bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metamorphic zoning and behaviour of an underthrusting continental plate
Authors: Möller Charlotte , Andersson Jenny
Published: January 2018

Lower continental plates of collision zones are normally inaccessible and their properties inferred by geophysical surveying. By contrast, the eastern margin of the deeply eroded 1‐billion‐year‐old Sveconorwegian Orogen in Scandinavia exposes an underthrusting lower continental plate that records the metamorphic evolution and behaviour during collisional orogeny. A 200 km wide structurally coherent belt of the mid‐ to upper levels of the underthrusting lower plate, composed of Proterozoic igneous protoliths, exposes the gradual transition from unmetamorphosed to high‐P granulite facies. Metamorphic assemblages in Fe–Ti‐rich metagabbro in a continuous ~120 km wide transect across the lower continental plate define a regional metamorphic zoning by eight zones. Significant metamorphic recrystallization is first recorded at conditions of lower to middle amphibolite facies (550–600°C), progressing successively towards the contact with the upper plate to high‐P granulite facies at ~850°C and 10–11 kbar, the latter corresponding to ~40 km depth. An eclogite‐bearing tectonic terrane, detached from the leading edge of the underthrusting plate and extruded back along the interface with the overlying crust, occurs just beneath the lithotectonic contact of the overriding plate. The gradual metamorphic transition demonstrates that, with the exception of the eclogite‐bearing terrane, the underthrusting plate remained essentially structurally coherent despite highly ductile deformation and partial melting. The metamorphic rocks record that, by and large, the underthrusting plate underwent short‐lived metamorphic recrystallization and deformation that started first at an advanced stage of collision, at c. 980–970 Ma; this is in contrast to the eclogite‐bearing terrane which records more protracted metamorphic recrystallization both through prograde metamorphism and decompression. The investigated section is the first described in situ exposure of a coherent underthrusting lower continental plate, and defines a metamorphic field gradient at higher temperatures and P/T than the classical Barrovian style. The exposed section provides potential for increasing understanding of the thermal evolution, rheology, petrophysical properties and distribution of volatiles in an elsewhere inaccessible part of Earth's collisional systems. The data demonstrate that the underthrusting lower continental plate differs in metamorphic character from other parts of orogenic systems in that the crust is relatively dry, competent and responds by significant metamorphic recrystallization first at elevated temperatures (middle amphibolite facies) and that metamorphic recrystallization is largely coupled to deformation that facilitates the entry of hydrous fluids into the crust.
Bidirectional variation in glutamate efflux in the medial prefrontal cortex induced by selective positive and negative allosteric mGluR5 modulators
Authors: Isherwood Sarah N. , Robbins Trevor W. , Dalley Jeffrey W. , Pekcec Anton
Published: January 2018

Dysregulation of prefrontal cortical glutamatergic signalling via NMDA receptor hypofunction has been implicated in cognitive dysfunction and impaired inhibitory control in such neuropsychiatric disorders as schizophrenia, attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder and drug addiction. Although NMDA receptors functionally interact with metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5), the consequence of this interaction for glutamate release in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) remains unknown. We therefore investigated the effects of positive and negative allosteric mGluR5 modulation on changes in extracellular glutamate efflux in the medial PFC (mPFC) induced by systemic administration of the non‐competitive NMDA receptor antagonist dizocilpine (or MK801) in rats. Extracellular glutamate efflux was measured following systemic administration of the positive allosteric mGluR5 modulator [S‐(4‐Fluoro‐phenyl)‐{3‐[3‐(4‐fluoro‐phenyl)‐[1,2,4]‐oxadiazol‐5‐yl]‐piperidin‐1‐yl}‐methanone] (ADX47273; 100 mg/kg, p.o.) and negative allosteric mGluR5 modulator [2‐chloro‐4‐{[1‐(4‐fluorophenyl)‐2,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐imidazol‐4‐yl]ethynyl}pyridine] (RO4917523; 0.3 mg/kg, p.o.), using a wireless glutamate biosensor in awake, freely moving rats. The effect of MK801 (0.03–0.06 mg/kg, s.c.) on mPFC glutamate efflux was also investigated in addition to the effects of MK801 (0.03 mg/kg, s.c.) following ADX47273 (100 mg/kg, p.o.) pre‐treatment. ADX47273 produced a sustained increase in glutamate efflux and increased the effect of NMDA receptor antagonism on glutamate efflux in the mPFC. In contrast, negative allosteric mGluR5 modulation with RO4917523 decreased glutamate efflux in the mPFC. These findings indicate that positive and negative allosteric mGluR5 modulators produce long lasting and opposing actions on extracellular glutamate efflux in the mPFC. Positive and negative allosteric modulators of mGluR5 may therefore be viable therapeutic agents to correct abnormalities in glutamatergic signalling present in a range of neuropsychiatric disorders.

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Kinetic modeling of [18F]VAT, a novel radioligand for positron emission tomography imaging vesicular acetylcholine transporter in non‐human primate brain
Authors: Jin Hongjun , Yue Xuyi , Liu Hui , Han Junbin , Flores Hubert , Su Yi , Parsons Stanley M. , Perlmutter Joel S. , Tu Zhude
Published: January 2018

Molecular imaging of vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) in the brain provides an important cholinergic biomarker for the pathophysiology and treatment of dementias including Alzheimer's disease. In this study, kinetics modeling methods were applied and compared for quantifying regional brain uptake of the VAChT‐specific positron emission tomography radiotracer, ((−)‐(1‐(‐8‐(2‐fluoroethoxy)‐3‐hydroxy‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydronaphthalen‐2‐yl)piperidin‐4‐yl)(4‐fluorophenyl)‐methanone) ([18F]VAT) in macaques. Total volume distribution (VT) estimates were compared for one‐tissue compartment model (1TCM), two‐tissue compartment model (2TCM), Logan graphic analysis (LoganAIF) and multiple linear analysis (MA1) with arterial blood input function using data from three macaques. Using the cerebellum‐hemispheres as the reference region with data from seven macaques, three additional models were compared: reference tissue model (RTM), simplified RTM (SRTM), and Logan graphic analysis (LoganREF). Model selection criterion indicated that a) 2TCM and SRTM were the most appropriate kinetics models for [18F]VAT; and b) SRTM was strongly correlated with 2TCM (Pearson's coefficients r > 0.93, p < 0.05). Test–retest studies demonstrated that [18F]VAT has good reproducibility and reliability (TRV < 10%, ICC > 0.72). These studies demonstrate [18F]VAT is a promising VAChT positron emission tomography tracer for quantitative assessment of VAChT levels in the brain of living subjects.

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Ndrg2 deficiency ameliorates neurodegeneration in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Le Thuong Manh , Takarada‐Iemata Mika , Ta Hieu Minh , Roboon Jureepon , Ishii Hiroshi , Tamatani Takashi , Kitao Yasuko , Hattori Tsuyoshi , Hori Osamu
Published: January 2018

N‐myc downstream‐regulated gene 2 (NDRG2) is a differentiation‐ and stress‐associated molecule that is predominantly expressed in astrocytes in the central nervous system. In this study, we examined the expression and role of NDRG2 in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), which is an animal model of multiple sclerosis. Western blot and immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the expression of NDRG2 was observed in astrocytes of spinal cord, and was enhanced after EAE induction. A comparative analysis of wild‐type and Ndrg2−/− mice revealed that deletion of Ndrg2 ameliorated the clinical symptoms of EAE. Although Ndrg2 deficiency only slightly affected the inflammatory response, based on the results of flow cytometry, qRT‐PCR, and immunohistochemistry, it significantly reduced demyelination in the chronic phase, and, more importantly, neurodegeneration both in the acute and chronic phases. Further studies revealed that the expression of astrocytic glutamate transporters, including glutamate aspartate transporter (GLAST) and glutamate transporter 1, was more maintained in the Ndrg2−/− mice compared with wild‐type mice after EAE induction. Consistent with these results, studies using cultured astrocytes revealed that Ndrg2 gene silencing increased the expression of GLAST, while NDRG2 over‐expression decreased it without altering the expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein. The effect of NDRG2 on GLAST expression was associated with the activation of Akt, but not with the activation of nuclear factor‐kappa B. These findings suggest that NDRG2 plays a key role in the pathology of EAE by modulating glutamate metabolism.

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Cover Image for this Issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.14173.
A dual role for Integrin α6β4 in modulating hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies
Authors: Poitelon Yannick , Matafora Vittoria , Silvestri Nicholas , Zambroni Desirée , McGarry Claire , Serghany Nora , Rush Thomas , Vizzuso Domenica , Court Felipe A. , Bachi Angela , Wrabetz Lawrence , Feltri Maria Laura
Published: January 2018

Peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) is a component of compact myelin in the peripheral nervous system. The amount of PMP22 in myelin is tightly regulated, and PMP22 over or under‐expression cause Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth 1A (CMT1A) and Hereditary Neuropathy with Pressure Palsies (HNPP). Despite the importance of PMP22, its function remains largely unknown. It was reported that PMP22 interacts with the β4 subunit of the laminin receptor α6β4 integrin, suggesting that α6β4 integrin and laminins may contribute to the pathogenesis of CMT1A or HNPP. Here we asked if the lack of α6β4 integrin in Schwann cells influences myelin stability in the HNPP mouse model. Our data indicate that PMP22 and β4 integrin may not interact directly in myelinating Schwann cells, however, ablating β4 integrin delays the formation of tomacula, a characteristic feature of HNPP. In contrast, ablation of integrin β4 worsens nerve conduction velocities and non‐compact myelin organization in HNPP animals. This study demonstrates that indirect interactions between an extracellular matrix receptor and a myelin protein influence the stability and function of myelinated fibers.

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Faim2 contributes to neuroprotection by erythropoietin in transient brain ischemia
Authors: Komnig Daniel , Gertz Karen , Habib Pardes , Nolte Kay W. , Meyer Tareq , Brockmann Marc A. , Endres Matthias , Rathkolb Birgit , Hrabě de Angelis Martin ,   German Mouse Clinic Consortium, Schulz Jörg B. , Falkenburger Björn H. , Reich Arno
Published: January 2018

Delayed cell death in the penumbra region of acute ischemic stroke occurs through apoptotic mechanisms, making it amenable to therapeutic interventions. Fas/CD95 mediates apoptotic cell death in response to external stimuli. In mature neurons, Fas/CD95 signaling is modulated by Fas‐apoptotic inhibitory molecule 2 (Faim2), which reduces cell death in animal models of stroke, meningitis, and Parkinson disease. Erythropoietin (EPO) has been studied as a therapeutic strategy in ischemic stroke. Erythropoietin stimulates the phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase/Akt (PI3K/Akt) pathway, which regulates Faim2 expression. Therefore, up‐regulation of Faim2 may contribute to neuroprotection by EPO. Male Faim2‐deficient mice (Faim2−/−) and wild‐type littermates (WT) were subjected to 30 min of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) followed by 72 h of reperfusion. EPO was applied before (30 min) and after (24 and 48 h) MCAo. In WT mice application of EPO at a low dose (5000 U/kg) significantly reduced stroke volume, whereas treatment with high dose (90 000 U/kg) did not. In Faim2−/− animals administration of low‐dose EPO did not result in a significant reduction in stroke volume. Faim2 expression as measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) increased after low‐dose EPO but not with high dose. An extensive phenotyping including analysis of cerebral vessel architecture did not reveal confounding differences between the genotypes. In human post‐mortem brain Faim2 displayed a differential expression in areas of penumbral ischemia. Faim2 up‐regulation may contribute to the neuroprotective effects of low‐dose erythropoietin in transient brain ischemia. The dose‐dependency may explain mixed effects of erythropoietin observed in clinical stroke trials.

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Hemispatial neglect and serial order in verbal working memory
Authors: Antoine Sophie , Ranzini Mariagrazia , van Dijck Jean‐Philippe , Slama Hichem , Bonato Mario , Tousch Ann , Dewulf Myrtille , Bier Jean‐Christophe , Gevers Wim
Published: January 2018

Working memory refers to our ability to actively maintain and process a limited amount of information during a brief period of time. Often, not only the information itself but also its serial order is crucial for good task performance. It was recently proposed that serial order is grounded in spatial cognition. Here, we compared performance of a group of right hemisphere‐damaged patients with hemispatial neglect to healthy controls in verbal working memory tasks. Participants memorized sequences of consonants at span level and had to judge whether a target consonant belonged to the memorized sequence (item task) or whether a pair of consonants were presented in the same order as in the memorized sequence (order task). In line with this idea that serial order is grounded in spatial cognition, we found that neglect patients made significantly more errors in the order task than in the item task compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, this deficit seemed functionally related to neglect severity and was more frequently observed following right posterior brain damage. Interestingly, this specific impairment for serial order in verbal working memory was not lateralized. We advance the hypotheses of a potential contribution to the deficit of serial order in neglect patients of either or both (1) reduced spatial working memory capacity that enables to keep track of the spatial codes that provide memorized items with a positional context, (2) a spatial compression of these codes in the intact representational space.
Olfactory receptor neuronal dendrites become mostly intra‐sustentacularly enwrapped upon maturity
Authors: Liang Fengyi
Published: January 2018

The mammalian olfactory epithelium (OE) sustains persistent neurogenesis even in the adult. Sustentacular cells therein play both epithelial and neuroglial roles, although their relation with olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) and their function in ORN maturation remain insufficiently understood. Sustentacular wrapping of ORN dendrites has been long known but always considered a minor presence, as opposed to the supposedly unwrapped majority of ORN dendrites at inter‐sustentacular borderlines. Using immunofluorescence, confocal and immuno‐electron microscopy, the current study examined cytoarchitectonic organization and maturation of ORN dendrites at the rat OE apical layer. Contrary to common belief, the observations here on tangential histological sections of the OE apical junctional belt layer showed on average 53.93% sustentacular cell‐enwrapped, 18.46% partially wrapped (in the vertical grooves on the sides of sustentacular apices) and 27.61% unwrapped ORN dendrites (at the borderlines between sustentacular cells). The enwrapped dendrites were found within the confines of sustentacular apices but linked to the sides of the latter each by a mesentery (mesodendrite) of sustentacular plasma membranes and autotypic cell junctions. Up to six dendrites were seen in one sustentacular apical process. As marked by high and low immunoreactivity for class III beta‐tubulin, respectively, immature and mature ORN dendrites accounted on average for 12.46 and 87.54% of the total ORN dendrites at the OE apical layer. By correlative analysis of the maturity level and wrapping status, most immature ORN dendrites were found unwrapped (immature unwrapped = 9.71% of the total dendrites), and practically no immature dendrites appeared enwrapped. In contrast, mature ORN dendrites comprised all the enwrapped (mature enwrapped = 53.93% of the total), most of the partially wrapped (mature partially wrapped = 15.71% of the total) and a portion of the unwrapped ORN dendrites (mature unwrapped = 17.9% of the total dendrites). Based on the current findings and previous data by other researchers, it is concluded that immature ORN dendrites emerge vertically from the OE apical surface between sustentacular cell apices. A large majority of the newly emerged dendrites then undergo sideways migration, sustentacular enwrapment and further maturation. Only a small minority of the newly emerged dendrites reach maturity and remain unwrapped. These divergent maturational courses imply structural or functional differences between the enwrapped and unwrapped mature ORN dendrites.
Labour commodification, differentiation, and marginalization of the peasantry in Sella Limba (Sierra Leone) from 1950 to the present
Authors: Palliere Augustin , Paul Jean‐Luc , Cochet Hubert
Published: January 2018

In Sierra Leone, migration to diamond fields and the development of cash crops have contributed to the increasing integration of the peasantry in the national and global economy. Based on the study of a small northern chiefdom, Sella Limba, we describe how the labour commodification have led to the perversion of “traditional” social relations based on anteriority, and to the break‐up of large domestic groups into smaller, more precarious ones. At the same time, manual agriculture has been marginalized by massive cheap rice imports and remained very low in capital intensity. In this context, we show how low labour productivity curtails opportunities for long‐term social and economic differentiation. Farmers combine “modern” and “traditional” social relations, developing hybrid accumulation strategies that are sometimes close to mere survival.
Clinical and immunohistochemical comparative study of the efficacy of carboxytherapy vs platelet‐rich plasma in treatment of stretch marks
Authors: Hodeib Abeer A , Hassan Ghada F R , Ragab Marwa N M , Hasby Eiman A
Published: January 2018

Background

Striae distensae are dermal scars with a linear atrophic depression. The exact origin of striae distensae remains unrevealed, but low expression of collagen and fibronectin genes in the affected tissue was found. Several treatment modalities have been proposed, yet no consistent modality is available.

Aim of the work

To evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of carboxytherapy vs platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) in treatment of stretch marks.

Patients and methods

This study included 20 patients with striae alba. Every patient received treatment in the form of PRP injection in their right side (group A) and carboxytherapy session in their left side (group B) every 3‐4 weeks for 4 sessions. Skin biopsies were taken before and after treatment, and they were subjected to fibronectin immunohistochemical stain.

Results

There was a significant improvement in striae alba in both groups after than before treatment. There was no significant difference between both groups as regards either percentage of improvement, response (grading scale), or patient satisfaction. The fibronectin‐stained area was significantly higher in both groups after than before treatment, and it was significantly higher after treatment in group (B) than group (A).

Conclusions

Both methods were safe and effective with minimal side effects. There was no significant difference between both methods of treatments. This was confirmed histopathologically by fibronectin expression which is found to be low in striae and increased significantly after treatment. But fibronectin expression was higher in group (B) than (A).
Comparative evaluation of skin moisture after topical application of 10% and 30% lactobionic acid
Authors: Algiert‐Zielińska Barbara , Mucha Paulina , Rotsztejn Helena
Published: January 2018

Background

Dry skin is characterized by symptoms such as itching, redness, excessive exfoliation. These symptoms cause discomfort and contribute to secondary bacterial infections. Dry skin treatments are based on topical applications of various formulations. Among many of them are polyhydroxy acids, which recently gained more attention.

Aims

The aim of this study was a comparative assessment of hydration level (corneometric) after application of lactobionic acid (LA) in the form of peel at concentrations of 10% and 30%.

Material and Methods

The study involved 10 Caucasian individuals aged 26‐73 years. Eight treatments were performed at weekly intervals. The peels were applied using the “Split face” method—on the left side of the face 10% LA, and the right side 30% LA which consisted of specified concentration of LA, deionized water, xanthan gum, ethoxydiglycol. The test subjects received a 5% LA cream for overnight use. The cream consisted of deionized water, LA, isopropyl palmitate, ascorbyl palmitate, methylparaben. The products for this study were provided by Grehen Ltd. Celestynów, Poland. Prior to each procedure, the skin hydration level was measured using Corneometer CM 825 from Courage + Khazaka electronic GmbH.

Results

There was a statistically significant improvement in hydration level after 8 treatments for all measuring points and both concentrations. The difference of the skin hydration level between 10% LA and 30% LA could not be determined.

Conclusions

Lactobionic acid is a highly moisturizing agent. There was no significant difference in moisturizing effect between 10% LA concentration and 30% LA concentration.
Effectiveness and quality of life 10 years after transobturator suburethral tape surgery for stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Celada Paula , Cañete Patricia , Ortiz Murillo Ester , Tarín Juan J. , Cano Antonio
Published: January 2018

Aim

We aimed to measure the effectiveness and quality of life (QoL) 10 years after transobturator suburethral tape surgery.

Methods

We carried out a prospective observational study of 42 women assessed 10 years after surgical intervention with the transobturator technique. The main outcome measures were subjective and objective cure or improvement, complications, and changes in QoL.

Results

The median abdominal leak point pressure had been 92 (82–113) mL H2O prior to surgery. Thirty‐six women (85.7%) remained cured (negative cough test) and 13 (31%) reported urine leakage during physical activity, percentages which were similar to those at a previous assessment at the 5th year. Urgency urinary incontinence was reported by 18 women (42.9%), 16 of whom required the use of anticholinergic drugs. Nineteen women had undergone some form of surgical pelvic reconstruction concomitantly with the TOT procedure, four of whom presented with relapse. The QoL tests indicated that cure and improvement persisted in 85.7% (n = 36, Urogenital Distress Inventory‐6) and 92.9% (n = 39, Incontinence Impact Questionnaire‐7) of the 42 evaluable women, respectively.

Conclusion

Rates of objective and subjective effectiveness remained stable after 10 years of surgery and QoL did not deteriorate significantly during that interval. The increase in urgency incontinence needs to be further investigated.
Involvement of immune cells in the pathogenesis of endometriosis
Authors: Izumi Gentaro , Koga Kaori , Takamura Masashi , Makabe Tomoko , Satake Erina , Takeuchi Arisa , Taguchi Ayumi , Urata Yoko , Fujii Tomoyuki , Osuga Yutaka
Published: January 2018

Endometriosis is characterized by the implantation and growth of endometriotic tissues outside the uterus. It is widely accepted the theory that endometriosis is caused by the implantation of endometrial tissue from retrograde menstruation; however, retrograde menstruation occurs in almost all women and other factors are required for the establishment of endometriosis, such as cell survival, cell invasion, angiogenesis, and cell growth. Immune factors in the local environment may, therefore, contribute to the formation and progression of endometriosis. Current evidence supports the involvement of immune cells in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Peritoneal neutrophils and macrophages secrete biochemical factors that help endometriotic cell growth and invasion, and angiogenesis. Peritoneal macrophages and NK cells in endometriosis have limited capability of eliminating endometrial cells in the peritoneal cavity. An imbalance of T cell subsets leads to aberrant cytokine secretions and inflammation that results in the growth of endometriosis lesions. It is still uncertain whether these immune cells have a role in the initial cause and/or stimulate actions that enhance disease; however, in either case, modulating the actions of these cells may prevent initiation or disease progression. Further studies are needed to deepen the understanding of the pathology of endometriosis and to develop novel management approaches of benefit to women suffering from this disease.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of the associations between maternal methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase polymorphisms and preterm delivery
Authors: Fang Qiwen , Jiang Yixuan , Liu Zhenqiu , Zhang Zhijie , Zhang Tiejun
Published: January 2018

Aim

To date, reported associations between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphisms and preterm delivery are conflicting. The present meta‐analysis summarized the existing evidence and evaluated these associations.

Methods

Eligible studies were retrieved from Medline (PubMed), EMBASE, the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database and the Cochrane Library. We calculated pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence interval (CIs) within five genetic models using either random‐effects or fixed‐effects models dependent on study heterogeneity. Potential publication bias was assessed using a Begg’s test. Sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the stability of the results.

Results

Thirteen studies involving 4816 mothers who experienced preterm delivery and 34 506 normal controls were finally included. Significant associations between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and the risk of preterm delivery were detected overall (ORT/C = 1.34, 95% CI 1.12–1.61; ORTT/CC = 1.60, 95% CI 1.21–2.11; ORCT/CC = 1.33, 95% CI 1.07–1.65; ORTT/(CC + CT) = 1.41, 95% CI 1.11–1.78; OR(TT + CT)/CC = 1.36, 95% CI 1.11–1.66) and in an Asian population (ORT/C = 1.80, 95% CI 1.24–2.62; ORTT/CC = 2.13, 95% CI 1.27–3.57; ORCT/CC = 1.93, 95% CI 1.37–2.71; OR(TT + CT)/CC = 2.03, 95% CI 1.49–2.77). Negative associations of the A1298C polymorphism were only observed among Asian pregnant women (ORC/A = 0.66, 95% CI 0.50–0.88; ORCC/AA = 0.10, 95% CI 0.02–0.53; ORCC/(AA + AC) = 0.11, 95% CI 0.02–0.57; OR(CC + AC)/AA = 0.68, 95% CI 0.49–0.94).

Conclusions

MTHFR 677 T may play a significant role in regard to the risk of preterm delivery, especially in the Asian population.
Prediction of histological chorioamnionitis and neonatal and infantile outcomes using procalcitonin in the umbilical cord blood and amniotic fluid at birth
Authors: Horinouchi Takashi , Yoshizato Toshiyuki , Kozuma Yutaka , Shinagawa Takaaki , Muto Megumi , Yamasaki Tsuyoshi , Hori Daizo , Ushijima Kimio
Published: January 2018

Aim

We aimed to clarify the usefulness of procalcitonin (PCT) in the evaluation of histological chorioamnionitis (CAM) and in the prediction of neonatal and infantile outcomes as a reference of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6).

Methods

Subjects were 36 singleton pregnant women delivered at 22–37 weeks’ gestation due to threatened premature delivery and/or preterm premature rupture of membranes. Cases were classified into the CAM and non‐CAM groups, according to Blanc's criteria. Comparisons were made on umbilical venous and amniotic fluid PCT levels among the groups. The relations between umbilical venous PCT and IL‐6 levels and neonatal and infantile outcomes were also analyzed.

Results

The umbilical venous PCT level in the CAM group (240.2 pg/mL, 125.4–350.3 pg/mL: median, first quartile–third quartile) was higher than that in the non‐CAM group (105.1, 50.2–137.5 pg/mL; P = 0.0006). There were no differences in the amniotic fluid PCT levels between the groups. There was a strong correlation between umbilical venous PCT and IL‐6 levels (correlation coefficient: 0.793). Among 10 cases with an umbilical venous PCT level of ≥170.0 pg/mL and six cases with IL‐6 ≥ 11.0 pg/mL, six (60.0%) and five cases (83.3%), respectively, had adverse neonatal and infantile outcomes. Among seven cases with adverse neonatal and infantile outcomes, six (85.7%) and five (71.4%) cases showed umbilical venous PCT levels of ≥170.0 pg/mL and IL‐6 levels of ≥11.0 pg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion

Similar to IL‐6, the umbilical venous PCT level is a promising parameter for predicting histological CAM and adverse neonatal and infantile outcomes related to in utero inflammatory status.
Legal Marriage, Unequal Recognition, and Mental Health Among Same‐Sex Couples
Authors: LeBlanc Allen J. , Frost David M. , Bowen Kayla
Published: January 2018

The authors examined whether the perception of unequal relationship recognition ‐ a novel couple‐level minority stressor ‐ has negative consequences for mental health among same‐sex couples. Data were analyzed from a dyadic study of 100 same‐sex couples (200 individuals) in the United States. Being in a legal marriage was associated with lower perceived unequal recognition and better mental health; being in a registered domestic partnership or civil union—but not also legally married—was associated with greater perceived unequal recognition and worse mental health. Actor partner interdependence models tested associations between legal relationship status, unequal relationship recognition, and mental health (nonspecific psychological distress, depressive symptomatology, and problematic drinking), net controls (age, gender, race and ethnicity, education, and income). Unequal recognition was consistently associated with worse mental health, independent of legal relationship status. Legal changes affecting relationship recognition should not be seen as simple remedies for addressing the mental health effects of institutionalized discrimination.
English and discourses of commodification among tourism workers in the Himalayas
Authors: Sharma Bal Krishna
Published: January 2018

In this article, I investigate commodification discourses and ideologies of English from the perspective of Nepali tourism workers. Drawing data from interviews with porters and trekking guides in Nepal, I argue that English is not seen as merely a transactional means to convey meaning; it works in combination with the traditional form of labor and care in the local economy, establishing itself as a powerful tool to establish closer interpersonal relationships, enhance such interpersonal relationships for economic gains and commodify local identities and cultures in the tourism market. The interview and ethnographic details show that language learners are agentive and capable of making sense of their actions by positioning themselves variously in terms of ethnicity, economic class and job category. These workers think that tourists' linguistic and financial resources are the empowering tools that enable them to travel to locations that they want. They also want to empower themselves with English skills and translocal imaginaries to travel and see the world beyond their immediate reach. Repertoires in English are considered as instruments to mediate their imaginaries and the foreign worlds they want to be part of.
Historical biogeography of Melicope (Rutaceae) and its close relatives with a special emphasis on Pacific dispersals
Authors: Appelhans Marc S. , Wen Jun , Duretto Marco , Crayn Darren , Wagner Warren L.
Published: January 2018

The genus Melicope (Rutaceae) occurs on most Pacific archipelagos and is perfectly suited to study Pacific biogeography. The main goal was to infer the age, geographic origin and colonization patterns of Melicope and its relatives. We sequenced three nuclear and two plastid markers for 332 specimens that represent 164 species in 16 genera of Rutaceae. Phylogenetic reconstruction, molecular dating, ancestral area reconstruction and diversification analyses were carried out. The two main clades (Acronychia‐Melicope and Euodia) originated in Australasia and their crown ages are dated to the Miocene. Diversification rates differed among the subclades and were lowest in the Euodia lineage and highest in the Hawaiian Melicope lineage. The Malagasy and Mascarene species form a clade, which split from its SE Asian relatives in the Pliocene/Pleistocene. At least eight colonizations to the Pacific islands occurred. The timing of all colonizations except for the Hawaiian group is congruent with age of the island ages. Australia, New Guinea and New Caledonia have been the source of colonizations into the Pacific islands in the Melicope clade. Melicope shows high dispersability and has colonized remote archipelagos such as the Austral and Marquesas Islands each twice. Colonization of islands of the Hawaiian‐Emperor seamount chain likely predates the ages of the current main islands, and the initial colonization to Kaua'i occurred after the splitting of the Hawaiian lineage into two subclades. Wider ecological niches and adaptations to bird‐dispersal likely account for the much higher species richness in the Acronychia‐Melicope clade compared to the Euodia clade.
Occult HBV infection in HIV‐infected adults and evaluation of pooled NAT for HBV
Authors: Dinesha T. R. , Boobalan J. , Sivamalar S. , Subashini D. , Solomon S. S. , Murugavel K. G. , Balakrishnan P. , Smith D. M. , Saravanan S.
Published: January 2018

The study aimed to determine the prevalence of occult hepatitis B virus infection among HIV‐infected persons and to evaluate the use of a pooling strategy to detect occult HBV infection in the setting of HIV infection. Five hundred and two HIV‐positive individuals were tested for HBV, occult HBV and hepatitis C and D with serologic and nucleic acid testing (NAT). We also evaluated a pooled NAT strategy for screening occult HBV infection among the HIV‐positive individuals. The prevalence of HBV infection among HIV‐positive individuals was 32 (6.4%), and occult HBV prevalence was 10%. The pooling HBV NAT had a sensitivity of 66.7% and specificity of 100%, compared to HBV DNA NAT of individual samples. In conclusion, this study found a high prevalence of occult HBV infection among our HIV‐infected population. We also demonstrated that pooled HBV NAT is highly specific, moderately sensitive and cost‐effective. As conventional HBV viral load assays are expensive in resource‐limited settings such as India, pooled HBV DNA NAT might be a good way for detecting occult HBV infection and will reduce HBV‐associated complications.
Understanding and addressing hepatitis C reinfection in the oral direct‐acting antiviral era
Authors: Falade‐Nwulia O. , Sulkowski M. S. , Merkow A. , Latkin C. , Mehta S. H.
Published: January 2018

The availability of effective, simple, well‐tolerated oral direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) hepatitis C regimens has raised optimism for hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination at the population level. HCV reinfection in key populations such as people who inject drugs (PWID) and HIV‐infected men who have sex with men (MSM) however threatens the achievement of this goal from a patient, provider and population perspective. The goal of this review was to synthesize our current understanding of estimated rates and factors associated with HCV reinfection. This review also proposes interventions to aid understanding of and reduce hepatitis C reinfection among PWID and HIV‐infected MSM in the oral direct‐acting antiviral era.
Phytoplankton as biomonitors: A study of Museum Lake in Government Botanical Garden and Museum, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala India
Authors: Ajayan Anila P. , Ajit Kumar K. G.
Published: January 2018

An assessment of the pollution status of Museum Lake in the Thiruvananthapuram Botanical Garden and Museum was conducted. Analysis of different community structures of the planktonic taxa in the lake revealed it is organically polluted, attributable to the organic litter from riparian vegetation. A total of 30 most pollution‐tolerant phytoplankton genera and 24 pollution‐tolerant species were identified. Pollution‐tolerant phytoplankton genera in the lake included Chlorophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Cyanophyceae and Euglenophyceae. Scenedesmus, Pinnularia, Euglena, Ankistrodesmus, Closterium, Crucigenia, Kirchneriella, Merismopedia and Oscillatoria were some of the phytoplankton pollution tolerant genera whereas, Nitzschia palea, Synedra acus, Scenedesmus quadricauda, Pandorina morum and Trachelomonas volvocina were some of the pollution tolerant species noted. Excessive nutrient loading from the surrounding area is definitely degrading the quality of this urban lake ecosystem. Detailed information regarding the pollution status of a waterbody is very important in this regard, noting it ultimately assists in undertaking proper management of a waterbody. The Palmer Algal Index score for Museum Lake was 37, indicating it is highly organic enriched. The results of different algal indices (e.g. Chlorophycean Index; Nygaard Index) indicated a eutrophic condition for Museum Lake, being attributed to its increased organic enrichment. Canonical correspondence analysis between environmental variables and the microalgal bioindicators also highlighted the influence of the physical and chemical parameters on phytoplankton abundance and distribution in Museum Lake.
Infant and young child feeding in emergencies: Organisational policies and activities during the refugee crisis in Lebanon
Authors: Shaker‐Berbari Linda , Ghattas Hala , Symon Andrew G. , Anderson Annie S.
Published: January 2018

Appropriate infant and young child feeding (IYCF) is key to reducing mortality amongst children aged under 2. Facilitating adherence to recommended IYCF practices during emergencies includes having relevant policies to support breastfeeding and complementary feeding as well as regulating the distribution of breast milk substitutes. In the current crisis, more than 1.2 million Syrian refugees are in Lebanon and it is timely to examine organisational IYCF policies and programmes. One hundred and thirty‐five non‐governmental organisations providing humanitarian aid in Lebanon were invited to participate in an online survey about organisational policies and programmatic activities on IYCF. Responses were obtained from 54 organisations: 29 International Non‐Governmental Organisations (INGOs) and 25 Local Non‐Governmental Organisations (LNGOs). In total, 8 (15%) reported having a written policy on IYCF, but only 1 policy (in draft format) was available for inspection. Twelve (8 INGOs and 4 LNGOs) indicated endorsing an external IYCF policy, but only 6 listed a valid policy. Four organisations (3 INGOs and 1 LNGO) had programme objectives that indicate protection, promotion, and support of IYCF. Three LNGOs reported receiving infant formula donations and 5 organisations (2 INGOs and 3 LNGOs) indicated distributing infant formula; 2 (1 INGO and 1 LNGO) did so in accordance with international and national policies. Few organisations violated IYCF guidance but organisational policies and activities on IYCF are not well established. In order to improve response in the current refugee crisis in Lebanon, there is a need to ensure policies are in place and implemented so that interventions support, promote, and protect IYCF.
Genomic islands of differentiation in two songbird species reveal candidate genes for hybrid female sterility
Authors: Mořkovský Libor , Janoušek Václav , Reif Jiří , Rídl Jakub , Pačes Jan , Choleva Lukáš , Janko Karel , Nachman Michael W. , Reifová Radka
Published: January 2018

Hybrid sterility is a common first step in the evolution of postzygotic reproductive isolation. According to Haldane's Rule, it affects predominantly the heterogametic sex. While the genetic basis of hybrid male sterility in organisms with heterogametic males has been studied for decades, the genetic basis of hybrid female sterility in organisms with heterogametic females has received much less attention. We investigated the genetic basis of reproductive isolation in two closely related avian species, the common nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos) and the thrush nightingale (L. luscinia), that hybridize in a secondary contact zone and produce viable hybrid progeny. In accordance with Haldane's Rule, hybrid females are sterile, while hybrid males are fertile, allowing gene flow to occur between the species. Using transcriptomic data from multiple individuals of both nightingale species, we identified genomic islands of high differentiation (FST) and of high divergence (Dxy), and we analysed gene content and patterns of molecular evolution within these islands. Interestingly, we found that these islands were enriched for genes related to female meiosis and metabolism. The islands of high differentiation and divergence were also characterized by higher levels of linkage disequilibrium than the rest of the genome in both species indicating that they might be situated in genomic regions of low recombination. This study provides one of the first insights into genetic basis of hybrid female sterility in organisms with heterogametic females.
Genetic background affects pathogenicity island function and pathogen emergence in Streptomyces
Authors: Zhang Yucheng , Jiang Guangde , Ding Yousong , Loria Rosemary
Published: January 2018

With few exceptions, thaxtomin A (ThxA), a nitrated diketopiperazine, is the pathogenicity determinant for plant‐pathogenic Streptomyces species. In Streptomyces scabiei (syn. S. scabies), the ThxA biosynthetic cluster is located within a 177‐kb mobile pathogenicity island (PAI), called the toxicogenic region (TR). In S. turgidiscabies, the ThxA biosynthetic cluster is located within a 674‐kb pathogenicity island (PAIst). The emergence of new plant pathogens occurs in this genus, but not frequently. This raises the question of whether the mobilization of these pathogenicity regions, through mating, is widespread and whether TR and PAIst can confer plant pathogenicity. We showed that ThxA biosynthetic clusters on TR and PAIst were transferred into strains from five non‐pathogenic Streptomyces species through mating with S. scabiei and S. turgidiscabies. However, not all of the transconjugants produced ThxA and exhibited the virulence phenotype, indicating that the genetic background of the recipient strains affects the functionality of the ThxA biosynthetic cluster and therefore would be expected to affect the emergence of novel pathogenic Streptomyces species. Thxs have been patented as natural herbicides, but have yet to be commercialized. Our results also demonstrated the potential of the heterologous production of ThxA as a natural and biodegradable herbicide in non‐pathogenic Streptomyces species.
Carving out the nation with the enemy's kin: double strategy of boundary‐making in Transnistria and Abkhazia
Authors: Dembińska Magdalena
Published: January 2018

The 1992–1993 civil wars in Moldova and in Georgia ended with a de facto separation of Transnistria and Abkhazia, respectively. These de facto states are both inhabited by the kin to the ‘enemy’ across the administrative border: Moldovans and Georgians/Mingrelians. How do the de facto authorities foster a collective identity in support of their claim for legitimacy and statehood? Engaging with Wimmer's taxonomy of boundary‐making, this article argues that nation‐building involves not only expansion but also, simultaneously, contraction. Transnistria constructs a higher‐level identity category and co‐opts and contracts the Moldovan category, separating it into ‘our’ and Bessarabian Moldovans in order to incorporate the former into the Transnistrian people. In Abkhazia, the nation‐building project establishes the Abkhazs as the titular nation allowing, however, for the construction of an Abkhazian people that would include minorities, with Gal/i Georgians said to be Mingrelians, distinct from Georgians. These cases show that elites combine different ethnic boundary‐making strategies in order to implement their favoured identity project and to legitimize the claimed statehood.
Sjögren's syndrome X‐chromosome dose effect: An epigenetic perspective
Authors: Mougeot J‐LC , Noll BD , Bahrani Mougeot FK
Published: January 2018

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting exocrine glands leading to mouth and eyes dryness. The extent to which epigenetic DNA methylation changes are responsible for an X‐chromosome dose effect has yet to be determined. Our objectives were to (i) describe how epigenetic DNA methylation changes could explain an X‐chromosome dose effect in SS for women with normal 46,XX genotype and (ii) determine the relevant relationships to this dose effect, between X‐linked genes, genes controlling X‐chromosome inactivation (XCI) and genes encoding associated transcription factors, all of which are differentially expressed and/or differentially methylated in the salivary glands of patients with SS. We identified 58 upregulated X‐chromosome genes, including 22 genes previously shown to escape XCI, based on the analysis of SS patient salivary gland GEO2R gene expression datasets. Moreover, we found XIST and its cis regulators RLIM, FTX, and CHIC1, and polycomb repressor genes of the PRC1/2 complexes to be upregulated. Many of the X‐chromosome genes implicated in SS pathogenesis can be regulated by transcription factors which we found to be overexpressed and/or differentially methylated in patients with SS. Determination of the mechanisms underlying methylation‐dependent gene expression and impaired XCI is needed to further elucidate the etiopathogenesis of SS.
Transcription factor EB influences invasion and migration in oral squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Sakamoto H , Yamashita K , Okamoto K , Kadowaki T , Sakai E , Umeda M , Tsukuba T
Published: January 2018

Objective

Transcription factor EB (TFEB) is a master regulator of lysosomal biogenesis and plays an important role in various cancers. However, the function of TFEB in oral squamous cell carcinomas has not been examined. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of TFEB in oral squamous cell carcinomas.

Materials and Methods

Expression levels of TFEB were examined in six different human oral squamous carcinoma cells: HSC2, HSC3, HSC4, SAS, OSC20, and SCC25. Knockdown of TFEB using small interfering RNA in HSC2 and HSC4 cells was performed. Cell morphology was observed by immunofluorescence microscopy. Cell proliferation, invasion, and adhesion were analyzed.

Results

Expression levels of TFEB were high in HSC2, moderate in HSC4 and SCC25, and low in HSC3 and OSC20 cells. Knockdown of TFEB did not affect proliferation of HSC2 and HSC4 cells, but did induced enlargement of lysosomes and endosomes in HSC4 cells. TFEB silencing reduced invasion and migration of these HSC cell squamous carcinoma cells; however, increased cell adhesion was also observed.

Conclusion

TFEB knockdown reduces invasion and migration of cancer cells, likely through lysosomal regulation. Taken together, TFEB influences cell invasion and migration of oral squamous cell carcinomas.