bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CD38 modulates respiratory syncytial virus‐driven proinflammatory processes in human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells
Authors: Schiavoni Ilaria , Scagnolari Carolina , Horenstein Alberto L. , Leone Pasqualina , Pierangeli Alessandra , Malavasi Fabio , Ausiello Clara M. , Fedele Giorgio
Published: November 2017

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of hospitalization due to bronchiolitis in infants. Although the mechanisms behind this association are not completely elucidated, they appear to involve an excessive immune response causing lung pathology. Understanding the host response to RSV infection may help in the identification of targets for therapeutic intervention. We infected in‐vitro human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells (DCs) with RSV and analysed various aspects of the cellular response. We found that RSV induces in DCs the expression of CD38, an ectoenzyme that catalyses the synthesis of cyclic ADPR (cADPR). Remarkably, CD38 was under the transcriptional control of RSV‐induced type I interferon (IFN). CD38 and a set of IFN‐stimulated genes (ISGs) were inhibited by the anti‐oxidant N‐acetyl cysteine. When CD38‐generated cADPR was restrained by 8‐Br‐cADPR or kuromanin, a flavonoid known to inhibit CD38 enzymatic activity, RSV‐induced type I/III IFNs and ISGs were markedly reduced. Taken together, these results suggest a key role of CD38 in the regulation of anti‐viral responses. Inhibition of CD38 enzymatic activity may represent an encouraging approach to reduce RSV‐induced hyperinflammation and a novel therapeutic option to treat bronchiolitis.
What makes a good head positioner for preventing occipital pressure ulcers
Authors: Katzengold Rona , Gefen Amit
Published: November 2017

Patients who are stationary endure prolonged soft tissue distortions and deformations at contact areas between their body and the support surface, which may lead to the onset of pressure ulcers (PUs) over time. A novel technology for patient positioning employs innovation in materials science, specifically viscoelastic materials with shape memory properties that compose the Z‐Flo™ head positioner (Mölnlycke Health Care, Gothenburg, Sweden). Head positioners are generally known to reduce the occurrence of PUs in scalp tissues and the ears, but quantitative assessments of their biomechanical efficacy are missing in the literature. To determine potential differences in mechanical loads formed in the soft tissues of the back of the head while in contact with 2 head positioner types, Z‐Flo vs flat medical foam, we developed 2 comparable finite element model configurations, both including the same 3‐dimensional adult head. For both model variants, stresses in skin and fat peaked at the occiput. The skin at the back of the resting head is subjected to greater stress values with respect to fat; however, the Z‐Flo positioner reduced the exposure of both skin and fat tissues to elevated stresses considerably (by a factor of 3) compared to the medical foam support. We found the Z‐Flo device effective in reducing tissue loads at the surface of the head as well as internally in scalp tissues, with a particular strength in reducing internal tissue shear. The Z‐Flo device achieves this protective quality through highly effective immersion and envelopment of the back of the head, generated in the process of manual moulding of the device in preparation for use. Additional protection is achieved through the viscoelastic response of the filling material of this positioner, which relaxes promptly and considerably under the weight of the head (by more than 2‐fold within approximately 1 s) as opposed to the elastic recoil of the foam that pushes back on scalp tissues.
Seasonal and annual differences in the foraging ecology of two gull species breeding in sympatry and their use of fishery discards
Authors: Calado J. G. , Matos D. M. , Ramos J. A. , Moniz F. , Ceia F. R. , Granadeiro J. P. , Paiva V. H.
Published: November 2017

Niche segregation between similar species will result from an avoidance of competition but also from environmental variability, including nowadays anthropogenic activities. Gulls are among the seabirds with greater behavioural plasticity, being highly opportunistic and feeding on a wide range of prey, mostly from anthropogenic origin. Here, we analysed blood and feather stable isotopes combined with pellet analysis to investigate niche partitioning between Audouin's gull Larus audouinii and yellow‐legged gull Larus michahellis breeding in sympatry at Deserta Island, southern Portugal, during 2014 and 2015. During the breeding season there was considerable overlap in the adults’ diet, as their stable isotope values of blood and primary feather (P1) did not differ, and their pellets were comprised mainly by marine fish species. However, Audouin's gulls presented higher occurrences of pelagic fish, while yellow‐legged gulls fed more on demersal fish, insects, and refuse. SIAR mixing models also estimated a higher proportion of demersal fish in the diet of yellow‐legged gulls. We also found differences between the two gull species in chicks’ feathers, suggesting that Audouin's gull adults selected prey with lower carbon isotope values to feed their young. Secondary feather (S8) of Audouin's gull presented higher isotope values compared to yellow‐legged gulls, indicating different foraging areas (δ13C) and/ or trophic levels (δ15N) between the two species in the non‐breeding season. During both the all‐year and non‐breeding periods the yellow‐legged gull showed a broader isotopic niche width than Audouin's gull in 2013, and in 2014 the two gull species exhibited different isotopic niche spaces. Our study suggests that both gull species foraged in association with fisheries during the breeding season. In this sense, a discard ban implemented under the new European Union Common Fisheries Policy may lead to a food shortage, therefore future research should closely monitor the population dynamics of Audouin's and yellow‐legged gulls.
Effect of life‐course family income trajectories on periodontitis: Birth cohort study
Authors: Schuch Helena S. , Peres Karen G. , Demarco Flavio F. , Horta Bernardo L. , Gigante Denise P. , Peres Marco A. , Do Loc G.
Published: November 2017

Aims

To quantify the impact of life course income trajectories on periodontitis in adulthood.

Materials and Methods

Data from the 1982 Pelotas Birth Cohort Study, Brazil, were used. Information on family income was collected at birth and ages 15, 19, 23 and 30 years. Group‐based trajectory modelling was used to identify income trajectories. Periodontal measures were assessed through clinical examination at age 31. Log‐Poisson regression models were used to estimate prevalence ratios (PRs) of any and moderate/severe periodontitis, as outcomes.

Results

Prevalence of any periodontitis and moderate/severe periodontitis was 37.3% and 14.3% (n = 539). Income trajectories were associated with prevalence of moderate/severe periodontitis. Adjusted PR in participants in low and variable income trajectory was 2.1 times higher than in participants in stable high‐income trajectory. The unadjusted association between income trajectories and prevalence of any periodontitis was explained by the inclusion of behavioural and clinical variables in the model.

Conclusions

Low and variable life course income increased the prevalence of moderate/severe periodontitis at age 31 years. The findings may inform programmes in identifying and targeting potentially at‐risk groups during the life course to prevent periodontitis.
Evidence‐based (S3) guideline for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in women and in men – short version
Authors: Kanti V. , Messenger A. , Dobos G. , Reygagne P. , Finner A. , Blumeyer A. , Trakatelli M. , Tosti A. , del Marmol V. , Piraccini B.M. , Nast A. , Blume‐Peytavi U.
Published: November 2017

Androgenetic alopecia is the most common hair loss disorder, affecting both men and women. Initial signs of androgenetic alopecia usually develop during teenage years leading to progressive hair loss with a pattern distribution. Moreover, its frequency increases with age and affects up to 80% Caucasian men and 42% of women. Patients afflicted with androgenetic alopecia may undergo significant impairment of quality of life. The European Dermatology Forum (EDF) initiated a project to develop evidence‐based guidelines for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. Based on a systematic literature research the efficacy of the currently available therapeutic options was assessed and therapeutic recommendations were passed in a consensus conference. The purpose of the guideline is to provide dermatologists with an evidence‐based tool for choosing an efficacious and safe therapy for patients with androgenetic alopecia.
White oral mucosal lesions among the Yemeni population and their relation to local oral habits
Authors: Al‐Maweri Sadeq A. , Al‐Jamaei Aisha , Saini Rajan , Laronde Denise M. , Sharhan Amany
Published: November 2017

Aims

The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence and risk factors of white oral mucosal lesions among Yemeni adults; in particular, those who chew khat and tobacco.

Methods

The present cross‐sectional study included 1052 dental patients aged 15 years and older. A detailed oral examination was performed by a single examiner in accordance with standard international criteria.

Results

Overall, 25.2% of the study participants presented with one or more white lesions. The most prevalent lesions were khat‐induced white lesion (8.8%), leukoedema (5.1%), and frictional keratosis (3.9%). Potentially malignant lesions, such as lichen planus, leukoplakia, and smokeless tobacco‐induced lesions, were seen in 2.4%, 1.2%, and 1.7% of participants, respectively. Moreover, three cases of oral cancer were identified. The presence of white lesions was found to be significantly associated with advanced age (P = .004), male gender (P = .009), and khat/tobacco chewing habits (P < .001).

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates a high prevalence of oral benign and potentially malignant white lesions. Further, it highlights the urgent need to develop and implement new government policies to regulate the sale of these products to reduce the prevalence of these lesions and the overall incidence of oral cancers in the Yemeni population.
Assessment of the relationship between the maxillary sinus floor and the upper posterior root tips: Clinical considerations
Authors: Nino‐Barrera Javier Laureano , Ardila Edith , Guaman‐Pacheco Fernando , Gamboa‐Martinez Luis , Alzate‐Mendoza Diana
Published: November 2017

Aim

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between the maxillary sinus floor and the upper posterior root tips in the Colombian population using cone‐beam computed tomography.

Methods

A total of 1656 roots were analyzed (1104 molars and 552 premolars), classified as types I (outside the maxillary sinus) and II (inside the maxillary sinus).

Results

The results showed that the palatal root of the maxillary first molar was most frequently found inside the antrum.

Conclusions

Understanding the relationship between the maxillary sinus floor and the upper posterior root tips is important to the clinician when performing conventional or surgical endodontic treatment and conventional surgery procedures in order to minimize or avoid the risk of damaging the maxillary sinus.
Adults with intellectual disabilities in China: comorbid psychiatric disorder and its association with health service utilisation
Authors: He P. , Chen G. , Wang Z. , Guo C. , Li N. , Yun C. , Zheng X.
Published: November 2017

Background

Adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) often have multiple comorbidities. Psychiatric disorders in this population have been poorly studied in developing countries. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in adults with ID and whether comorbid psychiatric disorders were associated with health service utilisation.

Methods

We obtained data from the Second National Sample Survey on Disability, conducted in 31 provinces of China and selected a subsample of 13 631 adults aged 18 years and above with ID. ID were defined by intelligence quotient score under 70, deficits in two or more adaptive behaviours and age of onset under 18 years. Psychiatric disorders were identified according to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision. Logistic regressions were used for data analyses.

Results

The prevalence of psychiatric disorders in adults with ID was 16.7%. The most prevalent type of psychiatric disorder was dementia. Older adults, females, being minorities, urban residents, being literate, low‐income groups and having severe ID, were associated with elevated risk of psychiatric disorder among adults with ID. Compared with individuals without psychiatric disorders, those with comorbid psychiatric disorders were more likely to use medical service and less likely to use rehabilitation service.

Conclusions

The prevalence of psychiatric disorder in adults with ID was strikingly higher than that in the general population. Health service utilisation among Chinese adults with ID remained a big challenge. There is a possibility of diagnostic overshadowing by local clinicians, which may have resulted in overdiagnosis of dementia and underdiagnosis of common mental disorders. This study informs further investigations regarding common mental disorders among people with ID and has implications for public health strategies and health policies to meet health service need for this population.
Lateral sensitivity in electron probe microanalysis studied by Monte Carlo simulations involving fluorescence enhancements
Authors: PETACCIA M. , CASTELLANO G.
Published: November 2017

In electron probe microanalysis, secondary fluorescence can occur leading to an increase of the volume analysed, degrading the lateral resolution of this technique. An adequate knowledge of the interaction volumes from where the different signals of interest are detected is determinant to estimate the minimum size of the zone that can be characterized. In this work, the size of the signal source volume is surveyed for a wide set of samples at different beam energies. To this aim, the PENELOPE software package was chosen to run Monte Carlo simulations for several experimental situations in order to produce the various lateral radiation distributions of interest. A comparison between the interaction volumes of the different signals was performed by taking into account the different fluorescence enhancement possibilities. An unexpected behaviour was found in the particular cases of aluminium and alumina, where the secondary photons signal exhibits a decreasing trend up to certain beam energy (∼17 keV); this implies that lower beam energies may degrade the lateral resolution of the technique in these materials.
Dense‐core vesicle biogenesis and exocytosis in neurons lacking chromogranins A and B
Authors: Dominguez Natalia , van Weering Jan R. T. , Borges Ricardo , Toonen Ruud F. G. , Verhage Matthijs
Published: November 2017

Chromogranin A and B (Cgs) are considered to be master regulators of cargo sorting for the regulated secretory pathway (RSP) and dense‐core vesicle (DCV) biogenesis. To test this, we analyzed the release of neuropeptide Y (NPY)‐pHluorin, a live RSP reporter, and the distribution, number, and appearance of DCVs, in mouse hippocampal neurons lacking expression of CHGA and CHGB genes. qRT‐PCR analysis showed that expression of other granin family members was not significantly altered in CgA/B−/− neurons. As synaptic maturation of developing neurons depends on secretion of trophic factors in the RSP, we first analyzed neuronal development in standardized neuronal cultures. Surprisingly, dendritic and axonal length, arborization, synapse density, and synaptic vesicle accumulation in synapses were all normal in CgA/B−/− neurons. Moreover, the number of DCVs outside the soma, stained with endogenous marker Secretogranin II, the number of NPY‐pHluorin puncta, and the total amount of reporter in secretory compartments, as indicated by pH‐sensitive NPY‐pHluorin fluorescence, were all normal in CgA/B−/− neurons. Electron microscopy revealed that synapses contained a normal number of DCVs, with a normal diameter, in CgA/B−/− neurons. In contrast, CgA/B−/− chromaffin cells contained fewer and smaller secretory vesicles with a smaller core size, as previously reported. Finally, live‐cell imaging at single vesicle resolution revealed a normal number of fusion events upon bursts of action potentials in CgA/B−/− neurons. These events had normal kinetics and onset relative to the start of stimulation. Taken together, these data indicate that the two chromogranins are dispensable for cargo sorting in the RSP and DCV biogenesis in mouse hippocampal neurons.

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Suppression of oxidative phosphorylation confers resistance against bevacizumab in experimental glioma
Authors: Eriksson Jule A. , Wanka Christina , Burger Michael C. , Urban Hans , Hartel Ines , von Renesse Janusz , Harter Patrick N. , Mittelbronn Michel , Steinbach Joachim P. , Rieger Johannes
Published: November 2017

Although bevacizumab initially shows high response rates in gliomas and other tumours, therapy resistance usually develops later. Because anti‐angiogenic agents are supposed to induce hypoxia, we asked whether rendering glioma cells independent of oxidative phosphorylation modulates their sensitivity against hypoxia and bevacizumab. LNT‐229 glioma cells without functional mitochondria (rho0) and control (rho+) cells were generated. LNT‐229 rho0‐cells displayed reduced expression of oxidative phosphorylation‐related genes and diminished oxygen consumption. Conversely, glycolysis was up‐regulated in these cells, as shown by increased lactate production and stronger expression of glucose transporter‐1 and lactate dehydrogenase‐A. However, hypoxia‐induced cell death in vitro was nearly completely abolished in the LNT‐229 rho0‐cells, these cells were more sensitive towards glucose restriction and the treatment with the glycolysis inhibitor 2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose. In an orthotopic mouse xenograft experiment, bevacizumab induced hypoxia as reflected by elevated Hypoxia‐inducible factor 1‐alpha staining in both, rho+‐ and rho0‐tumours. However, it prolonged survival only in the mice bearing rho+‐tumours (74 days vs. 105 days, p = 0.024 log‐rank test) and had no effect on survival in mice carrying LNT‐229 rho0‐tumours (75 days vs. 70 days, p = 0.52 log‐rank test). Interestingly, inhibition of glycolysis in vivo with 2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose re‐established sensitivity of rho0‐tumours against bevacizumab (98 days vs. 80 days, p = 0.0001). In summary, ablation of oxidative phosphorylation in glioma cells leads to a more glycolytic and hypoxia‐resistant phenotype and is sufficient to induce bevacizumab‐refractory tumours. These results add to increasing evidence that a switch towards glycolysis is one mechanism how tumour cells may evade anti‐angiogenic treatments and suggest anti‐glycolytic strategies as promising approaches to overcome bevacizumab resistance.

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The effect of training on the temporal dominance of sensations method: A study with milk protein hydrolysates
Authors: Hutchings Scott C. , de Casanove Aude , Schlich Pascal , O'Riordan Dolores
Published: November 2017

The Temporal Dominance of Sensations (TDS) method could be an alternative approach to time‐consuming trained panels for the sensory analysis of protein hydrolysates. However, the amount of training required for accurate TDS results with hydrolysates is unclear. In addition, the masking of unpleasant aftertastes in protein hydrolysates using sweeteners is often only partially successful. The aim of this study was: (a) To examine changes in TDS results with hydrolysates as a group of panelists progress through different levels of training: as untrained panelists, familiarized panelists, and trained panelists. (b) To examine the effect of increasing sweetness on the temporal suppression of sensory attributes in hydrolysates. Four products were assessed: a casein hydrolysate at 10% wt/wt with 4 levels of sucralose (0%, 1.5, 3, and 6% equivalent sweetness). Similar TDS results were obtained for all three levels of training for each product, however consensus of selection and product discrimination increased with training. As sweetness increased bitterness was suppressed however cheesiness increased. Sweetness tended to peak before bitterness and cheesiness, however temporal changes were small and subtle.

Practical applications

Running traditional descriptive trained panels is expensive and time‐consuming. It is particularly difficult with protein hydrolysates, as their unpleasant sensory properties mean that panelists are hard to recruit, and will often leave panels during training. This work attempted to understand if the Temporal Dominance of Sensations (TDS) method could be used with untrained panelists for protein hydrolysates. Results suggest a TDS panel of untrained panelists may be suitable for the assessment of hydrolysates, however TDS training still provided the best quality data. This work also represents a first attempt to understand the aftertaste profile of a protein hydrolysate (and attempts to mask aftertaste with a sweet masking agent) using a temporal sensory method. Results showed most sensory attributes dominating during tasting in the mouth declined very slowly after swallowing.
Depth‐based differentiation in nitrogen uptake between graminoids and shrubs in an Arctic tundra plant community
Authors: Wang Peng , Limpens Juul , Nauta Ake , van Huissteden Corine , Quirina van Rijssel Sophie , Mommer Liesje , de Kroon Hans , Maximov Trofim C. , Heijmans Monique M.P.D.
Published: November 2017

Questions

The rapid climate warming in tundra ecosystems can increase nutrient availability in the soil, which may initiate shifts in vegetation composition. The direction in which the vegetation shifts will co‐determine whether Arctic warming is mitigated or accelerated, making the understanding of successional trajectories urgent. One of the key factors influencing the competitive relationships between plant species is their access to nutrients, depending on the depth where they take up most nutrients. However, nutrient uptake at different soil depths by tundra plant species that differ in rooting depth is unclear.

Location

Kytalyk Nature Reserve, northeast Siberia, Russia.

Methods

We injected 15N to 5 cm, 15 cm and the thaw front of the soil in a moist tussock tundra. The absorption of 15N by grasses, sedges, deciduous shrubs and evergreen shrubs from the three depths was compared.

Results

The results clearly show a vertical differentiation of N uptake by these plant functional types, corresponding to their rooting strategy. Shallow‐rooting dwarf shrubs were more capable of absorbing nutrients from the upper soil than from deeper soil. Deep‐rooting grasses and sedges were more capable of absorbing nutrients from deeper soil than the dwarf shrubs. The natural 15N abundances in control plants also indicate that graminoids can absorb more nutrients from the deeper soil than dwarf shrubs.

Conclusions

Our results show that graminoids and shrubs in the Arctic differ in their N uptake strategies, with graminoids profiting from nutrients released at the thaw front, while shrubs mainly forage in upper soil layers. Our results suggest that tundra vegetation will become graminoid‐dominated as permafrost thaw progresses and nutrient availability increases in the deep soil.
Telemetry tags increase the costs of swimming in northern fur seals, Callorhinus ursinus
Authors: Rosen David A. S. , Gerlinsky Carling G. , Trites Andrew W.
Published: November 2017

Animal‐borne instruments have become a standard tool for collecting important data from marine mammals. However, few studies have examined whether placement of these data loggers affects the behavior and energetics of individual animals, potentially leading to biasing data. We measured the effect of two types of relatively small data loggers (<1% of animals’ mass and front profile) on the swimming speeds and energy expenditure of four female northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) while swimming at depth. Swim speeds and rates of oxygen consumption were measured as the trained fur seals repeatedly swam an underwater circuit, with or without the tags. We found the placement of either tested tag significantly affected both the behavior and energetics of the fur seals in our study. Diving metabolic rate increased an average of 8.1%–12.3% (depending on tag type) and swim speed decreased an average of 3.0%–6.0% when wearing the tags. The combined changes in velocities and metabolic rates resulted in a 12.0%–19.0% increase in the total energy required by the fur seals to swim a set distance. The demonstrated effects of tags on behavior and energy expenditure may bias data sets from wild animals and potentially incur longer‐term impacts on the studied animals.
Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) social structure in the Shannon Estuary, Ireland, is distinguished by age‐ and area‐related associations
Authors: Baker Isabel , O'Brien Joanne , McHugh Katherine , Ingram Simon N. , Berrow Simon
Published: November 2017

Social and network analyses that incorporate information on individuals within a population enhance our knowledge of complex species. In this study, the social structure of wild bottlenose dolphins in the Shannon Estuary, Ireland, was analyzed by examining the dynamics of the whole population and then of individuals classed by sex, age, and area. One hundred and twenty‐one dolphins were identified during 522 sightings between 2012 and 2015. The mean half‐weight association index (HWI) of the population was 0.07 ± 0.02. The highest HWIs for individuals of known sex were for female‐male pairs. Mean within‐class HWI was significantly higher than mean between‐class HWI for both age and area classes. Ordinations and sociograms were used to visualize social networks. Permutation tests revealed nonrandom associations for the population overall and both between and within classes. Temporal analyses showed associations persisting for >1,000 d. The whole population's best fit model was for two levels of casual acquaintances. Movement analyses demonstrated the use of the inner estuary by only 25% of the population revealing a potential community division by area. The difference between mean HWI when socializing (0.09 ± 0.03) compared to foraging (0.06 ± 0.03) was significant. These results highlight the importance of localized research, reflecting the complexity found in bottlenose dolphin societies globally.
Co‐occurrence and seasonal and environmental distributions of the sandflies Lutzomyia longipalpis and Nyssomyia whitmani in the city of Puerto Iguazú, northeastern Argentina
Authors: SANTINI M. S. , FERNÁNDEZ M. S. , CAVIA R. , SALOMÓN O. D.
Published: November 2017

The aim of this work was to study the distribution of Phlebotominae (Diptera: Psycodidade) abundance in time and space in an area in northeastern Argentina with vector transmission of visceral and tegumentary leishmaniasis. For this, 51 households were selected using a ‘worst scenario’ criterion where one light trap was set during two consecutive nights in peridomiciles in the transitions between the four seasons, and the environment was surveyed simultaneously. The relationships of phlebotomine assemblage structure and the most abundant species with seasonality and environmental variables were evaluated using a canonical correspondence analysis and generalized linear mixed models, respectively. A total of 5110 individuals were captured. Lutzomyia longipalpis (Lutz & Neiva, 1912) and Nyssomyia whitmani (Antunes & Coutinho, 1939) were the most abundant species captured in all samplings (98.3% of the total capture). The period of highest abundance of Lu. longipalpis was early autumn, and it was distributed in the most urbanized areas. Nyssomyia whitmani occupied mainly the less urbanized areas, showing peaks of abundance in early spring and summer. Other species were captured in low numbers and showed seasonal−spatial variations similar to those of Ny. whitmani. We confirmed Leishmania spp. vector persistence throughout the year in spatial patches of high abundance even during the less favorable season.
Review: The past, present and future challenges in epilepsy‐related and sudden deaths and biobanking
Authors: Thom M. , Boldrini M. , Bundock E. , Sheppard M. N. , Devinsky O.
Published: November 2017

Awareness and research on epilepsy‐related deaths (ERD), in particular Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), have exponentially increased over the last two decades. Most publications have focused on guidelines that inform clinicians dealing with these deaths, educating patients, potential risk factors and mechanisms. There is a relative paucity of information available for pathologists who conduct these autopsies regarding appropriate post mortem practice and investigations. As we move from recognizing SUDEP as the most common form of ERD toward in‐depth investigations into its causes and prevention, health professionals involved with these autopsies and post mortem procedure must remain fully informed. Systematizing a more comprehensive and consistent practice of examining these cases will facilitate (i) more precise determination of cause of death, (ii) identification of SUDEP for improved epidemiological surveillance (the first step for an intervention study), and (iii) biobanking and cell‐based research. This article reviews how pathologists and healthcare professionals have approached ERD, current practices, logistical problems and areas to improve and harmonize. The main neuropathology, cardiac and genetic findings in SUDEP are outlined, providing a framework for best practices, integration of clinical, pathological and molecular genetic investigations in SUDEP, and ultimately prevention.
Social networks, health promoting‐behavior, and health‐related quality of life in older Korean adults
Authors: Hong Minjoo , De Gagne Jennie C. , Shin Hyewon
Published: November 2017

In this cross‐sectional, descriptive study, we compared the sociodemographic characteristics, social networks, health‐promoting behavior, and the health‐related quality of life of older Korean adults living in South Korea to those of older Korean adult immigrants living in the USA. A total of 354 older adults, aged 65 years or older, participated. Data were collected through self‐directed questionnaires, and analyzed using a two way analysis of variance, t‐tests, χ2‐tests, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The association between four sociodemographic characteristics and health‐related quality of life was significantly different between the two groups. For the older Korean adults living in South Korea, positive correlations existed between a measure of their social networks and both health‐promoting behavior and health‐related quality of life. For the older Korean immigrants, the findings revealed a positive correlation only between social networks and health‐promoting behavior. The study findings support the important association social networks can have with health‐related quality of life, and their possible relationship to health‐promoting behaviors of older Korean adults. We suggest that health policy‐makers and healthcare providers develop comprehensive programs that are designed to improve older adults’ social networks.
Floral scent chemistry within the genus Linnaea (Caprifoliaceae)
Authors: Bergström L. Gunnar W. , Bergquist Sara , Stenhagen Gunnar , Gahmberg Carl G. , Maia Artur Campos D. , Nordenstam Bertil
Published: November 2017

‘Beauty bush’ and ‘twin flower’ are common names attributed to two well‐recognizable species belonging to the genus Linnaea (16 spp.) – L. amabilis and L. borealis – long admired by botanists and gardeners for their perfumed paired bell‐shaped flowers. In the present study, we investigated their floral scent compositions through gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) analysis of dynamic headspace samples. Because the flowers of L. borealis in wild populations are fragrant both during the day and in the evening, circadian variation of scent emission was also assessed for this species. In total, 26 chemical compounds comprise the floral scent bouquets of L. amabilis and L. borealis, identified as monoterpenes (14), benzenoids and phenylpropanoids (5), aliphatics (3), sesquiterpenes (3) and irregular terpenes (1). Whereas monoterpenes, notably (‐)‐α‐ and β‐pinene, dominated the scent of L. amabilis (over 82% relative abundance), benzene derivates: 1,4 dimethoxybenzene, anisaldehyde, 2‐phenylethanol, benzaldehyde and nicotinaldehyde were exclusive to analysed headspace samples of L. borealis, accounting for 52% to 100% of their relative compositions, in three Swedish populations. A southwestern Finnish population was characterized by the four first mentioned benzenoid compounds and large amounts of (‐)‐α‐ and β‐pinenes plus two aliphatic substances. The scent compounds identified for both species are ubiquitous and may serve as generalist attractants/stimulants for a broad assortment of anthophilous insects. The basic work on the flower scent of L. amabilis and L. borealis should inspire studies of their pollination biology, primarily the behaviour‐guiding roles of the characteristic emitted volatiles.
Drooling is no early sign of dysphagia in Parkinson′s disease
Authors: Nienstedt J. C. , Buhmann C. , Bihler M. , Niessen A. , Plaetke R. , Gerloff C. , Pflug C.
Published: November 2017

Background

Dysphagia is frequent and clinically highly relevant in Parkinson's disease (PD). For a rational dysphagia screening predictors are required. Previous investigations suggested that drooling correlates with dysphagia and may serve as its early sign. The aim of this study was to clarify the interrelationship of drooling and dysphagia.

Methods

In a controlled, cross‐sectional, observational study, a total of 119 Parkinson outpatients and 32 controls were examined clinically and by flexible‐endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). Drooling, dysphagia including retained pharyngeal secretions, and cognitive function were assessed by established evaluation scales.

Key Results

Fifty percent of all PD patients but only 9% of controls had drooling (P < .001). Drooling and dysphagia were related in PD (P = .027) but the data do not support to view drooling as a hallmark symptom for critical dysphagia. Thirty‐nine percent of the patients with critical aspiration had no drooling. In contrast, 41% of the patients with severe drooling had no clinically relevant dysphagia in FEES. The oral, but not the pharyngeal secretion management was impaired in PD patients and there was no clear association between drooling and pharyngeal secretion accumulation. Cognitive impaired patients had significantly more drooling (P = .005).

Conclusions & Inferences

Although frequent in PD, drooling and dysphagia are only weakly related and drooling cannot be viewed as an early sign of dysphagia. Our data further suggest that the underlying cause of drooling is located in the voluntary oral phase, which is negatively influenced by cognitive deficits.
Demographically idiosyncratic responses to climate change and rapid Pleistocene diversification of the walnut genus Juglans (Juglandaceae) revealed by whole‐genome sequences
Authors: Bai Wei‐Ning , Yan Peng‐Cheng , Zhang Bo‐Wen , Woeste Keith E. , Lin Kui , Zhang Da‐Yong
Published: November 2017

Whether species demography and diversification are driven primarily by extrinsic environmental changes such as climatic oscillations in the Quaternary or by intrinsic biological interactions like coevolution between antagonists is a matter of active debate. In fact, their relative importance can be assessed by tracking past population fluctuations over considerable time periods.

We applied the pairwise sequentially Markovian coalescent approach on the genomes of 11 temperate Juglans species to estimate trajectories of changes in effective population size (Ne) and used a Bayesian‐coalescent based approach that simultaneously considers multiple genomes (G‐PhoCS) to estimate divergence times between lineages.

Ne curves of all study species converged 1.0 million yr ago, probably reflecting the time when the walnut genus last shared a common ancestor. This estimate was confirmed by the G‐PhoCS estimates of divergence times. But all species did not react similarly to the dramatic climatic oscillations following early Pleistocene cooling, so the timing and amplitude of changes in Ne differed among species and even among conspecific lineages.

The population histories of temperate walnut species were not driven by extrinsic environmental changes alone, and a key role was probably played by species‐specific factors such as coevolutionary interactions with specialized pathogens.
Conjoint analysis of small‐boat recreational fishers in New Zealand
Authors: Muller Carla F. , Holland John D. , Kay Thomas J. , Hytten Karen F.
Published: November 2017

Conjoint analysis is a useful technique to assist recreational managers formulate policy, and develop strategies to efficiently and effectively distribute resources. Accurate estimates of the value of natural resources remain challenging, despite the development of a number of decision analysis techniques. This recreation geography study uses conjoint analysis to examine the relative importance of attributes associated with small‐boat recreational fishing experiences and demonstrates the value of conjoint analysis as a non‐market valuation tool. We found that the choices associated with companionship are the most important factors of recreational fishing and more tangible attributes such as the quality of launch facilities and catch probability are the least important factors.
Effectiveness of lifestyle interventions for preventing harmful weight gain among young adults from lower socioeconomic status and ethnically diverse backgrounds: a systematic review
Authors: Hayba N. , Partridge S. R. , Nour M. M. , Grech A. , Allman Farinelli M.
Published: November 2017

The incidence of overweight and obesity are increasing with each successive generation of young adults. Associated co‐morbidities will emerge at an earlier age unless weight gain is prevented. Evidence has demonstrated young adults (aged 18–35 years) from low socioeconomic and ethnically diverse backgrounds are at greater risk of overweight or obesity, yet it is unclear how to effectively intervene in this population. This systematic review aimed to assess the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions conducted in this population. Thirty studies reporting on lifestyle interventions for prevention of weight gain were identified from eight electronic databases searched. Six interventions included subgroup analyses to determine if ethnicity moderated weight change, and two included subgroup analyses to determine if socioeconomic status had an effect on change in weight. Five of these six studies were effective in preventing weight gain, and subgroup analyses showed no differences in effect by ethnicity. Of these five studies, two included a subgroup analysis that showed socioeconomic status to have no effect on weight outcome. Despite the promising results from these five lifestyle interventions utilizing online and mobile components to effectively reach and prevent weight gain in this priority population, the evidence base of high quality trials is limited.
Marker‐assisted backcrossing to develop foliar disease‐resistant genotypes in TMV 2 variety of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Kolekar Rohini M. , Sukruth Mallenahally , Shirasawa Kenta , Nadaf Hajisaheb L. , Motagi Babu N. , Lingaraju Sattigarahalli , Patil Prakashgouda V. , Bhat Ramesh S.
Published: November 2017

TMV 2 is a very popular peanut variety among the Indian farmers, but it is highly susceptible to fungal foliar diseases like late leaf spot (LLS) and rust. Marker‐assisted backcrossing (MABC) in TMV 2 using foliar disease‐resistant donor, GPBD 4 and the disease resistance‐linked markers (GM2009, GM2079, GM2301, GM1839 and IPAHM103) resulted in a large number of backcross populations and also straight cross populations. Foreground selection followed by field evaluation under disease epiphytotic conditions could identify a few superior genotypes. Two homozygous backcross lines TMG‐29 and TMG‐46 showed enhanced resistance to LLS and rust diseases (score of 3.00 for both) along with 71.0% and 62.7% increase in the pod yield per plot, respectively, over the check, TMV 2. These foliar disease‐resistant and productive lines can be released as commercial varieties or can be used as genetic resources in the peanut improvement.
The pathogenesis of hemodialysis vascular access failure and systemic therapies for its prevention: Optimism unfulfilled
Authors: Viecelli Andrea K , Mori Trevor A , Roy‐Chaudhury Prabir , Polkinghorne Kevan R , Hawley Carmel M , Johnson David W , Pascoe Elaine M , Irish Ashley B
Published: November 2017

In patients receiving hemodialysis, the provision of safe and effective vascular access using an arteriovenous fistula or graft is regarded as a critical priority by patients and health professionals. Vascular access failure is associated with morbidity and mortality, such that strategies to prevent these outcomes are essential. Inadequate vascular remodeling and neointimal hyperplasia resulting in stenosis and frequently thrombosis are critical to the pathogenesis of access failure. Systemic medical therapies with pleiotropic effects including antiplatelet agents, omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (fish oils), statins, and inhibitors of the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system (RAAS) may reduce vascular access failure by promoting vascular access maturation and reducing stenosis and thrombosis through antiproliferative, antiaggregatory, anti‐inflammatory and vasodilatory effects. Despite such promise, the results of retrospective analyses and randomized controlled trials of these agents on arteriovenous fistula and graft outcomes have been mixed. This review describes the current understanding of the pathogenesis of arteriovenous fistula and graft failure, the biological effects of antiplatelet agents, fish oil supplementation, RAAS blockers and statins that may be beneficial in improving vascular access survival, results from clinical trials that have investigated the effect of these agents on arteriovenous fistula and graft outcomes, and it explores future therapeutic approaches combining these agents with novel treatment strategies.
Selective T‐cell depletion targeting CD45RA reduces viremia and enhances early T‐cell recovery compared with CD3‐targeted T‐cell depletion
Authors: Triplett Brandon M. , Muller Brad , Kang Guolian , Li Ying , Cross Shane J. , Moen Joseph , Cunningham Lea , Janssen William , Mamcarz Ewelina , Shook David R. , Srinivasan Ashok , Choi John , Hayden Randall T. , Leung Wing
Published: November 2017

Background

T‐cell depletion (TCD) effectively reduces severe graft‐versus‐host disease in recipients of HLA‐mismatched allografts. However, TCD is associated with delayed immune recovery and increased infections. We hypothesized that specific depletion of CD45RA+ naive T cells, rather than broad depletion of CD3+ T cells, can preserve memory‐immunity in the allografts and confer protection against important viral infections in the early post‐transplant period.

Methods

Sixty‐seven patients who received TCD haploidentical donor transplantation for hematologic malignancy on 3 consecutive trials were analyzed.

Results

Patients receiving CD45RA‐depleted donor grafts had 2000‐fold more donor T cells infused, significantly higher T‐cell counts at Day +30 post transplant (550/μL vs 10/μL; P < .001), and higher T‐cell diversity by Vbeta spectratyping at Day +100 (P < .001). Importantly, these recipients experienced a significant reduction in both the incidence (P = .002) and duration (P = .02) of any viremia (cytomegalovirus, Epstein‐Barr virus, or adenovirus) in the first 6 months post transplant. Specifically, recipients of CD3‐depleted grafts were more likely to experience adenovirus viremia (27% vs 4%, P = .02).

Conclusion

CD45RA‐depletion provided a large number of donor memory T cells to the recipients and was associated with enhanced early T‐cell recovery and protection against viremia.
Genome sequences of Chlorella sorokiniana UTEX 1602 and Micractinium conductrix SAG 241.80: implications to maltose excretion by a green alga
Authors: Arriola Matthew B. , Velmurugan Natarajan , Zhang Ying , Plunkett Mary H. , Hondzo Hanna , Barney Brett M.
Published: November 2017

Green algae represent a key segment of the global species capable of photoautotrophic‐driven biological carbon fixation. Algae partition fixed‐carbon into chemical compounds required for biomass, while diverting excess carbon into internal storage compounds such as starch and lipids or, in certain cases, into targeted extracellular compounds. Two green algae were selected to probe for critical components associated with sugar production and release in a model alga. Chlorella sorokiniana UTEX 1602 – which does not release significant quantities of sugars to the extracellular space – was selected as a control to compare with the maltose‐releasing Micractinium conductrix SAG 241.80 – which was originally isolated from an endosymbiotic association with the ciliate Paramecium bursaria. Both strains were subjected to three sequencing approaches to assemble their genomes and annotate their genes. This analysis was further complemented with transcriptional studies during maltose release by M. conductrix SAG 241.80 versus conditions where sugar release is minimal. The annotation revealed that both strains contain homologs for the key components of a putative pathway leading to cytosolic maltose accumulation, while transcriptional studies found few changes in mRNA levels for the genes associated with these established intracellular sugar pathways. A further analysis of potential sugar transporters found multiple homologs for SWEETs and tonoplast sugar transporters. The analysis of transcriptional differences revealed a lesser and more measured global response for M. conductrix SAG 241.80 versus C. sorokiniana UTEX 1602 during conditions resulting in sugar release, providing a catalog of genes that might play a role in extracellular sugar transport.
Comparative epigenomics reveals evolution of duplicated genes in potato and tomato
Authors: Wang Lin , Xie Jiahui , Hu Jiantuan , Lan Binyuan , You Chenjiang , Li Fenglan , Wang Zhengjia , Wang Haifeng
Published: November 2017

The evolution of duplicated genes after polyploidization has been the subject of many evolutionary biology studies. Potato (Solanum tuberosum) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) are the first two sequenced genomes of asterids, and share a common polyploidization event. However, the epigenetic role of DNA methylation on the evolution of duplicated genes derived from polyploidization is not fully understood. Here, we explore the role of the DNA methylation in the evolution of duplicated genes in potato and tomato. The overall levels of DNA methylation are different, although patterns of DNA methylation are similar in potato and tomato. Different types of duplicated genes can display different methylation patterns in potato and tomato. In addition, we found that differences in the methylation levels between duplicated genes were associated with gene expression divergence. In particular, for the majority of duplicated gene pairs, one copy is always hyper‐ or hypo‐methylated compared with the other copy across different tomato fruit ripening stages, and these genes are enriched for specific function related to transcription factor (TF) activity. Furthermore, transcription of hundreds of duplicated TFs was shown to be regulated by DNA methylation during fruit ripening stages in tomato, some of which are well‐known fruit ripening TFs. Taken together, our results support the notion that DNA methylation may facilitate divergent evolution of duplicated genes and play roles in important biological processes such as tomato fruit ripening.