bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased level of cathelicidin (LL‐37) in vitiligo: Possible pathway independent from vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism
Authors: Atazadeh Fatemeh , Fazeli Zahra , Vahidnezhad Hassan , Namazi Nastaran , Younespour Shima , Youssefian Leila , Abdollahimajd Fahimeh , Uitto Jouni
Published: September 2020

Vitiligo is a multifactorial skin disease with established role of genetics and autoimmunity in its pathogenesis. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms have been suggested to correlate with risk of vitiligo in some ethnic populations. On the other hand, cathelicidin, one of the innate immune system components, has a role in development of some chronic skin diseases and VDR regulates the expression of cathelicidin. We aimed to determine the plasma level of cathelicidin and its association with the VDR gene polymorphisms as well as plasma vitamin D level in patients with vitiligo. Ninety vitiligo patients and 90 non‐vitiligo controls participated in this study. Blood levels of 25(OH) vitamin D and cathelicidin were determined with ELISA. Genotyping for VDR polymorphisms (ApaI, TaqI, FokI and BsmI) was done with RFLP‐PCR method. Mean blood level of cathelicidin was significantly higher in vitiligo patients as compared to controls (P < .0001). Mean blood level of vitamin D was significantly lower in patients than controls (P = .01). Statistically significant differences were not observed for both genotype and allele frequencies of BsmI, ApaI and TaqI polymorphisms. There was a borderline increased risk of vitiligo in over‐dominant model of FokI polymorphism with OR = 1.8 and P = .051. Our findings was suggestive of the potential role of cathelicidin in the pathogenesis of vitiligo; however, future evaluations are needed to determine its precise mechanism. Genetic study of VDR gene polymorphism was suggestive of increased risk of vitiligo in association with a FokI polymorphism in Iranian population.
Intrapopulation variability in a functional trait: Susceptibility ofDaphniato limitation by dietary fatty acids
Authors: Ilić Maja , Cordellier Mathilde , Fink Patrick
Published: September 2020

Functional traits are measurable characteristics of an organism that have an impact on its fitness. Variation in functional traits between and among species has been suggested to represent the basis for competition and selection, thus allowing for evolution in natural populations.

In freshwater ecosystems, the availability of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), in particular ω3‐ and ω6‐PUFAs, determines the food quality of phytoplankton for the herbivorous zooplanktonDaphnia, an unselective filter feeder. The content of such essential PUFAs in the phytoplankton is thus a functional phytoplankton trait affecting the trophic transfer efficiency and dynamics at the pelagic plant–herbivore interface.

In turn, the susceptibility of consumers to become limited by the availability of essential PUFAs is a fitness‐determining trait ofDaphniagenotypes, and variability of this herbivore trait may thus affect the daphnids’ intrapopulation competition. To estimate the intrapopulation variation in susceptibility, we isolated clonal lines ofDaphnia longispinafrom a natural population and compared the strength of their limitation by dietary PUFA availability via standardised laboratory growth assays. We used a liposome supplementation technique to enrich a PUFA‐poor green alga with essential ω3‐ and ω6‐PUFAs and determined juvenile somatic growth rate of differentD. longispinagenotypes as a fitness proxy.

As expected,D. longispinagenotypes that coexisted in a natural population differed markedly in their specific patterns of susceptibility to dietary PUFA availability. On average, theD. longispinapopulation was more strongly susceptible to limitations in the availability of the ω6‐PUFA arachidonic acid (20:4ω6) than to limitations in the availability of ω3‐PUFAs α‐linolenic acid (18:3ω3) and eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5ω3).

The ability to cope with PUFA limitation is thus a crucial trait that can probably affect intraspecific competition andDaphniapopulation structure. Therefore, we suggest that such intrapopulation variation in susceptibility to absence of dietary PUFAs might be one of the driving forces of natural selection and local adaptation among freshwater zooplankton.
Intravascular albumin loss is strongly associated with plasma volume withdrawal in dialysis patients
Authors: Haider Thomas , Diaz‐Canestro Candela , Pentz Brandon , Montero David
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Low circulating albumin closely predicts mortality in end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. The cause(s) of hypoalbuminemia (hALB) in ESRD patients remains to be elucidated. The aim of the present study was to determine the role of plasma volume (PV) withdrawal in the reduction of total circulating albumin and essential blood solutes induced by hemodialysis (HD).

Methods

PV determined with high‐precision automated carbon monoxide‐rebreathing, total circulating as well as concentration of plasma albumin and electrolytes were assessed prior to and after 4‐hour HD in 10 ESRD patients.

Findings

Baseline PV ranged from 3.5 to 6.2 l. After HD, PV was decreased by 689 ± 566 mL (−16%) (P = 0.004). Total circulating albumin was largely reduced after HD (170.8 ± 35.1 vs. 146.1 ± 48.9 g, P = 0.008), while albumin concentration was unaltered. According to a strong linear relationship (r = 0.91, P < 0.001), one‐third of total circulating albumin is lost from the intravascular compartment for every liter of PV removed. Similar results were found regarding Na+ and Ca2+ electrolytes.

Discussion

Total circulating albumin, but not albumin concentration, is substantially reduced by HD in proportion to the amount of PV removed from the circulation. This study highlights the potential contributing role of PV withdrawal to hALB in ESRD patients.
Identifying Outcome Measures for Migraine Value‐Based Contracting Using the Delphi Method
Authors: Swart Elizabeth C. S. , Good Chester B. , Henderson Rochelle , Manolis Chronis , Yanta Claire , Parekh Natasha , Neilson Lynn M.
Published: September 2020

Objective

To identify meaningful migraine outcome measures among key stakeholders to inform value‐based contracts for migraine medications.

Background

Value‐based contracts linking medication payments to predefined performance metrics aim to promote value through aligned incentives and shared risk between manufacturers and payers. The emergence of new and expensive pharmaceuticals for migraine presents an opportunity for value‐based contract development. However, uncertainty remains around which outcomes are most meaningful to all migraine stakeholders.

Methods

This study utilized a Delphi survey to incorporate views from 82 stakeholders, including patients (n = 21), providers (n = 23), payers (n = 10), employers (n = 18), and pharmaceutical company representatives (n = 10). A list of 15 migraine‐related outcomes was created from a literature review and subject matter expert consultation. Stakeholders reported on the value of these outcomes through a 5‐point Likert scale and selection of their top 3 most meaningful outcomes. All participants except patients and employers also used a 5‐point Likert scale to rate the feasibility of collecting each outcome measure. Consensus was defined as ≥75% agreement on the importance and feasibility of an outcome (Likert scores ≥4/5 or selection of an outcome as most meaningful).

Results

After 2 rounds, consensus was achieved for importance of 9 outcomes on the Likert scale. “Decrease in migraine frequency” reached 100% agreement (82/82), followed by “increased ability to resume normal activities” (96%, 79/82). When asked to choose the 3 most meaningful outcomes, stakeholders selected “decrease in migraine frequency” (88%, 72/82) followed by “decrease in migraine severity” (80%, 66/82). The 2 measures rated as most feasibly collected were “decrease in emergency department/urgent care visits” (95%, 40/42) and “decrease in migraine frequency” (90%, 38/42). There were statistically significant differences between non‐patient and patient stakeholders in selection of “decrease in emergency department/urgent care visits” [20% (12/61) vs 0% (0/21), P = .031]; and employer and patient stakeholders in selection of “decrease in work days missed” [44% (8/18) vs 5% (1/21), P = .006] and “decrease in emergency department/urgent care visits” [22% (4/18) vs 0% (0/21), P = .037] as most meaningful outcomes.

Conclusions

The measures “decrease in migraine frequency” followed by “decrease in migraine severity” were identified as top priority migraine outcome measures.
TRADE ASSOCIATIONS: WHY NOT CARTELS?
Authors: Levine David K. , Mattozzi Andrea , Modica Salvatore
Published: September 2020

The relevance of special interests lobbying in modern democracies can hardly be questioned. But if large trade associations can overcome the free riding problem and form effective lobbies, why do they not also threaten market competition by forming equally effective cartels? We argue that the key to understanding the difference lies in supply elasticity. The group discipline, which works in the case of lobbying, can be effective in sustaining a cartel only if increasing output is sufficiently costly—otherwise the incentive to deviate is too great. The theory helps organizing a number of stylized facts within a common framework.
Towards an ergonomic linguistics: Application to the design of controlled natural languages
Authors: Condamines Anne
Published: September 2020

This article proposes to define a “new” discipline within applied linguistics: ergonomic linguistics. The article addresses issues concerning language use within organizations, focusing on human‐oriented controlled natural languages (CNLs) whose role is to limit the problems encountered with natural language, in professional contexts in particular. An ergonomic linguistics approach involves first taking into account real linguistic productions and analyzing them with corpus linguistics methods, and then evaluating the efficacy of linguists’ recommendations using cognitive evaluation or acceptance tests. Two projects concerning human‐oriented CNLs that adopt an ergonomic linguistics approach are presented, the first in the space domain and the second in aeronautics.
Older workers and poor performance: Examining the association of age stereotypes with expected work performance quality
Authors: Petery Gretchen A. , Wee Serena , Dunlop Patrick D. , Parker Sharon K.
Published: September 2020

We investigated how age‐based worker stereotypes correspond with attributes of expected work performance. Participants (N = 220) rated 86 stereotypical descriptors of older (e.g., ‘resistant to change’) and younger workers (e.g., ‘savvy with technology’). Each descriptor was rated on both the extent that it was a common stereotype about younger (vs. older) workers, and characteristic of good (vs. poor) expected work performance. Ratings revealed stereotypes that were strongly associated with both a worker age group and with work performance quality, offering an explanatory mechanism for how candidates’ ages might influence judgments around personnel selection. A table of the paired age/performance ratings is provided to encourage the development of less age‐biased recruitment and selection materials.
Informal dementia caregivers’ experiences and perceptions about mealtime care: A qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Li Yijing , Sun Dan , Zhang Xu , Li Huanhuan , Zhao Yingnan , Ma Dongfei , Li Zehui , Sun Jiao
Published: September 2020

Aims

To systematically identify, evaluate and synthesize the available qualitative evidence on the mealtime care experiences of informal caregivers of people with dementia.

Design

A qualitative evidence synthesis using the Thomas and Harden method.

Data Sources

All qualitative and mixed‐method studies in English and Chinese were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, CNKI, WanFang, and Vip from the inception of each database until November 2019.

Review Methods

Two researchers independently selected the studies using qualitative assessment and review instruments for quality evaluation and thematic synthesis for the data analysis.

Results

Ten studies were chosen for this review. The analytical themes identified included injecting a new element, moving forward in the challenge and external supports facilitating better coping.

Conclusion

Community nurses should effectively use resources to provide food‐related information and services to families with dementia. Future research should combine informal caregiver experiences and clinical skills to develop high‐quality interventions to improve the quality of mealtimes.

Impact

The findings established that informal caregivers experienced not only changes in their roles and concerns but also emotional changes. Informal caregivers develop different coping strategies to adapt to feeding issues without professional support. Although informal caregivers attach great importance to mealtimes and nutrition issues, they experience a lack of information and support services. Community nurses can provide more economical, practical, and accessible information resources based on informal caregivers’ perceptions of mealtime care. Future interventions need to be more aware of the importance of dyad or family‐centred support services.
Patterns of behaviour in nursing staff actioning the afferent limb of the rapid response system (RRS): A focused ethnography
Authors: Smith Duncan , Cartwright Martin , Dyson Judith , Hartin Jillian , Aitken Leanne M.
Published: September 2020

Aim

To improve understanding of afferent limb behaviour in acute hospital ward settings, to define and specify who needs to do what differently and to report what afferent limb behaviours should be targeted in a subsequent multi‐phase, theory‐based, intervention development process.

Design

Focused ethnography was used including direct observation of nursing staff enacting afferent limb behaviours and review of vital signs charts.

Methods

An observation guide focused observation on “key moments” of the afferent limb. Descriptions of observations from between 7 January 2019–18 December 2019 were recorded in a field journal alongside reflexive notes. Vital signs and early warning scores from charts were reviewed and recorded. Field notes were analysed using structured content analysis. Observed behaviour was compared with expected (policy‐specified) behaviour.

Results

Observation was conducted for 300 hr. Four hundred and ninety‐nine items of data (e.g., an episode of observation or a set of vital signs) were collected. Two hundred and eighty‐nine (58%) items of data were associated with expected (i.e. policy‐specified) afferent limb behaviour; 210 (42%) items of data were associated with unexpected afferent limb behaviour (i.e. alternative behaviour or no behaviour). Ten specific behaviours were identified where the behaviour observed deviated (negatively) from policy or where no action was taken when it should have been. One further behaviour was seen to expedite the assessment of a deteriorating patient by an appropriate responder and was therefore considered a positive deviance.

Conclusion

Afferent limb failure has been described as a problem of inconsistent staff behaviour. Eleven potential target behaviours for change are reported and specified using a published framework.

Impact

Clear specification of target behaviour will allow further enquiry into the determinants of these behaviours and the development of a theory‐based intervention that is more likely to result in behaviour change and can be tested empirically in future research.
The impact of rainforest area reduction in the Guineo‐Congolian region on the tempo of diversification and habitat shifts in the Berlinia clade (Leguminosae)
Authors: de la Estrella Manuel , Cervantes Sandra , Janssens Steven B. , Forest Félix , Hardy Olivier J. , Ojeda Dario I.
Published: September 2020

Aim

The Guineo‐Congolian region in Africa constitutes the second largest area of tropical rainforest (TRF) in the world. It covered an estimated 15–22 million km2 during the late Miocene (55–11 Ma) and it has experienced since a declining trend, currently reaching 3.4 million km2, associated with increasing aridification and the replacement of TRF by savanna habitats. Here, we examine whether rainforest area contraction led to a decrease in net diversification rates linked to increasing extinction, or if it is associated with increasing opportunities for allopatric or ecological speciation during periods of forest fragmentation.

Location

Tropical Africa, Guineo‐Congolian region.

Taxon

Anthonotha, Englerodendron, Berlinia clade (Leguminosae).

Methods

We used a target enrichment approach combined with a complete data set representing all genera within the Berlinia clade. We combined phylogenomic, dating estimates, habitat reconstruction and diversification rate analyses to infer the effect of change in rainforest area coverage at two taxonomic levels: among genera, and within Anthonotha and Englerodendron.

Results

We recovered fully resolved and well‐supported relationships among all genera and among species within the two genera. Most genera (87.5%) diverged before the Pleistocene, but Anthonotha and Englerodendron diversified recently, during the most recent cycles of forest contraction and expansion of the Pleistocene.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that the Berlinia clade displays an overall trend of accumulation of species over evolutionary time, suggesting the reduction in TRF area has not decreased net diversification rates. Most habitat shifts to savanna occurred in the Miocene, with no major habitat shifts during the most recent phases of forest expansion–contraction in the Pleistocene. Shifts in habitat from lowland forest to savanna did not trigger diversification rates, but habitat fragmentation might have increased diversification rates through allopatric speciation.
Remifentanil up‐regulates HIF1α expression to ameliorate hepatic ischaemia/reperfusion injury via the ZEB1/LIF axis
Authors: Zhou Rongsheng , Li Shuang , Mei Xiaopeng , Jiang Tao , Wang Qiang
Published: September 2020

Ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R)‐induced hepatic injury is regarded as a main reason of hepatic failure after transplantation or lobectomy. The current study aimed to investigate how the opioid analgesic remifentanil treatment affects I/R‐induced hepatic injury and explore the possible mechanisms related to HIF1α. Initially, an I/R‐induced hepatic injury animal model was established in C57BL/6 mice, and an in vitro hypoxia‐reoxygenation model was constructed in NCTC‐1469 cells, followed by remifentanil treatment and HIF1α silencing treatment. The levels of blood glucose, lipids, alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) in mouse serum were measured using automatic chemistry analyser, while the viability and apoptosis of cells were detected using CCK8 assay and flow cytometry. Our results revealed that mice with I/R‐induced hepatic injury showed higher serum levels of blood glucose, lipids, ALT and AST and leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) expression, and lower HIF1α and ZEB1 expression (P < .05), which were reversed after remifentanil treatment (P < .05). Besides, HIF1α silencing increased the serum levels of blood glucose, lipids, ALT and AST (P < .05). Furthermore, hypoxia‐induced NCTC‐1469 cells exhibited decreased HIF1α and ZEB1 expression, reduced cell viability, as well as increased LIF expression and cell apoptosis (P < .05), which were reversed by remifentanil treatment (P < .05). Moreover, HIF1α silencing down‐regulated ZEB1 expression, decreased cell viability, and increased cell apoptosis (P < .05). ZEB1 was identified to bind to the promoter region of LIF and inhibit its expression. In summary, remifentanil protects against hepatic I/R injury through HIF1α and downstream effectors.
One‐ versus two‐stage crown lengthening surgical procedure for aesthetic restorative purposes: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: González‐Martín Oscar , Carbajo Georgina , Rodrigo Marta , Montero Eduardo , Sanz Mariano
Published: September 2020

Aim

This randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the efficacy of a two‐stage crown lengthening intervention (SCL) in the aesthetic zone compared with a one‐stage crown lengthening procedure (CCL).

Materials and methods

Thirty subjects were randomly assigned to either SCL (n = 15) or CCL (n = 15) groups. SCL consisted of full‐thickness flaps followed by bone recontouring and gingivectomy 4 months postoperatively, if required. In CCL, osseous recontouring after submarginal incisions was performed, followed by flap repositioning. Records were obtained at baseline, 4 months (only in SCL), 6 months and 12 months. Primary outcome was the precision in achieving a pre‐determined gingival margin position. Other outcomes considered were changes in the gingival margin position and keratinized tissue width (KTW) at 12 months, and patient‐reported outcomes (PROMs).

Results

Surgical precision was comparable between groups (0.2 ± 0.4 mm in the CCL group and −0.2 ± 0.5 mm in the SCL group). Four patients in the SCL group (27.7%) did not require a second‐stage surgery. KTW was significantly higher in the SCL group (6.3 ± 1.4 mm versus 5.0 ± 1.4 mm, p = 0.017). SCL resulted in a lower impact on quality of life when compared to the CCL group.

Conclusions

Both approaches were highly accurate obtaining the desired crown length. SCL was associated with a lower reduction in KTW and more favourable oral health‐related quality of life (OHIP‐14).
Female preference for dominant males in the Mexican mojarra cichlid fish, Cichlasoma istlanum
Authors: Castillo Yuritzi , Arce Elsah
Published: September 2020

It is widely assumed that female preference and male competition operate simultaneously during sexual selection. Dominance is likely an honest indicator of male quality, and females can identify and choose the dominant male to reproduce with individuals with greater competitive abilities, thus improving the quality and competitiveness of their offspring. In this context, few studies have investigated female preference in relation to male fighting ability. The Mexican mojarra, Cichlasoma istlanum, is a cichlid species native to the Balsas River basin. It is territorial during reproduction and provides parental care. Males commonly engage in territorial defence, whereas females care directly for offspring. This study examined whether females prefer dominant males that exhibit more aggressive behaviour. The authors conducted experiments using groups of two males and one female to test competitive ability in males and female preference. They also quantified the time during which the female associated with the dominant male and the subordinate male after observing the outcome of a fight between the two males. They found that Mexican mojarra females preferred dominant males and that the time females spent associating with males was positively related with their aggressive behaviours during competition. These results indicate that dominant males were more attractive than subordinate males to female Mexican mojarra. The relationship between female preference and male dominance in the Mexican mojarra demonstrates the importance of male competitive ability for future parental care in reproduction.
Dental attendance, restoration and extractions in adults with intellectual disabilities compared with the general population: a record linkage study
Authors: Ward L. M. , Cooper S.‐A. , McSkimming P. , Greenlaw N. , Pacitti C. , Gibson J. , Henderson A. , Stanley B. , Pell J. , Kinnear D.
Published: September 2020

Background

Oral health may be poorer in adults with intellectual disabilities (IDs) who rely on carer support and medications with increased dental risks.

Methods

Record linkage study of dental outcomes, and associations with anticholinergic (e.g. antipsychotics) and sugar‐containing liquid medication, in adults with IDs compared with age–sex–neighbourhood deprivation‐matched general population controls.

Results

A total of 2933/4305 (68.1%) with IDs and 7761/12 915 (60.1%) without IDs attended dental care: odds ratio (OR) = 1.42 [1.32, 1.53]; 1359 (31.6%) with IDs versus 5233 (40.5%) without IDs had restorations: OR = 0.68 [0.63, 0.73]; and 567 (13.2%) with IDs versus 2048 (15.9%) without IDs had dental extractions: OR = 0.80 [0.73, 0.89]. Group differences for attendance were greatest in younger ages, and restoration/extractions differences were greatest in older ages. Adults with IDs were more likely prescribed with anticholinergics (2493 (57.9%) vs. 6235 (48.3%): OR = 1.49 [1.39, 1.59]) and sugar‐containing liquids (1641 (38.1%) vs. 2315 (17.9%): OR = 2.89 [2.67, 3.12]).

Conclusion

Carers support dental appointments, but dentists may be less likely to restore teeth, possibly extracting multiple teeth at individual appointments instead.
Examination of genetic and pharmacological tools to study the proteasomal deubiquitinating enzyme ubiquitin‐specific protease 14 in the nervous system
Authors: Tian Tina , McLean John W. , Wilson Julie A. , Wilson Scott M.
Published: September 2020

Strategies for enhancing protein degradation have been proposed for treating neurological diseases associated with a decline in proteasome activity. A proteasomal deubiquitinating enzyme that controls substrate entry into proteasomes, ubiquitin‐specific protease 14 (USP14), is an attractive candidate for therapies that modulate proteasome activity. This report tests the validity of genetic and pharmacological tools to study USP14’s role in regulating protein abundance. Although previous studies implicated USP14 in the degradation of microtubule associate protein tau, tar DNA binding protein, and prion protein, the levels of these proteins were similar in our neurons cultured from wild type and USP14‐deficient mice. Neither loss nor over‐expression of USP14 affected the levels of these proteins in mice, implying that modifying the amount of USP14 is not sufficient to alter their steady‐state levels. However, neuronal over‐expression of a catalytic mutant of USP14 showed that manipulating USP14’s ubiquitin‐hydrolase activity altered the levels of specific proteins in vivo. Although pharmacological inhibitors of USP14’s ubiquitin‐hydrolase activity reduced microtubule associate protein tau, tar DNA binding protein, and prion protein in culture, the effect was similar in wild type and USP14‐deficient neurons, thus impacting their use for specifically evaluating USP14 in a therapeutic manner. While examining how targeting USP14 may affect other proteins in vivo, this report showed that fatty acid synthase, v‐rel reticuloendotheliosis viral oncogene homolog, CTNNB1, and synaptosome associated protein 23 are reduced in USP14‐deficient mice; however, loss of USP14 differentially altered the levels of these proteins in the liver and brain. As such, it is critical to more thoroughly examine how inhibiting USP14 alters protein abundance to determine if targeting USP14 will be a beneficial strategy for treating neurodegenerative diseases.

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Glans clitoris innervation: PIEZO2 and sexual mechanosensitivity
Authors: García‐Mesa Yolanda , Cárcaba Lucía , Coronado César , Cobo Ramón , Martín‐Cruces José , García‐Piqueras Jorge , Feito Jorge , García‐Suárez Olivia , Vega José A.
Published: September 2020

The clitoris is a leading player in female sexual arousal, if not the main protagonist. Despite this role, studies performed on this structure with specific neuroanatomical techniques are few. This study focuses on glans clitoris innervation, with special emphasis on sensory corpuscles and the presence of the mechanotransducer protein PIEZO2 in these structures. Six glans clitoris samples were obtained at autopsy covering an age spectrum between 52 and 83 years old. Several types of nerve terminations including free nerve endings, genital endbulbs as well as Meissner‐like corpuscles and Pacinian corpuscles, but not Ruffini corpuscles, were found. Although corpuscular morphology in the glans clitoris was subtly different from the cutaneous digital counterparts, their basic composition was comparable for both Pacinian and Meissner‐like corpuscles. Genital endbulbs showed heterogeneous morphology, and the axons usually exhibited a typical “wool ball” or “yarn ball” aspect. Some of them were lobulated and variably encapsulated by endoneurial elements (65%); from the capsule originate septa that divides the genital endbulbs, suggesting that they are found in clusters rather than as single corpuscles. In addition, most corpuscles in the glans clitoris showed axonal PIEZO2 immunoreactivity, thus, suggesting a mechanical role and molecular mechanisms of mechanosensibility similar to those of digital Meissner's corpuscles. Our results demonstrate that sensory corpuscles of the glans clitoris are similar to those of other glabrous skin zones, as most genital organs are characterized by clusters of corpuscles and the occurrence of the mechanoprotein PIEZO2 in the axons. These findings strongly suggest that PIEZO2 participates in erotic and sexual mechanical sensing.
Largely on their own: Dealing with the rural legacies of conflict through local participatory peacebuilding
Authors: Velásquez Mauricio , Ávila Nikolai , Villota Mónica , Quintero Francisco , Arbeláez Sebastián
Published: September 2020

Rural participatory peacebuilding was central to the peace agreement signed between the Colombian government and the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC). Although rural reform included several elements dealing with the agrarian legacies of the war, none of them were implemented before the participatory process took place. We spend several months in three municipalities during the first year of implementation as the local participatory process unfolded. We find that structural obstacles with significant agrarian roots were affecting local participatory peacebuilding. Specifically, by comparing cases of how these legacies produced a persistent lack of trust of the state, fatally debilitated the organizational capacity of communities and drastically hindered the social reintegration of ex‐combatants, we show that local participation cannot replace structural agendas of rural reconstruction. Participatory democracy should be welcomed as peacebuilding strategy in rural contexts. In practice, however, when this promotion of local participation fails to be nested within a wider political pact addressing the deep agrarian dimension of the conflict, the net result is to displace responsibility from the national political class towards local communities who are asked to confront the legacies of war largely on their own.
Right cardiac involvement in lung diseases: a multimodality approach from diagnosis to prognostication
Authors: Mandoli G. E. , De Carli G. , Pastore M. C. , Cameli P. , Contorni F. , D’Alessandro M. , Bargagli E. , Mondillo S. , Cameli M.
Published: September 2020

Lung diseases are amongst the main healthcare issues in the general population, having a high burden of morbidity and mortality. The cardiovascular system has a key role in patients affected by respiratory disorders. More specifically, the right ventricle (RV) enables the impaired lung function to be overcome in an initial stage of disease process, reducing the severity of dyspnoea. In addition, two of the main causes of death in this setting are RV failure and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Echocardiography is regarded as a useful and easily available tool in assessing RV function. Several noninvasive echocardiographic parameters of elevated pulmonary pressures and RV function have been proposed. The combination of different parameters and imaging methods is paramount and researches regarding RV impairment using these indices has been specifically addressed in relation to the chronic obstructive and restrictive lung disease in order to guide the clinicians in the management of these patients. Cardiac involvement in lung diseases is often observed, and RV changes are reported also in early stages of pulmonary diseases. The role of right ventricle in chronic respiratory disease patients has to be evaluated in detail to describe the response to therapy and the degree of disease progression through multimodality and advanced imaging techniques. The aim of this review is to describe the different pathophysiological mechanisms of cardiac impairment in primary lung disease (such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and sarcoidosis) and to summarize the role of cardiac multimodality imaging in the diagnosis and the prognosis of these diseases.
Mechanisms of intermittent hypoxia‐mediated macrophage activation – potential therapeutic targets for obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Fitzpatrick Susan F. , King Ailbhe D. , O’Donnell Cliona , Roche Helen M. , Ryan Silke
Published: September 2020

Intermittent hypoxia (IH) plays a key role in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance (IR) in obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). IH induces a pro‐inflammatory phenotype of the adipose tissue with M1 macrophage polarisation, subsequently impeding adipocyte insulin signalling, and these changes are in striking similarity to those seen in obesity. However, the detailed molecular mechanisms of IH‐induced macrophage polarisation are unknown and identification of same should lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that IH acts through similar mechanisms as obesity, activating Toll‐like‐receptor (TLR)4/nuclear factor κ‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐κB) and nucleotide‐binding domain (NOD)‐like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) signalling pathways leading to the upregulation and secretion of the key cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐6. Bone‐marrow derived macrophages (BMDMs) from lean and obese C57BL/6 male mice were exposed to a state‐of‐the‐art in vitro model of IH. Independent of obesity, IH led to a pro‐inflammatory M1 phenotype characterised by increased inducible nitric oxide synthase and IL‐6 mRNA expression, robust increase in NF‐κB DNA‐binding activity and IL‐6 secretion. Furthermore, IH significantly increased pro‐IL‐1β mRNA and protein expression and mature IL‐1β secretion compared to control treatment. Providing mechanistic insight, pre‐treatment with the TLR4 specific inhibitor, TAK‐242, prevented IH‐induced M1 polarisation and upregulation of IL‐1β mRNA and pro‐IL‐1β protein expression. Moreover, IH‐induced increase in IL‐1β secretion was prevented in BMDMs isolated from NLRP3 knockout mice. Thus, targeting TLR4/NF‐κB and NLRP3 signalling pathways may provide novel therapeutic options for metabolic complications in OSA.
Why do certain species dominate? What we can learn from a rare case of Microdictyon dominance on a Caribbean reef
Authors: Dell Claire L. A. , Longo Guilherme O. , Manfrino Carrie , Burkepile Deron E.
Published: September 2020

Many Caribbean reefs have shifted from coral dominance to macroalgal dominance, often by brown algae such as Dictyota and Lobophora. However, the north side of Cayman Brac in the Cayman Islands is dominated seasonally by the green macroalga Microdictyon (percent cover of Microdictyon is 4% in the winter and ~40% of the reef in the summer), although it is absent from the south side of the island and the remainder of the country. Indeed, Microdictyon is rare in much of the Caribbean, so this situation on Cayman Brac provides an opportunity to investigate the conditions that facilitate its distribution and dominance. The impact of herbivory, competition, nutrient input and other abiotic conditions were examined as factors that could influence the distribution and dominance of Microdictyon. While herbivory or nutrient input are frequently found to be key drivers of benthic community composition on coral reefs, here consumption of Microdictyon by herbivores was low, and thus, the alga was not subject to strong top‐down control by herbivory. So, in this case, neither herbivore abundance nor feeding preference appeared to influence the distribution of Microdictyon. Nutrient input was also similar to both sides of the island suggesting nutrients played little role in differential distribution. But, in a controlled transplant experiment where Microdictyon was protected from herbivory and competition, it experienced almost complete mortality (93.3%) when transplanted to the south side, compared to only 11.8% mortality on the north. The south side was exposed to the strongest wave action 92% of the days in our study and was on average a slight, but significant 0.2°C warmer. Thus, these data suggest physical forcing (i.e. wave exposure) is the most likely factor dictating Microdictyon distribution. Conversely, a combination of reduced herbivory and increased competitive strength may explain the seasonal dominance of Microdictyon on the north side of Cayman Brac. Microdictyon was a competitive inferior to the other common algae in winter but increased in competitive strength to equal other species in summer. These results add to the literature on Microdictyon and on the forces impacting benthic community structure of coral reefs.
A population genomics approach to uncover the CNVs, and their evolutionary significance, hidden in reduced‐representation sequencing data sets
Authors: Tigano Anna
Published: September 2020

The importance of structural variation in adaptation and speciation is becoming increasingly evident in the literature. Among SVs, copy number variants (CNVs) are known to affect phenotypes through changes in gene expression and can potentially reduce recombination between alleles with different copy numbers. However, little is known about their abundance, distribution and frequency in natural populations. In a “From the Cover” article in this issue of Molecular Ecology, Dorant et al. (2020) present a new cost‐effective approach to genotype copy number variants (CNVs) from large reduced‐representation sequencing (RRS) data sets in nonmodel organisms, and thus to analyse sequence and structural variation jointly. They show that in American lobsters (Homarus americanus), CNVs exhibit strong population structure and several significant associations with annual variance in sea surface temperature, while SNPs fail to uncover any population structure or genotype–environment associations. Their results clearly illustrate that structural variants like CNVs can potentially store important information on differentiation and adaptive differences that cannot be retrieved from the analysis of sequence variation alone. To better understand the factors affecting the evolution of CNVs and their role in adaptation and speciation, we need to compare and synthesize data from a wide variety of species with different demographic histories and genome structure. The approach developed by Dorant et al. (2020) now allows to gain crucial knowledge on CNVs in a cost‐effective way, even in species with limited genomic resources.
A juvenile case of epilepsy‐associated, isocitrate dehydrogenase wild‐type/histone 3 wild‐type diffuse glioma with a rare BRAFA598T mutation
Authors: Sadashima Shoko , Suzuki Satoshi O. , Haruyama Hironori , Mukae Nobutaka , Fujioka Yutaka , Hata Nobuhiro , Mizoguchi Masahiro , Ishimatsu Keisuke , Hiwatashi Akio , Iwaki Toru
Published: September 2020

Here, we report a juvenile (18‐year‐old male) case of epilepsy‐associated, isocitrate dehydrogenase wild‐type/histone 3 wild‐type diffuse glioma with a rare BRAF mutation and a focal atypical feature resembling diffuse astrocytoma. The patient presented with refractory temporal lobe epilepsy. Subsequently, magnetic resonance imaging revealed a hyperintense lesion in the right temporal lobe on fluid attenuated inversion recovery images. The patient underwent right lateral temporal lobectomy and amygdalohippocampectomy. Histopathologically, the tumor showed isomorphic, diffuse, infiltrative proliferation of glial tumor cells and intense CD34 immunoreactivity. The tumor cells were immunonegative for isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) R132H and BRAF V600E. Notably, the tumor cells showed the lack of nuclear staining for α‐thalassemia/mental retardation syndrome, X‐linked (ATRX). In addition, the Ki‐67 labeling index, using a monoclonal antibody MIB‐1, was elevated focally at tumor cells with p53 immunoreactivity. Molecular analyses identified a BRAFA598T mutation, the first case reported in a glioma. BRAFA598T is predicted to result in loss of kinase action; however, inactive mutants can stimulate mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)‐extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) signaling through CRAF activation. Thus, according to the recent update of the consortium to inform molecular and practical approaches to central nervous system tumor taxonomy (cIMPACT‐NOW update 4), our case is also compatible with diffuse glioma with the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway alteration. Thorough immunohistochemical and molecular studies are necessary for diagnosis of epilepsy‐associated, diffuse gliomas. Partial resemblance in histopathological and molecular genetic features to diffuse astrocytoma also calls for attention.
Astragalus sertavulensis (sect. Onobrychoidei/Fabaceae), a new species from Turkey
Authors: Aytaç Zeki , Çeçen Ömer , Fişne Ahter
Published: September 2020

Astragalus sertavulensis is described as a new species from Karaman in south Anatolia, Turkey. The new species is closely related to A. mesogitanus Boiss. & Balansa and A. lycaonicus Hub.‐Mor. & Reese and is one of only three species in the section that have a hairy corolla. However, while only the standard is hairy in A. mesogitanus, and all the corolla parts are hairy in A. lycaonicus, only the standard and keel are hairy in A. sertavulensis. Furthermore, A. sertavulensis is the only member of the section where the stipules are close to the internodes, at least at the base. A taxonomic description as well as pollen and other morphological characters of the new species were presented. In addition, the geographical distribution of A. sertavulensis, A. mesogitanus and A. lycaonicus is mapped.
A synopsis of the endemic plant genera of Borneo
Authors: Neo Louise , Wong K. M. , Tan Hugh T. W.
Published: September 2020

The large, tropical island of Borneo has some of the world's richest habitats for plant life, but faces increasing pressures from anthropogenic activities that threaten its biodiversity. With a good portion of the Bornean flora not critically studied, a comprehensive documentation of the numerous endemic taxa expected for the island is not yet complete. It is not known what the relative significance of endemic genera is compared to Bornean centres of endemism documented or predicted through modelling, and if they can inform current conservation plans. As a first step, we here present a synopsis of the endemic genera of Borneo, based on a comprehensive study of literature, herbarium specimens and distributional data, and an investigation of whether the genera have been included in molecular phylogenetic studies that confirm their monophyly. Such a review is timely since many generic delimitations have been shaped by molecular evidence used to test morphology‐based taxonomy, while botanical collection and revisionary efforts continue. Our findings suggest that 65 vascular plant genera from 25 families may be considered endemic to Borneo. More than two‐thirds (48) of these genera have had at least one species included in molecular phylogenetic studies, but of these, only 39 have been sufficiently sampled to be considered monophyletic with high confidence, or they are monotypic. Slightly over half (38) of the endemic genera are herbaceous. A majority of the genera have fruits or seeds specialised for dispersal by abiotic vectors, or unspecialised seeds. Almost two‐thirds (42) of the endemic genera are monotypic, and some of these could represent relict lineages. We expect the current list of endemic genera to be relatively stable and aligned with recent taxonomic concepts, and that it serves to illuminate an interesting aspect of Borneo's unique assemblage of endemic species.
Ultrasound assessment of gastric emptying time after intake of clear fluids in children scheduled for general anesthesia—A prospective observational study
Authors: Beck Christiane E. , Chandrakumar Thurgkai , Sümpelmann Robert , Nickel Katja , Keil Oliver , Heiderich Sebastian , Boethig Dietmar , Witt Lars , Dennhardt Nils
Published: September 2020

Background

While many clinics have changed their local regimen toward a more liberal policy regarding clear fluid fasting for general anesthesia, there is a lack of studies evaluating gastric emptying time in a clinical setting.

Aims

Based on this and before implementation of a more liberal preoperative clear fluid fasting policy for children, we studied gastric emptying time of clear fluids in children and hypothesized that the mean gastric emptying time would be 1 hour.

Methods

Between March and December 2019, children scheduled for general anesthesia at our University Children's Hospital were enrolled in this prospective observational study. After overnight fasting, gastric emptying was examined by sonographic measurements of the gastric antral area before and 5, 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes after intake of water or fruit juice.

Results

Twenty‐six children were enrolled in this study, and 24 aged 11 (range 4‐17) years were included for statistical analysis. The median ingested fluid volume was 4.7 (range 1.8‐11.8) mL kg−1. The gastric antral area of the children initially increased and subsequently decreased after intake of clear fluids and correlated significantly with fasting time (r = −0.55, P < .0001). After 1 hour, the gastric antral area had returned to the baseline level in 20 children but not in four children with a fluid intake >5 mL kg−1. There was no difference in the gastric antral area between water and fruit juice. Using a linear regression model, the calculated mean gastric emptying time of clear fluids was 52 minutes.

Conclusion

This study showed that the gastric emptying time of children after intake up to 5 mL kg−1 clear fluids was <1 hour in a clinical setting. These results support the more liberal fasting regimen favoring a 1‐hour fasting time and suggest 5 mL kg−1 as an upper limit for clear fluids (eg, water, sugared water or tea or diluted fruit juice) from 2 hours to 1 hour before induction of anesthesia in children.
Understanding the classics: the unifying concepts of transgressive segregation, inbreeding depression and heterosis and their central relevance for crop breeding
Authors: Mackay Ian J. , Cockram James , Howell Phil , Powell Wayne
Published: September 2020

Transgressive segregation and heterosis are the reasons that plant breeding works. Molecular explanations for both phenomena have been suggested and play a contributing role. However, it is often overlooked by molecular genetic researchers that transgressive segregation and heterosis are most simply explained by dispersion of favorable alleles. Therefore, advances in molecular biology will deliver the most impact on plant breeding when integrated with sources of heritable trait variation – and this will be best achieved within a quantitative genetics framework. An example of the power of quantitative approaches is the implementation of genomic selection, which has recently revolutionized animal breeding. Genomic selection is now being applied to both hybrid and inbred crops and is likely to be the major source of improvement in plant breeding practice over the next decade. Breeders’ ability to efficiently apply genomic selection methodologies is due to recent technology advances in genotyping and sequencing. Furthermore, targeted integration of additional molecular data (such as gene expression, gene copy number and methylation status) into genomic prediction models may increase their performance. In this review, we discuss and contextualize a suite of established quantitative genetics themes relating to hybrid vigour, transgressive segregation and their central relevance to plant breeding, with the aim of informing crop researchers outside of the quantitative genetics discipline of their relevance and importance to crop improvement. Better understanding between molecular and quantitative disciplines will increase the potential for further improvements in plant breeding methodologies and so help underpin future food security.