bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identity and lineage fate of proteolipid protein 1 gene (Plp1)‐expressing cells in the embryonic murine spinal cord
Authors: Guo Shujing , Wang Yan , Wang Aijun
Published: April 2020

Background

The proteolipid protein (PLP) is the most abundant protein in the myelin sheath of the central nervous system (CNS). The gene coding PLP, proteolipid protein 1 (Plp1) is highly expressed in oligodendrocytes, the myelin‐forming cells in the CNS. Previous studies demonstrate that Plp1 gene is expressed in the embryonic CNS much earlier before the generation of oligodendrocytes. However, the progenitor identity and the fate of Plp1‐expressing cells are still elusive.

Results

We employed genetic approaches to permanently label Plp1‐expressing cells with the reporter enhanced yellow fluorescence protein (EYFP) and used multicolored immunohistochemistry to characterize their identity and lineage fate. We found that Plp1‐expressing cells were initially present without spatial restrictions and later confined to the ventral progenitor domains of the embryonic spinal cord. Our fate‐mapping results showed that Plp1‐expressing cells during early embryogenesis were multipotent neural progenitor cells that gave rise to not only neurons but also glial progenitor cells whereas they were bipotent glial progenitor cells during later neural development stages and generated oligodendroglial and astroglial lineage cells but not neurons. Intriguingly, postnatal astrocytes generated from embryonic Plp1‐expressing glial progenitor cells were present only in the ventral spinal cord.

Conclusion

Our study reveals that Plp1‐expressing cells during embryonic neural development display dynamic cellular identities and have a broader lineage fate than oligodendroglial lineage.
Tissue‐specific expression of ribosomal protein paralogue eRpL22‐like in Drosophila melanogaster eye development
Authors: Gershman Brett W. , Pritchard Caroline E. , Chaney Kenneth P. , Ware Vassie C.
Published: April 2020

Background

Differences in core or tissue‐specific ribosomal protein (Rp) composition within ribosomes contribute to ribosome heterogeneity and functional variability. Yet, the degree to which ribosome heterogeneity modulates development is unknown. The Drosophila melanogaster eRpL22 family contains structurally diverse paralogues, eRpL22 and eRpL22‐like. Unlike ubiquitously expressed eRpL22, eRpL22‐like expression is tissue‐specific, notably within the male germline and the eye. We investigated expression within the developing eye to uncover tissue/cell types where specific paralogue roles might be defined.

Results

Immunohistochemistry analysis confirms ubiquitous eRpL22 expression throughout eye development. In larvae, eRpL22‐like is ubiquitously expressed, but highly enriched in the peripodial epithelium (PE). In early pupae, eRpL22‐like is broadly distributed in multiple cell types, but later, is primarily enriched in interommatidial hair cells (IoHC). Adult patterns include the ring of accessory cells around ommatidia. Adult retinae IoHC patterning phenotypes (shown by scanning electron microscopy) may be linked to RNAi‐mediated eRpL22‐like depletion within larval PE. Immunoblots and polysome profile analyses show multiple variants of eRpL22‐like across development, with the variant at the expected molecular mass co‐sedimenting with active ribosomes.

Conclusion

Our data reveal differential patterns of eRpL22‐like expression relative to eRpL22 and suggest a specific role for eRpL22‐like in developmental patterning of the eye.
Fascin regulates protrusions and delamination to mediate invasive, collective cell migration in vivo
Authors: Lamb Maureen C. , Anliker Kelsey K. , Tootle Tina L.
Published: April 2020

Background

The actin bundling protein Fascin is essential for developmental cell migrations and promotes cancer metastasis. In addition to bundling actin, Fascin has several actin‐independent roles; how these other functions contribute to cell migration remains unclear. Border cell migration during Drosophila oogenesis provides an excellent model to study Fascin's various roles during invasive, collective cell migration.

Results

On‐time border cell migration during Stage 9 requires Fascin (Drosophila Singed). Fascin functions not only within the migrating border cells, but also within the nurse cells, the substrate for this migration. Fascin genetically interacts with the actin elongation factor Enabled to promote on‐time Stage 9 migration and overexpression of Enabled suppresses the defects seen with loss of Fascin. Loss of Fascin results in increased, shorter and mislocalized protrusions during migration. Additionally, loss of Fascin inhibits border cell delamination and increases E‐Cadherin (Drosophila Shotgun) adhesions on both the border cells and nurse cells.

Conclusions

Overall, Fascin promotes on‐time border cell migration during Stage 9 and contributes to multiple aspects of this invasive, collective cell migration, including both protrusion dynamics and delamination. These findings have implications beyond Drosophila, as border cell migration has emerged as a model to study mechanisms mediating cancer metastasis.
Hybridization selects for prime‐numbered life cycles in Magicicada: An individual‐based simulation model of a structured periodical cicada population
Authors: Toivonen Jaakko , Fromhage Lutz
Published: April 2020

We investigate competition between separate periodical cicada populations each possessing different life‐cycle lengths. We build an individual‐based model to simulate the cicada life cycle and allow random migrations to occur between patches inhabited by the different populations. We show that if hybridization between different cycle lengths produces offspring that have an intermediate life‐cycle length, then predation acts disproportionately to select against the hybrid offspring. This happens because they emerge in low densities without the safety‐in‐numbers provided by either parent population. Thus, prime‐numbered life cycles that can better avoid hybridization are favored. However, we find that this advantage of prime‐numbered cycles occurs only if there is some mechanism that can occasionally synchronize emergence between local populations in sufficiently many patches.
Management of low blood pressure in ambulatory heart failure with reduced ejection fraction patients
Authors: Cautela Jennifer , Tartiere Jean‐Michel , Cohen-Solal Alain , Bellemain‐Appaix Anne , Theron Alexis , Tibi Thierry , Januzzi James L. , Roubille François , Girerd Nicolas
Published: April 2020

Low blood pressure is common in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). While spontaneous hypotension predicts risk in HFrEF, there is only limited evidence regarding the relationship between hypotension observed during heart failure (HF) drug titration and outcome. Nevertheless, hypotension (especially orthostatic hypotension) is an important factor limiting the titration of HFrEF treatments in routine practice. In patients with signs of shock and/or severe congestion, hospitalization is advised. However, in the very frequent cases of non‐severe and asymptomatic hypotension observed while taking drugs with a class I indication in HFrEF, European and US guidelines recommend maintaining the same drug dosage. In instances of symptomatic or severe persistent hypotension (systolic blood pressure < 90 mmHg), it is recommended to first decrease blood pressure reducing drugs not indicated in HFrEF as well as the loop diuretic dose in the absence of associated signs of congestion. Unless the management of hypotension appears urgent, a HF specialist should then be sought rather than stopping or decreasing drugs with a class I indication in HFrEF. If symptoms or severe hypotension persist, no recommendations exist. Our HF group reviewed available evidence and proposes certain steps to follow in such situations in order to improve the pharmacological management of these patients.
Correlation of laboratory haemoconcentration measures with filling pressures obtained via pulmonary arterial pressure sensors in ambulatory heart failure patients
Authors: Almufleh Aws , Desai Akshay S. , Fay Renaud , Ferreira Joao Pedro , Buckley Leo F. , Mehra Mandeep R. , Rossignol Patrick , Zannad Faiez
Published: April 2020

Aims

Laboratory measures of haemoconcentration correlate with invasive haemodynamics and clinical outcomes in hospitalized heart failure (HF) patients. We aimed to determine the association between haemoconcentration and haemodynamic measures in ambulatory HF patients with implantable pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) sensors.

Methods and results

We reviewed ambulatory HF patients (n = 23) managed at the Brigham and Women's Hospital with implantable PAP sensors (CardioMEMS™, Abbott, Atlanta, GA, USA) who had sufficient data for serial haemodynamic–haemoconcentration correlation. The primary measures of interest were the absolute changes in haemoglobin and diastolic PAP at follow‐up compared to baseline values (obtained at implantation). In 23 patients (median age 64 years, 57% with HF with preserved ejection fraction), 518 paired laboratory–haemodynamic measurements were evaluated. At a median follow‐up of 27 (interquartile range 13–42) months, 17 (74%) patients had at least one hospitalization (59 total hospitalizations including 30 HF hospitalizations). For the population as a whole, diastolic PAP was negatively correlated with haemoglobin level (r = −0.09, P = 0.053). This negative correlation was more apparent when changes in haemoglobin and diastolic PAP were evaluated at the time of HF hospitalization compared to baseline values (r = −0.40, P = 0.029). The mean rise in diastolic PAP of 3.6 mmHg at HF hospitalization corresponded to a numerical decline of 0.6 g/dL in haemoglobin (P = 0.20).

Conclusion

Change in haemoglobin was correlated with change in diastolic PAP in ambulatory HF patients, especially at the time of HF hospitalization. These findings support the potential for investigation into the role of ambulatory monitoring of haemoglobin as an inexpensive, non‐invasive tool to guide de‐congestion strategies and potentially prevent HF hospitalizations.
Polyoxometalate Composites in Cancer Therapy and Diagnostics
Authors: Guedes Gabriela , Wang Shiqi , Santos Hélder A. , Sousa Filipa L.
Published: April 2020

Polyoxometalates (POMs) are metal‐oxide inorganic clusters, mostly anionic, where the metal is usually a transition metal (such as V, W, or Mo). Owing to their great variety of structures and large range of molecular dimensions, POMs have attracted considerable attention over the years. The high solubility in water together with the extent of their redox chemistry make POMs and their composites very versatile materials that find many applications in the biomedical field such as drug delivery systems or anti‐viral and anti‐tumoural agents. While the antitumoural activity of POMs and their derivatives is well documented, their application in emergent cancer therapies has not been addressed. This review presents the application of POM‐based composites as photothermal agents, radiosensitisers, and biosensors. The latest advances in the design of novel POM nanocomposites for cancer theranostics are also highlighted.
Coordination Compounds of 9,10‐Dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐Oxide (DOPO) Ligands: Extremely High Thermostability and Ligand Oxidation in the Solid State
Authors: Goedderz Daniela , Schäfer Timmy , Klitsch Johannes , Weber Lais , Weber Bettina , Fuhr Olaf , Buntkowsky Gerd , Schönberger Frank , Döring Manfred
Published: April 2020

Different metal phosphinates and phosphonates were obtained containing zinc, calcium and magnesium as cations by means of a salt metathesis reaction with sodium salts of DOPO and DOPO‐OH. The synthesized complexes [Zn(DOPO)2]n, [Zn(DOPO‐OH)2]n and [Ca(DOPO)2(H2O)]n are featured a polymeric structure. The open‐ring metal phosphinate coordination compound [Zn(DOPO)2]n is able to undergo a non‐reversible thermally induced oxidative cyclisation to the corresponding metal phosphonate [Zn(DOPO‐OH)2]n. The magnesium and calcium phosphinates cannot be oxidized to their corresponding metal phosphonate complexes. All organophosphorus compounds were analyzed by means of X‐ray crystallography, NMR, TGA and TDMS. The oxidative cyclisation reaction of [Zn(DOPO)2]n was investigated by DSC. Additionally, the coordination polymer [Zn(DOPO)2]n can be transformed into a molecular complex by adding nitrogen ligands such as N‐methylimidazole, whereby the phosphonate ligand changes from a bridging to a monodentate ligand. The synthesized coordination compounds exhibit very high thermostabilities of up to 520 °C.
Iodolactonization of 3‐Alkynylthiophene‐2‐Carboxylic and 3‐Alkynylpicolinic Acids for the Synthesis of Fused Heterocycles
Authors: Mancuso Raffaella , Novello Mariangela , Russo Patrizio , Palumbo Piccionello Antonio , Gabriele Bartolo
Published: April 2020

The iodolactonization of 3‐alkynylthiophene‐2‐carboxylic acids and 3‐alkynylpicolinic acids has been investigated. Using I2 as the iodine source and NaHCO3 as the base in MeCN, the process took place smoothly to afford thienopyranones and pyranopyridinones, respectively, from 6‐endo‐dig cyclization. The method also worked nicely for the transformation of 2‐(phenylethynyl)thiophene‐3‐carboxylic acid and 3‐(phenylethynyl)isonicotinic acid into 7‐iodo‐6‐phenyl‐4H‐thieno[3,2‐c]pyran‐4‐one and 4‐iodo‐3‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrano[4,3‐c]pyridin‐1‐one, respectively. Although with some 3‐alkynylpicolinic acids the process led to a mixture of the 6‐endo‐dig and 5‐exo‐dig products, it could be still made selective toward the pyranopyridinone compound working in 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium ethyl sulfate as the solvent. On the other hand, the exclusive formation of the 5‐exo‐dig product was observed in N‐ethyl‐N‐methylmorpholinium dicyanamide starting from 3‐(3,3‐dimethylbut‐1‐yn‐1‐yl)picolinic acid. Some representative iodinated thienopyridinone products were successfully used as substrates for Pd‐catalyzed Suzuki and Sonogashira reactions.
Harnessing Energy‐Transfer in N‐Centered Radical‐Mediated Synthesis of Pyrrolidines
Authors: Fodran Peter , Wallentin Carl‐Johan
Published: April 2020

Atom transfer radical addition (ATRA), cyclization (ATRC), and polymerization (ATRP) are valuable synthetic methods for the functionalization of olefins. With the advent of photoredox catalysis, visible‐light became a popular tool for the initiation of these reactions. We have developed a protocol that enables easy access to distally functionalized pyrrolidines employing blue‐light mediated atom transfer radical [3+2] cyclization. The reaction is scalable, proceeds at very mild conditions. tolerates various functional groups, and provides the corresponding products in good to excellent yields. If rigid olefins are utilized as the reaction partners, the products can be isolated as single diastereomers. The mechanistic investigations provide strong support for an energy‐transfer mechanism.
Prolonged culture in aerobic environments alters Escherichia coli H2 production capacity
Authors: Rochman Nash D. , Raciti David , Takaesu Felipe , Sun Sean X.
Published: April 2020

Growing interest in renewable energy continues to motivate new work on microbial biohydrogen production and in particular utilizing Escherichia coli a well‐studied, facultative anaerobe. Here we characterize, for the first time the H2 production rate and capacity, of E coli isolates from the 50 000th generation of the Long‐Term Evolution Experiment. Under these reaction conditions, peak production rates near or above 5 mL per hour for 100 mL of LB media was established for the ancestral strains and batch efficiencies between 0.15 and 0.22 mL H2 produced per 1 mL lysogeny broth (LB) media were achieved. All 11 isolates studied, which had been aerobically cultured in minimal media since 1988, exhibited a decreased H2 production rate or capacity with many strains unable to grow under anaerobic conditions at all. The genomes of these strains have been sequenced and a preliminary analysis of the correlations between genotype and phenotype shows that mutations in gene ydjO are exclusively observed in the two isolates which produce H2, potentially suggesting a role for this gene in the maintenance of wild type metabolic pathways in the context of diverse mutational backgrounds. These results provide hints towards uncovering new genetic targets for the pursuit of bacterial strains with increased capacity for H2 production as well as a case study in speciation and the control of phenotypic switching.
Chromatographic analyses and unambiguous identification of atranol‐like secondary metabolites in oakmoss absolute
Authors: Chittiboyina Amar G. , Wang Mei , Avonto Cristina , Parcher Jon F. , Khan Ikhlas A.
Published: April 2020

Oakmoss is a commercially significant natural extract used in exotic perfumes, cosmetics, and other personal care products. Unfortunately, oakmoss absolutes and oils also contain atranol and chloroatranols, well‐known potent skin sensitizers, and hence, their levels in personal care products are regulated. To address the presence of these metabolites and unravel the similar metabolites in the oakmoss absolute, two independent analytical methods were developed. As a proof of concept, one commercial absolute oakmoss was analyzed with complementary, orthogonal LC/MS, GC/MS methods and further confirmed with MS2 experiments. Sixteen secondary metabolites, including atranols, were identified by both GC and LC analyses. Many of the identified components appear to be the precursors of the atranols or process artifacts. One atranol analog, in particular, isopropyl haematommate, was investigated extensively with electron ionization mass spectrometry to show that fragmentation spectra can be applied for the unambiguous identification of related compounds. An intriguing fragmentation pattern was observed for a typical α‐hydroxybenzoate, involving sequential loss of alkene, alkanol, water, or carbon monoxide. A similar fragmentation pattern has been observed with ESI; however, the loss of CO2 was dominant, while the loss of CO was most commonly observed with the EI system independent of substituents on the aromatic ring. The identification of these metabolites was further confirmed with pure standards. Even though many of these unique secondary metabolites are structurally similar to atranols, their skin sensitization potential is unknown; hence, the developed methods can serve as an effective tool to assess the overall quality of various oakmoss‐based products.
Petrogenesis of the Late Triassic Sanshilipu monzogranites in North Qinling orogenic belt
Authors: Liu Junfeng , Li Jiahao , Li Chao
Published: April 2020

The Sanshilipu monzogranites is located in the northern margin of the South Qinling Block, with an outcrop of about 10 km2, and as an intrusion into Palaeozoic Danfeng ophiolitic mélange. The samples consist mainly of plagioclase, K‐feldspar, quartz, biotite, and minor titanite, apatite, magnetite, with contents of SiO2 (61.73–68.49%), Al2O3 (14.58–16.61%), K2O + Na2O (5.79–8.87%), MgO (1.07–2.91%), and low TiO2 (0.55–0.83%), similar to those of I‐type granite. They also show high concentrations of LREE, Pb, and Sr, slightly negative Eu, but low HREE, Nb, Ta, and Y. High Sr and Sr/Y, low Y characteristics are similar to those of adakite. High precision LA‐ICP‐MS U–Pb dating and trace element analysis of zircon in the Sanshilipu granite yielded a concordant age of 205 ± 1 Ma. This age is apparently younger than the closure age of the Mian‐Lue Ocean (242–221 Ma). We propose that the Sanshilipu monzogranites formed by magma mixing of thickened lower crust and limited mantle‐derived mafic magma during post‐collision of the South China and North China blocks.
Impaired orthostatic heart rate recovery is associated with smaller thalamic volume: Results from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Aging (TILDA)
Authors: De Looze Céline , Williamson Wilby , Hirst Rebecca , O'Connor John , Knight Silvin , McCrory Cathal , Carey Daniel , Kenny Rose‐Anne
Published: April 2020

The thalamus is a central hub of the autonomic network and thalamic volume has been associated with high‐risk phenotypes for sudden cardiac death. Heart rate response to physiological stressors (e.g., standing) and the associated recovery patterns provide reliable indicators of both autonomic function and cardiovascular risk. Here we examine if thalamic volume may be a risk marker for impaired heart rate recovery in response to orthostatic challenge. The Irish Longitudinal Study on Aging involves a nationally representative sample of older individuals aged ≥50 years. Multimodal brain magnetic resonance imaging and orthostatic heart rate recovery were available for a cross‐sectional sample of 430 participants. Multivariable regression and linear mixed‐effects models were adjusted for head size, age, sex, education, body mass index, blood pressure, history of cardiovascular diseases and events, cardiovascular medication, diabetes mellitus, smoking, alcohol intake, timed up‐and‐go (a measure of physical frailty), physical exercise and depression. Smaller thalamic volume was associated with slower heart rate recovery (−1.4 bpm per 1 cm3 thalamic volume, 95% CI −2.01 to −0.82; p < .001). In multivariable analysis, participants with smaller thalamic volumes had a mean heart rate recovery −2.7 bpm slower than participants with larger thalamic volumes (95% CI −3.89 to −1.61; p < .001). Covariates associated with smaller thalamic volume included age, history of diabetes, and heavy alcohol consumption. Thalamic volume may be an indicator of the structural integrity of the central autonomic network. It may be a clinical biomarker for stratification of individuals at risk of autonomic dysfunction, cardiovascular events, and sudden cardiac death.
Effect of tongue‐strengthening exercises on tongue strength and swallowing‐related parameters in chronic radiation‐associated dysphagia
Authors: Van den Steen Leen , Baudelet Margot , Tomassen Peter , Bonte Katrien , De Bodt Marc , Van Nuffelen Gwen
Published: April 2020

Background

Radiation‐associated dysphagia (RAD) is highly prevalent in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients, with insufficient tongue strength (TS) as a characteristic of this disabling complication. The effects of tongue‐strengthening exercises (TSE) on TS, swallowing, and quality of life (QoL) have not been studied in this population.

Methods

A prospective phase 2 study using an 8 weeks during TSE protocol was carried out in 15 patients with chronic RAD. Outcome parameters were maximal isometric pressure (MIP), TS during swallowing (Pswal), swallowing function, and QoL. All parameters were evaluated at baseline, after 4 and 8 weeks of training, and 4 weeks after the last training session.

Results

MIP increased significantly, without detraining effects. Pswal did not increase significantly, but relevant effect sizes were measured. Swallowing function ameliorated, but did not result in increased functional oral intake, self‐reported outcome or QoL.

Conclusion

TSE in patients with RAD results in increased strength and swallowing function.
Access to a regular medical provider among head and neck cancer survivors
Authors: Massa Sean T. , Pipkorn Patrik , Jackson Ryan S. , Zevallos Jose P. , Mazul Angela L.
Published: April 2020

Background

Patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) are at risk for limited healthcare access.

Methods

Individuals reporting a history of cancer were identified from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, an annual assessment of the nation's health. Access to care variables were compared between “HNC” and “other cancer” using multivariable methods and stratified by age 65.

Results

From 1998 to 2015, 420 patients with HNC and 14 468 with other cancers completed the survey. Among patients with HNC, 10.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.0‐15.9) lacked a regular provider, compared to 6.1% (95% CI 5.5‐6.6) of other cancer survivors. Ten percent of HNC survivors lacked a regular provider and 14.6% report barriers to needed care. For those 65 years and older, HNC was associated with lacking a regular provider (adjusted odds ratio 2.58, 95% CI 1.15‐5.80).

Conclusion

HNC was associated with lack of a regular care provider after age 65, which may result in substandard survivorship care.
Metal‐Surface Interactions and Surface Heterogeneity in ‘Well‐Defined’ Silica‐Supported Alkene Metathesis Catalysts: Evidences and Consequences
Authors: Pucino Margherita , Liao Wei‐Chih , Chan Ka Wing , Lam Erwin , Schowner Roman , Zhizhko Pavel A. , Buchmeiser Michael R. , Copéret Christophe
Published: April 2020

Here we present our observations on a peculiar kinetic behavior observed at low catalyst loadings for the metathesis of internal olefins on a highly active silica‐supported tungsten oxo alkylidene prepared through surface organometallic chemistry (SOMC). The observed kinetic profile is comprised of two consecutive regimes, which support the presence of two different active sites on the surface of such catalysts. We propose that the more active site is operational in the beginning of the reaction but deactivates very fast, and the second one initiates over time due to the presence of ethylene formed subsequently under the reaction conditions. A combination of spectroscopic techniques and computations was used to identify the possible nature of these sites. Solid‐state NMR, EXAFS and DFT calculations are consistent with the esence of two distinct surface species that likely originate from the occurrence of slightly different local environments on the surface, that is, metal sites with a different number of nearby siloxane bridges. This data highlights the effects that may arise from the amorphous nature of the supports like silica and the difficulties to obtain truly single‐site catalysts – one of the ultimate goals of SOMC.
Generalized differential quadrature analysis of unsteady three‐dimensional MHD radiating dissipative Casson fluid conveying tiny particles
Authors: Thumma Thirupathi , Wakif  Abderrahim , Animasaun Isaac Lare
Published: April 2020

It is worth remarking that little is known about generalized differential quadrature analysis of three‐dimensional flow of non‐Newtonian Casson fluid in the presence of Lorentz force, thermal radiation, haphazard motion of tiny particles, thermomigration of these tiny particles due to temperature gradient, heat source, significant conversion of kinetic energy into internal energy, first‐order chemical reaction, convectively heated horizontal wall, and zero nanoparticles mass flux at the stretching surface. The revised form of Buongiorno's nanofluid model accounted for significant influences of Brownian motion and thermophoresis. The similarity solution was complemented with a powerful collocation procedure based on the generalized differential quadrature method and Newton–Raphson iterative scheme to achieve accuracy and convergent outcomes. The numerical effects disclose that the Casson nanofluid parameter slows down the axial velocities in both directions. Also, the unsteadiness parameter tends to decline generally the temperature throughout the medium and decrease particularly the concentration profile away from the stretching surface. These examinations are applicable in the field of biomechanics, polymer processing, and for characterizing the cement slurries.
Mixed convection flow of a Maxwell nanofluid with Hall and ion‐slip impacts employing the spectral relaxation method
Authors: Ibrahim Wubshet , Anbessa Temesgen
Published: April 2020

This article investigates the Hall and ion‐slip impacts on the mixed convection flow of a Maxwell nanofluid over an expanding surface in a permeable medium. The impacts of Brownian movement and thermophoresis parameters, Soret, Dufour, viscous dissipation, chemical reaction, and suction parameters, are, moreover, considered. Using the similitude changes, the partial differential equations with regard to the momentum, energy, and concentration equations are transformed to an arrangement of nonlinear ordinary differential equations, which are handled numerically utilizing a spectral relaxation method (SRM). The impacts of noteworthy physical parameters on the velocities, thermal, and concentration distributions are investigated graphically. Moreover, the numerical values of skin‐friction coefficients, local Nusselt number, and Sherwood number for different values of the mixed convection parameter Deborah number Hall parameter ion‐slip parameter Dufour number (Du), and Soret number are computed and tabulated. It is discovered that ascent in Deborah number reduces both the stream and transverse velocity profiles, while the inverse pattern is seen with augmentation in the mixed convection parameter. In addition, inverse patterns of the stream and transverse velocity profiles are seen with expansion in magnetic, Hall, and ion‐slip parameters. Besides this, the temperature and concentration disseminations decline with augmentation in Dufour number and chemical reaction parameters, respectively. It is likewise seen that both the skin‐friction coefficients lessen with expansion in Deborah number, and they ascend with upgrade in blended convection and ion‐slip parameters, while the opposite condition is noticed with augmentation in Hall parameter. Furthermore, the reverse trends of local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers are discovered with expansion in the Dufour and Soret numbers.
Drug‐induced tics: An observational postmarketing study
Authors: Touafchia Davy , Montastruc François , Lapeyre‐Mestre Maryse , Rousseau Vanessa , Chebane Leila , Revet Alexis
Published: April 2020

Objectives

While drug‐induced tics have been described, in particular with neuroleptics, psychostimulants, or anti‐epileptics, the strength and the direction of these associations are still debated. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between tics and drug exposure through a two‐step analysis in two pharmacovigilance databases.

Methods

We first performed a descriptive clinical analysis of cases registered in the French pharmacovigilance database (FPVD) from January 1985 to December 2018. We then performed a disproportionality analysis in VigiBase®, the WHO pharmacovigilance database, from January 1967 to June 2019, through the calculation of reporting odds ratio (ROR).

Results

The drugs most frequently associated with tics in the FPVD were methylphenidate, lamotrigine, montelukast, tramadol, mirtazapine, venlafaxine, aripiprazole, and risperidone. In VigiBase®, we found a significant ROR with methylphenidate (ROR 37.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] 34.81–40.48), montelukast (ROR 12.18, 95% CI 10.29–14.41), aripiprazole (ROR 7.40, 95% CI 6.35–8.62), risperidone (ROR 4.40, 95% CI 3.72–5.21), and venlafaxine (ROR 1.52, 95% CI 1.14–2.03).

Conclusion

This postmarketing study confirmed a potential harmful association with methylphenidate (the highest association, as expected), aripiprazole, risperidone, lamotrigine, and venlafaxine and, interestingly, found a strong signal with montelukast, which, to our knowledge, had never been published before.
The association between interleukin‐8 levels and the development of withdrawal symptoms during methamphetamine abstinence
Authors: Feng Liang , He Weilei , Lin Shasha , Ruan Yiting , Yuan Chengxiang , Qiu Huihua , Ren Wenwei , He Jincai
Published: April 2020

Objective

Withdrawal symptoms are common during methamphetamine (METH) abstinence. This study aimed to explore the association between serum interleukins and withdrawal symptoms during METH abstinence.

Methods

This study recruited 120 METH users, and 94 of them completed the 2‐week follow‐up. Serum interleukin‐1β, 6,8,10 were tested at admission. Withdrawal symptoms were assessed by the Methamphetamine Withdrawal Questionnaire (MAWQ).

Results

Serum IL‐8 levels were positively correlated with MAWQ scores at the 2‐week endpoint (r = .257, p = .013). The variation of the MAWQ scores during the 2‐week follow‐up was negatively correlated with serum IL‐8 levels at admission (r = −.249, p = .026). Serum IL‐8 levels remained associated with the severity of METH withdrawal symptoms (β = .363, p = .023), after adjusting for potential confounders.

Limitations

This study did not include normal controls. Most patients were male and cigarette smokers. Patients were only followed up for 2 weeks, and their toxicology data were not collected. Interleukins were only measured at admission, and were tested in serum, not in the cerebrospinal fluid.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that higher serum IL‐8 levels may predict more severe withdrawal symptoms at 2 weeks after METH abstinence.
Conjunctive use of groundwater and surface water for paddy rice irrigation in Sanjiang plain, North‐East China*
Authors: Liu Jing , Chen Haorui
Published: April 2020

Most of the paddy rice in the Sanjiang Plain is irrigated with groundwater. In recent years the water requirement has been increasing with the rapid spread of paddy fields, while the groundwater table is constantly falling. In order to maintain the sustainable development of water resources in the long term, comprehensive measures, including conjunctive use of surface and groundwater and water‐saving practices, should be jointly applied. To investigate these comprehensive measures, a study on the conjunctive use of groundwater and surface water for paddy rice irrigation has been ongoing since 2014. This paper presents water management scenarios based on the study by adopting various water‐saving irrigation technologies and measures, volume of reused water, and application of groundwater and surface water. A semi‐distributed water balance model was developed to simulate the water cycle at irrigation district level in order to analyse water productivity and groundwater dynamic response to various scenarios. Based on this study, reasonable water use modes under different hydrological years are proposed. These modes show how and when to use groundwater, surface water and return flow. Groundwater and surface water should be conjunctively used with groundwater as the main source for irrigation, surface water as an auxiliary source and reused water as a supplementary source. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Grayscale representation of infrared microscopy images by extended multiplicative signal correction for registration with histological images
Authors: Trukhan Stanislau , Tafintseva Valeria , Tøndel Kristin , Großerueschkamp Frederik , Mosig Axel , Kovalev Vassili , Gerwert Klaus , Kohler Achim
Published: April 2020

Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy is rounding the corner to become a label‐free routine method for cancer diagnosis. In order to build infrared‐spectral based classifiers, infrared images need to be registered with Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) stained histological images. While FTIR images have a deep spectral domain with thousands of channels carrying chemical and scatter information, the H&E images have only three color channels for each pixel and carry mainly morphological information. Therefore, image representations of infrared images are needed that match the morphological information in H&E images. In this paper, we propose a novel approach for representation of FTIR images based on extended multiplicative signal correction highlighting morphological features that showed to correlate well with morphological information in H&E images. Based on the obtained representations, we developed a strategy for global‐to‐local image registration for FTIR images and H&E stained histological images of parallel tissue sections.
lncRNA Neat1 Stimulates Osteoclastogenesis Via Sponging miR-7
Authors: Zhang Yan , Chen Xiao-Feng , Li Jing , He Fang , Li Xu , Guo Yan
Published: April 2020

Increasing evidence uncover the essential role of long noncoding RNA (lncRNAs) in bone metabolism and the association of lncRNA with genetic risk of osteoporosis. However, whether lncRNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (Neat1) is involved remains largely unknown. In the present study, we found that Neat1 is induced by osteoclastic differentiation stimuli. Knockdown of Neat1 attenuates osteoclast formation whereas overexpression of Neat1 accelerates osteoclast formation. In vivo evidence showed that enhanced Neat1 expression stimulates osteoclastogenesis and reduces bone mass in mice. Mechanically, Neat1 competitively binds with microRNA 7 (miR-7) and blocks its function for regulating protein tyrosine kinase 2 (PTK2). Intergenic SNP rs12789028 acts as allele-specific long-range enhancer for NEAT1 via chromatin interactions. We establish for the first time that Neat1 plays an essential role in osteoclast differentiation, and provide genetic mechanism underlying the association of NEAT1 locus with osteoporosis risk. These results enrich the current knowledge of NEAT1 function, and uncover the potential of NEAT1 as a therapeutic target for osteoporosis. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Improving the heterointerface in hybrid organic–inorganic perovskite solar cells by surface engineering: Insights from periodic hybrid density functional theory calculations
Authors: Su Jun , Zhu Tao , Pauporté Thierry , Ciofini Ilaria , Labat Frédéric
Published: April 2020

A periodic hybrid density functional theory computational strategy is presented to model the heterointerface between the methylammonium lead iodide (MAPI) perovskite and titanium dioxide (TiO2), as found in perovskite solar cells (PSC), where the 4‐chlorobenzoic acid (CBA) ligand is used to improve the stability and the band alignment at the interface. The CBA ligand acts as a bifunctional linker to efficiently connect the perovskite and the oxide moieties, ensuring the stability of the interface through Ti–O and Pb–Cl interactions. The computed density of states reveals that the perovskite contributes to the top of the valence band while the oxide contributes to the bottom of the conduction band with a direct bandgap of 2.16 eV, indicating a possible electron transfer from MAPI to TiO2. Dipole moment analysis additionally reveals that the CBA ligand can induce a favorable effect to improve band alignment and thus electron transfer from MAPI to TiO2. This latter has been quantified by calculation of the spin density of the reduced MAPI/CBA/TiO2 system and indicates an almost quantitative (99.94%) electron transfer from MAPI to TiO2 for the surface engineered system, together with an ultrafast electron injection time in the femtosecond timescale. Overall, the proposed DFT‐based computational protocol therefore indicates that surface engineering and the use of a bifunctional linker can lead to a better stability, together with improved band alignment and electron injection in PSC systems.
Accurate prediction of relative binding affinities of a series of HIV‐1 protease inhibitors using semi‐empirical quantum mechanical charge
Authors: Peng Cheng , Wang Jinan , Xu Zhijian , Cai Tingting , Zhu Weiliang
Published: April 2020

A major challenge in computer‐aided drug design is the accurate estimation of ligand binding affinity. Here, a new approach that combines the adaptive steered molecular dynamics (ASMD) and partial atomic charges calculated by semi‐empirical quantum mechanics (SQMPC), namely ASMD‐SQMPC, is suggested to predict the ligand binding affinities, with 24 HIV‐1 protease inhibitors as testing examples. In the ASMD‐SQMPC, the relative binding free energy (ΔG) is reflected by the average maximum potential of mean force (max) between bound and unbound states. The correlation coefficient (R2) between the max and experimentally determined ΔG is 0.86, showing a significant improvement compared with the conventional ASMD (R2 = 0.52). Therefore, this study provides an efficient approach to predict the relative ΔG and reveals the significance of precise partial atomic charges in the theoretical simulations.
Medicinal signaling cells: A potential antimicrobial drug store
Authors: Hosseiniyan Khatibi Seyed Mahdi , Kheyrolahzadeh Keyvan , Barzegari Abolfazl , Rahbar Saadat Yalda , Zununi Vahed Sepideh
Published: April 2020

Medicinal signaling cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells derived from mammalian bone marrow and periosteum that can be extended in culture. They can keep their ability in vitro to form a variety of mesodermal phenotypes and tissues. Over recent years, there has been great attention over MSCs since they can impact the organ transplantation as well as autoimmune and bacterial diseases. MSCs can secrete different bioactive factors such as growth factors, antimicrobial peptides/proteins and cytokines that can suppress the immune system and prevent infection via direct and indirect mechanisms. Moreover, MSCs are able to increase bacterial clearance in sepsis models by producing antimicrobial peptides such as defensins, cathelicidins, lipocalin and hepcidin. It is the aim of the present review to focus on the antibacterial effector functions of MSCs and their mechanisms of action against the pathogenic microbes.
A case of successful transarterial stenting for pseudoaneurysm after pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Kitamura Fumimasa , Okabe Hirohisa , Yamashita Yo‐ichi , Miyata Tatsunori , Hayashi Hiromitsu , Imai Katsunori , Chikamoto Akira , Baba Hideo
Published: April 2020

Postpancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) bleeding, which is reported to occur in 5–7%, is a major complication that often causes life‐threatening secondary events. A transarterial catheter technique with coil embolization is a widespread procedure that could potentially cause massive hepatic infarction and subsequent sepsis with hepatic abscess, which can be a fatal complication. Here, we introduce a new transarterial technique that uses a hemostat with a stent graft, which successfully rescued a patient had suffered post‐PD bleeding.
Relations between hepatobiliary scintigraphy findings and histopathological factors in patients with recurrent biliary colic
Authors: Ahn Hyein , Jang Si‐Hyong , Lee Hyun Ju , Lee Ji‐Hye , Jung Hae Il , Oh Mee‐Hye , Lee Sang Mi , Lee Jeong Won
Published: April 2020

Background/Purpose

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between hepatobiliary scintigraphy findings and histopathological results in patients with recurrent biliary colic.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 107 patients who underwent hepatobiliary scintigraphy for recurrent biliary colic and subsequent cholecystectomy. According to the hepatobiliary scintigraphy findings, patients were categorized into a nonvisualization of gallbladder activity (nonvisualized GB) group, low gallbladder ejection fraction (GBEF) group, and normal GBEF group. Differences in histopathologic factors between the three groups were evaluated and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify histopathological predictors for hepatobiliary scintigraphy findings.

Results

The nonvisualized group had a higher frequency of patients with empyema and severe infiltration by neutrophils, lymphoplasma cells, and eosinophils. The low GBEF group had a higher muscle‐to‐total wall thickness ratio and muscle‐to‐fibrosis thickness ratio of the gallbladder wall than those in the normal GBEF group. On multivariate logistic regression analyses, severe degrees of lymphoplasma cell infiltration and eosinophil infiltration were independent predictors for nonvisualization of gallbladder activity, and a higher muscle‐to‐fibrosis thickness ratio was an independent predictor for low GBEF.

Conclusions

In patients with recurrent biliary colic, nonvisualization of gallbladder activity on hepatobiliary scintigraphy was related to the degree of inflammation in the gallbladder, while low GBEF was related to muscular hypertrophy of the gallbladder.
Long‐term oncologic outcomes of robotic and open pancreatectomy in a national cohort of pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: Nassour Ibrahim , Winters Sharon B. , Hoehn Richard , Tohme Samer , Adam Mohamed A. , Bartlett David L. , Lee Kenneth K. , Paniccia Alessandro , Zureikat Amer H.
Published: April 2020

Background

Robotic pancreatectomy is gaining momentum; however, limited data exist on the long‐term survival of this approach for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The objective of this study is to compare the long‐term oncologic outcomes of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) and robotic distal pancreatectomy (RDP) to open surgery in patients with PDAC.

Study Design

Robotic and open pancreatectomy for stages I‐III PDAC were obtained from the 2010 to 2016 National Cancer Database.

Results

We identified 17 831 pancreaticoduodenectomies and 2718 distal pancreatectomies of which 626 (4%) and 332 (12%) were robotic, respectively. There was no difference in median overall survival between RPD (22.0 months) and open pancreatoduodenectomy (21.8 months; logrank P = .755). The adjusted hazard ratio [HR] was 1.014 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.903‐1.139). The median overall survival for RDP (35.3 months) was higher than open distal pancreatectomy (ODP) (24.9 months; logrank P = .001). The adjusted HR suggests a benefit to RDP compared to ODP (HR, 0.744; 95% CI: 0.632‐0.868)

Conclusion

In a national cohort of resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma, the robotic platform was associated with similar long‐term survival for pancreaticoduodenectomy, but improved survival for distal pancreatectomy.
A detailed analysis of the recurrence timing and pattern after curative surgery in patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy or upfront surgery for gastric cancer
Authors: Agnes Annamaria , Biondi Alberto , Laurino Antonio , Strippoli Antonia , Ricci Riccardo , Pozzo Carmelo , Persiani Roberto , D'Ugo Domenico
Published: April 2020

Background and Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine whether the administration of neoadjuvant therapy (NAD) affects the incidence, timing, and pattern of recurrence in patients treated by curative gastrectomy.

Methods

Sixty‐nine patients undergoing NAD and R0 gastrectomy were compared with 198 patients undergoing upfront surgery using the propensity score matching (PSM) method. Disease‐free survival (DFS), disease‐specific survival (DSS), and progression‐free survival (PFS) analyses were conducted with a log‐rank test and Cox regression. Risk factors for recurrence were assessed by logistic regression.

Results

Among 69 patients with NAD, 28 (40.6%) experienced recurrence, and signet‐ring cell (SRC) carcinoma was the only factor independently associated with recurrence.

In the whole sample, NAD did not influence DFS, DSS, rate of recurrence, or PFS. After PSM, the variables associated with DFS were cN1, type of gastrectomy, the presence of SRCs, and the presence of lymphovascular invasion. Variables independently associated with recurrence were cN1, type of gastrectomy, and the presence of SRCs.

Conclusions

NAD had no impact on DFS, DSS, or the pattern of recurrence in any patients with gastric cancer. To define a better treatment strategy, future studies should focus on subtypes that do not respond to the current neoadjuvant regimens.