bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms of human FoxP3+ Treg cell development and function in health and disease
Authors: Attias M , Al-Aubodah T , Piccirillo C A
Published: March 2019

Regulatory T (Treg) cells represent an essential component of peripheral tolerance. Given their potently immunosuppressive functions that is orchestrated by the lineage-defining transcription factor forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3), clinical modulation of these cells in autoimmunity and cancer is a promising therapeutic target. However, recent evidence in mice and humans indicates that Treg cells represent a phenotypically and functionally heterogeneic population. Indeed, both suppressive and non-suppressive Treg cells exist in human blood that are otherwise indistinguishable from one another using classical Treg cell markers such as CD25 and FoxP3. Moreover, murine Treg cells display a degree of plasticity through which they acquire the trafficking pathways needed to home to tissues containing target effector T (Teff) cells. However, this plasticity can also result in Treg cell lineage instability and acquisition of proinflammatory Teff cell functions. Consequently, these dysfunctional CD4+FoxP3+ T cells in human and mouse may fail to maintain peripheral tolerance and instead support immunopathology. The mechanisms driving human Treg cell dysfunction are largely undefined, and obscured by the scarcity of reliable immunophenotypical markers and the disregard paid to Treg cell antigen-specificity in functional assays. Here, we review the mechanisms controlling the stability of the FoxP3+ Treg cell lineage phenotype. Particular attention will be paid to the developmental and functional heterogeneity of human Treg cells, and how abrogating these mechanisms can lead to lineage instability and Treg cell dysfunction in diseases like immunodysregulation polyendocrinopathy enteropathy X-linked (IPEX) syndrome, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and cancer.
Higher rates of rejection in HIV‐infected kidney transplant recipients on ritonavir‐boosted protease inhibitors: 3‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Rollins Brett , Farouk Samira , DeBoccardo Graciela , Lerner Susan , Rana Meenakshi , Huprikar Shirish , Miko Leandra , Delaney Veronica , Florman Sander , Shapiro Ron
Published: March 2019

Rejection rates in HIV‐infected kidney transplant (KTx) recipients are higher than HIV‐negative recipients. Immunosuppression and highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) protocols vary with potentially significant drug‐drug interactions, likely influencing outcomes. This is an IRB‐approved, single‐center, retrospective study of adult HIV‐infected KTx patients between 5/2009 and 12/2014 with 3‐year follow‐up, excluding antibody‐depleting induction. A total of 42 patients were included; median age was 52 years, 81% male, 50% African American, 29% Hispanic, 17% Caucasian. The most common renal failure etiology was hypertensive nephrosclerosis (50%) with 5.8 median years of pre‐transplant dialysis. All patients received IL‐2 receptor antagonist, were maintained on tacrolimus (76%) or cyclosporine (17%), and 40% received ritonavir‐boosted PI‐based HAART (rtv+) regimen. Patient and graft survival at 3 years were 93% and 90%. At 1‐, 2‐, and 3‐year time points, median serum creatinine was 1.49, 1.35, and 1.67; treated biopsy‐proven rejection was 38%, 38%, and 40.5%; and 92% of episodes were acute rejection. At these time points, rejection rates were significantly higher with boosted PI HAART regimens compared to other HAART regimens, 59% vs 24% (P = 0.029), 59% vs 24% (P = 0.029), and 68% vs 24% (P = 0.01). Despite higher rejection rates, HIV‐infected KTx recipients have reasonable outcomes. Given significantly higher rejection rates using rtv+ regimens, alternative HAART regimens should be considered prior to transplantation.
Distribution trends of European dragonflies under climate change
Authors: Termaat Tim , van Strien Arco J. , van Grunsven Roy H. A. , De Knijf Geert , Bjelke Ulf , Burbach Klaus , Conze Klaus‐Jürgen , Goffart Philippe , Hepper David , Kalkman Vincent J. , Motte Grégory , Prins Marijn D. , Prunier Florent , Sparrow David , van den Top Gregory G. , Vanappelghem Cédric , Winterholler Michael , WallisDeVries Michiel F.
Published: March 2019

Aim

Poleward range shifts of species are among the most obvious effects of climate change on biodiversity. As a consequence of these range shifts, species communities are predicted to become increasingly composed of warm‐dwelling species, but this has only been studied for a limited number of taxa, mainly birds, butterflies and plants. As species groups may vary considerably in their adaptation to climate change, it is desirable to expand these studies to other groups, from different ecosystems. Freshwater macroinvertebrates, such as dragonflies (Odonata), have been ranked among the species groups with highest priority. In this paper, we investigate how the occurrence of dragonflies in Europe has changed in recent decades, and if these changes are in parallel with climate change.

Location

Europe.

Methods

We use data from 10 European geographical regions to calculate occupancy indices and trends for 99 (69%) of the European species. Next, we combine these regional indices to calculate European indices. To determine if changes in regional dragonfly communities in Europe reflect climatic warming, we calculate Species Temperature Indices (STI), Multi‐species Indicators (MSI) and Community Temperature Indices (CTI).

Results

55 of 99 considered species increased in occupancy at European level, 32 species remained stable, and none declined. Trends for 12 species are uncertain. MSI of cold‐dwelling and warm‐dwelling species differ in some of the regions, but increased at a similar rate at European level. CTI increased in all regions, except Cyprus. The European CTI increased slightly.

Main conclusions

European dragonflies, in general, have expanded their distribution in response to climate change, even though their CTI lags behind the increase in temperature. Furthermore, dragonflies proved to be a suitable species group for monitoring changes in communities, both at regional and continental level.
eGFR and coronary artery calcification in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Hyun Young Youl , Kim Hyang , Oh Kook‐Hwan , Ahn Curie , Park Sue K. , Chae Dong Wan , Oh Yun Kyu , Choi Kyu Hun , Han Seung Hyeok , Kim Yeong Hoon , Lee Kyu‐Beck ,   KNOW‐CKD Study Investigators
Published: March 2019

Background

The independent association between eGFR and coronary artery calcification (CAC) is complex and not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between eGFR calculated from different equations and CAC in predialysis CKD patients in Korea.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, we analysed 1533 patients from the KNOW‐CKD cohort. eGFR was calculated by a four‐variable MDRD equation (eGFRMDRD), CKD‐EPI creatinine equations (eGFRCr), CKD‐EPI cystatin C equation (eGFRCys) and CKD‐EPI creatinine‐cystatin equation (eGFRCrCys). Participants were divided into eGFR categories (<30, 30‐59, 60‐89, ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m2). CACS (coronary artery calcium score) was measured using cardiac computed tomography. CAC was defined as CACS >100.

Results

Coronary artery calcification was found in 334 (21.8%) patients and was more prevalent in the lower eGFR groups (P < 0.001). In multivariate Tobit regression, CACS increased gradually as eGFRCrCys decreased (P for trend = 0.034). In multivariate logistic regression, there were gradual associations between lower eGFR and CAC when an eGFRCys or eGFRCrCys was used. The adjusted OR for CAC in the group with eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 compared to the group with eGFR ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m2 was 2.64 (95% CI, 1.09‐3.60) when eGFRCrCys was used. Of the four eGFR formulas, only adding eGFRCrCys significantly improved CAC prediction models without eGFR (P = 0.046).

Conclusions

There was a gradual and independent association between low eGFR and CAC in a predialysis CKD cohort in Korea. eGFRCrCys predicted CAC better than other equations in this population.
Interactive carbon priming, microbial response and biochar persistence in a Vertisol with varied inputs of biochar and labile organic matter
Authors: Fang Yunying , Singh Bhupinder P. , Nazaries Loïc , Keith Alexander , Tavakkoli Ehsan , Wilson Neil , Singh Balwant
Published: March 2019

There has been great interest in biochar application to soil for long‐term carbon (C) sequestration. However, the interactive priming of organic C mineralization, including shifts in microbial community structure and the persistence of biochar in a clayey soil amended with biochar and labile organic matter (LOM) over a relatively long period (i.e. years) remain poorly understood. A 2‐year incubation study was carried out with δ13C‐depleted biochars produced from Eucalyptus saligna Sm. wood biomass at 450 and 550°C. Each of the biochars (at 2%, w/w) in combination with LOM, such as sugarcane residue at input rates of 0, 1, 2 or 4% w/w, were mixed with a C4‐dominated Vertisol. The interactive effect of biochar and LOM on the structure of the microbial community was analysed by terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T‐RFLP). Our results showed that at the small LOM rates (0 and 1%), there was a positive priming effect of biochar on organic C in soil (i.e. native soil organic C (SOC) + LOM‐C)), which shifted to being negative when the LOM input was increased to 2 or 4%. Over the 2 years, mineralization of C from the 450°C biochar (1.2–1.7%) was significantly greater than that for 550°C biochar (0.6–1.0%), and the positively primed mineralization of biochar‐C by LOM was enhanced by the increasing rates of LOM input. The negative priming of native SOC + LOM‐C mineralization by biochar was greater at large than small inputs of LOM, which would have been facilitated by greater shifting in fungal communities, while enhancing biochar‐C mineralization and possibly soil aggregation. In conclusion, over the long term, the amount of LOM stabilized by biochar was greater than that of positively primed biochar‐C mineralization by LOM, in particular at the large LOM input. Biochar can persist in soil on a centennial scale and decreases the turnover of native SOC + LOM‐C over the long term, whereas LOM input can shift microbial communities, favouring LOM stabilization in the biochar‐amended Vertisol.

Highlights

Do C priming, biochar persistence and microbial response change 2 years after biochar–LOM inputs?

Examined interactive C priming (stable‐C isotope), microbial community structure and biochar MRT.

Priming of SOC ± LOM‐C by biochar and vice‐versa increased with LOM inputs.

Biochar–LOM interaction (2‐year) shifted microorganisms, favouring LOM‐C stabilization in a Vertisol.
Common trends in recruitment dynamics of north‐east Atlantic fish stocks and their links to environment, ecology and management
Authors: Zimmermann Fabian , Claireaux Marion , Enberg Katja
Published: March 2019

Recruitment dynamics are challenging to assess or predict because of the many underlying drivers that vary in their relevance over time and space. Stock size, demographic and trait composition, condition and distribution of spawning fish and the spatio‐temporal dynamics of trophic and environmental interactions all influence recruitment processes. Exploring common patterns among stocks and linking them to potential drivers may therefore provide insights into key mechanisms of recruitment dynamics. Here, we analysed stock‐recruitment data of 64 stocks from the north‐east Atlantic Ocean for common trends in variation and synchrony among stocks using correlation, cluster and dynamic factor analyses. We tested common trends in recruitment success for relationships with large‐scale environmental processes as well as stock state indicators, and we explored links between recruitment success and demographic, environmental and ecological variables for a subset of individual stocks. The results revealed few statistically significant correlations between stocks but showed that underlying common trends in recruitment success are linked to environmental indices and management indicators. Statistical analyses confirmed previously suggested relationships of environmental–ecological factors such as the subpolar gyre and Norwegian coastal current with specific stocks, and indicated a large relevance of spawning stock biomass and demographics, as well as predation, whereas other suggested relationships were not supported by the data. Our study shows that despite persistent challenges in determining drivers of recruitment due to poor data quality and unclear mechanisms, combining different data analysis techniques can improve our understanding of recruitment dynamics in fish stocks.
Risk and Protective Factors Associated with Childhood Obesity in a Sample of Low‐Income, Single Female, Parent/Guardian Households: Implications for Family Therapists
Authors: Lappan Sara N. , Parra‐Cardona J. Rubén , Carolan Marsha , Weatherspoon Lorraine
Published: March 2019

The United States is in the midst of a childhood obesity epidemic that disproportionately impacts underserved and diverse populations. In this study, in‐depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 16 low‐income, single, female, parent/guardians of an overweight or obese 3‐ to 8‐year‐old from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. Following the tenets of the thematic analysis approach, interviews focused on identifying risk and protective factors influencing parental and child health behaviors associated with child weight status. Results from the interviews are organized according to the Socioecological Framework to help identify risk and protective factors at various system levels. Findings from this investigation have relevance for family therapists as they can inform clinical and advocacy‐focused interventions with disadvantaged families affected by childhood obesity.
Director overconfidence
Authors: Beavers Randy , Mobbs Shawn
Published: March 2019

We examine overconfident chief executive officer (CEO) directors and find they attend more board meetings, are more likely to serve on the nominating or the compensation committee, have more independent directorships, and foster higher attendance rates on boards. Boards with overconfident directors are more likely to appoint a better prepared and more reputable CEO following a turnover. These newly appointed CEOs are also more likely to be overconfident. This evidence indicates overconfident CEO directors exhibit significant influence on the board and over the firm's CEO selection.
Synergistic effect of bodyweight resistance exercise and protein supplementation on skeletal muscle in sarcopenic or dynapenic older adults
Authors: Yamada Minoru , Kimura Yosuke , Ishiyama Daisuke , Nishio Naohito , Otobe Yuhei , Tanaka Tomoya , Ohji Shunsuke , Koyama Shingo , Sato Atsushi , Suzuki Mizue , Ogawa Hideyuki , Ichikawa Takeo , Ito Daisuke , Arai Hidenori
Published: March 2019

Aim

The objective of this trial was to investigate the synergistic effects of bodyweight resistance exercise and a protein supplement with vitamin D on skeletal muscle in sarcopenic or dynapenic older adults.

Methods

This was a four‐arm randomized controlled trial. Sarcopenic or dynapenic older adults were recruited for this trial. After screening, a total of 112 older adults were randomly allocated among four groups; 28 older adults each were enrolled in the combined resistance exercise and nutritional supplementation group, the exercise alone group, the nutritional supplementation alone group, and the control group. Participants in the combined group and exercise alone groups took part in a bodyweight resistance exercise program for 12 weeks. Protein and vitamin D supplements were provided every day for 12 weeks for the participants in the combined group and nutritional supplementation alone groups. We assessed the echo intensity of participants’ thigh muscle using ultrasonography, measured their appendicular muscle mass using a bioelectrical impedance data acquisition system, and tested their knee extension strength and physical function.

Results

Participants in the combined group had a significantly greater improvement in rectus femoris echo intensity and knee extension torque than those in the other groups (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the combined program increased appendicular muscle mass in sarcopenic older adults (P < 0.05), but not in older adults with low physical function with normal muscle mass.

Conclusions

The present study confirmed the synergistic effect of bodyweight resistance exercise and protein supplement with vitamin D on muscle quality and muscle strength in sarcopenic or dynapenic older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 429–437.
Anterior osteophyte resection of the ankle joint to increase range of motion in haemophilic ankle arthropathy
Authors: Yoo Myung Chul , Jeong Bi O. , Ahn Jungtae
Published: March 2019

Introduction

Haemophilic ankle arthropathy may cause joint bleeding, pain, stiffness, erosion and progressive motion limitations, including a decreased range of motion (ROM) secondary to anterior osteophyte impingement.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in the ROM and symptoms after synovectomy and anterior osteophyte resection for haemophilic ankle arthropathy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 41 ankles in 35 patients with haemophilic arthropathy who underwent arthroscopic and/or open synovectomy. The mean follow‐up period was 59.5 months. Indications for the procedure included a lack of improvement with conservative management, and the presence of haemarthrosis and arthralgia. We assessed radiographic images, ankle joint range of motion, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle‐Hindfoot score and patients’ subjective satisfaction preoperatively and at the last follow‐up.

Results

Arthroscopic synovectomy was performed in 32 ankles, open synovectomy in 6, and arthroscopic synovectomy with additional mini‐open debridement in 3. Ankle dorsiflexion improved from a mean of 2.7° preoperatively to a mean of 7.5° at the final follow‐up (P = 0.003), whereas plantar flexion improved from a mean of 30.7° preoperatively to a mean of 32.7° at the final follow‐up (P = 0.276). The AOFAS score improved from 62.2 preoperatively to 79.1 at the final follow‐up (P < 0.001). Patient satisfaction was “excellent” in 11 ankles, “good” in 22, “fair” in 3 and “poor” in 5.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic and/or open synovectomy with anterior osteophyte resection and early rehabilitation in adolescents and adults with haemophilic ankle arthropathy showed improved ankle dorsiflexion and AOFAS scores.
Prevalence and risk factors associated with hepatitis C among Brazilian male patients with haemophilia: A long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Carmo Ricardo Andrade , Martins Marina Lobato , Chaves Daniel Gonçalves , Dezanet Lorenza Nogueira Campos
Published: March 2019

People with haemophilia represent a population with a high prevalence of HCV infection due to the use of blood components and plasma‐derived clotting factor concentrates before the introduction of viral‐inactivating procedures (in the 1980s) and screening for HCV (in the 1990s). About 80% of HCV‐infected patients have chronic HCV infection, and at least 20% develop end‐stage liver disease. The aim of the study was to assess current anti‐HCV positivity in a large cohort of Brazilian haemophilia patients and to determine associated factors with HCV exposure. The study retrospectively analysed medical records of all male haemophilia patients attended the main public referral blood centre in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, from January 1985 to January 2015. Sociodemographic, epidemiological and serological characteristics were collected of all participants tested for anti‐HCV. Among 724 patients enrolled in the study, anti‐HCV was positive in 259 resulting in a seroprevalence of 35.8% (95% CI: 32.3%‐39.3%). Factors independently associated with previous exposure to HCV were as follows: age older than 30 years, moderate to severe haemophilia, detection of inhibitor at least once in lifetime and previous exposure to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection or HIV infection. Otherwise, exclusive previous use of inactivated clotting factors resulted in a significant decrease in the chance of positivity for anti‐HCV. At the end of cohort period, patients with positive anti‐HCV had a 3‐fold higher risk of death. This study showed that hepatitis C infection remains a critical problem for Brazilian haemophilia patients and reinforced the need to unify efforts to eradicate it.
Developing and applying a deductive coding framework to assess the goals of Citizen/Community Jury deliberations
Authors: Scott Anna Mae , Sims Rebecca , Degeling Chris , Carter Stacy , Thomas Rae
Published: March 2019

Background

Public participation in health policy decision making is thought to improve the quality of the decisions and enhance their legitimacy. Citizen/Community Juries (CJs) are a form of public participation that aims to elicit an informed community perspective on controversial topics. Reporting standards for CJ processes have already been proposed. However, less clarity exists about the standards for what constitutes a good quality CJ deliberation—we aim to begin to address this gap here.

Methods

We identified the goals that underlie CJs and searched the literature to identify existing frameworks assessing the quality of CJ deliberations. We then mapped the items constituting these frameworks onto the CJ goals; where none of the frameworks addressed one of the CJ goals, we generated additional items that did map onto the goal.

Results

This yielded a single operationalized deductive coding framework, consisting of four deliberation elements and four recommendation elements. The deliberation elements focus on the following: jurors’ preferences and values, engagement with each other, referencing expert information and enrichment of the deliberation. The recommendation elements focus on the following: reaching a clear and identifiable recommendation, whether the recommendation directly addresses the CJ question, justification for the recommendation and adoption of societal (rather than individual) perspective. To explore the alignment between this framework and the goals underlying CJs, we mapped the operationalized framework onto the transcripts of a CJ.

Conclusion

Results suggest that framework items map well onto what transpires in an actual CJ deliberation. Further testing of the validity, generalizability and reliability of the framework is planned.
Development of predictive regression model for perceived hair breakage in Indian consumers
Authors: Kaushik Vaibhav , Nihul Pratiksha , Mhaskar Sudhakar
Published: March 2019

Objective

To predict consumer‐perceived hair breakage based on parameters from three distinct categories 1) hair strand parameters‐like curvature, stiffness and tensile strength indices; 2) hair matrix or bulk parameters‐like smoothness, detangling, frizz & volume and; 3) biological factors like age, hair density.

Methods

Consumer‐relevant evaluation techniques were employed in a uniquely designed protocol to obtain real‐life data from the consumers’ head without impacting or damaging their hair. Hairs of 50 Indian female subjects in the age group of 20–40 years were characterized using various instrumental techniques for parameters mentioned above, apart from the hair breakage count. Multiple regression analysis was performed over the data collected to arrive at a regression equation connecting the hair breakage observed with the key parameters impacting hair breakage. Validation of the model was performed by collecting additional set of hair characterization data for 18 Indian subjects with same recruitment parameters.

Results

A second order, non‐linear multi‐regression equation was proposed for consumer‐perceived hair breakage with five predictors. A reasonable correlation (R2 = 0.76) was observed between predicted and observed consumer hair breakage values for the validation set. Apart from the hair surface lubrication parameters (smoothness and detangling forces), inherent extensional strength parameters and biologically relevant parameter – hair density – were found to influence the consumer hair breakage. The proposed model offers different insights into the interplay of parameter. The impact of the key parameters was documented on the consumer hair breakage and the same was found to fit well with the available knowledge.

Conclusions

Current work demonstrates the usefulness of regression modelling in understanding complex consumer‐relevant parameters by taking a holistic view of consumer hair breakage as a combination of various parameters measured individually at lab scale. The proposed regression equation serves as a tool for product developers to understand the physical parameters of impact when it comes to consumer‐perceived hair breakage and make required changes to the formulation. The method presented can be used to develop model for subjects from other geographies and eventually a generalized model can be proposed.
Hydrothermal synthesis of pseudocubic BaTiO3 nanoparticles using TiO2 nanofibers: Study on photocatalytic and dielectric properties
Authors: Kaya İsmail Cihan , Kalem Volkan , Akyildiz Hasan
Published: March 2019

In this study, TiO2 nanofibers were fabricated via the electrospinning method followed by air annealing. Then, Ti‐requirement in the conventional hydrothermal synthesis of BaTiO3 stoichiometry was supplied by using these nanofibers. The microstructural and compositional properties of BaTiO3 nanoparticles were studied using SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, and Raman spectroscopy. The structural analysis showed that the cubic symmetry was the dominant one in the BaTiO3 nanoparticles, whereas Raman spectroscopy indicated the coexistence of cubic symmetry with the tetragonal polymorph. The nanoparticles displayed higher photocatalytic reactivity under UV‐A light compared to visible irradiation during decomposition of methylene blue dye and reached 24.2% and 18.8% degradation, respectively, after 1 hour. Furthermore, the dielectric properties were investigated using sintered compacts of these nanoparticles. Among the employed temperatures for sintering, the highest relative density (90%) and dielectric constant (2165 at 1 MHz) were obtained at 1250°C and 5 hours. This study revealed that the electrospun TiO2 nanofiber precursor can successfully be used for the production of nanoscale barium titanate particles suitable for various applications.
Non‐native English teachers' confidence in their own pronunciation and attitudes towards teaching: A questionnaire survey in Japan
Authors: Uchida Yoko , Sugimoto Junko
Published: March 2019

The purpose of this study is to investigate non‐native English teachers' attitudes towards pronunciation instruction by exploring their pronunciation model and goal preferences and confidence in their own pronunciation. The questionnaire survey data of 100 public junior high school teachers in Tokyo indicated that the majority were less confident in pronouncing sentences and passages than words, while overseas experience had a positive effect on confidence. Covariance structure analysis confirmed that confidence led to positive attitudes towards pronunciation instruction. Native varieties were preferred as models and goals, despite a changing global context in which World Englishes are increasingly important. We discuss the necessity of providing teacher training that incorporates areas in which teachers feel less confident and setting the pronunciation goal of “intelligible pronunciation.”
Treg programming and therapeutic reprogramming in cancer
Authors: Moreno Ayala Mariela A. , Li Zehui , DuPage Michel
Published: March 2019

Summary

Overcoming the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment is the major challenge impeding cancer immunotherapy today. Regulatory T‐cells (Tregs) are prevalent in nearly all cancers and, as immunosuppressive regulators of immune responses, they are the principal opponents of cancer immunotherapy. However, disabling Tregs systemically causes severe autoimmune toxicity, hastening the need for more selective methods to target intratumoural Tregs. In this review, we discuss a burgeoning new modality to specifically target tumour‐infiltrating Tregs (TI‐Tregs) by reprogramming their functionality from immunosuppressive to immune stimulatory within tumours. As the basis for therapeutic selectivity of TI‐Tregs, we will focus on the defining features of Tregs within cancer: their highly activated state controlled by the engagement of key surface receptors, their distinct metabolic programme, and their unique transcriptional programme. By identifying proteins and pathways that distinguish TI‐Tregs from other Tregs in the body, as well as from the beneficial antitumour effector T‐cells within tumours, we highlight mechanisms to selectively reprogramme TI‐Tregs for the treatment of cancer.
Autologous platelet‐rich plasma for healing chronic venous leg ulcers: Clinical efficacy and potential mechanisms
Authors: Weller Carolina D. , Gardiner Elizabeth E. , Arthur Jane F. , Southey Melissa , Andrews Robert K.
Published: March 2019

The overall quality of evidence of autologous platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) for treating chronic wounds remains low. While further well‐designed clinical studies are clearly required to convincingly demonstrate the efficacy of autologous PRP in improved healing of venous leg ulcers (VLUs) and other chronic wounds, there is also an increasing need to better define the underlying mechanisms of action and whether positive outcomes can be predicted based on the analysis of PRP. This brief review will discuss the current understanding of autologous PRP in VLUs and whether molecular evaluation of PRP at the time of collection could potentially be informative to clinical outcomes. Benefits of the autologous PRP treatment strategy include that PRP is easily accessible and is relatively inexpensive and safe. Better understanding of the mechanisms involved could improve treatment, enable supplementation, and/or lead to gains in product development. Analysis of PRP could also add value to future clinical trials on efficacy and potentially personalised treatment regimens.
Microbial composition changes on the surface of strawberries from the field and market by 16SrDNA sequencing
Authors: Dai Baoling , Yang Hua , Dai Xianjun , Wang Wen , Wu Shenggan , Zhao Xueping , Xiao Yingping
Published: March 2019

Fresh fruit is indispensable as a part of a daily diet; however, it commonly harbors large and diverse bacteria populations, including some important human pathogens. To determine the microbial composition on the surface of a strawberry, and structural changes of microbial composition from the field and market, 16SrDNA sequencing of 32 samples collected from production field (B) and market (M), which were divided into Groups I through III, was performed in this study. As a result, the 3,073 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were clustered, and 5 phyla and 10 genera were dominant across all samples. When comparing I.B with I.M, Acinetobacter, Buchnera, and Bradyrhizobium were higher in I.B (p > 0.05), while Bacteroides, Pseudomonas, and Shewanella were higher in I.M (p > 0.05). Comparing II.B with II.M, Campylobacter was dominant in II.B, while most of the top10 genera decreased in II.M, except Acinetobacter, which presented an overwhelming richness, with an average relative abundance of 65.657 ± 1.071% (p = 0.002). Comparing III.B with III.M, Buchnera decreased in III.M, while Shewanella increased. Additionally, a certain number of opportunistic pathogens that included Acinetobacter were present in some samples. Therefore, analysis of microbial composition changes on the surface of strawberries is important for ensuring the biological safety of strawberries.

Practical applications

This paper focused on determining the microbial composition on the surface of strawberry and comparing its structural changes of microbial composition from the field and market. The study results will be helpful for ensuring the biological safety of strawberries as well as a scientific basis for the traceability of microbial contamination of strawberries.
Discovery of new depigmenting compounds and their efficacy to treat hyperpigmentation: Evidence from in vitro study
Authors: Lajis Ahmad Firdaus B. , Ariff Arbakariya B.
Published: March 2019

Human skin pigmentation is a result of constitutive and facultative pigmentation. Facultative pigmentation is frequently stimulated by UV radiation, pharmacologic drugs, and hormones whereby leads to the development of abnormal skin hyperpigmentation. To date, many state‐of‐art depigmenting compounds have been studied using in vitro model to treat hyperpigmentation problems for cosmetic dermatological applications; little attention has been made to compare the effectiveness of these depigmenting compounds and their mode of actions. In this present article, new and recent depigmenting compounds, their melanogenic pathway targets, and modes of action are reviewed. This article compares the effectiveness of these new depigmenting compounds to modulate several melanogenesis‐regulatory enzymes and proteins such as tyrosinase (TYR), TYR‐related protein‐1 (TRP1), TYR‐related protein‐2 (TRP2), microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor (MITF), extracellular signal—regulated kinase (ERK) and N‐terminal kinases (JNK) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase p38 (p38 MAPK). Other evidences from in vitro assays such as inhibition on melanosomal transfer, proteasomes, nitric oxide, and inflammation‐induced melanogenesis are also highlighted. This article also reviews analytical techniques in different assays performed using in vitro model as well as their advantages and limitations. This article also provides an insight on recent finding and re‐examination of some protocols as well as their effectiveness and reliability in the evaluation of depigmenting compounds. Evidence and support from related patents are also incorporated in this present article to give an overview on current patented technology, latest trends, and intellectual values of some depigmenting compounds and protocols, which are rarely highlighted in the literatures.
Supporting self‐management of radiation‐induced bowel and bladder dysfunction in pelvic‐cancer rehabilitation: An ethnographic study
Authors: Cerna Katerina , Ivarsson Jonas , Weilenmann Alexandra , Steineck Gunnar
Published: March 2019

Aims and objectives

To describe and understand strategies that oncological nurses use to support self‐management of radiation‐induced bowel and bladder issues in pelvic‐cancer rehabilitation patients.

Background

Nurse‐led self‐management of radiation‐induced bowel and bladder issues holds the potential to support cancer survivors.

Design

An ethnographic approach was applied in this study, which adhered to Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines.

Methods

Data collection was conducted in Sweden between October 2015–April 2018, involving observations of nurses’ daily work, formal and informal interviews, individual and group interviews, and reviews of relevant documents used in the studied practice. Furthermore, 15 supportive nurse–patient talks were observed, and an ethnographic analysis was performed.

Results

The analysis identified the following three categories of nursing strategies that support self‐management of radiation‐induced bowel and bladder issues in pelvic‐cancer rehabilitation patients: encouraging self‐reflection, tailoring solutions together and keeping patients motivated. Nurses and patients jointly make sense of patients’ symptoms using data that patients collect about themselves. Based on their shared understanding, they can co‐create solutions to meet each individual patient's needs and develop routines to keep the patient motivated in performing the devised solutions.

Conclusions

The results indicate that the strategies nurses use to support patients in self‐management of radiation‐induced bowel and bladder issues entail intertwining patients’ experiences with their nurses’ medical knowledge and specific clinical practice. Nurses’ strategies build on their ability to connect patients’ experiences and the elements of their own work practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

A deeper understanding of nurses’ strategies to support self‐management of radiation‐induced bowel and bladder issues in pelvic‐cancer rehabilitation patients can improve other self‐management programmes, inform nurses’ education and aid in the design of tools for pelvic‐cancer rehabilitation support.
BURIAL, TEMPERATURE AND MATURATION HISTORY OF CRETACEOUS SOURCE ROCKS IN THE NW PERSIAN GULF, OFFSHORE SW IRAN: 3D BASIN MODELLING
Authors: Baniasad A. , Sachse V. , Littke R. , Soleimany B.
Published: March 2019

This study presents a 3D numerical model of a study area in the NW part of the Persian Gulf, offshore SW Iran. The purpose is to investigate the burial and thermal history of the region from the Cretaceous to the present day, and to investigate the location of hydrocarbon generating kitchens and the relative timing of hydrocarbon generation/migration versus trap formation. The study area covers about 20,000 km2 and incorporates part of the intra‐shelf Garau‐Gotnia Basin and the adjacent Surmeh‐Hith carbonate platform. A conceptual model was developed based on the interpretation of 2700 km of 2D seismic lines, and depth and thickness maps were created tied to data from 20 wells. The thermal model was calibrated using bottom‐hole temperature and vitrinite reflectance data from ten wells, taking into account the main phases of erosion/non‐deposition and the variable temporal and spatial heat flow histories. Estimates of eroded thicknesses and the determination of heat‐flow values were performed by burial and thermal history reconstruction at various well and pseudo‐well locations. Burial, temperature and maturation histories are presented for four of these locations. Detailed modelling results for Neocomian and Albian source rock successions are provided for six locations in the intra‐shelf basin and the adjacent carbonate platform. Changes in sediment supply and depocentre migration through time were analyzed based on isopach maps representing four stratigraphic intervals between the Tithonian and the Recent. Backstripping at various locations indicates variable tectonic subsidence and emergence at different time periods.

The modelling results suggest that the convergence between the Eurasian and Arabian Plates which resulted in the Zagros orogeny has significantly influenced the burial and thermal evolution of the region. Burial depths are greatest in the study area in the Binak Trough and Northern Depression. These depocentres host the main kitchen areas for hydrocarbon generation, and the organic‐rich Neocomian and Albian source rock successions have been buried sufficiently deeply to be thermally mature. Early oil window maturities for these successions were reached between the Late Cretaceous (90 Ma) and the early Miocene (18 Ma) at different locations, and hydrocarbon generation may continue at the present‐day.
PETROLEUM SYSTEMS MODELLING IN A FOLD‐AND‐THRUST BELT SETTING: THE INVERTED CAMEROS BASIN, NORTH‐CENTRAL SPAIN
Authors: Omodeo‐Salé S. , Ondrak R. , Arribas J. , Mas R. , Guimerà J. , Martínez L.
Published: March 2019

The Mesozoic Cameros Basin, northern Spain, was inverted during the Cenozoic Alpine orogeny when the Tithonian – Upper Cretaceous sedimentary fill was uplifted and partially eroded. Tar sandstones outcropping in the southern part of the basin and pyrobitumen particles trapped in potential source rocks suggest that hydrocarbons have been generated in the basin and subsequently migrated. However, no economic accumulations of oil or gas have yet been found. This study reconstructs the evolution of possible petroleum systems in the basin from initial extension through to the inversion phase, and is based on structural, stratigraphic and sedimentological data integrated with petrographic and geochemical observations. Petroleum systems modelling was used to investigate the timing of source rock maturation and hydrocarbon generation, and to reconstruct possible hydrocarbon migration pathways and accumulations.

In the northern part of the basin, modelling results indicate that the generation of hydrocarbons began in the Early Berriasian and reached a peak in the Late Barremian – Early Albian. The absence of traps during peak generation prevented the formation of significant hydrocarbon accumulations. Some accumulations formed after the deposition of post‐extensional units (Late Cretaceous in age) which acted as seals. However, during subsequent inversion, these reservoir units were uplifted and eroded.

In the southern sector of the basin, hydrocarbon generation did not begin until the Late Cretaceous due to the lower rates of subsidence and burial, and migration and accumulation may have taken place until the initial phases of inversion. Sandstones impregnated with bitumen (tar sandstones) observed at the present day in the crests of surface anticlines in the south of the basin are interpreted to represent the relics of these palaeo‐accumulations.

Despite a number of uncertainties which are inherent to modelling the petroleum systems evolution of an inverted and overmature basin, this study demonstrates the importance of integrating multidisciplinary and multi‐scale data to the resource assessment of a complex fold‐and‐thrust belt.
Religion in American Presidential Campaigns, 1952–2016: Applying a New Framework for Understanding Candidate Communication
Authors: Chapp Christopher B. , Coe Kevin
Published: March 2019

The content and impact of religious communication in politics has been a topic of increasing public and scholarly interest in recent years. To provide a foundation for future research in this area, the present study theorizes five broad factors—historical trajectory, party expectations, audience religiosity, candidate attributes, and opponent strategy—that may help explain why political candidates use religious language. We employ this framework in a large‐scale computer‐assisted content analysis of U.S. presidential campaign speeches from 1952 to 2016. Findings reveal that the Reagan shift observed in prior research was driven specifically by God language, that the “God gap” between Democrats and Republicans is modest and topic‐specific, and that audience characteristics are crucial in explaining candidates’ religious communication.
Comparative studies of the growth, survival, and reproduction of diploid and triploid Kumamoto oyster, Crassostrea sikamea
Authors: Wu Xiangwei , Zhang Yuehuan , Xiao Shu , Qin Yanping , Ma Haitao , Yu Ziniu
Published: March 2019

Triploid oysters have been used for farming to improve growth but have not been created in the Kumamoto oyster, Crassostrea sikamea, which is one of the crucial aquaculture species on the southern coast of China. In the present study, triploids were created using cytochalasin B to inhibit polar body II release in C. sikamea, with the untreated oysters as controls. Triploidy rates of 87 and 57.67%, on average, were obtained in larvae and adults, respectively. Larval growth and survival of the triploid were significantly lower than that of the controls (p < 0.05). In contrast, the triploid postlarvae and adults had a significant growth advantage over the controls (p < 0.05) during the period of 180 (December) to 450 days (September of the next year). Moreover, the triploids clearly exhibited significant sterility in the reproductive season. The glycogen and triglyceride contents in the gonad, adductor muscle, mantle, and gill were higher in triploids than in controls from 180 to 450 days. As a result, high physiological energy supply was strongly correlated with superior growth and reduced reproduction in triploid C. sikamea. The triploid C. sikamea is an excellent oyster species and can be used to improve growth for C. sikamea farming.
Convex duality and Orlicz spaces in expected utility maximization
Authors: Biagini Sara , Černý Aleš
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we report further progress toward a complete theory of state‐independent expected utility maximization with semimartingale price processes for arbitrary utility function. Without any technical assumptions, we establish a surprising Fenchel duality result on conjugate Orlicz spaces, offering a new economic insight into the nature of primal optima and providing a fresh perspective on the classical papers of Kramkov and Schachermayer. The analysis points to an intriguing interplay between no‐arbitrage conditions and standard convex optimization and motivates the study of the fundamental theorem of asset pricing for Orlicz tame strategies.
When unionisation is profitable for firms in network industries
Authors: Fanti Luciano , Buccella Domenico
Published: March 2019

In an industry characterised by the presence of network effects, this paper investigates a duopolistic game in which firms may choose whether to bargain over wages and employment with unions or to face a competitive labour market (i.e., without unions). If unions are sufficiently wage‐sensitive, it is shown that the presence of sufficiently large network effects makes unionisation the Pareto efficient sub‐game perfect Nash equilibrium outcome for firms.
Do Trouvère Melodies Mean Anything?
Authors: LEACH ELIZABETH EVA
Published: March 2019

This article offers analyses of three songs by Blondel de Nesle:Onques maiz nus hom ne chanta,En tous tens que vente biseandA l'entree de la saison. It proposes that close attention to individual songs is a necessary preliminary to amassing data on overall norms that will reciprocally affect the way those individual songs are interpreted editorially and thus understood analytically. This hermeneutic circle between analysis and editing is unavoidable for trouvère song, given the relationship between the literate and oral/performative traditions implied in the degree of variation between sources. Nonetheless, certain analytical interpretations can be advanced in the first stage of considering individual songs.
Spindly and Bub3 expression in oral cancer: Prognostic and therapeutic implications
Authors: Silva Patrícia M. A. , Delgado Maria Leonor , Ribeiro Nilza , Florindo Cláudia , Tavares Álvaro A. , Ribeiro Diana , Lopes Carlos , do Amaral Barbas , Bousbaa Hassan , Monteiro Luís Silva
Published: March 2019

Objectives

Bub3 and Spindly are essential proteins required for the activation and inactivation of the spindle assembly checkpoint, respectively. Here, we explored the clinicopathological significance and the therapeutic potential of the opposing roles of the two proteins in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Materials and Methods

Bub3 and Spindly expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 62 tissue microarrays from OSCC and by real‐time PCR in OSCC cell lines and in normal human oral keratinocytes. The results were analyzed as to their clinicopathological significance. RNA interference‐mediated Spindly or Bub3 inhibition was combined with cisplatin treatment, and the effect on the viability of OSCC cells was assessed.

Results

Overexpression of Bub3 and Spindly was detected in OSCC patients. High expression of Spindly, Bub3, or both was an independent prognostic indicator for cancer‐specific survival and was associated with increased cellular proliferation. Accordingly, Bub3 and Spindly were upregulated in OSCC cells comparatively to their normal counterpart. Inhibition of Bub3 or Spindly was cytotoxic to OSCC cells and enhanced their chemosensitivity to cisplatin.

Conclusions

The data point out Bub3 and Spindly as potential markers of proliferation and prognosis, and highlight the potential therapeutic benefit of combining their inhibition with cisplatin.