bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations among human papillomavirus, inflammation, and fatigue in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Xiao Canhua , Beitler Jonathan J. , Higgins Kristin A. , Glazer Toby , Huynh Linh Kha , Paul Sudeshna , Felger Jennifer C. , Wommack Evanthia C. , Saba Nabil F. , Shin Dong M. , Bruner Deborah W. , Miller Andrew H.
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has contributed to an increased incidence of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Fatigue is a major side effect of SCCHN and its treatment. However, to the authors' knowledge, the association between HPV and fatigue has not been examined to date, nor is it known whether HPV influences biological mechanisms of fatigue, including inflammation.

METHODS

Patients with SCCHN who were without distant metastasis were assessed at baseline (pre‐radiotherapy) and 1 month and 3 months postradiotherapy. Fatigue was measured using the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory. Peripheral inflammation was assessed by plasma C‐reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1ra), soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (sTNFR2), and IL‐6. Mixed effect models were used to examine associations.

RESULTS

A total of 94 patients who were newly diagnosed were enrolled; 53% had HPV‐related tumors. Patients with HPV‐unrelated tumors had higher fatigue and higher plasma CRP, sTNFR2, and IL‐6 over time, especially at baseline and 3 months after intensity‐modulated radiotherapy compared with those with HPV‐related tumors (allP < .05). However, fatigue and plasma sTNFR2 increased more significantly from baseline to 1 month after radiotherapy in the HPV‐related group compared with the HPV‐unrelated group (bothP < .01). Controlling for significant covariates, HPV status and inflammation were found to be independent predictors of fatigue over time.

CONCLUSIONS

HPV status is an important marker of vulnerability to the behavioral and immune consequences of SCCHN and its treatment, providing support for different symptom management strategies. Special emphasis should be placed on addressing marked persistent fatigue in patients with HPV‐unrelated tumors, whereas attention should be paid to the large increases in fatigue during treatment among patients with HPV‐related tumors.Cancer2018.©2018 American Cancer Society.
Endo or Exo? Structures of Gas‐Phase Alkali Metal Cation/Aromatic Half‐Belt Complexes
Authors: Chen Yanyang , Jami‐Alahmadi Yasaman , Unikela Kiran Sagar , Bodwell Graham J. , Fridgen Travis D.
Published: May 2018

1,1,9,9‐Tetramethyl[9](2,11)teropyrenophane (TM9TP), a belt‐shaped molecule, has a sizable cavity that molecules or ions could occupy. In this study, the question of whether TM9TP forms gas‐phase ion‐molecule complexes with metal cations (K+, Rb+, Cs+) situated inside or outside the TM9TP cavity was addressed using both experimental and computational methods. Complexes were trapped in a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer and their structures were explored by some novel physical chemistry/mass spectrometry methods. Blackbody infrared radiative dissociation kinetics reveal two populations of ions, a fast dissociating fraction and a persistent fraction. Infrared multiphoton dissociation spectra (vibrational spectra) provide very strong evidence that the most abundant population is a complex where the metal cation is inside the TM9TP cavity, endo‐TM9TP. Red‐shifted C−H stretching bands present in the gas‐phase vibrational spectra of these ionic complexes show that there is an interaction between the metal cation and bridge C−H bonds due to the cation sitting inside the cavity of TM9TP. B3LYP/6‐31+G(d,p) calculations showed the endo complexes to be the lowest in energy; about 60 kJ mol−1 more thermodynamically stable and more than 120 kJ mol−1 kinetically more stable than the exo complex.
Multiple impurity seeding for power exhaust management in JT‐60SA with carbon divertor
Authors: Gałązka K. , Ivanova‐Stanik I. , Stępniewski W. , Zagórski R.
Published: May 2018

In this work the scenario #2 for the JT‐60SA with a carbon divertor configuration is analysed by using the core‐edge integrated COREDIV code. A combined seeding with two impurities, high and low atomic number, is proposed for controlling the core and the scrape‐off layer radiation and limiting the total power delivered to the divertor plate. As a proof‐of‐principle tungsten and argon seeding is investigated due to successful results reported for the same scenario with W divertor. Replacing non‐recycling W by recycling Xe shows the influence of the recycling coefficient on the final solution. Also the location of the puffing nozzle was found to be a crucial factor for the final result.
Poisson's probability‐based Q‐Routing techniques for message forwarding in opportunistic networks
Authors: Sharma Deepak Kumar , Kukreja Deepika , Aggarwal Pranav , Kaur Manpreet , Sachan Ayushee
Published: May 2018

Opportunistic Networks (OppNets) are intermittently connected infrastructure less wireless networks. There is no continuous end‐to‐end connection between the sender and the receiver, and hence nodes follow a store‐carry‐forward mechanism. The routing algorithm is required to be adaptive to the changing topology of the network. In this work, Q‐Routing technique has been used with forwarding probability and incorporated using Poisson's probability for decision making and controlling transmission energy. The algorithm refines the forwarding decision of finding the next suitable hop by exploiting the characteristics of nodes such as daily routines, mobility pattern, etc. In simulations, the performance of PBQ‐Routing is compared with Q‐Routing, Epidemic Routing, PRoPHET (Probabilistic Routing Protocol using History of Encounters and Transitivity), and HBPR (History Based Prediction Routing) for OppNets. The use of Poisson's distribution improves the effectiveness of the probabilistic forwarding decision. The findings show that the delivery probability of PBQ‐Routing almost gets doubled and overhead ratio reduces to half in comparison with that of Q‐Routing when used in OppNets. PBQ‐Routing outperforms other Q‐Routing based algorithms over Poisson's distribution. As there is less replication in case of PBQ‐Routing, it also saves the transmission energy.
Innovation in eating disorders research and practice: Expanding our community and perspectives at the 2018 International Conference on Eating Disorders: Editorial to accompany IJED Virtual Issue in honor of the 2018 International Conference on Eating Disorders.
Authors: Diedrichs Phillippa C. , von Ranson Kristin M. , Thomas Jennifer J.
Published: May 2018

Objective

This virtual issue of the International Journal of Eating Disorders (IJED) highlights the excellent and innovative research and practice discussed at the 2018 International Conference on Eating Disorders held in Chicago, Illinois, USA.

Method and Results

The virtual issue contains a series of articles recently published in IJED, which we have curated to reflect and expand on the insights delivered during the conference keynote and plenary presentations.

Discussion

In line with the conference theme of Innovation in Research and Practice: Expanding our Community and Perspectives, we hope this collection of articles will spark new ideas for research, practice, and collaboration to accelerate knowledge on eating disorder risk factors and recovery, and the reach and impact of evidence‐based treatment, prevention, and policy efforts.
Expeditious Synthesis of Ieodoglucomides A and B from the Marine‐Derived Bacterium Bacillus licheniformis
Authors: Podilapu Ananda Rao , Emmadi Madhu , Kulkarni Suvarn S.
Published: May 2018

We report the total synthesis of ieodoglucomides A and B. The key steps of the synthesis are a glycosyl‐iodide‐mediated β‐stereoselective glycosylation without neighbouring‐group participation, a regioselective acylation, and a Grubbs cross‐metathesis reaction. The short and efficient synthesis involves 11 steps, with 38–40 % overall yield.
Synthesis of C9,C10‐Diheteroarylated Phenanthrenes via Palladium‐Catalyzed C–H Bond Activation
Authors: Bouzayani Bilel , Ben Salem Ridha , Soulé Jean‐François , Doucet Henri
Published: May 2018

The reactivity of positions C9 and C10 of 9‐ or 10‐bromophenanthrenes in palladium‐catalyzed direct heteroarylations was investigated. A wide variety of heteroarenes such as thiazoles, (benzo)thiophenes, (benzo)furans, pyrroles, selenophenes or imidazopyridazines was successfully introduced at phenanthrene C9‐position via palladium‐catalyzed direct arylations, using 0.5–0.1 mol‐% of phosphine‐free Pd(OAc)2 catalyst. Then, C10‐bromination of the 9‐heteroarylated phenanthrenes, followed by a second palladium‐catalyzed direct heteroarylation gives access to symmetrical and non‐symmetrical 9,10‐di(heteroaryl)phenanthrenes.
Simultaneous Electrochemical Determination of Hydroquinone and Bisphenol A using a Carbon Paste Electrode Modified with Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Ianesko Felipe , Alves de Lima Camila , Antoniazzi Cristiane , Santana Edson Roberto , Piovesan Jamille Valéria , Spinelli Almir , Galli Andressa , Guimarães de Castro Eryza
Published: May 2018

In this paper, a rapid and sensitive modified electrode for the simultaneous determination of hydroquinone (HQ) and bisphenol A (BPA) is proposed. The simultaneous determination of these two compounds is extremely important since they can coexist in the same sample and are very harmful to plants, animals and the environment in general. A carbon paste electrode (CPE) was modified with silver nanoparticles (nAg) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). The PVP was used as a reducing and stabilizing agent of nAg from silver nitrate in aqueous media. The nAg‐PVP composite obtained was characterized by transmission electron microscopy and UV‐vis spectroscopy. The electrochemical behavior of HQ and BPA at the nAg‐PVP/CPE was investigated in 0.1 mol L−1 B−R buffer (pH 6.0) using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and square wave voltammetry (SWV). The results indicate that the electrochemical responses are improved significantly with the use of the modified electrode. The calibration curves obtained by SWV, under the optimized conditions, showed linear ranges of 0.09–2.00 μmol L−1 for HQ (limit of detection 0.088 μmol L−1) and 0.04–1.00 μmol L−1 for BPA (limit of detection 0.025 μmol L−1). The modified electrode was successfully applied in the analysis of water samples and the results were comparable to those obtained using UV‐vis spectroscopy.
Powder Conductivity Assessment Using a Disposable 3D Printed Device
Authors: Fraser Alison , Zhang Zishuai , Merle Geraldine , Gostick Jeff , Barralet Jake
Published: May 2018

This work describes a low‐cost 3D printed apparatus developed for powder electrical conductivity measurement with electrodes fitted in either a two‐probe or four probe van der Pauw configurations. Electrical conductivity was then measured as a function of density by compressing the powders in an Instron mechanical test machine. Highly conductive carbon black, lower conductive Fe3O4 and titania carbon nanotube composites were further tested under both methodologies to assess their reliability. Small powder masses are required for each measurement and our data matched well with literature values. It appeared that 3D printed polymer dies could be used to measure powder conductivity, though loss of material on the die walls was a source of error especially for small powder volumes.
Effect of pH on the Reduction of Graphene Oxide on its Structure and Oxygen Reduction Capabilities in the Alkaline Media
Authors: Glass Dean E. , Surya Prakash G. K.
Published: May 2018

The reduction of many catalysts in aqueous media is usually carried out in a basic environment using most reducing agents. Graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized and reduced by sodium borohydride in an aqueous solution over a wide spectrum of pH values ranging from 1 to 13. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the reduction of the graphene oxide at each respective pH value. Raman and X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectra displayed an increased repair in the graphitic sp2 domain of the catalysts as the pH value of the solution was increased. Half‐cell electrochemical testing in basic media showed higher oxygen reduction capabilities in the catalysts that were reduced at higher pH values. The onset potential of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) also increased as the pH of the solution increased overall due to the increased repair in the graphitic domain of the catalysts reduced at higher pH values.
Basic studies in biaxial tensile tests
Authors: Hartmann Stefan , Gilbert Rose Rogin , Sguazzo Carmen
Published: May 2018

Biaxial tensile experiments are an increasing test alternative of thin‐walled specimens to characterize the material behavior under mechanical agencies. This is mainly driven by digital image correlation systems to obtain information about the surface deformation. However, it is not as simple as a tensile test since we can only measure the deformation in a region on the specimen and not the stress state. The latter aspect of stress determination is discussed as well. In this article, we address several basic questions. First: can we obtain a homogenous strain state in cruciform‐like specimens? In this sense the shape will be discussed and a measure of homogeneity is introduced for proofing whether homogeneity can be guaranteed. Second: how can we reach large strains in the center of the specimens? This is connected to the specimen's geometry (arm reinforcement, slots, thinning of center, …). Furthermore, we discuss the problem of material parameter identification using biaxial tensile test information, which is connected to the concept of identifiability using finite elements. This is discussed at the simplest constitutive model, namely linear isotropic elasticity. Thus, the overall goal is connected to a critical review on biaxial experiments using cruciform specimens. The test materials are polymers.
The characteristics, origin, and significance of mafic microgranular enclaves in the granitoids from the Bailingshan complex, Eastern Tianshan, NW China
Authors: Chen Shu'e , Fan Shuanghu , Yang Liuchen , Zhang Yibin , Zhang Li , Liu Lei , Zhang Tianyu
Published: May 2018

The Bailingshan complex is located to the south of the Jueluotage tectonic belt of Eastern Tianshan, consisting of quartz monzodiorite, granodiorite, monzogranite, and granite. Mafic microgranular enclaves (MME) are commonly found in granodiorites and monzogranites and have sharp contacts with the host rocks. Sometimes, the fine veins of the host rocks cut through the enclaves. The MMEs are mainly fine‐grained dioritic rocks, including diorite and pyroxene diorite with igneous textures, and having condensing edges with rich fine dark minerals. Among the enclaves, the orthoclase xenocryst with hornblende aggregation rim at its edge, acicular apatites in plagioclase, sometimes late‐crystallized biotites between the oscillatory zonings of plagioclase, and hornblende metasomatic rims occur around the pyroxene phenocrysts can be observed. Both the host rocks and the enclaves are metaluminous and calc‐alkaline to high‐K calc‐alkaline rocks. The enclaves have lower SiO2 and higher Al2O3, FeOT, MgO, CaO, and TiO2 concentrations, as well as higher amounts of the trace elements Cr, Sc, and Th than the host rocks. The host rocks and the enclaves exhibit similar rare earth elements patterns and linear relation of oxides. The sulphur isotopes (δ34S(V‐CDT) = −1.7‰ to +0.7‰) from the iron ores in the Bailingshan area indicate that the mineralization materials originated from the upper mantle. All of these lithology and geochemistry characteristics demonstrate that the enclaves were formed by the mixture of mantle‐derived mafic magma and crust‐derived felsic magma. The iron ore mineralization in the Bailingshan area may be associated with the magma mixing.
B Cell‐Mediated Maintenance of Cluster of Differentiation 169–Positive Cells Is Critical for Liver Regeneration
Authors: Behnke Kristina , Zhuang Yuan , Xu Haifeng C. , Sundaram Balamurugan , Reich Maria , Shinde Prashant V. , Huang Jun , Modares Nastaran Fazel , Tumanov Alexei V. , Polz Robin , Scheller Jürgen , Ware Carl F. , Pfeffer Klaus , Keitel Verena , Häussinger Dieter , Pandyra Aleksandra A. , Lang Karl S. , Lang Philipp A.
Published: May 2018

The liver has an extraordinary capacity to regenerate through activation of key molecular pathways. However, central regulators controlling liver regeneration remain insufficiently studied. Here, we show that B cell–deficient animals failed to induce sufficient liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy (PHx). Consistently, adoptive transfer of B cells could rescue defective liver regeneration. B cell–mediated lymphotoxin beta production promoted recovery from PHx. Absence of B cells coincided with loss of splenic cluster of differentiation 169–positive (CD169+) macrophages. Moreover, depletion of CD169+ cells resulted in defective liver regeneration and decreased survival, which was associated with reduced hepatocyte proliferation. Mechanistically, CD169+ cells contributed to liver regeneration by inducing hepatic interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) production and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 activation. Accordingly, treatment of CD169+ cell–depleted animals with IL‐6/IL‐6 receptor rescued liver regeneration and severe pathology following PHx. Conclusion: We identified CD169+ cells to be a central trigger for liver regeneration, by inducing key signaling pathways important for liver regeneration.
Using stable isotopes to estimate travel times in a data‐sparse Arctic catchment: Challenges and possible solutions
Authors: Tetzlaff Doerthe , Piovano Thea , Ala‐Aho Pertti , Smith Aaron , Carey Sean K. , Marsh Philip , Wookey Philip A. , Street Lorna E. , Soulsby Chris
Published: May 2018

Use of isotopes to quantify the temporal dynamics of the transformation of precipitation into run‐off has revealed fundamental new insights into catchment flow paths and mixing processes that influence biogeochemical transport. However, catchments underlain by permafrost have received little attention in isotope‐based studies, despite their global importance in terms of rapid environmental change. These high‐latitude regions offer limited access for data collection during critical periods (e.g., early phases of snowmelt). Additionally, spatio‐temporal variable freeze–thaw cycles, together with the development of an active layer, have a time variant influence on catchment hydrology. All of these characteristics make the application of traditional transit time estimation approaches challenging. We describe an isotope‐based study undertaken to provide a preliminary assessment of travel times at Siksik Creek in the western Canadian Arctic. We adopted a model–data fusion approach to estimate the volumes and isotopic characteristics of snowpack and meltwater. Using samples collected in the spring/summer, we characterize the isotopic composition of summer rainfall, melt from snow, soil water, and stream water. In addition, soil moisture dynamics and the temporal evolution of the active layer profile were monitored. First approximations of transit times were estimated for soil and streamwater compositions using lumped convolution integral models and temporally variable inputs including snowmelt, ice thaw, and summer rainfall. Comparing transit time estimates using a variety of inputs revealed that transit time was best estimated using all available inflows (i.e., snowmelt, soil ice thaw, and rainfall). Early spring transit times were short, dominated by snowmelt and soil ice thaw and limited catchment storage when soils are predominantly frozen. However, significant and increasing mixing with water in the active layer during the summer resulted in more damped steam water variation and longer mean travel times (~1.5 years). The study has also highlighted key data needs to better constrain travel time estimates in permafrost catchments.
Assessing baseflow index vulnerability to variation in dry spell length for a range of catchment and climate properties
Authors: Longobardi Antonia , Van Loon Anne Frederike
Published: May 2018

Baseflow index (BFI) prediction in ungauged basins has largely been based on the use of catchment physiographic attributes as dominant variables. In a context where changes in climate are increasingly evident, it is also important to study how the slow component of flow is potentially affected by climate. The aim of this study was to illustrate the impact of climate variability on the baseflow process based on analysis of daily rainfall characteristics and hydrological modelling simulation exercises validated with observed data. Ten catchments were analysed that span southern to northern Europe and range from arid Mediterranean to maritime temperate climate conditions. Additionally, more than 2,000 virtual catchments were modelled that cover an extended gradient of physiographic and climate properties. The relative amounts of baseflow were summarized by the BFI. The catchment slow response delay time (Ks) was assumed to be a measure of catchment effects, and the impact of climate properties was investigated with the dry spell length (d). Well‐drained and poorly‐drained groups were identified based on Ks and d, and their response to an increase or decrease in dry spell length was analysed. Overall, for either well‐ or poorly‐drained groups, an extension in dry spell length appeared to have minor effects on the baseflow compared with a decrease in dry spell length. Under the same dry spell variation, the BFI vulnerability appeared higher for catchments characterized by large initial d values in combination with poorly‐drained systems, but attributing an equal weight to the variations in d both in the case of dry and wet initial conditions, it is in the end concluded that the BFI vulnerability appears higher for systems laying in the transition zone between well‐ and poorly‐drained systems.
Risk factors for self‐reported postpartum hemorrhage in Ga East, Ghana
Authors: Valdes Viviane , Adongo Philip B. , Nwameme Adanna U. , Tabong Philip T.N. , Fernandes Michelle
Published: May 2018

Objective

To document the prevalence of self‐reported postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) in Ga East, Accra, Ghana, and examine the demographic, biological, and social risk factors for PPH.

Methods

The present study was a cross‐sectional secondary analysis of data collected during 2010–2012 from the Ghana Essential Health Interventions Program, a quasi‐experimental interventional study surveying households in the urban Ga East Municipal District. The analysis included data from randomly selected parous women of childbearing age (15–49 years), excluding those with a history of abortion (spontaneous or induced) or stillbirth. The χ2 test and logistic regression were used to identify significant risk factors for self‐reported PPH.

Results

The current analysis included 2136 women. Self‐reported PPH was recorded for 95 (4.4%) participants. The maternal age at delivery, the duration of labor, and the number of skilled delivery providers were significantly associated with self‐reported PPH. Prolonged labor (odds ratio 3.70, 95% confidence interval 2.27–5.94; P<0.001) and maternal age (odds ratio 0.96, 95% confidence interval 0.94–0.99; P=0.020) were predictors of self‐reported PPH.

Conclusion

Prolonged labor and younger maternal age were related to a higher burden of reported PPH. These findings were congruent with global and regional data on the prevalence and risk factors for objectively measured PPH and could help focus intervention strategies to high‐risk groups, particularly in resource‐limited settings.
CONTEXTUAL ISSUES FOR IMPLEMENTATION AND EVALUATION OF HOME‐VISITATION PROGRAMS FOR AMERICAN INDIAN AND ALASKA NATIVE COMMUNITIES: AN INTRODUCTION TO THE TRIBAL MATERNAL, INFANT, AND EARLY CHILDHOOD HOME VISITING PROGRAM
Authors: Novins Douglas , Meyer Aleta , Beltangady Moushumi
Published: May 2018

Home‐visiting programs have become a key component of evidence‐based services for pregnant women, new mothers, their infants, and their families. When Congress authorized the Maternal Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program (MIECHV) in 2010, it set aside 3% of the $1.5 billion in funding to support home‐visiting programs operated by tribes, Tribal MIECHV programs have been funded in 14 states and have served over 3,100 families, providing nearly 55,000 home visits to families at risk for poor child, maternal, and family outcomes. In this Introduction to the Special Issue of the Infant Mental Health Journal on the Tribal MIECHV initiative, we provide some key contexts of the work of the Tribal MIECHV grantees as well as an overview of the issues covered in the other articles.
Long noncoding RNA MALAT1 promotes osterix expression to regulate osteogenic differentiation by targeting miRNA‐143 in human bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Gao Yuan , Xiao Fei , Wang Chenglong , Wang Chuandong , Cui Penglei , Zhang Xiaoling , Chen Xiaodong
Published: May 2018

Osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) is essential for the human bone formation, and emerging evidence shows that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in hBMSC osteogenic differentiation. MALAT1 is often regarded as a tumor‐related lncRNA, but its function in mesenchymal stem cell differentiation remains to be defined. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether MALAT1 regulates Osterix (Osx) expression by sponging miR‐143 to promote hBMSC osteogenic differentiation. Firstly, we found that the expression of MALAT1 was much lower in hBMSCs from osteoporosis patients and miR‐143 was contrarily higher. In addition, MALAT1 expression increased, and miR‐143 decreased when hBMSCs were treated with osteogenic induction. Then, we used short hairpin RNAs to knockdown MALAT1, and the results showed that hBMSC osteogenic differentiation decreased significantly, indicating that MALAT1 is a positive regulator of osteogenic differentiation in hBMSCs. Furthermore, by luciferase assays, we found that MALAT1 could directly bind to miR‐143 and negatively regulate its expression. Similarly, miR‐143 could directly bind to the target site on the Osx 3′‐UTR and then inhibit Osx expression. Knockdown of MALAT1 decreased Osx expression, and co‐transfection of miR‐143 inhibitor could rescue Osx mRNA expression. While Osx expression was increased in MALAT1‐overexpressing hBMSCs, it was reversed by the miR‐143 mimics. Moreover, Osx silencing decreased ALP, OCN, and OPN mRNA expression induced by the miR‐143 inhibitor. Altogether, our findings suggest that MALAT1 acts to regulate Osx expression through targeting miR‐143; thus, it is considered as a positive regulator in hBMSC osteogenic differentiation.
Anionic nanoliposomes reduced atherosclerosis progression in Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor (LDLR) deficient mice fed a high fat diet
Authors: Krishna Smriti M. , Moxon Joseph V. , Jose Roby J. , Li Jiaze , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Jaafari Mahmoud R. , Hatamipour Mahdi , Liu Dawie , Golledge Jonathan
Published: May 2018

Atherosclerosis is a systemic disease characterized by the deposition of cholesterol and inflammatory cells within the arterial wall. Removal of cholesterol from the vessel wall may have an impact on the size and composition of atherosclerotic lesions. Anionic phospholipids or liposome vesicles composed of a lipid bilayer such as nanoliposomes have been suggested as treatments for dyslipidemia. In this study, we investigated the effect of anionic nanoliposomes on atherosclerosis in a mouse model. Low‐density lipoprotein receptor knockout mice (Ldlr–/–) were fed with an atherosclerosis promoting high fat and cholesterol (HFC) diet for 12 weeks. Anionic nanoliposomes including hydrogenated soy phosphatidylcholine (HSPC) and distearoyl phosphatidylglycerol (DSPG) (molar ratio: 1:3) were injected intravenously into HFC‐fed Ldlr−/− mice once a week for 4 weeks. Mice receiving nanoliposomes had significantly reduced atherosclerosis within the aortic arch as assessed by Sudan IV staining area (p = 0.007), and reduced intima/media ratio (p = 0.030) and greater collagen deposition within atherosclerosis plaques within the brachiocephalic artery (p = 0.007), compared to control mice. Administration of nanoliposomes enhanced markers of reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) and increased markers of plaque stability in HFC‐fed Ldlr−/− mice. Reduced cholesterol accumulation was observed in the liver along with the up‐regulation of the major genes involved in the efflux of cholesterol such as hepatic ATP‐binding cassette transporters (ABC) including Abc‐a1, Abc‐g1, Abc‐g5, and Abc‐g8, Scavenger receptor class B, member 1 (Scarb1), and Liver X receptor alpha (Lxr)‐α. Lecithin Cholesterol Acyltransferase activity within the plasma was also increased in mice receiving nanoliposomes. Anionic nanoliposome administration reduced atherosclerosis in HFC‐fed Ldlr−/− mice by promoting RCT and upregulating the ABC‐A1/ABC‐G1 pathway.
Anti‐tumoral effects of low molecular weight heparins: A focus on the treatment of esophageal cancer
Authors: Javadinia Seyed Alireza , Gholami Arezoo , Joudi Mashhad Mona , Ferns Gordon A. , Shahidsales Soodabeh , Avan Amir , Kermani Ali Taghizadeh
Published: May 2018

Esophageal cancer is one of the most prevalent types of cancer globally. With current treatment options, the survival is poor, and there are ongoing efforts to find new and more efficient therapeutic approaches. There are several reports on the anti‐tumoral effects of low‐molecular‐weight heparins (LMWH). We have assessed the possible survival benefits and underlying mechanisms of LMWHs in malignancies with a focus on esophageal cancer. We conclude that the effects of LMWHs on survival of cancer patients is probably due to a combination of direct anti‐tumoral, anti‐angiogenic, and immunomodulatory effects and indirect effects on the coagulation system.
Magnetotherapy: The quest for tendon regeneration
Authors: Pesqueira Tamagno , Costa‐Almeida Raquel , Gomes Manuela E.
Published: May 2018

Tendons are mechanosensitive tissues that connect and transmit the forces generated by muscles to bones by allowing the conversion of mechanical input into biochemical signals. These physical forces perform the fundamental work of preserving tendon homeostasis assuring body movements. However, overloading causes tissue injuries, which leads us to the field of tendon regeneration. Recently published reviews have broadly shown the use of biomaterials and different strategies to attain tendon regeneration. In this review, our focus is the use of magnetic fields as an alternative therapy, which has demonstrated clinical relevance in tendon medicine because of their ability to modulate cell fate. Yet the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms still need to be elucidated. While providing a brief outlook about specific signalling pathways and intracellular messengers as framework in play by tendon cells, application of magnetic fields as a subcategory of physical forces is explored, opening up a compelling avenue to enhance tendon regeneration. We outline here useful insights on the effects of magnetic fields both at in vitro and in vivo levels, particularly on the expression of tendon genes and inflammatory cytokines, ultimately involved in tendon regeneration. Subsequently, the potential of using magnetically responsive biomaterials in tendon tissue engineering is highlighted and future directions in magnetotherapy are discussed.
Increased fetal epicardial fat thickness: A novel ultrasound marker for altered fetal metabolism in diabetic pregnancies
Authors: Akkurt Mehmet O. , Turan Ozhan M. , Crimmins Sarah , Harman Christopher R. , Turan Sifa
Published: May 2018

Objective

To evaluate whether fetal epicardial fat thickness (EFT) differs in diabetic and nondiabetic pregnant women.

Methods

Retrospective case‐control study of pregnancies between 24 and 36 weeks complicated by preexisting (PDM) or gestational (GDM) diabetes mellitus, matched one to one with controls for body mass index and gestational age (GA). Epicardial fat was identified as the hypoechogenic area between myocardium and visceral pericardium over the right ventricle and its thickness was measured by a single observer blinded to clinical condition and outcomes. A linear regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between GA and EFT, and regression lines were compared between diabetics and controls.

Results

53 PDM and 53 GDM pregnant women were matched with controls. With the exception of maternal age, the demographics were similar among groups. EFT increased significantly with advancing gestation in both diabetics and controls (P < 0.0001) and was significantly greater in diabetics than in controls (P < 0.0001). The best fit lines were different between diabetics (EFT = 0.05 × GA + 0.07 mm; R2 = 0.70) and controls (EFT = 0.07 × GA + 0.04 mm; R2 = 0.93) (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Fetal EFT was greater in diabetics than in nondiabetics, and even greater in pregestational diabetics. EFT maybe an additional and/or earlier marker to identify early changes in fetal metabolism before accelerated fetal growth and polyhydramnios is apparent.
Can point shear wave elastography differentiate focal nodular hyperplasia from hepatocellular adenoma
Authors: Taimr Pavel , Klompenhouwer Anne Julia , Thomeer Maarten G. J. , Hansen Bettina E. , Ijzermans Jan N. M. , de Man Robert A. , de Knegt Robert J.
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) and hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) are liver tumors that require different management. We assessed the potential of point shear wave elastography (pSWE) to differentiate FNH from HCA and the interobserver and intraobserver reliability of pSWE in the examination of these lesions and of native liver tissue (NLT).

Methods

The study included 88 patients (65 FNH, 23 HCA). pSWE was performed by two experienced liver sonographers (observers 1 [O1] and 2 [O2]) and acquired within the lesion of interest and NLT. Group differences, optimal cutoff for characterization and interobserver reliability was assessed with Mann‐Whitney‐U, area under the ROC curce (AUROC) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Intraobserver reliability in NLT was assessed in 20 healthy subjects using ICC.

Results

Median stiffness was significantly higher in FNH than in HCA (7.01 kPa vs 4.98 kPa for O1 (P = 0.017) and 7.68 kPa vs 6.00 kPa for O2 (P = 0.031)). A cutoff point for differentiation between the two entities could not be determined with an AUROC of 0.67 (O1) and 0.69 (O2). Interobserver reliability was good for lesion‐ stiffness (ICC = 0.86) and poor for NLT stiffness (ICC = 0.09). In healthy subjects, intraobserver reliability for NLT‐stiffness was poor for O1 (ICC = 0.23) and moderate for O2 (ICC = 0.62).

Conclusion

This study shows that pSWE cannot reliably differentiate FNH from HCA. Interobserver and intraobserver reliability for pSWE in NLT were insufficient. Interpretation of results gained with this method should be done with great caution.
Do emergency physicians rely on point‐of‐care ultrasound for clinical decision making without additional confirmatory testing?
Authors: Moussa Mohamad , Stausmire Julie M.
Published: May 2018

Purpose

It is unknown if Emergency Physicians (EPs) rely solely on Emergency Medicine performed Point‐Of‐Care Ultrasound (EM‐POCUS) for clinical decision making or if they proceed to subsequent “gold standard” studies for confirmatory diagnosis.

Methods

After Institutional Review Board approval, an online survey was distributed by the Ohio Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians to its members.

Results

The most common EM‐POCUS procedures used without confirmatory testing were: determination of cardiac activity during cardiac arrest (81.3%), differentiating cellulitis from abscess (63.2%), central venous catheter placement confirmation (43.2%), pericardial effusion evaluation (41.9%) and focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST—37.4%). The responses regarding remaining procedures suggest most physicians do not use EM‐POCUS or verify EM‐POCUS findings with additional testing. One hundred fifty‐five survey responses provided a confidence interval of >90%. Two‐thirds (67.7%) of respondents were board‐certified EPs with 43.8% in practice for less than 5 years. EM‐POCUS examinations were performed at least weekly by 37.4% of respondents; 28.4% performed at least 1 EM‐POCUS examination per shift. Nearly half (47.7%) responded they had no concerns regarding use of EM‐POCUS.

Conclusions

This study describes the results of a survey on the use of EM‐POCUS for clinical decision making by Ohio EPs. A majority of them continues to rely on gold standard testing for confirmatory diagnosis, in addition to EM‐POCUS.
Atomic force microscopy study of red blood cell membrane nanostructure during oxidation‐reduction processes
Authors: Kozlova E. , Chernysh A. , Sergunova V. , Gudkova O. , Manchenko E. , Kozlov A.
Published: May 2018

The morphology and functional state of red blood cells (RBCs) mainly depends on the configuration of the spectrin network, which can be broken under the influence of intoxication because of oxidation processes in the cells. Measurement of these processes is a complex problem. The most suitable and prospective method that resolves this problem is atomic force microscopy (AFM). We used AFM to study the changes in the spectrin matrix and RBC morphology during oxidation processes caused by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation in RBC suspension. The number of discocytes decreased from 98% (in control) to 12%. We obtained AFM images of the spectrin matrix in RBC ghosts. Atomic force microscopy allows for the direct observation and quantitative measurement of the disturbances in the structure of the spectrin matrix during oxidation processes in RBCs. The typical section size of the spectrin network changed from approximately 80 to 200 nm (in control) to 600 nm and even to 1000 nm after UV irradiation. An AFM study showed that incubation of RBCs with Cytoflavin® after UV irradiation preserved the forms of RBCs almost at control levels; 89% of the cells remained as discocytes. To quantify the intensity of the oxidation‐reduction processes, the percentage of haemoglobin derivatives was measured. The content of methaemoglobin varied in the range of 1% to 70% during the experiments. These evidence‐based studies are important for the fundamental research of interactions during redox processes in RBCs at the molecular level.
Discovery of potent polyphosphate kinase 1 (PPK1) inhibitors using structure‐based exploration of PPK1Pharmacophoric space coupled with docking analyses
Authors: Bashatwah Rasha M. , Khanfar Mohammad A. , Bardaweel Sanaa K.
Published: May 2018

Inorganic polyphosphate (polyP) is present in all living forms of life. Studied mainly in prokaryotes, polyP and its associated enzymes are vital in diverse metabolic activities, in some structural functions, and most importantly in stress responses. Bacterial species, including many pathogens, encode a homolog of a major polyP synthesis enzyme, Poly Phosphate Kinase (PPK) with 2 different genes coding for PPK1 and PPK2. Genetic deletion of the ppk1 gene leads to reduced polyP levels and the consequent loss of virulence and stress adaptation responses. This far, no PPK1 homolog has been identified in higher‐order eukaryotes, and, therefore, PPK1 represents a novel target for chemotherapy. The aim of the current study is to investigate PPK1 from Escherichia coli with comprehensive understanding of the enzyme's structure and binding sites, which were used to design pharmacophores and screen a library of compounds for potential discovery of selective PPK1 inhibitors. Verification of the resultant inhibitors activities was conducted using a combination of mutagenic and chemical biological approaches. The metabolic phenotypic maps of the wild type E. coli (WT) and ppk1 knockout mutant were generated and compared with the metabolic map of the chemically inhibited WT. In addition, biofilm formation ability was measured in WT, ppk1 knockout mutant, and the chemically inhibited WT. The results demonstrated that chemical inhibition of PPK1, with the designed inhibitors, was equivalent to gene deletion in altering specific metabolic pathways, changing the metabolic fingerprint, and suppressing the ability of E. coli to form a biofilm.
Corporate social responsibility and employee engagement: The moderating role of CSR‐specific relative autonomy and individualism
Authors: Rupp Deborah E. , Shao Ruodan , Skarlicki Daniel P. , Paddock Elizabeth Layne , Kim Tae‐Yeol , Nadisic Thierry
Published: May 2018

Growing evidence suggests that employees' perceptions of their employer's corporate social responsibility (CSR) relate positively to employee work engagement. This is an important connection given the impact of work engagement on both employee health and organizational productivity, as well as the importance of CSR for society. In this paper, however, we argue that the CSR perceptions–work engagement relationship cannot be assumed to be universal and that both individual and contextual factors will place meaningful boundary conditions on this effect. Integrating motivation and cross‐cultural theories, we propose that the relationship between employees' CSR perceptions and their work engagement will be stronger among employees who perceive higher CSR‐specific relative autonomy (i.e., employees' contextualized motivation for complying with, advocating for, and/or participating in CSR activities) and that this amplification effect will be stronger among employees who are higher on individualism (studied at the individual‐level of analysis). These predictions were mostly supported among a sample of 673 working adults from five different regions (Canada, China [mainland], France, Hong Kong, and Singapore) and while controlling for first‐party justice perceptions, moral identity, employee demographics, and employer/nation characteristics. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
The effect of toothbrushing and flossing sequence on interdental plaque reduction and fluoride retention: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Mazhari Fatemeh , Boskabady Marzie , Moeintaghavi Amir , Habibi Atieh
Published: May 2018

Background

Mechanical plaque control methods such as brushing and flossing are highly recommended to remove dental plaque. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of the sequence of brushing and flossing on reducing interdental plaque and increasing fluoride retention in that area.

Methods

This randomized controlled crossover trial was conducted on 25 dental students. After prophylaxis, they were asked to discontinue all forms of oral hygiene for 48 hours. The study was performed in two phases with two‐week washout intervals. In one phase, they first brushed, then flossed (sequence 1: brush‐floss group). In the other phase they initially used dental floss then brushed (sequence 2: floss‐brush group). At each phase, dental plaque (using the Rustogi Modified Navy Plaque Index) and fluoride concentrations (using a fluoride ion specific electrode) were measured before and after flossing and brushing, and the dental plaque reduction and fluoride increase were compared between the two groups using the mixed model test. A significance level of 5% was selected.

Results

In the floss‐brush group interdental and whole plaque was reduced significantly more than the brush‐floss group (p = 0.001, p = 0.009 respectively). However, marginal plaque did not show any statistically significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.2). Fluoride concentrations in interdental plaque were significantly higher in the floss‐brush group than the other group (p = 0.027).

Conclusion

The results showed that flossing followed by brushing is preferred to brushing then flossing in order to reduce interdental plaque and increase fluoride concentration in interdental plaque.
Capillary electrophoresis, a method for the determination of nucleic acid ligands covalently attached to quantum dots representing a donor of Förster resonance energy transfer
Authors: Datinská Vladimíra , Klepárník Karel , Belšánová Barbora , Minárik Marek , Foret František
Published: May 2018

The synthesis and determination of the structure of a Förster resonance energy transfer probe intended for the detection of specific nucleic acid sequences are described here. The probe is based on the hybridization of oligonucleotide modified quantum dots with a fluorescently labeled nucleic acid sample resulting in changes of the fluorescence emission due to the energy transfer effect. The stoichiometry distribution of oligonucleotides conjugated to quantum dots was determined by capillary electrophoresis separation. The results indicate that one to four molecules of oligonucleotide are conjugated to the surface of a single nanoparticle. This conclusion is confirmed by the course of the dependence of Förster resonance energy transfer efficiency on the concentration of fluorescently labeled complementary single‐stranded nucleic acid, showing saturation. While the energy transfer efficiency of the probe hybridized with complementary nucleic acid strands was 30%, negligible efficiency was observed with a noncomplementary strand.
Alpha‐Linolenic Acid, but Not Palmitic Acid, Negatively Impacts Survival, Asexual Reproductive Rate, and Clonal Offspring Size in Hydra oligactis
Authors: Kaliszewicz Anita , Jarząbek Karolina , Szymańska Justyna , Karaban Kamil , Sierakowski Maciej
Published: May 2018

Hydra, as sit‐and‐wait predators with limited food selectivity, could serve as model organisms for the analysis of the effect of a particular dietary component on growth and reproduction. We investigated the effect of food quality and of diets enriched with palmitic (PAM) or α‐linolenic acid (ALA) on the life history traits of two hydra species: Hydra oligactis and Hydra vulgaris. We tested the hypothesis that a diet enriched with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) can stimulate growth and reproduction in simple metazoans with a sit‐and‐wait type of predatory strategy. Our results revealed that a diet based on Artemia nauplii, which are not a natural food for freshwater hydra, stimulated growth, asexual reproduction, and survival in hydra. Artemia nauplii were characterized by the highest lipid content of all used food sources. The analysis of the fatty acid content of hydra indicated the domination the n‐6 fatty acids over n‐3 (eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA], docosahexaenoic acid [DHA], and ALA). Arachidonic acid appeared to be the dominant PUFA in Hydra, irrespective of diet supplementation with palmitic acid or ALA. The dietary supplementation of ALA negatively affected the survival, asexual reproductive rate, and size of clonal offspring of H. oligactis and had no effect on the life history traits of H. vulgaris. Our results also suggest that the hydras are not able to efficiently convert ALA into other essential fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA. To our knowledge, this is the first report about the adverse effects of n‐3 fatty acid supplementation in primitive metazoans such as hydra.