bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collaborating to Compete: Blood Profiling Atlas in Cancer (BloodPAC) Consortium
Authors: Grossman RL , Abel B , Angiuoli S , Barrett JC , Bassett D , Bramlett K , Blumenthal GM , Carlsson A , Cortese R , DiGiovanna J , Davis‐Dusenbery B , Dittamore R , Eberhard DA , Febbo P , Fitzsimons M , Flamig Z , Godsey J , Goswami J , Gruen A , Ortuño F , Han J , Hayes D , Hicks J , Holloway D , Hovelson D , Johnson J , Juhl H , Kalamegham R , Kamal R , Kang Q , Kelloff GJ , Klozenbuecher M , Kolatkar A , Kuhn P , Langone K , Leary R , Loverso P , Manmathan H , Martin A‐M , Martini J , Miller D , Mitchell M , Morgan T , Mulpuri R , Nguyen T , Otto G , Pathak A , Peters E , Philip R , Posadas E , Reese D , Reese MG , Robinson D , Dei Rossi A , Sakul H , Schageman J , Singh S , Scher HI , Schmitt K , Silvestro A , Simmons J , Simmons T , Sislow J , Talasaz A , Tang P , Tewari M , Tomlins S , Toukhy H , Tseng HR , Tuck M , Tzou A , Vinson J , Wang Y , Wells W , Welsh A , Wilbanks J , Wolf J , Young L , Lee JSH , Leiman LC
Published: February 2017

The cancer community understands the value of blood profiling measurements in assessing and monitoring cancer. We describe an effort among academic, government, biotechnology, diagnostic, and pharmaceutical companies called the Blood Profiling Atlas in Cancer (BloodPAC) Project. BloodPAC will aggregate, make freely available, and harmonize for further analyses, raw datasets, relevant associated clinical data (e.g., clinical diagnosis, treatment history, and outcomes), and sample preparation and handling protocols to accelerate the development of blood profiling assays.
Absorbable collagen sponges loaded with recombinant bone morphogenetic protein 9 induces greater osteoblast differentiation when compared to bone morphogenetic protein 2
Authors: Fujioka‐Kobayashi Masako , Schaller Benoit , Saulacic Nikola , Pippenger Benjamin E. , Zhang Yufeng , Miron Richard J.
Published: February 2017

The use of growth factors for the regeneration of soft and hard tissues has been utilized extensively in dental medicine over the past decade. Recently our group found that recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 9 (rhBMP9) was more osteopromotive than recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rhBMP2) when combined with a deprotenized bovine bone mineral bone grafting material. The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate the regenerative potential of an absorbable collagen sponge(ACS) specifically designed for extraction socket healing loaded with rhBMP9 when compared to rhBMP2. The adsorption and release kinetics of rhBMP2 and rhBMP9 were first investigated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay quantification. Then, the cellular effects of stromal cell line (ST2) preosteoblasts were investigated utilizing four groups including rhBMP2 and rhBMP9 at both low(10 ng/ml) and high(100 ng/ml) concentrations loaded onto ACS. Cellular attachment(8 hours) and proliferation(1, 3, and 5 days) as well as osteoblast differentiation were investigated by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) at 3 and 14 days, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity at 7 days, and alizarin red staining at 14 days. ACS fully adsorbed both rhBMP2 and rhBMP9 that were slowly released up to 10 days. Although neither rhBMP2 nor rhBMP9 had any effects on cell attachment or proliferation, pronounced effects were observed on osteoblast differentiation. ALP activity was increased seven‐fold with rhBMP2‐high, whereas a marked 10‐fold and 20‐fold increase was observed with rhBMP9‐low and high loaded to ACS, respectively. Furthermore, mRNA levels of collagen1, ALP, bone sialoprotein, and osteocalcin were all significantly higher for rhBMP9 when compared to control or rhBMP2 groups. Alizarin red staining further confirmed that rhBMP9‐low and high demonstrated marked increases in mineralization potential when compared to rhBMP2‐high. The results demonstrate the marked effect of rhBMP9 on osteoblast differentiation when combined with ACS in comparison to rhBMP2 at doses as much as 10 times lower. Further in vivo studies are necessary to investigate whether the regenerative potential is equally as potent.
UWB pulse design using constraint convex sets method
Authors: Sharma Sanjeev , Bhatia Vimal
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we propose a constrained convex sets–based method for designing ultra‐wideband (UWB) pulse. The UWB pulses designed using earlier proposed methods either do not fit well in UWB spectral mask or require extra processing circuitry for pulses to fit in the UWB spectral mask. The proposed constraint sets–based method is flexible and optimum for the UWB mask. The pulse designed by the proposed method is Federal Communication Commission compliant and has an autocorrelation function similar to the Gaussian pulse. The bit error rate performance of time hopping binary phase shift keying using the proposed method and some of the existing methods such as Norman and Lee pulses and sixth derivative Gaussian pulse is analyzed in additive white Gaussian noise and Saleh‐Valenzuela channels. Pulse designed using the proposed method outperforms existing pulse design, and the same is verified through simulations. The proposed algorithm is flexible and can also be used to mitigate narrow band interference, multiband UWB pulse generation and any other Federal Communication Commission (or other regulatory body) compliant spectrum mask by modifying the parameter of the proposed constraint set(s).
Water, land, fire, and forest: Multi‐scale determinants of rainforests in the Australian monsoon tropics
Authors: Ondei Stefania , Prior Lynda D. , Williamson Grant J. , Vigilante Tom , Bowman David M. J. S.
Published: February 2017

The small rainforest fragments found in savanna landscapes are powerful, yet often overlooked, model systems to understand the controls of these contrasting ecosystems. We analyzed the relative effect of climatic variables on rainforest density at a subcontinental level, and employed high‐resolution, regional‐level analyses to assess the importance of landscape settings and fire activity in determining rainforest density in a frequently burnt Australian savanna landscape. Estimates of rainforest density (ha/km2) across the Northern Territory and Western Australia, derived from preexisting maps, were used to calculate the correlations between rainforest density and climatic variables. A detailed map of the northern Kimberley (Western Australia) rainforests was generated and analyzed to determine the importance of geology and topography in controlling rainforests, and to contrast rainforest density on frequently burnt mainland and nearby islands. In the northwestern Australian, tropics rainforest density was positively correlated with rainfall and moisture index, and negatively correlated with potential evapotranspiration. At a regional scale, rainforests showed preference for complex topographic positions and more fertile geology. Compared with mainland areas, islands had significantly lower fire activity, with no differences between terrain types. They also displayed substantially higher rainforest density, even on level terrain where geomorphological processes do not concentrate nutrients or water. Our multi‐scale approach corroborates previous studies that suggest moist climate, infrequent fires, and geology are important stabilizing factors that allow rainforest fragments to persist in savanna landscapes. These factors need to be incorporated in models to predict the future extent of savannas and rainforests under climate change.
Functional dominance rather than taxonomic diversity and functional diversity mainly affects community aboveground biomass in the Inner Mongolia grassland
Authors: Zhang Qing , Buyantuev Alexander , Li Frank Yonghong , Jiang Lin , Niu Jianming , Ding Yong , Kang Sarula , Ma Wenjing
Published: February 2017

The relationship between biodiversity and productivity has been a hot topic in ecology. However, the relative importance of taxonomic diversity and functional characteristics (including functional dominance and functional diversity) in maintaining community productivity and the underlying mechanisms (including selection and complementarity effects) of the relationship between diversity and community productivity have been widely controversial. In this study, 194 sites were surveyed in five grassland types along a precipitation gradient in the Inner Mongolia grassland of China. The relationships between taxonomic diversity (species richness and the Shannon–Weaver index), functional dominance (the community‐weighted mean of four plant traits), functional diversity (Rao's quadratic entropy), and community aboveground biomass were analyzed. The results showed that (1) taxonomic diversity, functional dominance, functional diversity, and community aboveground biomass all increased from low to high precipitation grassland types; (2) there were significant positive linear relationships between taxonomic diversity, functional dominance, functional diversity, and community aboveground biomass; (3) the effect of functional characteristics on community aboveground biomass is greater than that of taxonomic diversity; and (4) community aboveground biomass depends on the community‐weighted mean plant height, which explained 57.1% of the variation in the community aboveground biomass. Our results suggested that functional dominance rather than taxonomic diversity and functional diversity mainly determines community productivity and that the selection effect plays a dominant role in maintaining the relationship between biodiversity and community productivity in the Inner Mongolia grassland.
Using a multiscale image processing method to characterize the periodic growth patterns on scallop shells
Authors: Xing Qiang , Wei Tengda , Chen Zhihui , Wang Yangfan , Lu Yuan , Wang Shi , Zhang Lingling , Bao Zhenmin
Published: February 2017

The fine periodic growth patterns on shell surfaces have been widely used for studies in the ecology and evolution of scallops. Modern X‐ray CT scanners and digital cameras can provide high‐resolution image data that contain abundant information such as the shell formation rate, ontogenetic age, and life span of shellfish organisms. We introduced a novel multiscale image processing method based on matched filters with Gaussian kernels and partial differential equation (PDE) multiscale hierarchical decomposition to segment the small tubular and periodic structures in scallop shell images. The periodic patterns of structures (consisting of bifurcation points, crossover points of the rings and ribs, and the connected lines) could be found by our Space‐based Depth‐First Search (SDFS) algorithm. We created a MATLAB package to implement our method of periodic pattern extraction and pattern matching on the CT and digital scallop images available in this study. The results confirmed the hypothesis that the shell cyclic structure patterns encompass genetically specific information that can be used as an effective invariable biomarker for biological individual recognition. The package is available with a quick‐start guide and includes three examples: http://mgb.ouc.edu.cn/novegene/html/code.php.
Quantifying the responses of biological indices to rare macroinvertebrate taxa exclusion: Does excluding more rare taxa cause more error?
Authors: Yu Zhengda , Wang Hui , Meng Jiao , Miao Mingsheng , Kong Qiang , Wang Renqing , Liu Jian
Published: February 2017

Including or excluding rare taxa in bioassessment is a controversial topic, which essentially affects the reliability and accuracy of the result. In the present paper, we hypothesize that biological indices such as Shannon–Wiener index, Simpson's index, Margalef index, evenness, BMWP (biological monitoring working party), and ASPT (Average Score Per Taxon) respond differently to rare taxa exclusion. To test this hypothesis, a benthic macroinvertebrate data set based on recent fifteen‐year studies in China was built for suppositional plot analyses. A field research was conducted in the Nansi Lake to perform related analyses. The results of suppositional plot simulations showed that Simpson's index placed more weight on common taxa than any other studied indices, followed by Shannon–Wiener index which remained a high value with the exclusion of rare taxa. The results indicated that there was not much of effect on Simpson's index and Shannon–Wiener index when rare taxa were excluded. Rare taxa played an important role in Margalef index and BMWP than in other indices. Evenness showed an increase trend, while ASPT varied inconsistently with the exclusion of rare taxa. Results of the field study also indicated that rare taxa had few impacts on the Shannon–Wiener index. By examining the relationships between the rare taxa and biological indices in our study, it is suggested that including the rare taxa when using BMWP and excluding them in the proposed way (e.g., fixed‐count subsampling) to calculate Shannon–Wiener index and Simpson's index could raise the efficiency and reduce the biases in the bioassessment of freshwater ecosystems.
Diagnostic dilemmas in HLH: Can T‐cell phenotyping help?
Authors: Marsh Rebecca A.
Published: February 2017

The diagnosis of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) can be a difficult one, and the distinction between primary versus secondary HLH can be particularly challenging during the early stages of diagnosis. This distinction is important to make as primary HLH requires allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for a definitive cure. Flow cytometric screening tests for many of the genetic forms of HLH are available. However, not all patients with primary HLH are captured by these screening tests, due to the fact that no screening test is 100% sensitive, and additionally, some patients with “primary” forms of HLH may have mutations in genes which are yet to be discovered. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, Ammann et al. [Eur. J. Immunol. 2017. 47: 364–373] compare T‐cell phenotype patterns among patients with primary and secondary HLH, and find that assessment of T‐cell activation and differentiation may assist with the diagnosis of HLH. Furthermore, this phenotypic analysis has the potential to help make the important distinction between primary and secondary HLH.
Comparison of isothermal and cycling temperature storage of filled dark chocolate products for accelerated shelf life prediction
Authors: Rothkopf Isabell , Schütz Barbara , Danzl Wolfgang , Ziegleder Gottfried
Published: February 2017

Beside a loss in texture, the main quality aspect of filled chocolate products during storage is the development of fat bloom. For these products isothermal or cycling temperature storage tests are used for accelerated shelf life prediction. However, the applicability of these tests compared to real storage conditions is complicated and shelf life estimation is vague. Com;1;paring storage tests of different authors is difficult because products and analysis methods vary. Additionally most of the storage tests are performed to identify the reasons for fat bloom and therefore the storage conditions are not separately investigated. However, all studies agree that temperature has a major impact due to its influence on migration and crystallization. While migration is accelerated at higher temperatures, crystallization shows an optimum at lower temperatures. Therefore, migration and crystal state have to be evaluated during storage, as well as fat bloom formation. In this study, cold stamped dark chocolate shells with nougat filling were chosen to compare isothermal and cycling temperature storage conditions. Cycling temperature storage at adequate levels includes optimum for fat bloom formation, but takes crystallization and migration influence in unequal account. In contrast, isothermal storage at optimum temperature leads to faster fat bloom formation.

Practical applications: A precise shelf life prediction helps to reduce food waste. Shelf life estimation is relevant to almost all chocolate manufacturers. Increasing quality standards accompanied by shortened development time demand accelerated tests for shelf life prediction. Conventional storage tests are too expensive and time‐consuming, especially for small and medium‐sized enterprises, which often sell premium filled chocolate products. Additionally a short time to market is needed to be capable of competing. In the present study different accelerated storage tests were compared. The results can be used to choose the relevant test for new developed products and optimization of existing products and processes.

In filled pralines storage is a complex interaction of migration and crystallization, which is highly depending on temperature and temperature fluctuation
Synthesis of Chiral Tetrahydrofurans and Pyrrolidines by Visible‐Light‐Mediated Deoxygenation
Authors: Rackl Daniel , Kais Viktor , Lutsker Eugen , Reiser and Oliver
Published: February 2017

The synthesis of chiral tetrahydrofurans and pyrrolidines starting from 1,2‐diols or β‐amino alcohols, respectively, by visible‐light‐mediated deoxygenation is described. Easily accessible monoallylated/propargylated substrates were activated either as inexpensive ethyl oxalates or as recyclable 3,5‐bis(trifluoromethyl)benzoates to generate alkyl radicals suitable for 5‐exo‐trig/5‐exo‐dig cyclizations under visible‐light irradiation.
Electrochemical Sensors Continuously Monitor Magnesium Biodegradation under Cell Culture Conditions
Authors: Kuhlmann Julia , Guo Xuefei , Zhang Zhanping , Hopkins Tracy , Wang Tingting , Ojo Kolade , Pixley Sarah K. , Heineman William R.
Published: February 2017

Magnesium (Mg) and its alloys have increasingly been considered as implant materials for orthopedic, craniofacial, and cardiovascular applications. These materials generally have mechanical properties close to those of human bone and they biodegrade in aqueous environments. The biodegradation properties can be tailored to fit the desired application by changing the alloying elements and/or by addition of surface coatings. To test and compare the biodegradation properties of different materials, immersion tests in solutions ranging from simple salt solutions to complex biological media are commonly done that yield some information about the biodegradation rate and the biodegradation products on the surface after completion of the test. Here we report on a method that allows the continuous real‐time monitoring of the biodegradation process using electrochemical sensors for pH and H2 during immersion of Mg samples in the cell culture medium DMEM/F12 with different concentrations of fetal bovine serum and in the presence of living cells. The sensors effectively indicated the biodegradation behavior of Mg samples in real‐time. This system could be very useful for immersion tests and even supporting biocompatibility testing of implant materials.
Chronic toxicity of azoxystrobin to freshwater amphipods, midges, cladocerans, and mussels in water-only exposures
Authors: Kunz James L. , Ingersoll Chris G. , Smalling Kelly L. , Elskus Adria A. , Kuivila Kathryn M.
Published: February 2017

Understanding the effects of fungicides on nontarget organisms at realistic concentrations and exposure durations is vital for determining potential impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Environmental concentrations of the fungicide azoxystrobin have been reported up to 4.6 μg/L in the United States and 30 μg/L in Europe. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the chronic toxicity of azoxystrobin in water-only exposures with an amphipod (Hyalella azteca; 42-d exposure), a midge (Chironomus dilutus; 50-d exposure), a cladoceran (Ceriodaphnia dubia; 7-d exposure), and a unionid mussel (Lampsilis siliquoidea; 28-d exposure) at environmentally relevant concentrations. The potential photo-enhanced toxicity of azoxystrobin accumulated by C. dubia and L. siliquoidea following chronic exposures to azoxystrobin was also evaluated. The 20% effect concentrations (EC20s) based on the most sensitive endpoint were 4.2 μg/L for H. azteca reproduction, 12 μg/L for C. dubia reproduction and C. dilutus emergence, and >28 μg/L for L. siliquoidea. Hyalella azteca was more sensitive to azoxystrobin compared with the other 3 species in the chronic exposures. No photo-enhanced toxicity was observed for either C. dubia or L. siliquoidea exposed to ultraviolet light in control water following azoxystrobin tests. The results of the present study indicate chronic effects of azoxystrobin on 3 of 4 invertebrates tested at environmentally relevant concentrations. The changes noted in biomass and reproduction have the potential to alter the rate of ecological processes driven by aquatic invertebrates. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:2308–2315. Published 2017 Wiley Periodicals Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
Engineering geological and geotechnical analysis of a rock slide in the quarry Frauenmühle near Metten (Lower Bavaria)
Authors: Nickmann Marion , Schweigl Theresa , Thuro Kurosch
Published: February 2017

In spring 2008 a rock slide detached from one of the walls in the quarry ”Frauenmühle“ locally used as climbing park, mobilizing a volume of 50 m3. The binary granite is relative fresh on the bottom of the walls, but the weathering increases significantly to the natural surface. The bedrock shows an orthogonal joint system enabling the so‐called ”Wollsackverwitterung“. Mapping of the joints followed by a kinematic analysis of the quarry wall by DIPS (Rocscience) indicates the slope failure to be of a planar sliding type on a medium‐steep dipping plane. As the contributing factor for the slide, weathering along the plane has to be considered. Thereby the destruction of rock bridges downgrades the overall shear strength. A stability analysis based on the reconstructed block geometry and the determined shear parameters verifies the instability of the block. For today's situation, the kinematic analysis detects some critical intersections of joints being able to generate slide wedges.
Prospective relationship between objectively measured light physical activity and depressive symptoms in later life
Authors: Ku Po‐Wen , Steptoe Andrew , Liao Yung , Sun Wen‐Jung , Chen Li‐Jung
Published: February 2017

Background

The use of self‐report measures of physical activity is a serious methodological weakness in many studies of physical activity and depressive symptoms. It is still equivocal whether light physical activity protects older adults from depressive symptoms.

Objective

This study aimed to explore whether objectively measured light physical activity, independent of sedentary and moderate‐to‐vigorous activity, is associated with a reduced risk of subsequent depressive symptoms in older adults.

Methods

This was a 2‐year prospective cohort study. A total of 285 community‐dwelling older adults aged 65 years or older were interviewed in 2012. A second wave of assessment was carried out in 2014 involving 274 (96.1%) participants. Time spent in physical activity at different intensities was assessed using triaxial accelerometers. Depressive symptoms were measured using the 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale. Negative binomial regression models with adjustment for baseline depressive symptoms, accelerometer wear time, socio‐demographic variables, lifestyle behaviors, and chronic disease conditions were conducted.

Results

Time spent in moderate‐to‐vigorous and light physical activities were both inversely related to depressive symptoms at follow‐up. Sedentary time was associated with an increased risk of subsequent depressive symptoms. When sedentary or moderate‐to‐vigorous activity were included in the multivariable‐adjusted regression models with light physical activity simultaneously, only light physical activity remained significant. Sensitivity analyses for assessing confounding and reverse causation provided further support for the stability of these findings.

Conclusion

Light physical activity, independent of sedentary and moderate‐to‐vigorous activity, is associated with a reduced risk of subsequent depressive symptoms in later life. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A systematic review of intervention approaches for driving cessation in older adults
Authors: Rapoport Mark J. , Cameron Duncan H. , Sanford Sarah , Naglie Gary ,   on behalf of the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging Driving and Dementia Team
Published: February 2017

Objective

The aim of this project was to review the literature on interventions aimed at facilitating driving cessation in older adults, with and without dementia.

Methods

A literature search was performed using the databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central, Embase, and PsycINFO, from 1994 to September 2014. Two independent raters screened articles for inclusion and extracted study data. We only included articles if they directly addressed the topic of intervention approaches to facilitate the process of driving cessation in older adults or to support the adaptation of older adults who have had to stop driving and included a control group.

Results

Of an initial 477 unique records identified, 111 pertained to driving cessation in older adults, and only three articles were controlled trials of intervention approaches related to driving cessation. One article described an intervention for retired drivers with dementia, while another was aimed at caregivers of drivers with dementia, and the third included retired and retiring drivers without dementia. Outcomes such as reduced depressive symptoms, increased trips out of home, and efficacy in dealing with the driving cessation process were positive, but the specific outcome measures and magnitude of effects varied across studies.

Conclusions

Although the results summarized in this review point toward potentially promising effects of interventions for facilitating driving cessation in older adults, these findings must be interpreted with caution given the significant methodological limitations of the studies, including small samples, participant attrition, lack of blinding, and non‐validated outcome measures. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TRAF3 delays cyst formation induced by NF‐κB signaling
Authors: Sun Liping , Hu Chaofeng , Zhang Xinzhou
Published: February 2017

This study aims to investigate the effects of TNF receptors associated factor 3 (TRAF3) on the signaling pathway and expression of downstream products of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) in the epithelial cells of renal ducts in individuals with polycystic kidney disease (PKD). We observe the TRAF3 genic overexpression of the epithelial cells, which form a tubular branch structure, in polycystic kidneys and to explore the protective effect of TRAF3 on the cystogenesis and progression of PKD. Western blotting analysis was conducted to examine the signaling changes of NF‐κB in PKD the epithelial cells and TRAF3 transgenic PKD epithelial cells. Changes in the downstream apoptosis factor and cell proliferation in PKD epithelial cells and TRAF3 transgenic PKD epithelial cells were detected. A three‐dimensional matrigel culture experiment was performed to examine abnormal tubulomorphogenesis in vitro. The overexpression of TRAF3 significantly inhibited the signaling pathway of NF‐κB in the PKD epithelial cells, downregulated the expression of downstream factors Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐xl, and significantly decreased cystic epithelial cell proliferation. Additional branch structures were observed in the PKD epithelial cells with a three‐dimensional culture compared to wildtype cells. TRAF3 may likely induce apoptosis and resistance to proliferation and may be a new target to inhibit the cyst formation in PKD by regulating the NF‐κB signaling pathway Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐xl activity. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 69(3):170–178, 2017
Study of the dual effect of gamma irradiation and strontium substitution on bioactivity, cytotoxicity, and antimicrobial properties of 45S5 bioglass
Authors: Farag M. M. , Abd‐Allah W. M. , Ahmed Hanaa Y. A.
Published: February 2017

In this work, we studied simultaneous effect of gamma irradiation and SrO substitution for Na2O on bioactivity, cytotoxicity and antimicrobial properties of 45S5 glass. Gamma irradiation was mainly introduced in this work as an effective sterilizing technique, improvement of bulk properties and surface modification of glass. Where, gamma irradiation is considered a modifier for glass network due to generation of defects resulted from this irradiation. Furthermore, SrO was introduced into the glass structure in place of Na2O in order to reduce a probable toxic effect of Na2O for surrounding tissue by decreasing its percentage. Where, Sr2+ is characterized by its antibacterial properties, as well as, it induces formation of bone tissue and inhibits its resorption. The cell viability was studied for selected samples using Vero cells. As well as, antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus pneumonia, and Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. The results showed that substitution of Na2O by SrO in glass composition decreased the glass dissolution in SBF. However, the glass dissolution increased after irradiation of such glass due to generation of nonbridgingoxygens (NBOs) throughout glass network by gamma irradiation, and this effect was more obvious for Sr‐contained glass. On the other hand, two selected Sr‐containing glasses (gamma irradiated at 0 and 25 kGy) showed a good ability to stimulate cell proliferation of normal fibroblast cells, as well as, they represented a potential ability to inhibit the growth of or kill bacteria, which is considered an important issue commonly found in a clinical situation. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 1646–1655, 2017.
In vitro evaluation of the biological compatibility and antibacterial activity of a bone substitute material consisting of silver‐doped hydroxyapatite and Bio‐Oss®
Authors: Gong Jingjue , Yang Lei , He Qi , Jiao Ting
Published: February 2017

This study evaluated biological compatibility and antibacterial activity of a bone substitute material consisting of silver‐doped hydroxyapatite (AgHA) and Bio‐Oss® with different mixture ratios in vitro and investigated its antibacterial mechanism. AgHA was synthesized by a chemical precipitation method. After characterization, AgHA was mixed with Bio‐Oss® at three ratios: 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4 by weight. Then, Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) and Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) were used to test the antibacterial activity of the mixture. Human periodontal ligament fibroblasts and rat bone marrow stromal cells were selected for cytocompatibility experiments. According to results, the peak value of the size of the AgHA was concentrated in the 100–200 nm range, and AgHA particles consisted of short rods. It was confirmed that the structure of AgHA was similar to that of standard hydroxyapatite. All three mixture ratios exhibited obvious antimicrobial properties, which increased with increasing AgHA. According to the effects on the expression of bacterial virulence genes, groups 1:1 and 1:2 both negatively affected Pg and Fn more significantly than group 1:4. Cytotoxicity experiments showed that 1:1 caused little cytotoxicity, while groups 1:2 and 1:4 exerted no significant cytotoxicity. Considering its biological compatibility and antibacterial activity, group 1:2 is the most recommended. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 410–420, 2018.
Effect of different sustained bone morphogenetic protein‐2 release kinetics on bone formation in poly(propylene fumarate) scaffolds
Authors: Olthof Maurits G. L. , Kempen Diederik H. R. , Herrick James L. , Yaszemski Michael J. , Dhert Wouter J. A. , Lu Lichun
Published: February 2017

To investigate the effect of sustained bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) release kinetics on bone formation in poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF) scaffolds, different poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres were used as delivery vehicles. All PPF scaffolds had the same 75% porous structure, while the degradation rate of the embedded PLGA microspheres was changed to tailor BMP‐2 release by varying the lactic‐to‐glycolic acid (L:G) ratio in the copolymer. Four PLGA microsphere formulations with 50/50, 65/35, 75/25, and 85/15 L:G ratios and varying in vivo degradation rates were fabricated. The in vitro and in vivo BMP‐2 release kinetics were determined by analyzing radiolabeled 125I‐BMP‐2. Biological activity of released BMP‐2 was tested using a W20‐17 cell culture model in vitro and a subcutaneous rat model in vivo. Corresponding outcome parameters were defined as capacity to increase the in vitro AP activity in weekly consecutive cell cultures over 14 weeks and the in vivo bone formation after 7 and 14 weeks. The PLGA/PPF composites showed similar biological activity and BMP‐2 release profiles in vitro. In vivo, PPF/PLGA 85:15 composite released significantly less BMP‐2 per time point in the first weeks. Micro‐CT and histological analysis after 7 and 14 weeks of implantation showed bone formation, which significantly increased over time for all composites. No significant differences were seen between the composites. Overall, the results of this study show that small differences in BMP‐2 sustained release had no significant effect on BMP‐2 osteogenic efficacy in PPF/PLGA composites. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 477–487, 2018.
Irisin plays a pivotal role to protect the heart against ischemia and reperfusion injury
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhao Yu Tina , Zhang Shouyan , Dubielecka Patrycja M , Du Jianfeng , Yano Naohiro , Chin Y. Eugene , Zhuang Shougang , Qin Gangjian , Zhao Ting C
Published: February 2017

Irisin, a newly identified hormone, is critical to modulating body metabolism, thermogenesis and reducing oxidative stresses. However, whether irisin protects the heart against myocardial ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury remains unknown. In this study, we determine the effect of irisin on myocardial I/R injury in the Langendorff perfused heart and cultured myocytes. Adult C57/BL6 mice were treated with irisin (100 mg/kg) or vehicle for 30 min to elicit preconditioning. The isolated hearts were subjected to 30 min ischemia followed by 30 min reperfusion. Left ventricular function was measured and infarction size were determined using by tetrazolium staining. Western blot was employed to determine myocardial SOD‐1, active‐caspase 3, annexin V, p38, and phospho‐p38. H9c2 cardiomyoblasts were exposed to hypoxia and reoxygenation for assessment of the effects of irisin on mitochondrial respiration and mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). Irisin treatment produced remarkable improvements in ventricular functional recovery, as evident by the increase in RPP and attenuation in LVEDP. As compared to the vehicle treatment, irisin resulted in a marked reduction of myocardial infarct size. Notably, irisin treatment increased SOD‐1 and p38 phosphorylation, but suppressed levels of active‐caspase 3, cleaved PARP, and annexin V. In cardiomyoblasts exposed to hypoxia/reoxygenation, irisin treatment significantly attenuated hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R), as indicated by the reduction of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage and apoptotic cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, irisin treatments suppressed the opening of mPTP, mitochondrial swelling, and protected mitochondria function. Our results indicate that irisin serves as a novel approach to eliciting cardioprotection, which is associated with the improvement of mitochondrial function.
Antimicrobial effect, frictional resistance, and surface roughness of stainless steel orthodontic brackets coated with nanofilms of silver and titanium oxide: a preliminary study
Authors: Ghasemi Tania , Arash Valiollah , Rabiee Sayed Mahmood , Rajabnia Ramazan , Pourzare Amirhosein , Rakhshan Vahid
Published: February 2017

Nano‐silver and nano‐titanium oxide films can be coated over brackets in order to reduce bacterial aggregation and friction. However, their antimicrobial efficacy, surface roughness, and frictional resistance are not assessed before.

Fifty‐five stainless‐steel brackets were divided into 5 groups of 11 brackets each: uncoated brackets, brackets coated with 60 µm silver, 100 µm silver, 60 µm titanium, and 100 µm titanium. Coating was performed using physical vapor deposition method. For friction test, three brackets from each group were randomly selected and tested. For scanning electron microscopy and atomic‐force microscopy assessments, one and one brackets were selected from each group. For antibacterial assessment, six brackets were selected from each group. Of them, three were immediately subjected to direct contact with S. mutans. Colonies were counted 3, 6, 24, and 48 h of contact. The other three were stored in water for 3 months. Then were subjected to a similar direct contact test. Results pertaining to both subgroups were combined. Groups were compared statistically. Mean (SD) friction values of the groups 'control, silver‐60, silver‐100, titanium‐60, and titanium‐100' were 0.55 ± 0.14, 0.77 ± 0.08, 0.82 ± 0.11, 1.52 ± 0.24, and 1.57 ± 0.41 N, respectively (p = .0004, Kruskal–Wallis). Titanium frictions were significantly greater than control (p < .05), but silver groups were not (p > .05, Dunn). In the uncoated group, colony count increased exponentially within 48 h. The coated groups showed significant reductions in colony count (p < .05, two‐way‐repeated‐measures ANOVA). In conclusions, all four explained coatings reduce surface roughness and bacterial growth. Nano‐titanium films are not suitable for friction reduction. Nano‐silver results were not conclusive and need future larger studies.
mRNA destabilization improves glycemic responsiveness of transcriptionally regulated hepatic insulin gene therapy in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Thulé Peter M. , Lin Yulin , Jia Dingwu , Olson Darin E. , Tang Shiue‐Cheng , Sambanis Athanassios
Published: February 2017

Background

Hepatic insulin gene therapy (HIGT) employing a glucose and insulin sensitive promoter to direct insulin transcription can lower blood sugars within 2 h of an intraperitoneal glucose challenge. However, post‐challenge blood sugars frequently decline to below baseline. We hypothesize that this ‘over‐shoot’ hypoglycemia results from sustained translation of long‐lived transgene message, and that reducing pro‐insulin message half‐life will ameliorate post‐challenge hypoglycemia.

Methods

We compared pro‐insulin message content and insulin secretion from primary rat hepatocytes expressing insulin from either a standard construct (2xfur), or a construct producing a destabilized pro‐insulin message (InsTail), following exposure to stimulating or inhibitory conditions.

Results

Hepatocytes transduced with a 2xfur construct accumulated pro‐insulin message, and exhibited increased insulin secretion, under conditions that both inhibit or stimulate transcription. By contrast, pro‐insulin message content remained stable in InsTail expressing cells, and insulin secretion increased less than 2xfur during prolonged stimulation. During transitions from stimulatory to inhibitory conditions, or vice versa, amounts of pro‐insulin message changed more rapidly in InsTail expressing cells than 2xfur expressing cells. Importantly, insulin secretion increased during the transition from stimulation to inhibition in 2xfur expressing cells, although it remained unchanged in InsTail expressing cells. Use of the InsTail destabilized insulin message tended to more rapidly reduce glucose induced glycemic excursions, and limit post‐load hypoglycemia in STZ‐diabetic mice in vivo.

Conclusions

The data obtained in the present study suggest that combining transcriptional and post‐transcriptional regulatory strategies may reduce undesirable glycemic excursion in models of HIGT.
Tentacle structure in freshwater bryozoans
Authors: Tamberg Yuta , Shunatova Natalia
Published: February 2017

Tentacles are the main food‐gathering organs of bryozoans. The most common design is a hollow tube of extracellular matrix (ECM), covered with ten columns of epithelial cells on the outside, and a coelothelium on the inside. Nerves follow the ECM, going between the bases of some epidermal cells. The tentacle musculature includes two bundles formed by myoepithelial cells of the coelothelium. The tentacles of freshwater (phylactolaemate) bryozoans, however, differ somewhat in structure from those of marine bryozoans. Here, we describe the tentacles of three species of phylactolaemates, comparing them to gymnolaemates and stenolaemates. Phylactolaemate tentacles tend to be longer, and with more voluminous coeloms. The composition of the frontal cell row and the number of frontal nerves is variable in freshwater bryozoans, but constant in marine groups. Abfrontal cells form a continuous row in Phylactolaemata, but occur intermittently in other two classes. Phylactolaemata lack the microvillar cuticle reported in Gymnolaemata. Abfrontal sensory tufts are always composed of pairs of mono‐ and/or biciliated cells. This arrangement differs from individual abfrontal ciliary cells of other bryozoans: monociliated in Stenolaemata and monociliated and multiciliated ones in Gymnolaemata. In all three groups, however, ciliated abfrontal cells probably serve as mechanoreceptors. We confirm previously described phylactolemate traits: an unusual arrangement of two‐layered coelothelium lining the lateral sides of the tentacle and oral slits in the intertentacular membrane. As previously reported, tentacle movements involved in feeding differ between bryozoan groups, with phylactolaemates tending to have slower movements than both gymnolaemates and stenolaemates, and a narrower behavioral repertoire than gymnolaemates. The morphological and ultrastructural differences between the freshwater species we studied and marine bryozoans may be related to these functional differences. Muscle organization, tentacle and coelom size, and degree of confluence between tentacle and lophophore coeloms probably account for much of the observed behavioral variability.
Spectrophotometric versus NIR‐MIR assessments of cowpea pods for discriminating the impact of freezing
Authors: Machado Nelson , Domínguez‐Perles Raúl , Ramos Ana , Rosa Eduardo AS , Barros Ana IRNA
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Freezing represents an important storage method for vegetal foodstuffs, such as cowpea pods, and thus the impact of this process on the chemical composition of these matrices arises as a prominent issue. In this sense, the phytochemical contents in frozen cowpea pods (i.e. at 6 and 9 months) have been compared with fresh cowpea pods material, with the samples being concomitantly assessed by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), both mid‐infrared (MIR) and near infrared (NIR), aiming to evaluate the potential of these techniques as a rapid tool for the traceability of these matrices.

RESULTS

A decrease in phytochemical contents during freezing was observed, allowing the classification of samples according to the freezing period based on such variations. Also, MIR and NIR allowed discrimination of samples: the use of the first derivative demonstrated a better performance for this purpose, whereas the use of the normalized spectra gave the best correlations between the spectra and specific contents. In both cases, NIR displayed the best performance.

CONCLUSION

Freezing of cowpea pods leads to a decrease of phytochemical contents, which can be monitored by FTIR spectroscopy, both within the MIR and NIR ranges, whereas the use of this technique, in tandem with chemometrics, constitutes a suitable methodology for the traceability of these matrices. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Impaired intracortical transmission in G2019S leucine rich‐repeat kinase Parkinson patients
Authors: Ponzo Viviana , Di Lorenzo Francesco , Brusa Livia , Schirinzi Tommaso , Battistini Stefania , Ricci Claudia , Sambucci Manolo , Caltagirone Carlo , Koch Giacomo
Published: February 2017

Objectives: A mutation in leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 is the most common cause of hereditary Parkinson's disease (PD), yet the neural mechanisms and the circuitry potentially involved are poorly understood.

Methods: We used different transcranial magnetic stimulation protocols to explore in the primary motor cortex the activity of intracortical circuits and cortical plasticity (long‐term potentiation) in patients with the G2019S leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 gene mutation when compared with idiopathic PD patients and age‐matched healthy subjects. Paired pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to investigate short intracortical inhibition and facilitation and short afferent inhibition. Intermittent theta burst stimulation, a form of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, was used to test long‐term potentiation‐like cortical plasticity. Leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 and idiopathic PD were tested both in ON and in OFF l‐dopa therapy.

Results: When compared with idiopathic PD and healthy subjects, leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 PD patients showed a remarkable reduction of short intracortical inhibition in both ON and in OFF l‐dopa therapy. This reduction was paralleled by an increase of intracortical facilitation in OFF l‐dopa therapy. Leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 PD showed abnormal long‐term potentiation‐like cortical plasticity in ON l‐dopa therapy.

Discussion: The motor cortex in leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 mutated PD patients is strongly disinhibited and hyperexcitable. These abnormalities could be a result of an impairment of inhibitory (gamma‐Aminobutyric acid) transmission eventually related to altered neurotransmitter release. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Study of E/Z isomerization of (arylamino)methylidenefuran‐2(3H)‐ones by 1H, 13C, 15N spectroscopy and DFT calculations in different solvents
Authors: Osipov Alexander K. , Anis'kov Alexander A. , Grinev Vyacheslav S. , Yegorova Alevtina Yu.
Published: February 2017

The structure and configuration of the series of previously unknown arylaminomethylidenefuran‐2(3H)‐ones have been determined in solution by 1H, 13C, 15N nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy including two‐dimensional experiments such as 1H─1H COSY, dqCOSY, 1H─13C HSQC, 1H─13C HMBC. It was found that synthesized substances exist as an equilibrium mixture of E‐ and Z‐enamines in solution. It was established on the basis of density functional theory calculations that the exchange between the two push–pull enamines is a simple rotation around an exocyclic partial double bond that depends on the effect of the solvents. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical function and muscle strength in sporadic inclusion body myositis
Authors: Jørgensen Anders N. , Aagaard Per , Nielsen Jakob L. , Christiansen Mette , Hvid Lars G. , Frandsen Ulrik , Diederichsen Louise P.
Published: February 2017

Introduction: In this study, self‐reported physical function, functional capacity, and isolated muscle function were investigated in sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM) patients. Methods: The 36‐item Short Form (SF‐36) Health Survey and 2‐min walk test (2MWT), timed up & go test (TUG), and 30‐s chair stand performance were evaluated. In addition, patients were tested for knee extensor muscle strength (isokinetic dynamometer) and leg extension power (Nottingham power rig). Results: TUG performance was the strongest predictor of self‐reported physical function (r2 = 0.56, P < 0.05). Knee extension strength and between‐limb strength asymmetry were the strongest multi‐regression indicators of TUG performance (r2 = 0.51, P < 0.05). Strength asymmetry showed the strongest single‐factor (negative) association with 2MWT performance (r2 = 0.49, P < 0.05). Discussion: TUG assessment appears to sensitively predict self‐perceived physical function in sIBM patients. Notably, between‐limb asymmetry in lower limb muscle strength had a substantial negative impact on motor tasks involving gait function. Muscle Nerve 56: E50–E58, 2017