bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the efficacy of genetic shifting in control of mosquito‐borne diseases
Authors: Xia Siyang , Baskett Marissa L. , Powell Jeffrey R.
Published: April 2019

Many of the world's most prevalent diseases are transmitted by animal vectors such as dengue transmitted by mosquitoes. To reduce these vector‐borne diseases, a promising approach is “genetic shifting”: selective breeding of the vectors to be more resistant to pathogens and releasing them to the target populations to reduce their ability to transmit pathogens, that is, lower their vector competence. The efficacy of genetic shifting will depend on possible counterforces such as natural selection against low vector competence. To quantitatively evaluate the potential efficacy of genetic shifting, we developed a series of coupled genetic–demographic models that simulate the changes of vector competence during releases of individuals with low vector competence. We modeled vector competence using different genetic architectures, as a multilocus, one‐locus, or two‐locus trait. Using empirically determined estimates of model parameters, the model predicted a reduction of mean vector competence of at least three standard deviations after 20 releases, one release per generation, and 10% of the size of the target population released each time. Sensitivity analysis suggested that release efficacy depends mostly on the vector competence of the released population, release size, release frequency, and the survivorship of the released individuals, with duration of the release program less important. Natural processes such as density‐dependent survival and immigration from external populations also strongly influence release efficacy. Among different sex‐dependent release strategies, releasing blood‐fed females together with males resulted in the highest release efficacy, as these females mate in captivity and reproduce when released, thus contributing a greater proportion of low‐vector‐competence offspring. Conclusions were generally consistent across three models assuming different genetic architectures of vector competence, suggesting that genetic shifting could generally apply to various vector systems and does not require detailed knowledge of the number of loci contributing to vector competence.
Malassezia‐derived aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligands enhance the CCL20/Th17/soluble CD163 pathogenic axis in extra‐mammary Paget's disease
Authors: Sato Yota , Fujimura Taku , Tanita Kayo , Chunbing Lyu , Matsushita Shigeto , Fujisawa Yasuhiro , Otsuka Atsushi , Yamamoto Yuki , Hidaka Takanori , Aiba Setsuya
Published: April 2019

Malassezia yeast play a role in the pathogenesis of chronic dermatitis, especially in apocrine areas, by polarizing the local immunologic background to a Th2/Th17 state through aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)‐dependent pathways. Extra‐mammary Paget's disease (EMPD) is an adenocarcinoma of apocrine origin, and except for cases associated with Malassezia yeast and their metabolites, the lesions typically develop in areas not exposed to environmental material. The purpose of this study was to investigate (a) the immunomodulatory effects of Malassezia metabolites on normal human keratinocytes (NHKCs), focusing on interleukin (IL)‐17 and related cytokines/chemokines (IL‐23, IL‐36γ, CCL20), (b) the expression of these factors in lesion‐affected skin in EMPD and (c) the activation of tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) by these factors. Malassezia metabolites augmented the expression of cytochrome P450, family 1, subfamily A, polypeptide 1 (CYP1A1), CCL20 and IL‐36γ mRNA in NHKCs in vitro. In lesion‐affected skin of patients with EMPD, epidermal keratinocytes expressed CYP1A1 and CCL20. In addition, Paget cells expressed CCL20 and IL‐23. IL‐17–producing cells were distributed adjacent to Paget cells. Compared to healthy donors, patients with EMPD exhibited significantly increased serum levels of soluble (s)CD163, CXCL5, CXCL10 and CCL20. In addition, serum levels of sCD163 decreased significantly following tumor resection. Our study demonstrates a possible mechanism for the development of EMPD involving AhR‐mediated signalling by epidermal keratinocytes and RANKL‐induced recruitment of Th17 cells and TAMs.
Ambiguous Loss in Transnational Families’ Adolescents: An Exploratory Study in Ecuador
Authors: Jerves Elena , Rober Peter , Enzlin Paul , De Haene Lucia
Published: April 2019

In psychosocial migration literature, the perspective of ambiguous loss has been relevant to articulate personal and relational experiences in the context of transnational families and ongoing separation. Most studies have focused on adult members’ experiences of transnational families, but research exploring ambiguous loss in adolescents whose parents have migrated is still lacking. The present study aimed to explore adolescents’ lived experiences of parental migration. In a pilot explorative study, 14 adolescents with at least one parent who migrated were interviewed about their lived experiences of transnational parent‐child relationships and ongoing parent‐child separation. Data analysis identified four themes in participants’ accounts: practices of separation creating confusion; current relationship with migrant parents permeated by ambiguity; distrustful representations of migrant parents; and family and social dynamics reactivating the pain of loss. The findings reveal how in the context of parental migration, patterns of separation and ongoing relational processes, compounded by the uncertainty of reunification and an exclusionary social fabric, constitute core elements that shape adolescents’ lived experiences of parent‐child relationships characterized by ambiguity.
Neuroprotective effects of zafirlukast, piracetam and their combination on L‐Methionine‐induced vascular dementia in rats
Authors: Fayez Ahmed M. , Elnoby Ahmed S. , Bahnasawy Nada H. , Hassan Omar
Published: April 2019

Vascular dementia is considered a vascular cognitive impairment disease caused by neuronal degeneration in the brain. Several studies have supported the hypothesis that oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction are the main pathogenic factors in vascular dementia. This current study aims to determine the possible neuroprotective effects of zafirlukast, piracetam and the combination of piracetam and zafirlukast on L‐methionine‐induced vascular dementia in rats. Male Wistar albino rats were divided into five groups. Group I was the normal control, and group II received L‐methionine (1700 mg/kg, P.O.) for 32 days. The remaining groups received zafirlukast (20 mg/kg, P.O.), piracetam (600 mg/kg, P.O.) or their combination (zafirlukast 20 mg/kg + piracetam 600 mg/kg, P.O.) for 32 days after L‐methionine administration. Afterwards, the cognitive and memory performances of the rats were investigated using the novel object recognition (NOR) test; rats were then sacrificed for histopathological and biochemical analyses. L‐methionine‐induced vascular dementia altered rats’ behaviours and the brain contents of different neurotransmitters and acetylcholinesterase activity while increasing levels of oxidative stress and causing notable histopathological alterations in brain tissues. The treatment of vascular dementia with zafirlukast and the combination improved neurochemical, behavioural and histological alterations to a comparable level to those of piracetam. Thus, zafirlukast, piracetam and the combination of both drugs can be considered as potential therapeutic strategies for the treatment of vascular dementia induced by L‐methionine. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to explore the neuroprotective effects of zafirlukast and piracetam on L‐methionine‐induced vascular dementia.
Latitudinal variation in soil nematode communities under climate warming‐related range‐expanding and native plants
Authors: Wilschut Rutger A. , Geisen Stefan , Martens Henk , Kostenko Olga , de Hollander Mattias , ten Hooven Freddy C. , Weser Carolin , Snoek L. Basten , Bloem Janneke , Caković Danka , Čelik Tatjana , Koorem Kadri , Krigas Nikos , Manrubia Marta , Ramirez Kelly S. , Tsiafouli Maria A. , Vreš Branko , van der Putten Wim H.
Published: April 2019

Current climate change has led to latitudinal and altitudinal range expansions of numerous species. During such range expansions, plant species are expected to experience changes in interactions with other organisms, especially with belowground biota that have a limited dispersal capacity. Nematodes form a key component of the belowground food web as they include bacterivores, fungivores, omnivores and root herbivores. However, their community composition under climate change‐driven intracontinental range‐expanding plants has been studied almost exclusively under controlled conditions, whereas little is known about actual patterns in the field. Here, we use novel molecular sequencing techniques combined with morphological quantification in order to examine nematode communities in the rhizospheres of four range‐expanding and four congeneric native species along a 2,000 km latitudinal transect from South‐Eastern to North‐Western Europe. We tested the hypotheses that latitudinal shifts in nematode community composition are stronger in range‐expanding plant species than in congeneric natives and that in their new range, range‐expanding plant species accumulate fewest root‐feeding nematodes. Our results show latitudinal variation in nematode community composition of both range expanders and native plant species, while operational taxonomic unit richness remained the same across ranges. Therefore, range‐expanding plant species face different nematode communities at higher latitudes, but this is also the case for widespread native plant species. Only one of the four range‐expanding plant species showed a stronger shift in nematode community composition than its congeneric native and accumulated fewer root‐feeding nematodes in its new range. We conclude that variation in nematode community composition with increasing latitude occurs for both range‐expanding and native plant species and that some range‐expanding plant species may become released from root‐feeding nematodes in the new range.
An Exact Solution of the 2D Boussinesq Equation for the Three‐Point Method
Authors: Szymański Adam
Published: April 2019

Article impact statement: The closed‐form solution of the steady‐state 2D Boussinesq equation better approximates the water table than the three‐point method, when information is available on the recharge, the hydraulic conductivity and the base of the aquifer.
Identification and Explanation of a Change in the Groundwater Regime using Time Series Analysis
Authors: Obergfell Christophe , Bakker Mark , Maas Kees
Published: April 2019

Time series analysis is applied to identify and analyze a transition in the groundwater regime in the aquifer below the sand ridge of Salland in the Netherlands, where groundwater regime refers to the range of head variations throughout the seasons. Standard time series analysis revealed a discrepancy between modeled and observed heads in several piezometers indicating a possible change in the groundwater regime. A new time series modeling approach is developed to simulate the transition from the initial regime to the altered regime. The transition is modeled as a weighted sum of two responses, one representing the initial state of the system, the other representing the altered state. The inferred timing and magnitude of the change provided strong evidence that the transition was the result of significant dredging works that increased the river bed conductance of the main river draining the aquifer. The plausibility of this explanation is corroborated by an analytical model. This case study and the developed approach to identify a change in the groundwater regime are meant to stimulate a more systematic application of time series analysis to detect and understand changes in groundwater systems which may easily go unnoticed in groundwater flow modeling.
Analytical and Numerical Modeling of Solute Intrusion, Recovery, and Rebound in Fractured Bedrock
Authors: Nagare Ranjeet M. , Park Young‐Jin , Butterfield Trevor , Belenky Chad , Scyrup Sheldon
Published: April 2019

Contaminated groundwater in fractured bedrock can expose ecosystems to undesired levels of risk for extended periods due to prolonged back‐diffusion from rock matrix to permeable fractures. Therefore, it is key to characterize the diffusive mass loading (intrusion) of contaminants into the rock matrix for successful management of contaminated bedrock sites. Even the most detailed site characterization techniques often fail to delineate contamination in rock matrix. This study presents a set of analytical solutions to estimate diffusive mass intrusion into matrix blocks, it is recovered by pumping and concentration rebound when pumping ceases. The analytical models were validated by comparing the results with (1) numerical model results using the same model parameters and (2) observed chloride mass recovery, rebound concentration, and concentration in pumped groundwater at a highly fractured bedrock site in Alberta, Canada. It is also demonstrated that the analytical solutions can be used to estimate the total mass stored in the fractured bedrock prior to any remediation thereby providing insights into site contamination history. The predictive results of the analytical models clearly show that successful remediation by pumping depends largely on diffusive intrusion period. The results of initial mass from the analytical model was used to successfully calibrate a three‐dimensional discrete fracture network numerical model further highlighting the utility of the simple analytical solutions in supplementing the more detailed site numerical modeling. Overall, the study shows the utility of simple analytical methods to support long‐term management of a contaminated fractured bedrock site including site investigations and complex numerical modeling.
Photo‐sharing platforms key for characterising niche and distribution in poorly studied taxa
Authors: Jiménez‐Valverde Alberto , Peña‐Aguilera Pablo , Barve Vijay , Burguillo‐Madrid Lidia
Published: April 2019

The continuing advancement of new technologies is making available novel sources of occurrence data, such as photo‐sharing platforms. Using three Iberian Argiope spider species as models, this study aimed to compare the quality of three data sources – existing scientific literature, a biodiversity‐focused photo‐sharing citizen science project, and a photo‐sharing social network – and the results derived from niche and distribution analyses.

Data sources were compared in terms of sample size, spatial clustering, and coverage, degree of climatic niche completeness, and in their consistency in the characterisation of response curves. Possible biases towards big cities and protected natural areas were identified, and species distribution models were parameterised and compared.

Photo records provided the largest number of occurrences, whereas data from scientific literature showed the worst spatial coverage. Records from the citizen science project yielded the highest degree of niche completeness. All data sources showed some bias towards big cities and protected areas. Data from existing scientific literature yielded the worst range representations and, accordingly, the most different distribution models, whereas the models based on two photo‐vouchered sources were very similar.

Range and niche analyses using records from different sources may yield disparate results. Occurrence data from existing scientific literature may not be enough to develop robust niche analyses nor to characterise recent range changes of poorly studied taxa. Photo‐sharing platforms provide updated chorological information and have the potential to increase sample sizes dramatically, which is an important data property in distribution and niche modelling.
Influence of heat‐treatment protocols on mechanical behavior of lithium silicate dental ceramics
Authors: Alves Manuel Fellipe Rodrigues Pais , Simba Bruno Galvão , de Campos Leonardo Queiroz Bueno , Ferreira Iago , dos Santos Claudinei
Published: April 2019

In this work, three different commercial lithium silicate (LS) glass‐ceramics for computer aided design/computer aided machining systems, CeltraDuo‐Dentsply (LS‐C), E‐MaxCAD‐Ivoclar (LS‐E), and Suprinity‐Vita (LS‐S), were comparatively characterized. Following the protocols recommended by the manufacturers, the glass‐ceramics were heat‐treated under low vacuum and characterized by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, hardness, fracture toughness, Young's modulus, and flexural strength. Rietveld refinement indicated that the materials “as‐received” present mostly amorphous phase and Li2SiO3 as secondary crystalline phase in LS‐E and LS‐S specimens, while LS‐C specimens also present Li2Si2O5 and Li3PO4 as crystalline phases. All “as‐received” glass‐ceramics present hardness, fracture toughness, and Young's modulus of around 647‐678 HV, 1.15‐1.40 MPa.m1/2, and 82‐92 GPa, respectively. After heat treatment, the LS‐C and LS‐S specimens presented decreasing of amorphous phase associated to Li2SiO3 and Li2Si2O5 grains with low aspect ratio, while LS‐E indicates a reduction of amorphous phase and Li2Si2O5 elongated grains. Fracture toughness and Young's modulus increase about 10% due to the crystallization of residual amorphous phase for all materials. Moreover, crystallographic and microstructural characteristics are responsible for the higher flexural strength of LS‐E (327 MPa), regarding LS‐C and LS‐S. However, the glass‐ceramics LS‐E present lower Weibull modulus (m = 5.4) comparatively to LS‐C (m = 9) and LS‐S (m = 6).
Biochemical recurrence‐free conditional probability after radical prostatectomy: A dynamic prognosis
Authors: García‐Barreras Silvia , Sanchez‐Salas Rafael , Mejia‐Monasterio Carlos , Muttin Fabio , Secin Fernando , Dell'Oglio Paolo , Nunes‐Silva Igor , Srougi Victor , Barret Eric , Rozet François , Prapotnich Dominique , Cathelineau Xavier
Published: April 2019

Objective

To estimate the conditional biochemical recurrence‐free probability and to develop a predictive model according to the disease‐free interval for men with clinically localized prostate cancer treated with minimally invasive radical prostatectomy.

Methods

The study population consisted of 3576 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and 2619 men treated with robotic radical prostatectomy in the past 15 years at Institute Mutualiste Montsouris, Paris, France. Biochemical recurrence was defined as serum prostate‐specific antigen ≥0.2 ng/dL. Univariable and multivariable survival analyses were carried out to identify the prognostic factors for overall free‐of‐biochemical recurrence probability and conditional survival with respect to the years from surgery without recurrence. A detailed nomogram for the static and dynamic prognosis of biochemical recurrence was developed and internally validated.

Results

The median follow‐up period was 8.49 years (interquartile range 4.01–12.97), and 1148 (19%) patients experienced biochemical recurrence. Significant variables associated with biochemical recurrence in the multivariable model included preoperative prostate‐specific antigen, positive surgical margins, extracapsular extension, pathological Gleason ≥4 + 3 and laparoscopic surgery (all P < 0.001). Conditional survival probability decreased with increasing time without biochemical recurrence from surgery. When stratified by prognosis factors, the 5‐ and 10‐year conditional survival improved in all cases, especially in men with worse prognosis factors. The concordance index of the nomogram was 0.705.

Conclusions

Conditional survival provides relevant information on how prognosis evolves over time. The risk of recurrence decreases with increasing number of years without disease. An easy‐to‐use nomogram for conditional survival estimates can be useful for patient counseling and also to optimize postoperative follow‐up strategies.
Association between tumor contact surface area and parenchymal volume change in robot‐assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy carried out using the enucleation technique
Authors: Takagi Toshio , Yoshida Kazuhiko , Kondo Tsunenori , Kobayashi Hirohito , Iizuka Junpei , Okumi Masayoshi , Ishida Hideki , Tanabe Kazunari
Published: April 2019

Objective

To evaluate the change in the operated parenchymal volume during robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy limited to the enucleation technique, and to analyze the predictors of decrease in operated parenchymal volume, including the tumor contact surface area.

Methods

The study included 135 patients who underwent robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy for T1 renal tumors using the enucleation technique. Measurements of the parenchymal volume, tumor volume and contact surface area were obtained in the venous phase on enhanced computed tomography. All measurements, including volumetric and renal function analysis, were carried out <2 months before and 6 months after surgery.

Results

The mean age of included participants was 56 years, and the mean tumor size was 33 mm. The mean tumor volume was 26 cc, and the mean contact surface area was 22 cm2. In the complete cohort, the mean preoperative and postoperative normal parenchymal volumes of the operated kidney were 158 and 141 cc, respectively. The mean change in parenchymal volume of the operated kidney was −10%. In contrast, the mean change in global estimated glomerular filtration was just −4.0%. Univariate analysis showed that the RENAL nephrometry score, contact surface area, tumor volume and warm ischemia time were associated with the change in the operated kidney parenchymal volume. However, in the multivariate analysis, a large contact surface area was the only independent predictor of decreased operated parenchymal volume <10 cm3.

Conclusion

Contact surface area is a strong predictor of the decrease in the parenchymal volume in the operated kidney during robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy carried out using the enucleation technique for T1 renal tumors.
Wet oxidation behavior of SiC/(SiC‐ SiBCN)x composites prepared by CVI combined with PIOP process
Authors: Luan Xin'gang , Xu Xinming , Zou Yun , Wang Lei , Cheng Laifei , Riedel Ralf
Published: April 2019

Self‐healing capability in wet oxygen atmospheres is the key issue for long term service of SiC/SiC composites in aero‐engines. Polymer derived SiBCN ceramic (PDC SiBCN) was introduced into SiC fiber reinforced SiC as a self‐healing component to obtain SiC/(SiC‐SiBCN)x composites by a newly developed method, namely chemical vapor infiltration combined with polymer infiltration online pyrolysis (CVI + PIOP) process. The weight loss behavior and three‐point bending performance of the samples under different temperatures (1200, 1300 and 1400°C) and different wet oxygen partial pressures were tested up to 100 hours to demonstrate the oxidation behavior of the samples in wet oxygen environments. According to these tests, the antioxidant capacities of samples prepared from different preforms were compared. It has been found that the 2D plain weave samples with higher density have the best resistance to wet oxygen corrosion while the 2D plain weave samples have the worst resistance to wet oxidation and the antioxidant capacities of 2D satin weave samples is between them.
Failure of plasma sprayed nano‐zirconia‐based thermal barrier coatings exposed to molten CaO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2 deposits
Authors: Zhou Xin , Chen Tao , Yuan Jieyan , Deng Zhonghua , Zhang Hao , Jiang Jianing , Cao Xueqiang
Published: April 2019

Recently, nanostructured thermal barrier coatings have received considerable attention because of some superior properties in comparison with their conventional counterpart. In this study, nanostructured 8 wt% yttria‐stabilized zirconia (n‐YSZ) coatings were deposited by atmospheric plasma spraying, and the degradation behavior caused by molten calcium‐magnesium‐aluminon‐silicate (CMAS) attack was investigated. Results showed that the thermo‐chemical reaction product between CMAS and YSZ (both powders and coatings) is different with the change of CMAS content. At low CMAS concentration, a cubic phase is generated by the diffusion of Ca into YSZ grains. As compared to the conventional YSZ, less C‐ZrO2 is detected for n‐YSZ. When CMAS reaches a certain concentration (eg 15 mg/cm2), disruptive phase transformation from tetragonal to monoclinic will occur and the reaction is more readily for n‐YSZ. Two different chemical reaction mechanisms governing the CMAS content effect were proposed. It should be noted that the nanozone in the coatings plays an important role in the CMAS degradation process, which enhances CMAS infiltration rate and accelerates the chemical reaction, leading to a poor CMAS resistance of the nanostructured coating than that of the conventional counterpart.
Photocatalytic, piezocatalytic, and piezo‐photocatalytic effects in ferroelectric (Ba0.875Ca0.125)(Ti0.95Sn0.05)O3 ceramics
Authors: Qifeng Liu , Jingjun Ma , Sharma Moolchand , Vaish Rahul
Published: April 2019

Ba0.875Ca0.125Ti0.95Sn0.05O3 (BCT‐Sn) was examined for photocatalytic, piezocatalytic, and piezo‐photocatalytic effects. BCT‐Sn powder was poled through corona poling and it was found that poling induces significant impact on photocatalysis. This material was also able to degrade dye (Methylene blue) using poled powder under ultrasonication (piezocatalysis). There was a remarkable effect in dye degradation which is a clear indication of the importance of piezocatalytic behavior in catalytic reactions. Moreover, the piezo‐photocatalytic effect (piezocatalysis + photocatalysis) was also investigated. Results suggested an enormous scope of ferroelectric materials in the field of catalysis.
Interaction between beta‐3 adrenergic receptor genotype and environmental factors on periodontal progression
Authors: Yoshihara Akihiro , Kaneko Noboru , Nohno Kaname , Iwasaki Masanori
Published: April 2019

Objectives

The purpose of this longitudinal study was to evaluate the relationship between beta‐3 adrenergic receptor polymorphism and environmental factors such as smoking on periodontal disease by considering effect modification.

Materials and Methods

A total of 294 subjects who participated in all follow‐up surveys over the 6‐year study period were analysed. After dividing subjects into tertiles according to the number of years exposed to smoking, we conducted Poisson regression analysis to compare the incidence rate ratio (IRR) for periodontal disease events during the 6‐year study period with beta‐3 adrenergic receptor genotype (1: Arg allele carriers, 2: Arg allele non‐carriers) for each tertile adjusted for other four variables.

Results

The number of years exposed to smoking (mean ± standard deviation) for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd tertiles was 0 ± 0, 20.1 ± 9.1 and 45.3 ± 7.7 years, respectively. The IRRs ± SE were 0.89 ± 0.08 (p = 0.218) for the 1st tertile, 1.93 ± 0.36 (p < 0.001) for the 2nd tertile and 2.56 ± 0.23 (p < 0.001) for the 3rd tertile.

Conclusion

There was a clear dose–response relationship between beta‐3 adrenergic receptor genotype and periodontal disease progression based on the number of years exposed to smoking.
Free fatty acid receptors, G protein‐coupled receptor 120 and G protein‐coupled receptor 40, are essential for oil‐induced gastric inhibitory polypeptide secretion
Authors: Sankoda Akiko , Harada Norio , Kato Tomoko , Ikeguchi Eri , Iwasaki Kanako , Yamane Shunsuke , Murata Yuki , Hirasawa Akira , Inagaki Nobuya
Published: April 2019

Aims/Introduction

Incretin hormone glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide/gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) plays a key role in high‐fat diet‐induced obesity and insulin resistance. GIP is strongly secreted from enteroendocrine K cells by oil ingestion. G protein‐coupled receptor (GPR)120 and GPR40 are two major receptors for long chain fatty acids, and are expressed in enteroendocrine K cells. In the present study, we investigated the effect of the two receptors on oil‐induced GIP secretion using GPR120‐ and GPR40‐double knockout (DKO) mice.

Materials and Methods

Global knockout mice of GPR120 and GPR40 were crossbred to generate DKO mice. Oral glucose tolerance test and oral corn oil tolerance test were carried out. For analysis of the number of K cells and gene expression in K cells, DKO mice were crossbred with GIP‐green fluorescent protein knock‐in mice in which visualization and isolation of K cells can be achieved.

Results

Double knockout mice showed normal glucose‐induced GIP secretion, but no GIP secretion by oil. We then investigated the number of K cells and gene characteristics in K cells isolated from GIP‐green fluorescent protein knock‐in mice. Deficiency of both receptors did not affect the number of K cells in the small intestine or expression of GIP messenger ribonucleic acid in K cells. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the expression of the genes associated with lipid absorption or GIP secretion in K cells between wild‐type and DKO mice.

Conclusions

Oil‐induced GIP secretion is triggered by the two major fatty acid receptors, GPR120 and GPR40, without changing K‐cell number or K‐cell characteristics.
Evaluation of the fit of zirconia three‐unit fixed partial dentures fabricated by different impression techniques
Authors: Moustapha Ghassan , Azzam Khaled , AlShwaimi Emad , Silwadi Munir , Ferrari Marco , Salameh Ziad
Published: April 2019

Aim

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the marginal and internal fit of zirconium fixed partial denture using different impression techniques.

Methods

A Nissin Typodont model, including maxillary central incisor and canine with missing lateral incisor, was selected for the present study. Thirty zirconium frameworks were fabricated following three impression techniques (N = 10), conventional silicone impression (group C), scanned dental impression (group S), and Trios 3 (3Shape) intraoral scanner (group T). An extra‐fine milling strategy was applied.

Results

Group T had the smallest discrepancy compared to groups C (P = 0.006) and S (P = 0.052) at the marginal level, whereas it was larger at the incisal tip. Discrepancies in group T were smaller than group C (P = 0.004) when measured at the axial walls, and smaller than group S (P = 0.045) when measured at the chamfer area for the central teeth only. Samples in group T showed a greater percentage of equally extended restorations (52.5%), while other groups were mainly underextended (group C: 63.7%, group S: 68.8%).

Conclusion

Better adaptation was achieved with the intraoral scanner group, except at the incisal tip. Conventional and scanned impressions revealed a greater percentage of underextended restorations.
Osa‐miR167d facilitates infection of Magnaporthe oryzae in rice
Authors: Zhao Zhi‐Xue , Feng Qin , Cao Xiao‐Long , Zhu Yong , Wang He , Chandran Viswanathan , Fan Jing , Zhao Ji‐Qun , Pu Mei , Li Yan , Wang Wen‐Ming
Published: April 2019

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in rice response to Magnaporthe oryzae, the causative agent of rice blast disease. Studying the roles of rice miRNAs is of great significance for the disease control. Osa‐miR167d belongs to a conserved miRNA family targeting auxin responsive factor (ARF) genes that act in developmental and stress‐induced responses. Here, we show that Osa‐miR167d plays a negative role in rice immunity against M. oryzae by suppressing its target gene. The expression of Osa‐miR167d was significantly suppressed in a resistant accession at and after 24 h post inoculation (hpi), however, its expression was significantly increased at 24 hpi in the susceptible accession upon M. oryzae infection. Transgenic rice lines over‐expressing Osa‐miR167d were highly susceptible to multiple blast fungal strains. By contrast, transgenic lines expressing a target mimicry to block Osa‐miR167d enhanced resistance to rice blast disease. In addition, knocking out the target gene ARF12 led to hyper‐susceptibility to multiple blast fungal strains. Taken together, our results indicate that Osa‐miR167d negatively regulate rice immunity to facilitate the infection of M. oryzae by downregulating ARF12. Thus, Osa‐miR167d‐ARF12 regulatory module could be valuable in improvement of blast‐disease resistance.
Mitochondria‐coupled glucose phosphorylation develops after birth to modulate H2O2 release and calcium handling in rat brain
Authors: de‐Souza‐Ferreira Eduardo , Rios‐Neto Izac Miranda , Martins Eduarda Lopes , Galina Antonio
Published: April 2019

The adult brain is a high‐glucose and oxygen‐dependent organ, with an extremely organized network of cells and large energy‐consuming synapses. To reach this level of organization, early stages in development must include an efficient control of cellular events and regulation of intracellular signaling molecules and ions such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and calcium (Ca2+), but in cerebral tissue, these mechanisms of regulation are still poorly understood. Hexokinase (HK) is the first enzyme in the metabolism of glucose and, when bound to mitochondria (mtHK), it has been proposed to have a role in modulation of mitochondrial H2O2 generation and Ca2+ handling. Here, we have investigated how mtHK modulates these signals in the mitochondrial context during postnatal development of the mouse brain. Using high‐resolution respirometry, western blot analysis, spectrometry and resorufin, and Calcium Green fluorescence assays with brain mitochondria purified postnatally from day 1 to day 60, we demonstrate that brain HK increases its coupling to mitochondria and to oxidative phosphorylation to induce a cycle of ADP entry/ATP exit of the mitochondrial matrix that leads to efficient control over H2O2 generation and Ca2+ uptake during development until reaching plateau at day 21. This contrasts sharply with the antioxidant enzymes, which do not increase as mitochondrial H2O2 generation escalates. These results suggest that, as its use of glucose increases, the brain couples HK to mitochondria to improve glucose metabolism, redox balance and Ca2+ signaling during development, positioning mitochondria‐bound hexokinase as a hub for intracellular signaling control.

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The application of moist dressings in wound care for tracheostomy patients: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yue Meng , Lei Mengjie , Liu Ying , Gui Na
Published: April 2019

Aim

To evaluate the clinical application of moist wound dressings in wound care for patients with the tracheostomy.

Background

Tracheostomy patients may suffer from many complications. Moist dressings have been proposed to lower complication rates for patients with the tracheostomy.

Design

A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses (PRISMA) checklist‐guided meta‐analysis of randomised and controlled clinical trials.

Method

In this meta‐analysis, two reviewers independently searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI and Wanfang databases for controlled clinical trials (CCTs) comparing the use of moist dressings and gauze for tracheostomy patients. The reviewers screened studies according to the inclusion criteria and extracted data from published reports independently. The outcome of site infection and pressure ulcer incidence, the frequency of dressing changes and wound closing time were evaluated by random‐effects or fixed‐effects meta‐analysis.

Results

After the screening, ten studies including 1,220 participants were eligible for analysis. The result showed that the incidence of site infection and pressure ulcer was significantly reduced in the moist dressings group compared with the gauze group. Moist dressings were also associated with significant reductions in the frequency of dressing changes and wound closing time. These results were assessed as moderate‐ to low‐quality evidence.

Conclusion

Moist dressings seem to be beneficial to tracheostomy patients, giving a lower incidence of site infection and pressure ulcers as well as shorter wound closing times and lower dressing change frequency. More high‐quality trials are needed to support this finding.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings offer clinicians an assessment of and evidence for the efficacy of moist dressings, which may be a superior option for patients with a tracheotomy.
Impact of Intracranial Aneurysm Morphology and Rupture Status on the Particle Residence Time
Authors: Leemans E.L. , Cornelissen B.M.W. , Rosalini G. , Verbaan D. , Schneiders J.J. , van den Berg R. , Vandertop W.P. , van Bavel E.T. , Slump C.H. , Majoie C.B.L.M. , Marquering H.A.
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Aneurysm hemodynamics play an important role in aneurysm growth and subsequent rupture. Within the available hemodynamic characteristics, particle residence time (PRT) is relatively unexplored. However, some studies have shown that PRT is related to thrombus formation and inflammation. The goal of this study is to evaluate the association between PRT and aneurysm rupture and morphology.

METHODS

We determined the PRT for 113 aneurysms (61 unruptured, 53 ruptured) based on computational fluid dynamic models. Virtual particles were injected into the parent vessel and followed during multiple cardiac cycles. PRT was defined as the time needed for 99% of the particles that entered an aneurysm to leave the aneurysm. Subsequently, we evaluated the association between PRT, rupture, and morphology (aneurysm type, presence of blebs, or multiple lobulations).

RESULTS

PRT showed no significant difference between unruptured (1.1 seconds interquartile range [IQR .39‐2.0 seconds]) and ruptured aneurysms (1.2 seconds [IQR .47‐2.3 seconds]). PRT was influenced by aneurysm morphology. Longer PRTs were seen in bifurcation aneurysms (1.3 seconds [IQR .54‐2.4 seconds], P = .01) and aneurysms with blebs or multiple lobulations (1.92 seconds [IQR .94‐2.8 seconds], P < .001). Four of five partially thrombosed aneurysms had a long residence time (>1.9 seconds).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows an influence of aneurysm morphology on PRT. Nevertheless, it suggests that PRT cannot be used to differentiate unruptured and ruptured aneurysms.
Mixotrophic trade‐off under warming and UVR in a marine and a freshwater alga
Authors: González‐Olalla Juan Manuel , Medina‐Sánchez Juan Manuel , Carrillo Presentación
Published: April 2019

Mixotrophic protists combine phagotrophy and phototrophy within a single cell. Greater phagotrophic activity could reinforce the bypass of carbon (C) flux through the bacteria‐mixotroph link and thus lead to a more efficient transfer of C and other nutrients to the top of the trophic web. Determining how foreseeable changes in temperature and UVR affect mixotrophic trade‐offs in favor of one or the other nutritional strategy, along the mixotrophic gradient, is key to understanding the fate of carbon and mineral nutrients in the aquatic ecosystem. Our two main hypotheses were: (i) that increased warming and UVR will divert metabolism toward phagotrophy, and (ii) that the magnitude of this shift will vary according to the organism's position along the mixotrophic gradient. To test these hypotheses, we used two protists (Isochrysis galbana and Chromulina sp.) located in different positions on the mixotrophic gradient, subjecting them to the action of temperature and of UVR and their interaction. Our results showed that the joint action of these two factors increased the primary production:bacterivory ratio and stoichiometric values (N:P ratio) close to Redfield's ratio. Therefore, temperature and UVR shifted the metabolism of both organisms toward greater phototrophy regardless of the original position of the organism on the mixotrophic gradient. Weaker phagotrophic activity could cause a less efficient transfer of C to the top of trophic webs.
Leptothoe, a new genus of marine cyanobacteria (Synechococcales) and three new species associated with sponges from the Aegean Sea
Authors: Konstantinou Despoina , Voultsiadou Eleni , Panteris Emmanuel , Zervou Sevasti‐Kiriaki , Hiskia Anastasia , Gkelis Spyros
Published: April 2019

Cyanobacterial diversity associated with sponges remains underestimated, though it is of great scientific interest in order to understand the ecology and evolutionary history of the symbiotic relationships between the two groups. Of the filamentous cyanobacteria, the genus Leptolyngbya is the most frequently found in association with sponges as well as the largest and obviously polyphyletic group. In this study, five Leptolyngbya‐like sponge‐associated isolates were investigated using a combination of molecular, chemical, and morphological approach and revealed a novel marine genus herein designated Leptothoe gen. nov. In addition, three new species of Leptothoe, Le. sithoniana, Le. kymatousa, and Le. spongobia, are described based on a suite of distinct characters compared to other marine Leptolyngbyaceae species/strains. The three new species, hosted by four sponge species, showed different degrees of host specificity. Leptothoe sithoniana and Le. kymatousa hosted by the sponges Petrosia ficiformis and Chondrilla nucula, respectively, seem to be more specialized than Le. spongobia, which was hosted by the sponges Dysidea avara and Acanthella acuta. All three species contained nitrogen‐fixing genes and may contribute to the nitrogen budget of sponges. Leptothoe spongobia TAU‐MAC 1115 isolated from Acanthella acuta was shown to produce microcystin‐RR indicating that microcystin production among marine cyanobacteria could be more widespread than previously determined.
Oceanographic barriers, divergence, and admixture: Phylogeography and taxonomy of two putative subspecies of short‐finned pilot whale
Authors: Van Cise Amy M. , Baird Robin W. , Baker Charles Scott , Cerchio Salvatore , Claridge Diane , Fielding Russell , Hancock‐Hanser Brittany , Marrero Jacobo , Martien Karen K. , Mignucci‐Giannoni Antonio A. , Oleson Erin M. , Oremus Marc , Poole M. Michael , Rosel Patricia E. , Taylor Barbara L. , Morin Phillip A.
Published: April 2019

Genomic phylogeography plays an important role in describing evolutionary processes and their geographic, ecological, or cultural drivers. These drivers are often poorly understood in marine environments, which have fewer obvious barriers to mixing than terrestrial environments. Taxonomic uncertainty of some taxa (e.g., cetaceans), due to the difficulty in obtaining morphological data, can hamper our understanding of these processes. One such taxon, the short‐finned pilot whale, is recognized as a single global species but includes at least two distinct morphological forms described from stranding and drive hunting in Japan, the “Naisa” and “Shiho” forms. Using samples (n = 735) collected throughout their global range, we examine phylogeographic patterns of divergence by comparing mitogenomes and nuclear SNP loci. Our results suggest three types within the species: an Atlantic Ocean type, a western/central Pacific and Indian Ocean (Naisa) type, and an eastern Pacific Ocean and northern Japan (Shiho) type. mtDNA control region differentiation indicates these three types form two subspecies, separated by the East Pacific Barrier: Shiho short‐finned pilot whale, in the eastern Pacific Ocean and northern Japan, and Naisa short‐finned pilot whale, throughout the remainder of the species' distribution. Our data further indicate two diverging populations within the Naisa subspecies, in the Atlantic Ocean and western/central Pacific and Indian Oceans, separated by the Benguela Barrier off South Africa. This study reveals a process of divergence and speciation within a globally‐distributed, mobile marine predator, and indicates the importance of the East Pacific Barrier to this evolutionary process.
Specific amino acid substitutions in β strand S2 of FtsZ cause spiraling septation and impair assembly cooperativity in Streptomyces spp.
Authors: Sen Beer Chakra , Wasserstrom Sebastian , Findlay Kim , Söderholm Niklas , Sandblad Linda , von Wachenfeldt Claes , Flärdh Klas
Published: April 2019

Bacterial cell division is orchestrated by the Z ring, which is formed by single‐stranded treadmilling protofilaments of FtsZ. In Streptomyces, during sporulation, multiple Z rings are assembled and lead to formation of septa that divide a filamentous hyphal cell into tens of prespore compartments. We describe here mutant alleles of ftsZ in Streptomyces coelicolor and Streptomyces venezuelae that perturb cell division in such a way that constriction is initiated along irregular spiral‐shaped paths rather than as regular septa perpendicular to the cell length axis. This conspicuous phenotype is caused by amino acid substitutions F37I and F37R in β strand S2 of FtsZ. The F37I mutation leads, instead of regular Z rings, to formation of relatively stable spiral‐shaped FtsZ structures that are capable of initiating cell constriction. Further, we show that the F37 mutations affect the polymerization properties and impair the cooperativity of FtsZ assembly in vitro. The results suggest that specific residues in β strand S2 of FtsZ affect the conformational switch in FtsZ that underlies assembly cooperativity and enable treadmilling of protofilaments, and that these features are required for formation of regular Z rings. However, the data also indicate FtsZ‐directed cell constriction is not dependent on assembly cooperativity.
Knockout of apolipoprotein A‐I decreases parenchymal and vascular β‐amyloid pathology in the Tg2576 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Contu L. , Carare R. O. , Hawkes C. A.
Published: April 2019

Aims

Apolipoprotein A‐I (apoA‐I), the principal apolipoprotein associated with high‐density lipoproteins in the periphery, is also found at high concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid. Previous studies have reported either no impact or vascular‐specific effects of apoA‐I knockout (KO) on β‐amyloid (Aβ) pathology. However, the putative mechanism(s) by which apoA‐I may influence Aβ deposition is unknown.

Methods

We evaluated the effect of apoA‐I deletion on Aβ pathology, Aβ production and clearance from the brain in the Tg2576 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Results

Contrary to previous reports, deletion of the APOA1 gene significantly reduced concentrations of insoluble Aβ40 and Aβ42 and reduced plaque load in both the parenchyma and blood vessels of apoA‐I KO × Tg2576 mice compared to Tg2576 animals. This was not due to decreased Aβ production or alterations in Aβ species. Levels of soluble clusterin/apoJ were significantly higher in neurons of apoA‐I KO mice compared to both wildtype (WT) and apoA‐I KO × Tg2576 mice. In addition, clearance of Aβ along intramural periarterial drainage pathways was significantly higher in apoA‐I KO mice compared to WT animals.

Conclusion

These data suggest that deletion of apoA‐I is associated with increased clearance of Aβ and reduced parenchymal and vascular Aβ pathology in the Tg2576 model. These results suggest that peripheral dyslipidaemia can modulate the expression of apolipoproteins in the brain and may influence Aβ clearance and aggregation in AD.