bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome profiling of sorted endoreduplicated nuclei from tomato fruits: how the global shift in expression ascribed to DNA ploidy influences RNA‐Seq data normalization and interpretation
Authors: Pirrello Julien , Deluche Cynthia , Frangne Nathalie , Gévaudant Frédéric , Maza Elie , Djari Anis , Bourge Mickaël , Renaudin Jean‐Pierre , Brown Spencer , Bowler Chris , Zouine Mohamed , Chevalier Christian , Gonzalez Nathalie
Published: November 2017

As part of normal development most eukaryotic organisms, ranging from insects and mammals to plants, display variations in nuclear ploidy levels resulting from somatic endopolyploidy. Endoreduplication is the major source of endopolyploidy in higher plants. Endoreduplication is a remarkable characteristic of the fleshy pericarp tissue of developing tomato fruits, where it establishes a highly integrated cellular system that acts as a morphogenetic factor supporting cell growth. However, the functional significance of endoreduplication is not fully understood. Although endoreduplication is thought to increase metabolic activity due to a global increase in transcription, the issue of gene‐specific ploidy‐regulated transcription remains open. To investigate the influence of endoreduplication on transcription in tomato fruit, we tested the feasibility of a RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) approach using total nuclear RNA extracted from purified populations of flow cytometry‐sorted nuclei based on their DNA content. Here we show that cell‐based approaches to the study of RNA‐Seq profiles need to take into account the putative global shift in expression between samples for correct analysis and interpretation of the data. From ploidy‐specific expression profiles we found that the activity of cells inside the pericarp is related both to the ploidy level and their tissue location.
Sequential gene activation and gene imprinting during early embryo development in maize
Authors: Meng Dexuan , Zhao Jianyu , Zhao Cheng , Luo Haishan , Xie Mujiao , Liu Renyi , Lai Jinsheng , Zhang Xiaolan , Jin Weiwei
Published: November 2017

Gene imprinting is a widely observed epigenetic phenomenon in maize endosperm; however, whether it also occurs in the maize embryo remains controversial. Here, we used high‐throughput RNA sequencing on laser capture microdissected and manually dissected maize embryos from reciprocal crosses between inbred lines B73 and Mo17 at six time points (3–13 days after pollination, DAP) to analyze allelic gene expression patterns. Co‐expression analysis revealed sequential gene activation during maize embryo development. Gene imprinting was observed in maize embryos, and a greater number of imprinted genes were identified at early embryo stages. Sixty‐four strongly imprinted genes were identified (at the threshold of 9:1) on manually dissected embryos 5–13 DAP (more imprinted genes at 5 DAP). Forty‐one strongly imprinted genes were identified from laser capture microdissected embryos at 3 and 5 DAP (more imprinted genes at 3 DAP). Furthermore, of the 56 genes that were completely imprinted (at the threshold of 99:1), 36 were not previously identified as imprinted genes in endosperm or embryos. In situ hybridization demonstrated that most of the imprinted genes were expressed abundantly in maize embryonic tissue. Our results shed lights on early maize embryo development and provide evidence to support that gene imprinting occurs in maize embryos.
High‐throughput sequencing of the chloroplast and mitochondrion of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to generate improved de novo assemblies, analyze expression patterns and transcript speciation, and evaluate diversity among laboratory strains and wild isolates
Authors: Gallaher Sean D. , Fitz‐Gibbon Sorel T. , Strenkert Daniela , Purvine Samuel O. , Pellegrini Matteo , Merchant Sabeeha S.
Published: November 2017

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is a unicellular chlorophyte alga that is widely studied as a reference organism for understanding photosynthesis, sensory and motile cilia, and for development of an algal‐based platform for producing biofuels and bio‐products. Its highly repetitive, ~205‐kbp circular chloroplast genome and ~15.8‐kbp linear mitochondrial genome were sequenced prior to the advent of high‐throughput sequencing technologies. Here, high coverage shotgun sequencing was used to assemble both organellar genomes de novo. These new genomes correct dozens of errors in the prior genome sequences and annotations. Genome sequencing coverage indicates that each cell contains on average 83 copies of the chloroplast genome and 130 copies of the mitochondrial genome. Using protocols and analyses optimized for organellar transcripts, RNA‐Seq was used to quantify their relative abundances across 12 different growth conditions. Forty‐six percent of total cellular mRNA is attributable to high expression from a few dozen chloroplast genes. RNA‐Seq data were used to guide gene annotation, to demonstrate polycistronic gene expression, and to quantify splicing of psaA and psbA introns. In contrast to a conclusion from a recent study, we found that chloroplast transcripts are not edited. Unexpectedly, cytosine‐rich polynucleotide tails were observed at the 3’‐end of all mitochondrial transcripts. A comparative genomics analysis of eight laboratory strains and 11 wild isolates of C. reinhardtii identified 2658 variants in the organellar genomes, which is 1/10th as much genetic diversity as is found in the nucleus.
The influence of inflammation and hematocrit on clot strength in canine thromboelastographic hypercoagulability
Authors: Marschner Clara B. , Wiinberg Bo , Tarnow Inge , Markussen Bo , Kühnel Line , Bochsen Louise , Kristensen Annemarie T.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To investigate parameters causing canine thromboelastographic hypercoagulability and to investigate whether thromboelastography (TEG) with Cytochalasin D (Cyt D) added is related to parameters of platelet activity.

Design

Prospective observational study on hemostatic and inflammatory parameters. Data were collected between November 2012 and July 2013.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Twenty‐eight dogs suffering from diseases predisposing to thrombosis and 19 clinically healthy dogs. Diseased dogs were enrolled if they fulfilled inclusion criteria regarding age, size, informed client consent, and obtained a diagnosis of a disease that has been associated with thrombosis or hypercoagulability.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

Parameters of coagulation and anticoagulation, fibrinolysis, and antifibrinolysis, platelet activity, inflammation, platelet count, and hematocrit were measured using CBC, TEG, platelet aggregation on multiplate, platelet activity on flow cytometry, and hemostatic and inflammatory markers on plasma and serum analyses. ANOVA and multilinear regression analyses indicated that especially hematocrit and the inflammatory parameters C‐reactive protein and interleukin‐8 showed best association with overall clot strength in diseased dogs with hypercoagulable TEG tracings. Ratios presumed to reflect platelet contribution to the TEG tracing obtained in TEG analyses with Cyt D were related especially with hematocrit and P‐selectin expression of platelets measured after γ‐Thrombin activation on flow cytometry.

Conclusion

Overall clot strength in TEG analyses of the hypercoagulable dogs included in the present study appears to be primarily associated with inflammation as well as hematocrit. Furthermore, the ratio between standard TEG analyses and TEG analyses with Cyt D may reflect some degree of platelet activity.
Transpalpebral ultrasonographic measurement of the optic nerve sheath diameter in healthy dogs
Authors: Smith Joshua J. , Fletcher Daniel J. , Cooley Stacy D. , Thompson Margret S.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To develop a reference range for ultrasonographically measured optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD‐US) in dogs. We hypothesized that ONSD‐US can be measured reliably and is associated with weight but not age, sex, or body condition score (BCS), and that the relationship between weight and ONSD‐US in dogs is allometric due to canine size variations.

Design

Prospective, observational study.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Seventy‐eight healthy adult dogs.

Interventions

The ONSD was measured by a standardized transpalpebral approach.

Measurements and Main Results

Regression analysis showed the relationship between weight and ONSD was better fit with a linear model (R2 = 0.8510) than an allometric model (R2 = 0.7917). Multiple regression analysis showed ONSD is associated with weight (P < 0.0001), age (P = 0.0021), and BCS (P = 0.0007), but not with sex. Dominance analysis showed 94.6% of the variance explained by the model was due to weight. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis showed excellent interobserver (ICC = 0.9338–0.9608) and intraobserver (ICC = 0.9893) reliability.

Conclusions

These results suggest that ONSD‐US may be reliably measured in dogs using our described transpalpebral approach, and we have calculated prediction intervals based on body weight. Future studies are needed to determine if ONSD‐US measurements are associated with intracranial hypertension as shown in human medicine.
Examination of the Burnout Levels of Basketball Players in Terms of Gender, Age and Experience
Authors: Toros Turhan , Dereceli Çağatay , Barut Ali İlhan
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this study is to examine the burnout levels of basketball players in terms of gender, age and experience. A total of 270 (124 female and 146 male) basketball players (age mean x = 23.07 ± 1.28 years) participated in the study. Maslach’s Burnout Inventory was developed by Maslach and Jackson (1981) and adapted to Turkish by Ergin (1992) was used to measure the burnout levels of basketball players for collecting data. The data were analyzed with SPSS program. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient was calculated to test the internal consistency of the scale. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for paired group comparisons. The Kruskal Wallis H test was used for the multiple group comparisons. When Mann Whitney U test results were examined, Emotional Exhaustion (p = .063, p> .05), Depersonalization (p = .498, p> .05) and Personal Accomplishment (p = .599, p> .05), there was no significant difference between male and female basketball players according to gender. According to Kruskall Wallis H test results, the variables of emotional exhaustion (p = .162, p> .05), Depersonalization (p=.319, p>.05) and Personal Accomplishment (p = .284, p> .05) no significant difference was observed. According to Kruskall Wallis H test results, there was no significant difference in Personal Accomplishment (p = .674, p> .05) sub-dimensions according to experience variable. However, significant differences were found in the subscales of Emotional Exhaustion (p = .002, p <.05) and Depersonalization (p = .033, p <.05) compared to the experience variable. As a result, the level of burnout is important for the experience of basketball players.
Two patients with MIRAGE syndrome lacking haematological features: role of somatic second-site reversion SAMD9 mutations
Authors: Shima Hirohito , Koehler Katrin , Nomura Yumiko , Sugimoto Kazuhiko , Satoh Akira , Ogata Tsutomu , Fukami Maki , Jühlen Ramona , Schuelke Markus , Mohnike Klaus , Huebner Angela , Narumi Satoshi
Published: November 2017

Background

Myelodysplasia, infection, restriction of growth, adrenal hypoplasia, genital phenotypes and enteropathy (MIRAGE) syndrome is a recently described congenital disorder caused by heterozygous SAMD9 mutations. The phenotypic spectrum of the syndrome remains to be elucidated.

Methods and results

We describe two unrelated patients who showed manifestations compatible with MIRAGE syndrome, with the exception of haematological features. Leucocyte genomic DNA samples were analysed with next-generation sequencing and Sanger sequencing, revealing the patients to have two de novoSAMD9 mutations on the same allele (patient 1 p.[Gln695*; Ala722Glu] and patient 2 p.[Gln39*; Asp769Gly]). In patient 1, p.Gln695* was absent in genomic DNA extracted from hair follicles, implying that the non-sense mutation was acquired somatically. In patient 2, with the 46,XX karyotype, skewed X chromosome inactivation pattern was found in leucocyte DNA, suggesting monoclonality of cells in the haematopoietic system. In vitro expression experiments confirmed the growth-restricting capacity of the two missense mutant SAMD9 proteins that is a characteristic of MIRAGE-associated SAMD9 mutations.

Conclusions

Acquisition of a somatic nonsense SAMD9 mutation in the cells of the haematopoietic system might revert the cellular growth repression caused by the germline SAMD9 mutations (ie, second-site reversion mutations). Unexpected lack of haematological features in the two patients would be explained by the reversion mutations.
Oral corticosteroid dosing regimen and long-term prognosis in generalised myasthenia gravis: a multicentre cross-sectional study in Japan
Authors: Imai Tomihiro , Utsugisawa Kimiaki , Murai Hiroyuki , Tsuda Emiko , Nagane Yuriko , Suzuki Yasushi , Minami Naoya , Uzawa Akiyuki , Kawaguchi Naoki , Masuda Masayuki , Konno Shingo , Suzuki Hidekazu , Akaishi Tetsuya , Aoki Masashi
Published: November 2017

Objective

We examined the correlation between the dosing regimen of oral prednisolone (PSL) and the achievement of minimal manifestation status or better on PSL ≤5 mg/day lasting >6 months (the treatment target) in patients with generalised myasthenia gravis (MG).

Methods

We classified 590 patients with generalised MG into high-dose (n=237), intermediate-dose (n=187) and low-dose (n=166) groups based on the oral PSL dosing regimen, and compared the clinical characteristics, previous treatments other than PSL and prognosis between three groups. The effect of oral PSL dosing regimen on the achievement of the treatment target was followed for 3 years of treatment.

Results

To achieve the treatment target, ORs for low-dose versus high-dose regimen were 10.4 (P<0.0001) after 1 year of treatment, 2.75 (P=0.007) after 2 years and 1.86 (P=0.15) after 3 years; and those for low-dose versus intermediate-dose regimen were 13.4 (P<0.0001) after 1 year, 3.99 (P=0.0003) after 2 years and 4.92 (P=0.0004) after 3 years. Early combined use of fast-acting treatment (OR: 2.19 after 2 years, P=0.02; OR: 2.11 after 3 years, P=0.04) or calcineurin inhibitors (OR: 2.09 after 2 years, P=0.03; OR: 2.36 after 3 years, P=0.02) was associated positively with achievement of treatment target.

Conclusion

A low-dose PSL regimen with early combination of other treatment options may ensure earlier achievement of the treatment target in generalised MG.
Prevalence of occupational exposure to asthmagens derived from animals, fish and/or shellfish among Australian workers
Authors: El-Zaemey Sonia , Carey Renee N , Darcey Ellie , Reid Alison , Glass Deborah Catherine , Benke Geza P , Driscoll Tim R , Peters Susan , Si Si , Abramson Michael J , Fritschi Lin
Published: November 2017

Objective

Several animal, fish and/or shellfish derived substances encountered in the workplace can initiate or exacerbate asthma. The aims of this study were: to produce a population-based estimate of the current prevalence of occupational exposure to animal, fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens, to identify the main circumstances of exposures and to identify occupations with the highest proportions of exposed respondents.

Methods

We used data from the Australian Work Exposure Study-Asthma, a national telephone survey that investigated the current prevalence of occupational exposure to asthmagens among Australian workers. A web-based tool was used to collect job task information and assign exposure to asthmagens, including animal, fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens. Prevalence ratios to determine risk factors for exposure were estimated using modified Poisson regression.

Results

Of the 4878 respondents, 12.4% were exposed to asthmagens derived from animals, fish and/or shellfish. Exposure to these asthmagens was significantly higher in workers residing in regional and remote areas, compared with major cities. The main circumstance of exposure to animal derived asthmagens was through cleaning up rat/mice infestations, while the main circumstance of exposure to fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens was through preparing and cooking salmon. Occupational groups with the highest proportion of exposure to animal or fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens were farmers/animal workers and food workers, respectively.

Conclusions

This is the first study investigating occupational exposure to animal, fish and/or shellfish derived asthmagens in a nationwide working population. The results of this study can be used to inform the direction of occupational interventions and policies to reduce work-related asthma.
3-(Bromomethyl)-2-chloro-4-(methylsulfonyl)- benzoic acid: a new cause of sensitiser induced occupational asthma, rhinitis and urticaria
Authors: Suojalehto Hille , Karvala Kirsi , Ahonen Saana , Ylinen Katriina , Airaksinen Liisa , Suuronen Katri , Suomela Sari , Lindström Irmeli
Published: November 2017

Objectives

3-(Bromomethyl)−2-chloro-4-(methylsulfonyl)-benzoic acid (BCMBA) has not previously been identified as a respiratory sensitiser. We detected two cases who presented respiratory and urticaria symptoms related to BCMBA and had positive skin prick tests to the agent. Subsequently, we conducted outbreak investigations at the BCMBA-producing factory and performed clinical examinations to confirm occupational diseases.

Methods

The outbreak investigations included observations of work processes, assessment of exposure, a medical survey with a questionnaire and skin prick tests with 0.5% BCMBA water solution on 85 exposed workers and 9 unexposed workers. We used specific inhalation or nasal challenge and open skin application test to investigate BCMBA-related occupational asthma, rhinitis and contact urticaria.

Results

We identified nine workers with respiratory and/or skin symptoms and positive skin prick tests to BCMBA in a chemical factory. A survey among chemical factory workers indicated a BCMBA-related sensitisation rate of 8% among all exposed workers; the rate was highest (25%) among production workers in the production hall. Sensitisation was detected only in workers with the estimated highest exposure levels. Six cases of occupational asthma, rhinitis and/or contact urticaria caused by BCMBA were confirmed with challenge tests. Asthma-provoking doses in specific inhalation challenges were very low (0.03% or 0.3% BCMBA in lactose).

Conclusions

We identified a new low molecular weight agent causing occupational asthma, rhinitis and contact urticaria. A typical clinical picture of allergic diseases and positive skin prick tests suggest underlying IgE-mediated disease mechanisms. Stringent exposure control measures are needed in order to prevent BCMBA-related diseases.
Richard Watson
Authors: Wright Ian , Bevin William
Published: November 2017

An inspirational equine veterinary surgeon with a keen interest in racing, to whom horses were a way of life. He took much pride in the success of his homebred racehorses.
Neural adaptations in quadriceps muscle after 4 weeks of local vibration training in young versus older subjects
Authors: Souron Robin , Besson Thibault , Lapole Thomas , Millet Guillaume Y.
Published: November 2017

This study investigated the effects of a 4-week local vibration training (LVT) on the function of the knee extensors and corticospinal properties in healthy young and older subjects. Seventeen subjects (9 young and 8 older) performed 3 testing sessions: before (PRE1) and after (PRE2) a 4-week resting period to control the repeatability of the data as well as after the LVT (POST). Jump performance, maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and electromyographic (EMG) activity on vastus lateralis and rectus femoris muscles were assessed. Single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) allowed evaluation of cortical voluntary activation (VATMS), motor evoked potential (MEP) area, and silent period (SP) duration. All training adaptations were similar between young and older subjects (p > 0.05) and the following results reflect the pooled sample of subjects. MVC (+11.9% ± 8.0%, p < 0.001) and VATMS(+3.6% ± 5.2%, p = 0.004) were significantly increased at POST compared with PRE2. Maximal vastus lateralis EMG was significantly increased at POST (+21.9% ± 33.7%, p = 0.03). No changes were reported for MEPs on both muscles (p > 0.05). SPs recorded during maximal and submaximal contractions decreased in both muscles at POST (p < 0.05). Vertical jump performance was increased at POST (p < 0.05). LVT seems as effective in young as in older subjects to improve maximal functional capacities through neural modulations occurring at least partly at the supra-spinal level. Local vibration may be used as an efficient alternative training method to improve muscular performance in both healthy young and older subjects.
Existentially closed fields with finite group actions
Authors: Hoffmann Daniel M. , Kowalski Piotr
Published: November 2017

We study algebraic and model-theoretic properties of existentially closed fields with an action of a fixed finite group. Such fields turn out to be pseudo-algebraically closed in a rather strong sense. We place this work in a more general context of the model theory of fields with a (finite) group scheme action.
Modular coloring of the Cartesian products Km□Kn, Km□Cn, and Km□Pn
Authors: Rajarajachozhan R. , Sampathkumar R.
Published: November 2017

A modular [Formula: see text]-coloring, [Formula: see text] of a graph [Formula: see text] is a coloring of the vertices of [Formula: see text] with the elements in [Formula: see text] the set of integers modulo [Formula: see text] having the property that for every two adjacent vertices of [Formula: see text] the sums of the colors of their neighbors are different in [Formula: see text] The minimum [Formula: see text] for which [Formula: see text] has a modular [Formula: see text]-coloring is the modular chromatic number of [Formula: see text] This paper is concerned with the modular chromatic number of the Cartesian products [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]
The thermal structure of volcanic passive margins
Authors: Armitage John J. , Collier Jenny S.
Published: November 2017

Over the past ten years we have numerically modelled the properties of the magmatism generated at four of the key areas where the ‘mantle plume–volcanic margin hypothesis’ is expected to be valid: the North Atlantic, South Atlantic, India–Seychelles and Afar. Our model incorporates many of the original assumptions in the classic White and McKenzie model, with pure shear of the lithospheric mantle, passive upwelling and decompressional melting. Our model is however two- rather than one-dimensional, can capture the rift history (extension rate changes and axis jumps) and tracks mantle depletion during melting. In all four of our study areas we require the sub-lithospheric mantle to be 100 – 200°C hotter than ‘normal’, non-volcanic margins to explain the characteristics of the magmatism. In the three passive margin cases we find this excess temperature is limited to a 50 – 100 km thick layer. We require this layer temperature to drop along-strike away from the proposed sites of plume impact at the base of the lithosphere. However, we also find that lithospheric thickness and rift history are as important as temperature for controlling the magmatism. Our work therefore lends support to the hypothesis that the excess magmatism at volcanic margins is due to a thermal anomaly in the asthenosphere, albeit with consideration of extra parameters.

Supplementary material:
Numerical model description is available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.3924505
Basement–cover reservoir analogue in rift-margin fault blocks; Gulf of Suez Rift, Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Braathen A. , Abdel Fattah M. M. , Olaussen S. , Abdel-Gawad G. , Ogata K.
Published: November 2017

Faults, fracture systems, weathering profiles and cover sediments of granitic basement in the rift shoulder of the Gulf of Suez Rift (Sinai, Egypt) are useful conceptual analogues for basement–cover reservoir fields. Outcrops demonstrate that fracture intensity peaks adjacent to major faults, and declines in damage zones that stretch to the background fracturing level over distances of 150 m. In the rift shoulder, smaller faults have damage zones that are 30 – 40 m wide with 1 – 5 m-wide fracture corridors. Faults show chemical alteration extending hundreds of metres into basement, with characteristics similar to saprolite in schists, mafic rocks and granitoids. Cover sandstones fill and drape top-basement relief, as recorded by metre-thick basal fluvial coarse sandstones, hosting kaolinite both as diagenetic pore fill and clastic grains. Overlying floodplain to marginal-marine deposits consist of mature quartz arenites.

Strategies for production of hydrocarbons or groundwater from basement–cover reservoir couplets should consider a layered system with: (i) deep tight basement of minimal porosity (
c.
1%) hosting producible fractures and faults in a plumbed system with potential thief zones; (ii) top-basement weathering profiles capping granitoids representing a volumetrically considerable reservoir; and (iii) draping cover sandstones showing good reservoir properties, and representing the most homogenous unit. Diagenetic modifications of saprolite, fault rocks and fractures potentially baffle recharge between layers.
E3 Ubiquitin Ligase RNF125 Activates Interleukin-36 Receptor Signaling and Contributes to Its Turnover
Authors: Saha Siddhartha S. , Caviness Gary , Yi Guanghui , Raymond Ernest L. , Mbow M. Lamine , Kao C. Cheng
Published: November 2017

Signaling by the interleukin-36 receptor (IL-36R) is linked to inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis. However, the regulation of IL-36R signaling is poorly understood. Activation of IL-36R signaling in cultured cells results in an increased polyubiquitination of the receptor subunit, IL-1Rrp2. Treatment with deubiquitinases shows that the receptor subunit of IL-36R, IL-1Rrp2, is primarily polyubiquitinated at the K63 position, which is associated with endocytic trafficking and signal transduction. A minor amount of ubiquitination is at the K48 position that is associated with protein degradation. A focused siRNA screen identified RNF125, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, to ubiquitinate IL-1Rrp2 upon activation of IL-36R signaling while not affecting the activated IL-1 receptor. Knockdown of RNF125 decreases signal transduction by the IL-36R. Overexpression of RNF125 in HEK293T cells activates IL-36R signaling and increases the ubiquitination of IL-1Rrp2 and its subsequent turnover. RNF125 can coimmunoprecipitate with the IL-36R, and it traffics with IL-1Rrp2 from the cell surface to lysosomes. Mutations of Lys568 and Lys569 in the C-terminal tail of IL-1Rrp2 decrease ubiquitination by RNF125 and increase the steady-state levels of IL-1Rrp2. These results demonstrate that RNF125 has multiple regulatory roles in the signaling, trafficking, and turnover of the IL-36R.
Carotid Artery Stenosis Contralateral to Acute Tandem Occlusion: An Independent Predictor of Poor Clinical Outcome after Mechanical Thrombectomy with Concomitant Carotid Artery Stenting
Authors: Maus Volker , Behme Daniel , Borggrefe Jan , Kabbasch Christoph , Seker Fatih , Hüseyin Cicek , Barnikol Utako Birgit , Yeo Leonard Leong Litt , Brouwer Patrick , Söderman Michael , Möhlenbruch Markus  , Psychogios Marios Nikos , Liebig Thomas , Dohmen Christian , Fink Gereon Rudolf , Mpotsaris Anastasios
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose: Cerebral ischemic strokes due to extra-/intracranial tandem occlusions (TO) of the anterior circulation are responsible for causing mechanical thrombectomy (MT). The impact of concomitant contralateral carotid stenosis (CCS) upon outcome remains unclear in this stroke subtype. Methods: Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of 4 international stroke centers between 2011 and 2017. One hundred ninety-seven consecutive patients with anterior TO were treated with MT and acute carotid artery stenting (CAS). Clinical (including demographics and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS]), imaging (including angiographic evaluation of CCS) and procedural data were evaluated. Favorable clinical outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) ≤2 at 90 days. Results: In 186 out of 197 TO patients preinterventional CT angiography was available for analysis, thereof 49 patients (26%) presented with CCS. Median admission NIHSS and procedural timings did not differ between groups. Reperfusion was successful in 38 out of 49 patients (78%) vs. 113 out of 148 patients (76%) without CCS. In stark contrast, rate of favorable outcome at 90 days differed significantly between groups (22 vs. 44%; p < 0.05). The presence of CCS in TO was associated with an unfavorable clinical outcome independent of age and NIHSS in multivariate logistic regression (p < 0.05). Final infarct volume was significantly larger in CCS patients (100 ± 127 vs. 63 ± 77 cm3; p < 0.05). Neither all-cause mortality rates (25 vs. 17%) nor frequency of peri-interventional symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage differed between groups (7 vs. 6%). Conclusion: For patients with anterior TO undergoing MT with concomitant CAS the presence of CCS >50% is an independent predictor of poor clinical outcome. This most likely cause is due to poorer collateral flow to the affected tissue.
MiR-148b, MiR-152/ALCAM Axis Regulates the Proliferation and Invasion of Pituitary Adenomas Cells
Authors: He Wei , Huang Ling , Li Min , Yang Yue , Chen Zhen , Shen Xiaoli
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: Aberrant expression of miRNA has been found in many tumor tissues to regulate the tumorigenesis by binding to the 3`- untranslated region (3`-UTR) of the target genes. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of miR-148b, miR-152/ALCAM axis in human pituitary adenomas (PAs). Methods: First, we detected the expression level of miR-148b-3p and miR-152 in human PAs samples by using qRT-PCR. Then we studied the role of miR-148b-3p, miR-152 on human PAs cell proliferation, invasion and apoptosis by using MTS assay, Transwell invasion assay and Annexin V/PI Staining Test. To study the relationship between miR-148b-3p, miR-152 and activated leukocyte antigen molecule (ALCAM), we overexpressed miR-148-3p or miR-152 by transfecting specific mimics. Lucifearase reporter assay was then performed to confirm the target. Next, we studied the biological functions of ALCAM in human PAs cells. Finally, the role of miR-148b-3p, miR-152/ALCAM axis in PAs cells was studied. Results: The expression level of miR-148-3p and miR-152 in invasive PAs samples was lower than those in noninvasive samples. Overexpression of miR-148b-3p, miR-152 could repress proliferation and invasion, and promote apoptosis. Moreover, miR-148b-3p and miR-152 could repress activated leukocyte antigen molecule (ALCAM) expression. Knockdown of ALCAM could repress proliferation and invasion and promote apoptosis. By contrary, overexpression of ALCAM promoted proliferation and invasion. Further, the rescue experiments indicated that overexpression of ALCAM significantly restored the proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion influenced by miR-148b-3p and miR-152. Conclusions: Our study suggests that miR-148b-3p, miR-152 may serve as suppressors in PAs through downregulating ALCAM expression. miR-148b, miR-152/ ALCAM axis may be a new therapeutic target in the future.
Cardiomyopathy-Associated Gene 1-Sensitive PKC-Dependent Connexin 43 Expression and Phosphorylation in Left Ventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Xie Yuanyuan , Liu Shenghua , Hu Shengshou , Wei Yingjie
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: Cardiomyopathy-associated gene 1 (CMYA1) plays an important role in embryonic cardiac development, postnatal cardiac remodeling and myocardial injury repair. Abnormal CMYA1 expression may be involved in cardiac dysplasia and primary cardiomyopathy. Our study aims to establish the relationship between CMYA1 and Left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC) pathogenesis. Methods: We explored the effects of CMYA1 on connexins (Cx), which contribute to gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC), and the underlying signaling pathway in human normal tissues, LVNC myocardial tissues and HL1 cells by means of western blotting, RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, co-immunoprecipitation and scrape loading-dye transfer. Results: CMYA1 expression was inversely associated with Cx43 and Cx40 expression, as determined by gap junction PCR array analysis. An increased expression and disordered distribution of CMYA1 at the intercalated discs in LVNC myocardial tissue was also observed. CMYA1 and Cx43 are co-expressed and interact in myocardial cells. CMYA1 expression was positively correlated with p-Cx43 (S368) via the Protein kinase C (PKC) signaling pathway in myocardial tissue and HL1 cells. The diffusion distance of Lucifer Yellow in the HL1 cells in which CMYA1 was over-expressed or knocked down was significantly less or more than that of the control group, respectively. Conclusion: Abnormal CMYA1 expression affects the expression and phosphorylation of Cx43 through the PKC signaling pathway, which is involved in the regulation of GJIC. CMYA1 participates in the molecular mechanism of LVNC pathogenesis.
Downregulated MicroRNA-195 in the Bicuspid Aortic Valve Promotes Calcification of Valve Interstitial Cells via Targeting SMAD7
Authors: Du Junjie , Zheng Rui , Xiao Feng , Zhang Shuai , He Keshuai , Zhang Junjie , Shao Yongfeng
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: Aortic stenosis caused by leaflet calcification in the bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is more accelerative than that in the tricuspid aortic valve (TAV). MicroRNA-195 (miR-195) is downregulated more in stenotic than in insufficient BAVs, but its expression in BAVs compared with TAVs is unclear. We aimed to investigate the roles of miR-195 and its calcification-related target SMAD7 in stenotic BAVs compared with those in TAVs. Methods: Twenty-one stenotic BAV and 29 TAV samples were collected from surgical patients and examined for the expression of miR-195 and SMAD7 by RT-PCR. The samples were also assessed by western blotting and immunohistochemistry for the functional protein alteration associated with calcification. Dual-luciferase assay was performed to determine the putative target of miR-195 before the effects of miR-195 expression on osteogenic progression was demonstrated in cultured porcine valve interstitial cells (VICs). Results: Compared with TAV, the expression of miR-195 was remarkably lower in the BAV leaflet with higher expression of SMAD7, which was then validated as a direct target of miR-195. Their negative correlation was then confirmed in cultured VICs. Under an osteogenic environment, the cellular calcification was promoted in miR-195-repressed VICs expressing higher BMP-2 and Runx2 and higher activity of MMP-2 compared with the controls. Finally, higher MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression and more collagen distribution were observed in BAV than TAV samples. Conclusions: miR-195 is downregulated more in stenotic BAV than TAV in this study. The downregulation of miR-195 is associated with valvular calcification via targeting SMAD7, which promotes the remodeling of the extracellular matrix.
A novel association of BoLA DRB3 alleles in BLV infected cattle with different proviral loads
Authors: Farias María Victoria Nieto , Caffaro María Eugenia , Lendez Pamela Anahí , Passucci Juan , Poli Mario , Ceriani María Carolina , Dolcini Guillermina Laura
Published: November 2017

O vírus da leucemia bovina (BLV) está associado à doença neoplásica mais comum do gado bovino. O BLV tem uma disseminação silenciosa no rebanho devido à troca de células infectadas, assim, a concentração de células BLV infectadas no sangue deve desempenhar um papel importante no sucesso da transmissão viral. Os genes do antígeno leucocitário bovino (BoLA), sistema MHC do gado bovino, estão associados à resistência genética e à susceptibilidade a uma ampla gama de doenças, bem como às características da produção. Alguns polimorfismos de alelos de BoLA DRB3.2 em bovinos Holstein têm sido associados à resistência ou susceptibilidade ao desenvolvimento da doença BLV, ou com carga proviral (PVL). Esta investigação avaliou 107 vacas leiteiras da raça Holstein argentina infectadas com BLV e pertencentes a um único rebanho. A PVL foi analisada por qPCR, os animais foram classificados em alta carga proviral (HPVL, N = 88) e baixa carga proviral (LPVL, N = 19), e os alelos BoLA DRB3.2 foram genotipados. Os alelos BoLA DRB3.2*1501 e *1201 estavam significativamente relacionados à HPVL (p = 0,0230 e p = 0,0111, respectivamente), enquanto o alelo BoLA DRB3.2*0201, à LPVL (p = 0,0030). O objetivo deste estudo é contribuir para o conhecimento da associação entre o polimorfismo de BoLA e o desenvolvimento de infecção por BLV. Os genes que melhor explicam a PVL na população analisada resultaram em BoLA DRB3.2*0201 (como fator de proteção) e *1501 (como fator de risco). As diferenças alélicas podem desempenhar um papel importante no desenvolvimento de respostas imunitárias eficazes. Uma melhor compreensão de como o polimorfismo BoLA contribui para estas respostas e o estabelecimento de um estado BLV é desejável para agendar e avaliar as medidas de controle.
Assessment of different in vitro sperm challenges and in vivo fertility of bovine semen batches
Authors: Oliveira Letícia Zoccolaro , Ribeiro Lucas Bernardes , Silva Luiz Gustavo Teodoro da , Oliveira Clara Slade , Dias Erika Aline Ribeiro , Campanholi Suzane Peres , Campos Carla Cristian , Oliveira Maiana Visoná de , Monteiro Fabio Morato
Published: November 2017

O objetivo deste estudo foi estressar células espermáticas em diferentes desafios laboratoriais e comparar os resultados in vitro com a fertilidade in vivo do sêmen. Quatro partidas de um mesmo touro Brangus foram utilizadas em um programa de IATF de 332 vacas Brangus. Cada partida foi submetida ao seguinte procedimento: a amostra de sêmen foi descongelada a 36°C por 30 segundos (grupo controle). Foram avaliados parâmetros de motilidade espermática (CASA), integridade da membrana plasmática (PMI), morfologia e concentração espermática. Em seguida, uma alíquota da amostra descongelada foi incubada em banho-maria a 45°C durante 40 minutos (grupo de desafio térmico, TCG) e outra alíquota foi centrifugada a 500 xg (gradiente de Percoll 45%/90%) durante 15 min (grupo desafio de centrifugação, CCG). Uma aliquota do sêmen centrifugado foi ainda submetida ao desafio térmico, sendo incubado a 45°C durante 40 min (grupo de desafio térmico + centrifugação, CTCG). No final de cada desafio (CCG, TCG e CTCG), os mesmos testes laboratoriais utilizados para o grupo de controle foram realizados. A seguinte taxa de concepção (CR) foi observada para cada partida (B): B1 = 48,9% (44/90), B2 = 44,2% (23/52), B3 = 55,5% (40/72) e B4 = 43,2% (51/118); (P < 0,10). No laboratório, B3 apresentou maior (P ≤ 0,05) motilidade progressiva (PM) do que B4 logo após o descongelamento (grupo controle) e após todos os desafios laboratoriais (TCG, CCG e CTCG). Porém, apesar de B3 e B4 demonstrarem similar porcentagem de PMI no grupo controle (B3 = 66,7 ± 1,3 e B4 = 65,2 ± 3,3), B3 apresentou maior (P ≤ 0,05) PMI (37,2 ± 2,5%) do que B4 (26,7 ± 3,3%) após passar pelo maior desafio laboratorial (CTCG). A partida seminal que in vitro apresentou maior resistência aos desafios laboratoriais foi a mesma que apresentou tendência para maior fertilidade in vivo. Assim, sugere-se que submeter amostras seminais a desafios laboratoriais pode ser uma alternativa interessante para selecionar partidas com maior fertilidade a campo.
Jan Dullaert of Ghent on the Foundations of Propositional Logic
Authors: Hanke Miroslav
Published: November 2017

Jan Dullaert (1480-1513) was a direct student of John Mair and a teacher of Gaspar Lax, Juan de Celaya, and Juan Luis Vives. His commentary on Aristotle’s Peri Hermeneias addresses the foundations of propositional logic, including a detailed analysis of conditionals (following Paul of Venice’s Logica magna) and the semantics of logical connectives (conjunction, disjunction, and implication). Dullaert’s propositional logic is limited to the immediate implications of the semantics of these connectives, i.e., their introduction and elimination rules. In the same context, he discusses several alternative treatments of semantic paradoxes, paying most attention to the approaches derived from Martin Le Maistre (based on the idea that sentential meaning is closed under entailment) and John Mair (based on the idea that self-falsifying sentences are false).
Marketing Body Parts: Morality, Law, and Public Opinion
Authors: Davis Michael
Published: November 2017

This article offers an economic (market-based) argument for prohibiting not only transplant commercialism (trafficking and tourism) but also donation of quasi-replaceable body parts (such as first kidney) that require the mutilation of a living human body (turning a part of a person that does not regenerate into a thing to be implanted in another). The argument relies on the concept of pollution (negative effects of a market that fall on participants without their informed consent). The article includes a critique of part of the Declaration of Istanbul.
“Complacency or Complicity?: Reconsidering the un Command’s Role in Syngman Rhee’s Release of North Korean pows”
Authors: Chae Grace
Published: November 2017

Under cover of night, on 18 June 1953, South Korean President Syngman Rhee released nearly 25,000 “non-repatriate” North Korean prisoners of war (pows). The event occurred just as United Nations Command (unc), Chinese, and North Korean negotiators were preparing to sign a hard-fought armistice agreement at P’anmunjŏm that long had been delayed on the question of voluntary repatriation of pows. unc officials articulated an enduring tale of surprise and betrayal, one that persists in Korean War histories to this day. However, this article, after an examination of unc pow camp records, is able to look beyond their outrage to discover that the u.s. Army, in fact, formulated a deliberate strategy of restraint for a likely prisoner release. This plan grew out of unc Commander General Mark W. Clark’s sympathy for anti-Communist pows and a sense of anxiety regarding the future of u.s. relations with the Republic of Korea (rok). Although no evidence exists to support a claim that u.s. officials formally colluded with the rok government, the u.s. military played a complicit role in Rhee’s pow release.
“Victory over Communism: South Korean Protestants’ Ideas about Democracy, Development, and Dictatorship, 1953–1961”
Authors: Yoon Jeongran
Published: November 2017

This article complicates the traditional narrative of anti-Communist Christians in Korea, examining the history of anti-communism among them in light of their claims to support democracy and development. Changes in Christian thinking in Korea followed the end of formal fighting in the Korean War. The conflict transformed Korea’s post-colonial history into a developmental struggle, pitting communism versus capitalism in a deadly battle. From the mid-1950s, South Korean Protestants saw the struggle as a competition between two systems, not simply one to eradicate the North Korean regime. From this new perspective, they began condemning political injustice and corruption under President Syngman Rhee. The contradictions in the ideas of Christians were partly embodied in their support for the civil uprising that would topple the Rhee regime, but also in their endorsement of Park Chung-hee’s military takeover in 1961. South Korean Protestants assisted the coup’s central leadership and helped a totalitarian regime come to power. This paradoxical aspect within Korean Protestant history is closely tied to the unique characteristics of its anti-communism and how it evolved after the Korean War.
Prodromus of a fern flora for Bolivia. XIV. Schizaeaceae
Authors: KESSLER MICHAEL , SMITH ALAN R.
Published: November 2017

We provide a synopsis of the family Schizaeaceae in Bolivia, comprising four species in the genera Actinostachys and Schizaea. Due to their inconspicuous nature, several species of the family are poorly known in Bolivia, and additional species are likely to be found in the future.
Two new tiger-moth species from Afrotropics with reviews of genera Pericaliella and Monstruncusarctia (Lepidoptera, Noctuoidea: Erebidae, Arctiinae)
Authors: DUBATOLOV VLADIMIR V.
Published: November 2017

Two new species, Pericaliella popoudinae Dubatolov, sp. nov. from Rwanda, and Monstruncusarctia anikini Dubatolov, sp. nov. from Uganda are described in comparison with related species, Pericaliella melanodisca (Hampson, 1907) from Uganda, and Monstruncusarctia aurantiaca (Holland, 1893) from Gabon and West Africa. Habitus and male genitalia are illustrated.
Description of a new species of Saliocleta Walker, 1862 (Lepidoptera, Notodontidae, Spatalinae, Ceirini) and description of S. notia Schintlmeister, 1997 female from Thailand
Authors: PELLINEN MARKKU J.
Published: November 2017

One new Saliocleta (type-species nonagrioides Walker, 1862), S. puyak sp. n., and the female of S. notia Schintlmeister, 1997 are described from Northern Thailand. The male genitalia structure of Saliocleta is examined in detail.
A new species of direct-developing frog of the genus Pristimantis (Anura: Terrarana: Craugastoridae) from Cordillera del Cóndor, Ecuador, with comments on threats to the anuran fauna of the region
Authors: VALENCIA JORGE H. , DUEÑAS MANUEL R. , SZÉKELY PAUL , BATALLAS DIEGO , PULLUQUITÍN FRANCISCO , RON SANTIAGO R.
Published: November 2017

A new frog in the genus Pristimantis is described from a cloud forest on the western flanks of the Cordillera del Cóndor and eastern Andean slopes in the province of Zamora Chinchipe, southeastern of Ecuador. We inferred its phylogenetic position using DNA sequences of mitochondrial and nuclear genes. The new species is strongly supported as part of a clade that includes P. ardalonychus, P. cajamarcensis, P. ceuthospilus, P. chalceus, P. minutulus, P. luteolateralis, P. parvillus, P. ockendeni, P. unistrigatus, and P. walkeri. It can be distinguished from all other species from Cordillera del Cóndor and congeneric species by the unique combination of the following characters: (1) iris light blue with black reticulations; (2) skin of dorsum finely shagreen with scattered pustular tubercles and absence of dorsal folds; (3) tympanic membrane and tympanic annulus visible; (4) snout rounded in dorsal and lateral view; (5) upper eyelid bearing two or three enlarged subconical tubercles; (6) cranial crest absent; (7) males lacking vocal sac and slits; and (8) venter uniformly bright red, light red, salmon or orange. The new species is most closely related to P. ardalonychus, P. cajamarcensis, P. ceuthospilus, P. ockendeni and P. unistrigatus. We consider the new species to be Endangered following IUCN criteria because it has been severely affected by large scale open-pit mining in some localities. Currently, the amphibian fauna of the Cordillera del Cóndor and nearby protected areas are threatened by large–scale copper and gold mining projects with devastating effects on ~20 species, including several undescribed ones.