bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progressive brain atrophy in Parkinson's disease patients who convert to mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Zhou Cheng , Guan Xiao‐Jun , Guo Tao , Zeng Qiao‐Ling , Gao Ting , Huang Pei‐Yu , Xuan Min , Gu Quan‐Quan , Xu Xiao‐Jun , Zhang Min‐Ming
Published: July 2019

Aims

Cognitive impairment is a common symptom in the trajectory of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the pathological underpinning is not fully known. We aimed to explore the critical structural alterations in the process of cognitive decline and its relationships with the dopaminergic deficit and the level of related cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) proteins.

Methods

Ninety‐four patients with PD and 32 controls were included in this study. Neuropsychological tests were performed at baseline and after 28 months to identify which patients had normal cognition and which ones developed PD‐MCI after follow‐up (“converters”). Gray matter atrophy was assessed in cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses, respectively. The associations between altered GMV with dopamine transporter (DAT) results and the level of CSF proteins were assessed.

Results

Among the 94 patients with normal cognition at baseline, 24 (mean age, 63.1 years) developed PD‐MCI after 28 months of follow‐up, and 70 (mean age, 62.3 years) remained nonconverters. The converters showed significant right temporal atrophy at baseline and extensive atrophy in temporal lobe at follow‐up. Progressive bilateral frontal lobe atrophy was found in the converters. Baseline right temporal atrophy was correlated with the striatal dopaminergic degeneration in the converters. No correlation was found between the right temporal atrophy and the alterations of CSF proteins.

Conclusion

Early atrophy in temporal lobes and progressive atrophy in frontal lobes might be a biomarker for developing multidomain impairment of cognition and converting to PD‐MCI. Furthermore, cognition‐related temporal atrophy might be associated with dopaminergic deficit reflected by DAT scan but independent of CSF proteins in patients with PD who convert to PD‐MCI.
A systematic review of studies investigating the effects of controlled whole‐body vibration intervention on peripheral circulation
Authors: Mahbub MH , Hiroshige Keiichi , Yamaguchi Natsu , Hase Ryosuke , Harada Noriaki , Tanabe Tsuyoshi
Published: July 2019

The findings of the published studies investigating the changes in peripheral circulation induced by exposure to whole‐body vibration (WBV) are not consensual or conclusive. Also, those studies did not consider the role of vibration magnitude on the peripheral circulatory responses making the interpretation of the observed findings difficult. We aimed to review the published literature investigating the effects of controlled WBV intervention on peripheral circulation by characterizing the relevant exposure conditions including vibration magnitudes, and ascertain the specific patterns of responses in peripheral circulation of the lower extremity from such exposure. A computerized search was performed in PubMed and Scopus using selected key search terms, and the relevant data were extracted. The vibration magnitude in the included studies frequently exceeded the limit specified in the International Standard ISO 2631‐1 (1997) for such exposure. As observed, exposure to WBV with frequencies ≤30 Hz caused an improvement in peripheral blood flow (BF) and/or skin temperature (ST) of the lower extremity. In contrast, the responses in BF and ST from exposure to WBV of higher frequencies (31 Hz–50 Hz) produced conflicting results. The findings of this review indicate that WBV exposure with relatively lower frequency and magnitude can be safely and effectively used to induce improvements in peripheral circulation. For this purpose, the limits recommended by the ISO 2631‐1 (1997) should be considered till safe and effective vibration‐related parameters are established.
The Abdominal Transplant Surgery Workforce: Current state and future trends
Authors: Kaldas Fady M. , Rocca Juan P. , Bhati Chandra S. , Duan Ning , Evenson Amy R. , Tan Henkie P. , Redfield Robert R. , di Sabato Diego M. , Yoshida Atsushi , Abt Peter L. , Geevarghese Sunil K.
Published: July 2019

Transplant surgical workforce concerns have arisen in the last 5 years as reflected in challenges securing job opportunities for new fellows. The present survey was designed by the ASTS Membership and Workforce Committee to describe the current practice characteristics of transplant centers in order to estimate changes in the workforce. The survey questionnaire requested information about the transplant programs, the transplant surgeons involved in the program, and the estimated changes in the staffing of the program over the next 3 years. Seventy‐one transplant centers responded from a total of 235 identified and queried (30.2% response rate), with median responding centers per UNOS region of 7 (IQR 4.5‐8.5). The recruitment outlook for the next 3 years forecasts a positive inflow of surgeons at a 2:1 rate (incoming:leaving). The new female transplant workforce within the responding cohort has increased from 3.7% in 1980 to 18.4% in 2010. Currently, 13.1% of practicing US transplant surgeons in this survey are female which is higher than many other surgical specialties. This report represents the most up‐to‐date view into the abdominal transplant surgical workforce. The positive job recruitment outlook for transplant surgeons and the narrowing gender gap are new findings from this study.
Does duration of donor brain injury impact heart transplantation outcomes?
Authors: Kogan Alexander , Ram Eilon , Nachum Eyal , Kassif Yigal , Lavee Jacob , Peled Yael
Published: July 2019

Aim

We aimed to study the implications of pre‐transplantation time intervals on HT outcomes.

Methods

Brain injury time (BIT) was defined as the period from the donor brain injury to brain death declaration. Brain death interval (BDI) was defined as the period from brain death to application of an aortic cross‐clamp during donor heart procurement. Allograft ischemia was defined as the time from donor aortic cross‐clamp to aortic unclamping. End points included mortality and rejections.

Results

Between 1997 and 2017, we assessed 173 patients. Kaplan‐Meier analyses showed that prolonged donor BIT, BDI, allograft ischemia, and total injury time had no significant effect on mortality and rejections. Patients were subdivided into short BIT (<97 hours, n = 87) and long BIT (≥97 hours, n = 86) groups. No differences in rejection scores nor in time to first rejection were noted. Kaplan‐Meier analysis showed a similar long‐term survival in the two groups. Sub‐analysis of both groups according to their median BDI (12 hours) revealed no differences in mortality or time to rejection.

Conclusions

Pre‐transplantation time intervals do not affect mortality or rejection. Our findings have important clinical implications regarding HT allocation and organ availability.
A case of S‐100‐negative CD1a‐positive indeterminate cell histiocytosis
Authors: Amin Sima , Jamerson Jordan , Tee Ronald G. , Parekh Palak
Published: July 2019

Histiocytoses are a group of rare disorders characterized by a proliferation of monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells. We present a case of a 3‐year‐old girl with a diffuse papular eruption without systemic symptoms demonstrating a proliferation of strongly CD1a+ histiocytes, but negative for S‐100 and langerin on histopathology. Systemic work‐up including bone marrow biopsy was unremarkable, and the patient received a diagnosis of CD1a+ S− 100‐indeterminate cell histiocytosis.
Primary cutaneous biphasic sarcomatoid basal cell carcinoma with myoepithelial carcinoma differentiation: A new variant
Authors: Mestre‐Alagarda Claudia , Nieto Gema , Terrádez Liria , Monteagudo Carlos
Published: July 2019

Isolated cases of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) with partial myoepithelial component have been described. However, myoepithelial differentiation has not been described in sarcomatoid basal cell carcinomas, which usually show features resembling osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, or leiomyosarcoma. We report a case of an 87‐year‐old man with a forehead lesion that histologically showed a minor component of conventional nodular BCC in transition with a major biphasic sarcomatoid growth composed of invasive spindle‐cell and epithelial‐like components, the latter with a reticular pattern and scattered ductal structures. Both components showed cytological atypia and high mitotic rate (26/10HPF), with atypical mitotic figures. BER‐EP4 immunostaining was exclusively found in the nodular BCC component whereas the sarcomatoid component revealed immunostaining for α‐smooth muscle actin (SMA), muscle‐specific actin (MSA), calponin, and p63 in both epithelial‐like and spindle‐cell populations. Focal immunoreactivity was observed in the epithelial component for S100 and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Furthermore, EWSR1‐PBX1 gene fusion was also detected. This is to our knowledge, the first fully documented case of biphasic sarcomatoid BCC with myoepithelial carcinoma differentiation.
Intramucosal poorly differentiated and signet‐ring cell components in patients with ulcerative colitis‐associated high‐grade dysplasia
Authors: Sugimoto Shinya , Shimoda Masayuki , Iwao Yasushi , Mutaguchi Makoto , Nanki Kosaku , Mizuno Shinta , Kameyama Kaori , Ogata Haruhiko , Naganuma Makoto , Kanai Takanori
Published: July 2019

Despite the rarity of colorectal poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma (Por) and signet‐ring cell carcinoma (Sig), they are more frequent in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). However, little is known about these components of early colitis‐associated cancer due to the difficulty of detection at an early stage. Here, we reviewed colitis‐associated high‐grade dysplasia/cancer with Por/Sig components within the submucosa among 103 lesions of 79 UC patients who presented between 1997 and 2017. In total, one Sig in situ, three intramucosal and two submucosal carcinomas (8.7%) were identified among 69 lesions within the submucosa. Depressed appearance, loss of crypt architecture and amorphous surface pattern suggested the presence of Por/Sig, rather than submucosal infiltration. All lesions were located in the rectosigmoid colon and included high‐grade dysplasia. While the surrounding noncancerous mucosa expressed E‐cadherin and MUC5AC, the expression of E‐cadherin was reduced and the expression of MUC5AC was negative in all of the carcinomas except for the Sig in situ. The gastric type metaplasia associated with altered MUC5AC profiles may be a sign of the stepwise accumulation of molecular alterations, including TP53 defects and a reduced expression level of E‐cadherin.
Factors that influence the intended intensity of diabetes care in a person‐centred setting
Authors: van Vugt H. A. , Heijmans M. J. W. M. , de Koning E. J. P. , Rutten G. E. H. M.
Published: July 2019

Aims

To assess the intended intensity of Type 2 diabetes care and the factors associated with that intensity of care after the annual monitoring visit in which a new person‐centred diabetes consultation model including shared decision making was used.

Methods

We conducted an observational study in 1284 people from 47 general practices and six hospital outpatient clinics. Intensity of care (more, no/minimal change, less) was based on monitoring frequency and referral to other care providers. We used multivariable analyses to determine the factors that were independently associated with intensity of care. Care providers also reported three factors which, in their opinion, determined the intensity of care.

Results

After the consultation, 22.8% of people chose more intensive care, 70.6% chose no/minimal change and 6.6% chose less intensive care. Whether care became more intensive vs not/minimally changed was associated with a high educational level (odds ratio 1.65, CI 1.07 to 2.53; P=0.023), concern about illness (odds ratio 1.08; CI 1.00 to 1.17; P=0.045), goal‐setting (odds ratio 6.53, CI 3.79 to 11.27; P<0.001), comorbidities (odds ratio 1.12, CI 1.00 to 1.24; P=0.041) and use of oral blood glucose lowering medication (odds ratio 0.59, CI 0.39 to 0.89; P=0.011). Less intensive care vs no/minimal change was associated with lower diabetes distress levels (odds ratio 0.87, CI 0.79 to 0.97; P=0.009). According to care providers, quality of life, lifestyle, person's preferences and motivation, glycaemic control, and self‐management possibilities most frequently determined the intended care.

Conclusions

In person‐centred diabetes care, the intended intensity of care was associated with both disease‐ and person‐related factors.
Evaluation of the introduction of a dental virtual simulator on the performance of undergraduate dental students in the pre‐clinical operative dentistry course
Authors: Murbay Sukhdeep , Chang Jeffrey Wen Wei , Yeung Shadow , Neelakantan Prasanna
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Virtual reality‐based platforms are becoming increasingly popular in education. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of undergraduate dental students with the introduction of the Moog Simodont dental trainer (VR) within the pre‐clinical curriculum in the direct restoration module of the operative dentistry course using manual and digital methods.

Methods

Thirty‐two randomly selected year 2 undergraduate students were divided into two groups: group 1, exposed to the Moog Simodont dental trainer (VR) and group 2, no exposure to VR. All students were then evaluated in carrying out a Class I preparation in a single‐blinded fashion. All preparations were evaluated by three assessors using a traditional manual approach and a digital software. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using chi‐square test (alpha = 0.05).

Results

The number of students who performed satisfactory preparations was more in group 1 (12/16), compared to group 2 (7/16). The percentage of satisfactory domains was significantly higher in group 1, compared to group 2, both in the manual evaluation (83.9% (94/112) and 59.8% (67/112) in groups 1 and 2, respectively) and in the digital evaluation (85.7% (96/112) and 55.4% (62/112) in groups 1 and 2, respectively) (P < .05). There was no significant difference between the manual and digital methods of evaluation with regard to the percentage of satisfactory or unsatisfactory preparations (P > .05).

Conclusions

The use of the Moog Simodont dental trainer (VR) significantly improved the satisfactory performance of students. The virtual reality simulator may be a valuable adjunct in the undergraduate direct restorations course and for remedial student.
A new risk model to predict time to first treatment in chronic lymphocytic leukemia based on heavy chain immunoparesis and summated free light chain
Authors: Tadmor Tamar , Braester Andrei , Najib Dally , Aviv Ariel , Herishanu Yair , Yuklea Mona , Shvidel Lev , Rahimi‐Levene Naomi , Ruchlemer Rosa , Arad Ariela , Fogl Claudia , Henig Clara , Barak Mira , Magal Lee , Polliack Aaron , Townsend Kelly ,   the Israeli CLL study group
Published: July 2019

Background

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is frequently accompanied by immune dysregulation.

Aims

In this multicenter prospective study, we investigated whether heavy + light chains (HLC: IgGκ, IgGλ, IgAκ, IgAκ, IgMκ, IgMλ) and IgG subclasses (IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4) could be used as novel prognostic markers of immunoparesis in 105 treatment‐naïve patients with CLL.

Results

Heavy + light chains immunoparesis of ≥1, ≥2, and ≥3 isotypes was evident in 74 (70%), 58 (55%), and 36 (34%) patients, respectively. Severe HLC immunoparesis was identified in 40 (38%) patients. Of the IgG subclasses, IgG1 and IgG2 were most frequently suppressed, affecting 46 (44%) and 36 (34%) patients, respectively; 63 (60%) patients had low levels of at least one IgG subclass. In multivariate analysis, severe HLC immunoparesis (hazard ratio [HR]: 36.5; P = .010) and ΣFLC ≥ 70 mg/L (HR: 13.2; P = .004) were the only factors independently associated with time to first treatment (TTFT). A risk model including these variables identified patients with 0, 1, and 2 risk factors and significantly different TTFT (P < .001). Patients with two factors represented an ultra‐high‐risk group with a median TTFT of only 1.3 months.

Conclusion

The above findings demonstrate the potential for the use of HLC immunoparesis, together with sFLC measurements, as future prognostic biomarkers in CLL.
Weak correlations between body height and several brain metrics in healthy elderly subjects
Authors: Jäncke Lutz , Liem Franz , Merillat Susan
Published: July 2019

The question whether body height is related to different brain size measures has recently gained renewed interest as some studies have reported that body height correlates with intelligence and several brain size measures. In this study, we re‐evaluated this question by examining the relationship between body height and different brain size measures including intracranial volume, total brain volume, total cortical surface area, total cortical volume, volume of normal‐appearing white matter, white matter hyperintensity, cortical surface area, cortical thickness, subcortical grey matter volume, cerebellar cortex and cerebellar white matter in a relatively large sample (n = 216) of physically and cognitively healthy elderly subjects (mean age 71 years, age range 65–85 years). We identified small correlations (r = .11–.19) between body height and seven out of 10 brain metrics (total brain volume, cortical surface area, cortical volume, subcortical volume, normal‐appearing white matter volume and cerebellar grey as well as white matter volumes) when controlling for sex and age. Based on these small relationships between body height and various brain size measures, we discuss the possible reasons and theoretical problems for these small relationships.
Stria terminalis microstructure in humans predicts variability in orienting towards threat
Authors: Koller Kristin , Hatton Christopher M. , Rogers Robert D. , Rafal Robert D.
Published: July 2019

Current concepts of the extended amygdala posit that basolateral to central amygdala projections mediate fear‐conditioned autonomic alerting, whereas projections to the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis mediate sustained anxiety. Using diffusion tensor imaging tractography in humans, we show that microstructure of the stria terminalis correlates with an orienting bias towards threat in a saccade decision task, providing the first evidence that this circuit supports decisions guiding evaluation of threatening stimuli.
The estrous cycle modulates rat caudate–putamen medium spiny neuron physiology
Authors: Willett Jaime A. , Cao Jinyan , Johnson Ashlyn , Patel Opal H. , Dorris David M. , Meitzen John
Published: July 2019

The neuroendocrine environment in which the brain operates is both dynamic and differs by sex. How differences in neuroendocrine state affect neuron properties has been significantly neglected in neuroscience research. Behavioral data across humans and rodents indicate that natural cyclical changes in steroid sex hormone production affect sensorimotor and cognitive behaviors in both normal and pathological contexts. These behaviors are critically mediated by the caudate–putamen. In the caudate–putamen, medium spiny neurons (MSNs) are the predominant and primary output neurons. MSNs express membrane‐associated estrogen receptors and demonstrate estrogen sensitivity. However, how the cyclical hormone changes across the estrous cycle may modulate caudate–putamen MSN electrophysiological properties remains unknown. Here, we performed whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings on male, diestrus female, proestrus female, and estrus female caudate–putamen MSNs. Action potential, passive membrane, and miniature excitatory post‐synaptic current properties were assessed. Numerous MSN electrical properties robustly differed by cycle state, including resting membrane potential, rheobase, action potential threshold, maximum evoked action potential firing rate, and inward rectification. Strikingly, when considered independent of estrous cycle phase, all but one of these properties do not significantly differ from male MSNs. These data indicate that female caudate–putamen MSNs are sensitive to the estrous cycle, and more broadly, the importance of considering neuroendocrine state in studies of neuron physiology.
Comparison of classification methods for tissue outcome after ischaemic stroke
Authors: Tozlu Ceren , Ozenne Brice , Cho Tae‐Hee , Nighoghossian Norbert , Mikkelsen Irene Klærke , Derex Laurent , Hermier Marc , Pedraza Salvador , Fiehler Jens , Østergaard Leif , Berthezène Yves , Baron Jean‐Claude , Maucort‐Boulch Delphine
Published: July 2019

In acute ischaemic stroke, identifying brain tissue at high risk of infarction is important for clinical decision‐making. This tissue may be identified with suitable classification methods from magnetic resonance imaging data. The aim of the present study was to assess and compare the performance of five popular classification methods (adaptive boosting, logistic regression, artificial neural networks, random forest and support vector machine) in identifying tissue at high risk of infarction on human voxel‐based brain imaging data. The classification methods were used with eight MRI parameters, including diffusion‐weighted imaging and perfusion‐weighted imaging obtained in 55 patients. The five criteria used to assess the performance of the methods were the area under the receiver operating curve (AUCroc), the area under the precision–recall curve (AUCpr), sensitivity, specificity and the Dice coefficient. The methods performed equally in terms of sensitivity and specificity, while the results of AUCroc and the Dice coefficient were significantly better for adaptive boosting, logistic regression, artificial neural networks and random forest. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the performances of these five classification methods regarding AUCpr, which was the main comparison metric. Machine learning methods can provide valuable prognostic information using multimodal imaging data in acute ischaemic stroke, which in turn can assist in developing personalized treatment decision for clinicians after a thorough validation of methods with an independent data set.
Influence of silica nanocoating on stain susceptibility and superficial integrity of dimethacrylate‐based composites
Authors: Yanikian Cristiane R. F. , Stape Thiago H. S. , Tezvergil‐Mutluay Arzu , Martins Luís R. M.
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of a novel silica (SiO2)‐based nanocoating approach to extend the superficial integrity of current composites. Cylindrical discs (7 × 2 mm) were produced from nanohybrid and nanofilled composites. Specimens in control groups were not coated, but SiO2 nanocoating was performed on specimens in experimental groups (n = 8). Specimens were stored for 24 h in distilled water at 37°C (baseline) and then artificially aged for 15, 90, or 180 d in a low‐pH staining solution. Surface roughness (Ra) was measured using a profilometer, and a goniometer was used to determine surface free energy (SFE). Color change was evaluated by a reflectance spectrophotometer, applying the color distance metric, ΔE00, according to the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) L*a*b* coordinates. Data were subjected to repeated‐measures anova and the Tukey post‐hoc test. Composites presented visually perceptible color changes (ΔE00 > 0.81) as early as 15 d of aging, with significantly higher ΔE00 values recorded over time. Nanocoating with SiO2 significantly reduced the SFE of composites at all storage times, and significantly lower Ra values were identified after aging. Nanohybrid and nanofilled composites were susceptible to substantial hydrolytic superficial degradation and staining, which was dramatically attenuated by the proposed SiO2 nanocoating approach. Nanocoating effectively lowered the SFE of composites, thus minimizing water–composite interactions, which contributed to reduced superficial deterioration and lower stain susceptibility over time.
First detection of a virulent strain of Citrus tristeza virus (Closteroviridae) in a citrus orchard of Chlef Valley (Algeria)
Authors: Ali Arous S. , Guenaoui Y. , Drais M. I. , Djelouah K.
Published: July 2019

A large‐scale survey of Citrus tristeza virus (CTV) was carried out from 2016 to 2018 in the Chlef Valley, one of the main citrus growing areas in Algeria. In this study a total of 1680 citrus trees from 93 commercial orchards were sampled. The collected samples were tested by direct tissue blot immunoassay analysis and by the double antibody sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay technique, and 54 trees were identified as being infected with CTV. This result confirmed that 54 trees were infected by the virus, corresponding to an infection rate of 3.21% throughout the studied area. Five of these local CTV sources were chosen for further molecular investigations to determine the genotype associated with the CTV isolates now spreading in the Chlef area. Characterization with multiple molecular markers showed the presence of the T30 and VT genotypes. This result allowed confirmation of the presence of a virulent strain belonging to the VT genotype. The other CTV isolates were similar to those from the Mitidja region, which showed 99% nucleotide identity with the Spanish mild CTV isolate. This early finding of a strain belonging to the VT genotype is an issue for Algerian citrus producers and needs rapid actions to be taken by the National phytosanitary services, extending the surveillance to other citrus production regions and uprooting the infected trees.
A multiscale approach to detect selection in nonmodel tree species: Widespread adaptation despite population decline in Taxus baccata L
Authors: Mayol Maria , Riba Miquel , Cavers Stephen , Grivet Delphine , Vincenot Lucie , Cattonaro Federica , Vendramin Giovanni G. , González‐Martínez Santiago C.
Published: July 2019

Detecting the molecular basis of local adaptation and identifying selective drivers is still challenging in nonmodel species. The use of purely population genetic approaches is limited by some characteristics of genetic systems, such as pleiotropy and polygenic control, and parallel evidence from phenotypic‐based experimental comparisons is required. In long‐lived organisms, the detection of selective pressures might also be precluded by evolutionary lag times in response to the environment. Here, we used the English yew to showcase an example of a multiscale integrative approach in a nonmodel species with limited plant and genomic resources. We combined information from two independent sources, phenotypes in a common environment and genomic data in natural populations, to investigate the signature of selection. Growth differences among populations in a common environment, and phenological patterns of both shoot elongation and male strobili maturation, were associated with climate clines, providing evidence for local adaptation and guiding us in the selection of populations for genomic analyses. We used information on over 25,000 SNPs from c. 1,200 genes to infer the demographic history and to test for molecular signatures of selection at different levels: SNP, gene, and biological pathway. Our results confirmed an overall demographic history of population decline, but we also found evidence for putative local adaptation at the molecular level. We identified or confirmed several candidate genes for positive and negative selection in forest trees, including the pseudo‐response regulator 7 (PRR7), an essential component of the circadian clock in plants. In addition, we successfully tested an approach to detect polygenic adaptation in biological pathways, allowing us to identify the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway as a candidate stress‐response pathway that deserves further attention in other plants. Finally, our study contributes to the emerging view that explaining contemporary standing genetic variation requires considering adaptation to past climates, especially for long‐lived trees.
Functional and morphological evolution in gymnosperms: A portrait of implicated gene families
Authors: De La Torre Amanda R. , Piot Anthony , Liu Bobin , Wilhite Benjamin , Weiss Matthew , Porth Ilga
Published: July 2019

Gymnosperms diverged from their sister plant clade of flowering plants 300 Mya. Morphological and functional divergence between the two major seed plant clades involved significant changes in their reproductive biology, water‐conducting systems, secondary metabolism, stress defense mechanisms, and small RNA‐mediated epigenetic silencing. The relatively recent sequencing of several gymnosperm genomes and the development of new genomic resources have enabled whole‐genome comparisons within gymnosperms, and between angiosperms and gymnosperms. In this paper, we aim to understand how genes and gene families have contributed to the major functional and morphological differences in gymnosperms, and how this information can be used for applied breeding and biotechnology. In addition, we have analyzed the angiosperm versus gymnosperm evolution of the pleiotropic drug resistance (PDR) gene family with a wide range of functionalities in plants' interaction with their environment including defense mechanisms. Some of the genes reviewed here are newly studied members of gene families that hold potential for biotechnological applications related to commercial and pharmacological value. Some members of conifer gene families can also be exploited for their potential in phytoremediation applications.
Evidence on the direct correlation between miR‐31 and IL‐22 axis in IMQ‐induced psoriasis
Authors: Abdallah Florence , Pichon Chantal
Published: July 2019

Psoriatic skin is characterized by a deregulated profile of miRNAs that are contributing in disease development. In this study, we focus on miR‐31, one of the upregulated miRNAs known to promote keratinocytes proliferation and migration. Moreover, miR‐31 expression induction was dependent on a large panel of cytokines including IL‐22. Here, we aimed at investigating the relationship between miR‐31‐5p and IL‐22 axis; and by searching novel molecular target for miR‐31‐5p in keratinocytes. Our data identify a direct correlation between miR‐31‐5p and IL‐22 in psoriasis with Pwp1 as new potential target. These findings confirm the important role of miR‐31 in psoriasis onset and provide a basis for further investigations in miRNAs field in context of skin diseases.
Next‐generation sequencing of endoscopic ultrasound guided microbiopsies from pancreatic cystic neoplasms
Authors: Vestrup Rift Charlotte , Melchior Linea C , Kovacevic Bojan , Toxværd Anders , Klausen Pia , Karstensen John G , Kalaitzakis Evangelos , Storkholm Jan , Palnæs Hansen Carsten , Vilmann Peter , Preuss Hasselby Jane
Published: July 2019

Aims

Interpretation of cytology samples from pancreatic cysts is challenging. A novel microbiopsy forceps used during endoscopic ultrasound examinations offers new opportunities for histological examination of tissue from pancreatic cysts as well as next‐generation sequencing. The aim of this study was to analyse the results of next‐generation sequencing of microbiopsies from pancreatic cysts.

Methods and results

Microbiopsies from 27 patients were obtained, 23 of which were subjected to next‐generation sequencing. Sixteen intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms harboured mutations in genes regulating cell cycle and repair, and three were without mutations. Most frequent mutations were found in the KRAS and GNAS genes, and these were often concomitant. Three serous cystic neoplasms were without mutations, while with regard to histology, a non‐diagnostic microbiopsy harboured a KRAS and a TP53 mutation and was deemed malignant after clinical follow‐up. Three patients underwent surgery, and the point mutations detected in the microbiopsies were confirmed in the resected specimens. We identified one resected sample with an additional GNAS mutation which was not identified in the microbiopsy.

Conclusions

Next‐generation sequencing of microbiopsies may have the potential to improve diagnostic decision‐making.
Factors influencing the oral health‐related quality of life among children with severe early childhood caries in Hong Kong
Authors: Lai Sarah Hiu Fong , Wong Mildred Lok Wun , Wong Hai Ming , McGrath Colman P. J. , Yiu Cynthia Kar Yung
Published: July 2019

Objective

To assess the oral health‐related quality of life among Hong Kong preschool children with severe early childhood caries.

Methods

A total of 315 Hong Kong preschool children diagnosed with severe early childhood caries (S‐ECC) were recruited. Their caries and plaque status were evaluated. Their parents were asked to complete the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECHOIS) and a sociodemographic background questionnaire.

Results

There was a 98.7% response rate. The mean age was 4.7 ± 0.8 years. The mean decayed, missing and filled teeth (dmft) score was 10.2 ± 4.5. Almost all the children (98.7%) had decayed teeth. More than half of the children (61.4%) had a visible plaque index (VPI) score of above 90%. About one quarter (28.9%) were experiencing symptoms of pain. The dmft score of the child was significantly associated with the ECOHIS child impact, child function, family impact and family distress domains (P < .001). The presence of pain was significantly associated with increased ECOHIS child and family impact scores (P < .001). In the multiple regression analyses, the dmft score and presence of pain showed a significant association with the ECOHIS scores (P < .001).

Conclusion

The OHRQoL of children with S‐ECC was worsened with the presence of pain and severity of the disease. More measures need to be placed to decrease the prevalence of children with S‐ECC.
Dental treatment improves the oral health‐related quality of life of adolescents: A mixed‐methods approach
Authors: Maroneze Marília Cunha , Ardenghi Diego Machado , Brondani Mario , Unfer Beatriz , Ardenghi Thiago Machado
Published: July 2019

Aim

To evaluate and understand the impact of dental treatment on oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) of adolescents.

Design

A sequential explanatory mixed‐methods design was performed. A sample of 182 adolescents, aged 10 and 15 years old who had finished their dental treatment at adolescent dental clinic of Federal University of Santa Maria from 2010 to 2016, were included. Participants answered the short form of Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ11‐14) prior to their dental treatment and 1 month after concluding the treatment. The effect size was calculated to assess magnitude of change. In qualitative phase, semi‐structured interviews took place at the end of the dental treatment. Interviews were audio‐recorded and analyzed according to thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke.

Results

The effect sizes ranged from 0.35 to 1.00, and the oral symptom domain presented the greatest effect. Sixteen interviews were conducted and five themes emerged: concept of quality of life, oral health influenced by oral conditions, oral health symptoms influencing seeking care behavior, personal and subjective experiences, and dental educational environment.

Conclusion

Dental treatment has an uncountable meaning for adolescents because it has a psychosocial meaning in this phase of life and it is able to improve their OHRQoL.
Dissecting biodiversity in a global hotspot: Uneven dynamics of immigration and diversification within the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa
Authors: Wüest Rafael O. , Boucher Florian C. , Bouchenak‐Khelladi Yanis , Karger Dirk N. , Linder H. Peter
Published: July 2019

Aim

Fragmented distributions should show immigration and diversification dynamics consistent with the predictions of island biogeography theory. We test whether this applies to the fragmented Cape fynbos vegetation.

Location

Southern Africa, Cape Floristic Region (CFR).

Taxon

Angiosperms, Restionaceae (restios).

Methods

We used a large occurrence dataset and environmental layers to characterize an existing regionalization and the intervals between the regions ecologically and spatially. We extended the available phylogeny for restios and inferred their historical biogeography using models implemented in BioGeoBEARS. We then measured the relative contribution of immigration and in situ speciation to the species richness of each region within the CFR. We used standard statistical methods to test the predictions of the island biogeography theory.

Results

The area and environmental heterogeneity of the seven regions of the CFR are positively correlated with in situ speciation rate. Furthermore, more isolated areas, and areas colonized more recently, have proportionally higher immigration rates, and more central and older areas proportionally higher in situ speciation rates.

Main conclusions

The variation in immigration and diversification dynamics among the regions within the CFR is extensive and consistent with the archipelago model of island biography theory. This dynamic may contribute significantly to the diversity of the Cape flora. Such a model could be generally useful for understanding the generation and maintenance of diversity in biodiversity hotspots, and may even scale up to explain continental biodiversity.
Rapid niche shifts in introduced species can be a million times faster than changes among native species and ten times faster than climate change
Authors: Wiens John J. , Litvinenko Yuriy , Harris Lauren , Jezkova Tereza
Published: July 2019

Aims

As global temperatures rise, the survival of many species may hinge on whether they can shift their climatic niches quickly enough to avoid extinction. Previous analyses among species and populations suggest that species’ niches change far slower than rates of projected climate change. However, it is unclear how quickly niches can change over the timeframe most relevant to global warming (decades instead of thousands or millions of years). Here, we use data from introduced species to assess how quickly climatic niches can change over decadal timescales.

Location

Global.

Methods

We analyse climatic data from 76 reptile and amphibian species introduced into the USA. We test for a relationship between species climatic‐niche values in their native and introduced ranges. We also quantify niche shifts in introduced populations relative to their native ranges and the rate of change associated with these shifts. We then compare these rate estimates to those estimated among species and to projected rates of future climate change.

Results

Remarkably, niche shifts in introduced species are roughly a million times faster than niche shifts among species in their native ranges and roughly 10 times faster than rates of projected climate change.

Main conclusions

Our results demonstrate that dramatic and rapid niche shifts are possible, although these may be limited in species’ native ranges by biotic interactions and other factors.
Blood pressure trajectories and the mediated effects of body mass index and HIV‐related inflammation in a mixed cohort of people with and without HIV in rural Uganda
Authors: Okello Samson , Kim June‐Ho , Sentongo Ruth N. , Tracy Russell , Tsai Alexander C. , Kakuhikire Bernard , Siedner Mark J.
Published: July 2019

We sought to describe changes in blood pressure and estimate the effect of HIV on blood pressure (BP) over 4 years of observation in a cohort of 155 HIV‐infected adults (≥40 years) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 154 sex‐ and age‐quartile‐matched, population‐based, HIV‐uninfected controls for four years in rural Uganda, we compared changes in blood pressure (BP) by HIV serostatus and tested whether body mass index and inflammation (high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein and interleukin‐6) and immune activation (sCD14 and sCD163) mediated the effects of HIV on BP using hierarchical multivariate and two‐stage parametric regression models. Overall HIV‐uninfected participants had higher mean BP than HIV‐infected counterparts (differences in trend P < 0.0001 for diastolic BP and P = 0.164 for systolic BP). After initial declines in BP in both groups between years 1 and 2, BP moderately increased in both groups through year 4, with greater change over time observed in the HIV‐uninfected group. Body mass index mediated 72% (95%CI 57, 97) of the association between HIV and systolic BP. We found a minimal mediating effect of sCD14 on the relationship between HIV and SBP (9%, 95% CI 5%, 21%), but found no association between other HIV‐related biomarkers. Over four years of observation, HIV‐infected people in rural Uganda have lower BP than HIV‐uninfected counterparts despite having higher levels of inflammation. BMI, rather than measures of HIV‐associated inflammation, explained a majority of the difference in BP observed.
Qishen Yiqi Drop Pill, a novel compound Chinese traditional medicine protects against high glucose‐induced injury in cardiomyocytes
Authors: Zhang Shouyan , Wang Hao , Li Lixia , Chang Xuewei , Ma Huifang , Zhang Mingming , Qing Xiaochun , Zhang Lijun , Zhang Zhuo
Published: July 2019

Objective

Qishen Yiqi Drop Pill (QSYQ) has been recognized as a potential protective agent for various cardiovascular diseases. However, the effect of QSYQ in cardiac complications associated with diabetes is not clear currently. In this study, we investigate whether QSYQ could exert cardiac protective effects against high glucose‐induced injuries in cardiac H9c2 cells.

Methods

H9c2 cells were exposed to 24 hours of high glucose in presence or absence of QSYQ and LY294002. Cell cytotoxicity, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening were determined. Levels of bax, bcl‐2, p53, cleaved caspase‐3, PI3K and Akt were evaluated by Western blot.

Results

Our data indicated that QSYQ significantly increased the cell viability and decreased cytotoxicity. By analysing the apoptotic rate as well as the expression levels of cytoapoptosis‐related factors including cleaved caspase‐3, bax, bcl‐2, and p53, we found that QSYQ could remarkably suppress apoptosis of cardiomyoblasts caused by high glucose. In addition, it also showed that QSYQ reduced the generation of ROS. We further found that QSYQ treatment could inhibit the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and mPTP opening. Moreover, Western blot analysis showed enhanced phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt. The specific inhibitor of PI3K, LY294002 not only inhibited QSYQ induced PI3K/Akt signalling pathway activation, but alleviated its protective effects.

Conclusions

In summary, these findings demonstrated that QSYQ effectively protected H9c2 cells against the series injuries due to high glucose at least partially by activating the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway.
May the (selective) force be with you: Spatial sorting and natural selection exert opposing forces on limb length in an invasive amphibian
Authors: Clarke Gregory S. , Shine Richard , Phillips Benjamin L.
Published: July 2019

Spatial sorting on invasion fronts drives the evolution of dispersive phenotypes, and in doing so can push phenotypes in the opposite direction to natural selection. The invasion of cane toads (Rhinella marina) through tropical Australia has accelerated over recent decades because of the accumulation of dispersal‐enhancing traits at the invasion front, driven by spatial sorting. One such trait is the length of the forelimbs: invasion‐front toads have longer arms (relative to body length) in comparison with populations 10–20 years after invasion. Such a shift likely has fitness consequences: an increase of forearm length would decrease the strength with which a male could cling to a female during amplexus and so render such a male less competitive in competition for mates, compared to short‐armed conspecifics. Our laboratory trials of attachment strength confirmed that males with relatively longer arms were easier to displace, and competition trials show higher duration of amplexus for males with shorter arms. Together with the sharp cline in limb length observed behind the invasion front, these results imply an opposition of selective forces: spatial sorting optimizes dispersal, but as this force wanes behind the invasion front, we see the primacy of natural selection reassert itself.
Temperature coupling of mate attraction signals and female mate preferences in four populations of Enchenopa treehopper (Hemiptera: Membracidae)
Authors: Jocson Dowen Mae I. , Smeester Morgan E. , Leith Noah T. , Macchiano Anthony , Fowler‐Finn Kasey D.
Published: July 2019

Variation in temperature can affect the expression of a variety of important fitness‐related behaviours, including those involved with mate attraction and selection, with consequences for the coordination of mating across variable environments. We examined how temperature influences the expression of male mating signals and female mate preferences—as well as the relationship between how male signals and female mate preferences change across temperatures (signal–preference temperature coupling)—in Enchenopa binotata treehoppers. These small plant‐feeding insects communicate using plantborne vibrations, and our field surveys indicate they experience significant natural variation in temperature during the mating season. We tested for signal–preference temperature coupling in four populations of E. binotata by manipulating temperature in a controlled laboratory environment. We measured the frequency of male signals—the trait for which females show strongest preference—and female peak preference—the signal frequency most preferred by females—across a range of biologically relevant temperatures (18°C–36°C). We found a strong effect of temperature on both male signals and female preferences, which generated signal–preference temperature coupling within each population. Even in a population in which male signals mismatched female preferences, the temperature coupling reinforces predicted directional selection across all temperatures. Additionally, we found similar thermal sensitivity in signals and preferences across populations even though populations varied in the mean frequency of male signals and female peak preference. Together, these results suggest that temperature variation should not affect the action of sexual selection via female choice, but rather should reinforce stabilizing selection in populations with signal–preference matches, and directional selection in those with signal–preference mismatches. Finally, we do not predict that thermal variation will disrupt the coordination of mating in this species by generating signal–preference mismatches at thermal extremes.
Helmet‐shaped Body of Entodiniomorphid Ciliates (Ciliophora, Entodiniomorphida), a Synapomorphy or a Homoplasy?
Authors: Cedrola Franciane , Senra Marcus Vinicius , D'Agosto Marta , Dias Roberto Júnio Pedroso
Published: July 2019

Triadinium was created to include Triadinium caudatum. Further, four other species were included, T. minimum, T. galea, T. elongatum, and T. magnum, all sharing a characteristic helmet‐shaped body. Wolska and Grain argued that the inclusion of T. minimum and T. galea into Triadinium was done based on superficial morphological aspects, and established two new genera to accommodate these species: Circodinium and Gassovskiella. Although the phylogenetic relationships within Entodiniomorphida have been investigated by multiple authors, none of them discussed the evolutionary relationship of helmet‐shaped entodiniomorphids. We performed molecular phylogenetics and revisited old literature digging for morphological data to explain our results. According to our analyses, the helmet‐shaped body is homoplastic and may have evolved from at least three different entodiniomorphid ancestors. Circodinium minimum is phylogenetically related to members of Blepharocorythidae, T. caudatum emerged within Spirodiniidae and G. galea within Polydiniellidae. This phylogenetic hypothesis is partially supported by information on infraciliature and ultrastructure of C. minimum and T. caudatum. However, such morphological information is not available for polydiniellids. In order to shed some light into the evolution of the helmet‐shaped ciliates, future works should focus to collect information on the infraciliature and the ultrastructure of Polydiniella mysorea and of other Triadinium species.