bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PD‐L1 expression enhancement by infiltrating macrophage‐derived tumor necrosis factor‐α leads to poor pancreatic cancer prognosis
Authors: Tsukamoto Masayo , Imai Katsunori , Ishimoto Takatsugu , Komohara Yoshihiro , Yamashita Yo‐ichi , Nakagawa Shigeki , Umezaki Naoki , Yamao Takanobu , Kitano Yuki , Miyata Tatsunori , Arima Kota , Okabe Hirohisa , Baba Yoshifumi , Chikamoto Akira , Ishiko Takatoshi , Hirota Masahiko , Baba Hideo
Published: November 2018

Immunotherapy using anti‐PD‐1/PD‐L1 antibodies for several types of cancer has received considerable attention in recent decades. However, the molecular mechanism underlying PD‐L1 expression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells has not been clearly elucidated. We investigated the clinical significance and regulatory mechanism of PD‐L1 expression in PDAC cells. Among the various cytokines tested, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α upregulated PD‐L1 expression in PDAC cells through NF‐κB signaling. The induction of PD‐L1 expression was also caused by co‐culture with activated macrophages, and the upregulation was inhibited by neutralization with anti‐TNF‐α antibody after co‐culture with activated macrophages. PD‐L1 expression in PDAC cells was positively correlated with macrophage infiltration in tumor stroma of human PDAC tissues. In addition, survival analysis revealed that high PD‐L1 expression was significantly associated with poor prognosis in 235 PDAC patients and especially in patients harboring high CD8‐positive T‐cell infiltration. These findings indicate that tumor‐infiltrating macrophage‐derived TNF‐α could be a potential therapeutic target for PDAC.
Y‐box binding protein‐1 promotes tumorigenesis and progression via the epidermal growth factor receptor/AKT pathway in spinal chordoma
Authors: Liang Chen , Ma Yunlong , Yong Lei , Yang Chenlong , Wang Peng , Liu Xiao , Zhu Bin , Zhou Hua , Liu Xiaoguang , Liu Zhongjun
Published: November 2018

Chordomas are rare bone tumors with a poor prognosis and no approved targeted therapy. Y‐box binding protein‐1 (YBX1) promotes tumor growth, invasion and drug resistance. However, the role of YBX1 in chordoma is unclear. In this study, we examined the expression of YBX1 using immunohistochemistry and found that YBX1 was significantly upregulated in 32 chordoma tissues compared to distant normal tissues. In addition, YBX1 upregulation was associated with surrounding tissue invasion, recurrence and poor prognosis. Biological function studies demonstrated that YBX1 promoted cell proliferation and invasion, accelerated G1/S phase transition, and inhibited apoptosis. Further investigation revealed that YBX1 enhanced epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) transcription by directly binding to its promoter in chordoma cells. YBX1 regulated protein expression of p‐EGFR, p‐AKT and its downstream target genes that influenced cell apoptosis, cell cycle transition and cell invasion. YBX1 activated the EGFR/AKT pathway in chordoma and YBX1‐induced elevated expression of key molecules in the EGFR/AKT pathway were downregulated by EGFR and AKT pathway inhibitors. These in vitro results were further confirmed by in vivo data. These data showed that YBX1 promoted tumorigenesis and progression in spinal chordoma via the EGFR/AKT pathway. YBX1 might serve as a prognostic and predictive biomarker, as well as a rational therapeutic target, for chordoma.
CCL2 induces resistance to the antiproliferative effect of cabazitaxel in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Natsagdorj Ariunbold , Izumi Kouji , Hiratsuka Kaoru , Machioka Kazuaki , Iwamoto Hiroaki , Naito Renato , Makino Tomoyuki , Kadomoto Suguru , Shigehara Kazuyoshi , Kadono Yoshifumi , Lin Wen‐Jye , Maolake Aerken , Mizokami Atsushi
Published: November 2018

Understanding the mechanism of chemoresistance and disease progression in patients with prostate cancer is important for developing novel treatment strategies. In particular, developing resistance to cabazitaxel is a major challenge in patients with docetaxel‐resistant and castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) because cabazitaxel is often administered as a last resort. However, the mechanism by which cabazitaxel resistance develops is still unclear. C‐C motif chemokine ligands (CCL) were shown to contribute to the castration resistance of prostate cancer cells via an autocrine mechanism. Therefore, we focused on CCL as key factors of chemoresistance in prostate cancer cells. We previously established a cabazitaxel‐resistant cell line, DU145‐TxR/CxR, from a previously established paclitaxel‐resistant cell line, DU145‐TxR. cDNA microarray analysis revealed that the expression of CCL2 was upregulated in both DU145‐TxR and DU145‐TxR/CxR cells compared with DU145 cells. The secreted CCL2 protein level in DU145‐TxR and DU145‐TxR/CxR cells was also higher than in parental DU145 cells. The stimulation of DU145 cells with CCL2 increased the proliferation rate under treatments with cabazitaxel, and a CCR2 (a specific receptor of CCL2) antagonist suppressed the proliferation of DU145‐TxR and DU145‐TxR/CxR cells under treatments of cabazitaxel. The CCL2‐CCR2 axis decreased apoptosis through the inhibition of caspase‐3 and poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP). CCL2 is apparently a key contributor to cabazitaxel resistance in prostate cancer cells. Inhibition of the CCL2‐CCR2 axis may be a potential therapeutic strategy against chemoresistant CRPC in combination with cabazitaxel.
Mice with epidermal filaggrin deficiency show increased immune reactivity to nickel
Authors: Petersen Trine H. , Jee Mia H. , Gadsbøll Anne‐Sofie Ø. , Schmidt Jonas D. , Sloth Jens J. , Sonnenberg Gregory F. , Geisler Carsten , Thyssen Jacob P. , Bonefeld Charlotte M.
Published: November 2018

Background

Nickel allergy and dermatitis have been associated with filaggrin gene mutations in epidemiological studies, but the mechanisms mediating these associations are unknown.

Objectives

To investigate whether filaggrin‐deficient flaky tail (ft/ft) mice show increased immune reactivity to nickel and elucidate the mechanisms mediating this.

Methods

The immune responses to nickel, 2,4‐dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB), cinnamal and p‐phenylenediamine were assessed in ft/ft and wild‐type (WT) mice. The amounts of nickel in the skin of ft/ft and WT mice were determined 20 hours after nickel exposure. The effect of blocking either the interleukin (IL)‐17A pathway or the IL‐1 pathway on the response to nickel in ft/ft mice was evaluated.

Results

Increased responsiveness to nickel, DNFB and cinnamal was observed in ft/ft mice as compared with controls. A reduced amount of nickel was found in the skin of ft/ft mice as compared with WT mice, suggesting increased nickel absorption by the skin of ft/ft mice. Blocking either the IL‐17A pathway or the IL‐1 pathway reduced nickel responsiveness in ft/ft mice.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the increased nickel responsiveness associated with epidermal filaggrin deficiency is mediated by a combination of increased nickel penetration and the steady‐state inflammation found in the skin of filaggrin‐deficient mice.
The impact of blood pressure variability and pulse pressure on graft survival and mortality after kidney transplantation
Authors: Pagonas Nikolaos , Markakis Konstantinos , Bauer Frederic , Seibert Felix S. , Seidel Max , Zidek Walter , Kykalos Stylianos , Sasko Benjamin , Klein Thomas , Babel Nina , Viebahn Richard , Westhoff Timm H.
Published: November 2018

Background

Blood pressure variability and pulse pressure are strong and independent predictors of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in the general population. So far, there are no data on the impact of blood pressure variability on mortality and graft survival after renal transplantation.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 877 patients who underwent kidney transplantation between 1997 and 2011 in two transplant centers in Germany (Berlin and Bochum) with a follow‐up of 12‐266 months. Visit‐to‐visit blood pressure variability over the first 12 months after transplantation (3 visits) and during the first 120 months after transplantation (7 visits) was calculated as the coefficient of variation (CV = standard deviation (SD)/mean blood pressure). Patient and graft survival was defined as composite endpoint.

Results

Cumulative survival was significantly higher for those patients with lower systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure within both the first 12 months and the 120 months posttransplant. After adjustment of data for gender, age, body mass index, and coronary artery disease, the cumulative incidence of the combined endpoint did not significantly differ between patients with lower vs higher CV (12 months CV hazard ratio (HR) (95% CI) = 0.90 (0.66‐1.23), P = 0.51; 120 months CV HR (95% CI) = 0.92 (0.67‐1.26), P = 0.60). A lower systolic blood pressure remained highly predictive for better survival in adjusted analyses.

Conclusion

Visit‐to‐visit blood pressure variability is not associated with mortality or graft loss after kidney transplantation in this retrospective analysis. In analogy to the general population, however, there is an inverse relationship of survival and pulse pressure as a marker of arterial stiffness.
Renewable Energy: The Trillion Dollar Opportunity for Chinese Overseas Investment
Authors: Cabré Miquel Muñoz , Gallagher Kevin P. , Li Zhongshu
Published: November 2018

This paper compares the global flows of Chinese overseas investment in power plants with renewable energy investment potential embodied in “Nationally Determined Contributions.” With over US$1tn (671 GW) in Nationally Determined Contributions renewable energy investment potential in developing countries, we estimate the total level of power plant investments from China's policy banks and commercial entities since the early 2000s at US$216bn (158 GW). Although past investment has mainly been directed at fossil fuels and hydroelectric power, we argue that China is uniquely poised to lead renewable energy global investments for three reasons: (i) China's solar and wind industries are globally competitive; (ii) Chinese policy banks can give domestic firms advantages in financing global expansion; and (iii) renewable energy investment opportunities still exist in developing countries with less sovereign risk than for traditional energy investments. The Chinese government should provide special incentives for the policy banks to capitalize on these investment opportunities by deploying Chinese solar and wind technologies to Belt and Road countries and beyond.
Does “Internet Plus” Promote New Export Space for Firms? Evidence from China
Authors: Huang Xianhai , Song Xueyin , Hu Xinyue
Published: November 2018

Based on data from the Chinese Industrial Enterprises Database, this paper investigates the effect of “Internet Plus” on the trade destination mix at the enterprise level. The analysis extends the classic dual margins to three dimensions: destination extensive, destination intensive and destination structural margins. The paper suggests that connecting to the internet not only raises Chinese firms' propensity to export, but also extends the destination extensive margin. In addition, Internet Plus could create a synergistic effect for internet‐enabled enterprises, that is, the development of the destination country's internet access benefits domestic firms' export participation. Finally, the paper finds that Internet Plus, rather than increasing the intensive or structural margins, leads to the transfer of exports to lower‐middle‐income countries and helps firms achieve competitiveness and thus increases their profit. The paper provides an explanatory mechanism and empirical evidence for firms' use of the internet to optimize export space.
The Ebb and Flow of Indigenous Rights Recognitions in Conservation Policy
Authors: Witter Rebecca , Satterfield Terre
Published: November 2018

At the 2003 World Parks Congress, diverse conservation actors called for the end of exclusionary approaches to conservation; recognition of customary forms of environmental protection; and restoration of losses to indigenous peoples whose lands were incorporated into protected areas without meaningful consent. A primary means to achieving such reforms has been the development of rights‐based approaches to conservation, expressed at the time as the better integration of human rights into the planning and management of protected areas. This article reviews the suite of publications that followed the 2003 Congress, each identifying the need for rights‐based approaches in conservation. All reviewed materials seek to operationalize human rights into conservation planning, but the review indicates a pattern of support for, then retreat from, and even a possible ‘backlash’ against, indigenous rights. The review also finds important differences in organizations’ ideas about who is responsible for protecting the environment versus who is responsible for protecting human rights. The authors draw from these findings a caution against the subversion of the original intention of rights‐based conservation to definitions that more fully serve conservation organizations’ own ends, based on the presumption that benefits (including rights) from environmental protection will eventually trickle down to people.
Influences of visual attributes of food packaging on consumer preference and associations with taste and healthiness
Authors: Marques da Rosa Valentina , Spence Charles , Miletto Tonetto Leandro
Published: November 2018

Two experiments designed to investigate how the shape and colour of packaging, and product category, conjointly impact consumers’ product and packaging expectations are reported. In Experiment 1, the shape (rounded vs. angular) and visual appearance (greyscale, red‐to‐yellow and blue‐to‐green colour schemes) of the packaging were manipulated. Dependent measures were preference (willingness to purchase the product, how attention‐capturing the packaging is, and the pleasantness of the design) and any taste associations. In Experiment 2, shape (rounded vs. angular), colour (red‐to‐yellow vs. blue‐to‐green colour schemes), and product category (buttery vs. cereal cookies) were manipulated. In this case, the dependent measures were the perceived product healthiness and the preference of consumers. The results of Experiment 1 revealed that packaging colour influenced product preference. Red‐to‐yellow and blue‐to‐green colour schemes and angular packaging were preferred over greyscale and round packaging. Colour also influenced taste associations, while shape only influenced ratings of expected sweetness. In Experiment 2, packaging shape and product category influenced product preference. In particular, rounded packaging and the packaging of buttery cookies were preferred over angular packaging and the cereal cookies packaging. The healthiness of the product was rated higher for the rounded and red‐to‐yellow packaging containing a buttery product. Taken together, these results highlight the important role played by colour, shape, and category on the expectations and associations elicited by viewing product packaging.
Efferocytosis capacities of blood monocyte‐derived macrophages in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Ballerie Alice , Lescoat Alain , Augagneur Yu , Lelong Marie , Morzadec Claudie , Cazalets Claire , Jouneau Stéphane , Fardel Olivier , Vernhet Laurent , Jégo Patrick , Lecureur Valérie
Published: November 2018

A defect in the apoptotic cell clearance (efferocytosis) by phagocytic cells may participate in autoimmunity and chronic inflammation. The mechanisms leading to the emergence of autoimmunity in systemic sclerosis (SSc) are still to be determined. In this study, the efferocytosis capacities of blood monocyte‐derived macrophages (MDM) from patients with SSc were evaluated. Blood monocytes obtained from patients with SSc and healthy donors (HD) were differentiated in vitro into macrophages. The capacities of MDM to engulf CFSE+ apoptotic Jurkat human T lymphocytes were compared between SSc MDM and HD using flow cytometry. The expression of classical engulfing receptors in SSc MDM and HD MDM was also evaluated and their involvement in the modulation of efferocytosis was confirmed using a siRNA approach. The mean phagocytic index (PI) reflecting efferocytosis capacities of SSc MDM (PI = 19.3 ± 3.0; n = 21) was significantly decreased in comparison with the PI of HD MDM (PI = 35.9 ± 3.0; n = 31; P < 0.001). In comparison with HD, SSc MDM exhibited a downregulated expression of scavenger receptor (SR)‐B1, SR‐A1 and integrin β5 (ITGβ5). In HD MDM, the extinction of these receptors was followed by a reduction of efferocytosis only for the repression of ITGβ5, suggesting a possible selective role of this integrin in the impaired efferocytosis observed in SSc. As efferocytosis may be at the crossroads of inflammation, autoimmunity and fibrosis, in showing impaired efferocytosis capacities of blood MDM in SSc, our study offers new pathogenesis considerations for the involvement of macrophages in the autoimmune processes driving this disorder.
Influenza epidemics observed in primary care from 1984 to 2017 in France: A decrease in epidemic size over time
Authors: Souty Cécile , Amoros Philippe , Falchi Alessandra , Capai Lisandru , Bonmarin Isabelle , van der Werf Sylvie , Masse Shirley , Turbelin Clément , Rossignol Louise , Vilcu Ana‐Maria , Lévy‐Bruhl Daniel , Lina Bruno , Minodier Laëtitia , Dorléans Yves , Guerrisi Caroline , Hanslik Thomas , Blanchon Thierry
Published: November 2018

Background

Epidemiological analysis of past influenza epidemics remains essential to understand the evolution of the disease and optimize control and prevention strategies. Here, we aimed to use data collected by a primary care surveillance system over the last three decades to study trends in influenza epidemics and describe epidemic profiles according to circulating influenza viruses.

Methods

Influenza‐like illness (ILI) weekly incidences were estimated using cases reported by general practitioners participating in the French Sentinelles network, between 1984 and 2017. Influenza epidemics were detected by applying a periodic regression to this time series. Epidemic (co‐)dominant influenza virus (sub)types were determined using French virology data.

Results

During the study period, 297 607 ILI cases were reported allowing the detection of 33 influenza epidemics. On average, seasonal epidemics lasted 9 weeks and affected 4.1% of the population (95% CI 3.5; 4.7). Mean age of cases was 29 years. Epidemic size decreased over time by ‐66 cases per 100 000 population per season on average (95% CI −132; −0.2, P value = 0.049) and epidemic height decreased by ‐15 cases per 100 000 (95% CI −28; −2, P value = 0.022). Epidemic duration appeared stable over time. Epidemics were mostly dominated by A(H3N2) (n = 17, 52%), associated with larger epidemic size, higher epidemic peak and older age of cases.

Conclusions

The declining trend in influenza epidemic size and height over the last 33 years might be related to several factors like increased vaccine coverage, hygiene improvements or changing in influenza viruses. However, further researches are needed to assess the impact of potential contributing factors to adapt influenza plans.
Antihypertensive therapy prescribing patterns and correlates of blood pressure control among hypertensive patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Magvanjav Oyunbileg , Cooper‐DeHoff Rhonda M. , McDonough Caitrin W. , Gong Yan , Segal Mark S. , Hogan William R. , Johnson Julie A.
Published: November 2018

We used electronic health records (EHRs) data from 5658 ambulatory chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients with hypertension and prescribed antihypertensive therapy to examine antihypertensive drug prescribing patterns, blood pressure (BP) control, and risk factors for resistant hypertension (RHTN) in a real‐world setting. Two‐thirds of CKD patients and three‐fourths of those with proteinuria were prescribed guideline‐recommended renoprotective agents including an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) or an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB); however, one‐third were not prescribed an ACEI or ARB. CKD patients, particularly those with stages 1‐2 CKD, who were prescribed regimens including beta‐blocker (BB) + diuretic or ACEI/ARB + BB + diuretic were more likely to have controlled BP (<140/90 mm Hg) compared to those prescribed other combinations. Risk factors for RHTN included African American race and major comorbidities. Clinicians may use these findings to tailor antihypertensive therapy to the needs of each patient, including providing CKD stage‐specific treatment, and better identify CKD patients at risk of RHTN.
Effect of intrauterine device insertion on Candida species in cervicovaginal specimen identified by polymerase chain reaction technic: A longitudinal study on Iranian women
Authors: Moradi Raheleh , Shariat Mamak , Moghaddam‐Banaem Lida
Published: November 2018

Aim

To assess the effects of copper T‐380‐A intrauterine device (IUD) insertion on Candida species in cervicovaginal specimen by a molecular method, polymerase chain reaction.

Methods

This is a longitudinal prospective study performed on 95 women attending Health Centers of Tehran, Iran in 2012, who selected copper T‐380‐A IUD for contraception and had no history of local or systemic antibiotics or antifungals use during the previous 2 weeks. Cervicovaginal specimens were twice collected and cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar and CHROMagar Candida, before and 3 months after IUD insertion. Finally, a molecular method, PCR‐RFLP was performed for identification of Candida species. P‐values <0.05 were considered significant.

Results

The mean age of participants was 28 ± 7.44 years. Positive Candida cultures were significantly increased 3 months after IUD insertion (25.3% vs 11.6%, P = 0.007). The most common identified species before and after IUD insertion, were Albicans, Glabrata and then both ‘Albicans & Glabrata’, respectively. The prevalence of Albicans and Glabrata decreased, while both ‘Albicans & Glabrata’ increased insignificantly.

Conclusion

There was more than about fourfold increase in positive Candida cultures after IUD insertion. As the prevalence of simultaneous infection with both ‘Albicans & Glabrata’ species which are resistant to usual treatment, increased, it seems necessary to provide more intensive follow‐up care for IUD users.
Social Distance toward Syrian Refugees: The Role of Intergroup Anxiety in Facilitating Positive Relations
Authors: Koc Yasin , Anderson Joel R.
Published: November 2018

The number of asylum seekers and refugees across the world is rapidly increasing. Negative attitudes toward these groups are globally prevalent and typically hostile because most receiving country citizens perceive them to be a security threat and an economic burden. This paper aims to understand the antecedents of negative attitudes toward a large refugee group currently garnering a great deal of attention—Syrian refugees, and experimentally test ways to ameliorate negative attitudes. In Study 1 (N = 122), we investigated predictors of social distance—as a proxy for prejudice—and found right‐wing authoritarianism and intergroup anxiety to be significant predictors. In Study 2 (N = 162), we tested whether perceived acculturation orientation would predict social distance and found that Americans were less prejudiced toward Syrians who preferred to assimilate rather than integrate. Finally, in Study 3 (N = 153), we tested if a form of vicarious contact could reduce social distance via reduced intergroup anxiety; we found initial evidence for this mediation link. We discussed the potential for the vicarious contact intervention to foster positive intergroup relations and contribute to refugee wellbeing.
Ms1 RNA increases the amount of RNA polymerase in Mycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Šiková Michaela , Janoušková Martina , Ramaniuk Olga , Páleníková Petra , Pospíšil Jiří , Bartl Pavel , Suder Agnieszka , Pajer Petr , Kubičková Pavla , Pavliš Ota , Hradilová Miluše , Vítovská Dragana , Šanderová Hana , Převorovský Martin , Hnilicová Jarmila , Krásný Libor
Published: November 2018

Ms1 is a sRNA recently found in mycobacteria and several other actinobacterial species. Ms1 interacts with the RNA polymerase (RNAP) core devoid of sigma factors, which differs from 6S RNA that binds to RNAP holoenzymes containing the primary sigma factor. Here we show that Ms1 is the most abundant non‐rRNA transcript in stationary phase in Mycobacterium smegmatis. The accumulation of Ms1 stems from its high‐level synthesis combined with decreased degradation. We identify the Ms1 promoter, PMs1, and cis‐acting elements important for its activity. Furthermore, we demonstrate that PNPase (an RNase) contributes to the differential accumulation of Ms1 during growth. Then, by comparing the transcriptomes of wt and ΔMs1 strains from stationary phase, we reveal that Ms1 affects the intracellular level of RNAP. The absence of Ms1 results in decreased levels of the mRNAs encoding β and β′ subunits of RNAP, which is also reflected at the protein level. Thus, the ΔMs1 strain has a smaller pool of RNAPs available when the transcriptional demand increases. This contributes to the inability of the ΔMs1 strain to rapidly react to environmental changes during outgrowth from stationary phase.
Contribution of cell wall peroxidase‐ and NADPH oxidase‐derived reactive oxygen species to Alternaria brassicicola‐induced oxidative burst in Arabidopsis
Authors: Kámán‐Tóth Evelin , Dankó Tamás , Gullner Gábor , Bozsó Zoltán , Palkovics László , Pogány Miklós
Published: November 2018

Cell wall peroxidases and plasma membrane‐localized NADPH oxidases are considered to be the main sources of the apoplastic oxidative burst in plants attacked by microbial pathogens. In spite of this established doctrine, approaches attempting a comparative, side‐by‐side analysis of the functions of extracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by the two enzymatic sources are scarce. Previously, we have reported the role of Arabidopsis NADPH oxidase RBOHD (respiratory burst oxidase homologue D) in plants challenged with the necrotrophic fungus Alternaria brassicicola. Here, we present results on the activity of apoplastic class III peroxidases PRX33 (At3g49110) and PRX34 (At3g49120) investigated in the same Arabidopsis–Alternaria pathosystem. ROS generated by Arabidopsis peroxidases PRX33 and PRX34 increase the necrotic symptoms and colonization success of A. brassicicola. In addition, the knockdown of PRX33 and PRX34 transcript levels leads to a reduced number of host cells showing an extracellular burst of ROS after inoculation with A. brassicicola. Our results also reveal an age‐dependent transcript distribution of ROS‐producing peroxidase and NADPH oxidase enzymes, and some potential new components of the RBOHD, PRX33 and PRX34 signalling networks.
High‐resolution impedance manometry parameters in the evaluation of esophageal function of non‐obstructive dysphagia patients
Authors: Singendonk Maartje J. , Lin Zhiyue , Scheerens Charlotte , Tack Jan , Carlson Dustin A. , Omari Taher I. , Pandolfino John E. , Rommel Nathalie
Published: November 2018

Background

High‐resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) allows evaluation of esophageal bolus retention, flow, and pressurization. We explored novel HRIM measures and assessed their temporal relationship to dysphagia symptoms for boluses of different volume and consistency in non‐obstructive dysphagia (NOD) patients.

Methods

Thirty‐three NOD patients (n = 19 minor or no disorder of peristalsis (“Normal”) and n = 14 esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (“EGJOO”)) were evaluated with HRIM. Patients were administered 5 and 10 mL liquid, semisolid, and 2 and 4 cm solid boluses and indicated bolus perception during individual swallows using a 5‐point Likert scale. HRIM was analyzed to assess Chicago Classification and pressure flow metrics, esophageal impedance integral (EII) ratio, and bolus flow time (BFT).

Key Results

Overall, bolus perception increased with increasing bolus consistency (P < 0.001), but did not differ significantly between EGJOO and Normal patients. EGJOO patients had higher IRP4, higher levels of bolus residual (ie, EII ratio and IR), and restricted esophageal emptying. The results for linking semisolid bolus perception to semisolid‐derived measures revealed more biomechanically plausible and consistent patterns when compared to those derived for liquid boluses. In Normal patients, perception of boluses of heavier viscosity was related to higher bolus flow resistance during transport, whilst in EGJOO, perception was related to restriction of esophageal emptying.

Conclusion & Inferences

These novel pressure‐impedance measures may aid in the evaluation of NOD patients by revealing abnormal motor patterns, which may explain symptom generation. Future studies are needed to evaluate which of these measures are worthy of calculation and to establish protocol settings that allow for their meaningful interpretation.
Locating two novel genes for resistance to powdery mildew from Avena byzantina in the oat genome
Authors: Herrmann Matthias Heinrich , Mohler Volker
Published: November 2018

Powdery mildew of oats is a major threat to intensive oat farming under humid climate, and the use of resistant cultivars is the most environmentally friendly way of achieving safe yields. In this study, the genetic mapping of unexplored resistance genes from Avena byzantina accessions AVE2406 and AVE2925, designated Pm9 and Pm10, is described. Both accessions were crossed with susceptible cultivars, and monogenic segregation was established based on detached leaf segment tests. The two recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations RIL29 (with AVE2925) and RIL24 (with AVE2406) were phenotyped for powdery mildew resistance and genotyped with DArTseq. The genetic map of RIL24 had 2,516 markers in 30 linkage groups with a length of 2,641.5 cM; for RIL29, 921 markers were allocated to 30 linkage groups totalling to 1,378.2 cM. A major resistance QTL in RIL24 harbouring Pm9 was mapped to Mrg21 of the consensus map using BLASTn analysis. For RIL29, a QTL was found on Mrg03. The results support that at least Pm9 is different from the powdery mildew resistance genes mapped so far.
Histopathological characterization of the neuroglial tissue in ovarian teratoma associated with anti‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis
Authors: Iemura Yoshiki , Yamada Yosuke , Hirata Masahiro , Kataoka Tatsuki R , Minamiguchi Sachiko , Haga Hinonori
Published: November 2018

Anti‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is a rare but occasionally fatal limbic encephalitis that may be accompanied by ovarian teratoma. Since the neuroglial tissue within the teratoma may be involved in the pathogenesis of this encephalitis, we attempted morphological and immunohistochemical characterization of the neuroglial tissue in four cases of ovarian teratoma associated with anti‐NMDA receptor encephalitis and 12 control cases, i.e., six consecutive cases of immature teratoma and six cases of mature teratoma with an abundant neuronal component, focusing mainly on NMDA receptor‐expressing neurons. NMDA receptor‐expressing neurons, being observed in all of the cases analyzed, were significantly densely aggregated (P = 0.030, Wilcoxon test) and relatively smaller in size in the encephalitis‐associated cases than in the control cases, and the Ki‐67 labeling index of neuroglial cells with these neurons was significantly higher in the encephalitis‐associated cases (P = 0.004, Wilcoxon test). In the cases with encephalitis, aggregation of B‐cells within or around the neuroglial tissue was also observed. Our present findings may be useful for more accurate diagnosis of anti‐NMDA receptor encephalitis and contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis.
Functional traits but not environmental gradients explain seed weight in Mongolian plant species
Authors: Amartuvshin N. , Hülber K. , Plutzar C. , Tserenbaljid G.
Published: November 2018

Seed weight varies by several orders of magnitude among vascular plant species. However, the importance of potential drivers such as environmental conditions and plant functional traits have rarely been assessed for a larger taxonomic sample.

We collected seeds of 148 species from 237 sites spread across Mongolia and compared their weight among the major zonal vegetation types, taxonomic groups and a set of functional traits (growth form, dispersal mode, fruit type, storage organs and palatability).

Seed weight strongly varied among all functional traits and taxonomic groups, but no differences among vegetation zones were detected.

These results suggest a low impact of environmental conditions on the evolution of seed weight, contrasting the strong phylogenetic signal.
Erratum for Supply chain strategies and international tax arbitrage
Authors: Shunko Masha , Do Hung T. , Tsay Andy A.
Published: November 2018

This note corrects several typos in expressions and a sensitivity statement in Proposition 3 in Shunko et al. ( 2017 ).
A comparison of the uterine proteome of mares in oestrus and dioestrus
Authors: Maloney Shawn‐Elizabeth , Khan Firdous A. , Chenier Tracy S. , Diel de Amorim Mariana , Anthony Hayes Michael , Scholtz Elizabeth L.
Published: November 2018

Contents

Proteomic analysis of mare uterine flush fluid provides a minimally invasive technique for studying protein changes associated with the oestrous cycle. The aim of this study was to identify differentially abundant proteins in the uterine flush fluid of mares in oestrus and dioestrus. In this study, uterine flush fluid samples were collected from eight reproductively healthy mares in either oestrus (n = 5) or dioestrus (n = 3). Proteomic analysis was performed using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Of 172 proteins identified, six proteins (immunoglobulin lambda‐like polypeptide 1, haemoglobin subunit alpha, alpha‐1B‐glycoprotein, serotransferrin, apolipoprotein A‐1, and haemoglobin subunit beta) were significantly more abundant in oestrus. These proteins may contribute to the endometrial defence system through roles in inflammation, immunity or antimicrobial activity. In other species, some of these proteins have been described as immunoglobulins, negative acute phase proteins or defence agents against micro‐organisms. During dioestrus, immunoglobulin alpha‐1 chain C region‐related, complement factor I, CD 109 antigen and uterocalin, were significantly more abundant. Research in other species suggests that these four proteins contribute to the immune response through proposed immunoregulatory characteristics, complement system involvement or roles in B cell–T cell interactions. In conclusion, ten differentially abundant proteins were identified in the uterine flush fluid of mares in oestrus and dioestrus. Targeted studies on these proteins could elucidate their role in uterine defence mechanisms during the oestrous cycle in the mare.
Assessment of hormonal parameters and psychological well‐being in healthy subjects after a Taoist qigong program: An exploratory study
Authors: Vera Francisca M. , Manzaneque Juan M. , Rodríguez Francisco M. , Vadillo Miguel , Navajas Federico , Heiniger Ana I. , Pérez Vidal , Blanca M. José
Published: November 2018

Qigong is an ancient form of health maintenance, which is part of Traditional China Medicine. Numerous beneficial mental and physical effects have been classically ascribed to this traditional psychosomatic method. The purpose of this work has been to assess the effects of Taoist qigong practice on several hormonal parameters of the Hipotalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrenal axis and specific measures of psychological well‐being in healthy subjects. Forty‐three healthy volunteers participated in the study, of whom 22 were randomly allocated to the experimental group, and 21 were assigned to the control group. Experimental participants underwent a qigong training program for one month. Blood samples for the quantification of hormonal parameters, and several instruments to assess anxiety and depression symptoms as well as subjective sleep quality, were obtained before and after the program. Statistically significant differences were found between the experimental and control groups, with the experimental group showing lower blood levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This study shows that Taoist qigong is a psychosomatic method able to exert a modulatory action on ACTH levels in healthy subjects. We consider the need to continue exploring the psychobiological modulation of this qigong method and its possible repercussion for human health care.
Getting western: biogeographical analysis of morphological variation, mitochondrial haplotypes and nuclear markers reveals cryptic species and hybrid zones in the Junonia butterflies of the American southwest and Mexico
Authors: Lalonde Melanie M.L. , Marcus Jeffrey M.
Published: November 2018

The American southwest and northern Mexico has a great degree of endemic diversity compared with the rest of North America. The Pleistocene glaciations and the dispersal of species from glacial refuges in this region have been important engines for the production of biodiversity in the region. The New World Junonia are a recent radiation of butterflies that are thought to have spent time in these refuges during periods of glacial advancement. We have reconstructed the plausible movements and the contemporary geographic distributions of the five taxa (J. coenia, J. grisea, J. litoralis, J. nigrosuffusa and J. zonalis) that occur in the American southwest and northern Mexico using phenotypic and genotypic information primarily from specimens preserved in museum collections, supplemented with additional contemporary collections. Evidence of cryptic species and hybridization events were observed using mitochondrial haplotypes, genotypic variation at the nuclear wingless locus, multilocus DNA fingerprinting, patterns of larval host plant use, variation in life‐history traits and morphological characteristics. Based on these lines of evidence, and in spite of low levels of hybridization between them, we argue that all five Junonia taxa are independent evolutionary lineages. Junonia grisea and J. coenia are morphologically very similar, but differences in morphology, life‐history traits, nuclear genotypes and mitochondrial haplotypes suggest that they are a cryptic species pair, thus elevating J. grisea comb.n. to a full species when it had previously been considered to be a subspecies of J. coenia.
Arabidopsis E2Fc is required for the DNA damage response under UV‐B radiation epistatically over the microRNA396 and independently of E2Fe
Authors: Gómez María S. , Falcone Ferreyra María L. , Sheridan María L. , Casati Paula
Published: November 2018

UV‐B radiation inhibits plant growth, and this inhibition is, to a certain extent, regulated by miR396‐mediated repression of Growth Regulating Transcription factors (GRFs). Moreover, E2Fe transcription factor also modulates Arabidopsis leaf growth. Here, we provide evidence that, at UV‐B intensities that induce DNA damage, E2Fc participates in the inhibition of cell proliferation. We demonstrate that E2Fc‐deficient plants show a lower inhibition of leaf size under UV‐B conditions that damage DNA, decreased cell death after exposure and altered SOG1 and ATR expression. Interestingly, the previously reported participation of E2Fe in UV‐B responses, which is a transcriptional target of E2Fc, is independent and different from that described for E2Fc. Conversely, we here demonstrate that E2Fc has an epistatic role over the miR396 pathway under UV‐B conditions. Finally, we show that inhibition of cell proliferation by UV‐B is independent of the regulation of class II TCP transcription factors. Together, our results demonstrate that E2Fc is required for miR396 activity on cell proliferation under UV‐B, and that its role is independent of E2Fe, probably modulating DNA damage responses through the regulation of SOG1 and ATR transcript levels.
De novo genome assembly of the stress tolerant forest species Casuarina equisetifolia provides insight into secondary growth
Authors: Ye Gongfu , Zhang Hangxiao , Chen Bihua , Nie Sen , Liu Hai , Gao Wei , Wang Huiyuan , Gao Yubang , Gu Lianfeng
Published: November 2018

Casuarina equisetifolia (C. equisetifolia), a conifer‐like angiosperm with resistance to typhoon and stress tolerance, is mainly cultivated in the coastal areas of Australasia. C. equisetifolia, making it a valuable model to study secondary growth associated genes and stress‐tolerance traits. However, the genome sequence is unavailable and therefore wood‐associated growth rate and stress resistance at the molecular level is largely unexplored. We therefore constructed a high‐quality draft genome sequence of C. equisetifolia by a combination of Illumina second‐generation sequencing reads and Pacific Biosciences single‐molecule real‐time (SMRT) long reads to advance the investigation of this species. Here, we report the genome assembly, which contains approximately 300 megabases (Mb) and scaffold size of N50 is 1.06 Mb. Additionally, gene annotation, assisted by a combination of prediction and RNA‐seq data, generated 29 827 annotated protein‐coding genes and 1983 non‐coding genes, respectively. Furthermore, we found that the total number of repetitive sequences account for one‐third of the genome assembly. Here we also construct the genome‐wide map of DNA modification, such as two novel forms N6‐adenine (6mA) and N4‐methylcytosine (4mC) at the level of single‐nucleotide resolution using single‐molecule real‐time (SMRT) sequencing. Interestingly, we found that 17% of 6mA modification genes and 15% of 4mC modification genes also included alternative splicing events. Finally, we investigated cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin‐related genes, which were associated with secondary growth and contained different DNA modifications. The high‐quality genome sequence and annotation of C. equisetifolia in this study provide a valuable resource to strengthen our understanding of the diverse traits of trees.
Rab‐mediated trafficking in the secondary cells of Drosophila male accessory glands and its role in fecundity
Authors: Prince Elodie , Kroeger Benjamin , Gligorov Dragan , Wilson Clive , Eaton Suzanne , Karch François , Brankatschk Marko , Maeda Robert K.
Published: November 2018

The male seminal fluid contains factors that affect female post‐mating behavior and physiology. In Drosophila, most of these factors are secreted by the two epithelial cell types that make up the male accessory gland: the main and secondary cells. Although secondary cells represent only ~4% of the cells of the accessory gland, their contribution to the male seminal fluid is essential for sustaining the female post‐mating response. To better understand the function of the secondary cells, we investigated their molecular organization, particularly with respect to the intracellular membrane transport machinery. We determined that large vacuole‐like structures found in the secondary cells are trafficking hubs labeled by Rab6, 7, 11 and 19. Furthermore, these organelles require Rab6 for their formation and many are essential in the process of creating the long‐term postmating behavior of females. In order to better serve the intracellular membrane and protein trafficking communities, we have created a searchable, online, open‐access imaging resource to display our complete findings regarding Rab localization in the accessory gland.
Why has the United States continued to receive net investment income as a debtor country?
Authors: Hung Juann H. , Chang Yu‐Yun
Published: November 2018

Why has the United States been able to keep receiving net international investment income as a debtor country? Several authors have pointed out that it is because US direct investments abroad have been generating better returns than have foreign direct investments in the United States. However, there is no consensus on why this is the case. This paper investigates this issue by conducting panel regressions to identify the main determinants of return on US direct investment abroad (RUSDIA) and those of return on foreign direct investment in the United States (RFDIUS), using data from 49 countries over the 1994–2013 period. Our findings suggest that the largest contributor to the RUSDIA‐RFDIUS gap is USDIA's advantage in the internalisation effect, which more than offset any negative age effect. The second largest contributor is income‐shifting activities by US‐controlled MNCs aiming to lower their overall tax payments. The third contributor is the negative age effect of inward FDI in the United States, which more than offset its weak internalisation effect. Altogether, those effects account for about 50% of the average return gap from 1994 to 2013. The contribution of the risk‐compensation hypothesis to the return gap is negligible.
Effect of High Pressure Carbon Dioxide Exposure on the Permeation Properties of Asymmetric Polysulfone Membranes for Gas Separation
Authors: Ismail A. F. , Wong L. , Matsuura T.
Published: November 2018

In this study, the dependence of permeability on the feed pressure for glassy asymmetric polysulfone membranes has been investigated. Pure CO2 and CH4 were used as test gases. In pure gas experiments with CO2, the untreated membrane showed that the carbon dioxide permeation rate increased with increasing feed pressure from one bar onwards. This is because carbon dioxide behaves as a plasticizing agent by expanding the polymer lattice and increased the frequency of molecular motions of the polymer. Moreover, high carbon dioxide concentration in the polymer film disrupts the chain packing, thereby leading to a larger free volume and enhanced rates of segmental motions. Due to swelling of the polymer matrix, the structure of the polymer matrix is loosened and consequently polymer chains become more flexible. For the treated membrane, the permeability of carbon dioxide does not increase with feed pressure but gives a steady state value over the feed pressure ranges investigated. This was in agreement with scanning electron microscopy studies, which revealed that heat treatment densified the membrane skin layer. Thus, a subsequent heat treatment to the membrane is necessary in suppressing the plasticization effect.
Morphological Study of Polyimide Mixed Matrix Membranes
Authors: Bakhtiari O. , Khosravi T. , Mosleh S. , Mohammadi T.
Published: November 2018

Polyimide mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) were synthesized by incorporating different fillers of zeolite 4A, carbon molecular sieve, and homemade carbon nanotubes into Matrimid 5218 and P84 via solution casting method. MMMs were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) and Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). Effects of fillers loading and polymer concentration on MMMs structure and thermal treatment on removing MMMs probable defects were investigated. The experimental results showed that filler particle size, nature and polymer concentration have significant effects on filler distribution inside the polymer matrices. Incorporation of fillers inside the polymers resulted in polymer free volume reduction and polymer chain attachment to and/or entrance into fillers pores and more glassy (brittle) MMMs as can be concluded by DSC and TGA analysis. Thermal treatment was found as an effective method for removing probable defects inside the MMMs.
Optimization of Polyetherimide Based CMS Membranes Preparation Conditions for CO2/CH4 Selectivit
Authors: Ahmad M. A. , Rashid N. K. A. , Hameed B. H.
Published: November 2018

Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to determine the optimum preparation conditions of polyetherimide based carbon molecular sieve (CMS) membranes. Two quadratic models were developed to correlate the pyrolysis temperature, pyrolysis time and polymer concentration to the responses; CO2 permeance and CO2/CH4permselectivity. According to the optimization analysis, the optimum preparation conditions were obtained by using pyrolysis temperature of 725°C, pyrolysis time of 3.0 h and polymer concentration of 8.52%, which resulted in CO2 permeance and CO2/CH4 permselectivity of 3.61×10–10 mol/m2.s.Pa and 4.35, respectively.