bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age‐associated proteomic alterations in human aortic media
Authors: Miura Yuri , Tsumoto Hiroki , Iwamoto Machiko , Yamaguchi Yuya , Ko Pojui , Soejima Yurie , Yoshida Shoko , Toda Tosifusa , Arai Tomio , Hamamatsu Akihiko , Endo Tamao , Sawabe Motoji
Published: August 2019

Aim

Human vascular senescence, which mainly occurs in media, is not completely understood. Here, we used proteomic approaches to investigate age‐associated changes in human aortic media with the goal of understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying vascular senescence.

Method

Cryopreserved autopsy samples of aortic media from older‐aged (aged 70–100 years, n = 25), middle‐aged (aged 49–68 years, n = 24), and young (aged 21–39 years, n = 12) subjects were collected. We used two proteomic techniques, two‐dimensional differential gel electrophoresis and isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation, and we subjected differentially‐expressed proteins among age groups to immunohistochemical analyses.

Results

Proteomic analyses showed that the expression of lactadherin, which produces medin, was elevated in aortic media of older‐aged individuals. Immunohistochemical and Congo red staining showed that lactadherin and apolipoprotein E were deposited, and that amyloidosis was enhanced in older‐aged aortic media. Furthermore, the markers of oxidative damage (8‐hydroxy‐2'‐deoxyguanosine and 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal) were significantly elevated in aortic media of middle‐aged or older‐aged individuals. The immunohistochemical expression of anti‐oxidant proteins (thioredoxin and extracellular superoxide dismutase) was also high in middle‐aged and older‐aged groups. Oxidative damage might induce the disruption of smooth muscle cells, resulting in the decrement of α‐actin, a highly‐expressed protein in smooth muscle cells, and matrix remodeling, in which several proteins associated with extracellular matrix were altered with aging.

Conclusions

Proteomic approaches showed that the elevated expression of lactadherin might contribute to amyloid deposition, enhancement of oxidative stress, induction of antioxidant proteins and matrix remodeling in older‐aged aortic media. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 1054–1062.
First‐generation migrants become grandparents: how migration backgrounds affect intergenerational relationships
Authors: RAMOS ANNE CAROLINA , MARTINS HEIDI RODRIGUES
Published: August 2019

First‐generation migrants are not only reaching the age of retirement, but they are also becoming grandparents in the host society. Through the specific case of Portuguese migrants in Luxembourg, we look at what point their migration background becomes important to their intergenerational relationships. We have acquired the data for this article from biographical narrative interviews with ten older first‐generation grandparents and ten second‐generation parents. On the basis of these findings, we address three important aspects of intergenerational relations: (i) how first‐generation migrants socialize their grandchildren, (ii) grandparental mobility patterns and their embeddedness in practices of socialization and care, and (iii) the challenges produced by language in intergenerational relationships.
Effect of cold stress on gene expression and functional pathways in maize root system
Authors: Ma Yanhua , Li Suiyan , Lin Hong , Pan Liyan , Yang Guowei , Lai Yanhua , Sun Dequan
Published: August 2019

This study aimed to explore the key genes and associated functions involved in the cold response of maize root under low temperature. The gene expression profiling GSE72508 was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus database, which included four maize varieties. Genes that were differentially expressed in maize primary root under cold conditions and normal conditions were screened in four varieties. These genes were performed functional enrichment analyses and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network establishment. Furthermore, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of four varieties were compared through Venn diagram to further screen key genes induced by cold stress. Totally, 116, 140, 94 and 101 DEGs were screened between cold treatment and control groups in four varieties, respectively. They were significantly enriched in functions of carbohydrate metabolic and biosynthetic processes, polysaccharide metabolic and biosynthetic processes, and glycogen metabolic and biosynthetic processes, as well as pathway of starch and sucrose metabolism, photosynthesis and ribosome. Venn diagram analysis identified two common DEGs between the four varieties: LOC100282063 and eno1. Cold stress may influence the normal growth and development of maize through changing the metabolism and biosynthesis of sugar, as well as affecting the photosynthesis. Additionally, LOC100281989 and eno1 may be key genes involved in cold response of maize under low temperature.
The importance of seasonal environmental factors in the foraging habitat selection of Alpine Ring Ouzels Turdus torquatus alpestris
Authors: Barras Arnaud G. , Marti Sophie , Ettlin Sarah , Vignali Sergio , Resano‐Mayor Jaime , Braunisch Veronika , Arlettaz Raphaël
Published: August 2019

Species inhabiting mountain ecosystems are expected to be particularly vulnerable to environmental change, yet information on their basic ecology is often lacking. Knowledge from field‐based empirical studies remains essential to refine our understanding of the impact of current habitat alterations and for the consequential development of meaningful conservation management strategies. This study focuses on a poorly investigated and vulnerable mountain bird species in Europe, the Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus. Our aim was to identify the species’ key ecological requirements during the crucial period of nestling provisioning in the context of environmental change. We radiotracked and observed Alpine Ring Ouzels in a high‐density population, investigating their pattern of foraging habitat selection in 2015 and 2017, and evaluated the transferability of these results over a wider geographical range across the SW Swiss Alps. Foraging birds selected, consistently in space and time, short grass swards (< 10 cm) with interspersed patches of accessible and penetrable soils, at intermediate moisture levels (around 40–65% volumetric water content). In Alpine ecosystems, this microhabitat configuration is typically widespread during the spring snowmelt, but extremely seasonal, with a rapid decrease in its availability over the course of the breeding season. This underlines the high vulnerability of the Ring Ouzel to environmental change: an earlier snowmelt could generate a temporal mismatch between the peak of the breeding effort and optimal foraging conditions; however, abandoning grazing activities on semi‐wooded Alpine pastures may further decrease foraging habitat suitability through taller and denser grass swards, and subsequent woody vegetation encroachment. This study provides a mechanistic appraisal of the challenges Ring Ouzels will face in the future, as well as initial guidelines for targeted habitat management within timberline ecotones.
Accounting for differential migration strategies between age groups to monitor raptor population dynamics in the eastern Black Sea flyway
Authors: Vansteelant Wouter M. G. , Wehrmann Jasper , Engelen Dries , Jansen Johannes , Verhelst Brecht , Benjumea Rafa , Cavaillès Simon , Kaasiku Triin , Hoekstra Bart , de Boer Folkert
Published: August 2019

Migration counts can offer a cost‐effective method for monitoring the state of migrant raptor populations. However, differential migration strategies between inexperienced juveniles and experienced non‐juveniles are rarely accounted for when inferring population trends from raptor migration counts. Since 2011, the Batumi Raptor Count (BRC) monitors the autumn migration of more than 1 million raptors along the eastern Black Sea coast in the Republic of Georgia. We also systematically sampled age information to assess differential migration timing between age groups and estimate age‐specific linear trends in abundance between 2011 and 2018 for eight focal species. In so doing we aimed (1) to reassess the global relevance of BRC counts for each species and the potential for monitoring abundance of juveniles and non‐juveniles, and (2) to identify demographic changes underlying recent trends in overall abundance. We found that the mean annual passage of non‐juveniles at Batumi represents at least 1% of the estimated global breeding population of five study species. As expected, counts of juveniles were more variable than counts of non‐juveniles. Yet despite our short monitoring period our models had sufficient statistical power to detect changes in abundance of 10%/year or less for at least one age group in all species except Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus. Our results indicate stable abundance and demography for half of the study species. We also found strong and significant increases in the abundance of Black Kites Milvis migrans and Short‐toed Eagles Circaetus gallicus that were primarily due to increasing numbers of non‐juveniles. By contrast, juvenile Montagu's Harriers Circus pygargus and Booted Eagles Hieraaetus pennatus significantly decreased in abundance. The first decade of BRC surveys offers an important benchmark for monitoring raptor populations using the eastern African–Palearctic flyway in the 21st century. We discuss possible causes of the observed trends and hope our work will stimulate demographic monitoring at migration count sites.
Dual relational model of perceived overqualification: Employee's self‐concept and task performance
Authors: Li Yi , Wu Mengru , Li Nana , Zhang Man
Published: August 2019

Drawing upon self‐representation theory and using a relationship perspective, we constructed a dual‐path‐moderated mediation model to examine the relationship between employees’ perceived overqualification and task performance. We tested this model with data from a sample of 242 subordinate‐supervisor dyads in Shanghai, China. The results suggested that perceived overqualification had a negative indirect effect on task performance through perceived insider status (PIS), and popularity moderated the negative association between perceived overqualification and PIS. In addition, the relationship between perceived overqualification and task performance via organization‐based self‐esteem was positive when supervisor‐subordinate guanxi was high but negative when it was low. The implications, limitations, and future research directions of these findings are discussed.
Factors linked to interannual variation in the metazoan parasite communities of black skipjack, Euthynnus lineatus (Pisces: Scombridae)
Authors: Miranda‐Delgado Jesus E. , Violante‐González Juan , Monks Scott , Rojas‐Herrera Agustín A. , García‐Ibáñez Sergio , Flores‐Rodríguez Pedro , Romero‐Ramírez Yanet , Santos‐Bustos Nataly G.
Published: August 2019

Marine parasite communities can exhibit temporal and spatial changes in response to seasonal and local variations in several biotic and abiotic environmental factors. Limited attention has been given to the influence of abiotic factors, so their effects on parasite community structure remain unclear. A total of 496 specimens of Euthynnus lineatus were collected over a 7‐year period (2012–2018) from Acapulco Bay, Mexico. Their parasite communities were analyzed to determine if they experience interannual variations due to local biotic and abiotic factors. Thirty‐three metazoan parasite species were recovered and identified: four species of Monogenea (adults); 16 of Digenea (one larvae and 15 adults); two of Acanthocephala (adults); two of Cestoda (larvae); three of Nematoda (two larvae and one adult); and six of Crustacea (three Copepoda, and three Isopoda). Species richness was greatest among the digeneans, which represented 48% of the total species recovered, followed by the crustaceans (19% of total species). Species richness at the component community level (14–24 species) was similar to reported richness in other small tuna species. The component communities and infracommunities of E. lineatus exhibited a similar pattern: high species richness and diversity, and numerical dominance by a single species, mainly by one of the didymozoids Allopseudocolocyntotrema claviforme or Pseudocolocyntotrema yaito. Parasite community structure and species composition varied among sampling years. Variations were possibly caused by a combination of abiotic and biotic factors which generated notable changes in the infection levels of several component species during the study period. These communities may therefore be unpredictable in terms of structure and species composition, as has been suggested for other communities of marine parasites.
OPERATING LEVERAGE AND UNDERINVESTMENT
Authors: Jiao Feng , Nishihara Michi , Zhang Chuanqian
Published: August 2019

Using a contingent claims model, we examine the impacts of both operating leverage and financial leverage on a firm's investment decisions in the context of capacity expansion. Our model shows that quasi‐fixed operating costs could significantly mitigate the underinvestment problem for debt‐financed firms. The existing debt induces equity holders to delay equity‐financed expansion because the expanded earnings base will also benefit the debt holders by lowering the bankruptcy risk. The operating costs decrease this type of wealth transfer from equity holders to debt holders by magnifying the bankruptcy risk of the existing debt upon investment. By applying the Cox proportional hazard model on a large sample of publicly traded U.S. firms over 1966–2016, we offer empirical support for the theoretical predictions. The results are robust to various measures of operating leverage.
CORPORATE LIQUIDITY AND NBER RECESSION ANNOUNCEMENTS
Authors: Stone Anna‐Leigh , Gup Benton E.
Published: August 2019

Using announcement memos released by the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER), we show that corporations increase liquidity during the quarter the NBER announces a peak in the business cycle. This reaction is primarily restricted to memos about peaks in the business cycle, whether it is a preliminary announcement or an official confirmation. Federal Open Market Committee and other monetary policy news, real‐time data releases, and tightening credit conditions do not drive the increase. This finding adds to the precautionary cash holdings literature by suggesting that corporations adjust liquidity not necessarily before recessions, but upon confirmation of a recession.
Defining polycystic ovary syndrome phenotype in Vietnamese women
Authors: Cao Ngoc Thanh , Le Minh Tam , Nguyen Vu Quoc Huy , Pilgrim Justin , Le Viet Nguyen Sa , Le Dinh Duong , Pham Chi Kong , Aharon Devora , Hill Micah J.
Published: August 2019

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the unique phenotype of the Vietnamese polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) population.

Methods

In this multicenter cross‐sectional descriptive study, a total of 901 reproductive‐age women were recruited at three medical centers in Vietnam from June 2016 to May 2018. Group I included 479 patients with PCOS (Rotterdam 2003 consensus) and Group II included 422 non‐PCOS women, consisted of women with regular menstrual cycle, collected at the same time of PCOS recruitment, without ovarian disease or ovarian failure. Main outcome measures were anthropomorphic, serum hormone, ultrasound and physical characteristics of PCOS.

Results

The Vietnamese PCOS population was lean, but with a higher weight and body mass index compared to controls. About 34.4% of PCOS subjects had hirsutism, primarily confined to the leg, arm and pubis. The PCOS population had higher serum luteinizing hormone (LH), LH : follicle stimulating hormone ratio, anti‐Mullerian hormone and testosterone. The PCOS population had double the ovarian volume compared to controls. PCOS subjects had no increase in metabolic disease history and had on average optimal serum markers for low metabolic disease risk. Group D (O + polycystic ovary morphology [PCOM]) was the most prevalent phenotype noted in our Vietnamese PCOS cohort (67.6%). Modified Ferriman–Gallwey, levels of LH, testosterone and anti‐Mullerian hormone were highest in Group A (O + H + PCOM) and lowest in Group D (O + PCOM).

Conclusion

The Vietnamese PCOS population is characterized by a lean body type, nonfacial hirsutism, anovulatory, enlarged ovaries and typical PCOS serum hormone markers, low risk factors for metabolic syndrome. Nonclassical phenotypes for PCOS were more frequent than the classic phenotype.
Is toombak a risk factor for oral leukoplakia and oral squamous cell carcinoma ? A systematic review
Authors: Patil Shankargouda , Arakeri Gururaj , Alamir Abdul Wahab H. , Patil Shekhar , Awan Kamran Habib , Baeshen Hosam , Raj Thirumal , Fonseca Felipe Paiva , Brennan Peter A.
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Toombak is a form of smokeless tobacco that is not well known in Western Society but is widely used by the Sudanese population and many others in the sub‐Sahara region. However, unlike other smokeless tobacco products, information on the carcinogenic potential of toombak is scarce. The present review explored any potential epidemiological association between the use of toombak and oral leukoplakia and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods

Databases including the Web of Science, SCOPUS, EMBASE and PubMed were searched for literature on the potential association between toombak and oral leukoplakia and OSCC. The search also included grey literature. The search period extended from 1990 to 2018. Following data mining, the study selection was conducted by two reviewers independently.

Results

Eight studies that satisfied the inclusion criteria were included. Based on these results, there was a threefoldto sevenfold increased risk of developing the oral leukoplakia and oral squamous cell carcinoma among toombak users compared with non‐users.

Conclusion

Based on the results of the systematic review, there is a strong epidemiological evidence to suggest toombak to be a major risk factor for both oral leukoplakia and OSCC. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the molecular pathway of toombak‐induced oral carcinogenesis.
Retrospective audit of referral and triage pathways of paediatric patients with constipation and soiling
Authors: Trajanovska Misel , Liew Amos , Gibb Susan , Goldfeld Sharon , King Sebastian K
Published: August 2019

Aim

This study aimed to explore referral and triage pathways for paediatric patients referred to an Australian hospital with bowel dysfunction (isolated or mixed bowel and bladder).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective audit of patients who attended their first clinic appointment during April to June 2014. Patients were included if they: (i) were a new patient referred for symptoms of constipation, soiling, daytime urinary incontinence or enuresis; and (ii) attended the encopresis, general medicine, continence, gastroenterology, paediatric surgery, urology, renal or Child and Adolescent Mental Health clinic. Patients with an organic cause (e.g. Hirschsprung disease) for their dysfunction were excluded.

Results

Of 1485 new patients seen at our targeted clinics, 281 (18.9%) had symptoms of bowel and/or bladder dysfunction. After excluding patients aged younger than 3 years (n = 43) and those with isolated bladder dysfunction (n = 130), 56 were referred for isolated bowel dysfunction and 52 for mixed bowel and bladder dysfunction. The median wait time from referral to first appointment was 3.8 months. Median wait times varied across symptom groups (isolated bowel, 4.6 months; mixed 3.4 months) and clinics (encopresis, 7.7 months; general medicine, 2.5 months). Over a 12‐month period, patients attended an average of 3.5 appointments (isolated bowel, mean 3 appointments; mixed, mean 4 appointments).

Conclusion

Paediatric patients with symptoms of bowel and bladder dysfunction wait several months to be seen in a public tertiary referral hospital. Alternative pathways for care, such as community‐based primary care, need to be explored to improve timely management.
Folic acid and its metabolite codetermination for pharmacokinetics with circadian rhythms and evaluation of oral bioavailability
Authors: Meng Fanyue , Zhang Guoqing , Wang Caifen , Zhu Rui , Li Haiyan , Xu Jian , Shakya Shailendra , Chen Weidong , Wu Li , Zhang Jiwen
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Pharmacokinetics of vitamins is still a challenge. In this study, folic acid (FA) was used as a model drug and aimed at investigating a reliable method for its detailed pharmacokinetic evaluations.

Methods

An high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and performed to determinate the FA and 5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid (5-methylTHF) simultaneously, which was applied to characterize the circadian rhythms as well as the pharmacokinetics of different preparations.

Key findings

The plasma concentration of 5-methylTHF in fasted state was twofold higher than that in fed state. The circadian rhythms were studied before the pharmacokinetics and revealed that free FA was almost undetected in blank plasma, while 5-methylTHF had a slight decrement at 12:00. Hence, the pharmacokinetics of FA was conducted and showed that the administration of FA solution resulted in enhancing bioavailability of 5-methylTHF comparing with FA raw material suspension, whereas the free FA level in plasma was similar. The mechanism could be that FA was rapidly metabolized to 5-methylTHF in intestinal epithelial cell after absorption, which revealed that intestinal metabolism would affect its bioavailability.

Conclusion

A suitable method was established considering the baseline level, circadian rhythms and intestinal metabolism to investigate the pharmacokinetics of FA for guiding the further research of vitamins.
School food provision in England: A historical journey
Authors: Rose K. , Lake A. A. , Ells L. J. , Brown L.
Published: August 2019

School food provision is an important lever to shape the eating behaviours and dietary intake of school‐aged children and young people, and may help to address issues of childhood obesity, inadequate nutrient intakes and the widening gap of health inequalities. The regulation of school food has been an issue since the 1940s, with the challenges of developing a school food policy that supports health and wellbeing and that can be effectively translated in practice remaining to the present day. This paper examines changes to school food provision in England since the 1940s, with regard to the political structure and decisions made by each respective government. It considers the lessons learned from the development of school food policies over this period and possible ways to improve the standards of school food in the future.
The fairness of Hell
Authors: Hershenov David B.
Published: August 2019

The Christian conception of Hell as everlasting punishment for past sins is confronted with two charges of unfairness. The first is the inequity of an eternal punishment. The never‐ending punishment seems disproportionate to the finite sin (Kershnar, Lewis, Adams). A second and related problem is that the boundary between sins that send one for all eternity to Hell and those sins that are slightly less bad that are compatible with an eternity in Heaven is arbitrary and thus it is unfair that sinners so alike are treated differently (Sider). Hell, as traditionally conceived, is then claimed to be incompatible with God's traditional attributes such as his commitment to justice, omniscience and omnipotence. The unfairness can be avoided by appealing to God's foreknowledge and a debt/atonement theory of punishment. My view is analogous to refusing to parole the unrepentant. If a wrongdoer is eternally defiant, then he can never be released from Hell for his debt won't ever be paid if he isn't reformed and reconciled with the wronged. So it doesn't matter that his initial sin was a finite wrong not deserving of infinite punishment nor a sin no worse than that of the penitent in Heaven.
Multi‐dimensional conservation laws and integrable systems
Authors: Makridin Zakhar V. , Pavlov Maxim V.
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we introduce a new property of two‐dimensional integrable hydrodynamic chains—existence of infinitely many local three‐dimensional conservation laws for pairs of integrable two‐dimensional commuting flows. Infinitely many local three‐dimensional conservation laws for the Benney commuting hydrodynamic chains are constructed. As a by‐product, we established a new method for computation of local conservation laws for three‐dimensional integrable systems. The Mikhalëv equation and the dispersionless limit of the Kadomtsev‐Petviashvili equation are investigated. All known local and infinitely many new quasilocal three‐dimensional conservation laws are presented. Also four‐dimensional conservation laws are considered for couples of three‐dimensional integrable quasilinear systems and for triplets of corresponding hydrodynamic chains.
The overexpression of rice ACYL‐CoA‐BINDING PROTEIN2 increases grain size and bran oil content in transgenic rice
Authors: Guo Ze‐Hua , Haslam Richard P. , Michaelson Louise V , Yeung Edward C. , Lung Shiu‐Cheung , Napier Johnathan A. , Chye Mee‐Len
Published: August 2019

As Oryza sativa (rice) seeds represent food for over three billion people worldwide, the identification of genes that enhance grain size and composition is much desired. Past reports have indicated that Arabidopsis thaliana acyl‐CoA‐binding proteins (ACBPs) are important in seed development but did not affect seed size. Herein, rice OsACBP2 was demonstrated not only to play a role in seed development and germination, but also to influence grain size. OsACBP2 mRNA accumulated in embryos and endosperm of germinating seeds in qRT‐PCR analysis, while β‐glucuronidase (GUS) assays on OsACBP2pro::GUS rice transformants showed GUS expression in embryos, as well as the scutellum and aleurone layer of germinating seeds. Deletion analysis of the OsACBP2 5’‐flanking region revealed five copies of the seed cis‐element, Skn‐I‐like motif (−1486/−1482, −956/−952, −939/−935, −826/−822, and −766/−762), and the removal of any adversely affected expression in seeds, thereby providing a molecular basis for OsACBP2 expression in seeds. When OsACBP2 function was investigated using osacbp2 mutants and transgenic rice overexpressing OsACBP2 (OsACBP2‐OE), osacbp2 was retarded in germination, while OsACBP2‐OEs performed better than the wild‐type and vector‐transformed controls, in germination, seedling growth, grain size and grain weight. Transmission electron microscopy of OsACBP2‐OE mature seeds revealed an accumulation of oil bodies in the scutellum cells, while confocal laser scanning microscopy indicated oil accumulation in OsACBP2‐OE aleurone tissues. Correspondingly, OsACBP2‐OE seeds showed gain in triacylglycerols and long‐chain fatty acids over the vector‐transformed control. As dietary rice bran contains beneficial bioactive components, OsACBP2 appears to be a promising candidate for enriching seed nutritional value.
‘Isolated anti‐HBc’ in blood donors: Significance after implementation of single‐unit nucleic acid amplification test?
Authors: Tiwari Aseem Kumar , Dara Ravi C. , Arora Dinesh , Aggarwal Geet , Sharma Jyoti , Chandnani Madhu , Bhardwaj Gunjan
Published: August 2019

Background

Though seropositivity for anti‐HBc is high in India, neither anti‐HBc nor single‐unit NAT (ID‐NAT) is mandatory. Approximately 10% of blood transfusion services in India employ anti‐HBc (Total) testing, and approximately 50% of these also do NAT testing routinely. Adding anti‐HBc test to transfusion‐transmissible disease testing for screening donated blood remains controversial, especially after introduction of ID‐NAT testing in several centres.

Materials and methods

Prospective study was undertaken where anti‐HBc positive, HBsAg negative and ID‐NAT negative donor samples were investigated for HBeAg, anti‐HBe and anti‐HBs. Isolated anti‐HBc (anti‐HBc positive, HBeAg negative, anti‐HBe negative and anti‐HBs negative) samples were analysed by a sensitive polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results

955/14296 (7·6%) samples were anti‐HBc repeat reactive. While none of these were reactive for HBeAg, 696 samples were in possible convalescent phase (anti‐HBe positive) or resolution phase (anti‐HBs positive). A total of 259 were isolated anti‐HBc positive, and there were two low copy numbers (20 and 17 IU/ml) RT‐PCR positive amongst these. This finding is in agreement with several other studies with HBV DNA positivity in isolated anti‐HBc cases (0–0·91%).

Conclusion

About 0·77% DNA positivity (2/259 isolated anti‐HBc positive) by alternate PCR missed by ID‐NAT underlies the fact that anti‐HBc (Total) testing continues to be relevant in context of enhancing blood safety, especially in medium endemicity region like India. It is also possible to adopt screening algorithm of Japan Red Cross where units are considered transfusable if the anti‐HBs titre is over 100 mIU/ml, and we could have used 35·3% of repeat reactive anti‐HBc units using this approach.
The Effect of 12-Week Regular Pilates, Step and Zumba Training Program on Muscle and Fat Weight
Authors: İmamoğlu Mehmet , Özdenk Serhat
Published: August 2019

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Pilates, Step and Zumba exercises on muscle and fat weight in arms, legs, core abdominal area, and total body.A total of 60 women aged 19 to 62 participated in the study. The mean age was 45±10 years, height was 160±5 cm and weight was 72.31±11.12 kg. Pilates, Step and Zumba exercise program was applied three days a week for a total of 12 weeks. Regional and total muscle and fat weights in the body were analyzed by TANITA MC780. Statistical significance level was determined as p<0.05. In the Pilates exercises group, there was a statistically significant difference between the pre-posttest muscle weights of the arms, core abdominal area and total body (p<0.05) except legs (p>0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between pre-posttest muscle weights in arms, legs, core abdominal area and total body in Step and Zumba exercises group (p>0.05). In Pilates and Step exercise groups, there is a statistically significant difference between pre-posttest fat weights in arms, legs, core abdominal area and total body (p<0.05) except Zumba groups (p>0.05). Pilates, Step and Zumba exercises groups were evaluated among themselves, there was no difference in terms of the arm, leg, core abdominal area, and total body muscle weights both in the pre-post tests (p>0.05). There was a statistically significant difference between all groups in terms of the arm, leg, core abdominal area and total body fat weights in both pre-posttests (p<0.05).Pilates and Step exercises can be recommended to women who want to reduce their weight on arms, legs, core abdominal area and total body fat lose weight.
On Making Fleshly Difference: Humanity and Animality in Gregory of Nyssa
Authors: Meyer Eric Daryl
Published: August 2019

This essay explores the theological stakes of differentiating humanity from animality in Gregory of Nyssa’s treatise De hominis opificio. Gregory’s conviction that the imago dei names an essential affinity to the angelic in human beings corresponds to his need to categorically differentiate humanity from animality. Yet, human affinity to God and the angels persistently threatens to collapse into beastly behavior and dispositions. Despite all Gregory’s efforts to shore up human uniqueness, human animality plays an indispensable (though disavowed) role in his theological anthropology.
Phase-change heterostructure enables ultralow noise and drift for memory operation
Authors: Ding Keyuan , Wang Jiangjing , Zhou Yuxing , Tian He , Lu Lu , Mazzarello Riccardo , Jia Chunlin , Zhang Wei , Rao Feng , Ma Evan
Published: August 2019

Getting more bits out of PCRAM

Phase-change random access memory (PCRAM) has the ability to both store and process information. It also suffers from noise and electrical drift due to damage that accumulates during the cycling process. Ding
et al.
developed a phase-change heterostructure where a phase-change material is separated by a confinement material, creating an alternating stack (see the Perspective by Gholipour). This architecture results in ultralow noise, lower drift, and stable multilevel storage capacity, which are potentially useful for new forms of computing.

Science
, this issue p.
210
; see also p.
186
Adeno-associated viral vector serotype 9–based gene therapy for Niemann-Pick disease type A
Authors: Samaranch Lluis , Pérez-Cañamás Azucena , Soto-Huelin Beatriz , Sudhakar Vivek , Jurado-Arjona Jerónimo , Hadaczek Piotr , Ávila Jesús , Bringas John R. , Casas Josefina , Chen Haifeng , He Xingxuan , Schuchman Edward H. , Cheng Seng H. , Forsayeth John , Bankiewicz Krystof S. , Ledesma María Dolores
Published: August 2019

Gene therapy for Niemann-Pick type A disease is safe in nonhuman primates and has therapeutic effects in a mouse model.
The autophagy-activating kinase ULK1 mediates clearance of free α-globin in β-thalassemia
Authors: Lechauve Christophe , Keith Julia , Khandros Eugene , Fowler Stephanie , Mayberry Kalin , Freiwan Abdullah , Thom Christopher S. , Delbini Paola , Romero Emilio Boada , Zhang Jingjing , Motta Irene , Tillman Heather , Cappellini M. Domenica , Kundu Mondira , Weiss Mitchell J.
Published: August 2019

Rapamycin alleviates β-thalassemia by stimulating ULK1-dependent clearance of toxic free α-globin.
Alternative rhythms in schizophrenia
Authors: Curtis Annie
Published: August 2019

A distinct set of rhythmically expressed genes related to mitochondrial function is identified in the brains of patients with schizophrenia.
A face-lift for reconstructive surgery
Authors: Han Li-Hsin
Published: August 2019

3D printing and digital modeling improve face transplantation for people affected by facial trauma unrepairable by traditional reconstructive surgery.
Whole-Genome Sequencing To Identify Drivers of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Transmission within and between Regional Long-Term Acute-Care Hospitals
Authors: Han Jennifer H. , Lapp Zena , Bushman Frederic , Lautenbach Ebbing , Goldstein Ellie J. C. , Mattei Lisa , Hofstaedter Casey E. , Kim Dorothy , Nachamkin Irving , Garrigan Charles , Jain Tanya , Bilker Warren , Wolford Hannah M. , Slayton Rachel B. , Wise Jacqueleen , Tolomeo Pam , Snitkin Evan S.
Published: August 2019

Carbapenem-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(CRKP) is an antibiotic resistance threat of the highest priority. Given the limited treatment options for this multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO), there is an urgent need for targeted strategies to prevent transmission.
Pregnant patient with acute abdominal pain and previous bariatric surgery
Authors: Leclercq Wouter KG , Uittenbogaart Martine , Niemarkt Hendrik J , van Laar Judith OEH
Published: August 2019

Pregnant women who previously had bariatric surgery may develop acute abdominal pain during pregnancy. Two patients, 38-year-old twin primigravida (gestational age of 24+6 weeks) and a 26-year-old woman (gestational age of 24+0 weeks), both of whom had laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery previously, developed abdominal pain. The patients both had diffuse abdominal pain in combination with normal blood tests and imaging. Patient B had undergone laparoscopy at another centre after 5 weeks of gestation for internal herniation. After referral to our multidisciplinary bariatric–obstetric–neonatal (MD-BON) team, diagnostic laparoscopy was advised as internal herniation was deemed possible. In both patients, internal herniation was indeed found in Petersen’s space and jejunal mesenteric defect, which was closed using laparoscopic surgery. Both women delivered healthy offspring afterwards. The presence of an MD-BON team allows for an increased awareness of potential long-term complications associated with earlier bariatric surgery in pregnancy.
Life-threatening bleeding due to persistent dabigatran effect in a patient with sepsis despite idarucizumab therapy and haemodialysis
Authors: Humphries Kathryn , Huggan Paul , Stiles Martin , Martynoga Robert
Published: August 2019

A 58-year-old man presented with necrotising fasciitis and septic shock requiring urgent surgical debridement. Idarucizumab was used preoperatively to reverse the effects of dabigatran, which he was taking for chronic atrial fibrillation. He developed multiorgan failure including an oliguric acute kidney injury and was given continuous venovenous haemodiafiltration. Adjunctive intravenous immunoglobulin therapy was used in addition to his antibiotic therapy for necrotising fasciitis. Significant clinical and laboratory coagulopathy continued for over 12 days with evidence of a persistent dabigatran effect. Here, we discuss the potential impact of the immunoglobulin therapy, the patient’s weight on the degree of redistribution of dabigatran seen and the oliguria in the context of an acute kidney injury on the apparent lack of the effectiveness of idarucizumab.
Bilateral acetabular fractures induced by an epileptic seizure in a paediatric patient: a unique case and its management
Authors: Mohamed Nusrat , Makaranka Stanislau , Cheema Kamalpreet , Harnett Paul
Published: August 2019

Bilateral acetabular fractures following epileptic seizures are a rare but known occurrence in adults, with an 18.5% mortality rate. These fractures occurring post epileptic seizures have not been previously documented in children. We report a case of a 13-year-old boy who presented to hospital via ambulance following two violent generalised tonic–clonic seizures in a postictal state, metabolically acidotic and a low haemoglobin. Acute abdomen was suspected and the patient underwent a CT scan which showed bilateral acetabular fractures with central dislocations of both femoral heads and free fluid in the abdomen. The patient underwent initial damage control intervention with insertion of bilateral distal femur skeletal traction. Definitive fixation of the acetabular fractures occurred 1 week later with an open reduction internal fixation with novel supra-pectineal plates using a Pfannenstiel incision. We use this report to increase awareness of significant pelvic injuries in paediatric patients post epileptic seizures.
Haemolytic anaemia after mitral valve repair due to recurrent mild to moderate mitral regurgitation
Authors: Björkenheim Anna , Cha Soon-Ok , Dioubanova Irina
Published: August 2019

A 52-year-old man underwent mitral valve repair for mitral regurgitation. Four months postoperatively, the patient developed dyspnoea, fatigue and dark urine. He presented to his primary care physician 6 months postoperatively, where an evaluation revealed anaemia and mild renal failure. The haemoglobinuria was misdiagnosed as gross haematuria and the patient consequently underwent several unnecessary invasive urological exams. A transthoracic echocardiogram showed a recurrent mitral regurgitation that was considered non-significant, before performing additional laboratory testing and a renewed echocardiogram. The above results showed evidence of haemolysis and a mild to moderate mitral regurgitation, although with a high velocity jet. The patient was diagnosed with haemolytic anaemia that necessitated blood transfusions and a reoperation with a mechanical valve, after which the patient made a full recovery. Importantly, it was mainly the velocity of the jet and not the severity of the mitral regurgitation that caused the mechanical trauma to red blood cells.
Impact of gender on the career development of female traditional Korean medicine doctors: a qualitative study
Authors: Chun Se Eun , Lee Ju Hyun , Lee Ju Eun , Lee Seung Min Kathy , Leem Jungtae , Kim Hyunho
Published: August 2019

Objective

This study aims to examine the impact of gender and expected gender roles on the career development of young female traditional Korean medicine (KM) doctors.

Design

We conducted semistructured interviews to examine the experiences of study subjects regarding early career choices, employment, job performance and career moves, as well as future career aspirations, from the perspective of gender. The transcription was analysed using the Strauss and Corbin constant comparative analysis method.

Setting

The interview was conducted at a quiet and comfortable place selected by the participants in South Korea.

Participants

Ten female KM doctors in their 30s participated in the study.

Results

This study reveals that, initially, the participating female KM doctors were unaware of their gender affecting career decisions. However, after graduation and during employment, female doctors experienced direct discrimination or gender segregation while selecting areas of treatment and specialty; they found that they were preferred to work in paediatrics and dermatology departments than in departments treating musculoskeletal health problems. Furthermore, after entering the workforce, female KM doctors found that their gender significantly affects patient–doctor relationships and life events, such as pregnancy and childbirth require temporary career breaks. In addition, female KM doctors assumed stereotypical gender roles both in the workplace and at home, as well as becoming the main nurturer of their children.

Conclusion

Gender and stereotyped gender roles affect the overall career planning, career moves and even patient–doctor relationships of female KM doctors. Female doctors were also more likely to experience specific gender roles in the workplace and at home, including both childbirth and childrearing.
Histone chaperone FACT complex mediates oxidative stress response to promote liver cancer progression
Authors: Shen Jialing , Chen Mengnuo , Lee Derek , Law Cheuk-Ting , Wei Lai , Tsang Felice Ho-Ching , Chin Don Wai-Ching , Cheng Carol Lai-Hung , Lee Joyce Man-Fong , Ng Irene Oi-Lin , Wong Carmen Chak-Lui , Wong Chun-Ming
Published: August 2019

Objective

Facilitates Chromatin Transcription (FACT) complex is a histone chaperone participating in DNA repair-related and transcription-related chromatin dynamics. In this study, we investigated its oncogenic functions, underlying mechanisms and therapeutic implications in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Design

We obtained HCC and its corresponding non-tumorous liver samples from 16 patients and identified FACT complex as the most upregulated histone chaperone by RNA-Seq. We further used CRISPR-based gene activation and knockout systems to demonstrate the functions of FACT complex in HCC growth and metastasis. Functional roles and mechanistic insights of FACT complex in oxidative stress response were investigated by ChIP assay, flow cytometry, gene expression assays and 4sU-DRB transcription elongation assay. Therapeutic effect of FACT complex inhibitor, Curaxin, was tested in both in vitro and in vivo models.

Results

We showed that FACT complex was remarkably upregulated in HCC and contributed to HCC progression. Importantly, we unprecedentedly revealed an indispensable role of FACT complex in NRF2-driven oxidative stress response. Oxidative stress prevented NRF2 and FACT complex from KEAP1-mediated protein ubiquitination and degradation. Stabilised NRF2 and FACT complex form a positive feedback loop; NRF2 transcriptionally activates the FACT complex, while FACT complex promotes the transcription elongation of NRF2 and its downstream antioxidant genes through facilitating rapid nucleosome disassembly for the passage of RNA polymerase. Therapeutically, Curaxin effectively suppressed HCC growth and sensitised HCC cell to sorafenib.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that FACT complex is essential for the expeditious HCC oxidative stress response and is a potential therapeutic target for HCC treatment.
Role of echocardiography in managing acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Dabbouseh Noura M , Patel Jayshil J , Bergl Paul Anthony
Published: August 2019

The role of echocardiography in acute pulmonary embolism (PE) remains incompletely defined. Echocardiography cannot reliably diagnose acute PE, and it does not improve prognostication of patients with low-risk acute PE who lack other clinical features of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. Echocardiography, however, may yield additional prognostic information in higher risk patients and can aid in distinguishing acute from chronic RV dysfunction. Specific echocardiographic markers of RV dysfunction have the potential to enhance prognostication beyond existing risk models. Until these markers are subjected to rigorous prospective studies, the therapeutic utility and economic value of echocardiography in acute PE are uncertain.
Pathology in Irish medical education
Authors: Humphreys Hilary , Stevens Niall , Leddin Desmond , Callagy Grace , Burke Louise , Watson R William , Toner Mary
Published: August 2019

Pathology is the study of disease and is an important component in medical education. However, with medical curriculum reform, its role and contribution to medical courses is under potential threat. We surveyed the status of pathology in all six Irish medical schools. Information was received from five direct undergraduate and four graduate entry programmes. Pathology was recognisable as a core subject in all but one of the medical schools, was generally taught in years two or three, and the greatest contact hours were for histopathology (44–102 hours). Lectures were the most common teaching modality, and all used single best or extended matching answer multiple-choice questions as part of assessments. Currently, pathology is very visible in Irish medical education but needs to remain relevant with the move to theme and case-based teaching. There is heavy reliance on lectures and on non-academic/full-time hospital staff to deliver teaching, which may not be sustainable.
De novo variants in SLC12A6 cause sporadic early-onset progressive sensorimotor neuropathy
Authors: Park Joohyun , Flores Bianca R , Scherer Katalin , Kuepper Hanna , Rossi Mari , Rupprich Katrin , Rautenberg Maren , Deininger Natalie , Weichselbaum Annette , Grimm Alexander , Sturm Marc , Grasshoff Ute , Delpire Eric , Haack Tobias B
Published: August 2019

Background

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder of the peripheral nervous system. Biallelic variants in SLC12A6 have been associated with autosomal-recessive hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy with agenesis of the corpus callosum (HMSN/ACC). We identified heterozygous de novo variants in SLC12A6 in three unrelated patients with intermediate CMT.

Methods

We evaluated the clinical reports and electrophysiological data of three patients carrying de novo variants in SLC12A6 identified by diagnostic trio exome sequencing. For functional characterisation of the identified variants, potassium influx of mutated KCC3 cotransporters was measured in Xenopus oocytes.

Results

We identified two different de novo missense changes (p.Arg207His and p.Tyr679Cys) in SLC12A6 in three unrelated individuals with early-onset progressive CMT. All presented with axonal/demyelinating sensorimotor neuropathy accompanied by spasticity in one patient. Cognition and brain MRI were normal. Modelling of the mutant KCC3 cotransporter in Xenopus oocytes showed a significant reduction in potassium influx for both changes.

Conclusion

Our findings expand the genotypic and phenotypic spectrum associated with SLC12A6 variants from autosomal-recessive HMSN/ACC to dominant-acting de novo variants causing a milder clinical presentation with early-onset neuropathy.