bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Localization, fate and interactions of Emilin‐1 in human skin
Authors: Fitoussi R. , Beauchef G. , Guéré C. , André N. , Vié K.
Published: March 2019

Abstracts

Objective

Emilin‐1 is a versatile protein abundant in tissues where resilience and elastic recoil are prominent and interacting with components of the extracellular matrix. Still, little is known about Emilin‐1 in the skin. Therefore, we investigated Emilin‐1 in the skin, its localization, its fate upon ageing, its interactions with other proteins and the effect of its knockdown.

Methods

Skin explants from young or old Caucasian women, immunofluorescently labelled by anti‐Emilin‐1, anti‐Fibrillin‐1 and anti‐Elastin antibodies, were analysed using confocal microscopy. Skin explants subjected to UV‐induced skin ageing were also analysed. Colocalization of Emilin‐1 with Collagen IV, Fibrillin‐1 and Elastin was studied by multiphoton microscopy and co‐immunoprecipitation. Finally, the effect of Emilin‐1 extinction was studied by producing small interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown fibroblasts and by analysing the outcome on selected genes.

Results

In skin sections from young donors, Emilin‐1 localizes similarly to Elastin and Fibrillin‐1. In the papillary dermis, it shows clear and ramified structures, perpendicular to the dermo‐epidermal junction that are reminiscent of the oxytalan fibres. In the reticular dermis, Emilin‐1 signal appears identical to that of the elastic fibres network. Upon intrinsic or UV‐induced ageing, the signal associated with Emilin‐1 is drastically reduced and disorganized. Multiphoton microscopy study shows that, as expected, Emilin‐1 colocalizes with Elastin. It also colocalizes with Collagen IV in the basement membrane and within dermal fibroblasts. Interaction of Emilin‐1 with Elastin and Collagen IV was also found by co‐immunoprecipitation. It also reveals interaction with Laminin‐5. Finally, siRNA‐mediated knockdown of EMILIN‐1 show little effect on the expression level of the 61 genes we studied. The most striking change is a downregulation of fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 that show a decrease similar to that of EMILIN‐1 itself and after 8 days a downregulation of COL6A1.

Conclusion

In skin, Emilin‐1 locates in the dermis, up to the basement membrane, interacting with components of the extracellular matrix but also with the anchoring complex. These interactions are important for cell adhesion, migration, proliferation and would suggest that Emilin‐1 might be important for maintaining the 3D structure of the extracellular matrix.
Early weight loss in adolescents following bariatric surgery predicts weight loss at 12 and 24 months
Authors: Chu Lisa , Howell Brooke , Steinberg Alissa , Bar‐Dayan Alisa , Toulany Alene , Langer Jacob C. , Hamilton Jill K.
Published: March 2019

Background

Growing evidence supports the efficacy of paediatric bariatric surgery. However, there is a paucity of data examining adolescent outcomes post surgery. Among adults, studies have shown that early weight loss is associated with long‐term weight loss. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate the association between early weight loss at 3 months with longer‐term weight loss at 12 and 24 months in adolescents post surgery. We hypothesized that patients who have greater weight loss within the first 3 months will have greater weight loss at 12 and 24 months post surgery.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of bariatric surgery patients (n = 28) was conducted. Anthropometric measurements at baseline and 3, 12, and 24 months were analysed.

Results

Percent of excess weight loss (%EWL) at 3, 12, and 24 months were 33.6 ± 11.3%, 55.0 ± 20.5%, and 55.1 ± 27.1%, respectively. %EWL at 3 months was positively associated with %EWL at 12 and 24 months (P < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic curve results identified a cut‐off of greater than or equal to 30%EWL at 3 months predicted successful weight loss, defined as greater than or equal to 50%EWL at 12 and 24 months.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that majority of weight loss among adolescents occurs within the first postoperative year. Greater %EWL by 3 months post surgery predicts successful and sustained weight loss over time.
Hydrocarbons catalysed by TmCYP4G122 and TmCYP4G123 in Tenebrio molitor modulate the olfactory response of the parasitoid Scleroderma guani
Authors: Wang S. Y. , Hackney Price J. , Zhang D.
Published: March 2019

Hydrocarbons (HCs) present on the epicuticle of terrestrial insects are not only used to reduce water loss but are also used as chemical signals. The cytochrome p450 CYP4G gene is essential for HC biosynthesis in some insects. However, its function in Tenebrio molitor is unknown. Moreover, it is not yet known whether CYP4G of a host can modulate the searching behaviours of its parasitoid. Here, we explore the function of the TmCYP4G122 and CYP4G123 genes in T. molitor. The TmCYP4G122 and CYP4G123 transcripts could be detected in all developmental stages. Their expression was higher in the fat body and abdominal cuticle than in the gut. Their transcript levels in mature larvae under desiccation stress [relative humidity (RH) < 5%] was significantly higher than that in the control (RH = 70%). Injection of dsCYP4G122 and dsCYP4G123 caused a reduction in HC biosynthesis and was associated with increased susceptibility to desiccation. Individuals of the parasitoid Scleroderma guani that emerged from mealworm pupae showed host preference for normal pupae whereas S. guani that emerged from pupae lacking CYP4G122 or/and CYP4G123 lost this searching preference. The current results confirm that CYP4G122 and CYP4G123 regulate the biosynthesis of HCs and modulate the olfactory response of its parasitoid S. guani.
Influenza A virus shedding reduction observed at 12 weeks post‐vaccination when newborn pigs are administered live‐attenuated influenza virus vaccine
Authors: Kaiser Troy J. , Smiley Rex A. , Fergen Brian , Eichmeyer Marc , Genzow Marika
Published: March 2019

Background

Influenza A virus in swine (IAV‐S) causes an acute respiratory disease of swine which results in great economic losses. A bivalent H1N1 and H3N2, NS1‐truncated live‐attenuated IAV‐S vaccine (LAIV, Ingelvac Provenza™) has recently become available.

Objective

Reduction of shedding during an outbreak in the nursery or finisher is an important parameter from an epidemiological control strategy; therefore, a laboratory efficacy study was conducted to evaluate nasal virus shedding when vaccinated pigs were challenged with either heterologous H1N2 or H3N2 strains 12 weeks post‐vaccination.

Methods

Between 1 and 5 days of age, pigs born to IAV‐S seronegative dams were intranasally administered 1 mL of vaccine or saline. At 30 days post‐vaccination, pigs were weaned and randomized into two different challenge groups consisting of vaccinated pigs and control pigs commingled within pens for the two challenge groups. At 85 days post‐vaccination, pigs in the first group were challenged with A/Swine/North Carolina/001169/2006 H1N2 challenge strain, and the second group was challenged with A/Swine/Nebraska/97901‐10/2008 H3N2. Nasal swabs were collected daily for five days and tested by virus isolation.

Results and conclusion

This study showed significant reduction in nasal virus shedding with regard to both frequency and duration. A 1 mL intranasal dose of Ingelvac Provenza™ given as early as 1 day of age showed protection for at least 12 weeks later as evidenced by the reduction of shedding live, viable virus after challenge with either a heterologous H1N2 strain or a heterologous H3N2 strain.
Study protocol: A randomized controlled trial assessing the avoidance of endotracheal suction in cardiac surgical patients ventilated for ≤ 12 hr
Authors: Gilder Eileen , Parke Rachael L. , McGuinness Shay , Jull Andrew
Published: March 2019

Aims

To assess the safety and efficacy of avoiding endotracheal suction in postoperative cardiac surgical patients mechanically ventilated for ≤ 12 hr.

Design

A prospective, single centre, single blind, non‐inferiority, randomized controlled trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of avoiding suction in uncomplicated, postoperative, adult cardiac surgical patients mechanically ventilated for ≤ 12 hr.

Methods

Randomization will be performed on return to intensive care (ICU) with allocation to either usual postoperative care including suction or to usual care with no suction (intervention arm). The primary outcome is the ratio of partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) to fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) (P/F) 6 hr after extubation. Pain assessments will be performed before, during and after endotracheal suction (ETS) and the patient experience will be investigated with a brief interview the following day. Ethics approval was received in October 2015.

Discussion

Endotracheal suction is performed as part of airway management but has potential complications and there is little robust evidence to guide practice. This study will add to the evidence base about the need and benefit of endotracheal suction in this patient cohort.

Impact

As there is currently no published evidence about the safety of avoiding endotracheal suction. This study will provide the first evidence about avoidance of endotracheal suction in patients ventilated for less than 1 day. If non‐inferior, the results have the capacity to change nursing practice by avoiding a potentially unnecessary procedure, it will build on the body of knowledge about the patient experience.
Effects of fleas on nest success of Arctic barnacle geese: experimentally testing the mechanism
Authors: de Jong Margje E. , Wetherbee Ross , Loonen Maarten J. J. E.
Published: March 2019

Parasites have detrimental effects on their hosts’ fitness. Therefore, behavioural adaptations have evolved to avoid parasites or, when an individual is already in contact with a parasite, prevent or minimize infections. Such anti‐parasite behaviours can be very effective, but can also be costly for the host. Specifically, ectoparasites can elicit strong host anti‐parasite behaviours and interactions between fleas (Siphonaptera) and their hosts are one of the best studied. In altricial bird species, nest fleas can negatively affect both parent and offspring fitness components. However, knowledge on the effects of fleas on precocial bird species is scarce. Research on geese in the Canadian Arctic indicated that fleas have a negative impact on reproductive success. One possible hypothesis is that fleas may affect female incubation behaviour. Breeding females with many fleas in their nest may increase the frequency and/or duration of incubation breaks and could even totally desert their nest. The aim of our study was to 1) determine if a similar negative relationship existed between flea abundance and reproductive success in our study colony of Arctic breeding barnacle geeseBranta leucopsisand 2) experimentally quantify if such effects could be explained by a negative effect of nest fleas on female behaviour. We compared host anti‐parasite and incubation behaviour between experimentally flea‐reduced and control nests using wildlife cameras and temperature loggers. We found that flea abundance was negatively associated with hatching success. We found little experimental support, however, for changes in behaviour of the breeding female as a possible mechanism to explain this effect.
Strategic Purity and Efficiency in the Motor Carrier Industry: A Multiyear Panel Investigation
Authors: Muir William A. , Miller Jason W. , Griffis Stanley E. , Bolumole Yemisi A. , Schwieterman Matthew A.
Published: March 2019

Two questions facing motor carrier managers are (1) whether carriers should specialize in providing full truckload (TL) or less‐than‐truckload (LTL) services vis‐à‐vis offering mix of both and (2) whether this decision is contingent on carrier size. Yet, the literature provides little guidance because research to date has offered contradictory theoretical predictions and inconsistent empirical findings. Drawing on the theory of strategic purity and information processing theory, we explain why service specialization is likely to increase carriers' technical efficiency and why size will have a more pronounced effect on technical efficiency for carriers specializing inLTLservices versusTLservices. To test our theory, we assemble a panel data set from archival government sources regarding general freight motor carriers' provision ofLTLandTLservices. We measure carriers' technical efficiency using data envelopment analysis and test our hypotheses by fitting a series of panel data mixed‐effects models. Our results indicate that carriers are most technically efficient when they specialize in one service type. We also find that size positively affects technical efficiency but only for carriers specializing inLTLservices; no returns to scale with regard to technical efficiency exist for carriers specializing inTLservices.
A novel family with axonal Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease caused by a mutation in the EGR2 gene
Authors: Tozza Stefano , Magri Stefania , Pennisi Elena Maria , Schirinzi Erika , Pisciotta Chiara , Balistreri Francesca , Severi Daniele , Ricci Giulia , Siciliano Gabriele , Taroni Franco , Santoro Lucio , Manganelli Fiore
Published: March 2019

EGR2 (Early Growth Response 2) is one of the most important transcription factors involved in myelination in the peripheral nervous system. EGR2 mutations typically cause different forms of demyelinating neuropathy, that is, Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth type 1D (CMT1D), Dejerine‐Sottas Syndrome (DSS), and Congenital Hypomyelinating Neuropathy (CHN). However, the EGR2 gene has been recently associated with an axonal phenotype (CMT2) in a large CMT family. Here, we report another CMT family exhibiting an axonal phenotype associated with a missense change (c.1235A>G, p.E412G) in the EGR2 gene. Neurological evaluation of five affected members of the family showed a classical CMT phenotype including distal muscle atrophy and weakness, absence of deep tendon reflexes, pes cavus, and scoliosis. Electrophysiological examination was consistent with a motor‐sensory axonal neuropathy. Sural nerve biopsy performed in one patient showed a loss of myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers without de‐remyelinating signs and onion bulbs. This study confirms the phenotypical heterogeneity of EGR2‐related neuropathy, indicating a role for EGR2 in primary axonal degeneration.
Eutopic endometrium from patients with endometriosis modulates the expression of CD36 and SIRP‐α in peritoneal macrophages
Authors: Xie Qi , He Hua , Wu Ya‐Hong , Zou Lu‐Jie , She Xiao‐Ling , Xia Xiao‐Meng , Wu Xian‐Qing
Published: March 2019

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the in vitro alterations of the expression of signal regulatory protein‐α (SIRP‐α) and CD36 in macrophages in the endometriosis condition.

Methods

The expression of SIRP‐α and CD36 was measured in peritoneal macrophages and peripheral blood mononuclear cells of endometriosis patients and control participants. The expressions of SIRP‐α and CD36 were measured in human acute monocytic leukemia (THP‐1) cell‐derived macrophages that were treated with interleukin‐6 (IL‐6)‐induced conditioned medium, eutopic versus normal endometrial homogenate, or lipopolysaccharide in the presence or absence of nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐κB) or transforming growth factor (TGF‐β) inhibitors, respectively.

Results

Peritoneal macrophages that were isolated from women with endometriosis exhibited an enhanced expression of SIRP‐α and a decreased expression of CD36 compared to control participants. Women with endometriosis had significantly higher levels of SIRP‐α and CD36 in peripheral circulating mononuclear cells than in control participants. SIRP‐α expression was significantly increased, whereas the CD36 expression was decreased in THP‐1 cell‐derived macrophages after treatment with eutopic endometrial homogenate. Intervention with IL‐6‐induced conditioned medium resulted in the downregulation of SIRP‐α but the upregulation of CD36 in THP‐1 cells. Incubation with the NF‐κBp50 inhibitor decreased the expression of CD36 and SIRP‐α in macrophages that were treated with normal endometrial homogenate, whereas the TGF‐β inhibitor enhanced the CD36 expression of THP‐1 cell‐derived macrophages treated with eutopic endometrial homogenate.

Conclusion

The eutopic endometrium could reduce the phagocytic ability of peritoneal macrophages in women with endometriosis through the modulation of SIRP‐α and CD36 expression. Inhibition of the TGF‐β signal pathway may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of endometriosis.
Radiotherapy for isolated recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer: A single institutional experience
Authors: Komura Naoko , Mabuchi Seiji , Isohashi Fumiaki , Yokoi Eriko , Shimura Kotaro , Matsumoto Yuri , Kodama Michiko , Tomimatsu Takuji , Ogawa Kazuhiko , Kimura Tadashi
Published: March 2019

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of external beam radiotherapy (RT) for isolated recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC).

Methods

Twenty‐four isolated recurrent EOC patients treated with RT at Osaka University Hospital between January 2000 and January 2017 were included in the current study. Data regarding the primary or recurrent diseases, follow‐up findings, and efficacy or toxicities of RT were collected and retrospectively analyzed. Survival rates were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using the log‐rank test.

Results

Their median age was 59 years. Most patients had International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage III‐IV diseases at the initial diagnosis. Histologically, serous adenocarcinoma was predominant, followed by clear cell adenocarcinoma. All patients had received at least one regimen of platinum‐based chemotherapy; 8 were platinum‐sensitive relapse and the others were platinum‐resistant. Lymph nodes were the most common sites of recurrence, and the median tumor size was 25.5 mm. The median total dose of RT administered was 54 Gy, with a median daily dose of 2 Gy. RT was well‐tolerated, and no patients experienced Grade 3/4 toxicities. The in‐field overall response rate was 58.3% (14/24), the median regression rate was −40.2% (range: −100 to 0) and the median survival period after RT was 17 months. The 1‐year survival and local progression‐free survival rates after RT were 66.7% and 45.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

RT showed significant antitumor effect against isolated recurrent EOC without causing severe toxicities. Prospective studies with sufficient statistical power are warranted to further evaluate the role of RT in this patient population.
Cranial shape predicts arboreal activity of Sigmodontinae rodents
Authors: Camargo N. F. , Machado L. F. , Mendonça A. F. , Vieira E. M.
Published: March 2019

Brain enlargement is an adaptation in animals that use the space in three dimensions and need to integrate information of complex environments. As consequence, this adaptation can result in differences in skull shape among species with different types of locomotion and level of arboreality. We directly tested for the relation between the cranial shape and arboreality (based on field data) of 11 Sigmodontinae rodent species from a Neotropical savanna (Cerrado). For that, we used geometric morphometrics considering both dorsal and lateral views of the cranium. We also accounted for any possible allometric effects (i.e. the relationship between size and shape) and evolutionary constraints (i.e. phylogenetic signal) on the cranial shape. The dorsal view presented strong allometric effects but no phylogenetic signal. On the other hand, the lateral view showed a weak allometric effect and a significant phylogenetic signal. After controlling for size and evolutionary constraints, we found significant relationships between rodent arboreality and cranial shape for both lateral (r2 = 0.74) and dorsal cranium views (r2 = 0.40). Patterns for both views showed that arboreal rodents present more expanded crania, suggesting larger brains. The dorsal view showed a general cranial expansion in arboreal rodents, whereas the lateral view showed a more rounded and posteriorly expanded cranium. This later suggests a larger cerebellum, an important brain portion responsible for orientation and sense of balance. Our study provides evidence that the cranial shape can be used as a proxy to infer arboreal activity of sigmodontine rodents. Moreover, the observed differences in cranial shape between arboreal and terrestrial species are probably related to brain enlargement in the former driven by the need to cope with a three‐dimensional environment.
Diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Macias Rocio I. R. , Kornek Miroslaw , Rodrigues Pedro M. , Paiva Nuno A. , Castro Rui E. , Urban Sabine , Pereira Stephen P. , Cadamuro Massimiliano , Rupp Christian , Loosen Sven H. , Luedde Tom , Banales Jesus M.
Published: March 2019

The high mortality rate of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is due, in part, to the lack of non‐invasive approaches able to accurately detect this silent tumour at early stages, when therapeutic options can be potentially curative or may at least increase the overall survival of patients. The fact that the majority of CCA tumours are not linked to any known aetiological factor highly compromises the monitoring of patients at risk for tumour development and also their early diagnosis. Combination of clinical/biochemical features, imaging techniques and analysis of non‐specific tumour biomarkers in serum are commonly used to help in the diagnosis of CCA, but tumour biopsy is usually required to confirm the diagnosis. Moreover, no prognostic biomarkers are currently used in the clinical setting, deserving more innovative research, and international validation and consensus. Important efforts have been made in the last few years to identify accurate non‐invasive biomarkers, by using innovative techniques and high‐throughput omics technologies. This review summarizes and discusses the advances in the investigation of novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in CCA and envisions the future directions in this field of research.
Ischaemia reperfusion injury in liver transplantation: Cellular and molecular mechanisms
Authors: Dar Wasim A. , Sullivan Elise , Bynon John S. , Eltzschig Holger , Ju Cynthia
Published: March 2019

Liver disease causing end organ failure is a growing cause of mortality. In most cases, the only therapy is liver transplantation. However, liver transplantation is a complex undertaking and its success is dependent on a number of factors. In particular, liver transplantation is subject to the risks of ischaemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI). Liver IRI has significant effects on the function of a liver after transplantation. The cellular and molecular mechanisms governing IRI in liver transplantation are numerous. They involve multiple cells types such as liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, neutrophils and platelets acting via an interconnected network of molecular pathways such as activation of toll‐like receptor signalling, alterations in micro‐RNA expression, production of ROS, regulation of autophagy and activation of hypoxia‐inducible factors. Interestingly, the cellular and molecular events in liver IRI can be correlated with clinical risk factors for IRI in liver transplantation such as donor organ steatosis, ischaemic times, donor age, and donor and recipient coagulopathy. Thus, understanding the relationship of the clinical risk factors for liver IRI to the cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern it is critical to higher levels of success after liver transplantation. This in turn will help in the discovery of therapeutics for IRI in liver transplantation – a process that will lead to improved outcomes for patients suffering from end‐stage liver disease.
Climate change, extinction, and Sky Island biogeography in a montane lizard
Authors: Wiens John J. , Camacho Agustín , Goldberg Aaron , Jezkova Tereza , Kaplan Matthew E. , Lambert Shea M. , Miller Elizabeth C. , Streicher Jeffrey W. , Walls Ramona L.
Published: March 2019

Around the world, many species are confined to “Sky Islands,” with different populations in isolated patches of montane habitat. How does this pattern arise? One scenario is that montane species were widespread in lowlands when climates were cooler, and were isolated by local extinction caused by warming conditions. This scenario implies that many montane species may be highly susceptible to anthropogenic warming. Here, we test this scenario in a montane lizard (Sceloporus jarrovii) from the Madrean Sky Islands of southeastern Arizona. We combined data from field surveys, climate, population genomics, and physiology. Overall, our results support the hypothesis that this species' current distribution is explained by local extinction caused by past climate change. However, our results for this species differ from simple expectations in several ways: (a) their absence at lower elevations is related to warm winter temperatures, not hot summer temperatures; (b) they appear to exclude a low‐elevation congener from higher elevations, not the converse; (c) they are apparently absent from many climatically suitable but low mountain ranges, seemingly “pushed off the top” by climates even warmer than those today; (d) despite the potential for dispersal among ranges during recent glacial periods (~18,000 years ago), populations in different ranges diverged ~4.5–0.5 million years ago and remained largely distinct; and (e) body temperatures are inversely related to climatic temperatures among sites. These results may have implications for many other Sky Island systems. More broadly, we suggest that Sky Island species may be relevant for predicting responses to future warming.
Thresholds for leaf damage due to dehydration: declines of hydraulic function, stomatal conductance and cellular integrity precede those for photochemistry
Authors: Trueba Santiago , Pan Ruihua , Scoffoni Christine , John Grace P. , Davis Stephen D. , Sack Lawren
Published: March 2019

Given increasing water deficits across numerous ecosystems world‐wide, it is urgent to understand the sequence of failure of leaf function during dehydration.

We assessed dehydration‐induced losses of rehydration capacity and maximum quantum yield of the photosystemII(Fv/Fm) in the leaves of 10 diverse angiosperm species, and tested when these occurred relative to turgor loss, declines of stomatal conductancegs, and hydraulic conductanceKleaf, including xylem and outside xylem pathways for the same study plants. We resolved the sequences of relative water content and leaf water potential Ψleafthresholds of functional impairment.

On average, losses of leaf rehydration capacity occurred at dehydration beyond 50% declines ofgs,Kleafand turgor loss point. Losses ofFv/Fmoccurred after much stronger dehydration and were not recovered with leaf rehydration. Across species, tissue dehydration thresholds were intercorrelated, suggesting trait co‐selection. Thresholds for each type of functional decline were much less variable across species in terms of relative water content than Ψleaf.

The stomatal and leaf hydraulic systems show early functional declines before cell integrity is lost. Substantial damage to the photochemical apparatus occurs at extreme dehydration, after complete stomatal closure, and seems to be irreversible.
AtINO80 and AtARP5 physically interact and play common as well as distinct roles in regulating plant growth and development
Authors: Kang Huijia , Zhang Chi , An Zengxuan , Shen Wen‐Hui , Zhu Yan
Published: March 2019

The proper modulation of chromatin structure is dependent on the activities of chromatin‐remodeling factors and their interplays. Here, we show that the Arabidopsis chromatin‐remodeler AtINO80 interacts with the actin‐related protein AtARP5 and can form a larger protein complex.

Genetic analysis demonstrated that AtARP5 acts in concert with AtINO80 during plant cellular proliferation and replication stress response. At the same time, AtARP5 is not required for AtINO80‐mediated control of flowering time and related transcriptional regulation, and their chromatin distribution patterns on regions of flowering‐repressor genes FLC/MAF4/MAF5 are also different.

An in vitro DNase I digestion assay revealed that the AtINO80N‐terminus can weakly bind DNA, an interaction that is significantly inhibited by H2A.Z/H2B addition. AtARP6, a specific subunit of SWR1‐C that mediates the H2A.Z exchange, was found to have a previously unexpected inhibitory role in the local chromatin enrichment of AtINO80. Further genetic analyses revealed the functional interplay between AtINO80 and AtARP6 and their critical roles in embryogenesis and post‐embryonic organ development, as well as the synergy of AtARP5 and AtARP6 in maintaining genomic stability.

Our findings provide insights into the common and distinct roles of AtINO80 and AtARP5 in diverse aspects of plant development.
The codon usage pattern of genes involved in ovarian cancer
Authors: Uddin Arif , Paul Nirmal , Chakraborty Supriyo
Published: March 2019

In this study, we analyzed the compositional dynamics and codon usage pattern of genes involved in ovarian cancer (OC) using a computational method. Mutations in specific genes are associated with OC, and some genes are risk factors for progression of OC, but no work has been reported yet on the codon usage pattern of genes involved in OC. Nucleotide composition analysis of OC‐related genes suggested that the overall GC content was higher than AT content; that is, the genes were GC rich. The improved effective number of codons indicated that the overall extent of codon usage bias of genes involved in OC was low. The codons AGC, CTG, ATC, ACC, GTG, and GCC were overrepresented, while the codons TCG, TTA, CTA, CCG, CAA, CGT, ATA, ACG, GTA, GTT, GCG, and GGT were underrepresented in the genes. Correspondence analysis suggested that the codon usage pattern was different in different genes. A highly significant correlation was observed between GC12 and GC3 (r = 0.587, P < 0.01) of genes, suggesting that directional mutation affected the three codon positions. Our report on the codon usage pattern of genes involved in OC includes a new perspective for elucidating the mechanisms of biased usage of synonymous codons, as well as providing useful clues for molecular genetic engineering.
Superimposition of maxillary digital models using the palatal rugae: Does ageing affect the reliability?
Authors: Garib Daniela , Miranda Felicia , Yatabe Marilia S. , Lauris José Roberto Pereira , Massaro Camila , McNamara James A. , Kim‐Berman Hera , Janson Guilherme , Behrents Rolf G. , Cevidanes Lucia H. S. , de Oliveira Ruellas Antonio Carlos
Published: March 2019

Structured Abstract

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability of 3‐dimensional maxillary dental changes using two methods of digital model superimposition.

Setting and Sample Population

The Department of Orthodontics of Bauru Dental School, University of São Paulo and University of Michigan Craniofacial Growth Center. Fifteen subjects with normal occlusion.

Material & Methods

The sample was composed of digital study models of 15 normal occlusion subjects taken at 13 (T1), 18 (T2) and 60 years of age (T3). Using the software SlicerCMF 3.1, superimposition (registration) was conducted using 9 landmarks placed on the incisive papilla, second and third palatal rugae and 10 mm distal to the third palatal rugae. Two registration methods were compared: landmarks (LA) and regions of interest (ROI). Three‐dimensional changes of landmarks on the buccal cusp tip of posterior teeth bilaterally and the incisal edge of the right central incisor were measured by three examiners. Intraclass correlation coefficients and Bland‐Altman method evaluated intra‐ and inter‐examiner agreements.

Results

Good or excellent intra‐examiner agreement was found for T1‐T2 and T2‐T3 measurements using both registration methods. Inter‐examiner agreements were good to excellent for T1‐T2 measurements and poor to fair for most T2‐T3 measurements. Mean T1‐T2 differences were less than 0.5 mm for most measurements.

Conclusion

Maxillary digital dental models of patients with normal occlusion superimposed on palatal rugae showed an adequate reliability for a 5‐year interval comparison using landmarks or regions of interest. Lower than acceptable reproducibility using both superimposition methods was found for a 40‐year interval comparison.
Detecting Anisotropy in Fingerprint Growth
Authors: Markert Karla , Krehl Karolin , Gottschlich Carsten , Huckemann Stephan
Published: March 2019

From infancy to adulthood, human growth is anisotropic, much more along the proximal–distal axis (height) than along the medial–lateral axis (width), particularly at extremities. Detecting and modelling the rate of anisotropy in fingerprint growth facilitate the use of children's fingerprints for long-term biometric identification. Using standard fingerprint scanners, anisotropic growth is highly overshadowed by the varying distortions created by each imprint, and it seems that this difficulty has hampered to date the development of suitable methods, detecting anisotropy, let alone designing models. We provide a tool chain to detect statistically anisotropy in planar shape and its preferred axis. For this we develop a new anisotropic growth model with a Procrustes-type algorithm and a new parametric and non-parametric neighbourhood hypothesis test, tunable to measurement accuracy. In application to fingerprint growth, we require only a standard fingerprint scanner and a minutiae matcher. Taking into account realistic distortions caused by pressing fingers on scanners, our simulations based on real data indicate that, for example, already in rather small samples (56 matches) we can significantly detect proximal–distal growth if it exceeds medial–lateral growth by only around 5%. Our method is well applicable to future data sets of child fingerprint time series. We provide an implementation of our algorithms and tests with matched minutiae pattern data.
Do Exchange Rate Shocks Have Asymmetric Effects on Reserve Accumulation? Evidence from Emerging Markets*
Authors: Chen Shiu‐Sheng , Lin Tzu‐Yu
Published: March 2019

It is generally argued that central banks in emerging market countries, motivated by a desire to defend export competitiveness, tend to intervene in foreign exchange markets to limit currency appreciations rather than depreciations. Using panel data from 13 emerging market countries for the period 1998:M1 to 2016:M12, we find that exchange rate shocks play an important role in determining the accumulation of international reserves. Moreover, we find evidence that central banks in emerging markets tend to follow a “leaning against the depreciation wind” policy, rather than the appreciation wind (i.e., we provide evidence of a “fear of depreciation”).
Making and Unmaking Cosmopolitans: An Experimental Test of the Mediating Role of Emotions in International Development Appeals*
Authors: Hudson David , Laehn N. Susan , Dasandi Niheer , vanHeerde‐Hudson Jennifer
Published: March 2019

Objective

In this article, we test whether emotions mediate the effect of international development appeals on cosmopolitanism and donation behavior.

Methods

We design and conduct a lab experiment to test the impact of representations of global poverty on participants’ cosmopolitan sentiments and their likelihood to donate to development charities. We use multiple mediation analysis to test the intervening role of six emotional responses—anger, guilt, solidarity, hope, repulsion, and pity—as causal pathways to our two outcomes of interest: cosmopolitanism and donations.

Results

Hope is the most consistent and powerful pathway through which appeals affect respondents’ sense of cosmopolitanism and willingness to donate. Negative imagery and text erode people's sense of hope, but drive donations, particularly via guilt.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest we should move away from a mono‐causal view of emotional responses to disaster and development imagery, and provide a cautionary tale for practitioners: using negative imagery can undermine the public's sense of hope and cosmopolitanism.
Phylogeny of the plant bug subfamily Mirinae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Cimicomorpha: Miridae) based on total evidence analysis
Authors: Kim Junggon , Jung Sunghoon
Published: March 2019

The first comprehensive phylogenetic analyses of the most diverse subfamily of plant bugs, Mirinae, is presented in this study, for 110 representative taxa based on total evidence analysis. A total of 85 morphological characters and 3898 bp of mitochondrial (16S, COI) and nuclear (18S, 28S) sequences were analysed for each partitioned and combined dataset based on parsimony, maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference. Major results obtained in this study include monophyly of the tribe Mecistoscelini. The largest tribe, Mirini, was recovered as polyphyletic, and Stenodemini was recovered as paraphyletic. The clade of Stenodemini + Mecistoscelini is the sister group of the remaining Mirinae. The monophyly of two complexes composed of superficially similar genera were tested; the Lygus complex was recovered as nonmonophyletic, and the Adelphocoris–Creontiades–Megacoelum complex was confirmed to be monophyletic. The generic relationships of the main clades within each tribe based on the phylogeny, as well as their supported morphological characters, are discussed.
Post‐Ebola psychosocial experiences and coping mechanisms among Ebola survivors: a systematic review
Authors: James P. B. , Wardle J. , Steel A. , Adams J.
Published: March 2019

Objective

A myriad of physical and psychosocial sequelae have been reported among Ebola survivors from previous Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreaks, including the most recent in West Africa. This review examines the various forms of psychological distress experienced by EVD survivors, family and community reactions to EVD survivors and EVD survivors’ coping mechanisms.

Methods

We conducted a literature search of original articles employing Medline (Ovid), PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, EBSCO host academic search complete, PsycINFO (EBSCO) and Embase databases.

Results

Our search identified 1890 articles of which 24 met our inclusion criteria. Various forms of psychological distress were prevalent among EVD survivors including depression, anxiety, anger, grief, guilt, flashbacks, sadness, worthlessness, substance addiction, suicidal tendencies and self‐stigmatisation. Family and community responses to EVD survivors ranged from acceptance to rejection, isolation, stigmatisation and discrimination. EVD survivors’ coping strategies included engagement with religious faith, EVD survivors associations and involvement in EVD prevention and control interventions.

Conclusion

Psychological distress, including that resulting from family and community stigma and discrimination, appears common among EVD survivors. Community‐based mental health and psychosocial interventions integrated within a broader package of care for EVD survivors that also recognises the physical health challenges are required. Well‐designed longitudinal studies can provide clear insights on the nature and trajectory of the psychosocial issues currently experienced by EVD survivors.
The Arabidopsis pentatricopeptide repeat protein LPE1 and its maize ortholog are required for translation of the chloroplast psbJ RNA
Authors: Williams‐Carrier Rosalind , Brewster Carolyn , Belcher Susan E. , Rojas Margarita , Chotewutmontri Prakitchai , Ljungdahl Sonja , Barkan Alice
Published: March 2019

The expression of chloroplast genes relies on a host of nucleus‐encoded proteins. Identification of such proteins and elucidation of their functions are ongoing challenges. We used ribosome profiling to revisit the function of the pentatricopeptide repeat protein LPE1, reported to stimulate translation of the chloroplast psbA mRNA in Arabidopsis. Mutation of the maize LPE1 ortholog causes a photosystem II (PSII) deficiency and a defect in translation of the chloroplast psbJ open reading frame (ORF) but has no effect on psbA expression. To reflect this function, we named the maize LPE1 ortholog Translation of psbJ 1 (TPJ1). Arabidopsis lpe1 mutants likewise exhibit a loss of psbJ translation, and have, in addition, a decrease in psbN translation. We detected a small decrease in ribosome occupancy on the psbA mRNA in Arabidopsis lpe1 mutants, but ribosome profiling analyses of other PSII mutants (hcf107 and hcf173) in conjunction with in vitro RNA binding data strongly suggest that this is a secondary effect of their PSII deficiency. We conclude that maize TPJ1 promotes PSII synthesis by activating translation of the psbJ ORF, that this function is conserved in Arabidopsis LPE1, and that an additional role for LPE1 in psbN translation contributes to the PSII deficiency in lpe1 mutants.
Survival of human cadaver skin on severe combined immune deficiency pigs: Proof of concept
Authors: Singer Adam J. , Tuggle Christopher , Ahrens Amanda , Sauer Mary , McClain Steve A. , Tredget Edward , Rosenberg Lior
Published: March 2019

Transplantation of human xenografts onto immunocompromised mice is a powerful research tool for studying wound healing. However, differences in healing between humans and mice and their small size limit this model. We determined whether human cadaver skin xenografts transplanted onto pigs with severe combined immune deficiency (SCID) would survive and not be rejected. Meshed (1:1.5), cryopreserved human cadaver skin was transplanted onto 10 partial thickness dermatome wounds in each of two normal domestic pigs and two SCID pigs. Autografts (n = 2/animal) from the four animals were used as controls. In normal pigs, all autografts were engrafted and healed with a minimal, if any, inflammation and scarring. All human xenografts were rejected by the normal pigs within 5–11 days and associated with an intense T‐cell inflammatory response. In contrast, both autografts and xenografts were engrafted and survived the 28‐day study in the SCID pigs with a minimal inflammation and no gross scarring.
Heat Transfer Analysis of Flash Evaporation With MEPCM
Authors: Guo Yang , Ma Hongbin , Fu Benwei , Ji Yulong , Su Fengmin , Wilson Corey
Published: March 2019

Several seawater desalination technologies have been developed and widely used during the last four decades. In the current investigation, a new approach to the seawater desalination process is presented, which utilizes microencapsulated phase change materials (MEPCMs) and thin film evaporation. In this process, the MEPCMs were placed into hot seawater. Then, the hot seawater and the MEPCMs containing the liquid phase change material (PCM) were ejected into a vacuum flash chamber. A thin liquid film of seawater was formed on the surface of the MEPCM, which subsequently vaporized. This evaporation significantly increased the evaporation heat transfer and enhanced the desalination efficiency. Film evaporation on MEPCM surfaces decreased their temperature by absorbing sensible heat. If their temperature was lower than the phase change temperature, the MEPCM would change phase from liquid to solid releasing the latent heat, resulting in further evaporation. The MEPCMs were then pumped back into the hot seawater, and the salt residue left on the MEPCMs could be readily dissolved. In this way, the desalination efficiency could be increased and corrosion reduced. A mathematical model was developed to determine the effects of MEPCM and thin film evaporation on desalination efficiency. An analytical solution using Lighthill's approach was obtained. Results showed that when MEPCMs with a radius of 100 µm and a water film of 50 µm were used, the evaporation rate and evaporative capacity were significantly increased.
Optimum Fin Parameters of Radial Heat Sinks Subjected to Natural Convection
Authors: Manna S. , Ghosh S. K. , Haldar S. C.
Published: March 2019

Free convection from an upward facing radial heat sink with fins at an equal angular gap attached to an isothermal base has been investigated numerically. The governing equations in primitive variables were changed to vorticity-vector potential formulation, and an in-house code was developed using finite difference technique. To close the computational domain, two pseudo boundaries were considered. Length, height, and number of fins strongly influence the rate of heat transfer while the fin thickness has a marginal role. As the fin length increases, the rate of heat transfer first increases and then remains almost unaffected. However, the active length of the fins depends on the strength of buoyancy. Heat transfer continuously increases with fin height but with diminishing effect. Adding more number of fins has two opposing effects. It provides more surface area for convection, but at the same time, the induced air is unable to reach the interior of the heat sink making the inner portion of the fins inoperative. As a result of these two opposing influences, heat transfer increases in the beginning and then decreases as more fins are added. This article suggests various fin parameters to achieve maximum cooling. In addition, one can estimate the rate of cooling to be achieved by any radial heat sink.
The endogenous retrovirus-derived long noncoding RNA TROJAN promotes triple-negative breast cancer progression via ZMYND8 degradation
Authors: Jin Xi , Xu Xiao-En , Jiang Yi-Zhou , Liu Yi-Rong , Sun Wei , Guo Ya-Jie , Ren Yi-Xing , Zuo Wen-Jia , Hu Xin , Huang Sheng-Lin , Shen Hong-Jie , Lan Fei , He Yun-Fei , Hu Guo-Hong , Di Gen-Hong , He Xiang-Huo , Li Da-Qiang , Liu Suling , Yu Ke-Da , Shao Zhi-Ming
Published: March 2019

HERV loci transcribed lncRNA TROJAN promotes TNBC progression through ZMYND8 degradation by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway.
Type III interferon signaling restricts enterovirus 71 infection of goblet cells
Authors: Good Charles , Wells Alexandra I. , Coyne Carolyn B.
Published: March 2019

Enterovirus 71, a cause of severe disease in children, infects goblet cells to cross the intestinal barrier.
No high Tibetan Plateau until the Neogene
Authors: Su T. , Farnsworth A. , Spicer R. A. , Huang J. , Wu F.-X. , Liu J. , Li S.-F. , Xing Y.-W. , Huang Y.-J. , Deng W.-Y.-D. , Tang H. , Xu C.-L. , Zhao F. , Srivastava G. , Valdes P. J. , Deng T. , Zhou Z.-K.
Published: March 2019

The youngest palm fossil record in Tibet suggests that there was no high Tibetan Plateau until the Neogene.
Recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor: effects on normal and leukemic myeloid cells
Authors: Souza LM , Boone TC , Gabrilove J , Lai PH , Zsebo KM , Murdock DC , Chazin VR , Bruszewski J , Lu H , Chen KK , Barendt J. , Platzer E. , Moore M. A. S. , Mertelsmann R. , Welte K.
Published: March 2019

Experiments were conducted to isolate and characterize the gene and gene product of a human hematopoietic colony-stimulating factor with pluripotent biological activities. This factor has the ability to induce differentiation of a murine myelomonocytic leukemia cell line WEHI-3B(D+) and cells from patients with newly diagnosed acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL). A complementary DNA copy of the gene encoding a pluripotent human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (hG-CSF) was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. The recombinant form of hG-CSF is capable of supporting neutrophil proliferation in a CFU-GM assay. In addition, recombinant hG-CSF can support early erythroid colonies and mixed colony formation. Competitive binding studies done with 125I-labeled hG-CSF and cell samples from two patients with newly diagnosed human leukemias as well as WEHI-3B(D+) cells showed that one of the human leukemias (ANLL, classified as M4) and the WEHI-3B(D+) cells have receptors for hG-CSF. Furthermore, the murine WEHI-3B(D+) cells and human leukemic cells classified as M2, M3, and M4 were induced by recombinant hG-CSF to undergo terminal differentiation to macrophages and granulocytes. The secreted form of the protein produced by the bladder carcinoma cell line 5637 was found to be O-glycosylated and to have a molecular weight of 19,600.
Delivery of therapeutics to the inner ear: The challenge of the blood-labyrinth barrier
Authors: Nyberg Sophie , Abbott N. Joan , Shi Xiaorui , Steyger Peter S. , Dabdoub Alain
Published: March 2019

This Review discusses invasive and noninvasive therapeutic delivery methods to the inner ear and challenges presented by the blood-labyrinth barrier.