bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dissipation of DvSnf7 RNA from Late-Season Maize Tissue in Aquatic Microcosms
Authors: Fischer Joshua R. , MacQuarrie Gillian R. , Malven Marianne , Song Zihong , Rogan Glennon 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
The commercialization of RNA-based agricultural products requires robust ecological risk assessments. Ecological risk is operationally defined as a function of exposure and adverse effects. Information on the environmental fate of RNA-based plant-incorporated protectants is essential to define routes and duration of exposure to potentially sensitive nontarget organisms. Providing these details in problem formulation helps focus the ecological risk assessment on the relevant species of concern. Postharvest plant residue is often considered to be the most significant route of exposure for genetically modified crops to adjacent aquatic environments. Previous studies have shown that DvSnf7 RNA from SmartStax PRO maize dissipates rapidly in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Although these studies suggest that direct exposure to DvSnf7 RNA is likely to be low, little is known regarding the fate of DvSnf7 RNA produced in plants after entering an aquatic environment. This exposure scenario is relevant to detritivorous aquatic invertebrates that process conditioned maize tissues that enter aquatic environments. To assess potential exposure to shredders, dissipation of DvSnf7 RNA expressed maize tissue was evaluated following immersion in microcosms containing sediment and water. Concentrations of DvSnf7 RNA in the tissue were measured over a duration of 21 d. The DvSnf7 RNA dissipated rapidly from immersed maize tissue and was undetectable in the tissues after 3 d. Concentrations of DvSnf7 RNA found in tissue as well as calculated water column concentrations were below levels known to elicit effects in a highly sensitive surrogate species, supporting the conclusion of minimal risk to aquatic nontarget organisms. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:1032–1040. © 2020 SETAC
Intriguing Carbon Flake Formation during Microwave‐Assisted Hydrothermal Carbonization of Sodium Lignosulfonate
Authors: Melilli Giuseppe , Adolfsson Karin H. , Impagnatiello Andrea , Rizza Giancarlo , Hakkarainen Minna 
Published: February 2020

AbstractElongated carbon structures, here denoted as carbon flakes (CF), are revealed after microwave‐assisted hydrothermal carbonization of sodium lignosulfonate. The morphology of formed CF is investigated by transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Interestingly, a wide range of length distributions (between 100 and 700 nm) and a relatively constant aspect ratio and thickness are observed, indicating structures clearly different from the carbon spheres commonly formed during hydrothermal carbonization of lignocellulosic biomass. Moreover, X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy provide further information of the chemical structure, which consist mainly of nanographitic domains with a high degree of defects such as oxygenated functional groups, hybridized sp3 carbon, and aliphatic side chains. Furthermore, new insights into the formation mechanisms are uncovered and the formation is speculated to proceed through the combined effect of microwave irradiation and a heterogeneous solid–solid conversion. The formed CF are anticipated as highly interesting products for a variety of material applications.
Exploring variations in health‐care expenditures—What is the role of practice styles?
Authors: Ahammer Alexander , Schober Thomas 
Published: February 2020

AbstractVariations in medical resource usage, both across and within geographical regions, have been widely documented. In this paper, we explore physician practice styles as a possible determinant of these variations. In particular, we exploit patient mobility between physicians to identify practice styles among general practitioners (GPs) in Austria. We use a large administrative data set containing detailed information on a battery of different health‐care services and implement a model with additive patient and GP fixed effects that allows flexibly for systematic differences in patients' health states. We find that, although GPs explain only a small part of the overall variation in medical expenses, heterogeneities in spending patterns among GPs are substantial. Conditional on patient characteristics, we document a difference of € 751.47 per patient per year in total medical expenses (which amounts to roughly 45% of the sample mean) between high‐ and low‐spending GPs.
On the mixed convective carbon nanotube flow over a convectively heated curved surface
Authors: Acharya Nilankush , Bag Raju , Kundu Prabir K. 
Published: February 2020

AbstractIn this article, mixed convective boundary layer stream of nanofluid flow with carbon nanotube as nanoparticles and transmission of heat over a coiled stretched surface are studied. The influence of magnetic orientation and velocity slip is also encountered in this problem. Two classes of carbon nanotubes, SWCNT and MWCNT, are considered as nanoparticles and water as a pure liquid. The foremost leading partial differential equations (PDEs) are formulated through curvilinear coordinate system subjected to proper boundary conditions. To simplify this nonlinear PDE‐associated model, we have employed a compatible similarity conversion and acquired the nonlinear dimensionless ordinary differential equations (ODEs). To determine the requisite numerical solution of the transformed problem, a shooting procedure embedded with RK‐4 technique has been applied. Various pictorial attempts have been initiated against different parametric inputs to reveal the hydrothermal scenario. Some physical quantities like skin friction and Nusselt numbers are calculated to investigate flow distribution inside the preferred system. A comparison with earlier research depicts parallel outcomes. Results assured that velocity is a cumulative function with positive increment of curvature parameter, but an opposite scenario is shown for temperature for both type of nanofluids. The amount of heat transition has been declined against the improvement of the magnetic parameter.
New insights into the vancomycin‐induced nephrotoxicity using in vitro metabolomics combined with physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling
Authors: Du Haiyan , Li Zheng , Yang Yi , Li Xiao , Wei Yongxiang , Lin Yang , Zhuang Xiaomei 
Published: February 2020

AbstractVancomycin is a first‐line treatment for invasive infections caused by multidrug‐resistant gram‐positive bacteria. However, vancomycin‐induced nephrotoxicity is an increasing burden, particularly in patients with complex life‐threatening conditions. Vancomycin‐induced nephrotoxicity associated with clinically relevant exposure on the target site has not been well defined. This study aimed to acquire the concentration of vancomycin in the renal tubules and kidneys in humans using physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling and simulation. Based upon the exposure of vancomycin in the renal tubule, the toxicity of vancomycin in human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells was examined with the XTT assay and in vitro metabolomics analysis. A rat PBPK model predicting plasma and kidney concentration‐time profiles of vancomycin matched the observed behavior after a single administration of 10 mg/kg. The concentration of vancomycin in renal tubules was about 40‐50 times higher than that in plasma. The human PBPK model transferred from the rat model predicted renal tubule concentrations of vancomycin as 316.1‐2136.6 μg/mL at 500 mg every 6 hours, and 199.0‐3932.5 μg/mL at 1000 mg every 12 hours. Vancomycin showed significant nephrotoxicity at 4 mg/mL in XTT assessment. In total, 11 lysophosphatidylcholines and one lysophosphatidylethanolamine were identified by metabolomics analysis. The concentration‐dependent increase was evident in the release of lysophospholipids after vancomycin treatment (0.125‐4 mg/mL) for 24 hours. Our study revealed the relationship between the exposure of vancomycin in the kidney and toxicity of vancomycin at clinically relevant concentrations achieved from a mechanical PBPK model. A series of lysophospholipids as potential metabolic markers of renal toxicity were identified.
Wastewater‐derived antagonistic activities of G protein‐coupled receptor‐acting pharmaceuticals in river water
Authors: Ihara Masaru , Hanamoto Seiya , Ihara Mariko O. , Zhang Han , Tanaka Hiroaki 
Published: February 2020

AbstractPharmaceuticals are widely detected in aquatic environments, and their potential risks to aquatic species are of concern because they are designed to be biologically active. Here, we used an in vitro assay, called the transforming growth factor α shedding assay, to measure the biological activities of G protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR)‐acting pharmaceuticals present in river water and effluents from municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in Japan from 2014 to 2016. Antagonistic activities against angiotensin (AT1), dopamine (D2), adrenergic (β1), acetylcholine (M1) and histamine (H1) receptors were detected in river water, and were stronger downstream than upstream owing to effluent from WWTPs along the river. Ozonation at one WWTP reduced these activities. Concentrations of sulpiride (D2 antagonist) could explain 73% of antagonistic activities against the D2 receptor; those of metoprolol, atenolol and propranolol (β1 antagonists) could explain 16% of activities against the β1 receptor; and those of pirenzepine (M1 antagonist) could explain 15% of activities against the M1 receptor. Therefore, other receptor antagonists also occur. GPCR‐acting pharmaceuticals should be given more attention in environmental monitoring and toxicity testing.
Development of hyperthermia measurable fiber radiometric thermometer for thermotherapy
Authors: Franz Paris L. , Wang Hui 
Published: February 2020

AbstractTemperature monitoring is extremely important during thermotherapy. Fiber‐optic temperature sensors are preferred because of their flexibility and immunity to electromagnetic interference. Although many types of fiber‐optic sensors have been developed, clinically adopting them remains challenging. Here, we report a silica fiber‐based radiometric thermometer using a low‐cost extended InGaAs detector to detect black body radiation between 1.7 and 2.4 μm. For the first time, this silica fiber‐based thermometer is capable of measuring temperatures down to 35°C, making it suitable for monitoring hyperthermia during surgery. In particular, the thermometer has potential for seamless integration with current silica fiber catheters, which are widely used in laser interstitial thermotherapy. The feasibility, capability and sensitivity of tracking tissue temperature variation were proved through ex vivo tissue studies. After further improvement, the technology has the potential to be translated into clinics for monitoring tissue temperature.
Exercise May Ameliorate the Detrimental Side Effects of High Vitamin D Supplementation on Muscle Function in Mice
Authors: Debruin Danielle A , Timpani Cara A , Lalunio Hannah , Rybalka Emma , Goodman Craig A , Hayes Alan 
Published: February 2020

ABSTRACT
Vitamin D is commonly prescribed to normalize deficiencies and to treat osteoporosis. However, the effect vitamin D supplements have on skeletal muscle health is equivocal. Although vitamin D is known to play a role in the various processes that maintain muscle integrity and function, recent studies utilizing high bolus dose vitamin D supplementation has demonstrated an increased risk of falls. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of high vitamin D supplementation on skeletal muscle function with and without exercise enrichment. Four-week old C57BL/10 mice (n = 48) were separated into either normal vitamin D (1500 IU/kg diet; unsupplemented) or high vitamin D (20,000 IU/kg diet; supplemented) treatment groups. Each dietary group was further separated into interventional subgroups where mice either remained sedentary or received exercise-enrichment for 8 weeks in the form of voluntary running. Following the intervention period, whole body in vivo and ex vivo contractile analysis were performed. High vitamin D supplementation decreased force production in the slow-twitch soleus muscles of sedentary mice (p &lt; .01); however, exercise normalized this effect. Eight weeks of exercise did not improve fatigue resistance of the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) or soleus muscles in unsupplemented mice, likely due to low levels of activation in these muscles. In contrast, fatigability was improved in the EDL (p &lt; .01) and even more so in the soleus (p &lt; .001) in the supplemented exercise-enriched group. Our data highlights that increasing vitamin D levels above normal reduces postural muscle force as seen in the soleus. Thus, unnecessary vitamin D supplementation may contribute to the increased risk of falls observed in some studies. Interestingly, when vitamin D supplementation was combined with exercise, force production was effectively restored, and fatigue resistance improved, even in muscles lowly activated. Regular exercise may modulate the effects of vitamin D on skeletal muscle, and be recommended for individuals receiving vitamin D supplements. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The next merger and acquisition hot spot in the Middle East (2009–2018): An Update
Authors: Metwalli Ali M. , Demello Jim P. 
Published: February 2020

AbstractMergers and acquisitions are being increasingly used by corporate managers, worldwide, to enter, develop, and enhance market share. Major economic, social, and political changes have taken place in various countries in the Middle East region during the past decade as a result of the global recession of 2008 and the Arab Spring of 2011 resulting in the implementation of policies fostering foreign direct investment, economic growth, and stability. Published research regarding the impact of these policies on business organizations, investment, trade, and competitive strategies is fairly sparse. This article provides an update regarding the merger and acquisition trends that have resulted in 19 countries of the Middle East, with a particular focus on Israel, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Egypt.
Ectopic expression of LAG‐3 in non–small‐cell lung cancer cells and its clinical significance
Authors: Ma Chenglong , Sun Xiao , Shen Dong , Sun Yuejun , Guan Naifu , Qi Chunjian 
Published: February 2020

AbstractBackgroundLymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG‐3, also known as CD223) is an immune checkpoint molecule expressed on various types of lymphocytes, and it is mainly involved in maintaining immune homeostasis. However, there are currently no data on LAG‐3 expression in non–small‐cell lung cancer cells.MethodsHuman lung cancer cells were cultured using conventional methods. The expression of LAG‐3 was measured by Western blot and flow cytometry. Between April 2018 and May 2019, we collected 52 surgical specimens of stage I‐III non–small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Fourteen samples of benign lung tissue lesions were collected as the control group, and the expression levels of LAG‐3 in the lung cancer cells and tissue samples were measured via immunohistochemistry.ResultsWestern blots showed that LAG‐3 was expressed in lung cancer cell lines. There was significant difference in the LAG‐3 expression levels in the NSCLC cells and benign lung tissue (χ2 = 13.055, P = .0003). The LAG‐3 expression level was significantly associated with the NSCLC clinical stage, and LAG‐3 expression was significantly higher in stage III patients (P < .05).ConclusionLAG‐3 is expressed in NSCLC tumor cells. Furthermore, LAG‐3 not only is expressed in tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes in NSCLC patients but also is ectopically expressed in tumor cells and associated with TNM stage.
A lesson learnt from the emergence of Zika virus: What flaviviruses can trigger Guillain‐Barré syndrome?
Authors: Leung Char 
Published: February 2020

AbstractWhile Zika virus outbreaks raised the concern about rare viral infections in human, attention should also be paid to other Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) inducing viruses. This study aims to search for other flaviviruses likely to be associated with GBS. Amino acid (aa) sequence matching analysis was conducted to identify viruses molecularly similar to the Zika virus and human GBS‐related proteins. A systematic review of clinical literature was performed to summarize the clinical findings of the GBS‐associated flaviviruses identified in the aa sequence matching analysis. It was found that more than 10 pentapeptides were shared between 9 flaviviruses, Zika virus, and human GBS‐related proteins. Twenty‐six articles totaling 42 clinical cases were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review concerning the nine flaviviruses identified. While some patients showed signs of encephalitis, 5 out of 42 cases demonstrated typical GBS symptoms. Public health professionals should be aware of other GBS‐associated flaviviruses and GBS cases with mild symptoms.
GP73 facilitates hepatitis B virus replication by repressing the NF‐κB signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Long , Zhu Jianyong , Yang Jing , Li Xiaohua , Yuan Jie , Wu Jianguo , Liu Zhixin 
Published: February 2020

AbstractHepatitis B virus (HBV) chronically infects approximately 350 million people worldwide, and 600 000 deaths are caused by HBV‐related hepatic failure. Golgi protein 73 (GP73) is a serum biomarker for liver diseases, including chronic hepatitis B. Here, we determine the effect of HBV infection on GP73 production and characterized the role of GP73 in HBV replication. Initially, we show that GP73 is highly produced in the sera of HBV‐positive patients with chronic liver diseases and in HBV‐stimulated leukocytes. In addition, HBV stimulation promotes GP73 production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from healthy donors and in macrophages derived from human acute monocytic leukemia cells (THP‐1). Notably, the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), but not HBV replication, is required for the activation of GP73 expression. Moreover, in HepG2 cells and Huh7 cells, GP73 facilitates HBV replication and represses nuclear factor kappa B p50 expression, which in turn represses HBV replication and GP73 expression. Finally, we demonstrate that GP73 facilitates HBV replication by repressing the innate immune response and the nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway. Taken together, we revealed a distinct positive feedback mechanism between HBV replication and GP73 production and suggest that GP73 acts as a potential antiviral target for HBV infection.
The Application of a Nuclease Enzyme to Clean Stubborn Soils and Odors in Laundry
Authors: Morales‐Garcia Ana L. , Hayward Adam S. , Malekpour Adam K. , Korzycka Karolina A. , Compson Rachael , Gori Klaus , Lant Neil J. 
Published: February 2020

AbstractThe inclusion of a nuclease, a new‐to‐laundry enzyme class in detergent formulations, reduces the concentration of recalcitrant soils on dirty clothing. Nucleases target extracellular DNA that, albeit present in minor quantities in soiled laundry items, disproportionately contributes to the accumulation of sebaceous soils and other compounds that affect the appearance of clothes. These lingering soils accumulate over multiple wear cycles and provoke a dingy appearance in clothing, characterized by dull colors, yellow staining, and an unpleasant malodor. The single and continued use of a nuclease in detergent formulations offers increased removal of these recalcitrant soils to produce less malodorous and visually preferred textiles. Furthermore, the nuclease is effective across different detergent forms, as well as in cotton short washing cycles, enabling improved cleaning in more sustainable laundry washing conditions.
Recent advances in the bioanalytical methods of polyethylene glycols and PEGylated pharmaceuticals
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Zhang Yuyao , Song Shiwen , Yin Lei , Sun Dong , Gu Jingkai 
Published: February 2020

AbstractPolyethylene glycols are synthetic polymers composed of repeating oxyethylene subunits, which have been known for non‐toxic, non‐immunogenic, non‐antigenic, good solubility in water and therefore approved for pharmaceutical applications. Recently, attachment or amalgamation of polyethylene glycols to therapeutic small molecules, peptides, proteins, or nanoparticles has become a mature technology for the sake of improving their pharmacokinetic and pharmacological profiles, also referred to as PEGylation. By comparison, there are only a few PEGylated pharmaceuticals have been registered for further clinical trials and even less was approved for marketing. High failure rate of PEGylated pharmaceuticals in pre‐clinical and clinical trials could be majorly attributed to their unclear pharmacokinetic behaviors. Therefore, the in vivo fate of the PEGylated pharmaceuticals for the various routes of administration needs to be thoroughly investigated An accurate in vivo pharmacological study thereof highly depends on the precise detection of polyethylene glycols as well as their fragments in biological matrixes. The goal of this review is to highlight the analytical methods that were developed and applied to evaluate the polyethylene glycols in pharmaceutical ingredients and excipients, which bring us closer to bridging the gap between the development of polyethylene glycol‐based drug delivery systems and their clinical application.
Model simulation of seasonal growth of Fucus vesiculosus in its benthic community
Authors: Graiff Angelika , Karsten Ulf , Radtke Hagen , Wahl Martin , Eggert Anja 
Published: February 2020

AbstractNumerical models are a suitable tool to quantify impacts of predicted climate change on complex ecosystems but are rarely used to study effects on benthic macroalgal communities. Fucus vesiculosus L. is a habitat‐forming macroalga in the Baltic Sea and alarming shifts from the perennial Fucus community to annual filamentous algae are reported. We developed a box model able to simulate the seasonal growth of the Baltic Fucus–grazer–epiphyte system. This required the implementation of two state variables for Fucus biomass in units of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N). Model equations describe relevant physiological and ecological processes, such as storage of C and N assimilates by Fucus, shading effects of epiphytes or grazing by herbivores on both Fucus and epiphytes, but with species‐specific rates and preferences. Parametrizations of the model equations and required initial conditions were based on measured parameters and process rates in the near‐natural Kiel Outdoor Benthocosm (KOB) experiments during the Biological Impacts of Ocean Acidification project. To validate the model, we compared simulation results with observations in the KOB experiment that lasted from April 2013 until March 2014 under ambient and climate‐change scenarios, that is, increased atmospheric temperature and partial pressure of carbon dioxide. The model reproduced the magnitude and seasonal cycles of Fucus growth and other processes in the KOBs over 1 yr under different scenarios. Now having established the Fucus model, it will be possible to better highlight the actual threat of climate change to the Fucus community in the shallow nearshore waters of the Baltic Sea.