bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative transcriptome analysis of Ethiopian indigenous chickens from low and high altitudes under heat stress condition reveals differential immune response
Authors: Park W. , Srikanth K. , Lim D. , Park M. , Hur T. , Kemp S. , Dessie T. , Kim M. S. , Lee S.‐R. , te Pas M. F. W. , Kim J.‐M. , Park J.‐E.
Published: November 2018

Ethiopia is an ecologically diverse country; the low altitude regions are hot and humid whereas the high altitude regions are cooler. In this study we analyzed the transcriptome response of high altitude (Addis Ababa) and low altitude (Awash) chickens to heat stress conditions that are prevalent in the low altitude regions. The chickens were free ranged for 20 h in an enclosure in Awash, and then the heart, breast muscle and spleen tissues were collected at 6:00 am, 12:00 noon and 6:00 pm to follow a daily circadian cycle. Through RNA‐sequencing analysis, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that were significant (q < 0.05). These DEGs were subjected to protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and gene co‐expression network (GCN) analyses to understand their role. KEGG pathway analysis and Gene Ontology analysis of all the identified DEGs and the genes identified from the PPI network and GCN analyses revealed that several immune‐related pathways, such as proteasome, focal adhesion, influenza A, the ErbB signaling pathway and glycerophospholipid metabolism, were enriched in response to heat stress. These results suggest that the high altitude chickens were under heat stress and might be immunologically susceptible. Our findings will help in developing a genetic approach to mitigate production loss due to heat stress.
Ultrastructure features of the surface of the gills and the lower pharyngeal jaw of the Tilapia Zilli, redbelly tilapia (Coptodon Zillii, Gervais, 1848)
Authors: Abumandour Mohamed M. A.
Published: November 2018

The present investigation was designed to describe the surface ultrastructure of the gill system of tilapia Zilli. The gill system is formed from four gill arches and each gill arch carries a row of gill filaments on its convex border and two rows of the gill rakers on its concave border. The quadrilateral interbranchial septum has elevated part at the level of the third gill arch. By SEM observations, the gill arch was divided into three regions: rostral, middle and caudal region. The caudal region contained two characteristic structures: oval leaf‐like structure and rounded‐shaped structure. Each oval leaf‐like structure carried two lateral rows of the triangular pointed spines separated by a median groove. All surfaces of gill arches, rakers and filaments were covered with a mosaic of the polygonal pavement cells, in addition to the opening of chloride cells and mucous cells. The gill arch and gill raker had only one appearance of taste buds named type I. Meanwhile, the filaments contained two types of different appearance of the taste buds named: type I and type II. Type I was the main common and similar to that present in gill arch and raker and characterized by its blunt end, while type II had hair‐like structures that projected from the volcano‐shaped depression. The gill rakers were formed from central axis surrounded by two lateral lobulated regions which carry pointed spines, taste buds and the opening of chloride cells. The surface of triangular lower pharyngeal jaw carries numerous teeth‐like papillae which originated from the socket‐like depression.
In Vitro Study on the Dynamics of Blood Flow Impelled by an Alternating Current Magnetohydrodynamic Blood Pump
Authors: Wu Xiangyang , Tao Pengxian , Zhu Jie , Wu Chongyang , Wei Yaling , Peng Yan , Gao Bingren
Published: November 2018

Artificial hearts are effective devices to treat heart failure in clinical practice and can be divided into two categories: artificial hearts and ventricular assist devices. The goal of this work was to investigate the fluidity and biological changes of in vitro sheep blood using a novel alternating current (AC) magnetohydrodynamic blood pump (central magnetic intensity: 0.9 T, alternating current frequency of the electric motor: 0–80 Hz). Blood samples were collected from five sheep and were divided into two groups: the control group (no exposure to an external magnetic field) and the exposed group (3 h of exposure to an alternating magnetic field). The blood cell counts, changes in blood viscosity, and ultrastructural changes of the blood cells under transmission electron microscopy were investigated. This study demonstrated several findings: (i) Continuous sheep blood flow can be achieved; (ii) The blood cell counts remained unchanged after 3 h of exposure to an alternating magnetic field; (iii) Compared with the control group, the high‐ and low‐shear viscosities of the whole blood from the sheep significantly decreased after 3 h of exposure to an alternating magnetic field (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively). Plasma viscosity was significantly reduced after exposure to high‐intensity alternating magnetic fields (P < 0.001); (iv) The cytoplasm of blood cells (especially erythrocytes) became lighter in color in the exposure group compared to the control group, and “beads‐on‐string” aggregations of black particles appeared. This work provides detailed and reliable scientific research data for the development of this type of blood pump, which may serve as a transition to the clinical artificial heart.
Differences between unipolar mania and bipolar‐I disorder: Evidence from nine epidemiological studies
Authors: Angst Jules , Rössler Wulf , Ajdacic‐Gross Vladeta , Angst Felix , Wittchen Hans Ulrich , Lieb Rosalind , Beesdo‐Baum Katja , Asselmann Eva , Merikangas Kathleen R , Cui Lihong , Andrade Laura H , Viana Maria C , Lamers Femke , Penninx Brenda WJH , de Azevedo Cardoso Taiane , Jansen Karen , Dias de Mattos Souza Luciano , Azevedo da Silva Ricardo , Kapczinski Flavio , Grobler Christoffel , Gholam‐Rezaee Mehdi , Preisig Martin , Vandeleur Caroline L
Published: November 2018

Objectives

Although clinical evidence suggests important differences between unipolar mania and bipolar‐I disorder (BP‐I), epidemiological data are limited. Combining data from nine population‐based studies, we compared subjects with mania (M) or mania with mild depression (Md) to those with BP‐I with both manic and depressive episodes with respect to demographic and clinical characteristics in order to highlight differences.

Methods

Participants were compared for gender, age, age at onset of mania, psychiatric comorbidity, temperament, and family history of mental disorders. Generalized linear mixed models with adjustment for sex and age as well as for each study source were applied. Analyses were performed for the pooled adult and adolescent samples, separately.

Results

Within the included cohorts, 109 adults and 195 adolescents were diagnosed with M/Md and 323 adults and 182 adolescents with BP‐I. In both adult and adolescent samples, there was a male preponderance in M/Md, whereas lifetime generalized anxiety and/panic disorders and suicide attempts were less common in M/Md than in BP‐I. Furthermore, adults with mania revealed bulimia/binge eating and drug use disorders less frequently than those with BP‐I.

Conclusions

The significant differences found in gender and comorbidity between mania and BP‐I suggest that unipolar mania, despite its low prevalence, should be established as a separate diagnosis both for clinical and research purposes. In clinical settings, the rarer occurrence of suicide attempts, anxiety, and drug use disorders among individuals with unipolar mania may facilitate successful treatment of the disorder and lead to a more favorable course than that of BP‐I disorder.
A family affair: Supporting children with chronic illnesses
Authors: Nabors Laura , Liddle Melissa , Graves Myia L. , Kamphaus Allison , Elkins JaLisa
Published: November 2018

Background

Children living with chronic illnesses may rely on family for social support during hospitalization. Understanding child and parent perspectives about the nature of the sibling and family relationships during hospitalization will provide information about these relationships during a stressful period.

Methods

English‐speaking children diagnosed with chronic illnesses, siblings, and parents participated. They were residing at a Ronald McDonald House. A qualitative study using interviews with children and parents was completed.

Results

Seventeen mothers, eight children with illnesses, and twelve siblings completed interviews. Children with illnesses benefitted from connections with parents. Mothers believed that siblings and the ill child benefitted from being in close contact. Siblings were worried about their brother or sister with an illness, and despite this, the family was coping well. Siblings helped with the medical regimen for a brother or sister with a chronic illness. Trying to help the family function in a routine or “normal” fashion was important to children with illnesses and siblings.

Conclusions

Family connection was critical for children with chronic illnesses during hospitalization. Findings highlighted the importance of sibling support as a factor promoting child and family resilience when a child is facing medical procedures.
Emerging infectious uveitis: Chikungunya, dengue, Zika and Ebola: A review
Authors: Oliver Genevieve F. , Carr Jillian M. , Smith Justine R.
Published: November 2018

Recently recognized forms of uveitis include intraocular inflammations that occur during or following one of several emerging infectious diseases: chikungunya fever, dengue, Zika virus disease and Ebola virus disease. Anterior, intermediate, posterior and pan‐uveitis have been described in individuals infected with chikungunya virus. Persons who contract dengue or Zika viruses also may develop different types of uveitis in the course of the infection: maculopathy is a common manifestation of dengue eye disease, and Zika eye disease may cause hypertensive anterior uveitis or mimic a white dot syndrome. Up to one‐third of Ebola survivors develop aggressive uveitis, which is frequently associated with vision loss and complicated by cataract. There are no specific anti‐viral drugs for these forms of uveitis, and thus treatment is largely supportive. In this article, we summarize the systemic infectious diseases and virology, and describe the clinical presentations, outcomes and management of emerging viral forms of uveitis.
Biomechanical changes in the cornea following cataract surgery: A prospective assessment with the Corneal Visualisation Scheimpflug Technology
Authors: Wallace Henry B. , Misra Stuti L. , Li Sunny S. , McKelvie James
Published: November 2018

Importance

Intraocular pressure (IOP) is often reduced following cataract surgery. Postoperative changes in corneal stiffness are likely to be at least partly responsible for any reduction in IOP measured with applanation tonometry.

Background

To determine the effect of cataract surgery and corneal incision size on corneal biomechanics.

Design

Prospective randomized trial.

Participants

One hundred prospectively enrolled patients qualifying for cataract surgery.

Methods

Participants were randomized to clear corneal incisions with a 2.20 or 2.85 mm keratome. Corneal Visualisation Scheimpflug Technology (Corvis‐ST) tonometry and dynamic corneal response measurements were obtained preoperatively, and 3 mo postoperatively. Multiple regression analysis was completed using R software.

Main Outcome Measures

Corvis‐ST biomechanical parameters.

Results

Ninety‐three eyes of 93 patients were included in the final analysis. Mean Corvis‐ST biomechanically corrected IOP decreased by 3.63 mmHg postoperatively (95% confidence interval = 2.97‐4.35, P ≤ 0.01), and central pachymetry increased by 6.96 μm (4.33‐9.59, P ≤ 0.01). Independent of IOP and pachymetry changes, mean (±SE) corneal first applanation stiffness parameter reduced by 9.761 ± 3.729 (P = 0.01) postoperatively. First applanation velocity increased by 0.007 ± 0.002 ms, second applanation velocity increased by 0.012 ± 0.004 ms (P ≤ 0.01), the first applanation deformation amplitude increased by 0.008 ± 0.002 mm (P ≤ 0.01) and the deflection amplitude at highest concavity increased by 0.030 ± 0.069 (P ≤ 0.01). There were no significant differences between different incision size groups.

Conclusions and Relevance

Corneal stiffness is reduced 3 mo following cataract surgery and is associated with falsely low IOP measurements. This finding may be important for glaucoma patients and in particular when assessing the effectivity of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery devices.
Synthesized glucocorticoid‐induced leucine zipper peptide inhibits photoreceptor apoptosis and protects retinal function in light‐induced retinal degeneration model
Authors: Gu Ruiping , Tang Wenyi , Lei Boya , Jiang Chen , Song Fang , Xu Gezhi
Published: November 2018

Background

This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective function of a synthesized glucocorticoid‐induced leucine zipper peptide (GILZ‐p) in a light‐induced retinal degeneration model.

Methods

The GILZ98‐134 peptide was synthesized and injected intravitreally into Sprague Dawley rats. Retinal injury was then induced in the rats by exposing their eyes to constant white light (5000 lux) for 24 h. The activation of retinal caspases‐9/3 and the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria to the cytosol were measured at 1, 3, 5 and 7 d after light injury. Photoreceptor apoptosis was evaluated with terminal‐deoxynucleotidyl‐transferase‐mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate‐biotin nick end labelling (TUNEL) staining at 3 d after injury. Haematoxylin and eosin staining and electroretinography were used to observe the changes in the retinal morphology and function, respectively, at 7 and 14 d after light injury.

Results

The intravitreally injected synthesized GILZ‐p successfully penetrated to the retina and significantly inhibited the activation of retinal caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 at 1, 3, 5 and 7 d after light injury, and reduced the number of TUNEL‐positive photoreceptors at 3 d after light injury. GILZ‐p pre‐treatment also alleviated cytochrome c release and rescued mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis after injury. Simultaneously, GILZ‐p pre‐treatment also mitigated the light‐induced thinning of the outer nuclear layer and the loss of retinal function at 7 and 14 d after light injury, respectively.

Conclusions

The synthesized GILZ‐p prevented light‐induced photoreceptor apoptosis and protected retinal function from degeneration, and is therefore a potential therapeutic option for degenerative retinal diseases.
Bi‐allelic recessive loss‐of‐function mutations in FIGLA cause premature ovarian insufficiency with short stature
Authors: Yuan Ping , He Zuyong , Sun Silong , Li Yu , Wang Wenjun , Liang Xinyu , Xie Xuefeng , Jiang Yiqi , Yang Dongzi
Published: November 2018

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a group of heterogeneous disorders characterized by decreased ovarian reserve and increased follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. It is rarely associated with short stature. FIGLA mutations with POI are identified with regard to heterozygosity; till date, only one affected family has been identified with homozygous mutations in FIGLA but without functional evaluation. Here, we described two POI patients from a consanguineous family from China. An 18‐year‐old girl and her sister presented with primary amenorrhea and increased FSH and luteinizing hormone levels, but the sister also presented with short stature and bone age delay. Whole‐genome sequencing analysis identified a recurrent homozygous mutation in the FIGLA gene, c.2 T > C (p.Met1Thr), in this family member with POI; this variant was segregated within the pedigree. This change was absent in 382 control subjects, and we did not detect any mutations in 39 other idiopathic POI patients. in vitro functional analysis indicates that the p.Met1Thr mutation does not affect the transcription of the FIGLA gene, but blocks the synthesis of the full‐length FIGLA protein. Our results support the notion that bi‐allelic recessive loss‐of‐function effects of FIGLA contribute to POI patients with short stature and expand the FIGLA‐related phenotypic spectrum.
Influence of restorative margins position on one‐stage laser‐microgrooved implants‐supported single screwed crowns: A clinical, biochemical, and microbiological analysis
Authors: Guarnieri Renzo , Di Nardo Dario , Gaimari Gianfranco , Miccoli Gabriele , Testarelli Luca
Published: November 2018

Aim

To clinically, biochemically, and microbiologically evaluate the influence of crown margins position on one‐stage laser‐microgrooved implants.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐one‐stage titanium implants with a laser‐microgrooved collar surface, supporting screwed, single crown restorations, were placed in 20 partially edentulous patients and evaluated. Clinical parameters included modified plaque index, modified gingival index, peri‐implant probing pocket depth, bleeding on probing, and distance between implant shoulder and mucosal margin. The parameters were recorded at baseline (crowns delivery) and at every 6‐month recall visit, until the end of the 3 years follow‐up period. At the same time intervals, radiographic marginal bone levels were assessed at the mesial and distal aspect of the implant sites. For biochemical analysis, the volume of the peri‐implant sulcus fluid, and its levels of interleukin‐1beta (IL‐1β), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and of tumor necrosis factor‐α, were utilized to evaluate the peri‐implant health conditions at the end of the 3‐year follow‐up period. At the same time, microbiological analysis, including the concentration of five putative periodontal pathogens (Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Treponema denticola, and Tannerella forsythensis), were assessed. The crown margins positions were classified into four groups (A = intracrevicular position >2 mm, B = intracrevicular position ≤2 mm/<1 mm, C = intracrevicular position ≤1 mm/<0 mm, and D = extracrevicular position), and the biochemical, and microbiological parameters were evaluated at 3 years.

Results

No statistical differences of clinical and biochemical parameters were found between the four groups. In group A, compared to groups B, C, and D, a statistically significant higher concentration of putative periodontal pathogens was found.

Conclusions

Results showed that the intracrevicular deeper position of the restoration margin does not influence the clinical and biochemical peri‐implant parameters. The deeper position of the crown margin is associated with a greater amount of putative periodontal pathogenic microflora colonization.
Potential risk factors for maxillary sinus membrane perforation and treatment outcome analysis
Authors: Marin Saša , Kirnbauer Barbara , Rugani Petra , Payer Michael , Jakse Norbert
Published: November 2018

Background

Most common complication of sinus floor elevation (SFE) is sinus membrane perforation (SMP).

Purpose

To investigate the correlation between SMP and potential risk factors and to evaluate SMP treatment outcomes.

Materials and Methods

This study included patients who had undergone a SFE at Division of Oral Surgery and Orthodontics, Medical University of Graz from 2013 to 2017. Analysis of patients' records and CBCT focused on patient‐related risk factors (sinus contours, thickness of membrane and lateral sinus wall, interfering septa, crossing vessels, former oroantral communication) and intervention‐related risk factors (surgical approach, sides, number of tooth units, and sites). The outcome of SMP treatment was analyzed in the recalls.

Results

In all, 121 patients underwent 137 SFE. There were 19 cases of SMP (13.9%). Two significant factors were identified: maxillary sinus contours (P = .001) and thickness of the sinus membrane (P = .005). The sinus membrane perforation rate was highest in narrow tapered sinus contours and when the sinus membrane was thinner than 1 mm. Among 19 cases with SMP, no complications were seen upon recall.

Conclusions

Maxillary sinus contours and sinus membrane thickness seem to be relevant factors for SMP. Sinus membrane perforations were successfully treated by coverage with collagen membrane.
The unmet need for better risk stratification of non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Sivaprasad S. , Pearce E.
Published: November 2018

Diabetic retinopathy is a common microvascular complication of diabetes and remains one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in working‐age people. Non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy is the earliest stage of diabetic retinopathy and is typically asymptomatic. Currently, the severity of diabetic retinopathy is assessed using semi‐quantitative grading systems based on the presence or absence of retinal lesions. These methods are well validated, but do not predict those at high risk of rapid progression to sight‐threatening diabetic retinopathy; therefore, new approaches for identifying these people are a current unmet need. We evaluated published data reporting the lesion characteristics associated with different progression profiles in people with non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Based on these findings, we propose that additional assessments of features of non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy lesions may help to stratify people based on the likelihood of rapid progression. In addition to the current classification, the following measurements should be considered: the shape and size of lesions; whether lesions are angiogenic in origin; the location of lesions, including predominantly peripheral lesions; and lesion turnover and dynamics. For lesions commonly seen in hypertensive retinopathy, a detailed assessment of potential concomitant diseases is also recommended. We believe that natural history studies of these changes will help characterize these non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy progression profiles and advance our understanding of the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy in order to individualize management of people with diabetic retinopathy.
Is metabolically healthy obesity a useful concept?
Authors: Beh S.
Published: November 2018

Obesity poses significant public health concerns, including Type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease and stroke. Although deleterious metabolic profiles typically accompany individuals with obesity, various epidemiological studies have identified a subset of patients with a favourable metabolic phenotype referred to as the metabolically healthy obese. Metabolically healthy obesity is a novel concept that stratifies obese individuals according to their respective metabolic status. It has important implications for healthcare policies, particularly the efficient allocation of resources in the targeted treatment of obesity and prevention of metabolic ill‐health. However, conflicting evidence in the literature regarding its risk profile questions its clinical relevance. In addition, the lack of a unified definition of metabolically healthy obesity and agreement on its progression further impede its utility as a stratification strategy. This review aims to describe current concepts of metabolically healthy obesity within the literature, evidence of this metabolic phenotype, the clinical implications of patient stratification and limitations of the concept.
A single preoperative blood test predicts postoperative sepsis and pneumonia after coronary bypass or open aneurysm surgery
Authors: van Koeverden Ian D. , den Ruijter Hester M. , Scholtes Vincent P. W. , G. E. H. Lam Marnix , Haitjema Saskia , Buijsrogge Marc P. , J. L. Suyker Willem , van Wijk Richard H. , de Groot Mark C. H. , van Herwaarden Joost A. , van Solinge Wouter W. , de Borst Gert J. , Pasterkamp Gerard , Hoefer Imo E.
Published: November 2018

Background

Major surgery comes with a high risk for postoperative inflammatory complications. Preoperative risk scores predict mortality risk but fail to identify patients at risk for complications following cardiovascular surgery. We therefore assessed the value of preoperative red cell distribution width (RDW) as a predictor for pneumonia and sepsis after cardiovascular surgery and studied the relation of RDW with hematopoietic tissue activity.

Methods

RDW is an easily accessible, yet seldomly used parameter from routine haematology measurements. RDW was extracted from the Utrecht Patient Orientated Database (UPOD) for preoperative measurements in patients undergoing open abdominal aortic anuerysm repair (AAA)(N = 136) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)(N = 2193). The cohorts were stratified in tertiles to assess effects over the different groups. Generalized Linear Models were used to determine associations between RDW and postoperative inflammatory complications. Hematopoietic tissue activity was scored using fluor‐18‐(18F)‐deoxyglucose positron emission tomography and associated with RDW using linear regression models.

Results

In total, 43(31.6%) and 73 patients (3.3%) suffered from inflammatory complications after AAA‐repair or CABG, respectively; the majority being pneumonia in both cohorts. Postoperative inflammatory outcome incidence increased from 19.6% in the lowest to 48.9% in the highest RDW tertile with a corresponding risk ratio (RR) of 2.35 ([95%CI:1.08‐5.14] P = 0.032) in AAA patients. In the CABG cohort, the incidence of postoperative inflammatory outcomes increased from 1.8% to 5.3% with an adjusted RR of 1.95 ([95%CI:1.02‐3.75] P = 0.044) for the highest RDW tertile compared with the lowest RDW tertile. FDG‐PET scans showed associations of RDW with tissue activity in the spleen (B = 0.517 [P = 0.001]) and the lumbar bone marrow (B = 0.480 [P = 0.004]).

Conclusion

Elevated RDW associates with increased risk for postoperative inflammatory complications and hematopoietic tissue activity. RDW likely reflects chronic low‐grade inflammation and should be considered to identify patients at risk for postoperative inflammatory complications following cardiovascular surgery.
Survival of Heterobasidion irregulare on red pine discs in cold temperatures
Authors: Myers Lindsey J. , Smith Denise R. , Stanosz Glen R.
Published: November 2018

Disease foci of the conifer root and butt decay pathogen Heterobasidion irregulare are typically initiated following germination of spores deposited on freshly cut stumps, followed by expansion by tree to tree spread through root contacts and grafts. Although most abundant in autumn, inoculum of H. irregulare is also available during some cold winter periods in northern portions of the eastern United States. In both laboratory and field experiments, fresh stem discs of red pine (Pinus resinosa) were inoculated with H. irregulare conidia to test the null hypothesis that the pathogen would not survive prolonged exposure to cold temperatures experienced during winters in those regions. After exposure to cold for various periods of time, discs were incubated and then observed for presence of the Spiniger state of the pathogen. In each of two laboratory trials, the fungus survived on red pine discs incubated at ≤−20°C for 90 days. The field experiment was conducted during each of two winters at two infested red pine plantations. Inoculated discs were deployed periodically beginning in early winter and retrieved after various periods of time until spring. The Spiniger state of the pathogen was frequently observed on discs after laboratory incubation, even after field exposure of up to 6 months, during which temperatures ≤−25°C were sometimes recorded. Whether viable due to growth from inoculum initially placed on the discs, or natural inoculum deposited on discs exposed in the infested plantations, winter temperatures did not eliminate survival of the pathogen on this natural substrate. The potential for survival on stump surfaces during sub‐freezing temperatures during which application of stump protectants in water is impractical should be considered in evaluating the potential risk from H. irregulare to economically and environmentally valuable conifer forests of northcentral and northeastern North America.
Immune system responses in Parkinson's disease: Early and dynamic
Authors: Tansey Malú G. , Romero‐Ramos Marina
Published: November 2018

The neuropathological hallmarks of Parkinson's disease (PD) are the degeneration and death of dopamine‐producing neurons in the ventral midbrain, the widespread intraneuronal aggregation of alpha‐synuclein (α) in Lewy bodies and neurites, neuroinflammation, and gliosis. Signs of microglia activation in thePDbrain postmortem as well as during disease development revealed by neuroimaging, implicate immune responses in the pathophysiology of the disease. Intensive research during the last two decades has advanced our understanding of the role of these responses in the disease process, yet many questions remain unanswered. A transformative finding in the field has been the confirmation thatin vivomicroglia are able to respond directly to pathological a‐syn aggregates but also to neuronal dysfunction due to intraneuronal a‐syn toxicity well in advance of neuronal death. In addition, clinical research and disease models have revealed the involvement of both the innate and adaptive immune systems. Indeed, the data suggest thatPDleads not only to a microglia response, but also to a cellular and humoral peripheral immune response. Together, these findings compel us to consider a more holistic view of the immunological processes associated with the disease. Central and peripheral immune responses aimed at maintaining neuronal health will ultimately have consequences on neuronal survival. We will review here the most significant findings that have contributed to the current understanding of the immune response inPD, which is proposed to occur early, involve peripheral and brain immune cells, evolve as neuronal dysfunction progresses, and is likely to influence disease progression.
Task‐dependent responses to muscle vibration during reaching
Authors: Keyser Johannes , Ramakers Rob E. F. S. , Medendorp W. Pieter , Selen Luc P. J.
Published: November 2018

Feedback corrections in reaching have been shown to be task‐dependent for proprioceptive, visual and vestibular perturbations, in line with predictions from optimal feedback control theory. Mechanical perturbations have been used to elicit proprioceptive errors, but have the drawback to actively alter the limb's trajectory, making it nontrivial to dissociate the subject's compensatory response from the perturbation itself. In contrast, muscle vibration provides an alternative tool to perturb the muscle afferents without changing the hands trajectory, inducing only changes in the estimated, but not the actual, limb position and velocity. Here, we investigate whether upper‐arm muscle vibration is sufficient to evoke task‐dependent feedback corrections during goal‐directed reaching to a narrow versus a wide target. Our main result is that for vibration of biceps and triceps, compensatory responses were down‐regulated for the wide compared to the narrow target. The earliest detectable difference between these target‐specific corrections is at about 100 ms, likely reflecting a task‐dependent feedback control policy rather than a voluntary response.
Seed‐dispersal networks are more specialized in the Neotropics than in the Afrotropics
Authors: Dugger Phillip J. , Blendinger Pedro G. , Böhning‐Gaese Katrin , Chama Lackson , Correia Marta , Dehling D. Matthias , Emer Carine , Farwig Nina , Fricke Evan C. , Galetti Mauro , García Daniel , Grass Ingo , Heleno Ruben , Jacomassa Fábio A. F. , Moraes Suelen , Moran Catherine , Muñoz Marcia C. , Neuschulz Eike Lena , Nowak Larissa , Piratelli Augusto , Pizo Marco A. , Quitián Marta , Rogers Haldre S. , Ruggera Román A. , Saavedra Francisco , Sánchez Mariano S. , Sánchez Rocío , Santillán Vinicio , Schabo Dana G. , da Silva Fernanda Ribeiro , Timóteo Sérgio , Traveset Anna , Vollstädt Maximilian G. R. , Schleuning Matthias
Published: November 2018

Aim

Biogeographical comparisons of interaction networks help to elucidate differences in ecological communities and ecosystem functioning at large scales. Neotropical ecosystems have higher diversity and a different composition of frugivores and fleshy‐fruited plants compared with Afrotropical systems, but a lack of intercontinental comparisons limits understanding of (a) whether plant–frugivore networks are structured in a similar manner, and (b) whether the same species traits define the roles of animals across continents.

Location

Afrotropics and Neotropics.

Time period

1977–2015.

Taxa

Fleshy‐fruited plants and frugivorous vertebrates.

Methods

We compiled a dataset comprising 17 Afrotropical and 48 Neotropical weighted seed‐dispersal networks quantifying frugivory interactions between 1,091 fleshy‐fruited plant and 665 animal species, comprising in total 8,251 interaction links between plants and animals. In addition, we compiled information on the body mass of animals and their degree of frugivory. We compared four standard network‐level metrics related to interaction diversity and specialization, accounting for differences related to sampling effort and network location. Furthermore, we tested whether animal traits (body mass, degree of frugivory) differed between continents, whether these traits were related to the network roles of species and whether these relationships varied between continents.

Results

We found significant structural differences in networks between continents. Overall, Neotropical networks were less nested and more specialized than Afrotropical networks. At the species level, a higher body mass and degree of frugivory were associated with an increasing diversity of plant partners. Specialization of frugivores increased with the degree of frugivory, but only in the Neotropics.

Main conclusions

Our findings show that Afrotropical networks have a greater overlap in plant partners among vertebrate frugivores than the more diverse networks in the Neotropics that are characterized by a greater niche partitioning. Hence, the loss of frugivore species could have stronger impacts on ecosystem functioning in the more specialized Neotropical communities compared with the more generalized Afrotropical communities.
Cardiovascular disease and diabetes in HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative gay and bisexual men over the age of 55 years in Australia: insights from the Australian Positive & Peers Longevity Evaluation Study
Authors: Puhr R , Petoumenos K , Huang R , Templeton DJ , Woolley I , Bloch M , Russell D , Law MG , Cooper DA
Published: November 2018

Objectives

As HIV‐positive people age, diagnosis and management of comorbidities associated with ageing are of increasing concern. In this study, we aimed to compare the self‐reported prevalences of heart disease, stroke, thrombosis and diabetes in older Australian HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative gay and bisexual men (GBM).

Methods

We analysed data from the Australian Positive & Peers Longevity Evaluation Study (APPLES), a study of a prospectively recruited cross‐sectional sample of 228 (51.1%) HIV‐positive and 218 (48.9%) HIV‐negative GBM, aged ≥ 55 years. Regression methods were used to assess the association of HIV status with self‐reported comorbidities.

Results

Of 446 patients, 389 [200 (51.4%) HIV‐positive] reported their disease history. The reported prevalence of comorbidities was higher in the HIV‐positive group than in the HIV‐negative group: heart disease, 19.5 versus 12.2%; stroke, 7.5 versus 4.2%; thrombosis, 10.5 versus 4.2%; and diabetes, 15.0 versus 9.0%, respectively. In adjusted analyses, HIV‐positive GBM had significantly increased odds of reporting heart disease [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.99; P = 0.03] and thrombosis (aOR 2.87; P = 0.01). In our analysis, HIV status was not significantly associated with either age at diagnosis of heart disease (median 53 years for HIV‐positive GBM versus 55 years for HIV‐negative GBM; P = 0.64) or 5‐year cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk estimated using the Framingham risk score.

Conclusions

HIV‐positive GBM more commonly reported heart disease and thrombosis compared with their HIV‐negative peers. These results further highlight the need to understand the impact of HIV on age‐related comorbidities in GBM, to guide optimal screening and treatment strategies to reduce the risk of these comorbidities among the HIV‐positive population.
Tough Breaks: Trans Rage and the Cultivation of Resilience
Authors: Malatino Hilary
Published: November 2018

Countering hegemonic understandings of rage as a deleterious emotion, this article examines rage across specific sites of trans cultural production—the prison letters of CeCe McDonald and the durational performance art of Cassils—in order to argue that it is integral to trans survival and flourishing. Theorizing rage as a justified response to unlivable circumstances, a response that plays a key role in enabling trans subjects to detach from toxic relational dynamics in order to transition toward other forms of gendered subjectivity and intimate communality, I develop an account of what I call an “infrapolitical ethics of care” that indexes a web of communal practices that empathetically witness and amplify rage, as well as support subjects during and after moments of grappling with overwhelming negative affect. I draw on the work of trans, queer, and feminist theorists who have theorized the productivities of so‐called “negative” affects, particularly Sara Ahmed's work on willfulness and killing joy (2014), María Lugones's writing on anger (2003), Judith Butler's Spinozan reassessment of the vexed relations between self‐preservation and self‐destruction (2015), and the rich account of trans rage provided by Susan Stryker (1994).
EDTA conditioning of circumpulpal dentine induces dentinogenic events in pulpotomized miniature swine teeth
Authors: Tziafas D. , Kodonas K. , Gogos C. , Tziafa C. , Papadimitriou S.
Published: November 2018

Aim

To investigate pulp responses after pulpotomy and EDTA conditioning of pulp chamber dentinal walls with or without the placement of a collagenous scaffold in the experimental model of miniature swine teeth.

Methodology

Forty‐two fully developed permanent premolars and molars of healthy miniature swines were used. After preparation of pulp exposures through Class I cavities, the tissue of the pulp chamber was completely removed. The haemorrhage was controlled, and the root pulp was protected using a polyurethane film. The circumpulpal pulp chamber dentine was treated for 3 min with normal saline (group 1), or 17% EDTA solution (groups 2 and 3). The film was removed, and the pulp chamber cavities were left empty (groups 1 and 2), or filled with swine collagenous sponge (group 3). The access cavities were restored with a Teflon disc and glass ionomer. Teeth were evaluated histo‐morphologically after 10 weeks. Data were compared using the nonparametric Fisher's exact test.

Results

Teeth after treatment of dentine with saline (group 1) were associated with no or only traces of hard tissue formation along the root canal walls. Atubular tertiary dentine deposition in the form of matrix deposition along root canal walls, or dentine bridge formation at the orifice of root canals or complete pulp canal obliteration, was found after treatment of dentine with EDTA in both experiments (groups 2 and 3). Significantly different types of mineralization in the root canals of groups 2 and 3 were seen (P = 0.001). Tissue changes in the pulp cavity, characterized by soft tissue growth and osteodentine or atubular tertiary dentine formation, were only seen after EDTA conditioning of dentine, in 6.2% of the teeth without scaffold and 64.7% of the teeth with scaffold application. Newly deposited mineralized matrix in the pulp chamber was always in continuation with hard tissue deposited in the root canals.

Conclusions

The EDTA conditioning of pulp cavity dentinal walls after pulpotomy induced dentinogenic events in the root pulp. Application of collagenous scaffold in the pulp chamber enhanced soft tissue growth and mineralized tissue formation along the treated circumpulpal dentine.
Recovery of residual nutrients from agri‐food byproducts using a combination of solid‐state fermentation and insect rearing
Authors: Kuttiyatveetil Jijin R. A. , Mitra Pranabendu , Goldin Darren , Nickerson Michael T. , Tanaka Takuji
Published: November 2018

The present research develops an innovative nutrient recovery strategy for capturing of un‐utilised nutrients from agri‐food byproducts using a combination of solid state fermentation (SSF) and insect rearing. SSF of borage and flaxseed meals were performed using GRAS organisms to release indigenous nutrients and to produce additional nutrients. Proximate analysis of the SSF‐meals showed increases in both lipid and protein contents. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) were then grown on these SSF‐meals for 12 day. The meals fermented singularly with Lactobacillus plantarum or Aspergillus niger displayed up to 30% enhancement in BSFL biomass, and dual fermentation with L. plantarum and Aspergillus oryzae resulted in an additional 10% enhancement. These examinations showed SFL use over‐90% of proteins and lipids in SSF‐meals. The results indicate that fermentation of these low‐value meals can boost the efficacy of larval growth and the recovery of nutrients from agricultural byproducts as larval biomass.
Recent Developments in Dealing with Item Non‐response in Surveys: A Critical Review
Authors: Chen Sixia , Haziza David
Published: November 2018

The most common way for treating item non‐response in surveys is to construct one or more replacement values to fill in for a missing value. This process is known as imputation. We distinguish single from multiple imputation. Single imputation consists of replacing a missing value by a single replacement value, whereas multiple imputation uses two or more replacement values. This article reviews various imputation procedures used in National Statistical Offices as well as the properties of point and variance estimators in the presence of imputed survey data. It also provides the reader with newer developments in the field.
Histories of Change in Art and Design Education in Ireland: Towards Reform: the Evolving Trajectory of Art Education
Authors: Jordan Dervil , O'Donoghue Helen
Published: November 2018

The serious need for reform of the Leaving Certificate Art Curriculum in Ireland sets the context for this article, which tracks the social and political factors that shaped the emergence of art education in Ireland before and after the formation of the Free State. This historical framing creates the background for the training of art teachers over three paradigms of art teacher education – the Vocational, Expressivist and Contextual. Based on doctoral research, it examines the experiences of a group of art teachers trained within these paradigms. In light of current curriculum reform, it asks the question ‘Can art education can move from a modernist skills‐based paradigm, to become a vehicle for transformation, social engagement and citizenship within a revised Leaving Certificate Art curriculum’? It proposes that the contemporary art museum can be a transformative site for change within an art curriculum.
Is success in detection of Agrilus planipennis related to forest edges?
Authors: Cladas Karen Lynn , Bal Tara Lee , Storer Andrew John
Published: November 2018

The emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis) is a destructive invasive beetle that has caused mortality of millions of Fraxinus spp. trees in North America. The extended interval between insect establishment, detection and management has allowed this pest to spread over large parts of North America. Artificial purple canopy traps are currently used in national detection surveys for this beetle. The effectiveness of purple canopy traps at low‐to‐moderate A. planipennis population densities in relation to road proximity was evaluated in 2013 and 2014. Transects of traps were established at set distances from roads in northern Michigan near an isolated A. planipennis infestation. It was hypothesized that trap effectiveness is influenced by road proximity, and that traps placed closer to roads were more likely to detect A. planipennis. A significant relationship was established between the mean number of A. planipennis captured on traps and road proximity (nearness), while no significant relationship was observed between detection success and road proximity. These findings suggest establishing traps further from roads (which can be less economically efficient) provides no greater likelihood of detection than establishing traps on or near the road edge. Basal area of non‐ash and ash species, beetle population density, vigour rating, ash tree species and sampling duration were shown to significantly influence the number of A. planipennis captured on traps.
Protist Biodiversity and Biogeography in Lakes From Four Brazilian River–Floodplain Systems
Authors: Lentendu Guillaume , Buosi Paulo Roberto Bressan , Cabral Adalgisa Fernada , Trevizan Segóvia Bianca , Ramos Meira Bianca , Lansac‐Tôha Fernando Miranda , Velho Luiz Felipe Machado , Ritter Camila D. , Dunthorn Micah
Published: November 2018

The biodiversity and biogeography of protists inhabiting many ecosystems have been intensely studied using different sequencing approaches, but tropical ecosystems are relatively under‐studied. Here, we sampled planktonic waters from 32 lakes associated with four different river–floodplains systems in Brazil, and sequenced the DNA using a metabarcoding approach with general eukaryotic primers. The lakes were dominated by the largely free‐living Discoba (mostly the Euglenida), Ciliophora, and Ochrophyta. There was low community similarity between lakes even within the same river–floodplain. The protists inhabiting these floodplain systems comprise part of the large and relatively undiscovered diversity in the tropics.
Detection and quantification of Aeromonas schubertii in Channa maculata by TaqMan MGB probe fluorescence real‐time quantitative PCR
Authors: Liu Chun , Guo Yanming M. , Cao Jizhen Z. , Zhang De‐Feng , Chang Ou‐Qin , Li Kaibin , Wang Fang , Shi Cun‐Bin , Jiang Lan , Wang Qing , Lin Li
Published: November 2018

Aeromonas schubertii is a major epidemiological agent that threatens cultured snakeheads (Channidae) and has caused great economic losses in fish‐farming industries in China in recent years. In present study, a specific TaqMan minor groove binder (MGB) probe fluorescence real‐time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay was developed to rapidly detect and quantify A. schubertii. A pair of qPCR primers and a TaqMan MGB probe were selected from the rpoD gene, which were shown to be specific for A. schubertii. A high correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.9998) in a standard curve with a 103% efficiency was obtained. Moreover, the qPCR method's detection limit was as low as 18 copies/μl, which was 100 times more sensitive than that of conventional PCR. The detection results for the A. schubertii in pond water and fish tissue were consistent with those of the viable counts. Bacterial load changes detected by qPCR in different tissues of snakeheads infected with A. schubertii showed that the gills and intestines may be the entry for A. schubertii, and the spleen and kidney are major sites for A. schubertii replication. The established method in present study should be a useful tool for the early surveillance and quantitation of A. schubertii.