bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upregulation of AKR1C1 and AKR1C3 expression in OPSCC with integrated HPV16 and HPV‐negative tumors is an indicator of poor prognosis
Authors: Huebbers Christian U. , Verhees Femke , Poluschkin Leonard , Olthof Nadine C. , Kolligs Jutta , Siefer Oliver G. , Henfling Mieke , Ramaekers Frans C.S. , Preuss Simon F. , Beutner Dirk , Seehawer Julia , Drebber Uta , Korkmaz Yüksel , Lam Wan L. , Vucic Emily A. , Kremer Bernd , Klussmann Jens P. , Speel Ernst‐Jan M.
Published: October 2018

Different studies have shown that HPV16‐positive OPSCC can be subdivided based on integration status (integrated, episomal and mixed forms). Because we showed that integration neither affects the levels of viral genes, nor those of virally disrupted human genes, a genome‐wide screen was performed to identify human genes which expression is influenced by viral integration and have clinical relevance. Thirty‐three fresh‐frozen HPV‐16 positive OPSCC samples with known integration status were analyzed by mRNA expression profiling. Among the genes of interest, Aldo‐keto‐reductases 1C1 and 1C3 (AKR1C1, AKR1C3) were upregulated in tumors with viral integration. Additionally, 141 OPSCC, including 48 HPV‐positive cases, were used to validate protein expression by immunohistochemistry. Results were correlated with clinical and histopathological data. Non‐hierarchical clustering resulted in two main groups differing in mRNA expression patterns, which interestingly corresponded with viral integration status. In OPSCC with integrated viral DNA, often metabolic pathways were deregulated with frequent upregulation of AKR1C1 and AKR1C3 transcripts. Survival analysis of 141 additionally immunostained OPSCC showed unfavorable survival rates for tumors with upregulation of AKR1C1 or AKR1C3 (both p <0.0001), both in HPV‐positive (p ≤0.001) and ‐negative (p ≤0.017) tumors. OPSCC with integrated HPV16 show upregulation of AKR1C1 and AKR1C3 expression, which strongly correlates with poor survival rates. Also in HPV‐negative tumors, upregulation of these proteins correlates with unfavorable outcome. Deregulated AKR1C expression has also been observed in other tumors, making these genes promising candidates to indicate prognosis. In addition, the availability of inhibitors of these gene products may be utilized for drug treatment.
Cost‐effectiveness of breast cancer screening programme for women in rural China
Authors: Sun Li , Sadique Zia , dos‐Santos‐Silva Isabel , Yang Li , Legood Rosa
Published: October 2018

In low and middle‐income countries mammographic breast cancer screening is prohibitively expensive and a cheaper alternative option is to use ultrasound as the primary screening test. In 2009, China launched a breast cancer screening programme for rural women aged 35–64 years with clinical breast examination coupled with ultrasound as the primary tool. Our study aimed to analyse the cost‐effectiveness of breast screening compared to no screening among Chinese rural women. We developed a Markov model to estimate the lifetime costs and effects for rural women aged 35 years from a societal perspective. Asymptomatic women in the intervention arm were screened every 3 years before age 64 years. Breast cancer in the non‐screening arm can only be diagnosed on presentation of symptoms. Parameter uncertainty was explored using one‐way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. Compared to no screening, breast cancer screening cost $186.7 more and led to a loss of 0.20 quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs). Breast screening was more expensive and did harm to health among rural women with an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $‐916/QALY. The sensitivity analysis identified utility loss from false positives as the factor that most influenced the results, but this did not affect the conclusions. In a rural setting with such low breast cancer incidence, screening for asymptomatic disease is not cost‐effective with current screening tools. Priority should be given to ensure that symptomatic women have proper access to diagnosis and treatment at an early stage as this will lead to mortality reductions without the usual screening harms.
A novel prognosis and segmentation of necrosis (dead cells) in contrast enhanced T1‐weighted glioblastoma tumor with automatic contextual clustering
Authors: Arunachalam Murugan , Savarimuthu Sabeenian Royappan
Published: October 2018

In recent years, mortality rate with high‐grade tumor has been increased significantly especially with glioblastoma (GBM) brain tumor while compared to other malignant brain tumor. Here, the amount of dead cells accommodated with the tumor tissue in GBM brain tumor play a vital task and necessitate an earlier diagnosis of malignancy with the GBM tumor. It inspires to implement new automatic diagnosis system which detects the dead cells and tumor tissue with the GBM brain tumor, such that the survival rate of the diseased can easily be prognosis by the Radiologist and Neurosurgeon. The main objective of this article is to detect the amount of dead cells with respect to tumor tissue associated with the GBM brain tumor which desires the impact factor of the brain tumor. In this framework, initially, the new contrast enhancement modality is incorporated to enhance the gray information over the dead cells and the tumor tissue with the T1‐weighted MRI GBM brain tumor. In this enhancement, the edges of the tumor cells and its dead cells are magnified efficiently. As the noises and outliers with MR image is unpredictable and it experiences the variable amount of noises over the local window, the contextual information over each pixel of the image is adaptively modified with respect to the amount of noise over local window using adaptive contextual clustering. The performance evaluation of the framework is investigated which exhibits the overwhelming result compared to conventional detection techniques.
Tailoring degradation rates of silk fibroin scaffolds for tissue engineering
Authors: Zhang Luzhong , Liu Xin , Li Guicai , Wang Peiyuan , Yang Yumin
Published: October 2018

In tissue regenerative medicine, developing tunable degradation rate of biomaterials for predictive functional outcomes remains critical. The implanted scaffolds should degrade gradually along with the tissue regeneration, and the optimal degradation rate of scaffold depends on the tissue type to be regenerated. Herein, the tunable degradation rates of silk fibroin (SF) scaffolds were fabricated through controlling dissolution, hydrolyzing conditions, and freeze‐drying. The pore size, water adsorption capacity, and mechanical properties of scaffolds were associated with their average molecular weights. Moreover, in vitro cytotoxicity tests demonstrated that rapid degradation of SF scaffolds would facilitate the Schwann cells proliferation. Furthermore, in vitro enzymatic degradation and in vivo subcutaneous implantation experiments illustrated that SF scaffolds degradation behaviors could be well regulated. Immunohistochemistry staining experiments suggested that SF scaffold‐degradation products could promote the endothelial cells proliferation. These results indicate that SF tunable degradation rates are promising candidates in regenerative medicine. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 104–113, 2019.
Biocompatibility of common implantable sensor materials in a tumor xenograft model
Authors: Gray Mark E. , Meehan James , Blair Ewen O. , Ward Carol , Langdon Simon P. , Morrison Linda R. , Marland Jamie R. K. , Tsiamis Andreas , Kunkler Ian H. , Murray Alan , Argyle David
Published: October 2018

Real‐time monitoring of tumor microenvironment parameters using an implanted biosensor could provide valuable information on the dynamic nature of a tumor's biology and its response to treatment. However, following implantation biosensors may lose functionality due to biofouling caused by the foreign body response (FBR). This study developed a novel tumor xenograft model to evaluate the potential of six biomaterials (silicon dioxide, silicon nitride, Parylene‐C, Nafion, biocompatible EPOTEK epoxy resin, and platinum) to trigger a FBR when implanted into a solid tumor. Biomaterials were chosen based on their use in the construction of a novel biosensor, designed to measure spatial and temporal changes in intra‐tumoral O2, and pH. None of the biomaterials had any detrimental effect on tumor growth or body weight of the murine host. Immunohistochemistry showed no significant changes in tumor necrosis, hypoxic cell number, proliferation, apoptosis, immune cell infiltration, or collagen deposition. The absence of biofouling supports the use of these materials in biosensors; future investigations in preclinical cancer models are required, with a view to eventual applications in humans. To our knowledge this is the first documented investigation of the effects of modern biomaterials, used in the production of implantable sensors, on tumor tissue after implantation. © 2018 The Authors.Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part B: Applied Biomaterialspublished by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 1620–1633, 2019.
Citronellal prevents endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis in rats
Authors: Lu Jun‐X. , Guo Chao , Ou Wen‐S. , Jing Yun , Niu Hui‐F. , Song Ping , Li Quan‐Z. , Liu Zhan , Xu Jian , Li Peng , Zhu Mo‐L. , Yin Ya‐L.
Published: October 2018

Background

Atherosclerosis is a chronical inflammatory disease in arterial walls, which is involved in oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Aromatherapy is one of the complementary therapies that use essential oils as the major therapeutic agents to treat several diseases. Citronellal (CT) is a monoterpene predominantly formed by the secondary metabolism of plants, producing antithrombotic, antiplatelet, and antihypertensive activities.

Aim

The aim of the present study is to explore whether aromatherapy with CT improves endothelial function to prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaque in vivo.

Methods

An AS model in carotid artery was induced by balloon injury and vitamin D3 injection in rats fed with a high‐fat diet. The size of the carotid atherosclerotic plaque was determined by ultrasound, oil red, and hematoxylin‐eosin staining. Endothelial function was assessed by measuring acetylcholine‐induced vessel relaxation in an organ chamber.

Results

Administrations of CT (50, 100, and 150 mg/kg) as well as lovastatin dramatically reduced the size of carotid atherosclerotic plaque in rats in a dose‐dependent manner, compared with atherosclerotic rats fed with a high‐fat diet plus balloon injury and vitamin D3. Mechanically, CT improved endothelial dysfunction, increased cell migration, and suppressed oxidative stress and inflammation in vascular endothelium in rats feeding on the high‐fat diet plus balloon injury. Further, CT downregulated the protein levels of sodium‐hydrogen exchanger 1 in rats with atherosclerosis.

Conclusion

CT improves endothelial dysfunction and prevents the growth of atherosclerosis in rats by reducing oxidative stress. Clinically, CT is potentially considered as a medicine to treat patients with atherosclerosis.
Erbin plays a critical role in human umbilical vein endothelial cell migration and tubular structure formation via the Smad1/5 pathway
Authors: Jin Xiaodong , Li Bo , Zhao Yunhe , Liu Xiqiang , Li Yuhua , Song Lina , Cui Lifang , Xie Dan , Li Tao , Zhang Xiufang , Guo Yuan
Published: October 2018

Angiogenesis is an important process in atherosclerosis. ErbB2 was proved to have an important role in vascular development, but it is still unclear whether Erbin expresses in vessels as well as its location and function in the vessels. In the current study, we investigated the location and function of Erbin in human umbilical veins. The human umbilical veins were prepared, and immunofluorescent analysis was performed to determine the expression of Erbin. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured and the lentivirus (LV) containing Erbin RNAi was also prepared. After transfection with the lentivirus, CCK‐8 assay and Annexin V‐PI assay were used for cell proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. Cell migration was studied using the scratch wound healing assay and the transwell assay. The capillary‐like tube formation assay was performed to illustrate the effect of Erbin on HUVEC tube formation. Expression of signaling pathway molecules was assessed with Western blot. The immunofluorescent analysis suggested that Erbin expressed in human umbilical veins and the majority of the Erbin is strongly colocalized in endothelial cells. Although knockdown of Erbin did not affect HUVEC proliferation and apoptosis, it significantly suppressed HUVEC migration and tubular structure formation. Erbin knockdown showed no effect on the ERK1/2 and Smad2/3 signaling pathways but significantly promoted Smad1/5 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation. Ablation of the Smad1/5 pathway decreased the effects of Erbin on endothelial cells. Erbin is mainly localized in endothelial cells in human umbilical veins and plays a critical role in endothelial cell migration and tubular formation via the Smad1/5 pathway.
Phosphatidylethanolamine‐binding protein 4 promotes the epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition in non–small cell lung cancer cells by activating the sonic hedgehog signaling pathway
Authors: Jian Wen , Bai Yinlan , Li Xin , Kang Jian , Lei Yingfeng , Xue Ying
Published: October 2018

Phosphatidylethanolamine‐binding protein 4 (PEBP4), a member of the PEBP family, has been reported to play a pivotal role in tumor progression. However, its role in epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells remains unclear. Here, we investigated the effects and underlying mechanism of PEBP4 in NSCLC EMT. Three human NSCLC cell lines (A549, H1299, and H460) were transfected with pcDNA3.1‐PEBP4 or PEBP4‐targeting small interfering RNA. Then, cell proliferation was analyzed by the MTT assay, and cell migration and invasion were analyzed by the transwell chamber assay. Protein and messenger RNA expression of the related genes and proteins were assessed by Western blot analysis and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Results showed that PEBP4 was highly expressed in the human lung cancer tissues and three human NSCLC cell lines. Pretreatment with pcDNA3.1‐PEBP4 promoted the proliferation, invasion, and migration of NSCLC cells and increased EMT in vitro and lung tumor metastasis in vivo. Whereas knockdown of PEBP4 suppressed NSCLC cell migration, PEBP4, and invasion with prevented EMT. Furthermore, PEBP4 overexpression significantly promoted the transcriptional activity of sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling in NSCLC cells. Further analysis showed that using cyclopamine to inhibit Shh signaling significantly ameliorated the effect on cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, as well as EMT triggered by PEBP4 overexpression. Together, these results suggest that PEBP4 may promote tumorigenesis in NSCLC by regulating cell proliferation and EMT via activation of the Shh signaling pathway.
Neural stem cell‐derived factors inhibit the growth and invasion of U87 stem‐like cells in vitro
Authors: Li Xingxing , Tan Ruolan , Hu Xiaoxuan , Jiao Qian , Rahman Md Saidur , Chen Xinlin , Zhang Pengbo , An Jing , Lu Haixia , Liu Yong
Published: October 2018

Glioma is one of the most common and aggressive tumors in the brain. Significant attention has been paid to the potential use of neural stem/progenitor cells (NSCs/NPCs) as delivery vehicles to cure gliomas. However, whether the NSCs/NPCs or the factors they produced could make a contribution still remains to be seen. In this study, we focused on the inhibitory effects of the factors produced by NSCs/NPCs on the biological behavior of the glioma stem‐like cell in vitro. The human glioma cell line U87 was selected and the U87 stem‐like cells were addressed. After being cultured in the NSC condition medium (NSC‐CM), the viability and proliferation of U87 stem‐like cells were significantly reduced. The invasion of U87 stem‐like cells and the migration of U87 cells were also significantly decreased. However, no significant change was observed in regard to the astrocytic differentiation of U87 stem‐like cells. These indicated that NSCs/NPCs produced some factors and had an inhibitory effect on the growth and invasion but not the terminal differentiation of U87 stem‐like cells. It is worth paying attention to NSCs/NPCs as a high‐potential candidate for glioma treatment.
Preventative tracheal administration of interleukin‐27 attenuates allergic asthma by improving the lung Th1 microenvironment
Authors: Liu Xiaojing , Li Shanqun , Jin Jianjun , Zhu Tao , Xu Kan , Liu Cheng , Zeng Yuzhen , Mao Ruolin , Wang Xiangdong , Chen Zhihong
Published: October 2018

Background: Interleukin‐27 (IL‐27) modulates CD4+ T‐cell differentiation and function. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect and molecular mechanisms of IL‐27 on the development of asthma.

Methods: IL‐27 was intranasally administered in an ovalbumin‐induced asthma model, and lung mononuclear cells and different Th cell classes were detected by fluorescence‐activated cell sorting. The effect and mechanisms of IL‐27 on human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells were investigated by measuring changes in chemotactic factors, cytokines, transcription factors, and signaling pathways.

Results: We found that intranasal administration of IL‐27 could attenuate airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness, upregulate the type 1 T helper (Th1)‐T memory (Tm) cells and regulatory T (Treg) cells subgroups of lung tissue lymphocytes, and diminish the levels of type 2 T helper (Th2) cytokines. IL‐27 upregulated the expression of C‐C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), CCL3, and CCL4 in HBE cells and promoted the production of chemotactic factors to attract monocyte recruitment. Recruited monocytes secondarily secreted IL‐27 to influence HBE cells in a positive feedback cycle. After IL‐27 intervention, signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) phosphorylation increased, while STAT4 and STAT6 phosphorylation declined.

Conclusions: Preventative intranasal administration of IL‐27 can recruit more IL‐27‐secreted monocytes to the airway and change the different T‐cell classes in lung. The improved Th1 environment helps to alleviate Th2‐mediated allergic asthma by repairing the STAT1 pathway but not the STAT4 pathway.
Exercise ameliorates insulin resistance via regulating TGFβ‐activated kinase 1 (TAK1)‐mediated insulin signaling in liver of high‐fat diet‐induced obese rats
Authors: Zhang Yong , Wan Jianyong , Xu Zhen , Hua Tianmiao , Sun Qingyan
Published: October 2018

Exercise is an effective therapy for insulin resistance. However, the underlying mechanism remains to be elucidated. Previous research demonstrated that TGFβ‐activated kinase 1 (TAK1)‐dependent signaling plays a crucial character in hepatic insulin resistance. Hepatic ubiquitin specific protease 4 (USP4), USP18, and dual‐specificity phosphatases 14 (DUSP14) can suppress TAK1 phosphorylation, besides tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated factor 3 (TRAF3) and tripartite motif 8 (TRIM8) promote its phosphorylation. In this study, we tried to verify our hypothesis that exercise improves insulin resistance in high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced obese (DIO) rats via regulating the TAK1 dependent signaling and TAK1 regulators in liver. Forty male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomized into four groups (n = 10): standard diet and sedentary as normal control; fed on HFD and DIO‐sedentary; fed on HFD and DIO‐chronic exercise; and fed on HFD and DIO‐acute exercise. HFD feeding resulted in increased body weight, visceral fat mass, serum FFAs and hepatic lipid deposition, but decreased hepatic glycogen content and insulin sensitivity. Moreover, hepatic TRAF3 and TRIM8 protein levels increased, whereas USP4, USP18, and DUSP14 protein levels were decreased under obese status, which resulted in enhanced TAK1 phosphorylation and impaired insulin signaling. Exercise training, containing chronic and acute mode, both ameliorated insulin resistance. Meanwhile, decreased TAK1, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase 1 (JNK1), and insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) phosphorylation enhanced Akt phosphorylation in liver. Moreover, exercise enhanced USP4 and DUSP14 protein levels, whereas decreased TRIM8 protein levels in obese rats’ liver. These results showed that exercise triggered a crucial modulation in TAK1‐dependent signaling and its regulators in obese rats’ liver, and distinct improvement in insulin sensitivity, which provide new insights into the mechanism by which physical exercise improves insulin resistance.
miR‐145‐5p affects the differentiation of gastric cancer by targeting KLF5 directly
Authors: Zhou Taicheng , Chen Shuang , Mao Xiaoyun
Published: October 2018

Krüppel‐like factor 5 (KLF5) takes part in the pathologic processes of many types of cancer; however, its expression and roles in the biological behavior of gastric cancer remain unknown. TargetScan suggested that miR‐145‐5p is the predicted effective and conserved microRNA (miRNA) that binds to KLF5 through its 3′‐untranslated region (UTR). We investigated the expression of KLF5 and miR‐145‐5p messenger RNA (mRNA) in gastric cancer and then analyzed its role in the biological behavior of gastric cancer cells. Our results indicated that KLF5 expression was detected by immunohistochemistry in 39.7% of the gastric cancer cases and was increased compared with that of the corresponding noncancerous normal mucosa (0.01 < p < 0.05). The poorly differentiated subtype showed positive KLF5 expression, whereas the differentiated subtype showed negative KLF5 expression (p < 0.05). Dual‐luciferase reporter assay suggested KLF5 3′‐UTR was the direct target of miR‐145‐5p. Compared with the differentiated gastric cancer, miR‐145‐5p was downregulated in undifferentiated gastric cancer (p < 0.05). The downregulation of KLF5 expression and differentiation of MGC‐803 and BGC‐823 caused by siKLF5 or miR‐145‐5p mimic transfection. Our results indicated that miR‐145‐5p/KLF5 3′‐UTR affected the differentiation of gastric cancer. miR‐145‐5p was able to promote gastric cancer differentiation by targeting KLF5 3′‐UTR directly. Our data suggest a novel mechanism for cancer differentiation and a new facet to the role of miR‐145‐5p/KLF5 in gastric cancer.
Hydroxytyrosol from olive fruits prevents blue‐light‐induced damage in human keratinocytes and fibroblasts
Authors: Avola Rosanna , Graziano Adriana Carol Eleonora , Pannuzzo Giovanna , Bonina Francesco , Cardile Venera
Published: October 2018

Skin aging is a complex biological process influenced by a combination of endogenous or intrinsic and exogenous or extrinsic factors due to environmental damage. The primary environmental factor that causes human skin aging is the ultraviolet irradiation from the sun. Recently, it was established that the long‐term exposure to light‐emitting‐diode‐generated blue light (LED‐BL) from electronic devices seems to have a relevant implication in the molecular mechanisms of premature photoaging. BL irradiation induces changes in the synthesis of various skin structures through DNA damage and overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), matrix metalloproteinase‐1 and ‐12, which are responsible for the loss of the main components of the extracellular matrix of skin like collagen type I and elastin. In the current study, using human keratinocytes and fibroblasts exposed to specific LED‐BL radiation doses (45 and 15 J/cm
2), we produced an in vitro model of skin photoaging. We verified that, compared with untreated controls, the treatment with LED‐BL irradiation results in the alteration of metalloprotease‐1 (collagenase), metalloprotease‐12 (elastase), 8‐dihydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and collagen type I. Moreover, we showed that the photoaging prevention is possible via the use of hydroxytyrosol extracted from olive fruits, well known for antioxidant properties. Our results demonstrated that hydroxytyrosol protects keratinocytes and fibroblasts from LED‐BL‐induced damage. Thus, hydroxytyrosol might be proposed as an encouraging candidate for the prevention of BL‐induced premature photoaging.
Neuronal extracellular microRNAs miR‐124 and miR‐9 mediate cell–cell communication between neurons and microglia
Authors: Veremeyko Tatyana , Kuznetsova Inna S. , Dukhinova Marina , W. Y. Yung Amanda , Kopeikina Ekaterina , Barteneva Natasha S. , Ponomarev Eugene D.
Published: October 2018

In contrast to peripheral macrophages, microglia in the central nervous system (CNS) exhibit a specific deactivated phenotype; however, it is not clear how this phenotype is maintained. Two alternative hypotheses were postulated recently: (a) microglia differ from peripheral macrophages being derived from the yolk sac (YS), whereas peripheral macrophages originate from bone marrow (BM); (b) microglia acquire a specific phenotype under the influence of the CNS microenvironment. We have previously shown that microglia express miR‐124, which was also induced in BM‐derived macrophages co‐cultured with a neurons. We here investigated the possibility of horizontal transfer of the neuron‐specific microRNAs miR‐124 and miR‐9 from primary neurons to microglia/macrophages. We found that after incubation with neuronal conditioned media (NCM), macrophages downregulated activation markers MHC class II and CD45. Neither cultured adult microglia nor YS‐ and BM‐derived macrophages demonstrated intrinsic levels of miR‐124 expression. However, after incubation with NCM, miR‐124 was induced in both YS‐ and BM‐derived macrophages. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that the NCM contained miR‐124 and miR‐9 in complex with small proteins, large high‐density lipoproteins (HDLs), and exosomes. MiR‐124 and miR‐9 were promptly released from neurons, and this process was inhibited by tetrodotoxin, indicating an important role of neuronal electric activity in secretion of these microRNAs. Incubation of macrophages with exogenous miR‐124 resulted in efficient translocation of miR‐124 into the cytoplasm. This study demonstrates an important role of neuronal miRNAs in communication of neurons with microglia, which favors the hypothesis that microglia acquire a specific phenotype under the influence of the CNS microenvironment.
Process‐based evaluation of the VALUE perfect predictor experiment of statistical downscaling methods
Authors: Soares P. M. M. , Maraun D. , Brands S. , Jury M. W. , Gutiérrez J. M. , San‐Martín D. , Hertig E. , Huth R. , Belušić Vozila A. , Cardoso Rita M. , Kotlarski S. , Drobinski P. , Obermann‐Hellhund A.
Published: October 2018

Statistical downscaling methods (SDMs) are techniques used to downscale and/or bias‐correct climate model results to regional or local scales. The European network VALUE developed a framework to evaluate and inter‐compare SDMs. One of VALUE's experiments is the perfect predictor experiment that uses reanalysis predictors to isolate downscaling skill. Most evaluation papers for SDMs employ simple statistical diagnostics and do not follow a process‐based rationale. Thus, in this paper, a process‐based evaluation has been conducted for the more than 40 participating model output statistics (MOS, mostly bias correction) and perfect prognosis (PP) methods, for temperature and precipitation at 86 weather stations across Europe.

The SDMs are analysed following the so‐called “regime‐oriented” technique, focussing on relevant features of the atmospheric circulation at large to local scales. These features comprise the North Atlantic Oscillation, blocking and selected Lamb weather types and at local scales the bora wind and the western Iberian coastal‐low level jet.

The representation of the local weather response to the selected features depends strongly on the method class. As expected, MOS is unable to generate process sensitivity when it is not simulated by the predictors (ERA‐Interim). Moreover, MOS often suffers from an inflation effect when a predictor is used for more than one station. The PP performance is very diverse and depends strongly on the implementation. Although conditioned on predictors that typically describe the large‐scale circulation, PP often fails in capturing the process sensitivity correctly. Stochastic generalized linear models supported by well‐chosen predictors show improved skill to represent the sensitivities.
Ridge preservation procedures revisited: A randomized controlled trial to evaluate dimensional changes with two different surgical protocols
Authors: Hong Heather R. , Chen Chia‐Yu , Kim David M. , Machtei Eli E.
Published: October 2018

Background

The effect of different surgical techniques for ridge preservation on soft tissue parameters has seldom been investigated. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of two different ridge preservation techniques on soft and hard tissue dimensions.

Methods

Thirty patients requiring tooth extraction were randomly allocated to either control group C (allograft covered with a non‐crosslinked collagen membrane with primary closure) or experimental group E (allograft covered with cross‐linked collagen membrane left exposed). Sites were surgically re‐entered at 6 months. Soft and hard tissue measurements, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), and cast measurements were taken at baseline and 6 months.

Results

Twenty‐eight patients were included in this analysis. When the two treatment groups were compared, the width of the buccal keratinized tissue in the E group showed an increase of 0.43 ± 0.42 mm compared to net loss of 1.57 ± 0.51 mm for the C (P = 0.006). Similarly, buccal tissue thickness has increased in the E group 0.46 ± 0.22 mm compared to a loss of 0.15 ± 0.23 mm in the C group (P = 0.068). Volumetric assessment of the changes in the alveolar ridge for the E group showed a slight decrease (68.3 ± 17 mm3) whereas the C group has experienced almost double this loss (107.5 ± 11 mm3; P = 0.07). Crestal width, measured on the CBCT scan, has shown significant reduction in the C group (4.18 ± 0.56 mm) compared to only 1.74 ± 0.4 mm in the E group (P = 0.003).

Conclusion

Crosslinked collagen membrane with allograft placed intentionally non‐submerged resulted in better preservation of the keratinized tissues (width and thickness) with similar and at times better osseous preservation following extraction.
Hypermobile upper lip is highly prevalent among patients seeking treatment for gummy smile
Authors: Andijani Reem I. , Tatakis Dimitris N.
Published: October 2018

Background

Excessive gingival display (EGD), or a gummy smile (GS), is a mucogingival deformity that can be of concern to patients. The prevalence of GS etiologies, such as altered passive eruption (APE) and hypermobile upper lip (HUL), has not been reported. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of APE and HUL in patients seeking to correct their GS, and to determine possible prevalence differences among patients with different gingival display (GD) levels.

Methods

During clinical screening of patients interested in participating in a GS treatment study, GD diagnosis, GD level, and presence of APE and/or HUL were determined. Descriptive statistics were calculated for APE, HUL, and GD group prevalence. Fisher's exact test was used to determine difference in frequency of etiologies between GD groups.

Results

Fifty‐six patients were clinically screened (27.2 ± 7.2 years old; 85.7% females; 94.6% with GD, 5.4% without GD). Among patients having GD, 75.5% presented with GD≥4 mm and 24.5% with GD<4 mm. Prevalence of etiologies was: 20.8% APE alone, 45.3% HUL alone, and 34% APE and HUL. The prevalence difference between GD≥4 mm and GD<4 mm groups was statistically significant (p<0.0001); for ≥4 mm GD: 5% presented with APE alone, 50% HUL alone, and 45% APE and HUL; for <4 mm GD: 69.2% presented with APE alone and 30.8% HUL alone.

Conclusion

Among patients seeking GS treatment, HUL is the most predominant etiology and it is often present in combination with APE.
Extraction of specific egg yolk antibodies and application in chitosan coating: effect on microbial and sensory properties of rainbow trout fillet during chilled storage
Authors: Ehsani Ali , Naghibi Seyedeh S , Aminzare Majid , Keykhosravi Kobra , Hashemi Mohammad
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the effect of chitosan coating enriched with extracted egg yolk antibodies on microbial and sensory quality of rainbow trout fillet during refrigeration (4 ± 1 °C). Firstly, bacterial antigen suspensions (total psychrophilic bacteria, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Shewanella putrefaciens) were injected into the breast muscles of chickens. Eggs of immunized chickens were then collected to isolate immunoglobulin from egg yolks (IgY). Fresh fish fillets were coated by chitosan solution containing different types of IgY separately, at two concentrations (60 and 90 mg mL−1), refrigerated for 16 days and analysed for total viable count, psychrotrophic, Pseudomonas spp., P. fluorescens and S. putrefaciens count as well as sensorial properties.

RESULTS

The tested microbial values increased in all samples during the storage period; however, CH + IgY treated samples could significantly retard microbial growth compared to control. The shelf life of CH + IgY‐P samples was extended for about 4 days, while it was extended for about 8 days in CH + IgY‐S and CH + IgY‐T samples, when they were compared to control (p < 0.05). Higher scores for sensory attributes were also observed in CH + IgY treated samples, especially in CH + IgY‐S samples until the end of storage period.

CONCLUSIONS

Accordingly, use of chitosan coating containing IgY increases the microbial and sensory quality of fish flesh at 4 °C. Therefore, given the consumer interest in natural additives, chitosan coating containing IgY can be a promising candidate. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Determination of macro, micro, trace essential, and toxic elements in Garcinia cambogia fruit and its anti‐obesity commercial products
Authors: Jamila Nargis , Khan Naeem , Hwang In Min , Choi Ji Yeon , Nho Eun Yeong , Khan Sadiq Noor , Atlas Amir , Kim Kyong Su
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Garcinia (Clusiaceae) species are traditionally used as flavoring agents in curries and to cure several human health complications. This study investigated 31 macro, micro, and trace elements in microwave‐assisted digested samples of Garcinia cambogia fruit and its anti‐obesity commercial products by inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES) and inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometric (ICP‐MS) techniques. The methods were also validated using the coefficient of determination (R2), limits of detection and quantification (LOD, LOQ), precision (CV%), analysis of certified reference materials, spiking recovery experiments, and participation in an accredited laboratory proficiency test organized by Food Analysis Performance Assessment Scheme (FAPAS).

RESULTS

Quality assurance confirmed that the methods were efficient and in accordance with criteria set by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). In the elemental analysis, the analyzed macro, micro, and trace essential elements were present in appreciable concentrations, which could meet the human nutritional requirements. Traces of toxic elements were within safe limits.

CONCLUSION

From the results of the current study, the fruit and its commercial products could be considered potential sources of mineral elements without posing any threats to consumers. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of selenium enrichment on metabolism of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruit during postharvest ripening
Authors: Puccinelli Martina , Malorgio Fernando , Terry Leon A , Tosetti Roberta , Rosellini Irene , Pezzarossa Beatrice
Published: October 2018

Background

Selenium (Se) enrichment of plants seems effective in enhancing the health‐related properties of produce and in delaying plant senescence and fruit ripening. The current study investigated the effects of Se on tomato fruit ripening. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants were grown in hydroponics with different Se‐enriched nutrient solutions. Se, as sodium selenate, was added at a rate of 0 mg L−1 (control), 1, and 1.5 mg L−1.

Results

Selenium was absorbed by roots and translocated to leaves and fruit. Enrichment with Se did not significantly affect the qualitative parameters of fruit at commercial harvest; instead it delayed ripening by affecting specific ripening‐related processes (respiration, ethylene production, color evolution) during postharvest. In the current experiment 100 g of tomato hydroponically grown with a 1.5 mg Se L−1 enriched solution provided a total of 23.7 µg Se. Selenium recommended daily intake is 60 µg for women and 70 µg for men; thus the daily consumption of 100 g of enriched tomato would not lead to Se toxicity but would provide a good Se diet supplementation.

Conclusions

The cultivation of tomato plants in a Se‐enriched solution appeared effective in producing tomato fruit with improved performance during storage and postharvest shelf life, and also with greater potential health‐promoting properties. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
A novel in‐capillary assay for dynamically monitoring fast binding between antibody and peptides using CE
Authors: Wang Jianhao , Qiu Lin , You Ying , Ma Luping , Zhu Zhilan , Yang Li , Wang Jianpeng , Wang Xiang , Liu Li , Liu Xiaoqian , Chang Yufeng , Li Jie , Gao Liqian , Li Yong‐Qiang
Published: October 2018

Nowadays, despite numerous techniques available for the detection of antibody–peptide binding, sensitivity and detection limit inflow still remains a major challenge. Herein, we report a strategy for the detection of binding inflow of monoclonal anti‐FLAG M2 antibody and 5,6‐carboxyfluorescein‐labeled FLAG tag in capillary. Antibody and peptides were sequentially injected into the capillary where they mixed and bound together. Capillary electrophoresis with fluorescence detection was employed to monitor the binding process, and the results showed that the efficacy of the antibody–peptide binding in capillary (in‐capillary assay) is affected by the stoichiometry. Compared to the out‐capillary assay, this novel assay showed different KD values and required a very short detection time, thus showing great potential for rapid detection as well as other applications. Additionally, our novel assay can be used to investigate the stability of the antibody–peptide complex. The addition of excess DYKDDDDK or TAMRA‐DYKDDDDK, with similar binding priorities with M2, can leads to dissociation of the complex with a two‐step mechanism including dissociation and association. We believed that our developed method can be extended to monitor wide range of other biomolecule interactions.
Neutralization techniques as a moderating mechanism: Ethically questionable behavior in the Romanian consumer context
Authors: Fukukawa Kyoko , Zaharie Monica‐Maria , Romonţi‐Maniu Andreea‐Ioana
Published: October 2018

On the basis of an empirical investigation in the context of Romania, this paper identifies a moderating role of neutralization techniques within ethically questionable consumer behavior. The quantitative study is based on a synthesized model of theory of planned behavior incorporating the factor of perceived unfairness and neutralization techniques. Significantly, neutralization techniques are shown to have a negative, but definite impact on the action to behave unethically. This leads to their consideration as a process of thinking, rather than as static judgment. As such, neutralization techniques are conceptually distinctive to the other factors. The paper analyzes the results specific to the Romanian context, but noting implications for an understanding of the morality of markets with similar historical, political, and economic conditions. Overall, the findings offer a more nuanced reading of consumer behavior. The paper places moral flexibility in terms of a specific cultural context, but also reveals how neutralization techniques can moderate ethically questionable behaviors beyond matters of self‐interest, which, in turn, has implications for how companies can consider their responsibilities in relation to their customers.
A feasibility study on an automated method to generate patient‐specific dose distributions for radiotherapy using deep learning
Authors: Chen Xinyuan , Men Kuo , Li Yexiong , Yi Junlin , Dai Jianrong
Published: October 2018

Purpose

To develop a method for predicting optimal dose distributions, given the planning image and segmented anatomy, by applying deep learning techniques to a database of previously optimized and approved Intensity‐modulated radiation therapy treatment plans.

Methods

Eighty cases of early‐stage nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) were included in the study. Seventy cases were chosen randomly as the training set and the remaining as the test set. The inputs were the images with structures, with each target and organs at risk (OARs) assigned a unique label. The outputs were dose maps, including coarse dose maps and converted fine dose maps (FDM) from convolution. Two types of input images with structures were used in the model building. One type of input included the images (with associated structures) without manipulation. The second type of input involved modifying the image gray label with information from radiation beam geometry. ResNet101 was chosen as the deep learning network for both. The accuracy of predicted dose distributions was evaluated against the corresponding dose as used in the clinic. A global three‐dimensional gamma analysis was calculated for the evaluation.

Results

The proposed model trained with the two different sets of input images and structures could both predict patient‐specific dose distributions accurately. For the out‐of‐field dose distributions, the model obtained from the input with radiation geometry performed better (dose difference in %, 4.7 ± 6.1% vs 5.5 ± 7.9%, P < 0.05). The mean Gamma pass rates of dose distributions predicted with both types of input were comparable for most OARs (P > 0.05), except for the bilateral optic nerves and the optic chiasm.

Conclusions

The proposed system with radiation geometry added to the input is a promising method to generate patient‐specific dose distributions for radiotherapy. It can be applied to obtain the dose distributions slice‐by‐slice for planning quality assurance and for guiding automated planning.
Deep learning in medical imaging and radiation therapy
Authors: Sahiner Berkman , Pezeshk Aria , Hadjiiski Lubomir M. , Wang Xiaosong , Drukker Karen , Cha Kenny H. , Summers Ronald M. , Giger Maryellen L.
Published: October 2018

The goals of this review paper on deep learning (DL) in medical imaging and radiation therapy are to (a) summarize what has been achieved to date; (b) identify common and unique challenges, and strategies that researchers have taken to address these challenges; and (c) identify some of the promising avenues for the future both in terms of applications as well as technical innovations. We introduce the general principles of DL and convolutional neural networks, survey five major areas of application of DL in medical imaging and radiation therapy, identify common themes, discuss methods for dataset expansion, and conclude by summarizing lessons learned, remaining challenges, and future directions.
Impacts of Nonnative Brown Trout on Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout in a Tributary Stream
Authors: Al-Chokhachy Robert , Sepulveda Adam J.
Published: October 2018

Nonnative trout are a considerable threat to native salmonids, yet our understanding of the mechanisms behind interspecific interactions remains limited. We evaluated the impacts of nonnative Brown Trout Salmo salar on a population of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri in Montana. We contrasted diets, growth, and survival of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout occurring in allopatry (i.e., where no Brown Trout were present) with individuals sympatric (i.e., co-occurring) with nonnative Brown Trout. We assessed summer and autumn diets using gastric lavage methods and survival and growth using mark–recapture analyses. Overlap in diets at sites where Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout were sympatric with Brown Trout was high during July (Horn's index: H = 0.94) and October (H = 0.83). In the presence of Brown Trout, Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout growth rates were significantly lower for juvenile (<175 mm) length and adult (≥175 mm) length and mass than in allopatric sites. Allopatric Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout survival was greater across size-classes; the most pronounced difference was in the age-2 size-class (125–175 mm). Together, these results in concert with observed changes in length-frequency data, indicating a considerable lack of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout recruitment where they are sympatric with Brown Trout, suggest the negative implications of Brown Trout are notable.
Sustainable synthesis of bio‐based hyperbranched ester and its application for preparing soft polyvinyl chloride materials
Authors: Tong Hanqing , Hai Jinping
Published: October 2018

In this study, bio‐based hyperbranched ester was synthesized from castor oil. The chemical structure of the bio‐based hyperbranched ester obtained was characterized with Fourier transform infrared and 1H NMR spectra. Soft polyvinyl chloride (PVC) materials were prepared via thermoplastic blending at 160 °C using bio‐based hyperbranched ester as plasticizer. The performances including the thermal stability, glass transition temperature (Tg), crystallinity, tensile properties, solvent extraction resistance and volatility resistance of soft PVC materials incorporating bio‐based hyperbranched ester were investigated and compared with the traditional plasticizer dioctyl phthalate (DOP). The results showed that bio‐based hyperbranched ester enhanced the thermal stability of the PVC materials. The Tg of PVC incorporating bio‐based hyperbranched ester was 23 °C, lower than that of PVC/DOP materials at 28 °C. Bio‐based hyperbranched ester showed a better plasticizing effect, solvent extraction resistance and volatility resistance than DOP. The plasticizing mechanism is also discussed. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Highly reinforcing and thermal stabilizing effect of imide structure on polyurethane foam
Authors: Li Chengjie , Hui Bing , Ye Lin
Published: October 2018

In order to improve the heat‐resistant property of polyurethane foams, a series of polyurethane‐imide foams (PUIFs) with different contents of the imide group were fabricated via the prepolymer foaming method. It was found that the PUIFs showed a closed cellular structure with almost circular cell shapes. With increasing content of imide groups, the cell wall thickness and apparent density of the foams gradually increased, and the cell size showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing. All foams exhibited a multistage deformation response when subjected to compressive loading, and the compressive strength and modulus of the PUIFs were significantly improved by incorporation of the imide group, increasing by roughly 5500% and 6400% for the PUIF with 34.25 wt% imide groups, indicating the remarkable reinforcing effect of the imide group on the PUIF. TGA and dynamic mechanical analysis showed that with increase of the imide group content the thermal degradation temperatures, the char yield and the degradation activation energy for the PUIFs sharply increased, while the storage modulus (G′) and Tg were obviously improved, reaching 575 MPa and 283 °C respectively, much higher than that of most reported PU foams, indicating the remarkable enhancement of the thermal mechanical stability of the PUIF. The heat insulation of the PUI system was also enhanced by the incorporation of imide groups. Such PUIFs showed potential applications for use in high temperature environments. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry