bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High fracture toughness of HfC through nano‐scale templating and novel sintering aids
Authors: Hao Wei , Ni Na , Guo Fangwei , Cao Fangcheng , Jiang Juan , Zhao Xiaofeng , Xiao Ping
Published: July 2018

An approach to improve the sintering ability and the fracture toughness of hafnium carbide (HfC) ceramic by designing a unique composite structure is reported. The uniform and ultra‐fine HfC nanoparticles (~300 nm) are synthesized at 1450°C by vacuum carbonization reaction with the glucose‐derived hydrothermal precursor as a carbon source and template. HfC ceramic sintered with a SiCN sintering aid of 15 vol. % possesses a beneficial three‐dimensional network microstructure composed of inter‐penetrating phases of carbon, SiC and HfC with varied stoichiometry at multi‐length scales. The obtained HfC exhibits a higher fracture toughness of 5.5 MPa m1/2, which can be attributed to the unique composite structure able to promote stress releases in the crack tip and enhance the resistance to crack propagation.
Collagen peptide modified carboxymethyl cellulose as both antioxidant drug and carrier for drug delivery against retinal ischaemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Mu Hua , Wang Yeqing , Wei Haiying , Lu Hong , Feng Zhuolei , Yu Hongmin , Xing Yue , Wang Haijing
Published: July 2018

Oxidative stress can cause injury in retinal endothelial cells. Carboxymethyl cellulose modified with collagen peptide (CMCC) is of a distinct antioxidant capacity and potentially a good drug carrier. In this study, the protective effects of CMCC against H2O2‐induced injury of primary retinal endothelial cells were investigated. In vitro, we demonstrated that CMCC significantly promoted viability of H2O2‐treated cells, efficiently restrained cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and cell apoptosis. Then, the CMCC was employed as both drug and anti‐inflammatory drug carrier for treatment of retinal ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) in rats. Animals were treated with CMCC or interleukin‐10‐loaded CMCC (IL‐10@CMCC), respectively. In comparisons, the IL‐10@CMCC treatment exhibited superior therapeutic effects, including better restoration of retinal structural thickness and less retinal apoptosis. Also, chemiluminescence demonstrated that transplantation of IL‐10@CMCC markedly reduced the retinal oxidative stress level compared with CMCC alone and potently recovered the activities of typical antioxidant enzymes, SOD and CAT. Therefore, it could be concluded that CMCC provides a promising platform to enhance the drug‐based therapy for I/R‐related retinal injury.
LncRNA HOTAIR/miR‐613/c‐met axis modulated epithelial‐mesenchymal transition of retinoblastoma cells
Authors: Yang Ge , Fu Yang , Lu Xiaoyan , Wang Menghua , Dong Hongtao , Li Qiuming
Published: July 2018

Since lncRNAs could modulate neoplastic development by modulating downstream miRNAs and genes, this study was carried out to figure out the synthetic contribution of HOTAIR, miR‐613 and c‐met to viability, apoptosis and proliferation of retinoblastoma cells. Totally 276 retinoblastoma tissues and tumour‐adjacent tissues were collected, and human retinoblastoma cell lines (ie, Y79, HXO‐Rb44, SO‐Rb50 and WERI‐RB1) were also gathered. Moreover, transfections of pcDNA3.1‐HOTAIR, si‐HOTAIR, miR‐613 mimic, miR‐613 inhibitor, pcDNA3.1/c‐met were performed to evaluate the influence of HOTAIR, miR‐613 and c‐met on viability, apoptosis and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) of retinoblastoma cells. Dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay was also arranged to confirm the targeted relationship between HOTAIR and miR‐613, as well as between miR‐613 and c‐met. Consequently, up‐regulated HOTAIR and down‐regulated miR‐613 expressions displayed associations with poor survival status of retinoblastoma patients (P < 0.05). Besides, inhibited HOTAIR and promoted miR‐613 elevated E‐cadherin expression, yet decreased Snail and Vimentin expressions (P < 0.05). Simultaneously, cell proliferation and cell viability were also less‐motivated (P < 0.05). Nonetheless, c‐met prohibited the functioning of miR‐613, resulting in promoted cell proliferation and viability, along with inhibited cell apoptosis (P < 0.05). Finally, HOTAIR was verified to directly target miR‐613, and c‐met was the direct target gene of miR‐613 (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the role of lncRNA HOTAIR/miR‐613/c‐met signalling axis in modulating retinoblastoma cells’ viability, apoptosis and expressions of EMT‐specific proteins might provide evidences for developing appropriate diagnostic and treatment strategies for retinoblastoma.
SNMDA: A novel method for predicting microRNA‐disease associations based on sparse neighbourhood
Authors: Qu Yu , Zhang Huaxiang , Liang Cheng , Ding Pingjian , Luo Jiawei
Published: July 2018

miRNAs are a class of small noncoding RNAs that are associated with a variety of complex biological processes. Increasing studies have shown that miRNAs have close relationships with many human diseases. The prediction of the associations between miRNAs and diseases has thus become a hot topic. Although traditional experimental methods are reliable, they could only identify a limited number of associations as they are time‐consuming and expensive. Consequently, great efforts have been made to effectively predict reliable disease‐related miRNAs based on computational methods. In this study, we present a novel approach to predict the potential microRNA‐disease associations based on sparse neighbourhood. Specifically, our method takes advantage of the sparsity of the miRNA‐disease association network and integrates the sparse information into the current similarity matrices for both miRNAs and diseases. To demonstrate the utility of our method, we applied global LOOCV, local LOOCV and five‐fold cross‐validation to evaluate our method, respectively. The corresponding AUCs are 0.936, 0.882 and 0.934. Three types of case studies on five common diseases further confirm the performance of our method in predicting unknown miRNA‐disease associations. Overall, results show that SNMDA can predict the potential associations between miRNAs and diseases effectively.
Hibernation constrains brain size evolution in mammals
Authors: Heldstab Sandra A. , Isler Karin , van Schaik Carel P.
Published: July 2018

The expensive brain hypothesis predicts that the lowest stable level of steady energy input acts as a strong constraint on a species’ brain size, and thus, that periodic troughs in net energy intake should select for reduced brain size relative to body mass. Here, we test this prediction for the extreme case of hibernation. Hibernators drastically reduce food intake for up to several months and are therefore expected to have smaller relative brain sizes than nonhibernating species. Using a comparative phylogenetic approach on brain size estimates of 1104 mammalian species, and controlling for possible confounding variables, we indeed found that the presence of hibernation in mammals is correlated with decreased relative brain size. This result adds to recent comparative work across mammals and amphibians supporting the idea that environmental seasonality (where in extremis hibernation is necessary for survival) imposes an energetic challenge and thus acts as an evolutionary constraint on relative brain size.
Molecular mechanisms governing plant responses to high temperatures
Authors: Li Bingjie , Gao Kang , Ren Huimin , Tang Wenqiang
Published: July 2018

The increased prevalence of high temperatures (HTs) around the world is a major global concern, as they dramatically affect agronomic productivity. Upon HT exposure, plants sense the temperature change and initiate cellular and metabolic responses that enable them to adapt to their new environmental conditions. Decoding the mechanisms by which plants cope with HT will facilitate the development of molecular markers to enable the production of plants with improved thermotolerance. In recent decades, genetic, physiological, molecular, and biochemical studies have revealed a number of vital cellular components and processes involved in thermoresponsive growth and the acquisition of thermotolerance in plants. This review summarizes the major mechanisms involved in plant HT responses, with a special focus on recent discoveries related to plant thermosensing, heat stress signaling, and HT‐regulated gene expression networks that promote plant adaptation to elevated environmental temperatures.
Identification and integrated analysis of microRNA expression profiles in keloid
Authors: Zhong Lianmei , Bian Ligong , Lyu Jing , Jin Huiyan , Liu Zijie , Lyu Lechun , Lu Di
Published: July 2018

Background

Keloid is a common abnormal cutaneous fibroproliferative disorder. However, the process underlying keloid pathogenesis still remains to be unclear.

Objective

To integrated analyse the miRNA expression profiles of keloid.

Methods

We performed miRNA expression profiles analysis of 3 paired keloid and normal tissue samples by miRNA microarray. Differentially expressed miRNAs were further performed integrative analysed and validated using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). After predicting target genes, we constructed the miRNA‐target genes interaction network and carried out bioinformatics analysis.

Results

The results revealed that 264 miRNAs were significantly altered. The expression of high frequency miRNAs which included miRNA‐199a‐5p, miRNA‐21‐5p, miRNA‐214‐5p, miRNA‐424‐5p, and miRNA‐205‐5p was further evaluated. The gene ontology (GO) analyses and the top enriched Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways showed these target genes were associated with MAPK signaling pathway and HIF‐1 signaling pathway.

Conclusion

This study revealed the profiling of miRNAs in keloid that are potentially implicated in the development of this disease and could serve as novel diagnostic and therapeutic target of keloid.
Perspectives on Disruptive Innovations
Authors: Kumaraswamy Arun , Garud Raghu , Ansari Shahzad (Shaz)
Published: July 2018

Everyday experiences speak to the accelerated pace of innovation in this era of continual change. Sometimes, innovations enhance the value of existing products and services. At other times, they render existing business models obsolete, disrupt value‐networks, prompt providers to rethink who their customers are, and lead customers to rethink what they value. What does it mean to manage in such a world of disruptive changes, and how might we research this phenomenon? Together with the contributors to this special issue, we anchor, explore and extend the meanings associated with the concept of disruptive innovation. In particular, we discuss several perspectives on disruption – evolutionary, relational, temporal and framing – that culminate in a performative (as opposed to a predictive) approach to thinking about the phenomenon. In doing so, our intention is to open up the agenda for both researchers and practitioners.
Molecular characterization of Alternaria alternata population isolated from Upper Egyptian tomato fruits
Authors: Gherbawy Youssuf , Hussein Mohamed A. , Runge Fabian , Spring Otmar
Published: July 2018

Alternaria alternata is the most common fungal pathogen of tomatoes in Upper Egypt. Morphological identification of this fungus is challenging; therefore, this study searched for new classification tools based on molecular techniques. Using a dilution plating method, 67 strains of A. alternata were isolated from 34 samples of rotten tomato fruits representing the Giza 80 and Edkawy cultivars. The collected strains were identified using the amplification products of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (Gpd) and Alt a1, which is a gene involved in the production of most of the allergens produced by A. alternata. The screening revealed that A. alternata constituted more than half of the total fungi recovered from rotten tomatoes in this study. According to the phylogenetic analysis using these three loci, the collected strains clustered in accordance with the host cultivar type from which they had been isolated. Specific gene random primer polymerase chain reaction (SGRP‐PCR) techniques indicated that the A. alternata population in the tested region has a high genetic diversity. The pathogenicity test showed that most of the A. alternata isolates (67.2%) were highly pathogenic, and no correlation was found between the phylogenetic analysis and pathogenicity. In addition, the influence of the fungicide Disan 80% on the collected strains showed significant differences that were attributed to the source of isolation.
Co‐occurrence among three divergent plant‐castrating fungi in the same Silene host species
Authors: Abbate Jessica L. , Gladieux Pierre , Hood Michael E. , de Vienne Damien M. , Antonovics Janis , Snirc Alodie , Giraud Tatiana
Published: July 2018

The competitive exclusion principle postulates that different species can only coexist in sympatry if they occupy distinct ecological niches. The goal of this study was to understand the geographical distribution of three species of Microbotryum anther‐smut fungi that are distantly related but infect the same host plants, the sister species Silene vulgaris and S. uniflora, in Western Europe. We used microsatellite markers to investigate pathogen distribution in relation to host specialization and ecological factors. Microbotryum violaceo‐irregulare was only found on S. vulgaris at high elevations in the Alps. Microbotryum lagerheimii could be subdivided into two genetically differentiated clusters, one on S. uniflora in the UK and the second on S. vulgaris in the Alps and Pyrenees. The most abundant pathogen species, M. silenes‐inflatae, could be subdivided into four genetic clusters, co‐occurring in the Alps, the UK and the Pyrenees, and was found on both S. vulgaris and S. uniflora. All three fungal species had high levels of homozygosity, in agreement with the selfing mating system generally observed in anther‐smut fungi. The three pathogen species and genetic clusters had large range overlaps, but occurred at sites with different elevations, temperatures and precipitation levels. The three Microbotryum species thus do not appear to be maintained by host specialization or geographic allopatry, but instead may occupy different ecological niches in terms of environmental conditions.
Stream flow alone does not predict population structure of diving beetles across complex tropical landscapes
Authors: Lam Athena , Toussaint Emmanuel F. A. , Kindler Carolin , Van Dam Matthew H. , Panjaitan Rawati , Roderick George K. , Balke Michael
Published: July 2018

Recent theoretical advances have hypothesized a central role of habitat persistence on population genetic structure and resulting biodiversity patterns of freshwater organisms. Here, we address the hypothesis that lotic species, or lineages adapted to comparably geologically stable running water habitats (streams and their marginal habitats), have high levels of endemicity and phylogeographic structure due to the persistent nature of their habitat. We use a nextRAD DNA sequencing approach to investigate the population structure and phylogeography of a putatively widespread New Guinean species of diving beetle, Philaccolilus ameliae (Dytiscidae). We find that P. ameliae is a complex of morphologically cryptic, but geographically and genetically well‐differentiated clades. The pattern of population connectivity is consistent with theoretical predictions associated with stable lotic habitats. However, in two clades, we find a more complex pattern of low population differentiation, revealing dispersal across rugged mountains and watersheds of New Guinea up to 430 km apart. These results, while surprising, were also consistent with the original formulation of the habitat template concept by Southwood, involving lineage‐idiosyncratic evolution in response to abiotic factors. In our system, low population differentiation might reflect a young species in a phase of range expansion utilizing vast available habitat. We suggest that predictions of life history variation resulting from the dichotomy between lotic and lentic organisms require more attention to habitat characterization and microhabitat choice. Our results also underpin the necessity to study fine‐scale processes but at a larger geographical scale, as compared to solely documenting macroecological patterns, to understand ecological drivers of regional biodiversity. Comprehensive sampling especially of tropical lineages in complex and threatened environments such as New Guinea remains a critical challenge.
On the roles of landscape heterogeneity and environmental variation in determining population genomic structure in a dendritic system
Authors: Brauer Chris J. , Unmack Peter J. , Smith Steve , Bernatchez Louis , Beheregaray Luciano B.
Published: July 2018

Dispersal and natural selection are key evolutionary processes shaping the distribution of phenotypic and genetic diversity. For species inhabiting complex spatial environments however, it is unclear how the balance between gene flow and selection may be influenced by landscape heterogeneity and environmental variation. Here, we evaluated the effects of dendritic landscape structure and the selective forces of hydroclimatic variation on population genomic parameters for the Murray River rainbowfish, Melanotaenia fluviatilis across the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia. We genotyped 249 rainbowfish at 17,503 high‐quality SNP loci and integrated these with models of network connectivity and high‐resolution environmental data within a riverscape genomics framework. We tested competing models of gene flow before using multivariate genotype–environment association (GEA) analysis to test for signals of adaptive divergence associated with hydroclimatic variation. Patterns of neutral genetic variation were consistent with expectations based on the stream hierarchy model and M. fluviatilis’ moderate dispersal ability. Models incorporating dendritic network structure suggested that landscape heterogeneity is a more important factor determining connectivity and gene flow than waterway distance. Extending these results, we also introduce a novel approach to controlling for the unique effects of dendritic network structure in GEA analyses of populations of aquatic species. We identified 146 candidate loci potentially underlying a polygenic adaptive response to seasonal fluctuations in stream flow and variation in the relative timing of temperature and precipitation extremes. Our findings underscore an emerging predominant role for seasonal variation in hydroclimatic conditions driving local adaptation and are relevant for informing proactive conservation management.
The pulmonary microvasculature entraps induced vascular progenitor cells (iVPCs) systemically delivered after cardiac ischemia‐reperfusion injury: Indication for preservation of heart function via paracrine effects beyond engraftment
Authors: Ziegler Melanie , Haigh Katharina , Nguyen Thao , Wang Xiaowei , Lim Bock , Yap May Lin , Eddy Eleanor M. , Haigh Jody J. , Peter Karlheinz
Published: July 2018

Objective

Stem cell‐based regenerative therapies have been intensively studied with the aim to define an ideal cell type for the treatment of myocardial infarction. We tested systemically delivered, platelet‐targeted induced vascular progenitor cells (iVPCs) to study their potential to salvage damaged myocardium after ischemia‐reperfusion injury.

Methods

Using a mouse model of ischemia‐reperfusion injury, we tested the potential of platelet‐targeted iVPCs (1 × 106 targ‐iVPCs) compared to non‐targ‐iVPCs and a saline control. Bioluminescence imaging, echocardiography, and histological analyses were performed.

Results

Four weeks after ischemia‐reperfusion injury, systemic delivery of targ‐iVPCs led to reduced fibrosis and infarct size (PBS: 25.7 ± 3.9 vs targ‐iVPC: 18.4 ± 6.6 vs non‐targ‐iVPC: 25.1 ± 3.7%I/LV, P < 0.05), increased neovascularization, and restored cardiac function (PBS: 44.0 ± 4.2 vs targ‐iVPC: 54.3 ± 4.5 vs non‐targ‐iVPC: 46.4 ± 3.8%EF, P < 0.01). Cell tracking experiments revealed entrapment of intravenously injected iVPCs in the pulmonary microvasculature in both cell‐treated groups.

Conclusions

Systemic delivery of iVPCs after cardiac ischemia‐reperfusion injury is limited by pulmonary entrapment of the cells. Nevertheless, targ‐iVPCs reduced infarct size, fibrosis, increased neovascularization, and most importantly retained cardiac function. These findings contribute to the mechanistic discussion of cell‐based therapy and ultimately identify activated platelet‐targeted iVPCs as candidates for cell therapy and also describe cell therapy benefits without the necessity of engrafting.
Arteriolar and capillary responses to CO2 and H+ in hamster skeletal muscle microvasculature: Implications for active hyperemia
Authors: Charter Mackenzie E. , Lamb Iain R. , Murrant Coral L.
Published: July 2018

Objective

We hypothesized that CO2 and H+ stimulate capillaries and arterioles to produce local and conducted vasodilations required to coordinate the distribution of blood flow to contracting skeletal muscle fibers.

Methods

CO2 and H+ independently and in combination were applied to 2A arterioles (first branch order from the 1A feed arteriole) and capillaries of the in situ, blood‐perfused hamster cremaster muscle. The resulting local and conducted vasodilations were measured.

Results

H+ (pH: 7.2‐6.6) and CO2 (5% and 10%) applied to the vascular network induced 2A arteriolar vasodilations, while 15% CO2 produced vasoconstriction. Localized application of H+ produced 2A arteriolar vasodilation, while 15% CO2 resulted in a variable response. Simultaneous application of CO2 and H+ did not result in the predicted additive effects. Application of CO2 and H+ alone or combined on arterioles or capillaries did not induce a conducted response.

Conclusions

CO2 and H+ produce arteriolar vasodilation but, critically, cannot stimulate the spread of vasodilation throughout the network, thus limiting their ability to coordinating blood flow to contracting skeletal muscle fibers. Given their potential for interaction, the importance of CO2 and H+ may lie in their ability to modify the effects of other vasodilators.
TheStreptococcus agalactiaecell wall‐anchored protein PbsP mediates adhesion to and invasion of epithelial cells by exploiting the host vitronectin/αvintegrin axis
Authors: De Gaetano Giuseppe Valerio , Pietrocola Giampiero , Romeo Letizia , Galbo Roberta , Lentini Germana , Giardina Miriam , Biondo Carmelo , Midiri Angelina , Mancuso Giuseppe , Venza Mario , Venza Isabella , Firon Arnaud , Trieu‐Cuot Patrick , Teti Giuseppe , Speziale Pietro , Beninati Concetta
Published: July 2018

Binding of microbial pathogens to host vitronectin (Vtn) is a common theme in the pathogenesis of invasive infections. In this study, we characterized the role of Vtn in the invasion of mucosal epithelial cells byStreptococcus agalactiae(i.e. group B streptococcus or GBS), a frequent human pathogen. Moreover, we identified PbsP, a previously described plasminogen‐binding protein of GBS, as a dual adhesin that can also interact with human Vtn through its streptococcal surface repeat (SSURE) domains. Deletion of thepbsPgene decreases both bacterial adhesion to Vtn‐coated inert surfaces and the ability of GBS to interact with epithelial cells. Bacterial adherence to and invasion of epithelial cells were either inhibited or enhanced by cell pretreatment with, respectively, anti‐Vtn antibodies or Vtn, confirming the role of Vtn as a GBS ligand on host cells. Finally, antibodies directed against the integrin αvsubunit inhibited Vtn‐dependent cell invasion by GBS. Collectively, these results indicate that Vtn acts as a bridge between the SSURE domains of PbsP on the GBS surface and host integrins to promote bacterial invasion of epithelial cells. Therefore, inhibition of interactions between PbsP and extracellular matrix components could represent a viable strategy to prevent colonization and invasive disease by GBS.
A malectin‐like/leucine‐rich repeat receptor protein kinase gene, RLK‐V, regulates powdery mildew resistance in wheat
Authors: Hu Ping , Liu Jiaqian , Xu Jiefei , Zhou Chuanyu , Cao Shuqi , Zhou Weihao , Huang Zhenpu , Yuan Sufan , Wang Xiue , Xiao Jin , Zhang Ruiqi , Wang Haiyan , Zhang Shouzhong , Xing Liping , Cao Aizhong
Published: July 2018

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) can trigger plant immunity through the recognition of pathogen‐associated molecular patterns. In this study, we report that a malectin‐like/leucine‐rich repeat receptor protein kinase gene, RLK‐V, from Haynaldia villosa putatively acts as a PRR to positively regulate powdery mildew resistance caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt) in wheat. RLK‐V has two alternatively spliced transcripts corresponding to an intact RLK‐V1.1 and a truncated RLK‐V1.2 caused by intron retention. Expression analysis showed that both transcripts could be up‐regulated by Bgt in resistant materials, whereas the functional RLK‐V1.1 was expressed only after Bgt inoculation. Promoter activity assays indicated that RLK‐V could respond to Bgt even in susceptible wheat. Silencing of RLK‐V in Pm21‐carrying resistant materials resulted in compromised resistance to Bgt. In addition, over‐expression of RLK‐V1.1 in Pm21‐lacking susceptible Yangmai158 and SM‐1 by single‐cell transient expression and stable transformation in Yangmai158 could improve powdery mildew resistance. We propose that RLK‐V regulates basal resistance to powdery mildew, which is also required for broad‐spectrum resistance mediated by the Pm21 gene. Over‐expression of RLK‐V1.1 could trigger cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana, and RLK‐V1.1 transgenic wheat accumulated more reactive oxygen species and displayed a stronger hypersensitive response than did the recipient, which led to enhanced Bgt resistance. However, constitutive activation of RLK‐V1.1 resulted in the abnormal growth of transgenic plants.
Tinea corporis by Microsporum canis in mycological laboratory staff: Unexpected results of epidemiological investigation
Authors: Gnat Sebastian , Łagowski Dominik , Nowakiewicz Aneta , Zięba Przemysław
Published: July 2018

Microsporum canis is a zoophilic dermatophyte, which is very contagious, especially to cats and dogs. Asymptomatic animal carriers of M. canis are regarded a critical factor in the epidemiology of the disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiological origin of M. canis isolates using morphological traits in combination with molecular analysis. Identification of dermatophyte strains was carried out by correlating the clinical manifestation of the infection with a micro‐ and macroscopic examination. To confirm the species affiliation fully, molecular differentiation methods were used. A positive result of the culture examination was obtained from the samples with arthrospores in the direct analysis, that is, from a symptomatic cat and humans, and from a cat without any signs of infection. The microsatellite‐primed PCR fingerprinting (MSP‐PCR) electro‐profiles were identical for all analysed strains. The melting profile‐PCR (MP‐PCR) electrophoregram indicated variability of the genomes of the strains. The search for the source of the infection indicated one cat that did not have any signs of dermatophytosis. PCR‐fingerprinting techniques are useful tools for epidemiological investigation of the origin of dermatophyte infection. These methods can also be used in many cases for species identification of dermatophytes and clarification of the relationships among varieties of a species.
Antigen B from Echinococcus granulosus is a novel ligand for C‐reactive protein
Authors: Silva‐Álvarez Valeria , Ramos Ana Lía , Folle Ana Maite , Lagos Sofía , Dee Valerie M. , Ferreira Ana M.
Published: July 2018

Antigen B (EgAgB) is a phosphatidylcholine (PC)‐rich lipoprotein of Echinococcus granulosus s.l. larva, potentially capable of modulating the activation of various myeloid cells, including macrophages. As C‐reactive protein (CRP) can act as an innate receptor with ability to bind the phosphocholine moiety of PC in lipoproteins, we investigated whether EgAgB and CRP could interact during cystic echinococcosis infection (CE), and how CRP binding could affect the modulation activities exerted by EgAgB on macrophages. To that end, we firstly investigated the occurrence of CRP induction during human CE. We found that 61% of CE patients, but none of healthy donors, exhibited serum CRP levels higher than 10 mg/mL, suggesting that CRP can be induced during the chronic phase of CE. Furthermore, human CRP was capable of binding specifically to EgAgB with high affinity (0.6 ± 0.1 nM); this binding was Ca2+‐dependent and involved the phosphocholine moiety of PC, but not EgAgB8/1, EgAgB8/2 or EgAgB8/3 apolipoproteins. Finally, CRP presence altered the modulation exerted by EgAgB on the cytokine response of LPS‐activated macrophages. Overall, our results suggest that CRP presence during CE may contribute to a complex scenario of interactions between EgAgB and myeloid cells, influencing the cytokine response induced during macrophage activation.
Volatiles of rhizobacteria Serratia and Stenotrophomonas alter growth and metabolite composition of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wenke K. , Kopka J. , Schwachtje J. , van Dongen J. T. , Piechulla B.
Published: July 2018

The emission of volatiles is a common, but mostly neglected, ability of bacteria that is important for inter‐ and intraspecific interactions. Currently, limited information is available on how the bacterial volatile (mVOC) signal is integrated into a plant's life at the physiological, transcriptional and metabolic level. Previous results provided evidence for volatile‐dependent regulation of WRKY18, a pathogen‐responsive transcription factor of Arabidopsis thaliana in co‐culture with two rhizobacteria, Serratia plymuthica HRO‐C48 and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia R3089.

Dual cultures of these bacteria and A. thaliana; application of the common mVOC 2‐phenyl‐ethanol; extraction of metabolites of A. thaliana after exposure to bacterial volatiles; and analysis of the metabolomes (GC‐TOF/MS) were carried out.

The prominent microbial aromatic compound 2‐phenyl‐ethanol, emitted by both bacteria, negatively affects growth of A. thaliana wild type, whereas WRKY18 T‐DNA insertion mutants were significantly more tolerant than wild‐type seedlings. This paper also demonstrates for the first time the impact of the rhizobacterial volatiles on the metabolome of A. thaliana. Upon mVOC exposure the plants rearrange their metabolism by accumulation of e.g. amino acids and TCA intermediates that potentially allow plants to cope with and survive this stress.

Our findings illustrate the high degree of complexity of metabolic rearrangements underlying the interactions of bacterial volatile elicitors and resulting plant responses. Furthermore, the impact of the volatile 2‐phenyl‐ethanol as a signal in the WRKY18‐dependent pathway highlights this compound as an important molecular player.
Antibacterial activity of fosetyl‐Al, ethyl‐phosphite and phosphite against Pseudomonas syringae on plant surfaces and in vitro
Authors: Bultreys A. , Gheysen I. , Rousseau G. , Pitchugina E. , Planchon V. , Magein H.
Published: July 2018

Fosetyl‐Al (the aluminium salt of ethyl‐phosphite) is an acid product used to fight oomycete diseases and sometimes used against bacterial diseases, but its antibacterial mode of action is largely unknown. Therefore, the direct effects of fosetyl‐Al and neutralized fosetyl‐Al on the colonization of leaf surfaces by Pseudomonas syringae were compared. Control of colonization was highest and almost complete in acidic conditions (99.7%), showing the importance of acidity for maximal antibacterial efficacy on plant surfaces. However, the high inhibition obtained with neutralized fosetyl‐Al (88.9%) suggested another direct effect. Therefore, it was investigated in vitro whether ethyl‐phosphite has antibacterial activity, possibly related to its phosphite content. Inhibition of P. syringae growth by ethyl‐phosphite was observed and influenced by the carbon source and by phosphate. Growth inhibition reached 83.1% in unshaken conditions in a phosphate‐depleted glucose medium. Phosphite drastically increased the effects and induced up to 99.7% growth inhibition. Mass spectrometric analysis indicated that P. syringae hydrolysed ethyl‐phosphite to phosphite using a cell‐linked phosphatase activity. Specific phosphite toxicity was observed in phosphate‐sufficient succinate media and phosphite‐induced phosphorus starvation was observed in phosphate‐depleted glucose media, indicating that ethyl‐phosphite and phosphite have direct environmental impacts on bacteria. Phosphite toxicity for P. syringae probably occurred in the phyllosphere. The study indicates the potential and limitations of fosetyl‐Al as a direct antibacterial product and helps in understanding the fosetyl‐Al control of flower bud blast in pear. It raises the prospect of using phosphite in plant bacterial disease control.
On the Ranking of Test Match Batsmen
Authors: Boys Richard J. , Philipson Peter M.
Published: July 2018

Ranking sportsmen whose careers took place in different eras is often a contentious issue and the topic of much debate. We focus on cricket and examine what conclusions may be drawn about the ranking of test batsmen by using data on batting scores from the first test in 1877 onwards. The overlapping nature of playing careers is exploited to form a bridge from past to present so that all players can be compared simultaneously, rather than just relative to their contemporaries. The natural variation in runs scored by a batsman is modelled by an additive log-linear model with year, age and cricket-specific components used to extract the innate ability of an individual cricketer. Incomplete innings are handled via censoring and a zero-inflated component is incorporated in the model to allow for an excess of frailty at the start of an innings. The innings-by-innings variation of runs scored by each batsman leads to uncertainty in their ranking position. A Bayesian approach is used to fit the model and realizations from the posterior distribution are obtained by deploying a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm. Posterior summaries of innate player ability are then used to assess uncertainty in ranking position and this is contrasted with rankings determined via the posterior mean runs scored. Posterior predictive checks show that the model provides a reasonably accurate description of runs scored.
Does normalization of voluntary EMG amplitude to MMAX account for the influence of electrode location and adiposity?
Authors: Lanza Marcel B. , Balshaw Thomas G. , Massey Garry J. , Folland Jonathan P.
Published: July 2018

Voluntary surface electromyography (sEMG) amplitude is known to be influenced by both electrode position and subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness, and these factors likely compromise both between‐ and within‐individual comparisons. Normalization of voluntary sEMG amplitude to evoked maximum M‐wave parameters (MMAX peak‐to‐peak [P‐P] and Area) may remove the influence of electrode position and subcutaneous tissue thickness. The purpose of this study was to: (a) assess the influence of electrode position on voluntary, evoked (MMAX P‐P and Area), and normalized sEMG measurements across the surface of the vastus lateralis (VL; experiment 1: n = 10); and (b) investigate if MMAX normalization removes the confounding influence of subcutaneous tissue thickness [muscle‐electrode distance (MED) from ultrasound imaging] on sEMG amplitude (experiment 2; n = 41). Healthy young men performed maximum voluntary contractions (MVCs) and evoked twitch contractions during both experiments. Experiment 1: voluntary sEMG during MVCs was influenced by electrode location (P ≤ 0.046, ES≥1.49 “large”), but when normalized to MMAX P‐P showed no differences between VL sites (P = 0.929) which was not the case when normalized to MMAX Area (P < 0.004). Experiment 2: voluntary sEMG amplitude was related to MED, which explained 31%‐38% of the variance. Normalization of voluntary sEMG amplitude to MMAX P‐P or MMAX Area reduced but did not consistently remove the influence of MED which still explained up to 16% (MMAX P‐P) and 23% (MMAX Area) of the variance. In conclusion, MMAX P‐P was the better normalization parameter for removing the influence of electrode location and substantially reduced but did not consistently remove the influence of subcutaneous adiposity.
Noninvasive profiling of sweat‐derived lipid mediators for cutaneous research
Authors: Agrawal Karan , Sivamani Raja K. , Newman John W.
Published: July 2018

Background and objective

Recent increases in the use of noninvasive matrices for biomedical analysis has led to interest in the evaluation of sweat for both clinical and research applications. However, despite being one of the two main cutaneous secretions, until very recently, only one study actually analyzed sweat in the context of cutaneous disease. This review attempts to make the case for increased use of sweat in cutaneous research, and discusses lipid mediators as potential analytical targets in sweat.

Methods

Sweat composition and its relationship with the skin and systemic circulation are discussed, as are practical considerations for sweat sampling and analysis. Previous analyses of lipid mediators in skin biopsies are provided to show that lipid mediators can regulate cutaneous processes and disease pathways. Summaries of recent studies involving the analysis of sweat lipid mediators are provided to demonstrate the utility of sweat lipid mediator testing to support future cutaneous research studies.

Results

Sweat has the potential to reflect both local and systemic biochemical changes in response to disease or intervention, and two recent studies of sweat lipid mediators confirm this ability. Additionally, sweat lipid mediators appear to be temporally stable with individual variability comparable to other matrices, suggesting that these analytes could be useful biomarkers.

Conclusions

Sweat metabolites may be capable of reporting changes in cutaneous biochemical pathways, thereby providing insight into the immunomodulatory biochemistry of the skin. Lipid mediator analysis of sweat appears to be a non invasive approach that could enhance existing cutaneous research and diagnostic methodologies.
Detecting and quantifying activity/inflammation in localized scleroderma with thermal imaging
Authors: Ranosz‐Janicka I. , Lis‐Święty A. , Skrzypek‐Salamon A. , Brzezińska‐Wcisło L.
Published: July 2018

Background

The disease phase in localized scleroderma (LoS) is commonly assessed by clinical investigation using the LoS cutaneous assessment tool (LoSCAT). There is a need for more objective methods for assessing the degree of activity/inflammation in LoS. The aim of our work was to evaluate the correlation between severity of the LoS lesions scored using LoSCAT and the degree of hyperthermia observed with infrared thermography (IRT).

Materials and methods

The LoS lesions were examined using the LoSCAT and IRT independently by two examiners. The average temperature (Tavg) of the LoS lesional dermis were measured in the area of each lesion with the highest score for erythema (ER), skin thickness (ST), dermal atrophy (DAT) and subcutaneous atrophy (SAT). Measurements were compared to the contralateral healthy skin. The difference of the Tavg (ΔTavg) was calculated between each lesion and its normal control.

Results

One hundred and four LoS lesions were examined in 40 adults. Thirty‐one lesions were erythematous, 26 were sclerotic, 35 presented as atrophy of the dermis and 11 as atrophy of the subcutaneous tissue. The sensitivity and specificity of IRT for detecting activity/inflammation were 80.7% and 86.3%, respectively. The positive predictive value was 71%, negative predictive value 91%. Statistically significant positive correlation was found between the ΔTavg and the clinical ER and DAT scores.

Conclusion

IRT may be a useful method for assessing erythematous LoS lesions and quantifying the degree of activity/inflammation. Knowing the patient, false positive results attributable to more severe degree of skin and subcutaneous fat atrophy can be easily recognized.
Recent advancement in the early detection of melanoma using computerized tools: An image analysis perspective
Authors: Singh Nivedita , Gupta Shailendra K.
Published: July 2018

Background

The paper reviews the advancement of tools and current technologies for the detection of melanoma. We discussed several computational strategies from pre‐ to postprocessing image operations, descriptors, and popular classifiers to diagnose a suspected skin lesion based on its virtual similarity to the malignant lesion with known histopathology. We reviewed the current state of smart phone‐based apps as diagnostic tools for screening.

Methods

A literature survey was conducted using a combination of keywords in the bibliographic databases: PubMed, AJCC, PH2, EDRA, and ISIC melanoma project. A number of melanoma detection apps were downloaded for two major mobile operating systems, iOS and Android; their important uses, key challenges, and various expert opinions were evaluated and also discussed.

Results

We have provided an overview of research on the computer‐aided diagnosis methods to estimate melanoma risk and early screening. Dermoscopic images are the most viable option for the advent of new image processing technologies based on which many of the skin cancer detection apps are being developed recently. We have categorized and explored their potential uses, evaluation criteria, limitations, and other details.

Conclusion

Such advancements are helpful in the sense they are raising awareness. Diagnostic accuracy is the major issue of smart phone‐based apps and it cannot replace an adequate clinical experience and biopsy procedures.
Dapsone safety in hematology patients: Pathways to optimizing Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia prophylaxis in hematology malignancy and transplant recipients
Authors: Urbancic Karen F. , Pisasale Daisy , Wight Joel , Trubiano Jason A.
Published: July 2018

Dapsone may be used for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) prophylaxis in hematology patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy or after hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) in the setting of trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole (TMP‐SMX) adverse drug reaction (ADR) history. Dapsone‐induced hematological toxicities such as oxidative hemolysis may limit use in these patients and modern assessments of dapsone allergy cross‐reactivity in non‐HIV patients with a sulfonamide allergy are largely absent. The aim of this single‐centre, retrospective study was to describe dapsone usage in hematology patients requiring PJP prophylaxis, including HSCT recipients, over a 12‐month period in terms of indications, incidence of dapsone‐attributed oxidative hemolysis, and immune cross‐reactivity in those previously labeled with a sulfonamide allergy, as well as describing potential opportunities for first‐line TMP‐SMX PJP prophylaxis reintroduction. Of 24 patients meeting the study inclusion criteria, 12 (50%) were receiving dapsone PJP prophylaxis post‐HSCT. No cases of breakthrough PJP infection were noted. Sixteen patients (67%) were initiated on dapsone to avoid the perceived risk of further myelosuppression with TMP‐SMX and five patients (21%) because of prior delayed immune‐mediated allergy to TMP‐SMX. None experienced rash with dapsone therapy. Six patients (25%) were successfully rechallenged on TMP‐SMX, including one patient with prior TMP‐SMX‐associated rash. Four (17%) patients had confirmed oxidative hemolysis, all resulting in dapsone cessation. Dapsone PJP prophylaxis in hematology patients was effective and safe, with nonlife threatening dapsone‐related hemolysis noted in a small number. An absence of sulfonamide allergy cross‐reactivity was noted, suggesting greater TMP‐SMX rechallenges or desensitization could be considered in those receiving dapsone.
The transgender population: improving awareness for gynaecologists and their role in the provision of care
Authors: Price Suzanne , McManus Joanne , Barrett James
Published: July 2018

Key content

The UK's transgender and non‐binary population is expanding, and this is reflected in the annual number of referrals to gender identity clinics.

Gender identity clinics offer a wide range of care to transgender patients, including hormone treatment and gender reassignment surgery; however, increased demand has led to long waiting times for these clinics.

All transgender patients who wish to transition should be offered a fertility consultation to explore their options, which may involve fertility preservation such as sperm or oocyte cryopreservation.

Gynaecologists form a part of the multidisciplinary team who engage with transgender and non‐binary patients, either as part of the transition stage performing surgery or managing pre‐ or post‐transition gynaecological problems.

Gynaecologists should be aware of the potential barriers to health care often faced by transgender patients, and how the way in which patients are addressed during a consultation can improve their experience within the healthcare system.

Learning objectives

To provide clinicians with an understanding of what transitioning entails for transgender and non‐binary patients, and the multidisciplinary input they receive during this process.

To improve clinicians’ understanding of when transgender and non‐binary patients may access gynaecological services.

To ensure that affirmative language and communication is used when interacting with transgender and non‐binary patients to strengthen patient encounters in a progressive and positive manner.
Characterization of filament‐forming CTP synthases from Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Daumann Manuel , Hickl Daniel , Zimmer David , DeTar Rachael A. , Kunz Hans‐Henning , Möhlmann Torsten
Published: July 2018

Cytidine triphosphate (CTP) is essential for DNA, RNA and phospholipid biosynthesis. De novo synthesis is catalyzed by CTP synthases (CTPS). Arabidopsis encodes five CTPS isoforms that unanimously share conserved motifs found across kingdoms, suggesting all five are functional enzymes. Whereas CTPS1–4 are expressed throughout Arabidopsis tissues, CTPS5 reveals exclusive expression in developing embryos. CTPS activity and substrates affinities were determined for a representative plant enzyme on purified recombinant CTPS3 protein. As demonstrated in model organisms such as yeast, fruit fly and mammals, CTPS show the capacity to assemble into large filaments called cytoophidia. Transient expression of N‐ and C‐terminal YFP‐CTPS fusion proteins in Nicotiana benthamiana allowed to monitor such filament formation. Interestingly, CTPS1 and 2 always appeared as soluble proteins, whereas filaments were observed for CTPS3, 4 and 5 independent of the YFP‐tag location. However, when similar constructs were expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, no filaments were observed, pointing to a requirement for organism‐specific factors in vivo. Indications for filament assembly were also obtained in vitro when recombinant CTPS3 protein was incubated in the presence of CTP. T‐DNA‐insertion mutants in four CTPS loci revealed no apparent phenotypical alteration. In contrast, CTPS2 T‐DNA‐insertion mutants did not produce homozygous progenies. An initial characterization of the CTPS protein family members from Arabidopsis is presented. We provide evidence for their involvement in nucleotide de novo synthesis and show that only three of the five CTPS isoforms were able to form filamentous structures in the transient tobacco expression system. This represents a striking difference from previous observations in prokaryotes, yeast, Drosophila and mammalian cells. This finding will be highly valuable to further understand the role of filament formation to regulate CTPS activity.