bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Periostin alters transcriptional profile in a rat model of isoproterenol-induced cardiotoxicity
Authors: Sözmen M , Devrim AK , Kabak YB , Devrim T
Published: October 2018

Periostin is an extracellular matrix protein from the fasciclin family that guides cellular trafficking and extracellular matrix organization. Periostin stimulates mature cardiomyocytes to reenter the cell cycle. The molecular mechanism behind such stimulation remains to be explored. A DNA microarray technology constituting 30,429 gene-level probe sets was utilized to investigate effects of recombinant murine periostin peptide on the gene expression pattern in a rat model of isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial injury. The experiment was performed on 84 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats in four groups ( n = 21): (1) control group, (2) only periostin applied group, (3) ISO cardiotoxicity group, and (4) ISO + periostin group. The experiment was continued for 28 days, and rats were killed on days 1, 7, and 28 ( n = 7). Microarray analyses revealed that periostin significantly altered the expression of at least ±2-fold of 2474 genes in the ISO + periostin group compared to the ISO cardiotoxicity group of which 521 genes altered out of 30,429 gene-level probe sets. Ingenuity pathway analysis indicated that multiple pathway networks were affected by periostin, with predominant changes occurring in the expression of genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation, oxidative stress, fatty acid metabolism, and TNF-α NF-κB signaling pathways. These findings indicate that periostin alters gene expression profile in the ISO-induced myocardial injury and modulates local myocardial inflammation, possibly mitigating inflammation through TNF-α NF-κB signaling pathway along with a decreased Casp7 activity and apoptotic cell death.
Identification of Myocardial Telocytes and Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Mice
Authors: Zhong Xin , Zheng Yonghua , Li Hua , Huang Steve , Ge Junbo
Published: October 2018

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to compare the morphology, immune phenotype, and cytokine profiles between myocardial telocytes (TCs) and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and explore the difference between those two types of interstitial cells.

Methods:

TCs and MSCs were cultured in vitro and cell morphology was observed with a light microscope. The expression levels of CD34, c-kit, and vimentin were detected by immunofluorescence, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting in both TCs and MSCs. The related supernatant was collected and total of 49 cytokine profiles were detected by RayBio Mice Cytokine Antibody Array. Significantly different cytokines were further confirmed by ELISA.

Results:

TCs have small cellular body and very long prolongations and they were CD34+/c-kit+/vimentin+, whereas MSCs have no telopodes and they were CD34–/c-kit– /vimentin+. Cytokine profile analysis and ELISA showed that 19 of 49 cytokines were increased dramatically in the supernatant of TCs compared with those of MSCs. Moreover, 9 of 19 cytokines were increased 2-fold at least in the supernatant of TCs compared with those of MSCs. Of 49 cytokines, 30 exhibited no significant changes in the supernatant of TCs compared with those of MSCs.

Conclusions:

Using various technologies, we identified that myocardial TCs and MSCs are significantly different in terms of cell structure and cytokine profiles.
In Vitro Derivation of Functional Sertoli-Like Cells from Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Seol Dong-Won , Park Seah , Shin Eun Young , Chang Jae Ho , Lee Dong Ryul
Published: October 2018

Sertoli cells (SCs) in the mammalian testes are well known as supporting cells of spermatogenesis, but have recently become an attractive source of cell therapy because of their capacity for immune modulation and trophic effects. In order to increase their applicable efficacy, we demonstrate a novel differentiation method for mouse embryonic stem cell (ESC)-derived Sertoli-like cells (SLCs) via the intermediate mesoderm (IM). We show that IM derived from an induction of 6 days expressed markers such as Wt1, Lhx1, Pax2 and Osr1, and that a sequential induction of 6 days resulted in ESC-SLCs. The SLCs expressed their marker genes ( Sf1, Sox9, Gata4, Wt1, Fshr and Scf), but the pluripotency-marker gene Oct4 was decreased. After sorting by FSHR expression, high-purity (> 90%) SLCs were collected that showed distinct characteristics of SCs such as high phagocytic and immune modulation activities as well as the expression of immune-related genes. In addition, when transplanted into the seminiferous tubule of busulfan-treated mice, SLCs re-located and were maintained in the basal region of the tubule. These results demonstrated that our robust sequential differentiation system produced functional SLCs from mouse ESCs in vitro.
Omental Pouch Technique for Combined Site Islet Autotransplantation Following Total Pancreatectomy
Authors: Stice Mark J. , Dunn Ty B. , Bellin Melena D. , Skube Mariya E. , Beilman Greg J.
Published: October 2018

Total pancreatectomy and islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) is an effective treatment for selected patients with chronic pancreatitis. The portal circulation is the standard infusion site for islet transplant, but marked elevation of portal pressures may prevent complete islet infusion. Herein we report a novel technique of combined site islet autotransplantation using an omental pouch. This technique may be useful when technical limitations prevent complete intraportal transplantation. In four TPIAT recipients with intraoperative issues precluding the complete intraportal infusion of islets, an omental pouch was created to contain the remaining islet mass. Patients were monitored for complications, and islet graft function was assessed using mixed meal tolerance testing and compared with matched controls who received only intraportally transplanted islets. All patients had decreasing insulin requirements as their recovery progressed. At 3 months follow-up there were no significant differences in glycemic control or graft function for the combined site recipients compared with their matched controls who only received an intraportal islet infusion. The omentum has potentially desirable qualities such as accessibility, capacity, and systemic/portal vascularity comparable to the native pancreas. The omental pouch technique may represent a safe and effective alternate site for islet autotransplantation. Further study is needed to confirm these findings.
Behavior of a smart one-way micro-valve considering fluid–structure interaction
Authors: Mazaheri H , Namdar AH , Amiri A
Published: October 2018

Smart hydrogels are soft materials which can be applied in sensors and actuators especially in microfluidics in which the fluid–structure interaction is important. In this work, first, the behavior of a one-way hydrogel micro-valve is investigated by considering the fluid–structure interaction effect for a specified geometry of the micro-valve. Second, both the fluid–structure interaction and non-fluid–structure interaction simulations are conducted to study the fluid flow effect on the operational parameters of the micro-valve. The obtained results show that the fluid–structure interaction effects are important and have a considerable influence on the micro-valve parameters especially on its closing temperature. Thereafter, a precise study on the micro-valve is executed by considering the micro-valve operational parameters such as inlet pressure, head size, crosslinking density, and breaking pressure at different temperatures. The results show the importance of considering the fluid–structure interaction effect in the design of these devices.
Experiences of Posttraumatic Growth in Witnesses to the July 15 Coup Attempt in Turkey
Authors: Simsir Zeynep , Dilmac Bulent
Published: October 2018

The July 15, 2016 coup attempt in Turkey shocked the entire Turkish nation and left deep traces on Turkish citizens. People living in Ankara and İstanbul province were direct witnesses to these events and faced with images that resembled a battle scene. The aim of this research is to reveal the experiences of posttraumatic growth among individuals who directly witnessed the July 15 coup attempt. This qualitative research was carried out with a phenomenological design. Participants in the study consisted of 20 adults living in Ankara and İstanbul. Five themes were found in the analysis: self-perception, new possibilities in life, relating to others, religious/spiritual change, perspective on life, and perception of future. The results of the research showed that many positive changes occurred in the lives of individuals who had a coup experience.
A study of test and statistical damage constitutive model of multi-size polypropylene fiber concrete under impact load
Authors: Yang Xin , Liang Ninghui , Liu Xinrong , Zhong Zuliang
Published: October 2018

To investigate the effects of mixing polypropylene fiber of different sizes and the effect of fiber size on the impact characteristics of concrete, two sizes of polypropylene fine fiber and one size of polypropylene coarse fiber were selected to design and fabricate nine groups of polypropylene fiber-reinforced concrete test specimens by controlling the fiber mixing ratio and conducting a split Hopkinson pressure bar test to obtain the stress–strain curves of the test specimens in various groups, and their parameters such as the elasticity modulus, peak strength, and peak strain. The incorporation of fiber improved the pre-peak impact properties of concrete to different extents. Strain hardening did not occur in the post-peak curves, and different types of fibers exhibited different characteristics. Thus, the fine fiber could significantly improve the peak strain, while the coarse fiber could more significantly improve the elasticity modulus and peak strength. The improving effects exerted by incorporating three types of fiber were better than those exerted by incorporating two types of fiber. Moreover, the statistical damage model was used to obtain the parameters by fitting and analyzing their variation rules based on the statistical damage constitutive model and the particle swarm optimization algorithm.
Factors associated with early and late failure after goniotomy for primary pediatric glaucoma
Authors: Hassanein Dina H , Awadein Ahmed , Elhilali Hala
Published: October 2018

Purpose:

To analyze the risk factors associated with early and late failure after goniotomy for primary pediatric glaucoma.

Methods:

A retrospective study was done on infants who underwent goniotomy as the initial surgical procedure for primary pediatric glaucoma, and had a follow-up period ⩾48 months after surgery. Early and late failures were defined as intraocular pressure ⩾18 mmHg or signs of glaucoma progression before and after the end of first year, respectively.

Results:

A total of 81 eyes of 47 children were included. The mean age at the time of surgery was 6.1 ± 6.7 months, 34 children (72.3%) were bilateral. The mean follow-up was 5.9 ± 2.8 years. Of the included eyes, 41 eyes (50.6%) showed success, 25 eyes (30.9%) showed an early failure, and 15 eyes (18.5%) showed a late failure. The mean survival time was 43 months. However, only surgery before the end of the first month and positive consanguinity of the parents (P < 0.01 for both) were independent risk factors for early and late failure of goniotomy for primary pediatric glaucoma. Patients with late failure showed a statistically significant lower preoperative intraocular pressure (P = 0.02). A larger preoperative corneal diameter and a male gender were associated with higher but statistically insignificant failure rates. There were no differences in the early or late failure rates between unilateral and bilateral cases.

Conclusion:

A positive consanguinity of the parents and surgery before the end of the first month are the major predictors of failure of goniotomy.
Evaluation of Serum Apolipoprotein E as a Potential Biomarker for Pharmacological Therapeutic Efficacy Monitoring in Dopamine Dictated Disease Spectrum of Schizophrenia and Parkinson’s disease: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Gupta Ashish Kumar , Rani Komal , Swarnkar Surabhi , Kumar Gaurav Khunger , Khan Mohd Imran , Pokhriyal Ruchika , Kumar Domada Ratna , Goyal Vinay , Tripathi Manjari , Gupta Rishab , Chadda Rakesh Kumar , Vanamail Perumal , Hariprasad Gururao
Published: October 2018

Aim of the Study:

Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia are disease end points of dopaminergic deficit and hyperactivity, respectively, in the mid brain. Accordingly, current medications aim to restore normal dopamine levels, overshooting of which results in adverse effects of psychosis and extra-pyramidal symptoms, respectively. There are currently no available laboratory tests to guide treatment decisions or help predict adverse side effects of the drugs. The aim was to therefore explore the possibility of using apolipoprotein E as a biomarker to monitor pharmacological intervention in dopamine dictated states of Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia for optimum therapy.

Methods:

Naïve and treated, Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenic patients were recruited from neurology and psychiatry clinics. Serum of healthy volunteers was collected as controls. Serum concentrations of apolipoprotein E was estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pathway analysis was carried out to delineate the interactions of apolipoprotein E in Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia.

Results:

Apolipoprotein E levels are higher in Parkinson’s disease patients as compared with schizophrenic samples ( P < .05). Also, post-treatment apolipoprotein E levels in both disease states were at par with levels seen in healthy controls. The interactions of apolipoprotein E validate the results and place the differential expression of the protein in Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia in the right perspective.

Conclusion:

Apolipoprotein E concentration across the dopaminergic spectrum suggests that it can be pursued not only as a potential biomarker in schizophrenia and Parkinson’s disease, but can also be an effective tool for clinicians to determine efficacy of drug-based therapy.
Voice of Ireland? Children and music within asylum seeker accommodation
Authors: Kenny Ailbhe
Published: October 2018

This article examines the musical lives of children of asylum seekers living under direct provision in Ireland. Direct Provision is a controversial state system of communal housing for asylum seekers while they wait for their refugee applications to be processed. One third of all asylum seekers living under Direct Provision in Ireland are children. A knowledge gap exists on the cultural rights and needs of these marginalised children. Through participatory methods, the research presented examines the role of music for these children within one of the direct provision settings as well as their musical values, identities, and types of musical participation engaged in. Data was collected through six participatory music workshops, video observations, a researcher reflective log and focus group interviews. There were 11 children involved aged between 7–12 years, representing six nationalities and both genders. Findings reveal the importance and relevance of the contexts of music-making within temporary accommodation settings as well as the broader national and international contexts of children living within asylum seeking systems.
Spatial price dependencies between the traditional accommodation sector and the sharing economy
Authors: Önder Irem , Weismayer Christian , Gunter Ulrich
Published: October 2018

The emergence of peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation (e.g. Airbnb) has steadily increased the pressure on the traditional accommodation sector. Although Airbnb listings are perceived as being more affordable than hotels, this has not yet been conclusively demonstrated. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate whether significant price dependencies exist between the Airbnb and traditional accommodation sectors and to analyze the underlying pricing strategies. For this purpose, the Estonian capital city of Tallinn is used as a case example. Airbnb data, prices and locations of hotels in Tallinn, as well as spatial information such as distance to points of interest (POIs), and so on, are used in hedonic price regression models. The results show that Airbnb pricing positively depends on characteristics of the listing and the number of POIs within an optimal 650 m radius, which is obtained from a simulation study. Also, prices of hotels and of other Airbnb listings within the same radius positively impact Airbnb listing prices. Finally, Airbnb accommodations are shown to indeed be the more affordable alternative.
Changes in Smoking During Retirement Transition: A Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Pulakka Anna , Halonen Jaana I. , Pentti Jaana , Kivimäki Mika , Vahtera Jussi , Stenholm Sari
Published: October 2018

Aims: We examined the effect of retirement transition on changes in smoking, identified trajectories of smoking around the retirement transition, and investigated factors predicting the membership in the trajectories. Methods: This longitudinal cohort study included 1,432 current or former smokers who entered into statutory retirement in 2000–2011 and who filled out two to four questionnaires sent at four-year intervals. Effect of retirement on smoking was analysed as a non-randomized pseudo-trial in which we compared the likelihood of quitting and relapsing smoking between two subsequent survey waves among those who retired and did not retire. We used latent class analysis to identify trajectories of smoking status and smoking intensity (low: <10 cigarettes/day or high: ⩾10 cigarettes/day), and multinomial logistic regression models to assess pre-retirement factors associated with smoking trajectories. Results: Retirement transition was associated with 1.7-fold odds of quitting smoking (95% confidence intervals 1.3−2.2) compared with no retirement transition. We identified three smoking status trajectories: ‘sustained non-smoking’ (61% of the participants), ‘sustained smoking’ (23%) and ‘decreasing smoking’ (16%). For 489 baseline smokers, we identified three smoking intensity trajectories: ‘sustained high intensity smoking’ (32% of the participants), ‘sustained low intensity smoking’ (32%) and ‘decreasing high intensity smoking’ (35%). Living outside an inner urban area predicted membership in the ‘decreasing smoking’ versus ‘sustained smoking’ trajectory. Conclusions: Smokers are more likely to quit smoking during transition to retirement than before or after it. Characteristics of the smoking environment may affect smoking behaviour around retirement.
Spring School on Language, Music, and Cognition
Authors: Asano Rie , Bornus Pia , Craft Justin T. , Dolscheid Sarah , Faber Sarah E. M. , Haase Viviana , Heimerich Marvin , Kopparti Radha , Lobben Marit , Osawa Ayumi M. , Oudyk Kendra , Trettenbrein Patrick C. , Varelmann Timo , Wehrle Simon , Ya Runa , Grice Martine , Vogeley Kai
Published: October 2018

The interdisciplinary spring school “Language, music, and cognition: Organizing events in time” was held from February 26 to March 2, 2018 at the Institute of Musicology of the University of Cologne. Language, speech, and music as events in time were explored from different perspectives including evolutionary biology, social cognition, developmental psychology, cognitive neuroscience of speech, language, and communication, as well as computational and biological approaches to language and music. There were 10 lectures, 4 workshops, and 1 student poster session.

Overall, the spring school investigated language and music as neurocognitive systems and focused on a mechanistic approach exploring the neural substrates underlying musical, linguistic, social, and emotional processes and behaviors. In particular, researchers approached questions concerning cognitive processes, computational procedures, and neural mechanisms underlying the temporal organization of language and music, mainly from two perspectives: one was concerned with syntax or structural representations of language and music as neurocognitive systems (i.e., an intrapersonal perspective), while the other emphasized social interaction and emotions in their communicative function (i.e., an interpersonal perspective). The spring school not only acted as a platform for knowledge transfer and exchange but also generated a number of important research questions as challenges for future investigations.
Analyzing Error Perception and Recognition Among Professional Communication Practitioners and Academics
Authors: Boettger Ryan K. , Emory Moore Lindsay
Published: October 2018

We investigated the perception and recognition of errors in a population of practitioners and academics in professional and technical communication. Specifically, we measured 303 participants’ botheration levels of 24 usage errors and then correlated those results against their ability to recognize the errors. Results indicated that practitioners were often more bothered by errors than academics and that participants’ overall botheration level might have fluctuated over the past 40 years. Participants’ botheration level also appeared to associate with their ability to identify error. Finally, we found that participants’ gender, job type, and years working in the field influence their error perception.
What’s in a Name? Role Clarity Goes Well Beyond a Simple Title
Authors: Turner David A , Rehder Kyle J , Nagler Alisa , Aucoin Julia , Edwards Pam , Kuhn Catherine
Published: October 2018

Background:

Role clarity is important for patient care but challenging in graduate medical education (GME).

Methods:

Badge buddies were integrated for all GME trainees at a single institution, and surveys were conducted prior to and 5 months following implementation.

Results:

There were 932 pre- and 498 postimplementation respondents. Following implementation, both trainees and nurses reported improved awareness of GME training level, but there were no changes in patient/family perceptions.

Conclusions:

Badge buddies improved caregiver awareness of GME training level but did not impact patient/family perception. Patients appear to be focused primarily on relationships with caregivers and communication skills rather than a provider’s specific role.
Efficacy and safety of the switch of Triumeq® to generic (abacavir + lamivudine) + Tivicay®: data at 24 weeks
Authors: Olalla Julián , Pérez-Stachowski Javier , Tortajada Begoña , Del Arco Alfonso , Márquez Efrén , De la Torre Javier , Nieto Miriam , García de Lomas José María , Prada José Luis , García-Alegría Javier
Published: October 2018

Background

Generic drugs may help to support antiretroviral treatment. We want to assess the efficacy and safety at 24 weeks of the change of coformulated (abacavir + lamivudine + dolutegravir) to (abacavir + lamivudine) coformulated as a generic pharmaceutical specialty + dolutegravir.

Methods

Between February and June 2017, switch from Triumeq® to a generic pharmaceutical specialty co-formulated tablet (abacavir + lamivudine) plus Tivicay® was made. Demographic, viroimmunological characteristics and the Charlson index were collected. Six months after switching, efficacy and safety were evaluated.

Results

Switch was made in 93 patients, with a mean age of 47 years, after six months there were five patients (5.4%) with viral loads between 50 and 400 copies, no patient had viral loads of greater amount. There were 2 interruptions due to toxicity (2.15%), in relation to symptoms of the central nervous system. There were no differences in the amount of years with HAART, nor in the previous months with the STR regimen based on abacavir + lamivudine + dolutegravir, nor in the Charlson index. The effective saving in 2017 derived from the change in these 93 patients was € 125.512.

Conclusions

The change from a regimen of abacavir + lamivudine + dolutegravir seems to be safe and effective at 24 weeks.
The limited impact of acetic acid in archives and libraries
Authors: Ligterink Frank , Di Pietro Giovanna
Published: October 2018

For over two decades the exposure of paper heritage collections to outdoor and indoor generated gaseous pollutants has been perceived as an important threat to their preservation. Following explicit or implicit advise from conservation science, many archives, libraries and museums have implemented special chemical filtration units to prevent possible pollution induced damage. The most abundant, potentially harmful, indoor generated pollutant found in paper loaded storage rooms is acetic acid. Acids are known to promote the chemical degradation of cellulose, the major constituent of paper. These combined facts make clear why acetic acid has received much attention by conservation science as a prime suspect pollutant causing paper degradation. However, new experimental evidence contradicts the claim that acetic acid in typical storage situations causes significant damage to paper heritage. In this study a mathematical model is presented that expresses our understanding of the causal chain of processes connecting acetic acid exposure to paper damage. The model simply combines existing partial models describing (1) the transfer of acetic acid through air, (2) the pH response of paper and (3) the kinetics of acid-catalyzed hydrolytic depolymerization. The model makes apparent that the impact of acetic acid on archival and library collections is rather limited and poses an insignificant risk and as such requires a re-evaluation of existing data.
Psychological distress and psychiatric disorder after natural disasters: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Beaglehole Ben , Mulder Roger T. , Frampton Chris M. , Boden Joseph M. , Newton-Howes Giles , Bell Caroline J.
Published: October 2018

Background

Natural disasters are increasing in frequency and severity. They cause widespread hardship and are associated with detrimental effects on mental health.

Aims

Our aim is to provide the best estimate of the effects of natural disasters on mental health through a systematic review and meta-analysis of the rates of psychological distress and psychiatric disorder after natural disasters.

Method

This systematic review and meta-analysis is limited to studies that met predetermined quality criteria. We required included studies to make comparisons with pre-disaster or non-disaster exposed controls, and sample representative populations. Key studies were identified through a comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE and PsycINFO from 1980 to 3 March 2017. Random effects meta-analyses were performed for studies that reported key outcomes with appropriate statistics.

Results

Forty-one studies were identified by the literature search, of which 27 contributed to the meta-analyses. Continuous measures of psychological distress were increased after natural disasters (combined standardised mean difference 0.63, 95% CI 0.27–0.98, P = 0.005). Psychiatric disorders were also increased (combined odds ratio 1.84, 95% CI 1.43–2.38, P < 0.001). Rates of post-traumatic stress disorder and depression were significantly increased after disasters. Findings for anxiety and alcohol misuse/dependence were not significant. High rates of heterogeneity suggest that disaster-specific factors and, to a lesser degree, methodological factors contribute to the variance between studies.

Conclusions

Increased rates of psychological distress and psychiatric disorders follow natural disasters. High levels of heterogeneity between studies suggest that disaster variables and post-disaster response have the potential to mitigate adverse effects.

Declaration of interest

None.
Best Practices for Postoperative Brain Health
Authors: Berger Miles , Schenning Katie J. , Brown Charles H. , Deiner Stacie G. , Whittington Robert A. , Eckenhoff Roderic G.
Published: October 2018

As part of the American Society of Anesthesiology Brain Health Initiative goal of improving perioperative brain health for older patients, over 30 experts met at the fifth International Perioperative Neurotoxicity Workshop in San Francisco, CA, in May 2016, to discuss best practices for optimizing perioperative brain health in older adults (ie, >65 years of age). The objective of this workshop was to discuss and develop consensus solutions to improve patient management and outcomes and to discuss what older adults should be told (and by whom) about postoperative brain health risks. Thus, the workshop was provider and patient oriented as well as solution focused rather than etiology focused. For those areas in which we determined that there were limited evidence-based recommendations, we identified knowledge gaps and the types of scientific knowledge and investigations needed to direct future best practice. Because concerns about perioperative neurocognitive injury in pediatric patients are already being addressed by the SmartTots initiative, our workshop discussion (and thus this article) focuses specifically on perioperative cognition in older adults. The 2 main perioperative cognitive disorders that have been studied to date are postoperative delirium and cognitive dysfunction. Postoperative delirium is a syndrome of fluctuating changes in attention and level of consciousness that occurs in 20%–40% of patients >60 years of age after major surgery and inpatient hospitalization. Many older surgical patients also develop postoperative cognitive deficits that typically last for weeks to months, thus referred to as postoperative cognitive dysfunction. Because of the heterogeneity of different tools and thresholds used to assess and define these disorders at varying points in time after anesthesia and surgery, a recent article has proposed a new recommended nomenclature for these perioperative neurocognitive disorders. Our discussion about this topic was organized around 4 key issues: preprocedure consent, preoperative cognitive assessment, intraoperative management, and postoperative follow-up. These 4 issues also form the structure of this document. Multiple viewpoints were presented by participants and discussed at this in-person meeting, and the overall group consensus from these discussions was then drafted by a smaller writing group (the 6 primary authors of this article) into this manuscript. Of course, further studies have appeared since the workshop, which the writing group has incorporated where appropriate. All participants from this in-person meeting then had the opportunity to review, edit, and approve this final manuscript; 1 participant did not approve the final manuscript and asked for his/her name to be removed.
Basal constriction during midbrain-hindbrain boundary morphogenesis is mediated by Wnt5b and focal adhesion kinase
Authors: Gutzman Jennifer H. , Graeden Ellie , Brachmann Isabel , Yamazoe Sayumi , Chen James K. , Sive Hazel
Published: October 2018

Basal constriction occurs at the zebrafish midbrain-hindbrain boundary constriction (MHBC) and is likely a widespread morphogenetic mechanism. 3D reconstruction demonstrates that MHBC cells are wedge-shaped, and initially constrict basally, with subsequent apical expansion. wnt5b is expressed in the MHB and is required for basal constriction. Consistent with a requirement for this pathway, expression of dominant negative Gsk3β overcomes wnt5b knockdown. Immunostaining identifies focal adhesion kinase (Fak) as active in the MHB region, and knockdown demonstrates Fak is a regulator of basal constriction. Tissue specific knockdown further indicates that Fak functions cell autonomously within the MHBC. Fak acts downstream of wnt5b, suggesting that Wnt5b signals locally as an early step in basal constriction and acts together with more widespread Fak activation. This study delineates signaling pathways that regulate basal constriction during brain morphogenesis.
Model-based serial blood sampling protocol for minimal mortality and better recovery in small to medium sized tilapia
Authors: Sihoka Chris , Wagenaar Ina
Published: October 2018

Serial blood sampling involving sampling blood from the same individual at different time points is essential in time-based studies including xenobiotic toxicokinetics and biochemical studies. However, high fish mortality due to phlebotomy-induced anaemia (PIA) constrains serial blood sampling in small to medium sized fish. The aim of the study was to develop and implement a model-based serial blood sampling protocol that minimizes fish mortality by regulating anaemia within levels that sustain fish survival and recovery. A model simulating the reduction in haemoglobin was developed from blood sampling data of sixteen (N=16) medium sized Oreochromis mossambicus. The model was incorporated into a serial blood sampling protocol whose performance was tested on eight (N=8) fish. The protocol avoided fish mortality and the fish recovered from PIA within three weeks of the post-sampling period. Therefore, managing anaemia minimizes mortality and improves the applicability of serial blood sampling in small to medium sized fish.
Prepubertal skeletal muscle growth requires Pax7-expressing satellite cell-derived myonuclear contribution
Authors: Bachman John F. , Klose Alanna , Liu Wenxuan , Paris Nicole D. , Blanc Roméo S. , Schmalz Melissa , Knapp Emma , Chakkalakal Joe V.
Published: October 2018

The functional role of Pax7-expressing satellite cells (SCs) in postnatal skeletal muscle development beyond weaning remains obscure. Therefore, the relevance of SCs during prepubertal growth, a period after weaning but prior to the onset of puberty, has not been examined. Here, we have characterized mouse skeletal muscle growth during prepuberty and found significant increases in myofiber cross-sectional area that correlated with SC-derived myonuclear number. Remarkably, genome-wide RNA-sequencing analysis established that post-weaning juvenile and early adolescent skeletal muscle have markedly different gene expression signatures. These distinctions are consistent with extensive skeletal muscle maturation during this essential, albeit brief, developmental phase. Indelible labeling of SCs with Pax7CreERT2/+; Rosa26nTnG/+ mice demonstrated SC-derived myonuclear contribution during prepuberty, with a substantial reduction at puberty onset. Prepubertal depletion of SCs in Pax7CreERT2/+; Rosa26DTA/+ mice reduced myofiber size and myonuclear number, and caused force generation deficits to a similar extent in both fast and slow-contracting muscles. Collectively, these data demonstrate SC-derived myonuclear accretion as a cellular mechanism that contributes to prepubertal hypertrophic skeletal muscle growth.
ADAP is an upstream regulator that precedes SLP-76 at sites of TCR engagement and stabilizes signaling microclusters
Authors: Lewis Juliana B. , Scangarello Frank A. , Murphy Joanne M. , Eidell Keith P. , Sodipo Michelle O. , Ophir Michael J. , Sargeant Ryan , Seminario Maria-Cristina , Bunnell Stephen C.
Published: October 2018

Antigen recognition by the T cell receptor (TCR) directs the assembly of essential signaling complexes known as SLP-76 (also known as LCP2) microclusters. Here, we show that the interaction of the adhesion and degranulation-promoting adaptor protein (ADAP; also known as FYB1) with SLP-76 enables the formation of persistent microclusters and the stabilization of T cell contacts, promotes integrin-independent adhesion and enables the upregulation of CD69. By analyzing point mutants and using a novel phospho-specific antibody, we show that Y595 is essential for normal ADAP function, that virtually all tyrosine phosphorylation of ADAP is restricted to a Y595-phosphorylated (pY595) pool, and that multivalent interactions between the SLP-76 SH2 domain and its binding sites in ADAP are required to sustain ADAP phosphorylation. Although pY595 ADAP enters SLP-76 microclusters, non-phosphorylated ADAP is enriched in protrusive actin-rich structures. The pre-positioning of ADAP at the contact sites generated by these structures favors the retention of nascent SLP-76 oligomers and their assembly into persistent microclusters. Although ADAP is frequently depicted as an effector of SLP-76, our findings reveal that ADAP acts upstream of SLP-76 to convert labile, Ca2+-competent microclusters into stable adhesive junctions with enhanced signaling potential.
Latency for facultative expression of male-typical courtship behaviour by female bluehead wrasses depends on social rank: The ‘priming/gating’ hypothesis
Authors: Price Sarah M. , Luong Kyphuong , Bell Rickesha S. , Rose Gary J.
Published: October 2018

While socially-controlled sex transformation in fishes is well established, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Particularly enigmatic is behavioural transformation, in which fish can rapidly switch from exhibiting female to male-typical courtship behaviours following removal of ‘supermales’. Bluehead wrasses are a model system for investigating environmental control of sex determination, particularly the social control of sex transformation. Here we show that the onset of this behavioural transformation was delayed in females that occupied low-ranking positions in the female dominance hierarchy. We also establish that expression of male-typical courtship behaviours in competent ‘initial-phase’ (IP) females is facultative and gated by the presence of terminal-phase (TP) males. Dominant females displayed reliable TP male-typical courtship behaviours within approximately two days after the removal of a TP male; immediately following reintroduction of the TP male, however, females reverted back to female-typical behaviours. These results demonstrate a remarkable plasticity of sexual behaviour and support a ‘priming/gating’ hypothesis for the control of behavioural transformation in bluehead wrasses.
Facile Synthesis of π-Conjugated Polymers via Direct Arylation Polycondensation
Authors: Kuwabara Junpei , Kanbara Takaki
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we summarize recent developments made by our group in direct arylation polycondensation. The direct arylation method under optimal conditions affords a high-molecular-weight polymer with high purity through a simple purification process. The high-quality polymers have been used as active materials for optoelectronic applications and show equivalent or superior performance to the same polymers prepared by conventional methods. The development of facile synthetic protocols could increase their practical applications. Recent developments in C-H/C-H coupling polycondensation are also described.
Development of Electrochemical Applications of Boron-Doped Diamond Electrodes
Authors: Einaga Yasuaki
Published: October 2018

It is well known that “diamond” has ultra-high hardness and low electrical conductivity. However, introducing dopants such as boron into the diamond lattice during growth can increase its conductivity. Boron-doped diamond (BDD) with high conductivity is attracting increasing attention as one of the next-generation of superior electrode materials. In particular, it is expected that BDD electrodes can help solve some of our environmental problems and also improve our quality of life through their use in biomedical devices. Here, in this article, recent developments in the electrochemical applications of boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrodes are introduced.
Female Reproductive, Adrenal, and Metabolic Changes during an Antarctic Traverse
Authors: GIFFORD ROBERT M. , O’LEARY THOMAS , COBB RINN , BLACKADDER-WEINSTEIN JODIE , DOUBLE REBECCA , WARDLE SOPHIE L. , ANDERSON RICHARD A. , THAKE C. DOUG , HATTERSLEY JOHN , IMRAY CHRISTOPHER H. E. , WILSON ADRIAN , GREEVES JULIE P. , REYNOLDS REBECCA M. , WOODS DAVID R.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

To explore the effects of the first all-female transantarctic expedition on hormonal axes pertinent to reproductive and metabolic function.

Methods

Six females (age, 28–36 yr; body mass index, 24.2 ± 0.97 kg·m−2) hauled 80-kg sledges 1700 km in 61 d. Estimated average energy intake was 20.8 ± 0.1 MJ·d−1 (4970 ± 25 kcal·d−1). Whole and regional body composition was measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry 1 and 2 months before and 15 d after, the expedition. Body fat was also estimated by skinfold and bioimpedance immediately before and after the expedition. Basal metabolic and endocrine blood markers and, after 0.25 mg dexamethasone suppression, 1-h 10-μg gonadorelin and 1.0 μg adrenocortiocotrophin-(1–24) tests were completed, 39–38 d preexpedition and 4 to 5 d and 15 to 16 d postexpedition. Cortisol was assessed in hair (monthly average concentrations) and saliva (five-point day curves and two-point diurnal sampling).

Results

Average body mass loss was 9.37 ± 2.31 kg (P < 0.0001), comprising fat mass only; total lean mass was maintained. Basal sex steroids, corticosteroids, and metabolic markers were largely unaffected by the expedition except leptin, which decreased during the expedition and recovered after 15 d, a proportionately greater change than body fat. Luteinizing hormone reactivity was suppressed before and during the expedition, but recovered after 15 d, whereas follicle-stimulating hormone did not change during or after the expedition. Cortisol reactivity did not change during or after the expedition. Basal (suppressed) cortisol was 73.25 ± 45.23 mmol·L−1 before, 61.66 ± 33.11 mmol·L−1 5 d postexpedition and 54.43 ± 28.60 mmol·L−1 16 d postexpedition (P = 0.7). Hair cortisol was elevated during the expedition.

Conclusions

Maintenance of reproductive and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function in women after an extreme physical endeavor, despite energy deficiency, suggests high female biological capacity for extreme endurance exercise.
PROFESSOR MICHAEL KARANDINOS: Obituary
Authors: Fantinou Argyro , Saitanis Costas
Published: October 2018

no abstract available
Risk factors for diphtheria outbreak in children aged 1-10 years in East Kalimantan Province, Indonesia
Authors: Muhamad Ramdan Iwan , Susanti Rahmi , Ifroh Riza Hayati , Noviasty Reny
Published: October 2018

Background: Diphtheria remains a health problem, especially in developing countries. In November 2017, the Indonesian Ministry of Health stated that there was a diphtheria outbreak in Indonesia. East Kalimantan is one of the provinces that experienced this disease outbreak. This study analyzes the risk factors for diphtheria outbreak in children aged 1-10 years.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted on 37 respondents. Research variables consist of immunization status against diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus (DPT), nutritional status, children mobility, source of transmission, physical home environment (natural lighting, ventilation area, occupancy density, wall and floor type), knowledge of diphtheria and attitudes towards the diphtheria prevention program.

Results: We found that the most of the children who had diphtheria had been immunized against DPT. Additionally the nutritional status of children (p=0.049), mobility (p=0.000) and the source of transmission (p=0.020) were significantly associated with diphtheria.

Conclusions: Child/parent mobility (OR=8.456) is the main risk factor for diphtheria outbreak. It is recommended to limit the mobility of children to travel to areas that are experiencing increased cases of diphtheria, improve the nutritional status, and further research on the effectiveness of diphtheria vaccine.
Large-scale analysis of B-cell epitopes of envelope: Implications for Zika vaccine and immunotherapeutic development
Authors: Almansour Iman , Alfares Rahaf , Aljofi Halah
Published: October 2018

Background:Cases of the re-emergence of Zika virus in 2015 were associated with severe neurologic complications, including Gillien-Barre syndrome in adults and congenital Zika syndrome in newborns. The major structural determinant of immunity to the Zika virus is the E protein. Although B-cell epitopes of Zika E protein were recently identified, data regarding epitope variations among Zika strains in pre-epidemic and epidemic periods are lacking.

Methods:Here, we conducted systematic bioinformatics analyses of Zika strains isolated between 1968 and 2017. Multiple sequence alignment of E protein as well as B-cell epitopes annotations were performed. In addition, homology-based approach was utilized to construct three-dimensional structures of monomeric E glycoproteins to annotate epitope variations. Lastly, ofN-glycosylation patterns and prediction of protein stability upon mutations were also investigated.

Results:Our analyses indicates that epitopes recognized by human mAbs ZIKV-117, ZIKV-15, and ZIKV-119 were highly conserved, suggesting as attractive targets for the development of vaccines and immunotherapeutics directed against diverse Zika strains. In addition, the epitope recognized by ZIKV-E-2A10G6 mAb derived from immunized mice was highly conserved across Zika strains.

Conclusions:Our data provide new insights regarding antigenic similarities between Zika strains circulating worldwide. These data are essential for understanding the impact of evolution on antigenic cross-reactivity between Zika lineages and strains. Furtherin-vitroanalyses are needed to determine how mutations could impact the development of vaccines that can effectively neutralize Zika viruses.
Conceito de precipitação provável aplicado ao dimensionamento de reservatórios para aproveitamento de águas pluviais
Authors: Rodrigues Silva Kelly Milene , Rodrigues Silva André Vinícius , Thebaldi Michael Silveira , Gonzaga Iwata Letícia Cintra , Silva Lidiane Machado
Published: October 2018

Cada vez mais é evidente os problemas relacionados a crise hídrica, portanto há a necessidade de encontrar soluções para uso de água com menor qualidade para fins não potáveis, sendo o aproveitamento de águas pluviais relevante. Diante disso, o presente trabalho foi desenvolvido com o intuito de analisar de maneira técnica a aplicação da Precipitação Provável na obtenção do volume de reservatórios para armazenamento de águas pluviais em residências do município de Formiga - MG. Para tal, as precipitações prováveis mensais e anual, foram ajustadas seguindo a distribuição Gama, sendo então simulado o volume de reservatórios para armazenamento de águas pluviais, a partir de diferentes precipitações prováveis mensais e anuais e métodos de cálculo, apresentados pela NBR 15527, além da consideração de demandas por recurso hídrico não potável. Observou-se que o mês de julho é o que apresenta menor precipitação no município, não importando a probabilidade considerada para essa, enquanto que as maiores precipitações prováveis são obtidas em dezembro e janeiro. Em escala anual, a maior precipitação provável é de 1564,54 mm enquanto a menor, 935,19 mm. Segundo os resultados obtidos, a aplicação do conceito de precipitações prováveis é mais efetiva ao se usar os métodos de Rippl e Prático Australiano, por estes apresentarem maiores diferenças absolutas entre volumes de reservatório obtidos a partir das diferentes precipitações. Todavia os dois possuem comportamentos antagônicos quanto à consideração de maiores ou menores lâminas precipitadas
Role of vitamin D deficiency in type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic neuropathy development
Authors: Stepanova Anna P. , Karonova Tatiana L. , Bystrova Anna A. , Bregovsky Vadim B.
Published: October 2018

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global epidemic associated with severe vascular complications development. Diabetic neuropathy is the most common chronic complication of DM that worsens patients life quality and prognosis. Therefore, studies dealing with DM and diabetic neuropathy underlying mechanisms are extremely relevant. The review discusses current views on vitamin D role in glucose metabolism and inflammatory processes. It is reported that vitamin D deficiency can contribute to insulin resistance development, and change in vitamin D receptor activity or extra- and intracellular calcium concentration due to vitamin D deficiency can affect pancreatic -cells function and lead to decrease in insulin production. Key pathogenic mechanisms of diabetic neuropathy as well as possible relationship between vitamin D deficiency and neuropathy development are in focus of this review. Results of recent clinical trials regarding vitamin D supplementation in patients with DM are also discussed. The presented data suggest that vitamin D deficiency can be considered as a non-classical risk factor for the development of not only DM but its complications as well.