bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors and Moderators of Quality of Life Among College Students With ADHD
Authors: Pinho Trevor D. , Manz Patricia H. , DuPaul George J. , Anastopoulos Arthur D. , Weyandt Lisa L
Published: October 2017

Objective: The current study examines (a) whether ADHD among college students is associated with differences in perceptions of quality of life (QoL); (b) the moderating roles of comorbidity, drug use, psychopharmacological treatment, and psychosocial treatment; and (c) the total impact of these variables on QoL. Method: Participants were college students with and without ADHD ( N = 372) in a longitudinal study. Results: College students with ADHD were more likely to assert negative global QoL evaluations relative to non-ADHD peers. The relationship between ADHD and QoL was not altered as a function of medication treatment, comorbid psychopathology, psychosocial treatment, or drug use. Conclusion: College students with ADHD behave similarly to other adults with ADHD in that they make lower subjective global evaluations of their QoL relative to their non-ADHD agemates. Other factors associated with ADHD and QoL do not appear to moderate this relationship.
(Arm) Wrestling with Masculinity: Television, Toughness, and the Touch of Another Man’s Hand
Authors: Diffrient David Scott
Published: October 2017

For decades, dating back to the medium’s origins as a commercially viable form of mass communication in the postwar years, US television programs have contributed to the many paradoxes of masculinity, revealing but also obscuring the normativizing function of cultural representations through the use of generic encoding and the compositional “logic” of male (visual) dominance. One visual motif in particular—the shot of two men sitting at a table, their hands temporarily locked as part of an arm wrestling contest—is noteworthy, given the frequency of its recurrence in a variety of fictional programming ( All in the Family, The Odd Couple, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Taxi, etc.) as well as for its literal staging of masculinity as spectacle, as an object of spectatorial contemplation vis-à-vis the televisual construction of “toughness” as an inherently male attribute. If television and toughness can be said to go “hand in hand,” then the actual sight of two men joined together in a physical contest hints at the idea that intimacy is at much a part of such ritualized representations as intimidation is. Indeed, what several of the episodes discussed in this article (selected from representative television programs of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s) reveal is that a man is sometimes at his most unguarded—his most forthcoming and honest—when seated opposite another man during an arm wrestling match, a moment that is deserving of consideration as a symptomatic illustration of masculinity’s paradoxes. Inspired by the early writings of Roland Barthes, in particular the French philosopher’s essay “The World of Wrestling” (published as part of his 1957 book Mythologies), I ultimately hope to reveal how seemingly innocuous images are “invested with ideological meanings,” unwittingly revealing what they often seek to conceal.
Preliminary Validation of the HS-QoL: A Quality-of-Life Measure for Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: McLellan Chelsea , Sisic Mia , Oon Hazel H. , Tan Jerry
Published: October 2017

Background:

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with adverse physical and psychosocial impacts. The development of an HS quality-of-life measure, HS-QoL, has been recently described.

Objective:

This study was designed to validate the HS-QoL.

Method:

Fifty-five patients with HS from 4 dermatology clinics completed the 30-minute online survey. Item reduction, reliability (internal consistency), and correlation analysis (to assess convergent validity) were conducted.

Results:

The HS-QoL was reduced from 53 items to 44 items, resulting in a 7-subscale questionnaire. All subscales demonstrated excellent internal consistency, except for the support subscale, which had adequate internal consistency. All 7 HS-QoL subscales were related to other measures of QoL, life satisfaction, and mental health, which demonstrates convergent validity.

Conclusion:

The 44-item HS-QoL demonstrated strong preliminary evidence of reliability (internal consistency) and convergent validity.
The EU project “United4Health”: Results and experiences from automatic health status assessment in a Norwegian telemedicine trial system
Authors: Gerdes Martin , Gallefoss Frode , Fensli Rune Werner
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease require help in daily life situations to increase their individual perception of security, especially under worsened medical conditions. Unnecessary hospital (re-)admissions and home visits by doctors or nurses shall be avoided. This study evaluates the results from a two-year telemedicine field trial for automatic health status assessment based on remote monitoring and analysis of a long time series of vital signs data from patients at home over periods of weeks or months.

Methods

After discharge from hospital treatment for acute exacerbations, 94 patients were recruited for follow-up by the trial system. The system supported daily measurements of pulse and transdermal peripheral capillary oxygen saturation at patients’ homes, a symptom-specific questionnaire, and provided nurses trained to use telemedicine (“telenurses”) with an automatically generated health status overview of all monitored patients. A colour code (green/yellow/red) indicated whether the patient was stable or had a notable deterioration, while red alerts highlighted those in most urgent need of follow-up. The telenurses could manually overwrite the status level based on the patients’ conditions observed through video consultation.

Results

Health status evaluation in 4970 telemonitor datasets were assessed retrospectively. The automatic health status determination (subgroup of 33 patients) showed green status at 46% of the days during a one-month monitoring period, 28% yellow status, and 19% red status (no data reported at 7% of the days). The telenurses manually downrated approximately 10% of the red or yellow alerts.

Discussion

The evaluation of the defined real-time health status assessment algorithms, which involve static rules with personally adapted elements, shows limitations to adapt long-term home monitoring with adequate interpretation of day-to-day changes in the patient’s condition. Thus, due to the given sensitivity and specificity of such algorithms, it seems challenging to avoid false high alerts.
Critical health psychology in New Zealand: Developments, directions and reflections
Authors: Chamberlain Kerry , Lyons Antonia C , Stephens Christine
Published: October 2017

We examine how critical health psychology developed in New Zealand, taking an historical perspective to document important influences. We discuss how academic appointments created a confluence of critical researchers at Massey University, how interest in health psychology arose and expanded, how the critical turn eventuated and how connections, both local and international, were important in building and sustaining these developments. We discuss the evolution of teaching a critical health psychology training programme, describe the research agendas and professional activities of academic staff involved and how this sustains the critical agenda. We close with some reflections on progress and attainment.
Smokeless tobacco (snus) use and colorectal cancer incidence and survival: Results from nine pooled cohorts
Authors: Araghi Marzieh , Galanti Maria Rosaria , Lundberg Michael , Liu Zhiwei , Ye Weimin , Lager Anton , Engström Gunnar , Manjer Jonas , Alfredsson Lars , Knutsson Anders , Norberg Margareta , Palmqvist Richard , Gylling Björn , Wennberg Patrik , Lagerros Ylva trolle , Bellocco Rino , Pedersen Nancy L. , Östergren Per-olof , Magnusson Cecilia
Published: October 2017

Aims: Although smoking is considered to be an established risk factor for colorectal cancer, the current evidence on the association between smokeless tobacco and colorectal cancer is scant and inconclusive. We used pooled individual data from the Swedish Collaboration on Health Effects of Snus Use to assess this association. Methods: A total of 417,872 male participants from nine cohort studies across Sweden were followed up for incidence of colorectal cancer and death. Outcomes were ascertained through linkage to health registers. We used shared frailty models with random effects at the study level to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: During 7,135,504 person-years of observation, 4170 men developed colorectal cancer. There was no clear association between snus use and colorectal cancer overall. Exclusive current snus users, however, had an increased risk of rectal cancer (HR 1.40: 95% CI 1.09, 1.79). There were no statistically significant associations between snus use and either all-cause or colorectal cancer-specific mortality after colorectal cancer diagnosis. Conclusions: Our findings, from a large sample, do not support any strong relationships between snus use and colorectal cancer risk and survival among men. However, the observed increased risk of rectal cancer is noteworthy, and in merit of further attention.
Educational inequality in cardiovascular diseases: a sibling approach
Authors: Søndergaard Grethe , Dalton Susanne Oksbjerg , Mortensen Laust Hvas , Osler Merete
Published: October 2017

Aims: Educational inequality in diseases in the circulatory system (here termed cardiovascular disease) is well documented but may be confounded by early life factors. The aim of this observational study was to examine whether the associations between education and all cardiovascular diseases, ischaemic heart disease and stroke, respectively, were explained by family factors shared by siblings. Methods: The study population included all individuals born in Denmark between 1950 and 1979 who had at least one full sibling born in the same period. Using Cox regression, data were analysed in conventional cohort and within-sibship analyses in which the association was examined within siblings discordant on education. Assuming that attenuation of associations in the within-sibship as compared with the cohort analyses would indicate confounding from factors shared within families. Results: A lower educational status was associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, ischaemic heart disease and stroke. All associations attenuated in the within-sibship analyses, in particular in the analyses on ischaemic heart disease before age 45 years. For instance, in the cohort analyses, the hazard rate of ischaemic heart disease among women less than 45 years who had a primary school education was 94% (hazard ratio 1.94 (1.78–2.12) higher than among those with a vocational education, while it attenuated to 51% (hazard ratio 1.51 (1.34–1.71)) in the within-sibship analysis. Conclusions: Confounding from factors shared by siblings explained the associations between education and the cardiovascular disease outcomes but to varying degrees. This should be taken into account when planning interventions aimed at reducing educational inequalities in the development of cardiovascular disease, ischaemic heart disease and stroke.
Integrated vehicle dynamics control using semi-active suspension and active braking systems
Authors: Soltani Abbas , Bagheri Ahmad , Azadi Shahram
Published: October 2017

This article presents an integrated control of yaw, roll and vertical dynamics based on a semi-active suspension and an electronic stability control with active differential braking system. During extreme manoeuvres, the probability of vehicle rollover is increased and the stability of lateral and yaw vehicle motions is deteriorated because of the saturation of tyre forces. Furthermore, when the road excitation frequencies are equal to the natural frequencies of the unsprung masses, the resonance phenomena occurs, which causes some oscillations getting revealed on responses of the yaw and lateral vehicle dynamics. In these situations, the active braking alone cannot be helpful to improve the vehicle handling and stability, considerably. In order to overcome these difficulties, a coordinated control of the semi-active suspension and the active braking is proposed, using a fuzzy controller and an adaptive sliding mode controller, respectively. A non-linear full vehicle model with 14 degrees of freedom is established and combined with the modified Pacejka tyre model. As the majority of vehicle dynamics variables and the road profile inputs cannot be measured in a cost-efficient way, a non-linear estimator based on unscented Kalman filter is designed to estimate the entire vehicle dynamics states and the road unevenness. Simulation results of the steering manoeuvres on the random road inputs show that the proposed chassis system can effectively improve the vehicle handling, stability and ride comfort.
Development of alternative bondings for the production of stitch-free non-crimp fabrics made of multiple carbon fiber heavy tows for construction industry
Authors: Hahn Lars , Rittner Steffen , Bauer Christian , Cherif Chokri
Published: October 2017

In the wind energy sector, automotive and aviation industries, non-crimp fabrics have been established for many years. Non-crimp fabrics are also increasingly being sought in the construction sector. Due the connection to the concrete, the non-crimp fabrics with a grid-like open structure are used as textile reinforcements. This paper presents the development of alternative stitch-free bonding technologies for non-crimp fabrics based on multiple carbon fiber heavy tows for textile-reinforced concrete components. For this purpose, an initial analysis is carried out to find out the effect of impregnation on the number of roving layers. Further examinations to determine the process-related limits and mechanical process parameters for using this kind of rovings in textile machines are performed on the influence of multiple roving tension on changes width. Finally, the strength of the bonding points of the non-crimp fabrics produced in a laboratory scale is thoroughly investigated by varying the grid geometry, number of roving layers and bonding technology. The investigations show a good potential of the developed bonding technologies for the production of alternative bonded stitch-free non-crimp fabrics. Compared to grid-like open structures, which are connected by stitching threads, the strength of the bonding points can be increased up to 30%, by the developed stitch-free bonding technologies.
Severe cerebellar hemorrhage following transverse sinus stenting for idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Authors: Lavoie Pascale , Audet Marie-Ève , Gariepy Jean-Luc , Savard Martin , Verreault Steve , Gourdeau Alain , Milot Geneviève , Carrondo Cottin Sylvine
Published: October 2017

We report a severe adverse event occurring in the course of a cohort study (ISRCTN13784335) aimed at measuring the efficacy and safety of venous stenting in the treatment of patients with medically refractory idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). The patient was a 41-year-old woman who was not overweight, who presented with severe headache, grade 1 bilateral papilledema and transient tinnitus, refractory to medical treatment. Right transverse sinus stenting was successfully performed. Following surgery, the patient’s state of consciousness decreased acutely with rapid and progressive loss of brainstem reflex. CT scan revealed acute cerebellar and intraventricular hemorrhage with obstructive hydrocephalus. Angioscan revealed normal venous sinus patency and cerebral MRI showed acute mesencephalic ischemia. Mechanical impairment of cerebellar venous drainage by the stent or venous perforation with the large guidewire used in this technique are two logical ways to explain the cerebellar hemorrhage seen in our patient. The risk of such a complication could probably be reduced using alternative tools and technique. However, given the low level of evidence around the safety of transverse sinus stenting in IIH, its formal assessment in clinical trials is required.
Infrared thermographic measurement of the surface temperature and emissivity of glossy materials
Authors: Alexa Petr , Solař Jaroslav , Čmiel Filip , Valíček Pavel , Kadulová Miroslava
Published: October 2017

Determination of the surface temperature and emissivity of glossy materials is a complicated task due to the relatively wide range of emissivity values and the reflection of infrared radiation from surrounding objects. As a consequence, standard methods used in infrared thermography are not applicable. In this article, an alternative method is proposed for the measurement of the surface temperature and emissivity of glossy materials used in the external structures of buildings that is based on an external source of thermal radiation. It is shown that the method gives quite accurate values of emissivity of both low- and high-emissivity glossy materials, whereas the surface temperature of low-emissivity glossy materials is less accurate and strongly depends on the accuracy of the used thermal camera.
Reiterated Concerns and Further Challenges for Mindfulness and Meditation Research: A Reply to Davidson and Dahl
Authors: Van Dam Nicholas T. , van Vugt Marieke K. , Vago David R. , Schmalzl Laura , Saron Clifford D. , Olendzki Andrew , Meissner Ted , Lazar Sara W. , Gorchov Jolie , Fox Kieran C. R. , Field Brent A. , Britton Willoughby B. , Brefczynski-Lewis Julie A. , Meyer David E.
Published: October 2017

In response to our article, Davidson and Dahl offer commentary and advice regarding additional topics crucial to a comprehensive prescriptive agenda for future research on mindfulness and meditation. Their commentary raises further challenges and provides an important complement to our article. More consideration of these issues is especially welcome because limited space precluded us from addressing all relevant topics. While we agree with many of Davidson and Dahl’s suggestions, the present reply (a) highlights reasons why the concerns we expressed are still especially germane to mindfulness and meditation research (even though those concerns may not be entirely unique) and (b) gives more context to other issues posed by them. We discuss special characteristics of individuals who participate in mindfulness and meditation research and focus on the vulnerability of this field inherent in its relative youthfulness compared to other more mature scientific disciplines. Moreover, our reply highlights the serious consequences of adverse experiences suffered by a significant subset of individuals during mindfulness and other contemplative practices. We also scrutinize common contemporary applications of mindfulness and meditation to illness, and some caveats are introduced regarding mobile technologies for guidance of contemplative practices.
A preliminary investigation into the discriminant and ecological validity of the athletic ability assessment in elite Australian rules football
Authors: Garrett Joel M , McKeown Ian , Burgess Darren J , Woods Carl T , Eston Roger G
Published: October 2017

Objectives:

To establish the discriminant validity of the athletic ability assessment in elite Australian rules football. Secondarily, to examine the association between athletic ability assessment and maximum running velocity extracted from elite Australian rules football game-play.

Methods:

To establish the discriminant validity of the athletic ability assessment, 43 Australian Football League players from one club were split into two groups based upon playing status; ‘starters’ ( n = 17; selected in 50% of the first 10 games of the Australian Football League season), ‘non-starters’ ( n = 26; not selected in 50% of the first 10 games of the Australian Football League season). Each group performed a modified version of the athletic ability assessment consisting of five foundational athletic movements. An independent-sampled t-test modelled the effect of player group (starters; non-starters) on the total score and for each individual exercise. Pearson product moment correlation was also conducted to establish the association between maximum running velocity and athletic ability assessment.

Results:

The starters attained a significantly greater total mean score on the athletic ability assessment ( d = 1.04, p < 0.05), overhead squat ( d = 0.96, p < 0.05), double lunge left ( d = 0.64, p < 0.05), single leg Romanian deadlift left ( d = 1.19, p < 0.05) and right single leg Romanian dead lift ( d = 0.79, p < 0.05) relative to the non-starters. Also noted were moderate, positive correlations between maximum running velocity and athletic ability assessment ( r = 0.31–0.46; p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

The results support the use of the athletic ability assessment to measure movement competency in elite Australian rules football. Accordingly, physical development coaches may consider its integration in high-performance training programs.
Characterizing and modeling the enhancement of lift and payload capacity resulting from thrust augmentation in a propeller-assisted flapping wing air vehicle
Authors: Holness Alex E , Bruck Hugh A , Gupta Satyandra K
Published: October 2017

Biologically-inspired flapping wing flight is attractive at low Reynolds numbers and at high angles of attack, where fixed wing flight performance declines precipitously. While the merits of flapping propulsion have been intensely investigated, enhancing flapping propulsion has proven challenging because of hardware constraints and the complexity of the design space. For example, increasing the size of wings generates aerodynamic forces that exceed the limits of actuators used to drive the wings, reducing flapping amplitude at higher frequencies and causing thrust to taper off. Therefore, augmentation of aerodynamic force production from alternative propulsion modes can potentially enhance biologically-inspired flight. In this paper, we explore the use of auxiliary propellers on Robo Raven, an existing flapping wing air vehicle (FWAV), to augment thrust without altering wing design or flapping mechanics. Designing such a platform poses two major challenges. First, potential for negative interaction between the flapping and propeller airflow reducing thrust generation. Second, adding propellers to an existing platform increases platform weight and requires additional power from heavier energy sources for comparable flight time. In this paper, three major findings are reported addressing these challenges. First, locating the propellers behind the flapping wings (i.e. in the wake) exhibits minimal coupling without positional sensitivity for the propeller placement at or below the platform centerline. Second, the additional thrust generated by the platform does increase aerodynamic lift. Third, the increase in aerodynamic lift offsets the higher weight of the platform, significantly improving payload capacity. The effect of varying operational payload and flight time for different mixed mode operating conditions was predicted, and the trade-off between the operational payload and operating conditions for mixed mode propulsion was characterized. Flight tests revealed the improved agility of the platform when used with static placement of the wings for various aerobatic maneuvers, such as gliding, diving, or loops.
Trelliswork and Craquelure
Authors: Koenderink Jan , van Doorn Andrea , Wagemans Johan
Published: October 2017

Consider a mosaic image, the edges of the tesseræ being unrelated to pictorial content. Depending upon grout color, the picture is seen as uninterrupted “behind bars” or divided into tiles by “cracks” as in an ancient oil painting. The phenomenology is explored.
Scleroderma Renal Crisis in Mixed Connective Tissue Disease With Full Renal Recovery Within 3 Months: A Case Report With Expanding Treatment Modalities to Treat Each Clinical Sign as an Independent Entity
Authors: Cheta Jordana , Rijhwani Suresh , Rust Harlan
Published: October 2017

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a rheumatologic overlap syndrome that can present with symptoms of systemic lupus erythematous, scleroderma, and polymyositis. A severe but rare complication that can occur in MCTD is scleroderma renal crisis. With multiple poor prognostic indicators, the renal outcome is usually poor. The clinical and histological picture is one of a thrombotic microangiopathy. Clinical suspicion has to be high for additional thrombotic or autoimmune processes coexisting due to associated morbidity. In this article, we report a rare case of scleroderma renal crisis in a patient with MCTD who we treated with plasma exchange for clinical suspicion for an underlying thrombotic thrombocytopenia and mycophenolate mofetil for MCTD. The patient had multiple poor prognostic indicators yet made a full renal recovery in less than 3 months.
Autoimmune Pancreatitis Type 2: Case Report
Authors: Onweni Chidinma , Balagoni Harika , Treece Jennifer M. , Addo Yobo Emmanuel , Patel Archi , Phemister Jennifer , Srinath Manoj , Young Mark F.
Published: October 2017

A middle-aged man presents with acute pancreatitis of unknown etiology and is found to have a presentation consistent with the diagnosis of type 2 autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP). AIP is a group of rare heterogeneous diseases that are challenging to diagnose. There are 2 types of AIP. Type 1 disease is the more common worldwide than type 2 AIP. While type 1 AIP is associated with IgG4-positive antibodies, type 2 AIP is IgG4 antibody negative. Both types of AIP are responsive to corticosteroid treatment. Although type 1 AIP has more extrapancreatic manifestations and more commonly relapses, this is a case of a patient with type 2 AIP with inflammatory bowel disease and relapsing course.
Chd7 deficiency delays leukemogenesis in mice induced by Cbfb-MYH11
Authors: Zhen Tao , Kwon Erika M. , Zhao Ling , Hsu Jingmei , Hyde R. Katherine , Lu Ying , Alemu Lemlem , Speck Nancy A. , Liu P. Paul
Published: October 2017

Key Points

CHD7 interacts with CBFβ-SMMHC through RUNX1 and modulates their gene expression regulation. CHD7 is important for CBFB-MYH11 leukemogenesis in the mouse model.
Platelet interaction with activated endothelium: mechanistic insights from microfluidics
Authors: Coenen Daniëlle M. , Mastenbroek Tom G. , Cosemans Judith M. E. M.
Published: October 2017

Traditionally, in vitro flow chamber experiments and in vivo arterial thrombosis studies have been proved to be of vital importance to elucidate the mechanisms of platelet thrombus formation after vessel wall injury. In recent years, it has become clear that platelets also act as modulators of inflammatory processes, such as atherosclerosis. A key element herein is the complex cross talk between platelets, the coagulation system, leukocytes, and the activated endothelium. This review provides insight into the platelet-endothelial interface, based on in vitro flow chamber studies and cross referenced with in vivo thrombosis studies. The main mechanisms of platelet interaction with the activated endothelium encompass (1) platelet rolling via interaction of platelet glycoprotein Ib-IX-V with endothelial-released von Willebrand factor with a supporting role for the P-selectin/P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 axis, followed by (2) firm platelet adhesion to the endothelium via interaction of platelet αIIbβ3 with endothelial αvβ3 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1, and (3) a stimulatory role for thrombin, the thrombospondin-1/CD36 axis and cyclooxygenase 1 in subsequent platelet activation and stable thrombus formation. In addition, the molecular mechanisms underlying the stimulatory effect of platelets on leukocyte transendothelial migration, a key mediator of atheroprogression, are discussed. Throughout the review, emphasis is placed on recommendations for setting up, reporting, interpreting, and comparing endothelial-lined flow chamber studies and suggestions for future studies.
Efficacy of venetoclax as targeted therapy for relapsed/refractory t(11;14) multiple myeloma
Authors: Kumar Shaji , Kaufman Jonathan L. , Gasparetto Cristina , Mikhael Joseph , Vij Ravi , Pegourie Brigitte , Benboubker Lofti , Facon Thierry , Amiot Martine , Moreau Philippe , Punnoose Elizabeth A. , Alzate Stefanie , Dunbar Martin , Xu Tu , Agarwal Suresh K. , Enschede Sari Heitner , Leverson Joel D. , Ross Jeremy A. , Maciag Paulo C. , Verdugo Maria , Touzeau Cyrille
Published: October 2017

Key Points

Venetoclax monotherapy at a daily dose up to 1200 mg has an acceptable safety profile in patients with relapsed/refractory MM. Venetoclax monotherapy has demonstrated antimyeloma activity in patients with relapsed/refractory MM positive for t(11;14).
Novel approaches to hemophilia therapy: successes and challenges
Authors: Arruda Valder R. , Doshi Bhavya S. , Samelson-Jones Benjamin J.
Published: October 2017

New therapies for hemophilia A and hemophilia B will likely continue to change clinical practice. Ranging from extended half-life to nonfactor products and gene therapy, these innovative approaches have the potential to enhance the standard of care by decreasing infusion frequency to increase compliance, promoting prophylaxis, offering alternatives to inhibitor patients, and easing route of administration. Each category has intrinsic challenges that may limit the broader application of these promising therapies. To date, none specifically address the challenge of dispersing treatment to the developing world.
Respective contribution of the cephalic neural crest and mesoderm to SIX1-expressing head territories in the avian embryo
Authors: Fonseca Barbara F. , Couly Gérard , Dupin Elisabeth
Published: October 2017

Background

Vertebrate head development depends on a series of interactions between many cell populations of distinct embryological origins. Cranial mesenchymal tissues have a dual embryonic source: - the neural crest (NC), which generates most of craniofacial skeleton, dermis, pericytes, fat cells, and tenocytes; and - the mesoderm, which yields muscles, blood vessel endothelia and some posterior cranial bones. The molecular players that orchestrate co-development of cephalic NC and mesodermal cells to properly construct the head of vertebrates remain poorly understood. In this regard, Six1 gene, a vertebrate homolog of Drosophila Sine Oculis, is known to be required for development of ear, nose, tongue and cranial skeleton. However, the embryonic origin and fate of Six1-expressing cells have remained unclear. In this work, we addressed these issues in the avian embryo model by using quail-chick chimeras, cephalic NC cultures and immunostaining for SIX1.

Results

Our data show that, at early NC migration stages, SIX1 is expressed by mesodermal cells but excluded from the NC cells (NCC). Then, SIX1 becomes widely expressed in NCC that colonize the pre-otic mesenchyme. In contrast, in the branchial arches (BAs), SIX1 is present only in mesodermal cells that give rise to jaw muscles. At later developmental stages, the distribution of SIX1-expressing cells in mesoderm-derived tissues is consistent with a possible role of this factor in the myogenic program of all types of head muscles, including pharyngeal, extraocular and tongue muscles. In NC derivatives, SIX1 is notably expressed in perichondrium and chondrocytes of the nasal septum and in the sclera, although other facial cartilages such as Meckel’s were negative at the stages considered. Moreover, in cephalic NC cultures, chondrocytes and myofibroblasts, not the neural and melanocytic cells express SIX1.

Conclusion

The present results point to a dynamic tissue-specific expression of SIX1 in a variety of cephalic NC- and mesoderm-derived cell types and tissues, opening the way for further analysis of Six1 function in the coordinated development of these two cellular populations during vertebrate head formation.
Etiological factors in hallux valgus, a three‐dimensional analysis of the first metatarsal
Authors: Ota Tomohiko , Nagura Takeo , Kokubo Tetsuro , Kitashiro Masateru , Ogihara Naomichi , Takeshima Kenichiro , Seki Hiroyuki , Suda Yasunori , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya
Published: October 2017

Background

It has been reported that hallux valgus (HV) is associated with axial rotation of the first metatarsal (1MT). However, the association between HV and torsion of the 1MT head with respect to the base has not been previously investigated. The present study examined whether there was a significant difference in 1MT torsion between HV and control groups.

Methods

Three‐dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) scans of 39 ft were obtained, and 3D surface models of the 1MT were generated to quantify the torsion of the head with respect to the base. The HV group consisted of 27 ft from 27 women (69.5 ± 7.5 years old). Only the feet of HV patients with an HV angle >20° on weight‐bearing radiography were selected for analysis. The control group consisted of 12 ft from 12 women (67.7 ± 7.2 years old). In a virtual 3D space, two unit vectors, which describe the orientation of the 1MT head and base, were calculated. The angle formed by these two unit vectors representing 1MT torsion was compared between the control and hallux valgus groups.

Results

The mean (± standard deviation) of the torsional angle of the 1MT was 17.6 (± 7.7)° and 4.7 (± 4.0)° in the HV and control groups, respectively, and the difference was significant (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

This is the first study, to the best of our knowledge, to investigate 1MT torsion in HV patients using CT‐based 3D analysis. The 1MT showed significant eversion in hallux valgus patients compared to control group patients.
Talin regulates integrin β1 dependent and independent cell functions in ureteric bud development
Authors: Mathew Sijo , Palamuttam Riya J. , Mernaugh Glenda , Ramalingam Harini , Lu Zhenwei , Zhang Ming-Zhi , Ishibe Shuta , Critchley David R. , Fässler Reinhard , Pozzi Ambra , Sanders Charles R. , Carroll Thomas J. , Zent Roy
Published: October 2017

Kidney collecting system development requires integrin-dependent cell-extracellular matrix interactions. Integrins, are heterodimeric transmembrane receptors consisting of α and β subunits and critical integrins in the kidney collecting system express the β1subunit. The β1 cytoplasmic tail has two NPxY motifs that mediate functions by binding to cytoplasmic signaling and scaffolding molecules. Talins, scaffolding proteins that bind to the membrane proximal NPxY motif, are proposed to activate integrins and link them to the actin cytoskeleton. We defined the role of talin binding to the β1 proximal NPxY motif in the developing kidney collecting system in mice that selectively express a Y-to-A mutation in this motif. The mice developed a hypoplastic dysplastic collecting system. Collecting duct cells expressing this mutation had moderate abnormalities in cell adhesion, migration, proliferation and growth factor dependent signaling. In contrast, mice lacking talins in the developing ureteric bud developed kidney agenesis and collecting duct cells had severe cytoskeletal, adhesion and polarity defects. Thus, talins are essential for kidney collecting duct development through mechanisms that extend beyond those requiring binding to the β1 integrin subunit NPxY motif.
Graf regulates hematopoiesis through GEEC endocytosis of EGFR
Authors: Kim Sungdae , Nahm Minyeop , Kim Najin , Kwon Yumi , Kim Joohyung , Choi Sukwoo , Choi Eun Young , Shim Jiwon , Lee Cheolju , Lee Seungbok
Published: October 2017

GTPase regulator associated with focal adhesion kinase-1 (Graf1) is an essential component of the GPI-enriched endocytic compartment (GEEC) endocytosis pathway. Mutations in the human graf1 gene are associated with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), but its normal role in myeloid cell development remains unclear. We show that Graf, the Drosophila ortholog of Graf1, is expressed and specifically localizes to GEEC endocytic membranes in macrophage-like plasmatocytes. We also find that loss of Graf impairs GEEC endocytosis, enhances EGFR signaling, and induces a plasmatocyte overproliferation phenotype that requires the EGFR signaling cascade. Mechanistically, Graf-dependent GEEC endocytosis serves as a major route of EGFR internalization at high, but not low, doses of the predominant Drosophila EGFR ligand Spitz (Spi) and is indispensable for efficient EGFR degradation and signal attenuation. Finally, Graf interacts directly with EGFR in a receptor ubiquitination-dependent manner, suggesting a mechanism by which Graf promotes GEEC endocytosis of EGFR at high Spi. Based on our findings, we propose a model in which Graf functions to downregulate EGFR signaling by facilitating Spi-induced receptor internalization through GEEC endocytosis, thereby restraining plasmatocyte proliferation.
Myc cooperates with beta-catenin to drive gene expression in the nephron progenitor cells
Authors: Pan Xinchao , Karner Courtney M. , Carroll Thomas J.
Published: October 2017

For organs to achieve their proper size, the processes of stem cell renewal and differentiation must be tightly regulated. We previously showed that in the developing kidney, Wnt9b regulates distinct beta-catenin-dependent transcriptional programs in the renewing and differentiating populations of the nephron progenitor cells. How beta-catenin stimulated these two distinct programs was unclear. Here, we show that beta-catenin cooperates with the transcription factor Myc to activate the progenitor renewal program. Although in multiple contexts Myc is a target of beta-catenin, our characterization of a cell type specific enhancer for the Wnt9b/beta-catenin target gene Fam19a5 shows that Myc and beta-catenin cooperate to activate gene expression controlled by this element. This appears to be a more general phenomenon as we find that Myc is required for the expression of every Wnt9b/beta-catenin progenitor renewal target assessed as well as for proper nephron endowment in vivo. This study suggests that within the developing kidney, tissue-specific beta-catenin activity is regulated by cooperation with cell type-specific transcription factors. This finding not only provides insight into the regulation of beta-catenin target genes in the developing kidney, but will also advance our understanding of progenitor cell renewal in other cell types/organ systems where Myc and beta-catenin are coexpressed.
A functional analysis of TOEFAZ1 uncovers protein domains essential for cytokinesis in Trypanosoma brucei
Authors: Sinclair-Davis Amy N. , McAllaster Michael R. , de Graffenried Christopher L.
Published: October 2017

The parasite Trypanosoma brucei is highly polarized, including a flagellum that is attached along the cell surface by the flagellum attachment zone (FAZ). During cell division, the new FAZ positions the cleavage furrow, which ingresses from the anterior tip of the cell towards the posterior. We recently identified TOEFAZ1 (for ‘Tip of the Extending FAZ protein 1’) as an essential protein in trypanosome cytokinesis. Here, we analyzed the localization and function of TOEFAZ1 domains by performing overexpression and RNAi complementation experiments. TOEFAZ1 comprises three domains with separable functions: an N-terminal α-helical domain that may be involved in FAZ recruitment, a central intrinsically disordered domain that keeps the morphogenic kinase TbPLK at the new FAZ tip, and a C-terminal zinc finger domain necessary for TOEFAZ1 oligomerization. Both the N-terminal and C-terminal domains are essential for TOEFAZ1 function, but TbPLK retention at the FAZ is not necessary for cytokinesis. The feasibility of alternative cytokinetic pathways that do not employ TOEFAZ1 are also assessed. Our results show that TOEFAZ1 is a multimeric scaffold for recruiting proteins that control the timing and location of cleavage furrow ingression.
Pib2 and the EGO complex are both required for activation of TORC1
Authors: Varlakhanova Natalia V. , Mihalevic Michael J. , Bernstein Kara A. , Ford Marijn G. J.
Published: October 2017

The TORC1 complex is a key regulator of cell growth and metabolism in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The vacuole-associated EGO complex couples activation of TORC1 to the availability of amino acids, specifically glutamine and leucine. The EGO complex is also essential for reactivation of TORC1 following rapamycin-induced growth arrest and for its distribution on the vacuolar membrane. Pib2, a FYVE-containing phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PI3P)-binding protein, is a newly discovered and poorly characterized activator of TORC1. Here, we show that Pib2 is required for reactivation of TORC1 following rapamycin-induced growth arrest. Pib2 is required for EGO complex-mediated activation of TORC1 by glutamine and leucine as well as for redistribution of Tor1 on the vacuolar membrane. Therefore, Pib2 and the EGO complex cooperate to activate TORC1 and connect phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling and TORC1 activity.
cAMP signaling mediates behavioral flexibility and consolidation of social status inDrosophilaaggression
Authors: Chouhan Nitin Singh , Mohan Krithika , Ghose Aurnab
Published: October 2017

Social rituals, like male-male aggression in Drosophila, are often stereotyped and the component behavioral patterns modular. The likelihood of transition from one behavioral pattern to another is malleable by experience and confers flexibility to the behavioral repertoire. Experience-dependent modification of innate aggressive behavior in flies alters fighting strategies during fights and establishes dominant-subordinate relationships. Dominance hierarchies resulting from agonistic encounters are consolidated to longer lasting social status-dependent behavioral modifications resulting in a robust loser effect.

We show that cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) dynamics regulated by the calcium/calmodulin-dependent adenylyl cyclase, Rut and the cAMP phosphodiesterase, Dnc but not the Amn gene product, in specific neuronal groups of the mushroom body and central complex, mediate behavioral plasticity necessary to establish dominant-subordinate relationships. rut and dnc mutant flies are unable to alter fighting strategies and establish dominance relationships during agonistic interactions. This real-time flexibility during a fight is independent of changes in aggression levels. Longer-term consolidation of social status in the form of a loser effect, however, requires additional Amn-dependent inputs to cAMP signaling and involves a circuit-level association between the α/β and γ neurons of the mushroom body.

Our findings implicate cAMP signaling in mediating plasticity of behavioral patterns in aggressive behavior and in the generation of a temporally stable memory trace that manifests as a loser effect.
Polish adaptation of the Young Schema Questionnaire 3 Short Form (YSQ-S3-PL)
Authors: Oettingen Justyna , Chodkiewicz Jan , Mącik Dorota , Gruszczyńska Ewa
Published: October 2017

Cel pracy

Celem przeprowadzonego badania była polska adaptacja Kwestionariusza Schematów Younga YSQ-S3-PL. Kwestionariusz jest metodą samoopisową, przeznaczoną do pomiaru 18 nieadaptacyjnych schematów.

Metoda

Przebadano 1529 osób (927 kobiet i 585 mężczyzn) z populacji nieklinicznej. Wiek badanych mieścił się w przedziale 18-85 lat, średnia wieku wyniosła 32 lata.

Wyniki

Po przeprowadzeniu walidacji językowej oceniono spójność wewnętrzną narzędzia. Alfa Cronbacha wyniosła od 0,62 (Roszczenia/wyższość) do 0,81 (Porażka), zaś dla wyniku ogólnego 0,96. Eksploracyjna analiza czynnikowa nie odtworzyła dokładnie 18-czynnikowej struktury zaproponowanej przez Younga. Najlepszym rozwiązaniem było 8 czynników ładowanych przez itemy spójne treściowo. Analiza konfirmacyjna również nie w pełni wsparła teoretyczny model Younga. Z kilku testowanych modeli najlepiej dopasowany do danych był model podwójnego czynnika (jeden czynnik wspólny i skorelowane czynniki specyficzne – schematy). Zgodnie z tym modelem wariancja schematów wyjaśniana jest jednocześnie przez czynnik wspólny i specyficzne. Czynnik wspólny najsilniej wyjaśnia wariancję schematu Ułomność, zaś najsłabiej – Samopoświęcenia. Analiza trafności konwergencyjnej wskazuje pozytywne, ale umiarkowane korelacje ze skalami mierzącymi psychopatologię, co jest zbieżne z teorią. Podobnie, negatywne korelacje z miarami dobrego samopoczucia potwierdzają trafność dywergencyjną.

Wnioski

Polska adaptacja kwestionariusza YSQ-S3 jest psychometrycznie podobna do innych wersji językowych i charakteryzuje się akceptowalną rzetelnością i trafnością teoretyczną. Wyniki pozwalają zarekomendować metodę do badań naukowych. Stosowanie w praktyce terapeutycznej wymaga ostrożności – w diagnozie klinicznej wyniki należy traktować jako wspierające a nie rozstrzygające. Potrzebne są dalsze badania dotyczące oceny trafności diagnostycznej.
Clinical Decision‐Making: Observing the Smartphone User, an Observational Study in Predicting Acute Surgical Patients' Suitability for Discharge
Authors: Hoffmann Richard , Harley Simon , Ellison Samuel , Devitt Peter G.
Published: October 2017

INTRODUCTION

An accurate and rapid assessment of an acutely unwell patient's clinical status is paramount for the physician. There is an increasing trend to rely on investigations and results to inform a clinician of a patient's clinical status, with the subtleties of clinical observation often ignored. The aim of this study was to determine if a patient's use of a smartphone during the initial clinical assessment by a surgical consultant could be used as a surrogate marker for patient well‐being, represented as their suitability for same‐day discharge.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study performed over 2 periods at a tertiary hospital in South Australia. All patients admitted by junior surgical doctors from the emergency department to the acute surgical unit were eligible for inclusion. Upon consultant review, their status as a smartphone user was recorded in addition to their duration of hospital stay and basic demographic data. All patients and all but 1 of the consultants were blinded to the trial.

RESULTS

Two hundred and twenty‐one patients were eligible for inclusion. Of these patients, 11.3% were observed to be using a smartphone and 23.5% of patients were discharged home on day 1. Those who were observed to be using a smartphone were 5.29 times more likely to be discharged home on day 1 and were less likely to be subsequently readmitted.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of the smartphone sign to a surgeon's clinical acumen can provide yet another tool in aiding the decision for suitability for discharge.
Adventitious Shoot Organogenesis and Plant Regeneration from Internode Explants of Paederia foetida L.:A Valuable Medicinal Plant
Authors: Behera Biswaranjan , Behera Shashikanta , Jena Padan K. , Barik Durga P. , Naik Soumendra K.
Published: October 2017

ABSTRACT: A plant regeneration protocol via adventitious shoot organogenesis from internode explants of Paederia foetida (Skunk vine) is reported here for the first time. Three explants (leaf, mature internode and internode derived from axenic shoot cultures) were tested for shoot organogenesis. Leaf explants failed to induce adventitious shoots whereas axenic internode explant was found to be superior to mature internode explants for the induction of adventitious shoots. Axenic internode explants cultured on MS medium supplemented with 3.0 mg/l BAP showed maximum (86.7 %; 10.4 shoots per explant) adventitious shoot organogenesis. The regenerated shoots were best rooted (90 %; 14 roots per shoot) on half-strength MS medium. Eighty percent of the rooted shoots were successfully acclimatized in soil: sand (1:1) mixture. All these acclimatized plants were successfully transferred to larger pots containing garden soil and subsequently established in the field.