bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex‐specificity in lung cancer risk
Authors: Stapelfeld Claudia , Dammann Christine , Maser Edmund
Published: October 2019

Smoking is indisputably linked to lung cancer, yet only a small fraction of smokers develops this disease. Although previously tobacco‐derived carcinogens and enzyme polymorphisms have been identified to increase the risk for smokers, recent epidemiological data suggest even sex‐specificity as a new and additional factor. Obviously, women have a higher risk to develop lung cancer upon smoking than men. Overall, the odds ratio to develop lung cancer was almost three times greater for women than for men, DNA adduct levels were higher among females than in males and mutations in the tumor suppressor gene p53 and the proto‐oncogene K‐RAS were more frequently found in women than in men. A growing number of studies suggest that the interaction between tobacco carcinogens and endogenous and exogenous sex steroids may be important. Women taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or oral contraceptives experienced to have an increased lung cancer incidence. Epidemiologic data on HRT show a significant association between both a younger median age at lung cancer diagnosis and a shorter median survival time. Another clue is the significantly higher number of lung cancer diagnosed women who are largely premenopausal in comparison to diagnosed men in the same age or women with shorter menstrual cycles. Finally, the Coronary Drug Project (men who received estrogen preparations to reduce future cardiac events) was stopped when increased lung cancer mortality was observed in the estrogen therapy group. The present review provides a short overview and discussion on lung cancer risk and the impact thereon of sex.
Racial differences in characteristics and prognoses between Asian and white patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer receiving atezolizumab: An ancillary analysis of the POPLAR and OAK studies
Authors: Qian Jie , Nie Wei , Lu Jun , Zhang Lele , Zhang Yanwei , Zhang Bo , Wang Shuyuan , Hu Minjuan , Xu Jianlin , Lou Yuqing , Dong Yu , Niu Yanjie , Yan Bo , Zhong Runbo , Zhang Wei , Chu Tianqing , Zhong Hua , Han Baohui
Published: October 2019

This study aimed to compare the differences in characteristics and prognoses between Asian and white patients receiving immunotherapy for nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We studied 390 patients who received atezolizumab as part of the POPLAR or OAK trial, and analyzed the differences in baseline characteristics, outcomes and genetic mutations in blood samples between Asian and white patients. Overall survival (OS) was longer in Asian compared to white patients (median OS: 18.7 vs. 11.1 months; p = 0.005). Race was identified as an independent prognostic factor for OS (Asian vs. white: hazard ratio 0.647, 95% confidence interval 0.447–0.936, p = 0.021), together with performance status, histology, baseline sum of the longest tumor diameters (BLSLD) and number of metastatic sites. The two groups also differed in terms of characteristics including smoking history, BLSLD, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation frequency, programmed death‐ligand 1 expression and blood‐based tumor‐mutation burden. Blood mutations of STK11, EGFR, KEAP1, POLE, GRM3, ATM and STAG2 were associated with treatment response, and TP53, KEAP1, APC, RB1, CREBBP, EPHA5 and STAG2 mutations were associated with OS. The blood‐based mutation profiles differentiated between Asian and white patients, especially in relation to EGFR (23.8 vs. 8.5%), TP53 (30.2 vs. 46.9%) and STK11 (1.6 vs. 12.3%) mutations (all p < 0.05). The different clinicopathological features and mutation profiles in Asian and white patients may explain the superior outcome following atezolizumab treatment in Asian patients with NSCLC. The results of this study have important implications for further studies on racial disparities in relation to immunotherapy.
Comparison of the seventh and eighth editions American Joint Committee Cancer classification system in oral cavity squamous cell cancers
Authors: Singhavi Hitesh Rajendra , Chakrabarti Swagnik , Singh Arjun , Mair Manish , Bhattacharjee Atanu , Shetty Rathan , Qayyumi Burhanuddin , Pai Ameya , Joshi Poonam , Nair Deepa , Nair Sudhir , Chaturvedi Pankaj
Published: October 2019

The aim of our study was to evaluate the predictive ability of the American Joint Committee Cancer (AJCC) eighth edition (AJCC8) staging system for oral cavity cancers and validate these changes rendering the hypothesis of improving prognostication. We conducted a retrospective study including all oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma patients visiting our tertiary center from 2012 to 2015, staged as per the AJCC seventh edition (AJCC7) and AJCC8 systems. Stage‐specific disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated using the Kaplan‐Meier method. Concordance index (CI) and Akaike information criterion (AIC) were used to calculate the predictive accuracy of the both systems. The study sample consisted of 863 subjects followed up for a median of 24 months. Buccal mucosa complex (BMC) was the most common site (n = 496). We observed a 25.8% (n = 222) overall upstaging in the eighth edition, significantly seen in early tongue cancers (TCs) (Stage I) and advanced BMC cancers (Stage III). An increase in CI and reduction in AIC scores were indicative of a superior predictive accuracy for the eighth edition in assessing DFS (confidence interval [CI*] = 0.650–0.654; AIC = 3,022–3,014) and OS (CI* = 0.643–0.648; AIC = 2089–2086) across all stages. The accuracy was higher for TCs as compared to BMC. Although not statistically significant, we observed an increase in soft risk factors at higher stages in the eighth edition as compared to its predecessor. We concluded that the AJCC8 has a higher predictive accuracy than the AJCC7 edition, making it a reliable prognosticative tool.
Endoscopy for gastroesophageal reflux disease and survival in esophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Holmberg Dag , Ness‐Jensen Eivind , Mattsson Fredrik , Lagergren Jesper
Published: October 2019

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a risk factor of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) and the most common indication for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Yet, whether GERD or endoscopy practice influence survival in EAC is largely unknown and was assessed in our study.This nationwide cohort study included all Swedish residents diagnosed with EAC in 1997–2013 with follow‐up to 2018. Exposures were history of GERD and endoscopies prior to EAC. The main outcome was EAC‐specific 5‐year mortality. Multivariable Cox regression provided hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) adjusted for potential confounders. Among 6,600 EAC patients (79.3% males, median age 70 years) followed for 9,138 person‐years, 440 (6.7%) had GERD and 592 (9.0%) had ≥1 endoscopy before EAC diagnosis. GERD was associated with a decreased risk of mortality (adjusted HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.64–0.80), which was only slightly attenuated by adjustment for prior endoscopies (HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.70–0.90), and further adjustments also for tumor stage and surgical resection (HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.62–0.89). Compared to EAC patients without prior endoscopy, mortality was unchanged in GERD patients having undergone 1 or 2 endoscopies before EAC diagnosis (HR 1.02, 95% CI 0.80–1.31, for 1 endoscopy; HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.63–1.30, for 2 endoscopies), while the mortality was decreased in patients with ≥3 endoscopies (HR 0.55, 95% CI 0.36–0.85). Our study indicates that GERD may be associated with a better prognosis in the event of EAC; however, the use of endoscopy screening has a limited impact on survival unless performed very frequently.
A hermeneutic study of integrating psychotherapist competence in postnatal Child Health Care: Parents’ perspectives
Authors: Kornaros Katarina , Zwedberg Sofia , Nissen Eva , Salomonsson Björn
Published: October 2019

A child's emotional and social development depends on the parents’ provision of optimal support. Many parents with perinatal distress experience difficulties in mastering parenthood and seek help from professionals within primary healthcare. A clinical project was launched in Stockholm, where psychodynamic psychotherapists provided short‐term consultations at Child Health Centers. This study qualitatively explored parents’ experiences of perinatal distress and of receiving help by nurses and therapists in the project. Thirteen parents were interviewed, and their responses were analyzed with a hermeneutical method. Three main themes crystallized; accessibility of psychological help and detection of emotional problems; experiences of therapy at the Child Health Center; and the therapists’ technique. Parents were also clustered into three so‐called ideal types: the insecure; parents in crisis; and parents with lifelong psychological problems. Parents experienced obstacles in accessing psychological care within primary healthcare. Psychotherapists with a holistic family perspective and who managed to oscillate between insight‐promoting and supportive interventions were especially appreciated. Patient categories who benefitted from insight promotion and support, respectively, were identified.
Cognitively‐Based Compassion Training for parents reduces cortisol in infants and young children
Authors: Poehlmann‐Tynan Julie , Engbretson Ashleigh , Vigna Abra B. , Weymouth Lindsay A. , Burnson Cynthia , Zahn‐Waxler Carolyn , Kapoor Amita , Gerstein Emily D. , Fanning Kerrie A. , Raison Charles L.
Published: October 2019

This study tests a group‐based secular contemplative practice intervention, Cognitively‐Based Compassion Training (CBCT), with parents of young children. We report on a randomized controlled preliminary efficacy study. Certified teachers administered CBCT for 20 hr across 8 to 10 weeks in two cohorts of parents with infants and young children. The intervention group was compared to a waitlist control group. Thirty‐nine parents and their children, who ranged in age from 4 months to 5 years, were evaluated at pre‐ and postintervention (n = 25 intervention, n = 14 waitlist control) on hair cortisol concentration. Parents also completed self‐administered questionnaires at both time points regarding demographics, physical symptoms of stress, parenting stress, self‐compassion, and mindfulness. Children of parents in the CBCT group experienced significant decreases in cortisol at the postintervention assessment, as compared with the control group. However, parent cortisol and self‐report measures did not significantly change other than a small effect on clinical levels of parenting stress. CBCT may be a positive new way to intervene with parents to lower infants’ and young children's cumulative physiological stress.
Raloxifene alleviates amyloid‐β‐induced cytotoxicity in HT22 neuronal cells via inhibiting oligomeric and fibrillar species formation
Authors: Liu Ziyi , Wang Youqiao , Qin Wenjing , Chen Daoyuan , Feng Yanqiao , Su Hui , Shao Weiyan , Zhou Binhua , Bu Xianzhang
Published: October 2019

Raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, displays benefits for Alzheimer's disease (AD) prevention in postmenopausal women as hormonal changes during menopause have the potential to influence AD pathogenesis, but the underlying mechanism of its neuroprotection is not entirely clear. In this study, the effects of raloxifene on amyloid‐β (Aβ) amyloidogenesis were evaluated. The results demonstrated that raloxifene inhibits Aβ42 aggregation and destabilizes preformed Aβ42 fibrils through directly interacting with the N‐terminus and middle domains of Aβ42 peptides. Consequently, raloxifene not only reduces direct toxicity of Aβ42 in HT22 neuronal cells, but also suppresses expressions of tumor necrosis factor‐α and transforming growth factor‐β induced by Aβ42 peptides, and then alleviates microglia‐mediated indirect toxicity of Aβ42 to HT22 neuronal cells. Our results suggested an alternative possible explanation for the neuroprotective activity of raloxifene in AD prevention.
Transforming growth factor‐β signaling confers hepatic stellate cells progenitor features after partial hepatectomy
Authors: Chen Zixin , Wan Li , Jin Xin , Wang Wei , Li Dewei
Published: October 2019

Liver regeneration involves not only hepatocyte replication but progenitor aggregation and scarring. Partial hepatectomy (PH), an established model for liver regeneration, reactivates transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are primarily responding cells for TGF‐β and resident in stem cell niche. In the current study, PH mice were treated with SB‐431542, an inhibitor of TGF‐β Type I receptor, aiming to address the role of TGF‐β signaling on the fate determination of HSCs during liver regeneration. After PH, control mice exhibited HSCs activation, progenitor cells accumulation, and a fraction of HSCs acquired the phenotype of hepatocyte or cholangiocyte. Blocking TGF‐β signaling delayed proliferation, impaired progenitor response, and scarring repair. In SB‐431542 group, merely no HSCs were found coexpressed progenitor makers, such as SOX9 and AFP. Inhibition of TGF‐β pathway disturbed the epithelial‐mesenchymal transitions and diminished the nuclear accumulation of β‐catenin as well as the expression of cytochrome P450 2E1 in HSC during liver regeneration. We identify a key role of TGF‐β signaling on promoting HSC transition, which subsequently becomes progenitor for generating liver epithelial cells after PH. This process might interact with an acknowledged stem cell function signaling, Wnt/β‐catenin.
The combined inhibition of the CaMKIIδ and calcineurin signaling cascade attenuates IGF‐IIR‐induced cardiac hypertrophy
Authors: Chen Chung‐Hao , Lin Jing‐Wei , Huang Chih‐Yang , Yeh Yu‐Lan , Shen Chia‐Yao , Badrealam Khan Farheen , Ho Tsung‐Jung , Padma V. Vijaya , Kuo Wei‐Wen , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: October 2019

Cardiac hypertrophy is a common phenomenon observed in progressive heart disease associated with heart failure. Insulin‐like growth factor receptor II (IGF‐IIR) has been much implicated in myocardial hypertrophy. Our previous studies have found that increased activities of signaling mediators, such as calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and calcineurin induces pathological hypertrophy. Given the critical roles played by CaMKII and calcineurin signaling in the progression of maladaptive hypertrophy, we anticipated that inhibition of CaMKII and calcineurin signaling may attenuate IGF‐IIR‐induced cardiac hypertrophy. The current study, therefore, investigated the effects of IGF‐IIR activation on the CaMKII and calcineurin signaling and whether the combinatorial inhibition of the CaMKIIδ and calcineurin signaling could ameliorate IGF‐IIR‐induced pathological hypertrophy. In the present study, we induced IGF‐IIR through the cardiomyocyte‐specific transduction of IGFIIY27L via adeno‐associated virus 2 (AAV2) to evaluate its effects on cardiac hypertrophy. Interestingly, it was observed that the activation of IGF‐IIR signaling through IGFIIY27L induces significant hypertrophy of the myocardium and increased cardiac apoptosis and fibrosis. Moreover, we found that Leu27IGF‐II significantly induced calcineurin and CaMKII expression. Furthermore and importantly, the combinatorial treatment with CaMKII and calcineurin inhibitors significantly alleviates IGF‐IIR‐induced hypertrophic responses. Thus, it could be envisaged that the inhibition of IGF‐IIR may serve as a promising candidate for attenuating maladaptive hypertrophy. Both calcineurin and CaMKII could be valuable targets for developing treatment strategies against hypertension‐induced cardiomyopathies.
Hypoxia modulates stem cell properties and induces EMT through N‐glycosylation of EpCAM in breast cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Dandan , Yang Liu , Liu Xue , Gao Jiujiao , Liu Tingjiao , Yan Qiu , Yang Xuesong
Published: October 2019

Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM), which is a transmembrane glycoprotein, is related to tumor progression. We demonstrated that EpCAM plays important roles in proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis during breast cancer (BC) progression. But the role of N‐glycosylation in EpCAM in tumor aggressiveness is not clear. Here, we evaluated the role of N‐glycosylation of EpCAM in stemness and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) characteristics. EpCAM overexpression increases the expression of stemness markers (NANOG，SOX2, and OCT4) and EMT markers (N‐cadherin and vimentin) under the condition of hypoxia in BC. Knockdown of EpCAM and mutation of N‐glycosylation of EpCAM maintained in severe hypoxia lead to a significant reduction of stemness/EMT markers. In addition, we found that N‐glycosylation of EpCAM is a crucial factor during this process. This demonstrates that EpCAM has a novel regulatory role in stemness/EMT dependence of hypoxia‐inducible factor 1‐alpha via regulating nuclear factor kappa B in BC cells. Hence, our study reveals EpCAM glycosylation modification as a new regulator of stemness/EMT under hypoxic in BC and points out EpCAM as a potential therapeutic target.
Deregulation of UCA1 expression may be involved in the development of chemoresistance to cisplatin in the treatment of non‐small‐cell lung cancer via regulating the signaling pathway of microRNA‐495/NRF2
Authors: Li Chaoyi , Fan Kai , Qu Yue , Zhai Wei , Huang Ai , Sun Xiangfu , Xing Shijie
Published: October 2019

Non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. As a platinum‐based chemotherapeutic drug, cisplatin has been used for over 30 years in NSCLC treatment while its effects are diminished by drug resistance. Therefore, we aimed to study the potential role of UCA1 in the development of chemoresistance against cisplatin. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction, western‐blot analysis, and immunofluorescence were used to study the involvement of UCA1, miR‐495, and NRF2 in chemoresistance against cisplatin. 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was performed to determine the effect of cisplatin on cell proliferation. Computational analysis and luciferase assay were carried out to explore the interaction among UCA1, miR‐495, and NRF2. The cisplatin‐R group exhibited lower levels of UCA1 and NRF2 expression but a higher level of miR‐495 expression than the cisplatin‐S group. The growth rate and half‐maximal inhibitory concentration of cellular dipeptidyl peptidase (cisplatinum) of the cisplatin‐R group were much higher than those in the cisplatin‐S group. MiR‐495 contained a complementary binding site of UCA1, and the luciferase activity of wild‐type UCA1 was significantly reduced after the transfection of miR‐495 mimics. MiR‐495 directly targeted the 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR) of NRF2, and the luciferase activity of wild‐type NRF2 3′‐UTR was evidently inhibited by miR‐495 mimics. Finally, UCA1 and NRF2 expressions in the effective group were much lower than that in the ineffective group, along with a much higher level of miR‐495 expression. We suggested for the first time that high expression of UCA1 contributed to the development of chemoresistance to cisplatin through the UCA1/miR‐495/NRF2 signaling pathway.
Giant choledochal cyst and infantile polycystic kidneys as prenatal sonographic features of Caroli syndrome
Authors: Traisrisilp Kuntharee , Tongprasert Fuanglada , Wannasai Komson , Tongsong Theera
Published: October 2019

Caroli syndrome is a developmental disorder caused by complete or partial arrest of ductal plate remodeling, leading to dilated bile ducts along with fibrosis surrounding the portal tracts. It is most commonly associated with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney (ARPKD). We report a unique case of Caroli syndrome, diagnosed prenatally at 24 weeks of gestation in a 29‐year‐old Thai woman. Ultrasound findings revealed the association of a fetal giant choledochal cyst with ARPKD. Autopsy findings showed ductal plate malformation, typical of Caroli syndrome, associated with giant choledocal cyst and ARPKD.
Factors associated with the informal use of HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis in Germany: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Koppe Uwe , Marcus Ulrich , Albrecht Stefan , Jansen Klaus , Jessen Heiko , Gunsenheimer‐Bartmeyer Barbara , Bremer Viviane
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Until September 2019, pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with tenofovir disoproxil/emtricitabine for HIV prevention was not covered by health insurance plans in Germany, and was only available through private prescriptions with self‐pay or through informal non‐prescription sources. The objective of this study was to investigate the proportion of informal PrEP use among PrEP users and to identify factors of public health relevance that might be associated with informal PrEP use.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study recruiting PrEP users independent of their PrEP source. Clients from anonymous community testing checkpoints, users of three dating apps for men who have sex with men residing in Germany and users of a PrEP community website, were recruited to complete a short anonymous online survey. Participants were recruited between 24 July and 3 September 2018. The results were analysed using univariable and multivariable logistic regressions.

Results

We recruited 2005 participants currently using PrEP. The median age was 38 years, and 80.3% of the participants identified themselves as male (missing: 19.1%). Overall, 71.6% obtained PrEP through medical services with a private prescription or a clinical trial, and 17.4% obtained PrEP through informal sources (missing: 11.0%). The most common informal sources were ordering online from another country (8.8%), travel abroad (3.6%), and friends (2.5%). Factors associated with informal PrEP use were on demand/intermittent dosing (adjusted OR: 3.5, 95% CI 2.5 to 5.0) and not receiving medical tests during PrEP use (adjusted OR: 3.2, 95% CI 2.0 to 5.2). In addition, informal PrEP users who did not take PrEP daily had a strongly increased risk of starting PrEP without prior medical tests (adjusted stratum‐specific OR = 31.7, 95% CI 4.6 to 219.5).

Conclusions

Informal PrEP use was associated with a higher risk of not getting tested before and during PrEP use, which could lead to HIV infections resistant to tenofovir and emtricitabine if people with undiagnosed HIV use PrEP. Health insurance plans that cover PrEP and the accompanying routine tests could ensure adequate medical supervision of PrEP users and reduce barriers to PrEP use. Our findings strongly support the implementation of PrEP programmes in countries with similar patterns of informal PrEP use.
Antibacterial potential of Swiss honeys and characterisation of their bee‐derived bioactive compounds
Authors: Godocikova Jana , Bugarova Veronika , Kast Christina , Majtan Viktor , Majtan Juraj
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Antibacterial activity of honey is not only crucial characteristic in selection of honey for medical usage but also an important honey quality marker. The aim of the study was to characterise the antibacterial potential of 29 honey samples representing the main types of multi‐floral blossom and honeydew honeys produced in Switzerland. Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was expressed as a minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC and MBC). Furthermore, the content of bee‐derived glucose oxidase (GOX) and its enzymatic product, H2O2, were also evaluated.

RESULTS

All honey samples successfully met basic defined criteria (moisture and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF)) tested in this study. Honeydew honeys were the most effective honey samples and generated the highest levels of H2O2. A strong significant correlation was found between the overall antibacterial activity and the level of H2O2 among all honey samples. Interestingly, the content of GOX in honey samples did not correlate with their antibacterial activity as well as H2O2 production capacity. A weak antibacterial activity was determined in five floral honeys, most likely due to increased enzymatic activity of pollen‐derived catalase.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that antibacterial effect of Swiss honey samples is associated mainly with H2O2. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Changes in beneficial bioactive compounds in eight traditional herbal liqueurs during a one‐month maceration process
Authors: Senica Mateja , Mikulic‐Petkovsek Maja
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Herbs are rich in various beneficial bioactive compounds and they can be used for many different purposes. One of the most common is maceration of herbs in alcohol. Different substances respond differently to extraction in prepared solutions. It is very important to enhance the highest proportion of beneficial ingredients during the maceration process in a herbal liqueur. A comparative analysis of numerous different phenolic compounds from eight of the most frequently used herbs for making aperitifs in Europe was performed.

RESULTS

In the comparison among all studied herbs, the highest phenolic content was found with Artemisia absinthium (wormwood) (14.61 mg g−1) and Mentha piperita (peppermint) (13.89 mg g−1), while the lowest content was found with Centaurium erythraea (common centaury) (3.96 mg g−1). Salvianolic acid isomers and caffeic acid derivatives were the greatest contributors to the total phenolic content in lemon balm, wormwood, peppermint, fennel and sage. These compounds contain more hydroxyl groups and they were better extracted at the beginning of the maceration process. Caraway and common centaury contain more flavonols (quercetin and kaempferol derivatives), with higher chemical stability and fewer hydroxyl groups in their structure.

CONCLUSION

The compositions of eight herbal liqueurs were highly related to the presence of different herbal ingredients and their solubility in the extract over time. Most flavonol derivatives were extracted over a longer time and the two liqueurs (common centaury and caraway) therefore had the highest phenolic contents after 3 weeks of maceration. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Dietary supplementation with pioglitazone hydrochloride improves intramuscular fat, fatty acid profile, and antioxidant ability of thigh muscle in yellow‐feathered chickens
Authors: Jin Cheng‐long , Zeng Huan‐ren , Xie Wen‐yan , Gao Chun‐qi , Yan Hui‐chao , Wang Xiu‐qi
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Muscle fat content and fatty acid composition play an important role in poultry flavor and taste. To investigate the effects of pioglitazone hydrochloride (PGZ) on growth performance and thigh muscle quality in yellow‐feathered chickens, 360 female chickens were randomly divided into three groups and treated with three doses of PGZ (0, 7.5, and 15 mg kg−1) for 28 days. Each group had six replicates of 20 chickens.

RESULTS

The results showed that dietary supplementation with 15 mg kg−1 PGZ increased average daily feed intake (ADFI) and the average daily gain (ADG) from 0 to 14 days. Furthermore, the triglyceride (TG) level was decreased by 15 mg kg−1 PGZ, whereas the eviscerated yield was increased. The relative weight of the heart and kidneys showed a linear increase with dietary PGZ supplementation, and the drip loss of the thigh muscle was significantly decreased by 15 mg kg−1 PGZ supplementation. Moreover, a* value, intramuscular fat (IMF), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) showed a linear increase, and pH24 h and drip loss showed a quadratic influence with the levels of PGZ supplementation. In particular, the PUFA proportion was increased by 7.63% and 9.14% in the 7.5 mg kg−1 PGZ and 15 mg kg−1 PGZ groups, respectively. Additionally, 15 mg kg−1 of PGZ increased the total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐PX) activity.

CONCLUSION

In summary, 15 mg kg−1 PGZ has substantial effects on growth performance and meat quality, particularly by decreasing drip loss and increasing IMF content, PUFA proportions, and antioxidant ability. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Development of multi‐response optimization and quadratic calibration curve for determination of ten pesticides in complex sample matrices using QuEChERS dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction followed by gas chromatography
Authors: Balsini Parvaneh , Parastar Hadi
Published: October 2019

In this study, QuEChERS combined with dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction is developed for extraction of ten pesticides in complex sample matrices of water and milk. In this regard, effective factors of proposed extraction technique combined with gas chromatography with flame ionization detector were designed, modeled, and optimized using central composite design, multiple linear regression, and Nelder–Mead simplex optimization. Later, univariate calibration model for ten pesticides was developed in concentration range of 0.5–100 ng/mL. Surprisingly, quadratic calibration behavior was observed for some of the pesticides. In this regard, Mandel's test was used for evaluating linearity and types of calibration equation. Finally, four pesticides followed linear calibration curve with sensitivity (0.23–0.66 mL/ng), analytical sensitivity (0.20–0.32), regression coefficient (0.988–0.995), limit of detection (0.39–1.83 ng/mL), and limit of quantitation (1.30–6.10 ng/mL) and six of them followed quadratic calibration curve with sensitivity (0.18–0.93 mL/ng), analytical sensitivity (0.25–0.86), regression coefficient (0.944–0.999), limit of detection (0.59–1.92 ng/mL), and limit of quantitation (1.96–6.40 ng/mL). The calculated limits of detection were below the maximum residue limits according to European Union pesticides database of European Commission. Finally, the proposed analytical method was used for determination of ten pesticides in water and milk samples.
Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone‐Stabilized Copper Nanoparticles as an Efficient and Recyclable Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Click of 1,2,3‐Triazoles in Water
Authors: Bahsis Lahoucine , El Himri Mamoune , Ben El Ayouchia Hicham , Anane Hafid , Ablouh El‐Houssaine , Julve Miguel , Stiriba Salah‐Eddine
Published: October 2019

A simple, efficient, inexpensive, and friendly benign route for the preparation of highly stable monodisperse copper nanoparticles with an average of 4–5 nm is developed by using polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (PVPP) as a stabilizer. Chemical reaction of PVPP and copper(II) sulfate followed by the thermal chemical reduction of embedded copper(II) ions with ascorbic acid afford copper nanoparticles‐polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (CuNPs‐PVPP) nanocatalyst, which is systematically characterized by FT‐IR, Raman, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and atomic absorption spectroscopy. The CuNPs‐PVPP system efficiently catalyzes the click chemistry reaction of azides–alkynes as well as one‐pot three‐component reactions to regioselectively produce the 1,4‐disubstituted‐1,2,3‐triazole isomer in excellent yields in water under mild reaction conditions. CuNPs‐PVPP is successfully recycled up to five times without significant loss of its catalytic efficiency and selectivity. Moreover, a mechanistic study is performed through density functional theory type calculations in order to explain the observed selectivity of CuNPs catalyst in copper(I)‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition reactions. The cheap, simple work‐up, recoverability/reusability, and negligible residual traces in the final product (0.5 ppm) of this novel nanocatalyst are the significant features of this eco‐friendly green protocol.
Insights into the nucleotide composition and codon usage pattern of human tumor suppressor genes
Authors: Mazumder Tarikul Huda , Uddin Arif , Chakraborty Supriyo
Published: October 2019

Tumor suppressor genes encode different proteins that inhibit the uncontrolled proliferation of cell growth and tumor development. To acquire clues for predicting gene expression level, it is essential to understand the codon usage bias (CUB) of genes to characterize genome which possesses its own compositional characteristics and unique coding sequences. We used bioinformatic tools to analyze the codon usage patterns of 637 human tumor suppressor genes as no work was reported earlier. The mean effective number of codons of these genes was 48, indicating low CUB. Our results exhibited a significant positive correlation among different nucleotide compositions and the codons ending with C base was most frequently used along with the most over‐represented codon CTG and GTG codifying leucine and valine amino acid, respectively, in human tumor suppressor genes. The neutrality plot showed a significant positive correlation (Pearson, r = 0. 646; P < .01) suggesting that mutation on GC bias might affect the CUB. However, the linear regression coefficient of GC12 on GC3 in human tumor suppressor genes suggested that natural selection played a major role while mutation pressure played a minor role in the codon usage patterns of tumor suppressor genes in human. Our study would throw light into the factors that affect CUB and the codon usage patterns in the human tumor suppressor genes.
Biosensor based on the directly enzyme immobilization into a gold nanotriangles/conductive polymer biocompatible coat for electrochemical detection of Chlorpyrifos in water
Authors: Ramírez‐Sánchez Karla , Alvarado‐Hidalgo Fernando , Zamora‐Sequeira Roy , Sáenz‐Arce Giovanni , Rojas‐Carrillo Oscar , Avedaño-Soto Esteban , Ruepert Clemens , Mena‐Torres Freylan , Starbird‐Pérez Ricardo
Published: October 2019

Organic conductive polymers have been widely used as active layers in bioelectronic devices. In this work, a novel approach to entrap enzymes directly into the conductive active layer is described, using a polysaccharide as a surfactant. The surfactant allowed the electropolymerization from a micellar media and it acted as a doping agent in the conductive polymer. Gold nanotriangles were added to the matrix in order to enhance the enzymatic product quantification. The composition and oxidation state of the biocompatible conductive layer were confirmed by infrared spectrophotometric and Raman studies. Meanwhile, the gold nanotriangles presence, distribution and electrochemical activity were studied by transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, dynamic light scattering and cyclic voltammetry techniques. The inhibition of the enzyme, due to the presence of pesticides, was used to electrochemically quantify their concentration in real water samples. The concentration was confirmed by gas and liquid chromatography. Therefore, this novel composite active layer allows building a biosensor with suitable performance for an early warning in environmental control, especially in countries highly impacted by agricultural activities.
Thermoelectrically Activated Chips for Optical Sensing: A portable diagnostic platform for improved immunoassay specificity
Authors: Tiburzi Olivia , Dembner Daniel , Dezsi Geza , Venkatasubramanian Rama , Astatke Mekbib , Gerasopoulos Konstantinos
Published: October 2019

Immunological‐based assays have been widely used in diagnostic applications since the initial description of the methodology for the detection of human insulin. However, the development of immunoassays has been hindered by inherent cross‐reactivities between antibodies (Ab) and closely related antigens (Ag) that contribute to false‐positive results. In this work, we utilize temperature‐dependent immunoassay measurements to distinguish between closely related flavivirus antigens—obviating the need for a laborious development effort to ensure assay specificity. A novel platform named Thermoelectrically Activated Chips for Optical Sensing (TACOS), consisting of a miniaturized well plate overlaid on an array of thermoelectric cooling or heating pixels, enables simultaneous immunoassay measurements at different binding temperatures. The efficacy of Ab‐Ag complex formation correlates with the affinity between the Ab‐Ag pair, which is in turn dependent on the binding temperature controlled by the TACOS platform. In this study, Ab‐Ag complex formation over a temperature range is demonstrated as a unique identifier of Ab‐Ag complex composition. We contend that TACOS circumvents the need for extensive and expensive immunoassay developments and therefore enables future diagnostic tests suitable for far‐forward field applications.
The Alternaria Mycotoxin Alternariol Triggers the Immune Response of IL‐1β‐stimulated, Differentiated Caco‐2 Cells
Authors: Schmutz Cornelia , Cenk Ebru , Marko Doris
Published: October 2019

Scope

Alternariol (AOH), a toxic secondary metabolite of Alternaria spp., may contaminate a broad spectrum of food and feed. Besides its cytotoxic, genotoxic, and estrogenic properties, several studies report the potential of AOH to suppress the rich network of immune responses. The specific effect of AOH on inflammation‐related signaling in non‐immune cells of the intestinal epithelial layer has, however, not been investigated yet. Since intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) are, compared to underlying cells, exposed to higher concentrations of the ingested mycotoxin, the question is addressed whether immunomodulation by AOH at the gastrointestinal barrier must be considered.

Methods and results

The impact of AOH (0.02–40 µm) on inflammatory signaling in either IL‐1β‐stimulated or non‐stimulated differentiated Caco‐2 cells is determined. AOH significantly reduces IL‐1β transcription after 5 h but shows an increasing tendency on IL‐8 transcript levels after long‐term exposure (20 h). In IL‐1β‐stimulated cells, AOH (20–40 µm) augments TNF‐α transcripts while repressing IL‐8, IL‐6, and IL‐1β transcription as well as IL‐8 secretion. Furthermore, inflammation‐related microRNAs miR‐16, miR‐146a, miR‐125b, and miR‐155 are altered in response to AOH.

Conclusion

The obtained data indicate that AOH represses immune responses in an inflamed environment, possibly leading to higher susceptibility to diseases.
Magnetic quadrupole mode excitation of a cylindrical dielectric resonator antenna using planar feed
Authors: Ojha Anuj K. , Jain Rutwik , Kumar AV Praveen
Published: October 2019

In this article, excitation of the magnetic quadrupole mode of a cylindrical dielectric resonator antenna, designated as the HEM21δ mode, using planar feeding technique is discussed for the first time. Two types of planar feeds—a dual‐microstrip feed and a dual‐slot feed are numerically investigated. Results show that the dual‐slot feed is more suitable for exciting the HEM21δ mode as it gives better symmetry of the radiation pattern and lower cross‐polarization level. A DRA prototype (dielectric constant, εr = 24, loss tangent, tanδ = 0.002, diameter, 2a = 19.43 mm and height, h = 7.3 mm) using dual‐slot feed is fabricated and characterized. Measurements demonstrate a resonant frequency of ~ 4.96 GHz, bandwidth of ~4.4%, peak gain of ~3.45 dBi and peak cross‐polar level of ~ − 11 dB for the HEM21δ mode, which are in decent agreement with numerical predictions.
Chemically modified xanthan and gellan for preparation of biomaterials for ophthalmic applications
Authors: Hamcerencu Mihaela , Popa Marcel , Riess Gerard , Desbrieres Jacques
Published: October 2019

Gellan and xanthan are extracellular polysaccharides with very interesting rheological or gelling properties. They are esterified with acrylic acid, acryloyl chloride or maleic anhydride. Consequently, due to the presence of carbon double bonds, hydrogels are obtained using a grafting–crosslinking process withN‐isopropylacrylamide andN′‐bisacrylamide. Such hydrogels, due to the presence of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide), are thermosensitive and present drug release properties which can be adjusted through the reaction conditions. This concept was demonstrated for ophthalmic applications. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Fully renewable limonene‐derived polycarbonate as a high‐performance alkyd resin
Authors: Li Chunliang , Veldhuis Theo , Reuvers Bart , Sablong Rafaël J , Koning Cor E
Published: October 2019

Limonene‐derived polycarbonate‐based alkyd resins (ARs) have been prepared by copolymerization of limonene dioxide with CO2, catalysed by a β‐diiminate zinc–bis(trimethylsilyl)amido complex, and subsequent chemical modification with soybean oil fatty acids using triphenylethylphosphonium bromide as the catalyst. This quantitative partial modification was realized via epoxy–carboxylic acid chemistry, affording ARs with higher oil lengths, lower polydispersities and higher glass transition temperatures (Tg) in comparison to a conventional polyester AR based on phthalic acid, multifunctional polyol pentaerythritol and soybean fatty acid. The novel limonene polycarbonate AR and the conventional polyester AR were evaluated as coatings and both the physical drying (without the presence of the oxidative drying accelerator Borchi® Oxy Coat) and chemical curing (with Borchi® Oxy Coat) processes of these coatings were monitored by measuring the König hardness and complex modulus development with time. A better performance was obtained for the alkyd paint containing polycarbonates modified with fatty acids (FA‐PCs), which showed a faster chemical drying, a higher König hardness and a higher Tg in coating evaluation, demonstrating that the fully renewable FA‐PCs are promising resins for alkyd paint applications. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of Antagonistic Hamstring Coactivation on Measurement of Quadriceps Strength in Older Adults
Authors: Sisante Jason‐Flor , Wang Na , Felson David T. , Nevitt Michael C. , Lewis Cora E. , Frey‐Law Laura , Segal Neil A. ,   for the Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study (MOST) Group
Published: October 2019

Background

There is limited understanding of how antagonist muscle coactivation relates to measurement of strength in both individuals with and without knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Objective

This study sought to determine whether hamstring coactivation during a maximal quadriceps activation task attenuates net quadriceps strength.

Design

Cross‐sectional cohort analysis was conducted using data from the 60‐month visit of the Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study (MOST).

Setting

Laboratory.

Participants

A sample of 2328 community‐dwelling MOST participants between the ages of 55 and 84 years, with or at elevated risk for KOA, completed the 60‐month MOST follow‐up visit. Of these, 1666 met inclusion criteria for the current study.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Quadriceps strength; percentage of combined hamstring coactivation (HC), medial HC, and lateral HC. Quadriceps and hamstring strength were assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer. Surface electromyography was used to assess muscle activation patterns. General linear models, adjusted for age, BMI, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Kellgren‐Lawrence (KL) grade and study site, modeled the relationship between antagonist hamstring coactivation and quadriceps strength.

Results

Men had significantly greater quadriceps strength (P < .001), history of knee injury (P < .001) and surgery (P = .002), and greater presence of varus malalignment (P < .001). Women had greater pain (P < .001) and proportion of KL grade ≥2 (P = .017). Gender‐specific analyses revealed combined HC (P = .013) and lateral HC inversely associated with quadriceps strength in women (P = .023) but not in men (combined HC P = .320, lateral HC P = .755). A nonlinear association was detected between quadriceps strength and medial HC. Assessment of quartiles of medial HC revealed the third quartile had reduced quadriceps strength when compared to the lowest quartile of coactivation in both men and women.

Conclusions

Hamstring coactivation attenuates measured quadriceps strength in women with or at elevated risk for KOA.

Level of Evidence

II.
Method Comparison for Detection and Measurement of Rotator Cuff Tears: Office‐based Bedside Ultrasonography by a Single Physiatrist versus Imaging Center–based Ultrasonography by Two Expert Musculoskeletal Radiologists
Authors: Tang Chi‐Tsai , Decker Gregory , Steger‐May Karen , Middleton William , Teefey Sharlene
Published: October 2019

Introduction

There is increasing interest among physiatrists in using bedside ultrasonography to assess rotator cuff tears.

Objective

To conduct a method comparison between ultrasonography performed by a single physiatrist at bedside and two validated expert musculoskeletal radiologists at an imaging center.

Design

Prospective, blinded comparison study.

Setting

Academic outpatient clinic and imaging center.

Patients

Seventy‐two unilateral shoulders were scanned. Inclusion criteria included pain or weakness with rotator cuff testing and compliance with repeat ultrasonography.

Interventions

Ultrasonography performed by the physiatrist was done at bedside during the patient's clinical visit, while the radiologists' scan was performed afterwards in an imaging center. The radiologists trained the physiatrist who was performing the scans.

Main Outcome Measurements

The primary outcome was integrity of the rotator cuff (intact, partial tear, full tear). When a posterior cuff (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor) tear was detected, measurements of length, width, and distance from the biceps tendon were taken.

Results

With use of the radiologists' scan as a criterion standard, bedside ultrasonography performed by the physiatrist for detection of posterior cuff tears had a percent perfect agreement of 72.2% for categorization as no tear, partial tear, or full tear. When evaluating dichotomously for presence of a full tear, sensitivity was 82.1% and specificity was 93.9%. Seven (18%) full‐thickness tears were missed, and all were essentially small (<15 mm). When physiatrist and radiologist measurements were compared, the mean ± standard deviation (SD) difference in length was 3.4 ± 4.7 mm, width was 2.7 ± 6.7 mm, and distance to the biceps tendon was −0.8 ± 7.5 mm.

Conclusions

Office‐based bedside ultrasonography is a reasonable modality to rule out medium/large full‐thickness posterior cuff tears. However, physicians should be aware that a percentage of small full‐thickness tears can be missed. Further imaging should be considered in suspected partial tears and full tears that may be appropriate for surgical repair.
Structural insights into Acyl‐coenzyme A binding domain containing 3 (ACBD3) protein hijacking by picornaviruses
Authors: Chalupska Dominika , Różycki Bartosz , Klima Martin , Boura Evzen
Published: October 2019

Many picornaviruses hijack the Golgi resident Acyl‐coenzyme A binding domain containing 3 (ACBD3) protein in order to recruit the phosphatidylinositol 4‐kinase B (PI4KB) to viral replication organelles (ROs). PI4KB, once recruited and activated by ACBD3 protein, produces the lipid phosphatidylinositol 4‐phosphate (PI4P), which is a key step in the biogenesis of viral ROs. To do so, picornaviruses use their small nonstructural protein 3A that binds the Golgi dynamics domain of the ACBD3 protein. Here, we present the analysis of the highly flexible ACBD3 proteins and the viral 3A protein in solution using small‐angle X‐ray scattering and computer simulations. Our analysis revealed that both the ACBD3 protein and the 3A:ACBD3 protein complex have an extended and flexible conformation in solution.