bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns and drivers of leaf‐litter ant diversity along a tropical elevational gradient in Mexico
Authors: Pérez‐Toledo Gibrán Renoy , Valenzuela‐González Jorge E. , Moreno Claudia E. , Villalobos Fabricio , Silva Rogerio R.
Published: August 2021

Aim

Given their high environmental variation over relatively short distances, mountains represent ideal systems for evaluating potential factors shaping diversity gradients. Despite a long‐standing interest in ecological gradients, ant diversity patterns and their related mechanisms occurring on mountains are still not well understood. Here, we (i) describe species diversity patterns (α and β) of leaf‐litter ants along the eastern slope of Cofre de Perote in Veracruz, Mexico; and (ii) evaluate climatic and spatial factors in determining these patterns.

Location

Veracruz, Mexico.

Taxon

Leaf‐litter ants.

Methods

We sampled 320 m2 of leaf litter spread across eight equally spaced sites from sea level to 3500 m of elevation. We used regression models to predict α‐diversity patterns with climatic (temperature and precipitation) and spatial (geometric constraints) variables. We also assessed, through multiple regression based on distance matrices (MRM), the relative importance of habitat filtering and dispersal limitations for shaping total dissimilarity (βsor), turnover (βsim) and nestedness (βnes).

Results

A hump‐shaped pattern was observed in the α‐diversity. This pattern is best explained by the temperature gradient. β‐diversity showed a nonlinear pattern along the elevational gradient with total dissimilarity and turnover components better explained by habitat filtering (i.e. temperature distances). Turnover had higher contribution to total dissimilarity rather than the nestedness component.

Main conclusions

The significance effect of temperature on both α‐ and β‐diversity patterns reinforces its widespread importance in shaping litter ant diversity patterns across elevational gradients. The hump‐shaped pattern in species richness is probably the result of harsh abiotic conditions at the base and the top of the mountain combined with biotic attrition in lowland sites. The niche specialization of ant species in their optimal thermal zones may explain total dissimilarity and ant species replacement along the studied gradient. Taken all together, these results suggest a high relevance of temperature‐driven mechanisms in the origin and maintenance of the biodiversity of such insects and probably another ectothermic taxa.
One of the least disturbed marine coastal ecosystems on Earth: Spatial and temporal persistence of Darwin’s sub‐Antarctic giant kelp forests
Authors: Mora‐Soto Alejandra , Capsey Austin , Friedlander Alan M. , Palacios Mauricio , Brewin Paul E. , Golding Neil , Dayton Paul , Van Tussenbroek Brigitta , Montiel Américo , Goodell Whitney , Velasco‐Charpentier Catalina , Hart Tom , Macaya Erasmo C. , Pérez‐Matus Alejandro , Macias‐Fauria Marc
Published: August 2021

Aim

Marine habitats and their dynamics are difficult to systematically monitor, particularly those in remote locations. This is the case with the sub‐Antarctic ecosystem of the giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera, which was already noted by Charles Darwin in his accounts on the Voyage of the Beagle and recorded on the nautical charts made during that expedition. We combined these and other nautical charts from the 19th and early 20th centuries with surveys conducted in the 1970s and 1980s and satellite detection algorithms from 1984 to 2019, to analyse kelp distribution through time and the factors that correlate with it.

Location

Marine ecoregions of Channels and Fjords of Southern Chile, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), and the island of South Georgia.

Taxon

Macrocystis pyrifera.

Methods

We characterised 309 giant kelp forests by their coastal geospatial attributes. Statistically significant variables were included in a conditional inference tree to predict kelp forest size. Sea surface temperature (SST) records were analysed to confirm temperature ranges over the last four decades. Nautical charts, historical surveys, aerial photogrammetry, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) surveys and satellite imagery were overlaid to assess spatial distribution of kelp forest canopies, spanning the period 1829–2020.

Results

Considering the extensive natural and human caused changes over the last two centuries, this diverse kelp ecosystem is remarkably persistent. We found that the ocean currents and wave exposure, combined with the geomorphological settings of the coastline are the most critical factors predicting the extent of the kelp forests.

Main conclusions

We have described the long‐term ecological persistence of the kelp forests in this vastly under‐studied region that offers a conceptual biogeographical model supporting the global importance proposed by Charles Darwin 200 years ago (Darwin, 1845). In the current context of global change, the need for conservation of this persistent and well‐preserved marine ecosystem has never been more important.
Impact of repeating somatic cues on the depth of experiencing for withdrawers and pursuers in emotionally focused couple therapy
Authors: Kailanko Sari , Wiebe Stephanie A. , Tasca Giorgio A. , Laitila Aarno A.
Published: August 2021

Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, an experiential modality, views emotion central to therapeutic change. In this exploratory study, we examined therapists' repetition of somatically focused interventions (therapist verbalizing somatic cues, such as facial expressions) and their impact on clients' emotional experiencing in‐session. We also assessed difference for withdrawing versus pursuing partners. The sample included 13 EFT therapists who worked with one couple each for a single session. From transcripts we coded therapists' repetition of somatically focused interventions and clients' depth of experiencing pre‐and post‐intervention. Multilevel modeling demonstrated that a higher number of repetitions of somatically focused interventions predicted greater increase in depth of experiencing, unlike length of time spent repeating interventions. Somatically focused interventions resulted in greater increase in depth of experiencing for withdrawing as compared to pursuing partners. The results of this exploratory study suggest that such interventions may be a specific technique of EFT therapists that enhances emotional experiencing especially among withdrawing partners.
Correlative imaging using super‐resolution fluorescence microscopy and soft X‐ray tomography at cryogenic temperatures provides a new way to assess virosome solutions for vaccine development
Authors: Okolo Chidinma A. , Jadhav Archana , Phillips Patrick , Dumoux Maud , McMurray Amanda A. , Joshi Vishwas D. , Pizzey Claire , Harkiolaki Maria
Published: August 2021

Active virosomes (AVs) are derivatives of viruses, broadly similar to ‘parent’ pathogens, with an outer envelope that contains a bespoke genome coding for four to five viral proteins capable of eliciting an antigenic response. AVs are essentially novel vaccine formulations that present on their surface selected viral proteins as antigens. Once administered, they elicit an initial ‘anti‐viral’ immune response. AVs are also internalised by host cells where their cargo viral genes are used to express viral antigen(s) intracellularly. These can then be transported to the host cell surface resulting in a second wave of antigen exposure and a more potent immuno‐stimulation. A new 3D correlative microscopy approach is used here to provide a robust analytical method for characterisation of Zika‐ and Chikungunya‐derivatised AV populations including vesicle size distribution and variations in antigen loading. Manufactured batches were compared to assess the extent and nature of batch‐to‐batch variations. We also show preliminary results that verify antigen expression on the surface of host cells. We present here a reliable and efficient high‐resolution 3D imaging regime that allows the evaluation of the microstructure and biochemistry of novel vaccine formulations such as AVs.
The ultrastructure of cartilage tissue and its swelling response in relation to matrix health
Authors: Brown Emma Te Tūmanako , Simons Joni M. L. J. W. , Thambyah Ashvin
Published: August 2021

This multi‐length scale anatomical study explores the influence of mild cartilage structural degeneration on the tissue swelling response. While the swelling response of cartilage has been studied extensively, this is the first study to reveal and correlate tissue microstructure and ultrastructure, with the swelling induced cartilage tissue strains. Cartilage sample strips (n = 30) were obtained from the distal‐lateral quadrant of thirty mildly degenerate bovine patellae and, following excision from the bone, the cartilage strips were allowed to swell freely for 2 h in solutions of physiological saline and distilled water successively. The swelling response of this group of samples were compared with that of healthy cartilage, with (n = 20) and without the surface layer (n = 20). The subsequent curling response of cartilage showed that in healthy tissue it was highly variable, and with the surface removed some samples curved in the opposite direction, while in the mildly degenerate tissue group, virtually all tissue strips curved in a consistent upward manner. A significant difference in strain was observed between healthy samples with surface layer removed and mildly degenerate samples, illustrating how excision of the surface zone from pristine cartilage is insufficient to model the swelling response of tissue which has undergone natural degenerative changes. On average, total tissue thickness increased from 940 µm (healthy) to 1079 µm (mildly degenerate), however, looking at the zonal strata, surface and transition zone thicknesses both decreased while deep zone thickness increased from healthy to mildly degenerate tissue. Morphologically, changes to the surface zone integrity were correlated with a diminished surface layer which, at the ultrastructural scale, correlated with a decreased fibrillar density. Similarly, fibrosity of the general matrix visible at the microscale was associated with a loss of later interconnectivity resulting in large, aggregated fibril bundles. The microstructural and ultrastructural investigation revealed that the key differences influencing the tissue swelling strain response was (1) the thickness and extent of disruption to the surface layer and (2) the amount of fibrillar network destructuring, highlighting the importance of the collagen and tissue matrix structure in restraining cartilage swelling.
Wild versus lab house mice: Effects of age, diet, and genetics on molar geometry and topography
Authors: Savriama Yoland , Romestaing Caroline , Clair Angéline , Averty Laetita , Ulmann Julie , Ledevin Ronan , Renaud Sabrina
Published: August 2021

Molar morphology is shaped by phylogenetic history and adaptive processes related to food processing. Topographic parameters of the occlusal surface, such as sharpness and relief, can be especially informative regarding diet preferences of a species. The occlusal surface can however be deeply modified by wear throughout an animal's life, potentially obliterating other signals. Age being difficult to assess in wild populations, especially small rodents, experimental studies of wear through age in laboratory populations may constitute a powerful way to assess its impact on molar geometry and topography, and to validate descriptors of molar morphology that could mitigate this issue. Molar morphology was therefore quantified using 3D geometric morphometrics and topographic estimates in four groups of house mice: wild‐trapped mice, lab‐bred offspring of these wild mice, typical laboratory mice, and their hybrids. Three descriptors of the molar morphology were considered: the surface of the whole molar row, the surface of the first upper molar, and a truncated template of the first upper molar mimicking advanced wear. Increasing wear with age was demonstrated in the different groups, with a more pronounced effect in the wild‐trapped population. The geometry of the molar row is not only modified by wear, but also by the relative position of the late developing molars on the jaw due to loading during mastication. As a consequence, the alignment of the molars is modified in wild mice, showing a qualitative difference between wild animals and their lab‐bred offspring. Results obtained from the lab should thus be transferred with caution to the interpretation of differences in wild populations. Topographic estimates computed for the first upper molar seems to provide more stable parameters than those based on the whole molar row, because issues related to non‐planar occlusal surface along the molar row are discarded. The truncated template was proven efficient in discarding the wear effect to focus on genetic differences, allowing an efficient characterization of the hybridization signature between wild and lab mice. Dominance of the wild phenotype for the first molar shape supports that the lab strain evolved in a context of relaxation of the selective pressures related to nutrition.
Symmetrical drug‐related intertriginous and flexural exanthema/baboon syndrome induced by traditional Chinese medicine
Authors: Liu Jing , Li Lin‐feng
Published: August 2021

Background

Symmetrical drug‐related intertriginous and flexural exanthema (SDRIFE) refers to an uncommon cutaneous adverse reaction that symmetrically involves the buttock and intertriginous areas after systemic exposure to the offending drug and is previously known as baboon syndrome. SDRIFE related with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has not been reported.

Objective

We presented a case of SDRIFE /baboon syndrome induced by TCM, Xi‐Huang capsule.

Methods

A 57‐years‐old man presented with macular erythematous rash mainly on his intergluteal, inguinal, axillary, popliteal regions for a duration of 5 days. The lesions appeared a day after an oral Chinese patent medicine Xi‐Huang capsule for arthralgia. Drug eruption was diagnosed. The rash disappeared completely within a week with immediate discontinuation of Xi‐Huang capsule and a short term of systemic therapy with glucocorticosteroids. Patch testing was performed on the patient 1 month after complete resolution. He was patch tested with Xi‐Huang capsule (5% and 10% in petroleum) using Finn Chambers on Scanpor tape and T.R.U.E. test system. Five heathy volunteers were also patch tested with the same Xi‐Huang capsule.

Results

Patch testing to 20 common contact allergens including nickel and fragrance were negative. TCM patch test was positive. No positive results were found in five volunteers. Months later, the patient relapsed after an oral herbal Chinese medicine challenge for arthralgia. To avoid the rash recurrence, he stopped taking any Chinese herbal medicine and had complete resolution of disease.

Conclusion

The Chinese patent drugs for external and oral have unique advantages and have been widely used in many diseases. It is important that dermatologists monitor for clinically significant manifestations of TCM, such as baboon syndrome. Patch testing could help make a definitive diagnosis.
A randomized, controlled, split‐face study of topical timolol maleate 0.5% eye drops for the treatment of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea
Authors: Wei Danfeng , Hamblin Michael R. , Wen Xiang
Published: August 2021

Background

Centrofacial erythema associated with telangiectasis is the most common presentation of rosacea, known as erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR). However, successful management of these symptoms remains challenging.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical timolol maleate eye drops 0.5% for ETR.

Methods

In this randomized, single‐center, single‐blind, placebo‐controlled split‐face study, 16 patients with mild‐to‐moderate ETR who presented at West China Hospital between January 2019 to September 2020 were randomized to receive either topical timolol maleate eye drops 0.5% to one side of their face daily for 28 days and normal saline to the other side of the face. Patients were assessed with both the Clinician Erythema Assessment (CEA) and Patient Self‐Assessment (PSA) at the 28‐day follow‐up appointment. Subjective assessment was performed by asking participants to grade their sensation of warmth and burning.

Results

The sides treated with timolol demonstrated a significant improvement in both the CEA and PSA at the 28‐day assessment. Patients reported a significant difference in warmth and burning sensations. The only adverse reaction was worsened redness on both sides of the face at Day 1 in one patient.

Conclusions

In this small study, the application of topical timolol maleate was safe and effective for the treatment of ETR.
Evaluation of the evidence level for the use of radiofrequency in aesthetic treatments: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Oliveira Paggiaro André , Pinheiro Rafael , Soares Kaolanna , Fernandes Carvalho Viviane , Gemperli Rolf
Published: August 2021

Background

Radiofrequency (RF) is a non‐invasive or minimally invasive procedure with a low risk of complications. It has been employed for several aesthetic purposes.

Aim

This study aimed to conduct a systematic literature review on the use of RF for aesthetic applications and assess the level of accumulated evidence for each condition.

Methods

Using the MEDLINE/PubMed and EMBASE databases, we searched for articles published from 2009 to 2019 describing the use of RF treatment for aesthetic purposes.

Results

Our search approach identified 25 randomized clinical trials investigating the efficacy of RF in the following clinical situations: body contour improvement, facial rejuvenation, acne scar treatment, alopecia, and rosacea. There were problems with the quality of the studies, especially regarding selection, performance, and detection bias.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that RF treatment is potentially promising in all of the evaluated clinical situations; however, we were not able to identify a level of evidence that justifies its use over other therapeutic options currently available on the market.
The combined effect of CO2 laser, topical diclofenac 3%, and imiquimod 5% in treating high‐risk basal cell carcinoma
Authors: El‐Khalawany Mohamed , Saudi Wael M. , Ahmed Eman , Mosbeh Alsadat , Sameh Ahmed , Rageh Mahmoud A.
Published: August 2021

Background

Some basal cell carcinoma (BCC) patients are considered as a high risk regarding the site, size, histopathological variant, or recurrence. High‐risk BCC is a challenging therapeutic problem due to the trial to balance between complete surgical excision from one side and tissue preservation from the other side.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of combining ablative CO2 laser, imiquimod 5%, and diclofenac 3% as a therapeutic regimen in high‐risk and inoperable BCC.

Patients/Methods

The study was conducted on 14 patients that were assessed clinically and pathologically then categorized regarding the site, size, histopathology, and fitness for surgery as high‐risk inoperable BCC. They received an ablative session of CO2 laser, followed by application of diclofenac sodium 3% gel once daily for 5 days and imiquimod 5% cream for another 2 days.

Results

The study included 11 males and 3 females. Nine lesions were located on the scalp, 4 on the face, and one lesion on the trunk. All lesions were of large size >5 cm in diameter. Histopathology showed 4 patterns: nodular type in 8 patients, infiltrating type in 3 patients, metatypical type in 2 patients, and micronodular type in one patient. At the end of the treatment period, 9 patients showed significant (moderate to marked) improvement while 5 patients showed weak (poor to mild) response. Significant improvement was more observed in nodular type. Relapse was more observed during the 5th to 6th months with 2 patients showed no relapse.

Conclusion

This combined regimen is a good alternative therapeutic modality in high‐risk inoperable BCC especially the nodular pathologic pattern.
A split‐face clinical trial of conventional red‐light photodynamic therapy versus daylight photodynamic therapy for acne vulgaris
Authors: Slutsky‐Bank Evgenia , Artzi Ofir , Sprecher Eli , Koren Amir
Published: August 2021

Background

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is considered an effective treatment for acne vulgaris. A significant drawback is pain during illumination. Daylight PDT (DL‐PDT) is more tolerable.

Objective

To assess and compare the efficacy and tolerability of DL‐PDT and C‐PDT for acne vulgaris through a prospective split‐face trial.

Methods and Materials

Fifteen patients underwent 4 treatment sessions at 3‐week intervals. First, 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) was applied to the entire face, after which the face was divided into 2 symmetrical areas: The right side was exposed to sunlight, and the left half was illuminated with red light. Photographs were obtained and evaluated by two dermatologists blinded to the study protocol. The patients reported side effects and downtime.

Results

There was a statistically significant decrease in the number and percent change of inflammatory and non‐inflammatory lesions on both sides. Adverse effects were markedly decreased on the DL‐PDT side compared to the C‐PDT side (p < .01). The average downtime duration was longer for the C‐PDT side (p < .001).

Conclusion

DL‐PDT was at least as effective as C‐PDT with fewer adverse effects and a shorter downtime duration.
What is the impact of corpus uterine invasion on oncologic outcomes in surgically treated cervical cancer?
Authors: Turan Taner , Kimyon Comert Gunsu , Boyraz Gokhan , Kilic Fatih , Cakir Caner , Kilic Cigdem , Yuksel Dilek , Unsal Mehmet , Karalok Alper , Turkmen Osman
Published: August 2021

Aim

To investigate the clinical significance of uterine corpus involvement in patients with surgically treated cervical cancer.

Methods

Patients (n = 354) with clinical early‐stage (stage IB1‐IIA2) cervical cancer who underwent radical hysterectomy and pelvic ± paraaortic lymphadenectomy were evaluated.

Results

Uterine invasion was detected in 60 (16.9%) patients. Patients with uterine invasion had a higher rate of pelvic lymph node metastasis than those without uterine invasion (35% vs 22.8%, p = 0.046). In multivariate analysis, no statistically significant difference was identified between patients with and without uterine invasion for pelvic lymph node metastasis (p = 0.953). Uterine invasion was identified as an independent risk factor for paraaortic lymph node metastasis in multivariate analysis (p = 0.012). The presence of pelvic lymph node metastasis was found to be another significant predictor of paraaortic lymph node involvement (p = 0.022). In addition, uterine invasion and lymph node metastasis were identified as an independent risk factors regarding poor prognosis in cancer‐specific survival (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.537; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.304–15.782; p = 0.017 and HR: 5.598; 95% CI, 1.581–19.823; p = 0.008, respectively).

Conclusions

Uterine invasion is an independent predictor of decreased survival and the presence of paraaortic lymph node metastasis in cervical cancer. The presence of the uterine invasion in cervical cancer should be considered as a poor prognostic factor in the decision of treatment.
Occlusal disharmony and chronic oro‐facial pain: from clinical observation to animal study
Authors: Cao Ye
Published: August 2021

Background

Occlusion can be viewed as the most sensitive susceptor of the central nervous system in the oro‐facial region. Its inalienable relationships to the temporomandibular joint, the muscles, the stomatognathic system and even the central nervous system are self‐evident. Almost all the dental treatments inevitably change the occlusion, potentially or actually, locally or extensively, and immediately or gradually.

Objective

The objective of this study was to present a narrative literature on occlusal disharmony and chronic oro‐facial pain.

Methods

Literature reviews focusing on clinical studies about the relationship between occlusal disharmony and myofascial oro‐facial pain, and related preclinical studies about the animal models of, as well as the peripheral and central mechanisms underlying this condition related to, occlusal disharmony were used as starting point and guidelines to describe the topics mentioned. A search of the PubMed database was performed mainly with the following search terms: “occlusion,” “occlusal interference,” “occlusal disharmony,” “occlusal change,” “oro‐facial pain” and “myofascial pain.”

Results

Relevant literature from the past 70 years until the present day was meticulously studied. The literature review together with three related characteristic clinical cases revealed an intimate association between occlusal disharmony and chronic oro‐facial pain, involving pathological changes, extending from the peripheral tissues to the central nervous system. The patients suffered from psychological distress, sleep disturbance and poor life quality.

Conclusion

Occlusal disharmony–related oro‐facial pain is a clinical problem that deserves attention, although there are no universally accepted clinical protocols. The existing literature provides some constructive suggestions, but further research is needed.
Occurrence and characterization of Bipolaris setariae associated with leaf blight of browntop millet (Brachiaria ramosa) in India
Authors: Ramesh Gutha Venkata , Palanna Kaki Boraiah , Vinaykumar Hargi Devappa , Arunkumar  , Koti Prasanna S. , Mahesha Hosapura Shekhararaju , Nagaraja Thathigowdara Enkeswarappa , Tonapi Vilas A. , Jeevan B.
Published: August 2021

A new leaf blight disease of browntop millet (Brachiaria ramosa) was noticed during rainy season (Kharif) 2018 at small millet experimental field, University of Agricultural Sciences, Gandhi Krishi Vignana Kendra (GKVK), Bengaluru, India. To assess the disease severity, an intensive roving survey was conducted during the 2019 cropping season. Based on the morphological characterization, the causal agent of leaf blight disease was identified as Bipolaris spp. Further sequencing and combined gene analysis of ITS (internal transcribed spacer of rDNA), GAPDH (glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate dehydrogenase) and LSU (large subunit) of all the nine isolates confirmed the pathogen as B. setariae. Pathogenicity study showed that all the isolates were pathogenic and caused leaf blight symptoms on browntop millet. The B. setariae isolates showed marked variability with respect to disease incidence on browntop millet (cv. Dundu korale) under artificial inoculation conditions. However, the host range was limited only to browntop millet and found non‐pathogenic to other six small millets examined. To our knowledge, this is the first completely described study on characterization of B. setariae causing leaf blight disease of browntop millet in India.
Psychological and work‐related factors associated with emotional exhaustion among healthcare professionals during the COVID‐19 outbreak in Italian hospitals
Authors: Fiabane Elena , Gabanelli Paola , La Rovere Maria Teresa , Tremoli Elena , Pistarini Caterina , Gorini Alessandra
Published: August 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has induced considerable psychological distress in healthcare workers, increasing the risk of burnout. This research aimed to investigate sociodemographic, work‐related, COVID‐19‐related, and psychological factors associated with emotional exhaustion (the core component of burnout) among healthcare professionals during the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic in Italy. A cross‐sectional study was conducted to assess risk (e.g. perceived risk and fear of contagion, stress) and protective factors (e.g. job satisfaction, resilience) for emotional exhaustion among 616 hospital staff. Women, nurses, shift workers, those with a permanent contract, and frontline workers reported significantly higher levels of emotional exhaustion compared to others. Significant risk factors predicting emotional exhaustion were prolonged use of personal protective equipment, increased work pressure, lack of support, and prolonged working hours; psychologically protective factors were resilience and job satisfaction, while perceived stress was found to be a significant psychological risk factor. Organizational interventions should focus on these factors to prevent the onset of burnout.
Oral mucosal lesions in pregnant women: A population‐based study
Authors: Duarte da Silva Karine , Vargas‐Ferreira Fabiana , Dâmaso Bertoldi Andréa , Celso Lopes Fernandes de Barros Fernando , Fernando Demarco Flávio , Britto Correa Marcos , Beatriz Chaves Tarquinio Sandra
Published: August 2021

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions (OML) and oral self‐examination and their associated factors among pregnant women from the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort Study, Brazil.

Methods

Pregnant women who would deliver babies in 2015 were included in the antenatal study. Data related to demographic, socio‐economic and behavioural conditions were collected using questionnaires. Participants were also clinically assessed for oral health outcomes. The outcomes were the presence of OMLs and oral self‐examination. Size, location, time of onset and symptomatology of the lesions were collected. Descriptive and bivariate analysis, and Poisson regression were performed. p‐Value <0.05 was set to indicate statistical significance.

Results

Data from 2481 pregnant women were analysed. Four hundred and nine (16.5%) had at least one OML. The most prevalent lesions were exostosis (80/16.6%), coated tongue (70/14.5%) and benign oral brownish pigmentation (68/14.1%). Non‐white skin colour was associated with a higher prevalence of OMLs (PR 1.3; 95% CI 1.1–1.6), while daily use of dental floss was positively associated with the prevalence of oral self‐examination (PR 1.4; 95% CI 1.2; 1.5).

Conclusions

Almost 20% of pregnant women presented OML, which were more prevalent in non‐white individuals. Women with better oral care were more likely to perform oral self‐examination.
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour of the oral and maxillofacial region—A systematic review
Authors: Schuch Lauren Frenzel , Kirschnick Laura Borges , de Arruda José Alcides Almeida , Klein Isadora Peres , Silveira Felipe Martins , Vasconcelos Ana Carolina Uchoa , Santos‐Silva Alan Roger , Lopes Márcio Ajudarte , Carrard Vinicius Coelho , Vargas Pablo Agustin , Martins Marco Antonio Trevizani , Wagner Vivian Petersen , Martins Manoela Domingues
Published: August 2021

To integrate the available data published on malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours (MPNST) of the oral and maxillofacial region. Searches in Embase, PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus were conducted for the identification of case reports/case series in English language. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Outcomes were evaluated by Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier methods. A total of 306 articles were retrieved, 50 of which reporting 57 MPNST were included. The lesion showed a predilection for the mandible (n = 18/31.57%) of middle‐aged adults (~40.5 years) with a male/female ratio of 1.1:1. The individuals were mostly symptomatic with a mean evolution time of 9.6 months. Surgical removal plus adjuvant therapy (especially radiotherapy) was the main approach (51.86%). Recurrence was reported in 39.62% of cases. Nodal and distant metastases were identified in 28.26% and 26.66% of cases, respectively. The 2‐year cumulative survival rate was 55%. Independent predictors of poor survival were the presence of neurofibromatosis type 1 (p = 0.04) and distant metastases (p = 0.004). The diagnosis of MPNST is challenging due to the variety of its clinical and histopathological presentations. Local aggressiveness and the potential for metastases are common outcomes of this neoplasm.
Identification of competing endogenous RNA network in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Cui Xiao‐Feng , Zhang Si‐Lin , Wang Wei‐Ping , Huang Xiao‐Wu , Chen Xiang‐Jun
Published: August 2021

Objective

This study was conducted to investigate key long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) involved in competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network associated with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC).

Materials and Methods

Three mRNA datasets, two miRNA datasets, and one lncRNA dataset of LSCC were downloaded from GEO database. Following the identification of differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs), (microRNAs) miRNAs (DEmiRNAs), and lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) in LSCC compared with adjacent tissues, functional enrichment of DEmRNAs was performed. Then, construction of the ceRNA (DElncRNA‐DEmiRNA‐DEmRNA) regulatory network and functional analyses of all DEmRNAs in ceRNA regulatory network were conducted. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reactions (qRT‐PCR) were used to detect the expression levels of selected DEmRNAs, DEmiRNAs, and DElncRNAs.

Results

A total of 3449 DEmRNAs, 40 DEmiRNAs, and 100 DElncRNAs were identified in LSCC. The ceRNA networks, which contained 132 DElncRNA‐DEmiRNA pairs and 287 DEmiRNA‐DEmRNA pairs, involving 44 lncRNAs, 3 miRNAs, and 271 mRNAs, were obtained. DEmRNAs in ceRNA regulatory networks were significantly enriched in pathways in cancer, prostate cancer, and aldosterone‐regulated sodium reabsorption. Except for HCG22 and hsa‐miR‐1246, expressions of the others in the qRT‐PCR results played the same pattern with that in our integrated analysis, generally.

Conclusions

We concluded that HCG22/EGOT‐hsa‐miR‐1275‐FAM107A and HCG22/EGOT‐hsa‐miR‐1246‐Glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase 1 like interaction pairs may play a central role in LSCC.
MiR‐144/451a cluster synergistically modulates growth and metastasis of Oral Carcinoma
Authors: Manasa Vidyadharan Geetha , Thomas Shaji , Kannan Sankarareddiar
Published: August 2021

Objectives

MicroRNA (miRNA) clusters co‐transcribe and function in a coordinated fashion mediating synergistic or antagonistic regulatory effects. MiR‐144 and miR‐451a are deregulated in various cancers but the combined regulatory role of miR‐144/451a cluster in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains unexplored. In the present study, we studied the synergistic effect of miR‐144/451a cluster on oral cancer progression.

Materials and methods

miR‐144 and miR‐451a expression was explored in OSCC cell lines by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR). Proliferation, wound healing, migration and invasion, spheroid formation, and colony formation assays were performed after transfection with miR‐144‐3p, miR‐451a, miR‐144‐5p, and co‐expressed miR‐144/451a. Expression of putative target genes was analyzed using qRT‐PCR and Western blotting.

Results

miR‐144 and miR‐451a were downregulated in all cell lines. The cell viability and stemness of cancer cell lines were unaltered when treated with miRNA mimics. However, co‐expressed miR‐144/451a significantly reduced the migratory, invasive, and clonogenic potential of cells than individual miRNAs.

Conclusion

miR‐144/451a cluster functions as a tumor suppressor in OSCC by inhibiting cancer cell invasion, migration, and clonogenic potential.
The impaired unfolded protein‐premelanosome protein and transient receptor potential channels‐autophagy axes in apoptotic melanocytes in vitiligo
Authors: Xie Bo , Song Xiuzu
Published: August 2021

Vitiligo is an autoimmune skin disease, characterized by depigmentation and epidermal melanocytes loss. The specific mechanisms underlying vitiligo have not been fully understood. As a result, treating vitiligo is a dermatological challenge. Recently, much attention has been paid to the dysfunction and interaction of organelles under environmental stress. The impaired organelles could generate misfolded proteins, particularly accumulated toxic premelanosome protein (PMEL) amyloid oligomers, activating the autoimmune system and cause melanocyte damage. Unfolded protein response (UPR) dysfunction accelerates toxic PMEL accumulation. Herein, we presented a narrative review on UPR’s role in vitiligo, the misfolded PMEL‐induced attack of the autoimmune system under autophagy dysfunction caused by abnormal activation of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels and the background of UPR system defects in melanocytes. All of these mechanisms were integrated to form UPR/PMEL‐TRP channels/autophagy axis, providing a new understanding of vitiligo pathogenesis.
Theoretical Study on Storage and Release of Firefly Luciferin
Authors: Guo Ya‐Jie , Cui Cheng‐Xing , Liu Ya‐Jun
Published: August 2021

Among numerous bioluminescent organisms, firefly is the most studied one. Recent experiment proposed that sulfoluciferin (SLH2) may serve as a storage form of luciferin (LH2). In the present article, we employed density functional theory calculation to uncover the mechanism and detailed process of the storage and release reactions. Due to lack of available crystallographic structure of the related enzyme, the calculation was performed on a model system. For the storage reaction, possible amino acid residues were used for imitating the protein environment. For the release reaction, the dielectric constant of 3.0 was employed to simulate the polarity of the protein cavity. The computational results indicated that the reactions from LH2 to SLH2 and from SLH2 to LH2 are both exergonic, which favor the storage and release processes and coincide with the experimental observation. Basing on experimental and current theoretical study, we supplemented the stages of LH2 storage and release in the entire bioluminescent cycle of firefly. The current theoretical calculation could inspire the study on LH2 storage and release of other bioluminescent organisms.
The Aged Population and Social Spending in Latin America: Comparing the Demographic Functionalist Theories and Political Pressure Arguments
Authors: Beal Krause Amanda L.
Published: August 2021

This article compares cross‐national aging populations in Latin America to study the relationship between this population, regime type, and types of social expenditure. Much of the previous research addressed this relationship in industrialized countries, but those countries are predominantly democratic and have less variation in age demographics. I demonstrate that the effect of the aged population varies by regime type and type of expenditure. In general, democratic regimes with larger elderly populations spend more on social security and welfare. By and large, education policy is unaffected by the size of the elderly population regardless of regime type. These results suggest that the elderly population is most concerned with social security, which makes sense because these government expenditures directly affect them.

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Come Together, Right Now: Storylines and Social Identities in Coalition Building in a Local Policy Subsystem
Authors: Rychlik Jasmin , Hornung Johanna , Bandelow Nils C.
Published: August 2021

How do social identities contribute to the formation of coalitions in a policy subsystem? Social identities help to understand the bundling of resources and common strategies for action. Thus, we argue that identification with a group and across groups discursively results in the formulation of shared and competing storylines. As coalitions are characterized by some kind of sameness of their actors which results in shared storylines, we thereby postulate that the link between storylines and social identities provides added value to the explanation of coalition formation. We test whether shared storylines can be traced back to social identities in the different discursive periods of traffic development on a local level in Germany. A media analysis of 110 articles and 14 interviews shows that the assignment of certain group characteristics is discursively confirmed, renegotiated, or rejected. Social identities, therefore, matter for coalition formation.

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Loss of LaMATE impairs isoflavonoid release from cluster roots of phosphorus‐deficient white lupin
Authors: Zhou Yaping , Olt Philipp , Neuhäuser Benjamin , Moradtalab Narges , Bautista William , Uhde‐Stone Claudia , Neumann Günter , Ludewig Uwe
Published: August 2021

White lupin (Lupinus albus L.) forms brush‐like root structures called cluster roots under phosphorus‐deficient conditions. Clusters secrete citrate and other organic compounds to mobilize sparingly soluble soil phosphates. In the context of aluminum toxicity tolerance mechanisms in other species, citrate is released via a subgroup of MATE/DTX proteins (multidrug and toxic compound extrusion/detoxification). White lupin contains 56 MATE/DTX genes. Many of these are closely related to gene orthologs with known substrates in other species. LaMATE is a marker gene for functional, mature clusters and is, together with its close homolog LaMATE3, a candidate for the citrate release. Both were highest expressed in mature clusters and when expressed in oocytes, induced inward‐rectifying currents that were likely carried by endogenous channels. No citrate efflux was associated with LaMATE and LaMATE3 expression in oocytes. Furthermore, citrate secretion was largely unaffected in P‐deficient composite mutant plants with genome‐edited or RNAi‐silenced LaMATE in roots. Moderately lower concentrations of citrate and malate in the root tissue and consequently less organic acid anion secretion and lower malate in the xylem sap were identified. Interestingly, however, less genistein was consistently found in mutant exudates, opening the possibility that LaMATE is involved in isoflavonoid release.
Dentist–patient communication on dental anxiety using the social media: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sivrikaya Efe Can , Yilmaz Onur , Sivrikaya Pinar
Published: August 2021

The purpose of the present study was to assess the effects of dentist–patient communication via social media on dental anxiety and to determine the appropriate timing of such communications. In this randomized, double‐blinded and controlled trial, we used Instagram’s quick replies system to answer patients' questions to alleviate dental anxiety for patients undergoing impacted teeth extraction under local anesthesia. Patients were assigned randomly into four groups according to the timing of such communications: only after (group 1, n = 36), only before (group 2, n = 35), before and after the operation (group 3, n = 36), and a control group who received no communication on social media (group 4, n = 36). Dental anxiety was evaluated one week before (pre‐op) and after the operation (post‐op) using recognized assessment scales –the Spielberger’s State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory, Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The results showed that the post‐op values of group 4 had higher anxiety scores than the groups 2 and 3 according to VAS (p < 0.05). Within the groups, the anxiety levels showed a decreasing trend after surgery according to MDAS and VAS scores (p < 0.05). The results of this study suggest that communication with patients before the operation is sufficient to reduce their dental anxiety.
No pain, no gain? Associations of athletic participation with capability for suicide among college students
Authors: Dodd Dorian R. , Harris Katie , Allen Kala , Velkoff Elizabeth A. , Smith April R.
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Suicide is a leading cause of death among college students. In order to advance understanding of suicide risk factors in this population, the present study provides a theoretically grounded test of associations between experiences in sports and both facets of capability for suicide (i.e., fearlessness about death and pain tolerance). Secondarily, the present study aimed to explore possible distinctions between subjective and objective pain tolerance.

Methods

Undergraduate students (N = 153) completed the study at a single timepoint. A pressure algometer was used to measure objective pain tolerance, and self‐report questionnaires assessed subjective pain tolerance, fearlessness about death (FAD), sports participation, sports‐related injuries, level of contact in sport, and weight manipulation practices for sport.

Results

Athletes had greater capability for suicide (i.e., higher objective and subjective pain tolerance and greater FAD) relative to non‐athletes. Sports‐related injuries were positively associated with both FAD and subjective pain tolerance, and level of contact in sport was positively associated with FAD. Objective and subjective pain tolerance were moderately correlated.

Conclusions

Sports‐related injuries and level of physical contact in athletics are associated with the facets of capability for suicide among college student athletes. Discrepancies in results between subjective and objective pain tolerance suggest important distinctions between these constructs.
Cardiorespiratory fitness in children with overweight/obesity: Insights into the molecular mechanisms
Authors: Plaza‐Florido Abel , Altmäe Signe , Esteban Francisco J. , Löf Marie , Radom‐Aizik Shlomit , Ortega Francisco B.
Published: August 2021

Objectives

High cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) levels reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) during adulthood. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying the health benefits of high CRF levels at the early stage of life. This study aimed to analyze the whole‐blood transcriptome profile of fit children with overweight/obesity (OW/OB) compared to unfit children with OW/OB.

Design

27 children with OW/OB (10.14 ± 1.3 years, 59% boys) from the ActiveBrains project were evaluated. VO2peak was assessed using a gas analyzer, and participants were categorized into fit or unfit according to the CVD risk‐related cut‐points. Whole‐blood transcriptome profile (RNA sequencing) was analyzed. Differential gene expression analysis was performed using the limma R/Bioconductor software package (analyses adjusted by sex and maturational status), and pathways’ enrichment analysis was performed with DAVID. In addition, in silico validation data mining was performed using the PHENOPEDIA database.

Results

256 genes were differentially expressed in fit children with OW/OB compared to unfit children with OW/OB after adjusting by sex and maturational status (FDR < 0.05). Enriched pathway analysis identified gene pathways related to inflammation (eg, dopaminergic and GABAergic synapse pathways). Interestingly, in silico validation data mining detected a set of the differentially expressed genes to be related to CVD, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, inflammation, and asthma.

Conclusion

The distinct pattern of whole‐blood gene expression in fit children with OW/OB reveals genes and gene pathways that might play a role in reducing CVD risk factors later in life.