bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new formulation for the liner shipping network design problem
Authors: Ameln Marie , Sand Fuglum Julie , Thun Kristian , Andersson Henrik , Stålhane Magnus
Published: March 2019

The liner shipping network design problem (LSNDP) is an important problem within liner shipping because a good network can reduce costs and increase profits. Given sets of ports, vessel classes, and demands between the ports, the problem is to design a network of cyclic routes and assign a vessel class to each route so that all demands can flow through the network at minimal cost. In this paper, we analyze a new formulation of the LSNDP based on a two‐layer network structure. The formulation takes into account the cost of transshipment and allows for complex service structures. Valid inequalities and a novel approach of inner representations of low‐dimensional polyhedra are proposed. A new set of small instances with up to 12 ports has been developed and the formulation has been tested on these instances. Instances with up to 10 ports are solved to optimality, but the largest instances are not, confirming that the LSNDP is a very complex problem. The proposed improvements of the formulation are also shown to have a positive effect.
Inhibition of mitochondrial autophagy protects donor lungs for lung transplantation against ischaemia‐reperfusion injury in rats via the mTOR pathway
Authors: Liu Wei‐Cheng , Chen Shi‐Biao , Liu Sheng , Ling Xiang , Xu Qi‐Rong , Yu Ben‐Tong , Tang Jian
Published: March 2019

Impaired mitochondrial function is a key factor attributing to lung ischaemia‐reperfusion (IR) injury, which contributes to major post‐transplant complications. Thus, the current study was performed to investigate the role of mitochondrial autophagy in lung I/R injury and the involvement of the mTOR pathway. We established rat models of orthotopic left lung transplantation to investigate the role of mitochondrial autophagy in I/R injury following lung transplantation. Next, we treated the donor lungs with 3‐MA and Rapamycin to evaluate mitochondrial autophagy, lung function and cell apoptosis with different time intervals of cold ischaemia preservation and reperfusion. In addition, mitochondrial autophagy, and cell proliferation and apoptosis of pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs) exposed to hypoxia‐reoxygenation (H/R) were monitored after 3‐MA administration or Rapamycin treatment. The cell apoptosis could be inhibited by mitochondrial autophagy at the beginning of lung ischaemia, but was rendered out of control when mitochondrial autophagy reached normal levels. After I/R of donor lung, the mitochondrial autophagy was increased until 6 hours after reperfusion and then gradually decreased. The elevation of mitochondrial autophagy was accompanied by promoted apoptosis, aggravated lung injury and deteriorated lung function. Moreover, the suppression of mitochondrial autophagy by 3‐MA inhibited cell apoptosis of donor lung to alleviate I/R‐induced lung injury as well as inhibited H/R‐induced PMVEC apoptosis, and enhanced its proliferation. Finally, mTOR pathway participated in I/R‐ and H/R‐mediated mitochondrial autophagy in regulation of cell apoptosis. Inhibition of I/R‐induced mitochondrial autophagy alleviated lung injury via the mTOR pathway, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for lung I/R injury.
Overview of RAW264.7 for osteoclastogensis study: Phenotype and stimuli
Authors: Kong Lingbo , Smith Wanli , Hao Dingjun
Published: March 2019

Bone homeostasis is preserved by the balance of maintaining between the activity of osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. However, investigations for the osteoclastogenesis were hampered by considerable difficulties associated with isolating and culturing osteoclast in vivo. As the alternative, stimuli‐induced osteoclasts formation from RAW264.7 cells (RAW‐OCs) have gain its importance for extensively osteoclastogenic study of bone diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, osteolysis and periodontitis. However, considering the RAW‐OCs have not yet been well‐characterized and RAW264.7 cells are polymorphic because of a diverse phenotype of the individual cells comprising this cell linage, and different fate associated with various stimuli contributions. Thus, in present study, we provide an overview for current knowledge of the phenotype of RAW264.7 cells, as well as the current understanding of the complicated interactions between various stimuli and RAW‐OCs in the light of the recent progress.
Evaluation of two histological classifications for actinic keratoses – PRO classification scored highest inter‐rater reliability
Authors: Schmitz L. , Gupta G. , Stücker M. , Doerler M. , Gambichler T. , Welzel J. , Szeimies R.M. , Bierhoff E. , Stockfleth E. , Dirschka T.
Published: March 2019

Background

Actinic keratoses (AKs) can histologically be classified by the extent of atypical keratinocytes throughout the epidermis or their pattern of basal proliferation. Currently, no data on the inter‐rater reliability of both scores is available.

Objective

To evaluate the inter‐rater reliability of the two classification schemes; histological grade (AK I–III) and basal proliferation (PRO I–III).

Methods

Histological images of 54 AKs were classified by 21 independent dermatopathologists with regard to basal proliferation (PRO I–III), histological grade (AK I–III) and assumed risk of progression into invasive carcinoma.

Results

Overall, of the 54 AKs 16.7% (9/54) were classified as AK I, 66.7% (36/54) as AK II, and 16.7% (9/54) as AK III. With regards to basal growth pattern, 25.9% (14/54) were classified as PRO I, 42.6% (23/54) as PRO II, and 31.5% (17/54) as PRO III. We observed a highly significant inter‐rater reliability for PRO‐grading (P < 0.001) which was higher than for AK‐grading (Kendall's W coefficient: AK = 0.488 vs. PRO = 0.793). We found substantial agreement for assumed progression risk for AKs with worsening basal proliferation (k = 0.759) compared to moderate agreement (k = 0.563) for different AK‐gradings.

Conclusions

Histological classification of basal growth pattern (PRO) showed higher inter‐rater reliability compared to the established classification of atypical keratinocytes throughout epidermal layers. Moreover, experienced dermatopathologists considered basal proliferation to be more important in terms of progression risk than upwards directed growth patterns. It should be considered to classify AKs according to their basal proliferation pattern (PRO I–III).
The inhibitory activities and antiviral mechanism of Viola philippica aqueous extracts against grouper iridovirus infection in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Yu Qing , Liu Mingzhu , Xiao Hehe , Wu Siting , Qin Xianling , Lu Zijun , Shi Deqiang , Li Siqiao , Mi Huizhi , Wang Yibing , Su Hongfei , Wang Taixia , Li Pengfei
Published: March 2019

Grouper iridovirus (GIV) is one of the most serious pathogens in mariculture and causes high mortality rates in cultured groupers; then, effective medicines for controlling GIV infections are urgently needed. Viola philippica is a well‐known medicinal plant, and the application of V. philippica aqueous extracts against GIV infection was assessed by different methods in this study. The results showed that the working concentration of V. philippica aqueous extracts was 10 mg/ml. V. philippica aqueous extracts below 10 mg/ml have no significant cytotoxic effects on cell viability, while extracts over 15 mg/ml decreased cell viability and showed cytotoxic activity. V. philippica aqueous extracts had excellent inhibitory effects against GIV infection in vitro and in vivo. The possible antiviral mechanism of V. philippica was further analysed, which indicated that V. philippica did no damages to GIV particles, but it could disturb GIV binding, entry and replication in host cells. V. philippica had the best inhibitory effects against GIV during viral infection stage of binding and replication in host cells. Overall, the results suggest that appropriate concentration of V. philippica aqueous extracts has great antiviral effects, making it an interesting candidate for developing effective medicines for preventing and controlling GIV infection in farmed groupers.
Regulation of T‐type Ca2+ channel expression by interleukin‐6 in sensory‐like ND7/23 cells post‐herpes simplex virus (HSV‐1) infection
Authors: Zhang Qiaojuan , Hsia Shao‐Chung , Martin‐Caraballo Miguel
Published: March 2019

Herpes simplex virus‐type 1 (HSV‐1) infection of sensory neurons may lead to a significant reduction in the expression of voltage‐activated Na+ and Ca2+ channels, which can disrupt the transmission of pain information. Viral infection also results in the secretion of various pro‐inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)‐6. In this work, we tested whether IL‐6 regulates the expression of Na+ and Ca2+ channels post‐HSV‐1 infection in ND7/23 sensory‐like neurons. Our results demonstrate that HSV‐1 infection causes a significant decrease in the protein expression of the Cav3.2 T‐type Ca2+ channel subunit, despite increasing Cav3.2 mRNA synthesis. Neither Cav3.2 mRNA nor total protein content was affected by IL‐6 treatment post‐HSV‐1 infection. In ND7/23 cells, HSV‐1 infection caused a significant reduction in the expression of Na+ and T‐type Ca2+ channels within 48 h. Exposure of ND7/23 cells to IL‐6 for 24 h post‐infection reverses the effect of HSV‐1, resulting in a significant increase in T‐type Ca2+ current density. However, Na+ currents were not restored by 24‐h treatment with IL‐6 post‐HSV‐1 infection of ND7/23 cells. The ability of IL‐6 to increase the functional expression of T‐type Ca2+ channels on the membrane was blocked by the inhibition of protein trafficking with brefeldin‐A and ERK1/2 activation. These results indicate that IL‐6 release following HSV‐1 infection regulates the expression of T‐type Ca2+ channels, which may alter the transmission of pain information.

image
HIV Testing Among Heterosexual Hispanic Women in South Florida
Authors: Cianelli Rosina , Villegas Natalia , Irarrazabal Lisette , Castro Jose , Ojukwu Emmanuela Nneamaka , Adebayo Oluwamuyiwa Winifred , Ferrer Lilian , Montano Nilda Peragallo
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of selected facilitators, barriers, beliefs, and knowledge suggested by the literature to be associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing among heterosexual Hispanic women.

Design

This study utilizes a cross‐sectional design to analyze secondary data from SEPA III: The Effectiveness Trial. SEPA stands for Salud, Educacion, Prevencion y Autocuidado, which translates to Health, Education, Prevention, and Self‐Care. The Social Cognitive Model (SCM) guided this study.

Methods

Three hundred twenty heterosexual Hispanic women 18 to 50 years of age participated in this study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression.

Findings

The most common facilitators for HIV testing were receiving recommendations from a healthcare provider (HCP) and the test is offered by an HCP rather than women asking for it. The most common barrier to testing was having no reason to believe they were infected. Most women believed a positive test result would encourage them to take better care of themselves. However, as much as 15% of women reported desires to kill or hurt themselves if they test positive. On the other hand, a negative result would make them assume their partners are negative and thus do not need to be tested. Significantly, explanatory variables related to HIV testing were knowledge and the HIV test is offered by an HCP instead of women asking for it.

Conclusions

Strengthening HIV knowledge and offering HIV tests are significant contributions that nurses make to the health of Hispanic women. The SCM can be used to design programs to increase HIV testing among Hispanic women.

Clinical Relevance

Nurses are encouraged to offer testing and provide culturally competent HIV prevention education to increase HIV testing among Hispanic women.
Infections increase the risk of developing Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Mofors J. , Arkema E. V. , Björk A. , Westermark L. , Kvarnström M. , Forsblad‐d'Elia H. , Magnusson Bucher S. , Eriksson P. , Mandl T. , Nordmark G. , Wahren‐Herlenius M.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Environmental factors have been suggested in the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases. We here investigated whether infections increase the risk of developing primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS).

Methods

Patients with pSS in Sweden (n = 945) and matched controls from the general population (n = 9048) were included, and data extracted from the National Patient Register to identify infections occurring before pSS diagnosis during a mean observational time of 16.0 years. Data were analysed using conditional logistic regression models. Sensitivity analyses were performed by varying exposure definition and adjusting for previous health care consumption.

Results

A history of infection associated with an increased risk of pSS (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.6–2.3). Infections were more prominently associated with the development of SSA/SSB autoantibody‐positive pSS (OR 2.7, 95% CI 2.0–3.5). When stratifying the analysis by organ system infected, respiratory infections increased the risk of developing pSS, both in patients with (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.8–4.7) and without autoantibodies (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1–3.8), whilst skin and urogenital infections only significantly associated with the development of autoantibody‐positive pSS (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.8–5.5 and OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.7–4.2). Furthermore, a dose–response relationship was observed for infections and a risk to develop pSS with Ro/SSA and La/SSB antibodies. Gastrointestinal infections were not significantly associated with a risk of pSS.

Conclusions

Infections increase the risk of developing pSS, most prominently SSA/SSB autoantibody‐positive disease, suggesting that microbial triggers of immunity may partake in the pathogenetic process of pSS.
It’s in the Mix: How Firms Configure Resource Mobilization for New Product Success
Authors: Thornton Sabrina C. , Henneberg Stephan C. , Leischnig Alexander , Naudé Peter
Published: March 2019

This paper aims to deepen the understanding about when and how the mobilization of resources through strong and weak ties in a focal firm’s network can affect new product success. It addresses two significant gaps in the literature. While prior research has advanced the understanding of how factors around tie strength, resource mobilization, and environmental characteristics relate to new product development, it has yet to offer a more holistic understanding of the interconnected structures and the interplay among these factors. Furthermore, limited insights exist about how firms could utilize resource mobilization approaches in different environmental contexts to enhance new product success. Building on resource dependence theory, this paper contributes to prior work by adopting configuration theoretical considerations and performing an empirical investigation to identify necessary and sufficient conditions for new product success. Based on data from a survey of 354 managers from manufacturing and services firms in the United Kingdom, the study conducts a configurational comparative study based on fuzzy‐set Qualitative Comparative Analysis to examine configurations of strong‐tie and weak‐tie resource mobilization approaches within particular environmental contexts for new product success. The findings reveal alternative, equifinal configurations for new product success, and add to the existing body of work by connecting the notions of network ties, resource mobilization, and context dependence, as well as by developing an integrative framework to explain the interplay of remote and proximate conditions for new product success. For management practice, this study offers guidance in describing and diagnosing business contexts that enhance new product success, and in identifying resource mobilization action repertoires to capitalize on these contexts.
First bathing time of newborn infants after birth: A comparative analysis
Authors: Gözen Duygu , Çaka Sinem Y. , Beşirik Selda A. , Perk Yıldız
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The study was designed as an experimental study to describe the effect of the first bathing time on the body temperature and skin moisture of a newborn after birth.

Design and Methods

The study population consisted of term newborns between January and June 2016 in the Istanbul University, Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty Hospital at Istanbul. The sample group was randomly divided into two groups according to different bathing times. The first group (39 infants) was given a bath 24 hr after birth, and the second group (34 infants) was given a bath 48 hr after birth. The infants in both the groups were dried with the first towel and then wrapped in a second dry towel, and a cap put to prevent hypothermia and to minimize any minor fluid loss. The body temperature and skin moisture level were measured before the bath, after the bath, and 10 min after the bath.

Results

It was determined that the 10th‐minute body temperatures of the infants with the first bathing time 48 hr after birth were significantly higher compared with the infants with the first bath time 24 hr after birth (Z = −2.654;
p = .008).

Practical Implications

Postponing of the first bathing time of newborns to 48 hr after birth was effective in preserving the body temperature of the infant. Postponing the bath to the 48th hr improved moisture, which may improve skin integrity and aid with skin development.
Granger Causality Testing in Mixed‐Frequency VARs with Possibly (Co)Integrated Processes
Authors: Götz Thomas B. , Hecq Alain W.
Published: March 2019

We analyze Granger causality (GC) testing in mixed‐frequency vector autoregressions (MF‐VARs) with possibly integrated or cointegrated time series. It is well known that conducting inference on a set of parameters is dependent on knowing the correct (co)integration order of the processes involved. Corresponding tests are, however, known to often suffer from size distortions and/or a loss of power. Our approach works for MF variables that are stationary, integrated of an arbitrary order, or cointegrated. As it only requires the estimation of a MF‐VAR in levels with appropriately adjusted lag length, after which GC tests can be conducted using simple standard Wald tests, it is of great practical appeal. In addition, we show that the presence of non‐stationary and trivially cointegrated high‐frequency regressors leads to standard distributions when testing for causality on a subset of parameters, sometimes even without any need to augment the VAR order. Monte Carlo simulations and two applications involving the oil price and consumer prices as well as GDP and industrial production in Germany illustrate our approach.
Untargeted metabolomic profiling of serum from dogs with chronic hepatic disease
Authors: Lawrence Yuri A. , Bishop Micah A. , Honneffer Julia B. , Cook Audrey K. , Rodrigues‐Hoffmann Aline , Steiner Jörg M. , Suchodolski Jan S. , Lidbury Jonathan A.
Published: March 2019

Background

Chronic hepatopathies present a diagnostic challenge, with different diseases being associated with similar clinical and laboratory findings. Characterization of dogs with chronic hepatopathies can be difficult and require costly diagnostic procedures such as acquisition of a liver biopsy specimen. Noninvasive and inexpensive biomarkers that reliably characterize chronic hepatopathies such as chronic hepatitis or a congenital portosystemic vascular anomaly may decrease the need for costly or invasive diagnostic testing and guide novel therapeutic interventions.

Objective

To investigate differences in the serum metabolome among healthy dogs, dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts, and dogs with chronic hepatitis.

Animals

Stored serum samples from 12 healthy dogs, 10 dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts, and 6 dogs with chronic hepatitis were analyzed.

Methods

The serum metabolome was analyzed with an untargeted metabolomics approach using gas chromatography–quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry.

Results

Principal component analysis and heat dendrogram plots of the metabolomics data showed clustering among individuals in each group. Random forest analysis showed differences in the abundance of various metabolites including increased aromatic amino acids and xylitol in dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts. Based on the univariate statistics, 50 metabolites were significantly different among groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The serum metabolome varies among healthy dogs, dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts, and dogs with chronic hepatitis. Statistical analysis identified several metabolites that differentiated healthy dogs from dogs with vascular or parenchymal liver disease. Further targeted assessment of these metabolites is needed to confirm their diagnostic reliability.
Pharmacokinetics, metabolism and excretion of celecoxib, a selective cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitor, in horses
Authors: Subhahar Michael Benedict , Singh Jaipaul , Albert Peter Henry , Kadry Ahmed Mahmoud
Published: March 2019

Celecoxib, a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug, is frequently used to treat arthritis in humans with minimal gastrointestinal side effect compared to traditionalNSAIDs. The primary aim of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetic profile of celecoxib—a selective cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) inhibitor in horses. Six horses were administered a single oral dose of celecoxib at 2 mg/kg (body weight). After oral dosing, the drug reached a maximum concentration (mean ± SD) in blood of 1,088 ± 324 ng/ml in 4.58 hr. The elimination half‐life was 13.60 ± 3.18 hr, and the area under the curve was 24,142 ± 1,096 ng hr ml−1. The metabolism of celecoxib in horses was via a single oxidative pathway in which the methyl group of celecoxib is oxidized to a hydroxymethyl metabolite and is further oxidized to form a carboxylic acid metabolite. Celecoxib is eliminated mainly through faeces as unchanged drug and as metabolites in urine. Therefore, instructions for a detection time following therapeutic dosing of celecoxib can be set by the racing practitioner and veterinarians to control illegal use in horse racing based on the results of this study.
Assessing the Impact of State Human Trafficking Legislation on Criminal Justice System Outcomes
Authors: Farrell Amy , Bouché Vanessa , Wolfe Dana
Published: March 2019

Since 2003, state legislatures in the United States have been active in passing legislation aimed at combating human trafficking. To date, all states have passed laws that criminalize acts of human trafficking, though with significant variation in the penalty structure and associated legal provisions. This article examines what aspects of state human trafficking laws are most impactful at increasing the arrest and prosecution of human trafficking suspects. Using panel data on state laws and associated enforcement actions from 2003 to 2012, this study confirms that more comprehensive state laws that invest in antitrafficking resources are most strongly associated with human trafficking arrests and prosecutions. States that make legislative provisions for victim assistance, law enforcement training, statutory task forces, and mandatory reporting have higher antitrafficking criminal enforcement. The political environment in which state human trafficking laws are enacted also influences their enforcement.
Mathematical model to predict B‐type natriuretic peptide levels in haemodialysis patients
Authors: Touzot Maxime , Seris Pascal , Maheas Catherine , Vanmassenhove Jill , Langlois Anne‐Lyse , Moubakir Kamal , Laplanche Sophie , Petitclerc Thierry , Ridel Christophe , Lavielle Marc
Published: March 2019

Aim

Clinical interpretation of B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels in haemodialysis (HD) patients for fluid management remains elusive.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational monocentric study. We built a mathematical model to predict BNP levels, using multiple linear regressions. Fifteen clinical/biological characteristics associated with BNP variation were selected. A first cohort of 150 prevalent HD (from September 2015 to March 2016) was used to build several models. The best model proposed was internally validated in an independent cohort of 75 incidents HD (from March 2016 to December 2017).

Results

In cohort 1, mean BNP level was 630 ± 717 ng/mL. Cardiac disease (CD – stable coronary artery disease and/or atrial fibrillation) was present in 45% of patients. The final model includes age, systolic blood pressure, albumin, CD, normo‐hydrated weight (NHW) and the fluid overload (FO) assessed by bio‐impedancemetry. The correlation between the measured and the predicted log‐BNP was 0.567 and 0.543 in cohorts 1 and 2, respectively. Age (β = 3.175e−2, P < 0.001), CD (β = 5.243e−1, P < 0.001) and FO (β = 1.227e−1, P < 0.001) contribute most significantly to the BNP level, respectively, but within a certain range. We observed a logistic relationship between BNP and age between 30 and 60 years, after which this relationship was lost. BNP level was inversely correlated with NHW independently of CD. Finally, our model allows us to predict the BNP level according to the FO.

Conclusion

We developed a mathematical model capable of predicting the BNP level in HD. Our results show the complex contribution of age, CD and FO on BNP level.
Petrocodon tongziensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from limestone areas in Guizhou, China based on morphological and molecular evidence
Authors: Zhang Ren‐Bo , Deng Tan , Fu Long‐Fei , Li Shu , He Lin , Dou Quan‐Li , Wen Fang
Published: March 2019

Petrocodon tongziensis R.B.Zhang & F.Wen, a new species from northern Guizhou province, China, is described and illustrated based on molecular and morphological evidence. The new species was found growing in crevices and on tufa of moist surfaces of limestone hills in Tongzi County. A maximum parsimony (MP) analysis based on the combined ITS and trnL‐F DNA regions showed that the new species falls within a large polytomy within Petrocodon, but is resolved as most closely related to an unidentified species (WF2014) and these two taxa are in turn resolved as sister to Petrocodon hunanensis X.L.Yu & Ming Li. This is congruent with the fact that both P. hunanensis and P. tongziensis have four fertile stamens, a character state likely to be an ancestral state distinguishing this clade from the rest of Petrocodon. Petrocodon tongziensis differs from P. hunanensis by lacking a terrestrial stem, as well as by the number of bracts, presence of bracteoles, shape of the lobes of the upper lip, and reduced number and length of staminodes.
Leaf and stem epicuticular wax structures in Lonicera species (Caprifoliaceae)
Authors: Tomaszewski Dominik , Byalt Alexey , Gawlak Magdalena
Published: March 2019

Epicuticular waxes are found on the surface of the plant epidermis as crystal structures which show morphological diversity and may be useful in plant systematics. The aim of this study was to recognise the diversity of the epicuticular wax cover on leaves and stems of Lonicera species (Caprifoliaceae) and to estimate the taxonomic value of wax traits. Adaxial and abaxial sides of the leaves and the stem surface in 35 taxa were investigated through a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The assessment was prepared on the basis of the presence or absence of basic types of wax structures and their dimensions, using categorical response analysis, multiple correspondence analysis and cluster analysis.

In the analysed species, we found differences in the wax layer structure on the surfaces of the leaves and stems. Apart from the smooth layer, tubules and platelets can be found. Tubules are considerably more frequent than platelets. In many cases, the same plant part produces more than just one wax type.

Our analysis indicates that wax structures are not very informative for the taxonomy of Lonicera, because we observed only a weak correspondence between the presence or absence of some types of wax tubules and the infrageneric classification of the genus. However, in particular cases these new data can be used for species identification.
CITED2 mediates the mechanical loading–induced suppression of adipokines in the infrapatellar fat pad
Authors: Liu Lidi , He Zhiyong , Xu Lin , Lu Laijin , Feng Haotian , Leong Daniel J. , Kim Sun J. , Hirsh David M. , Majeska Robert J. , Goldring Mary B. , Cobelli Neil J. , Sun Hui B.
Published: March 2019

Adipokines secreted from the infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP), such as adipsin and adiponectin, have been implicated in osteoarthritis pathogenesis. CITED2, a mechanosensitive transcriptional regulator with chondroprotective activity, may modulate their expression.Cited2haploinsufficient mice (Cited2+/−) on a high‐fat diet (HFD) exhibited increased body weight and increased IPFP area compared to wild‐type (WT) mice on an HFD. While an exercise regimen of moderate treadmill running induced the expression of CITED2, as well as PGC‐1α, and reduced the expression of adipsin and adiponectin in the IPFP of WT mice on an HFD,Cited2haploinsufficiency abolished the loading‐induced expression of PGC‐1α and loading‐induced suppression of adipsin and adiponectin. Furthermore, knocking down or knocking outCITED2in adipose stem cells (ASCs)/preadipocytes derived from the IPFPin vitroled to the increased expression of adipsin and adiponectin and reduced PGC‐1α, and abolished the loading‐induced suppression of adipsin and adiponectin and loading‐induced expression of PGC‐1α. Overexpression of PGC‐1α in these ASC/preadipocytes reversed the effects caused by CITED2 deficiency. The current data suggest that CITED2 is a critical regulator in physiologic loading‐induced chondroprotection in the context of an HFD and PGC‐1α is required for the inhibitory effects of CITED2 on the expression of adipokines such as adipsin and adiponectin in the IPFP.
Sputum from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients inhibits T cell migration in a microfluidic device
Authors: Ren Xiaoou , Wu Jiandong , Levin David , Santos Susy , de Faria Ricardo Lobato , Zhang Michael , Lin Francis
Published: March 2019

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung disease characterized by narrowed airways, resulting in serious breathing difficulty. Previous studies have demonstrated that inflammatory infiltration of leukocytes in the airway is associated with the pathogenesis of COPD. In the present study, we employed a microfluidic approach to assess the effect of COPD sputum on activated human peripheral blood T cell migration and chemotaxis under well‐controlled gradient conditions. Our results showed considerable basal migration of T cells derived from peripheral blood of COPD patients and healthy controls in the medium control groups. By contrast, the migration of T cells from COPD patients and healthy controls was significantly inhibited in the presence of a gradient of sputum supernatant from COPD patients. Furthermore, chemotaxis of T cells from COPD patients or healthy subjects toward an SDF‐1α gradient was clearly inhibited by sputum samples from the COPD patients. The inhibition effect revealed by the microfluidic cell migration experiments provides new information about the complex involvement of T cell trafficking in COPD.
Plausible role of bacterial toxin–antitoxin system in persister cell formation and elimination
Authors: Paul Prajita , Sahu Bikash R. , Suar Mrutyunjay
Published: March 2019

Although, a large proportion of pathogenic bacteria gets eliminated from hosts after antibiotic treatment, a fraction of population confronts against such effects and undergoes growth arrest to form persisters. Persistence in bacteria is a dormant physiological state where cells escape the effects of antimicrobials as well as other host immune defences without any genetic mutations. The state of dormancy is achieved through various complex phenomena and it is known that a gene pair named as toxin–antitoxin (TA) acts as a key player of persister cell formation where the toxin is activated either stochastically or after an environmental insult, thereby silencing the physiological processes. However, the controversial role of TA modules in persister cell formation has also been documented with reasonable clarity. Persisters may revert back from state of quiescence and regrow when conditions become favourable for their propagation. Therefore, the elimination of dormant bacteria is crucial, and currently, research interest is highly focussed on developing several antipersister strategies that may kill persister bacteria by targeting different molecules. It is worth examining these targets to develop appropriate therapeutic interventions against bacterial infections and it is believed that earmarking TA system can be a novel approach for resuscitation of persisters. In this review, we discussed the role of TA modules in mediating persistence with highlighting on the debatable issues regarding contribution of these modules in dormant bacteria formation. Furthermore, we discussed if these modules in bacteria can be targeted for successful elimination of dormant persister cells.
A scoring algorithm for the accurate differential diagnosis of regular wide QRS complex tachycardia
Authors: Pachón Marta , Arias Miguel A. , Salvador‐Montañés Óscar , Calvo David , Peñafiel Pablo , Puchol Alberto , Martín‐Sierra Cristina , Akerström Finn , Pachón Nicolás , Rodríguez‐Padial Luis , Almendral Jesús
Published: March 2019

Background

The differential diagnosis of regular wide QRS complex tachycardia (RWQRST) remains the subject of numerous publications, all of which aim at diagnosis during the acute phase. Although an accurate diagnosis is necessary to make long‐term decisions, it often leads to invasive testing.

Methods

Criteria with high positive predictive values (PPVs) for diagnosis can be obtained by analyzing the electrocardiogram (ECG) data during RWQRST and comparing them with these data at baseline. By assigning points to these criteria, a scoring algorithm to accurately diagnose numerous patients can be obtained. A total of 352 consecutive patients with RWQRST were included. Two electrophysiologists blind to patient condition analyzed the 16 criteria considered as having high PPVs.

Results

A total of 149 (42.3%) cases were supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), and 203 (57.7%) cases were ventricular tachycardia (VT). A higher percentage of patients with VT had structural heart disease (86.7% vs 16.1%). Seven of the 16 criteria analyzed had PPVs > 95%, and each criterion was assigned a score. A final score of –1 was indicative of SVT (PPV 98%); a score of 1 was indicative of VT (PPV 98%); and a score of ≥2 was indicative of VT (PPV 100%). A score of ≠0 was obtained for 51.7% of all cases of tachycardia, making it possible to reach a highly accurate diagnosis in approximately half of all cases. No cases of VT scored –1, and no cases of SVT scored ≥2.

Conclusions

The current scoring system stands out for its high PPV (98%) and specificity (98%), enabling an accurate diagnosis for more than half of the patients.
A Cross‐Cultural Validation of the Multidimensional Pain Readiness to Change Questionnaire 2 for Japanese Individuals With Chronic Pain
Authors: Adachi Tomonori , Sunohara Momoka , Ogawa Masashi , Enomoto Kiyoka , Fujita Yoshitsugu , Mizuno Yasuyuki , Miki Kenji , Yukioka Masao , Maeda Lynn , Nishiwaki Yuko , Itoh Kazuki , Nakanishi Miho , Iwashita Narihito , Kitagawa Hirotoshi , Sasaki Jun , Jensen Mark P. , Fukui Sei
Published: March 2019

Objectives

The Multidimensional Pain Readiness to Change Questionnaire 2 (MPRCQ2) is a reliable and valid measure that assesses readiness to adopt a variety of discrete pain self‐management responses. We sought to translate and evaluate psychometric properties of the Japanese version of the MPRCQ2 (MPRCQ2‐J) in individuals with chronic pain.

Methods

One hundred seventy‐three individuals with chronic pain were asked to complete the MPRCQ2‐J, as well as measures assessing pain intensity, pain interference, self‐efficacy, and general readiness to adopt a self‐management approach for pain. Forty‐eight of these participants provided additional MPRCQ2‐J data to assess test‐retest reliability.

Results

The findings supported a 2‐factor structure of the MPRCQ2‐J when error covariances between the some of the nine primary scales were allowed. Adequate internal consistencies of the MPRCQ2‐J scales (Cronbach's α ranged 0.71 to 0.86), except for the total score (α = 0.68), were observed. However, adequate test‐retest reliabilities (intraclass correlation coefficients ≥ 0.60) were found for only 59% of the MPRCQ2‐J scales. The MPRCQ2‐J evidenced its construct validity via confirmation of the predicted patterns of associations with validity criterion measures and the anticipated effects of participation in an exercise treatment.

Discussion

The findings support the internal consistency (except for the total score) and construct validity for MPRCQ2‐J scales. However, potential limitations with respect to test‐retest reliability of some of the scales were also suggested. The MPRCQ2‐J can be used to examine the role that specific readiness domains of pain self‐management responses may play in an adjustment process in Japanese individuals with chronic pain.
The Role of Uncertainty in Regulating E‐Cigarettes: The Emergence of a Regulatory Regime, 2005‐15
Authors: Newman Joshua
Published: March 2019

Increasingly, the regulation of public health hazards is subject to an appraisal of the risk of harm to various target populations. However, an expanding body of evidence suggests that when faced with a deficit of information concerning a particular public health risk, governments and regulators do very little to address the risk directly. By examining the case of the first ten years of the availability of electronic cigarettes (2005‐15), this article illustrates a scenario in which regulation to manage public health risks does not occur, because there is insufficient information to support a particular course of action. It then argues that when information is sparse, regulators can find themselves in a zone of uncertainty within which regulatory action can be a significant challenge.

Related Articles

Givel, Michael S., and Andrew L. Spivak. 2008. “Public Management and the Public Good: The Case of Oklahoma’s 2002 Secondhand Tobacco Smoke Rules.” Politics & Policy 36 (3): 430‐447. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2008.00115.x

Harvey, Olivia. 2009. “Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research in the United States: Some Policy Options for Industry Development.” Politics & Policy 37 (1): 51‐71. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2008.00161.x

Pautz, Michelle C. 2009. “Trust between Regulators and the Regulated: A Case Study of Environmental Inspectors and Facility Personnel in Virginia.” Politics & Policy 37 (5): 1047‐1072. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2009.00210.x

Related Media

Baird, Craig. 2016. “Effects of Vaping Up in the Air; City Plans to Follow Provincial Legislation Regarding Smoking Bans.” The Leader‐Post (Regina, Canada). May 14, A8.

Britton, John, and Ilze Bogdanovica. 2014. Electronic Cigarettes: A Report Commissioned by Public Health England. London: Public Health England. https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/311887/Ecigarettes_report.pdf

Galewitz, Phil. 2016. “Here’s What’s Clear as FDA Regulates Vaping.” The Washington Post. No. 05/2016. https://www.pressreader.com/usa/the-washington-post/20160510/283162902808111
Adherence to supportive periodontal treatment
Authors: Echeverría José J. , Echeverría Ana , Caffesse Raúl G.
Published: March 2019

Like any other chronic disease, periodontal disease can be treated, but not eradicated. Personal maintenance of periodontal health requires the continuous elimination of bacterial accumulation at the gingival level, which demands periodical professional assistance. Of upmost importance is the patient being able to actively follow the counsel of the care providers. Thus, patient compliance, adherence, and persistence are paramount for the long‐term success of periodontal therapy. Unfortunately, in medicine as well as in dentistry, most studies show that, sooner rather than later, an unacceptable percentage of patients quit maintenance care. However, different studies have shown that there are behavioral techniques which may significantly improve the degree of motivation, compliance and persistence of patients with oral hygiene and supportive periodontal treatment. The right interval between maintenance visits has not been determined yet, but should be implemented according to patient needs, which do not necessarily coincide with the standard three‐month interval historically accepted as adequate. Adherence to periodontal maintenance results in reduction of plaque and bleeding on probing, and potentially slowing down or halting the disease progression. Finally, based on numerous retrospective studies, patient compliance could be considered a disease‐modifying factor positively affecting tooth survival. However, a lack of randomized clinical trials means this last statement is still open to question.
The Riemann–Hilbert analysis to the Pollaczek–Jacobi type orthogonal polynomials
Authors: Chen Min , Chen Yang , Fan En‐Gui
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we study polynomials orthogonal with respect to a Pollaczek–Jacobi type weight
urn:x-wiley:00222526:media:sapm12259:sapm12259-math-0001The uniform asymptotic expansions for the monic orthogonal polynomials on the interval (0,1) and outside this interval are obtained. Moreover, near , the uniform asymptotic expansion involves Airy function as , and Bessel function of order α as in the neighborhood of , the uniform asymptotic expansion is associated with Bessel function of order β as . The recurrence coefficients and leading coefficient of the orthogonal polynomials are expressed in terms of a particular Painlevé III transcendent. We also obtain the limit of the kernel in the bulk of the spectrum. The double scaled logarithmic derivative of the Hankel determinant satisfies a σ‐form Painlevé III equation. The asymptotic analysis is based on the Deift and Zhou's steepest descent method.
Hybrid sequencing reveals insight into heat sensing and signaling of bread wheat
Authors: Wang Xiaoming , Chen Siyuan , Shi Xue , Liu Danni , Zhao Peng , Lu Yunze , Cheng Yanbing , Liu Zhenshan , Nie Xiaojun , Song Weining , Sun Qixin , Xu Shengbao , Ma Chuang
Published: March 2019

Wheat (Triticum aestivumL.), a globally important crop, is challenged by increasing temperatures (heat stress,HS). However its polyploid nature, the incompleteness of its genome sequences and annotation, the lack of comprehensiveHS‐responsive transcriptomes and the unexplored heat sensing and signaling of wheat hinder our full understanding of its adaptations toHS. The recently released genome sequences of wheat, as well as emerging single‐molecular sequencing technologies, provide an opportunity to thoroughly investigate the molecular mechanisms of the wheat response toHS. We generated a high‐resolution spatio‐temporal transcriptome map of wheat flag leaves and filling grain underHSat 0 min, 5 min, 10 min, 30 min, 1 h and 4 h by combining full‐length single‐molecular sequencing and Illumina short reads sequencing. This hybrid sequencing newly discovered 4947 loci and 70 285 transcripts, generating the comprehensive and dynamic list ofHS‐responsive full‐length transcripts and complementing the recently released wheat reference genome. Large‐scale analysis revealed a global landscape of heat adaptations, uncovering unexpected rapid heat sensing and signaling, significant changes of more than half ofHS‐responsive genes within 30 min, heat shock factor‐dependent and ‐independent heat signaling, and metabolic alterations in earlyHS‐responses. Integrated analysis also demonstrated the differential responses and partitioned functions between organs and subgenomes, and suggested a differential pattern of transcriptional and alternative splicing regulation in theHSresponse. This study provided comprehensive data for dissecting molecular mechanisms of earlyHSresponses in wheat and highlighted the genomic plasticity and evolutionary divergence of polyploidy wheat.
Structural analysis of chloroplast tail‐anchored membrane protein recognition by ArsA1
Authors: Lin Tai‐Wen , Chen Chi‐Chih , Wu Shu‐Mei , Chang Yu‐Ching , Li Yi‐Chuan , Su Yu‐Wang , Hsiao Chwan‐Deng , Chang Hsin‐Yang
Published: March 2019

In mammals and yeast, tail‐anchored (TA) membrane proteins destined for the post‐translational pathway are safely delivered to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane by a well‐known targeting factor, TRC40/Get3. In contrast, the underlying mechanism for translocation of TA proteins in plants remains obscure. How this unique eukaryotic membrane‐trafficking system correctly distinguishes different subsets of TA proteins destined for various organelles, including mitochondria, chloroplasts and the ER, is a key question of long standing. Here, we present crystal structures of algal ArsA1 (the Get3 homolog) in a distinct nucleotide‐free open state and bound to adenylyl‐imidodiphosphate. This approximately 80‐kDa protein possesses a monomeric architecture, with two ATPase domains in a single polypeptide chain. It is capable of binding chloroplast (TOC34 and TOC159) and mitochondrial (TOM7) TA proteins based on features of its transmembrane domain as well as the regions immediately before and after the transmembrane domain. Several helices located above the TA‐binding groove comprise the interlocking hook‐like motif implicated by mutational analyses in TA substrate recognition. Our data provide insights into the molecular basis of the highly specific selectivity of interactions of algal ArsA1 with the correct sets of TA substrates before membrane targeting in plant cells.
Crystal structures of rhamnosyltransferase UGT89C1 from Arabidopsis thaliana reveal the molecular basis of sugar donor specificity for UDP‐β‐l‐rhamnose and rhamnosylation mechanism
Authors: Zong Guangning , Fei Shuang , Liu Xiao , Li Jie , Gao Yanrong , Yang Xue , Wang Xiaoqiang , Shen Yuequan
Published: March 2019

Glycosylation is a key modification for most molecules including plant natural products, for example, flavonoids and isoflavonoids, and can enhance the bioactivity and bioavailability of the natural products. The crystal structure of plant rhamnosyltransferase UGT89C1 from Arabidopsis thaliana was determined, and the structures of UGT89C1 in complexes with UDP‐β‐l‐rhamnose and acceptor quercetin revealed the detailed interactions between the enzyme and its substrates. Structural and mutational analysis indicated that Asp356, His357, Pro147 and Ile148 are key residues for sugar donor recognition and specificity for UDP‐β‐l‐rhamnose. The mutant H357Q exhibited activity with both UDP‐β‐l‐rhamnose and UDP‐glucose. Structural comparison and mutagenesis confirmed that His21 is a key residue as the catalytic base and the only catalytic residue involved in catalysis independently as UGT89C1 lacks the other catalytic Asp that is highly conserved in other reported UGTs and forms a hydrogen bond with the catalytic base His. Ser124 is located in the corresponding position of the catalytic Asp in other UGTs and is not able to form a hydrogen bond with His21. Mutagenesis further showed that Ser124 may not be important in its catalysis, suggesting that His21 and acceptor may form an acceptor‐His dyad and UGT89C1 utilizes a catalytic dyad in catalysis instead of catalytic triad. The information of structure and mutagenesis provides structural insights into rhamnosyltransferase substrate specificity and rhamnosylation mechanism.