LKB1 Destabilizes Microtubules in Myoblasts and Contributes to Myoblast Differentiation

Background: Skeletal muscle myoblast differentiation and fusion into multinucleate myotubes is associated with dramatic cytoskeletal changes. We find that microtubules in differentiated myotubes are highly stabilized, but premature microtubule stabilization blocks differentiation. Factors responsible for microtubule destabilization in myoblasts have not been identified. Findings: We find that a transient decrease in microtubule stabilization early during myoblast differentiation precedes the ultimate microtubule stabilization seen in differentiated myotubes. We report a role for the serine-threonine kinase LKB1 in both microtubule destabilization and myoblast differentiation. LKB1 overexpression reduced microtubule elongation in a Nocodazole washout assay, and LKB1 RNAi increased it, showing LKB1 destabilizes microtubule assembly in myoblasts. LKB1 levels and activity increased during myoblast differentiation, along with activation of the known LKB1 substrates AMPactivated protein kinase (AMPK) and microtubule affinity regulating kinases (MARKs). LKB1 overexpression accelerated differentiation, whereas RNAi impaired it. Conclusions: Reduced microtubule stability precedes myoblast differentiation and the associated ultimate microtubule stabilization seen in myotubes. LKB1 plays a positive role in microtubule destabilization in myoblasts and in myoblast differentiation. This work suggests a model by which LKB1-induced microtubule destabilization facilitates the cytoskeleta

Social media marketing strategy: definition, conceptualization, taxonomy, validation, and future agenda

Although social media use is gaining increasing importance as a component of firms’ portfolio of strategies, scant research has systematically consolidated and extended knowledge on social media marketing strategies (SMMSs). To fill this research gap, we first define SMMS, using social media and marketing strategy dimensions. This is followed by a conceptualization of the developmental process of SMMSs, which comprises four major components, namely drivers, inputs, throughputs, and outputs. Next, we propose a taxonomy that classifies SMMSs into four types according to their strategic maturity level: social commerce strategy, social content strategy, social monitoring strategy, and social CRM strategy. We subsequently validate this taxonomy of SMMSs using information derived from prior empirical studies, as well with data collected from in-depth interviews and a quantitive survey among social media marketing managers. Finally, we suggest fruitful directions for future research based on input received from scholars specializing in the field

Is the meiofauna a good indicator for climate change and anthropogenic impacts?

Our planet is changing, and one of the most pressing challenges facing the scientific community revolves around understanding how ecological communities respond to global changes. From coastal to deep-sea ecosystems, ecologists are exploring new areas of research to find model organisms that help predict the future of life on our planet. Among the different categories of organisms, meiofauna offer several advantages for the study of marine benthic ecosystems. This paper reviews the advances in the study of meiofauna with regard to climate change and anthropogenic impacts. Four taxonomic groups are valuable for predicting global changes: foraminifers (especially calcareous forms), nematodes, copepods and ostracods. Environmental variables are fundamental in the interpretation of meiofaunal patterns and multistressor experiments are more informative than single stressor ones, revealing complex ecological and biological interactions. Global change has a general negative effect on meiofauna, with important consequences on benthic food webs. However, some meiofaunal species can be favoured by the extreme conditions induced by global change, as they can exhibit remarkable physiological adaptations. This review highlights the need to incorporate studies on taxonomy, genetics and function of meiofaunal taxa into global change impact research

Expressive therapies continuum: an inclusive cultural landscape for all Arts Therapies

ECArTE - European Consortium for Arts Therapies in EducationThe Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC) is a theoretical and practical framework that helps define and explain the myriad therapeutic uses of art expression. It is a foundational theory which can increase respect and communication among diverse arts therapies practitioners. The panel will show how the ETC has been used successfully in various cultures across the world to guide expressive therapies. The ETC is a comprehensive theoretical structure which explains client interactions during expressive activities. It includes three bipolar levels arranged in a hierarchical fashion to include all forms of creative expression from simple sensory/kinesthetic activities (dance, movement, music, art) through perceptual/affective experiences (art, music, drama), to complex cognitive processes and multileveled symbols (poetry, drama, art). Creative expression is the overarching experience. This manner of viewing interaction in expressive experiences encourages therapists to understand the processes taking place from a holistic point of view that includes functioning of body, mind, and spirit and is applicable across all cultures. Expressive arts therapy guided by the ETC begins where the client is comfortable and proceeds with the gradual introduction of new media, experiences, and/or discussion to gently reduce overused functions and/or increase underused or blocked ones. It aids the implementation of expressive arts interventions, tracks the progress of therapy, and helps organize termination. Art therapists actively demonstrate the power of creativity through their regular expressive endeavors, but sometimes can believe that theirs is the only correct way to conceptualize and conduct therapy. The structure of the ETC can explain therapeutic experiences from all psychological theories and expressive therapies, and in its inclusiveness encourages respectful comprehension of every approach. The ETC offers a common language to describe expressive activities which can increase understanding among expressive therapy professionals coming to the field from different orientations, backgrounds and cultures