bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variable Membrane Protein A of Flavescence Dorée Phytoplasma Binds the Midgut Perimicrovillar Membrane of Euscelidius variegatus and Promotes Adhesion to Its Epithelial Cells
Authors: Arricau-Bouvery Nathalie , Duret Sybille , Dubrana Marie-Pierre , Batailler Brigitte , Desqué Delphine , Béven Laure , Danet Jean-Luc , Monticone Michela , Bosco Domenico , Malembic-Maher Sylvie , Foissac Xavier
Published: February 2018

Phytoplasmas are uncultivated plant pathogens and cell wall-less bacteria and are transmitted from plant to plant by hemipteran insects. The phytoplasma's circulative propagative cycle in insects requires the crossing of the midgut and salivary glands, and primary adhesion to cells is an initial step toward the invasion process. The flavescence dorée (FD) phytoplasma possesses a set of variable membrane proteins (Vmps) exposed on its surface, and this pathogen is suspected to interact with insect cells. The results showed that VmpA is expressed by the flavescence dorée phytoplasma present in the midgut and salivary glands. Phytoplasmas cannot be cultivated at present, and no mutant can be produced to investigate the putative role of Vmps in the adhesion of phytoplasma to insect cells. To overcome this difficulty, we engineered the
Spiroplasma citri
mutant G/6, which lacks the ScARP adhesins, for VmpA expression and used VmpA-coated fluorescent beads to determine if VmpA acts as an adhesin in
ex vivo
adhesion assays and
in vivo
ingestion assays. VmpA specifically interacted with
Euscelidius
variegatus
insect cells in culture and promoted the retention of VmpA-coated beads to the midgut of
E. variegatus
. In this latest case, VmpA-coated fluorescent beads were localized and embedded in the perimicrovillar membrane of the insect midgut. Thus, VmpA functions as an adhesin that could be essential in the colonization of the insect by the FD phytoplasmas.

IMPORTANCE
Phytoplasmas infect a wide variety of plants, ranging from wild plants to cultivated species, and are transmitted by different leafhoppers, planthoppers, and psyllids. The specificity of the phytoplasma-insect vector interaction has a major impact on the phytoplasma plant host range. As entry into insect cells is an obligate process for phytoplasma transmission, the bacterial adhesion to insect cells is a key step. Thus, studying surface-exposed proteins of phytoplasma will help to identify the adhesins implicated in the specific recognition of insect vectors. In this study, it is shown that the membrane protein VmpA of the flavescence dorée (FD) phytoplasma acts as an adhesin that is able to interact with cells of
Euscelidius
variegatus
, the experimental vector of the FD phytoplasma.
Susceptibility of Primary Human Choroid Plexus Epithelial Cells and Meningeal Cells to Infection by JC Virus
Authors: O'Hara Bethany A. , Gee Gretchen V. , Atwood Walter J. , Haley Sheila A.
Published: February 2018

JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) establishes a lifelong persistence in roughly half the human population worldwide. The cells and tissues that harbor persistent virus
in vivo
are not known, but renal tubules and other urogenital epithelial cells are likely candidates as virus is shed in the urine of healthy individuals. In an immunosuppressed host, JCPyV can become reactivated and cause progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a fatal demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Recent observations indicate that JCPyV may productively interact with cells in the choroid plexus and leptomeninges. To further study JCPyV infection in these cells, primary human choroid plexus epithelial cells and meningeal cells were challenged with virus, and their susceptibility to infection was compared to the human glial cell line, SVG-A. We found that JCPyV productively infects both choroid plexus epithelial cells and meningeal cells
in vitro
. Competition with the soluble receptor fragment LSTc reduced virus infection in these cells. Treatment of cells with neuraminidase also inhibited both viral infection and binding. Treatment with the serotonin receptor antagonist, ritanserin, reduced infection in SVG-A and meningeal cells. We also compared the ability of wild-type and sialic acid-binding mutant pseudoviruses to transduce these cells. Wild-type pseudovirus readily transduced all three cell types, but pseudoviruses harboring mutations in the sialic acid-binding pocket of the virus failed to transduce the cells. These data establish a novel role for choroid plexus and meninges in harboring virus that likely contributes not only to meningoencephalopathies but also to PML.

IMPORTANCE
JCPyV infects greater than half the human population worldwide and causes central nervous system disease in patients with weakened immune systems. Several recent reports have found JCPyV in the choroid plexus and leptomeninges of patients with encephalitis. Due to their role in forming the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier, the choroid plexus and leptomeninges are also poised to play roles in virus invasion of brain parenchyma, where infection of macroglial cells leads to the development of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, a severely debilitating and often fatal infection. In this paper we show for the first time that primary choroid plexus epithelial cells and meningeal cells are infected by JCPyV, lending support to the association of JCPyV with meningoencephalopathies. These data also suggest that JCPyV could use these cells as reservoirs for the subsequent invasion of brain parenchyma.
RNA Binding Protein RBM38 Regulates Expression of the 11-Kilodalton Protein of Parvovirus B19, Which Facilitates Viral DNA Replication
Authors: Ganaie Safder S. , Chen Aaron Yun , Huang Chun , Xu Peng , Kleiboeker Steve , Du Aifang , Qiu Jianming
Published: February 2018

Human parvovirus B19 (B19V) expresses a single precursor mRNA (pre-mRNA), which undergoes alternative splicing and alternative polyadenylation to generate 12 viral mRNA transcripts that encode two structural proteins (VP1 and VP2) and three nonstructural proteins (NS1, 7.5-kDa protein, and 11-kDa protein). Splicing at the second 5′ donor site (D2 site) of the B19V pre-mRNA is essential for the expression of VP2 and the 11-kDa protein. We previously identified that
cis
-acting intronic splicing enhancer 2 (ISE2) that lies immediately after the D2 site facilitates the recognition of the D2 donor for its efficient splicing. In this study, we report that ISE2 is critical for the expression of the 11-kDa viral nonstructural protein. We found that ISE2 harbors a consensus RNA binding motif protein 38 (RBM38) binding sequence, 5′-UGUGUG-3′. RBM38 is expressed during the middle stage of erythropoiesis. We first confirmed that RBM38 binds specifically with the ISE2 element
in vitro
. The knockdown of RBM38 significantly decreases the level of spliced mRNA at D2 that encodes the 11-kDa protein but not that of the D2-spliced mRNA that encodes VP2. Importantly, we found that the 11-kDa protein enhances viral DNA replication and virion release. Accordingly, the knockdown of RBM38 decreases virus replication via downregulating 11-kDa protein expression. Taken together, these results suggest that the 11-kDa protein facilitates B19V DNA replication and that RBM38 is an essential host factor for B19V pre-mRNA splicing and for the expression of the 11-kDa protein.

IMPORTANCE
B19V is a human pathogen that can cause fifth disease, arthropathy, anemia in immunocompromised patients and sickle cell disease patients, myocarditis, and hydrops fetalis in pregnant women. Human erythroid progenitor cells (EPCs) are most susceptible to B19V infection and fully support viral DNA replication. The exclusive tropism of B19V for erythroid-lineage cells is dependent not only on the expression of viral receptors and coreceptors on the cell surface but also on the intracellular host factors that support B19V replication. Our present study shows that B19V uses a host factor, RNA binding motif protein 38 (RBM38), for the processing of its pre-mRNA during virus replication. Specifically, RBM38 interacts with the intronic splicing enhancer 2 (ISE2) element of B19V pre-mRNA and promotes 11-kDa protein expression, thereby regulating the 11-kDa protein-mediated augmentation of B19V replication. The identification of this novel host-pathogen interaction will provide mechanistic insights into B19V replication and aid in finding new targets for anti-B19V therapeutics.
Monoclonal Antibodies against Occludin Completely Prevented Hepatitis C Virus Infection in a Mouse Model
Authors: Shimizu Yoshimi , Shirasago Yoshitaka , Kondoh Masuo , Suzuki Tetsuro , Wakita Takaji , Hanada Kentaro , Yagi Kiyohito , Fukasawa Masayoshi
Published: February 2018

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) entry into host cells is a multistep process requiring various host factors, including the tight junction protein occludin (OCLN), which has been shown to be essential for HCV infection in
in vitro
cell culture systems. However, it remains unclear whether OCLN is an effective and safe target for HCV therapy, owing to the lack of binders that can recognize the intact extracellular loop domains of OCLN and prevent HCV infection. In this study, we successfully generated four rat anti-OCLN monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) by the genetic immunization method and unique cell differential screening. These four MAbs bound to human OCLN with a very high affinity (antibody dissociation constant of <1 nM). One MAb recognized the second loop of human and mouse OCLN, whereas the three other MAbs recognized the first loop of human OCLN. All MAbs inhibited HCV infection in Huh7.5.1-8 cells in a dose-dependent manner without apparent cytotoxicity. Additionally, the anti-OCLN MAbs prevented both cell-free HCV infection and cell-to-cell HCV transmission. Kinetic studies with anti-OCLN and anti-claudin-1 (CLDN1) MAbs demonstrated that OCLN interacts with HCV after CLDN1 in the internalization step. Two selected MAbs completely inhibited HCV infection in human liver chimeric mice without apparent adverse effects. Therefore, OCLN would be an appropriate host target for anti-HCV entry inhibitors, and anti-OCLN MAbs may be promising candidates for novel anti-HCV agents, particularly in combination with direct-acting HCV antiviral agents.

IMPORTANCE
HCV entry into host cells is thought to be a very complex process involving various host entry factors, such as the tight junction proteins claudin-1 and OCLN. In this study, we developed novel functional MAbs that recognize intact extracellular domains of OCLN, which is essential for HCV entry into host cells. The established MAbs against OCLN, which had very high affinity and selectivity for intact OCLN, strongly inhibited HCV infection both
in vitro
and
in vivo
. Using these anti-OCLN MAbs, we found that OCLN is necessary for the later stages of HCV entry. These anti-OCLN MAbs are likely to be very useful for understanding the OCLN-mediated HCV entry mechanism and might be promising candidates for novel HCV entry inhibitors.
Regulation of Sensing, Transportation, and Catabolism of Nitrogen Sources in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Zhang Weiping , Du Guocheng , Zhou Jingwen , Chen Jian
Published: February 2018

Nitrogen is one of the most important essential nutrient sources for biogenic activities. Regulation of nitrogen metabolism in microorganisms is complicated and elaborate. For this review, the yeast
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
was chosen to demonstrate the regulatory mechanism of nitrogen metabolism because of its relative clear genetic background. Current opinions on the regulation processes of nitrogen metabolism in
S. cerevisiae
, including nitrogen sensing, transport, and catabolism, are systematically reviewed. Two major upstream signaling pathways, the Ssy1-Ptr3-Ssy5 sensor system and the target of rapamycin pathway, which are responsible for sensing extracellular and intracellular nitrogen, respectively, are discussed. The ubiquitination of nitrogen transporters, which is the most general and efficient means for controlling nitrogen transport, is also summarized. The following metabolic step, nitrogen catabolism, is demonstrated at two levels: the transcriptional regulation process related to GATA transcriptional factors and the translational regulation process related to the general amino acid control pathway. The interplay between nitrogen regulation and carbon regulation is also discussed. As a model system, understanding the meticulous process by which nitrogen metabolism is regulated in
S. cerevisiae
not only could facilitate research on global regulation mechanisms and yeast metabolic engineering but also could provide important insights and inspiration for future studies of other common microorganisms and higher eukaryotic cells.
Human skeletal muscle contains no detectable guanidinoacetic acid
Authors: Ostojic Sergej M. , Ostojic Jelena
Published: February 2018

We analyzed data from previously completed trials to determine the effects of supplemental guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) on markers of muscle bioenergetics in healthy men using 1.5 T magnetic resonance spectroscopy. No detectable GAA (<0.1 μmol/L) was found in the vastus medialis muscle at baseline nor at follow-up. This implies deficient GAA availability in the human skeletal muscle, suggesting absent or negligible potential for creatine synthesis from GAA inside this tissue, even after GAA loading.
Accelerated gastric ulcer healing in thyroxine-treated rats: roles of gastric acid, mucus, and inflammatory response
Authors: Adeniyi Olasupo S. , Emikpe Benjamin O. , Olaleye Samuel B.
Published: February 2018

The roles of gastric acid, mucus, and inflammation on the pro-ulcer-healing effect of thyroid hormone were investigated. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: control, thyroidectomised, thyroidectomised with thyroxine treatment (100 μg·kg–1·day–1), and sham-operated animals treated with thyroxine. Thirty-five days after thyroidectomy, sham surgery, or thyroxine treatment, an ulcer was experimentally induced. Healing was assessed 3, 7, and 10 days post-ulceration by measurement of the ulcer area, gastric mucus and acid secretion, and neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as an index of inflammation. By day 10, the ulcer area had decreased in all groups. Recovery was significantly greater (P < 0.05) in thyroxine-treated rats (78.5% ± 1.6% reduction in ulcer area) than in controls (72.3% ± 1.2% reduction) or thyroidectomised rats (63.3% ± 1.9% reduction). Thyroxine-treated animals also had the highest reduction in NLR (65.0% ± 2.5%). Mucus secretion was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in thyroidectomised rats by days 3 and 7. Furthermore, by day 10, the concentration of basal acid decreased by 77.4% ± 2.6% in thyroxine-treated, 65.0% ± 0.0% in control, and 51.5% ± 3.3% in thyroidectomised rats. We conclude that thyroxine accelerates gastric ulcer healing by altering mucus and acid secretion and reducing NLR.
Public perception of UAS privacy concerns: a gender comparison
Authors: Rice Stephen , Tamilselvan Gajapriya , Winter Scott R. , Milner Mattie N. , Anania Emily C. , Sperlak Lauren , Marte Daniel A.
Published: February 2018

While much research has examined engineering and practical uses of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), there have been very few studies that have examined privacy concerns that the public may have towards UASs. Even less research has been conducted on how gender and type of UAS mission may affect privacy concerns. This paper examines gender differences in privacy concerns across a wide array of UAS mission types. We also examine potential mediators that explain why females and males differ in their privacy concerns. A total of 1067 participants were presented with various hypothetical UAS missions across four studies. They were asked to provide privacy concerns scores and related information. The results of all four studies conclude that there are distinct gender differences in UAS privacy concerns. These differences are mediated by various factors. The researchers conclude that future UAS operation should take into consideration the public’s privacy concerns and that these concerns are different for females and males.
Discotic liquid crystals of transition metal complexes, 55: Novel chlorine-substituted phthalocyanine derivatives showing mesomorphism and low HOMO energy level
Authors: Yatabe Masashi , Kajitani Akio , Yasutake Mikio , Ohta Kazuchika
Published: February 2018

We have synthesized a series of novel phthalocyaninato copper(II) (abbreviated as PcCu) compounds, 1,4,8,11,15,18,22,25-octakisalkoxy-2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24-octachloro-phthalocyaninato copper(II) (abbreviated as ([Formula: see text]-C[Formula: see text]O)[Formula: see text]-Cl)[Formula: see text]PcCu (4a–4d): [Formula: see text] 6 (a), 8 (b), 10 (c) and 12 (d)) and, for comparison, another series of PcCu compounds, 1,4,8,11,15,18,22,25-octakisalkoxyphthalocyaninato copper(II) (abbreviated as ([Formula: see text]-C[Formula: see text]O)[Formula: see text]PcCu (1a–1d)). The PcCu derivatives 1a–1d are substituted by alkoxy chains only at the [Formula: see text] positions (1,4,8,11,15,18,22,25). On the other hand, the PcCu derivatives 4a–4d are substituted by alkoxy chains at the [Formula: see text] positions and chlorine atoms at the [Formula: see text] positions (2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24). We have investigated the influence of chlorine atoms substituted at the [Formula: see text] positions of the Pc ring on mesomorphism, spectroscopic and electronic properties for these two series of PcCu derivatives 1 and 4 by using a polarizing optical microscope, DSC, temperature-variable small angle X-ray diffractometer, a UV-Vis spectrophotometer and cyclic voltammetry. Each of the derivatives 1a–1d is crystalline without showing mesomorphism. On the other hand, each of the chlorine-substituted PcCu derivatives 4a–4d shows plural phase transitions, and the longer chain-substituted PcCu derivatives 4c–4d show a rectangular ordered columnar [Col[Formula: see text](P2m)] mesophase. Furthermore, we have revealed that each of the PcCu derivatives 4a–4d shows a Q-band in the near-infrared region and a lower HOMO energy level than conventional phthalocyanine derivatives.
Antioxidant activities of the new tetrasubstituted metal-free, Zn(II) and Co(II) monophthalocyanines
Authors: Söylemez Nazlı , Yabaş Ebru , Bölükbaşı Serap Şahin , Sülü Mustafa
Published: February 2018

4-[(4′-(Tert-butyl)phenoxy)phenoxy]phthalonitrile 1 has been prepared by the reaction of 4-(4-nitrophenoxy)phthalonitrile with 4-tertiarylbutylphenole. 4-((4′-tert-butyl)phenoxy)phenoxy tetrasubstituted metal-free 2, zinc(II) 3 and cobalt(II) 4 phthalocyanines have been prepared by tetramerization of compound 1. The synthesized phthalocyanines showed high solubility in common organic solvents such as CHCl[Formula: see text]. All compounds were characterized by elemental analysis and [Formula: see text]H-NMR, [Formula: see text]C-NMR, UV-vis, IR spectra. Aggregation behaviors of these compounds have been investigated in different solvents (CHCl[Formula: see text], THF, DMF and DMSO) and different concentrations in CHCl[Formula: see text]. The in vitro antioxidant activities of phthalocyanine compounds 2, 3 and 4 were evaluated in a series of assays involving DPPH radicals, hydroxyl radicals, superoxide radicals, singlet oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. Antioxidant activity of compound 2was found to be higher than that of compounds 3 and 4.
Metacarpophalangeal Joint Arthroplasty Using Flexible Hinge Toe Implant with Grommets for Boutonnière Deformity of Rheumatoid Thumb
Authors: Nemoto Tetsuya , Ishikawa Hajime , Abe Asami , Nakazono Kiyoshi , Otani Hiroshi , Lee Hyunho , Murasawa Akira , Toyoshima Yoichi , Inagaki Katsunori
Published: February 2018

Background: MP joint arthroplasty is one of the treatment options for the rheumatoid thumb with boutonniere deformity. The use of flexible hinge toe implant for MP joint reconstruction was introduced; however, the outcome of flexible toe implantation for the reconstruction of the MP joint has not as yet been reported in detail. Therefore, in this study, we retrospectively investigated the clinical outcome and radiological findings.

Methods: We assessed 56 Swanson implant arthroplasties that used flexible hinge toe implants with grommets to address boutonnière deformity of the thumb MP joint. The minimum follow-up period was 6 months. Pain, the range of motion, grip strength, pinch strength, General health Visual analogue scale and DASH (Disabilities of Hand, Shoulder and Hand) were assessed.

Results: For most of the patients, the procedure provided painless motion and stability to the thumb. In the radiological assessments, the preoperative flexion angles at the MP joint were 45° improved to 17°. The origin of arc was shifted toward the extended position and the average arc of motion was 21°, with a flexion arc from 23° to 44°. The severity of boutonniere deformity was improved in most cases. The average grip strength changed from 110 to 121 mmHg and the average side pinch power changed from 1.5 to 2.2 kgf. General health VAS improved from 40 to 29 (p = 0.019), and the DAS28-CRP decreased from 3.3 to 2.4 (p < 0.001). Infection occurred in one case, and there were no implant fractures.

Conclusions: Swanson flexible hinge toe implant arthroplasty with grommets applied to the MP joint of the thumb was one of the recommended procedures for the reconstruction of boutonnière deformity of the thumb.
Treatment of Hand Allodynia Resulting from Wrist Cutting with Radial and Ulnar Artery Perforator Adipofascial Flaps
Authors: Irifune Hideto , Takahashi Nobuyuki , Hirayama Suguru , Narimatsu Eichi , Yamashita Toshihiko
Published: February 2018

In this article, we report two cases in which recurrent adhesive hand neuropathy with allodynia were successfully treated with radial and ulnar artery adipofascial perforator flap coverage. Treatment of recurrent neuropathy, such as recurrent carpal tunnel syndrome and re-adhesion after neurolysis using free and pedicle flaps to cover the nerves, has been reported to show good results. However, for severe painful nerve disorders, such as complex regional pain syndrome, the efficacy of this treatment was unclear. We present two cases diagnosed with recurrent adhesive hand neuropathy with allodynia, resulting from wrist cutting; these cases were treated with neurolysis and flap coverage with good results and no recurrence. This suggests that neurolysis and flap coverage are effective methods for treating complex regional pain syndrome.
Subcutaneous and Intramuscular Injection of Petrol (Hydrocarbon): A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Murphy Evelyn Patricia , Seoighe Deirdre , Beecher Suzanne , Baker Joseph F. , Hussey Alan
Published: February 2018

Deliberate injection of hydrocarbon remains an uncommon method of self harm. There is a paucity of information pertaining to soft tissue toxicity throughout the literature. Prompt recognition of the potential ramifications is needed to try salvage limb function. Hydrocarbon toxicity can result in multi organ failure. This case report demonstrates the recommended diagnostic approach, work up and treatment involved in such a case. A 26 year old male deliberately injected petrol into the anterior compartment of his non dominant forearm in a suicide attempt. Multidisciplinary involvement from surgeons, psychiatrists and hand therapists was needed to maximize functional outcome. He avoided systemic toxicity but required an urgent fasciotomy. He required significant follow up with hand therapy to regain usage of the limb. However his long term outcomes were poor with a power grading 3/5 in the anterior compartment muscles.
Visual Analysis of Brain Networks Using Sparse Regression Models
Authors: Shi Lei , Tong Hanghang , Daianu Madelaine , Tian Feng , Thompson Paul M.
Published: February 2018

Studies of the human brain network are becoming increasingly popular in the fields of neuroscience, computer science, and neurology. Despite this rapidly growing line of research, gaps remain on the intersection of data analytics, interactive visual representation, and the human intelligence—all needed to advance our understanding of human brain networks. This article tackles this challenge by exploring the design space of visual analytics. We propose an integrated framework to orchestrate computational models with comprehensive data visualizations on the human brain network. The framework targets two fundamental tasks: the visual exploration of multi-label brain networks and the visual comparison among brain networks across different subject groups. During the first task, we propose a novel interactive user interface to visualize sets of labeled brain networks; in our second task, we introduce sparse regression models to select discriminative features from the brain network to facilitate the comparison. Through user studies and quantitative experiments, both methods are shown to greatly improve the visual comparison performance. Finally, real-world case studies with domain experts demonstrate the utility and effectiveness of our framework to analyze reconstructions of human brain connectivity maps. The perceptually optimized visualization design and the feature selection model calibration are shown to be the key to our significant findings.
Vialinin A, an Edible Mushroom‐Derived p‐Terphenyl Antioxidant, Prevents VEGF‐Induced Neovascularization In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Sonowal Himangshu , Shukla Kirtikar , Kota Sumedha , Saxena Ashish , Ramana Kota V.
Published: February 2018

Increased side toxicities and development of drug resistance are the major concern for the cancer chemotherapy using synthetic drugs. Therefore, identification of novel natural antioxidants with potential therapeutic efficacies is important. In the present study, we have examined how the antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities of vialinin A, a p‐terphenyl compound derived from Chinese edible mushroom T. terrestris and T. vialis, prevents human umbilical vascular endothelial cell (HUVEC) neovascularization in vitro and in vivo models. Pretreatment of HUVECs with vialinin A prevents vascular endothelial growth factor‐ (VEGF) induced HUVEC cell growth in a dose‐dependent manner. Further, vialinin A also inhibits VEGF‐induced migration as well as tube formation of HUVECs. Treatment of HUVECs prevents VEGF‐induced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and also inhibits VEGF‐induced NF‐κB nuclear translocation as well as DNA‐binding activity. The VEGF‐induced release of various angiogenic cytokines and chemokines in HUVECs was also significantly blunted by vialinin A. Most importantly, in a mouse model of Matrigel plug assay, vialinin A prevents the formation of new blood vessels and the expression of CD31 and vWF. Thus, our results indicate a novel role of vialinin A in the prevention of neovascularization and suggest that anticancer effects of vialinin A could be mediated through its potent antioxidant and antiangiogenic properties.
A Severe Case of Ipilimumab-Induced Ileocolitis Refractory to Glucocorticosteroids and Infliximab
Authors: Poushanchi Behdod , Vallabh Hiren , Reynolds Gorman Joel
Published: February 2018

Ipilimumab is a monoclonal antibody that works as an immunotherapeutic agent through selective targeting of T cells to strengthen the response to metastatic melanoma. It is well known that this pharmaceutical agent can cause the adverse effect of colitis. We report a rare presentation of ileocolitis refractory to both glucocorticosteroids and infliximab with a resultant pneumatosis and perforation requiring subtotal colectomy and end ileostomy.
Selective Retina Therapy with Real-Time Feedback-Controlled Dosimetry for Treating Acute Idiopathic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy in Korean Patients
Authors: Kim Ye Ji , Lee Youn Gon , Lee Dong Won , Kim Jae Hui
Published: February 2018

Purpose. To evaluate short-term treatment outcomes following selective retina therapy (SRT) with real-time feedback-controlled dosimetry in Korean patients with acute idiopathic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Methods. Sixteen eyes (16 patients) with acute idiopathic CSC (symptom duration < 3 months) were included in this retrospective study. All patients underwent a single session of SRT with real-time feedback-controlled dosimetry. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central foveal thickness (CFT) before and 3 months after treatment were examined and compared. Results. The logarithm of minimal angle of resolution BCVA was significantly better 3 months after treatment (0.16 ± 0.18) than at the time of diagnosis (0.27 ± 0.18, P=0.002). Additionally, subretinal fluid had resolved in all 16 eyes 3 months after treatment and CFT was significantly lower 3 months after treatment (215.6 ± 17.9 μm) than at baseline (441.4 ± 124.8 μm, P<0.001). No notable SRT-related complications were observed during the study period. Conclusion. The results of the present study suggest that SRT is a useful therapeutic option for patients with acute idiopathic CSC. Further studies are required to better understand the long-term efficacy of this treatment. This trial is registered with clinical trial registration number NCT03339856.
Protective Effect of Boswellic Acids against Doxorubicin‐Induced Hepatotoxicity: Impact on Nrf2/HO‐1 Defense Pathway
Authors: Barakat Bassant M. , Ahmed Hebatalla I. , Bahr Hoda I. , Elbahaie Alaaeldeen M.
Published: February 2018

The current study aimed to investigate the potential protective role of boswellic acids (BAs) against doxorubicin‐ (DOX‐) induced hepatotoxicity. Also, the possible mechanisms underlying this protection; antioxidant, as well as the modulatory effect on the Nrf2 transcription factor/hem oxygenase‐1 (Nrf2/HO‐1) pathway in liver tissues, was investigated. Animals were allocated to five groups: group 1: the saline control, group 2: the DOX group, animals received DOX (6 mg/kg, i.p.) weekly for a period of three weeks, and groups 3–5: animals received DOX (6 mg/kg, i.p.) weekly and received protective doses of BAs (125, 250, and 500 mg/kg/day). Treatment with BAs significantly improved the altered liver enzyme activities and oxidative stress markers. This was coupled with significant improvement in liver histopathological features. BAs increased the Nrf2 and HO‐1 expression, which provided protection against DOX‐induced oxidative insult. The present results demonstrated that BAs appear to scavenge ROS and inhibit lipid peroxidation and DNA damage of DOX‐induced hepatotoxicity. The antioxidant efficacy of BAs might arise from its modulation of the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway and thereby protected liver from DOX‐induced oxidative injury.
Oophoropexy for Recurrent Ovarian Torsion
Authors: Hartley Jennifer , Akhtar Muhammad , Edi-Osagie Edmond
Published: February 2018

A 31-year-old nulliparous patient presents with a three-day history of right sided colicky abdominal pain and associated nausea. This patient has previously presented twice with right sided ovarian torsion with the background of polycystic ovaries in the last two consecutive years. Blood tests were normal. Due to previous history, there was a high index of clinical suspicion that this may be a further torsion. Therefore, the patient was taken to theatre for a diagnostic laparoscopy and a further right sided ovarian torsion was noted. At this time, oophoropexy was performed to the uterosacral ligament to prevent further torsion in order to preserve the patients’ fertility. In this article, we detail this case and also provide a discussion of ovarian torsion including risk factors, presentation, and current thoughts on management.
Targeting Cyclin D-CDK4/6 Sensitizes Immune-Refractory Cancer by Blocking the SCP3–NANOG Axis
Authors: Oh Se Jin , Cho Hanbyoul , Kim Suhyun , Noh Kyung Hee , Song Kwon-Ho , Lee Hyo-Jung , Woo Seon Rang , Kim Suyeon , Choi Chel Hun , Chung Joon-Yong , Hewitt Stephen M. , Kim Jae-Hoon , Baek Seungki , Lee Kyung-Mi , Yee Cassian , Park Hae-Chul , Kim Tae Woo
Published: February 2018

Immunoediting caused by antitumor immunity drives tumor cells to acquire refractory phenotypes. We demonstrated previously that tumor antigen–specific T cells edit these cells such that they become resistant to CTL killing and enrich NANOGhigh cancer stem cell-like cells. In this study, we show that synaptonemal complex protein 3 (SCP3), a member of the Cor1 family, is overexpressed in immunoedited cells and upregulates NANOG by hyperactivating the cyclin D1–CDK4/6 axis. The SCP3–cyclin D1–CDK4/6 axis was preserved across various types of human cancer and correlated negatively with progression-free survival of cervical cancer patients. Targeting CDK4/6 with the inhibitor palbociclib reversed multiaggressive phenotypes of SCP3high immunoedited tumor cells and led to long-term control of the disease. Collectively, our findings establish a firm molecular link of multiaggressiveness among SCP3, NANOG, cyclin D1, and CDK4/6 and identify CDK4/6 inhibitors as actionable drugs for controlling SCP3high immune-refractory cancer.

Significance: These findings reveal cyclin D1-CDK4/6 inhibition as an effective strategy for controlling SCP3high immune-refractroy cancer. Cancer Res; 78(10); 2638–53. ©2018 AACR.
HER3-Mediated Resistance to Hsp90 Inhibition Detected in Breast Cancer Xenografts by Affibody-Based PET Imaging
Authors: Martins Carlos D. , Da Pieve Chiara , Burley Thomas A. , Smith Rhodri , Ciobota Daniela M. , Allott Louis , Harrington Kevin J. , Oyen Wim J.G. , Smith Graham , Kramer-Marek Gabriela
Published: February 2018

Purpose: Recent studies have highlighted a role of HER3 in HER2-driven cancers (e.g., breast cancer), implicating the upregulation of the receptor in resistance to HER-targeted therapies and Hsp90 inhibitors (e.g., AUY922). Therefore, we have developed an affibody-based PET radioconjugate that quantitatively assesses HER3 changes induced by Hsp90 inhibition in vivo.

Experimental Design: ZHER3:8698 affibody molecules were conjugated via the C-terminus cysteine to DFO-maleimide for 89Zr radiolabeling. The probe was characterized in vitro and in vivo in a panel of human breast cell lines and xenograft models with varying HER3 receptor levels. In addition, the radioconjugate was investigated as a tool to monitor the outcome of AUY922, an Hsp90 inhibitor, in an MCF-7 xenograft model.

Results: We demonstrated that 89Zr-DFO-ZHER3:8698 can track changes in receptor expression in HER3-positive xenograft models and monitor the outcome of AUY922 treatment. Our in vitro findings showed that MCF-7 cells, which are phenotypically different from BT474, develop resistance to treatment with AUY922 through HER3/IGF-1Rβ–mediated signaling. Of note, the lack of response in vitro due to HER3 recovery was confirmed in vivo using 89Zr-DFO-ZHER3:8698–based imaging. Upon AUY922 treatment, higher radioconjugate uptake was detected in treated MCF-7 xenografts, correlating with an AUY922-induced HER3 upregulation concomitant with an increase in IGF-1Rβ expression.

Conclusions: These data underline the potential of HER3-based PET imaging to noninvasively provide information about HER3 expression and to identify patients not responding to targeted therapies due to HER3 recovery. Clin Cancer Res; 24(8); 1853–65. ©2018 AACR.
Giant Perivascular Epithelioid Cell Tumor of the Orbit: A Clinicopathological Analysis and Review of the Literature
Authors: Nair Akshay G. , Gore Swaranjali S. , Ganvir Amol Y. , Adulkar Namrata G. , Gopinathan Indumati , Murthy Anuradha K. , Potdar Nayana A. , Shinde Chhaya A.
Published: February 2018

Aim: To describe and review the clinical, radiological, and histopathological characteristics of an orbital perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa). Methods: A systematic review of clinical records, radiological investigations, microscopic features, and immunohistochemical characteristics was done. Results: A 9-year-old female child presented with a year-long history of a large orbital mass associated with painless, progressive proptosis of the right eye. Radiologically, a well-defined orbital mass was seen with no intracranial extension. Excision was performed and histopathological examination showed uniform epithelioid cells in nests separated by thin fibrovascular septae. The tumor cells stained positively for Human Melanoma Black-45, but neg­atively for desmin, S-100, smooth muscle actin, MyoD1, microphthalmia-associated transcription factor, vimentin, CD10, CD31, and CD34 with a low proliferation index of 5–7%. Based on the tumor’s morphological and immuno­histochemical characteristics, a diagnosis of giant orbital PEComa was made. No recurrence was seen at the last follow-up. Conclusions: PEComas are uncommon mesenchymal neoplasms that have typical histological features, with an immunohistochemical profile of negativity for epithelial markers and positivity for melanocytic markers. For benign PEComas, complete excision is advised. However, since PEComas elsewhere in the body have been known to be malignant, a close follow-up of such cases is recommended.
A Time-Series Study of the Effect of Air Pollution on Outpatient Visits for Acne Vulgaris in Beijing
Authors: Liu Wei , Pan Xiaochuan , Vierkötter Andrea , Guo Qun , Wang Xuying , Wang Qiaowei , Seité Sophie , Moyal Dominique , Schikowski Tamara , Krutmann Jean
Published: February 2018

Background/Aims: There is increasing evidence that exposure to air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2), might aggravate preexisting skin diseases such as eczema and urticaria. Here we investigated if a possible link exists between air pollution and acne vulgaris. We assessed the association between ambient air pollutant concentrations and the number of visits of patients for acne vulgaris to a dermatological outpatient clinic in Beijing, China, from April 1, 2012 to April 30, 2014. Methods: In this time period, 59,325 outpatient visits were recorded because of acne vulgaris. Daily air pollution parameters for PM10, PM2.5, SO2, and NO2 were obtained from the Beijing Municipal Environmental Monitoring Center. Results: Increased concentrations of ambient PM2.5, PM10, and NO2 were significantly associated with increased numbers of outpatient visits for acne vulgaris over the 2 years. These effects could be observed for NO2 in a single-pollutant model and for PM2.5, PM10, and NO2 in 2-pollutant models, which are closer to real-life exposure. Of note, these effects were specific because they were not observed for increased SO2 concentrations, which even showed negative correlations in all test models. Conclusion: This study provides indirect evidence for a link between acne vulgaris and air pollution.
Postpartum Weight Retention Risk Factors in a Taiwanese Cohort Study
Authors: Shao Hsin-Hui , Hwang Lee-Ching , Huang Jian-Pei , Hsu Hsin-Yin
Published: February 2018

Objective: Excess postpartum weight retention (PPWR) is related to long-term weight gain. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify the risk factors for PPWR to provide guidance for preventive strategies. Methods: This cohort study surveyed 461 women who gave birth at a medical center between March 2014 and March 2016. The participants completed a questionnaire within 1 month of delivery, and their 6-month postpartum weight was tracked. Results: The results showed that the mean pre-pregnancy BMI was 21.4 ± 3.3 kg/m2, and the mean gestational weight gain (GWG) was 12.8 ± 4.1 kg. The mean PPWR was 4.6 ± 3.5 kg at 1 month and 2.1 ± 3.3 kg at 6 months. Multivariate analysis revealed that GWG (adjusted OR: 1.92 (1.70-2.17)), pre-pregnancy BMI (adjusted OR: 0.85 (0.77-0.94)), and exclusive breastfeeding (adjusted OR: 0.55 (0.32-0.94)) were significantly correlated with a 1-month PPWR higher than the median value. In addition, GWG (adjusted OR: 1.30 (1.22-1.39)) and exclusive breastfeeding (adjusted OR: 0.37 (0.24-0.58)) were significantly correlated with a 6-month PPWR higher than the median value. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the key to reducing PPWR is to control GWG and engage in exclusive breastfeeding.
Virtual Networks for Exchanging Information and Biomaterials: Future Directions
Authors: Kourime Mariam , Ahmed S. Faisal
Published: February 2018

Clinical and research networks for rare conditions are increasingly common nowadays. Given the rarity of many such conditions, there is a need to cover more conditions, yet there is also a need to sustain and improve the quality and effectiveness of existing networks. This review will discuss the qualities that are required by a virtual network using some international clinical and research networks that are currently active in the field of rare endocrine conditions affecting sex and adrenal development as exemplars.
Heroes, Hooligans, and Knights-Errant: Masculinities and Popular Media in the Early People’s Republic of China
Authors: Wang Y. Yvon
Published: February 2018

This article is an exploration of media and gender in urban and peri-urban China during the 1950s and early 1960s – specifically, the persistent trope of the “hooligan,” or liumang. Since at least the late imperial period, Chinese authorities had feared unmarried, impoverished, rootless men as the main source of crime, disorder, and outright rebellion. Yet such figures were simultaneously celebrated as knights-errant for their violent heroism in cultural works of enormous popularity across regions and classes. As the ruling Chinese Communist Party attempted to reshape society and culture after 1949, it condemned knight-errant tales and made hooliganism a crime. At the same time, the state tried to promote a new pantheon of vigilante-like men in the guise of revolutionary heroes. But the state’s control over deeply rooted cultural markets and their products was incomplete. Moreover, the same potent tools that had empowered the Party, in particular its rhetoric of revolutionary subjectivity and its harnessing of modern media technologies, were open as never before to being adopted by the very targets of its efforts at control and censure. Marginal masculinity in the early PRC, though in many ways continuous with that in China during the previous decades and centuries, marked a new epoch: men and boys deemed hooligans were able to speak out and defend themselves as heroes.
Surface mating influences chimney/burrow characteristics of Uca rosea (Tweedie, 1937) (Brachyura, Ocypodidae) in southern Thailand
Authors: Tina Fahmida Wazed , Jaroensutasinee Mullica , Keeratipattarakarn Kanitta , Jaroensutasinee Krisanadej
Published: February 2018

We investigated how surface mating affects the characteristics of chimneys (diameter, height, and thickness) and burrows (total length, horizontal length, total depth, volume and shapes) inUca rosea(Tweedie, 1937). InU. rosea, surface mating is the main mating mode, and females incubate eggs inside their own burrows. We investigated 73 randomly selected burrows with chimneys (36 females, and 37 males). We observed that chimney and burrow characteristics, except for burrow/chimney diameter, were greater in females than in similar-sized males. The burrows were I- and J-shaped, with a higher number of J-shaped burrows in females and a higher number of I-shaped burrows in males. J-shaped burrows were longer and deeper, had greater volumes, and had higher and thicker chimneys, than I-shaped burrows. Chimney characteristics were positively correlated with burrow characteristics. Our results indicate thatU. roseafemale burrows are used for breeding, and male burrows are used for temporary stays.
New record of Munidopsis taiwanica (Decapoda, Anomura) from a mud volcano field in the Mariana Trench, with in-situ observations on habitat
Authors: Dong Dong , Li Xinzheng
Published: February 2018

Squat lobsters are prevalent in chemosynthetic environments but have been insufficiently studied in mud volcano habitats. An abyssal species,Munidopsis taiwanicaOsawa, Lin & Chan, 2008 was recently collected in a mud volcano field in the Mariana Trench at a depth greater than 5000 m, which represents a new distributional record. Its diagnostic characters are presented in this study. In-situ observation suggested thatM. taiwanicawas closely associated with this chemosynthetic environment and probably exhibited camouflage behaviour by attaching seafloor sediments onto its body.Munidopsis taiwanicais the first confirmed species of squat lobster found in the mud volcano environment, and currently represents the deepest record (5491 m) of squat lobsters in the world.
The End of The Soviet Baroque: Historical Poetics in Olesha’s Envy and Tynianov’s The Wax Person
Authors: Osipova Anastasiya
Published: February 2018

The term Soviet Baroque was coined by Viktor Shklovsky in 1929 to describe the aesthetic and theoretical tendencies of the left art of the 1920s – a generation of revolutionary artists to which he himself belongs. Shklovsky understands Baroque not as a specific historical style, but as the aesthetics of “intensive detail” and nonsychronous conception of history. With the onset of the Stalinist ideology and of the Five-Year Plan era’s optimism in the legibility of progress, Shklovsky becomes openly critical of the Soviet Baroque and his former artistic allies who espouse it. In this article I analyze the Soviet Baroque as an extension of a broader tendency that falls in line with the tradition of Historical Poetics and draw on several examples from Yuri Olesha’s Envy and Yuri Tynianov’s The Wax Person that I consider illustrative of this tendency.
Matt Kish’s Illustration: A Nuanced Remapping of Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness
Authors: Xiaoling Yao
Published: February 2018

This paper is to conduct a cross-medium study by introducing a newly published illustrated Heart of Darkness. I argue that the reciprocal cross-medium fertilization between Matt Kish’s visualized project and Conrad’s verbal story proffers an alternative nuanced way to investigate Conrad’s stance in the colonial exploitation. In Matt Kish’s illustrations, Conrad concedes that there exist differences between the blacks and the whites in physicality and cultures, but he never attempts to “dehumanize” and demonize the blacks. On the contrary, the blacks in the illustrated Heart of Darkness are capable to self-defend themselves and are endowed with the subversive power to return their gaze back to the viewers.
Pussy Riot and the Translatability of Cultures
Authors: Dzero Irina , Bystrova Tatyana
Published: February 2018

The punk feminist collective Pussy Riot translate new ideas by embedding them in the visual symbols of the target culture. With their short bright-colored dresses and tights they tap into the stylistics of the Russian female performance as non-threatening ambiance to take the stage and protest against misogyny and authoritarianism. In 2012 they performed at Moscow’s Christ the Savior Cathedral and asked the Virgin Mary to put an end to Vladimir Putin’s rule. They were captured and sentenced to two years in prison for instigating religious hatred. Welcomed in the West, they made a music video “I Can’t Breathe” (2015) using the case of Eric Garner to explain the tolerance for authority in Russia. We look at the eclectic mix of thinkers and artists Pussy Riot named as their inspirers, and use the collective’s work to examine the changing attitude to the translatability of cultures.
Victim Blaming in Twitter Users’ Framing of Eric Garner and Michael Brown
Authors: Moody-Ramirez Mia , Cole Hazel
Published: February 2018

Using a critical race lens, this analysis extends the victim-blaming literature to examine representations of Black males killed by White police officers. Specifically, it explores tweets that emerged following the deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner in 2014. Study findings indicate Twitter users often used victim-blaming discourse to present the incidents of violence against Black men as isolated cases of punishment they deserved instead of the manifestations of larger social problems and systematic injustices. Common victim-blaming themes used to frame the two men were criminal actions/culpability, physical features, and race and class characteristics. A counter narrative toward justice and policy change later emerged, and the two men’s deaths became a catalyst for change. Notably, the #BlackLivesMatter campaign became an impetus to help foster growth in the Black liberation movement.