bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide association study identifies 44 independent genomic loci for self-reported adult hearing difficulty in the UK Biobank cohort
Authors: Wells Helena RR. , Freidin Maxim B. , Zainul Abidin Fatin N. , Payton Antony , Dawes Piers , Munro Kevin J. , Morton Cynthia C. , Moore David R. , Dawson Sally J , Williams Frances MK.
Published: February 2019

Age-related hearing impairment (ARHI) is the most common sensory impairment in the aging population; a third of individuals are affected by disabling hearing loss by the age of 651. ARHI is a multifactorial condition caused by both genetic and environmental factors, with estimates of heritability between 35% and 55%2–4. The genetic risk factors and underlying biological pathology of ARHI are largely unknown, meaning that targets for new therapies remain elusive. We performed genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for two self-reported hearing phenotypes, hearing difficulty (HDiff) and hearing aid use (HAid), using over 250,000 UK Biobank5 volunteers aged between 40-69 years. We identified 44 independent genome-wide significant loci (P<5E-08), 33 of which have not previously been associated with any form of hearing loss. Gene sets from these loci are enriched in auditory processes such as synaptic activities, nervous system processes, inner ear morphology and cognition. Immunohistochemistry for protein localisation in adult mouse cochlea indicate metabolic, sensory and neuronal functions for NID2, CLRN2 and ARHGEF28 identified in the GWAS. These results provide new insight into the genetic landscape underlying susceptibility to ARHI.
Impacts of reduced inorganic N:P ratio on three distinct plankton communities in the Humboldt upwelling system
Authors: Spilling Kristian , Camarena-Gómez Maria-Teresa , Lipsewers Tobias , Martinez-Varela Alícia , Díaz-Rosas Francisco , Eronen-Rasimus Eeva , Silva Nelson , von Dassow Peter , Montecino Vivian
Published: February 2019

The ratio of inorganic nitrogen to phosphorus (NP) is projected to decrease in the Eastern Boundary Upwelling Systems (EBUS) due to warming of the surface waters. In an enclosure experiment, we employed two levels of NP ratios (10 and 5) for three distinct plankton communities collected along the coast of central Chile (33°S). The primary effect of the NP treatment was related to different concentrations of NO3, which directly influenced the biomass of phytoplankton. Additionally, low inorganic NP ratio reduced the seston NP and Chla-C ratios, and there were some effects on the plankton community composition, e.g. benefittingSynechococcusspp in some communities. One of the communities was clearly top down controlled and trophic transfer to grazers was up to 5.8% during the 12 day experiment. Overall, the initial plankton community composition was more important for seston stoichiometry and trophic transfer than the inorganic NP ratio. Any long term change in the plankton community structure will likely have greater impact than direct effects of a decreasing inorganic NP ratio on the Humboldt Current ecosystem.
The genome ofAuriculariopsis amplasheds light on fruiting body development and wood-decay of bark-inhabiting fungi
Authors: Almási Éva , Sahu Neha , Krizsán Krisztina , Bálint Balázs , Kovács Gábor M. , Kiss Brigitta , Cseklye Judit , Drula Elodie , Henrissat Bernard , Nagy István , Chovatia Mansi , Adam Catherine , LaButti Kurt , Lipzen Anna , Riley Robert , Grigoriev Igor V. , Nagy László G.
Published: February 2019

The Agaricomycetes are fruiting body forming fungi that produce some of the most efficient enzyme systems to degrade woody plant materials. Despite decades-long interest in the ecological and functional diversity of wood-decay types and in fruiting body development, the evolution of the genetic repertoires of both traits are incompletely known. Here, we sequenced and analyzed the genome ofAuriculariopsis ampla, a close relative of the model speciesSchizophyllum commune. Comparative analyses of wood-decay genes in these and other 29 Agaricomycetes species revealed that the gene family composition ofA. amplaandS. communeare transitional between that of white rot species and less efficient wood-degraders (brown rot, ectomycorrhizal). Rich repertoires of suberinase and tannase genes were found in both species, with tannases generally restricted to species that preferentially colonize bark-covered wood. Analyses of fruiting body transcriptomes in bothA. amplaandS. communehighlighted a high rate of divergence of developmental gene expression. Several genes with conserved developmental expression were found, nevertheless, including 9 new transcription factors as well as small secreted proteins, some of which may serve as fruiting body-specific effector molecules. Taken together, the genome sequence and developmental transcriptome ofAuriculariopsis amplahas highlighted novel aspects of wood-decay diversity and of fruiting body development in mushroom-forming fungi.
AT6SS trans-kingdom effector is required for the delivery of a novel antibacterial toxin in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Berni Benjamin , Soscia Chantal , Sarah Djermoun , Bérengère Ize , Bleves Sophie
Published: February 2019

Pseudomonas aeruginosa has evolved multiple strategies to disarm and take advantage of its host. For this purpose this opportunist pathogen has particularly developed protein secretion in the surrounding medium or injection into host cells. Among this, the Type VI Secretion System (T6SS) is utilized to deliver effectors into eukaryotic host as well as target bacteria. It assembles into a contractile bacteriophage tail-like structure that functions like a crossbow, injecting an arrow loaded with effectors into the target cell. The repertoire of T6SS antibacterial effectors of P. aeruginosa is remarkably broad to promote environmental adaptation and survival in various bacterial communities, and presumably in the eukaryotic host too.

Here we report the discovery a novel pair of antibacterial effector and immunity of P. aeruginosa, Tle3 and Tli3. Tli3 neutralizes the toxicity of Tle3 in the periplasm to protect from fratricide intoxication. The characterization of the secretion mechanism of Tle3 indicates that it requires a cytoplasmic adaptor, Tla3, to be targeted and loaded onto the VgrG2b spike and thus delivered by the H2-T6SS machinery. Tla3 is different from the other adaptors discovered so far, and defines a novel family among T6SS.

Interestingly this led us to discover that VgrG2b that we previously characterized as an anti-eukaryotic effector possesses an antibacterial activity as well, as it is toxic towards Escherichia coli. VgrG2b is thus a novel trans-kingdom effector targeting both bacteria and eukaryotes. VgrG2b represents an interesting target for fighting against P. aeruginosa in the environment and in the context of host infection.

Highlights

Tle3 and Tli3 are a novel pair of antibacterial toxin and immunity of P. aeruginosa

Tla3 recruits Tle3 in the cytoplasm, and targets it to VgrG2b

VgrG2b is required for Tle3 delivery into target bacteria by the H2-T6SS

Tla3 defines a novel type of T6SS adaptor with a DUF2875

VgrG2b is a new trans-kingdom effector targeting both bacteria and eukaryotes
The quest for morally competent future Muslim accountants
Authors: Zubairu Umaru , Ismail Suhaiza , Fatima A.H.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The moral credibility of accountants has been battered for over two decades because of a seemingly unending series of accounting scandals. The inclusion of ethics education in the accounting curricula has been advocated as one option through which a new generation of morally competent accountants can be produced. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of a study that sought to determine the success of this strategy by measuring the moral competencies of 160 final-year Muslim accounting students enrolled in two Islamic-university accounting programs.

Design/methodology/approach

An open-ended, scenario-based, accounting-specific instrument was developed in collaboration with five Islamic accounting scholars to survey and measure the students’ moral competencies from an Islamic perspective.

Findings

The results revealed that the students had glaring weaknesses in their moral competencies, particularly in selecting an Islamically appropriate organization to work for after graduation and the importance of diligence in completing one’s task as an accountant. The implication of these results is that these accounting programs have to critically assess the ethical content of their curricula to ensure that it is capable of developing the moral competencies of these students to an excellent level.

Research limitations/implications

The implication of these results is that these accounting programs have to critically assess the ethical content of their curricula to ensure that it is capable of developing the moral competencies of these students to an excellent level.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the few moral competence studies that consider the source of moral values of the respondents in measuring their moral competencies. Additionally, it provides much-needed insight into the effectiveness of a policy to address a pressing problem in the accounting profession.
Regions of homozygosity as risk factors for multiple myeloma
Authors: Went Molly , Sud Amit , Li Ni , Johnson David C. , Mitchell Jonathan S. , Kaiser Martin , Houlston Richard S.
Published: February 2019

Genomic regions of homozygosity (ROH), detectable in outbred populations, have been implicated as determinants of inherited risk. To examine whether ROH is associated with risk of multiple myeloma (MM), we performed whole‐genome homozygosity analysis using single‐nucleotide polymorphism genotype data from 2,282 MM cases and 5,197 controls, with replication in an additional 878 MM cases and 7,083 controls. Globally, the distribution of ROH between cases and controls was not significantly different. However, one ROH at chromosome 9q21, harboring the B‐cell transcription factor gene KLF9, showed evidence of a consistent association and may therefore warrant further investigation as a candidate risk factor for MM. Overall, our analysis provides little support for a homozygosity signature being a significant factor in MM risk.
A physiological study to determine the mechanism of carbon dioxide clearance during apnoea when using transnasal humidified rapid insufflation ventilatory exchange (THRIVE)
Authors: Hermez L. A. , Spence C. J. , Payton M. J. , Nouraei S. A. R. , Patel A. , Barnes T. H.
Published: February 2019

Clinical observations suggest that compared with standard apnoeic oxygenation, transnasal humidified rapid‐insufflation ventilatory exchange using high‐flow nasal oxygenation reduces the rate of carbon dioxide accumulation in patients who are anaesthetised and apnoeic. This suggests that active gas exchange takes place, but the mechanisms by which it may occur have not been described. We used three laboratory airway models to investigate mechanisms of carbon dioxide clearance in apnoeic patients. We determined flow patterns using particle image velocimetry in a two‐dimensional model using particle‐seeded fluorescent solution; visualised gas clearance in a three‐dimensional printed trachea model in air; and measured intra‐tracheal turbulence levels and carbon dioxide clearance rates using a three‐dimensional printed model in air mounted on a lung simulator. Cardiogenic oscillations were simulated in all experiments. The visualisation experiments indicated that gaseous mixing was occurring in the trachea. With no cardiogenic oscillations applied, mean (SD) carbon dioxide clearance increased from 0.29 (0.04) ml.min−1 to 1.34 (0.14) ml.min−1 as the transnasal humidified rapid‐insufflation ventilatory exchange flow rate was increased from 20 l.min−1 to 70 l.min−1 (p = 0.0001). With a cardiogenic oscillation of 20 ml.beat−1 applied, carbon dioxide clearance increased from 11.9 (0.50) ml.min−1 to 17.4 (1.2) ml.min−1 as the transnasal humidified rapid‐insufflation ventilatory exchange flow rate was increased from 20 l.min−1 to 70 l.min−1 (p = 0.0014). These findings suggest that enhanced carbon dioxide clearance observed under apnoeic conditions with transnasal humidified rapid‐insufflation ventilatory exchange, as compared with classical apnoeic oxygenation, may be explained by an interaction between entrained and highly turbulent supraglottic flow vortices created by high‐flow nasal oxygen and cardiogenic oscillations.
Mitochondrial metabolism is inhibited by the HIF1α‐MYC‐PGC‐1β axis in BRAF V600E thyroid cancer
Authors: Gao Yanyan , Yang Fang , Yang Xiu‐An , Zhang Li , Yu Huixin , Cheng Xian , Xu Shichen , Pan Jie , Wang Kun , Li Peifeng
Published: February 2019

BRAF V600E is the most common mutation identified in thyroid cancers. However, the relationship between BRAF V600E and metabolic reprogramming in thyroid cancer is unclear. Here, we investigate the mechanism of metabolic reprogramming in BRAF V600E thyroid cancer by constructing BRAF V600E‐overexpressing and BRAF‐knockdown thyroid cell lines for use in mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis experiments. Western blot and RT‐qPCR were performed to measure the level of metabolism‐related proteins, and various approaches were used to investigate transcriptional regulation. In thyroid cancer cells, the overexpression of BRAF V600E inhibited OXPHOS gene expression and mitochondrial respiration but enhanced aerobic glycolysis. Clinical thyroid cancer samples carrying the BRAF V600E mutation had suppressed levels of PGC‐1β but increased expression of HIF1α. Our results show that BRAF V600E reduced mitochondrial respiration by decreasing the expression of PGC‐1β. In addition, HIF1α, which is a target of BRAF V600E, was found to regulate the expression of PGC‐1β via MYC. Furthermore, glycolysis‐related enzymes, such as LDHA and PKM2, were upregulated in BRAF V600E mutant thyroid cancer specimens, thereby promoting glycolysis. MEK1/2 inhibitor treatment enhanced the specific dependence of BRAF V600E mutant thyroid cancer on mitochondrial respiration. These results indicate that in thyroid cancer, the BRAF V600E mutation alters the HIF1α‐MYC‐PGC‐1β axis, causing mitochondrial respiration to be inhibited and aerobic glycolysis to be enhanced.
Validating international CanMEDS‐based standards defining education and safe practice of nurse anesthetists
Authors: Herion C. , Egger L. , Greif R. , Violato C.
Published: February 2019

Aim

To investigate whether the CanMEDS‐based International Federation of Nurse Anesthetists’ Standards could adequately define the scope of practice and reliably be used to train and evaluate Swiss nurse anesthetists (NAs).

Background

Although nurse anesthetists represent a majority of the global workforce in anesthesia, policies that define the scope of practice are frequently non‐existent. In low‐ and middle‐income countries, the lack of anesthesia providers with adequate training is a major challenge.

Introduction

Despite stringent training requirements, the scope of practice of Swiss nurse anesthetists is actually not defined. Therefore, we surveyed and assessed whether nurse anesthetists felt that the professional competencies outlined in this framework were aligned with their clinical practice.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey investigated Swiss nurse anesthetists’ relevance ratings of 76 competencies of the International Federation of Nurse Anesthetists according to their professional practice. Cronbach's alpha coefficients were used to determine the internal consistency of the competencies, as well as factor analyses to assess construct validity of these competencies integrated into the CanMEDS roles model.

Results

Participants rated the Standards overall as very relevant with high reliability. Factor analyses provided evidence of construct validity of these.

Discussion

The International Federation of Nurse Anesthetists' Standards of Practice provide a highly relevant framework and a valuable set of competencies for the scope of practice of Swiss nurse anesthetists, which enabled translation from global guides to local national standards.

Conclusion and implication for nursing and health policy

Adopted by low‐ and middle‐income countries or countries where national standards are non‐existent, this survey could introduce national and local policies at minimally acceptable standards of care for nurse anesthetists worldwide. The above standards have the potential to align education, outcomes and assessment of nurse anesthetists with the needs of national healthcare systems.
CCL18 promotes the metastasis of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck through MTDH‐NF‐κB signalling pathway
Authors: Qin Yuexiang , Wang Juncheng , Zhu Gangcai , Li Guo , Tan Haolei , Chen Changhan , Pi Leiming , She Li , Chen Xiyu , Wei Ming , Li Zhexuan , Liu Zhifeng , Huang Donghai , Liu Yong , Zhang Xin
Published: February 2019

Metastasis is one of the primary causes for high mortality in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Our previous study showed that chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 18 (CCL18), derived from tumour‐associated macrophages (TAMs), regulates SCCHN metastasis by promoting epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and preserving stemness. However, the underlying mechanism needs to be further investigation. Interestingly, metadherin (MTDH) expression was induced when SCCHN cells were stimulated with recombinant CCL18 protein in this study. Suppressing MTDH expression reversed CCL18‐induced migration, invasion and EMT in SCCHN cells. Furthermore, the NF‐κB signalling pathway was involved in the MTDH knock‐down cells with CCL18 stimulation. We performed ELISA to evaluate the CCL18 levels in the serums of 132 treatment‐naive SCCHN patients, 25 patients with precancerous lesion and 32 healthy donors. Our results demonstrated that serum CCL18 levels were significantly higher in SCCHN patients than patients with precancerous lesion and healthy individuals. CCL18 levels were found to be significantly correlated with tumour classification, clinical stage, lymph node metastasis and histological grade in SCCHN patients. Thus, our findings suggest that CCL18 may serve as a potential biomarker for diagnosis of SCCHN and promote SCCHN invasion, migration and EMT by MTDH‐NF‐κB signalling pathway.
Validation of the dermatology‐specific proxy instrument the Infants and Toddlers Dermatology Quality of Life
Authors: Chernyshov P.V. , Sampogna F. , Pustišek N. , Marinovic B. , Manolache L. , Suru A. , Salavastru C.M. , Tiplica G.S. , Stoleriu G. , Kakourou T. , Alexopoulos A. , Nasi L. , Szepietowski J.C. , Trzeciak M. , Nowicki R.J. , Chubar O.V. , Chernyshov A.V. , Pochynok T.V.
Published: February 2019

Background

The first dermatology‐specific proxy health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) instrument for children 0–4 years old with skin diseases, the Infants and Toddlers Dermatology Quality of Life (InToDermQoL), was recently developed. In order to avoid the problem of cross‐cultural inequivalence focus groups work and pilot tests were organized simultaneously in all national centres of the project. The InToDermQoL showed good comprehensibility, clarity and acceptance.

Objective

To validate the InToDermQoL questionnaire during international field tests.

Methods

Internal consistency, test–retest reliability, convergent and discriminant validity of the InToDermQoL questionnaire were checked during international field tests.

Results

Parents of 473 children with skin diseases filled in the national language versions of the InToDermQoL questionnaire. All three age‐specific versions of the InToDermQoL questionnaire with 10, 12 and 15 items, respectively, showed high internal consistency (Cronbach's α 0.90–0.93), good test–retest reliability (correlation coefficients > 0.9), significant correlations with the most widely used atopic dermatitis‐specific proxy instrument, the Infants Dermatitis Quality of Life Index (correlation coefficients 0.68–0.79). The InToDermQoL versions for children <3 years old well correlated with the atopic dermatis severity measure Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis (correlation coefficients 0.66 and 0.86 for 10 and 12 items versions, respectively). The InToDermQoL questionnaire discriminated well among different diagnoses and disease severity levels.

Conclusion

Our field tests confirmed internal consistency, test–retest reliability, convergent and discriminant validity of the InToDermQoL questionnaire. Development and validation of the InToDermQoL questionnaire make it possible to assess dermatology‐specific aspects of HRQoL in youngest children with skin diseases. There are many reasons to assess HRQoL in dermatologic clinical practice, and we hope that our new instrument will be used internationally in paediatric dermatology for research and practical needs.
Age estimation based on visual parameters of the skin of cadavers
Authors: Tsuboi Hajime , Yokota Isao , Miyamori Daisuke , Akasaka Yoshihisa , Yamada Ayumu , Ikegaya Hiroshi
Published: February 2019

Background

Previous studies have reported relationships between various visual parameters of the skin and changes due to aging. Due to an increase in the discovery of unidentified bodies, the field of forensic medicine anticipates the development of a rapid method for estimating age. The present study measured various visual parameters of the skin in human remains and investigated the correlation between these parameters and age.

Materials and Methods

Skin images were taken of four body parts (cheek, chin, brachium, and thigh) of 414 forensic cases. We interpreted eight visual parameters of the skin (smoothness, roughness, texture, dullness, brightness, erythema, color phase, and sagging) from skin photograph images, and constructed three age‐prediction models, categorized by sex, postmortem interval, and age.

Results

Significant correlations were observed in the erythema of the cheek and chin, the roughness of the brachium, and the texture of the brachium and thigh among the visual parameters calculated in four body parts, using the three models. The root‐mean‐square errors, which indicate the precision of the three prediction models, were 13.06, 13.80, and 13.77. The only model that demonstrated a correlation with the visual parameters was sex (but not age or postmortem interval).

Conclusion

Similar to living subjects, we observed a correlation with age for a number of visual parameters. The parameters that correlate with age depend on whether the site being measured was exposed to sunlight. Age estimation based on visual parameters requires measurement of visual parameters for skin both exposed and not exposed to sunlight.
The selective cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor mavacoxib (Trocoxil) exerts anti‐tumour effects in vitro independent of cyclooxygenase‐2 expression levels
Authors: Hurst Emma A. , Pang Lisa Y. , Argyle David J.
Published: February 2019

The inducible inflammatory enzyme cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and its product prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) are prominent tumour promoters, and expression of COX‐2 is elevated in a number of tumours of both humans and canines. Targeting COX‐2 in cancer is an attractive option because of readily available non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and there is a clear epidemiological link between NSAID use and cancer risk. In this study, we aim to establish the anti‐tumourigenic effects of the selective, long‐acting COX‐2 inhibitor mavacoxib. We show here that mavacoxib is cytotoxic to a panel of human and canine osteosarcoma, mammary and bladder carcinoma cancer cell lines; that it can induce apoptosis and inhibit the migration of these cells. Interestingly, we establish that mavacoxib can exert these effects independently of elevated COX‐2 expression. This study highlights the potential novel use of mavacoxib as a cancer therapeutic, suggesting that mavacoxib may be an effective anti‐cancer agent independent of tumour COX‐2 expression.
Replacement of infected aortoiliac vascular grafts with bifurcated BioIntegral Surgical No‐React® bovine pericardial xenografts
Authors: Terlecki Piotr , Zubilewicz Tomasz , Wojtak Andrzej , Pleban Eliza , Przywara Stanisław , Iłżecki Marek , Feldo Marcin , Chrapko Marek , Kęsik Jan Jakub , Terlecki Karol , Pedowski Tomasz , Chrapko Beata , Szopiński Piotr
Published: February 2019

The infection of a vascular prosthesis is potentially fatal, and its effective treatment still remains the greatest challenge for vascular surgeons. We present our initial experience using bovine pericardial vascular prostheses to replace infected aortoiliac vascular grafts. Six consecutive patients with infection of the graft were prospectively included in this study. Infection of the vascular graft was confirmed by clinical symptoms, laboratory tests and the results of computed tomography and positron emission tomography/computed tomography. In all cases, the infected aortoiliac graft was surgically removed and replaced by the bovine—pericardial BioIntegral aortic‐bifemoral prosthesis. Technical success was achieved in every case with no in‐hospital or 30 days mortality. One patient required revision of distal anastomosis due to recurrent bleeding at day four after surgery. One patient presented with upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding during the postoperative period, which was managed endoscopically. The mean hospital stay was 14 days (range 9‐19). The control CT scan performed 2 months after surgery showed significant regression of abscesses and periprosthetic inflammation. Two patients died within 32 months of follow‐up: one due to heart attack, the other due to generalized sepsis, which was correlated with the previous infection. Four patients are still in follow‐up. The BioIntegral prosthesis is patent in all four cases, with no clinical or ultrasonographic signs of infection. Our brief investigation shows that a bovine pericardial prosthesis may be a valuable option in the treatment of vascular grafts infections.
Development and characterization of novel clinical grade neonatal porcine bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Nishimura Masuhiro , Nguyen Luan , Watanabe Natsuki , Fujita Yasutaka , Sawamoto Osamu , Matsumoto Shinichi
Published: February 2019

Due to recent advances in research on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), MSCs are expected to be used in various clinical applications. However, securing adequate cadaveric donors and safety of living donors are major issues. To solve such issues, we have examined to develop clinical grade neonatal porcine bone marrow‐derived MSCs (npBM‐MSCs). Clinical grade neonatal porcine bone marrow cells were collected, frozen, and sent to our laboratory by air. The npBM‐MSCs were isolated from thawed bone marrow cells, then frozen. The thawed npBM‐MSCs were examined for CD markers and differentiated into chondrocytes, osteocytes, and adipocytes. They were compared with human bone marrow‐derived MSCs (hBM‐MSCs) for growth rate and size. To assess the robustness of proliferation, we compared culture medium with or without gelatin. The npBM‐MSCs expressed positive MSC markers CD29, CD44, and CD90 and were differentiated into chondrocytes, osteocytes, and adipocytes. The doubling time of npBM‐MSCs was significantly shorter than that of hBM‐MSCs (17.3 ± 0.8 vs 62.0 ± 19.6 hours, P < 0.01). The size of npBM‐MSCs was also significantly smaller than that of hBM‐MSCs (13.1 ± 0.3 vs 17.5 ± 0.4 μm, P < 0.001). The npBM‐MSCs showed similar proliferation characters irrespective of with or without gelatin coating. The npBM‐MSCs secreted VEGF‐A, VEGF‐C, and TGF‐β1. We have established npBM‐MSCs which show super‐rapid growth, small size, and robust proliferation profile. The np‐MSCs might be able to solve the donor issues for MSC therapy.
Perceptions of Pre-Service Teachers about Teacher Professional Ethics Course Through Metaphors
Authors: Genç Süreyya
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study is to determine the perceptions of pre-service teachers towards teacher professional ethics course. The research was carried out with 138 pre-service teachers attending pedagogical formation training certificate program a public university in Turkey. In the study, a phenomenological method was used within the scope of qualitative research model. A semi-structured form with open-ended questions was used as a data collection tool to reveal pre-service teachers' perceptions of teacher professional ethics course. In this form, the pre-service teachers were asked to complete the sentence "the teacher professional ethics course is like ......; because ......". The results obtained from the pre-service teachers' responses were analyzed using content analysis technique. Based on these metaphors and the content analysis, the validity-reliability of the categories were shared with 3 faculty members who specialize in the field of metaphors and category lists. After expert opinions, non-overlapping metaphors were determined and the final shape was given. As a result of the research, it was found out that the pre-service teachers mostly expressed the compass and light metaphors from the metaphors they produced for the teacher professional ethics course. Based on their, “the course guiding students” category is the most commonly expressed metaphor among the categories formed in common characteristics. According to the pre-service teachers, teacher professional ethics course guides people in the right direction. As a result of the research, it was noted that pre-service teachers were able to express their own specific attitude and in-depth thinking abilities to express their perceptions about the subject.
How rabbits escaped a deadly virus—at least for now
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: February 2019

Same genetic changes found in rabbits on two continents.
Pathology-linked protease caught in action
Authors: Lichtenthaler Stefan F. , Güner Gökhan
Published: February 2019

Structural snapshots of γ-secretase yield insight for drug development
Roy Glauber (1925–2018)
Authors: Scully Marlan O. , Prasad Sudhakar
Published: February 2019

Father of quantum optics
Overall mortality in combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema related to systemic sclerosis
Authors: Ariani Alarico , Silva Mario , Bravi Elena , Parisi Simone , Saracco Marta , De Gennaro Fabio , Caimmi Cristian , Girelli Francesco , De Santis Maria , Volpe Alessandro , Lumetti Federica , Hax Vanessa , Bredemeier Markus , Alfieri Veronica , Santilli Daniele , Bodini Flavio Cesare , Lucchini Gianluca , Mozzani Flavio , Seletti Valeria , Bacchini Emanuele , Arrigoni Eugenio , Giuggioli Dilia , Chakr Rafael , Idolazzi Luca , Bertorelli Giuseppina , Imberti Davide , Michieletti Emanuele , Paolazzi Giuseppe , Fusaro Enrico , Chetta Alfredo Antonio , Scirè Carlo Alberto , Sverzellati Nicola
Published: February 2019

Objectives

This multicentre study aimed to investigate the overall mortality of combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and to compare CPFE-SSc characteristics with those of other SSc subtypes (with interstitial lung disease—ILD, emphysema or neither).

Methods

Chest CTs, anamnestic data, immunological profile and pulmonary function tests of patients with SSc were retrospectively collected. Each chest CT underwent a semiquantitative assessment blindly performed by three radiologists. Patients were clustered in four groups: SSc-CPFE, SSc-ILD, SSc-emphysema and other-SSc (without ILD nor emphysema). The overall mortality of these groups was calculated by Kaplan-Meier method and compared with the stratified log-rank test; Kruskal-Wallis test, t-Student test and χ² test assessed the differences between groups. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

We enrolled 470 patients (1959 patient-year); 15.5 % (73/470) died during the follow-up. Compared with the SSc-ILD and other-SSc, in SSc-CPFE there was a higher prevalence of males, lower anticentromere antibodies prevalence and a more reduced pulmonary function (p<0.05). The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrates a significantly worse survival in patients with SSc-CPFE (HR vs SSc-ILD, vs SSc-emphysema and vs other-SSc, respectively 1.6 (CI 0.5 to 5.2), 1.6 (CI 0.7 to 3.8) and 2.8 (CI 1.2 to 6.6).

Conclusions

CPFE increases the mortality risk in SSc along with a highly impaired lung function. These findings strengthen the importance to take into account emphysema in patients with SSc with ILD.
Case Report: Development of Factor VIII Inhibitor in a Patient with an Uncommon de novo Mutation in the Factor VIII Gene
Authors: Wyatt Kirk D. , Coon Lea M. , Rusk Dawn N. , Rodriguez Vilmarie , Warad Deepti M.
Published: February 2019

The development of factor VIII inhibitors remains a significant clinical challenge in the management of hemophilia A. We present a patient of mixed ethnicity with severe hemophilia A who was found to have a F8 gene hemizygous c.5815G>T mutation resulting in an Ala1939Ser substitution (Ala1920Ser in legacy nomenclature) and possible splice site change that has been reported in only 1 patient previously. He developed an inhibitor shortly after starting replacement recombinant factor VIII (Advate®; Baxalta, Bannockburn, IL, USA) and was successfully treated with immune tolerance therapy. Our report describes the second patient reported to have severe hemophilia due to this mutation and the only case of a factor VIII inhibitor associated with this mutation.
Laparoscopic Resection of an Abdominal Wall Metastasis 5 Years after Primary Colorectal Cancer Resection
Authors: Koyama Ryota , Maeda Yoshiaki , Minagawa Nozomi , Shinohara Toshiki , Hamada Tomonori
Published: February 2019

We report the case of a 65-year-old male with a metachronous abdominal wall metastasis secondary to colorectal cancer. The patient had presented 5 years ago to another facility with a perforated sigmoid colon cancer (pT4a[SE], N0, M0, pStage II), rectal cancer (T2[MP], N0, M0, pStage I), and Fournier gangrene. He had then undergone sigmoidectomy and rectal resection along with S-1 adjuvant chemotherapy. No relapse was observed thereafter. However, currently, 5 years after initial surgery, the patient noticed a palpable mass in the left lower abdomen and was referred to our hospital for further assessment and treatment. Percutaneous echo-guided needle biopsy of the tumor revealed an adenocarcinoma tissue. Following 6 courses of FOLFOX plus cetuximab chemotherapy, laparoscopic resection for abdominal wall metastasis was successfully performed. The resected tissue was pathologically characterized as adenocarcinoma, which was compatible with the recurrence of the primary colorectal carcinoma resected 5 years ago. The abdominal wall metastasis was attributed to the cancer cell implantation secondary to the perforated sigmoid colon cancer treated 5 years ago.
Some Buddhist Donors and Their Families
Authors: v. Hinüber O.
Published: February 2019

From the very beginning the Buddhist order was dependent on donations, which were attractive for laypeople because of the merit thus accumulated. Therefore, names of donors were carefully documented in both, inscriptions, and, as soon as manuscripts are extant, also in colophons. Sometimes joint donations were made by families, whose members are named, under lucky circumstances even with an indication of their mutual relation such as parents, brothers, sisters etc. as participating in the merit made. This allows occasionally glimpses of the composition of average families and estimating their approximate seize in the ancient Indian cultural area. Hardly anything is known otherwise about this facet of Indian social history.
A modification of He’s variational approach using the least square method to nonlinear oscillators
Authors: Arif Muhammad Shoaib , Nawaz Yasir , Bibi Mairaj , Fayyaz Rabia , Naz Mehvish
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we apply the global error minimization method to nonlinear oscillators with fractional terms for determining the first- and second-order approximate frequencies and solutions. The estimation problem is transformed into a minimization problem which leads to a simple yet precise scheme for finding the frequency of oscillation and the solution of the ordinary differential equation.
Head Trauma Exposure in Mixed Martial Arts Varies According to Sex and Weight Class
Authors: Follmer Bruno , Dellagrana Rodolfo Andre , Zehr E. Paul
Published: February 2019

Background:

Brain injury arising from head trauma is a major concern in mixed martial arts (MMA) because knockout (KO) and technical knockout (TKO) are frequent fight outcomes. Previous studies have shown a high incidence of matches ending due to strikes to the head but did not consider weight categories and female fights. This study aimed at analyzing match stoppages in MMA and the exposure to head trauma distinguished by sex and weight categories.

Hypothesis:

The heavier the weight class, the greater the risk and incidence of head trauma will be, regardless of sex.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Publicly available data of 167 MMA events from 1903 fights between 2014 and 2017 were assessed, comprising 8 male and 2 female weight categories.

Results:

The combined KO/TKO rates per 100 athlete-exposures in the middleweight (19.53), light heavyweight (20.8), and heavyweight (26.09) divisions were greater than previously reported for MMA. While stoppage via KO/TKO occurred in 7.9% of combats in the female strawweight division, it occurred in 52.1% of the male heavyweight fights. The male middleweight ( P = 0.001), light heavyweight ( P < 0.001), and heavyweight divisions ( P < 0.001) had an increased risk of KO/TKO due to strikes to the head by 80%, 100%, and 206%, respectively. The risk in the flyweight division decreased 62% ( P = 0.001). All categories were compared with the lightweight division. The female bantamweight category presented a 221% increased risk in matches ending due to KO/TKO compared with the strawweight division ( P = 0.012). Punches to the head were the major technique used to end a combat via KO/TKO, regardless of sex and weight class.

Conclusion:

Head injury risk and incidence varies considerably according to sex and weight category in MMA.

Clinical Relevance:

The analysis of head trauma exposure in MMA athletes should be distinguished according to sex and weight category.
The 1470 nm diode laser with an intralesional fiber device: a proposed solution for the treatment of inflamed and infected keloids
Authors: Li Ke , Nicoli Fabio , Xi Wen Jing , Zhang Zheng , Cui Chunxiao , Al-Mousawi Ahmed , Balzani Alberto , Tong Yun , Zhang Yixin
Published: February 2019

Background

Keloids are the result of abnormal wound healing and often are subject to infections and recurrent inflammation. We present a study conducted with a 1470 nm diode laser using an intralesional optical fiber device for the treatment of inflamed keloid scars. We evaluate its efficacy as a novel alternative method to decrease keloid infection and inflammation.

Methods

The patients who underwent 1470 nm laser treatment from February 2016 to February 2018 at the plastic and reconstructive surgery department of the Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University with keloid accompanying serious local infection and fester were included. Patients took curative effect evaluation before and 1 year after the treatment. The test items included infection frequency in each year; pain, by visual analogue scale (VAS); itch, using VAS; quality of life (QOL), using QOL scale; and blood supply, using PeriCam PSI.

Results

A total of 19 patients (mean age 35.21 years, range 11–66) with history of inflamed keloids with episodes of infection or abscess were enrolled. Patients underwent to a 1470 nm laser therapy for average of 1.16 times. After treatment, infection frequency and blood supply in keloids were reduced (p < 0.001). Pain, itching, and QOL were improved (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The present study shows that 1470 nm fiber laser treatment could improve inflamed keloids fairly well by decreasing inflammation, and a relative stabilization of collagen composition. Therefore, it is an effective minimally invasive scar therapy, but further studies are essential to confirm the present results.
Optimizing the use of digital sensors (non-invasive) for early detection of risk factors for recurrent stroke to improve quality of care: A systematic review
Authors: Kariasa I Made , Nurachmah Elly , Setyowati Setyowati , Koestoer Raldi Artono
Published: February 2019

Background: Improving awareness in patients with stroke to detect risk factors of recurrent stroke has recently become a major challenge for all health professionals in preventing recurrence among stroke survivors. Utilization of advanced technology, such as digital sensors, (a non-invasive device) is among the breakthroughs in detecting the risk of disease and promotes more effective prevention and improves quality of care. This study aims to conduct a systematic review on studies addressing early detection of the risk factors of recurrent stroke through the utilization of digital sensors. 

Methods: A literature search was carried out on articles published between 2011 - 2018 on EBSCO, Elsevier, Science Direct, ProQuest, Springer link, PubMed, MEDLINE, PLoS, and the Journal of Community Nursing. The search identified quantitative research studies on the utilization of digital sensors in cases of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, and cardiac disorders that contributed to stroke recurrence. Each study’s bias was assessed using Review Manager 5.

Results:

Ten articles were analyzed through data extraction. Robust assessment of independent risk factors which provoke recurrent stroke such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, and heart diseases could lead to conservation of health resources. It is very important to monitor these factors. With the development of technology, the potential use of non-invasive monitoring for hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, and heart diseases as risk factors for recurrent stroke events is considered effective because it is easy, simple, low cost, sensitive, and does not cause additional suffering for patients.

Conclusion: A practical and non-invasive method for early detection and monitoring of risk factors may reduce the risk of stroke recurrence among stroke survivors.
SENI eta LOHI (sudurkari galduaren bila) / SENI & LOHI (in search of lost nasal)
Authors: Ariztimuño Lopez Borja
Published: February 2019

Artikulu honek Koldo Mitxelenaren lanez geroztiko berreraiketan (bai eta Mitxelenaren beraren etimologia batzuetan ere) azaltzeke utzi diren zenbait eretzi heltzen die, Akitaniako SENI eta LOHI lekukotasunen bitartez. Alde batetik, sudurkaritasun arrastorik utzi ez duten bokalarteko *n-ak ditugu eta, bestetik, segmentu beraren bilakaeraren xehetasunak, arauaren ezarpenari eta kronologia erlatiboari dagokienez, antzinako konposozio-arauekiko harremana ere kontuan harturik (cf. Igartua 2002). Eztabaidagai horiek erro monosilabikoaren teoriaren barruan (Lakarra 1995 hh) garaturiko etimologia batzuk kolokan jar litzakete, eta areago teoria hankamotz utzi, bisilabo zahar zenbaiten eratorri izaera sistema-eskakizunez harago justifikatu ezean. Hemen, oztopo horiek gainditzeko (eta gainditu beharraren erakusgarri), bi hitz-familia berri proposatzen dira: zahi/zain eta behe/mehe bikoteek osaturikoak.
Herskarien ustezko ahoskabetasun asimilazioa eta euskal herskari zaharren gauzatzea / The alleged voicelessness assimilation and the realization of old Basque stops
Authors: Egurtzegi Ander
Published: February 2019

Euskaraz, herskari ahoskabe (hasperendun) batek jarraituriko herskari ahostun bat horren eraginez ahoskabetu daiteke. Tipologikoki arraroa den aldaketa hau ahoskabetasunaren asimilazio bezala deskribatua izan da. Honakoan, aldaketaren oinarria hasperenketan dagoela proposatzen dut. Analisi honek, aurrekoek ez bezala, herskarien hasperenketaren kokapen aldaketaren eta hots aldaketa galarazi zuten testuinguruen berri ematen du eta euskal herskari zaharren inguruko galdera berriak sortzen ditu. Herskarien egungo oposizioa ahostun vs. ahoskabe bezala deskribatzen dugu. Hala ere, autore gehienek sistema ezberdin bat berreraikitzen dute. Lan honetan, bi herskari serie berreraikitzen ditut: herskari ahoskabe hasperendunak ([spread glottis] ezaugarria dutenak) eta hasperenik gabeko serie bat (espezifikazio laringalik gabekoa), hitz hasieran hasperenik gabeko herskari ahoskabe bezala gauzatzen zena eta hitz erdian pasiboki ahostundu egiten zena.
Reflexiones sobre arqueología, lingüística e iglesias rupestres de época tardoantigua / Considerations on archaeology, linguistics and rock churches of Late Antiquity
Authors: Azkarate Agustín
Published: February 2019

Late Antiquity is one of the most debated periods in the history of Wasconia. This text deals with some of these debates: the original or late-adopted condition of the Basque language in the current territories of the Basque Country, the historical interpretations of the custom of depositing grave goods, or the chronology of the rock churches of southern Álava. The idea of Basque territories as frontier spaces is highlighted, understood as an unstable and permeable area of human mobility; as a space for negotiation, alliance, exchange; as a liminal place between cultures and political powers; as «margins» whose signifying quality is their political, anthropological, cultural or linguistic creativity.
"Orhiko xoria Orhin lakhet": izen/adjektibo psikologikoak, gai lokatiboak eta predikazioa / Psych nouns and adjectives, PPthemes and predication (or a leopard cannot change its spots)
Authors: Fernández Beatriz , Berro Ane
Published: February 2019

Belleti & Rizzi (1988) lanetik aurrera, asko dira hizkuntzalaritza teorikoak predikatu psikologikoez eman dizkigun irakaspenak, baina ez dira horrenbeste izen edo adjektibo psikologikoek sortzen duten predikazioarekin lotutakoak. Adger & Ramchand-ek (2006) Eskoziako gaelikoaz egindako azterketa da salbuespen horietako bat. Hizkuntza honetan, egoera psikologikoa adierazten duten izenak daude, eta esperimentatzailea eta gaia, izen horiekin batera datozen preposizio sintagmak izaten dira. Euskaraz ere izen eta adjektibo psikologikoak daude, laket adibidez, eta gai lokatiboarekin batera jasotzen dira, hots, postposizio sintagma batekin. Esperimentatzailea, berriz, absolutiboarekin, ergatiboarekin edo datiboarekin marka daiteke egitura zein den. Lan honetan erakutsiko dugunez, gai lokatiboak osagai bakarra osatzen du izen eta adjektibo psikologikoarekin, bai gaelikoz bai euskaraz; ez, aldiz, esperimentatzaileak, zeina Predikatu Sintagma (Bowers 1993) baino goragoko buru bati zor zaion: Aplikatiboari, datiboaz markatzen denean, dela Adger & Ramchand-en Jabetza Aplikatibo burua, dela Pylkkänen-en Goi Aplikatiboa 2008 [2002], eta Boz buruari (Kratzer 1996, Berro 2015) esperimentatzailea ergatiboaz markatzen denean. Lana, Joakin Gorrotxategi irakasleari eskaini nahi diogu. Ez gara ikerkuntza eremu berekoak, baina eremu batetik bestera dagoen aldea gorabehera, hizkuntza da hiruron lurralde miresgarria, eta esaera zaharrak dioen bezala, Orhiko xoria, Orhin lakhet.