bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Searching for keystone plant resources in fruit‐frugivore interaction networks across the Neotropics
Authors: Messeder João Vitor S. , Guerra Tadeu J. , Dáttilo Wesley , Silveira Fernando A. O.
Published: May 2020

Identifying keystone plant resources (KPR) is a contentious issue in ecology and conservation. Despite recent advances provided by mutualistic networks, we still lack studies addressing large‐scale identification of keystone plants. We developed a novel quantitative framework for the large‐scale identification of KPR that combines centrality and effects of simulated removals on networks properties. We built a database with 38 fruit–frugivore networks comprising 6,180 pairwise interactions from Neotropical forest and non‐forest ecosystems ranging from sea level to 2,500 m a.s.l.. Effects of random removal simulations and removal of keystone taxa candidates on nestedness, modularity and niche overlap were assessed. Furthermore, we tested whether changes in network descriptors responded to both latitudinal and elevational gradients. From a total of 373 genera on networks, only species in six genera were ranked as keystone candidates. The simulated removal of species in Miconia (Melastomataceae), Cecropia (Urticaceae) and Byrsonima (Malpighiaceae) led to significant changes in nestedness, modularity and niche overlap, suggesting that these plants play important roles in maintaining the structure of Neotropical fruit–frugivore interaction networks, regardless of latitude or elevation. Our results confirm the keystone role of previously recognized taxa, recognize overlooked ones, providing support for their role at a biogeographical scale, and partially challenge taxa traditionally identified as keystone resources for frugivores. Our study has implications for conservation and restoration of Neotropical ecosystems and provides a new framework for large‐scale identification of keystones in other types of ecological networks.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
A meissnerian neurofibroma: Case report of a rare neurofibroma variant
Authors: Sode Titilola , Kunzler Elaine , Uzoma Bianca , McCollough Martha , Hosler Gregory A.
Published: May 2020

Structures resembling Meissner corpuscles have been described in various nerve sheath tumors, including schwannomas and neurofibromas. When present, they are focal or scattered, and rarely a prominent feature of the lesion. Here, we report a case of a 39‐year‐old female who presented with an isolated lesion on her abdomen. Histopathologically, the tumor was almost exclusively composed of Meissner corpuscle‐like structures (pseudo‐meissnerian bodies). At a small edge of the tumor, there were features of a classic neurofibroma, with a mixture of Schwann cells, fibroblast‐like cells, and interspersed mast cells. We propose the term “meissnerian neurofibroma” for this extremely rare variant of neurofibroma.
Giant intracardiac blood cyst of the mitral valve in a pediatric patient: A case report
Authors: Karagözlü Selen , Ramoğlu Mehmet G. , Dikmen Yaman Nur , Eyileten Zeynep , Almus Eda
Published: May 2020

Intracardiac blood cysts are rare congenital malformations most commonly located in the endocardium of semilunar or atrioventricular valves. They are predominantly seen in infants, especially below 2 months of age, and disappear spontaneously in the first 6 months of life making the detection of blood cysts a rare finding in the adult population. Although most patients are asymptomatic, they may occasionally present with obstruction, valvular dysfunction, or embolism. Herein, we present a 2.5‐year‐old female patient, who was successfully treated with surgical excision of an intracardiac blood cyst causing mild‐to‐moderate mitral regurgitation and obstruction.
Speckle tracking for predicting outcomes of balloon pulmonary angioplasty in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Zhang Xinyuan , Guo Dichen , Wang Jianfeng , Gong Juanni , Wu Xiaopeng , Jiang Zhe , Zhong Jiuchang , Lu Xiuzhang , Yang Yuanhua , Li Yidan
Published: May 2020

Background

Right ventricular (RV) function is a prognostic marker of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). We used two‐dimensional (2D) speckle‐tracking echocardiography (STE) to evaluate the therapeutic effects of balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) in CTEPH patients.

Methods

A total of 46 CTEPH patients who underwent 2D STE before and after BPA were enrolled in this retrospective study. The following RV functional parameters were measured: tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), right ventricular fractional area change (RVFAC), RV index of myocardial performance (RIMP), and free wall longitudinal strain (RVFWLS). Satisfactory BPA was defined as mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) <25 mm Hg or improvement in mPAP > 10 mm Hg after BPA. Patients were divided into two groups according to mPAP values: group I had satisfactory BPA outcomes; group Ⅱ had unsatisfactory BPA outcomes. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the optimal cutoff values and the ability of RVFWLS to predict successful BPA outcomes.

Results

After BPA, SPAP measured by echocardiography (SPAPecho) and RIMP decreased, but TAPSE, RVFAC, and RVFWLS increased. Before BPA, group Ⅰ had significantly better RV function than group Ⅱ. Multifactor logistic regression analysis identified RVFWLS as an independent factor associated with satisfactory BPA outcomes. The optimal cutoff value for RVFWLS in predicting satisfactory BPA outcomes was −12.2%.

Conclusions

Balloon pulmonary angioplasty improves RV function in CTEPH patients. RVFWLS is a valuable noninvasive tool with which to assess the treatment effects of BPA. CTEPH patients with lower RVFWLS may have limited benefit from BPA.
Climate change induces multiple risks to boreal forests and forestry in Finland: A literature review
Authors: Venäläinen Ari , Lehtonen Ilari , Laapas Mikko , Ruosteenoja Kimmo , Tikkanen Olli‐Pekka , Viiri Heli , Ikonen Veli‐Pekka , Peltola Heli
Published: May 2020

Climate change induces multiple abiotic and biotic risks to forests and forestry. Risks in different spatial and temporal scales must be considered to ensure preconditions for sustainable multifunctional management of forests for different ecosystem services. For this purpose, the present review article summarizes the most recent findings on major abiotic and biotic risks to boreal forests in Finland under the current and changing climate, with the focus on windstorms, heavy snow loading, drought and forest fires and major insect pests and pathogens of trees. In general, the forest growth is projected to increase mainly in northern Finland. In the south, the growing conditions may become suboptimal, particularly for Norway spruce. Although the wind climate does not change remarkably, wind damage risk will increase especially in the south, because of the shortening of the soil frost period. The risk of snow damage is anticipated to increase in the north and decrease in the south. Increasing drought in summer will boost the risk of large‐scale forest fires. Also, the warmer climate increases the risk of bark beetle outbreaks and the wood decay by Heterobasidion root rot in coniferous forests. The probability of detrimental cascading events, such as those caused by a large‐scale wind damage followed by a widespread bark beetle outbreak, will increase remarkably in the future. Therefore, the simultaneous consideration of the biotic and abiotic risks is essential.
m6A demethylase ALKBH5 promotes proliferation of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma associated with poor prognosis
Authors: Nagaki Yushi , Motoyama Satoru , Yamaguchi Tomokazu , Hoshizaki Midori , Sato Yusuke , Sato Teruki , Koizumi Yukio , Wakita Akiyuki , Kawakita Yuta , Imai Kazuhiro , Nanjo Hiroshi , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Imai Yumiko , Minamiya Yoshihiro , Kuba Keiji
Published: May 2020

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most fatal types of malignant tumors worldwide. Epitranscriptome, such as N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) of mRNA, is an abundant post‐transcriptional mRNA modification and has been recently implicated to play roles in several cancers, whereas the significance of m6A modifications is virtually unknown in ESCC. Analysis of tissue microarray of the tumors in 177 ESCC patients showed that higher expression of m6A demethylase ALKBH5 correlated with poor prognosis and that ALKBH5 was an independent prognostic factor of the survival of patients. There was no correlation between the other demethylase FTO and prognosis. siRNA knockdown of ALKBH5 but not FTO significantly suppressed proliferation and migration of human ESCC cells. ALKBH5 knockdown delayed progression of cell cycle and accumulated the cells to G0/G1 phase. Mechanistically, expression of CDKN1A (p21) was significantly up‐regulated in ALKBH5‐depleted cells, and m6A modification and stability of CDKN1A mRNA were increased by ALKBH5 knockdown. Furthermore, depletion of ALKBH5 substantially suppressed tumor growth of ESCC cells subcutaneously transplanted in BALB/c nude mice. Collectively, we identify ALKBH5 as the first m6A demethylase that accelerates cell cycle progression and promotes cell proliferation of ESCC cells, which is associated with poor prognosis of ESCC patients.
Efficacy and safety of Jessner’s solution peel in comparison with salicylic acid 30% peel in the management of patients with acne vulgaris and postacne hyperpigmentation with skin of color: a randomized, double‐blinded, split‐face, controlled trial
Authors: How Kang N. , Lim Poh Y. , Wan Ahmad Kammal Wan Syazween Lyana , Shamsudin Norashikin
Published: May 2020

Objective

Antibiotics and retinoids have been used for acne vulgaris for decades. Though effective, each has its own drawbacks. Chemical peels have been used for treatment of acne vulgaris with inadequate clinical evidence. We sought to determine the efficacy and safety of Jessner’s solution (JS) in comparison with salicylic acid (SA) 30% in the management of acne vulgaris and postacne hyperpigmentation in patients with colored skin.

Methods

A total of 36 subjects (94.5% Fitzpatick Type IV‐V) were recruited in this randomized double‐blinded, split‐face, controlled trial. Each side of the face was randomly assigned for treatment with either JS or SA. Subjects were treated once fortnightly for a total of three sessions. Lesion counting, Michaelsson acne score (MAS), photographs, and postacne hyperpigmentation index (PAHPI) were used to objectively assess the improvement. Complications were assessed during each visit. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS v22.0. Significance was set at P = 0.05.

Results

At the end of therapy, significant reduction in inflammatory, noninflammatory lesions, MAS, and PAHPI scores (P < 0.001, respectively) were noted in comparison to baseline. Mixed model analysis revealed no significant outcome difference between the two groups. Patients who reported good and very good outcome were 76.4% (JS) and 85.3% (SA). Burning, stinging sensation, and exfoliation were the common complications reported. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation was reported only once in the JS arm.

Conclusion

Both JS and SA were equally effective in the treatment of acne vulgaris and reducing postacne hyperpigmentation in patients with colored skin.
Development of starch‐based peelable coating for edible packaging
Authors: Phinainitisatra Thitarat , Harnkarnsujarit Nathdanai
Published: May 2020

This research characterised properties and stability of starch‐based peelable coating film layers via mould dipping. Different ratios between rice starch (RS) and hydroxypropyl cassava starch (HS) containing agar blends were characterised for fluid rheology and properties of solid films. Layer‐by‐layer mould dipping in starch blend suspensions produced peelable shells. Rheology indicated that formability of thin‐film layer on solid surface subsequently affected integrity of the shells. HS highly adsorbed water which plasticised matrices giving lower relaxation temperature (~10 °C) than RS and caused shrivelling and non‐stable shell structures. RS increased crystallinity and non‐homogeneity of films and reduced network flexibility and light transmission. IR spectra indicated modified hydrophobicity and hydrogen bonding of starch blends which governed water and oxygen permeability. Higher RS ratios significantly increased crystallinity which affected physical, mechanical and barrier properties during storage for three months. Findings indicated that HS provided flexibility and stability while RS improved formability of peeled shells.
Elemental composition and bioaccessibility of three insufficiently studied Azorean macroalgae
Authors: Afonso Cláudia , Matos Joana , Campos Ana M. , Gomes Romina , Delgado Inês , Coelho Inês , Castanheira Isabel , Bandarra Narcisa M. , Cardoso Carlos
Published: May 2020

The elemental composition and bioaccessibility of the Azorean macroalgae Petalonia binghamiae, Osmundea pinnatifida and Halopteris scoparia were studied. H. scoparia had the highest Cr, Mn, Co and Ni contents. Iodine content was also the highest in H. scoparia, 1098 ± 54 mg kg dw−1. Content reductions due to rehydration were in the 75%–90% range. Steaming led to similar reductions with exception of Cr, Mn, Co, Ni and Zn in O. pinnatifida. For P. binghamiae and O. pinnatifida, bioaccessibility percentages varied between elements. Variation due to rehydration and culinary treatment was narrower, particularly for P. binghamiae. Whereas I bioaccessibility was low in O. pinnatifida, 11%–14%, it reached 57%–69% in P. binghamiae. On the basis of bioaccessibility, to meet the I DRI, 2.7 g dried P. binghamiae, 16.9–23.8 g rehydrated P. binghamiae and 12.7 g steamed P. binghamiae everyday are required. For O. pinnatifida, 5.0 g, 19.0–33.3 g and 12.9 g of dried, rehydrated and steamed red seaweed, respectively, are needed.
Changement technologique et emploi au Brésil, en Colombie et au Mexique: quels sont les travailleurs les plus affectés?
Authors: ARIZA John , RAYMOND BARA Josep Lluís
Published: May 2020

L'analyse, axée sur les tâches, de la structure de l'emploi urbain du Brésil, de la Colombie et du Mexique montre que celui‐ci a nettement diminué entre 2002 et 2015 dans des professions semi‐qualifiées et augmenté dans les professions faiblement et fortement qualifiées. La décomposition des résultats suggère que le déclin de l'emploi des secrétaires et des sténographes s'explique entièrement par les changements intrabranche (hypothèse de «routinisation»), tandis que dans la conduite des machines et l'artisanat l'explication tient aux changements interbranches. Sous l'angle sociodémographique, le changement technologique affecte négativement les femmes, mais il profite aux travailleurs plus jeunes et plus instruits.
Validation of a wrist‐type home nocturnal blood pressure monitor in the sitting and supine position according to the ANSI/AAMI/ISO81060‐2:2013 guidelines: Omron HEM‐9601T
Authors: Kuwabara Mitsuo , Harada Kanako , Hishiki Yukiko , Ohkubo Takayoshi , Kario Kazuomi , Imai Yutaka
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to validate the accuracy of the Omron HEM‐9601T, an automatic wrist‐type device for self‐blood pressure (BP) measurement with a timer function for automatic measurement of nocturnal BP, in the sitting position according to the American National Standards Institute/Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation/International Organization for Standardization (ANSI/AAMI/ISO) 81060‐2:2013 guidelines, and to assess its performance in the supine position by applying the same protocol as conducted in the sitting position. The mean differences between the reference BPs and HEM‐9601T readings were 1.2 ± 6.9/1.1 ± 5.5 mmHg, 2.2 ± 6.5/1.8 ± 5.7 mmHg, 0.1 ± 6.6/1.5 ± 6.2 mmHg, and −0.8 ± 7.2/0.5 ± 6.4 mmHg for systolic BP/diastolic BP for criterion 1 in the sitting position, supine with sideways palm position, supine with upward palm position, and supine with downward palm position, respectively. In addition, the mean differences and their standard deviations for systolic BP and diastolic BP calculated according to criterion 2 in the ANSI/AAMI/ISO 81060‐2:2013 guidelines were acceptable in all four positions. In conclusion, the Omron HEM‐9601T fulfilled the validation criteria of the ANSI/AAMI/ISO81060‐2:2013 guidelines when used in the sitting position with the wrist at heart level, and its accuracy in the supine position was acceptable and roughly equivalent to that in the sitting position. The wrist‐type home BP monitor could be a more suitable tool for repeated nocturnal BP measurements at home than upper‐arm devices, and could improve the reliability of diagnosis and management of nocturnal hypertension.
Do callous–unemotional traits moderate the effects of the juvenile justice system on later offending behavior?
Authors: Robertson Emily L. , Frick Paul J. , Ray James V. , Thornton Laura C. , Wall Myers Tina D. , Steinberg Laurence , Cauffman Elizabeth
Published: May 2020

Background

Research suggests that callous–unemotional (CU) traits, a recent addition to psychiatric classification of serious conduct problems, may moderate the influence of a number of contextual factors (e.g., parenting, deviant peer influence) on an adolescent’s adjustment. The current study sought to replicate past research showing that formal processing through the juvenile justice system increases recidivism and tested the novel hypothesis that CU traits would moderate the relationship between processing decision and future antisocial behavior.

Methods

A diverse sample of first‐time male offenders (N = 1,216; M age = 15.12, SD = 1.29) in three regions of the United States was assessed within 6 weeks of their first arrest and then at 6‐month intervals for 36 months.

Results

Compared to those who were informally processed (i.e., diverted), adolescents formally processed through the court were at a higher risk of self‐reported offending and rearrests as measured by official records, after controlling for preexisting risk factors. However, baseline CU traits moderated this association such that those with high CU traits reported offending at high rates across the subsequent three years regardless of how the juvenile justice system processed their case.

Conclusions

CU traits are important to psychiatric classification for designating a subgroup of antisocial youth who may respond differently to contextual influences, including being less susceptible to the negative effects of juvenile justice system involvement. The public health significance of this moderation is significant by suggesting that previous estimates of the harmful impact of formal processing by the juvenile justice system may underestimate its impact, given that the majority of arrested adolescents have normative levels of CU traits.
Do we need the third dimension? Quantifying the effect of the z‐axis in 3D geometric morphometrics based on sailfin silversides (Telmatherinidae)
Authors: Wasiljew Benjamin D. , Pfaender Jobst , Wipfler Benjamin , Utama Ilham Vemandra , Herder Fabian
Published: May 2020

This study investigated the impact of the third dimension in geometric morphometrics (GM) using sailfin silversides (Telmatherinidae) from the Malili Lakes of Sulawesi (Indonesia). The three morphospecies of the monophyletic “roundfin” radiation are laterally compressed and vary in shape traits. The results of 2D and 3D GM were compared and quantified to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both methods for closely related species and their sexes. This approach focused on the head because it is far more complex and three‐dimensionally structured than the trunk or the caudal region. The results revealed no significant benefit concerning repeatability and measurement error in 3D GM compared to 2D GM. The z‐axis contributed substantially to the variance of the 3D data set but was irrelevant for discrimination of species and sexes in the approach. Limited gain in information was contrasted by substantially higher effort for 3D compared to the 2D analyses. The study concluded that 2D GM is the more efficient shape analysis approach for discriminating roundfins. Broader studies are needed to test which of the two methods is more efficient in distinguishing laterally compressed fishes in general. For future studies, due to the high investment required, this study recommends carefully evaluating the necessity of 3D GM. If in doubt, this study suggests testing for congruence between 2D and 3D GM with a subsample and consequently applying 2D GM in the case of high congruence.
Sub‐lethal temperature thresholds indicate acclimation and physiological limits in brook trout Salvelinus fontinalis
Authors: Morrison Scott M. , Mackey Theresa E. , Durhack Travis , Jeffrey Jennifer D. , Wiens Lilian M. , Mochnacz Neil J. , Hasler Caleb T. , Enders Eva C. , Treberg Jason R. , Jeffries Ken M.
Published: May 2020

The upper thermal tolerance of brook trout Salvelinus fontinalis was estimated using critical thermal maxima (CTmax) experiments on fish acclimated to temperatures that span the species' thermal range (5–25°C). The CTmax increased with acclimation temperature but plateaued in fish acclimated to 20, 23 and 25°C. Plasma lactate was highest, and the hepato‐somatic index (IH) was lowest at 23 and 25°C, which suggests additional metabolic costs at those acclimation temperatures. The results suggest that there is a sub‐lethal threshold between 20 and 23°C, beyond which the fish experience reduced physiological performance.
Factors related to removable denture use in independent older people: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hama Yohei , Kubota Chieko , Moriya Shingo , Onda Rie , Watanabe Yutaka , Minakuchi Shunsuke
Published: May 2020

Background

Denture use for recovery of major tooth loss can reduce the need for care, and thus, it is important for dentists to identify the types of patients who use removable dentures.

Objective

To identify factors associated with removable denture use in independent older Japanese people.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study investigated the oral condition; demographics; lifestyle; dental visit behaviour; and higher‐level functional capacity, as assessed using the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology index of competence (TMIG index), of independent older people aged 65‐74 years. Participants were divided into four groups based on sex and condition of the posterior occluding pairs (POPs). Multivariate‐adjusted logistic regression analyses were performed for each group, with denture use or non‐use as the dependent variable and the other items as independent variables.

Results

Denture use or non‐use was significantly associated with only dental consultation behaviour (regular dental visits and time since the last dental visit) in all groups. Subsequent analyses excluding dental consultation behaviour demonstrated that denture use or non‐use was significantly associated with educational background in female participants with decreased POPs, with the type of household in male participants with lost POPs and with the TMIG index (social role) in female participants with lost POPs.

Conclusions

Denture use was associated with dental consultation behaviour. We revealed factors related to denture use or non‐use in females with decreased POPs and both males and females with lost POPs.
Bicavitary eosinophilic effusion in a dog with coccidioidomycosis
Authors: Piech Tara L. , Jaffey Jared A. , Hostnik Eric T. , White Mary E.
Published: May 2020

This is a case of coccidioidomycosis in a dog, examined for vomiting and labored breathing. Physical examination and thoracic and abdominal imaging revealed pleural and peritoneal effusions, both of which exhibited neutrophilic inflammation with a substantial eosinophilic component. The dog had positive IgM and IgG coccidioidomycosis titers at initial evaluation. The eosinophilic component of the inflammation was attributed to coccidioidomycosis. The dog underwent approximately 6 months of fluconazole treatment, with both effusions and clinical signs improving after 6 weeks. Three months after cessation of antifungal treatment, the dog developed a mid‐diaphyseal lytic and proliferative lesion in the left radius caused byCoccidioidesspp. This case illustrates the importance of consideration of coccidioidomycosis when an eosinophilic cavitary effusion is present in dogs that live in or have traveled to endemic regions.
Re‐hospitalization after pediatric kidney transplant: A single‐center study
Authors: Verghese Priya S. , Chinnakotla Srinath , Berglund Danielle , Matas Arthur J. , Chavers Blanche
Published: May 2020

Background

Little data exist on re‐hospitalization rates in pediatric kidney recipients (KTx) particularly with the evolution of transplant immunosuppression.

Methods

In a single‐center, retrospective study of pediatric KTx between 2006 and 2016, we assessed re‐hospitalization after KTx admission, stratified by whether the re‐admit was early (<30 days post‐KTx discharge) or late (>30 days), and compared two different immunosuppression eras (one with and one without steroids).

Results

Of 197 KTx, 156 (79%) patients were re‐hospitalized in 1st year, 85 (56%) within 30 days of discharge (total 490 1st year re‐hospitalizations). Younger age was associated with early and late re‐hospitalizations. African American race was associated with early re‐hospitalizations. Of the 123 and 74 discharged on steroid‐avoidance (maintenance immunosuppression included MMF in 95%; FK in 50%; CSA in 50%) and steroid‐inclusive (AZA in 66%; MMF in 34%; FK in 30%; CSA in 70%), re‐hospitalization rates, timing post‐transplant, length, and number were not significantly different (P .38; .1; .56; .11). Admission diagnoses analysis demonstrated that steroid‐avoidance recipients had anemia/leucopenia/thrombocytopenia, significantly more often, as one of their admission diagnoses (16% vs 4%; P < .001) and had a rejection diagnosis significantly less often (6% vs 18%; P < .001). Infection diagnoses were not statistically different between groups. Re‐hospitalization, early or late, did not predict worse graft/ patient survival but predicted further hospitalizations.

Conclusions

Re‐hospitalization is common after pediatric transplant discharge and predicts further hospitalization regardless of discharge on or off steroids.
PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTORs in the moss Physcomitrella patens regulate light‐controlled gene expression
Authors: Xu Tengfei , Yuan Jinhong , Hiltbrunner Andreas
Published: May 2020

Phytochromes are red and far‐red light receptors in plants that control growth and development in response to changes in the environment. Light‐activated phytochromes enter the nucleus and act on a set of downstream signalling components to regulate gene expression. PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTORs (PIFs) belong to the basic helix–loop–helix family of transcription factors and directly bind to light‐activated phytochromes. Potential homologues of PIFs have been identified in ferns, bryophytes and streptophyte algae, and it has been shown that the potential PIF homologues from Physcomitrella patens, PIF1 to PIF4, have PIF function when expressed in Arabidopsis. However, their function in Physcomitrella is still unknown. Seed plant PIFs bind to G‐box‐containing promoters and, therefore, we searched the Physcomitrella genome for genes that contain G‐boxes in their promoter. Here, we show that Physcomitrella PIFs activate these promoters in a G‐box‐dependent manner, suggesting that they could be direct PIF targets. Furthermore, we generated Physcomitrella pif1, pif2, pif3 and pif4 knock out mutant lines and quantified the expression of potential PIF direct target genes. The expression of these genes was generally reduced in pif mutants compared to the wildtype, but for several genes, the relative induction upon a short light treatment was higher in pif mutants than the wildtype. In contrast, expression of these genes was strongly repressed in continuous light, and pif mutants showed partial downregulation of these genes in the dark. Thus, the overall function of PIFs in light‐regulated gene expression might be an ancient property of PIFs.
Electrogastrography for psychophysiological research: Practical considerations, analysis pipeline, and normative data in a large sample
Authors: Wolpert Nicolai , Rebollo Ignacio , Tallon‐Baudry Catherine
Published: May 2020

Electrogastrography (EGG) is the noninvasive electrophysiological technique used to record gastric electrical activity by means of cutaneous electrodes placed on the abdomen. EGG has been so far mostly used in clinical studies in gastroenterology, but it represents an attractive method to study brain‐viscera interactions in psychophysiology. Compared to the literature on electrocardiography for instance, where practical recommendations and normative data are abundant, the literature on EGG in humans remains scarce. The aim of this article is threefold. First, we review the existing literature on the physiological basis of the EGG, pathways of brain‐stomach interactions, and experimental findings in the cognitive neuroscience and psychophysiology literature. We then describe practical issues faced when recording the EGG in young healthy participants, from data acquisition to data analysis, and propose a semi‐automated analysis pipeline together with associated MATLAB code. The analysis pipeline aims at identifying a regular rhythm that can be safely attributed to the stomach, through multiple steps. Finally, we apply these recording and analysis procedures in a large sample (N = 117) of healthy young adult male and female participants in a moderate (<5 hr) to prolonged (>10 hr) fasting state to establish the normative distribution of several EGG parameters. Our results are overall congruent with the clinical gastroenterology literature, but suggest using an electrode coverage extending to lower abdominal locations than current clinical guidelines. Our results indicate a marginal difference in EGG peak frequency between male and female participants, and that the gastric rhythm becomes more irregular after prolonged fasting.
Modifications of emergency dental clinic protocols to combat COVID‐19 transmission
Authors: Long Robert Hollinshead , Ward Tyrous David , Pruett Michael Edward , Coleman John Finklea , Plaisance Marc Charles
Published: May 2020

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, incidence rates for dental diseases will continue unabated. However, the intent to prevent the spread of this lethal respiratory disease will likely lead to reduced treatment access due to restrictions on population movements. These changes have the potential to increase dental‐related emergency department visits and subsequently contribute to greater viral transmission. Moreover, dentists experience unique challenges with preventing transmission due to frequent aerosol‐producing procedures. This paper presents reviews and protocols implemented by directors and residents at the Dental College of Georgia to manage a dental emergency clinic during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The methods presented include committee‐based prioritization of dental patients, a multilayered screening process, team rotations with social and temporal spacing, and modified treatment room protocols. These efforts aid in the reduction of viral transmission, conservation of personal protective equipment, and expand provider availability. These protocols transcend a university and hospital‐based models and are applicable to private and corporate models.
Implementation of high‐throughput non‐invasive prenatal testing for fetal RHD genotype testing in England: Results of a cross‐sectional survey of maternity units and expert interviews
Authors: Ryczek Edyta , White Judith , Carolan‐Rees Grace
Published: May 2020

Background

Previously, routine antenatal anti‐D prophylaxis (RAADP) was administered to all RhD‐negative mothers to reduce the risk of sensitisation in the UK's National Health Service (NHS). If the baby is RhD‐negative, RAADP is not required. In 2016, the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommended non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for fetal RHD genotype as a cost‐effective option to guide RAADP.

Objectives

To evaluate the implementation of high‐throughput NIPT for fetal RHD genotype in maternity units in England by addressing research recommendations from the NICE. These were to reduce uncertainty around the resource use and cost of staff training, management of samples and results and record‐keeping, as well as resultant changes to antenatal or post‐partum care and performance of NIPT.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was developed and sent to clinicians at 39 English NHS Trusts in May 2018. Qualitative interviews with seven individuals were conducted to explore missing or contraindicatory data. Qualitative findings were supplemented with NIPT test results (April 2017 to February 2019) from English hospitals.

Results

Staff reported that training took up to 30 minutes. There were no extra costs associated with sample management or additional appointments. Extra time required for record‐keeping and management of test results was balanced later in the patient pathway. The antenatal pathway was not changed in the Trusts surveyed. The survey revealed that four post‐partum scenarios were being used within English NHS Trusts. The frequency of inconclusive NIPT results was 4.3%.

Conclusion

NIPT for fetal RHD genotype can be implemented without consuming substantial extra resources through incorporation into an existing patient pathway.
Editors’ Review and Introduction: Levels of Explanation in Cognitive Science: From Molecules to Culture
Authors: Colombo Matteo , Knauff Markus
Published: May 2020

Cognitive science began as a multidisciplinary endeavor to understand how the mind works. Since the beginning, cognitive scientists have been asking questions about the right methodologies and levels of explanation to pursue this goal, and make cognitive science a coherent science of the mind. Key questions include: Is there a privileged level of explanation in cognitive science? How do different levels of explanation fit together, or relate to one another? How should explanations at one level inform or constrain explanations at some other level? Can the different approaches to the mind, brain, and culture be unified? The aim of this issue of topiCS is to provide a platform for discussing different answers to such questions and to facilitate a better understanding between the different strands of thinking about the right levels of explanation in cognitive science.
A high activity zinc transporter OsZIP9 mediates zinc uptake in rice
Authors: Yang Meng , Li Yutong , Liu Zonghao , Tian Jingjing , Liang Limin , Qiu Yu , Wang Guangyuan , Du Qingqing , Cheng Deng , Cai Hongmei , Shi Lei , Xu Fangsen , Lian Xingming
Published: May 2020

Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient for most organisms including humans, and Zn deficiency is widespread in human populations, particularly in underdeveloped regions. Cereals such as rice (Oryza sativa) are the major dietary source of Zn for most people. However, the molecular mechanism underlying Zn uptake in rice is still not fully understood. Here, we report that a member of the ZIP (ZRT, IRT‐like protein) family, OsZIP9, contributes to Zn uptake in rice. It was expressed in the epidermal and exodermal cells of lateral roots, localized in the plasma membrane and induced during Zn deficiency. Yeast‐expressed OsZIP9 showed much higher Zn influx transport activity than other rice ZIP proteins in a wide range of Zn concentrations. OsZIP9 knockout rice plants showed a significant reduction in growth at low Zn concentrations, but could be rescued by a high Zn supply. Compared with the wild type, accumulation of Zn in root, shoot and grain was much lower in knockout lines, particularly with a low supply of Zn under both hydroponic and paddy soil conditions. OsZIP9 also showed Co uptake activity. Natural variation of OsZIP9 expression level is highly associated with Zn content in milled grain among rice varieties in the germplasm collection. Taken together, these results show that OsZIP9 is an important influx transporter responsible for the take up of Zn and Co from external media into root cells.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Smith Robert
Published: May 2020

Journal of Education and Training Studies (JETS) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether JETS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 8, Number 6 Donna Smith, The Open University, UKFathia Lahwal, Elmergib University, LibyaGianpiero Greco, University of Study of Bari, ItalyHossein Chaharbashloo, Kharazmi University, IranJohn Cowan, Edinburgh Napier University, UKJohn Mark Asio, Gordon College, PhilippinesKun-Hsi Liao, Taiwan Shoufu University, TaiwanLucy Lugo Mawang, Kenyatta University, KenyaMaria Rosa M. Prado, Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe, BrazilMassimiliano Barattucci, Ecampus University, ItalyMichael Baron, University of Melbourne, AustraliaMichael Wall, Independent Researcher in Music and Music Education, USAMuhammad Haris Effendi-Hasibuan, Universitas Jambi, IndonesiaMustafa Çakır, Marmara University, TurkeyNiveen M. Zayed, MENA College of Management, JordanRichard H. Martin, Mercer University, USARichard Penny, University of Washington Bothell, USASaadet Korucu Kis, Necmettin Erbakan University, TurkeySadia Batool, Preston University Islamabad, PakistanSamah El-Sakka, Suez University, EgyptThada Jantakoon, Rajabhat Maha Sarakham University, ThailandVeronica Velasco Gonzalez, University of Valladolid, Spain Robert SmithEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Journal of Education and Training StudiesRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAE-mail 1: jets@redfame.comE-mail 2: jets@redfame.orgURL: http://jets.redfame.com
Nitrate attenuates high fat diet‐induced glucose intolerance in association with reduced epididymal adipose tissue inflammation and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species emission
Authors: Brunetta Henver S. , Politis‐Barber Valerie , Petrick Heather L. , Dennis Kaitlyn M. J. H. , Kirsh Aleah J. , Barbeau Pierre‐Andre , Nunes Everson A. , Holloway Graham P.
Published: May 2020

Key points

Dietary nitrate is a prominent therapeutic strategy to mitigate some metabolic deleterious effects related to obesity.

Mitochondrial dysfunction is causally linked to adipose tissue inflammation and insulin resistance.

Whole‐body glucose tolerance is prevented by nitrate independent of body weight and energy expenditure.

Dietary nitrate reduces epididymal adipose tissue inflammation and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species emission while preserving insulin signalling.

Metabolic beneficial effects of nitrate consumption are associated with improvements in mitochondrial redox balance in hypertrophic adipose tissue.

Evidence has accumulated to indicate that dietary nitrate alters energy expenditure and the metabolic derangements associated with a high fat diet (HFD), but the mechanism(s) of action remain incompletely elucidated. Therefore, we aimed to determine if dietary nitrate (4 mm sodium nitrate via drinking water) could prevent HFD‐mediated glucose intolerance in association with improved mitochondrial bioenergetics within both white (WAT) and brown (BAT) adipose tissue in mice. HFD feeding caused glucose intolerance (P < 0.05) and increased body weight. As a result of higher body weight, energy expenditure increased proportionally. HFD‐fed mice displayed greater mitochondrial uncoupling and a twofold increase in uncoupling protein 1 content within BAT. Within epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT), HFD increased cell size (i.e. hypertrophy), mitochondrial H2O2 emission, oxidative stress, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase phosphorylation and leucocyte infiltration, and induced insulin resistance. Remarkably, dietary nitrate consumption attenuated and/or mitigated all these responses, including rendering mitochondria more coupled within BAT, and normalizing mitochondrial H2O2 emission and insulin‐mediated Akt‐Thr308 phosphorylation within eWAT. Intriguingly, the positive effects of dietary nitrate appear to be independent of eWAT mitochondrial respiratory capacity and content. Altogether, these data suggest that dietary nitrate attenuates the development of HFD‐induced insulin resistance in association with attenuating WAT inflammation and redox balance, independent of changes in either WAT or BAT mitochondrial respiratory capacity/content.
Cultural Competence in Athletic Training Education Programs: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Sears Megan N. , Moffit Dani M. , Lopez Rebecca M.
Published: May 2020

Clinical Question: Do cultural-competence-based educational interventions improve the cultural competence of athletic training students, based on the constructs of the Campinha-Bacote model? Clinical Bottom Line: Athletic training programs can improve athletic training students’ cultural awareness, knowledge, skill, encounters, and desire by incorporating cultural-competence-based independent readings, lecture presentations, in-class discussions, and self-awareness activities.
Truncation of PA-X Contributes to Virulence and Transmission of H3N8 and H3N2 Canine Influenza Viruses in Dogs
Authors: Liu Litao , Song Shikai , Shen Ye , Ma Chao , Wang Tong , Tong Qi , Sun Honglei , Pu Juan , Iqbal Munir , Liu Jinhua , Sun Yipeng
Published: May 2020

Epidemics of equine-origin H3N8 and avian-origin H3N2 influenza viruses in canine populations are examples of successful cross-species transmission of influenza A viruses. Genetic analysis showed that the PA-X genes of equine H3N8 or avian H3N2 influenza viruses were full-length, with X-ORFs encoding 61 amino acids; however, those of equine-origin H3N8 or avian-origin H3N2 CIVs were truncated, suggesting that PA-X truncation occurred after transmission to dogs. In this study, we extended the PA-X genes of H3N8 and H3N2 CIVs and compared the biological characteristics of CIVs bearing different lengths of PA-X. We demonstrated that for both H3N8 and H3N2 viruses, truncation of PA-X increased virus yields in MDCK cells and enhanced viral replication, pathogenicity, and transmission in dogs. These results might reflect enhanced suppression of host gene expression and upregulation of genes related to inflammatory responses. Collectively, our data partially explain the conservation of truncated PA-X in CIVs.
A Genetically Engineered Rotavirus NSP2 Phosphorylation Mutant Impaired in Viroplasm Formation and Replication Shows an Early Interaction between vNSP2 and Cellular Lipid Droplets
Authors: Criglar Jeanette M. , Crawford Sue E. , Zhao Boyang , Smith Hunter G. , Stossi Fabio , Estes Mary K.
Published: May 2020

Reverse genetics was used to generate a recombinant rotavirus with a single phosphomimetic mutation in nonstructural protein 2 (NSP2 S313D) that exhibits delayed viroplasm formation, delayed replication, and an interfering phenotype during coinfection with wild-type rotavirus, indicating the importance of this amino acid during virus replication. Exploiting the delay in viroplasm assembly, we found that viroplasm-associated NSP2 colocalizes with rotavirus-induced lipid droplets prior to the accumulation of other rotavirus proteins that are required for viroplasm formation and that NSP5 hyperphosphorylation is required for viroplasm assembly. These data suggest that NSP2 phospho-S313 is sufficient for interaction with lipid droplets and may be the virus factor that induces lipid droplet biogenesis in rotavirus-infected cells. Lipid droplets are cellular organelles critical for the replication of many viral and bacterial pathogens, and thus, understanding the mechanism of NSP2-mediated viroplasm/lipid droplet initiation and interaction will lead to new insights into this important host-pathogen interaction.
Hadaka Virus 1: a Capsidless Eleven-Segmented Positive-Sense Single-Stranded RNA Virus from a Phytopathogenic Fungus, Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Sato Yukiyo , Shamsi Wajeeha , Jamal Atif , Bhatti Muhammad Faraz , Kondo Hideki , Suzuki Nobuhiro
Published: May 2020

Fungi collectively host various RNA viruses. Examples include encapsidated double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) viruses with diverse numbers of genomic segments (from 1 to 12) and capsidless viruses with nonsegmented (+)RNA genomes. Recently, viruses with unusual intermediate features of an infectious entity between encapsidated dsRNA viruses and capsidless (+)RNA viruses were found. They are called polymycoviruses, which typically have four to eight dsRNA genomic segments associated with one of the virus-encoded proteins and are phylogenetically distantly related to animal (+)RNA caliciviruses. Here, we identified a novel virus phylogenetically related to polymycoviruses, from the phytopathogenic fungus
Fusarium oxysporum
. The virus, termed Hadaka virus 1 (HadV1), has 11 (+)RNA genomic segments, the largest number in known (+)RNA viruses. Nevertheless, HadV1 lacked a typical structural protein of polymycoviruses and was not pelleted by standard ultracentrifugation, implying an unusual capsidless nature of HadV1. This study reveals a potential novel lifestyle of multisegmented RNA viruses.
Interactions of Symbiotic Partners Drive the Development of a Complex Biogeography in the Squid-Vibrio Symbiosis
Authors: Essock-Burns Tara , Bongrand Clotilde , Goldman William E. , Ruby Edward G. , McFall-Ngai Margaret J.
Published: May 2020

The complexity, inaccessibility, and time scales of initial colonization of most animal microbiomes present challenges for the characterization of how the bacterial symbionts influence the form and function of tissues in the minutes to hours following the initial interaction of the partners. Here, we use the naturally occurring binary squid-vibrio association to explore this phenomenon. Imaging of the spatiotemporal landscape of this symbiosis during its onset provides a window into the impact of differences in both host-tissue maturation and symbiont strain phenotypes on the establishment of a dynamically stable symbiotic system. These data provide evidence that the symbionts shape the host-tissue landscape and that tissue maturation impacts the influence of strain-level differences on the daily rhythms of the symbiosis, the competitiveness for colonization, and antibiotic sensitivity.
Molecular Insight into TdfH-Mediated Zinc Piracy from Human Calprotectin by Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Kammerman Michael T. , Bera Aloke , Wu Runrun , Harrison Simone A. , Maxwell C. Noel , Lundquist Karl , Noinaj Nicholas , Chazin Walter J. , Cornelissen Cynthia Nau
Published: May 2020

The dramatic rise in antimicrobial resistance among
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
isolates over the last few decades, paired with dwindling treatment options and the lack of a protective vaccine, has prompted increased interest in identifying new bacterial targets for the treatment and, ideally, prevention of gonococcal disease. TonB-dependent transporters are a conserved set of proteins that serve crucial functions for bacterial survival within the host. In this study, binding between the gonococcal transporter, TdfH, and calprotectin was determined to be of high affinity and host restricted. The current study identified a preferential TdfH interaction at the calprotectin dimer interface. An antigonococcal therapeutic could potentially block this site on calprotectin, interrupting Zn uptake by
N. gonorrhoeae
and thereby prohibiting continued bacterial growth. We describe protein-protein interactions between TdfH and calprotectin, and our findings provide the building blocks for future therapeutic or prophylactic targets.
Supplemental Material: Geological alteration of organic macromolecules by irradiation: Implication for organic matter occurrence on Mars
Authors: Yang Shengyu
Published: May 2020

Methods, supplemental Figures S1 and S2, and supplemental Tables S1 and S2.
Supplemental Material: Redox state of southern Tibetan upper mantle and ultrapotassic magmas
Authors: Li Weikai , Yang Zhiming
Published: May 2020

Methods, Tables S1–S7, and Figures S1–S8