bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zinc mitigates renal ischemia‐reperfusion injury in rats by modulating oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy
Authors: Hadj Abdallah Najet , Baulies Anna , Bouhlel Ahlem , Bejaoui Mohamed , Zaouali Mohamed A. , Ben Mimouna Safa , Messaoudi Imed , Fernandez‐Checa José C. , García Ruiz Carmen , Ben Abdennebi Hassen
Published: May 2018

Oxidative stress is a major factor involved in the pathogenesis of renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Exogenous zinc (Zn) was suggested as a potent antioxidant; however, the mechanism by which it strengthens the organ resistance against the effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is not yet investigated. The present study aims to determine whether acute zinc chloride (ZnCl2) administration could attenuate endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, autophagy, and inflammation after renal I/R. Rats were subjected to either sham operation (Sham group, n = 6), or 1 hr of bilateral ischemia followed by 2 hr of reperfusion (I/R groups, n = 6), or they received ZnCl2 orally 24 hr and 30 min before ischemia (ZnCl2 group, n = 6). Rats were subjected to 1 hr of bilateral renal ischemia followed by 2 hr of reperfusion (I/R group, n = 6). Our results showed that ZnCl2 enhances renal function and reduces cytolysis (p < 0,05). In addition, it increased significantly the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPX) and the level of GSH in comparison to I/R (p < 0,05). Interestingly, ZnCl2 treatment resulted in significant decreased ER stress, as reflected by GRP78, ATF‐6,p‐eIF‐2α, XPB‐1, and CHOP downregulaion. Rats undergoing ZnCl2 treatment demonstrated a low expression of autophagy parameters (Beclin‐1 and LAMP‐2), which was correlated with low induction of apoptosis (caspase‐9, caspase‐3, and p‐JNK), and reduction of inflammation (IL‐1ß, IL‐6, and MCP‐1) (p < 0,05). In conclusion, we demonstrated the potential effect of Zn supplementation to modulate ER pathway and autophagic process after I/R.
Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Fluticasone Furoate/Umeclidinium/Vilanterol via a Single Inhaler in Patients with COPD
Authors: Mehta Rashmi , Pefani Eleni , Beerahee Misba , Brealey Noushin , Barnacle Helen , Birk Ruby , Zhu Chang‐Qing , Lipson David A.
Published: May 2018

A population pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted from a subset of samples obtained from the Lung Function and Quality of Life Assessment in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease with Closed Triple Therapy trial to characterize the pharmacokinetics of fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, and vilanterol in patients with symptomatic COPD following treatment with fluticason furoate‐umeclidinium‐vilanterol combined in a single inhaler. This was a randomized, double‐blind, double‐dummy study comparing 24 weeks of once‐daily triple therapy (fluticason furoate‐umeclidinium‐vilanterol, 100 μg/62.5 μg/25 μg; Ellipta inhaler) with twice‐daily dual therapy (budesonide/formoterol 400 μg/12 μg; Turbuhaler). The analyses were conducted in a subset of 74 patients who received fluticason furoate‐umeclidinium‐vilanterol and provided serial or sparse samples. Monte Carlo simulations and a model‐based estimation approach both indicated that systemic drug concentrations of fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, and vilanterol after administration of fluticason furoate‐umeclidinium‐vilanterol triple combination therapy from a single inhaler were within the ranges observed following administration of these drugs as monotherapy (fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, and vilanterol) or as dual‐combination therapy (fluticasone furoate/vilanterol or umeclidinium/vilanterol).
Low‐load resistance exercise during inactivity is associated with greater fibre area and satellite cell expression in older skeletal muscle
Authors: Moore Daniel R. , Kelly Ryan P. , Devries Michaela C. , Churchward‐Venne Tyler A. , Phillips Stuart M. , Parise Gianni , Johnston Adam P.
Published: May 2018

Background

Age‐related sarcopenia is accelerated by physical inactivity. Low‐load resistance exercise (LLRE) counters inactivity‐induced muscle atrophy in older adults, but changes in muscle fibre morphology are unstudied. We aimed to determine the impact of LLRE during short‐term inactivity (step‐reduction) on muscle fibre size and capillarity as well as satellite cell (SC) content in older skeletal muscle.

Methods

Fourteen older (~71 years) male adults underwent 14 days of step reduction (<1500 steps/day) while performing six sessions of LLRE (~30% maximal strength) with one leg (SR + EX) while the contralateral leg served as an untrained control (SR). Seven healthy ambulatory age‐matched male adults (~69 years) served as a comparator group (COM). Muscle biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis after 14 days, and immunohistochemical analysis was performed to determine muscle fibre cross‐sectional area (CSA), myonuclear content, SC content (PAX7+ cells), and total (C:F) and fibre type‐specific (C:Fi) capillary‐to‐fibre ratios.

Results

Type I and II fibre CSA was greater in SR + EX compared with SR. Whereas there were no differences across fibre types between SR + EX and CON, type II fibre CSA was significantly lower in SR compared with COM. Type II myonuclear domain was greater in SR + EX compared with COM and SR. Pax7+ cells associated with type I and II fibres were lower in SR compared with SR + EX. Type II PAX7+ cells were also lower in SR compared with COM with a similar trend for type I fibres. There were trends for a lower C:Fi in SR compared with SR + EX for both fibre types with no differences for each compared with COM.

Conclusions

Minimal LLRE during a period of decreased physical activity is associated with greater muscle fibre CSA, SC content, and capillarization. These results support the use of LLRE as an effective countermeasure to inactivity‐induced alterations in muscle morphology with age.
Nesting environment may drive variation in eggshell structure and egg characteristics in the Testudinata
Authors: Deeming D. Charles
Published: May 2018

Testudines exhibit considerable variation in the degree of eggshell calcification, which affects eggshell conductance, water physiology of the embryos, and calcium metabolism of embryos. However, the underlying reason for different shell types has not been explored. Phylogenetically controlled analyses examined relationships between egg size, shell mass, and clutch size in ∼200 turtle species from a range of body sizes and assigned by family as laying either rigid‐ or pliable‐shelled eggs. Shell type affected egg breadth relative to pelvic dimensions, egg mass, and relative shell mass but did not affect size, mass, or total shell mass of the clutch. These results suggest that calcium availability may be a function of body size and the type of shell may reflect in part the interplay between clutch size and egg size. It was further concluded that the eggshell probably evolved as a means of physical protection. Differences in shell calcification may not primarily reflect reproductive parameters but rather correlate with the acidity of a species’ nesting environment. Low pH environments may have thicker calcareous layer to counteract the erosion caused by the soil and maintain the integrity of the physical barrier. Limited calcium availability may constrain clutch size. More neutral nesting substrates expose eggshells to less erosion so calcification per egg can be reduced and this allows larger clutch sizes. This pattern is also reflected in thick, calcified crocodilian eggs. Further research is needed to test whether eggshell calcification in the testudines correlates with nest pH in order to verify this relationship.
Slugs (Arionidae) benefit from nocturnal artificial illumination
Authors: van Grunsven Roy H. A. , Jähnichen David , Grubisic Maja , Hölker Franz
Published: May 2018

Artificial illumination increases around the globe and this has been found to affect many groups of organisms and ecosystems. By manipulating nocturnal illumination using one large experimental field site with 24 streetlights and one dark control, we assessed the impact of artificial illumination on slugs over a period of 4 years. The number of slugs, primarily Arionidae, increased strongly in the illuminated site but not on the dark site. There are several nonexclusive explanations for this effect, including reduced predation and increased food quality in the form of carcasses of insects attracted by the light. As slugs play an important role in ecosystems and are also important pest species, the increase of slugs under artificial illumination cannot only affect ecosystem functioning but also have important economic consequences.
Colonization of Helicobacter pylori in the gastric cardia: A comparison between the UFT300 and CLO tests
Authors: Liao Po‐Hao , Lin Yu‐Chun , Chu Cheng‐Hsin , Shih Shou‐Chuan , Liou Tai‐Cherng
Published: May 2018

Background and aim

To assess the detection rates of Helicobacter pylori colonization in the gastric cardia with two commercial kits of rapid urease test: 5 min UFT300 and 24 h CLO test in H. pylori‐infected patients.

Methods

Eighty consecutive dyspeptic patients with confirmed H. pylori infection (serology and 13C‐urea breath test) were prospectively studied. During endoscopy, tissue samples using separate biopsy forceps from the cardia were taken for the UFT300 and CLO tests. The results of the UFT300 were read at 5 and 30 min, and those of the CLO test were read at 24 h.

Results

Of 80 enrolled patients, 17 (21.3%) and 44 (55%) had positive findings with the UFT300 at 5 and 30 min, respectively, while 72 (90%) had positive findings with the CLO test at 24 h. The CLO test is significantly more sensitive than the UFT300 in evaluating H. pylori status in the cardia. On comparing patients with and without carditis, the detection rates of the CLO test were similar (91.1% vs 88.6%; P = 0.724), and the rates of the UFT300 were also similar at 5 and 30 min.

Conclusions

The rate of H. pylori colonization in the gastric cardia was 90% in H. pylori‐infected patients detected with the CLO test. Although the UFT300 provides a more rapid reading of H. pylori status, the diagnostic yield of the CLO test is much higher than that of the UFT300. However, a positive result of the UFT300 may indicate a higher bacterial load in the cardia, which warrants a more effective therapeutic strategy.
Obesity as an immune-modifying factor in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Canter Robert J , Le Catherine T , Beerthuijzen Johanna M T , Murphy William J
Published: May 2018

Immunotherapy has achieved breakthrough status in many advanced stage malignancies and is rapidly becoming the fourth arm of cancer treatment. Although cancer immunotherapy has generated significant excitement because of the potential for complete and sometimes durable responses, there is also the potential for severe and occasionally life-threatening toxicities, including cytokine release syndrome and severe autoimmunity. A large body of work also points to a “metainflammatory” state in obesity associated with impairment of immune responses. Because immune checkpoint blockade (and other cancer immunotherapies) have altered the landscape of immunotherapy in cancer, it is important to understand how immune responses are shaped by obesity and how obesity may modify both immunotherapy responses and potential toxicities.

Review on the impact of obesity on inflammation and immune homeostasis and what the implications of these perturbations are for cancer immunotherapy.
Systematic Review of Hypersensitivity to Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Christian Vikram J. , Tallar Matthew , Walia Cassandra L. S. , Sieracki Rita , Goday Praveen S.
Published: May 2018

Hypersensitivity to the components of parenteral nutrition (PN) is a rare but important complication of PN. We performed a systematic review of hypersensitivity to PN to enable us to build an approach to the individual patient who presents with PN hypersensitivity. A systematic literature search was performed in Ovid Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science using terms for “hypersensitivity” AND “parenteral nutrition” and relevant synonyms. A total of 28 articles were analyzed, and 33 hypersensitivities to PN or components of PN were reported in these 28 articles. Reports of hypersensitivity and subsequent conclusions were based on the clinical observations made by each reporting author. These reactions were evenly split between pediatric and adult patients. Hypersensitivity to PN occurred on day of starting PN in 60.6% patients and after that time in 36.3% patients (range: 1–21 days). Of the hypersensitivities that occurred on day 1 of PN, 70% occurred in the first 30 minutes of initiation of PN. Cutaneous manifestations were the most common, followed by anaphylaxis, respiratory symptoms, and hemodynamic instability. The components most frequently identified as allergens were intravenous fat emulsion (48.4%), multivitamin solution (33.3%), and amino acid solution (9%). Based on this review, an algorithm was created to guide the practitioner on management of PN after the occurrence of such a reaction.
Clinical Impact of Muscle Quantity and Quality in Colorectal Cancer Patients: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Okugawa Yoshinaga , Toiyama Yuji , Yamamoto Akira , Shigemori Tsunehiko , Yin Chengzeng , Narumi Aya , Omura Yusuke , Ide Shozo , Kitajima Takahito , Fujikawa Hiroyuki , Yasuda Hiromi , Hiro Junichiro , Yoshiyama Shigeyuki , Kobayashi Minako , Araki Toshimitsu , McMillan Donald C. , Miki Chikao , Kusunoki Masato
Published: May 2018

Background

Sarcopenia is defined as the loss of skeletal muscle mass, accompanied by decreased muscle strength, and consists of myopenia and myosteatosis. Recent evidence has suggested the predictive value of sarcopenia for the risk of perioperative and oncological outcomes in various malignancies. The aim of this study was to clarify the clinical impact of myopenia and myosteatosis in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients.

Methods

We analyzed the preoperative psoas muscle mass index and intramuscular adipose tissue content using preoperative computed tomography images from 308 CRC patients using statistical methods.

Results

Despite no significant correlation between myosteatosis and prognosis, preoperative myopenia significantly correlated with clinicopathological factors for disease development, including advanced tumor depth (P = 0.009), presence of lymphatic vessel invasion (P = 0.006), distant metastasis (P = 0.0007), and advanced stage classification (P = 0.013). Presence of preoperative myopenia was an independent prognostic factor for both cancer‐specific survival (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.75, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5–5.05, P = 0.001) and disease‐free survival (HR: 3.15, 95% CI: 1.8–5.51, P = 0.0001), and was an independent risk factor for postoperative infectious complications in CRC patients (odds ratio: 2.03, 95% CI:1.17–3.55, P = 0.013). Furthermore, these findings were successfully validated using propensity score matching analysis.

Conclusions

Preoperative myopenia could be useful for perioperative management, and quantification of preoperative skeletal muscle mass could identify patients as a high risk for perioperative and oncological outcomes in CRC patients.
Autophagy May Protect Against Parenteral Nutrition‐Associated Liver Disease by Suppressing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Zhang Tian , Yan Junkai , Wang Nan , Dai Lina , Wang Ying , Cai Wei
Published: May 2018

Background

The objectives of this study were to address the role of autophagy in the pathogenesis of parenteral nutrition (PN)‐associated liver disease (PNALD) and its possible mechanism in vivo.

Methods

Five‐week‐old male Sprague Dawley rats were fed Shoobree chow (Xietong Organism, Jiangsu, China) and administered intravenous 0.9% saline (sham group), PN (PN group), PN plus rapamycin (1 mg/kg; PN + Rapa group), or rapamycin (Rapa group) for 7 days. Before and after study, body weight, biochemical indicators, hepatic histology, level of autophagy, hepatocyte apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress indicators including binding immunoglobulin protein (BIP), spliced X‐box‐binding protein‐1 (sXBP1), and CCAAT‐enhancer‐binding protein homologous protein (CHOP) were measured.

Results

Autophagy was suppressed in the PNALD model, which was demonstrated by less light chain 3 fluorescence (LC3) puncta and lower LC3II expression. Rapamycin effectively induced hepatic autophagy in PN rats. The PN + Rapa group presented improved hepatic function, decreased pathology scores, and less steatosis than the PN group. In addition, rapamycin treatment decreased terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling and cleaved‐caspase 3 expression, indicating a lower level of hepatocyte apoptosis. Compared with the PN group, the PN + Rapa group had lower levels of ROS and reduced expression of ER stress‐related protein markers, such as BIP, sXBP1 and CHOP.

Conclusions

Autophagy was suppressed in the PNALD model. Rapamycin treatment induced autophagy and protected against PNALD, possibly by suppressing ROS‐induced ER stress.
Trans‐cinnamic aldehyde inhibits Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans‐induced inflammation in THP‐1–derived macrophages via autophagy activation
Authors: Chung Jin , Kim Sumi , Lee Hyun Ah , Park Mi Hee , Kim Seyeon , Song Yu Ri , Na Hee Sam
Published: May 2018

Background

Inflammation is an essential response against bacterial infection as a host defense mechanism, which can lead to tissue damage. Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) is major pathogen for aggressive periodontitis characterized by rapid destruction of periodontal tissue surrounding teeth. Trans‐cinnamic aldehyde is a key bioactive compound of the cinnamon extracts, which has anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, antipyretic, antimicrobial, and anti‐cancer properties. The objective of the present study was to investigate the anti‐inflammatory effect of trans‐cinnamic aldehyde against Aa infection in human THP‐1 derived macrophages and on Aa‐induced periodontitis in mice.

Methods

THP‐1 cells were differentiated with phorbol 12‐mystristate 13‐acetate and were infected with live Aa. Trans‐cinnamic aldehyde was pretreated 30 minutes before the bacterial infection. Cytokine production was determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and protein expressions were detected by Western blot analysis. Autophagosome formation was detected by Cyto‐ID. Viable cell count was carried out to determine bacterial adhesion, internalization, and intracellular survival. Experimental periodontitis was induced by inoculating Aa orally to mice, and microcomputed tomography was used to evaluate bone loss.

Results

Pretreatment of trans‐cinnamic aldehyde significantly inhibited Aa‐stimulated release of tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin (IL)‐1β. Pretreatment of trans‐cinnamic aldehyde inhibited Aa‐induced expression of TLR signaling pathway as well as the phosphorylation of JNK, p38, and nuclear factor (NF)‐κB. Also, trans‐cinnamic aldehyde treatment downregulated the expression of pro‐IL‐1β, caspase‐1, and inflammasome components. Trans‐cinnamic aldehyde treatment significantly decreased intracellular survival of Aa. Moreover, the autophagosome formation and the expressions of autophagy markers including Beclin‐1, ATG5, and LC3 were increased. Finally, trans‐cinnamic aldehyde significantly inhibited bone loss in Aa‐induced mouse periodontitis.

Conclusions

Trans‐cinnamic aldehyde inhibited Aa‐stimulated expression of inflammatory responses and inhibited intracellular bacterial survival via autophagy activation. These results suggest that trans‐cinnamic aldehyde may serve as an anti‐inflammatory agent for aggressive periodontitis.
Association of perioperative transfusion with survival and recurrence after resection of gallbladder cancer: A 10‐institution study from the US Extrahepatic Biliary Malignancy Consortium
Authors: Lopez‐Aguiar Alexandra G. , Ethun Cecilia G. , McInnis Mia R. , Pawlik Timothy M. , Poultsides George , Tran Thuy , Idrees Kamran , Isom Chelsea A. , Fields Ryan C. , Krasnick Bradley A. , Weber Sharon M. , Salem Ahmed , Martin Robert C. G. , Scoggins Charles R. , Shen Perry , Mogal Harveshp D. , Schmidt Carl , Beal Eliza W. , Hatzaras Ioannis , Shenoy Rivfka , Cardona Kenneth , Maithel Shishir K.
Published: May 2018

Background and Objectives

Perioperative blood transfusion is associated with poor outcomes in several malignancies. Its effect in gallbladder cancer (GBC) is unknown.

Methods

All patients with GBC who underwent curative‐intent resection at 10‐institutions from 2000 to 2015 were included. The effect of blood transfusion on overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free (RFS) was evaluated.

Results

Of 262 patients with curative‐intent resection for GBC, 61 patients (23%) received blood transfusions. Radical cholecystectomy was the most common procedure (80%), but major hepatectomy was more frequent in the transfusion versus no‐transfusion group (13% vs 4%; P = 0.02). The transfusion group was less likely to have incidentally discovered disease (57% vs 74%) and receive adjuvant therapy (29% vs 48%), but more likely to have preoperative jaundice (23% vs 11%), T3/T4 tumors (60% vs 39%), LVI (71% vs 40%), PNI (71% vs 48%), and major complications (39% vs 12%) (all P < 0.05). Transfusion was associated with lower median OS compared to no‐transfusion (20 vs 32 mos; P < 0.001), which persisted on multivariable (MV) analysis (HR:1.9; 95%CI 1.1‐3.5; P = 0.035), controlling for comorbidities, serum albumin, INR, preoperative jaundice, major hepatectomy, incidental discovery, margin status, T‐Stage, LN status, and major complications. Median RFS of transfused patients was 13mo compared to 49mo for non‐transfused patients (P = 0.1). Transfusion, however, was an independent predictor of decreased RFS on MV analysis (HR:2.3; 95%CI 1.1‐5.1; P = 0.035).

Conclusions

Perioperative blood transfusion is associated with decreased OS and RFS after resection for GCC, accounting for other adverse factors. Transfusions should thus be administered with well‐defined protocols.
Assessing ecological and social outcomes of a bear‐proofing experiment
Authors: Johnson Heather E. , Lewis David L. , Lischka Stacy A. , Breck Stewart W.
Published: May 2018

Human‐black bear conflicts within urban environments have been increasing throughout North America, becoming a high priority management issue. The main factor influencing these conflicts is black bears foraging on anthropogenic foods within areas of human development, primarily on residential garbage. Wildlife professionals have advocated for increased bear‐proofing measures to decrease the accessibility of garbage to bears, but little research has been conducted to empirically test the effectiveness of this approach for reducing conflicts. Between 2011 and 2016, we conducted a before‐after‐control‐impact experiment in Durango, Colorado where we distributed 1,110 bear‐resistant trash containers, enhanced education, and increased enforcement to residents in 2 treatment areas, and monitored 2 paired control areas. We examined the ecological and social outcomes of this experiment, assessing whether bear‐resistant containers were effective at reducing conflicts; the level of public compliance (i.e., properly locking away garbage) needed to reduce conflicts; whether the effectiveness of bear‐resistant containers increased over time; and if the distribution of bear‐resistant containers changed residents’ attitudes about bear management, support for ordinances that require bear‐proofing, or perceptions of their future risk of garbage‐related conflicts. After the bear‐resistant containers were deployed, trash‐related conflicts (i.e., observations of strewn trash) were 60% lower in treatment areas than control areas, resident compliance with local wildlife ordinances (properly locking away trash) was 39% higher in treatment areas than control areas, and the effectiveness of the new containers was immediate. Conflicts declined as resident compliance with wildlife ordinances increased to approximately 60% (by using a bear‐resistant container or locking trash in a secure location), with minor additional declines in conflicts at higher levels of compliance. In addition to these ecological benefits, public mail surveys demonstrated that the deployment of bear‐resistant containers was associated with increases in the perceived quality of bear management and support for ordinances that require bear‐proofing, and declines in the perceived risk of future trash‐related conflicts. Our results validate efforts by wildlife professionals and municipalities to reduce black bear access to human foods, and should encourage other entities of the merits of bear‐proofing efforts for reducing human‐bear conflicts and improving public attitudes about bears and their management. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
New Method to Determine the Effect of Surface PEGylation on Cellular Uptake Efficiency of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles with AIEgens
Authors: Yuan Qian , Wang Ke , Zhang Xiaoyong , Zhang Xiqi , Wei Yen
Published: May 2018

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with various surface modifications are extensively investigated for drug/gene delivery. However, it is still not quite facile to determine the accurate effects of surface modification on their cellular uptake by now. In this report, a semiquantitative method is described to evaluate the cellular internalization efficiency of PEGylated MSNs with the help of aggregation induced emission (AIE)‐active luminogen (AIEgen) and ImageJ. First, AIEgen is facilely incorporated into nanoparticles to obtain fluorescent MSNs and PEGylated MSNs with the same emission density and similar particle sizes. Then their cellular uptake efficiency in L929 cells is determined by analyzing their cellular imaging results with ImageJ, which demonstrates that more than 25% PEGylated MSNs can get into cells than MSNs after 8 h. This approach can not only be utilized for evaluating the cellular uptake efficiency of other nanoparticles but can also provide useful information for their further biomedical applications.
Virtually enhancing the real world with holograms: An exploration of expected gratifications of using augmented reality smart glasses
Authors: Rauschnabel Philipp A.
Published: May 2018

Integrating virtual objects into the physical world is about to become real. Augmented reality smart glasses (ARSG), such as Microsoft HoloLens and other head‐mounted displays, allow users to augment and enhance their subjective perceptions of reality. However, extant research lacks findings to explain why people intend to use ARSGs in particular situations. To address this highly relevant research gap, this study proposes and tests a theoretical model that examines people's expected gratifications from ARSG usage. In doing so, this research enhances the understanding of ARSGs and adds novel constructs (e.g., desired enhancement of reality) to the stream of technology and media adoptance.
Lie symmetries and conservation laws for a generalized Kuramoto‐Sivashinsky equation
Authors: Rosa María , Camacho Jose Carlos , Bruzón María , Gandarias María Luz
Published: May 2018

Nonlinear partial differential equations are used to describe complex phenomena in various fields of science. In this work, we consider a generalized fourth‐order nonlinear wave equation from the point of view of the theory of symmetry reductions in partial differential equations. We derive classical symmetries, and we obtain the reductions from the optimal system of subalgebras. We derive all the low‐order conservation laws, and we search for multipliers of the reduced ordinary differential equations that are invariant under a symmetry group to reduce directly the order of the equations.
Nondominated solutions in a fully fuzzy linear programming problem
Authors: Arana‐Jiménez M.
Published: May 2018

In this work, a new method is presented for locating fuzzy optimal (nondominated) solutions of a fully fuzzy linear programming problem with inequality constraints and triangular fuzzy numbers, not necessarily symmetric, without ranking functions, by means of solving a multiobjective linear problem. An equivalence is proved between the set of nondominated solutions of the fully fuzzy linear programming problem and the set of weakly efficient solutions of the considered and related multiobjective linear problem. An algorithm is provided to generate nondominated solutions of a fully fuzzy linear programming problem, as well as an example to illustrate it.
Quantitative analysis of thyroid tumors vascularity: A comparison between 3‐D contrast‐enhanced ultrasound and 3‐D Power Doppler on benign and malignant thyroid nodules
Authors: Caresio Cristina , Caballo Marco , Deandrea Maurilio , Garberoglio Roberto , Mormile Alberto , Rossetto Ruth , Limone Paolo , Molinari Filippo
Published: May 2018

Purpose

To perform a comparative quantitative analysis of Power Doppler ultrasound (PDUS) and Contrast‐Enhancement ultrasound (CEUS) for the quantification of thyroid nodules vascularity patterns, with the goal of identifying biomarkers correlated with the malignancy of the nodule with both imaging techniques.

Methods

We propose a novel method to reconstruct the vascular architecture from 3‐D PDUS and CEUS images of thyroid nodules, and to automatically extract seven quantitative features related to the morphology and distribution of vascular network. Features include three tortuosity metrics, the number of vascular trees and branches, the vascular volume density, and the main spatial vascularity pattern. Feature extraction was performed on 20 thyroid lesions (ten benign and ten malignant), of which we acquired both PDUS and CEUS. MANOVA (multivariate analysis of variance) was used to differentiate benign and malignant lesions based on the most significant features.

Results

The analysis of the extracted features showed a significant difference between the benign and malignant nodules for both PDUS and CEUS techniques for all the features. Furthermore, by using a linear classifier on the significant features identified by the MANOVA, benign nodules could be entirely separated from the malignant ones.

Conclusions

Our early results confirm the correlation between the morphology and distribution of blood vessels and the malignancy of the lesion, and also show (at least for the dataset used in this study) a considerable similarity in terms of findings of PDUS and CEUS imaging for thyroid nodules diagnosis and classification.
Interspecific Hybridization and Reproductive Biology of Marine Clownfishes, The Orange Clownfish Amphiprion percula and Clown Anemonefish A. ocellaris
Authors: Balamurugan Jeyagoby , Kathiresan Kandasamy , Meenakumari Bharathiamma
Published: May 2018

Interspecific hybridization of Orange Clownfish Amphiprion percula (sire) and Clown Anemonefish A. ocellaris (dam) was displayed in successful pair formations within 4 months of rearing. Spawning mostly occurred at midday after a week of courtship. Incubation of eggs took 7–8 d, with the male showing the most parental care and the female sharing less time with the eggs. The hybrid embryo underwent 26 stages of cleavage to develop into a larva. The length of newly hatched hybrid larvae was significantly different from that of purebred Clown Anemonefish larvae and purebred Orange Clownfish larvae. Spawning frequency of interspecific pairs was three times in a month, similar to that of the Orange Clownfish intraspecific pair, whereas the Clown Anemonefish pair spawned two times in a month. Fecundity rate (60–370 eggs/spawn) significantly increased from the first spawn to the end of an annual cycle. Results of the present study indicate that interspecific pair formation and spawning are like those of other domesticated clownfishes. Essential reproductive parameters, such as fertilization and hatching rate, were low, but the survival rate of F1 hybrids was similar to that of other clownfishes. The precise selection of closely related species, sexual maturation, and generating pairs are essential to initiate crossbreeding technology at commercial hatcheries.
Effects of Air Exposure in Summer on the Survival of Caught-and-Released Salmonids
Authors: Roth Curtis J. , Schill Daniel J. , Quist Michael C. , High Brett
Published: May 2018

Despite the success of catch-and-release regulations, exposing fish to air during release has emerged as a growing concern over the past two decades. We evaluated the effect of air exposure during midsummer on survival of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri, Bull Trout Salvelinus confluentus, and Rainbow Trout O. mykiss exposed to catch-and-release angling. Fish were sampled by angling on Palisades Creek (August 2016), Sawmill Creek, and the Main Fork of the Little Lost River, Idaho (July−August 2017). After capture, fish were kept underwater while they were measured and individually tagged. Anglers, in groups of two to four, caught study fish and gave them an air exposure treatment of 0, 30, or 60 s. Single-pass backpack electrofishing was then used to recapture tagged fish and estimate relative survival. In total, 328 Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout were sampled (0 s: n = 110; 30 s: n = 110; 60 s: n = 108), 278 Bull Trout (0 s: n = 92; 30 s: n = 94; 60 s: n = 92), and 322 Rainbow Trout (0 s: n = 103; 30 s: n = 106; 60 s: n = 113). The majority of fish were caught using artificial flies (≥92%) and were hooked in the corner of the mouth, lower jaw, or upper jaw (≥78%) in all three species. No difference in survival was observed among air exposure treatments for all three species. Results from the present study along with those from prior field studies of air exposure times during angling suggest that mortality from exposing fish to air for ≤60 s is not likely a population-level concern in catch-and-release fisheries for these species.
Different approaches for mixed LSFEMs in hyperelasticity: Application of logarithmic deformation measures
Authors: Schwarz Alexander , Steeger Karl , Igelbüscher Maximilian , Schröder Jörg
Published: May 2018

We present geometrically nonlinear formulations based on a mixed least‐squares finite element method. The L2‐norm minimization of the residuals of the given first‐order system of differential equations leads to a functional, which is a two‐field formulation dependent on displacements and stresses. Based thereon, we discuss and investigate two mixed formulations. Both approaches make use of the fact that the stress symmetry condition is not fulfilled a priori due to the row‐wise stress approximation with vector‐valued functions belonging to a Raviart‐Thomas space, which guarantees a conforming discretization of H(div). In general, the advantages of using the least‐squares finite element method lie, for example, in an a posteriori error estimator without additional costs or in the fact that the choice of the polynomial interpolation order is not restricted by the Ladyzhenskaya‐Babuška‐Brezzi condition (inf‐sup condition). We apply a hyperelastic material model with logarithmic deformation measures and investigate various benchmark problems, adaptive mesh refinement, computational costs, and accuracy.
Modified Calix[4]crowns as Molecular Receptors for Barium
Authors: Steinberg Janine , Bauer David , Reissig Falco , Köckerling Martin , Pietzsch Hans‐Jürgen , Mamat Constantin
Published: May 2018

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group around Dr. Constantin Mamat at the Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research at the Helmholtz‐Zentrum Dresden‐Rossendorf (Germany) together with Prof. Martin Köckerling from the University of Rostock (Germany). The cover picture shows the ability of special functionalized calix[4]crown‐6 derivatives to stably bind group 2 metals like barium. This binding mode is highly important for radiopharmaceutical applications not to lose the respective radiometal in vivo to avoid high background signals and/or false positive results and damages in other tissues. For this purpose, different calix[4]crowns were tested, based upon their potential to stably bind barium as surrogate for radium. Radium nuclides are known to be good candidates for usage in α‐targeted therapies. Currently, radium‐223 is used for α‐therapy of bone metastases because of its calcium mimetics. Our aim is to apply the radium to treat other cancer tissues. That's why we need novel chelators to stably fix groups 2 metals like barium and radium. Read the full text of their Full Paper at 10.1002/open.201800019.
The Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex has a pathway for the biosynthesis of 4‐formamido‐4,6‐dideoxy‐d‐glucose
Authors: Brown Haley A. , Vinogradov Evgeny , Gilbert Michel , Holden Hazel M.
Published: May 2018

Recent studies have demonstrated that the O‐antigens of some pathogenic bacteria such as Brucella abortus, Francisella tularensis, and Campylobacter jejuni contain quite unusual N‐formylated sugars (3‐formamido‐3,6‐dideoxy‐d‐glucose or 4‐formamido‐4,6‐dideoxy‐d‐glucose). Typically, four enzymes are required for the formation of such sugars: a thymidylyltransferase, a 4,6‐dehydratase, a pyridoxal 5'‐phosphate or PLP‐dependent aminotransferase, and an N‐formyltransferase. To date, there have been no published reports of N‐formylated sugars associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. A recent investigation from our laboratories, however, has demonstrated that one gene product from M. tuberculosis, Rv3404c, functions as a sugar N‐formyltransferase. Given that M. tuberculosis produces l‐rhamnose, both a thymidylyltransferase (Rv0334) and a 4,6‐dehydratase (Rv3464) required for its formation have been identified. Thus, there is one remaining enzyme needed for the production of an N‐formylated sugar in M. tuberculosis, namely a PLP‐dependent aminotransferase. Here we demonstrate that the M. tuberculosis rv3402c gene encodes such an enzyme. Our data prove that M. tuberculosis contains all of the enzymatic activities required for the formation of dTDP‐4‐formamido‐4,6‐dideoxy‐d‐glucose. Indeed, the rv3402c gene product likely contributes to virulence or persistence during infection, though its temporal expression and location remain to be determined.
ETS2 is a prostate basal cell marker and is highly expressed in prostate cancers aberrantly expressing p63
Authors: Torres Alba , Alshalalfa Mohammed , Davicioni Elai , Gupta Anuj , Yegnasubramanian Srinivasan , Wheelan Sarah J. , Epstein Jonathan I. , De Marzo Angelo M. , Lotan Tamara L.
Published: May 2018

Background

Rare prostate carcinomas aberrantly express p63 and have an immunophenotype intermediate between basal and luminal cells. Here, we performed gene expression profiling on p63‐expressing prostatic carcinomas and compared them to usual‐type adenocarcinoma. We identify ETS2 as highly expressed in p63‐expressing prostatic carcinomas and benign prostate basal cells, with lower expression in luminal cells and primary usual‐type adenocarcinomas.

Methods

A total of 8 p63‐expressing prostate carcinomas at radical prostatectomy were compared to 358 usual‐type adenocarcinomas by gene expression profiling performed on formalin fixed paraffin embedded tumor tissue using Affymetrix 1.0 ST microarrays. Correlation between differentially expressed genes and TP63 expression was performed in 5239 prostate adenocarcinomas available in the Decipher GRID. For validation, ETS2 in situ hybridization was performed on 19 p63‐expressing prostate carcinomas and 30 usual‐type adenocarcinomas arrayed on tissue microarrays (TMA).

Results

By gene expression, p63‐expressing prostate carcinomas showed low cell cycle activity and low Decipher prognostic scores, but were predicted to have high Gleason grade compared to usual‐type adenocarcinomas by gene expression signatures and morphology. Among the genes over‐expressed in p63‐expressing carcinoma relative to usual‐type adenocarcinoma were known p63‐regulated genes, along with ETS2, an ETS family member previously implicated as a prostate cancer tumor suppressor gene. Across several cohorts of prostate samples, ETS2 gene expression was correlated with TP63 expression and was significantly higher in benign prostate compared to usual‐type adenocarcinoma. By in situ hybridization, ETS2 gene expression was high in benign basal cells, and low to undetectable in benign luminal cells or usual‐type adenocarcinoma. In contrast, ETS2 was highly expressed in 95% (18/19) of p63‐expressing prostate carcinomas.

Conclusions

ETS2 is a predominantly basally‐expressed gene in the prostate, with low expression in usual‐type adenocarcinoma and high expression in p63‐expressing carcinomas. Given this pattern, the significance of ETS2 loss by deletion or mutation in usual‐type adenocarcinomas is uncertain.
Benchmarking QSP Models Against Simple Models: A Path to Improved Comprehension and Predictive Performance
Authors: Stein Andrew M. , Looby Michael
Published: May 2018

Quantitative Systems Pharmacology (QSP) models provide a means of integrating knowledge into a quantitative framework and, ideally, this integration leads to a better understanding of biology and better predictions of new experiments and clinical trials. In practice, these goals may be compromised by model complexity and uncertainty. To address these problems, we recommend that the predictive performance of QSP models be assessed through comparison with simpler models developed specifically for this purpose.
Improvement of the Electrochemical Properties of Li3V2(PO4)3/C Cathode Material for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Jeon Minki , Jin Bong‐Soo , Kim Hyun‐Soo
Published: May 2018

The Li3V2(PO4)3 (LVP) cathode material is prepared via a sol‐gel method wherein 2.5–15.0 wt.% carbon black dispersed in distilled water is added during the sol preparation process to produce a cathode exhibiting improved electrochemical properties. Analysis by X‐ray diffraction shows that the prepared material exhibits a monoclinic LVP phase containing no impurities. In addition, the synthesized Li3V2(PO4)3 powder exhibits an irregular particle shape (average particle size 1–2 µm), with carbon black particles measuring tens of nanometers distributed on the surfaces of LVP particles. Coin half cells are then fabricated using this cathode material, and its electrochemical properties are evaluated in the voltage ranges of 3.0–4.8 and 3.0–4.3 V based on the carbon black content. More specifically, as the carbon black content is increased, the initial discharge capacity and rate performance improve, and the capacity retention increases between 3.0 and 4.8 V at 25 °C. Following charge/discharge cycling, the capacity retention of LVP/C between 3.0 and 4.3 V, but higher capacity is achieved compared to that of LVP.
Design and Performance Evaluation of Real‐time Endovascular Interventional Surgical Robotic System with High Accuracy
Authors: Wang Kundong , Chen Bing , Lu Qingsheng , Li Hongbing , Liu Manhua , Shen Yu , Xu Zhuoyan
Published: May 2018

Background

Endovascular interventional surgery (EIS) is performed under a high radiation environment at the sacrifice of surgeons' health. This paper introduces a novel endovascular interventional surgical robot that aims to reduce radiation to surgeons and physical stress imposed by lead aprons during fluoroscopic X‐ray guided catheter intervention.

Methods

The unique mechanical structure allowed the surgeon to manipulate the axial and radial motion of the catheter and guide wire. Four catheter manipulators (to manipulate the catheter and guide wire), and a control console which consists of four joysticks, several buttons and two twist switches (to control the catheter manipulators) were presented. The entire robotic system was established on a master–slave control structure through CAN (Controller Area Network) bus communication, meanwhile, the slave side of this robotic system showed highly accurate control over velocity and displacement with PID controlling method.

Results

The robotic system was tested and passed in vitro and animal experiments. Through functionality evaluation, the manipulators were able to complete interventional surgical motion both independently and cooperatively. The robotic surgery was performed successfully in an adult female pig and demonstrated the feasibility of superior mesenteric and common iliac artery stent implantation. The entire robotic system met the clinical requirements of EIS.

Conclusion

The results show that the system has the ability to imitate the movements of surgeons and to accomplish the axial and radial motions with consistency and high‐accuracy.
Integrating Community Concerns and Recommendations Into Home Buyout and Relocation Policy
Authors: Baker Charlene K. , Binder Sherri B. , Greer Alex , Weir Paige , Gates Kalani
Published: May 2018

Home buyout programs are implemented in the aftermath of disasters, with the goal of moving households or entire communities out of areas that are at risk for a future hazard event. Buyout programs offer residents pre‐disaster market value for their homes to relocate away from a hazardous area, and land purchased through buyouts is required to be maintained as open space in perpetuity. Our understanding of how these programs impact affected households and communities, however, is limited. Using a mixed methods design, 36 residents of Oakwood Beach, NY, were asked to describe their experiences with a home buyout program that was implemented in their community after Hurricane Sandy in 2012. While survey results showed that residents were generally satisfied with the buyout, a different picture emerged when they were asked to qualitatively describe the process of being bought out. Their experiences centered around three themes: (i) lack of information and communication from buyout officials; (ii) challenges surrounding the process of sale; and (iii) the buyout as a foregone conclusion. In light of these findings, recommendations are made to inform future home buyout programs and relocation policies.
Are the life and death of an early‐stage venture indeed in the power of the tongue? Lessons from online crowdfunding pitches
Authors: Gafni Hadar , Marom Dan , Sade Orly
Published: May 2018

Research Summary: While presenting initiatives to potential backers, entrepreneurs can choose the extent to which they presents themselves, versus presenting the idea. We investigate this decision and its effect on the success of fund‐raising on a leading crowdfunding platform (Kickstarter). We employ a textual quantification method validated by robustness tests. Our dataset was collected using custom software and includes more than 20,000 online business pitches and their results. We find that in Kickstarter fund‐raising, entrepreneurs’ descriptions matter—projects (especially art related) that frequently mentioned entrepreneurs’ names experienced higher rates of success, controlling for relevant variables.

Managerial Summary: Many entrepreneurs are interested in learning how to deliver successful fund‐raising pitches on crowdfunding platforms. We investigate the decision to mention frequently the entrepreneur's name and its effect on the success of fund‐raising on a leading crowdfunding platform (Kickstarter). We collected information about 20,000 online business pitches and their results. We find that in Kickstarter fund‐raising, entrepreneurs' descriptions matter—projects (especially art related) that frequently mentioned entrepreneurs' names experienced higher rates of success. We conducted an experiment that indicated that projects whose entrepreneurs mentioned themselves more substantially were associated with higher levels of trust and higher levels of perceived knowledge of the entrepreneurs.
Recent Progress in Some Amorphous Materials for Supercapacitors
Authors: Li Qing , Xu Yuxia , Zheng Shasha , Guo Xiaotian , Xue Huaiguo , Pang Huan
Published: May 2018

A breakthrough in technologies having “green” and sustainable energy storage conversion is urgent, and supercapacitors play a crucial role in this area of research. Owing to their unique porous structure, amorphous materials are considered one of the best active materials for high‐performance supercapacitors due to their high specific capacity, excellent cycling stability, and fast charging rate. This Review summarizes the synthesis of amorphous materials (transition metal oxides, carbon‐based materials, transition metal sulfides, phosphates, hydroxides, and their complexes) to highlight their electrochemical performance in supercapacitors.