bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melochia corchorifolia extract inhibits melanogenesis in B16F10 mouse melanoma cells via activation of the ERK signaling
Authors: Yuan Xing‐Hua , Tian Yu‐Dan , Oh Jang‐Hee , Bach Tran The , Chung Jin Ho , Jin Zhe‐Hu
Published: January 2020

Background

Numerous researches have focused on discovering available inhibitors of melanogenesis from natural medicinal plants with stable efficacy and safety to resolve cutaneous hyperpigmentary problems. Melochia corchorifolia Linn. (MC) has been used as folk medicine to treat various diseases. However, the effect of MC on melanogenesis remains unknown.

Aim

In this study, we investigated the effect of MC extract on melanogenesis and its underlying mechanisms in B16F10 mouse melanoma cells.

Methods

B16F10 cells were treated with MC extract, and then, cell viability, melanin content, and tyrosinase activity were analyzed. The mRNA and protein expression of tyrosinase and microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor (MITF) were evaluated using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and Western blotting, respectively. Phosphorylated or total protein levels in MC extract‐induced signaling pathways were analyzed by Western blotting.

Results

Treatment of B16F10 cells with MC extract inhibited melanin synthesis and intracellular tyrosinase activity in a dose‐dependent manner with no cytotoxicity. Protein and mRNA expressions of tyrosinase and MITF were also significantly decreased by MC extract treatment. In addition, phosphorylated level of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) was obviously increased by MC extract, but AKT pathway was not activated. Inhibited ERK phosphorylation by pretreatment with a selective ERK inhibitor PD98059 significantly reversed the decreased melanin content induced by treatment with MC extract in B16F10 cells.

Conclusion

MC extract inhibits melanogenesis in B16F10 mouse melanoma cells through suppression of MITF‐tyrosinase signaling pathway by ERK activation.
Diagnostic orientation values for ACTH and other parameters for clinically healthy donkeys and mules (insulin, triglycerides, glucose, fructosamines, and ɣ‐GT)
Authors: Gehlen Heidrun , Twickel Sophie , Stöckle Sabita , Weber Corinna , Bartmann Claus P.
Published: January 2020

Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction is the most prevalent endocrine disease in horses. Although donkeys and mules may also be affected, only a few data have been published. Reference values for diagnostic parameters, such as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), are especially scarce or even lacking. Therefore, in the present study, available data from the literature have been verified and completed to facilitate a reliable diagnosis. Clinical inspections and haematological and biochemical examinations were carried out four times in a three‐month interval (February to November) in 44 donkeys and 31 mules. Data from clinically healthy animals were used as an orientation. Plasma ACTH concentrations showed seasonal changes in both animal groups. However, it was generally higher in donkeys than mules. Although blood glucose (EDTA plasma) showed no difference between groups, serum insulin concentrations were consistently higher in donkeys. Serum fructosamine levels were slightly higher in mules, whereas, in some cases, serum triglyceride levels were considerably higher in donkeys. Serum gamma‐glutamyltransferase showed a striking peak in mules in August, whereas the remaining gamma‐glutamyltransferase values were lower compared to donkeys. By comparing donkeys and mules, the present work reveals differences in various blood parameters which should be considered for diagnoses and future studies.
A novel polysaccharide isolated from Flammulina velutipes, characterization, macrophage immunomodulatory activities and its impact on gut microbiota in rats
Authors: Ye Jufeng , Wang Xiangdong , Wang Ke , Deng Yudi , Yang Yichao , Ali Rufida , Chen Feilong , Wu Zijian , Liao Wenzhen , Mao Limei
Published: January 2020

The structural characteristics of a novel Flammulina velutipes polysaccharide (FVP2) were explored in this study. Besides, immunomodulatory activities of FVP2 on RAW 264.7 cell and its impact on gut microbiota in rats were investigated. FVP2 has a molecular weight of 18.3 kD, and its main components include galactose (19.96%), glucose (60.66%) and mannose (19.38%). By NMR analysis, the main‐chain structure consisted of (1 → 3)‐linked‐β‐D‐Gal, (1 → 6) ‐linked‐β‐D‐Gal, (1 → 6)‐linked‐α‐D‐Glc and (1 → 3,6)‐linked‐α‐D‐Man was identified. Results of the in vitro assays on RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells showed FVP2 could significantly up‐regulate the expression of NO, TNF‐α and IL‐6. FVP2 was intragastrically administered to rats for 2 weeks. Compared with the control group, two caecal short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) concentration (isobutyric acid and butyric acid) and the abundance of beneficial microbiota of the FVP2‐treated group were significantly increased (p < .05) respectively. The results demonstrated that FVP2 could effectively enhance the level of butyric acid and increase beneficial gut microbiota, which could improve the intestinal barrier function and maintain the intestinal mucosal integrity, suggesting that FVP2 could potentially be an immunomodulators or a functional food to promote intestinal health.
Conflicting phylogenetic signals in genomic data of the coffee family (Rubiaceae)
Authors: Wikström Niklas , Bremer Birgitta , Rydin Catarina
Published: January 2020

Reconstructions of phylogenetic relationships in the flowering plant family Rubiaceae have up until now relied heavily on single‐ or multi‐gene data, primarily from the plastid compartment. With the availability of cost‐ and time‐efficient techniques for generating complete genome sequences, the opportunity arises to resolve some of the relationships that, up until now, have proven problematic. Here, we contribute new data from complete 58 plastid genome sequences, representing 55 of the currently 65 recognized tribes of the Rubiaceae. Also contributed are new data from the nuclear rDNA cistrons for corresponding taxa. Phylogenetic analyses are conducted on two plastid data sets, one including data from the protein coding genes only, and a second where protein coding data are combined with non‐coding regions, and on a nuclear rDNA data set. Our results clearly show that simply adopting a “more characters” approach does not resolve the relationships in the Rubiaceae. More importantly, we identify conflicting phylogenetic signals in the data. Analyses of the same plastid data, treated as nucleotides or as codon‐degenerated data, resolve and support conflicting topologies in the subfamily Cinchonoideae. As these analyses use the same data, we interpret the conflict to result from erroneous assumptions in the models used to reconstruct our phylogenies. Conflicting signals are also identified in the analyses of the plastid versus the nuclear rDNA data sets. These analyses use data from different genomic compartments, with different inheritance patterns, and we interpret the conflicts as representing “real” conflicts, reflecting biological processes of the past.
Cocaine‐associated atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome in a genetically susceptible individual
Authors: Bongetti Elisa , Kavanagh David , Martin Kylie , Bendall Anna , Hill Prue , Steinberg Adam , Rajaram Yogeshwar , Ierino Francesco
Published: January 2020

Atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS) is a severe, life‐threatening condition that requires early recognition and urgent treatment. In aHUS rare genetic variants in CFH, CFI, CD46, C3 and CFB predispose to complement over activation. This case describes a case of aHUS in which there was a strong temporal association between disease onset and the use of smoked cocaine. The patient was found to have a rare genetic variant in the CFI gene which may have been unmasked by first‐time exposure to cocaine. The patient stabilized and improved with early administration of eculizumab, supporting the notion of an underlying immunological pathogenesis and the importance of early intervention.
Clinical value of renal phospholipase A2 receptor deposit in the prognosis evaluation and treatment options of idiopathic membranous nephropathy: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Xie Zhiyong , Dong Wei , Li Zhilian , Chen Yuanhan , Song Li , Li Ruizhao , Wu Yanhua , Fu Lei , Liang Huaban , Tao Yiming , Xie Jianteng , Wang Wenjian , Liu Shuangxin , Ye Zhiming , Shi Wei , Liang Xinling
Published: January 2020

Aim

Phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) is a target antigen for idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN). However, the association between renal PLA2R antigen and disease prognosis had not been fully investigated. In addition, there was a paucity of studies investigating the difference of therapeutic effects between cyclophosphamide and cyclosporine A in PLA2R‐associated IMN.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study recruited 300 eligible patients diagnosed with biopsy‐proven IMN between September 2015 and July 2018 in Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital. The remission of proteinuria was compared between PLA2R‐associated and non‐PLA2R‐associated IMN. The difference of therapeutic effects between cyclophosphamide and cyclosporine A were also investigated in PLA2R‐associated IMN.

Results

The positive rate of renal PLA2R antigen in recruited IMN patients was 82.3%. Non‐PLA2R‐associated IMN patients had a higher probability to achieve remission than PLA2R‐associated IMN patients (Log–rank test, P = .013). Multivariate COX analysis showed that renal PLA2R antigen was an independent risk factor for not achieving remission in IMN patients (Hazard Ratio: 1.619; 95% confidence interval: 1.133 to 2.313; P = .008). In PLA2R‐associated IMN, patients receiving cyclophosphamide had a higher probability to achieve remission compared with those receiving cyclosporine A (Log–rank test, P = .018) while there was no difference in renal survival. Multivariate COX regression analysis showed that compared with cyclosporine A, patients receiving cyclophosphamide had a higher probability to achieve remission.

Conclusion

Phospholipase A2 receptor ‐associated IMN patients had a lower probability to achieve remission compared with non‐PLA2R‐associated IMN. Compared with cyclosporine A, cyclophosphamide exerted better therapeutic effects in remission of proteinuria and may be the preferred immunosuppressant for PLA2R‐associated IMN.
Primary epithelial‐myoepithelial carcinoma of the pituitary gland
Authors: Lavin Victoria , Callipo Fabio , Donofrio Carmine A. , Ellwood‐Thompson Rhianedd , Metcalf Robert , Djoukhadar Ibrahim , Higham Claire E. , Kearney Tara , Colaco Rovel , Gnanalingham Kanna , Roncaroli Federico
Published: January 2020

Primary salivary gland‐like tumors of the sella are rare and often challenging to diagnose. They reportedly derive from serous and mucinous glands that remain trapped in the infundibulum during embryogenesis. We report a 68‐year‐old man who presented with partial left third cranial nerve palsy, visual loss in the left eye without visual field defects, headache, weight loss and reduced muscle bulk. Neuroimaging studies demonstrated a solid and cystic, avidly enhancing lesion expanding the pituitary fossa and extending to the left cavernous sinus. The patient underwent craniotomy and the tissue removed showed features of epithelial‐myoepithelial carcinoma similar to the salivary gland, skin and breast counterpart. No primary tumor was found outside the sella. The lesion behaved aggressively despite radio‐chemotherapy and the patient died 22 months from the onset. The tumor showed a novel TP53 in‐frame deletion (Gly154del) while no variants were found in H‐RAS hotspot regions (codons 12, 13 and 61). Our report expands the spectrum of salivary gland‐like tumors primarily occurring in the sella and emphasizes the need for specialist review of rare, non‐neuroendocrine tumors of the pituitary and sella regions.
Xylem form and function under extreme nutrient limitation: an example from California's pygmy forest
Authors: Cary Katharine L. , Ranieri Gina M. , Pittermann Jarmila
Published: January 2020

Xylem anatomy and function have large implications for plant growth as well as survival during drought, but the impact of nutrient limitation on xylem is not fully understood. This study examines the pygmy forest in California, a plant community that experiences negligible water stress but is severely stunted by low‐nutrient and acidic soil, to investigate how nutrient limitation affects xylem function.

Thirteen key anatomical and hydraulic traits of stems of four species were compared between pygmy forest plants and nearby conspecifics growing on richer soil.

Resistance to cavitation (P50), a critical trait for predicting survival during drought, had highly species‐specific responses: in one species, pygmy plants had a 26% decrease in cavitation resistance compared to higher‐nutrient conspecifics, while in another species, pygmy plants had a 56% increase in cavitation resistance. Other traits responded to nutrient limitation more consistently: pygmy plants had smaller xylem conduits and higher leaf‐specific conductivity (KL) than conspecific controls.

Edaphic stress, even in the absence of water stress, altered xylem structure and thus had substantial impacts on water transport. Importantly, nutrient limitation shifted cavitation resistance in a species‐specific and unpredictable manner; this finding has implications for the assessment of cavitation resistance in other natural systems.
Determinants of geographic range size in plants
Authors: Sheth Seema Nayan , Morueta‐Holme Naia , Angert Amy L.
Published: January 2020

Geographic range size has long fascinated ecologists and evolutionary biologists, yet our understanding of the factors that cause variation in range size among species and across space remains limited. Not only does geographic range size inform decisions about the conservation and management of rare and nonindigenous species due to its relationship with extinction risk, rarity, and invasiveness, but it also provides insights into fundamental processes such as dispersal and adaptation. There are several features unique to plants (e.g. polyploidy, mating system, sessile habit) that may lead to distinct mechanisms explaining variation in range size. Here, we highlight key studies testing intrinsic and extrinsic hypotheses about geographic range size under contrasting scenarios where species' ranges are static or change over time. We then present results from a meta‐analysis of the relative importance of commonly hypothesized determinants of range size in plants. We show that our ability to infer the relative importance of these determinants is limited, particularly for dispersal ability, mating system, ploidy, and environmental heterogeneity. We highlight avenues for future research that merge approaches from macroecology and evolutionary ecology to better understand how adaptation and dispersal interact to facilitate niche evolution and range expansion.
It is not just a ‘trade‐off’: indications for sink‐ and source‐limitation to vegetative and regenerative growth in an old‐growth beech forest
Authors: Mund Martina , Herbst Mathias , Knohl Alexander , Matthäus Bertrand , Schumacher Jens , Schall Peter , Siebicke Lukas , Tamrakar Rijan , Ammer Christian
Published: January 2020

Controls on tree growth are key issues in plant physiology. The hypothesis of our study was that the interannual variability of wood and fruit production are primarily controlled directly by weather conditions (sink limitation), while carbon assimilation (source limitation) plays a secondary role.

We analyzed the interannual variability of weather conditions, gross primary productivity (GPP) and net primary productivity (NPP) of wood and fruits of an old‐growth, unmanaged Fagus sylvatica forest over 14 yr, including six mast years.

In a multiple linear regression model, c. 71% of the annual variation in wood‐NPP could be explained by mean air temperature in May, precipitation from April to May (positive influence) and fruit‐NPP (negative influence). GPP of June to July solely explained c. 42% of the variation in wood‐NPP. Fruit‐NPP was positively related to summer precipitation 2 yr before (R2 = 0.85), and negatively to precipitation in May (R2 = 0.83) in the fruit years. GPP had no influence on fruit‐NPP.

Our results suggest a complex system of sink and source limitations to tree growth driven by weather conditions and going beyond a simple carbon‐mediated ‘trade‐off’ between regenerative and vegetative growth.
Effects of occlusion modification on the remodelling of degenerative mandibular condylar processes
Authors: Zhou Ping , Zhang Jing , Zhang Mian , Yang Hongxu , Liu Qian , Zhang Hongyun , Liu Jinqiang , Duan Jing , Lu Yanqin , Wang Mei‐Qing
Published: January 2020

Objective

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) displays a high remodelling capability in response to occlusion changes. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the responses of TMJ condyles of growing mice to the installation of a unilateral anterior crossbite (UAC) prosthesis and the replacement of the UAC prothesis with a bilateral anterior elevation (BAE) prosthesis.

Materials and Methods

C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned to the blank control and experimental groups. In mice in the experimental groups, UAC was created, while in others, BAE was created after the creation of UAC or removal of UAC. Changes in TMJ condylar cartilage and subchondral bone were assessed.

Results

The degradation of condylar cartilage induced by UAC was reversed by BAE, as evaluated by cartilage histochemical changes, collagen II‐positive area, collagen X‐positive chondrocytes and expression levels of Adamts‐5, Mmp13, Tnf‐α and Il‐1β. Subchondral bone was assessed based on the subchondral bone volume, the number of TRAP‐positive cells and the Opg/Rankl ratio.

Conclusion

The growing mouse TMJ condyle displays a high remodelling capability, which can be degenerative or rehabilitative in response to the creation of UAC and the replacement of UAC with BAE. Early correction of occlusion is beneficial for the recovery of degenerative condyles.
Accuracy of dynamic preload variables for predicting fluid responsiveness in patients with pediatric liver cirrhosis: A prospective study
Authors: Chen Pin‐Hsin , Chan Kuang‐Cheng , Liao Min‐Hsiu , Wu Chun‐Yu
Published: January 2020

Background

We have previously reported that dynamic preload variables predicted fluid responsiveness in adult patients with liver cirrhosis. However, pediatric patients with cirrhosis may present with unique hemodynamic characteristics, and therefore, the predictive accuracy of these variables in such patients must be clarified.

Aims

To investigate the accuracy of dynamic preload variables for predicting fluid responsiveness in pediatric patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

A total of 27 pediatric patients with cirrhosis undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation were enrolled in this study. Patients’ pulse pressure variation, stroke volume variation, stroke volume index, and central venous pressure were measured using the calibrated pulse contour cardiac output system. The plethysmographic variability index was measured using a Masimo Radical 7 co‐oximeter. During the hepatic dissection phase of the surgery, repeated intraoperative fluid challenges with 10 mL kg−1 of crystalloid within 15 minutes were administered. Fluid responsiveness was defined as an increase in stroke volume index of ≥15% after fluid challenge.

Results

A total of 61 fluid challenges were administered resulting in 15 fluid responders and 46 fluid nonresponders. Fluid challenge induced significant decreases in all three dynamic preload variables but not in the fluid nonresponders. However, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves for pulse pressure variation, stroke volume variation, plethysmographic variability index, and central venous pressure for predicting fluid responsiveness were 0.67 (95% confidence interval: 0.52‐0.82; P = .0255), 0.68 (95% confidence interval: 0.54‐0.83; P = .0140), 0.56 (95% confidence interval: 0.40‐0.71; P = .4724), and 0.57 (95% confidence interval: 0.40‐0.74; P = .4192), respectively.

Conclusions

Dynamic preload variables do not predict fluid responsiveness in pediatric patients with liver cirrhosis.
The use of pressure‐controlled mechanical ventilation in a swine model of intraoperative pediatric cardiac arrest
Authors: Lapid Francis M. , O'Brien Caitlin E. , Kudchadkar Sapna R. , Lee Jennifer K. , Hunt Elizabeth A. , Koehler Raymond C. , Shaffner Donald H.
Published: January 2020

Background

Current pediatric resuscitation guidelines suggest that resuscitators using an advanced airway deliver 8‐10 breaths per minute while carefully avoiding excessive ventilation. In the intraoperative setting, having a dedicated ventilation rescuer may be difficult because of limited personnel. Continuing pressure‐controlled mechanical ventilation during resuscitation for intraoperative cardiac arrest reduces personnel needed and the risk of hyperventilation but might risk hypoventilation during chest compression delivery.

Aims

To determine whether the use of pressure‐controlled mechanical ventilation at prearrest settings provides normoxia and normocarbia during resuscitation from cardiac arrest.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed combined data from preclinical randomized controlled trials. Two‐week‐old swine (3‐4 kg) underwent asphyxia‐induced cardiac arrest. Animals were resuscitated with periods of basic and advanced life support. During resuscitation, pressure‐controlled mechanical ventilation was delivered at the prearrest respiratory rate, peak inspiratory pressure, and positive end‐expiratory pressure. Arterial blood gases were measured prearrest, at 11 minutes of asphyxia, and at 8 and 20 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Results

Piglets (n = 154) received pressure‐controlled mechanical ventilation before and during cardiopulmonary resuscitation with a peak inspiratory pressure of 14‐15 cm H2O, positive end‐expiratory pressure of 4 cm H2O, 20 breaths/minute, and an inspiratory:expiratory ratio of 1:2. During asphyxia, the arterial blood gas showed the expected severe hypercarbia and hypoxia. Continuing pressure‐controlled mechanical ventilation using prearrest parameters and increasing the FiO2 to 1.0 returned the PaCO2 to prearrest levels and slightly increased the partial pressure of arterial oxygen at 8 and 20 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Conclusion

In this piglet model of resuscitation from asphyxial arrest, pressure‐controlled mechanical ventilation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation at the prearrest ventilator settings with an FiO2 of 1.0 provides adequate oxygenation and restores normocarbia. Clinical investigation is warranted to determine the benefits of continuing pressure‐controlled mechanical ventilation at prearrest parameters during pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Airway ultrasound: Point of care in children—The time is now
Authors: Daniel Sam J. , Bertolizio Gianluca , McHugh Tobial
Published: January 2020

Background

Point‐of‐care ultrasonography of the airway is becoming a first‐line noninvasive adjunct assessment tool of the pediatric airway. It is defined as a focused and goal‐directed portable ultrasonography brought to the patient and performed and interpreted on the spot by the provider. Successful use requires a thorough understanding of airway anatomy and ultrasound experience.

Aims

To outline the many benefits, and some limitations, of airway ultrasonography in the clinical and perioperative setting.

Materials and Methods

Expert review of the recent literature.

Results

Ultrasound assessment of the airway may provide the clinician with valuable information that is specific to the individual airway static and dynamic anatomy of the patient. Ultrasound can help identify vocal cord dysfunction and pathology, assess airway size, predict the appropriate diameter of endotracheal and tracheostomy tubes, differentiate tracheal from esophageal intubation, localize the cricothyroid membrane for emergency airway access and identify tracheal rings for US‐guided tracheostomy. Ultrasonography is also a great tool for the intraoperative diagnosis of a pneumothorax, the visualization of the movement of the diaphragms, and quantifying the amount of gastric content. Ultrasonography signs, tips, and pearls that allow these diagnoses are highlighted. The major disadvantage of ultrasonography remains interobserver variability, and operator dependence, as it requires specific training and experience.

Conclusion

Although it is not standard of care yet, there is significant potential for the integration of ultrasound technology into the routine care of the airway.
Photolysis of 3‐(1‐acyl‐5‐aryl‐3‐pyrazolinyl)coumarins—Effective Fluorescence Decay
Authors: Traven Valerii F. , Cheptsov Dmitriy A. , Mamirgova Zarina Z. , Solovjova Natalya P. , Martynenko Vyacheslav M. , Dolotov Sergei M. , Krayushkin Michail M. , Ivanov Ivan V.
Published: January 2020

Photophysical characteristics of new 3‐(1‐acyl‐5‐aryl‐3‐pyrazolinyl)coumarins have been measured. These coumarin derivatives are found to be effective fluorophores and show high values of quantum yields of fluorescence both in nonpolar and in polar solvents. The 3‐(1‐acyl‐5‐aryl‐3‐pyrazolinyl)coumarins turned to be photosensitive compounds and undergo photolysis under irradiation in the range of 310–465 nm. Photolysis is suggested to include retro‐cyclization and retro‐condensation steps. The process is accompanied by a sharp drop of fluorescence that can be of interest for the creation of new media in optical recording of information.
Biofloc technology: principles focused on potential species and the case study of Chilean river shrimp Cryphiops caementarius
Authors: Ulloa Walker David Antonio , Morales Suazo María Cristina , Emerenciano Maurício Gustavo Coelho
Published: January 2020

The accelerated growth of aquaculture has caused environmental impacts in many countries. Examples include the use of large volumes of water, discharge of effluents with high nutrient content, the occupation of large areas, natural habitat alternation and the escape of exotic species. Biofloc technology (BFT) is an aquaculture tool that requires minimal water exchange, promotes the nutrient recycling optimizing resources and produces natural food in situ by forming suspended microbial aggregates in the water (bioflocs). These microorganisms provide multiple benefits such as water quality control, pathogen resistance and nutritional supplementation. Species such as Litopenaeus vannamei and tilapia have been successfully applied in BFT. In addition, there are also an increasing number of studies focused on alternative species with promising results. This paper describes essential aspects of biofloc technology, its application in aquaculture and the potential to extend its benefits to new aquaculture species such as Chilean river shrimp Cryphiops caementarius. This paper describes the future challenges of this technology as well as opportunities for its application.
Biological soil crust salvage for dryland restoration: an opportunity for natural resource restoration
Authors: Tucker Colin , Antoninka Anita , Day Natalie , Poff Boris , Reed Sasha
Published: January 2020

Biocrusts' functional importance and vulnerability to disturbance have motivated consistent interest in biocrust restoration, as well as a recent increase in research to cultivate biocrusts in laboratory and greenhouse settings for use in ecological restoration. As part of a sustainable approach to developing biocrust restoration, we argue that a complementary step is to improve and accelerate methods for salvaging biocrusts that would otherwise be destroyed in a forthcoming disturbance. The increasing rate and scale of disturbance pressures in drylands where biocrusts flourish means that the supply of salvageable biocrust and demand for that material in restoration greatly exceed the present cultivable supply. In this article we describe the state of knowledge for biocrust salvage, present a simple set of steps for conducting a salvage harvest, discuss risks and benefits when considering using salvage, and suggest future research directions to facilitate scaling up biocrust restoration using salvaged material. A focus on the use of salvaged biocrust as a restoration source may prove an important step to improve ecological restoration in notoriously difficult to restore dryland ecosystems.
Forest regeneration following ungulate removal in a montane Hawaiian wet forest
Authors: Hart Patrick J. , Ibanez Thomas , Uehana Shea , Pang‐Ching Joshua
Published: January 2020

Most Hawaiian forests lack resiliency following disturbance due to the presence of non‐native and invasive plant and animal species. The montane wet forest within Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge on Hawai'i island has a long history of ungulate disturbance but portions of the refuge were fenced and most ungulates excluded by the early 1990s. We examined patterns of regeneration within two 100 ha study sites in this forest following the removal of ungulates and in the absence of invasive woody tree species to determine, in part, if passive restoration techniques can be successful under these conditions. We characterized growth, mortality, and basal area (BA) changes for approximately 7,100 marked individuals of all native tree species present in two surveys over a 17–18‐year period within two hundred 30 m diameter forest plots. Considerable recruitment within plots of new trees of all species significantly changed size class distributions and erased deficits in small‐sized trees observed during the first survey, particularly for the codominant canopy tree, koa (Acacia koa). Overall, growth of established dominant 'ōhi'a trees (Metrosideros polymorpha) and recruitment of mid‐canopy trees contributed to increases in BA while high levels of mortality for largeA.koatrees contributed to decreased BA. This resulted in a slight increase in BA between the two surveys (+1.9%). This study demonstrates that fencing and ungulate removal may have rescued theA.koapopulation by facilitating the first real pulse in recruitment in over a century, and that passive restoration can be a successful management strategy in this forest.
Turbidite stratigraphy in proglacial lakes: Deciphering trigger mechanisms using a statistical approach
Authors: Praet Nore , Van Daele Maarten , Collart Tim , Moernaut Jasper , Vandekerkhove Elke , Kempf Philipp , Haeussler Peter J. , De Batist Marc
Published: January 2020

Turbidites embedded in lacustrine sediment sequences are commonly used to reconstruct regional flood or earthquake histories. A critical step for this method to be successful is that turbidites and their trigger mechanisms are determined unambiguously. The latter is particularly challenging for prehistoric proglacial lake records in high‐seismicity settings where both earthquake‐generated and flood‐generated turbidites interrupt the background varved sedimentation. This calls for a new method to allow efficient and objective identification and classification of turbidites. This study examined turbidites in five long (9 to 17 m) sediment cores from Eklutna Lake, a proglacial lake in south‐central Alaska, using standard core logging and grain‐size data. A novel statistical approach is presented, in which varve‐thickness distributions were first analyzed to objectively identify the thickest turbidites and distinguish them from background sedimentation. For each turbidite, a selection of variables were then measured, including: basal grain‐size, thickness, magnetic susceptibility and spectrophotometric variables. Triggering mechanisms were discriminated by a combination of principal component analysis and clustering, and by calibration with historical events. Using this approach, a 2250 year long lake‐wide event stratigraphy was constructed, with 94 prehistoric events, including 24 earthquake and 70 flood events. Basal grain‐size and thickness variables turn out to be the most effective proxies for discrimination. This statistical approach is a powerful and new method to identify turbidites and their triggering mechanisms in long prehistoric sediment records. It opens up new prospects for palaeoseismological, palaeohydrological and palaeoclimate studies in proglacial lakes worldwide.
A hierarchical cluster analysis to determine whether injured runners exhibit similar kinematic gait patterns
Authors: Jauhiainen Susanne , Pohl Andrew J. , Äyrämö Sami , Kauppi Jukka‐Pekka , Ferber Reed
Published: January 2020

Previous studies have suggested that runners can be subgrouped based on homogeneous gait patterns; however, no previous study has assessed the presence of such subgroups in a population of individuals across a wide variety of injuries. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess whether distinct subgroups with homogeneous running patterns can be identified among a large group of injured and healthy runners and whether identified subgroups are associated with specific injury location. Three‐dimensional kinematic data from 291 injured and healthy runners, representing both sexes and a wide range of ages (10‐66 years), were clustered using hierarchical cluster analysis. Cluster analysis revealed five distinct subgroups from the data. Kinematic differences between the subgroups were compared using one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Against our hypothesis, runners with the same injury types did not cluster together, but the distribution of different injuries within subgroups was similar across the entire sample. These results suggest that homogeneous gait patterns exist independent of injury location and that it is important to consider these underlying patterns when planning injury prevention or rehabilitation strategies.
The HLA‐A*02:842 allele identified in a volunteer donor for hematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Baek In‐Cheol , Choi Eun‐Jeong , Shin Dong‐Hwan , Kim Hyoung‐Jae , Kim Tai‐Gyu
Published: January 2020

HLA‐A*02:842 differs from HLA‐A*02:149 in codon 99 in exon 3.
The HLA‐DRB1*04:277 allele identified in a volunteer donor for hematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Baek In‐Cheol , Choi Eun‐Jeong , Shin Dong‐Hwan , Kim Hyoung‐Jae , Kim Tai‐Gyu
Published: January 2020

HLA‐DRB1*04:277 differs from HLA‐DRB1*04:06:01:01 in codon 62 in exon 2.
Distinct non‐coding RNAs confer root‐dependent sense transgene‐induced post‐transcriptional gene silencing and nitrogen‐dependent post‐transcriptional regulation to AtAMT1;1 transcripts in Arabidopsis roots
Authors: Zhang Yongjian , Wu Xiangyu , Yuan Lixing
Published: January 2020

High‐affinity ammonium uptake in roots mediate by AMT1‐type ammonium transporters, which are tightly controlled at multiple regulatory levels for adapting various nitrogen availability. For Arabidopsis AtAMT1;1 gene, in addition to the transcriptional and post‐translational controls, an organ‐dependent and N‐dependent post‐transcriptional regulation was suggested as an additional regulatory step for fine tuning ammonium uptake, but the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Here, we showed that degradation of AtAMT1;1 transcript in roots of Pro35s:AtAMT1;1‐transformed atamt1;1‐1 Arabidopsis plants resulted from RDR6‐dependent sense transgene‐induced post‐transcriptional gene silencing (S‐PTGS). The siRNAs for S‐PTGS may derive from the aberrant RNA, of which the production was co‐determined by sequence feature and excessive expression of AtAMT1;1. Switching to the expression of AtAMT1;1 driven by ProAtUBQ10 or of AtAMT1;1 mutated at two siRNA‐targeted hotspots reduced AtAMT1;1‐specific siRNAs and overcame S‐PTGS in roots. In roots of these lines, however, the steady‐state transcript levels of AtAMT1;1 still significantly decreased under conditions of N‐sufficiency compared with N‐deficiency, confirming a N‐dependent post‐transcriptional regulatory manner. A crucial role of the 207‐bp 3′‐end sequence of AtAMT1;1 was further demonstrated by N‐dependent accumulation of chimeric‐AtAMT1;1 transcript in T‐DNA insertion lines and of GFP‐tagged chimeric‐AtAMT1;1 transcript in transgenic lines. A novel non‐coding RNA (ncRNA), which was highly abundant in N‐sufficient roots, may target the above‐identified 3′‐end region for the degrading AtAMT1;1 transcript. This degradation could be prevented by a mutation on the AtAMT1;1 transcript at a potential cleavage site (+1458). These results suggested two distinct mechanisms of regulating AtAMT1;1 mRNA turnover by ncRNA for strictly control of ammonium uptake in roots.
The complex response of free and bound amino acids to water stress during the seed setting stage in Arabidopsis
Authors: Yobi Abou , Bagaza Clement , Batushansky Albert , Shrestha Vivek , Emery Marianne L. , Holden Samuel , Turner‐Hissong Sarah , Miller Nathan D. , Mawhinney Thomas P. , Angelovici Ruthie
Published: January 2020

Free amino acids (FAAs) and protein‐bound amino acids (PBAAs) in seeds play an important role in seed desiccation, longevity, and germination. However, the effect that water stress has on these two functional pools, especially when imposed during the crucial seed setting stage is unclear. To better understand these effects, we exposed Arabidopsis plants at the seed setting stage to a range of water limitation and water deprivation conditions and then evaluated physiological, metabolic, and proteomic parameters, with special focus on FAAs and PBAAs. We found that in response to severe water limitation, seed yield decreased, while seed weight, FAA, and PBAA content per seed increased. Nevertheless, the composition of FAAs and PBAAs remained unaltered. In response to severe water deprivation, however, both seed yield and weight were reduced. In addition, major alterations were observed in both FAA and proteome compositions, which indicated that both osmotic adjustment and proteomic reprogramming occurred in these naturally desiccation‐tolerant organs. However, despite the major proteomic alteration, the PBAA composition did not change, suggesting that the proteomic reprogramming was followed by a proteomic rebalancing. Proteomic rebalancing has not been observed previously in response to stress, but its occurrence under stress strongly suggests its natural function. Together, our data show that the dry seed PBAA composition plays a key role in seed fitness and therefore is rigorously maintained even under severe water stress, while the FAA composition is more plastic and adaptable to changing environments, and that both functional pools are distinctly regulated.
Multigene phylogeny reveals convergent evolution in small interstitial catfishes from the Amazon and Atlantic forests (Siluriformes: Trichomycteridae)
Authors: Costa Wilson J. E. M. , Henschel Elisabeth , Katz Axel M.
Published: January 2020

Interstitial trichomycterid catfishes of the Glanapteryginae and Sarcoglanidinae with uncommon morphology have been known for long time from taxa endemic to the Amazon. In most recent decades, two genera, Listrura and Microcambeva, respectively, placed in Glanapteryginae and Sarcoglanidinae on the basis of morphological characters, have been described from the Atlantic Forest of eastern South America, about 1,500 km from the area inhabited by those Amazon taxa. Herein, we first test the phylogenetic positioning of Listrura and Microcambeva using a multigene data set, including two nuclear and three mitochondrial genes for nine species of Listrura and Microcambeva and 11 species representing all closely related subfamilies (TSVSG‐clade), as well as five used as outgroups. The phylogenetic analyses generated a robust tree with high support values in all nodes, where monophyly of Glanapteryginae and Sarcoglanidinae is refuted. In contrast, Listrura and Microcambeva form a highly supported clade, herein formally described as a new subfamily, sister to a clade containing taxa representing the Glanapteryginae, Sarcoglanidinae, Stegophilinae, Tridentinae and Vandelliinae. This study also indicates that Microcambeva and Listrura exhibit divergent evolutionary trends in ecological and morphological attributes. Species of Microcambeva inhabit patches of loose sand and possess morphological traits that were convergently acquired by Amazon sand‐dwelling sarcoglanidines, including loss of body pigmentation and long maxilla. Species of Listrura live burrowed inside small stretches of dense leaf litter and have morphological traits that were convergently acquired by Amazon glanapterygines inhabiting leaf litter bottom rivers, including elongate body, with numerous vertebrae and loss or reduction of all fins.
High School Teaching Practice With Young People From the Periphery: A Study of the “Good Teacher”
Authors: Mesquita Silvana Soares de Araujo
Published: January 2020

The article discusses the teaching performance of high school teachers in a school attended by to youths of popular sectors. The objective was to identify the teaching practices of the teachers identified by students as “good teachers”. The research was conducted in a public school in the periphery of the Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The data was collected using questionnaires, observations and interviews. We identified a teaching practice marked by relational and motivational dimensions, characterizing a new professionality of the high school teacher. It turns out a "good teacher" is a relationship professional, sense builder and catalyst of the learning process of young.
Cerebral metabolism, oxidation and inflammation in severe passive hyperthermia with and without respiratory alkalosis
Authors: Bain Anthony R. , Hoiland Ryan L. , Donnelly Joseph , Nowak‐Flück Daniela , Sekhon Mypinder , Tymko Michael M. , Greiner Jared J. , DeSouza Christopher A. , Ainslie Philip N.
Published: January 2020

Key points

It was unknown whether respiratory alkalosis impacts the global cerebral metabolic response as well as the cerebral pro‐oxidation and inflammatory response in passive hyperthermia.

This study demonstrated that the cerebral metabolic rate was increased by ∼20% with passive hyperthermia of up to +2°C oesophageal temperature, and this response was unaffected by respiratory alkalosis.

Additionally, the increase in cerebral metabolism did not significantly impact the net cerebral release of oxidative and inflammatory markers.

These data indicate that passive heating of up to +2°C core temperature in healthy young men is not enough to confer a major oxidative and inflammatory burden on the brain, but it does markedly increase the cerebral metabolic rate, independently of .

There is limited information concerning the impact of arterial /pH on heat‐induced alteration in cerebral metabolism, as well as on the cerebral oxidative/inflammatory burden of hyperthermia. Accordingly, we sought to address two hypotheses: (1) passive hyperthermia will increase the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) consistent with a combined influence of Q10 and respiratory alkalosis; and (2) the net cerebral release of pro‐oxidative and pro‐inflammatory markers will be elevated in hyperthermia, particularly in poikilocapnic hyperthermia. Healthy young men (n = 6) underwent passive heating until an oesophageal temperature of 2°C above resting was reached. At 0.5°C increments in core temperature, CMRO2 was calculated from the product of cerebral blood flow (ultrasound) and the radial artery–jugular venous oxygen content difference (cannulation). Net cerebral glucose/lactate exchange, and biomarkers of oxidative and inflammatory stress were also measured. At +2.0°C oesophageal temperature, arterial was restored to normothermic values using end‐tidal forcing. The primary findings were: (1) while CMRO2 was increased (P < 0.05) by ∼20% with hyperthermia of +1.5–2.0°C, this was not influenced by respiratory alkalosis, and (2) although biomarkers of pro‐oxidation and pro‐inflammation were systemically elevated in hyperthermia (P < 0.05), there were no differences in the trans‐cerebral exchange kinetics. These novel data indicate that passive heating of up to +2°C core temperature in healthy young men is not enough to confer a major oxidative and inflammatory burden on the brain, despite it markedly increasing CMRO2, irrespective of arterial pH.
Translation of Cryobiological Techniques to Socially Economically Deprived Populations—Part 1: Cryogenic Preservation Strategies
Authors: Buriak Iryna , Fleck Roland A. , Goltsev Anatoliy , Shevchenko Nadiya , Petrushko Maryna , Yurchuk Taisiia , Puhovkin Anton , Rozanova Svitlana , Guibert Edgardo Elvio , Robert Maria Celeste , de Paz Leonardo Juan , Powell-Palm Matthew J. , Fuller Barry
Published: January 2020

Use of cold for preservation of biological materials, avoidance of food spoilage and to manage a variety of medical conditions has been known for centuries. The cryobiological science justified these applications in the 1960s increasing their use in expanding global activities. However, the engineering and technological aspects associated with cryobiology can be expensive and this raises questions about the abilities of resource-restricted low and middle income countries (LMICs) to benefit from the advances. This review was undertaken to understand where or how access to cryobiological advances currently exist and the constraints on their usage. The subject areas investigated were based on themes which commonly appear in the journal Cryobiology. This led in the final analysis for separating the review into two parts, with the first part dealing with cold applied for biopreservation of living cells and tissues in science, health care and agriculture, and the second part dealing with cold destruction of tissues in medicine. The limitations of the approaches used are recognized, but as a first attempt to address these topics surrounding access to cryobiology in LMICs, the review should pave the way for future more subject-specific assessments of the true global uptake of the benefits of cryobiology.
Design and Development of a Quasi-Passive Transtibial Biarticular Prosthesis to Replicate Gastrocnemius Function in Walking
Authors: Willson Andrea M. , Richburg Chris A. , Czerniecki Joseph , Steele Katherine M. , Aubin Patrick M.
Published: January 2020

Lower-limb amputees experience many gait impairments and limitations. Some of these impairments can be attributed to the lack of a functioning biarticular gastrocnemius (GAS) muscle. We propose a transtibial prosthesis that implements a quasi-passive spring mechanism to replicate GAS function. A prototype biarticular prosthesis (BP) was designed, built, and tested on one subject with a transtibial amputation. They walked on an instrumented treadmill with motion capture under three different biarticular spring stiffness conditions. A custom-developed OpenSim musculoskeletal model, which included the BP, was used to calculate the work performed and torque applied by the BP spring on the knee and ankle joints. The BP functioned as expected, generating forces with similar timing to GAS. Work transfer occurred from the ankle to the knee, with stiffer springs transferring more energy. Driven mostly by kinematics, the quasi-passive design of the BP consumed very low power (5.15 W average) and could lend itself well to future lightweight, low-power designs.
Burst Pressure Prediction of Pipes With Internal Corrosion Defects
Authors: Fahed M. , Barsoum I. , Alfantazi A. , Islam M. D.
Published: January 2020

Corrosion in pipeline walls can lead to severe loss of material to a point which will cause complete loss of pipeline integrity. The contemporary approach of corrosion prevention is to use internal lining system to isolate the corrosive medium from the inner surface of the host pipe. The objective of this study is to assess the burst pressure of pipelines with internal corrosion defects. The mechanical response of carbon steel API X42, X52, and X70 pipe grades are empirically estimated and implemented in a finite element model. The geometry of an internal corrosion defect is defined through its depth, width, and length, and a parametric study is undertaken to investigate the influence of the corrosion defect parameters to the overall burst pressure of the pipe. Based on the results from the parametric study, the Buckingham π-theorem is used to derive an analytical closed-form expression to predict the burst pressure of internally corroded pipes, which is found to agree markedly well with the experimental results.