bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does chronic raise of metal ion levels induce oxidative DNA damage and hypoxia‐like response in patients with metal‐on‐metal hip resurfacing?
Authors: Savarino Lucia , Fotia Caterina , Roncuzzi Laura , Greco Michelina , Cadossi Matteo , Baldini Nicola , Giannini Sandro
Published: October 2015

Metal‐on‐metal hip resurfacing (MOM‐HR) represents a viable alternative to traditional arthroplasty. Nevertheless, in MOM coupling both metal nanoparticles and ions are released, whose toxicity remains a matter of concern. We investigated whether ‘endogenous' chronic exposure to cobalt and chromium induced a state of oxidative stress, DNA damage and a hypoxia‐like response in patients with well‐functioning MOM‐HR. Twenty‐two patients with unilateral MOM‐HR were recruited at long‐term. Twenty‐one osteoarthritic subjects were enrolled for comparison. Serum ion levels were measured and correlated with 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine and circulating‐free‐DNA, as markers of oxidative DNA damage. Moreover, the hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α, marker of hypoxic state, was evaluated.

Ion concentrations were found to be 5‐to‐15 times higher in MOM‐HR patients than in presurgery subjects (p < 0.001); circulating‐free‐DNA, 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine, and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α levels were not significantly different between groups and did not correlate with ion levels. Analyzing the results according to gender, MOM‐HR males had higher 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine levels (p = 0.01) compared with MOM‐HR females. Similarly, circulating‐free‐DNA values were higher in males than females, even if this difference did not reach statistical significance.

This research is the first that attempted to investigate the long‐term effects of ion dissemination in subjects with well‐fixed MOM implants. A significant correlation between biomarkers increase and ion levels was not demonstrated. Nevertheless, both circulating‐free‐DNA and 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine showed a tendency to increase in MOM‐HR males. Further studies with a larger sample size should be performed to detect the clinical relevance of biomarkers increase especially in younger subjects, where a chronic moderately elevated exposure has to be faced. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 460–466, 2017.
Translational Research and Plasma Proteomic in Cancer
Authors: Santini Annamaria Chiara , Giovane Giancarlo , Auletta Adelaide , Di Carlo Angelina , Fiorelli Alfonso , Cito Letizia , Astarita Carlo , Giordano Antonio , Alfano Roberto , Feola Antonia , Di Domenico Marina
Published: October 2015

Proteomics is a recent field of research in molecular biology that can help in the fight against cancer through the search for biomarkers that can detect this disease in the early stages of its development. Proteomic is a speedily growing technology, also thanks to the development of even more sensitive and fast mass spectrometry analysis. Although this technique is the most widespread for the discovery of new cancer biomarkers, it still suffers of a poor sensitivity and insufficient reproducibility, essentially due to the tumor heterogeneity. Common technical shortcomings include limitations in the sensitivity of detecting low abundant biomarkers and possible systematic biases in the observed data. Current research attempts are trying to develop high‐resolution proteomic instrumentation for high‐throughput monitoring of protein changes that occur in cancer. In this review, we describe the basic features of the proteomic tools which have proven to be useful in cancer research, showing their advantages and disadvantages. The application of these proteomic tools could provide early biomarkers detection in various cancer types and could improve the understanding the mechanisms of tumor growth and dissemination. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 828–835, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression profiling of heat shock genes in a scuttle fly Megaselia scalaris (Diptera, Phoridae)
Authors: Malewski Tadeusz , Bogdanowicz Wiesław , Durska Ewa , Łoś Marta , Kamiński Marcin , Kowalewska Katarzyna
Published: October 2015

The Phoridae are a family of small, hump‐backed flies, dominating in post‐fire areas. Some of these flies are probably able to survive a fire as an egg, larva, or pupa, and may be adapted to the fire‐altered environment at the genomic level. In this study, we describe the influence of short‐term temperature treatment on the expression of seven heat shock protein genes in the third‐instar larvae and imagoes of a scuttle fly Megaselia scalaris—one of the cosmopolitan and polyphagous phorids. In terms of the response to temperature treatment, these genes tested against tubulin as a reference split into three classes. The first class consists of hsp22 (larvae), hsp23 (larvae), and hsp26 (both larvae and imagoes), and is upregulated at the lowest temperature (33°C). The second class consists of hsp22 (imagoes), hsp23 (imagoes), hsp40 (larvae and imagoes), and hsp70 (larvae and imagoes), and is upregulated or induced at 37°C. Expression of genes of the third class (hsp27 and hsp83—larvae and imagoes) increased after treatment at 41°C temperature. Expression of the first two classes of genes occurred at a temperature lower than the LT50 of larvae and imagoes. The fact that there is a gap between the temperature upregulating hsp genes and the temperature leading to the loss of viability suggests that not only the level of hsp gene expression but also the temperature at which gene expression increased is important in an adaptation of M. scalaris to harsh environment. J. Exp. Zool. 323A: 704–713, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessment of tumor response to oxygen challenge using quantitative diffusion MRI in an animal model
Authors: Zhang Zhongwei , Yuan Qing , Zhou Heling , Zhao Dawen , Li Li , Gerberich Jenifer L. , Mason Ralph P.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

To assess tumor response to oxygen challenge using quantitative diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Materials and Methods

A well‐characterized Dunning R3327‐AT1 rat prostate cancer line was implanted subcutaneously in the right thigh of male Copenhagen rats (n = 8). Diffusion‐weighted images (DWI) with multiple b values (0, 25, 50, 100, 150, 200, 300, 500, 1000, 1500 s/mm2) in three orthogonal directions were obtained using a multishot FSE‐based Stejskal‐Tanner DWI sequence (FSE‐DWI) at 4.7T, while rats breathed medical air (21% oxygen) and with 100% oxygen challenge. Stretched‐exponential and intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) models were used to calculate and compare quantitative diffusion parameters: diffusion heterogeneity index (α), intravoxel distribution of diffusion coefficients (DDC), tissue diffusivity (Dt), pseudo‐diffusivity (Dp), and perfusion fraction (f) on a voxel‐by‐voxel basis.

Results

A significant increase of α (73.9 ± 4.7% in air vs. 78.1 ± 4.5% in oxygen, P = 0.0198) and a significant decrease of f (13.4 ± 3.7% in air vs. 10.4 ± 2.7% in oxygen, P = 0.0201) were observed to accompany oxygen challenge. Correlations between f and α during both air and oxygen breathing were found; the correlation coefficients (r) were −0.90 and −0.96, respectively. Positive correlations between Dt and DDC with oxygen breathing (r = 0.95, P = 0.0003), f and DDC with air breathing were also observed (r = 0.95, P = 0.0004).

Conclusion

Quantitative diffusion MRI demonstrated changes in tumor perfusion in response to oxygen challenge. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:1450–1457.
Raman fingerprint of the interaction of K+ with the COO− group of zwitterionic alanine
Authors: Bhunia Snehasis , Hassanein Rasha , Materny Arnulf , Ojha Animesh K.
Published: October 2015

The interaction of K+ with the zwitterionic form of alanine (ZAla) is investigated using Raman spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations. The Raman spectra of an aqueous solution of Ala and its mixture with KOH at different molar concentrations [ZAla + xKOH, x = 1–5 M] have been recorded in the spectral region 400–1800 cm−1. The wavenumber position of the band at ~529 cm−1 shows a red shift of 14 cm−1, while the Raman band at ~634 cm−1 shows a blue shift of 10 cm−1 with the increasing x from 1 to 5 M. The intensity ratio I634/I529 is increased with increasing x, and it could be because of the increase in concentration of the [ZAla + K+] complex in the solution. The new Raman band appeared at ~1079 cm−1 in the Raman spectra of [ZAla + xKOH, x = 1–5] complex. To determine the most probable site for the interaction of K+ with ZAla, the structures of ZAla and the [ZAla + K+] were optimized at B3LYP/6‐311++G(d,p) level of theory. The electrostatic potential calculation carried out for ZAla reveals that the maximum density of electron is lying over COO−, and therefore, COO− would be the most probable site for the interaction of K+ with ZAla. The theoretically calculated Raman spectra of ZAla, [ZAla + K+] and the [ZAla− + K+] are in good agreement with experimentally observed Raman spectra. Thus, the Raman bands at ~529, 634, and 1079 cm−1 may be used as the Raman fingerprint for the interaction of K+ with COO− of the ZAla and ZAla−. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interleukin 18 binding protein ameliorates ischemia/reperfusion–induced hepatic injury in mice
Authors: Ouzounidis Nikolaos , Giakoustidis Alexandros , Poutahidis Theofilos , Angelopoulou Katerina , Iliadis Stavros , Chatzigiagkos Antonis , Zacharioudaki Argyro , Angelopoulos Stamatis , Papalois Apostolos , Papanikolaou Vasilios , Giakoustidis Dimitrios
Published: October 2015

Inflammation‐associated oxidative stress contributes to hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI). Detrimental inflammatory event cascades largely depend on activated Kupffer cells (KCs) and neutrophils, as well as proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) and interleukin (IL) 18. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of IL 18 binding protein (IL 18Bp) in hepatic IRI of mice. Thirty C57BL/6 mice were allocated into 3 groups: sham operation, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R), and I/R with intravenous administration of IL 18Bp. Hepatic ischemia was induced for 30 minutes by Pringle's maneuver. After 120 minutes of reperfusion, mice were euthanized, and the liver and blood samples were collected for histological, immunohistochemical, molecular, and biochemical analyses. I/R injury induced the typical liver pathology and upregulated IL‐18 expression in the liver of mice. Binding of IL 18 with IL 18Bp significantly reduced the histopathological indices of I/R liver injury and KC apoptosis. The I/R‐induced increase of TNF‐α, malondialdehyde, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase levels was prevented in statistically significant levels because of the pretreatment with IL 18Bp. Likewise, blocking of IL 18 ablated the I/R‐associated elevation of nuclear factor kappa B, c‐Jun, myeloperoxidase, and IL 32 and the up‐regulation of neutrophils and T‐helper lymphocytes. Administration of IL 18Bp protects the mice liver from I/R injury by intervening in critical inflammation‐associated pathways and KC apoptosis. Liver Transpl 22:237‐246, 2016. © 2015 AASLD.
Longterm outcomes of auxiliary partial orthotopic liver transplantation in preadolescent children with fulminant hepatic failure
Authors: Weiner Joshua , Griesemer Adam , Island Eddie , Lobritto Steven , Martinez Mercedes , Selvaggi Gennaro , Lefkowitch Jay , Velasco Monica , Tryphonopoulos Panagiotis , Emond Jean , Tzakis Andreas , Kato Tomoaki
Published: October 2015

By preserving part of the native liver, auxiliary partial orthotopic liver transplantation (APOLT) provides the advantage of potential immunosuppression (ISP) withdrawal if the native liver recovers but has had limited acceptance, especially in the United States, due to technical complications and low rates of native liver regeneration. No previous study has evaluated APOLT specifically for preadolescent children with fulminant hepatic failure (FHF). This population might benefit especially based on greater capacity for liver regeneration. Data from 13 preadolescent children who underwent APOLT were compared to 13 matched controls who underwent orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) for FHF from 1996 to 2013. There were no significant differences in patient demographics or survival between the 2 groups. However, all surviving OLT recipients (10/13) remain on ISP, while all but 1 surviving APOLT recipient (12/13) showed native liver regeneration, and the first 10 recipients (76.9%) are currently off ISP with 2 additional patients currently weaning. In our experience, APOLT produced excellent survival and high rates of native liver regeneration in preadolescent children with FHF. This represents the largest series to date to report such outcomes. Liberating these children from lifelong ISP without the downside of increased surgical morbidity makes APOLT an attractive alternative. In conclusion, we therefore propose that, with the availability of technical expertise and with the technical modifications above, APOLT for FHF should be strongly considered for preteenage children with FHF. Liver Transplantation 22 485‐494 2016 AASLD
Solutions of the congruence
Authors: Grau José María , Moree Pieter , Oller‐Marcén Antonio M.
Published: October 2015

In this paper we characterize, in terms of the prime divisors of n, the pairs for which n divides . As an application, we derive some results on the sets

urn:x-wiley:0025584X:media:mana201500057:mana201500057-math-0005for some choices of f.
Does the ethanolammonium acetate ionic liquid mix homogeneously with molecular solvents?
Authors: Zhu Xiao , Zhang Huan , Xu Yingjie
Published: October 2015

In order to study micro‐structural heterogeneities in the solutions of ionic liquids (ILs), ethanolammonium acetate (EOAA) IL has been synthesized and 1H NMR spectra of its binary solutions, namely EOAA/DMSO and EOAA/n‐butanol, have been measured at 298.15 K. Then the concentration‐dependent chemical shifts δ (―CH3, EOAA), δ (―CH3, DMSO) and δ (―CH3, n‐butanol) have been correlated separately using the local composition (LC) model. The results indicated that self‐association of EOAA played the leading role within EOAA‐rich region in mixtures. However with the molecular solvents increasing, the interactions between EOAA and solvents gradually predominated. Moreover the comparisons between DMSO and n‐butanol have demonstrated that DMSO could break the network of IL more easily, indicating that the influence of DMSO on the properties of EOAA should be more obvious, which was consistent with experimental results of viscosity and conductivity. Furthermore the maximum difference between the local and the bulk appeared at x(EOAA) ≈ 0.5 for both systems, which reflected remarkable nonideality of mixtures at this concentration. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sexual Behavior and Concerns in a Sample of Elderly, Former Indentured Swiss Child Laborers
Authors: Rechsteiner Karin , Burri Andrea , Maercker Andreas
Published: October 2015

Introduction

Past research suggests a link between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and an increased risk for sexual problems. However, there is still no clear picture whether these higher rates are related to trauma exposure or to PTSD itself.

Aim

The aim of the present study was to complement existing knowledge on the relative impact of trauma and PTSD on sexuality in later life, considering different aspects of trauma exposure on both men and women.

Methods

The study was conducted on a unique population sample of former Swiss indentured child laborers (55 men, Mage 78, age range 60–95 years) who have repeatedly experienced a variety of severe childhood traumas.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual outcomes were measured using two scales from the Trauma Symptom Inventory—Dysfunctional Sexual Behavior (DSB) and Sexual Concerns (SC). PTSD symptoms and trauma were assessed with the Short Screening Scale for PTSD and the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, respectively.

Results

Twenty-two individuals showed PTSD symptoms, and 53 reported having experienced childhood trauma. Significant differences between men and women were reported for DSB and SC. Men reported a significantly higher prevalence of both SC and DSB compared with women.

Conclusions

This is the very first study investigating DSB and SC in a sample of older adults exposed to similar traumatic experiences and settings. However, some study limitations need to be considered such as the small sample size. Additional studies are needed to further explore the relative role of traumatization and PTSD on sexual behavior and well-being, especially to improve sexual therapy for patients who experience trauma.
Painful Ejaculation with Cyclobenzaprine: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Kraus Molly B. , Wie Christopher S. , Gorlin Andrew W. , Wisenbaugh Eric S. , Rosenfeld David M.
Published: October 2015

Introduction

Sexual dysfunction is a well-known side effect of antidepressants. Painful ejaculation is a rare side effect that has been reported with the use of some psychiatric drugs such as triclyclic antidepressants. Cyclobenzaprine is a muscle relaxant that is structurally similar to tricyclic antidepressants. It is the most commonly prescribed muscle relaxant in the United States and accounts for 18% of all prescriptions written for chronic back pain.

Methods

A 55-year-old man was referred to our pain medicine clinic for evaluation and treatment of pain with ejaculation.

Main outcome Measure

The main outcome measure was to review the current published literature and case reports on painful ejaculation from medication use, in particular tricyclic antidepressants.

Results

After discontinuation of cyclobenzaprine, our patient's sexual dysfunction resolved. This result was consistent with the literature reviewed on the topic.

Conclusion

Painful ejaculation is likely an underreported side effect of tricyclic antidepressants and cyclobenzaprine use. Fortunately, these symptoms are reversible and discontinuation of these medications is typically an effective cure.
Natural capital, unnatural markets?
Authors: Millward‐Hopkins Joel T.
Published: October 2015

This short opinion article is intended to provoke debate around the use of market mechanisms and financial incentives as strategies to mitigate climate change and other ecological issues. It does so by synthesizing schools of thought that critique the ‘naturalization’ of the market and examining these within the context of environmental politics. The article first briefly reviews the most serious criticisms of market‐ and incentive‐based approaches to environmental issues, drawing upon literature from sociology, (steady‐state) economics, and moral and political philosophy as well as recent empirical evidence from behavioral psychology. Subsequently, with reference to anthropological observations and a number of political theorists (Michael Foucault, David Graeber and others), it outlines the contradiction between the 'naturalization' of the market (i.e., the market as a phenomena that emerges spontaneously from natural human self‐interest) and the explicit function of the state within neoliberalism to construct markets and market subjects. Finally, an argument is presented that some sectors of the environmental movement have been captured (implicitly and perhaps begrudgingly) by a naturalized vision of the market and hence, inadvertently, are supporting neoliberalism in extending market relations and cultivating market subjects. WIREs Clim Change 2016, 7:13–22. doi: 10.1002/wcc.370

This article is categorized under:

Climate Economics > Economics and Climate Change

Climate, Nature, and Ethics > Comparative Environmental Values
Development of haploid embryos and plants of Lactuca sativa induced by distant pollination with Helianthus annuus and H. tuberosus
Authors: Piosik Ł. , Zenkteler E. , Zenkteler M.
Published: October 2015

Haploidisation is a biotechnological method used to obtain plants with improved traits that are of use to humans. Lettuce (Lactuca sativaL.), a well-known and popular leafy vegetable, is consumed worldwide. Its haploid form would provide a good basis for producing a pure line of plants (doubled haploids) allowing new varieties to be regenerated. The main aim of this work was to develop an effective haploidisation method for this economically important species. In order to stimulate the development of haploid embryos of lettuce based on our previous experience, we conducted in vivo distant pollination with fresh pollen grains ofHelianthus annuusL. orH. tuberosusL. Because the haploid proembryos obtained after pollination did not develop further (despite the presence of cellular endosperm), we implemented the technique of in vitro culture of an isolated embryo sacs (surrounded by endothelium) with parthenogenetic embryos on various, modified Murashige and Skoog media. During the in vitro culture, we observed the formation of callus tissue and, after subsequent cultures of calluses, 23 haploidL. sativaplants were regenerated. The haploid status of the regenerated plantlets was confirmed by estimation of the genome size by flow cytometry, chromosome counting in root tips, stomata cell size and by disturbances in pollen formation resulting from abnormal microsporogenesis. This paper contains the complete protocol for obtaining haploid plants ofL. sativa.
Genetic Test Results and Disclosure to Family Members: Qualitative Interviews of Healthcare Professionals’ Perceptions of Ethical and Professional Issues in France
Authors: d’ Audiffret Van Haecke Diane , de Montgolfier Sandrine
Published: October 2015

The benefit of disclosing test results to next of kin is to improve prognosis and—in some cases—even prevent death though earlier monitoring or preventive therapies. Research on this subject has explored the question of intra‐familial communication from the standpoint of patients and relatives but rarely, from the standpoint of healthcare professionals. The purpose of this study was to interview relevant healthcare professionals in France, where legislation framing the issue was recently passed. A qualitative study consisting of semi‐structured interviews was set up to get a clearer picture of the challenges arising from this issue, its consequences in terms of medical care‐service practices, and the positions that frontline professionals have taken in response to this new legal framework. The findings from eight interviews with 7 clinical geneticists and 1 genetic counselor highlight very different patterns of practices among care services and among the genetic diseases involved. It is equally crucial to investigate other issues such as the nature of genetic testing and its consequences in terms of disclosing results to kin, the question of the role of genetic counseling in the disclosure process, the question of prescription by non‐geneticist clinicians, and practical questions linked to information content, consent and medical follow‐up for patients and their relatives.
Double Bond Position Plays an Important Role in Delta‐9 Desaturation and Lipogenic Properties of Trans 18:1 Isomers in Mouse Adipocytes
Authors: Vahmani P. , Meadus W. J. , Mapiye C. , Duff P. , Rolland D. C. , Dugan M. E. R.
Published: October 2015

The objective of this research was to study the delta‐9 desaturation of individual trans (t) fatty acids that can be found in ruminant fat or partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (PHVO) and determine their effects on lipogenic gene expression in adipocytes. It was hypothesized that delta‐9 desaturation and lipogenic properties of t‐18:1 isomers depend on the position of double bond. Differentiated 3T3‐L1 adipocytes were treated with 200 µM of t6–18:1, t9–18:1, t11–18:1, t13–18:1 or t16–18:1, cis (c)‐9 18:1 or bovine serum albumin (BSA) vehicle control for 48 h. Cells were then harvested for fatty acid and gene expression analyses using gas chromatography and quantitative PCR respectively. Among t‐18:1 isomers, t13–18:1 and t11–8:1 had the greatest percent delta‐9 desaturation (44 and 41 % respectively) followed by t16–18:1 and t6–18:1 (32 and 17 % respectively), while c9–18:1 and t9–18:1 did not undergo delta‐9 desaturation. Trans9–18:1 up‐regulated (P < 0.05) the expression of lipogenic genes including fatty acid synthase and stearoyl‐CoA desaturase‐1 (P < 0.05), whereas the expression of these genes were not affected with other t‐18:1 isomers (P > 0.05). Consistent with gene expression results, t9–18:1 increased the de novo lipogenic index (16:0/18:2n‐6) compared with control cells and increased delta‐9 desaturation index (c9–16:1/18:0) compared to other t‐18:1 isomers (P < 0.05). The current study provides further evidence that the predominant trans fatty acid in PHVO (t9–18:1) has isomer specific lipogenic properties.
Formation of Acrolein in the Autoxidation of Triacylglycerols with Different Fatty Acid Compositions
Authors: Shibata Ako , Uemura Mariko , Hosokawa Masashi , Miyashita Kazuo
Published: October 2015

Fish, echium, linseed, and soybean oil triacyglycerols (TAGs) were oxidized at 50 or 60 °C to determine the effect of the polyunsaturated fatty acid composition on the volatile product formation. The analysis of the oxygen consumption and total volatile formation demonstrated that the soybean oil TAG had the highest oxidative stability followed by linseed, echium, and fish oil TAGs. Our results were in agreement with the expected average number of bis‐allylic positions of each TAG. Higher quantities of acrolein (2‐propenal) and propanal were detected using the static headspace gas chromatography method at the early stages of oxidation of echium and fish oil TAGs; however, a considerable amount of propanal and only a small amount of acrolein were found in the oxidized linseed oil TAG. The peak area ratios of acrolein to propanal were 0.115, 0.569, and 2.554 after the 8‐h oxidation of linseed, echium, and fish oil TAG, respectively, suggesting the preferential formation of acrolein, especially during the fish oil TAG oxidation. The acrolein quickly increased during the first stage of oxidation, but thereafter it either did not change or slightly decreased during the fish oil oxidation. Because fish oil induces flavor deterioration from the very early stage of the oxidation, the acrolein formation observed in the present study may be important for fish oil deterioration.
Maternal myasthenia gravis: A cause for arthrogryposis multiplex congenita
Authors: Midelfart Hoff Jana , Midelfart Anna
Published: October 2015

Background

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a condition defined as contractures in more than two joints and in multiple body areas. The principal mechanism leading to the development of AMC in utero is decreased fetal movement.

Objective

Both fetal and maternal factors can lead to this condition, including maternal myasthenia gravis (MG) which is the topic of this review. MG is an autoimmune disease in which antibodies (immunoglobulin G) are formed against acetylcholine receptors. The disease can affect both genders, but women are more prone to develop the disease in early adulthood, a phase of life when the focus of many women is often directed towards founding a family. During pregnancy, maternal antibodies are transmitted to the fetus.

Results

Although the child is unaffected in most cases, the constant transmission of antibodies in utero can lead to neonatal myasthenia post-partum, a transient condition characterized by hypotonia and swallowing/respiratory difficulties as well as AMC.

Conclusion

The maternal antibody profile in mothers with MG seems to play a key role in whether the child develops AMC or not. There are also indications that there may be a relation between neonatal MG and AMC, as well as a high recurrence rate in siblings.
Longitudinal cerebrospinal fluid biomarker measurements in preclinical sporadic Alzheimer's disease: A prospective 9‐year study
Authors: Stomrud Erik , Minthon Lennart , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Hansson Oskar
Published: October 2015

Introduction

Ascertainment of the pattern and temporal change of biomarkers in preclinical (asymptomatic) sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD) will increase knowledge about early pathogenesis and facilitate interventional therapeutic trials.

Methods

In this prospective longitudinal study, repeated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collections and cognitive evaluations were performed in cognitively healthy elderly individuals during a 9‐year period.

Results

Low CSF β‐amyloid (Aβ)42 levels predicted subsequent development of clinical AD 9 years later. Noteworthy, one‐third of individuals with pathologically low baseline Aβ42 levels remained cognitively intact during follow‐up. No further decrease in Aβ42 was seen in those with low levels already at baseline.

Discussion

CSF Aβ42 predicts sporadic AD at least 9 years before dementia onset and has plateaued already at this time. However, many individuals can harbor brain amyloid accumulation over a decade without signs of cognitive deterioration, which could implicate how CSF biomarkers are used to identify preclinical AD in future interventional therapeutic trials.
Functional roles inS‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine binding and catalysis for active site residues of the thiostrepton resistance methyltransferase
Authors: Myers Cullen L. , Kuiper Emily G. , Grant Pei C. , Hernandez Jennifer , Conn Graeme L. , Honek John F.
Published: October 2015

Resistance to the antibiotic thiostrepton, in producingStreptomycetes, is conferred by theS‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine (SAM)‐dependent SPOUT methyltransferase Tsr. For this and related enzymes, the roles of active site amino acids have been inadequately described. Herein, we have probed SAM interactions in the Tsr active site by investigating the catalytic activity and the thermodynamics of SAM binding by site‐directed Tsr mutants. Two arginine residues were demonstrated to be critical for binding, one of which appears to participate in the catalytic reaction. Additionally, evidence consistent with the involvement of an asparagine in the structural organization of the SAM binding site is presented.
An Evaluation of the Membership Probability of 212 λ Boo Stars. I. A Catalogue
Authors: Murphy Simon J. , Corbally Christopher J. , Gray Richard O. , Cheng Kwang-Ping , Neff James E. , Koen Chris , Kuehn Charles A. , Newsome Ian , Riggs Quinlin
Published: October 2015

The literature on the λ Boo stars has grown to become somewhat heterogenous, as different authors have applied different criteria across the UV, optical, and infrared regions to determine the membership status of λ Boo candidates. We aim to clear up the confusion by consulting the literature on 212 objects that have been considered as λ Boo candidates, and subsequently evaluating the evidence in favour of their admission to the λ Boo class. We obtained new spectra of ~ 90 of these candidates and classified them on the MK system to aid in the membership evaluations. The re-evaluation of the 212 objects resulted in 64 members and 103 non-members of the λ Boo class, with a further 45 stars for which membership status is unclear. We suggest observations for each of the stars in the latter category that will allow them to be confidently included or rejected from the class. Our reclassification facilitates homogenous analysis on group members, and represents the largest collection of confirmed λ Boo stars known.
The ASKAP/EMU Source Finding Data Challenge
Authors: Hopkins A. M. , Whiting M. T. , Seymour N. , Chow K. E. , Norris R. P. , Bonavera L. , Breton R. , Carbone D. , Ferrari C. , Franzen T. M. O. , Garsden H. , González-Nuevo J. , Hales C. A. , Hancock P. J. , Heald G. , Herranz D. , Huynh M. , Jurek R. J. , López-Caniego M. , Massardi M. , Mohan N. , Molinari S. , Orrù E. , Paladino R. , Pestalozzi M. , Pizzo R. , Rafferty D. , Röttgering H. J. A. , Rudnick L. , Schisano E. , Shulevski A. , Swinbank J. , Taylor R. , van der Horst A. J.
Published: October 2015

The Evolutionary Map of the Universe (EMU) is a proposed radio continuum survey
of the Southern Hemisphere up to declination + 30°, with the Australian
Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP). EMU will use an automated source
identification and measurement approach that is demonstrably optimal, to
maximise the reliability and robustness of the resulting radio source
catalogues. As a step toward this goal we conducted a “Data
Challenge” to test a variety of source finders on simulated images. The
aim is to quantify the accuracy and limitations of existing automated source
finding and measurement approaches. The Challenge initiators also tested the
current ASKAPsoft source-finding tool to establish how it could benefit from
incorporating successful features of the other tools. As expected, most finders
show completeness around 100% at ≈ 10σ dropping to about 10% by
≈ 5σ. Reliability is typically close to 100% at ≈
10σ, with performance to lower sensitivities varying between finders. All
finders show the expected trade-off, where a high completeness at low
signal-to-noise gives a corresponding reduction in reliability, and vice versa.
We conclude with a series of recommendations for improving the performance of
the ASKAPsoft source-finding tool.
Why, and How, to Bridge the “Gap” Before Tenure: Peer-Reviewed Research May Not Be the Only Strategic Move as a Graduate Student or Young Scholar
Authors: Bertucci Mariano E.
Published: October 2015

Graduate students and young scholars with a passion for making a difference in the real world through research are often advised to put those dreams to rest until after tenure. This contributes to the enduring frustration on both sides of the “theory–policy gap” but it is sound advice—as of right now tenure decisions tend not to take into account publications appearing in policy outlets. However, the job market—and some of the most important mechanisms used for making promotion decisions in academia—suggest good strategic reasons for trying to have your research influence policy as early in your career as possible.
The “Crossfire Approach”: Attracting Political Science Majors in Large-Lecture Sections of Introductory Courses
Authors: Baumgartner Jody C , Morris Jonathan S.
Published: October 2015

In this article, we chronicle our experience in team-teaching large-lecture sections of “Introduction to American Government.” A dual-instructor approach allows us to accommodate 250 students, which obviates the need for five separate sections (and instructors) of the course. In addition, our “Crossfire Approach,” in which we engage one another in frequent and unstructured political debate, generates student interest in the course and in the political science major. Students who were enrolled in this course from 2007 through 2011 were significantly more likely to declare political science as their major than those who took it from any other instructor or either of us teaching it individually. This approach conserves departmental resources while simultaneously growing the program—a clear win-win situation.
The Political Is Personal: Using Political Life Narratives to Engage Students
Authors: Combellick-Bidney Sarah
Published: October 2015

To involve students in the process of grounding abstract concepts in their own concrete life experiences, I began working with a type of reflective exercise that I call the “political life story,” in which students create and share narratives around the political phenomena that have shaped their own lives. Building on the experiences of other political scientists who have used active-versus-passive learning to disentangle conceptual ambiguity—as well as similar best practices of student-centered pedagogy that are well established in the discipline—I offer these reflections in the spirit of deepening the conversation about methods of reflective group learning with diverse students in both classroom and online contexts. My observations reinforce the consistent finding in the wider pedagogical literature that diverse classrooms provide a conducive environment for deep learning when particular emphasis is placed on the lived experiences of students.
Fantasy Presidents: A Game That Makes Research More Exciting
Authors: Bridge Dave
Published: October 2015

Using the core principles of fantasy sports, I propose the notion of using fantasy drafts in political science classrooms. I begin by introducing the basic concept of fantasy leagues. Then I describe an original 30-minute game in which students draft US presidents and “compete” against one another along a number of dimensions. Next, I present possible writing assignments related to the game. The conclusion discusses the contributions of “Fantasy Presidents”—namely, it offers interesting essay prompts and informed discussions, and it encourages students to take the initiative in their own learning.
Processing of Facial Emotion in Bipolar Depression and Euthymia
Authors: Robinson Lucy J. , Gray John M. , Burt Mike , Ferrier I. Nicol , Gallagher Peter
Published: October 2015

Previous studies of facial emotion processing in bipolar disorder (BD) have reported conflicting findings. In independently conducted studies, we investigate facial emotion labeling in euthymic and depressed BD patients using tasks with static and dynamically morphed images of different emotions displayed at different intensities. Study 1 included 38 euthymic BD patients and 28 controls. Participants completed two tasks: labeling of static images of basic facial emotions (anger, disgust, fear, happy, sad) shown at different expression intensities; the Eyes Test (Baron-Cohen, Wheelwright, Hill, Raste, & Plumb, 2001), which involves recognition of complex emotions using only the eye region of the face. Study 2 included 53 depressed BD patients and 47 controls. Participants completed two tasks: labeling of “dynamic” facial expressions of the same five basic emotions; the Emotional Hexagon test (Young, Perret, Calder, Sprengelmeyer, & Ekman, 2002). There were no significant group differences on any measures of emotion perception/labeling, compared to controls. A significant group by intensity interaction was observed in both emotion labeling tasks (euthymia and depression), although this effect did not survive the addition of measures of executive function/psychomotor speed as covariates. Only 2.6–15.8% of euthymic patients and 7.8–13.7% of depressed patients scored below the 10th percentile of the controls for total emotion recognition accuracy. There was no evidence of specific deficits in facial emotion labeling in euthymic or depressed BD patients. Methodological variations—including mood state, sample size, and the cognitive demands of the tasks—may contribute significantly to the variability in findings between studies. (JINS, 2015, 21, 709–721)
Do Subjective Memory Complaints Lead or Follow Objective Cognitive Change? A Five-Year Population Study of Temporal Influence
Authors: Snitz Beth E. , Small Brent J. , Wang Tianxiu , Chang Chung-Chou H. , Hughes Tiffany F. , Ganguli Mary
Published: October 2015

The relationship between subjective memory complaints (SM) and objective memory (OM) performance in aging has been variably characterized in a substantial literature, to date. In particular, cross-sectional studies often observe weak or no associations. We investigated whether subjective memory complaints and objectively measured cognition influence each other over time, and if so, which is the stronger pathway of change—objective to subjective, or subjective to objective—or whether they are both important. Using bivariate latent change score modeling in data from a population study (N=1980) over 5 annual assessment cycles, we tested four corresponding hypotheses: (1) no coupling between SM and OM over time; (2) SM as leading indicator of change in OM; (3) OM as leading indicator of change in SM; (4) dual coupling over time, with both SM and OM leading subsequent change in the other. We also extended objective cognition to two other domains, language and executive functions. The dual-coupling models best fit the data for all three objective cognitive domains. The SM–OM temporal dynamics differ qualitatively compared to other domains, potentially reflecting changes in insight and self-awareness specific to memory impairment. Subjective memory and objective cognition reciprocally influence each other over time. The temporal dynamics between subjective and objective cognition in aging are nuanced, and must be carefully disentangled to shed light on the underlying processes. (JINS, 2015,21, 732–742)
Nature and Enforceability of WTO-plus SPS and TBT Provisions in Canada's PTAs: FromNAFTAtoCETA
Authors: VILLALTA PUIG GONZALO , DALKE ERIC D
Published: October 2015

Safety standards can function as non-tariff barriers to trade. Canada is a large exporter of goods and so it has an interest in the regulation of safety standards, both at the multilateral level through its membership of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and, most especially, at the bilateral and regional level through its Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs). Canada has signed PTAs with provisions that go beyond the obligations of WTO Members under theAgreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measuresand theAgreement on Technical Barriers to Trade. This article analyses the nature and enforceability of WTO-plus provisions on sanitary and phytosanitary standards (SPS) as well as product standards (TBT) in Canada's PTAs, from theNorth American Free Trade Agreement(NAFTA) between Canada, Mexico, and the United States to theComprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement(CETA) between Canada and the European Union. First, it finds that the inclusion of WTO-plus SPS and TBT provisions in Canada's PTAs is a relatively recent practice that is still in development. Only about half of Canada's PTAs contain WTO-plus SPS and TBT provisions and, those treaties that do, commonly concern institutions for regulatory cooperation and information exchange arrangements, without much commitment to harmonization. Secondly, it finds that nearly half of the SPS and TBT provisions in Canada's PTAs are unenforceable. They either are in a language that is too imprecise for enforcement or do not allow access to a dispute settlement mechanism. Thirdly, it finds that, by global standards, most of Canada's PTAs are modest in their approach to SPS and TBT issues, withNAFTAandCETAas key exceptions. The article concludes that the extent to which regulatory convergence occurs on safety standards for Canada is dependent more on political cooperation between the parties than on the nature and enforceability of SPS and TBT provisions in its PTAs.
Evidence for Volcanoes on Venus
Authors: Shultz David
Published: October 2015

Infrared light from the planet's surface shows hot spots that might be caused by lava.
Cationic cluster formation versus disproportionation of low-valent indium and gallium complexes of 2,2’-bipyridine
Authors: Lichtenthaler Martin R. , Stahl Florian , Kratzert Daniel , Heidinger Lorenz , Schleicher Erik , Hamann Julian , Himmel Daniel , Weber Stefan , Krossing Ingo
Published: October 2015

Group 13 MI compounds often disproportionate into M0 and MIII. Here, however, we show that the reaction of the MI salt of the weakly coordinating alkoxyaluminate [GaI(C6H5F)2]+[Al(ORF)4]− (RF=C(CF3)3) with 2,2’-bipyridine (bipy) yields the paramagnetic and distorted octahedral [Ga(bipy)3]2+•{[Al(ORF)4]−}2 complex salt. While the latter appears to be a GaII compound, both, EPR and DFT investigations assign a ligand-centred [GaIII{(bipy)3}•]2+ radical dication. Surprisingly, the application of the heavier homologue [InI(C6H5F)2]+[Al(ORF)4]− leads to aggregation and formation of the homonuclear cationic triangular and rhombic [In3(bipy)6]3+, [In3(bipy)5]3+ and [In4(bipy)6]4+ metal atom clusters. Typically, such clusters are formed under strongly reductive conditions. Analysing the unexpected redox-neutral cationic cluster formation, DFT studies suggest a stepwise formation of the clusters, possibly via their triplet state and further investigations attribute the overall driving force of the reactions to the strong In−In bonds and the high lattice enthalpies of the resultant ligand stabilized [M3]3+{[Al(ORF)4]−}3 and [M4]4+{[Al(ORF)4]−}4 salts.
Purely organic electroluminescent material realizing 100% conversion from electricity to light
Authors: Kaji Hironori , Suzuki Hajime , Fukushima Tatsuya , Shizu Katsuyuki , Suzuki Katsuaki , Kubo Shosei , Komino Takeshi , Oiwa Hajime , Suzuki Furitsu , Wakamiya Atsushi , Murata Yasujiro , Adachi Chihaya
Published: October 2015

Efficient organic light-emitting diodes have been developed using emitters containing rare metals, such as platinum and iridium complexes. However, there is an urgent need to develop emitters composed of more abundant materials. Here we show a thermally activated delayed fluorescence material for organic light-emitting diodes, which realizes both approximately 100% photoluminescence quantum yield and approximately 100% up-conversion of the triplet to singlet excited state. The material contains electron-donating diphenylaminocarbazole and electron-accepting triphenyltriazine moieties. The typical trade-off between effective emission and triplet-to-singlet up-conversion is overcome by fine-tuning the highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital distributions. The nearly zero singlet–triplet energy gap, smaller than the thermal energy at room temperature, results in an organic light-emitting diode with external quantum efficiency of 29.6%. An external quantum efficiency of 41.5% is obtained when using an out-coupling sheet. The external quantum efficiency is 30.7% even at a high luminance of 3,000 cd m−2.
Cavity-less on-chip optomechanics using excitonic transitions in semiconductor heterostructures
Authors: Okamoto Hajime , Watanabe Takayuki , Ohta Ryuichi , Onomitsu Koji , Gotoh Hideki , Sogawa Tetsuomi , Yamaguchi Hiroshi
Published: October 2015

The hybridization of semiconductor optoelectronic devices and nanomechanical resonators provides a new class of optomechanical systems in which mechanical motion can be coupled to light without any optical cavities. Such cavity-less optomechanical systems interconnect photons, phonons and electrons (holes) in a highly integrable platform, opening up the development of functional integrated nanomechanical devices. Here we report on a semiconductor modulation-doped heterostructure–cantilever hybrid system, which realizes efficient cavity-less optomechanical transduction through excitons. The opto-piezoelectric backaction from the bound electron–hole pairs enables us to probe excitonic transition simply with a sub-nanowatt power of light, realizing high-sensitivity optomechanical spectroscopy. Detuning the photon energy from the exciton resonance results in self-feedback cooling and amplification of the thermomechanical motion. This cavity-less on-chip coupling enables highly tunable and addressable control of nanomechanical resonators, allowing high-speed programmable manipulation of nanomechanical devices and sensor arrays.
An Xist-activating antisense RNA required for X-chromosome inactivation
Authors: Sarkar Mrinal K. , Gayen Srimonta , Kumar Surinder , Maclary Emily , Buttigieg Emily , Hinten Michael , Kumari Archana , Harris Clair , Sado Takashi , Kalantry Sundeep
Published: October 2015

The transcriptional imbalance due to the difference in the number of X chromosomes between male and female mammals is remedied through X-chromosome inactivation, the epigenetic transcriptional silencing of one of the two X chromosomes in females. The X-linked Xist long non-coding RNA functions as an X inactivation master regulator; Xist is selectively upregulated from the prospective inactive X chromosome and is required in cis for X inactivation. Here we discover an Xist antisense long non-coding RNA, XistAR (XistActivating RNA), which is encoded within exon 1 of the mouse Xist gene and is transcribed only from the inactive X chromosome. Selective truncation of XistAR, while sparing the overlapping Xist RNA, leads to a deficiency in Xist RNA expression in cis during the initiation of X inactivation. Thus, the Xist gene carries within its coding sequence an antisense RNA that drives Xist expression.