bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DEVELOPMENT OF IN-SITU TEMPERATURE PREDICTION MODELS FROM CADAVERIC HUMAN FEMUR FOR BONE DRILLING
Authors: PANDITHEVAN PONNUSAMY , PANDY NATARAJAN VINAYAGA MURUGA , PALANIVEL CHINNUSAMY
Published: March 2018

Thermal osteonecrosis of bone in drilling procedure is caused by improper parameters which can lead to poor bone-implant integration and loss of fixation. In this study, Taguchi technique for parameter optimization and multiple regression models for temperature prediction were employed. The main aim of the study was to determine the optimal parameters of bone drilling to control the temperature rise below the thermal osteonecrosis threshold (47[Formula: see text]C) in respect of the bone density variations at different drilling directions. A 32 full factorial design with nine sets of parameters was used in the study. Drilling operations were performed along the longitudinal, radial and circumferential directions at the proximal-diaphysis, mid-diaphysis and distal-diaphysis regions of the 10 adult cadaveric femurs with different feed rates (40, 60 and 80[Formula: see text]mm/min) and spindle speeds (500, 1000 and 1500[Formula: see text]rpm) using 3.2[Formula: see text]mm diameter surgical drill bit. The in-situ drilling temperatures were measured with T-type thermocouple. The optimum drilling parameters for each drilling direction were determined from signal to noise ratios and the effect of each parameter was determined using analysis of variance. By using computed tomography scan data of patients, the proposed method is able to predict the temperature rise at the bone-drilling sites, optimal parameters and possibility for the occurrence of thermal osteonecrosis. This important tool could assist in reducing localized temperature induced from surgical drilling by up to 32% and 18[Formula: see text]C and as such significantly reduce associated osteonecrosis and improve patient outcome and quality of life.
A GPU-Accelerated TLSPH Algorithm for 3D Geometrical Nonlinear Structural Analysis
Authors: He Jiandong , Lei Juanmian
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we developed a GPU parallelized Total Lagrangian Formation of Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (TLSPH) algorithm for 3D geometrical nonlinear structure analysis. The code was developed using NVDIA CUDA C++. Both the TLSPH and GPU parallelization algorithms are described in detail. Compared to the traditional FEM method for structure analysis, TLSPH method is much easier to be implemented and parallelized. In addition, as a meshless based method, there is no need to mesh the domain for TLSPH method. Also, the computational cost of TLSPH is much lower than the Weakly Compressible Smoothed Particle (WCSPH) method. By introducing GPU acceleration, we have significantly improved the code performance. Two benchmark test cases for 3D geometrical nonlinear structure analysis are carried out. The simulation results are compared with analysis results and the data obtained by Abaqus, which is a popularly-used software for structure analysis based on FEM method. In order to show the efficiency of GPU parallelization, a serial code based on the same TLSPH method is also developed as a reference. Results show GPU parallelization accelerates the code obviously. In summary, the GPU parallelized TLSPH method shows the potential to become an alternative way to deal with 3D geometrical nonlinear structure analysis.
Transport-collapse scheme for heterogeneous scalar conservation laws
Authors: Mitrović Darko , Novak Andrej
Published: March 2018

We extend Brenier’s transport collapse scheme on the Cauchy problem for heterogeneous scalar conservation laws i.e. for the conservation laws with spacetime-dependent coefficients. The method is based on averaging out the solution to the corresponding kinetic equation, and it necessarily converges toward the entropy admissible solution. We also provide numerical examples.
Practicably efficient ethylbenzene oxidation catalyzed by manganese tetrakis(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin grafted to powdered chitosan
Authors: Huang Guan , Yan Chao , Cai Jing Li , Mo Lin Qiang , Zhao Shu Kai , Guo Yong An , Wei Su Juan , Shen Yan Ling
Published: March 2018

Manganese tetrakis(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin chloride was grafted onto powdered chitosan via an acid–base reaction and ligation. The grafted catalyst was characterized by transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectrometry and thermogravimetry. Ethylbenzene oxidation with O[Formula: see text] by the catalyst in the absence of additives and solvents can achieve moderate yields (approximately 30%) of acetophenone and phenethyl alcohol. The grafted catalyst can be reused four times for oxidation reactions. The results indicate that the catalytic activity of manganese tetrakis(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin chloride is promoted by the ligation and grafting function of the amino groups in the powdered chitosan.
Two classes of graphs in which some problems related to convexity are efficiently solvable
Authors: Moscarini Marina , Malvestuto Francesco M.
Published: March 2018

Monophonic, geodesic and 2-geodesic convexities ([Formula: see text]-convexity, [Formula: see text]-convexity and [Formula: see text]-convexity, for short) on graphs are based on the families of induced paths, shortest paths and shortest paths of length [Formula: see text], respectively. We introduce a class of graphs, the class of cross-cyclicgraphs, in which every connected [Formula: see text]-convex set is also [Formula: see text]-convex and [Formula: see text]-convex. We show that this class is properly contained in the class, say [Formula: see text], of graphs in which geodesic and monophonic convexities are equivalent and properly contains the class of distance-hereditary graphs. Moreover, we show that (1) an [Formula: see text]-hull set (i.e., a subset of vertices, with minimum cardinality, whose [Formula: see text]-convex hull equals the whole vertex set) and, hence, the m-hull number and the g-hull number of a graph in [Formula: see text] can be computed in polynomial time and that (2) both the geodesic-convex hull and the monophonic-convex hull can be computed in linear time in a cross-cyclic graph without cycles of length [Formula: see text] and, hence, in a bipartite distance-hereditary graph.
Engineered Ribosomes for Basic Science and Synthetic Biology
Authors: d'Aquino Anne E. , Kim Do Soon , Jewett Michael C.
Published: March 2018

The ribosome is the cell's factory for protein synthesis. With protein synthesis rates of up to 20 amino acids per second and at an accuracy of 99.99%, the extraordinary catalytic capacity of the bacterial translation machinery has attracted extensive efforts to engineer, reconstruct, and repurpose it for biochemical studies and novel functions. Despite these efforts, the potential for harnessing the translation apparatus to manufacture bio-based products beyond natural limits remains underexploited, and fundamental constraints on the chemistry that the ribosome's RNA-based active site can carry out are unknown. This review aims to cover the past and present advances in ribosome design and engineering to understand the fundamental biology of the ribosome to facilitate the construction of synthetic manufacturing machines. The prospects for the development of engineered, or designer, ribosomes for novel polymer synthesis are reviewed, future challenges are considered, and promising advances in a variety of applications are discussed.
Targeting pain at its source in sickle cell disease
Authors: Gupta Kanika , Jahagirdar Om , Gupta Kalpna
Published: March 2018

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder associated with hemolytic anemia, end-organ damage, reduced survival, and pain. One of the unique features of SCD is recurrent and unpredictable episodes of acute pain due to vasoocclusive crisis requiring hospitalization. Additionally, patients with SCD often develop chronic persistent pain. Currently, sickle cell pain is treated with opioids, an approach limited by adverse effects. Because pain can start at infancy and continue throughout life, preventing the genesis of pain may be relatively better than treating the pain once it has been evoked. Therefore, we provide insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of sickle cell pain that contribute to the activation of the somatosensory system in the peripheral and central nervous systems. These mechanisms include mast cell activation and neurogenic inflammation, peripheral nociceptor sensitization, maladaptation of spinal signals, central sensitization, and modulation of neural circuits in the brain. In this review, we describe potential preventive/therapeutic targets and their targeting with novel pharmacologic and/or integrative approaches to ameliorate sickle cell pain.
Decreased prefrontal oxygenation elicited by stimulation of limb mechanosensitive afferents during cycling exercise
Authors: Asahara Ryota , Matsukawa Kanji
Published: March 2018

Our laboratory reported using near-infrared spectroscopy that feedback from limb mechanoafferents may decrease prefrontal oxygenated-hemoglobin concentration (Oxy-Hb) during the late period of voluntary and passive cycling. To test the hypothesis that the decreased Oxy-Hb of the prefrontal cortex would be augmented depending on the extent of limb mechanoafferent input, the prefrontal Oxy-Hb response was measured during motor-driven one- and two-legged passive cycling for 1 min at various revolutions of pedal movement in 19 subjects. Furthermore, we examined whether calculated tissue oxygenation index (TOI) decreased during passive cycling as the Oxy-Hb did, simultaneously assessing blood flows of extracranial cutaneous tissue and the common and internal carotid arteries (CCA and ICA) with laser and ultrasound Doppler flowmetry. Minute ventilation and cardiac output increased and peripheral resistance decreased during passive cycling, depending on both revolutions of pedal movement and number of limbs, whereas mean arterial blood pressure did not change. Passive cycling did not change end-tidal CO2, suggesting absence of a hypocapnic change. Prefrontal Oxy-Hb decreased during passive cycling, being in proportion to revolution of pedal movement but not number of cycling limbs. In addition, prefrontal TOI decreased during passive cycling as Oxy-Hb did, whereas blood flows of forehead cutaneous tissue, CCA, and ICA did not change significantly. Thus, a decrease in Oxy-Hb reflected a decrease in tissue blood flow of the intracerebral vasculature but not the extracerebral compartment. It is likely that feedback from mechanoafferents decreased regional cerebral blood flow of the prefrontal cortex in relation to the revolutions of pedal movement.
Neurophysiological changes in the visuomotor network after practicing a motor task
Authors: Gehringer James E. , Arpin David J. , Heinrichs-Graham Elizabeth , Wilson Tony W. , Kurz Max J.
Published: March 2018

Although it is well appreciated that practicing a motor task updates the associated internal model, it is still unknown how the cortical oscillations linked with the motor action change with practice. The present study investigates the short-term changes (e.g., fast motor learning) in the α- and β-event-related desynchronizations (ERD) associated with the production of a motor action. To this end, we used magnetoencephalography to identify changes in the α- and β-ERD in healthy adults after participants practiced a novel isometric ankle plantarflexion target-matching task. After practicing, the participants matched the targets faster and had improved accuracy, faster force production, and a reduced amount of variability in the force output when trying to match the target. Parallel with the behavioral results, the strength of the β-ERD across the motor-planning and execution stages was reduced after practice in the sensorimotor and occipital cortexes. No pre/postpractice changes were found in the α-ERD during motor planning or execution. Together, these outcomes suggest that fast motor learning is associated with a decrease in β-ERD power. The decreased strength likely reflects a more refined motor plan, a reduction in neural resources needed to perform the task, and/or an enhancement of the processes that are involved in the visuomotor transformations that occur before the onset of the motor action. These results may augment the development of neurologically based practice strategies and/or lead to new practice strategies that increase motor learning.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We aimed to determine the effects of practice on the movement-related cortical oscillatory activity. Following practice, we found that the performance of the ankle plantarflexion target-matching task improved and the power of the β-oscillations decreased in the sensorimotor and occipital cortexes. These novel findings capture the β-oscillatory activity changes in the sensorimotor and occipital cortexes that are coupled with behavioral changes to demonstrate the effects of motor learning.
Visuomotor learning is dependent on direction-specific error saliency
Authors: Jiang Wanying , Yuan Xianzhi , Yin Cong , Wei Kunlin
Published: March 2018

People perceive better in cardinal directions compared with oblique ones. This directional effect, called oblique effect, has been documented in perception studies for a long time. However, typical motor studies do not differentiate learning in different directions. In this study we identify a significant directional effect in motor learning using visuomotor rotation paradigms. We find that adaptation to visual perturbations yields more savings when both initial learning and relearning are performed in cardinal directions than in oblique directions. We hypothesize that this directional effect arises from relatively higher error saliency in cardinal directions. Consistent with this hypothesis, we successfully increased savings in the oblique directions, which showed no saving effect before, by enhancing the error saliency with augmented visual feedback during learning. Our findings suggest that movement direction plays an important role in motor learning, especially when learning signals are direction specific. Our results also provide new insights about the role of motor errors in the formation and retrieval of motor memory and practical implications for promoting learning in motor rehabilitation and athletic training.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY People perceive better when the stimulus is in cardinal directions than in oblique directions. Whether a similar directional effect exists in motor learning is unknown. Using a motor learning paradigm, we show that people relearn to compensate for a previously encountered perturbation faster when they move in cardinal directions than when they move in oblique directions. Further experimentation supports that this motor directional effect likely results from better sensory saliency of motor errors in cardinal directions.
Proximal and distal modulation of neural activity by spatially confined optogenetic activation with an integrated high-density optoelectrode
Authors: Libbrecht Sarah , Hoffman Luis , Welkenhuysen Marleen , Van den Haute Chris , Baekelandt Veerle , Braeken Dries , Haesler Sebastian
Published: March 2018

Optogenetic manipulations are widely used for investigating the contribution of genetically identified cell types to behavior. Simultaneous electrophysiological recordings are less common, although they are critical for characterizing the specific impact of optogenetic manipulations on neural circuits in vivo. This is at least in part because combining photostimulation with large-scale electrophysiological recordings remains technically challenging, which also poses a limitation for performing extracellular identification experiments. Currently available interfaces that guide light of the appropriate wavelength into the brain combined with an electrophysiological modality suffer from various drawbacks such as a bulky size, low spatial resolution, heat dissipation, or photovoltaic artifacts. To address these challenges, we have designed and fabricated an integrated ultrathin neural interface with 12 optical outputs and 24 electrodes. We used the device to measure the effect of localized stimulation in the anterior olfactory cortex, a paleocortical structure involved in olfactory processing. Our experiments in adult mice demonstrate that because of its small dimensions, our novel tool causes far less tissue damage than commercially available devices. Moreover, optical stimulation and recording can be performed simultaneously, with no measurable electrical artifact during optical stimulation. Importantly, optical stimulation can be confined to small volumes with approximately single-cortical layer thickness. Finally, we find that even highly localized optical stimulation causes inhibition at more distant sites.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY In this study, we establish a novel tool for simultaneous extracellular recording and optogenetic photostimulation. Because the device is built using established microchip technology, it can be fabricated with high reproducibility and reliability. We further show that even very localized stimulation affects neural firing far beyond the stimulation site. This demonstrates the difficulty in predicting circuit-level effects of optogenetic manipulations and highlights the importance of closely monitoring neural activity in optogenetic experiments.
Gap encoding by parvalbumin-expressing interneurons in auditory cortex
Authors: Keller Clifford H. , Kaylegian Katherine , Wehr Michael
Published: March 2018

Synaptic inhibition shapes the temporal processing of sounds in auditory cortex, but the contribution of specific inhibitory cell types to temporal processing remains unclear. We recorded from parvalbumin-expressing (PV+) interneurons in auditory cortex to determine how they encode gaps in noise, a model of temporal processing more generally. We found that PV+ cells had stronger and more prevalent on-responses, off-responses, and postresponse suppression compared with presumed pyramidal cells. We summarize this pattern of differences as “deeper modulation” of gap responses in PV+ cells. Response latencies were also markedly faster for PV+ cells. We found a similar pattern of deeper modulation and faster latencies for responses to white noise bursts, suggesting that these are general properties of on- and off-responses in PV+ cells rather than specific features of gap encoding. These findings are consistent with a role for PV+ cells in providing dynamic gain control by pooling local activity.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We found that parvalbumin-expressing (PV+) interneurons in auditory cortex showed more deeply modulated responses to both gaps in noise and bursts of noise, suggesting that they are optimized for the rapid detection of stimulus transients.
Corneal Stability following Hyperopic LASIK with Advanced Laser Ablation Profiles Analyzed by a Light Propagation Study
Authors: Gharaibeh Almutez M. , Villanueva Asier , Mas David , Espinosa Julian , Alió Jorge L.
Published: March 2018

Purpose. To assess anterior corneal surface stability 12 months following hyperopic LASIK correction with a light propagation algorithm.Setting. Vissum Instituto Oftalmológico de Alicante, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Alicante, Spain.Methods. This retrospective consecutive observational study includes 37 eyes of 37 patients treated with 6th-generation excimer laser platform (Schwind Amaris). Hyperopic LASIK was performed in all of them by the same surgeon (JLA) and completed 12-month follow-up. Corneal topography was analyzed with a light propagation algorithm, to assess the stability of the corneal outcomes along one year of follow-up.Results. Between three and twelve months postoperatively, an objective corneal power (OCP) regression of 0.39 D and 0.41 D was found for 6 mm and 9 mm central corneal zone, respectively. Subjective outcomes at the end of the follow-up period were as follows: 65% of eyes had spherical equivalent within ±0.50 D. 70% of eyes had an uncorrected distance visual acuity 20/20 or better. 86% of eyes had the same or better corrected distance visual acuity. In terms of stability, 0.14 D of regression was found. No statistically significant differences were found for all the study parameters evaluated at different postoperative moments over the 12-month period.Conclusions. Light propagation analysis confirms corneal surface stability following modern hyperopic LASIK with a 6th-generation excimer laser technology over a 12-month period.
Use of Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy for the Evaluation of Performance of PEM Fuel Cells Based on Carbon Cloth Gas Diffusion Electrodes
Authors: Latorrata Saverio , Pelosato Renato , Gallo Stampino Paola , Cristiani Cinzia , Dotelli Giovanni
Published: March 2018

Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) have attracted great attention in the last two decades as valuable alternative energy generators because of their high efficiencies and low or null pollutant emissions. In the present work, two gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs) for PEMFCs were prepared by using an ink containing carbon-supported platinum in the catalytic phase which was sprayed onto a carbon cloth substrate. Two aerograph nozzles, with different sizes, were used. The prepared GDEs were assembled into a fuel cell lab prototype with commercial electrolyte and bipolar plates and tested alternately as anode and cathode. Polarization measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were performed on the running hydrogen-fed PEMFC from open circuit voltage to high current density. Experimental impedance spectra were fitted with an equivalent circuit model by using ZView software which allowed to get crucial parameters for the evaluation of fuel cell performance, such as ohmic resistance, charge transfer, and mass transfer resistance, whose trends have been studied as a function of the applied current density.
Mechanistic Modeling of Antibody–Drug Conjugate Internalization at the Cellular Level Reveals Inefficient Processing Steps
Authors: Durbin Kenneth R. , Phipps Colin , Liao Xiaoli
Published: March 2018

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADC) offer an avenue for specific drug delivery to target cells. Here, parameters with important roles in the cellular processing of ADCs were quantitatively measured for Ab033, an antibody against EGFR. In EGFR-overexpressing cancer cell lines, Ab033 internalized at rates of 0.047/min and 0.15/min for A431 and H441 cells, respectively. Once internalized, Ab033 either trafficked to the lysosome or was recycled; up to 45% of internalized Ab033 returned to the cell surface. Despite such recycling, intracellular accumulation of Ab033 continually increased over 24 hours. Ab033 was conjugated to form a dual toxin ADC containing both cleavable and non-cleavable linker-drug payloads for release rate comparisons. Intracellular concentrations of freed drug from cleavable linker were greater than from non-cleavable linker and exceeded 5 × 106 drug molecules per A431 cell after 24 hours. Compared with intracellular antibody accumulation, formation of released drug was delayed, likely due to the time needed for endo-lysosomal trafficking and subsequent linker/antibody proteolysis. Informed by the quantitative data, a cellular ADC model was constructed and used to summarize processing inefficiencies. Modeling simulations were conducted to determine parameter sensitivity on intracellular drug concentrations, with rates of EGFR internalization and recycling as well as ADC trafficking found to be the most sensitive toward final intracellular drug concentrations. Overall, this study shows Ab033 ADCs to be a viable strategy for delivery of cytotoxic drugs into tumor cells with subsequent modeling efforts able to highlight key processing steps to be improved for increased drug delivery. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(6); 1341–51. ©2018 AACR.
Itraconazole-Induced Inhibition on Human Esophageal Cancer Cell Growth Requires AMPK Activation
Authors: Chen Min-Bin , Liu Yuan-Yuan , Xing Zhao-Yu , Zhang Zhi-Qing , Jiang Qin , Lu Pei-Hua , Cao Cong
Published: March 2018

We here evaluated the antiesophageal cancer cell activity by the antifungal drug itraconazole. Our results show that μg/mL concentrations of itraconazole potently inhibited survival and proliferation of established (TE-1 and Eca-109) and primary human esophageal cancer cells. Itraconazole activated AMPK signaling, which was required for subsequent esophageal cancer cell death. Pharmacologic AMPK inhibition, AMPKα1 shRNA, or dominant negative mutation (T172A) almost completely abolished itraconazole-induced cytotoxicity against esophageal cancer cells. Significantly, itraconazole induced AMPK-dependent autophagic cell death (but not apoptosis) in esophageal cancer cells. Furthermore, AMPK activation by itraconazole induced multiple receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs: EGFR, PDGFRα, and PDGFRβ), lysosomal translocation, and degradation to inhibit downstream Akt activation. In vivo, itraconazole oral gavage potently inhibited Eca-109 tumor growth in SCID mice. It was yet ineffective against AMPKα1 shRNA-expressing Eca-109 tumors. The in vivo growth of the primary human esophageal cancer cells was also significantly inhibited by itraconazole administration. AMPK activation, RTK degradation, and Akt inhibition were observed in itraconazole-treated tumors. Together, itraconazole inhibits esophageal cancer cell growth via activating AMPK signaling. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(6); 1229–39. ©2018 AACR.
Synthetic Lethality of PARP Inhibition and Ionizing Radiation is p53-dependent
Authors: Sizemore Steven T. , Mohammad Rahman , Sizemore Gina M. , Nowsheen Somaira , Yu Hao , Ostrowski Michael C. , Chakravarti Arnab , Xia Fen
Published: March 2018

PARP inhibitors (PARPi) are potentially effective therapeutic agents capable of inducing synthetic lethality in tumors with deficiencies in homologous recombination (HR)-mediated DNA repair such as those carrying BRCA1 mutations. However, BRCA mutations are rare, the majority of tumors are proficient in HR repair, and thus most tumors are resistant to PARPi. Previously, we observed that ionizing radiation (IR) initiates cytoplasmic translocation of BRCA1 leading to suppression of HR-mediated DNA repair and induction of synthetic PARPi lethality in wild-type BRCA1 and HR-proficient tumor cells. The tumor suppressor p53 was identified as a key factor that regulates DNA damage–induced BRCA1 cytoplasmic sequestration following IR. However, the role of p53 in IR-induced PARPi sensitization remains unclear. This study elucidates the role of p53 in IR-induced PARPi cytotoxicity in HR-proficient cancer cells and suggests p53 status may help define a patient population that might benefit from this treatment strategy. Sensitization to PARPi following IR was determined in vitro and in vivo utilizing human breast and glioma tumor cells carrying wild-type BRCA1 and p53, and in associated cells in which p53 function was modified by knockdown or mutation. In breast and glioma cells with proficient HR repair, IR-induced BRCA1 cytoplasmic sequestration, HR repair inhibition, and subsequent PARPi sensitization in vitro and in vivo was dependent upon functional p53.

Implications: Implications: p53 status determines PARP inhibitor sensitization by ionizing radiation in multiple BRCA1 and HR-proficient tumor types and may predict which patients are most likely to benefit from combination therapy. Mol Cancer Res; 16(7); 1092–102. ©2018 AACR.
Topical Corticosteroid-Resolved Rubeosis Iridis with Neovascular Glaucoma Caused by Noninfectious Granulomatous Uveitis
Authors: Sora Daisuke , Takayama Kei , Taguchi Manzo , Sato Tomohito , Sakurai Yutaka , Kanda Takayuki , Takeuchi Masaru
Published: March 2018

Purpose: We report a case of topical corticosteroid treatment-resolved rubeosis iridis with neovascular glaucoma (NVG) caused by noninfectious granulomatous uveitis. Case Report: A 61-year-old woman with left ocular pain and blurred vision was referred to our department. Visual acuity and intraocular pressure (IOP) were 20/60 and 37 mm Hg in the left eye, respectively. Inflammatory cells, hyphema, and rubeosis iridis were observed. All laboratory tests, including multiplex polymerase chain reaction for infection using aqueous humor, were negative, and there was neither retinal occlusive vasculitis nor retinal ischemia in the fundus. Our diagnosis was noninfectious granulomatous anterior uveitis-associated NVG. Topical corticosteroid treatment and anti-glaucoma agents resolved inflammation, rubeosis iridis, and NVG. IOP had decreased to 13 mm Hg by 1 month of treatment, and no recurrence was observed. Conclusion: Topical corticosteroid could resolve rubeosis iridis and NVG in an eye with noninfectious anterior uveitis. The pathogenesis of NVG in eyes with uveitis is still unknown, but inflammation might have a part in angiogenesis. Anti-inflammatory treatment can be selected as the first choice for anterior uveitis-associated NVG.
PKCε Increases Extracellular Elastin and Fibulin-5/DANCE in Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Nishizaki Tomoyuki
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: In the earlier study, the selective PKCε activator DCP-LA increased elastic fibres in the dermis of HR-1 hairless mice. As a process of elastic fibre formation, tropoelastin, an elastin monomer, is secreted into the extracellular space. Secreted tropoelastin is delivered to the microfibrils by fibulin-5/developmental arteries and neural crest epidermal growth factor-like (DANCE) and undergoes self-association. Then, tropoelastin assembles around the microfibrils, growing into elastin and elastic fibres by lysyl oxidase (LOX)- or LOX-like (LOXL)-mediated cross-linking. The present study was conducted to understand the mechanism underlying DCP-LA-induced increase in elastin/elastic fibre. Methods: Western blotting, immunocytochemistory, and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were carried out in cultured human dermal fibroblasts. PKCε, mammalian target of rapamycin complex (mTOR), and p70 S6 kinase (S6K) were knocked-down by transfecting each siRNA. Results: DCP-LA increased elastin and fibulin-5/DANCE in a treatment time (6-24 h)- and a bell-shaped concentration (1 nM-1 µM)-dependent manner in the culture medium of human dermal fibroblasts. DCP-LA markedly increased elastic fibres in the extracellular space of cultured fibroblasts. DCP-LA-induced increase in extracellular elastin and fibulin-5/DANCE was abolished by a PKC inhibitor or knocking-down PKCε. DCP-LA did not affect expression of mRNAs for tropoelastin and fiblin-5/DANCE in cultured fibroblasts. DCP-LA-induced increase in extracellular elastin and fibulin-5/DANCE was not inhibited by the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide or by knocking-down mTOR and S6K. DCP-LA never increased extracellular elastin in the presence of elastase, that breaks down elastin. An inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 9, that degrades multiple extracellular matrix components including elastin, had no effect on the basal levels and the DCP-LA-induced increase levels of extracellular elastin. Conclusion: The results of the present study indicate that PKCε, activated by DCP-LA, increases elastin and fibulin-5/DANCE in the extracellular space of cultured fibroblasts by the mechanism independent of transcriptional and translational modulation or inhibition of elastolysis.
Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase IV Mediates IFN-γ-Induced Immune Behaviors in Skeletal Muscle Cells
Authors: Gu RuiCai , Ding MaoChao , Shi DanDan , Huang Tao , Guo MengXia , Yu Lei , Hu JiJie , Huang WenHua , Liao Hua
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: Whether calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IV (CaMKIV) plays a role in regulating immunologic features of muscle cells in inflammatory environment, as it does for immune cells, remains mostly unknown. In this study, we investigated the influence of endogenous CaMKIV on the immunological characteristics of myoblasts and myotubes received IFN-γ stimulation. Methods: C2C12 and murine myogenic precursor cells (MPCs) were cultured and differentiated in vitro, in the presence of pro-inflammatory IFN-γ. CaMKIV shRNA lentivirus transfection was performed to knockdown CaMKIV gene in C2C12 cells. pEGFP-N1-CaMKIV plasmid was delivered into knockout cells for recovering intracellular CaMKIV gene level. CREB1 antagonist KG-501 was used to block CREB signal. qPCR, immunoblot analysis, or immunofluorescence was used to detect mRNA and protein levels of CaMKIV, immuno-molecules, or pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Co-stimulatory molecules expression was assessed by FACS analysis. Results: IFN-γ induces the expression or up-regulation of MHC-I/II and TLR3, and the up-regulation of CaMKIV level in muscle cells. In contrast, CaMKIV knockdown in myoblasts and myotubes leads to expression inhibition of the above immuno-molecules. As well, CaMKIV knockdown selectively inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines, and co-stimulatory molecules expression in IFN-γ treated myoblasts and myotubes. Finally, CaMKIV knockdown abolishes IFN-γ induced CREB pathway molecules accumulation in differentiated myotubes. Conclusions: CaMKIV can be induced to up-regulate in muscle cells under inflammatory condition, and positively mediates intrinsic immune behaviors of muscle cells triggered by IFN-γ.
Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Leak in Circulating B-Lymphocytes as a Biomarker in Heart Failure
Authors: Kushnir Alexander , Santulli Gaetano , Reiken Steven R. , Coromilas Ellie , Godfrey Sarah J. , Brunjes Danielle L. , Colombo Paolo C. , Yuzefpolskaya Melana , Sokol Seth I. , Kitsis Richard N. , Marks Andrew R.
Published: March 2018

Background:

Advances in congestive heart failure (CHF) management depend on biomarkers for monitoring disease progression and therapeutic response. During systole, intracellular Ca
2+
is released from the sarcoplasmic reticulum into the cytoplasm through type-2 ryanodine receptor/Ca
2+
release channels. In CHF, chronically elevated circulating catecholamine levels cause pathological remodeling of type-2 ryanodine receptor/Ca
2+
release channels resulting in diastolic sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
leak and decreased myocardial contractility. Similarly, skeletal muscle contraction requires sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
release through type-1 ryanodine receptors (RyR1), and chronically elevated catecholamine levels in CHF cause RyR1-mediated sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
leak, contributing to myopathy and weakness. Circulating B-lymphocytes express RyR1 and catecholamine-responsive signaling cascades, making them a potential surrogate for defects in intracellular Ca
2+
handling because of leaky RyR channels in CHF.

Methods:

Whole blood was collected from patients with CHF, CHF following left-ventricular assist device implant, and controls. Blood was also collected from mice with ischemic CHF, ischemic CHF+S107 (a drug that specifically reduces RyR channel Ca
2+
leak), and wild-type controls. Channel macromolecular complex was assessed by immunostaining RyR1 immunoprecipitated from lymphocyte-enriched preparations. RyR1 Ca
2+
leak was assessed using flow cytometry to measure Ca
2+
fluorescence in B-lymphocytes in the absence and presence of RyR1 agonists that empty RyR1 Ca
2+
stores within the endoplasmic reticulum.

Results:

Circulating B-lymphocytes from humans and mice with CHF exhibited remodeled RyR1 and decreased endoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
stores, consistent with chronic intracellular Ca
2+
leak. This Ca
2+
leak correlated with circulating catecholamine levels. The intracellular Ca
2+
leak was significantly reduced in mice treated with the Rycal S107. Patients with CHF treated with left-ventricular assist devices exhibited a heterogeneous response.

Conclusions:

In CHF, B-lymphocytes exhibit remodeled leaky RyR1 channels and decreased endoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
stores consistent with chronic intracellular Ca
2+
leak. RyR1-mediated Ca
2+
leak in B-lymphocytes assessed using flow cytometry provides a surrogate measure of intracellular Ca
2+
handling and systemic sympathetic burden, presenting a novel biomarker for monitoring response to pharmacological and mechanical CHF therapy.
The Rohingya Minority of Myanmar: Surveying Their Status and Protection in International Law
Authors: Alam Md Jobair
Published: March 2018

This article aims to critically examine the Rohingya minority crisis in international law. This includes international law of refugees, migrants, and stateless persons relating to their status and protection. A literature survey of the ‘Scopus’ and ‘Google Scholar’ databases was conducted to identify qualifying published studies. Based on the literature surveyed, this article argues that there is a conspicuous gap in the existing literature in properly addressing the Rohingya at least in terms of inscribing their status and protection. The article further contends that any crystallisation of the relevant theoretical framework of international law in this connection may be helpful in ascribing specific status, as well as protection apparatus for the Rohingya. In this respect, the article not only identifies the methodological limitations of the surveyed studies, but also offers recommendations for further survey.
Systematic account of new Porifera (Demospongiae) records from the oceanic Island of Madeira (NE Atlantic)
Authors: PESTANA ROSA , RIBEIRO CLÁUDIA , BOURY-ESNAULT NICOLE , BISCOITO MANUEL
Published: March 2018

Few surveys on benthic fauna have been performed on the island of Madeira (Alves et al. 2003 and references therein), and the first sponge specimens were collected opportunistically (Johnson 1863, 1899; Topsent 1904, 1928). Porifera can be considered one of the least studied phyla in the Madeira archipelago, within the Lusitanian province. This is not the case for other regions as the Mediterranean (Boury-Esnault 1971 and references therein), Alboran Sea (Carballo 1994), Canary Islands (Cruz 2002), and the Azores (Topsent 1904; Boury-Esnault & Lopes 1985; Xavier 2009), where sponges have been more thoroughly studied.
A new species of cave dwelling Neocarus (Acari: Opilioacaridae) from Bahia state, Brazil, with remarks on taxonomic characters
Authors: DE ARAÚJO MARCEL SANTOS , BICHUETTE MARIA ELINA , BAUCHAN GARY R. , OCHOA RONALD , FERES REINALDO JOSÉ FAZZIO
Published: March 2018

Neocarus coronatus n. sp., is described from caves and the surrounding epigean habitats from a karst area of São Desidério county, Bahia state, Brazil. A dissection procedure is presented for the better use of scarce Opilioacaridae material, especially to analyze gut contents. Sexual dimorphism is presented, mainly differences in the density of setae on the dorsal shield in the prominent triangular anterior region. Females have an ovipositor with 3 pairs of smooth digitiform projections and 6–8 eugenital setae. Adults have a palpal tibiotarsus with 4 d setae. Using Low-Temperature Scanning Electron Microscopy (LT-SEM), evaluation of the chaetotaxy (especially setal shape) and morphology are greatly improved over standard light microscopy techniques enhancing the interpretation of characters for species differentiation. Also, we discuss the fragility of microinvertebrates in cave habitats.
Anthomyiidae, Fanniidae and Muscidae (Diptera) from the Juan Fernández Archipelago (Chile): 60 years after Willi Hennig’s contributions
Authors: GOMES LUCAS R. P. , COURI MÁRCIA S. , DE CARVALHO CLAUDIO J. B.
Published: March 2018

Sixty years ago, Willi Hennig last catalogued the Anthomyiidae, Fanniidae and Muscidae fauna of the Juan Fernández Archipelago. This archipelago, composed of three main volcanic islands (Robinson Crusoe, Alejandro Selkirk and Santa Clara), has many endemic species. We describe Fannia hennigi sp. n. from the Robinson Crusoe Island, and record 11 species in 10 genera of Anthomyiidae, Fanniidae and Muscidae. A key to the identification of all species found in Juan Fernández Archipelago and a table with all species found in the Archipelago are presented, including four new records from Robinson Crusoe Island: Delia platura (Meigen, 1826); Fannia hennigi sp. n.; Lispoides insularis Hennig, 1957 and Schoenomyzina emdeni Hennig, 1955.
Langmuir Turbulence in Coastal Zones: Structure and Length Scales
Authors: Shrestha Kalyan , Anderson William , Kuehl Joseph
Published: March 2018

Langmuir turbulence is a boundary layer oceanographic phenomenon of the upper layer that is relevant to mixing and vertical transport capacity. It is a manifestation of imposed aerodynamic stresses and the aggregate horizontal velocity profile due to orbital wave motion (the so-called Stokes profile), resulting in streamwise-elongated, counterrotating cells. The majority of previous research on Langmuir turbulence has focused on the open ocean. Here, we investigate the characteristics of coastal Langmuir turbulence by solving the grid-filtered Craik–Leibovich equations where the distinction between open and coastal conditions is a product of additional bottom boundary layer shear. Studies are elucidated by visualizing Langmuir cell vortices using isosurfaces of Q. We show that different environmental forcing conditions control the length scales of coastal Langmuir cells. We have identified regimes where increasing the Stokes drift velocity and decreasing surface wind stress both act to change the horizontal size of coastal Langmuir cells. Furthermore, wavenumber is also responsible in setting the horizontal extent Ls of Langmuir cells. Along with that, wavenumber that is linked to the Stokes depth δs controls the vertical extent of small-scale vortices embedded within the upwelling limb, while the downwelling limb occupies the depth of the water column H for any coastal surface wave forcing (i.e., and ). Additional simulations are included to demonstrate insensitivity to the grid resolution and aspect ratio.
Response Errors in Surveys of Defensive Gun Use: A National Internet Survey Experiment
Authors: Kleck Gary
Published: March 2018

A national Internet survey of a probability sample of 5,550 U.S. adults was used to study possible sources of error in surveys of defensive gun use (DGU). Respondents (Rs) were randomly exposed to variant question wordings, question sequences, and combinations of questions. Rs were 70% more likely to report a victimization when they were instructed to report incidents involving offenders known to them, and 43% more likely to report a victimization if they were instructed to include incidents that resulted in no injury or property loss. Rs were 125% more likely to report DGUs if they were directly asked about DGU than if they were first asked about victimization experiences, then asked about DGU in connection with those experiences.
The Autonomy Paradox: How Night Work Undermines Subjective Well-Being of Internet-Based Freelancers
Authors: Shevchuk Andrey , Strebkov Denis , Davis Shannon N.
Published: March 2018

Nonstandard work schedules have important consequences for workers in the new economy. Using unique data on the work times of Internet-based freelancers, specifically, self-employed professionals participating in a Russian-language online labor market ( N = 4,280), the authors find that working at night has adverse effects on workers’ subjective well-being as measured by satisfaction with work–life balance, life satisfaction, and emotional exhaustion. Night work has differential effects on freelancers’ well-being based on gender, partnership status, and caregiving responsibilities. Highlighting the autonomy paradox, the authors’ findings document how freelancers’ discretionary application of a flexible schedule to work at night consequently undermines their well-being.
Block-level changes in the socio-spatial landscape in Beijing: Trends and processes
Authors: Liu Lun , Silva Elisabete A , Long Ying
Published: March 2018

Socio-spatial differentiation has been identified not only in capitalist market economies but also in transitional countries, including post-reform China. However, most prior studies on this topic in Chinese cities are limited to a spatial resolution of the sub-district level, and finer scale analyses remain scarce. Drawing on this gap, this article provides a block-level examination of the socio-spatial changes in the central city of Beijing by employing the Beijing Travel Survey data, which contain rich socio-economic information. Latent class analysis and GIS visualisation are used to stratify the residents into different levels of socio-economic well-being based on multiple attributes and analyse their spatial distribution. The findings reveal a dramatic transformation of the socio-spatial landscape in Beijing in only five years between 2005 and 2010; 90% blocks show a greater than 10% increase or decrease in the average social stratification index of their residents. The socio-spatial changes can to a large extent be related to the market reform of China’s economy and housing distribution, which exerts its influence through not only commercial developments but also profound interactions with the public sector.
Theology as a language for mission: on claiming incognito contributions from beyond the discipline
Authors: Nygard Mark L
Published: March 2018

Mission and theology are intimately related. This might not have seemed so obvious in the nineteenth century when practical considerations were paramount, but it was growing clearer in the twentieth as complex interactions among denominations and with other world religions required more careful reflection. David Bosch duly notes the trend, calling it “Mission as Theology,” the twelfth element of “An Emerging Ecumenical Missionary Paradigm” ( Transforming Mission, 489–498). The question is whether this trend has found its fulfillment. A certain narrowness of vision persists in missiological conversations, which risks neglecting mission-worthy insights from theologians and exegetes outside the field strictly defined. Unless theologians identify themselves publicly as missiologists or their subject matter as missiologically related, they risk not being noticed by the missiological community. Two examples of this will be noted in this article: systematic theologian Gerhard Forde who rarely talks overtly of mission but makes a passionate contribution towards its effective practice; and New Testament professor Roy Harrisville of modest experience in overseas mission who probes a worldview-rupturing effect of Christ pertinent to any interfaith dialogue. The need for a mechanism for the fulfillment of the trend Bosch noted will be argued, and some possibilities proposed.
Psychopathology of Stalking Offenders: Examining the Clinical, Demographic, and Stalking Characteristics of a Community-Based Sample
Authors: Nijdam-Jones Alicia , Rosenfeld Barry , Gerbrandij Jacomina , Quick Ellen , Galietta Michele
Published: March 2018

This study examined the correlates of stalking behavior and psychopathology among stalking offenders assessed using a rigorous diagnostic tool. A total of 137 stalking offenders were interviewed and diagnosed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I and Axis II Disorders. Analyses examined the extent to which stalking behaviors and offender characteristics differed across diagnostic groups. Study participants were African American (29%), Hispanic (28%), or Caucasian (28%), and had an average age of 36 years old ( SD = 11). The most common instant offenses were stalking/harassment (53%) and violation of an order of protection or criminal contempt (18%). Seventy-two percent met criteria for a clinical diagnosis, and there were high rates of comorbidity: psychotic disorder (10%), mood or anxiety disorder (31%), substance use disorder (46%), and personality disorder (50%). Over a quarter (28%) of the sample’s stalking behaviors occurred in the absence of psychopathology. Clinical implications and future research directions are discussed.