bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opportunities for motor stimulation in the home environment of children
Authors: Silva Walan Robert da , Lisboa Tailine , Ferrari Elisa Pinheiro , Freitas Kamyla Thais Dias de , Cardoso Fernando Luiz
Published: April 2017

Introduction: The environment in which the child is inserted and motor opportunities offered to this is essential for a good motor development Objective: To analyze the relationship between the motor stimulation opportunities in the family environment and children's motor development of both sex. Method: were evaluated 72 children, 33 boys and 39 girls with age of 38 to 42 months. The evaluation was conducted by Affordances in the Home Environment for Motor Development (AHEMD) and the Test of Gross Motor Development-2 (TGMD-2). Were used the tests Chi-square, Fisher exact test, t test for independent samples, Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression. Results: In general, the households have low opportunities for motor stimulation, and for households with boys the score is higher. The girls performed better in locomotor skills, while boys had higher scores on object control skills. It found a significant correlation to motricity materials and thick materials motor for boys and variety of stimulation, fine motor materials, motricity materials and motor stimulation for girls. For the boys the motor performance is explained by the available variables of fine and gross motor skills and for the girls by materials of motor stimulation, stimulation variety and materials of fine and gross motor skills. Conclusion: On the presented results we can conclude that the home environment is directly related to the motor development of girls and boys.
Prevalence of postural deviations in the spine in schoolchildren: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Kasten Ana Paula , Rosa Bruna Nichele da , Schmit Emanuelle Francine Detogni , Noll Matias , Candotti Claudia Tarragô
Published: April 2017

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of spine postural deviations in Brazilian schoolchildren. Method: Searches were conducted in databases EMBASE, LILACS, PubMed, SCOPUS, SciELO, Science Direct, and Web of Science, as well as manual searches to identify studies that evaluated the prevalence of spine postural deviations in Brazilian schoolchildren. Two independent reviewers realized the study selection, evaluated the methodological quality and the risk of bias and extracted data. The homogeneity between the studies was evaluated and the quality of evidence level using the GRADE system. Results: 29 studies were included, of which extracted the frequency of positive events to changes in cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, as well as the frequency of scoliosis between schoolchildren. Even performing the meta-analysis separated by subgroups according to the spine region, the heterogeneity level it was up to 90%, it is not possible to perform the meta-analysis to estimate the prevalence of spine postural deviations in Brazilian schoolchildren. Conclusion: There is low strength of evidence to establish a consensus about the values of the prevalence of spine postural deviations in Brazilian schoolchildren.
Microbial quality and shelf life prediction of vacuum-packaged ready to eat beef rounds containing gum arabic
Authors: K. Mwove Johnson , M. Mahungu Symon , A. Gogo Lilian , N. Chikamai Ben , Omwamba Mary
Published: April 2017

Research has shown that gum arabic from Acacia Senegal var. kerensis can be used in beef rounds, at a level of 2.5% of the formulated product weight, as a binder and texture modifier. However, the effect of gum arabic addition on the microbial quality and shelf life of the resulting meat product has not yet been reported. Thus, the objective of this work was to study the microbial quality of beef rounds containing 2.5% gum arabic and to study shelf life based on the growth parameters of Total Viable Counts (TVC) and Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB). Beef round samples were injected at 30% with curing brines containing gum arabic and cooked through boiling. The growth kinetics of LAB and TVC were studied for vacuum packaged sliced beef round samples stored at 7 °C and 15 °C for a period of 21 days. Baranyi and modified Gompertz models were used to fit the LAB and TVC data obtained using DMFit. Results of microbial analysis indicated that coliforms, yeasts and molds as well as pathogenic bacteria; Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus, were below detection limit. In addition, TVC and LAB were found to be 1.87 ± 1.09 and 1.25 ± 0.75 Log10 CFU g−1 , respectively. The results of accuracy analysis showed that both the Baranyi and modified Gompertz models were adequate in representing the bacterial growth in beef rounds injected with curing brines containing gum arabic. The predicted shelf life was found to be between 84.3 – 88.1 h and 158.0 – 173.1 h at 15 °C and 7 °C, respectively. 
A methodological approach for optimum preservation results: The packaging paradigm
Authors: KANAVOURAS ANTONIOS , A. Coutelieris Frank
Published: April 2017

The food preservation hypothesis as impacted by overall packaging applications is considered in this work. The objective was to devise a decision supportive method for the selection of “just-right” packaging materials, techniques and procedures. For that, food preservation was critically approached in order to identify the optimum outcome at experimental and packaging selection decision-making levels. A mathematically supported and proven knowledge classification, and the establishment of a straightforward coherence mode among the principles of the natural systemic phenomena, were used. The ultimate aim of this work was to justifiably surpass a simple description of packaging according to its measurable specifications, and instead, engage its inherent properties into a cyclic 8-steps-process for eventually understanding its potential to support any particular preservation hypothesis in question. The proposed methodology includes primarily, the consideration of the study hypothesis and, in parallel, the conclusive remarks and claims with respect to the experimental factors involved (properties, parameters, relations and conditions). Considering the experimentally controlled set-ups that a researcher has to expose the food system to and the role of packaging in obtaining its preservation potential, our method supports the experimenters in selecting the experimental conditions under which the preservation hypothesis can be disclaimed and furthermore, it could indicate the way to reduce experimentation research waste.
Large‐volume lateral magma transport from the Mull volcano: An insight to magma chamber processes
Authors: Ishizuka Osamu , Taylor Rex N. , Geshi Nobuo , Mochizuki Nobutatsu
Published: April 2017

Long‐distance lateral magma transport within the crust has been inferred for various magmatic systems including oceanic island volcanoes, mid‐oceanic ridges, and large igneous provinces. However, studying the physical and chemical properties of active fissure systems is difficult. Hence, this study investigates the movement of magma away from the Mull volcano in the North Atlantic Igneous Province, where erosion has exposed its upper crustal dike networks. Magmatic lineations within dikes indicate that the magma flow in the Mull dike suite changed from near vertical to horizontal within 30 km of the volcanic center. This implies that distal dikes were fed by lateral magma transport from Mull. Geochemical characteristics indicate that many <50 km long dikes have deep crustal signatures, reflecting storage and assimilation in Lewisian basement. Following crystallization and assimilation in the lower crust, magma fed an upper crustal reservoir, where further fractionation and incorporation of Moinian rocks generated felsic compositions. Distal dikes are andesitic and reflect events in which large volumes of mafic and felsic magma were combined by mixing between lower and upper crustal reservoirs to generate the 30–80 km3 required to supply the long‐distance dikes. Once propagated, compositions along dikes were not significantly affected by assimilation and crystallization. Supplying the distal dikes with magma would have required a large‐scale evacuation of the crustal reservoirs that acted as a potential trigger for explosive volcanism and the caldera formation recorded in Mull central complex.
Explosive processes during the 2015 eruption of Axial Seamount, as recorded by seafloor hydrophones
Authors: Caplan‐Auerbach J. , Dziak R. P. , Haxel J. , Bohnenstiehl D. R. , Garcia C.
Published: April 2017

Following the installation of the Ocean Observatories Initiative cabled array, the 2015 eruption of Axial Seamount, Juan de Fuca ridge, became the first submarine eruption to be captured in real time by seafloor seismic and acoustic instruments. This eruption also marked the first instance where the entire eruption cycle of a submarine volcano, from the previous eruption in 2011 to the end of the month‐long 2015 event, was monitored continuously using autonomous ocean bottom hydrophones. Impulsive sounds associated with explosive lava‐water interactions are identified within hydrophone records during both eruptions. Explosions within the caldera are acoustically distinguishable from those occurring in association with north rift lava flows erupting in 2015. Acoustic data also record a series of broadband diffuse events, occurring in the waning phase of the eruption, and are interpreted as submarine Hawaiian explosions. This transition from gas‐poor to gas‐rich eruptive activity coincides with an increase in water temperature within the caldera and with a decrease in the rate of deflation. The last recorded diffuse events coincide with the end of the eruption, represented by the onset of inflation. All the observed explosion signals couple strongly into the water column, and only weakly into the solid Earth, demonstrating the importance of hydroacoustic observations as a complement to seismic and geodetic studies of submarine eruptions.
Tip Growth in the MossPhyscomitrella Patens
Authors: Bezanilla Magdalena , Perroud Pierre‐François
Published: April 2017

Albeit restricted to a subset of cell types, polarized cell tip growth is a fundamental development mechanism in the plant kingdom from algae to angiosperms. We are focusing in this chapter on the current understanding of such a growth mechanism in mosses, withPhyscomitrella patensas a model. Spore germination and the first stage of the haploid developmental phase, the protonemata, rely completely on tip growth for their development. Simultaneously to this purely developmental aspect, protonemal tip cells integrate environmental cues (e.g. light, gravity) and respond in a coordinated and polar manner. Different physiological and pharmacological studies have implicated directly and indirectly the actin cytoskeleton as a central component in both aspects of tip growth. With the recent development of the reverse genetic tool kit inP. patens, the role of the actin cytoskeleton in regulating tip growth can now be finely dissected. So far, genetic disruption of four components of the conserved eukaryotic actin cytoskeleton regulation machinery, Arp2/3 complex and its regulatory WAVE complex, profilins and ADF/cofilin confirmed a direct implication of the actin cytoskeleton in polar tip growth, allowing the establishment of a functional model of cell tip elongation inP. patens.
The Ins and Outs of Ovule Development
Authors: Battaglia Raffaella , Colombo Monica , Kater Martin M.
Published: April 2017

In the past few years, ovule development has been widely studied in different plant species, both from a morphological and a more molecular point of view. At early stages of flower development, the placenta becomes specified inside the carpel and ovules develop from this tissue as meristematic protuberances. Shortly after, a complicated genetic network regulates ovule patterning controlling the differentiation of three regions named funiculus, chalaza and nucellus. In the past decade, genes playing important roles during ovule development have been identified, and in a few cases, genetic models that could explain the molecular relationship among these genes have been proposed. Here we focus our attention on the molecular genetic mechanisms that stand at the base of ovule development in the model speciesArabidopsis thalianaand we report an updated description of the molecular networks controlling both sporophytic and gametophytic tissue development in the ovule. Furthermore, we observe that the mechanisms controlling ovule development seem to be evolutionary conserved, even in a distantly related species such as rice.
New Medical Applications of Plant Secondary Metabolites (FromAPRVolume 39)
Authors: Heilmann Jörg
Published: April 2017

In the last years, only a limited number of structurally new plant secondary metabolites have entered the scene to attract high medical interest. In contrast, the development of new techniques in the fields of biochemistry, cell biology and molecular biology, e.g. new assay techniques, which are also applicable in the field of natural products chemistry, allowed the finding of several new insights into the molecular mode of action and the pharmacological characterization of known plant secondary metabolites. Accordingly, the pharmacological or clinical characterization of several known plant‐derived compounds like the taxanes, artemisinin derivatives or boswellic acids was significantly broadened. Furthermore, new and important medical applications or pharmacological mechanisms of known compounds were found like the antiviral activity of betulinic acid derivatives or the inhibition of tubulin polymerization by combretastatin A‐4. Recently, a strong interest has evolved in natural products exhibiting chemopreventive activity. Consequently, the role of several plant polyphenols, like curcumin and xanthohumol, as protective and pharmacologically active, dietary constituents has become an increasingly important area of research. Besides the investigation of single compounds, there is still a growing interest in the application of standardized extracts, complex phytochemical mixtures with a well‐defined content of the bioactive constituents. Therefore, new insights concerning the application of extracts fromGinkgo bilobaandHypericum perforatumare also discussed.
Biosynthesis of Alkaloids and Betalains
Authors: Roberts Margaret F. , Strack Dieter , Wink Michael
Published: April 2017

Alkaloids represent a structurally diverse group of nitrogen‐containing secondary metabolites. Many of them have pronounced pharmacological activities and are therefore important for medicine and biotechnology. Most alkaloids derive from an amino acid as a precursor, such as ornithine, arginine, lysine, phenylalanine, tyrosine or tryptophan. The biosynthetic pathways of the main groups of alkaloids have already been elucidated at the enzyme and gene levels. In a few cases, it was already possible to produce alkaloids (e.g. benzylisoquinoline alkaloids) in transgenic microorganisms which were transformed with the respective genes of alkaloid biosynthesis. Details are given for nicotine and tropane alkaloids, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, benzylisoquinoline alkaloids, monoterpene indole alkaloids, ergot alkaloids, acridone alkaloids, purine alkaloids and taxol. Betalains (the red–violet betacyanins and the yellow betaxanthins) are structurally related to alkaloids (‘chromoalkaloids’) and are typical for plants in the order Caryophyllales. Their biosynthesis and function are discussed in this chapter.
Understanding the Crystal Packing and Organic Thin‐Film Transistor Performance in Isomeric Guest–Host Systems
Authors: Hailey Anna K. , Petty Anthony J. , Washbourne Jennifer , Thorley Karl J. , Parkin Sean R. , Anthony John E. , Loo Yueh‐Lin
Published: April 2017

In order to understand how additives influence the structure and electrical properties of active layers in thin‐film devices, a compositionally identical but structurally different guest–host system based on the syn and anti isomers of triethylsilylethynyl anthradithiophene (TES ADT) is systematically explored. The mobility of organic thin‐film transistors (OTFTs) comprising anti TES ADT drops with the addition of only 0.01% of the syn isomer and is pinned at the mobility of OTFTs having pure syn isomer after the addition of only 10% of the isomer. As the syn isomer fraction increases, intermolecular repulsion increases, resulting in a decrease in the unit‐cell density and concomitant disordering of the charge‐transport pathway. This molecular disorder leads to an increase in charge trapping, causing the mobility of OTFTs to drop with increasing syn‐isomer concentration. Since charge transport is sensitive to even minute fractions of molecular disorder, this work emphasizes the importance of prioritizing structural compatibility when choosing material pairs for guest–host systems.
Tumor Microenvironment‐Triggered Aggregation of Antiphagocytosis 99mTc‐Labeled Fe3O4 Nanoprobes for Enhanced Tumor Imaging In Vivo
Authors: Gao Zhenyu , Hou Yi , Zeng Jianfeng , Chen Lei , Liu Chunyan , Yang Wensheng , Gao Mingyuan
Published: April 2017

A tumor microenvironment responsive nanoprobe is developed for enhanced tumor imaging through in situ crosslinking of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles modified with a responsive peptide sequence in which a tumor‐specific Arg‐Gly‐Asp peptide for tumor targeting and a self‐peptide as a “mark of self” are linked through a disulfide bond. Positioning the self‐peptide at the outmost layer is aimed at delaying the clearance of the nanoparticles from the bloodstream. After the self‐peptide is cleaved by glutathione within tumor microenvironment, the exposed thiol groups react with the remaining maleimide moieties from adjacent particles to crosslink the particles in situ. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that the aggregation substantially improves the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast enhancement performance of Fe3O4 particles. By labeling the responsive particle probe with 99mTc, single‐photon emission computed tomography is enabled not only for verifying the enhanced imaging capacity of the crosslinked Fe3O4 particles, but also for achieving sensitive dual modality imaging of tumors in vivo. The novelty of the current probe lies in the combination of tumor microenvironment‐triggered aggregation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles for boosting the T2 MRI effect, with antiphagocytosis surface coating, active targeting, and dual‐modality imaging, which is never reported before.
Periodically Aligned Dye Molecules Integrated in a Single MOF Microcrystal Exhibit Single‐Mode Linearly Polarized Lasing
Authors: He Huajun , Ma En , Yu Jiancan , Cui Yuanjing , Lin Yuankun , Yang Yu , Chen Xueyuan , Chen Banglin , Qian Guodong
Published: April 2017

Due to the periodically physical/chemical environment and high‐efficient confinement effect of the metal‐organic framework (MOF) only possessing 1D channels, the authors realize periodically and highly aligned dye molecule integration within the MOF hybrid material ZJU‐68⊃DMASM. Such molecule integration can provide an opportunity to directly determine 4‐[p‐(dimethylamino)styryl]‐1‐methylpyridinium (DMASM) molecules in the MOF channels by electron density mapping using X‐ray diffraction data. Furthermore, combining the anisotropic emission property of such molecule integration and the perfect crystal morphology of ZJU‐68 serving as the natural resonant cavity, the authors obtain a single‐mode linearly polarized laser excited by light ranging from visible to near‐infrared.
Synthesis of Aromatic Sulfones from SO2 and Organosilanes Under Metal‐free Conditions
Authors: von Wolff Niklas , Char Joëlle , Frogneux Xavier , Cantat Thibault
Published: April 2017

The conversion of SO2 into arylsulfones under metal‐free conditions was achieved for the first time by reacting SO2 with (hetero)arylsilanes and alkylhalides in the presence of a fluoride source. The mechanism of this transformation was elucidated based on DFT calculations, which highlight the influence of SO2 in promoting C−Si bond cleavage.
The role of cholesterol metabolism and various steroid abnormalities in autism spectrum disorders: A hypothesis paper
Authors: Gillberg Christopher , Fernell Elisabeth , Kočovská Eva , Minnis Helen , Bourgeron Thomas , Thompson Lucy , Allely Clare S.
Published: April 2017

Based on evidence from the relevant research literature, we present a hypothesis that there may be a link between cholesterol, vitamin D, and steroid hormones which subsequently impacts on the development of at least some of the “autisms” [Coleman & Gillberg]. Our hypothesis, driven by the peer reviewed literature, posits that there may be links between cholesterol metabolism, which we will refer to as “steroid metabolism” and findings of steroid abnormalities of various kinds (cortisol, testosterone, estrogens, progesterone, vitamin D) in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Further research investigating these potential links is warranted to further our understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying ASD.Autism Res2017. © 2017 The Authors Autism Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Autism Research.Autism Res2017, 10: 1022–1044. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of Gender on Costly Punishment
Authors: Mieth Laura , Buchner Axel , Bell Raoul
Published: April 2017

Women are often believed to be more cooperative and less egoistic than men. In the present study, we examined whether people punish women for failing to live up to these benevolent gender stereotypes. Participants played a prisoner's dilemma game with female and male partners who either cooperated or defected. Participants were offered a costly punishment option. They could spend money to decrease the payment of their partners. In Experiment 1, participants spent more money to punish the defection of female in comparison to male partners, but this effect of partner gender on punishment was indirect rather than direct: Participants were more likely to cooperate with female partners than with male partners, which gave them more opportunity for moralistic punishment. In Experiments 2 and 3, we examined the effects of the participants' own gender on cooperation and punishment of female and male partners. Female participants cooperated more with female partners than with male partners while male participants treated female and male partners equally. We conclude that the effect of facial gender on punishment are indirect rather than direct. The results also showed that women, in contrast to men, tended to make decisions that can be considered more social and less rational from an economic point of view, consistent with social‐role theory and evolutionary accounts. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of Psychotropic Medications and Visits to Psychiatrists and Psychologists among Individuals with Nonsyndromic Oral Clefts: A Population‐Based Cohort Study
Authors: Pedersen Dorthe Almind , Hageman Ida , Wehby George L. , Christensen Kaare
Published: April 2017

Background

Oral clefts (OCs) are among the most common congenital malformations and can have a large impact on the life of the affected individual. Research findings regarding the psychological and psychosocial consequences of OC are inconclusive.

Methods

Using Danish nationwide registers, we investigated redeemed prescriptions of psychotropic medication during 1996 to 2012 and visits to psychiatrists and psychologists during 1996 to 2011 among individuals born with nonsyndromic OC in Denmark between 1936 and 2009 and a comparison cohort of individuals without OC. This includes 8244 individuals with OC and 82,665 individuals without OC.

Results

The Cox regression analysis revealed 12% (95% confidence interval [CI], 7 to 16%) increased risk of using any psychotropic medication for individuals with OC. When examining by cleft type, higher risks for medication use were observed in individuals with cleft lip and palate (CLP) or cleft palate (CP) only. The largest increased relative risk was found for use of antipsychotics and stimulants for individuals with CP followed by use of antipsychotics for individuals with CLP. We found increased risk of visits to psychiatrists for individuals with CP and no increased risk for visits to psychologists for either group.

Conclusions

This study indicates that a small group of individuals with nonsyndromic OC, in particular those with palatal involvement, have greater risk of using psychotropic medications. However, elevated use was also observed among younger individuals with cleft lip (CL) only. There seems to be only a modest increase in visits to health professionals for psychological reasons. Undiagnosed syndromes (e.g., 22q11 deletion syndrome), may, however, contribute to an overestimation of the associations. Birth Defects Research 109:824–835, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neuroprotective effects of phloretin and its glycosylated derivative on rotenone‐induced toxicity in human SH‐SY5Y neuronal‐like cells
Authors: Barreca Davide , Currò Monica , Bellocco Ersilia , Ficarra Silvana , Laganà Giuseppina , Tellone Ester , Laura Giunta Maria , Visalli Giuseppa , Caccamo Daniela , Galtieri Antonio , Ientile Riccardo
Published: April 2017

Phloretin and phlorizin are the two strong natural antioxidants whose biological and pharmacological applications are rapidly growing in different human pathological conditions. The neuroprotective activity of the two flavonoids has been analyzed on cell culture of neuroblastoma cells. The neuroprotective activity of the two flavonoids has been analyzed on cell culture of neuroblastoma cells and evaluated by testing cell vitality, mitochondrial transmembrane potential and ROS production, antioxidant enzymes detection, activation of caspase 3, DNA damage, protein carbonylation, lipid peroxidation, and superoxide anion scavenging activity. Incubation of cells with rotenone caused cell death and significant increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species, activation of caspase 3, and variation in mitochondrial transmembrane potential. Although, rotenone exposure caused a significant increase of antioxidant enzymes, high levels of lipid peroxidation were also observed. Phloretin or phlorizin, at micromolar concentration, reduced rotenone‐induced cell death by scavenging ability against superoxide anion radical, one of the main effectors of rotenone toxicity at level of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I. Under our experimental conditions, a reduction of the intracellular ROS levels with consequent normalization of the aforementioned antioxidant enzymes occurred. Concomitantly, we observed the inhibition of caspase 3 activity and DNA damage. This study shows the promising neuroprotective ability of the two dihydrochalcones able to protect human differentiated neuroblastoma cells (commonly used as model of Parkinson's disease) from injury induced by rotenone, actively scavenging ROS, normalizing mitochondrial transmembrane potential and consequently avoiding energy depletion. © 2017 BioFactors, 43(4):549–557, 2017
Chaotropic heat treatment resolves native‐like aggregation of a heterologously produced hyperthermostable laminarinase
Authors: Westphal Adrie H. , Geerke‐Volmer Astrid A. , van Mierlo Carlo P. M. , van Berkel Willem J. H.
Published: April 2017

Production of hyperthermostable enzymes in mesophilic hosts frequently causes undesired aggregation of these proteins. During production of Pyrococcus furiosus endo‐β‐1,3 glucanase (LamA) in Escherichia coli, soluble and insoluble species form. Here, the authors address the composition of this mixture, including the nature of LamA conformers, and establish a method to increase the yield of native monomer. With gel electrophoresis, size‐exclusion chromatography, light scattering, circular dichroism and enzyme kinetics the authors show that approximately 50 % of heterologously produced LamA is soluble, and that 40 % of this fraction constitutes native‐like oligomers and non‐native monomers. Soluble oligomers display, like native LamA monomer, substrate inhibition, although with poor activity. Treatment of soluble oligomers with 3 M guanidinium hydrochloride at 80 °C yields up to 75 % properly active monomer. Non‐native monomer shows low specific activity without substrate inhibition. Incubating non‐native monomer with 3 M guanidinium hydrochloride at 80 °C causes formation of 25 % native LamA. Also, a large amount of insoluble LamA aggregates can be converted into soluble native monomer by application of this procedure. Thus, chaotropic heat treatment can improve the yield and quality of hyperthermostable proteins that form aberrant species during production in E. coli.
Transcranial direct current stimulation may modulate extinction memory in posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: van‘t Wout Mascha , Longo Sharon M. , Reddy Madhavi K. , Philip Noah S. , Bowker Marguerite T. , Greenberg Benjamin D.
Published: April 2017

Background

Abnormalities in fear extinction and recall are core components of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Data from animal and human studies point to a role of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) in extinction learning and subsequent retention of extinction memories. Given the increasing interest in developing noninvasive brain stimulation protocols for psychopathology treatment, we piloted whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) during extinction learning, vs. during consolidation of extinction learning, might improve extinction recall in veterans with warzone‐related PTSD.

Methods

Twenty‐eight veterans with PTSD completed a 2‐day Pavlovian fear conditioning, extinction, and recall paradigm. Participants received one 10‐min session of 2 mA anodal tDCS over AF3, intended to target the vmPFC. Fourteen received tDCS that started simultaneously with extinction learning onset, and the remaining 14 participants received tDCS during extinction consolidation. Normalized skin conductance reactivity (SCR) was the primary outcome measure. Linear mixed effects models were used to test for effects of tDCS on late extinction and early extinction recall 24 hr later.

Results

During early recall, veterans who received tDCS during extinction consolidation showed slightly lower SCR in response to previously extinguished stimuli as compared to veterans who received tDCS simultaneous with extinction learning (p = .08), generating a medium effect size (Cohen's d = .38). There was no significant effect of tDCS on SCR during late extinction.

Conclusions

These preliminary findings suggest that testing the effects of tDCS during consolidation of fear extinction may have promise as a way of enhancing extinction recall.
A new method allowing long‐term potentiation recordings in hippocampal organotypic slices
Authors: Paci Paula , Gabriele Sylvain , Ris Laurence
Published: April 2017

Background

Hippocampal organotypic slices are used to improve the understanding of synaptic plasticity mechanisms because they allow longer term studies compared to acute slices. However, it is more delicate to keep cultures alive in the recording system outside in vitro conditions. Experiments from the organotypic cultures are common but the handling of slices is rarely described in the literature, even though tissue preservation is crucial. Instruments are sometimes required to extract the slices from the culture inserts but this approach is delicate and can lead to damage, given how strongly the slices are attached to the insert.

Methods

A new configuration is proposed to secure the transfer of slices from the incubator to the recording chamber through an adaptor piece that can be designed for any model of chamber and/or insert. The adaptor is a Plexiglas ring in which a culture insert containing the slice can be easily introduced and stabilized. This system allows slices to be placed in the interface for electrophysiological investigations without having to detach them from the insert. That way, no damage is caused and the recording system can safely hold the slices, maintaining them close to culture conditions.

Results

In addition to the description of the adaptation system, slices were characterized. Their viability was validated and microglial expression was observed. According to the experimental conditions, neuroprotective ramified microgliocytes are present. Dendritic spines studies were also performed to determine neuronal network maturity in culture. Moreover, SKF 83822 hydrobromide and three trains of 100 pulses at 100 Hz with a 10‐min inter‐train interval are suggested to induce long‐term potentiation and to record an increase of fEPSP amplitude and slope.

Conclusion

This paper provides detailed information on the preparation and characterization of hippocampal organotypic slices, a new recording configuration more suitable for cultures, and a long‐term potentiation protocol combining SKF and trains.
Left atrial size and risk of recurrent ischemic stroke in a Chinese population
Authors: Xue Jie , Lin Yuanshao , Huang Wensi , Chen Xiaoli , Li Qian , Cai Zhengyi , Zhang Wanli , Ye Yuansheng , Shao Bei
Published: April 2017

Background

Although a number of studies have reported the role of an increased left atrial (LA) size on stroke, limited data are collected about the relationship between LA enlargement and recurrent ischemic stroke in the Chinese population. Our aim was to assess the association of LA size with the risk of stroke recurrence, particularly with recurrent cardioembolic or cryptogenic stroke in ischemic stroke patients.

Methods

The study recruited 313 consecutive patients with acute first‐ever ischemic stroke. Echocardiographic LA diameter was measured and indexed by height and body surface area separately. The endpoint was recurrent ischemic stroke. Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the association of LA size with total recurrent ischemic stroke and recurrent cardioembolic or cryptogenic stroke while adjusting for baseline demographics characteristics, clinical factors, echocardiographic left ventricular ejection fraction, and medication.

Results

Over a median follow‐up period of 1.63 years, 47 recurrent ischemic strokes (21 were cardioembolic or cryptogenic) occurred. In a multivariate model adjusted for potential confounders, compared with the bottom tertiles of LA diameter indexed to height (LA diameter/H), the top tertile of LA diameter/H was significantly associated with the total recurrent ischemic stroke (adjusted HR 3.610, 95% CI 1.870–6.967, p < .001) and the composite of recurrent cardioembolic or cryptogenic stroke (adjusted HR 5.673, 95% CI 1.780–18.084, p = .003). Results were similar when LA diameter indexed to body surface area (LA diameter/BSA) was involved in the analysis.

Conclusion

LA size is an independent predictor of total recurrent ischemic stroke and the composite of recurrent cardioembolic or cryptogenic stroke.
Frontal assessment battery and frontal atrophy in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Terada Tatsuhiro , Miyata Jun , Obi Tomokazu , Kubota Manabu , Yoshizumi Miho , Yamazaki Kinya , Mizoguchi Kouichi , Murai Toshiya
Published: April 2017

Objectives

To determine the potential utility of the frontal assessment battery (FAB) in assessing cognitive impairments in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), we investigated the association between the FAB score and regional gray matter volume, and ascertained whether the regional brain alterations related to cognitive impairments occur in relatively mild stage of ALS.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐four ALS patients with a Mini‐Mental State Examination score of >23, a normal score on the Self‐Rating Depression Scale, little or no disturbance in speech and handling utensils on the ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS), and normal measures on respiratory tests (respiratory function test and arterial blood gas analysis), and two age‐matched normal control groups (one for FAB assessment and the other for brain morphometry) underwent FAB testing and structural magnetic resonance imaging. We applied voxel‐based morphometry to investigate the relationship between the FAB score and regional brain alteration, and assessed the relationship between the altered regional brain volume and ALSFRS or respiratory tests.

Results

Frontal assessment battery scores were significantly lower in ALS patients than in normal controls. Volume reduction in the right orbitofrontal gyrus in ALS was correlated with a lower FAB score. There was no correlation between the right orbitofrontal gyrus volume and ALSFRS or respiratory tests.

Conclusions

The results suggest that the FAB is an adequate tool for detecting cognitive impairments related to frontal lobe pathology in the relatively mild stage of ALS, independent of physical dysfunctions.
The role of microRNA‐93 regulating angiopoietin2 in the formation of malignant pleural effusion
Authors: Qian Qian , Sun Wenkui , Zhu Wen , Liu Yanan , Ge Ai , Ma Yuan , Zhang Yu , Zeng Xiaoning , Huang Mao
Published: April 2017

The biological roles of miRNAs in the development of malignant pleural effusion (MPE) are unclear. In this study, the miRNA microarray analysis was performed in two different prognosis groups of lung adenocarcinoma patients. Expression profiles of miRNAs in MPEs were identified. With the help of quantification PCR, we confirmed the expression differences of miRNAs and further analyzed their biological functions and relative target genes in vitro. The target gene of miR‐93 was estimated by online database, and also, the protein was tested. The target gene and the binding sites of specific miRNA were estimated by online database. The combining capacity of binding sites was verified by luciferase reporter gene assay, and the target gene protein was tested by western blot. We detected 107 miRNAs with expression differences (n = 10) and confirmed significant expression differences in miR‐93 and miR‐146a in two groups of patients (n = 84). By manipulating miR‐93 expression of human lymphatic endothelial cells (HLEC) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), we discovered that high expression of miR‐93 inhibited migration, proliferation, and angiogenesis. And also, miR‐93 increased not only apoptosis, but also G1 phase cell block. By using luciferase reporter gene assay and western blot, we confirmed that angiopoietin2 (Ang2) was the target of miR‐93. The data showed that miR‐93 has an inhibiting effect on pleural effusion. By targeting Ang2, miR‐93 regulates angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis and plays a role in pathogenetic mechanism of MPE. MiR‐93/Ang2 may shed light on potential new targets in cancer treatment.
Follow 5 steps to create elegant, accessible web design
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: April 2017

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Keeping your athletics department technologically connected isn't as simple as placing handouts online. You can avoid costly fines and sanctions by creating accessible content for your athletics department, while satisfying the needs of your student‐athletes, fans, and others, as well as your own aesthetic interests, by making that accessible design elegant.
Was an instructor fired because he claimed preferential treatment for student‐athletes?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: April 2017

Henry Lyons — a lecturer at the University of Missouri at Kansas City — gave a student‐athlete an F in 2010. When that student‐athlete appealed the grade, Lyons defended his decision to both the program director and the dean. However, the Committee on Academic Affairs allowed the student‐athlete to submit a second midterm paper, and the dean upheld that decision.
Build partnerships, overcome opposition without sacrificing ethics, values, integrity
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: April 2017

When Howard Patterson, Ph.D., was hired in 2001 as The University of Texas at Tyler's first assistant dean of student affairs and athletics director, he faced a challenging but exciting opportunity — building the athletics program from scratch.
Formation of the IGF1R/CAV1/SRC tri‐complex antagonizes TRAIL‐induced apoptosis in gastric cancer cells
Authors: Guo Tianshu , Xu Ling , Che Xiaofang , Zhang Simeng , Li Ce , Wang Jin , Gong Jing , Ma Rui , Fan Yibo , Hou Kezuo , Zhou Huiming , Hu Xuejun , Liu Yunpeng , Qu Xiujuan
Published: April 2017

Lipid rafts provide a biological platform for apoptosis induced by tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL). We previously reported that insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) translocation into lipid rafts helped to explain TRAIL resistance. However, it was not clear whether TRAIL resistance was caused by the interaction of IGF1R with caveolin‐1 (CAV1) and the non‐receptor tyrosine kinase SRC in lipid rafts of gastric cancer cells. Here, we observed high IGF1R expression in TRAIL‐resistant gastric cancer cells, and showed that IGF1R combined with both CAV1 and SRC in a native complex. TRAIL was shown to promote the formation of the IGF1R/CAV1/SRC tri‐complex and the activation of these three molecules. Knockdown of IGF1R or CAV1 or inhibition of SRC activity reduced the formation of this tri‐complex and enhanced TRAIL‐induced apoptosis. Furthermore, the overexpression of microRNA‐194 reversed TRAIL resistance by reducing IGF1R expression. In summary, TRAIL increased formation of the IGF1R/CAV1/SRC tri‐complex and the activation of downstream survival pathways, leading to TRAIL resistance in gastric cancer cells.
Coexistence of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and multiple myeloma, do the roots of these entities originate from the same place?
Authors: Merdin Alparslan , Yıldız Jale , Dal Mehmet Sinan , Kızıl Çakar Merih , Kaya Ali Hakan , Tekgündüz Emre , Altuntaş Fevzi
Published: April 2017

Key Clinical Message

Multiple myeloma is a plasma cell disease, whereas CLL (Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia) affects mature B‐cell lymphocytes. Even though the coexistence of those two conditions is extremely rare, as both cell types differentiate from the same multipotent stem cells, the clinician should evaluate patients carefully not to misdiagnose such a concomitancy.
Steady‐State Measurements of Vanadium Redox‐Flow Batteries to Study Particular Influences of Carbon Felt Properties
Authors: Schweiss Ruediger , Meiser Christian , Goh Fu Wei Thomas
Published: April 2017

Carbon felts based on rayon and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) precursors constitute the most widespread porous electrode material for vanadium redox‐flow batteries. Since the raw materials exhibit rather poor wettability, it has become common practice to apply oxidative surface treatments prior to use in flow batteries. This study investigates the electrode‐specific effects of raw and thermally oxidized (PAN and rayon‐based) carbon felts on their electrochemical behavior at the negative and the positive electrode in all vanadium redox‐flow batteries. By means of steady‐state single cell measurements, it is verified that oxidative surface treatment has opposite effects on negative and positive redox couples and that the beneficial influence on the vanadium redox‐flow battery performance is mainly brought about by substantially improved charge‐transfer kinetics at the negative electrode. Similarly, the type of carbon precursor and the degree of graphitic character have a particular impact on the electrode behavior.
Modern Aspects of the Smiles Rearrangement
Authors: Holden Catherine M. , Greaney Michael F.
Published: April 2017

The Smiles rearrangement is an intramolecular SNAr reaction, breaking a C−X single bond and forming a new C−X or C−C bond though ipso substitution. Its vast scope, in terms of nucleophile, leaving group, and ring‐size of the transition state, make it a powerful tool for arene functionalization, as it can be employed strategically to switch easily‐forged bonds with more difficult connections that would be challenging to realize in the intermolecular mode. The reaction has received significantly renewed attention in recent years, as advances in areas such as arene C−X bond formation and radical generation have been harnessed for new arene syntheses through Smiles chemistry. In addition, new reaction modes have been discovered, such as the Clayden rearrangement of lithiated ureas, creating innovative applications for Smiles rearrangements in asymmetric arylation. This Minireview will discuss advances in these areas in the recent literature, covering both two‐electron, polar Smiles rearrangements along with single‐electron radical transformations.
Highly enantioselective asymmetric direct aldol reaction promoted by aziridine amides constructed on chiral terpene scaffold
Authors: Wujkowska Zuzanna , Strojewska Aleksandra , Pieczonka Adam M. , Leśniak Stanisław , Rachwalski Michał
Published: April 2017

Optically pure, diastereomeric aziridine amides built on the chiral skeletons of camphor, fenchone, and menthone have proven to be highly efficient ligands for enantioselective asymmetric direct aldol reaction in the presence of water and zinc triflate. Desired products were formed in moderate to high chemical yields (up to 95%) and with enantiomeric excess up to 99%. The influence of the stereogenic centers located at the aziridine subunit on the stereochemical course of the reaction is discussed.
Association of salivary RANKL and osteoprotegerin levels with periodontal health
Authors: Ochanji A. A. , Matu N. K. , Mulli T. K.
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study is to determine the association of salivary levels of the bone remodelling regulators (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) with periodontal clinical status. One‐hundred fifty‐eight participants selected from a pool of adult patients via systematic random sampling were included in this descriptive cross‐sectional study carried out at the University of Nairobi Dental Hospital. About 5 ml of unstimulated whole saliva was collected from each participant followed by periodontal clinical examination. Salivary levels of RANKL and OPG were determined using human RANKL and OPG ELISA kits from R&D systems, UK. The mean salivary level of RANKL was 14.65pg/ml (+18.72 SD) with strong association to periodontal disease severity (F = 64.82, p < .001). Mean OPG levels was 139.03 pg/ml (+51.19 SD) with significantly high levels in cases without periodontitis (F = 19.031, p < .001). Consequently, a relative RANKL/OPG ratio was established with a strong positive correlation to disease severity (rs = .759, p < .001). Statistically significant area under curve value of .932 was reported (.1613 cutoff ratio, 95% sensitivity, 6.2% specificity). The levels of RANKL and OPG in saliva and their relative ratio have strong association with the severity of periodontal disease, hence a potential adjunctive diagnostic in evaluating periodontal disease.
Review state of closed captioning revealed by national studies
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: April 2017

How do students use and perceive closed captions? And how are colleges and universities nationwide handling captioning?
Choose experts carefully for lawsuits filed by students with disabilities
Authors: Charmatz Marc
Published: April 2017

Generally, the most important witnesses at trial are the plaintiff and the named defendants, but colleges and universities should not overlook the important role played by experts on both sides in aiding a jury to decide a case. When choosing expert witnesses, be aware of the factors a court will consider when deciding whether the expert is qualified to testify.
Track accessible furniture, focus on student strengths
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: April 2017

Martha Smith is the director of disability access services at Oregon State University, where she oversees a large population of disabled students. We discussed her innovative efforts to prevent loss of accessible furniture, and we found out how her staff members help build up student self‐esteem.
Transition guide provides career framework for disabled students
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: April 2017

The Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services has issued a transition guide for postsecondary education and employment for students and young people with disabilities. OSERS “hopes that the information in this guide will assist families and their students and youths with disabilities in developing and pursuing their goals for adult life.”