bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in DNA methylation patterns affect ripening time in Satsuma mandarin fruit
Authors: Chen Zhiyou , Zhao Ying , Jiang Dong , Xiang Suqiong , Li Jiana
Published: July 2019

Differences in DNA methylation patterns might lead to differences in fruit maturation time in the citrus Satsuma, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. Here, we explored the differences in methylation patterns during fruit ripening in Satsuma among 20 early‐ and late‐maturing Satsuma varieties and compared DNA methylation patterns in two Satsuma cultivars (Ooita wase and Aoshima unshiu) at different developmental stages using methylation‐sensitive fragment length polymorphism (MSAP) analysis. We cloned and sequenced DNA from different bands to identify differentially methylated genes involved in fruit ripening. The internal methylation of CCGG sequences occurred more frequently in the early‐maturing Satsuma cultivars (8.47%) than the late‐maturing cultivars (6.74%), whereas the external methylation of CCGG sequences occurred less frequently in the early‐maturing cultivars (24.98%) compared to the late‐maturing types (27.27%). Genes encoding the G protein α subunit and zinc‐binding protein of the histidine triad (HIT) family and two unknown genes homologous to expressed sequence tag (EST) sequences (CX052976.1 and CX071135.1) were found to be modified by methylation during the fruit ripening process. These findings suggest that DNA methylation might play important roles in regulating fruit ripening in Satsuma. Our results lay the foundation for analysing the molecular mechanism underlying fruit ripening in this important citrus crop.
Seizures in children with epilepsy and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Goker Zeynep , Yilmaz Arzu , Eraslan Ayse Nihal , Sivri Rukiye Colak , Aydin Rezzan
Published: July 2019

Background

Epilepsy is an important disorder that is sometimes accompanied by inattention problems. This study explored the features of seizures in children with epilepsy, with or without attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Methods

Between January 2017 and January 2018, data records of children with epilepsy aged 5–18 years admitted to hospital were retrospectively collected. SPSS 17.0 was used for analyses and P < 0.05 was accepted as significant.

Results

Of 301 patients with epilepsy, 32 of them had ADHD. Median age at diagnosis of epilepsy in the epilepsy + ADHD group was lower than in the epilepsy alone group (6 vs 8 years; z = −2.989, P = 0.003). The two groups were similar in terms of duration of epilepsy, seizure types and features of complicated versus non‐complicated epilepsy, number of anti‐epileptic drugs (AED) used (for all, P > 0.05). The epilepsy + ADHD group had a significantly higher prevalence of intellectual disability (31.3% vs 12.6%; χ2(1) = 7.9, P = 0.014) and specific learning disorder (12.5% vs 1.9%; χ2(1) = 11.1, P = 0.009) than the epilepsy alone group (χ2(1) = 11.1, P = 0.009). ADHD medication use was identified in 68.8% of children in the epilepsy + ADHD group.

Conclusion

Attention‐deficit–hyperactivity disorder was identified in 11.8% of 5–18‐year‐old children (32/301) with epilepsy in a 1 year period. ADHD is more frequent in children with epilepsy in childhood (5–11 years of age). Epilepsy diagnosis is more frequent in younger children with ADHD. Children with epilepsy and ADHD, also have a significantly higher prevalence of intellectual disability and specific learning disorder. Younger children diagnosed with epilepsy should be carefully monitored for ADHD.
Severe heart failure and the need for mechanical circulatory support and heart transplantation in pediatric patients with myocarditis: Results from the prospective multicenter registry “MYKKE”
Authors: Schubert Stephan , Opgen‐Rhein Bernd , Boehne Martin , Weigelt Annika , Wagner Robert , Müller Götz , Rentzsch Axel , zu Knyphausen Edzard , Fischer Marcus , Papakostas Konstantin , Wiegand Gesa , Ruf Bettina , Hannes Tobias , Reineker Katja , Kiski Daniela , Khalil Markus , Steinmetz Michael , Fischer Gunther , Pickardt Thomas , Klingel Karin , Messroghli Daniel R. , Degener Franziska ,   the MYKKE consortium
Published: July 2019

Myocarditis represents an important cause for acute heart failure. MYKKE, a prospective multicenter registry of pediatric patients with myocarditis, aims to gain knowledge on courses, diagnostics, and therapy of pediatric myocarditis. The role of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) in children with severe heart failure and myocarditis is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine characteristics and outcome of patients with severe heart failure requiring MCS and/or heart transplantation. The MYKKE cohort between September 2013 and 2016 was analyzed. A total of 195 patients were prospectively enrolled by 17 German hospitals. Twenty‐eight patients (14%) received MCS (median 1.5 years), more frequently in the youngest age group (0‐2 years) than in the older groups (P < 0.001; 2‐12 and 13‐18 years). In the MCS group, 50% received a VAD, 36% ECMO, and 14% both, with a survival rate of 79%. The weaning rate was 43% (12/28). Nine (32%) patients were transplanted, one had ongoing support, and six (21%) died. Histology was positive for myocarditis in 63% of the MCS group. Patients within the whole cohort with age <2 years and/or ejection fraction <30% had a significantly worse survival with high risk for MCS, transplantation, and death (P < 0.001). Myocarditis represents a life‐threatening disease with an overall mortality of 4.6% in this cohort. The fulminant form more often affected the youngest, leading to significantly higher rate of MCS, transplantation, and mortality. MCS represents an important and life‐saving therapeutic option in children with myocarditis with a weaning rate of 43%.
Telomere length regulators are activated in young men after pediatric kidney transplantation compared to healthy controls and survivors of childhood cancer—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Endén Kira , Tainio Juuso , Hou Mi , Suominen Anu , Pakarinen Mikko , Huang Tao , Söder Olle , Jalanko Hannu , Jahnukainen Kirsi , Jahnukainen Timo
Published: July 2019

Chronic diseases are known to cause premature aging and frailty. Data about telomere length and telomere length‐regulating proteins after pediatric KTx are scarce. Leukocyte telomere length and gene expression level of eight telomere‐binding proteins were analyzed in 20 KTx recipients, eight childhood NBL survivors, and nine healthy controls. The influence of key clinical parameters on telomere length and on regulators of telomere length was evaluated. The telomere length in the KTx recipients tended to be shorter (0.53 AU) than in the healthy controls (0.64 AU) but longer than in the NBL survivors (0.38 AU). There was no significant difference in telomere length between the NBL survivors and the KTx recipients (P = .110). The gene expression level of telomere length‐preserving protein RPA1 was significantly higher in the KTx recipients than among the NBL survivors or healthy controls, while the expression of TRF2 and the tumor suppressor gene p16 was significantly higher in the KTX recipients when compared to the controls. TRF2 and TIN2 correlated significantly with hsCRP; additionally, TRF2 showed significant correlation with plasma creatinine and eGFR. KTx recipients have near to normal telomere length, but they have significantly higher gene expression levels of telomere regulatory proteins compared with healthy controls, suggesting activation of mechanisms preserving telomere length among KTx recipients. Our results suggest that declined graft function and consequent inflammatory response may have influence on telomerase activity.
The role of the social innovation and entrepreneurship development fund in fostering social entrepreneurship in Hong Kong: A study on public policy innovation
Authors: Chan Chee Hon , Chui Cheryl Hiu‐Kwan , Chan Kristy Shuk Ting , Yip Paul Siu Fai
Published: July 2019

Creating an enabling environment for social entrepreneurship in tackling complex socio‐economic challenges is at the forefront of government policy agendas globally. Although several policy mechanisms have been proposed to this end, whether and to what extent those policy mechanisms may (re)shape the social entrepreneurship environments have rarely been explored. By examining the Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Fund (SIE Fund), a recent policy project aimed at fostering social innovation in Hong Kong, this article presents a rare empirical exploration to illustrate how public policies can potentially drive social innovation. We explore first the impact of the SIE Fund in fostering innovation among its funded social enterprises, and second, how the SIE Fund may have influenced Hong Kong's social entrepreneurship environment. Results show that the projects under the SIE Fund exhibit characteristics distinct from the social enterprises prior to the inception of the SIE Fund. In addition, evidence of innovations in terms of product, process, marketing, and innovation in developing new or improved social practices were also identified. This study illustrates how specific public policy mechanisms may potentially facilitate the diversification, inclusion, innovation, and expansion of the social entrepreneurship environment. Findings carry substantial policy implications, in particular to neighbouring East Asian societies typically characterized by a strong government, and face similar structural, demographic and socio‐economic challenges that necessitate innovative solutions.
Well‐being for trainees caring for homeless veterans
Authors: Moore Elizabeth , Soh Michael , Stuber Margaret , Warde Carole
Published: July 2019

Background

Health care trainees caring for homeless patients may experience stress and burnout. Reasons for this include high rates of medical and psychiatric illness and complex social needs within this patient population. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and exhaustion among health care trainees. To address this, we developed a toolkit for trainees from multiple professions caring for homeless veterans and examined its impact on trainee well‐being.

Methods

Fifteen trainees and six faculty members participated in a half‐day workshop given by a national expert that demonstrated a variety of well‐being practices. Trainees and faculty members then identified 14 evidence‐based practices relevant to the clinic for inclusion in the well‐being toolkit. Half of the tools were for personal use and half were intended for teams. We developed simple graphics demonstrating each tool, and these were displayed as posters throughout the clinic. Tools were reviewed through workshops and handouts. To assess the trainee response to the toolkit, we used validated measures of burnout, stress, resilience and mindfulness at the beginning and at the end of the academic year. Trainees also rated the value of each tool.

Results

Trainees did not experience burnout during the year, and nor did the stress levels change. Both resilience and mindfulness trended towards improvement. Trainees rated the team‐based tools as more important than the personal tools; they were also more confident in using the team‐based tools.

Burnout among physicians caring for marginalised patients can originate from a sense of futility and from witnessing needless suffering

Discussion

Team‐based well‐being tools may represent a better avenue for residency programmes and training sites to pursue well‐being programmes, especially for trainees caring for marginalised populations.
An integrative longitudinal resilience curriculum
Authors: Kulman‐Lipsey Shayna , Yang Samantha , Pedram Javidan Arshia , Fung Benjamin , Levinson Andrea , Vernon Jordyn , Nickell Leslie , Leo Joanne
Published: July 2019

Background

It is well documented that student well‐being is challenged at medical school and that levels of distress increase as students navigate their training. The Doctor of Medicine (MD) programme at the University of Toronto developed a 4‐year resilience curriculum (RC) to encourage students to reach out for help and equip them with resilience‐building strategies to manage adversities in a demanding academic and clinical programme.

… resilience curriculum (RC) to encourage students to reach out for help and equip them with resilience‐building strategies

Methods

Satisfaction surveys, consisting of statements rated by a five‐point Likert scale and short‐answer questions, were distributed to 518 students; in total, data from four workshops were collected. Two focus groups comprising 12 participants in total were facilitated (n = 6 per group). A thematic content analysis was conducted for the focus group data; open coding was used for transcriptions via an iterative process and inductive analysis.

Findings

Preliminary quantitative and qualitative data suggest that students valued the curriculum. The main themes generated from the thematic content analysis were the value of the RC, the delivery of the RC, and developing a resilient community.

Discussion

More research must be conducted to assess whether the RC has affected student well‐being and resilience. The sustainability of the curriculum depends on the faculty members that support it; faculty development within the areas of wellness and resilience is imperative.

Innovation and implications

The RC, embedded in the core curriculum and integrated within a medical community, is gaining momentum and is valued by students. Further research will assist in the creation of an innovative tool to assess the impact of the RC on medical students.
The structural biology of the dynamin‐related proteins: New insights into a diverse, multitalented family
Authors: Ford Marijn G. J. , Chappie Joshua S.
Published: July 2019

Dynamin‐related proteins are multidomain, mechanochemical GTPases that self‐assemble and orchestrate a wide array of cellular processes. Over the past decade, structural insights from X‐ray crystallography and cryo‐electron microscopy have reshaped our mechanistic understanding of these proteins. Here, we provide a historical perspective on these advances that highlights the structural attributes of different dynamin family members and explores how these characteristics affect GTP hydrolysis, conformational coupling and oligomerization. We also discuss a number of lingering challenges remaining in the field that suggest future directions of study.
Canine ischaemic dermatopathy: a retrospective study of 177 cases (2005–2016)
Authors: Backel Katherine A. , Bradley Charles W. , Cain Christine L. , Morris Daniel O. , Goldschmidt Kyle H. , Mauldin Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2019

Background

Ischaemic dermatopathy encompasses a poorly understood subset of canine diseases that share similar clinical and histological features. Very little information is currently available regarding population characteristics, progression and outcome.

Hypothesis/objectives

This study aimed to describe the clinical features and therapeutic outcomes of ischaemia dermatopathy, excluding familial dermatomyositis, using cases diagnosed by histopathological analysis.

Animals

One hundred and seventy‐seven cases submitted for histopathological analysis between 2005 and 2016 met inclusion criteria, of which 93 had complete medical records available.

Methods and materials

Both records and pointed surveys were used to retrieve information. Scoring systems were created to subjectively evaluate clinical outcomes and likelihood of a vaccine association.

Results

Of 177 cases, toy and miniature poodles, Chihuahuas, Maltese, Yorkshire terriers and Jack Russell terriers were significantly over‐represented (P < 0.001). Of the 93 cases for which historical data were obtained, median age at skin biopsy was five years (0.42–13 years) and median body weight was 7.3 kg (range 1.32–50.3 kg). The condition in 45 dogs (48.3%) was found likely to be associated with vaccination. Younger ages (P = 0.011) and higher body weights (P = 0.003) were positively correlated with greater likelihood of vaccination. Body weight <10 kg (P = 0.0045) and older ages (P = 0.0048) were significantly associated with worse outcomes.

Conclusions and clinical importance

This study provides support for breed predispositions and identifies potential prognostic factors. Importantly, over half of the cases were considered unlikely to be vaccine‐associated, demonstrating the need to investigate other underlying causes of this condition.
Optical coherence tomography of the retina, nerve fiber layer, and optic nerve head in dogs with glaucoma
Authors: Graham Kathleen L. , McCowan Christina I. , Caruso Kelly , Billson F. Mark , Whittaker Cameron J. G. , White Andrew
Published: July 2019

Objective

To evaluate the retina and optic nerve head (ONH) in canine eyes predisposed to glaucoma using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Animals

Twenty‐five eyes (24 dogs).

Methods

Measures of peripapillary retinal, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), and ganglion cell complex (GCC) thickness and ONH parameters were obtained in vivo by OCT of the unaffected eye in dogs diagnosed with unilateral primary glaucoma (predisposed; n = 12) and compared with measures of healthy control eyes (normal; n = 13). Repeatability and intrarater reliability were explored using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC).

Results

Compared to normal eyes, predisposed eyes had a thinner retina in the temporal (P = 0.005), inferior quadrants (P = 0.003), and decreased inner retinal thickness (superior: P = 0.003, temporal: P = 0.001, inferior: P < 0.001, nasal: P = 0.001). Predisposed eyes had a thinner RNFL compared to normal eyes (P = 0.005), and when analyzed in quadrants, it was thinner in the superior (P < 0.001), temporal (P = 0.034), and nasal quadrants (P = 0.001). Repeatability (ICC 0.763‐0.835) and intrarater reliability (ICC 0.824‐0.942) were good to excellent for measures of retinal thickness and adequate for RNFL measurements (ICC 0.701‐0.798). Reliable measurements of optic disk area were obtained and were similar between groups (P = 0.597). Measurements of parameters relying on automated software detection (GCC, optic cup, optic rim) had inadequate repeatability and reliability.

Conclusion

Statistically significant differences in retinal and RNFL thicknesses were identified in normal and predisposed eyes. Reliable and consistent measurements of variables with manual adjustment of software detected parameters were obtained. Validation of OCT as a diagnostic tool for clinical assessment in canine glaucoma is warranted.
Growth traits of the exotic plant Hydrocotyle vulgaris and the evenness of resident plant communities are mediated by community age, not species diversity
Authors: Qin T‐J , Guan Y‐T , Quan H , Dong B‐C , Luo F‐L , Zhang M‐X , Li H‐L , Yu F‐H
Published: July 2019

Biological invasions are determined by interactions between resident plant communities and exotic plants. Time of invasion and species diversity of resident plant communities may greatly affect exotic plant invasions. We assembled low‐ and high‐diversity resident plant communities by sowing seeds of four and eight grassland species, respectively, and at each of three time periods (1, 4 and 7 weeks after sowing), the resident communities were invaded by Hydrocotyle vulgaris or not. We also constructed a plant community with H. vulgaris alone. Presence of H. vulgaris had no effect on biomass of the resident communities or biomass of each component species. Community age significantly affected biomass and evenness of the resident communities, and their competition with H. vulgaris, but the priority effect of the resident communities was slight. Increasing species richness did not change the interaction between H. vulgaris and the resident plant communities. These findings suggest a weaker competitive exclusionary effect of H. vulgaris on the resident communities with early germination, and H. vulgaris tended to have no significant impact on intact resident terrestrial plant communities. Thus, the potential risk of H. vulgaris invasion is low, especially in the communities with young age.
A review on different methods to increase the efficiency of mesenchymal stem cell‐based wound therapy
Authors: Shojaei Fereshteh , Rahmati Shima , Banitalebi Dehkordi Mehdi
Published: July 2019

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) accelerate wound healing but the harsh environment of wound site limits the engraftment, retention, and survival rate of transplanted cells. There are multiple approaches that amplify the therapeutic potential of MSCs. The MSCs derived from medical waste material, provide comparable regenerative abilities compared to traditional sources. The application of different scaffolds increases MSC delivery and migration into the wound. The spheroid culture of MSC increases the paracrine effects of the entrapped cells and the secretion of pro‐angiogenic and anti‐inflammatory cytokines. The MSC pretreating and preconditioning enhances the cell migration, proliferation, and survival rate, which lead to higher angiogenesis, re‐epithelialization, wound closure, and granulation tissue formation. Moreover, genetic modification has been performed in order to increase MSC angiogenesis, differentiation potential, as well as the cell life span. Herein, we review the results of aforementioned approaches and provide information accommodating to the continued development of MSC‐based wound therapy in the future.
Prevalence of foot ulcers in dialysis‐dependent patients
Authors: Brekelmans Wouter , Borger van der Burg Boudewijn L. S. , Vroom Michiel A. , Kreuger Marrigje J. , Schrander van der Meer Anita M. , Hoencamp Rigo
Published: July 2019

Hemodialysis patients are at high risk for foot ulceration. The aim of this prospective study was to describe the prevalence and risk factors for foot ulcers in hemodialysis‐dependent patients. From 2012 until 2015, all hemodialysis patients (n = 66) above18 years of age, treated at the Alrijne Hospital (Leiderdorp, the Netherlands), were included. Demographics and medical history were collected and the quality of life was measured. Data were collected on common risk factors for foot ulceration: peripheral arterial disease, peripheral neuropathy with or without foot deformities, diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, smoking, previous foot ulcer, edema, pedicure attendance, and orthopedic footwear. Sixty‐six hemodialysis patients were evaluated; the prevalence of foot ulcer was 21/66 (31.8%). Risk factors were history of foot ulceration in 27/66 (40.9%), ankle‐brachial index (ABI) <0.9, and toe pressure < 80 mmHg in 38/66 (57.6%). The percentage of DM in the group of foot‐ulcers was higher 13/21 (61.9%) vs. 20/45 (44.4%) in the non‐ulcer group, this was not significant (p = 0.183). No differences were found in ABI, toe pressure, peripheral neuropathy and foot deformity, between the DM and non DM group. The mortality between ulcer vs. no ulcer was significant different: 13/21 (61.9%) vs. 11/45 (24.4%) (p = 0.003). Approximately, one‐third of hemodialysis patient have a foot ulcer 21/66 (32%). Arterial insufficiency is associated with an increased risk of foot ulcers. In patients with a foot ulcer, survival is significantly lower than in patients without a foot ulcer; interventions to reduce foot ulceration should be implemented for all hemodialysis patients and include frequent inspection, and prompt treatment. Further research should focus on the prevention of foot ulcers in dialysis‐dependent patients.
Effectiveness of adjusting radiographic technique parameters on image quality in direct digital radiography: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Steffensen Caitlin , Trypis Gregory , Mander Gordon T.W. , Munn Zachary
Published: July 2019

Objective:

The purpose of this review is to investigate the effectiveness of adjusting radiographic technique parameters on image quality of projectional radiographs acquired on a direct digital radiography system.

Introduction:

Projectional radiography performed with direct digital detectors is now commonplace in many medical imaging departments across the world. While the acquisition technology has advanced, it appears that many sites have not optimized their radiographic technique factors for this new technology. The aim of this review is to uncover evidence to support the continued use of these traditional technique parameters or to suggest changes in clinical practice that would produce optimized results.

Inclusion criteria:

The review will consider studies that include projectional radiographs acquired on a direct digital radiography system of the axial and appendicular skeleton. Only studies that investigate a human subject (living or post-mortem), or an anthropomorphic phantom will be included. Studies that directly investigate the effect of changing a technique parameter on the resultant image quality and the effect on patient dose will be included.

Methods:

A comprehensive search of both published and unpublished literature will be performed to uncover studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Studies will be screened for inclusion by two reviewers and disagreements resolved through discussion or with a third reviewer. Studies included in final analysis will be critically appraised for methodological quality. Data will be extracted by a single reviewer and checked by the author team for accuracy. Statistical meta-analysis and subgroup analyses will be performed as appropriate, and a Summary of Findings created.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42019137806
Non-pharmacological interventions used during the perioperative period to prevent anxiety in adolescents: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Pestana-Santos Marcia , Santos Margarida Reis , Cardoso Daniela , Lomba Lurdes
Published: July 2019

Objective:

The objective of this review is to map the range of non-pharmacological interventions used during the perioperative period to prevent anxiety in adolescents.

Introduction:

Evidence shows that 80% of adolescents report having experienced significant anxiety in the perioperative period. Non-pharmacological interventions implemented in the perioperative period are recommended as a resource to help to control anticipatory, separation and perioperative anxiety and fear related to surgical procedures in adolescents.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider studies that focus on adolescents aged 10 to 19 who have undergone a surgical procedure, regardless of the type of surgery, and participated in non-pharmacological interventions aimed to prevent anxiety in the perioperative period. The intervention may be provided by any healthcare professional. Studies related to non-pharmacological interventions associated with hospitalization in a non-surgical context will be excluded.

Methods:

The methodology will follow the JBI recommendations for scoping reviews. Any published and unpublished sources of information will be considered. Studies published in English, Spanish and Portuguese will be included, with no geographical or cultural limitations. Duplicates will be removed and two independent reviewers will screen the abstracts and assess the full text of selected studies, based on the inclusion criteria. The results of study selection will be presented in a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) flow diagram for scoping reviews. Data synthesis will be presented in a narrative summary to provide a description of the existing evidence.
Interprofessional team-based primary health care for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Bobbette Nicole , Donnelly Catherine , Ufholz Lee-Anne , Duggan Jane , Weatherbed Emily
Published: July 2019

Objective:

This review aims to examine the state of the evidence for interprofessional team-based primary health care for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Introduction:

Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have complex health needs, as well as experience health service inequities. Interprofessional primary healthcare teams offer access to comprehensive primary health care and are recommended as an approach to improve the health of this population. At present, limited information is available regarding what services interprofessional primary healthcare teams provide and how services are evaluated specific to the care of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider all studies that reference individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are 18 years and over. It will consider all studies that refer to interprofessional healthcare provision within a primary healthcare team context. Interprofessional care is the term that will be used to describe services provided by interprofessional health providers (e.g. nurses, dietitians, social workers) in these teams. Work completed by physicians and nurses within traditional general practices will be excluded.

Methods:

This review will be conducted according to the JBI methodology for scoping reviews. It will consider quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods study designs for inclusion. In addition, systematic reviews, program descriptions, clinical reviews and opinion papers will be considered. The review will consider all studies published since 2000 in English or French. All duplicates will be removed from identified citations. A data extraction tool will assist reviewers to identify and synthesize findings from selected papers.
Rosa caninaL. methanolic extract prevents heat stress‐induced memory dysfunction in rats
Authors: Erfani Marjan , Ghazi Tabatabaei Zohreh , Sadigh‐Eteghad Saeed , Farokhi‐Sisakht Fatemeh , Farajdokht Fereshteh , Mahmoudi Javad , Karimi Pouran , Nasrolahi Ava
Published: July 2019

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Heat stress has harmful effects on the brain structure and synaptic density via induction of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, which result in neuronal damage in the hippocampus and thereby cognitive impairments. In this study, we investigate the effect ofRosa caninatreatment on cognitive function in heat stress‐exposed rats and its underlying mechanisms.

What is the main finding and its importance?

We show thatR. caninaimproves cognitive deficits induced by heat stress by attenuation of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation and by upregulation of synaptic proteins in the hippocampus.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of aqueous methanolic extract ofRosa canina(RC) dried fruits on oxidative stress, inflammation, synaptic degeneration and memory dysfunction induced by heat stress (HS) in rats. Sixty adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups as follows: the control group received normal saline (NS); the HS group was exposed to heat stress (43°C) for 15 min once a day for 2 weeks; and HS+R groups were exposed to heat stress and received one of three doses (250, 500 or 1000 mg kg−1) of RC methanolic extract for 2 weeks. A passive avoidance test and a Y‐maze test were performed to assess learning and memory. The levels of reactive oxygen species were assessed. The serum cortisol concentration and hippocampal total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were also detected using spectrophotometry. The protein expressions of c‐Fos, heat‐shock protein‐70, tumour necrosis factor‐α, growth‐associated protein 43, post‐synaptic density‐95 and synaptophysin were evaluated in the hippocampal tissue. The results showed that RC significantly improved cognitive dysfunction induced by HS, which was accompanied by downregulation of tumour necrosis factor‐α and upregulation of growth‐associated protein 43 and synaptophysin proteins in the hippocampus of HS‐exposed rats. Furthermore, RC significantly attenuated serum cortisol concentrations and upregulated heat shock protein‐70 and c‐Fos in the hippocampus. In addition, the administration of RC attenuated reactive oxygen species levels and enhanced antioxidant defense in the hippocampus. These findings indicate that RC attenuated the deleterious effect of HS on cognition through its antioxidant properties and by enhancing synaptic function and plasticity.
Oil Recovery Mechanisms During Sequential Injection of Chelating Agent Solutions Into Carbonate Rocks
Authors: Hassan Amjed M. , Al-Hashim Hasan S.
Published: July 2019

Chelating agent solutions have been proposed as effective fluids for enhancing oil production. Different recovery mechanisms are reported for increasing the oil recovery during chelating agent flooding. The aims of this work are to identify the possible recovery mechanisms during chelating agent flooding in carbonate reservoirs and to investigate the in situ CO2 generation as a potential recovery mechanism during the injection of chelating agent solutions into carbonate reservoirs. The contribution of CO2 on enhancing the oil recovery was determined using experimental measurements and analytical calculations. Several measurements were conducted to study the contribution of each mechanism on enhancing the oil recovery. Coreflooding tests, zeta potential measurements, CO2 generation, and interfacial tension (IFT) experiments were carried out. Also, analytical models were utilized to determine the impact of the injected chemicals on reducing the capillary pressure and improving the flow conditions. In flooding tests, two chemicals (EDTA and GLDA) were injected in a sequential mode and the chemical concentration was increased gradually. In addition, a comparative study was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of EDTA and GLDA solutions to enhance oil recovery. Several parameters were investigated in this paper including incremental oil recovery, in situ CO2 generation, hydrocarbon swelling, IFT, wettability alteration, permeability enhancement, productivity index, and chemical cost. The obtained results show that GLDA chelating agent has better performance than EDTA solutions for enhancing the oil recovery when the same concentrations are used. Also, the in situ generation of CO2 shows a significant impact on improving the oil recovery from carbonate reservoirs during chelating agent flooding. In the literature, the reported recovery mechanisms of using chelating agents are the IFT reduction, wettability alteration, and rock dissolution. Based on this work, injecting chelating agent solutions at low pH can lead to involve additional recovery mechanisms due to the CO2 generation, the additional mechanisms are hydrocarbon swelling, viscosity and density reduction, and oil vaporization.
A uniform circular array of isotropic sensors that stochastically dislocate in three dimensions—The hybrid Cramér-Rao bound of direction-of-arrival estimation
Authors: Wong Kainam Thomas , Morris Zakayo Ndiku , Kitavi Dominic Makaa , Lin Tsair-Chuan
Published: July 2019

An array's constituent sensors could be spatially dislocated from their nominal positions. This paper investigates how such sensor dislocation would degrade a uniform circular array (UCA) of isotropic sensors (like pressure sensors) in their direction-finding precision. This paper analytically derives this direction finding's hybrid Cramér-Rao bound (HCRB) in a closed form that is expressed explicitly in terms of the sensors' dislocation parameters. In the open literature on UCA direction finding, this paper is the first to be three-dimensional in modeling the sensors' dislocation. Perhaps unexpectedly to some readers, sensor dislocation could improve and not necessarily degrade the HCRB; these opposing effects depend on the dislocation variances, the incident source's arrival angle, and the signal-to-noise power ratio—all analyzed rigorously in this paper. Interesting insights are thereby obtained: (a) The HCRB is enhanced for the impinging source's polar arrival angle as the sensors become more dislocated along the impinging wavefront due to aperture enlargement over the stochastic dislocation's probability space. (b) Likewise, the HCRB is improved for the azimuth arrival angle as the sensors become more dislocated on the circular array's plane, also due to aperture enlargement. (c) In contrast, sensor dislocation along the incident signal's propagation direction can only worsen the HRCBs due to nuisance-parameter effects in the Fisher information. (d) Sensor dislocation orthogonal to the array plane must degrade the HCRB for the azimuth arrival angle but could improve the HCRB for the polar arrival angle.
Distinct conducting layer edge states in two-dimensional (2D) halide perovskite
Authors: Wang Kai , Wu Congcong , Jiang Yuanyuan , Yang Dong , Wang Ke , Priya Shashank
Published: July 2019

Distinct layer edge currents among the insulating terrace regions were observed in 2D perovskite MQWs.
Leaf-inspired multiresponsive MXene-based actuator for programmable smart devices
Authors: Cai Guofa , Ciou Jing-Hao , Liu Yizhi , Jiang Yi , Lee Pooi See
Published: July 2019

An unprecedented MXene-based actuator was developed, which mimicked the sophisticated leaf structure and its functionality.
Shewanella decolorationis LDS1 Chromate Resistance
Authors: Lemaire Olivier N. , Honoré Flora A. , Tempel Sébastien , Fortier Emma M. , Leimkühler Silke , Méjean Vincent , Iobbi-Nivol Chantal
Published: July 2019

Shewanella
species have long been described as interesting microorganisms in regard to their ability to reduce many organic and inorganic compounds, including metals. However, members of the
Shewanella
genus are often depicted as cold-water microorganisms, although their optimal growth temperature usually ranges from 25 to 28°C under laboratory growth conditions.
Shewanella decolorationis
LDS1 is highly attractive, since its metabolism allows it to develop efficiently at temperatures from 24 to 40°C, conserving its ability to respire alternative substrates and to reduce toxic compounds such as chromate or toxic dyes. Our results clearly indicate that this novel strain has the potential to be a powerful tool for bioremediation and unveil one of the mechanisms involved in its chromate resistance.
Clostridioides difficile Whole-Genome Sequencing Reveals Limited Within-Host Genetic Diversity in a Pediatric Cohort
Authors: Balaji Aakash , Ozer Egon A. , Kociolek Larry K.
Published: July 2019

Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is a highly sensitive method for identifying genetic relatedness and transmission of
Clostridioides difficile
strains. Previous studies suggest that as few as 3 core genome single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) discriminate between genetically distinct isolates. Because a single
C. difficile
colony is selected from culture for WGS, significant within-host genetic diversity could preclude identification of transmission events.
Antimycobacterial Susceptibility Testing of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria
Authors: Brown-Elliott Barbara A. , Woods Gail L.
Published: July 2019

Recommendations for first-line and second-line drug testing and organism group, specific methodologies, and reporting recommendations have been addressed by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and are important in the selection of appropriate antimicrobial treatment regimens for nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) disease.
Differential Dynamics of Regulatory T-Cell and Th17 Cell Balance in Mesenteric Lymph Nodes and Blood following Early Antiretroviral Initiation during Acute Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Yero Alexis , Farnos Omar , Rabezanahary Henintsoa , Racine Gina , Estaquier Jérôme , Jenabian Mohammad-Ali
Published: July 2019

Tregs contribute to SIV/HIV disease progression by inhibition of antiviral specific responses and effector T-cell proliferation. Tregs also cause tissue fibrosis via transforming growth factor β1 production and collagen deposition, which are associated with microbial translocation and generalized immune activation. Early ARV initiation upon viral exposure is recommended globally and results in improved immune function recovery and reduced viral persistence. Here, using an acute SIV infection model of rhesus macaques, we demonstrated for the first time that despite clear improvements in mucosal CD4 T cells, in contrast to blood, Treg frequencies in MLNs remained elevated following early ARV initiation. The particular Th17/Treg balance observed in MLNs can contribute, in part, to the maintenance of mucosal fibrosis during suppressive ARV treatment. Our results provide a better understanding of gut mucosal immune dynamics following early ARV initiation. These findings suggest that Treg-based treatments could serve as a novel immunotherapeutic approach to decrease gut mucosal damage during SIV/HIV infections.
An Interaction with PARP-1 and Inhibition of Parylation Contribute to Attenuation of DNA Damage Signaling by the Adenovirus E4orf4 Protein
Authors: Nebenzahl-Sharon Keren , Sharf Rakefet , Amer Jana , Shalata Hassan , Khoury-Haddad Hanan , Sohn Sook-Young , Ayoub Nabieh , Hearing Patrick , Kleinberger Tamar
Published: July 2019

Replication intermediates and ends of viral DNA genomes can be recognized by the cellular DNA damage response (DDR) network as DNA damage whose repair may lead to inhibition of virus replication. Therefore, many viruses evolved mechanisms to inhibit the DDR network. We have previously shown that the adenovirus (Ad) E4orf4 protein inhibits DDR signaling, but the mechanisms were not identified. Here, we describe an association of E4orf4 with the DNA damage sensor poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1). E4orf4 reduces phosphorylation of this enzyme and inhibits its activity. PARP-1 inhibition assists E4orf4 in reducing Ad-induced DDR signaling and improves the efficiency of virus replication. Furthermore, the ability of E4orf4, when expressed alone, to accumulate at DNA damage sites and to kill cancer cells is attenuated by chemical inhibition of PARP-1. Our results indicate that the E4orf4–PARP-1 interaction has an important role in Ad replication and in promotion of E4orf4-induced cancer-selective cell death.
Immunology ofMycobacterium tuberculosisInfections
Authors: Sia Jonathan Kevin , Rengarajan Jyothi
Published: July 2019

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious global public health challenge that results in significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. TB is caused by infection with the bacilliMycobacterium tuberculosis(M. tuberculosis), which has evolved a wide variety of strategies in order to thrive within its host. Understanding the complex interactions betweenM. tuberculosisand host immunity can inform the rational design of better TB vaccines and therapeutics. This chapter covers innate and adaptive immunity againstM. tuberculosisinfection, including insights on bacterial immune evasion and subversion garnered from animal models of infection and human studies. In addition, this chapter discusses the immunology of the TB granuloma, TB diagnostics, and TB comorbidities. Finally, this chapter provides a broad overview of the current TB vaccine pipeline.
Pathogenicity of Enterococci
Authors: Fiore Elizabeth , Van Tyne Daria , Gilmore Michael S.
Published: July 2019

Enterococci are unusually well adapted for survival and persistence in a variety of adverse environments, including on inanimate surfaces in the hospital environment and at sites of infection. This intrinsic ruggedness undoubtedly played a role in providing opportunities for enterococci to interact with other overtly drug-resistant microbes and acquire additional resistances on mobile elements. The rapid rise of antimicrobial resistance among hospital-adapted enterococci has rendered hospital-acquired infections a leading therapeutic challenge. With about a quarter of a genome of additional DNA conveyed by mobile elements, there are undoubtedly many more properties that have been acquired that help enterococci persist and spread in the hospital setting and cause diseases that have yet to be defined. Much remains to be learned about these ancient and rugged microbes, particularly in the area of pathogenic mechanisms involved with human diseases.
Interpreting large detrital geochronology data sets in retroarc foreland basins: An example from the Magallanes-Austral Basin, southernmost Patagonia
Authors: Sickmann Zachary T. , Schwartz Theresa M. , Malkowski Matthew A. , Dobbs Stephen C. , Graham Stephan A.
Published: July 2019

The Magallanes-Austral retroarc foreland basin of southernmost South America presents an excellent setting in which to examine interpretive methods for large detrital zircon data sets. The source regions for retroarc foreland basins generally, and the Magallanes-Austral Basin specifically, can be broadly divided into (1) the magmatic arc, (2) the fold-and-thrust belt, and (3) sources around the periphery of foreland flexural subsidence. In this study, we used an extensive detrital zircon data set (30 new, 87 previously published samples) that is complemented by a large modal provenance data set of 183 sandstone petrography samples (32 new, 151 previously published) and rare earth element geochemical analyses (130 previously published samples) to compare the results of empirical (multidimensional scaling) and interpretive (age binning based on source regions) treatments of detrital zircon data, ultimately to interpret the detailed evolution of sediment dispersal patterns and their tectonic controls in the Magallanes-Austral Basin. Detrital zircon sample groupings based on both a priori age binning and multidimensional scaling are required to maximize the potential of the Magallanes-Austral Basin data set. Multidimensional scaling results are sensitive to differences in major unimodal arc-related U-Pb detrital zircon ages and less sensitive to differences in multimodal, thrust belt–related age peaks. These sensitivities complicate basin-scale interpretations when data from poorly understood, less densely sampled sectors are compared to data from better-understood, more densely sampled sectors. Source region age binning alleviates these biases and compares well with multidimensional scaling results when samples from the less well-understood southern basin sector are excluded. Sample groupings generated by both multidimensional scaling and interpretive methods are also compatible with compositional provenance data. Together, this integration of provenance data and methods facilitates a detailed interpretation of sediment dispersal patterns and their tectonic controls for the Late Cretaceous to Eocene fill of the Magallanes-Austral retroarc foreland basin. We interpret that provenance signatures and dispersal patterns during the retroarc foreland phase were fundamentally controlled by conditions set by a predecessor extensional basin phase, including (1) variable magnitude of extension with latitude, (2) the composition of lithologies emplaced on the antecedent western flank, and (3) long-lasting structural discontinuities associated with early rifting that may have partitioned dispersal systems or controlled the location of long-lived drainage networks.