bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide identification of directed gene networks using large-scale population genomics data
Authors: Luijk René , Dekkers Koen F. , van Iterson Maarten , Arindrarto Wibowo , Claringbould Annique , Hop Paul ,   BIOS Consortium, Boomsma Dorret I. , van Duin Cornelia M. , van Greevenbroek Marleen M.J. , Veldink Jan H. , Wijmenga Cisca , Franke Lude , ’t Hoen Peter A.C. , Jansen Rick , van Meurs Joyce , Mei Hailiang , Slagboom P. Eline , Heijmans Bastiaan T. , van Zwet Erik W.
Published: November 2017

Identification of causal drivers behind regulatory gene networks is crucial in understanding gene function. We developed a method for the large-scale inference of gene-gene interactions in observational population genomics data that are both directed (using local genetic instruments as causal anchors, akin to Mendelian Randomization) and specific (by controlling for linkage disequilibrium and pleiotropy). The analysis of genotype and whole-blood RNA-sequencing data from 3,072 individuals identified 49 genes as drivers of downstream transcriptional changes (P< 7 × 10−10), among which transcription factors were overrepresented (P= 3.3 × 10−7). Our analysis suggests new gene functions and targets including forSENP7(zinc-finger genes involved in retroviral repression) andBCL2A1(novel target genes possibly involved in auditory dysfunction). Our work highlights the utility of population genomics data in deriving directed gene expression networks. A resource oftrans-effects for all 6,600 genes with a genetic instrument can be explored individually using a web-based browser.
Expansion and diversification of the gibberellin receptor GIBBERELLIN INSENSITIVE DWARF1 (GID1) family in land plants
Authors: Gazara Rajesh K. , Moharana Kanhu C. , Bellieny-Rabelo Daniel , Venancio Thiago M.
Published: November 2017

Gibberellic acid (gibberellins, GA) controls key developmental processes in the life-cycle of land plants. By interacting with the GIBBERELLIN INSENSITIVE DWARF1 (GID1) receptor, GA regulates the expression of a wide range of genes through different pathways. Here we report the systematic identification and classification of GID1s in 52 plants genomes, encompassing from bryophytes and lycophytes, to several monocots and eudicots. We investigated the evolutionary relationship of GID1s using a comparative genomics framework and found strong support a previously proposed phylogenetic classification of this family in land plants. We identified lineage-specific expansions of particular subfamilies (i.e. GID1ac and GID1b) in different eudicot lineages (e.g. GID1b in legumes). Further, we found both, shared and divergent structural features between GID1ac and GID1b subgroups in eudicots, which provide mechanistic insights on their functions. Gene expression data from several species show that at least one GID1 gene is expressed in every sampled tissue, with a strong bias of GID1b expression towards underground tissues and dry legume seeds (typically with low GA levels). Taken together, our results support that GID1ac retained canonical GA signaling roles, whereas GID1b specialized in conditions of low GA concentrations. We propose that this functional specialization occurred initially at the gene expression level and was later fine-tuned by specific mutations that conferred greater GA affinity to GID1b, including a Phe residue in the GA-binding pocket. Finally, we discuss the importance of our findings to understand the diversification of GA perception mechanisms in land plants.
Transcription start site analysis reveals widespread divergent transcription in D. melanogaster and core promoter-encoded enhancer activities
Authors: Rennie Sarah , Dalby Maria , Lloret-Llinares Marta , Bakoulis Stylianos , Dalager Vaagensø Christian , Jensen Torben Heick , Andersson Robin
Published: November 2017

Mammalian gene promoters and enhancers share many properties. They are composed of a unified promoter architecture of divergent transcripton initiation and gene promoters may exhibit enhancer function. However, it is currently unclear how expression strength of a regulatory element relates to its enhancer strength and if the unifying architecture is conserved across Metazoa. Here we investigate the transcription initiation landscape and its associated RNA decay in D. melanogaster. Surprisingly, we find that the majority of active gene-distal enhancers and a considerable fraction of gene promoters are divergently transcribed. We observe quantitative relationships between enhancer potential, expression level and core promoter strength, providing an explanation for indirectly related histone modifications that are reflecting expression levels. Lowly abundant unstable RNAs initiated from weak core promoters are key characteristics of gene-distal developmental enhancers, while the housekeeping enhancer strengths of gene promoters reflect their expression strengths. The different layers of regulation mediated by gene-distal enhancers and gene promoters are also reflected in chromatin interaction data. Our results suggest a unified promoter architecture of many D. melanogaster regulatory elements, that is universal across Metazoa, whose regulatory functions seem to be related to their core promoter elements.
Meditope–Fab interaction: threading the hole
Authors: Bzymek Krzysztof P. , Ma Yuelong , Avery Kendra N. , Horne David A. , Williams John C.
Published: November 2017

Meditope, a cyclic 12-residue peptide, binds to a unique binding side between the light and heavy chains of the cetuximab Fab. In an effort to improve the affinity of the interaction, it was sought to extend the side chain of Arg8 in the meditope, a residue that is accessible from the other side of the meditope binding site, in order to increase the number of interactions. These modifications included an n-butyl and n-octyl extension as well as hydroxyl, amine and carboxyl substitutions. The atomic structures of the complexes and the binding kinetics for each modified meditope indicated that each extension threaded through the Fab `hole' and that the carboxyethylarginine substitution makes a favorable interaction with the Fab, increasing the half-life of the complex by threefold compared with the unmodified meditope. Taken together, these studies provide a basis for the design of additional modifications to enhance the overall affinity of this unique interaction.
3D textile reconstruction based on KinectFusion and synthesized texture
Authors: Hu PengPeng , Komura Taku , Li Duan , Wu Ge , Zhong Yueqi
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a novel framework of reconstructing the 3D textile model with synthesized texture.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a pipeline of 3D textile reconstruction based on KinectFusion is proposed to obtain a better 3D model. Second, “DeepTextures” method is applied to generate new textures for various three-dimensional textile models.

Findings

Experimental results show that the proposed method can conveniently reconstruct a three-dimensional textile model with synthesized texture.

Originality/value

A novel pipeline is designed to obtain 3D high-quality textile models based on KinectFusion. The accuracy and robustness of KinectFusion are improved via a turntable. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper to explore the synthesized textile texture for the 3D textile model. This is not only simply mapping the texture onto the 3D model, but also exploring the application of artificial intelligence in the field of textile.
Police leadership: the challenges for developing contemporary practice
Authors: Davis Claire , Bailey Di
Published: November 2017

Purpose

In recent years, police leadership integrity and standards have been positioned as central to the professionalisation agenda of the police service England and Wales (College of Policing, 2015). The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges for developing innovative, more people-oriented approaches to leadership in a command environment like the police.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach in one UK police constabulary was adopted. In all, 38 semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior police officers from chief constable to inspector rank. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed.

Findings

Police officers drew on managerial and command discourses in their understandings of leadership. Perceptions of the situation, particularly in terms of perceived risk and visibility, influenced leadership practices in the constabulary.

Originality/value

Current research and policy places emphasis on “what works” in police leadership; the meanings of leadership to police officers is overshadowed by a focus on effectiveness. Through the use of semi-structured interviews, this research captures police leaders’ understandings of themselves and their leadership. The findings reveal that, at a time when police leadership needs to become more innovative and people focussed, the pressures and complexities of contemporary policing mean that police officers retreat to leadership that is command-based and driven by the primacy of business needs.
Does Islamic equity investment provide diversification benefits to conventional investors? Evidence from the multivariate GARCH analysis
Authors: Saiti Buerhan , Noordin Nazrul Hazizi
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to quantify the extent to which the Malaysia-based equity investors can benefit from diversifying their portfolio into the conventional and Islamic Southeast Asian region and the world’s top ten largest equity indices (China, Japan, Hong Kong, India, the UK, the USA, Canada, France, Germany and Switzerland).

Design/methodology/approach

The multivariate GARCH-dynamic conditional correlation is deployed to estimate the time-varying linkages of the selected conventional and Islamic Asian and international stock index returns with the Malaysian stock index returns, covering approximately eight years daily starting from 29 June 2007 to 30 June 2016.

Findings

In general, in terms of volatility, the results indicate that both Asian and international Islamic stock indices are more or less volatile than its conventional counterparts. From the correlation analysis, we can see that both the conventional and Islamic MSCI indices of Japan provide more diversification benefits compared to Southeast Asian region, China, Hong Kong and India. Meanwhile, in terms of international portfolio diversification, the results tend to suggest that both the conventional and Islamic MSCI indices of the USA provide more diversification benefits compared to the UK, Canada, France, Germany and Switzerland.

Originality/value

The findings of this paper may have several significant implications for the Malaysia-based equity investors and fund managers who seek for the understanding of return correlations between the Malaysian stock index and the world’s largest stock market indices in order to gain higher risk-adjusted returns through portfolio diversification. With regard to policy implications, the findings on market shocks and the extent of the interdependence of the Malaysian market with cross-border markets may provide some useful insights in formulating effective macroeconomic stabilization policies in the efforts of preventing contagion effect from deteriorating the domestic economy.
A novel technique to compute static and dynamic performance characteristics of aerostatic thrust bearing
Authors: Yadav Saurabh Kumar , Rajput Arvind Kumar , Ram Nathi , Sharma Satish Chandra
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the dynamic performance of aerostatic thrust bearing for different geometries of recess. Different geometries of recess of equal recess area, i.e. circular, elliptical, rectangular and annular, have been considered in analysis. The work also analyzes the influence of tilt angle on the performance of thrust bearing. To compute the unknown pressure field, the Reynolds equation governing the flow of compressible lubricant (air) has been solved using finite element formulation. Further, separate finite element formulations have been carried out to compute fluid film stiffness and damping coefficients directly. This method provides quick computation of stiffness and damping coefficients of aerostatic thrust bearing than the usual approach.

Design/methodology/approach

As the Reynolds equation governing the flow of compressible lubricant is nonlinear partial differential equation, the computation of the stiffness and damping coefficient follows an iterative procedure. It requires a lot of computational energy. Therefore, in the present work, a novel technique based on finite element formulation is suggested to compute air film stiffness and damping coefficient in aerostatic thrust bearing.

Findings

A novel technique based on finite element formulation is illustrated to simulate the performance of tilted pad aerostatic thrust bearing. On the basis of simulated results, following key conclusions may be drawn. The static and dynamic performance of a circular aerostatic tilted thrust pad bearing is significantly affected with a change in the value of tilt parameter and the shape of the recess.

Research limitations/implications

Implications are as follows: direct computation of air film damping coefficient is performed without perturbation method in finite element method (FEM); influence of tilt on aerostatic thrust bearing is studied; influence of recess shape on aerostatic thrust bearing is observed; and finite element formulation of aerostatic thrust bearing is performed.

Originality/value

The present work will be quite useful for bearing designer and academicians.
Preparation and tribological properties of BN/calcium borate nanocomposites as additive in lubricating oil
Authors: Yang Yanfei , Wang Xiaobo , Mei Sen , Zhu Xing , Chen Shiqiang , Xiong Peng , Hu Zhihai , Xiong Kun , Yuan Dong Song
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the tribological performance and mechanisms of BN/calcium borate nanocomposites (BCBNs) as additives in lubricating oil.

Design/methodology/approach

BCBNs were prepared by heterogeneous deposition method. And the morphology and structure of samples were analysed by transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra and X-ray powder diffraction pattern. The maximum non-seizure load (PB) of samples was tested using four-ball friction tester. The average friction coefficients and wear tracks were obtained. In addition, tribological mechanism was also investigated using optical microscope, energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscope.

Findings

It was found that the nanocomposites present core-shell nanostructure with the thickness of shell around 12 nm and the diameter of particles 100-200 nm, and tribological tests indicate that the PB value of BCBNs was increased by 113 per cent, whereas the average friction coefficient was decreased by 23.6 per cent and the bloom’s wear area was also decreased by 25.2 per cent.

Originality/value

This paper involves investigation on tribological properties and mechanism of the BCBNs with core-shell structure.
How do principals practise leadership for social justice in diverse school settings? A Hong Kong case study
Authors: Szeto Elson , Cheng Annie Yan Ni
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Empirical research on leadership for social justice is in progress in many parts of the world. The purpose of this paper is to explore principals’ school-leadership journeys in response to social-justice issues caused by specific contextual changes at times of uncertainty. It seeks to answer the following key questions: What social-justice issues do principals identify as arising from their schools’ transformation due to contextual changes? How do principals practise leadership for social justice in response to these contextual changes at different levels?

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on qualitative data from a cross-case study of two principals’ school-leadership journeys. The authors pay particular attention to the understanding of leadership for social justice grounded in principals’ efforts to foster equality in learning development for a diverse student population.

Findings

Timely adverse conditions may be required to foster leadership for social justice in schools. The principals reacted to contextual changes at several levels, planning and implementing innovative and flexible interventions to ensure equality in students’ learning development. These findings contribute to international accounts of educational leadership.

Research limitations/implications

This study of leadership for social justice in schools is contextually specific. Therefore, more empirical comparisons of school leadership are required in future studies, as principals’ practices vary between education settings.

Originality/value

This paper offers insights into the evolution of leadership for social justice in schools in response to contextual changes. Principals’ leadership strategies can be reoriented and their actions reshaped to overcome threats to social justice in schools. Accordingly, although leadership for social justice in school communities is culturally and pedagogically inclusive, it is also socially distinctive.
The trustworthiness of internet-based quality signals: an interactivity perspective
Authors: Ni Wenbin , Sun Hongyi
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This study aims to examine the trustworthiness of internet-based quality signals (specifically webpages and before-sale services) from the perspective of interactivity by evaluating the associations between on-line signals of product quality and the off-line perceived quality of actual products.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical data are collected from 261 Chinese female university students. Partial least squares structural equation modelling is used to test the conceptual model.

Findings

Both webpages and before-sale services are positively associated with off-line perceived quality, but only the quality of before-sale service has a direct association with customer satisfaction. Webpages and before-sale services are both trustworthy signals for indicating the quality of physical products; however, these signals provide different levels of trustworthiness.

Research limitations/implications

The interactivity perspective supplements information-economics theory in examining the trustworthiness of internet-based signals. A signal is a trustworthy indicator only if customers perceive a close relationship between the quality of the signal and the actual product quality.

Practical implications

On-line sellers should improve the reciprocity and controllability of communications from a buyer’s perspective and should pay more attention to the strategic role of on-line communication for improving customer service.

Originality/value

Researchers have evaluated the trustworthiness of on-line quality signals from an information-economics perspective. This study extends these previous studies by addressing the perspective of interactivity. Two types of product-quality signals, including webpages and before-sale services, are assessed in terms of their trustworthiness by examining how these signals relate to off-line perceived quality and customer satisfaction.
Investigating entrepreneurial success factors of women-owned SMEs in UAE
Authors: Gupta Namrata , Mirchandani Anita
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the key factors affecting the success of women entrepreneurs who own and manage Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in UAE. The extant literature on the relationship between determinants of entrepreneurial success points to a lack of clarification of the link between success factors (Personal, environmental and other) and performance of women-owned SMEs particularly in UAE.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administered questionnaire, through mail survey, is used to collect the data. Cronbach’s α test and factor analysis have been carried out to test the reliability of data and validate the hypothesis.

Findings

The results suggested that the personal, environmental factors and government support affect positively and significantly to the success of women-owned SMEs in UAE.

Research limitations/implications

The study has some limits as to its potential for generalization owing to the sample size, wide geographic spread of respondents and time limitations with the respondents.

Practical implications

The results indicate that several factors including personal, environmental and government support are linked with the success of women entrepreneurs of UAE. The results of this study will provide some insights to policymakers and business practitioners to formulate the strategies intended to promote unveiled potential among women entrepreneurs in UAE.

Originality/value

Most of the studies focused on women entrepreneurship have taken either their motives or the hurdles faced by them into consideration. Moreover, only a few studies have been carried out in Arab world particularly in UAE. Therefore, this study is an attempt to fill the gap and contribute to a better understanding of UAE’s women-owned SMEs.
Post-PhD researchers’ experiences: an emotionally rocky road
Authors: Skakni Isabelle , McAlpine Lynn
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This study aims to examine how post-PhD researchers construct their identities through significant work experiences as they endeavour to develop their research independence and a distinct scholarly profile. The authors were especially interested in how they made meaning of their important work experiences, the ones that were emotionally salient.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a narrative approach, the analysis was conducted on a data subset from a large cross-national mixed-methods research project about early-career researchers’ identity development. The sample included 71 post-PhD researchers from the UK who completed an online survey. Ten of whom were also interviewed through a semi-structured protocol.

Findings

Post-PhD researchers considered work experiences to be significant when those experiences helped them to gauge whether their self-representation as researchers was coherent and a further research career was practicable. The same type of significant event (e.g. publishing in a prestigious journal) could hold different meanings depending on who experienced it. Positive experiences helped to maintain their motivation and made them feel that they were consolidating their identities. Negative experiences tended to challenge their sense of identity and their sense of belonging to academia. Whereas positive feelings towards a significant experience appeared to persist over time, negative feelings seemed to fade or evolve through self-reflection, but ultimately had greater saliency.

Originality/value

Few previous studies have been conducted on how emotionally powerful work experiences influence post-PhD researchers’ identity development. Besides highlighting how emotions and feelings, often-neglected aspects of identity development, influence the process, this study offers a constructive – and, in some ways, alternative – view of the impact that negative experiences have on their identity development.
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4): Targeting endothelial nitric oxide synthase as a potential therapy for pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Francis Bahaa N. , Salameh Maram , Khamisy‐Farah Rola , Farah Raymond
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is complex disease which is associated with endothelial and cardiac dysfunction. Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) regulates endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) to produce nitric oxide rather than superoxide which maintains normal endothelial and cardiac function. This study explores the therapeutic potential of BH4 in experimental PH.

Methods

Monocrotaline‐induced PH in rats and Hph‐1 deficiency in mice were used for animal experiments. Hemodynamic measurements using pressure transducers were conducted for pulmonary and cardiac pressures, and Langendorff apparatus was used for isolated heart experiments; preventive as well as rescue treatment protocols were conducted; tissues were collected for histological and biochemical studies.

Results

In vivo acute BH4 administration reduced pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) only in the MCT rat. In a Langendorff preparation, BH4 increased right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) in right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH) but not in control. In “prevention” therapy, BH4 (10 and 100 mg/kg) attenuated the development of PH in rat MCT model. eNOS protein levels in lung homogenates were maintained and cGMP levels were increased. In “rescue” therapy, BH4 (10 and 100 mg/kg) ameliorated pulmonary vascular muscularization in a dose‐dependent manner. RVSP was reduced in RVH and pulmonary vascular muscularization was attenuated. BH4 at 10 mg/kg reduced RV myocyte diameter while BH4 at 100 mg/kg reversed it to control level. BH4 restored normal levels of eNOS protein and in a dose of 100 mg/kg enhanced lung tissue levels of BH4, cGMP, and NO compared to placebo.

Conclusion

The current study provides scientific evidence for a therapeutic potential of BH4 in PH and invites further investigation.
Deployment‐Related Military Sexual Trauma Predicts Heavy Drinking and Alcohol Problems Among Male Reserve and National Guard Soldiers
Authors: Fillo Jennifer , Heavey Sarah Cercone , Homish D. Lynn , Homish Gregory G.
Published: November 2017

Background

Military sexual trauma (MST) is associated with a range of deleterious mental and physical health consequences; however, far less attention has been paid to the associations between MST and negative health behaviors, such as substance abuse. This study examined 2 focal research questions: (i) What is the prevalence of experiencing MST during deployment among male Reserve and National Guard soldiers? and (ii) to what extent is the degree of MST exposure during deployment associated with frequent heavy drinking and alcohol problems postdeployment?

Methods

Data from male soldiers who had been deployed (N = 248) were drawn from the baseline wave of Operation: SAFETY (Soldiers And Families Excelling Through the Years) an ongoing study examining health among U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard and their partners. Participants were recruited over a 15‐month period (Summer 2014 to Fall 2015) from units in New York State. Deployments occurred prior to the baseline wave of the study. Analyses examined the relation between degree of MST exposure during soldiers’ most recent deployment and (i) frequent heavy drinking and (ii) alcohol problems, measured at baseline, controlling for posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and age.

Results

17.3% of the male service members reported experiencing MST during their most recent deployment. Further, greater MST exposure was associated with a greater likelihood of engaging in frequent heavy drinking (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] = 1.03, 95% CI [1.01, 1.05]) and experiencing alcohol problems (aRR = 1.03, 95% CI [1.01, 1.06]) at baseline.

Conclusions

Findings demonstrate that MST rates are high among male Reserve and National Guard soldiers, and greater MST exposure is associated with an increased likelihood of engaging in frequent heavy drinking and experiencing alcohol problems among a population already at risk for problematic alcohol use.
Perspectives in allergen immunotherapy: 2017 and beyond
Authors: Pfaar O. , Bonini S. , Cardona V. , Demoly P. , Jakob T. , Jutel M. , Kleine‐Tebbe J. , Klimek L. , Klysner S. , Kopp M. V. , Kuna P. , Larché M. , Muraro A. , Schmidt‐Weber C. B. , Shamji M. H. , Simonsen K. , Somoza C. , Valovirta E. , Zieglmayer P. , Zuberbier T. , Wahn U. ,   the FASIT group
Published: November 2017

The Future of the Allergists and Specific Immunotherapy (FASIT) workshop provides a regular platform for global experts from academia, allergy clinics, regulatory authorities and industry to review developments in the field of allergen immunotherapy (AIT). The most recent meeting, held in February 2017, had two main themes: advances in AIT and hot topics in AIT from the regulatory point of view. The first theme covered opportunities for personalized AIT, advances in adjuvants and delivery systems, and the development of new molecules and future vaccines for AIT. Key topics in the second part of the meeting were the effects of the enactment of European Directive 2001/83 on the availability of allergens for therapy and diagnosis across the EU, the challenges of conducting Phase 3 studies in the field, the future role of allergen exposure chambers in AIT studies and specific considerations in performing AIT studies in the paediatric population. Finally, the group highlighted the forthcoming EAACI guidelines and their particular importance for the standardization of practice in the treatment of allergies. This review presents a comprehensive insight into those panel discussions and highlights unmet needs and also possible solutions to them for the future.
Review demonstrates that less invasive surfactant administration in preterm neonates leads to fewer complications
Authors: Gortner Ludwig , Schüller Simone S. , Herting Egbert
Published: November 2017

Surfactant treatment of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) was introduced in Europe during the 1990s. Meta‐analyses have indicated that using less invasive surfactant administration techniques on preterm neonates receiving continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) results in improved survival rates without bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Surfactant should be administered early and ventilator settings adapted to changing oxygen requirements and lung mechanics. Side effects including initial bradycardia, oxygen desaturation, tube obstruction and isolated cases of pulmonary haemorrhage have been reported.

Conclusion

Less invasive surfactant therapy improves pulmonary outcomes in preterm neonates with RDS and should ideally be administered in combination with CPAP.
Children with optic nerve hypoplasia face a high risk of neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Dahl Sara , Wickström Ronny , Ek Ulla , Teär Fahnehjelm Kristina
Published: November 2017

Aim

Optic nerve hypoplasia (ONH) is a congenital ocular malformation that has been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, but the prevalence in unilateral disease and less severe visual impairment is unknown. We studied intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in patients with ONH.

Methods

This was a population‐based cross‐sectional cohort study of 65 patients (33 female) with ONH below 20 years of age, living in Stockholm in December 2009, with data analysed in January 2016. Of these 35 were bilateral and 30 were unilateral. Neurodevelopmental disorders were diagnosed or confirmed by neurological assessments, the Five to Fifteen parent questionnaire and reviewing previous neuropsychological investigations or conducting neuropsychological tests.

Results

Bilateral ONH patients had lower mean full scale intelligence quotient scores than unilateral patients (84.4 and 99.4, respectively, p = 0.049). We assessed intellectual disability in 55 eligible patients, and it was more common in patients with bilateral ONH (18 of 32, 56%) than unilateral ONH (two of 23, 9%, p < 0.001). ASDs were diagnosed in seven of 42 (17%) patients.

Conclusion

Children with bilateral ONH had a high risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, especially intellectual disability. The risk was lower in unilateral ONH, but the levels of neurodevelopmental disorders warrant screening of both groups.
Ethics ≠ Law
Authors: Dekeyser Thomas , Garrett Bradley L.
Published: November 2017

There is an ongoing movement towards situated and relational, rather than static and transcendental, understandings of research ethics within Geography. Yet this tendency has not yet succeeded in destabilising a priori judgements of ethnographic engagements with unlawful spatial practices. As such, many socially and politically important projects are either sidelined or eschewed for fear of liability or complicity. In cases where ethnography is deployed, primarily in the field of participatory action research, the tensions between ethics and legality are not often explicitly engaged with. We want to suggest here, in light of increasing interest amongst geographers in “subversive” spatial practices, that ethnographies of illegality raise a range of important ethical concerns for research practices that also inform broader understandings of situated ethical frameworks. In this vein, the authors draw on past and ongoing ethnographic experiences into illicit spatial practices (or what criminologists have termed “edge ethnographies”) to think through the entire process of research engagement – from planning to data retention – with consideration to the incommensurable relationship between ethics and law where we take situated ethics seriously.
The association between atopic dermatitis and hand eczema: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ruff S.M.D. , Engebretsen K.A. , Zachariae C. , Johansen J.D. , Silverberg J.I. , Egeberg A. , Thyssen J.P.
Published: November 2017

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) and hand eczema (HE) are common chronic and relapsing inflammatory skin conditions that often co-occur.

Objectives

While several studies have addressed their relationship, the exact association estimate is unknown.

Methods

We systematically reviewed published literature on the association between AD and HE in PubMed, Embase and Web of Science using the following search terms: (atopic dermatitis OR atopic eczema) AND (hand dermatitis OR hand eczema). Meta-analyses were then performed to examine the association between AD and the point, 1-year and lifetime prevalence of HE, respectively.

Results

We identified 35 relevant studies, of which 26 were included in the meta-analyses. AD was associated with an increased prevalence of HE with regard to point [odds ratio (OR) 2·35; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·47–3·76], 1-year (OR 4·29; 95% CI 3·13–5·88) and lifetime prevalence (OR 4·06; 95% CI 2·72–6·06). Furthermore, positive associations between AD and occupational HE were identified when assessing the 1-year (OR 4·31; 95% CI 2·08–8·91) and lifetime prevalence (OR 2·81; 95% CI 2·08–3·79). Similar positive associations were found in the general population studies, i.e. OR 4·19 (95% CI 3·46–5·08) and OR 5·69 (95% CI 4·41–7·36).

Conclusions

Important study limitations include the wide use of questionnaire studies, and lack of prospective studies as well as poor clinical phenotype descriptions. In conclusion, our systematic review and meta-analysis showed that patients with AD had a strongly increased prevalence of HE. Clinicians should continue to guide patients with AD away from occupations with a high risk of HE.
ASC amino acid transporter 2, defined by enzyme‐mediated activation of radical sources, enhances malignancy of GD2‐positive small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Esaki Nobutoshi , Ohkawa Yuki , Hashimoto Noboru , Tsuda Yuhsuke , Ohmi Yuhsuke , Bhuiyan Robiul H. , Kotani Norihiro , Honke Koichi , Enomoto Atsushi , Takahashi Masahide , Furukawa Keiko , Furukawa Koichi
Published: November 2017

Ganglioside GD2 is specifically expressed in small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) cells, leading to enhancement of malignant phenotypes, such as cell proliferation and migration. However, how GD2 promotes malignant phenotypes in SCLC cells is not well known. In this study, to reveal the mechanisms by which GD2 increases malignant phenotypes in SCLC cells, we used enzyme‐mediated activation of radical sources combined with mass spectrometry in GD2+ SCLC cells. Consequently, we identified ASC amino acid transporter 2 (ASCT2), a major glutamine transporter, which coordinately works with GD2. We showed that ASCT2 was highly expressed in glycolipid‐enriched microdomain/rafts in GD2+ SCLC cells, and colocalized with GD2 in both proximity ligation assay and immunocytostaining, and bound with GD2 in immunoprecipitation/TLC immunostaining. Malignant phenotypes of GD2+ SCLC cells were enhanced by glutamine uptake, and were suppressed by L‐γ‐glutamyl‐p‐nitroanilide, a specific inhibitor of ASCT2, through reduced phosphorylation of p70 S6K1 and S6. These results suggested that ASCT2 enhances glutamine uptake in glycolipid‐enriched microdomain/rafts in GD2+ SCLC cells, leading to the enhancement of cell proliferation and migration through increased phosphorylation of the mTOR complex 1 signaling axis.
Detection of circulating tumor cells in cervical cancer using a conditionally replicative adenovirus targeting telomerase‐positive cells
Authors: Takakura Masahiro , Matsumoto Takeo , Nakamura Mitsuhiro , Mizumoto Yasunari , Myojyo Subaru , Yamazaki Rena , Iwadare Jyunpei , Bono Yukiko , Orisaka Shunsuke , Obata Takeshi , Iizuka Takashi , Kagami Kyosuke , Nakayama Kentaro , Hayakawa Hideki , Sakurai Fuminori , Mizuguchi Hiroyuki , Urata Yasuo , Fujiwara Toshiyoshi , Kyo Satoru , Sasagawa Toshiyuki , Fujiwara Hiroshi
Published: November 2017

Circulating tumor cells (CTC) are newly discovered biomarkers of cancers. Although many systems detect CTC, a gold standard has not yet been established. We analyzed CTC in uterine cervical cancer patients using an advanced version of conditionally replicative adenovirus targeting telomerase‐positive cells, which was enabled to infect coxsackievirus‐adenovirus receptor‐negative cells and to reduce false‐positive signals in myeloid cells. Blood samples from cervical cancer patients were hemolyzed and infected with the virus and then labeled with fluorescent anti‐CD45 and anti‐pan cytokeratin antibodies. GFP (+)/CD45 (−) cells were isolated and subjected to whole‐genome amplification followed by polymerase chain reaction analysis of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA. CTC were detected in 6 of 23 patients with cervical cancers (26.0%). Expression of CTC did not correlate with the stage of cancer or other clinicopathological factors. In 5 of the 6 CTC‐positive cases, the same subtype of HPV DNA as that of the corresponding primary lesion was detected, indicating that the CTC originated from HPV‐infected cancer cells. These CTC were all negative for cytokeratins. The CTC detected by our system were genetically confirmed. CTC derived from uterine cervical cancers had lost epithelial characteristics, indicating that epithelial marker‐dependent systems do not have the capacity to detect these cells in cervical cancer patients.
Is There a Downside to Anticipating the Upside? Children's and Adults’ Reasoning About How Prior Expectations Shape Future Emotions
Authors: Lara Karen Hjortsvang , Lagattuta Kristin Hansen , Kramer Hannah J.
Published: November 2017

Four‐ to 10‐year‐olds and adults (N = 205) responded to vignettes involving three individuals with different expectations (high, low, and no) for a future event. Participants judged characters’ pre‐outcome emotions, as well as predicted and explained their feelings following three events (positive, attenuated, and negative). Although adults rated high‐expectation characters more negatively than low‐expectation characters after all outcomes, children shared this intuition starting at 6–7 years for negative outcomes, 8–10 years for attenuated, and never for positive. Comparison to baseline (no expectation) indicated that understanding the costs of high expectations emerges first and remains more robust across age than recognition that low expectations carry benefits. Explanation analyses further clarified this developing awareness about the relation between thoughts and emotions over time.
Coincidence of pollen season with the first fetal trimester together with early pet exposure is associated with sensitization to cat and dog allergens in early childhood: A Finnish population‐based study
Authors: Pyrhönen K. , Kulmala P. , Näyhä S.
Published: November 2017

Background

Children whose 11th fetal week falls in pollen season (spring) reportedly have an increased risk of sensitization to food allergens. No such finding has been reported for pet allergens.

Objective

The aim of the study was to (i) evaluate the incidence of pet (dog and cat) sensitization according to the season of the 11th fetal week and (ii) whether the association between pet exposure and respective sensitization is modified by the coincidence of the 11th fetal week with pollen season.

Methods

The study population comprised all children (born between 2001 and 2006) in the province of South Karelia, Finland (N = 5920). Their data of immunoglobulin E antibodies and skin prick tests to pet allergens (N = 538) were collected from patient records and linked with questionnaire data on pet exposure.

Results

The seasonal incidence peak of cat sensitization was observed in children whose 11th fetal week occurred in June (7.4%) and that of dog sensitization in April (3.8%) and June (4.7%). The relative rate (RR) for cat sensitization was 2.92 (95% CI 1.40‐6.08) in children with cat exposure alone, 8.53 (4.07‐17.86) in children with cat and fetal pollen exposures and 0.61 (0.20‐1.83) in children exposed to pollen alone, compared with children without these exposures. The respective RRs for dog sensitization were 2.17 (1.13‐4.19), 4.40 (2.19‐8.83) and 1.65 (0.77‐3.53).

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Coincidence of the first fetal trimester with pollen season strengthens the association between pet exposure and respective sensitization. Pollen exposure at early pregnancy may deviate immune system towards Th2‐type reactivity promoting development of specific allergy in case allergen exposure occurred. Therefore, primary prevention of allergic diseases may need to begin during early pregnancy.
Knockdown of ubiquitin D inhibits adipogenesis during the differentiation of porcine intramuscular and subcutaneous preadipocytes
Authors: Zhao Chen , Yao Xiangping , Chen Xiaochang , Wu Wenjing , Xi Fengxue , Yang Gongshe , Yu Taiyong
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Intramuscular fat (IMF) has a significant influence on porcine meat quality. Ubiquitin D (UBD) is involved in the management of diverse intracellular processes. However, its physiological functions in adipose cell differentiation and proliferation are still poorly defined.

Materials and methods

Intramuscular and subcutaneous preadipocytes were isolated from the longissimus dorsi and neck subcutaneous deposits of Chinese native Guanzhong Black piglets (3‐5 days old), respectively. Lentivirus with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) for UBD was applied to knockdown UBD expression. We used real‐time PCR and Western blot analysis to detect gene expression. Lipid droplets were dyed with Oil Red O, and cell proliferation was assessed using flow cytometry, 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine incorporation and cell counting assays.

Results

Lipogenesis through the Akt/mTOR pathway was inhibited when preadipocytes were transfected with UBD shRNA. The expression of adipogenic genes and the number of lipid droplets were obviously diminished. Moreover, repression of UBD attenuated cell proliferation. UBD downregulation resulted in cell cycle arrest because of a decreased proportion of S‐phase cells, and the expression of positive cell proliferation markers was significantly decreased.

Conclusion

These observations illustrated that knockdown of UBD partially suppressed porcine intramuscular and subcutaneous preadipocyte adipogenesis through the Akt/mTOR signalling and inhibited cell proliferation, suggesting the essential role of UBD in the differentiation of preadipocytes.
Effect of HMG CoA reductase inhibitors on the development of chronic lung allograft dysfunction
Authors: Szczepanik Amanda , Hulbert Amanda , Lee Hui‐Jie , Benedetti Clark , Snyder Laurie , Byrns Jennifer
Published: November 2017

Lung transplant recipients (LRs) have a reduced median 5‐year survival of approximately 55% primarily due to chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD). Statins have anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that may facilitate CLAD prevention. This study sought to evaluate statin effect on CLAD development. Adult bilateral LRs from January 2004 to October 2013 were included. Statin group included recipients with early statin use and continued for minimum 6 months. Propensity score matching was performed for age, gender, and native lung disease to select matched nonstatin group. Competing risk approach was used to evaluate statin effect on CLAD development at 3 years while controlling for acute rejection and CMV pneumonitis. A total of 130 patients were included in each group. CLAD cumulative incidence at 3 years for statin and nonstatin groups was 20.6% (CI: 11.8%‐33.5%) and 22.4% (CI: 12.2%‐27.3%). Statin use was not associated with a decreased risk of CLAD (subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR]: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.55‐1.59, P = .80) but was associated with a decreased risk of death (SHR: 0.45, CI: 0.22‐0.90, P = .024). At 3 years, patient survival was 81.7% in statin group and 68.3% in nonstatin group (P = .012). Statins did not significantly delay the time to development of CLAD in LR but did demonstrate a benefit in patient survival.
Patient‐reported outcome measures for young people with developmental disabilities: incorporation of design features to reduce cognitive demands
Authors: Schwartz Ariel E , Kramer Jessica M , Longo Angela L
Published: November 2017

Use of patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) may increase the involvement of young people with developmental disabilities in their healthcare decisions and healthcare‐related research. Young people with developmental disabilities may have difficulty completing PROMs because of extraneous assessment demands that require additional cognitive processes. However, PROM design features may mitigate the impact of these demands. We identified and evaluated six pediatric PROMs of self‐care and domestic life tasks for the incorporation of suggested design features that can reduce cognitive demands. PROMs incorporated an average of 6 out of 11 content, 7 out of 14 layout, and 2 out of 9 administration features. This critical review identified two primary gaps in PROM design: (1) examples and visuals were not optimized to reduce cognitive demands; and (2) administration features that support young people's motivation and self‐efficacy and reduce frustration were underutilized. Because assessment demands impact the validity of PROMs, clinicians should prospectively consider the impact of these demands when selecting PROMs and interpreting scores.

What this paper adds

Patient‐reported outcome measure (PROM) design features can reduce assessment demands related to cognitive processes.

Pediatric PROMs underutilize design features that decrease cognitive demands of self‐reporting.
Risk of a first‐ever acute myocardial infarction and all‐cause mortality with sulphonylurea treatment: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: van Dalem Judith , Brouwers Martijn C. G. J. , Stehouwer Coen D. A. , Krings André , Klungel Olaf H. , Driessen Johanna H. M. , de Vries Frank , Burden Andrea M.
Published: November 2017

We investigated the association between the current use of individual sulphonylureas and the risk of a first‐ever acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and all‐cause mortality, in a population‐based cohort study, using primary care data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink database (2004‐2012). New users (N = 121 869), aged ≥18 years, with at least one prescription for a non‐insulin antidiabetic agent were included. The first prescription defined start of follow‐up. Time‐dependent Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the risk of a first‐ever AMI and all‐cause mortality associated with the use of individual sulphonylureas, and other non‐insulin glucose‐lowering drugs. No differences in risk of a first‐ever AMI (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.70‐1.50) or all‐cause mortality (adjusted HR 0.97, 95% CI 0.80‐1.17) were observed when comparing gliclazide use with non‐gliclazide sulphonylurea use. Similar results were found for each individual sulphonylurea. As evidence is accumulating that gliclazide is no safer than other sulphonylureas, current guidelines suggesting superiority should be carefully evaluated.