bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rail worker fatigue: Identification, management and countermeasures
Authors: Young Mark S , Steel Tabitha
Published: November 2017

On a 24/7 railway, managing the risks of operator fatigue is crucial for maintaining the reliability and safety of the system. Whilst there is a substantial body of scientific literature covering the causes and effects of fatigue, a recent accident investigation report exposed gaps in our applied knowledge regarding barriers to reporting fatigue, and the problems of monitoring and mitigating the risk arising from fatigue. This paper responds to that call by reviewing literature and practices regarding fatigue management in rail and other safety-critical industries, before focusing on potential solutions for assessing, monitoring and counteracting fatigue both before and during a shift. The authors conclude by identifying areas for future work in this field.
The Integrated Workload Scale – Translation and validation of a subjective workload scale
Authors: Kramer Robin , Johnson Addie , Zeilstra Melcher P
Published: November 2017

The Integrated Workload Scale (IWS) is a scale for the assessment of subjective workload in real-time that was specifically designed for use with train traffic controllers. The IWS has nine anchor points that describe the degree of workload – ranging from ‘not demanding’ to ‘work too demanding’ – and captures the multi-dimensionality of workload by incorporating items that reflect time, demand and effort. In this paper, we describe how we translated the IWS into Dutch and subsequently validated the translation by having English-language students, Dutch students and Dutch train traffic controllers rate the individual items of the IWS according to the amount of workload each item conveyed, on a scale ranging from 0 (‘no workload at all’) to 150 (‘complete overload’). A comparison between the ratings of the English and Dutch items showed no significant differences, suggesting that the English and Dutch versions of the IWS are perceived similarly. Moreover, a comparison between the Dutch students and train traffic controllers also showed no apparent differences in the items' ratings. Regression analyses showed a strong linear component reflecting that the items were roughly equidistant on the rating scale. In a final analysis, alternate translations were tested as possible substitutes for some of the original items, but were not considered to substantially improve the scale. In sum, the similarity of the Dutch IWS to the original IWS, as well as the fact that train traffic controllers and students gave similar ratings on the Dutch IWS, suggest that it is a robust and reliable tool for subjective workload assessment across different populations and that it can be reliably translated to other languages.
Experiment study of the winglet-cavity tip on the aerodynamic performance in a turbine cascade
Authors: Chen Shaowen , Zhou Zhihua , Meng Qinghe , Wang Songtao , Zhou Xun
Published: November 2017

The effects of a novel winglet-cavity tip on the flow field and aerodynamic performance of a turbine blade with tip clearance have been investigated in a low-speed wind tunnel. A calibrated five-hole probe is used for the measurement of three-dimensional flows downstream of the cascade. The method of oil-flow visualization is used to show the endwall flow field structure. The distribution of endwall static pressure is measured particularly by using the special moveable endwall. The downstream results show that, compared with the flat tip and cavity tip, the winglet-cavity tip reduces aerodynamic loss in the region of tip leakage vortex and passage vortex effectively and gives a 8.5% reduction of total pressure losses at a tip clearance of τ/ H = 1.0%. Meanwhile, a more uniform flow angle is obtained with the winglet-cavity tip. Thus, the winglet-cavity tip provides better aerodynamic performance. It was found that more endwall flow enters the cavity from the front of suction side gap, combines with the flow entering the tip from the pressure side, and then separates upon the cavity. This reduces the loss of passage vortex. The endwall static pressure indicates that the winglet-cavity tip reduces the driving pressure difference and weakens the tip leakage flow. With the tip clearance increasing, the leakage flow is significantly enhanced. This strengthens the interaction between the tip leakage vortex and the passage vortex. With respect to the flat tip and cavity tip, the winglet-cavity tip obtains the lowest total pressure loss at all tested tip clearances.
Manipulative use of risk as a stance in political communication
Authors: Ushchyna Valentyna
Published: November 2017

As in many other areas of life, the notion of risk has recently become central to discourses related to politics. This research article shows how political and media representatives use the notion of risk in their rhetoric, making it an important part of and a powerful resource for manipulation. It is demonstrated how stances taken by speakers on different political issues reflect their social, political and moral views, showing that risk has become a common construct around which a political situation in the modern world is described, organized and practiced. In most general terms, stance is understood here as the way of expressing one’s viewpoint concerning the object of interaction, which in this study is risk. The theoretical background of the research is situated within socially constructivist approaches to discourse analysis. We argue that risk has become one of the defining social and cultural characteristics of modern society. The research focuses on the ways stances on risks are constructed at the linguistic level by means of certain structural and formal qualities, and on how these linguistic features are related to social interaction under the conditions of political, moral, economic and social crisis in Ukraine.
Precise position control of shape memory alloy–actuated continuum modules through fuzzy algorithm
Authors: Hadi Alireza , Akbari Hossein , Alipour Khalil , Tarvirdizadeh Bahram
Published: November 2017

Development of a fuzzy precise controller for the continuum modules utilizing shape memory alloy actuators is the main focus of this study. To this end, two continuum and flexible shape memory alloy–actuated modules, containing shape memory alloy wires or shape memory alloy springs, are considered as the testbed of the control problem to be tackled. The fuzzy controllers in this application are developed using two strategies in this research. In the first technique, the position errors of the two motion variables of the system are considered in the controller design process. The resulted controller is referred as “error-based fuzzy controller.” In the second technique, which is called as “improved fuzzy controller,” the parameters of the desired configuration of the system, in addition to their errors, are considered in controller design process. This procedure makes it possible to overcome the error-based fuzzy controller drawbacks. In order to validate the simulation results, experimental tests are conducted. Both simulation and experimental results reveal the performance of the developed novel two-stage improved fuzzy controller against error-based fuzzy controller and traditional proportional–integral–derivative controller.
Simultaneous Transplantation of Fetal Ventral Mesencephalic Tissue and Encapsulated Genetically Modified Cells Releasing GDNF in a Hemi-Parkinsonian Rat Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Perez-Bouza Alberto , Di Santo Stefano , Seiler Stefanie , Meyer Morten , Andereggen Lukas , Huber Alexander , Guzman Raphael , Widmer Hans R.
Published: November 2017

Transplantation of fetal ventral mesencephalic (VM) neurons for Parkinson’s disease (PD) is limited by poor survival and suboptimal integration of grafted tissue into the host brain. In a 6-hydroxydopamine rat model of PD, we investigated the feasibility of simultaneous transplantation of rat fetal VM tissue and polymer-encapsulated C2C12 myoblasts genetically modified to produce glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) or mock-transfected myoblasts on graft function. Amphetamine-induced rotations were assessed prior to transplantation and 2, 4, 6 and 9 wk posttransplantation. We found that rats grafted with VM transplants and GDNF capsules showed a significant functional recovery 4 wk after implantation. In contrast, rats from the VM transplant and mock-capsule group did not improve at any time point analyzed. Moreover, we detected a significantly higher number of tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactive (TH-ir) cells per graft (2-fold), a tendency for a larger graft volume and an overall higher TH-ir fiber outgrowth into the host brain (1.7-fold) in the group with VM transplants and GDNF capsules as compared to the VM transplant and mock-capsule group. Most prominent was the TH-ir fiber outgrowth toward the capsule (9-fold). Grafting of GDNF-pretreated VM transplants in combination with the implantation of GDNF capsules resulted in a tendency for a higher TH-ir fiber outgrowth into the host brain (1.7-fold) as compared to the group transplanted with untreated VM transplants and GDNF capsules. No differences between groups were observed for the number of surviving TH-ir neurons or graft volume. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that simultaneous transplantation of fetal VM tissue and encapsulated GDNF-releasing cells is feasible and support the graft survival and function. Pretreatment of donor tissue with GDNF may offer a way to further improve cell transplantation approaches for PD.
Impact of Age on Human Adipose Stem Cells for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Dufrane Denis
Published: November 2017

Bone nonunion is a pathological condition in which all bone healing processes have stopped, resulting in abnormal mobility between 2 bone segments. The incidence of bone-related injuries will increase in an aging population, leading to such injuries reaching epidemic proportions. Tissue engineering and cell therapy using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have raised the possibility of implanting living tissue for bone reconstruction. Bone marrow was first proposed as the source of stem cells for bone regeneration. However, as the quantity of MSCs in the bone marrow decreases, the capacity of osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow stem cells is also impaired by the donor’s age in terms of reduced MSC replicative capacity; an increased number of apoptotic cells; formation of colonies positive for alkaline phosphatase; and decreases in the availability, growth potential, and temporal mobilization of MSCs for bone formation in case of fracture. Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) demonstrate several advantages over those from bone marrow, including a less invasive harvesting procedure, a higher number of stem cell progenitors from an equivalent amount of tissue harvested, increased proliferation and differentiation capacities, and better angiogenic and osteogenic properties in vivo. Subcutaneous native adipose tissue was not affected by the donor’s age in terms of cellular senescence and yield of ASC isolation. In addition, a constant mRNA level of osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase with a similar level of matrix mineralization of ASCs remained unaffected by donor age after osteogenic differentiation. The secretome of ASCs was also unaffected by age when aiming to promote angiogenesis by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) release in hypoxic conditions. Therefore, the use of adipose cells for bone tissue engineering is not limited by the donor’s age from the isolation of stem cells up to the manufacturing of a complex osteogenic graft.
Improving Neurorepair in Stroke Brain Through Endogenous Neurogenesis-Enhancing Drugs
Authors: Wu Kuo-Jen , Yu Seongjin , Lee Jea-Young , Hoffer Barry , Wang Yun
Published: November 2017

Stroke induces not only cell death but also neurorepair. De novo neurogenesis has been found in the subventricular zone of the adult mammalian brain days after stroke. Most of these newly generated cells die shortly after the insult. Recent studies have shown that pharmacological manipulation can improve the survival of endogenous neuroprogenitor cells and neural regeneration in stroke rats. As these drugs target the endogenous reparative processes that occur days after stroke, they may provide a prolonged window for stroke therapy. Here, we discuss endogenous neurogenesis-enhancing drugs and review the general status of stroke therapeutics in evaluating the field of pharmacotherapy for stroke.
Porcine Neural Progenitor Cells Derived from Tissue at Different Gestational Ages Can Be Distinguished by Global Transcriptome
Authors: Yang Jing , Menges Steven , Gu Ping , Tongbai Ronald , Samuel Melissa , Prather Randall S. , Klassen Henry
Published: November 2017

The impact of gestational age on mammalian neural progenitor cells is potentially important for both an understanding of neural development and the selection of donor cells for novel cell-based treatment strategies. In terms of the latter, it can be problematic to rely entirely on rodent models in which the gestational period is significantly shorter and the brain much smaller than is the case in humans. Here, we analyzed pig brain progenitor cells (pBPCs) harvested at 2 different gestational ages (E45 and E60) using gene expression profiles, obtained by microarray analysis and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), across time in culture. Comparison of the global transcriptome of pBPCs from age-matched transgenic green flourescent protein (GFP)-expressing fetuses versus non- GFP-expressing fetuses did not reveal significant differences between the 2 cell types, whereas comparison between E45 and E60 pBPCs did show separation between the data sets by principle component analysis. Further examination by qPCR showed evidence of relative downregulation of proliferation markers and upregulation of glial markers in the gestationally older (E60) cells. Additional comparisons were made. This study provides evidence of age-related changes in the gene expression of cultured fetal porcine neural progenitors that are potentially relevant to the role of these cells during development and as donor cells for transplantation studies.
Oxidative Stress in Stem Cell Aging
Authors: Chen Feng , Liu Yingxia , Wong Nai-Kei , Xiao Jia , So Kwok-Fai
Published: November 2017

Stem cell aging is a process in which stem cells progressively lose their ability to self-renew or differentiate, succumb to senescence or apoptosis, and eventually become functionally depleted. Unresolved oxidative stress and concomitant oxidative damages of cellular macromolecules including nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates have been recognized to contribute to stem cell aging. Excessive production of reactive oxygen species and insufficient cellular antioxidant reserves compromise cell repair and metabolic homeostasis, which serves as a mechanistic switch for a variety of aging-related pathways. Understanding the molecular trigger, regulation, and outcomes of those signaling networks is critical for developing novel therapies for aging-related diseases by targeting stem cell aging. Here we explore the key features of stem cell aging biology, with an emphasis on the roles of oxidative stress in the aging process at the molecular level. As a concept of cytoprotection of stem cells in transplantation, we also discuss how systematic enhancement of endogenous antioxidant capacity before or during graft into tissues can potentially raise the efficacy of clinical therapy. Finally, future directions for elucidating the control of oxidative stress and developing preventive/curative strategies against stem cell aging are discussed.
State Authenticity
Authors: Sedikides Constantine , Slabu Letitia , Lenton Alison , Thomaes Sander
Published: November 2017

State authenticity is the sense that one is currently in alignment with one’s true or real self. We discuss state authenticity as seen by independent raters, describe its phenomenology, outline its triggers, consider its well-being and behavioral implications, and sketch out a cross-disciplinary research agenda.
Effects of Rural Infrastructure on Agricultural Development
Authors: Manjunath Soumya , Kannan Elumalai
Published: November 2017

The present study analysed the effect of rural infrastructure on agricultural development in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. The study used district-level data for 30 years period and employed infrastructure availability and utilisation framework to examine the relationship between the rural infrastructure and agricultural development. The regression analysis showed that infrastructure availability index and infrastructure utilisation index had positive and significant effect on agricultural productivity growth. The effect of infrastructure utilisation on productivity growth seemed to be higher than that of infrastructure availability. Further, the combined effect of availability and utilisation of infrastructure had larger effect on agricultural productivity. The analysis of spatial convergence of agricultural productivity growth showed that districts converge in land productivity over time.
Predictive Capacity and Cutoff Value of Waist-to-Height Ratio in the Incidence of Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Romero-Saldaña Manuel , Fuentes-Jiménez Francisco J. , Vaquero-Abellán Manuel , Álvarez-Fernández Carlos , Aguilera-López María Dolores , Molina-Recio Guillermo
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this study was to compare the predictive ability of waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) compared with other anthropometric indicators in the incidence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and to propose cutoff values for its early detection in nursing practice. A longitudinal cohort study was conducted on a sample of 630 workers (137 exposed and 493 nonexposed), free of MetS at baseline. WHtR was compared with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and the percentage of body fat (BF%). In the Cox regression, the adjusted values of hazard ratio (HR) were 5.4 (confidence interval [CI] = [3.1, 9.5]) for WHtR and 7.4 (CI = [3.7, 14.9]) for components of MetS. WHtR obtained the largest area under the curve 0.82 (CI = [0.76, 0.88]), and with a cutoff value of 0.54, values were obtained for sensitivity (70%) and specificity (77%). WHtR was the best predictor of incidence of MetS, with a cutoff value of 0.54. Nursing can improve the early detection of MetS by measuring WHtR.
Classroom Practices and Academic Outcomes in Urban Afterschool Programs: Alleviating Social-Behavioral Risk
Authors: Cappella Elise , Hwang Sophia H. J. , Kieffer Michael J. , Yates Miranda
Published: November 2017

Given the potential of afterschool programs to support youth in urban, low-income communities, we examined the role of afterschool classroom ecology in the academic outcomes of Latino and African American youth with and without social-behavioral risk. Using multireporter methods and multilevel analysis, we find that positive classroom ecology (i.e., social dynamics, responsive instruction, and organized management) positively predicted academic skills and self-concept across 1 year. For academic skills, the association was magnified for students with social-behavioral difficulties; for academic self-concept, the association was magnified for students without social-behavioral difficulties. No significant relation was found between fall classroom ecology and spring academic engagement; yet in classrooms with more positive ecology, youth with initial social-behavioral risk were more academically engaged. Results suggest the need to consider the role of afterschool classrooms and instructors in promoting supportive interactions and advancing academic outcomes for youth facing distal and proximal risk at the transition to adolescence.
The Autocrat’s Advisors: Opening the Black Box of Ruling Coalitions in Tunisia’s Authoritarian Regime
Authors: Buehler Matt , Ayari Mehdi
Published: November 2017

Why do autocrats retain some elites as core, long-term members of their ruling coalitions for years, while others are dismissed in months? How and why might the type of elites retained within coalitions vary across time and different autocrats? Although what constitutes an authoritarian regime’s ruling coalition varies across countries, often including the military and dominant parties, this article focuses on one critical subcomponent of it—an autocrat’s cabinet and his elite advisors within it, his ministers. Because coalitions function opaquely to prevent coups, scholars consider their inner-workings a black box. We shed light through an original, exhaustive dataset from the Middle East of all 212 ministers who advised Tunisian autocrats from independence until regime collapse (1956–2011). Extracting data from Arabic sources in Tunisian national archives, we track variation in minister retention to identify which elites autocrats made core, long-term advisors within ruling coalitions. Whereas Tunisia’s first autocrat retained elites as ministers due to biographical similarities, capacity to represent influential social groups, and competence, its second autocrat did not. He became more likely to dismiss types of elites retained under the first autocrat, purging his coalition of ministers perceived to be potential insider-threats due to their favored status under his predecessor.
Metagoverning Aquaculture Standards: A Comparison of the GSSI, the ASEAN GAP, and the ISEAL
Authors: Samerwong Phatra , Bush Simon R. , Oosterveer Peter
Published: November 2017

The presence of multiple eco-certification standards for sustainable aquaculture is thought to create confusion and add cost for producers and consumers alike. To ensure their quality and consistency, a range of so-called metagovernance arrangements have emerged that seek to provide harmonized quality assurance over these standards. This article aims to answer the question of how these metagovernance arrangements differ and whether they actually reduce confusion, with a focus on aquaculture in Southeast Asia. We compare three metagovernance arrangements, the Global Sustainable Seafood Initiative, the International Social and Environmental Accreditation and Labelling Alliance, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Good Aquaculture Practices, with respect to differences in their goals, their levels of inclusiveness, and their internal governance arrangement. The findings indicate that these metagovernance arrangements differ with respect to their goals and approaches and do not seem to directly reduce confusion. More critically, they represent a new arena for competition among market, state, and civil society actors in controlling the means of regulation when aiming for more sustainable aquaculture production.
Frames of reference in multibody dynamics
Authors: Lidström Per
Published: November 2017

In this paper, a discussion is undertaken concerning the use of so-called floating frames of reference in the calculation of the kinetic and elastic energies of parts in a multibody system. The use of floating frames may simplify the calculation of the elastic energy, although sometimes at the expense of more elaborate expressions for the kinetic energy. These expressions may involve terms that couple the motion of the floating frame and the relative motion of the part. The choice of a floating frame may be arbitrary but in order to obtain as simple expressions as possible some care must be taken. When a (flexible) part is connected to a rigid part one may use a frame in which the rigid part is at rest. If so then one has, in general, to deal with coupling terms in the kinetic energy for the flexible part. There is one unique frame in which these coupling terms disappear. This frame is called the principal frame of reference. Relative to this frame the kinetic energy of the part is minimal compared to the kinetic energy relative to other frames. Two independent proofs of this property are presented. The principal frame is defined by the associated change of frame mapping. This mapping is given a full characterization. It may however be cumbersome to calculate the kinetic energy relative to the principal frame. A method for doing this is designated. A frame that has been given some attention in the literature is the principal axis frame of reference. In this paper, a full characterization of this frame and its relation to the principal frame is given. Two examples of an Euler–Bernoulli beam in rotational motion are presented and compared in the light of the theoretical findings of this paper. In conventional presentations of mechanics the Euclidean spaces associated with different frames of reference are taken to be identical. In this paper this assumption is abandoned and different frames of reference will correspond to different Euclidean spaces. From a conceptual point of view this is a natural step to take in order to increase clarity and generality. It automatically includes the dependence of the reference placement on the frame of reference. This approach has been analyzed in a previous paper by the present author. References to this paper will appear whenever needed for. Consequences of this approach are investigated in terms of transformation formulas for kinematical and dynamical quantities.
Evaluation of Tissue Metabolites with High Resolution Magic Angle Spinning MR Spectroscopy Human Prostate Samples after Three-Year Storage at –80 °C
Authors: Jordan Kate W. , He Wenlei , Halpern Elkan F. , Wu Chin-Lee , Cheng Leo L.
Published: November 2017

Accurate interpretation and correlation of tissue spectroscopy with pathological conditions requires disease-specific tissue metabolite databases; however, specimens for research are often kept in frozen storage for various lengths of time. Whether such frozen storage results in alterations to the measured metabolites is a critical but largely unknown issue. In this study, human prostate tissues from specimens that had been stored at –80 °C for 32 months were analyzed with high resolution magic angle spinning (HRMAS) magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy, and compared with the initial measurements of the adjacent specimens from the same cases when snap frozen in the operation room and kept frozen for less than 24 hours. Results of the current study indicate that that the storage-induced metabolite alterations are below the limits that tissue MR spectroscopy can discriminate. Furthermore, quantitative pathology evaluations suggest the observed alterations in metabolite profiles measured from the adjacent specimens of the same prostates may be accounted for by tissue pathological heterogeneities and are not a result of storage conditions. Hence, these results indicate that long-term frozen storage of prostate specimens can be quantitatively analyzed by HRMAS MR spectroscopy without concerns regarding significant metabolic degradation or alteration.
Leukemia Associated Antigens: Their Dual Role as Biomarkers and Immunotherapeutic Targets for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Guinn Barbara-ann , Mohamedali Azim , Mills Ken I. , Czepulkowski Barbara , Schmitt Michael , Greiner Jochen
Published: November 2017

Leukemia associated antigens (LAAs) are being increasingly identified by methods such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) cloning, serological analysis of recombinant cDNA expression libraries (SEREX) and mass spectrometry (MS). In additional, large scale screening techniques such as microarray, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE) and 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) have expanded our understanding of the role that tumor antigens play in the biological processes which are perturbed in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). It has become increasingly apparent that these antigens play a dual role, not only as targets for immunotherapy, but also as biomarkers of disease state, stage, response to treatment and survival. We need biomarkers to enable the identification of the patients who are most likely to benefit from specific treatments (conventional and/or novel) and to help clinicians and scientists improve clinical end points and treatment design. Here we describe the LAAs identified in AML, to date, which have already been shown to play a dual role as biomarkers of AML disease.
Evaluation of Cellular Fibronectin Plasma Levels as a Useful Staging Tool in Different Stages of Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder and Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Hegele A. , Hofmann R. , Kosche B. , Kropf J.
Published: November 2017

Reliable markers for both renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder (TCC) are lacking.

During tumor progression and invasion components of extracellular matrix (ECM) are degraded and parts of these different components are detectable in plasma. Cellular fibronectin (cFN) represents a well characterized ECM protein. In contrast to fibronectin in plasma produced by hepatocytes (FN) cFN has a total extra domain sequence and occurs in much smaller amounts in the circulation. The aim of our study was to evaluate cFN as a marker and to determine its possible role in clinical staging of TCC and RCC.

Blood samples were collected from 30 patients before they underwent transurethral resection of the bladder because of newly diagnosed TCC. Additionally samples were collected from 69 patients with RCC before therapy. Sixty patients with non-malignant urological disorders were recruited as control group. Determination of cFN in plasma was performed by using a highly sensitive time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay (TRFIA).

The control group had median cFN plasma levels of 437 ng/ml. Patients suffering from TCC or RCC showed significantly higher cFN levels. In patients with muscle invasive TCC significant higher cFN levels (p < 0.05) could be demonstrated compared to non-muscle invasive TCC. Similar results were found in RCC with significant elevated cFN levels in metastatic RCC (p < 0.005) compared to localized stage of disease. No differences were found concerning tumor grading in both malignancies.

In the face of significant elevated cFN levels in TCC and RCC our data underline the important role of cFN. For future investigations the elevated cFN levels in locally progressed and metastastic disease, indicating a clinically useful tool for preoperative staging and postoperative monitoring, are of high interest.
Genetic Alterations in Pesticide Exposed Bolivian Farmers An evaluation by analysis of chromosomal aberrations and the comet assay
Authors: Jørs Erik , Gonzáles Ana Rosa , Ascarrunz Maria Eugenia , Tirado Noemi , Takahashi Catharina , Lafuente Erika , Santos Raquel A Dos , Bailon Natalia , Cervantes Rafael , Huici O , Bælum Jesper , Lander Flemming
Published: November 2017

Background

Pesticides are of concern in Bolivia because of increasing use. Frequent intoxications have been demonstrated due to use of very toxic pesticides, insufficient control of distribution and sale and little knowledge among farmers of protective measures and hygienic procedures.

Method

Questionnaires were applied and blood tests taken from 81 volunteers from La Paz County, of whom 48 were pesticide exposed farmers and 33 non-exposed controls. Sixty males and 21 females participated with a mean age of 37.3 years (range 17–76). Data of exposure and possible genetic damage were collected and evaluated by well known statistical methods, controlling for relevant confounders. To measure genetic damage chromosomal aberrations and the comet assay analysis were performed.

Results

Pesticide exposed farmers had a higher degree of genetic damage compared to the control group. The number of chromosomal aberrations increased with the intensity of pesticide exposure. Females had a lower number of chromosomal aberrations than males, and people living at altitudes above 2500 metres seemed to exhibit more DNA damage measured by the comet assay.

Conclusions

Bolivian farmers showed signs of genotoxic damage, probably related to exposure to pesticides. Due to the potentially negative long term health effects of genetic damage on reproduction and the development of cancer, preventive measures are recommended. Effective control with imports and sales, banning of the most toxic pesticides, education and information are possible measures, which could help preventing the negative effects of pesticides on human health and the environment.
Changes in Hyaluronan Metabolism and RHAMM Receptor Expression Accompany Formation of Complicated Carotid Lesions and May be Pro-Angiogenic Mediators of Intimal Neovessel Growth
Authors: Krupinski Jerzy , Ethirajan Priya , Font M. Angels , Turu Marta Miguel , Gaffney John , Kumar Pat , Slevin Mark
Published: November 2017

Previous studies have shown that changes in expression of the glycosaminoglycan, hyaluronan (HA) were associated with erosion in areas of post-mortem coronary artery liable to rupture. Angiogenesis is an important feature of ulcerating haemorrhagic plaques prone to rupture. HA is a glycosaminoglycan known to possess potent angiogenic properties on metabolism to oligosaccharides of HA (o-HA) in the presence of hyaluronidase (HYAL) enzymes. In this study we have examined HA receptor and HYAL enzyme expression in a series of carotid artery specimens used as vascular transplants and exhibiting various stages of atherosclerotic lesions as determined by anatomo-pathology. Our results demonstrated dramatically increased expression of HYAL-1 in regions of inflammation associated with complicated plaques. Receptor for HA-mediated motility (RHAMM), which is known to be important in transducing angiogenic signals in vascular endothelium, was strongly expressed on intimal blood vessels from complicated lesions but almost absent from other regions including adventitial vessels. Metabolism of HA, together with up-regulation of RHAMM in complicated plaque lesions might be partly responsible for over-production of leaky neovessels and predisposition to plaque rupture.
Studies of Wilms’ Tumor (WT1) Gene Expression in Adult Acute Leukemias in Singapore
Authors: Lim Che Kang , Goh Yeow Tee , Hwang William Y. K. , Ho Liam Pock , Sun Li
Published: November 2017

Biomarkers provide certain values for diagnosis, monitor treatment efficacy, or for the development of novel therapeutic approach for particular diseases. Thus, the identification of specific of biomarkers for specific medical problems, including malignant diseases may be valuable in medical practice. In the study, we have used the Wilms’ tumor gene ( WT1) as a biomarker to evaluate its expression in local adult patients with newly diagnosed acute leukemia, including both acute myeloid and lymphoid leukemias (AML and ALL).

Aim

To investigate WT1 gene expression in adult patients with acute leukemia at diagnosis.

Methods

Eighteen patients with acute leukemia diagnosed at Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, between September, 2004 and July, 2005 were included in this study. There were fifteen AML and three ALL cases aged from 18 to 71 years old. Total RNA and DNA was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Expression of WT1 was detected by nested reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (Nested RT-PCR). K562, and 3T3 cells were used as positive- and negative-controls. The results were revalidated using real-time PCR. HLA-A genotyping was performed using sequence specific oligonucleotide polymorphism (SSOP) analysis.

Results

WT1 gene was exclusively expressed in all eighteen, including three ALL and fifteen AML, patients. In contrast with WT1 gene, the HLA-A genotyping was remarkably heterogeneous in these patients.

Conclusions

WT1 gene expression was observed in local patients with acute leukemia at diagnosis. It may be used as a potential molecular marker for diagnosis, clinical progression of the diseases or monitoring the response to treatment, as well as a target for the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
Increased Intrathecal Chemokine Receptor CCR2 Expression in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Nakajima Hideto , Sugino Masakazu , Kimura Fumiharu , Hanafusa Toshiaki , Ikemoto Toshiyuki , Shimizu Akira
Published: November 2017

Expression of CCR2, CXCR3 and CCR4 on CD4+T or CD8+T cells in blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for multiple sclerosis (MS) was measured by 3-color flow cytometry, and compared to blood from healthy controls and CSF from patients with other inflammatory neurological diseases (INDs). CD4+CXCR3+/CD4+CCR4+ratio (representing Th1/Th2 balance) was higher in both CSF and blood of MS patients than those of IND patients or healthy controls. Percentage of CCR2-positive T cells was significantly higher in CSF from MS patients. Increased CCR2 expression on T cells in CSF and Th1/Th2 imbalance may reflect the pathological processes involved in MS.
Negative Regulation of Receptor Tyrosine Kinase (RTK) Signaling: A Developing Field
Authors: Ledda Fernanda , Paratcha Gustavo
Published: November 2017

Trophic factors control cellular physiology by activating specific receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). While the over activation of RTK signaling pathways is associated with cell growth and cancer, recent findings support the concept that impaired down-regulation or deactivation of RTKs may also be a mechanism involved in tumor formation. Under this perspective, the molecular determinants of RTK signaling inhibition may act as tumor-suppressor genes and have a potential role as tumor markers to monitor and predict disease progression. Here, we review the current understanding of the physiological mechanisms that attenuate RTK signaling and discuss evidence that implicates deregulation of these events in cancer.
Clinical Significance of Telomere Length and Associated Proteins in Oral Cancer
Authors: Sainger Rachana N. , Telang Shaila D. , Shukla Shilin N. , Patel Prabhudas S.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Telomere shortening is an important event during carcinogenesis. Although studies suggest role of multiple proteins in telomere length regulation, there is dearth of reports in oral cancer which is a leading malignancy in Asian countries especially in India. Thus the present study was carried out to study these mechanisms and explore the pathways involved in telomere—telomerase regulation and identify possible prognostic markers to understand the biology of oral tumors for better treatment approaches.

Methods

Telomere length was determined by Southern Hybridisation method, telomeric repeat binding factor (TRF) 1 and 2 expression was detected by Western blot method and telomerase activation by telomeric repeat amplification protocol. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS (Version 10) software.

Results

Significant shortening of telomeres was seen in the tumor tissues as compared to normal tissues. Poor prognosis was observed in the patients with higher telomere length in malignant tissue, higher tumor to normal telomere length ratio (T/N TRF LR). Expression of TRF-2 but not TRF-1 protein was significantly higher in the malignant tissues. We also observed telomerase activation in 75 malignant tissues.

Conclusions

Our results reveal significant clinical usefulness of telomere length, T/N TRF LR and telomerase activation in the prognosis of oral cancer patients. TRF-2 overexpression in malignant tissues appears to play an important role in telomere length shortening in oral cancer.
Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Gamma (PTPγ) is a Novel Leukocyte Marker Highly Expressed by CD34+Precursors
Authors: Mafficini Andrea , Vezzalini Marzia , Zamai Loris , Galeotti Laura , Bergamini Gabriella , Peruta Marco Della , Melotti Paola , Sorio Claudio
Published: November 2017

Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase gamma (PTPγ) is a receptor-like transmembrane protein belonging to the family of classical protein tyrosine phosphatases. PTPγ is known to regulate haematopoietic differentiation in a murine embryonic stem cells model. We have recently demonstrated that PTPγ mRNA is expressed in monocytes, tissue-localized myeloid dendritic cells and in both myeloid and plasmacytoid dendritic cells in peripheral blood. We now developed a PTPγ specific antibody that recognizes the protein by flow cytometry. PTPγ expression was detected in monocytes and both myeloid and plasmacytoid dendritic cells, while PMN showed a low but consistent staining in contrast with previous mRNA data. B cells were found to express the phosphatase while T cells were negative. In keeping with RNA data, PTPγ was detected in monocyte-derived dendritic cells and its expression rose upon LPS stimulation. Finally, we discovered that CD34+haematopoietic precursors express high PTPγ level that drops during in vitro expansion induced by IL-3 and SCF growth factors. We therefore propose PTPγ as a new functionally regulated leukocyte marker whose role in normal and pathological context deserve further investigation.
Biomarker Discovery in Animal Health and Disease: The Application of Post-Genomic Technologies
Authors: Moore Rowan E. , Kirwan Jennifer , Doherty Mary K. , Whitfield Phillip D.
Published: November 2017

The causes of many important diseases in animals are complex and multifactorial, which present unique challenges. Biomarkers indicate the presence or extent of a biological process, which is directly linked to the clinical manifestations and outcome of a particular disease. Identifying biomarkers or biomarker profiles will be an important step towards disease characterization and management of disease in animals. The emergence of post-genomic technologies has led to the development of strategies aimed at identifying specific and sensitive biomarkers from the thousands of molecules present in a tissue or biological fluid. This review will summarize the current developments in biomarker discovery and will focus on the role of transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics in biomarker discovery for animal health and disease.
Biomarkers and Bioassays for Cardiovascular Diseases: Present and Future
Authors: Sim Derek S. , Lieu Hsiao , Andre Patrick
Published: November 2017

Stratification of cardiac patients arriving at the emergency department is now being made according to the levels of acute cardiac biomarkers (i.e. cardiac troponin (cTn) or creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB)). Ongoing efforts are undertaken in an attempt to identify and validate additional cardiac biomarkers, for example, interleukin-6, soluble CD40L, and C-reactive protein, in order to further risk stratify patients with acute coronary syndrome. Several studies have also now shown an association of platelet transcriptome and genomic single nucleotide polymorphisms with myocardial infarction by using advanced genomic tools. A number of markers, such as myeloid-related protein 14 (MRP-14), cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), 5-lipoxygenase activating protein (FLAP), leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H) and myocyte enhancing factor 2A (MEF2A), have been linked to acute coronary syndromes, including myocardial infarction. In the future, these novel markers may pave the way toward personalized disease-prevention programs based on a person's genomic, thrombotic and cardiovascular profiles. Current and future biomarkers and bioassays for identifying at-risk patients will be discussed in this review.
Effects of an individual 12-week community-located “start-to-run” program on physical capacity, walking, fatigue, cognitive function, brain volumes, and structures in persons with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Feys Peter , Moumdjian Lousin , Van Halewyck Florian , Wens Inez , Eijnde Bert O , Van Wijmeersch Bart , Popescu Veronica , Van Asch Paul
Published: November 2017

Background:

Exercise therapy studies in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) primarily focused on motor outcomes in mid disease stage, while cognitive function and neural correlates were only limitedly addressed.

Objectives:

This pragmatic randomized controlled study investigated the effects of a remotely supervised community-located “start-to-run” program on physical and cognitive function, fatigue, quality of life, brain volume, and connectivity.

Method:

In all, 42 pwMS were randomized to either experimental (EXP) or waiting list control (WLC) group. The EXP group received individualized training instructions during 12 weeks (3×/week), to be performed in their community aiming to participate in a running event. Measures were physical (VO2max, sit-to-stand test, Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale-12 (MSWS-12)) and cognitive function (Rao’s Brief Repeatable Battery (BRB), Paced Auditory Serial Attention Test (PASAT)), fatigue (Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Function (FSMC)), quality of life (Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale-29 (MSIS-29)), and imaging. Brain volumes and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) were quantified using FSL-SIENA/FIRST and FSL-TBSS.

Results:

In all, 35 pwMS completed the trial. Interaction effects in favor of the EXP group were found for VO2max, sit-to-stand test, MSWS-12, Spatial Recall Test, FSMC, MSIS-29, and pallidum volume. VO2max improved by 1.5 mL/kg/min, MSWS-12 by 4, FSMC by 11, and MSIS-29 by 14 points. The Spatial Recall Test improved by more than 10%.

Conclusion:

Community-located run training improved aerobic capacity, functional mobility, visuospatial memory, fatigue, and quality of life and pallidum volume in pwMS.
The mediating effect of self-esteem on the relationship of living environment, anxiety, and depression of underprivileged children: A path analysis in Chinese context
Authors: Yin Xican , Li Chunkai , Jiang Shan
Published: November 2017

This study aimed to explore the relationships of living environment, self-esteem, anxiety, and depression of children in poverty. A sample of 1314 children (grades 4–9) was collected by a school-based survey in Xiushui city, Mainland China. Structural equation modeling was adopted to analyze the data and verify the hypothesized model. Results showed that living environment was negatively correlated with poor children’s anxiety and depression levels, and self-esteem had a mediating effect on the relationship between living environment and the mental health of underprivileged children. Based on these findings, we proposed relevant theoretical and practical implications.
Cosmo complaints: Reparative reading and the possibility of pleasure in Cosmopolitan magazine
Authors: Frischherz Michaela
Published: November 2017

Cosmopolitan magazine has occupied a central position in feminist cultural criticism since Helen Gurley Brown acquired the US edition of the magazine in 1965. Consequently, the magazine endures much criticism for its normative and constantly recycled sex content. By now, many of Cosmo’s problems are familiar. This article practices a reparative mode of reading to ask how the discourses of pleasure in the magazine produce, simultaneously, a sexual public aimed at building intimate associations and emergent modes of social self-stylization. The article concludes that a reparative approach makes possible moments of rhetorical invention wherein women productively articulate themselves despite the powerful missteps historically forged in Cosmo’s pages.
Many splendored things: Sexuality, playfulness and play
Authors: Paasonen Susanna
Published: November 2017

This article makes a theoretical argument for the productivity of the notions of playfulness and play in feminist and queer studies of sexuality. Defined as a mode of sensory openness and drive towards improvisation, playfulness can be seen as central to a range of sexual activities from fumbling, random motions to elaborate, rehearsed scenarios. Play in the realm of sexuality involves experimentations with what bodies can feel and do. As pleasurable activity practised for its own sake, play involves the exploration of different bodily capacities, appetites, orientations and connections. Understood in this vein, play is not the opposite of seriousness or simply synonymous with fun. Driven by the quest for bodily pleasure, play may just as well be strained, dark and hurtful in the forms that it takes and the sensory intensities that it engenders. This article argues that the mode of playfulness and acts of play allow for pushing previously perceived and imagined horizons of embodied potentiality in terms of sexual routines and identifications alike. It examines the productive avenues that the notions of playfulness and play open up in conceptualising the urgency of sexual pleasures, the contingency of desires and their congealment in categories of identity.