bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MG53 suppresses tumor progression and stress granule formation by modulating G3BP2 activity in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Li Haichang , Lin Pei-Hui , Gupta Pranav , Li Xiangguang , Zhao Serena Li , Zhou Xinyu , Li Zhongguang , Wei Shengcai , Xu Li , Han Renzhi , Lu Jing , Tan Tao , Yang Dong-Hua , Chen Zhe-Sheng , Pawlik Timothy M. , Merritt Robert E. , Ma Jianjie
Published: September 2021

Background

Cancer cells develop resistance to chemotherapeutic intervention by excessive formation of stress granules (SGs), which are modulated by an oncogenic protein G3BP2. Selective control of G3BP2/SG signaling is a potential means to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Co-immunoprecipitation was conducted to identify the interaction of MG53 and G3BP2. Immunohistochemistry and live cell imaging were performed to visualize the subcellular expression or co-localization. We used shRNA to knock-down the expression MG53 or G3BP2 to test the cell migration and colony formation. The expression level of MG53 and G3BP2 in human NSCLC tissues was tested by western blot analysis. The ATO-induced oxidative stress model was used to examine the effect of rhMG53 on SG formation. Moue NSCLC allograft experiments were performed on wild type and transgenic mice with either knockout of MG53, or overexpression of MG53. Human NSCLC xenograft model in mice was used to evaluate the effect of MG53 overexpression on tumorigenesis.

Results

We show that MG53, a member of the TRIM protein family (TRIM72), modulates G3BP2 activity to control lung cancer progression. Loss of MG53 results in the progressive development of lung cancer in mg53-/- mice. Transgenic mice with sustained elevation of MG53 in the bloodstream demonstrate reduced tumor growth following allograft transplantation of mouse NSCLC cells. Biochemical assay reveals physical interaction between G3BP2 and MG53 through the TRIM domain of MG53. Knockdown of MG53 enhances proliferation and migration of NSCLC cells, whereas reduced tumorigenicity is seen in NSCLC cells with knockdown of G3BP2 expression. The recombinant human MG53 (rhMG53) protein can enter the NSCLC cells to induce nuclear translation of G3BP2 and block arsenic trioxide-induced SG formation. The anti-proliferative effect of rhMG53 on NSCLC cells was abolished with knockout of G3BP2. rhMG53 can enhance sensitivity of NSCLC cells to undergo cell death upon treatment with cisplatin. Tailored induction of MG53 expression in NSCLC cells suppresses lung cancer growth via reduced SG formation in a xenograft model.

Conclusion

Overall, these findings support the notion that MG53 functions as a tumor suppressor by targeting G3BP2/SG activity in NSCLCs.
UHPLC-MS-MS analysis of oxylipins metabolomics components of follicular fluid in infertile individuals with diminished ovarian reserve
Authors: Liang Chengcheng , Zhang Xiaole , Qi Cong , Hu Hui , Zhang Qinhua , Zhu Xiuxian , Fu Yonglun
Published: September 2021

Background

Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) refers to a decrease in the number and quality of oocytes in the ovary, which results in a lack of sex hormones and a decline of fertility in women. DOR can potentially progress to premature ovarian failure (POF), which has a negative impact on women's quality of life and is a major cause of female infertility. Oxidative stress is a major contributor to fertility decrease in DOR patients, affecting the follicular microenvironment, oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo development. Understanding intracellular signal transduction can be achieved by defining specific oxidized lipid components in follicular fluid (FF) of DOR infertile patients.

Methods

The oxylipins metabolic signatures in the FF of DOR patients and females with normal ovarian reserve (NOR) enrolled for the in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle were analyzed using UHPLC-MS-MS technology. Principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal projections to latent structure discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were used to analyze the derived metabolomic profiles. Pathway enrichment analysis was carried out using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and MetaboAnalyst databases. Furthermore, the Spearman rank correlation coefficient was used to determine the correlation between age, FSH, AMH, AFC, oocytes retrieved, MII oocytes, fertilization, high-quality embryos, and the concentration of differential oxidized lipid metabolites in FF.

Results

Fifteen oxylipins metabolites were found to be lower in the FF of DOR patients than those in the NOR group, including ±20-HDoHE, ±5-iso PGF2α-VI, 12S-HHTrE, 15-deoxy-Δ12,14-PGJ2, 1a,1b-dihomo PGE2, 1a,1b-dihomo PGF2α, 20-COOH-AA, 20-HETE, 8S,15S-DiHETE, PGA2, PGD2, PGE1, PGF1α, PGF2α, and PGJ2. The pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the 15 differentially oxidized lipid metabolites were closely related to the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway. Correlation analysis revealed that the concentration of 8 different oxidized lipid metabolites in FF was negatively correlated to FSH and positively correlated with AFC. AMH, the number of oocytes retrieved, MII oocytes and fertilization, were all positively correlated with 9 different oxidized lipid metabolites, but only one metabolite was positively correlated with the number of high-quality embryos.

Conclusions

Metabolomic analysis of FF revealed that oxylipins metabolism disorders were closely related to ovarian reserve function. Among these oxylipins metabolites, arachidonic acid metabolism undergoes significant changes that may be related to oocyte development, resulting in decreased fertility in DOR patients.

Trial registration

ChiCTR, ChiCTR2000038182, Registered 12 September 2020-Retrospectively registered
Eating behaviour and weight development of European and Asian seafarers during stay on board and at home
Authors: Neumann Felix Alexander , Belz Lukas , Dengler Dorothee , Harth Volker , von Münster Thomas , Westenhöfer Joachim , Oldenburg Marcus , Zyriax Birgit-Christiane
Published: September 2021

Background

Food choices on board merchant ships are limited and seafarers repeatedly described as being at high risk of developing overweight compared to the general population. Up to date, research has not distinguished whether seafarers gain weight on board or at home and whether eating habits differ in both settings.

Methods

As part of the e-healthy ship project, cross-sectional data were collected in two different measurements. In the first investigation on board of three merchant ships of German shipping companies, differences in eating behaviour at home compared to on board ships were assessed for 18 Burmese, 26 Filipino and 20 European seafarers. In a second study, BMI, weight development and location of body weight change of 543 Filipino and 277 European seafarers were examined using an online questionnaire on 68 ships.

Results

According to the board examinations, foods and beverages consumed on merchant ships varied widely from seafarers’ diets in their home country. Burmese, Filipino and European seafarers equally reported to consume more fruit (z = 4.95, p < .001, r = .62) and vegetables (z = 6.21, p < .001, r = .79), but less coke (z = −5.00, p < .001, r = .76) when at home. Furthermore, culturally different changes were found across all other foods and beverages. The online questionnaire revealed that 45.8% of seafarers were overweight (55.4% Europeans vs. 40.8% Filipinos, p < .001) and 9.8% obese. Moreover, a higher percentage of Europeans compared to Filipinos reported weight gain over the course of their professional career (50.2% vs. 40.7%, p = .007). A sub-analysis of seafarers with weight gain found that more Europeans than Filipinos gained weight at home (43.9% vs. 23.1%, p < .001).

Conclusions

Both, home and working on board merchant ships, represent very different living environments which may affect seafarers’ lifestyle and eating habits in various ways and thus could favour or inhibit weight gain. From our results, it appears that the body weight and eating habits of Asian seafarers in particular are adversely affected by the working and living conditions on board. Further prospective studies are required to prove this hypothesis.
Peripheral pure ground-glass opacity: segmentectomy versus wedge resection
Authors: Luo Taobo , Chen Qixun , Zeng Jian , Cai Lei , Huang Xiancong
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Sublobar resection has been widely accepted for treating pure ground-glass opacities (GGOs). As GGOs have good prognosis, preserving postoperative pulmonary function is the major concern in surgery. No studies have yet compared the success rates of pulmonary function reservation between segmentectomy and wedge resection.

Method

The three-dimensional rebuild of computed tomography (CT) images was performed, the segmentectomy and wedge resection of the GGO in the target segment were simulated, and the area of cut surface was measured, which was important data for successful postoperative pulmonary recruitment maneuvers.

Result

With equal volumes of tissue removed, segmentectomy and wedge resection showed similar surface area loss for RS4 and RS5, followed by LS7 + 8, LS6 and LS1 + 2 segments. Compared with other segments, wedge resection performed in RS10, LS3, LS10, RS9 and RS7 may lead to a loss of lot more surface area than segmentectomy.

Conclusion

Wedge resection is suggested for segments RS4, RS5, LS1 + 2 and LS7 + 8, whereas segmentectomy is advised for segments RS1, LS4 + 5 and RS2. Meanwhile, deep wedge resection should be avoided for segments RS8, RS7, RS10, LS3, LS10. RS9 and LS9, in order to preserve a larger lung surface area.
Acid resistance system CadBA is implicated in acid tolerance and biofilm formation and is identified as a new virulence factor of Edwardsiella tarda
Authors: Du Chunmei , Huo Xiaoping , Gu Hanjie , Wu Dongmei , Hu Yonghua
Published: September 2021

Edwardsiella tarda is a facultative intracellular pathogen in humans and animals. The Gram-negative bacterium is widely considered a potentially important bacterial pathogen. Adaptation to acid stress is important for the transmission of intestinal microbes, so the acid-resistance (AR) system is essential. However, the AR systems of E. tarda are totally unknown. In this study, a lysine-dependent acid resistance (LDAR) system in E. tarda, CadBA, was characterized and identified. CadB is a membrane protein and shares high homology with the lysine/cadaverine antiporter. CadA contains a PLP-binding core domain and a pyridoxal phosphate-binding motif. It shares high homology with lysine decarboxylase. cadB and cadA are co-transcribed under one operon. To study the function of the cadBA operon, isogenic cadA, cadB and cadBA deletion mutant strains TX01ΔcadA, TX01ΔcadB and TX01ΔcadBA were constructed. When cultured under normal conditions, the wild type strain and three mutants exhibited the same growth performance. However, when cultured under acid conditions, the growth of three mutants, especially TX01ΔcadA, were obviously retarded, compared to the wild strain TX01, which indicates the important involvement of the cadBA operon in acid resistance. The deletion of cadB or cadA, especially cadBA, significantly attenuated bacterial activity of lysine decarboxylase, suggesting the vital participation of cadBA operon in lysine metabolism, which is closely related to acid resistance. The mutations of cadBA operon enhanced bacterial biofilm formation, especially under acid conditions. The deletions of the cadBA operon reduced bacterial adhesion and invasion to Hela cells. Consistently, the deficiency of cadBA operon abated bacterial survival and replication in macrophages, and decreased bacterial dissemination in fish tissues. Our results also show that the expression of cadBA operon and regulator cadC were up-regulated upon acid stress, and CadC rigorously regulated the expression of cadBA operon, especially under acid conditions. These findings demonstrate that the AR CadBA system was a requisite for the resistance of E. tarda against acid stress, and played a critical role in bacterial infection of host cells and in host tissues. This is the first study about the acid resistance system of E. tarda and provides new insights into the acid-resistance mechanism and pathogenesis of E. tarda.
Early weight gain trajectories in first episode anorexia: predictors of outcome for emerging adults in outpatient treatment
Authors: Austin A. , Flynn M. , Richards K. L. , Sharpe H. , Allen K. L. , Mountford V. A. , Glennon D. , Grant N. , Brown A. , Mahoney K. , Serpell L. , Brady G. , Nunes N. , Connan F. , Franklin-Smith M. , Schelhase M. , Jones W. R. , Breen G. , Schmidt U.
Published: September 2021

Background

Early response to treatment has been shown to be a predictor of later clinical outcomes in eating disorders (EDs). Specifically, early weight gain trajectories in anorexia nervosa (AN) have been shown to predict higher rates of later remission in inpatient treatment. However, no study has, as of yet, examined this phenomenon within outpatient treatment of first episode cases of AN or in emerging adults.

Methods

One hundred seven patients with AN, all between the ages of 16 and 25 and with an illness duration of < 3 years, received treatment via the first episode rapid early intervention in eating disorders (FREED) service pathway. Weight was recorded routinely across early treatment sessions and recovery outcomes (BMI > 18.5 kg/m2 and eating psychopathology) were assessed up to 1 year later. Early weight gain across the first 12 treatment sessions was investigated using latent growth mixture modelling to determine distinct classes of change. Follow-up clinical outcomes and remission rates were compared between classes, and individual and clinical characteristics at baseline (treatment start) were tested as potential predictors.

Results

Four classes of early treatment trajectory were identified. Three of these classes (n = 95), though differing in their early change trajectories, showed substantial improvement in clinical outcomes at final follow-up. One smaller class (n = 12), characterised by a ‘higher’ start BMI (> 17) and no early weight gain, showed negligible improvement 1 year later. Of the three treatment responding groups, levels of purging, depression, and patient reported carer expressed emotion (in the form of high expectations and low tolerance of the patient) determined class membership, although these findings were not significant after correcting for multiple testing. A higher BMI at treatment start was not sufficient to predict optimal clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

First episode cases of AN treated via FREED fit into four distinct early response trajectory classes. These may represent subtypes of first episode AN patients. Three of these four trajectories included patients with substantial improvements 1 year later. For those in the non-response trajectory class, treatment adjustments or augmentations could be considered earlier, i.e., at treatment session 12.
Analyses and findings of unusual substitute materials in a raincoat from WWII
Authors: Lauridsen Clara Bratt , Brock-Nannestad Theis , Simonsen Kim Pilkjær
Published: September 2021

Due to the coating materials used, historic raincoats are vulnerable to degradation and rarely survive long periods of time. The investigated raincoat dating from 1943 is no exception—the coating is unusually stiff and flaking off in areas around folds and cracks. Study into its material composition can contribute to important knowledge of the availability of materials for waterproof clothing during the time of the German occupation of Denmark (1940–1945) when the usual materials for raincoats, cotton fabric and rubber, were in short supply. Optical microscopy and attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) identified the fabric to consist of rayon staple fibres and paper yarn, and the coating to be based on cellulose nitrate (CN) lacquer and an unknown plasticiser. Though the results are atypical for a raincoat, they are in good accordance with the raw materials available in Denmark in 1943. Analysis by matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionisation mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS), and 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), identified the plasticiser as poly(1,3-butylene) adipate. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) moreover identified the pigment as titanium white of the anatase form. By historical discussion, this study argues that IG Farben is the likely producer of poly(1,3-butylene) adipate, even though the first known marketing of the plasticiser is from 1986 where the Swiss firm Ciba-Geigy introduced poly(1,3-butylene) adipate as a plasticiser for PVC cling films under the tradename Reoplex® 346. The results give an interesting insight into the use of substitution products during WWII and provide new information on polymer science of the time.
Towards equality: joining forces with arts and culture in the struggle for change in migration societies
Authors: Sievers Wiebke
Published: September 2021

There is a tendency in migration research to view artistic and cultural practices of immigrants and their descendants as well as the research of such practices as less relevant for our understanding of migration. This explains why it has long been a neglected area of research in the social sciences, as Marco Martiniello explains in his contribution to this volume. The present article argues that drawing such boundaries prevents us from seeing the joint aims not only of migration research in the social sciences and the humanities, but also of this research and the arts. It prevents us from seeing the potential of joining forces in our struggle for change towards more equal societies. The article explains how social science research and artistic and cultural practices can be regarded as two supplementary methods of struggling for equality that together have a greater chance of reaching this aim. Artistic and cultural practices contribute perspectives for changing community narratives to this process of change. These are essential for political and social change as they are championed in the social sciences.
Patient and family engagement in the development of core outcome sets for two rare chronic diseases in children
Authors: Vanderhout Shelley M. , Smith Maureen , Pallone Nicole , Tingley Kylie , Pugliese Michael , Chakraborty Pranesh , Stockler Sylvia , Offringa Martin , Butcher Nancy , Nicholls Stuart G. , Potter Beth K.
Published: September 2021

Background

Core outcome sets (COS) are lists of consensus-determined outcomes to be measured and reported in all clinical research studies within a disease area. While including patients and families in COS development to improve their relevance and applicability to patient values is key, there is limited literature documenting practical barriers and facilitators to successful patient engagement in COS development. In this paper, as researchers and patient partners, we provide a resource for COS developers to meaningfully and effectively engage patients and families.

Main body

To establish a consensus-based COS for children with two inherited metabolic diseases (medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency and phenylketonuria), we conducted an evidence review, Delphi survey, and workshop. Two adult patient partner co-investigators co-developed the study protocol, co-designed strategies to address challenges with incorporating patient perspectives, and led all patient engagement activities, including communication with a group of family advisors. Seven adult family advisors received training about COS development and subsequently contributed to Delphi survey development, outcome definitions, the consensus workshop, and selection of outcome measurement instruments. Patient partner co-investigators and family advisors were essential to the successful design, conduct, and completion of the two COS. Patient partner co-investigators supported the understanding, inclusion and engagement of family advisors, and helped develop accessible tools to determine patient-oriented outcome measurement instruments. Patient partner co-investigators and family advisors collaborated with the study team to co-develop surveys, modify technical language, and recruit participants to the study. Together, we addressed challenges to patient engagement in COS development such as unfamiliarity with study methods, comprehensibility of materials and ongoing engagement, and power imbalances between team members.

Conclusion

Our approach to patient and family engagement in COS development for two rare conditions for children was feasible and considered valuable by all study team members, including patients and family members, in improving the relevance of the deliverable to patients. This approach to patient engagement in developing COS can be applied to other paediatric disease contexts, allowing patient and family perspectives to influence the direction of future studies to develop COS.
The unidirectional phylogeny of Homo sapiens anchors the origin of modern humans in Eurasia
Authors: Árnason Úlfur
Published: September 2021

Background

The Out of Africa hypothesis, OOAH, was challenged recently in an extended mtDNA analysis, PPA (Progressive Phylogenetic Analysis), that identified the African human populations as paraphyletic, a finding that contradicted the common OOAH understanding that Hss had originated in Africa and invaded Eurasia from there. The results were consistent with the molecular Out of Eurasia hypothesis, OOEH, and Eurasian palaeontology, a subject that has been largely disregarded in the discussion of OOAH.

Results

In the present study the mtDNA tree, a phylogeny based on maternal inheritance, was compared to the nuclear DNA tree of the paternally transmitted Y-chromosome haplotypes, Y-DNAs. The comparison showed full phylogenetic coherence between these two separate sets of data. The results were consistent with potentially four translocations of modern humans from Eurasia into Africa, the earliest taking place ≈ 250,000 years before present, YBP. The results were in accordance with the postulates behind OOEH at the same time as they lent no support to the OOAH.

Conclusions

The conformity between the mtDNA and Y-DNA phylogenies of Hss is consistent with the understanding that Eurasia was the donor and not the receiver in human evolution. The evolutionary problems related to OOAH became similarly exposed by the mtDNA introgression that took place from Hss into Neanderthals ≈ 500,000 YBP, a circumstance that demonstrated the early coexistence of the two lineages in Eurasia.
Does vaporized hydrogen peroxide sterilization affect the geometrical properties of anatomic models and guides 3D printed from computed tomography images?
Authors: Toro Mauricio , Cardona Aura , Restrepo Daniel , Buitrago Laura
Published: September 2021

Background

Material extrusion is used to 3D print anatomic models and guides. Sterilization is required if a 3D printed part touches the patient during an intervention. Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP) is one method of sterilization. There are four factors to consider when sterilizing an anatomic model or guide: sterility, biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and geometric fidelity. This project focuses on geometric fidelity for material extrusion of one polymer acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) using VHP.

Methods

De-identified computed tomography (CT) image data from 16 patients was segmented using Mimics Innovation Suite (Materialise NV, Leuven, Belgium). Eight patients had maxillary and mandibular defects depicted with the anatomic models, and eight had mandibular defects for the anatomic guides. Anatomic models and guides designed from the surfaces of CT scan reconstruction and segementation were 3D printed in medical-grade acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material extrusion. The 16 parts underwent low-temperature sterilization with VHP. The dimensional error was estimated after sterilization by comparing scanned images of the 3D printed parts.

Results

The average of the estimated mean differences between the printed pieces before and after sterilization were − 0,011 ± 0,252 mm (95%CI − 0,011; − 0,010) for the models and 0,003 ± 0,057 mm (95%CI 0,002; 0,003) for the guides. Regarding the dimensional error of the sterilized parts compared to the original design, the estimated mean differences were − 0,082 ± 0,626 mm (95%CI − 0,083; − 0,081) for the models and 0,126 ± 0,205 mm (95%CI 0,126, 0,127) for the guides.

Conclusion

This project tested and verified dimensional stability, one of the four prerequisites for introducing vaporized hydrogen peroxide into 3D printing of anatomic models and guides; the 3D printed parts maintained dimensional stability after sterilization.
Impact of COVID-19 restrictions on alcohol consumption behaviours
Authors: Palmer Emily O. C. , Trender William , Tyacke Robin J. , Hampshire Adam , Lingford-Hughes Anne
Published: September 2021

Background

We aimed to evaluate how coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions had altered individual's drinking behaviours, including consumption, hangover experiences, and motivations to drink, and changing levels of depression and anxiety.

Method

We conducted an online cross-sectional self-report survey. Whole group analysis compared pre- versus post-COVID restrictions. A correlation coefficient matrix evaluated the associations between all outcome scores. Self-report data was compared with Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores from the 2014 Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey. Multiple linear modelling (MLM) was calculated to identify factors associated with increasing AUDIT scores and post-restriction AUDIT scores.

Results

In total, 346 individuals completed the survey, of which 336 reported drinking and were therefore analysed. After COVID-19 restrictions 23.2% of respondents reported an increased AUDIT score, and 60.1% a decreased score. AUDIT score change was positively correlated with change in depression (P < 0.01, r = 0.15), anxiety (P < 0.01, r = 0.15) and drinking to cope scores (P < 0.0001, r = 0.35). MLM revealed that higher AUDIT scores were associated with age, mental illness, lack of a garden, self-employed or furloughed individuals, a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis and smoking status.

Conclusions

COVID-19 restrictions decreased alcohol consumption for the majority of individuals in this study. However, a small proportion increased their consumption; this related to drinking to cope and increased depression and anxiety.
Development of a psychological intervention for people with bipolar disorder in rural Ethiopia
Authors: Demissie Mekdes , Hanlon Charlotte , Ng Lauren , Mayston Rosie , Abayneh Sisay , Fekadu Abebaw
Published: September 2021

Background

Evidence from high- and middle-income countries indicates that psychological interventions (PSIs) can improve the well-being of people with bipolar disorder. However, there is no evidence from low-income countries. Cultural and contextual adaptation is recommended to ensure that PSIs are feasible and acceptable when transferred to new settings, and to maximise effectiveness.

Aims

To develop a manualised PSI for people with bipolar disorder in rural Ethiopia.

Method

We used the Medical Research Council framework for the development and evaluation of complex interventions and integrated a participatory theory-of-change (ToC) approach. We conducted a mental health expert workshop (n = 12), four independent ToC workshops and a final workshop with all participants. The four independent ToC workshops comprised people with bipolar disorder and caregivers (n = 19), male community leaders (n = 8), female community leaders (n = 11) and primary care workers (n = 21).

Results

During the workshops, participants collaborated on the development of a ToC roadmap to achieve the shared goal of improved quality of life and reduced family burden for people with bipolar disorder. The developed PSI had five sessions: needs assessment and goal-setting; psychoeducation about bipolar disorder and its causes; treatment; promotion of well-being, including sleep hygiene and problem-solving techniques; and behavioural techniques to reduce anxiety and prevent relapse. Participants suggested that the intervention sessions be linked with patients’ monthly scheduled healthcare follow-ups, to reduce economic barriers to access.

Conclusions

We developed a contextually appropriate PSI for people with bipolar disorder in rural Ethiopia. This intervention will now be piloted for feasibility and acceptability before its wider implementation.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta: The Impact of Genotype and Clinical Phenotype on Adiposity and Resting Energy Expenditure
Authors: Ballenger Kaitlin L , Tugarinov Nicol , Talvacchio Sara K , Knue Marianne M , Dang Do An N , Ahlman Mark A , Reynolds James C , Yanovski Jack A , Marini Joan C
Published: September 2021

Context

Mutations in type I collagen or collagen-related proteins cause osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). Energy expenditure and body composition in OI could reflect reduced mobility or intrinsic defects in osteoblast differentiation increasing adipocyte development.

Objective

This study compares adiposity and resting energy expenditure (REE) in OI and healthy controls (HC), for OI genotype- and Type-associated differences.

Methods

We studied 90 participants, 30 with OI (11 COL1A1 Gly, 8 COL1A2 Gly, 4 COL1A1 non-Gly, 1 COL1A2 non-Gly, 6 non-COL; 8 Type III, 16 Type IV, 4 Type VI, 1 Type VII, 1 Type XIV) and 60 HC with sociodemographic characteristics/BMI/BMIz similar to the OI group. Participants underwent dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry to determine lean mass and fat mass percentage (FM%) and REE. FM% and REE were compared, adjusting for covariates, to examine the relationship of OI genotypes and phenotypic Types.

Results

FM% did not differ significantly in all patients with OI vs HC (OI: 36.6% ± 1.9%; HC: 32.7% ± 1.2%; P = 0.088). FM% was, however, greater than HC for those with non-COL variants (P = 0.016). FM% did not differ from HC among OI Types (P values > 0.05).

Overall, covariate-adjusted REE did not differ significantly between OI and HC (OI: 1376.5 ± 44.7 kcal/d; HC: 1377.0 ± 96 kcal/d; P = 0.345). However, those with non-COL variants (P = 0.016) and Type VI OI (P = 0.04) had significantly lower REE than HC.

Conclusion

Overall, patients with OI did not significantly differ in either extra-marrow adiposity or REE from BMI-similar HC. However, reduced REE among those with non-COL variants may contribute to greater adiposity.
Myostatin/Activin Receptor Ligands in Muscle and the Development Status of Attenuating Drugs
Authors: Rodgers Buel D , Ward Christopher W
Published: September 2021

Muscle wasting disease indications are among the most debilitating and often deadly noncommunicable disease states. As a comorbidity, muscle wasting is associated with different neuromuscular diseases and myopathies, cancer, heart failure, chronic pulmonary and renal diseases, peripheral neuropathies, inflammatory disorders, and, of course, musculoskeletal injuries. Current treatment strategies are relatively ineffective and can at best only limit the rate of muscle degeneration. This includes nutritional supplementation and appetite stimulants as well as immunosuppressants capable of exacerbating muscle loss. Arguably, the most promising treatments in development attempt to disrupt myostatin and activin receptor signaling because these circulating factors are potent inhibitors of muscle growth and regulators of muscle progenitor cell differentiation. Indeed, several studies demonstrated the clinical potential of “inhibiting the inhibitors,” increasing muscle cell protein synthesis, decreasing degradation, enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis, and preserving muscle function. Such changes can prevent muscle wasting in various disease animal models yet many drugs targeting this pathway failed during clinical trials, some from serious treatment-related adverse events and off-target interactions. More often, however, failures resulted from the inability to improve muscle function despite preserving muscle mass. Drugs still in development include antibodies and gene therapeutics, all with different targets and thus, safety, efficacy, and proposed use profiles. Each is unique in design and, if successful, could revolutionize the treatment of both acute and chronic muscle wasting. They could also be used in combination with other developing therapeutics for related muscle pathologies or even metabolic diseases.
Downregulation of the Tem1 GTPase by Amn1 after cytokinesis involves both nuclear import and SCF-mediated degradation
Authors: Devault Alain , Piatti Simonetta
Published: September 2021

At mitotic exit the cell cycle engine is reset to allow crucial processes, such as cytokinesis and replication origin licensing, to take place before a new cell cycle begins. In budding yeast, the cell cycle clock is reset by a Hippo-like kinase cascade called the mitotic exit network (MEN), whose activation is triggered at spindle pole bodies (SPBs) by the Tem1 GTPase. Yet, MEN activity must be extinguished once MEN-dependent processes have been accomplished. One factor contributing to switching off the MEN is the Amn1 protein, which binds Tem1 and inhibits it through an unknown mechanism. Here, we show that Amn1 downregulates Tem1 through a dual mode of action. On one side, it evicts Tem1 from SPBs and escorts it into the nucleus. On the other, it promotes Tem1 degradation as part of a Skp, Cullin and F-box-containing (SCF) ubiquitin ligase. Tem1 inhibition by Amn1 takes place after cytokinesis in the bud-derived daughter cell, consistent with its asymmetric appearance in the daughter cell versus the mother cell. This dual mechanism of Tem1 inhibition by Amn1 may contribute to the rapid extinguishing of MEN activity once it has fulfilled its functions.
Comparison of Plantar Sensitivity, Dynamic Balance, and Lower Extremity Joint Range of Motion Between Experienced Female Ballet Dancers and Female Non-Dancing Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alfuth Martin , Luetkecosmann Julia , Knicker Axel
Published: September 2021

Objectives: Ballet dancers may increasingly use plantar sensory feedback to control foot position and movement during dance activities. Balance and joint range of motion (ROM) are important factors in ballet and may be related to plantar sensation in ballet dancers. Data on related
functions of female ballet dancers compared to female non-dancing athletes are sparse. The aims of the study were twofold: 1. the relationships between plantar sensitivity and dynamic balance as well as between joint ROM and dynamic balance were determined in experienced female ballet dancers
and female non-dancing athletes; and 2. the differences of plantar sensation, joint ROM of the lower limb, and dynamic balance between experienced female ballet dancers and female non-dancing athletes were investigated.Study Design: In this cross-sectional study, 21 subjects (11 experienced
female ballet dancers and 10 female non-dancing athletes; median age: 23, range: 11 years; median body height: 1.7 m, range: 0.2 m; median body mass: 59 kg, range: 36 kg) were included. Plantar sensitivity was determined by Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments, active ranges of motion of the hip,
knee, and ankle joints were measured using a goniometer and dynamic balance was assessed by the Y-Balance test. Correlations between outcome measures were determined in both groups. Outcome measures were compared between ballet dancers and non-dancing athletes using parametric or non-parametric
statistical tests (α = 0.05).Results: For the fifth metatarsal head and the heel, higher correlations between plantar sensitivity and Y-Balance test scores in non-dancing athletes compared to ballet dancers were found. Higher correlations between joint ROM and Y-Balance test scores
were determined for certain movements in non-dancing athletes compared to ballet dancers. A significantly lower cutaneous threshold was only found for the fifth metatarsal head in ballet dancers compared to non-ballet dancers (p < 0.05). Range of motion was significantly higher in ballet
dancers for almost all movements (p < 0.05). Ballet dancers showed significantly higher normalized scores of the Y-Balance test (p ≤ .001).Conclusions: Results of correlation analyses may indicate that non-dancing athletes increasingly must rely on plantar sensation of the fifth
metatarsal head and the heel while maintaining dynamic balance compared to ballet dancers, especially in posterolateral direction of the Y-Balance test. Active joint range of motion of the lower extremity and dynamic balance differ between female ballet dancers and non-dancing athletes. Plantar
sensitivity is not different for most of the assessed localizations.
The scaling of PGA with IV2p and its potential for Earthquake Early Warning in Thessaly (Central Greece)
Authors: Spingos Ioannis , Vallianatos Filippos , Kaviris George
Published: September 2021

The main goal of an Earthquake Early Warning System (EEWS) is to estimate the expected peak ground motion of the destructive S-waves using the first few seconds of P-waves, thus becoming an operational tool for real-time seismic risk management in a short timescale. EEWSs are based on the use of scaling relations between parameters measured on the initial portion of the seismic signal, after the arrival of the first wave. Herein, using the abundant seismicity that followed the 3 March 2021 Mw=6.3 earthquake in Thessaly we propose scaling relations for PGA, from data recorded by local permanent stations, as a function of the integral of the squared velocity (IV2p). The IV2p parameter was estimated directly from the first few seconds-long signal window (tw) after the P-wave arrival. Scaling laws are extrapolated for both individual and across sites (i.e., between a near-source reference instrument and a station located close to a target). The latter approach is newly investigated, as local site effects could have a significant impact on recorded data. Considering that further study on the behavior of IV2p is necessary, there are indications that this parameter could be used in future on-site single‐station earthquake early warning operations for areas affected by earthquakes located in Thessaly, as itpresents significant stability.
Educando las emociones: investigación-acción sobre un programa de educación emocional para el alumnado de educación primaria.
Authors: Pérez López Rocío , Gómez Hurtado Inmaculada
Published: September 2021

. Se presenta una investigación acción, realizada con el alumnado de 10 y 11 años. Para ello, se ha puesto en práctica un programa de educación emocional, estructurado en varias fases: diagnóstico, investigación, acción y evaluación. El objetivo principal es diseñar, implementar y valorar una propuesta de educación emocional en un aula, mediante la puesta en práctica de la investigación acción, con el fin de conocer los beneficios en el alumnado. El análisis de los resultados se ha realizado a través de un sistema de categorías organizado en cuatro dimensiones: qué se enseña, cómo, qué disposiciones presentan en relación al programa y desarrollo y conocimiento de las emociones. Como resultado general, la implementación del programa ha favorecido de manera positiva la adquisición de habilidades socioemocionales del alumnado y ha creado un clima óptimo en el aula, reduciendo así la conflictividad. La investigación-acción ha contribuido a la mejora en el proceso de desarrollo del programa y, por tanto, a la consecución de los objetivos. Las principales conclusiones muestran que la investigación-acción es un medio eficaz para poner en práctica programas sociales y emocionales, ya que ayuda a alcanzar sus finalidades fomentando valores humanos, empatía, relaciones positivas, reflexión crítica y ser buenas personas, dejando a un lado actitudes negativas como la competitividad.
Las víctimas del conflicto armado: una comprensión desde la educación matemática.
Authors: Cano Villamil María Inés , López Romero Laura Ginneth , Torres Puentes Elizabeth
Published: September 2021

Este artículo es producto de una investigación en el marco de la Maestría en Docencia de la Matemática en la Universidad Pedagógica Nacional (Colombia). El objetivo de la investigación fue aportar desde el diseño, gestión y evaluación de un Escenario de Investigación, generado en el marco de la Educación Matemática Crítica, a la comprensión de algunas modalidades de violencia del conflicto armado colombiano que ha impactado a las víctimas, y a la formación en competencias matemáticas en un grupo de estudiantes de educación media. Para efectos de este artículo se retoman los resultados correspondientes a la fase de gestión del Escenario de Investigación, Escenario de Investigación diseñado por maestrantes e implementado con estudiantes de grado décimo, el cual se basó en el estudio de una modalidad de violencia presente en el conflicto armado colombiano por medio del análisis y reflexión de diferentes datos e información verídica sobre las víctimas. Una de las conclusiones del estudio que derivó este artículo enfatiza en la necesidad de hacer de la educación matemática, una herramienta potente, que aporte a la comprensión de las realidades sociales, tal como lo es el conflicto armado colombiano. Otra conclusión refiere a la importancia de la gestión de Escenarios que permitan promover las competencias matemáticas para ciudadanos, que lleven a una conciencia profunda de lo que significa el lugar de las víctimas, en el marco de la guerra.
MUJERES EN LA CIENCIA FICCIÓN MEXICANA: BLANCA, MARTHA, BRENDA Y OTRAS MÁS.
Authors: Granillo Vazquez Lilia , Mejia Villareal Isai
Published: September 2021

Cierta tendencia -en inglés- considera que la Ciencia Ficción escrita en español carece de creatividad y conocimiento científico— tecnológico: “nomenclatura confusa y a exégesis que abusa de imaginarios y narrativa fantástica”. Para rebatir tal visión dogmática y estrecha, esta investigación revela, desde la teoría de la recepción, la trascendencia de la escritura de mujeres en la Ciencia Ficción mexicana y da cuenta del horizonte de expectativas en el ambiente literario.
Detecting Product Adoption Intentions via Multiview Deep Learning
Authors: Zhang Zhu , Wei Xuan , Zheng Xiaolong , Li Qiudan , Zeng Daniel Dajun
Published: September 2021

Detecting product adoption intentions on social media could yield significant value in a wide range of applications, such as personalized recommendations and targeted marketing. In the literature, no study has explored the detection of product adoption intentions on social media, and only a few relevant studies have focused on purchase intention detection for products in one or several categories. Focusing on a product category rather than a specific product is too coarse-grained for precise advertising. Additionally, existing studies primarily focus on using one type of text representation in target social media posts, ignoring the major yet unexplored potential of fusing different text representations. In this paper, we first formulate the problem of product adoption intention mining and demonstrate the necessity of studying this problem and its practical value. To detect a product adoption intention for an individual product, we propose a novel and general multiview deep learning model that simultaneously taps into the capability of multiview learning in leveraging different representations and deep learning in learning latent data representations using a flexible nonlinear transformation. Specifically, the proposed model leverages three different text representations from a multiview perspective and takes advantage of local and long-term word relations by integrating convolutional neural network (CNN) and long short-term memory (LSTM) modules. Extensive experiments on three Twitter datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed multiview deep learning model compared with the existing benchmark methods. This study also significantly contributes research insights to the literature about intention mining and provides business value to relevant stakeholders such as product providers.
Performance Approximation for Time-Dependent Queues with Generally Distributed Abandonments
Authors: Selinka Gregor , Stolletz Raik , Maindl Thomas I.
Published: September 2021

Many stochastic systems face a time-dependent demand. Especially in stochastic service systems, for example, in call centers, customers may leave the queue if their waiting time exceeds their personal patience. As discussed in the extant literature, it can be useful to use general distributions to model such customer patience. This paper analyzes the time-dependent performance of a multiserver queue with a nonhomogeneous Poisson arrival process with a time-dependent arrival rate, exponentially distributed processing times, and generally distributed time to abandon. Fast and accurate performance approximations are essential for decision support in such queueing systems, but the extant literature lacks appropriate methods for the setting we consider. To approximate time-dependent performance measures for small- and medium-sized systems, we develop a new stationary backlog-carryover (SBC) approach that allows for the analysis of underloaded and overloaded systems. Abandonments are considered in two steps of the algorithm: (i) in the approximation of the utilization as a reduced arrival stream and (ii) in the approximation of waiting-based performance measures with a stationary model for general abandonments. To improve the approximation quality, we discuss an adjustment to the interval lengths. We present a limit result that indicates convergence of the method for stationary parameters. The numerical study compares the approximation quality of different adjustments to the interval length. The new SBC approach is effective for instances with small numbers of time-dependent servers and gamma-distributed abandonment times with different coefficients of variation and for an empirical distribution of the abandonment times from real-world data obtained from a call center. A discrete-event simulation benchmark confirms that the SBC algorithm approximates the performance of the queueing system with abandonments very well for different parameter configurations.

Summary of Contribution: The paper presents a fast and accurate numerical method to approximate the performance measures of a time‐dependent queueing system with generally distributed abandonments. The presented stationary backlog carryover approach with abandonment combines algorithmic ideas with stationary queueing models for generally distributed abandonment times. The reliability of the method is analyzed for transient systems and numerically studied with real‐world data.
Personal Achievement Goals, Learning Strategies, and Perceived IT Affordances
Authors: Nevo Saggi , Nevo Dorit , Pinsonneault Alain
Published: September 2021

What people perceive when they interact with technologies are not the features and functionalities of the technology but rather the behaviors it affords them. Affordance perception determines how organizational information technology (IT) is used by employees and the benefits they provide to organizations and their members. In this article, we explain how employees who pursue different personal goals and use various learning strategies come to perceive different IT affordances. We identify three distinct pathways: (1) performance-avoidance goals are positively associated with surface processing, which leads to perceptions of common in-role IT affordances; (2) performance-approach goals are positively associated with surface processing and effort regulation and these learning strategies lead to perceptions of common and specialized in-role IT affordances; and (3) mastery goals are associated with deep processing, effort regulation, and peer learning, which are positively associated with perceptions of specialized in-role and extra-role IT affordances. By identifying the different pathways to perceived affordances, the article identifies potential interventions that can help managers steer employees toward certain affordances and away from other, less desirable affordances.