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The prevalence of pyramidal cells (PCs) in the mammalian cerebral cortex underscore their value as they play a crucial role in various brain functions, ranging from cognition, sensory processing, to motor output. PC morphology significantly influences brain connectivity and plays a critical role in maintaining normal brain function. Pathological alterations to PC morphology are thought to contribute to the aetiology of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia. This review explores the relationship between abnormalities in PC morphology in key cortical areas and the clinical manifestations in schizophrenia and ASD. We focus largely on human postmortem studies and provide evidence that dendritic segment length, complexity and spine density are differentially affected in these disorders. These morphological alterations can lead to disruptions in cortical connectivity, potentially contributing to the cognitive and behavioural deficits observed in these disorders. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of investigating the functional and structural characteristics of PCs in these disorders to illuminate the underlying pathogenesis and stimulate further research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research on rechargeable aqueous Zinc(Zn)‐ion batteries has expanded exponentially. However, the performance of Zn anodes during cycling and their commercial application is restricted by severe corrosion and dendritic formation. In this study, a facile approach is presented to address these challenges by introducing minute quantities of Zr(NO3)4 into the 3 m ZnSO4 electrolyte. The Zr(NO3)4 additive facilitates the creation of a protective layer comprising spatial gradient oxidation alloy (GOA) particles. The insulating zirconium‐based materials provide the necessary potential gradient to induce the Zn plate under the covering film. As a proof of concept, the in situ GOA coating anode exhibits exceptional cycling stability for 8000 cycles and an ultralow hysteresis voltage of 41 mV at current density of 5 mA cm−2. Furthermore, Density Functional Theory analyses reveal that the GOA coating anode homogenizes the electric field surrounding the Zn anode surface providing abundant zincophilic sites for Zn nucleation compared to bare Zn plates. This ensures uniform Zn deposition, preventing dendritic growth. In addition, the in situ characterization and computation of Gibbs free energy (ΔGH*) reveal that the GOA coating anode may effectively suppress the hydrogen evolution reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freshwater fish metacommunities are best understood when considering the dendritic structure of riverine networks. The dendritic structure imposes restrictions to dispersal associated with the connectivity. Many structures restrict the movement of fish even more, such as dams and the terrain slope (dispersal costs). We investigated the influence of environmental predictors and dispersal costs on the beta diversity of freshwater fishes from the Upper Tennessee River using Generalised Dissimilarity Modelling (GDM). In addition, we tested the effects of asymmetrical dispersal costs (high costs for upstream dispersal) on the nestedness of native and non‐native fishes. Environmental predictors were more important than dispersal costs for explaining the overall fish dissimilarity in the GDM models, with the turnover capturing most of the explanation compared to the species richness difference. Dam heights were the most important dispersal cost variable in the GDM, mainly for species turnover. Overall dissimilarity of the native fish subset was better explained by environmental and dispersal variables than non‐native fish (20.03% vs. 8.41%). Considering the native species assemblage subset, dispersal cost related to maximum channel slope between pairs of sites and watercourse distance increased the nestedness of adjacent upstream–downstream sites, whereas those attributed to dams reduced the nestedness. The results support that dams increase overall dissimilarity in the native fish metacommunity of the Upper Tennessee basin, but also reduce the nestedness of adjacent sites. Our findings improve the knowledge on how mechanisms and processes associated with dispersal costs in watersheds under the effects of dams create patterns of dissimilarity and nestedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu additions notably strengthen Al-Mg-Si and Al-Si-Mg alloys due to the dense precipitation of quaternary nano precipitates during ageing. However, the chemical evolution and mechanical behaviors of the quaternary micro-scale Q constituent phase occurring in cast and homogenized states have rarely been studied. Meanwhile, there exists a type of AlCuMgSi cluster in the cast state, which has been regarded as Q particles. The accurate identification of phase constituents is the basis for the future design of alloys with better performance. In our work, this type of cluster was revealed to consist of α-Al, θ-Al2Cu, Q, and Si phases through micro-to-atomic scale studies using scanning and transmission electron microscopes. The skeleton of the dendrite was θ phase. The second phases in the dendritic eutectic cluster dissolved quickly during a 4 h homogenization at 550 °C. The Q phase was found to effectively absorb the Fe impurities during casting and homogenization. As a result, the formation of other harmful Fe-rich intermetallics was suppressed. These Q constituent particles were observed to break into separate pieces in an intermediately brittle manner when compressed in situ in a scanning electron microscope. These findings provide insights into the thermodynamic modeling of the Al-Mg-Si-Cu system and alloy design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of amniotic membranes for corneal perforations using different surgical techniques has been widely described in the literature. This case report is a novel variation in the technique that can be useful for incorporating in clinical practice when the need arises. Case Report: A 36-year-old male patient presented to our clinic with a corneal ulcer in his left eye caused by herpetic keratitis, treated with a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (indomethacin 0.1% solution). Examination revealed a paracentral 2-mm wide corneal perforation on the site of the corneal ulcer. The patient was admitted to the hospital. He was treated with intravenous piperacillin-ofloxacine, and an emergency surgical intervention using a lyophilized amniotic membrane was performed using a "plug and patch" technique. Postoperatively, the patient received 48 h of intravenous antibiotics and was discharged on topical antibiotic/corticosteroid eyedrops along with a 10-day course of oral antibiotics (ofloxacin) and antiviral therapy (valaciclovir). Three months after surgery, the anterior chamber was formed, the corneal defect was closed, and visual acuity improved. One year after initial presentation, anterior segment optical coherence tomography showed a large scarred but healed cornea. Conclusions: We report the successful use of combination of a single round-shaped rolled amniotic membrane with a multilayered amniotic membrane transplantation for the treatment of a 2-mm-wide perforated corneal ulcer. This technique allowed for preservation of the globe integrity without the need for a keratoplasty, stopped further tissue loss, and was associated with a rapid visual recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new type of carbazole-based blue-emitting dendritic conjugated polymer, poly[(9,9-dioctyl)-2,7-fluorene-co-4,4',4"-triphenylamine-co-9-(4-(9H-carbazol-9-yl)butyl)-3,6-carbazole](P), was successfully synthesized by Suzuki coupling reaction. Chemical structures of monomers and polymer were verified by FI-IR and 1HNMR characterizations. We found that polymer showed a special selectivity and high sensitivity for I−. With the addition of I−, the fluorescent polymer solution was obviously quenched. The polymer showed a special detection effect on I−. However, the fluorescent polymer was obviously restored when Hg2+ was added to the P/I− system due to the large complexation between I− and Hg2+. The anti-interference experiments of probe P/I− showed that other background cations have a slight influence on detecting Hg2+, and the calculated detection limit of Hg2+ reached 9.7 × 10−8 M, which could be a potential application for a two-channel cyclic detection of I− and Hg2+. Additionally, it was found that the theoretical values were in agreement with the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) crystalline growth of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) by atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition (APCVD) is highly sensitive to any changes in growth parameters. At an optimized growth temperature and transition metal flux, 2D compact domains grow primarily triangular/hexagonal in shape that transform into dendritic structures at higher transition metal flux. With changes in the local flux (or, local chalcogen-to-transition metal vapor ratio), domain morphologies on the substrate vary with distance for locations away from the center. In this work, phase field simulations are carried out to emulate experimentally observed morphology evolution as a function of transition metal flux. Our model demonstrates the critical roles of precursor flux and attachment time in controlling the domain morphologies which is further established by fractal dimension analysis. Evolution of patterns simulated as a function of flux and attachment time can help to identify more precise combination of growth parameters leading to a specific growth mode. Consistent with the experimental observations, the model also reproduces the interaction among multiple domains. Our findings could be useful for achieving controlled growth of 2D domains with desired shape (compact or dendritic) as required for the next-generation electronic and optoelectronic devices, and efficient catalytic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer immunoediting progresses through elimination, equilibrium, and escape. Each of these phases is characterized by breaching, remodeling, and rebuilding tissue planes and structural barriers that engage extracellular matrix (ECM) components, in particular matrix proteoglycans. Some of the signals emanating from matrix proteoglycan remodeling are readily co-opted by the growing tumor to sustain an environment of tumor-promoting and immune-suppressive inflammation. Yet other matrix-derived cues can be viewed as part of a homeostatic response by the host, aiming to eliminate the tumor and restore tissue integrity. These latter signals may be harnessed for therapeutic purposes to tip the polarity of the tumor immune milieu toward anticancer immunity. In this review, we attempt to showcase the importance and complexity of matrix proteoglycan signaling in both cancer-restraining and cancer-promoting inflammation. We propose that the era of matrix diagnostics and therapeutics for cancer is fast approaching the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dendritic cells (DCs) are antigen-presenting cells. In humans two distinct lineages of DCs exist: DC1 and DC2. Efforts to explore the role of DCs in acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) after allogeneic peripheral blood stem–cell transplantation (PBSCT) are gaining traction. However, further research is needed to identify particular lineages and their values in terms of developing an evidence-based aGVHD- or relapse-prevention strategy. We monitored DC counts and subsets in PBSC grafts while harvesting stem cells in recipients to elucidate their value in anticipating disease relapse or aGVHD. Methods: We enrolled 29 participants. Using fluorescence-activated cell sorting, total counts/kg of CD34+, DCs, and DC subsets were analyzed in 29 PBSC-graft components using CMRF44, CD11c, and CD4 monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs). Results: In the 29 grafts, we detected a significant positive correlation (P< 0.01) between DCs and both DC1 and DC2. Significantly higher counts (P< 0.01) of DCs and DC1 in those who had developed aGVHD (nine cases) were also observed. Relapsed cases (two) were also associated with higher counts of DCs and DC2. A significant positive correlation (P< 0.05), was recorded between DCs and DC1 counts and the day of myeloid engraftment, while this was not detected on the day of platelet engraftment. Myeloid engraftment transpired earlier in patients without aGVHD. Increased DC-graft numbers, particularly DC1 measured by CD11c Moabs, were associated with aGVHD. Recipients of higher numbers of CD4bright DCs had an increased risk of relapse after allogeneic PBSCT. Conclusion: This study analyzed DCs in PBSC grafts, using novel specific MoAbs and flow cytometry. Our data showed that higher donor DC1 counts were linked to the incidence of aGVHD and DC2 with relapse. We propose a fundamental role for DC-graft monitoring in anticipating aGVHD and disease relapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been shown in recent years that many species in Nature employ hierarchy and contact splitting as a strategy to enhance the adhesive properties of their attachments. Maximizing the adhesive force is however not the only goal. Many animals can achieve a tunable adhesive force, which allows them to both strongly attach to a surface and easily detach when necessary. Here, we study the adhesive properties of 3D dendritic attachments, which are structures that are widely occurring in nature and which allow to achieve these goals. These structures exploit branching to provide high variability in the geometry, and thus tunability, and contact splitting, to increase the total peeling line and thus the adhesion force. By applying the same principles presented by A.A. Griffith 100 years ago, we derive an analytical model for the detachment forces as a function of their defining angles in 3D space, finding as limit cases 2D double peeling and 1D single peeling. We also develop a numerical model, including a nonlinear elastic constitutive law, for the validation of analytical calculations, allowing additionally to simulate the entire detachment phase, and discuss how geometrical variations influence the adhesive properties of the structure. Finally, we also realize a proof of concept experiment to further validate theoretical/numerical results. Overall, we show how this generalized attachment structure can achieve large variations in its adhesive and mechanical properties, exploiting variations of its geometrical parameters, and thus tunability. The in-depth study of similar basic structural units and their combination can in future lead to a better understanding of the mechanical properties of complex architectures found in Nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An accurate diagnosis of melanocytic lesions requires a thorough histopathological evaluation accompanied by appropriate correlation with clinical examination findings. Although most melanocytic lesions can readily be classified as one of the defined diagnostic entities according to well‐established diagnostic criteria, a subset of melanocytic lesions, particularly those with blue naevus‐like (pigmented dendritic) morphology, have notoriously constituted an enduring challenge for pathologists. These lesions are rare and often show histological ambiguities, with features of both benignity and malignancy, thereby making accurate risk assessment and prediction of their biological behaviours difficult on histological grounds alone. Herein, we outline a practical and systematic approach for the diagnosis of melanocytic lesions with dendritic morphology, with a particular focus on histological and immunophenotypic features that help to distinguish one entity from another. In this review, we provide the most current knowledge on these melanocytic lesions in the literature and our experience with these rare entities, and we discuss the utility of molecular techniques as an ancillary tool, especially in histologically ambiguous and/or borderline lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anisotropic phase‐field dendritic crystal growth model is a highly nonlinear system that couples the anisotropic Allen–Cahn equation and the thermal equation together. Due to the high anisotropy and nonlinear couplings in the system, how to develop an accurate and efficient, especially a fully decoupled scheme, has always been a challenging problem. To solve the challenge, in this article, we construct a novel fully decoupled numerical scheme which is also linear, energy stable, and second‐order time accurate. The key idea to realize the full decoupling structure is to introduce an ordinary differential equation to deal with the nonlinear coupling terms satisfying the so‐called "zero‐energy‐contribution" property. This scheme is very effective and easy to implement since only a few fully decoupled elliptic equations with constant coefficients need to be solved at each time step. We rigorously prove the solvability of each step and the unconditional energy stability, and perform a large number of numerical simulations in 2D and 3D to demonstrate its stability and accuracy numerically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The highly active Ni/Cu bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) of the different molar ratios of Ni and Cu (1:1, 1:3, 3:1) assisted by dendritic ligand 2,4,6-Tris (di-4-chlorobenzamido)-1,3-diazine were synthesized successfully confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Electron Diffraction X-ray (EDX), X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis. These NPs were studied as a heterogeneous catalyst for the chemoselective oxidation of alcohol to the corresponding aldehyde at 30 min and chemoselective reduction of aromatic nitro substituents to the corresponding amino substituents at 20 min, while the Ni/Cu (3:1) NPs were found to be the most effective among other Ni/Cu (1:1) and Ni/Cu (1:3) NPs at room temperature under mild conditions. The Ni/Cu (3:1) NPs can be recycled for at least five successive runs with no perceptible decrease in catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To study morphology and treatment outcomes in serpiginous-like choroiditis (SLC).Methods: A retrospective chart review of SLC cases with ≥1-year follow-up. SLC lesions with elongated borders, thin body named dendritic (D-SLC), large lesions still with elongated borders named advanced dendritic (AD-SLC), and lesions with rounded borders, thick body called placoid (P-SLC). History, investigations, treatment response, and relapses were studied.Results: Thirty-three eyes [D-SLC (n = 14), AD-SLC (n = 13), P-SLC (n = 6)] of 24 patients were studied. Resolution on Fundus autofluorescence achieved at 8.6 months (Range: 4-12 months). 0/16 eyes treated with anti-tubercular therapy (ATT) and 4/11 eyes treated without ATT had at least one recurrence in (D-SLC + AD-SLC) group (p = .019). Mean best corrected visual acuity at final follow-up was 20/20, 20/25, and 20/60 in D-SLC, AD-SLC, and in P-SLC, respectively.Conclusion: P-SLC has poor visual prognosis compared to AD-SLC and D-SLC. ATT may prevent recurrences in D-SLC and AD-SLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on a detailed study of the hydrolysis process of tetrabutyl orthotitanate (TBOT), TiO2 nanoclusters were modified inside the pores of SiO2 core-shell particles instead of the outside. The pore size distribution of SiO2 core-shell spheres modified with TiO2 (SiO2@dSiO2@TiO2) was analyzed by Barrett-Joyner-Halenda (BJH) method and density functional theory (DFT) method, respectively. The results of the DFT calculations demonstrate that the TiO2 nanoclusters are always first formed in bulk solution and then enter the pores. By regulating the rate of hydrolysis of TBOT, almost all of the TiO2 nanoclusters are modified into the pores and the structure of the original SiO2 core-shell sphere is hardly affected. The morphology of the particles was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The crystal phase of TiO2 was measured by XRD. SiO2@dSiO2@TiO2 spheres functionalized with C18 were packed into a stainless steel column. The chemical stability of SiO2@dSiO2@TiO2 spheres under alkaline was tested by flushing of a mobile phase at pH 13 for 7 days. The efficiency of the column after the alkali solution treatment still reaches 98,430 plates m−1, which is only about 1.6% lower than that before the alkali solution treatment. A series of basic and acidic analytes were also separated on the column. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synaptic plasticity is important for learning and memory. With increasing evidence linking sleep states to changes in synaptic strength, an emerging view is that sleep promotes learning and memory by facilitating experience- induced synaptic plasticity. In this review, we summarize the recent progress on the function of sleep in regulating cortical synaptic plasticity. Specifically, we outline the electroencephalogram signatures of sleep states (e.g. slow-wave sleep, rapid eye movement sleep, spindles), sleep statedependent changes in gene and synaptic protein expression, synaptic morphology, and neuronal and network activity. We highlight studies showing that post-experience sleep potentiates experience-induced synaptic changes and discuss the potential mechanisms that may link sleep-related brain activity to synaptic structural remodelling. We conclude that both synapse formation or strengthening and elimination or weakening occur across sleep. This sleep-dependent synaptic plasticity plays an important role in neuronal circuit refinement during development and after learning, while sleep disorders may contribute to or exacerbate the development of common neurological diseases. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Memory reactivation: replaying events past, present and future'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat shock proteins (HSP) are a highly abundant class of molecular chaperones that can be released into the extracellular milieu and influence the immune response. HSP release can occur when cells undergo necrosis and exude their contents. However, HSPs are also secreted from intact cells, either in free form or in lipid vesicles including exosomes to react with receptors on adjacent cells. Target cells are able recognize extracellular HSPs through cell surface receptors. These include scavenger receptors (SR) such as class E member oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1, aka OLR1, Clec8A, and SR-E1) and scavenger receptor class F member 1 (SCARF1, aka SREC1). Both receptors are expressed by dendritic cells (DC) and macrophages. These receptors can bind HSPs coupled to client binding proteins and deliver the chaperone substrate to the pathways of antigen processing in cells. SR are able to facilitate the delivery of client proteins to the proteasome, leading to antigen processing and presentation, and stimulation of adaptive immunity. HSPs may also may be involved in innate immunity through activation of inflammatory signaling pathways in a mechanism dependent on SR and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) on DC and macrophages. We will discuss the pathways by which HSPs can facilitate uptake of protein antigens and the receptors that regulate the ensuing immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the synthesis and characterization of two novel antibacterial dendritic methacrylate-based dental monomers. For this purpose, two dendritic esters have been synthesized via condensation reaction and then reacted with methacryloyl chloride to afford methacrylate-end caped dendritic esters. These compounds are subsequently converted to quaternary ammonium fluoride monomers (QAFMs) with decyl substituted side chain to produce two novel antibacterial dendreticdental monomers. The chemical structures of synthesized samples have been characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) spectroscopies. The obtained monomers can be used to replace 2,2-bis[4-(2-hydroxy-3-methacryloyloxypropyl)-phenyl]propane (Bis-GMA) as the base monomer of universal resin-based dental composites in the presence of a diluting monomer (e.g.,triethyleneglycoldimethacrylate; TEGDMA), mainly due to their superior characteristics such as multifunctionalities as well as antibacterial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly conductive inserts improve heat removal from electronic components remarkably; however, using these inserts is associated with a side effect: the mechanical strength deterioration of the piece. In this research, based on the constructal theory, the architecture of these inserts is optimized in such a way that the lowest maximum temperature and highest mechanical strength of the disc-shaped piece are achieved. Here, three patterns for the configuration of inserts embedded in the disc are studied, namely radial, dendritic with one level of pairing and dendritic with two levels of pairing. The total amount of high-conductivity inserts material is fixed, while the geometrical parameters of the inserts like length, the bifurcating locations and the angles of bifurcations are considered as degrees of freedom. It was observed that when 16 inserts were invoked, maximum temperature and stress were minimized. Results showed that changing the structure from radial to dendritic with one bifurcation causes a decrease in the maximum temperature and stress of about 17% and 3.2%, respectively. Also, it was seen that increasing the complexity of the structure by increasing the number of bifurcations from one to two leads to 5.6% reduction and 1% increment in minimal maximum temperature and optimal maximum stress, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thick forest cover and poor infrastructures are the major hindrances for detailed lithologic mapping in an inaccessible montane landscape. To overcome these limitations, we utilize a Landsat 5 TM image to map lithology using vegetation and drainage pattern as an indicator of underlying rock types in a heavily forested region of the Chittagong Hill Tracts area located in southeastern Bangladesh. We use supervised and unsupervised classifiers for a vegetation-based approach while on-screen digitization is used for drainage patterns-based mapping. Field observations were used for mapping lithology and evaluating accuracy. Overall, our results agree well with the current geologic map and improve it by providing a more spatially detailed distribution of the sandstone and shale. The performances of all approaches are good at the inner and outer flanks of anticlines located in the study area while the drainage pattern mapping performs best at the mid-flank area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Failure of uterine vascular transformation is associated with pregnancy complications including Intra Uterine Growth Restriction (IUGR). The decidua and its immune cell populations play a key role in the earliest stages of this process. Here we investigate the hypothesis that abnormal decidualization and failure of maternal immune tolerance in the second trimester may underlie the uteroplacental pathology of IUGR. Placental bed biopsies were obtained from women undergoing elective caesarian delivery of a healthy term pregnancy, an IUGR pregnancy or a pregnancy complicated by both IUGR and preeclampsia. Decidual tissues were also collected from second trimester terminations from women with either normal or high uterine artery Doppler pulsatile index (PI). Immunohistochemical image analysis and flow cytometry were used to quantify vascular remodeling, decidual leukocytes and decidual status in cases vs. controls. Biopsies from pregnancies complicated by severe IUGR with a high uterine artery pulsatile index (PI) displayed a lack of: myometrial vascular transformation, interstitial, and endovascular extravillous trophoblast (EVT) invasion, and a lower number of maternal leukocytes. Apoptotic mural EVT were observed in association with mature dendritic cells and T cells in the IUGR samples. Second trimester pregnancies with high uterine artery PI displayed a higher incidence of small for gestational age fetuses; a skewed decidual immunology with higher numbers of; CD8 T cells, mature CD83 dendritic cells and lymphatic vessels that were packed with decidual leukocytes. The decidual stromal cells (DSCs) failed to differentiate into the large secretory DSC in these cases, remaining small and cuboidal and expressing lower levels of the nuclear progesterone receptor isoform B, and DSC markers Insulin Growth Factor Binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1) and CD10 as compared to controls. This study shows that defective progesterone mediated decidualization and a hostile maternal immune response against the invading endovascular EVT contribute to the failure of uterovascular remodeling in IUGR pregnancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The supramolecular folding of amphiphilic heterograft copolymers equipped with dendritic pendants is investigated using a combination of proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy, small‐angle X‐ray scattering, and circular dichroism spectroscopy. Hereto, the linear poly(ethylene glycol) pendants normally used to convey water compatibility are partially substituted with branched analogues. For one set of copolymers, second‐generation polyglycerol dendrons are directly attached to the polymer backbone, while for the other a hydrophilic linker is placed in between. The results show that the branching of the hydrophilic pendants affects the local structure of the folded copolymer but does not influence the overall conformation and single‐chain character of the folded copolymers in solution. All copolymers fold into 4–5 nm single‐chain polymeric nanoparticles with a very compact spherical morphology, independent of the dendritic content of the copolymer. Intriguingly, the incorporation of the dendritic pendants affects the formation of a structured interior even at low incorporation ratios. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 411–421 The supramolecular folding of amphiphilic heterograft copolymers equipped with dendritic pendants is investigated. Hereto, the linear poly(ethylene glycol) pendants normally used to convey water‐compatibility are partially substituted with branched analogues. The results show that the branching of the hydrophilic pendants affects the local structure of the folded copolymer but does not influence the overall conformation and single‐chain character of the folded copolymers in solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 34‐year‐old Japanese man presented with an indolent nodule on the right flank. Computed tomography of the chest and abdomen demonstrated a large nodule measuring 55 mm × 50 mm in the abdominal oblique muscle layer of the right flank, and several small nodules were seen in the muscle layer throughout the body and subcutaneous tissue of the lower abdomen. 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography/computed tomography revealed nodular lesions in the bilateral parotid glands, bilateral cervical lymph nodes and lower lobe of the right lung. Intermittently, ground‐glass shadows developed in the bilateral lungs. Histologically, sheet‐like nodules in the abdominal oblique muscle layer and parotid gland were composed of large polygonal cells with convoluted nuclei and ample eosinophilic cytoplasm. Several lymphocytes and considerable eosinophils were intermingled. Lung biopsy demonstrated an inflammatory infiltrate of lymphocytes and considerable eosinophils in the alveoli. Immunohistochemically, polygonal cells were positive for S100 protein and CD1a, but negative for langerin and BRAFV600E. Some cells were positive for CD68. Electron microscopy demonstrated histiocytic cells with phagosomes and interdigitating processes. However, no Birbeck granules were observed. Eosinophilia was seen in the peripheral blood. Multifocal nodules and ground‐glass shadows gradually diminished following systemic administration of oral prednisolone. We describe a case of indeterminate dendritic cell neoplasm with multifocal involvement of the muscle, subcutis, lymph node and parotid gland accompanied by chronic eosinophilic pneumonia that was successfully treated by systemic steroid therapy. Neither muscular nor parotid indeterminate dendritic cell neoplasms accompanied by eosinophilic pneumonia have been previously reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rosa damascena and Poria cocos are ingredients commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. R. damascena is used to promote blood circulation as well as liver and stomach function, while P. cocos is used to eliminate dampness and enhance spleen function. Objective: The objective of the study is to investigate possible mechanisms by which R. damascena and P. cocos may promote immune function. Materials and Methods: Phagocytosis and dendritic cell (DC) surface marker expression assays were used to evaluate the effect of R. damascena and P. cocos extracts on human THP-1 monocytic leukemia cell biology. Results: R. damascena and P. cocos extracts both enhanced phagocytosis of latex beads by THP-1 cells, and when combined, phagocytosis was enhanced to a level greater than what might be expected by adding the individual phagocytosis responses together. In addition, both extracts enhanced maturation of THP-1 cells into a DC phenotype as measured by increased surface expression of the costimulatory molecules CD14, CD40, CD80, and CD86. Conclusion: These results suggest that Rosa damascena and P. cocos may promote monocyte phagocytosis and then stimulate differentiation of the cells into DCs thereby bridging innate and adaptive immune responses. Abbreviations used: AKT: Protein kinase B; AP-1: Activator protein-1; Bcl2: B cell lymphoma-2; CD: Cluster of differentiation; COX-2: Cyclooxygenase-2; DC: Dendritic cell; EGFR: Epidermal growth factor receptor; FOXO1: Forkhead box protein-1; GM-CSF: Granulocyte/macrophage colony stimulating factor; HLA: Human leukocyte antigen; HPLC: High-performance liquid chromatography; IL-1β: Interleukin-1β; IL-4: Interleukin-4; M1: Classically activated macrophage; M2: Alternatively activated macrophage; MAPK: Mitogen-activated protein kinase; NFκB: Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells; NLRP3: NLR Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3; ϕ: Phagocytic index; p53: Tumor protein p53; PARP: Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase; PMA: Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate; PRR: Pattern recognition receptor; STAT: Signal transducer and activator of transcription SD: Standard deviation; Syk: Spleen tyrosine kinase; TCM: Traditional Chinese Medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a comprehensive approach for reverse mapping of complex polymer systems in which the connectivity is created by the simulation of chemical reactions at the coarse‐grained scale. Within the work, we use a recently developed generic adaptive reverse mapping procedure that we adapt to handle the varying connectivity structure resulting from the chemical reactions. The method is independent of the coarse‐grained and fine‐grained force‐fields by design and relies only on a single control parameter. We employ the approach to reverse map four different systems: a three‐component epoxy network, a trimethylol melamine network, a hyperbranched polymer, and a polyethylene terephthalate. In the case of the epoxy network, we use two fine‐scale representations: fully atomistic and united‐atom. Whereas the trimethylol melamine network the hyperbranched polymer and the polyethylene terephthalate are reverse mapped to the fully atomistic description. After the reverse mapping, we examine the fine‐grained structure by comparing the radial distribution functions with respect to the control parameter. Moreover, in the case of the epoxy we perform tensile‐test experiments and examine the resulting Young's modulus. In all cases, we show how the properties of the reverse mapped systems depend on the control parameters. In general, we see that the results are relatively insensitive to the control parameter and the resulting atomistic systems are stable. Only for the trimethylol melamine network, we notice chemically incorrect conformations when the reverse mapping is performed too fast. We provide a remedy for this issue. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a lethal brainstem tumor in children. Dendritic cells (DCs) have T-cell stimulatory capacity and, therefore, potential antitumor activity for disease control. DCs vaccines have been shown to reactivate tumor-specific T cells in both clinical and preclinical settings. We designed a phase Ib immunotherapy (IT) clinical trial with the use of autologous dendritic cells (ADCs) pulsed with an allogeneic tumors cell-lines lysate in patients with newly diagnosed DIPG after irradiation (radiation therapy). Methods: Nine patients with newly diagnosed DIPG met enrollment criteria. Autologous dendritic cell vaccines (ADCV) were prepared from monocytes obtained by leukapheresis. Five ADCV doses were administered intradermally during induction phase. In the absence of tumor progression, patients received three boosts of tumor lysate every 3 months during the maintenance phase. results: Vaccine fabrication was feasible in all patients included in the study. Nonspecific KLH (9/9 patients) and specific (8/9 patients) antitumor response was identified by immunologic studies in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Immunological responses were also confirmed in the T lymphocytes isolated from the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of two patients. Vaccine administration resulted safe in all patients treated with this schema. Conclusion: These preliminary results demonstrate that ADCV preparation is feasible, safe, and generate a DIPG-specific immune response detected in PBMC and CSF. This strategy shows a promising backbone for future schemas of combination IT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lentiviral vectors (LVs) developed in the past two decades for research and pre-clinical purposes have entered clinical trials with remarkable safety and efficacy performances. Development and clinical testing of LVs for improvement of human immunity showed major advantages in comparison to other viral vector systems. Robust and persisted transduction efficiency of blood cells with LVs, resulted into a broad range of target cells for immune therapeutic approaches: from hematopoietic stem cells and precursor cells for correction of immune deficiencies, up to effector lymphoid and myeloid cells. T cells engineered for expression of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) or epitope-specific transgenic T cell receptors (TCRs) are in several cancer immune therapy clinical trials worldwide. Development of engineered dendritic cells is primed for clinical trials for cancer and chronic infections. Technological adaptations for ex vivo cell manipulations are here discussed and presented based on properties and uses of the target cell. For future development of off-shelf immune therapies, direct in vivo administration of lentiviral vectors is warranted and intended. Approaches for lentiviral in vivo targeting to maximize immune therapeutic success are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Ecologists have long been interested in mechanisms governing community composition and assembly. Spatial connectivity is one potential mechanism that can have a large influence on community processes. In accordance with network metrics such as closeness and betweenness, headwater streams are more isolated than mainstem streams. Theory and observational studies predict that community structure in isolated locations of dispersal networks should respond more strongly to manipulations of local conditions, whereas well-connected communities subject to high levels of dispersal should not respond strongly to local manipulations. We experimentally investigated this prediction by manipulating habitat complexity in headwaters and mainstem streams while monitoring macroinvertebrate communities through time. As predicted, the manipulation of local habitat had a stronger influence in headwaters than mainstreams. Both taxon richness and community similarity showed strong responses to alterations in habitat complexity in headwaters, but not in mainstem streams. These findings support the hypothesis that location within a dispersal network affects the relative importance of local and regional factors in structuring the local communities within a spatially structured metacommunity. In addition, our results suggest that conservation strategies need to account for the possibility that the relative importance of local and regional drivers of community composition and assembly can vary spatially. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the process-structure-property relationships for 316L stainless steel prototyping utilizing 3-D laser engineered net shaping (LENS), a commercial direct energy deposition additive manufacturing process. The study concluded that the resultant physical metallurgy of 3-D LENS 316L prototypes is dictated by the interactive metallurgical reactions, during instantaneous powder feeding/melting, molten metal flow and liquid metal solidification. The study also showed 3-D LENS manufacturing is capable of building high strength and ductile 316L prototypes due to its fine cellular spacing from fast solidification cooling, and the well-fused epitaxial interfaces at metal flow trails and interpass boundaries. However, without further LENS process control and optimization, the deposits are vulnerable to localized hardness variation attributed to heterogeneous microstructure, i.e., the interpass heat-affected zone (HAZ) from repetitive thermal heating during successive layer depositions. Most significantly, the current deposits exhibit anisotropic tensile behavior, i.e., lower strain and/or premature interpass delamination parallel to build direction (axial). This anisotropic behavior is attributed to the presence of interpass HAZ, which coexists with flying feedstock inclusions and porosity from incomplete molten metal fusion. The current observations and findings contribute to the scientific basis for future process control and optimization necessary for material property control and defect mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using microarray analysis, we detected microRNA-124 (miR-124) to be abundantly expressed in the olfactory bulb (OB). miR-124 regulates adult neurogenesis in the subventricular zone (SVZ). However, much less is known about its role in newborn OB neurons. Here, using both gain-of-function and loss-of-function approaches, we demonstrate that brain-specific miR-124 affects dendritic morphogenesis and spine density in newborn OB neurons. Functional Annotation Clustering of miR-124 targets was enriched in 'cell morphogenesis involved in neuron differentiation.' [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY QUESTION: Could seminal plasma clusterin play a role in the uptake of stress-damaged proteins by dendritic cells? SUMMARY ANSWER: Seminal plasma clusterin, but not serum clusterin, promotes the uptake of stress-damaged proteins by dendritic cells via DC-SIGN. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Clusterin is one of the major extracellular chaperones. It interacts with a variety of stressed proteins to prevent their aggregation, guiding them for receptor-mediated endocytosis and intracellular degradation. The concentration of clusterin in semen is almost 20-fold higher than that found in serum, raising the question about the role of seminal plasma clusterin in reproduction. No previous studies have analyzed whether seminal plasma clusterin has chaperone activity. We have previously shown that seminal plasma clusterin, but not serum clusterin, expresses an extreme abundance of fucosylated glycans. These motifs enable seminal plasma clusterin to bind DC-SIGN with very high affinity. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: In vitro experiments were performed to evaluate the ability of seminal plasma clusterin to inhibit the precipitation of stressed proteins, promoting their uptake by dendritic cells via DC-SIGN (a C-typelectin receptor selectively expressed on dendritic cells (DC)). Moreover, the ability of seminal plasma clusterin to modulate the phenotype and function of DCs was also assessed. participants/materials, setting, methods: Clusterin was purified from human semen and human serum. Catalase, bovine serum albumin, glutathione S-transferase, and normal human serum were stressed and the ability of seminal plasma clusterin to prevent the precipitation of these proteins, guiding them to DC-SIGN expressed by DCs, was evaluated using a fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS). Endocytosis of stressed proteins was analyzed by confocal microscopy and the ability of seminal plasma clusterin-treated DCs to stimulate the proliferation of CD25 + FOXP3 + CD4+ T cells was also evaluated by FACS. MAIN results and the role of chance: Seminal plasma clusterin interacts with stressed proteins, inhibits their aggregation (P < 0.01 ) and efficiently targets them to dendritic cells via DC-SIGN (P < 0.01 ). DCs efficiently endocytosed clusterin-client complexes and sorted them to degradative compartments involved in antigen processing and presentation. Moreover, we also found that the interaction of seminal plasma clusterin with DC-SIGN did not change the phenotype of DCs, but stimulates their ability to induce the expansion of CD25 + FOXP3 + CD4+ T lymphocytes (P < 0.05 versus control). limitations, reasons for caution: All the experiments were performed in vitro; hence the relevance of our observations should be validated in vivo. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: Our results suggest that by inducing the endocytosis of stress-damaged proteins by DCs via DC-SIGN, seminal plasma clusterin might promote a tolerogenic response to male antigens, thereby contributing to female tolerance to seminal antigens. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): The present research was supported by the Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, the Buenos Aires University School of Medicine, and the Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica (Argentina). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY QUESTION: Could seminal plasma clusterin play a role in the uptake of stress-damaged proteins by dendritic cells? SUMMARY ANSWER: Seminal plasma clusterin, but not serum clusterin, promotes the uptake of stress-damaged proteins by dendritic cells via DC-SIGN. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Clusterin is one of the major extracellular chaperones. It interacts with a variety of stressed proteins to prevent their aggregation, guiding them for receptor-mediated endocytosis and intracellular degradation. The concentration of clusterin in semen is almost 20-fold higher than that found in serum, raising the question about the role of seminal plasma clusterin in reproduction. No previous studies have analyzed whether seminal plasma clusterin has chaperone activity. We have previously shown that seminal plasma clusterin, but not serum clusterin, expresses an extreme abundance of fucosylated glycans. These motifs enable seminal plasma clusterin to bind DC-SIGN with very high affinity. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: In vitro experiments were performed to evaluate the ability of seminal plasma clusterin to inhibit the precipitation of stressed proteins, promoting their uptake by dendritic cells via DC-SIGN (a C-typelectin receptor selectively expressed on dendritic cells (DC)). Moreover, the ability of seminal plasma clusterin to modulate the phenotype and function of DCs was also assessed. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: Clusterin was purified from human semen and human serum. Catalase, bovine serum albumin, glutathione S-transferase, and normal human serum were stressed and the ability of seminal plasma clusterin to prevent the precipitation of these proteins, guiding them to DC-SIGN expressed by DCs, was evaluated using a fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS). Endocytosis of stressed proteins was analyzed by confocal microscopy and the ability of seminal plasma clusterin-treated DCs to stimulate the proliferation of CD25 + FOXP3 + CD4+ T cells was also evaluated by FACS. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: Seminal plasma clusterin interacts with stressed proteins, inhibits their aggregation (P < 0.01) and efficiently targets them to dendritic cells via DC-SIGN (P < 0.01). DCs efficiently endocytosed clusterin-client complexes and sorted them to degradative compartments involved in antigen processing and presentation. Moreover, we also found that the interaction of seminal plasma clusterin with DC-SIGN did not change the phenotype of DCs, but stimulates their ability to induce the expansion of CD25 + FOXP3 + CD4+ T lymphocytes (P < 0.05 versus control). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: All the experiments were performed in vitro; hence the relevance of our observations should be validated in vivo. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: Our results suggest that by inducing the endocytosis of stress-damaged proteins by DCs via DC-SIGN, seminal plasma clusterin might promote a tolerogenic response to male antigens, thereby contributing to female tolerance to seminal antigens. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): The present research was supported by the Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, the Buenos Aires University School of Medicine, and the Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y Tecnológica (Argentina). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barriers within streams can affect riverine species' ability to access habitats and may reduce their population viability. Connectivity metrics attempt to quantify the impacts of barriers; however, little is known about their functioning when applied to dendritic habitats such as watersheds. Several graph-theoretic connectivity metrics were calculated on rivers originating in the Luquillo Mountains of Puerto Rico. These metrics were classified into two primary groups: metrics that count weighted paths through the stream network and metrics that predict the flow of organisms through a stream reach. Representative metrics from each of these categories were suggested to model the effects of dams and water intakes, respectively. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm is an uncommon malignancy derived from precursors of plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Nearly all patients present initially with cutaneous manifestations, with many having extracutaneous disease additionally. While response to chemotherapy initially is effective, relapse occurs in most, with a leukemic phase ultimately developing. The prognosis is dismal. While most of the clinical and pathologic features are well described, the association and possible prognostic significance between peripheral blood absolute monocytosis (>1.0 K/μL) and blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm have not been reported. We report a case of a 68-year-old man who presented with a rash for 4-5 months. On physical examination, there were multiple, dull-pink, indurated plaques on the trunk and extremities. Complete blood count revealed thrombocytopenia, absolute monocytosis of 1.7 K/μL, and a negative flow cytometry study. Biopsy of an abdominal lesion revealed typical features of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm. Patients having both hematologic and nonhematologic malignancies have an increased incidence of absolute monocytosis. Recent studies examining Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients have suggested that this is a negative prognostic factor. The association between blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm and absolute monocytosis has not been described and may, in fact, have prognostic value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Novel thermosensitive dendritic copolymer based on polyethylene glycol (PEG) and poly( N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAm) with a cloud point (CP) around 36 °C was successfully synthesized by preparation of a dendritic polyol and followed by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of N-isopropylacrylamide. The dendritic copolymer was characterized using gel-permeation chromatography (GPC), FTIR and H-NMR spectroscopy. The self-association behavior of the copolymer in aqueous medium was investigated by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). These investigations confirmed that the dendritic copolymer showed different association behaviors at various temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olivine textures are potentially important recorders of olivine origin and crystallization conditions. Primary magmatic and xenocrystic origins are commonly considered for olivine from ultramafic to intermediate magmas, whereas secondary olivine origins (i.e. crystals formed by recrystallization or peritectic reaction) are rarely considered in the interpretation of magmatic phenocrysts. The main aim of our study was to determine textures that are characteristic for secondary magmatic olivine and non-characteristic, or at least rare, for primary magmatic olivine. To characterize the textures of the different olivine types, we review previous experimental work and present new textural data for olivine from four melanorite melting and eight basalt crystallization experiments. We qualitatively characterize olivine textures using transmitted light and back-scattered electron microscopy, and semi-quantitatively characterize the 2D surface area of olivine branches and single crystals, their 2D and calculated 3D shapes, and 2D grain boundary segment lengths. Olivine recrystallization yields crystals with dendritic branches, whereas peritectic reaction produces olivine clusters with randomly oriented crystals. In agreement with previous studies, we find that olivine crystal and branch size, grain boundary segmentation, and inclusion relations cannot unequivocally distinguish between olivine of secondary and primary origins. However, recrystallized olivine typically has short prismatic branches, whereas primary magmatic olivine dendrites commonly have elongated branches. The peritectic crystals are closely comparable with glomerocrysts and single polyhedral primary magmatic crystals, but they commonly form small groups of touching crystals and clusters with crystal-poor cores. Spatial association and a comparison with xenocryst textures may further guide the interpretation of their origin, but detailed analyses of core compositions and zoning patterns appear necessary to firmly distinguish peritectic from primary magmatic crystals. Our comparison of experimental and natural samples suggests that dendritic olivine crystals and clusters of polyhedral olivine that commonly occur in mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks should be evaluated for possible primary as well as secondary magmatic origins. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The leaf venation of angiosperms is key to their terrestirial dominance. These higher land plants include maple, corn, and ISS model organism Arabidopsis thaliana. The venation-dependent photosynthetic capacity of angiosperm leaves is largely responsible for terrestrial production of glucose and atmospheric oxygen, and may be fundamentally important to long-term space colonization. Leaf studies in orbit, where human-tended experiments are limited, can be enhanced by quantifying complex venation patterning. VESsel GENeration Analysis (VESGEN), a beta-level NASA software that analyzes vertebrate and human vascular branching for biomedical applications, is therefore being modified to map the branching venation patterns of dicot angiosperm leaves. By physiological branching rules, VESGEN decomposes a continuously connected vascular tree into its structural (dendritic) branching and reticulate (networked) capillary components. For an arabidopsis juvenile leaf flown on NASA Space Shuttle Mission (STS)-130, the venation patterning of larger structural vessel orders 1°-2° remained relatively constant compared to normal gravity (by vessel number density Nv, 1.24E-5/micron², and 1.29E- 5/micron², respectively). However, as a measure of increased venation maturity, Nv of smaller reticulate orders ≥ 3° increased considerably from 7.7E-6/micron² in ground control to 1.74E- 5/micron² in the STS-130 leaf. Vascular geometric complexity is another feature of plant development that is governed in part by changes in gene expression patterns responding to environmental influence. We therefore propose that the mapping of leaf venation patterns by VESGEN can provide additional insight into plant responses to the spaceflight environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendritic fibromyxolipoma ( DFML), a rare, recently described distinct benign soft tissue tumor, has many clinicopathological features reminiscent of spindle cell lipoma and solitary fibrous tumor with myxoid change. It is distinguished histologically from both entities by the presence of spindle and stellate cells with dendritic cytoplasmic prolongations, prominent myxoid stroma with abundant keloidal collagen and occasional small plexiform vascular proliferation. We describe a case of histologically confirmed DFML of the left shoulder in a 67-year-old male, in which subsequent cytogenetic analysis revealed deletion involving 13q14.3 region in all the tumor cells, typically detected in spindle cell lipoma. In the presence of many clinicopathological similarities between DFML and spindle cell lipoma including chromosomal abnormalities, we postulate that DFML is merely a rare variant of spindle cell lipoma with extensive myxoid degeneration, and may not be considered as a separate entity. The possible differential diagnosis and their distinguishing features are briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) have been found to be accumulated in synovial tissues in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Since pDCs originate from bone marrow (BM), we explored the differentiation of pDC in BM in RA and osteoarthritis (OA). Methods. BM mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) of the posterior ileac crest from 25 RA patients and 22 OA patients were examined for the expression of BDCA2 and CD34 by flow cytometry. The degree of synovial proliferation was assessed on light microscopy in 10 of 25 RA patients. Results. There were no significant differences in percentages of CD34 + cells or BDCA2 + cells within BMMNC between RA and OA. However, RA BMMNC contained higher percentages of BDCA2 + CD34 + cells (pre-pDCs) than OA BMMNCs. Accordingly, percentages of BDCA2 + CD34+ cells within BM CD34 + cells were significantly higher in RA than in OA. Finally, the percentages of BDCA2 + CD34+ cells within BM CD34 + cells were significantly correlated with the degree of synovial proliferation in RA. Conclusion. These results indicate that the generation of pre-pDC from BM CD34 + cells is increased in RA compared with OA. Moreover, the data suggest that the increased output of pDC from BM might be involved in the synovial proliferation in RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments involving sodium chloride precipitation on inclined non-porous surfaces above evaporating brine have shown that salt crystals form a conduit which can wick electrolyte to higher elevations. The extent of the salt precipitate on an inclined surface is controlled by the availability of source brine and the relativity humidity of the air, maintaining a partially fluid connection between the non-porous surface and salt precipitate. These observations may shed light on how salt is able to migrate through completely unsaturated soils without the prior assistance or addition of interstitial pore water. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Novel dendritic compounds G1.5(OH)4 and G1.5(OH)8 with peripheral hydroxyl were synthesized under mild conditions from cyanuric chloride, ethylene diamine, ethanolamine and diethanolamine. The products could be separated and purified through dispersion and precipitation in organic solvents with good yields (over 93.0%) and high purity (above 98.0%, HPLC). The structures of the products were characterized by IR, MS, 1 H NMR and elementary analysis. G1.5(OH)4 and G1.5(OH)8 could be dissolved in polar solvents such as methanol, water and dimethylsulfoxide. TGA analysis showed that G1.5(OH)4 and G1.5(OH)8 had good thermo stability. The aqueous solutions of G1.5(OH)4 and G1.5(OH)8 exhibited low surface tension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostaglandins are lipid-derived molecules that mediate the generation of fever in the central nervous system. In addition to their proinflammatory role, prostaglandins also impact neuronal development and synaptic plasticity, sometimes in a sex-specific manner. The cerebellum has a high expression of prostaglandin receptors during development, but the role that these molecules play during normal cerebellar maturation is unknown. We demonstrate here that disrupting prostaglandin synthesis with cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors during a time-sensitive window in early postnatal life alters cerebellar Purkinje cell development in rats, resulting in initially increased dendritic growth in both sexes. We show that this results in later cerebellar atrophy in males only, resulting in a sex-specific loss of cerebellar volume. Further, although performance in motor tasks is spared, social interaction and the sensory threshold are altered in males developmentally exposed to cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors. This work demonstrates a previously unknown role for prostaglandins in cerebellar development and emphasizes the role that the cerebellum plays outside motor tasks, in cognitive and sensory domains that may help to explain its connection to complex neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of solid solution treatment on semisolid microstructure of Zn-22Al with developed dendrites was investigated. Zn-22Al is a zinc-based alloy with aluminium as its main alloying element. Producing Zn-22Al product by semisolid metal processing (SSM) offers significant advantages, such as reduction of macrosegregations, porosity and low forming efforts. Meanwhile, thermal and microstructure analyses of Zn-22Al alloy were studied using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and Olympus optical microscope. Solidus and liquidus of the alloy can be determined by DSC analysis. In addition, changes to the microstructures in response to solid solution treatments were also analyzed. The major effort of all the semi-solid technologies is the generation of small and spherical morphologies. Prior to the generation of spherical morphologies, the fine grains should be first produced. The as-cast samples were isothermally held at 315°C, ranging from 0.5 to 5 hours before they were partially re-melted at semisolid temperature of 438°C to produce solid globular grains structure in liquid matrix. The results indicated that a non-dendritic semisolid microstructure could not be obtained if the traditionally cast Zn-22Al alloy with developed dendrites was directly subjected to partial remelting. After solid solution treatment at 315°C, the black interdendritic eutectics were dissolved and gradually transformed into β structure when the treatment time was increased. The microstructure of the solid solution treated sample changed into a small globular structure with the best shape factor of 0.9 and this corresponded to 40±16µm when the sample was treated for 3 hours, followed by directly partial remelting into its semi solid zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exact role of engineered nanomaterials in immune system modulation remains unclear. The aim of this concise review is to give a comprehensive insight into recent published scientific data concerning the modulation of innate and adaptive immune responses by engineered nanoparticles, and to provide a basis for future experimental work related to designing safer, and more efficient biomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendrigraft polymers have a multi-level branched architecture resulting from the covalent assembly of macromolecular building blocks. Most of these materials are obtained in divergent (core-first) synthetic procedures whereby the molecule grows outwards in successive grafting reactions or generations. Two main types of dendrigraft polymers can be identified depending on the distribution of reactive sites over the grafting substrate: Arborescent polymers have a large and variable number of more or less uniformly distributed sites, while dendrimer-like star polymers have a lower but well-defined number of grafting sites strictly located at the ends of the substrate chains. An overview of the synthesis and the characterization of dendrigraft copolymers with phase-segregated morphologies is provided in this review for both dendrigraft polymer families. The tethering of side-chains with a different composition onto branched substrates confers unusual physical properties to these copolymers, which are highlighted through selected examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]