bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Oryctolagus cuniculus (rabbit) rennet on the texture, rheology, and sensory properties of white cheese
Authors: Alihanoğlu Selin , Ektiren Demet , Akbulut Çakır Çağım , Vardin Hasan , Karaaslan Asliye , Karaaslan Mehmet
Published: April 2018

Calf rennet has long been used in cheese‐making. Because of calf rennet shortage and high cost, novel proteases were needed to meet industry's increasing enzyme demand. Recombinant chymosins and camel chymosin were started to be used in the industry. There is no study in the literature subjecting use of rabbit rennet in cheese production. Chemical, rheological, and sensorial characteristics of white cheese made with rabbit rennet were investigated in this study. Quality characteristics of rabbit rennet cheese (RC) were compared to cheeses produced with commercial calf (CC) and camel chymosins (CLC). RC and CLC exhibited higher hardness and dynamic moduli values throughout the storage as compared to CC. Although moisture levels of cheese samples were similar at day 60, CC had much lower hardness and dynamic moduli values than CLC and RC. While the appearance and structure were better for CLC, the highest odor and taste scores were obtained by RC during 60 days of storage. The results of this investigation proposed that rabbit rennet could be a suitable milk coagulant for white cheese production. Our results showed that rabbit rennet has comparable cheese‐making performance with camel chymosin and could be a good alternative for calf chymosin.
Determination of soybean routine quality parameters using near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Zhu Zhenying , Chen Shangbing , Wu Xueyou , Xing Changrui , Yuan Jian
Published: April 2018

Large differences in quality existed between soybean samples. In order to rapidly detect soybean quality between samples from different areas, we have developed near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) models for the moisture, crude fat, and protein content of soybeans, based on 360 soybean samples collected from different areas. Compared with whole kernels, soybean powder with particle sizes of 60 mesh was more suitable for modeling of moisture, crude fat, and protein content. To increase the reproducibility of the prediction model, uniform particle sizes of soybeans were prepared by grinding and sieving soybeans with different sizes and colors. Modeling analysis showed that the internal cross‐validation correlation coefficients (Rcv) for the moisture, crude fat, and protein content of soybeans were .965, .941, and .949, respectively, and the determination coefficients (R2) were .966, .958, and .958. NIRS performed well as a rapid method for the determination of routine quality parameters and provided reference data for the analysis of soybean quality using FT‐NIRS.
Enhanced yield of oleuropein from olive leaves using ultrasound‐assisted extraction
Authors: Cifá Domenico , Skrt Mihaela , Pittia Paola , Di Mattia Carla , Poklar Ulrih Nataša
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to optimize the extraction of oleuropein from olive leaves through a systematic study of the effects of different parameters of ultrasound‐assisted extraction (USAE) on the oleuropein yield, in comparison with conventional maceration extraction. A range of operational parameters were investigated for both conventional maceration extraction and USAE: solvent type, olive leaf mass‐to‐solvent volume ratio, and extraction time and temperature. Oleuropein yield was determined using high‐performance liquid chromatography, with total phenolics content also determined. The optimized conditions (water–ethanol, 30:70 [v/v]; leaf‐to‐solvent ratio, 1:5 [w/v]; 2 hr; 25°C) provided ~30% greater oleuropein extraction yield compared to conventional maceration extraction. The total phenolics content obtained using the optimized USAE conditions was greater than reported in other studies. USAE is shown to be an efficient alternative to conventional maceration extraction techniques, as not only can it offer increased oleuropein extraction yield, but it also shows a number of particular advantages, such as the possibility of lower volumes of solvent and lower extraction times, with the extraction carried out at lower temperatures.
Process analysis and economic evaluation of mixed aqueous ionic liquid and monoethanolamine (MEA) solvent for CO2 capture from a coke oven plant
Authors: Oko Eni , Zacchello Baptiste , Wang Meihong , Fethi Aloui
Published: April 2018

This study investigates the process and economic impacts of using an aqueous mixture of 1‐butylpyridinium tetrafluoroborate ([Bpy][BF4]) ionic liquid (IL) and monoethanolamine (MEA) as the solvent for CO2 capture from a coke‐oven plant. The gaps highlighted in the literature on the study of an aqueous mixture of IL and MEA for CO2 capture include lack of detailed process models or information on the impacts of varying the IL concentration on different process conditions and economics. This study addressed these needs by developing a rate‐based, solvent‐based CO2 capture process model with a mixed IL and MEA solvent and using the model to perform process and economic evaluations. The model was developed with Aspen Plus® and was used to investigate seven different aqueous mixtures of IL and MEA. The MEA concentration was 30 wt% for all the seven aqueous solvent mixtures, and the corresponding IL concentration was 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 wt% for each combination. The hybrid IL solvent mixtures (i.e. 5–30 wt% IL) have 7–9% and 12–27% less regeneration energy and solvent circulation rate respectively compared to the base case (i.e. 30 wt% MEA). Based on a commercial‐scale cost benchmark for the IL, the initial solvent cost for the mixed solution is predictably higher. However, the solvent makeup cost is less for the mixed solvent. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Peak visual gamma frequency is modified across the healthy menstrual cycle
Authors: Sumner Rachael L. , McMillan Rebecca L. , Shaw Alexander D. , Singh Krish D. , Sundram Fred , Muthukumaraswamy Suresh D.
Published: April 2018

Fluctuations in gonadal hormones over the course of the menstrual cycle are known to cause functional brain changes and are thought to modulate changes in the balance of cortical excitation and inhibition. Animal research has shown this occurs primarily via the major metabolite of progesterone, allopregnanolone, and its action as a positive allosteric modulator of the GABAA receptor. Our study used EEG to record gamma oscillations induced in the visual cortex using stationary and moving gratings. Recordings took place during twenty females’ mid‐luteal phase when progesterone and estradiol are highest, and early follicular phase when progesterone and estradiol are lowest. Significantly higher (∼5 Hz) gamma frequency was recorded during the luteal compared to the follicular phase for both stimuli types. Using dynamic causal modeling, these changes were linked to stronger self‐inhibition of superficial pyramidal cells in the luteal compared to the follicular phase. In addition, the connection from inhibitory interneurons to deep pyramidal cells was found to be stronger in the follicular compared to the luteal phase. These findings show that complex functional changes in synaptic microcircuitry occur across the menstrual cycle and that menstrual cycle phase should be taken into consideration when including female participants in research into gamma‐band oscillations.
Regioselective Dialkylations of N‐(tert‐Butyl)iminocyclopentane via Deprotonating One‐Pot Procedures
Authors: Knorr Rudolf , Neuner Brigitte
Published: April 2018

The title compound (1) was chosen as a model for the α/α′‐regioselectivity of deprotonation and subsequent alkylation adjacent to the C=N bond. With the bulky base lithium N,N‐diisopropylamide (LDA) as a catalyst, the one‐pot deprotonation steps can be performed through titration with methyllithium, using gas‐volumetric observation of the liberated methane. In the first step with ensuing methylation by iodomethane, the primary product is born at −40 °C in its metastable (Z) configuration (kinetic control) and may be either isolated or converted in situ at 30 °C into its thermodynamically favored (E)‐isomer via cis to trans stereoinversion at the N‐atom. Being slow enough on the laboratory time scale, this stereoinversion process can serve to control the regioselectivity of the second deprotonation/alkylation sequence as follows. The α,α′‐products are formed from the intermediate (Z)‐imine, whereas α,α‐products result from the intermediate (E)‐imine; in either case, syn deprotonation (cis to tBu at nitrogen) by LDA is apparently disfavored by the tBu group, so that anti deprotonation becomes obligatory. If a third one‐pot deprotonation step is too slow with LDA, it may be performed with the stronger base butyllithium/HMPA which, however, reacts regio‐unselectively. Regioselective one‐pot, LDA‐catalyzed deprotonation with alkylation by oxiranes (alone, or alternatingly with iodomethane) opens a short access to spiro‐[2.4]heptan‐4‐ones.
Reduction of N,N‐Dimethylcarboxamides to Aldehydes by Sodium Hydride–Iodide Composite
Authors: Chan Guo Hao , Ong Derek Yiren , Yen Zhihao , Chiba Shunsuke
Published: April 2018

A new and concise protocol for selective reduction of N,N‐dimethylamides into aldehydes was established using sodium hydride (NaH) in the presence of sodium iodide (NaI) under mild reaction conditions. The present protocol with the NaH‐NaI composite allows for reduction of not only aromatic and heteroaromatic but also aliphatic N,N‐dimethylamides with wide substituent compatibility. Retention of α‐chirality in the reduction of α‐enantioriched amides was accomplished. Use of sodium deuteride (NaD) offers a new step‐economical alternative to prepare deuterated aldehydes with high deuterium incorporation rate. The NaH‐NaI composite exhibits unique chemoselectivity for reduction of N,N‐dimethylamides over ketones.
Amiodarone‐induced thyrotoxicosis in heart failure with a reduced ejection fraction: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yamamoto Jennifer M. , Katz Pamela M. , Bras James A.F. , Shafer Leigh Anne , Leung Alexander A. , Ravandi Amir , Cordova Francisco J.
Published: April 2018

Background

Amiodarone‐induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. We aimed to describe AIT and its clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review at a heart failure center in Winnipeg, Canada. We screened 1059 consecutive patients seen over a 12‐month period (August 2011 to July 2012) for AIT in patients with HFrEF. Using descriptive and Cox proportional hazard analyses, we explored the association between AIT and mortality.

Results

A total of 110 patients with HFrEF who were exposed to amiodarone were included in the analysis. Of these, 13 (11.8%) were diagnosed with AIT. All AIT patients in our cohort were male. Amiodarone was discontinued in nearly half (46.2%) of patients with AIT. All patients were treated with antithyroid medications, and 5 patients (38.5%) also received prednisone. Euthyroidism was achieved in 2 patients (15.4%), hypothyroidism occurred in 6 patients (46.2%), and 5 patients remained thyrotoxic until death or time of chart review (38.5%).

Conclusion

Thyrotoxicosis is common in patients with HFrEF on amiodarone and is challenging to treat. Due to the sample size, while no association was found in mortality for patients with HFrEF with AIT, a real association could have been missed.
Data quality scoring system for microcosm and mesocosm studies used to derive a level of concern for atrazine
Authors: Giddings Jeffrey M , Campana David , Nair Shyam , Brain Richard
Published: April 2018

The US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has historically used different methods to derive an aquatic level of concern (LoC) for atrazine, though all have generally relied on an expanding set of mesocosm and microcosm (“cosm”) studies for calibration. The database of results from ecological effects studies with atrazine in cosms now includes 108 data points from 39 studies and forms the basis for assessing atrazine's potential to impact aquatic plant communities. Inclusion of the appropriate cosm studies and accurate interpretation of each data point—delineated as binary scores of “effect” (effect score 1) or “no effect” (effect score 0) of a specific atrazine exposure profile on plant communities in a single study—is critical to USEPA's approach to determining the LoC. We reviewed the atrazine cosm studies in detail and carefully interpreted their results in terms of the binary effect scores. The cosm database includes a wide range of experimental systems and study designs, some of which are more relevant to natural plant communities than others. Moreover, the studies vary in the clarity and consistency of their results. We therefore evaluated each study against objective criteria for relevance and reliability to produce a weighting score that can be applied to the effect scores when calculating the LoC. This approach is useful because studies that are more relevant and reliable have greater influence on the LoC than studies with lower weighting scores. When the current iteration of USEPA's LoC approach, referred to as the plant assemblage toxicity index (PATI), was calibrated with the weighted cosm data set, the result was a 60-day LoC of 21.2 μg/L. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2018;14:489–497. © 2018 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC)

Key Points

The extensive body of microcosm and mesocosm (“cosm”) research with the herbicide atrazine has been a major source of data for establishing a regulatory level of concern (LoC)—the highest level of exposure considered by risk managers to be protective of aquatic plant communities. The approach described in this paper—evaluating cosm studies for relevance and reliability and weighting the LoC analysis with the information—is useful because studies that are more relevant and reliable have greater influence on the LoC than studies with lower weighting scores. The atrazine LoC derivation process used by the USEPA is highly influenced by interpretation of individual cosm studies, by the model used to predict cumulative atrazine effects, and by the results of the data evaluation. When the EPA's current LoC approach, referred to as the Plant Assemblage Toxicity Index, was calibrated with appropriate cosm data weighted according to the data evaluation scores, the result was a 60-day time-weighted average exposure of 21.2 µg/L.
Controlling air pollution in a city: A perspective from SOAR-PESTLE analysis
Authors: Gheibi Mohammad , Karrabi Mohsen , Mohammadi Ali , Dadvar Azin
Published: April 2018

Strengths, opportunities, aspirations, and results (SOAR) analysis is a strategic planning framework that helps organizations focus on their current strengths and opportunities to create a vision of future aspirations and the results they will bring. PESTLE is an analytical framework for understanding external influences on a business. This research paper describes a field study and interviews of city hall managers from the city of Mashhad, Iran, conducted to investigate the application of SOAR and PESTLE frameworks for managing Mashhad's air pollution. Strategies are prioritized by the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS), Shannon entropy (SE), and analytic network process (ANP) multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) methods, considering economic conditions, managers’ opinions, consensus, city council approvals, and national documents. The results of this research study show that creating centralized databases, supporting local governments, and developing smart city infrastructure, with weights of 0.194, 0.182, and 0.161, respectively, are the highest ranked strategies for managing air pollution in Mashhad. It can also be concluded that citizen involvement is key to achieving success in the employment of any management strategy. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2018;14:480–488. © 2018 SETAC

Key Points

Air pollution is one of the biggest challenges faced by local governments, threatening the future of a city. As an ecosystem, the urban environment has a complex and dynamic function. In case of any disruption in this ecosystem, urban managers are required to employ strategies like account management policies and economic, social, technological, and environmental requirements. Due to growing population and limited resources, it is impossible to have urban management with no mutual interactions between citizens and urban management system. Results of this research showed that creating centralized databases, supporting local governments, and developing smart city infrastructure are the highest ranked strategies to manage air pollution.
Specific blockade CD73 alters the “exhausted” phenotype of T cells in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Deng Wei‐Wei , Li Yi‐Cun , Ma Si‐Rui , Mao Liang , Yu Guang‐Tao , Bu Lin‐Lin , Kulkarni Ashok B. , Zhang Wen‐Feng , Sun Zhi‐Jun
Published: April 2018

The adenosine‐induced immunosuppression hampers the immune response toward tumor cells and facilitates the tumor cells to evade immunosurveillance. CD73, an ecto‐5‐nucleotidase, is the ectoenzyme dephosphorylating extracellular AMP to adenosine. Here, using immunocompetent transgenic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) mouse model, immune profiling showed high expression of CD73 on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells was associated with an “exhausted” phenotype. Further, treatment with anti‐CD73 monoclonal antibody (mAb) significantly blunted the tumor growth in the mouse model, and the blockade of CD73 reversed the “exhausted” phenotype of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells through downregulation of total expression of PD‐1 and CTLA‐4 on T cells. Whereas the population of CD4+CD73hi/CD8+CD73hi T cells expressed higher CTLA‐4 and PD‐1 as compared to untreated controls. In addition, the human tissue microarrays showed the expression of CD73 is upregulated on tumor infiltrating immune cells in patients with primary HNSCC. Moreover, CD73 expression is an independent prognostic factor for poor outcome in our cohort of HNSCC patients. Altogether, these findings highlight the immunoregulatory role of CD73 in the development of HNSCC and we propose that CD73 may prove to be a promising immunotherapeutic target for the treatment of HNSCC.
Inside Cover: Polarimetric imaging of biological tissues based on the indices of polarimetric purity (J. Biophotonics 4/2018)
Authors: Van Eeckhout Albert , Lizana Angel , Garcia‐Caurel Enric , Gil José J. , Sansa Adrià , Rodríguez Carla , Estévez Irene , González Emilio , Escalera Juan C. , Moreno Ignacio , Campos Juan
Published: April 2018

The cover shows the image enhancement of biological tissues provided by the Indices of Polarimetric Purity (IPPs). By measuring the Mueller matrix of a biological sample, using an imaging polarimeter, the IPPs are calculated. They are polarimetric indicators providing further synthetization of depolarizing samples and leading to enhanced image contrast for some biological structures. Once the IPPs are calculated, a pseudo‐colouring technique is applied for higher visualization.

Further details can be found in the article by Albert Van Eeckhout et al. (e201700189)

image
Recent developments and clinical potential on decellularized adipose tissue
Authors: Dong Jia , Yu Mei , Zhang Yan , Yin Yin , Tian Weidong
Published: April 2018

Natural and synthetic materials have been developed to provide a three‐dimensional (3‐D) scaffold that mimics the extracellular matrix properties for tissue regeneration and reconstruction. On account of the excellent biological and mechanical properties, diverse decellularized tissue materials have been developed as natural scaffolds. Among them, decellularized adipose tissue (DAT) has generated great interest in recent years due to the extensiveness of the source and the eximious potential to enhance the regeneration and repair of damaged tissues. In this review, we compared the different physical, chemical, and biological treatment in recorded decellularization methods, and illustrated the similarities and differences in the characteristics of various aspects of DATs prepared by different methods, including macroscopic (macro) and microcosmic (micro) structure, cellular contents removal, DNA quantification, collagen, glycosaminoglycan (GAG) or growth factors retention, and mechanical properties. We also summarized the DAT application in the studies of tissue regeneration, wound healing, drug screening, and other diseases. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A:2562–2573, 2018.
Capsaicin reduces PLGA‐induced fibrosis by promoting M2 macrophages and suppressing overall inflammatory Response
Authors: Truong T. , Jones K. S.
Published: April 2018

Capsaicin reduced poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic) acid (PLGA)‐induced fibrosis by promoting IL‐10 secretion and suppressing alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) expression. The lifetime and efficacy of tissue engineering scaffolds are determined by the foreign body response. In this study, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo effects of capsaicin to reduce biomaterial‐induced fibrosis. RAW 264.7 cells cultured on PLGA films with capsaicin responded with significant (p < 0.05) upregulation in M2 markers arginase‐1 and IL‐10 and downregulation of M1 markers iNOS and IL‐12, demonstrating the potential of capsaicin to reduce PLGA‐induced inflammation. Subsequent animal studies were conducted where PLGA and capsaicin‐embedded PLGA discs were implanted in C57BL/6 mice for 2 and 14 days. Explanted capsaicin‐embedded PLGA implants had 40% less collagen than PLGA‐only implants. Capsaicin caused a 35% increase in IL‐10 which played a key role in suppressing fibrosis. Macrophage phenotype markers in peritoneal cells and adherent cells were unaffected by capsaicin; however, capsaicin suppressed the myofibroblast marker α‐SMA in adherent cells by day 14. Overall, our results revealed that capsaicin reduced biomaterial‐induced fibrosis and demonstrates that capsaicin has the potential to extend the lifetime of a tissue engineering scaffold when used in long‐term drug release applications from hydrophobic biomaterials. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A:2424–2432, 2018.
Kidney decellularized extracellular matrix hydrogels: Rheological characterization and human glomerular endothelial cell response to encapsulation
Authors: Su Jimmy , Satchell Simon C. , Shah Ramille N. , Wertheim Jason A.
Published: April 2018

Hydrogels, highly‐hydrated crosslinked polymer networks, closely mimic the microenvironment of native extracellular matrix (ECM) and thus present as ideal platforms for three‐dimensional cell culture. Hydrogels derived from tissue‐ and organ‐specific decellularized ECM (dECM) may retain bioactive signaling cues from the native tissue or organ that could in turn modulate cell–material interactions and response. In this study, we demonstrate that porcine kidney dECM can be processed to form hydrogels suitable for cell culture and encapsulation studies. Scanning electron micrographs of hydrogels demonstrated a fibrous ultrastructure with interconnected pores, and rheological analysis revealed rapid gelation times with shear moduli dependent upon the protein concentration of the hydrogels. Conditionally‐immortalized human glomerular endothelial cells (GEnCs) cultured on top of or encapsulated within hydrogels exhibited high cell viability and proliferation over a one‐week culture period. However, gene expression analysis of GEnCs encapsulated within kidney dECM hydrogels revealed significantly lower expression of several relevant genes of interest compared to those encapsulated within hydrogels composed of only purified collagen I. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A:2448–2462, 2018.
Investigation of nano‐sized debris released from CoCrMo secondary interfaces in total hip replacements: Digestion of the flakes
Authors: Crainic Alina M. , Callisti Mauro , Palmer Martin R. , Cook Richard B.
Published: April 2018

The in vivo release of wear debris and corrosion products from the metallic interfaces of total hip replacements is associated with a wide spectrum of adverse body reactions and systemic manifestations. The origin of debris and the electrochemical conditions at the sites of material loss both play a role in determining the physicochemical characteristics of the particles, and thus influence their in vivo reactivity. Debris retrieved from revised CoCrMo tapers and cement‐stem interfaces consists of heterogeneous flakes that comprise mechanically mixed metal particles, corrosion products and organic material. Detailed investigation of the size and composition of the metal debris contained within these composites requires the digestion of the flakes to release the small metal particles. Here, we compare alkaline and enzymatic digestion methods that both aim to fragment the flakes and reveal their smallest building blocks. The characterization of debris cleaned with both methods revealed crystalline Cr oxide nanoparticles and clusters. Comparison between the treatments showed that the alkaline method is more efficient in fragmenting the flakes and provided cleaner and generally smaller nanoparticles than exhibited in debris released with the enzymatic treatment. The provision of cleaner nanoparticles from the alkaline method also allows the physicochemical properties of the particles to be more clearly identified. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 107B: 424–434, 2019.
Functional and Hybrid Imaging of Bone Metastases
Authors: Cook Gary JR , Goh Vicky
Published: April 2018

Bone metastases are common, cause significant morbidity, and impact on healthcare resources. Although radiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and bone scintigraphy have frequently been used for staging the skeleton, these methods are insensitive and nonspecific for monitoring treatment response in a clinically relevant time frame. We summarize several recent reports on new functional and hybrid imaging methods including single photon emission CT/CT, positron emission tomography/CT, and whole-body MRI with diffusion-weighted imaging. These modalities generally show improvements in diagnostic accuracy for staging and response assessment over standard imaging methods, with the ability to quantify biological processes related to the bone microenvironment as well as tumor cells. As some of these methods are now being adopted into routine clinical practice and clinical trials, further evaluation with comparative studies is required to guide optimal and cost-effective clinical management of patients with skeletal metastases. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Identification of potential tumor‐educated platelets RNA biomarkers in non‐small‐cell lung cancer by integrated bioinformatical analysis
Authors: Xue Linlin , Xie Li , Song Xingguo , Song Xianrang
Published: April 2018

Background

Platelets have emerged as key players in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Tumor‐educated platelet (TEP) RNA profile has the potential to diagnose non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The objective of this study was to identify potential TEP RNA biomarkers for the diagnosis of NSCLC and to explore the mechanisms in alternations of TEP RNA profile.

Methods

The RNA‐seq datasets GSE68086 and GSE89843 were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus DataSets (GEO DataSets). Then, the functional enrichment of the differentially expressed mRNAs was analyzed by the Database for Annotation Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID). The miRNAs which regulated the differential mRNAs and the target mRNAs of miRNAs were identified by miRanda and miRDB. Then, the miRNA‐mRNA regulatory network was visualized via Cytoscape software.

Results

Twenty consistently altered mRNAs (2 up‐regulated and 18 down‐regulated) were identified from the two GSE datasets, and they were significantly enriched in several biological processes, including transport and establishment of localization. Twenty identical miRNAs were found between exosomal miRNA‐seq dataset and 229 miRNAs that regulated 20 consistently differential mRNAs in platelets. We also analyzed 13 spliceosomal mRNAs and their miRNA predictions; there were 27 common miRNAs between 206 differential exosomal miRNAs and 338 miRNAs that regulated 13 distinct spliceosomal mRNAs.

Conclusion

This study identified 20 potential TEP RNA biomarkers in NSCLC for diagnosis by integrated bioinformatical analysis, and alternations in TEP RNA profile may be related to the post‐transcriptional regulation and the splicing metabolisms of spliceosome.
Dilution of oral D3‐Creatine to measure creatine pool size and estimate skeletal muscle mass: development of a correction algorithm
Authors: Shankaran Mahalakshmi , Czerwieniec Gregg , Fessler Chancy , Wong Po‐yin Anne , Killion Salena , Turner Scott M. , Hellerstein Marc K. , Evans William J.
Published: April 2018

Background

Muscle mass can be measured directly in vivo by isotope dilution, using Creatine‐(methyl‐d3) monohydrate (D3‐Cr) by mouth followed by measurement of the steady‐state enrichment of D3‐creatinine (D3‐Crn) in urine. Isotope dilution methods require knowledge of the amount of tracer delivered to the pool of interest. In a subset of human subjects, a small amount of orally administered D3‐Cr ‘spills’ into urine after absorption and prior to transport into skeletal muscle cells. The objectives were to develop a method to correct for spillage to compare the estimate of muscle mass by D3‐Cr dilution to other assessments of fat‐free mass.

Methods

Subjects (19 males, 23–81 years old; 20 females, 20–77 years old) ingested a single dose of 60 mg D3‐Cr and urine was collected prior to and daily for 4 days following the dose. Fasting morning urine samples was assessed for D3‐Cr, total Cr, D3‐Crn, and total Crn concentrations, as well as isotopic enrichments of D3‐Crn, by LC/MS. The 24‐h urine collections over 3 days after the dose of D3‐Cr were also performed to determine D3‐Cr spillage. Total body water, fat mass, and fat‐free mass were assessed by bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS).

Results

Spillage of D3‐Cr in the urine was greater in women than men. D3‐Crn enrichment and the ratio of Cr/Crn were used in an algorithm to calculate Cr pool size and muscle mass. Specifically, an algorithm was developed for the estimation of spillage based on the relationship between the fasting Cr/Crn ratio and the cumulative proportion of the D3‐Cr dose excreted over 3 days based on 24‐h urine collections. Muscle mass corrected using the algorithm based on fasting urine levels correlated (r = 0.9967, P < 0.0001) with that corrected by measuring D3‐Cr dose excreted. Muscle mass measured by D3‐Crn enrichment also correlated (r = 0.8579, P < 0.0001, algorithm corrected) with that measured by 24‐h Crn excretion. Muscle mass measured by D3‐Cr dilution method correlated with intracellular water by BIS, whether using spillage corrected by the algorithm (r = 0.9041, P < 0.0001) or measured by 3 day D3‐Cr losses (r = 0.91, P < 0.0001) and similarly correlated with fat‐free mass by BIA (r = 0.8857 and 0.8929, P < 0.0001, respectively).

Conclusions

The D3‐Cr dilution method is further validated here as a non‐invasive, easy‐to‐use test for measuring muscle mass. The technical issue of D3‐Cr spillage can be corrected for with a simple algorithm based on fasting spot urine samples. Muscle mass by Cr dilution potentially has broad applications in clinical and research settings.
A Facile Synthesis of Xanthene‐1,8(2H)‐dione Derivatives by Using Tetrapropylammonium Bromide as Catalyst
Authors: Poursattar Marjani Ahmad , Abdollahi Sima , Ezzati Mahnaz , Nemati‐Kande Ebrahim
Published: April 2018

Several new derivatives of 9‐aroyl‐3,4,5,6,7,9‐hexahydro‐1H‐xanthene‐1,8(2H)‐dione have been synthesized in yields varying from high to excellent by the condensation reaction of arylglyoxals with 1,3‐diketones (cyclohexane‐1,3‐dione or dimedone) and TPAB as an inexpensive, recoverable, and non‐toxic catalyst in the presence of ethanol/water under reflux conditions.
Asymmetric Synthesis of Potential Precursors of the HIV Drug MC1220 and Its Analogues by Hydrogenation of (1‐Arylvinyl)pyrimidines
Authors: Loksha Yasser M. , Pedersen Erik B.
Published: April 2018

Because MC1220 is a promising microbicide with anti‐HIV‐1 activity, the possibility for asymmetric synthesis of its potential precursors is explored. Here, we investigate asymmetric reduction of the vinyl double bond of 6‐(1‐arylvinyl)pyrimidine derivatives to their corresponding ethylidene analogues. Catalysts with ligands bearing trivalent phosphorus ligating the soft metals rhodium(I), ruthenium(II), or iridium(I) are used for asymmetric reduction of the vinyl derivatives 5a–e. The enantioselective reduction reaches 92% ee and about 71% conversion for reduction of the 6‐(1‐(3,5‐dimethylphenyl)vinyl)pyrimidine derivative 5b using the asymmetric catalyst catASium M(R)Rh (7m). However, for the more sterically hindered double bond in the corresponding 2,6‐difluorophenyl derivative 5e, the enantioselective reduction dropped to 30% ee and 14% conversion.
Validation of a motion‐robust 2D sequential technique for quantification of hepatic proton density fat fraction during free breathing
Authors: Pooler B. Dustin , Hernando Diego , Ruby Jeannine A. , Ishii Hiroshi , Shimakawa Ann , Reeder Scott B.
Published: April 2018

Background

Current chemical‐shift‐encoded (CSE) MRI techniques for measuring hepatic proton density fat fraction (PDFF) are sensitive to motion artifacts.

Purpose

Initial validation of a motion‐robust 2D‐sequential CSE‐MRI technique for quantification of hepatic PDFF.

Study Type

Phantom study and prospective in vivo cohort.

Population

Fifty adult patients (27 women, 23 men, mean age 57.2 years).

Field Strength/Sequence

3D, 2D‐interleaved, and 2D‐sequential CSE‐MRI acquisitions at 1.5T.

Assessment

Three CSE‐MRI techniques (3D, 2D‐interleaved, 2D‐sequential) were performed in a PDFF phantom and in vivo. Reference standards were 3D CSE‐MRI PDFF measurements for the phantom study and single‐voxel MR spectroscopy hepatic PDFF measurements (MRS‐PDFF) in vivo. In vivo hepatic MRI‐PDFF measurements were performed during a single breath‐hold (BH) and free breathing (FB), and were repeated by a second reader for the FB 2D‐sequential sequence to assess interreader variability.

Statistical Tests

Correlation plots to validate the 2D‐sequential CSE‐MRI against the phantom and in vivo reference standards. Bland–Altman analysis of FB versus BH CSE‐MRI acquisitions to evaluate robustness to motion. Bland–Altman analysis to assess interreader variability.

Results

Phantom 2D‐sequential CSE‐MRI PDFF measurements demonstrated excellent agreement and correlation (R2 > 0.99) with 3D CSE‐MRI. In vivo, the mean (±SD) hepatic PDFF was 8.8 ± 8.7% (range 0.6–28.5%). Compared with BH acquisitions, FB hepatic PDFF measurements demonstrated bias of +0.15% for 2D‐sequential compared with + 0.53% for 3D and +0.94% for 2D‐interleaved. 95% limits of agreement (LOA) were narrower for 2D‐sequential (±0.99%), compared with 3D (±3.72%) and 2D‐interleaved (±3.10%). All CSE‐MRI techniques had excellent correlation with MRS (R2 > 0.97). The FB 2D‐sequential acquisition demonstrated little interreader variability, with mean bias of +0.07% and 95% LOA of ± 1.53%.

Data Conclusion

This motion‐robust 2D‐sequential CSE‐MRI can accurately measure hepatic PDFF during free breathing in a patient population with a range of PDFF values of 0.6–28.5%, permitting accurate quantification of liver fat content without the need for suspended respiration.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;48:1578–1585
Evaluation of hernia of the male inguinal canal: sonographic method
Authors: Jansen Christopher J. , Yielder Paul C.
Published: April 2018

Sonography of the male inguinal canal for hernia is a common request. There is debate about the accuracy and even need for sonographic assessment of inguinal hernia. A clear, concise method is presented, with correlated diagrams and sonographic images, which aims to improve the ability of sonographers to easily identify inguinal herniae.
Sero‐prevalence of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) specific antibodies in dromedary camels in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Harrath Rafik , Abu Duhier Faisel M.
Published: April 2018

The Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) is a novel Coronavirus which was responsible of the first case of human acute respiratory syndrome in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), 2012. Dromedary camels are considered as potential reservoirs for the virus and seem to be the only animal host which may transmit the infection to human. Further studies are required to better understand the animal sources of zoonotic transmission route and the risks of this infection. A primary sero‐prevalence study of MERS‐CoV preexisting neutralizing antibodies in Dromedary camel serum was conducted in Tabuk, western north region of KSA, in order to assess the seopositivity of these animals and to explain their possible role in the transmission of the infection to Human. One hundred seventy one (171) serum samples were collected from healthy dromedary camels with different ages and genders in Tabuk city and tested for specific serum IgG by ELISA using the receptor‐binding S1 subunits of spike proteins of MERS‐CoV. 144 (84,21%) of the total camel sera shown the presence of protein‐specific antibodies against MERS‐CoV. These results may provide evidence that MERS‐CoV has previously infected dromedary camels in Tabuk and may support the possible role of camels in the human infection.
Seroprevalence, molecular epidemiology and quantitation of parvovirus B19 DNA levels in Iranian blood donors
Authors: Zadsar Maryam , Aghakhani Arezoo , Banifazl Mohammad , Kazemimanesh Monireh , Tabatabaei Yazdi Seyed Morteza , Mamishi Setareh , Bavand Anahita , Sadat Larijani Mona , Ramezani Amitis
Published: April 2018

Human parvovirus B19 (B19) infection is common among blood donors, and healthy blood donors can transmit virus via transfusion. Due to resistance of B19 to viral inactivation methods, there is a potential concern regarding transfusion safety in blood products. We aimed to determine the seroprevalence, molecular epidemiology, and quantitation of B19 DNA levels in blood donors in Tehran, Iran. A total of 500 blood donors from Blood Transfusion Research Center were studied. ELISA was used for detection of B19 IgG and IgM and nested PCR was carried out for detection of B19 DNA. PCR products were subjected to direct sequencing. B19 viral load was determined by real time PCR. B19 IgG, IgM, and DNA were detected in 27.6, 2.6, and 1.2% of donors respectively. Ten samples (2%) were positive for both antibodies while in four cases (0.8%), B19 IgG and DNA detected simultaneously. One case had B19 IgM, IgG, and viremia concurrently. The titers of B19 DNA in four of six donors were more than 106 IU/mL (high level viremia) and all four cases had IgG simultaneously. All B19 isolates categorized in genotype 1A. Our findings indicated that prevalence of B19 DNA in Iranian blood donors was comparable with previous studies throughout the world. High level B19 viremia found in 0.8% of our donors and all viremic donors revealed neutralizing B19 antibody. Therefore implementation of a B19 screening test for each volunteer blood donor does not appear to be necessary but B19 testing for plasma‐derived products seems important in Iranian donors.
Hepatitis D infection in Brazil: Prevalence and geographical distribution of anti‐Delta antibody
Authors: Lago Barbara V. , Mello Francisco C. A. , Barros Tairine M. , Mello Vinicius M. , Villar Livia M. , Lewis‐Ximenez Lia L. , Pardini Maria Inês M. C. , Lampe Elisabeth ,   on behalf of The Brazilian Hepatitis B Research Group
Published: April 2018

In Brazil, the Amazon Basin is endemic for hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection; however, studies in other regions of the country are scarce. This study aims to map the seroepidemiological situation of anti‐Delta antibodies in chronic hepatitis B carriers in all five Brazilian geographic regions. Serum samples from 1240 HBsAg positive individuals (55.4% men; mean age 43.1 ± 13.4 years) from 24 of 26 Brazilian states were tested for the presence of anti‐Delta antibodies using a commercial immunoassay. Anti‐Delta antibodies were detected in 40 samples (3.2%; 52.5% female; mean age of 38.1 ± 13.8 years). Age less than 20 years was significantly associated with anti‐HDV positivity (P < 0.001). The distribution of anti‐Delta differed markedly in the diverse regions of the country. The highest prevalence of anti‐HDV was found in the North (8.5%; P < 0.001), followed by Central West (2.5%), Southeast (1.7%), Northeast (0.8%), and South (0.0%). Anti‐Delta antibodies were detected in 12 states, but more than 60% of the positive cases were observed in two states, Amazonas and Acre, located in the western portion of the Amazon region. The overall HDV prevalence of 3.2% emphasizes that HDV is far from being a disease under control in Brazil. Despite the low HDV prevalence in non‐endemic regions, this infection persists as a major concern in two states (Acre and Amazonas) in the north of the country, indicating that a continuous epidemiological surveillance program should be implemented in all Brazilian regions.
Seroprevalence of Zika virus and Rubella virus IgG among blood donors in Rwanda and in Sweden
Authors: Seruyange Eric , Gahutu Jean‐Bosco , Muvunyi Claude M. , Katare Swaibu , Ndahindwa Vedaste , Sibomana Hassan , Nyamusore José , Rutagarama Florent , Hannoun Charles , Norder Helene , Bergström Tomas
Published: April 2018

Seroprevalence studies provide information on the susceptibility to infection of certain populations, including women of childbearing age. Such data from Central Africa are scarce regarding two viruses that cause congenital infections: Zika virus (ZIKV), an emerging mosquito‐borne infection, and Rubella virus (RuV), a vaccine‐preventable infection. We report on the seroprevalence of both ZIKV and RuV from Rwanda, a country without any known cases of ZIKV, but bordering Uganda where this virus was isolated in 1947. Anti‐ZIKV‐specific and anti‐RuV‐specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies were analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in serum samples from 874 Rwandan and 215 Swedish blood donors. Samples positive for IgG antibodies against ZIKV were examined for viral RNA using real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). The seroprevalence of ZIKV IgG in Rwanda was 1.4% (12/874), of which the predominance of positive findings came from the Southeastern region. All anti‐ZIKV IgG‐positive samples were PCR‐negative. Among 297 female blood donors of childbearing age, 295 (99.3%) were seronegative and thus susceptible to ZIKV. All Swedish blood donors were IgG‐negative to ZIKV. In contrast, blood donors from both countries showed high seroprevalence of IgG to RuV: 91.2% for Rwandan and 92.1% for Swedish donors. Only 10.5% (31/294) of female donors of childbearing age from Rwanda were seronegative for RuV. In Rwanda, seroprevalence for ZIKV IgG antibodies was low, but high for RuV. Hence, women of childbearing age were susceptible to ZIKV. These data may be of value for decision‐making regarding prophylactic measures.
Usefulness of national respiratory virus surveillance data for clinicians who manage adult patients
Authors: Cho Eun Been , Choi Seong‐Ho , Chung Jin‐Won , Lee Mi‐Kyung
Published: April 2018

The Korean Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) provides weekly respiratory virus (RV) surveillance reports on its website (the KCDC data). Clinicians in clinical settings wherein the use of PCR for RVs is not a routine laboratory test for adult patients with acute respiratory illness (ARI) may question the clinical utility of such a national RV surveillance dataset in predicting RV outbreaks among their adult patients. We compared the KCDC data to the RV PCR data of adult patients who visited a tertiary care center. During a period of 108 weeks, a total of 6955 (5598 pediatric and 1257 adult) patients underwent RV PCR tests for ARI; most of these tests were administered while the patients were admitted (n = 6,920; 99.5%). From the KCDC website, we collected the RV PCR test results of 22 540 patients. Three graphs of weekly positivity rates were made for adults, children, and the KCDC data per each RV, and these graphs were then compared with one another. Whereas RV outbreaks were coincident between the KCDC and the adult graph with respect to influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, human metapneumovirus, and human coronavirus, the same was not true for human bocavirus, parainfluenza virus, rhinovirus, and adenovirus. However, a negative predictive value of the KCDC data in the prediction of the occurrence of an outbreak in the adult graph was high for the respective eight RVs (85‐100%). A national RV surveillance dataset may be useful in identifying RV outbreaks in adult patients with severe ARI.
On the folly of punishing A while hoping for A: Exploring punishment in organizations
Authors: Skaggs Bruce C. , Manz Charles C. , Lyle Matthew C.B. , Pearce Craig L.
Published: April 2018

This Incubator complements Kerr's classic writing, extended by recent articles by Wright and colleagues, “On the Folly of Rewarding A, While Hoping for B.” Here, we focus on the potentially even more extreme, self‐sabotaging folly of punishing A while hoping for A (i.e., the behaviors and outcomes organizations want most).
Epilogue: Creativity as Immersed Detachment
Authors: Glăveanu Vlad Petre
Published: April 2018

In this short epilogue, I reflect on a final, basic paradox when it comes to creativity: the fact that creators are simultaneously deeply immersed into their environment and their work and, at the same time, capable of taking distance from both in order to develop new perspectives on the situation or problem at hand. This particular state of “immersed detachment” is enabled by our existence as social and cultural beings, a condition that both constrains and frees our thinking and our action. Understanding this paradoxical condition and fostering it can have wide‐ranging benefits at a theoretical and practical level. Conceptually, it helps us understand why creativity depends, at once, on individuals and society, uniqueness and sameness, continuity and difference. Practically, it encourages those forms of immersion and connectivity that help rather than hinder creative agency.