bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toward a novel semi‐invasive activation mapping tool for the diagnosis of supraventricular arrhythmias from the esophagus
Authors: Sweda Romy , Wildhaber Reto A. , Mortier Simone , Bruegger Dominik , Niederhauser Thomas , Goette Josef , Jacomet Marcel , Tanner Hildegard , Haeberlin Andreas
Published: April 2019

Aims

Supraventricular arrhythmia diagnosis using the surface electrocardiogram (sECG) is often cumbersome due to limited atrial signal quality. In some instances, use of esophageal electrocardiography (eECG) may facilitate the diagnosis. Here, we present a novel approach to reconstruct cardiac activation maps from eECG recordings.

Methods

eECGs and sECGs were recorded from 19 individuals using standard acquisition tools. From the recordings, algorithms were developed to estimate the esophageal ECG catheter's position and to reconstruct high‐resolution mappings of the cardiac electric activity projected in the esophagus over time.

Results

Esophageal two‐dimensional activation maps were created for five healthy individuals and 14 patients suffering from different arrhythmias. The maps are displayed as time‐dependent contour plots, which not only show voltage over time as conventional ECGs, but also the location, direction, and projected propagation speed of the cardiac depolarization wavefront in the esophagus. Representative examples of sinus rhythm, atrial flutter, and ventricular pre‐excitation are shown.

Conclusion

The methodology presented in this report provides a high‐resolution view of the cardiac electric field in the esophagus. It is the first step toward a three‐dimensional mapping system, which shall be able to reconstruct a three‐dimensional view of the cardiac activation from recordings within the esophagus.
Studies of salivary pepsin in patients with gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Race Caroline , Chowdry Joanna , Russell Jean M. , Corfe Bernard M. , Riley Stuart A.
Published: April 2019

Background

Gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is difficult to diagnose without invasive testing. Peptest (RD Biomed, Hull, UK) is a recently marketed diagnostic tool which aims to quantify salivary pepsin as a marker of reflux, providing a rapid alternative to invasive procedures.

Aim

To evaluate optimal timing for sampling, and to evaluate the accuracy of Peptest against an independent measure.

Methods

Thirty diagnosed GERD patients (12 female, mean age 49 [range 20‐72]) and 20 asymptomatic subjects (14 female, mean age 56 [range 21‐56]) were subject to diurnal saliva sampling, with additional samples for 60 minutes following self‐reported reflux symptoms and triggering of a proximal reflux alarm. Saliva samples were split and were analysed by both Peptest and ELISA with operators for each blinded to sample identity.

Results

Salivary pepsin was detectable in most patients and most volunteers. Peptest scores were significantly lower for patients than controls (P < 0.005). ELISA scores showed no difference between patients and controls. There was no effect of diurnal sampling time (P = 0.75) or time after symptoms (P = 0.76) on Peptest readout. There was no correlation between Peptest and Pepsin ELISA (P = 0.55); Bland‐Altman analysis suggested no agreement between the tests (P = 0.414). Receiver‐operator curve suggests that neither Peptest (P = 0.3328) nor pepsin (P = 0.4476) is useful for predicting GERD.

Conclusion

Salivary pepsin is not a reliable tool for the diagnosis of GERD.
Editorial: breaking the cycle of cough in GERD—neuromodulators to the rescue?
Authors: Naik Rishi D. , Vaezi Michael F.
Published: April 2019

Linked Content

This article is linked to Dong et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15169 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15217.
Polymyxin B enhances acrosomal exocytosis triggered by calcium and the calcium ionophore A23187 in ejaculated boar spermatozoa
Authors: Akter Quzi S. , Rajabi‐Toustani Reza , Shimizu Kenji , Kuwahara Yasushi , Murase Tetsuma
Published: April 2019

Polymyxin B (PMB) is beneficial for boar semen storage since it neutralizes the endotoxin of bacteria. However, the direct effect of PMB on boar spermatozoa has been unknown. This study aimed to examine the effect of PMB on acrosomal exocytosis, an essential process for successful fertilization in boar spermatozoa. Ejaculated spermatozoa stored with BTS extender at 17°C were washed and incubated with 0–100 μM PMB for 20 min and then examined for % total motililty, vigor grade and viability. None of the parameters was significantly different between 0 and 50 μM PMB with a gradual decline at higher concentrations. Thus the effect on acrosomal exocytosis was investigated at 0–50 μM of PMB. Spermatozoa were preincubated with PMB for 10 min, incubated for stimulation of acrosomal exocytosis with Ca2+ and the calcium ionophore A23187 and then fixed with glutaraldehyde at 5, 10 and 15 min. Preincubation with PMB at 0.01–50 μM and 0.05–50 μM resulted in significant enhancement of acrosomal exocytosis at 10 min and 15 min of incubation, respectively. Preincubation with PMB followed by incubation without A23187 did not affect acrosomal exocytosis. These results suggest that PMB exerts effects on the acrosomal exocytosis triggered by Ca2+ and A23187 in boar spermatozoa.
Effect of broth from meat of linseed‐fed cattle on glucose‐stimulated insulin release in healthy male volunteers
Authors: Bacs Zoltan , Szabo Katalin , Czegledi Levente , Nemeth Jozsef , Fraknoi Peter , Kovacs Peter , Javor Andras , Varga Balazs , Juhasz Bela , Szilvassy Zoltan
Published: April 2019

Polyunsaturated fatty acid consumption has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity. We studied if administration of broth with beef meat enriched with polyunsaturated fatty acids influenced glucose‐stimulated insulin release in healthy male volunteers. Broth was made either from cattles undergone dietary supplementation with lightly bruised whole linseed in addition to feeding ad libitum on grass silage (test meal) or from those fed grass silage alone (control meal). Oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) were performed in patients after a 6‐day period of eating 300 ml broth containing 100 g meat once a day in addition to their otherwise normal mixed nourishment. During OGTT, blood samples were taken for blood glucose level and plasma insulin immunoreactivity before and 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 min after the glucose load. Glucose‐stimulated maximum increase in plasma insulin immunoreactivity was 42 ± 6.6 and 81 ± 7.4 mU/ml (p < 0.05) after the test and the control meals, respectively. However, both fasting and postload blood glucose levels were the same after either meal period. The results suggest an insulin‐sensitizing effect of food produced from beef cattle maintained on linseed diet in healthy human volunteers.
Temporal increases in 25‐hydroxyvitamin D in midlife women: Longitudinal results from the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation
Authors: Mitchell Deborah M. , Ruppert Kristin , Udupa Nisha , Bassir Fatima , Darakananda Karin , Solomon Daniel H. , Lian Yinjuan , Cauley Jane A. , Karlamangla Arun S. , Greendale Gail A. , Finkelstein Joel S. , Burnett‐Bowie Sherri‐Ann M.
Published: April 2019

Objective

25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) is critical for bone mineralization and may prevent fractures. Understanding vitamin D deficiency trends in midlife women is particularly important given their concurrent menopausal changes that increase risk for fracture. We aimed to evaluate changes in mean 25(OH)D over time and their determinants in a racially, ethnically and socioeconomically diverse cohort of midlife women.

Design

A multi‐centre prospective cohort study.

Patients

1585 women ages 42‐52 years at baseline.

Measurements

We measured serum 25(OH)D at 2 time points (1998‐2000 and 2009‐2011). Between‐visit change was assessed in the whole cohort and in socioeconomic and demographic subgroups. Among those with vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D <30 nmol/L) at baseline, we evaluated determinants of persistent deficiency at follow‐up.

Results

Mean 25(OH)D increased from 53.8 to 70.0 nmol/L (P < 0.001), and the prevalence of deficiency decreased from 20.4% to 9.7% (P < 0.001). While baseline 25(OH)D differed among subgroups, the changes in 25(OH)D were similar among groups. The proportion of women reporting dietary supplement use increased from 40.8% to 67.1% (P < 0.001), and the increase in 25(OH)D was significantly higher in supplement users. Among women with vitamin D deficiency at baseline, White women and supplement users were less likely to remain deficient at follow‐up.

Conclusions

Among midlife women, temporal increases in 25(OH)D concentrations are driven largely by increases in supplement use. The proportion of women with 25(OH)D <30 nmol/L and thus at high risk for skeletal consequences remains substantial. Targeted screening for vitamin D deficiency in populations at risk for fragility fracture may be advisable.
Epidemiology of uveitis in urban Australia
Authors: Hart Colby T. , Zhu Elena Y. , Crock Carmel , Rogers Sophie L. , Lim Lyndell L.
Published: April 2019

Importance

Few prior studies have described the epidemiology of uveitis in the Australian population.

Background

To report the incidence and period prevalence of active uveitis in Melbourne and detail their subtypes and aetiologies.

Design

Cross‐sectional study using retrospective medical record review in a tertiary hospital.

Participants

Patients with a coded diagnosis of uveitis who attended the emergency department or specialist ocular immunology clinic at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital between November 2014 through October 2015 (N = 1752).

Methods

Medical records were reviewed to confirm the date of diagnosis and subtype of uveitis. Incidence and prevalence rates were calculated utilizing estimates of the adult population residing in areas of greater Melbourne with more than 30 ocular‐related presentations to the emergency department annually.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Presence and date of onset, anatomical distribution and aetiology of uveitis.

Results

During the study period, 734 new cases of uveitis and 502 cases of pre‐existing uveitis requiring active treatment were confirmed. These figures yielded an incidence of 21.54 (CI 20.03, 23.15) per 100 000 person‐years and a period prevalence of 36.27 (CI 34.30, 38.35) per 100 000 persons. The distribution of prevalent uveitis cases was anterior (75%), intermediate (6%), posterior (15%) and panuveitis (4%). An infectious aetiology accounted for 13.4% of cases, a systemic associated disease for 26.4% of cases, and no cause was identified in 60.2% of cases.

Conclusion and Relevance

The incidence and prevalence rates of uveitis in urban Australia were lower than recent studies from the United States and Europe.
Retrospective study comparing anti‐EGFR monoclonal antibody plus cisplatin‐based chemoradiotherapy versus chemoradiotherapy alone for stage II‐IVb nasopharyngeal carcinoma and prognostic value of EGFR and VEGF expression
Authors: Mao Linwei , Tan Jiajie , Wang Fan , Luo Yunfan , Liu Wei , Zeng Fangfang , Yu Bolong , Huang Haoran , Lu Juan , Peng Xiaohong , Liu Xiong
Published: April 2019

Objectives

The benefits of adding anti‐EGFR therapy to conventional chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remain uncertain, possibly because only a subgroup of patients show better outcome. To address this issue, we compared the efficacy of CRT plus cetuximab (CTX) or nimotuzumab (NTZ) to CRT alone for stage II‐IVb NPC and examined possible prognostic indicators, including tumour EGFR and VEGR expression levels.

Design, Setting and Participants

This retrospective study enrolled 1812 patients at initial NPC diagnosis at Nanfang Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University between January 2005 and December 2015. The cetuximab or nimotuzumab plus CRT group (CRT+NTZ/CTX) and the conventional chemoradiotherapy group (CRT) were matched by propensity scoring at 1:5, yielding 282 patients at clinical stage II‐IVb with 47 in the CRT+NTZ/CTX group and 235 in the CRT group.

Main outcome measures

The endpoints of the present study were locoregional relapse‐free survival (LRFS), distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS), overall survival (OS). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to investigate EGFR and VEGF expression levels in 31 patients of the CRT+NTZ/CTX group.

Results

There were no significant differences in LRFS, DMFS and OS, haematologic toxicity reactions, and gastrointestinal reactions between CRT+NTZ/CTX and CRT groups. There was a positive correlation between EGFR and VEGF expression levels. Among CRT+NTZ/CTX patients, those with high EGFR and VEGF expression levels exhibited better DMFS.

Conclusions

Addition of anti‐EGFR to cisplatin‐based CRT appears to benefit only a subset of stage II‐IVb NPC patients, those with elevated EGFR and VEGF expression levels.
Further advancing the expert bioblitz for the rainforest conservation toolkit
Authors: Lowman Meg , Ruppert Nadine , Mohd Nor Siti Azizah
Published: April 2019

Here, we reiterate the importance of the expert bioblitz to advance conservation, as championed in the excellent article by Parker et al. (2018). We contribute three additional ideas to their advances, using our own case study of a recent bioblitz in Malaysia: (a) prioritize inclusivity of diverse participants and stakeholders; (b) execute whole‐forest surveys including canopy access teams and surveying all taxa; and (c) direct the bioblitz toward a specific conservation outcome, in our case a UNESCO biosphere nomination. With the significant degradation of tropical rainforests, we urge colleagues to advocate for expert bioblitzes that specifically lead to long‐term conservation of important biodiversity sites and/or critical sites with easy access to large human populations.
Mucosal human papillomavirus detection and TP53 immunohistochemical expression in non‐melanoma skin cancer in Tunisian patients
Authors: Ben Ayed Ines , Tounsi Haifa , Jaballah Amira , Ardhaoui Monia , Maaloul Afifa , Lassili Thalja , Mezghani Najla , Abdelhak Sonia , Boubaker Samir
Published: April 2019

Background

Several studies have reported the oncogenic role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) carcinogenesis.

Considering that HPV could affect tumor protein 53 (TP53) degradation via E6 oncoprotein, we evaluated the expression of TP53 according to HPV infection and E6 expression.

Methods

Biopsy specimens from 79 NMSCs (28 squamous cell carcinomas, 21 keratoacanthomas and 30 basal cell carcinomas) were enrolled. Nested PCR was used to detect mucosal HPV (mHPV) DNA. Genotyping was performed by reverse line hybridization. Expression of TP53 and E6 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry.

Results

mHPVs were detected in 34.2% (27/79) of NMSC, with 92.6% (25/27) of high‐risk HPV (HR‐HPV) types. HPV16‐E6‐positive expression was observed in all HPV16‐positive samples.

TP53 high expression was found in 51.4% (37/72) of specimens. In this group, 78.4% were HPV‐negative (P = 0.014). TP53 expression was negative in 8/10 of HPV E6‐positive specimens.

Multivariate analysis showed that TP53 was associated with HPV infection independently of histopathologic type (P = 0.005).

Conclusion

This study showed a high prevalence of mHPV in NMSC. Active infections assessed by E6 expression are associated with loss of p53 function, highlighting the involvement of mHPV in NMSC carcinogenesis.
A population genomics insight by 2b‐RAD reveals populations' uniqueness along the Italian coastline in Leptopsammia pruvoti (Scleractinia, Dendrophylliidae)
Authors: Boscari Elisa , Abbiati Marco , Badalamenti Fabio , Bavestrello Giorgio , Benedetti‐Cecchi Lisandro , Cannas Rita , Cau Angelo , Cerrano Carlo , Chimienti Giovanni , Costantini Federica , Fraschetti Simonetta , Ingrosso Gianmarco , Marino Ilaria A. M. , Mastrototaro Francesco , Papetti Chiara , Paterno Marta , Ponti Massimo , Zane Lorenzo , Congiu Leonardo
Published: April 2019

Aim

Marine bioconstructions such as coralligenous formations are hotspot of biodiversity and play a relevant ecological role in the preservation of biodiversity by providing carbon regulation, protection and nursery areas for several marine species. For this reason, the European Union Habitat Directive included them among priority habitats to be preserved. Although their ecological role is well established, connectivity patterns are still poorly investigated, representing a limit in conservation planning. The present study pioneers a novel approach for the analysis of connectivity in marine bioconstructor species, which often lack suitable genetic markers, by taking advantage of next‐generation sequencing techniques. We assess the geographical patterns of genomic variation of the sunset cup coral Leptopsammia pruvoti Lacaze‐Duthiers, 1897, an ahermatypic, non‐zooxanthellate and solitary scleractinian coral species common in coralligenous habitats and distributed across the Mediterranean Sea.

Location

The Italian coastline (Western and Central Mediterranean).

Methods

We applied the restriction site‐associated 2b‐RAD approach to genotype over 1,000 high‐quality and filtered single nucleotide polymorphisms in 10 population samples.

Results

The results revealed the existence of a strongly supported genetic structure, with highly significant pairwise FST values between all the population samples, including those collected about 5 km apart from each other. Moreover, genomic data indicate that the strongest barriers to gene flow are between the western (Ligurian–Tyrrhenian Sea) and the eastern side (Adriatic Sea) of the Italian peninsula.

Main conclusions

The strong differentiation found in L. pruvoti is similar to that found in other species of marine bioconstructors investigated in this area, but it strongly contrasts with the small differences found in many fish and invertebrates at the same geographical scale. All in one, our results highlight the importance of assessing connectivity in species belonging to coralligenous habitats as, due to their limited dispersal ability, they might require specific spatial conservation measures.
Evidence of large‐scale range shift in the distribution of a Palaearctic migrant in Africa
Authors: Howes Caroline , Symes Craig T. , Byholm Patrik
Published: April 2019

Aim

Long‐distance Palaearctic migrant birds are declining at a faster rate than short‐distance migrant or resident species. This is often attributed to changes on their non‐breeding grounds and along their migratory routes. The European honey buzzard (Pernis apivorus) is a scarce migrant in southern Africa that is declining globally. This study assessed the distribution and abundance of honey buzzards in southern Africa over the past four decades and compared it to trends in the East African population to examine possible drivers of population expansion in southern Africa.

Location

Southern and East Africa.

Methods

European honey buzzard reporting data were collected from a variety of sources including citizen science databases (1983–2017). In addition, records of all other southern African vagrants (including ten other regularly occurring species) were gathered to account for changes in birdwatching effort in the subregion. To assess the effect of forest loss on honey buzzard abundance, rolling correlations were performed using forest cover in East Africa and number of honey buzzard records in both subregions.

Results

European honey buzzard records in southern Africa have increased over five times more than other regularly occurring vagrant species and almost 40 times more than honey buzzard in Tanzania, where the population has remained stable. Loss of forested area in East Africa was correlated with an increase in European honey buzzard records in southern Africa.

Main conclusions

We suggest that the European honey buzzard shift in wintering range may be driven by a decline in suitable habitat further north in Africa amongst other possible reasons. This effect may have been amplified by an increase in appropriate habitat across southern Africa brought about by anthropogenic changes to vegetation such as increased tree cover in urban areas. This study further highlights the importance of using African distributional data banks to understand the effects of global change on Palaearctic migrant bird species.
The effect of sex and menopause on carotid intima‐media thickness and pulse wave velocity in morbid obesity
Authors: van Mil Stefanie R. , Biter L. Ulas , van de Geijn Gert Jan M. , Birnie Erwin , Dunkelgrun Martin , Ijzermans Jan N. M. , van der Meulen Noelle , Mannaerts Guido H. H. , Castro Cabezas Manuel
Published: April 2019

Background

Women are relatively protected from cardiovascular disease compared with men. Since morbid obesity is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the current study investigated whether the association between sex and cardiovascular risk factors and outcomes can be demonstrated in subjects suffering from morbid obesity.

Materials and methods

Two hundred subjects enrolled in a study on cardiovascular risk factors in morbid obesity underwent extensive laboratory screening, carotid intima‐media thickness (cIMT) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) measurements. Gender differences were analysed using univariate and multivariable linear regression models. In addition, the effect of menopause on cIMT and PWV was analysed. Results of these models were reported as B coefficients with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The group consisted of 52 men and 148 women, with a mean age of 41 (±11.8) years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 42.7 (±5.2) kg/m2. Both, cIMT and PWV were significantly higher in men than in women, although the difference in cIMT disappeared after adjustment for covariables such as waist circumference, age, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and mean arterial pressure. PWV was associated with sex after adjustments for covariables in morbidly obese patients. Postmenopausal women had significantly increased cIMT and PWV when compared with premenopausal women.

Conclusion

Sex differences in PWV persist in subjects suffering from morbid obesity. However, no difference was found in cIMT between morbidly obese men and women after adjustment for classic cardiovascular risk factors. Premenopausal morbidly obese women are protected for cardiovascular disease when compared with postmenopausal morbidly obese women.
Clinical and molecular features of patients with prefibrotic primary myelofibrosis previously diagnosed as having essential thrombocythemia in Japan
Authors: Edahiro Yoko , Araki Marito , Inano Tadaaki , Ito Masafumi , Morishita Soji , Misawa Kyohei , Fukuda Yasutaka , Imai Misa , Ohsaka Akimichi , Komatsu Norio
Published: April 2019

Objective

Prefibrotic/early primary myelofibrosis (pre‐PMF) and essential thrombocythemia (ET) exhibited different features of bone marrow; however, this is not always easy to judge objectively, making pathologists’ distinction often suboptimal. In the WHO 2008 criteria, pre‐PMF was not defined as a subgroup of PMF; therefore, affected patients were at a higher risk of misdiagnosis with ET. In this study, we examined the prevalence of pre‐PMF patients among those previously diagnosed with ET in Japan.

Method

We reviewed bone marrow specimens and clinical and molecular parameters of patients who were previously diagnosed with ET by the WHO 2008 criteria.

Results

Among 107 ET patients, 13 patients were redefined as having pre‐PMF. Pre‐PMF patients exhibited a higher frequency of MPL mutation and increased platelet counts compared to true ET patients. Molecular analysis revealed the frequencies of high‐risk molecular mutations, such as ASXL1, EZH2, and SRSF2, were significantly increased in pre‐PMF patients than those in true ET patients.

Conclusion

These results demonstrated the value of reexamining clinical records for patients diagnosed with ET by the WHO 2008 criteria and emphasized that adequate examinations of patients’ bone marrow are crucial for an accurate diagnosis of pre‐PMF and ET.
Why do nocturnal grasshoppers and katydids “salute” to flash photography?
Authors: TAN Ming Kai
Published: April 2019

Nocturnal animals can be sensitive to powerful light from the environment. Anthropogenically induced perturbation to natural light regimes, including ecological light pollution and flash photography, can have wide‐reaching implications on the ecology and behavior. Ecological ramifications of strong lights were traditionally focused on vertebrates although there is now more focus on invertebrates. Nonetheless, there are still unanswered questions on visual ecology and evolution, particularly on individual‐level effects and of tropical species. Specifically, how invertebrate individuals react to strong light is generally undocumented. Based on opportunistic surveys around Southeast Asia, orthopterans, spotted using concentrated torchlight and exposed to sudden strong light intensity during flash macrophotography, were observed to screen themselves by positioning their foreleg over the dorsum of the compound eye. This resembled the orthopteran “saluting” to the camera. These observations provided empirical evidence of how high intensity light can unsettle orthopterans and other insects and further ecological and evolutionary hypotheses and questions can be raised to understand the effect of light pollution.
The internet balancing formula
Authors: Susi Mart
Published: April 2019

The Internet Balancing Formula (IBF) is a mathematical instrument to increase the rational and transparent aspects of balancing conflicting human rights online. It is based on the relative weight and intensity of conflicting rights. The numerical value of these rights is arrived at by applying mathematical scales to various input elements. This formula is easy to use and could be applied globally by private online stakeholders. Robert Alexy has entered into debate with Susi, pointing out similarities and differences between his Weight Formula and the IBF, and advancing the concreteness thesis. Alexy views the Weight Formula as general and abstract, whereas the IBF is specific and particular. Both Alexy and Susi are of the opinion that such formula is highly needed to respond to the theoretical and practical uncertainties and divergent practices of online stakeholders. Susi replies to Alexy's critique in a separate article.
The role of the microbiome in scalp hair follicle biology and disease
Authors: Polak‐Witka Katarzyna , Rudnicka Lidia , Blume‐Peytavi Ulrike , Vogt Annika
Published: April 2019

The skin surface microbiome and its role in skin diseases have received increasing attention over the past years. Beyond, there is evidence for a continuous exchange with the cutaneous immune system in healthy skin, where hair follicles (HFs) provide unique anatomical niches. Especially, scalp HFs form large tubular invaginations, which extend deeply into the skin and harbour a variety of microorganisms. The distinct immunology of HFs with enhanced immune cell trafficking in superficial compartments in juxtaposition to immune‐privileged sites crucial for hair follicle cycling and regeneration makes this organ a highly susceptible structure. Depending on composition and penetration depth, microbiota may cause typical infections, but may also contribute to pro‐inflammatory environment in chronic inflammatory scalp diseases. Involvement in hair cycle regulation and immune cell maturation has been postulated. Herein, we review recent insights in hair follicle microbiome, immunology and penetration research and discuss clinical implications for scalp health and disease.
Update on protease‐activated receptor 2 in cutaneous barrier, differentiation, tumorigenesis and pigmentation, and its role in related dermatologic diseases
Authors: Henehan Mason , De Benedetto Anna
Published: April 2019

Protease‐activated receptor 2 (PAR2) is a transmembrane receptor expressed by multiple tissues, including skin, with rapidly expanding knowledge regarding its roles. In the skin, PAR2 has extensively documented effects in promoting Th2 inflammation and pruritus; and its role in atopic dermatitis continues to be thoroughly studied. Numerous new investigations have shown a more complex range of activities potentially related to dermatologic diseases. Goal of this review is to outline emerging effects of PAR2 activation in the skin other than those related to immunologic and pruritic functions. Specifically, this work seeks to summarize current knowledge (and gaps) of PAR2 as a regulator of epidermal barrier, keratinocyte differentiation, cutaneous tumorigenesis and pigmentation. Additional focus will be placed on possible involvement in dermatologic disease and emergence as a therapeutic target.
Environmental variables that ameliorate extinction learning deficits in the 129S1/SvlmJ mouse strain
Authors: Cazares Victor A. , Rodriguez Genesis , Parent Rachel , Ouillette Lara , Glanowska Katarzyna M. , Moore Shannon J. , Murphy Geoffrey G.
Published: April 2019

Fear conditioning is an associative learning process by which organisms learn to avoid environmental stimuli that are predictive of aversive outcomes. Fear extinction learning is a process by which avoidance of fear‐conditioned stimuli is attenuated when the environmental stimuli is no longer predictive of the aversive outcome. Aberrant fear conditioning and extinction learning are key elements in the development of several anxiety disorders. The 129S1 inbred strain of mice is used as an animal model for maladaptive fear learning because this strain has been shown to generalize fear to other nonaversive stimuli and is less capable of extinguishing fear responses relative to other mouse strains, such as the C57BL/6. Here we report new environmental manipulations that enhance fear and extinction learning, including the ability to discriminate between an aversively paired tone and a neutral tone, in both the 129S1 and C57BL/6 strains of mice. Specifically, we show that discontinuous (“pipped”) tone stimuli significantly enhance within‐session extinction learning and the discrimination between neutral and aversively paired stimuli in both strains. Furthermore, we find that extinction training in novel contexts significantly enhances the consolidation and recall of extinction learning for both strains. Cumulatively, these results underscore how environmental changes can be leveraged to ameliorate maladaptive learning in animal models and may advance cognitive and behavioral therapeutic strategies.
Giving as a total social phenomenon: Towards a human geography of reciprocity
Authors: Parsons Laurie
Published: April 2019

This paper explores how small group sharing practices contribute to wider community hierarchies. Using a combination of qualitative, quantitative and network data, the paper shows how small group reciprocal practices overlap to generate key nodes within community scale networks, creating hierarchies and information inequalities in each site. Thus, the paper aims to draw closer conceptual linkages between close knit, “bonding” relationships, livelihoods and community hierarchy by emphasising how reciprocal risk mitigation practices function as an intermediary process between climate‐dependent livelihoods and power relations within community‐scale networks. By applying this broader, mixed methods interpretation of gift giving and reciprocity to an area usually interpreted with a single scalar and methodological approach, the paper makes a case for greater focus on the structural dimensions of giving and reciprocity in geography.
Enhancer role of a native metabolite, O‐acetyl‐ADP‐ribose, on the Saccharomyces cerevisiae chromatin epigenetic gene silencing
Authors: Wang Sue‐Hong , Tung Shu‐Yun , Su Kuan‐Chung , Shen Hsiao‐Hsuian , Hong Jia‐Yang , Tsai Ming‐Shiun , Liou Gunn‐Guang
Published: April 2019

To study the epigenetic gene silencing, yeast is an excellent model organism. Sir proteins are required for the formation of silent heterochromatin. Sir2 couples histone deacetylation and NAD hydrolysis to generate an endogenous epigenetic metabolic small molecule, O‐acetyl‐ADP‐ribose (AAR). AAR is involved in the conformational change of SIR complexes, modulates the formation of SIR–nucleosome preheterochromatin and contributes to the spreading of SIR complexes along the chromatin fiber to form extended silent heterochromatin regions. Here, we show that AAR is capable of enhancing the chromatin silencing effect under either an extra exogenous AAR or a defect AAR metabolic enzyme situation, but decreasing the chromatin silencing effect under a defect AAR synthetic enzyme state. Our results provide an evidence of biological function importance of AAR. It is indicated that AAR does not only function in vitro but also play a role in vivo to increase the effect of heterochromatin epigenetic gene silencing. However, further investigations of AAR are warranted to expand our knowledge of epigenetics and associated small molecules.
Regulators of T‐cell fate: Integration of cell migration, differentiation and function
Authors: Groom Joanna R.
Published: April 2019

A fundamental question in immunology is how cells decide between distinct T helper, effector or memory differentiation fates. These decisions are paramount to overcome infection and establish long‐lasting protection. The impact of cell location for the determination of T‐cell fate decisions is an emerging field. This review will discuss our current understanding of the migration path that T cells follow, within draining lymph nodes, to steer differentiation down distinct paths of either effector or memory fates. In particular, the regulation of migration and cellular encounters mediated by the chemokine receptor CXCR3 and its ligands will be discussed. The combination of increased antigen density and unique cellular partners play a central role in facilitating the site‐specific differentiation of effector T cells, within the interfollicular regions of draining lymph nodes. Recent advances have applied this knowledge to optimize vaccine design to target antigen to lymph nodes. Increased understanding of the regulation of CXCR3 ligands and how T cells integrate multiple chemokine cues will help further progress in this field and allow additional applications to direct cell differentiation outside the lymph node, to enhance memory residency in peripheral tissues and effector anti‐tumor responses.
Chemokines and other mediators in the development and functional organization of lymph nodes
Authors: Eckert Nadine , Permanyer Marc , Yu Kai , Werth Kathrin , Förster Reinhold
Published: April 2019

Secondary lymphoid organs like lymph nodes (LNs) are the main inductive sites for adaptive immune responses. Lymphocytes are constantly entering LNs, scanning the environment for their cognate antigen and get replenished by incoming cells after a certain period of time. As only a minor percentage of lymphocytes recognizes cognate antigen, this mechanism of permanent recirculation ensures fast and effective immune responses when necessary. Thus, homing, positioning, and activation as well as egress require precise regulation within LNs. In this review we discuss the mediators, including chemokines, cytokines, growth factors, and others that are involved in the formation of the LN anlage and subsequent functional organization of LNs. We highlight very recent findings in the fields of LN development, steady‐state migration in LNs, and the intranodal processes during an adaptive immune response.
Secrets and lyase: Control of sphingosine 1‐phosphate distribution
Authors: Dixit Dhaval , Okuniewska Martyna , Schwab Susan R.
Published: April 2019

The signaling lipid sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P) plays key roles in many physiological processes. In the immune system, S1P's best‐described function is to draw cells out of tissues into circulation. Here, we will review models of S1P distribution in the thymus, lymph nodes, spleen, and nonlymphoid tissues. These models have been challenging to construct, because of the lack of tools to map lipid gradients. Nonetheless, evidence to date suggests that S1P distribution is exquisitely tightly controlled, and that concentrations of signaling‐available S1P cannot be predicted by standard rules of thumb. The fine regulation of S1P gradients may explain how S1P can simultaneously direct multiple cell movements both between tissues and circulation and within tissues. It may also make it feasible to develop drugs that enable spatially specific modulation of S1P signaling.
Thermoelectric properties of W1−xNbxSe2−ySy polycrystalline compounds
Authors: Yakovleva Galina E. , Romanenko Anatoly I. , Ledneva Alexandra Yu. , Belyavin Viktor A. , Kuznetsov Vitalii A. , Berdinsky Alexandr S. , Burkov Alexandr T. , Konstantinov Petr P. , Novikov Sergey V. , Han Mi‐Kyung , Kim Sung‐Jin , Fedorov Vladimir E.
Published: April 2019

We investigate the thermoelectric properties of bulk polycrystalline samples of WSe2‐based compounds with partial substitutions in the cationic (W) and the anionic (Se) sublattices in the temperature range from 4.2 to 650 K. The substitution of W for Nb leads to a significant increase in the charge carrier concentration, however, deteriorates the charge carrier mobility. In contrast, the substitution of selenium for sulfur increases the charge carrier mobility, the thermal conductivity, and the Seebeck coefficient but conductivity changes non‐monotonical. We show that the addition of sulfur in anionic sublattice affects the grain sizes in the polycrystalline material. Using substitutions in the anionic and cationic sublattices, we find the optimal ratio of the elements for better thermoelectric efficiency. The W0.98Nb0.02Se1.7S0.3 sample showed the best value of the figure of merit ZT = 0.26 (T = 650 K).
Levels of resilience and delivery of HIV care in response to urban violence and crime
Authors: Cooper Diane , Green Gill , Tembo Doreen , Christie Sarah
Published: April 2019

Aims

To understand the impact of urban violence and crime on HIV care delivery.

Background

Urban violence and crime can put pressure on the healthcare system and on nursing staff. Whilst there is research about the impact this has at the individual level, there is less research that places this in the context of the overall social eco‐system.

Design

A qualitative design using inductive thematic analysis.

Methods

Between July 2016 ‐ February 2017, we conducted in‐depth interviews with 10 nurses working in two neighbourhoods with high levels of violence in Cape Town, South Africa.

Results

The effects of crime and violence were evident at multiple levels resulting in participants feeling “safe and unsafe” in a context where people view crime as endemic. Resilience emerged as a key concept in the findings. Resilience was apparent at individual, community, and organizational levels and enabled continued delivery of HIV care.

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate the potential role of resilience in the social eco‐health system required to sustain delivery of HIV care in the midst of urban violence and gangsterism.

Impact

This study examined the impact of and response to urban violence on HIV care delivery. The findings indicate that resilience manifests at all levels of the social eco‐system. Understanding the mechanisms employed to cope with endemic violence helps to address these challenges in the study setting, but also has a much wider application to other areas with endemic urban violence and crime.
A randomized controlled trial on the blood pressure–lowering effect of amlodipine and nifedipine‐GITS in sustained hypertension
Authors: Huang Qi‐Fang , Sheng Chang‐Sheng , Li Yan , Dou Yu , Zheng Mei‐Sheng , Zhu Zhi‐Ming , Wang Ji‐Guang ,   the Amlodipine Morning Blood Pressure Surge Study (ARMORS) Investigators
Published: April 2019

In a multicenter, randomized trial, we investigated whether the long half‐time dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker amlodipine was more efficacious than the gastrointestinal therapeutic system (GITS) formulation of nifedipine in lowering ambulatory blood pressure (BP) in sustained hypertension (clinic systolic/diastolic BP 140‐179/90‐109 mm Hg and 24‐hour systolic/diastolic BP ≥ 130/80 mm Hg). Eligible patients were randomly assigned to amlodipine 5‐10 mg/day or nifedipine‐GITS 30‐60 mg/day. Ambulatory BP monitoring was performed for 24 hours at baseline and 4‐week treatment and for 48 hours at 8‐week treatment with a dose of medication missed on the second day. After 8‐week treatment, BP was similarly reduced in the amlodipine (n = 257) and nifedipine‐GITS groups (n = 248) for both clinic and ambulatory (24‐hour systolic/diastolic BP 10.3/6.5 vs 10.9/6.3 mm Hg, P ≥ 0.24) measurements. However, after missing a dose of medication, ambulatory BP reductions were greater in the amlodipine than nifedipine‐GITS group, with a significant (P ≤ 0.04) between‐group difference in 24‐hour (–1.2 mm Hg) and daytime diastolic BP (–1.5 mm Hg). In conclusion, amlodipine and nifedipine‐GITS were efficacious in reducing 24‐hour BP. When a dose of medication was missed, amlodipine became more efficacious than nifedipine‐GITS.
Development and psychometric testing of an inventory to measure patient‐centred care in dietetic practice – dietitian version
Authors: Sladdin I. , Gillespie B.M. , Ball L. , Chaboyer W.
Published: April 2019

Background

The lack of a valid instrument to measure patient‐centred care (PCC) in dietetic practice makes it challenging to evaluate how patient‐centred dietitians are. The present study aimed to develop and psychometrically test a dietitian‐reported inventory to measure PCC in dietetic practice.

Methods

The inventory was compiled based on a literature review of existing validated scales that measured the dimensions of PCC. Next, the inventory was distributed as a cross‐sectional survey to 180 Australian Accredited Practicing Dietitians who worked in primary care. Exploratory factor analysis was performed using principal factor analysis with Promax rotation. Cronbach's alpha (criteria ≥0.80), inter‐item correlations and corrected item‐total correlations (criteria 0.30–0.70) were computed to evaluate the internal consistency of each scale.

Results

Five factors were extracted accounting for 56.9% of the variance. Most variables had strong loadings on only one factor. Factors were labelled as: shared decision‐making; holistic and individualised care; patient–dietitian communication; knowing the patient; and caring patient–dietitian relationships. Cronbach's alpha was 0.94 for the total inventory and ranged from 0.73 to 0.91 for the individual factors. Inter‐item correlations and corrected item‐total correlations mostly fell in the desired range.

Conclusions

The present study offers a preliminary, conceptually grounded dietitian‐reported inventory, which is the first instrument developed and tested to measure PCC in dietetic practice. These findings illustrate the underlying factor structure of the inventory and support the reliability of the scales. With further testing, this inventory may provide useful to clinicians and researchers working to better understand and improve dietetic practice.
Longitudinal alterations in nutrient intake and food pattern in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer during anti‐neoplastic treatment: a cohort study
Authors: Tobberup R. , Holst M. , Carus A. , Jensen N. A. , Falkmer U. G. , Rasmussen H. H.
Published: April 2019

Background

Unintentional weight loss is frequently observed in cancer patients. Nutritional therapy is essential, and dietary counselling is the first step. The present study aimed to explore the nutrient intake and food patterns in weight‐stable and weight‐losing patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) during anti‐neoplastic treatment.

Methods

Patients with NSCLC (n = 62) were observed during first‐line systemic anti‐neoplastic treatment. Body weight and dietary intake were assessed on the first and second cycle, and after completing three cycles of treatment. Longitudinal changes were analysed in three groups: weight stable, weight losers and mixed weight.

Results

Nutrient intake did not change during treatment in weight stable, although weight losers significantly increased the relative protein intake. Weight stable maintained the food pattern during treatment apart from a decreased consumption of oral nutritional support (ONS). At baseline, weight losers were characterised by pretreatment weight loss, high consumption of ONS, as well as low consumption of grains and animal products. During treatment, weight losers increased the consumption of protein, fatty foods and ONS but decreased the consumption of sweets and alcohol.

Conclusions

Large heterogeneity in nutrient and food intake was observed in NSCLC patients during anti‐neoplastic treatment. Weight losers and weight stable had a similar nutrient intake although protein intake increased in weight losers. Grains and animal products were lower and ONS higher in weight losers compared to weight stable during treatment. Weight losers further increased the consumption of ONS and fatty foods, while the consumption of sweets and alcohol decreased during treatment.
Disconnecting bones within the jaw‐otic network modules underlies mammalian middle ear evolution
Authors: Navarro‐Díaz Aitor , Esteve‐Altava Borja , Rasskin‐Gutman Diego
Published: April 2019

Abstract

The origin of the mammalian middle ear ossicles from the craniomandibular articulation of their synapsid ancestors is a key event in the evolution of vertebrates. The richness of the fossil record and the multitude of developmental studies have provided a stepwise reconstruction of this evolutionary innovation, highlighting the homology between the quadrate, articular, pre‐articular and angular bones of early synapsids with the incus, malleus, gonial and ectotympanic bones of derived mammals, respectively. There are several aspects involved in this functional exaptation: (i) an increase of the masticatory musculature; (ii) the separation of the quadrate bone from the cranium; and (iii) the disconnection of the post‐dentary bones from the dentary. Here, we compared the jaw‐otic complex for 43 synapsid taxa using anatomical network analysis, showing that the disconnection of mandibular bones was a key step in the mammalian middle ear evolution, changing the skull anatomical modularity concomitant to the acquisition of new functions. Furthermore, our analysis allows the identification of three types of anatomical modules evolving through five evolutionary stages during the anatomical transformation of the jawbones into middle ear bones, with the ossification and degradation of Meckel's cartilage in mammals as the key ontogenetic event leading the change of anatomical modularity.
Characteristics of midluteal phase uterine artery hemodynamics in patients with recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: Yang Wen , Wu Ze , Yu Ming , Peng Xuenan , Lu Wei , Feng Wen , Kang Xiaomin
Published: April 2019

Aim

To study the association in resistance to uterine artery blood flow and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and find its potential influencing factors.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in 870 RPL and 237 non‐RPL patients visiting to the Clinic from January 2014 to February 2018. All participants underwent comprehensive examinations and were scanned by transvaginal Doppler ultrasonography during the midluteal phase to measure the pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI) and systolic/diastolic ratio (S/D) values of the left and right main uterine arteries. P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The mean PI, RI and S/D values for uterine arteries were significantly higher in RPL patients than in non‐RPL patients (P < 0.001). When subjects were grouped according to the different etiologies of RPL, significant higher indices of uterine arteries were found in RPL patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (P < 0.001), autoimmune diseases (P < 0.001), endocrinological abnormalities (P < 0.05), thrombophilia (P < 0.001), uterine anomalies (P < 0.01) and unexplained RPL (P < 0.001). No differences were found between patients with chromosomal anomalies and uterine arteries blood flow (P > 0.05). In RPL patients, mean PI, mean RI and mean S/D values shows no difference among groups (P > 0.05). The Similar results were observed in age and number of spontaneous abortion (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Impaired uterine artery blood perfusion may be an underlying pathology to RPL, and it can be used as an independent risk factor for pregnancy failure.