bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro membrane remodelling by ESCRT-II/ESCRT-III is regulated by negative feedback from membrane tension
Authors: Booth Andrew , Marklew Christopher J. , Ciani Barbara , Beales Paul A.
Published: October 2018

Artificial cells can shed new light on the molecular basis for life and hold potential for new chemical technologies. Inspired by how nature dynamically regulates its membrane compartments, we aim to repurpose the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) to generate complex membrane architectures as suitable scaffolds for artificial cells. Purified ESCRT-III components perform topological transformations on giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) to create complex “vesicles-within-a-vesicle” architectures resembling the compartmentalisation in eukaryotic cells. Thus far, the proposed mechanisms for this activity are based on how assembly and disassembly of ESCRT-III on the membrane drives deformation. Here we demonstrate the existence of a negative feedback mechanism from membrane mechanics that regulates ESCRT-III activity. ILV formation removes excess membrane area, increasing tension, which in turn suppresses downstream ILV formation. This mechanism for in vitro regulation of ESCRT-III activity may also have important implications for its in vivo functions.
The ataxin-1 interactome reveals direct connection with multiple disrupted nuclear transport pathways
Authors: Zhang Sunyuan , Williamson Nicholas A. , Jans David A. , Bogoyevitch Marie A.
Published: October 2018

The expanded polyglutamine (polyQ) tract form of ataxin-1 drives disease progression in spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1). Although polyQ-ataxin-1 is known to form distinctive intranuclear bodies, the cellular pathways and functions it influences remain poorly understood. Here, we identify direct and proximal partners constituting the interactome of ataxin-1[85Q] in Neuro-2a cells. Pathways analyses indicate a significant enrichment of essential nuclear transporters in the interactome, pointing to disruptions in nuclear transport processes in the presence of polyQ-ataxin-1. Our direct assessments of nuclear transporters and their cargoes reinforce these observations, revealing disrupted trafficking often with relocalisation of transporters and/or cargoes to ataxin-1[85Q] nuclear bodies. Strikingly, the nucleoporin Nup98, dependent on its GLFG repeats, is recruited into polyQ-ataxin-1 nuclear bodies. Our results highlight a disruption of multiple essential nuclear protein trafficking pathways by polyQataxin-1, a key contribution to furthering understanding of pathogenic mechanisms initiated by polyQ tract proteins.
Quantitative Analysis of a Transient Dynamics of a Gene Regulatory Network
Authors: Lee JaeJun , Lee Julian
Published: October 2018

In a stochastic process, noise often modifies the picture offered by the mean field dynamics. In particular, when there is an absorbing state, the noise erases a stable fixed point of the mean field equation from the stationary distribution, and turns it into a transient peak. We make a quantitative analysis of this effect for a simple genetic regulatory network with positive feedback, where the proteins become extinct in the presence of stochastic noise, contrary to the prediction of the deterministic rate equation that the protein number converges to a non-zero value. We show that the transient peak appears near the stable fixed point of the rate equation, and the extinction time diverges exponentially as the stochastic noise approaches zero. We also show how the baseline production from the inactive gene ameliorates the effect of the stochastic noise, and interpret the opposite effects of the noise and the baseline production in terms of the position shift of the unstable fixed point. The order of magnitude estimates using biological parameters suggest that for a real gene regulatory network, the stochastic noise is sufficiently small so that not only is the extinction time much larger than biologically relevant time-scales, but also the effect of the baseline production dominates over that of the stochastic noise, leading to the protection from the catastrophic rare event of protein extinction.
Kinetochore protein depletion underlies cytokinesis failure and somatic polyploidization in the mossPhyscomitrella patens
Authors: Kozgunova Elena , Nishina Momoko , Goshima Gohta
Published: October 2018

Lagging chromosome is a hallmark of aneuploidy arising from errors in the kinetochore–spindle attachment in animal cells. However, kinetochore components and cellular phenotypes associated with kinetochore dysfunction are much less explored in plants. Here, we carried out a comprehensive characterization of conserved kinetochore components in the mossPhyscomitrella patensand uncovered a distinct scenario in plant cells regarding both the localization and cellular impact of the kinetochore proteins. Most surprisingly, knock-down of several kinetochore proteins led to polyploidy, not aneuploidy, through cytokinesis failure in >90% of the cells that exhibited lagging chromosomes for several minutes or longer. The resultant cells, containing two or more nuclei, proceeded to the next cell cycle and eventually developed into polyploid plants. As lagging chromosomes have been observed in various plant species in the wild, our observation raised a possibility that they could be one of the natural pathways to polyploidy in plants.
Light-evoked activity and BDNF regulate mitochondrial dynamics and mitochondrial localized translation
Authors: Kreymerman Alex , Weinstein Jessica E. , Shah Sahil H. , Buickians David N. , Faust Anne , Van Der Merwe Yolandi , Nahmou Michael M. , Cho In-Jae , Huynh Star K. , Verma Sonya , Xin Xiao-Lu , Steketee Michael B. , Goldberg Jeffrey L.
Published: October 2018

Mitochondria coordinate diverse functions within neurites, including signaling events for axonal maintenance, and degeneration. However, less is known about the role of mitochondria in axon development and maturation. Here we find that in maturing retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in vivo, axonal mitochondria increase in size, number, and total area throughout development. We demonstrate through multiple approaches in vivo that the mechanism underlying these mitochondrial changes are dependent on eye opening and associated neuronal activity, which can be mimicked by brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). We report downstream gene and protein expression changes consistent with mitochondrial biogenesis and energetics pathways, and present evidence that the associated transcripts are localized and translated at mitochondria within axons in an activity-dependent manner. Together these data support a novel model for mitochondrial-localized translation in support of intra-axonal mitochondrial dynamics and axonal maturation.
Patient-derivedphosphoribosyl pyrophosphate synthetasemutations inDrosophilaresult in autophagy and lysosome dysfunction
Authors: Santos Keemo Delos , Yergeau Christine , Moon Nam-Sung
Published: October 2018

Phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate synthetase (PRPS) is a rate-limiting enzyme in nucleotide metabolism. While missense mutations ofPRPS1have been identified in neurological disorders such as Arts syndrome, little is known on how they contribute to pathogenesis. We engineeredDrosophila PRPS(dPRPS) alleles that carry patient-derived PRPS missense mutations. AlthoughdPRPSmutant flies develop normally, they have profound defects in autophagy induction and lysosome function. Consequently,dPRPSflies are sensitive to nutrient deprivation as they are unable to break down lipid storage by macroautophagy. In addition, we provide evidence showing thatdRPPSis required for proper cellular response to oxidative stress, providing a possible mechanism by which PRPS1 dysfunction contributes to neurological disorders.
Antiviral adaptive immunity and tolerance in the mosquito Aedes aegyti
Authors: Tassetto Michel , Kunitomi Mark , Whitfield Zachary J. , Dolan Patrick , Sánchez-Vargas Irma , Ribiero Isabel , Chen Taotao , Olson Ken E. , Andino Raul
Published: October 2018

Mosquitoes spread pathogenic arboviruses while themselves tolerate infection. We here characterize an immunity pathway providing long-term antiviral protection and define how this pathway discriminates between self and non-self. Mosquitoes use viral RNAs to create viral derived cDNAs (vDNAs) central to the antiviral response. vDNA molecules are acquired through a process of reverse-transcription and recombination directed by endogenous retrotransposons. These vDNAs are thought to integrate in the host genome as endogenous viral elements (EVEs). Sequencing of pre-integrated vDNA revealed that the acquisition process exquisitely distinguishes viral from host RNA, providing one layer of self-nonself discrimination. Importantly, we show EVE-derived piRNAs have antiviral activity and are loaded onto Piwi4 to inhibit virus replication. In a second layer of self-non-self discrimination, Piwi4 preferentially loads EVE-derived piRNAs, discriminating against transposon-targeting piRNAs. Our findings define a fundamental virus-specific immunity pathway in mosquitoes that uses EVEs as a potent and specific antiviral transgenerational mechanism.
The Novel Mnk1/2 Degrader VNLG-152 Potently Inhibits TNBC Tumor Growth and Metastasis
Authors: Ramalingam Senthilmurugan , Ramamurthy Vidya P. , Gediya Lalji K. , Murigi Francis N. , Purushottamachar Puranik , Huang Weiliang , Choi Eun Yong , Zhang Yuji , Vasaitis Tadas S. , Kane Maureen A. , Lapidus Rena G. , Njar Vincent C. O.
Published: October 2018

Currently, there are no effective therapies for patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), an aggressive and highly metastatic disease. Activation of eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) by mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-interacting kinases 1 and 2 (Mnk1/2) play a critical role in the development, progression and metastasis of TNBC. Herein, we undertook a comprehensive study to evaluate the activity of a first-in-class Mnk1/2 protein degraders, in clinically relevant models of TNBC. These studies enabled us to identify racemic VNLG-152R as the most efficacious Mnk1/2 degrader. By targeting Mnk1/2 protein degradation (activity), VNLG-152R potently inhibited both Mnk-eIF4E and mTORC1 signaling pathways and strongly regulated downstream factors involved in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines secretion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis. Most importantly, orally bioavailable VNLG-152R exhibited remarkable antitumor and antimetastatic activities against cell line and patient-derived TNBC xenograft models, with no apparent host toxicity. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that targeting Mnk-eIF4E/mTORC1 signaling with a potent Mnk1/2 degrader, VNLG-152R, is a novel therapeutic strategy that can be developed as monotherapy for effective treatment of patients with primary/metastatic TNBC.
To Overwrite or to Recall? Individual Differences in Motor Adaptation
Authors: Oh Youngmin , Schweighofer Nicolas
Published: October 2018

The central nervous system predicts the consequences of motor commands by leaning multiple internal models of external perturbations and of the body. It is not well understood, however, how new internal models are created. Here, we propose a novel computational model of motor adaptation in which a stochastic Bayesian decision-making process determines whether i) a previously updated expert perturbation model is recalled and updated, ii) a novice model is selected and is updated into a new expert, or iii) the “body” model is updated. Results from computer simulations provide insights into various and contradictory experimental data on savings and error-clamp, and predicts qualitative individual differences in adaptation. We verified these predictions in a visuomotor adaptation experiment in which we varied the perturbation amplitudes as well as the amount of noise added to perturbation, and added “trigger” trials in the error-clamp condition. Single trigger trials led to largely qualitatively different behavior and can therefore be used to probe individual differences in memory updates between “one-model” and “two-model” learners. “One-model” learners continuously update the body model, showing no savings during re-adaptation to the perturbation, and gradual decay during error clamp. In contrast, “two-model” learners switch between an updated expert model and the body model, showing large savings during re-adaptation and stochastic lags during error clamp. Our results thus support the view that motor adaptation belongs to the general class of human learning according to which new memories are created when no existing memories can account for discontinuities in sensory data.

Short summary/significance

When movements are followed by unexpected outcomes, such as following the introduction of a visuomotor or force field perturbation, or the sudden removal of such perturbations, it is unclear whether the central nervous system updates existing memories or creates new memories. Here, we propose a novel model of adaptation, and investigate, via simulation and behavioral experiments, how the amplitude and schedule of the perturbation, as well as the characteristics of the learner, lead to updates of existing memories or creation of new memories. Our results provide insights into a number of puzzling and contradictory experimental data on savings and error-clamp, as well as large qualitative individual differences in adaptation.
Crystal structure of 13-(E)-(2-aminobenzylidene)parthenolide
Authors: Bommagani Shobanbabu , Penthala Narsihma R. , Parkin Sean , Crooks Peter A.
Published: October 2018

The title compound, C21H25NO3[systematic name: (1aR,4E,7aS,8E,10aS,10bR)-8-(2-aminobenzylidene)-1a,5-dimethyl-2,3,6,7,7a,8,10a,10b-octahydrooxireno[2′,3′:9,10]cyclodeca[1,2-b]furan-9(1aH)-one], was synthesized by the reaction of parthenolide [systematic name (1aR,7aS,10aS,10bS,E)-1a,5-dimethyl-8-methylene-2,3,6,7,7a,8,10a,10b-octahydrooxireno[2′,3′:9,10]cyclodeca[1,2-b]furan-9(1aH)-one] with 2-iodoanilineviaHeck reaction conditions. The molecule is composed of fused ten-, five- (lactone), and three-membered (epoxide) rings. The lactone ring shows a flattened envelope-type conformation (r.m.s. deviation from planarity = 0.0477 Å), and bears a 2-aminobenzylidene substituent that is disordered over two conformations [occupancy factors 0.901 (4) and 0.099 (4)]. The ten-membered ring has an approximate chair–chair conformation. The dihedral angle between the 2-aminobenzylidine moiety (major component) and the lactone ring (mean plane) is 59.93 (7)°. There are no conventional hydrogen bonds, but there are a number of weaker C—H...O-type interactions.
Crystal structure of (E)-2,6-dimethoxy-4-{[(4-methoxyphenyl)imino]methyl}phenol
Authors: Faizi Md. Serajul Haque , Lone Mohamad Nadeem , Dege Necmi , Malinkin Sergey , Sliva Tatiana Yu.
Published: October 2018

In the title compound, C16H17NO4, the dihedral angle between benzene rings is 72.7 (2)°. The methoxy groups are rotated by 2.4 (2) and −4.9 (2) (benzilidene moiety) and by 5.6 (3)° (aniline moiety) relative to the adjacent benzene ring. In the crystal, the molecules are linked into chains along [101] through C—H...O and O—H...N hydrogen bonds.
Synthesis, crystal structure and Hirshfeld analysis of a new crystalline modification of the radical ion salt octamethylenetetrathiafulvalenium triiodide (OMTTF)I3
Authors: Bof de Oliveira Adriano , Beck Johannes , Daniels Jörg
Published: October 2018

The reaction between 4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-2-(4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1,3-benzodithiol-2-ylidene)-1,3-benzodithiole (common name: 4,4′,5,5′,6,6′,7,7′-octahydrodibenzotetrathiafulvalene, OMTTF) and an excess of iodine in tetrahydrofuran (THF) yielded the respective radical organic polyiodide salt, C14H16S4+·I3−. The asymmetric unit contains one and a half formula unit of both the cation and the anion, with the half-ions completed through inversion symmetry. The (OMTTF^\bullet+) positive charge can be assigned by the bond distances and the planar structure of the C2S2C=CS2C2central fragment. In the crystal, trimers of triiodide anions are connected through secondary intermolecular I...I interactions into almost linear I93−polyanions. The non-centrosymmetric OMTTF radical cations are linked by S...S interactions into centrosymmetric dimers, while the centrosymmetric OMTTF cations remain as discrete units. The (OMTTF^\bullet+) radical cations and the triiodide anions are linked by weak C—H...I and C—H...S interactions into a three-dimensional network. This work reports the fourth crystalline modification of the C14H16S4^\bullet+·I3−salt. The three previous modifications were obtained from a mixture of acetonitrile and toluene [Konarevet al.(2005).Synth. Met.151, 231–238].
Nutritional traffic light and self-regulatory consumption: the role of emotions
Authors: Sánchez-García Isabel , Rodríguez-Insuasti Homero , Martí-Parreño José , Sánchez-Mena Antonio
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse how the nutritional traffic light can reduce consumers’ intention to purchase unhealthy food by eliciting negative emotions (i.e. fear and guilt). The work also examines the moderating role of income in the above-mentioned relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical study was conducted in Ecuador. In an initial phase, exploratory research was carried out with two focus groups. Then a quasi-experiment was conducted with 330 participants following a 3×2 design, in which the nutritional traffic light for a dairy product (green, yellow, red) and the variable income (high and low income) were manipulated.

Findings

Traffic light colours (red, yellow and green) significantly influence consumers’ levels of fear and guilt as well as their intention to purchase. Income has also been found to have a moderating effect on the above relationships.

Practical implications

Further understanding of how nutritional labels influence consumer behaviour may have beneficial effects for public authorities attempting to improve citizens’ health and for society as a whole. It may also help firms that produce and market packaged foods to be aware of what type of foods new consumers want and adapt their offering in consequence.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this work is the analysis of the influence of the nutritional traffic light on emotions, namely, fear and guilt and how these emotions lead consumers to control their consumption of unhealthy foods. In addition, the present work proposes the moderating effect of income on the influence of colour on emotions and purchase intention.
Performance landscape modeling in digital manufacturing firm
Authors: Kulkarni Sourabh , Verma Priyanka , Mukundan R.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to update existing Kauffmann’s NK model to evaluate the manufacturing fitness of strategic business capabilities. The updated model is tested in a digital manufacturing (DM) setting to investigate the sequence for developing cumulative capabilities that can yield the maximum payoff.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors develop a grey–DEMATEL–NK fitness model and show its application, through a case study, to a DM firm in India.

Findings

The grey–DEMATEL–NK model helps evaluate multiple manufacturing capabilities and indicates that quality–flexibility–cost–delivery is the sequence that yields the maximum manufacturing fitness (competitive payoff) for a DM firm. This sequence helps the firm reorganise its internal business processes and is different from that used to develop cumulative capabilities in a traditional manufacturing setting (quality–delivery–flexibility–cost).

Originality/value

This study presents a pilot model for computing the cumulative capabilities payoff and prescribes a sequence for developing cumulative capabilities within a DM context.
Developing Māori collections
Authors: Lilley Spencer
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an introduction to Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, briefly describing their origin, population structure, language and knowledge structures. There is also a description of the process by which Māori knowledge systems were transformed into a written structure from predominantly oral and visual forms. In the latter part of the paper, there is a discussion about how the growing demand by Māori clients changed the delivery of resources and services in New Zealand libraries and led to the development of Māori collections in libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a case study approach this paper outlines the impact that literacy and publishing had on Māori traditional knowledge transfer methods. The implication of these developments and their importance to libraries is considered as part of the Treaty of Waitangi reconciliation process and the growing consciousness of the need to be fulfilling the information needs of Māori clients.

Findings

The development of Māori collection has been successful and plays a critical role in meeting the cultural, linguistic, research and recreational information needs of Māori clients.

Research limitations/implications

This case study provides a model for the development of indigenous collections in other countries.

Originality/value

This paper makes a contribution to an area that has not had a significant amount of literature published on it.
Shackles of care
Authors: Yau Amy , Christidi Sofia
Published: October 2018

Purpose

A growing stream of consumer research has examined the family dynamics and consumption practices that come from the changing life stages. This study aims to better understand the narratives surrounding power struggles emanating from continued parental food provision upon the stages of adulthood. The study illustrates the contestations within the family as well as the strategies that recipients use to alleviate these tensions within the context of adult Greek daughters and sons.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used in-depth narrative interviews with 17 Greek consumers together with photo elicitation to examine consumers’ power struggles in experiencing continued food provision within the family.

Findings

The study demonstrates that continued food provision affects the stages of adulthood. The adult children go through a journey of negotiation and struggles of power arising within parental food provision practices. The study demonstrates four power-based struggles and four negotiation strategies to cope with and alleviate the contestations.

Research limitations

Such exploration allowed insights to emerge in relation to the narratives of sons and daughters themselves. However, there are two other relational partners – the food providers and the partners of the food recipients – whose perspectives were not captured but would further aid understanding if captured in future research.

Practical implications

The authors show that consumption practices at home can be a source of friction; thus, food related practices outside the family home can be encouraged to mitigate tensions. The findings could inform advertising campaigns and marketing strategies regarding the loving yet challenging family relationship.

Social implications

The authors encourage mothers to be reflective on the tendency towards continued provision, as the food provision contributes to the daughter and son’s sense of protracted adulthood stages. Insights from the study are applicable to family tensions in other contexts such as the boomerang generation.

Originality/value

This study focuses on a stage of family life and from a perspective of the recipient, both areas which have been previously under explored. The theoretical perspectives of power are used to contribute to areas of food and family consumption by showing how the provision of food marks meanings of love, but also reveals sources of power and contention. The study also contributes by exploring the role of food consumption in the protraction of adulthood.
Iatrogenic emergency medicine procedure complications and associated trouble-shooting strategies
Authors: Ahmed Rami A. , Hughes Patrick G. , Wong Ambrose H. , Gray Kaley M. , Gable Brad D. , Ballas Derek , Khobrani Ahmad , Selley Robert D. , McQuown Colleen
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a consolidated reference for the acute management of selected iatrogenic procedural injuries occurring in the emergency department (ED).

Design/methodology/approach

A literature search was performed utilizing PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar for studies through March of 2017 investigating search terms “iatrogenic procedure complications,” “error management” and “procedure complications,” in addition to the search terms reflecting case reports involving the eight below listed procedure complications.

Findings

This may be particularly helpful to academic faculty who supervise physicians in training who present a higher risk to cause such injuries.

Originality/value

Emergent procedures performed in the ED present a higher risk for iatrogenic injury than in more controlled settings. Many physicians are taught error-avoidance rather than how to handle errors when learning procedures. There is currently very limited literature on the error management of iatrogenic procedure complications in the ED.
Investigation of magnetic field anneal in micro-patterned amorphous ribbon on giant magneto-impedance effect enhancement
Authors: Feng Zhu , Zhi Shaotao , Guo Lei , Lei Chong , Zhou Yong
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate magnetic field anneal in micro-patterned Co-based amorphous ribbon on giant magneto-impedance (GMI) effect enhancement.

Design/methodology/approach

The amorphous ribbons were annealed in transverse and longitudinal magnetic field. The influence of different field annealing directions on GMI effect and impedance Z, resistance R and reactance X with a series of line width have been deeply analyzed.

Findings

In comparison with GMI sensors microfabricated by unannealed and transversal field annealed ribbons, GMI sensor which was designed and microfabricated by longitudinal field anneal ribbon performs better. The results can be explained by the domain wall motion and domain rotation during annealing process and the geometric structure of Co-based GMI sensor. In addition, shrinking the line width of GMI sensor can promote GMI effect significantly because of the effect of demagnetizing field, and the optimum GMI ratio is 209.7 per cent in longitudinal field annealed GMI sensor with 200 μm line width.

Originality/value

In conclusion, annealing in longitudinal magnetic field and decreasing line width can enhance GMI effect in micro-patterned Co-based amorphous ribbon.
The play skills of children with high‐functioning autism spectrum disorder in peer‐to‐peer interactions with their classmates: A multiple case study design
Authors: Vousden Bethany , Wilkes‐Gillan Sarah , Cordier Reinie , Froude Elspeth
Published: October 2018

Background/aim

Children with ASD are known to have lower play skills than their typically developing peers. However, the play skills of children with ASD are rarely investigated using observational measures in the context of their everyday peer‐to‐peer play interactions. To explore the play skills of children with ASD and their aged matched classmates during a peer‐to‐peer play interaction.

Methods

Using convenience sampling, four children with ASD (5–11 years) attending mainstream schools were recruited for this multiple case design study. Each child with ASD was paired with one of their aged matched typically developing classmates. Children's play skills were measured using the Test of Playfulness (ToP). Additional case data were collected through teacher‐reported social skills and behaviours. Rasch analysis was utilised to convert raw ToP scores into an interval level overall score for each child. Children's individual ToP item scores, social skills and behaviours are presented by case.

Results

The two children with ASD who had the highest ToP scores, also had the highest teacher‐reported social skills. All children with ASD had greatest difficulty on ToP items reflecting suspension of reality and framing. Two children with ASD had higher ToP scores than their classmate. In these two cases, the classmates had similar play skills of children with ASD.

Conclusion

The play skills of children with ASD varied by case. Across the cases, teacher‐reported social skills, classmate age and existence of friendship between children were all factors observed to influence play. These findings require replication and investigation in larger scale studies.
Internationally educated occupational therapists transitioning to practice in Canada: A qualitative study
Authors: Dhillon Shaminder , Dix Leah , Baptiste Sue , Moll Sandra , Stroinska Magda , Solomon Patricia
Published: October 2018

Background/aim

While internationally educated occupational therapists (IEOTs) may assist Western countries in addressing workforce shortages, their transition to practice can be difficult. Provincial and national levels of government in Canada have funded initiatives to address the barriers experienced by IEOTs. The purpose of this study is to identify the key forces shaping the experiences of IEOTs transitioning to practice in Canada.

Methods

An interpretive description approach was taken to interview 11 IEOTs who graduated from the Occupational Therapy Examination and Practice Preparation (OTepp) program. Data analysis was guided by the theoretical scaffolding of the occupational therapy profession. Two team members, who are also occupational therapists, developed codes and categories independently and then through discussion reached a higher level of interpretation.

Results

The experiences of IEOTs in Canada were shaped by two key forces: Realising that more than exam preparation is required and the impact of previous person, environment and occupation transactions. Participants underestimated their learning needs related to their transition to Canadian practice. As they engaged in the OTepp program, they realised that their learning extended beyond that required for the national certification exam. Also, the extent to which the participant (person), previous context (environment) and previous practice (occupation) were similar to Canadian therapists, influenced IEOTs’ performance in OTepp and their overall transition to practice. The Person‐Environment‐Occupation (PEO) model provided a framework to contextualise this theme.

Conclusion

IEOTs will benefit from individualised learning needs assessments and education plans to address their specific needs. At an international level, the occupational therapy profession must engage in dialogue about the differences between education programs and the resulting implications for the profession. More research is also needed to understand the experiences of IEOTs who withdraw from or do not engage in formal supports.
Developing a critical trans gerontology
Authors: Toze Michael
Published: October 2018

Within existing academic literature, ageing within trans populations has primarily been addressed from the perspective of offering advice to service providers and clinicians, with relatively limited application of critical sociological perspectives. This article seeks to integrate the critical perspectives on gerontology with transfeminism, identifying areas of commonality regarding accounts of an integrated lifecourse, scepticism of biomedicalization, and an emphasis on local context. The article suggests that this integration provides a fruitful basis for developing future research into the study of trans ageing, and also provides theoretical development across many debates around age, gender and the lifecourse.
How do international lawyers handle facts? The role of folk sociological theories at the International Criminal Court
Authors: Seroussi Julien
Published: October 2018

The International Criminal Court (ICC) investigates international crimes committed in different parts of the world. Earlier scholarly analysis of the work performed by the ICC judges has pointed out that judges often lack cultural and national understanding of the local norms and customs of regions where defendants come from. This article treats this lack of contextual knowledge displayed by the court as a case of structural ignorance rather than an aberration to be ‘exposed’ or censured. International lawyers indeed must ground their legal narratives with plausible sociological explanations of contextual elements to overcome their lack of familiarity with the field and the scarcity of their investigative resources. By uncovering the role of ‘folk sociological theories’ (FSTs) in the establishment of facts in a court context, this article addresses the debate over the efficiency of international criminal justice by highlighting the need to bring historical truth back in. The empirical evidence is based on several years of participant observation in the ICC during the trials against Mathieu Ngudjolo and Germain Katanga, two militiamen from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Application of microwave vacuum drying for snack production: Characteristics of pure cheese puffs
Authors: Chudy Sylwia , Makowska Agnieszka , Piątek Michał , Krzywdzińska‐Bartkowiak Mirosława
Published: October 2018

The aim of the study was to obtain and describe crispy snacks purely made of cheese (also referred to as ‘pure’ cheese snacks) using microwave vacuum drying technology. An acid‐set ripened cheese (Harzer cheese) was tested as the raw material. Cutting, hot air drying and microwave vacuum drying were applied in the technology process. This paper investigates the impact of these processes on the physical properties of the puffs; it also includes sensory evaluation of the resulting product. The cheese pieces expanded by ca. 1000% of their original size with a sharp decrease in the bulk density of the puffed samples. Water activity, hardness and brittleness of the cheese puffs were 0.35, 1511.17 g and 3.20 mm, respectively. The CIE LAB coordinates (in spin position), L*, a* and b*, were 82.81, 1.51 and 20.54, respectively. This paper shows that a new form of dairy product can be produced using microwave technology.
Dual Use of Department of Veterans Affairs and Medicare Benefits on High‐Risk Opioid Prescriptions in Veterans Aged 65 Years and Older: Insights from the VA Musculoskeletal Disorders Cohort
Authors: Chui Philip W. , Bastian Lori A. , DeRycke Eric , Brandt Cynthia A. , Becker William C. , Goulet Joseph L.
Published: October 2018

Objective

To examine the association of dual use of both Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and Medicare benefits with high‐risk opioid prescriptions among Veterans aged 65 years and older with a musculoskeletal disorder diagnosis.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Data were obtained from the VA Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) cohort and national Medicare claims data from 2008 to 2010.

Study Design

We conducted a retrospective analysis of Veterans enrolled in Medicare to examine the association of dual use with long‐term opioid use (>90 days of prescription opioids/year) and overlapping opioid prescriptions. Multivariable logistic regression was performed adjusting for demographic and clinical characteristics.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

We identified 21,111 Veterans enrolled in Medicare who entered the MSD cohort in 2008 and received an opioid prescription in 2010. We linked VHA data with Medicare claims data to identify opioid prescriptions for these Veterans in 2010.

Principal Findings

As compared to Veterans who used only VHA or Medicare, Veterans with dual use of VHA and Medicare were significantly more likely to be prescribed long‐term opioid therapy (OR = 4.61 (95 percent CI 4.05–5.25) and were also found to have higher median number of opioid prescriptions and higher odds of overlapping opioid prescriptions in 1 year. Patients reporting moderate‐to‐severe pain, non‐white‐race/ethnicity, and higher scoring on the Charlson comorbidity index had significantly higher odds of long‐term opioid prescriptions.

Conclusions

Among Veterans aged 65 years or older, dual use of both VHA and Medicare was associated with higher odds of long‐term opioid therapy. Our findings suggest there may be benefit to combining VHA and non‐VHA electronic health record data to minimize exposure to high‐risk opioid prescribing.
Antarctic heterotrophic bacterium Hymenobacter nivis P3T displays light‐enhanced growth and expresses putative photoactive proteins
Authors: Terashima Mia , Ohashi Keisuke , Takasuka Taichi E. , Kojima Hisaya , Fukui Manabu
Published: October 2018

Hymenobacter nivis P3T is a heterotrophic bacterium isolated from Antarctic red snow generated by algal blooms. Despite being non‐photosynthetic, H. nivis was dominantly found in the red snow environment that is exposed to high light and UV irradiation, suggesting that this species can flourish under such harsh conditions. In order to further understand the adaptive strategies on the snow surface environment of Antarctica, the genome of H. nivis P3T was sequenced and analyzed, which identified genes putatively encoding for light‐reactive proteins such as proteorhodopsin, phytochrome, photolyase and several copies of cryptochromes. Culture‐based experiments revealed that H. nivis P3T growth was significantly enhanced under light conditions, while dark conditions had increased extracellular polymeric substances. Furthermore, the expression of several putative light‐reactive proteins was determined by proteomic analysis. These results indicate that H. nivis P3T is able to potentially utilize light, which may explain its dominance on the red snow surface environment of Antarctica.

Originality‐significance statement

The role of proteorhodopsin in heterotrophic bacteria is not well‐characterized, as only a handful of proteorhodopsin‐harbouring isolates were shown to have a light‐enhanced phenotype through culture‐based experiments to date. This is the first study that demonstrates light‐stimulated growth and protein expression evidence of photoactive proteins for a non‐marine psychrophile and for a member of the genus Hymenobacter. It is also the first study that provides comprehensive proteome information for this genus. This study presents significant results in understanding the adaptive mechanism of a heterotrophic non‐photosynthetic bacterium thriving on the snow surface environment of Antarctica as well as demonstrating the role of light‐utilization in promoting growth, possibly through proteorhodopsin.
Lofts in translation: Gentrification in the Warehouse District, Regina, Saskatchewan
Authors: Mathews Vanessa
Published: October 2018

This paper contributes to analyses of gentrification in smaller cities. Drawing on a case study of Regina, Saskatchewan's Warehouse District, I document the conversion of post‐industrial structures into loft condominiums and the rise of middle‐class consumption to support this residential base. I demonstrate that while the Warehouse District displays similarities with the paradigmatic case studies on loft living that dominate the literature (e.g., demographics, built form, gentrification), it also highlights how these processes and practices are adapted in peripheral spaces. While the resemblance to the loft scene in SoHo, New York is evident in loft districts internationally, it is less relevant in this smaller urban context. Ultimately, the chic cosmopolitanism of loft living is lost in translation, leaving an incoherent place identity as producers and consumers attempt to engage with global and local ideals of the loft habitus. This paper draws on a qualitative approach including semi‐structured interviews with loft residents, local businesses, and key stakeholders, and discourse analysis of planning and policy materials and media documents.
Epidermal growth factor receptor promotes glioma progression by regulating xCT and GluN2B‐containing N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate–sensitive glutamate receptor signaling
Authors: Suina Kentaro , Tsuchihashi Kenji , Yamasaki Juntaro , Kamenori Shohei , Shintani Subaru , Hirata Yuki , Okazaki Shogo , Sampetrean Oltea , Baba Eishi , Akashi Koichi , Mitsuishi Yoichiro , Takahashi Fumiyuki , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Saya Hideyuki , Nagano Osamu
Published: October 2018

Autocrine and paracrine factors, including glutamate and epidermal growth factor (EGF), are potent inducers of brain tumor cell invasion, a pathological hallmark of malignant gliomas. System xc(–) consists of xCT and CD98hc subunits and functions as a plasma membrane antiporter for the uptake of extracellular cystine in exchange for intracellular glutamate. We previously showed that the EGF receptor (EGFR) interacts with xCT and thereby promotes the activity of system xc(–) in a kinase‐independent manner, resulting in enhanced glutamate release in glioma cells. However, the molecular mechanism underlying EGFR‐mediated glioma progression in a glutamate‐rich microenvironment has remained unclear. Here we show that the GluN2B subunit of the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate–sensitive glutamate receptor (NMDAR) is a substrate of EGFR in glioma cells. In response to EGF stimulation, EGFR phosphorylated the COOH‐terminal domain of GluN2B and thereby enhanced glutamate‐NMDAR signaling and consequent cell migration in EGFR‐overexpressing glioma cells. Treatment with the NMDAR inhibitor MK‐801 or the system xc(–) inhibitor sulfasalazine suppressed EGF‐elicited glioma cell migration. The administration of sulfasalazine and MK‐801 also synergistically suppressed the growth of subcutaneous tumors formed by EGFR‐overexpressing glioma cells. Furthermore, shRNA‐mediated knockdown of xCT and GluN2B cooperatively prolonged the survival of mice injected intracerebrally with such glioma cells. Our findings thus establish a central role for EGFR in the signaling crosstalk between xCT and GluN2B‐containing NMDAR in glioma cells.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of genistein‐O‐alkylamine derivatives as potential multifunctional anti‐Alzheimer agents
Authors: Hong Chen , Guo Hui‐yan , Chen Shuai , Lv Jian‐wu , Zhang Xin , Yang Ya‐cheng , Huang Kang , Zhang Yi‐juan , Tian Zhi‐yong , Luo Wen , Chen Yi‐ping
Published: October 2018

A series of genistein derivatives were synthesized and evaluated as multifunctional anti‐Alzheimer agents. The results showed that these derivatives had significant acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity; compound 5a exhibited the strongest inhibition to AChE with an IC50 value (0.034 μM) much lower than that of rivastigmine (6.53 μM). A Lineweaver–Burk plot and molecular modeling study showed that compound 5a targeted both the catalytic active site and the peripheral anionic site of AChE. These compounds also showed potent peroxy scavenging activity and metal‐chelating ability. The compounds did not show obvious effect on HepG2 and PC12 cell viability at the concentration of 100 μM. Therefore, these genistein derivatives can be utilized as multifunctional agents for the treatment of AD.
Early Literacy Predictors and Second‐Grade Outcomes in Children Who Are Hard of Hearing
Authors: Tomblin J. Bruce , Oleson Jake , Ambrose Sophie E. , Walker Elizabeth A. , Moeller Mary P.
Published: October 2018

This study contrasted the early literacy outcomes of children who are hard of hearing (CHH) with children with normal hearing (CNH). At age 5, prereading skills of oral language, phonological processing, and print knowledge were examined in CHH (N = 180) and CNH (N = 80). The CHH had poorer oral language and phonological processing abilities than the CNH but comparable knowledge of print. At age 8, measures of word reading, and reading comprehension yielded no differences between CHH (N = 108) and CNH (N = 62) except for reading comprehension for the moderately severe CHH. Reading achievement in CHH was found to exceed predictions based on prereading performance. This resilience was associated with gains in oral language during the early school years.
Cardiopulmonary exercise testing for evaluation of a randomized exercise training intervention following aortic valve replacement
Authors: Nilsson Henric , Nylander Eva , Borg Sabina , Tamás Éva , Hedman Kristofer
Published: October 2018

Aortic valve surgery is the definitive treatment for aortic stenosis (AS). No specific recommendation is available on how exercise training should be conducted and evaluated after aortic valve replacement (AVR). This study aimed to examine the effect of aerobic exercise training on exercise capacity following AVR. In addition to our primary outcome variable, peak oxygen uptake (peakVO2), the effect on submaximal cardiopulmonary variables including oxygen uptake kinetics (tau), oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES) and ventilatory efficiency (VE/VCO2 slope) was evaluated. Following AVR due to AS, 12 patients were randomized to either a group receiving 12 weeks of supervised aerobic exercise training (EX) or a control group (CON). Exercise capacity was assessed by a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). There was a significant increase in peak load (+28%, P = 0·031) and in peakVO2 (+23%, P = 0·031) in EX, corresponding to an increase in achieved percentage of predicted peakVO2 from 88 to 104% (P = 0·031). For submaximal variables, there were only non‐statistically significant trends in improvement between CPETs in EX. In CON, there were no significant differences in any maximal or submaximal variable between CPETs. We conclude that 12 weeks of supervised aerobic exercise training induces significant adaptations in cardiopulmonary function following AVR, especially in regard to maximal variables including peakVO2. In addition, we provide novel data on the effect on several submaximal variables following exercise training in this group of patients.
Can Doppler echocardiography estimate raised pulmonary capillary wedge pressure provoked by passive leg lifting in suspected heart failure?
Authors: Henein Michael Y. , Tossavainen Erik , A'roch Roman , Söderberg Stefan , Lindqvist Per
Published: October 2018

Aims

Non‐invasive estimation of left ventricular filling pressure (LVFP) during stress is important for explaining exertional symptoms in patients with heart failure (HF). The aim of this study was to evaluate ability of Doppler echocardiographic measures of elevated LVFP with passive leg lifting (PLL) in patients with suspected HF.

Methods

Twenty‐nine patients with clinical signs of HF who underwent simultaneous Doppler echocardiography and right heart catheterization (RHC) at rest and during PLL were consecutively investigated. Seventeen patients had normal PCWP (≤15 mmHg) at rest and during PLL and 12 with normal PCWP at rest but >15 mmHg with PLL. Conventional echo and 2D strain were used to assess early diastolic blood flow velocity (E), LV strain rate during early diastole (LVSRe), left atrial SR during atrial contraction (LASRa) and myocardial tissue Doppler velocities to assess lateral e’ and further calculate E/e’ and E/LVSRe and their relationship with PCWP, at rest and during PLL.

Results

Resting LAVI (β = 0·45, P = 0·009) and LASRa (β = −0·51, P = 0·004) were independently related to PCWP during PLL. Also, LASRa (β = −0·77, P<0·001), E/e’ (β = 0·40, P = 0·04) and E/LVSRe (β = 0·47, P = 0·021) during PLL correlated with PCWP during PLL. Multiple regression analysis identified E/LVSRe (β = 0·46, P = 0·001) and LASRa (β = −0·58, P = 0·002) during PLL as being independently associated with PCWP during PLL.

Conclusion

Left atrial volume and myocardial contraction (LASRa) at rest both predict unstable LV filling pressures measured as raised PCWP when provoked by PLL. Furthermore, LASRa at PLL seems to have the strongest association to PCWP during PLL.