bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial interaction with and tolerance of radionuclides: underlying mechanisms and biotechnological applications
Authors: Lopez‐Fernandez Margarita , Jroundi Fadwa , Ruiz‐Fresneda Miguel A. , Merroun Mohamed L.
Published: December 2020

Radionuclides (RNs) generated by nuclear and civil industries are released in natural ecosystems and may have a hazardous impact on human health and the environment. RN‐polluted environments harbour different microbial species that become highly tolerant of these elements through mechanisms including biosorption, biotransformation, biomineralization and intracellular accumulation. Such microbial–RN interaction processes hold biotechnological potential for the design of bioremediation strategies to deal with several contamination problems. This paper, with its multidisciplinary approach, provides a state‐of‐the‐art review of most research endeavours aimed to elucidate how microbes deal with radionuclides and how they tolerate ionizing radiations. In addition, the most recent findings related to new biotechnological applications of microbes in the bioremediation of radionuclides and in the long‐term disposal of nuclear wastes are described and discussed.
Territorial Rights in Unoccupied Places
Authors: Moore Margaret
Published: December 2020

The standard justifications for control over territory appeal to goods that are delivered to persons who inhabit the territory (self‐determination, justice). This raises the question: What justifies territorial rights in unoccupied places? This question is relevant to a pressing practical question concerning the permissibility of national and corporate interests in mining or gas drilling and other resource extraction activities in unoccupied places, some of which were either technologically impractical or prohibitively expensive in the past, but which now are possible. The territorial rights literature does not focus on unoccupied places, treating resource rights there as an extension of rights in occupied places, thereby suggesting that these activities could be justified in the same way. This article examines the distinctive normative contours of unoccupied spaces, and so considers a number of possible arguments to justify such rights. It focuses on rights to resources in relation to three different kinds of unoccupied places and suggests that the stewardship justification is the most promising (although there is some role for other arguments in relation to certain kinds of unoccupied places).
Taxonomic significance of vertebral column and caudal skeleton of clupeid fishes (Teleostei: Clupeiformes) of Iran
Authors: Purrafee Dizaj Leyli , Esmaeili Hamid Reza , Jawad Laith , Ebrahimi Mehregan , Gholamhosseini Ali , Valinasab Tooraj
Published: December 2020

Clupeiformes (generally known as herrings, shads and sardines) with a synapomorphy of recessus lateralis are globally distributed marine, freshwater and diadromous species classified in seven families including the family Clupeidae. In this study, a comparative analysis of the vertebral column and caudal skeleton of twelve clupeid species was conducted on the basis of X‐ray imaging and usual staining method of bones and cartilages. Several osteological features including number of principal branched caudal rays bearing with hypurals on both lobes of the caudal‐fin; number, length, arrangement and shape of epural bones; shape and length of haemal and neural spines of the penultimate vertebrae 2, 3 and 4; length and shape of parhypural; length and shape of neural arch of the urostyle; distribution of the dorsal and procurrent rays, and fusion of parhypural with preural centrum 1 (PU1) were investigated and a detailed account of these structures were provided. The results reveal that the neural spine of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th penultimate vertebrae (NSPU2, NSPU3 and NSPU4) was generally narrow and broad in lower and pointed at upper part with some variation in the size and position related to the dorsal edge of the body in different taxa. The neural arch of the urostyle (Na) has been observed as spindle, lance‐like or knife‐like. It is usually long (≥1/2 length of the NSPU2) with some modification in the studied species. Two or three curved, straight, cone‐shape or pin‐shaped epurals were found in all species with the same number in congeneric species. Opisthural cartilage (O) lays between HYP6 and PLS anteriorly, located at the tip of PLS or traversed horizontally. The presence of this cartilage made a gap between first (longest) and second unbranched caudal rays in upper part of caudal‐fin. It showed six varied shapes (e.g. fusiform, golf club‐like, horn shape, trapezoid shape, crescent and triangle) with different size in comparison with HYP6. This comparative study revealed that some osteological characters such as shape and position of opisthural cartilage, shape of neural arch of the urostyle, and number of epurals could be used as suitable features for the identification of the studied clupeids at the species and genus levels. The improved knowledge of the skeletal structures provided here, can also facilitate the correct identification of clupeid fossils.
Safety profile of drugs for advanced melanoma: A report based on 2008–2018 US Food and Drug Administration Data
Authors: Casarotto Emilie , Noize Pernelle , Létinier Louis , Salvo Francesco , Pham‐Ledard Anne , Molimard Mathieu
Published: December 2020

We describe the safety profiles of all drug classes used for the treatment of advanced melanoma from the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System over 2008–2018. Adverse reactions reported in 25 900 pharmacovigilance cases are described for chemotherapies, immunomodulators, targeted therapies and immunotherapies. There was a sharp increase in the number of cases over time, with peaks associated with the launch of new treatments. The adverse reactions diversified over time; notably, skin (alopecias, dermatitis) and retinal disorders were frequently associated with targeted therapies and endocrine disorders (hypothalamus, thyroid and adrenal dysfunctions) with immunotherapies. Less well‐known reactions were also detected, such as neuropsychiatric disorders with targeted therapies and gastrointestinal ulcers, pneumothorax and pleural effusions with immunotherapies. The findings highlight the need for various health professionals (including medical specialists or trained nurses) to enhance management of complications.
Impact of lipophilic vs hydrophilic statins on the clinical outcome and biomarkers of remodelling in heart failure patients: A prospective comparative randomized study
Authors: El Said Nouran Omar , El Wakeel Lamia Mohamed , Khorshid Hazem , Darweesh Ebtissam Abdel Ghaffar , Ahmed Marwa Adel
Published: December 2020

Aims

There are insufficient direct comparative studies addressing the impact of the type of statin on their respective efficacy in heart failure (HF). The aim of the current study was to compare the effects of lipophilic (atorvastatin) vs hydrophilic (rosuvastatin) on left ventricular function, inflammatory and fibrosis biomarkers in patients with chronic HF.

Methods

This was a prospective, randomized, comparative, parallel study. A total of 85 patients with chronic HF optimized on guideline directed therapy were randomized to receive either atorvastatin 40 mg (n = 42) or rosuvastatin 20 mg (n = 43) for 6 months. Baseline and follow‐up assessment included 2D echocardiography, measurement of N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide, interleukin‐6 and soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2) levels, liver enzymes and lipid profile.

Results

The increase in left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly higher in the atorvastatin group compared to the rosuvastatin group (6.5% [3–11] vs 4% [2–5], P = .006). The reduction in left ventricular end diastolic and end systolic volume was comparable between the 2 groups. The decrease in sST2 levels in pg/mL was significantly higher in the atorvastatin compared to the rosuvastatin group (−255 [−383 to −109.8 vs − 151 [−216 to −69], P = .003). There was a significant reduction in N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide and interleukin‐6 levels in both groups, yet the reduction was comparable in both groups.

Conclusion

The study results suggest that lipophilic atorvastatin is superior to hydrophilic rosuvastatin in increasing left ventricular ejection fraction and reducing fibrosis marker sST2 in HF patients.

Trial registration ID: NCT03255044, registered on 21 August 2017.
Circulating metabolites and lipids are associated with glycaemic measures in South Asians
Authors: Gadgil Meghana D. , Kanaya Alka M. , Sands Caroline , Lewis Matthew R. , Kandula Namratha R. , Herrington David M.
Published: December 2020

Background

South Asians are at higher risk for diabetes (DM) than many other racial/ethnic groups. Circulating metabolites are measurable products of metabolic processes that may explain the aetiology of elevated risk. We characterized metabolites associated with prevalent DM and glycaemic measures in South Asians.

Methods

We included 717 participants from the Mediators of Atherosclerosis in South Asians Living in America (MASALA) study, aged 40–84 years. We used baseline fasting serum for metabolomics and demographic, behavioural, glycaemic data from baseline and at 5 years. We performed LC‐MS untargeted metabolomic and lipidomic analysis with targeted integration of known signals. Individual linear and ordinal logistic regression models were adjusted for age, sex, BMI, diet, exercise, alcohol, smoking and family history of DM followed by elastic net regression to identify metabolites most associated with the outcome.

Results

There were 258 metabolites with detectable signal in >98% of samples. Thirty‐four metabolites were associated with prevalent DM in an elastic net model. Predominant metabolites associated with DM were sphingomyelins, proline (OR 15.86; 95% CI 4.72, 53.31) and betaine (OR 0.03; 0.004, 0.14). Baseline tri‐ and di‐acylglycerols [DG (18:0/16:0) (18.36; 11.79, 24.92)] were positively associated with fasting glucose and long‐chain acylcarnitines [CAR 26:1 (−0.40; −0.54, −0.27)] were inversely associated with prevalent DM and HbA1c at follow‐up.

Discussion

A metabolomic signature in South Asians may help determine the unique aetiology of diabetes in this high‐risk ethnic group. Future work will externally validate our findings and determine the effects of modifiable risk factors for DM.
Island size affects wood decomposition by changing decomposer distribution
Authors: Donghao Wu , Sebastian Seibold , Zhen Ruan , Changlu Weng , Mingjian Yu
Published: December 2020

Island biogeography theory describes the relationship between island size, isolation and biodiversity, but it does not address the effects on ecosystem processes such as wood decomposition. Wood decomposition rates can be expected to increase with decomposer diversity, which increases with island size and decreases with increasing island isolation. However, island size and isolation effects on wood decomposition may also act by impacting substrate composition, forest composition and biotic interactions among decomposers. In this study, branch‐wood decomposition rates of three locally dominant tree species deployed at 154 plots on 15 islands in Thousand Island Lake, China, were measured over one year. The results showed that decomposition rates in coarse‐mesh bags where both termites and fungi were allowed access increased with island size for the two tree species preferred by the termites. By contrast, decomposition rates in fine‐mesh bags which only fungi could access decreased with island size for the two tree species preferred by fungi. The positive effects of island size on termite feeding activity were mediated by a higher deadwood diversity, a more diverse forest composition and a higher soil moisture content, with forest composition shaping soil moisture. For fungal diversity, the negative effects of island size were attributable to a higher soil moisture content and termite feeding activity. Island isolation decreased fungal diversity but increased wood decomposition rates. Our study indicates that island size affects wood decomposition by altering the distribution of decomposers and their relative contributions to wood decomposition. Size–decomposition relationship further depends on the affinity between substrates and decomposer taxa. In general, our results show that ecosystem processes may be affected by island size and isolation, but the patterns are more complex than expected from the island biogeography theory. This discrepancy is largely due to the different responses and trade‐offs among different functional groups.
The late consolidation of an aversive memory is promoted by VTA dopamine release in the dorsal hippocampus
Authors: Kramar Cecilia P. , Castillo‐Díaz Fernando , Gigante Eduardo D. , Medina Jorge H. , Barbano M. Flavia
Published: December 2020

The hippocampus has been implicated in the processing and storage of aversive memories but the precise mechanisms by which these memories persist in time remain elusive. We have demonstrated that dopaminergic neurotransmission in the dorsal hippocampus regulates the long‐term storage of both appetitive and aversive memories at a critical time point known as “late consolidation” (12 hr after the learning experience). This modulation appears to have opposite effects depending on the valence of the stimuli, with hippocampal dopamine release peaking immediately and 13–17 hr after a rewarding experience. Here, we determined the release pattern of hippocampal dopamine following an aversive experience, in order to better understand this opposite modulation process. We observed significant increases in dopamine levels at several times (6–8, 11–12, and 15 hr) after subjecting rats to a conditioned place aversion (CPA) task with the aversive agent lithium chloride (LiCl). Early pharmacological blockade of hippocampal DA receptors impaired CPA memory consolidation. In addition and consistent with previous findings showing that late post‐training infusions of dopaminergic agents into the hippocampus modulate the long‐term storage of aversive memories, we found that the photostimulation of dopaminergic VTA fibers in the dorsal hippocampus 11–12 hr after CPA training was enough to transform a short‐lasting long‐term memory into a long‐lasting one. The fact that the persistence of an aversive memory can still be affected several hours after the learning experience opens new avenues to develop behavioral and pharmacological strategies for the treatment of a variety of mental disorders.
MTOR promotes basal cell carcinoma growth through atypical PKC
Authors: Chow Rachel Y. , Levee Taylor M. , Kaur Gurleen , Cedeno Daniel P. , Doan Linda T. , Atwood Scott X.
Published: December 2020

Advanced basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) are driven by the Hedgehog (HH) pathway and often possess inherent resistance to SMO inhibitors. Identifying and targeting pathways that bypass SMO could provide alternative treatments for patients with advanced or metastatic BCC. Here, we use a combination of RNA‐sequencing analysis of advanced human BCC tumor–normal pairs and immunostaining of human and mouse BCC samples to identify an MTOR expression signature in BCC. Pharmacological inhibition of MTOR activity in BCC cells significantly reduces cell proliferation without affecting HH signalling. Similarly, treatment of the Ptch1 fl/fl; Gli1‐CreERT2 mouse BCC tumor model with everolimus reduces tumor growth. aPKC, a downstream target of MTOR, shows reduced activity, suggesting that MTOR promotes tumor growth by activating aPKC and demonstrating that suppressing MTOR could be a promising target for BCC patients.
The disproportionate impact of COVID‐19 on women relative to men: A conservation of resources perspective
Authors: Peck Jessica A.
Published: December 2020

COVID‐19 has had a disproportionate impact on women relative to men. While more men than women are dying of COVID‐19 (Centers for Disease Control, 2020a), there is a general consensus that the lasting economic and health effects will negatively affect women as opposed to men (Azcona et al, 2020). In this article, I examine the effects of COVID‐19 on women from a Conservation of Resources Theory (Hobfoll, 1989) perspective. Herein, I show that women were already in a resource loss position relative to men prior to COVID‐19 by examining various types of object, personal characteristic, condition, and energy resources. Then, I draw from multiple datasets and reports to show that COVID‐19 has put women in an even greater resource loss position relative to men and caution against the resource loss spiral that is occurring as a result, placing progress towards gender equality in jeopardy for years to come.
Rethinking research funding in pandemic times
Authors: Kalpazidou Schmidt Evanthia
Published: December 2020

Experiences from individualized gender equality funding programs, as the ones used in Denmark, demonstrate that one‐off policy interventions, although a small step in the right direction, cannot stand alone in the fight against gender imbalances in academia. Closing the gender gap is a complex, multi‐level undertaking that needs constant rethinking of policies and the dedication of adequate financial resources. The need of rethinking policy is in particular urgent during Covid‐19, which has further amplified imbalances due to a drop in the productivity of women researchers. Funding bodies should therefore reconsider traditional approaches heavily rewarding publications in the distribution of research funds. They ought to respond to the gendered impact of the pandemic by engaging institutions in structural and cultural change, setting up requirements for institutions to have achieved a certain level of gender equality outcomes, and thus link institutional progress to research funding.
Ethical conflict during COVID‐19 pandemic: the case of Spanish and Italian intensive care units
Authors: Falcó‐Pegueroles Anna , Zuriguel‐Pérez Esperanza , Via‐Clavero Gemma , Bosch‐Alcaraz Alejandro , Bonetti Loris
Published: December 2020

Aim

To identify factors underlying ethical conflict occurring during the current COVID‐19 pandemic in the critical care setting.

Background

During the first wave of the COVID‐19 outbreak, Spanish and Italian intensive care units were overwhelmed by the demand for admissions. This fact revealed a crucial problem of shortage of health resources and rendered that decision‐making was highly complex.

Sources of evidence

Applying a nominal group technique this manuscript identifies a series of factors that may have played a role in the emergence of the ethical conflicts in critical care units during the COVID‐19 pandemic, considering ethical principles and responsibilities included in the International Council of Nurses Code of Ethics. The five factors identified were the availability of resources; the protection of healthcare workers; the circumstances surrounding decision‐making, end‐of‐life care, and communication.

Discussion

The impact of COVID‐19 on health care will be long‐lasting and nurses are playing a central role in overcoming this crisis. Identifying these five factors and the conflicts that have arisen during the COVID‐19 pandemic can help to guide future policies and research.

Conclusions

Understanding these five factors and recognizing the conflicts, they may create can help to focus our efforts on minimizing the impact of the ethical consequences of a crisis of this magnitude and on developing new plans and guidelines for future pandemics.

Implications for nursing practice and policy

Learning more about these factors can help nurses, other health professionals, and policymakers to focus their efforts on minimizing the impact of the ethical consequences of a crisis of this scale. This will enable changes in organizational policies, improvement in clinical competencies, and development of the scope of practice.
Development of nurse practitioner metaspecialty clinical practice standards: A national sequential mixed methods study
Authors: Gardner Anne , Helms Christopher , Gardner Glenn , Coyer Fiona , Gosby Helen
Published: December 2020

Aim

To achieve profession‐wide consensus on clinical practice standards for six broad Australian nurse practitioner specialty areas (termed metaspecialties).

Design

Sequential mixed methods with initial interpretive study (Interpretive Phase) followed by modified three‐round Delphi study (Survey Phase).

Methods

Participants from all Australian jurisdictions were recruited. Main eligibility criterion was current endorsement as a nurse practitioner for 12 or more months. Interpretive Phase comprised in‐depth interviews of purposeful sample of nurse practitioners to identify clinical care activities and practice processes. Six sets of draft clinical practice standards relevant to six previously identified metaspecialties were developed. Outcome informed Round 1 of Survey Phase (six nested web‐based Delphi surveys), with draft standards reviewed profession‐wide. Responses comprised scoring using Likert scales to calculate content validity indexes for individual standards with qualitative responses supporting decision‐making. For Rounds 2 and 3, participants rated relevancy of original or revised standards after consideration of individual and group feedback. The study was conducted 2014–2017.

Results

Interpretive Phase: Analysis of interview data with 16 nurse practitioners provided 75 draft standards. Survey Phase: 221 nurse practitioners completed Round 1 (20% of then eligible Australian nurse practitioners). Weighted respondent retention was 92%. Seventy‐three standards were validated, with final content validity indices of 92–100%. Scale‐level indices were 98%, strongly validating metaspecialty taxonomy.

Conclusion

A research‐derived, professionally endorsed suite of nurse practitioner clinical practice standards was developed. This provides a broad clinical learning structure with metaspecialties guiding nurse practitioner student clinical education.

Impact

The clinical practice standards and metaspecialty taxonomy strengthen nurse practitioner clinical education and professional development nationally and internationally. These novel study methods and findings are applicable to advanced specialty roles in other health professions.
Breathing exercises in people with COPD: A realist review
Authors: Li Jing , Liu Wei , Ding Xinxin , Wang Wenjing , Li Kun
Published: December 2020

Aims

To determine the theoretical framework that explains the mechanisms of the success of breathing exercise interventions in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Design

A realist review.

Data sources

Seven bibliographic databases and the grey literature were searched from 2015–January 2020 to identify the studies of breathing exercises.

Review Methods

The evaluation criteria of realist review and the mixed method appraisal tool were both used to evaluate the included studies. We extracted and integrated the context–mechanism–outcome strings of each study to form the theoretical framework.

Results

Six theoretical mechanisms that affected the success of the intervention were articulated: Wide acceptance of training methods, Integration of the intervention with life, Self‐management of the participants, Confidence in controlling symptoms, Participation and support of practitioners, Motivation for intervention. Conversely, the other two mechanisms including the gap between implementation and training and the duration of the intervention, had negative impacts on the implementation of breathing exercises.

Conclusion

This review updates and expands the previous literature review on the impact of breathing exercises in people and provides researchers and clinical practitioners with theoretical mechanisms to ensure that the interventions achieve expected effects.

Impact

When formulating or selecting breathing exercise interventions, our theoretical framework will guide researchers and clinical practitioners to ensure that the intervention will have practical effects.
Departing from an ideal: An asymmetric, bimodal and non‐Equatorial latitudinal gradient of marine diversity in Western Atlantic burrowing shrimps (Decapoda: Axiidea and Gebiidea)
Authors: Hernáez Patricio , Fenberg Phillip B. , Rivadeneira Marcelo M.
Published: December 2020

Aim

Despite the generality of the latitudinal gradient of species diversity (LDG) phenomenon, there is growing evidence showing deviations from an idealized pattern, that is, a single peak of species richness symmetrically centred in the Equator, but the underlying causes remain little studied. We here evaluate the existence of departures from the idealized LDG in a group of marine crustaceans and the explanatory role of environmental variables.

Location

Coastal shelf (<200 m depth) along the Western Atlantic coast (46°N–47°S).

Taxon

Burrowing shrimps (Decapoda: Axiidea and Gebiidea).

Methods

We assessed the shape of the LDG in 100 burrowing shrimp species using the reported latitudinal ranges of distribution. Species richness was calculated in one‐degree latitude bands using a range‐through approach. The shape of the LDG was statistically evaluated in terms of latitudinal symmetry, number of modes and location. We evaluated the importance of 10 environmental variables (proxies of different hypothesis categories) predicting the LDG using a random forest model.

Results

Burrowing shrimps exhibit an increase in diversity towards the tropics, but departures to the idealized LDG were evident. The LDG is asymmetric between hemispheres and bimodal (two peaks within the tropics), and this trend cannot be explained in terms of sampling artifacts. A random forest model explains 92% of species richness, but the only significant variables were bottom seawater temperature, bottom seawater salinity, bottom seawater temperature range, and tidal range. These predictors were nonlinearly related to species richness, whereas only bottom seawater temperature and bottom seawater salinity showed a significant phylogenetic signal.

Main conclusions

The LDG of burrowing shrimps is driven by ecophysiological restrictions of species, reflecting the role of evolutionary (i.e. ‘time for species accumulation’ and/or ‘diversification dynamics’) and ecological processes (i.e. ‘ecological limits’). Departures from the idealized LDG could be explained by the nonlinear responses of species richness to environmental conditions, the spatial structure of these environmental conditions, and a varying degree of phylogenetic conservatism of key ecophysiological constraints.
Astragaloside IV attenuates inflammatory response mediated by NLRP‐3/calpain‐1 is involved in the development of pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Sun Yang , Lu Meili , Sun Tairan , Wang Hongxin
Published: December 2020

Inflammation eventually leads to pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Astragaloside IV(AS‐IV) has a protective effect on pulmonary hypertension, but the specific protective mechanism has been unclear until now. Therefore, in this study, our aim was to investigate the mechanisms underlying the effects of AS‐IV on PAH. In vivo, male Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats were injected intraperitoneally with monocrotaline (MCT, 60 mg/kg) and treated with AS‐IV (40 mg/kg, 80 mg/kg), MCC950 and MDL‐28170. In vitro, human pulmonary artery endothelial cells (HPAECs) were treated with monocrotaline pyrrole (MCTP, 60 μg/mL). The protein expression levels of NLRP‐3, caspase‐1, ASC, IL‐18, IL‐1β and calpain‐1 were measured in vivo and/or in vitro. The results showed that AS‐IV decreased the protein expression levels of NLRP‐3, caspase‐1, ASC, IL‐18, IL‐1β and calpain‐1 in vivo and/or vitro. In conclusion, in this study the results suggested that AS‐IV could inhibit monocrotaline‐induced pulmonary arterial hypertension via the NLRP‐3/calpain‐1 pathway.
Intervention on gut microbiota may change the strategy for management of colorectal cancer
Authors: Taghinezhad‐S Sedigheh , Mohseni Amir Hossein , Fu Xiangsheng
Published: December 2020

Dysbiosis in the gut microbiota composition due to environmental or genetic variations can disrupt the immune system and may promote several diseases such as colorectal cancer (CRC). Gut microbiota can alter the toxicity and efficiency of an extensive range of CRC treatment methods, especially surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. The recent scientific evidence suggested that gut microbiota modulation exhibits an essential positive influence on inhibition and treatment of CRC. The literature survey revealed that modulating the gut microbiota composition by probiotics, prebiotics, and diets protects CRC patients from treatment‐associated adverse effects. This review summarizes the recent advancements in the association between interventions on gut microbiota and CRC to provide innovative strategies for enhancing the safety and efficiency of CRC therapy.
Benefiting others and self: Production of vitamins in plants
Authors: Li Yufei , Yang Chenkun , Ahmad Hasan , Maher Mohamed , Fang Chuanying , Luo Jie
Published: December 2020

Vitamins maintain growth and development in humans, animals, and plants. Because plants serve as essential producers of vitamins, increasing the vitamin contents in plants has become a goal of crop breeding worldwide. Here, we begin with a summary of the functions of vitamins. We then review the achievements to date in elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying how vitamins are synthesized, transported, and regulated in plants. We also stress the exploration of variation in vitamins by the use of forward genetic approaches, such as quantitative trait locus mapping and genome‐wide association studies. Overall, we conclude that exploring the diversity of vitamins could provide new insights into plant metabolism and crop breeding.
Establishment of a patient‐derived xenograft model and cell line of malignant transformation of mature cystic teratoma of the ovary
Authors: Tamauchi Satoshi , Suzuki Shiro , Xuboya Chang , Yoshihara Masato , Yoshida Kosuke , Ikeda Yoshiki , Yoshikawa Nobuhisa , Kajiyama Hiroaki , Kikkawa Fumitaka
Published: December 2020

Aim

Malignant transformation of mature cystic teratoma (MTMCT) of the ovary is a rare gynecological malignancy and commonly arises in women older than 50 years of age. The most common histological type of MTMCT is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and the prognosis is extremely poor. Patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) models are promising animal models for preclinical drug screening. Here, we report the generation of a new PDX model of MTMCT, and a new cell line established from the tumors of PDX model animals.

Methods

Tumor tissue was obtained from a 32‐year‐old patient with MTMCT. To generate PDX, NSG (NOD.Cg‐PrkdcscidIl2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ) mice, a strain of super‐immunodeficient mice, were used. Tumor‐bearing mice were sacrificed, followed by the collection of these tumors and re‐transplantation into new NSG mice (in vivo passage). Tumor samples were also cultured in vitro. Adherent cells were continuously cultured and passaged, a cell line was established.

Results

In the primary PDX mouse, tumor engraftment was confirmed 30 days after tumor implantation. After three times in vivo passage, we confirmed that the cryopreserved tumors could be engrafted even when transplanted into BALB/c nude mice. Using the tumor tissue at the time of the first in vivo passage, a new cell line NOSCC1 was established. PDX tumors and cell‐line derived xenograft tumors exhibited similar morphology of SCC.

Conclusion

We established a new PDX model of MTMCT and a new cell line of it, which may be important tools for the development of new therapies and the elucidation of the carcinogenic mechanisms of MTMCT.
Comparison of Wear Resistance of Prefabricated Composite Veneers Versus Ceramic and Enamel
Authors: Dederichs Marco , Fahmy Mina D. , An Hongseok , Guentsch Arndt , Viebranz Stephanie , Kuepper Harald
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To measure surface roughness before and after wear‐tests of two different prefabricated composite veneers and compare them to ceramic veneers and human dental enamel.

Materials and Methods

Roughness (Ra‐values) of two prefabricated composite veneers (Visalys Veneer Chairside (VIS) and Componeer (COM)) were compared to lithium disilicate Veneers (e.max CAD) and dental enamel (DENT) in vitro. In total n = 45 specimens per material and enamel samples were used for wear‐tests. Wear‐out tests were conducted by abrasion tests with a toothbrush simulator (22,000 strokes/ 100 g load; approximately equal to two years of cleansing) and erosion tests were carried out using citric acid (pH 1.57). Ra‐ and Sa‐values were detected by white light interferometer before and after wear‐tests. Data were analyzed with ANOVA followed by Games‐Howell post hoc test and t‐test (α = 0.05).

Results

At baseline the lowest Ra‐ and Sa‐values were found in VIS (Ra: 0.01 µm; Sa: 0.04 µm) while DENT revealed significantly higher surface roughness (Ra: 0.11 µm, p < 0.05; Sa: 0.30, p = 0.186). COM had significantly higher Ra‐values (Ra: 0.10 µm; Sa: 0.22 µm) after abrasion, while e.max CAD was most resistant to the treatments (Ra: 0.01 µm, p < 0.05; Sa: 0.05 µm, p < 0.05). Compared to DENT all veneers were significantly less affected by citric acid (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Prefabricated composite veneers have demonstrated less wear after abrasion and erosion tests compared to DENT, nevertheless, they revealed more wear compared to e.max CAD.
Integrative taxonomy recognized a new cryptic species within Stipa grandis from Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Nie Bao , Jiao Bo‐Han , Ren Li‐Fei , Gudkova Polina D. , Chen Wen‐Li , Zhang Wen‐Hao
Published: December 2020

Stipa shanxiensis, a cryptic species within Stipa grandis that originated from central and western China, is described based on morphological, genomic, and ecological data from field and common garden experiments. Stipa shanxiensis morphologically resembles S. grandis, although phylogenetically it is closely related to the less morphologically similar Stipa baicalensis and Stipa krylovii. Of the eight significant morphological differences between S. shanxiensis and S. grandis, the two, cauline ligules longer than 2 cm with a filiform apex, and hairs shorter than 0.2 mm on the adaxial surface of the cauline uppermost leaves can be used to distinguish the species. Results from a common garden experiment verified that the two diagnostic characteristics were relatively stable and less morphologically plastic in response to environmental variation. Furthermore, a significant ecological divergence was found between S. shanxiensis and S. grandis, such that the former preferred warmer and more humid climates, and their predicted distribution was generally separated. Taken together, our results highlight that the integrative taxonomic approach was valuable for recognizing a new cryptic species in Stipa. In particular, we find that common garden experiments involving the effects of growth stage and characteristic position helped to morphologically diagnose cryptic species. These findings may also facilitate our understandings of ecological adaption and phenotypic plasticity in response to environmental change.
Breed predispositions, clinical findings, and prognostic factors for death in dogs with nonregenerative immune‐mediated anemia
Authors: Woolhead Vanessa L. , Szladovits Balazs , Chan Antonia , Swann James W. , Glanemann Barbara
Published: December 2020

Background

Breed predispositions, survival, and prognostic factors have not been evaluated in dogs with nonregenerative immune‐mediated anemia (nrIMA).

Hypothesis/Objectives

To describe clinicopathologic variables, evaluate their associations with survival, and determine breed predispositions for dogs with nrIMA.

Animals

Fifty‐nine client‐owned dogs with nrIMA.

Methods

Referral hospital records were reviewed retrospectively for dogs with primary nrIMA (PCV ≤30%, corrected reticulocyte percentage (CR%) ≤1.0, bone marrow sampling with evidence of immune‐mediated destruction, and underlying causes excluded). Breed predispositions were evaluated by calculation of odds ratios in a case control study; prognostic factors by logistic regression in a cohort study.

Results

Fifty‐nine dogs with nrIMA had a median PCV of 12% (interquartile range [IQR]: 10%‐17%) and CR% 0.1 (0%‐0.2%). At least ≥1 ACVIM IMHA diagnostic criteria were met by 35 dogs (59%). Whippets, Lurchers, and miniature Dachshunds were predisposed to nrIMA. Median survival time was 277 days (IQR: 37‐1925), with 3‐ and 12‐month survival rates 61% and 43%, respectively. Erythroid regeneration and remission were achieved by 88% and 62% of dogs, respectively. Corrected reticulocyte percentage >0.2 was associated with improved survival.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Although there is overlap of clinical features between dogs with IMHA and nrIMA, the prognosis for those with nrIMA depends predominantly on the severity of reticulocytopenia.
Short and middle‐term outcomes of vaginally assisted laparoscopic sacropolpopexy
Authors: Aydın Serdar , Ateş Seda , Gökmen Karasu Ayşe Filiz , Arıoğlu Çağrı
Published: December 2020

Objective

Vaginally assisted laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (VALS), which is a combined surgical approach where a vaginal hysterectomy is initially performed, followed by transvaginal placement of synthetic mesh and laparoscopic suspension, can be an alternative to overcome the dissection, suturing limitations of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy. The aim of this study was to compare the operative times and middle‐term anatomic outcomes of women with uterovaginal prolapse undergoing VALS with those of women undergoing abdominal sacrocolpopexy.

Methods

This is a prospective cohort study that evaluates operation times, anesthesia times, estimated blood loss, middle‐term outcomes, perioperative and postoperative complications. We compared the results of 47 women who had the VALS to that of 32 abdominal sacrocolpopexy (AS).

Results

The mean follow up was 22.4 months for AS group and 20.5 months for VALS group. The VALS group (median 1 day) had shorter hospitalization duration than the AS group (median 3 days). The mean operation time was significantly shorter in the VALS group (125.9 minutes) than the AS group (151.9 minutes) (P = .03). There was no significant difference in perioperative and postoperative complication rates. Objective failure rate (8.5% in VALS, 15.6% in AS), subjective failure rates (6.4% in VALS, 9.4% in AS), recurrence (2.1% in VALS, 9.4% in AS) and mesh exposition rates (2.1% in VALS, 9.4% in AS) were similar in both procedures.

Conclusions

VALS with shorter operative time and hospitalization than conventional AS is a promising modification minimally invasive technique for sacrocolpopexy especially for those inexperienced in laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy.
Effect of Photobiomodulation on Relapse in an Experimental Rapid Maxillary Expansion Model in Rat
Authors: Pirmoradian Maryam , Safiaghdam Hannaneh , Nokhbatolfoghahaei Hanieh , Ashnagar Sajjad , Fekrazad Reza
Published: December 2020

Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) is performed on transversely deficient maxilla. As all orthodontic treatments, retention is important in maintaining therapeutic outcomes. Fixed /removable retainers are used post‐RME causing hygiene and compliance problems. Given photobiomodulation’s positive effects on the quantity and quality of bone regeneration, its effect on post‐RME relapse was studied. Thirty Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into group R, non‐irradiated RME‐treated (n = 12), group P, irradiated RME‐treated (n = 12) and group C, non‐RME non‐irradiated (n = 6). A 1.5 mm metal ring inserted between maxillary incisors at days 0 and 15 was expanded until 1.5 mm space was obtained at day 30. In group P, Ga‐Al‐As diode laser (810 nm, 100 mW, 4J/cm2, 30 secs) was applied on days 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 as predictor variable. The relapse was measured as the space lost between incisors for 30 days after appliance removal (primary outcome variable) and compared with t‐test. In week 2, space loss in group P was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than all other groups. The relapse during weeks 2 and 3 was significantly lower in group P than group R. However, no significant difference in relapse amount was found between groups during first and fourth week. There was a significant difference (P < 0.05) between groups in relapse rates (secondary outcome variable) but not in total relapse after 4 weeks. Photobiomodulation proved beneficial in resisting relapse in our study, and it is suggested to be continued until the end of expansion.
The Influence ofEliteNetworks on Green Policy Making
Authors: Caliskan Cantay
Published: December 2020

This article analyzes the relationship between the policy networks and the success of renewable energy and emission reduction policies. Arguing that strong connections between typologically different groups of elites are essential for good policies, the analysis looks at the Twitter community structure of the ministers in 34 countries. The results of the network study indicate that the success of renewable energy and CO2emission reduction policy implementation is strongly related to the community structure in social networks of ministers. Looser network structures within policy communities and an abundance of relatively stronger connections between them are associated with higher renewable energy consumption and also lower CO2levels, thus possibly with better policies. A case study on seven Nordic and Northern European countries complements and reinforces the theoretical expectations about deliberative policy making.

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Finite Sample Change Point Inference and Identification for High-Dimensional Mean Vectors
Authors: Yu Mengjia , Chen Xiaohui
Published: December 2020

Cumulative sum (CUSUM) statistics are widely used in the change point inference and identification. For the problem of testing for existence of a change point in an independent sample generated from the mean-shift model, we introduce a Gaussian multiplier bootstrap to calibrate critical values of the CUSUM test statistics in high dimensions. The proposed bootstrap CUSUM test is fully data dependent and it has strong theoretical guarantees under arbitrary dependence structures and mild moment conditions. Specifically, we show that with a boundary removal parameter the bootstrap CUSUM test enjoys the uniform validity in size under the null and it achieves the minimax separation rate under the sparse alternatives when the dimension p can be larger than the sample size n.

Once a change point is detected, we estimate the change point location by maximising the ℓ∞-norm of the generalised CUSUM statistics at two different weighting scales corresponding to covariance stationary and non-stationary CUSUM statistics. For both estimators, we derive their rates of convergence and show that dimension impacts the rates only through logarithmic factors, which implies that consistency of the CUSUM estimators is possible when p is much larger than n. In the presence of multiple change points, we propose a principled bootstrap-assisted binary segmentation (BABS) algorithm to dynamically adjust the change point detection rule and recursively estimate their locations. We derive its rate of convergence under suitable signal separation and strength conditions.

The results derived in this paper are non-asymptotic and we provide extensive simulation studies to assess the finite sample performance. The empirical evidence shows an encouraging agreement with our theoretical results.
“What do we fear the most?”: Exploring fears and concerns of patients, family members and dyads in end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Frontini Roberta , Sousa Helena , Ribeiro Óscar , Figueiredo Daniela
Published: December 2020

Introduction

End‐stage renal disease (ESRD) and the need for haemodialysis (HD) treatment are increasing. The course of the disease and all the life readjustments needed may generate a multitude of fears in patients and families.

Aim

This study aimed to explore the main fears and concerns of patients with ESRD undergoing HD and their family members.

Study design.

A qualitative study was performed.

Methods

Individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted with three groups: 20 patients, 14 family caregivers and 15 patient–family dyads. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and submitted to thematic analysis.

Findings.

Five major themes emerged: (i) fear of death (fear of earlier death, fear of a sudden death and fear of dying); (ii) fear of problems during HD (fears related to the vascular access, and fear of complications during HD); (iii) concerns related to the disease (fear of loss of autonomy, fears of getting worse, fears related to renal transplantation and concerns about dietary restrictions); (iv) fear about the future; and (v) absence of fears and concerns.

Discussion

Patients with ESRD undergoing HD and their family members expressed different fears related to the disease and the treatments required. Renal care staff must acknowledge and understand such concerns and help patients and families to cope. This is important to improving people's quality of life (QoL), the dialogue between health professionals, patients, and family members, and the care offered by the dialysis care settings. Moreover, this study highlights the impact this disease has at a familial level. Future family‐based interventions should acknowledge possible fears and concerns of this population and integrate them into their programs.
Neoplastic melanocytic pleural effusion in a Portuguese water dog
Authors: Corda Erica , Vilar Saavedra Paulo , Berghoff Nora , Smedley Rebecca C. , Thomas Jennifer S.
Published: December 2020

A 9‐year‐old castrated male Portuguese water dog was presented following incomplete excision of a malignant melanoma at the left lip commissure by the referring veterinarian. Physical examination was otherwise unremarkable. The patient was staged using thoracic radiographs, abdominal ultrasound, and fine‐needle aspirates of the mandibular lymph nodes and spleen. Given the absence of any definitive evidence of metastasis, the malignant melanoma was surgically completely removed. The dog then received four melanoma vaccine doses as an adjuvant therapy and remained clinically healthy for more than 3 months after the last immunization. However, 232 days after the initial discovery of the lip mass, the dog was euthanized due to deterioration and a poor prognosis based on the presence of lung metastases and neoplastic melanocytic pleural effusion. The latter has been rarely reported in dogs, despite the high prevalence of oral malignant melanomas and the tendency of these tumors to metastasize to the lungs.