bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant community regulates decomposer response to freezing more strongly than the rate or extent of the freezing regime
Authors: Sistla Seeta A. , Schaeffer Sean , Schimel Joshua P.
Published: February 2019

Arctic tundra ecosystems are warming disproportionately in the winter, including a delayed autumn soil freeze‐up. Because microbial processes are extremely sensitive to change in temperature below freezing, overwinter warming strongly stimulates decomposition and nutrient mineralization and ultimately promotes the conversion of sedge‐dominated tussock tundra into shrub tundra. We characterized the responses of decomposition in shrub tundra and tussock tundra soils to changes in the rate and extent of freezing using laboratory simulations to study a range of active layer freeze‐up scenarios that included variation in time held above 0°C (an acclimation period) and final temperature (−2°C to −20°C). We hypothesized that shrub soil decomposers would be more sensitive to the rate of the freezing process than tussock soil decomposers, but less sensitive to the extent of freezing. Although freezing strongly influenced microbial processes, the effects of freezing tended to not significantly vary across the range freezing regimes tested. Unexpectedly, the tussock‐derived soil decomposer community was more sensitive than shrub‐derived soil to the freezing treatments. Freezing conditions stimulated tussock soil to release more water‐extractable organic carbon (WEOC) that was composed of a greater proportion of microbially derived materials than shrub soil under the same conditions. Freezing‐driven changes in the tussock WEOC pool coincided with reduced microbial decomposer biomass, while the shrub decomposer biomass was relatively insensitive to the freezing treatments. These findings suggest that the microbial community of shrub‐dominated soils is more resistant to the soil freezing process than the tussock‐dominated decomposer community and increases available soil N while reducing labile C release as the soils freeze. Because autumn nutrient dynamics set the stage for overwinter tundra biogeochemical conditions, increasing shrub dominance in tussock tundra may therefore promote both plant N availability and decomposer C limitation during thaw.
Catalytic H2 Evolution by a Mononuclear Cobalt Complex with a Macrocyclic Pentadentate Ligand
Authors: Wang Ping , Liang Guangchao , Boyd Chanteal Laquita , Webster Charles Edwin , Zhao Xuan
Published: February 2019

The utilization of H2 as fuel is considered as a potential solution for future energy demand, and there has been great interest in the design of metal catalysts for the H2 evolution from water with light and/or electricity over the past years. A mononuclear water soluble polypyridyl cobalt complex [Co(N4‐Py)(H2O)](PF6)3 (4b) (N4‐Py = N‐methylpyridine‐2,11‐diaza[3,3](2,6)pyridinophane) was synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, mass spectrum, electrochemistry, and theoretical calculations. It is shown that 4b can catalyze both electro‐ and photocatalytic H2 production in aqueous solutions. Photocatalytic H2 production is achieved with a turnover number (TON) of 200 at pH 6 while electrolytic H2 production is accomplished with a TON of 140 at pH 7. Results from DFT computations indicate that the penta‐coordinated CoII species is the active catalyst in the homogeneous H2 evolution by 4b, and the generation of H2 from a CoII‐H species occurring via mononuclear heterolytic coupling is favorable by –23.0 kcal/mol.
National identification and support for discriminatory policies: The mediating role of beliefs about laïcité in France
Authors: Adam‐Troian Jais , Arciszewski Thomas , Apostolidis Themistoklis
Published: February 2019

In France, laïcité is a legal principle enforcing State secularism. However, research indicates that Modern (vs. traditional) beliefs about laïcité (ML) help legitimate prejudice against minorities. From Social Identity Theory, we hypothesized that ML should be positively linked with national identification, stereotyping, prejudice and support for discrimination. Accordingly, we demonstrate that ML independently predicts support for discriminatory policies (Study 1a, N = 241) and Maghrebi IAT scores (Study 1b, N = 242). ML mediates the link between national identification and Generalized Prejudice (Study 2a, N = 215; Study 2d, N = 114) as well as Support for Discriminatory Policies (Study 2b, N = 250). Experimental corroboration of this mediation was provided (Study 2c, N = 100). An exploratory study showed that priming ML led to more support for discrimination through national identification (Study 3, N = 89). These results reveal the important intergroup regulation feature of ML beliefs in France.
Chiral separation of rasagiline using sulfobutylether‐β‐cyclodextrin: capillary electrophoresis, NMR and molecular modeling study
Authors: Szabó Zoltán‐István , Ludmerczki Róbert , Fiser Béla , Noszál Béla , Tóth Gergő
Published: February 2019

Pressure‐assisted stereospecific capillary electrophoresis method was developed for the determination of enantiomeric purity of the antiparkinsonian agent (R)‐rasagiline. The optimized method, 50 mM glycine‐HCl buffer pH 2, supplied with 30 mM sulfobutylether‐β‐cyclodextrin, at 35°C, applying 12 kV in reversed polarity, and –8 mbar pressure (vacuum), short‐end injection with ‐25 mbar × 2 s, was successful for baseline separation of rasagiline enantiomers (Rs = 3.5 ± 0.1) in a short analysis time. The method was validated according to current guidelines and proved to be reliable, linear, precise and accurate for determination of 0.15% S‐enantiomer as chiral impurity in R‐rasagiline sample, as well as quantification of the eutomer. Method application was tested on a commercial tablet formulation. Determination of spatial structure of diastereomeric associates was based on 1H and 2D ROESY NMR, indicating that the aromatic moiety of the molecule can enter the cyclodextrin cavity. NMR titration and molecular modeling revealed that S‐rasagiline formed a more stable inclusion complex with sulfobutylether‐β‐cyclodextrin, than its antipode, which is in agreement with electrophoretic results.
Make the case for PLA for student‐veterans with strong partnerships, data
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: February 2019

CLEVELAND — Offering credit for prior learning can be a successful tool for recruiting adult learners to your campus. That's often even more true for student‐veterans, whose military service has brought them copious life and learning expertise, which may not always be easy to translate into traditional academic credits. “Learning does not occur only in the classroom,” said TK Stoudt, adjunct instructor at the University of Louisville and graduate student at the University of Wyoming.
Chronotopes of foresight: Models of time‐space in probabilistic, possibilistic and constructivist futures
Authors: Tuomi Ilkka
Published: February 2019

The concept of chronotope was introduced in the 1920s by the Russian neurophysiologist A.A. Ukhtomsky, and extensively used by Mikhail Bakhtin in his analysis of the development of literary forms. Chronotope structures the possibilities for meaningful action and different chronotopes thus generate different forms of agency and future. In this paper, three approaches to foresight are analyzed, showing how their different chronotopes lead to different ways of understanding the future. We differentiate between probabilistic, possibilistic and constructivist frameworks for foresight. Probabilistic approaches are shown to rely on recursive chronotopes that capture future as a repetition of the past. Possibilistic approaches, here exemplified by the “gold standard” Schwartz/GBN scenario method, are shown to rely on narrative chronotopes that can tell stories of emergent futures and the impact of innovation. Scenario methods, however, describe changes in the environment as forces and trends in a recursive chronotope. As a result, they have limited capacity to address qualitative novelty. In contrast to possibilistic and probabilistic approaches, a constructivist dialogical approach described in this paper explicitly aims at integrating qualitative novelty and radical innovation as important elements of foresight. Constructivist foresight does not aim for “knowing” the future; instead, it aims at creating the future. Knowing when to use these different forms of foresight is an important element in strategy and policy development.
Increased ventromedial prefrontal cortex activity and connectivity predict poor sertraline treatment outcome in late‐life depression
Authors: Emam Hadeer , Steffens David C. , Pearlson Godfrey D. , Wang Lihong
Published: February 2019

Objective

Previous studies of imaging predictors on acute treatment response in late‐life depression (LLD) demonstrated that poor response to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is associated with pre‐treatment low functional connectivity (FC) within executive control network and high FC within default‐mode network including the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC). However, there is less research in regional resting‐state functional activity that explains FC changes related to SSRI response.

Methods

Thirty‐six older major depressive disorder (MDD) patients not currently on antidepressant treatment had a baseline, pre‐treatment resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging scan, followed by sertraline treatment for 12 weeks. Depression severity was assessed using the Montgomery‐Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Subjects whose MADRS score decreased less than 50% from baseline or who discontinued sertraline for any reason were classified as nonresponders (n = 21). Subjects whose 12‐week MADRS score dropped greater than or equal to 50% from baseline were defined as responders (n = 15). We conducted the amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation (ALFF) and region of interest (ROI)–to‐ROI FC analyses independently. Significance threshold was set at P < 0.05 with false discovery rate (FDR) correction for multiple comparisons.

Results

Relative to the responder group, the nonresponder group showed significantly less ALFF in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) and greater ALFF in the vmPFC/subgenual cingulate area. For ROI‐to‐ROI connectivity, there was significantly greater connectivity between the vmPFC and the cerebellar vermis in the nonresponder group.

Conclusion

Our study highlighted the association of vmPFC resting‐state activity and connectivity with SSRI response. Future studies are warranted for understanding the role of vmPFC‐vermis connectivity in LLD.
The relationship between basic, instrumental, and advanced activities of daily living and executive functioning in geriatric patients with neurocognitive disorders
Authors: Cornelis Elise , Gorus Ellen , Van Schelvergem Nele , De Vriendt Patricia
Published: February 2019

Objective

Although many studies explored the relationship between executive functions (EF) and activities of daily living (ADLs) in cognitive disorders, previous studies used measurements without well‐defined levels of ADLs. This study explored the relationship between EF and the threefold classification of everyday functioning (basic or b‐, instrumental or i‐, and advanced or a‐ADLs) and examined how EF account for the variance in this triad of everyday functioning.

Methods

A sample of 44 cognitively healthy persons, 41 persons with mild cognitive impairment, and 35 persons with Alzheimer disease were assessed with comprehensive measures of EF and the b‐, i‐, and a‐ADL tools.

Results

Correlations demonstrated that subjects with higher executive dysfunctions have more limitations in b‐, i‐, and a‐ADLs. The highest significant correlations with measures of EF were seen in i‐ and a‐ADLs (ranging from r = −0.193 to r = −0.559, P < 0.05). However, correlations with a‐ADLs were not stronger than with i‐ADLs. The multivariate analyses revealed Trail Making Test A (TMT‐A) as a significant contributor of everyday functioning in b‐ADLs, as well as i‐ and a‐ADLs, and Clock Drawing Test (CDT) and Animal Fluency Test (AFT) seemed to contribute significantly to variance in i‐ and a‐ADLs.

Conclusions

EF are less related to b‐ADLs than i‐ and a‐ADLs and contribute to the same amount of variance to limitations in both i‐ and a‐ADLs. This study recommends using the TMT‐A, CDT, and AFT as screening tools to indicate the need for profound evaluation of ADLs in older persons with neurocognitive disorders.
Increased picture–word interference in chronic and recreational users of cocaine
Authors: Ruiz Manuel J. , Colzato Lorenza S. , Bajo María Teresa , Paolieri Daniela
Published: February 2019

Objective

The correct production of speech depends on the effective use of inhibitory control. Cocaine abuse has been linked to impaired inhibition in the verbal and nonverbal domains. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible impairment of the inhibitory control process engaged in the production of language among chronic cocaine users, both in rehabilitation and recreational contexts.

Method

Researchers obtained an index of semantic interference from a picture–word task performed by chronic cocaine users in rehabilitation (Experiment 1) and recreational cocaine polydrug users (Experiment 2). Cocaine users in both groups were matched for age and intelligence with cocaine‐free health controls. Performance on the picture–word task was analyzed by repeated‐measures analyses of variance.

Results

Both groups of cocaine users showed significantly more semantic interference than their respective cocaine‐free control group. These results suggest a deficit in the ability to inhibit interfering information.

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that cocaine use, even at recreational levels, is associated with specific impairments in the inhibitory mechanism that reduces the activation of overt competing responses in language production. This impairment results in the inefficient avoidance of irrelevant information, inducing errors and slower responses during the production of spoken language.
Immune characteristics correlating with HSV‐1 immune control and effect of squaric acid dibutyl ester on immune characteristics of subjects with frequent herpes labialis episodes
Authors: McTavish Hugh , Zerebiec Katherine W. , Zeller Jay C. , Shekels Laurie L. , Matson Mark A. , Kren Betsy T.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Differences in immune characteristics, including immune gene expression by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), correlating with herpes labialis and good or poor immune control of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1), and how these characteristics change after dosing with squaric acid dibutyl ester (SADBE), were investigated.

Methods

PBMCs were collected from persons positive for IgG against HSV‐1 and having frequent, infrequent, or no herpes labialis outbreaks. The PBMCs were tested for proliferation against HSV‐1 and a fungal antigen (Candida) and immune gene expression in the presence of HSV‐1 and Candida. On day 1 after blood collection the subjects with frequent outbreaks were dosed topically on the arm once with SADBE, and their PBMCs were collected and tested 8 weeks later.

Results

Those with good immune control of their HSV‐1 infection (fewer outbreaks) differ from those with poorer immune control in these ways: (1) Greater PBMC proliferation in vitro to HSV‐1, HSV‐1‐infected cell extracts, and Candida considered together (P < 0.01). (2) Higher expression of IFNG and five other immune‐related genes (P < 0.05 for each) and lower expression of IL5 and two other immune‐related genes (P < 0.05 for each) in PBMCs in vitro stimulated with HSV‐1 virus. The subjects with frequent outbreaks were treated once with SADBE, and 56 days later the PBMCs of these subjects differed from PBMCs from the same subjects taken on day 1 before treatment in exactly the same ways listed above as differences between those with good and poor immune control of HSV‐1, and at the same levels of significance.

Conclusions

Higher IFNG and lower IL5 expression by PBMCs in the presence of HSV‐1 correlate with fewer herpes labialis outbreaks, and a single topical dose of SADBE to the arm of subjects with frequent herpes labialis episodes improves immune response to HSV‐1.
Highly‐expressed P2X7 receptor promotes growth and metastasis of human HOS/MNNG osteosarcoma cells via PI3K/Akt/GSK3β/β‐catenin and mTOR/HIF1α/VEGF signaling
Authors: Zhang Yingchi , Cheng Hao , Li Wenkai , Wu Hua , Yang Yong
Published: February 2019

The P2X7 receptor, an ATP‐gated ion channel, is critical for cancer cell growth, invasiveness, and angiogenesis. Previous studies indicate that P2X7 regulates osteoblast proliferation and osteodeposition and that high P2X7 expression has a pro‐growth effect in osteosarcoma. However, how it functions in osteosarcoma cell growth and metastasis is not clear. Thus, we elucidated molecular mechanisms of P2X7‐dependent positive regulation of osteosarcoma cell proliferation, invasion, migration, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and angiogenesis using in vitro and in vivo models. We confirm that P2X7 is highly‐expressed in human osteosarcoma tumor tissues and HOS/MNNG, MG63, U2OS, SW1353 and SAOS‐2 cell lines. P2X7 receptor stimulation enhanced HOS/MNNG and SAOS‐2 cell proliferation, migration and invasion; but knockdown of P2X7 expression or receptor inhibition had opposite effects. P2X7 positively regulated glycogen content, epithelial to mesenchymal transition and stemness of HOS/MNNG cells. P2X7 activation promoted PI3K/Akt/GSK3β/β‐catenin and mTOR/HIF1α/VEGF signaling, thereby mediating pro‐tumor effects of osteosarcoma cells. Consistent with data from in vitro experiments, systemic administration of P2X7 agonist induced tumor growth, metastasis and tumor‐associated bone destruction in osteosarcoma‐bearing nude mice, whereas a P2X7 antagonist reversed these effects. Thus, the P2X7 receptor participates in regulation of osteosarcoma growth and metastasis and we offer evidence that P2X7 may be a promising therapeutic target for treating osteosarcoma.
Natural Products from Diaporthe arecae with Anti‐Angiogenic Activity
Authors: Chang Fang‐Rong , Wang Shih‐Wei , Li Chi‐Ying , Lu Yen‐Yi , Vanson Liu Shang‐Yin , Chen Ching‐Yeu , Wu Yang‐Chang , Cheng Yuan‐Bin
Published: February 2019

A new indoleglycerol, designated as arecine (1), and twenty‐three known diketopiperazines 2–24 were isolated from the endophytic fungus Diaporthe arecae associated with mangrove Kandelia obovate. Structures of all secondary metabolites 1–24 were identified on the basis of their spectrometric data, especially the nuclear magnetic resonance, optical rotation, and mass data. The absolute stereochemistry of compound 1 was determined by comparing its experimental electronic circular dichroism spectrum to those of in silico generated. Moreover, the 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopic data of isolated diketopiperazines 3–24 were measured in dimethyl sulfoxide‐d6 and presented in Table 2 for a convenient comparison. Pharmacological study showed cordysinin A (2) possessed mild anti‐angiogenic activity, which suppressed tube formation with an IC50 value of 15.1±0.2 μg/mL.
Long noncoding RNA MALAT1 mediates high glucose‐induced glomerular endothelial cell injury by epigenetically inhibiting klotho via methyltransferase G9a
Authors: Li Yebei , Ren Daijin , Xu Gaosi
Published: February 2019

Several recent reporters have indicated the potential role of long noncoding RNA metastasis associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) in diabetic nephropathy (DN). However, these studies mainly focus on renal tubular epithelial cells HK‐2, the role of MALAT1 in human renal glomerular endothelial cells (HRGECs) remains unclear. Hence, this study aimed to explore the role of MALAT1 in high glucose (HG)‐induced HRGECs injury and the underlying epigenetic mechanism. Increased MALAT1 and decreased klotho expression were observed in both renal tissues from DN patients and HG‐exposed HRGECs. Furthermore, MALAT1 expression was negatively correlated with klotho expression. Moreover, both MALAT1 knockdown and klotho overexpression significantly abolished the HG‐induced HRGECs injury. Importantly, klotho overexpression reversed the MALAT1 overexpression‐mediated enhancement of the HG‐induced HRGECs injury. In addition, MALAT1 recruited G9a to elevate H3K9me1, which can bind to the klotho promoter and thus inhibited klotho transcription. In conclusion, MALAT recruits methyltransferase G9a to elevate H3K9me1 and epigenetically inhibits klotho expression, and thus mediates HG‐induced glomerular endothelial cell injury. © 2019 IUBMB Life, 1–9, 2019
Retracted: In vitro genotoxicity assessment of nickel(II) oxide nanoparticles on lymphocytes of human peripheral blood
Authors: Dumala Naresh , Mangalampalli Bhanuramya , Grover Paramjit
Published: February 2019

The current study was intended to elucidate the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity ability of nickel oxide (NiO) nanoparticles (NPs) and assessment of preliminary mechanism of the toxicity. Characterization studies showed that NiO‐NPs have a particle size of 17.94 (±3.48) nm. The particle size of the NPs obtained by dynamic light scattering method in Milli‐Q and RPMI 1640 media was 189.9 (±17.1) and 285.9 (±19.6) nm, respectively. The IC50 concentration for NiO‐NPs after 24 hours of treatment was estimated as 23.58 μg/mL. Comet and cytokinesis‐block micronucleus assays revealed a significant dose‐ and time‐dependent genotoxic potential of NiO‐NPs. Morphological assessment of the lymphocytes upon exposure to NiO‐NPs showed that the mechanism of toxicity was apoptosis. Reactive oxygen species analysis and lipid peroxidation patterns were aligned with the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity endpoints. Thus, the preliminary mechanism of NiO‐NPs for cytotoxicity on lymphocytes was assumed to be oxidative stress‐mediated apoptosis and DNA damage. Furthermore, these NiO‐NPs are considered a potentially hazardous substance at environmentally significant levels. Further investigations are suggested to understand the immunotoxic effects of NiO‐NPs.
Ibandronate Treatment Before and After Implant Insertion Impairs Osseointegration in Aged Rats with Ovariectomy Induced Osteoporosis
Authors: Lotz Ethan M. , Cohen David J. , Ellis Regan A. , Wayne Jennifer S. , Schwartz Zvi , Boyan Barbara D.
Published: February 2019

Excessive decreases in bone volume (BV) and bone mineral density (BMD) can lead to osteoporosis, potentially hindering implant osseointegration. Bisphosphonates are commonly used to combat osteoporosis by slowing osteoclast‐mediated resorption; however, functional osteoclasts are integral to bone remodeling and, thus, implant osseointegration, potentially contraindicating bisphosphonate use during implantation. To optimize the use of implant technologies in patients with compromised bone structure and metabolism, we need a more complete understanding of the biological response to surface design. The goal of this study was to assess the effects of osteoporosis and bisphosphonates on osseointegration of titanium (Ti) implants with microstructured surfaces, which have been shown to support osteoblast differentiation in vitro and rapid osseointegration in vivo. Forty, 8‐month‐old, virgin, female CD Sprague Dawley rats underwent ovariectomy (OVX) or sham (SHOVX) surgery. After 5 weeks, animals were injected subcutaneously with either the bisphosphonate (BIS), Ibandronate (25 µg/kg), or phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) every 25 days. 1 week after the initial injection, Ø2.5mm × 3.5mm microrough (SLA; grit‐blasted/acid etched) implants were placed transcortically in the distal metaphysis of each femur resulting in four groups: 1) SHOVX+PBS; 2) SHOVX+BIS; 3) OVX+PBS; and 4) OVX+BIS. After 28d, qualitative properties of the bone and implant osseointegration were assessed using micro‐computed tomography (microCT), calcified histomorphometry (Van Gieson's stain), and removal torque testing. microCT revealed decreased bone volume in OVX rats, which was slowed by bisphosphonate treatment. Reduced bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC) was evident in OVX+PBS compared to SHOVX+PBS. Although BV/TV was increased in OVX+BIS compared to OVX+PBS, bisphosphonate treatment had no effect on BIC. Removal torque testing revealed a higher maximum torque, torsional stiffness, and torsional energy in SHOVX compared to OVX with no effects due to bisphosphonate treatment. Our results show that osseointegration is decreased in osteoporotic animals. Ibandronate halts the progression of osteoporosis but does not enhance osseointegration. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
The Zarankiewicz problem in 3‐partite graphs
Authors: Tait Michael , Timmons Craig
Published: February 2019

Let be a graph, be an integer, and write for the maximum number of edges in an ‐vertex graph that is ‐partite and has no subgraph isomorphic to . The function has been studied by many researchers. Finding is a special case of the Zarankiewicz problem. We prove an analog of the Kövári‐Sós‐Turán theorem for 3‐partite graphs by showing
urn:x-wiley:10638539:media:jcd21654:jcd21654-math-0009 for . Using Sidon sets constructed by Bose and Chowla, we prove that this upper bound is asymptotically best possible in the case that and is odd, that is, for . In the cases of and , we use a result of Allen, Keevash, Sudakov, and Verstraëte, to show that a similar upper bound holds for all and gives a better constant when . Finally, we point out an interesting connection between difference families from design theory and .
Multiple‐microarray analysis for identification of hub genes involved in tubulointerstial injury in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Zeng Mengru , Liu Jialu , Yang Wenxia , Zhang Shumin , Liu Fuyou , Dong Zheng , Peng Youming , Sun Lin , Xiao Li
Published: February 2019

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a primary cause of renal failure. However, studies providing renal gene expression profiles of diabetic tubulointerstitial injury are scarce and its molecular mechanisms still await clarification. To identify vital genes involved in the diabetic tubulointerstitial injury, three microarray data sets from gene expression omnibus (GEO) were downloaded. A total of 127 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by limma package. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) plots showed that sister chromatid cohesion was the most significant enriched gene set positively correlated with the DN group while retinoid X receptor binding was the most significant enriched gene set positively correlated with the control group. Enriched Gene Ontology (GO) annotations and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways of DEGs mostly included extracellular matrix organization, extracellular space, extracellular matrix structural constituent, and Staphylococcus aureus infection. Twenty hub genes from three significant modules were ascertained by Cytoscape. Correlation analysis and subgroup analysis between hub genes and clinical features of DN showed that ALB, ANXA1, APOH, C3, CCL19, COL1A2, COL3A1, COL4A1, COL6A3, CXCL6, DCN, EGF, HRG, KNG1, LUM, SERPINA3, SPARC, SRGN, and TIMP1 may involve in diabetic tubulointerstitial injury. ConnectivityMap analysis indicated the most significant three compounds are 5182598, thapsigargin and 5224221. In conclusion, this study may provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying diabetic tubulointerstitial injury as well as potential targets for diagnosis and therapeutics of DN.
Now or Never: Perceptions of Uniqueness Induce Acceptance of Price Increases for Experiences More Than for Objects
Authors: Bastos Wilson
Published: February 2019

Seven studies test and support the prediction that consumers are more willing to accept a price increase for an experiential versus a material purchase; an effect explained by the greater uniqueness of experiences. Critically, the uniqueness model advanced here is found to be independent of the happiness consumers derive from the purchase. To gain a deeper understanding of the uniqueness mechanism, this investigation then advances and tests a four‐facet framework of uniqueness (unique opportunity, unique purchase, unique identity, and counterconformity). Together, the findings converge on the conclusion that consumers perceive the opportunity to have a particular experience (vs. object) as more unique, and this unique opportunity increases their willingness to accept a price increase. Overall, this work extends the experiential versus material purchases literature into a new domain—that of pricing; identifies the dimension—uniqueness—and its precise facet responsible for the effect—unique opportunity; and demonstrates that this model unfolds in a pattern distinct from the oft researched model centered on consumer happiness. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Big Picture, Bad Outcomes: When Visual Perspectives Harm Health Goal Pursuit
Authors: Stornelli Jason , Pereira Beatriz , Vann Richard J.
Published: February 2019

People often fail to achieve health goals, which compromises their well‐being. Prior research suggests that seeing events through an observer's eyes (i.e., adopting a third‐person perspective) should facilitate goal pursuit. However, we find that third‐person perspectives discourage goal‐consistent intentions and behavior for health goals when goal centrality is low (i.e., the goal is peripheral to one's self‐concept). In Experiment 1, people who adopted a third‐person perspective chose more sugary foods if they considered a healthy eating goal to be more peripheral to the self. Experiment 2 examines why a third‐person perspective can hinder goal pursuit; it encourages a breakdown in implemental thinking which, in turn, increases negative self‐conscious emotions. While high goal centrality buffers people from negative effects on goal intentions, low centrality does not. Experiment 3 demonstrates that this effect is robust when goal centrality is manipulated. We recommend that consumers pursuing health goals (and individuals who support them) exercise caution when employing perspective‐based strategies, as they may backfire for people at greatest risk of goal abandonment.
Environmental sustainability assessment of the manufacturing process of a biological active pharmaceutical ingredient
Authors: Renteria Gamiz Ana Gabriela , De Soete Wouter , Heirman Bert , Dahlin Philip , De Meester Steven , Dewulf Jo
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Although the biopharmaceutical market grows rapidly, the environmental impacts of biopharmaceutical manufacturing have been hardly evaluated. The aim of the study is to comprehensively assess the environmental sustainability of a biologically‐produced active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) manufacturing process. For this purpose, an exergy analysis and an (exergetic) life cycle assessment were performed using primary (foreground system) and modeled data (background system). Infliximab, a monoclonal antibody, was considered.

RESULTS

The fermentation and its raw materials' supply chain was determined to have the highest environmental impact, since the culture media requires chemicals and complex compounds such as animal‐derived materials (ADMs). The total impact per 100 mg of API produced ranged between 18.6 and 101.8 MJex and 2.0–3.1 kg CO2‐eq, mainly as a function of the ADMs' source. A comparison of infliximab and ustekinumab, a biopharmaceutical produced without ADMs, showed that eliminating these materials can reduce the cumulative resource consumption of monoclonal antibody manufacturing by up to 7.5 times. The fermentation is the process taking the longest and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system which support fermentation areas consumes approximately 75% of all plant electricity use.

CONCLUSIONS

Culture media nutrients and cleanroom requirements are driving factors in the environmental impact of biological API manufacturing. Obtaining more precise data of the bioprocesses behind these nutrients' supply chain is crucial to corroborating this study's results. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Towards C1 chemistry: methanol vinylation by CaC2 in water in the presence of potassium or sodium carbonates
Authors: Parshina Lidiya N , Oparina Ludmila A , Gusarova Nina K , Trofimov Boris A
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Methyl vinyl ether (MVE), which polymers and copolymers are widely used in industry and medical chemistry, is produced mainly through base‐catalysed vinylation of methanol with acetylene under pressure. The most well‐known and sustainable acetylene source is calcium carbide. Significant economic benefits can be achieved by using calcium carbide as the source of acetylene directly in the industrial production of MVE.

RESULTS

Eco‐friendly and operationally simple method for vinylation of methanol, one of a major objects of C1 chemistry, using calcium carbide in water in the presence of potassium or sodium carbonates (140–150 °C, 1‐L steel rotating autoclave, maximum autogenic pressure 18–30 atm) has been developed and realized on 10‐g scale. The major co‐product of this reaction is a mixture of calcium hydroxide and calcium carbonate with minor content of potassium or sodium carbonates, which can be safely used for improving acidic soils.

CONCLUSION

Novel efficient method for vinylation of methanol with calcium carbide in water in the presence of alkali metal carbonates has been developed. The method allows avoiding acetylene gas under pressure that demands special equipment and safety measures. The major advantages of this technology are also availability and low cost of the catalysts. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
A review of nanoparticle‐enhanced membrane distillation membranes: membrane synthesis and applications in water treatment
Authors: Nthunya Lebea N , Gutierrez Leonardo , Derese Sebastiaan , Nxumalo Edward N , Verliefde Arne R , Mamba Bhekie B , Mhlanga Sabelo D
Published: February 2019

Membrane distillation (MD) is a thermally driven process that uses low‐grade energy to operate and has been extensively explored as an alternative cost‐effective and efficient water treatment process compared to conventional membrane processes. MD membranes are synthesized from hydrophobic polymers, e.g. polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or polypropylene (PP), using various methods including phase inversion and electrospinning techniques. Recent literature on MD membranes clearly shows their important role in surface water/wastewater treatment and seawater desalination. Modification of MD membranes with nanoscale materials significantly improves their performance, preventing wetting and fouling. This review presents a critical assessment of the progress on the use of nanomaterials for the modification of MD membranes. The techniques commonly used to synthesize MD membranes, the modifications that have been adopted for the incorporation of nanomaterials onto membranes, and the unique properties these nanomaterials impart on the membranes are discussed. The use of modified membranes in different MD configurations and their application in groundwater, surface water, wastewater, brackish water and seawater treatment is reviewed. Finally, cost implications, commercial viability, environmental sustainability, and future prospects of MD are also discussed to elucidate promising approaches for a future and successful implementation of MD at an industrial scale. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Hepatitis B virus surface gene mutants in immunoprophylaxis‐failed infants from Southern China
Authors: Huang Yong , Wang Bo , Peng Zhi , Tang Ni , Chen Weixian
Published: February 2019

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination was considered the most powerful tool for prevention of HBV transmission from mother to infant. In 1992, a universal HBV vaccination program for infants was launched in China. The aim of this study was to investigate the HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) variations in immunoprophylaxis‐failed infants, vaccine free infant patients and adult chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients (without nucleoside analog treatment). Immunoprophylaxis‐failed infants were recruited from two centers (Guangdong and Chongqing, representing Southern China). HBV serum markers, including HBsAg, hepatitis e antigen (HBeAg), and core antigen, were detected by the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. HBV DNA load was detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Nucleotide sequences encoding HBsAg were amplified and analyzed. Frequencies of amino acid substitutions within the second loop of “a” determinant (region with greater local hydrophilicity) in immunoprophylaxis‐failed infants were clearly higher than the unvaccinated infant patients and adult CHB patients (9.6% vs 0% vs 3.8%; χ
2 = 7.454;
P = 0.024). More than 50% (52.8%) aa substitutions in immunoprophylaxis‐failed infants were located in B cell epitopes, while 64.6% aa substitutions in adult CHB patients were located in CTL cell epitopes. HBeAg negative patients had higher substitution frequency in CTL and Th cell epitopes, and in immunoprophylaxis‐failed infant patients with substitution in major hydrophilic region region had a higher alanine aminotransferase level (68.6 ± 111.5 vs 62.1 ± 132.2;
P = 0.026), and lower DNA load (7.03 ± 1.72 vs 7.82 ± 1.73;
P < 0.001). In conclusion, our results observed vaccine‐induced immune selection pressure in vaccine failed infants, substitutions in “a” determinant, especially the G145 substitution was still the most stable and remarkable site of vaccine escape.
Change point analysis of global temperature records
Authors: Yu Michelle , Ruggieri Eric
Published: February 2019

Climate change is the result of complex interactions between a wide array of climatic variables. Over a long period of time, climatic patterns can shift, possibly multiple times. Abrupt shifts that occur over a relatively short period of time are known as change points. During these intervals, different climatic variables may undergo dramatic shifts posing serious consequences for many biological and physical systems. In this paper, we discuss a Bayesian algorithm for detecting the location of change points in time series data. In particular, we utilize our method to analyse five different global surface temperature anomaly data sets, as well as temperature records associated with land, ocean, and different zonal bands in an attempt to identify common features of these data sets. Change points in the five global records were detected between 1902–1917, 1936–1945, and 1963–1976, but do these change points also manifest themselves across other parts of the globe? Our analysis indicates that the timing of change points is consistent from one record to the next, but not all change points appear in all records. In particular, there were more change points in the ocean than on land, and also more change points in southern latitudes than in northern latitudes.
Cationic surfactant regulated synthesis of Au nanorods for sensitive detection of negatively charged colorants by surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Qin Miao , Li Pan , Zhou Xia , Zhu Jun , Wang Hongyan , Yang Liangbao
Published: February 2019

Although surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has recently emerged as a powerful analytical tool, its widespread use is hindered by several inherent problems (e.g., low reproducibility) that need to be solved before further progress is possible. Herein, we used dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB), N‐dodecyl‐N‐2‐hydroxyethyl‐N,N‐dimethylammonium bromide (C12HDAB), and N‐dodecyl‐N,N‐2‐dihydroxyethyl‐N‐methylammonium bromide (C12DHAB) as templates for the seed‐mediated growth of Au nanorods with different aspect ratios and probed the growth mechanism by a range of instrumental techniques. The prepared nanorods were used as substrates for SERS‐based detection of three negatively charged colorants (lemon yellow, orange II, and amaranth) and exhibited extraordinary SERS sensitivity for all of these targets. The highest sensitivity was observed in the case of C12DHAB‐capped nanorods, which was attributed to abundant hydrogen bonds between surfactants and targets and strong electrostatic adsorption of negatively charged colorants. Therefore, the above substrate was concluded to be well suited for real‐life applications.
Extraction of antidepressant drugs in biological samples using alkanol‐based nano structured supramolecular solvent microextraction followed by gas chromatography with mass spectrometric analysis
Authors: Salamat Qamar , Yamini Yadollah , Moradi Morteza , Farahani Abolfazl , Feizi Neda
Published: February 2019

In the present study, a supramolecular solvent was formed from reverse micelle aggregates of octanol. The proposed supramolecular solvent was used for rapid extraction of some antidepressants drugs including amitriptyline, imipramine, desipramine, maprotiline, sertraline, and doxepin from biological samples. Alkanol‐based supramolecular solvents have a unique array of physicochemical properties, making them a very attractive alternative to replace organic solvents in analytical extractions. The parameters affecting the extraction of target analytes (i.e., the volume of tetrahydrofuran and octanol as the major components comprising the supramolecular solvent, chain length of alkanols, sample solution pH, salt addition, and ultrasonic time) were investigated and optimized by factor by factor optimization method. Under the optimum conditions, preconcentration factors of 470, 490, 460, 385, 370, and 430 were obtained for amitriptyline, doxepin, imipramine, desipramine, maprotiline, and sertraline, respectively. The linear ranges and coefficients of determination (R2) were obtained in the range of 0.01–100 μg/L and 0.9974–0.9991, respectively. Also the limits of detection (S/N = 3) of 0.003–0.03 μg/L, and precisions (n = 5) of 4.9–8.9% were calculated. Finally, the method was successfully applied for the extraction of antidepressant drugs in biological samples, and relative recoveries in the range of 91–102% were obtained.
Selective reinnervation using phrenic nerve and hypoglossal nerve for bilateral vocal fold paralysis
Authors: Li Meng , Zheng Hongliang , Chen Shicai , Chen Donghui , Zhu Minhui
Published: February 2019

Objective

To evaluate the extent of airway improvement and voice quality in patients with bilateral vocal fold paralysis (BVFP) who underwent selective laryngeal reinnervation surgery.

Methods

Seven patients with BVFP caused by thyroid surgeries were enrolled. They underwent selective laryngeal reinnervation surgery. Videostroboscopy data, voice perceptual data (grade [G]), acoustic data, laryngeal electromyography data, and pulmonary function test data were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively.

Results

Videostroboscopic videos showed that six patients could achieve moderate‐to‐maximal abduction in the bilateral vocal folds during inspiration, whereas all patients achieved adduction in the bilateral vocal folds during phonation at 4 to 7 months postoperatively. G score was decreased significantly versus preoperative values (P < 0.05), and vocal functional parameters were improved significantly at 12 months postoperatively (P < 0.05). The aerodynamic parameter of maximum phonation time was significantly longer than the preoperative value (P < 0.05). Most parameters in pulmonary function test recovered to normal reference levels as early as 3 months postoperatively, whereas maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax) values were still slightly lower than normal levels 12 months after surgery. All of these parameters improved significantly versus preoperative values. Electromyographic data at 12 months postoperatively showed full interference potentials in bilateral posterior cricoarytenoid muscles during inspiration and full interference potentials in bilateral thyroarytenoid muscles during phonation in all patients. Moderate electric potentials were seen in left interarytenoid muscle in one failed patient.

Conclusion

This new selective laryngeal reinnervation procedure can achieve physiological movements of the bilateral vocal folds in selected patients with BVFP.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 129:2669–2673, 2019
Histologic effect of the potassium‐titanyl phosphorous laser on laryngeal papilloma
Authors: Eigsti Renee L. , Bayan Semirra L. , Robinson Robert A. , Hoffman Henry T.
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Tissue effects occurring with potassium‐titanyl phosphorous (KTP) laser treatment are difficult to quantify due to the multiple variables that affect not only the fluence (energy delivered) but also the laser–tissue interaction. This histopathologic analysis of recurrent respiratory papilloma (RRP) removed after treatment with KTP laser therapy permits correlation of histologic effect with method of laser treatment.

Methods

The histopathology of RRP resected specimens in a single patient was compared following treatment with KTP laser in contact and non‐contact modes as documented with intraoperative photography and video imaging.

Results

Epithelial‐sparing injury selective to the microvasculature was identified on histopathologic assessment of a specimen treated with noncontact angiolysis. Highly cauterized papillomatous epithelium without identifiable vascular structures was identified on tissue removed after treatment with the KTP laser in contact mode.

Conclusion

The histopathologic assessment of acute KTP laser effect on papilloma permits correlation between technique of application and tissue effect. Similar assessments may be helpful to modify dosimetry for individual patients requiring repeated treatment and may also assist in refining the development of existing KTP laser treatment classification systems.

Level of Evidence

4
Docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n‐3) Ameliorated the Onset and Severity of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in Mice
Authors: Adkins Yuriko , Soulika Athena M. , Mackey Bruce , Kelley Darshan S.
Published: February 2019

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurologic autoimmune disease, which is the leading cause of nontraumatic neurologic disability in young adults in United States and Europe. n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are reported to mitigate severity of this disease. Recent studies suggest that phospholipid (PL) form of dietary n‐3 PUFA may lead to their higher tissue accretion than triacylglycerol (TAG) form. We compared efficacy of PL‐docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n‐3) (DHA) and TAG‐DHA on onset and severity of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in a mouse model of MS. Female mice were fed low alpha‐linolenic acid (18:3n‐3) (ALA) diet (control) for 2 weeks and then fed either control, 0.3%, or 1.0% DHA (PL or TAG) for 4 weeks pre‐EAE induction and 4 weeks post‐EAE induction. The brain and spinal cord n‐6:n‐3 ratio was significantly lower in all mice fed DHA compared to control. EAE onset was delayed in mice fed both DHA forms and concentrations, except for 1% TAG‐DHA. The inverse association between the EAE score and the brain DHA concentration was nonsignificant at the end of the study (p = 0.08). Daily EAE scores of mice fed different DHA diets did not differ from control, however, the score of all DHA groups combined during days 9–16 was lower (p = 0.028) compared to the control. During days 17–22, the EAE score trended lower in 0.3% TAG‐DHA and during days 23–28, the EAE score trended lower in both PL‐DHA groups than those in all other groups. These findings suggest that TAG‐DHA may be more effective than PL‐DHA in the early phases of EAE, and in the final outcome, PL‐DHA may be more effective than TAG‐DHA.