bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual Parasiticidal Activities of Phthalimides: Synthesis and Biological Profile against Trypanosoma cruzi and Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Teixeira de Moraes Gomes Paulo André , Veríssimo de Oliveira Cardoso Marcos , dos Santos Ignes Regina , Amaro de Sousa Fabiano , da Conceição Juliana Maria , Gouveia de Melo Silva Vanessa , Duarte Denise , Pereira Raquel , Oliveira Rafael , Nogueira Fátima , Alves Luiz Carlos , Brayner Fabio André , da Silva Santos Aline Caroline , Rêgo Alves Pereira Valéria , Lima Leite Ana Cristina
Published: August 2020

Chagas disease and malaria are two neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) that prevail in tropical and subtropical regions in 149 countries. Chagas is also present in Europe, the US and Australia due to immigration of asymptomatic infected individuals. In the absence of an effective vaccine, the control of both diseases relies on chemotherapy. However, the emergence of parasite drug resistance is rendering currently available drugs obsolete. Hence, it is crucial to develop new molecules. Phthalimides, thiosemicarbazones, and 1,3‐thiazoles have been used as scaffolds to obtain antiplasmodial and anti‐Trypanosoma cruzi agents. Herein we present the synthesis of 24 phthalimido‐thiosemicarbazones (3 a–x) and 14 phthalimido‐thiazoles (4 a–n) and the corresponding biological activity against T. cruzi, Plasmodium falciparum, and cytotoxicity against mammalian cell lines. Some of these compounds showed potent inhibition of T. cruzi at low cytotoxic concentrations in RAW 264.7 cells. The most active compounds, 3 t (IC50=3.60 μM), 3 h (IC50=3.75 μM), and 4 j (IC50=4.48 μM), were more active than the control drug benznidazole (IC50=14.6 μM). Overall, the phthalimido‐thiosemicarbazone derivatives were more potent than phthalimido‐thiazole derivatives against T. cruzi. Flow cytometry assay data showed that compound 4 j was able to induce necrosis and apoptosis in trypomastigotes. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy showed that T. cruzi trypomastigote cells treated with compounds 3 h, 3 t, and 4 j at IC50 concentrations promoted changes in the shape, flagella, and surface of the parasite body similar to those observed in benznidazole‐treated cells. The compounds with the highest antimalarial activity were the phthalimido‐thiazoles 4 l (IC50=1.2 μM), 4 m (IC50=1.7 μM), and 4 n (IC50=2.4 μM). Together, these data revealed that phthalimido derivatives possess a dual antiparasitic profile with potential effects against T. cruzi and lead‐like characteristics.
What 20 years of research has taught us about the TP53 p.R337H mutation
Authors: Pinto Emilia Modolo , Zambetti Gerard P.
Published: August 2020

The p53 tumor suppressor transcriptionally regulates a myriad of genes involved in cell cycle control, DNA repair, cell survival, and cell metabolism and represents one of the most well‐studied inhibitors of tumorigenesis. Since the discovery of TP53 in 1979, somatic mutations have been shown to be extremely common; more than 50% of human cancers carry loss‐of‐function mutations in TP53. Inherited or germline TP53 mutations are rare and are involved in complex hereditary cancer predisposition disorders, and affected family members can develop diverse tumor types and multiple primary cancers at young ages. In Brazil, a fascinating history of p53 and cancer predisposition began in the year 2000 with identification of the TP53 p.R337H mutation in close association with the development of adrenocortical tumors. In these past 20 years, much has been learned about the genetics and biochemistry of this mutation, which is widespread in Brazil because of a founder effect. This review highlights the contributions of TP53 p.R337H research over the last 20 years, the findings of which have sparked passionate debate among researchers worldwide, to understanding cancer predisposition in Brazilian individuals and families.
Parental education and cancer mortality in children, adolescents, and young adults: A case‐cohort study within the 2011 Italian census cohort
Authors: Alicandro Gianfranco , Bertuccio Paola , Sebastiani Gabriella , La Vecchia Carlo , Frova Luisa
Published: August 2020

Background

Progress in the treatment of juvenile cancers has led to remarkable improvements in survival. However, not all families have the resources to cope with the burden that such diseases require. This study was aimed at evaluating the association between parental education and cancer mortality in children, adolescents, and young adults.

Methods

This was a case‐cohort study based on 1889 cancer cases and 108,387 noncases sampled from the 2011 Italian census cohort of 10,964,837 individuals younger than 20 years and followed for 6 years. Mortality rate ratios (MRRs) were estimated for individuals with parents with high and intermediate levels of education (International Standard Classification of Education [ISCED] levels 5‐8 and 3‐4, respectively) in comparison with individuals with less educated parents (ISCED levels < 3) through multiple Poisson regression models.

Results

Over the follow‐up, 684, 858, and 347 cancer cases with parents with the lowest, intermediate, and highest levels of education, respectively, were registered. In comparison with the individuals with parents with the lowest level of education, the MRR from all neoplasms was 0.92 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.83‐1.03) for those with parents with an intermediate level of education and 0.83 (95% CI, 0.72‐0.95) for those with parents with the highest level of education. The MRRs from all neoplasms for individuals with parents with the highest level of education were 0.88 (95% CI, 0.69‐1.11) among children, 0.87 (95% CI, 0.70‐1.06) among adolescents, and 0.64 (95% CI, 0.50‐0.83) among young adults.

Conclusions

Children, adolescents, and young adults with highly educated parents have reduced mortality from cancer. This calls for further efforts to optimize treatment for children of less educated parents.
Evaluation of NR4A3 immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescence in situ hybridization and comparison with DOG1 IHC for FNA diagnosis of acinic cell carcinoma
Authors: Skaugen John M. , Seethala Raja R. , Chiosea Simion I. , Landau Michael S.
Published: August 2020

Background

Acinic cell carcinoma (AcCC) is diagnostically challenging on fine‐needle aspiration because it can mimic several other neoplasms or even normal acinar tissue. Immunopositivity for DOG1, especially circumferential membranous staining, can support the diagnosis of AcCC but is not entirely specific, and it is prone to technical and interpretive challenges on small specimens. NR4A3 (nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 3) translocation and nuclear NR4A3 overexpression were recently described in the majority of AcCCs. Here, the authors evaluate the performance of NR4A3 immunohistochemistry (IHC) and NR4A3 break‐apart fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) on cell block preparations and compare them with DOG1 IHC in distinguishing AcCC from other entities in the differential diagnosis.

Methods

The authors identified 34 cytology cell blocks with lesional cells, including 11 specimens of AcCC (2 of which derived from 1 patient and showed high‐grade transformation) as well as 2 secretory carcinomas, 7 salivary duct carcinomas, 4 mucoepidermoid carcinomas, 3 oncocytomas, 3 renal cell carcinomas, and 6 specimens containing nonneoplastic salivary gland tissue. NR4A3 IHC, DOG1 IHC, and NR4A3 FISH were attempted for all cases.

Results

NR4A3 IHC had 81.8% sensitivity and 100% specificity for AcCC, whereas NR4A3 FISH had 36.4% sensitivity and 100% specificity, although 4 cases (3 mucoepidermoid carcinomas and 1 salivary gland tissue sample) could not be analyzed because of low cellularity. Notably, no normal acinar tissue specimens showed NR4A3 positivity by IHC or FISH. In addition, DOG1 IHC had 72.7% sensitivity and 92% specificity.

Conclusions

NR4A3 IHC is highly specific for the diagnosis of AcCC and is more sensitive than DOG1 IHC and NR4A3 FISH. In addition, NR4A3 IHC performance is not improved by the inclusion of DOG1 IHC. Finally, NR4A3 positivity resolves the perennial problem of distinguishing AcCC from normal acinar tissue.
A proteomic view on the differential phenotype of Schwann cells derived from mouse sensory and motor nerves
Authors: Shen Mi , Tang Wei , Cheng Zhenghui , Zhang Qi , Chen Zixin , Tian Yingchao , Zhang Yawen , He Qianru , Shi Haiyan , Zhu Hui , Wu Han , Ji Yuhua , Ding Fei
Published: August 2020

Schwann cells (SCs) are myelin‐forming glial cells of the peripheral nervous system. Recent studies suggested that SCs comprise two phenotypes: sensory SCs and motor SCs, which are associated with the modality‐specific promotion of sensory and motor axon growth during peripheral neuronal regeneration. However, the molecular basis of the two phenotypic SCs is unclear. We established a workflow to obtain highly purified SCs derived from sensory nerve (SNdSCs) and motor nerve (MNdSCs) from B6; D2‐Tg(s100B‐EGFP)1Wjt/J mice. Subsequently, a quantitative proteomic analysis based on iTRAQ labeling was performed to compare the proteome of SNdSCs and MNdSCs. A total of 6,567 proteins were identified, of which 63 and 11 proteins were overexpressed in SNdSCs and MNdSCs, respectively. Three of the overexpressed proteins were further validated by western blot and immunocytochemistry: GMFB and CNPase, which were overexpressed in sensory SNdSCs, and histone H4, which was overexpressed in MNdSCs. The expression pattern of the three proteins was also validated in the dorsal roots and ventral roots. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that proteins highly expressed in SNdSCs are mainly involved in RNA processing and protein synthesis, while those overexpressed in MNdSCs are related to cell proliferation. Real‐time cell analysis confirmed that the proliferation activity of MNdSCs is higher than that of SNdSCs. This study is the first to provide a proteomic view of the differential phenotype of mouse SNdSCs and MNdSCs. The data may serve as a valuable source for the study of the biological characteristics of these two SC phenotypes and their roles in nerve‐specific regeneration.
Differential development of myelin in zebra finch song nuclei
Authors: Champoux Katharine L. , Miller Kimberly E. , Perkel David J.
Published: August 2020

Songbirds learn vocalizations by hearing and practicing songs. As song develops, the tempo becomes faster and more precise. In the songbird brain, discrete nuclei form interconnected myelinated circuits that control song acquisition and production. The myelin sheath increases the speed of action potential propagation by insulating the axons of neurons and by reducing membrane capacitance. As the brain develops, myelin increases in density, but the time course of myelin development across discrete song nuclei has not been systematically studied in a quantitative fashion. We tested the hypothesis that myelination develops differentially across time and song nuclei. We examined myelin development in the brains of the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) from chick at posthatch day (d) 8 to adult (up to 147 d) in five major song nuclei: HVC (proper name), robust nucleus of the arcopallium (RA), Area X, lateral magnocellular nucleus of the anterior nidopallium, and medial portion of the dorsolateral thalamic nucleus (DLM). All of these nuclei showed an increase in the density of myelination during development but at different rates and to different final degrees. Exponential curve fits revealed that DLM showed earlier myelination than other nuclei, and HVC showed the slowest myelination of song nuclei. Together, these data show differential maturation of myelination in different portions of the song system. Such differential maturation would be well placed to play a role in regulating the development of learned song.
Analyzing a decade of Colors of the Year
Authors: Gijsenij Arjan , Vazirian Marjan , Kirchner Eric , Spiers Peter , Lai Peihua , Westland Stephen , Koeckhoven Pim
Published: August 2020

The Color of the Year was first introduced by Pantone in 2000, and recently (the last decade) we saw the trend of introducing a Color of the Year being picked up by more and more companies. Paints and coatings companies typically select their colors of the year by extensive research by designers and trend experts, resulting in a plurality of colors being introduced as Color of the Year, every year. In this article, we collated colors of the year of 15 different paints and coatings companies published in the past decade and we show that most colors of the year can be described as neutral or off‐white color (ie, the median value for NCS Chromaticness is low, 20%) although occasionally colors of the year have high NCS Chromaticness. We demonstrate that the distribution of colors of the year follow a certain narrative from year to year: The average Lightness and Chroma (averaged over all companies, per year) appear to follow a wavelike pattern, where the average Lightness appears to repeat itself every ~8 years and the average Chroma approximately every 4.5 years. Similarly, we can see a cyclic pattern in the hue: From mostly yellowish red or greenish blue in 2015, towards predominantly blue in 2017, to a wide variation in hues in 2020 suggesting a fragmentation in colors of the year preferences. In addition, we demonstrate that the colors of the year differ significantly from what can be expected if the colors would have been selected randomly. This could reflect the fact that paint companies use similar raw data to identify their color trends.
PMDA’s Vision for Horizon Scanning of Emerging Technologies Potentially Relevant to the Development of New Medical Products: The Regulatory Challenge
Authors: Shimokawa Masafumi , Sato Daisaku , Wakao Rika , Arai Hiroyuki
Published: August 2020

A key goal of regulatory agencies for medical products is to make innovative products available to patients and the medical community in a timely manner in order to improve the quality of public health and health care. Thus, regulators must respond quickly to emerging technologies. It is a horizon scanning method, based on which the Japanese regulatory agency will have the expertise prior to review of forthcoming products of evolving technologies.
Fatigue‐Resistant Crosslinked Azopolymers with Inhibited H‐Aggregation for Efficient Photopatterning
Authors: Yue Youfeng , Azumi Reiko , Norikane Yasuo
Published: August 2020

The ability to repeatedly record information with external stimuli, in particular light, is of fundamental importance for the development of photoresponsive materials. Here, we demonstrated a photo‐patterning system by using crosslinked azopolymers incorporating meta‐substituted azobenzene (M‐azo) moieties into dodecyl glyceryl itaconate (DGI) polymer networks. M‐azo inhibited H‐aggregation and showed efficient trans‐to‐cis photoisomerization in the crystal and film states, making photopatterning of the crosslinked polymers fully reversible. Macro‐ or microscale patterning could be written and erased in a reversible manner using light on the polymer film with fast response, high resolution, and flexibility. Moreover, these polymer films exhibited good fatigue resistance, which enabled hundreds of cyclic photo‐writing and erasing tests without any decay under alternating UV/Vis irradiation. The high fatigue resistance indicates the ability of the azopolymers to repeatedly harvest and convert light energy into chemical conformation in the polymer networks by taking advantages of efficient photoisomerization.
Genome‐wide association study of resistance to anthracnose and angular leaf spot in Brazilian Mesoamerican and Andean common bean cultivars
Authors: Vidigal Filho Pedro S. , Gonçalves‐Vidigal Maria Celeste , Vaz Bisneta Mariana , Souza Vanet B. , Gilio Thiago A.S. , Calvi Alexandre A. , Lima Laize R.L. , Pastor‐Corrales Marcial A. , Melotto Maeli
Published: August 2020

Anthracnose (ANT) and angular leaf spot (ALS) are devastating diseases of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) worldwide, and identification of new sources of ANT and ALS resistance is a major priority in breeding programs. The ANT and ALS reaction of 57 Andean and 58 Mesoamerican accessions from five Brazilian states were evaluated. Three Mesoamerican and eight Andean accessions were resistant to races 9, 65, 73, 2047, and 3481 of the ANT pathogen, while four Mesoamerican and 14 Andean accessions were resistant to four of the ANT pathogen races. Furthermore, 13 Mesoamerican and 30 Andean accessions were resistant to races 31‐23 and 63‐39 of the ALS pathogen. To understand the genetic basis of ANT and ALS resistance, a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) was conducted using the 115 accessions, revealing new sources of resistance in Andean and Mesoamerican accessions. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers associated with races 9 and 73 of ANT was positioned on chromosome Pv04; resistance to race 65 on chromosomes Pv01, Pv04, and Pv08; and resistance to races 2047 and 3481 on chromosomes Pv10 and Pv05, respectively. Furthermore, SNPs associated with race 31‐23 of Pseudocercospora griseola (Sacc.) Crous & U. Braun were mapped on chromosomes Pv02 and Pv04, whereas for race 63‐39, SNPs were mapped on chromosomes Pv03, Pv06, and Pv08. The SNP markers and candidate genes found associated with the resistance should be validated in segregating populations, which could further be used for marker‐assisted selection. As a result, breeding programs might be able to develop resistant bean cultivars to ANT and ALS.
A proposed framework for assessing the influence of internal corporate social responsibility belief on employee intention to job continuity
Authors: Sanusi Fasilat Aramide , Johl Satirenjit Kaur
Published: August 2020

This study develops a comprehensive conceptual framework and propositions that integrate the concept of internal corporate social responsibility (ICSR) belief with employee intention to job continuity for solving the existing problem of employee's job turnover. A careful examination of existing literature on the construct of ICSR facilitates the necessity for the development of a research framework consisting of several research propositions. An integrated conceptual framework of ICSR belief and employee intention to job continuity was constructed based on the existing conceptualization of corporate social responsibility and ICSR. In addition, this paper proposes a quantitative research method to obtain information about ICSR belief and employee intention to job continuity. Questionnaire instrument will be used to collect data from the employee. The paper also proposes partial least square structural equation modeling for the proposed study analysis. Finally, the conceptual framework provides a logical path for future studies. Theoretically, the effect of ICSR on employee's job engagement was found inconclusive and requires further academic deliberation. In this study, a total number of six propositions were developed to provide an opportunity for informed decision‐making that will enhance sustainable performance. The research framework and propositions were developed to cater for the need to improve management and employee relationship in the workplace to build a positive functional work environment that promotes valuable performance. This will also insight the global sustainable initiative pertaining to human resource management. Finally, completion of this study will have implications on local as well as the international labor development.
How Far Are We in Combating Marine Oil Spills by Using Phase‐Selective Organogelators?
Authors: Vibhute Amol M. , Sureshan Kana M.
Published: August 2020

Marine oil spills is one of the frequent natural disasters that adversely affect the economy and ecosystem. A variety of methods have been developed to combat marine oil spills. However, none of these methods is ideal and universal for tackling different kinds of oil spills. In addition, most of these methods do not offer the possibility for recovering the spilt oil. There is great interest in developing novel and better methods for combating marine oil spills that allow recovery of the spilt oil. The use of low molecular weight organogelators that can selectively congeal oil from oil–water mixtures have been proposed to be useful for oil spill recovery. From this initial proposal, the area has progressed gradually towards their practical implementation. The advancements and novel concepts in this area are reviewed.
Distinct macrophage phenotypes skewed by local granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) and macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF) are associated with tissue destruction and intimal hyperplasia in giant cell arteritis
Authors: Jiemy William F , van Sleen Yannick , van der Geest Kornelis SM , ten Berge Hilde A , Abdulahad Wayel H , Sandovici Maria , Boots Annemieke MH , Heeringa Peter , Brouwer Elisabeth
Published: August 2020

Objective

To determine the presence and spatial distribution of different macrophage phenotypes, governed by granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) and macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF) skewing signals, in giant cell arteritis (GCA) lesions.

Methods

Temporal artery biopsies (TABs, n = 11) from treatment‐naive GCA patients, aorta samples from GCA‐related aneurysms (n = 10) and atherosclerosis (n = 10) were stained by immunohistochemistry targeting selected macrophage phenotypic markers, cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and growth factors. In vitro macrophage differentiation (n = 10) followed by flow cytometry, Luminex assay and ELISA were performed to assess whether GM‐CSF and M‐CSF are drivers of macrophage phenotypic heterogeneity.

Results

A distinct spatial distribution pattern of macrophage phenotypes in TABs was identified. CD206+/MMP‐9+ macrophages were located at the site of tissue destruction, whereas FRβ+ macrophages were located in the inner intima of arteries with high degrees of intimal hyperplasia. Notably, this pattern was also observed in macrophage‐rich areas in GCA aortas but not in atherosclerotic aortas. Flow cytometry showed that GM‐CSF treatment highly upregulated CD206 expression, while FRβ was expressed by M‐CSF‐skewed macrophages, only. Furthermore, localised expression of GM‐CSF and M‐CSF was detected, likely contributing to macrophage heterogeneity in the vascular wall.

Conclusions

Our data document a distinct spatial distribution pattern of CD206+/MMP‐9+ macrophages and FRβ+ macrophages in GCA linked to tissue destruction and intimal proliferation, respectively. We suggest that these distinct macrophage phenotypes are skewed by sequential GM‐CSF and M‐CSF signals. Our study adds to a better understanding of the development and functional role of macrophage phenotypes in the pathogenesis of GCA and opens opportunities for the design of macrophage‐targeted therapies.
Adenoid cystic carcinoma cytology: Salivary gland and nonsalivary gland
Authors: Chowsilpa Sayanan , An Daniel , Maleki Zahra
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACCA) is an uncommon primary malignancy of salivary glands and rarely nonsalivary tissue. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ACCA on fine needle aspiration (FNA) material and the associated challenges.

Methods

A search on electronic pathology database from 2006 to 2016 at The Johns Hopkins Hospital found 83 cytology specimens diagnosed as ACCA, 49 with histology follow‐up.

Results

Fifty‐two females and 31 males were found ranging from 37 to 95 years old (mean 62.5). The tumor size was 1 to 11.5 cm (mean 3.4). FNAs were performed on 46 salivary glands (54.88%), 12 head and neck masses (14.45%), 9 lymph nodes (10.84%), 9 tracheas/lungs (10.84%), 4 vaginal/perineum/gluteal masses (4.82%), and one for each kidney, liver and abdominal/pelvic mass (1.21%). 83 FNA diagnoses revealed 3 nondiagnostics (3.61%), 20 neoplasms with unspecified features (24.10%), 30 basaloid neoplasms (36.14%), 18 ACCA (21.69%), and 12 other malignancies (14.46%). The accuracy of FNA in diagnosis of ACCA comparing to histologic follow‐up in 49 cases was 87.5% sensitivity, 66.67% specificity, with 92.11% positive predictive value and 54.55% negative predictive value. The most common mimicker was pleomorphic adenoma.

Conclusion

ACCA can be diagnosed not only in the salivary gland FNAs, but also respiratory tract, intra‐abdominal, kidney, and gynecologic regions. FNA is a preferred technique to assess mass lesions. However, a diagnosis of ACCA on FNA material should be rendered with caution since there are benign and malignant neoplasms with overlapping features. Awareness of prior medical history and ancillary studies can improve the diagnosis.
Clinical performance of the aptima HPV assay in 4196 women with positive high‐risk HPV and ASC‐US cytology: A large women hospital experience
Authors: Wang Tiannan , Pradhan Dinesh , Zhang Huina , Matsko Jonee , Zhao Chengquan
Published: August 2020

Background

Despite Aptima assay as the latest US Food Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved high‐risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) test has been implemented as an adjunct in cervical cancer screening for years, histological follow‐up data remain limited with respect to its performance in women with ASC‐US Pap tests and positive hrHPV results.

Methods

Cases with results of ASC‐US cytology and positive hrHPV by Aptima assay during the period 06/ 2015–02/2017 were retrieved from archived pathology reports. Immediate histological follow‐up results were analyzed within 6 months interval after cotesting.

Results

Among 4196 women with ASC‐US Pap tests and positive hrHPV, 51.1% of them had the immediate histological follow‐up within 6 months. With positive Aptima hrHPV as the adjunct, 46.5% (95%CI 46.2–46.8) of ASC‐US women were found to have cervical intraepithelial neoplasia type 1 (CIN1); 8.8% (95%CI 8.1‐9.5) women were detected CIN2+ lesion including eight adenocarcinoma in‐situ (AIS)s. CIN2+ detection rates were highest in women under 25 (15.4%, n = 65), when comparison with different age cutoffs, younger age women had higher CIN2+ lesion detection rate than that in older group (P <.01).

Conclusion

This is by far one of the largest retrospective studies to analyze the histological follow‐up results of ASC‐US women with positive hrHPV tested by Aptima hrHPV mRNA assay. The results indicated that younger women with ASC‐US and positive hrHPV testing have highest risk of developing high grade CIN lesions as compared to the older women. Lastly, with positive HPV as the adjunct, 55.3% (1186/2145) of ASC‐US women will result in the positive finding on histological follow‐up.
Examining day hospital treatment outcomes for sexual minority patients with eating disorders
Authors: Donahue Joseph M. , DeBenedetto Anthony M. , Wierenga Christina E. , Kaye Walter H. , Brown Tiffany A.
Published: August 2020

Objective

Epidemiological data support that sexual minorities (SM) report higher levels of eating pathology. Theories suggest these disparities exist due to stressors specific to belonging to a minority group; however, few studies have specifically explored differences between SM and heterosexual individuals in clinical eating disorder samples. Thus, the present study compared SM and heterosexual patients with eating disorders on demographic characteristics and eating disorder and psychological outcomes during day hospital treatment.

Method

Patients (N = 389) completed surveys of eating pathology, mood, anxiety, and skills use at treatment admission, 1‐month post‐admission, discharge, and 6‐month follow‐up. Overall, 19.8% of patients (n = 79) identified as SM, while 8.0% (n = 32) reported not identifying with any sexual orientation. SM were more likely to present across genders (17.7% of females, 24.2% of males, 33.3% of transgender patients, and 87.5% of nonbinary patients).

Results

SM patients were significantly more likely to endorse major depressive disorder, panic disorder, and self‐harm at admission than their heterosexual counterparts. Multilevel models demonstrated that across time, SM patients demonstrated greater eating pathology, emotion dysregulation, depressive symptoms, and anxiety symptoms. Significant interactions between sexual orientation and time were found for eating pathology and emotion dysregulation, such that although SM patients started treatment with higher scores, they improved at a faster rate compared to heterosexual patients.

Discussion

Consistent with minority stress theory, SM patients report greater overall eating disorder and comorbid symptoms. Importantly, results do not support that there appear to be significant disparities in treatment outcome for SM patients in this sample of day hospital patients.
A longitudinal examination of body‐checking behaviors and eating disorder pathology in a community sample of adolescent males and females
Authors: Zaitsoff Shannon L. , Pullmer Rachelle , Coelho Jennifer S.
Published: August 2020

Objective

Related to the cognitive‐behavioral theory of eating disorders, body checking has gained increasing recognition as both a maintaining factor for eating disorders and an important target for treatment. However, it is unclear whether body‐checking behaviors contribute to the development of disordered eating, or if these behaviors develop as a response to experiencing eating disorder thoughts and behaviors. This study aims to examine the relationships between body‐checking behaviors and eating disordered thoughts and behaviors in adolescent females and males in the community over time.

Methods

Participants included 238 adolescents (n = 104 males, n = 134 females, Mage = 16.5 years) recruited from high schools in British Columbia, Canada, who completed the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire and Body Checking Questionnaire at baseline (T1) and again approximately 4 months later (T2).

Results

After controlling for baseline levels of eating pathology and body mass index (BMI), body checking at T1 predicted increases in eating pathology for both males and females. In contrast, after controlling for baseline levels of body checking and BMI, eating pathology at T1 did not predict changes in body checking for females, but it did for males. Findings suggest that, among adolescents, engaging in body‐checking behaviors may increase risk for disordered eating.

Discussion

If supported by further research, targeting body‐checking behaviors in prevention programs may be warranted.
The impact of COVID‐19 epidemic on eating disorders: A longitudinal observation of pre versus post psychopathological features in a sample of patients with eating disorders and a group of healthy controls
Authors: Castellini Giovanni , Cassioli Emanuele , Rossi Eleonora , Innocenti Matteo , Gironi Veronica , Sanfilippo Giulia , Felciai Federica , Monteleone Alessio M. , Ricca Valdo
Published: August 2020

Objective

the aim of this longitudinal study was to evaluate the impact of COVID‐19 epidemic on Eating Disorders (EDs) patients, considering the role of pre‐existing vulnerabilities.

Method

74 patients with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) or Bulimia Nervosa (BN) and 97 healthy controls (HCs) were evaluated before lockdown (T1) and during lockdown (T2). Patients were also evaluated at the beginning of treatment (T0). Questionnaires were collected to assess psychopathology, childhood trauma, attachment style, and COVID‐19‐related post‐traumatic symptoms.

Results

A different trend between patients and HCs was observed only for pathological eating behaviors. Patients experienced increased compensatory exercise during lockdown; BN patients also exacerbated binge eating. Lockdown interfered with treatment outcomes: the descending trend of ED‐specific psychopathology was interrupted during the epidemic in BN patients. Previously remitted patients showed re‐exacerbation of binge eating after lockdown. Household arguments and fear for the safety of loved ones predicted increased symptoms during the lockdown. BN patients reported more severe COVID‐19‐related post‐traumatic symptomatology than AN and HCs, and these symptoms were predicted by childhood trauma and insecure attachment.

Discussion

COVID‐19 epidemic significantly impacted on EDs, both in terms of post‐traumatic symptomatology and interference with the recovery process. Individuals with early trauma or insecure attachment were particularly vulnerable.
Gaining “The Quarantine 15:” Perceived versus observed weight changes in college students in the wake of COVID‐19
Authors: Keel Pamela K. , Gomez Marielle M. , Harris Lauren , Kennedy Grace A. , Ribeiro Jessica , Joiner Thomas E.
Published: August 2020

Objective

Amidst restrictions to reduce the spread of COVID‐19, jokes have surfaced regarding weight gain during the pandemic. The current study documents perceived changes since COVID‐19 and compares these to observed longitudinal changes in reported weight, BMI, and how college students described their weight from January to April 2020.

Method

Undergraduates (N = 90; 88% female) completed on‐line assessments before and after students were required to leave campus due to COVID‐19. Time 1 and Time 2 surveys collected demographic information, height, weight, and a Likert‐scale rating to describe perceived weight, ranging from 1 = very underweight to 5 = very overweight (weight description). Time 2 surveys added questions for perceived changes since COVID‐19 in body weight, eating, physical activity, various forms of screen time, and concerns about weight, shape, and eating.

Results

Time 2 surveys indicated perceived increases in body weight, eating, and screen time, and decreases in physical activity along with increased concerns about weight, shape and eating since COVID‐19. Longitudinal data indicated no significant change in weight, body mass index (BMI), or BMI category, but how participants described their weight changed significantly from January to April 2020. Compared to longitudinal changes in BMI category, students' weight description was significantly more likely to fall into a higher category from Time 1 to Time 2.

Discussion

Shifts in how body weight is experienced in the wake of COVID‐19 that do not align with observed changes in reported weight may reflect cognitive distortions that could increase risk for disordered eating in some individuals.
Mean annual temperature influences local fine root proliferation and arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization in a tropical wet forest
Authors: Pierre Suzanne , Litton Creighton M. , Giardina Christian P , Sparks Jed P. , Fahey Timothy J.
Published: August 2020

Mean annual temperature (MAT) is an influential climate factor affecting the bioavailability of growth‐limiting nutrients nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). In tropical montane wet forests, warmer MAT drives higher N bioavailability, while patterns of P availability are inconsistent across MAT. Two important nutrient acquisition strategies, fine root proliferation into bulk soil and root association with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, are dependent on C availability to the plant via primary production. The case study presented here tests whether variation in bulk soil N bioavailability across a tropical montane wet forest elevation gradient (5.2°C MAT range) influences (a) morphology fine root proliferation into soil patches with elevated N, P, and N+P relative to background soil and (b) arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) colonization of fine roots in patches. We created a fully factorial fertilized root ingrowth core design (N, P, N+P, unfertilized control) representing soil patches with elevated N and P bioavailability relative to background bulk soil. Our results show that percent AMF colonization of roots increased with MAT (r2 = .19, p = .004), but did not respond to fertilization treatments. Fine root length (FRL), a proxy for root foraging, increased with MAT in N+P‐fertilized patches only (p = .02), while other fine root morphological parameters did not respond to the gradient or fertilized patches. We conclude that in N‐rich, fine root elongation into areas with elevated N and P declines while AMF abundance increases with MAT. These results indicate a tradeoff between P acquisition strategies occurring with changing N bioavailability, which may be influenced by higher C availability with warmer MAT.
Heat stress responses and population genetics of the kelp Laminaria digitata (Phaeophyceae) across latitudes reveal differentiation among North Atlantic populations
Authors: Liesner Daniel , Fouqueau Louise , Valero Myriam , Roleda Michael Y. , Pearson Gareth A. , Bischof Kai , Valentin Klaus , Bartsch Inka
Published: August 2020

To understand the thermal plasticity of a coastal foundation species across its latitudinal distribution, we assess physiological responses to high temperature stress in the kelp Laminaria digitata in combination with population genetic characteristics and relate heat resilience to genetic features and phylogeography. We hypothesize that populations from Arctic and cold‐temperate locations are less heat resilient than populations from warm distributional edges. Using meristems of natural L. digitata populations from six locations ranging between Kongsfjorden, Spitsbergen (79°N), and Quiberon, France (47°N), we performed a common‐garden heat stress experiment applying 15°C to 23°C over eight days. We assessed growth, photosynthetic quantum yield, carbon and nitrogen storage, and xanthophyll pigment contents as response traits. Population connectivity and genetic diversity were analyzed with microsatellite markers. Results from the heat stress experiment suggest that the upper temperature limit of L. digitata is nearly identical across its distribution range, but subtle differences in growth and stress responses were revealed for three populations from the species’ ecological range margins. Two populations at the species’ warm distribution limit showed higher temperature tolerance compared to other populations in growth at 19°C and recovery from 21°C (Quiberon, France), and photosynthetic quantum yield and xanthophyll pigment responses at 23°C (Helgoland, Germany). In L. digitata from the northernmost population (Spitsbergen, Norway), quantum yield indicated the highest heat sensitivity. Microsatellite genotyping revealed all sampled populations to be genetically distinct, with a strong hierarchical structure between southern and northern clades. Genetic diversity was lowest in the isolated population of the North Sea island of Helgoland and highest in Roscoff in the English Channel. All together, these results support the hypothesis of moderate local differentiation across L. digitata's European distribution, whereas effects are likely too weak to ameliorate the species’ capacity to withstand ocean warming and marine heatwaves at the southern range edge.
Environmental factors affect the response of microbial extracellular enzyme activity in soils when determined as a function of water availability and temperature
Authors: Gomez Enrique J. , Delgado José A. , Gonzalez Juan M.
Published: August 2020

Microorganisms govern soil carbon cycling with critical effects at local and global scales. The activity of microbial extracellular enzymes is generally the limiting step for soil organic matter mineralization. Nevertheless, the influence of soil characteristics and climate parameters on microbial extracellular enzyme activity (EEA) performance at different water availabilities and temperatures remains to be detailed. Different soils from the Iberian Peninsula presenting distinctive climatic scenarios were sampled for these analyses. Results showed that microbial EEA in the mesophilic temperature range presents optimal rates under wet conditions (high water availability) while activity at the thermophilic temperature range (60°C) could present maximum EEA rates under dry conditions if the soil is frequently exposed to high temperatures. Optimum water availability conditions for maximum soil microbial EEA were influenced mainly by soil texture. Soil properties and climatic parameters are major environmental components ruling soil water availability and temperature which were decisive factors regulating soil microbial EEA. This study contributes decisively to the understanding of environmental factors on the microbial EEA in soils, specifically on the decisive influence of water availability and temperature on EEA. Unlike previous belief, optimum EEA in high temperature exposed soil upper layers can occur at low water availability (i.e., dryness) and high temperatures. This study shows the potential for a significant response by soil microbial EEA under conditions of high temperature and dryness due to a progressive environmental warming which will influence organic carbon decomposition at local and global scenarios.
Two experimental designs generate contrasting patterns of behavioral differentiation along a latitudinal gradient in Lestes sponsa—Common‐garden not so common after all?
Authors: Golab Maria J. , Brodin Tomas , Sniegula Szymon
Published: August 2020

Understanding why and how behavioral profiles differ across latitudes can help predict behavioral responses to environmental change. The first response to environmental change that an organism exhibits is commonly a behavioral response. Change in one behavior usually results in shifts in other correlated behaviors, which may adaptively or maladaptively vary across environments and/or time. However, one important aspect that is often neglected when studying behavioral expressions among populations is if/how the experimental design might affect the results. This is unfortunate since animals often plastically modify their behavior to the environment, for example, rearing conditions. We studied behavioral traits and trait correlations in larvae of a univoltine damselfly, Lestes sponsa, along its latitudinal distribution, spreading over 3,300 km. We compared behavioral profiles among larvae grown in two conditions: (a) native temperatures and photoperiods or (b) averaged constant temperatures and photoperiods (common‐garden). We hypothesized latitudinal differences in behavioral traits regardless of the conditions in which larvae were grown, with northern populations expressing higher activity, boldness, and foraging efficiency. When grown in native conditions, northern larvae were bolder, more active and more effective in prey capture than central and low latitude populations, respectively, as well as showed the strongest behavioral correlations. In contrast, larvae reared in common‐garden conditions showed no differences between regions in both individual traits and trait correlations. The results suggest different selective pressures acting on the studied traits across populations, with environment as a central determinant of the observed trait values. Common‐garden designed experiments may evoke population‐dependent levels of plastic response to the artificial conditions and, hence, generate results that lack ecological relevance when studying multi‐population differences in behavior.
Effects of drought and mycorrhiza on wheat and aphid infestation
Authors: Pons Caroline , Voß Ann‐Cathrin , Schweiger Rabea , Müller Caroline
Published: August 2020

The impacts of climate change on worldwide crop production become increasingly severe. Thus, sustainable enhancements of agricultural production are needed. The present study investigated the effects of drought and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on wheat plants (Triticum aestivum) and their interaction with aphids. Considering predicted climate change scenarios, wheat plants were exposed to well‐watered conditions, continuous drought (CD), or pulsed (PD) drought and plants were grown without (NM) or with mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. Ear biomass and harvest index were evaluated when grains were produced. Moreover, drought‐ and mycorrhiza‐induced changes in the amino acid composition of leaf phloem exudates were studied and the population growth and survival of Sitobion avenae aphids on those plants measured. Wheat plants responded differently toward the irrigation treatments. Under drought stress, ear biomass was reduced, while AM resulted in an enhanced harvest index. In phloem exudates especially, relative concentrations of the osmoprotectant proline were modulated by drought. Aphid population size was influenced by the interaction of drought and mycorrhiza treatment. This study emphasizes the pronounced influence of irrigation frequency on plant performance and indicates positive contributions of AM that may be relevant for agriculture.
The photoresponsive micropump tape using gas generation technology
Authors: Akagi Yoshinori , Sugita Daihei , Yamamoto Kazuki
Published: August 2020

Recently, micro‐TAS (Micro Total Analysis Systems) that performs genetic testing on devices containing microfluidics has been actively studied. In micro‐TAS, a micromixer and a microreactor provided on a microfluidic device are driven by feeding reagents with micropumps. Various micropumps were developed and studied: for example, displacement pumps, electro‐osmotic pumps, chemically actuated micropumps. The diaphragm type, which is a general pump, has the problem that reagents stagnation flow on the microfluidic device due to pulsation. Focusing on gas generation technology based on photochemical reaction, we thought that gas generation by light irradiation could be used for micropumps. Here we reported the basic concept for the photochemical actuated micropump and characterized performance of the device.
Invasive dominance and resident diversity: unpacking the impact of plant invasion on biodiversity and ecosystem function
Authors: Livingstone Stuart W. , Isaac Marney E. , Cadotte Marc W.
Published: August 2020

Plant invasions have consistently been shown to cause significant reductions in the diversity of recipient plant communities; an effect that can cascade through ecosystems to impact the stocks and flows of nutrients and energy as well as the diversity of higher trophic levels. However, the manner in which invasive plants alter ecosystem functioning and trophic interactions is highly variable can occur through the direct effects of the invader's abundance and its indirect effects via changes in community diversity. Understanding the nature of these interactions between plant invasion, community diversity and ecosystem functioning can provide insight for ecosystem managers. We evaluated whether plant invasion alters the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem function (BEF) by comparing BEF models that either include or subtract the diversity and function values associated with the invasive vine,Vincetoxicum rossicum.To do this, we (1) characterizeV. rossicumwithin the functional trait space of the regional species pool, (2) assess how different components of plant biodiversity vary along aV. rossicuminvasion gradient, and (3) examine howV. rossicuminvasion affects BEF relationships and trophic interactions, both at the plot‐scale and incrementally along a site‐level invasion gradient. In general, we found thatV. rossicuminvasion was associated with significant declines in plant community diversity across a suite of biodiversity measures; a consequence ofV. rossicum's functional trait structure (height and specific leaf area). We also found thatV. rossicuminvasion resulted in significantly greater productivity (i.e., dominance effects in the inclusion model), but also that the diversity of the remaining resident community was positively associated with productivity (i.e., niche complementarity in the subtraction model). Further, we observed that while the relationship between flower cover and pollinator diversity was positive for both the inclusion and subtraction models, this relationship was stronger in the absence ofV. rossicum. Our findings suggest that while plant invasion can result in enhanced productivityviadominance effects, this comes at the cost of significant declines in diversity. However, it is also the case that remaining resident diversity can exhibit positive effects on multiple functions and support for higher trophic levels.