bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lung Mycobacterium avium developed after removing an acupuncture needle from the lung
Authors: Saito Mikihito , Kasai Hajime , Shimazu Kengo , Urushibara Takashi , Iida Tomohiko , Shinozaki Toshihide
Published: November 2017

Acupuncture needles can cause non‐tuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM) infection on the skin, but there are no reports that acupuncture needles inserted into the lung have caused lung NTM infection. A 63‐year‐old woman, who underwent removal of a broken acupuncture needle inserted into the lung nine years ago, was admitted with nodules in the right lung. The shadow was positioned where the needle had existed. Partial lung resection of the right lower lobe was performed, and the resected area showed caseous necrosis histopathologically. Furthermore, Mycobacterium avium was cultured from the specimen. When abnormal lung shadows are located where a resected foreign body appeared, NTM infection should be considered.
Role of SDF-1:CXCR4 in Impaired Post-Myocardial Infarction Cardiac Repair in Diabetes
Authors: Mayorga Maritza E. , Kiedrowski Matthew , McCallinhart Patricia , Forudi Farhad , Ockunzzi Jeremiah , Weber Kristal , Chilian William , Penn Marc S. , Dong Feng
Published: November 2017

Diabetes is a risk factor for worse outcomes following acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In this study, we tested the hypothesis that SDF-1:CXCR4 expression is compromised in post-AMI in diabetes, and that reversal of this defect can reverse the adverse effects of diabetes. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) isolated from green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgenic mice (control MSC) were induced to overexpress stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1). SDF-1 expression in control MSC and SDF-1-overexpressing MSC (SDF-1:MSC) were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). AMI was induced on db/db and control mice. Mice were randomly selected to receive infusion of control MSC, SDF-1:MSC, or saline into the border zone after AMI. Serial echocardiography was used to assess cardiac function. SDF-1 and CXCR4 mRNA expression in the infarct zone of db/db mice and control mice were quantified. Compared to control mice, SDF-1 levels were decreased 82%, 91%, and 45% at baseline, 1 day and 3 days post-AMI in db/db mice, respectively. CXCR4 levels are increased 233% at baseline and 54% 5 days post-AMI in db/db mice. Administration of control MSC led to a significant improvement in ejection fraction (EF) in control mice but not in db/db mice 21 days after AMI. In contrast, administration of SDF-1:MSC produced a significant improvement in EF in both control mice and db/db mice 21 days after AMI. The SDF-1:CXCR4 axis is compromised in diabetes, which appears to augment the deleterious consequences of AMI. Over-express of SDF-1 expression in diabetes rescues cardiac function post AMI. Our results suggest that modulation of SDF-1 may improve post-AMI cardiac repair in diabetes.
Eukaryotic Initiation Factor 5A2 Contributes to the Maintenance of CD133(+) Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells via the c-Myc/microRNA-29b Axis
Authors: Bai Hai-Yan , Liao Yi-Ji , Cai Mu-Yan , Ma Ning-Fang , Zhang Qi , Chen Jie-Wei , Zhang Jia-Xing , Wang Feng-Wei , Wang Chen-Yuan , Chen Wen-Hui , Jin Xiao-Han , Xu Rui-Hua , Guan Xin-Yuan , Xie Dan
Published: November 2017

Cancer stem cells (CSCs)/cancer-initiating cells (CICs) are suggested responsible for driving cancer resistance to conventional therapies and for cancer recurrence and/or metastasis. CD133 is served as a key biomarker to identify and characterize this subpopulation of cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our previous study indicated that overexpression of eukaryotic initiation factor 5A2 (EIF5A2) promotes HCC cell metastasis and angiogenesis. In this study, we demonstrated that EIF5A2 might play a crucial role in CSCs regulation and investigated its potential molecular mechanisms. Using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay, we observed that the expression of EIF5A2 positively correlated with CD133 levels in a cohort of cancerous and noncancerous liver tissues and cells. Next, HCC cells with high expression of EIF5A2 have a strong capacity to form undifferentiated tumor spheres in vitro and show elevated levels of stem cell-related genes, leading to an increased ability to develop tumors when subcutaneously injected into nude mice. Furthermore, differential microRNA expression was profiling between two EIF5A2-depleted HCC cell lines and their control one identified a decreased expression of miR-29b in EIF5A2-depleted cell lines. Further functional studies illustrated that downregulated miR-29b level is responsible for EIF5A2-maintained HCC cell stemness either in vitro or in vivo. Moreover, enforced expression of EIF5A2 in HCC cells largely enhanced the binding of c-Myc on the promoter of miR-29b and downregulation of miR-29b by EIF5A2 was dependent on c-Myc. Our findings, collectively, reveal that EIF5A2 contributes to the maintenance of CD133+ HCC cells via the c-Myc/miR-29b axis.
Flexural response of high‐strength steel‐ultra‐high‐performance fiber reinforced concrete beams based on a mesoscale constitutive model: Experiment and theory
Authors: Qi Jianan , Wang Jingquan , Ma Zhongguo John
Published: November 2017

This paper presents the results of experimental and theoretical studies undertaken to assess the flexural performance of high‐strength steel‐ultra‐high‐performance fiber reinforced concrete (HSS‐UHPFRC) beams. A total of nine HSS‐UHPFRC beams were tested, and the influence of fiber volume fraction, fiber type, longitudinal reinforcement ratio, and concrete strength on the flexural response was evaluated. The results indicate that sufficient longitudinal reinforcement should be provided in a UHPFRC beam to avoid abrupt failure and possible catastrophic collapse. After the loss of the fiber bridging effect, corresponding to the fibers being pulled out from the matrix, which occurs one by one with audible sound which is sizzling, redistribution, and homogenization of the concrete stress beside cracks, induced by the dispersed fibers, takes place and more flexural cracks with small spacing appear besides the existing cracks. The beam stiffness was about 85% of the initial beam stiffness at flexural cracking state and was only approximately 25% of the initial beam stiffness at the ultimate state. A constitutive model is proposed, including a bilinear model for compression and a drop‐down model for tension, taking into account uniform distribution, embedment length, and orientation of fibers for the multi‐scale mechanics analysis. A flexural strength model was subsequently derived on the basis of the proposed mesoscale constitutive model; strain compatibility and force equilibrium were taken into account. The prediction of the ultimate flexural capacity and the overall post‐cracking response with the proposed model show a good agreement with the test results.
Glabridin inhibits the activation of myofibroblasts in human fibrotic buccal mucosal fibroblasts through TGF‐β/smad signaling
Authors: Lee Ping‐Hui , Chu Pei‐Ming , Hsieh Pei‐Ling , Yang Hui‐Wen , Chueh Pin Ju , Huang Yu‐Feng , Liao Yi‐Wen , Yu Cheng‐Chia
Published: November 2017

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) has been recognized as one of the oral potentially malignant disorders. Areca nut chewing is implicated in this pathological fibrosis, and it causes chronic inflammation and persistent activation of myofibroblasts. As yet, existing treatments only provide temporary symptomatic relief and there is a lack of an effective intervention to cure OSF. Therefore, development of approaches to ameliorate myofibroblast activities becomes a crucial objective to prevent the malignant progression of OSF. In this study, we examined the inhibitory effect of glabridin, an isoflavane extracted from licorice root, on the myofibroblast characteristics in human fibrotic buccal mucosal fibroblasts (fBMFs). Our results showed that myofibroblast activities, including collagen gel contractility, migration, invasion and wound healing abilities were reduced after exposure of glabridin in a dose‐dependent manner. Most importantly, we demonstrated that the arecoline‐induced myofiroblast activities were abolished by glabridin treatment. Additionally, the expression of the myofibroblast marker α‐smooth muscle actin and other fibrogenic marker, type I collagen, in fBMFs were dose‐dependently downregulated. Moreover, we showed that the production of TGF‐β was suppressed by glabridin in fBMFs and the protein expression of phospho‐Smad2 was decreased as well. In summary, our data suggested that glabridin repressed the myofibroblast features in fBMFs via TGF‐β/Smad2 signaling pathway. Glabridin also prevented the arecoline‐increased myofibroblast activities, and could serve as a natural anti‐fibrosis compound for OSF.
Vocabulary by Gamification
Authors: Kingsley Tara L. , Grabner‐Hagen Melissa M.
Published: November 2017

Gamification uses game elements such as quests, challenges, levels, and rewards to motivate and engage students in the classroom. Given the engagement that students feel during gameplay, it is sensible to include elements of game design to motivate students and create a space for comprehensive vocabulary instruction. Designing a gamified vocabulary curriculum begins with clear learning goals, a careful selection of key terms, and the transformation of activities into quest challenges. This article shares how to design a gamified vocabulary curriculum to scaffold higher order thinking skills. Snapshots and examples of vocabulary gamification, along with suggestions for everyday practice, are included and aligned to the levels of Bloom's taxonomy. A discussion on how gamification supports student autonomy and mastery learning in a goal‐oriented environment is provided.
Learning About and Through Picturebook Artwork
Authors: Pantaleo Sylvia
Published: November 2017

Picturebooks are highly sophisticated multimodal ensembles. Understanding the semiotic resources and affordances of the visual mode to represent and communicate meaning is fundamental to appreciating the artistry and complexity of picturebooks. A recent classroom‐based research project with grade 2 students featured explicit instruction on particular elements of visual art and design to develop and enhance students’ visual competences and aesthetic appreciation and understanding of picturebooks. In addition to being provided with multiple opportunities to talk and write about picturebook artwork, the students created their own multimodal print texts. The students’ composition of this multimodal work required them to intentionally apply the focus elements of visual art and design featured during the study. Examples of students’ writing, talking, and artwork reveal how they remade meaning across modes as they described, explained, interpreted, and analyzed visual images in both the picturebooks and their own multimodal texts.
Tunneling decay of false vortices with gravitation
Authors: Dupuis Éric , Gobeil Yan , Lee Bum-Hoon , Lee Wonwoo , MacKenzie Richard , Paranjape Manu B. , Yajnik Urjit A. , Yeom Dong-han
Published: November 2017

We study the effect of vortices on the tunneling decay of a symmetry-breaking false vacuum in three spacetime dimensions with gravity. The scenario considered is one in which the initial state, rather than being the homogeneous false vacuum, contains false vortices. The question addressed is whether, and, if so, under which circumstances, the presence of vortices has a significant catalyzing effect on vacuum decay. After studying the existence and properties of vortices, we study their decay rate through quantum tunneling using a variety of techniques. In particular, for so-called thin-wall vortices we devise a one-parameter family of configurations allowing a quantum-mechanical calculation of tunneling. Also for thin-wall vortices, we employ the Israel junction conditions between the interior and exterior spacetimes. Matching these two spacetimes reveals a decay channel which results in an unstable, expanding vortex. We find that the tunneling exponent for vortices, which is the dominant factor in the decay rate, is half that for Coleman-de Luccia bubbles. This implies that vortices are short-lived, making them cosmologically significant even for low vortex densities. In the limit of the vanishing gravitational constant we smoothly recover our earlier results for the decay of the false vortex in a model without gravity.
Stiff phases in strongly coupled gauge theories with holographic duals
Authors: Ecker Christian , Hoyos Carlos , Jokela Niko , Fernández David Rodríguez , Vuorinen Aleksi
Published: November 2017

Abstract

According to common lore, Equations of State of field theories with gravity duals tend to be soft, with speeds of sound either below or around the conformal value of

$$ {\upupsilon}_s=1/\sqrt{3} $$

υ
s

=
1
/

3

. This has important consequences in particular for the physics of compact stars, where the detection of two solar mass neutron stars has been shown to require very stiff equations of state. In this paper, we show that no speed limit exists for holographic models at finite density, explicitly constructing examples where the speed of sound becomes arbitrarily close to that of light. This opens up the possibility of building hybrid stars that contain quark matter obeying a holographic equation of state in their cores.
Spontaneous symmetry breaking, conformal anomaly and incompressible fluid turbulence
Authors: Oz Yaron
Published: November 2017

Abstract

We propose an effective conformal field theory (CFT) description of steady state incompressible fluid turbulence at the inertial range of scales in any number of spatial dimensions. We derive a KPZ-type equation for the anomalous scaling of the longitudinal velocity structure functions and relate the intermittency parameter to the boundary Euler (A-type) conformal anomaly coefficient. The proposed theory consists of a mean field CFT that exhibits Kolmogorov linear scaling (K41 theory) coupled to a dilaton. The dilaton is a Nambu-Goldstone gapless mode that arises from a spontaneous breaking due to the energy flux of the separate scale and time symmetries of the inviscid Navier-Stokes equations to a K41 scaling with a dynamical exponent

$$ z=\frac{2}{3} $$

z
=

2
3

. The dilaton acts as a random measure that dresses the K41 theory and introduces intermittency. We discuss the two, three and large number of space dimensions cases and how entanglement entropy can be used to characterize the intermittency strength.
An explicit transition system construction approach to LTL satisfiability checking
Authors: Li Jianwen , Zhang Lijun , Zhu Shufang , Pu Geguang , Vardi Moshe Y. , He Jifeng
Published: November 2017

We propose a novel algorithm for the satisfiability problem for linear temporal logic (LTL). Existing automata-based approaches first transform the LTL formula into a Büchi automaton and then perform an emptiness checking of the resulting automaton. Instead, our approach works on-the-fly by inspecting the formula directly, thus enabling to find a satisfying model quickly without constructing the full automaton. This makes our algorithm particularly fast for satisfiable formulas. We construct experiments on different pattern formulas, the experimental results show that our approach is superior to other solvers under automata-based framework.
Low Lifetime Risk of Contralateral Breast Cancer in a Middle‐Income Asian Country: Evidence to Guide Post‐treatment Surveillance
Authors: See M. H. , Bhoo‐Pathy N. , Jamaris S. , Kiran A. , Evans D. G. , Yip C. H. , Taib N. A.
Published: November 2017

Background

The rate of contralateral risk‐reducing mastectomy (CRRM) is increasing in the West with controversial evidence of improved survival in early breast cancer patients. Although uptake of CRRM in Asia appears low, the trends may rise, and there is currently an urgent need to provide evidence for informed decision‐making in clinical practice. This study aims to determine the risk of contralateral breast cancer (CBC) and its associated factors in an Asian setting.

Method

A total of 2937 newly diagnosed patients with stage I and stage II breast cancer in University Malaya Medical Centre between Jan 1993 to Dec 2012 were included in the study. Multinomial logistic regression analysis allowing death to compete with CBC as a study outcome was used; patients with unilateral breast cancer who were alive were taken as reference. A stepwise backward regression analysis including age at diagnosis, ethnicity, family history of breast cancer, TNM stage, hormonal receptor status, HER2 status, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormone therapy was conducted.

Results

Fifty women developed CBC, over a median follow‐up of 6 years. The 5‐ and 10‐year cumulative risk of contralateral breast cancer was 1.0% (95% CI 0.6–1.4%) and 2.8% (95% CI 2.0–3.6%), respectively. Young age at diagnosis of first cancer, positive family history, and stage I disease were independent predictors of CBC.

Discussion

The current study suggests that the risk of CBC is very low in a Southeast Asian setting. Any recommendations or practice of CRRM should be reviewed with caution and patients must be counseled appropriately.
The effect of mental fatigue on critical power during cycling exercise
Authors: Salam Hawbeer , Marcora Samuele M. , Hopker James G.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Time to exhaustion (TTE) tests used in the determination of critical power (CP) and curvature constant (W′) of the power–duration relationship are strongly influenced by the perception of effort (PE). This study aimed to investigate whether manipulation of the PE alters the CP and W′.

Methods

Eleven trained cyclists completed a series of TTE tests to establish CP and W′ under two conditions, following a mentally fatiguing (MF), or a control (CON) task. Both cognitive tasks lasted 30 min followed by a TTE test. Ratings of PE and heart rate (HR) were measured during each TTE. Blood lactate was taken pre and post each TTE test. Ratings of perceived mental and physical fatigue were taken pre- and post-cognitive task, and following each TTE test.

Results

Perceived MF significantly increased as a result of the MF task compared to baseline and the CON task (P < 0.05), without a change in perceived physical fatigue (P > 0.05). PE was significantly higher during TTE in the MF condition (P < 0.05). Pre-post blood lactate accumulation was significantly lower after each TTE in MF condition (P < 0.05). HR was not significant different between conditions (P > 0.05). Neither cognitive task induced any change in CP (MF 253 ± 51 vs. CON 247 ± 58W; P > 0.05), although W′ was significantly reduced in the MF condition (MF 22.8 ± 4.5 vs. CON 29.3 ± 6.3 kJ; P < 0.01).

Conclusion

MF has no effect of CP, but reduces the W′ in trained cyclists. Lower lactate accumulation during TTE tests following MF suggests that cyclists were not able to fully expend W′ even though they exercised to volitional exhaustion.
Perifoveal interdigitation zone loss in hydroxychloroquine toxicity leads to subclinical bull’s eye lesion appearance on near-infrared reflectance imaging
Authors: Chew Avenell L. , Sampson Danuta M. , Chelva Enid , Khan Jane C. , Chen Fred K.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

To characterize the ultrastructural and functional correlates of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ)-induced subclinical bull’s eye lesion seen on near-infrared reflectance (NIR) imaging.

Methods

An asymptomatic 54-year-old male taking HCQ presented with paracentral ring-like scotoma, abnormal multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) and preserved ellipsoid zone on optical coherence tomography (OCT). Dense raster OCT was performed to create en face reflectivity maps of the interdigitation zone. Macular Integrity Assessment (MAIA) microperimetry and mfERG findings were compared with NIR imaging, en face OCT, retinal thickness profiles and wave-guiding cone density maps derived from flood-illumination adaptive optics (AO) retinal photography.

Results

The bull’s eye lesion is an oval annular zone of increased reflectivity on NIR with an outer diameter of 1450 µm. This region corresponds exactly to an area of preserved interdigitation zone reflectivity in en face OCT images and of normal cone density on AO imaging. Immediately surrounding the bull’s eye lesion is an annular zone (3°–12° eccentricity) of depressed retinal sensitivity on MAIA and reduced amplitude density on mfERG. Wave-guiding cone density at 2° temporal was 25,400 per mm2. This declined rapidly to 12,900 and 1200 per mm2 at 3° and 4°.

Conclusion

Multimodal imaging illustrated pathology in the area surrounding the NIR bull’s eye, characterized by reduced reflectance, wave-guiding cone density and retinal function. Further studies are required to investigate whether the bull’s eye on NIR imaging and en face OCT is prominent or consistent enough for diagnostic use.
An update of the Worldwide Integrated Assessment (WIA) on systemic insecticides. Part 2: impacts on organisms and ecosystems
Authors: Pisa Lennard , Goulson Dave , Yang En-Cheng , Gibbons David , Sánchez-Bayo Francisco , Mitchell Edward , Aebi Alexandre , van der Sluijs Jeroen , MacQuarrie Chris J. K. , Giorio Chiara , Long Elizabeth Yim , McField Melanie , Bijleveld van Lexmond Maarten , Bonmatin Jean-Marc
Published: November 2017

New information on the lethal and sublethal effects of neonicotinoids and fipronil on organisms is presented in this review, complementing the previous Worldwide Integrated Assessment (WIA) in 2015. The high toxicity of these systemic insecticides to invertebrates has been confirmed and expanded to include more species and compounds. Most of the recent research has focused on bees and the sublethal and ecological impacts these insecticides have on pollinators. Toxic effects on other invertebrate taxa also covered predatory and parasitoid natural enemies and aquatic arthropods. Little new information has been gathered on soil organisms. The impact on marine and coastal ecosystems is still largely uncharted. The chronic lethality of neonicotinoids to insects and crustaceans, and the strengthened evidence that these chemicals also impair the immune system and reproduction, highlights the dangers of this particular insecticidal class (neonicotinoids and fipronil), with the potential to greatly decrease populations of arthropods in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Sublethal effects on fish, reptiles, frogs, birds, and mammals are also reported, showing a better understanding of the mechanisms of toxicity of these insecticides in vertebrates and their deleterious impacts on growth, reproduction, and neurobehaviour of most of the species tested. This review concludes with a summary of impacts on the ecosystem services and functioning, particularly on pollination, soil biota, and aquatic invertebrate communities, thus reinforcing the previous WIA conclusions (van der Sluijs et al. 2015).
Male Obesity: Epigenetic Origin and Effects in Sperm and Offspring
Authors: Houfflyn Sam , Matthys Christophe , Soubry Adelheid
Published: November 2017

Purpose of Review

The prevalence of obesity has increased substantially in the current generations of Western countries, and the burden of obesity-related complications has been growing steadily. In men, obesity is not only a major risk factor for serious chronic diseases, concern is growing that the reproductive capacity, and more particularly, their offspring’s health may be affected. Obesity-related impaired spermatogenesis is associated with a decrease in microscopic and molecular sperm characteristics and pregnancy success. We hypothesize that epigenetics is an important mediator explaining interactions between an obesogenic environment and sperm/offspring outcomes.

Recent Findings

Recent studies have explored inter- and transgenerational epigenetic effects in sperm cells and in offspring. Father-to-child effects have been reported in relation to preconceptional nutritional and life-style related factors.

Here, we summarize the current understanding about obesity and molecular or epigenetic underlying mechanisms in sperm. We identify the obesogenic environment of the father before conception as a potential origin of health or disease in the offspring and include it as part of a new concept, the Paternal Origins of Health and Disease (POHaD).
Blood DNA methylation as a potential biomarker of dementia: A systematic review
Authors: Fransquet Peter D. , Lacaze Paul , Saffery Richard , McNeil John , Woods Robyn , Ryan Joanne
Published: November 2017

Dementia is a major public health issue with rising prevalence rates, but many individuals remain undiagnosed. Accurate and timely diagnosis is key for the optimal targeting of interventions. A noninvasive, easily measurable peripheral biomarker would have greatest utility in population‐wide diagnostic screening. Epigenetics, including DNA methylation, is implicated in dementia; however, it is unclear whether epigenetic changes can be detected in peripheral tissue. This study aimed to systematically review the evidence for an association between dementia and peripheral DNA methylation. Forty‐eight studies that measured DNA methylation in peripheral blood were identified, and 67% reported significant associations with dementia. However, most studies were underpowered and limited by their case‐control design. We emphasize the need for future longitudinal studies on large well‐characterized populations, measuring epigenetic patterns in asymptomatic individuals. A biomarker detectable in the preclinical stages of the disease would have the greatest utility in future intervention and treatment trials.
Refractory Epilepsy: The Role of Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Chan Tommy L.H. , Romsa Jonathan , Steven David A. , Burneo Jorge G.
Published: November 2017

Rationale: Presurgical localization of the epileptogenic focus is critical to successful surgery. Traditionally, localization of the epileptogenic focus depends on seizure semiology, scalp video-electroencephalography (vEEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), neuropsychological assessment, and, when needed, intracranial EEG (iEEG). We aimed to explore the role of positron emission tomography (PET) in the presurgical evaluation of patients with refractory epilepsy. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on patients from London Health Sciences Centre (London, Ontario) with refractory epilepsy who underwent PET from September of 2011 to April of 2016. The accuracy of epileptogenic focus localization was compared between different investigative modalities (MRI, vEEG, iEEG, PET), and the outcomes were documented, including seizure freedom after surgical resection, improvement of seizure frequency, guidance for further investigations, and exclusion of patients from further evaluation. Patients who underwent surgery were followed up at 3 months and onward. Results: We identified 62 patients with refractory epilepsy who underwent PET. The mean age was 34 years (range=20-68). A total of 36 had concordant PET and vEEG findings: 6 had surgical resection and either became seizure-free (29.4%) or had improvement in seizure frequency (5.9%) at 3 months; 11 had surgical resection and either became seizure-free (29.4%) or had improvement in seizure frequency (35.3%) at 3 months, but required iEEG for final verification. Conclusions: PET has an important role in presurgical evaluation of patients with refractory epilepsy. It may allow resection of the epileptogenic focus without the need for iEEG, guiding intracranial electrode placement for further localization of the epileptogenic focus, or exclusion of patients from further evaluation.
Autoantibodies to Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein 4 in Double Seronegative Myasthenia Gravis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bacchi Stephen , Kramer Philippe , Chalk Colin
Published: November 2017

Background: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder of the neuromuscular junction in which a clinical diagnosis may be confirmed with serological testing. The most common autoantibodies used to support a diagnosis of MG are anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies and anti-muscle-specific tyrosine kinase antibodies. In cases in which both of these autoantibodies are negative (termed double-seronegative [dSNMG]), other autoantibodies such as low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4 (LRP4) may be used to aid in diagnosis. Methods: We have undertaken a systematic literature review to identify studies that have assessed the frequency of anti-LRP4 antibodies in dSNMG patients and the characteristics of anti-LRP4+ dSNMG patients (epidemiology, clinical features, electromyographic findings, or management). PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, and Scopus were searched on January 14, 2017, using the medical subject headings “myasthenia gravis” and “low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4” or “LRP4.” Results: The initial search identified 367 articles. Fourteen publications met the inclusion criteria. There were ten cross-sectional research studies, three were case series, and one was a case report. The majority of studies were limited by small sample sizes of LRP4+ dSNMG. There has been a wide range of frequencies of anti-LRP4 antibodies detected in different MG patient populations, some involving different laboratory techniques. Conclusions: LRP4+ dSNMG is more likely than LRP4– dSNMG to have a younger onset of disease and occur in females. LRP4+ dSNMG most often is mild in severity and often involves isolated ocular weakness. It typically responds well to pyridostigmine or prednisone.
THINKING ABOUT “MINGCHINA” ANEW: THE ETHNOCULTURAL SPACE IN A DIVERSE EMPIRE —WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE “MIAO TERRITORY”
Authors: Jiang Yonglin
Published: November 2017

By examining the cultural identity of China's Ming dynasty, this essay challenges two prevalent perceptions of the Ming in existing literature: to presume a monolithic socio-ethno-cultural Chinese empire and to equate the Ming Empire withChina(Zhongguo, the “middle kingdom”). It shows that the Ming constructedChinaas an ethnocultural space rather than a political entity. In essence,Chinawas defined as a Han domain that the Han people inhabited and where Han values were produced, practiced, and preserved in contrast to those of non-Han “barbarians,” be they domestic or foreign. The “Great Ming”—the dynastic title—cannot be confused withChina, the ethnocultural space. For the Ming ruling elite, the “Miao territory” in western Huguang and eastern Guizhou provinces represented a land “beyond the pale of civilization” (huawai), which was outside and different fromChina. The Ming construction of the ethnoculturalChinaconnects the imperial heritage to China's modern identity.
Tribological Properties of Dental Enamel Before and After Orthodontic Bracket Bonding-Debonding by Nano-Scratch Test
Authors: Karimzadeh A. , Ayatollahi M. R. , Hosseinzadeh Nik T.
Published: November 2017

This study investigates the effect of bracket bonding-debonding on the tribological properties of human tooth enamel, when two different adhesives are applied. The nano-scratch experiment was performed on the enamel at untreated and under the bracket regions to obtain wear resistance, scratch hardness and friction coefficient. The results indicated that the tribological properties of the enamel vary significantly after bracket bonding-debonding. However, no significant difference exists between the effects of bracket bonding by the nano-composite and the composite adhesives on the tribological properties. Therefore, considering the mechanical and physical properties of the nano-composite adhesive, its bond strength for orthodontic bracket bonding and the influences on the enamel after removing the bracket, the use of nano-composite adhesive is suitable for orthodontic treatments.
Radiocarbon Evidence for the Pace of the M-/L-PPNB Transition in 8th Millennium BC Southwest Asia
Authors: Jacobsson Piotr
Published: November 2017

The transition from the Middle to Late Pre-Pottery Neolithic B (PPNB) happened throughout southwest Asia in the mid-8th millennium cal BC. It entailed the abandonment of a number of sites, rapid growth of others, as well as the wide spread of morphologically domestic caprines. What remains an unknown is how rapid these processes were in real time. Over the period when the transition was taking place, the calibration curve has two shallow sections divided by a sudden drop, which for many of the older dates creates an illusion of a sudden cultural break around 7600–7500 cal BC. Yet a more detailed study presented in this paper suggests that the transition event could have been spread over a more extended period of time. This, however, is still far from certain due to risks of old wood effects and complexities of site formation.
Differences in skeletal muscle proteolysis in Nellore and Angus cattle might be driven by Calpastatin activity and not the abundance of Calpain/Calpastatin
Authors: MARTINS T. S. , SANGLARD L. M. P. , SILVA W. , CHIZZOTTI M. L. , LADEIRA M. M. , SERÃO N. V. L. , PAULINO P. V. R. , DUARTE M. S.
Published: November 2017

The present study aimed to explore the molecular factors underlying differences in Calpain/Calpastatin proteolytic system in Nellore and Angus cattle. Longissimus muscle samples were collected in Nellore (n= 6; body weight (BW) = 373 ± 37·3 kg) and Angus (n= 6; BW = 383 ± 23·9 kg) cattle at slaughter for analysis of gene and protein expression, and Calpastatin enzyme activity. Additionally, the myofibrillar fragmentation index was used to quantify the extension of proteolysis in longissimus muscle samples. A greater myofibrillar fragmentation was observed in skeletal muscle of Angus compared with Nellore cattle. Conversely, no differences were found between breeds for mRNA expression of Calpain 1 (CAPN1) and Calpastatin (CAST). Similarly, no differences were observed for the abundance of Calpain and Calpastatin proteins between skeletal muscles of Nellore and Angus cattle. Despite the lack of differences in mRNA and protein abundance, a greater activity of Calpastatin was observed in skeletal muscle of Nellore compared with Angus cattle. These data indicate that the greater proteolysis in skeletal muscle of Angus compared with Nellore cattle is mainly driven by a greater Calpastatin activity rather than Calpain or Calpastatin mRNA and protein expression.
Is there enough “interest in and pleasure in” the concept of depression? The development of the Leuven Affect and Pleasure Scale (LAPS)
Authors: Demyttenaere Koen , Mortier Philippe , Kiekens Glenn , Bruffaerts Ronny
Published: November 2017

Objective

Presence of negative mood (depressed mood) and anhedonia (lack of interest and pleasure) are considered core symptoms of depression, while absence of positive mood is not taken into account. It is therefore remarkable that the depression scales routinely used to assess changes during antidepressant treatment (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale [HDRS], Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale [MADRS]) do not really take into account anhedonia. Several scales were developed to assess positive mood and hedonic tone, but they only partially cover the multidimensional concept. Therefore we developed a new 16-item questionnaire, the Leuven Affect and Pleasure Scale (LAPS), to assess negative affect, positive affect, and hedonic tone.

Methods

This first article on the LAPS questionnaire reports on the correlations between the different items, on the factor analysis, and on the differences found in 3 groups of subjects : healthy college students (N=138), depressed but still functioning college students (N=27), and severely depressed inpatients (N=38). These differences were calculated using univariate general linear models with Bonferroni post-hoc testing, and effect sizes were expressed in η2.

Results

Negative and positive affect were only moderately correlated, and the 4 independent variables (cognitive functioning, overall functioning, meaningful life, and happiness) had stronger correlations with positive affect than with negative affect. The major difference in negative affect was between healthy college students and depressed college students, positive affect was different between the 3 groups, and the major difference for hedonic tone was between depressed college students and depressed inpatients. Affiliative positive affect and the affiliative hedonic function were well preserved, even in depressed inpatients.

Conclusions

This preliminary report suggests that the LAPS offers a comprehensive assessment of negative and positive affect, of hedonic tone, and of independent variables (cognitive functioning, overall functioning, meaningful life, and happiness). Clinically relevant differences in subscores were found in 3 groups of subjects with variable levels of depression (healthy subjects, mildly depressed subjects, and severely depressed inpatients).
Remembering Saladin: The Crusades and the Politics of Heresy in Persian Historiography
Authors: BEBEN DANIEL
Published: November 2017

In this study I examine the presentation of Saladin and the Crusades within the genre of Persian universal histories produced from the thirteenth to the sixteenth century. While a number of recent studies have begun to explore the place of the Crusades in the historical memory of the Islamic world, to date little attention has been given to the question of the manner in which the ensuing Mongol conquests affected subsequent Muslim memory of the Crusades. In this article I argue that historiographers of the Mongol and post-Mongol eras largely sought to legitimate the conquests through evocation of heresy and by celebrating the Mongols’ role in combating alleged heretical elements within Muslim society, most notably the Ismāʿīlīs. While Saladin is universally remembered today first and foremost for his re-conquest of Jerusalem from the Crusaders, within the context of the agenda of Persian historiography of the post-Mongol era the locus of his significance was shifted to his overthrow of the Ismāʿīlī Fatimid dynasty in Egypt, to the almost complete exclusion of his role in the Crusades. This article challenges long-standing assumptions that the figure of Saladin was largely forgotten within the Muslim world until the colonial era, and instead presents an alternative explanation for the supposed amnesia in the Muslim world regarding the Crusades in the pre-modern era.
Underweight among rural Indian adults: burden, and predictors of incidence and recovery
Authors: Rai Rajesh Kumar , Fawzi Wafaie Wahib , Bromage Sabri , Barik Anamitra , Chowdhury Abhijit
Published: November 2017

Objective

To study the magnitude and predictors of underweight, incident underweight and recovery from underweight among rural Indian adults.

Design

Prospective cohort study. Each participant’s BMI was measured in 2008 and 2012 and categorized as underweight (BMI<18·5 kg/m2), normal (BMI=18·5–22·9 kg/m2) or overweight/obese (BMI ≥23·0 kg/m2). Incident underweight was defined as a transition from normal weight or overweight/obese in 2008 to underweight in 2012, and recovery from underweight as a transition from underweight in 2008 to normal weight in 2012. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed.

Setting

The Birbhum Health and Demographic Surveillance System, West Bengal, India.

Subjects

Predominantly rural individuals (n 6732) aged ≥18 years enrolled in 2008 were followed up in 2012.

Results

In 2008, the prevalence of underweight was 46·5 %. From 2008 to 2012, 25·8 % of underweight persons transitioned to normal BMI, 12·9 % of normal-weight persons became underweight and 0·1 % of overweight/obese persons became underweight. Multivariable models reveal that people aged 25–49 years, educated and wealthier people, and non-smokers had lower odds of underweight in 2008 and lower odds of incident underweight. Odds of recovery from underweight were lower among people aged ≥36 years and higher among educated (Grade 6 or higher) individuals.

Conclusions

The current study highlights a high incidence of underweight and important risk factors and modifiable predictors of underweight in rural India, which may inform the design of local nutrition interventions.
Introduction to the Special Issue on colonial institutions and African development
Authors: PARENT ANTOINE
Published: November 2017

This special issue, devoted to the analysis of colonial institutions in the economic performance of countries both pre- and post-colonialism Africa, aims to be a contribution, in the vein of North (2005), to the field of colonial studies in comparative institutional perspective. The papers in this issue combine the history of economic thought, econometrics, economic history, cliometrics and the analysis of colonial institutions. These approaches shed a new light on the question of path-dependence and historical dynamics. They suggest that as former African colonial countries move away from the colonial period, the shadow of colonial institutions is less marked and is now rivalled in importance by the extent of democracy, which now plays a crucial role in their economic development.
Selbstwertkontingenz im Studium
Authors: Opelt Felicitas , Schwinger Malte
Published: November 2017

Zusammenfassung. Selbstwertkontingenz beschreibt die Abhängigkeit des Selbstwerts von äußeren Faktoren ( Crocker & Wolfe, 2001 ; Kernis, 2003 ). Das Ausmaß, in dem Studierende ihren Selbstwert von äußeren Faktoren wie z. B. Anerkennung durch andere, akademische Kompetenz oder Wettbewerb abhängig machen, sollte mit ihrem Lern- und Leistungsverhalten, und hierbei insbesondere mit der Nutzung bestimmter Lernstrategien, assoziiert sein. Theoretisch sind diesbezüglich sowohl Zusammenhänge der Selbstwertkontingenz mit der ressourcenbezogenen Lernstrategie Anstrengungsbereitschaft als auch mit verschiedenen weiteren Lernstrategien denkbar. Welche selbstregulierten Lernstrategien mit der Selbstwertkontingenz von Studierenden assoziiert sind und inwiefern diese die Beziehung zwischen der Selbstwertkontingenz und der resultierenden Studienleistung mediieren, wurde bislang kaum untersucht. In der vorliegenden Studie wurden daher bei N = 614 Studierenden die Zusammenhänge zwischen der Selbstwertkontingenz, verschiedenen selbstregulierten Lernstrategien sowie den später erfassten Studienleistungen analysiert. Pfadanalysen zeigten, dass die Selbstwertkontingenz mit der Anstrengungsbereitschaft sowie mit oberflächenorientierten Lernstrategien signifikant positiv zusammenhing, während sich keine signifikanten Zusammenhänge zwischen der Selbstwertkontingenz und tiefenorientierten Lernstrategien nachweisen ließen. Außerdem zeigte sich eine signifikante indirekte Beziehung zwischen der Selbstwertkontingenz und den Noten, welche durch die ressourcenbezogene Lernstrategie Anstrengungsbereitschaft mediiert wurde. Die überwiegend erwartungskonformen Ergebnisse blieben auch bei Kontrolle der Selbstwerthöhe robust und unterstreichen insgesamt die Relevanz der Selbstwertkontingenz für das Lern- und Leistungsverhalten im Studium.
Run-Ups of Unusual Size
Authors: Witman Sarah
Published: November 2017

Not all waves are created equal when it comes to eroding sandy shorelines. Here’s a look at the physics that drives the big ones.
FBXO32 promotes microenvironment underlying epithelial-mesenchymal transition via CtBP1 during tumour metastasis and brain development
Authors: Sahu Sanjeeb Kumar , Tiwari Neha , Pataskar Abhijeet , Zhuang Yuan , Borisova Marina , Diken Mustafa , Strand Susanne , Beli Petra , Tiwari Vijay K.
Published: November 2017

The set of events that convert adherent epithelial cells into migratory cells are collectively known as epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is involved during development, for example, in triggering neural crest migration, and in pathogenesis such as metastasis. Here we discover FBXO32, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, to be critical for hallmark gene expression and phenotypic changes underlying EMT. Interestingly, FBXO32 directly ubiquitinates CtBP1, which is required for its stability and nuclear retention. This is essential for epigenetic remodeling and transcriptional induction of CtBP1 target genes, which create a suitable microenvironment for EMT progression. FBXO32 is also amplified in metastatic cancers and its depletion in a NSG mouse xenograft model inhibits tumor growth and metastasis. In addition, FBXO32 is essential for neuronal EMT during brain development. Together, these findings establish that FBXO32 acts as an upstream regulator of EMT by governing the gene expression program underlying this process during development and disease.
Phage display and selection of lanthipeptides on the carboxy-terminus of the gene-3 minor coat protein
Authors: Urban Johannes H. , Moosmeier Markus A. , Aumüller Tobias , Thein Marcus , Bosma Tjibbe , Rink Rick , Groth Katharina , Zulley Moritz , Siegers Katja , Tissot Kathrin , Moll Gert N. , Prassler Josef
Published: November 2017

Ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) are an emerging class of natural products with drug-like properties. To fully exploit the potential of RiPPs as peptide drug candidates, tools for their systematic engineering are required. Here we report the engineering of lanthipeptides, a subclass of RiPPs characterized by multiple thioether cycles that are enzymatically introduced in a regio- and stereospecific manner, by phage display. This was achieved by heterologous co-expression of linear lanthipeptide precursors fused to the widely neglected C-terminus of the bacteriophage M13 minor coat protein pIII, rather than the conventionally used N-terminus, along with the modifying enzymes from distantly related bacteria. We observe that C-terminal precursor peptide fusions to pIII are enzymatically modified in the cytoplasm of the producing cell and subsequently displayed as mature cyclic peptides on the phage surface. Biopanning of large C-terminal display libraries readily identifies artificial lanthipeptide ligands specific to urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) and streptavidin.
PTEN is a protein phosphatase that targets active PTK6 and inhibits PTK6 oncogenic signaling in prostate cancer
Authors: Wozniak Darren J. , Kajdacsy-Balla Andre , Macias Virgilia , Ball-Kell Susan , Zenner Morgan L. , Bie Wenjun , Tyner Angela L.
Published: November 2017

PTEN activity is often lost in prostate cancer. We show that the tyrosine kinase PTK6 (BRK) is a PTEN substrate. Phosphorylation of PTK6 tyrosine 342 (PY342) promotes activation, while phosphorylation of tyrosine 447 (PY447) regulates auto-inhibition. Introduction of PTEN into a PTEN null prostate cancer cell line leads to dephosphorylation of PY342 but not PY447 and PTK6 inhibition. Conversely, PTEN knockdown promotes PTK6 activation in PTEN positive cells. Using a variety of PTEN mutant constructs, we show that protein phosphatase activity of PTEN targets PTK6, with efficiency similar to PTP1B, a phosphatase that directly dephosphorylates PTK6 Y342. Conditional disruption of Pten in the mouse prostate leads to tumorigenesis and increased phosphorylation of PTK6 Y342, and disruption of Ptk6 impairs tumorigenesis. In human prostate tumor tissue microarrays, loss of PTEN correlates with increased PTK6 PY342 and poor outcome. These data suggest PTK6 activation promotes invasive prostate cancer induced by PTEN loss.