bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peritoneal dialysate‐range hypertonic glucose promotes T‐cell IL‐17 production that induces mesothelial inflammation
Authors: Helmke Alexandra , Hüsing Anne M. , Gaedcke Svenja , Brauns Nicolas , Balzer Michael S. , Reinhardt Martin , Hiss Marcus , Shushakova Nelli , de Luca David , Prinz Immo , Haller Hermann , von Vietinghoff Sibylle
Published: September 2020

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) employs hypertonic glucose to remove excess water and uremic waste. Peritoneal membrane failure limits its long‐term use. T‐cell cytokines promote this decline. T‐cell differentiation is critically determined by the microenvironment. We here study how PD‐range hypertonic glucose regulates T‐cell polarization and IL‐17 production.

In the human peritoneal cavity, CD3+ cell numbers increased in PD. Single cell RNA sequencing detected expression of T helper (Th) 17 signature genes RORC and IL23R. In vitro, PD‐range glucose stimulated spontaneous and amplified cytokine‐induced Th17 polarization. Osmotic controls l‐glucose and d‐mannose demonstrate that induction of IL‐17A is a substance‐independent, tonicity dose‐dependent process. PD‐range glucose upregulated glycolysis and increased the proportion of dysfunctional mitochondria. Blockade of reactive‐oxygen species (ROS) prevented IL‐17A induction in response to PD‐range glucose. Peritoneal mesothelium cultured with IL‐17A or IL17F produced pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐6, CCL2, and CX3CL1. In PD patients, peritoneal IL‐17A positively correlated with CX3CL1 concentrations. PD‐range glucose‐stimulated, but neither identically treated Il17a−/−Il17f−/− nor T cells cultured with the ROS scavenger N‐acetylcysteine enhanced mesothelial CX3CL1 expression.

Our data delineate PD‐range hypertonic glucose as a novel inducer of Th17 polarization in a mitochondrial‐ROS‐dependent manner. Modulation of tonicity‐mediated effects of PD solutions may improve membrane survival.
Nickel Selenide Quantum Dot Applications in Electrocatalysis and Sensors
Authors: Tito Ginny S. , Abolanle Adekunle S. , Kuvarega Alex T. , Idris Azeez O. , Mamba Bhekie B. , Feleni Usisipho
Published: September 2020

Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconducting materials with diameters ranging from 2–10 nm. Amongst these QDs, nickel selenide quantum dot (NiSeQD) materials have gained much interest from researchers over the past few years due to their outstanding properties. These include excellent catalytic activity, good electrical conductivity for charge transfer, and excellent thermodynamic stability. NiSeQD material is relatively cheap, less toxic, and can be synthesised easily. Due to the fascinating and remarkable properties of NiSeQD, the material has been applied in various electrochemical fields, including hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and solar cells. This review focuses on the application of NiSeQD and its composites in the various analytical fields in the search for alternative renewable sources of energy. Interestingly, NiSeQD material can be modified with different materials to improve its sensitivity, reactivity, and limit of detection. The effects of modification with other materials such as iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), and graphene (GN) are mentioned. Additionally, the application of NiSeQD in glucose sensing is discussed briefly. In these aforementioned applications, NiSeQD has shown excellent electrocatalytic capability with satisfactory detection limits and good conductivity. Thus, further exploration of it to other fields is essential. This review highlights the importance of NiSeQD in water purification, and no report has been documented in the literature on its application in water purification. Some gaps are still open for the use of NiSeQD material as an electroactive platform for sensing devices in water treatment.
AACRAO president helps to steer course in turbulent times
Authors: Enos Gary A.
Published: September 2020

Twice since the start of 2020, Jack Miner has found himself adjusting to a new role amid a public health crisis. Miner began work as Vice Provost for Enrollment Management at the University of Cincinnati just weeks before the COVID‐19 crisis emerged, then ascended to the president's role at the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers as the association was forced to cancel its April annual meeting.
Protic Ionic Liquids‐Based Crosslinked Polymer Electrolytes: A New Class of Solid Electrolytes for Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Stettner Timo , Lingua Gabriele , Falco Marisa , Balducci Andrea , Gerbaldi Claudio
Published: September 2020

Herein, the preparation of an innovative crosslinked polymer electrolyte (PEO_HPyr) encompassing protic ionic liquids (PILs) displaying high ionic conductivity, wide thermal, and electrochemical stability is reported, thus suitable for use in safe energy storage devices. The first example of an all‐solid‐state electrochemical double layer capacitor (EDLC) containing a PEO_HPyr‐based electrolyte is presented, which shows high performance at ambient temperature and exceptional stability. Furthermore, the first example of a PIL‐based lab‐scale lithium‐metal cell with lithium iron phosphate cathodes is also presented, which provides almost full capacity (i.e., 150 mAh g−1 at C/20) and highly reversible cycling at ambient conditions and different current rates. The excellent results obtained clearly demonstrate that PIL‐based crosslinked polymer electrolytes represent a new and very interesting class of solid electrolytes for energy storage devices.
Recent advances in wearable textile‐based triboelectric generator systems for energy harvesting from human motion
Authors: Yang Bao , Xiong Ying , Ma Kitming , Liu Shirui , Tao Xiaoming
Published: September 2020

Large‐area, flexible, and light‐weight textile‐based triboelectric generator (TTEG) technologies are promising power supplier by harvesting energy from human motions, wind, and water current. Numerous TTEG systems have been demonstrated. However, the challenges in their applications include the low electric output power, failure under wearing conditions, and adverse effects on the wearable performance like comfort and durability. What is the influence of system integration on the output performance of the TTEGs? What kinds of textile‐structures have the most promising performance? How to make an effective TTEG system? In an attempt to answer these important questions, a critical review is presented on the recent advances of wearable TTEG systems in terms of textile structures, selection of materials, working modes, mechanisms of triboelectrification and charge transfer, energy storage, and their integrations. Furthermore, the major approaches or directions for improving the total conversion efficiency and performance of wearable TTEG systems are systematically summarized.

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Synthesis and characterization of activated carbon derived fromTectona grandissawdust via green route
Authors: Singh Jyoti , Mishra Vishal
Published: September 2020

High quality activated carbon was successfully produced fromTectona grandissawdust by chemical activation using potassium chloride and sodium thiosulphate in a ratio of 1:1.5:1. Surface characterization of sawdust and activated carbon showed the presence of several functional groups such as hydroxyl, ketones, phenols, carboxylic acids, aldehydes and aryl halide together with the heterogeneous surface and extensive porous network as depicted by morphological characterization. It was found that the per cent yield by mass ofTectona grandissawdust was 52% (SD±0.41%). The content of fixed carbon (67.3%) and volatile matter (13.7%) inT. grandissawdust signifies the ease with which it can be ignited and oxidized. The x‐ray diffraction analysis of activated carbon prepared fromT. grandissawdust indicated amorphous behavior of activated carbon. In the present work, activated carbon possesses 8.76 pH zero‐point charge, 1270 m2/g BET surface area, 0.673 cm3/g total pore volume and 0.42 g/cm3bulk density.
Heart rate variability as a biomarker for anorexia nervosa: A review
Authors: Peyser Deena , Scolnick Barbara , Hildebrandt Tom , Taylor J. Andrew
Published: September 2020

Objective

Anorexia nervosa (AN) typically begins in early adolescence and other than weight status has few reliable biomarkers. Early diagnosis is a critical prognostic factor, but this can be clinically challenging. Heart rate variability (HRV), the beat‐by‐beat variance in heart rate (HR), may provide a unique assessment for the presence of AN because it has clinical utility as a biomarker of cardiac autonomic control in various populations (e.g., athletes, the aged, those with cardiovascular diseases, etc.). We present a review of the literature examining HRV in those with AN.

Method

Relevant publications were selected from PubMed using the search terms ‘anorexia nervosa AND (HR OR HRV)’. Twenty papers were selected and reviewed.

Results

The majority of studies suggest that those with AN have markedly and consistently elevated HRV compared to controls, even greater than among young athletes. However, no studies have explored HRV as a biomarker for AN.

Discussion

Future studies on HRV should elucidate its role as a diagnostic biomarker for AN as well as its responsiveness with serial measurement to track response rates and predict relapse.
Hydro‐meteorological drivers influencing suspended sediment transport and yield in a semi‐arid mountainous basin
Authors: Millares A. , Moñino A.
Published: September 2020

Understanding erosion and sediment transport dynamics is key for sustainable water resources management. The objective of this research was to assess suspended sediment responses, identifying relationships with hydro‐meteorological drivers, sediment sources and connectivity in a mountainous semi‐arid basin. With this purpose, suspended sediment concentrations of 12 events were measured by automatic sampling and classified based on six descriptors of hydro‐meteorological drivers, their related rating curves and hysteresis loop behaviour, and distribution of precipitation, snowfall and snowmelt. Comparison with sediment transport and yield along the river, previously reported, was also performed. The results allowed us to distinguish up to three types of events with different erosive responses, comparable with other Mediterranean environments and snowmelt‐driven basins. Events classified as type I and II were closely linked to snow processes. Those classified as type III presented higher sediment yield and negligible influence of snow processes. The analysis of rating curves and hysteresis loops confirmed the identified transport responses. Type I and II events, with clockwise behaviour, were related to in‐channel sediment storage. Type III events, with predominantly counter‐clockwise behaviour, were related to hillslope erosion processes of gullying and landslides. The sediment connectivity analysed highlights the role of vegetation cover and land uses, and its sensitivity in high mountainous environments, which fits with the observed sediment transport at the study site. The volume of sediment trapped in the bottomset area of a reservoir downstream was related to type I events (more frequent and of greater magnitude). However, spatial distribution and frequency of type III events are likely to become more relevant under future climate scenarios due to their high sensitivity to hydro‐meteorological drivers. These results highlight the vulnerability of high mountainous areas on erosive dynamics and justify long‐term monitoring as hotspots of future challenge for water resource management. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Organic Flash Cycle By R600a/R601a Mixtures▴
Authors: Huang G. D. , Zhang S. Y. , Ge Z. , Xie Z. Y. , Yuan Z. P. , Xie J. B. , Xu J.
Published: September 2020

Organic flash cycle (OFC) can effectively use low‐ and medium‐temperature heat sources. The non‐isothermal phase change characteristic of R600a/R601a mixtures can improve the thermal match between the cycle and heat sink. In this study, a thermodynamic model of the OFC system was proposed. The OFC system was driven by heat source temperatures of 100–200 °C. R600a/R601a mixtures were selected as the working fluids. The effects of the mole fraction of the mixtures and the heat source temperature on the net power output, cycle efficiency, and second‐law efficiency were investigated. The exergy destruction in the component was also discussed. Results showed that when the heat source temperature was 100–180 °C, the relative increments in the net power outputs of the mixture systems were 0.62–5% compared with that of the R601a system. At 190–200 °C, the R601a system demonstrated the largest net power output. A characteristic temperature (Tct) was also observed. When THS,in ≤ Tct, the net power output was mainly affected by the thermal match between the cycle and the heat sink, flashing process destruction, and low‐pressure throttle valve destruction. When THS,in > Tct, the net power output was mainly affected by the thermal match between the cycle and the heat sources.
Apatite and zircon (U–Th)/He thermochronological evidence for Mesozoic exhumation of the Central Tibetan Mountain Range
Authors: Qian Xinyu , Li Yalin , Dai Jingen , Wang Chengshan , Han Zhongpeng , Zhang Jiawei , Li Han'ao
Published: September 2020

The Central Tibetan Mountain Range (CTMR) exposes the oldest strata in the Qiangtang Terrane and may record the most complete exhumation history prior to and post‐collision of India and Asia. This article presents apatite and zircon (U–Th)/He thermochronology data of granites from the CTMR. Zircon (U–Th)/He single grain ages range from 116 to 191 Ma, while apatite (U–Th)/He single grain ages vary from 54 to 94 Ma. Thermal modelling results based on (U–Th)/He ages of apatite and zircon indicate that episodic rapid exhumations occurred at the Middle‐Late Jurassic and the Late Cretaceous, respectively. The Middle‐Late Jurassic exhumation is consistent with the provenance analysis of Jurassic strata in the South (SQT) and North Qiangtang Terrane (NQT) which suggested they were derived from the CTMR. This stage of rapid exhumation might be attributed to the northward ridge subduction of the Bangong‐Nujiang Ocean. The Late Cretaceous relatively rapid exhumation is compatible with the angular unconformity between the Abushan Formation and the underlying marine strata. This stage of exhumation may be caused by the collision between Lhasa and QT. Our results, combined with the crust shortening and adakitic rocks in the SQT during the Late Cretaceous, provide robust evidence for crustal thickening and early uplift of central Tibetan Plateau prior to the India‐Asia collision. The CTMR experienced very low exhumation since the early Eocene, implying that low‐relief topography had been established at high elevation with internal drainage prior to India‐Asia collision.
Differential effects of integrase strand transfer inhibitors, elvitegravir and raltegravir, on oligodendrocyte maturation: A role for the integrated stress response
Authors: Roth Lindsay M. , Zidane Bassam , Festa Lindsay , Putatunda Raj , Romer Micah , Monnerie Hubert , Jordan‐Sciutto Kelly L. , Grinspan Judith B.
Published: September 2020

Regardless of adherence to combined antiretroviral therapy, white matter and myelin pathologies persist in patients with HIV‐associated neurocognitive disorders, a spectrum of cognitive, motor, and behavioral impairments. We hypothesized that antiretroviral therapy alters the maturation of oligodendrocytes which synthesize myelin. We tested whether specific frontline integrase strand transfer inhibitors would alter oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination. To model the effect of antiretrovirals on oligodendrocytes, we stimulated primary rat oligodendrocyte precursor cells to differentiate into mature oligodendrocytes in vitro in the presence of therapeutically relevant concentrations of elvitegravir or raltegravir and then assessed differentiation with lineage specific markers. To examine the effect of antiretrovirals on myelination, we treated mice with the demyelinating compound cuprizone, for 5 weeks. This was followed by 3 weeks of recovery in absence of cuprizone, during which time some mice received a daily intrajugular injection of elvitegravir. Brains were harvested, sectioned and processed by immunohistochemistry to examine oligodendrocyte maturation and myelination. Elvitegravir inhibited oligodendrocyte differentiation in vitro in a concentration‐dependent manner, while raltegravir had no effect. Following cuprizone demyelination, administration of elvitegravir to adult mice reduced remyelination compared with control animals. Elvitegravir treatment activated the integrated stress response in oligodendrocytes in vitro, an effect which was completely blocked by pretreatment with the integrated stress response inhibitor Trans‐ISRIB, preventing elvitegravir‐mediated inhibition of oligodendrocyte maturation. These studies demonstrate that elvitegravir impairs oligodendrocyte maturation and remyelination and that the integrated stress response mediates this effect and may be a possible therapeutic target.
Sox2‐dependent maintenance of mouse oligodendroglioma involves the Sox2‐mediated downregulation of Cdkn2b, Ebf1, Zfp423, and Hey2
Authors: Barone Cristiana , Buccarelli Mariachiara , Alessandrini Francesco , Pagin Miriam , Rigoldi Laura , Sambruni Irene , Favaro Rebecca , Ottolenghi Sergio , Pallini Roberto , Ricci‐Vitiani Lucia , Malatesta Paolo , Nicolis Silvia K.
Published: September 2020

Cancer stem cells (CSC) are essential for tumorigenesis. The transcription factor Sox2 is overexpressed in brain gliomas, and is essential to maintain CSC. In mouse high‐grade glioma pHGG cells in culture, Sox2 deletion causes cell proliferation arrest and inability to reform tumors after transplantation in vivo; in Sox2‐deleted cells, 134 genes are derepressed. To identify genes mediating Sox2 deletion effects, we overexpressed into pHGG cells nine among the most derepressed genes, and identified four genes, Ebf1, Hey2, Zfp423, and Cdkn2b, that strongly reduced cell proliferation in vitro and brain tumorigenesis in vivo. CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis of each gene, individually or in combination (Ebf1 + Cdkn2b), significantly antagonized the proliferation arrest caused by Sox2 deletion. The same genes also repressed clonogenicity in primary human glioblastoma‐derived CSC‐like lines. These experiments identify a network of critical tumor suppressive Sox2‐targets whose inhibition by Sox2 is involved in glioma CSC maintenance, defining new potential therapeutic targets.
Identifying Quality Gaps in Preventive Care for Outpatients With Cirrhosis Within a Large, Academic Health Care System
Authors: Kardashian Ani , Patel Arpan A. , Aby Elizabeth S. , Cusumano Vivy T. , Soroudi Camille , Winters Adam C. , Wu Eric , Beah Peter , Delshad Sean , Kim Nathan , Yang Liu , May Folasade P.
Published: September 2020

We sought to identify specific gaps in preventive care provided to outpatients with cirrhosis and to determine factors associated with high quality of care (QOC), to guide quality improvement efforts. Outpatients with cirrhosis who received care at a large, academic tertiary health care system in the United States were included. Twelve quality indicators (QIs), including preventive care processes for ascites, esophageal varices, hepatic encephalopathy, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and general cirrhosis care, were measured. QI pass rates were calculated as the proportion of patients eligible for a QI who received that QI during the study period. We performed logistic regression to determine predictors of high QOC (≥ 75% of eligible QIs) and receipt of HCC surveillance. Of the 439 patients, the median age was 63 years, 59% were male, and 19% were Hispanic. The median Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease–Sodium score was 11, 64% were compensated, and 32% had hepatitis C virus. QI pass rates varied by individual QIs, but were overall low. For example, 24% received appropriate HCC surveillance, 32% received an index endoscopy for varices screening, and 21% received secondary prophylaxis for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. In multivariable analyses, Asian race (odds ratio [OR]: 3.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3‐10.2) was associated with higher QOC, and both Asian race (OR: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.2‐9.0) and decompensated status (OR: 2.1, 95% CI: 1.1‐4.2) were associated with receipt of HCC surveillance. A greater number of specialty care visits was not associated with higher QOC. Conclusion: Receipt of outpatient preventive cirrhosis QIs was variable and overall low in a diverse cohort of patients with cirrhosis. Variation in care by race/ethnicity and illness trajectory should prompt further inquiry into identifying modifiable factors to standardize care delivery and to improve QOC.
MicroRNA‐125b‐5p Regulates Hepatocyte Proliferation During the Termination Phase of Liver Regeneration
Authors: Yang Dakai , Dai Zhen , Yang Taihua , Balakrishnan Asha , Yuan Qinggong , Vondran Florian W.R. , Manns Michael P. , Ott Michael , Cantz Tobias , Sharma Amar Deep
Published: September 2020

The ability of the liver to regenerate and restore mass limits the increasing mortality rate due to life‐threatening liver diseases. Successful liver regeneration is accomplished in multiple stages, of which the priming and proliferation phases are well studied. However, the regulatory pathways, specifically microRNA (miRNA)‐mediated posttranscriptional regulation, which prevent uncontrolled proliferation and mediate the termination of liver regeneration, are not well understood. We identified differentially regulated miRNAs during the termination phase after 2/3 partial hepatectomy (PH) in mice, which is a well‐established mouse model of liver regeneration. We further evaluated the function of differentially regulated miRNAs in primary mouse hepatocytes by using mimics and inhibitors and in vivo by using adeno‐associated virus (AAV) serotype 8. A candidate miRNA target was identified by messenger RNA array in silico analyses and validated in primary mouse and human hepatocytes. Using miRNA profiling, we discovered miR‐125b‐5p as a novel regulator of hepatocyte proliferation in the late phase of liver regeneration. AAV‐mediated miR‐125b‐5p delivery in mice enhanced the endogenous regenerative capacity and resulted in improved restoration of liver mass after 2/3 PH. Further, we found that ankyrin repeat and BTB/POZ domain containing protein 1 (Abtb1) is a direct target of miR‐125b‐5p in primary mouse and human hepatocytes and contributes to the pro‐proliferative activity of miR‐125b‐5p by forkhead box G1 (FOXG1) and the cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (p21) pathway. Conclusion: miR‐125b‐5p has an important role in regulating hepatocyte proliferation in the termination phase of liver regeneration and may serve as a potential therapeutic target in various liver diseases that often exhibit deregulated hepatocyte proliferation.
The cream‐skimming effect in China's health care services: A mixed methods study
Authors: Chen Dongjin , Lang Youxing
Published: September 2020

Objective

One of the greatest inequities in China's health care service is that between senior cadres, high‐level bureaucrats, and the general public in terms of hospital access and payment. We aim to demonstrate this inequity and to explore its connection with the regional inequity of different levels of health care facilities.

Methods

In a content analysis of official websites of provincial health bureaus and national top hospitals, we determine whether senior cadres enjoy priority in health services with fewer payments. Then, we employ multiple regression analyses to explore the correlation of the local economy, the local population as well as the regional power and different levels of health care facilities.

Results

The content analysis suggests that senior cadres indeed enjoy priority in health care services. According to the regression results, the local population has a positive correlation with every level of health care facilities except the highest one, which is responsive only to the local power index.

Conclusion

We demonstrate a demand‐side cream‐skimming effect in China's health care service. Senior cadres have taken the ‘cream’, the best services, and the individual inequity between senior cadres and the general public is related to the regional inequity of different‐level health care facilities.
Effect of horizontal pressure gradient on Rayleigh–Bénard convection of a Newtonian nanoliquid in a high porosity medium using a local thermal non‐equilibrium model
Authors: Sakshath T. N. , P Joshi Arundhathi
Published: September 2020

A study of linear and weakly nonlinear stability analyses of Darcy–Brinkman convection in a water–alumina, nanoliquid‐saturated porous layer for stress‐free isothermal boundaries, when the solid and nanoliquid phases are in local thermal nonequilibrium, is conducted. The critical eigenvalue is found using the Galerkin approach. The effect of the pressure gradient, thermal conductivity ratio, interphase heat transfer coefficient, inverse Darcy number, and Brinkman number on the heat transport and onset of convection is examined and represented graphically. The critical values of wavenumber and nanoliquid Rayleigh number are found for different problem parameter values. The effect of increasing the porosity‐modified ratio of thermal conductivity advances the onset of convection and increases the amount of heat transport, whereas the remaining parameters have the opposite impact on the onset of convection and amount of heat transport. The classical results of the local thermal equilibrium case and Darcy–Bénard convection in the presence of pressure gradient are obtained as a limiting case of the present problem.
The safety of agomelatine in standard medical practice in depressed patients: A 26‐week international multicentre cohort study
Authors: Gorwood Philip , Benichou Jacques , Moore Nicholas , Álvarez Martínez Enric , Mertens Joost , Aguglia Eugenio , Figueira Maria‐Luisa , Falkai Peter , Olivier Valérie , Wattez Marine , Picarel‐Blanchot Françoise , de Bodinat Christian
Published: September 2020

Objective

The present observational cohort study documented the safety of agomelatine in current medical practice in out‐patients suffering from major depressive disorder.

Method

The 6‐month evolution of agomelatine‐treated patients was assessed with a focus on safety (emergent adverse events, liver acceptability), severity of depression using the Clinical Global Impression Severity (CGI‐S) score, and functioning measured by the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS).

Results

A total of 8453 depressed patients from 761 centres in 6 countries were analysed (female: 67.7%; mean age: 49.1 ± 14.8 years). Adverse events reported were in accordance with the known safety profile of agomelatine. Cutaneous events were reported in 1.7% of the patients and increased hepatic transaminases values were reported in 0.9 % of the patients. The incidence of events related to suicide/self‐injury was 1.0%. Two completed suicides, not related to the study drug, were reported. CGI‐S total scores and SDS sub‐scores improved and numbers of days lost or underproductive decreased over the treatment period.

Conclusions

In standard medical practice, agomelatine treatment was associated with a low incidence of side effects. No unexpected events were reported. A decrease in the severity of the depressive episode and improved functioning were observed.

Trial registration name

Observational cohort study to evaluate the safety of agomelatine in standard medical practice in depressed patients. A prospective, observational (non‐interventional), international, multicentre cohort study.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN53570733
Foraging Ecology Differentiates Life Stages and Mercury Exposure in Common Terns (Sterna hirundo)
Authors: Bracey Annie M , Etterson Matthew A , Strand Frederick C , Matteson Sumner W , Niemi Gerald J , Cuthbert Francesca J , Hoffman Joel C
Published: September 2020

Some populations of common terns (Sterna hirundo) breeding at inland lakes in North America are declining, including the Laurentian Great Lakes. Terns nesting at inland colonies forage in freshwater during the breeding season and primarily in coastal marine environments during the nonbreeding season. As piscivores, they are susceptible to dietary Hg exposure. To characterize patterns of Hg exposure in this population, we 1) quantified within and among season differences in total mercury (THg) concentrations (μg/g) in blood and feathers at 2 Lake Superior breeding colonies, and 2) documented spatial and temporal variation in exposure by studying adult foraging ecology using geospatial tracking devices and stable isotopes. We used general linear models to assess the relationship between isotopic composition and THg concentrations in bird tissues relative to sex, age, colony location, and season. The THg concentrations were lowest in winter-grown feathers (geometric mean [95% confidence limits]): 1.32 (1.09–1.59) μg/g dw (n = 60), higher at the more industrially influenced colony (chick feathers: 4.95 [4.62–5.37] μg/g dw [n = 20]), and increased with a riverine-based diet. During the breeding season, Hg exposure varied along a gradient from lake to river, with adult females having lower blood THg concentrations than males (females: 0.83 [0.67–1.03]) μg/g ww (n = 7); males: 1.15 (0.92–1.45) μg/g ww (n = 5). Stable isotope values suggested adults obtained 42 ± 12% (n = 12) of their diet from the river during incubation, which was validated with tracking data. During chick-rearing, chicks obtained 68 ± 19% (n = 44) of their diet from the river. Our results indicate colony location, foraging behavior, and season influenced Hg exposure for these Lake Superior colonies and underscores the importance of local contamination with respect to exposure. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2021;17:398–410. © 2020 SETAC

KEY POINTS

Use of stable isotopes and on-bird tracking devices was critical for determining year-round risk of Hg exposure for common terns. Hg exposure was associated with geographic location, shifts in foraging behavior, and habitat use throughout the year. Common terns can be used as ecological monitors of local Hg exposure. Documenting chronic and potentially increasing exposure to contaminants such as Hg is important when assessing cumulative risk.
Dynamic relationship among the bank stability, oil, and gold prices: Evidence from the Islamic banks operating in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries
Authors: Elbadri Marei , Bektaş Eralp
Published: September 2020

This study uses quarterly time series data to investigate the relationship between oil and gold prices, and the financial stability of Islamic banks operating in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries for the period of 2005Q1 to 2018Q1. For this purpose, first it uses Johansen cointegration and VECM methodologies, and then it employs the newly‐developed Bayer–Hanck, Gregory–Hansen, Toda–Yamamato, and DOLS methodologies to test the robustness of the findings. Results reveal a cointegrating relationship and equilibrium‐correcting mechanism between the two commodities prices and the bank stability. Both commodities prices have positive effects on bank stability in the short run. However, oil price has a positive effect in the long run, while gold price has a negative effect in the long run. The causality results confirm unidirectional causality from oil and gold prices to bank stability in the short run, and oil price to bank stability in the long run.
A geographical division clustering algorithm for multiple flying base stations
Authors: Lee Jongyul , Lyu Xiao , Friderikos Vasilis
Published: September 2020

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) can play a significant role as flying base station (FBSs) in assisting terrestrial base stations (BSs) to increase overall network capacity by providing localized transmission to a set of users. In that respect, FBSs can be deployed from a terrestrial macro BS which can act as the depot. In this letter, we propose two flavors of a Geographical Division (GD) clustering algorithm to assign FBSs located at the same terrestrial BS to a set of end users. Numerical investigations demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms the two most widely used and best known clustering algorithms for this specific problem, namely K‐means and Hierarchical clustering algorithms.
Hypercalcemia After Cosmetic Oil Injections: Unraveling Etiology, Pathogenesis, and Severity
Authors: Eldrup Ebbe , Theilade Simone , Lorenzen Mette , Andreassen Christine H , Poulsen Katrine H , Nielsen John E , Hansen Ditte , El Fassi Daniel , Berg Jais O , Bagi Per , Jørgensen Anne , Blomberg Jensen Martin
Published: September 2020

Intramuscular injections of paraffin oil can cause foreign body granuloma formation and hypercalcemia. Macrophages with the ability to produce high levels of 1,25(OH)2D3 may induce the mineral disturbance, but no major series of patients have been published to date. Here, medical history, physical evaluation, biochemical, and urinary analysis for calcium homeostasis were obtained from 88 males, who 6 years previously had injected paraffin or synthol oil into skeletal muscle. Moreover, granuloma tissue from three men was cultured for 48 hours ex vivo to determine 1,25(OH)2D3 production supported by qPCR and immunohistochemistry of vitamin D metabolism and immune cell populations after treatment with 14 different drugs. The 88 men were stratified into men with hypercalcemia (34%), whereas normocalcemic men were separated into men with either normal (42%) or suppressed parathyroid hormone (PTH) (24%). All men had high calcium excretion, and nephrolithiasis was found in 48% of hypercalcemic men, 22% of normocalcemic men with normal PTH, and 47% of normocalcemic men with suppressed PTH. Risk factors for developing hypercalcemia were oil volume injected, injection of heated oil, high serum interleukin-2 receptor levels, and high urine calcium. High 1,25(OH)2D3/25OHD ratio, calcium excretion, and low PTH was associated with nephrolithiasis. The vitamin D activating enzyme CYP27B1 was markedly expressed in granuloma tissue, and 1,25(OH)2D3 was released in concentrations corresponding to 40% to 50% of the production by human kidney specimens. Dexamethasone, ketoconazole, and ciclosporin significantly suppressed granulomatous production of 1,25(OH)2D3. In conclusion, this study shows that injection of large oil volumes alters calcium homeostasis and increases the risk of nephrolithiasis. Hypercalciuria is an early sign of disease, and high granulomatous 1,25(OH)2D3 production is part of the cause. Prospective clinical trials are needed to determine if ciclosporin, ketoconazole, or other drugs can be used as prednisolone-sparing treatment. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Lipoprotein apheresis and PCSK9 inhibitors for severe familial hypercholesterolaemia: Experience from Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Page Michael M , Ekinci Elif I , Burnett John R , Hooper Amanda J , Reid Nicola , Bishop Warrick , Florkowski Chris M , Scott Russell , O'Brien Richard C , Watts Gerald F
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Severe familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) causes premature disability and death due to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and is refractory to standard lipid‐lowering therapies. Lipoprotein apheresis (LA) has long been a standard of care for patients with severe FH, but is invasive, expensive and time‐consuming for patients and their caregivers. Newer drug therapies, including the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors, may reduce the need for LA.

Materials and methods

We audited the records of 16 patients (eight homozygous, eight heterozygous) treated with LA in Australia and New Zealand, 14 of whom subsequently commenced PCSK9 inhibitor therapy. LA was performed by cascade filtration in all centres.

Results

LDL‐cholesterol was acutely lowered by 69 ± 7% in patients with homozygous FH and by 72 ± 9% in those with heterozygous FH, representing time‐averaged reductions of 36 ± 12% and 34 ± 5%, respectively. LA was well‐tolerated, and patients reported comparable quality of life to population and disease‐related norms. After commencement of PCSK9 inhibitors, four of seven patients with homozygous FH had meaningful biochemical responses, with a reduction in the frequency of LA permitted in one patient and complete cessation in another. Four of seven patients with heterozygous FH were able to be managed without LA after commencing PCSK9 inhibitors.

Conclusion

While PCSK9 inhibitors have reduced the need for LA, some patients with severe FH continue to require LA, and will require it for the foreseeable future. However, emerging therapies, including angiopoetin‐like 3 inhibitors, may further reduce the need for LA.
Research on the effect of TiO2 nanotubes coated by gallium nitrate on Staphylococcus aureus‐Escherichia coli biofilm formation
Authors: Dong Junjie , Wang Bing , Xiang Bingquan , Yang Jin , Gong Zhiqiang , Wang Zhihua , Huang Yunchao , Chen Lingqiang
Published: September 2020

Background

In clinical practice, the cases with bacterial infection caused by titanium implants and bacterial biofilm formation on the surface of titanium materials implanted into human body can often be observed. Thus, this study aimed to demonstrate whether the mixed biofilm of Staphylococcus aureus/Escherichia coli can be formed on the surface of titanium material through in vitro experiments and its formation rules.

Methods

The titanium plates were put into the well containing S aureus or/and E coli. Bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation were analyzed by crystal violet, XTT method, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy.

Results

The results of bacterial adhesion in each group at 6‐72 hours showed that the number of bacterial adhesion in each group was increased with the extension of time and reached to the highest level at 72 hours. Moreover, the biofilm structure in the S aureus‐E coli group was significantly more complex than that of the simple S aureus group or E coli group, and the number of bacteria was also significantly increased in the S aureus‐E coli group.

Conclusion

Those data provide a laboratory basis for the prevention and treatment of mixed infection of subsequent biological materials.
FOXO3a‐dependent Parkin regulates the development of gastric cancer by targeting ATP‐binding cassette transporter E1
Authors: Ding Dan , Ao Xiang , Li Mengyang , Miao Shuo , Liu Ying , Lin Zhijuan , Wang Mengyu , He Yuqi , Wang Jianxun
Published: September 2020

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in China and the third leading cause of cancer‐related death. Parkin has been shown to be a tumor suppressor in a variety of malignancies, including GC. However, the mechanism of Parkin in GC remains unclear. In this study, the low expression of Parkin in GC cells and patient tumor tissues was observed, and Parkin inhibited proliferation and migration of GC cells. Additionally, doxorubicin (DOX) upregulated the expression of Parkin and promoted its anticancer effect. Forkhead box O3 (FOXO3a) is a crucial transcription factor that involves in the regulation of cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metabolism. Here, we found that FOXO3a inhibits cell proliferation, migration, and promotes apoptosis in GC by regulating Parkin expression at the transcriptional level. In addition, Parkin inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and promoted apoptosis by inhibiting ATP‐binding box protein E1 (ABCE1) expression. In summary, our results demonstrated a new regulatory axis of FOXO3a–Parkin–ABCE1 that modulated GC cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis, and it can serve as a potential therapeutic target in GC.
Early Identification of Takotsubo syndrome in the emergency department using point‐of‐care echocardiography: A case series
Authors: Barnicle Ryan , Bracey Alexander , Secko Michael
Published: September 2020

Takotsubo syndrome (TS) is an incompletely understood, transient dysfunction of the left ventricle. While acute coronary syndrome must be at the forefront of the differential diagnosis and ruled out appropriately, the possibility of TS can be identified early with point‐of‐care ultrasonography. The formal diagnostic criteria for TS rely on invasive diagnostic procedures and resolution of symptoms, typically relegating it to a diagnosis of exclusion. However, the acute complications are potentially lethal, and rapid identification is therefore beneficial because these patients can be risk‐stratified to higher levels of care. Our case series of three patients, each with early suspected and subsequently confirmed TS, explores how early emergency department ultrasonography can suggest the diagnosis during the emergent workup, and potentially influence disposition decisions, subsequent interventions, and possibly even outcomes.
Scanning electron microscopic evaluation of the efficacy of 5% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid for smear layer removal
Authors: Orhan Ekim Onur , Bahadır Duygu , Akgün Ceyda , Aktaş Seher
Published: September 2020

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the smear layer removal efficacy of novel Saver® irrigating solution including 5% EDTA and to compare the 17% EDTA as the most used counterpart. Forty‐four single‐rooted teeth were divided into four groups, were instrumented, and irrigated. The smear treatment groups were as follows: sterile distilled water; 5.25% sodium hypochlorite; Saver®; 17% EDTA. The root samples were blinded. The micrographic images of root samples were collected by scanning electron microscope. The percentages of open dentin tubules were quantified using an image analysis software on micrographs. Two‐way ANOVA followed by Tukey's multiple comparisons was used (p < .05). The 17% EDTA showed the highest percentages of open dentin tubules than the other treatments (p < .01). The mean percentages of open dentin tubules of 17% EDTA revealed statistically highly significant differences than Saver® treatment in all root regions (p < .01). Dentin tubules were covered by dense smear layer in distilled water irrigation whereas, the tubular pattern of dentin structure was not observed in hypochlorite irrigation. The commercial Saver® product presented to be less cleaning property on the smear layer than 17% EDTA and failed to show any improvement in the removal of smear layer compared with its tested counterpart.
CD56dimCD57−NKG2C+ NK cells retaining proliferative potential are possible precursors of CD57+NKG2C+ memory-like NK cells
Authors: Kobyzeva Polina A , Streltsova Maria A , Erokhina Sofya A , Kanevskiy Leonid M , Telford William G , Sapozhnikov Alexander M , Kovalenko Elena I
Published: September 2020

Formation of the adaptive-like NK cell subset in response to HCMV infection is associated with epigenetic rearrangements, accompanied by multiple changes in the protein expression. This includes a decrease in the expression level of the adapter chain FcεRIγ, NKp30, and NKG2A receptors and an increase in the expression of NKG2C receptor, some KIR family receptors, and co-stimulating molecule CD2. Besides, adaptive-like NK cells are characterized by surface expression of CD57, a marker of highly differentiated cells. Here, it is shown that CD57-negative CD56dimNKG2C+ NK cells may undergo the same changes, as established by the similarity of the phenotypic expression pattern with that of the adaptive-like CD57+NKG2C+ NK cells. Regardless of their differentiation stage, NKG2C-positive NK cells had increased HLA-DR expression indicating an activated state, both ex vivo and after cultivation in stimulating conditions. Additionally, CD57−NKG2C+ NK cells exhibited better proliferative activity compared to CD57+NKG2C+ and NKG2C− NK cells, while retaining high level of natural cytotoxicity. Thus, CD57−NKG2C+ NK cells may represent a less differentiated, but readily expanding stage of the adaptive-like CD57+NKG2C+ NK cells. Moreover, it is shown that NK cells have certain phenotypic plasticity and may both lose NKG2C expression and acquire it de novo during proliferation, induced by IL-2 and K562-mbIL21 feeder cells.
Cytokine trafficking of IL-9 and IL-13 through TfnRc+ vesicles in activated human eosinophils
Authors: Almas Sarah , Fayad Nawell , Srivastava Ojas , Siddique Mujtaba , Touret Nicolas , Lacy Paige
Published: September 2020

Eosinophils are granulocytes that are elevated in lung mucosa in approximately half of patients with allergic asthma. These highly granulated cells can synthesize and secrete many cytokines, including IL-9 and IL-13. We hypothesized that IL-9 and IL-13 are found as preformed mediators in crystalloid granules and secreted using distinct trafficking pathways. Human eosinophils were purified from peripheral venous blood, adhered to coverslips, and stimulated with platelet activating factor (PAF). Cells were immunolabeled with antibodies to IL-9 or IL-13 and colocalized with markers for secretory organelles, using CD63 for crystalloid granules and transferrin receptor (TfnRc) for vesicles. Fixed cells were imaged using super-resolution microscopy and quantified by colocalization using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. IL-9 immunofluorescence increased in a time-dependent manner to PAF, whereas colocalization of IL-9 and CD63 significantly increased from 0.52 to 0.67 after 5 min PAF. Colocalization of IL-9 with TfnRc significantly increased at 60 min of stimulation with PAF (0.54 at 0 min to 0.60 at 60 min). IL-13 showed lower colocalization with CD63 (0.55) than TfnRc (0.63) in unstimulated cells. Upon PAF stimulation, IL-13 intensity transiently decreased at 5 and 60 min, whereas colocalization of IL-13 with CD63 decreased throughout stimulation to 0.43. While colocalization of IL-13 with TfnRc transiently increased to 0.66 at 5 min PAF, it returned to near baseline levels (0.64) after 15 min PAF. Our results suggest that IL-9 and IL-13 are stored in crystalloid granules as well as endosomal structures, and that IL-9 is primarily trafficked to the cell surface via TfnRc+ endosome-like vesicles.
Antibacterial activity of honeys from Amazonian stingless bees of Melipona spp. and its effects on bacterial cell morphology
Authors: Domingos Susan Christina Braga , Clebis Victor Hugo , Nakazato Gerson , de Oliveira Admilton Gonçalves , Takayama Kobayashi Renata Katsuko , Peruquetti Rui Carlos , Pereira Cynthia Dias , Santa Rosa Myrna Tielly , dos Santos Medeiros Luciana
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Stingless bee honey has great therapeutic potential, especially as an antimicrobial agent. In the present study, we evaluated the in vitro antibacterial potential of honey from Melipona spp. with occurrence in Rio Branco‐AC and Xapuri‐AC from the Amazonian region. Samples were collected from the species Melipona eburnea, Melipona grandis, Melipona flavolineata and Melipona seminigra. The antibacterial activity of the honey samples was tested against standard Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria and two strains isolated from bovine mastitis.

RESULTS

In the agar diffusion assay, we observed antibacterial activity for the four honeys against the tested strains. The honey from M. flavolineata showed a minimmum inhibitory concentration (MIC) lower than 3.12% (v/v). The minimum bactericidal concentration values were larger than the MIC for most of the microorganisms tested. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the damaging effect of the honey of M. flavolineata on Staphylococcus aureus cells, as well as its inhibitory effect on cell division.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study demonstrate that the honey from stingless bees possesses in vitro antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria. The effects observed by SEM show that honey from the Amazonian stingless bee M. flavolineata has promising therapeutic potential as a future antimicrobial agent. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry