bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Palbociclib synergizes with BRAF and MEK inhibitors in treatment naïve melanoma but not after the development of BRAF inhibitor resistance
Authors: Martin Claire A. , Cullinane Carleen , Kirby Laura , Abuhammad Shatha , Lelliott Emily J. , Waldeck Kelly , Young Richard J. , Brajanovski Natalie , Cameron Donald P. , Walker Rachael , Sanij Elaine , Poortinga Gretchen , Hannan Ross D. , Pearson Richard B. , Hicks Rodney J. , McArthur Grant A. , Sheppard Karen E.
Published: December 2017

Increased CDK4 activity occurs in the majority of melanomas and CDK4/6 inhibitors in combination with BRAF and MEK inhibitors are currently in clinical trials for the treatment of melanoma. We hypothesize that the timing of the addition of CDK4/6 inhibitors to the current BRAF and MEK inhibitor regime will impact on the efficacy of this triplet drug combination. The efficacy of BRAF, MEK and CDK4/6 inhibitors as single agents and in combination was assessed in human BRAF mutant cell lines that were treatment naïve, BRAF inhibitor tolerant or had acquired resistance to BRAF inhibitors. Xenograft studies were then performed to test the in vivo efficacy of the BRAF and CDK4/6 inhibitor combination. Melanoma cells that had developed early reversible tolerance or acquired resistance to BRAF inhibition remained sensitive to palbociclib. In drug‐tolerant cells, the efficacy of the combination of palbociclib with BRAF and/or MEK inhibitors was equivalent to single agent palbociclib. Similarly, acquired BRAF inhibitor resistance cells lost efficacy to the palbociclib and BRAF combination. In contrast, upfront treatment of melanoma cells with palbociclib in combination with BRAF and/or MEK inhibitors induced either cell death or senescence and was superior to a BRAF plus MEK inhibitor combination. In vivo palbociclib plus BRAF inhibitor induced rapid and sustained tumor regression without the development of therapy resistance. In summary, upfront dual targeting of CDK4/6 and mutant BRAF signaling enables tumor cells to evade resistance to monotherapy and is required for robust and sustained tumor regression. Melanoma patients whose tumors have acquired resistance to BRAF inhibition are less likely to have favorable responses to subsequent treatment with the triplet combination of BRAF, MEK and CDK4/6 inhibitors.
AQP2 can modulate the pattern of Ca2+ transients induced by store‐operated Ca2+ entry under TRPV4 activation
Authors: Pizzoni Alejandro , López González Macarena , Di Giusto Gisela , Rivarola Valeria , Capurro Claudia , Ford Paula
Published: December 2017

There is increasing evidence indicating that aquaporins (AQPs) exert an influence in cell signaling by the interplay with the TRPV4 Ca2+ channel. Ca2+ release from intracellular stores and plasma membrane hyperpolarization due to opening of Ca2+‐activated potassium channels (KCa) are events that have been proposed to take place downstream of TRPV4 activation. A major mechanism for Ca2+ entry, activated after depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores and driven by electrochemical forces, is the store‐operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE). The consequences of the interplay between TRPV4 and AQPs on SOCE have not been yet investigated. The aim of our study was to test the hypothesis that AQP2 can modulate SOCE by facilitating the interaction of TRPV4 with KCa channels in renal cells. Using fluorescent probe techniques, we studied intracellular Ca2+ concentration and membrane potential in response to activation of TRPV4 in two rat cortical collecting duct cell lines (RCCD1), one not expressing AQPs (WT‐RCCD1) and the other transfected with AQP2 (AQP2‐RCCD1). We found that AQP2 co‐immunoprecipitates with TRPV4 and with the small‐conductance potassium channel (SK3). We also showed that AQP2 is crucial for the activation of SK3 by TRPV4, leading to hyperpolarization of the plasma membrane. This seems to be relevant to modulate the magnitude of SOCE and is accompanied by TRPV4 translocation to the plasma membrane only in AQP2 expressing cells. These findings open the perspective to further investigate whether the interplay between different AQPs with TRPV4 and KCa channels can be an important mechanism to modulate SOCE with physiological relevance.
Diallyl Trisulfide inhibits breast cancer stem cells via suppression of Wnt/β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Li Xiaoting , Meng Yu , Xie Chunfeng , Zhu Jianyun , Wang Xiaoqian , Li Yuan , Geng Shanshan , Wu Jieshu , Zhong Caiyun , Li Min
Published: December 2017

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a central role in the development of breast cancer. The canonical Wnt/β‐catenin signal pathway is critical for maintaining CSCs characteristics. Diallyl trisulfide (DATS), a natural organosulfur compound from the garlic, exhibits effective antitumor properties. However, the role of DATS in regulating breast CSCs activity and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain obscure. In the present study, we reported that DATS efficiently inhibited the viability of breast CSCs as evidenced by reducing turmorspheres formation, decreasing the expression of breast CSCs markers (CD44, ALDH1A1, Nanog, and Oct4), as well as inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis. Furthermore, we showed that DATS downregulated the activity of Wnt/β‐catenin pathway, while LiCl‐triggered Wnt/β‐catenin activation diminished DATS inhibition on breast CSCs. Taken together, our results illustrated that DATS suppressed breast CSCs through inhibiting Wnt/β‐catenin pathway activation. These novel findings could provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of breast CSCs regulation as well as its target intervention and might provide new strategies for preventing and treating breast cancers.
Signaling cascades in thyroid cancer: Increasing the armory of archers to hit bullseye
Authors: Rashid Faiza Abdul , Mansoor Qaisar , Tabassum Sobia , Aziz Hafsa , Arfat Waleed O. , Naoum George E. , Ismail Muhammad , Farooqi Ammad Ahmad
Published: December 2017

Thyroid cancer is a multifaceted and therapeutically challenging disease and rapidly accumulating experimentally verified findings have considerably improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms which underlie its development. Substantial fraction of information has been added into existing landscape of molecular oncology and we have started to develop a sharper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of thyroid cancer. Wealth of information demystified different intracellular signaling cascades which are frequently deregulated in thyroid cancer. In vitro assays and xenografted mice based studies have helped us to identify drug targets and different synthetic and natural products are currently being tested to effectively treat thyroid cancer. Cabozantinib and vandetanib have been approved to treat medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) and two agents (lenvatinib and sorafenib) are also being used to treat radioactive‐iodine refractory differentiated thyroid cancer. This review comprehensively summarizes most recent advancements in our knowledge related to dysregulated intracellular signaling cascades in thyroid cancer and how different proteins can be therapeutically exploited. (1) We discuss how loss of TRAIL mediated apoptosis occurred in thyroid cancer cells and how different strategies can be used to restore apoptosis in resistant cancer cells; (2) We provide detailed account of seemingly opposite roles of NOTCH signaling in thyroid cancers; (3) TGF/SMAD mediated signaling also needs detailed research because of context dependent role in thyroid cancer. Researchers have only begun to scratch the surface of how TGF signaling works in thyroid cancer and metastasis; and (4) Role of SHH signaling in thyroid cancer stem cells is also well appreciated and targeting of SHH pathway will be an important aspect in treatment of thyroid cancer. Better concepts and improved knowledge will be helpful for clinicians in getting a step closer to individualized medicine.
Exosomes secreted by hypoxic cardiosphere‐derived cells enhance tube formation and increase pro‐angiogenic miRNA
Authors: Namazi Helia , Mohit Elham , Namazi Iman , Rajabi Sarah , Samadian Azam , Hajizadeh‐Saffar Ensiyeh , Aghdami Nasser , Baharvand Hossein
Published: December 2017

Exosomes are required for the regenerative effects of human cardiosphere‐derived cells (CDCs). Studies show that they mimic the cardioprotective benefits of CDCs in rodents and porcine myocardial infarction (MI) models. Hypoxic preconditioning of stem cells increases the cardioprotective effects of exosomes in MI models by enhancing angiogenesis. Several exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) up‐regulate in response to hypoxia and play a role in cardioprotective and pro‐angiogenic effects. In this study, we have demonstrated that human CDCs secreted exosomes under hypoxic conditions (1% O2 for 2 days) enhanced tube formation by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) at a concentration of 25 µg/mL. Pro‐angiogenic exosomal miRNAs including miR‐126, miR‐130a, and miR‐210 showed a substantial increase (>2‐, >2‐, and >4‐fold, respectively) in the hypoxic exosomes compared to normoxic CDC‐derived exosomes. Our study suggested a significant benefit of hypoxic CDC exosomes for the treatment of cardiac diseases by induction of angiogenesis via enrichment of pro‐angiogenic exosomal miRNAs.
A Greener Approach Synthesis and Docking Studies of Perimidine Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Eldeab Hany A. , Eweas Ahmad F.
Published: December 2017

Microwave solvent‐free technique was employed to the synthesis of series of 2‐(1H‐perimidin‐2(3H)‐ylidene) derivatives, 4‐(1H‐perimidin‐2‐yl)‐1H‐pyrazole‐3‐carboxamides, pyrrolo[1,2‐a]perimidin‐10‐ones, and 8H‐[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]perimidine. Compared with conventional method, the obvious feature of microwave method is higher in chemical yield, faster reaction rate, and cleaner reaction condition. The structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed based on their elemental analyses and spectroscopic data (FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, 19F‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and LC‐MS/MS). Some of the synthesized compounds exhibit anticancer potential against the growth of both the human breast (MCF‐7) and the liver carcinoma (HepG2) tumor cells. The most active cytotoxic perimidine derivatives were docked against topoisomerase II to investigate their binding and DNA intercalating activity against the protein crystal structure.
Synthesis and evaluation of an 18F‐labeled trifluoroborate derivative of 2‐nitroimidazole for imaging tumor hypoxia with positron emission tomography
Authors: Nunes Paulo Sérgio Gonçalves , Zhang Zhengxing , Kuo Hsiou‐Ting , Zhang Chengcheng , Rousseau Julie , Rousseau Etienne , Lau Joseph , Kwon Daniel , Carvalho Ivone , Bénard François , Lin Kuo‐Shyan
Published: December 2017

2‐Nitroimidazole‐based hypoxia imaging tracers such as 18F‐FMISO are normally imaged at late time points (several hours post‐injection) due to their slow clearance from background tissues. Here, we investigated if a hydrophilic zwitterion‐based ammoniomethyl‐trifluoroborate derivative of 2‐nitroimidazole, 18F‐AmBF3‐Bu‐2NI, could have the potential to image tumor hypoxia at earlier time points. AmBF3‐Bu‐2NI was prepared in 4 steps. 18F labeling was conducted via 18F‐19F isotope exchange reaction, and 18F‐AmBF3‐Bu‐2NI was obtained in 14.8 ± 0.4% (n = 3) decay‐corrected radiochemical yield with 24.5 ± 5.2 GBq/μmol specific activity and >99% radiochemical purity. Imaging and biodistribution studies in HT‐29 tumor‐bearing mice showed that 18F‐AmBF3‐Bu‐2NI cleared quickly from blood and was excreted via the hepatobiliary and renal pathways. However, the tumor was not visualized in PET images until 3 hours post‐injection due to low tumor uptake (0.54 ± 0.13 and 0.19 ± 0.04%ID/g at 1 and 3 hours post‐injection, respectively). The low tumor uptake is likely due to the highly hydrophilic motif of ammoniomethyl‐trifluoroborate that prevents free diffusion of 18F‐AmBF3‐Bu‐2NI across the cell membrane. Our results suggest that highly hydrophilic 18F‐labeled ammoniomethyl‐trifluoroborate derivatives might not be suitable for imaging intracellular targets including nitroreductase, a common tumor hypoxia imaging target.
Simultaneous acquisition of MR angiography and diagnostic images of abdomen at view‐sharing multiarterial phases and comparing the effect of two different contrast agents
Authors: Noda Yoshifumi , Goshima Satoshi , Namimoto Tomohiro , Shinkawa Norihiro , Nakagawa Masataka , Kajita Kimihiro , Kawada Hiroshi , Kawai Nobuyuki , Tanahashi Yukichi , Matsuo Masayuki , Bae Kyongtae T , Hirai Toshinori , Yamashita Yasuyuki
Published: December 2017

Background

Simultaneous acquisition of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and diagnostic images is challenging in contrast‐enhanced upper abdominal MRI.

Purpose

To evaluate the image quality of MRA of the abdomen acquired simultaneously with diagnostic MR images, and to compare the contrast effect, conspicuity of aortic branches, and pancreatic lesions in MRA between gadobutrol and gadoterate meglumine.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Eighty‐eight patients with known and suspected upper abdominal disease.

Field Strength/Sequences

3T/4D‐eTHRIVE (T1‐weighted fat‐suppressed 3D fast gradient echo) for multiarterial phase imaging.

Assessment

The artery‐to‐muscle signal intensity ratio (SIR), conspicuity of aortic branches on the axial, maximum intensity projection (MIP), and volume‐rendered (VR) images, and conspicuity of focal pancreatic lesions were compared between gadobutrol and gadoterate meglumine. The diameters of aortic branches were measured on axial MRA and computed tomography angiography (CTA) images and then compared.

Statistical Tests

Quantitative and qualitative data were assessed with the Mann–Whitney U‐test. The diameters of aortic branches between MRA and CTA were compared with a Spearman rank correlation test.

Results

View‐sharing multiarterial phase imaging was successfully performed in all patients. The SIRs of common hepatic artery (P = 0.0051) and left renal artery (RA) (P = 0.045), vascular conspicuities of right and left hepatic arteries (P = 0.010 and 0.030) and right and left RAs on axial (P = 0.0065 and 0.036), and that of gastroduodenal artery on MIP (P = 0.039) with gadobutrol were significantly higher than those with gadoterate meglumine. The conspicuity of focal pancreatic lesions were comparable between the gadobutrol and gadoterate meglumine (P = 0.73). The vascular diameters on MRA and CTA were strongly correlated in all aortic branches (r = 0.842–0.942, P < 0.0001).

Data Conclusion

High‐quality MRA of the abdomen was obtained simultaneously with the diagnostic MR images using view‐sharing multiarterial phase imaging that also demonstrated comparable image quality between gadobutrol and gadoterate meglumine.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017.
Detection of enteric‐ and non‐enteric adenoviruses in gastroenteritis patients, Bangladesh, 2012‐2015
Authors: Afrad Mokibul Hassan , Avzun Tasnuva , Haque Jahurul , Haque Warda , Hossain Mohammad Enayet , Rahman AFM Rajibur , Ahmed Shahnawaz , Faruque Abu Syed Golam , Rahman Mohammed Ziaur , Rahman Mustafizur
Published: December 2017

Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) are common cause of nonbacterial acute gastroenteritis worldwide. Limited data exist on HAdVs molecular epidemiology associated with acute gastroenteritis in Bangladesh. We describe the genetic diversity and epidemiology of HAdVs among hospitalized diarrhea patients, including HAdV genotypes, clinical symptoms, and co‐infecting enteric pathogens. Stool samples were collected from ongoing diarrhea surveillance during 2012‐2015. HAdV was detected using PCR and genotyped by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Detailed socio‐demographic and clinical information regarding each individual was recorded such as duration of diarrhea, dehydration status, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, and severity. Of 871 fecal specimens, HAdV DNA was detected in 93 (10.7%). Among them 56% were co‐infected with other known enteric viral and bacterial pathogens and 31.6% had severe gastroenteritis. The majority (55%) of HAdV positives were children <5 years of age. Two main clinical symptoms in HAdV infected patients were diarrhea and vomiting. HAdVs were detected throughout the year with low prevalence in winter (November‐January). Five HAdV species (A, B, C, D, and F) including 17 different genotypes were identified during the study period, with enteric HAdV species F (HAdV‐40/41) being the most dominant. However, non‐enteric HAdV were also detected in substantial proportion of specimens (15% species C, 15% species D, 10.8% species A, and 4.3% species B). Our study demonstrates high genetic diversity of HAdVs including enteric and non‐enteric HAdVs among diarrhea patients and provides a foundation for further clarification of the role of non‐enteric HAdVs in diarrheal diseases.
Igniting and resolving content disagreements during team interactions: A statistical discourse analysis of team dynamics at work
Authors: Lehmann‐Willenbrock Nale , Chiu Ming Ming
Published: December 2017

Disagreements are integral to fruitful team collaboration but have rarely been studied within actual team interactions. We develop a temporal account of how disagreement episodes begin and are resolved during team interactions, testing explanatory factors at multiple levels: team context (team conflict states and team productivity), individual characteristics and perceptions (individual status and perceptions of team viability), and behavioral patterns (problem solving versus off‐task communication) with a statistical discourse analysis of 32,448 turns of talk by 259 employees during 43 team meetings. As hypothesized, problem‐solving behaviors (e.g., describing problems and proposing solutions) ignited content disagreements, often by participants who perceived greater team viability. In contrast, after off‐task behaviors or talk by higher status team members, participants started fewer content disagreements. Moreover, content disagreements started by higher status individuals were more likely than those started by others to be resolved with agreements, especially via agreements with higher status individuals. Also, problem‐solving behaviors facilitated the resolution of disagreement episodes with agreement, whereas off‐task behaviors hindered them. Contrary to our hypotheses, team conflict states and productivity were not linked to starting or ending disagreements. We discuss the conceptual and methodological importance of capturing team interaction dynamics at work and derive practical implications for managing content disagreement.
Non‐invasive placentation in the marsupials Macropus eugenii (Macropodidae) and Trichosurus vulpecula (Phalangeridae) involves redistribution of uterine Desmoglein‐2
Authors: Laird Melanie K. , McShea Hanon , Murphy Christopher R. , McAllan Bronwyn M. , Shaw Geoff , Renfree Marilyn B. , Thompson Michael B.
Published: December 2017

In mammalian pregnancy, the uterus is remodeled to become receptive to embryonic implantation. Since non‐invasive placentation in marsupials is likely derived from invasive placentation, and is underpinned by intra‐uterine conflict between mother and embryo, species with non‐invasive placentation may employ a variety of molecular mechanisms to maintain an intact uterine epithelium and to prevent embryonic invasion. Identifying such modifications to the uterine epithelium of marsupial species with non‐invasive placentation is key to understanding how conflict is mediated during pregnancy in different mammalian groups. Desmoglein‐2, involved in maintaining lateral cell–cell adhesion of the uterine epithelium, is redistributed before implantation to facilitate embryo invasion in mammals with invasive placentation. We identified localization patterns of this cell adhesion molecule throughout pregnancy in two marsupial species with non‐invasive placentation, the tammar wallaby (Macropus eugenii; Macropodidae), and the brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula; Phalangeridae). Interestingly, Desmoglein‐2 redistribution also occurs in both M. eugenii and T. vulpecula, suggesting that cell adhesion, and thus integrity of the uterine epithelium, is reduced during implantation regardless of placental type, and may be an important component of uterine remodeling. Desmoglein‐2 also localizes to the mesenchymal stromal cells of M. eugenii and to epithelial cell nuclei in T. vulpecula, suggesting its involvement in cellular processes that are independent of adhesion and may compensate for reduced lateral adhesion in the uterine epithelium. We conclude that non‐invasive placentation in marsupials involves diverse and complementary strategies to maintain an intact epithelial barrier.
Oocyte maturation in the toad Rhinella arenarum (Amphibia, Anura): Evidence of cAMP involvement in steroid production and action
Authors: Arias Torres Ana J. , Páez José B. , Zelarayán Liliana I.
Published: December 2017

In this work, we describe the participation of the adenylate cyclase/3′‐5′‐cyclic adenonsine monophosphate (cAMP) pathway in the seasonal follicular secretion of progesterone (P4) and testosterone (T), and its relationship with the maturation of Rhinella arenarum oocytes. Under gonadotropin stimulation, P4 secretion was the dominant steroid produced during the reproductive period, resulting in 100% germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) in oocytes in vitro; in contrast, T and estradiol (E2) secretion increased (∼16 nM/20 follicles and ∼80 pM/20 follicles, respectively) during the non‐reproductive period, but only yielded 50% GVBD. Treatment of the follicles with dibutyryl‐cAMP or forskolin induced a significant increase in T secretion during both periods, but P4 secretion did not significantly change and GVBD did not occur. These results suggest that high cAMP levels in the oocyte maintain meiotic arrest and prevent the induction effect of follicular steroids. An increase in cAMP levels in denuded oocytes, however, negatively regulated T‐induced maturation since treatment with increasing db‐cAMP or forskolin inhibited their maturation. Therefore, we hypothesize that an elevation in T during the non‐reproductive period favors its aromatization to E2, leading to follicle growth. During the reproductive period, P4 production might promote oocyte maturation when environmental conditions are favorable for reproduction. Together, the results indicate that steroidogenesis is seasonal and depends on gonadotropic activity in R. arenarum.
Dispersion and isogeometric analyses of second‐order and fourth‐order implicit gradient‐enhanced plasticity models
Authors: Kolo Isa , de Borst René
Published: December 2017

Implicit gradient plasticity models incorporate higher‐order spatial gradients via an additional Helmholtz type equation for the plastic multiplier. So far, the enrichment has been limited to second‐order spatial gradients, resulting in a formulation that can be discretised using
‐continuous finite elements. Herein, an implicit gradient plasticity model is formulated that includes a fourth‐order gradient term as well. A comparison between the localisation properties of both the implicit gradient plasticity formulations and the explicit second‐order gradient plasticity model is made using a dispersion analysis. The higher‐order continuity requirement for the fourth‐order implicit gradient plasticity model has been met by exploiting the higher‐order continuity property of isogeometric analysis, which uses nonuniform rational B‐splines as shape functions instead of Lagrange polynomials. The discretised variables, displacements, and plastic multiplier may require different orders of interpolation, an issue that is also addressed. Numerical results show that both formulations can be used as a localisation limiter, but that quantitative differences occur, and a different evolution of the localisation band is obtained for 2‐dimensional problems.
Predictors of adherence to exercise interventions during and after cancer treatment: A systematic review
Authors: Ormel H.L. , van der Schoot G.G.F. , Sluiter W.J. , Jalving M. , Gietema J.A. , Walenkamp A.M.E.
Published: December 2017

Objective

Exercise interventions benefit cancer patients. However, only low numbers of patients adhere to these interventions. This review aimed to identify predictors of exercise intervention adherence in patients with cancer, during and after multimodality cancer treatment.

Methods

A literature search was performed using electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane) to identify relevant papers published before February 1, 2017. Papers reporting randomized controlled trials, conducted in adult cancer patients who participated in an exercise intervention during and/or after multimodality cancer treatment, and providing outcome of factors predicting exercise adherence were included. Papers were assessed for methodological quality by using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale.

Results

The search identified 720 potentially relevant papers, of which 15 fulfilled the eligibility criteria. In these 15 studies, 2279 patients were included and 1383 of these patients were randomized to an exercise intervention. During cancer treatment, the factors predicting exercise adherence were as follows: location of the rehabilitation center, extensive exercise history, high motivation for exercise, and fewer exercise limitations. After cancer treatment, factors that predicted adherence were as follows: less extensive surgery, low alcohol consumption, high previous exercise adherence, family support, feedback by trainers, and knowledge and skills of exercise. Methodological quality of the included papers was rated “high”.

Conclusions

The most prominent predictors of adherence to exercise interventions were location of the rehabilitation center, extensive exercise history, high motivation for exercise, and fewer exercise limitations. To increase the number of cancer patients who will benefit, these results should be considered into the development and implementation of future exercise interventions.
Antiinflammatory properties of betulinic acid and xylopic acid in the carrageenan‐induced pleurisy model of lung inflammation in mice
Authors: Ekuadzi Edmund , Biney Robert P. , Benneh Charles K. , Osei Amankwaa Bismark , Jato Jonathan
Published: December 2017

This study investigated the antiinflammatory properties of betulinic acid (BA) and xylopic acid (XA) extracted from Margaritaria discoidea and Xylopia aethiopica, respectively. M. discoidea and X. aethiopica are plants native in Ghana and the West‐African region and used traditionally to treat different pathologies including inflammatory conditions. The antiinflammatory effect of BA and XA was established by an in vivo assay using the carrageenan‐induced pleural inflammation model in mice. Also, the ability of BA and XA to increase catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione levels and decrease lipid peroxidation level in reactive oxidative assays was assessed. In addition, the ability of XA and BA to prevent potential lung tissue damage was quantified. Pretreatment with BA and XA reduced significantly, signs of inflammation: neutrophil infiltration, oedema, and alveoli septal thickening in carrageenan‐treated lung tissue. Additionally, BA or XA pretreatment lowered the degree of lipid peroxidation in the lung tissue while increasing the levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione in vivo. Comparatively, XA was more efficacious than BA in the prevention of lung tissue damage. BA and XA derived from X. aethiopica and M. discoidea possess antiinflammatory and in vivo antioxidant activities in mice pleurisy model. The effect of these compounds gives credence to the traditional use in the management of inflammatory conditions of the airway.
Western herbal medicine consultations for common menstrual problems; practitioner experiences and perceptions of treatment
Authors: Fisher Carole , Adams Jon , Frawley Jane , Hickman Louise , Sibbritt David
Published: December 2017

To explore the prevalence with which Australian Western herbalists treat menstrual problems and their related treatment, experiences, perceptions, and interreferral practices with other health practitioners. Members of the Practitioner Research and Collaboration Initiative practice‐based research network identifying as Western Herbalists (WHs) completed a specifically developed, online questionnaire. Western Herbalists regularly treat menstrual problems, perceiving high, though differential, levels of effectiveness. For menstrual problems, WHs predominantly prescribe individualised formulas including core herbs, such as Vitex agnus‐castus, and problem‐specific herbs. Estimated clients' weekly cost (median = $25.00) and treatment duration (median = 4–6 months) covering this Western herbal medicine treatment appears relatively low. Urban‐based women are more likely than those rurally based to have used conventional treatment for their menstrual problems before consulting WHs (p = .001). Only 19% of WHs indicated direct contact by conventional medical practitioners regarding treatment of clients' menstrual problems despite 42% indicating clients' conventional practitioners recommended consultation with WH. Western herbal medicine may be a substantially prevalent, cost‐effective treatment option amongst women with menstrual problems. A detailed examination of the behaviour of women with menstrual problems who seek and use Western herbal medicine warrants attention to ensure this healthcare option is safe, effective, and appropriately co‐ordinated within women's wider healthcare use.
Coriolus versicolor aqueous extract ameliorates insulin resistance with PI3K/Akt and p38 MAPK signaling pathways involved in diabetic skeletal muscle
Authors: Xian Hui‐min , Che Hui , Qin Ying , Yang Fan , Meng Song‐yan , Li Xiao‐guang , Bai Yun‐long , Wang Li‐hong
Published: December 2017

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are usually with poor immunity and easier to suffer from cancer and microbial infections. Herein, we report an efficient anti‐diabetic medicinal mushroom, Coriolus versicolor (CV). This study aimed to investigate the anti‐diabetic and anti‐insulin‐resistance effects of CV aqueous extract in myoblasts (L6 cells) and skeletal muscle of T2DM rat. Our results showed that CV extract treatment significantly reduced blood glucose levels of T2DM rats, whereas CV extract increased glucose consumption in insulin resistant L6 cells. Besides, the translocation and expression of glucose transporter 4 were enhanced by CV extract, which indicated that CV extract was effective in diabetic skeletal muscle. Moreover, CV extract treatments resulted in remarkable anti‐insulin‐resistance effects, which was reflected by the change of gene and protein expression levels in PI3K/Akt and p38 MAPK pathways. PI3K inhibitor, LY29004, and p38 MAPK inhibitor, SB203580 confirmed it further. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that the CV extract exhibited anti‐diabetic and anti‐insulin‐resistance effects in diabetic skeletal muscle, and the effects were mediated by PI3K/Akt and p38 MAPK pathways. These findings are remarkable when considering the use of commercially available CV by diabetic patients who also suffer from cancer or microbial infections.
Incorporation of Selected Antimicrobial Small Molecule Compounds into Tapioca Starch and the Effects on Thickness, Moisture, and Oxygen Mass Transfer, and Mechanical Properties of the Films
Authors: Wan Zilu , Rajashekara Gireesh , Fuchs James , Carcache de Blanco Esperanza , Pascall Melvin A.
Published: December 2017

The incorporation of antimicrobial small molecule compounds (JA‐144, TH‐4, and TH‐8) into tapioca starch is investigated as well as their influence on thickness, moisture uptake, gas permeation, morphology, thermal and the mechanical properties of the tapioca films. Unlike TH‐4 and TH‐8, JA‐144 increases in thickness, moisture uptake and gas permeation of the films, when compared with the control film (without antimicrobials). The melt temperature of the control is reduced from 122.63 to 119.84 °C by JA‐144, while TH‐4 and TH‐8 increases them to 126.49 °C and 130.68 °C, respectively. For JA‐144, the X‐ray diffraction show no significant crystallinity change, unlike TH‐4 and TH‐8 that show distinct crystallinity peaks. Dynamic Mechanical Analysis show that JA‐144 has little effect on the glass transition temperature and storage modulus, while TH‐4 and TH‐8 increase storage modulus and the glass transition temperature. Thus, JA‐144 increases flexibility and moisture uptake, but lowers the gas barrier. However, TH‐4 and TH‐8 augment the stiffness and gas barrier properties.
Cover Image, Volume 10, Issue 1
Authors: Rinaldi Gianmarco , Rossi Matteo , Fendt Sarah‐Maria
Published: December 2017

The cover image, by Gianmarco Rinaldi et al., is based on Advanced Review Metabolic interactions in cancer: cellular metabolism at the interface between the microenvironment, the cancer cell phenotype and the epigenetic landscape, DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1397.

image
Husbandry protocols for the Band‐tailed pigeon, Patagioenas fasciata albilinea, at the WCS, Bronx Zoo for future conservation management programs
Authors: Oehler David A. , Novak Ben J. , Schmid Susan C. , Huth Ken J. , Totha Aniko I. , Audhya Tapan
Published: December 2017

From 2015 to 2016 we determined the husbandry protocols involved in the captive rearing of the Band‐tailed Pigeon (BTPI), Patagioenas fascinate albilinea, for use as a tool in the future management of like extant and extinct avian taxa. Current and historical ex‐situ conservation management of BTPIs and the closely related Passenger Pigeon, Ectopistes migratorius, is limited in scope and required further examination. Focus on the BTPI within zoos and private aviculture facilities is currently lacking. New pressures on the wild populations and future examination of the parameters involved in the possible restoration of the Passenger Pigeon may rely on a complete understanding of these conservation management techniques. Here we report on the establishment of a colony of BTPIs, at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and detail the progress attained. A confiscated group of BTPIs was presented to WCS and allowed us to set up the colony, document the husbandry involved, and monitor neonatal development and the factors that influence that development. The information has provided a better understanding of the BTPI and has implications for the future conservation management of this and like species.
Voltage and reactive power optimisation of offshore wind farms based on terminal voltage control mode of DFIG
Authors: Tian Cuihua , Luo Xuanyao , Dong Jianpeng , Chen Baichao , Yuan Jiaxin
Published: December 2017

In order to solve the problem that the voltage of the collector system rises and the loss increases in the offshore wind farm, the reactive power adjustment capability of the doubly‐fed induction generator (DFIG) is studied. This study presents a method to optimise the system voltage and network loss with the terminal voltage of DFIG as the control target. The immune genetic algorithm is used to solve the voltage and reactive power optimisation problem of offshore wind farm in ensuring the voltage is within the allowable range when the active power out of DFIG changes. So that the reactive power adjustment capability of DFIG is fully used, both the system network loss and the reactive power compensation capacity are reduced, which verifies the correctness of the method.
Control of Resistant Colorado Potato Beetle in Early Market Potato, Big Lake, Mn, 1993
Authors: Noetzle David , Miller Jennifer
Published: December 2017

Continued failure of most insecticides for control of CPB in the Anoka Sand Plains growing area stimulated further comparisons of biologicals, inorganics, and synthetic materials for CPB management. Soils are sands at this location. Plots were established in an irrigated commercial potato field. The individual plot consisted of 4—25 ft rows with a row width of 3 ft. Treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design and were replicated 4 times. The grower treated all of the field, including the plots, with Thiodan and Asana XL at 1.0 lb and 0.5 lb Al/acre respectively on 8 Jul and 16 Jul. Plot treatments were applied on 25 Jun, 6 and 19 Jul using a CO2 hand sprayer with about 20 gals total material/acre and 40 psi pressure. Larval ratings and defoliation estimates were taken on 6 and 19 Jul. Vines were killed on 3 Aug and yields collected on 18 Aug. The center 2 rows of each plot were harvested for yield.
Potato Insect Control, 1991
Authors: Slocombe A. C. , Ferro D. N.
Published: December 2017

Potatoes were planted on 7 May in South Deerfield, Massachusetts. Fertilizer (900 lbs 10N:10P:10K/ acre) was banded into the furrow at planting. Soil type was a fine sandy loam with a pH of 5.6. Manzate (fungicide) was applied at 1 lb. Al/acre on 14, 21, and 28 Jun and 11 and 18 Jul. CPB densities prior to first application were 2.9 adults, 8.2 egg masses, 16.3 early instars and 0.8 late instars per plant on 10 Jun. Treatments were replicated 4 times in a randomized complete block design. Each plot consisted of two 30 ft. rows with a 6 ft. fallow area between plots. Treatments were applied with CO2-pressurized sprayers at 40 psi, delivering 70 gal/acre. Applications were made on 10, 17, and 24 Jun and 1 and 10 Jul. The first application of ECX9124EH was on 10 Jun followed by weekly applications of M-Trak. CPB population densities were determined by counting larvae on 10 whole stalks in each plot. To evaluate microbial insecticides M-Trak, M-One, Trident II, and Foil OF, larvae were counted and recorded as early instars (first and second) or late instars (third and fourth). The performance of these materials was evaluated primarily by comparing late instars, as it took 4-5 days for the dead larvae to drop from the plants and early instars could have hatched between the last spray and the following count. The control plots were 70% defoliated when they were plowed under on 3 Jul.
Use of Furadan 4F for Striped Cucumber Beetle Control in Yellow Squash, Spring, 1993
Authors: Speese John
Published: December 2017

Squash was planted on 10 Jun at the Eastern Shore Agricultural Experiment Station, Painter, VA. Each plot consisted of a 25 ft row bordered on each side by an untreated guard row, with 5 ft row spacing. Plots were replicated 4 times in a randomized complete block design. Furadan 4F treatments were applied with a single nozzle boom backpack sprayer in furrow immediately prior to planting. Foliar sprays were applied on the dates indicated in the table in 45 gal water/acre at 40 psi. A single nozzle boom was used for the first spray, and a three nozzle boom for subsequent sprays after the plants had begun to fill in between the rows. Evaluation criteria consisted of insect counts on 6 ft of row and ratings of percent defoliation. The fruit was harvested from 5 marked plants in each plot on 19, 22, 27, and 30 Jul. SCB was the dominant insect species present, with low numbers of spotted cucumber beetle and squash bug also present.
Armyworm and Tomato Pinworm Control on Fresh Market Tomatoes in West-Central Florida, Fall 1992
Authors: Schuster David J.
Published: December 2017

Transplants were set 2 Sep, 15 inches apart on 8-inch-high beds of EauGallie fine sand covered with white polyethylene mulch. Each plot consisted of a single 15 ft row with rows on 5 ft centers. Treatments were replicated 4 times in a randomized complete block design and were applied with a 2.5 gal, hand-held CO2-powered sprayer on 1,9, 16, 22, 29 Oct, 5 and 26 Nov. Applications were not made the weeks of 9 and 16 Nov because of inclement weather. The sprayer was operated at 60 psi and delivered 60 gpa for the first three applications and 120 gpa for the remaining applications using a single nozzle fitted with a D-5 disk and #45 core. On 20 Nov, the numbers of large (0.5 inch) and small (<0.5 inch) southern armyworm larvae per plot were determined by a whole plant search. Fruit were harvested on 25 Nov and 9 Dec. The number and weight of undamaged fruit and the number and weight of fruit damaged by armyworm and tomato pinworm larvae were determined.
Foliar Sprays for Insect Control in Tomatoes, 1993
Authors: Speese John
Published: December 2017

Tomatoes were transplanted on 23 Jul at the Eastern Shore Agricultural Experiment Station, Painter, VA. Each plot consisted of a 25 ft. row, bordered on each side by an untreated guard row, and replicated 4 times in a randomized, complete block design. Spacing was 5 ft. between rows. Sprays were applied weekly beginning 20 Aug through 23 Sep using a 3 nozzle hollow cone boom backpack sprayer delivering 45 gal water/acre at 40 psi. Evaluation criteria consisted of counts of new or living leaf mines present on five marked plants/plot on the dates indicated in the table, and number of marketable fruit from the same five plants harvested on 8 and 22 Sep.
Evaluation of Selected Insecticides for Control of Onion Thrips on Onions, 1993
Authors: Sparks Alton N. , Riley David G.
Published: December 2017

A small plot test was conducted at the Texas A&M Research and Extension Center in Weslaco, Texas, to evaluate selected insecticides for control of onion thrips on onions. Experimental plots measured one row (40 in.) by 25 ft, with two border rows between plots. Treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Insecticides were applied with a CO2 pressurized backpack sprayer at 40 psi in a total volume of 25 gal per acre. Nozzles were arranged with two 10X nozzles per row (over-top). Applications were made on 9, 12 and 20 Feb. Thrips populations were monitored by counting all thrips present on each of five randomly selected plants per plot.
Potato Leafhopper Control, 1993
Authors: McLeod M. J. , Twidwell E. K. , Gallenberg D. J. , Voss T. S.
Published: December 2017

Evaluation of several insecticide against potato leafhopper infesting alfalfa were made at 2 locations in SD, Beresford and Brookings. Plots were 30 ft × 30 ft. All treatments and the untreated check were replicated 4 times in a RCBD. Insecticides were applied in a final spray volume of 20 gal per acre at 35 psi using a hand-held sprayboom consisting of 4, 8002S nozzles on 19 inch centers. Applications were made on 22 Jul at Beresford and 31 Aug at Brookings. Early harvest was made on the day of insecticide application at both locations. Potato leafhopper populations were monitored by taking 10 sweeps per plot with a standard 15 inch diam net prior to application and at 4, 7, 10, and 14 DAT at Beresford. At Brookings, samples were obtained 1 d before and 1, 4, 7, 10 and 14 DAT. Yield was obtained from a 45 ft2 area in the center of each plot 14 DAT for each experiment.
Late Season Insect Control in Canola, 1993A
Authors: McCaffrey J. P. , Harmon B. L.
Published: December 2017

A large block was seeded on 7 inch centers at 7 lb/acre using a plot drill on 11 May at the University of Idaho Plant Science Farm in Moscow, ID. Individual 12 × 23 ft plots were later tilled-out of the block. Insecticide treatments were arranged in a RCBD with 4 replications each. Treatments were applied on 27 Jul when about 10% of the plants were still in bloom. Temperatures at the time of spray application were 82°F. Insecticides were applied using a CO2-pressurized backpack sprayer equipped with 80° fan nozzles on a 6-ft boom that delivered 20 gal/acre at 20 psi. Pretreatment and posttreatment counts of DBM were made by dislodging larvae into a 5 gal plastic bucket with a beat of the hand at each end of the plot. The proportion of aphid-infested canola terminals was assessed by randomly selecting 50 terminals in each plot and recording the presence or absence of aphids. Plot yields were obtained by making one pass along the center of each plot with a smallplot combine (4.6 ft header). Seed was cleaned and weighed. All data were subjected to analysis of variance and protected LSD tests.
Corn Insect Pest Management with Selected At-Planting Insecticide and Starter Fertilizer Treatments, 1993
Authors: Torrey K. D. , Riley T. J. , Leonard B. R. , Clay P. A.
Published: December 2017

The insecticidal efficacy, effect on plant growth and corn seed yields of selected treatments applied as in-furrow sprays at planting (IFSAP) and in-furrow granules at planting (IFGAP) were compared to that of an untreated check in 2 tests. The area for Test 1 had been planted to a hairy vetch, Vicia villosa, winter cover crop. Native winter vegetation was allowed to cover the area in Test 2. Both tests received an application of Gramoxone X-tra (1.75 liters/ha) 2 wk pre-plant to terminate all vegetation. All plots also received Atrazine (3.5 liters/ha) + Roundup D-pak (3.5 liters/ ha) at planting. Plots consisted of 4 rows on 101.6 cm centers × 13.5 m. Treatments were arranged in RCBD with 4 replications. Corn was planted notill in a Gigger silt loam (pH = 6.4, 1.6% organic matter) on 13 Apr with a John Deere 7300 planter modified to apply treatments through a granular applicator hopper box or as a directed spray into the seed furrow. IFSAP treatments for Furadan 4F mixed with the starter fertilizer (11-37-0) were applied with a CO2 charged system calibrated to deliver 46.7 liters total spray/ha through Teejet 8004 flat fan nozzles (1/row) at 2.67 kg/cm2. IFSAP treatments for Furadan 4F without fertilizer were applied with a CO2 charged system calibrated to deliver 46.7 liters total spray/ha through Teejet 8004 flat fan nozzles (1/row) at 2.18 kg/cm2. Numbers of chinch bugs were recorded on 5, 10, and 19 May by sampling 10 plants in each plot. Cutworm spp. damage to plants was determined by recording all damaged plants on the center 2 rows of each plot weekly for 3 wk after plant emergence to obtain a cumulative summary. Plant stand density was measured on 27 May by sampling the entire 2 center rows of each plot. To determine corn plant maturity, tassels (no./m) were recorded on 18 Jun in each plot. Yields were measured by harvesting the 2 center rows of each plot on 27 Aug. The entire test was furrow-irrigated throughout the season and rainfall was not considered a factor influencing final yields.
Insecticide Applied Aerially for Control of First Generation European Corn Borer, 1993
Authors: Witkowski John F.
Published: December 2017

The cornfield was located in Cedar county, northwest of the town of Hartington, NE. Six black headed egg masses were infested onto 30 marked plants (one 10-plant subsample) per treatment for each of 3 replicates on 1 Jul. A Cessna 188 Ag Truck was used to make the applications on 10 Jul. Aerial treatments were flown on in a strip plot design. On 26 Aug, all artificially infested plants were dissected from tassel to ground and examined for borer cavities.
Thrips Control/Variety Test in Cotton with Temik, 1993
Authors: Johnson Donald R. , Jordan A. M.
Published: December 2017

Cotton was planted on 15 May at the James R. Ray farm near Lonoke, AR. Plots were treated with Terrachlor + Temik or Terrachlor + No Temik using Gandy boxes. Plots were 4, 38-inch rows, 50 ft long arranged in a RCBD with 4 replications. Ratings were made on 1,8, and 14 Jun. Visual ratings were made on a scale of 1-10 with 10 = severe damage. Thrips were counted by removing 5 plants/plot and washing the plants through a series of sieves, counting the thrips trapped by the last sieve. Plant height and node measurements were also made. Plots were harvested on 7 Oct for first and only pick by harvesting the center 2 rows in each plot.