bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of calcitriol and all‐trans retinoic acid on T‐bet, IFN‐γ, GATA3 and IL‐4 genes expression in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Parastouei Karim , Solaymani‐Mohammadi Farid , Shiri‐Shahsavar Mohammad Reza , Chahardoli Reza , Nasl‐Khameneh Ateke Mousavi , Zarandi Mehdi Borhani , Ghotloo Somayeh , Saboor‐Yaraghi Ali Akbar 
Published: August 2020

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune‐mediated inflammatory disease which affects the central nervous system (CNS). In the present study, the in vivo effects of ATRA, calcitriol, and their combinations on the expression of murine CD4+ T cell cytokines and their specific transcription factors in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE)‐induced mice were explored. Thirty‐two EAE induced inbred C57BL/6 female mice with an age ranged from 8 to 10 weeks were divided into four categories in a random manner. The first, second, and third groups received ATRA, calcitriol, ATRA+ calcitriol, respectively, and the fourth group received vehicle. The treatment started on the day prior to immunization and through the IP injections every other days for 21 days. The dosages of administration for calcitriol, ATRA, and calcitriol+ ATRA were 100 ng, 250 μg, and 50ng + 125 μg, respectively per mouse. An equal volume of excipient was administered for the vehicle group. T‐bet, IFN‐γ, GATA‐3, and IL‐4 genes expression were assessed in the splenocytes of EAE ‐induced mice. The expression of T‐bet and IFN‐γ genes in the splenocytes of ATRA, calcitriol and combination‐ treated mice were significantly reduced compared to vehicle group (p < 0.05). A significant decrease in T‐bet expression was observed in the combination‐treated group compared to the ATRA‐treated group (p < 0.05). The expression of GATA3 and IL‐4 genes was significantly increased in the ATRA‐, calcitriol‐, and combination‐treated mice when compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the effect of calcitriol alone and in combination with ATRA was more considerable than that of ATRA alone. The nutraceutical approaches may be promising in the prevention and/or treatment of MS.
Complement activation in polycystic ovary syndrome occurs in the postprandial and fasted state and is influenced by obesity and insulin sensitivity
Authors: Lewis Ruth D. , Narayanaswamy Anil K. , Farewell Daniel , Rees Dafydd Aled 
Published: August 2020

AbstractObjectivePolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with metabolic risk. Complement proteins regulate inflammation and lipid clearance but their role in PCOS‐associated metabolic risk is unclear. We sought to establish whether the complement system is activated in PCOS in the fasting and postprandial state.DesignCase‐control study.PatientsFasting complement levels were measured in 84 women with PCOS and 95 healthy controls. Complement activation post‐oral fat tolerance test (OFTT) was compared in 40 additional subjects (20 PCOS, 20 controls).MeasurementsActivation pathway (C3, C4, C3a(desArg), factor B, factor H, properdin, Factor D) and terminal pathway (C5, C5a, terminal complement complex [TCC]) proteins were measured by commercial or in‐house assays.ResultsFasting C3, C3a(desArg) and TCC concentrations were increased in insulin‐resistant (adjusted differences: C3 0.13 g/L [95%CI 0‐0.25]; C3a(desArg) 319.2 ng/mL [19.5‐619]; TCC 0.66 μg/mL [0.04‐1.28]) but not in insulin‐sensitive women with PCOS. C3 and factor H levels increased with obesity. Post‐OFTT, C3 and C4 levels increased to a similar extent in PCOS subjects and controls, whist factor H levels increased more in women with PCOS compared to controls (adjusted differences (area under the curve): 12 167 μg min/mL [4942‐19 392]), particularly in the presence of concomitant obesity.ConclusionsActivation and terminal complement pathway components are elevated in patients with PCOS, especially in the presence of insulin resistance and obesity.
Neural stem cells derived from the developing forebrain of YAC128 mice exhibit pathological features of Huntington’s disease
Authors: Li Endan , Park Hee Ra , Hong Chang Pyo , Kim Younghoon , Choi Jiwoo , Lee Suji , Park Hyun Jung , Lee Bomi , Kim Tae Aug , Kim Seong Jin , Kim Hyun Sook , Song Jihwan 
Published: August 2020

AbstractObjectivesHuntington's disease (HD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease caused by polyglutamine (polyQ) expansion in the huntingtin (HTT) gene. Mutant huntingtin (mHTT) is the main cause of HD and is associated with impaired mitochondrial dynamics, ubiquitin‐proteasome system and autophagy, as well as tauopathy. In this study, we aimed to establish a new neural stem cell line for HD studies.Materials and methodsYAC128 mice are a yeast artificial chromosome (YAC)‐based transgenic mouse model of HD. These mice express a full‐length human mutant HTT gene with 128 CAG repeats and exhibit various pathophysiological features of HD. In this study, we isolated a new neural stem cell line from the forebrains of YAC128 mouse embryos (E12.5) and analysed its characteristics using cellular and biochemical methods.ResultsCompared to wild‐type (WT) NSCs, the YAC128 NSC line exhibited greater proliferation and migration capacity. In addition to mHTT expression, increased intracellular Ca2+ levels and dysfunctional mitochondrial membrane potential were observed in the YAC128 NSCs. YAC128 NSCs had defects in mitochondrial dynamics, including a deficit in mitochondrial axonal transport and unbalanced fusion and fission processes. YAC128 NSCs also displayed decreased voltage response variability and Na+ current amplitude. Additionally, the ubiquitin‐proteasome and autophagy systems were impaired in the YAC128 NSCs.ConclusionsWe have established a new neural stem line from YAC128 transgenic mice, which may serve as a useful resource for studying HD pathogenesis and drug screening.
Angiosarcomatous transdifferentiation of metastatic melanoma
Authors: Kilsdonk Melvin J. , Romeijn Tonnis R. , Kelder Wendy , van Kempen Léon C. , Diercks Gilles F. 
Published: August 2020

AbstractMelanoma is known to show considerable variation in its histopathological presentation. In exceptional cases, heterologous or divergent differentiation (metaplastic melanoma) can be observed. We report a case of a 69‐year‐old man who was diagnosed with nodular melanoma on the right upper leg. One year later, the patient presented with an inguinal lymph node metastasis and a lymph node dissection was carried out. In two out of five positive lymph nodes, an angiosarcomatous component was found next to a conventional melanoma component. Shortly after, the patient developed two in‐transit metastases in which again an angiosarcomatous component was seen. The vascular component stained positive for ERG and CD31 and negative for melanocytic markers (Mart‐1, S100, SOX‐10), while the conventional melanoma had an opposite staining pattern. Molecular analysis on both components showed an identical mutation in the NRAS gene, which in our opinion proves the divergent differentiation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report describing angiosarcomatous transdifferentiation of melanoma.
WEGE: A new metric for ranking locations for biodiversity conservation
Authors: Farooq Harith , Azevedo Josué , Belluardo Francesco , Nanvonamuquitxo Cristóvão , Bennett Dominic , Moat Justin , Soares Amadeu , Faurby Søren , Antonelli Alexandre 
Published: August 2020

AbstractAimEffective policymaking for biological conservation requires the identification and ranking of the most important areas for protection or management. One of the most frequently used systems for selecting priority areas is the Key Biodiversity Areas (hereafter KBAs), developed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, KBAs cannot be used to rank areas, potentially limiting their use when limited funding is available. To tackle this shortcoming and facilitate spatial prioritization, here we develop and validate the “WEGE index” (Weighted Endemism including Global Endangerment index), consisting of an adaptation of the EDGE score (Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered). WEGE allows the ranking of any set of locations according to the KBA guidelines and on a continuous scale.LocationGlobal.MethodsWe calculated the EDGE score, Weighted Endemism, Evolutionary distinctiveness, Extinction risk and our newly developed WEGE index for all terrestrial species of amphibians, mammals and birds accessed by IUCN. We then compared the performance of each of those five indices at prioritizing areas according to the KBA guidelines.ResultsWe found that for all taxa surveyed, WEGE was consistently better at identifying areas that trigger KBA status.Main conclusionsIn our analyses, WEGE outperformed all other methods and metrics designed for similar purposes. It can serve as a robust evidence‐based methodology to prioritize among otherwise equally qualified sites according to the KBA categories. WEGE can therefore support transparent, evidence‐based and biologically meaningful decision‐making for conservation priorities.
Shifts in aquatic insect composition in a tropical forest stream after three decades of climatic warming
Authors: Dudgeon David , Ng Lily C. Y. , Tsang Toby P. N. 
Published: August 2020

AbstractThe effects of climatic warming on tropical streams have received little attention, and field studies of such changes are generally lacking. Drifting insects from a Hong Kong forest stream were sampled for 36 months between 2013 and 2016, and compared with samples collected using identical methods in 1983–84. Mean air temperatures rose by ~0.5°C (0.17°C per decade) over this period. The stream drained an uninhabited protected area, so no climate‐change effects were confounded by anthropogenic disturbance. In total, 105 taxa and >77,000 individuals were collected. Richness of samples in the historic and contemporary datasets did not differ, but true diversity of drifting insects was highest in 1983–84, and declined between 2013–14 and 2015–16. There was considerable disparity in assemblage composition between 1983–84 and 2013–16, and smaller between‐year changes in the contemporary dataset. Nine indicator species of the historic dataset were identified. Most were mayflies, particularly Baetidae, which were greatly reduced in relative abundance in 2013–16. Diptera became more numerous, and tanypodine chironomids were the sole contemporary indicator taxon. Relative abundance of eight of 19 drifting species (comprising 60% of total insects) was lower in 2013–16, when the dominant baetid mayfly during 1983–84 had declined by almost 90%; only one of the 19 species occurred at higher abundance. Eight species were affected by seasonal temperature variability, but these responses were not correlated with any tendency to exhibit long‐term changes in abundance. Substantial shifts in composition, including declines in mayfly relative abundance and assemblage diversity, occurred after three decades of warming, despite the broad annual range of stream temperatures (~16°C) in Hong Kong. This contradicts the well‐known prediction that organisms from variable climates have evolved wider thermal tolerances that reflect prevailing environmental conditions. The observed compositional reorganization indicates that variability, rather than stability, may be typical of undisturbed tropical stream communities.
Cdk1 negatively regulates the spindle localization of Prc1 in mouse oocytes
Authors: Nishiyama Sui , Yoshida Shuhei , Kitajima Tomoya S. 
Published: August 2020

AbstractChromosome segregation requires the formation of a bipolar spindle. The timely bipolarization of the acentrosomal spindle during meiosis I in mouse oocytes depends on the antiparallel microtubule crosslinker Prc1. How Prc1 is regulated in oocytes remains poorly understood. In this study, we show that the kinase Cdk1 negatively regulates the spindle localization of Prc1 in mouse oocytes. The acute inhibition of Cdk1 activity led to excessive localization of Prc1 at the spindle and kinetochores, whereas the overactivation of Cdk1 had opposite effects. The overexpression of Prc1 carrying mutations at Cdk1‐mediated phosphorylation sites increased its localization to the spindle, accelerated spindle bipolarization and caused spindle‐checkpoint‐dependent arrest at metaphase I. Overactivation of Cdk1 delayed spindle bipolarization, which was reversed by the overexpression of a phospho‐mutant form but not the wild‐type form of Prc1. These results suggest that Cdk1‐mediated phosphorylation negatively regulates Prc1 localization to ensure the timely bipolarization of the acentrosomal spindle during meiosis I in mammalian oocytes.
A comparative study of topical 5% cysteamine versus 4% hydroquinone in the treatment of facial melasma in women
Authors: Lima Paula Basso , Dias Joana Alexandria Ferreira , Cassiano Daniel , Esposito Ana Cláudia Cavalcante , Bagatin Ediléia , Miot Luciane Donida Bartoli , Miot Hélio Amante 
Published: August 2020

AbstractObjectiveTo assess the efficacy and safety of topical 5% cysteamine versus 4% hydroquinone in the treatment of facial melasma in women. Topical 5% cysteamine is an antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitor that has been shown to be effective in the treatment of melasma. However, to date, no study has compared the performance of topical cysteamine to hydroquinone for facial melasma.MethodsA quasi‐randomized, multicenter, evaluator‐blinded clinical trial was conducted on 40 women with facial melasma who were submitted to the nightly application of 5% cysteamine (CYS) or 4% hydroquinone (HQ) on hyperpigmented areas for 120 days. Both groups were required to use tinted sunscreen (SPF 50; PPD 19). Subjects were assessed at the inclusion and after 60 and 120 days of treatment for mMASI, MELASQoL, and the difference in colorimetric luminosity between melasma and the adjacent unaffected skin. The Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale was used to assess the difference in the appearance of the skin through standardized photographs.ResultsThe mean reduction of the mMASI scores was 24% for CYS and 41% for HQ (P = 0.015) at 60 days, and 38% for CYS and 53% for HQ (P = 0.017) at 120 days. The photographic evaluation revealed up to 74% improvement for both groups, without statistically significant difference between them (P = 0.087). The MELASQoL score showed a progressive decrease for both groups over time, despite the greater reduction for HQ after 120 days (P = 0.018). Colorimetric assessment disclosed progressive depigmenting in both groups, without statistically significant difference between them (P > 0.160). No severe adverse effects were identified in either group. Erythema and burning were the most important local adverse effects with cysteamine, although their frequency did not differ between groups (P > 0.170).ConclusionCysteamine proved to be safe, well‐tolerated, and effective, despite its inferior performance to hydroquinone in decreasing mMASI and MELASQoL in the treatment of melasma.
Structure–property relationship amphoteric oxide systems via phase stability and ionic structural analysis
Authors: Choi Joon Sung , Park Tae Jun , Min Dong Joon 
Published: August 2020

AbstractThe effects of basicity and amphoteric oxides (Al2O3 and FetO) on the structure–property relationships of CaO–SiO2–(Al2O3 and FetO) and CaO–SiO2–Al2O3–FetO slags were investigated to determine the constitutional effects on the structure of high‐temperature ionic melts. The proportion of Qn species, which is determined by Raman spectroscopy, and the viscosity measured by the rotating cylinder method are both correlated and shown together with the slag structure index (NBO/T) concept. The NBO/T of CaO‐SiO2 binary slags showed a linear relationship with basicity (CaO/SiO2), including an inflection point at CaO/SiO2 = 1.0 resulting from the stability and Qn‐dominant unit of the melt, which changes close to the wollastonite (CaSiO3) congruent point. This inflection point changes with the increasing amphoteric oxide content (Al2O3 and FetO) because of the change in the dominant polymeric unit (Si4+–O–Si4+→M4+–O–Si4+; M: Al and Fe), in accordance with the equilibrated primary phases. As the Al2O3 content increased, the viscosity and activation energy of slags both drastically increased owing to the change in the flow unit (Si–O–Si, Al–O–Si, and Al–O–Al). In contrast, as FetO increased, the viscosity and activation energy (Eη) of slags decreased because of the change in the flow unit (Si–O–Si, Fe–O–Si, and Fe–O–Fe). Ultimately, the flow unit (T–O–T; T = Si, Al, and Fe) and activation energy of the slags were found to be closely related to the solid primary phase on the phase diagram, and the physical‐property–structure relationship was determined from the phase stability.
Grain size engineered high‐performance nanograined BaTiO3‐based ceramics: Experimental and numerical prediction
Authors: Zhu Chaoqiong , Cai Ziming , Guo Limin , Li Longtu , Wang Xiaohui 
Published: August 2020

AbstractThe ultra‐thin multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) with layer thickness less than 1 μm or even 0.5 μm are in urgent demand due to the rapid development of modern electronic industries. Notably, the dielectric and ferroelectric properties of nanograined BaTiO3‐based ceramics, which are widely used as dielectric materials in MLCCs, are highly related to grain size. In this work, nanograined BaTiO3‐based ceramics with various grain sizes (50‐100 nm) were prepared via the chemical coating method. The grain size effect on the dielectric and energy storage properties were systematically investigated. TEM and EDS images demonstrate that the typical core‐shell structure is obtained inside ceramic grains even if the grain size is reduced to 50 nm. The fine‐grain ceramic displays a lower maximal polarization but a higher breakdown strength, which ascribes to its weaker ferroelectric contribution and higher grain boundary ratio, respectively. As a result, it is confirmed that there exists an optimal grain size around 70 nm where maximum discharge energy density is achieved under the synergy effect of breakdown strength and polarization, which is also verified by a finite element analysis based on a modified hyperbolic tangent model. All these features provide important guidance towards the design of ultra‐thin layer MLCCs by optimizing the dielectric properties and energy storage performance while pursuing miniaturization.
Hydrophobic coagulation of alumina slurries
Authors: Chen Han , Shimai Shunzo , Zhao Jin , Mao Xiaojian , Zhang Jian , Wang Zhengjuan , Yang Jian , Zhou Guohong , Wang Shiwei 
Published: August 2020

AbstractThis study reports a new wet forming method by hydrophobic modification of short‐chain anionic dispersants. The influence of the content and type of hydrophobic chains on the rheology of alumina slurries, the drying shrinkage rates of wet bodies, the density and strength of the green bodies, and the density and microstructure of the resultant ceramics were intensively investigated. It is revealed that hydrophobic modification can endow short‐chain dispersants with coagulation ability, when 0.3 wt% short‐chain PIBM (a copolymer of isobutylene and maleic anhydride) was combined with 0.1 wt% TMAC (tetramethylammonium chloride), solid loading of the slurry was increased to 58 vol% and the slurry can coagulate to a wet green body in a short time. The resultant green body showed a uniform microstructure and was successfully sintered into translucent ceramics.
A systematic review exploring palliative care for families who are forced migrants
Authors: Clancy Marie , Taylor Julie , Bradbury‐Jones Caroline , Phillimore Jenny 
Published: August 2020

AbstractAimsTo explore the palliative care experiences of forced migrant children, families, and healthcare professionals (HCPs) highlighting successes, challenges, and associated practice implications.DesignSystematic literature review.Data SourcesThe following search engines were searched from 2008 ‐ 2018: Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health, MEDLINE, Embase, ProQuest, Scopus, Psycinfo, and Web of Science. Extensive reference and citation checking were also conducted.Review MethodsSystematic review followed PRISMA guidelines with prepared PROSPERO registered protocol #CRD42019129200. English language qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods studies were eligible for inclusion. Study quality was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).ResultsEighteen studies (reported in 20 articles) met the final inclusion criteria. Most focused on challenges to care provision. Thematic analysis following methods proposed by Braun and Clarke was undertaken. Five themes were identified: (a) divergence of beliefs and expectations; (b) communication; (c) navigating healthcare systems; (d) burdens and coping strategies; and (e) training and knowledge. A compassionate, collaborative approach with mutual respect crossed themes and was linked to high‐quality care.ConclusionForced migrant families have multiple needs including physical and emotional support and help in navigating complex systems. Professional interpreters can ease communication barriers when resourced appropriately. Individualized care is crucial to addressing the intricate mosaic of culture such families present. A cultural sensitivity/insensitivity framework is presented that may help guide future interactions and priorities for those working in children's palliative care.ImpactThis systematic review explored the international experiences of palliative care for forced migrant families. The findings highlight the plight of families who experience multiple traumas and increased levels of grief and loss through their migration experiences and when caring for a child with a life‐limiting condition. This research has potential to have an impact on professionals working with culturally diverse families in all palliative care settings.
Somatic mutations in colorectal cancer are associated with the epigenetic modifications
Authors: Lei Hongwei , Tao Kaixiong 
Published: August 2020

AbstractColorectal cancer (CRC) mostly arises from progressive accumulation of somatic mutations within cells. Most commonly mutated genes like TP53, APC and KRAS can promote survival and proliferation of cancer cells. Although the molecular alterations and landscape of some specific mutations in CRC are well known, the presence of a somatic mutation signature related to genomic regions and epigenetic markers remain unclear. To find the signatures from a random distribution of somatic mutations in CRCs, we carried out enrichment analysis in different genomic regions and identified peaks of epigenetic markers. We validated that the mutation frequency in miRNA is dramatically higher than in flanking genomic regions. Moreover, we observed that somatic mutations in CRC and colon cancer cell lines are significantly enriched in CTCF binding sites. We also found these mutations are enriched for H3K27me3 in both normal sigmoid colon and colon cancer cell lines. Taken together, our findings suggest that there are some common somatic mutations signatures which provide new directions to study CRC.