bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein Kinase A activity is regulated by actomyosin contractility during cell migration and is required for durotaxis
Authors: McKenzie Andrew J. , Williams Tamara F. , Svec Kathryn V. , Howe Alan K.
Published: August 2018

Dynamic subcellular regulation of Protein kinase A (PKA) activity is important for the motile behavior of many cell types, yet the mechanisms governing PKA activity during cell migration remain largely unknown. The motility of SKOV-3 epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) cells has been shown to be dependent on both localized PKA activity and, more recently, on mechanical reciprocity between cellular tension and extracellular matrix (ECM) rigidity. Here, we investigated the possibility that PKA is regulated by mechanical signaling during migration. We find that localized PKA activity in migrating cells rapidly decreases upon inhibition of actomyosin contractility (specifically, of myosin ATPase, ROCK (Rho kinase), or MLCK (myosin light chain kinase) activity). Moreover, PKA activity is spatially and temporally correlated with cellular traction forces in migrating cells. Additionally, PKA is rapidly and locally activated by mechanical stretch in an actomyosin contractility-dependent manner. Finally, inhibition of PKA activity inhibits mechanically-guided migration, also known as durotaxis. These observations establish PKA as a locally-regulated effector of cellular mechanotransduction and as a regulator of mechanically-guided cell migration.
In the age of e-learning: application and impact of augmented reality in training
Authors: Upadhyay Ashwani Kumar , Khandelwal Komal
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the developments in augmented reality (AR) and its application and impact in the field of training. It highlights major implications for practice by building on current research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on the review of important developments in research and practice related to AR.

Findings

The engagement and retention are higher for AR-based training, as it layers and supplements the real-world environments with additional content. AR training reduces the pressure of memorizing instructions. AR is being adopted by a variety of organizations ranging from healthcare, automotive, firefighting, military, etc.

Practical implications

The paper provides relevant strategic insights on AR and its relevance in the field of training.

Originality/value

This paper aids the busy executives and researchers by offering the most relevant and valuable information related to AR in a summarized and crisp format.
To stay or switch: breaking the habit of status quo through imagery perspective
Authors: Saine Ruby , Nguyen Carlin A. , Besharat Ali , Trocchia Philip J.
Published: August 2018

Purpose

When consumers imagine themselves in various consumption scenarios, they can do so from the actor or the observer perspective. These different vantage points are known as imagery perspectives. This paper aims to investigate how imagery perspectives can influence consumers’ decisions to stay with the status quo (default option) or to switch to an alternative.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of four experimental design studies were conducted in both lab and online settings to study consumers’ switching tendency and choice. The empirical testing involved products, brands and services, including cameras (Study 1), vacation hotels (Study 2), toilet paper (Study 3) and food (Study 4).

Findings

The authors demonstrate that compared with actor imagery that tends to perpetuate the default product and brand choice, observer imagery increases consumers’ tendency to change and switch to new products and brands.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the methods used in empirical testing, the research results may lack generalizability.

Practical implications

Marketers spend a considerable amount of resources in an attempt to get consumers to switch products and brands. The results of this paper shed light on how marketers can promote switching behaviors through imagery perspective.

Originality/value

The research contributes to the streams of research in mental imagery, de-biasing and status quos, which have progressed in isolation from one another to date. This research is one of the first to investigate imagery perspective in the context of choice architecture.
Co-creating value in online innovation communities
Authors: Akman Hande , Plewa Carolin , Conduit Jodie
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Online innovation communities are central for many organizations seeking to advance their innovation portfolio. While these communities rely on consumers to collaborate in the innovation process, it remains unclear what drives these consumers to perform value co-creation activities and what value dimensions they derive as a result. This paper aims to advance the understanding of value co-creation in the online collaborative innovation context. Specifically, it aims to examine social and individual factors driving such activities, and the value derived from the perspective of the member.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administered online questionnaire was used to collect data from collaborative innovation community members yielding 309 complete responses. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data, using variance-based structural equation modelling with partial least squares path modelling in SmartPLS.

Findings

Results confirm that distinct social and individual factors facilitate individual value co-creation activities, including the provision of feedback, helping, rapport building and information sharing. Furthermore, the research confirms the mediating role of learning on these relationships.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the micro-foundation movement in marketing by undertaking an independent examination of value co-creation activities and their nomological network.

Practical implications

A shift in the mindset of managing for collaborative innovation is required, from a focus on collaborative product development to the management of an online community where members derive value from their co-creation activities.

Originality/value

This research is the first to offer insight into important individual and social pre-conditions and subsequent value outcomes of four common value co-creation activities. It informs practice about how to facilitate value co-creation activities and contribute to the co-creation of value for online innovation community members.
Theorising communications coaching in Asian contact centres: what is the approach?
Authors: Lockwood Jane
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical framework that is of practical use to those who are coaching for enhanced communication in the contact centre industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptualization of this framework has emerged after several years of working, as an applied linguist and consultant in this industry.

Findings

The interdisciplinary framework proposed in this paper draws on the adult learning theory, on language assessment and applied linguistic practices and studies carried out looking at how competency is developed at work. It proposes four levels of competency from novice to expert with the attendant coaching approach to best target the needs of communications coachees in this industry.

Research limitations/implications

Implications for improved coaching practices in the contact centre industry where there is heavy investment in coaching on the floor. Research limitations are that although there is strong anecdotal evidence that this framework and approach to coaching is effective, the authors need to carry out a large-scale study showing business impact.

Practical implications

The implications for coaching practitioners are that they have an informed theoretical framework upon which to base their coaching activity. This provides a more targeted approach to the needs of coachees of different levels of experience.

Social implications

As a result of effective coaching, particularly at the early stages of working in a contact centre, the level of attrition may drop thus providing employees with work in a supportive environment.

Originality/value

No previous study has looked at how theoretical studies in adult learning and applied linguistic practice can inform communications coaching in this industry. It has also involved the quality assurance specialists in collaborating and contributing to this model.
Drug injection within prison in Kyrgyzstan: elevated HIV risk and implications for scaling up opioid agonist treatments
Authors: Azbel Lyuba , Wegman Martin P. , Polonsky Maxim , Bachireddy Chethan , Meyer Jaimie , Shumskaya Natalya , Kurmanalieva Ainura , Dvoryak Sergey , Altice Frederick L.
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Within-prison drug injection (WPDI) is a particularly high HIV risk behavior, yet has not been examined in Central Asia. A unique opportunity in Kyrgyzstan where both methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) and needle-syringe programs (NSP) exist allowed further inquiry into this high risk environment. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

A randomly selected, nationally representative sample of prisoners within six months of release in Kyrgyzstan completed biobehavioral surveys. Inquiry about drug injection focused on three time periods (lifetime, 30 days before incarceration and during incarceration). The authors performed bivariate and multivariable generalized linear modeling with quasi-binomial distribution and logit link to determine the independent correlates of current WPDI.

Findings

Of 368 prisoners (13 percent women), 109 (35 percent) had ever injected drugs, with most (86 percent) reporting WPDI. Among those reporting WPDI, 34.8 percent had initiated drug injection within prison. Despite nearly all (95 percent) drug injectors having initiated MMT previously, current MMT use was low with coverage only reaching 11 percent of drug injectors. Two factors were independently correlated with WPDI: drug injection in the 30 days before the current incarceration (AOR=12.6; 95%CI=3.3-48.9) and having hepatitis C infection (AOR: 10.1; 95%CI=2.5-41.0).

Originality/value

This study is the only examination of WPDI from a nationally representative survey of prisoners where both MMT and NSP are available in prisons and in a region where HIV incidence and mortality are increasing. WPDI levels were extraordinarily high in the presence of low uptake of prison-based MMT. Interventions that effectively scale-up MMT are urgently required as well as an investigation of the environmental factors that contribute to the interplay between MMT and WPDI.
Evaluating profitability strategies and the determinants of the risk performance of sectoral and banking institutions
Authors: St-Hilaire Walter Amedzro , Boisselier Patrick
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the need to incorporate the loan loss provisions (LLPs) and risk measures in order to examine the repercussions on advancing approach and profitability.

Design/methodology/approach

The study investigates the effect of explanatory variables on profitability and advancing approach of the banks. The variables used in this study were determined, based on the review of relevant literature and established according to the availability of data for measurement purposes. Inspired by previous research, Hausman test is used in this study to determine whether a random or fixed effects generalized least squares model is best. The linear regression model is applied to strongly balanced panel data obtained from the ten commercial banks.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that Nigerian banking sector considers LLPs in terms of its decision making of advancing approach, while proper inclusion of credit, market and operational risk is more important for South Africa’s banks rather than the maintenance of provisions.

Originality/value

Moreover, the credit risk proves to be more needed factor of consideration for Nigerian rather for South African banks. This is an answer to the strong economy of South Africa as compared to Nigeria and more chances of default faced by Nigerian banks.
Health‐e mums: Evaluating a smartphone app design for diabetes prevention in women with previous gestational diabetes
Authors: O'Reilly Sharleen L. , Laws Rachel
Published: August 2018

Aim

Women with prior gestational diabetes have increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes postpartum. While diabetes prevention programs are effective in reducing a woman's risk, the reach of traditional face‐to‐face programs is poor in this population and using a mHealth approach appears to be promising. We aimed to evaluate a pilot smartphone app developed from an evidence‐based diabetes prevention program specifically for women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus using a series of focus groups to explore the app functionality and messaging.

Methods

The Health‐e Mums app underwent an iterative, three‐phase development: initial development, wireframe development and pilot testing. Twenty‐six women participated in four focus groups during the pilot‐testing phase. The focus group transcripts were analysed thematically to evaluate the app functionality and user‐experience.

Results

Focus group participants identified diabetes screening confusion and a need for personalisation as sub‐themes within the app functionality theme. The user‐experience exploration found generally positive findings but participants had mixed responses to the utility of video segments and applying milestones relating to diabetes prevention guidelines.

Conclusions

A user‐centred approach was taken to develop a diabetes prevention program app for women with prior gestational diabetes. Women were predominantly satisfied with the overall app design, how it functioned and what the user experience would be like when fully developed.
Audit Committees and Managerial Influence on Audit Quality: ‘Voluntary’ versus ‘Mandatory’ Approach to Corporate Governance
Authors: Park Bum‐Jin
Published: August 2018

This study provides empirical evidence on how managerial influence to reduce audit quality is moderated by a combination of the audit committee (AC) form and compliance with AC best practice guidelines. There is a negative association between managerial ownership and audit fees; however, the association becomes positive when a voluntary AC follows best practices. Furthermore, the results are robust to the exclusion of industries with large frequency in the sample, the consideration of Korean business groups and recessionary times. The results of this study imply that a voluntary approach to corporate governance, which encourages companies to follow best practice guidelines in the form and composition of the AC, is more effective in controlling management than a mandatory approach. This study contributes to policy making aimed at improving AC effectiveness.
European Legal Integration: Towards a More Liberal Intergovernmentalist Approach
Authors: Phelan William
Published: August 2018

Moravcsik'sThe Choice for Europeputs forward a distinctive approach to explaining the ‘grand bargains’ by which the European states constructed European integration between the 1950s and 1990s. One notable exclusion fromThe Choice for Europehowever is any detailed engagement with European legal integration, even though the creation of European law and the growing powers of the European Court of Justice must be among the most important European developments during these decades. Inspired by Moravcsik's scholarship, employing more common approaches to enforcement and escape in trade treaty systems as an explicit alternative outcome, and calling attention to the particular economic and social context of post‐war European trade, this article outlines amore‘liberal intergovernmentalist’ approach to European legal integration during the first four decades of European integration, and proposes an agenda for future research.
Prior exercise training improves cold tolerance independent of indices associated with non‐shivering thermogenesis
Authors: Knuth Carly M. , Peppler Willem T. , Townsend Logan K. , Miotto Paula M. , Gudiksen Anders , Wright David C.
Published: August 2018

Key points

Mammals defend against cold‐induced reductions in body temperature through both shivering and non‐shivering thermogenesis. The activation of non‐shivering thermogenesis is primarily driven by uncoupling protein‐1 in brown adipose tissue and to a lesser degree by the browning of white adipose tissue.

Endurance exercise has also been shown to increase markers of white adipose tissue browning.

This study aimed to determine whether prior exercise training would alter the response to a cold challenge and if this would be associated with differences in indices of non‐shivering thermogenesis.

It is shown that exercise training protects against cold‐induced weight loss by increasing food intake. Exercise‐trained mice were better able to maintain their core temperature, independent of differences in markers of non‐shivering thermogenesis.

Shivering is one of the first defences against cold, and as skeletal muscle fatigues there is an increased reliance on non‐shivering thermogenesis. Brown and beige adipose tissues are the primary thermogenic tissues regulating this process. Exercise has also been shown to increase the thermogenic capacity of subcutaneous white adipose tissue. Whether exercise has an effect on the adaptations to cold stress within adipose tissue and skeletal muscle remains to be shown. Male C57BL/6 mice were either subjected to voluntary wheel running or remained sedentary for 12 days. Exercise led to decreased body weight and increased glucose tolerance. Mice were then divided into groups kept at 25°C room temperature or a cold challenge of 4°C for 48 h. Exercised mice were protected against cold‐induced reductions in weight and in parallel with increased food intake. Providing exercised mice with the same amount of food as sedentary mice eliminated the protection against cold‐induced weight loss. Cold exposure led to greater reductions in rectal temperature in sedentary compared to exercised mice. This protective effect was not explained by differences in the browning of white adipose tissue or brown adipose tissue mass. Similarly, the ability of the β3‐adrenergic agonist CL 316,243 to increase energy expenditure was attenuated in previously exercised mice, suggesting that the activation of uncoupling protein‐1 in brown and/or beige adipocytes is not the source of protective effects. We speculate that the protection against cold‐induced reductions in rectal temperature could potentially be linked to exercise‐induced alterations in skeletal muscle.
DNA methylation regulates transcriptional homeostasis of algal endosymbiosis in the coral model Aiptasia
Authors: Li Yong , Liew Yi Jin , Cui Guoxin , Cziesielski Maha J. , Zahran Noura , Michell Craig T. , Voolstra Christian R. , Aranda Manuel
Published: August 2018

The epigenetic mechanism of DNA methylation optimizes gene expression in endosymbiosis between cnidarians and their microalgae.
Control freaks
Authors: Servick Kelly
Published: August 2018

Importing an exotic species for pest control takes years of preparation. What happens when it arrives on its own?
High thermal conductivity in cubic boron arsenide crystals
Authors: Li Sheng , Zheng Qiye , Lv Yinchuan , Liu Xiaoyuan , Wang Xiqu , Huang Pinshane Y. , Cahill David G. , Lv Bing
Published: August 2018

Moving the heat aside with BAs

Thermal management becomes increasingly important as we decrease device size and increase computing power. Engineering materials with high thermal conductivity, such as boron arsenide (BAs), is hard because it is essential to avoid defects and impurities during synthesis, which would stop heat flow. Three different research groups have synthesized BAs with a thermal conductivity around 1000 watts per meter-kelvin: Kang
et al.
, Li
et al.
, and Tian
et al.
succeeded in synthesizing high-purity BAs with conductivities half that of diamond but more than double that of conventional metals (see the Perspective by Dames). The advance validates the search for high-thermal-conductivity materials and provides a new material that may be more easily integrated into semiconducting devices.

Science
, this issue p.
575
, p.
579
, p.
582
; see also p.
549
Tighter lymphatic junctions prevent obesity
Authors: McDonald Donald M.
Published: August 2018

Zippering of cellular junctions in intestinal lacteals prevents fat uptake
Platelets prefer to be shaken, not stirred
Authors: Nance Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2018

Turbulent-flow bioreactors enable clinical scale production of mature, functional platelets.
Using management strategy evaluation to establish indicators of changing fisheries
Authors: Carruthers T.R. , Hordyk A.R.
Published: August 2018

A new indicator is described that uses multivariate posterior predictive data arising from management strategy evaluation (MSE) to detect operating model misspecification (exceptional circumstances) due to changing system dynamics. The statistical power of the indicator was calculated for five case studies for which fishery stock assessments have estimated changes in recruitment, natural mortality rate, growth, fishing efficiency, and size selectivity. The importance of the component data types that inform the indicator was also calculated. The indicator was tested for multiple types of management procedures (e.g., catch limits by stock assessment, size limits, spatial closures) given varying qualities of data. The statistical power of the indicator could be high even over short time periods and depended on the type of system change and quality of data. Statistical power depended strongly on the type of management approach, suggesting that indicators should be established that rigorously account for feedbacks between proposed management and observed data. MSE processes should use alternative operating models to evaluate protocols for exceptional circumstances to ensure they are of acceptable statistical power.
Epigenetic modification of intestinal smooth muscle cell phenotype during proliferation
Authors: Bonafiglia Quinn A. , Lourenssen Sandra R. , Hurlbut David J. , Blennerhassett Michael G.
Published: August 2018

Inflammation causes proliferation of intestinal smooth muscle cells (ISMC), contributing to a thickened intestinal wall and to stricture formation in Crohn’s disease. Proliferation of ISMC in vitro and in vivo caused decreased expression of marker proteins, but the underlying cause is unclear. Since epigenetic change is important in other systems, we used immunocytochemistry, immunoblotting, and quantitative PCR to examine epigenetic modification in cell lines from rat colon at low passage or after extended growth to evaluate phenotype. Exposure to the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor trichostatin A or the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor 5-azacytidine reversed the characteristic loss of phenotypic markers among high-passage cell lines of ISMC. Expression of smooth muscle actin and smooth muscle protein 22, as well as functional expression of the neurotrophin glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor, was markedly increased. Increased expression of muscarinic receptor 3 and myosin light chain kinase was correlated with an upregulated response to cholinergic stimulation. In human ISMC (hISMC) lines from the terminal ileum, phenotype was similarly affected by extended proliferation. However, in hISMC from resected Crohn’s strictures, we observed a significantly reduced contractile phenotype compared with patient-matched intrinsic controls that was associated with increased patient-specific expression of DNA methyltransferase 1, HDAC2, and HDAC5. Therefore, protracted growth causes epigenetic alterations that account for an altered phenotype of ISMC. A similar process may promote stricture formation in Crohn’s disease, where the potential for halting progression, or even reversal, of disease through control of phenotypic modulation may become a novel treatment option.
Inhibition failures and late errors in the antisaccade task: influence of cue delay
Authors: Aponte Eduardo A. , Tschan Dominic G. , Stephan Klaas E. , Heinzle Jakob
Published: August 2018

In the antisaccade task participants are required to saccade in the opposite direction of a peripheral visual cue (PVC). This paradigm is often used to investigate inhibition of reflexive responses as well as voluntary response generation. However, it is not clear to what extent different versions of this task probe the same underlying processes. Here, we explored with the Stochastic Early Reaction, Inhibition, and late Action (SERIA) model how the delay between task cue and PVC affects reaction time (RT) and error rate (ER) when pro- and antisaccade trials are randomly interleaved. Specifically, we contrasted a condition in which the task cue was presented before the PVC with a condition in which the PVC served also as task cue. Summary statistics indicate that ERs and RTs are reduced and contextual effects largely removed when the task is signaled before the PVC appears. The SERIA model accounts for RT and ER in both conditions and better so than other candidate models. Modeling demonstrates that voluntary pro- and antisaccades are frequent in both conditions. Moreover, early task cue presentation results in better control of reflexive saccades, leading to fewer fast antisaccade errors and more rapid correct prosaccades. Finally, high-latency errors are shown to be prevalent in both conditions. In summary, SERIA provides an explanation for the differences in the delayed and nondelayed antisaccade task.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY In this article, we use a computational model to study the mixed antisaccade task. We contrast two conditions in which the task cue is presented either before or concurrently with the saccadic target. Modeling provides a highly accurate account of participants’ behavior and demonstrates that a significant number of prosaccades are voluntary actions. Moreover, we provide a detailed quantitative analysis of the types of error that occur in pro- and antisaccade trials.
Cerebellum and cognition in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Schreck Laura , Ryan Shane , Monaghan Patrick
Published: August 2018

Kalron et al. (Kalron A, Allali G, Achiron A. J Neurol 265: 809–816, 2018.) report that people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) who fall show a decreased cerebellar volume along with decreased overall cognition compared with nonfallers. While their paper focuses on cerebellar and cognitive alterations in PwMS, these findings may also be explained by additional factors such as aging and have the potential for broader impact in additional clinical populations who simultaneously experience cognitive and mobility dysfunction.
Neurophysiological analysis of the clinical pull test
Authors: Tan Joy Lynn , Perera Thushara , McGinley Jennifer L. , Yohanandan Shivanthan Arthur Curtis , Brown Peter , Thevathasan Wesley
Published: August 2018

Postural reflexes are impaired in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, leading to difficulty walking and falls. In clinical practice, postural responses are assessed using the “pull test,” where an examiner tugs the prewarned standing patient backward at the shoulders and grades the response. However, validity of the pull test is debated, with issues including scaling and variability in administration and interpretation. It is unclear whether to assess the first trial or only subsequent repeated trials. The ecological relevance of a forewarned backward challenge is also debated. We therefore developed an instrumented version of the pull test to characterize responses and clarify how the test should be performed and interpreted. In 33 healthy participants, “pulls” were manually administered and pull force measured. Trunk and step responses were assessed with motion tracking. We probed for the StartReact phenomenon (where preprepared responses are released early by a startling stimulus) by delivering concurrent normal or “startling” auditory stimuli. We found that the first pull triggers a different response, including a larger step size suggesting more destabilization. This is consistent with “first trial effects,” reported by platform translation studies, where movement execution appears confounded by startle reflex-like activity. Thus, first pull test trials have clinical relevance and should not be discarded as practice. Supportive of ecological relevance, responses to repeated pulls exhibited StartReact, as previously reported with a variety of other postural challenges, including those delivered with unexpected timing and direction. Examiner pull force significantly affected the postural response, particularly the size of stepping.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We characterized postural responses elicited by the clinical “pull test” using instrumentation. The first pull triggers a different response, including a larger step size suggesting more destabilization. Thus, first trials likely have important clinical and ecological relevance and should not be discarded as practice. Responses to repeated pulls can be accelerated with a startling stimulus, as reported with a variety of other challenges. Examiner pull force was a significant factor influencing the postural response.
Neuronal population mechanisms of lightness perception
Authors: Ruff Douglas A. , Brainard David H. , Cohen Marlene R.
Published: August 2018

The way that humans and animals perceive the lightness of an object depends on its physical luminance as well as its surrounding context. While neuronal responses throughout the visual pathway are modulated by context, the relationship between neuronal responses and lightness perception is poorly understood. We searched for a neuronal mechanism of lightness by recording responses of neuronal populations in monkey primary visual cortex (V1) and area V4 to stimuli that produce a lightness illusion in humans, in which the lightness of a disk depends on the context in which it is embedded. We found that the way individual units encode the luminance (or equivalently for our stimuli, contrast) of the disk and its context is extremely heterogeneous. This motivated us to ask whether the population representation in either V1 or V4 satisfies three criteria: 1) disk luminance is represented with high fidelity, 2) the context surrounding the disk is also represented, and 3) the representations of disk luminance and context interact to create a representation of lightness that depends on these factors in a manner consistent with human psychophysical judgments of disk lightness. We found that populations of units in both V1 and V4 fulfill the first two criteria but that we cannot conclude that the two types of information in either area interact in a manner that clearly predicts human psychophysical measurements: the interpretation of our population measurements depends on how subsequent areas read out lightness from the population responses.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY A core question in visual neuroscience is how the brain extracts stable representations of object properties from the retinal image. We searched for a neuronal mechanism of lightness perception by determining whether the responses of neuronal populations in primary visual cortex and area V4 could account for a lightness illusion measured using human psychophysics. Our results suggest that comparing psychophysics with population recordings will yield insight into neuronal mechanisms underlying a variety of perceptual phenomena.
Monogenic Intestinal Epithelium Defects and the Development of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Leung Gabriella , Muise Aleixo M.
Published: August 2018

The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is increasing worldwide, most notably in young children. The development of disease is a combination of several factors, including genetics, environment, the microbiota, and immune system. Recently, next-generation sequencing has allowed for the identification of novel genetic causes for intestinal disease, including pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These IBD genes can generally be grouped into genes causing either primary immunodeficiency or intestinal epithelial defects (the focus of this review). Most of these genes have been functionally validated with in vitro and/or animal models, and have been demonstrated to cause intestinal disease. Intestinal epithelial IBD genes are of particular interest since they are the least amenable to current therapies; therefore, further research is warranted to develop potential therapies. A number of cellular pathways are impacted with intestinal epithelial IBD genes, including intestinal epithelial cell adhesion and generation of reactive oxygen species. Here, we describe the currently known IBD risk alleles and monogenic causal intestinal epithelial genes, their putative roles in preserving intestinal epithelial cell homeostasis, and their implications for IBD pathophysiology.
Effects of Tai Chi on Self‐Efficacy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tong Yingge , Chai Ling , Lei Song , Liu Miaomiao , Yang Lei
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this systematic review is to summarize and update the readers regarding clinical studies that have investigated the effects of Tai Chi on self‐efficacy and to describe their limitations and biases. Nine electronic databases were searched from the establishment of the database until August 10, 2017. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs), nonrandomized controlled studies (NRSs), quasi‐experimental studies, or studies with pre‐post design were included if they clearly defined a Tai Chi intervention and evaluated self‐efficacy outcomes. We categorized these 27 studies into the “disease category” and the “population category,” based on the types of participants. This systematic review summarizes the effects of Tai Chi on self‐efficacy in various populations and found that Tai Chi appeared to have positive effects on self‐efficacy in some populations. Fifteen research studies showed that Tai Chi had significant positive effects on self‐efficacy, while 11 studies did not; only one study found a negative outcome at the follow‐up. In addition, it is unclear which type, frequency, and duration of Tai Chi intervention most effectively enhanced self‐efficacy. Tai Chi appears to be associated with improvements in self‐efficacy. Definitive conclusions were limited due to the variation in study designs, type of Tai Chi intervention, and frequency, and further high‐quality studies are required.
Adaptive OFDM‐IM for Enhancing Physical Layer Security and Spectral Efficiency of Future Wireless Networks
Authors: Furqan Haji M. , Hamamreh Jehad M. , Arslan Huseyin
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we propose algorithms for enhancing physical layer security and spectral efficiency of Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) with Index Modulation (IM) systems. Particularly, different activation ratios and/or Constellation Modulation orders are selected adaptively for each subblock based on the channel quality of the legitimate receiver. More specifically, three approaches named as (1) OFDM with Adaptive Index Modulation and Fixed Constellation Modulation (OFDM‐AIM‐FCM), (2) OFDM with Adaptive Index Modulation and Adaptive Constellation Modulation (OFDM‐AIM‐ACM), and (3) OFDM with Variable Index Modulation and Variable Constellation Modulation (OFDM‐VIM‐VCM) are proposed for enhancing physical layer security and spectral efficiency. Simulation results are presented to investigate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
Acoustic Emission Source Localization System Using Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors and a Barycentric Coordinate-Based Algorithm
Authors: Pang Dandan , Sui Qingmei , Wang Ming , Sai Yaozhang , Sun Rongyao , Wang Yikang
Published: August 2018

Structures and machines are very susceptible to some barely visible defects; acoustic emission (AE) is an effective technique of detecting defects and examining growth and location of these defects. In this paper, a new method was proposed to predict the position of the AE source. The dynamic strain signal from the AE source was acquired by fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors. Complex Morlet wavelet transform was used to extract narrowband signals from AE waves. It was proposed that the barycentric coordinate-based localization algorithm can be used to predict the coordinates of the AE source. The validation tests based on the designed AE detection system were performed on a 500 mm × 500 mm × 2 mm Al-alloy plate. The experimental results show that the proposed method is feasible.
A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Effects of Topically Applied Cosmetic Creams on Epidermal Responses
Authors: Kelchen Megan N. , Menon Gopi , Ten Eyck Patrick , Prettypaul Donald , Brogden Nicole K.
Published: August 2018

Application of exogenous products, such as creams, to the skin can result in subclinical changes in selected epidermal functions such as transepidermal water loss (TEWL), hydration, redness, and pH; these changes may lead to or contribute to irritation. Changes in skin surface inflammatory factors may provide further insight into this potential for irritation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the changes in epidermal properties and inflammatory mediators after 4 days of topical application of 2 different polymers formulated in cosmetic creams. Ten healthy volunteers (mean age ± SD: 20.0 ± 2.4 years) completed the study. TEWL, color, and pH were not significantly different after repeated application of these polymers. Hydration was significantly lower at sites treated with polymer A after 5 days. Significant increases in IL-1α, IL-1RA, and IL-1β were observed after cream application at sites treated with polymer A. This is the first study to apply noninvasive measurements to quantify subclinical changes in epidermal properties and inflammatory mediator expression before and after the application of a cosmetic product, which will allow for a more enhanced safety profile to be achieved.
Effect of Growth Hormone Therapy on Height Velocity in Korean Children with Idiopathic Short Stature: A Phase III Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Chung Woo Yeong , Yoo Han-Wook , Hwang Jin Soon , Ko Cheol Woo , Kim Ho-Seong , Jin Dong-Kyu , Lee Kee-Hyoung , Han Heon-Seok , Paranchothy Premila , Suh Byung-Kyu
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: The SYNERGY (Saizen® for Your New Life and Brighter Tomorrow without Growth Deficiency) study is the first randomised multi-centre, open-label study to assess the short-term efficacy and safety of this recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) preparation for prepubertal children with idiopathic short stature in South Korea. Methods: The SYNERGY study (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01746862) was conducted at 9 centres throughout South Korea between December 2012 and March 2015. The primary endpoint was difference in height velocity from baseline to 6 months in the treatment and control arms. Results: 97 children were screened; 90 were randomly assigned: 60 children to 0.067 mg/kg/day r-hGH for 12 months (treatment) and 30 children to 6 months of no treatment followed by 0.067 mg/kg/day r-hGH for 6 months (control). The 6-month mean height velocity in the treatment group increased from 5.63 cm/year (SD 1.62) to 10.08 cm/year (SD 1.92) (p < 0.0001) and from 4.94 cm/year (SD 1.91) to 5.92 cm/year (SD 2.01) (p = 0.0938) in the control group (between-group difference 3.47 cm/year, 95% CI 2.17–4.78; p < 0.0001). Adherence was > 90% throughout the study. The safety profile was consistent with that already known for r-hGH. Conclusion: Treatment with r-hGH in the SYNERGY study demonstrated a statistically significant increase in height velocity at 6 months.
HepaRG-Progenitor Cell Derived Hepatocytes Cultured in Bioartificial Livers Are Protected from Healthy- and Acute Liver Failure-Plasma Induced Toxicity
Authors: van Wenum Martien , Treskes Philipp , Adam Aziza A.A. , van der Mark Vincent. A , Jongejan Aldo , Moerland Perry D. , van Gulik Thomas M. , Oude Elferink Ronald P.J. , Chamuleau Robert A.F.M. , Hoekstra Ruurdtje
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: For applicability of cell-based therapies aimed at the treatment of liver failure, such as bioartificial livers (BALs) and hepatocyte transplantation, it is essential that the applied hepatocytes tolerate exposure to the patient plasma. However, plasma from both healthy donors and acute liver failure (ALF) patients is detrimental to hepatocytes and hepatic cell lines, such as HepaRG. We aimed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of plasma-induced toxicity against HepaRG cells in order to ultimately develop methods to reduce this toxicity and render HepaRG-BAL treatment more effective. Methods: Differentiated HepaRG cells cultured in monolayers and laboratory-scale BALs were exposed to culture medium, healthy human plasma, healthy porcine plasma and ALF porcine plasma. Healthy human plasma was fractionated based on size- and polarity, albumin depleted and heat treated to characterize the toxic fraction. The cells were assessed for viability by total protein content and trypan blue staining. Their hepatic differentiation was assessed on transcript level through qRT-PCR and microarray analysis, and on functional level for Cytochrome P450 3A4 activity and ammonia elimination. Mitochondrial damage was assessed by JC-1 staining and mitochondrial gene transcription. Results: Sixteen hours of healthy human plasma exposure did not affect viability, however, hepatic gene-transcript levels decreased dramatically and dose-dependently within four hours of exposure. These changes were associated with early NF-kB signaling and a shift from mitochondrial energy metabolism towards glycolysis. Healthy human plasma-toxicity was associated with the dose-dependent presence of heat-resistant, albumin-bound and (partly) hydrophobic toxic compound(s). HepaRG cells cultured in BALs were partially protected from plasma-toxicity, which was mainly attributable to medium perfusion and/or 3D configuration applied during BAL culturing. The detrimental human plasma effects were reversible in BAL-cultured cells. Porcine ALF-plasma elicited mitotoxicity additional to the basal detrimental effect of porcine healthy plasma, which were only partially reversible. Conclusion: A specific fraction of human plasma reduces hepatic differentiation of HepaRG cultures, in association with early NF-κB activation. In addition, ALF-plasma elicits mitotoxic effects. These findings allow for a targeted approach in preventing plasma-induced cell damage.
Ridsdalea alba (Rubiaceae), a new species from southern Thailand
Authors: KHAMMONGKOL KWANJAI , CHAMCHUMROON VORADOL , POOPATH MANOP , VAJRODAYA SARUNYA , SUNGKAEW SARAWOOD
Published: August 2018

Ridsdalea alba, a new species of Gardenieae from southern Thailand, is described and illustrated. It differs from R. sootepensis in having narrowly elliptic-oblong to obovate leaf blades that are glossy dark green above, thickly leathery in texture, with rounded to acute leaf apices, and revolute leaf margins. Moreover, the corolla tube is without purple speckles inside.
Two new species of Homalotrichus Solier, 1849 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) from Peru
Authors: PÉREZ LUIS , RODRÍGUEZ MARYZENDER , ASENJO ANGÉLICO
Published: August 2018

Two new species of Homalotrichus Solier, 1849 are described from the Peruvian highlands: H. yana sp. nov. (Cuzco and Junin) and H. shapra sp. nov. (Cajamarca). Photographs and drawings of the major diagnostic characters are provided for the new species. This contribution confirms the occurrence of the genus in Peru.
Memory: Looking back and looking forward
Authors: Aggleton John P. , Morris Richard G. M.
Published: August 2018

This review brings together past and present achievements in memory research, ranging from molecular to psychological discoveries. Despite some false starts, major advances include our growing understanding of learning-related neural plasticity and the characterisation of different classes of memory. One striking example is the ability to reactivate targeted neuronal ensembles so that an animal will seemingly re-experience a particular memory, with the further potential to modify such memories. Meanwhile, human functional imaging studies can distinguish individual episodic memories based on voxel activation patterns. While the hippocampus continues to provide a rich source of information, future progress requires broadening our research to involve other sites. Related challenges include the need to understand better the role of glial–neuron interactions and to look beyond the synapse as the sole site of experience-dependent plasticity. Unmet goals include translating our neuroscientific knowledge in order to optimise learning and memory, especially among disadvantaged populations.
Ocean acidification does not limit squid metabolism via blood oxygen supply
Authors: Birk Matthew A. , McLean Erin L. , Seibel Brad A.
Published: August 2018

Ocean acidification is hypothesized to limit the performance of squids due to their exceptional oxygen demand and pH-sensitivity of blood-oxygen binding, which may reduce oxygen supply in acidified waters. The critical oxygen partial pressure (Pcrit), the PO2 below which oxygen supply cannot match basal demand, is a commonly reported index of hypoxia tolerance. Any CO2-induced reduction in oxygen supply should be apparent as an increase in Pcrit. In this study, we assessed the effects of CO2 (46-143 Pa; 455-1410 μatm) on the metabolic rate and Pcrit of two squid species - Dosidicus gigas and Doryteuthis pealeii - through manipulative experiments. We also developed a model, with inputs for hemocyanin pH-sensitivity, blood PCO2, and buffering capacity that simulates blood oxygen supply under varying seawater CO2 partial pressures. We compare model outputs to measured Pcrit in squids. Using blood-O2 parameters from the literature for model inputs, we estimated that, in the absence of blood acid-base regulation, an increase in seawater PCO2 to 100 Pa (≈ 1000 μatm) would result in a maximum drop in arterial hemocyanin-O2 saturation by 1.6% at normoxia and a Pcrit increase of ≈0.5 kPa. Our live-animal experiments support this supposition, as CO2 had no effect on measured metabolic rate or Pcrit in either squid species.
ОЦЕНКА ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТИ ЭКСТРАКТА HALOCYNTHIA AURANTIUM ПРИ ЭКСПЕРИМЕНТАЛЬНОМ ЛУЧЕВОМ ПОРАЖЕНИИ
Authors: Ponomareva Tatiana Ivanovna
Published: August 2018

Проведено исследование лечебного эффекта экстракта из морского гидробионта Halocynthia aurantium при радиационном воздействии. Экстракт асцидии (ЭА) содержит комплекс биологически активных веществ и обладает способностью повышать неспецифическую резистентность организма к действию ряда экстремальных повреждающих факторов.Объектом исследования являлись мыши BALB/с подвергнутые γ-облучению излучением малой мощности.Цель работы состояла в оценке лечебного влияния ЭА на пострадиационную динамику показателей периферической крови и клеточность костного мозга (доза 5 Гр) и на исход радиационного поражения (доза 13 Гр). ЭА животные получали ежедневно в течение всего эксперимента, начиная в день окончания облучения.Методика взятия материала и анализ элементов периферической крови и костного мозга стандартная. Показано, что в ранние сроки после облучения наблюдалось резкое снижение общего числа лейкоцитов периферической крови и ядросодержащих клеток в костном мозге. Ежедневное применение ЭА способствовало ускорению восстановления клеточного состава костного мозга и увеличению общего числа лейкоцитов и тромбоцитов в периферической крови.Можно заключить, что применение ЭА после радиационного воздействия позволило существенно повысить вероятность благоприятного исхода острой лучевой болезни при дозе облучения 5 Гр и облегчить ее течение.