bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TUBB1 dysfunction in inherited thrombocytopenia causes genome instability
Authors: Matsumura Takayoshi , Nakamura‐Ishizu Ayako , Takaoka Kensuke , Maki Hiroaki , Muddineni Siva S. N. A. , Wang Chelsia Q. , Suzushima Hitoshi , Kawakita Makoto , Asou Norio , Matsuoka Masao , Kurokawa Mineo , Osato Motomi , Suda Toshio
Published: March 2019

Inherited thrombocytopenia is a genetically heterogeneous disease characterized by varying degrees of thrombocytopenia and risk of haematological malignancy, and the genetic cause of many cases remains unknown. We performed whole‐exome sequencing of a family with thrombocytopenia and myeloid malignancy and identified a novel TUBB1 variant, T149P. Screening of other thrombocytopenia pedigrees identified another TUBB1 variant, R251H. TUBB1 encodes the tubulin β‐1 chain, a major component of microtubules abundant in megakaryocytes. Variant TUBB1 disrupted the normal assembly of microtubules and impaired proplatelet formation in vitro. In addition, DNA damage response was severely attenuated by loss of TUBB1. We found that the nuclear accumulation of p53 (also termed TP53) and the expression of pro‐apoptotic genes triggered by genotoxic stress were blocked in TUBB1‐deficient cells and, accordingly, apoptosis after DNA damage was diminished by knockdown of TUBB1. Thus, we have demonstrated that microtubule dysfunction confers resistance to apoptosis, even in DNA damage‐accumulated cells, which explains genome instability in the affected individuals. These studies will lead us to a better understanding of how microtubule dysfunction can contribute to the accumulation of DNA damage, genetic instability and leukaemogenesis.
Long‐term prognosis of epilepsy in patients with cerebral palsy
Authors: Tsubouchi Yoshiko , Tanabe Ayako , Saito Yoshiaki , Noma Hisashi , Maegaki Yoshihiro
Published: March 2019

Aim

To assess the long‐term natural course and prognosis of epilepsy in patients with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

We retrospectively collected data for 72 patients (36 males, 36 females) withCPwho had epilepsy who visited our institutions between 1980 and 2015. The data from medical records, electroencephalography (EEG), and neuroimaging findings were reviewed. Time‐to‐event statistical analyses were performed to analyse the remission outcome and the Cox regression model was used for multivariate analyses.

Results

Median age at onset of epilepsy was 2 years 0 months, and 17 years 0 months at the latest follow‐up. In total, 34 patients (47%, 0.043 per person‐year) achieved seizure remission at a median age of 11 years 0 months. Favourable factors for seizure remission included older age, motor disability being able to roll over/crawl but not able to sit, intellectual disability with anIQbetween 36 and 70, normal findings on neuroimaging, andCPtype other than spastic quadriplegia. In multivariate analysis, spastic quadriplegia was found to be associated with continued seizure activity. Antiepileptic drugs could be discontinued without relapse in 10 patients at a median age of 16 years 6 months, occurring 11 years 6 months after the onset of epilepsy. The drugs were terminated if the patient was aged at least 10 years and had perinatal causative aetiology and normalization or amelioration of epileptiform discharges onEEG.

Interpretation

The remission rate of epilepsy inCPincreases up to young adulthood, and termination of antiepileptic drugs can be considered in selected cases at older ages.

What this paper adds

The remission rate of epilepsy in cerebral palsy increases up to 20 years after onset.

In some cases, antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) can be terminated without relapse.

Older age, perinatal aetiology, and improvement on electroencephalography are favourable factors for terminating AEDs.
Submandibular gland botulinum neurotoxin A injection for predicting the outcome of submandibular duct relocation in drooling: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kok Saskia E , van Valenberg Hans F J P , van Hulst Karen , Jongerius Peter , Erasmus Corrie E , van den Hoogen Frank J A
Published: March 2019

Aim

This study evaluated whether the effect of submandibular gland botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT‐A) injection can predict the outcome of submandibular duct relocation with sublingual gland excision (SMDR) in children with drooling. Furthermore, we compared the effectiveness of both procedures.

Method

A retrospective cohort study was performed in 42 children and adolescents (25 males, 17 females; mean [SD] age at BoNT‐A injection 11y [4], range 4–20y; mean [SD] age at SMDR 15y [4], range 7–23y) with cerebral palsy or another non‐progressive developmental disability who had undergone both BoNT‐A injection and SMDR for drooling. Main outcomes were the drooling quotient and the visual analogue scale (VAS) on drooling severity at 8 weeks and 32 weeks follow‐up.

Results

Failure or success of previous BoNT‐A injections had no influence on success of consecutive SMDR. Relative change in main outcomes showed no significant relation between BoNT‐A injection and SMDR for any follow‐up measurement. After 8 weeks, SMDR was more successful than BoNT‐A injection in diminishing VAS (VAS 80.0% vs 54.3%; drooling quotient 56.2% vs 51.0%). After 32 weeks, both drooling quotient (64.3% vs 29.5%) and VAS (75.7% vs 37.1%) showed significantly higher proportions of success for SMDR.

Interpretation

The effect of submandibular BoNT‐A injection does not predict subsequent SMDR success in drooling. Furthermore, SMDR has a larger and longer‐lasting positive effect on drooling than BoNT‐A injections.

What this paper adds

Submandibular botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT‐A) injection effect does not predict submandibular duct relocation with sublingual gland excision outcome.

Submandibular duct relocation is more effective and more permanent than BoNT‐A injection.
Pain coping strategies in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Chaleat‐Valayer Emmanuelle , Roumenoff Fabienne , Bard‐Pondarre Rachel , Ganne Christell , Verdun Stephane , Lucet Aurelie , Bernard Jean‐Claude
Published: March 2019

Aim

To describe coping strategies in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP), relative to age.

Method

Patients were prospectively recruited from two paediatric rehabilitation centres in France. The Pediatric Pain Coping Inventory – French and Structured Pain Questionnaire were completed by an experienced professional for each child.

Results

One hundred and forty‐two children with CP were included (80 males, 62 females; median age 12y; IQR=8–15y). They generally used fewer coping strategies than typically developing children (‘Seeks social support and action’: 12.47 vs 12.85, p=0.477; ‘Cognitive self‐instruction’: 9.28 vs 10.90, p<0.001; ‘Distraction’: 4.89 vs 7.00, p<0.001; ‘Problem solving’: 4.43 vs 5.19, p<0.001). In the CP group, ‘Seeks social support and action’ decreased with age (p=0.021) and ‘Cognitive self‐instruction’ increased with age (p<0.001). ‘Problem solving’ and ‘Distraction’ did not change with age. Coping strategies were influenced by Gross Motor Function Classification System level (p=0.022) and history of surgery (p=0.002).

Interpretation

Children with CP generally used fewer coping strategies than typically developing children and tended to rely on social support. Use of active strategies increased with age; however, they appeared later than in typically developing children and were used to a lesser extent.

What this paper adds

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) use fewer pain‐coping strategies than typically developing children.

Children with CP tend to use social support to cope with pain.

Children with CP learn more appropriate strategies from previous painful experiences.

Active coping strategies appear later but remain underused in children with CP.
The adaptive potential of plant populations in response to extreme climate events
Authors: Torres‐Martínez Lorena , McCarten Niall , Emery Nancy C.
Published: March 2019

The frequency and magnitude of extreme climate events are increasing with global change, yet we lack predictions and empirical evidence for the ability of wild populations to persist and adapt in response to these events. Here, we used Fisher's Fundamental Theorem of Natural Selection to evaluate the adaptive potential of Lasthenia fremontii, a herbaceous winter annual that is endemic to seasonally flooded wetlands in California, to alternative flooding regimes that occur during El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events. The results indicate that populations may exhibit greater adaptive potential in response to dry years than wet years, and that the relative performance of populations will change across climate scenarios. More generally, our findings show that extreme climate events can substantially change the potential for populations to adapt to climate change by modulating the expression of standing genetic variation and mean fitness.
Anxiety and depression symptoms disrupt resting state connectivity in patients with genetic generalized epilepsies
Authors: Garcia Danielle dos Santos , Polydoro Marina Sconzo , Alvim Marina Kutsodontis Machado , Ishikawa Akari , Moreira José Carlos Vasques , Nogueira Mateus Henrique , Zanão Tamires Araújo , de Campos Brunno Machado , Betting Luiz Eduardo Gomes Garcia , Cendes Fernando , Yasuda Clarissa L.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To analyze the lifetime trajectories in genetic generalized epilepsies (GGEs) and investigate the impact of symptoms of anxiety and depression on resting state functional connectivity (FC).

Methods

Seventy‐four GGE patients were classified according to the pharmacological response as seizure‐free (12 patients), pharmacoresistant (PhR; 14 patients), and fluctuating (FL; 48 patients). Fifty‐four subjects completed both the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and 38 also underwent 3‐T resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging. These 38 patients were subdivided into a positive group (13 patients with concurrent symptoms of depression and anxiety) and a negative group (21 asymptomatic patients and four with mild anxiety or depression symptoms). For FC analysis of resting state networks, we matched 38 healthy asymptomatic volunteers and used the UF2C toolbox running on MATLAB2017/SPM12.

Results

The PhR group presented shorter duration of epilepsy (P = 0.016) and follow‐up (P < 0.001) compared to the FL group. The PhR group showed higher levels (median = 20) on the BAI and BDI. Myoclonic seizures were the most difficult to control, as 50% of subjects persisted with them at last appointment, compared to generalized tonic–clonic seizures and absence seizures (<40%). Patients with concurrent anxiety and depression symptoms were 7.7 times more likely to exhibit pharmacoresistant seizures, although an increase of 1 year of epilepsy duration was associated with a decrease in the odds of presenting pharmacoresistance by a factor of 0.9. Overall, FC was altered between default mode network (DMN) and visuospatial/dorsal attention. However, only the positive group displayed abnormal FC between DMN and left executive control network, and between salience and visuospatial/dorsal attention.

Significance

Our findings may help clinicians to have a better understanding of GGE clinical course and increase attention to the potential relationship of psychopathologies and brain connectivity.
Phytophagous insect fauna of Onopordum spp. thistles in the south of Syria
Authors: Alewi Y. , Ibrahim G. , Almouemar A.
Published: March 2019

Thistles from the genus Onopordum (Asteraceae) are of Mediterranean and Eurasian origin. They are very common in the south of Syria, in particular in Damascus and Al Suwayda, and are found in fallow fields, pastures, roadsides and neglected areas. In 2015–2017, several sites with large populations of Onopordum spp. were identified. Weekly surveys of some of the sites, mainly in the regions of Damascus and Al Suwayda, revealed a significant diversity of phytophagous insect species, some of which had a very high population density. A total of 29 insect species were detected, belonging to four orders and 21 families. The most abundant species were from the order Coleoptera. These were observed to be feeding on different plant parts of Onopordum spp. Purely endophagous species comprised 38% of the species observed on Onopordum spp., ectophagous species comprised 45% with 17% of species mixed ectophagous and endophagous. Species that only fed on Onopordum spp. represented 34% of all the species observed.
Differences in plasma and peritoneal fluid proteomes identifies potential biomarkers associated with survival following strangulating small intestinal disease
Authors: Bardell D. , Milner P. I. , Goljanek‐Whysall K. , Peffers M. J.
Published: March 2019

Background

Strangulating small intestinal disease (SSID) carries a poor prognosis for survival in comparison to other types of colic, particularly if resection is required. Identification of markers which aid early diagnosis may prevent the need for resection, assist with more accurate prognostication and/or support the decision on whether surgical intervention is likely to be successful, would be of significant welfare benefit.

Objectives

To apply an unbiased methodology to investigate the plasma and peritoneal fluid proteomes in horses diagnosed with SSID requiring resection, to identify novel biomarkers which may be of diagnostic or prognostic value.

Study design

Prospective clinical study.

Methods

Plasma and peritoneal fluid from horses presented with acute abdominal signs consistent with SSID was collected at initial clinical examination. Samples from eight horses diagnosed with SSID at surgery in which resection of affected bowel was performed and four control horses subjected to euthanasia for orthopaedic conditions were submitted for liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Protein expression profiles were determined using label‐free quantification. Data were analysed using analysis of variance to identify differentially expressed proteins between control and all SSID horses and SSID horses which survived to hospital discharge and those which did not. Significance was assumed at P≤0.05.

Results

A greater number of proteins were identified in peritoneal fluid than plasma of both SSID cases and controls, with 123 peritoneal fluid and 13 plasma proteins significantly differentially expressed (DE) between cases and controls (P<0.05, ≥2 fold change). Twelve peritoneal fluid proteins (P<0.036) and four plasma proteins (P<0.05) were significantly DE between SSID horses which survived and those which did not.

Main limitations

A low number of samples were analysed, there was variation in duration and severity of SSID and only short‐term outcome was considered.

Conclusions

Changes in peritoneal fluid proteome may provide a sensitive indicator of small intestinal strangulation and provide biomarkers relevant to prognosis.
Radiative forcing of methane fluxes offsets net carbon dioxide uptake for a tropical flooded forest
Authors: Dalmagro Higo J. , Zanella de Arruda Paulo H. , Vourlitis George L. , Lathuillière Michael J. , de S. Nogueira José , Couto Eduardo G. , Johnson Mark S.
Published: March 2019

Wetlands are important sources of methane (CH4) and sinks of carbon dioxide (CO2). However, little is known about CH4 and CO2 fluxes and dynamics of seasonally flooded tropical forests of South America in relation to local carbon (C) balances and atmospheric exchange. We measured net ecosystem fluxes of CH4 and CO2 in the Pantanal over 2014–2017 using tower‐based eddy covariance along with C measurements in soil, biomass and water. Our data indicate that seasonally flooded tropical forests are potentially large sinks for CO2 but strong sources of CH4, particularly during inundation when reducing conditions in soils increase CH4 production and limit CO2 release. During inundation when soils were anaerobic, the flooded forest emitted 0.11 ± 0.002 g CH4‐C m−2 d−1 and absorbed 1.6 ± 0.2 g CO2‐C m−2 d−1 (mean ± 95% confidence interval for the entire study period). Following the recession of floodwaters, soils rapidly became aerobic and CH4 emissions decreased significantly (0.002 ± 0.001 g CH4‐C m−2 d−1) but remained a net source, while the net CO2 flux flipped from being a net sink during anaerobic periods to acting as a source during aerobic periods. CH4 fluxes were 50 times higher in the wet season; DOC was a minor component in the net ecosystem carbon balance. Daily fluxes of CO2 and CH4 were similar in all years for each season, but annual net fluxes varied primarily in relation to flood duration. While the ecosystem was a net C sink on an annual basis (absorbing 218 g C m−2 (as CH4‐C + CO2‐C) in anaerobic phases and emitting 76 g C m−2in aerobic phases), high CH4 effluxes during the anaerobic flooded phase and modest CH4 effluxes during the aerobic phase indicate that seasonally flooded tropical forests can be a net source of radiative forcings on an annual basis, thus acting as an amplifying feedback on global warming.
Warming impacts on boreal fen CO2 exchange under wet and dry conditions
Authors: Laine Anna M. , Mäkiranta Päivi , Laiho Raija , Mehtätalo Lauri , Penttilä Timo , Korrensalo Aino , Minkkinen Kari , Fritze Hannu , Tuittila Eeva‐Stiina
Published: March 2019

Northern peatlands form a major soil carbon (C) stock. With climate change, peatland C mineralization is expected to increase, which in turn would accelerate climate change. A particularity of peatlands is the importance of soil aeration, which regulates peatland functioning and likely modulates the responses to warming climate. Our aim is to assess the impacts of warming on a southern boreal and a sub‐arctic sedge fen carbon dioxide (CO2) exchange under two plausible water table regimes: wet and moderately dry. We focused this study on minerotrophic treeless sedge fens, as they are common peatland types at boreal and (sub)arctic areas, which are expected to face the highest rates of climate warming. In addition, fens are expected to respond to environmental changes faster than the nutrient poor bogs. Our study confirmed that CO2 exchange is more strongly affected by drying than warming. Experimental water level draw‐down (WLD) significantly increased gross photosynthesis and ecosystem respiration. Warming alone had insignificant impacts on the CO2 exchange components, but when combined with WLD it further increased ecosystem respiration. In the southern fen, CO2 uptake decreased due to WLD, which was amplified by warming, while at northern fen it remained stable. As a conclusion, our results suggest that a very small difference in the WLD may be decisive, whether the C sink of a fen decreases, or whether the system is able to adapt within its regime and maintain its functions. Moreover, the water table has a role in determining how much the increased temperature impacts the CO2 exchange.
The value of a craft brewery: On the relationship between craft breweries and property values
Authors: Nilsson Isabelle , Reid Neil
Published: March 2019

Recent literature and public discourse emphasize the role of craft breweries in the revitalization process of economically distressed neighborhoods across the U.S. With this, many are reporting rising property values in areas surrounding craft breweries. This research examines the impacts of craft breweries on both residential and commercial property values in a case study of Charlotte, North Carolina. Estimating a series of hedonic models which incorporate a difference‐in‐difference estimator, we find that craft breweries have a positive impact on residential property values. While many areas in close proximity to a craft brewery appear to have been associated with relatively higher price premiums even before the opening of the brewery, breweries tend to add to this premium, especially in center‐city neighborhoods. We find no significant impacts on commercial property values. These results are informative to policy makers considering revising zoning laws and other regulations in efforts to promote the growth of craft breweries and spur economic development in their local economies.
Structure‐function relationship between a natural cosmetic active ingredient and the olfactory receptor OR2AT4
Authors: Verzeaux L. , Richer S. , Viguier J. , Gofflo S. , Boudier D. , Aymard E. , Closs B.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Although the olfactory receptor OR2AT4 was described as involved in epidermal renewal, there is no data about a cosmetic active ingredient activating this receptor. The aim of this research work was thus to identify a natural molecule binding to this receptor in order to stimulate keratinocyte migration.

Methods

For this purpose, natural molecules were extracted from Cocos nucifera flour. Then, efficacy of this natural extract was evaluated on keratinocyte migration in vitro. Molecules of the Cocos nucifera flour extract were then identified by UPLC‐MS/MS. Molecular docking was finally conducted to investigate the potential interaction between identified molecules and the olfactory receptor OR2AT4.

Results

The Cocos nucifera flour extract significantly increased keratinocyte migration and results demonstrated that this effect was mediated by the olfactory receptor OR2AT4. Metabolomic analysis revealed two molecules, nonioside D and butyl 4‐O‐alpha‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐beta‐D‐glucopyranoside, as significantly present in the Cocos nucifera flour extract compared to both Cocos nucifera oil and water. Finally, molecular docking revealed that butyl 4‐O‐alpha‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐beta‐D‐glucopyranoside could interact with the extracellular domain 2 of the OR2AT4.

Conclusion

This study highlighted for the first time a natural molecule, extracted from Cocos nucifera flour, able to interact with the olfactory receptor OR2AT4 and promote the keratinocyte migration and thus the epithelialization.
Empowering migrant domestic helpers through financial education
Authors: Zhou Huiquan , Dai Haijing , Jung Nahri
Published: March 2019

The provision of financial education for migrant domestic helpers is an important service that could enhance their financial well‐being and the well‐being of their families. However, in that migrant domestic helpers are often excluded from protection in the host country, such services are few and empirical research in this area is rare. In this article, we report the findings of an evaluation study on a financial literacy education programme provided by a Hong Kong organisation serving Filipina and Indonesian migrant domestic workers. Using a quasi‐experimental design, we confirmed the effectiveness of the programme. Participants who attended the programme developed improved financial knowledge and behaviour. Their general self‐efficacy and financial self‐efficacy were also enhanced.

Key Practitioner Message: • Migrant domestic helpers’ financial well‐being is enhanced through intensive financial education in financial knowledge and behaviour; • Migrant domestic helpers’ self‐efficacy is strengthened through peer discussion of financial education; • Effective services for migrant workers in the host country need to be in the migrants’ native language and be culturally sensitive.
The Signal of Applying for a Job Under a Vacancy Referral Scheme
Authors: Van Belle Eva , Caers Ralf , De Couck Marijke , Di Stasio Valentina , Baert Stijn
Published: March 2019

We investigate the signalling effect related to participation in active labor‐market programs. To this end, we conduct an experiment in which human resources professionals make hiring decisions concerning fictitious job candidates who apply either under a job‐vacancy referral system or directly. We provide first causal evidence for a substantial adverse effect of referral on the probability of being hired. In addition, we find that employers perceive referred candidates as being less motivated than other candidates.
Characterisation of dehydrated amnion chorion membranes and evaluation of fibroblast and keratinocyte responses in vitro
Authors: McQuilling John P. , Kammer MaryRose , Kimmerling Kelly A. , Mowry Katie C.
Published: March 2019

The purpose of this study is to characterise the composition of a dehydrated amnion and chorion graft and investigate how factors released from this graft interact with cells important to the wound microenvironment using in vitro models. Characterisation was completed by proteomic analysis of growth factors and cytokines, evaluation of matrix components and protease inhibition, immunohistochemistry, and in vitro release of key growth factors and cytokines. To evaluate the effect of released factors on cells found within the microenvironment, in vitro assays including: cell proliferation, migration, gene expression, protein production, and intracellular pathway activation were used; additionally, responses of fibroblasts in the context of inflammation were measured. We found that released factors from dehydrated amnion/chorion membranes (dACM) stimulated cell proliferation, migration, and altered gene and protein expression profiles of cells important for wound repair in vitro. When cells were cultured in the presence of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, the addition of releasate from dACM resulted in an altered production of cytokines, including a reduction of pro‐inflammatory regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES). In sum, the results presented here characterise the components of dACM, and in vitro studies were used to evaluate interactions of dACM with cell types important in wound healing.
Evaluation of rare‐earth element dopants (Sm and Er) on ablation resistance of ZrB2/SiC‐sintered billets
Authors: Peña Angel A. , Vernon Jonathan P. , Trice Rodney W.
Published: March 2019

In this paper, how rare‐earth element dopants (samarium and erbium) affect the scale development of sintered ZrB2/SiC (ZBS) samples during ablation testing was investigated. ZBS billets with five different Sm to Er ratios, with a nominal total amount of 3 mol% dopant incorporated, were prepared by sintering in vacuum to 2000°C and subjected to 60 and 300 seconds ablation cycles. Differences in surface temperatures between ZBS samples with different dopant ratios suggests differences in spectral absorptance/emittance between each of the five compositions investigated. ZBS billets co‐doped with Sm and Er form a beneficial c1‐(Sm/Er)0.2Zr0.8O1.9 oxide scale as the majority phase, with some glassy phase observed. The crystalline c1‐(Sm/Er)0.2Zr0.8O1.9 oxide scale is more thermally stable than the m‐ZrO2 oxide scale typically formed in oxidized ZBS systems, resulting in a more adherent oxide scale to the unreacted material. The crystalline oxide scale and the amorphous phase are formed by a convection cell mechanism where the c1‐(Sm/Er)0.2Zr0.8O1.9 crystalline islands precipitate, grow, and coalesce.
Large‐scale growth of patterned SiC nanowire arrays and their field emission performance
Authors: Yang Wenyou , Wang Wei , Xie Chunxiao
Published: March 2019

Fabrication of patterned one‐dimensional (1D) nanostructures was recognized as the key process for the construction of functional display devices. In current investigation, we put forward the large‐scale and uniform growth of patterned 3C‐SiC nanowire arrays assisted by the patterned Au catalysts on SiC wafer substrate. The as‐fabricated SiC nanowires presented tapered configuration with a typical bamboo‐like body as well as clear and sharp tips. The as‐fabricated SiC nanoarray cathode has outstanding field emission (FE) characteristic that has a low turn‐on field (Eto) of ~ 1.54 V/μm. The mechanism for their electron emission behaviors has been proposed.
Effects of Potassium Chloride‐Induced Stress on the Carotenoids Canthaxanthin, Astaxanthin, and Lipid Accumulations in the Green Chlorococcal Microalga Strain TISTR 9500
Authors: Janchot Kantima , Rauytanapanit Monrawat , Honda Masaki , Hibino Takashi , Sirisattha Sophon , Praneenararat Thanit , Kageyama Hakuto , Waditee‐Sirisattha Rungaroon
Published: March 2019

Microalgae are a diverse group of photosynthetic eukaryotic organisms that are widely distributed globally. They are prolific sources of highly valuable compounds with fascinating chemical structures. Due to their balanced nutritional compositions and health benefits, they are increasingly being used as functional food ingredients. Carotenoid‐based pigments and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are examples of high‐value nutrients that can be accumulated abundantly in microalgae. Here, the effects of potassium chloride‐induced stress on the productions of lipids and carotenoids in the green microalga of the Chlorococcaceae family were investigated. Under normal BG11 medium, this green microalga strain TISTR 9500 accumulated high levels of PUFA and primary carotenoid lutein. Stress tests revealed that KCl enhanced and modulated lipid and carotenoid accumulation levels. The liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) analysis revealed that secondary carotenoids astaxanthin and canthaxanthin were robustly produced under KCl stress with the similar content of lutein. Further, this stress led to a significant increase in the total FA amount with the higher proportion of unsaturated FA than saturated FA. Thus, this green microalga could be an attractive and alternative natural biosource for canthaxanthin and astaxanthin, as well as for functional lipids.
Anatomy transformed
Authors: Lee T. C. , Molnár Z. , Stein A. , O'Dea M. , Kokaram A. , Simms C. K.
Published: March 2019

This paper arose from exhibitions in Oxford and Dublin and comprises three experiments which look at the relationship between anatomy and art. In the first experiment, a passport photograph, photographic portrait and portrait in oils, all of the same sitter, show how artistic input transforms anatomy from a mere likeness into works of art. In the second, the reverse is true, as computer techniques render idealized old master images anatomically accurate. The third experiment addresses the biomechanical consequences of anatomical variation and shows that vehicular design is based on mean body shapes, and so it is the average, rather than the idealized, form that is safer in a collision.
Liver rupture in a 28‐year‐old primigravida with superimposed pre‐eclampsia and hemolysis, elevated liver enzyme levels, and low platelet count syndrome
Authors: Kaltofen Till , Grabmeier Johanna , Weissenbacher Tobias , Hallfeldt Klaus , Mahner Sven , Hutter Stefan
Published: March 2019

Serious hepatic complications, although rare, are one of the leading causes of maternofetal morbidity and mortality in hypertensive pregnancy disorders. A 28‐year‐old primigravida was transferred to our hospital complaining of refractory epigastric pain in the 29th week of pregnancy and was subsequently admitted due to superimposed pre‐eclampsia and hemolysis, elevated liver enzyme levels, and low platelet count syndrome. Following a pathological cardiotocogram, a cesarean section was performed. The intra‐abdominal situs presented with 1000 mL of blood and a bleeding rupture of the left lobe of the liver. The trauma to the liver was surgically repaired with a suture and the patient's state was stabilized. Following the surgical procedures and neonatal intensive care, mother and newborn both recovered without residues. In order to avoid unnecessary maternal morbidity, we therefore recommend an abdominal ultrasound, beyond an obstetric focus, as an additional and sensible means of diagnostic imaging in cases of hemolysis, elevated liver enzyme levels, and low platelet count syndrome.
Understanding 2016: China, Brexit and Trump in the history of uneven and combined development
Authors: Rosenberg Justin , Boyle Chris
Published: March 2019

This article uses the theory of uneven and combined development (U&CD) to produce a novel explanation of ‘Brexit and Trump’ – the two shock political events of 2016. The argument proceeds in three steps. First, we identify the global conjuncture of historicalunevennessin which the votes occurred: how the neoliberal transformation of the advanced capitalist countries was synchronized with the radically different process of primitive accumulation in China. Second, we apply the theory of U&CD to this peculiar ‘simultaneity of the non‐simultaneous’: the ‘big country’ effects of China's industrialization, we find, were thrice multiplied by itscombinationwith the advanced sectors of the world economy, which accelerated China's take‐off, brought forward its export phase, and widened its export profile at a moment of maximum openness in international trade. Finally, this produced the pattern ofdevelopmentthat led to the events of 2016: the resultant trade shocks intensified the internal inequalities of British and American societies in ways that match the geography of the Leave and Trump votes. The analysis has a wider intellectual implication too, for the phenomena of historical unevenness and combination are intrinsic to the history of the global political economy; and the theory of U&CD therefore has a unique contribution to make to the field of International Political Economy.
A fifth generation of revolution theory?
Authors: Allinson Jamie
Published: March 2019

The study of revolution in historical sociology is conventionally divided into four ‘generations’ of scholarship, with the fourth associated with an agency‐focused approach that departed from an immanent critique of the structuralism they saw in the third. However, the resurgence of revolution in the early 21st century led to the criticism that even the fourth generation had failed sufficiently to overcome its structuralist limitations. This essay identifies a hitherto unacknowledged ‘fifth’ generation, exemplified in the three works under review, and distinguished by its move away from an object of study conceived as violent social transformation towards non‐violent change of political regime. This focus on revolutions with many friends and few enemies entailed a convergence with democratization and social movement theory, and the post‐Cold War dominance of the United States as global context. That liberal moment now having passed, revolutions have again become far more divisive and class‐based affairs even if they do not propose a programme of profound social transformation, as witnessed in the aftermath of the ‘Arab Spring.’
Changing Times Together? A Time‐Diary Analysis of Family Time in the Digital Age in the United Kingdom
Authors: Mullan Killian , Chatzitheochari Stella
Published: March 2019

Objective: This study examines the impact of digital mobile devices on different aspects of family time in the United Kingdom.

Background: Recent years have witnessed increasing concerns surrounding the consequences of the widespread diffusion of Internet‐enabled mobile devices such as smartphones for family well‐being. However, research examining the extent to which mobile devices have influenced family time remains limited.

Method: Using nationally representative time‐diary data spanning a period of unprecedented technological change (U.K. 2000 and 2015 Time Use Surveys), the authors construct a set of novel family time measures that capture varying degrees of family togetherness and examine changes in these measures over time. Novel diary data are also analyzed to explore the occurrence of mobile device use during different aspects of family time in 2015.

Results: Children and parents spent more time at the same location in 2015, and there was no change in the time they spent doing activities together. However, there was a marked increase of alone‐together time, when children were at the same location as their parents, but did not report that they were copresent with them. The results show that children and parents used mobile devices during all aspects of family time in 2015, but device use was notably concentrated during alone‐together time.

Conclusion: This study provides an empirical basis for documenting the impact of mobile device use on family time.
Bridging the gap: A network approach to Dark Triad, Mental Toughness, the Big Five, and perceived stress
Authors: Papageorgiou Kostas A. , Benini Elena , Bilello Delfina , Gianniou Foteini‐Maria , Clough Peter J. , Costantini Giulio
Published: March 2019

Objective

We employed the network methodology to explore the connections between the Dark Triad (DT) traits with Mental Toughness (MT) and the degree to which they account for perceived stress beyond the Big Five (B5).

Method

Network analyses were undertaken to explore connections between the DT, MT, and perceived stress, independently in two samples, and in the combined dataset; and whether B5 factors are responsible for the connections that emerged in the original network.

Results

DT and MT traits improved the prediction of perceived stress above the B5. Furthermore, narcissism occupied a strategic position in the network acting as a bridge between prosocial and “dark” sides of personality. The pattern of network connections could not be explained by B5 traits alone.

Conclusions

The results suggest that there is more to personality than what can be captured by the B5 and that broadening the domain of personality beyond the B5 can improve the prediction of important outcomes, such as perceived stress. Narcissism is a unique trait and studying its connection with MT may be the key to moving forward from a dichotomous way of perceiving personality traits, as beneficial or malevolent, to focusing on a dynamic continuum of personality.
#poetryisnotdead: understanding Instagram poetry within a transliteracies framework
Authors: Kovalik Kate , Curwood Jen Scott
Published: March 2019

Adolescents are more connected to the globalised world than ever before, with an increased prevalence of social media use amongst youth. Young people are composing multimodal creative works, including digital poetry, to share with an online audience, using platforms such as Instagram. Drawing on transliteracies theory, this case study found that three main themes appeared regarding the nature of literacy practices on Instagram. Community and interactivity were important to poets, especially in regard to feedback. The platform and complementary apps, especially those used for photo editing, afforded poets agency and fostered multimodality when composing, thus highlighting the changing nature of digitised writing practices. Value was placed on the mobility and accessibility of Instagram as a mobile app, for composing and consuming digital poetry. Young people may therefore be considered innovators of multimodal writing who employ ever‐evolving technologies to engage in authentic literacy practices in digital spaces. As a result, this study suggests that the implications of Instapoetry on English pedagogy include the increased exposure and relevance of poetry writing and appreciation, a space for student‐centred writing, reading, and analysis of poems, as well as a relevant method of peer review and collaboration.
Feasibility of approximate measurement of bladder volume in male patients using the Lilium α‐200 portable ultrasound bladder scanner
Authors: Kamei Jun , Watanabe Daiji , Homma Yukio , Kume Haruki , Igawa Yasuhiko
Published: March 2019

Objective

This study examined the accuracy of a new portable ultrasound bladder scanner, the Lilium α‐200 (Lilium Otsuka, Kanagawa, Japan), by evaluating the correlation between bladder volumes periodically measured by the Lilium α‐200 and instilled volume during video‐urodynamic studies (V‐UDS).

Methods

Using the Lilium α‐200, fluid volume was measured prospectively in the bladders of patients with lower urinary tract dysfunction during V‐UDS. This was done both immediately after micturition (for assessment of post‐void residual [PVR] volume) and at 1‐minute intervals during filling cystometry with patients in the supine position. These measurements were then compared with the PVR volume obtained directly by catheter drainage and instilled volume during cystometry using paired t tests and Spearman's rank correlation.

Results

Fifteen male patients (median age 70.5 years; range 18‐84 years) were included in the study. The PVR volume measured by the Lilium α‐200 was strongly correlated with that obtained by catheter drainage (r = 0.94; P < 0.0001). There was a strong correlation between instilled and bladder volumes measured by the Lilium α‐200 at every minute during and at the end of instillation (281 measurements in 15 patients; r = 0.86; P < 0.0001). However, the relative error of bladder volumes measured by the Lilium α‐200 during cystometry showed considerable variation (mean [± SD] 5.6 ± 62.9%).

Conclusions

Bladder volumes measured periodically by the Lilium α‐200 during cystometry were strongly correlated with actual PVR or instilled volumes. However, they showed considerable variation and may not predict actual volume accurately. The Lilium α‐200 is feasible for obtaining an approximate measure of bladder volume.
Libyan Desert Glass area in western Egypt: Shocked quartz in bedrock points to a possible deeply eroded impact structure in the region
Authors: Koeberl Christian , Ferrière Ludovic
Published: March 2019

Libyan Desert Glass (LDG) is an enigmatic natural glass, about 28.5 million years old, which occurs on the floor of corridors between sand dunes of the southwestern corner of the Great Sand Sea in western Egypt, near the Libyan border. The glass occurs as centimeter‐ to decimeter‐sized, irregularly shaped, and strongly wind‐eroded pieces. The origin of the LDG has been the subject of much debate since its discovery, and a variety of exotic processes were suggested, including a hydrothermal sol‐gel process or a lunar volcanic source. However, evidence of an impact origin of these glasses included the presence of schlieren and partly or completely digested minerals, such as lechatelierite, baddeleyite (a high‐T breakdown product of zircon), and the presence of a meteoritic component in some of the glass samples. The source material of the glass remains an open question. Geochemical data indicate that neither the local sands nor sandstones from various sources in the region are good candidates to be the sole precursors of the LDG. No detailed studies of all local rocks exist, though. There are some chemical and isotopic similarity to rocks from the BP and Oasis impact structures in Libya, but no further evidence for a link between these structures and LDG was found so far. These complications and the lack of a crater structure in the area of the LDG strewn field have rendered an origin by airburst‐induced melting of surface rocks as a much‐discussed alternative. About 20 years ago, a few shocked quartz‐bearing breccias (float samples) were found in the LDG strewn field. To study this question further, several basement rock outcrops in the LDG area were sampled during three expeditions in the area. Here we report on the discovery of shock‐produced planar microdeformation features, namely planar fractures (PFs), planar deformation features (PDFs), and feather features (FFs), in quartz grains from bedrock samples. Our observations show that the investigated samples were shocked to moderate pressure, of at least 16 GPa. We interpret these observations to indicate that there was a physical impact event, not just an airburst, and that the crater has been almost completely eroded since its formation.
Thermo‐mechanical interaction of a large impact melt sheet with adjacent target rock, Sudbury impact structure, Canada
Authors: Göllner Paul L. , Wüstemann Torben , Bendschneider Lisa , Reimers Sebastian , Clark Martin D. , Gibson Lisa , Lightfoot Peter C. , Riller Ulrich
Published: March 2019

The 1.85 Ga Sudbury Igneous Complex (SIC) and its thermal aureole are unique on Earth with regard to unraveling the effects of a large impact melt sheet on adjacent target rocks. Notably, the formation of Footwall Breccia, lining the basal SIC, remains controversial and has been attributed to impact, cratering, and postcratering processes. Based on detailed field mapping and microstructural analysis of thermal aureole rocks, we identified three distinct zones characterized by static recrystallization, incipient melting, and crystallization textures. The temperature gradient in the thermal aureole increases toward the SIC and culminates in a zone of partial melting, which correlates spatially with the Footwall Breccia. We therefore conclude that assimilation of target rock into initially superheated impact melt and simultaneous deformation after cratering strongly contributed to breccia formation. Estimated melt fractions of the Footwall Breccia amount to 80 vol% and attest to an extreme loss in mechanical strength and, thus, high mobility of the Breccia during assimilation. Transport of highly mobile Footwall Breccia material into the overlying Sublayer Norite of the SIC and vice versa can be attributed to Raleigh–Taylor instability of both units, long‐term crater modification caused by viscous relaxation of crust underlying the Sudbury impact structure, or both.
Expression of immune‐related genes in rectum and colon descendens of Irritable Bowel Syndrome patients is unrelated to clinical symptoms
Authors: Aguilera‐Lizarraga Javier , Florens Morgane V. , Van Brussel Thomas , Clevers Egbert , Van Oudenhove Lukas , Lambrechts Diether , Wouters Mira M. , Boeckxstaens Guy E.
Published: March 2019

Background

Mucosal immune activation has been postulated to play an important role in the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, data are conflicting and often based on small patient cohorts. Here, we aimed to evaluate the gene expression of a large set of immune‐related genes in mucosal biopsies from IBS patients and healthy volunteers (HV).

Methods

A total of 171 IBS patients and 127 HV were included in the study. Rectum biopsies were collected from a cohort of 70 HV and 77 IBS patients (Rome III) and colon descendens biopsies from another cohort of 57 HV and 94 IBS patients (Rome II). Gene expression was assessed using OpenArray technology, and validated questionnaires were used to evaluate clinical characteristics (GI symptoms, somatization, anxiety, and depression).

Key Results

A subset of IBS patients (33%) with increased immune activation in the colon descendens was identified using multivariate analysis and displayed increased gene expression of IL1B (3‐fold change), prostaglandin synthase PTGS2 (2.1‐fold change), and the G‐protein‐coupled receptor MRGPRX2 (10.7‐fold change). Clinical characteristics in this subgroup were however similar to the rest of the patient cohort. Analysis of rectal biopsies failed to identify such subgroup of “immuno‐active” IBS patients in the other patient cohort.

Conclusion

A subset of IBS patients reveals evidence of immune activation in the colon descendens, but not in the rectum; however, gene expression is unrelated to clinical symptoms. To what extent this subgroup might however respond to anti‐inflammatory therapy remains to be investigated.