bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogeography and historical demography of the arboreal pit viper Bothrops bilineatus (Serpentes, Crotalinae) reveal multiple connections between Amazonian and Atlantic rain forests
Authors: Dal Vechio Francisco , Prates Ivan , Grazziotin Felipe G. , Zaher Hussam , Rodrigues Miguel Trefaut
Published: August 2018

Aim

To examine historical connections between rain forest habitats in the Neotropics based on the evolutionary history of the arboreal pit viper Bothrops bilineatus.

Location

Amazonia and Atlantic Forest in South America.

Methods

We inferred phylogenetic relationships within Bothrops and phylogeographic relationships within B. bilineatus using both concatenated and species tree approaches under a Bayesian framework based on four mitochondrial and five nuclear genes. We inferred demographic history within B. bilineatus based on tests of alternative historical scenarios using coalescent simulations and Approximate Bayesian Computation.

Results

Phylogenetic analyses recovered four major clades within Bothrops bilineatus. The best‐fit historical scenario involved colonization of the Atlantic Forest by an Amazonian ancestor around 2 Mya, followed by range expansion in the Atlantic Forest. Subsequently, there was a colonization event into the Guiana Shield from an Atlantic Forest ancestor, dating back to around 0.3 Mya.

Main conclusion

The complex demographic history of Bothrops bilineatus shows multiple connection events between Amazonia and the Atlantic Forest in the last 2 million years. Two previously hypothesized forest bridges, southern and northeastern, may have been involved in range expansions in this species. These results shed light on the historical processes involved in the diversification of this venomous South American snake, providing information about the historical dynamism of forested habitats in the Neotropics.
Past climate changes and strong oceanographic barriers structured low‐latitude genetic relics for the golden kelp Laminaria ochroleuca
Authors: Assis Jorge , Serrão Ester Álvares , Coelho Nelson Castilho , Tempera Fernando , Valero Myriam , Alberto Filipe
Published: August 2018

Aim

Drivers of intraspecific biodiversity include past climate‐driven range shifts and contemporary ecological conditions mediating connectivity, but these are rarely integrated in a common comprehensive approach. This is particularly relevant for marine organisms, as ocean currents strongly influence population isolation or connectivity, keeping or diluting the signatures left by past climates. Here we ask whether the coupling between past range shifts and contemporary connectivity explain the extant gene pools of Laminaria ochroleuca, a large brown alga structuring important marine forests from shallow to deep infralittoral grounds.

Location

Northeastern Atlantic Ocean.

Taxon

Laminaria ochroleuca.

Methods

We estimated population genetic diversity and structure of L. ochroleuca across its entire distribution range using 15 polymorphic microsatellite markers. This was compared with the outcomes of a palaeoclimatic model predicting latitudinal and depth range shifts from the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) to the present. Genetic differentiation was further compared with potential connectivity inferred with a biophysical model developed with high‐resolution data from HYCOM (Hybrid Coordinate Ocean Model).

Results

The biogeographical distribution of genetic variability showed overall agreement with the predictions from independently inferred past range shifts. Multiple regions of persistence were identified in deep and upwelling settings at the lowest latitudes of the current species distribution, where higher and unique genetic diversity was retained. The biophysical model revealed that despite the possibility of long‐distance migration, contemporary oceanographic barriers strongly restrict connectivity of isolated genetic lineages.

Main conclusions

Integrating different processes at biogeographical scales explained the extant gene pools of marine forests of L. ochroleuca. Low‐latitude genetic relics harbour a disproportional evolutionary significance, persisting as ancient populations in isolated deep and upwelling climate refugia. Their inferred rates of dispersal may be insufficient to accommodate anticipated climate warming.
The quality of the assignment matters in hypermedia learning
Authors: Paans Cindy , Segers Eliane , Molenaar Inge , Verhoeven Ludo
Published: August 2018

In the present study, we investigated whether online learning behaviours (navigation and writing activities) mediated the relation between learner characteristics (prior knowledge, vocabulary knowledge, working memory, and motivation) and declarative knowledge. Specifically, we investigated whether the quality of participants' written assignments could further explain this relation. For this purpose, 62 fifth‐grade children participated in a WebQuest hypermedia assignment on the subject of the heart. Results showed that online learning behaviours did not mediate the relations between learner characteristics and declarative knowledge when the assignment quality was not included in the model. Adding assignment quality, however, revealed two serial mediation models. Prior knowledge predicted declarative knowledge via the writing activity “copying behaviour” and assignment quality, and vocabulary knowledge predicted declarative knowledge via the navigation activity “time spent on assignment pages” and assignment quality. These results show the importance of taking into account assignment quality when investigating knowledge acquisition in hypermedia environments.
Role of retinal pigment epithelium‐derived exosomes and autophagy in new blood vessel formation
Authors: Atienzar‐Aroca Sandra , Serrano‐Heras Gemma , Freire Valls Aida , Ruiz de Almodovar Carmen , Muriach Maria , Barcia Jorge M. , Garcia‐Verdugo Jose M. , Romero Francisco J. , Sancho‐Pelluz Javier
Published: August 2018

Autophagy and exosome secretion play important roles in a variety of physiological and disease states, including the development of age‐related macular degeneration. Previous studies have demonstrated that these cellular mechanisms share common pathways of activation. Low oxidative damage in ARPE‐19 cells, alters both autophagy and exosome biogenesis. Moreover, oxidative stress modifies the protein and genetic cargo of exosomes, possibly affecting the fate of surrounding cells. In order to understand the connection between these two mechanisms and their impact on angiogenesis, stressed ARPE‐19 cells were treated with a siRNA‐targeting Atg7, a key protein for the formation of autophagosomes. Subsequently, we observed the formation of multivesicular bodies and the release of exosomes. Released exosomes contained VEGFR2 as part of their cargo. This receptor for VEGF—which is critical for the development of new blood vessels—was higher in exosome populations released from stressed ARPE‐19. While stressed exosomes enhanced tube formation, exosomes became ineffective after silencing VEGFR2 in ARPE‐19 cells and were, consequently, unable to influence angiogenesis. Moreover, vessel sprouting in the presence of stressed exosomes seems to follow a VEGF‐independent pathway. We propose that abnormal vessel growth correlates with VEGFR2‐expressing exosomes release from stressed ARPE‐19 cells, and is directly linked to autophagy.
BDNF: mRNA expression in urine cells of patients with chronic kidney disease and its role in kidney function
Authors: Endlich Nicole , Lange Tim , Kuhn Jana , Klemm Paul , Kotb Ahmed M. , Siegerist Florian , Kindt Frances , Lindenmeyer Maja T. , Cohen Clemens D. , Kuss Andreas W. , Nath Neetika , Rettig Rainer , Lendeckel Uwe , Zimmermann Uwe , Amann Kerstin , Stracke Sylvia , Endlich Karlhans
Published: August 2018

Podocyte loss and changes to the complex morphology are major causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD). As the incidence is continuously increasing over the last decades without sufficient treatment, it is important to find predicting biomarkers. Therefore, we measured urinary mRNA levels of podocyte genes NPHS1, NPHS2, PODXL and BDNF, KIM‐1, CTSL by qRT‐PCR of 120 CKD patients. We showed a strong correlation between BDNF and the kidney injury marker KIM‐1, which were also correlated with NPHS1, suggesting podocytes as a contributing source. In human biopsies, BDNF was localized in the cell body and major processes of podocytes. In glomeruli of diabetic nephropathy patients, we found a strong BDNF signal in the remaining podocytes. An inhibition of the BDNF receptor TrkB resulted in enhanced podocyte dedifferentiation. The knockdown of the orthologue resulted in pericardial oedema formation and lowered viability of zebrafish larvae. We found an enlarged Bowman's space, dilated glomerular capillaries, podocyte loss and an impaired glomerular filtration. We demonstrated that BDNF is essential for glomerular development, morphology and function and the expression of BDNF and KIM‐1 is highly correlated in urine cells of CKD patients. Therefore, BDNF mRNA in urine cells could serve as a potential CKD biomarker.
CCR6 controls autoimmune but not innate immunity‐driven experimental arthritis
Authors: Bonelli Michael , Puchner Antonia , Göschl Lisa , Hayer Silvia , Niederreiter Birgit , Steiner Guenter , Tillmann Katharina , Plasenzotti Roberto , Podesser Bruno , Georgel Philippe , Smolen Josef , Scheinecker Clemens , Blüml Stephan
Published: August 2018

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease, characterized by synovial infiltration of various inflammatory cells. Chemokines are involved in controlling the recruitment of different cell types into the synovial membrane. The role of CCR6 in the development of arthritis so far remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of CCR6 in the pathogenesis of arthritis using three different murine arthritis models. Compared to WT animals, CCR6−/− mice developed less clinical signs of arthritis in the collagen‐induced arthritis model but not in the K/BxN serum transfer arthritis model and in the human tumour necrosis factor transgenic arthritis model, suggesting a defect in adaptive effector functions but intact innate effector functions in the development of arthritis in CCR6−/− animals. In line with this, anti‐collagen antibody levels were significantly reduced in CCR6−/− mice compared with WT mice. Moreover, we demonstrate enhanced osteoclastogenesis in vitro in CCR6−/− mice compared with WT mice. However, we did not detect differences in bone mass under steady state conditions in vivo between WT and CCR6‐deficient mice. These data suggest that CCR6 is crucially involved in adaptive but not in innate immunity‐driven arthritis. CCR6 or its chemokine ligand CCL20 might represent a possible new target for the treatment of RA.
PLK1 inhibitor facilitates the suppressing effect of temozolomide on human brain glioma stem cells
Authors: Liu Naijie , Hu Guozhang , Wang Han , Li Zhaohui , Guo Zhigang
Published: August 2018

Glioblastoma is the most frequent and most aggressive brain tumour in adults. Temozolomide is an oral chemotherapy drug and one of the major components of chemotherapy regimens used as a treatment of some brain cancers. We examined the tolerance of stem cells isolated from glioma cell line U87 and U251 to temozolomide (TMZ) and explored the effect of PLK1 (Polo like kinase 1) protein expression on TMZ sensibility. In our results, the inhibitory effects of TMZ on glioma cells U87, U251 and its stem cells were confirmed to be dose dependent and time dependent. Compared with glioma cells, the glioma stem cells showed a greater degree of tolerance. As the concentration of TMZ increased, the expression of PLK1 protein increased in U87 cells, CD133+ U87 stem cells and CD133‐ U87 cells. The increase range of PLK1 protein was large in CD133+ U87 stem cells and small in CD133‐ U87 cells. TMZ treatment in cells with low PLK1 protein expression efficiently suppressed the cell proliferation and sphere formation, while G2/M arrest was strongly induced. What's more, TMZ and PLK1 inhibitor synergize to inhibit glioma growth in vivo. In conclusion, our results suggest that down‐regulation of PLK1 protein enhanced the inhibition of TMZ on glioma stem cells, suggesting its clinical value to adverse TMZ resistance in glioma treatment.
Reduction of PINK1 or DJ‐1 impair mitochondrial motility in neurites and alter ER‐mitochondria contacts
Authors: Parrado‐Fernández Cristina , Schreiner Bernadette , Ankarcrona Maria , Conti Melissa M. , Cookson Mark R. , Kivipelto Miia , Cedazo‐Mínguez Ángel , Sandebring‐Matton Anna
Published: August 2018

Subcellular distribution of mitochondria in neurons is crucial for meeting the energetic demands, as well as the necessity to buffer Ca2+ within the axon, dendrites and synapses. Mitochondrial impairment is an important feature of Parkinson disease (PD), in which both familial parkinsonism genes DJ‐1 and PINK1 have a great impact on mitochondrial function. We used differentiated human dopaminergic neuroblastoma cell lines with stable PINK1 or DJ‐1 knockdown to study live motility of mitochondria in neurites. The frequency of anterograde and retrograde mitochondrial motility was decreased in PINK1 knockdown cells and the frequency of total mitochondrial motility events was reduced in both cell lines. However, neither the distribution nor the size of mitochondria in the neurites differed from the control cells even after downregulation of the mitochondrial fission protein, Drp1. Furthermore, mitochondria from PINK1 knockdown cells, in which motility was most impaired, had increased levels of GSK3βSer9 and higher release of mitochondrial Ca2+ when exposed to CCCP‐induced mitochondrial uncoupling. Further analysis of the ER‐mitochondria contacts involved in Ca2+ shuttling showed that PINK1 knockdown cells had reduced contacts between the two organelles. Our results give new insight on how PINK1 and DJ‐1 influence mitochondria, thus providing clues to novel PD therapies.
Down‐regulated in OA cartilage, SFMBT2 contributes to NF‐κB‐mediated ECM degradation
Authors: Hussain Safdar , Sun Mengyao , Min Zixin , Guo Yuanxu , Xu Jing , Mushtaq Nosheen , Heng Lisong , Huang Huang , Zhao Yitong , Yuan Ying , Hussain Nazim , Zhang Fujun , Han Yan , Xu Peng , Sun Jian , Lu Shemin
Published: August 2018

The interplay between anabolic and catabolic factors regulates cartilage matrix homoeostasis. In OA, this balance is disrupted which results in cartilage degradation involving a plethora of inflammatory factors. Here, we identify a novel gene “Scm‐like with four MBT domains protein 2” (SFMBT2) negatively regulated in OA cartilage. Articular cartilage from human OA patients undergoing knee arthroplasty surgery exhibited significantly decreased levels of SFMBT2 compared to the normal controls. Down‐regulation of SFMBT2 by specific siRNA disturbed the metabolic homoeostasis and led to decreased expression of anabolic genes (SOX9, COL2A1) while increasing the expression of catabolic genes (MMP13 and ADAMTS4), in human chondrocytes. Finally, we revealed that SFMBT2 intervention by siRNA contributed to the catabolic phenotype of human chondrocytes mediated by NF‐kB pathway.
Controlled cellular redox, repressive hemin utilization and adaptive stress responses are crucial to metronidazole tolerance of Porphyromonas gingivalis persisters
Authors: Li Peng , Fung Yi‐Man Eva , Yin Xiaohui , Seneviratne Chaminda J. , Che Chi‐Ming , Jin Lijian
Published: August 2018

Background

Antimicrobial‐tolerant microbial persisters critically account for various infections and inflammation. This study identified the characteristics of Porphyromonas gingivalis persisters, and explored their underlying survival mechanisms through proteomic profiling.

Methods

Porphyromonas gingivalis cultured with different concentrations of hemin was treated with 100 μg/ml of metronidazole (MTZ). The viability of P. gingivalis persisters was determined by colony‐forming unit assay and LIVE/DEAD staining. The proteomic signature of P. gingivalis persister fractions was examined using LC‐MS/MS and bioinformatic analysis.

Results

A small fraction of P. gingivalis persisters survived from lethal MTZ treatment without heritability. At late exponential phase, the frequency of these persisters significantly increased when incubated with 1 μg/ml of hemin compared to 10 μg/ml. Higher levels of P. gingivalis persisters formed at stationary phase than the late exponential phase. High‐throughput proteomic analysis showed that the persisters markedly downregulated multiple proteins involved in electron transfer and heme/iron utilization essential for redox regulation and MTZ activation. Moreover, the persisters enabled to shut down major cellular activities (e.g. translation) and overexpress stress proteins.

Conclusion

The presence and survival of metronidazole‐tolerant P. gingivalis persisters may be dominated by regulation of cellular redox state and enhanced via repression of heme/iron utilization, dormancy and stress responses.
Periodontitis and platelet count: A new potential link with cardiovascular and other systemic inflammatory diseases
Authors: Romandini Mario , Laforí Andreina , Romandini Pierluigi , Baima Giacomo , Cordaro Massimo
Published: August 2018

Aim

As an infection‐driven inflammatory disease, periodontitis could lead to a reactive increase in platelet count. This mechanism could partially mediate the well‐documented association between periodontitis and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to test the presence of an association between periodontitis and platelet count in a representative sample of the South Korea population.

Materials and methods

A total of 5,197 subjects representative of 34.9 million of adults were examined. Multivariate regression analyses were applied controlling for age, gender, smoking status, educational level, body mass index, alcoholism, diabetes and hypertension status, vitamin D serum levels and total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL and LDL blood levels.

Results

Compared to the non‐severe periodontitis group, subjects with severe periodontitis (CPI = 4) displayed 13,048.93 more platelets for μl of blood (95% CI: 3,296.26–22,801.61, p = 0.009) in the fully‐adjusted model. The association between severe periodontitis and platelet count has shown to be highlighted in subjects aged more than 60 years, females, non‐smokers and with normal HDL blood levels. A systemic inflammatory biomarker (white blood cell count) explained the 19.25% of this association.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, periodontitis—especially severe—is independently associated with a considerable increase in platelet count which is explained, at least in part, by an increase in the systemic inflammation.
Portraying addiction as a disease: A phenomenological answer
Authors: Copoeru Ion
Published: August 2018

This paper stems from the concern that, in certain situations, categorization may lead to the annihilation of the subject. It attempts to answer the question whether there is a way of framing addiction without necessarily putting the addicted persons in categories that hurt them. After showing, in the first section, how stigma is part of the process of becoming (and remaining) addicted, I will turn to the phenomenological tradition in order to re‐consider the main descriptive categories that have been used so far to capture addiction as a “pathological” or “deviant” experience. The second section addresses addiction as an experience of hetero‐transformation of the psycho‐physical unity of the individual, which presupposes a genuine sense of the power of the bodily subject, while the third focuses on the modifications of temporality in addiction, especially in the horizon of trauma. The paper concludes that understanding addiction depends on framing the experience of addiction primarily as a non‐pathological form of expression and looking at it as an attempt to restore the capabilities of a vulnerable subject.
Moritella viscosa in lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus) and Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Einarsdottir Thorbjorg , Sigurdardottir Heida , Bjornsdottir Thorunn Soley , Einarsdottir Elisabet
Published: August 2018

Winter ulcer disease, caused by Moritella viscosa, is a significant problem in cold water salmonid farming, although the bacterium can infect and cause disease in a number of other fish species, such as lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus). Lumpfish are used as cleaner fish, to eat sea lice from Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in sea pens. It remains to be established whether M. viscosa can be transmitted between the fish species. In this study, we examined whether a salmon isolate of M. viscosa could infect and cause disease in lumpfish. We further examined whether a lumpfish isolate of M. viscosa could infect and cause disease in salmon. Finally, we examined whether vaccination of salmon with a salmon isolate of M. viscosa conferred protection against a lumpfish isolate. The data indicate that while lumpfish appeared to be resistant to a salmon isolate of M. viscosa, the salmon could be infected with a lumpfish isolate of M. viscosa. Vaccination protected the salmon against the salmon isolate of M. viscosa but did not confer sufficient protection to prevent infection with the lumpfish isolate.
The effect of non‐thermal processing on chemical constituents and antibacterial properties of turmeric rhizome volatile oil
Authors: Esmaeili Saeideh , Barzegar Mohsen , Sahari Mohammad Ali , Berenji‐Ardestani Samira , Sheikhi Azam
Published: August 2018

The effect of gamma irradiation under various packaging atmospheres on chemical constituents and antibacterial properties of turmeric rhizome volatile oil has been studied. The turmeric rhizome powder was packaged under different atmospheres (air, N₂, and vacuum) by high‐barrier multilayered film (Pet/EVOH–PA/LDPE) and they were gamma irradiated at dose of 5, 10, and 15 kGy. According to the results, gamma irradiation under different atmospheres of packaging did not change antibacterial properties of the volatile oil. However, oxygenated sesquiterpenes which are the major chemical constituent of the volatile oil increased by irradiation significantly by 6.45% (at 15 kGy under air packaging) (p < .05). Also, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) was more effective to improve these active compounds, significantly (p < .05). Since gamma irradiation may cause chemical oxidation, isomerization, and hydroxylation of volatile oil's constituents, it concluded that these changes could be minimized under MAP in turmeric rhizome volatile oil, significantly.

Practical applications

Ionizing radiation as a cold‐pasteurization method has widespread and growing applications in decontamination of spice and condiments but, there are lack of information or contradictory results on the effects of irradiation on chemical constituents and physicochemical properties of them. Our results showed that gamma irradiation caused quantitative not qualitative changes on chemical constituents of turmeric's volatile oil. Irradiation did not have effect on antibacterial properties of turmeric volatile oils in all doses under different packaging atmospheres. The outcome of this research demonstrated irradiation resulted in improving oxygenated sesquiterpenes contents which are the major components of turmeric volatile oil. It should be noted that irradiation under modified atmosphere (N2 and vacuum) was more effective in improving these constituents, too. Statistically, the effect of N2 and vacuum was the same but practically vacuum packaging is recommended.
Effect of organic matter and pH on the resistance of Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Derby in scalding water from pig slaughter
Authors: Minor Fernandes Inagaki Jorge , Jagnow Sereno Mallu , Pegoraro Kadigia , Zanatta Waz Mykaella , Mendonça Soares Vanessa , Gonçalves Pereira Juliano , Bersot Luciano dos Santos
Published: August 2018

The thermal resistance of Salmonella Typhimurium and Derby was evaluated simulating the pig slaughter scalding process in water with different pH values and organic matter concentrations. In samples of scalding water tanks collected at 0, 2, and 4 hr during the slaughter, Salmonella serotypes were quantified at 0, 1, 3, and 5 min of heating at 62 °C. Variations of water with different pH levels and organic matter contents were also analyzed. A general reduction of 3.19 log CFU/mL in the scalding water and a D value of 1.65 min was observed. Salmonella was more sensitive to hot water in an alkaline pH, and the organic matter was not able to interfere with the survival of Salmonella. We conclude that the accumulation of organic matter in the scalding process was not relevant for the survival of Salmonella and that the water alkalinization was important in improving the elimination of this microorganism.

Practical applications

To know the behavior of Salmonella in different stages of pig slaughter is important for establishing parameters of process, limits, or actions in the control of the contamination program.

This study may contribute novel predictions about Salmonella elimination in the scalding stage and provide evidence about factors that can modify the kinetics of reduction, such as the accumulation of organic matter in the scalding tank during the slaughter of pigs and the different pH levels of the water used in this process. This article demonstrated that the addiction of calcium oxide to the scalding water may contribute to the control of Salmonella in the scalding process by reducing the destruction time.
A member of the ALOG gene family has a novel role in regulating nodulation in Lotus japonicus
Authors: Lei Yawen , Su Shihao , He Liang , Hu Xiaohe , Luo Da
Published: August 2018

Legumes can control the number of symbiotic nodules that form on their roots, thus balancing nitrogen assimilation and energy consumption. Two major pathways participate in nodulation: the Nod factor (NF) signaling pathway which involves recognition of rhizobial bacteria by root cells and promotion of nodulation, and the autoregulation of nodulation (AON) pathway which involves long‐distance negative feedback between roots and shoots. Although a handful of genes have a clear role in the maintenance of nodule number, additional unknown factors may also be involved in this process. Here, we identify a novel function for a Lotus japonicus ALOG (Arabidopsis LSH1 and Oryza G1) family member, LjALOG1, involved in positively regulating nodulation. LjALOG1 expression increased substantially after inoculation with rhizobia, with high levels of expression in whole nodule primordia and in the base of developing nodules. The ljalog1 mutants, which have an insertion of the LORE1 retroelement in LjALOG1, had significantly fewer nodules compared with wild type, along with increased expression of LjCLE‐RS1 (L. japonicus CLE Root Signal 1), which encodes a nodulation suppressor in the AON pathway. In summary, our findings identified a novel factor that participates in controlling nodulation, possibly by suppressing the AON pathway.
Self‐consistent absorption correction for quantifying very noisy X‐ray maps: group III nitride nanowires as an example
Authors: WANG X. , BAI J. , WALTHER T.
Published: August 2018

Energy‐dispersive X‐ray mapping in a scanning transmission electron microscope is a method to visualize the spatial distribution of chemical elements in a sample. Quantification of the signal intensities depends on proper background elimination and correction of the self‐absorption and fluorescence of X‐ray lines in the sample. The latter become particularly relevant for slightly thicker and rough samples, small take‐off angles and low‐energetic X‐ray lines, for which we have recently introduced a self‐consistent absorption correction based on effective k*‐factors selected automatically from curves simulated as function of a K/L line intensity ratio of one of the heavier elements in the sample for ranges of different compositions. This has been shown to work well for thick and for rough samples. Correcting the background intensity to sub‐pixel accuracy is necessary for reliable quantification of very noisy maps. In this study, we show how this self‐consistent absorption correction method can be applied to InGaN and AlGaN layers in GaN nanowires, the net maps of which can be so noisy the layers can hardly be seen by the eye (a few counts per pixel) and the background is below a single count in each spectrum channel. The result indicates that background estimation for the Ga L‐line intensity using fractional counts from an interpolation of maps from neighbouring X‐ray lines of elements that are not actually present in the specimen is critical for quantification. The nanowires studied were between 66 and 375 nm thick.

Lay Description

Energy‐dispersive X‐ray mapping in a scanning transmission electron microscope is a method to visualize the spatial distribution of chemical elements in a sample. Quantification of the signal intensities depends on proper background elimination and correction of the self‐absorption of X‐ray lines in the sample. Here we show that our previously developed method of self‐consistent effective absorption factors works well even with extremely noise elemental maps of a few net counts only where the human eye can hardly discern any pattern and the background signal is typically less than a single count in each spectrum channel. Correcting the background intensity to sub‐pixel accuracy is then necessary for reliable quantification.
Hapln4/Bral2 is a selective regulator for formation and transmission of GABAergic synapses between Purkinje and deep cerebellar nuclei neurons
Authors: Edamatsu Midori , Miyano Rinako , Fujikawa Atsushi , Fujii Fuminari , Hori Tetsuya , Sakaba Takeshi , Oohashi Toshitaka
Published: August 2018

Purkinje cells (PCs) convey the sole output of the cerebellar cortex to the deep cerebellar nuclei (DCN). DCN neurons are enwrapped in densely organized extracellular matrix structures, known as perineuronal nets (PNNs). PNNs are typically found around fast‐spiking GABAergic interneurons expressing parvalbumin but interestingly also exist surrounding other neurons, such as the neurons in the DCN and medial nucleus of the trapezoid body, which are the post‐synaptic neurons of large axo‐somatic synapses adapted for fast signaling. This characteristic localization prompted the hypothesis that PNNs might play a role in the maintenance and formation of large fast‐signaling synapses. To elucidate the role of the PNN at these synapses, we investigated the electrophysiological and morphological properties of DCN synapses in hyaluronan and proteoglycan binding link protein 4 (Hapln4/Bral2) knockout (KO) mice around postnatal day (P)14. Hapln4/Bral2 is important for PNN structure, as it stabilizes the interaction between hyaluronan and proteoglycan. Here, using immunohistochemistry we show that Hapln4/Bral2 localized closely with GABAergic terminals. In DCN neurons of Hapln4/Bral2 KO mice, inhibitory synaptic strengths were reduced as compared to those in wild‐type mice, whereas the properties of excitatory synapses were unaffected. The reduced IPSC amplitudes were mainly because of reduced numbers of releasable vesicles. Moreover, Hapln4/Bral2 deficiency reduced the number of PC GABAergic terminals in the DCN. These results demonstrate that Hapln4/Bral2 is a PNN component that selectively contributes to formation and transmission of PC‐DCN synapses in the cerebellum.

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High salt loading increases brain derived neurotrophic factor in supraoptic vasopressin neurones
Authors: Balapattabi Kirthikaa , Little Joel T. , Farmer George E. , Cunningham J. Thomas
Published: August 2018

High salt loading (SL) is associated with inappropriate arginine vasopressin (AVP) release and increased mean arterial pressure. Previous work has shown that chronic high salt intake impairs baroreceptor inhibition of rat AVP neurones through brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) dependent activation of tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB) and down‐regulation of K+/Cl− co‐transporter KCC2. This mechanism diminishes the GABAA inhibition of AVP neurones in the supraoptic nucleus (SON) by increasing intracellular chloride. However, the source of BDNF leading to this ionic plasticity is unknown. In the present study, we used adeno‐associated viral vectors with short hairpin RNA against BDNF to test whether SON is the source of BDNF contributing to increased AVP release and elevated mean arterial pressure in high salt loaded rats. Virally mediated BDNF knockdown (shBDNF) in the SON of salt loaded rats significantly blocked the increases in BDNF mRNA and AVP heterogeneous RNA expression. The observed increase in the activation of TrkB receptor during salt loading is consistent with previous studies. Western blot analysis of SON punches revealed that tyrosine phosphorylation of TrkB (pTrkBY515) was significantly decreased in salt shBDNF rats compared to the salt scrambled (SCR) rats. Injections of shBDNF in the SON also significantly prevented the increase in plasma AVP concentration associated with salt loading. However, the salt loading induced increase in mean arterial pressure was not decreased with BDNF knockdown in the SON. Average daily fluid intake and urine output were significantly elevated in both salt SCR and salt shBDNF rats compared to the euhydrated controls. Daily average urine sodium concentration was significantly higher in shBDNF injected salt rats than the other groups. These findings indicate that BDNF produced in the SON contributes to the increased AVP secretion during high salt loading but not with respect to the subsequent increase in mean arterial pressure.
Photoperiod and thyroid hormone regulate expression of l‐dopachrome tautomerase (Dct), a melanocyte stem‐cell marker, in tanycytes of the ovine hypothalamus
Authors: Dardente Hugues , Lomet Didier
Published: August 2018

The pars tuberalis (PT) of the pituitary is central to the control of seasonal breeding. In mammals, the PT translates the photoperiodic message carried by melatonin into an endocrine thyroid‐stimulating hormone output, which controls local thyroid hormone (TH) signalling in tanycytes of the neighbouring hypothalamus. In the present study, we identify l‐dopachrome tautomerase (Dct) as a novel marker of ovine tanycytes and show that Dct displays marked seasonal variations in expression, with higher levels during spring and summer. This seasonal profile is photoperiod‐dependent because an acute exposure to long days induces Dct expression. In addition, we find that TH also modulates Dct expression. DCT functions as an enzyme in the melanin synthesis pathway within skin melanocytes, whereas expression in other tissues is comparatively low. We demonstrate that both Tyr and Tyrp1, which are enzymes that intervene upstream and downstream of Dct in the melanin synthesis pathway, respectively, are expressed at very low levels in the ovine hypothalamus. This suggests that Dct in tanycytes may not be involved in melanin synthesis. We speculate that DCT function is linked to its protective role towards oxidative stress and/or its function in the control of neural progenitor cell proliferation.
Skin care and rejuvenation by cosmeceutical facial mask
Authors: Nilforoushzadeh Mohammad Ali , Amirkhani Mohammad Amir , Zarrintaj Payam , Salehi Moghaddam Abolfazl , Mehrabi Tina , Alavi Shiva , Mollapour Sisakht Mahsa
Published: August 2018

Skin health is an important aspect of aesthetics. Dermatologists and scientists try to develop novel methods and materials to fulfill this aim. Facial cosmetics keep skin moist and remove sebum from the skin to maintain proper skin health. The use of suitable cosmetics according to the facial skin type results in healthy skin. Facial masks are the most prevalent cosmetic products utilized for skin rejuvenation. Facial masks are divided into four groups: (a) sheet masks; (b) peel‐off masks; (c) rinse‐off masks; and (d) hydrogels. Each of these has some advantages for specific skin types based on the ingredients used. The following article presents the available information about the facial mask. Also, we have focused on the facial masks available in the market. Despite several developments in this field, extensive research is required for performing successful and precise clinical trials in the future. Further improvements would enable the researchers to develop new products in this field. In this review, we present the most recent breakthroughs in the field of skin care and rejuvenation by cosmeceutical facial mask. This information is valuable to get the picture of the latest trends and also helpful for clinicians and related manufacturing companies.
The role of systemic treatments for skin lightening
Authors: Juhasz Margit L. W. , Levin Melissa K.
Published: August 2018

Background

Pigmentation of the skin occurs as a result of increased melanin production or deposition due to various reasons including age, hormonal imbalances, endocrine disease, inflammation, and/or exposure to damaging radiation, resulting in dermatologic conditions such as lentigines, melasma, or postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Although numerous topical therapies exist for skin lightening, they are limited by efficacy and pigmentation recurrence after treatment cessation. New research into systemic therapies for hyperpigmentation has been promising.

Objective

To summarize the current literature for systemic skin lightening therapies.

Methods

A review of the literature surrounding systemic skin lightening therapies was completed using PubMed (US National Library of Medicine).

Results

Multiple systemic therapies for skin lightening exist including oral carotenoids, glutathione, melatonin, Polypodium leucotomos hydrophilic extract, procyanidin, and tranexamic acid. Preliminary data for the treatment of hyperpigmentation are promising, and currently, these oral treatments appear safe. It is not suggested to use intravenous glutathione for skin lightening due to the increased risk of adverse events.

Conclusion

With the patient population seeking effective systemic treatments for skin pigmentation, it is important for dermatologists to understand the properties, the efficacy, and the adverse events profile of each compound, thus ensuring proper use by patients, and that patients are appropriately counseled regarding treatment expectation and safety.
Family perception of and experience with family presence during cardiopulmonary resuscitation: An integrative review
Authors: Toronto Coleen E. , LaRocco Susan A.
Published: August 2018

Objective

The objective was to consider family presence during resuscitation (FPDR) from the perspective of the family member.

Background

FPDR has been a topic of interest internationally since the first report of this practice more than 25 years ago. Worldwide, many studies have provided insight into the perspective of healthcare professionals (HCPs); however, there is limited research on the perspective and experiences of family members.

Design

An integrative review was conducted. An electronic database search was conducted for the years from 1994–2017.

Methods

The Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PyschINFO, Academic Search, SocINDEX, PubMed, ProQuest databases and Google Scholar were searched. Search terms were family perceptions, family presence and resuscitation.

Results

Twelve reviews met inclusion criteria. Findings suggest that family members view family presence as a fundamental right. Family members involved in a FPDR experience reported that their presence benefitted the patient and healthcare team. In an international sample of studies, family presence overall was viewed positively by family members and they voiced wanting to be given an option to be present during a loved one's resuscitation.

Conclusions

Findings support that family members’ desire for FPDR; however, the literature reflects that HCPs do not always embrace the practice of FPDR. Stronger educational preparation of nurses and other HCPs related to FPDR is warranted. Policy initiatives include the formulation of policies that allow family presence during resuscitation of a family member.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings are relevant for a clinical practice that promotes a more family‐centred approach to allowing FPDR. Creating policy and providing FPDR education for HCPs based on evidence provide more consistency in clinical practice and help to eliminate the moral distress experienced by clinical nurses forced to make difficult decisions during a stressful event.
Have youSCAND MMe Please?A framework to prevent harm during acute hospitalisation of older persons: A retrospective audit
Authors: Redley Bernice , Baker Tim
Published: August 2018

Aims and objectives

To test the mnemonicHave youSCAND MMe Please?as a framework to audit nursing care to prevent harms common to older inpatients.

Background

It is not known if acute hospital care comprehensively addresses eight interrelated factors that contribute to preventable harms common in older hospitalised patients.

Design

Retrospective audit of medical records.

Methods

A random selection of 400 medical records of inpatients over 65 years of age with an unplanned admission of longer than 72 hr in acute medical wards at four hospitals in Victoria, Australia, during 2011–12, was examined for frequency of documented evidence of assessments, interventions or new problems related to eight factors contributing to common preventable harms during hospitalisation.

Results

Assessments of skin integrity (94%–97%), mobility (95%–98%) and pain (93%–97%) were most often documented. Gaps in assessment of continence (4%–31%), nutrition (9%–49%), cognition (delirium, depression and dementia) (10%–24%) were most common. No patient record had evidence of all eight factors being assessed. Almost 80% of records had interventions documented for one or more factors that contribute to preventable harms. In almost 20% of patient records, a new preventable harm was documented during hospitalisation.

Conclusions

The mnemonicHave youSCAND MMe Please?brings together eight factors known to contribute to preventable harms common in older hospitalised patients. This framework was useful to identify gaps in assessment and interventions for factors that contribute to preventable harms during acute hospital care. Future research should test if the mnemonic can assist nurses with comprehensive harm prevention during acute hospitalisation.

Relevance to clinical practice

The mnemonicHave youSCAND MMe Please?represents eight factors that contribute to preventable harms common in older hospitalised patients. This framework provides a model for harm prevention to assist nurses to implement comprehensive harm prevention to improve quality of care and safety for older hospitalised patients.
Nurses’ perceptions of the root causes of community‐acquired pressure ulcers: Application of the Model for Examining Safety and Quality Concerns in Home Healthcare
Authors: McGraw Caroline A.
Published: August 2018

Aims and objectives

To explore how the context of care influences the development of community‐acquired pressure ulcers from the perspective of nurses working in home healthcare settings, to identify and categorise the factors perceived as contributing to the development of these ulcers using the Model for Examining Safety and Quality Concerns in Home Healthcare, and to explore how these risks are managed in practice.

Background

Pressure ulcer reduction is a priority in both hospital and community settings. Evidence suggests the factors affecting safety and performance in community settings are not the same as in hospital. However, research pertaining to pressure ulcer risk management has predominantly been undertaken in hospital settings.

Design

The study was framed by a qualitative exploratory design.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 19 registered nurses recruited from an independent regional tissue viability network and five community nursing provider organisations in London.

Results

The experiences and perceptions of participants mapped onto the components of the Model for Examining Safety and Quality Concerns in Home HealthCare: patient characteristics, provider characteristics, nature of home healthcare tasks, social and community environment, medical devices and new technology, physical environment, and external environment. Four strategies to address identified risks were established: behavioural interventions, technical interventions, safeguarding interventions and initiatives to promote better integration between health, local authorities and families.

Conclusion

Understanding the complex interplay between people and other elements of the healthcare system is critical to the prevention, management and investigation of pressure ulcers. This study has illuminated these elements from the perspective of nurses working in community settings.

Relevance to clinical practice

Further consideration should be given to the importance of place when both developing risk management strategies for pressure ulcer prevention and learning the lessons from failure.
What does the nurse practitioner mean to you? A patient‐oriented qualitative study in oncological/palliative care
Authors: van Dusseldorp Loes , Groot Marieke , Adriaansen Marian , van Vught Anneke , Vissers Kris , Peters Jeroen
Published: August 2018

Aims and objectives

To explore what meaning patients associate with their experiences with a nurse practitioner (NP) in oncological or palliative care.

Background

Care provided by NPs results in high patient satisfaction, mostly related to the assurance of continuity of care, and to receiving information and advice on coping with the disease. Research shows that health care provided by NPs equals the quality of care provided by physicians. Patients may be even more satisfied with care provided by NPs. Because patients’ views have only been examined quantitatively, underlying experiences and meanings remain unclear.

Design

A qualitative study from a phenomenological perspective.

Methods

In 2017, seventeen outpatients aged 45–79 years, receiving oncological or palliative care, were interviewed in depth. Data were analysed by Colaizzi's seven‐step method and by the Metaphor Identification Procedure.

Results

Six fundamental themes emerged: the NP as a human (1) and as a professional (2), the NP providing care (3) and cure (4), NPs organising patient care (5) and the impact on patient's well‐being (6). MIP analysis revealed six metaphors: NP means trust; is a travel aid; is a combat unit; is a chain; is a signpost; and is a technician.

Conclusions

NPs mean a lot to patients. NPs are valued as reliable, helpful and empathic. Patients feel empowered, at peace and in control as a result of the support, guidance and attention to them as a person as well as to aspects of the disease. Providing expert, integrated care makes patients feel safe and embraced in the NP's expertise.

Relevance to clinical practice

This qualitative insight into patients’ experiences will contribute to the body of knowledge on patients’ perceptions of the treatment and support provided by NPs. It adds to the further development of the NPs’ profession and education.