bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skin biopsy reveals generalized small fibre neuropathy in hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndromes
Authors: Igharo Denver , Thiel Joana C. , Rolke Roman , Akkaya Merve , Weis Joachim , Katona Istvan , Schulz Jörg B. , Maier Andrea
Published: November 2022

Background and purpose

Ehlers–Danlos syndromes are hereditary disorders of connective tissue that are characterized by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility and tissue fragility. The most common subtype is the hypermobile type. In addition to symptoms of small fibre neuropathy (SFN) due to damage to the small peripheral nerve fibres, with degeneration of the distal nerve endings, autonomic disorders such as postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS) are frequently reported features in patients with hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (hEDS). To date, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are still not completely understood.

Study Purpose

To better understand pathophysiological mechanisms of small fiber neuropathy and autonomic neuropathy in hypermobile Ehlers‐Danlos Syndromes.

Methods

We prospectively investigated 31 patients with hEDS compared to 31 healthy controls by using skin biopsy, quantitative sensory testing, tilt‐table testing, the painDetect, Small Fibre Neuropathy Screening List and the COMPASS‐31 (Composite Autonomic Symptom Score 31) questionnaire.

Results

Nineteen (61%) patients with hEDS were diagnosed with SFN, and 10 (32%) fulfilled the criteria for PoTS. Patients with hEDS had significantly higher heart rates than controls. According to quantitative sensory testing, these patients had generalized thermal and tactile hypesthesia. Skin biopsy revealed significantly reduced intraepithelial nerve fibre density proximally (thigh) and distally (lower leg) in patients compared to controls. This was consistent with various complaints of pain and sensory disturbances in both the proximal and distal body regions.

Conclusion

These results confirm histologically proven SFN as a common feature in patients with hEDS, revealing a generalized distribution of nerve fibre loss. Regarding the frequently reported autonomic and neuropathic dysfunctions, the findings support SFN as an important, but not the only, underlying pathomechanism.
Longitudinal study of clinical and neurophysiological features in essential tremor
Authors: Angelini Luca , Paparella Giulia , De Biase Alessandro , Maraone Annalisa , Panfili Matteo , Berardelli Isabella , Cannavacciuolo Antonio , Di Vita Antonella , Margiotta Roberta , Fabbrini Giovanni , Berardelli Alfredo , Bologna Matteo
Published: November 2022

Background and purpose

Essential tremor (ET) is a common and heterogeneous disorder characterized by postural/kinetic tremor of the upper limbs and other body segments and by non‐motor symptoms, including cognitive and psychiatric abnormalities. Only a limited number of longitudinal studies have comprehensively and simultaneously investigated motor and non‐motor symptom progression in ET. Possible soft signs that configure the ET‐plus diagnosis are also under‐investigated in follow‐up studies. We aimed to longitudinally investigate the progression of ET manifestations by means of clinical and neurophysiological evaluation.

Methods

Thirty‐seven ET patients underwent evaluation at baseline (T0) and at follow‐up (T1; mean interval ± SD = 39.89 ± 9.83 months). The assessment included the clinical and kinematic evaluation of tremor and voluntary movement execution, as well as the investigation of cognitive and psychiatric disorders.

Results

A higher percentage of patients showed tremor in multiple body segments and rest tremor at T1 as compared to T0 (all p‐values < 0.01). At T1, the kinematic analysis revealed reduced finger‐tapping movement amplitude and velocity as compared to T0 (both p‐values < 0.001). The prevalence of cognitive and psychiatric disorders did not change between T0 and T1. Female sex, absence of family history, and rest tremor at baseline were identified as predictive factors of worse disease progression.

Conclusions

ET progression is characterized by the spread of tremor in multiple body segments and by the emergence of soft signs. We also identified possible predictors of disease worsening. The results contribute to a better understanding of ET classification and pathophysiology.
Comparative efficacy and safety of monoamine oxidase type B inhibitors plus channel blockers and monoamine oxidase type B inhibitors as adjuvant therapy to levodopa in the treatment of Parkinson's disease: a network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yan Rui , Cai Huihui , Cui Yusha , Su Dongning , Cai Guoen , Lin Fabin , Feng Tao
Published: November 2022

Background and purpose

The monoamine oxidase type B inhibitors plus channel blockers (MAO‐BIs plus) are a new class of antiparkinsonian drug with additional mechanisms of action for their property as ion channel blockers. The present study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of MAO‐BIs plus and conventional MAO‐BIs, as well as their corresponding doses, as adjuvant therapy to levodopa in the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD).

Method

Randomized controlled trials enrolling PD patients treated with selegiline, rasagiline, safinamide or zonisamide as adjuvant therapy to levodopa were identified. Bayesian network meta‐analysis was conducted.

Results

Thirty‐one randomized controlled trials comprising 7142 PD patients were included. Compared with levodopa monotherapy, the combination therapy of MAO‐BIs and levodopa was significantly more effective, with a mean difference of 2.74 (1.26–4.18) on the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) III score change for selegiline, 2.67 (1.45–3.87) for safinamide, 2.2 (0.98–3.64) for zonisamide and 2.04 (1.24–2.87) for rasagiline. No significant difference was detected amongst MAO‐BIs. The surface under the cumulative ranking results showed that safinamide 100 mg and rasagiline 1 mg ranked first in improving UPDRS III and UPDRS II, respectively. Zonisamide 100 mg ranked first in reducing OFF time. For safety outcomes, rasagiline was associated with a higher incidence of adverse events than placebo and safinamide. MAO‐BIs plus had a higher probability of being safer agents compared to conventional MAO‐BIs.

Conclusions

Monoamine oxidase type B inhibitors plus, conventional MAO‐BIs and the corresponding doses are similar in efficacy in PD treatment. MAO‐BIs plus might be safer than conventional MAO‐BIs. Head‐to‐head comparisons are needed for further investigation.
Individuality and community: The limits of social constructivism
Authors: Zahavi Dan
Published: November 2022

Is selfhood socially constituted and distributed? Although the view has recently been defended by some cognitive scientists, it has long been popular within anthropology and cultural psychology. Whereas older texts by Marcel Mauss, Clifford Geertz, Hazel Rose Markus, and Shinobu Kitayama often contrast a Western conception of a discrete, bounded, and individual self with a non‐Western sociocentric conception, it has more recently become common to argue that subjectivity is a fluid intersectional construction fundamentally relational and conditioned by discursive power structures. I assess the plausibility of these claims and argue that many of these discussions of self and subjectivity remain too crude. By failing to distinguish different dimension of selfhood, many authors unwittingly advocate a form of radical social constructivism that is not only incapable of doing justice to first‐person experience but which also fails to capture the heterogeneity of real communal life.
Phycoerythrin as a potential natural colourant: A mini review
Authors: George Reenu , John Jenny Ann
Published: November 2022

Food colours from natural resources have rapidly increased in popularity in recent years, with increased demand from the industry and health‐conscious consumers. Natural pigments may be of plant, animal or microbial origin. The pigments derived from microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi and microalgae are in higher demand as reliable sources of natural food colours. Similarly, the commercial use of algae has received a lot of attention, due to its potential applications in a variety of fields, including food, cosmetics, agriculture, horticulture and in human health. Chlorophylls, carotenoids (carotenes and xanthophylls) and phycobilins are the three main families of photosynthetic pigments found in algae. In spite of its great demand, the application of phycoerythrin (PE), a red‐coloured pigment under the phycobilin family, is however very challenging in terms of its extraction and stability under normal conditions. It is found in cyanobacteria (prokaryotic green‐blue microalgae) and microalgae (eukaryotic microalgae). The present review intends to provide an insight into the less explored phycoerythrin pigment, its sources, properties, extraction techniques and applications in the food industry.
Interleukin‐3 stabilizes CD124/IL‐4α surface expression in mast cells via Tyk2 and STAT6
Authors: Drube Sebastian , Strotmann Birgit , Wegner Philine , Jäger Ute‐Maria , Küchler Claudia , Andreas Nico
Published: November 2022

Interleukin (IL)‐4 signals can modulate mast cells, which express the IL‐4Rα chain. The IL‐4Rα can heterodimerise with the common γ‐chain and utilizes JAK1 and JAK2 for signal transduction, while complexes of IL‐4Rα with IL‐13Rα1 subunit mediates signals via JAK2 and Tyk2. Here, we report that IL‐3 is an essential factor for the continuous expression of the IL‐4Rα chain on mast cells, which did not express the IL‐13Rα1 chain. We demonstrate that the signals induced by IL‐3 important for IL‐4Rα expression are mediated by Tyk2 and STAT6 activation and the subsequent maintenance of HSP90 levels. In line with that, inhibition of either Tyk2, STAT6 or HSP90 impaired the IL‐3‐induced IL‐4Rα upregulation. Consequently, the IL‐3 maintained IL‐4Rα surface expression via Tyk2 is essential for the costimulatory effect of IL‐4 on the IL‐33‐induced production of IL‐6 and IL‐13.
Beta‐endorphin levels in newborn cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Burnard E. D. , Todd D. A. , John E. , Hindmarsh K.W.
Published: November 2022

β‐endorphin was measured by a commercial radioimmune assay in the CSF of term and preterm babies. In babies who were well it was 33 (range 25‐45, SEM 1.6) pg/ml. The range was wide in the immediate postnatal period, the first 24 h mean value 93(25‐184, SEM 11.9) and the first 3 d 88(25‐184, SEM 8.5) pg/ml. There was a large difference between babies asphyxiated and nonasphyxiated by clinical standards, 122 vs 31 pg/ml (p < .001) for the first 24 h and 109 vs 34 pg/ml (p < .001) for the 3 days. Reasons were given to believe that at least the 24 h measurements continued to represent conditions at birth and that the broad range was explicable by the degree of birth asphyxiation which is characteristic of any large series. In babies examined at subsequent ages similarly wide ranges were found, 32‐293 pg/ml in those with diagnosed complaints and 30‐203 pg/ml In symptomatic but undiagnosed disorders, and attributed to the stress of illness. Levels in the apnoea of prematurity of 80 (range 28‐138, SEM 5.9) pg/ml were substantially higher than in well babies (p < .001). Two possible sources of stress were considered in explanation and speculation raised on a contributory role of immaturity.
Challenges and future directions in the measurement of evidence‐based practice: Qualitative analysis of umbrella review findings
Authors: Roberge‐Dao Jacqueline , Maggio Lauren A. , Zaccagnini Marco , Rochette Annie , Shikako Keiko , Boruff Jill , Thomas Aliki
Published: November 2022

Rationale, Aims and Objectives

An important aspect of scholarly discussions about evidence‐based practice (EBP) is how EBP is measured. Given the conceptual and empirical developments in the study of EBP over the last 3 decades, there is a need to better understand how to best measure EBP in educational and clinical contexts. The aim of this study was to identify and describe the main challenges, recommendations for practice, and areas of future research in the measurement of EBP across the health professions as reported by systematic reviews (SRs).

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of qualitative data obtained in the context of a previously published umbrella review that aimed to compare SRs on EBP measures. Two reviewers independently extracted excerpts from the results and discussion/conclusion sections of the 10 included SRs that aligned with the three research aims. An iterative six‐phase reflexive thematic analysis according to Braun and Clarke was conducted.

Results

Our thematic analysis produced five themes describing the main challenges associated with measuring EBP, four themes outlining main recommendations for practice, and four themes representing areas of future research. Challenges include limited psychometric testing and validity evidence for existing EBP measures; limitations with the self‐report format; lack of construct clarity of EBP measures; inability to capture the complexity of the EBP process and outcomes; and the context‐specific nature of EBP measures. Reported recommendations for practice include acknowledging the multidimensionality of EBP; adapting EBP measures to the context and re‐examining the validity argument; and considering the feasibility and acceptability of measures. Areas of future research included the development of comprehensive, multidimensional EBP measures and the need for expert consensus on the operationalization of EBP.

Conclusions

This study suggests that existing measures may be insufficient in capturing the multidimensional, contextual and dynamic nature of EBP. There is a need for a clear operationalization of EBP and an improved understanding and application of validity theory.
An evaluation of the convergent validity of a face‐to‐face and virtual neuropsychological assessment counter balanced
Authors: Krynicki Carl R. , Hacker David , Jones Christopher A.
Published: November 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic has highlighted the need for further research evaluating the validity of conducting a battery of neuropsychological assessments virtually compared with face‐to‐face administration. Previous research has suggested that some neuropsychological assessments yield valid results when administered virtually, however, much of the previous research focused on older adults. To determine the validity of virtually administered neuropsychological tests, 28 healthy participants were assessed using a within‐subjects, counter‐balanced design. Participants completed a neuropsychological assessment battery covering tests of general intellectual functioning, memory and attention, executive functioning, language and information processing speed, as well as effort. There was no significant difference between face‐to‐face administration of the neuropsychological battery compared with virtual administration for the majority of the tests used. However, there were significant differences in the Colour Naming Task, with participants making fewer errors on the colour naming task and inhibition/switching task when administered virtually compared with face‐to‐face administration. There was also a significant age cohort effect in the inhibition/switching task. There was also a trending significant difference in mode of administration for the Verbal Fluency Task. Virtually administered neuropsychological assessments largely provide a valid alternative to face‐to‐face assessments; however, consideration must be given to test selection as well as the population of participants that are being assessed. Other important considerations must focus on preserving the security and integrity of test materials, as well as administration in a medico‐legal setting. Future research should focus on validating assessments with specific patient populations and developing a neuropsychological assessment battery using information technology.
Results of the patch tests with European baseline series in children: Five years of experience from a single center in Turkey and a review of the literature
Authors: Kakşi Sümeyye Altıntaş , Kahraman Filiz Cebeci , Akdeniz Necmettin , Özen Tunç
Published: November 2022

Background

Pediatric allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is increasingly prevalent. Patch testing is the gold‐standard diagnostic method.

Aims

Our study aimed to identify common contact‐sensitizing allergens in Turkish children.

Patients/Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the patch test results and characteristics of 191 pediatric patients [114 (59.7%) females, 77 (40.3%) males], who received the diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis between 2015 and 2019.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 12.2 years (range 4–18 years). Thirty‐six (18.8%) of the patients in the study group had positive patch test outcomes with 56 positive allergens. Girls had a significantly higher rate of total positive patch test results than boys (75%/25%; p = 0.003, p < 0.05). The most frequent four allergens were nickel sulfate (n = 20, 10.4%), cobalt chloride (n = 6, 3.14%), p‐phenylenediamine (n = 5, 2.61%), Methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (n = 5, 2.61%), respectively.

Conclusions

In our study, we discovered that in addition to the frequently encountered metal allergens such as nickel and cobalt, p‐phenylenediamine and Methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone sensitivities were frequent in the Turkish population. p‐phenylenediamine sensitization can cause serious systemic dermatitis during the lifetime of children. We suggest that in Turkey personal care and hygiene products containing Methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone should be legally regulated. Since childhood contact dermatitis may have an impact on the quality of life by influencing family and social life, suspected allergens should be detected as early as possible.
Helpful encounters with mental health nurses in Australia: A survey of service users and their supporters
Authors: Lakeman Richard , Foster Kim , Hazelton Mike , Roper Cath , Hurley John
Published: November 2022

Accessible Summary

What is known about the subject?

Most nurses who work in mental health in Australia have completed a comprehensive nursing programme at a university. This training has been widely criticized and has not produced “job‐ready” graduates. Public inquiries into mental health services have highlighted the need for transformation of mental health services and concern about future nursing shortages.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge?

This survey highlights what service users and supporters perceive are useful nursing skills and capabilities. The characteristics of helpful encounters with nurses are also described.

What are the implications for practice?

Helpful nursing practice is aligned with traditional nursing values and theory, rather than the performance of specific tasks. Improving the retention of nurses to this specialty area of practice requires educational processes to enable nurses to enact values, develop their therapeutic potential and undertake facilitative and supportive practices which are helpful to service users.

Introduction

Successive inquiries into mental health services in Australia have identified the need for major reform of services and proposed a return to direct‐entry nursing training.

Aim/Question

To identify what service users, family and supporters have found helpful in their encounters with nurses in mental health settings.

Method

A survey of 95 service users and supporters rated the importance of the capabilities and competencies of nurses. They also shared examples of helpful encounters with nurses which were subject to thematic analysis.

Results

The most highly rated competencies were around demonstrating caring, empathy and understanding, and responding effectively in crisis situations. Helpful encounters involved enacted values, highly skilful interpersonal and psychotherapeutic engagement and practices that were facilitative and supportive.

Discussion

The process and content of pre‐registration nursing training needs to refocus on the nurse meeting the needs of service users and supporters, rather than the instrumental needs of services today.

Implications for Practice

Educational reform may be necessary but insufficient to address anticipated nursing workforce shortages. Policymakers and health service directors need to align services with mental health nursing values and promote practices aligned with what service users and their supporters report as helpful.
You've Been Warned: Does Information About Pitfalls of Technological Toys Affect Caregiver Behavior?
Authors: Hassinger‐Das Brenna , Dore Rebecca A. , Zosh Jennifer M.
Published: November 2022

Although the presence of toys in childhood has remained steady for decades, the types of toys that fill children's toy boxes have changed, especially over the last 10–15 years. Many of today's toys are marked by technological enhancements, from a shape sorter driven by a singing bear to robotic plastic animals designed to match a toddler's favorite television show. Although examining the effects of these changes is still an unexplored area, research to date suggests that there may be costs to the quality of caregiver–child interaction when using these toys together. This leads to two possibilities: (1) the design of the enhancements themselves hurt interactions; or (2) these toys can still be beneficial to interactions, but caregivers simply need to be aware of the potential pitfalls. In this study, we explore whether providing caregivers with a subtle cue about the potential negative impacts of technological toys on caregiver–child interaction affects their behavior.
Professional development and career planning for nurses working in care homes for older people: A scoping review
Authors: Fitzpatrick Joanne M. , Bianchi Leda A. , Hayes Nicky , Da Silva Tiago , Harris Ruth
Published: November 2022

Background

A skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate nurse workforce is pivotal to caring well for older people living in care homes. This requires the provision of continuing professional development and career planning for nurses, which are key also for nurse recruitment and retention. Continuing professional development and career planning strategies and interventions should be evidence‐driven.

Objective

To identify the extent, range and nature of contemporary evidence regarding professional development and career planning for nurses caring for older people living in care homes.

Methods

The methodological framework used was the Joanna Briggs Institute guidance for scoping reviews. The PRISMA extension for scoping reviews was used as the reporting framework. Four databases were searched from January 2010 to July 2021. Results were screened independently by two reviewers using eligibility criteria. Full texts and the reference lists of eligible articles were reviewed. Data were extracted for key elements from the 25 articles included.

Results

Of the 25 articles, the majority were authored in the United States (n = 10) and UK (n = 8) with the remaining from Australia (n = 3), Canada (n = 3) and the Netherlands (n = 1). Four articles reported on professional development programmes. Three literature reviews addressed challenges for nurse participation in professional development, experiences of care home nurses as clinical leaders and managers, and leadership. Two expert commentaries reported on the challenges related to professional development and career planning for care home nurses. Sixteen empirical studies investigated a range of topics including: competencies, roles, intention to stay and leave, continuing professional development, and leadership. Key emergent factors that support professional development and career planning were as follows: access to structured learning opportunities addressing knowledge and skills specific to nursing frail older adults, a supportive working environment including adequate staffing, study time and flexible working, and integration of leadership development.

Conclusions and implications for practice

This scoping review has highlighted factors that support and challenge professional development and career planning for nurses working in the care home sector. There remain important gaps in the opportunities for professional development and career planning for care home nurses that warrant attention.
Outcomes in Patients with Global Pincer Versus Focal Pincer Femoroacetabular Impingement Treated with Hip Arthroscopy: A Retrospective Study with a Minimum 2‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Shao Jia‐Yi , He Zi‐Yi , Xu Yan , Dai Ling‐Hui , Wang Jian‐quan , Ju Xiao‐Dong
Published: November 2022

Objective

Global pincer is a relatively rare form of pincer deformity and is typically associated with technical challenges during surgery. So far, controversy remains whether patients with global pincer have equivalent surgical outcomes compared to patients with focal pincer. This study compares the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic treatment between patients with global pincer femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and focal pincer FAI in the Chinese population.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected from patients with global and focal pincer FAI who underwent hip arthroscopy with a minimum two‐year follow‐up between April 2016 and December 2018. Radiographic measurements, arthroscopic procedures, preoperative and postoperative patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) including modified Harris hip score (mHHS), hip outcome score‐activities of daily living (HOS‐ADL), international hip outcome tool–12 (iHOT‐12), and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, rates of revision surgery and conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA) were recorded. Achievement of minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) was compared for the VAS, mHHS, HOS‐ADL, and iHOT‐12 scores between groups.

Results

The total of 33 and 167 patients were included in the global and focal group, respectively. There were no intergroup differences in age, gender, body mass index or follow‐up times. Lateral center‐edge angle (LCEA) was reduced in both groups postoperatively. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in PROs compared with preoperative levels at the final follow‐up. The preoperative scores showed significant differences in terms of mHHS (60.34 vs 62.90, P = 0.031) and HOS‐ADL (61.45 vs 64.74, P = 0.022) scores between two groups, and the improvement of HOS‐ADL score was significantly higher in global group (P = 0.027). However, the postoperative scores, including VAS, mHHS, HOS‐ADL, and iHOT‐12 scores, showed no significant differences between two groups. And there were no significant differences in the rate of meeting the PASS and MCID between groups. One (3.0%) in the global group and six (3.6%) patients in the focal group underwent revision arthroscopy respectively, with no significant difference (P = 0.876). There were no conversions to THA in both groups.

Conclusions

Arthroscopic management of global pincer FAI can achieve excellent functional scores at minimum 2‐year follow‐up. The outcomes were similar to focal pincer FAI patients with a low rate of secondary procedure.
Chronic kidney disease is associated with increased all‐cause mortality in transvenous lead extraction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tan Min Choon , Talaei Fahimeh , Trongtorsak Angkawipa , Lee Justin Z. , Rattanawong Pattara
Published: November 2022

Background

The impact of chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) on patients receiving transvenous lead extraction (TLE) is not well‐established. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to explore the association between CKD and all‐cause mortality in TLE.

Methods

We searched the databases of PubMed and EMBASE from inception to April 2022. Included studies were published TLE studies that compared the risk of mortality in CKD patients compared to control patients. Data from each study were combined using the random‐effects model.

Results

Eight studies (5,013 patients) were included. Compared with controls, CKD patients had a significantly higher risk of overall all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.14, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.65–2.77, I2 = 51.1%, p < .001). The risk of overall all‐cause mortality increased with the severity of CKD for nonspecific CKD (HR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.49–2.69, I2 = 53.4, p < .001) and ESRD (HR = 2.79, 95% CI: 1.85–4.23, I2 = 0%, p < .001). The risk of all‐cause mortality in CKD is double at follow‐up ≤1 year (HR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.29–3.09, I2 = 50.9%, p = .002) and higher at follow‐up >1 year (HR = 2.36, 95% CI: 1.63–3.42, I2  = 59.7%, p < .001).

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis demonstrates a significantly increased risk of overall all‐cause mortality in patients with CKD who underwent TLE compared to controls.
980 nm Photobiomodulation Promotes Osteo/Odontogenic Differentiation of the Stem Cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth Via the Cross talk Between BMP/Smad and Wnt/β‐Catenin Signaling Pathways
Authors: Wang Ziting , Tian Tian , Chen Leyi , Zhang Chuhan , Zheng Xiao , Zhong Ni , Wu Buling , Xu Wen'an
Published: November 2022

Increasing evidence suggests stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) serve as desirable sources of dentin regeneration. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has shown great potential in enhancing the proliferation and osteogenesis of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMMSCs). However, the specific role of PBM in odontogenic differentiation of SHEDs is little know, and we further investigated potential mechanism of PBM osteo/odontogenisis. A 980 nm diode laser with different energy densities of (0.5, 5, 10 J cm−2) in a 100‐mW continuous wave was used for irradiation every 24 h. Osteo/odontogenic differentiation of SHEDs was achieved by performing alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alizarin red staining (ARS) and osteo/odontogenic markers were also evaluated by qRT‐PCR and western blotting. Additionally, western blot and immunohistochemical staining were performed to evaluate the levels of BMP/Smad and Wnt/β‐catenin signaling‐related proteins. We found that PBM at 5 J cm−1 increased mineral deposition and upregulated the expression of related osteo/odontogenic markers along with the elevated expression of β‐catenin and phosphorylation level of Smad1/5/9. Furthermore, Wnt signaling inhibition using DKK1 and BMP signaling inhibition using noggin inhibited PBM‐induced osteo/odontogenic marker expression when used individually or jointly. In conclusion, PBM induces the osteo/odontogenic differentiation of SHEDs through cross talk between BMP/Smad and Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathways.
Alternate wetting and drying modulated physio‐biochemical attributes, grain yield, quality, and aroma volatile in fragrant rice
Authors: Ashraf Umair , Hussain Saddam , Naveed Shahid Muhammad , Anjum Shakeel Ahmad , Kondo Motohiko , Mo Zhaowen , Tang Xiangru
Published: November 2022

Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) has been recognized as a water‐saving technology in rice production systems; however, pre‐ and post‐flowering AWD could induce changes in yield, quality and aroma biosynthesis in fragrant rice. In the present study, two fragrant rice cultivars (Guixiangzhan and Nongxiang‐18) were subjected to AWD till soil water potential reached −25 to −30 kPa during vegetative stage (VS), reproductive stage (RS), and both stages (VS + RS). The AWD did not affect net photosynthesis and gas exchange significantly, while malondialdehyde (MDA), H2O2 and electrolyte leakage (EL) were higher than in control plants. The AWD treatments variably affected soluble sugars, proline and protein accumulation as well as the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and reduced glutathione (GSH) contents. Moreover, filled grain percentage and 1000‐grain weight in AWD treatments were found to be statistically similar (p > 0.05) to control, except grains panicle−1 under AWD‐VS + RS that was reduced by 11% and 14% for Guixiangzhan and Nongxiang‐18, respectively. On average, yield and related attributes in Guixiangzhan remained higher than in Nongxiang‐18. In addition, the grain aroma volatile (2‐acetyl‐1‐pyrroline, 2‐AP) content increased by 8.79%, 14.45%, and 6.87% and 7.95%, 14.02%, and 5.04% under AWD‐VS, AWD‐RS, and AWD‐VS + RS treatments, for Guixiangzhan and Nongxiang‐18, respectively. Overall, AWD treatments, either at VS or RS, could promote rice aroma in terms of accumulation of 2AP, which might be linked with enhanced endogenous proline contents (a precursor for 2AP biosynthesis) without any severe consequences on rice yield and quality.
The PavNAC56 transcription factor positively regulates fruit ripening and softening in sweet cherry (Prunus avium)
Authors: Qi Xiliang , Dong Yuanxin , Liu Congli , Song Lulu , Chen Lei , Li Ming
Published: November 2022

The rapid softening of sweet cherry fruits during ripening results in the deterioration of fruit quality. However, few genes related to sweet cherry fruit ripening and softening have been identified, and the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying this process are poorly understood. Here, we identified and functionally characterized PavNAC56, a NAC transcription factor that positively regulates sweet cherry fruit ripening and softening. Gene expression analyses showed that PavNAC56 was specifically and abundantly expressed in the fruit, and its transcript levels increased in response to abscisic acid (ABA). A subcellular localization analysis revealed that PavNAC56 is a nucleus‐localized protein. Virus‐induced gene silencing of PavNAC56 inhibited fruit ripening, enhanced fruit firmness, decreased the contents of ABA, anthocyanins, and soluble solids, and down‐regulated several fruit ripening‐related genes. Yeast one‐hybrid and dual‐luciferase assays showed that PavNAC56 directly binds to the promoters of several genes related to cell wall metabolism (PavPG2, PavEXPA4, PavPL18, and PavCEL8) and activates their expression. Overall, our findings show that PavNAC56 plays an indispensable role in controlling the ripening and softening of sweet cherry fruit and provides new insights into the regulatory mechanisms by which NAC transcription factors affect nonclimacteric fruit ripening and softening.
Prediction and association analyses of skin phenotypes in Japanese females using genetic, environmental, and physical features
Authors: Amano Satoshi , Yoshikawa Tatsuya , Ito Chiaki , Mabuchi Ikumi , Kikuchi Kumiko , Ooguri Motoki , Yasuda Chie
Published: November 2022

Background

Skin characteristics show great variation from person to person and are affected by multiple factors, including genetic, environmental, and physical factors, but details of the involvement and contributions of these factors remain unclear.

Objectives

We aimed to characterize genetic, environmental, and physical factors affecting 16 skin features by developing models to predict personal skin characteristics.

Methods

We analyzed the associations of skin phenotypes with genetic, environmental, and physical features in 1472 Japanese females aged 20–80 years. We focused on 16 skin characteristics, including melanin, brightness/lightness, yellowness, pigmented spots, wrinkles, resilience, moisture, barrier function, texture, and sebum amount. As genetic factors, we selected 74 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms of genes related to skin color, vitamin level, hormones, circulation, extracellular matrix (ECM) components and ECM‐degrading enzymes, inflammation, and antioxidants. Histories of ultraviolet (UV) exposure and smoking as environmental factors and age, height, and weight as physical factors were acquired by means of a questionnaire.

Results

A linear association with age was prominent for increase in the area of crow's feet, increase in number of pigmented spots, decrease in forehead sebum, and increase in VISIA wrinkle parameters. Associations were analyzed by constructing linear regression models for skin feature changes and logistic regression models to predict whether subjects show lower or higher skin measurement values in the same age groups. Multiple genetic factors, history of UV exposure and smoking, and body mass index were statistically selected for each skin characteristic. The most important association found for skin spots, such as lentigines and wrinkles, was adolescent sun exposure.

Conclusion

Genetic, environmental, and physical factors associated with interindividual differences of the selected skin features were identified. The developed models should be useful to predict the skin characteristics of individuals and their age‐related changes.
Comparison of three rebound tonometers in normal and glaucomatous dogs
Authors: Hodgson Kimberly J. , Harman Christine D. , Bajric Shayla , Cabble Ava , Anderson Amanda L. , Palanivel Hemalatha , Taylor David A. , Komáromy András M.
Published: November 2022

Objective

The objectives of the study were to compare intraocular pressure (IOP) readings across a wide range and obtained via three rebound tonometers in ADAMTS10‐mutant Beagle‐derived dogs with different stages of open‐angle glaucoma (OAG) and normal control dogs and to investigate the effect of central corneal thickness (CCT).

Animals Studied

Measurements were performed on 99 eyes from 50 Beagle‐derived dogs with variable genetics—16 non‐glaucomatous and 34 with ADAMTS10‐OAG. Seventeen OAG eyes were measured twice—with and without the use of IOP‐lowering medications.

Procedures

IOP was measured in each eye using three tonometers with their “dog” setting—ICare® Tonovet (TV), ICare® Tonovet Plus® (TVP), and the novel Reichert® Tono‐Vera® Vet (TVA)—in randomized order. CCT was measured with the Accutome® PachPen. Statistical analyses included one‐way ANOVA, Tukey pairwise comparisons, and regression analyses of tonometer readings and pairwise IOP‐CCT Pearson correlations (MiniTab®).

Results

A total of 116 IOP measurements were taken with each of the three tonometers. When comparing readings over a range of ~7–77 mmHg, mean IOPs from the TV were significantly lower compared with TVP (−4.6 mmHg, p < .001) and TVA (−3.7 mmHg, p = .001). We found no significant differences between TVA and TVP measurements (p = .695). There was a moderate positive correlation between CCT and IOP for TVA (r = 0.53, p < .001), TVP (r = 0.48, p < .001), and TV (r = 0.47, p < .001).

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate strong agreement between TVP and TVA, suggesting that the TVA may similarly reflect true IOP values in canines. CCT influenced IOP measurements of all three tonometers.
Ecdysis for globalization: ESP in Japan today
Authors: Noguchi Judy
Published: November 2022

The Japanese are often made fun of for their lack of ability to use other languages, especially English. This article will suggest some reasons for this and then go on to describe various efforts being made to improve English education in Japan. One of these has been the application of an ESP (English for specific purposes) approach to the teaching of specific language registers. Various examples are presented to show how ESP concepts can be applied from secondary school to graduate school language education. These efforts should result in an ecdysis that produces Japanese who can use English for specific purposes according to their communicative needs.
First report of knowledge and practices towards toxoplasmosis among cat owners: A cross‐sectional survey in Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin AHM Musleh , Hasan Tanjila , Hossain Delower , Nahar Kamrun , Islam Tauhidul , Islam MD. Tanvir , Saraf Md. Sawkat Hasan , Karim Md Robiul , Atikuzzaman Mohammad , Ahsan Md. Irtija
Published: November 2022

Raising awareness about Toxoplasma gondii infection among cat owners in Bangladesh is indispensable to formulate persuasive management tactics to avoid zoonotic infections from pet cats. However, to the authors' best knowledge, no studies have been performed in Bangladesh to determine knowledge and practices of toxoplasmosis in cat owners. Therefore, the objectives of the current study were to cover this research gap. We carried out a cross‐sectional study in Bangladesh from June 2020 through December 2021. A structured online questionnaire was distributed to cat owners, which were voluntarily completed by them. The questionnaire included socio‐demographic data, aetiology, transmissions, clinical signs, and preventive practices towards toxoplasmosis. Overall, 1,019 cat owners participated voluntarily in the cross‐sectional survey. Among them, 793 (77.82%) participants showed poor knowledge regarding toxoplasmosis. Under specific knowledge sections, 62.51% of the participants revealed incorrect knowledge that toxoplasmosis was a zoonotic disease. In the same way, (72.03–85.77) % of the cat owners were unaware that the disease could be transmitted from improperly washed vegetables, raw or undercooked meat and fish, and contaminated water and milk with cat faeces. Respondents' age, education, occupation, residence type, and marital status were significantly (p < .05) associated with their knowledge level. Besides, 94.11% of cat owners had a good practice level. They followed good practices in different issues; however, they practiced those activities without knowing their impacts on disease control. Cat owners' age, education, occupation, and residence type had a significant (p < .05) association with the practice level against toxoplasmosis. This is the first study highlighting the low level of knowledge among cat owners about toxoplasmosis in Bangladesh. These knowledge gaps could increase the risk and transmission of Toxoplasma gondii infection among them and their families. The survey recommends the arrangement of educational training and programmes to increase the awareness of toxoplasmosis among cat owners.
Integrative taxonomy reveals hidden diversity within the concept of a laelapine mite species (Mesostigmata: Laelapidae) associated with sigmodontine rodents (Cricetidae): description of three new species of Laelaps Koch in the Neotropical region
Authors: Savchenko Ekaterina , Lareschi Marcela
Published: November 2022

Laelapine mites are one of the most common ectoparasites of cricetid rodents. The taxonomical status is unclear of mites reported as Laelaps manguinhosi-like mites, since morphological variation was reported within the species in association with taxonomically and ecologically distinct sigmodontine rodents. We analysed morphological (qualitative and metric variation) and molecular data of four morphotypes of L. manguinhosi-like mites collected from three sigmodontine rodents (Cricetidae) of the tribe Oryzomyini (Holochilus brasiliensis, Nectomys squamipes and Oligoryzomys flavescens) and one of the tribe Akodontini (Scapteromys aquaticus). For better understanding, we defined L. manguinhosi sensu lato as a species concept and limited in a narrower sense L. manguinhosi sensu stricto. The association known from the literature between L. manguinhosi sensu stricto and H. brasiliensis was confirmed and additional information of this mite was provided. Mites associated with the remaining rodent species appear to be new species within L. manguinhosi sensu lato species complex, here described as Laelaps galliarii sp. nov., Laelaps scapteromyos sp. nov., Laelaps odysseos sp. nov., parasitizing O. flavescens, S. aquaticus and N. squamipes, respectively. Morphological analysis showed clear separation between the four studied species, with the majority also supported by molecular data. These results reinforce previous observations that Laelaps species are specific at least to the level of the host genus. Phylogenetic analysis based on 18.S-ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 partial gene markers indicate an earlier host-switch scenario between an akodontine associate (L. scapteromyos sp. nov.) and an oryzomyine associate (L. manguinhosi sensu stricto) followed by cospeciation events. Studied morphotypes of Laelaps were resolved as three separated clades. The basal one included mite species associated exclusively with Murinae (Old World) rodents and the other two are specific to Sigmodontinae (New World). The clade of sigmodontine associates was further divided into a cluster of mites parasitizing semiaquatic rodents and another cluster comprising mites parasitizing scansorial rodents. The obtained topology indicates that both, the phylogeny of rodent hosts and their ecological traits may play an important role in the coevolutionary process of host-mite relationships.
New and rare palaearctic euptyctimous mite species (Acari, Oribatida)
Authors: Niedbała Wojciech , Kaczmarek Sławomir , Skoracki Maciej
Published: November 2022

In the paper, we present ptyctimous mite species collected from Norway, Spain, France, Italy, India, and South Korea. Two new species, Acrotritia quasiparadikra Niedbała sp. nov. from India and Phthiracarus paralentulus Niedbała sp. nov. from South Korea are described. In addition, we provide the supplementary descriptions of ten species belonging to six genera, i.e., Austrotritia dentata Aoki, 1980, Acrotritia furcata Bayoumi et Mahunka, 1979, A. koreensis (Mahunka, 1997), Microtritia minima (Berlese, 1904), Phthiracarus clemens Aoki, 1980, P. crenophilus Willmann, 1951, P. similis Niedbała, 1981, Steganacarus (Steganacarus) carusoi Bernini et Avanzati, 1989, S. (S.) doumandji Niedbała, 1986, and Austrophthiracarus maritimus (Pérez-Íñigo et Pérez-Íñigo, 1996). We also include information and comments on the distribution of investigated species.
A DNA barcoding and photo-documentation resource of water mites (Acariformes, Hydrachnidia) of Siberia: Accurate species identification for global climate change monitoring programs
Authors: Klimov Pavel B. , Stolbov Vitaly A. , Kazakov Denis V. , Filimonova Maria O. , Sheykin Sergey D.
Published: November 2022

Water mites (Hydrachnidia) are good model organisms for the assessment and long-term monitoring of the biological impacts of natural and human-induced environmental changes in freshwater ecosystems, including those related to global climate change. However, monitoring programs using water mites as bioindicators may be impeded by difficulties associated with species identification. Here we integrate conventional morphology, DNA sequence data (using the COX1 barcoding locus) and extensive voucher photo documentation to create and validate a tool for accurate species identification of water mites in Western Siberia (including a dedicated reference climate monitoring and research site). Using this approach, we detected a total of 95 species, of which, one was a conventional new species; 14 taxa were cryptic species having large among-species COX1 K2P distances but lacking any apparent morphological differences. Our a priori species delimitation was successfully validated a posteriori. An automatic species delimitation algorithm (ASAP) identified exactly the same set of 95 species, with a species delimitation threshold of 6.1%. This result agrees with previous works suggesting a large threshold of 5.6–6.0% for water mites, but contrasts with the BOLD approach which uses a much lower threshold to identify BINs (1%). Furthermore, by comparing our identified sequences with GenBank data, we expanded known geographic ranges of several water mite species. Using extensive GenBank data on mites in Canadian waters, four species were detected to be Holarctic rather than Palaearctic as thought previously (Lebertia obscura, Limnesia undulatoides, Oxus nodigerus and Arrenurus papillator). Four species, Lebertia obscura, Torrenticola brevirostris, Hygrobates limnocrenicus and Unionicola parvipora, were recorded for the first time in Russia. We provide an annotated species checklist reporting the distribution, ecology, bioindiocation potential, and COX1 barcode sequence data along with high-resolution photographs of each DNA voucher. Future ecological and biodiversity studies will benefit from using molecular tools for accurate identification of useful mesofaunal bioindicator organisms, such as water mites.