bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A guide to visualizing the spatial epigenome with super‐resolution microscopy
Authors: Xu Jianquan , Liu Yang
Published: May 2019

Genomic DNA in eukaryotic cells is tightly compacted with histone proteins into nucleosomes, which are further packaged into the higher‐order chromatin structure. The physical structuring of chromatin is highly dynamic and regulated by a large number of epigenetic modifications in response to various environmental exposures, both in normal development and pathological processes such as aging and cancer. Higher‐order chromatin structure has been indirectly inferred by conventional bulk biochemical assays on cell populations, which do not allow direct visualization of the spatial information of epigenomics (referred to as spatial epigenomics). With recent advances in super‐resolution microscopy, the higher‐order chromatin structure can now be visualized in vivo at an unprecedent resolution. This opens up new opportunities to study physical compaction of 3D chromatin structure in single cells, maintaining a well‐preserved spatial context of tissue microenvironment. This review discusses the recent application of super‐resolution fluorescence microscopy to investigate the higher‐order chromatin structure of different epigenomic states. We also envision the synergistic integration of super‐resolution microscopy and high‐throughput genomic technologies for the analysis of spatial epigenomics to fully understand the genome function in normal biological processes and diseases.
Chlorophyll fluorometry sheds light on the role of desiccation resistance for vegetative overland dispersal of aquatic plants
Authors: Heidbüchel Patrick , Jahns Peter , Hussner Andreas
Published: May 2019

Submerged aquatic plant species predominantly spread through vegetative propagules, particularly shoot fragments. While it is known that the successful establishment of fragments in isolated water bodies is largely determined by retention of fragment viability during overland transport (i.e. desiccation resistance), detailed information on species‐specific desiccation resistance is still scarce and the underlying mechanisms remain uncharted.

We combined measurements of chlorophyll a fluorescence (Fv/Fm: maximum quantum yield of photosystem II) with determination of water loss and post‐desiccation survival and regeneration to examine the desiccation resistance of shoot fragments without and with apical tips for six submerged aquatic plant species (Myriophyllum spicatum, Myriophyllum heterophyllum, Ceratophyllum demersum, Lagarosiphon major, Elodea canadensis, Hydrilla verticillata).

Overall, the relationship between Fv/Fm and relative water loss was nonlinear, and a decrease in Fv/Fm was significantly related to reduced fragment survival and regeneration. We determined an overall critical minimum of 0.40 in Fv/Fm and a critical maximum of 84% in water loss for regeneration. Differences in the relationships between water loss and desiccation time and between Fv/Fm and water loss were species‐specific rather than fragment type‐specific. Plant fragments of M. spicatum (fragments without apices excluded), M. heterophyllum, and C. demersum maintained a high Fv/Fm even after losing a large proportion of the initial water content, while the Fv/Fm for L. major, E. canadensis, and H. verticillata decreased more rapidly with advancing water loss.

Maintaining the function of the photosynthetic apparatus at high water loss can prolong fragment viability during overland transport. Our results suggest that aquatic plants have species‐specific mechanisms to cope with water deficit. Measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence can precisely predict the likelihood of fragment regeneration and constitute a useful tool to assess the spread potential of aquatic plants.
Scavenging in the Anthropocene: Human impact drives vertebrate scavenger species richness at a global scale
Authors: Sebastián‐González Esther , Barbosa Jomar Magalhães , Pérez‐García Juan M. , Morales‐Reyes Zebensui , Botella Francisco , Olea Pedro P. , Mateo‐Tomás Patricia , Moleón Marcos , Hiraldo Fernando , Arrondo Eneko , Donázar José A. , Cortés‐Avizanda Ainara , Selva Nuria , Lambertucci Sergio A. , Bhattacharjee Aishwarya , Brewer Alexis , Anadón José D. , Abernethy Erin , Rhodes Olin E. , Turner Kelsey , Beasley James C. , DeVault Travis L. , Ordiz Andrés , Wikenros Camilla , Zimmermann Barbara , Wabakken Petter , Wilmers Christopher C. , Smith Justine A. , Kendall Corinne J. , Ogada Darcy , Buechley Evan R. , Frehner Ethan , Allen Maximilian L. , Wittmer Heiko U. , Butler James R. A. , du Toit Johan T. , Read John , Wilson David , Jerina Klemen , Krofel Miha , Kostecke Rich , Inger Richard , Samson Arockianathan , Naves‐Alegre Lara , Sánchez‐Zapata José A.
Published: May 2019

Understanding the distribution of biodiversity across the Earth is one of the most challenging questions in biology. Much research has been directed at explaining the species latitudinal pattern showing that communities are richer in tropical areas; however, despite decades of research, a general consensus has not yet emerged. In addition, global biodiversity patterns are being rapidly altered by human activities. Here, we aim to describe large‐scale patterns of species richness and diversity in terrestrial vertebrate scavenger (carrion‐consuming) assemblages, which provide key ecosystem functions and services. We used a worldwide dataset comprising 43 sites, where vertebrate scavenger assemblages were identified using 2,485 carcasses monitored between 1991 and 2018. First, we evaluated how scavenger richness (number of species) and diversity (Shannon diversity index) varied among seasons (cold vs. warm, wet vs. dry). Then, we studied the potential effects of human impact and a set of macroecological variables related to climatic conditions on the scavenger assemblages. Vertebrate scavenger richness ranged from species‐poor to species rich assemblages (4–30 species). Both scavenger richness and diversity also showed some seasonal variation. However, in general, climatic variables did not drive latitudinal patterns, as scavenger richness and diversity were not affected by temperature or rainfall. Rainfall seasonality slightly increased the number of species in the community, but its effect was weak. Instead, the human impact index included in our study was the main predictor of scavenger richness. Scavenger assemblages in highly human‐impacted areas sustained the smallest number of scavenger species, suggesting human activity may be overriding other macroecological processes in shaping scavenger communities. Our results highlight the effect of human impact at a global scale. As species‐rich assemblages tend to be more functional, we warn about possible reductions in ecosystem functions and the services provided by scavengers in human‐dominated landscapes in the Anthropocene.
Are fire services ‘extremely gendered’ organizations? Examining the Country Fire Authority (CFA) in Australia
Authors: Tyler Meagan , Carson Lisa , Reynolds Benjamin
Published: May 2019

Emergency management organizations often have military‐based histories and continue to maintain militaristic styles of operation. Similar to the military, these organizations tend to be male dominated and culturally masculinized. The militarization and masculinization of rural fire services in Australia are generally unrecognized but highly important elements defining these organizations, and the example of the Country Fire Authority (CFA) is considered here. Using a cultural artefacts approach, historical and contemporary elements of the CFA's structure and practice are analysed using the concept of an ‘extremely gendered’ organization, with a focus on how the CFA is structurally and culturally gendered. We argue there is value in expanding the notion of ‘extremely gendered’ institutions beyond the military, to include other militarized organizations. Doing so not only helps to better understand and address resistance to change and gender equality measures, it also draws attention to the important role that such organizations play in the greater patriarchal order.
Health‐care professionals’ experiences of patient participation among older patients in intermediate care—At the intersection between profession, market and bureaucracy
Authors: Kvæl Linda Aimée Hartford , Debesay Jonas , Bye Asta , Bergland Astrid
Published: May 2019

Background

Patient participation is a key concern in health care. Nevertheless, older patients often do not feel involved in their rehabilitation process. Research states that when organizational conditions exert pressure on the work situation, care as a mere technical activity seems to be prioritized by the health‐care staff, at the expense of patient involvement.

Objective

The aim of this article is to explore how health‐care professionals experience patient participation in IC services, and explain how they perform their clinical work balancing between the patient's needs, available resources and regulatory constraints.

Design

Using a framework of professional work and institutional logics, underpinned by critical realism, we conducted semi‐structured interviews with 18 health‐care professionals from three IC institutions.

Results

IC appears as an important service in the patient pathway for older people with a great potential for patient participation. However, health care staff may experience constraints that prohibit them from using professional discretion, which is perceived as a threat to patient participation. Further, they may adopt routines that simplify their interactions with patients. Our results call for more emphasis on an individualized rehabilitation process and a recognition that psychological and social aspects are critical for patient participation in IC.

Conclusion

Patients interact in the face of conflicting institutional priorities or protocols. The study adds important knowledge about the practice of patient participation in IC from a front‐line provider perspective. Underlying mechanisms are identified to understand and recommend how to facilitate patient participation at different levels in narrowing the gap between policy and clinical work in IC.
Evaluation of two shaping systems and two sonic irrigation devices in removing root canal filling material from distal roots of mandibular molars assessed by micro CT
Authors: Kaloustian M. K. , Nehme W. , El Hachem C. , Zogheib C. , Ghosn N. , Mallet J. P. , Diemer F. , Naaman A.
Published: May 2019

Aim

To compare two preparation systems and two sonic irrigation devices during the removal of root filling material from oval distal canals of extracted mandibular molars.

Methodology

The distal canals in 40 extracted mandibular molars were shaped using the ProTaper Next system (Dentslpy Sirona, Ballaigues, Switzerland), filled with Gutta Percha X2 (Dentsply Sirona), along with AH Plus sealer (Dentsply De Trey, Konstanz, Germany) and randomly divided into two groups (n = 20) according to volume of initial filling, preparation diameter and working length. One group was retreated using the Reciproc system (VDW, Munich, Germany), and the other using the 2Shape system (Micro‐Mega, Besançon, France). A micro‐CT scan was taken after the initial root filling and after retreatment to evaluate the volume of filling material remnants. The teeth were divided into four groups to test the supplementary effect of two sonic irrigation devices on removing filling material: Eddy (VDW) and MM1500 (Micro‐Mega). In the first and second groups, 2Shape was followed subsequently by MM1500 and Eddy; in the third and fourth groups, Reciproc was followed by MM1500 and Eddy. A third micro‐CT was taken to compare the remaining root filling material in all groups. Wilcoxon's signed rank tests, Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results

No significant difference was found for the volume of filling material removed between the Reciproc and 2Shape in the entire canal (P = 0.355). The volume dropped significantly from its initial value after removing the bulk of the root filling by 95.8% (from 4.71 to 0.22 mm3) with the 2Shape (P < 0.001) and by 94.0% (from 5.05 to 0.33 mm3) with the Reciproc (P < 0.001). Sonic activation significantly decreased the residual volume of filling material remnants by 3.21% (P = 0.013) in the first group, 1.38% (P = 0.012) in the second group, 1.83% (P = 0.008) in the third group and 1.83% (P = 0.012) in the fourth group. At the end, the percentage of residual material was not significantly different among the groups in the entire canal (P = 0.163).

Conclusion

In the distal oval canals of extracted mandibular molar teeth, there was no significant difference between the 2Shape and Reciproc systems in removing gutta‐percha/sealer. Sonic activation with MM1500 and Eddy significantly improved filling material removal.
Dynamic compressive response of zirconium diboride‐silicon carbide composites at high‐strain rates
Authors: Wang Mi , Kong Dewen , Wang Lingling , Li Youbin , Cai Ting
Published: May 2019

The quasi‐static, dynamic compression experiments and micromechanical model were employed to declare the dynamic compressive response of ZrB2–20%SiC composite at high‐strain rates. The quasi‐static compressive strengths were measured to determine the range of initial microcrack length in ZrB2–20%SiC composite. The effects of the strain rate on dynamic compressive strength, critical stain, as well as fracture mechanisms were discussed based on experimental results. Dynamic mechanical properties of ZrB2‐based composites display obvious strain rate dependence. The dynamic increase factor in the compressive strength shows a rapid increase above a transition strain rate of 1228 s−1. Moreover, a micromechanical model considering initial microcrack lengths is used to predict dynamic compressive strengths, which agree with the experimental results. Additionally, the critical strain has a linear increase tendency with the increase of strain rate. The dynamic compressive fracture mechanism of ZrB2–20%SiC composite is relative to the combination effect between strain rate and microstructure. The size of flaw distribution is critical below the transition strain rate resulting in bigger fragments, whereas the flaw density is primary with more and smaller fragments above the transition strain rate.
The generation of T‐cell memory to protect against tuberculosis
Authors: Counoupas Claudio , Triccas James A
Published: May 2019

Tuberculosis (TB) kills more individuals each year than any other single pathogen and a more effective vaccine is critical for the global control of the disease. Although there has been recent progress in the clinical testing of candidates, no new vaccine has been licensed for use and correlates of protective immunity in humans have not been defined. Prior Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection does not appear to confer long‐term protective immunity in humans; thus mimicking the natural immune response to infection may not be a suitable approach to develop improved TB vaccines. Data from animal testing are used to progress vaccines through the “vaccine pipeline”, but studies in animals have not been able to predict efficacy in humans. Furthermore, although the generation of conventional CD4+ T‐cell responses are considered necessary to control infection with M. tuberculosis, these do not necessarily correlate with protection induced by candidate vaccines and other immune components may play a role, including donor unrestricted T cells, tissue‐resident memory T cells and anti‐M. tuberculosis antibodies. This review will summarize the current understanding of the protective immune responses following M. tuberculosis infection or vaccination, with a particular focus on vaccines that have recently entered clinical trials.
The T helper type 17/regulatory T cell imbalance was associated with Ras‐GTPase overexpression in patients with pulmonary hypertension associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Zhu Rong , Xie Xiaochen , Wang Nana , Chen Liang , Hong Yongqing
Published: May 2019

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common but dangerous complication in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We hypothesized that dysregulation in the T helper type 17 (Th17) compartment could contribute to the development of COPD‐associated PH (COPD‐PH). To investigate this hypothesis, patients with COPD‐PH and age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls were recruited, and their circulating CD4+ T cells were activated using anti‐CD3/CD28 antibodies. The frequency of interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) ‐secreting cells was significantly higher in COPD‐PH patients than in healthy controls. The secretion of IL‐17 was significantly higher from COPD‐PH CD4+ T cells than from control CD4+ T cells, whereas the secretion of interferon‐γ and IL‐4 was not significantly different. The expression of transforming growth factor‐β, on the other hand, was significantly higher in healthy controls than in COPD‐PH patients. Activated CD4+ T cells from COPD‐PH patients also presented significantly lower forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) and higher retinoic acid receptor‐related orphan C2 (RORC2) expression than CD4+ T cells from healthy controls. In both controls and patients, a negative correlation between RORC2 and FOXP3 was found, ex vivo and after CD3/CD28 activation. The serum IL‐6 level was slightly higher in COPD‐PH patients than in controls, but the IL‐6 transcription by monocytes was comparable in COPD‐PH patients and controls. Interestingly, CD4+ T cells from COPD‐PH patients presented significantly higher levels of Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog and neuroblastoma RAS viral oncogene homolog than CD4+ T cells from healthy controls. Inhibiting Ras‐GTPases using farnesylthiosalicylic acid significantly reduced the ratio of RORC2/FOXP3 expression in CD4+ T cells. Overall, we demonstrated that an imbalance of Th17/regulatory T cells was a hallmark of COPD‐PH.
A “Mover and Shaker” for Women in Statistics
Authors: Golbeck Amanda L.
Published: May 2019

Throughout his career, and until his death in 2016, Ingram Olkin helped to foster new opportunities for women in statistics. His friend and collaborator, Amanda L. Golbeck, trawls through historical documents and more than a thousand emails to tell the story of how this came to be
Characterization of micro‐mechanical properties of AlON ceramic by cantilever bending test
Authors: Ding Maomao , Robertson Stuart , Wang Tun , Fan Lingcong , Sun Zehan , Maerz Benjamin , Crookes Robert , Xie Jianjun , Shi Ying , Wu Houzheng
Published: May 2019

The AlON transparent ceramic cantilever beams containing twin and grain boundaries were fabricated by focused ion beam technique. The deformation behaviors were investigated by measurement of the load and displacement dependence of cantilever beams from micro bending tests. Young's modulus of AlON transparent ceramics was calculated from load and displacement curves, the results of which were consistent with results of previous works. Moreover, the bonding strengths of twin lamella boundary, twin boundary, and normal grain boundary in AlON transparent ceramics were 5.00, 5.05, and 4.81 GPa, respectively.
Niche expansion of the invasive plant species Ageratina adenophora despite evolutionary constraints
Authors: Datta Arunava , Schweiger Oliver , Kühn Ingolf
Published: May 2019

Aim

Ecological inferences drawn from studies on niche dynamics of invasive species are often limited due to difficulties in disentangling evolutionary adaptations of the fundamental niche from demographic and interspecific processes shaping the realized niche. We used Ageratina adenophora, an invasive plant with restricted evolutionary potential to investigate shifts in the realized climatic niche independent of potential evolutionary adaptations.

Location

Native Mexican range; exotic ranges in Asia, the USA, the Canary Islands and Australia.

Taxon

Invasive Asteraceae A. adenophora (Spreng.) R.M.King & H.Rob. Commonly known as Crofton weed.

Methods

We compiled a robust occurrence dataset of A. adenophora for its native Mexican range and four exotic ranges (Asia, USA, Canary Islands, and Australia) and quantified pairwise niche overlap (Schoener's D) and niche dynamic (stable, unfilling and expansion) indices between the native and exotic ranges in reduced climatic space using smoothed occurrence densities. Niche shift was statistically tested using niche equivalency tests.

Results

The value of niche overlap (Schoener's D) differed considerably, ranging from relatively high between Mexico and Asia to low between Mexico and Australia. The niche dynamic indices indicated highest level of niche stability in Asia while highest degree of unstable niche was detected in Australia due to both niche expansion and unfilling. The niche similarity tests indicated that the native niche is more similar to the exotic niche than any randomly sampled niche from the exotic range. However, the niche equivalency tests showed evidence of niche differentiation as the observed niche overlap was lower than expected by chance for all pairwise comparisons. Jointly these tests indicate that despite the similarity, the native niche is not perfectly identical to any of the exotic niches.

Main conclusions

The current study has direct implications for understanding range expansion of invasive species even in the absence of evolutionary adaptation. Our study indicates that invasive species can occupy different, non‐consistent realized climatic niches in different parts of the world, thus limiting the transferability of species distribution models and corresponding risk assessments or future projections.
Hypertensive nephropathy is associated with an increased risk of myeloma, skin, and renal cancer
Authors: Heaf James Goya , Hansen Alastair , Laier Gunnar Hellmund
Published: May 2019

Previous studies suggest an increased cancer risk in hypertension. Patients with hypertensive nephropathy have not been studied. A national registry study was performed to assess the presence and size of this association. Clinical data and cancer diagnoses for all patients with biopsy‐proven hypertensive nephropathy between 1985 and 2015 in Denmark were extracted from four national registries and compared with age‐ and sex‐adjusted national cancer rates. The risk of cancer was twice the background population. It was raised for renal cancer (odds ratio 10.4), myeloma (13.2), skin cancer (7.9), and other/unspecified (1.8). No increase in incidence was seen until 1 year before renal biopsy and then rose rapidly. It was again normal 5 years after biopsy. Hypertensive nephropathy is associated with an increased risk of myeloma, skin, renal, and other cancers. Screening of patients with hypertensive nephropathy, in the presence of reduced renal function or significant proteinuria, may be indicated.
Cigarette smoke extract alters genome‐wide profiles of circular RNAs and mRNAs in primary human small airway epithelial cells
Authors: Zeng Ni , Wang Tao , Chen Mei , Yuan Zhicheng , Qin Jiangyue , Wu Yanqiu , Gao Lijuan , Shen Yongchun , Chen Lei , Wen Fuqiang
Published: May 2019

As a novel kind of non‐coding RNA, circular RNAs (circRNAs) were involved in various biological processes. However, the role of circRNAs in the developmental process of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is still unclear. In the present study, by using a cell model of COPD in primary human small airway epithelial cells (HSAECs) treated with or without cigarette smoke extract (CSE), we uncovered 4,379 previously unknown circRNAs in human cells and 903 smoke‐specific circRNAs, with the help of RNA‐sequencing and bioinformatic analysis. Moreover, 3,872 up‐ and 4,425 down‐regulated mRNAs were also identified under CSE stimulation. Furthermore, a putative circRNA‐microRNA‐mRNA network was constructed for in‐depth mechanism exploration, which indicated that differentially expressed circRNAs could influence expression of some key genes that participate in response to pentose phosphate pathway, ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporters, glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis pathway and cancer‐related pathways. Our research indicated that cigarette smoke had an influence on the biogenesis of circRNAs and mRNAs. CircRNAs might be involved in the response to CSE in COPD through the circRNA‐mediated ceRNA networks.
The healing effect of Wharton's jelly stem cells seeded on biological scaffold in chronic skin ulcers: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Hashemi Seyedeh‐Sara , Mohammadi Ali Akbar , Kabiri Hamed , Hashempoor Mohammad Reza , Mahmoodi Mahdokht , Amini Masood , Mehrabani Davood
Published: May 2019

Background

Chronic wound or nonhealing ulcer is essentially a wound that does not progress normally through the wound healing process. This study assessed the healing effect of umbilical cord Wharton's jelly stem cells seeded on biological scaffold in chronic skin ulcers.

Materials and Methods

In a randomized clinical trial, five patients between 30 and 60 years with chronic diabetic wounds were enrolled. To cover the wounds, acellular amniotic membrane seeded with Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJSCs) was used for 9 days, every 3 days with a follow‐up of 1 month. The percentage and time of wound healing and the size of wound were recorded for each patient.

Results

In treated patients, the wound healing time and wound size significantly decreased, and after 6 and 9 days, the wound size significantly declined (P < 0.002).

Conclusion

As WJSCs seeded on amniotic membrane could significantly accelerate the healing effect in chronic diabetic wounds, they can be an alternative source in tissue engineering and repair of chronic ulcers.
Use of combined fractional carbon dioxide laser and fractional microneedle radiofrequency for the treatment of acne scars: A retrospective analysis of 1‐month treatment outcome on scar severity and patient satisfaction
Authors: Tatlıparmak Aslı , Aksoy Berna , Shishehgarkhaneh Ladan R. , Gökdemir Gonca , Koç Erol
Published: May 2019

Background

Acne scars lead to social and psychological problems for patients, and they should be treated effectively. Ablative and nonablative lasers have been used for the treatment of acne scars in recent years.

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectivity of combined FCL and FmRF treatment for acne scars retrospectively.

Methods

A total of 72 patients with acne scars who received FCL + FmRF treatment between 2014 and 2016 were included in this study. Photographs of patients before treatment and 1 month following the last treatment session were scored by two blinded researchers, according to the ECCA acne scar scoring method. Patients were contacted via telephone after 1 month following the last treatment and asked to evaluate their satisfaction with the treatment outcome using a 5‐point Likert‐type scale.

Results

A significant decrease was noted in ECCA scores after the treatment along with temporary side effects. Change from pretreatment scores was significantly higher in patients very satisfied vs satisfied with treatment. The number of treatment sessions was positively correlated with treatment‐related change in ECCA scores.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our findings revealed association of FCL + FmRF treatment with significantly improved ECCA scores, mild pain experience, and low rate of side effects in patients with acne scars, despite usage of high‐energy FLC dose and five sessions of treatment on average. More remarkable improvement in ECCA scores during treatment seems to be associated with higher patient satisfaction and to be more likely in patients with darker skin types.
Tumor cell‐derived TGF‐β at tumor center independently predicts recurrence and poor survival in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lu Zhanyi , Ding Liang , Ding Haoyue , Hao Fengyao , Pu Yumei , Wang Yujia , Chen Sheng , Yang Yan , Zhao Xingxing , Huang Xiaofeng , Zhang Lei , Wang Zhiyong , Hu Qingang , Ni Yanhong
Published: May 2019

Background

Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) exerts its versatile function (oncogenic or tumor suppressive role) during the carcinogenesis in tumor microenvironment‐dependent manner. Considering the tumor heterogeneity, spatial and temporal distribution of TGF‐β in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remained to be elucidated.

Methods

Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded sections derived from 73 patients with OSCC were immunostained, revealing expression patterns of TGF‐β, both at the regions of tumor center (TC) and invasive tumor front (ITF).

Results

The TGF‐β levels on tumor cells, fibroblast‐like cells (FLCs), and tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were comparable and showed to be cell‐type‐independent manner. Although TC regions harbored less positive staining of TGF‐β than ITF in tumor cells (TGF‐βTumor cell) (89.0% vs 98.3%; P = 0.037), FLCs (TGF‐βFLC) (86.3% vs 96.6%; P = 0.043), and TILs (TGF‐βTIL) (83.6% vs 94.8%; P = 0.044), respectively, TGF‐β at TC regions, not at ITF, correlated to poor clinical outcomes. At TC regions, patients with high TGF‐βTumor cell had high recurrence rate, and patients with high TGF‐βTIL showed inferior worst pattern of invasion. Of note, high TGF‐βTumor cell at TC predicted shorter overall survival time, recurrence‐free survival, and disease‐free survival in patients with OSCC, whereas high TGF‐βTIL had no association with survival time. Cox regression analyses indicated that tumor cell‐derived TGF‐β at TC was an independent risk factor for survival outcome in patients with OSCC.

Conclusions

Tumor cell‐derived TGF‐β at TC regions, but not at ITF, could be a promising predictor for disease recurrence and poor prognosis of patients with OSCC.
Antifungal effects of dimethyl trisulfide against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides infection on mango
Authors: Tang Lihua , Mo Jianyou , Guo Tangxun , Huang Suiping , Li Qili , Ning Ping , Hsiang Tom
Published: May 2019

Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, one of the main agents of mango anthracnose, causes latent infections in unripe mango and can lead to huge losses during fruit storage and transport. Dimethyl trisulfide (DMTS) is an antifungal agent produced by several microorganisms or plants, but its effects on the infection process of C. gloeosporioides have not been well characterized. A histological investigation demonstrated that DMTS exhibits strong inhibitory effects on the infection process of C. gloeosporioides in planta by inhibiting the germination of conidia and formation of appressoria, damaging cytoplasm to cause cells to vacuolate and contributing to deformation of appressoria prior to penetration. This is the first study to demonstrate antifungal activity of DMTS against C. gloeosporioides on mango by suppression of the infection process, thus providing a novel postharvest biorational control for mango anthracnose.
Lichens facilitate seedling recruitment in alpine heath
Authors: Nystuen Kristin O. , Sundsdal Kristine , Opedal Øystein H. , Holien Håkon , Strimbeck George Richard , Graae Bente J.
Published: May 2019

Questions

How do mat thickness, physical structure and allelopathic properties of terricolous mat‐forming lichens affect recruitment of vascular plants in dwarf‐shrub and lichen heath vegetation?

Location

The mountains of Dovrefjell, central Norway.

Methods

In autumn, seeds of ten vascular plant species were collected and sown in a common garden experiment with mats of six lichen species and bare soil controls as experimental treatments. We recorded growing season soil temperature and moisture, and seedling recruitment and growth after one year. The effect of lichen secondary compounds on germination was tested in a growth chamber experiment and compared to the lichen–plant interactions detected under field conditions.

Results

The lichen mats buffered extreme soil temperatures and soil drying in dry weather, with soils below the thickest mats (Cladonia stellaris and C. rangiferina) experiencing the lowest temperature fluctuations. Seedling recruitment and seedling growth in the field and seed germination in the lab were species‐specific. Seedling recruitment rates were overall higher within lichen mats than on bare soil, but the c. 6.5‐cm‐thick mats of C. stellaris reduced recruitment of many species. The lab experiment suggested no overall strong effect of lichen allelopathy on seed germination, and effects on seed germination were only moderately correlated with the lichen–plant interactions observed for seedling recruitment in the field.

Conclusions

In harsh environments like alpine dwarf‐shrub and lichen heaths, the presence of lichens and the resulting amelioration of the microclimate seem more important for vascular plant recruitment than are allelopathic effects often reported in lab experiments. We might therefore expect most terricolous lichens, depending on the plant species in focus, to facilitate rather than hamper the early stages of plant recruitment into lichen‐dominated arctic‐alpine heath vegetation.
DEFI‐ALFA: The French key to the alpha1 mystery?
Authors: Fromme Malin , Oliverius Martin , Strnad Pavel
Published: May 2019

See Article on Page 1136
Dynamics in plant roots and shoots minimize stress, save energy and maintain water and nutrient uptake
Authors: Arsova Borjana , Foster Kylie J. , Shelden Megan C. , Bramley Helen , Watt Michelle
Published: May 2019

Plants are inherently dynamic. Dynamics minimize stress while enabling plants to flexibly acquire resources. Three examples are presented for plants tolerating saline soil: transport of sodium chloride (NaCl), water and macronutrients is nonuniform along a branched root; water and NaCl redistribute between shoot and soil at night‐time; and ATP for salt exclusion is much lower in thinner branch roots than main roots, quantified using a biophysical model and geometry from anatomy. Noninvasive phenotyping and precision agriculture technologies can be used together to harness plant dynamics, but analytical methods are needed. A plant advancing in time through a soil and atmosphere space is proposed as a framework for dynamic data and their relationship to crop improvement.
Changes in atrial electrophysiological and structural substrate and their relationship to histology in a long‐term chronic canine atrial fibrillation model
Authors: Yamashita Kennosuke , Silvernagel Josh , Kwan Eugene , Kamali Roya , Ghafoori Elyar , MacLeod Robert , Dosdall Derek J. , Ranjan Ravi
Published: May 2019

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is related to numerous electrophysiological changes; however, the extent of structural and electrophysiological remodeling with long‐term AF is not well characterized.

Methods

Dogs (n = 6) were implanted with a neurostimulator in the right atrium (AF group). No implantation was done in the Control group (n = 3). Electroanatomical mapping was done prior to and following more than 6 months of AF. Magnetic resonance imaging was also done to assess structural remodeling. Animals were euthanized and tissue samples were acquired for histological analysis.

Results

A significant increase was seen in the left atrial (LA) volume among all AF animals (22.25 ± 12.60 cm3 vs 34.00 ± 12.23 cm3, P = .01). Also, mean bipolar amplitude in the LA significantly decreased from 5.96 ± 2.17 mV at baseline to 3.23 ± 1.51 mV (P < .01) after chronic AF. Those significant changes occurred in each anterior, lateral, posterior, septal, and roof regions as well. Additionally, the dominant frequency (DF) in the LA increased from 7.02 ± 0.37 Hz to 10.12 ± 0.28 Hz at chronic AF (P < .01). Moreover, the percentage of fibrosis in chronic AF animals was significantly larger than that of control animals in each location (P < .01).

Conclusions

Canine chronic AF is accompanied by a significant decrease in intracardiac bipolar amplitudes. These decreased electrogram amplitude values are still higher than traditional cut‐off values used for diseased myocardial tissue. Despite these “normal” bipolar amplitudes, there is a significant increase in DF and tissue fibrosis.
Sourcing Contract under Countervailing Incentives
Authors: Gan Xianghua , Feng Qi , Sethi Suresh P.
Published: May 2019

We study a retailer’s sourcing contract when the supplier’s reservation profit (offered by his outside options) depends on his cost, which is privately known to only the supplier. An interesting discovery from our analysis is that supply chain coordination may be achieved despite the information asymmetry between the two firms regarding the supplier’s type (i.e., his cost). This happens when the marginal contribution of the supplier’s cost efficiency to the trade matches with the supplier’s marginal reservation profit. In this case, the optimal contract quantities maximize the supply chain profits for the respective supplier types, and no information rent is paid to any supplier type. For the general case, we show that, regardless of his type, the supplier may have an incentive to overstate or understate his cost, depending on whether or not his marginal contribution to the trade exceeds his marginal reservation profit. We demonstrate six possible forms of the optimal contract. Observations from our analysis contrast with those derived from previous studies, complementing the theory of countervailing incentives.
Spatiotemporal changes in fungal growth and host responses of six yellow rust resistant near‐isogenic lines of wheat
Authors: Saleem K. , Sørensen C. K. , Labouriau R. , Hovmøller M. S.
Published: May 2019

The objective of the present study was to investigate to what extent the macroscopic phenotype of incompatible host–pathogen interactions reflects differences in fungal development and host responses at the histological level. This was done by conventional and advanced microscopic analysis of six wheat near‐isogenic lines differing by individual R genes and inoculated with an avirulent isolate of Puccinia striiformis. Wheat line AvocetYr15 had the lowest macroscopic infection type (IT) 0–1, in which fungal growth was stopped at early stages due to extensive expression of a hypersensitive response (HR) at all time points (4, 8 and 16 days post‐inoculation, dpi) without any sign of haustorial bodies. AvocetYr5 and AvocetYr1 had IT 1, in which most fungal colonies developed secondary hyphae. Many colonies were encased by HR at 16 dpi, more extensively in AvocetYr1 than AvocetYr5. In AvocetYr6 (IT 2), HR was expressed after the formation of secondary hyphae at 4 dpi, after which fungal growth and HR increased simultaneously until most colonies became encased by HR. AvocetYr27 (IT 2–3) and AvocetYr17 (IT 4–5) showed similar fungal growth and HR at 4 dpi, where HR was only weakly expressed in a few host cells. Encasement of secondary and runner hyphae increased significantly in AvocetYr27, but at 16 dpi, HR was often circumvented by large, intermingled fungal colonies in both lines. No resistance responses were observed in Avocet S (susceptible control). The very different histological patterns conferred by the six R genes suggests differences in the timing of the host–pathogen recognition and onset of host defence pathways.
Long‐lasting systematic roguing for effective management of CABMV in passion flower orchards through maintenance of separated plants
Authors: Spadotti D. M. A. , Favara G. M. , Novaes Q. S. , Mello A. P. O. A. , Freitas D. M. S. , Edwards Molina J. P. , Rezende J. A. M.
Published: May 2019

In Brazil, passion flower is grown across almost the entire country. The predominant disease of the passion flower crop is passion fruit woodiness, caused by the potyvirus cowpea aphid‐borne mosaic virus (CABMV), and transmitted by aphids in a nonpersistent manner. The disease reduces the useful life of the orchard from 36 months to approximately 18 months. Up to now, there has not been an efficient method for disease management. The aim of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of systematic roguing of diseased plants through weekly inspections, for disease management in the field. The latent and incubation periods of CABMV in passion flower vines were determined in order to optimize roguing efficiency. Passion fruit plants inoculated with CABMV started to act as sources of inoculum from 3 days after inoculation (DAI), and the symptoms were expressed, on average, at 8 DAI. Five field experiments, conducted in the states of São Paulo and Bahia, Brazil, demonstrated that systematic roguing of diseased plants was significantly efficient for managing passion fruit woodiness disease. In order to facilitate identification and subsequent removal of the infected plants, they need to be grown separately. This cultural practice can be recommended for managing passion fruit woodiness disease, provided it is applied on a regional scale by all passion fruit growers. The development of some pilot plantings for the application of roguing in a passion flower‐producing region is recommended to validate the use of this technique for managing passion fruit woodiness disease.
Late‐onset visceral varicella‐zoster virus infection presented as acute liver failure after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Kikuchi Taku , Arai Mari , Koda Yuya , Kato Jun , Shimizu Takayuki , Katano Harutaka , Fujii‐Nishimura Yoko , Sakamoto Michiie , Ebinuma Hirotoshi , Nakamoto Nobuhiro , Kanai Takanori , Okamoto Shinichiro , Mori Takehiko
Published: May 2019

Although much less common than localized zoster, initial presentation of varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) as visceral infection can occur especially after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). We herein report a case of post‐transplant visceral VZV infection presenting as fatal acute liver failure. It developed 4 years after allogeneic HSCT when a long‐term prophylactic anti‐VZV agent administration was discontinued. VZV should be listed as a causative pathogen of acute liver failure even years after allogeneic HSCT. Indication for, and duration of anti‐VZV prophylaxis should be further investigated.
Community‐based strategies to identify the unmet need for care of individuals with sexually transmitted infection‐associated symptoms in rural South Africa
Authors: Hoffman Charlotte M. , Fritz Lise , Matlakala Nthabiseng , Mbambazela Nontembeko , Railton Jean P. , McIntyre James A. , Dubbink Jan Henk , Peters Remco P. H.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To determine the unmet need for care and barriers for consulting sexually transmitted infection (STI) services at six primary healthcare (PHC) facilities in rural South Africa.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study using three community‐based strategies to mobilise adult individuals with STI‐associated symptoms to access care. Participants were mobilised through clinic posters and referral by community healthcare workers (CHWs) and traditional leaders after training. Men with male urethritis syndrome and women with vaginal discharge syndrome were mobilised to visit participating PHC facilities on two designated days when an expert team visited the facility. Questionnaires were completed and HIV rapid tests offered. The minimal unmet need for care of individuals with STI‐associated symptoms was calculated by dividing the number of cases over the adult catchment population of each PHC facility.

Results

We successfully mobilised 177 symptomatic individuals: 134 (76%) women and 43 (24%) men. The estimated minimal unmet need for STI care was 1:364 (95% CI 1:350–1:380) individuals in this region; the rate was higher in village than township facilities, and among women. Mobilisation through clinic posters (57%) and by CHWs (23%) was most successful. Three‐quarters of individuals (132/177) reported symptoms that had been present for >30 days; 49% (87/177) had symptoms >6 months. In addition, we identified 14 individuals with untreated HIV infection amounting to a 7% HIV testing yield. Lack of awareness of symptoms (34%), and disappointment in care due to persistent (23%) or recurrent (15%) symptoms after previous treatment, or disappointment with health services in general during previous visit(s) for any reason (10%) was the most common reasons for not consulting health care.

Conclusions

We demonstrate a high unmet need for care of individuals with STI‐associated symptoms in rural South Africa that requires urgent attention. A multidisciplinary approach that creates service demand through community awareness and information provision by healthcare workers combined with strengthening the quality of STI services is required to improve reproductive health and prevent complications of untreated STIs in this population.
Morphology, phylogeny and taxonomy of the genus Sectonema (Nematoda, Aporcelaimidae)
Authors: Álvarez‐Ortega Sergio , Peña‐Santiago Reyes
Published: May 2019

This contribution provides new insights in the phylogeny and taxonomy of the nematode genus Sectonema with an integrative approach. A brief historical outline of the matter is presented. Then, the morphological pattern of the genus is revised and illustrated, the nature of its stomatal protruding structure, either a reduced odontostyle or a mural tooth, being its most relevant diagnostic feature. The existence of cilia‐ or seta‐like structures in the perioral area and/or at the anterior part of cheilostom of some species is evidenced by SEM observations for the first time. Available molecular data (D2–D3 LSU‐rRNA gene) are analysed, including two new sequences of S. septentrionale from Spain. The monophyly of the genus is confirmed, and two species groups with geographical projection are tentatively identified. A close relationship with Metaporcelaimus is also demonstrated as both taxa constitute a highly supported clade. A likely polyphyly of the family Aporcelaimidae is once more demonstrated. Finally, an updated taxonomy of the genus is proposed, including revised diagnosis, list of species, identification key and a compendium of their main morphometrics.
Meaningful and culturally appropriate palliative care for Chinese immigrants with a terminal condition: a qualitative systematic review protocol
Authors: Wei Li , Walters Jennifer , Guo Qiaohong , Fetherston Catherine , O’Connor Moira
Published: May 2019

Objective:

This review aims to identify and synthesize the best qualitative evidence on the experiences of Chinese immigrants receiving palliative care in their country of residence where the culture is predominantly Western, and the experiences of their family carers.

Introduction:

The recent increase in international immigration has led to challenges in providing culturally appropriate palliative care. Chinese populations have particular beliefs, values and practices surrounding death and filial piety. These differ considerably from those in Western cultures and have significant implications for palliative care service provision. This review will explore the experiences and perceptions of Chinese immigrants and how their cultural beliefs shape their acceptance and decision making related to palliative care.

Inclusion criteria:

The review will include studies on the experiences of Chinese immigrants over 18 years of age with a terminal medical condition receiving palliative care in outpatient units, hospitals, hospices, specialist palliative care units, homes and community settings in their country of residence where the culture is predominantly Western.

Methods:

Eligible studies will be studies with qualitative data including designs such as phenomenology, grounded theory, ethnography, narrative research, qualitative description, action research and feminist research published in English and Chinese. CINAHL, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection will be used and grey literature will be searched using ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, OpenGrey and Caresearch. Appraisal of selected studies will be done with the Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review tool. Findings will be synthesized through a meta-aggregative approach to produce a comprehensive set of synthesized findings that can be used as a basis for evidence-based practice.