bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Astrocytic changes with aging and Alzheimer's disease‐type pathology in chimpanzees
Authors: Munger Emily L. , Edler Melissa K. , Hopkins William D. , Ely John J. , Erwin Joseph M. , Perl Daniel P. , Mufson Elliott J. , Hof Patrick R. , Sherwood Chet C. , Raghanti Mary Ann
Published: December 2018

Astrocytes are the main homeostatic cell of the central nervous system. In addition, astrocytes mediate an inflammatory response when reactive to injury or disease known as astrogliosis. Astrogliosis is marked by an increased expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and cellular hypertrophy. Some degree of astrogliosis is associated with normal aging and degenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other dementing illnesses in humans. The recent observation of pathological markers of AD (amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles) in aged chimpanzee brains provided an opportunity to examine the relationships among aging, AD‐type pathology, and astrocyte activation in our closest living relatives. Stereologic methods were used to quantify GFAP‐immunoreactive astrocyte density and soma volume in layers I, III, and V of the prefrontal and middle temporal cortex, as well as in hippocampal fields CA1 and CA3. We found that the patterns of astrocyte activation in the aged chimpanzee brain are distinct from humans. GFAP expression does not increase with age in chimpanzees, possibly indicative of lower oxidative stress loads. Similar to humans, chimpanzee layer I astrocytes in the prefrontal cortex are susceptible to AD‐like changes. Both prefrontal cortex layer I and hippocampal astrocytes exhibit a high degree of astrogliosis that is positively correlated with accumulation of amyloid beta and tau proteins. However, unlike humans, chimpanzees do not display astrogliosis in other cortical layers. These results demonstrate a unique pattern of cortical aging in chimpanzees and suggest that inflammatory processes may differ between humans and chimpanzees in response to pathology.
Quantitative Isoperimetry à la Levy‐Gromov
Authors: Cavalletti F. , Maggi F. , Mondino A.
Published: December 2018

On a Riemannian manifold with a positive lower bound on the Ricci tensor, the distance of isoperimetric sets from geodesic balls is quantitatively controlled in terms of the gap between the isoperimetric profile of the manifold and that of a round sphere of suitable radius. The deficit between the diameters of the manifold and of the corresponding sphere is likewise bounded. These results are actually obtained in the more general context of (possibly nonsmooth) metric measure spaces with curvature‐dimension conditions through a quantitative analysis of the transport rays decompositions obtained by the localization method. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessment of cell block technique in head and neck pathology diagnoses: A preliminary study
Authors: Desai Karishma M. , Angadi Punnya V. , Kale Alka D. , Hallikerimath Seema
Published: December 2018

Objective

The head and neck region is a composite site made of multiple tissue components. These tissues when affected by disease or pathology present with an array of changes in the tissue architecture and pattern. It is essential to visualize the cellular details and tissue patterns for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Aspiration cytology primarily makes use of the cellular details for diagnosing lesions of the head and neck. Despite the promising results, its use is still limited in certain cases of the head and neck. The reason implicated could be the indiscernible appearance of cells in the absence of tissue integrity. In this regard, cell blocks are known to facilitate the visualization of the cytomorphological as well as the tissue arrangement patterns. Thus, the present study was designed to evaluate the role of cell block cytology in the diagnosis of various lesions of the head and neck.

Methods

Odontogenic lesions, epithelial carcinomas and connective tissue pathology of the head and neck origin were included in the study (n = 45). Aspiration cytology smears and cell block diagnosis were compared with tissue biopsy diagnosis for determining their sensitivity (%) and diagnostic efficacy.

Results

Cell blocks showed distinct preservation of the architectural pattern. In case of fluid‐filled lesions, the contents were preserved and correlated with the tissue biopsy results. The results of cell blocks were similar to that of tissue biopsy in majority of the cases (95.56%).

Conclusion

We recommend using cell blocks as a part of routine laboratory practice for all head‐neck cases.
Higher pulse pressure predicts initiation of dialysis in Japanese patients with diabetes
Authors: Osawa Taeko , Fujihara Kazuya , Harada Mayuko , Yamamoto Masahiko , Ishizawa Masahiro , Suzuki Hiroshi , Ishiguro Hajime , Matsubayashi Yasuhiro , Seida Hiroyasu , Yamanaka Nauta , Tanaka Shiro , Shimano Hitoshi , Kodama Satoru , Sone Hirohito
Published: December 2018

Aims

To determine incidence and predictors of starting dialysis in patients with diabetes emphasizing blood pressure variables.

Methods

A nationwide database with claim data on 18 935 people (15 789 men and 3146 women) with diabetes mellitus aged 19 to 72 years in Japan was used to elucidate predictors for starting dialysis. Initiation of dialysis was determined from claims using ICD‐10 codes and medical procedures. Using multivariate Cox modelling, interactions between glycaemic and blood pressure values were determined.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 5.3 years, incidence of dialysis was 0.81 per 1000 person‐years. Multivariate analysis of a model involving systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) simultaneously as covariates showed that hazard ratios (HRs) for starting dialysis for each 1‐SD elevation in SBP and DBP were 2.05 (95% confidence interval 1.58‐2.64) and 0.66 (0.50‐0.88), respectively, implying that pulse pressure (PP) was a promising predictor. For confirmation, a model involving SBP and PP simultaneously as covariates demonstrated that HRs for each 1‐SD elevation in SBP and PP were 1.09 (0.81‐1.48) and 1.54 (1.14‐2.08), respectively, with PP the more potent predictor. Compared with HbA1c <8% and PP <60 mmHg, the HR for those with HbA1c ≥8% and PP ≥60 mmHg was 6.32 (3.42‐11.7).

Conclusions

In our historical cohort analysis, SBP and PP were independent predictors for starting dialysis. PP was the more potent, suggesting the contribution of increased arterial stiffness to the incidence of dialysis. Future studies are needed to conclude the independent influence of PP and HbA1c on dialysis considering other risk factors.
Roflumilast analogs with improved metabolic stability, plasma protein binding, and pharmacokinetic profile
Authors: Moussa Bahia A. , El‐Zaher Asmaa A. , El‐Ashrey Mohamed K. , Fouad Marwa A.
Published: December 2018

With the aim of studying their in vitro and in vivo pharmacokinetics, new chromatographic methods were developed for the determination of three new roflumilast synthetic analogs (I−III) as PDE‐4B inhibitors in rat liver S9 fraction, phosphate buffered saline, pH 7.4, and human and rat plasma. The developed high performance liquid chromatography−ultra violet (HPLC−UV) methods were performed on a Zorbax Eclipse C8 column and UV detection was carried out at 215 nm. The three compounds were tested for their metabolic stability and were found to be metabolically more stable than roflumilast especially the 2‐mercaptobenzothiazol‐6‐yl analog (III) which displayed an in vitro half‐life time (247.55 minutes) higher than that of roflumilast (12.29 minutes) and a low in vitro clearance of 5.67 mL/min./kg. Possible phase I metabolites were investigated using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography−tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) showing hydroxylation of the unsubstituted benzothiazol‐2‐yl (I) and benzothiazole‐6‐yl (II) analogs and a cleaved benzothiazole metabolite of the 2‐mercaptobenzothiazol‐6‐yl analog (III). Plasma protein binding affinity was tested using equilibrium membrane dialysis method showing a very high percentage (more than 95%) of plasma protein binding of compounds I and II where compound III exhibited lower percentage (53.71%) demonstrating its accessibility for tissue distribution. Also, a UPLC–MS/MS method was developed using an Acquity UPLC BEH shield RP C18 column to be applied to an in vivo pharmacokinetic study in rats following a subcutaneous dose (1 mg/kg). Compounds I−III showed improved in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters especially compound III which displayed a half‐life 3‐fold greater than roflumilast (21 hours) and a Cmax value of 113.958 ng/mL. Accordingly, this new chemical entity should be subjected to further investigation as it can be a good drug candidate for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Nutrient export and elemental stoichiometry in an urban tropical river
Authors: McDowell William H. , McDowell William G. , Potter Jody D. , Ramírez Alonso
Published: December 2018

Nutrient inputs to surface waters are particularly varied in urban areas, due to multiple nutrient sources and complex hydrologic pathways. Because of their close proximity to coastal waters, nutrient delivery from many urban areas can have profound impacts on coastal ecology. Relatively little is known about the temporal and spatial variability in stoichiometry of inorganic nutrients such as dissolved silica, nitrogen, and phosphorus (Si, N, and P) and dissolved organic matter in tropical urban environments. We examined nutrient stoichiometry of both inorganic nutrients and organic matter in an urban watershed in Puerto Rico served by municipal sanitary sewers and compared it to two nearby forested catchments using samples collected weekly from each river for 6 yr. Urbanization caused large increases in the concentration and flux of nitrogen and phosphorus (2‐ to 50‐fold), but surprisingly little change in N:P ratio. Concentrations of almost all major ions and dissolved silica were also significantly higher in the urban river than the wildland rivers. Yield of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) was not increased dramatically by urbanization, but the composition of dissolved organic matter shifted toward N‐rich material, with a larger increase in dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) than DOC. The molar ratio of DOC:DON was about 40 in rivers draining forested catchments but was only 10 in the urban river. Inclusion of Si in the assessment of urbanization's impacts reveals a large shift in the stoichiometry (Si:N and Si:P) of nutrient inputs. Because both Si concentrations and watershed exports are high in streams and rivers from many humid tropical catchments with siliceous bedrock, even the large increases in N and P exported from urban catchments result in delivery of Si, N, and P to coastal waters in stoichiometric ratios that are well in excess of the Si requirements of marine diatoms. Our data suggest that dissolved Si, often neglected in watershed biogeochemistry, should be included in studies of urban as well as less developed watersheds due to its potential significance for marine and lacustrine productivity.
An experimental investigation into the use of eye‐contact in social interactions in women in the acute and recovered stages of anorexia nervosa
Authors: Harrison Amy , Watterson Stephanie V. , Bennett Samuel D.
Published: December 2018

Objective

People with anorexia nervosa (AN) report significant difficulties in social functioning and a growing literature is beginning to explain some of the differences in social skills that might underlie the social challenges experienced by patients. One vital area of social functioning that has been largely neglected to date is how eye‐contact is used in the context of social stimuli and in social situations.

Methods

This cross‐sectional, experimental study used eye‐tracking to measure the frequency and duration of eye‐contact made with the eye region of interest (ROI) of (1) static social stimuli (man and woman Ekman faces displaying basic emotions); (2) moving social stimuli (a video of two actors conversing); and (3) during a real‐life social interaction in 75 women (25 with AN, 25 recovered from AN, and 25 non‐AN controls; mean age = 27.18, SD = 6.19).

Results

Participants showed greater eye‐contact during a real‐life social interaction than when viewing static social stimuli. Those with AN made contact with the eye ROI of the static and moving social stimuli and during a real‐life social interaction significantly less often and for significantly less time than non‐AN controls. Those recovered from AN showed greater eye‐contact than the acute group but significantly less eye‐contact with the eye ROI across the static and moving social stimuli and during the real‐life social interaction than non‐AN controls.

Discussion

These findings contribute new knowledge regarding the types of social skills that people with AN may need additional support with to allow them to make greater use of social support in their recovery.
Applying family‐based treatment (FBT) to three clinical presentations of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder: Similarities and differences from FBT for anorexia nervosa
Authors: Lock James , Robinson Athena , Sadeh‐Sharvit Shiri , Rosania Kimberly , Osipov Lilya , Kirz Nina , Derenne Jennifer , Utzinger Linsey
Published: December 2018

Objective

This article uses three brief case reports to illustrate how family‐based treatment (FBT) can be used to treat pre‐adolescents with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID).

Method

We present case material illustrating how FBT can be used in three different clinical presentations of ARFID: (1) low appetite and lack of interest; (2) sensory sensitive eaters; and (3) fear of aversive consequences eaters—all without shape or weight concerns.

Results

This case material illustrates that the main principles of FBT—agnosticism as to the cause of the illness, externalization, emphasizing the seriousness of ARFID, parental empowerment, behavioral consultation, and practical behavioral focus—are applicable for a range of ARFID clinical presentations. Common challenges in this patient group include (1) promoting urgency; (2) challenging long term behavioral accommodation; (3) lack of parental alignment, parental fatigue, (4) and co‐morbid psychiatric problems in the patients. Strategies to address these problems are described.

Conclusion

FBT can be adapted for children with ARFID using the main principles of the approach.
Weight gain trajectories during outpatient family‐based treatment for adolescents with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Lebow Jocelyn , Sim Leslie , Crosby Ross D. , Goldschmidt Andrea B. , Le Grange Daniel , Accurso Erin C.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Given that weight gain patterns in adolescents receiving outpatient Family‐Based Treatment (FBT) have not been characterized, the purpose of this study was to examine trajectories of weight gain in a group of adolescent patients with a restrictive eating disorder [e.g., anorexia nervosa (AN) and atypical AN] receiving FBT. This study also examined the association of patient characteristics with weight gain trajectories, including age, diagnosis, weight suppression, presenting BMI‐for‐age percentile, and eating pathology.

Method

Latent growth mixture modeling was used to identify distinct weight trajectories, as defined by change in BMI‐for‐age percentile, for 153 adolescents with AN or atypical AN, receiving FBT.

Results

There were five distinct weight gain trajectory profiles for adolescents receiving FBT for a restrictive eating disorder. Younger age and greater weight suppression were associated with more rapid weight gain trajectories. A pattern of slow and consistent weight gain was associated with older age and less eating pathology.

Discussion

There was considerable variability in weight gain trajectories in youth receiving outpatient FBT for a restrictive eating disorder. This suggests that patients' presenting information can be used to inform expectations regarding weight gain trajectories.
Depressive symptoms, alcohol and other drug use, and suicide risk: Prevention and treatment effects from a two‐country online eating disorder risk reduction trial
Authors: Wilksch Simon M. , O'Shea Anne , Wade Tracey D.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Eating disorders are known to have high comorbidity, and the current report outlines the impact of an online eating disorder risk reduction program on brief, self‐report measures of depressive symptoms, alcohol and other drug use, and suicidality.

Method

An online pragmatic, randomized‐controlled trial was conducted with N = 316 young‐women (M age = 20.80 years) across Australia and New Zealand. Media Smart‐Targeted (MS‐T) was a 9‐module program released weekly while control participants received positive body image tips. Prevention effects (asymptomatic at baseline) and treatment effects (symptomatic at baseline) were investigated.

Results

MS‐T participants were 94% and 91% less likely than controls to develop Moderate or higher depressive symptoms at 6‐month (MS‐T = 3.3%; controls = 35.4%) and 12‐month follow‐up (MS‐T = 3.4%; controls = 29.4%), respectively. MS‐T participants did not commence using recreational drugs at any assessment point, compared to 18.2% of controls at a least one assessment point. Regarding treatment effects, MS‐T participants were 84% more likely to no longer be using recreational drugs at 12‐month follow‐up (MS‐T = 60%; controls = 21.1%). Mutitvariate logistic regressions revealed group, depressive symptoms and alcohol use to be significant predictors of elevated suicide risk, where being an MS‐T participant, without depressive symptoms and not drinking alcohol, significantly lowered likelihood of developing elevated suicide risk. Disordered eating at post‐program mediated the relationship between group and depressive symptoms across post‐program to 12‐mnoth follow‐up.

Discussion

MS‐T shows promise as a program with important mental health benefits in addition to previous reports of lowered eating disorder diagnosis, risk and impairment.
Biogeographical network analysis of plant species distribution in the Mediterranean region
Authors: Lenormand Maxime , Papuga Guillaume , Argagnon Olivier , Soubeyrand Maxence , De Barros Guilhem , Alleaume Samuel , Luque Sandra
Published: December 2018

The delimitation of bioregions helps to understand historical and ecological drivers of species distribution. In this work, we performed a network analysis of the spatial distribution patterns of plants in south of France (Languedoc‐Roussillon and Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'Azur) to analyze the biogeographical structure of the French Mediterranean flora at different scales. We used a network approach to identify and characterize biogeographical regions, based on a large database containing 2.5 million of geolocalized plant records corresponding to more than 3,500 plant species. This methodology is performed following five steps, from the biogeographical bipartite network construction to the identification of biogeographical regions under the form of spatial network communities, the analysis of their interactions, and the identification of clusters of plant species based on the species contribution to the biogeographical regions. First, we identified two sub‐networks that distinguish Mediterranean and temperate biota. Then, we separated eight statistically significant bioregions that present a complex spatial structure. Some of them are spatially well delimited and match with particular geological entities. On the other hand, fuzzy transitions arise between adjacent bioregions that share a common geological setting, but are spread along a climatic gradient. The proposed network approach illustrates the biogeographical structure of the flora in southern France and provides precise insights into the relationships between bioregions. This approach sheds light on ecological drivers shaping the distribution of Mediterranean biota: The interplay between a climatic gradient and geological substrate shapes biodiversity patterns. Finally, this work exemplifies why fragmented distributions are common in the Mediterranean region, isolating groups of species that share a similar eco‐evolutionary history.
Traditionally managed landscapes do not prevent amphibian decline and the extinction of paedomorphosis
Authors: Denoël Mathieu , Ficetola G. Francesco , Sillero Neftali , Džukić Georg , Kalezić Miloš L. , Vukov Tanja , Muhovic Irma , Ikovic Vuk , Lejeune Benjamin
Published: December 2018

Eco‐cultural landscapes are assumed to be favorable environments for the persistence of biodiversity, but global change may affect differently their terrestrial and aquatic components. Few long‐term studies have examined how multiple, global change stressors may affect wetland biodiversity in such environments. Facultative paedomorphosis is a spectacular example of intra‐specific variation, in which biphasic (metamorphosing) amphibians coexist with fully aquatic conspecifics that do not metamorphose (paedomorphs). Paedomorphosis is seriously threatened by global change stressors, but it is unknown to what extent traditional management will allow its long‐term persistence. Here, we tested the effects of alien species introductions while taking into account land use and climate changes on the distribution of two polymorphic newt species (Ichthyosaura alpestris and Lissotriton graecus) in Montenegro by using a 68‐yr data set and Bayesian mixed models integrating complex spatial and temporal structures. We found that, despite the persistence of natural landscapes, metamorphs dramatically declined and paedomorphs were nearly extirpated, losing 99.9% of their aquatic area of occupancy and all the major populations. Fish introduction was the main determinant of decline for both phenotypes. Climate and the presence of crayfish further contributed to the decline of metamorphs, which started later and was less dramatic than that of paedomorphs. The near extinction of paedomorphosis on a country‐wide scale shows how invasive species determine broad‐scale impacts, which can be even stronger than other global change stressors, and underlines the need for immediate management actions to avoid the extinction of a unique developmental process, paedomorphosis.
Range‐wide populations of a long‐distance migratory songbird converge during stopover in the tropics
Authors: Gómez Camila , Guerrero Sara L. , FitzGerald Alyssa M. , Bayly Nicholas J. , Hobson Keith A. , Cadena Carlos Daniel
Published: December 2018

Geographic convergence during migration influences the extent to which animal populations may experience carry‐over effects across periods of the annual cycle. When most individuals of a population share geographic areas during a given priod, carry‐over effects are likely stronger than when individuals occupy multiple areas. We used genetic data and stable isotope (δ2H) measurements from feathers and claws to describe the likely breeding and wintering geographic origins of a long‐distance migratory songbird (Gray‐cheeked Thrush, Catharus minimus) moving through northern Colombia in spring and fall migration. Furthermore, we used these data coupled with regional occupancy surveys to assess whether individuals from various breeding populations converge during migration and evaluated whether geographic origin, age, or sex affected stopover strategies. We found that range‐wide breeding populations of Gray‐cheeked Thrush converged in northern Colombia in an area spanning <1% of the breeding range, especially during a prolonged spring stopover in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Breeding (but not winter) origin, sex, and age influenced arrival date and body condition upon arrival at stopover sites where populations converged. Birds from more northerly breeding latitudes, males and adults generally arrived earlier and in lower body condition than those with more southerly breeding origins, females, and juveniles. Our work and other studies suggest that areas in northern Colombia may function as ecological bottlenecks for Gray‐cheeked Thrush because they concentrate individuals from across the breeding range, provide critical resources, and impose constraints during migration. Future studies quantifying the effects of high‐convergence areas on fitness and survival of individuals and their demographic consequences are required to assess their roles as ecological bottlenecks.
Trajectory analysis in community ecology
Authors: De Cáceres Miquel , Coll Lluís , Legendre Pierre , Allen Robert B. , Wiser Susan K. , Fortin Marie‐Josée , Condit Richard , Hubbell Stephen
Published: December 2018

Ecologists have long been interested in how communities change over time. Addressing questions about community dynamics requires ways of representing and comparing the variety of dynamics observed across space. Until now, most analytical frameworks have been based on the comparison of synchronous observations across sites and between repeated surveys. An alternative perspective considers community dynamics as trajectories in a chosen space of community resemblance and utilizes trajectories as objects to be analyzed and compared using their geometry. While methods that take this second perspective exist, for example to test for particular trajectory shapes, there is a need for formal analytical frameworks that fully develop the potential of this approach. By adapting concepts and procedures used for the analysis of spatial trajectories, we present a framework for describing and comparing community trajectories. A key element of our contribution is the means to assess the geometric resemblance between trajectories, which allows users to describe, quantify, and analyze variation in community dynamics. We illustrate the behavior of our framework using simulated data and two spatiotemporal community data sets differing in the community properties of interest (species composition vs. size distribution of individuals). We conclude by evaluating the advantages and limitations of our community trajectory analysis framework, highlighting its broad domain of application and anticipating potential extensions.
How environment selects: Resilience and survival of microbial mat community within intermittent karst spring Krčić (Croatia)
Authors: Kolda Anamarija , Petrić Ines , Mucko Maja , Gottstein Sanja , Žutinić Petar , Goreta Gordana , Ternjej Ivančica , Rubinić Josip , Radišić Maja , Udovič Marija Gligora
Published: December 2018

We conducted an on‐site monitoring study involving seasonal collection of microbial mats samples from the Krčić spring located in the Dinaric karst in Croatia. This intermittent karst spring is characterized by oligotrophic conditions and extreme water regime fluctuations. Extreme conditions at the Krčić included summer drought followed by strong rains in the autumn as well as freezing ambient temperature during winter. By using two phylogenetic markers, 16S rRNA (total Bacteria) and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region (Cyanobacteria), we aimed to detect the impact of intense seasonal fluctuations of environmental parameters in shaping (and/or selecting) the microbial mat community of the Krčić spring. Microbial mat community was found to harbour bacteria belonging to 11 different phyla with Cyanobacteria making the community core (>50%), followed by Alphaproteobacteria. The most abundant cyanobacterial genera included Microcoleus, Phormidium, and uncultured Antarctic cyanobacterium. In two mat samples, collected during conditions of low temperatures and strong bora wind (winter 2014) and during drought period (summer 2015), Cyanobacteria were diminished within the community. Under the extreme cold populations found to proliferate included Planctomycetes and candidate phylum TM6, found specifically in this sample. Members of the phyla Firmicutes were strictly found during the drought summer period followed by Cytophagia‐Fibrella, Polymorphobacter, Polaromonas, and Massilia. During the event of high water inflow following the drought, Cyanobacteria represented 90% of the community in which specific desiccant‐tolerant Chroococcidiopsis, Calothrix, and Pleurocapsa species appeared having mechanisms for quick recolonization of environments.
Electrokinetic motion of a micro oil droplet under a glass slide
Authors: Zhang Junyan , Song Yongxin , Li Dongqing
Published: December 2018

Electrokinetic motion of a micro oil droplet beneath a glass slide was experimentally investigated in this paper. The micro oil droplets were released under the glass slide in an aqueous solution and the motion along the glass slide was measured by a microscope. The experimental results indicate that while the electrokinetic mobility increases with the applied electric field, it decreases with the oil droplet size and the ionic concentration of the aqueous solution, respectively. By changing the zeta potential of the glass‐liquid interface using polybrene coating from negative to positive, the direction of the electrokinetic mobility is reversed and the absolute value of the electrokinetic mobility increases significantly. Finally, pH effects were also investigated, and it was found that the electrokinetic mobility of the droplets reaches a maximum at pH = 6∼8.
Relative telomere length and gene expression of shelterin complex proteins among vinyl chloride monomer‐exposed workers in China
Authors: Zheng Guo‐Qiao , Zhang Guang‐Hui , Wu Han‐Tian , Tu Yu‐Ting , Tian Wei , Fang Yan , Lu Ye , Gong Shi‐Yang , Zhang Ya‐Nan , Yu Li‐Bo , Zhang Hong , Shao Hua , Brandt‐Rauf Paul , Xia Zhao‐Lin
Published: December 2018

Vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) is a confirmed carcinogen. The effects of VCM on telomeres and the gene expression of telomere complex proteins, shelterin, have not been well studied but could be of potential relevance to the carcinogenic mechanism of VCM and the health surveillance of VCM‐exposed workers. A group of 241 VCM‐exposed workers and 101 internal controls from the same plant in Shandong, China were recruited and quantitative polymerase chain reaction was preformed to measure relative telomere length (RTL) and gene expression of shelterin proteins. VCM cumulative exposure dose (CED) was estimated for the exposed workers. The differences in RTL and gene expression between groups were compared by Wald test fitted with robust regression. Shorter RTL was observed in VCM‐exposed workers than in the controls (P < 0.001) and was related to CED of VCM. Shortened RTL was also significantly related to increasing age (P = 0.012) and high blood pressure (P = 0.056). Levels of gene expression of shelterin components in exposed workers were all lower than in controls except increased TIN2 expression, and the gene expression differences in TIN2 and POT1 among exposed and control groups were significant (P = 0.014 for TIN2 and P < 0.001 for POT1, respectively). VCM exposure is found associated with altered telomere length and gene expression of shelterin components. This provides new insights into the potential carcinogenic mechanisms of VCM and could be helpful for the health surveillance for VCM‐exposed workers. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 60:361–367, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Qualitative and quantitative investigation on concentration of indoor dense gas caused by leakage and diffusion
Authors: Mao Ning , Wang Zhirong , Zhou Chao , Tong Xuan
Published: December 2018

A set of experimental system was built to study the concentration field change and influencing factors for the leakage and diffusion of indoor dense gas. CO2 was used in the experiment. CO2 gas tends to settle down after leakage. CO2 gas concentration values are disparate at different positions in the same height. It takes longer time to get the same CO2 gas concentration at higher positions than low positions. The concentration distribution is relatively approximate in the horizontal plane near the ground, while an uneven distribution is shown in the vertical plane. The concentration values increase with an increase in the leakage source strength at the positions which are lower than release source. Gas concentration is relatively stable at lower positions, while the fluctuation of gas concentration appears at higher positions. When the leakage source height is higher, the concentration near the ground reduces under the same condition. However, the whole space has a higher CO2 concentration which can generate greater risk. Incidence angle plays a great role in CO2 concentration. A theoretical calculation method was presented to predict CO2 concentration. The validation of the computation method was made by comparison of experimental data with calculation results. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: 424–434, 2019
CRLF2 expression associates with ICN1 stabilization in T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Maciel Ana Luiza Tardem , Poubel Caroline Pires , Noronha Elda Pereira , Pombo‐de‐Oliveira Maria S. , Mansur Marcela Braga , Emerenciano Mariana
Published: December 2018

T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL) is an aggressive hematopoietic malignancy with few molecular alterations showing a consensual prognostic value. CRLF2 overexpression was recently identified in high‐risk T‐ALL patients. For these cases, no genomic abnormality was found to be associated with CRLF2 overexpression. IKZF1 has been recently shown to be a direct transcriptional regulator of CRLF2 expression. Moreover, it is known that NOTCH1 antagonizes IKZF1 in T‐ALL. In light of these pieces of evidence, we reasoned that IKZF1 binding perturbation and CRLF2 upregulation could be associated in T‐ALL. We evaluated two independent series of pediatric T‐ALL cases (PHOP, n = 57 and TARGET, n = 264) for the presence of common T‐ALL molecular abnormalities, such as NOTCH1/FBXW7 mutations. We also assessed CRLF2 and IKZF1 gene expression. CRLF2 overexpression was observed in 14% (PHOP) and 16% (TARGET) of T‐ALL patients. No correlation was found between mRNA expression of CRLF2 and IKZF1 in both cohorts. Interestingly, we show that patients with mutations affecting NOTCH1‐PEST domain and/or FBXW7 had higher CRLF2 expression (P = .04). In summary, we demonstrate for the first time that only mutations resulting in ICN1 (intracellular domain of NOTCH1) stabilization are associated with CRLF2 overexpression.
Regional stratigraphy and human occupation of the upper Susitna River basin, central Alaska Range
Authors: Blong John C.
Published: December 2018

This study presents geomorphological, paleoenvironmental, and archaeological data from the upland upper Susitna River basin in the central Alaska Range. The goal of this study is to establish the landscape history and record of human use of the study area and test regional land‐use models. The results indicate that the upper Susitna was first occupied in the early Holocene at least 2,000 years after the end of full‐glacial conditions and 1,000 years after evidence of landscape recovery. Early Holocene land‐use consisted of short‐term task‐specific camps occupied by highly mobile groups on logistical forays. Upland land use intensified in the middle and late Holocene after modern vegetation patterns were established; during this time hunter‐gatherers occupied both residential and task‐specific camps in the study area in a logistical land‐use system. These results support a shift in land use in the early Holocene to include upland landscapes and intensification of upland landscape use in the late–middle Holocene. A shift in residential base camp location in the late Holocene may be tied to changing subsistence activities. There is evidence for a hiatus in human occupation following Holocene tephra fall, but it is unclear whether this was related to tephra deposition or broader climate instability.
Human immunodeficiency virus Type‐1 single‐stranded RNA activates the NLRP3 inflammasome and impairs autophagic clearance of damaged mitochondria in human microglia
Authors: Rawat Pratima , Teodorof‐Diedrich Carmen , Spector Stephen A.
Published: December 2018

Despite the availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART) that fully suppresses human immunodeficiency virus type‐1 (HIV), markers of inflammation and minor neurocognitive impairment are frequently identified in HIV‐infected persons. Increasing data support that low‐level replication defective viral RNA is made by infected cells despite the absence of infectious virus. Specific GU‐rich single‐stranded RNA from the HIV long terminal repeat region (ssRNA40) signaling through toll‐like receptor (TLR)‐7 and ‐8 has been shown to induce the secretion of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) in primary monocytes. Here, we examined the activation of microglial cells by HIV ssRNA40 and the potential subsequent neurotoxicity. Our findings show that exposure of human primary microglia to ssRNA40 activates the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Following exposure to ssRNA40, pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐1β, IL‐18, and neurotoxic cytokines TNF‐α, IL‐1α, and C1q expression and extracellular secretion are increased. The released cytokines are functional since culture supernatants from ssRNA40 exposed microglia‐induced toxicity of human primary neurons. Moreover, inflammasome activation of microglia increased ROS generation with a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial integrity. Treatment with ssRNA40 resulted in a blockade of autophagy/mitophagy mediated negative regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome activity with the release of inflammatory cytokines, caspase‐1 activation, and pyroptotic microglial cell death. Thus, HIV ssRNA mediated activation of microglial cells can contribute to neurotoxicity and neurodegeneration via secretion of inflammatory and neurotoxic cytokines. These findings provide a potential mechanism that explains the frequent minor cognitive deficits and chronic inflammation that persist in HIV‐infected persons despite treatment with suppressive ART.
High‐risk human papillomavirus detection in oropharyngeal cancers: Comparison of saliva sampling methods
Authors: Tang Kai Dun , Kenny Liz , Frazer Ian H. , Punyadeera Chamindie
Published: December 2018

Background

Accumulating evidence has suggested the utility of salivary oral rinse as a diagnostic fluid to detect oral human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA, but there are many methods for collecting saliva.

Methods

Salivary oral rinse and unstimulated whole mouth saliva samples were collected from 45 oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) patients.

Results

We show a positive correlation of HPV‐16 E2 (r = 0.95, P < 0.0001) and E6/7 (r = 0.93, P < 0.0001) relative copy number as well as HPV genotypes in both sample methods. There was a significant correlation between the two sample methods in the ratio of HPV16 E2 to E6/7 DNA (r = 0.46, P < 0.01). Consistent with previous studies, a mixed HPV‐16 form (episomal and integrated) was commonly found in both saliva and tumor samples.

Conclusion

Detection of HPV in saliva samples collected by either method yielded comparable results, and showed good sensitivity for detection of HPV derived from OPC.
De‐escalation of post‐treatment surveillance in oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Ilmarinen Taru , Keski‐Säntti Harri , Markkanen‐Leppänen Mari , Haapaniemi Aaro , Tapiovaara Laura , Atula Timo , Bäck Leif J. J.
Published: December 2018

Background

The majority of new oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) cases are associated with human papillomavirus and favorable prognosis. Post‐treatment follow‐up should be targeted to patients at greatest risk for disease recurrence.

Methods

To assess the benefits of routine clinical surveillance in OPSCC, we reviewed all follow‐up visits conducted in 2014 at Helsinki University Hospital Department of Otorhinolaryngology.

Results

Of 366 visits, 26 (7%) were from patients presenting with a new symptom, and disease recurrence was detected in four. The presence of a new symptom was significantly associated with disease recurrence (P < 0.001). Of 366 visits, 340 (93%) were from patients presenting without new symptoms, and not a single recurrence was found during these visits.

Conclusions

Based on our findings, and previous studies assessing the prognosis and pattern of recurrent OPSCC, we concluded that the number of routine post‐treatment visits can be reduced. Follow‐up should rather focus on symptom‐directed examinations.
Unsteady‐state lumped heat capacity system design for tube furnace for continuous inline wire annealing process
Authors: Kumbhar Siddharaj V. , Sonage Basgonda K.
Published: December 2018

A continuous annealing furnace is developed, which incorporates the principle of electric resistance heating for obtaining the desired temperature in the furnace. The concept of lumped heat capacity system is applied for the determination of annealing time of a continuously moving wire through the refractory tube. Also, the heat transfer inside the system and heat losses to the atmosphere are considered using the principles of conduction, convection, and radiation. The parameters related to the dynamics of moving wire are also designed. The designed furnace is fabricated and tested for its working, the observations of which show that 30 minutes are required to reach about 400°C furnace temperature and 30 seconds for annealing 1 m length of wire. The morphological testing of annealed and nonannealed wire is done to study the microstructure, which shows more traces of pearlite in annealed wires than in nonannealed wires. Thus, continuous annealing furnaces are more effective for inline annealing of wires; so as to relieve the internal stresses, induced by the step cold rolling process.
Disruption of sialic acid metabolism drives tumor growth by augmenting CD8+ T cell apoptosis
Authors: Cornelissen Lenneke A.M. , Blanas Athanasios , van der Horst Joost C. , Kruijssen Laura , Zaal Anouk , O'Toole Tom , Wiercx Lieke , van Kooyk Yvette , van Vliet Sandra J.
Published: December 2018

Sialylated glycan structures are known for their immunomodulatory capacities and their contribution to tumor immune evasion. However, the role of aberrant sialylation in colorectal cancer and the consequences of complete tumor desialylation on anti‐tumor immunity remain unstudied. Here, we report that CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated knock out of the CMAS gene, encoding a key enzyme in the sialylation pathway, in the mouse colorectal cancer MC38 cell line completely abrogated cell surface expression of sialic acids (MC38‐Sianull) and, unexpectedly, significantly increased in vivo tumor growth compared to the control MC38‐MOCK cells. This enhanced tumor growth of MC38‐Sianull cells could be attributed to decreased CD8+ T cell frequencies in the tumor microenvironment only, as immune cell frequencies in tumor‐draining lymph nodes remained unaffected. In addition, MC38‐Sianull cells were able to induce CD8+ T cell apoptosis in an antigen‐independent manner. Moreover, low CMAS gene expression correlated with reduced recurrence‐free survival in a human colorectal cancer cohort, supporting the clinical relevance of our work. Together, these results demonstrate for the first time a detrimental effect of complete tumor desialylation on colorectal cancer tumor growth, which greatly impacts the design of novel cancer therapeutics aimed at altering the tumor glycosylation profile.
Delphi consensus statement on intrapartum fetal monitoring in low‐resource settings
Authors: Housseine Natasha , Punt Marieke C. , Browne Joyce L. , van ‘t Hooft Janneke , Maaløe Nanna , Meguid Tarek , Theron Gerhard B. , Franx Arie , Grobbee Diederick E. , Visser Gerard H.A. , Rijken Marcus J.
Published: December 2018

Objective

To determine acceptable and achievable strategies of intrapartum fetal monitoring in busy low‐resource settings.

Methods

Three rounds of online Delphi surveys were conducted between January 1 and October 31, 2017. International experts with experience in low‐resource settings scored the importance of intrapartum fetal monitoring methods.

Results

71 experts completed all three rounds (28 midwives, 43 obstetricians). Consensus was reached on (1) need for an admission test, (2) handheld Doppler for intrapartum fetal monitoring, (3) intermittent auscultation (IA) every 30 minutes for low‐risk pregnancies during the first stage of labor and after every contraction for high‐risk pregnancies in the second stage, (4) contraction monitoring hourly for low‐risk pregnancies in the first stage, and (5) adjunctive tests. Consensus was not reached on frequency of IA or contraction monitoring for high‐risk women in the first stage or low‐risk women in the second stage of labor.

Conclusion

There is a gap between international recommendations and what is physically possible in many labor wards in low‐resource settings. Research on how to effectively implement the consensus on fetal assessment at admission and use of handheld Doppler during labor and delivery is crucial to support staff in achieving the best possible care in low‐resource settings.
Incidence of intimate partner violence among Ugandan women with pelvic floor dysfunction
Authors: Krause Hannah , Ng Shu‐Kay , Singasi Isaac , Kabugho Emma , Natukunda Harriet , Goh Judith
Published: December 2018

Objective

To assess the occurrence of intimate partner violence (IPV) among women seeking surgery for pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) in a rural African community.

Methods

A prospective questionnaire‐based study was conducted among women with obstetric fistula, unrepaired obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS), or severe (stage 3 or 4) pelvic organ prolapse (POP) who attended surgical camps at Kagando Hospital in western Uganda between July 15, 2016, and September 14, 2017. The control group comprised women without PFD. Participants completed the Hurt, Insult, Threaten, and Scream (HITS) tool and the Woman Abuse Screening Tool (WAST) to screen for IPV.

Results

117 of the 312 women interviewed reported current IPV: 73/214 (34.1%) in the PFD group and 44/98 (44.9%) in the control group. The PFD group comprised unrepaired OASIS (n=85, 39.7%), obstetric fistula (n=75, 35.1%), and severe POP (n=54, 25.2%). All groups experienced high levels of IPV. The frequency of positive screening results for IPV with WAST (score ≥13.0) and/or HITS (score ≥10.5) were: severe POP (n=17, 31.5%), obstetric fistula (n=28, 37.3%), unrepaired OASIS (n=30, 35.3%), and control group (n=44, 44.9%).

Conclusion

Women in western Uganda experienced high rates of IPV, regardless of whether or not they had PFD.

ANZCTR number: ACTRN12617001073392.
Meta‐analysis of the association between maternal subclinical hypothyroidism and gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Jia Minghan , Wu Yanxin , Lin Bo , Shi Yawei , Zhang Qi , Lin Ying , Wang Shenming , Zhang Yunjian
Published: December 2018

Background

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are common endocrine disorders that occur during pregnancy.

Objective

To determine whether the risk of GDM differs between pregnant women with normal thyroid function and those with SCH.

Search strategy

MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched for studies published in English from inception to March 1, 2017, using combinations of the search terms “thyroid dysfunction”, “thyroid diseases”, “subclinical hypothyroidism”, “hypothyroxinemia”, “thyrotropin”, “gestational diabetes”, “hyperglycemia in pregnancy”, and “adverse pregnancy outcomes”.

Selection criteria

We selected cohort studies that included pregnant women with SCH; in which the outcome of interest was, or included, the incidence of GDM; and that had data available for both the SCH and GDM groups. Studies were excluded if assisted reproductive technologies were used to achieve pregnancy; reviews, abstracts, and case reports were also excluded.

Data collection and analysis

Eleven studies were included in the analysis. Summary odds ratios (ORs) for the risk of GDM were calculated.

Main results

SCH with positive antithyroid autoantibodies markedly increased GDM risk (OR 3.22, 95% confidence interval 1.72–6.03, I2=55%).

Conclusion

SCH with positive antithyroid autoantibodies in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of GDM.