperplasia: An in vitro study
Authors: Dizeyi Nishtman , Mattisson Ingrid Yao , Ramnemark Lena , Grabe Magnus , Abrahamsson Per‐Anders
Published: July 2019

The pollen extract Cernitin® is widely used for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and non‐bacterial chronin prostatitis. However, little is known about the underlying molecular mechanisms to explain the clinical effects of Cernitin®. In this study, we sought to investigate the cellular mechanisms by which Cernitin® induces its effects on human prostatic cell lines BPH‐1 and WPMY‐1 and primary human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs) in vitro. We examined the effects of Cernitin® formulas T60 and GBX on the protein expression, proliferation, and cytokines production. Results revealed that Cernitin® upregulated antiinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)‐10 and its receptors IL‐10RA and IL‐10B in addition to the upregulation of tumour necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand in hPBMC. Interestingly, the levels of proinflammatory cytokines IL‐6 and IL‐8 were also increased. Furthermore, Cernitin® had significantly increased the level of IL‐10 in BPH‐1 and WPMY‐1 cells. The level of IL‐6 was also significantly increased in these cells although both T60 and GBX inhibited STAT‐3 phosphorylation. Moreover, Cernitin® formulas had significantly reduced androgen receptor and prostate‐specific antigen protein expression in stromal cells (p < .05). Treatment with GBX and T60 had significantly inhibited proliferation of BPH (p < .001) and stromal cells (p < .05), in a dose‐dependent manner. Taken together, treatment with Cernitin® showed to regulate cytokines level in both prostatic cell lines and hPBMCs and it was associated with decreased androgen receptor and prostate‐specific antigen levels WPMY‐1 cells.