bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genome‐wide identification of microRNAs regulating the human prion protein
Authors: Pease Daniel , Scheckel Claudia , Schaper Elke , Eckhardt Valeria , Emmenegger Marc , Xenarios Ioannis , Aguzzi Adriano 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe cellular prion protein (PrPC) is best known for its misfolded disease‐causing conformer, PrPSc. Because the availability of PrPC is often limiting for prion propagation, understanding its regulation may point to possible therapeutic targets. We sought to determine to what extent the human microRNAome is involved in modulating PrPC levels through direct or indirect pathways. We probed PrPC protein levels in cells subjected to a genome‐wide library encompassing 2019 miRNA mimics using a robust time‐resolved fluorescence‐resonance screening assay. Screening was performed in three human neuroectodermal cell lines: U‐251 MG, CHP‐212 and SH‐SY5Y. The three screens yielded 17 overlapping high‐confidence miRNA mimic hits, 13 of which were found to regulate PrPC biosynthesis directly via binding to the PRNP 3’UTR, thereby inducing transcript degradation. The four remaining hits (miR‐124‐3p, 192‐3p, 299‐5p and 376b‐3p) did not bind either the 3’UTR or CDS of PRNP, and were therefore deemed indirect regulators of PrPC. Our results show that multiple miRNAs regulate PrPC levels both directly and indirectly. These findings may have profound implications for prion disease pathogenesis and potentially also for their therapy. Furthermore, the possible role of PrPC as a mediator of Aβ toxicity suggests that its regulation by miRNAs may also impinge on Alzheimer’s disease.
Character Development: Four Facets of Virtues
Authors: Lerner Richard M. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractCharacter virtues are morally based actions that enable and individual and his or her social world to thrive across time and place. The morally valanced relation between individual and context involved in character virtue development may be studied productively by research and program evaluation focused on four facets of virtues: (a) Character virtue development involves mutually beneficial relations between the individual and the context (individual ⇔ context relations); (b) Coherence, reflecting the Aristotelian concept of phronesis, enables understanding of the specific ways in which an individual may contribute positively to the context that, in turn, supports him or her; (c) Specific character virtues develop in specific places at specific times through specific individual ⇔ context relations; and 4. Idiographic analysis is a useful first step in the study of character virtue development. Implications of these ideas for research and the evaluation of character education programs are discussed.
Using environmental DNA and occupancy modelling to identify drivers of eastern hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) extirpation
Authors: Wineland Sean M. , Welch Shane M. , Pauley Thomas K. , Apodaca Joseph J. , Olszack Max , Mosher Jennifer J. , Holmes Jeffrey N. , Waldron Jayme L. 
Published: November 2018

Abstract

Population declines and local extirpation trends are widespread among freshwater species, but the responsible drivers of these trends are poorly understood. Identifying the potential drivers of population declines is essential to effective conservation planning. However, conventional detection methods used to monitor cryptic and elusive freshwater species are inefficient. Integrating new surveying and modelling techniques may allow for a more comprehensive assessment of population declines.

We used environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling methods and detailed historical records to identify drivers of local extirpation in a declining, long‐lived giant salamander, the eastern hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) in West Virginia, U.S.A. We used a site occupancy and detection modelling framework (SODM) to test the influence of current land use, historical mining, hydrogeomorphic and water quality variables on model‐based predictions of hellbender extirpation and detection.

We failed to detect hellbender eDNA at 51% (naïve 1 – Ψ) of historical sites, suggesting local extirpation at a broad spatial scale in West Virginia. Our best‐supported SODM model suggested catchment‐scale road density was the best predictor of hellbender extirpation, and that 38% (predicted 1 – Ψ) of historical sites may be locally extirpated. Estimates of hellbender occupancy probability were extremely low in highly developed catchments. Water turbidity and conductivity were the best predictors of eDNA detection, both negatively influencing detection probability.

Roads can increase sedimentation rates and alter water chemistry of freshwater ecosystems, identifying landscape alteration/human development and water quality declines as possible drivers of hellbender extirpation trends in West Virginia. Our findings also suggest that water conductivity and turbidity may act as polymerase chain reaction inhibitors and decrease eDNA detection in lotic systems.

This study emphasises the negative impacts of urban development on freshwater ecosystems and the sensitivity of long‐lived amphibian species to rapid environmental change. Our findings may aid in conservation planning by providing a sampling framework that integrates eDNA data within a SODM framework to rapidly and accurately assesses relational changes in aquatic species' occupancy at historical sites.
Factors influencing blood pressure classification for adults: Gender differences
Authors: Choi Jin Yi , Yun Eun Kyoung , Yeun Eun Ja , Jeong Eun Sook 
Published: November 2018

AbstractAimHypertension is a common condition contributing to many diseases. Factors influencing blood pressure (BP) classification for adults have changed over time. This study aimed to identify factors influencing BP classification according to gender.MethodsData from the Sixth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2014) were used in this descriptive, cross‐sectional study. Participants were 1555 adults (589 men, 966 women). Measures included demographic, health‐related, and lifestyle factors.ResultsCompared with the male normal BP group, in the male prehypertension group, body mass index, problem drinking, and reduced sleep duration were higher; and in the male hypertension group, age, poor subjective health status, body mass index, diabetes, problem drinking, smoking, and sodium intake were higher. Compared with the female normal BP group, age, and body mass index were higher in the female prehypertension group; and age, poor subjective health status, body mass index, menopause, and diabetes were higher in the female hypertension group.ConclusionHypertension and prehypertension prevention interventions for adults should be distinguished according to gender.
Health beliefs and behaviours in relation to sexually transmitted infections among South Korean juvenile offenders: A focused ethnography study
Authors: Jeong Sookyung , Lee Jacob , Seo Yu Bin , Cha Chiyoung 
Published: November 2018

AbstractAimThis study explored health beliefs and behaviours related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from the perspective of juvenile offenders with STIs in three urban cities.MethodsData were collected using observations and in‐depth interviews between July and November, 2014. Under the supervision of probation officers, 24 juvenile offenders with STIs were interviewed. Leininger's four‐step method guided the data analysis.FindingsFrom participants' perspectives, poor hygiene and a promiscuous lifestyle caused the STIs. The diseases were considered an adult disease with distinct symptoms and deformities, no cure, and therefore fatal. STIs were shameful for juveniles because their presence revealed sexually active behaviours. The juveniles' health‐related behaviours included neglecting their STI symptoms because they did not know they were infected, mistaking STIs for other health conditions, choosing to suffer rather than revealing their diagnosis, and keeping their genitals clean.ConclusionA large gap emerged between juveniles' beliefs and behaviours related to STIs. Policies and education are needed to provide accurate STI information for this population.
Service managers’ experiences of how the participation of people with intellectual disabilities can be promoted in Swedish group homes
Authors: Berlin Hallrup Leena , Kumlien Christine , Carlson Elisabeth 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundPeople with intellectual disabilities in staffed group homes often need lifelong support and dependency on others. Thereby, special demands are placed on staff and service managers to ensure opportunities for participation in everyday life. This study aims to explore how service managers promote participation in Swedish group homes for adults with intellectual disabilities.MethodA qualitative research design involving individual interviews with 14 service managers was used to gain an understanding of how the participation of adults with intellectual disabilities can be promoted in Swedish group homes.ResultsThe results comprise two main themes; Creating preconditions for participation and Barriers for promotion of participation.ConclusionsService managers experienced that promoting service user participation in group homes was an important part of their responsibility. The findings indicate that structural strategies such as coaching, supervision and reflection are important and should be further developed.
Secular changes in clinical manifestations of kidney disease among Japanese adults with type 2 diabetes from 1996 to 2014
Authors: Kume Shinji , Araki Shin‐ichi , Ugi Satoshi , Morino Katsutaro , Koya Daisuke , Nishio Yoshihiko , Haneda Masakazu , Kashiwagi Atsunori , Maegawa Hiroshi 
Published: November 2018

AbstractAims/IntroductionDiabetic kidney disease is characterized by increased albuminuria and/or a reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR). We analyzed secular changes in the prevalence of albuminuria and reduced estimated GFR (eGFR) in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes, and identified factors associated with these changes.Materials and MethodsUsing 1996, 2001, 2006 and 2014 cohort data from the Japanese serial cross‐sectional studies conducted at Shiga University of Medical Science, secular changes in the prevalence of diabetic kidney disease (albuminuria and/or reduced eGFR), patient characteristics and their associations were analyzed.ResultsThe prevalence of microalbuminuria and macroalbuminuria decreased over time, whereas the prevalence of moderately reduced eGFR (30–60 mL/min/1.73 m2) and severely reduced eGFR (<30 mL/min/1.73 m2) increased. Severely reduced eGFR was observed mainly in the patients with macroalbuminuria, regardless of year. Conversely, the prevalence of moderately reduced eGFR increased in the patients without macroalbuminuria. Both macroalbuminuria and moderately reduced eGFR without macroalbuminuria in the 2014 cohort were refractory to the recently recommended intensive therapy. Finally, we showed that obesity accompanied by vascular dysfunction was a risk factor for the development of albuminuria, and that age‐dependent arterial stiffness was associated with reduced eGFR without macroalbuminuria in the 2014 cohort.ConclusionsDuring the past 20 years in Japan, the prevalence of albuminuria declined, whereas that of reduced eGFR increased. Additionally, obesity‐ and high age‐related vascular damage seems to be associated with macroalbuminuria and reduced eGFR without macroalbuminuria, respectively.
Predictors of response to omalizumab and relapse in chronic spontaneous urticaria: a study of 470 patients
Authors: Marzano A.V. , Genovese G. , Casazza G. , Fierro M.T. , Dapavo P. , Crimi N. , Ferrucci S. , Pepe P. , Liberati S. , Pigatto P.D. , Offidani A. , Martina E. , Girolomoni G. , Rovaris M. , Foti C. , Stingeni L. , Cristaudo A. , Canonica G.W. , Nettis E. , Asero R. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundChronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is defined as spontaneous occurrence of wheals and/or angioedema for ≥6 weeks. Omalizumab is a monoclonal anti‐IgE antibody effective in refractory CSU, but its mechanism of action and markers predictive of response remain not completely defined.ObjectivesTo correlate baseline levels of two proposed biomarkers, total IgE (bIgE) and d‐dimer (bd‐dimer), and clinical parameters to omalizumab response and to relapses after drug withdrawal.MethodsIn this retrospective Italian multicentre study, clinical data were collected in 470 CSU patients, and bIgE and bd‐dimer were measured in 340 and 342 patients, respectively. Disease activity was determined by Urticaria Activity Score 7 (UAS7) at week 1 and 12 after omalizumab starting. Relapses were evaluated during a 2‐ and 3‐month interval after a first and a second course of treatment, respectively.ResultsbIgE correlated to a good response to omalizumab since levels were significantly higher in responders than non‐responders (P = 0.0002). Conversely, bd‐dimer did not correlate to response. There was no correlation between both bIgE and d‐dimer and either first or second relapse. Disease duration was significantly longer in patients who experienced either first or second relapse (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.0105, respectively), while baseline UAS7 correlated only to first relapse (P = 0.0023).ConclusionsOur study confirms bIgE as a reliable biomarker predicting response to omalizumab in CSU, while it does not support the usefulness of bd‐dimer unlike previous findings. CSU duration before omalizumab and baseline UAS7 may be clinical markers of relapse risk.
Biocomposite edible coatings based on cross linked‐sesame protein and mango puree for the shelf life stability of fresh‐cut mango fruit
Authors: Sharma Loveleen , Saini Charanjiv Singh , Sharma Harish Kumar , Sandhu Kawaljit Singh 
Published: November 2018

AbstractEffect of bi‐layer coatings based on native/crosslinked sesame protein guar gum and mango puree with the addition of guar gum and calcium chloride on storage of fresh cut mango for 15 days was evaluated. Fruits were coated by layer by layer dipping method by crosslinked sesame protein/guar gum (coating‐ A) as a first layer and mango puree/calcium chloride (coating‐B) as a second layer and stored in polystyrene trays. Drip loss %, firmness, °Brix, titrable acidity, ascorbic acid content, total phenolic content, carotenoids, total sugars, and reducing sugars for both coated and noncoated samples were determined during 1, 3, 7, 12, and 15 days of storage. Results exhibited that all coating formulations have potential to improve the shelf life and maintain the quality of fresh cut mango for 15 days. Coatings from crosslinked proteins were found to be more effective as compared with native sesame protein based coatings.Practical applicationsSignificant amount of mango (Mangifera indica L.) fruit is wasted due to its climacteric nature and short life. Coatings have been applied to prolong shelf life and reduce wastage. The samples were coated with bi‐layer coatings based on native/crosslinked sesame protein, guar gum, mango puree, and calcium chloride. Based on the results obtained from drip loss percentage, chemical, and organoleptic characteristics, it was concluded that the effect of coating as well as storage temperature on the quality and shelf life of the fruit was significantly different when compare to noncoated samples. Sesame protein isolate crosslinked with organic acids can be act as a better and cost effective substitute of coatings obtained from other sources.
Self‐injurious behaviours in rhesus macaques: Potential glial mechanisms
Authors: Ramsey J. , Martin E. C. , Purcell O. M. , Lee K. M. , MacLean A. G. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundSelf‐injurious behaviour (SIB) can be classified as intentional, direct injuring of body tissue usually without suicidal intent. In its non‐suicidal form it is commonly seen as a clinical sign of borderline personality disorder, autism, PTSD, depression, and anxiety affecting a wide range of ages and conditions. In rhesus macaques SIB is most commonly manifested through hair plucking, self‐biting, self‐hitting, and head banging. SIB in the form of self‐biting is observed in approximately 5–15% of individually housed monkeys. Recently, glial cells are becoming recognised as key players in regulating behaviours.MethodThe goal of this study was to determine the role of glial activation, including astrocytes, in macaques that had displayed SIB. To this end, we performed immunohistochemistry and next generation sequence of brain tissues from rhesus macaques with SIB.ResultsOur studies showed increased vimentin, but not nestin, expression on astrocytes of macaques displaying SIB. Initial RNA Seq analyses indicate activation of pathways involved in tissue remodelling, neuroinflammation and cAMP signalling.ConclusionsGlia are most probably activated in primates with self‐injury, and are therefore potential novel targets for therapeutics.
Crystal structure and catalytic activity of the PPM1K N94K mutant
Authors: Dolatabad Meisam Rostaminasab , Guo Lu‐lu , Xiao Peng , Zhu Zhongliang , He Qing‐tao , Yang Du‐xiao , Qu Chang‐xiu , Guo Sheng‐chao , Fu Xiao‐lei , Li Rui‐rui , Ge Lin , Hu Ke‐jia , Liu Hong‐da , Shen Yue‐mao , Yu Xiao , Sun Jin‐peng , Zhang Peng‐ju 
Published: November 2018

AbstractsProtein Phosphatase Mg2+/Mn2+‐Dependent 1K (PPM1K),also named as PP2Cm or branched‐chain α‐ketoacid dehydrogenase complex phosphatase, is a member of the metal‐dependent phosphatase family and an important metabolic regulator. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in PPM1K contributing to protein functional defects have been found to be associated with numerous human diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, maple syrup urine disease, type 2 diabetes, and neurological disease. PPM1K N94K is an identified missense mutant produced by one of the SNPs in the human PPM1K coding sequence. However, the effects of the N94K mutant on its activity and structural property have not been defined. Here, we performed a detailed enzymological study using steady‐state kinetics in the presence of pNPP or phospho‐peptide substrates and crystallographic analyses of the wild‐type and N94K PPM1K. The PPM1K‐N94K significantly impaired its Mg2+‐dependent catalytic activity and structural analysis demonstrated that the N94K mutation induced a conformational change in the key residue in coordinating the Mg2+ in the active site. Specifically, three Mg2+ were located in the active site of the PPM1K N94K instead of two Mg2+ in the PPM1K wild type. Therefore, our results provide a structure basis for the metal ion‐dependent PPM1K‐N94K phosphatase activity.
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Symptom Science Research in the Era of Big Data: Leveraging Interdisciplinary Resources and Partners to Make It Happen
Authors: Corwin Elizabeth J. , Jones Dean P. , Dunlop Anne L. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractPurposeThe purpose of this article is to review the concept of team science as well as its benefits and challenges, within the framework of how including new ways of knowing can advance nursing science.DesignAn exemplar highlights the experiences and strategies utilized by researchers at one school of nursing as they increasingly became involved in team science.MethodsPresented are the steps and processes that occurred as team science became the norm, expanding to include a network of linked investigators.ConclusionsAlthough challenges to conducting team science exist, a reflection on how team science fits into the theoretical framework of Carper's Patterns of Knowing highlights its potential to drive nursing research forward.Clinical RelevanceLeading or participating in team science can expand the lens by which nursing scientists conduct research that is meaningful to patients and families.
Potential biomarkers of the mature intervertebral disc identified at the single cell level
Authors: Li Kangning , Kapper Devin , Youngs Brittany , Kocsis Victoria , Mondal Sumona , Kraus Petra , Lufkin Thomas 
Published: November 2018

AbstractIntervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and trauma is a major socio‐economic burden and the focus of cell‐based regenerative medicine approaches. Despite numerous ongoing clinical trials attempting to replace ailing IVD cells with mesenchymal stem cells, a solid understanding of the identity and nature of cells in a healthy mature IVD is still in need of refinement. Although anatomically simple, the IVD is comprised of heterogeneous cell populations. Therefore, methods involving cell pooling for RNA profiling could be misleading. Here, by using RNA in situ hybridization and z proportion test, we have identified potential novel biomarkers through single cell assessment. We quantified the proportion of RNA transcribing cells for 50 genetic loci in the outer annulus fibrosus (AF) and nucleus pulposus (NP) in coccygeal bovine discs isolated from tails of four skeletally mature animals. Our data reconfirm existing data and suggest 10 novel markers such as Lam1 and Thy1 in the outer AF and Gli1, Gli3, Noto, Scx, Ptprc, Sox2, Zscan10 and LOC101904175 in the NP, including pluripotency markers, that indicate stemness potential of IVD cells. These markers could be added to existing biomarker panels for cell type characterization. Furthermore, our data once more demonstrate heterogeneity in cells of the AF and NP, indicating the need for single cell assessment by methods such as RNA in situ hybridization. Our work refines the molecular identity of outer AF and NP cells, which can benefit future regenerative medicine and tissue engineering strategies in humans.
Autologous platelet‐rich gel for facial rejuvenation and wrinkle amelioration: A pilot study
Authors: Jiménez Gómez Natalia , Pino Castresana Ander , Segurado Miravalles Gonzalo , Truchuelo Díez Mayte , Troya Estavillo María , Anitua Aldecoa Eduardo , Jaén Olasolo Pedro 
Published: November 2018

SummaryBackgroundThe demand for safe and minimally invasive soft tissue augmentation procedures has increased. Recently, a novel injectable gel based on the autologous platelet rich in growth factor (PRGF) technology has been developed to provide long‐term shape and volume stability. It can be customized into low (LVG) or high viscosity (HVG) gel forms to meet different dermatological requirements.ObjectivesThe mechanical and biological properties of both gel forms have been evaluated. The clinical efficacy and safety of this autologous procedure were also evaluated.MethodsGrowth factor content and biomechanical properties of both gel forms were determined. The in vitro biological capacity on human dermal fibroblasts proliferation was assessed. Clinical performance analysis over ten patients was evaluated by standardized macrophotographs, 3D topographic images, and ultrasound analysis over periocular and nasolabial areas.ResultsBoth gel types showed similar growth factor concentration. HVG showed a higher stiffness profile indicating its suitability for deeper tissue defect viscosupplementation while LVG showed optimal rheologic characteristics for superficial volumization. Both gels showed a noticeable biostability after catalytic enzyme degradation. Both forms significantly increased the mitogenic activity of dermal fibroblasts. All patients referred to be highly satisfied and presented optimal clinical results after one month. Overall clinical improvement was maintained for 16 weeks. At the end of the study, the ultrasound examination revealed a cutaneous regenerative effect. No adverse events occurred.ConclusionsThis preliminary study suggests that autologous platelet gels have desirable mechanical and bioactive properties and allows moderate wrinkle reduction and efficient facial volume reposition with natural results.