bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancing atrial‐specific gene expression using a calsequestrin cis‐regulatory module 4 with a sarcolipin promoter
Authors: Yoo Jimeen , Kohlbrenner Erik , Kim Okkil , Hajjar Roger J. , Jeong Dongtak 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundCardiac gene therapy using the adeno‐associated virus serotype 9 vector is widely used because of its efficient transduction. However, the promoters used to drive expression often cause off‐target localization. To overcome this, studies have applied cardiac‐specific promoters, although expression is debilitated compared to that of ubiquitous promoters. To address these issues in the context of atrial‐specific gene expression, an enhancer calsequestrin cis‐regulatory module 4 (CRM4) and the highly atrial‐specific promoter sarcolipin were combined to enhance expression and minimize off tissue expression.MethodsTo observe expression and bio‐distribution, constructs were generated using two different reporter genes: luciferase and enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP). The ubiquitous cytomegalovirus (CMV), sarcolipin (SLN) and CRM4 combined with sarcolipin (CRM4.SLN) were compared and analyzed using the luciferase assay, western blotting, a quantitative polymerase chain reaction and fluorescence imaging.ResultsThe CMV promoter containing vectors showed the strongest expression in vitro and in vivo. However, the module SLN combination showed enhanced atrial expression and a minimized off‐target effect even when compared with the individual SLN promoter.ConclusionsFor gene therapy involving atrial gene transfer, the CRM4.SLN combination is a promising alternative to the use of the CMV promoter. CRM4.SLN had significant atrial expression and minimized extra‐atrial expression.
The time has come to study dynamics at work
Authors: Vantilborgh Tim , Hofmans Joeri , Judge Timothy A. 
Published: November 2018

SummaryMost, if not all, workplace phenomena are dynamic, meaning that they emerge, evolve, and dissolve over time. Yet, the role of time is commonly overlooked in OB literature. This special issue showcases how a temporal process‐oriented lens can be used to study dynamics of workplace phenomena. In this editorial, we define the term dynamics, arguing that research on workplace dynamics focuses on how within‐person (or more broadly, within‐unit) processes unfold over time. Moreover, we zoom in on the diverse roles of time, illustrating the rich diversity in research on workplace dynamics, and we highlight three specific challenges for scholars wanting to pursue this line of research. We conclude that the time has come to move from a differential to a temporal and process‐oriented perspective, allowing us to understand what happens, how things happen, and why things happen at the workplace.
Association Between Flow Acceleration in the Carotid Artery and Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Chang Chun‐Wei , Wai Yau‐Yau , Lim Siew‐Na , Wu Tony 
Published: November 2018

ObjectivesIn physiologic pulsatile flow, velocity acceleration is an independent factor determining wall shear stress experienced by the vascular endothelium. The purpose of this study was to evaluate Doppler indices of systolic velocity acceleration in extracranial cerebral vessels and the occurrence of intracranial aneurysms.MethodsWe reviewed medical records and 3.0‐T brain magnetic resonance imaging with 3‐dimensional time‐of‐flight magnetic resonance angiography of 1323 adults who underwent health checkups from June 2006 to November 2011, in whom 53 intracranial aneurysms were identified in 45 patients. Doppler ultrasound parameters of the carotid and vertebral arteries were analyzed in these 45 patients with aneurysms and compared with another 45 control participants matched for age and sex. We defined the maximum systolic acceleration (ACCmax) as the maximum slope of the early phase of systolic acceleration on the Doppler waveform and the maximum acceleration index (AImax) as the ratio of the ACCmax and peak systolic velocity.ResultsThe Doppler analysis showed a significantly increased AImax and ACCmax in the common carotid artery (CCA), internal carotid artery, and vertebral artery in the aneurysm group. A cutoff 13.89 s−1 for the AImax of the CCA had sensitivity of 80% with a negative predictive value of 99% for intracranial aneurysms.ConclusionsThis study suggests that the AImax of the CCA with a cutoff of 13.89 s−1 may be an alternative to 3‐dimensional time‐of‐flight magnetic resonance angiography or computed tomographic angiography as a screening tool for intracranial aneurysms. Further prospective studies are needed to validate the diagnostic performance and cost‐effectiveness of these indices for screening.
Effects of Low‐Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Therapy on the Temporomandibular Joint Complex in Conjunction With a Fixed Functional Appliance: A Prospective 3‐Dimensional Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Study
Authors: Maurya Raj Kumar , Jayan Balakrishna , Singh Harpreet , Nakra Oonit , Sharma Poonam 
Published: November 2018

ObjectivesThis prospective study aimed to analyze 3‐dimensional changes in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) complex with a synergistic effect of functional jaw orthopedics using a fixed functional appliance and low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) therapy.MethodsForty patients with skeletal class II malocclusion were randomly assigned to 4 groups (2 control groups and 2 test groups) of 10 patients each. After insertion of the fixed functional appliance, the test group was stimulated with LIPUS therapy in the TMJ region bilaterally for 20 minutes daily for first 10 days and thereafter at least 3 times per week until complete mandibular advancement was achieved. Three‐dimensional images obtained with a cone beam computed tomographic scanner were used to analyze the changes in the TMJ complex at the prefunctional stage and after completion of functional appliance therapy. Direct intragroup and intergroup comparisons for different morphometric variables were conducted with the Student t test.ResultsThe 40 patients included 20 male and 20 female patients between the ages of 12 and 16 years (mean age ± SD, 13.2 ± 1.8 years). Both the test groups and the control groups showed statistically significant variable changes in condylar head position and morphometric changes in relation to the joint space analysis (mean differences, –1.000 and –1.080 mm; P < .05). However, no significant differences were found during the intergroup comparisons at the prefunctional and postfunctional stages for the variables examined, except for the measurements of the linear distance of the condyle to the external auditory meatus on both the right and left sides at the prefunctional phase.ConclusionsLow‐intensity pulsed ultrasound therapy positively affects the quantum of the joint space, thus proving to be a promising adjunct in enhancing treatment outcomes of functional jaw orthopedics in growing patients with skeletal class II malocclusions.
Detection of Concealed Uterine Prolapse in the Volume‐Rendering Mode of 4‐Dimensional Translabial Ultrasound: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Wen Lieming , Li Yinbo , Qing Zhenzhen , Liu Minghui 
Published: November 2018

ObjectivesTo assess the association between a widened vaginal canal on volume‐rendered ultrasound (US) imaging with concealed uterine prolapse.MethodsThis work was a retrospective study of 253 women who had an International Continence Society Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System examination and translabial US examination. The anteroposterior diameter of the vaginal canal was measured in the rendered axial plane for all women. The widened vaginal canal was defined as an anteroposterior diameter above the 95th centile in women with normal uterine descent. The performance of the widened vaginal canal for prediction of clinical uterine prolapse was tested.ResultsValid data from 233 women were analyzed. A mean anteroposterior diameter of 5.6 mm (range, 2.3–10.5 mm; 95th percentile, 10 mm) was seen in 119 women with normal uterine descent. An eye‐shaped vaginal canal with a mean anteroposterior diameter of 17.8 mm (range, 10.7–26.8 mm) was seen in 69 women with uterine prolapse. A widened vaginal canal was defined as an anteroposterior diameter of greater than 10 mm. Of 45 concealed uterine descents, 32 had a widened vaginal canal (ie, anteroposterior diameter > 10 mm), and 27 had clinical uterine prolapse. The κ test showed good agreement between physical and US findings (κ = 0.76; P < .001). Ultrasound findings had excellent predictive value (odds ratio, 82.3) for the diagnosis of clinical uterine prolapse.ConclusionsAn eye‐shaped vaginal canal with an anteroposterior diameter of greater than 10 mm in the rendered axial plane was a sign of uterine prolapse. This sign may be helpful for detecting concealed uterine prolapse in complex pelvic organ prolapse.
Sustainability and future food security—A global perspective for livestock production
Authors: Michalk David L. , Kemp David R. , Badgery Warwick B. , Wu Jianping , Zhang Yingjun , Thomassin Paul J. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractGrasslands are the predominant forage source for grazing animals and cover more of the Earth's land than any other major vegetation type. Their values are not always recognised, and conversion to other uses is continuing at a high rate leading to greater environmental and socio‐economic problems. Overgrazing is one of the main drivers of productivity decline of grasslands, reflecting the pressures from excessive human populations and a demand for food. Some 20% of the world's grasslands are in a severely degraded state; others have suffered shifts to less‐desirable species. Biodiversity and greenhouse gas production have also been particular concerns. Estimates of productivity change all show a decline over recent decades, yet animal numbers continue to increase, particularly in the developing world. This paper critically reviews the projected demands for livestock products, driven largely by human population growth; the current health of the world's grasslands and how current livestock systems that depend on land conversion and overexploitation of grassland are inappropriate and need to be improved. Central to this argument is that small holders in the developing world will be responsible for a large amount of the future red meat production, and this can be achieved through more efficient livestock production systems using lower stocking rates. The Australian sheep industry is provided as an example of how livestock production and reduced environmental impacts can be achieved with improved efficiency. Changes will require smallholders to transition to a competitive, market‐oriented livestock industry, which will provide challenges.
A 55‐year‐old natural experiment gives evidence of the effects of changes in fire frequency on ecosystem properties in a seasonal subtropical dry forest
Authors: Kowaljow Esteban , Morales Mariano S. , Whitworth‐Hulse Juan I. , Zeballos Sebastián R. , Giorgis Melisa A. , Rodríguez Catón Milagros , Gurvich Diego E. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractFire frequency has been highlighted as an important component of fire effects on ecosystems; nevertheless, there is scarce information about how fire modulates changes in ecosystem properties, particularly for subtropical dry forests. A long‐term natural experiment and a multiscale approach were used to analyze changes in ecosystem properties in a subtropical dry forest subjected to contrasting fire regimes. Measurements were taken in two adjacent sites that had contrasting fire regimes (low/high fire frequency), and vegetation and soil analyses were combined with dendrochronological methods. Ten plots (20 × 20 m) were established in each site and soil (depth, chemical, and biological properties), and vegetation (species composition and growth of the dominant tree, Lithraea molleoides) variables were measured. Fire scars in L. molleoides were useful in determining fire history. Shrubs and grasses were more abundant in the high fire frequency site, with a high cover of the exotic grass Melinis repens, whereas trees and vines were more abundant in the low fire frequency site. Soil of the high fire frequency site tended to have lower C and nutrient content as well a significant lower depth than those of the low fire frequency site. Growth of L. molleoides individuals was lower in the high fire frequency site. Our results suggest that the long‐term effects of high fire frequency probably increase both soil loss and fire frequency in the future due to changes in plant composition, indicating that frequent burning is not a sustainable management option for this seasonal subtropical dry forest.
Quantitative assessment of vestibular otopathology in granulomatosis with polyangitis: A temporal bone study
Authors: Nogaki Taketoshi , Keskin Nevra , Azuma Takahiro , Paparella Michael M. , Nadol Joseph B. , Cureoglu Sebahattin 
Published: November 2018

ObjectiveTo investigate the temporal bone histopathology of vasculitis, especially in the vestibular organs, in granulomatosis with polyangitis (GPA).MethodsUsing light and differential interference contrast microscopy, we examined 12 human temporal bones from six deceased GPA patients and 12 histopathologically normal human temporal bones from six deceased age‐matched patients.ResultsIn the GPA group, three patients had undergone tympanostomy tube placement. Two of them had suffered mixed hearing loss; one, sensorineural hearing loss; and one, conductive hearing loss. Of the 12 specimens in the GPA group, the granulation tissue invaded the round window niche in seven; cochlear hair cells were not preserved in five. Hemosiderin was deposited in the stria vascularis in eight specimens, in the ampulla or semicircular duct in 10, and in the vestibule in three. The spiral ligament showed severe loss of cellularity in two specimens. In the GPA group, type I vestibular hair cell density was significantly decreased; however, type II vestibular hair cell density did not significantly differ between the GPA group and the control group.ConclusionOur histopathologic findings in human temporal bone specimens of GPA patients delineated changes in the tympanic membrane, middle ear cavity, round window membrane, organ of Corti, stria vascularis, spiral ligament, ampulla, semicircular duct, and vestibule. Type I vestibular hair cell density significantly decreased in the GPA group, as compared with the control group.Level of EvidenceN/A
Addition Homo‐ and Copolymerizations of Dicyclopentadiene and 5‐n‐Hexylnorbornene in the Presence of Pd‐N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes
Authors: Wozniak Alyona I. , Bermesheva Evgeniya V. , Gavrilova Natalia N. , Ilyasov Igor R. , Nechaev Mikhail S. , Asachenko Andrey F. , Topchiy Maxim A. , Gribanov Pavel S. , Bermeshev Maxim V. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractHerein for the first time addition homopolymerization of dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) and its copolymerization with 5‐n‐hexylnorbornene in the presence of different Pd‐N‐heterocyclic carbene complexes activated by a borate (Na+[B(3,5‐(CF3)2C6H5)4]− (NaBARF)) or methylaluminoxane (MAO) are investigated. It is found that systems based on Pd‐N‐heterocyclic carbene complex in combination with NaBARF or MAO are effective catalysts and a Pd‐N‐heterocyclic carbene complex/NaBARF system allows for the addition polymerization of these monomers in air. The influence of the N‐heterocyclic carbene structure, the nature of cocatalyst, and solvent on the catalyst activity of a system based on Pd‐N‐heterocyclic carbene complex are determined. The properties of the obtained addition polydicyclopentadiene (poly(DCPD)) such as thermal stability, solid‐state structure, and porosity are studied. The synthesized poly(DCPD) possesses Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller surface area as high as 155 m2 g−1 and so addition polymerization of DCPD can be considered as a single‐step and convenient way to synthesize of porous polymers from a norbornene derivative.
Highly Swellable Hydrogels from Waterborne Poly(Vinylamine‐co‐Acetamide)
Authors: Fischer Thorsten , Köhler Jens , Keul Helmut , Singh Smriti , Möller Martin 
Published: November 2018

AbstractHydrogels consisting of a hydrophilic polymer backbone are attractive candidates for the formation of superabsorbent hydrogels (SHs). Mainly, such hydrogels are prepared via free radical polymerization. Herein, poly(N‐vinylamine‐co‐N‐vinylacetamide) [P(VAm‐co‐NVA)] with different amine‐to‐amide ratios are crosslinked with phenyl carbonate telechelic poly(ethylene glycol) (PC‐PEG‐PC) to form a hydrogel in the presence of a base. The structure property relationship in terms of the amide‐to‐amine ratio, the carbonate‐to‐amine ratio, and the base‐to‐amine ratio is investigated by swelling experiments and rheology.13C NMR is used to determine the degree of crosslinking which can further influence the swelling behavior and the mechanical properties of the gels. The maximum swelling ratio of the hydrogels is found to be 97 000% with respect to the dry gel, with a storage modulus of 4 kPa of the as‐prepared gel. This swelling behavior of the obtained gels is above the state of the art and has a possibility to be tuned further.
Dual‐Stimuli‐Responsive Paclitaxel Delivery Nanosystems from Chemically Conjugate Self‐Assemblies for Carcinoma Treatment
Authors: Xu Jing‐Wen , Ge Xin , Lv Li‐Hua , Xu Feng , Luo Yan‐Ling 
Published: November 2018

AbstractDiselenide‐bond‐linked poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)‐paclitaxel chemical conjugates are synthesized as a drug release carrier. The conjugates can self‐assemble into “core–shell” nanoscaled micelles in aqueous solution and show thermal and redox dual‐responsiveness. The conjugates can afford a high encapsulation efficiency of up to 72.3%, and deliver hydrophobic anticancer drug paclitaxel in a temperature and oxidization or reduction stress‐mode. The in vitro 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2‐H‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and in vivo anticancer assays are performed to assess the cytotoxicity and anticancer activity of the conjugates, suggesting that the developed conjugates can be used to treat carcinoma as a novel and highly efficient drug delivery system.
Familial NEDD4L variant in periventricular nodular heterotopia and in a fetus with hypokinesia and flexion contractures
Authors: Elbracht Miriam , Kraft Florian , Begemann Matthias , Holschbach Petra , Mull Michael , Kabat Ildiko M. , Müller Britta , Häusler Martin , Kurth Ingo , Hehr Ute 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundMutations in the HECT domain of NEDD4L have recently been identified in a cohort of eight patients with a syndromic form of bilateral periventricular nodular heterotopia (PVNH) in association with neurodevelopmental delay, cleft palate, and toe syndactyly (PVNH7).MethodsCase report based on NGS sequencing.ResultsHere, we describe a girl with a novel heterozygous NEDD4L missense variant, p.Tyr679His, and characteristic clinical findings, including bilateral periventricular nodular heterotopia, cleft palate and mild toe syndactyly. Molecular testing from peripheral blood identified the healthy father to carry the NEDD4L variant in mosaic state. Notably, a previous pregnancy of the couple had been terminated due to a complex fetal developmental disorder, including hypokinesia and flexion contractures. Upon review, this affected fetus was also shown to carry the familial NEDD4L variant.ConclusionOur findings may suggest a broader spectrum of NEDD4L‐associated phenotypes, including severe prenatal neurodevelopmental manifestations, which might represent yet another genetic form of fetal hypokinesia with flexion contractures.
Risk perception before and after presymptomatic genetic testing for Huntington's disease: Not always what one might expect
Authors: Stuttgen Kelsey , Dvoskin Rachel , Bollinger Juli , McCague Allison , Shpritz Barnett , Brandt Jason , Mathews Debra 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundIn 1983, Huntington's disease (HD) was the first genetic disease mapped using DNA polymorphisms. Shortly thereafter, presymptomatic genetic testing for HD began in the context of two research studies. One of these trials was at the Johns Hopkins University Huntington's Disease Center.MethodsAs part of the protocol, risk perception (RP) values were collected at 16 time points before and after testing. The current study investigated changes in RP scores before and after genetic testing. Of the 186 participants with pre‐ and post‐testing RP values, 39 also had contemporaneous research clinic notes and recent semi‐structured interviews available for analysis.ResultsThe data reveal tremendous diversity in RP. While the RP scores of most individuals change in the way one would expect, 27% of participants demonstrated unexpected changes in RP after disclosure. A significantly higher proportion of individuals who received an expanded repeat result had unexpected changes in RP, compared with those who received normal repeat results.ConclusionsThe data suggest that individuals’ RP is influenced by more than merely the results of genetic testing. This finding is important for genetic counselors and healthcare providers, as it suggests that even comprehensive patient education and disclosure of genetic test results may not ensure that people fully appreciate their disease risk.
CTC1 mutations in a Brazilian family with progeroid features and recurrent bone fractures
Authors: Sargolzaeiaval Forough , Zhang Jiaming , Schleit Jennifer , Lessel Davor , Kubisch Christian , Precioso Debora R. , Sillence David , Hisama Fuki M. , Dorschner Michael , Martin George M. , Oshima Junko 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundCerebroretinal microangiopathy with calcifications and cysts (CRMCC) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by pathogenic variants of the conserved telomere maintenance component 1 (CTC1) gene. The CTC1 forms the telomeric capping complex, CST, which functions in telomere homeostasis and replication.MethodsA Brazilian pedigree and an Australian pedigree were referred to the International Registry of Werner Syndrome (Seattle, WA, USA), with clinical features of accelerated aging and recurrent bone fractures. Whole exome sequencing was performed to identify the genetic causes.ResultsWhole exome sequencing of the Brazilian pedigree revealed compound heterozygous pathogenic variants in CTC1: a missense mutation (c.2959C>T, p.Arg987Trp) and a novel stop codon change (c.322C>T, p.Arg108*). The Australian patient carried two novel heterozygous CTC1 variants, c.2916G>T, p.Val972Gly and c.2926G>T, p.Val976Phe within the same allele. Both heterozygous variants were inherited from the unaffected father, excluding the diagnosis of CRMCC in this pedigree. Cell biological studies demonstrated accumulation of double strand break foci in lymphoblastoid cell lines derived from the patients. Increased DSB foci were extended to non‐telomeric regions of the genome, in agreement with previous biochemical studies showing a preferential binding of CTC1 protein to GC‐rich sequences.ConclusionCTC1 pathogenic variants can present with unusual manifestations of progeria accompanied with recurrent bone fractures. Further studies are needed to elucidate the disease mechanism leading to the clinical presentation with intra‐familial variations of CRMCC.
An intelligent power manager with energy harvesting for internet of things applications
Authors: Hsieh Jian‐Yu , Chen Wei‐Ting , Lee Jen‐Ting 
Published: November 2018

AbstractAn intelligent power manager with solar and wireless energy harvesting for internet of things (IoT) applications has been realized. The intelligent power manager can detect the power consumption of the wearable devices and upload it to the database through the Wi‐Fi module. And then the stored data of the power consumption can be accessed by using the app of the portable devices. The solar and wireless energy harvesting has been introduced for extending the battery life of the machines. The measured conversion efficiency of the rectifier in the intelligent power manager is 23%. And the measured power consumption of the intelligent power manager is 190 mW.