bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial intelligence for non‐polypoid colorectal neoplasms
Authors: Hassan Cesare , Bhandari Pradeep , Antonelli Giulio , Repici Alessandro
Published: August 2020

The miss rate of flat advanced colorectal neoplasia is still unacceptably high, especially in the Western setting, notwithstanding the widespread implementation of quality improvement programs and training. It is well known that flat morphology is associated with miss rate of colorectal neoplasia, and that this subset of lesions often shows a more aggressive biological behaviour. Artificial intelligence (AI) applied to the detection of colorectal neoplasia has been shown to increase adenoma detection rate, consistently across all lesion sizes and locations in the colon. However, there is still uncertainty whether AI can reduce the miss rate of flat advanced neoplasia, mainly because all published trials report a low number of flat colorectal lesions in their training sets, and this could reduce AI accuracy for this subset of lesions. In addition, flat lesions have different morphologies with variable prevalence and potentially different accuracy in their detection. For example, the subtle appearance and rarer frequency of a non‐granular laterally spreading tumor (LST) could be much harder to identify than a granular mixed LST. In this review, we present a summary of the evidence on the role of AI in the identification of colorectal flat neoplasia, with a focus on data regarding presence of LSTs in the training/validation sets of the AI systems currently available on the market.
Cognitive and motor function in developmental coordination disorder
Authors: Wilson Peter , Ruddock Scott , Rahimi‐Golkhandan Shahin , Piek Jan , Sugden David , Green Dido , Steenbergen Bert
Published: August 2020

Aim

To analyse the development of motor skill and executive function in school‐aged children with and without developmental coordination disorder (DCD).

Method

Using a longitudinal design, 186 children (86 males, 100 females) aged 6 to 11 years at Time 1 were tested over a 2‐year period, 52 of whom were diagnosed with DCD at Time 1 (27 males, 25 females; mean age 8y 5mo, SD 1y 6mo) using DSM‐5 criteria. The McCarron Assessment of Neuromuscular Development assessed motor status at Time 1 and at 2‐year follow‐up (Time 2). Executive function was assessed using a well‐validated measure, the Groton Maze Learning Test.

Results

The DCD cohort at Time 1 had moderate incidence of executive function deficit (41%). Most importantly, at a group level, children with persisting DCD (across Times 1 and 2) also showed significantly lower levels of executive function than children with typical motor development at both time points. At an individual level, around 26% of children in this group had persisting executive function deficits relative to normal ranges of performance.

Interpretation

Children with persisting DCD are at significant risk of executive function issues. The combination of motor and cognitive issues as a potential risk factor in the longer‐term development of children is discussed.

What this paper adds

Around half of children initially diagnosed with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) had the same diagnosis at 2‐year follow‐up.

41% of children with DCD have impaired executive function.

Children with persisting DCD show poorer executive function than those with typical motor development or remitting DCD.
Serial assessment of focal myocardial function after percutaneous coronary intervention for ST‐elevation myocardial infarction: Value of layer‐specific speckle tracking echocardiography
Authors: Sun Jing Ping , Liang Yi , Zhang Fen , Chen Xinxin , Yuan Wei , Xu Liangjie , Bahler Robert C. , Yan Jinchuan
Published: August 2020

Background

Ischemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI) frequently follows successful PCI for STEMI and is recognized by multiple modalities. Multilayer speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) has the potential of detecting myocardial dysfunction in different myocardial layers. Our objective was to describe the changes in layer‐specific myocardial function over the 24 hours after successful PCI for ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods

Patients (n = 120) with STEMI and no prior myocardial infarction underwent echocardiography prior to PCI, immediately after and at 3‐ and 24‐hours post‐PCI. Worsening focal dysfunction (WFD) was defined as an immediate reduction, compared to the pre‐PCI value, in the amplitude of endo‐myocardial longitudinal strain (endo‐MLS) within the infarction territory.

Results

Patients with WFD (52%) had further reductions in endo‐MLS, mid‐MLS, and epi‐MLS in the infarction region immediately post‐PCI; at 3 hours strain began to improve and continued to improve at 24 hours. Reductions of endo‐MLS strain were more evident than those of global, mid‐MLS, and epi‐MLS. This same pattern was seen in each of the ischemic territories of the anterior descending, circumflex, and right coronary arteries. Immediate improvement in endo‐MLS following PCI was seen in 48% of patients. The time from symptom onset to balloon time was markedly longer in those with WFD (P < .0001).

Conclusions

Multilayer SPE is a sensitive method that identifies serial alterations in focal myocardial function following successful PCI for STEMI. Layer‐specific reductions in endo‐MLS appeared more evident than decreases in global LV strain. Prolonged total ischemic time prior to PCI was directly related to the incidence of WFD.
The impact of an electronic guide on students’ self‐directed learning in simulation clinic
Authors: Terry Andrew , Liu Danny , Divnic‐Resnik Tihana
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Simulation training on high‐fidelity simulated models have been used to provide a safe and effective training platform for dental students to develop the skills necessary to treat patients. To surpass challenges of traditional pedagogies in simulation training and reinforce self‐directed learning, a bespoke computer application, PerioPal, was designed to complement training of dental students in periodontal instrumentation.

Materials and methods

This study evaluated the impact of PerioPal on a cohort of 92 second‐year dental students at an Australian University. During the first semester in 2019, they received traditional simulation periodontal instrumentation training (control semester). In the following semester, PerioPal was implemented as a technological teaching adjunct (intervention semester). Student perceptions of their learning experiences were gathered through a qualitative and quantitative questionnaire. Impact on student performance was evaluated through comparing periodontal instrumental assessment results in control and interventionsemesters.

Results

With introduction of PerioPal, students perceived that the simulation clinic learning environment, better contributed to the speed at which they learnt new instrumentation as well as being able to self‐pace their work. They commented that instructional videos and independent learning were most beneficial. Interestingly, students suggested that PerioPal aided their preparation for theoretical assessments more than their practical assessments. After introduction of PerioPal a minor improvement of average practical assessment marks was observed but could not be statistically confirmed as significant.

Conclusion

Although the computer‐supported learning did not lead to improvement of the students’ practical performance a positive effect on the student self‐paced learning experience and engagement in simulated environment were observed.
The Holy and Great Council – Communication of the Church Message
Authors: Briskina‐Müller Anna
Published: August 2020

The article examines the impressions of observers about the Holy and Great Council in Crete in 2016 that have been most discussed, above all a strong competition between national churches and their leaders, and an enormous discrepancy between the agendas seen as urgent by hierarchs and by laypeople. While the fathers of the council based their work on categories of late antiquity, communicating a lack of interest about the “secular” reality, laypeople have stressed a hermeneutic rethinking of Byzantine identity, of Orthodox hermeneutics, of making people aware of and interpreting the historical heritage of Orthodoxy. On the one hand, observers received a message of a lack not only of Orthodox unity, but even of the interpretation of what that unity should consist of. On the other hand, the council unintentionally mobilized Orthodox people worldwide for unity, gathering at the first congress of the International Orthodox Theological Association three years after the council.
The Mission of the Church in the Contemporary World in Light of the Decisions of the Holy and Great Council
Authors: Metropolitan Nifon of Targoviste
Published: August 2020

This article discusses the place of mission in the Orthodox Church. The document “The Mission of the Orthodox Church in Today's World,” which was approved by the Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church held in Crete in 2016, is still in the process of reception, as are the other documents, but it constitutes, without doubt, a new era in Orthodox missiology – as indeed the Great and Holy Council in Crete represents a new era in Orthodoxy. The interrelatedness of unity and mission is not a question of methodology or strategy. It is an ontological one: it is related to the very essence of koinonia as fellowship in the triune God, and to the specific aspect of κοινονια as participation in God's economy in and for the world. Mission is commitment to the work of the triune God incarnated in Jesus Christ. Both are God’s gift and command. It is only in unity with the Holy Trinity that the church is able to fulfil its vocation.
The Council of Crete
Authors: Kattan Assaad Elias
Published: August 2020

This article offers a critical assessment of the Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church that took place in Crete in 2016. It argues that the situation facing the Orthodox churches after the Council of Crete is far more important than everything that directly preceded it, and that the Orthodox are only at the beginning as far as the important questions and challenges of the world today are concerned.
“Who Can Proclaim the Mighty Acts of the Lord?”
Authors: Koukoura Dimitra A.
Published: August 2020

The Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church that met in Crete in 2016 reaffirmed that mission and evangelism is a duty for Orthodox faithful, especially in Europe, which is often seen as a terrain for evangelization by movements coming from the global South. This requires caution, planning, accountability, and especially deep faith, against the background of complacency observed among members of the Orthodox Church that creates a noticeable missionary vacuum. The article underlines the necessity to begin with honest self‐criticism by pastors and teachers, clergy and laypeople and to follow this with serious pastoral planning in relation to the modern social and cultural environment and the needs of the people.
The Documents of the Council of Crete
Authors: Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk
Published: August 2020

This document is the translation of a report given on 29 November 2017 by Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk to the Bishops’ Council of the Russian Orthodox Church. It presents the results of the study by the Synodal Biblical‐Theological Commission of the Russian Orthodox Church of the documents adopted by the Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church at its meeting in Crete from 19 to 26 June 2016. This report is followed by the decisions of the Bishops’ Council concerning the Council of Crete.
Coordination inside government administrations: Lessons from the EU Commission
Authors: Senninger Roman , Finke Daniel , Blom‐Hansen Jens
Published: August 2020

How can interdepartmental coordination in large political‐administrative systems be organized? This question has vexed scholars and practitioners for more than 100 years. Two perspectives—one that features hierarchical direction and one hallmarked by horizontal negotiation—dominate the scholarly debate. However, we know surprisingly little about how interdepartmental coordination is handled in practice. This article presents an empirical study in an entire political‐administrative system, the EU Commission, and examines whether interdepartmental coordination is hierarchical or negotiated. Our study is based on almost 6,000 cases and original measures of departmental policy expertise derived from quantitative text analysis. Our results indicate that interdepartmental coordination is primarily driven by concerns of administrative turfs and thus lend support to the negotiated coordination perspective.
Opposing the toxic apartheid: The painted veil of the COVID‐19 pandemic, race and racism
Authors: Gao Grace , Sai Linna
Published: August 2020

This article is a personal reflection of how the coronavirus exposes ‘shocking’ levels of racism against us, and our vulnerability as Chinese women living in Britain. By reflecting our experiences of verbal and physical race‐based violence connected to coronavirus, we explore the fluidity of our racial identities, the taken‐for‐granted racial stereotypes and white privilege, and everyday racism in the UK. Can the vulnerable use vulnerability as an agent to shift the moment of helplessness? We contribute to the uncomfortable yet important debate on racism against Chinese women living in the UK through voicing up our embodied vulnerability as invisible and disempowered subjects to this viral anti‐Chinese racism. This is a form of resistance where we care for the racialized and marginalized others. In doing so, we lift the painted veil of the pandemic, race and racism to collectively combat racial inequalities.
Seabird species‐ and assemblage‐level isotopic niche shifts associated with changing prey availability during breeding in coastal Newfoundland
Authors: Jenkins Edward J. , Davoren Gail K.
Published: August 2020

Shifting prey availability can lead to altered species interactions, indicated by variation in the dietary niche breadth and position of species within an assemblage. On the Newfoundland coast, annual inshore spawning migration of the dominant forage fish, CapelinMallotus villosus, provides an excellent opportunity to investigate the influence of varying prey availability on dietary niche breadth and position among species. During June–August 2017, we investigated species‐ and assemblage‐level dietary responses to shifting Capelin availability of three Capelin‐eating, sympatrically breeding auk species, the Atlantic PuffinFratercula arctica, RazorbillAlca tordaand Common MurreUria aalge. The diet of Leach's Storm PetrelsOceanodroma leucorhoa, which breed alongside the three auk species but are not known to rely on Capelin, was also examined to determine dietary shifts throughout breeding that were unrelated to Capelin availability. We quantified stable isotope ratios (δ15N, δ13C) in seabird blood components (plasma, cellular component) collected both before and after spawning Capelin arrived in the study area and compared isotopic niche breadth within a Bayesian framework. At the species level, auk trophic position increased and isotopic niche breadth narrowed after Capelin arrived, suggesting a more Capelin‐based diet. Simultaneously, trophic diversity of the auk assemblage, reflecting the extent of spacing among niches of species, decreased after spawning Capelin arrived inshore. Contrastingly, increased trophic position but broader isotopic niche breadth during higher relative to lower Capelin availability for Leach's Storm Petrel confirm that this species is probably not affected by the inshore arrival of Capelin, but instead that isotopic changes may be more related to a shift in breeding stage to chick‐rearing. Overall, our findings reiterate the importance of Capelin as a prey resource for breeding auks in coastal Newfoundland, but that the degree of reliance on Capelin varies among species, possibly allowing coexistence of these ecologically similar species. The findings highlight potential changing species interactions, such as increased competition, under declines in Capelin biomass.
The impact of minimally invasive root canal preparation strategies on the ability to shape root canals of mandibular molars
Authors: Lima C. O. , Barbosa A. F. A. , Ferreira C. M. , Augusto C. M. , Sassone L. M. , Lopes R. T. , Fidel S. R. , Silva E. J. N. L.
Published: August 2020

Aim

To evaluate the use of a reduced taper endodontic instrument system (Bassi Logic™ .03 taper) and expandable heat‐treated system (XP‐endo Shaper) on the ability to shape canals in mandibular molars, by means of microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT) analysis. The Reciproc system was used as the reference for comparison.

Methodology

Twenty‐four mandibular molars were scanned in a micro‐CT, matched based on similar anatomical features and sorted into three groups (n = 8 per group), according to root canal preparation system: Bassi Logic™ .03, XP‐endo Shaper and Reciproc. The teeth were mounted onto a mannequin and the pulp chambers were accessed with traditional access cavities. In Bassi Logic™ .03 and Reciproc groups, mesial canals were prepared with size 25, .03 taper or R25 (size 25, .08v taper) instruments and the distal root canal with size 25, .03 taper and size 40, .03 taper or R25 and R40 (size 40, .06v taper), respectively. In XP‐endo Shaper groups, all root canals were prepared with XP‐endo Shaper (size 30, .04v taper). After root canal preparation, the teeth were rescanned. The percentage of untouched canal areas and the percentage of removed dentine were evaluated separately for mesial and distal root canals. The data were analysed using one‐way anova and Tukey tests (P < 0.05).

Results

The Bassi Logic™ .03 group was associated with a greater percentage of untouched canal areas when compared to XP‐endo Shaper and Reciproc groups for mesial and distal root canals (P < 0.05), but no differences were found between XP‐endo Shaper and Reciproc groups (P > 0.05). No significant difference was observed in the percentage of dentine removed amongst the groups for mesial and distal root canals (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The use of a reduced taper system (Bassi Logic™ .03) during root canal preparation resulted in a greater percentage of untouched canal areas when compared to XP‐endo Shaper and Reciproc instruments. No differences were observed amongst the systems regarding the percentage of dentine removed.
Mineral trioxide aggregate suppresses pro‐inflammatory cytokine expression via the calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T cells/early growth response 2 pathway in lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated macrophages
Authors: Kuramoto M. , Kawashima N. , Tazawa K. , Nara K. , Fujii M. , Noda S. , Hashimoto K. , Nozaki K. , Okiji T.
Published: August 2020

Aim

To elucidate mechanisms by which mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) suppresses pro‐inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages.

Methodology

Mineral trioxide aggregate extracts were prepared by immersing set ProRoot MTA in culture medium. RAW264.7 cells were cultured in the presence of LPS and MTA extracts. mRNA expression levels of interleukin (IL)‐1α, IL‐6, early growth response 2 (Egr2), suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 (Socs3) and IL‐10 were quantified with reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Phosphorylation of nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) p65 in RAW264.7 cells was analysed by Western blotting. Intracellular calcium imaging was performed with Fluo‐4 AM. The activity of nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) was determined by luciferase assays. Enforced expression and silencing of Egr2 in RAW264.7 cells were carried out using an expression vector and specific RNAi, respectively. In vivo kinetics of Egr2+ cells in MTA‐treated rat molar pulp tissues were examined using immunohistochemistry. Data were analysed by one‐way analysis of variance, followed by the Tukey–Kramer test (P < 0.05).

Results

Exposure to MTA extracts resulted in reduced mRNA expression levels of IL‐1α and IL‐6, as well as reduced expression of phosphorylated NF‐κB, in LPS‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Exposure to MTA extracts induced Ca2+ influx, which was blocked by NPS2143, an antagonist of calcium‐sensing receptor (CaSR); Ca2+ influx then triggered activation of calcineurin/NFAT signalling and enhanced mRNA expression of Egr2. Enforced expression of Egr2 in RAW264.7 cells promoted the expression of both IL‐10 and Socs3. In vivo application of MTA onto rat molar pulp tissue resulted in the appearance of Egr2‐expressing cells that coexpressed CD163, a typical M2 macrophage marker.

Conclusions

Mineral trioxide aggregate extracts induced downregulation of IL‐1α and IL‐6 in LPS‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells via CaSR‐induced activation of calcineurin/NFAT/Egr2 signalling and subsequent upregulation of IL‐10 and Socs3.
Extract‐stent‐replace for treatment of upper baffle stenosis with pacing leads after atrial switch procedures for transposition of the great arteries: An approach to avoid “jailing” the lead
Authors: Merrill Miranda , Krebsbach Angela , Przybylowicz Ryle , Broberg Craig S. , Burch Grant , Henrikson Charles A.
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Venous stenosis is a late complication of the atrial switch (Mustard/Senning) procedure seen in patients with transposition of the great arteries (
d‐TGA). Many atrial switch patients require cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) which further increases the incidence of venous stenosis. Stenosis of the superior limb of the systemic venous pathway (SLSVP) in the presence of CIED leads presents a management challenge. We propose a method for navigating SLSVP stenosis in atrial switch patients with CIEDs.

Methods

The pulse generator and leads were removed using standard extraction techniques. Axillary access was retained via existing leads or new access was obtained. The interventional cardiology team, via groin access, performed stent‐angioplasty of the stenotic SLSVP. After stent deployment, the axillary access wire was snared from below, guided through the stent, and pulled into a long groin sheath. A sheath was then advanced over the axillary wire and into the groin sheath creating a path for passage of leads through the stent. New leads were advanced through the axillary sheath into the heart. Leads were secured using standard techniques.

Results

All patients had a history of d‐TGA and prior atrial switch procedures. In each case, there was stenosis of the SLSVP in the setting of a CIED lead. There were no immediate complications and there was no restenosis on follow‐up.

Conclusion

Post‐atrial switch patients with CIEDs can develop stenosis of the SLSVP. A collaboration between electrophysiology and interventional cardiology can allow for device extraction, stent‐angioplasty, and lead reimplantation to avoid “jailing” the leads.
Effects of sphingolipids overload on red blood cell properties in Gaucher disease
Authors: Dupuis Lucie , Chipeaux Caroline , Bourdelier Emmanuelle , Martino Suella , Reihani Nelly , Belmatoug Nadia , Billette de Villemeur Thierry , Hivert Bénédicte , Moussa Fathi , Le Van Kim Caroline , de Person Marine , Franco Mélanie
Published: August 2020

Gaucher disease (GD) is a genetic disease with mutations in the GBA gene that encodes glucocerebrosidase causing complications such as anaemia and bone disease. GD is characterized by accumulation of the sphingolipids (SL) glucosylceramide (GL1), glucosylsphingosine (Lyso‐GL1), sphingosine (Sph) and sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P). These SL are increased in the plasma of GD patients and the associated complications have been attributed to the accumulation of lipids in macrophages. Our recent findings indicated that red blood cells (RBCs) and erythroid progenitors may play an important role in GD pathophysiology. RBCs abnormalities and dyserythropoiesis have been observed in GD patients. Moreover, we showed higher SL levels in the plasma and in RBCs from untreated GD patients compared with controls. In this study, we quantified SL in 16 untreated GD patients and 15 patients treated with enzyme replacement therapy. Our results showed that the treatment significantly decreases SL levels in the plasma and RBCs. The increased SL content in RBCs correlates with abnormal RBC properties and with markers of disease activity. Because RBCs lack glucocerebrosidase activity, we investigated how lipid overload could occur in these cells. Our results suggested that SL overload in RBCs occurs both during erythropoiesis and during its circulation in the plasma.
Combined pre‐conditioning with salidroside and hypoxia improves proliferation, migration and stress tolerance of adipose‐derived stem cells
Authors: He Yuan , Ma Mudi , Yan Yiguang , Chen Can , Luo Hui , Lei Wei
Published: August 2020

Oxidative stress after ischaemia impairs the function of transplanted stem cells. Increasing evidence has suggested that either salidroside (SAL) or hypoxia regulates growth of stem cells. However, the role of SAL in regulating function of hypoxia‐pre–conditioned stem cells remains elusive. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effect of SAL and hypoxia pre‐conditionings on the proliferation, migration and tolerance against oxidative stress in rat adipose‐derived stem cells (rASCs). rASCs treated with SAL under normoxia (20% O2) or hypoxia (5% O2) were analysed for the cell viability, proliferation, migration and resistance against H2O2‐induced oxidative stress. In addition, the activation of Akt, Erk1/2, LC3, NF‐κB and apoptosis‐associated pathways was assayed by Western blot. The results showed that SAL and hypoxia treatments synergistically enhanced the viability (fold) and proliferation of rASCs under non‐stressed conditions in association with increased autophagic flux and activation of Akt, Erk1/2 and LC3. H2O2‐induced oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, apoptosis, autophagic cell death and NF‐κB activation were inhibited by SAL or hypoxia, and further attenuated by the combined SAL and hypoxia pre‐treatment. The SAL and hypoxia pre‐treatment also enhanced the proliferation and migration of rASCs under oxidative stress in association with Akt and Erk1/2 activation; however, the combined pre‐treatment exhibited a more profound enhancement in the migration than proliferation. Our data suggest that SAL combined with hypoxia pre‐conditioning may enhance the therapeutic capacity of ASCs in post‐ischaemic repair.
Fiber‐reinforced composite fixed dental prosthesis using an additive manufactured silicone index
Authors: Gonzalez Ana M. , Piedra‐Cascón Wenceslao , Zandinejad Amirali , Revilla‐León Marta
Published: August 2020

Objective

Digital tools such as facial and intraoral digitizers and additive manufacturing (AM) technologies assist restorative treatments. The objective of the present manuscript was to describe a workflow procedure for treatment planning and fabricating a fiber‐reinforced composite fixed dental prosthesis (FDP) replacing an absent maxillary lateral incisor, using additively manufactured silicone indices to facilitate the clinical intervention.

Clinical considerations

The elaboration of a direct fiber‐reinforced composite restoration is a technique sensitive procedure which might be time‐consuming for the clinician. The digital waxing helped to determine the exact position and size of the lingual wings and connectors of the fiber‐reinforced FDP and to design a three‐piece index. And the AM of the index helped to transfer the information to the patient's dentition accurately.

Conclusions

The protocol minimizes the time of clinical intervention by facilitating the transference of the virtual diagnostic waxing teeth into the patient's mouth. The three‐piece silicone index provides an individualized path of insertion of each index part while also providing a customized space and location of the lingual wings of the restoration.

Clinical significance

The usage of AM silicone indices facilitates the clinical intervention by translating the size and position of the diagnostic wax‐up teeth into the patient's mouth, minimizing clinical procedure's time.
Comment on: Coronavirus 2019 in Geriatrics and Long‐Term Care: The ABCDs of COVID‐19:
Authors: Castagna Alberto , Manzo Ciro , Ruotolo Giovanni
Published: August 2020

This letter comments on the article by D'Adamo et al.
Knockin’ on heaven’s door: Molecular mechanisms of neuronal tau uptake
Authors: De La‐Rocque Samantha , Moretto Edoardo , Butnaru Ioana , Schiavo Giampietro
Published: August 2020

Since aggregates of the microtubule‐binding protein tau were found to be the main component of neurofibrillary tangles more than 30 years ago, their contribution to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and tauopathies has become well established. Recent work shows that both tau load and its distribution in the brain of AD patients correlate with cognitive decline more closely compared to amyloid plaque deposition. In addition, the amyloid cascade hypothesis has been recently challenged because of disappointing results of clinical trials designed to treat AD by reducing beta‐amyloid levels, thus fuelling a renewed interest in tau. There is now robust evidence to indicate that tau pathology can spread within the central nervous system via a prion‐like mechanism following a stereotypical pattern, which can be explained by the trans‐synaptic inter‐neuronal transfer of pathological tau. In the receiving neuron, tau has been shown to take multiple routes of internalisation, which are partially dependent on its conformation and aggregation status. Here, we review the emerging mechanisms proposed for the uptake of extracellular tau in neurons and the requirements for the propagation of its pathological conformers, addressing how they gain access to physiological tau monomers in the cytosol. Furthermore, we highlight some of the key mechanistic gaps of the field, which urgently need to be addressed to expand our understanding of tau propagation and lead to the identification of new therapeutic strategies for tauopathies.

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Sleep Well Be Well: Pilot of a digital intervention to improve child behavioural sleep problems
Authors: Hiscock Harriet , Ng Olivia , Crossley Louise , Chow Jennifer , Rausa Vanessa , Hearps Stephen
Published: August 2020

Aim

To investigate whether a digital sleep intervention improves child and care giver sleep and psychosocial outcomes.

Methods

A total of 120 families with children aged 2–13 years, reporting moderate to severe child behavioural sleep problems, were recruited from a hospital sleep clinic waitlist or the community. Children from non‐English speaking families, with known intellectual disability (IQ < 70) or severe medical problems excluded. Tailored behavioural sleep strategies were delivered to primary care givers via a smart phone app and complementary website. Eligible families completed a baseline questionnaire and child ‘sleep check’ then received the digital sleep intervention for 5 weeks, and then completed a post questionnaire. Outcomes: care giver report of child sleep as no/mild versus moderate/severe problem over past month (primary outcome); problem child sleep patterns (Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire or Child Sleep Habits Questionnaire), child temperament, care giver mental health (Kessler 6), care giver sleep, health service use for their child's sleep and time off work/activities to access services.

Results

At follow up, care givers reported fewer moderate/severe child sleep problems (84.6–40.7%), improved problem child sleep patterns, better temperament and improved care giver mental health. Care giver sleep quality and quantity remained unchanged. Health service use (averaged over a 6‐month period pre‐ and post‐intervention) fell from 18.9% pre‐ to 14.1% post‐intervention.

Conclusion

A digital sleep intervention appears promising in improving sleep in children with moderate/severe behavioural sleep problems, and care giver mental health. It may be a useful alternative to face‐to‐face management of behavioural sleep problems.
Genetic diversity of Puccinia kuehnii, the causal agent of orange rust of sugarcane, from Brazil
Authors: Urashima Alfredo Seiiti , Mistura Tatiane de Fátima , Porto Lis Natali Rodrigues , Austin Paige Dariel , Arias Renee Silvia
Published: August 2020

The use of resistant genotypes is the preferred method to control orange rust of sugarcane (Saccharum spp) caused by Puccinia kuehnii. This approach has been adopted in Brazil but outbreaks of the disease on previously resistant varieties showed that the efficacy of this method is limited and requires a better understanding of pathogen diversity. Nevertheless, adequate molecular markers for examining pathogen diversity at population level are not available, which limits the success of orange rust control by genetic resistance. Therefore, two independent investigations were conducted to examine genetic diversity of P. kuehnii from São Paulo state, the most important sugarcane growing state of Brazil. First, simple‐sequence repeat (SSR) markers were developed in the present work and genotypic diversity of orange rust isolates from different locations investigated. Second, phenotypic diversity was examined by the single‐pustule inoculation technique on P. kuehnii isolates retrieved from three susceptible commercial sugarcane cultivars. A total of 96 SSR markers were generated and tested for this species. Subsequently, 29 isolates of P. kuehnii were fingerprinted with nine SSR markers to estimate the genotypic diversity by neighbour‐joining and 3D principal coordinates. The 29 isolates of the pathogen clustered into four main groups, which were identified by three SSR markers (NPRL_PK_108a, NPRL_PK_162_spka and NPRL_PK_221_spka). Phenotypic data at 21 days after the single‐pustule inoculation showed that P. kuehnii from highly susceptible commercial cultivars harboured a small proportion of variants capable of causing disease on resistant cultivars. A differential reaction was demonstrated for the most virulent variant in a repeated experiment confirming the existence of races within P. kuehnii in Brazil.
The large, diverse, and robust arsenal of Ralstonia solanacearum type III effectors and their in planta functions
Authors: Landry David , González‐Fuente Manuel , Deslandes Laurent , Peeters Nemo
Published: August 2020

The type III secretion system with its delivered type III effectors (T3Es) is one of the main virulence determinants of Ralstonia solanacearum, a worldwide devastating plant pathogenic bacterium affecting many crop species. The pan‐effectome of the R. solanacearum species complex has been exhaustively identified and is composed of more than 100 different T3Es. Among the reported strains, their content ranges from 45 to 76 T3Es. This considerably large and varied effectome could be considered one of the factors contributing to the wide host range of R. solanacearum. In order to understand how R. solanacearum uses its T3Es to subvert the host cellular processes, many functional studies have been conducted over the last three decades. It has been shown that R. solanacearum effectors, as those from other plant pathogens, can suppress plant defence mechanisms, modulate the host metabolism, or avoid bacterial recognition through a wide variety of molecular mechanisms. R. solanacearum T3Es can also be perceived by the plant and trigger immune responses. To date, the molecular mechanisms employed by R. solanacearum T3Es to modulate these host processes have been described for a growing number of T3Es, although they remain unknown for the majority of them. In this microreview, we summarize and discuss the current knowledge on the characterized R. solanacearum species complex T3Es.
Pan‐Islamic ideals and national loyalties: Competing attachments amongst early Muslim activists in France
Authors: Dazey Margot
Published: August 2020

Islamist movements are often considered the epitomes of transnational movements; however, little is known about the concrete workings of their transnational ambitions. In investigating the evolution of Muslim activists in France from the late 1970s to the early 1990s, this article shows that their embrace of pan‐Islamic ideals initially conflicted with strong investment in (Arab) homeland politics. Later on, their engagement with a French Islam signalled less the emergence of a de‐territorialised, de‐culturalised Islamic identity than it did the assertion of new nationally bounded (French) attachments. Overall, the analysis sheds light on a stimulating puzzle regarding cosmopolitanism: the persistence of national forms of identification in movements that aspire to bypass national affiliations.
Tricin and tricin‐lignins in Medicago versus in monocots
Authors: Ralph John
Published: August 2020

This article is a Commentary on Lui et al. (2020), 228: 269–284.
Rank‐based Tests for Cross‐sectional Dependence in Large (N, T) Fixed Effects Panel Data Models
Authors: Feng Long , Ding Yanling , Liu Binghui
Published: August 2020

Most existing methods for testing cross‐sectional dependence in fixed effects panel data models are actually conducting tests for cross‐sectional uncorrelation, which are not robust to departures of normality of the error distributions as well as nonlinear cross‐sectional dependence. To this end, we construct two rank‐based tests for (static and dynamic) fixed effects panel data models, based on two very popular rank correlations, that is, Kendall's tau and Bergsma–Dassios’ τ*, respectively, and derive their asymptotic distributions under the null hypothesis. Monte Carlo simulations demonstrate applicability of these rank‐based tests in large (N,T) case, and also the robustness to departures of normality of the error distributions and nonlinear cross‐sectional dependence.
One‐year results of 0.01% atropine with orthokeratology (AOK) study: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Tan Qi , Ng Alex LK , Choy Bonnie NK , Cheng George PM , Woo Victor CP , Cho Pauline
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To report the 1‐year results of an investigation into whether there is an additive effect between 0.01% atropine and orthokeratology (ortho‐k), in a single‐masked, two‐arm, randomised controlled trial: Combined Atropine with Orthokeratology (AOK) for myopia control study (ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT02955927).

Methods

Chinese children aged between 6 and 11 years with 1.00–4.00 D of myopia, astigmatism <2.50 D, and no more than 1.00 D anisometropia, were randomly assigned either to an AOK group or ortho‐k only (OK) group at a 1:1 ratio. Subjects in the AOK group instilled one drop of 0.01% atropine into each eye, 10 min before nightly wear of ortho‐k lenses. The primary outcome, axial elongation, was examined at 6‐monthly intervals, along with secondary outcomes including best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), manifest refraction, accommodation, pupil size, and corneal topography.

Results

29 AOK and 30 OK subjects completed the 1‐year visit. The overall axial elongation rate was significantly slower in the AOK group than in the OK group (mean (S.D.), 0.07 (0.16) mm vs 0.16 (0.15) mm, respectively; p = 0.03). A significant between‐group difference in axial elongation was observed over the first 6‐month period only (p < 0.001), but not over the second period (p = 0.818). At the 1‐year visit, increases in mean (S.D.) mesopic and photopic pupil sizes in the AOK group were 0.64 (0.48) mm and 0.36 (0.34) mm, respectively, which were significantly higher than 0.10 (0.50) mm and 0.02 (0.28) mm in the OK group (p < 0.001). At the 6‐month visit, a significant moderate negative correlation was found between axial elongation and the increase in photopic pupil size (r = −0.42, p = 0.02) in the AOK group.

Conclusions

There is an additive effect between 0.01% atropine and ortho‐k over one year, with mean axial elongation in the AOK group 0.09 mm slower than that in the OK group. It appears that the additive effect was only during the first six months; a second‐year investigation is warranted to determine whether the effect is sustained over time.
Clinical Guideline for Microwave Ablation of Bone Tumors in Extremities
Authors: Zheng Kai , Yu Xiuchun , Hu Yongcheng , Zhang Yingze , Wang Zhen , Wu Sujia , Shen Jingnan , Ye Zhaoming , Tu Chongqi , Zhang Yu , Wei Xing , Hu Yong , Wang Xuquan , Li Jiazhen , Duan Hong , Wu Yuxian , Xu Ming , Yuan Zhenchao , Wei Yongzhong , Chen Bingyao
Published: August 2020

Microwave ablation has been used to treat bone tumors in extremities for more than 30 years. With improved recognition, updated microwave equipment, and expanded clinical application, microwave ablation has recently been widely used to treat bone tumors. To standardize the application of microwave ablation in the clinical treatment of bone tumors in the limbs, research results and clinical experience involving the use of microwave ablation to treat bone tumors in the limbs have been summarized, and a clinical guideline has been designed. This guideline is aimed at providing a reliable clinical basis for indications, preoperative evaluation and decision‐making, perioperative treatment, complications, and other issues via evidence‐based medicine. Two aspects are considered—percutaneous microwave ablation and intraoperative microwave ablation of bone tumors in extremities. Ultimately, the guideline is intended to standardize treatment and improve the clinical efficacy of microwave ablation of bone tumors in extremities.
H syndrome with a novel homozygous SLC29A3 mutation in two sisters
Authors: Demir Damla , Aktaş Karabay Ezgi , Sözeri Betül , Gürsoy Fatıma , Akgün Doğan Özlem , Topaktaş Eylem , Zindancı İlkin
Published: August 2020

H syndrome (OMIM 602782) is a recently defined autosomal recessive genodermatosis. Cutaneous findings of H syndrome include hyperpigmentation, hypertrichosis, and induration, while hearing loss, heart anomalies, hepatomegaly, hypogonadism, hyperglycemia (diabetes mellitus), low height (short stature), hallux valgus (flexion contractures), and hematological abnormalities are the extracutaneous abnormalities. We report a novel homozygous missense mutation, c.416T > C p.(Leu139Pro), in the SLC29A3 (NM_001174098.1) gene in two sisters with H syndrome presenting with different phenotypes.
Transcriptome‐wide isolation and expression of NF‐Y gene family in male cone development and hormonal treatment of Pinus tabuliformis
Authors: Guo Yingtian , Niu Shihui , El‐Kassaby Yousry A. , Li Wei
Published: August 2020

It is known that nuclear factor Y (NF‐Y) transcription factors play an important role in flowering time regulation and hormone response (ABA, GA) in angiosperms, but, little known in conifers. Moreover, the NF‐Y gene family has not been comprehensively reported in conifers. Here, we identified 9 NF‐YA, 9 NF‐YB and 10 NF‐YC genes in Pinus tabuliformis using Arabidopsis NF‐Y protein sequences as queries. Additionally, by comparing conserved regions and phylogenetic relationships of the PtNF‐Ys, we found that NF‐Ys were both conserved and altered during evolution. PtTFL2, PtCO, PtNF‐YC1 and PtNF‐YC4 were exploited by expression profile in male cone development and correlation analysis. Furthermore, NF‐YC1/4 and DPL (DELLA protein of P. tabuliformis) were interacted by yeast two‐hybrid and BiFC assays, which suggested that NF‐YC1/4 may be involved in gibberellins signaling pathway. Moreover, the multiple types of phytohormones‐responsive cis‐elements (ABA, JA, IAA, SA) have been found, and gene expression profile analysis showed that many NF‐Y genes responded positively to SA and as opposed to IAA and JA, revealing the potential role of NF‐Ys in conifers resistance. In summary, this study provided the basis for further investigation of the function of NF‐Y genes in conifers.
Effect of pterostilbene on development, equatorial lipid accumulation and reactive oxygen species production of in vitro‐produced bovine embryos
Authors: Sosa Froylan , Romo Salvador , Kjelland Michael E. , Álvarez‐Gallardo Horacio , Pérez‐Reynozo Sandra , Urbán‐Duarte David , De La Torre‐Sánchez Jose Fernando
Published: August 2020

The pterostilbene (PT) molecule is a phytoalexin with a reducing effect on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and with a capacity to block lipogenesis. However, the potential reducing effects of PT on equatorial lipid accumulation and ROS have not yet been elucidated for in vitro‐derived bovine embryos. The present study evaluated the effects of concentrations of 3, 1, 0.33, 0.11 μM PT, and a vehicle group on the percentage of cleaved embryos, embryos with more than 6 cells, percentage of blastocyst on Day 7 and 8, percentage of transferable embryos on Day 7, the cell count and relative concentration of lipids. In the second experiment, the effects of 0.33 μM PT and a vehicle group within two different O2 environments (5% and 20%) were evaluated for ROS generation and the percentage of Day 8 blastocysts. In the first experiment, no significant differences were found between the treatments with PT and the vehicle group (p > .05) concerning the percentage of cleaved embryos and embryos with more than 6 cells. Lipid reduction was observed in the groups treated with PT versus the vehicle group (p < .05). The vehicle group showed a higher rate of blastocyst production on Days 7 and 8 (p < .05) and an increase in the percentage of transferable embryos on Day 7 compared to the PT treatment groups (p < .05). Cell counts were not significantly different between treatments with PT and the vehicle group (p > .05). In the second experiment, the O2 concentration did not significantly affect ROS generation (p > .05); however, the groups treated with PT (0.33 μM) had a reduction in ROS (p < .05). The O2 concentration also did not significantly affect the rate of blastocyst production on Day 8 (p = .7696). Future research should be conducted to ascertain whether the reduction of lipids could enhance the cryopreservation and post‐thaw viability of PT‐treated embryos.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DRB3*01:86 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Cargou Marine , Andreani Marco , Galluccio Tiziana , Blouin Laura , Visentin Jonathan
Published: August 2020

HLA‐DRB3*01:86 differs from HLA‐DRB3*01:01:02:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 225 in exon 4.
Leukapheresis for the management of hyperleukocytosis in acute myeloid leukemia—A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bewersdorf Jan P. , Giri Smith , Tallman Martin S. , Zeidan Amer M. , Stahl Maximilian
Published: August 2020

Background

Up to 20% of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) present with hyperleukocytosis, usually defined as a white blood cell (WBC) count greater than 100 × 109/L. Given the high early mortality rate, emergent cytoreduction with either leukapheresis, hydroxyurea, or chemotherapy is indicated, but the optimal strategy is unknown.

Study Design and Methods

For this systematic review and meta‐analysis we searched MEDLINE and EMBASE via Ovid, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Web of Science from inception through March 2020 for multiarm studies comparing early mortality rates of patients with AML treated with leukapheresis and those who were not. The risk ratio (RR) of early death for patients who received leukapheresis vs patients who did not was estimated using a sum of the log‐ratio of individual study estimates weighted by sample size.

Results

Among 13 two‐arm, retrospective studies with 1743 patients (486 leukapheresis and 1257 nonleukapheresis patients), leukapheresis did not improve the primary outcome of early mortality compared to treatment strategies in which leukapheresis was not used (RR, 0.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.69‐1.13; P = .321) without statistically significant heterogeneity between studies (Cochranʼs Q, 18; P = .115; I2, 33.4%). Patients presenting with clinical leukostasis tended to be more likely to undergo leukapheresis (odds ratio, 2.01; 95% CI, 0.99‐4.08; P = .052).

Conclusion

As we did not find evidence of a short‐term mortality benefit and considering the associated complications and logistic burden, our results argue against the routine use of leukapheresis for hyperleukocytosis among patients with AML.