bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on Secure Medical-Contents Strategies with DRM Based on Cloud Computing
Authors: Ko Hoon , Měsíček Libor , Choi Jongsun , Hwang Seogchan
Published: March 2018

Many hospitals and medical clinics have been using a wearable sensor in its health care system because the wearable sensor, which is able to measure the patients’ biometric information, has been developed to analyze their patients remotely. The measured information is saved to a server in a medical center, and the server keeps the medical information, which also involves personal information, on a cloud system. The server and network devices are used by connecting each other, and sensitive medical records are dealt with remotely. However, these days, the attackers, who try to attack the server or the network systems, are increasing. In addition, the server and the network system have a weak protection and security policy against the attackers. In this paper, it is suggested that security compliance of medical contents should be followed to improve the level of security. As a result, the medical contents are kept safely.
Combined Therapies of Modified Taiyi Miraculous Moxa Roll and Cupping for Patients with Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Herniation
Authors: Cai Chunyue , Gong Yuefeng , Dong Dayong , Xue Jinbiao , Zheng Xiaoting , Zhong Zhangfeng , Shao Jialong , Mi Daguo
Published: March 2018

Lumbar intervertebral disc herniation is a kind of syndrome caused by stimulation or pressure of nerve root and cauda equina due to intervertebral disc disorder, fibrous ring rupture, and pulpiform nucleus protrusion. Application of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) including acupuncture therapy and cupping therapy is unique and effective treatment for lumbar intervertebral disc herniation in China. Hence, we try to investigate the combined clinical efficacy of modified Taiyi miraculous moxa roll and cupping therapy on patients with lumbar intervertebral disc herniation. Seventy patients were randomly assigned into combined treatment group (n = 35) and control group (n = 35). The treatment group received combined therapy of modified Taiyi miraculous moxa roll and cupping therapy, while control group received acupuncture therapy alone. Diagnostic criteria of TCM syndrome, Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, and simplified McGill pain questionnaire (MPQ) were used to evaluate the therapy. 11 and 13 out of 35 subjects in the combined treatment group had improvement > 75% and between 50% and 75%, respectively. The corresponding number was 2 and 22 of 35 subjects in the acupuncture group. There was significant difference in the clinical efficacy between the treatment group and control group (P = 0.036). The scores of JOA and MPQ detected in the patients of the two groups (P < 0.05) also showed statistically significant differences. Moreover, no serious adverse events occurred in the patients, who received cupping therapy or acupuncture. The combined or alone therapies can effectively improve the treatment efficacy in the patients with lumbar intervertebral disc herniation, while the combined therapies show more comparative effectiveness. Furthermore, the combined therapies are potentially safe and cost‐effective and also benefit the improvement of short‐term pain. Therefore, the combined therapies of the two ancient TCM deserve further clinical applications.
A Computational Approach Using Bioinformatics to Screening Drug Targets for Leishmania infantum Species
Authors: Chávez-Fumagalli Miguel Angel , Schneider Mônica Santos , Lage Daniela Pagliara , Tavares Grasiele de Sousa Vieira , Mendonça Débora Vasconcelos Costa , Santos Thaís Teodoro de Oliveira , Pádua Rodrigo Maia , Machado-de-Ávila Ricardo Andrez , Leite João Paulo Viana , Coelho Eduardo Antonio Ferraz
Published: March 2018

Background. The development of new therapeutic strategies to treat patients for leishmaniasis has become a priority. The antileishmanial activity of the strychnobiflavone flavonoid was recently demonstrated against Leishmania amazonensis and Leishmania infantum amastigotes and promastigotes. The biological effect of this molecule was identified due to its capacity to interfere in the parasite mitochondrial membrane; however, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. Methods and Results. In this study, a computational approach using bioinformatics was performed to screen biological targets of strychnobiflavone in L. infantum. Computational programs, such as the target fishing approach and molecular docking assays, were used. Results showed that the putative pathway targeted by strychnobiflavone in L. infantum is the methylglyoxal degradation superpathway, and one hydrolase‐like protein was predicted to be the molecular target of this flavonoid in the parasites. Conclusion. In this context, this study provides the basis for understanding the mechanism of action of strychnobiflavone in L. infantum and presents a strategy based on bioinformatics programs to screen targets of other molecules with biological action against distinct pathogens.
Comparisons of Visual and Surgical Outcomes after Reuse or Replacement of Dislocated in-the-Bag Intraocular Lens
Authors: Baba Takayuki , Nizawa Tomohiro , Oshitari Toshiyuki , Yamamoto Shuichi
Published: March 2018

Purpose. To compare the visual and surgical outcomes after a reuse or a replacement of a dislocated in-the-bag intraocular lens (IOL). Methods. This was a retrospective, nonrandomized case series at a single ophthalmological institution. Cases with an in-the-bag dislocation of an IOL were treated by pars plana vitrectomy and the reuse or the replacement of the IOL. The lens was held by intrascleral fixation of the haptics of the IOL under both conditions. The same dislocated IOL was reused in 6 eyes (group A) or it was replaced with another IOL in the other 9 eyes (group B). The pre- and postoperative parameters analyzed included the visual acuity, refractive error, corneal endothelial cell density, and intraocular pressure (IOP). Results. There was no significant difference between the two groups in the postoperative visual acuity (P=0.388), refractive error (P=0.955), IOP (P=0.529), and endothelial cell loss (P=0.940). A breakage or a tilting of the IOL was observed and required replacement in three eyes in the reuse group (P=0.044). Conclusions. Half of the cases with reused in-the-bag dislocated IOL had a breakage or a tilting of the IOL. The replacement of the in-the-bag dislocated IOL is better than the reuse of the IOL with intrascleral haptics fixation.
Dynamical Analysis via Möbius Conjugacy Map on a Uniparametric Family of Optimal Fourth-Order Multiple-Zero Solvers with Rational Weight Functions
Authors: Kim Young Ik , Geum Young Hee
Published: March 2018

A triparametric family of fourth-order multiple-zero solvers have been proposed. In this paper, we select among them a uniparametric family of optimal fourth-order multiple-zero solvers with rational weight functions and pursue their dynamics by exploring the relevant parameter spaces and dynamical planes, by means of Möbius conjugacy map applied to a prototype polynomial of the form (z-A)m(z-B)m. The resulting dynamics is best illustrated through various stability surfaces and parameter spaces as well as dynamical planes.
Efficient Channel Selection and Routing Algorithm for Multihop, Multichannel Cognitive Radio Networks with Energy Harvesting under Jamming Attacks
Authors: Thanh Pham-Duy , Vu-Van Hiep , Koo Insoo
Published: March 2018

We study jamming attacks in the physical layer of multihop cognitive radio networks (MHCRNs) where energy-constrained relays forward information from the source to the destination. Meanwhile, a jammer can transmit interfering signals on a channel such that all ongoing transmissions on this channel will be corrupted. In this paper, all jammers can attack only one of the predefined channels in each time slot. Moreover, they can randomly switch channels to start jamming another channel at the beginning of every time slot. The switching behavior is assumed to follow a Gaussian distribution. Due to limited battery capacity in the relays, energy harvesting is utilized to solve the energy-constrained problem in the cognitive radio network. Subsequently, relays are able to harvest energy from non-radio frequency (non-RF) signals such as solar, wind, or temperature. In this paper, we determine the throughput/delay ratio as a key metric to evaluate the performance in MHCRNs. Owing to the limited battery capacity in the relays and the jamming problem, the source needs to select proper relays and channels for each data transmission frame to optimize overall network performance in terms of end-to-end delay, throughput, and energy efficiency. Therefore, we provide two novel multihop allocation schemes to maximize achievable end-to-end throughput while minimizing delay in the presence of jammers. Through simulation results, we validate the effectiveness of the proposed schemes under multiple jamming attacks in MHCRNs.
Clinical Features of Idiopathic Parotid Pain Triggered by the First Bite in Japanese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Case Study of Nine Patients
Authors: Chiba Masatoshi , Hirotani Hiroaki , Takahashi Tetsu
Published: March 2018

Objective. First bite syndrome, characterized by pain in the parotid region after the first bite of each meal, predominantly develops in patients who have had head and neck surgery. Idiopathic parotid pain (IPP) that mimics first bite syndrome may present in patients without a history of surgery or evidence of an underlying tumor, but its clinical features are unclear. This study characterized the clinical characteristics of IPP in patients with diabetes. Study Design. A retrospective case review involving the clinical findings and pain characteristics of nine patients with IPP and diabetes who presented to our department between 2013 and 2016. Results. All the patients were men diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (median age, 43 years). IPP developed unilaterally in seven patients and bilaterally in two. The median intensity of the first bite pain was 8 on a numerical rating scale of 0–10. The trigger factor was gustatory stimuli, and the trigger area was the posterior section of the tongue. Postprandial pain occurred within 1–10 min after meals in six patients. Conclusions. IPP may be considered a separate disorder, in which the pain characteristics are similar to those of first bite syndrome but the clinical features and pathophysiology are different.
A Hierarchical Neural-Network-Based Document Representation Approach for Text Classification
Authors: Zheng Jianming , Guo Yupu , Feng Chong , Chen Honghui
Published: March 2018

Document representation is widely used in practical application, for example, sentiment classification, text retrieval, and text classification. Previous work is mainly based on the statistics and the neural networks, which suffer from data sparsity and model interpretability, respectively. In this paper, we propose a general framework for document representation with a hierarchical architecture. In particular, we incorporate the hierarchical architecture into three traditional neural-network models for document representation, resulting in three hierarchical neural representation models for document classification, that is, TextHFT, TextHRNN, and TextHCNN. Our comprehensive experimental results on two public datasets, that is, Yelp 2016 and Amazon Reviews (Electronics), show that our proposals with hierarchical architecture outperform the corresponding neural-network models for document classification, resulting in a significant improvement ranging from 4.65% to 35.08% in terms of accuracy with a comparable (or substantially less) expense of time consumption. In addition, we find that the long documents benefit more from the hierarchical architecture than the short ones as the improvement in terms of accuracy on long documents is greater than that on short documents.
Flexural Strength Prediction of Welded Flange Plate Connections Based on Slenderness Ratios of Beam Elements Using ANN
Authors: Hedayat Amir A. , Jazebi Ehsan , AsadAbadi Saman , Iranpour Amin
Published: March 2018

The present study was aimed to investigate the strength and ductility of welded flange plate (WFP) connections. Using the FE method, 52 WFP connections with different beam overall depths and beam flanges/web slenderness ratios were analyzed. Fragility curves indicated that, for a WFP connection which is designed based on the seismic codes, its strength is of more concern than its ductility. In addition, limiting the width‐to‐thickness ratios of the beam flanges and web plates to and respectively, may not always lead to the achievement of adequate connection’s strength and ductility. Proposed theoretical formulas and artificial neural network‐ (ANN‐) based models developed in this study were able to adequately predict the connection strength.
Using MR-FTIR and Texture Profile to Track the Effect of Storage Time and Temperature on Pita Bread Staling
Authors: Al-Mahsaneh Majdi , Aljarrah Mohannad , Rababah Taha , Alu’datt Muhammad
Published: March 2018

Textural deterioration of pita bread, PB, due to staling is an important quality parameter during storage. Loss of freshness due to PB staling results in significant quality and economic loss. PB staling was studied using both MR-FTIR spectroscopy and textural profile including time to rupture and tensile and compressive forces. The study was conducted at room temperature (23°C) and freezing temperature (−18°C) over 96 h of storage time after baking. Some physical properties of PB such as loaf weight, dimensions, water activity, and density were measured. MR-FTIR measurement spectra in the wavelength 900–1150 cm−1 corresponding to the “saccharides” regions and the range 3000–3600 cm−1 corresponding to O-H bond stretching vibration were able to clearly detect the PB deterioration at different storage times as shown by statistical significance test. Mechanical measurements of tearing force, time to rupture, and 25% compression force were also found to be good indicators of PB quality deterioration. Time to rupture, however, was found to be the best PB deterioration indicator. In addition, PB stored at room temperature showed a significant deterioration (toughening) compared to that stored at freezing temperature which showed little or nonsignificant deterioration during storage. High negative correlation, r = -0.97, was observed between the 25% compression force and the wavenumber 960 cm−1 at room temperature.
A Rare Incidental Finding of a Foreign Body in the Nasopharynx during Adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Alshehri Waleed M. , Al-Qahtani Bandar
Published: March 2018

Diverse foreign bodies may become lodged in the aerodigestive tract, and the discovery of such foreign bodies is an expected scenario for health-care practitioners. The foreign body insertion may be accidental or deliberate, and the object may be organic or inorganic. Most accidental foreign body aspirations occur in children, and some such cases are potential threats that go unnoticed. Very few cases of foreign bodies in the nasopharynx have been reported. Herein, we describe an unusual case in which a foreign body in a child’s nasopharynx went unnoticed for 1 year and was detected intraoperatively.
Cinnamon in Anticancer Armamentarium: A Molecular Approach
Authors: Dutta Anindita , Chakraborty Anindita
Published: March 2018

In recent years, natural bioactive components draw a major attention for their potent anticarcinogenic activity. Cinnamon, one of the traditional spices, most frequently used in almost every household of tropical countries has got enormous efficacy to combat cancer. Cinnamon as a whole and/or its active components exhibited significant antineoplastic activity in different types of cancer. This review has been carried out to elicit the molecular mechanisms of action of cinnamon and its components on oncogenic regulators and related pathways. Web sites of Google Scholar, Medline, and PubMed were searched for articles written in English and published in peer-reviewed journals from 2003 to 2017. The anticarcinogenic potential of cinnamon varies with the type of cancer and also depends on the administered active compound individually or in combination with some chemicals or even extract of cinnamon as a whole. Some of its active components exert chemosensitization of well-known anticancer drugs. These outstanding properties of this spice necessitate its incorporation in both pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals to explore possibilities of formulation of novel drug from this spice for treatment and prevention strategy of cancer.
A Thermodynamics Study on the Tetrahydrofuran Effect in Exfoliated Graphite Nanoplatelets and Activated Carbon Mixtures at Temperatures between 293.15 and 308.15 K
Authors: Sirbu Florinela , Ion Alina Catrinel , Capra Luiza , Ion Ion
Published: March 2018

A thermodynamics study on exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets dispersed in tetrahydrofuran in comparison with activated carbon dispersed in same solvent was realised. The refractive index, speed of sound, and density of diluted mixed binary solutions of exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets and activated carbon in tetrahydrofuran were measured between 0 and 100 kg·m−3 with composition step of 20 kg·m−3 and at temperatures from 293.15 to 308.15 K and at normal pressure. The isentropic compressibility, acoustic impedance, specific refraction, relaxation strength, and space‐filling factor have been evaluated for six concentrations, at four different temperatures for each system. The identified possible molecular interactions between the edges and the surface of exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets and tetrahydrofuran molecules, which include modifications in the structure of exfoliated nanostructured materials in tetrahydrofuran solvent and the influence of the temperature, and of the solute concentration have been calculated based on the obtained experimental values.
Effect of Temperature and Gamma Radiation on Salmonella Hadar Biofilm Production on Different Food Contact Surfaces
Authors: Ben Miloud Yahia Najla , Ghorbal Salma Kloula Ben , Maalej Lobna , Chatti Abdelwaheb , Elmay Alya , Chihib Nour-Eddine , Landoulsi Ahmed
Published: March 2018

Salmonella is a pathogen transmitted by foods and it is one of the most important target bacteria in food irradiation studies. Few works were carried out on the effectiveness of gamma radiation against biofilms formed by this bacterium. Salmonella can form a biofilm on different material surfaces. The physicochemical properties of surfaces and environmental factors influence the adhesion of this pathogen. The present study investigated the effect of gamma radiation (1 and 2 kGy) and temperature (28°C and 37°C) on the development of Salmonella Hadar biofilm on polyvinyl chloride (PVC), glass, cellophane paper (CELLO), and polystyrene (POLY). The obtained results indicated that biofilm production is surface and temperature dependent. In addition, biofilm formation decreased significantly after gamma irradiation at either 1 or 2 kGy doses. However, the agfD and adrA genes expression did not demonstrate significant decrease. This work highlighted that gamma radiation treatment could reduce the biofilm formation of Salmonella enterica serovar Hadar on different food contact surfaces.
Characteristics of Wind Load on Spatial Structures with Typical Shapes due to Aerodynamic Geometrical Parameters and Terrain Type
Authors: Zhou Yi , Li Yuanqi , Zhang Yingying , Yoshida Akihito
Published: March 2018

The characteristics of wind load on large‐span roofs are complicated by their unique geometrical configurations and strong dependence on aerodynamic geometrical parameters and terrain type. However, there is rarely comprehensive research for characteristics of wind load on spatial structures due to aerodynamic geometrical parameters of roofs and terrain type. In this study, first, the effects of geometrical parameters of roofs and terrain type on the wind pressure distribution based on the data obtained from the existing wind tunnel tests were summarized. Then, the wind loads of full‐scale structures were predicted by CFD, and the efficiency of numerical results was further verified by the available wind tunnel tests on spatial structures. Finally, with comparative analyses of the wind pressure distribution of the roofs predicted by CFD under different cases, the effects of shape ratios, especially rise‐span ratio, height‐span ratio, length‐span ratio, and so on, and terrain type on the wind pressure field of typical spatial structures were presented. It can be beneficial to wind‐resistant design of structures and can be provided as reference for aerodynamic design optimum of span spatial structures.
Transketolase Regulates the Metabolic Switch to Control Breast Cancer Cell Metastasis via the α-Ketoglutarate Signaling Pathway
Authors: Tseng Chien-Wei , Kuo Wen-Hung , Chan Shih-Hsuan , Chan Hong-Lin , Chang King-Jen , Wang Lu-Hai
Published: March 2018

Although metabolic reprogramming is recognized as a hallmark of tumorigenesis and progression, little is known about metabolic enzymes and oncometabolites that regulate breast cancer metastasis, and very few metabolic molecules have been identified as potential therapeutic targets. In this study, the transketolase (TKT) expression correlated with tumor size in the 4T1/BALB/c syngeneic model. In addition, TKT expression was higher in lymph node metastases compared with primary tumor or normal tissues of patients, and high TKT levels were associated with poor survival. Depletion of TKT or addition of alpha-ketoglutarate (αKG) enhanced the levels of tumor suppressors succinate dehydrogenase and fumarate hydratase (FH), decreasing oncometabolites succinate and fumarate, and further stabilizing HIF prolyl hydroxylase 2 (PHD2) and decreasing HIF1α, ultimately suppressing breast cancer metastasis. Reduced TKT or addition of αKG mediated a dynamic switch of glucose metabolism from glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation. Various combinations of the TKT inhibitor oxythiamine, docetaxel, and doxorubicin enhanced cell death in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. Furthermore, oxythiamine treatment led to increased levels of αKG in TNBC cells. Together, our study has identified a novel TKT-mediated αKG signaling pathway that regulates breast cancer oncogenesis and can be exploited as a modality for improving therapy.

Significance: These findings uncover the clinical significance of TKT in breast cancer progression and metastasis and demonstrate effective therapy by inhibiting TKT or by adding αKG. Cancer Res; 78(11); 2799–812. ©2018 AACR.
CD103+ Tumor-Resident CD8+ T Cells Are Associated with Improved Survival in Immunotherapy-Naïve Melanoma Patients and Expand Significantly During Anti–PD-1 Treatment
Authors: Edwards Jarem , Wilmott James S. , Madore Jason , Gide Tuba Nur , Quek Camelia , Tasker Annie , Ferguson Angela , Chen Jinbiao , Hewavisenti Rehana , Hersey Peter , Gebhardt Thomas , Weninger Wolfgang , Britton Warwick J. , Saw Robyn P.M. , Thompson John F. , Menzies Alexander M. , Long Georgina V. , Scolyer Richard A. , Palendira Umaimainthan
Published: March 2018

Purpose: Therapeutic blockade of immune checkpoints has revolutionized cancer treatment. Durable responses, however, occur in less than half of those treated, and efforts to improve treatment efficacy are confounded by a lack of understanding of the characteristics of the cells that initiate antitumor immune response.

Patients and Methods: We performed multiparameter flow cytometry and quantitative multiplex immunofluorescence staining on tumor specimens from immunotherapy-naïve melanoma patients and longitudinal biopsy specimen obtained from patients undergoing anti–PD-1 therapy.

Results: Increased numbers of CD69+CD103+ tumor-resident CD8+ T cells were associated with improved melanoma-specific survival in immunotherapy-naïve melanoma patients. Local IL15 expression levels strongly correlated with these tumor-resident T-cell numbers. The expression of several immune checkpoints including PD-1 and LAG3 was highly enriched in this subset, and these cells significantly expanded early during anti–PD-1 immunotherapy.

Conclusions: Tumor-resident CD8+ T-cell numbers are more prognostic than total CD8+ T cells in metastatic melanoma. In addition, they are likely to initiate response to anti–PD-1 and anti–LAG-3 treatments. We propose that the immune profile of these cells prior to treatment could inform strategies for immune checkpoint blockade. Clin Cancer Res; 24(13); 3036–45. ©2018 AACR.
Clinical Utility of Cell-Free DNA for the Detection of ALK Fusions and Genomic Mechanisms of ALK Inhibitor Resistance in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: McCoach Caroline E. , Blakely Collin M. , Banks Kimberly C. , Levy Benjamin , Chue Ben M. , Raymond Victoria M. , Le Anh T. , Lee Christine E. , Diaz Joseph , Waqar Saiama N. , Purcell William T. , Aisner Dara L. , Davies Kurtis D. , Lanman Richard B. , Shaw Alice T. , Doebele Robert C.
Published: March 2018

Purpose: Patients with advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors harbor anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene fusions benefit from treatment with ALK inhibitors (ALKi). Analysis of cell-free circulating tumor DNA (cfDNA) may provide a noninvasive way to identify ALK fusions and actionable resistance mechanisms without an invasive biopsy.

Patients and Methods: The Guardant360 (G360; Guardant Health) deidentified database of NSCLC cases was queried to identify 88 consecutive patients with 96 plasma-detected ALK fusions. G360 is a clinical cfDNA next-generation sequencing (NGS) test that detects point mutations, select copy number gains, fusions, insertions, and deletions in plasma.

Results: Identified fusion partners included EML4 (85.4%), STRN (6%), and KCNQ, KLC1, KIF5B, PPM1B, and TGF (totaling 8.3%). Forty-two ALK-positive patients had no history of targeted therapy (cohort 1), with tissue ALK molecular testing attempted in 21 (5 negative, 5 positive, and 11 tissue insufficient). Follow-up of 3 of the 5 tissue-negative patients showed responses to ALKi. Thirty-one patients were tested at known or presumed ALKi progression (cohort 2); 16 samples (53%) contained 1 to 3 ALK resistance mutations. In 13 patients, clinical status was unknown (cohort 3), and no resistance mutations or bypass pathways were identified. In 6 patients with known EGFR-activating mutations, an ALK fusion was identified on progression (cohort 4; 4 STRN, 1 EML4; one both STRN and EML4); five harbored EGFR T790M.

Conclusions: In this cohort of cfDNA-detected ALK fusions, we demonstrate that comprehensive cfDNA NGS provides a noninvasive means of detecting targetable alterations and characterizing resistance mechanisms on progression. Clin Cancer Res; 24(12); 2758–70. ©2018 AACR.
Arkadia (RING Finger Protein 111) Mediates Sumoylation-Dependent Stabilization of Nrf2 Through K48-Linked Ubiquitination
Authors: McIntosh Deneshia J. , Walters Treniqka S. , Arinze Ifeanyi J. , Davis Jamaine
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: The transcription factor Nrf2 is a master regulator of the antioxidant defense system, protecting cells from oxidative damage. We previously reported that the SUMO-targeted E3 ubiquitin ligase (STUbL), RING finger protein 4 (RNF4) accelerated the degradation rate of Nrf2 in promyelocytic leukemia-nuclear body (PML-NB)-enriched fractions and decreased Nrf2-mediated gene transcription. The mechanisms that regulate Nrf2 nuclear levels are poorly understood. In this study, we aim to explore the role of the second mammalian STUbL, Arkadia/RNF111 on Nrf2. Methods: Arkadia mediated ubiquitination was detected using co-immunoprecipitation assays in which whole cell lysates were immunoprecipated with anti-Nrf2 antibody and Western blotted with anti-hemagglutinin (HA) antibody or anti-Lys-48 ubiquitin-specific antibody. The half-life of Nrf2 was detected in whole cell lysates and promyelocytic leukemia-nuclear body enriched fractions by cycloheximide-chase. Reporter gene assays were performed using the antioxidant response element (ARE)-containing promoter Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Results: We show that Arkadia/RNF111 is able to ubiquitinate Nrf2 resulting in the stabilization of Nrf2. This stabilization was mediated through Lys-48 ubiquitin chains, contrary to traditionally degradative role of Lys-48 ubiquitination, suggesting that Lys-48 ubiquitination of Nrf2 protects Nrf2 from degradation thereby allowing Nrf2-dependent gene transcription. Conclusion: Collectively, these findings highlight a novel mechanism to positively regulate nuclear Nrf2 levels in response to oxidative stress through Arkadia-mediated K48-linked ubiquitination of Nrf2.
Switch in Laminin β2 to Laminin β1 Isoforms During Aging Controls Endothelial Cell Functions—Brief Report
Authors: Wagner Julian U.G. , Chavakis Emmanouil , Rogg Eva-Maria , Muhly-Reinholz Marion , Glaser Simone F. , Günther Stefan , John David , Bonini Francesca , Zeiher Andreas M. , Schaefer Liliana , Hannocks Melanie-Jane , Boon Reinier A. , Dimmeler Stefanie
Published: March 2018

Objective—

Endothelial cells play important roles in tissue homeostasis and vascularization, a function that is impaired by aging. Here, we aim to decipher the role of the microenvironment underlying the impairment of endothelial cell functions by aging.

Approach and Results—

RNA sequencing of isolated cardiac endothelial cells derived from young and 18-month-old mouse hearts revealed that aging affects the endothelial expression of genes encoding extracellular matrix proteins, specifically the laminin β1 (
Lamb1
) and laminin β2 (
Lamb2
) chains. Whereas
Lamb1
was upregulated,
Lamb2
was decreased in endothelial cells in old mice compared with young controls. A similar change in expression patterns was observed after induction of acute myocardial infarction. Mimicking aging and injury conditions by plating endothelial cells on laminin β1–containing laminin 411 matrix impaired endothelial cell adhesion, migration, and tube formation and augmented endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition and endothelial detachment compared with laminin 421, which contains the laminin β2 chain. Because laminins can signal via integrin receptors, we determined the activation of ITGB1 (integrin β1). Laminin 421 coating induced a higher activation of ITGB1 compared with laminin 411. siRNA-mediated silencing of ITGB1 reduced laminin β2–dependent adhesion, suggesting that laminin β2 more efficiently activates ITGB1.

Conclusions—

Mimicking age-related modulation of laminin β1 versus β2 chain expression changes the functional properties and phenotype of endothelial cells. The dysregulation of the extracellular matrix during vascular aging may contribute to age-associated impairment of organ function and fibrosis.
Preclinical Studies of Stem Cell Therapy for Heart Disease
Authors: Tompkins Bryon A. , Balkan Wayne , Winkler Johannes , Gyöngyösi Mariann , Goliasch Georg , Fernández-Avilés Francisco , Hare Joshua M.
Published: March 2018

As part of the TACTICS (Transnational Alliance for Regenerative Therapies in Cardiovascular Syndromes) series to enhance regenerative medicine, here, we discuss the role of preclinical studies designed to advance stem cell therapies for cardiovascular disease. The quality of this research has improved over the past 10 to 15 years and overall indicates that cell therapy promotes cardiac repair. However, many issues remain, including inability to provide complete cardiac recovery. Recent studies question the need for intact cells suggesting that harnessing what the cells release is the solution. Our contribution describes important breakthroughs and current directions in a cell-based approach to alleviating cardiovascular disease.
Social networks: a tool for assessing the impact of perturbations on wildlife behaviour and implications for pathogen transmission
Authors: Jones K.L. , Thompson R.C.A. , Godfrey S.S.
Published: March 2018

Wildlife are increasingly subject to perturbations, which can impact pathogen transmission and lead to disease emergence. While a myriad of factors influence disease dynamics in wildlife, behaviour is emerging as a major influence. In this review, we examine how perturbations alter the behaviour of individuals and how, in turn, disease transmission may be impacted, with a focus on the use of network models as a powerful tool. There are emerging hypotheses as to how networks respond to different types of perturbations. The broad effects of perturbations make predicting potential outcomes and identifying mitigation opportunities for disease emergence critical; yet, the current paucity of data makes identification of underlying trends difficult. Social network analysis facilitates a mechanistic approach to how perturbation-induced behavioural changes result in shifts in pathogen transmission. However, the field is still developing, and future work should strive to address current deficits. There is particular need for empirical data to support modelling predictions and increased inclusion of pathogen monitoring in network studies.
Religious Women, Mystic Journeys and Agency in Early Modern Spain
Authors: Evangelisti Silvia
Published: March 2018

This article examines the narratives of female mystic journeys that were sometimes included in the biographies and the autobiographies of religious women printed in Spain between the mid-sixteenth century and the first half of the eighteenth century. By showing the ability of women to convert non-Christians in Asia, North Africa and America, and to defend the Catholic faith in Europe, the texts provide the opportunity to examine idealized models of female religious engagement from an unusual angle.
Cultural Heritage, Development, Tourism and Global Indicators: The Experience of Western Balkan Countries
Authors: Monaco Paola
Published: March 2018

In recent times, there has been increased attention paid to and interest in the protection of culture and cultural heritage in the Western Balkans. Among the wide array of interventions and projects which have been developed in this field over the years, this paper offers a comparative review of the main two global initiatives proposing the collection and publication of indicators on culture, development, and tourism: the unesco Culture for Development Indicators, and the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s Sustainable Tourism Indicators. The analysis of Western Balkan countries using these indicators helps us to see how they work in practice and what possible developmental outcomes they are likely to produce in both the short- and the long-term.
A synopsis of the genus Crotalaria (Leguminosae) in Brazil
Authors: FLORES ANDRÉIA SILVA , TOZZI ANA MARIA GOULART DE AZEVEDO
Published: March 2018

The genus Crotalaria (Leguminosae, Papilionoideae) comprises herbaceous and shrubby species with simple, 1–foliolate or 3 (4–5)–foliolate leaves, the stamens united in a sheath open at least at the base, with dimorphic anthers, and the legumes are inflated. This paper updates the taxonomy of Crotalaria in Brazil since the tratament of Bentham in Flora Brasiliensis. We provide a key, brief descriptions, illustrations and notes on affinities, geographical distribution and ecology for the 31 native and 11 introduced or naturalized species ocurring in Brazil. A lectotype for Crotalaria vespertilio Benth. is also designated.
Ophiostoma pehueninum, a new species associated with Araucaria araucana in Chile
Authors: ZAPATA MARIO , PALMA MARIA ANTONIETA , PIONTELLI EDUARDO
Published: March 2018

During a survey of fungi on Araucaria araucana in Chile, a species of Ophiostoma morphologically different to O. araucariae was collected in the Andean region. Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of ITS, β-tubulin and EF-1α sequences confirmed that this species represents a novel taxon. This taxon is described here as Ophiostoma pehueninum sp. nov. The sexual morph of O. pehueninum was characterized by long neck and peridial hyphae around the bases, and allantoid ascospores surrounded by a gelatinous sheath. In culture a hyalorhinocladiella-like asexual morph was observed. Mating compatibility tests indicated that the species is heterothallic.
Validity of Psammoperca datnioides Richardson 1848 and redescriptions of P. waigiensis Cuvier in Cuvier & Valenciennes 1828 and Hypopterus macropterus (Günther 1859) in the family Latidae (Perciformes) from the Indo-West Pacific
Authors: IWATSUKI YUKIO , NEWMAN STEPHEN J. , TANAKA FUMIYA , RUSSELL BARRY C.
Published: March 2018

Psammoperca datnioides Richardson 1848, long considered a synonym of P. waigiensis (Cuvier in Cuvier & Valenciennes 1828), is redescribed as a valid species of Psammoperca Richardson 1848. The species is likely to be endemic to Australia, where it was formerly considered to be P. waigiensis, but differs from P. waigiensis in having the following characters: more slender body (mean depth 28.9% of SL vs. mean depth 36.7% of SL in P.  waigiensis), pored lateral-line scales 49–54 (vs. 46–48 in P. waigiensis), scale rows above and below lateral line 6½ / 10½–11½ (vs 4½ / 9½–10½ in P. waigiensis), and vertical at hind margin of maxilla posterior/behind center of eye (vs. vertical at hind margin of maxilla anterior to/in front of hind margin of eye in P. waigiensis). Live specimens of Psammoperca datnioides have a uniformly dense black or brownish body, with this dark colour on body scales and pored lateral-line scales persisting even in preserved specimens. Live specimens of Psammoperca waigiensis have a brownish body, often golden in colour, and pored lateral-line scales that are yellow-edged. The COI sequence (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, 612 bp) of P. datnioides also is distinct from P. waigiensis, and the related and poorly known Hypopterus macropterus (Günther 1859). The latter species is redescribed and diagnosed with eight indistinct dark bands on the head and body, and dorsal-fin rays VII-I, 14–15 (vs. no dark bands and dorsal-fin rays VII-I, 12–13 in Psammoperca). Nominal species in the genus Psammoperca are discussed and Cnidon chinensis Müller & Troschel 1849 (type locality: Manila, Philippines) is included as a junior synonym of P. waigiensis. Psammoperca vaigiensis Boulenger 1895 is an unneeded emendation and thus an invalid name. Psammoperca macroptera Günther 1859 is retained in the monotypic genus Hypopterus Gill 1861 in the family Latidae, although the species has been overlooked in most studies on the Latidae and/or Centropomidae. A key to the Latidae is provided.
Evaluation of a Time-Dependent Model for the Intensification of Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Peng Ke , Rotunno Richard , Bryan George H.
Published: March 2018

Axisymmetric and three-dimensional simulations are used to evaluate the theory of tropical cyclone (TC) intensification proposed by K. A. Emanuel, which is based on gradient wind balance and moist-neutral ascent along angular momentum (M) surfaces. According to the numerical model results, the intensification of the TC can be divided into two periods, phase I and phase II. During phase I, the TC intensifies while the M and saturation entropy (s*) surfaces evolve from nearly orthogonal to almost congruent. During phase II, the M and s* surfaces in the eyewall and outflow are congruent as the TC intensifies, which is consistent with Emanuel’s study. Therefore, the condition of moist slantwise neutrality in Emanuel’s study is sufficiently satisfied throughout the intensification in phase II. It is also found that the sensitivity of the intensification rates to the surface exchange coefficient for entropy Ck matches Emanuel’s theoretical result, which is that the intensification rate is proportional to Ck. However, the intensification rate varies in proportion to the surface exchange coefficient for momentum Cd, while the Emanuel model growth rate is insensitive to Cd. Furthermore, although the tendency diagnosed by Emanuel is qualitatively similar to the numerical model result during phase II, it is not quantitatively similar. The present analysis finds the inclusion of non–gradient wind effects in the theoretical framework of Emanuel’s study produces an intensification rate that is quantitatively similar to the numerical model results. The neglect of non–gradient wind effects in Emanuel’s study may be the reason for the different dependence of its intensification rate on Cd compared to that of the numerical model. Other aspects of Emanuel’s study in the context of recent research on TC intensification are discussed.
Comment on “Abyssal Upwelling and Downwelling Driven by Near-Boundary Mixing”
Authors: Ledwell James R.
Published: March 2018

McDougall and Ferrari have estimated the global deep upward diapycnal flow in the boundary layer overlying continental slopes that must balance both downward diapycnal flow in the deep interior and the formation of bottom water around Antarctica. The decrease of perimeter of isopycnal surfaces with depth and the observed decay with height above bottom of turbulent dissipation in the deep ocean play a key role in their estimate. They argue that because the perimeter of seamounts increases with depth, the net effect of mixing around seamounts is to produce net downward diapycnal flow. While this is true along much of a seamount, it is shown here that diapycnal flow of the densest water around the seamount is upward, with buoyancy being transferred from water just above. The same is true for midocean ridges, whose perimeter is constant with depth. It is argued that mixing around seamounts and especially midocean ridges contributes positively to the global deep overturning circulation, reducing the amount of turbulence demanded over the continental slopes to balance the buoyancy budget for the bottom and deep water.
Shelf Flows Forced by Deep-Ocean Anticyclonic Eddies at the Shelf Break
Authors: Cherian Deepak A. , Brink K. H.
Published: March 2018

Isolated monopolar eddies in the ocean tend to move westward. Those shed by western boundary currents may then interact with the continental margin. This simple picture is complicated by the presence of other flow features, but satellite observations show that many western boundary continental shelves experience cross-shelfbreak exchange flows forced by mesoscale eddies translating near the shelf break. Here we extend our previous study of eddy interaction with a flat shelf to that with a sloping shelf. Using a set of primitive equation numerical simulations, we address the vertical structure of the onshore and offshore flows forced by the eddy, the origin of the exported shelf water, and the extent to which eddy water can penetrate onto the shelf. The simulations reveal an asymmetry in the vertical structure of cross-shelfbreak flows: the offshore flow is generally barotropic, whereas the onshore flow is always baroclinic. The exported shelf water is sourced from downstream of the eddy in the coastal-trapped wave direction and is supplied by a barotropic alongshore jet. This “supply jet” has a Rhines-like cross-shore length scale proportional to (eddy velocity scale/shelf topographic beta)1/2 measured from the shelf break. Eddy water is forced onto the shelf and is present up to a distance of one internal Rossby deformation radius, defined using shelf properties, from the shelf break. We rationalize these horizontal and vertical scales, connect them to existing observations, and extend our previous parameterization of eddy-forced offshore shelf-water flux to account for nonzero shelf slopes.
Factors influencing the level of self-stigmatisation in people with mental illness
Authors: Kalisova Lucie , Michalec Jiri , Hadjipapanicolaou Demetra , Raboch Jiri
Published: March 2018

Aim:

The aim of this study was to assess sociodemographic factors and factors connected with treatment of mental illness and to decide whether they can influence the level of self-stigma.

Method:

Sociodemographic characteristics (age, gender, family status, level of employment, level of education) and characteristics related to illness and treatment (diagnosis, length of treatment, adherence to treatment) were gathered in a group of patients in stable mental condition, without acute symptoms of mental illness. Self-stigma was measured using the Self-stigma of Mental Illness Scale – short form (SSMIS-SF).

Results:

The sample included 197 patients: 99 patients in group 1 (G1) with psychosis and 98 in group 2 (G2) with anxious and affective disorders. The average age was 44.15 ± 12.91 years, the length of illness was 11.67 ± 9.21 years and 48% of patients were men. The total average SSMIS-SF score was 61.54 ± 23.34. We found no statistically significant difference in the total level of self-stigmatisation between these groups ( t(197) = 0.77; p = .441). The level of self-stigmatisation (total score of SSMIS-SF) in patients in G1 (psychosis) increased with the length of illness r(99) = .253; p = .011. Employment status seems to correlate with the level of self-stigmatisation ( F(3, 184) = 5.27; p = .002). Patients unemployed and on disability pension had higher levels of self-stigmatisation than patients working full-time. Patients who took medication regularly (full medical adherence) had lower scores of SSMIS-SF total scores in comparison with patients with lower compliance ( t(195) = 3.476; p = .001; Cohen’s d = .25).

Conclusion:

According to our results, with regard to the factors that were followed, self-stigmatisation correlates with the presence of employment (social inclusion), duration of illness in patients with psychosis and treatment adherence. We did not find a statistically significant influence of age, gender, marital status or clinical diagnosis on the level of self-stigma.
Severe Periodontitis Is Associated with Myocardial Infarction in Females
Authors: Nordendahl E. , Gustafsson A. , Norhammar A. , Näsman P. , Rydén L. , Kjellström B.
Published: March 2018

The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that there is a sex difference in the association between periodontitis (PD) and a first myocardial infarction (MI). The analysis in the case-control study was based on 785 patients (147 females and 638 males) with a first MI and 792 matched controls (147 females and 645 males), screened for cardiovascular risk factors and subjected to a panoramic dental X-ray. Periodontal status was defined by alveolar bone loss and diagnosed as no PD (≥80% remaining alveolar bone), mild to moderate PD (66% to 79%), or severe PD (<66%). Logistic regression was used when analyzing PD as a risk factor for MI, adjusting for age, smoking, diabetes, education, and marital status. The mean age was 64 ± 7 y for females and 62 ± 8 y for males. Severe PD was more common in female patients than female controls (14 vs. 4%, P = 0.005), with an increased risk for severe PD among female patients with a first MI (odds ratio [OR] = 3.92, 95% confidence interval [CI] =1.53 to 10.00, P = 0.005), which remained (OR = 3.72, 95% CI = 1.24 to 11.16, P = 0.005) after adjustments. Male patients had more severe PD (7% vs. 4%; P = 0.005) than male controls and an increased risk for severe PD (OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.14 to 3.11, P = 0.005), but this association did not remain following adjustment (OR = 1.67, 95% CI = 0.97 to 2.84, NS). Severe PD was associated with MI in both females and males. After adjustments for relevant confounders, this association did, however, remain only in females. These data underline the importance of considering poor dental health when evaluating cardiovascular risk, especially in females.