bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Box‐Profile’ Ion Implants as Geochemical Reference Materials for Electron Probe Microanalysis and Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Wu Haosheng , Böttger Roman , Couffignal Frédéric , Gutzmer Jens , Krause Joachim , Munnik Frans , Renno Axel D. , Hübner René , Wiedenbeck Michael , Ziegenrücker René
Published: June 2019

Although electron probe microanalysis and secondary ion mass spectrometry are widely used analytical techniques for geochemical and mineralogical applications, metrologically rigorous quantification remains a major challenge for these methods. Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) in particular is a matrix‐sensitive method, and the use of matrix‐matched reference materials (RMs) is essential to avoid significant analytical bias. A major problem is that the number of available RMs for SIMS is extremely small compared with the needs of analysts. One approach for the production of matrix‐specific RMs is the use of high‐energy ion implantation that introduces a known amount of a selected isotope into a material. We chose the more elaborate way of implanting a so‐called ‘box‐profile’ to generate a quasi‐homogeneous concentration of the implanted isotope in three dimensions, which allows RMs not only to be used for ion beam analysis but also makes them suitable for EPMA. For proof of concept, we used the thoroughly studied mineralogically and chemically ‘simple’ SiO2 system. We implanted either 47Ti or 48Ti into synthetic, ultra‐high‐purity silica glass. Several ‘box‐profiles’ with mass fractions between 10 and 1000 μg g−1 Ti and maximum depths of homogeneous Ti distribution between 200 nm and 3 μm were produced at the Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials Research of Helmholtz‐Zentrum Dresden‐Rossendorf. Multiple implantation steps using varying ion energies and ion doses were simulated with Stopping and Range of Ions in Matter (SRIM) software, optimising for the target concentrations, implantation depths and technical limits of the implanter. We characterised several implant test samples having different concentrations and maximum implantation depths by means of SIMS and other analytical techniques. The results show that the implant samples are suitable for use as reference materials for SIMS measurements. The multi‐energy ion implantation technique also appears to be a promising procedure for the production of EPMA‐suitable reference materials.
The transnational lives and third space subjectivities of British Nigerian girls
Authors: KEA PAMELA JENNIFER
Published: June 2019

Drawing on ethnographic research conducted in 2012 on British Nigerian young women who have gone to boarding school in Nigeria and returned to attend university in the UK, I use the concept of third space as a heuristic device for understanding their transnational subjectivities and practices. I argue that, for some, this third space is a transgressive one in which they can craft alternative subjectivities and narratives about African culture and political economy. Applying insights from decolonial theory, I seek to build on the transgressive nature of this third space. In positioning themselves variously as Londoners, Nigerians, dual and post‐nationals, they express key features of contemporary transnational European subjectivities. Yet, parental expectations that they marry Nigerians and members of the Nigerian diaspora serve to reproduce the racial distinctions and nationalist rhetoric of colonial modernity that their third space subjectivities contest.
Optimal timing of influenza vaccine during pregnancy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cuningham Will , Geard Nicholas , Fielding James E. , Braat Sabine , Madhi Shabir A. , Nunes Marta C. , Christian Lisa M. , Lin Shin‐Yu , Lee Chien‐Nan , Yamaguchi Koushi , Bisgaard Hans , Chawes Bo , Chao An‐Shine , Blanchard‐Rohner Geraldine , Schlaudecker Elizabeth P. , Fisher Barbra M. , McVernon Jodie , Moss Robert
Published: June 2019

Background

Pregnant women have an elevated risk of illness and hospitalisation from influenza. Pregnant women are recommended to be prioritised for influenza vaccination during any stage of pregnancy. The risk of seasonal influenza varies substantially throughout the year in temperate climates; however, there is limited knowledge of how vaccination timing during pregnancy impacts the benefits received by the mother and foetus.

Objectives

To compare antenatal vaccination timing with regard to influenza vaccine immunogenicity during pregnancy and transplacental transfer to their newborns.

Methods

Studies were eligible for inclusion if immunogenicity to influenza vaccine was evaluated in women stratified by trimester of pregnancy. Haemagglutination inhibition (HI) titres, stratified by trimester of vaccination, had to be measured at either pre‐vaccination and within one month post‐vaccination, post‐vaccination and at delivery in the mother, or in cord/newborn blood. Authors searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and EMBASE databases from inception until June 2016 and authors of identified studies were contacted for additional data. Extracted data were tabulated and summarised via random‐effect meta‐analyses and qualitative methods.

Results

Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta‐analyses found that compared with women vaccinated in an earlier trimester, those vaccinated in a later trimester had a greater fold increase in HI titres (1.33‐ to 1.96‐fold) and higher HI titres in cord/newborn blood (1.21‐ to 1.64‐fold).

Conclusions

This review provides comparative analysis of the effect of vaccination timing on maternal immunogenicity and protection of the infant that is informative and relevant to current vaccine scheduling for pregnant women.
Reactivity of industrial wastes as measured through ICP‐OES: A case study on siliceous Indian biomass ash
Authors: Uvegi Hugo , Chaunsali Piyush , Traynor Brian , Olivetti Elsa
Published: June 2019

An untapped source of amorphous SiO2, industrially generated Indian biomass ash (SA)—90% amorphous, with composition of ~60% SiO2 and ~20% unburnt carbon—can be used to produce cementitious and alkali‐activated binders. This study reports dissolution of amorphous Si from SA in 0.5 mol/L and 1 mol/L aqueous NaOH, with and without added Ca(OH)2, at SA:Ca(OH)2 wt% ratios of 100:0, 87.5:12.5, and 82.5:17.5. Monitoring of elemental dissolution and subsequent/simultaneous product uptake by ICP‐OES offers an effective process for evaluating utility of industrial wastes in binder‐based systems. After 28 days in solution, up to 68% of total Si is dissolved from SA in 1 mol/L NaOH, with values as much as 38% lower in the presence of Ca(OH)2, due to the formation of tobermorite‐like C‐S‐H. FTIR, 29Si MAS‐NMR, and XRD are used to characterize solid reaction products and observe reaction progress. Product chemistries calculated from ICP‐OES results and verified by selective dissolution in EDTA/NaOH—namely, Ca/Si of 0.6‐1 and Na adsorption of 1‐2 mmol/g—are found to be consistent with those indicated by aforementioned techniques. This indicates the efficacy of ICP‐OES in estimating product chemistry via such a methodology.
Niche models do not predict experimental demography but both suggest dispersal limitation across the northern range limit of the scarlet monkeyflower (Erythranthe cardinalis)
Authors: Bayly Matthew J. , Angert Amy L.
Published: June 2019

Aim

Geographical ranges largely reflect the projection of species’ environmental niches onto the landscape, but dispersal limitation can cause ranges to fall short of niche limits. Understanding the prevalence of niche and dispersal limitation is a fundamental problem in ecology and biogeography, and it is relevant in predicting climate‐driven range shifts. Dispersal limitation could also cause widely used ecological niche models (ENM), which relate records of occurrence to environmental predictors, to underestimate properties of the ecological niche. Using a combination of experimental transplants and ENM, we tested for (a) dispersal and niche limitation across a species’ range boundary and (b) associations between ENM predictions and population performance.

Location

Oregon, USA.

Taxon

Scarlet monkeyflower (Erythranthe cardinalis).

Methods

We created experimental populations within and beyond the northern range edge and used integral projection models (IPM) to infer potential population growth trajectories. We also built two classes of ecological niche models (ENM), one using climatic predictors and the other using fine‐scale stream habitat variables, to estimate habitat suitability across the northern range edge. Finally, we tested whether higher ENM suitability scores predict greater demographic performance.

Results

Consistent with dispersal limitation, experimental populations beyond the range were projected to persist or spread in three of four sites (compared to two of four sites within the range) and stream habitat ENM projected abundant suitable stream microhabitat within the species’ thermal envelope beyond the range edge. In contrast, climatic ENM suggested decreasing habitat suitability and availability at the northern range edge. Unexpectedly, higher climatic ENM scores were associated with negative population growth rates, while higher stream habitat ENM scores were unrelated to population growth.

Main conclusions

The northern range edge falls short of the species niche limit and is instead limited by dispersal into suitable habitat. Dispersal limitation caused correlative niche models to underestimate the climatic niche and to poorly predict demographic performance in a short‐term field study. These results highlight key challenges to applying predictions from correlative ENM to understanding range and niche limits.
Long‐term outcomes after prophylactic ICD and CRT‐D implantation in nonischemic patients: Analysis from a nationwide database of daily remote‐monitoring transmissions
Authors: Forleo Giovanni B. , Solimene Francesco , Pisanò Ennio C. , Zanotto Gabriele , Calvi Valeria , Pignalberi Carlo , Maglia Giampiero , Iacopino Saverio , Quartieri Fabio , Biffi Mauro , Caravati Fabrizio , Curnis Antonio , Capucci Alessandro , Senatore Gaetano , Santamaria Matteo , Della Bella Paolo , Manzo Michele , Giacopelli Daniele , Gargaro Alessio , D'Onofrio Antonio
Published: June 2019

Introduction: Clinical trials did not provide conclusive evidence concerning the benefit of prophylactic implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs) in patients with severe nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM). We aimed to compare incidence of appropriate sustained ventricular arrhythmia (SVA) and device therapy in ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) vs NICM ICD and/or cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT‐D) patients.

Methods and Results: We analyzed remote‐monitoring data from devices of the Home Monitoring Expert Alliance network. SVA recordings were adjudicated by three independent electrophysiologists. Our cohort included 1,946 patients who received either an ICD (55%) or a CRT‐D (45%) for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death. Median (interquartile range) age was 70 (62‐77) years, 81% were male, and 52% were in the ICM group. Patients were remotely monitored for a maximum follow‐up of 5 years. The 5‐year product‐limit estimate of SVA incidence in patients with an ICD was 47.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 41.0%‐53.9%) in the ICM group and 44.7% (36.9%‐53.3%) in the NICM group. In patients with a CRT‐D, SVA incidence was 45.7% (37.3%‐55.0%) in ICM patients and 49.2% (40.4%‐58.7%) in NICM patients. The adjusted hazard ratio for SVA in the ICM vs NICM group was 0.96 (95% CI: 0.70‐1.30, P = .77) in ICD patients and 0.85 (95% CI: 0.61‐1.18, P = .34) in CRT‐D patients. SVAs triggered appropriate device therapies with similar incidence in all groups.

Conclusion: In a large cohort of remotely monitored ICD and CRT‐D recipients, SVA incidence did not significantly differ in ICM and NICM patients.
The Re‐Emergence of Partisan Effects on Social Spending after the Global Financial Crisis
Authors: McManus Ian P.
Published: June 2019

This article analysed the effects of the global financial crisis on the political dynamics that shape social spending in Europe. It used panel data for 28 OECD countries during the pre‐crisis (1990–2007) and post‐crisis (2008–13) periods to test the extent to which social spending was affected by EU and domestic variables. Notable differences were found in the influence of EU membership on social spending before and after the crisis as well as an increase in political partisan effects on social expenditure post‐crisis. Additional data of party manifestos for 42 national elections across 26 EU member states during the crisis (2008–13) confirm the emergence of left–right party divisions over social welfare. This finding is significant as partisan effects were absent in the decades preceding the crisis. These results suggest a significant shift has taken place in European social spending in the wake of the Great Recession.
Artificial neural network modeling and genetic algorithm optimization of process parameters in fluidized bed drying of green tea leaves
Authors: Kalathingal Muhammed Sirajul Huda , Basak Suradeep , Mitra Jayeeta
Published: June 2019

The present study involved integration of artificial neural network (ANN) with genetic algorithm (GA) for predicting the optimized process parameters required for fluidized bed drying of green tea leaves. It had a layer each for input and output with linear activation function and two hidden layers with a sigmoid function. The feed forward back propagation method was used to train the developed model. The input parameters used by ANN for generalizing the drying process were temperature (50–80°C) and air flow velocity (7–9.5 m/s), and the output parameters were drying time, total color difference (TCD), and total phenolic content (TPC). The weights and bias values of trained ANN were used by GA to estimate the fitness function, which maximizes the TPC and minimizes the drying time and TCD. The optimum process condition of independent variables (80°C and 9 m/s) obtained from the hybrid ANN/GA was validated, and agreeable relationship between actual and predicted values with relative standard deviation (SD) of 5.7, 0.46, and 0.22 was found for drying time, TCD and TPC of dried leaves, respectively. Hence, under this optimal drying condition, best quality green tea can be obtained within the limits defined.

Practical applications

Drying is a popular unit operation being preferred to prolong shelf life of cash crops. Air drying is predominantly used at any given scale due to its economic feasibility. However, the quality parameters get compromised during the process of drying. Hence, an optimal drying condition is necessary to have dried product with intact nutritional and functional activity, alongside consumer acceptability. This was attempted using ANN and GA. Artificial neural network and genetic algorithm can estimate the optimum fluidized bed drying condition to have intact physical and chemical properties of green tea leaves. The results indicated that the developed ANN/GA drying model can efficiently estimate the values of quality parameters of dried green tea leaves, and also identify the optimal drying conditions for any new data.
Effect of non‐surgical periodontal treatment on gingival crevicular fluid and serum leptin levels in periodontally healthy chronic periodontitis and chronic periodontitis patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ahuja Charu R. , Kolte Abhay P. , Kolte Rajashri A. , Gupta Madhur , Chari Suresh
Published: June 2019

Aim

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of non‐surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) on gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and serum leptin levels and glycemic status in periodontally healthy patients with chronic periodontitis (CP) with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

Ninety patients were divided into three groups: periodontally healthy (group 1), CP (group 2) and CP with T2DM (group 3). The groups were evaluated for clinical parameters of probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index, gingival index, biochemical parameters of GCF, serum leptin levels, and glycemic status pre‐ and post‐NSPT.

Results

The baseline PPD and CAL for group 2 was 4.98 ± 0.49 mm and 5.35 ± 0.55 mm, respectively; for group 3 it was 5.60 ± 0.38 mm and 6.01 ± 0.38 mm, respectively. There was a considerable reduction in these parameters post‐NSPT, with group 2 showing better resolution. Pretreatment serum leptin levels revealed increasing values from group 1 to group 3 and decreasing GCF values from group 3 to group 1, exhibiting an inverse relationship. Group 3 also showed an improvement in glycemic status post‐NSPT.

Conclusion

NSPT was effective in improving clinical parameters, increasing GCF, reducing serum leptin levels, and also improving glycemic status in patients with CP and CP with T2DM.
A mathematical insight into cell labelling experiments for clonal analysis
Authors: Picco Noemi , Hippenmeyer Simon , Rodarte Julio , Streicher Carmen , Molnár Zoltán , Maini Philip K. , Woolley Thomas E.
Published: June 2019

Abstract

Studying the progression of the proliferative and differentiative patterns of neural stem cells at the individual cell level is crucial to the understanding of cortex development and how the disruption of such patterns can lead to malformations and neurodevelopmental diseases. However, our understanding of the precise lineage progression programme at single‐cell resolution is still incomplete due to the technical variations in lineage‐tracing approaches. One of the key challenges involves developing a robust theoretical framework in which we can integrate experimental observations and introduce correction factors to obtain a reliable and representative description of the temporal modulation of proliferation and differentiation. In order to obtain more conclusive insights, we carry out virtual clonal analysis using mathematical modelling and compare our results against experimental data. Using a dataset obtained with Mosaic Analysis with Double Markers, we illustrate how the theoretical description can be exploited to interpret and reconcile the disparity between virtual and experimental results.
Laparoscopic uterosacral ligament colpopexy for apical support in addition to hysterectomy for pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: Nishimura Kazuaki , Yoshimura Kazuaki , Hoshino Kaori , Myoga Mai , Kubo Tatsuhiko , Hachisuga Toru
Published: June 2019

Aim

To evaluate the perioperative complications and the anatomical outcomes of our laparoscopic uterosacral ligament (USL) colpopexy, which is a novel laparoscopic technique for the management of uterine prolapse. The objective was to report on outcome after 2 years of a technique using laparoscopic USL colpopexy.

Methods

A total of 152 uterine prolapse patients underwent laparoscopic USL colpopexy from May 2013 to April 2015. We described the surgical technique and performed a retrospective analysis of this laparoscopic technique. Patients underwent standardized assessment and examination using pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP‐Q) score. The dependent values of Ba point (bladder), C point (vaginal cuff) and Bp point (rectum) were recorded preoperatively, and at 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months of postoperative examination. Pre/postoperative data were compared using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Mean age, operative time and amount of hemorrhage were 68.2 ± 7.5 years, 118.3 ± 36.4 min and 60.5 ± 73.3 mL, respectively. Overall recurrent prolapse, which was defined as POP‐Q stage II or higher, was noted in 29 patients (19%). However, only 2 patients presented recurrent rectocele among 51 patients with preoperative POP‐Q stage II of uterine prolapse alone (recurrence rate; 3.9%). The pre/postoperative average POP‐Q scores were −0.2/−2.7 cm (P < 0.05) at Ba point, −1.9/−5.1 cm (P < 0.05) at C point and −2.4/−2.3 cm (P = 0.06) at Bp point.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic visualization of uterosacral ligaments may result in safe colpopexy. Our results show this will be a useful procedure for apical support as native tissue repair.
Effects of oral supplementation in the management of oral mucositis in cancer patients: A meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: de Menêses Amanda Gomes , Normando Ana Gabriela Costa , Porto de Toledo Isabela , Reis Paula Elaine Diniz , Guerra Eliete Neves Silva
Published: June 2019

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of oral supplementation on the management of oral mucositis in patients with cancer undergoing chemo and/or radiation therapy.

Method

This is a systematic review and meta‐analysis. The search was performed at 6 databases, and in the gray literature. Methodology of included studies was evaluated by the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool, and evidence quality was assessed by GRADE instrument.

Results

Twelve randomized clinical trials were included in this review. The oral supplementation used was an oral elemental diet with amino acids and minerals (elental), glutamine, and zinc. The majority of the studies included in this review showed benefits in delaying the occurrence of OM by using glutamine and zinc, and in reducing the severity of OM with glutamine, zinc, and elental in patients receiving chemoradiotherapy. The meta‐analysis showed that the risk of oral mucositis in the zinc group was slightly lower than in the control (RR: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.53‐0.96, P = 0.02, n = 982) while the glutamine group presented the same risk as the control (RR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.78‐1.05, P = 0.19, n = 314). The evidence quality suggested low confidence for zinc and glutamine studies in the estimated effect from the outcomes assessed.

Conclusions

Zinc is a promising strategy in the management of oral mucositis since it delayed the occurrence and reduced its severity. Glutamine and Elental, on the other hand, had no strong evidence in the prevention and/or treatment of oral mucositis in patients with cancer.
Oral lichenoid dysplasia and not oral lichen planus undergoes malignant transformation at high rates
Authors: Shearston Kate , Fateh Behrooz , Tai Shixiong , Hove Dzikamai , Farah Camile S.
Published: June 2019

Objectives

Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) include a variety of mucosal lesions such as oral lichen planus (OLP), oral lichenoid lesions (OLL) and oral lichenoid dysplasia (OLD). Their rate of malignant transformation ranges from 0% to 34% and is dependent on OPMD type, lesion site and a range of risk factors. This study seeks to determine the proportion of oral lichenoid conditions that transform into oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in an Australian population.

Methods

The study is a retrospective audit of patients from a private oral medicine clinic, diagnosed with OLP, OLL or OLD using clinical and histopathological data between 2006 and 2014. Patients were cross‐matched with Cancer Registry data for OSCC, and the rate and time to malignant transformation determined.

Results

OLP and OLL patients displayed a low risk of malignant transformation; 0.49% (1/206) for OLP and 0% (0/31) for OLL. In contrast, OLD patients, all of whom presented clinically as OLP, were at much higher risk with 6.81% (3/44) developing OSCC over an average time of 4.6 years (±2.4 SD). Rates of smoking and alcohol consumption were no higher in OLD patients compared to others.

Conclusions

Compared with other oral lichenoid conditions, OLD lesions are at a particularly high risk of malignant transformation and should be managed based on the presence of dysplasia and not the lichenoid inflammatory infiltrate. OLP demonstrates a relatively low rate of malignant transformation. Diagnostic histopathology is important for discriminating OLP from OLD.
From being alone to being the only one: Neuroticism is associated with an egocentric shift in an alone context
Authors: Uziel Liad , Seemann Martina , Schmidt‐Barad Tomer
Published: June 2019

Objective

This research presents evidence for an egocentric shift occurring among individuals high in Neuroticism by the mere thought—and actual state—of being alone.

Method

Four experiments and one experience sampling study (N = 719). In the experiments, Neuroticism was measured, and participants were randomly primed to adopt either an alone or a “with others” social context mind‐set. The experiments measured different expressions of egocentrism. Study 1 measured perspective‐taking, Study 2a was focused on social value orientation, Study 2b measured money allocation in a dictator game, and Study 3 measured self‐reported and behavioral interpersonal trust. Trust was also the focus of Study 4, a 5‐day experience sampling study.

Results

In an alone mind‐set, high (vs. low) Neuroticism individuals were more likely to adopt an egocentric perspective in evaluating social stimuli (Study 1) and to adopt a selfish approach to money allocation (Studies 2a, 2b). Studies 3 and 4 addressed the source of the shift, showing that in an alone mind‐set (Study 3) and in an actual alone state (Study 4), Neuroticism was associated with reduced interpersonal trust.

Conclusions

For high‐Neuroticism individuals, thinking about—and actually being—alone induces a sense that they only have themselves to rely on.
Using picture books to develop critical visual literacy in primary schools: challenges of a dialogic approach
Authors: Papen Uta
Published: June 2019

This paper presents findings from a collaborative project on critical visual literacy in primary schools. In the project, we (a researcher and a teacher) implemented a series of picture book discussions with children in years 5 and 6. Our first aim was to develop the children's ability to analyse the visual images in picture books and how authors/illustrators use these, together with writing, to communicate specific ideas. The second aim was to promote a dialogic lesson in which the children would lead the talk. In the paper, I discuss the challenges we faced in reaching our aims. My data include observation notes and audio recordings of the sessions and of discussions with the children. In the analysis, I examine the roles we took on, for example, as extenders and clarifiers of the children's talk. However, unbeknown to us at the start, our two project aims turned out to be in conflict with each other. While the children enjoyed looking closely at the pictures and discussing the books' possible meanings, without repeated questions and prompts, they focused on the book as story not on how it was constructed by the author and illustrator. This required a more teacher‐focused approach than what we had planned.
Phylogeography of the rocky intertidal periwinkle Echinolittorina paytensis through a biogeographic transition zone in the Southeastern Pacific
Authors: Barahona Sergio P. , Vélez‐Zuazo Ximena , Santa‐Maria Monica , Pacheco Aldo S.
Published: June 2019

Barriers to dispersal are recognized to play an important role in the differentiation of populations and ultimately in speciation. In the southeast Pacific, on the northern coast of Peru, a transition zone between the Peruvian and Panamic marine biogeographic provinces exists. Here, the convergence between two contrasting surface currents could generate a barrier effect for the larval dispersal of meroplanktonic invertebrates, which could in turn generate differentiated populations or genetic lineages on both sides of the transition zone. To address this, we studied to Echinolittorina paytensis, an abundant rocky intertidal periwinkle that spans both biogeographic provinces. A total of 95 individuals from Ecuador (2°19′S) to central Peru (7°31′S), covering the Panamic Province, the Peruvian Province, and the transition zone between, were collected. The mitochondrial markers cytochrome c oxidase I and 16SrRNA were sequenced in order to investigate phylogeography and genetic structuring. In general, no genetic structuring was found across the transition zone, suggesting this biogeographic boundary would not be acting as a barrier in this species. Factors such as a high larval dispersal capability and the occurrence of El Niño–Southern Oscillation events such as El Niño are discussed.
Scopulariopsis/Microascus isolation in lung transplant recipients: A report of three cases and a review of the literature
Authors: Huang Linna , Chen Wenhui , Guo Lijuan , Zhao Li , Cao Bin , Liu Yingmei , Lu Binghuai , Li Binbin , Chen Jingyu , Wang Chen
Published: June 2019

The current knowledge of invasive Scopulariopsis/Microascus infection in lung transplantation has been derived from only four case reports. Although these fungi are uncommon compared with Aspergillus, they are highly resistant to the current antifungal agents, and the mortality is extremely high. To explore the risk factors, clinical manifestations, notable diagnostic characteristics and outcomes of positive Scopulariopsis/Microascus isolation in lung transplantation patients. We included all cases with positive Scopulariopsis/Microascus isolation from lower respiratory tracts or bronchial mucosa biopsies in our lung transplantation centre. Proven cases from the literature were added. Positive isolation occurred in 2% (3/157) in our centre. Four cases from the literature were added. The mortality could be considered as high as 80%, once the two cases of colonisation were excluded. The average interval between transplantation and positive isolation was 106 (19‐131) days. A total of 57.1% of patients had experienced a combination of infection with Aspergillus or other fungi as well as long‐term azole antifungal agent treatment before the positive isolation, which may be possible risk factors. The combination of micafungin, posaconazole and terbinafine may be an effective treatment. The peak time of positive isolation was consistent with that of some opportunistic pathogens, and the possible risk factors were the infection of other fungi as well as prior long‐term azole antifungal administration. In addition to its high mortality, Scopulariopsis/Microascus was also highly resistant to common antifungal agents and the combination of two or three drugs for therapy was recommended.
Regulation of stress‐induced gastric ulcers via central oxytocin and a potential mechanism through the VTA‐NAc dopamine pathway
Authors: Leng Hui , Zhang Xiaoqian , Wang Qian , Luan Xiao , Sun Xiangrong , Guo Feifei , Gao Shengli , Liu Xuehuan , Xu Luo
Published: June 2019

Background

Oxytocin (OT) plays an important role in regulating gastric function. How OT regulates stress‐induced gastric ulcers is not understood. We investigated OT's protective role in stress‐induced gastric ulcers, with a focus on OT's interaction with the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to nucleus accumbens (NAc) dopamine pathway.

Methods

Drugs administration into the rats brain nuclei by brain stereotaxic apparatus, to examine related changes in gastric ulcer index, pH of gastric content, and mucus secretion, and to determine complex interactions between OT and DA systems in the regulation of stress and gastric functions.

Key Results

Neurons in the VTA were co‐immunoreactive for the OT receptor (OTR) and DA. In a rat model of stress‐induced ulcer, water‐immersion restricted stress, direct administration of OT into the VTA significantly reduced gastric ulcer index and increased the pH of gastric content and mucus secretion. OT's effects were eliminated by pretreatment with the OTR antagonist atosiban in the VTA and weakened with pretreatment of the DA D2 receptor (DA D2R) antagonist raclopride in the NAc. In OTR gene knockout (Oxtr−/−) mice, OT's protective effect was lost. OT administered to the VTA of dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV)‐lesioned rats had minimal protective effects on gastric mucosa.

Conclusions and Inferences

This study provides important data necessary for a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between OT and DA systems in the regulation of stress and gastric functions. It provides relevant mechanistic clues into OT's role as a protective factor against stress‐induced changes to gastric function.
The evolution of betalain biosynthesis in Caryophyllales
Authors: Timoneda Alfonso , Feng Tao , Sheehan Hester , Walker‐Hale Nathanael , Pucker Boas , Lopez‐Nieves Samuel , Guo Rui , Brockington Samuel
Published: June 2019

Within the angiosperm order Caryophyllales, an unusual class of pigments known as betalains can replace the otherwise ubiquitous anthocyanins. In contrast to the phenylalanine‐derived anthocyanins, betalains are tyrosine‐derived pigments which contain the chromophore betalamic acid. The origin of betalain pigments within Caryophyllales and their mutual exclusion with anthocyanin pigments have been the subject of considerable research. In recent years, numerous discoveries, accelerated by ‐omic scale data, phylogenetics and synthetic biology, have shed light on the evolution of the betalain biosynthetic pathway in Caryophyllales. These advances include the elucidation of the biosynthetic steps in the betalain pathway, identification of transcriptional regulators of betalain synthesis, resolution of the phylogenetic history of key genes, and insight into a role for modulation of primary metabolism in betalain synthesis. Here we review how molecular genetics have advanced our understanding of the betalain biosynthetic pathway, and discuss the impact of phylogenetics in revealing its evolutionary history. In light of these insights, we explore our new understanding of the origin of betalains, the mutual exclusion of betalains and anthocyanins, and the homoplastic distribution of betalain pigmentation within Caryophyllales. We conclude with a speculative conceptual model for the stepwise emergence of betalain pigmentation.
Leishmania infantum induces expression of the negative regulatory checkpoint, CTLA‐4, by human naïve CD8+ T cells
Authors: Viana Agostinho Gonçalves , Magalhães Luísa Mourão Dias , Giunchetti Rodolfo Cordeiro , Dutra Walderez O. , Gollob Kenneth J.
Published: June 2019

Aims

CD8+ T cells are important in mediating protective responses to intracellular pathogens. However, an uncontrolled response may lead to pathology. The role of CD8+ T cells in different clinical manifestations of human leishmaniasis is controversial and poorly understood. We aim to study the response of CD8+ T cells to the first exposure to different strains of Leishmania, seeking to correlate these findings with clinical manifestations of disease.

Methods and results

We have evaluated the expression of granzyme A, inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokines, as well as CTLA‐4 by human naïve CD8+ T cells exposed to Leishmania braziliensis and two different strains of Leishmania infantum in vitro. We observed that while exposure to L braziliensis induced an inflammatory profile, as measured by the expression of granzyme A, IFN‐gamma and IL‐17, as well as a higher IFN/IL‐10 ratio, exposure to L infantum led to a regulatory profile, as measured by lower IFN/IL‐10 ratio and higher expression of CTLA‐4.

Conclusion

These results may help explain why patients with the visceral clinical form present a weaker cellular response and, consequently, a worse outcome of the disease. The use of CTLA‐4 checkpoint inhibitors may emerge as a potential immunotherapy to ameliorate the immune response in visceral leishmaniasis patients.
Salt stress differentially regulates mobilisation of carbon and nitrogen reserves during seedling establishment of Pityrocarpa moniliformis
Authors: da Silva H. A. , de Oliveira D. F. A. , Avelino A. P. , de Macêdo C. E. C. , Barros‐Galvão T. , Voigt E. L.
Published: June 2019

Seedling establishment is a critical step in environment colonisation by higher plants that frequently occurs under adverse conditions. Thus, we carried out an integrated analysis of seedling growth, water status, ion accumulation, reserve mobilisation, metabolite partitioning and hydrolase activity during seedling establishment of the native Caatinga species Piptadenia moniliformis (Benth.) Luckow & R.W. Jobson under salinity.

Two‐day‐old seedlings were cultivated in vitro for 4 days in water agar (control) or supplemented with 50 or 100 mm NaCl. Biochemical determinations were performed according to standard spectrophotometric protocols.

We found that 100 mm NaCl stimulated starch degradation, amylase activity and soluble sugar accumulation, but limited storage protein hydrolysis in the cotyledons of P. moniliformis seedlings. Although Na+ accumulation in the seedling affected K+ partitioning between different organs, it was not possible to associate the salt‐induced changes in reserve mobilisation with Na+ toxicity, or water status, in the cotyledons. Remarkably, we found that starch content increased in the roots of P. moniliformis seedlings under 100 mm NaCl, probably in response to the toxic effects of Na+.

The mobilisation of carbon and nitrogen reserves is independently regulated in P. moniliformis seedlings under salt stress. The salt‐induced delay in seedling establishment and the resulting changes in the source–sink relationship may lead to storage protein retention in the cotyledons. Possibly, the intensification of starch mobilisation in the cotyledons supported starch accumulation in the root as a potential mechanism to mitigate Na+ toxicity.
Comparative analysis of genetic structures and aggressiveness of Fusarium pseudograminearum populations from two surveys undertaken in 2008 and 2015 at two sites in the wheat belt of Western Australia
Authors: Khudhair M. , Thatcher L. F. , Gardiner D. M. , Kazan K. , Roper M. M. , Aitken E. , Obanor F.
Published: June 2019

Fusarium crown rot (FCR), caused predominantly by Fusarium pseudograminearum (Fp) in Australia, is an important fungal disease of wheat and barley. FCR causes significant yield losses and reduced grain quality worldwide. This study investigated the population dynamics of FCR‐causing F. pseudograminearum isolates from Western Australia (WA), a major wheat‐growing region. Wheat samples were collected from a total of seven different sites in 2008 and 2015. Two sites, Tammin and Karlgarin, with moderate to high FCR incidence, were intensively sampled in both years. The results revealed significant increase in Fp isolation frequency between 2008 and 2015. Over 86% of 1100 Fusarium isolates were Fp in 2015 compared with 59% of 639 isolates from 2008. Mating type idiomorphs, toxin chemotypes and population genetic structures were determined for a subset of 279 Fp isolates (132 isolates from 2008 and 165 from 2015). Mating type analysis revealed differences in MAT1‐1 and MAT1‐2 distributions between Tammin and Karlgarin for both years. Results also showed that 97.6% of Fp isolates analysed had the 3‐ADON trichothecene chemotype. Additionally, for the first time in Australia, the 15‐ADON chemotype was identified in 2.3% and 2.4% of Fp isolates from 2008 and 2015, respectively. The genetic structure of Fp population determined using 21 cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (CAPS) markers revealed a high level of genetic variation within and between populations. In addition, 2015 isolates from Tammin and Karlgarin were significantly more aggressive (P < 0.0001) than 2008 isolates. This finding may have implications in managing this significant fungal disease.
Improved quantitative detection of biotin‐labeled red blood cells by flow cytometry
Authors: Donnenberg Albert D. , Kanias Tamir , Triulzi Darrell J. , Dennis Catherine J. , Meyer E. Michael , Gladwin Mark
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Biotin‐labeled red blood cells (BioRBC) can be tracked after transfusion, providing a convenient and safe way to measure RBC survival in vivo. RBC survival is of interest for determining optimal blood storage conditions and for assessing the impact of genetic and biologic variants in blood donors on the survival of transfused RBCs. Here we present an improved, platform‐independent assay for quantifying biotin on BioRBC. This approach is also useful for detecting BioRBC in peripheral blood samples as rare events.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We optimized the signal‐to‐noise ratio of the detecting reagent (phycoerythrin‐conjugated streptavidin [SA‐PE]) by determining the SA‐PE concentration yielding the greatest separation index between BioRBC and unlabeled RBCs. We calibrated the fluorescence intensity measurements to molecules of equivalent soluble fluorochrome (MESF), a quantitative metric of fluorochrome binding and therefore of biotin bound per RBC. We then characterized the limit of blank and limit of quantification (LoQ) for BioRBC labeled at different densities.

RESULTS

Biotin‐labeled RBCs at sulfo‐NHS‐biotin concentrations of 3 to 30 μg/mL (27‐271 nmol/mL RBCs) ranged from approximately 32,000 to 200,000 MESF/RBC. The LoQ ranged from one in 274,000 to one in 649,000, depending on biotin‐labeling density.

CONCLUSION

Increased sensitivity to detect BioRBC may facilitate tracking over longer periods and/or reduction of the BioRBC dose. Total RBC‐bound biotin dose has been shown to correlate with the likelihood of developing antibodies to BioRBC. Lowering the dose of labeled cells may help avoid this eventuality.
Healthy Public Policy Options to Promote Physical Activity for Chronic Disease Prevention: Understanding Canadian Policy Influencer and General Public Preferences
Authors: McGetrick Jennifer Ann , Kongats Krystyna , Raine Kim D. , Voyer Corinne , Nykiforuk Candace I.J.
Published: June 2019

Background: Attitudes and beliefs of policy influencers and the general public toward physical activity policy may support or impede population-level action, requiring improved understanding of aggregate preferences toward policies that promote physical activity. Methods: In 2016, the Chronic Disease Prevention Survey was administered to a census sample of policy influencers (n = 302) and a stratified random sample of the public (n = 2400) in Alberta and Québec. Using net favorable percentages and the Nuffield Council on Bioethics’ intervention ladder framework to guide analysis, the authors examined support for evidence-based healthy public policies to increase physical activity levels. Results: Less intrusive policy options (ie, policies that are not always the most impactful) tended to have higher levels of support than policies that eliminated choice. However, there was support for certain types of policies affecting influential determinants of physical activity such as the built environment (ie, provided they enabled rather than restricted choice) and school settings (ie, focusing on children and youth). Overall, the general public indicated stronger levels of support for more physical activity policy options than policy influencers. Conclusions: The authors’ findings may be useful for health advocates in identifying support for evidence-based healthy public policies affecting more influential determinants of physical activity.
Mechanisms and competition of halide substitution and hydrolysis in reactions of N
2
O
5
with seawater
Authors: McCaslin Laura M. , Johnson Mark A. , Gerber R. Benny
Published: June 2019

When Cl
−
and H
2
O are near N
2
O
5
, halide substitution is much faster than hydrolysis, although hydrolysis is enhanced by Cl
−
.
Pulmonary environmental cues drive group 2 innate lymphoid cell dynamics in mice and humans
Authors: Puttur Franz , Denney Laura , Gregory Lisa G. , Vuononvirta Juho , Oliver Robert , Entwistle Lewis J. , Walker Simone A. , Headley Mark B. , McGhee Ewan J. , Pease James E. , Krummel Matthew F. , Carlin Leo M. , Lloyd Clare M.
Published: June 2019

Collagen-I and CCL8-CCR8 axis control the motility of ILC2s in the inflamed lung.
Bedaquiline Eliminates Bactericidal Activity of β-Lactams against Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Lindman Marissa , Dick Thomas
Published: June 2019

The β-lactams imipenem and cefoxitin are used for the treatment of
Mycobacterium abscessus
lung infections. Here, we show that these cell wall synthesis inhibitors trigger a lethal bacterial ATP burst by increasing oxidative phosphorylation. Cotreatment of
M. abscessus
with the antimycobacterial ATP synthase inhibitor bedaquiline suppresses this ATP burst and eliminates the bactericidal activity of β-lactams.
In Vitro
Activity of Chlorhexidine Compared with Seven Antifungal Agents against 98
Fusarium
Isolates Recovered from Fungal Keratitis Patients
Authors: Oliveira dos Santos Claudy , Kolwijck Eva , van der Lee Henrich A. , Tehupeiory-Kooreman Marlou C. , Al-Hatmi Abdullah M. S. , Matayan Einoti , Burton Matthew J. , Eggink Cathrien A. , Verweij Paul E.
Published: June 2019

Fungal keratitis is a common but severe eye infection in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. In regions with a temperate climate, the frequency of infection is rising in patients with contact lenses and following trauma. Early and adequate therapy is important to prevent disease progression and loss of vision. The management of
Fusarium
keratitis is complex, and the optimal treatment is not well defined.
PersistentToxoplasmaInfection of the Brain Induced Neurodegeneration Associated with Activation of Complement and Microglia
Authors: Li Ye , Severance Emily G. , Viscidi Raphael P. , Yolken Robert H. , Xiao Jianchun
Published: June 2019

Toxoplasma gondii, a common neurotropic parasite, is increasingly being linked to neuropsychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. However, the pathogenic mechanisms underlying these associations are not clear.Toxoplasmacan reside in the brain for extensive periods in the form of tissue cysts, and this process requires a continuous immune response to prevent the parasite’s reactivation.
Diagnostic dilemma of ocular lymphoma
Authors: Batis Vasilios , Shuttleworth James , Shuttleworth Garry , Williams Gwyn Samuel
Published: June 2019

We report a very unusual presentation of primary intraocular lymphoma masquerading as anterior uveitis with atypical symptoms. A 68-year-old man, initially presented with a 4-day history of painless, left blurred vision. Examination revealed 2 or more anterior chamber cells, mutton-fat keratic precipitates and posterior synechiae. Treatment was initiated, the eye settled, and the patient was discharged. He re-presented 7 months later with hypopyon, a hazy cornea, fibrin deposits and a narrowed anterior chamber angle. Over the coming weeks, it became apparent that the temporal iris was thickened, involving the angle, and his intraocular pressure increased despite topical dorzolamide. Following advice from a tertiary centre and referral to a regional ocular oncology centre, a transscleral biopsy was performed and suggested a ciliary body melanoma. Enucleation was advised and performed, with histological examination revealing features consistent with an ocular diffuse large B-cell lymphoma not involving the optic nerve, sclera or cornea. This is the first ever published report of a case of ocular lymphoma masquerading in this way.