bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual transcriptome analysis reveals differential gene expression modulation influenced by Leishmania arginase and host genetic background
Authors: Aoki Juliana Ide , Muxel Sandra Marcia , Laranjeira-Silva Maria Fernanda , Zampieri Ricardo Andrade , Müller Karl Erik , Nerland Audun Helge , Floeter-Winter Lucile Maria
Published: September 2020

The outcome of Leishmania infection is strongly influenced by the host’s genetic background. BALB/c mice are susceptible to Leishmania infection, while C57BL/6 mice show discrete resistance. Central to the fate of the infection is the availability of l-arginine and the related metabolic processes in the host and parasite. Depending on l-arginine availability, nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) of the host cell produces nitric oxide (NO) controlling the parasite growth. On the other hand, Leishmania can also use host l-arginine for the production of polyamines through its own arginase activity, thus favouring parasite replication. Considering RNA-seq data, we analysed the dual modulation of host and parasite gene expression of BALB/c or C57BL/6 mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) after 4 h of infection with Leishmania amazonensis wild-type (La-WT) or L. amazonensis arginase knockout (La-arg-). We identified 12 641 host transcripts and 8282 parasite transcripts by alignment analysis with the respective Mus musculus and L. mexicana genomes. The comparison of BALB/c_La-arg-
versus BALB/c_La-WT revealed 233 modulated transcripts, with most related to the immune response and some related to the amino acid transporters and l-arginine metabolism. In contrast, the comparison of C57BL/6_La-arg-
vs. C57BL/6_La-WT revealed only 30 modulated transcripts, including some related to the immune response but none related to amino acid transport or l-arginine metabolism. The transcriptome profiles of the intracellular amastigote revealed 94 modulated transcripts in the comparison of La-arg-_BALB/c vs. La-WT_BALB/c and 45 modulated transcripts in the comparison of La-arg-_C57BL/6 vs. La-WT_C57BL/6. Taken together, our data present new insights into the impact of parasite arginase activity on the orchestration of the host gene expression modulation, including in the immune response and amino acid transport and metabolism, mainly in susceptible BALB/c-infected macrophages. Moreover, we show how parasite arginase activity affects parasite gene expression modulation, including amino acid uptake and amastin expression.
The interaction of Escherichia coli O157 :H7 and Salmonella Typhimurium flagella with host cell membranes and cytoskeletal components
Authors: Wolfson Eliza B. , Elvidge Johanna , Tahoun Amin , Gillespie Trudi , Mantell Judith , McAteer Sean P. , Rossez Yannick , Paxton Edith , Lane Fiona , Shaw Darren J. , Gill Andrew C. , Stevens Jo , Verkade Paul , Blocker Ariel , Mahajan Arvind , Gally David L.
Published: September 2020

Bacterial flagella have many established roles beyond swimming motility. Despite clear evidence of flagella-dependent adherence, the specificity of the ligands and mechanisms of binding are still debated. In this study, the molecular basis of

Escherichia coli

O157:H7 and

Salmonella enterica

serovar Typhimurium flagella binding to epithelial cell cultures was investigated. Flagella interactions with host cell surfaces were intimate and crossed cellular boundaries as demarcated by actin and membrane labelling. Scanning electron microscopy revealed flagella disappearing into cellular surfaces and transmission electron microscopy of S. Typhiumurium indicated host membrane deformation and disruption in proximity to flagella. Motor mutants of

E. coli

O157:H7 and S. Typhimurium caused reduced haemolysis compared to wild-type, indicating that membrane disruption was in part due to flagella rotation. Flagella from

E. coli

O157 (H7), EPEC O127 (H6) and S. Typhimurium (P1 and P2 flagella) were shown to bind to purified intracellular components of the actin cytoskeleton and directly increase in vitro actin polymerization rates. We propose that flagella interactions with host cell membranes and cytoskeletal components may help prime intimate attachment and invasion for

E. coli

O157:H7 and S. Typhimurium, respectively.
Lactobacillus commensals autochthonous to human milk have the hallmarks of potent probiotics
Authors: Anjum Jasia , Nazir Shahid , Tariq Muhammad , Barrett Kim , Zaidi Arsalan
Published: September 2020

Maternal milk is an important source of essential nutrients for the optimal growth of infants. Breastfeeding provides a continuous supply of beneficial bacteria to colonize the infant gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and offers health benefits for disease prevention and immunity. The purpose of this study was to isolate novel probiotic strains from the breast milk of native Pakistani mothers and to evaluate their probiotic potential. We isolated 21 strains of bacteria from the colostrum and mature milk of 20 healthy mothers, who had vaginal deliveries and were not taking antibiotics. After phenotypic and genotypic characterization, these isolates were tested for survival in the GIT using in vitro acid and bile tests. Nine strains showing good acid tolerance were assessed for their growth rate, bile resistance and ability to hydrolyze bile salts. Out of the four

Lactobacillus

isolates adjudged to be most promising as probiotics, three were

Lactobacillus fermentum

strains and one was a strain of

Lactobacillus oris

. This study demonstrates that human milk is a viable source of commensal bacteria beneficial to both adults and babies.
Impact of universal masking in health care and community on SARS-CoV-2 spread
Authors: Pletz MW , Steiner A , Kesselmeier M , Löffler B , Trommer S , Weis S , Maschmann J , Stallmach A
Published: September 2020

Universal masking the health care setting and in the community to contain the spread of SARS-CoV-2 has been recently recommended by the WHO, but supporting data are rare. The City of Jena was the first community in Germany to issue an order on mandatory public masking. Here, we report the development of the number of novel infections in our hospital and in the city of Jena after implementation of universal masking in our hospital and the city.
Discrimination of breast cancer from healthy breast tissues using a three-component diffusion-weighted MRI model
Authors: Andreassen Maren M. Sjaastad , Rodríguez-Soto Ana E. , Conlin Christopher C. , Vidić Igor , Seibert Tyler M. , Wallace Anne M. , Zare Somaye , Kuperman Joshua , Abudu Boya , Ahn Grace S. , Hahn Michael , Jerome Neil P. , Østlie Agnes , Bathen Tone F. , Ojeda-Fournier Haydee , Goa Pål Erik , Rakow-Penner Rebecca , Dale Anders M.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) is a contrast-free modality that has demonstrated ability to discriminate between pre-defined benign and malignant breast lesions. However, the ability of DW-MRI to discriminate cancer tissue from all other breast tissues in a clinical setting is unknown. Here we explore the ability to distinguish breast cancer from healthy breast tissues using signal contributions from the newly developed three-component multi-b-value DW-MRI model.

Experimental design

Pathology-proven breast cancer patients from two datasets (n=81 and n=25) underwent multi-b-value DW-MRI. The three-component signal contributions C1 and C2 and their product, C1C2, were compared to the image defined on maximum b-value (DWImax), conventional apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and apparent diffusion kurtosis (Kapp). Ability to discriminate between cancer and healthy breast tissues was assessed by the false positive rate given sensitivity of 80% (FPR80) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC).

Results

Mean FPR80 for both datasets was 0.016 (95%CI=0.008–0.024) for C1C2, 0.136 (95%CI=0.092–0.180) for C1, 0.068 (95%CI=0.049–0.087) for C2, 0.159 (95%CI=0.114–0.204) for DWImax, 0.731 (95%CI=0.692–0.770) for ADC and 0.684 (95%CI=0.660–0.709) for Kapp. Mean ROC AUC for C1C2 was 0.984 (95%CI=0.977–0.991).

Conclusions

The three-component model yields a clinically useful discrimination between cancer and healthy breast tissues, superior to other DW-MRI methods and obliviating pre-defining lesions by radiologists. This novel DW-MRI method may serve as non-contrast alternative to standard-of-care dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI); removing the need to administer Gadolinium contrast decreases scan time and any accumulation of Gadolinium in the brain.
A computational systems biology approach identifies SLUG as a mediator of partial Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT)
Authors: Subbalakshmi Ayalur Raghu , Sahoo Sarthak , Biswas Kuheli , Jolly Mohit Kumar
Published: September 2020

Epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity comprises of reversible transitions among epithelial, hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal (E/M) and mesenchymal phenotypes, and underlies various aspects of aggressive tumor progression such as metastasis, therapy resistance and immune evasion. The process of cells attaining one or more hybrid E/M phenotypes is termed as partial EMT. Cells in hybrid E/M phenotype(s) can be more aggressive than those in either fully epithelial or mesenchymal state. Thus, identifying regulators of hybrid E/M phenotypes is essential to decipher the rheostats of phenotypic plasticity and consequent accelerators of metastasis. Here, using a computational systems biology approach, we demonstrate that SLUG (SNAIL2) – an EMT-inducing transcription factor – can inhibit cells from undergoing a complete EMT and thus stabilizing them in hybrid E/M phenotype(s). It expands the parametric range enabling the existence of a hybrid E/M phenotype, thereby behaving as a phenotypic stability factor (PSF). Our simulations suggest that this specific property of SLUG emerges from the topology of the regulatory network it forms with other key regulators of epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity. Clinical data suggests that SLUG associates with worse patient prognosis across multiple carcinomas. Together, our results indicate that SLUG can stabilize hybrid E/M phenotype(s).
The tricuspid valve also maladapts: A multiscale study in sheep with biventricular heart failure
Authors: Meador William D , Mathur Mrudang , Sugerman Gabriella P , Malinowski Marcin , Jazwiec Tomasz , Wang Xinmei , Lacerda Carla MR , Timek Tomasz A , Rausch Manuel K
Published: September 2020

Objectives

We set out to determine the tricuspid valve’s propensity to (mal)adapt in disease.

Background

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is generally considered secondary to right and/or left ventricular disease without organic failure. Interestingly, we and others have previously shown the mitral valve (mal)adapts in functional mitral regurgitation, which may warrant reconsideration of its functional etiology. Whether the tricuspid valve similarly (mal)adapts is mostly unknown.

Methods

We evaluated the (mal)adaptive response of tricuspid valve anterior leaflets (TVALs) from an ovine model in which over-pacing (19 ± 6 days) induced biventricular heart failure and TR (tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy, TIC, n=33) and compared findings to those from a control group (n=17). In both groups, we performed proteomics, immunohistochemistry, histology, two-photon microscopy, collagen assays, leaflet thickness and morphology measurements, and biaxial mechanical tests.

Results

We found metabolically active resident valvular cells in TIC TVALs which expressed activation and turnover markers. In TIC TVALs, we observed a 140% increase in collagen content (p=0.016), increased collagen dispersion regionally (p=0.017), a 130% increase in leaflet area (p=0.002), a 140% increase in thickness (p=0.006), and a 130% increase in radial stiffness (p=0.006).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that TVALs (mal)adapt during TIC on all scales. This response is likely initiated by activated valvular cells, resulting in collagen turnover, and ultimately leading to thickening, area increase, and stiffening. Our data motivates future studies on the exact pathways leading to tricuspid (mal)adaptation and pharmacological therapeutic strategies for TR.

Condensed Abstract

In most cases, tricuspid regurgitation is presumed to originate from valve extrinsic factors. We challenge this paradigm and hypothesize that the tricuspid valve maladapts, rendering the valve at least partially culpable for its dysfunction. As such, we set out to demonstrate that the tricuspid valve, indeed, maladapts in an ovine model of heart disease. In the anterior leaflets, we found alterations on the protein and cell-level, leading to maladaptation in the form of tissue growth, thickening, and stiffening. Our findings may initially motivate mechanistic pathway studies, and in the future, leaflet-targeted pharmacological therapeutic options for tricuspid regurgitation.
First report of emerging snake fungal disease caused by Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola from Asia in imported captive snakes in Japan
Authors: Takami Yoshinori , Une Yumi , Mitsui Ikki , Hemmi Chizuka , Takaki Youki , Hosoya Tsuyoshi , Nam Kyung-Ok
Published: September 2020

Snake fungal disease (SFD) (Ophidiomycosis) is an emerging infectious disease caused by the fungus Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola which has been affecting wild and captive snakes in North America, Europe, and Australia. We report the cases of 12 imported captive colubrid snakes in Japan suspected of having SFD. Pathological and microbiological examinations were performed, and the results confirmed the diagnosis of SFD in two snakes, which indicated that the remaining sympatrically raised snakes also had SFD since they exhibited similar lesions. The oral administration of ciprofloxacin in addition to itraconazole had a significant treatment effect. This is the first report of SFD in Asia caused by O. ophiodiicola. To prevent the expansion of SFD in the natural environment in Japan, there is a need to evaluate the SFD carrier status of imported snakes, the pathogenicity of the infection in native snakes, and the prevalence and distribution of SFD in wild and captive snakes. Measures also must be taken to prevent endemicity globally.
Identification of germ cell-specificMgavariant mRNA that promotes meiotic entry via impediment of a non-canonical PRC1
Authors: Kitamura Yuka , Uranishi Kousuke , Hirasaki Masataka , Nishimoto Masazumi , Suzuki Ayumu , Okuda Akihiko
Published: September 2020

Transition from mitosis to meiosis in cell division is a fundamental process of gametogenesis. This transition is thought to be largely controlled by the exchange of relative dominance between positive and negative regulation by the retinoic acid/Stra8 signal cascade and a non-canonical PRC1 (PRC1.6), respectively. We have previously demonstrated that germ cells have transcriptionally and/or post-translationally reduced levels of MAX, a component of PRC1.6, immediately prior to meiotic onset, leading to alleviation of the negative effect of PRC1.6 against meiotic onset. Here, we found that germ cells producedMgavariant mRNA bearing a premature termination codon (PTC) during meiosis as an additional mechanism to impede the function of PRC1.6. Our data indicated that spermatocytes and/or round spermatids produced an anomalous MGA protein lacking the bHLHZ domain from the variant mRNA and therefore functioned as a dominant negative regulator of PRC1.6 by exquisitely using their inefficient background of PTC-mediated nonsense-mediated mRNA decay. Thus, our data indicate that meiotic onset of male germ cells is controlled in a multi-layered manner in which both MAX and MGA, which constitute the core of PRC1.6 by their interaction, are at least used as targets to deteriorate the integrity of the complex to ensure initiation of meiosis.

Significance Statement

PRC1.6, a non-canonical PRC1, functions as a strong blocker of meiotic onset. Therefore, germ cells need to alleviate the function of the complex as a prerequisite for meiotic onset. The MGA/MAX heterodimer not only constitutes a core of PRC1.6, but also confers direct DNA-binding activity to the complex. We have previously demonstrated that germ cells reduce Max amounts prior to meiotic onset to inactivate PRC1.6. In this study, we explored the possibility of an additional molecular mechanism that promotes meiotic onset via impediment of PRC1.6 functions as a safeguard system. Here, we demonstrate that meiotic germ cells specifically generate variantMgamRNA by alternative splicing, which leads to production of a dominant negative regulator of PRC1.6.
Reconstruction of clone- and haplotype-specific cancer genome karyotypes from bulk tumor samples
Authors: Aganezov Sergey , Raphael Benjamin J.
Published: September 2020

Many cancer genomes are extensively rearranged with aberrant chromosomal karyotypes. Deriving these karyotypes from high-throughput DNA sequencing of bulk tumor samples is complicated because most tumors are a heterogeneous mixture of normal cells and subpopulations of cancer cells, or clones, that harbor distinct somatic mutations. We introduce a new algorithm, Reconstructing Cancer Karyotypes (RCK), to reconstruct haplotype-specific karyotypes of one or more rearranged cancer genomes from DNA sequencing data from a bulk tumor sample. RCK leverages evolutionary constraints on the somatic mutational process in cancer to reduce ambiguity in the deconvolution of admixed sequencing data into multiple haplotype-specific cancer karyotypes. RCK models mixtures containing an arbitrary number of derived genomes and allows the incorporation of information both from short-read and long-read DNA sequencing technologies. We compare RCK to existing approaches on 17 primary and metastatic prostate cancer samples. We find that RCK infers cancer karyotypes that better explain the DNA sequencing data and conform to a reasonable evolutionary model. RCK’s reconstructions of clone- and haplotype-specific karyotypes will aid further studies of the role of intra-tumor heterogeneity in cancer development and response to treatment. RCK is freely available as open source software.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of (E)-2-{[(2-iodophenyl)imino]methyl}-6-methylphenol
Authors: Kansiz Sevgi , Agar Tuggan , Dege Necmi , Dogan Onur Erman , Ahmed Ruby , Saif Eiad
Published: September 2020

The title compound, C14H12INO, was synthesized by condensation of 2-hydroxy-3-methylbenzaldehyde and 2-iodoaniline, and crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group P212121. The 2-iodophenyl and benzene rings are twisted with respect to each other, making a dihedral angle of 31.38 (2)°. The molecular structure is stabilized by an O—H...N hydrogen bond, forming an S(6) ring motif. In the crystal, molecules are linked by C—H...π interactions, resulting in the formation of sheets along the a-axis direction. Within the sheets, very weak π–π stacking interactions lead to additional stabilization. The Hirshfeld surface analysis and fingerprint plots reveal that the crystal structure is dominated by H...H (37.1%) and C...H (30.1%) contacts. Hydrogen bonding and van der Waals interactions are the dominant interactions in the crystal packing. The crystal studied was refined as a two-component inversion twin.
MNEs from emerging markets: a review of the current literature through “bibliographic coupling” and social network analysis
Authors: García-Lillo Francisco , Claver Enrique , Marco-Lajara Bartolomé , Seva-Larrosa Pedro , Ruiz-Fernández Lorena
Published: September 2020

Purpose

In recent years, author and document citation and co-citation analyses have often been applied to map the “intellectual structure” of different scientific fields, including management and international business. However, the technique of bibliographic coupling between scientific documents, which seeks to identify active research fronts in a scientific field or discipline, has been less commonly used. This study utilized this technique to identify and visualize the research fronts in the context of papers on emerging markets multinational enterprises (EM-MNEs) recently published in a wide variety of journals. The aim is not only to complement and expand the results obtained in prior studies that have used other types of systematization, such as qualitative content analysis methodology but also to propose avenues for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

The primary databases utilized to carry out the present research work – both comprised in the Web of Science™ (WoS) Core Collection – were: the Social Sciences Citation Index® (SCI) developed by the Institute for Scientific Information (ISI) and the Emerging Sources Citation Index. A total of 496 “peer-reviewed journal articles” published between 2014 and December 30, 2019 were retrieved. With regards to the methodology, bibliometric methods were utilized, as well as social network analysis (SNA).

Findings

Particularly, the analytical techniques employed – adopting a “quantitative” method of a deductive character – allowed the identification of the most active research “fronts” in international research related to the topic under analysis: the phenomenon of EM-MNEs.

Research limitations/implications

The present study has several limitations resulting from the utilization of bibliometric methods applied in the analyses performed.

Originality/value

The authors believe that this research is of value for future researchers since it allows the identification of research “fronts,” which shape the vanguard of knowledge and reveal current trends and future directions in the area under examination.
Supporting English learners in secondary social studies classrooms through collaboration
Authors: Pellegrino Anthony , Brown Clara Lee
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The number of English learners (ELs) has increased dramatically in the public schools across the nation. In 2000, 3.8 m students, or approximately 8% of the US public school student population, were identified as ELs. In 2016, the number reached 4.9 m or 9.6% of the general student population. In some states, the rise in the EL population has been even more pronounced. Their increased presence in content classes poses opportunities as well as great challenges for teachers. As these learners are learning fundamental language skills, they are also responsible for learning content and skills associated with various disciplines. In social studies, it includes developing a foundational understanding of US history, geography and government, while also developing the ability to comprehend, analyze and evaluate complex informational texts, which include contextualized language, low-incidence concepts and discrete facts.

Design/methodology/approach

One way schools are adapting practice for ELs is through collaboration between general education and EL resource teachers. This article reports findings from interviews with a high school social studies teacher and an English as a second language (ESL) colleague.

Findings

The collaboration between these two teachers illustrated how specific strategies thoughtfully designed, yet sensibly implemented, can help teachers feel effective and empowered in their social studies classes. Their story also highlighted ways they have worked together in spite of the system confines.

Originality/value

Together, the authors hope their experiences inform teachers, teacher educators and school leaders about the importance of adapting practices for ELs in social studies and the power of collaboration to make those efforts successful.
Revealing community assembly through barcoding: Mediterranean butterflies and dispersal variation
Authors: Emerson Brent C. , Jiménez‐García Eduardo , Suárez Daniel
Published: September 2020

In Focus: Scalercio, S., Cini, A., Menchetti, M., Vodă, R., Bonelli, S., Bordoni, A., … Dapporto, L. (2020). How long is 3 km for a butterfly? Ecological constraints and functional traits explain high mitochondrial genetic diversity between Sicily and the Italian Peninsula. Journal of Animal Ecology. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365‐2656.13196. Biotic and abiotic factors can shape geographical patterns of genetic variation within species, but few studies have addressed how this might generate common patterns at the level of communities of species. Scalercio et al. (2020) have combined mtDNA sequence data and life‐history traits, to reveal a repeated pattern of genetic structure between Sicilian and southern Italian butterfly populations, which are separated by only 3 km of ocean. They reveal how intrinsic species traits and extrinsic environmental constraints explain this pattern, demonstrating an important role for wind. Moreover, the inclusion of almost 8,000 georeferenced sequences reveals that, in spite of also being present in southern Italy, almost half of Sicilian butterfly species are more closely related to populations from other parts of Europe, Asia or North Africa. We provide further discussion on the biogeographic barrier they identify, and the potential of community‐level DNA barcoding to identify processes that structure genetic variation across communities.
Near‐infrared spectroscopy and data analysis for predicting milk powder quality attributes
Authors: Khan Asma , Munir Muhammad Tajammal , Yu Wei , Young Brent R.
Published: September 2020

Near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is a rapid analytical method for food products. In this study, NIR spectroscopy, data pretreatment techniques and multivariate data analysis were used to predict fine particle size fraction, dispersibility and bulk density of various milk powder samples, which are believed to have a significant impact on milk powder quality. Predictive models using partial least‐squares (PLS) regression were developed using NIR spectra and milk powder physical and functional properties, and it was concluded that the PLS models predicted milk powder quality with an accuracy of 88‐90 per cent.
Carbon‐dioxide Removal and Biodiversity: A Threat Identification Framework
Authors: Dooley Kate , Harrould‐Kolieb Ellycia , Talberg Anita
Published: September 2020

Carbon‐dioxide removal (CDR) technologies offer the potential to contribute to the restoration and protection of natural ecosystems, the achievement of development goals and the safeguarding of human wellbeing. However, these technologies can also present risks to biodiversity, particularly those techniques that depend on large‐scale manipulation of ecosystems and earth‐system processes. Debates around the development of these technologies have historically focused on the dichotomy between the need to expand the knowledge base on all options related to emerging technologies, and the concern that research represents a slippery slope to deployment. This paper introduces a new approach to governing CDR research – one based on threat identification. We present a framework for assessing the impacts (positive or negative) on biodiversity and ecosystems from a spectrum of CDR interventions, so as to prioritize research to those CDR options that present minimal threats to biodiversity. Application of the framework indicates that while many CDR interventions present threats to biodiversity, certain options, such as regenerative CDR, may have positive impacts.
‘Fighting for the Right’: A Functionalist Oral‐History Analysis of Conservative Brazilian Women from the Military Dictatorship (1964–1985) to Jair Bolsonaro's Presidency (2018–)
Authors: Jerónimo Kersh Daliany
Published: September 2020

Conservative women in Brazil played a significant role in the 1964 military coup and Bolsonaro's 2018 election victory. Oral history interviews with conservative women who experienced these two significant political events indicate that they both occurred in a climate of heightened anxiety and anti‐modern moral panic, where social order and traditional structures such as the family and the church were perceived to be under threat from feminism and Marxism. Although it is somewhat disregarded in contemporary studies, this article argues that functionalist ideology, which upholds the sanctity of the traditional family, serves to explain why Brazilian conservative women continue to fervently support the patriarchal status quo.
Comprehensive gastroenterology endoscopy unit workflow and infection prevention during the COVID‐19 Pandemic: Experience with 159 cases in Wuhan, China
Authors: Yu Qiong , Xu Peng , Gan Hongying , Jia Yegui , Xiao Dan , Liao Wenfei , Pi Guoliang , Yu Weizhong
Published: September 2020

During the outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) in Wuhan, the gastroenterology department of our hospital performed gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures using strict infection control measures. Thorough screening of incoming patients, separation of diagnostic and treatment areas, regional management, hierarchical protection, disinfection protocols, and other measures were enforced to prevent virus transmission during endoscopic treatments. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, between February and March 2020, 159 endoscopic examinations and treatments were performed, including emergency endoscopy for 17 patients. Among these, seven patients were either previously infected with or were suspected carriers of the virus. Using the aforementioned control measures, we did not encounter a single case of cross‐infection or infection among the patients or staff. The presented protocols may provide valuable insight regarding how to protect gastroenterology endoscopy units during the novel coronavirus disease pandemic.
Severe epidermolysis bullosa simplex phenotype caused by codominant mutations p.Ile377Thr in keratin 14 and p.Gly138Glu in keratin 5
Authors: Bchetnia Mbarka , Allard Jean‐Pascal , Boucher‐Lafleur Anne‐Marie , Cruz Marino Tania , Dupéré Audrey , Powell Julie , McCuaig Catherine , Bernier Marie‐Ève , Laprise Catherine
Published: September 2020

Epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS) is a rare skin disease usually inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. EBS is resulting from mutations in keratin 5 (KRT5) and keratin 14 (KRT14) genes encoding the keratins 5 and 14 proteins expressed in the keratinocytes of the basal layer of the epidermis. To date, seven pathogenic mutations have been reported to be responsible for EBS in the Canadian population from the province of Quebec: p.Pro25Leu, p.Leu150Pro, p.Met327Thr and p.Arg559X in KRT5; p.Arg125Ser, p.Ile377Thr and p.Ile412Phe in KRT14. Here, we present a novel French‐Canadian patient diagnosed with EBS confined to the soles but presenting a severe complication form including blisters, hyperkeratosis, skin erosions and toenail abnormalities. Mutation screening was performed by direct sequencing of the entire coding regions of KRT5 and KRT14 genes and revealed the previously reported missense heterozygous mutation c. 1130T > C in KRT14 (p.Ile377Thr). Furthermore, this patient is carrying a second mutation in KRT5, c.413G > A (p.Gly138Glu), which has been linked to an increased risk of basal cell carcinoma in the literature. We suspect an impact of the p.Gly138Glu variant on the EBS phenotype severity of the studied patient. The pathogenicity and consequences of both genetic variations were simulated by in silico tools.
Effects of Wu Qin xi Qigong exercise on physical functioning in elderly people with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xiao Chunmei , Zhuang Yongchang , Kang Yong
Published: September 2020

Aim

Exercise therapy is a key intervention in the management of knee osteoarthritis (OA). This study aimed to test the 6‐month effectiveness of Wu Qin Xi Qigong (WQXQ) exercise versus a conventional physical therapy (control group [CG]) on physical functioning in patients with early knee OA.

Methods

This study was a 6‐month follow‐up from a randomized controlled trial. Participants with knee OA were randomly allocated to the WQXQ or CG. Data from the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test, 6‐Minute Walk Test, 30‐Second Chair Stand Test, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, knee extension strength and knee flexion strength were collected before and after the 6‐month intervention.

Results

Both treatment groups demonstrated large (20%–50%) and clinically relevant reductions in activity limitations, pain and knee instability, which were sustained at 6 months post‐treatment. No differences in effectiveness between experimental and control treatment were found on Timed Up and Go Test, 6‐Minute Walk Test, knee extension strength and knee flexion strength except for a higher Berg Balance Scale score (P = 0.029) and lower Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index pain score (P = 0.031) in the WQXQ group.

Conclusions

Both WQXQ and conventional physical therapy exercise programs were highly effective in reducing activity limitations and pain, and promoting balance and muscle power. WQXQ was found to be more effective in promoting balance and reducing pain than conventional physical therapy exercise in patients with knee OA. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 899–903.
How to use a drone safely and effectively for geological studies
Authors: Peacock David C.P. , Corke Elliott
Published: September 2020

Safe and successful use of a drone requires careful preparation, planning and practice. This includes full understanding of: (1) how to fly a drone and how the model being used works, (2) rules and regulations concerning drone use, (3) hazards and what to do in an emergency, (4) how to prepare and plan a flight and (5) how to keep a drone airworthy. We present procedures for what to do before, during and after a flight. In common with other industries in which safety and good performance are critical, it is advised that drone operators follow checklists, and examples of such checklists are provided.
Treatment of the amalgam tattoo in the esthetic zone
Authors: Mathews David P.
Published: September 2020

Objective

When pigmentations appeared in the esthetic zone and were visible during the patient's smile, they were very disconcerting. There are multiple techniques to eradicate or ameliorate these discolorations. This article will address those pigmentations caused by amalgam particles.

Clinical considerations

Keratinized gingival grafts were used to cover and mask these pigmentations. In addition, connective tissue grafts were used to aid in the elimination of the external pigmentation.

Conclusions

Both techniques were shown to be very effective in masking or eliminating these unesthetic pigmentations. Long‐term follow‐up has shown these results to be stable with no recurrence of the pigmentation.

Clinical significance

Unesthetic pigmentations in the esthetic zone that are visible during a patient's smile are very disconcerting. Elimination of these unesthetic discolorations can make a dramatic improvement in the patient's smile.
COMMENTSComment on: Advance Care Planning: Social Isolation Matters
Authors: Karppinen Helena , Öhman Hanna , Laakkonen Marja‐Liisa , Pitkälä Kaisu H.
Published: September 2020

See the Reply by Cudjoe et al.
Reply to Comment on: Advance Care Planning: Social Isolation Matters
Authors: Cudjoe Thomas K.M. , Boyd Cynthia M. , Wolff Jennifer L. , Roth David L.
Published: September 2020

This letter comments on the letter by Helena Karppinen
Leptin gene polymorphism (rs 7799039;G2548A) is associated with changes in lipid profile during a partial meal‐replacement hypocaloric diet
Authors: Primo D. , Izaola O. , de Luis D.
Published: September 2020

Background

Some studies have demonstrated a positive association of the rs7799039 genetic variant of the LEP gene with energy intake and metabolic parameters. The present study aimed to analyse the effects of the rs7799039 genetic variant of the LEP gene on metabolic parameters after weight loss secondary to a partial meal‐replacement (pMR) hypocaloric diet.

Methods

We conducted a non‐randomised, single‐treatment study in 122 obese subjects with body mass index (BMI) > 35 kg m–2. The subjects were treated with two intakes of a normocaloric hyperproteic formula during 12 weeks. Anthropometric parameters and biochemical profile were measured at basal time and after 12 weeks. The variant genetic variant (rs7799039) of the LEP gene was assessed by a real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

We recruited 122 subjects [26 GG (21.3%), 59 GA (29.5%) and 37 AA (30.3%)]. The mean (SD) age of the all group was 59.4 (6.3) years (range 45–63 years) and the mean (SD) BMI was 39.3 (2.8) kg m–2 (range 36.2–45.1 kg m–2). After the pMR hypocaloric diet, body weight, BMI, fat mass, waist circumference, fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance and blood pressure decreased in both genotypes. All of these improvements were similar in both genotypes. Moreover, after dietary intervention, only subjects without an A allele showed a significant improvement in triglycerides (GG versus GA + AA) [mean (SD) −15.3 (6.4) mg dL−1 versus −3.7 (4.3) mg dL−1: P = 0.02], total cholesterol [−25.0 (5.3) mg dL−1 versus −8.1 (3.5) mg dL−1: P = 0.02] and low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol [−20.7 (4.2) mg dL−1 versus −5.4 (2.3) mg dL−1: P = 0.01].

Conclusions

Subjects with an A allele of the rs7799039 variant in the LEPR gene showed a significant improvement in low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol and triglycerides levels after weight loss secondary to a pMR hypocaloric diet.
Effect of Cold Application on Bruising and Pain Following Heparin Subcutaneous Injection: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Mohammady Mina , Sadeghi Narges
Published: September 2020

Purpose

We performed this review systematically to assess the effect of cold application at the heparin subcutaneous injection site on incidence and size of bruising, hematoma, and pain intensity.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis were utilized as the study design.

Data Sources

To retrieve the relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to July 2019, the databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, TRIP, and Elmnet.ir were searched.

Review Methods

Those RCTs were selected in which the participants had received any type of heparin via subcutaneous injections at least once a day, as were those comparing the effect of cold application (i.e., moist or dry ice packs or vapocoolant spray) on injection sites with no interventions or placebos. The types of outcomes measured included pain intensity, bruising, and hematoma at injection sites. Furthermore, odds ratios (ORs) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were employed to measure the pooled data.

Results

A total of nine studies recruiting 896 patients with a mean age range of 37 to 62 years were ultimately included in this study. The findings revealed that eight studies had used low‐molecular‐weight heparin, but unfractionated heparin had been administered in one study. The quality of the studies was also assessed in seven domains. Overall, risk of bias in the included articles was low to moderate. Pooling data of six studies showed that the patients had experienced less pain intensity once cold had been applied at the heparin injection sites (MD = −1.67; 95% CI −3.03 to −0.31;p= .02; I2= 92%). Bruising had been correspondingly reported in eight and six studies in terms of size and incidence, respectively. In particular, the results had demonstrated no statistically significant difference between either group in terms of bruising size or incidence at 48 to 72 hr following heparin injection. Furthermore, hematoma incidence had been reported in two studies, and one trial had reported hematoma size only. The results had suggested that the patients had smaller hematomas (MD = −0.87; 95% CI −1.63 to −0.11;p= .03) and a lower incidence of hematomas (OR= 0.35; 95% CI 0.16 to 0.76;p= .008) in the cold application group 48 hr after injection.

Conclusions

The results of this systematic review and meta‐analysis showed that patients could experience less pain and fewer hematomas once the cold had been applied for 3 to 5 min at the injection sites before or after subcutaneous heparin administration. During this period, clinicians should also consider the patient's comfort; if some patients feel discomfort at the cold application site, the minimum possible time should be considered.

Clinical Reverence

This study’s results could be used as evidence for all hospitalized and outpatients who need to receive any form of heparin and may suffer from local complications of this medicine.
To sing the songs of pride: Creating an anthem of inclusion
Authors: Gorman Geraldine , Diehn Andrew , LeSure Naomi , Real Raquel
Published: September 2020

In this season of public health crises and profound social unrest, we can draw inspiration from those who survived hard times and celebrated the American spirit. Here three students in an accelerated nursing program, poised for graduation in the coming year, join their insights and observation on the challenges facing this country with that of the famed troubadour of the Great Depression, Woody Guthrie. As nurses and public health practitioners, we commit to anthems of inclusion and justice for all.
Exploring the Reaction Paths on the Potential Energy Surfaces of the S1 and T1 States in Methylenecyclopropane
Authors: Koseki Shiro , Haruta Mamoru , Sawada Nozomi , Asada Toshio
Published: September 2020

The reaction paths of methylenecyclopropane 1 on the potential energy surfaces (PESs) of the lowest triplet (T1) state and the lowest excited singlet (S1) state, as well as that of the ground state (S0), were explored by using the nudged elastic band method at the MRMP2//MCSCF/6‐31++G(d,p) and DFT(B3LYP)/6‐31++G(d,p) levels of theory. After vertical excitation of 1, three transition states on the PES of the lowest triplet state and one transition state on the S1 PES were found along the reaction path to produce a carbene, cyclobutylidene 2. All of these transition states are lower in energy than the S1 state produced by vertical excitation at the S0 energy minimum in 1. Fast transition is predicted to occur from the T1 state or from the S1 state to the S0 state due to strong spin‐orbit coupling or nonadiabatic coupling in the geometrical vicinity of 2. On the MRMP2 S0 PES, the energy barriers of 5.0, 10.3 and 13.5 kcal mol−1 were obtained for C migration reaction (backward reaction), 1,2‐H migration reaction to cyclobutene 3, and 1,3‐H migration reaction to bicyclopropane 4, respectively, started at 2. The introduction of phenyl groups makes the energy barriers smaller due to the π conjugation between the carbene center and phenyl groups.
Analyzing the effects of stochastic perturbation and fuzzy distance transformation on Wuhan urban growth simulation
Authors: Zhang Bin , Wang Haijun , He Sanwei , Xia Chang
Published: September 2020

Stochastic perturbation and fuzzy distance transformation (FDT) have been widely introduced into the derivation of transition rules to improve the simulation capability of urban cellular automata (CA) models. However, their effects on urban growth simulation have not been revealed. In this article, we compare their effects on urban growth simulation for the city of Wuhan by a sensitivity analysis of the simulation accuracy and simulated urban patterns. We reveal the relationship between the two components and propose an optimized stochastic variable to improve the simulation capability of urban CA models. The results show that the stochastic perturbation is the main factor affecting the simulation accuracy and simulated urban patterns of Wuhan, in that it significantly reduces the simulation accuracy and increases the degree of fragmentation and the proximity and shape complexity of the simulation results. In addition, the change caused by the stochastic perturbation increases with its intensity. Although FDT can restrain the effect of the stochastic perturbation, its inhibitory effect becomes negligible as the stochastic perturbation intensity increases. The optimized stochastic variable can significantly reduce the negative impact of the original stochastic variable, and its improvement is more obvious when the stochastic perturbation intensity is higher.
Phylogeny and biogeography of the oil‐collecting bee subgenus Centris (Wagenknechtia) (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Authors: Vivallo Felipe
Published: September 2020

Centris (Wagenknechtia) is the only subgenus of centridine bees that occurs almost exclusively in the Andean Region. This study investigates the monophyly of C. (Wagenknechtia) proposing a hypothesis for the relationships among its species using 42 morphological characters of adults. The analysis resulted in one most parsimonious tree corroborating the monophyly of this group of oil‐collecting bees, with the relationships among its species as follows: ((C. escomeli + C. moldenkei) (C. muralis (C. rhodophthalma + C. vardyorum) (C. cineraria + C. orellanai))). Based on these results plus available distributional records, a cladistic biogeographic analysis was performed. The resulting hypothesis of the relationships between the endemism areas in the Andean Region is as follows: (((Atacama–Puna) (Desert–Atacama–Puna)) ((Pampean–Chaco–Puna) ((Monte–Coquimban) (Coquimban (Patagonian–Valdivian Forest–Coquimban–Maule–Monte–Santiago–Magellanic Forest))))).
The transcription factor E2A activates multiple enhancers that drive
Rag
expression in developing T and B cells
Authors: Miyazaki Kazuko , Watanabe Hitomi , Yoshikawa Genki , Chen Kenian , Hidaka Reiko , Aitani Yuki , Osawa Kai , Takeda Rie , Ochi Yotaro , Tani-ichi Shizue , Uehata Takuya , Takeuchi Osamu , Ikuta Koichi , Ogawa Seishi , Kondoh Gen , Lin Yin C. , Ogata Hiroyuki , Miyazaki Masaki
Published: September 2020

Distinct enhancer modules drive expression of
Rag
genes during T and B cell development (see the related Focus by
Wang and Rothenberg
).
Immiscibility and the origin of ladder structures, mafic layering, and schlieren in plutons
Authors: Glazner Allen F. , Bartley John M. , Law Bryan S.
Published: September 2020

Granitic plutons worldwide contain ladder structures (LSs) that consist of nested trough-shaped layers alternating between mafic and felsic compositions. LSs and other forms of modal layering have been attributed to crystal accumulation, but their chemical trends differ greatly from those of cumulates and are discordant with chemical variations of their granitic hosts. Mafic layers reach extreme enrichments in transition metals, high-field-strength elements, and incompatible elements, and are extremely depleted in Si and Al. These geochemical characteristics are difficult to explain by crystal accumulation and conflict with sequences of phase appearance during crystallization. They are characteristic of liquid immiscibility, which is an accepted process in the genesis of tholeiitic and alkalic rocks. We propose that ladder structures and other forms of modal layering are markers of immiscibility in calc-alkaline granitic rocks.
Taking time to twist a continent—Multistage origin of the New Zealand orocline
Authors: Lamb S. , Mortimer N.
Published: September 2020

In New Zealand, a giant coherent “Z” shape is defined by several curvilinear pre-Cenozoic basement terranes that extend across Zealandia for >1500 km along strike. It is widely assumed that this curvature was the result of bending during the Neogene, which together with ∼450 km of dextral displacement on the Alpine fault accommodated a total of ∼750 km of dextral shear through the New Zealand plate boundary zone between the Australian and Pacific plates. This would make it a very simple form of orocline. In fact, we show that its development was surprisingly complex and protracted, with a composite origin. Its western and southern parts were bent as much as 70° in the Mesozoic. In the Late Cretaceous, the already bent terranes were offset sinistrally by ∼250 km along the cross-cutting proto–Alpine fault, which acted as a transform to the rift between East and West Antarctica. Since the Eocene, and after Zealandia had completely separated from Antarctica, the two sides of the Alpine fault have undergone 45° of relative plate rotation, further bending the terranes. However, the eastern part of what appears today to be the same oroclinal structure has been created entirely since the Eocene, and mainly during the Neogene phase of dextral shear through the plate boundary, with large-scale internal bending and shortening. We suggest that multistage and composite evolutions may be typical features of oroclines, which would be difficult to unravel without a rich tectonic and plate motion database, such as that available for the New Zealand region.