bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of biological pathways specific to phases preceding rheumatoid arthritis development through gene expression profiling
Authors: Dalmasso Cyril , Derbois Céline , Veyssiere Maëva , Olaso Robert , Lamacchia Céline , Alpizar‐Rodriguez Deshiré , Deleuze Jean‐François , Finckh Axel , Petit‐Teixeira Elisabeth
Published: January 2021

The etiopathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis is partially understood; however, it is believed to result from a multi‐step process. The immune onset followed by pre‐clinical phases will eventually lead to the development of symptomatic disease. We aim at identifying differentially expressed genes in order to highlight pathways involved in the pre‐clinical stages of rheumatoid arthritis development. The study population consisted of first‐degree relatives of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, known to have an increased risk of developing disease as compared to the general population. Whole transcriptome analysis was performed in four groups: asymptomatic without autoantibodies or symptoms associated with possible rheumatoid arthritis (controls); having either clinically suspect arthralgias, undifferentiated arthritis or autoimmunity associated with RA (pre‐clinical stages of RA:Pcs‐RA); having subsequently developed classifiable RA (pre‐RA); and early untreated rheumatoid arthritis patients (RA). Differentially expressed genes were determined, and enrichment analysis was performed. Functional enrichment analysis revealed 31 pathways significantly enriched in differentially expressed genes for Pcs‐RA, pre‐RA and RA compared to the controls. Osteoclast pathway is among the seven pathways specific for RA. In Pcs‐RA and in pre‐RA, several enriched pathways include TP53 gene connections, such as P53 and Wnt signalling pathways. Analysis of whole transcriptome for phenotypes related to rheumatoid arthritis allows highlighting which pathways are requested in the pre‐clinical stages of disease development. After validation in replication studies, molecules belonging to some of these pathways could be used to identify new specific biomarkers for individuals with impending rheumatoid arthritis.
De‐coding genetic risk variants in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Shapiro Melanie R , Thirawatananond Puchong , Peters Leeana , Sharp Robert C , Ogundare Similoluwa , Posgai Amanda L , Perry Daniel J , Brusko Todd M
Published: January 2021

The conceptual basis for a genetic predisposition underlying the risk for developing type 1 diabetes (T1D) predates modern human molecular genetics. Over half of the genetic risk has been attributed to the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II gene region and to the insulin (INS) gene locus – both thought to confer direction of autoreactivity and tissue specificity. Notwithstanding, questions still remain regarding the functional contributions of a vast array of minor polygenic risk variants scattered throughout the genome that likely influence disease heterogeneity and clinical outcomes. Herein, we summarize the available literature related to the T1D‐associated coding variants defined at the time of this review, for the genes PTPN22, IFIH1, SH2B3, CD226, TYK2, FUT2, SIRPG, CTLA4, CTSH and UBASH3A. Data from genotype‐selected human cohorts are summarized, and studies from the non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mouse are presented to describe the functional impact of these variants in relation to innate and adaptive immunity as well as to β‐cell fragility, with expression profiles in tissues and peripheral blood highlighted. The contribution of each variant to progression through T1D staging, including environmental interactions, are discussed with consideration of how their respective protein products may serve as attractive targets for precision medicine‐based therapeutics to prevent or suspend the development of T1D.
Regulatory B cells: TIM‐1, transplant tolerance, and rejection
Authors: Cherukuri Aravind , Mohib Kanishka , Rothstein David M.
Published: January 2021

Regulatory B cells (Bregs) ameliorate autoimmune disease and prevent allograft rejection. Conversely, they hinder effective clearance of pathogens and malignancies. Breg activity is mainly attributed to IL‐10 expression, but also utilizes additional regulatory mechanisms such as TGF‐β, FasL, IL‐35, and TIGIT. Although Bregs are present in various subsets defined by phenotypic markers (including canonical B cell subsets), our understanding of Bregs has been limited by the lack of a broadly inclusive and specific phenotypic or transcriptional marker. TIM‐1, a broad marker for Bregs first identified in transplant models, plays a major role in Breg maintenance and induction. Here, we expand on the role of TIM‐1+ Bregs in immune tolerance and propose TIM‐1 as a unifying marker for Bregs that utilize various inhibitory mechanisms in addition to IL‐10. Further, this review provides an in‐depth assessment of our understanding of Bregs in transplantation as elucidated in murine models and clinical studies. These studies highlight the major contribution of Bregs in preventing allograft rejection, and their ability to serve as highly predictive biomarkers for clinical transplant outcomes.
Potassium, an important element to improve water use efficiency and growth parameters in quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) under saline conditions
Authors: Turcios Ariel E. , Papenbrock Jutta , Tränkner Merle
Published: January 2021

Due to changes in the ecosystem and misuse of resources, salinity also increases. Approximately 20% of all irrigated land is affected by salinity and this will increase over time. Therefore, it is necessary to develop more environmentally friendly agricultural techniques but also to exploit potential crops with high nutritional value and tolerance to salinity like quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.). In this context, potassium is an essential macronutrient for plant growth and development. Furthermore, one of the strategies of some salt‐tolerant plants is to increase the uptake of potassium under saline conditions such that the K+/Na+ ratio is maintained for a proper osmotic regulation in cells. Therefore, a study was conducted to investigate the effect of different concentrations of potassium (0.5, 2 and 6 mM K) on quinoa under different salinities (0, 100 and 200 mM NaCl). According to the results, an adequate supply of potassium under moderate salinity conditions benefited the plant growth, with a higher potassium uptake in the presence of salt. Under saline conditions, plant transpiration decreased significantly with a high correlation with stomatal density and a greater water use efficiency. Therefore, under saline conditions, adequate doses of potassium are highly recommended in quinoa cultivation.
Effect of intensive care unit diary on incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression of adult intensive care unit survivors: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sun Xihui , Huang Debin , Zeng Fan , Ye Qiao , Xiao Huineng , Lv Deping , Zhao Ping , Cui Xueting
Published: January 2021

Aim

To systematically evaluate the effect of intensive care unit diary psychotherapy on the incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression after discharge from intensive care unit.

Background

Many studies have reported the potential advantages and risks of intensive care unit diary psychotherapy in adult patients discharged from intensive care unit, but the results are divergent.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis of prospective randomized controlled or case‐controlled studies.

Data source

Databases such as Cochran Library, Pubmed, Embase, CINAHL, and ProQuest databases, China national knowledge infrastructure (CNKI) were searched for literatures published from January 2000–March 2020.

Review methods

We use the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for quality assessment and audit manager 5.3 software for meta‐analysis. The main result is the incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression.

Results

Ten studies meeting the inclusion criteria were identified, including eight randomized controlled studies and two case‐controlled studies, with a total of 1,210 patients. The pooled results of this meta‐analysis indicated that the intensive care unit diary could reduce the incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression.

Conclusion

This study showed that an intensive care unit diary could improve the psychological symptoms of adult intensive care unit patients after discharge. However, due to limitations such as publication bias and case sample size, the results should be carefully considered. Researchers need to further clarify the multidisciplinary collaborative process of intensive care unit diary therapy, the real beneficiaries, and its impact on family members' psychological status by conducting large, robust studies in the future.

Impact

This study's findings suggest that medical staff need to re‐examine the role of intensive care unit diary therapy, its standardized implementation and provide effective intervention for reducing psychological stress‐related symptoms of intensive care unit patients after discharge.
Association between illness perception and health behaviour among stroke patients: The mediation effect of coping style
Authors: Liu Yanjin , Wei Miao , Guo Lina , Guo Yuanli , Zhu Yiru , He Yv
Published: January 2021

Aims

This study aims to explore illness perception and coping style in relation to health behaviour and the mediating role of coping style between illness perception and health behaviour among stroke patients.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

This survey was conducted with 515 stroke patients aged ≥18 years from September 2019 to January 2020 in Zhengzhou, China. The demographic and clinical characteristics questionnaire, Stroke Illness Perception Questionnaire‐Revised, Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire, and Health Behavior Scale for Stroke Patients were included in this study. Data analysis was performed by correlation analysis, multiple linear regression analysis, and structural equation modelling.

Results

The valid questionnaires were 495 (effective response rate: 96.1%). Low negative illness perception, high positive coping style, and low negative coping style are related to high level of health promoting behaviour (all p < 0.01). The results revealed that the effect of illness perception on health behaviour was partly mediated by coping style. It also confirmed that the mediation effect accounts for 43.7% (−0.169/−0.387) of the total effect.

Conclusion

Illness perception may influence health behaviour partly because of coping style.

Impact

This study implies that targeted interventions for stroke patients' illness perception are needed to motivate them to take proactive coping strategy to ultimately improve their health behaviours.
Health and service use of newcomers and other adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A population‐based study
Authors: Durbin Anna , Jung James K. H. , Chung Hannah , Lin Elizabeth , Balogh Robert , Lunsky Yona
Published: January 2021

Background

This study examines newcomers with intellectual and developmental disabilities compared to other adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Ontario, Canada.

Methods

This population‐based retrospective cohort study used linked health and social services administrative data to identify adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as newcomers, or non‐newcomers, and compared their health status and health service outcomes.

Results

Among those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, compared to non‐newcomers, newcomers generally had lower or similar rates of health issues, except for higher rates of psychosis. Newcomers also had slightly greater use of community‐based health services, but less hospital use.

Conclusion

Trends among those with the intellectual and developmental disabilities were consistent with general population trends; newcomers had lower rates of many health issues and lower hospital use. It also underscores the value of understanding drivers of heterogeneity within newcomers, such as the circumstances of admission and settlement in their new country.
A novel treatment for esophageal lesions following atrial fibrillation ablation
Authors: Rivarola Esteban W. R. , Moura Eduardo , Chou Marco , Feitosa Seabra Luciana , Hardy Carina , Scanavacca Mauricio
Published: January 2021

This study presents a novel technique for the treatment of a deep esophageal ulcer after ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). Pulmonary vein isolation was performed using a radiofrequency irrigated tip catheter. On Day 5 of follow‐up, a deep esophageal ulcer was observed. No significant visual improvement was observed after conventional treatment. Endoscopic negative pressure therapy in the esophagus was then applied for 5 days. A significant decrease in diameter and depth of the lesion was observed, possibly preventing perforation. Endoscopic negative pressure therapy can be used to heal thermal lesions after AF ablation procedures.
Feasibility of intraprocedural integration of cardiac CT to guide left ventricular lead implantation for CRT upgrades
Authors: Gould Justin , Sidhu Baldeep S. , Sieniewicz Benjamin J. , Porter Bradley , Lee Angela W. C. , Razeghi Orod , Behar Jonathan M. , Mehta Vishal , Elliott Mark K. , Toth Daniel , Haberland Ulrike , Razavi Reza , Rajani Ronak , Niederer Steven , Rinaldi Christopher A.
Published: January 2021

Background

Optimal positioning of the left ventricular (LV) lead is an important determinant of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) response.

Objective

Evaluate the feasibility of intraprocedural integration of cardiac computed tomography (CT) to guide LV lead implantation for CRT upgrades.

Methods

Patients undergoing LV lead upgrade underwent ECG‐gated cardiac CT dyssynchrony and LV scar assessment. Target American Heart Association segment selection was determined using latest non‐scarred mechanically activating segments overlaid onto real‐time fluoroscopy with image co‐registration to guide optimal LV lead implantation. Hemodynamic validation was performed using a pressure wire in the LV cavity (dP/dtmax)).

Results

18 patients (male 94%, 55.6% ischemic cardiomyopathy) with RV pacing burden 60.0 ± 43.7% and mean QRS duration 154 ± 30 ms underwent cardiac CT. 10/10 ischemic patients had CT evidence of scar and these segments were excluded as targets. Seventeen out of 18 (94%) patients underwent successful LV lead implantation with delivery to the CT target segment in 15 out of 18 (83%) of patients. Acute hemodynamic response (dP/dtmax ≥ 10%) was superior with LV stimulation in CT target versus nontarget segments (83.3% vs. 25.0%; p = .012). Reverse remodeling at 6 months (LV end‐systolic volume improvement ≥15%) occurred in 60% of subjects (4/8 [50.0%] ischemic cardiomyopathy vs. 5/7 [71.4%] nonischemic cardiomyopathy, p = .608).

Conclusion

Intraprocedural integration of cardiac CT to guide optimal LV lead placement is feasible with superior hemodynamics when pacing in CT target segments and favorable volumetric response rates, despite a high proportion of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. Multicentre, randomized controlled studies are needed to evaluate whether intraprocedural integration of cardiac CT is superior to standard care.
Ventricular fibrillation in a left ventricular assist device patient: Can the echocardiogram be misleading?
Authors: Singh Manavotam , Malik Nitin , Brar Vijaywant , Bering Patrick T. , Hadadi Cyrus , Sheikh Farooq H. , Lam Phillip H.
Published: January 2021

Sustained ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation (VF) are life‐threatening arrhythmias which remain highly prevalent in patients with advanced heart failure. These ventricular arrhythmias may impair the support provided by continuous‐flow left ventricular assist devices (CF‐LVADs) and lead to frequent hospitalizations, antiarrhythmic medication use, external defibrillations, and need for heart transplantation. We report a case in which a patient with a CF‐LVAD and an implantable cardioverter defibrillator at end of life presented with asymptomatic low‐flow alarms and was found to have VF of unknown duration. Unique in our case was the presence of apparent organized contractility and rhythmic opening of the mitral valve on echocardiogram despite VF on electrocardiogram.
Cardiac troponin release following left bundle branch pacing
Authors: Ponnusamy Shunumuga S. , Patel Neil R. , Naperkowski Angela , Subzposh Faiz A. , Vijayaraman Pugazhendhi
Published: January 2021

Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) has emerged as an alternative to His bundle pacing (HBP) to achieve physiologic ventricular stimulation. The extent of myocardial injury during permanent LBBP implantation is currently not known. The aim of the study was to prospectively assess the extent of myocardial injury during LBBP implantation. Cardiac troponin (cTn) levels were measured at baseline and 6–12 h following permanent LBBP. The number of attempts to achieve LBBP was documented. Troponin levels were measured in a control population undergoing other electrophysiology procedures including HBP, other devices involving right ventricular (RV) pacing, radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). Significant elevation of troponin (SET) was defined as threefold increase above the upper reference limit (URL) for cTn. Between December 2019 and April 2020, 204 were prospectively enrolled: LBBP in 98 and Control group 106 (SVT, 55; AF, 20; HBP, 17; other devices, 14). SET (>3× URL) was seen in 49.4% of patients in the LBBP group compared to 58.4% in the control group (p = .23). Peak troponin levels were greater in the control group compared to the LBBP group (230.3 ± 320.1 vs. 87.4 ± 71.3 pg/ml; p = .0001). Compared to LBBP (49.4%), SET was observed less frequently following HBP (17.5%; p = .01), and other device implantation (29%; p = .15). Patients requiring >2 attempts (n = 33) had significantly higher incidence of SET compared to <2 attempts (n = 56; 66.7% vs. 39.3%; p = .01). LBBP implantation is associated with myocardial injury. Asymptomatic troponin release following LBBP is less than or comparable to other interventional electrophysiology procedures.
Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation using ablation index‐guided high‐power technique: Frankfurt AI high‐power 15‐month follow‐up
Authors: Chen Shaojie , Schmidt Boris , Bordignon Stefano , Tohoku Shota , Urban Verena C. , Schulte‐Hahn Britta , Chun K. R. Julian
Published: January 2021

Background

Radiofrequency (RF) high‐power ablation appears to be a novel concept in treating atrial fibrillation (AF). The ablation‐index (AI) has been linked with the durability of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). To report the midterm clinical results of a new ablation strategy using AI‐guided high‐power (50 W) ablation (AI‐HP).

Methods and Results

Symptomatic AF patients were included and underwent wide‐area circumferential PVI. Contact‐force catheters were used, RF power was set to 50 W targeting AI values (550/400 for anterior/posterior) and interlesion distance 6 mm. Luminal esophageal temperature (LET) was monitored during the procedure; patients with LET ≥39°C underwent post‐ablation esophageal‐endoscopy. Seventy‐two‐hour‐Holter ECGs were scheduled during follow‐up. Procedural PVI was achieved in all (N = 122; mean age, 68.2 years; male, 71.3%) patients, rate of first‐pass PVI was 96.7% per patient. Procedural mean RF time was 11.5 min, and mean RF time during posterior wall segment was 3.1 min. Per RF‐lesion, the mean contact force, RF duration, AI, and impedance‐drop at anterior/posterior wall were 26 ± 14 g/23 ± 12 g, 16.2 ± 7.5 s/8.8 ± 3.6 s, 552 ± 53/438 ± 47, and 13 ± 6 Ω/9 ± 5 Ω, respectively. Mean PVI procedural‐time, 55.8 min; mean procedural fluoroscopic time, 5.6 min. Three (2.5%) patients had asymptomatic endoscopic small erosion/erythema esophageal lesions, no serious adverse events were observed. During a 15‐month follow‐up, overall single‐procedure freedom from clinical recurrence of AF/atrial tachycardia (AT) off antiarrhythmic drug after blanking period was 85.2% (89.4% for paroxysmal AF, 80.4% for persistent AF).

Conclusion

The AI‐HP (50 W) appears as an efficient ablation technique in treating AF and leads to a high single‐procedure arrhythmia‐free survival at 15 months.
Telemedicine in the management of hypertension: Evolving technological platforms for blood pressure telemonitoring
Authors: Wang Ji‐Guang , Li Yan , Chia Yook‐Chin , Cheng Hao‐Min , Minh Huynh Van , Siddique Saulat , Sogunuru Guru Prasad , Tay Jam Chin , Teo Boon Wee , Tsoi Kelvin , Turana Yuda , Wang Tzung‐Dau , Zhang Yu‐Qing , Kario Kazuomi ,   the Hypertension Cardiovascular Outcome Prevention, Evidence (HOPE) Asia Network
Published: January 2021

The prevalence of hypertension is high and still increasing in almost all communities regardless of high, middle, or low income. The control rate remains low in most countries. Telemedicine offers possibilities to improve blood pressure control. The past two decades witnessed the fast evolving telecommunication from telephone transmission to smart mobile phone technology for telemedicine. There is some evidence from randomized controlled trials that telemonitoring improves blood pressure control. However, it requires co‐interventions. The emerging new technology may offer even more possibilities in telemonitoring and co‐interventions, for instance, an interactive platform between patients and health professionals for the management of hypertension. Telemedicine might ultimately change the situation of the unsatisfactory management of hypertension in many communities. It helps fully utilize antihypertensive treatment, the most effective cardiovascular prevention, to achieve the goal of ending atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis in humans.
The phenotypic and functional study of tissue B cells in respiratory system provided important information for diseases and development of vaccines
Authors: Fan Li , Wu Qiongli , Kang Shuangpeng , Yang Binyan , Wu Changyou
Published: January 2021

The field of tissue‐resident B cells has received increasing attention, yet the feature of tissue B cells in respiratory system is unclear. Here, we first show that non‐circulating B cells obtained from nasal, trachea and lung tissues are numerically and phenotypically distinct from their circulating counterparts. Analysis of single cell transcriptome sequence identified multiple differentially expressed genes between non‐circulating B cells and circulating B cells, which illustrated their heterogeneity. Furthermore, we found high expression of CXCR3 on non‐circulating B cells, and the chemokine CXCL11 was also up‐regulated in the respiratory tissues, suggesting that CXCR3‐CXCL11 axis might accelerate the local resident of non‐circulating B cells in respiratory tract. Interestingly, intranasal immunization with BCG in mice elicited a sustained humoral immune response via induction of IgA and IgG Abs, which revealed the role of B cells. Meanwhile, tissue‐resident B cells, IgA+ and IgG+ memory B cells (MBCs) in respiratory tissues, as well as plasma cells in bone marrow, were expanded and maintained, and these subsets probably developed into antibody‐producing cells to participate in the local humoral immunity. Our data illustrate the phenotype and function of tissue B cells in the upper and lower airways, provide references for the prospective development of vaccines.
The influence of the interaction between staging, grading and extent on tooth loss due to periodontitis
Authors: Ravidà Andrea , Qazi Musa , Rodriguez Maria V. , Galli Matthew , Saleh Muhammad H. A. , Troiano Giuseppe , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: January 2021

Aim

To assess the ability of two‐way interactions between baseline stage, grade and extent to predict tooth loss due to periodontitis (TLP) over a long‐term follow‐up period.

Materials and Methods

Patients treated for periodontal disease with a complete medical history, baseline periodontal chart, full mouth radiographs and a minimum of ≥10 years follow‐up were recruited. Supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) visits were recorded during the entire follow‐up period. Patients were categorized according to their stage, grade and extent. The absolute survival at 10‐, 20‐, and 30‐year follow‐up was calculated for TLP. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were plotted at the tooth‐level and multilevel Cox regression frailty models were constructed in order to assess the association among predictive variables and TLP by taking into account the hierarchical patient‐teeth structure.

Results

442 patients (11,125 teeth) with a mean follow‐up of 23 years met the inclusion criteria and were included in this study. The most prevalent diagnosis at baseline was stage III grade B (30.3%), followed by stage II grade B (23.5%). Among the parameters analysed, stage and grade were found to be the best predictors of TLP. Statistically significant differences were observed for extent only in patients with severe disease (stage IV or grade C). The multilevel Cox regression analysis demonstrated that patients with higher concomitant baseline staging and grading developed greater TLP over the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

Higher concomitant staging and grading corresponded to greater risk for TLP and generalized extent only became a significant predictor in patients with stage IV or grade C disease.
The evolution of red blood cell shape in fishes
Authors: Martins Brenda Oliveira , Franco‐Belussi Lilian , Siqueira Mayara Schueroff , Fernandes Carlos E. , Provete Diogo B.
Published: January 2021

The size and shape of red blood cells (RBCs) provide key information on life‐history strategies in vertebrates. However, little is known about how RBC shape evolved in response to environmental factors, body size and the role of evolutionary rate. Here, we analysed RBC morphometrics in a set of Teleostei (bony fishes) and Elasmobranchii (sharks and rays) species testing the hypothesis that phylogenetic relationship explains species occupation of morphospace. We collected data on cell and nucleus area and volume, nucleus:cytoplasm ratio and shape factor for 65 species belonging to 28 orders. Then, we built phylomorphospaces separately for bony fish and sharks and rays. To test whether phylogenetic relationships predicted phenotypic similarity, we calculated multivariate phylogenetic signal. We also estimated the evolutionary rate of RBC shape for each node and tip using ridge regression. Finally, we tested whether habitat and body size influenced RBC shape using a PGLS. We found a significant phylogenetic signal in RBC shape for bony fish, but not sharks and rays. Saltwater teleost species were more clustered than freshwater ones in the phylomorphospace, suggesting clade disparity. Accordingly, the rate of evolution was highly heterogeneous, with significant decrease in Acanthopterygii. Neither habitat nor body size influenced RBC shape. In conclusion, RBC shape seems to have evolved in fishes in response to multiple selective pressures independent of life‐history characters.
The role of the environment in the spatial dynamics of an extensive hybrid zone between two neotropical cats
Authors: Sartor Caroline Charão , Cushman Samuel Alan , Wan Ho Yi , Kretschmer Rafael , Pereira Javier A. , Bou Nadia , Cosse Mariana , González Susana , Eizirik Eduardo , de Freitas Thales Renato O. , Trigo Tatiane Campos
Published: January 2021

Identifying factors that create and maintain a hybrid zone is of great interest to ecology, evolution and, more recently, conservation biology. Here, we investigated the role of environmental features in shaping the spatial dynamics of a hybrid zone between the southern tigrina, Leopardus guttulus, and Geoffroy's cat, L. geoffroyi, testing for exogenous selection as the main force acting on its maintenance. These Neotropical felid species are mainly allopatric, with a restricted area of sympatry in the ecotone between the Atlantic Forest and Pampa biomes. As both biomes have experienced high rates of anthropogenic habitat alteration, we also analysed the influence of habitat conversion on the hybrid zone structure. To do this, we used 13 microsatellite loci to identify potential hybrids and generated ecological niche models for them and their parental species. We compared the influence of variables on parental species and hybrid occurrence and calculated the amount of niche overlap among them. Parental species showed different habitat requirements and predicted co‐occurrence was restricted to the forest‐grassland mosaic of the ecotone. However, hybrids were found beyond this area, mainly in the range of L. geoffroyi. Hybrids demonstrated higher tolerance to habitat alteration than parental types, with a probability of occurrence that was positively related with mosaics of cropland areas and remnants of natural vegetation. These results indicate that exogenous selection alone does not drive the dynamics of the hybrid zone, and that habitat conversion influences its structure, potentially favouring hybrids over parental species.
Interspecific and intraspecific comparisons reveal the importance of evolutionary context in sunfish brain form divergence
Authors: Axelrod Caleb J. , Laberge Frédéric , Robinson Beren W.
Published: January 2021

Habitats can select for specialized phenotypic characteristics in animals. However, the consistency of evolutionary responses to particular environmental conditions remains difficult to predict. One trait of great ecological importance is brain form, which is expected to vary between habitats that differ in their cognitive requirements. Here, we compared divergence in brain form and oral jaw size across a common littoral–pelagic ecological axis in two sunfishes at both the intraspecific and interspecific levels. Brain form differed between habitats at every level of comparison; however, divergence was inconsistent, despite consistent differences in oral jaw size. Pumpkinseed and bluegill species differed in cerebellum, optic tectum and olfactory bulb size. These differences are consistent with a historical ecological divergence because they did not manifest between littoral and pelagic ecotypes within either species, suggesting constraints on changes to these regions over short evolutionary time scales. There were also differences in brain form between conspecific ecotypes, but they were inconsistent between species. Littoral pumpkinseed had larger brains than their pelagic counterpart, and littoral bluegill had smaller telencephalons than their pelagic counterpart. Inconsistent brain form divergence between conspecific ecotypes of pumpkinseed and bluegill sharing a common littoral–pelagic habitat axis suggests that contemporary ecological conditions and historic evolutionary context interact to influence evolutionary changes in brain form in fishes.
Frequency of vateritic otoliths and potential consequences for marine survival in hatchery‐reared Atlantic salmon
Authors: Austad Benedikte , Vøllestad L. Asbjørn , Foldvik Anders
Published: January 2021

Otoliths are inner‐ear structures of all teleost fish with functional importance for hearing and balance. The otoliths usually consist of aragonite, a polymorph of calcium carbonate, but may also take the form partly or entirely of vaterite, a different polymorph of calcium carbonate. Vateritic otoliths occur sporadically in wild fish, but with a higher frequency in hatchery‐reared fish. Abnormal otoliths have direct consequences for the inner‐ear functions of fish and may be a symptom of environmental stress. In this study, the authors assess the differences in the frequency of abnormal otoliths and degree of abnormality (% vaterite) for different groups of hatchery‐reared Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) smolt and adults. The groups differed in parental broodstock origin (number of generations in hatchery) and treatment temperature. Smolt from the same groups were also released to complete their ocean migration. The otoliths of the returning and recaptured adults were subsequently extracted to assess the difference in frequency and degree of abnormality between the adults and the smolt from corresponding groups. Return rate varied among groups (0.2%–2.6%). The frequency of vateritic otoliths was high (11.4%–64.4%) and differed among smolt groups. The lowest return rates corresponded with the highest frequency of abnormal otoliths for the groups, suggesting that abnormal otoliths may have negative consequences for marine survival. Furthermore, indications of an effect of fast growth on the formation of abnormal otoliths were found for only one of the experimental groups, and for none of the groups after correcting for Type 1 error. This contradicts previous reports, suggesting rapid growth as the main cause of abnormal otoliths. Adult return rates were generally low, but abnormal otoliths were common, with high coverage (% vaterite).
Exposure to a common urban pollutant affects the survival and swimming behaviour of creek chub (Semotilus atromaculatus)
Authors: Bunt Christopher M. , Jacobson Bailey
Published: January 2021

Anthropogenic effects on the aquatic environment are ever present and ever increasing and while a plethora of aquatic contaminants are known to affect fishes, one ubiquitous and increasingly prevalent world‐wide urban runoff pollutant is frequently disregarded, and that is pet waste. While dog waste has been identified as a significant factor contributing to bacteria and nutrient loading within receiving waters and the associated water quality changes are known to affect fishes, the impact of uncollected dog faeces on urban fish populations has never been directly investigated. In this study we exposed creek chub (Semotilus atromaculatus), a widespread tolerant stream minnow, to various realistic concentrations of dog waste as simulated urban park runoff testing both fresh and dried dog faeces in both stagnant and aerated water for 96 h to investigate the impact on fish survival and behaviour. Creek chub percentage mortality increased significantly relative to controls and across an exposure gradient and was likely caused by anoxic conditions. Survivors were initially smaller while those that died were initially larger and presented with abnormal abdominal subdermal lesions post‐exposure. Additional indicators of physiological stress included significantly increased rates of aquatic surface respiration and changes in flume test derived swimming motivation metrics with increased exposure concentrations. Both mortality and behavioural responses were alleviated by aeration. Furthermore, trials with fresh and dried faeces differed only in time‐to‐death and swimming metrics where results from dried trials were similar to those from aerated experiments. Results demonstrated the impact that the global dog waste management problem can have on aquatic communities with effects on creek chub likely to be more severe for less pollution‐tolerant species and also likely to be exacerbated under future scenarios that consider climate change and increased urbanization.
Genetic homogeneity coupled with morphometric variability suggests high phenotypic plasticity in the sea louse Caligus rogercresseyi (Boxshall and Bravo, 2000), infecting farmed salmon (Salmo salar) along a wide latitudinal range in southern Chile
Authors: González María Teresa , Leiva Natalia Verónica , Sepúlveda Fabiola , Asencio Gladys , Baeza Juan Antonio
Published: January 2021

The sea louse Caligus rogercresseyi is the most important pathogen causing “caligidosis” in the Chilean salmon industry. In this study, using cox1 gene, we evaluate the genetic variation of C. rogercresseyi from farmed Salmo salar along a latitudinal range (40°–52°S) in south Chile to determine whether morphological differences are explained by genetic or environmental factors. Female parasites were randomly collected from S. salar at five farms. Body variation was examined using multivariate analyses and genetic heterogeneity was explored with AMOVA. C. rogercresseyi exhibited significant morphometric variability among sites and parasites collected from >54°S were the longest ones. Parasites did not show genetic structure among farms. Thus, C. rogercresseyi infesting salmons is panmictic along an extensive latitudinal range in south Chile. The same genetic pattern can be explained by the frequent movement of parasitized S. salar among farms in that region. Phenotypic plasticity in parasites could be explained by natural or aquaculture‐mediated environment variability. C. rogercreseyi from 54°S could favor the local spread of this disease, suggesting an immediate health risk for the recent salmon industry in that region. Further research is required to confirm genetic homogeneity of this parasite along its geographical distribution using more powerful markers (e.g. SNPs).
Clinical and Neuroimaging Manifestations of Erdheim–Chester Disease: A Review
Authors: Garg Neeta , Lavi Efrat Saraf
Published: January 2021

Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) is a rare disorder characterized by accumulation of non‐Langerhans cell histiocytes in multiple organs. The clinical manifestations are protean and vary from asymptomatic focal disease to potentially fatal multisystem disorder. The commonest presentation is symmetric osterosclerotic lesions of lower extremity long bones; other organs, including cardiovascular, nervous, and endocrine system may be affected. Central nervous system involvement can occur in up to 50% cases and is associated with poor prognosis. The disease pathogenesis involves organ involvement secondary to histiocytic infiltration and systemic inflammation driven by Th1 cytokine activation. The recent discovery of activating mutations in proto‐oncogene B‐rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (BRAF) V600E and other genes involved in mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways has led to redefinition of ECD as a myeloid neoplastic disorder. The diagnosis requires histochemical and molecular analysis of histiocytes in tissue biopsies in patients with compatible clinical and imaging features. The treatment options include interferon‐alpha, anakinra, and immunosuppressive therapies. Better understanding of disease pathogenesis has led to development of novel targeted and effective therapies including BRAF and MEK inhibitors. The rarity of the disease and variable clinical features and course often results in diagnostic errors and delays. Rare primary neurological presentation can occur mimicking CNS inflammatory, neoplastic, or demyelinating disorders. We report an unusual case of ECD presenting with progressive encephalopathy and ataxia along with multifocal brainstem and cerebellar lesions. A comprehensive review of clinical and neuroimaging features and immunohistochemical and molecular characteristic of ECD are presented along with review of neuroimaging findings in two previously reported cases.
Changes of bolus properties and the triggering of swallowing in healthy humans
Authors: Kochi Izumi , Takei Eri , Maeda Rumiko , Ito Kayoko , Magara Jin , Tsujimura Takanori , Kulvanich Sirima , Inoue Makoto
Published: January 2021

There is wide variation in chewing behaviours, even among healthy humans. Further, the way in which humans determine swallowing initiation when chewing solid foods remains unclear. The current study sought to investigate how the bolus properties change over time during chewing, and to clarify which factors affect chewing and swallowing behaviours, including swallowing initiation, in healthy humans. Twenty‐four healthy volunteers were instructed to chew 8 g of steamed rice and spit it out at 50%, 100% and 150% of their own chewing duration, defined as the time of chewing from onset of the first chewing cycle to onset of the first swallow. Chewing and swallowing behaviours were monitored and determined by visual inspection of video recordings. The physical properties such as hardness, cohesiveness and adhesiveness as well as water content of the bolus were measured. In each subject, maximum bite force, tongue pressure and stimulated salivary flow rate were also measured. Hardness gradually decreased, and the cohesiveness and water content of the bolus did not change up to 50% of chewing duration, followed by a slight but significant increase. The adhesiveness of the bolus rapidly decreased at the beginning of chewing. Chewing duration was significantly related to stimulated salivary flow rate; greater salivary flow rate was associated with shorter chewing duration. Variation of chewing duration and swallowing initiation was not dependent on bolus properties during the chewing of steamed rice, but mainly depended on the surface lubrication of the bolus.
What is boredom proneness? A comparison of three characterizations
Authors: Tam Katy Y. Y. , van Tilburg Wijnand A. P. , Chan Christian S.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Boredom proneness is associated with various problematic behaviors and mental health issues. Despite its wide‐ranging implication, boredom proneness as a trait‐like construct suffers from conceptual ambiguity and measurement issues. We examined whether boredom proneness represents individual differences in (a) the frequency of getting bored, (b) the intensity of boredom, and/or (c) a holistic perception of life being boring (perceived life boredom).

Method

Across Study 1 (U.S. Sample, N = 495; HK Sample, N = 231) and Study 2 (N = 608), we tested the construct validity of boredom proneness by estimating its association with measures of the three possible characterizations (convergent validity), and examined to what extent associations between boredom proneness and variables relevant to well‐being (e.g., life satisfaction, psychological distress) could be reproduced with the three potential characterizations (concurrent validity).

Results

Results suggest that each of the three characterizations represents some aspect of boredom proneness, and they generally reproduced boredom proneness' associations with other variables. Among them, perceived life boredom had the strongest convergent and concurrent validity.

Conclusion

Our findings provide novel insights into the characterization of boredom proneness and its hitherto poorly understood relationship with psychological well‐being.
Employee narcissism and promotability prospects
Authors: Nevicka Barbara , Sedikides Constantine
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Narcissistic individuals often rise to positions of influence, but how so? Upward mobility in formal hierarchies is frequently contingent upon supervisory evaluations. We examined the relation between employee narcissism and supervisor promotability ratings, testing predictions from the display of power perspective (narcissism will positively predict promotability due to higher perceived power) and impression management perspective (narcissism will positively predict promotability due to self‐promotion).

Method

In two multisource studies involving employees and their supervisors from diverse organizations (S1: Nemployees = 166; Nsupervisors = 93; S2: Nemployees = 128; Nsupervisors = 85), we measured employee narcissism (S1, S2), employee sense of power, employee impression management tactics toward the supervisor (S2), and employee promotability as rated by supervisors (S1–S2). Further, in an experiment (S3: N = 181), we tested the causal effect of employee sense of power on promotability.

Results

Results favored the display of power perspective. Although narcissism predicted both higher self‐promotion toward the supervisor and greater sense of power, it was the latter that explained the positive relation between employee narcissism and promotability ratings.

Conclusion

Employees high on narcissism act as if they have more power in organizations, and thus, demonstrate behavior that would be expected in higher level positions. The findings help to explain narcissistic individuals' rise through the ranks.
Preschoolers' and Third Graders' Understanding of the Causal Relations of Emotions and Behaviors in Moral Situations
Authors: Hasegawa Mari
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to determine whether children understand relationships between emotions and later behaviors in moral situations. Japanese preschoolers and third graders listened to stories featuring characters feeling happy or sad after behaving immorally, or after avoiding immoral behaviors using willpower. Two immoral behaviors were used in two studies: pushing a child off a swing and stealing another child's doughnuts. In both studies, participants judged whether characters feeling happiness or sadness in the moral conflict situations would later behave immorally. The stories of Study 1 were presented side‐by‐side, whereas the stories of Study 2 used forced‐choice questions. Children understood the relationships between emotions and behaviors when asked forced‐choice questions. However, preschoolers had difficulty explaining their reasoning. Preschoolers correctly answered questions related to negative feelings after deviation rather than positive feelings after avoiding deviation. The findings show that young children have some understanding of the correlation between emotions and later moral behavior, although they have more difficulty understanding positive feelings after avoiding deviation than negative feelings after deviation.
Freshwater zooplankton microbiome composition is highly flexible and strongly influenced by the environment
Authors: Eckert Ester M. , Anicic Nikoleta , Fontaneto Diego
Published: January 2021

The association with microbes in plants and animals is known to be beneficial for host's survival and fitness, but the generality of the effect of the microbiome is still debated. For some animals, similarities in microbiome composition reflect taxonomic relatedness of the hosts, a pattern termed phylosymbiosis. The mechanisms behind the pattern could be due to co‐evolution and/or to correlated ecological constraints. General conclusions are hampered by the fact that available knowledge is highly dominated by microbiomes from model species. Here, we addressed the issue of the generality of phylosymbiosis by analysing the species‐specificity of microbiomes across different species of freshwater zooplankton, including rotifers, cladocerans, and copepods, coupling field surveys and experimental manipulations. We found that no signal of phylosymbiosis was present, and that the proportion of “core” microbial taxa, stable and consistent within each species, was very low. Changes in food and temperature under laboratory experimental settings revealed that the microbiome of freshwater zooplankton is highly flexible and can be influenced by the external environment. Thus, the role of co‐evolution, strict association, and interaction with microbes within the holobiont concept highlighted for vertebrates, corals, sponges, and other animals does not seem to be supported for all animals, at least not for freshwater zooplankton. Zooplankton floats in the environment where both food and bacteria that can provide help in digesting such food are available. In addition, there is probably redundancy for beneficial bacterial functions in the environment, not allowing a strict host‐microbiome association to originate and persist.