bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal Continuity in Understanding and Production of Giving‐Related Behavior From Infancy to Childhood
Authors: Juvrud Joshua , Bakker Marta , Kaduk Katharina , DeValk Josje M. , Gredebäck Gustaf , Kenward Benjamin 
Published: August 2018

Infants have an early understanding of giving (the transfer of an item by one agent to another), but little is known about individual differences in these abilities or their developmental outcomes. Here, 9‐month‐olds (N = 59) showing clearer neural processing (Event‐related potential, ERP) of a give‐me gesture also evidenced a stronger reaction (pupil dilation) to an inappropriate response to a give‐me gesture, and at 2 years were more likely to give in response to a give‐me gesture. None of the differences in understanding and production of giving‐related behaviors were associated with other sociocognitive variables investigated: language, gaze‐following, and nongiving helping. The early developmental continuity in understanding and production of giving behavior is consistent with the great importance of giving for humans throughout the life span.
SRPK1 gene silencing promotes vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and vascular remodeling via inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in a rat model of intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Li Xin‐Guo , Wang Yi‐Bao 
Published: August 2018

SummaryObjectiveIntracranial aneurysm (IA) is a life threatening cerebrovascular disease characterized by phenotypic modulation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and loss of vessel cells. In addition to environmental factors, genetic factors have been proposed to be a critical factor in the onset and progression of IA. The present study investigates the effects of serine‐arginine protein kinase 1 (SRPK1) on VSMC proliferation and apoptosis both in vivo and in vitro, as well as its role in vascular remodeling in vivo through PI3 K/Akt signaling in IA.MethodsDifferentially expressed genes related to IA were initially identified using microarray analysis. Immunohistochemistry was conducted to determine SRPK1 expression in the vascular walls in IA and normal cerebral vascular walls. TUNEL staining were applied to observe cell apoptosis patterns of VSMCs. VSMC proliferation and apoptosis in vitro were detected by cell counting kit‐8 (CCK8) assay and flow cytometry. The expressions of SRPK1, PI3 K/Akt signaling pathway‐ and apoptosis‐related genes were evaluated by RT‐qPCR and Western blot analysis.ResultsMicroarray data of GSE36791 and GSE54083 were analyzed to determine the selection of SRPK1 gene. The vascular walls in IA rat models produced high levels of SRPK1 expression and an activated PI3 K/Akt signaling pathway. VSMCs treated with siRNA‐SRPK1 exhibited enhanced cell proliferation, repressed cell apoptosis, and increased vascular remodeling, all of which suggest the inhibition of the PI3 K/AKT pathway. Notably, PI3 K/AKT pathway reversed the effect of SRPK1 silencing.ConclusionOur results show that siRNA‐mediated silencing of SRPK1 gene inhibits VSMC apoptosis, and increases VSMCs proliferation and vascular remodeling in IA via the PI3 K/Akt signaling pathway. Our findings provide a novel intervention target for the molecular treatment of IA.
Multicenter feasibility study of bowel preparation with castor oil for colon capsule endoscopy
Authors: Ohmiya Naoki , Hotta Naoki , Mitsufuji Shoji , Nakamura Masanao , Omori Takafumi , Maeda Kohei , Okuda Kotaro , Yatsuya Hiroshi , Tajiri Hisao 
Published: August 2018

Background and AimExtensive use of laxatives and incomplete excretion rates are problematic for colon capsule endoscopy (CCE). The aim of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of castor oil as a booster.MethodsAt four Japanese hospitals, 319 examinees undergoing CCE were enrolled retrospectively. Before and after the introduction of castor oil, other preparation reagents were unchanged.ResultsOf 319 examinees who underwent CCE, 152 and 167 examinees took regimens with castor oil (between November 2013 and June 2016) and without castor oil (between October 2015 and September 2017), respectively. Capsule excretion rates within its battery life in the groups with and without castor oil were 97% and 81%, respectively (P < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis showed that ages younger than 65 years (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 3.00; P = 0.0048), male gender (adjusted OR, 3.20; P = 0.0051), and use of castor oil (adjusted OR, 6.29; P = 0.0003) were predictors of capsule excretion within its battery life. Small bowel transit time was shorter and total volume of lavage and fluid intake was lower with castor oil than without (P = 0.0154 and 0.0013, respectively). Overall adequate cleansing level ratios with and without castor oil were 74% and 83%, respectively (P = 0.0713). Per‐examinee sensitivity for polyps ≥6 mm with and without castor oil was 83% and 85%, respectively, with specificities of 80% and 78%, respectively.ConclusionBowel preparation with castor oil was effective for improving capsule excretion rate and reducing liquid loading.
Language matters: a UK perspective
Authors: Lloyd C. E. , Wilson A. , Holt R. I. G. , Whicher C. , Kar P. ,   the Language Matters Group
Published: August 2018

AbstractAimTo review the existing evidence regarding the use of language in clinical encounters.BackgroundAwareness of the importance of language in clinical encounters is mostly lacking or located within broader discussions on communication.MethodsA scoping study was conducted to review existing research that could increase our understanding of the role language plays as well as identify gaps in knowledge and inform the development of a position statement on language in diabetes care.ResultsEvidence shows that, although carefully chosen language can have a positive effect, there is a potential negative impact of language on people's experiences of diabetes care. The use of stigmatizing and discriminatory words during communication between healthcare practitioners and people with diabetes can lead to disengagement with health services as well as sub‐optimal diabetes self‐management. Clinical encounters can be compromised where language barriers exist or where there is limited understanding of cultural differences that may have an impact on diabetes self‐management. What little empirical evidence there is shows that training can improve language and communication skills.ConclusionThis review raises a number of questions that are being addressed by the NHS England Language Matters Group, which has developed a set of recommendations to support the use of appropriate language in clinical encounters.
Sex differences in the effect of cannabinoid type 1 receptor deletion on locus coeruleus‐norepinephrine neurons and corticotropin releasing factor‐mediated responses
Authors: Wyrofsky Ryan R. , Reyes Beverly A. S. , Yu Daohai , Kirby Lynn G. , Van Bockstaele Elisabeth J. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractCannabinoids are capable of modulating mood, arousal, cognition and behavior, in part via their effects on the noradrenergic nucleus locus coeruleus (LC). Dysregulation of LC signaling and norepinephrine (NE) efflux in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) can lead to the development of psychiatric disorders, and CB1r deletion results in alterations of α2‐ and β1‐adrenoceptors in the mPFC, suggestive of increased LC activity. To determine how CB1r deletion alters LC signaling, whole‐cell patch‐clamp electrophysiology was conducted in LC‐NE neurons of male and female wild type (WT) and CB1r‐knock out (KO) mice. CB1r deletion caused a significant increase in LC‐NE excitability and input resistance in male but not female mice when compared to WT. CB1r deletion also caused adaptations in several indices of noradrenergic function. CB1r/CB2r‐KO male mice had a significant increase in cortical NE levels and tyrosine hydroxylase and CRF levels in the LC compared to WT males. CB1r/CB2r‐KO female mice showed a significant increase in LC α2‐AR levels compared to WT females. To further probe actions of the endocannabinoid system as an anti‐stress neuromediator, the effect of CB1r deletion on CRF‐induced responses in the LC was investigated. The increase in LC‐NE excitability observed in male and female WT mice following CRF (300 nM) bath application was not observed in CB1r‐KO mice. These results indicate that cellular adaptations following CB1r deletion cause a disruption in LC‐NE signaling in males but not females, suggesting underlying sex differences in compensatory mechanisms in KO mice as well as basal endocannabinoid regulation of LC‐NE activity.
Lamotrigine pharmacokinetics following oral and stable‐labeled intravenous administration in young and elderly adult epilepsy patients: Effect of age
Authors: Polepally Akshanth R. , Brundage Richard C. , Remmel Rory P. , Leppik Ilo E. , Pennell Page B. , White James R. , Ramsay R. Eugene , Kistner Brett M. , Birnbaum Angela K. 
Published: August 2018

SummaryObjectiveThe objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of age on pharmacokinetic parameters of lamotrigine (LTG) and estimate parameter variability.MethodsPatients (>18 years old) who were already on a steady‐state dose of LTG therapy with no interacting comedications were enrolled. Patients with significant cardiac disease, severe kidney dysfunction, or moderate‐to‐severe liver dysfunction were excluded. Fifty milligrams of a stable‐labeled intravenous LTG formulation (SL‐LTG) replaced 50 mg of a patient's normal daily oral LTG dose. Thirteen blood samples were collected in each person over 96 hours. SL‐LTG and unlabeled LTG concentrations were measured simultaneously by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Concentration‐time data were analyzed by nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling (NONMEM version 7.3).ResultsTwenty‐eight patients representing 16 young (18‐48 years old) and 12 elderly (63‐87 years old) patients were included, yielding 382 unlabeled and 351 SL‐LTG concentrations. A two‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and elimination adequately described the plasma concentration‐time data. Bioavailability of oral LTG was approximately 74% and did not differ by age. LTG clearance was 27.2% lower in elderly than in young patients (1.80 L/h for a 70‐kg patient).SignificanceAlthough LTG bioavailability was not affected by age, LTG clearance was 27.2% lower in elderly versus young patients of comparable body weight, possibly indicating lower dosages being needed in this population.
Dedifferentiation, transdifferentiation and cell fusion: in vivo reprogramming strategies for regenerative medicine
Authors: Pesaresi Martina , Sebastian‐Perez Ruben , Cosma Maria Pia 
Published: August 2018

Regenerative capacities vary enormously across the animal kingdom. In contrast to most cold‐blooded vertebrates, mammals, including humans, have very limited regenerative capacity when it comes to repairing damaged or degenerating tissues. Here, we review the main mechanisms of tissue regeneration, underlying the importance of cell dedifferentiation and reprogramming. We discuss the significance of cell fate and identity changes in the context of regenerative medicine, with a particular focus on strategies aiming at the promotion of the body's self‐repairing mechanisms. We also introduce some of the most recent advances that have resulted in complete reprogramming of cell identity in vivo. Lastly, we discuss the main challenges that need to be addressed in the near future to develop in vivo reprogramming approaches with therapeutic potential.
Obtaining hydroxyapatite from the exoskeleton and spines of the purple sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus
Authors: Mancilla‐Sanchez Egar , Gómez‐Gutiérrez Claudia M. , Guerra‐Rivas Graciela , Soto‐Robles Carlos A. , Vilchis‐Nestor Alfredo R. , Vargas Eunice , Luque Priscy A. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractWe present a simple, quick, and viable way to produce hydroxyapatite (HA) from a waste by‐product of the sea food industry, this was achieved by submitting the exoskeleton of the purple sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus through a chemical reaction with H3PO4 at 3 different times (3, 18, and 36 hours) with constant stirring at 35‐40°C. The characterization of the materials was made by several techniques (FTIR, XRD, SEM‐EDS, and TEM).The FTIR results confirmed the presence of the HA characteristic functional groups OH, PO4, and CO3, the XRD characterization showed that the synthesis of calcium phosphates such as brushite and HA was achieved by confirming the presence of its characteristic peaks, also the EDS analysis confirmed the expected HA Ca/P atomic ratio of 1.67. This work shows that we can take advantage from raw materials derived from processing sea food by giving it an added value for the biomedical industry.
Improving the thermal stability of anisyl alcohol by β‐galactosidase enzymatic glycosylation
Authors: Lin Shu‐Ling , Wei Tao , Lin Shuoxin , Chen Shu , Guo Li‐Qiong , Lin Jun‐Fang , Yun Fan 
Published: August 2018

SummaryAnisyl alcohol is an important spice in flavouring industries. However, its volatility makes it easy to degrade in high‐temperature pretreatment, thus limiting its wider application in tobacco industry and food reheating. To develop thermal stable flavour of this spice, a novel flavour precursor anisalcohol‐β‐galactoside was synthesised by glycosylation reaction, using anisyl alcohol and D‐lactose as substrates and recombinant β‐galactosidase as catalyst. The thermal decomposition process was determined by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). TG curves revealed the maximum weight loss of anisyl alcohol reached 75% between 90 and 190 °C, while that of anisicohol‐β‐galactosidase was only 54% between 240 and 360 °C, which was an even higher range of temperature. The optimisation in thermal behaviour of anisicohol‐β‐galactosidase made it prospectively available in high‐temperature pretreatment and provided a new method for thermal stability improvement of other similar spices.
Consolidation and characterization of highly dense single‐phase Ta–Hf–C solid solution ceramics
Authors: Zhang Jian , Wang Song , Li Wei 
Published: August 2018

AbstractHerein, Ta–Hf–C solid solution ceramics were consolidated from nano‐scale Ta–Hf–C solid solution powders for the first time. Four different compositions (4TaC–1HfC, 1TaC–1HfC, 1TaC–3HfC, and 1TaC–4HfC) were prepared by hot‐pressed sintering at 2100°C, 70 MPa pressure and a holding time of 30 minutes. The densification, formation of single‐phase solid solution and mechanical properties of the samples were systemically investigated. Relative density >95% was achieved for all four compositions with some improvement when TaC content was increased. And the formation of single‐phase Ta–Hf–C solid solution was strongly demonstrated by phase analysis and crystal measurement using XRD and TEM. A significant improvement of hardness up to ~30 GPa was achieved, which was much higher than that of pure TaC (18.9 GPa) and HfC (22.1 GPa), due to the high densification and solid solution strengthening mechanism.
In situ single‐step reduction and silicidation of MoO3 to form MoSi2
Authors: Sharma Piyush , Kaur Taranpreet , Pandey Om Prakash 
Published: August 2018

AbstractNanocrystalline molybdenum disilicide (MoSi2) is synthesized in a specially designed autoclave at 900°C. The XRD results revealed that the formation of MoSi2 is favorable with the blend of MoO3, Si, and Mg powders. The HR‐TEM and SAED patterns confirm the formation of MoSi2 phase. The structural parameters (crystallite size, strain, stress, and deformation energy density) are calculated using the Williamson‐Hall (W‐H) analysis. The formation mechanism involved in the synthesis of MoSi2 is proposed. The nonisothermal oxidation kinetics (~1200°C) of MoSi2 phase is examined through the thermal analysis techniques. The activation energy is determined by the Kissinger‐Akahira‐Sunsose isoconversional kinetic model. Finally, the reaction mechanism involved during the oxidation of MoSi2 phase is identified using the integral master‐plots method.
The role of K63‐linked polyubiquitination in cardiac hypertrophy
Authors: Yan Kaowen , Ponnusamy Murugavel , Xin Ying , Wang Qi , Li Peifeng , Wang Kun 
Published: August 2018

AbstractUbiquitination, also known as ubiquitylation, is a vital post‐translational modification of proteins that play a crucial role in the multiple biological processes including cell growth, proliferation and apoptosis. K63‐linked ubiquitination is one of the vital post‐translational modifications of proteins that are involved in the activation of protein kinases and protein trafficking during cell survival and proliferation. It also contributes to the development of various disorders including cancer, neurodegeneration and cardiac hypertrophy. In this review, we summarize the role of K63‐linked ubiquitination signalling in protein kinase activation and its implications in cardiac hypertrophy. We have also provided our perspectives on therapeutically targeting K63‐linked ubiquitination in downstream effector molecules of growth factor receptors for the treatment of cardiac hypertrophy.
A polymorphism rs3746444 within the pre‐miR‐499 alters the maturation of miR‐499‐5p and its antiapoptotic function
Authors: Ding Wei , Li Mengyang , Sun Teng , Han Di , Guo Xiaoci , Chen Xiao , Wan Qinggong , Zhang Xuejuan , Wang Jianxun 
Published: August 2018

AbstractmicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non‐coding RNAs that function as post‐transcriptional regulators of cardiac development and cardiovascular diseases. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNA genes are a novel class of genetic variations in the human genome that confer the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Here, we identified a polymorphism A→G (rs3746444) in miR‐499 precursor (pre‐miR‐499) that affects the maturation of miR‐499‐5p and alters its antiapoptotic function by converting stable A‐U base pair to wobble G‐U base pair in pre‐miR‐499 secondary structure. Furthermore, our results showed that the concentrations of plasma miR‐499‐5p could be correlated with myocardial infarction (MI) and heart failure (HF) patients in comparison with control subjects and polymorphism rs3746444 in miR‐499 could influence its abundance in plasma. Finally, our results also showed that the variant of polymorphism in miR‐499 influenced the severity of the myocardial infarction significantly. This is the first report to highlight the biological significance of this polymorphism on the maturation of miR‐499‐5p and its antiapoptotic role during MI. These findings may pave a way to better understand the individual variability based on miRNA SNPs in heart diseases and may contribute to better treatment for disease severity on a personalized level.
Grab my tail: evolution of dazzle stripes and colourful tails in lizards
Authors: Murali Gopal , Merilaita Sami , Kodandaramaiah Ullasa 
Published: August 2018

AbstractUnderstanding the functions of animal coloration has been a long‐standing question in evolutionary biology. For example, the widespread occurrence of striking longitudinal stripes and colourful tails in lizards begs for an explanation. Experiments have suggested that colourful tails can deflect attacks towards the tail (the ‘deflection’ hypothesis), which is sacrificable in most lizards, thereby increasing the chance of escape. Studies also suggest that in moving lizards, longitudinal body stripes can redirect predators’ strikes towards the tail through the ‘motion dazzle’ effect. Despite these experimental studies, the ecological factors associated with the evolution of such striking colorations remain unexplored. Here, we investigated whether predictions from motion dazzle and attack deflection could explain the widespread occurrence of these striking marks using comparative methods and information on eco‐physiological variables (caudal autotomy, diel activity, microhabitat and body temperature) potentially linked to their functioning. We found both longitudinal stripes and colourful tails are associated with diurnal activity and with the ability to lose the tail. Compared to stripeless species, striped species are more likely to be ground‐dwelling and have higher body temperature, emphasizing the connection of stripes to mobility and rapid escape strategy. Colourful tails and stripes have evolved multiple times in a correlated fashion, suggesting that their functions may be linked. Overall, our results together with previous experimental studies support the notion that stripes and colourful tails in lizards may have protective functions based on deflective and motion dazzle effects.
Spinalization and locomotor training differentially affect muscarinic acetylcholine receptor type 2 abutting on α‐motoneurons innervating the ankle extensor and flexor muscles
Authors: Więckowska Angelika , Gajewska‐Woźniak Olga , Głowacka Anna , Ji Benjun , Grycz Kamil , Czarkowska‐Bauch Julita , Skup Małgorzata 
Published: August 2018

AbstractComplete thoracic spinal cord transection (SCT) impairs excitatory cholinergic inputs to ankle extensor (soleus; Sol) but not to flexor (tibialis anterior; TA) α‐motoneurons (MNs) modifiable by locomotor training applied post‐transection. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether Sol and TA MNs adapt to changes in cholinergic environment by differential regulation of their muscarinic receptors M2 (M2R). We examined Chrm2 (M2R gene) transcript level, high‐affinity 3‐quinuclidinyl benzilate‐3H ([3H]QNB) ligand binding, distribution and density of M2R immunolabeling in lumbar (L) segments in intact and SCT rats, with or without inclusion of 5‐week treadmill locomotor training. We show that at the second week after SCT the levels of Chrm2 transcript are reduced in the L3–6 segments, with [3H]QNB binding decreased selectively in the L5–6 segments, where ankle extensor MNs are predominantly located. At 5 weeks after SCT, [3H]QNB binding differences between the L3–4 and L5–6 segments are maintained, accompanied by higher density of M2R immunolabeling in the plasma membrane and cytoplasm of TA than Sol MNs and by enriched synaptic versus extrasynaptic M2R pools (52% TA vs. 25% Sol MNs). Training normalized M2R in TA MNs, improved locomotion, and reduced frequency of clonic episodes. Our findings indicate higher sensitivity of TA than Sol MNs to cholinergic signaling after SCT, which might shorten flexor twitches duration and contribute to generation of clonic movements. Synaptic enrichment in M2R density may reflect a compensatory mechanism activated in TA and Sol MNs to different extent in response to reduced strength of cholinergic signaling to each MN pool.Open PracticesOpen Science: This manuscript was awarded with the Open Materials Badge.For more information see: https://cos.io/our-services/open-science-badges/
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