bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unigene-based RNA-seq provides insights on drought stress responses in Marsdenia tenacissima
Authors: Meng Heng-Ling , Zhang Wei , Zhang Guang-Hui , Wang Jian-Jun , Meng Zhen-Gui , Long Guang-Qiang , Yang Sheng-Chao
Published: August 2018

Marsdenia tenacissima is a well-known anti-cancer medicinal plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. Drought severely affects production and no information on its transcriptional responses to drought stress is available. In this study, cDNA libraries on control (CK), drought stress (T1), and re-watering (T2) treatments were constructed and HiSeq 2000 sequencing was performed using the Illumina platform. There were 43,129,228, 47,116,844, and 42,815,454 clean reads with Q20 values of 98.06, 98.04, and 97.88, respectively. A total of 8672, 6043, and 6537 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified when CK vs. T1, CK vs. T2, and T1 vs. T2, respectively, were analyzed. In addition, 1039, 1016, and 980 transcription factors (TFs) were identified in CK, T1, and T2, respectively. Among them, 363, 267, and 299 TFs were identified as DEGs in CK vs. T1, CK vs. T2, and T1 vs. T2, respectively. These differentially expressed TFs mainly belonged to the bHLH, bZIP, C2H2, ERF, MYB, MYB-related, and NAC families. A comparative analysis of CK vs. T1 and T1 vs. T2 found that 1174 genes were up-regulated and 2344 were down-regulated under drought stress and this pattern was the opposite to that found after re-watering. Among the 1174 genes up-regulated by drought stress, 64 were homologous to known functional genes that directly protect plants against drought stress. Furthermore, 44 protein kinases and 38 TFs with opposite expression patterns under drought stress and re-watering were identified, which are possibly candidate regulators for drought stress resistance in M. tenacissima. Our study is the first to characterize the M. tenacissima transcriptome in response to drought stress, and will serve as a useful resource for future studies on the functions of candidate protein kinases and TFs involved in M. tenacissima drought stress resistance.
Regional Striatal Cholinergic Involvement in Human Behavioural Flexibility
Authors: Bell Tiffany , Lindner Michael , Langdon Angela , Mullins Paul Gerald , Christakou Anastasia
Published: August 2018

Animal studies have shown that the striatal cholinergic system plays a role in behavioural flexibility but, until recently, this system could not be studied in humans due to a lack of appropriate non-invasive techniques. Using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) we recently showed that the concentration of dorsal striatal choline (an acetylcholine precursor) changes during reversal learning (a measure of behavioural flexibility) in humans. The aim of the present study was to examine whether regional average striatal choline was associated with reversal learning. 36 participants (mean age = 24.8, range = 18-32, 20 female) performed a probabilistic learning task with a reversal component. We measured choline at rest in both the dorsal and ventral striatum using 1H-MRS. Task performance was described using a simple reinforcement learning model that dissociates the contributions of positive and negative prediction errors to learning. Average levels of choline in the dorsal striatum were associated with performance during reversal, but not during initial learning. Specifically, lower levels of choline in the dorsal striatum were associated with a lower number of perseverative trials. Moreover, choline levels explained inter-individual variance in perseveration over and above that explained by learning from negative prediction errors. These findings suggest that the dorsal striatal cholinergic system plays an important role in behavioural flexibility, in line with evidence from the animal literature and our previous work in humans. Additionally, this work provides further support for the idea of measuring choline with 1H-MRS as a non-invasive way of studying human cholinergic neurochemistry.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Behavioural flexibility is a crucial component of adaptation and survival. Evidence from the animal literature shows the striatal cholinergic system is fundamental to reversal learning, a key paradigm for studying behavioural flexibility, however, this system remains understudied in humans. Using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, we showed that choline levels at rest in the dorsal striatum are associated with performance specifically during reversal learning. These novel findings help to bridge the gap between animal and human studies by demonstrating the importance of cholinergic function in the dorsal striatum in human behavioural flexibility. Importantly, the methods described here can not only be applied to furthering our understanding of healthy human neurochemistry, but also to extending our understanding of cholinergic disorders.
Preliminary Study of the Potential Mechanism of CTSD in the Aging Process ofSepiella japonica: Fundamental Function Analysis
Authors: Guo Baoying , Chen Yu , Qi Pengzhi , Ye Yingying , Lv Zhenming , Zhang Xiumei , Xu Kaida
Published: August 2018

Cathepsin D, a kind of endopeptidase, can degrade peptides and proteins in lysosomes, which are involved in cell apoptosis. Previous transcriptome analysis of optic glands ofSepiella japonicaacross four growth stages, expression of a cathepsin D-like segment was found to be significantly different. Based on the complete cDNA sequence ofS. japonica, the CTSD gene (also called sjCTSD, GenBank accession no.KY745896.1) was cloned using RACE amplification; this gene is 1389 bp in length and encodes proteins composed of 393 amino acids. Spatio-temporal expression profiles of the sjCTSD gene were determined using qPCR assays, which showed that the expression levels of sjCTSD constantly increased across four growth stages in 9 of 11 tissues that were investigated. In the optic glands, as well as pancreas and liver cells, sjCTSD expression levels sharply increased during the post-spawning phase. To investigate the potential role of the sjCTSD gene in aging progress, we constructed the prokaryotic expression vector of pET28a/sjCTSD. After induced by IPTG, the recombinant protein sjCTSD was obtained in the form of inclusion bodies, with a molecular size of approximately 40.3 kDa, the inclusion body of sjCTSD can be converted to soluble protein through the denaturation and renaturation. The results of functional experiments showed that sjCTSD could degrade bovine hemoglobin under acidic conditions, and inhibit the growth ofEscherichia coliandVibrio alginolyticus, which was speculated that the increased expression of sjCTSD may help inhibit the invasion of pathogenic bacteria with the immune function of cuttlefish declines during the aging process. To a certain extent, these results indicated the potential functional role of the sjCTSD gene in the aging process ofS. japonica. This study provides insights to further understand the roles of lysosomal proteins on anti-aging effects inS. japonicaand other cephalopoda species.
Intrinsic elasticity of nucleosomes is encoded by histone variants and calibrated by their binding partners
Authors: Melters Daniël P. , Pitman Mary , Rakshit Tatini , Dimitriadis Emilios K , Bui Minh , Papoian Garegin A , Dalal Yamini
Published: August 2018

Histone variants fine-tune transcription, replication, DNA damage repair, and faithful chromosome segregation. Whether and how nucleosome variants encode unique mechanical properties to their cognate chromatin structures remains elusive. Here, using novelin silicoandin vitronanoindentation methods, extending toin vivodissections, we report that histone variant nucleosomes are intrinsically more elastic than their canonical counterparts. Furthermore, binding proteins which discriminate between histone variant nucleosomes suppress this innate elasticity and also compact chromatin. Interestingly, when we overexpress the binding proteinsin vivo, we also observe increased compaction of chromatin enriched for histone variant nucleosomes, correlating with diminished access. Together, these data suggest a plausible link between innate mechanical properties possessed by histone variant nucleosomes, the adaptability of chromatin statesin vivo, and the epigenetic plasticity of the underlying locus.

Significance

Nucleosomes are the base unit which organize eukaryotic genomes. Besides the canonical histone, histone variants create unique local chromatin domains that fine-tune transcription, replication, DNA damage repair, and faithful chromosome segregation. We developed computational and single-molecule nanoindentation tools to determine mechanical properties of histone variant nucleosomes. We found that the CENP-A nucleosome variant is more elastic than the canonical H3 nucleosome but becomes stiffer when bound to its partner CENP-C. In addition, CENP-C induces cross-array clustering, creating a chromatin state that less accessible. These data suggest that innate material properties of nucleosomes can influence the ultimate chromatin state, thereby influence biological outcomes.
Towards a common and semantic representation of e-portfolios
Authors: Rezgui Kalthoum , Mhiri Hédia , Ghédira Khaled
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Since the early 1980s, a paradigm shift, caused by the work undertaken in the field of cognitive psychology, has occurred. This shift is known as the move from teacher-centered instruction to learner-centered or learning-centered instruction, and emphasizes the importance of building new knowledge on previous ones, interacting with peers, making meaningful and reflective learning and being engaged in his own path to foster learning. This new vision of teaching has created a need for new learning and assessment instruments that are better adapted to these pedagogical realities. In this context, the electronic portfolio or e-portfolio is one of the most versatile and effective tools that have been proposed for this purpose. More specifically, the interest in e-portfolios has grown considerably with the emergence of the competency-based approach and portfolio-based competency assessments. The purpose of this paper is to describe a semantic-based representation of e-portfolios, defined on the basis of official e-portfolio standards and specifications. Moreover, a comparative study of several well-known e-portfolio solutions has been carried out based on different facets, such as functional features, technical and organizational features. The objective is to identify those features that are mostly supported by e-portfolio solution providers and accordingly to gain a fairly accurate idea of the common structure of e-portfolios. In addition, the authors take advantage of an already implemented ontological model describing competency-related characteristics of learners and learning objects and combine it with the e-portfolio ontology, with a view to support a more reliable and authentic competency assessment.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed e-portfolio ontology was built following the ontology development methodology Methontology (Fernandez et al., 1997). In addition, it was constructed using the Protégé ontology environment (Protégé, 2007) and was implemented in OWL (Web Ontology Language) (Antoniou and Harmelen, 2004).

Findings

The proposed e-portfolio ontology provides humans with a shared vocabulary that enables capturing the most important elements in e-portfolios and serves as the basis for the semantic interoperability for machines.

Originality/value

The main advantage of the e-portfolio ontology lies in its ability to provide a common and semantically enriched representation of e-portfolio artifacts, thus facilitating the interoperability and exchange of competency evidences between different learning systems and platforms. In addition, capturing the semantics of e-portfolios helps to make them utilizable by intelligent applications.
Intellectual disability in Irish prisoners: systematic review of prevalence
Authors: Gulati Gautam , Murphy Valerie , Clarke Ana , Delcellier Kristin , Meagher David , Kennedy Harry , Fistein Elizabeth , Bogue John , Dunne Colum P.
Published: August 2018

Purpose

While individuals with an intellectual disability form a significant minority in the worldwide prison population, their healthcare needs require specialist attention. In Ireland, services for prisoners with intellectual disabilities need development. However, there is little substantive data estimating the prevalence of intellectual disabilities within the Irish prison system. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors systematically review published data relating to the prevalence of intellectual disabilities in prisons in the Republic of Ireland. The authors searched four databases, governmental websites and corresponded with experts.

Findings

Little published data were elicited from searches except for one nationwide cross-sectional survey which reflected a higher prevalence than reported in international studies. Studies from forensic mental health populations are narrated to contextualise findings.

Originality/value

This study found that there is little data to accurately estimate the prevalence of intellectual disabilities in the Irish prison system and the limited data available suggests that this is likely to be higher than international estimates. The authors highlight the need for further research to accurately estimate prevalence in this jurisdiction, alongside the need to develop screening and care pathways for prisoners with an intellectual disability.
Energy production, carbon emissions and economic growth in lower-middle income countries
Authors: Danlami Abubakar Hamid , Aliyu Sirajo , Danmaraya Ismail Aliyu
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The persistent rise in the global discharges of carbon (CO2) emissions and the likely undesirable consequences of this practice on the global atmosphere attracts the attention of policy makers and researchers to argue on the causes and perpetrators of CO2 emissions at international level. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between economic growth, energy production, capital formation, foreign direct investment (FDI) and CO2 emissions in the LMI and Middle East and North African (MENA) countries for the period 1980–2011.

Design/methodology/approach

Two separate autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) models were estimated for both the LMI and MENA countries, for the period 1980–2011. Furthermore, a fully modified OLS (FMOLS) was estimated for the two regions over the same period.

Findings

The results indicated that for the lower-middle income countries, there is a positive significant relationship between energy production and CO2 emissions. In the long run while in the short run, FDI and EGP are positively related to CO2 emissions while gross capital formation (GCF) has a negative impact on the CO2 emissions in the short run over the same period. Similarly, for the MENA countries, there is a positive relationship between EGP, GCF and CO2 emissions in both the short run and the long run. Furthermore, the estimated group mean FMOLS indicated that apart from GDP, all other variables have significant positive impact on CO2 emissions.

Research limitations/implications

The study covers only the period 1980–2011. This was because of limited available data during the study.

Practical implications

The study recommended the adoption of green technology by FDI firms and also in the process of energy production such as in crude oil production.

Originality/value

The study carried out a complex analysis where simultaneously all the countries of LMI and MENA regions where considered. Furthermore, separate analysis where conducted for each of the LMI and MENA regions using ARDL model. Variable representing energy production was included in the analysis which was not considered by previous studies. Lastly, FMOLS was estimated for the pooled of LMI and MENA countries which further distinguished the study from the relevant previous studies.
Board structure and corporate disclosure via social media: an empirical study in the UK
Authors: Basuony Mohamed A.K. , Mohamed Ehab K.A. , Samaha Khaled
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of board structure on voluntary corporate disclosure via social media among the top 150 companies listed on the London Stock Exchange.

Design/methodology/approach

A disclosure index comprising of a set of items that encompass two facets of disclosure, namely corporate disclosure via social networks and social media sites, is developed and used. Binary logistic regression is used to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The results of this study reveal the underlying relations between board composition and control variables as the determining factors of corporate disclosure, i.e. board size, board activism, board independence and board diversity (gender and ethnicity). The gender of the board can affect the corporate disclosure via a social network. The results of this study indicate that an increase in the number of female in the board members leads to higher corporate disclosure using social network. Moreover, firm size has a positive effect on corporate disclosure indicating that large firms tend to disclose more information on their websites and social networks.

Practical implications

The paper provides new insights into the role played by the non-executive female directors in monitoring and controlling managerial processes related to corporate disclosure using social media.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper that examines the role of board structure in monitoring and controlling management decisions and managerial processes in the area of corporate disclosure via social media.
How does gender swapping impact online gamer loyalty? The perspective of interdependence theory
Authors: Tseng Fan-Chen , Chang Ching-Ter , Lee Hsing-Chen , Teng Ching-I
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Gender swapping – when gamers choose avatars of the opposite gender to their own – is a common feature of online gaming behavior, and recent studies have explored the reasons for it. However, no study has yet examined the role gender swapping plays in determining gamers’ continual engagement with communication via online games, i.e., online gamer loyalty. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to examine this issue and develop hypotheses based on interdependence theory in the online gaming context.

Design/methodology/approach

Responses from a survey of 255 online gamers were used for the analysis.

Findings

Analytical results using structural equation modeling indicate that gender-swapping behavior is negatively related to social intelligence, which in turn is negatively related to network convergence (the extent of sharing a common social circle), thus contributing to relational switching costs and online gamer loyalty.

Originality/value

This study is the first to examine how gender swapping affects online gamer loyalty.
Impact of coexistent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on the survival of patients with small cell lung cancer receiving chemotherapy
Authors: Ju Sunmi , Lee Hyang Rae , Kim Ju‐Young , Kim Ho Cheol , Lee Gyeong‐Won , You Jung Wan , Cho Yu Ji , Jeong Yi Yeong , Lee Jong Deog , Lee Seung Jun
Published: August 2018

Background

While there is growing interest in the correlation between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and non‐small cell lung cancer, very few studies have examined the interaction between COPD and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the impact of COPD on the survival of patients with SCLC.

Methods

The medical records of 110 patients with SCLC who received chemotherapy from July 2006 until April 2014 were retrospectively examined. The overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) rates of spirometry‐diagnosed COPD and non‐COPD groups were compared. Predictors for poorer survival were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

Of the 110 SCLC patients, 57 (51.8%) had coexistent COPD. The median OS for the COPD group was 11.6 months and for the non‐COPD group was 11.2 months (log‐rank test, P = 0.581), whereas the median PFS rates were 6.65 and 6.57 months, respectively (log‐rank test, P = 0.559). Multivariate analysis identified Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥ 2 and extensive‐stage SCLC as independent risk factors for shorter OS; however, coexisting COPD was not a predictor of survival.

Conclusions

Although over half of the SCLC patients receiving chemotherapy had COPD, coexisting COPD had no impact on the survival of patients with SCLC.
Influence of early adalimumab serum levels on immunogenicity and long‐term outcome of anti‐TNF naive Crohn's disease patients: the usefulness of rapid testing
Authors: Verstockt Bram , Moors Gitte , Bian Sumin , Van Stappen Thomas , Van Assche Gert , Vermeire Séverine , Gils Ann , Ferrante Marc
Published: August 2018

Background

Proactive testing of adalimumab serum levels is debated.

Aim

To study the association between adalimumab serum levels at week 4 and the development of anti‐adalimumab drug antibodies and long‐term outcome in anti‐TNF naive Crohn's disease patients.

Methods

Serum samples from 116 biologically naive Crohn's disease patients with active disease were prospectively collected at baseline, and weeks 4 and 12. Adalimumab serum levels were measured using the RIDA®QUICK adalimumab lateral flow assay and anti‐adalimumab drug antibodies were determined using a drug‐resistant assay. Pharmacokinetic data were studied in relation to clinical outcome. Patients who stopped adalimumab by week 12 due to persisting symptoms were considered primary non‐responders, whereas initial improvement with increasing symptoms after week 12 was considered loss of response. Adalimumab continuation until the end of follow‐up was considered sustained clinical benefit.

Results

Patients with low serum levels at week 4 (<8.3 μg/mL) were at significantly higher risk of being anti‐adalimumab positive by week 12 (46.7% vs 13.0%, P = 0.009). After a median follow‐up of 89 weeks, dose‐escalation and sustained clinical benefit were observed in 37.1% and 48.3% of patients. The 21.4% of patients who were anti‐adalimumab drug antibody positive by week 12, had a significantly higher need of dose escalation (P < 0.001), and experienced sustained clinical benefit less frequently due to primary non‐response or secondary loss of response (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Our findings support early monitoring of adalimumab serum levels to guide dose optimisation, which may prevent immunogenicity and influence long‐term outcome. We validated a novel lateral flow assay for quantitative determination of adalimumab levels, facilitating physicians to optimise therapy immediately at the outpatient clinic.
Compound Words Reflect Cross‐Culturally Shared Bodily Metaphors
Authors: Holmes Kevin J. , Flusberg Stephen J. , Thibodeau Paul H.
Published: August 2018

Parts of the body are often embedded in the structure of compound words, such asheartbreakandbrainchild. We explored the relationships between the semantics of compounds and their constituent body parts, asking whether these relationships are largely arbitrary or instead reflect deeper metaphorical mappings shared across languages and cultures. In three studies, we found that U.S. English speakers associated the English translation equivalents of Chinese compounds with their constituent body parts at rates well above chance, even for compounds with highly abstract meanings and even when accounting for the semantic relatedness of the compounds and body parts. English speakers in India and Chinese speakers in Hong Kong showed similar intuitions about these associations. Our results suggest that the structure of compound words can provide insight into cross‐culturally shared ways of connecting meaning to the body.
Zebrafish as a model for studying functional pancreatic β cells development and regeneration
Authors: Matsuda Hiroki
Published: August 2018

Pancreatic β cells produce insulin and play a central role in glucose homeostasis. The regenerative capacity of mammalian β cells is limited, so that loss and dysfunction of β cells causes diabetes. Zebrafish have a pancreas which is functionally and morphologically conserved with human pancreas. Zebrafish have high regenerative capacity of islets. In the present review, development of zebrafish pancreas was described in comparison to that of mammals, and the regenerative process of zebrafish pancreas was also described. This review will give information on understanding islet and pancreatic β cell development and regeneration and provide possibilities of zebrafish research for developing new diabetic therapies and regenerative medicines.
Individualization process of the standardized care plan in acute care hospitalization units: Study protocol
Authors: Castellà‐Creus Mònica , Delgado‐Hito Pilar , Andrés‐Martínez Isabel , Juvé‐Udina Maria‐Eulàlia
Published: August 2018

Aim

To understand the individualization process of the standardized care plan (SCP) that nurses design for hospitalized patients.

Background

To apply the nursing process, it is advisable to use SCP to standardize the diagnosis, planning and evaluation stages. However, the fundamental element of this methodology is the individualization of the care plan.

Design

A qualitative study, framed within the constructivist paradigm and applying the Grounded Theory method, in accordance with Strauss and Corbin's approach.

Methods

Multicentre study. Theoretical sampling with maximum variation will be used. The data collection will consist of: in‐depth individual interviews, participant observation, document analysis, focus group, and the questionnaires for Critical Thinking Assessment in relation to clinical practice and Nursing Competency Assessment for hospital nurses. The qualitative data will be analysed according to the constant comparative method of Strauss and Corbin's Grounded Theory, which involves performing open, axial and selective coding. The questionnaire results will be used to make a qualitative analysis that will consist of a triangulation between the level of critical thinking, level of expertise and record of the individualization process performed by the nurses. This protocol was approved in July 2015.

Discussion

By knowing the possible stages used in the individualization of a SCP, together with the elements that facilitate or hinder said individualization and nurses’ attitudes and experiences regarding this phenomenon, it could help direct improvement strategies in the standardization and individualization process. In addition to recommendations for teaching and research.
A cross‐sectional study of show English bulldogs in the United States: evaluating paw lesions, cytological findings, pruritic behaviours and gastrointestinal signs
Authors: Webb Milum Alicia N. , Griffin Craig E. , Blessing Kacie S.
Published: August 2018

Background

English bulldogs (EBDs) are considered to commonly show signs of pododermatitis and gastrointestinal (GI) disease.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To describe a population of presumed healthy EBDs: (i) evaluate dogs according to published criteria for health, (ii) describe paw lesions, if present, (iii) report pruritic behaviours and GI signs and compare to normal values, (iv) report pedal cytological findings, and (v) determine correlation between lesions, cytological results and pruritic behaviours.

Animals

Thirty four EBDs participating in a dog show.

Methods and materials

Dogs were examined, and pedal cytological samples were collected. Pruritic behaviours, GI signs and medical history were assessed. Owners completed questionnaires regarding history and assessed pruritus.

Results

No dog met criteria for being healthy. All dogs had an abnormal dermatological examination, 22 of 34 had a history of recent drug administration and 16 of 34 had a history of dermatological disease. Every dog had at least one erythematous paw. Compared to values for a healthy dog population, facial rubbing was the only increased pruritic behaviour, and GI signs differed in belching, flatulence and regurgitation. Mean cytological evaluation values were within normal ranges except for inflammation. Lesions did not correlate with cytological findings or pruritic behaviours, with the exception of white coloured exudation with inflammation and cocci.

Conclusions and clinical importance

This study supports that show EBDs have frequent pedal lesions and history of dermatological disease, with over half receiving medication, as well as increased frequency of belching, flatulence and facial rubbing. Pedal cytological findings were not predictive of lesions, with the exception of white coloured exudation.
Optical coherence tomography and molecular analysis of sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) eyes suggests the immune‐mediated nature of retinal damage
Authors: Grozdanic Sinisa D. , Lazic Tatjana , Kecova Helga , Mohan Kabhilan , Kuehn Markus H.
Published: August 2018

Objective

To perform detailed analysis of retinal changes in dogs withSARDSusing optical coherence tomography (OCT), funduscopy, and molecular analysis.

Animals

Subjects were 29 dogs from 12USstates and Canada diagnosed withSARDSby 8 ophthalmologists. An additional 7 eyes from 5 deceasedSARDSdogs were used for molecular and histological analysis.

Procedures

Dogs were evaluated using chromatic pupil light reflex testing (cPLR), and electroretinography (ERG); subjects underwent complete ophthalmic examination, including funduscopy, retinal photography, andOCT, in addition to complete laboratory analysis, blood pressure evaluation, abdominal and thoracic radiographs, and computerized tomography (CT) imaging to assess possible systemic abnormalities. Histology and immunohistochemistry analysis was performed in 2SARDSeyes. Microarray analysis was performed in 5SARDSretinas.

Results

Thirty‐eight percent of patients had <1‐mm wide retinal detachments (RD) onOCTanalysis, which could not be detected by funduscopy or retinal photographs. Systemic hypertension did not seem to be a contributing factor (RD22.2%;ND20%, Odds ratio = 1.1). No dogs showed neoplastic changes by thoracic or abdominal radiography, orCTimaging. There was no statistically significant difference in age (RD7.9 ± 1.9 years (mean ±SD);ND7.6 ± 1.7 years,p = 0.69) or duration of blindness prior to presentation (RD18 ± 7 days (mean±SD);ND21 ± 12 days,p = 0.28). Microarray and histology analysis ofSARDSeyes revealed molecular changes suggestive of immune‐mediated damage.

Conclusions

Observed histological, molecular, andOCTchanges are highly suggestive of immune‐mediated damage inSARDSeyes.
MicroPulse™transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in the treatment of canine glaucoma: Preliminary results (12 dogs)
Authors: Sebbag Lionel , Allbaugh Rachel A , Strauss Rachel A , Strong Travis D , Wehrman Rita F , Foote Braidee C , Ben‐Shlomo Gil
Published: August 2018

Objective

To describe the clinical application and effect of MicroPulse™ transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP‐TSCPC) in dogs with glaucoma.

Animals studied

Twelve dogs with primary (n = 8) or secondary (n = 4) glaucoma, aged 2‐13 years (mean ±SD, 7.2 ± 3.8 years).

Procedures

MP‐TSCPCwas performed under sedation or general anesthesia. Laser duty cycle was 31.3%, laser power varied from 2000‐2800mW, and each hemisphere was treated for 90‐180 seconds. The probe was applied to each quadrant in a “sweeping motion,” sparing the 3 and 9 o'clock positions.

Results

The number ofMP‐TSCPCprocedures per eye varied from 1 to 3 (1.4 ± 0.7). Intraocular pressure (IOP) was controlled (<25 mm Hg) in 11/12 dogs (92%) within 1‐15 days post‐operatively. TheIOPcontrol at 1 month and the duration between repeated procedures were significantly greater in eyes treated with high energy laser (2800mW) compared to 2000‐2500mW. Long‐term follow‐up (315.3 ± 100.7 days) showed controlledIOPin 5/12 (42%) and vision retention in 4/8 (50%) dogs. In unsuccessful cases, loss ofIOPcontrol or vision loss occurred within 3‐245 days (109.1 ± 93.7 days) and 28‐261 days (114 ± 101.6 days), respectively, resulting in a salvage procedure in 6 dogs. Complications were as follows: corneal hypoesthesia (92%), anterior uveitis (67%), post‐operative ocular hypertension (50%), neurotrophic corneal ulcer (25%), keratoconjunctivitis sicca (8%), and rubeosis iridis (8%).

Conclusions

MP‐TSCPCis a viable tool for managing canine glaucoma, although further studies are required to improve the long‐term effect and reduce the complication rate.
The use of sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles for contrast‐enhanced ocular ultrasonography of the pecten oculi in birds
Authors: Ferreira Thiago Alegre Coelho , Fornazari Gabrielle , Saldanha André , Lunardeli Bruno , Moore Bret A. , Montiani‐Ferreira Fabiano
Published: August 2018

Background

The pecten oculi is a vascular and pigmented structure localized within the posterior segment of all avian eyes. Its primary function is not fully understood yet.

Objective

As ultrasonography (US) is a useful imaging modality for evaluation of the pecten oculi, the objective of this study was to investigate the utility of an intravenous contrast solution of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) microbubbles as a means of enhancing visualization of the pecten oculi in normal birds.

Animals studied

Ten adult individuals of the following avian species were evaluated: 1 roadside hawk (Rupornis magnirostris), 1 stygian owl (Asio stygius), 2 striped owls (Asio clamator), 2 burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia), 2 ring‐necked parakeet (Psittacula krameri), and 2 domestic chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus).

Procedure(s)

After baseline ocular sonograms were obtained in sedated animals, 4.5 μg/kg of a contrast solution containing SF6 microbubbles was administered intravenously and US of the right eye was immediately performed. US was continued during injection to provide real‐time imaging of the pecten oculi during vascular perfusion of contrast material. Results: Within 2‐3 seconds following intravenous contrast administration, microbubbles reached the pecten oculi of all birds investigated and provided significant ultrasonographic contrast enhancement.

Conclusions

SF6 microbubble contrast ultrasonography in birds is a safe and easy procedure that provides increased contrast and enhanced visualization of the pecten oculi. Future use may enable further discovery of its physiologic functions and aid in the development of therapeutic plans for avian intraocular disease.
Brief periods of inactivity reduce leg microvascular, but not macrovascular, function in healthy young men
Authors: Vranish Jennifer R. , Young Benjamin E. , Stephens Brandi Y. , Kaur Jasdeep , Padilla Jaume , Fadel Paul J.
Published: August 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

We aimed to examine leg vascular responses to brief periods of inactivity.

What is the main finding and its importance?

We demonstrate that a mere 10 min of sitting is sufficient to impair leg microvascular function (reactive hyperaemia). However, conduit artery vasodilatation (flow‐mediated dilatation) was unaffected, indicating maintained macrovascular function. Interestingly, immobile supine rest also resulted in a reduction in microvascular function alone that was prevented when calf muscle contractions were performed. Collectively, these data highlight the susceptibility of the microcirculation to short periods of inactivity and the beneficial role of skeletal muscle contraction for vascular health.

Prolonged sitting for 1–6 h has been shown to impair leg macrovascular [i.e. reduced flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD)] and microvascular (i.e. reduced reactive hyperaemia) function. These impairments appear to be mediated through reductions in shear stress. Interestingly, a reduction in shear rate has been observed as early as 10 min into sitting. However, it is unknown whether this acute reduction in shear stress is sufficient to affect vascular function. Accordingly, we studied 18 young men and assessed popliteal artery FMD and reactive hyperaemia before (Baseline) and after (PostSit) a 10 min sitting period. Popliteal artery shear rate was significantly reduced during sitting (Baseline, 62 ± 35 s−1; 10 min sitting, 27 ± 13 s−1; P < 0.001). Macrovascular function was unaffected by 10 min of sitting (Baseline, 4.4 ± 2.1%; PostSit, 4.3 ± 2.3%; P = 0.97), but microvascular function was reduced (Baseline, 4852 ± 2261 a.u.; PostSit, 3522 ± 1872 a.u.; P = 0.02). In a subset of individuals, we extended the recovery period after sitting and demonstrated that resting shear rate and reactive hyperaemia responses remained low up to 1 h post‐sitting (P < 0.001), whereas FMD was unchanged throughout (P = 0.99). Additionally, time control experiments were performed with participants in an immobile supine position, which demonstrated no change in macrovascular function (P = 0.94) but, unexpectedly, a reduction in microvascular function (P = 0.008). Importantly, when calf muscle contractions were performed during supine rest, reactive hyperaemia responses were maintained (P = 0.76), along with FMD (P = 0.88). These findings suggest that the leg microcirculation might be more vulnerable to short periods of inactivity, whereas conduit artery vasodilatation appears well maintained. Moreover, intermittent skeletal muscle contractions are beneficial for microvascular function.
The dispersion formula and the Green's function associated with an attenuation obeying a frequency power law
Authors: Buckingham Michael J.
Published: August 2018

An attenuation obeying a frequency power law scales as |ω|β, where ω is angular frequency and β is a real constant. A recently developed dispersion formula predicts that the exponent β can take only certain values in well defined, disjoint intervals. It is shown here that these admissible values of β are consistent with the physical requirement, stemming from the second law of thermodynamics, that the work done during the passage of a wave must always be positive. Since the dispersion formula, which is derived from the strain-hardening wave equation, is a causal transform, it is expected that the associated Green's function should also satisfy causality for all the permitted values of β. Such is not the case, however: the Green's function is maximally flat at the time of source activation, and hence is causal, but only for values of β in the interval (0.5, 1). This restriction supersedes the weaker constraints on β derived from the dispersion formula alone. For the previously admissible values of β outside the interval (0.5, 1), although the dispersion formula satisfies causality, the Green's function is non-causal. Evidently, causality may be satisfied by the dispersion formula but violated by the Green's function.
Social robots for education: A review
Authors: Belpaeme Tony , Kennedy James , Ramachandran Aditi , Scassellati Brian , Tanaka Fumihide
Published: August 2018

A review of social robots in education discusses expected outcomes, technical challenges, and directions for future research.
Designer platelets pump up PD-1 blockade
Authors: Shen Keyue
Published: August 2018

Genetically engineered platelets promote eradication of residual tumor by immune cells after surgery in mice.
Quantum mechanics on (anti)-de Sitter background II: Ramsauer–Townsend effect and WKB method
Authors: Chung Won Sang , Hassanabadi Hassan
Published: August 2018

Based on the one-dimensional quantum mechanics on (anti)-de Sitter background [W. S. Chung and H. Hassanabadi, Mod. Phys. Lett. A 32, 26 (2107)], we discuss the Ramsauer–Townsend effect. We also formulate the WKB method for the quantum mechanics on (anti)-de Sitter background to discuss the energy level of the quantum harmonic oscillator and quantum bouncer.
Integrating Networks, Phylogenomics, and Population Genomics for the Study of Polyploidy
Authors: Blischak Paul D. , Mabry Makenzie E. , Conant Gavin C. , Pires J. Chris
Published: August 2018

Duplication events are regarded as sources of evolutionary novelty, but our understanding of general trends for the long-term trajectory of additional genomic material is still lacking. Organisms with a history of whole genome duplication (WGD) offer a unique opportunity to study potential trends in the context of gene retention and/or loss, gene and network dosage, and changes in gene expression. In this review, we discuss the prevalence of polyploidy across the tree of life, followed by an overview of studies investigating genome evolution and gene expression. We then provide an overview of methods in network biology, phylogenomics, and population genomics that are critical for advancing our understanding of evolution post-WGD, highlighting the need for models that can accommodate polyploids. Finally, we close with a brief note on the importance of random processes in the evolution of polyploids with respect to neutral versus selective forces, ancestral polymorphisms, and the formation of autopolyploids versus allopolyploids.
Kidney injury molecule-1 identifies antemortem injury in postmortem adult and fetal kidney
Authors: Yin Wenqing , Zhang Ping L. , Macknis Jacqueline K. , Lin Fan , Bonventre Joseph V.
Published: August 2018

There is currently no technique to unambiguously diagnose antemortem kidney injury on postmortem examination since postmortem tissue damage and autolysis are common. We assessed the ability to detect kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) expression in adult and fetal kidneys examined at autopsy. In adult kidneys ( n = 52 subjects), we found that the intensity of KIM-1 staining significantly correlated with the antemortem level of serum creatinine, and this was independent of the extent of tissue autolysis. In addition, kidneys from a total of 52 fetal/neonatal subjects, 30 stillborns and 22 liveborns, were assessed for KIM-1 staining. Given that serum creatinine is unreliable and often unavailable in fetuses and newborns, we assessed preterminal hypoxia in fetuses by the presence of squames in pulmonary alveoli and by required intubation. KIM-1 expression correlated with these clinical indexes of hypoxia. The expression of KIM-1 was seen in a majority of the fetal and neonatal autopsy kidneys (77%, 40/52) as early as 16 wk of gestation, even in the presence of autolysis. Thus KIM-1 is a specific and stable marker of antemortem tubular injury in kidneys of adults and fetuses despite postmortem autolysis.
GLP-1 receptor agonists in diabetic kidney disease: from the patient-side to the bench-side
Authors: Dieter Brad P. , Alicic Radica Z. , Tuttle Katherine R.
Published: August 2018

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD), one of the most common and severe microvascular complications of diabetes, is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease and end-stage kidney disease worldwide. Since the development of renin-angiotensin system inhibition nearly three decades ago, no new therapeutic agents have received regulatory approval for treatment of DKD. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, a class of newer antihyperglycemic agents, have shown promise for prevention of DKD onset and progression. This perspective summarizes clinical and experimental observations to give insight into biological mechanisms beyond glycemic control, such as natriuresis and anti-inflammatory actions, for preservation of kidney function in patients with diabetes.
Vesicles bearing gifts: the functional importance of micro-RNA transfer in extracellular vesicles in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Abbasian Nima , Herbert Karl E. , Pawluczyk Izabella , Burton James O. , Bevington Alan
Published: August 2018

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including microparticles (MPs) and exosomes (EXOs), are derived from a wide range of mammalian cells including blood platelets, endothelial cells, and kidney cells and can be detected in body fluids including blood and urine. While EVs are well established as diagnostic markers under pathophysiological and stress conditions, there is also mounting evidence of their functional significance as vehicles for communication between cells mediated by the presence of nucleic acids, especially microRNAs (miRs), encapsulated in the EVs. miRs regulate gene expression, are transported both in MPs and EXOs, and exert profound effects in the kidney. Here we review current understanding of the links between EVs and miRs, discuss the importance of miRs in kidney disease, and shed light on the role of EVs in transferring miRs through the circulation among the renal, vascular, and inflammatory cell populations that are functionally important in patients with chronic kidney disease.
Defining the Rhythmogenic Elements of Mammalian Breathing
Authors: Ramirez Jan-Marino , Baertsch Nathan
Published: August 2018

Breathing’s remarkable ability to adapt to changes in metabolic, environmental, and behavioral demands stems from a complex integration of its rhythm-generating network within the wider nervous system. Yet, this integration complicates identification of its specific rhythmogenic elements. Based on principles learned from smaller rhythmic networks of invertebrates, we define criteria that identify rhythmogenic elements of the mammalian breathing network and discuss how they interact to produce robust, dynamic breathing.
Neuroimmune Communication in Health and Disease
Authors: Reardon Colin , Murray Kaitlin , Lomax Alan E.
Published: August 2018

The immune and nervous systems are tightly integrated, with each system capable of influencing the other to respond to infectious or inflammatory perturbations of homeostasis. Recent studies demonstrating the ability of neural stimulation to significantly reduce the severity of immunopathology and consequently reduce mortality have led to a resurgence in the field of neuroimmunology. Highlighting the tight integration of the nervous and immune systems, afferent neurons can be activated by a diverse range of substances from bacterial-derived products to cytokines released by host cells. While activation of vagal afferents by these substances dominates the literature, additional sensory neurons are responsive as well. It is becoming increasingly clear that although the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway has become the predominant model, a multitude of functional circuits exist through which neuronal messengers can influence immunological outcomes. These include pathways whereby efferent signaling occurs independent of the vagus nerve through sympathetic neurons. To receive input from the nervous system, immune cells including B and T cells, macrophages, and professional antigen presenting cells express specific neurotransmitter receptors that affect immune cell function. Specialized immune cell populations not only express neurotransmitter receptors, but express the enzymatic machinery required to produce neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine, allowing them to act as signaling intermediaries. Although elegant experiments have begun to decipher some of these interactions, integration of these molecules, cells, and anatomy into defined neuroimmune circuits in health and disease is in its infancy. This review describes these circuits and highlights continued challenges and opportunities for the field.
Rab GTPases in Osteoclastic Endomembrane Systems
Authors: Roy Michèle , Roux Sophie
Published: August 2018

Osteoclasts (OCs) are bone-resorbing cells that maintain bone homeostasis. OC differentiation, survival, and activity are regulated by numerous small GTPases, including those of the Rab family, which are involved in plasma membrane delivery and lysosomal and autophagic degradation pathways. In resorbing OCs, polarized vesicular trafficking pathways also result in formation of the ruffled membrane, the resorbing organelle, and in transcytosis.