bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diabetic dyslipidaemia is associated with alterations in eNOS, caveolin‐1, and endothelial dysfunction in streptozotocin treated rats
Authors: Shamsaldeen Yousif A. , Ugur Rosemary , Benham Christopher D. , Lione Lisa A.
Published: February 2018

Background

Diabetes is a complex progressive disease characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia associated with endothelial dysfunction. Oxidized LDL (Ox‐LDL) is elevated in diabetes and may contribute to endothelial dysfunction. The aim of this study was to relate the serum levels of Ox‐LDL with endothelial dysfunction in streptozotocin (STZ)‐diabetic rats and to further explore the changes in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and caveolin‐1 (CAV‐1) expression in primary aortic endothelial cells.

Methods

Diabetes was induced with a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ in male Wistar rats. During the hyperglycaemic diabetes state serum lipid markers, aortic relaxation and aortic endothelial cell eNOS and CAV‐1 protein expressions were measured.

Results

Elevated serum Ox‐LDL (STZ 1486 ± 78.1 pg/mL vs control 732.6 ± 160.6 pg/mL, P < .05) was associated with hyperglycaemia (STZ 29 ± 0.9 mmol/L vs control: 7.2 ± 0.2 mmol/L, P < .001) and hypertriglyceridaemia (STZ 9.0 ± 1.5 mmol/L vs control: 3.0 ± 0.3 mmol/L, P < .01) in diabetic rats. A significant reduction was observed in STZ‐diabetic aortic endothelial cell eNOS and CAV‐1 of 40% and 30%, respectively, accompanied by a compromised STZ‐diabetic carbachol‐induced vasodilation (STZ 29.6 ± 9.3% vs control 77.2 ± 2.5%, P < .001).

Conclusions

The elevated serum Ox‐LDL in hyperglycaemic STZ‐diabetic rats may contribute to diabetic endothelial dysfunction, possibly through downregulation of endothelial CAV‐1 and eNOS.
Are children with chronic illnesses requiring dietary therapy at risk for disordered eating or eating disorders? A systematic review
Authors: Conviser Jenny H. , Fisher Sheehan D. , McColley Susanna A.
Published: February 2018

Objective

Pediatric chronic illnesses (CI) can affect a child's mental health. Chronic illnesses with treatment regimens that specify a therapeutic diet may place the child at increased risk for disordered eating and specific eating disorders (ED). The aim of this review is to examine the relation between diet‐treated CI and disordered eating and to determine the order of onset to infer directionality. Diet‐treated CI is hypothesized to precede and to be associated with disordered eating.

Method

A comprehensive search of empirical articles that examine the relation between diet‐treated CI (diabetes, cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and inflammatory bowel diseases) and disordered eating was conducted in Medline and PsycINFO using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. A table of the sample's characteristics, ED measures, major pertinent findings, and the onset of CI in relation to ED were provided.

Results

Diet‐treated CI was associated with disordered eating and ED. Diet‐treated CI had onset prior to disordered eating in most studies, except for inflammatory bowel diseases. Disordered eating and unhealthy weight management practices put children at risk for poor medical outcomes.

Discussion

Interventions for diet‐treated CI require a focus on diet and weight, but may increase the risk for disordered eating. Future research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms that transform standard treatment practices into pathological eating, including characteristics and behaviors of the child, parents/care providers, family, and treatment providers.
Body composition and physical fitness in women with bulimia nervosa or binge‐eating disorder
Authors: Mathisen Therese Fostervold , Rosenvinge Jan H. , Friborg Oddgeir , Pettersen Gunn , Stensrud Trine , Hansen Bjørge Herman , Underhaug Karoline E. , Teinung Elisabeth , Vrabel KariAnne , Svendsen Mette , Bratland‐Sanda Solfrid , Sundgot‐Borgen Jorunn
Published: February 2018

Objective

Knowledge about physical fitness in women with bulimia nervosa (BN) or binge‐eating disorder (BED) is sparse. Previous studies have measured physical activity largely through self‐report, and physical fitness variables are mainly restricted to body mass index (BMI) and bone mineral density. We expanded the current knowledge in these groups by including a wider range of physical fitness indicators and objective measures of physical activity, assessed the influence of a history of anorexia nervosa (AN), and evaluated predictive variables for physical fitness.

Method

Physical activity, blood pressure, cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), muscle strength, body composition, and bone mineral density were measured in 156 women with BN or BED, with mean (SD) age 28.4 years (5.7) and BMI 25.3 (4.8) kg m−2.

Results

Level of physical activity was higher than normative levels, still <50% met the official physical activity recommendation. Fitness in women with BN were on an average comparable with recommendations or normative levels, while women with BED had lower CRF and higher BMI, VAT, and body fat percentage. We found 10–12% with masked obesity. A history of AN did not predict current physical fitness, still values for current body composition were lower when comparing those with history of AN to those with no such history.

Discussion

Overall, participants with BN or BED displayed adequate physical fitness; however, a high number had unfavorable CRF and body composition. This finding calls for inclusion of physical fitness in routine clinical examinations and guided physical activity and dietary recommendations in the treatment of BN and BED.
Psychometric properties of the brief loss of control over eating scale (LOCES‐B) in early adolescents
Authors: Vannucci Anna , Ohannessian Christine McCauley
Published: February 2018

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the brief loss of control over eating scale (LOCES‐B) in a community sample of adolescents.

Method

Participants were 1,116 adolescents (11–15 years; 53% girls; 53% non‐Hispanic White) recruited from middle schools in the Northeast United States. Participants were administered self‐report surveys during school in the fall of 2016.

Results

Confirmatory factor analyses indicated that the LOCES‐B total score was unidimensional, which was invariant across gender and weight status. The LOCES‐B had excellent internal consistency (α = .92). The LOCES‐B total score had large, positive relationships with the frequency of LOC eating episodes, objective bulimic episodes, and subjective bulimic episodes, and a small, positive relationship with objective overeating episode frequency. After adjusting for demographics, anthropometrics, and LOC eating frequency, adolescents reporting higher scores on the LOCES‐B total score had greater body image dissatisfaction, more internalizing symptoms, and lower trait effortful control.

Discussion

Findings suggested that the LOCES‐B is a reliable and valid measure of LOC eating in early adolescents. The availability of the LOCES‐B has the potential to elucidate the developmental trajectories, predictors, and outcomes of LOC eating across the full severity spectrum in large cohort studies of youth.
Maternal hatching synchronization in a subsocial burrower bug mitigates the risk of future sibling cannibalism
Authors: Mukai Hiromi , Hironaka Mantaro , Tojo Sumio , Nomakuchi Shintaro
Published: February 2018

Sibling cannibalism—the killing and consumption of conspecifics within broods—carries a high risk of direct and inclusive fitness loss for parents and offspring. We reported previously that a unique vibrational behavior shown by the mother of the subsocial burrower bug,Adomerus rotundus(Heteroptera: Cydnidae), induced synchronous hatching. Maternal regulation may be one of the most effective mechanisms for preventing or limiting sibling cannibalism. Here, we tested the hypothesis that synchronous hatching induced by maternal vibration inA. rotundusprevents sibling cannibalism. Mothers and their mature egg masses were allocated to three groups: synchronous hatching by maternal vibration (SHmv), synchronous hatching by artificial vibration (SHav), and asynchronous hatching (AH). We then investigated the influence of each hatching strategy on the occurrence of sibling cannibalism of eggs and early‐instar nymphs in the laboratory. No difference in the proportion of eggs cannibalized was observed among the three groups. However, the proportion of nymphs cannibalized was higher in theAHgroup than in theSHmv group. The difference in the number of days to first molting within clutch was significantly higher in theAHgroup than in theSHmv group. Junior nymphs were sometimes eaten by senior nymphs. However, immediately after molting, senior nymphs were at a high risk of being eaten by junior nymphs. Our results indicate that synchronous hatching ofA. rotundusis necessary to mitigate the risk of sibling cannibalism.
Temperature and water stress affect plant–pollinator interactions in Borago officinalis (Boraginaceae)
Authors: Descamps Charlotte , Quinet Muriel , Baijot Aurélie , Jacquemart Anne‐Laure
Published: February 2018

Climate change alters the abiotic constraints faced by plants, including increasing temperature and water stress. These changes may affect flower development and production of flower rewards, thus altering plant–pollinator interactions. Here, we investigated the consequences of increased temperature and water stress on plant growth, floral biology, flower‐reward production, and insect visitation of a widespread bee‐visited species, Borago officinalis. Plants were grown for 5 weeks under three temperature regimes (21, 24, and 27°C) and two watering regimes (well‐watered and water‐stressed). Plant growth was more affected by temperature rise than water stress, and the reproductive growth was affected by both stresses. Vegetative traits were stimulated at 24°C, but impaired at 27°C. Flower development was mainly affected by water stress, which decreased flower number (15 ± 2 flowers/plant in well‐watered plants vs. 8 ± 1 flowers/plant under water stress). Flowers had a reduced corolla surface under temperature rise and water stress (3.8 ± 0.5 cm2 in well‐watered plants at 21°C vs. 2.2 ± 0.1 cm2 in water‐stressed plants at 27°C). Both constraints reduced flower‐reward production. Nectar sugar content decreased from 3.9 ± 0.3 mg/flower in the well‐watered plants at 21°C to 1.3 ± 0.4 mg/flower in the water‐stressed plants at 27°C. Total pollen quantity was not affected, but pollen viability decreased from 79 ± 4% in the well‐watered plants at 21°C to 25 ± 9% in the water‐stressed plants at 27°C. Flowers in the well‐watered plants at 21°C received at least twice as many bumblebee visits compared with the other treatments. In conclusion, floral modifications induced by abiotic stresses related to climate change affect insect behavior and alter plant–pollinator interactions.
Moisture availability limits subalpine tree establishment
Authors: Andrus Robert A. , Harvey Brian J. , Rodman Kyle C. , Hart Sarah J. , Veblen Thomas T.
Published: February 2018

In the absence of broad‐scale disturbance, many temperate coniferous forests experience successful seedling establishment only when abundant seed production coincides with favorable climate. Identifying the frequency of past establishment events and the climate conditions favorable for seedling establishment is essential to understanding how climate warming could affect the frequency of future tree establishment events and therefore future forest composition or even persistence of a forest cover. In the southern Rocky Mountains, USA, research on the sensitivity of establishment of Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii) and subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa)—two widely distributed, co‐occurring conifers in North America—to climate variability has focused on the alpine treeline ecotone, leaving uncertainty about the sensitivity of these species across much of their elevation distribution. We compared annual germination dates for >450 Engelmann spruce and >500 subalpine fir seedlings collected across a complex topographic‐moisture gradient to climate variability in the Colorado Front Range. We found that Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir established episodically with strong synchrony in establishment events across the study area. Broad‐scale establishment events occurred in years of high soil moisture availability, which were characterized by above‐average snowpack and/or cool and wet summer climatic conditions. In the recent half of the study period (1975–2010), a decrease in the number of fir and spruce establishment events across their distribution coincided with declining snowpack and a multi‐decadal trend of rising summer temperature and increasing moisture deficits. Counter to expected and observed increases in tree establishment with climate warming in maritime subalpine forests, our results show that recruitment declines will likely occur across the core of moisture‐limited subalpine tree ranges as warming drives increased moisture deficits.
A Sustainable Tandem Catalysis Approach to Plant Oil‐Based Polyols via Schenck‐Ene Reaction and Epoxidation
Authors: Unverferth Maike , Meier Michael A. R.
Published: February 2018

Novel polyols are synthesized in a one‐pot, tandem reaction approach. First, singlet oxygen is used as oxidant in the photochemical Schenck‐Ene reaction to obtain allyl hydroperoxides of triglycerides, which are reacted in situ to the corresponding epoxy alcohols catalyzed by titanium(IV) isopropoxide. Subsequent acidic epoxide ring‐opening with perchloric acid yields a triglyceride‐based polyol. Under basic conditions applying aqueous sodium hydroxide solution, cleavage of the ester bonds of the triglyceride and epoxide ring‐opening occur simultaneously resulting in a fatty acid‐based polyol.

Practical Applications: Polyols, especially also based on renewable fatty acids, are valuable monomers for the synthesis of polyurethanes, polyester‐ and alkyd‐resins. With the here reported method, a maximum of three hydroxyl groups per double bond of the unsaturated triglyceride can be introduced, which cannot be realized with the methods reported to date.

A tandem catalytic system of Schenk‐Ene reaction and in situ epoxidation efficiently leads to plant oil derived epoxy alcohols, which can be converted to triglyceride or fatty acid based polyols. Most interestingly, three OH‐groups per double bond of the fatty acid can be obtained via this route.
Awkwardly‐Shaped Dimers, Capsules and Tetramers: Molecular and Supramolecular Motifs in C5‐Arylated Chiral Calixsalens
Authors: Petryk Małgorzata , Janiak Agnieszka , Barbour Leonard J. , Kwit Marcin
Published: February 2018

A series of novel C‐5 arylated calixsalens synthesized via [3+3] cyclocondensation oftrans‐(R,R)‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane with 2‐hydroxyisophthalaldehyde derivatives are presented. The nonsymmetrical aryl substituents of the 1‐naphthyl type may act as switches opening (ONconformation) or closing (OFFconformation) the macrocycle cavity. This group of macrocycles, depending on the kind of aryl substituent, is characterized by a large variety of supramolecular architectures. Whereas the substitution of the calixsalen skeleton by 2,5‐dimethoxybenzene groups promotes the formation of head‐to‐head capsules, the presence of a 3,5‐dimethylbenzene group favors the tail‐to‐tail dimers. Introduction of 2‐naphthyl substituents, in turn, results in the formation of a supramolecule consisting of four monomers that exists only in the solid state. Such arrangements of macrocycles generate a truncated tetrahedron shaped cavity never previously observed for this type of macrocyclic compounds.
Experimental and analytical investigations of steel panel dampers for seismic applications in steel moment frames
Authors: Tsai Keh‐Chyuan , Hsu Chung‐Hsiang , Li Chao‐Hsien , Chin Pu‐Yuan
Published: February 2018

A ductile Vierendeel frame can be constructed by incorporating steel panel dampers (SPDs) into a moment‐resisting frame (MRF). Thus, the stiffness, strength, and ductility of the lateral force–resisting system can be enhanced. The proposed 3‐segment SPD possesses a center inelastic core (IC) and top and bottom elastic joints. This paper discusses the mechanical properties, capacity design method, and buckling‐delaying stiffeners for the SPDs through the use of cyclic loading tests on 2 specimens. Tests confirm that SPDs' cyclic force vs deformation relationships can be accurately predicted using either the Abaqus or PISA3D model analyses. The paper also presents the capacity design method for boundary beams connected to the SPDs of a typical SPD‐MRF. The seismic performance of an example 6‐story SPD‐MRF is evaluated using nonlinear response history analysis procedures and 240 ground accelerations at 3 hazard levels. Results indicate that under 80 maximum considered earthquake ground accelerations, the mean‐plus‐one standard deviation of the shear deformation of the ICs in the SPDs is 0.055 rad, substantially less than the 0.11 rad deformational capacity observed from the SPD specimens. The experimental cumulative plastic deformation of the proposed SPD is 242 times the yield deformation and is capable of sustaining a maximum considered earthquake at least 8 times before failure. This paper introduces the method of using one equivalent beam‐column element for effective modeling of the 3‐segment SPD. The effects of the IC's relative height and stiffness on the overall SPD's elastic and postelastic stiffness, elastic deformation limits, and inelastic deformational demands are discussed.
Numerical study on factors that influence the in‐plane drift capacity of unreinforced masonry walls
Authors: Dolatshahi Kiarash M. , Nikoukalam Mohammad T. , Beyer Katrin
Published: February 2018

Displacement‐based assessment procedures require as input reliable estimates of the deformation capacity of all structural elements. For unreinforced masonry (URM) walls, current design codes specify the in‐plane deformation capacity as empirical equations of interstory drift. National codes differ with regard to the parameters that are considered in these empirical drift capacity equations, but the inhomogeneity of datasets on URM wall tests renders it difficult to validate the hypotheses with the currently available experimental data. This paper contributes to the future development of such empirical relationships by investigating the sensitivity of the drift capacity to the shear span, the aspect ratio, the axial load ratio, and the size of the wall. For this purpose, finite element models of URM walls are developed in Abaqus/Explicit and validated against a set of experimental results. The results show that the axial load ratio, the shear span, and the wall size are among the factors that influence the drift capacity the most. Empirical equations are mainly derived from test results on small walls, and the numerical results suggest that this can lead to a significant overestimation of the drift capacity for larger walls.
Simplified method for real‐time seismic damage assessment of motorway bridges: Transverse direction—Accounting for abutment stoppers
Authors: Sakellariadis Lampros , Agalianos Athanasios , Anastasopoulos Ioannis
Published: February 2018

In the context of developing a real‐time seismic damage assessment technique, this paper proposes a simplified model that accounts for abutment stoppers, focusing on the transverse direction. Detailed 3D finite element models of 4 bridges of the Attiki Odos motorway are developed and used as benchmarks to assess its efficiency. The selected bridges vary in length, pier typologies, clearances, and pier‐deck connections. The simplified model entails a SDOF system of a pier, with assemblies of gap elements, lateral and rotational springs, and dashpots (top and bottom), representing the deck, the bearings, the abutment stoppers, and the foundation. The effect of stoppers is initially studied, focusing on the response of the abutment‐embankment system. To shed more light on the role of abutment stoppers, a parametric study is conducted, considering a wide range of clearances. Subsequently, the effect of variabilities in span length and pier height is examined. The simplified method is extended to nonideally symmetric systems and verified against the 3D benchmarks. Finally, the model is modified to account for multicolumn piers. The extended simplified model offers a reasonable prediction of the seismic damage state, reducing significantly the computational cost, and allowing detailed parametric studies. The latter are used to develop nonlinear regression model equations correlating a selected damage index with statistically significant intensity measures. Such equations offer a viable alternative for network‐wide seismic damage assessment as part of a real‐time emergency response framework. A pilot implementation is presented, illustrating the applicability of the proposed methodology.
Blunted cortisol response to stress in patients with eating disorders: Its association to bulimic features
Authors: Vaz‐Leal Francisco J. , Ramos‐Fuentes María I. , Rodríguez‐Santos Laura , Chimpén‐López Carlos , Fernández‐Sánchez Nieves , Zamora‐Rodríguez Francisco J. , Beato‐Fernández Luis , Rojo‐Moreno Luis , Guisado‐Macías Juan A.
Published: February 2018

Objective

Clinical research on cortisol response to stress in patients with eating disorders has provided controversial and even contradictory results. As this might be the consequence of the inclusion in the studies of heterogeneous clinical populations, 3 highly selected samples were studied.

Methods

Dexamethasone suppression test was performed on 15 restricting anorexia nervosa patients without history of bulimia nervosa (BN), 17 BN patients with normal weight and no history of anorexia nervosa, and 22 healthy controls. Three days later, the Trier Social Stress Test was applied, and 8 saliva samples were collected along the trial for cortisol assessment.

Results

When the patients were considered as a single group, a slightly blunted cortisol response to stress was observed, but when the 3 groups were considered separately, the blunted response was observed only in the BN patients.

Discussion

The results support the association between blunted cortisol response and bulimic features.
Gadolinium as a new emerging contaminant of aquatic environments
Authors: Rogowska Justyna , Olkowska Ewa , Ratajczyk Wojciech , Wolska Lidia
Published: February 2018

Since the 1980s, gadolinium (Gd)–based contrast agents (GBCAs) have been routinely used in magnetic resonance imaging as stable chelates of the Gd3+ ion, without toxic effects. Generally, GBCAs are considered some of the safest contrast agents. However, it has been observed that they can accumulate in patient tissue, bone, and probably brain (causing nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in patients with kidney failure or insufficiency and disturbance of calcium homeostasis in the organism). The GBCAs are predominantly removed renally without metabolization. Subsequently, they do not undergo degradation processes in wastewater-treatment plants and are emitted into the aquatic ecosystem. Their occurrence was confirmed in surface waters (up to 1100 ng/L), sediments (up to 90.5 μg/g), and living organisms. Based on a literature review, there is a need to investigate the contamination of different ecosystems and to ascertain the environmental fate of Gd. Long-term ecotoxicological data, degradation, metabolism, bioaccumulation processes, and biochemical effects of the Gd complexes should be explored. These data can be used to assess detailed environmental risks because currently only hotspots with high levels of Gd can be marked as dangerous for aquatic environments according to environmental risk assessments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:1523–1534. © 2018 SETAC
Effects of soot by-product from the synthesis of engineered metallofullerene nanomaterials on terrestrial invertebrates
Authors: Johnson David R. , Boyd Robert E. , Bednar Anthony J. , Weiss Charles A. , Hull Matt S. , Coleman Jessica G. , Kennedy Alan J. , Banks Cynthia J. , Steevens Jeffery A.
Published: February 2018

The synthesis of carbon-based nanomaterials is often inefficient, generating large amounts of soot with metals as waste by-product. Currently, there are no specific regulations for disposal of engineered nanomaterials or the waste by-products resulting from their synthesis, so it is presumed that by-products are disposed of in the same way as the parent (bulk) materials. We studied the terrestrial toxicity of soot from gadolinium metallofullerene nanomanufacturing on earthworms (Eisenia fetida) and isopods (Porcellio scaber). The metallofullerene soot consisted of carbon particle agglomerates in the nanometer and submicrometer ranges (1–100 and 101–999 nm, respectively), with metals used during nanomanufacturing detectable on the particles. Despite high metal concentrations (>100 000 mg/kg) in the soot, only a relatively small amount of metals leached out of a spiked field soil, suggesting only moderate mobility. Seven- and 14-d exposures in field soil demonstrated that the soot was only toxic to earthworms at high concentrations (>10 000 mg/kg); however, earthworms avoided spiked soils at lower concentrations (as low as 500 mg/kg) and at lower soil pH. The presence of soot in food and soil did not cause isopod avoidance. These data demonstrate that metallofullerene soot from nanomanufacturing may only be toxic to earthworms at high concentrations representative of improper disposal or accidental spills. However, our results indicate that terrestrial invertebrates may avoid soils contaminated with soot at sublethal concentrations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:1594–1605. Published 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work, and as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.

Abstract
Residual cube strength of coarse RCA concrete after exposure to elevated temperatures
Authors: Yang Hua , Zhao Hui , Liu Faqi
Published: February 2018

An experimental investigation was carried on the residual cube strength of concrete made with coarse recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) after exposure to temperatures of 20°C to 800°C. A total of 360 cube specimens were made with 2 water/cement ratios (w/c = 0.31 and 0.45) and 5 replacement percentages (r = 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) of coarse RCA. Effects of different cooling regimes (natural cooling, water cooling) on the residual compressive strength of coarse RCA concrete after exposure were also investigated. Experimental results show that the cube compressive strength and splitting tensile strength of coarse RCA concrete diminish with increasing temperature, of which the splitting tensile strength declines quicker than the compressive strength. The effects of coarse RCA replacement percentage and w/c ratio on losses in relative strength after being exposed to high temperatures are found to be insignificant. The results also reveal that the relative compressive strength of coarse RCA concrete cooled in water after heating process is lower than that of specimens cooled naturally.
Analytical contribution of deuterium 2D‐NMR in oriented media to 2H/1H isotopic characterization: the case of vanillin
Authors: Texier–Bonniot Tristan , Berdagué Philippe , Robins Richard J. , Remaud Gérald , Lesot Philippe
Published: February 2018

The evaluation of intramolecular 2H or 13C isotopic composition of vanillin by liquid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is an illustrative example of the analytical challenges associated with molecular authenticity/traceability investigations in food products, and the determination/understanding of metabolic/synthetic pathways. Although isotopic ratio monitoring by 13C NMR (irm‐13C NMR) provides a valuable new source of isotopic information, the analysis of position‐specific (2H/1H) isotopic fractionation of vanillin remains incomplete because of the overlap of two aromatic 2H resonances, and the impossibility of separating these fortuitous isochronous nuclei by isotropic NMR. Exploiting the analytical potential of 2H 2D‐NMR in media containing polypeptide‐based liquid crystals, we show that all aromatic monodeuterated isotopomers can be spectrally discriminated on the basis of 2H residual quadrupolar couplings, ΔνQ(2H), thus enabling the determination of their relative proportions for the first time. After discussing the multiple relevant cofactors leading to the best discrimination and optimization of experimental conditions for reliable quantitative measurements by anisotropic 2D‐NMR, a comparative analysis of six vanillin samples from diverse origins is reported. How the 2H distribution might relate to the biosynthesis of vanillin is discussed.
Differences in Mercury Exposure among Wisconsin Anglers Arising from Fish Consumption Preferences and Advisory Awareness
Authors: Stevens Andrew L , Baird Ian G , McIntyre Peter B
Published: February 2018

Fish are frequently contaminated with mercury, raising concerns about the human health consequences of eating fish. We quantified mercury exposure and awareness of health advisories among three major ethnic groups of anglers in Madison, Wisconsin, using surveys of species preferences and consumption rates. African American anglers reported eating double and triple the amount of fish consumed by Hmong Americans and Whites, respectively. However, Hmong Americans preferred species with higher levels of contamination, resulting in net mercury exposure comparable to that of African Americans. Few anglers exceeded personal exposure recommendations, but the majority shared fish with family or friends. Children are particularly sensitive to the neurotoxic effects of heavy metals, and one-third of anglers reported providing fish to children. African Americans reported the least knowledge about advisories, but misconceptions about mercury existed in each ethnic group. Our findings highlight the need to tailor advisories for specific groups of anglers based on consumption rates, preferred species, and favored communication channels. Improved messaging is particularly important for guiding informed fish consumption by families.
Delta Smelt and Water Politics in California
Authors: Moyle Peter B , Hobbs James A , Durand John R
Published: February 2018

The Delta Smelt Hypomesus transpacificus is a small translucent fish that lives in the heart of California's water distribution system. It is an endemic species that is on verge of extinction, largely because it is in direct competition with people for water. This article discusses the controversy surrounding this fish by describing (1) the biology of Delta Smelt; (2) California's complex water storage and distribution system; (3) the history of Delta Smelt, including conservation efforts; (4) the present controversies surrounding it; and (5) the future of Delta Smelt. The decline of Delta Smelt is a strong indicator that the ecosystem of the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta has undergone large-scale changes that make it an unfavorable environment for native fishes. Reversing the trajectory of the Delta Smelt toward extinction will require major shifts in California water policy and water use as well as active management of the smelt's habitat and life history.
Determinants of intraday price discovery in VIX exchange traded notes
Authors: Fernandez‐Perez Adrian , Frijns Bart , Gafiatullina Ilnara , Tourani‐Rad Alireza
Published: February 2018

This study investigates the intraday price discovery of the VIX short‐term futures ETN (VXX) and inverse VIX short‐term ETN (XIV) for the period January 3, 2012 to December 31, 2015. Using Hasbrouck's (1995) Information Share and Lien and Shrestha's (2014) Generalized Information Share, we document strong time variation in the contribution to price discovery of the direct and inverse notes. We find that trading costs and market liquidity are significant determinants of price discovery. We further document that the informational leadership of the XIV increases on days when the VIX increases and on days with negative stock market returns.
Exploitation of heavy oil by supercritical CO2: Effect analysis of supercritical CO2 on H2O at superheated state in integral joint tubing and annuli
Authors: Sun Fengrui , Yao Yuedong , Li Xiangfang , Li Guozhen , Huang Liang , Liu Hao , Chen Zhili , Liu Qing , Liu Wenyuan , Cao Meng , Han Song
Published: February 2018

The injection of supercritical CO2 coupled with superheated steam (SHS) for heavy oil recovery can improve development efficiency. In order to help oil fields to improve the efficiency of CO2 and SHS utilization we must predict the thermophysical properties at well bottom. Based on the mass, energy, and momentum conservation equations, a non‐isothermal pipe‐flow model is established considering heat exchange between the integral joint tubing (IJT) and annuli. Coupled with the transient thermal conduction model in stratum and the S‐R‐K real gas model, a comprehensive model is established for the mixture flow in concentric dual‐tubing wells (CDTW). The model is solved by a numerical method and an iteration technique. The results show that: (a) the accuracy of the temperature profile calculation has been greatly improved compared with the previous model; (b) the heat‐carrying capacity per unit mass of the mixture and heating efficiency decrease with increasing supercritical CO2 content; (c) when a temperature difference exists between the IJT and annuli, a rapid flow of thermal energy exists inside the CDTW, which causes a significant temperature change near the wellbore, but the influence of temperature change on pressure profiles is negligible. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NGF steers microglia toward a neuroprotective phenotype
Authors: Rizzi Caterina , Tiberi Alexia , Giustizieri Michela , Marrone Maria Cristina , Gobbo Francesco , Carucci Nicola Maria , Meli Giovanni , Arisi Ivan , D'Onofrio Mara , Marinelli Silvia , Capsoni Simona , Cattaneo Antonino
Published: February 2018

Microglia are the sentinels of the brain but a clear understanding of the factors that modulate their activation in physiological and pathological conditions is still lacking. Here we demonstrate that Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) acts on microglia by steering them toward a neuroprotective and anti‐inflammatory phenotype. We show that microglial cells express functional NGF receptors in vitro and ex vivo. Our transcriptomic analysis reveals how, in primary microglia, NGF treatment leads to a modulation of motility, phagocytosis and degradation pathways. At the functional level, NGF induces an increase in membrane dynamics and macropinocytosis and, in vivo, it activates an outward rectifying current that appears to modulate glutamatergic neurotransmission in nearby neurons. Since microglia are supposed to be a major player in Aβ peptide clearance in the brain, we tested the effects of NGF on its phagocytosis. NGF was shown to promote TrkA‐mediated engulfment of Aβ by microglia, and to enhance its degradation. Additionally, the proinflammatory activation induced by Aβ treatment is counteracted by the concomitant administration of NGF. Moreover, by acting specifically on microglia, NGF protects neurons from the Aβ‐induced loss of dendritic spines and inhibition of long term potentiation. Finally, in an ex‐vivo setup of acute brain slices, we observed a similar increase in Aβ engulfment by microglial cells under the influence of NGF. Our work substantiates a role for NGF in the regulation of microglial homeostatic activities and points toward this neurotrophin as a neuroprotective agent in Aβ accumulation pathologies, via its anti‐inflammatory activity on microglia.
Oncogenic mutations in KEAP1 disturbing inhibitory Nrf2‐Keap1 interaction: Activation of antioxidative pathway in papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Danilovic Debora Lucia Seguro , de Mello Evandro Sobroza , Frazzato Eliana Salgado Turri , Wakamatsu Alda , de Lima Jorge Alexander Augusto , Hoff Ana Oliveira , Marui Suemi
Published: February 2018

Background

Nuclear factor erythroid 2‐like 2 (NFE2L2) encodes Nrf2, transcription factor of antioxidative genes. In the presence of reactive oxygen species, Keap1 (Kelch‐ECH‐associating protein‐1) inhibitor complex undergoes conformational changes disrupting Keap1‐Nrf2 binding and Nrf2 translocates into nucleus. We evaluated the presence of mutations in NFE2L2 and KEAP1 in papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs) and correlated them with clinical presentation.

Methods

Coding regions of NFE2L2 and KEAP1 were sequenced in 131 patients with PTC. Clinical and histopathological features were analyzed. Immunohistochemical analysis of Nrf2 expression was performed in mutated carcinomas.

Results

Although no mutations were found in NFE2L2, missense mutations in KEAP1 were observed in 6 patients with PTC (4.6%). Immunohistochemistry showed increased Nrf2 expression in nuclei of all mutated carcinomas, which presented poor prognostic features in histopathology.

Conclusion

We identified mutations in KEAP1 associated with Nrf2 overexpression in PTC. Mutations favored disruption of inhibitory interaction Nrf2‐Keap1 to enable increased antioxidant Nrf2 activity, possibly with prognostic consequences.
Double‐blind placebo‐controlled multicenter phase II trial to evaluate D‐methionine in preventing/reducing oral mucositis induced by radiation and chemotherapy for head and neck cancer
Authors: Hamstra Daniel A. , Lee Kuei C. , Eisbruch Avraham , Sunkara Prasad , Borgonha Sudhir , Phillip Babu , Campbell Kathleen C. M. , Ross Brian D. , Rehemtulla Alnawaz
Published: February 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to test if oral D‐methionine (D‐met) reduced mucositis during chemoradiotherapy.

Methods

We conducted a placebo‐controlled double‐blind randomized phase II trial of D‐met (100 mg/kg p.o. b.i.d.) testing the rate of severe (grades 3‐4) mucositis.

Results

Sixty patients were randomized. Grade 2 + oral pain was higher with placebo (79% vs 45%; P = .0165), whereas grade 2 + body odor was greater with D‐met (3% vs 41%; P = .0015). Mucositis was decreased with D‐met by the physician (World Health Organization [WHO], P = .007; Radiation Therapy Oncology Group [RTOG], P = .009) and patient functional scales (RTOG, P = .0023). The primary end point of grades 3 to 4 mucositis on the composite scale demonstrated a decrease with D‐met (48% vs 24%; P = .058), which was borderline in significance. A planned secondary analysis of a semiquantitative scoring system noted decreased oral ulceration (2.2 vs 1.5; P = .023) and erythema (1.6 vs 1.1; P = .048) with D‐met.

Conclusion

Although not meeting the primary end point, results of multiple assessments suggest that D‐met decreased mucositis.
Mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma of the tongue arising within a congenital enteric cyst
Authors: Ligthelm Louis J. , Bunn Belinda K. , Raubenheimer Erich J. , van Heerden Willie F. P.
Published: February 2018

Background

Primary intestinal‐type adenocarcinoma of the tongue is rare. This represents the first reported case of a primary mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC) of the tongue arising within a congenital enteric cyst.

Methods

A 52‐year‐old man presented with a midline tongue mass that was connected to the mucosal surface with an epithelial‐lined sinus tract. Morphological examination and immunohistochemical profiling of the neoplasm were performed.

Results

Histopathological evaluation showed a primary MANEC arising within a preexisting congenital enteric cyst, comprising both adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine components. The adenocarcinoma had a colonic‐type morphology and coexpressed CK7, CK20, and CDX2. Imaging and colonoscopy excluded a distant primary colorectal neoplasm.

Conclusion

The association of primary MANEC of the tongue with a gastrointestinal heterotopic cyst supports an origin from entrapped endodermal elements as opposed to salivary duct origin. This case raises the awareness of a rare yet prognostically important complication of a gastrointestinal heterotopic cyst.
Transoral radical tonsillectomy and retropharyngeal lymph node dissection with a flexible next generation robotic surgical system
Authors: Tsang Raymond K. , Wong Eddy W. Y. , Chan Jason Y. K.
Published: February 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to describe the use of a novel flexible, single‐arm robot in performing a transoral radical tonsillectomy and retropharyngeal lymph node dissection.

Methods

A 63‐year‐old man with a T1N2bM0 (American Joint Committee on Cancer seventh edition classification) squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the left tonsil underwent a transoral robotic radical tonsillectomy and retropharyngeal lymph node dissection, followed by a left selective neck dissection of levels I to IV.

Results

The tonsillar tumor was removed completely with a negative margin that was followed by a dissection and removal of a retropharyngeal lymph node, completed with primary closure of the site. A left selective neck dissection was then performed. The patient was tolerating an oral diet on postoperative day 1 and had no robotic or surgically related complications at 30‐day follow‐up.

Conclusion

It is feasible and safe to use this novel, flexible, single‐arm robot in performing a transoral robotic radical tonsillectomy and retropharyngeal lymph node dissection.
Dorsal hippocampus is necessary for visual categorization in rats
Authors: Kim Jangjin , Castro Leyre , Wasserman Edward A. , Freeman John H.
Published: February 2018

The hippocampus may play a role in categorization because of the need to differentiate stimulus categories (pattern separation) and to recognize category membership of stimuli from partial information (pattern completion). We hypothesized that the hippocampus would be more crucial for categorization of low‐density (few relevant features) stimuli–due to the higher demand on pattern separation and pattern completion–than for categorization of high‐density (many relevant features) stimuli. Using a touchscreen apparatus, rats were trained to categorize multiple abstract stimuli into two different categories. Each stimulus was a pentagonal configuration of five visual features; some of the visual features were relevant for defining the category whereas others were irrelevant. Two groups of rats were trained with either a high (dense, n = 8) or low (sparse, n = 8) number of category‐relevant features. Upon reaching criterion discrimination (≥75% correct, on 2 consecutive days), bilateral cannulas were implanted in the dorsal hippocampus. The rats were then given either vehicle or muscimol infusions into the hippocampus just prior to various testing sessions. They were tested with: the previously trained stimuli (trained), novel stimuli involving new irrelevant features (novel), stimuli involving relocated features (relocation), and a single relevant feature (singleton). In training, the dense group reached criterion faster than the sparse group, indicating that the sparse task was more difficult than the dense task. In testing, accuracy of both groups was equally high for trained and novel stimuli. However, both groups showed impaired accuracy in the relocation and singleton conditions, with a greater deficit in the sparse group. The testing data indicate that rats encode both the relevant features and the spatial locations of the features. Hippocampal inactivation impaired visual categorization regardless of the density of the category‐relevant features for the trained, novel, relocation, and singleton stimuli. Hippocampus‐mediated pattern completion and pattern separation mechanisms may be necessary for visual categorization involving overlapping irrelevant features.
Tumor‐associated autoantibodies as early detection markers for ovarian cancer? A prospective evaluation
Authors: Kaaks Rudolf , Fortner Renée Turzanski , Hüsing Anika , Barrdahl Myrto , Hopper Marika , Johnson Theron , Tjønneland Anne , Hansen Louise , Overvad Kim , Fournier Agnès , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Kvaskoff Marina , Dossus Laure , Johansson Mattias , Boeing Heiner , Trichopoulou Antonia , Benetou Vassiliki , La Vecchia Carlo , Sieri Sabina , Mattiello Amalia , Palli Domenico , Tumino Rosario , Matullo Giuseppe , Onland‐Moret N. Charlotte , Gram Inger T. , Weiderpass Elisabete , Sánchez Maria‐Jose , Navarro Sanchez Carmen , Duell Eric J. , Ardanaz Eva , Larranaga Nerea , Lundin Eva , Idahl Annika , Jirström Karin , Nodin Björn , Travis Ruth C. , Riboli Elio , Merritt Melissa , Aune Dagfinn , Terry Kathryn , Cramer Daniel W. , Anderson Karen S.
Published: February 2018

Immuno‐proteomic screening has identified several tumor‐associated autoantibodies (AAb) that may have diagnostic capacity for invasive epithelial ovarian cancer, with AAbs to P53 proteins and cancer‐testis antigens (CTAGs) as prominent examples. However, the early detection potential of these AAbs has been insufficiently explored in prospective studies. We performed ELISA measurements of AAbs to CTAG1A, CTAG2, P53 and NUDT11 proteins, for 194 patients with ovarian cancer and 705 matched controls from the European EPIC cohort, using serum samples collected up to 36 months prior to diagnosis under usual care. CA125 was measured using electrochemo‐luminiscence. Diagnostic discrimination statistics were calculated by strata of lead‐time between blood collection and diagnosis. With lead times ≤6 months, ovarian cancer detection sensitivity at 0.98 specificity (SE98) varied from 0.19 [95% CI 0.08–0.40] for CTAG1A, CTAG2 and NUDT1 to 0.23 [0.10–0.44] for P53 (0.33 [0.11–0.68] for high‐grade serous tumors). However, at longer lead‐times, the ability of these AAb markers to distinguish future ovarian cancer cases from controls declined rapidly; at lead times >1 year, SE98 estimates were close to zero (all invasive cases, range: 0.01–0.11). Compared to CA125 alone, combined logistic regression scores of AAbs and CA125 did not improve detection sensitivity at equal level of specificity. The added value of these selected AAbs as markers for ovarian cancer beyond CA125 for early detection is therefore limited.
Testing of Diatomaceous Earth Filtration for Removal of Cryptosporidium Oocysts
Authors: Ongerth Jerry E. , Hutton Primrose E.
Published: February 2018

Because previous studies of diatomaceous earth (DE) filtration for Cryptosporidium oocyst removal have been conducted on a relatively small scale, this study was designed to determine the performance capability of DE at the pilot‐scale level and at a flow rate greater than that permitted by many state regulatory agencies. This study used DE of moderate permeability that is commonly used by smaller water systems to provide economical water treatment. It found that Cryptosporidium oocyst removals at a flow rate of 1 gpm/sq ft (2.5 m/h) averaged 6.25 logs and removals at 2 gpm/sp ft (5 m/h) averaged 6.31 logs. In addition, average turbidity levels and particle concentrations were lower at 2 gpm/sp ft (5 m/h). These findings of equal or better performance at 2 gpm/sp ft (5 m/h) are significant because many regulatory agencies ‐ and consequently municipal water suppliers ‐ have historically restricted operation of DE filters to 1 gpm/sp ft (2.5 m/h). The findings are also important because they clearly show that DE filtration is capable of providing far greater reduction in Cryptosporidium oocyst concentrations than is provided by conventional or direct granular media filtration. The data summarized in this article support consideration of DE as a more broadly applicable alternative for Cryptosporidium control; they also support including DE filtration as a serious alternative for a much broader range of applications that include larger plant sizes, higher filtration rates, and backwash treatment applications.