bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted panel sequencing in adult patients with left ventricular non‐compaction reveals a large genetic heterogeneity
Authors: Richard Pascale , Ader Flavie , Roux Maguelonne , Donal Erwan , Eicher Jean‐Christophe , Aoutil Nadia , Huttin Olivier , Selton‐Suty Christine , Coisne Damien , Jondeau Guillaume , Damy Thibaud , Mansencal Nicolas , Casalta Anne‐Claire , Michel Nicolas , Haentjens Julie , Faivre Laurence , Lavoute Cecile , Nguyen Karine , Tregouët David‐Alexandre , Habib Gilbert , Charron Philippe
Published: November 2018

Left ventricular non‐compaction (LVNC) is a cardiomyopathy that may be of genetic origin; however, few data are available about the yield of mutation, the spectrum of genes and allelic variations. The aim of this study was to better characterize the genetic spectrum of isolated LVNC in a prospective cohort of 95 unrelated adult patients through the molecular investigation of 107 genes involved in cardiomyopathies and arrhythmias.

Fifty‐two pathogenic or probably pathogenic variants were identified in 40 patients (42%) including 31 patients (32.5%) with single variant and 9 patients with complex genotypes (9.5%). Mutated patients tended to have younger age at diagnosis than patients with no identified mutation. The most prevalent genes were TTN, then HCN4, MYH7, and RYR2. The distribution includes 13 genes previously reported in LVNC and 10 additional candidate genes.

Our results show that LVNC is basically a genetic disease and support genetic counseling and cardiac screening in relatives. There is a large genetic heterogeneity, with predominant TTN null mutations and frequent complex genotypes. The gene spectrum is close to the one observed in dilated cardiomyopathy but with specific genes such as HCN4. We also identified new candidate genes that could be involved in this sub‐phenotype of cardiomyopathy.
Teamwork using strain imaging in the echocardiographic assessment of right ventricular systolic function: A cardiac magnetic resonance imaging correlation study
Authors: Xu Bo , Grimm Richard A. , Jellis Christine L. , Collier Patrick , Desai Milind Y. , Phelan Dermot , Thamilarasan Maran , Rodriguez Luis Leonardo , Flamm Scott D. , Sato Kimi , Harb Serge C. , Popovic Zoran B.
Published: November 2018

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate whether conventional echocardiographic assessment of right ventricular (RV) systolic function can be improved by the addition of RV strain imaging. Additionally, we also aimed to investigate whether dedicated reading sessions and education can improve echocardiographic interpretation of RV systolic function.

Methods

Readers of varying expertise (staff echocardiologists, advanced cardiovascular imaging fellows, sonographers) assessed RV systolic function. In session 1, 20 readers graded RV function of 19 cases, using conventional measures. After dedicated education, in session 2, the same cases were reassessed, with the addition of RV strains. In session 3, 18 readers graded RV function of 20 additional cases, incorporating RV strains. Computer simulations were performed to obtain 230 random teams. RV ejection fraction (RVEF) by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) was the reference standard.

Results

Correlation between RV GLS and CMR‐derived RVEF was moderate: Spearman's rho: 0.70, n = 19, P < 0.001 (first two sessions); 0.55, n = 20, P < 0.05 (third session). Individual readers’ assessment moderately correlated with RVEF (Spearman's rho first session: 0.67 ± 0.2; second session: 0.61 ± 0.2; and third session: 0.68 ± 0.09). Team estimates of RV systolic function showed consistently better correlation with RVEF, which were improved further by averaging across all readers. RV strain parameters influenced echocardiographic interpretation, with a net reclassification index of 8.0 ± 3.6% (P = 0.014).

Conclusions

The RV strain parameters showed moderate correlations with CMR‐derived RVEF and appropriately influenced echocardiographic interpretation of RV systolic function. “Wisdom of the crowd” applied by averaging echocardiographic assessments of RV systolic function across teams of echocardiography readers, further improved echocardiographic assessment of RV systolic function.
Disentangling elevational richness: a multi‐scale hierarchical Bayesian occupancy model of Colorado ant communities
Authors: Szewczyk Tim M. , McCain Christy M.
Published: November 2018

Understanding the forces that shape the distribution of biodiversity across spatial scales is central in ecology and critical to effective conservation. To assess effects of possible richness drivers, we sampled ant communities on four elevational transects across two mountain ranges in Colorado, USA, with seven or eight sites on each transect and twenty repeatedly sampled pitfall trap pairs at each site each for a total of 90 d. With a multi‐scale hierarchical Bayesian community occupancy model, we simultaneously evaluated the effects of temperature, productivity, area, habitat diversity, vegetation structure, and temperature variability on ant richness at two spatial scales, quantifying detection error and genus‐level phylogenetic effects. We fit the model with data from one mountain range and tested predictive ability with data from the other mountain range. In total, we detected 105 ant species, and richness peaked at intermediate elevations on each transect. Species‐specific thermal preferences drove richness at each elevation with marginal effects of site‐scale productivity. Trap‐scale richness was primarily influenced by elevation‐scale variables along with a negative impact of canopy cover. Soil diversity had a marginal negative effect while daily temperature variation had a marginal positive effect. We detected no impact of area, land cover diversity, trap‐scale productivity, or tree density. While phylogenetic relationships among genera had little influence, congeners tended to respond similarly. The hierarchical model, trained on data from the first mountain range, predicted the trends on the second mountain range better than multiple regression, reducing root mean squared error up to 65%. Compared to a more standard approach, this modeling framework better predicts patterns on a novel mountain range and provides a nuanced, detailed evaluation of ant communities at two spatial scales.
Short‐term effect of 915‐MHz microwave treatments on soil physicochemical and biological properties
Authors: Maynaud G. , Baudoin E. , Bourillon J. , Duponnois R. , Cleyet‐Marel J.‐C. , Brunel B.
Published: November 2018

To control the soil seed bank of invasive plants with microwaves represents an alternative method to chemical treatments, but it could alter soil quality. Microwave effects were investigated on 17 soil physicochemical and biological properties. Four 915‐MHz microwave treatments combining power and duration of exposure were applied on alluvial soil from a grassland usingFestucaseeds as an internal standard to evaluate the efficiency of sterilization. Two treatments, 2 kW‐8 and 4 kW‐4 min, completely inhibitedFestucaseed germination and caused the soil temperature to reach at least 80°C. Conversely, the other treatments, 2 kW‐4 and 4 kW‐2 min, failed to affect seed germination while raising the temperature to 50–60°C. Microbial biomass, the density of culturable heterotrophic bacteria and fluorescent Pseudomonads as well as fluorescein di‐acetate hydrolysis decreased significantly by 2.7‐, 1.1‐, 1.4‐ and 5.1‐fold compared with the control, respectively, following the 2 kW‐8 and 4 kW‐4 min treatments. These treatments also increased dissolved organic carbon and inorganic phosphorus contents by 1.6‐ and 1.2‐fold, respectively. In contrast, nitrate increased only (about 140%) in the soils under the 2 kW‐4 and 4 kW‐2 min conditions. Furthermore, the growth ofMedicago truncatulaGaertn. seedlings transplanted in microwave‐treated soils under the 2 kW‐8 and 4 kW‐4 min conditions was not impaired despite the reduction in total nitrogen and the microbial population and smaller numbers of nodules. These results suggest that soil seed bank sterilization by microwaves that is 100% effective alters soil microbial indicators more strongly than chemical treatments without compromising the early growth stages of transplantedMedicagoplants.

Highlights

Effects of microwave seed sterilization on soil physicochemical and biological properties.

Microbial properties were more sensitive than chemical ones.

Microbial biomass, bacterial density, hydrolase activity and root nodulation were reduced.

Soluble carbon, nitrate and phosphorus increased depending on treatment effectiveness.
The anatomy of uncertainty for soil pH measurements and predictions: Implications for modellers and practitioners
Authors: Libohova Z. , Seybold C. , Adhikari K. , Wills S. , Beaudette D. , Peaslee S. , Lindbo D. , Owens P. R.
Published: November 2018

Statistical validation of spatial predictions of soil properties requires assessment of errors against measured values. The objective of this study was to assess the size of errors in the measurement of soil pH from different sources in the United States of America national databases and implications of the size of errors for prediction, validation and management decision making under uncertain conditions. Error sources included measurement methods, laboratory conditions, pedotransfer functions, database manipulations, location accuracy, and spatial and polygon methods of interpolation. The databases consisted of measured soil pH values from the US National Cooperative Soil Survey Characterization Database (NCSS–SCDB) and estimated values from US Soil Survey Geographic (SSURGO) and State Soil Geographic (STATSGO2) databases. The degree of agreement between measurement methods ranged from poor to substantial, with Lin's concordance correlation coefficients (ρc) varying from 0.83 (pH 1:1W against 1:5CaCl2) to 0.95 (pH 1:1W against pH 1:5W) and root mean square error (RMSE) varying from 0.27 to 0.43. The degree of agreement between pH 1:1W, 1:2CaCl2 and mid‐infrared spectroscopy (MIR) ranged from poor to moderate. The RMSE for MIR was 0.40 for pH 1:1W and 0.32 for soil pH 1:2CaCl2. The RMSE for between‐laboratory reproducibility varied from 0.50 (pH 1:1W) to 0.68 (pH 1:2CaCl2) and was greater than within‐laboratory reproducibility (pH 1:1W, 0.34; pH 1:2 CaCl2, 0.22) and repeatability (pH 1:1W, 0.19; pH 1:2CaCl2, 0.04). The RMSE for the relations for profile depth slicing (weighted mean against equal‐area spline) was 0.36. The RMSE for the relation between soil pH 1:1W for the Global Positioning System and Public Land Survey System was 0.57. Predictions based on polygon or spatial interpolation had the largest RMSEs, 0.78 and 0.62, respectively. Soil liming recommendations based on 0.1 pH increments do not reflect error measurements or the uncertainty of spatial prediction. Although it was not possible to establish consistent trends in the size of error (progressively increasing from measurement to aggregation), its assessment can improve modelling and management at various scales.

Highlights

We assessed sources of errors and uncertainty for measured and spatial predictions of soil pH.

The smallest error was reported for measured pH (0.06).

Polygon or spatial interpolation resulted in the largest error (0.68).

Differences in error size influenced rates of liming and cost.
N‐acetylcysteine prevents glutathione decrease and does not interfere with paracetamol antinociceptive effect at therapeutic dosage: a randomized double‐blind controlled trial in healthy subjects
Authors: Pickering Gisèle , Macian Nicolas , Papet Isabelle , Dualé Christian , Coudert Catherine , Pereira Bruno
Published: November 2018

Paracetamol (APAP) may lead to hepatic changes even at therapeutic dosages. Glutathione (GSH) plays a pivotal role in APAP metabolism as it allows the detoxification of a toxic metabolite. N‐Acetylcysteine (NAC) is APAP antidote, is also largely used as a mucoactive drug and is often associated with APAP. This study aims at evaluating if 1‐ NAC modifies APAP pain efficacy and 2‐ NAC prevents glutathione depletion with APAP at therapeutic doses. This double‐blind randomized controlled study (NCT02206178) was carried out in 24 healthy volunteers. APAP was given for 4 days (1 g ×4 daily) with NAC or with placebo. Thermal pain tests, whole blood GSH, and hepatic enzymes (ASAT, ALAT) were measured before (D0) and after (D4) oral APAP‐NAC or APAP‐placebo intake. anova for repeated measures adapted to cross‐overdesign was performed and a two‐tailed type I error was fixed at 5%. The primary endpoint was the area under the curve (0–240 min) of pain intensity (Numerical Scale) after thermal pain stimulation using Pathway‐Medoc®. APAP antinociceptive effect was similar in both groups. GSH was maintained to its baseline value in the APAP/NAC group but diminished in the APAP/placebo group (P = 0.033). This study shows for the first time that APAP antinociceptive effectiveness is not influenced by NAC. It also shows that the effect of APAP at therapeutic dosage on GSH may be counteracted by NAC. These issues are particularly important for patients as APAP is often prescribed for years as a first‐line pain treatment and further trials in patients are now warranted.
Changes in serum levels of leucine‐rich α2‐glycoprotein predict prognosis in primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Hayashi Manabu , Abe Kazumichi , Fujita Masashi , Okai Ken , Takahashi Atsushi , Ohira Hiromasa
Published: November 2018

Aims

A non‐invasive biomarker for patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is needed. The association between leucine‐rich α2 glycoprotein (LRG) and PBC has not been investigated. We aimed to assess the predictive value of LRG for the development of cirrhosis‐related conditions in PBC.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed clinical data of 129 individuals with biopsy‐confirmed PBC. Leucine‐rich α2 glycoprotein was analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays using stored sera at biopsy (n = 129) and after treatment (n = 80).

Results

Levels of LRG decreased significantly after treatment (55.8 μg/mL vs. 39.8 μg/mL, P < 0.001). Neither LRG nor delta‐LRG was associated with transaminase or histological findings. Delta‐LRG >0 (hazard ratio [HR] 4.61, P = 0.013), delta‐LRG >0 and an aspartate aminotransferase/platelet ratio index (APRI) >0.76 (HR 458, P < 0.001) were associated with the development of a cirrhosis‐related condition. Patients with a delta‐LRG >0 and an APRI >0.76 had a significantly increased rate of developing cirrhosis‐related conditions (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Changes in LRG levels after treatment predicted PBC prognosis but were not associated with histological stage. Changes in LRG in addition to the APRI could be a useful combination of tools for clinicians as a non‐invasive biomarker.
In vitro bioaccessibility of avenanthramides in cookies made with malted oat flours
Authors: Ninfali Paolino , Mari Michele , Meli Maria A. , Roselli Carla , Antonini Elena
Published: November 2018

This study evaluated the effects of malting and in vitro digestion on the bioaccessibility of six avenanthramides (AVNs), soluble phenols (SPs) and antioxidant capacity (ORAC) in cookies (3B, 4B, 5B) prepared with oat flour malted for three (M3), four (M4), five (M5) days, respectively. Control cookies (CTRL) were made with non‐malted oat flour (M0). Five‐days malting increased the AVN content of native kernels up to 10‐folds, whereas SPs and ORAC tripled their values. After the in vitro digestion, AVNs showed their bioaccessibility in the following order: 5B > 4B > 3B, with a recovery of 1703 μg AVNs per 50 g portion of 5B cookies, compared to 135 μg of CTRL. Results showed that the inclusion of 27% malted oat flour was effective to formulate functional cookies with satisfactory technological properties, high AVN content and bioaccessibility.
Energy transfer process and temperature‐dependent photoluminescence of PbS quantum dot‐doped glasses
Authors: Huang Xiongjian , Peng Zixing , Guo Qianyi , Song Xiaoqian , Qiu Jianrong , Dong Guoping
Published: November 2018

PbS quantum dot (QD)‐doped glasses were fabricated through melt‐quenching method. After heat treatment schedule, uniform QDs were precipitated in the glasses and near‐infrared emission covering 900‐1700 nm was obtained under excitation. From photoluminescence (PL) spectra and lifetime decay curves, the whole emission band of QD‐doped glasses consisted of emission from the 1S‐1S state and the trap state. While using excitation with higher energy, the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of QD‐doped glasses broadened because smaller QDs were excited. Energy transfer process among QDs was revealed by measuring the lifetime of different emission bands in PL spectrum and the energy transferred from smaller QDs with broader bandgap to bigger QDs with narrow bandgap. Temperature‐dependent PL and the corresponding lifetime decay curves of PbS QD‐doped glasses were analyzed. Temperature‐dependent bandgap structure of PbS QDs was obtained by using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results here give deep insight into optical properties of PbS QD‐doped glasses and it is beneficial to design and develop high‐performance QD‐based optoelectronic devices in theory.
Enhanced piezoelectric properties of Sr(1.7)(Na0.5Bi0.5)0.3Bi4Ti5O18 ceramics in the system Sr(2−x)(Na0.5Bi0.5)xBi4Ti5O18 (where 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5)
Authors: Shet Tukaram , Bhimireddi Rajasekhar , Varma Kalidindi B. R.
Published: November 2018

Fine powders synthesized via sol‐gel route were employed to fabricate Sr(2−x)(Na0.5Bi0.5)xBi4Ti5O18 (SNBT, where x = 0, 0.1, 0.25, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5) ceramics. The composition (x)‐dependent structural changes associated with SNBT ceramics were analyzed using X‐ray powder diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopic techniques. Average grain size analyses carried out on the SNBT ceramics by scanning electron microscopy revealed an important role played by the dopants in inhibiting the grain growth. Dielectric constants and the Curie temperature of the ceramics were found to decrease and increase, respectively, with increase in x. The increase in Curie temperature with increase in x was attributed to the decrease in the tolerance factor. The specific composition (x = 0.3) of the SNBT ceramics exhibited improved piezo‐ and ferroelectric properties associated with a higher Curie temperature (569 K). The piezoelectric coefficient (d33) and the planar electromechanical coupling coefficient (kp) of SNBT(x = 0.3) were enhanced by 25% and 42%, respectively, as compared to the undoped ceramics.
Evolutionary history of the arid climate‐adapted Helichrysum (Asteraceae: Gnaphalieae): Cape origin and association between annual life‐history and low chromosome numbers
Authors: Andrés‐Sánchez Santiago , Verboom G. Anthony , Galbany‐Casals Mercè , Bergh Nicola G.
Published: November 2018

The basal grade of the large, widely‐distributed Helichrysum‐Anaphalis‐Pseudognaphalium (HAP) clade (Asteraceae, Gnaphalieae) comprises exclusively southern African taxa. These species possess unusual trait combinations relative to the remaining species (a high proportion of annuals, unusual capitulum arrangement, and low base chromosome numbers). A time‐proportional Bayesian phylogenetic hypothesis is generated from nuclear ribosomal sequences from 110 accessions. Ancestral area, life history, and base chromosome number are reconstructed using maximum likelihood, and correlations between life‐history and chromosome number are tested in a phylogenetic framework. The results show that the HAP clade probably originated and experienced initial diversification in the Greater Cape Floristic Region in the Early to Middle Miocene. The ancestor of the HAP clade is inferred to have been perennial with x = 7 base chromosome number. Several independent acquisitions of the annual life‐history are inferred, accompanied by reductions to x = 4 and 5. A single reversal to perennial life history is associated with a subsequent change back to the state of x = 7. Origin and early diversification within the HAP clade follows the pattern of multi‐area seeded radiations within southern Africa, with subsequent migrations to the rest of Africa and the Northern Hemisphere. Occupation of drier habitats with shorter growing seasons may select for the acquisition of a shorter life‐cycle, and our results indicate a strong association between short life‐cycle and reduced chromosome number.
Monkeyflowers (Mimulus): new model for plant developmental genetics and evo‐devo
Authors: Yuan Yao‐Wu
Published: November 2018

Contents

Summary
694

I.
Introduction
694

II.
The system
695

III.
Regulation of carotenoid pigmentation
695

IV.
Formation of periodic pigmentation patterns
696

V.
Developmental genetics of corolla tube formation and elaboration
697

VI.
Molecular basis of floral trait variation underlying pollinator shift
698

VII.
Outlook
699

Acknowledgements
699

References
699

Monkeyflowers (Mimulus) have long been recognized as a classic ecological and evolutionary model system. However, only recently has it been realized that this system also holds great promise for studying the developmental genetics and evo‐devo of important plant traits that are not found in well‐established model systems such as Arabidopsis. Here, I review recent progress in four different areas of plant research enabled by this new model, including transcriptional regulation of carotenoid biosynthesis, formation of periodic pigmentation patterns, developmental genetics of corolla tube formation and elaboration, and the molecular basis of floral trait divergence underlying pollinator shift. These examples suggest that Mimulus offers ample opportunities to make exciting discoveries in plant development and evolution.
Child and adolescent psychiatry in the Far East: A 5‐year follow up on the Consortium on Academic Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in the Far East (CACAP‐FE) study
Authors: Hirota Tomoya , Guerrero Anthony , Sartorius Norman , Fung Daniel , Leventhal Bennett , Ong Say H. , Kaneko Hitoshi , Apinuntavech Suporn , Bennett Abang , Bhoomikumar Jegannathan , Cheon Keun‐Ah , Davaasuren Oyunsuren , Gau Susan , Hall Brian , Koren Evgeny , van Nguyen Tuan , Oo Tin , Tan Susan , Tateno Masaru , Thikeo Manivone , Wiguna Tjhin , Wong Mark , Zheng Yi , Skokauskas Norbert
Published: November 2018

Aim

Data pertaining to child and adolescent psychiatry (CAP) training systems are limited as extant research has mostly been derived from one‐time data collection. This 5‐year follow‐up survey collects updated information on CAP training systems in the Far East, allowing for the tracking of system changes over the past 5 years.

Methods

Data were obtained from 18 countries, or functionally self‐governing areas, in the Far East, 17 of which were also included in the original study. An online questionnaire was completed by leading CAP professionals in each country. Questions were expanded in the present study to capture the contents of CAP training.

Results

When compared to data from the original study, there has been progress in CAP training systems in the last 5 years. Specifically, there has been an increase in the number of countries with CAP training programs and national guidelines for the training. In addition, the number of CAP departments/divisions affiliated with academic institutions/universities has increased. Findings from 12 of 18 countries in the present study provide data on clinical contents. All informants of the present study reported the need for more child and adolescent psychiatrists and allied professionals.

Conclusion

Despite progress in CAP training systems over the last 5 years, the need for more professionals in child and adolescent mental health care in all the relevant areas in this region have yet to be adequately addressed. Continued national efforts and international collaborations are imperative to developing and sustaining new CAP training systems while facilitating improvements in existing programs.
Becoming Activists: Jewish–Palestinian Encounters and the Mechanisms of Social Change Engagement
Authors: Ross Karen
Published: November 2018

Studies of youth‐focused encounter initiatives have long focused on the potential of such endeavors to shift the attitudes of participants. In recent years, scholarship has begun t'o address whether encounters can shift behaviors, as well—particularly in terms of motivating continued engagement in peacebuilding and social change initiatives. Yet studies have not addressed the question of how this shift occurs, that is, what mechanisms lead from encounter participation to continued social change engagement. This article draws on long‐standing research with a veteran Israeli encounter organization, Sadaka Reut, to explore what is significant in making the participation–continued engagement link. Its analysis points to personalized learning and Sadaka Reut's binational framework as particularly salient, but also addresses the inherent tensions in an approach aiming to foster critical awareness among youth who are members of both the dominant and oppressed ethnonational groups in a long‐standing conflict context.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DQA1*04:05 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Cargou Marine , Ralazamahaleo Mamy , Blouin Laura , Guidicelli Gwendaline , Visentin Jonathan
Published: November 2018

HLA‐DQA1*04:05 differs from HLA‐DQA1*04:01:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution at codon 26 in exon 2.
Identification of the novel HLA‐A*30:02:01:04 allele in a Saudi individual
Authors: Gattan Manal , Aloufi Faisal , Alanazi Hanan , Alqasem Afnan , Hajeer Ali H.
Published: November 2018

HLA‐A*30:02:01:04 differs from HLA‐A*30:02:01:01 by a single nucleotide substitution (G ➔ C) at position 3222.
The Importance of Assessment Literacy for Language Faculty
Authors: DiBiase‐Lubrano Mary Jo
Published: November 2018

Language testing is an integral part of teaching and learning, yet most language faculty do not receive adequate training for developing tests (Taylor, ). Most have advanced degrees in literary and cultural studies in the target language but often have insufficient training in pedagogy and assessment. This shortcoming is alarming when we consider the advances in research in second language acquisition and, similarly, in the knowledge of how test scores should validly predict communicative ability rather than just reflect the knowledge of language features. Individual and language‐specific departmental consultations can inform teaching and testing practices and ultimately benefit student learning (Scarino, ). This article intends to show how assessment literacy for language faculty is supported at a U.S. university language center and how studies in assessment literacy effectiveness were carried out using survey responses. Instructors were open to revising their assessment practices when informed of fundamental measurement principles and by knowledge of test validity. The survey responses provide useful information on the testing topics that had the most meaningful impact on assessment practices and highlight areas still in need of attention.
Adapting Instruction and Assessment to Increase Student Proficiency in the Secondary German Classroom
Authors: Buder Laura J.
Published: November 2018

Over the last few years, I have seen a significant impact on student learning from improving and adapting my instruction in three main areas: backward designing instruction for target proficiency levels, transitioning to standards‐based grading, and implementing performance‐based assessments that focus on proficiency. These strategies have not only moved my students further along the path to proficiency but have also had the added benefit of increasing student ownership in the learning process, thereby improving student behavior in the classroom. This article offers practical steps to implement the strategies that have revolutionized my classroom and had the greatest impact on my students' learning.
Mg‐dechelatase is involved in the formation of photosystem II but not in chlorophyll degradation in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Chen Ying , Shimoda Yousuke , Yokono Makio , Ito Hisashi , Tanaka Ayumi
Published: November 2018

The STAY‐GREEN (SGR) gene encodes Mg‐dechelatase which catalyzes the conversion of chlorophyll (Chl) a to pheophytin (Pheo) a. This reaction is the first and most important regulatory step in the Chl degradation pathway. Conversely, Pheo a is an indispensable molecule in photosystem (PS) II, suggesting the involvement of SGR in the formation of PSII. To investigate the physiological functions of SGR, we isolated Chlamydomonas sgr mutants by screening an insertion‐mutant library. The sgr mutants had reduced maximum quantum efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) and reduced Pheo a levels. These phenotypes were complemented by the introduction of the Chlamydomonas SGR gene. Blue Native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting analysis showed that although PSII levels were reduced in the sgr mutants, PSI and light‐harvesting Chl a/b complex levels were unaffected. Under nitrogen starvation conditions, Chl degradation proceeded in the sgr mutants as in the wild type, indicating that ChlamydomonasSGR is not required for Chl degradation and primarily contributes to the formation of PSII. In contrast, in the Arabidopsis sgr triple mutant (sgr1 sgr2 sgrL), which completely lacks SGR activity, PSII was synthesized normally. These results suggest that the Arabidopsis SGR participates in Chl degradation while the ChlamydomonasSGR participates in PSII formation despite having the same catalytic property.
5 protein-based signature for resectable lung squamous cell carcinoma improves the prognostic performance of the TNM staging
Authors: Martínez-Terroba Elena , Behrens Carmen , Agorreta Jackeline , Monsó Eduard , Millares Laura , Felip Enriqueta , Rosell Rafael , Ramirez José Luis , Remirez Ana , Torre Wenceslao , Gil-Bazo Ignacio , Idoate Miguel A , de-Torres Juan P , Pio Ruben , Wistuba Ignacio I , Pajares María J , Montuenga Luis M
Published: November 2018

Introduction

Prognostic biomarkers have been very elusive in the lung squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and none is currently being used in the clinical setting. We aimed to identify and validate the clinical utility of a protein-based prognostic signature to stratify patients with early lung SCC according to their risk of recurrence or death.

Methods

Patients were staged following the new International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) staging criteria (eighth edition, 2018). Three independent retrospective cohorts of 117, 96 and 105 patients with lung SCC were analysed to develop and validate a prognostic signature based on immunohistochemistry for five proteins.

Results

We identified a five protein-based signature whose prognostic index (PI) was an independent and significant predictor of disease-free survival (DFS) (p<0.001; HR=4.06, 95% CI 2.18 to 7.56) and overall survival (OS) (p=0.004; HR=2.38, 95% CI 1.32 to 4.31). The prognostic capability of PI was confirmed in an external multi-institutional cohort for DFS (p=0.042; HR=2.01, 95% CI 1.03 to 3.94) and for OS (p=0.031; HR=2.29, 95% CI 1.08 to 4.86). Moreover, PI added complementary information to the newly established IASLC TNM 8th edition staging system. A combined prognostic model including both molecular and anatomical (TNM) criteria improved the risk stratification in both cohorts (p<0.05).

Conclusion

We have identified and validated a clinically feasible protein-based prognostic model that complements the updated TNM system allowing more accurate risk stratification. This signature may be used as an advantageous tool to improve the clinical management of the patients, allowing the reduction of lung SCC mortality through a more accurate knowledge of the patient’s potential outcome.
Clinical and epidemiological profile of hypertensive patients at the primary health care level in the state of Alagoas
Authors: Ferreira Raphaela Costa , Padilha Bruna Merten , Pedrosa Yasmin Eugênia Santos e Silva , Ferreira Rosielle Batista , Cabral Poliana Coelho , Vasconcelos Sandra Mary Lima
Published: November 2018

Study design: This was a cross-sectional, population-based and descriptive study. Study objective: To describe the clinical and epidemiological profile of hypertensive patients at the primary health care of Alagoas state. Methods: This study was carried out in the Basic Health Units of 12 cities of Alagoas, between 2014 and 2015, with hypertensive individuals between 20 and 60 years, of both gender. Socioeconomic, demographic, clinical, lifestyle, anthropometric and biochemical data were collected. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics by Epi-Info version 7. Results: We evaluated 645 individuals. Of these, 86.2% were women, 62.3% had uncontrolled blood pressure, 41.9% had low educational level, 11.1% were smokers, 26.3% were alcohol users, 64.7% were sedentary, 48.4% were obese, 73.6% had high cardiovascular risk, according to waist circumference; 54.4% and 47.2% had elevated total cholesterol and triglycerides, respectively. Conclusion: Since hypertension is an important public health problem that has serious consequences, the knowledge of the hypertensive population profile of Alagoas will facilitate the treatment for the health of patients with this condition.
Tumor necrosis factor alpha -308 promoter polymorphism and insulin resistance inoverweight and obese adolescent
Authors: Menezes Carlos Alberto , Andrade Luís Jesuíno de Oliveira , Pinheiro Jordian Jorge , Correia Gustavo Soares , Melo Paulo Roberto Santana de , Rios-Santos Fabrício
Published: November 2018

Study Model/Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study with a sample of 104 overweight/obese adolescents, with a mean weight of 52.98 kg ± 22.00, mean age 16.01 ± 2.91 years. We used the homeostasis model assessment-estimated IR (HOMA-IR) index to quantify the insulin resistance (IR). The -308 polymorphism of the promoter of TNF-α was performed using polymerase chain reactionrestriction fragment length polymorphism technique. Statistical analysis of the quantitative measures was conducted with a student’s t-test. For correlation between the genotype and alleles, we used chisquare statistical test. To test the heterogeneity between HOMA-IR and the anthropometric parameters the Mann-Whitney test was used, associated with the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The association between -308G/A polymorphism of the promoter of TNF-α and HOMA-IR was tested by univariate linear regression analysis. Objective: Investigate the association between -308G/A polymorphism in the promoter of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and susceptibility to IR in overweight/obese adolescents. Results: The prevalence of IR was 18.30% according to the HOMA-IR. The frequency of GG, AG and AA genotype was found 75 (72.12%), 28 (26.92%) and 1.0 (0.96%) respectively. Allele frequencies for guanine (G) and adenine (A) were 178 (85.58%) and 30 (14.42%), respectively. The allele A as well as GA and AA genotype contributed to increase RI (14.42% and 27.88% respectively). Conclusion: The - 308 G/A polymorphism of the promoter of TNF-α can contribute to the IR increase in obese adolescents with GA and AA genotypes.
Efeito redutor do Viagra (Citrato de Sildenafila) sobre a frequência de tumores epiteliais induzidos pela Doxorrubicina em Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Silva Samuel Campos , Santos Juliene César dos , Orsolin Priscila Capelari
Published: November 2018

O consumo de medicamentos está entre as principais causas de desenvolvimento do câncer. Faz-se, então, necessário investigar os efeitos de drogas amplamente consumidas no mundo, como é o caso do Viagra® (Citrato de Sildenafila - CS). O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o efeito modulador do CS na carcinogênese induzida pela Doxorrubicina (DXR), por meio do Teste para Detecção de Clones de Tumores Epiteliais em Drosophila melanogaster. Foram utilizadas duas linhagens mutantes do organismo teste (wts e mwh) no intuito de obter larvas heterozigotas wts +/+ mwh, que foram tratadas com três concentrações de CS: 10 mM, 20 mM e 40 mM, isoladamente e em associação com a DXR. Constatou-se que o CS não exerceu efeito carcinogênico nas concentrações isoladamente avaliadas. Quando em associação com a DXR, propiciou efeito redutor sobre as frequências dos tumores induzidos por ela, conferindo papel anticarcinogênico ao CS. Acredita-se que este efeito seja devido a uma supra-regula- ção da via de apoptose dependente de caspase e ao impedimento do crescimento celular promovido pelo fármaco utilizado. As evidências obtidas comprovam o efeito protetor tumoral atribuído ao Viagra® nas condições experimentais propostas.
Esgarçamento do futuro
Authors: Zorek Bruno De Macedo
Published: November 2018

Ao se acompanhar as representações de futuro da cidade de São Paulo produzidas ao longo da década de 1950, percebe-se uma importante mudança no sentimento hegemônico em relação a ele. No início da década, o futuro da cidade era visto com otimismo e dominantemente representado como o de um crescimento contínuo e ilimitado. No final da década, em contraste, continuava-se imaginando que o destino da metrópole seria crescer indefinidamente, mas isso passara a ser motivo de preocupação e pessimismo. A passagem de um sentimento ao outro é marcada, em um primeiro momento, pelo acirramento das discussões entre urbanistas que ocupavam posições importantes no campo político. No entanto, foi a partir da entrada vigorosadas ciências humanas nos debates sobre a cidade, que o pessimismo se consolidou como sentimento dominante. Como se procura argumentar ao longo do artigo, amudança dos ânimos não foi fruto exclusivo da argumentação dos cientistas sociais e veio acompanhada de transformações na divisão do trabalho de dominação: figuras antes importantes nos debates sobre a cidade perderam espaço para um grupo de novos intelectuais, que se impuseram e passaram a controlar o debate público sobre São Paulo.
Aspectos da individualidade em personagens de super-heróis
Authors: Martins Cristiana D.
Published: November 2018

Em vista do destaque e da relevância que as personagens de super-heróis têm tido no atual cenário cinematográfico e da compreensão do cinema como um objeto específico e privilegiado para análise do mundo social, este artigo visa compreender como, nessas personagens, estão construídos dilemas e anseios relativos à questão do indivíduo e da individualidade na atualidade. Tomando-se os filmes como capazes de fornecer pistas para a análise sociológica, como elabora Pierre Sorlin em sua proposta para estudos sobre cinema, a metodologia privilegiada na investigação é a análise interna do filme Capitão América – O Primeiro Vingador (Captain America: The First Avenger, 2011).
Apresentação: Um espectro ronda o Brasil (à direita)
Authors: Fernandes Dmitri Cerboncini , Messenberg Debora
Published: November 2018

Na primeira parte deste texto introdutório, refletimos sobre a ausência histórica de trabalhos sociológicos que lidem com o fenômeno do pertencimento à direita no Brasil. Ensaiamos, na segunda parte, algumas hipóteses explicativas para tal situação, bem como analisamos os poucos trabalhos que se dedicaram a isso nas décadas de 1980 a 2000. Na terceira parte procedemos à apresentação dos textos que compõem o presente dossiê.
Autoria, revisão colaborativa e apropriação cultural
Authors: Pereira Elsa
Published: November 2018

Tomando como referência o modelo editorial que está a ser desenvolvido para a poesia de Pedro Homem de Mello (1904- 1984), este trabalho procura refletir sobre o problema da atribuição crítica de autoridade, nos casos em que se documentam situações de revisão colaborativa e apropriação cultural. Em linha com as posições teóricas de James Thorpe (1972) e Siegfried Scheibe (1995), entre outros, defende-se que, do ponto de vista editorial, todos os testemunhos sancionados pelo autor estão em pé de igualdade, e por isso, em vez de fixar um texto, apresentando-o como a lição mais autêntica, a solução adotada passará por um tratamento não-hierarquizado de múltiplos estágios textuais. Este procedimento, designado de versioning ou multiple texts, beneficia-se especialmente das virtualidades do hipertexto eletrônico, para conciliar tipos variáveis de autoridade e percursos alternativos de leitura.
A crítica textual pula o muro da escola
Authors: Santiago-Almeida Manoel Mourivaldo , Morandini Gabriela De Souza , Silva Lilian Barros de Abreu
Published: November 2018

O texto apresenta a proposta de pesquisa, em andamento, que estuda a transmissão de textos literários em material didático (livros, apostilas, textos paradidáticos) nas aulas de literatura. Tem como objetivos: (i) fazer o levantamento e a classificação das variantes surgidas no processo de transmissão das obras nesse tipo de material; (ii) investigar a gênese das variantes na transmissão desse material para encontrar o motivo do surgimento das alterações; (iii) discutir a influência dessas alterações numa análise crítico-literária da obra e do seu autor. A pesquisa tem como guia a base teórico-metodológica proposta para a Crítica Textual. Para a classificação ou tipologia das variantes, segue-se a proposta de Blecua (1983). Para análise e identificação dos padrões ou modelos gerais e específicos que regem as modificações sucedidas nos textos literários, o estudo apoia-se em Cambraia e Laranjeira (2010). São expostas partes das análises já realizadas em Quincas Borba, de Machado de Assis, e Iracema, de José de Alencar. Os resultados dessa pesquisa podem contribuir positivamente na produção do material didático e, consequentemente, na formação de professores de língua e literatura.
O dossier genético de Novelas do Minho
Authors: Pimenta Carlota
Published: November 2018

O estudo de Ivo Castro (2007) sobre a génese de Amor de Perdição, de Camilo Castelo Branco, comprovou como a análise genética do manuscrito autógrafo e das edições revistas pelo autor é do maior interesse para o conhecimento da criação da obra e dos processos de escrita autorais. Esse trabalho, pioneiro no campo dos estudos genéticos camilianos, motivou a multiplicação de estudos genéticos sobre outras obras do escritor, contribuindo para a comparação de tipos e práticas de escrita. Neste contexto, o presente estudo debruça-se sobre o dossier genético de Novelas do Minho, de Camilo Castelo Branco, procurando elucidar como características materiais do manuscrito autógrafo e da 1.ª edição contribuem para o conhecimento sobre a relação de Camilo com a sua escrita, o ritmo de produção e a planificação da obra. Com o pano de fundo teórico da crítica genética, procura-se caracterizar o processo de escrita camiliano e o tipo de cenário composicional reflectido no dossier genético desta obra.
Uma análise crítica sobre “The Origin of Suffixes in Romance”, de David Pharies
Authors: Alonso Júnior Clóvis Luiz
Published: November 2018

No artigo “The Origin of Suffixes in Romance”, constante no volume terceiro de Word-Formation: an International Handbook of the Languages of Europe, David Pharies constrói acurada tipologia das origens dos sufixos românicos. No artigo ora presente, tomo partido de certas posições de Pharies para propor, em viés crítico, determinadas releituras minhas acerca de questões sobre que ali se versa. A linha que persigo, como eixo verdadeiramente central, é a proposição do rendimento do binômio metáfora/metonímia como possível motriz da constituição de fenômenos linguísticos, sobretudo de ordem morfológico-lexical.
Saberes em diálogo na prática filológica editorial
Authors: Borges Rosa
Published: November 2018

Delineamos o fazer filológico na contemporaneidade, a partir das práticas editorais e da crítica filológica que tomam por objeto o texto teatral censurado, em seus aspectos material, social e cultural. Para ilustrar a práxis filológica que realizamos, tomamos Quincas Berro d’Água, novela de Jorge Amado adaptada para o teatro por João Augusto, considerando os materiais constituintes do dossiê da referida peça de teatro, para esboçar uma proposta editorial que leve em conta os saberes em diálogo no campo da Filologia e as abordagens críticas, textual, genética e sociológica.
Relationships Between Flow, Mental Toughness, and Subjective Performance Perception in Various Triathletes
Authors: Meggs Jenny , Chen Mark A. , Koehn Stefan
Published: November 2018

This study examined the relationship between mental toughness (MT), subjectively perceived performance, and dispositional flow in a sample of 114 high-performing ironmen and standard distance triathletes ( Mage = 28.81 years, SD = 3.45) recruited from triathlon clubs. Participants completed the Mental Toughness Questionnaire, Dispositional Flow Scale, and self-rated subjectively perceived performance. Pearson’s correlations between these measures revealed a significant, positive relationship between global MT and subjective performance ratings ( r = .62, p < .01) and between global MT and all Dispositional Flow subscales ( r = .67–.81, p < .05). Linear regression analyses found that MT subscales accounted for 64% of the variance in dispositional flow. Subjective performance ratings did not add significantly to the regression model. Overall, these findings suggest that MT may contribute positively to ironman competitors’ and triathletes’ exertion of the cognitive and emotional control necessary to experience flow and perform better. We discuss these results in the context of ironman and triathlon competitions.
Partisan strength and legislative bargaining
Authors: Choate Thomas , Weymark John A , Wiseman Alan E
Published: November 2018

We extend the canonical Baron–Ferejohn model of majoritarian legislative bargaining in order to analyze the effects of partisanship on bargaining outcomes. We consider three legislators, two of whom are party affiliated, with each partisan placing some value on the share of the dollar obtained by his copartisan in addition to his own share. We characterize the equilibrium of our model as a function of the strength of party affiliation and the degree to which the legislators have concern for the future; and we determine how the equilibrium varies in response to changes in these two parameters. We show how partisanship advantages the affiliated legislators relative to the nonpartisan and identify the circumstances in which a majority party legislator proposes a bipartisan outcome.
Joining by forming of metal–polymer sandwich composite panels
Authors: Pragana João PM , Contreiras Tomás RM , Bragança Ivo MF , Silva Carlos MA , Alves Luis M , Martins Paulo AF
Published: November 2018

This article presents new joining-by-forming processes to assemble longitudinally two metal–polymer sandwich composite panels perpendicular to one another. Process design draws from an earlier development of the authors for metal sheets to new concepts based on the combination of sheet-bulk forming with mortise-and-tenon joints. Selected examples obtained from experimentation and finite element modelling give support to the presentation. A new three-stage joining by the forming process is capable of producing mechanically locked joints with larger and stiffer flat-shaped heads than those fabricated by alternative single- or two-stage solutions. Failure in the new three-stage joining by the forming process is found to take place by cracking instead of disassembling after unbending the flat-shaped head of the joint back to its original shape. The required forming forces to produce the new metal–polymer joints are below 15 kN, allowing them to be an effective, easy-to-implement alternative to existing solutions based on adhesive bonding, welding and mechanical fastening.