bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
B cell hyperactivation in an Ackr4-deficient mouse strain is not caused by lack of ACKR4 expression
Authors: Eckert Nadine , Werth Kathrin , Willenzon Stefanie , Tan Likai , Förster Reinhold
Published: December 2019

The majority of genetically modified C57BL/6 mice contain congenic passenger DNA around the targeted gene locus as they were generated from 129-derived embryonic stem cells (ESCs) with subsequent backcrossing to the C57BL/6 genetic background. When studying the role of atypical chemokine receptor 4 (ACKR4) in the immune system, we realized that the two available Ackr4-deficient mouse strains (Ackr4−/− and Ackr4GFP/GFP) show profoundly different phenotypes: Compared to wild-type and Ackr4GFP/GFP mice, Ackr4−/− mice show a strong accumulation of plasma blasts in mesenteric lymph node and spleen as well as increased B cell proliferation after in vitro activation. This phenotype was maintained after further backcrossing to C57BL/6 mice and was even present in heterozygous Ackr4+/− animals, suggesting that a gene variant on the targeted chromosome might cause this phenotype. Exome sequencing revealed that a region of approximately 20 Mbp around the Ackr4 locus on chromosome 9 still originates from the 129 background based on high variant density observed. In activated Ackr4−/− and Ackr4GFP/GFP B cells, transcripts of genes around the Ackr4 locus were equally deregulated compared to C57BL/6 B cells, whereas increased expression of IL-6 was selectively observed in B cells of Ackr4−/− mice. Because the gene encoding for IL-6 is placed on chromosome 5 these findings suggest that passenger DNA around the Ackr4 locus has an indirect effect on B cell activation and IL-6 production. Results of the present study should not only lead to the reinterpretation of data from earlier studies using Ackr4−/− mice but should remind the scientific community about the limitations of mouse models using mice created by gene-targeting of nonsyngeneic ESCs.
Combination of sivelestat and N-acetylcysteine alleviates the inflammatory response and exceeds standard treatment for acetaminophen-induced liver injury
Authors: Raevens Sarah , Van Campenhout Sanne , Debacker Pieter-Jan , Lefere Sander , Verhelst Xavier , Geerts Anja , Van Vlierberghe Hans , Colle Isabelle , Devisscher Lindsey
Published: December 2019

Hepatocyte death during acetaminophen (APAP) intoxication elicits a reactive inflammatory response, with hepatic recruitment of neutrophils and monocytes, which further aggravates liver injury. Neutrophil elastase (NE), secreted by activated neutrophils, carries degradative and cytotoxic functions and maintains a proinflammatory state. We investigated NE as a therapeutic target in acetaminophen-induced liver injury (AILI). C57BL/6 mice were administered a toxic dose of APAP, 2 h prior to receiving the NE inhibitor sivelestat, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), or a combination therapy, and were euthanized after 24 and 48 h. Upon APAP overdose, neutrophils and monocytes infiltrate the injured liver, accompanied by increased levels of NE. Combination therapy of NAC and sivelestat significantly limits liver damage, as evidenced by lower serum transaminase levels and less hepatic necrosis compared to mice that received APAP only, and this to a greater extent than NAC monotherapy. Lower hepatic expression of proinflammatory markers was observed in the combination treatment group, and flow cytometry revealed significantly less monocyte influx in livers from mice treated with the combination therapy, compared to untreated mice and mice treated with NAC only. The potential of NE to induce leukocyte migration was confirmed in vitro. Importantly, sivelestat did not impair hepatic repair. In conclusion, combination of NE inhibition with sivelestat and NAC dampens the inflammatory response and reduces liver damage following APAP overdose. This strategy exceeds the standard of care and might represent a novel therapeutic option for AILI.
Enterovirus detection and serotyping of fecal material collected from three children living on the outskirts of Belém city, Amazon region, Brazil, during the first 3 years of life (1983‐1986)
Authors: Coutinho Carla Rafaela Monteiro , Siqueira Jones Anderson Monteiro , Machado Raiana Scerni , Bandeira Renato Da Silva , Ferreira James Lima , Alves Jainara Cristina Dos Santos , Gabbay Yvone Benchimol , Tavares Fernando Neto
Published: December 2019

In the current investigation, fecal material was obtained during a community‐based longitudinal study conducted from 1983 to 1986. This study consisted of 71 children aged newborn to 3 years. A total of 216 samples from three of these children were screened by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) for the presence of enteroviruses, and positive samples were serotyped by VP1 and VP3 sequencing of the viral genome. Of these, 12 (5.6%) came from symptomatic cases, and the remaining asymptomatic cases were collected fortnightly during the 3 years of study. A positivity of 63.4% (137/216) was obtained by RT‐qPCR, with 58.3% (7/12) in relation to the symptomatic group and 63.7% (130/204) in relation to the asymptomatic group. The 137 positive samples were inoculated into the RD, HEp2C, and L20B cell lines, and the cytopathic effect was observed in 37.2% (51/137) samples. It was also possible to identify 40.9% (56/137), between isolated (n = 46) and nonisolated (n = 10). Enterovirus serotype diversity (n = 25) was identified in this study, with the predominant species being B (80.3%), followed by C (16.1%) and A (3.6%). Cases of reinfection by different serotypes were also observed in the three children studied. Analyses involving different age groups of these minors confirmed that the most affected age was between 12 to 24 months, with a prevalence of 77.6% (52/67). The enterovirus (EV) circulated in the 3 years of research, showed peaks in some months, without defined seasonality. This study demonstrated a high circulation and serotype diversity of EV in fecal samples, collected over 30 years ago. This endorsed the evaluation of important points of the epidemiology of these viruses, such as the presence of coinfection and reinfection of the same individual by different circulating serotypes. Understanding the frequency and duration of EV infections is important in determining their association with persistent diarrhea.
Murine maternal dietary restriction affects neural Humanin expression and cellular profile
Authors: Baldauf Claire , Sondhi Monica , Shin Bo‐Chul , Ko Young Eun , Ye Xin , Lee Kuk‐Wha , Devaskar Sherin U.
Published: December 2019

To understand the cellular basis for the neurodevelopmental effects of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), we examined the global and regional expression of various cell types within murine (Mus musculus) fetal brain. Our model employed maternal calorie restriction to 50% daily food intake from gestation day 10–19, producing IUGR offspring. Offspring had smaller head sizes with larger head:body ratios indicating a head sparing IUGR effect. IUGR fetuses at embryonic day 19 (E19) had reduced nestin (progenitors), β‐III tubulin (immature neurons), Glial fibrillary acidic protein (astrocytes), and O4 (oligodendrocytes) cell lineages via immunofluorescence quantification and a 30% reduction in cortical thickness. No difference was found in Bcl‐2 or Bax (apoptosis) between controls and IUGR, though qualitatively, immunoreactivity of doublecortin (migration) and Ki67 (proliferation) was decreased. In the interest of examining a potential therapeutic peptide, we next investigated a novel pro‐survival peptide, mouse Humanin (mHN). Ontogeny examination revealed highest mHN expression at E19, diminishing by postnatal day 15 (P15), and nearly absent in adult (3 months). Subanalysis by sex at E19 yielded higher mHN expression among males during fetal life, without significant difference between sexes postnatally. Furthermore, female IUGR mice at E19 had a greater increase in cortical mHN versus the male fetus over their respective controls. We conclude that maternal dietary restriction‐associated IUGR interferes with neural progenitors differentiating into the various cellular components populating the cerebral cortex, and reduces cerebral cortical size. mHN expression is developmental stage and sex specific, with IUGR, particularly in the females, adaptively increasing its expression toward mediating a pro‐survival approach against nutritional adversity.
Diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi associated with acacia trees in southwestern Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mahdhi Mosbah , Tounekti Taieb , Abada Emad , Al‐Faifi Zarraq , Khemira Habib
Published: December 2019

Acacia species produce extensive, deep root systems with a capacity to develop mycorrhizal symbioses that facilitate plant nutrition via enhanced soil nutrient absorption. This study aimed to evaluate the mycorrhizal status and the diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) associated with acacia trees in southwestern Saudi Arabia. The mycorrhizal status varied greatly between species. The highest values of AMF root colonization and spore density were observed in the roots and in the rhizospheric soil of Acacia negrii. DNA was extracted from plant roots and the AMF large subunit ribosomal DNA (LSU rDNA) was amplified by a nested polymerase chain reaction. A total of 274 LSU rDNA cloned fragments from roots of the three acacia trees were sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a high AMF diversity, especially in Acacia tortilis. On the basis of LSU rDNA sequences, AMF was grouped into five genera: Glomus, Claroideoglomus, Acaulospora, Gigaspora, and Scutellospora. The genus Glomus fungi were the dominant colonizers of all three acacia species, while the genus Scutellospora fungi were found only in A. tortilis roots. The high AMF‐acacia diversity suggests that AMF plays an important role in the sustainability of acacia species in the arid environment.
Distinct biotite‐weathering activities of Arthrobacter pascens F74 under different contact conditions
Authors: Sun Yue , Wang Yuanli , Li Lei , Sun Lijing , He Linyan , Sheng Xiafang
Published: December 2019

Bacteria play important roles in mineral weathering and soil formation. However, little is known regarding the interactions between biotite and Arthrobacter strains. In this study, the mineral–mineral activities of the Arthrobacter pascens F74 isolated from a weathered rock surface were evaluated for its weathering behavior under direct contact and no contact with biotite. No contact was obtained by using dialysis bags. When directly in contact with biotite, Al and Fe concentrations increased by 9‐ to 47‐fold compared with the controls in the presence of strain F74. Furthermore, strain F74 increased mobilized Al by 106% to 175% and Fe by 29% to 123% under direct contact than under no contact conditions. During biotite dissolution, significantly higher cell numbers and lower pH in the culture medium were observed in the presence of strain F74 under direct contact conditions than under no contact conditions. Significantly higher gluconic acid concentration and glucose dehydrogenase activity were found under direct contact conditions than under no contact and no biotite conditions. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed cell adhesion on the biotite surface. These results demonstrated that strain F74 behaved differently with respect to biotite‐weathering effectiveness and mechanisms under different contact conditions. The results also suggested that direct contact between biotite and strain F74 was important for the production of gluconic acid, cell adhesion on the mineral surface, and the mineral dissolution of the strain.
A statistical prediction model for summer extreme precipitation days over the northern central China
Authors: Han Tingting , Li Shangfeng , Hao Xin , Guo Xinyi
Published: December 2019

The characteristics of summer precipitation over northern central China (NC China) and its associated atmospheric circulation have been documented in many previous studies. However, the prediction of extreme precipitation events, which is vital for water resource management and agricultural yield, has received little attention. In this study, we attempted to establish a statistical model to predict mid‐summer extreme precipitation days (EPDs) over NC China, based on a year‐to‐year increment (DY) approach. Three variables—preceding early‐spring snow cover DY over western China, previous early‐summer sea surface temperature (SST) DY in the North Pacific, and SST DY differences between the equatorial western and eastern Pacific—were selected as potential predictors. The first predictor exerted an impact on precipitable water content anomalies, South Asian high and vertical movement anomalies over NC China through anomalous soil moisture over northern China. The latter two predictors affected the EPDs over NC China via modulating moisture transport originating from tropical oceans. Further results showed that the prediction model performed well in predicting the inter‐annual variation of EPDs, with respective correlation coefficients of .79/.67 between the predicted and observed EPDs DY/EPDs for 1980–2014. The agreement index of the prediction model was 0.67 and the Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency was 0.37, suggesting good capabilities of the prediction model. Both the one‐year‐out cross‐validation test for 1980–2014 and independent hindcast for 1995–2014 demonstrated that these three predictors showed skilful predictions of EPDs over NC China. The cross‐validation (hindcast) simulated EPDs DY achieved a significant correlation coefficient of .74 (.78) with the observations, along with positive Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency values. Notably, the decadal shift of EPDs around the 2000s was successfully replicated in both cross‐validation and hindcast results.
Exposure to radial extracorporeal shockwaves induces muscle regeneration after muscle injury in a surgical rat model
Authors: Langendorf Eva K. , Klein Anja , Drees Philipp , Rommens Pol M. , Mattyasovszky Stefan G. , Ritz Ulrike
Published: December 2019

The leading cause of training interruption in sport is a muscle injury, for which the standard treatment is nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). To find alternative treatments, we investigated whether the radial extracorporeal shockwave application (rESWT) could stimulate muscle regeneration. A lesion with complete rupture (grade III muscle tear) was set in the musculus rectus femoris of 12‐week‐old Wistar rats, and the NSAID diclofenac, rESWT, or a combined therapy were applied on day 0, 3, and 5 directly following the surgery. Rats were euthanized at 2, 4, and 7 days after surgery and the area of muscle lesion was excised for histological and gene expression analysis to determine the progress in the healing of damaged fibers and tissue regeneration. The best effect on muscle regeneration was observed in the group treated with rESWT alone. Monotherapy by diclofenac showed a smaller but still positive effect and lowest effects were detected when both therapies were applied. rESWT alone demonstrated a significant upregulation of the muscle markers MyoD and myosin. The presence of myosin gene expression indicated newly formed muscle fibers, which was confirmed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Seven days after injury the amount of mononucleated cell decreased and regenerating fibers could be detected. This effect is most pronounced in the group treated with rESWT alone. In our study, shockwaves demonstrated the best effect on muscle regeneration. Therefore, we recommend prospective clinical studies to analyze the effect of rESWT after sports trauma to improve muscle regeneration and to shorten the rehabilitation.
Impact of adjuvant chemotherapy regimen on survival outcomes in immunohistochemical subtypes of ampullary carcinoma
Authors: Al Abbas Amr I. , Falvello Virginia , Zenati Mazen , Mani Ashika , Hogg Melissa E. , Zeh Herbert J. , Singhi Aatur , Bahary Nathan , Zureikat Amer H.
Published: December 2019

Background and Objectives

Ampullary adenocarcinoma (AA) is classified by immunohistochemical (IHC) subtypes into intestinal (IN), pancreatobiliary (PB), and ambiguous (AM). The impact of adjuvant therapy on IHC subtype and disease stage is unclear. We examined the effect of adjuvant chemotherapy regimen on survival of ampullary cancers by IHC subtype and disease stage.

Methods

Review of pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) performed for AA between 2005 and 2013 at a single center. The impact of regimen on IHC subtype and stage was analyzed.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐one patients were subtyped: IN = 32%, PB = 48%, and AM = 20% with overall survival of 45.6, 31.3, and 46.9 months, respectively. PB had higher pathologic T‐stage, positive lymph node disease, and perineural and lymphovascular invasion (P < .05). 5‐Fluorouracil (FU)–based adjuvant therapy improved survival compared to no treatment (87.4 vs 32.1 months; P = .046), and receipt of 5‐FU emerged as an independent predictor of improved survival (hazard ratio [HR] 0.244; P = .031) regardless of subtype. 5‐FU was superior to Gemcitabine in advanced‐stage disease (stage IIB and III vs I+IIA, HR: 0.35; P < .05).

Conclusions

Adjuvant therapy with 5‐FU confers a survival benefit in patients with advanced‐stage AA regardless of subtype. The impact of various chemotherapy regimens on subtypes of ampullary cancer warrants further investigation.
Magnetic detection of sentinel nodes in oral squamous cell carcinoma by means of superparamagnetic iron oxide contrast
Authors: Hernando Josué , Aguirre Pablo , Aguilar‐Salvatierra Antonio , Leizaola‐Cardesa Ignacio Osoitz , Bidaguren Ainhoa , Gómez‐Moreno Gerardo
Published: December 2019

The aim was to evaluate sentinel node detection capacity by means of a magnetic probe in 11 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma at stages T1‐T2 received submucosal injections of a superparamagnetic iron oxide contrast agent (SPIO). A magnetic probe was used for sentinel node biopsy. The use of SPIO and magnetic probes in the early stages of oral cancer may offer an alternative to conventional radioisotope techniques and/or elective neck dissection.
Gastronomy experiential traits and their effects on intentions for recommendation: A fuzzy set approach
Authors: Correia Antonia , Kim Seongseop (Sam) , Kozak Metin
Published: December 2019

Local food is a motivation that drives international tourists to visit a certain destination and to enrich their experiential quality. Although considerable effort has been exerted in investigating the relationship between the importance of local food and satisfaction and future intentions, no study has explored gastronomical experience by using fuzzy set analysis. The present study aims to explore the influence of local food attributes on customer satisfaction and intentions to recommend through a fuzzy set analysis. This study uses empirical data from 1,376 international tourists visiting Hong Kong. Findings suggest that the attributes of local food and their influence on the intentions to recommend vary in accordance with the type of restaurants operating in Hong Kong. The results of this study shed practical implications, such as the development of different symbolic meanings of gastronomy and service for international diners at different restaurants.
Endoscopic Nasopharyngectomy Combined with a Nerve‐sparing Transpterygoid Approach
Authors: Geltzeiler Mathew , Turner Meghan , Rimmer Ryan , Zenonos George , Hebert Andrea , Snyderman Carl , Gardner Paul , Fernandez‐Miranda Juan , Wang Eric W.
Published: December 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Surgical management of nasopharyngeal tumors has evolved in the endoscopic era. Lateral exposure remains difficult especially near the petrous internal carotid artery and bony Eustachian tube (ET). Our study examines the need to sacrifice the vidian and greater palatine nerves in order to successfully perform en bloc endoscopic nasopharyngectomy.

Methods

Four cadaveric specimens (eight sides) were dissected bilaterally using a binarial, extended, endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA). Nasopharyngectomy was completed including an extended transptyergoid approach for resection of the cartilaginous ET at its junction with the bony ET. Dissection was attempted without sacrifice of the vidian or palatine nerves.

Results

Successful en bloc nasopharyngectomy combined with a nerve‐sparing transpterygoid approach was achieved in all specimens with successful preservation of the palatine and vidian nerves. The approach provided exposure of foramen lacerum, the petrous carotid, foramen spinosum, and foramen ovale as well as all segments of the cartilaginous Eustachian tube, Meckel's cave and the parapharyngeal carotid. There was no inadvertent exposure or injury of the internal carotid artery.

Conclusion

Endoscopic nasopharyngectomy combined with a nerve‐sparing transpterygoid approach allows for en bloc resection of the cartilaginous Eustachian tube and nasopharyngeal contents with broad skull base exposure and preservation of the internal carotid artery, vidian and palatine nerves.

Level of Evidence

VI Laryngoscope, 130:2343–2348, 2020
The effect of duration metrics on consumer satisfaction
Authors: Dagogo‐Jack Sokiente W. , Beck Joshua T. , Kaju Alex
Published: December 2019

Consumers increasingly feel that time is scarce. To guide time expectations, many marketers have begun communicating duration metrics—information about how long most consumers typically spend on a given activity. Despite the rising prevalence of duration metrics, little is known about how they shape consumption experiences. Five experiments and an analysis of digital engagement data from articles on a popular online publishing platform show that longer (vs. shorter) duration metrics enhance satisfaction and word‐of‐mouth after an activity is completed. Subjective time perceptions underlie these effects, such that longer duration metrics make consumers feel like they have spent more time on a given activity, and consumers infer their ex‐post satisfaction from the amount of time they feel they have invested. Thus, this research provides insight into how duration metrics operate and challenges the intuition that consumers prefer activities that demand less of their time.
Glial Cell Line–Derived Neurotrophic Factor Receptor Rearranged During Transfection Agonist Supports Dopamine Neurons In Vitro and Enhances Dopamine Release In Vivo
Authors: Mahato Arun Kumar , Kopra Jaakko , Renko Juho‐Matti , Visnapuu Tanel , Korhonen Ilari , Pulkkinen Nita , Bespalov Maxim M. , Domanskyi Andrii , Ronken Eric , Piepponen T. Petteri , Voutilainen Merja H. , Tuominen Raimo K. , Karelson Mati , Sidorova Yulia A. , Saarma Mart
Published: December 2019

Background

Motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) are caused by degeneration and progressive loss of nigrostriatal dopamine neurons. Currently, no cure for this disease is available. Existing drugs alleviate PD symptoms but fail to halt neurodegeneration. Glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is able to protect and repair dopamine neurons in vitro and in animal models of PD, but the clinical use of GDNF is complicated by its pharmacokinetic properties. The present study aimed to evaluate the neuronal effects of a blood‐brain‐barrier penetrating small molecule GDNF receptor Rearranged in Transfection agonist, BT13, in the dopamine system.

Methods

We characterized the ability of BT13 to activate RET in immortalized cells, to support the survival of cultured dopamine neurons, to protect cultured dopamine neurons against neurotoxin‐induced cell death, to activate intracellular signaling pathways both in vitro and in vivo, and to regulate dopamine release in the mouse striatum as well as BT13's distribution in the brain.

Results

BT13 potently activates RET and downstream signaling cascades such as Extracellular Signal Regulated Kinase and AKT in immortalized cells. It supports the survival of cultured dopamine neurons from wild‐type but not from RET‐knockout mice. BT13 protects cultured dopamine neurons from 6‐Hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA) and 1‐methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium (MPP+)–induced cell death only if they express RET. In addition, BT13 is absorbed in the brain, activates intracellular signaling cascades in dopamine neurons both in vitro and in vivo, and also stimulates the release of dopamine in the mouse striatum.

Conclusion

The GDNF receptor RET agonist BT13 demonstrates the potential for further development of novel disease‐modifying treatments against PD. © 2019 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
A comprehensive approach for correcting voxel‐wise b‐value errors in diffusion MRI
Authors: Lee Yoojin , Kettinger Adam O. , Wilm Bertram Jakob , Deichmann Ralf , Weiskopf Nikolaus , Lambert Christian , Pruessmann Klaas Paul , Nagy Zoltan
Published: December 2019

Purpose

In diffusion MRI, the actual b‐value played out on the scanner may deviate from the nominal value due to magnetic field imperfections. A simple image‐based correction method for this problem is presented.

Methods

The apparent diffusion constant (ADC) of a water phantom was measured voxel‐wise along 64 diffusion directions at b = 1000 s/mm2. The true diffusion constant of water was estimated, considering the phantom temperature. A voxel‐wise correction factor, providing an effective b‐value including any magnetic field deviations, was determined for each diffusion direction by relating the measured ADC to the true diffusion constant. To test the method, the measured b‐value map was used to calculate the corrected voxel‐wise ADC for additionally acquired diffusion data sets on the same water phantom and data sets acquired on a small water phantom at three different positions. Diffusion tensor was estimated by applying the measured b‐value map to phantom and in vivo data sets.

Results

The b‐value‐corrected ADC maps of the phantom showed the expected spatial uniformity as well as a marked improvement in consistency across diffusion directions. The b‐value correction for the brain data resulted in a 5.8% and 5.5% decrease in mean diffusivity and angular differences of the primary diffusion direction of 2.71° and 0.73° inside gray and white matter, respectively.

Conclusion

The actual b‐value deviates significantly from its nominal setting, leading to a spatially variable error in the common diffusion outcome measures. The suggested method measures and corrects these artifacts.
Accelerated spin‐echo functional MRI using multisection excitation by simultaneous spin‐echo interleaving (MESSI) with complex‐encoded generalized slice dithered enhanced resolution (cgSlider) simultaneous multislice echo‐planar imaging
Authors: Han SoHyun , Liao Congyu , Manhard Mary Kate , Park Daniel Joseph , Bilgic Berkin , Fair Merlin J. , Wang Fuyixue , Blazejewska Anna I. , Grissom William A. , Polimeni Jonathan R. , Setsompop Kawin
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Spin‐echo functional MRI (SE‐fMRI) has the potential to improve spatial specificity when compared with gradient‐echo fMRI. However, high spatiotemporal resolution SE‐fMRI with large slice‐coverage is challenging as SE‐fMRI requires a long echo time to generate blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) contrast, leading to long repetition times. The aim of this work is to develop an acquisition method that enhances the slice‐coverage of SE‐fMRI at high spatiotemporal resolution.

Theory and Methods

An acquisition scheme was developed entitled multisection excitation by simultaneous spin‐echo interleaving (MESSI) with complex‐encoded generalized slice dithered enhanced resolution (cgSlider). MESSI uses the dead‐time during the long echo time by interleaving the excitation and readout of 2 slices to enable 2× slice‐acceleration, while cgSlider uses the stable temporal background phase in SE‐fMRI to encode/decode 2 adjacent slices simultaneously with a “phase‐constrained” reconstruction method. The proposed cgSlider‐MESSI was also combined with simultaneous multislice (SMS) to achieve further slice‐acceleration. This combined approach was used to achieve 1.5‐mm isotropic whole‐brain SE‐fMRI with a temporal resolution of 1.5 s and was evaluated using sensory stimulation and breath‐hold tasks at 3T.

Results

Compared with conventional SE‐SMS, cgSlider‐MESSI‐SMS provides 4‐fold increase in slice‐coverage for the same repetition time, with comparable temporal signal‐to‐noise ratio. Corresponding fMRI activation from cgSlider‐MESSI‐SMS for both fMRI tasks were consistent with those from conventional SE‐SMS. Overall, cgSlider‐MESSI‐SMS achieved a 32× encoding‐acceleration by combining Rinplane × MB × cgSlider × MESSI = 4 × 2 × 2 × 2.

Conclusion

High‐quality, high‐resolution whole‐brain SE‐fMRI was acquired at a short repetition time using cgSlider‐MESSI‐SMS. This method should be beneficial for high spatiotemporal resolution SE‐fMRI studies requiring whole‐brain coverage.
Modeling cyclic shearing of sands in the semifluidized state
Authors: Barrero Andres R. , Taiebat Mahdi , Dafalias Yannis F.
Published: December 2019

Liquefaction is associated with the loss of mean effective stress and increase of the pore water pressure in saturated granular materials due to their contractive tendency under cyclic shear loading. The loss of mean effective stress is linked to loss of grain contacts, bringing the granular material to a “semifluidized state” and leading to development and accumulation of large cyclic shear strains. Constitutive modeling of the cyclic stress‐strain response in earthquake‐induced liquefaction and post‐liquefaction is complex and yet very important for stress‐deformation and performance‐based analysis of sand deposits. A new state internal variable named strain liquefaction factor is introduced that evolves at low mean effective stresses, and its constitutive role is to reduce the plastic shear stiffness and dilatancy while maintaining the same plastic volumetric strain rate in the semifluidized state. This new constitutive ingredient is added to an existing critical state compatible, bounding surface plasticity reference model, that is well established for constitutive modeling of cyclic response of sands in the pre‐liquefaction state. The roles of the key components of the proposed formulation are examined in a series of sensitivity analyses. Their combined effects in improving the performance of the reference model are examined by simulating undrained cyclic simple shear tests on Ottawa sand, with focus on reproducing the increasing shear strain amplitude as well as its saturation in the post‐liquefaction response.
Combining deep learning and 3D contrast source inversion in MR‐based electrical properties tomography
Authors: Leijsen Reijer , van den Berg Cornelis , Webb Andrew , Remis Rob , Mandija Stefano
Published: December 2019

Magnetic resonance electrical properties tomography (MR‐EPT) is a technique used to estimate the conductivity and permittivity of tissues from MR measurements of the transmit magnetic field. Different reconstruction methods are available; however, all these methods present several limitations, which hamper the clinical applicability. Standard Helmholtz‐based MR‐EPT methods are severely affected by noise. Iterative reconstruction methods such as contrast source inversion electrical properties tomography (CSI‐EPT) are typically time‐consuming and are dependent on their initialization. Deep learning (DL) based methods require a large amount of training data before sufficient generalization can be achieved. Here, we investigate the benefits achievable using a hybrid approach, that is, using MR‐EPT or DL‐EPT as initialization guesses for standard 3D CSI‐EPT. Using realistic electromagnetic simulations at 3 and 7 T, the accuracy and precision of hybrid CSI reconstructions are compared with those of standard 3D CSI‐EPT reconstructions. Our results indicate that a hybrid method consisting of an initial DL‐EPT reconstruction followed by a 3D CSI‐EPT reconstruction would be beneficial. DL‐EPT combined with standard 3D CSI‐EPT exploits the power of data‐driven DL‐based EPT reconstructions, while the subsequent CSI‐EPT facilitates a better generalization by providing data consistency.
Food safety knowledge and hygienic‐sanitary control: A needed company for public well‐being
Authors: Kwol Victoria S. , Avci Turgay , Eluwole Kayode K. , Dalhatu Angela
Published: December 2019

Food handlers are essential in the fight for the prevention of foodborne disease outbreaks as they are critical in ensuring the delivery of safe and healthy food to the consumers. The current study build on knowledge, attitude, and practice model (KAP) to investigate the impact of food handlers' knowledge and attitude on the hygienic‐sanitary conditions of food delivered to the consumers in Nigerian hospitality sector. Using data collected from food handlers in restaurants, hotels and hospitals in Jos metropolis of Nigeria, the study revealed that handlers applied food safety measures to the level of their knowledge. Further investigation revealed that KAP model works effectively in the case of food handlers in Jos. We conclude with recommendations for the industry and education institutes where handlers are trained.
A novel intumescent flame retardant imparts high flame retardancy to epoxy resin
Authors: Wang Jie , Guo Yu , Zhao ShunPing , Huang Rong‐Yi , Kong Xue‐Jun
Published: December 2019

Intumescent flame retardant (IFR) has received the considerable attention ascribed to the inherent advantages including non‐halogen, low toxicity, low smoke release and environmentally friendly. In this work, a novel charring agent poly (piperazine phenylaminophosphamide) named as PPTA was successfully synthesized and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Then, a series of flame‐retardant EP samples were prepared by blending with ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and PPTA. Combustion tests include oxygen Index (LOI), vertical Burning Test (UL‐94) and cone calorimeter testing，these test results showed that PPTA greatly enhances the flame retardancy of EP/APP. According to detailed results, EP containing 10 wt% APP had a LOI value of 30.2%，but had no enhancement on UL‐94 rating. However, after both 7.5 wt% APP and 2.5 wt% PPTA were added, EP‐7 passed UL‐94 V‐0 rating with a LOI value of 33.0%. Moreover, the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and peak of smoke product rate (PSPR) of EP‐7 were greatly decreased. Meanwhile, the flame‐retardant mechanism of EP‐7 was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis/infrared spectrometry (TG‐IR) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The corresponding results presented PPTA significantly increased the density of char layer, resulting in the good flame retardancy.
Fabrication of durable superhydrophobic nanofibrous filters for oil‐water separation using three novel modified nanoparticles (ZnO‐NSPO, AlOO‐NSPO, and TiO2‐NSPO)
Authors: Rostami Ali , Pirsaheb Meghdad , Moradi Golshan , Derakhshan Ali Ashraf
Published: December 2019

Three reusable and durable superhydrophobic nanofibrous filters were prepared by dip coating the nanofibrous fabric in the three different dispersed solutions of the newly modified nanoparticles (ZnO‐NSPO, AlOO‐NSPO, and titanium dioxide [TiO2]‐NSPO). The contact angle results proved that the TiO2‐NSPO coated nanofibrous polyacrylonitrile (PAN) filter was hydrophobic with the water contact angle (WCA) of 141° while the ZnO‐NSPO and AlOO‐NSPO coated nanofibrous PAN filters were superhydrophobic with the WCA of 168° and 152°, respectively. The as‐prepared filters can be utilized as an effective martial for oil‐water separation with separation efficiency of over 98%.
Inpatient Rehabilitation Delirium Screening: Impact on Acute Care Transfers and Functional Outcomes
Authors: Bushi Sharon , Barrett A. M. , Oh‐Park Mooyeon
Published: December 2019

Background

Delirium is well studied in the acute care setting, but there is limited understanding of its impact in the postacute care setting, particularly in the inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF).

Objective

To investigate the prevalence and related outcomes of delirium in the IRF setting, particularly patients' transfers to acute care hospitals.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

A freestanding IRF.

Participants

Patients discharged from an IRF between January 2016 and December 2016 (12 months).

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

Transfer to acute care hospitals, motor and cognitive Functional Independence Measures (FIM), length of stay, discharge disposition.

Results

A total of 1567 patients (53.9% female, mean age 72.9 ± 13.9) were included in the analysis. Positive scores were found among 142 (9.1%) patients on a 3‐Minute Diagnostic Interview for Confusion Assessment Method (3D‐CAM), indicating delirium on admission. Fifty‐nine (3.8%) were unscorable on 3D‐CAM. Twice as many delirium patients were transferred to acute care hospitals compared to non‐delirium patients (22.5% vs. 10.8%, P < .001). Multivariate logistic regression showed that, for patients with 3D‐CAM positive scores, there was an increased risk of transfers to acute care hospitals at an odds ratio of 1.61 (1.03‐2.53, P = .04) after adjusting for age, gender, neurological diagnosis, and motor FIM score. The delirium group also showed lower gains in motor function, increased lengths of stay, and reduced discharges to home when compared to the non‐delirium group (P < .001).

Conclusions

This study finds that delirium on admission to an IRF is associated with worsened outcomes related to function, length of stay, discharge status, and transfer to acute care hospitals. Positive delirium screening is an independent predictor for transfer to acute care hospitals from an IRF. Early identification of delirium is recommended in order to mitigate preventable transfers.
Digitally Networked Participation and Lifestyle Politics as New Modes of Political Participation
Authors: Theocharis Yannis , de Moor Joost , van Deth Jan W.
Published: December 2019

Political participation has seen substantial changes in terms of both its structure and its scope. One of the most prominent venues of citizen engagement today is participation that relies on online means. Several approaches to online participation have attempted to understand its nature as a continuation of offline acts into the online realm, or as an independent form. In this article, we determine the place of online participation in the repertoire of political participation with greater precision. We ask whether, in particular, digitally networked participation (DNP) is an expansion of lifestyle politics, or whether there are empirical grounds to classify it as a new, independent mode of participation. We study a large variety of participatory activities using data from an online survey conducted among 2,114 politically active individuals in Belgium in 2017. We use an innovative measurement approach that combines closed‐ with open‐ended questions, which allows us to explore new forms of participation that have previously not been considered or measured. Our results show that DNP is a core part of today's activists' repertoire and a distinct mode of political participation that is clearly attractive to younger, critical citizens.
Label‐Free Quantitative Proteomics versus Antibody‐Based Assays to Measure Neutrophil‐Derived Enzymes in Saliva
Authors: Silbereisen Angelika , Alassiri Saeed , Bao Kai , Grossmann Jonas , Nanni Paolo , Fernandez Claudia , Tervahartiala Taina , Nascimento Gustavo G. , Belibasakis Georgios N. , Heikkinen Anna‐Maria , Lopez Rodrigo , Sorsa Timo , Bostanci Nagihan
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This study aims to validate label‐free quantitative proteomics (LFQ) against antibody‐based methods for quantifying established periodontal disease biomarkers in saliva.

Experimental Design

In an experimental gingivitis model, healthy volunteers (n = 10) provide saliva at baseline (d0), during the induction (d7, d14, d21) and resolution (d35) of gingival inflammation (total n = 50). Biomarker levels are analyzed by LFQ and time‐resolved immunofluorometric assay (IFMA) or enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Molecular matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐8 forms are assessed by Western blot (WB) analysis.

Results

LFQ detects significantly (p < 0.05) elevated MMP‐8 (d21vsd7, d35vsd7) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP)‐1 (d35vsd7). Latent MMP‐8 (70–80 kDa) is present (d0–d35), but not active MMP‐8 (50–60 kDa). LFQ and immunoassay data significantly correlate for MMP‐8 (r = 0.36), myeloperoxidase (r = 0.39), polymorphonuclear leukocyte elastase (r = 0.33), and TIMP‐1 (r = −0.24).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

LFQ can quantify enzyme levels in saliva, however lacks the ability to measure enzymatic activity. WB analysis reveals that MMP‐8 may not be activated during induction of gingival inflammation. Significant but weak correlations between IFMA or ELISA and LFQ suggest a limited capacity of available antibodies to reliably quantify salivary biomarkers for periodontal diseases. Novel “anti‐peptide” antibodies designed by newer targeted mass spectrometry‐based approaches can help to overcome these drawbacks.
Design and structure of two new protein cages illustrate successes and ongoing challenges in protein engineering
Authors: Cannon Kevin A. , Park Rachel U. , Boyken Scott E. , Nattermann Una , Yi Sue , Baker David , King Neil P. , Yeates Todd O.
Published: December 2019

In recent years, new protein engineering methods have produced more than a dozen symmetric, self‐assembling protein cages whose structures have been validated to match their design models with near‐atomic accuracy. However, many protein cage designs that are tested in the lab do not form the desired assembly, and improving the success rate of design has been a point of recent emphasis. Here we present two protein structures solved by X‐ray crystallography of designed protein oligomers that form two‐component cages with tetrahedral symmetry. To improve on the past tendency toward poorly soluble protein, we used a computational protocol that favors the formation of hydrogen‐bonding networks over exclusively hydrophobic interactions to stabilize the designed protein–protein interfaces. Preliminary characterization showed highly soluble expression, and solution studies indicated successful cage formation by both designed proteins. For one of the designs, a crystal structure confirmed at high resolution that the intended tetrahedral cage was formed, though several flipped amino acid side chain rotamers resulted in an interface that deviates from the precise hydrogen‐bonding pattern that was intended. A structure of the other designed cage showed that, under the conditions where crystals were obtained, a noncage structure was formed wherein a porous 3D protein network in space group I213 is generated by an off‐target twofold homomeric interface. These results illustrate some of the ongoing challenges of developing computational methods for polar interface design, and add two potentially valuable new entries to the growing list of engineered protein materials for downstream applications.
Crystal structure of a Vip3B family insecticidal protein reveals a new fold and a unique tetrameric assembly
Authors: Zheng Meiying , Evdokimov Artem G. , Moshiri Farhad , Lowder Casey , Haas Jeff
Published: December 2019

Vegetatively expressed insecticidal proteins (VIPs) produced byBacillus thuringiensisfall into several classes of which the third, VIP3, is known for their activity against several key Lepidopteran pests of commercial broad acre crops and because their mode of action does not overlap with that of crystalline insecticidal proteins. The details of the VIP3 structure and mode of action have remained obscure for the quarter century that has passed since their discovery. In the present article, we report the first crystal structure of a full‐length VIP3 protein. Crystallization of this target required multiple rounds of construct optimization and screening—over 200 individual sequences were expressed and tested. This protein adopts a novel global fold that combines domains with hitherto unreported topology and containing elements seemingly borrowed from carbohydrate‐binding domains, lectins, or from other insecticidal proteins.
Indian Morinda species: A review
Authors: Singh Bharat , Sharma Ram A.
Published: December 2019

Morinda is a largest genus of Rubiaceae family, and its 11 species are found in India. In India, plant species are known by several common names as great morinda, Indian mulberry, noni, beach mulberry and cheese fruit. Various Morinda products (capsules, tablets, skin products and fruit juices) are available in the market, used by people for treatment of several health complaints. A diversity of phytochemicals including iridoids, flavonoids, flavonoid glycosides, anthraquinones, coumarins, lignanas, noniosides, phenolics and triterpenoids have been reported from Morinda species. Morinda species are used in the treatment of inflammation, cancer, diabetes, psyquiatric disorders, and bacterial and viral infections. The noni fruit juice (Morinda citrifolia) and its products are used clinically in the treatment of cancer, hypertension and cervical spondylosis affecting patients. M. citrifolia fuit juice, with different doses, is used in the maintaining blood pressure and reducing of superoxides, HDL and LDL levels. Similarly, oligosaccharide capsules and tablets of root extract of M. officinalis are recommended as medicine for the treatment of kidney problems and sexual dysfunctions of patients. The toxicological studies revealed that higher doses of fruit juice (4,000 or 5,000 mg/kg) of M. citrifolia for 2 or more months cause toxic effects on liver and kidneys. M. officinalis root extracts (ethanolic and aqueous) are found fully safe during treatment of diseases. A large number of reviews are available on M. citrifolia but very few studies are conducted on other Indian Morinda species. This review reports the comprehensive knowledge on state‐wise distribution, botany, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, clinical applications and toxicological evaluations of 11 species of Morinda found in India.
Investigation of Inclusion Formation in Light‐Weight Fe–Mn–Al Steels using Automated Scanning Electron Microscope Equipped with Energy‐Dispersive X‐Ray Spectroscopy
Authors: Alba Michelia , Nabeel Muhammad , Dogan Neslihan
Published: December 2019

Herein, the effect of Mn content on the characteristics and the formation of inclusions in light‐weight Fe–Mn–Al steels is investigated. Three laboratory‐produced steels, containing different manganese contents (2%, 5%, and 20%) are investigated. 2D and 3D inclusion characterization methods are used to establish inclusion classification rules for oxide, sulfide, and nitride inclusions using an automated scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) (ASPEX system). The observed inclusions are classified into Al2O3(pure), Al2O3–MnS, AlN(pure), AlN–MnS, AlON–MnS, AlON, and MnS. The results show that an increased Mn content of steel increases the number of inclusions, especially Al2O3–MnS and AlN–MnS inclusions. In the case of Al2O3–MnS inclusions, Al2O3 inclusions serve as the site for precipitation of MnS. Thermodynamic calculations suggest that the AlN‐containing inclusions formed during cooling and solidification of steels. Moreover, the formation of AlN–MnS inclusions can take place by the nucleation of MnS on AlN inclusions and vice versa.