bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crowding, attention and consciousness: In support of the inference hypothesis
Authors: Taylor Henry , Sayim Bilge
Published: January 2018

One of the most important topics in current work on consciousness is what relationship it has to attention. Recently, one of the focuses of this debate has been on the phenomenon of identity crowding. Ned Block has claimed that identity crowding involves conscious perception of an object that we are unable to pay attention to. In this article, we draw upon a range of empirical findings to argue against Block's interpretation of the data. We also argue that current empirical evidence strongly supports an interpretation of the data that emphasises cognitive inference over conscious perception.
Coccidioidomycosis: Imported and possible domestic cases in China: A case report and review, 1958‐2017
Authors: Liang Guanzhao , Shen Yongnian , Lv Guixia , Zheng Hailin , Mei Huan , Zheng Xiaoli , Kong Xue , Blechert Oliver , Li Dongmei , Liu Weida
Published: January 2018

We report a case of imported pulmonary coccidioidomycosis caused by Coccidioides posadasii in a patient who was misdiagnosed as tuberculosis and mistreated with antituberculosis medications for 18 months. The symptoms were not relieved until antifungal treatment was started. An extensive review of the coccidioidomycosis cases occurring in China reveals 38 cases, 16 of which had no associated history of travel to any traditional endemic areas. We speculate that some factors may drive Coccidioides spp. transference to China, which then causes those domestic infections. Moreover, we indicate the first, to the best of our knowledge, possible endemic areas in China.
Salivary proteomics in lichen planus: A relationship with pathogenesis?
Authors: Souza MM , Florezi GP , Nico MMS , de Paula F , Paula FM , Lourenço SV
Published: January 2018

Objectives

Oral lichen planus is a chronic, T‐cell‐mediated, inflammatory disease that affects the oral cavity. The oral lichen planus pathogenesis is still unclear, however, the main evidence is that the mechanisms of activation of different T lymphocyte pathway induce apoptosis with an increase in Th1 and Th17 subtypes cells, triggered by the release of cytokines. This study analysed saliva proteomics to identify protein markers that might be involved in the pathogenesis and development of the disease.

Material and Methods

Proteins differentially expressed by oral lichen planus and healthy controls were screened using mass spectrometry; the proteins found in oral lichen planus were subjected to bioinformatics analysis, including gene ontology and string networks analysis. The multiplex analysis validation allowed the correlation between the proteins identified and the involved cytokines in Th17 response.

Results

One hundred and eight proteins were identified in oral lichen planus, of which 17 proteins showed a high interaction between them and indicated an association with the disease. Expression of these proteins was correlated with the triggering of cytokines, more specifically the Th17 cells.

Conclusion

Proteins, such as S100A8, S100A9, haptoglobin, can trigger cytokines and might be associated with a pathological function and antioxidant activities in oral lichen planus.
Exogenous hydrogen sulfide inhibits oral mucosal wound‐induced macrophage activation via the NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Zhuang R , Guo L , Du J , Wang S , Li J , Liu Y
Published: January 2018

Objective

This study includes exploring (i) the production of endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) after mucosal wound generation and (ii) the role of compensating the change in H2S level postmucosal wound generation.

Methods and Materials

A mucosal wound model was established in female C57BL/6J mice. Wound tissues were collected to examine the change in the endogenous H2S level. To examine the effect of decreased H2S, GYY4137 was intraperitoneally injected into mice at 50 mg kg−1 day−1 before mucosal wounding to compensate for the decreased endogenous H2S. Finally, we confirmed the role of GYY4137 in inhibiting the M1 phenotype macrophage activation induced by LPS in peritoneal macrophages and RAW264.7.

Results

The production of endogenous H2S and the expression of cystathionine b‐synthase and cystathionine g‐lyase in vivo were reduced significantly in early stage after wound. GYY4137 significantly inhibited the activation of the M1 phenotype induced by mucosal wound inflammation in vivo and LPS in vitro. Finally, we confirmed that GYY4137 inhibited iNOS expression via the NF‐κB signaling pathway.

Conclusion

The exogenous H2S donor GYY4137 compensated for the reduced endogenous H2S postmucosal wound generation and inhibited the induced M1 macrophage activation. Thus, appropriate H2S supplementation may aid in controlling inflammation associated with mucosal wounds.
Critical factors driving aphanomyces damping‐off and root disease in clover revealed and explained using linear and generalized linear models and boosted regression trees
Authors: You M. P. , Rensing K. , Renton M. , Barbetti M. J.
Published: January 2018

Subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) is an important forage legume in Mediterranean regions worldwide. Aphanomyces damping‐off and root disease (Aphanomyces trifolii) poses significant threat to its persistence and productivity. Studies were conducted to define how environmental explanatory variables (temperature, soil type, moisture, nutrition) and variety influence disease severity and consequent forage productivity and persistence. Relationships were modelled using linear and generalized linear models and boosted regression trees. Linear modelling highlighted complex relationships between environmental variables and each dependent variable (emergence, tap and lateral root disease, dry shoot and root weight). All environmental variables produced significant interaction and/or main effects within each dependent variable. Boosted regression trees supported the complex nature of relationships in linear models, with temperature and either soil or variety most, and nutrition least, influential. Heat maps showed more disease for low temperatures. Least tap root disease was under high temperatures, while least lateral root disease was under medium or high temperatures, low moisture, and in sand‐based soil. These are the first studies using modelling approaches to reveal the complexities of how fluctuating soil temperature, moisture and nutrition conditions, and soil type and variety, determine aphanomyces damping‐off and root disease severity and resultant adverse impacts on forage legume productivity and persistence. Outcomes are widely applicable across soilborne oomycete pathogens of forage legumes. Studies highlighted how warming temperatures and drying climate associated with climate change should reduce future impact and importance of this and other soilborne oomycete diseases of forage legumes favoured by cold temperatures and wet and waterlogged conditions.
Reducing intra‐abdominal pressure in peritoneal dialysis patients to avoid transient hemodialysis
Authors: Jegatheswaran Januvi , Warren Jeffrey , Zimmerman Deborah
Published: January 2018

Patients treated with peritoneal dialysis (PD) are often required to switch to hemodialysis (HD) temporarily when they develop abdominal wall hernias and dialysate leaks, peritonitis or undergo thoracic or abdominal surgeries. There are significant risks associated with incident hemodialysis including possible central venous catheter infections, thrombosis, and need for invasive procedures. Therefore, strategies to avoid temporary transfer to hemodialysis are desirable. The increased intra‐abdominal pressure associated with PD is largely responsible for the issues requiring withholding PD. However, the high intra‐abdominal pressure, due to dialysate and body position, can be minimized by making changes to the peritoneal dialysis prescription. The lower intra‐abdominal pressure may allow dialysate leaks, hernia repairs, and abdominal incisions time to heal as well as to facilitate earlier resumption of PD after catheter replacement. These strategies help to decrease morbidity and minimize cost to the health care system associated with modality switches and its complications.
Editors’ Introduction: Cognitive Modeling at ICCM: Advancing the State of the Art
Authors: Kennedy William G. , van Vugt Marieke K. , Banks Adrian P.
Published: January 2018

Cognitive modeling is the effort to understand the mind by implementing theories of the mind in computer code, producing measures comparable to human behavior and mental activity. The community of cognitive modelers has traditionally met twice every 3 years at the International Conference on Cognitive Modeling (ICCM). In this special issue of topiCS, we present the best papers from the ICCM meeting. (The full proceedings are available on the ICCM website.) These best papers represent advances in the state of the art in cognitive modeling. Since ICCM was for the first time also held jointly with the Society for Mathematical Psychology, we use this preface to also reflect on the similarities and differences between mathematical psychology and cognitive modeling.
Rapid and dynamic arginylation of the leading edge β‐actin is required for cell migration
Authors: Pavlyk Iuliia , Leu Nicolae A. , Vedula Pavan , Kurosaka Satoshi , Kashina Anna
Published: January 2018

β‐actin plays key roles in cell migration. Our previous work demonstrated that β‐actin in migratory non‐muscle cells is N‐terminally arginylated and that this arginylation is required for normal lamellipodia extension. Here, we examined the function of β‐actin arginylation in cell migration. We found that arginylated β‐actin is concentrated at the leading edge of lamellipodia and that this enrichment is abolished after serum starvation as well as in contact‐inhibited cells in confluent cultures, suggesting that arginylated β‐actin at the cell leading edge is coupled to active migration. Arginylated actin levels exhibit dynamic changes in response to cell stimuli, lowered after serum starvation and dramatically elevating within minutes after cell stimulation by readdition of serum or lysophosphatidic acid. These dynamic changes require active translation and are not seen in confluent contact‐inhibited cell cultures. Microinjection of arginylated actin antibodies into cells severely and specifically inhibits their migration rates. Together, these data strongly suggest that arginylation of β‐actin is a tightly regulated dynamic process that occurs at the leading edge of locomoting cells in response to stimuli and is integral to the signaling network that regulates cell migration.
Clinical therapeutic efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil in the treatment of SARDS in dogs—a prospective open‐label pilot study
Authors: Young Whitney M. , Oh Annie , Williams Jonathan G. , Foster Melanie L. , Miller William W. , Lunn Katharine F. , Mowat Freya M.
Published: January 2018

Objective

Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) is a leading cause of irreversible blindness in dogs, yet no treatment has been objectively evaluated, or proven to be effective. Consensus of opinion is that SARDS is immune‐mediated, although corticosteroid medications may exacerbate associated systemic signs. We examined the effect of sole‐agent treatment with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), a potent immunosuppressive medication unlikely to exacerbate associated systemic signs.

Animals studied

Ten client‐owned dogs with SARDS prospectively recruited within 6 weeks of vision loss.

Procedures

Clinical history, findings of systemic and ophthalmic examinations, blood parameters, visual navigation ability, electroretinography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were collected at baseline and at recheck after approximately 6 weeks of treatment with 10 mg/kg q 12 h of oral MMF.

Results

Twenty percent of dogs (2/10) experienced side effects (diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy), which resolved with reduction in dose to 8 mg/kg q12 h. No significant changes in systemic signs, physical examination findings, or laboratory test results were detected at the recheck examination. Compared with baseline, visual ability significantly declined at the recheck examination, and the amplitude of a slow‐onset negative waveform noted on dark‐adapted electroretinography was reduced at the recheck examination. The outer retinal layers were significantly thinner at the recheck examination as measured by OCT.

Conclusions

Mycophenolate mofetil as a sole agent has no measureable positive effect on physical health, vision, or retinal structure following a 6‐week trial period. Further studies are needed to evaluate other treatment options for SARDS.
Cointegration Analysis among the Variables of the Ohlson Model for Brazilian Companies
Authors: De Araújo Júlio Pereira , De Oliveira Macedo Marcos Roberto Gois
Published: January 2018

We examine whether there is a long-term equilibrium relation between the companies market value and the variables accounting book value and abnormal earnings based on the Ohlson model (1995) using a cointegration approach. Our panel cointegration analysis indicates that the variables cointegrate when using the whole sample, the most liquid companies group and for all sectors in at least one of the tests performed with exception of the Telecommunications sector, which presented no cointegration in both tests. The time series cointegration results have shown that, except for one company, for all the remaining the variables cointegrated. Therefore, the Ohlson Model (1995) is relevant for the evaluation of Brazilian listed companies in a long-term equilibrium. In addition, we provide evidence that abnormal earnings have limited explanatory power compared to book value.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Endophyte
Bacillus mycoides
Strain GM6LP Isolated from
Lolium perenne
Authors: Wemheuer Franziska , Hollensteiner Jacqueline , Poehlein Anja , Liesegang Heiko , Daniel Rolf , Wemheuer Bernd
Published: January 2018

Bacillus mycoides
GM6LP is an endophyte isolated from plant tissues of
Lolium perenne
L. Here, we report its draft genome sequence (6.2 Mb), which contains 96 contigs and 6,129 protein-coding genes. Knowledge about its genome will enable us to evaluate the potential use of GM6LP as a plant growth-promoting bacterium.
Whole-Genome Sequences and Annotation of the Opportunistic Pathogen
Candida albicans
Strain SC5314 Grown under Two Different Environmental Conditions
Authors: Bartelli Thais Fernanda , Bruno Danielle do Carmo Ferreira , Briones Marcelo R. S.
Published: January 2018

The genetic variability of the opportunistic pathogen
Candida albicans
is an important adaptive mechanism. Here, we present the whole-genome sequences of the
C. albicans
SC5314 strain under two different growth conditions, providing useful information for comparative genomic studies and further intraspecific analysis.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Lysinibacillus fusiformis
Strain Juneja, a Laboratory-Derived Pathogen of
Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Smith Brittny R. , Unckless Robert L.
Published: January 2018

Drosophila melanogaster
is a model for the study of innate immunity, yet we have limited knowledge of its natural pathogens. In this study, we sequenced the genome of
Lysinibacillus fusiformis
strain Juneja, isolated from laboratory fly stocks. As a Gram-positive bacterium with unique peptidoglycans, this strain may provide a new model for pathogen recognition.
Genome Sequence of
Hydrogenovibrio
sp. Strain SC-1, a Chemolithoautotrophic Sulfur and Iron Oxidizer
Authors: Neely Christopher , Bou Khalil Charbel , Cervantes Alex , Diaz Raquel , Escobar Angelica , Ho Karen , Hoefler Stephen , Smith Hillary H. , Abuyen Karla , Savalia Pratixaben , Nealson Kenneth H. , Emerson David , Tully Benjamin , Barco Roman A. , Amend Jan
Published: January 2018

Hydrogenovibrio
sp. strain SC-1 was isolated from pyrrhotite incubated
in situ
in the marine surface sediment of Catalina Island, CA. Strain SC-1 has demonstrated autotrophic growth through the oxidation of thiosulfate and iron. Here, we present the 2.45-Mb genome sequence of SC-1, which contains 2,262 protein-coding genes.
Natural and Vaccine-Induced Acquisition of Cross-Reactive IgG-Inhibiting ICAM-1-Specific Binding of a Plasmodium falciparum PfEMP1 Subtype Associated Specifically with Cerebral Malaria
Authors: Olsen Rebecca W. , Ecklu-Mensah Gertrude , Bengtsson Anja , Ofori Michael F. , Lusingu John P. A. , Castberg Filip C. , Hviid Lars , Adams Yvonne , Jensen Anja T. R.
Published: January 2018

Cerebral malaria (CM) is a potentially deadly outcome of
Plasmodium falciparum
malaria that is precipitated by sequestration of infected erythrocytes (IEs) in the brain. The adhesion of IEs to brain endothelial cells is mediated by a subtype of parasite-encoded erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1) that facilitates dual binding to host intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) and endothelial protein receptor C (EPCR). The PfEMP1 subtype is characterized by the presence of a particular motif (DBLβ_motif) in the constituent ICAM-1-binding DBLβ domain. The rate of natural acquisition of DBLβ_motif-specific IgG antibodies and the ability to induce such antibodies by vaccination are unknown, and the aim of this study was to provide such data. We used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to measure DBLβ-specific IgG in plasma from Ghanaian children with malaria. The ability of human immune plasma and DBLβ-specific rat antisera to inhibit the interaction between ICAM-1 and DBLβ was assessed using ELISA and
in vitro
assays of IE adhesion under flow. The acquisition of DBLβ_motif-specific IgG coincided with age-specific susceptibility to CM. Broadly cross-reactive antibodies inhibiting the interaction between ICAM-1 and DBLβ_motif domains were detectable in immune plasma and in sera of rats immunized with specific DBLβ_motif antigens. Importantly, antibodies against the DBLβ_motif inhibited ICAM-1-specific
in vitro
adhesion of erythrocytes infected by four of five
P. falciparum
isolates from cerebral malaria patients. We conclude that natural exposure to
P. falciparum
as well as immunization with specific DBLβ_motif antigens can induce cross-reactive antibodies that inhibit the interaction between ICAM-1 and a broad range of DBLβ_motif domains. These findings raise hope that a vaccine designed specifically to prevent CM is feasible.
Variations of dietary intake by glycemic status and Hispanic/Latino heritage in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL)
Authors: Casagrande Sarah S , Sotres-Alvarez Daniela , Avilés-Santa Larissa , O’Brien Matthew J , Palacios Cristina , Pérez Cynthia M , Reina Samantha A , Wang Xueyin , Qi Qibin , Giachello Aida L , Espinoza Giacinto Rebeca A , Cowie Catherine C
Published: January 2018

Objective

A healthy diet is important for diabetes prevention and control; however, few studies have assessed dietary intake among US Hispanics/Latinos, a diverse population with a significant burden of diabetes. To address this gap in the literature, we determined intake of energy, macro/micronutrients, and vitamin supplements among Hispanics/Latinos by glycemic status and heritage.

Research design and methods

Cross-sectional study of adults aged 18–74 years from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (2008–2011) with complete baseline data on glycemic status and two 24-hour dietary recalls (n=13 089). Age-adjusted and sex-adjusted and multivariable-adjusted measures of intake were determined by glycemic status and heritage.

Results

Mean age-adjusted and sex-adjusted energy intake was significantly lower among Hispanics/Latinos with diagnosed diabetes compared with those with normal glycemic status (1665 vs 1873 kcal, P<0.001). Fiber intake was higher among those with diagnosed diabetes versus normal glycemic status (P<0.01). Among those with diagnosed diabetes, energy intake was highest among those with Cuban heritage compared with most other heritage groups (P<0.01 for all, except Mexicans), but there was no difference after additional adjustment. Fiber intake was significantly lower for those of Cuban heritage (vs Dominican, Central American, and Mexican), and sodium intake was significantly higher (vs all other heritage groups) (P<0.01 for all); findings were null after additional adjustment. There was no difference in supplemental intake of vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, or potassium by glycemic status.

Conclusions

As part of the care of Hispanics/Latinos with diabetes, attention should be made to fiber and sodium consumption.
The effect of electronic excitation on London dispersion
Authors: Feng Xibo , Otero-de-la-Roza Alberto , Johnson Erin R.
Published: January 2018

Atomic and molecular dispersion coefficients can now be calculated routinely using density-functional theory. In this work, we present the first determination of how electronic excitation affects molecular C6 London dispersion coefficients from the exchange-hole dipole moment (XDM) dispersion model. Excited states are typically found to have larger dispersion coefficients than the corresponding ground states, due to their more diffuse electron densities. A particular focus is both intramolecular and intermolecular charge-transfer excitations, which have high absorbance intensities and are important in organic dyes, light-emitting diodes, and photovoltaics. In these classes of molecules, the increase in C6 for the electron-accepting moiety is largely offset by a decrease in C6 for the electron-donating moiety. As a result, the change in dispersion energy for a chromophore interacting with neighbouring molecules in the condensed phase is minimal.
Sintered polymeric binders for Li-ion battery alloy anodes
Authors: Hatchard T.D. , Fielden R.A. , Obrovac M.N.
Published: January 2018

The cycling performance in lithium half cells of Si alloy electrodes with polyvinylidene fluoride or polyimide binders were evaluated after the electrodes were cured at temperatures below and above the binder carbonization temperature. After carbonization, the cycling performance of electrodes using polyvinylidene fluoride binder improved considerably but still suffered from capacity fade. Electrodes with carbonized polyimide binder had superior performance and showed no capacity fade after 100 cycles. The superior performance of carbonized polyimide electrodes is thought to be related to polyimide’s high carbon yield upon heating, resulting in the formation of a uniform carbon coating on alloy surfaces. These results suggest that new high performance binders for alloy electrodes might be derived by the carbonization of polymers with a high carbon yield that lead to the formation of uniform carbon coatings on alloy particles.
Structural, spectroscopic and passivation properties of a novel binuclear clamshell-type zinc(II) phthalocyanine as gate dielectric for OFET
Authors: Büyükekşi Sebile Işık , Altındal Ahmet , Açar Nursel , Şengül Abdurrahman
Published: January 2018

A novel clamshell-type binuclear zinc(II) phthalocyanine (2) was synthesized by cross condensation of the bisphthalonitrile (1) with 4-tert-butylphthalonitrile and zinc acetate in 1:10:4 ratio. The structure of the novel compound was characterized by elemental analysis, UV-vis, FT-IR (ATR), HR MALDI-TOF mass, [Formula: see text]H NMR, [Formula: see text]C DEPT NMR and [Formula: see text]H–[Formula: see text]H COSY NMR methods. Applying electronic absorption spectroscopy and density functional theory (DFT) revealed that in THF the geometry of 2 is twisted to adopt an intermediate clamshell conformation in which the spacing between the Zn centers is about 8.1Å, providing a very good account of the observed spectrum exhibiting the characteristic B (Soret) band at 347 nm and the Q band at 673 nm. In solution, 2 was found to exist in non-aggregated form. The calculated fluorescence quantum yields ([Formula: see text] 0.23 in THF and 0.10 in DMF) were relatively reduced in comparison to that of std ZnPc. In particular, understanding of leakage current conduction mechanisms in gate dielectrics is crucial for the development of field effect transistors with improved device performance. Analysis of the reverse bias current–voltage data indicated that the origin of leakage current conduction mechanisms in clamshell-type zinc(II) phthalocyanine is Poole-Frenkel emission. The capacitance density of 12.7 nF cm[Formula: see text] at 5 Hz. and 12.1 nF cm[Formula: see text] at 13 MHz was obtained with the FTO/Pc/Au sandwich structure.
Pyrene containing liquid crystalline asymmetric phthalocyanines and their composite materials with single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Kaya Esra Nur , Polyakov Maxim S. , Basova Tamara V. , Durmuş Mahmut , Hassan Aseel
Published: January 2018

In the present work we have studied the dispersion of single-walled carbon nanotubes in liquid crystalline asymmetrically substituted phthalocyanines (MPc, where M [Formula: see text] Cu, Co, and 2H) bearing one pyrene and six polyoxy groups as side chains. The influence of single-walled carbon nanotubes on the phase behavior of MPcs was investigated using X-ray diffraction, polarized optical microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. It was demonstrated that the incorporation of small amounts of single-walled carbon nanotubes ([Formula: see text]1 wt.%) does not alter the MPc mesophases. The structural features and the sensor response of composite thin films of MPc with single-walled carbon nanotubes to ammonia vapor (10–50 ppm) was studied and compared with those of the films of pure MPc derivatives.
Renminbi Joins International Monetary Fund’s Special Drawing Rights Basket: Rationale and Significance
Authors: WAN Jing
Published: January 2018

After the 2008 financial crisis, the International Monetary Fund realises that reforms are needed to reduce the reliance on the US dollar as the only international reserve currency. It began to nurture super-sovereign reserve money where SDR (Special Drawing Rights) is the most favourable candidate. Joining SDR will push forward China’s exchange rate reform to meet the standard of a real international reserve currency, which requires more skilful domestic and international policy coordination.
China’s Evolving Policy towards North Korea: From Strategic Asset to Liability?
Authors: LI Nan
Published: January 2018

China had historically considered North Korea as a strategic asset and provided substantial aid to it. After North Korea conducted nuclear test in 2006, China has begun to regard North Korea as a strategic liability and supported UN sanctions against it. This policy, however, is limited by China’s practical concern about peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and its strategic concern about a US policy of containment against China.
The Dynamics of Chaebol-Government Relations in South Korea’s Economy
Authors: CHIANG Min-Hua
Published: January 2018

The relationship between the government and chaebols is often considered key for South Korea’s post-war economic success. However, the political and financial liberalisation since the 1980s has reduced the state’s absolute control of the economy. Its greater market liberalisation and outward investment since the 1990s has further tightened the link between the economy and the outside world. Korea’s more globalised economy made the pro-business policies beneficial only for chaebols’ expansion, instead of promoting economic growth.
South Korea-ASEAN Trade Linkages
Authors: LEE Chang-Soo , JEON Jong Gyu
Published: January 2018

This paper quantifies the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) trade linkages with other regional blocs and countries to determine the characteristics of ASEAN’s inter- and intra-regional trade. The competitiveness of member countries and that of rival countries such as China, Japan and Korea are then evaluated at the industry level. Finally, ASEAN member countries’ gross exports in the main exporting industries are decomposed to identify the global value chain features of ASEAN’s trade.
Why putting yourself in the mind of your reader is easier---and more challenging---than you might have imagined
Authors: Yaffe Philip
Published: January 2018

Each "Communication Corner" essay is self-contained; however, they build on each other. For best results, before reading this essay and doing the exercise, go to the first essay "How an Ugly Duckling Became a Swan," then read each succeeding essay.
Reciprocal inhibition between motor neurons of the tibialis anterior and triceps surae in humans
Authors: Yavuz Utku Ş. , Negro Francesco , Diedrichs Robin , Farina Dario
Published: January 2018

Motor neurons innervating antagonist muscles receive reciprocal inhibitory afferent inputs to facilitate the joint movement in the two directions. The present study investigates the mutual transmission of reciprocal inhibitory afferent inputs between the tibialis anterior (TA) and triceps surae (soleus and medial gastrocnemius) motor units. We assessed this mutual mechanism in large populations of motor units for building a statistical distribution of the inhibition amplitudes during standardized input to the motor neuron pools to minimize the effect of modulatory pathways. Single motor unit activities were identified using high-density surface electromyography (HDsEMG) recorded from the TA, soleus (Sol), and medial gastrocnemius (GM) muscles during isometric dorsi- and plantarflexion. Reciprocal inhibition on the antagonist muscle was elicited by electrical stimulation of the tibial (TN) or common peroneal nerves (CPN). The probability density distributions of reflex strength for each muscle were estimated to examine the strength of mutual transmission of reciprocal inhibitory input. The results showed that the strength of reciprocal inhibition in the TA motor units was fourfold greater than for the GM and the Sol motor units. This suggests an asymmetric transmission of reciprocal inhibition between ankle extensor and flexor muscles. This asymmetry cannot be explained by differences in motor unit type composition between the investigated muscles since we sampled low-threshold motor units in all cases. Therefore, the differences observed for the strength of inhibition are presumably due to a differential reciprocal spindle afferent input and the relative contribution of nonreciprocal inhibitory pathways.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We investigated the mutual transmission of reciprocal inhibition in large samples of motor units using a standardized input (electrical stimulation) to the motor neurons. The results demonstrated that the disynaptic reciprocal inhibition exerted between ankle flexor and extensor muscles is asymmetric. The functional implication of asymmetric transmission may be associated with the neural strategies of postural control.
Arterial Stiffness Is Associated with Peripheral Sensory Neuropathy in Diabetes Patients in Ghana
Authors: Yeboah Kwame , Agyekum Jennifer A. , Owusu Mensah Richard N. A. , Affrim Patrick K. , Adu-Gyamfi Linda , Doughan Rita O. , Adjei Afua B.
Published: January 2018

Objective. Peripheral sensory neuropathy (PSN) is among microvascular complications of diabetes that make patients prone to ulceration and amputation. Arterial stiffness is a predictor of cardiovascular diseases and microvascular complications associated with diabetes. We investigated the association between PSN and arterial stiffness, measured as aortic pulse wave velocity (PWVao) and cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI).Method. In a case-control design, arterial stiffness was measured in 240 diabetes patients and 110 nondiabetic control. Large-fibre nerve function was assessed by vibration perception threshold (VPT) using a neurothesiometer. PSN was defined as the VPT > 97.5th percentile from age- and gender-adjusted models in nondiabetic controls.Results. The overall prevalence of PSN was 16.6% in the entire study participants. Compared to non-PSN participants, PSN patients had higher levels of PWVao (9.5 ± 1.7 versus 8.7 ± 1.2 m/s,p=0.016) and CAVI (8.4 ± 1.3 versus 7.6 ± 1.1,p=0.001). In multiple regression models, VPT was associated with PWVao (β=0.14,p=0.025) and CAVI (β=0.12,p=0.04). PSN patients had increased odds of CAVI (OR = 1.51 (1.02–2.4),p=0.043), but not PWVao (OR = 1.25 (0.91–1.71),p=0.173).Conclusion. PWVao and CAVI were associated with VPT and PSN in diabetes patients in Ghana. Patients having PSN have increased odds of CAVI, independent of other conventional risk factors.
Therapeutic Potential of Thymoquinone in Glioblastoma Treatment: Targeting Major Gliomagenesis Signaling Pathways
Authors: Chowdhury Fabliha Ahmed , Hossain Md Kamal , Mostofa A. G. M. , Akbor Maruf Mohammad , Bin Sayeed Muhammad Shahdaat
Published: January 2018

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most devastating brain tumors with median survival of one year and presents unique challenges to therapy because of its aggressive behavior. Current treatment strategy involves surgery, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and adjuvant chemotherapy even though optimal management requires a multidisciplinary approach and knowledge of potential complications from both the disease and its treatment. Thymoquinone (TQ), the main bioactive component of Nigella sativa L., has exhibited anticancer effects in numerous preclinical studies. Due to its multitargeting nature, TQ interferes in a wide range of tumorigenic processes and counteract carcinogenesis, malignant growth, invasion, migration, and angiogenesis. TQ can specifically sensitize tumor cells towards conventional cancer treatments and minimize therapy-associated toxic effects in normal cells. Its potential to enter brain via nasal pathway due to volatile nature of TQ adds another advantage in overcoming blood-brain barrier. In this review, we summarized the potential role of TQ in different signaling pathways in GBM that have undergone treatment with standard therapeutic modalities or with TQ. Altogether, we suggest further comprehensive evaluation of TQ in preclinical and clinical level to delineate its implied utility as novel therapeutics to combat the challenges for the treatment of GBM.
The Relationship between TP53 Gene Status and Carboxylesterase 2 Expression in Human Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Ishimine Momoko , Lee Hyeon-Cheol , Nakaoka Hirofumi , Orita Hajime , Kobayashi Toshiyuki , Mizuguchi Konomi , Endo Mikumi , Inoue Ituro , Sato Koichi , Yokomizo Takehiko
Published: January 2018

Irinotecan (CPT-11) is an anticancer prodrug that is activated by the carboxylesterase CES2 and has been approved for the treatment of many types of solid tumors, including colorectal cancer. Recent studies with cell lines show that CES2 expression is regulated by the tumor suppressor protein p53. However, clinical evidence for this regulatory mechanism in cancer is lacking. In this study, we examined the relationship between TP53 gene status and CES2 expression in human colorectal cancer. Most colorectal cancer specimens (70%; 26 of 37) showed lower CES2 mRNA levels (≥1.5-fold lower) than the adjacent normal tissue, and only 30% (12 of 37) showed similar (<1.5-fold lower) or higher CES2 mRNA levels. However, TP53 gene sequencing revealed no relationship between CES2 downregulation and TP53 mutational status. Moreover, while colorectal cancer cells expressing wild-type p53 exhibited p53-dependent upregulation of CES2, PRIMA-1MET, a drug that restores the transcriptional activity of mutant p53, failed to upregulate CES2 expression in cells with TP53 missense mutations. These results, taken together, suggest that CES2 mRNA expression is decreased in human colorectal cancer independently of p53.
The Role of Parathyroid Hormone and Vitamin D Serum Concentrations in Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Kolaszko Agnieszka , Nowalany-Kozielska Ewa , Ceranowicz Piotr , Morawiec Beata , Kubiak Grzegorz
Published: January 2018

25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) plays a crucial role in human homeostasis. Its deficiency (vitamin D deficiency—VDD), being common in European population, combined with elevated concentration of parathyroid hormone (PTH), represents a vicious cycle of mechanisms leading to heart failure (HF). Despite several papers published in that field, the effect of VDD and PTH concentration on cardiovascular system remains unequivocal; thus, the aim of the study was to compare these data among HF and non-HF patients being prospectively enrolled into the study during hospital stay in the cardiology ward. Patients with HF had higher PTH concentration (85.0 ± 52.6 versus 64.5 ± 31.7, p=0.02) compared to non-HF patients. Mean PTH values were associated with the clinical status expressed by the New York Heart Association class (NYHA class) (“0”—66.04, “I”—56.57, “II”—72.30, “III”—85.59, and “IV”—144.37 pg/ml, p=0.00004). Interestingly, neither 25(OH)D (31.5 versus 29.7 ng/ml, p=ns) nor phosphorus (P) (1.23 versus 1.18 mmol/l, p=ns) nor total calcium (Ca2+) concentration (2.33 versus 2.37 mmol/l, p=ns) differed among the groups. Reassuming PTH serum concentration in contrary to 25(OH)D, P and Ca2+ are significantly raised among the patients with HF and shows significant relationship with the clinical status expressed by the NYHA class.
Body Image of Highly Trained Female Athletes Engaged in Different Types of Sport
Authors: Kantanista Adam , Glapa Agata , Banio Adrianna , Firek Wiesław , Ingarden Anna , Malchrowicz-Mośko Ewa , Markiewicz Paweł , Płoszaj Katarzyna , Ingarden Mateusz , Maćkowiak Zuzanna
Published: January 2018

Background. The aim of the study was to evaluate differences in body image across different types of sports in highly trained female athletes. Methods. 242 female individuals, aged 13–30 years (M=20.0, SD = 4.5), representing aesthetic sports (n=56) and nonaesthetic sports (n=186), were recruited from different sports clubs in Poland. Body image, BMI, age, the level of competition attained, and the training background of participants were recorded. Results. One-way ANOVA showed differences in the body image of athletes engaged in different types of sport (F(11,230)=4.10, p<0.001, and η2=0.16). The model predicting the body image of female athletes was significant (F(5,236)=10.40, p<0.001); the adjusted R2=0.163. Type of sport explained 7.1% (β=–0.263, p<0.001), age explained 4.5% (β=0.341,p<0.001), BMI explained 3.6% (β=–0.230,p<0.001), and level of competition explained 0.9% (β=0.153, p<0.05) of variance in body image. Conclusions. The findings provide vital new knowledge which can be used by researchers and practitioners in designing educational programs on weight-related behaviors in female athletes. Such programs should be implemented especially in young female athletes participating in high-level sporting activities at an early stage.
Comparing Different Recording Lengths of Dynamic Cerebral Autoregulation: 5 versus 10 Minutes
Authors: Chi Nai-Fang , Wang Cheng-Yen , Chan Lung , Hu Han-Hwa
Published: January 2018

We compared the dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA) indices between 5- and 10-minute data lengths by analyzing 37 patients with ischemic stroke and 51 controls in this study. Correlation coefficient (Mx) and transfer function analysis were applied for dCA analysis. Mx and phase shift in all frequency bands were not significantly different between 5- and 10-minute recordings [mean difference: Mx = 0.02; phase shift of very low frequency (0.02–0.07 Hz) = 0.3°, low frequency (0.07–0.20 Hz) = 0.6°, and high frequency (0.20–0.50 Hz) = 0.1°]. However, the gains in all frequency bands of a 5-minute recording were slightly but significantly higher than those of a 10-minute recording (mean difference of gain: very low frequency = 0.05 cm/s/mmHg, low frequency = 0.11 cm/s/mmHg, and high frequency = 0.14 cm/s/mmHg). The intraclass correlation coefficients between all dCA indices of 5- and 10-minute recordings were favorable, especially in Mx (0.93), phase shift in very low frequency (0.87), and gain in very low frequency (0.94). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for stroke diagnosis between 5- and 10-minute recordings were not different. We concluded that dCA assessed by using a 5-minute recording is not significantly different from that using a 10-minute recording in the clinical application.
Impaired Gal-9 Dysregulates the PBMC-Induced Th1/Th2 Imbalance in Abortion-Prone Matings
Authors: He Mengzhou , Jiang Ming , Zhou Yuan , Li Fanfan , Yang Meitao , Fan Yao , Xie Yin , Beejadhursing Rajluxmee , Feng Ling , Deng Dongrui
Published: January 2018

Recurrent miscarriage is defined as the loss of 3 or more consecutive pregnancies; however, the underlying immunologic mechanisms that trigger pregnancy loss remain largely unelucidated. Galectin-9 (Gal-9) may modulate a variety of biologic functions and play an important role in Th1/Th2 immune deviation. To analyze the mechanism of Gal-9 in abortion, we used the classical abortion-prone mouse model (DBA/2-mated CBA/J mice) to detect the expression of Gal-9 at the maternal-fetal interface. We also mimicked the immune environment of pregnancy by culturing trophoblast cells with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to explore how Gal-9 might be involved in the pathogenesis of abortion. We found that the expression levels of Gal-9 in abortion-prone matings were lower than that for controls. Using a coculture system, we detected a Th1 preponderance in the coculture from abortion-prone matings. Furthermore, Gal-9 blockade augmented the imbalance of Th1/Th2 immunity in abortion-prone matings by promoting the secretion of Th1-derived cytokines in coculture, while there was a Th2 preponderance when we administered recombinant Gal-9. In conclusion, our results suggest that the Gal-9 signal is important for the regulation of PBMC function toward a Th2 bias at the maternal-fetal interface, which is beneficial for the maintenance of a normal pregnancy.
Treatment-Related Adverse Events Predict Improved Clinical Outcome in NSCLC Patients on KEYNOTE-001 at a Single Center
Authors: Lisberg Aaron , Tucker D. Andrew , Goldman Jonathan W. , Wolf Brian , Carroll James , Hardy Ariana , Morris Karolyn , Linares Paulina , Adame Carlos , Spiegel Marshall L. , Wells Courtney , McKenzie Jordan , Ledezma Blanca , Mendenhall Melody , Abarca Phillip , Bornazyan Krikor , Hunt Jaime , Moghadam Nima , Chong Natalie , Nameth Danielle , Marx Caitlin , Madrigal John , Vangala Sitaram , Shaverdian Narek , Elashoff David , Garon Edward B.
Published: January 2018

We retrospectively analyzed non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients from a single center treated with pembrolizumab on the KEYNOTE-001 trial and evaluated the association between treatment-related adverse events (trAEs) and clinical outcomes. Investigators reported AEs on trial and graded them according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v4.0, labeling them as unlikely, possibly, or probably treatment-related. AEs labeled as possibly/probably related were considered trAEs for this analysis. The relationship between the incidence of a trAE and clinical outcomes was evaluated. Ninety-seven NSCLC patients treated on KEYNOTE-001 at the University of California, Los Angeles were evaluated. Ten percent (85/826) of AEs were trAEs, occurring in 40% (39/97) of patients. The most frequent trAEs were rash (21% patients), fatigue (6% patients), and hypothyroidism (6% patients). The 39 patients that experienced a trAE had increased objective response rate (ORR, 38.5%), progression-free survival (PFS: median, 248 days), and overall survival (OS: median, 493 days), compared with the 58 patients that did not (ORR: 8.9%, PFS: median 60 days, OS: median 144.5 days). The observed association between trAEs and improved clinical outcome persisted when using Cox proportional hazards regression models to assess the confounding effect of covariates and mitigate guarantee-time bias. The association also remained when data were substratified by grade, degree of association, and treatment-related select AE designation. This single-center analysis revealed that trAEs predicted for improved clinical outcome with pembrolizumab, and when controlling for guarantee-time bias and plausible confounders, this association remained. This observed relationship adds to our understanding of anti–PD-1 therapy and could aid clinicians in identifying patients most likely to benefit from therapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(3); 288–94. ©2018 AACR.
What We Do and Do Not Know about Women and Kidney Diseases; Questions Unanswered and Answers Unquestioned: Reflection on World Kidney Day and International Women's Day
Authors: Piccoli Giorgina B. , Alrukhaimi Mona , Liu Zhi-Hong , Zakharova Elena , Levin Adeera ,   on behalf of the World Kidney Day Steering Committee
Published: January 2018

Chronic kidney disease affects approximately 10% of the world's adult population: it is within the top 20 causes of death worldwide, and its impact on patients and their families can be devastating. World Kidney Day and International Women's Day in 2018 coincide, thus offering an opportunity to reflect on the importance of women's health and specifically their kidney health, on the community and the next generations, as well as to strive to be more curious about the unique aspects of kidney disease in women so that we may apply those learnings more broadly. Girls and women, who make up approximately 50% of the world's population, are important contributors to society and their families. Gender differences continue to exist around the world in access to education, medical care, and participation in clinical studies. Pregnancy is a unique state for women, offering an opportunity for diagnosis of kidney disease, but also a state where acute and chronic kidney diseases may manifest, and which may impact future generations with respect to kidney health. There are various autoimmune and other conditions that are more likely to have an impact on women, with profound consequences for child bearing, and on the fetus. Women have different complications on dialysis than men, and are more likely to be donors than recipients of kidney transplants. In this editorial, we focus on what we do and do not know about women, kidney health, and kidney disease, and what we might learn in the future to improve outcomes worldwide.
Accumulated Uneasiness – A Pathway towards Desistance among Delinquent Youth
Authors: Zdun Steffen
Published: January 2018

Despite the wealth of knowledge in desistance research on the meaning of growing discontent with one’s life situation and a perceived necessity of distancing oneself from a negative past, there is a research gap in explaining cases in which individuals mainly change for their own sake. This paper introduces the concept of accumulated uneasiness which adds to the reconstruction of plausible pathways towards desistance from delinquency. Twenty-nine qualitative interviews of young adults were analyzed. The findings suggest that delinquency and other immature behavior might lose their meaning in young adulthood due to internalized values and norms; a process which is intensified by and started due to an increasing feeling of accumulated uneasiness. The findings contribute to the discussion why desistance occurs at certain points in life and how internal and external motivation is interrelated in such processes.