bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple roles of single‐minded 2 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and its clinical implications
Authors: Tamaoki Masashi , Komatsuzaki Rie , Komatsu Masayuki , Minashi Keiko , Aoyagi Kazuhiko , Nishimura Takao , Chiwaki Fumiko , Hiroki Tomoko , Daiko Hiroyuki , Morishita Kazuhiro , Sakai Yoshiharu , Seno Hiroshi , Chiba Tsutomu , Muto Manabu , Yoshida Teruhiko , Sasaki Hiroki
Published: February 2018

Degree of histological differentiation is an important characteristic of cancers and may be associated with malignant potential. However, in squamous cell carcinomas, a key transcriptional factor regulating tumor differentiation is largely unknown. Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is a standard treatment for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma; however, the survival rate is still below 40%. From microarray data, single‐minded 2 (SIM2) was overexpressed in the epithelial subtype. Here, we investigated the correlation between SIM2 expression and its clinical implication, and in vitro and in vivo functions of SIM2 in tumor differentiation and in CRT sensitivity. Although SIM2 was suppressed in cancerous tissues, SIM2‐high ESCC showed a favorable prognosis in CRT. Transient SIM2 expression followed by 3D culture induced expression of differentiation markers and suppressed epithelial‐mesenchymal transition‐ and basal‐cell markers. Levels of PDPN‐high tumor basal cells and of expression of genes for DNA repair and antioxidant enzymes were reduced in stable transfectants, and they showed high CDDP and H2O2 sensitivities, and their xenografts showed a well‐differentiated histology. Reduction of tumor basal cells was restored by knockdown of aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT) that interacted with SIM2. Together, SIM2 increases CRT sensitivity through tumor differentiation by cooperation with ARNT.
Great Apes and Human Development: A Personal History
Authors: Tomasello Michael
Published: February 2018

In this article, I recount my history of research with great apes. From the beginning, the idea was to compare apes to human children, with an eye to discovering facts relevant to describing and explaining processes of human development. The research went through three more or less distinct stages, focusing on communication and social learning, social cognition and theory of mind, and cooperation and shared intentionality. I conclude by identifying problems and prospects for comparative research in developmental psychology.
Characteristics of genetic diseases in consanguineous populations in the genomic era: Lessons from Arab communities in North Israel
Authors: Shalev S.A.
Published: February 2018

The health outcome of consanguineous/endogamous unions is an increased risk of autosomal recessive disorders in their progeny. This manuscript is focused on consanguineous/endogamous populations living in North Israel. Molecular tools show that spouses’ relatedness and hence their risks for congenital diseases among offspring are often greater than the risk calculated on the basis of reported pedigrees. Revealing founder mutations allow for effective genetic counseling, but also induce genetic screening of the whole community in case the mutations are found to be frequent. More complex genetic mechanisms, such as co‐inheritance of more than one condition, allelic and even locus heterogeneity, have been identified. These mechanisms make genetic counseling more challenging but with the advancement of molecular techniques, diseases can be better deciphered. Yet, the presence of multiple mutations responsible for genetic diseases in isolated populations, and occasionally locus heterogeneity of diseases, is an unexpected phenomenon that still needs mechanistic clarification. It seems probably that addressing genetic counseling challenges and estimations of risks for genetic morbidity in consanguineous/endogamous couples will be achieved by introducing high‐throughput genetic technologies into daily practice. The genomic era has expanded dramatically the translation of research products to genetic counseling tools, and this tendency is expected to yield a stronger impact in a near future.
Bone loss at implants and teeth in the same inter‐proximal unit: A radiographic study
Authors: Cecchinato Denis , Marino Massimiliano , Toia Marco , Cecchinato Francesca , Lindhe Jan
Published: February 2018

Objective

This study was performed to determine whether the distance between an implant and a tooth present in an inter‐proximal unit influenced the amount of marginal bone loss that occurred at the two facing (adjacent) surfaces.

Materials and methods

One hundred and eighty patients with a total of 278 inter‐proximal units were included. Radiographs of implants that also included adjacent (facing) natural tooth/teeth were digitalized, and various linear measurements were performed using a software program. The marginal bone level and the bone level change that had occurred during a mean of 5.8 years were assessed as well as distance between the implant and the adjacent tooth/teeth.

Results

The mean amount of additional marginal bone loss that took place during the observation period was about 0.4 mm at both implants and adjacent tooth surfaces. The horizontal distance between an implant and the facing tooth did not influence the amount of marginal bone loss that had occurred. In most inter‐proximal units, more advanced bone loss (>1 mm, >2 mm) had ensued either at the implant or at the facing tooth surface. Advanced additional bone loss occurred at both the implant and the tooth in only about 3% of the examined subjects.

Conclusion

Bone loss at implants and teeth appears to be a site‐specific phenomenon and not dependent on the inter‐proximal distance.
LINGO‐1 antibody ameliorates myelin impairment and spatial memory deficits in the early stage of 5XFAD mice
Authors: Wu Di , Tang Xiang , Gu Li‐Hua , Li Xiao‐Li , Qi Xin‐Yang , Bai Feng , Chen Xiao‐Chun , Wang Jian‐Zhi , Ren Qing‐Guo , Zhang Zhi‐Jun
Published: February 2018

Aims

Multiple evidence has indicated that myelin injury is common in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, whether myelin injury is an early event in AD and the relationship between it and cognitive function is still elusive.

Methods

Spatial memory of 5XFAD mice was determined by Morris water maze at 1 and 3 months old. Meanwhile, the deposition of Aβ, the expression of myelin basic protein (MBP), LINGO‐1, NgR, and myelin ultrastructure in many memory‐associated brain regions were detected in one‐month‐old and three‐month‐old mice (before and after LINGO‐1 antibody administration) using immunostaining, Western blot (WB), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively.

Results

No abnormal Aβ deposition was found in one‐month‐old 5XFAD mice. However, spatial memory deficits were proved in accordance with an obvious demyelination in memory‐associated brain regions in one‐month‐old mice and both deteriorated with age. Administration of LINGO‐1 antibody could obviously restore the myelin impairments in CA1 and DG region and partially ameliorate spatial memory deficits.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that myelin injury was an early event in 5XFAD mice even prior to emergence of deposition of Aβ. Intervention with the LINGO‐1 antibody could attenuate impaired spatial memory deficits by remyelination, which suggested that myelin injury was involved in spatial memory deficits and remyelination may be a potential therapeutic strategy in early stage of AD or mild cognitive impairments.
Cause or compensation?—Altered neuronal Ca2+ handling in Huntington's disease
Authors: Mackay James P. , Nassrallah Wissam B. , Raymond Lynn A.
Published: February 2018

Huntington's disease (HD) is a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder of typically middle‐aged onset for which there is no disease‐modifying treatment. Caudate and putamen medium‐sized spiny projection neurons (SPNs) most severely degenerate in HD. However, it is unclear why mutant huntingtin protein (mHTT) is preferentially toxic to these neurons or why symptoms manifest only relatively late in life. mHTT interacts with numerous neuronal proteins. Likewise, multiple SPN cellular processes have been described as altered in various HD models. Among these, altered neuronal Ca2+ influx and intracellular Ca2+ handling feature prominently and are addressed here. Specifically, we focus on extrasynaptic NMDA‐type glutamate receptors, endoplasmic reticulum IP3 receptors, and mitochondria. As mHTT is expressed throughout development, compensatory processes will likely be mounted to mitigate any deleterious effects. Although some compensations can lessen mHTT's disruptive effects, others—such as upregulation of the ER‐refilling store‐operated Ca2+ channel response—contribute to pathogenesis. A causation‐based approach is therefore necessary to decipher the complex sequence of events linking mHTT to neurodegeneration, and to design rational therapeutic interventions. With this in mind, we highlight evidence, or lack thereof, that the above alterations in Ca2+ handling occur early in the disease process, clearly interact with mHTT, and show disease‐modifying potential when reversed in animals.
Impaired fear extinction in serotonin transporter knockout rats is associated with increased 5‐hydroxymethylcytosine in the amygdala
Authors: Shan Ling , Guo Hang‐Yuan , van den Heuvel Corina N. A. M. , van Heerikhuize Joop , Homberg Judith R.
Published: February 2018

Aims

One potential risk factor for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) involves the low activity (short; s) allelic variant of the serotonin transporter‐linked polymorphic region (5‐HTTLPR), possibly due to reduced prefrontal control over the amygdala. Evidence shows that DNA methylation/demethylation is crucial for fear extinction in these brain areas and is associated with neuronal activation marker c‐Fos expression. We hypothesized that impaired fear extinction in serotonin transporter knockout (5‐HTT−/−) rats is related to changes in DNA (de) methylation and c‐Fos expression in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and/or amygdala.

Methods

5‐HTT−/− and 5‐HTT+/+ rats were subjected to fear extinction. 2 hours after the extinction session, the overall levels of DNA methylation (5‐mC), demethylation (5‐hmC), and c‐Fos in fear extinction and nonfear extinction rats were measured by immunohistochemistry.

Results

5‐HTT−/− rats displayed decreased fear extinction. This was associated with reduced c‐Fos activity in the infralimbic PFC. In the central nucleus of the amygdala, c‐Fos immunoreactivity was increased in the fear extinction group compared to the no‐fear extinction group, regardless of genotype. 5‐hmC levels were unaltered in the PFC, but reduced in the amygdala of nonextinction 5‐HTT−/− rats compared to nonextinction wild‐type rats, which caught up to wild‐type levels during fear extinction. 5‐mC levels were stable in central amygdala in both wild‐type and 5‐HTT−/− extinction rats. Finally, c‐Fos and 5‐mC levels were correlated with the prelimbic PFC, but not amygdala.

Conclusions

In the amygdala, DNA demethylation, independent from c‐Fos activation, may contribute to individual differences in risk for PTSD, as conferred by the 5‐HTTLPR s‐allele.
Effects of sevoflurane preconditioning on microglia/macrophage dynamics and phagocytosis profile against cerebral ischemia in rats
Authors: Dang Dan‐Dan , Saiyin Hexige , Yu Qiong , Liang Wei‐Min
Published: February 2018

Aim

The effects of sevoflurane on microglia/macrophages, promoting or suppressing their activation, remains controversy. We aimed to determine whether sevoflurane preconditioning can protect brain via changing microglia/macrophage dynamics and phagocytosis profile after ischemia.

Methods

The impact of sevoflurane preconditioning was evaluated on microglia/macrophage migration, phagocytosis and proliferation altogether from day 1 to day 7 after transient middle cerebral arterial occlusion (tMCAO) in rats.

Results

Sevoflurane preconditioning was identified to accelerate microglia/macrophage migrating to and invasion in the ischemic core from day 1 to day 5 after damage. Significant accumulation of amoeboid and phagocytic microglia/macrophages was observed in sevoflurane group from day 3 to day 5 after ischemia injury. In addition, sevoflurane pretreatment also promoted the proliferation of microglia/macrophage (Iba1+/Ki67+) dramatically in ischemic core on day 3 postinsult.

Conclusions

Our current study has identified the impact of sevoflurane preconditioning on microglia/macrophage dynamics, including its migration, phagocytosis, and proliferation at early stage after brain ischemia and reperfusion. Sevoflurane might enhance microglia/macrophage activation and promote brain repair. These results could help to approach more relevant microglia/macrophage cell‐based strategy for human stroke therapy.
The undervalued contribution of mangrove protection in Mexico to carbon emission targets
Authors: Adame Maria Fernanda , Brown Christopher James , Bejarano Marylin , Herrera‐Silveira Jorge Alfredo , Ezcurra Paula , Kauffman J. Boone , Birdsey Richard
Published: February 2018

Mangrove deforestation threatens to release large stores of carbon from soils that are vulnerable to oxidation. Carbon stored in deep soils is not measured in national carbon inventories. Thus, policies on emission reductions have likely underestimated the contribution of mangrove deforestation to national emissions. Here, we estimate that emissions from deforestation and degradation of mangroves in Mexico are 31 times greater than the values used to determine national emission reduction targets for the Paris Agreement. Thus, Mexico has vastly undervaluated the potential of mangrove protection to reduce its emissions. Accounting for carbon emissions from mangrove soils should greatly increase the priority of mangrove forests to receive funding for protection under carbon trading programs.
Validation of reaching in a virtual environment in typically developing children and children with mild unilateral cerebral palsy
Authors: Robert Maxime T , Levin Mindy F
Published: February 2018

Aim

To compare three reaching movements made in two planes between a low‐cost, game‐based virtual reality and a matched physical environment in typically developing children and children with cerebral palsy (CP). To determine if differences in kinematics are related to sensory deficits.

Method

An observational study in which 27 children (typically developing, n=17, mean age 13y, [SD] 2y 2mo, range 9y 3mo–17y 2mo; CP, n=10, mean age 13y 8mo, [SD] 1y 8mo, range 11y 1mo–17y 1mo, Manual Ability Classification System levels I–II) performed 15 trials of three gestures in each of a virtual reality and a matched physical environment. Upper‐limb and trunk kinematics were recorded using an electromagnetic system (G4, Polhemus, six markers, 120Hz).

Results

Compared to the physical environment, movements in virtual reality made by typically developing children were slower (p=0.002), and involved less trunk flexion (p=0.002) and rotation (p=0.026). Children with CP had more curved trajectories (p=0.005) and used less trunk flexion (p=0.003) and rotation (p=0.005). Elbow and shoulder kinematics differed from 2.8% to 155.4% between environments in both groups. Between groups, there were small, clinically insignificant differences with only the vertical gesture being longer in typically developing children. Children with CP who had greater tactile impairment used more trunk displacement.

Interpretation

Clinicians and researchers need to be aware of differences in movement variables when setting goals or designing protocols for improving reaching in children with CP using low‐cost, game‐based virtual reality systems.

What this paper adds

Upper‐limb kinematics differed in each group when reaching in physical versus virtual environments.

There were small differences in movements made by children with mild unilateral cerebral palsy (CP) compared to typically developing children.

Differences in reaching kinematics should be considered when goal setting using virtual reality interventions for children with mild unilateral CP.
Real wages once more: a response to Judy Stephenson
Authors: Allen Robert C.
Published: February 2018

This article examines Judy Stephenson's claim that institutional wage series such as those of Greenwich Hospital overstate the earnings of building workers by 20 to 30 per cent, and it is argued here that the conclusion is unpersuasive. Whatever adjustments to existing wage series are necessary in view of her new evidence would have no significant implications for real wages in England compared to the rest of the world. Consequently, Stephenson's findings do not call into question the high wage explanation for the industrial revolution.
Is diffusion magnetic resonance imaging the future biomarker to measure therapeutic efficacy in multiple sclerosis?
Authors: Kincses Z. T. , Vécsei L.
Published: February 2018

Click here to view the accompanying paper in this volume.
Acute amnestic syndrome in isolated bilateral fornix stroke
Authors: Salvalaggio A. , Cagnin A. , Nardetto L. , Manara R. , Briani C.
Published: February 2018

Background and purpose

Acute onset of amnestic syndrome may represent a challenging diagnostic issue. In addition to non‐vascular etiology, thalamic strokes or infarction involving several temporal lobe structures have been reported.

Methods

We describe three patients in whom an isolated bilateral anterior fornix infarction presented with an acute amnestic syndrome. Clinical presentation, differential diagnosis and magnetic resonance images are discussed for each patient and vascular anatomy of the involved brain regions is also considered.

Results

Bilateral anterior columns of the fornix showed cytotoxic edema and bilateral narrowing of anterior cerebral artery was demonstrated.

Conclusions

We suggest that bilateral fornix infarction should always be considered in the diagnostic work‐up of an amnestic syndrome with acute onset.
Salivary levels of angiopoietin‐2 in infants with infantile haemangiomas treated with and without systemic propranolol
Authors: Seamens Alexandra , Nieman Elizabeth , Losavio Kristen , Bradley Bridget , Nelson Kate , Chen Kuang‐Ho , Chen Suephy , Arbiser Jack , Lawley Leslie P.
Published: February 2018

Infantile haemangiomas (IHs) with functional or cosmetic concerns necessitate systemic treatment for which propranolol is the preferred treatment. However, the mechanism of action is unknown. Mouse models suggest the angiopoietin‐2 (Ang2)/Tie‐2 system is implicated. Ang2 can promote endothelial growth or induce apoptosis depending on the presence of vascular endothelial growth factor. This pilot study investigates the saliva Ang2 levels in infants with IH treated with and without systemic propranolol. Patients with clinically confirmed IHs were recruited from an academic paediatric dermatology centre. Treatment was based on clinical evaluation. Saliva samples were collected over 6 months. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay determined Ang2 levels. Ang2 levels were detectable in 45% of samples. However, by the late time point, only 28% had detectable levels. There were no changes of Ang2 over time, and there were no differences in Ang2 levels between groups. However, Ang2 levels were correlated with baseline size and changes in size from baseline. Ang2 is detectable in saliva of affected infants, but does not decrease with propranolol treatment. However, Ang2 levels are positively correlated with size and changes in size. Thus, Ang2 is not the primary factor in the mechanism of propranolol resulting in IH reduction.
Cryptotanshinone reduces psoriatic epidermal hyperplasia via inhibiting the activation of STAT3
Authors: Tang Lipeng , He Songmin , Wang Xieqi , Liu Hongying , Zhu Ying , Feng Bing , Su Zuqing , Zhu Wei , Liu Bo , Xu Fangfang , Li Chutian , Zhao Jie , Zheng Xirun , Lu Chuanjian , Zheng Guangjuan
Published: February 2018

The discovery of new therapeutic drugs with the efficacious and safe ability to prevent epidermal hyperplasia is extremely urgent for psoriasis. Cryptotanshinone (CTS), an active component isolated from the root of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, has been reported to have antibacterial and antitumor effects. However, its effects on psoriasis have not been reported. Here, we investigated the therapeutic effects of CTS on imiquimod (IMQ)‐induced psoriatic‐like skin model and explored the underlying mechanisms. Our results revealed that CTS effectively alleviates IMQ‐induced epidermal hyperplasia. In vitro studies also indicated that CTS potently inhibits the growth of keratinocytes. We further found that STAT3, a transcription factor for the cell growth, is the key mediator of CTS on the proliferation of keratinocytes. Taken together, our findings indicated that the curative effects of CTS on psoriasis are accomplished mainly through modulating STAT3, which providing evidences to develop CTS as a potential therapeutic agent for patients with psoriasis.
The expression and function of galectins in skin physiology and pathology
Authors: Wu Nan‐Lin , Liu Fu‐Tong
Published: February 2018

The galectin family comprises β‐galactoside–binding proteins widely expressed in many organisms. There are at least 16 family members, which can be classified into three groups based on their carbohydrate‐recognition domains. Pleiotropic functions of different galectins in physiological and pathological processes through extracellular or intracellular actions have been revealed. In the skin, galectins are expressed in a variety of cells, including keratinocytes, melanocytes, fibroblasts, dendritic cells, lymphocytes, macrophages and endothelial cells. Expression of specific galectins is reported to affect cell status, such as activation or death, and regulate the interaction between different cell types or between cells and the extracellular matrix. In vitro cellular studies, in vivo animal studies and studies of human clinical material have revealed the pathophysiologic roles of galectins in the skin. The pathogenesis of diverse non‐malignant skin disorders, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, contact dermatitis and wound healing, as well as skin cancers, such as melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous haematologic malignancy can be regulated by different galectins. Revelation of biological roles of galectins in skin may pave the way to future development of galectin‐based therapeutic strategies for skin diseases.
Depletion of keratin 8/18 modulates oncogenic potential by governing multiple signaling pathways
Authors: Tiwari Richa , Sahu Indrajit , Soni Bihari Lal , Sathe Gajanan J , Thapa Pankaj , Patel Pavan , Sinha Shruti , Vadivel Chella Krishna , Patel Shweta , Jamghare Sayli Nitin , Oak Swapnil , Thorat Rahul , Gowda Harsha , Vaidya Milind M.
Published: February 2018

Keratin 8/18, the predominant keratin pair of simple epithelia, is often aberrantly expressed in various squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) including skin SCC. Its aberrant expression is correlated with increased invasiveness and poor prognosis of the same, although the underlying mechanism is still unclear. A previous report from our laboratory has shown K8‐mediated regulation of α6β4 integrin signaling and thereby tumorigenic potential of oral SCC‐derived cells. Another study on transgenic mouse model has shown that during skin carcinogenesis, K8 favors conversion of papillomas toward malignancy. In order to understand the role of K8 and allied mechanism in skin SCC, K8 was stably knocked down in a skin epidermoid carcinoma‐derived A431 cells. K8 downregulation significantly reduced the tumorigenic potential of these cells. In agreement with our phenotypic data, differential quantitative proteomics followed by IPA analysis showed altered expression of many proteins associated with biological functions including ‘Cancer’, ‘Cellular movement’, ‘Cell death and survival’, and ‘Cellular morphology’. Some of these proteins were TMS1, MARCKSL1, RanBP1, 14‐3‐3γ, Rho‐GDI2, etc. Furthermore, to our surprise, there was a significant reduction in K17 protein stability upon loss of K8, probably due to its caspase‐mediated degradation. This was supported by altered TMS1‐NF‐κB signaling, leading to increased apoptotic sensitivity of A431 cells which in turn affected ‘Cell death and survival’. Moreover, MARCKSL1‐Paxillin1‐Rac axis was found to be deregulated bestowing a possible mechanism behind altered ‘Cellular movement’ pathway. Altogether our study unravels a much broader regulatory role of K8, governing multiple signaling pathways and consequently regulating oncogenic potential of skin SCC‐derived cells.

Database

Proteome Xchange Consortium via PRIDE database (dataset identifier PXD007206).
Prognostic impact of tumour–stroma ratio in early‐stage oral tongue cancers
Authors: Almangush Alhadi , Heikkinen Ilkka , Bakhti Nassira , Mäkinen Laura K , Kauppila Joonas H , Pukkila Matti , Hagström Jaana , Laranne Jussi , Soini Ylermi , Kowalski Luiz P , Grénman Reidar , Haglund Caj , Mäkitie Antti A , Coletta Ricardo D , Leivo Ilmo , Salo Tuula
Published: February 2018

Aims

Oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) has a relatively poor outcome, and there is a need to identify better prognostic factors. Recently, tumour–stroma ratio (TSR) has been associated with prognosis in several cancers. The aim of this multi‐institutional study was to evaluate the prognostic value of TSR from original haematoxylin and eosin (HE)‐stained tumour‐resection slides in a series of early‐stage (cT1‐2N0) OTSCC patients.

Methods and results

A TSR cutoff value of 50% was used to divide the patients into stroma‐rich (≥50%) and stroma‐poor (<50%) groups. The relationships between TSR and clinicopathological characteristics of 311 early‐stage OTSCC cases were analysed. The prognostic value of TSR in OTSCC was calculated separately and in combination with a previously published cancer cell budding and depth of invasion (BD) prognostic model. A total of 89 cases (28.6%) belonged to the stroma‐rich group. In a multivariate analysis, the stroma‐rich group had worse disease‐free survival, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.81 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17–2.79, P = 0.008], and higher cancer‐related mortality (HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.02–2.86, P = 0.03). The combination of the highest‐risk parameter scores of TSR and the BD model showed significant correlations with recurrence rate (HR 3.42, 95% CI 1.71–6.82, P = 0.004) and cancer‐related mortality (HR 11.63, 95% CI 3.83–35.31, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

We conclude that TSR is a simple histopathological feature that is useful for prognostication of early‐stage OTSCC, and suggest that TSR analyses in association with BD score could be included in routine clinical pathology reports for HE‐stained slides.
BETTER LATER THAN NEVER? AN EXPERIMENT ON BARGAINING UNDER ADVERSE SELECTION
Authors: Bochet Olivier , Siegenthaler Simon
Published: February 2018

A central result in the literature on bargaining with asymmetric information is that the uninformed party (buyer) can screen the informed party (seller) over time. Screening eliminates trade failures that are otherwise common in the presence of adverse selection, but the downside of the bargaining institution is the cost associated with repeated offers and time frictions. This article reports an experimental test of these predictions. We find that rates of trade are substantially higher in the bargaining institution than in control treatments in which we remove the possibility to make repeated offers (take‐it‐or‐leave‐it offer) or the time frictions. However, we also observe a persistent overdelay before agreements are reached, that is, bargaining takes longer than theoretically predicted. This lowers efficiency below its predicted level and below the level observed in the take‐it‐or‐leave‐it offer institution. We identify possible channels for overdelay in the form of fairness preferences and loss aversion, concluding that there are important behavioral deviations from the standard model that are detrimental to the efficiency of bargaining under incomplete information.
The use of selected hydrocolloids to enhance cooking quality and hardness of zero‐salt noodles
Authors: Tan Hui‐Ling , Tan Thuan‐Chew , Easa Azhar Mat
Published: February 2018

The effects of table salt (TS) and hydrocolloids on water‐holding capacity, optimum cooking time, cooking qualities, pH and textural properties of noodles were investigated. TS, xanthan gum (XG), carrageenan (CRG), Arabic gum (AG) and locust bean gum (LBG) were added at 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5% and 2.0% of flour weight. XG, CRG and LBG contributed to significantly (P < 0.05) higher water‐holding capacity of dough and firmer texture, but significantly (P < 0.05) lower cooking loss than zero‐salt noodles (ZSNs) and white‐salted noodles (WSNs). Hydrocolloids contributed in shorter optimum cooking time than ZSNs. Springiness of noodles was not significantly (P > 0.05) affected by increment of TS and hydrocolloids. TS1.5, ZSN‐XG1.5, ZSN‐XG2.0 and ZSN‐CRG1.5 had significantly (P < 0.05) higher cooking yield than ZSNs. The increment of TS and hydrocolloids had significantly (P < 0.05) increased the pH values of noodles. ZSN‐XG2.0, ZSN‐CRG1.5 and ZSN‐LBG1.5 may be useful to enhance ZSNs due to the better noodles qualities than ZSNs.
Comprehensive re‐evaluation of historical von Willebrand disease diagnosis in association with whole blood platelet aggregation and function
Authors: Nummi V. , Lassila R. , Joutsi‐Korhonen L. , Armstrong E. , Szanto T.
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Diagnosis of von Willebrand disease (VWD) is challenging, particularly for type 1. The current diagnostic guidelines emphasize simultaneous bleeding symptoms and von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels of <30‐40 IU/dL. Historical diagnoses require updated evaluation. We assessed the accuracy of past VWD diagnoses in our comprehensive care center with the standardized bleeding score (BS) and central laboratory analysis, focusing on VWF‐dependent platelet functions in whole blood.

Methods

Our study comprised 83 adults with prior VWD who were diagnosed a median of 20 years ago. We assessed BS, VWF antigen and activity (minimum of 3 measurements), FVIII, PFA‐100®, and platelet aggregation via Multiplate®. Genetic testing was targeted to types 3, 2N, 2B, and equivocal cases.

Results

All 13/13 (100%) type 3 and 29/32 (90%) type 2, but only 10/38 (26%) of type 1 (overall 52/83 (63%)) patients met the current criteria for VWD. All confirmed cases had abnormal BS, impaired PFA‐100®, and decreased or absent ristocetin‐induced platelet aggregation (RIPA), except subtype 2B. VWF, FVIII, RIPA, and PFA correlated with BS including all study subjects. Ten of the 38 patients with previous type 1 had low VWF (35‐50 IU/dL) and variable VWF‐dependent platelet function. Altogether, 21/83 patients (25%) had repeatedly normal VWF:RCo (>50 IU/dL).

Conclusion

von Willebrand disease is associated with impaired VWF‐dependent whole blood platelet functions that match traditional VWF measurements. We detected normal VWF in 25% of historically diagnosed patients, mainly type 1 patients, implying that there is a need to systematically re‐evaluate historical VWD diagnoses.
Distinguishing myelofibrosis from polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia: The utility of enumerating circulating stem cells with aberrant hMICL expression by flow cytometry
Authors: Herborg L. L. , Nederby L. , Hasselbalch H. C. , Aggerholm A. , Roug A. S.
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Diagnosing BCR‐ABL negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) may be challenging due to overlapping features and lack of robust discriminatory parameters, especially between essential thrombocythemia (ET) and prefibrotic myelofibrosis (MF). Circulating immature hematopoietic cells are variably present in polycythemia vera (PV), ET, and MF. The C‐type lectin hMICL is aberrantly expressed on hematopoietic stem cells in the majority of acute myeloid leukemia patients. However, the hMICL expression in MPN, having varying propensity of leukemic transformation, is unsettled. We hypothesized that enumeration of immature cells by flow cytometry (FCM) could be a discriminatory tool in MPN diagnostics.

Methods

By FCM, we quantified circulating stem cells with aberrant hMICL expression in 39 MPN patients, 10 age‐matched controls, and in leukapheresis products from 10 patients with lymphoproliferative neoplasms. The utility of the FCM assay for discriminating MPN entities was evaluated by applying ROC curve analysis.

Results

While hMICL was absent in control samples, MF patients had significantly more hMICL+ stem cells (median 15.2%) than PV and ET (0.0%, P = .001 and 0.0%, P = .002, respectively). By ROC curve analysis, the presence of hMICL+ stem cells (>0 cells) in peripheral blood reliably discriminates MF from ET and PV with a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 97%.

Conclusion

Enumeration of circulating hMICL+ stem cells by FCM can discriminate between MPN phenotypes and holds potential for monitoring disease evolution.
The effect of reminiscence therapy on quality of life, attitudes to ageing, and depressive symptoms in institutionalized elderly adults with cognitive impairment: A quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Siverová Jarmila , Bužgová Radka
Published: February 2018

The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of group narrative reminiscence therapy on cognition, quality of life, attitudes towards ageing, and depressive symptoms in a group of older adults with cognitive impairment in institutional care. A quasi‐experimental pretest/post‐test control group design was employed. Interventions involving reminiscence therapy with a narrative approach were included in the care plan and implemented in groups of between five and ten respondents once a week for 8 weeks (total 59 participants). The members of the control group (n = 57) received standard care. A study questionnaire was designed to measure demographic characteristics, quality of life (WOHQOL‐BREF, WHOQOL‐OLD), depressive symptoms (GDS), cognition (MMSE), and attitudes towards ageing (AAQ). Reminiscence therapy positively affected older adults’ quality of life (mostly the areas of mental health and social participation), and also their attitudes to ageing and old age. It reduced symptoms of depression, but had no discernible effect on cognitive function. Reminiscence therapy can positively affect selected aspects of quality of life, attitudes towards old age, and symptoms of depression in the elderly in long‐term healthcare facilities. Group reminiscence therapy can be used as a nursing intervention.
Thermal and optical properties of La2O3–Ga2O3– (Nb2O5 or Ta2O5) ternary glasses
Authors: Yoshimoto Kohei , Masuno Atsunobu , Ueda Motoi , Inoue Hiroyuki , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Kawashima Tatsunori
Published: February 2018

La2O3–Ga2O3–M2O5 (M = Nb or Ta) ternary glasses were fabricated using an aerodynamic levitation technique, and their glass‐forming regions and thermal and optical properties were investigated. Incorporation of adequate amounts of Nb2O5 and Ta2O5 drastically improved the thermal stabilities of the glasses against crystallization. Optical transmittance measurements revealed that all the glasses were transparent over a wide wavelength range from the ultraviolet to the mid‐infrared. The refractive indices of the glasses increased and the Abbe number decreased upon substituting Ga2O3 with Nb2O5, and the decrease in the Abbe number was significantly suppressed when Ta2O5 was incorporated into the glass. As a result, excellent compatibility between high refractive index and lower wavelength dispersion was realized in La2O3–Ga2O3–Ta2O5 glasses. Analysis based on the single‐oscillator Drude–Voigt model provided more systematical information and revealed that this compatibility was due to an increase in the electron density of the glass.
Intergranular amorphous films formed by DC electric field in pure zirconia
Authors: Morisaki Nobuhiro , Yoshida Hidehiro , Kobayashi Tetsuro , Tokunaga Tomoharu , Yamamoto Takahisa
Published: February 2018

It is difficult to obtain pure ZrO2 sintered compacts with a bulk style at room temperature because a large volumetric expansion from tetragonal to monoclinic phase (t/m) transformation occurs at around 1000°C, which is lower than the sintering temperature. In contrast, pure monoclinic ZrO2 can be consolidated without shattering using flash‐sintering at 1350°C for 5 minutes under an applied DC electric field of 175 V/cm. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy have revealed that amorphous films are formed along grain boundaries after flash‐sintering at 1350°C for 5 minutes. Monoclinic ZrO2 flash‐sintered compact including the amorphous films are able to survive without shattering through the t/m transformation, as the amorphous films partially absorb the large volumetric expansion arising from the t/m transformation. The formation of the amorphous films results from the severe reducing condition due to the applied DC electric fields during flash‐sintering.
α‐Alumina nanospheres from nano‐dispersed boehmite synthesized by a wet chemical route
Authors: Petrakli Fotini , Arkas Michalis , Tsetsekou Athena
Published: February 2018

In this work, stable aqueous suspensions of nano‐boehmite were developed through a hybrid wet‐chemical route that uses hyperbranched dendritic poly(ethylene)imine (PEI) as template material for boehmite formation aiming at the development of a deagglomerated α‐alumina nanopowder after calcination. The method involves firstly the interaction between the Al precursor and PEI followed by the hydrolysis and polycondensation reactions. The study was aiming to investigate the effect of solids content and pH during reactions on both the stability of the final suspension and the morphology of the resulting nanocrystals. For this purpose, the suspensions were evaluated through viscosity measurements, zeta potential analyses, FT‐IR, DLS and sedimentation studies, whereas after the proper centrifugation, drying, and calcination steps, the as‐received nanocrystals were evaluated through SEM, TEM and XRD studies. In addition, the boehmite nanopowder was studied using Thermogravimetric and Differential Thermal Analysis, whereas its sinterability was evaluated by dilatometric measurements. The investigation showed that the conditions employed affect greatly both the morphology of nanocrystals as well as the dispersion and the stability of the suspensions. The boehmite suspension with the optimum dispersion and stability can lead, after calcination at 1050°C, to a fine deagglomerated α‐alumina nanopowder with a mean size at about 10 nm.
Energetics of bulk lutetium‐doped Ce1−xLuxO2−x/2 compounds
Authors: Yavo Nimrod , Sharma Geetu , Kimmel Giora , Lubomirsky Igor , Navrotsky Alexandra , Yeheskel Ori
Published: February 2018

The dissolution enthalpy, ΔHDS, and the formation enthalpy, ΔHf,ox, of bulk lutetium‐doped cerium oxide (LuDC) were studied at 701°C in molten sodium molybdate. For the composition range of Ce1−XLuXO2−X/2, studied 0 ≤ X ≤ 0.3, the ΔHDS decreases linearly and smoothly with lutetium content according to ΔHDS, kJ/mol = 73.5(1.0)−165.1(5.5)·x). The enthalpy of formation, ΔHf,ox, becomes more exothermic linearly with lutetium content. No anomaly in ΔHf,ox is observed at low Lu2O3 concentration as reported previously for several other rare‐earth‐doped ceria systems, suggesting possible differences in clustering and microstructure, which may also be related to difference in processing conditions.
Preparation of γ‐aluminum oxynitride phosphor with Eu doping by direct nitridation in ammonia and postannealing
Authors: Zhang Li , Luo Huan , Zhou Linan , Liu Qian , Li Junfeng , Zhang Wentao
Published: February 2018

γ‐aluminum oxynitride (γ‐AlON) with spinel structure has attracted much attention for structural and functional application. γ‐AlON powders were successfully prepared by direct nitridation method of Al/Al(OH)3 starting mixture in ammonia and then calcined at high temperature. XRD, SEM, TEM, EDX, and photoluminescence were conducted to investigate the detail procedure and the optical properties of AlON: xEu phosphors. Nitrogen was introduced by the nitridation of metallic aluminum, appropriate Al amount and nitridation condition was necessary to obtain phase pure γ‐AlON. The as‐prepared AlON powders exhibited multifaceted grain morphology with fine particle size (1‐5 μm). Eu2O3 activator was reduced and transformed to EuAl12O19 by reaction with alumina, which remained in the product when x > 0.25%. Under 331 nm excitation, AlON: xEu phosphors exhibited emission bands of 475 and 410 nm. 475 nm band reached a plateau at x = 0.25% due to the solubility of Eu2+ ion in AlON, whereas 410 nm band showed a linear increase in intensity with Eu2+ doping amount, which was believed to be the contribution of EuAl12O19. The present approach combination of direct nitridation in ammonia and postcalcination process showed potential application for AlON ceramic and AlON phosphors.
Optical thermometry of Sm3+ on laser‐induced local heating for precipitation of PbS quantum dots in glasses
Authors: So Byoungjin , Heo Jong
Published: February 2018

Fluorescence intensity ratios (FIRs) of the 640 nm and 602 nm emissions from Sm3+ were recorded at various temperatures T to identify the temperature increases ΔT associated with laser‐induced local heating of Ag nanoparticles. The FIRs increased as intensities of the excitation beam from a 532‐nm continuous‐wave laser increased. Estimated T of the irradiated region increased to as high as 586°C when at laser irradiation of 1.5 W on the surface containing Ag nanoparticles. Local heating due to the surface plasmon resonance of Ag nanoparticles is a main reason for the ΔT that eventually leads to precipitation of PbS quantum dots in glasses.
Delay aversion in attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is mediated by amygdala and prefrontal cortex hyper‐activation
Authors: Van Dessel Jeroen , Sonuga‐Barke Edmund , Mies Gabry , Lemiere Jurgen , Van der Oord Saskia , Morsink Sarah , Danckaerts Marina
Published: February 2018

Background

Experimental research supports delay aversion as a motivational feature of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). To investigate the neurobiology of delay aversion in ADHD, this study examined whether adolescents with ADHD display an unusually strong activation in affective brain regions in response to cues predicting forthcoming delay and whether these effects are (a) delay‐dose dependent and (b) statistically mediate the association between ADHD and self‐reported delay aversion.

Methods

Twenty‐nine right‐handed male adolescents with combined type ADHD and 32 typically developing controls (ages 10–18 years) performed a reaction time task in an MRI scanner. Pretarget cues indicated delay‐related response consequences. One indicated that delay would follow the response irrespective of response speed (CERTAIN DELAY), a second that delay would only follow if the response was too slow (CONDITIONAL DELAY), and a third that no delay would follow the response whatever its speed (NO DELAY). Delay levels were 2, 6, or 14 s. Participants also rated their own delay aversion in everyday life.

Results

Individuals with ADHD rated themselves as more delay averse than controls. Significantly greater activation to CERTAIN DELAY cues relative to NO DELAY cues was found in participants with ADHD compared to controls (bilaterally) in amygdala, anterior insula, temporal pole, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), and ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Amygdala and DLPFC activation strength were strongly and delay‐dose dependently correlated with delay aversion ratings, and statistically mediated the relationship between ADHD status and delay aversion.

Conclusions

When presented with cues predicting impending delay, adolescents with ADHD, relative to controls, displayed a delay‐related increase in activation in amygdala and DLPFC, regions known to be implicated in the processing of aversive events. Future studies should examine the specificity of these effects to delay aversion compared to aversive events in general.
Pro‐apoptotic effects of micro‐ribonucleic acid‐365 on retinal neurons by targeting insulin‐like growth factor‐1 in diabetic rats: An in vivo and in vitro study
Authors: Zheng Kairong , Wang Ning , Shen Yinchen , Zhang Zhihua , Gu Qing , Xu Xu , Qin Qing , Liu Yinchen
Published: February 2018

Aims/Objective

The present study aimed to explore the effects of micro‐ribonucleic acid‐365 (miR‐365) on apoptosis of retinal neurons by targeting insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) in diabetes mellitus rats.

Materials and Methods

High glucose‐induced retinal neurons were assigned into the blank (with no plasmid transfection), negative control (with plasmid transfection), anti‐miR‐365 (transfected miR‐365 antagomir), transfected IGF‐1 short hairpin RNA plasmid (sh‐IGF‐1) and transfected miR‐365 antagomir and IGF‐1 shRNA plasmid (anti‐miR‐365 + sh‐IGF‐1) groups. Proliferation and apoptosis of retinal neurons were detected by 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine assay and Hoechst 33342 staining, respectively. Expressions of miR‐365, IGF‐1, Bcl‐2‐associated X protein (Bax) and Bcl‐2 were determined by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. A control group contained 10 healthy rats. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick‐end labeling staining was used to evaluate apoptosis of retinal neurons in rats.

Results

In the anti‐miR‐365 group, the apoptosis rate and Bax expression were reduced in comparison with the negative control and blank groups, whereas the sh‐IGF‐1 and anti‐miR‐365 + sh‐IGF‐1 groups presented an opposite trend. Compared with the normal group, expressions of miR‐365 and Bax were increased, and expressions of IGF‐1 and Bcl‐2 were decreased, with more apoptotic cells in diabetes mellitus rat models. The sh‐IGF‐1 group had lower Bax expression, and higher expressions of IGF‐1 and Bcl‐2 with fewer apoptotic cells. Additionally, Bax expression was upregulated, expressions of IGF‐1 and Bcl‐2 were downregulated, and apoptotic cells were higher in the anti‐miR‐365 + sh‐IGF‐1 groups than the anti‐miR‐365 group.

Conclusion

The results of the present study suggest that suppressed miR‐365 increases the IGF‐1 expression, leading to anti‐apoptotic effects on retinal neurons in diabetic rats.
Application of an 8% capsaicin patch normalizes epidermal TRPV1 expression but not the decreased intraepidermal nerve fibre density in patients with brachioradial pruritus
Authors: Pereira M.P. , Lüling H. , Dieckhöfer A. , Steinke S. , Zeidler C. , Agelopoulos K. , Ständer S.
Published: February 2018

Background

Topical capsaicin shows efficacy in the treatment of brachioradial pruritus (BRP); however, its mechanisms of action remain unclear.

Objective

The effect of capsaicin on the epidermis (i.e. peripheral expression of non‐neuronal sensory receptors on keratinocytes, morphological changes in innervation) is still unknown. We aimed to investigate the effect of topical capsaicin on keratinocyte expression of TRP channels and on the intraepidermal nerve fibre density (IENFD) in patients with BRP.

Methods

Thirty‐one patients with BRP received an 8% capsaicin patch. Biopsies in lesional and non‐lesional skin were taken to assess epidermal morphology, keratinocyte expression of TRP channels and IENFD before and 3 weeks after treatment.

Results

Treatment with the capsaicin patch led to a significant decrease in itch and paresthetic symptoms (P < 0.05). Keratinocyte morphology is unaltered after capsaicin therapy. Reduced keratinocyte expression of TRPV1 in lesional skin (P = 0.009; n = 9) normalized 3 weeks after treatment (P = 0.016; n = 10), but not the IENFD, which remained reduced in lesional epidermis.

Conclusion

The normalization of the decreased TRPV1 expression may account for the effectiveness of topical capsaicin, which does not reconstitute the reduced IENFD, arguing for a role of epidermal TRPV1 in the maintenance of BRP.