bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic solid‐phase extraction based on carbon nanosphere@Fe3O4 for enantioselective determination of eight triazole fungicides in water samples
Authors: Wang Zhaokun , Wang Xia , Li Shuang , Jiang Zhen , Guo Xingjie
Published: February 2019

In this work, a carbon nanosphere decorated by Fe3O4 nanoparticles was prepared, characterized and used as the magnetic adsorbent. Eight commonly used chiral triazole fungicides, including penconazole, uniconazole, paclobutrazol, triazolone, tebuconazole, hexaconazole, triticonazole and epoxiconazole were extracted from two environmental water samples (river water and lake water) by magnetic solid‐phase extraction, followed by the enantiomeric analysis on a Chiralpark IC column coupled with a triple quadrupole mass spectrometry to evaluate their possible stereoselective degradation occurring in the water samples. The possible factors affecting the extraction performance, such as amount of used adsorbents, pH and ionic strength of water solution, types and volumes of desorption solvents were systematically investigated. Under the optimum conditions, extraction yields of eight triazole fungicides were above 80% and the concentration factors were as high as 1000. Method detection and quantification limits for the enantiomers of eight triazole fungicides were in the range of 0.56–6.95 ng/L. Satisfactory accuracy (relative recovery 77.8–93.5%), good intraday precision (RSD 4.3–9.8%) and interday precision (RSD 3.1–7.9%) were also obtained. The developed method provided the simplicity of operation, rapidity and high enrichment factor, which can be used to monitor and evaluate the behavior of the individual enantiomer of chiral triazole fungicides.
A sensitive dispersive micro solid‐phase extraction coupled with high performance liquid chromatography for determination of three flavonoids in complex matrics by using crab shell as a sorbent
Authors: Chu Chu , Wang Shan , Zhang Huan , Liu Caijing , Jiang Luyi , Tang Yiping , Yan Jizhong
Published: February 2019

A sensitive dispersive micro solid‐phase extraction coupled with HPLC has been developed for preconcentration and determination of three flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin) in complex matrix samples. Parameters that affect extraction efficiency have been optimized. The optimal extraction conditions are using 2 μg/mL of crab shell as the sorbent, extraction for 2 min at pH 7, and then eluting with 100 μL of methanol. As a result, the method shows good linearity (R > 0.9994), low LODs (even 0.08 ng/ml) and satisfactory recovery in real honey and rat urine samples. As an eco‐friendly biomaterial, crab shell powder is used as sorbent in pretreatment of flavonoids, and its adsorption mechanism has been investigated for the first time. Compared with the other reported methods, the proposed strategy is time‐saving, eco‐friendly, and highly sensitive using HPLC (even achieving MS grade sensitivity).
Electrodeposited Manganese Oxide on Tailored 3D Bimetallic Nanofoams for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Siwek Katarzyna Irena , Eugénio Sónia , Silva Teresa M. , de Fatima Montemor Maria
Published: February 2019

Three‐dimensional (3D) electrode design has great advantages over its two‐dimensional (2D) counterparts, including higher mass loading of active material, enhanced ion diffusion, and electron charge transfer. Commercial 3D porous structures (i.e., Ni foams) do not fit the purpose of the ideal 3D electrode for supercapacitors, in which surface area (per cm2) is more important than large pore volume. These characteristics, however, can be tuned by the dynamic hydrogen bubble template (DHBT) electrodeposition, a route that is used to tailor 3D nanostructured (multi‐) metallic porous surfaces. In addition to the higher surface area and tailored porosity, these 3D nanostructures can be subsequently functionalized with different species such as metal oxides or other compounds. Therefore, a facile two‐step electrochemical fabrication of 3D composite electrode composed of a bimetallic foam functionalized with manganese (Mn) oxide is proposed. The effect of applied current densities on the distribution and structure of Mn oxide (MnOx) electrodeposited over the bare foam is discussed. The results demonstrate that this route paves the way to design high‐surface‐area architectures for charge storage electrodes with enhanced electrochemical performance (194 F g−1 mg−1 of electrodeposited MnOx at 0.5 A g−1) and high charge–discharge rate capabilities (91% capacitance retention at 20 A g−1) for supercapacitor applications.
Fate of pioneering vegetation patches in a dynamic meandering river
Authors: Kleinhans Maarten , Douma Harke , Addink Elisabeth A.
Published: February 2019

Fluvial biomorphodynamics in actively meandering rivers entail interactions between hydromorphodynamics and pioneering tree species that have eco‐engineering effects. Here we study spatiotemporal patterns of vegetation patches smaller than 150 m2 in a 4 km reach of the river Allier in France in order to unravel causes for tree persistence and mortality and identify spatial trends across the river valley. To this end we analysed aerial photographs by object‐based image analysis over a period of 56 years and tracked individual patches through time. Furthermore the cover and surface age of the study reach were classified. The large‐scale shifts of channels, bars and vegetation are consistent with the meandering process and chute cutoffs. However, the spatiotemporal patterns of the vegetation patches are surprising in that they are ubiquitous and have ages up to decades on the highly dynamic meander belt, but hardly expand into larger vegetation patches. Patches disappear exponentially as a function of their age, and faster so in the last decades. Causes are amalgamation into the riparian forest flanking the meander belt and mortality likely due to desiccation or erosion. Patches have a higher probability of survival when further away from the active channel and closer to high vegetation patches and valley boundary. The window of opportunity of vegetation settlement widens towards the valley boundaries and in floodplain lows of former channels and chutes. These results imply a gradual cross‐valley gradient of riparian vegetation settling, survival and succession. © 2019 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Triacylglycerol, fatty acid, and phytochemical profiles in a new red sorghum variety (Ji Liang No. 1) and its antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties
Authors: Zhang Yaqiong , Li Ming , Gao Hang , Wang Bo , Tongcheng Xu , Gao Boyan , Yu Liangli (Lucy)
Published: February 2019

In this study, a new red sorghum variety (Ji Liang No. 1) was investigated for its triacylglycerol (TAG) and fatty acid profiles, carotenoid and tocopherol compositions, total phenolic, total flavonoid and phenolic acid contents, and antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. A total of 17 TAGs were identified in the red sorghum oil. Linoleic and oleic acids were the primary fatty acids, contributing more than 80% of the total fatty acids. β‐Carotene was the primary carotenoid at a level of 26.14 μg/g. α‐, γ‐, and δ‐tocopherols were at levels of 0.19, 4.08, and 0.10 μg/g, respectively. Moreover, acetone–water (60:40, v/v) extract of the red sorghum exhibited the greatest total phenolic content of 2.77 mg GAE/g and total flavonoid content of 5.44 mg RE/g. The extract had scavenging capacities against DPPH, ABTS+, and peroxyl radicals and suppressed LPS stimulated IL‐1β, IL‐6, and COX‐2 mRNA expressions in a dose‐dependent manner. Ferulic, p‐coumaric, isoferulic, and p‐hydroxybenzoic acids were found in the red sorghum, with ferulic acid as the predominant phenolic acid and mostly in an insoluble bound form. These data indicated a potential utilization of the red sorghum in health‐promoting functional food or supplemental products.
Modulatory effects of miracle fruit ethanolic extracts on glucose uptake through the insulin signaling pathway in C2C12 mouse myotubes cells
Authors: Han Yi‐Chun , Wu Ju‐Yu , Wang Chin‐Kun
Published: February 2019

Miracle fruit, Synsepalum dulcificum, is commonly known to be an alternative sweetener. It makes sour food taste sweet by affecting the tongue's taste receptors. It also shows beneficial health effects, such as antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antihyperglycemic activities. This study was conducted to investigate the antidiabetic effects of miracle fruit flesh (MF) and seed (MS) ethanolic extracts and the underlying mechanisms. Differentiated C2C12 myotubes were treated with the MF or MS extract (1–1,000 μg/ml) or metformin (1 mM) in the presence or absence of insulin. Compared with metformin, the MF extract significantly increased the intake of 2‐(N‐(7‐nitrobenz‐2‐oxa‐1, 3‐diazol‐4‐yl) amino)‐2‐deoxyglucose (2‐NBDG). The MF extract also upregulated insulin receptor, phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase, and glucose transporter 4 expressions. These results reveal the antidiabetic effects of miracle fruit.
Improving Water and Nutrient Use Efficiency in Rice by Changing Crop Establishment Methods, Application of Microbial Inoculations, and Zn Fertilization
Authors: Shahane Amit Anil , Shivay Yashbir Singh , Prasanna Radha , Kumar Dinesh
Published: February 2019

A field experiment was conducted during the wet seasons of 2013 and 2014 to evaluate the effect of three rice establishment methods: viz. puddled transplanted rice (PTR), system of rice intensification (SRI) and aerobic rice system (ARS), two cyanobacteria based inoculants, viz. Anabaena sp (CR1) + Providencia sp (PR3) consortium and Anabaena–Pseudomonas (An‐Ps) biofilm formulation, and zinc (Zn) fertilization on the rice yield, water productivity, and nutrient use efficiency. The yields of rough, brown and milled rice were highest in SRI, which was on par with PTR and both methods proved significantly superior to ARS in both years. The total water productivity of rough and brown rice in the first year was significantly higher in SRI. The SRI method saved 21.9% and 27.4% irrigation water over PTR, and savings in ARS were 37.4% and 50.8% in first and second year respectively, over PTR. The use of An‐Ps biofilm formulation along with 75% RDN improved the agronomic use efficiency of both nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilizers applied. On the basis of the present study, it can be concluded that SRI improved rice yields and water productivity; while involvement of An‐Ps biofilm formulation can be recommended for improved nutrient use efficiency.
Impact of external carbon source addition on methane emissions from a vertical subsurface‐flow constructed wetland
Authors: Liu Xiaoling , Fu Xiaoying , Pu Aiping , Zhang Ke , Luo Hongbing , Anderson Bruce C. , Li Mei , Huang Bo , Hu Limei , Fan Liangqian , Chen Wei , Chen Jia , Fu Shuzhi
Published: February 2019

In this study, different concentrations of urea (0, 12.1, 30, 45, 61 and 80 mmol·L−1) were added separately, as external carbon sources, to a two‐stage vertical subsurface‐flow constructed wetland (VSSF CW) where Cyperus alternifolius L. was planted, with the aim of understanding methane (CH4) emissions driven by urea. Results indicate that the average CH4 emissions from a two‐stage VSSF CW were 6.88, 7.11, 6.22, 7.45, 5.06 and 2.80 mol·m−2·day−1, corresponding to urea concentrations of 0, 12.1, 30, 45, 61 and 80 mmol·L−1 added in the VSSF CW, respectively. Urea as a carbon source had an average of 31.57% of influent total organic carbon (TOC). It was transformed into CH4‐C, of which CH4‐C/TOCinfluent may be be considered as an important component when anthropogenic methanogenesis from treatment wetlands was driven by carbon sources or carbon loading. Methane emissions were at their lowest when the C/N ratio was 5.89, at a urea concentration of 80 mmol·L−1. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicates that CH4 correlated positively with temperature and redox conditions (Eh). Methane emissions driven by urea in the two‐stage VSSF CW were found to be in accordance with the second‐rate dynamics kinetic model (kinetic constant = 22.94 mg CH4·h−1, R2 = 0.99), which can be considered as a high level of CH4 emissions. It indicates that external carbon sources can influence CH4 emissions from two‐stage VSSF CW significantly. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Early embryonic NG2 glia are exclusively gliogenic and do not generate neurons in the brain
Authors: Huang Wenhui , Guo Qilin , Bai Xianshu , Scheller Anja , Kirchhoff Frank
Published: February 2019

In the central nervous system, the type I transmembrane glycoprotein NG2 (nerve‐glia antigen 2) is only expressed by pericytes and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). Therefore, OPCs are also termed NG2 glia. Their fate during development has been investigated systematically in several genetically modified mouse models. Consensus exists that postnatal NG2 glia are restricted to the oligodendrocyte (OL) lineage, while, at least in the forebrain, embryonic NG2 glia could also generate astrocytes. In addition, experimental evidence for a neurogenic potential of NG2 glia in the early embryonic brain (before E16.5) has been provided. However, this observation is still controversial. Here, we took advantage of reliable transgene expression in NG2‐EYFP and NG2‐CreERT2 knock‐in mice to study the fate of early embryonic NG2 glia. While pericytes were the main cells with robust NG2 gene activity at E12.5, only a few OPCs expressed NG2 at this early stage of embryogenesis. Subsequently, this proportion of OPCs increased from 3% (E12.5) to 11% and 25% at E14.5 and E17.5, respectively. When Cre DNA recombinase activity was induced at E12.5 and E14.5 and pups were analyzed at postnatal day 0 (P0) and P10, the vast majority of recombined cells, besides pericytes, belonged to the OL lineage cells, with few astrocytes in the ventral forebrain. In other brain regions such as brain stem, cerebellum, and olfactory bulb only OL lineage cells were detected. Therefore, we conclude that NG2 glia from early embryonic brain are restricted to a gliogenic fate and do not differentiate into neurons after birth.
Tumor Microenvironment Regulation by the Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Transmission Mediator Golgi Protein 73 in Mice
Authors: Wei Congwen , Yang Xiaoli , Liu Ning , Geng Jin , Tai Yanhong , Sun Zhenyu , Mei Gangwu , Zhou Pengyu , Peng Yumeng , Wang Chenbin , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhang Pingping , Geng Yunqi , Wang Yujie , Zhang Xiaotong , Liu Xin , Zhang Yanhong , Wu Feixiang , He Xiang , Zhong Hui
Published: February 2019

The unfolded protein response (UPR) signal in tumor cells activates UPR signaling in neighboring macrophages, which leads to tumor‐promoting inflammation by up‐regulating UPR target genes and proinflammatory cytokines. However, the molecular basis of this endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress transmission remains largely unclear. Here, we identified the secreted form of Golgi protein 73 (GP73), a Golgi‐associated protein functional critical for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) growth and metastasis, is indispensable for ER stress transmission. Notably, ER stressors increased the cellular secretion of GP73. Through GRP78, the secreted GP73 stimulated ER stress activation in neighboring macrophages, which then released cytokines and chemokines involved in the tumor‐associated macrophage (TAM) phenotype. Analysis of HCC patients revealed a positive correlation of GP73 with glucose‐regulated protein 78 (GRP78) expression and TAM density. High GP73 and CD206 expression was associated with poor prognosis. Blockade of GP73 decreased the density of TAMs, inhibited tumor growth, and prolonged survival in two mouse HCC models. Conclusion: Our findings provide insight into the molecular mechanisms of extracellular GP73 in the amplification and transmission of ER stress signals.
Prominin‐1 Promotes Biliary Fibrosis Associated With Biliary Atresia
Authors: Zagory Jessica A. , Fenlon Michael , Dietz William , Zhao Menghan , Nguyen Marie V. , Trinh Pavin , Adoumie Maeva , Park Alex , Xu Jiabo , Mahdi Elaa , Glazier Alison , Malkoff Nicolas , Mavila Nirmala , Wang Kasper S. ,   in conjunction with the Childhood Liver Disease Research Network
Published: February 2019

In patients with biliary atresia (BA), the extent of intrahepatic biliary fibrosis negatively correlates with successful surgical bypass of the congenital cholangiopathy as well as subsequent transplant‐free survival. We recently linked the expansion of a population of prominin‐1 (Prom1)‐expressing hepatic progenitor cells to biliary fibrogenesis. Herein, we hypothesized that Prom1‐expressing progenitor cells play a role in BA‐associated fibrosis. Rhesus rotavirus (RRV)‐mediated experimental BA was induced in newborn mice homozygous for the transgene Prom1cre‐ert2‐nlacz
, which was knocked in to the Prom1 gene locus, thus creating functional Prom1 knockout (KO) mice, and their wildtype (WT) littermates. Clinical data and tissue samples from BA infants from the Childhood Liver Disease Research Consortium were analyzed. Extrahepatic biliary obliteration was present in both WT and KO mice; there was no difference in serum total bilirubin (TBili) levels. The intrahepatic periportal expansion of the PROM1pos cell population, typically observed in RRV‐induced BA, was absent in KO mice. RRV‐treated KO mice demonstrated significantly fewer cytokeratin‐19 (CK19)‐positive ductular reactions (P = 0.0004) and significantly less periportal collagen deposition (P = 0.0001) compared with WT. RRV‐treated KO mice expressed significantly less integrin‐β6, which encodes a key biliary‐specific subunit of a transforming growth factor (TGF) β activator (P = 0.0004). Infants with successful biliary drainage (Tbili ≤1.5 mg/dL within 3 months postoperatively), which is highly predictive of increased transplant‐free survival, expressed significantly less hepatic PROM1, CK19, and COLLAGEN‐1α compared with those with TBili >1.5 (P < 0.05). Conclusion:
Prom1 plays an important role in biliary fibrogenesis, in part through integrin‐mediated TGF pathway activation.
Lymphomas associated with chronic hepatitis C virus infection: A prospective multicenter cohort study from the Rete Ematologica Lombarda (REL) clinical network
Authors: Rattotti Sara , Ferretti Virginia Valeria , Rusconi Chiara , Rossi Andrea , Fogazzi Stefano , Baldini Luca , Pioltelli Pietro , Balzarotti Monica , Farina Lucia , Ferreri Andrés J.M. , Laszlo Daniele , Speziale Valentina , Varettoni Marzia , Sciarra Roberta , Morello Lucia , Tedeschi Alessandra , Frigeni Marco , Defrancesco Irene , Zerbi Caterina , Flospergher Elena , Nizzoli Maria Elena , Morra Enrica , Arcaini Luca ,   on behalf of the “Rete Ematologica Lombarda” (REL ‐ Hematology Clinical Network of Lombardy ‐ Lymphoma Workgroup)
Published: February 2019

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is related with an increased risk of non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL). In indolent subtypes, regression of NHL was reported after HCV eradication with antiviral therapy (AT). In 2008 in Lombardy, a region of Northern Italy, the “Rete Ematologica Lombarda” (REL, Hematology Network of Lombardy—Lymphoma Workgroup) started a prospective multicenter observational cohort study on NHL associated with HCV infection, named “Registro Lombardo dei Linfomi HCV‐positivi” (“Lombardy Registry of HCV‐associated non‐Hodgkin lymphomas”). Two hundred fifty patients with a first diagnosis of NHL associated with HCV infection were enrolled; also in our cohort, diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) are the two most frequent HCV‐associated lymphomas. Two thirds of patients had HCV‐positivity detection before NHL; overall, NHL was diagnosed after a median time of 11 years since HCV survey. Our data on eradication of HCV infection were collected prior the recent introduction of the direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) therapy. Sixteen patients with indolent NHL treated with interferon‐based AT as first line anti‐lymphoma therapy, because of the absence of criteria for an immediate conventional treatment for lymphoma, had an overall response rate of 90%. After a median follow‐up of 7 years, the overall survival (OS) was significantly longer in indolent NHL treated with AT as first line (P = 0.048); this confirms a favorable outcome in this subset. Liver toxicity was an important adverse event after a conventional treatment in 20% of all patients, in particular among DLBCL, in which it is more frequent the coexistence of a more advanced liver disease. Overall, HCV infection should be consider as an important co‐pathology in the treatment of lymphomas and an interdisciplinary approach should be always considered, in particular to evaluate the presence of fibrosis or necroinflammatory liver disease.
Pediatric malignancies in neurofibromatosis type 1: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Peltonen Sirkku , Kallionpää Roope A. , Rantanen Matti , Uusitalo Elina , Lähteenmäki Päivi M. , Pöyhönen Minna , Pitkäniemi Janne , Peltonen Juha
Published: February 2019

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a cancer predisposition syndrome with an incidence of 1:2,000. Patients with NF1 have an increased cancer risk and mortality, but there are no population‐based cohort studies specifically investigating the risk of childhood malignancies. We used the Finnish NF1 cohort to analyze the incidence, risk and prognosis of malignancies in NF1 patients <20 years of age. Persons born in 1987–2011 were included, and 524 persons were followed through the files of the Finnish Cancer Registry from birth up to age 20 years. This amounted to 8,376 person years. Fifty‐three patients had cancer <20 years of age, yielding a standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of 35.6. The most frequent location of pediatric cancers was the central nervous system (CNS); there were 45 cases and the SIR was 115.7. Exclusion of 22 optic pathway gliomas (OPGs) gave an SIR of 59.1 for the CNS and 21.6 for all cancers. There were nine malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs); their cumulative risk was 2.7% by age 20. No cases of leukemia were observed. NF1 patients showed considerable excess mortality with a standardized mortality ratio (SMR) of 73.1. The survival of NF1 patients with CNS tumors other than OPGs did not differ from that of non‐NF1 controls (HR 0.64, 95% CI 0.23 to 1.76). In conclusion, brain tumors in childhood and MPNSTs in adolescence are malignancies of major concern in patients with NF1. The risk for myeloid malignancies may not be as high as suggested in the literature.
Research challenges and opportunities in blockchain and cryptocurrencies
Authors: Mahmoud Qusay H. , Lescisin Michael , AlTaei May
Published: February 2019

The blockchain is the underlying technology of the Bitcoin cryptocurrency, and it has created much excitement in the technology and research communities. A blockchain is a distributed ledger collectively maintained by a peer‐to‐peer network of participants who in Bitcoin are known as miners. This key innovation enables cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin to operate in a decentralized manner with no intermediaries such as financial institutions. But the blockchain can be used to record things other than cryptocurrency transactions. While many of the concepts of Bitcoin build on what have been around since the 1980s and 1990s, the designer(s) of it have made important assumptions that make it work along with the use of an incentive protocol, leading to a major breakthrough from traditional academic thinking. In this paper, we present the state‐of‐the‐art of blockchain and cryptocurrencies along with research challenges and opportunities that would be of interest to researchers getting into this exciting field.
The thickness of poly‐phenoxyethyl methacrylate brush interferes with cellular behavior and function of myofibers
Authors: Huang Tao , Xiao Jiangwei , Wang Shuhao , Liao Zhaohong , Huang Tao , Gu Ruicai , Li Junhua , Wu Gang , Liao Hua
Published: February 2019

Introducing or grafting molecules onto biomaterial surfaces to regulate muscle cell destination via biophysical cues is one of the important steps for biomaterial design in muscle tissue engineering. Therefore, it is important to understand the interaction between myoblasts and myofibers with substrates modified by biomimetic layer with different thicknesses. In this study, we used a surface‐induced atom transfer radical polymerization method to synthetize and graft poly‐phenoxyethyl methacrylate (PHEMA) brushes having different lengths on the glass substrates. C2C12 myoblasts were seeded on the PHEMA brushes and differentiated using horse serum, for analyzing the sensibility of muscle cells to feel environment changing, and further investigating whether the depths of grafting layer on the biomaterial surface are important factors in regulating muscle cell behaviors. Our results demonstrated that on the thicker PHEMA brushes surface (200 and 450 nm), C2C12 myoblasts showed a better survival and proliferation and were favorable for cell fusion and myotube formation. Furthermore, myofibers survived on the thicker brushes were more functional and upregulated cytoskeleton proteins (tubulin, vimentin, and vinculin) and FAK levels, and enhanced the expression levels for mechanical stress molecules (HGF, NOS‐1, and c‐Met). These results suggest that grafting thickness of PHEMA layer on the substrate led to the myoblasts/myofiber behavior change, which would be valuable for the design and preparation of the modified layer on muscle tissue engineering scaffolds. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 1264–1272, 2019.
Aligned topography mediated cell elongation reverses pathological phenotype of in vitro cultured keloid fibroblasts
Authors: Huang Jia , Tu Tian , Wang Wenbo , Gao Zhen , Zhou Guangdong , Zhang Wenjie , Wu Xiaoli , Liu Wei
Published: February 2019

Topography modified cell behavior remains less explored in diseased cells. This study investigated the reversing effect on the pathological phenotype of keloid fibroblasts via culturing cells on a parallel microgrooved surface. The results showed that this particular topography with 3 μm groove depth and 10 μm width could significantly elongate and align the cultured cells with reduced cell (nucleus) area and increased cell (nucleus) body aspect ratio and cell (nucleus) body major axis (p < 0.05). Importantly, the elongated cells gradually lost their fibrotic phenotype with inhibited cell proliferation and cell cycle arrest in S‐phase (p < 0.05), reduced expression of fibrotic markers such as collagen, fibronectin, connective tissue growth factor, α‐smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor‐β1 (p < 0.05), and increased matrix metalloproteinases/tissue inhibitor‐1 ratio (p < 0.05) along with attenuated Smad and Erk phosphorylation level. All these indicate that this parallel topography is powerful enough to modify keloid cell phenotype, a benign skin tumor with excessive cell proliferation and matrix production. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2019.
A novel 3D printed cage with microporous structure and in vivo fusion function
Authors: Li Peng , Jiang Wei , Yan Jia , Hu Kun , Han Zhenchuan , Wang Bo , Zhao Yongfei , Cui Geng , Wang Zheng , Mao Keya , Wang Yan , Cui Fuzhai
Published: February 2019

In this study, a novel 3D printed porous titanium cage (3D printed cage) with interconnected pores inside was designed and manufactured. Observations by scanning electron microscopy showed that the inside of the 3D printed cage had an octahedral porous structure, with the pores uniform in size and connected to each other. The mechanical properties analysis found that the Young's modulus and compressive strength of the porous structure were close to those of the bone structure, and the overall stiffness was slightly higher than that of the polyether ether ketone (PEEK) material, but was significantly lower than that of the titanium alloy solid module. Animal experiments indicated that the new 3D printed cage was equivalent to PEEK cage in fusion time. At 3 months, the new bone grew into the cage through the pores of the new 3D printed cage surface, which had a high bone contact rate. These results demonstrate that the 3D printed porous titanium cage has good biocompatibility and osseointegration, and has a potential clinical value as bone implants. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2019.
Chemical synthesis of MnFe2O4/chitosan nanocomposites for controlled release of ofloxacin drug
Authors: Taavoni‐Gilan Ayoub
Published: February 2019

In this study, we synthesized ofloxacin‐loaded MnFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) surface modified with chitosan (CS‐MnFe2O4) for prolonged antibiotic release in a controlled manner. It was found that the synthesized CS‐MnFe2O4 was spherical in shape with an average size of 30–50 nm, low aggregation, and good magnetic responsibility. An in vitro drug loading and release kinetics study reveals that the drug delivery system can take 86% of drug load and can release ofloxacin over a sustained period of 3 days. The release kinetics study reveals that the drug follows zero order kinetics and the mechanism of drug release is diffusion‐controlled type. These results indicated that CS‐MnFe2O4 NPs with pH‐sensitive properties can be used as candidates for intestinal targeted drug delivery through oral administration by avoiding the drug release in the highly acidic gastric fluid region of the stomach.
The basics of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT): A study from a structure, dynamics, and functional perspective
Authors: Das Vishal , Bhattacharya Sourya , Chikkaputtaiah Channakeshavaiah , Hazra Saugata , Pal Mintu
Published: February 2019

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key step in transdifferentiation process in solid cancer development. Forthcoming evidence suggest that the stratified program transforms polarized, immotile epithelial cells to migratory mesenchymal cells associated with enhancement of breast cancer stemness, metastasis, and drug resistance. It involves primarily several signaling pathways, such as transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β), cadherin, notch, plasminogen activator protein inhibitor, urokinase plasminogen activator, and WNT/beta catenin pathways. However, current understanding on the crosstalk of multisignaling pathways and assemblies of key transcription factors remain to be explored. In this review, we focus on the crosstalk of signal transduction pathways linked to the current therapeutic and drug development strategies. We have also performed the computational modeling on indepth the structure and conformational dynamic studies of regulatory proteins and analyze molecular interactions with their associate factors to understand the complicated process of EMT in breast cancer progression and metastasis. Electrostatic potential surfaces have been analyzed that help in optimization of electrostatic interactions between the protein and its ligand. Therefore, understanding the biological implications underlying the EMT process through molecular biology with biocomputation and structural biology approaches will enable the development of new therapeutic strategies to sensitize tumors to conventional therapy and suppress their metastatic phenotype.
TGF‐β and HSP70 profiles during transformation of yak hair follicles from the anagen to catagen stage
Authors: Song Liang‐Li , Cui Yan , Yu Si‐Jiu , Liu Peng‐Gang , He Jun‐Feng
Published: February 2019

Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) are important for the hair follicle (HF) cycle, but it is unclear whether they participate in HF regression in yak skin. In this study, we investigated the role of TGF‐β, TGF‐βRII, and HSP70 in the transition from anagen to catagen of HFs. The results showed that TGF‐β2 transcription was significantly higher than that of TGF‐β1 and TGF‐β3 in the same periods. Meanwhile, the expressions of TGF‐β2, TGF‐βRII, and caspase‐3 were higher in the catagen phase than that in mid‐anagen, and some TGF‐βRII‐positive HF cells were terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate‐biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL)‐positive. Moreover, the HSP70 protein levels in mid‐anagen were higher than those in late‐anagen and catagen. These results suggested that TGF‐β2 plays a major role in catagen induction in yak HFs, which might be achieved via TGF‐βRII‐mediated apoptosis in HF epithelial cells. In contrast, HSP70 might protect epithelial cells from apoptosis and ultimately inhibit HF regression. In conclusion, TGF‐β2 has positive effects, whereas HSP70 has negative effects, on catagen induction.
Semicontinuous anaerobic digestion of protease pretreated Chlorella biomass for volatile fatty acids production
Authors: Magdalena Jose Antonio , Llamas Mercedes , Tomás‐Pejó Elia , González‐Fernández Cristina
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Anaerobic digestion (AD) could be designed as a source of volatile fatty acids (VFAs). However, acidogenesis optimization for novel substrates such as Chlorella vulgaris biomass needs to be investigated considering parameters such as temperature (T), organic loading rate (OLR), hydraulic retention time (HRT) and the adaptation of the sludge to temperature and substrate.

RESULTS

The best organic matter conversion into VFAs (CODVFA/CODin; COD, chemical oxygen demand) was achieved with HRT = 8 d, adapted anaerobic sludge (AAS) and OLR = 1.5 gCOD L−1 d−1 (CODVFA/CODin = 39.8 ± 1.0% and productivity VFA = 0.5 ± 0.1 g L−1 d−1). Acetic and butyric acids represented 50% of the total VFAs. The microbiota related to acidogenesis and acetogenesis (Firmicutes 55% of the operational taxonomic units in R5) and the low archaeal population resulted in VFA accumulation at 25 °C.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of low HRT and temperatures promoted VFAs production especially when AAS was employed. Microbial communities were strikingly different to the ones often found in AD targeted at biogas production. The relevance of the Firmicutes phylum (≤55% in R3 and R5) and euryarchaeota absence at 25 °C contributed to VFA accumulation. The use of AAS reported an increase in Actinobacteria species. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Assessment of a Ficus benjamina wood chip‐based aerated biofilter used for the removal of metformin and ciprofloxacin during domestic wastewater treatment
Authors: García‐Sánchez Liliana , Gutiérrez‐Macías Tania , Estrada‐Arriaga Edson Baltazar
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Several studies have demonstrated that the pharmaceuticals detected in the influents and effluents of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) can cause endocrine disruption and bacterial resistance on different species, in an aquatic environment. Metformin (antidiabetic drug) and ciprofloxacin (antibiotic quinolones) are compounds found at higher concentrations than many other pharmaceuticals, and thus have a disproportionately large environmental impact. This study is focused on the assessment of an aerated biofilter packed with Ficus benjamina wood chips for the simultaneous removal of metformin, ciprofloxacin, organic matter expressed as chemical oxygen demand (COD) and ammoniacal nitrogen (NH3‐N) during domestic wastewater treatment, under different superficial hydraulic loading.

RESULTS

The maximum removals of metformin, ciprofloxacin, COD and NH3‐N from the wastewater treated in an aerated biofilter were 94, 81, 91 and 38%, respectively, by applying a superficial hydraulic loading of 0.18 m3 m–2 d–1 [hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 7 h]. The adsorption capacity of F. benjamina wood chips on the metformin and ciprofloxacin was 0.1 and 2.03 µg gsupport material–1, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The maximum removal rates for metformin, ciprofloxacin, COD and NH3‐N were obtained when the aerated biofilter was operated at HRT = 7 h. The F. benjamina wood chips showed sorption properties of pharmaceuticals. According to a scanning electron microscopy image, the F. benjamina wood chips showed available pores in their entire surface, thus indicating that this organic support medium has a high potential for carrying out the sorption processes. Likewise, the surface of the wood chips showed the development of a homogeneous biofilm. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Hepatic glutamine synthetase augmentation enhances ammonia detoxification
Authors: Soria Leandro R. , Nitzahn Matthew , De Angelis Angela , Khoja Suhail , Attanasio Sergio , Annunziata Patrizia , Palmer Donna J. , Ng Philip , Lipshutz Gerald S. , Brunetti‐Pierri Nicola
Published: February 2019

The urea cycle and glutamine synthetase (GS) are the two main pathways for waste nitrogen removal and their deficiency results in hyperammonemia. Here, we investigated the efficacy of liver‐specific GS overexpression for therapy of hyperammonemia. To achieve hepatic GS overexpression, we generated a helper‐dependent adenoviral (HDAd) vector expressing the murine GS under the control of a liver‐specific expression cassette (HDAd‐GS). Compared to mice injected with a control vector expressing an unrelated reporter gene (HDAd‐alpha‐fetoprotein), wild‐type mice with increased hepatic GS showed reduced blood ammonia levels and a concomitant increase of blood glutamine after intraperitoneal injections of ammonium chloride, whereas blood urea was unaffected. Moreover, injection of HDAd‐GS reduced blood ammonia levels at baseline and protected against acute hyperammonemia following ammonia challenge in a mouse model with conditional hepatic deficiency of carbamoyl phosphate synthetase 1 (Cps1), the initial and rate‐limiting step of ureagenesis. In summary, we found that upregulation of hepatic GS reduced hyperammonemia in wild‐type and Cps1‐deficient mice, thus confirming a key role of GS in ammonia detoxification. These results suggest that hepatic GS augmentation therapy has potential for treatment of both primary and secondary forms of hyperammonemia.
Microglia in Alzheimer’s disease: A target for immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Shoutang , Colonna Marco
Published: February 2019

Microglia are resident Mϕs of the CNS that play pleiotropic functions in brain development and homeostasis. Impaired microglial functions are thought to be involved in the onset and progression of various neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, understanding microglia in these settings may indicate new approaches for therapeutic intervention. Here, we review recent evidence implicating microglia in Alzheimer’s disease and discuss potential therapeutic strategies targeting microglia and their receptors in this disease.
Characteristics of women with different perinatal depression trajectories
Authors: Wikman Anna , Axfors Cathrine , Iliadis Stavros I , Cox John , Fransson Emma , Skalkidou Alkistis
Published: February 2019

Maternal perinatal depression (PND), a common mental disorder with a prevalence of over 10%, is associated with long‐term health risks for both mothers and offspring. This study aimed at describing characteristics related to background and lifestyle, pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum of different PND trajectories defined according to the onset of depressive symptoms. Participants were drawn from a large population‐based cohort study in Uppsala, Sweden (n = 2,466). Five trajectory groups of depressive symptom onset were created using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale ≥13 (pregnancy) or ≥12 points (postpartum): (a) healthy (60.6%), (b) pregnancy depression (8.5%), (c) early postpartum onset (10.9%), (d) late postpartum onset (5.4%), and (e) chronic depression (14.6%). In multinomial logistic regressions, the associations between trajectories and the included characteristics were tested using the healthy trajectory as reference. Background characteristics (younger age, lower education, unemployment) were primarily associated with pregnancy depression and chronic depression. Characteristics associated with all PND trajectories were smoking prior to pregnancy, migraine, premenstrual mood symptoms, intimate partner violence, interpersonal trauma, negative delivery expectations, pregnancy nausea, and symphysiolysis. Nulliparity, instrumental delivery, or a negative delivery experience was associated with early postpartum onset. Postpartum factors (e.g., infantile colic, lack of sleep, low partner support, and bonding difficulties) were associated with early and late postpartum onset together with chronic depression. The findings suggest that different PND trajectories have divergent characteristics, which could be used to create individualized treatment options. To find the most predictive characteristics for different PND trajectories, studies with even larger and more diverse samples are warranted.
Quantitative evaluation of sulfation position prevalence in chondroitin sulphate by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: López‐Álvarez Miriam , López‐Senra Estefanía , Valcárcel Jesús , Vázquez José Antonio , Serra Julia , González Pío
Published: February 2019

Chondroitin sulphate (CS) as a major component of the extracellular matrix of numerous connective tissues is responsible for biomechanical properties such as resistance and elasticity. It occurs in different isomeric forms with different sites and degrees of sulfation. The characterization of crude CS and quantitative isomeric identification by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) requires specific enzymes, expensive reagents, and a complicated analytical process. Poor reproducibility and imprecise quantification were found with other methodologies. Raman spectroscopy allows rapid and reproducible identification of CS isomers offering specificity and avoids the need for sample pretreatment or external markers. In the present work, a quantitative identification of major contribution of isomeric chondroitin 4 and 6‐sulphate in crude CS by Raman spectroscopy has been performed. Two quantitative indices have been proposed based on areas of specific bands of interest related to main skeletal modes, an aromatic ring with axial orientation in the case of the major contribution of 4‐sulphate and C‐O‐(S) vibration, which is heavily detected in the case of the major contribution of 6‐sulphate. Both mammalian and fish sources of CS were used to validate the ability of mentioned indices to discriminate between prevalence of 4‐sulphate, 6‐sulphate, or none of them. Correspondence of given results with HPLC was demonstrated.
Lupin seeds storage protein composition and their interactions with native flavonoids
Authors: Czubinski Jaroslaw , Feder Sara
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Lupin‐based food, due to the high content of functional proteins and phenolic compounds, are widely used in human nutrition. Unfortunately, proteins and phenolic compounds can easily interact with each other which results in formation of complexes that affect properties of both components. Therefore, in this study, composition of the seeds storage proteins isolated from Lupinus albus and L. angustifolius and their interactions with native flavonoids were investigated.

RESULTS

Based on the chromatographic separations, six proteins fractions of lupin seeds storage proteins were identified. The results indicate that two dominant fractions, α‐conglutin and β‐conglutin, constitute up to 80% of all proteins present in the seeds. Three flavonoids interacting with the proteins were identified as apigenin C‐glycosides. The lowest flavonoids content was noted in the main storage proteins while in both lupin seeds species over 90% of flavonoids interacted with the proteins present in late‐embryogenesis abundant (LEA) protein fraction.

CONCLUSIONS

Protein–phenolic compound complexes can affect the digestibility of proteins and bioavailability of phenolic compounds, and thus the functional and nutritional properties of products derived from lupin seeds can be changed. Therefore, a better understanding of factors affecting the nutritional value of lupin seeds proteins and flavonoids is necessary to optimize the biological use of this plant for human nutrition. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Multi‐scale habitat selection of elk in response to beetle‐killed forest
Authors: Lamont Bryan G. , Monteith Kevin L. , Merkle Jerod A. , Mong Tony W. , Albeke Shannon E. , Hayes Matthew M. , Kauffman Matthew J.
Published: February 2019

Forests of the Rocky Mountains (USA and Canada) have experienced a large‐scale bark‐beetle (Dendoctronus ponderosae) epidemic that has led to widespread mortality of pine trees, followed by structural and compositional changes to the forest. The millions of dead trees resulting from this event likely have an effect on ecosystem processes, but currently those effects are mostly unclear. Changes to forest canopy and understory structure are likely to affect behavior and space use of large ungulates as forage abundance, thermal cover, and locomotive costs are presumably altered. We developed and tested hypotheses for how resource selection in summer of female elk (Cervus canadensis;n = 47; 2012–2016), the primary large mammal in our study area, was influenced by changes in canopy, understory vegetation, and downed logs in bark‐beetle affected forest in south‐central Wyoming, USA. We employed global positioning system (GPS) technology, an imagery‐derived land cover classification specifically depicting beetle‐affected forest, and on‐the‐ground forest measurements to develop resource and step selection functions. At the study area scale, elk avoided beetle‐killed forest during nearly all parts of the day and selected for intact conifer forest during the day. At the micro‐habitat scale, as canopy cover decreased in beetle‐killed areas, there was a concomitant increase in grass biomass and downed logs. Nevertheless, while in the forest, elk did not alter resource selection relative to changes in understory vegetation or downed logs. The boost in forage abundance within beetle‐killed areas was insufficient to overcome the presumed increases in energy expenditures associated with locomotion and thermoregulation in beetle‐killed forests. The bark‐beetle epidemic has altered how elk use the landscape and has resulted in a potential loss of forest habitat that elk use during the day. Our results indicate that habitat treatments (i.e., fire or harvest) that remove standing dead trees and downed logs in beetle‐killed forest would further facilitate understory growth while reducing the locomotion costs associated with foraging in beetle‐killed forest. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Combination of Dietary Ahiflower Oil and Equol Enhances Long‐Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Levels in Rainbow Trout Tissues
Authors: Fickler Anna , Staats Stefanie , Michl Stéphanie Céline , Hasler Mario , Rimbach Gerald , Schulz Carsten
Published: February 2019

Equol and Ahiflower oil have been shown to increase either eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n‐3) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n‐3) levels in tissues of rainbow trout when applied individually. Thus, we investigated whether the combination of an Ahiflower oil‐based diet and equol might increase both, EPA and DHA levels, in rainbow trout. Rainbow trout (87.1 ± 0.3 g) were fed with five diets for 8 weeks. A diet based on a blend of fish and vegetable oils (FV) served as a reference diet. The four experimental diets contained a blend of Ahiflower oil and vegetable oils (AV). The AV‐diets were supplemented with equol by 0.0%, 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3% DM of the diet (AV‐C, AV‐EQ1, AV‐EQ2, and AV‐EQ3). The dietary treatments did not affect growth performance of fish and chemical nutrient composition of the whole body samples. Fish fed with the equol diets showed dose‐dependently increased liver weights and 18:0 liver levels. The content of EPA showed no consistent pattern between tissues but all AV‐groups were characterized by higher liver EPA values than FV. DHA values of AV‐EQ2 and AV‐EQ3 were similar to FV in fillet, tended to be the highest in the whole body and were significantly higher in liver compared to FV. In contrast, mRNA steady state levels of fatty acyl desaturase 2a (delta‐6) [fads2a(d6)] were not affected by the dietary treatments. In conclusion, the combination of dietary Ahiflower oil and equol (0.2% and 0.3%) seems to affect the fatty acid metabolism of rainbow trout positively to increase DHA tissue levels.