bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Paeonia lactiflora Pall. regulates the NF-κB-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway to alleviate cholestasis in rats
Authors: Ma Xiao , Wen Jian-Xia , Gao Si-Jia , He Xuan , Li Peng-Yan , Yang Yu-Xue , Wei Shi-zhang , Zhao Yan-Ling , Xiao Xiao-He 
Published: September 2018

Abstract

Objectives
Cholestasis is a critical risk factor for severe hepatic disease or cirrhosis. The anti-inflammatory effect of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. (PLP), named Chishao in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), on alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced cholestasis model was tried to be elucidated in this research.

Methods
Therapeutic effect indices on hepatic function, including ALT, AST, TBIL, DBIL, ALP, TBA and γ-GT, were measured. To further investigate the protective mechanism of PLP, the mRNA and protein expression levels of NF-κB-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway were detected.

Results
Our results showed that compared with the model group, PLP could significantly reduce the increased serum indices such as ALT, AST, TBIL, DBIL, ALP, TBA and γ-GT induced by ANIT in a dose-dependent way. Moreover, we found that PLP downregulated the mRNA expression levels including IKK, p65, NLRP3, caspase-1 and IL-1β, especially at the large dose. Furthermore, PLP also significantly inhibited NF-κB-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway by decreasing the protein levels of p65, p-p65, p-IKK, NLRP3, caspase-1 and IL-1β.

Conclusions
The results indicated that PLP could ameliorate ANIT-induced cholestasis in rats and the anti-inflammatory effect of PLP might be related to regulating NF-κB-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. This study will provide scientific evidence for PLP as a potential drug candidate for cholestasis.
Interface interactions between βγ‐crystallin domain and Ig‐like domain render Ca2+‐binding site inoperative in abundant perithecial protein of Neurospora crassa
Authors: Swaroop Srivastava Shanti , Raman Rajeev , Kiran Uday , Garg Rupsi , Chadalawada Swathi , Pawar Asmita D. , Sankaranarayanan Rajan , Sharma Yogendra 
Published: September 2018

SummaryWe describe a set of proteins in which a βγ‐crystallin domain pairs with an Ig‐like domain, and which are confined to microbes, like bacteria, slime molds and fungi. DdCAD‐1 (Ca2+‐dependent cell adhesion molecule‐1) and abundant perithecial protein (APP) represent this class of molecules. Using the crystal structure of APP‐NTD (N‐terminal domain of APP), we describe its mode of Ca2+ binding and provide a generalized theme for correct identification of the Ca2+‐binding site within this class of molecules. As a common feature, one of the two Ca2+‐binding sites is non‐functional in the βγ‐crystallin domains of these proteins. While APP‐NTD binds Ca2+ with a micromolar affinity which is comparable to DdCAD‐1, APP surprisingly does not bind Ca2+. Crystal structures of APP and Ca2+‐bound APP‐NTD reveal that the interface interactions in APP render its Ca2+‐binding site inoperative. Thus, heterodomain association provides a novel mode of Ca2+‐binding regulation in APP. Breaking the interface interactions (mutating Asp30Ala, Leu132Ala and Ile135Ala) or separation from the Ig‐like domain removes the constraints upon the required conformational transition and enables the βγ‐crystallin domain to bind Ca2+. In mechanistic detail, our work demonstrates an interdomain interface adapted to distinct functional niches in APP and its homolog DdCAD‐1.
Transformative elements of intercultural education for Japanese nursing students
Authors: Dodgson Joan E. , Yahiro Michiko , Melby Carolyn S. , Takeo Keiko , Tanaka Takamasa , Asano Hitoshi 
Published: September 2018

AbstractThere has been little research exploring Japanese nursing students' experiences of having Western instructors in their nursing programs. The purpose of the present study was to describe Japanese nursing students' lived experiences of being taught by foreign faculty. A qualitative design using an interpretive phenomenology approach was used with purposeful sampling. Graduate and undergraduate nursing students (n = 13), who had the experience of being taught by a foreign faculty member for at least one semester, were recruited. Six themes emerged that suggested the participants went through an evolutionary process as they worked to understand and make meaning of these intercultural experiences: struggling with uncertainty, working to understand, discovering differences in teaching styles, opening my eyes to the world, thinking differently now, and wanting to know more. The work students must do to understand foreign teachers influences what they are able to learn, and must be taken into consideration by both faculty and students. To fully realize meaningful teaching outcomes within this intercultural context, it is essential that students have sustained exposure to foreign faculty.
TRM4 is essential for cellulose deposition in Arabidopsis seed mucilage by maintaining cortical microtubule organization and interacting with CESA3
Authors: Yang Bo , Voiniciuc Cătălin , Fu Lanbao , Dieluweit Sabine , Klose Holger , Usadel Björn 
Published: September 2018

Summary

The differentiation of the seed coat epidermal (SCE) cells in Arabidopsis thaliana leads to the production of a large amount of pectin‐rich mucilage and a thick cellulosic secondary cell wall. The mechanisms by which cortical microtubules are involved in the formation of these pectinaceous and cellulosic cell walls are still largely unknown.

Using a reverse genetic approach, we found that TONNEAU1 (TON1) recruiting motif 4 (TRM4) is implicated in cortical microtubule organization in SCE cells, and functions as a novel player in the establishment of mucilage structure.

TRM4 is preferentially accumulated in the SCE cells at the stage of mucilage biosynthesis. The loss of TRM4 results in compact seed mucilage capsules, aberrant mucilage cellulosic structure, short cellulosic rays and disorganized cellulose microfibrils in mucilage. The defects could be rescued by transgene complementation of trm4 alleles. Probably, this is a consequence of a disrupted organization of cortical microtubules, observed using fluorescently tagged tubulin proteins in trm4 SCE cells. Furthermore, TRM4 proteins co‐aligned with microtubules and interacted directly with CELLULOSE SYNTHASE 3 in two independent assays.

Together, the results indicate that TRM4 is essential for microtubule array organization and therefore correct cellulose orientation in the SCE cells, as well as the establishment of the subsequent mucilage architecture.
Angiosarcoma arising from congenital primary lymphedema
Authors: Janssens Pauline , Dekeuleneer Valérie , Van Damme An , Brouillard Pascal , Revencu Nicole , Clapuyt Philippe , Ferreira Ingrid , Ballieux Fanny , Vikkula Miikka , Marot Liliane , Baeck Marie , Boon Laurence M. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractWe herein report the case of a 3‐year‐old girl with atypical congenital right upper limb lymphedema who developed an angiosarcoma. Only a few cases have been reported following congenital form of lymphedema and only 4 in such a young child. We also summarize all cases of angiosarcoma associated with congenital lymphedema reported in the literature.
Work environment risks for health care workers with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Bell Scott C. , Armstrong David , Harrington Glenys , Jardine Luke , Divakaran Rebekah , Loff Bebe , Middleton Peter G. , McDonald Tim , Rowland Karen , Wishart Michael , Wood Michelle E. , Stuart Rhonda L. 
Published: September 2018

ABSTRACTIn Australia and New Zealand, >50% of people with cystic fibrosis (CF) are adults and many of these people are pursuing vocational training and undertaking paid employment. More than 6% of adults with CF are working in health care. There is limited guidance in literature to support health care workers with CF (HCWcf) in training and in employment to support safe practice and to provide protection for themselves and their patients from the acquisition of health care associated infection. A multidisciplinary team of CF and Infectious Disease Clinicians, Infection Prevention and Control Practitioners, HCWcf, academic experts in medical ethics and representatives from universities, appraised the available evidence on the risk posed to and by HCWcf. Specific recommendations were made for HCWcf, CF health care teams, hospitals and universities to support the safe practice and appropriate support for HCWcf.
Effects of training and competition on the sleep of elite athletes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Roberts Spencer Stuart Haines , Teo Wei-Peng , Warmington Stuart Anthony 
Published: September 2018

ObjectivesTo characterise the sleep of elite athletes and to identify factors associated with training and competition that negatively affect sleep.DesignPrognosis systematic review.Data sourcesThree databases (PubMed, SCOPUS and SPORTDiscus) were searched from inception to 26 February 2018.Eligibility criteria for selecting studiesIncluded studies objectively reported total sleep time (TST) and/or sleep efficiency (SE) in elite athletes. Studies were required to be observational or to include an observational trial.ResultsFifty-four studies were included. During training, many studies reported athletes were unable to achieve TST (n=23/41) and/or SE (n=16/37) recommendations. On the night of competition, most studies reported athletes were unable to achieve TST (n=14/18) and/or SE (n=10/16) recommendations. TST was shorter (60 min) the night of competition compared with previous nights. SE was lower (1%) the night of competition compared with the previous night. TST was shorter the night of night competition (start ≥18:00; 80 min) and day competition (20 min) compared with the previous night. SE was lower (3%–4%) the night of night competition but unchanged the night of day competition compared with previous nights. Early morning training (start <07:00), increases in training load (>25%), late night/early morning travel departure times, eastward air travel and altitude ascent impaired sleep.ConclusionAthletes were often unable to achieve sleep recommendations during training or competition periods. Sleep was impaired the night of competition compared with previous nights. Early morning training, increases in training load, travel departure times, jet lag and altitude can impair athletes’ sleep.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42017074367.
Long-term exposure to air pollutants from multiple sources and mortality in an industrial area: a cohort study
Authors: Bauleo Lisa , Bucci Simone , Antonucci Chiara , Sozzi Roberto , Davoli Marina , Forastiere Francesco , Ancona Carla 
Published: September 2018

Background and aimsResidents near industrial areas are exposed to several toxins from various sources and the assessment of the health effects is difficult. The area of Civitavecchia (Italy) has several sources of environmental contamination with potential health effects. We evaluated the association between exposure to pollutants from multiple sources and mortality in a cohort of people living in the area.MethodsAll residents of the area in 1996 were enrolled (from municipal registers) and followed until 2013. Long-term exposures to emissions from industrial sources (PM10) and traffic (NOx) at the residential addresses were assessed using a dispersion model. Residence close to the harbour was also considered. Cox survival analysis was conducted including a linear term for industrial PM10 and NOx exposure and a dichotomous variable to indicate residence within 500 m of the harbour. Age, sex, calendar period, occupation and area-based socioeconomic position (SEP) were considered (HRs, 95% CI).Results71 362 people were enrolled (52% female, 43% low SEP) and 14 844 died during the follow-up. We found an association between industrial PM10 and mortality from non-accidental causes (HR=1.06, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.12), all cancers (HR=1.11, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.21) and cardiac diseases (HR=1.12, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.23). We also found an association between NOx exposure from traffic and mortality from all cancers (HR=1.13, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.26) and neurological diseases (HR=1.50, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.20). Living near the harbour was associated with higher mortality from lung cancer (HR=1.31, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.66) and neurological diseases (HR=1.51, 95% CI 1.05 to 2.18).ConclusionsEstimated exposures to different pollution sources in this area were independently associated with several mortality outcomes while adjusting for occupation and socioeconomic status.
Interaction of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) polymorphisms and occupational hazards increases the risk of hypertension in coke oven workers
Authors: Zheng Jin-Ping , Lyu Yi , Li Rui-fang , Tian Feng-jie , Mu Jian-bing 
Published: September 2018

ObjectivesThe interaction between genetic, epigenetic inheritance and environmental factors determines susceptibility to hypertension. Previous epidemiology studies have shown that coke oven workers who are frequently exposed to various occupational hazards have remarkable increase in the risk for hypertension. Among many genetic variants identified in hypertension, heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) was found to play important roles in the pathogenesis of hypertension and associated diseases. We therefore explore the possible role of HSP70 polymorphisms and their interaction with occupational environment in hypertension risk.MethodsWe carried out a case–control study among 367 coke oven workers in northwest China, focused on three common HSP70 polymorphisms (HSP70-1 G190C, HSP70-2 A1267G and HSP70-hom T2437C), and evaluated the association of HSP70 gene polymorphisms with work sites for high risk of hypertension.ResultsThe results indicated that HSP70-1 GC and CC genotype had 2.73-fold and 4.26-fold increased relative risk (95% CI 1.33 to 5.55 and 1.17 to 15.53), respectively, comparing with HSP70-1 GG genotype. HSP70-2 AG and GG conferred a 47% and 36% reduced risk (95% CI 0.23 to 0.99 and 0.14 to 0.92) comparing with HSP70-2 AA genotype. Further analysis of the interaction of HSP70 polymorphisms with occupational environment indicated a strong positive interaction between HSP70 genotype (HSP70-1 GC+CC, HSP70-2 AA and HSP70-hom TC+CC) and oven top workplace.ConclusionsCollectively, these data indicate that HSP70 polymorphisms interact with occupational hazards might increase the risk of hypertension in coke oven workers.
The WHO FCTC and global governance: effects and implications for future global public health instruments
Authors: McInerney Thomas F 
Published: September 2018

IntroductionThis article analyses experience with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) in the context of global governance. It examines ways in which the WHO FCTC has been addressed by international institutions, particularly within the UN system at the international and national levels. It seeks to understand the extent to which the WHO FCTC as an international legal obligation has contributed to its integration in the strategies, policies and programmes of UN system organisations.MethodsThe article examines documentation reflecting global governance responses to tobacco control since the Convention’s entry into force in 2005. It also considers discussions with officials involved in the design and management of various UN initiatives. Finally, it draws on the findings of the Expert Group on the Impact Assessment of the WHO FCTC.ConclusionsThe influence of the WHO FCTC in global governance can be at least partially attributed to its status as an international legal obligation. While tobacco control would have likely been a priority in international public health even in the absence of the WHO FCTC, the importance of tobacco control has been relatively greater as a result of the treaty. In assessing the potential utility of any future global public health instrument, it is important to consider the need to mobilise action by other global governance institutions and ensure that the chosen instrument will be capable of stimulating such action.
Tefillin use induces remote ischemic preconditioning pathways in healthy men
Authors: Owens A. Phillip , Robbins Nathan , Saum Keith , Jones Shannon M. , Kirschner Akiva , Woo Jessica G. , McCoy Connie , Slone Samuel , Rothenberg Marc E. , Urbina Elaine M. , Tranter Michael , Rubinstein Jack 
Published: September 2018

The present study assessed whether tefillin use (tight, nonocclusive, wrapping of the arm) elicits a remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC)-like effect in subjects with both acute and chronic use. RIPC, created by short bursts of ischemia-reperfusion, has not been successfully taken to the bedside. Several large population studies have found that Orthodox Jewish men (who wear tefillin almost daily) have decreased cardiovascular mortality compared with non-Orthodox counterparts. We hypothesized that tefillin use is a relevant component in triggering a preconditioning effect. Jewish men ( n = 20) were enrolled; 9 men were daily tefillin users (conditioned) and 11 men were nonusers of tefillin as controls (naïve). Subjects were evaluated for adherence to traditional Jewish practice, had vital signs measured, blood drawn for analysis of circulating cytokines and monocyte function, and underwent brachial flow-mediated dilation to evaluate vascular reactivity at baseline (basal) and after 30 min of using tefillin (acute treatment). Under basal conditions, both groups had similar peak systolic velocity (SV), diameter, and flow volume, although the conditioned group had higher SV at 120 s postdeflation ( P = 0.05). Acute tefillin use augmented artery diameter and flow volume in both groups, with conditioned subjects experiencing higher SV than control subjects at 90 and 120 s postdeflation ( P = 0.03 and P = 0.02, respectively). Conditioned subjects had decreased inflammation, monocyte migration and adhesion, and endothelial activation compared with control subjects at baseline. Acute use of tefillin did not significantly alter monocyte function in either group. In this pilot study, acute tefillin use improves vascular function, whereas chronic tefillin use is associated with an anti-inflammatory RIPC-like phenotype. NEW & NOTEWORTHY We hypothesized that tefillin use among Orthodox Jewish men (who practice a nonocclusive leather banding of their nondominant arm) will induce a remote ischemic preconditioning phenotype. Chronic use of tefillin in Orthodox Jewish men was associated with increased systolic velocity and attenuated inflammation and monocyte chemotaxis and adhesion versus Jewish men who do not wear tefillin. Acute use of tefillin in both populations augmented brachial artery diameter and blood flow but not inflammatory profiles compared with baseline.
Prediction of the Risk of Laparoscopy-Assisted Gastrectomy by Comparing Visceral Fat Area and Body Mass Index
Authors: Liu Yongke , Guo Dong , Niu Zhaojian , Wang Yuliang , Fu Guanghua , Zhou Yanbing , Xue Qingkai , Jin Xinliang , Gong Zhiqi 
Published: September 2018

Propose. The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of visceral fat area (VFA) and body mass index (BMI) in predicting the risk of laparoscopic-assisted gastrectomy. Methods. Clinicopathological and imaging data of 133 patients who underwent laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy were recorded, including 17 cases of conversion to open surgery. The remaining 116 patients were retrospectively analyzed after we excluded 17 patients who had been transferred to laparotomy. The patients were divided into two groups according to BMI (≤25 kg/m2: BMI-L group; >25 kg/m2: BMI-H group) and VFA (≤100 cm2: VFA-L group; >100 cm2: VFA-H group). Clinical outcomes were compared between the BMI and VFA subgroups. Results. There were no differences in intraoperative blood loss and the number of harvested lymph nodes between low and high patients defined by BMI and VFA (p>0.050). However, in the comparison of patients who underwent laparoscopic resection only, it was found that the operation time and intraoperative blood loss of the VFA-H group were more than those of the VFA-L group (p<0.050). Compared to the VFA-L group, the VFA-H group had later first exhaust time (p=0.018), more complications (p<0.001), and longer hospital stays (p=0.049). However, no similar conclusion was obtained in the BMI group (p>0.050). Conclusion. This study demonstrates that VFA better evaluates the difficulty of laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy and the risk of postoperative complications than BMI.
Neonatal Inflammatory Markers Are Associated with Childhood B-cell Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Søegaard Signe Holst , Rostgaard Klaus , Skogstrand Kristin , Wiemels Joseph Leo , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Hjalgrim Henrik 
Published: September 2018

Abstract
It has been proposed that children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are born with a dysregulated immune function that together with postnatal environmental exposures causes childhood ALL. Despite its importance for the understanding of ALL etiology, this hypothesis has been inadequately explored. In a population-based case–control study, we measured the concentrations of 10 cytokines and other inflammatory markers on neonatal dried blood spots from 178 children who at ages 1 to 9 years were diagnosed with B-cell precursor ALL and 178 matched controls. Through linkage with Danish nationwide registers, we also assessed whether neonatal inflammatory markers were associated with previously demonstrated risk factors for childhood ALL. Children who developed B-cell precursor ALL had significantly lower neonatal concentrations of IL8, soluble IL6 receptor (sIL6R) α, TGFβ1, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, and C-reactive protein (CRP) and higher concentrations of IL6, IL17, and IL18 compared with matched controls. Concentrations of IL10 were below the detection level for both patients and controls. Birth order (IL18 and CRP), gestational age (sIL6Rα, TGFβ1, and CRP), and sex (sIL6Rα, IL8, and CRP), but not maternal age, infections during pregnancy, birth weight nor mode of delivery were significantly associated with the neonatal concentrations of inflammatory markers. Our findings support the hypothesis that children who later develop B-cell precursor ALL are born with a dysregulated immune function.
Significance: Children who develop acute lymphoblastic leukemia are immunologically distinct at birth and could potentially react abnormally to infections in early childhood. Cancer Res; 78(18); 5458–63. ©2018 AACR.
An Interleukin-1 Signature in Breast Cancer Treated with Interleukin-1 Receptor Blockade: Implications for Treating Cytokine Release Syndrome of Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Dinarello Charles Anthony 
Published: September 2018

Abstract
In this issue of Cancer Research, Wu and colleagues show that IL1b orchestrates tumor-promoting inflammation in breast cancer and can be targeted in patients using an IL1 receptor antagonist. Cancer Res; 78(18); 5200–2. ©2018 AACR.
See related article by Wu et al., p. 5243