bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A decision support framework assessing management impacts on crop yield, soil carbon changes and nitrogen losses to the environment
Authors: Young Madaline D. , Ros Gerard H. , de Vries Wim
Published: July 2020

Agricultural management practices have multiple impacts on farming systems, including crop yield, soil fertility parameters such as soil organic carbon (SOC), and environmental quality. Agricultural decision support tools (DSTs) are key in sustainable farm strategies to optimize yield and minimize environmental losses because both the current agroecosystem properties as well as the effectiveness of management practices are highly variable in time and space. Here, we introduce a highly data‐driven framework focusing on the evaluation of agronomic measures to reach agronomic and environmental targets. We demonstrate the potential of this approach by a proof of principle for 81 selected farm types across Europe, focusing on measures with respect to crop rotation, fertilization and soil tillage. Synthesizing data from long‐term experiments and meta‐analytical models, we estimated the impact of these measures on crop yield, SOC and N surpluses, while accounting for site‐specific properties for the current and desired situation. The impacts of these measures on all farm types have been quantified, and optimum sets of agronomic measures have been selected in order to maximize crop yield and SOC levels and minimize N surpluses to reach the critical values for NO3− concentrations in groundwater. Our results, quantifying trade‐offs among sustainability indicators that have traditionally been analyzed separately, illustrate that the suitability of measures varies by soil, climate and crop types within Europe. Our approach is promising for mapping region‐specific management recommendations and evaluating the effectiveness of agronomic measures over multiple environmental goals and targets.

Highlights

We find a lack of empirical‐based DSTs holistically assessing agronomic practices and indicators.

Meta‐analytical models were used to assess impacts of best fertilizer, tillage and crop measures.

Our multi‐criteria analysis shows impacts vary with crop, soil and climate in European regions.

We demonstrate our developed framework focusing on crop yield, soil carbon and nitrogen losses.
Assessment of neurological manifestations in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Luigetti M. , Iorio R. , Bentivoglio A. R. , Tricoli L. , Riso V. , Marotta J. , Piano C. , Primiano G. , Zileri Del Verme L. , Lo Monaco M. R. , Calabresi P. ,   GEMELLI AGAINST COVID‐19 group
Published: July 2020

Background and purpose

The objective of this study was to assess the neurological manifestations in a series of consecutive severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2)‐positive patients, comparing their frequency with a population hospitalized in the same period for flu/respiratory symptoms, finally not related to SARS‐CoV‐2.

Methods

Patients with flu/respiratory symptoms admitted to Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli hospital from 14 March 2020 to 20 April 2020 were retrospectively enrolled. The frequency of neurological manifestations of patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was compared with a control group.

Results

In all, 213 patients were found to be positive for SARS‐CoV‐2, after reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction on nasal or throat swabs, whilst 218 patients were found to be negative and were used as a control group. Regarding central nervous system manifestations, in SARS‐CoV‐2‐positive patients a higher frequency of headache, hyposmia and encephalopathy always related to systemic conditions (fever or hypoxia) was observed. Furthermore, muscular involvement was more frequent in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Conclusions

Patients with COVID‐19 commonly have neurological manifestations but only hyposmia and muscle involvement seem more frequent compared with other flu diseases.
Terminal keratinocyte differentiation in vitro is associated with a stable DNA methylome
Authors: Smits Jos P. H. , Dirks René A. M. , Qu Jieqiong , Oortveld Merel A. W. , Brinkman Arie B. , Zeeuwen Patrick L. J. M. , Schalkwijk Joost , Zhou Huiqing , Marks Hendrik , van den Bogaard Ellen H.
Published: July 2020

The epidermal compartment of the skin is regenerated constantly by proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes. Differentiation of a subset of these keratinocytes allows the epidermis to retain its barrier properties. Regulation of keratinocyte fate—whether to remain proliferative or terminally differentiate—is complex and not fully understood. The objective of our study was to assess if DNA methylation changes contribute to the regulation of keratinocyte fate. We employed genome‐wide MethylationEPIC beadchip array measuring approximately 850 000 probes combined with RNA sequencing of in vitro cultured non‐differentiated and terminally differentiated adult human primary keratinocytes. We did not observe a correlation between methylation status and transcriptome changes. Moreover, only two differentially methylated probes were detected, of which one was located in the TRIM29 gene. Although TRIM29 knock‐down resulted in lower expression levels of terminal differentiation genes, these changes were minor. From these results, we conclude that—in our in vitro experimental setup—it is unlikely that changes in DNA methylation have an important regulatory role in terminal keratinocyte differentiation.
Dialog between skin and its microbiota: Emergence of “Cutaneous Bacterial Endocrinology”
Authors: Racine Pierre‐Jean , Janvier Xavier , Clabaut Maximilien , Catovic Chloe , Souak Djouhar , Boukerb Amine M. , Groboillot Anne , Konto‐Ghiorghi Yoan , Duclairoir‐Poc Cécile , Lesouhaitier Olivier , Orange Nicole , Chevalier Sylvie , Feuilloley Marc G. J.
Published: July 2020

Microbial endocrinology is studying the response of microorganisms to hormones and neurohormones and the microbiota production of hormones‐like molecules. Until now, it was mainly applied to the gut and revealed that the intestinal microbiota should be considered as a real organ in constant and bilateral interactions with the whole human body. The skin harbours the second most abundant microbiome and contains an abundance of nerve terminals and capillaries, which in addition to keratinocytes, fibroblasts, melanocytes, dendritic cells and endothelial cells, release a huge diversity of hormones and neurohormones. In the present review, we will examine recent experimental data showing that, in skin, molecules such as substance P, calcitonin gene‐related peptide, natriuretic peptides and catecholamines can directly affect the physiology and virulence of common skin‐associated bacteria. Conversely, bacteria are able to synthesize and release compounds including histamine, glutamate and γ‐aminobutyric acid or peptides showing partial homology with neurohormones such as α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (αMSH). The more surprising is that some viruses can also encode neurohormones mimicking proteins. Taken together, these elements demonstrate that there is also a cutaneous microbial endocrinology and this emerging concept will certainly have important consequences in dermatology.
Model membrane systems to reconstitute immune cell signaling
Authors: Céspedes Pablo F. , Beckers Daniel , Dustin Michael L. , Sezgin Erdinc
Published: July 2020

Understanding the broad variety of functions encoded in cellular membranes requires experimental systems mimicking both their biochemical composition and biophysical properties. Here, we review the interplay between membrane components and the physical properties of the plasma membrane worth considering for biomimetic studies. Later, we discuss the main advantages and caveats of different model membrane systems. We further expand on how the use of model systems has contributed to the understanding of immune cell signaling, with a specific focus on the immunological synapse. We discuss the similarities of immune synapses observed for innate and adaptive immune cells and focus on the physical principles underlying these similarities.
Recent progress of bacterial FtsZ inhibitors with a focus on peptides
Authors: Han Huihui , Wang Zhenlong , Li Ting , Teng Da , Mao Ruoyu , Hao Ya , Yang Na , Wang Xiumin , Wang Jianhua
Published: July 2020

In recent years, the rise of antibiotic resistance has become a primary health problem. With the emergence of bacterial resistance, the need to explore and develop novel antibacterial drugs has become increasingly urgent. Filamentous temperature‐sensitive mutant Z (FtsZ), a crucial cell division protein of bacteria, has become a vital antibacterial target. FtsZ is a filamentous GTPase; it is highly conserved in bacteria and shares less than 20% sequence identity with the eukaryotic cytoskeleton protein tubulin, indicating that FtsZ‐targeting antibacterial agents may have a low cytotoxicity toward eukaryotes. FtsZ can form a dynamic Z‐ring in the center of the cell resulting in cell division. Furthermore, disturbance in the assembly of FtsZ may affect cellular dynamics and bacterial cell survival, making it a fascinating target for drug development. This review focuses on the recent discovery of FtsZ inhibitors, including peptides, natural products, and other synthetic small molecules, as well as their mechanism of action, which could facilitate the discovery of novel FtsZ‐targeting clinical drugs in the future.
Decade of experimental permafrost thaw reduces turnover of young carbon and increases losses of old carbon, without affecting the net carbon balance
Authors: Olid Carolina , Klaminder Jonatan , Monteux Sylvain , Johansson Margareta , Dorrepaal Ellen
Published: July 2020

Thicker snowpacks and their insulation effects cause winter‐warming and invoke thaw of permafrost ecosystems. Temperature‐dependent decomposition of previously frozen carbon (C) is currently considered one of the strongest feedbacks between the Arctic and the climate system, but the direction and magnitude of the net C balance remains uncertain. This is because winter effects are rarely integrated with C fluxes during the snow‐free season and because predicting the net C balance from both surface processes and thawing deep layers remains challenging. In this study, we quantified changes in the long‐term net C balance (net ecosystem production) in a subarctic peat plateau subjected to 10 years of experimental winter‐warming. By combining 210Pb and 14Cdating of peat cores with peat growth models, we investigated thawing effects on year‐round primary production and C losses through respiration and leaching from both shallow and deep peat layers. Winter‐warming and permafrost thaw had no effect on the net C balance, but strongly affected gross C fluxes. Carbon losses through decomposition from the upper peat were reduced as thawing of permafrost induced surface subsidence and subsequent waterlogging. However, primary production was also reduced likely due to a strong decline in bryophytes cover while losses from the old C pool almost tripled, caused by the deepened active layer. Our findings highlight the need to estimate long‐term responses of whole‐year production and decomposition processes to thawing, both in shallow and deep soil layers, as they may contrast and lead to unexpected net effects on permafrost C storage.
Chemical genetic analysis of FTY720‐ and Ca2+‐sensitive mutants reveals a functional connection between FTY720 and membrane trafficking
Authors: Hagihara Kanako , Kanda Yuki , Ishida Kouki , Satoh Ryosuke , Takasaki Teruaki , Maeda Takuya , Sugiura Reiko
Published: July 2020

FTY720, a sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) analog, is used as an immune modulator to treat multiple sclerosis. Accumulating evidence has suggested the mode of action of FTY720 independent of an S1P modulator. In fission yeast, FTY720 induces an increase in intracellular Ca2+ and ROS levels. We have previously identified 49 genes of which deletion causes FTY720 sensitivity. Here, we characterized the FTY720‐sensitive mutants in terms of their relevance to the Ca2+ homeostasis and identified the 16 FTY720‐ and Ca2+‐sensitive mutants (fcs mutants). Most of the FTY720‐sensitive mutants showed elevated Ca2+ levels and exhibited Ca2+ dysregulation by FTY720 treatment. One of the functional categories among the genes whose deletion renders cells susceptible to FTY720 and Ca2+ include the Golgi/endosomal membrane trafficking. Notably, FTY720, but not phosphorylated FTY720 incapable of inducing Ca2+ increase, inhibited the secretion of acid phosphatase in the wild‐type cells. Importantly, secretory defects of the Golgi/endosomal trafficking mutants, Vps45, or Ryh1 deletion, were further exacerbated by FTY720. Our fcs mutant screen also identified the adenylyl cyclase‐associated protein Cap1 and a Rictor homolog Ste20, whose deletion markedly exacerbated FTY720‐sensitive secretory impairment. Collectively, our data may suggest a synergistic impact of FTY720 combined with secretion perturbation on proliferation and Ca2+ homeostasis.
Hydraulic Performance of the Horizontal Reactive Media Treatment Well: Pilot and Numerical Study
Authors: Nzeribe Blossom N. , Li Wen , Crimi Michelle , Yao Guangming , Divine Craig E. , McDonough Jeff , Wang Jack
Published: July 2020

This study is focused on a passive treatment system known as the horizontal reactive treatment well (HRX Well®) installed parallel to groundwater flow, which operates on the principle of flow focusing that results from the hydraulic conductivity (K) ratio of the well and aquifer media. Passive flow and capture in the HRX Well are described by simplified equations adapted from Darcy's Law. A field pilot‐scale study (PSS) and numerical simulations using a finite element method (FEM) were conducted to verify the HRX Well concept and test the validity of the HRX Well‐simplified equations. The hydraulic performance results from both studies were observed to be within a close agreement to the simplified equations and their hydraulic capture width approximately five times greater than the well diameter (0.20 m). Key parameters affecting capture included the aquifer thickness, well diameter, and permeability ratio of the HRX Well treatment media and aquifer material. During pilot testing, the HRX Well captured 39% of flow while representing 0.5% of the test pit cross‐sectional volume, indicating that the well captures a substantial amount of surrounding groundwater. While uncertainty in the aquifer and well properties (porosity, K, well losses), including the effects of boundary conditions, may have caused minor differences in the results, data from this study indicate that the simplified equations are valid for the conceptual design of a field study. A full‐scale HRX Well was installed at Site SS003 at Vanderberg Air Force Base, California, in July/August 2018 based on outcomes from this study.
Effects of different drying methods on the physicochemical property and edible quality of fermented Pyracantha fortuneana fruit powder
Authors: Luo Zhencen , Zhou Lingguo , Zhu Yiwei , Zhou Caiqiong
Published: July 2020

In this study, hot air drying (HAD), hot air‐/microwave‐assisted vacuum drying (HAMAVD) and hot air‐assisted microwave drying (HAAMD) were applied to lactic acid‐fermented Pyracantha fortuneana fruit (PFF). Influences of different drying methods on fluidity and dispersion, microstructure, hygroscopicity, rehydration, colour change, sourness and energy consumption were investigated. Results showed that HAAMD had the best overall performance on the quality of the PFF powder. HAAMD PFF powder had higher expansion force (1.65 mL g−1) and water‐holding capacity (2.68 g g−1), lower degree of compression (9.09%) and energy consumption, smaller colour change and better taste. Organic acids (mainly malic acids) of all drying powders decreased, but HAAMD and HAMAVD could better improve the acidity characteristics of PFF powders, which may be related to the drying time and the temperature change processes. Consequently, this study can provide references for the utilisation of fresh PFF, the design and commercialisation of PFF‐related products.
Insight into the phase inversion of a turmeric oil nanoemulsion in antifungal process
Authors: Lin Yu , Liu Jia , Gao Yanjin , Liu Rui , Qin Zini , Guan Yongguang
Published: July 2020

Antimicrobial essential oil nanoemulsions have been wildly applied in plant sterilisation. Here, a turmeric oil (TO) oil‐in‐water (O/W) nanoemulsion was developed to understand the antifungal mechanism between TO and Podosphaera xanthii (P. xanthii), simulating a moisture evaporation after spraying TO nanoemulsion on plant leaves. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo‐TEM) suggested the average hydrodynamic diameter of spherical TO nanoemulsion droplets was 150.2 nm with polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.17, which suggested no significant change after storing at 54 °C for 2 weeks. Atomic force microscope (AFM) as well as conductivity and viscosity demonstrated the phase inversion of droplets from O/W to water‐in‐oil (W/O) types during moisture evaporation is a primary mechanism to reveal the antifungal TO on cucumber leaves. Finally, the antifungal capacity of TO nanoemulsion was evaluated on living cucumber plants and demonstrated a remarkable antifungal effect on inhibiting the growth of P. xanthii.
Identification of characteristic starch properties of wheat varieties used to commercially produce dried noodles
Authors: Jiang Zongyuan , Liu Qingjing , Zhou Xiaoling , Li Xianghong , Wang Faxiang , Liu Yongle
Published: July 2020

The starch physicochemical properties of wheat varieties used to commercially produce dried noodles were studied. Scanning electron microscopy and laser microparticle size analyser were used to observe the starch particles; the polymorphism of the waxy (Wx) protein of each wheat variety was also studied. The correlation analysis among commonalities of the starch physicochemical properties and noodle textural properties was performed. Results indicated that the amylose contents of the noodle wheat varieties ranged from 17.8% to 21.7%. There was a significant, positive correlation between the thermodynamic temperature of starch and the volume distribution of particle size. The correlation between the volume distribution of B‐type starch granules and noodle springiness was significant, which means that volume distribution of starch particle size could be used as one of the indicators to evaluate the springiness of noodles. Molecular polymorphism identification of Wx protein was also useful to select desirable noodle wheat variety. The results of this study provide useful information for wheat breeding works and wheat variety selection of noodle‐making company.
Obese men undergoing radical prostatectomy: Is robotic or retropubic better to limit positive surgical margins? Results from SEARCH
Authors: Nik‐Ahd Farnoosh , Howard Lauren E , Aronson William J , Terris Martha K , Klaassen Zachary , Cooperberg Matthew R , Amling Christopher L , Kane Christopher J , Freedland Stephen J
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the association between obesity and positive surgical margins in patients undergoing retropubic radical prostatectomy versus robotic‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 3141 men undergoing retropubic radical prostatectomy and 1625 undergoing robotic‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy between 1988 and 2017 at eight Veterans Health Administration hospitals. The positive surgical margin location (peripheral, apical, bladder neck, overall) was determined from pathology reports. We adjusted for age, race, prostate‐specific antigen, surgery year, prostate weight, pathological grade group, extracapsular extension, seminal vesicle invasion, hospital surgical volume and surgical method (in analyses not stratified by surgical method). Interactions between body mass index and surgical approach were tested.

Results

Among all patients, higher body mass index was associated with increased odds of overall, peripheral and apical positive surgical margins (OR 1.02–1.03, P ≤ 0.02). Although not statistically significant, there was a trend between higher body mass index and increased odds of bladder neck positive surgical margins (OR 1.03, P = 0.09). Interactions between body mass index and surgical method were significant for peripheral positive surgical margins only (P = 0.024). Specifically, there was an association between body mass index and peripheral positive surgical margins among men undergoing retropubic radical prostatectomy (OR 1.04, P < 0.001), but not robotic‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (OR 1.00, P = 0.98). Limitations include lacking individual surgeon data and lacking central pathology review.

Conclusions

In this multicenter cohort, higher body mass index was associated with increased odds of positive surgical margins at all locations except the bladder neck. Furthermore, there was a significant association between obesity and peripheral positive surgical margins in men undergoing retropubic radical prostatectomy, but not robotic‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy. Long‐term clinical significance requires further study.
Targeting metabolism to reverse T‐cell exhaustion in chronic viral infections
Authors: Sears John D. , Waldron Kevin J. , Wei Jian , Chang Chih‐Hao
Published: July 2020

CD8 T‐cells are an essential component of the adaptive immune response accountable for the clearance of virus‐infected cells via cytotoxic effector functions. Maintaining a specific metabolic profile is necessary for these T‐cells to sustain their effector functions and clear pathogens. When CD8 T‐cells are activated via T‐cell receptor recognition of viral antigen, they transition from a naïve to an effector state and eventually to a memory phenotype, and their metabolic profiles shift as the cells differentiate to accomidate different metabolic demands. However, in the context of particular chronic viral infections (CVIs), CD8 T‐cells can become metabolically dysfunctional in a state known as T‐cell exhaustion. In this state, CD8 T‐cells exhibit reduced effector functions and are unable to properly control pathogens. Clearing these chronic infections becomes progressively difficult as increasing numbers of the effector T‐cells become exhausted. Hence, reversal of this dysfunctional metabolic phenotype is vital when considering potential treatments of these infections and offers the opportunity for novel strategies for the development of therapies against CVIs. In this review we explore research implicating alteration of the metabolic state as a means to reverse CD8 T‐cell exhaustion in CVIs. These findings indicate that strategies targeting dysfunctional CD8 T‐cell metabolism could prove to be a promising option for successfully treating CVIs.
Environmental heterogeneity dynamics drive plant diversity on oceanic islands
Authors: Barajas‐Barbosa Martha Paola , Weigelt Patrick , Borregaard Michael Krabbe , Keppel Gunnar , Kreft Holger
Published: July 2020

Aim

The General Dynamic Model (GDM) links island biogeographical processes to island geological history. A key premise of the GDM implies that environmental factors shaping the ecology and evolution of biota on oceanic islands follow a hump‐shaped trend over the island's life span and drive dynamics in carrying capacity, species diversity and endemism. An important component of the GDM is environmental heterogeneity (EH), but its effects on insular diversity remain poorly understood. Here, we first quantified EH, tested whether EH follows the expected hump‐shaped trend along island ontogeny and evaluated how EH relates to plant diversity.

Location

135 oceanic islands of volcanic origin.

Taxon

Vascular plants.

Methods

We calculated 20 EH metrics focusing on topographic and climatic components of EH, and compared whole‐island metrics (e.g. range) and moving‐window metrics (e.g. roughness). Using linear mixed‐effects models, we evaluated the trends of EH with island age and the EH–plant diversity relationship expected based on the GDM.

Results

Our analysis revealed some EH components to be collinear, for example, elevation and temperature heterogeneity but also that EH metrics capture different aspects of EH, for example, climatic gradients versus climatic complexity. EH generally followed a hump‐shaped trend with island age, peaking early during island ontogeny. Among the EH components, climatic heterogeneity had the strongest effect on plant species richness and elevational heterogeneity on endemism. Lastly, including EH metrics in GDMs (traditionally, only island age and area were included) improved their predictive power.

Main conclusions

The EH metrics compared here captured various attributes of the environment that influence insular plant diversity. In line with the GDM, our results strongly support a hump‐shaped relationship between EH and island age, suggesting that islands become highly heterogeneous early in their ontogeny. Finally, the contribution of EH to GDM‐based models of species richness and endemism suggests that EH is a main driver of the diversity of oceanic island biotas.
Gene expression profile of adhesion and extracellular matrix molecules during early stages of skeletal muscle regeneration
Authors: Ceafalan Laura C. , Dobre Maria , Milanesi Elena , Niculae Andrei M. , Manole Emilia , Gherghiceanu Mihaela , Hinescu Mihail E.
Published: July 2020

Skeletal muscle regeneration implies the coordination of myogenesis with the recruitment of myeloid cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling. Currently, there are no specific biomarkers to diagnose the severity and prognosis of muscle lesions. In order to investigate the gene expression profile of extracellular matrix and adhesion molecules, as premises of homo‐ or heterocellular cooperation and milestones for skeletal muscle regeneration, we performed a gene expression analysis for genes involved in cellular cooperation, migration and ECM remodelling in a mouse model of acute crush injury. The results obtained at two early time‐points post‐injury were compared to a GSE5413 data set from two other trauma models. Third day post‐injury, when inflammatory cells invaded, genes associated with cell‐matrix interactions and migration were up‐regulated. After day 5, as myoblast migration and differentiation started, genes for basement membrane constituents were found down‐regulated, whereas genes for ECM molecules, macrophage, myoblast adhesion, and migration receptors were up‐regulated. However, the profile and the induction time varied according to the experimental model, with only few genes being constantly up‐regulated. Gene up‐regulation was higher, delayed and more diverse following more severe trauma. Moreover, one of the most up‐regulated genes was periostin, suggestive for severe muscle damage and unfavourable architecture restoration.
Corilagin suppresses RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis and inhibits oestrogen deficiency‐induced bone loss via the NF‐κB and PI3K/AKT signalling pathways
Authors: Lu Jinwei , Ye Chenyi , Huang Yanyong , Huang Donghui , Tang Lan , Hou Weiduo , Kuang Zhihui , Chen Yazhou , Xiao Shining , Yishake Mumingjiang , He Rongxin
Published: July 2020

Over‐activated osteoclastogenesis, which is initiated by inflammation, has been implicated in osteoporosis. Corilagin, a natural compound extracted from various medicinal herbaceous plants, such as Cinnamomum cassia, has antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities. We found that Corilagin suppressed osteoclast differentiation in a dose‐dependent manner, significantly decreased osteoclast‐related gene expression and impaired bone resorption by osteoclasts. Moreover, phosphorylation of members of the nuclear factor‐kappaB (NF‐κB) and PI3K/AKT signalling pathways was reduced by Corilagin. In a murine model of osteoporosis, Corilagin inhibited osteoclast functions in vivo and restored oestrogen deficiency‐induced bone loss. In conclusion, our findings suggested that Corilagin inhibited osteoclastogenesis by down‐regulating the NF‐κB and PI3K/AKT signalling pathways, thus showing its potential possibility for the treatment of osteoporosis.
Maternal and paternal histories differentially influence risks for diabetes, insulin secretion and insulin resistance in a Chinese population
Authors: Kong Xiaomu , Yang Zhaojun , Zhang Bo , Chen Xiaoping , Yu Liping , Zhu Haiqing , Xing Xiaoyan , Yang Wenying
Published: July 2020

Aims/Introduction

To investigate the differential effects of maternal versus paternal history of diabetes on the risks for diabetes and prediabetes, as well as on insulin secretion and resistance in Chinese individuals.

Materials and Methods

From the 2007 to 2008 China National Diabetes and Metabolism Disorders Study, 39,244 participants were included and divided into four categories: negative parental history, paternal history only (PH), maternal history only (MH), and both paternal and maternal history.

Results

The age‐ and sex‐standardized prevalence rates of diabetes in the negative parental history, PH, MH, and both paternal and maternal history groups were 8.59, 12.56, 15.86 and 29.81%, respectively. The prevalence rates of impaired glucose metabolism were 24.13, 25.41, 31.13 and 50.80%, with the prevalence in the MH group being significantly higher than that in the PH group. Compared with that in the FH0 group, the risks of diabetes in the PH, MH, and both paternal and maternal history groups were 2.01‐, 2.67‐ and 6.37‐fold greater, and the risks of impaired glucose metabolism were 1.28‐, 1.65‐ and 3.45‐fold greater. In addition, MH had a significantly greater impact on impaired glucose metabolism than PH (PMHvsPH = 0.0292). Regression analyses suggested MH was associated with homeostatic model assessment for β‐cell function (β[SE] = −0.0910[0.0334], P = 0.0065), insulinogenic index (−0.1866[0.0550], P = 0.0007), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (0.0662[0.0227], P = 0.0036) and Matsuda Index [−0.0716(0.0203), P = 0.0004]. PH was specifically associated with homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (0.1343[0.0267], P < 0.0001) and Matsuda Index (−0.1566[0.0243], P < 0.0001), but the effects were stronger than those of MH (PMHvsPH = 0.0431, 0.0054).

Conclusions

MH and PH differentially influence the risks for diabetes, insulin secretion, and insulin resistance in the Chinese population, suggesting they participate in the pathogenesis of diabetes through different mechanisms.
Photosynthetic Sponge‐associated Eukaryotes in the Aegean Sea: A Culture‐dependent Approach
Authors: Konstantinou Despoina , Kakakiou Rafaela V. , Panteris Emmanuel , Voultsiadou Eleni , Gkelis Spyros
Published: July 2020

Symbioses between sponges and photosynthetic organisms are very diverse regarding the taxonomy and biogeography of both hosts and symbionts; to date, most research has focused on the exploration of bacterial diversity. The present study aims to characterize the culturable diversity of photosynthetic eukaryotes associated with sponges in the Aegean Sea, on which no information exists. Five microalgae strains were isolated from marine sponges; the strains were characterized by morphological features, and the 18S rRNA, 18S‐28S Internal Transcribed Spacer, and ribulose‐bisphosphate carboxylase large chain (rbcL) sequences. Our polyphasic approach showed that the strains belonged to the green‐alga Acrochaete leptochaete, the diatom Nanofrustulum cf. shiloi, the rhodophyte Acrochaetium spongicola, and the chlorachniophyte Lotharella oceanica. A. leptochaete is reported for the first time in sponges, even though green algae are known to be associated with sponges. Nanofrustulum shiloi was found in association with the sponges Agelas oroides and Chondrilla nucula, whereas information existed only for its association with the species Aplysina aerophoba. Acrochaetium spongicola was found for the first time in association with sponges in the eastern Mediterranean. Moreover, we report herein for the first time a sponge–chlorarachniophycean association. Our research revealed new diversity of microalgae associated with sponges and added new records of sponge species, previously unknown for their association with microalgae.
Impact of an 8‐Year Intensive Lifestyle Intervention on an Index of Multimorbidity
Authors: Espeland Mark A. , Gaussoin Sarah A. , Bahnson Judy , Vaughan Elizabeth M. , Knowler William C. , Simpson Felicia R. , Hazuda Helen P. , Johnson Karen C. , Munshi Medha N. , Coday Mace , Pi‐Sunyer Xavier
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity are sometimes described as conditions that accelerate aging. Multidomain lifestyle interventions have shown promise to slow the accumulation of age‐related diseases, a hallmark of aging. However, they have not been assessed among at‐risk individuals with these two conditions. We examined the relative impact of 8 years of a multidomain lifestyle intervention on an index of multimorbidity.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled clinical trial comparing an intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) that targeted weight loss through caloric restriction and increased physical activity with a control condition of diabetes support and education (DSE).

SETTING

Sixteen U.S. academic centers.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 5,145 volunteers, aged 45 to 76, with established type 2 diabetes mellitus and overweight or obesity who met eligibility criteria for a randomized controlled clinical trial.

MEASUREMENTS

A multimorbidity index that included nine age‐related chronic diseases and death was tracked over 8 years of intervention delivery.

RESULTS

Among individuals assigned to DSE, the multimorbidity index scores increased by an average of .98 (95% confidence interval [CI] = .94–1.02) over 8 years, compared with .89 (95% CI = .85–.93) among those in the multidomain ILI, which was a 9% difference (P = .003). Relative intervention effects were similar among individuals grouped by baseline body mass index, age, and sex, and they were greater for those with lower levels of multimorbidity index scores at baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

Increases in multimorbidity over time among adults with overweight or obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus may be slowed by multidomain ILI. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:2249–2256, 2020.
Toward a dissection of β‐Amyloid localized effects on glutamatergic hippocampal repertoire
Authors: Méndez J. Alfredo , Ortega Arturo
Published: July 2020

Hippocampal excitatory glutamatergic transmission is critically involved in cognitive functions such as learning and memory. A severe impairment of spatial memory is associated with the Alzheimer's disease characteristic augmentation of soluble Amyloid‐beta1‐42 which in turn leads to glutamatergic neurotransmission dysfunction. As the molecular basis of such correlations has not been completely understood, this Editorial highlights a study in the current issue of the Journal of Neurochemistry in which Yeung and coworkers provide an elegant anatomical study that sheds light into this problematic. Through a rigorous immunohistochemical approach, a sub‐regional expression pattern of ionotropic glutamate receptors and vesicular transporters was determined in control and beta amyloid‐injected mouse hippocampus. The selected areas participate in information processing and thus, in memory formation. Furthermore, the authors discuss their findings in the context of cognitive deficits present in Alzheimer's disease patients delivering an intuitive analysis of plausible molecular events that disturb proper glutamate signaling. This study takes an important step toward a better understanding of the complexity of Amyloid‐beta1‐42 and glutamatergic neurotransmission interactions.

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Involving patients and nurses in choosing between two validated questionnaires to identify chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy before implementing in clinical practice—A qualitative study
Authors: Jensen Marlene Æ. , Yilmaz Mette N. , Pedersen Birgith
Published: July 2020

Aims and objectives

To explore from a nurse and patient perspective what questionnaire—“Functional assessment of cancer treatment gynecological group neurotoxicity” or “Oxaliplatin‐Associated Neuropathy Questionnaire”—best describes chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy and its influence on everyday life in a comprehensive and meaningful way, prior to implementation in daily practice.

Background

Patients experience chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy during and after chemotherapy for colorectal cancer with oxaliplatin. This neuropathy is difficult to describe for patients and to identify for nurses. To address the specific needs of patients and improve identification of neuropathy and its influence on everyday life, we wanted to implement a questionnaire in clinical practice.

Design

A phenomenological hermeneutic frame of reference was used.

Method

Semi‐structured interviews with 15 patients and two focus groups with eight cancer nurses were used for data collection. Data were organised and interpreted by content analytical steps in a hermeneutical process. COREQ checklist was used in reporting of the study.

Results

The analysis resulted in two main themes (a) “To dig deeper” with sub‐themes “to identify the line between acceptable and nonacceptable chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy,” and “searching for a precise description.” (b). “When everything is interrelated” with sub‐themes “to be aware of different perspectives and understandings” and “recognise potential pitfalls.”

Conclusion

Involving patients and nurses in choosing between the two questionnaires revealed that neither alone was sufficient to describe the patients’ experiences. Instead, it seems essential to implement both questionnaires, using the answers as a basis for a dialogue to address the patients’ specific needs.

Relevance for clinical practice

Using patients and nurses perspectives in a complementary way may provide a solid foundation before starting an implementation process in clinical practice. However, attention must be paid to potential barriers and facilitators as well as the fact that a successful implementing process requires leadership and information sharing.
Effects of antibiotic administration on post‐operative endodontic symptoms in patients with pulpal necrosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Shamszadeh Sayna , Asgary Saeed , Shirvani Armin , Eghbal Mohammad Jafar
Published: July 2020

Objectives

The current systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to assess the efficacy of prophylactic oral antibiotics in the management of post‐operative endodontic symptoms in adults with necrotic pulp.

Materials and methods

A systematic search up to April 2020 was performed to find all randomised controlled trials (RTCs) comparing oral antibiotics with placebo to manage post‐endodontic symptoms. The outcome measures were post‐operative pain, swelling and/or the combined pain and swelling at different follow‐ups. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using random‐effect inverse‐variance method. Additional analysis was performed if heterogeneity existed (P < .05).

Results

For post‐endodontic pain, 8 RCTs (n = 690) were included. Antibiotic prescription had no significant effect on endodontic pain at 6 (SMD = −0.008, 95% CI −0.279 − 0.264, P = .95), 12 (SMD = −0.080, 95% CI −1.39 − 1.23, P = .90), 24 (SMD = −0.044, 95% CI −0.29 − 0.20, P = .72), 48 (SMD = 0.18, 95% CI −0.26 − 0.62, P = .42) and 72 h (SMD= −0.050, 95% CI −0.33 − 0.23, P = .723) post‐operatively. For post‐endodontic swelling, 4 RCTs (n = 149) were included. Antibiotic prescription had no significant effect on endodontic swelling at 24 (SMD = 0.29, 95% CI −0.72 − 1.32, P = .56), 48 (SMD = −0.23, 95% CI −0.98 − 0.51, P = .54) and 72 hours (SMD= −0.03, 95% CI −1.25 − 1.33, P = .96), post‐operatively. For combined pain and swelling, no meta‐analysis was performed.

Conclusion

The administration of prophylactic antibiotics to prevent post‐operative endodontic symptoms is not supported by the current evidence.
A PERIOD3 variable number tandem repeat polymorphism modulates melatonin treatment response in delayed sleep‐wake phase disorder
Authors: Magee Michelle , Sletten Tracey L. , Murray Jade M. , Gordon Christopher J. , Lovato Nicole , Bartlett Delwyn J. , Kennaway David J. , Lockley Steven W. , Lack Leon C. , Grunstein Ronald R. , Archer Simon N. , Rajaratnam Shantha M.W. ,   Delayed Sleep on Melatonin (DelSoM) Study Group
Published: July 2020

We examined whether a polymorphism of the PERIOD3 gene (PER3; rs57875989) modulated the sleep‐promoting effects of melatonin in Delayed Sleep‐Wake Phase Disorder (DSWPD). One hundred and four individuals (53 males; 29.4 ±10.0 years) with DSWPD and a delayed dim light melatonin onset (DLMO) collected buccal swabs for genotyping (PER34/4 n = 43; PER3 5 allele [heterozygous and homozygous] n = 60). Participants were randomised to placebo or 0.5 mg melatonin taken 1 hour before desired bedtime (or ~1.45 hours before DLMO), with sleep attempted at desired bedtime (4 weeks; 5‐7 nights/week). We assessed sleep (diary and actigraphy), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS: Sleep Disturbance, Sleep‐Related Impairment), Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS) and Patient‐ and Clinician‐Global Improvement (PGI‐C, CGI‐C). Melatonin treatment response on actigraphic sleep onset time did not differ between genotypes. For PER34/4 carriers, self‐reported sleep onset time was advanced by a larger amount and sleep onset latency (SOL) was shorter in melatonin‐treated patients compared to those receiving placebo (P = .008), while actigraphic sleep efficiency in the first third of the sleep episode (SE T1) did not differ. For PER3 5 carriers, actigraphic SOL and SE T1 showed a larger improvement with melatonin (P < .001). Melatonin improved ISI (P = .005), PROMIS sleep disturbance (P < .001) and sleep‐related impairment (P = .017), SDS (P = .019), PGI‐C (P = .028) and CGI‐C (P = .016) in PER34/4 individuals only. Melatonin did not advance circadian phase. Overall, PER34/4 DSWPD patients have a greater response to melatonin treatment. PER3 genotyping may therefore improve DSWPD patient outcomes.
Religious Heterogamy and the Intergenerational Transmission of Religion in China
Authors: McPhail Brian L. , Yang Fenggang
Published: July 2020

In Western societies, religious heterogamy and its effects on religious socialization outcomes have been interpreted through the lens of secularization. How about China, where religion has been resurging in recent decades? Using data from the 2007 Spiritual Life Survey of Chinese Residents, this study shows that despite China's atheist education system and strict religion policies, having at least one religiously affiliated parent is associated with increased religiosity compared to having two nonreligious parents. Whereas religious heterogamy in the West has a secularizing effect on the next generation, religious heterogamy in secular nations, such as China, has a religionizing effect and contributes to religion's rise.
Colorectal basidiobolomycosis in a dog
Authors: Marclay Margaux , Langohr Ingeborg M. , Gaschen Frederic P. , Rodrigues‐Hoffmann Aline , Carossino Mariano , Stewart Mathew A. , Myers Alexandra N. , Grooters Amy M.
Published: July 2020

A 7‐year‐old castrated male French Bulldog was examined for chronic large intestinal enteropathy. A colonic mass and thickened rectal mucosa were identified, and histopathologic examination of endoscopic biopsy specimens disclosed eosinophilic proctitis with large (5‐20 μm), irregularly shaped, pauciseptate hyphae that were Gomori methenamine silver and periodic acid‐Schiff positive. Amplification and sequencing of ribosomal DNA extracted from paraffin‐embedded tissues yielded a sequence with 97% identity to GenBank sequences for Basidiobolus ranarum. After itraconazole, terbinafine, and prednisone administration, clinical signs resolved rapidly, and sonographic lesions were largely absent after 6 weeks. Treatment was discontinued by the owner 15 weeks after diagnosis. Three weeks later, the dog collapsed acutely and was euthanized. Necropsy identified metastatic islet cell carcinoma and grossly unremarkable colorectal tissues. However, histopathology of the rectum disclosed multifocal submucosal granulomas with intralesional hyphae morphologically similar to those previously observed. This report is the first to describe medical treatment of gastrointestinal basidiobolomycosis in a dog.
The Money Study Group (MSG) at fifty: Twenty years of the MSG and another thirty of the Money, Macro, Finance Research Group (MMF)
Authors: Chrystal Alec , Capie Forrest
Published: July 2020

We discuss the origins of the Money Study Group in 1969 and its subsequent journey via the Money Macro Finance Study Group to become the Money Macro and Finance Society. It has provided a forum for debates on macroeconomics and monetary policy and has expanded to incorporate other aspects of finance. Its activities have successfully brought together academics, policy makers and city practitioners.
Epidemiologizing Culture: Scaling Chineseness through Narratives of Stigma in New York City
Authors: Mason Katherine A.
Published: July 2020

Drawing on 18 months of participation on an epidemiological research team and close analysis of in‐depth interviews the team conducted with 30 Chinese immigrants to New York City, this article traces a process I call epidemiologizing culture. In producing qualitative interview data from Chinese immigrants at risk for HIV, team members smoothed over individual variation to extract elements thought to be relevant to population‐level experiences of “Chinese culture.” Relevance was determined based on how closely the experiences of participants mirrored the behavior of a Chinese ideal type. Interviewer and interviewee collaborated in articulating and reproducing homophobic and HIV‐phobic discourses associated with Chinese culture while erasing details of lived experience, and conflating race and culture. I conclude that differing epistemic virtues make an epidemiological embrace of contemporary anthropological understandings of culture difficult. A model of “parallel play” may be an alternative approach to interdisciplinary synthesis.
Odorant binding proteins promote flight activity in the migratory insect, Helicoverpa armigera
Authors: Wang Shang , Minter Melissa , Homem Rafael A. , Michaelson Louise V. , Venthur Herbert , Lim Ka S. , Withers Amy , Xi Jinghui , Jones Christopher M. , Zhou Jing‐Jiang
Published: July 2020

Migratory insects are capable of actively sustaining powered flight for several hours. This extraordinary phenomenon requires a highly efficient transport system to cope with the energetic demands placed on the flight muscles. Here, we provide evidence that the role of the hydrophobic ligand binding of odorant binding proteins (OBPs) extends beyond their typical function in the olfactory system to support insect flight activity via lipid interactions. Transcriptomic and candidate gene analyses show that two phylogenetically clustered OBPs (OBP3/OBP6) are consistently over‐expressed in adult moths of the migrant Old‐World bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera, displaying sustained flight performance in flight activity bioassays. Tissue‐specific over‐expression of OBP6 was observed in the antennae, wings and thorax in long‐fliers of H. armigera. Transgenic Drosophila flies over‐expressing an H. armigera transcript of OBP6 (HarmOBP6) in the flight muscle attained higher flight speeds on a modified tethered flight system. Quantification of lipid molecules using mass spectrometry showed a depletion of triacylglyerol and phospholipids in flown moths. Protein homology models built from the crystal structure of a fatty acid carrier protein identified the binding site of OBP3 and OBP6 for hydrophobic ligand binding with both proteins exhibiting a stronger average binding affinity with triacylglycerols and phospholipids compared with other groups of ligands. We propose that HarmOBP3 and HarmOBP6 contribute to the flight capacity of a globally invasive and highly migratory noctuid moth, and in doing so, extend the function of this group of proteins beyond their typical role as chemosensory proteins in insects.