bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Di-(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate on the Hypothalamus–Uterus in Pubertal Female Rats
Authors: Liu Te , Jia Yiyang , Zhou Liting , Wang Qi , Sun Di , Xu Jin , Wu Juan , Chen Huaiji , Xu Feng , Ye Lin
Published: November 2016

The pollution of endocrine disruptors and its impact on human reproductive system have attracted much attention. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), an environmental endocrine disruptor, is widely used in food packages, containers, medical supplies and children’s toys. It can cause diseases such as infertility, sexual precocity and uterine bleeding and thus arouse concerns from the society and scholars. The effect of DEHP on pubertal female reproductive system is still not well-studied. This study was to investigate the effects of DEHP on the hypothalamus–uterus in pubertal female rats, reveal the reproductive toxicity of DEHP on pubertal female rats and its mechanism, and provide scientific evidence for the evaluation of toxicity and toxic mechanism of DEHP on reproductive system. Forty-eight pubertal female rats were randomly divided into four groups and respectively administered via oral gavage 0, 250, 500, or 1000 mg/kg/d DEHP in 0.1 mL corn oil/20 g body weight for up to four weeks. Compared with control rats, the DEHP-treated rats showed: (1) higher gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) level in the hypothalamus; (2) higher protein levels of GnRH in the hypothalamus; and (3) higher mRNA and protein levels of GnRH receptor (GnRHR) in the uterus. Our data reveal that DEHP exposure may lead to a disruption in pubertal female rats and an imbalance of hypothalamus–uterus. Meanwhile, DEHP may, through the GnRH in the hypothalamus and its receptor on the uterus, lead to diseases of the uterus. DEHP may impose a negative influence on the development and functioning of the reproductive system in pubertal female rats.
Secondhand Smoke Is an Important Modifiable Risk Factor in Sickle Cell Disease: A Review of the Current Literature and Areas for Future Research
Authors: Sadreameli S. , Kopp Benjamin , Creary Susan , Eakin Michelle , McGrath-Morrow Sharon , Strouse John
Published: November 2016

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an autosomal recessive hemoglobinopathy that causes significant morbidity and mortality related to chronic hemolytic anemia, vaso-occlusion, and resultant end-organ damage. Tobacco smoke exposure (TSE) through secondhand smoke exposure in people with SCD of all ages and through primary smoking in adolescents and adults is associated with significantly increased morbidity, with increased rates of emergency department visits and hospitalizations for painful vaso-occlusive crises and acute chest syndrome (ACS). Secondhand smoke is also associated with pulmonary function abnormalities in children with SCD who are already at risk for pulmonary function abnormalities on the basis of SCD. TSE is emerging as one of the few modifiable risk factors of SCD. This review discusses the current state of the evidence with respect to TSE and SCD morbidity, discusses potential mechanisms, and highlights current gaps in the evidence and future research directions.
Carbon Balance and Contribution of Harvested Wood Products in China Based on the Production Approach of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Authors: Ji Chunyi , Cao Wenbin , Chen Yong , Yang Hongqiang
Published: November 2016

The carbon sequestration of harvested wood products (HWP) plays an important role in climate mitigation. Accounting the carbon contribution of national HWP carbon pools has been listed as one of the key topics for negotiation in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. On the basis of the revised Production Approach of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (2013) (IPCC), this study assessed the accounting of carbon stock and emissions from the HWP pool in China and then analyzed its balance and contribution to carbon mitigation from 1960 to 2014. Research results showed that the accumulated carbon stock in China’s HWP carbon pool increased from 130 Teragrams Carbon (TgC) in 1960 to 705.6 TgC in 2014. The annual increment in the carbon stock rose from 3.2 TgC in 1960 to 45.2 TgC in 2014. The category of solid wood products accounted for approximately 95% of the annual amount. The reduction in carbon emissions was approximately twelve times that of the emissions from the HWP producing and processing stage during the last decade. Furthermore, the amount of carbon stock and emission reduction increased from 23 TgC in 1960 to 76.1 TgC in 2014. The annual contribution of HWP could compensate for approximately 2.9% of the national carbon dioxide emissions in China.
Lamb-Wave-Based Tomographic Imaging Techniques for Hole-Edge Corrosion Monitoring in Plate Structures
Authors: Wang Dengjiang , Zhang Weifang , Wang Xiangyu , Sun Bo
Published: November 2016

This study presents a novel monitoring method for hole-edge corrosion damage in plate structures based on Lamb wave tomographic imaging techniques. An experimental procedure with a cross-hole layout using 16 piezoelectric transducers (PZTs) was designed. The A0 mode of the Lamb wave was selected, which is sensitive to thickness-loss damage. The iterative algebraic reconstruction technique (ART) method was used to locate and quantify the corrosion damage at the edge of the hole. Hydrofluoric acid with a concentration of 20% was used to corrode the specimen artificially. To estimate the effectiveness of the proposed method, the real corrosion damage was compared with the predicted corrosion damage based on the tomographic method. The results show that the Lamb-wave-based tomographic method can be used to monitor the hole-edge corrosion damage accurately.
The Use of Grape Seed Byproducts Rich in Flavonoids to Improve the Antioxidant Potential of Red Wines
Authors: Jara-Palacios María , Hernanz Dolores , Escudero-Gilete María , Heredia Francisco
Published: November 2016

The influence of adding seeds from grape pomace during Syrah wine fermentation in a warm climate has been studied. Seeds of Pedro Ximenez variety were rich in phenolic compounds, mainly flavonoids such as catechin and procyanidins. Changes in total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity of red wines were observed. These changes depended on the vinification stage and the amount of seeds (SW: 450 g or DW: 900 g seeds/150 kg grapes) applied. In general, antioxidant activity was greater when a simple dose (SW) was considered. Results indicate that seeds rich in flavonoids could be used as wine additives, which could improve the antioxidant potential of red wines in a warm climate.
Recent Progress in the Molecular Recognition and Therapeutic Importance of Interleukin-1 Receptor-Associated Kinase 4
Authors: Patra Mahesh , Choi Sangdun
Published: November 2016

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are the most upstream pattern recognition receptors in the cell, which detect pathogen associated molecular patterns and initiate signal transduction, culminating in the transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines and antiviral interferon. Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 (IRAK4) is a key mediator in TLR (except for TLR3) and interleukin-1 receptor signaling pathways. The loss of kinase function of IRAK4 is associated with increased susceptibility to various pathogens, while its over-activation causes autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and cancer. The therapeutic importance of this master kinase has been advocated by a number of recent preclinical studies, where potent inhibitors have been administered to improve various TLR-mediated pathologies. Increasing studies of X-ray crystallographic structures with bound inhibitors have improved our knowledge on the molecular recognition of ligands by IRAK4, which will be crucial for the development of new inhibitors with improved potencies. In this review, we briefly discuss the structural aspect of ligand recognition by IRAK4 and highlight its therapeutic importance in the context of TLR-associated unmet medical needs.
The Chemistry and Pharmacology of Citrus Limonoids
Authors: Gualdani Roberta , Cavalluzzi Maria , Lentini Giovanni , Habtemariam Solomon
Published: November 2016

Citrus limonoids (CLs) are a group of highly oxygenated terpenoid secondary metabolites found mostly in the seeds, fruits and peel tissues of citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, oranges, pumellos, grapefruits, bergamots, and mandarins. Represented by limonin, the aglycones and glycosides of CLs have shown to display numerous pharmacological activities including anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic and insecticidal among others. In this review, the chemistry and pharmacology of CLs are systematically scrutinised through the use of medicinal chemistry tools and structure-activity relationship approach. Synthetic derivatives and other structurally-related limonoids from other sources are include in the analysis. With the focus on literature in the past decade, the chemical classification of CLs, their physico-chemical properties as drugs, their biosynthesis and enzymatic modifications, possible ways of enhancing their biological activities through structural modifications, their ligand efficiency metrics and systematic graphical radar plot analysis to assess their developability as drugs are among those discussed in detail.
Antiproliferative, Cytotoxic, and Apoptotic Activity of Steroidal Oximes in Cervicouterine Cell Lines
Authors: Sánchez-Sánchez Luis , Hernández-Linares María , Escobar María , López-Muñoz Hugo , Zenteno Edgar , Fernández-Herrera María , Guerrero-Luna Gabriel , Carrasco-Carballo Alan , Sandoval-Ramírez Jesús
Published: November 2016

Steroidal sapogenins have shown antiproliferative effects against several tumor cell lines; and their effects on human cancer cells are currently under study. Changes in the functionality on the steroidal structure make it possible to modify the biological activity of compounds. Herein, we report the synthesis and in vitro antitumor activity of two steroidal oxime compounds on cervical cancer cells. These derivatives were synthesized from the steroidal sapogenin diosgenin in good yields. The in vitro assays show that the steroidal oximes show significant antiproliferative activity compared to the one observed for diosgenin. Cell proliferation, cell death, and the cytotoxic effects were determined in both cervical cancer cells and human lymphocytes. The cancer cells showed apoptotic morphology and an increased presence of active caspase-3, providing the notion of a death pathway in the cell. Significantly, the steroidal oximes did not exert a cytotoxic effect on lymphocytes.
A 1.9 EARTH RADIUS ROCKY PLANET AND THE DISCOVERY OF A NON-TRANSITING PLANET IN THE KEPLER-20 SYSTEM*
Authors: Buchhave Lars A. , Dressing Courtney D. , Dumusque Xavier , Rice Ken , Vanderburg Andrew , Mortier Annelies , Lopez-Morales Mercedes , Lopez Eric , Lundkvist Mia S. , Kjeldsen Hans , Affer Laura , Bonomo Aldo S. , Charbonneau David , Cameron Andrew Collier , Cosentino Rosario , Figueira Pedro , Fiorenzano Aldo F. M. , Harutyunyan Avet , Haywood Raphaëlle D. , Johnson John Asher , Latham David W. , Lovis Christophe , Malavolta Luca , Mayor Michel , Micela Giusi , Molinari Emilio , Motalebi Fatemeh , Nascimbeni Valerio , Pepe Francesco , Phillips David F. , Piotto Giampaolo , Pollacco Don , Queloz Didier , Sasselov Dimitar , Ségransan Damien , Sozzetti Alessandro , Udry Stéphane , Watson Chris
Published: November 2016

Kepler-20 is a solar-type star (V = 12.5) hosting a compact system of five transiting planets, all packed within the orbital distance of Mercury in our own solar system. A transition from rocky to gaseous planets with a planetary transition radius of ∼1.6

has recently been proposed by several articles in the literature. Kepler-20b (

 ∼ 1.9

) has a size beyond this transition radius; however, previous mass measurements were not sufficiently precise to allow definite conclusions to be drawn regarding its composition. We present new mass measurements of three of the planets in the Kepler-20 system that are facilitated by 104 radial velocity measurements from the HARPS-N spectrograph and 30 archival Keck/HIRES observations, as well as an updated photometric analysis of the Kepler data and an asteroseismic analysis of the host star (

 = 

and

 = 

). Kepler-20b is a

planet in a 3.7 day period with a mass of

, resulting in a mean density of

, indicating a rocky composition with an iron-to-silicate ratio consistent with that of the Earth. This makes Kepler-20b the most massive planet with a rocky composition found to date. Furthermore, we report the discovery of an additional non-transiting planet with a minimum mass of

and an orbital period of ∼34 days in the gap between Kepler-20f (P ∼ 11 days) and Kepler-20d (P ∼ 78 days).
A NEW MILKY WAY SATELLITE DISCOVERED IN THE SUBARU/HYPER SUPRIME-CAM SURVEY
Authors: Homma Daisuke , Chiba Masashi , Okamoto Sakurako , Komiyama Yutaka , Tanaka Masayuki , Tanaka Mikito , Ishigaki Miho N. , Akiyama Masayuki , Arimoto Nobuo , Garmilla José A. , Lupton Robert H. , Strauss Michael A. , Furusawa Hisanori , Miyazaki Satoshi , Murayama Hitoshi , Nishizawa Atsushi J. , Takada Masahiro , Usuda Tomonori , Wang Shiang-Yu
Published: November 2016

We report the discovery of a new ultra-faint dwarf satellite companion of the Milky Way (MW) based on the early survey data from the Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program. This new satellite, Virgo I, which is located in the constellation of Virgo, has been identified as a statistically significant (5.5σ) spatial overdensity of star-like objects with a well-defined main sequence and red giant branch in the color–magnitude diagram. The significance of this overdensity increases to 10.8σ when the relevant isochrone filter is adopted for the search. Based on the distribution of the stars around the likely main-sequence turnoff at r ∼ 24 mag, the distance to Virgo I is estimated as 87 kpc, and its most likely absolute magnitude calculated from a Monte Carlo analysis is M

V
 = −0.8 ± 0.9 mag. This stellar system has an extended spatial distribution with a half-light radius of

pc, which clearly distinguishes it from a globular cluster with comparable luminosity. Thus, Virgo I is one of the faintest dwarf satellites known and is located beyond the reach of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. This demonstrates the power of this survey program to identify very faint dwarf satellites. This discovery of Virgo I is based only on about 100 square degrees of data, thus a large number of faint dwarf satellites are likely to exist in the outer halo of the MW.
THE FORMATION OF AN INVERSE S-SHAPED ACTIVE-REGION FILAMENT DRIVEN BY SUNSPOT MOTION AND MAGNETIC RECONNECTION
Authors: Yan X. L. , Priest E. R. , Guo Q. L. , Xue Z. K. , Wang J. C. , Yang L. H.
Published: November 2016

We present a detailed study of the formation of an inverse S-shaped filament prior to its eruption in active region NOAA 11884 from 2013 October 31 to November 2. In the initial stage, clockwise rotation of a small positive sunspot around the main negative trailing sunspot formed a curved filament. Then the small sunspot cancelled with the negative magnetic flux to create a longer active-region filament with an inverse S-shape. At the cancellation site a brightening was observed in UV and EUV images and bright material was transferred to the filament. Later the filament erupted after cancellation of two opposite polarities below the upper part of the filament. Nonlinear force-free field extrapolation of vector photospheric fields suggests that the filament may have a twisted structure, but this cannot be confirmed from the current observations.
PHOTO-STABILITY OF SUPER-HYDROGENATED PAHs DETERMINED BY ACTION SPECTROSCOPY EXPERIMENTS
Authors: Wolf M. , Kiefer H. V. , Langeland J. , Andersen L. H. , Zettergren H. , Schmidt H. T. , Cederquist H. , Stockett M. H.
Published: November 2016

We have investigated the photo-stability of pristine and super-hydrogenated pyrene cations (

) by means of gas-phase action spectroscopy. Optical absorption spectra and photo-induced dissociation mass spectra are presented. By measuring the yield of mass-selected photo-fragment ions as a function of laser pulse intensity, the number of photons (and hence the energy) needed for fragmentation of the carbon backbone was determined. Backbone fragmentation of pristine pyrene ions (

) requires absorption of three photons of energy just below 3 eV, whereas super-hydrogenated hexahydropyrene (C16H

) must absorb two such photons and fully hydrogenated hexadecahydropyrene (C16H

) only a single photon. These results are consistent with previously reported dissociation energies for these ions. Our experiments clearly demonstrate that the increased heat capacity from the additional hydrogen atoms does not compensate for the weakening of the carbon backbone when pyrene is hydrogenated. In photodissociation regions, super-hydrogenated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) have been proposed to serve as catalysts for H2 formation. Our results indicate that carbon backbone fragmentation may be a serious competitor to H2 formation at least for small hydrogenated PAHs like pyrene.
THE QUENCHING TIMESCALE AND QUENCHING RATE OF GALAXIES
Authors: Lian Jianhui , Yan Renbin , Zhang Kai , Kong Xu
Published: November 2016

The average star formation rate (SFR) in galaxies has been declining since the redshift of 2. A fraction of galaxies quench and become quiescent. We constrain two key properties of the quenching process: the quenching timescale and the quenching rate among galaxies. We achieve this by analyzing the galaxy number density profile in NUV−u color space and the distribution in NUV−u versus u − i color–color diagram with a simple toy-model framework. We focus on galaxies in three mass bins between 1010 and 1010.6
M
⊙. In the NUV−u versus u − i color–color diagram, the red u − i galaxies exhibit a different slope from the slope traced by the star-forming galaxies. This angled distribution and the number density profile of galaxies in NUV−u space strongly suggest that the decline of the SFR in galaxies has to accelerate before they turn quiescent. We model this color–color distribution with a two-phase exponential decline star formation history. The models with an e-folding time in the second phase (the quenching phase) of 0.5 Gyr best fit the data. We further use the NUV−u number density profile to constrain the quenching rate among star-forming galaxies as a function of mass. Adopting an e-folding time of 0.5 Gyr in the second phase (or the quenching phase), we found the quenching rate to be 19%/Gyr, 25%/Gyr and 33%/Gyr for the three mass bins. These are upper limits of the quenching rate as the transition zone could also be populated by rejuvenated red-sequence galaxies.
RAMAN SCATTERING BY MOLECULAR HYDROGEN AND NITROGEN IN EXOPLANETARY ATMOSPHERES
Authors: Oklopčić Antonija , Hirata Christopher M. , Heng Kevin
Published: November 2016

An important source of opacity in exoplanet atmospheres at short visible and near-UV wavelengths is Rayleigh scattering of light on molecules. It is accompanied by a related, albeit weaker process—Raman scattering. We analyze the signatures of Raman scattering imprinted in the reflected light and the geometric albedo of exoplanets, which could provide information about atmospheric properties. Raman scattering affects the geometric albedo spectra of planets in the following ways. First, it causes filling-in of strong absorption lines in the incident radiation, thus producing sharp peaks in the albedo. Second, it shifts the wavelengths of spectral features in the reflected light causing the so-called Raman ghost lines. Raman scattering can also cause a broadband reduction of the albedo due to wavelength shifting of a stellar spectrum with red spectral index. Observing the Raman peaks in the albedo could be used to measure the column density of gas, thus providing constraints on the presence of clouds in the atmosphere. Observing the Raman ghost lines could be used to spectroscopically identify the main scatterer in the atmosphere, even molecules like H2 or N2, which do not have prominent spectral signatures in the optical wavelength range. If detected, ghost lines could also provide information about the temperature of the atmosphere. In this paper, we investigate the effects of Raman scattering in hydrogen- and nitrogen-dominated atmospheres. We analyze the feasibility of detecting the signatures of Raman scattering with the existing and future observational facilities, and of using these signatures as probes of exoplanetary atmospheres.
RECOMMENDED THERMAL RATE COEFFICIENTS FOR THE C + H3
+ REACTION AND SOME ASTROCHEMICAL IMPLICATIONS
Authors: Vissapragada S. , Buzard C. F. , Miller K. A. , O’Connor A. P. , Ruette N. de , Urbain X. , Savin D. W.
Published: November 2016

We incorporate our experimentally derived thermal rate coefficients for C +

forming CH+ and CH2
+ into a commonly used astrochemical model. We find that the Arrhenius–Kooij equation typically used in chemical models does not accurately fit our data and instead we use a more versatile fitting formula. At a temperature of 10 K and a density of 104 cm−3, we find no significant differences in the predicted chemical abundances, but at higher temperatures of 50, 100, and 300 K we find up to factor of 2 changes. In addition, we find that the relatively small error on our thermal rate coefficients, ∼15%, significantly reduces the uncertainties on the predicted abundances compared to those obtained using the currently implemented Langevin rate coefficient with its estimated factor of 2 uncertainty.
THE KEPLER DICHOTOMY IN PLANETARY DISKS: LINKING KEPLER OBSERVABLES TO SIMULATIONS OF LATE-STAGE PLANET FORMATION
Authors: Moriarty John , Ballard Sarah
Published: November 2016

NASA’s Kepler Mission uncovered a wealth of planetary systems, many with planets on short-period orbits. These short-period systems reside around 50% of Sun-like stars and are similarly prevalent around M dwarfs. Their formation and subsequent evolution is the subject of active debate. In this paper, we simulate late-stage, in situ planet formation across a grid of planetesimal disks with varying surface density profiles and total mass. We compare simulation results with observable characteristics of the Kepler sample. We identify mixture models with different primordial planetesimal disk properties that self-consistently recover the multiplicity, radius, period and period ratio, and duration ratio distributions of the Kepler planets. We draw three main conclusions. (1) We favor a “frozen-in” narrative for systems of short-period planets, in which they are stable over long timescales, as opposed to metastable. (2) The “Kepler dichotomy,” an observed phenomenon of the Kepler sample wherein the architectures of planetary systems appear to either vary significantly or have multiple modes, can naturally be explained by formation within planetesimal disks with varying surface density profiles. Finally, (3) we quantify the nature of the “Kepler dichotomy” for both GK stars and M dwarfs, and find that it varies with stellar type. While the mode of planet formation that accounts for high multiplicity systems occurs in 24% ± 7% of planetary systems orbiting GK stars, it occurs in 63% ± 16% of planetary systems orbiting M dwarfs.
INTERFEROMETRIC MONITORING OF GAMMA-RAY BRIGHT AGNs. I. THE RESULTS OF SINGLE-EPOCH MULTIFREQUENCY OBSERVATIONS
Authors: Lee Sang-Sung , Wajima Kiyoaki , Algaba Juan-Carlos , Zhao Guang-Yao , Hodgson Jeffrey A. , Kim Dae-Won , Park Jongho , Kim Jae-Young , Miyazaki Atsushi , Byun Do-Young , Kang Sincheol , Kim Jeong-Sook , Kim Soon-Wook , Kino Motoki , Trippe Sascha
Published: November 2016

We present results of single-epoch very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) observations of gamma-ray bright active galactic nuclei (AGNs) using the Korean VLBI Network (KVN) at the 22, 43, 86, and 129 GHz bands, which are part of a KVN key science program, Interferometric Monitoring of Gamma-Ray Bright AGNs. We selected a total of 34 radio-loud AGNs of which 30 sources are gamma-ray bright AGNs with flux densities of >6 × 10−10 ph cm−2 s−1. Single-epoch multifrequency VLBI observations of the target sources were conducted during a 24 hr session on 2013 November 19 and 20. All observed sources were detected and imaged at all frequency bands, with or without a frequency phase transfer technique, which enabled the imaging of 12 faint sources at 129 GHz, except for one source. Many of the target sources are resolved on milliarcsecond scales, yielding a core-jet structure, with the VLBI core dominating the synchrotron emission on a milliarcsecond scale. CLEAN flux densities of the target sources are 0.43–28 Jy, 0.32–21 Jy, 0.18–11 Jy, and 0.35–8.0 Jy in the 22, 43, 86, and 129 GHz bands, respectively. Spectra of the target sources become steeper at higher frequency, with spectral index means of −0.40, −0.62, and −1.00 in the 22–43 GHz, 43–86 GHz and 86–129 GHz bands, respectively, implying that the target sources become optically thin at higher frequencies (e.g., 86–129 GHz).
Long-term Outcome of Unconstrained Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty in Ipsilateral Residual Poliomyelitis
Authors: Buttaro Martín A. , Slullitel Pablo A. , García Mansilla Agustín M. , Carlucci Sofía , Comba Fernando M. , Zanotti Gerardo , Piccaluga Francisco
Published: November 2016

Incapacitating articular sequelae in the hip joint have been described for patients with late effects of poliomyelitis. In these patients, total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been associated with a substantial rate of dislocation. This study was conducted to evaluate the long-term clinical and radiologic outcomes of unconstrained THA in this specific group of patients. The study included 6 patients with ipsilateral polio who underwent primary THA between 1985 and 2006. Patients with polio who underwent THA on the nonparalytic limb were excluded. Mean follow-up was 119.5 months (minimum, 84 months). Clinical outcomes were evaluated with the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and the visual analog scale (VAS) pain score. Radiographs were examined to identify the cause of complications and determine the need for revision surgery. All patients showed significantly better functional results when preoperative and postoperative mHHS (67.58 vs 87.33, respectively;
P
=.002) and VAS pain score (7.66 vs 2, respectively;
P
=.0003) were compared. Although 2 cases of instability were diagnosed, only 1 patient needed acetabular revision as a result of component malpositioning. None of the patients had component loosening, osteolysis, or infection. Unconstrained THA in the affected limb of patients with poliomyelitis showed favorable long-term clinical results, with improved function and pain relief. Nevertheless, instability may be a more frequent complication in this group of patients compared with the general population. [
Orthopedics.
2017; 40(2):e255–e261.]
Urticaria: “You're Probably Just Allergic to Something”
Authors: Smallwood Jordan
Published: November 2016

Urticaria is a common symptom seen in pediatric patients, and it has multiple allergic and nonallergic causes. Unfortunately, it is far too common that when children present acutely for urticaria, they are told that it is an “allergy.” This statement often leads to increased anxiety while the patient waits to be evaluated by an allergist/immunologist. This article discusses the frequency that allergic reactions are involved in urticaria and provides examples of potential nonallergic causes. Additionally, the article discusses approaches to treatment that may be appropriate to initiate in the pediatrician's office or acute setting. This article is intended to provide a broader understanding of urticaria and its management in the outpatient or emergency setting so that we are able to tell our patients more than“you're probably just allergic to something.”

[
Pediatr Ann.
2016;45(11):e399–e402.]
Age-Associated B Cells with Proinflammatory Characteristics Are Expanded in a Proportion of Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Claes Nele , Fraussen Judith , Vanheusden Marjan , Hellings Niels , Stinissen Piet , Van Wijmeersch Bart , Hupperts Raymond , Somers Veerle
Published: November 2016

Immune aging occurs in the elderly and in autoimmune diseases. Recently, IgD−CD27− (double negative, DN) and CD21−CD11c+ (CD21low) B cells were described as age-associated B cells with proinflammatory characteristics. This study investigated the prevalence and functional characteristics of DN and CD21low B cells in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Using flow cytometry, we demonstrated a higher proportion of MS patients younger than 60 y with peripheral expansions of DN (8/41) and CD21low (9/41) B cells compared with age-matched healthy donors (1/33 and 2/33, respectively), which indicates an increase in age-associated B cells in MS patients. The majority of DN B cells had an IgG+ memory phenotype, whereas CD21low B cells consisted of a mixed population of CD27− naive, CD27+ memory, IgG+, and IgM+ cells. DN B cells showed similar (MS patients) or increased (healthy donors) MHC-II expression as class-switched memory B cells and intermediate costimulatory molecule expression between naive and class-switched memory B cells, indicating their potential to induce (proinflammatory) T cell responses. Further, DN B cells produced proinflammatory and cytotoxic cytokines following ex vivo stimulation. Increased frequencies of DN and CD21low B cells were found in the cerebrospinal fluid of MS patients compared with paired peripheral blood. In conclusion, a proportion of MS patients showed increased peripheral expansions of age-associated B cells. DN and CD21low B cell frequencies were further increased in MS cerebrospinal fluid. These cells could contribute to inflammation by induction of T cell responses and the production of proinflammatory cytokines.
Dendritic Cell KLF2 Expression Regulates T Cell Activation and Proatherogenic Immune Responses
Authors: Alberts-Grill Noah , Engelbertsen Daniel , Bu Dexiu , Foks Amanda , Grabie Nir , Herter Jan M. , Kuperwaser Felicia , Chen Tao , Destefano Gina , Jarolim Petr , Lichtman Andrew H.
Published: November 2016

Dendritic cells (DCs) have been implicated as important regulators of innate and adaptive inflammation in many diseases, including atherosclerosis. However, the molecular mechanisms by which DCs mitigate or promote inflammatory pathogenesis are only partially understood. Previous studies have shown an important anti-inflammatory role for the transcription factor Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) in regulating activation of various cell types that participate in atherosclerotic lesion development, including endothelial cells, macrophages, and T cells. We used a pan-DC, CD11c-specific cre-lox gene knockout mouse model to assess the role of KLF2 in DC activation, function, and control of inflammation in the context of hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. We found that KLF2 deficiency enhanced surface expression of costimulatory molecules CD40 and CD86 in DCs and promoted increased T cell proliferation and apoptosis. Transplant of bone marrow from mice with KLF2-deficient DCs into Ldlr−/− mice aggravated atherosclerosis compared with control mice, most likely due to heightened vascular inflammation evidenced by increased DC presence within lesions, enhanced T cell activation and cytokine production, and increased cell death in atherosclerotic lesions. Taken together, these data indicate that KLF2 governs the degree of DC activation and hence the intensity of proatherogenic T cell responses.
The Analysis of CD83 Expression on Human Immune Cells Identifies a Unique CD83+-Activated T Cell Population
Authors: Ju Xinsheng , Silveira Pablo A. , Hsu Wei-Hsun , Elgundi Zehra , Alingcastre Renz , Verma Nirupama D. , Fromm Phillip D. , Hsu Jennifer L. , Bryant Christian , Li Ziduo , Kupresanin Fiona , Lo Tsun-Ho , Clarke Candice , Lee Kenneth , McGuire Helen , Fazekas de St. Groth Barbara , Larsen Stephen R. , Gibson John , Bradstock Kenneth F. , Clark Georgina J. , Hart Derek N. J.
Published: November 2016

CD83 is a member of the Ig gene superfamily, first identified in activated lymphocytes. Since then, CD83 has become an important marker for defining activated human dendritic cells (DC). Several potential CD83 mRNA isoforms have been described, including a soluble form detected in human serum, which may have an immunosuppressive function. To further understand the biology of CD83, we examined its expression in different human immune cell types before and after activation using a panel of mouse and human anti-human CD83 mAb. The mouse anti-human CD83 mAbs, HB15a and HB15e, and the human anti-human CD83 mAb, 3C12C, were selected to examine cytoplasmic and surface CD83 expression, based on their different binding characteristics. Glycosylation of CD83, the CD83 mRNA isoforms, and soluble CD83 released differed among blood DC, monocytes, and monocyte-derived DC, and other immune cell types. A small T cell population expressing surface CD83 was identified upon T cell stimulation and during allogeneic MLR. This subpopulation appeared specifically during viral Ag challenge. We did not observe human CD83 on unstimulated human natural regulatory T cells (Treg), in contrast to reports describing expression of CD83 on mouse Treg. CD83 expression was increased on CD4+, CD8+ T, and Treg cells in association with clinical acute graft-versus-host disease in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant recipients. The differential expression and function of CD83 on human immune cells reveal potential new roles for this molecule as a target of therapeutic manipulation in transplantation, inflammation, and autoimmune diseases.
Characterization and Transcriptomic Analysis of Porcine Blood Conventional and Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Reveals Striking Species-Specific Differences
Authors: Auray Gael , Keller Irene , Python Sylvie , Gerber Markus , Bruggmann Remy , Ruggli Nicolas , Summerfield Artur
Published: November 2016

Porcine dendritic cells (DCs) are relatively well characterized, but a clear-cut identification of all DC subsets combined with full transcriptional profiling was lacking, preventing an unbiased insight into the functional specializations of DC subsets. Using a large panel of Abs in multicolor flow cytometry, cell sorting, and RNA sequencing we identified and characterized the porcine equivalent of conventional DCs (cDC) 1 and cDC2 as well as plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) in the peripheral blood of pigs. We demonstrate that cDC1 are CD135+CD14−CD172alowCADM1+wCD11R1+ cells, cDC2 are CD135+CD14−CD172a+CADM1+CD115+wCD11R1+CD1+ cells and pDCs are CD4+CD135+CD172a+CD123+CD303+ cells. As described in other species, only cDC1 express BATF3 and XCR1, cDC2 express FCER1A and FCGR2B, and only pDCs express TCF4 and NRP1. Nevertheless, despite these cross-species conserved subset-specific transcripts, porcine pDCs differed from the species described so far in many expressed genes and transcriptomic profiling clustered pDCs more distantly from cDCs than monocytes. The response of porcine DC subsets to TLR ligands revealed that pDCs are by far the most important source of TNF-α, IL-12p40, and of course IFN-α, whereas cDCs are most efficient in MHC and costimulatory molecule expression. Nevertheless, upregulation of CD40 and CD86 in cDCs was critically influenced or even dependent on the presence of pDCs, particularly for TLR 7 and 9 ligands. Our data demonstrate that extrapolation of data on DC biology from one species to another has to be done with care, and it shows how functional details have evolved differentially in different species.
Rac2 Functions in Both Neutrophils and Macrophages To Mediate Motility and Host Defense in Larval Zebrafish
Authors: Rosowski Emily E. , Deng Qing , Keller Nancy P. , Huttenlocher Anna
Published: November 2016

Leukocyte motility is required for host defense responses. Rac-family Rho GTPases are implicated in leukocyte function; however, the distinct roles of different Rac isoforms in host defense in vivo have remained unclear. In this study, we generated Rac2-deficient zebrafish using transcription activator–like effector nucleases to directly compare the role of Rac2 in vivo in neutrophils and macrophages in motility and the response to infection. This zebrafish larval model is highly amenable to live imaging of leukocyte behavior, and we report that in rac2−/− larvae both neutrophils and macrophages are defective in basic motility, leading to impaired responses to localized wounds or infections. rac2−/− larvae are highly susceptible to infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can be almost fully rescued by ectopic expression of either Rac2 or Rac1 specifically in neutrophils, indicating that these isoforms have partially overlapping functions in vivo. Rescue of Rac2 expression specifically in macrophages also confers resistance to Pseudomonas infection, highlighting an important role for Rac2 in this leukocyte population as well. Surprisingly, in contrast to neutrophils expressing a Rac2 dominant inhibitory human disease mutation, rac2−/− neutrophils do not have altered polarity or mobilization from hematopoietic tissue, suggesting that a different Rac isoform, such as Rac1, also contributes to these phenotypes in vivo.
Early Whole Blood Transcriptional Signatures Are Associated with Severity of Lung Inflammation in Cynomolgus Macaques with Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Gideon Hannah P. , Skinner Jason A. , Baldwin Nicole , Flynn JoAnne L. , Lin Philana Ling
Published: November 2016

Whole blood transcriptional profiling offers great diagnostic and prognostic potential. Although studies identified signatures for pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) and transcripts that predict the risk for developing active TB in humans, the early transcriptional changes immediately following Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection have not been evaluated. We evaluated the gene expression changes in the cynomolgus macaque model of TB, which recapitulates all clinical aspects of human M. tuberculosis infection, using a human microarray and analytics platform. We performed genome-wide blood transcriptional analysis on 38 macaques at 11 postinfection time points during the first 6 mo of M. tuberculosis infection. Of 6371 differentially expressed transcripts between preinfection and postinfection, the greatest change in transcriptional activity occurred 20–56 d postinfection, during which fluctuation of innate and adaptive immune response–related transcripts was observed. Modest transcriptional differences between active TB and latent infection were observed over the time course with substantial overlap. The pattern of module activity previously published for human active TB was similar in macaques with active disease. Blood transcript activity was highly correlated with lung inflammation (lung [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose [FDG] avidity) measured by positron emission tomography and computed tomography at early time points postinfection. The differential signatures between animals with high and low lung FDG were stronger than between clinical outcomes. Analysis of preinfection signatures of macaques revealed that IFN signatures could influence eventual clinical outcomes and lung FDG avidity, even before infection. Our data support that transcriptional changes in the macaque model are translatable to human M. tuberculosis infection and offer important insights into early events of M. tuberculosis infection.
Cutting Edge: BAFF Overexpression Reduces Atherosclerosis via TACI-Dependent B Cell Activation
Authors: Jackson Shaun W. , Scharping Nicole E. , Jacobs Holly M. , Wang Shari , Chait Alan , Rawlings David J.
Published: November 2016

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus exhibit accelerated atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial wall. The impact of B cells in atherosclerosis is controversial, with both protective and pathogenic roles described. For example, natural IgM binding conserved oxidized lipid epitopes protect against atherosclerosis, whereas anti-oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) IgG likely promotes disease. Because BAFF promotes B cell class-switch recombination and humoral autoimmunity, we hypothesized that excess BAFF would accelerate atherosclerosis. In contrast, BAFF overexpression markedly reduced hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis in hyperlipidemic mice. BAFF-mediated atheroprotection required B cells and was associated with increased protective anti-oxLDL IgM. Surprisingly, high–titer anti-oxLDL IgM production and reduced atherosclerosis was dependent on the BAFF family receptor transmembrane activator and CAML interactor. In summary, we identified a novel role for B cell–specific, BAFF-dependent transmembrane activator and CAML interactor signals in atherosclerosis pathogenesis, of particular relevance to the use of BAFF-targeted therapies in systemic lupus erythematosus.
Leibniz, Lefebvre and the spatial turn in law
Authors: De Villiers Isolde
Published: November 2016

This contribution takes as its point of departure the spatial turn in law and the notion of spatial justice. It traces the term ‘spatial justice’ as introduced through the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act and it looks at the underlying view of space that has influenced the spatial turn in law. It furthermore investigates the ways in which the spatial turn in law has been influenced by the thinking of Henri Lefebvre, who relies on a Leibnizian conception of space. Lastly the link between Leibniz and legal positivism is considered in order to reach the final conclusion in the form of a caution against merely adding the language of spatial justice to an approach to space that remains caught up in abstract space. This will only further entrench existing fault lines in society. For this conclusion the work of Roger Berkowitz is central. Berkowitz argues convincingly that the work of Leibniz was central in the development of legal positivism, despite Leibniz in general being considered as a natural law thinker. The same applies to spatial justice theory, where the work of Leibniz is central: it may present the possibilities of another law – the law as it ought to be. The law conceptualised as ‘ought’ instead of ‘is’ would promote reconciliation. Alternatively, spatial justice can simply present the law as it ‘is’ and reconfirm and deepen the chasms in our world.
Holiness without the holy One(s): Towards an ‘evental’ account of holiness
Authors: Urbaniak Jakub
Published: November 2016

Should holiness be conceived as a predicate (an attribute), a state (a mode of being) or an event (a process)? It can certainly be understood as God‘s primary attribute. This is how much of classical Christian theology sees it. It can also be thought of as a particular modus of existence shared by God and the holy ones (the saints and the angels), as attested by much of Christian tradition and popular imagination. A more dynamic view of holiness can be found in Scripture and throughout Christian theological tradition; and yet, in the modern era, it has been overshadowed by the first two tendencies. This article offers a tentative enquiry into an ‘evental’ account of holiness by drawing from (1) Niels Gregersen’s and Elizabeth Johnson’s reflection on ‘deep incarnation’ and ‘deep resurrection’ as well as (2) John B. Cobb’s and Marjorie Suchocki’s process theology of the Spirit. Firstly, the ‘from above’ approach to holiness, prevailing in modern Christian theology, is briefly discussed based on John Webster’s understanding of holiness as God’s personal moral relation to humanity. Secondly, I suggest an alternative ‘from below’ approach to holiness based on Gregersen’s and Johnson’s deep Christology. Thirdly, Cobb’s and Suchocki’s take on ‘creative transformation’ and Suchocki’s original appropriation of Cobb’s insights on process pneumatology are used as a hermeneutic key to reinterpret holiness as an ‘evental’ category. Finally, the notion of the holiness of life is reconsidered in light of my proposal.
Social support and diabetes self-management behavior among Caribbean, Caribbean American, and African American women: A descriptive correlation study
Authors: Harvey Idethia , Sherman Ledric , Spears Erica , Ford Chanee , Green Helena
Published: November 2016

Background: Type-2 diabetes (T2D) is one of the most prevalent chronic and noncommunicable conditions both domestically and globally. The objective of this descriptive study was to examine how perceived social support impacted self-care management behavior among female African American and Caribbean populations.

Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study recruited 42 African American and Caribbean women diagnosed with T2D (M = 69.1, SD = 12.0). Univariate and bivariate analyses were conducted to explore the relationship between (1) demographic characteristics, (2) desired and received social support variables, and (3) self-management behaviors.

Results: Caribbean women residing in the United States were more likely to follow general diet (M = 5.38, SD = 1.43) and to engage in physical activity (M = 4.31, SD = 2.39), whereas African American women were more likely to follow a specific diabetes diet (M = 3.79, SD = 1.60) and to monitor their glucose (M = 5.70, SD = 1.75). Caribbean women living in the United States Virgin Islands were more likely to follow recommended foot care procedure (M = 4.65, SD = 1.36). A negative correlation occurred between female participants exercising and the desired support in exercising. Women who reported that they desired more support with physical activity exercised less (r
s= −0.34; P = 0.04). No relationship was found between foot care procedure and demographic characteristics or social support variables (i.e. desired or received).

Conclusion: This study suggests directions for future studies that would examine the dynamics of social support and T2D self-management behaviors, and this study might be relevant to other Caribbean and African American communities with T2D both in North America and the Caribbean.
The prevalence and predictors of cognitive impairment in type 2 diabetic population of Punjab, India
Authors: Khullar Shallu , Kaur Gurpreet , Dhillon Harjot , Sharma Ritu , Mehta Kanchan , Singh Monica , Singh Puneetpal
Published: November 2016

Background: The present cross sectional study was carried out on 516 subjects with type 2 diabetes from a tertiary health care hospital to identify the prevalence and predictors of cognitive impairment in diabetes.

Materials and Methods: Cognitive impairment was tested using Mini Mental Scale Examination (MMSE), Trail making tests-A and B (TMT-A and TMT-B). Efficiency of these tests to diagnose cognitive impairment was analysed using reliability index (Cronbach's α = 0.82), which ruled out any internal inconsistency. Of the study participants, 174 (33.73%) met the criteria for cognitive impairment and 342 (66.27%) were having normal cognition. Out of 174, 156 diabetic subjects (89.65 percent) were not diagnosed for neurocognitive impairment prior participation.

Results: Cognitive impairment was observed to be strongly associated with being a woman (P < 0.001), divorced or separated (P = 0.007), sedentary life style (P = 0.001), smoking (P < 0.001), drinking alcohol (P < 0.001), systolic blood pressure >120 mmHg (P = 0.003), triglycerides (TG) >150 mg/dl (P = 0.001), high density lipoprotein <40 mg/dl (P = 0.001), statin use (P = 0.009), waist hip ratio in both males and females (P = 0.001), glucose levels >125 mg/dl (P = 0.005) and duration of diabetes >2 years upto 10 years and more than 10 years (P = 0.001) in univariate testing. In multivariate logistic regression model, being a woman was an independent risk factor for cognitive decline, which is two fold higher (OR 2.00 95%CI 1.25-3.20, P = 0.004) than being a man. Other risk factors like glucose levels > 125 mg/dl, systolic blood pressure >120 mmHg, sedentary life style and duration of diabetes >10 years emerged as independent predictors of cognitive impairment in diabetes.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the present study revealed that higher prevalence of cognitive impairment in diabetes is evident in population of Punjab, especially in women and majority of these patients remain undiagnosed for it.