bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of the nervous system in neuromuscular fatigue induced by ultra-endurance exercise
Authors: Millet Guillaume Y. , Martin Vincent , Temesi John
Published: May 2018

Ultra-endurance events are not a recent development but they have only become very popular in the last 2 decades, particularly ultramarathons run on trails. The present paper reviews the role of the central nervous system in neuromuscular fatigue induced by ultra-endurance exercise. Large decreases in voluntary activation are systematically found in ultra-endurance running but are attenuated in ultra-endurance cycling for comparable intensity and duration. This indirectly suggests that afferent feedback, rather than neurobiological changes within the central nervous system, is determinant in the amount of central fatigue produced. Whether this is due to inhibition from type III and IV afferent fibres induced by inflammation, disfacilitation of Ia afferent fibers owing to repeated muscle stretching or other mechanisms still needs to be determined. Sleep deprivation per se does not seem to play a significant role in central fatigue although it still affects performance by elevating ratings of perceived exertion. The kinetics of central fatigue and recovery, the influence of muscle group (knee extensors vs plantar flexors) on central deficit as well as the limitations related to studies on central fatigue in ultra-endurance exercise are also discussed in the present article. To date, no study has quantified the contribution of spinal modulations to central fatigue in ultra-endurance events. Future investigations utilizing spinal stimulation (i.e., thoracic stimulation) must be conducted to assess the role of changes in motoneuronal excitability on the observed central fatigue. Recovery after ultra-endurance events and the effect of sex on neuromuscular fatigue must also be studied further.
On the use of wearable physiological monitors to assess heat strain during occupational heat stress
Authors: Notley Sean R. , Flouris Andreas D. , Kenny Glen P.
Published: May 2018

Workers in many industries are required to perform arduous work in high heat-stress conditions, which can lead to rapid increases in body temperature that elevate the risk of heat-related illness and even death. Traditionally, effort to mitigate work-related heat injury has been directed toward the assessment of environmental heat stress (e.g., wet-bulb globe temperature), rather than toward the associated physiological strain responses (e.g., heart rate and skin and core temperatures). However, because a worker’s physiological response to a given heat stress is modified independently by inter-individual factors (e.g., age, sex, chronic disease, others) and intra-individual factors both within (e.g., medication use, fitness, acclimation and hydration state, others) and beyond (e.g., shift duration, illness, others) the worker’s control, it becomes challenging to protect workers on an individual basis from heat-related injury without assessing those physiological responses. Recent advancements in wearable technology have made it possible to monitor one or more physiological indices of heat strain. Nonetheless, information on the utility of the wearable systems available for assessing occupational heat strain is unavailable. This communication is therefore directed toward identifying the physiological indices of heat strain that may be quantified in the workplace and evaluating the wearable monitoring systems available for assessing those responses. Finally, emphasis is placed on the barriers associated with implementing these devices to assist in mitigating work-related heat injury. This information is fundamental for protecting worker health and could also be utilized to prevent heat illnesses in vulnerable people during leisure or athletic activities.
A new semi-parametric method for autocorrelated age- and time-varying selectivity in age-structured assessment models
Authors: Xu Haikun , Thorson James T. , Methot Richard D. , Taylor Ian G.
Published: May 2018

Selectivity is a key parameter in stock assessments that describes how fisheries interact with different ages and sizes of fish. It is usually confounded with other processes (e.g., natural mortality and recruitment) in stock assessments and the assumption of selectivity can strongly affect stock assessment outcome. Here, we introduce a new semi-parametric selectivity method, which we implement and test in Stock Synthesis. This selectivity method includes a parametric component and an autocorrelated nonparametric component consisting of deviations from the parametric component. We explore the new selectivity method using two simulation experiments, which show that the two autocorrelation parameters for selectivity deviations of data-rich fisheries are estimable using either mixed-effect or simpler sample-based algorithms. When selectivity deviations of a data-rich fishery are highly autocorrelated, using the new method to estimate the two autocorrelation parameters leads to more precise estimations of spawning biomass and fully selected fishing mortality. However, this new method fails to improve model performance in low data quality cases where measurement error in the data overwhelms the pattern caused by the autocorrelated process. Finally, we use a case study involving North Sea herring (Clupea harengus) to show that our new method substantially reduces autocorrelations in the Pearson residuals in fit to age composition data.
Development of race-specific molecular marker forXanthomonas campestrispv.campestrisrace 3, the causal agent of black rot of crucifers
Authors: Afrin Khandker Shazia , Rahim Md Abdur , Rubel Mehede Hassan , Natarajan Sathishkumar , Song Jae-Young , Kim Hoy-Taek , Park Jong-In , Nou Ill-Sup
Published: May 2018

Race-specific molecular markers were established to distinguish Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) race 3, the causal agent of black rot disease of crucifers. The available genome sequences of Xcc races were aligned and identified three DNA fragments specific to Xcc race 3. The identified race-specific DNA fragments namely XccR3-49, XccR3-52, and XccR3-55 were used for designing the race-specific primers to detect and identify Xcc race 3. The specificity of race-specific primers was tested against the genomic DNA extracted from Xcc (races 1–7), Xcc strains, Xc pathovars, and other bacterial species. XccR3-49, a specific sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) primer set, gave a single band with 867 bp length for Xcc race 3 only. The remaining two markers XccR3-52 and XccR3-55 showed polymorphic amplification with amplicon sizes of 1889 and 2109 bp for Xcc race 3, respectively. Additionally, the SCAR primer set detected Xcc race 3 rapidly and efficiently in artificially infected cabbage leaves with bio-PCR. This result showed that the newly developed race-specific markers can successfully and efficiently detect and identify Xcc race 3 from Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris races, Xanthomonas species/pathovars, as well as other plant pathogenic bacteria (Pseudomonas syringae pv. maculicola and Erwinia carotovora subsp. carotovora). Up to now, this is the first report describing the race-specific marker for the detection of Xcc race 3.
Vegetative propagation of cannabis by stem cuttings: effects of leaf number, cutting position, rooting hormone, and leaf tip removal
Authors: Caplan Deron , Stemeroff Jonathan , Dixon Mike , Zheng Youbin
Published: May 2018

This study evaluated the influence of several factors and their interactive effects on the propagation success of stem cuttings of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.). Factors included (i) leaf number (two or three), (ii) leaf tip removal (one-third of leaf tips removed), (iii) basal/apical position of stem cutting on the stock plant, and (iv) rooting hormone [0.2% indole-3-butyric (IBA) acid gel or 0.2% willow (Salix alba L.) extract gel]. Cuttings were placed in a growth chamber for twelve days and then assessed on their rooting success rate and root quality using a relative root quality scale. The IBA gel delivered a 2.1× higher rooting success rate and 1.6× higher root quality than the willow extract. Removing leaf tips reduced rooting success rate from 71% to 53% without influencing root quality. Cuttings with three leaves had 15% higher root quality compared with those with two, but leaf number did not influence rooting success rate. Position of cutting had little effect on rooting success or quality. To achieve maximum rooting success and root quality, cuttings from either apical or basal positions should have at least three fully expanded uncut leaves and the tested IBA rooting hormone is preferred to the willow-based product.
Spin-polarized transport of the electron in a device with a Schottky metal stripe and a δ-doping
Authors: Zhao Meng , Lu Jian-Duo , Peng Shun-Jin , Liu Hong-Yu
Published: May 2018

We theoretically investigate the electron transport properties in a nanostructure modulated by a ferromagnetic stripe (FM) and a Schottky metal stripe (SM) as well as a [Formula: see text]-doping with the help of transfer-matrix method. It is found that the position and the weight of the [Formula: see text]-doping, the width of the SM and the electrical potential, all play an important role in the electron transmission probability and the spin polarization. Therefore, we can control the electron transport properties through adjusting the SM and the [Formula: see text]-doping. These interesting phenomena may be very helpful for designing the spintronic devices.
Chen System as a Controlled Weather Model — Physical Principle, Engineering Design and Real Applications
Authors: Sooraksa Pitikhate , Chen Guanrong
Published: May 2018

This paper presents the Chen system as a controlled weather model. Mathematically, the Chen system is dual to the Lorenz system via time reversal. Physically, the Chen system can be viewed as a controlled weather model from the anti-control perspective. This paper illustrates the physical principle of this controlled weather model, and develops an engineering design of the model for real indoor climate (temperature-humidity) regulation, with a perspective on outdoor weather control application.
Periodicity and Chaos Amidst Twisting and Folding in Two-Dimensional Maps
Authors: Garst Swier , Sterk Alef E.
Published: May 2018

We study the dynamics of three planar, noninvertible maps which rotate and fold the plane. Two maps are inspired by real-world applications whereas the third map is constructed to serve as a toy model for the other two maps. The dynamics of the three maps are remarkably similar. A stable fixed point bifurcates through a Hopf–Neĭmark–Sacker which leads to a countably infinite set of resonance tongues in the parameter plane of the map. Within a resonance tongue a periodic point can bifurcate through a period-doubling cascade. At the end of the cascade we detect Hénon-like attractors which are conjectured to be the closure of the unstable manifold of a saddle periodic point. These attractors have a folded structure which can be explained by means of the concept of critical lines. We also detect snap-back repellers which can either coexist with Hénon-like attractors or which can be formed when the saddle-point of a Hénon-like attractor becomes a source.
Stability and Hopf Bifurcation in a Reaction–Diffusion Model with Chemotaxis and Nonlocal Delay Effect
Authors: Li Dong , Guo Shangjiang
Published: May 2018

Chemotaxis is an observed phenomenon in which a biological individual moves preferentially toward a relatively high concentration, which is contrary to the process of natural diffusion. In this paper, we study a reaction–diffusion model with chemotaxis and nonlocal delay effect under Dirichlet boundary condition by using Lyapunov–Schmidt reduction and the implicit function theorem. The existence, multiplicity, stability and Hopf bifurcation of spatially nonhomogeneous steady state solutions are investigated. Moreover, our results are illustrated by an application to the model with a logistic source, homogeneous kernel and one-dimensional spatial domain.
On the Number of Periodic Solutions of Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Han Maoan , Xu Bing , Tian Huanhuan , Bai Yuzhen
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we consider the existence and number of periodic solutions for a class of delay differential equations of the form [Formula: see text], based on the Kaplan–Yorke method. Especially, we consider a kind of delay differential equations with [Formula: see text] as a polynomial having parameters and find the number of periodic solutions with period [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text].
Inconsistencies in Numerical Simulations of Dynamical Systems Using Interval Arithmetic
Authors: Nepomuceno Erivelton G. , Peixoto Márcia L. C. , Martins Samir A. M. , Rodrigues Heitor M. , Perc Matjaž
Published: May 2018

Over the past few decades, interval arithmetic has been attracting widespread interest from the scientific community. With the expansion of computing power, scientific computing is encountering a noteworthy shift from floating-point arithmetic toward increased use of interval arithmetic. Notwithstanding the significant reliability of interval arithmetic, this paper presents a theoretical inconsistency in a simulation of dynamical systems using a well-known implementation of arithmetic interval. We have observed that two natural interval extensions present an empty intersection during a finite time range, which is contrary to the fundamental theorem of interval analysis. We have proposed a procedure to at least partially overcome this problem, based on the union of the two generated pseudo-orbits. This paper also shows a successful case of interval arithmetic application in the reduction of interval width size on the simulation of discrete map. The implications of our findings on the reliability of scientific computing using interval arithmetic have been properly addressed using two numerical examples.
Block–Sharkovsky Type Theorem on the Circle Applicable to Differential Equations and Inclusions
Authors: Andres Jan , Pastor Karel
Published: May 2018

The forcing properties of periods one, two, three, four, five are investigated for multivalued maps on the circle. The obtained Block–Sharkovsky type theorems are then applied to differential equations and inclusions on [Formula: see text] for the coexistence of (subharmonic) periodic solutions with various periods. These new results can be regarded as a continuation of those presented in our recent paper [Andres & Fišer, 2017].
History of deepwater exploration in the Black Sea and an overview of deepwater petroleum play types
Authors: Tari G. C. , Simmons M. D.
Published: May 2018

Deepwater hydrocarbon exploration drilling only began in the Black Sea less than 20 years ago, primarily because of the economical/technological challenges associated with mobilizing suitable rigs through the Bosporus. However, to date (end 2017),
c.
20 deepwater wells have now been drilled, targeting a large variety of plays in this underexplored basin. The deepwater wells drilled to date are categorized by their main play objectives, within either the sag/post-rift or syn-rift basin fill of the Black Sea. The sag/post-rift play types have proven to be more successful, finding either biogenic gas in Miocene to Pliocene reservoirs associated with the Paleo-Danube and Paleo-Dnieper/Dniester or oil in Oligocene deepwater siliciclastic systems. Syn-rift or early post-rift plays, in contrast, assumed mostly shallow water carbonate reservoir targets. Only one well targeted pre-rift stratigraphy. Most of the exploration failures to date are directly related to the lack of reservoir at the targeted stratigraphic levels. However, the recent discoveries have underlined the presence of at least two active and effective petroleum systems that cover large parts of the deepwater Black Sea Basin.
Polyphase tectonic inversion and its role in controlling hydrocarbon prospectivity in the Greater East Shetland Platform and Mid North Sea High, UK
Authors: Patruno Stefano , Reid William , Berndt Christian , Feuilleaubois Laurent
Published: May 2018

Thick Paleozoic successions are buried under the Greater East Shetland Platform (ESP) and Mid North Sea High (MNSH), two large underexplored platform regions flanking the structural depocentres of the North Sea. Here, newly acquired broadband seismic data are interpreted to provide a novel assessment of the regional tectonostratigraphic evolution and its influence on hydrocarbon prospectivity. Numerous working reservoir units are present over these two frontier areas, together with large Paleozoic traps. Hydrocarbon charge occurs either via a likely maximum 30–40 km lateral migration from the Jurassic/Carboniferous basinal source kitchens or, possibly, via vertical/lateral migration from deeper Devono-Carboniferous source intervals. The two regions underwent a largely similar evolution, consisting of at least eight successive switch-overs between regional compression/uplift and extension/subsidence in the last 420 myr. However, on the Greater MNSH, the lack of significant Permo-Triassic rifting probably resulted in too little subsidence for the lower Carboniferous interval to reach sufficient burial depth for gas maturation. Seep and fluid escape data suggest a working ‘deep’ source in the Greater ESP. Here, the presence of localized Permo-Triassic intra-platform grabens and half-grabens provided sufficient subsidence for the oil-prone middle Devonian unit to eventually enter the oil maturation window and faults provide easy conduits for the upwards migration of oil.
Along the Central Dogma—Controlling Gene Expression with Small Molecules
Authors: Schneider-Poetsch Tilman , Yoshida Minoru
Published: May 2018

The central dogma of molecular biology, that DNA is transcribed into RNA and RNA translated into protein, was coined in the early days of modern biology. Back in the 1950s and 1960s, bacterial genetics first opened the way toward understanding life as the genetically encoded interaction of macromolecules. As molecular biology progressed and our knowledge of gene control deepened, it became increasingly clear that expression relied on many more levels of regulation. In the process of dissecting mechanisms of gene expression, specific small-molecule inhibitors played an important role and became valuable tools of investigation. Small molecules offer significant advantages over genetic tools, as they allow inhibiting a process at any desired time point, whereas mutating or altering the gene of an important regulator would likely result in a dead organism. With the advent of modern sequencing technology, it has become possible to monitor global cellular effects of small-molecule treatment and thereby overcome the limitations of classical biochemistry, which usually looks at a biological system in isolation. This review focuses on several molecules, especially natural products, that have played an important role in dissecting gene expression and have opened up new fields of investigation as well as clinical venues for disease treatment.
Data Science Issues in Studying Protein–RNA Interactions with CLIP Technologies
Authors: Chakrabarti Anob M. , Haberman Nejc , Praznik Arne , Luscombe Nicholas M. , Ule Jernej
Published: May 2018

An interplay of experimental and computational methods is required to achieve a comprehensive understanding of protein–RNA interactions. UV crosslinking and immunoprecipitation (CLIP) identifies endogenous interactions by sequencing RNA fragments that copurify with a selected RNA-binding protein under stringent conditions. Here we focus on approaches for the analysis of the resulting data and appraise the methods for peak calling, visualization, analysis, and computational modeling of protein–RNA binding sites. We advocate that the sensitivity and specificity of data be assessed in combination for computational quality control. Moreover, we demonstrate the value of analyzing sequence motif enrichment in peaks assigned from CLIP data and of visualizing RNA maps, which examine the positional distribution of peaks around regulated landmarks in transcripts. We use these to assess how variations in CLIP data quality and in different peak calling methods affect the insights into regulatory mechanisms. We conclude by discussing future opportunities for the computational analysis of protein–RNA interaction experiments.
Hemodynamic effects of incremental lung hyperinflation
Authors: Cheyne William S. , Gelinas Jinelle C. , Eves Neil D.
Published: May 2018

Dynamic hyperinflation (DH) is common in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and is associated with dyspnea and exercise intolerance. DH also has adverse cardiac effects, although the magnitude of DH and the mechanisms responsible for the hemodynamic impairment remain unclear. We hypothesized that incrementally increasing DH would systematically reduce left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) and LV stroke volume (LVSV) because of direct ventricular interaction. Twenty-three healthy subjects (22 ± 2 yr) were exposed to varying degrees of expiratory loading to induce DH such that inspiratory capacity was decreased by 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% (100% DH =  inspiratory capacity of resting tidal volume plus inspiratory reserve volume ≈ 0.5 l). LV volumes, LV geometry, inferior vena cava collapsibility, and LV end-systolic wall stress were assessed by triplane echocardiography. 25% DH reduced LVEDV (−6 ± 5%) and LVSV (−9 ± 8%). 50% DH elicited a similar response in LVEDV (−6 ± 7%) and LVSV (−11 ± 10%) and was associated with significant septal flattening [31 ± 32% increase in the radius of septal curvature at end diastole (RSC-ED)]. 75% DH caused a larger reduction in LVEDV and LVSV (−9 ± 7% and −16 ± 10%, respectively) and RSC-ED (49 ± 70%). 100% DH caused the largest reduction in LVEDV and LVSV (−13 ± 9% and −18 ± 9%) and an increase in RSC-ED (56 ± 63%). Inferior vena cava collapsibility and LV afterload (LV end-systolic wall stress) were unchanged at all levels of DH. Modest DH (−0.6 ± 0.2 l inspiratory reserve volume) reduced LVSV because of reduced LVEDV, likely because of increased pulmonary vascular resistance. At higher levels of DH, direct ventricular interaction may be the primary cause of attenuated LVSV, as indicated by septal flattening because of a greater relative increase in right ventricular pressure and/or mediastinal constraint.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY By systematically reducing inspiratory capacity during spontaneous breathing, we demonstrate that dynamic hyperinflation (DH) progressively reduces left ventricular (LV) end diastolic volume and LV stroke volume. Evidence of significant septal flattening suggests that direct ventricular interaction may be primarily responsible for the reduced LV stroke volume during DH. Hemodynamic impairment appears to occur at relatively lower levels of DH and may have important clinical implications for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Acute stimulation of the soluble guanylate cyclase does not impact on left ventricular capacitance in normal and hypertrophied porcine hearts in vivo
Authors: Alogna Alessio , Schwarzl Michael , Manninger Martin , Hamdani Nazha , Zirngast Birgit , Kloth Benjamin , Steendijk Paul , Verderber Jochen , Zweiker David , Westermann Dirk , Blankenberg Stefan , Maechler Heinrich , Tschöpe Carsten , Linke Wolfgang A. , Marsche Gunther , Pieske Burkert M. , Post Heiner
Published: May 2018

Experimental data indicate that stimulation of the nitric oxide-soluble guanylate cyclase(sGC)-cGMP-PKG pathway can increase left ventricular (LV) capacitance via phosphorylation of the myofilamental protein titin. We aimed to test whether acute pharmacological sGC stimulation with BAY 41-8543 would increase LV capacitance via titin phosphorylation in healthy and deoxycorticosteroneacetate (DOCA)-induced hypertensive pigs. Nine healthy Landrace pigs and 7 pigs with DOCA-induced hypertension and LV concentric hypertrophy were acutely instrumented to measure LV end-diastolic pressure-volume relationships (EDPVRs) at baseline and during intravenous infusion of BAY 41-8543 (1 and 3 μg·kg−1·min−1for 30 min, respectively). Separately, in seven healthy and six DOCA pigs, transmural LV biopsies were harvested from the beating heart to measure titin phosphorylation during BAY 41-8543 infusion. LV EDPVRs before and during BAY 41-8543 infusion were superimposable in both healthy and DOCA-treated pigs, whereas mean aortic pressure decreased by 20–30 mmHg in both groups. Myocardial titin phosphorylation was unchanged in healthy pigs, but total and site-specific (Pro-Glu-Val-Lys and N2-Bus domains) titin phosphorylation was increased in DOCA-treated pigs. Bicoronary nitroglycerin infusion in healthy pigs ( n = 5) induced a rightward shift of the LV EDPVR, demonstrating the responsiveness of the pathway in this model. Acute systemic sGC stimulation with the sGC stimulator BAY 41-8543 did not recruit an LV preload reserve in both healthy and hypertrophied LV porcine myocardium, although it increased titin phosphorylation in the latter group. Thus, increased titin phosphorylation is not indicative of increased in vivo LV capacitance.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We demonstrate that acute pharmacological stimulation of soluble guanylate cyclase does not increase left ventricular compliance in normal and hypertrophied porcine hearts. Effects of long-term soluble guanylate cyclase stimulation with oral compounds in disease conditions associated with lowered myocardial cGMP levels, i.e., heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, remain to be investigated.
Arteriolar vasodilation involves actin depolymerization
Authors: Clifford Philip S. , Ferguson Brian S. , Jasperse Jeffrey L. , Hill Michael A.
Published: May 2018

It is generally assumed that relaxation of arteriolar vascular smooth muscle occurs through hyperpolarization of the cell membrane, reduction in intracellular Ca2+concentration, and activation of myosin light chain phosphatase/inactivation of myosin light chain kinase. We hypothesized that vasodilation is related to depolymerization of F-actin. Cremaster muscles were dissected in rats under pentobarbital sodium anesthesia (50 mg/kg). First-order arterioles were dissected, cannulated on glass micropipettes, pressurized, and warmed to 34°C. Internal diameter was monitored with an electronic video caliper. The concentration of G-actin was determined in flash-frozen intact segments of arterioles by ultracentrifugation and Western blot analyses. Arterioles dilated by ~40% of initial diameter in response to pinacidil (1 × 10−6mM) and sodium nitroprusside (5 × 10−5mM). The G-actin-to-smooth muscle 22α ratio was 0.67 ± 0.09 in arterioles with myogenic tone and increased significantly to 1.32 ± 0.34 ( P < 0.01) when arterioles were dilated with pinacidil and 1.14 ± 0.18 ( P < 0.01) with sodium nitroprusside, indicating actin depolymerization. Compared with control vessels (49 ± 5%), the percentage of phosphorylated myosin light chain was significantly reduced by pinacidil (24 ± 2%, P < 0.01) but not sodium nitroprusside (42 ± 4%). These findings suggest that actin depolymerization is an important mechanism for vasodilation of resistance arterioles to external agonists. Furthermore, pinacidil produces smooth muscle relaxation via both decreases in myosin light chain phosphorylation and actin depolymerization, whereas sodium nitroprusside produces smooth muscle relaxation primarily via actin depolymerization.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This article adds to the accumulating evidence on the contribution of the actin cytoskeleton to the regulation of vascular smooth muscle tone in resistance arterioles. Actin depolymerization appears to be an important mechanism for vasodilation of resistance arterioles to pharmacological agonists. Dilation to the K+channel opener pinacidil is produced by decreases in myosin light chain phosphorylation and actin depolymerization, whereas dilation to the nitric oxide donor sodium nitroprusside occurs primarily via actin depolymerization.

Listen to this article’s corresponding podcast at https://ajpheart.podbean.com/e/vascular-smooth-muscle-actin-depolymerization/ .
Anti-MDA5 Antibody-Positive Dermatomyositis Presenting with Cellulitis-Like Erythema on the Mandible as an Initial Symptom
Authors: Hattori Yuki , Matsuyama Kanako , Takahashi Tomoko , Shu En , Kanoh Hiroyuki , Seishima Mariko
Published: May 2018

Panniculitis is an uncommon skin eruption observed in patients with dermatomyositis (DM)/clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis (CADM), especially in anti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5) antibody-positive DM. We present here a 51-year-old Japanese woman with an anti-MDA5 antibody-positive DM who initially had cellulitis-like erythema on her right mandible. Histopathological findings showed a subcutaneous lobular infiltration of lymphocytes. The patient developed typical skin eruptions of DM/CADM, rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease, and severe muscle weakness 2 weeks after the first visit. After the diagnosis of anti-MDA5 antibody-positive DM, she was treated with intravenous steroid pulse therapy (methylprednisolone, 1,000 mg/day for 3 days), oral prednisolone at 1.0 mg/kg/day, and tacrolimus at 4.0 mg/day. The lesions of panniculitis associated with DM/CADM typically present on the buttocks, thighs, arms, and abdomen. This is the first DM/CADM case with localized panniculitis on the face. Panniculitis and myositis usually show simultaneous improvement during treatment. Although panniculitis disappeared with steroid and tacrolimus treatment and did not recur, muscle weakness was intractable and recurred in this case. This indicates that the clinical courses of panniculitis and myositis of DM/CADM do not always change in parallel.
Associations between Dietary Patterns and Post-Bronchodilation Lung Function in the SAPALDIA Cohort
Authors: Steinemann Nina , Grize Leticia , Pons Marco , Rothe Thomas , Stolz Daiana , Turk Alexander , Schindler Christian , Brombach Christine , Probst-Hensch Nicole
Published: May 2018

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not restricted to smokers. Dietary habits may contribute to the disease occurrence. Epidemiological studies point to a protective effect of fruit and vegetable intake against COPD. Objective: To investigate the associations between dietary patterns and parameters of lung function related to COPD in the Swiss Cohort Study on Air Pollution and Lung and Heart Diseases in Adults (SAPALDIA). Methods: Data were included from the second follow-up assessment of the SAPALDIA cohort in 2010–2011 using a food frequency questionnaire. Principal component factor analysis was used to derive dietary patterns, whose association with FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEF2575, and COPD was investigated by applying multivariate regression analyses. Results: After adjustment for potential confounders, the “prudent dietary pattern” characterised by the predominant food groups vegetables, fruits, water, tea and coffee, fish, and nuts was positively associated with FEV1 (increase of 40 mL per SD, p < 0.001). Also for factor 3 (“high-carbohydrate diet”), we found a significant positive association with FEV1 (with an increase per SD of 36 mL, p = 0.006). Conclusions: The main results are consistent with a protective effect of a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, and nuts against age-related chronic respiratory disease. If confirmed in prospective cohorts, our results may guide nutritional counselling towards respiratory health promotion.
In situ Effect of Arginine-Containing Dentifrice on Plaque Composition and on Enamel Demineralization under Distinct Cariogenic Conditions
Authors: Sanchez Angel Y. , de Oliveira Caroline L. , Negrini Thais C. , Hashizume Lina N. , Hara Anderson T. , Maltz Marisa , Arthur Rodrigo A.
Published: May 2018

There is limited evidence that arginine-containing fluoridated dentifrices (AFD) have a better anticaries effect than regular fluoridated dentifrices (FD), especially in subjects at a higher risk for caries development. This study aimed to assess the effect of AFD on enamel demineralization and on the microbial and biochemical compositions of biofilm formed under different frequencies of sucrose exposure. It consisted of an in situ split-mouth design, where 12 adult volunteers who used FD for at least 2 months prior to the beginning of this study wore acrylic palatal appliances containing 4 bovine enamel specimens (1 pair at each side of the appliance) during 2 phases of 14 days each. FD slurry (3×/day) and 20% sucrose solution (4× and 8×/day) were dripped on the specimens during the first experimental phase. The same volunteers then used AFD during a 2-month washout period, followed by a second experimental phase where the AFD slurry and sucrose solution were applied onto a new subset of specimens. The percentage of enamel surface hardness loss (%SHL), the lesion depth (LD), the integrated mineral loss (IML), microbial counts on biofilms, the biomass, and inorganic and insoluble extracellular polysaccharide (IEPS) biofilm concentrations were determined. Higher %SHL, biomass, and IEPS and lower fluoride values were found at sucrose 8×/day exposure. Lower IEPS were found in the presence of AFD compared to FD. Similar %SHL, LD, and IML values were found between FD and AFD, irrespectively of the cariogenic challenge. The results suggest that AFD have an anticaries effect similar to that of regular FD.
Perinatal Outcome and Long-Term Neurodevelopment after Intracranial Haemorrhage due to Fetal and Neonatal Alloimmune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Winkelhorst Dian , Kamphuis Marije M. , Steggerda Sylke J. , Rijken Monique , Oepkes Dick , Lopriore Enrico , van Klink Jeanine M.M.
Published: May 2018

Objectives: To evaluate the perinatal and long-term neurodevelopmental outcome in a cohort of children with intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) due to fetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) and to clearly outline the burden of this disease. Subjects and Methods: We performed an observational cohort study and included all consecutive cases of ICH caused by FNAIT from 1993 to 2015 at Leiden University Medical Centre. Neurological, motor, and cognitive development were assessed at a minimum age of 1 year. The primary outcome was adverse outcome, defined as perinatal death or severe neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI). Severe NDI was defined as any of the following: cerebral palsy (Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] level ≥II), bilateral deafness, blindness, or severe motor and/or cognitive developmental delay (<–2 SD). Results: In total, 21 cases of ICH due to FNAIT were included in the study. The perinatal mortality rate was 10/21 (48%). Long-term outcome was assessed in 10 children (n = 1 lost to follow-up). Severe and moderate NDI were diagnosed in 6/10 (60%) and 1/10 (10%) of the surviving children. The overall adverse outcome, including perinatal mortality or severe NDI, was 16/20 (80%). Conclusions: The risk of perinatal death or severe NDI in children with ICH due to FNAIT is high. Only screening and effective preventive treatment can avoid this burden.
Myxedema Coma due to Hashimoto Thyroiditis: A Rare but Real Presentation of Failure to Thrive in Infancy
Authors: Heksch Ryan A. , Henry Rohan K.
Published: May 2018

Background: Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) is uncommon in infancy, and myxedema coma (MC) is even less common. While prior reports have documented these entities separately, to our knowledge, MC in combination with HT has not been reported before in this age group. Methods/Results: A 10-month-old female presented with ptosis, lethargy, dysphagia, and failure to thrive (FTT). She developed hypotension, bradycardia, hypothermia, and apnea requiring intubation. Initial thyroid-stimulating hormone was 422 μIU/mL, and free thyroxine was < 0.5 ng/dL, despite the presence of a normal thyroid newborn screen (NBS). Of note, sepsis workup was unremarkable. With the diagnosis of MC, treatment with intravenous levothyroxine was initiated, although after hydrocortisone administration to avert the possibility of an adrenal crisis, despite a random cortisol of 16.4 μg/dL. Based on positive thyroid antibodies suggesting HT, autoimmune workup later revealed positive acetylcholinesterase antibodies consistent with a diagnosis of ocular myasthenia gravis. Conclusion: MC may be a cause of altered mental status in infancy and may simultaneously be associated with FTT on presentation. With the presence of a normal thyroid NBS, autoimmunity should be entertained as the etiology of profound hypothyroidism, as positive thyroid antibodies may prompt an exploration for coexisting diseases which may explain other presenting features.
Adolescent Undernutrition: Global Burden, Physiology, and Nutritional Risks
Authors: Christian Parul , Smith Emily R.
Published: May 2018

Background: Adolescents, comprised of 10–19 year olds, form the largest generation of young people in our history. There are an estimated 1.8 billion adolescents in the world, with 90% residing in low- and middle-income countries. The burden of disease among adolescents has its origins in infectious and injury-related causes, but nutritional deficiencies, suboptimal linear growth, and undernutrition are major public health problems, even as overweight may be on the rise in many contexts. Summary and Key Messages: Girls are most vulnerable to the influences of cultural and gender norms, which often discriminate against them. Dietary patterns and physical activity, in addition to schooling and countervailing social norms for early marriage, influence health and nutritional well-being of adolescents. Nutrient requirements – ­including those for energy, protein, iron, calcium, and ­others – increase in adolescence to support adequate growth and development. In settings where dietary intakes are suboptimal, anemia and micronutrient deficiencies are high. Endocrine factors are essential for promoting normal adolescent growth and are sensitive to undernutrition. Growth velocity increases during puberty when peak height velocity occurs and catch-up is possible; in girls, about 15–25% of adult height is attained. A premature pregnancy can halt linear growth and increase the risk of adverse birth outcomes. Research is needed to fill the huge data gaps related to nutrition and growth during adolescence, in addition to testing interventions during this second window of opportunity to enhance growth and development, improve human capital, and to end the intergenerational cycle of growth failure.
Resistin Regulates Fatty Acid Β Oxidation by Suppressing Expression of Peroxisome Proliferator Activator Receptor Gamma-Coactivator 1α (PGC-1α)
Authors: He Fang , Jin Jie-Qiong , Qin Qing-Qing , Zheng Yong-Qin , Li Ting-Ting , Zhang Yun , He Jun-Dong 
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Abnormal fatty acid β oxidation has been associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Resistin is an adipokine that has been considered as a potential factor in obesity-mediated insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. However, the effect of resistin on fatty acid β oxidation needs to be elucidated. Methods: We detected the effects of resistin on the expression of fatty acid oxidation (FAO) transcriptional regulatory genes, the fatty acid transport gene, and mitochondrial β-oxidation genes using real-time PCR. The rate of FAO was measured using 14C-palmitate. Immunofluorescence assay and western blot analysis were used to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. Results: Resistin leads to a reduction in expression of the FAO transcriptional regulatory genes ERRα and NOR1, the fatty acid transport gene CD36, and the mitochondrial β-oxidation genes CPT1, MCAD, and ACO. Importantly, treatment with resistin led to a reduction in the rate of cellular fatty acid oxidation. In addition, treatment with resistin reduced phosphorylation of acetyl CoA carboxylase (ACC) (inhibitory). Mechanistically, resistin inhibited the activation of CREB, resulting in suppression of PGC-1α. Importantly, overexpressing PGC-1α can rescue the inhibitory effects of resistin on fatty acid β oxidation. Conclusions: Activating the transcriptional activity of CREB using small molecular chemicals is a potential pharmacological strategy for preventing the inhibitory effects of resistin on fatty acid β oxidation.
An Intersectional Study of LncRNAs and mRNAs Reveals the Potential Therapeutic Targets of Buyang Huanwu Decoction in Experimental Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Cui Hanjin , Liu Tao , Li Pengfei , Yang Ali , Zhou Huajun , Luo Jiekun , Hu En , Hu Wang , Wang Yang , Tang Tao
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Both experimental and clinical studies have revealed satisfactory effects of the traditional Chinese formula Buyang Huanwu decoction (BYHWD) in improving post-intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) neurological deficiencies. However, the multifaceted mechanisms of BYHWD in ICH treatment are not comprehensively understood. The present study explored various therapeutic targets of BYHWD by using lncRNA and mRNA transcriptomics. Methods: LncRNA and mRNA microarrays were used to identify differentially expressed genes. ICH-induced upregulated genes (ICH vs sham) and BYHWD-induced downregulated genes (BYHWD vs ICH) were first identified. The intersection between these 2 sets was determined to identify ICH-induced highly expressed genes that were reversed by BYHWD. Then, the genes downregulated after ICH and the genes upregulated after BYHWD treatment were used to generate another set of intersections. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses were subsequently performed to determine relative biological functions and signaling transduction pathways according to genes within the intersections. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to validate changes in gene expression observed using the microarray. Finally, a lncRNA-mRNA co-expression network was established to identify links among the genes within the intersections. Results: A total of 18 differentially expressed lncRNAs and 33 differentially expressed mRNAs were identified using 2 lncRNA arrays (ICH vs sham and BYHWD vs ICH). The altered genes were enriched in the hemoglobin complex, oxygen transport and oxygen transporter and were closely associated with pyruvate metabolism. The co-expression network consisted of 53 nodes and 595 connections (308 positive interactions and 287 negative interactions). Conclusion: The hemoglobin complex, oxygen transport, oxygen transporter activity and pyruvate metabolism are possible therapeutic targets of BYHWD in ICH treatment. The present study provides the basis and direction for future investigations to explore the mechanisms by which BYHWD protects against long-term neurological deficiencies after ICH.
De mediações em mediações: a questão da tecnicidade em Martín-Barbero
Authors: Girardi Júnior Liráucio
Published: May 2018

In this article, we will analyze the epistemological turn proposed by Martín-Barbero when he shifted his attention from the cultural mediations of the communication to the communicative mediations of the culture. The main focus of the analysis will be on the importance that the notion of technicality – alongside institutionality, sociality, and rituality – had in this epistemological turn. His notion of technicality will be put in the discussion here by some studies on new media and materiality of communication.
Dos meios às mediações: Jesús Martín-Barbero na teoria da comunicação da Unisinos
Authors: Gomes Pedro Gilberto
Published: May 2018

This text, a mixture of essay and memory, seeks to situate Jesús Martín-Barbero and his influence in the teaching of communication theory in the courses of social communication in Brazil, based on the work developed at Center of Communication Sciences of the University of Vale do Rio dos Sinos (UNISINOS). The thinking of Martín-Barbero is put together with other seminal thinkers of the area in Latin America: Beltran, Kaplún and Pasquali. It reflects the course taken before the book, De las medios a las mediaciones, emphasizing Jesús Martín-Barbero’s fundamental contribution to teaching and communication research.
Consumo de hortaliças e sua relação com os alimentos ultraprocessados no Brasil
Authors: Canella Daniela Silva , Louzada Maria Laura da Costa , Claro Rafael Moreira , Costa Janaina Calu , Bandoni Daniel Henrique , Levy Renata Bertazzi , Martins Ana Paula Bortoletto
Published: May 2018

OBJETIVO: Caracterizar a aquisição domiciliar e o consumo alimentar individual de hortaliças no Brasil e analisar sua relação com o consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados dados de aquisição de alimentos para consumo no domicílio e de consumo alimentar individual da Pesquisa de Orçamentos Familiares 2008–2009. A Pesquisa de Orçamentos Familiares estudou a aquisição de alimentos de 55.970 domicílios e o consumo alimentar de 34.003 indivíduos com 10 anos ou mais de idade. Os alimentos de interesse neste estudo foram as hortaliças (excluindo raízes e tubérculos) e os alimentos ultraprocessados. A quantidade de hortaliças (gramas) adquiridas e consumidas foi descrita para o conjunto dos brasileiros e segundo quintos da participação calórica de alimentos ultraprocessados na alimentação. Para tanto, foram calculados os valores brutos e preditos, obtidos por modelos de regressão ajustados por variáveis sociodemográficas. Analisaram-se os tipos mais adquiridos de hortaliças (% na quantidade total) e, em relação ao consumo alimentar individual, a variedade de hortaliças consumidas (número absoluto), a participação (%) dos tipos de preparação culinária à base de hortaliças e os horários de consumo. RESULTADOS: A aquisição domiciliar média ajustada de hortaliças foi 42,9 g/per capita/dia. O consumo individual médio ajustado foi 46,1 g. Verificou-se relação inversa entre aquisição domiciliar e consumo individual de hortaliças e de alimentos ultraprocessados. Dez tipos de hortaliças respondem por mais de 80% da quantidade total habitualmente adquirida. A variedade consumida foi, em média, 1,08 tipo/per capita/dia. Cerca de 60% das hortaliças foram consumidas cruas, sendo a quantidade consumida no almoço duas vezes maior que aquela do jantar e indivíduos com maior consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados tenderam a consumir quantidade ainda menor de hortaliças no jantar. CONCLUSÕES: O consumo de hortaliças no Brasil é insuficiente, sendo pior entre indivíduos com maior consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados. O hábito mais frequente foi consumir hortaliças cruas, no almoço e com limitada variedade.