bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Serum Level of IL-1B Correlates with the Activity of Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis
Authors: Zhan Mengling , Xu Benyong , Zhao Lan , Li Bing , Xu Liyun , Sun Qiuhong , Zhang Jun , Zhang Zhemin , Chu Haiqing
Published: September 2018

Background. Until now, there have been no objective criteria to determine the activity of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA). This study aims to analyze the correlation between serum level of IL-1B and the activity of CPA and to determine whether serum IL-1B could be used to assess the activity of CPA. Methods. A total of 469 newly diagnosed CPA patients were enrolled. Correlation analysis in the whole subjects showed that only IL-1B level was associated with the activity of CPA. Then, 381 cases with factors significantly affecting IL-1B expression was excluded through multiple linear regression; the remaining 88 patients were divided into high IL-1B group and low IL-1B group, according to the median value of serum IL-1B, for subgroup analysis. A retrospective comparative analysis was subsequently performed between the two groups, including the clinical manifestation, microbiology and laboratory tests results, and imaging findings. We further investigated the relationship between IL-1B levels and CT characteristic which acted as the indicator of CPA activity, as well as changes in IL-1B level before and after surgery. Results. For all patients, correlation analysis revealed that IL-1B level correlated with both cavitary diameter (P=0.035) and aspergilloma size (P<0.047) but not with the thickness of the cavity (P=0.479). In subgroup comparative analysis, CT characteristics suggested that high activity of CPA, such as cavitary (27/44 vs 13/44, P=0.003) and aspergilloma lesions (25/44 vs. 11/44, P<0.002), were more frequently found in high IL-1B group. The cavity diameter (P<0.001), aspergilloma size (P=0.006), and cavity wall thickness (P=0.023) were significantly different between the two groups. When Spearman correlation analysis was performed once again in subgroup, an even stronger relationship of serum IL-1B with the cavity diameter (Rs=0.501, P=0.002) and aspergilloma size (Rs=0.615, P=0.001) was observed. Interestingly, a significant reduction of IL-1B level was observed after successful resection of CPA lesions. Conclusion. Higher level of serum IL-1B is associated with more severe cavitary and aspergilloma lesions, which are indicative of more active CPA. In addition, IL-1B level reduced accordingly after lesion resection. Measuring IL-1B level therefore could be served as a convenient method to monitor the activity of CPA and be a potential predictive/prognostic marker for treatment response.
Plastic Bronchitis in an AIDS Patient with Pulmonary Kaposi Sarcoma
Authors: Habib Sheila A. , Vasko Robert C. , Badawy Jack , Anstead Gregory M.
Published: September 2018

Plastic bronchitis is the expectoration of bronchial casts in the mold of the tracheobronchial tree. It is a rare occurrence of unknown etiology that has been primarily described in children with congenital heart disease. In this case report, we present the first reported case of plastic bronchitis in a patient with pulmonary Kaposi sarcoma and underlying HIV infection.
microRNA-203 Modulates Wound Healing and Scar Formation via Suppressing Hes1 Expression in Epidermal Stem Cells
Authors: Zhou Ziheng , Shu Bin , Xu Yingbin , Liu Jian , Wang Peng , Chen Lei , Zhao Jingling , Liu Xusheng , Qi Shaohai , Xiong Kun , Wu Jun , Xie Julin
Published: September 2018

Background/Aims: Little is known how miR-203 is involved in epidermal stem cells (ESCs) differentiation and scar formation. Methods: We first used luciferase assay to determine the interaction of miR-203 with the 3’-UTR in regulation of Hes1 expression. We then used flow cytometry to analyze the effects of miR-203 expression on the differentiation of ESCs to MFB by determination of CK15 ratio and α-SMA. To confirm the results of flow cytometry analysis, we used Western blot to examine the expression of α-SMA, Collagen I (Col I), and Collagen III (Col III), as well as the expression of Notch1, Jagged1, and Hes1 in ESCs after the treatment of pre-miR-203 or anti-miR-203. Finally, we examined the effects local anti-miR-203 treatment on would closure and scar formation using a mouse skin wound model. Results: Pre-miR-203 treatment increased ESCs differentiation to MFB cells, as indicated by decreased CK15 ratio and increased MFB biomarkers. This phenomenon was reversed by overexpression of Hes1 in ESCs. In addition, skin incision increased expression of miR-203 in wound tissue. Local treatment of anti-miR-203 could accelerate wound closure and reduce scar formation in vivo, which was associated with increased re-epithelialization, skin attachment regeneration, and collagen reassignment. Finally, we confirmed that anti-miR-203 treatment could inhibit ESCs differentiation in vivo via increasing Hesl expression. Conclusion: Taken together, our results suggested that overexpression of miR-203 in ESCs after skin wound may be a critical mechanism underlying the scar formation.
N-Acetylcysteine Suppresses LPS-Induced Pathological Angiogenesis
Authors: Zhang Ping , Zhong Shan , Wang Guang , Zhang Shi-yao , Chu Chang , Zeng Shufei , Yan Yu , Cheng Xin , Bao Yongping , Hocher Berthold , Yang Xuesong
Published: September 2018

Background/Aims: Angiogenesis is a key feature during embryo development but is also part of the pathogenesis of cancer in adult life. Angiogenesis might be modulated by inflammation. Methods: We established an angiogenesis model in chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) induced by the exposure of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and analyzed the effects of the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on angiogenesis in this model as well as on the expression of key genes known to involved in the regulation of angiogenesis. Results: Treatment with NAC was able to normalize LPS induced angiogenesis and restore the LPS-induced damage of vascular epithelium in chick CAM. Using quantitative PCR, we showed that NAC administration normalized the LPS induced expression of Keap1-Nrf2 signaling and oxidative stress key enzyme gene expressions (SOD, GPx and YAP1). Conclusion: We established a LPS-induced angiogenesis model in chick CAM. NAC administration could effectively inhibit LPS-induced angiogenesis and restore the integrity of endothelium on chick CAM. LPS exposure caused an increased expression of genes involved in oxidative stress in chick CAM. NAC administration could abolish this effect.
Caveolae Link Ca
V
3.2 Channels to BK
Ca
-Mediated Feedback in Vascular Smooth Muscle
Authors: Hashad Ahmed M. , Harraz Osama F. , Brett Suzanne E. , Romero Monica , Kassmann Mario , Puglisi Jose L. , Wilson Sean M. , Gollasch Maik , Welsh Donald G.
Published: September 2018

Objective—

This study examined whether caveolae position Ca
V
3.2 (T-type Ca2+ channel encoded by the α-3.2 subunit) sufficiently close to RyR (ryanodine receptors) for extracellular Ca
2+
influx to trigger Ca
2+
sparks and large-conductance Ca
2+
-activated K
+
channel feedback.

Approach and Results—

Using smooth muscle cells from mouse mesenteric arteries, the proximity ligation assay confirmed that Ca
V
3.2 reside within 40 nm of caveolin 1, a key caveolae protein. Methyl-β-cyclodextrin, a cholesterol depleting agent that disrupts caveolae, suppressed Ca
V
3.2 activity along with large-conductance Ca
2+
-activated K
+
–mediated spontaneous transient outward currents in cells from C57BL/6 but not Ca
V
3.2
−/−
mice. Genetic deletion of caveolin 1, a perturbation that prevents caveolae formation, also impaired spontaneous transient outward current production but did so without impairing Ca
2+
channel activity, including Ca
V
3.2. These observations indicate a mistargeting of Ca
V
3.2 in caveolin 1
−/−
mice, a view supported by a loss of Ni
2+
-sensitive Ca
2+
spark generation and colocalization signal (Ca
V
3.2-RyR) from the proximity ligation assay. Vasomotor and membrane potential measurements confirmed that cellular disruption of the Ca
V
3.2-RyR axis functionally impaired the ability of large-conductance Ca
2+
-activated K
+
to set tone in pressurized caveolin 1
−/−
arteries.

Conclusions—

Caveolae play a critical role in protein targeting and preserving the close structural relationship between Ca
V
3.2 and RyR needed to drive negative feedback control in resistance arteries.
NOX4 (NADPH Oxidase 4) and Poldip2 (Polymerase δ-Interacting Protein 2) Induce Filamentous Actin Oxidation and Promote Its Interaction With Vinculin During Integrin-Mediated Cell Adhesion
Authors: Vukelic Sasa , Xu Qian , Seidel-Rogol Bonnie , Faidley Elizabeth A. , Dikalova Anna E. , Hilenski Lula L. , Jorde Ulrich , Poole Leslie B. , Lassègue Bernard , Zhang Guogang , Griendling Kathy K.
Published: September 2018

Objective—

Actin cytoskeleton assembly and organization, as a result of focal adhesion (FA) formation during cell adhesion, are dependent on reactive oxygen species and the cellular redox environment. Poldip2 (polymerase δ-interacting protein 2), a novel regulator of NOX4 (NADPH oxidase 4), plays a significant role in reactive oxygen species production and cytoskeletal remodeling. Thus, we hypothesized that endogenous reactive oxygen species derived from Poldip2/NOX4 contribute to redox regulation of actin and cytoskeleton assembly during integrin-mediated cell adhesion.

Approach and Results—

Using vascular smooth muscle cells, we verified that hydrogen peroxide (H
2
O
2
) levels increase during integrin-mediated cell attachment as a result of activation of NOX4. Filamentous actin (F-actin) was oxidized by sulfenylation during cell attachment, with a peak at 3 hours (0.80±0.04 versus 0.08±0.13 arbitrary units at time zero), which was enhanced by overexpression of Poldip2. Depletion of Poldip2 or NOX4 using siRNA, or scavenging of endogenous H
2
O
2
with catalase, inhibited F-actin oxidation by 78±26%, 99±1%, and 98±1%, respectively. To determine the consequence of F-actin oxidation, we examined the binding of F-actin to vinculin, a protein involved in FA complexes that regulates FA maturation. Vinculin binding during cell adhesion as well as migration capacity were inhibited after transfection with actin containing 2 oxidation-resistant point mutations (C272A and C374A). Silencing of Poldip2 or NOX4 also impaired actin–vinculin interaction, which disturbed maturation of FAs and inhibited cell migration.

Conclusions—

These results suggest that integrin engagement during cell attachment activates Poldip2/Nox4 to oxidize actin, which modulates FA assembly.
From Syria to the Land Down Under – the Land of Opportunity?
Authors: Birdthistle Naomi , Flynn Antoinette , Rushworth Susan
Published: September 2018

Ethnic entrepreneurship has emerged as an economic, societal, and political panacea to the growing number of refugees on the move across the globe. Employing the 2014 World Economic Forum framework, this article seeks to explore the Australian entrepreneurship ecosystem, to determine whether it is enabling migrants and/or refugees to become entrepreneurs with a focus on Syrian refugees. At its core, the Australian entrepreneurship ecosystem is comparatively strong in terms of human capital, accessible markets, and finance. Even within the three ‘core’ characteristics of the ecosystem, the Australian ecosystem falls short when examined through the lens of refugee entrepreneurs. Recommendations under the 2014 World Economic Forum framework are made that will assist key stakeholders in developing an entrepreneurial ecosystem.
‘The Malicious Arya’? Pundit Lekhramjī’s Portrayal of Christianity in the 19th Century South Asia
Authors: Singh David Emmanuel
Published: September 2018

This paper focusses on the first two volumes of Pundit Lekhramji’s collected works, kulliyat. Its main argument is that contrary to the position of Ahmadis and secondary scholarship, Lekhram did not deserve to be labelled ‘malicious’ or a ‘radical’ principally responsible for communalism. Jones is a fine scholar, but he may have allowed the perspective particularly rife among Ahmadis to colour his view of Lekhram. Besides, his view of Lekhram was only partial in that it relied largely on the material which forms part of volume 3 of kulliyat. What drove Lekhram was a need he saw for ‘pastoral’ support for the supposed ‘insiders’ – the protection of a reimagined Hindu community (which included local converts to Christianity) from what he saw as the sustained campaigns of proselytization and polemical tracts. The intent was not necessarily to dialogue with Christian missionaries or padres but to persuade Indian converts to Christianity to ‘return home’. Lekhram’s attempts at ‘exposing’ Christianity however remained equally superficial as the padres’. However, in so doing he was not blind to issues in his own scriptures/traditions, something that requires another paper to elaborate
Hybridity in Asian Christian Discourse: Critical Issues from Asian Christian Experience
Authors: Francisco Jose Mario C.
Published: September 2018

This study explores the crossing over of the concept of hybridity from cultural studies to theological discourse with particular reference to Asian Christianity. The first section focuses on the emergence and currency of the concept in relation to different historical waves of globalization, and the second, on the concept of hybridity itself and its conceptual characteristics. The third discusses how hybridity sheds light on Asian Christianity’s encounter with cultures and religious traditions. It further uncovers critical issues involving the inherent struggle for and within inculturation and the nature of Christianity’s borders. Asian Christian theological discourse on these issues underscores nuances in religious hybridity that support transformative praxis and which may be overlooked in other contexts.
Christian Themes and the Role of the Nāyikā in Bharatanāṭyam
Authors: Zubko Katherine C.
Published: September 2018

Within the Indian classical dance style of bharatanāṭyam, performers traditionally embody the stories of Hindu gods and goddesses. This paper discusses selected examples of how Christian themes have been incorporated into the art form by both Hindu and non-Hindu participants, including the adaptation of the aesthetics of the nāyikā, a female heroine yearning for her absent beloved. In an extended case study, I examine the presentation of one such unique nāyikā, a Christian Indian woman who contracts HIV from her husband, in particular demonstrating how various gesture sequences draw upon the recognizable, empathetic foundation of the suffering heroine to depict the realities of the illness of HIV. The despair and pain of the nāyikā, and the role of a sakhī as sympathetic doctor, invite audiences into a familiar aesthetic framework that also creates receptivity towards a significant social critique.
The Art of Music in Asian Christianity
Authors: Grüter Verena
Published: September 2018

From the very beginning, music has played an important role in shaping the theological and spiritual identity of Christian churches in Asia. While the topic of music and spirituality has been addressed practically and in musical theory, the question of Christian identity through music has attracted seemingly very little attention in theological research. By way of example, this paper discusses six types of Christian music styles in Asia and analyses their connection with theological identities of the respective communities.
Widowhood and Religious Perception
Authors: Pieris Rasika
Published: September 2018

This article is based on the author’s doctoral thesis, Breaking the Barriers: A Reflection on Suffering in Buddhism and Christianity in the Perspectives of War-widows in Sri Lanka.
1
Using theoretical and empirical lines of investigation it attempts to discover the theological possibilities, challenges and relevance of the survival strategies of Buddhist and Christian war-widows by critically describing, analysing, interpreting and exploring an inter-relatedness in their situations, and relating these findings to existing systematic theological concepts. Since the research is also empirical, it includes fieldwork done with a selected group of Buddhist and Christian war-widows – Tamil Christian, Sinhala Christian and Sinhala Buddhist – in post-war Sri Lanka. These women are from different social, religious, political, cultural, economic and educational backgrounds in select provinces of Sri Lanka. The theological research is partly based on interviews, dialogues with unheard voices, and a critical analysis of the daily experiences of widows –‘everydayness’,
2
which help to reflect both on the notion of suffering in Buddhist and Christian thinking that is different, and on their influence on the perception of widows and their suffering.
A new species of genus Neoaloa Singh & Kirti, 2015 from Bihar, India (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae: Arctiini)
Authors: SINGH NAVNEET , JOSHI RAHUL , AHMAD JALIL
Published: September 2018

A new species, Neoaloa cernyi Singh & Joshi, sp. nov. is described from Gular-Ghat of Valmiki Tiger Reserve, Bihar, India. Additionally, the original combination of Aloa collaris Hampson, 1891, comb. rev. is restored.
Recent Third Pole’s Rapid Warming Accompanies Cryospheric Melt and Water Cycle Intensification and Interactions between Monsoon and Environment: Multidisciplinary Approach with Observations, Modeling, and Analysis
Authors: Yao Tandong , Xue Yongkang , Chen Deliang , Chen Fahu , Thompson Lonnie , Cui Peng , Koike Toshio , Lau William K.-M. , Lettenmaier Dennis , Mosbrugger Volker , Zhang Renhe , Xu Baiqing , Dozier Jeff , Gillespie Thomas , Gu Yu , Kang Shichang , Piao Shilong , Sugimoto Shiori , Ueno Kenichi , Wang Lei , Wang Weicai , Zhang Fan , Sheng Yongwei , Guo Weidong , Ailikun  , Yang Xiaoxin , Ma Yaoming , Shen Samuel S. P. , Su Zhongbo , Chen Fei , Liang Shunlin , Liu Yimin , Singh Vijay P. , Yang Kun , Yang Daqing , Zhao Xinquan , Qian Yun , Zhang Yu , Li Qian
Published: September 2018

The Third Pole (TP) is experiencing rapid warming and is currently in its warmest period in the past 2,000 years. This paper reviews the latest development in multidisciplinary TP research associated with this warming. The rapid warming facilitates intense and broad glacier melt over most of the TP, although some glaciers in the northwest are advancing. By heating the atmosphere and reducing snow/ice albedo, aerosols also contribute to the glaciers melting. Glacier melt is accompanied by lake expansion and intensification of the water cycle over the TP. Precipitation has increased over the eastern and northwestern TP. Meanwhile, the TP is greening and most regions are experiencing advancing phenological trends, although over the southwest there is a spring phenological delay mainly in response to the recent decline in spring precipitation. Atmospheric and terrestrial thermal and dynamical processes over the TP affect the Asian monsoon at different scales. Recent evidence indicates substantial roles that mesoscale convective systems play in the TP’s precipitation as well as an association between soil moisture anomalies in the TP and the Indian monsoon. Moreover, an increase in geohazard events has been associated with recent environmental changes, some of which have had catastrophic consequences caused by glacial lake outbursts and landslides. Active debris flows are growing in both frequency of occurrences and spatial scale. Meanwhile, new types of disasters, such as the twin ice avalanches in Ali in 2016, are now appearing in the region. Adaptation and mitigation measures should be taken to help societies’ preparation for future environmental challenges. Some key issues for future TP studies are also discussed.
The Duality of Human Experience: Perspectives From Psychosocial Adaptation to Chronic Illness and Disability—Historical Views and Theoretical Models
Authors: Livneh Hanoch , McMahon Brian T. , Rumrill Phillip D.
Published: September 2018

This article examines the current views on the duality of the human experience as portrayed within the process of coping with and managing traumatic life events, with a special emphasis on those views associated with the onset, or diagnosis, of chronic illnesses and disabilities (CID). In this article, experiential dualities are reviewed with a focus on (a) broadly defined modes of psychosocial adaptation to CID, such as coping versus succumbing, and disabled versus nondisabled selves; (b) models of denial, which often dichotomize its structure as reflecting complete or major versus partial or minor denial; and (c) models of personal growth following adversity and traumatic events, such as the onset or diagnosis of severe and life-threatening CID. Focus is placed on the dualities that dichotomize human functioning following traumatic experiences, along such categories as genuine or transcendent growth versus self-deception or illusory growth.
Differentiating between Testicular Toxicity and Sexual Immaturity in Ortho-phthalaldehyde Inhalation Toxicity Studies in Rats and Mice
Authors: Catlin Natasha R. , Willson Cynthia J. , Creasy Dianne M. , Rao Deepa B. , Kissling Grace E. , McIntyre Barry S. , Wyde Michael
Published: September 2018

Early deaths of young or juvenile animals (before sexual maturation is achieved) in routine regulatory safety studies present pathologists and toxicologists with the challenge of interpreting findings in the male reproductive tract. Additionally, the advent of toxicity testing regulations has resulted in a growing need for the use of juvenile animals in toxicology studies. Here, we present the reproductive toxicity findings from a 13-week inhalation toxicity study with ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA) in male rats and mice as a case example for working through this challenging task. In this study with OPA, survival was significantly reduced in the two highest exposure concentrations of OPA tested. Early deaths and histopathological lesions in the testes and epididymides were generally also limited to these two highest exposure groups. Therefore, there was concern that peripubertal morphological features could be a confounding factor for the histopathological evaluation of exposure-related testicular and epididymal findings. Although it can be difficult to differentiate exposure-related effects from the normal morphological features defining peripubertal changes in the testes and epididymides in animals that die early in a toxicity study, the use of age-matched controls in this case study with OPA provided a reference and aided in the differentiation of these effects.
Effects From Continuous Infusions of Dexmedetomidine and Propofol on Hemodynamic Stability in Critically Ill Adult Patients With Septic Shock
Authors: Nelson Kristen M. , Patel Gourang P. , Hammond Drayton A.
Published: September 2018

Purpose:

To compare the development of clinically significant hemodynamic event (ie, hypotension or bradycardia) in adults with septic shock receiving either propofol or dexmedetomidine.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective cohort study of adults with septic shock admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) at an academic medical center between July 2013 and July 2017.

Results:

Patients in the propofol (n = 35) and dexmedetomidine (n = 37) groups developed a clinically significant hemodynamic event at similar frequencies (31.4 vs 29.7%, P = .99). All patients with an event experienced hypotension, whereas 2 (5.4%) patients in the dexmedetomidine group also experienced bradycardia. Most patients in both groups (70% vs 90%) received an escalating sedative dose, and almost half (42.9%) in the dexmedetomidine group had the sedative dosage increased more frequently than every 30 minutes. Patients in both groups had similar ICU (24.1 vs 24.3 days, P = .98) and hospital (37.9 vs 29.7 days, P = .29) lengths of stay. There was no difference in median time to hemodynamic event between the groups (propofol 1 hour [interquartile range, IQR: 0.5-9.9] vs dexmedetomidine 2 hours [IQR: 1.5-11.1 hours], P = .85).

Conclusion:

Patients with septic shock receiving propofol or dexmedetomidine experienced similar rates of clinically significant hemodynamic events. Most patients did not experience an event and those who did most frequently did so in the first couple of hours of therapy.
A Comparative Cephalometric Study of Nasoalveolar Molding– and Non-Nasoalveolar Molding–Treated Bilateral Cleft Patients at Early Mixed Dentition Period
Authors: Nayak Tulasi , Bonanthaya Krishnamurthy , Parmar Renu , Shetty Pritham N. , Rao Dipesh D.
Published: September 2018

Objective:

To evaluate and compare early maxillary growth in 2 groups of patients with repaired bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) who had and had not received nasoalveolar molding (NAM) therapy in infancy.

Hypothesis:

Nasoalveolar molding does not have any effect on maxillomandibular growth at the early mixed dentition period.

Design:

Retrospective study.

Patients:

The study group consisted of forty-two 7-year-old patients with BCLP—20 in the NAM group and 22 in the no-NAM group. The control group consisted of nineteen 7-year-old noncleft, normal patients.

Interventions:

Nasoalveolar molding was carried out prior to surgeries in those children who were brought in within 8 weeks of birth. Children brought in later were treated without a presurgical intervention. All patients were treated with a single-stage modified Millard cheiloplasty without gingivoperiosteoplasty. Palatoplasty was done by single-stage Bardach palatoplasty with muscle repositioning.

Mean Outcome Measures:

Hard tissue and dental cephalometric values measured on lateral cephalograms, recorded at 7 years of age.

Results:

A comparison of the mean sagittal values showed a statistically significant maxillomandibular retrusion and incisor retroclination of both BCLP groups in comparison to the control group. None of the cephalometric parameters varied statistically between NAM and no-NAM groups. The maxillomandibular relation, lower face height ratio, mandibular plane, and mandibular axis angles did not show statistically significant difference between all 3 groups.

Conclusions:

On the basis of this study, NAM does not have any effect on maxillomandibular growth at the early mixed dentition period.
ACTB and SDHA Are Suitable Endogenous Reference Genes for Gene Expression Studies in Human Astrocytomas Using Quantitative RT-PCR
Authors: Röhn Gabriele , Koch Arend , Krischek Boris , Stavrinou Pantelis , Goldbrunner Roland , Timmer Marco
Published: September 2018

Background:

Quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction is frequently used as research tool in experimental oncology. There are some studies of valid endogenous control genes in the field of human glioma research, which, however, only focus on the comparison between normal brain with tumor tissue and malignant transformation toward secondary glioblastomas. Aim of this study was to validate a more general reference gene also suitable for pre- and posttreatment analysis and other evaluations (eg, primary vs secondary glioblastoma).

Methods:

This quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis was performed to test a panel of the 6 most suitable reference genes from other studies representing different physiological pathways (ACTB, GAPDH, POLR2A, RPL13A, SDHA, and TBP) in all common glioma groups, namely: diffuse astrocytoma World Health Organization II, anaplastic astrocytoma World Health Organization III, secondary glioblastoma World Health Organization IV with and without chemotherapy, primary glioblastoma, recurrent glioblastoma, and gliomas before and after radiation. Expression stability was tested during the longitudinal course of the disease in 8 single patients.

Results:

Evaluation of the expression levels of the 6 target genes showed that ACTB, GAPDH, and RPL13A show higher expression compared to SDHA, POLR2A, and TBP. ACTB, GAPDH, and RPL13A showed different expression levels between astrozytoma grade II and primary glioblastoma. Except for this difference, the candidate genes were not differentially expressed between primary and secondary glioblastomas and between the World Health Organization tumor grades. Furthermore, they remained stable before and after radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. Therefore, they are adequate references for glioblastoma gene expression studies. The comparison of all tested genes resulted in SDHA and ACTB as most stable reference genes determined by the NormFinder software. Our data revealed lowest intragroup variation in the SDHA, highest in the RPL13A gene.

Conclusions:

All tested genes may be recommended as universal reference genes for data normalization in gene expression studies under different treatment regimens both in primary glioblastomas and astrocytomas of different grades (World Health Organization grades II-IV), respectively. In summary, ACTB and SDHA exhibited the best stability values and showed the lowest intergroup expression variability.
Bone Morphogenetic Protein Glass Bottom Boat (BMP5/6/7/8) and its receptor Wishful Thinking (BMPRII) are required for injury-induced allodynia in Drosophila
Authors: Gjelsvik Kayla Jane , Follansbee Taylor Leon , Ganter Geoffrey Karl
Published: September 2018

Background

Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide; however, its cellular and molecular mechanisms have not been completely elucidated. It is thought that chronic pain is triggered by nociceptive sensitization, which produces elevated nocifensive responses. A model has been developed in Drosophila melanogaster to investigate the underlying mechanisms of chronic pain using ultraviolet-induced tissue injury to trigger thermal allodynia, a nociceptive hypersensitivity to a normally innocuous stimulus. Larvae were assayed for their behavioral latencies to produce a distinct avoidance response under different thermal conditions. Previously, Decapentaplegic, a member of the Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) family and orthologous to mammalian BMP2/4, was shown to be necessary for the induction of allodynia. Here, we further investigate the BMP pathway to identify other essential molecules necessary to activate the nociceptive sensitization pathway.

Results

Using the GAL4-UAS-RNAi system to induce a cell-specific knockdown of gene expression, we further explored BMP pathway components to identify other key players in the induction of nociceptive sensitization by comparing the responses of manipulated animals to those of controls. Here, we show that a second BMP, Glass Bottom Boat, and its receptor Wishful Thinking are both necessary for injury-induced thermal allodynia since the formation of sensitization was found to be severely attenuated when either of these components was suppressed. The effects on pain perception appear to be specific to the sensitization system, as the ability to respond to a normally noxious stimulus in the absence of injury was left intact, and no nociceptor morphological defects were observed.

Conclusion

These results provide further support of the hypothesis that the BMP pathway plays a crucial role in the development of nociceptive sensitization. Because of its strong conservation between invertebrates and mammals, the BMP pathway may be worthy of future investigation for the development of targeted treatments to alleviate chronic pain.
At close quarters: Combatting Facebook design, features and temporalities in social research
Authors: Gangneux Justine , Docherty Stevie
Published: September 2018

As researchers we often find ourselves grappling with social media platforms and data ‘at close quarters’. Although social media platforms were created for purposes other than academic research – which are apparent in their architecture and temporalities – they offer opportunities for researchers to repurpose them for the collection, generation and analysis of rich datasets. At the same time, this repurposing raises an evolving range of practical and methodological challenges at the small and large scale. We draw on our experiences and empirical data from two research projects, one using Facebook Community Pages and the other repurposing Facebook Activity Logs. This article reflects critically on the specific challenges we faced using these platform features, on their common roots, and the tactics we adopted in response. De Certeau’s distinction between strategy and tactics provides a useful framework for exploring these struggles as located in the practice of doing social research – which often ends up being tactical. This article argues that we have to collectively discuss, demystify and devise tactics to mitigate the strategies and temporalities deeply embedded in platforms, corresponding as far as possible to the temporalities and the aims of our research. Although combat at close quarters is inevitable in social media research, dialogue between researchers is more than ever needed to tip the scales in our favour.
Reduction of Distress Intolerance With Salutotherapeutic Interventions: Results From a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Otto Josephine , Linden Michael
Published: September 2018

Background

Distress tolerance is the ability to pursue one’s goals in the presence of (chronic) stressors, hardship, adversities and negative internal states, and psychological distress. By contrast, distress intolerance is a transdiagnostic indicator of mental illness and a mediator in coping with problems in life, work demands, or stress in general. There is a lack of data regarding intervention strategies. The objective of the present study is to test the differential effects of two treatment approaches: “regeneration fostering” versus “resistance training.”

Methods

Inpatients of a psychosomatic hospital were randomly allocated to either a resistance training group therapy ( n = 65)—that is, active coping with demands and endurance—or a regeneration fostering group therapy ( n = 62)—that is, recovery, mindful indulgence, and creative activities. They were compared with a group of patients who received treatment as usual ( n = 43), without special treatments for distress intolerance, and the outcome was measured with the “Distress Intolerance Scale.” One-way and repeated measure analyses of variance and paired t tests were used for the analysis.

Results

The “regeneration” group showed a significant improvement in distress intolerance, whereas there was no significant change for the treatment-as-usual group and in the “resistance” group. Post hoc tests were conducted with paired sample t tests for pre–post comparisons for each group. No differences were found for the treatment-as-usual group ( mean difference: 0.03, SD (mean difference): 0.89; t(42) = 0.266, p = 0.792, d = 0.04) and for the resistance group ( mean difference:−0.07, SD (mean difference): 0.73; t(63) = −0.736, p = 0.464, d = 0.08). The regeneration group showed a significant decline in distress intolerance ( mean difference: 0.29, SD (mean difference): 0.72; t(61) = 3.156, p = 0.002, d = 0.38).

Conclusions

In the treatment of distress intolerance, it seems promising to focus on positive psychology interventions and resources. Limitations of the study are that it was conducted with psychosomatic inpatients only and that no follow-up data are available.
The Prognostic Significance of Lymph Node Ratio and Log Odds Ratio in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Xinrui , Yu Feng , Zhao Zheng , Mai Junhao , Zhou Yibo , Tan Guojie , Liu Xuekui
Published: September 2018

Objective

To investigate whether lymph node ratio (LNR) and log odds ratio (LODDS) have prognostic significance for overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) in patients with laryngeal squamous cell cancer (LSCC) treated with curative intent.

Study Design

Case‐control study.

Setting

University hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Records of 229 patients with LSCC who underwent surgery with a curative intent with or without adjuvant treatment from 2000 to 2014 were reviewed. The clinicopathological parameters LNR and LODDS were analyzed; univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to evaluate the prognosis of each for OS and DFS.

Results

The 5‐year OS was 81.7% for LNR ≤0.233 and 47.1% for LNR >0.233, and the 5‐year OS was 79.6% for LODDS ≤–0.1 and 51.8% for LODDS >–0.1, respectively. In the univariate analysis, the independent variables were subsites, pT stage (pT1 and pT2 vs pT3 and pT4), pN, pTNM, alcohol consumption, and LNR and LODDS (P <. 05). By multivariate analysis, we determined that subsites, pT stage, alcohol consumption, LNR, and LODDS were independent prognostic predictors of survival (P <. 05). Univariate and multivariate models identified that both LNR and LODDS were significant prognostic factors for survival. However, the hazard ratio (HR) for LNR >0.233 vs ≤0.233 was 8.95 (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.18‐25.16; P <. 001) in OS, and the HR was 11.37 (95% CI, 4.02‐32.15; P <. 001) in DFS. The risk of LNR was noticeably greater than other factors.

Conclusions

LNR and LODDS were both prognostic factors for OS and DFS. However, LNR was confirmed as a more reliable indicator for evaluating the prognosis, and it can be used to increase the prognostic value of the traditional TNM classification of LSCC.
Finding “intermediate” ground in transplant and HLH
Authors: Nikiforow Sarah
Published: September 2018

The Bone Marrow Transplant Clinical Trials Network (BMT CTN) study 1204 of stem cell transplantation for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and primary immunodeficiencies (PID) presented in this issue of Blood by Allen et al emphasizes how far treatment and outcomes in these rare diseases have come but also how important multicenter trials are to find a “sweet spot” in the design of curative regimens.1
CD4/CD8 ratio normalization rates and low ratio as prognostic marker for non-AIDS defining events among long-term virologically suppressed people living with HIV
Authors: Han Win Min , Apornpong Tanakorn , Kerr Stephen J. , Hiransuthikul Akarin , Gatechompol Sivaporn , Do Tanya , Ruxrungtham Kiat , Avihingsanon Anchalee
Published: September 2018

Background

Immune restoration is often incomplete after ART in HIV patients, both quantitatively and qualitatively. We studied the incidence and probability of CD4/CD8 normalization in an adult Thai HIV cohort and explored the predictive value of the ratio for developing of non-AIDS defining events (NAEs).

Methods

We analyzed data from HIV-infected Thai adults between 1996 and 2017 in the HIV-NAT 006 prospective long-term cohort in Bangkok, Thailand. Normalization was defined as CD4/CD8 ratio ≥ 1 on two consecutive visits, and normalization probability was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. NAEs were a composite endpoint including cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases, chronic kidney diseases, non-AIDS defining malignancies and death. Multivariate Cox regression was used to evaluate demographic, disease and treatment characteristics associated with CD4/CD8 ratio normalization and NAEs.

Results

A total of 800 ART-naïve patients with baseline CD4/CD8 ratio of < 0.8 who started combination ART, and had sustained virological suppression were enrolled. Participants were on ART for a median of 8.9 years and virologically suppressed for 6.1 years. The probabilities of CD4/CD8 normalization at 2, 5 and 10 years after virological suppression were 5.1%, 18.6% and 39.1%, respectively. Factors associated with normalization in multivariate analysis were female sex (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.47, 95% CI 1.71–3.56, p < 0.001) and baseline CD4 counts ≥ 350 cells/mm3(HR: 3.62, 95% CI 2.36–5.55), p < 0.001) vs. < 200 cells/mm3as reference. The second analysis explored the predictive value of CD4/CD8 ratio for NAEs. Older age (HR: 1.09, 95% CI 1.05–1.13, p < 0.01) and current CD4/CD8 ratio < 0.3 (HR: 3.02, 95% CI 1.27–7.21, p = 0.01) or between 0.3 and 0.45 (HR: 2.03, 95% CI 1.03–3.98, p = 0.04) vs. > 0.45 were independently associated with higher risk of progression to NAEs in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Our findings showed that complete immune recovery is uncommon in an Asian setting and earlier ART initiation at higher CD4 counts may have increased the ratio sooner. The findings demonstrate the use of CD4/CD8 ratio as a prognostic marker for clinical progression of NAEs.

Trial registrationHIV-NAT 006 cohort, clinical trial number: NCT00411983
Evidence of effects of herbivory on Arctic vegetation: a systematic map protocol
Authors: Soininen E. M. , Barrio I. , Jepsen J. U. , Ehrich D. , Ravolainen V. T. , Speed J. D. M.
Published: September 2018

Background

Along with climate change, herbivory is considered a main driver of ecosystem change in terrestrial Arctic environments. Understanding how herbivory influences the resilience of Arctic ecosystems to ongoing environmental changes is essential to inform policy and guide sustainable management practices. However, many studies indicate that the effects of herbivores on plants and ecosystem functioning depend on the abiotic and biotic conditions where the interaction takes place, i.e. the ecological context. Yet, the range of ecological contexts in which herbivory has been studied in the Arctic has not been systematically assessed. A lack of such evaluation prevents understanding the robustness and generalizability of our knowledge of Arctic herbivore effects on vegetation and ecosystems. The main objective of our systematic map is to identify the ecological contexts where herbivory is studied in the Arctic. Hence, this systematic map will enable us to assess our ability to make generalizable and robust conclusions regarding the impacts of Arctic herbivory.

Methods

We will search academic and grey literature using databases, search engines and specialist websites, and select studies addressing the response of the plant(s) to herbivory, deemed relevant in terms of (i) population (terrestrial Arctic plants and plant communities), (ii) exposure (herbivory, including disturbance and fertilization effects of herbivores), and (iii) modifier (ecological context being in the terrestrial Arctic including forest-tundra). We will synthesize the results using systematic mapping approaches.
Virtual reality-integrated workflow in BIM-enabled projects collaboration and design review: a case study
Authors: Zaker Reza , Coloma Eloi
Published: September 2018

Introduction

A successful project delivery based on building information modeling (BIM) methods is interdependent on an efficient collaboration. This relies mainly on the visualization of a BIM model, which can appear on different mediums. Visualization on mediums such as computer screens, lack some degrees of immersion which may prevent the full utilization of the model. Another problem with conventional collaboration methods such as BIM-Big room, is the need of physical presence of participants in a room. Virtual Reality as the most immersive medium for visualizing a model, has the promise to become a regular part of construction industry. The virtual presence of collaborators in a VR environment, eliminates the need of their physical presence. Simulation of on-site task can address a number of issues during construction, such as feasibility of operations. As consumer VR tools have recently been available in the market, little research has been done on their actual employment in architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) practices.

Case description

This paper investigates the application of a VR based workflow in a real project. The authors collaborated with a software company to evaluate some of their advanced VR software features, such as simulation of an on-site task. A case study of VR integrated collaboration workflow serves as an example of how firms can overcome the challenge of benefiting this new technology. A group of AEC professionals involved in a project were invited to take part in the experiment, utilizing their actual project BIM models.

Discussion and evaluation

The results of the feedbacks from the experiment confirmed the supposed benefits of a VR collaboration method. Although the participants of the study were from a wide range of disciplines, they could find benefits of the technology in their practice. It also resulted that an experimental method of clash detection via simulation, could actually be practical.

Conclusion

The simulation of on-site tasks and perception of architectural spaces in a 1:1 scale are assets unique to VR application in AEC practices. Nevertheless, the study shows the investment in new hardware and software, and resistant against adoption of new technologies are main obstacles of its wide adoption. Further works in computer industry is required to make these technologies more affordable.
Follow-up study of 6.5 years of admissions to a UK female medium secure forensic psychiatry unit
Authors: Tully John , Cappai Alessandra , Lally John , Fotiadou Maria
Published: September 2018

Aims and method

We aimed to examine clinical and risk outcomes at follow-up, and reoffending and readmission rates, for a sample of 50 admissions to a female medium secure unit (MSU). Demographic, clinical risk assessment (HCR-20 and HoNOS-Secure) and quality of life data were collected using validated measures for all admissions to a female MSU ward in London, UK, between April 2008 and November 2014.

Results

All clinical and risk assessment scale scores had improved at follow-up. Quality of life compared favourably to community samples and was good for physical, social and environmental factors and acceptable for psychological health. Twenty-six per cent had at least one readmission, while 17.5% reoffended in the period studied. A longer duration of admission and use of restrictions on discharge was associated with reduced reoffending, but not readmission.

Clinical implications

Admission is associated with improvement on clinical risk assessment at follow-up. Longer hospital admissions and use of restrictions on discharge may be necessary to prevent reoffending in this group.

Declaration of interest

None.