bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial DNA: Epigenetics and environment
Authors: Sharma Nidhi , Pasala Monica S. , Prakash Aishwarya
Published: July 2019

Maintenance of the mitochondrial genome is essential for proper cellular function. For this purpose, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) needs to be faithfully replicated, transcribed, translated, and repaired in the face of constant onslaught from endogenous and environmental agents. Although only 13 polypeptides are encoded within mtDNA, the mitochondrial proteome comprises over 1500 proteins that are encoded by nuclear genes and translocated to the mitochondria for the purpose of maintaining mitochondrial function. Regulation of mtDNA and mitochondrial proteins by epigenetic changes and post‐translational modifications facilitate crosstalk between the nucleus and the mitochondria and ultimately lead to the maintenance of cellular health and homeostasis. DNA methyl transferases have been identified in the mitochondria implicating that methylation occurs within this organelle; however, the extent to which mtDNA is methylated has been debated for many years. Mechanisms of demethylation within this organelle have also been postulated, but the exact mechanisms and their outcomes is still an active area of research. Mitochondrial dysfunction in the form of altered gene expression and ATP production, resulting from epigenetic changes, can lead to various conditions including aging‐related neurodegenerative disorders, altered metabolism, changes in circadian rhythm, and cancer. Here, we provide an overview of the epigenetic regulation of mtDNA via methylation, long and short noncoding RNAs, and post‐translational modifications of nucleoid proteins (as mitochondria lack histones). We also highlight the influence of xenobiotics such as airborne environmental pollutants, contamination from heavy metals, and therapeutic drugs on mtDNA methylation. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 60:668–682, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adsorption of perchlorate from water using quaternary ammonium‐functionalized chitosan beads
Authors: Sowmya Appunni , Das Debanjani , Prabhakar Sivaraman , Kumar Marichamy Magesh , Anbalagan Kumaraguru , Rajesh Mathur
Published: July 2019

Perchlorate, one of the persistent inorganic pollutants, was efficiently removed from water using quaternary ammonium‐functionalized cross‐linked chitosan beads (QACB). This synthesized bead was found to be efficient in terms of perchlorate removal capacity, 100% regeneration of used beads (using HCl or NaCl) and selectivity in the presence of coanions, namely, chloride, sulfate, carbonate, and nitrate. QACB removes perchlorate by exchange of chloride ions. QACB was able to remove >95% perchlorate from brackish water. Batch studies were carried out in order to optimize the condition for maximum perchlorate removal. The perchlorate removal capacity of QACB from 1,000 mg/L of aqueous solutions was 153.0 mg/g. The outcome of pH variation studies indicated that QACB is able to remove perchlorate in the pH ranges of 2–11. Equilibrium isotherm data of adsorption of perchlorate at temperature 303, 313, and 323 K were well fitted to the linear Freundlich, Langmuir, and Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherm models. The adsorption kinetics data were best described by the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model. FTIR was used to confirm the interaction of perchlorate with QACB. A small‐scale column test was carried out to evaluate the capacity of QACB for removing perchlorate from brackish water.
A limiter‐based well‐balanced discontinuous Galerkin method for shallow‐water flows with wetting and drying: Triangular grids
Authors: Vater Stefan , Beisiegel Nicole , Behrens Jörn
Published: July 2019

A novel wetting and drying treatment for second‐order Runge‐Kutta discontinuous Galerkin methods solving the nonlinear shallow‐water equations is proposed. It is developed for general conforming two‐dimensional triangular meshes and utilizes a slope limiting strategy to accurately model inundation. The method features a nondestructive limiter, which concurrently meets the requirements for linear stability and wetting and drying. It further combines existing approaches for positivity preservation and well balancing with an innovative velocity‐based limiting of the momentum. This limiting controls spurious velocities in the vicinity of the wet/dry interface. It leads to a computationally stable and robust scheme, even on unstructured grids, and allows for large time steps in combination with explicit time integrators. The scheme comprises only one free parameter, to which it is not sensitive in terms of stability. A number of numerical test cases, ranging from analytical tests to near‐realistic laboratory benchmarks, demonstrate the performance of the method for inundation applications. In particular, superlinear convergence, mass conservation, well balancedness, and stability are verified.
High‐Frequency Price Discovery and Price Efficiency on Interest Rate Futures
Authors: Nie Jing
Published: July 2019

This paper estimates a collection of high‐frequency informational efficiency metrics by constructing a unique Eurodollar futures data set with the complete messaging history. To capture price efficiency, this paper calculates the mid‐quote return autocorrelations following a full range of time intervals. The findings suggest the mid‐quote return autocorrelations are positive and gradually increase from the tick‐level to 30‐min. Then, I utilize a vector autoregression to estimate the pricing error, which shows the adjustment time of trade returns is completed in 1 s. Furthermore, trade prices are less sensitive about incorporating any available new information as the Eurodollar futures approaches its maturity.
Robust estimation of risk‐neutral moments
Authors: Ammann Manuel , Feser Alexander
Published: July 2019

This study provides an in‐depth analysis of how to estimate risk‐neutral moments robustly. A simulation and an empirical study show that estimating risk‐neutral moments presents a trade‐off between (a) the bias of estimates caused by a limited strike price domain and (b) the variance of estimates induced by microstructural noise. The best trade‐off is offered by option‐implied quantile moments estimated from a volatility surface interpolated with a local‐linear kernel regression and extrapolated linearly. A similarly good trade‐off is achieved by estimating regular central option‐implied moments from a volatility surface interpolated with a cubic smoothing spline and flat extrapolation.
Illiquidity transmission from spot to futures markets
Authors: Korn Olaf , Krischak Paolo , Theissen Erik
Published: July 2019

We develop a model of illiquidity transmission from spot to futures markets that formalizes the derivative hedge theory of Cho and Engle (1999). The model shows that spot market illiquidity does not translate one to one to the futures market but, rather, interacts with price risk, liquidity risk, and the risk aversion of the market maker. The model's predictions are tested empirically with data from the stock market and markets for single‐stock futures and index futures. The results support our model and show that the derivative hedge theory provides an explanation for the liquidity link between spot and futures markets.
Mutations in spliceosome genes and therapeutic opportunities in myeloid malignancies
Authors: Taylor Justin , Lee Stanley C.
Published: July 2019

Since the discovery of RNA splicing more than 40 years ago, our comprehension of the molecular events orchestrating constitutive and alternative splicing has greatly improved. Dysregulation of pre‐mRNA splicing has been observed in many human diseases including neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. The recent identification of frequent somatic mutations in core components of the spliceosome in myeloid malignancies and functional analysis using model systems has advanced our knowledge of how splicing alterations contribute to disease pathogenesis. In this review, we summarize our current understanding on the mechanisms of how mutant splicing factors impact splicing and the resulting functional and pathophysiological consequences. We also review recent advances to develop novel therapeutic approaches targeting splicing catalysis and splicing regulatory proteins, and discuss emerging technologies using oligonucleotide‐based therapies to modulate pathogenically spliced isoforms.
Primary malignant epithelioid and rhabdoid tumor of bone harboring ZNF532‐NUTM1 fusion: the expanding NUT cancer family
Authors: Chien Yen‐Wei , Hsieh Tsung‐Han , Chu Ping‐Yuan , Hsieh Shu‐Min , Liu Mei‐Ling , Lee Jen‐Chieh , Liu Yun‐Ru , Ku Jan‐Wen , Kao Yu‐Chien
Published: July 2019

NUTM1 gene rearrangement is the genetic hallmark of NUT carcinoma, an aggressive tumor that most commonly affects the thoracic and head and neck regions and often exhibits squamous differentiation. The most common fusion partner gene is BRD4, followed by BRD3 and NSD3. Recently, NUTM1 gene rearrangement has been identified in rare tumors from soft tissues, intracranial locations, and other visceral organs. These tumors often show high grade malignant epithelioid to round cell histomorphology and lack evidence of squamous and/or epithelial differentiation. Therefore, their relationship with classic NUT carcinoma is still uncertain. Here, we present a primary mandible bone tumor of a 21‐year‐old female exhibiting monotonous epithelioid and rhabdoid cytomorphology, vesicular chromatin, and prominent nucleoli. The initial immunohistochemical workup was non‐specific, showing only CD34 positivity while being negative for cytokeratin (AE1/AE3), EMA, p63, etc. INI‐1 expression was retained. RNA sequencing was performed and identified a rare ZNF532‐NUTM1 gene fusion, which had only been reported in a single case of pulmonary NUT carcinoma. The fusion was confirmed by FISH for NUTM1 gene rearrangement and supported by diffuse and strong NUT immunoreactivity. MYC mRNA up‐regulation and immunoreactivity, a common finding in NUT carcinoma, was also observed in this tumor, suggesting a possible common pathogenetic mechanism and potential treatment target. The patient presented with a non‐metastatic disease status and received hemimandibulectomy, selective neck dissection (level Ib), and post‐operative radiation therapy. She remained disease free 3.6 years after the initial diagnosis.
Genetic analyses supporting colorectal, gastric, and prostate cancer syndromes
Authors: Wallander Karin , Liu Wen , von Holst Susanna , Thutkawkorapin Jessada , Kontham Vinaykumar , Forsberg Anna , Lindblom Annika , Lagerstedt‐Robinson Kristina
Published: July 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC), prostate cancer (PrC), and gastric cancer (GC) are common worldwide, and the incidence is to a certain extent dependent on genetics. We have recently shown that in families with more than one case of CRC, the risk of other malignancies is increased. We therefore suggested the presence of not yet described CRC syndromes. In this study, we have searched for genetic susceptibility loci for potential cancer syndromes involving CRC combined with PrC and/or GC. We have performed SNP (single‐nucleotide polymorphism)‐based linkage analyses in 45 families with CRC, PrC, and GC. In the regions with suggested linkage, we performed exome and association haplotype analyses. Five loci generated a high logarithm of odds (HLOD) score >2, suggestive of linkage, in chromosome bands 1q31‐32, 1q24‐25, 6q25‐26, 18p11‐q11, and Xp11. Exome analysis detected no potential pathogenic sequence variants. The haplotype association study showed that one of the top five haplotypes with the lowest P value in the chromosome band 6q25 interestingly was found in the family which contributed the most to the increased HLOD at that locus. This study supports a suggested hereditary cancer syndrome involving CRC and PrC and indicates a location at 6q25. The impact of this locus needs to be confirmed in additional studies.
Analytical strategies to include the X‐chromosome in variance heterogeneity analyses: Evidence for trait‐specific polygenic variance structure
Authors: Deng Wei Q. , Mao Shihong , Kalnapenkis Anette , Esko Tõnu , Mägi Reedik , Paré Guillaume , Sun Lei
Published: July 2019

Genotype‐stratified variance of a quantitative trait could differ in the presence of gene–gene or gene–environment interactions. Genetic markers associated with phenotypic variance are thus considered promising candidates for follow‐up interaction or joint location‐scale analyses. However, as in studies of main effects, the X‐chromosome is routinely excluded from “whole‐genome” scans due to analytical challenges. Specifically, as males carry only one copy of the X‐chromosome, the inherent sex‐genotype dependency could bias the trait‐genotype association, through sexual dimorphism in quantitative traits with sex‐specific means or variances. Here we investigate phenotypic variance heterogeneity associated with X‐chromosome single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and propose valid and powerful strategies. Among those, a generalized Levene's test has adequate power and remains robust to sexual dimorphism. An alternative approach is a sex‐stratified analysis but at the cost of slightly reduced power and modeling flexibility. We applied both methods to an Estonian study of gene expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL; n = 841), and two complex trait studies of height, hip, and waist circumferences, and body mass index from Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA; n = 2,073) and UK Biobank (UKB; n = 327,393). Consistent with previous eQTL findings on mean, we found some but no conclusive evidence for cis regulators being enriched for variance association. SNP rs2681646 is associated with variance of waist circumference (p = 9.5E‐07) at X‐chromosome‐wide significance in UKB, with a suggestive female‐specific effect in MESA (p = 0.048). Collectively, an enrichment analysis using permutated UKB (p < 0.1) and MESA (p < 0.01) datasets, suggests a possible polygenic structure for the variance of human height.
Cortical network dynamics are coupled with cognitive aging in rats
Authors: Myrum Craig , Rossi Sharyn L. , Perez Evelyn J. , Rapp Peter R.
Published: July 2019

Changes in neuronal network activity and increased interindividual variability in memory are among the most consistent features of growing older. Here, we examined the relationship between these hallmarks of aging. Young and aged rats were trained on a water maze task where aged individuals reliably display an increased range of spatial memory capacities relative to young. Two weeks later, neuronal activity was induced pharmacologically with a low dose of pilocarpine and control animals received vehicle. Activity levels were proxied by quantifying the immediate early gene products Arc and c‐Fos. While no relationship was observed between basal, resting activity, and individual differences in spatial memory in any brain region, pilocarpine‐induced marker expression was tightly coupled with memory in all areas of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus examined. The nature of this association, however, differed across regions and in relation to age‐related cognitive outcome. Specifically, in the medial PFC, induced activity was greatest in aged rats with cognitive impairment and correlated with water maze performance across all subjects. In the hippocampus, the range of induced marker expression was comparable between groups and similarly coupled with memory in both impaired and unimpaired aged rats. Together the findings highlight that the dynamic range of neural network activity across multiple brain regions is a critical component of neurocognitive aging.
Validating the theoretical bases of sleep reactivation during sharp‐wave ripples and their association with emotional valence
Authors: Laventure Samuel , Benchenane Karim
Published: July 2019

Sleep is important for memory consolidation, and an abundant literature suggests that reactivation in the hippocampus during sleep is instrumental to this process. Yet, the current interpretation of activity during sharp‐waves ripples (SWRs), as replay of wake experiences, relies on hypotheses that, while widely accepted, have only recently begun to be tested directly. Moreover, this theory has been mainly studied in the context of pure spatial learning, and it is still not clear how emotional valence can fit into this conceptual framework when considering reward‐ or punishment‐based learning. In this review, we will present recent experimental arguments validating the interpretation of sleep replay as reactivation of awake experiences and examine the evidence showing that the emotional valence is also replayed during sleep in a coordinated fashion with hippocampal SWRs. Finally, we will detail recent experiments showing that brain–computer interfaces can be used to modify the emotional valence associated with sleep replay.
Linking employer branding orientation and firm performance: Testing a dual mediation route of recruitment efficiency and positive affective climate
Authors: Tumasjan Andranik , Kunze Florian , Bruch Heike , Welpe Isabell M.
Published: July 2019

Faced with competitive labor markets, firms increasingly use employer branding to build a qualified workforce and engage their employees. However, our understanding of the impact of employer branding orientation on firm performance and the theoretical firm‐level mechanisms underlying this potential impact is very limited. To address this gap, we integrate brand marketing theory with human resource management (HRM) research to develop a model explicating how employer branding orientation is linked to firm performance through a dual route by enhancing both recruitment efficiency (i.e., external route: applicants) and positive affective climate (i.e., internal route: incumbent employees). The results of a multisource study (i.e., top management, human resource managers, employees) with 93 firms show employer branding orientation is positively related to firm performance through positive affective climate but not recruitment efficiency. Using a brand equity approach to HRM, our results advance the literature by demonstrating the generalizability of employer branding effects independent of concrete brand attributes and explaining the firm‐level mediating mechanisms linking it to firm performance.
Efficacy and social validity of procedures for improving conversational skills of college students with autism
Authors: Mann Charlotte C. , Karsten Amanda M.
Published: July 2019

Better conversational skills correspond to a higher quality of life for adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this study, we taught vocal–verbal responses discriminated by compound arrangements of concealed conversation partner mands to two college students with ASD. Participants learned to engage in self‐questioning about their conversation partner's behavior and to reinforce three concealed mands for termination of an aversive conversation scenario. We assessed generalization to conversation probes with trained confederates and to interactions with untrained conversational partners (e.g., peers, professors). Finally, we collected peer ratings of the social validity of changes in conversational behavior as well as participants' ratings of study goals, procedures, and outcomes.
The importance of multiple exemplar instruction in the establishment of novel verbal behavior
Authors: LaFrance Danielle L. , Tarbox Jonathan
Published: July 2019

According to traditional linguistic accounts language, and its generative nature, cannot be taught. From a behavior analytic perspective, language is like any other behavior; it is learned and amenable to change. Based upon Skinner's radical behavioral analysis of verbal behavior, specific procedures have been designed to promote novel verbal relations. However, despite the strength and utility of this approach, using behavioral principles to understand the generativity of language has been challenging. Dependent upon the specific theory (e.g., stimulus equivalence, relational frame theory, bidirectional naming) within the radical behavioral orientation, researchers arrange unique procedures to evaluate the variables responsible for this phenomenon. This paper presents the commonalities and differences of two procedures (i.e., multiple exemplar training, multiple exemplar instruction) with examples of research highlighting the use of both in producing generativity. Further, it describes how multiple exemplar instruction is independent from other procedures leading to this outcome, and concludes by providing recommendations for both research and practice.
Metformin in contrast to berberine reversed arsenic‐induced oxidative stress in mitochondria from rat pancreas probably via Sirt3‐dependent pathway
Authors: Javadipour Mansoureh , Rezaei Mohsen , Keshtzar Elham , Khodayar Mohammad Javad
Published: July 2019

Exposure to arsenic has been linked to the development of type 2 diabetes though its mechanism of toxicity remains unresolved. In this study berberine (BBR) effects on arsenic‐induced sirtuin 3 (Sirt3) modifications in isolated mitochondria from rat pancreas were evaluated and compared with metformin (MET). With arsenic, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), oxidative stress, and insulin resistance were obtained higher than control. From our results and in the presence of arsenic trioxide, insulin resistance and Sirt3 levels were found to be predominantly elevated that could be the result of compensating mechanisms. Apparently, BBR and MET recruit both direct (as an antioxidant) and indirect mechanisms (Sirt3 content) to deal with arsenic trioxide toxicity. Metformin compared with BBR exhibited a less significant effect on ROS levels and since its direct antioxidant property is minor, depressed the ROS level mainly through the Sirt3 modification.
Quercetin protected against isoniazide‐induced HepG2 cell apoptosis by activating the SIRT1/ERK pathway
Authors: Zhang Yueming , Zhang Wenrui , Tao Lina , Zhai Jinghui , Gao Huan , Song Yanqing , Qu Xiaoyu
Published: July 2019

Isoniazid (INH) is one of the most commonly used antituberculosis drugs, but its clinical applications have been limited by severe hepatic toxicity. Quercetin (Que), a natural flavonoid, has been proved to have many medicinal properties. This study aimed to clarify the possible protective effects of Que against INH‐induced hepatotoxicity using HepG2 cells. Our results indicated that Que significantly increased cell viability, superoxide dismutase, and GSH levels, while decreased alanine aminotransferase/aspartate aminotransferase levels. Besides, Que significantly abrogated INH‐induced cell apoptosis by upregulating the expression levels of Bcl‐2 and decreasing the levels of Bax, cleaved caspase‐3, and cleaved caspase‐9. Furthermore, Que obviously reversed the inhibition of INH on Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation. Next, the SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 blocked the enhancement of Que upon ERK phosphorylation. Notably, EX527 partially abolished the beneficial effects of Que. In brief, our results provided the first evidence that Que protected against INH‐induced HepG2 cells by regulating the SIRT1/ERK pathway.
Is there any potential anticancer effect of raloxifene and fluoxetine on DMBA‐induced rat breast cancer?
Authors: Tatar Oguzhan , Ilhan Necip , Ilhan Nevin , Susam Solmaz , Ozercan Ibrahim Hanifi
Published: July 2019

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the world and the incidence is increasing alarmingly. It was aimed to determine the effect of raloxifene (RAL) and fluoxetine (FLX) on selected parameters in 7,12‐dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)‐induced mammary carcinoma. Thirty‐two female Wistar albino rats were assorted into four groups: DMBA (group I), DMBA+RAL (group II), DMBA+FLX (group III), and DMBA+RAL+FLX (group IV). Mammary tissue vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF), matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9), and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1) levels were determined by the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method. The tissue VEGF levels were lower in group IV compared with DMBA group. Decreased M‐CSF levels were observed in all therapeutic groups rather than the DMBA group, but the most effective decrease was found in group IV. Compared with the DMBA group, MMP‐9 levels were statistically significantly decreased in group II and group IV. However, TIMP‐1 levels were higher in the whole therapeutic groups rather than the DMBA group and the most effective increase was observed in group IV. Results of the present study suggest that combined therapy of RAL with FLX might lead to a better outcome targeting breast tumor.
Organic dyes containing nonsubstituted aryl amino moieties and azobenzene units for dye‐sensitized solar cells
Authors: Toan Nguyen Duc , Chiu Kuo Yuan , Tran Thai Thi Ha , Yang Te‐Fang , Su Yuhlong Oliver
Published: July 2019

A series of novel sensitizers were successfully synthesized utilizing azobenzene as a π‐linkage unit for the D–π–A structure. A slight red shift on the absorption spectra and λonset of the sensitizers could be observed when the thienyl group was introduced to the acceptor moiety (A). In addition, replacing the donor moiety (D) from carbazole to diarylamino could lead to a negative shift (approximately 0.3 V) in the first oxidation potential. DFT calculation was also carried out and the trend of calculated HOMO–LUMO gaps was consistent to the experimental data obtained from the CV results (DT1 < DT2 < DT3 < DT4). These sensitizers were then employed in dye‐sensitized solar cells to investigate their photovoltaic performances. Highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 0.84% was achieved for DT1‐based DSSC according to its most bathochromic absorption spectrum.
Expressive suppression mediates the relation between disordered eating and suicidal ideation
Authors: Ortiz Shelby , Knauft Katherine , Smith April , Kalia Vrinda
Published: July 2019

Objective

Although disordered eating is robustly associated with suicidal thoughts, it is not well understood why these conditions relate to each other. Emotion dysregulation is a shared risk factor for disordered eating and suicidal thoughts. Individuals with dysregulated emotions struggle to select appropriate strategies to modulate emotions and the strategies they use might explain some of the shared variances. Thus, we examined whether emotion regulation strategies mediated the relationship between disordered eating and suicidal ideation.

Method

Adult participants (N = 230) completed questionnaires on current disordered eating symptoms, emotion regulation strategies, and current suicidal ideation.

Results

Disordered eating symptoms positively associated with suicidal ideation. In addition, expressive suppression mediated the relation between disordered eating symptoms and current suicidal ideation. No relation was found for cognitive reappraisal.

Conclusions

The use of expressive suppression as an emotion regulation strategy may be related to increased suicidal ideation in individuals who express concerns about eating.
Improving self‐esteem through integrative group therapy for personality dysfunction: Investigating the role of the therapeutic alliance and quality of object relations
Authors: Aafjes‐van Doorn Katie , Kealy David , Ehrenthal Johannes C. , Ogrodniczuk John S. , Joyce Anthony S. , Weber Rainer
Published: July 2019

Objective

We aimed to investigate change in self‐esteem through intensive group treatment for personality dysfunction, by exploring: (a) the relationship between patients’ experience of therapeutic alliance and improvement in self‐esteem during treatment, including patients’ quality of object‐relations (QOR) as a possible moderator; and (b) the association between improvement in self‐esteem during treatment, and depressive symptoms 9 months later.

Method

Eighty patients with personality dysfunction, consecutively enrolled in a group‐oriented treatment program, were assessed at pretreatment, posttreatment, and 9 months follow‐up.

Results

Especially for patients with lower QOR, alliance predicted self‐esteem change during treatment. In addition, change in self‐esteem during treatment predicted follow‐up depression severity, even when controlling for within‐treatment symptom change.

Conclusions

Patients with impoverished inner relational representations may benefit more from a secure alliance in terms of improving their self‐esteem. Change in self‐esteem may also be important in preventing relapse of depressive symptoms in people with personality dysfunction.
PTSD from a suicide attempt: An empirical investigation among suicide attempt survivors
Authors: Stanley Ian H. , Hom Melanie A. , Boffa Joseph W. , Stage Dese'Rae L. , Joiner Thomas E.
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Suicide attempts (SAs), by definition, represent a risk for serious injury or death; thus, one's SA may contribute to the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet, empirical data on this topic are lacking. This study aimed to characterize the phenomenology, rate, and associated features of PTSD following one's SA.

Method

A total of 386 adult SA survivors recruited from web‐based sources participated.

Results

Overall, 27.5% (95% confidence interval = 23.1–31.9%) of SA survivors screened positive for a probable SA‐related PTSD diagnosis. Individuals with a probable SA‐related PTSD diagnosis reported greater current suicidal intent than those without this probable diagnosis; this association was significant at low, but not high, levels of depression symptoms.

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of SA survivors may experience SA‐related PTSD. SA‐related PTSD may be a viable assessment and intervention target to improve the quality of life and to reduce future suicide risk among SA survivors.
Understanding self‐injury recovery: Views from individuals with lived experience
Authors: Lewis Stephen P. , Kenny Therese E. , Whitfield Kristen , Gomez Jennifer
Published: July 2019

Objective

Nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) recovery has typically been conceptualized through the lens of formal frameworks or as the cessation of NSSI. These understandings, however, have been developed largely devoid of views from those with lived NSSI experience, who may offer novel and critical insights. To advance the conception of NSSI recovery, the current study elicited such views.

Methods

Two hundred and thirty‐three emerging adults with a history of NSSI (77% female, mean age = 18.9 years), responded to open‐ended questions regarding recovery. Results were thematically analyzed using an inductive approach.

Results

Responses yielded seven themes: (a) recovery is complete NSSI cessation; (b) recovery is more than cessation; (c) recovery involves lingering NSSI features; (d) recovery involves developing resilience; (e) recovery is a process; (f) evolution in understanding recovery; and (g) recovery is a subjective experience.

Conclusion

Recovery seems to be multifarious, nonlinear, and subjective. Conceptual and clinical implications are discussed.
The interaction of sociocultural attitudes and gender on disordered eating
Authors: Douglas Valerie J. , Kwan Mun Yee , Minnich Allison M. , Gordon Kathryn H.
Published: July 2019

Objective

The Tripartite Influence Model posits that social agents emphasize a thin ideal for women and a muscularity ideal for men. There is a gap in the literature of how sociocultural body ideal internalization affects overall disordered eating symptoms in men and specifically drive for muscularity in women.

Method

The sample consisted of 1,929 participants (44.2% men) who completed online surveys. It was predicted that internalization would be a stronger predictor for overall disordered eating in women and for muscularity in men.

Results

Women with high internalization had increased disordered eating symptoms in comparison to men, whereas for men, increased internalization was linked to more drive for muscularity, as compared with women.

Conclusions

It is important to emphasize, however, that men still exhibited higher rates of disordered eating symptoms when they had increased internalization and women exhibited an increased drive for muscularity when they had higher internalization.
Perceived burdensomeness, bullying, and suicidal ideation in suicidal military personnel
Authors: Crowell‐Williamson Gavin A. , Fruhbauerova Martina , DeCou Christopher R. , Comtois Katherine A.
Published: July 2019

Objective

Suicide is a major public health concern among military servicemembers and previous research has demonstrated an association between bullying and suicide. This study evaluated the association between workplace bullying and suicidal ideation via perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness which were hypothesized to mediate this association.

Method

Four hundred and seventy‐one suicidal Army Soldiers and U.S. Marines completed self‐report measures of suicidal ideation, thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and bullying. A series of regressions were used to test the hypothesized mediation model using the baseline data from a larger clinical trial.

Results

Perceived burdensomeness was a significant mediator of the association between bullying and the level of suicidal ideation, but thwarted belongingness was not a significant mediator.

Conclusions

Perceived burdensomeness may represent a malleable target for intervention to prevent suicide among military service members, and should be evaluated further as an intervening variable with regard to suicidality in the setting of bullying victimization.
New measures to assess the social ecology of youth: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Hamby Sherry , Taylor Elizabeth , Smith Alli , Mitchell Kimberly , Jones Lisa , Newlin Chris
Published: July 2019

Objective

This project used mixed methods to expand the understanding of social ecological constructs important to youth and develop measures to assess these constructs.

Methods

Eight focus groups and 24 cognitive interviews were conducted with adolescents and caregivers. These were followed by a survey completed by 440 youth ages 10–21 (average age: 16.38, standard deviation[SD] = 3.04).

Results

Qualitative data revealed social ecological constructs that have received little prior research attention. These include three psychosocial strengths: relational motivation (inspiration from key adults), group connectedness (bonded to others in teams or organizations), and mattering (knowing your importance to significant others). One outcome was also identified: family well‐being (subjective psychological functioning of the family). Psychometric analyses indicated that the new quantitative measures have good to excellent reliability and validity.

Implications

The social ecology is complex and extends beyond commonly studied constructs such as social support and collective efficacy. More comprehensive assessments can further research.
The implementation of a culturally grounded, school‐based, drug prevention curriculum in rural Hawai‘i
Authors: Okamoto Scott K. , Helm Susana , Chin Steven K. , Hata Janice , Hata Emily , Okamura Kelsie H.
Published: July 2019

This article describes the process of infusing implementation strategies in the development of a school‐based drug prevention curriculum for rural Native Hawaiian youth. The curriculum (Ho‘ouna Pono) is a video‐enhanced, teacher‐implemented curriculum developed using a culturally grounded and community‐based participatory research approach. Throughout the development of the curriculum, strategies reflective of the domains of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) were integrated into the teacher training manual, to promote the implementation, adoption, and sustainability of the curriculum in rural Hawai‘i. These strategies were validated through qualitative data across two interrelated studies with community stakeholders in rural Hawai‘i. Implications for prevention, community, and educational practices are described in this article.
Silencing of RHEB inhibits cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells via inhibition of the mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Tian Yuxi , Shen Liangfang , Li Fujun , Yang Junwen , Wan Xiaoping , Ouyang Miao
Published: July 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is commonly known as one of the most prominent reasons for cancer‐related death in China. Ras homolog enriched in brain (RHEB) and the mammalian target activity of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway were found correlated with CRC, but their specific interaction in CRC was still to be investigated. Therefore, we explored whether RHEB gene silencing affected the cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis by directly targeting the mTOR signaling pathway in cells previously harvested from CRC patients. A microarray analysis was subsequently conducted to investigate the relationship between RHEB and mTOR. Eighty‐three adjacent normal tissues and CRC tissues were selected. Immunohistochemistry was carried out to detect the positive expression rates of RHEB and Ki‐67 in the CRC tissues. Cells were then transfected with different siRNAs to investigate the potential effects RHEB would have on CRC progression. The expressions of RHEB, 4EBP1, ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70S6K), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), B cell lymphoma 2 (bcl‐2), and bcl‐2‐associated X protein (bax) were determined and then the cell cycle, cell proliferation, and apoptotic rate were also measured. We identified RHEB and mTOR as upregulated genes in CRC. Cells treated with RHEB silencing showed a decreased extent of mTOR, p70S6K, 4EBP1 phosphorylation and expression of RHEB, Ki‐67, mTOR, p70S6K, 4EBP1, bcl‐2, and PCNA as well as decreased activity of cell proliferation and differentiation; although, the expression of bax was evidently higher. Collectively, our data propose the idea that RHEB gene silencing might repress cell proliferation and differentiation while accelerating apoptosis via inactivating the mTOR signaling pathway.
Identification of a six lncRNAs signature as novel diagnostic biomarkers for cervical cancer
Authors: Luo Weiming , Wang Meng , Liu Juan , Cui Xuan , Wang Hui
Published: July 2019

Cervical cancer is a tumor with the second highest morbidity and mortality in the world, and it is also the most common cancer and the eighth lethal factor among malignant tumors in Chinese female. This study aimed to identify long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that related to diagnosis and prognosis in cervical cancer to improve early diagnosis and treatment. First, we extracted transcriptome profilings of cervical cancer samples from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) database, and then extracted the lncRNAs and mRNAs expression profiles. Based on the lncRNAs expression profiles of test set, we screened lncRNAs that related to progression of cervical cancer tumors. We found six lncRNAs associated with tumor progression in cervical cancer patients, in which five lncRNAs have highly similar expression patterns but the other one has the opposite expression pattern. We found that these six lncRNAs might be related to keratinization and immunity by enrichment analysis, and two of them (AC126474 and C5orf66‐AS1) were associated with prognosis in patients with cervical cancer. And these results were validated using the validation set. Overall, we identified six lncRNAs that played an important role in the development of cervical cancer, and two of them might be associated with the prognosis of cervical cancer, which provides new insight into the diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer.
Optogenetic stimulation of serotonin nuclei retrieve the lost memory in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Bostancıklıoğlu Mehmet
Published: July 2019

How are memories stored and retrieved? It was one of the most discussed questions in the past century by neuroscientists. Leading studies of the period brought two different explanations to this question: The first statement considers memory as a physiological change in the brain and suggest that the retrieval of memory is only occurred by the same physiologic changes observed during the memory formation, while the second suggests that memory is a psychic mood stored in mind and the retrieval of memory is occurred by mystical energy fluctuations. Although the exact reason and the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease have not yet been fully understood, the approaches that centered the retrieval strategy of lost memory constitutes the basis of the treatment strategies in Alzheimer's disease today. The majority of treatment studies has based on the manipulation of the cholinergic system; however, although serotonin has mnemonic effects, its role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease has not been investigated as much as the cholinergic system. Here we show how serotonin affects the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease in a comprehensive perspective and we suggest that the optogenetics manipulation of serotonin nuclei retrieve the lost memory by closing the inward‐rectifier potassium channel Kir2 on the memory engram cells. Also, we raise the possible effects of serotonin on the memory engram cells and the interactions between the amyloid‐centric hypothesis of Alzheimer's disease and the memory engram hypothesis to explain the pathophysiology of memory loss in Alzheimer's disease.
Cholinergic anti‐inflammatory pathway confers airway protection against oxidative damage and attenuates inflammation in an allergic asthma model
Authors: Antunes Géssica Luana , Silveira Josiane Silva , Kaiber Daniela Benvenutti , Luft Carolina , da Costa Mariana Severo , Marques Eduardo Peil , Ferreira Fernanda Silva , Breda Ricardo Vaz , Wyse Angela T. S. , Stein Renato Tetelbom , Pitrez Paulo Márcio , da Cunha Aline Andrea
Published: July 2019

Asthma is characterized by the influx of inflammatory cells, especially of eosinophils as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, driven by the release of the T helper 2 (Th2)‐cell‐associated cytokines. The cholinergic anti‐inflammatory pathway (CAP) inhibit cytokines production and controls inflammation. Thus, we investigated the effects of pharmacological activation of CAP by neostigmine on oxidative stress and airway inflammation in an allergic asthma model. After the OVA challenge, mice were treated with neostigmine. We showed that CAP activation by neostigmine reduced the levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐13, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α), which resulted in a decrease of eosinophils influx. Furthermore, neostigmine also conferred airway protection against oxidative stress, attenuating ROS production through the increase of antioxidant defense, evidenced by the catalase (CAT) activity. We propose, for the first time, that pharmacological activation of the CAP can lead to new possibilities in the therapeutic management of allergic asthma.
Transforming growth factor β signaling pathway: A promising therapeutic target for cancer
Authors: Chen Yuhong , Di Cuixia , Zhang Xuetian , Wang Jing , Wang Fang , Yan Jun‐fang , Xu Caipeng , Zhang Jinhua , Zhang Qianjing , Li Hongyan , Yang Hongying , Zhang Hong
Published: July 2019

Transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) is part of the transforming growth factor β superfamily which is involved in many physiological processes and closely related to the carcinogenesis. Here, we discuss the TGF‐β structure, function, and its canonical Smads signaling pathway. Importantly, TGF‐β has been proved that it plays both tumor suppressor as well as an activator role in tumor progression. In an early stage, TGF‐β inhibits cell proliferation and is involved in cell apoptosis. In an advanced tumor, TGF‐β signaling pathway induces tumor invasion and metastasis through promoting angiogenesis, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and immune escape. Furthermore, we are centered on updated research results into the inhibitors as drugs which have been studied in preclinical or clinical trials in tumor carcinogenesis to prevent the TGF‐β synthesis and block its signaling pathways such as antibodies, antisense molecules, and small‐molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Thus, it is highlighting the crucial role of TGF‐β in tumor therapy and may provide opportunities for the new antitumor strategies in patients with cancer.
Histological validation of pulmonary infarction detected with contrast‐enhanced ultrasound in patients with negative computed tomography pulmonary angiogram: A case series
Authors: Trenker Corinna , Dohse Marius , Ramaswamy Anette , Michel Christian , Görg Christian
Published: July 2019

Objective

The purpose of this case series is to evaluate the diagnostic potential of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in patients with clinically suspected pulmonary embolism (PE), suspicious pleural lesions, and negative computed tomography pulmonary angiogram (CTPA).

Patients/Methods

Between January 2017 and January 2018, we examined patients with an intermediate or a high‐risk Wells score and a negative CTPA with lung B‐mode ultrasound (LUS). In a total of six patients, pleural defects were identified and further examined by CEUS. Nonenhancing lesions or those with inhomogeneous enhancement were considered to be suspicious for an embolic event and biopsied for histological validation. The data analysis was retrospective.

Results

In LUS, the lesions had an average size of 2.4 cm (range 2‐3 cm). Five were hypoechoic and one was complex. The shape was wedge shaped (n = 5) or round (n = 1), and the number was solitary (n = 4) or multiple (n = 2) with dorsobasal localization (n = 6). Three lesions were nonenhancing, and three had an inhomogeneous enhancement with areas with complete absence of enhancement. The histological examination showed pulmonary infarction in all six cases, and in one patient also cells of a lung carcinoma.

Conclusion

Our case series demonstrates the diagnostic potential of CEUS for detecting peripheral pulmonary infarction in patients with clinically suspected PE and negative CTPA scan regarding PE. A histological validation or a narrow follow‐up might be warranted in some cases.
Data Quality and Optimal Background Correction Order of Respiratory‐Gated k‐Space Segmented Spoiled Gradient Echo (SGRE) and Echo Planar Imaging (EPI)‐Based 4D Flow MRI
Authors: Viola Federica , Dyverfeldt Petter , Carlhäll Carl‐Johan , Ebbers Tino
Published: July 2019

Background

A reduction in scan time of 4D Flow MRI would facilitate clinical application. A recent study indicates that echo‐planar imaging (EPI) 4D Flow MRI allows for a reduction in scan time and better data quality than the recommended k‐space segmented spoiled gradient echo (SGRE) sequence. It was argued that the poor data quality of SGRE was related to the nonrecommended absence of respiratory motion compensation. However, data quality can also be affected by the background offset compensation.

Purpose

To compare the data quality of respiratory motion‐compensated SGRE and EPI 4D Flow MRI and their dependence on background correction (BC) order.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

Eighteen healthy subjects (eight female, mean age 32 ± 5 years).

Field Strength and Sequence

1.5 T. [Correction added on July 26, 2019, after first online publication: The preceding field strength was corrected.] SGRE and EPI‐based 4D Flow MRI.

Assessment

Data quality was investigated visually and by comparing flows through the cardiac valves and aorta. Measurements were obtained from transvalvular flow and pathline analysis.

Statistical Tests

Linear regression and Bland–Altman analysis were used. Wilcoxon test was used for comparison of visual scoring. Student's t‐test was used for comparison of flow volumes.

Results

No significant difference was found by visual inspection (P = 0.08). Left ventricular (LV) flows were strongly and very strongly associated with SGRE and EPI, respectively (R2 = 0.86–0.94 SGRE; 0.71–0.79 EPI, BC0–4). LV and right ventricular (RV) outflows and LV pathline flows were very strongly associated (R2 = 0.93–0.95 SGRE; 0.88–0.91 EPI, R2 = 0.91–0.95 SGRE; 0.91–0.93 EPI, BC1–4). EPI LV outflow was lower than the short‐axis‐based stroke volume. EPI RV outflow and proximal descending aortic flow were lower than SGREs.

Data Conclusion

Both sequences yielded good internal data consistency when an adequate background correction was applied. Second and first BC order were considered sufficient for transvalvular flow analysis in SGRE and EPI, respectively. Higher BC orders were preferred for particle tracing.

Level of Evidence 4

Technical Efficacy Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:885–896.