bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of mechanobiology in progression of rotator cuff muscle atrophy and degeneration
Authors: Gibbons Michael C. , Singh Anshuman , Engler Adam J. , Ward Samuel R.
Published: July 2017

Rotator cuff (RC) muscles undergo several detrimental changes following mechanical unloading resulting from RC tendon tear. In this review, we highlight the pathological causes and consequences of mechanical alterations at the whole muscle, muscle fiber, and muscle resident cell level as they relate to RC disease progression. In brief, the altered mechanical loads associated with RC tear lead to architectural, structural, and compositional changes at the whole‐muscle and muscle fiber level. At the cellular level, these changes equate to direct disruption of mechanobiological signaling, which is exacerbated by mechanically regulated biophysical and biochemical changes to the cellular and extra‐cellular environment (also known as the stem cell “niche”). Together, these data have important implications for both pre‐clinical models and clinical practice. In pre‐clinical models, it is important to recapitulate both the atrophic and degenerative muscle loss found in humans using clinically relevant modes of injury. Clinically, understanding the mechanics and underlying biology of the muscle will impact both surgical decision‐making and rehabilitation protocols, as interventions that may be good for atrophic muscle will have a detrimental effect on degenerating muscle, and vice versa. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:546–556, 2018.
Identification of good candidates for valgus bracing as a treatment for medial knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Clouthier Allison L. , Hassan Elizabeth A. , Brandon Scott C. E. , Campbell Aaron , Rainbow Michael J. , Deluzio Kevin J.
Published: July 2017

Valgus unloader braces are a conservative treatment option for medial compartment knee osteoarthritis that aim to unload the damaged medial compartment through application of an external abduction moment. Patient response to bracing is highly variable, however. While some experience improvements in pain, function, and joint loading, others receive little to no benefit. The objective of this work was to analyze clinical measures and biomechanical characteristics of unbraced walking to identify variables that are associated with the mechanical effectiveness of valgus unloader bracing. Seventeen patients with medial knee osteoarthritis walked overground with and without a valgus unloader brace. A musculoskeletal model was used to estimate the contact forces in the medial compartment of the tibiofemoral joint and brace effectiveness was defined as the decrease in peak medial contact force between unbraced and braced conditions. Stepwise linear regression was used to identify clinical and biomechanical measures that predicted brace effectiveness. The final regression model explained 77% of the variance in brace effectiveness using two variables. Bracing was more effective for those with greater peak external hip adduction moments and for those with higher Kellgren–Lawrence grades, indicating more severe radiographic osteoarthritis. The hip adduction moment was the best predictor of brace effectiveness and was well correlated with several other measures indicating that it may be functioning as a “biomarker” for good bracing candidates. Clinical Significance: The ability to predict good candidates for valgus bracing may improve issues of patient compliance and could enable the ability to train patients to respond better to bracing. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:351–356, 2018.
Bilateral quadriceps and hamstrings muscle volume asymmetries in healthy individuals
Authors: Kulas Anthony S. , Schmitz Randy J. , Shultz Sandra J. , Waxman Justin P. , Wang Hsin‐Min , Kraft Robert A. , Partington Heath S.
Published: July 2017

Determining the magnitude of quadriceps and hamstring muscle volume asymmetries in healthy individuals is a critical first step toward interpreting asymmetries as compensatory or abnormal in pathological populations. The purpose of this study was to determine the magnitude of whole and individual muscle volume asymmetries, quantified as right–left volume differences, for the quadriceps and hamstring muscles in a young and healthy population. Twenty‐one healthy individuals participated: Eleven females age = 22.6 ± 2.9 years and 10 males age = 23.2 ± 3.4 years. Whole muscle group and individual muscle volume asymmetries were quantified within the context of absolute measurement error using a 95% Limits of Agreement approach. Mean muscle asymmetries ranged from −3.0 to 6.0% for all individual and whole muscle groups. Whole muscle group 95% limits of agreements represented ±11.4% and ±8.8% volume asymmetries for the hamstrings and quadriceps, respectively. Individual muscle asymmetry 95% limits of agreements ranged from ∼ ± 11–13% for the vastii muscles while the biceps femoris short‐head (±33.5%), long‐head (±20.9%), and the rectus femoris (±21.4%) displayed the highest relative individual asymmetries. Individual muscle asymmetries exceeded absolute measurement error in 70% of all cases, with 26% of all cases exceeding 10% asymmetry. Although whole muscle group asymmetries appear to be near the 10% assumed clinical threshold of normality, the greater magnitude of individual muscle asymmetries highlights the subject‐ and muscle‐specific variability in volume asymmetry. Future research is warranted to determine if volume asymmetry thresholds exist that discriminate between healthy and pathological populations. Statement of Clinical Significance: Muscle volume asymmetries displayed in healthy individuals provide a reference for interpreting asymmetries in pathological populations. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:963–970, 2018.
Mechanical loading disrupts osteocyte plasma membranes which initiates mechanosensation events in bone
Authors: Yu Kanglun , Sellman David P. , Bahraini Anoosh , Hagan Mackenzie L. , Elsherbini Ahmed , Vanpelt Kayce T. , Marshall Peyton L. , Hamrick Mark W. , McNeil Anna , McNeil Paul L. , McGee‐Lawrence Meghan E.
Published: July 2017

Osteocytes sense loading in bone, but their mechanosensation mechanisms remain poorly understood. Plasma membrane disruptions (PMD) develop with loading under physiological conditions in many cell types (e.g., myocytes, endothelial cells). These PMD foster molecular flux across cell membranes that promotes tissue adaptation, but this mechanosensation mechanism had not been explored in osteocytes. Our goal was to investigate whether PMD occur and initiate consequent mechanotransduction in osteocytes during physiological loading. We found that osteocytes experience PMD during in vitro (fluid flow) and in vivo (treadmill exercise) mechanical loading, in proportion to the level of stress experienced. In fluid flow studies, osteocyte PMD preferentially formed with rapid as compared to gradual application of loading. In treadmill studies, osteocyte PMD increased with loading in weight bearing locations (tibia), but this trend was not seen in non‐weight bearing locations (skull). PMD initiated osteocyte mechanotransduction including calcium signaling and expression of c‐fos, and repair rates of these PMD could be enhanced or inhibited pharmacologically to alter downstream mechanotransduction and osteocyte survival. PMD may represent a novel mechanosensation pathway in bone and a target for modifying skeletal adaptation signaling in osteocytes. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:653–662, 2018.
Effects of simple rain‐shelter cultivation on fatty acid and amino acid accumulation in ‘Chardonnay’ grape berries
Authors: Meng Nan , Ren Zhi‐Yuan , Yang Xiao‐Fan , Pan Qiu‐Hong
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Fatty acids and amino acids are the precursors of aliphatic and aromatic volatile compounds, higher alcohols and esters. They are also nutrition for yeast metabolism during fermentation. However, few reports have been concerned about the effect of viticulture practices on the accumulation of fatty acids and amino acids in wine grapes. This study aimed to explore the accumulation of these compounds in developing Vitis vinifera L. cv. Chardonnay grape berries under two vintages, and compare the influences of the rain‐shelter cultivation and open‐field cultivation.

RESULTS

Fifteen fatty acids and 21 amino acids were detected in total. The rain‐shelter cultivation led to an increase in the total concentration of fatty acids, and a decrease in the total concentration of amino acids compared with the open‐field cultivation in 2012, while no significant difference was observed between two cultivation modes in 2013 vintage. Concentrations of palmitoleic acid, isoleucine and cysteine were significantly promoted in the rain‐shelter grape berries, whereas those of tyrosine and ornithine were markedly reduced in both vintages.

CONCLUSION

The rain‐shelter cultivation of wine grapes in the rainy region is beneficial for improving grape quality and fermentation activity by influence on the concentration of fatty acids and amino acids. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Enhancement of phytochemical content and drying efficiency of onions (Allium cepa L.) through blanching
Authors: Ren Feiyue , Perussello Camila A , Zhang Zhihang , Gaffney Michael T , Kerry Joseph P , Tiwari Brijesh K
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the effect of blanching (60, 70 and 80 °C for 1, 3, 5 and 10 min) combined with oven drying at 60 °C on the phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, colour and drying characteristics (drying time, drying rate constant, effective moisture diffusivity and activation energy) of onion slices.

RESULTS

Blanching of onion slices at 60 °C for 3 min and at 70 °C for 1 min prior to drying increased their bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity compared to the control samples and other treatments. Eighteen drying models were evaluated. The Modified Page and two‐term exponential models best represented the drying data. The effective diffusivity ranged from 3.32 × 10−11 m2 s−1 (control) to 5.27 × 10−11 m2 s−1, 5.01 × 10−11 m2 s−1, and 4.74 × 10−11 m2 s−1 for onions blanched at 60 °C, 70 °C and 80 °C, respectively. The higher activation energy was observed for the control (unblanched) sample and slightly lower values were found for 1 min‐ and 3 min‐blanched samples, confirming the higher drying efficiency as a result of the blanching pre‐treatment.

CONCLUSION

The use of blanching as a pre‐treatment before drying of onions resulted in enhanced phytochemical content and drying efficiency. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Solid Renal Tumors Isoenhancing to Kidneys on Contrast‐Enhanced Sonography: Differentiation From Pseudomasses
Authors: Bertolotto Michele , Cicero Calogero , Catalano Orlando , Currò Francesca , Derchi Lorenzo Egildo
Published: July 2017

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of solid renal tumors isoenhancing to kidneys in all vascular phases on contrast‐enhanced sonography and to investigate whether they can be differentiated from pseudomasses.

Methods

A computer search of the databases of 3 institutions identified 31 patients with pseudomasses and 380 patients with solid tumors investigated with contrast‐enhanced sonography. Nineteen of 380 (5%) patients had tumors isoenhancing in all phases. Images and clips of these 19 tumors and the 31 pseudomasses were blindly assessed by 2 radiologists. They were asked to differentiate tumors from pseudomasses based on echogenicity, vascular architecture, and the presence of the medulla.

Results

Isoenhancing tumors were clear cell carcinomas (n = 7), angiomyolipomas (n = 3), papillary tumors (n = 3), metastasis (n = 1), and oncocytoma (n = 1). In the 4 nonoperated tumors, the diagnosis was confirmed by progression during the follow‐up. There were 3 markedly hyperechoic, 11 mildly hypo/hyperechoic, and 5 isoechoic masses. Most pseudomasses were isoechoic to kidneys (23 of 31), with the medulla identified in 22 of 31 and 15 of 31 by radiologists 1 and 2, respectively. One and 2 pseudomasses were considered tumors by radiologists 1 and 2, respectively. One isoechoic isoenhancing tumor was not identified on contrast‐enhanced sonography. Isoenhancing tumors in all phases were differentiated from pseudomasses by combining grayscale and contrast‐enhanced sonography (areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.997 for reader 1; 0.969 for reader 2), with very good inter‐reader agreement (weighted κ = 0.81).

Conclusions

In our retrospective study, 5% of solid renal lesions were isoenhancing to kidneys in all phases. Differentiation from pseudomasses was possible by looking at baseline sonographic features and vascular characteristics.
Contemporary management of advanced laryngeal cancer
Authors: Britt Christopher J. , Gourin Christine G.
Published: July 2017

The treatment of advanced laryngeal cancer has undergone a paradigm shift in recent years, with an increase in chemoradiation for organ preservation and a decrease in primary surgery. This review will summarize the contemporary management of advanced laryngeal cancer and discuss treatment‐related toxicity and strategies to improve outcomes.

Level of Evidence

NA.
Cervical Spine Anomalies: Children in One of the Oldest Churches in Poland
Authors: Marchewka J. , Borowska‐Strugińska B. , Czuszkiewicz J. , Kliś K.
Published: July 2017

This paper presents pathological changes indicative of type II Klippel–Feil syndrome identified in the skeleton of a child uncovered in one of the oldest Christian churches in Poland (first half of the 11th century) with the archaeological layer containing the burial dated to the 13th–15th centuries. The age at death of the child was estimated at 9 to 10 years. The third and fourth cervical vertebrae of this individual were fused asymmetrically, leading to torticollis. The apex of the dens axis (odontoid process) was V‐shaped, which is consistent with clinical descriptions of ossiculum terminale. The laminae of the second sacral vertebra were found to be fused but positioned asymmetrically with respect to one another, while the laminae of the third and fourth vertebrae were hypoplastic, suggesting spina bifida of the sacrum. This configuration of anomalies is symptomatic of type II Klippel–Feil syndrome. In addition, the studied individual revealed heterotopic ossification on the supinator crest of the ulna, which may have arisen as a result of dislocation of the elbow joint. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mapping the in vitro interactome of cardiac sodium (Na+)‐calcium (Ca2+) exchanger 1 (NCX1)
Authors: Lubelwana Hafver Tandekile , Wanichawan Pimthanya , Manfra Ornella , de Souza Gustavo Antonio , Lunde Marianne , Martinsen Marita , Louch William Edward , Sejersted Ole Mathias , Carlson Cathrine Rein
Published: July 2017

The sodium (Na+)‐calcium (Ca2+) exchanger 1 (NCX1) is an antiporter membrane protein encoded by the SLC8A1 gene. In the heart, it maintains cytosolic Ca2+ homeostasis, serving as the primary mechanism for Ca2+ extrusion during relaxation. Dysregulation of NCX1 is observed in end‐stage human heart failure. In this study, we used affinity purification coupled with MS in rat left ventricle lysates to identify novel NCX1 interacting proteins in the heart. Two screens were conducted using: (1) anti‐NCX1 against endogenous NCX1 and (2) anti‐His (where His is histidine) with His‐trigger factor‐NCX1cyt recombinant protein as bait. The respective methods identified 112 and 350 protein partners, of which several were known NCX1 partners from the literature, and 29 occurred in both screens. Ten novel protein partners (DYRK1A, PPP2R2A, SNTB1, DMD, RABGGTA, DNAJB4, BAG3, PDE3A, POPDC2, STK39) were validated for binding to NCX1, and two partners (DYRK1A, SNTB1) increased NCX1 activity when expressed in HEK293 cells. A cardiac NCX1 protein–protein interaction map was constructed. The map was highly connected, containing distinct clusters of proteins with different biological functions, where “cell communication” and “signal transduction” formed the largest clusters. The NCX1 interactome was also significantly enriched with proteins/genes involved in “cardiovascular disease” which can be explored as novel drug targets in future research.
Direct arylation polymerization toward ultra‐low bandgap poly(thienoisoindigo‐alt‐diketopyrrolepyrrole) conjugated polymers: The effect of β‐protection on the polymerization and properties of the polymers
Authors: Wang Kai , Huang Jing , Ko Jieun , Leong Wei Lin , Wang Mingfeng
Published: July 2017

Direct arylation polymerization between derivatives of dibromodiketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) and thienoisoindigo (TIIG) resulted in two π‐conjugated copolymers with average molecular weights up to 24.0 kDa and bandgaps as low as 0.8 eV. The structural analysis of the obtained two polymers revealed well‐defined alternating conjugation backbones without obvious structural defects. The introduction of hexyl‐group in the β‐position of thiophene rings in the DPP units not only reduces the bandgap of conjugated polymer compared to a similar polymer containing bare‐thiophene flanked DPP but also affects polymer morphology in thin films. P‐type charge‐transport characteristics were observed for two polymers in organic field‐effect transistors with comparable hole mobilities. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 3205–3213
Fully charged: Maximizing the potential of cationic polyelectrolytes in applications ranging from membranes to gene delivery through rational design
Authors: Freyer Jessica L. , Brucks Spencer D. , Campos Luis M.
Published: July 2017

Polyelectrolytes have found utility across various applications in materials science, from electrochemical devices to biotechnology, due to their facile processing and tunable properties. Through chemistry, rational manipulation of molecular structure enables individual families of polyelectrolytes to be used in emerging advanced applications. In this perspective, we focus on cationic systems, and we describe how various structural motifs influence macromolecular properties for anion exchange membranes and gene delivery vectors. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 3167–3174
Comparison of fatigue, depression, and anxiety as factors affecting posttreatment health‐related quality of life in lung cancer survivors
Authors: Jung Ju Youn , Lee Jong Mog , Kim Moon Soo , Shim Young Mog , Zo Jae Ill , Yun Young Ho
Published: July 2017

Objective

To compare the effects of fatigue, anxiety, and depression on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in survivors of surgically resectable lung cancer.

Methods

In total, 830 lung cancer survivors participated in the study. They completed a questionnaire consisting of items pertaining to sociodemographic characteristics, clinical variables, and HRQoL. We calculated prevalence rates for fatigue, anxiety, and depression and performed multiple logistic regression and general linear modeling to determine the main factors affecting HRQoL.

Results

The prevalence rates for moderate fatigue (Brief Fatigue Inventory mean score: ≥4), borderline depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale‐Depression score: ≥8), and borderline anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale‐Anxiety score: ≥8) were 42.2%, 38.9%, and 20.9%, respectively. The main factor was fatigue, which demonstrated the strongest explanatory power for HRQoL including all 5 functional HRQoL components (ie, physical, role, emotional, cognitive, and social functioning) and global health status (partial R2 range: .13 to .19). However, anxiety (partial R2 = .21) and fatigue (partial R2 = .19) both demonstrated strong explanatory power for emotional HRQoL. In addition, depression demonstrated weak explanatory power for HRQoL including emotional HRQoL.

Conclusions

Relative to depression and anxiety, fatigue exerted a stronger effect on lung cancer survivors' HRQoL. Health professionals should consider the reduction of fatigue a priority in improving cancer patients' HRQoL following the completion of cancer treatment.
Men's perspectives on cancer prevention behaviors associated with HPV
Authors: FitzGerald Serena , Cornally Nicola , Hegarty Josephine
Published: July 2017

Background

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with the diagnosis of anal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers in men. Evidence indicates that correct condom use in addition to obtaining the HPV vaccine provides the greatest protection from HPV infections.

Objective

To explore young men's beliefs and behavioral intention in relation to receiving the HPV vaccine and using a condom correctly and consistently for sexual contact.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study underpinned by the theory of planned behavior (TPB) was conducted with male participants (n = 359, 18‐28 years) who completed an online survey. Descriptive, correlational, and hierarchical regression analyses were performed on both status variables and variables of the TPB.

Results

Subjective norms (β = 0.519, P < .001) was identified as the most influential predictor in relation to men's intention to receive the HPV vaccine, while relationship status (β = −0.215, P < .001) and attitudes (β = 0.394, P < .001) presented as the most significant predictors of intention to use a condom. Summarily, 51% of the variance in intention to receive the HPV vaccine and 44% in intention to use a condom were explained by the TPB model.

Conclusion

Results from this study will impact on future sexual health research, education programs, and interventions for both HPV preventative behaviors towards the elimination of HPV‐related cancers in men.
Acetyl‐CoA carboxylase overexpression in herbicide‐resistant large crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis)
Authors: Laforest Martin , Soufiane Brahim , Simard Marie‐Josée , Obeid Kristen , Page Eric , Nurse Robert E
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

The occurrence of herbicide‐resistant weed biotypes is increasing and this report of an acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACCase) inhibitor‐resistant Digitaria sanguinalis L. Scop. from southwestern Ontario is another example. The identified weed escaped control in an onion and carrot rotation in which graminicides were used for several consecutive years. Our goal was to characterize the level and mechanism of resistance of the biotype.

RESULTS

The biotype was resistant to all five ACCase inhibitor herbicides tested. Gene‐expression profiling was performed because none of the mutations known to confer resistance in the ACCase gene were detected. RNASeq and quantitative reverse‐transcriptase PCR (qRT‐PCR) results indicated that transcription of ACCase was 3.4–9.3 times higher in the resistant biotype than the susceptible biotype. ACCase gene copy number was determined by qPCR to be five to seven times higher in the resistant compared with the susceptible biotype. ACCase gene overexpression was directly related to the increase of the ACCase gene copy number.

CONCLUSION

Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that overexpression of the herbicide target gene ACCase confers resistance to the herbicide. This is the first reported case of target gene duplication conferring resistance to a herbicide other than glyphosate. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry

See related Article
Herbicide‐resistance mechanisms: gene amplification is not just for glyphosate
Authors: Tranel Patrick J
Published: July 2017

See related Article
Identifying exposition to low oxygen environment in human macrophages using secondary ion mass spectrometry and multivariate analysis
Authors: Court Magali , Barnes Jean‐Paul , Millet Arnaud
Published: July 2017

Rationale

Macrophages are innate immune cells presenting a strong phenotypic plasticity and deeply involved in tissue homeostasis. Oxygen environmental tension is a physical parameter that could influence their polarizations. In this study we use time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF‐SIMS) to describe how various polarizations are modified by a low oxygen exposure.

Methods

TOF‐SIMS experiments were performed using an IONTOF ToF‐SIMS 5–100 (ION‐TOF GmbH, Munster, Germany). Analysis was performed using a pulsed 25 keV Bi3+ beam, sputtering was performed using a 250 eV Cs beam. Cells were fixed by paraformaldehyde before TOF‐SIMS analysis.

Results

Multivariate analysis of the TOF‐SIMS spectra provided ion species associated with the exposure of macrophages to low oxygen concentration. We were able to obtain some species, specific of a particular polarization, advocating for the use of macrophages as reporter cells of oxygen tension in tissues.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that macrophage molecular signature to low oxygen environment is dependent on their polarization. TOF‐SIMS shows the clear capability to produce species revealing this exposition. This result opens the way to the use of TOF‐SIMS as a tool to explore hypoxia in human tissues.
Marking Stress ExPLICitly in Written English Fosters Rhythm in the Reader's Inner Voice
Authors: Gross Jennifer , Winegard Bo , Plotkowski Andrea R.
Published: July 2017

Spoken English has a stress‐alternating rhythm that is not marked in its orthography. In two experiments, the authors evaluated whether stylistic alterations to print that marked stress pulses fostered the rendering of rhythm (experiment 1) and stress (experiment 2) during silent reading. In experiment 1, silent readers rated the helpfulness of the stylistic alterations appearing in the last line of poems. In experiment 2, silent readers rated the helpfulness of the stylistic alterations appearing in heteronyms embedded in prose. As predicted by linguistic theories, when the stylistic alterations mapped onto the rhythmic pulses of the poems, and the lexically stressed syllables of the heteronyms, silent readers rated these alterations as more helpful compared with the incongruous conditions. In experiment 2, readers’ inner voices were more tuned to the prosodic nuances of the first syllable than the second in the bisyllabic heteronyms. This prosodic tuning for the first syllable in a word was likely afforded by the strong tendency for stress to appear word‐initially. In addition, the stylistically marked stress was viewed as more helpful in the early half of the sentence, when readers likely recruited more bottom‐up processes. In both experiments, prior exposure to poetry was related to a refined prosodic awareness. In experiment 2, exposure to poetry predicted participants’ prosody sensitivity, after controlling for the other predictors of academic achievement. The authors’ ongoing studies are evaluating whether marking stress explicitly in written English might aid struggling readers and late speakers of English.
Serum IFN-γ Predicts the Therapeutic Effect of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Transplantation in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Authors: Wang Dandan , Wang Shiying , Huang Saisai , Zhang Zhuoya , Yuan Xinran , Feng Xuebing , Lu Liwei , Sun Lingyun
Published: July 2017

Umbilical cord (UC)-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) show immunoregulatory properties on various immune cells and display therapeutic effects on various autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the SLE environment on UC MSCs and to identify a potential serum biomarker to predict the therapeutic effect. UC MSCs were cocultured with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from active lupus patients, and the proliferation, apoptosis and surface markers of UC MSCs were observed. UC MSC functional molecules were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction, and the signaling pathways were analyzed by Western blot. The clinical effect of MSC transplantation (MSCT) for lupus patients was followed-up, whereas baseline serum cytokines were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The coculture of PBMC from lupus patients promoted MSC proliferation. Lupus PBMCs were more potent in stimulating UC MSCs to secrete vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and CXCL-12. Furthermore, lupus PBMCs activated Akt, IκB, and Stat5 signaling pathways in UC MSCs but did not affect Erk1/2 and Smad1/5/8 pathways. Moreover, our clinical study showed that higher baseline levels of IFN-γ might predict a good response to MSCT in active lupus patients. Baseline IFN-γ levels may predict clinical response to MSC therapy for active lupus patients, which will help to choose suitable patients for clinical transplantation.
Effect of rutin and quercetin on the physicochemical properties of Tartary buckwheat starch
Authors: He Caian , Zhang Zhen , Liu Hang , Gao Jinfeng , Li Yunlong , Wang Min
Published: July 2017

Tartary buckwheat is rich in phenolics and is an excellent healthy food source. To evaluate the endogenous phenolics affecting the physicochemical properties of the starch in Tartary buckwheat products during processing, varying concentrations (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5%) of the predominant phenols, rutin and quercetin, were co‐cooked with Tartary buckwheat starch (TBS). Rutin and quercetin reduced the peak and final temperatures and enthalpy of TBS during gelatinization, lowered the aging enthalpy of retrograded TBS, and increased the trough and final viscosity of TBS paste and reduced its breakdown. The two additives also reduced the hardness and cohesiveness of TBS gels, while improving their water‐binding capacity. The morphologies of gelatinized and retrograded TBS were greatly altered with the presence of rutin and quercetin. The interaction between rutin or quercetin and TBS may be responsible for these changes, and the starch–phenolic binding force was much weaker than that in the iodine–starch complex. Our study provides insight into the physicochemical effects of the phenol–starch interactions in the Tartary buckwheat food matrix in a model system.
UV resistant transparent bionanocomposite films based on potato starch/cellulose for sustainable packaging
Authors: Balakrishnan Preetha , Gopi Sreerag , M S Sreekala , Thomas Sabu
Published: July 2017

Biobased polymers are considered as a promising alternative to conventional synthetic plastics from fossil fuels to recompense the draining resources for petroleum‐based products, which addresses several environmental issues. Here, briefly, cellulose nanofibers were isolated from pineapple leaves and the quality of the prepared nanofibers was characterized using advanced instrumental technologies. Poor mechanical properties, barrier properties, and the hygroscopic nature are notable issues that reduce the shelf life of starch‐based films, which can be rectified by the addition of nanoscale fillers. The impact of filler reinforcement on the films was investigated in different aspects. Morphology, UV shielding, wettability, and thermal degradation were carefully analyzed using polarized optical microscopy, UV–vis spectroscopy, static water contact angle measurements, and thermal gravimetric analysis, respectively. The water contact angle increases from neat TPS to nanocomposites with 3 wt% of CNF (41.250 to 51.770) and the water vapor permeability decreases from 7.32 to 5.68 × 10−2 g min−1 m−2 for 3 wt% CNF loading. Also, several enhanced properties were observed for the final product quality with respect to the reference sample, including that the potato starch/cellulose nanocomposite films were found to be UV resistant, and that higher transparency indicates the nanoscale dispersion. Further studies are anticipated to develop the materials on an industrial scale.
Alternative Saccharomyces interspecies hybrid combinations and their potential for low‐temperature wort fermentation
Authors: Nikulin Jarkko , Krogerus Kristoffer , Gibson Brian
Published: July 2017

The lager yeast hybrid (Saccharomyces cerevisiae × Saccharomyces eubayanus) possesses two key characteristics that are essential for lager brewing: efficient sugar utilization and cold tolerance. Here we explore the possibility that the lager yeast phenotype can be recreated by hybridizing S. cerevisiae ale yeast with a number of cold‐tolerant Saccharomyces species including Saccharomyces arboricola, Saccharomyces eubayanus, Saccharomyces mikatae and Saccharomyces uvarum. Interspecies hybrids performed better than parental strains in lager brewing conditions (12°C and 12°P wort), with the S. mikatae hybrid performing as well as the S. eubayanus hybrid. Where the S. cerevisiae parent was capable of utilizing maltotriose, this trait was inherited by the hybrids. A greater production of higher alcohols and esters by the hybrids resulted in the production of more aromatic beers relative to the parents. Strong fermentation performance relative to the parents was dependent on ploidy, with polyploid hybrids (3n, 4n) performing better than diploid hybrids. All hybrids produced 4‐vinyl guaiacol, a smoke/clove aroma generally considered an off flavour in lager beer. This characteristic could however be eliminated by isolating spore clones from a fertile hybrid of S. cerevisiae and S. mikatae. The results suggest that S. eubayanus is dispensable when constructing yeast hybrids that express the typical lager yeast phenotype. © 2017 The Authors. Yeast published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Production of dodecanedioic acid via biotransformation of low cost plant-oil derivatives using Candida tropicalis
Authors: Funk Irina , Rimmel Nina , Schorsch Christoph , Sieber Volker , Schmid Jochen
Published: July 2017

Dodecanedioic acid (DDA) is highly useful to the chemical industry as a versatile precursor for producing the polyamide nylon-6,12, which is used for many technical applications, such as heat and chemical-resistant sheaths. However, DDA synthesis has several drawbacks, such as high energy input and cost-intensive removal of by-products. Therefore, alternative bio-based production routes are required due to increasing industrial demand for green chemicals and renewable products. Candida tropicalis converts petrochemical-based n-dodecanes to the corresponding dicarboxylic acids by targeted functionalization. To increase sustainability of the DDA production process, we tested dodecanoic acid methyl ester, which can be easily obtained from transesterification of coconut oil, in whole-cell biotransformation by C. tropicalis. By modifying selected process parameters, a final DDA concentration of 66 g/L was achieved using a highly reliable, small-scale bioreactor system. Crucial process development included a gradual pH shift, an optimized substrate feeding strategy, and monitoring the transcriptional profile.
Identification of proteins related to microspore embryogenesis responsiveness in anther cultures of winter triticale (×Triticosecale Wittm.)
Authors: Krzewska Monika , Gołębiowska-Pikania Gabriela , Dubas Ewa , Gawin Marta , Żur Iwona
Published: July 2017

For a better understanding of the physiological background of microspore embryogenesis (ME), the protein profile was analyzed in four winter triticale DH lines, which show extremely different embryogenic potential. The analysis were conducted with anthers at the phase of development optimal for ME induction and then after low temperature (LT, 3 weeks at 4 °C) ME-inducing tillers treatment. The sub-proteome of anthers was mapped by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE). The protein species significantly more abundant (at least 2-fold) in responsive DH lines after LT treatment were chosen for identification by MALDI-TOF/TOF analysis. In total, 31 protein species were successfully identified as involved in the determination of microspore competence, stress response and in the regulation of ME induction. Microspore competence required sufficient energy supply and efficient system of cell protection that determine survival under prolonged LT stress treatment. LT stress was associated with increased accumulation of proteins typical for cell defence against oxidative stress (e.g., l-ascorbate peroxidase), chaperons (e.g., HSP70) and other enzymes/factors ensuring protein biosynthesis, stability and active cell divisions. Also here, effective cell defence required undisturbed energy supply. Among proteins that accumulated differentially in accordance with microspore embryogenic potential again the most important role seems to be played by the enzymes ensuring energy production and determining ability of plant stress adaptation. Two protein species (enolase, 12S storage protein), proposed earlier as candidates for markers of embryogenesis in other in vitro plant culture systems confirmed their utility for triticale anther cultures.
Inferentialism and knowledge: Brandom’s arguments against reliabilism
Authors: Zalabardo José L.
Published: July 2017

I take issue with Robert Brandom’s claim that on an analysis of knowledge based on objective probabilities it is not possible to provide a stable answer to the question whether a belief has the status of knowledge. I argue that the version of the problem of generality developed by Brandom doesn’t undermine a truth-tracking account of noninferential knowledge that construes truth-tacking in terms of conditional probabilities. I then consider Sherrilyn Roush’s claim that an account of knowledge based on probabilistic tracking faces a version of the problem of generality. I argue that the problems she raises are specific to her account, and do not affect the version of the view that I have advanced. I then consider Brandom’s argument that the cases that motivate reliabilist epistemologies are in principle exceptional. I argue that he has failed to make a cogent case for this claim. I close with the suggestion that the representationalist approach to knowledge that I endorse and Brandom rejects is in principle compatible with the kind of pragmatist approach to belief and truth that both Brandom and I endorse.
Drivers of population growth variations for two Mediterranean sympatric Deer
Authors: López‐Montoya Antonio J. , Moro Javier , Azorit Concepción
Published: July 2017

Detecting density‐dependence (DD) in population fluctuations is essential for population control, herd management and harvest programs. However, little information has been obtained for deer in Mediterranean ecosystems. We assess the effects of density, climate and harvesting on population growth fluctuations of two sympatric red (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) and fallow deer (Dama dama), in two hunting reserves located in a protected area of south‐east Spain. We use time series analysis of 16 consecutive years of abundance estimates and hunting extractions. We hypothesized a negative influence of density, deer hunting and drought on population growth rates. Through an integrative Bayesian state‐space modeling making possible a unified population analysis we have been able to not only estimate the effects of DD, climate and harvest extractions but also to evaluate their relative impacts on deer population in each location. We found deer populations exhibiting a very strong potential to grow from low density. We detected DD having a stronger effect than hunting and climatic factors, especially for overabundant deer populations close to their carrying capacity. Density‐dependent mechanisms compensate harvest extractions, reducing hunting effectiveness. Severe summer drought conditions had negative effects on growth rates and eventually led to delayed autumn deer deaths. The weather effect is more important the more abundant the deer are. In a climate change context, in Mediterranean environments the importance of weather factors could become much greater if both ungulates’ densities and aridity increase. Population size control here could modulate the negative effects of climatic constraints on deer and ecosystems conservation.
The First Trimester Combined Screening Test in the Indian Population: Insights from a Cohort of 27,647 Pregnancies
Authors: Manikandan K. , Rangaraj Aarthi , Ganesan Ponmozhi , Reddy Vaishnavi , Suresh Sudarshan , Jagadeesh Sujatha M. , Suresh Indrani , Seshadri Suresh
Published: July 2017

Objective To analyse the distribution and determinants of the first trimester screening risk for the detection of trisomy 21 in the population in and around Chennai, a south Indian metropolitan city.

Methods A cross-sectional analysis of 27,647 singleton pregnancies that underwent the first trimester combined screening test (FTS) was carried out. For the screen positive cases, karyotype reports or postnatal phenotype outcome were available. The distribution of the various components of risk assessment in the screen positive cases and screen negative cases formed the main outcome measures.

Results Of the 27,647 cases, 4.6% (1270) of cases had unossified nasal bone; 1.8% (499/27,647) had risk more than 1:250 (screen positive). Fifteen (3.2%) of the screen positive cases had confirmed Down syndrome while 46 had termination of pregnancy and 8 had fetal loss.

Conclusions With the current screening protocol, the screen positive rate and the odds of being affected given a positive result (OAPR) for a threshold of 1:250 are 1.8% and 1 in 25 respectively.
Antenatal Diagnosis of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia and Successful Outcome After Postnatal Surgery
Authors: Shah Deval , Vaghela P. K. , Patel Suresh , Acharya Prashant
Published: July 2017

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a group of disorders where abdominal contents protrude into the chest. The prognosis depends on the contralateral lung volume. The authors evaluated a case of left sided diaphragmatic hernia that was diagnosed at 32 week, and confirmed by MRI. Sonography based Lung to Head circumference ratio (LHR) was calculated. The case was managed at a tertiary care centre where the newborn was immediately shifted to the pediatrician and pediatric surgeon and was operated. Antenatal sonography is the primary modality to diagnose CDH. LHR based on sonography is the key to predict pulmonary hypoplasia and, an MRI is additive. The management needs a multidisciplinary approach.
Maternal alterations induced by exposure to an unfamiliar home cage in early underfed dams
Authors: Salas Manuel , Regalado Mirelta , Torrero Carmen , Rubio Lorena
Published: July 2017

The expression of different behavioral components in the adult rat depends on a number of early influences, including age, hormones, manipulations of sensory cues, and perinatal undernutrition, all of which impact the development of brain areas underlying adaptive processes, maternal behavior, and the response to novelty. The current study investigates the effects of pre‐ and neonatal undernutrition on various components of maternal behavior of dams exposed to the challenge of an unfamiliar home cage on days 4, 8, and 12 of lactation. Food restriction was initiated from gestational day (G) G6 to G19 when dams received 50–70% of the normal balanced diet, followed by 100% from G20 to G21. After birth, pups were underfed by alternating every 12 h between two lactating dams, one of which, had ligated nipples. Weaning was at 25 days of age followed by an ad libitum diet until postpartum day 90, when females were mated, and subsequently tested for maternal behavior in an unfamiliar cage. The results indicated that in early underfed mothers the frequency of handling wood shavings and of, approaching, licking, crouching, and grasping pups for retrieval was significantly reduced. Moreover, self‐grooming increased substantially in the underfed dams, but the frequency of rearing was reduced. Additionally, the body weight of pups nursed by early underfed dams was significantly lower than that of control pups. These findings suggest a relation between early food restriction and the deficient maternal care observed when these dams were challenged by exposure to an unfamiliar home cage.
Galantamine administration reduces reactive astrogliosis and upregulates the anti‐oxidant enzyme catalase in rats submitted to neonatal hypoxia ischemia
Authors: Odorcyk F.K. , Nicola F. , Duran‐Carabali L.E. , Figueiró F. , Kolling J. , Vizuete A. , Konrath E.L. , Gonçalves C.A. , Wyse A.T.S. , Netto C.A.
Published: July 2017

Neonatal hypoxia ischemia (HI) plays a role in the etiology of several neurological pathologies and causes severe sequelae. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and cholinesterase inhibitors have demonstrated a positive action over HI induced deficits. In order to evaluate the effects of pre and post‐hypoxia administrations of galantamine, a cholinesterase inhibitor, in a model of perinatal HI, Wistar rats in the post‐natal day 7 (PND7) were subjected to a combination of unilateral occlusion of the right carotid artery with the exposure to a 1 h hypoxia. Intraperitoneal injections of galantamine were administered in two different protocols: one pre and other post‐hypoxia. The analysis of brain structures volume at PND45 showed that pre‐hypoxia galantamine treatment prevented tissue injury to the ipsilesional hippocampus. Also, immunofluorescence showed HI‐induced increase in the number of astrocytes that was prevented by pre‐hypoxia treatment. Biochemical analysis was performed in the ipsilesional hippocampus at PND8 and revealed that pre‐hypoxia galantamine treatment: 1) prevented the neuronal loss induced by HI; 2) reduced the HI‐induced hypertrophy of astrocytes; and 3) caused an increase in the activity of the anti‐oxidant enzyme catalase. Overall, treatment with galantamine was able to prevent the brain damage, increase the survival of neurons, reduce astrocytic reaction and increase the activity of the anti‐oxidant enzyme catalase in rats submitted to neonatal hypoxia ischemia.
Hymenoplasty and Muslim Patients: Islamic Ethico-Legal Perspectives
Authors: Bawany Mohammad H. , Padela Aasim I.
Published: July 2017

Background

Hymenoplasty, commonly called “revirginization,” is a controversial procedure that pushes the scope of medical practice to satisfy cultural and/or religious “needs.”

Aim

To outline the sociocultural contexts underlying patient requests for hymenoplasty and present Islamic juridical views on the moral status of hymenoplasty for Muslim patients.

Methods

Narrative review of the extant bioethics literature and leading Islamic ethico-legal verdicts.

Outcomes

We identified “Western” and Islamic bioethical debates on hymenoplasty and the critical concepts that underpin ethical justifications for and against the procedure.

Results

From a Western-ethics perspective, the life-saving potential of the procedure is weighed against the role of the surgeon in directly assisting in a deception and in indirectly promoting cultural practices of sexual inequality. From an Islamic bioethical vantage point, jurists offer two opinions. The first is that the surgery is always impermissible. The second is that although the surgery is generally impermissible, it can become licit when the risks of not having postcoital bleeding harm are sufficiently great.

Clinical Implications

Patient requests for hymenoplasty should be approached by surgeons with a willingness to understand patients' social contexts and reasons for pursuing the procedure and are ethically justified by leading Islamic jurists in particular circumstances.

Strengths and Limitations

This article presents emic and etic perspectives on hymenoplasty in Muslim patients, although our review of the Islamic bioethical stances might have missed some juridical opinions and important considerations. Further, Muslims, even devout ones, might not be beholden to Islamic juridical views on medical procedures and thus physicians should not make assumptions about the rationale for, and ethical views of, patients seeking hymenoplasty.

Conclusion

This article provides critical insight into how Muslim patients, and Islamic jurists, evaluate the moral contexts of hymenoplasty.