bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scaffold‐free Tissue Formation Under Real and Simulated Microgravity Conditions
Authors: Aleshcheva Ganna , Bauer Johann , Hemmersbach Ruth , Slumstrup Lasse , Wehland Markus , Infanger Manfred , Grimm Daniela
Published: January 2016

Scaffold‐free tissue formation in microgravity is a new method in regenerative medicine and an important topic in Space Medicine. In this MiniReview, we focus on recent findings in the field of tissue engineering that were observed by exposing cells to real microgravity in space or to devices simulating to at least some extent microgravity conditions on Earth (ground‐based facilities). Under both conditions – real and simulated microgravity – a part of the cultured cells of various populations detaches from the bottom of a culture flask. The cells form three‐dimensional (3D) aggregates resembling the organs from which the cells have been derived. As spaceflights are rare and extremely expensive, cell culture under simulated microgravity allows more comprehensive and frequent studies on the scaffold‐free 3D tissue formation in some aspects, as a number of publications have proven during the last two decades. In this MiniReview, we summarize data from our own studies and work from various researchers about tissue engineering of multi‐cellular spheroids formed by cancer cells, tube formation by endothelial cells and cartilage formation by exposing the cells to ground‐based facilities such as the 3D Random Positioning Machine (RPM), the 2D Fast‐Rotating Clinostat (FRC) or the Rotating Wall Vessel (RWV). Subsequently, we investigated self‐organization of 3D aggregates without scaffolds pursuing to enhance the frequency of 3D formation and to enlarge the size of the organ‐like aggregates. The density of the monolayer exposed to real or simulated microgravity as well as the composition of the culture media revealed an impact on the results. Genomic and proteomic alterations were induced by simulated microgravity. Under microgravity conditions, adherent cells expressed other genes than cells grown in spheroids. In this MiniReview, the recent improvements in scaffold‐free tissue formation are summarized and relationships between phenotypic and molecular appearance are highlighted.
Drug screening and grouping by sensitivity with a panel of primary cultured cancer spheroids derived from endometrial cancer
Authors: Kiyohara Yumiko , Yoshino Kiyoshi , Kubota Satoshi , Okuyama Hiroaki , Endo Hiroko , Ueda Yutaka , Kimura Toshihiro , Kimura Tadashi , Kamiura Shoji , Inoue Masahiro
Published: January 2016

Several molecular targeting drugs are being evaluated for endometrial cancer; selecting patients whose cancers are sensitive to these agents is of paramount importance. Previously, we developed the cancer tissue‐originated spheroid method for primary cancer cells taken from patients’ tumors as well as patient‐derived xenografts. In this study, we successfully prepared and cultured cancer tissue‐originated spheroids from endometrial cancers. Characteristics of the original tumors were well retained in cancer tissue‐originated spheroids including morphology and expression of p53 or neuroendocrine markers. We screened 79 molecular targeting drugs using two cancer tissue‐originated spheroid lines derived from endometrioid adenocarcinoma grade 3 and serous adenocarcinoma. Among several hits, we focused on everolimus, a mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 inhibitor, and YM155, a survivin inhibitor. When sensitivity to everolimus or YM155 was assessed in 12 or 11 cancer tissue‐originated spheroids, respectively, from different endometrial cancer patients, the sensitivity varied substantially. The cancer tissue‐originated spheroids sensitive to everolimus showed remarkable suppression of proliferation. The phosphorylation status of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 downstream molecules before and after everolimus treatment did not predict the effect of the drug. In contrast, the cancer tissue‐originated spheroids sensitive to YM155 showed remarkable cell death. The effect of YM155 was also confirmed in vivo. The histological type correlated with YM155 sensitivity; non‐endometrioid adenocarcinomas were sensitive and endometrioid adenocarcinomas were resistant. Non‐canonical autophagic cell death was the most likely cause of cell death in a sensitive cancer tissue‐originated spheroid. Thus, sensitivity assays using cancer tissue‐originated spheroids from endometrial cancers may be useful for screening drugs and finding biomarkers.
Topical application of epidermal growth factor with no scaffold material on the healing of human traumatic tympanic membrane perforations
Authors: Lou Z.C. , Yang J. , Tang Y. , Fu Y.H.
Published: January 2016

Objective

We evaluated the effects of conservative treatment and topical application of epidermal growth factor (EGF) with no scaffold material on the healing of human traumatic tympanic membrane perforations (TMPs).

Study Design

Prospective, randomised clinical trial.

Methods

A prospective analysis was performed between January 2015 and March 2015 for the treatment of human traumatic TMPs. The closure rate, closure time, hearing gain and rate of purulent otorrhoea were compared between the topical application of EGF and conservative treatment.

Result

In total, 97 patients were analysed. The total closure rates did not significantly differ between the observation and EGF groups (83.0% versus 92.0%, P = 0.182). The total average closure time in the observation group was significantly longer than in the EGF group (25.1 ± 10.5 versus 11.7 ± 5.2 days, P = 0.001). When the closure rate was evaluated according to perforation size, no significant difference was seen for medium or large perforations (P = 0.18 and 0.21, respectively). When closure time was evaluated according to perforation size, a significant difference was seen for medium and large perforations (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

This study suggests that topical application of EGF with no scaffold material may significantly shorten the closure time of human traumatic TMPs. Such a shorter recovery time may lead to reduced healthcare costs. This alternative technique to a classic myringoplasty is particularly beneficial and suitable for the closure of large human traumatic TMPs.
Transpapillary selective bile duct cannulation technique: Review of Japanese randomized controlled trials since 2010 and an overview of clinical results in precut sphincterotomy since 2004
Authors: Kawakami Hiroshi , Kubota Yoshimasa , Kawahata Shuhei , Kubo Kimitoshi , Kawakubo Kazumichi , Kuwatani Masaki , Sakamoto Naoya
Published: January 2016

In 1970, a Japanese group reported the first use of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which is now carried out worldwide. Selective bile duct cannulation is a mandatory technique for diagnostic and therapeutic ERCP. Development of the endoscope and other devices has contributed to the extended use of ERCP, which has become a basic procedure to diagnose and treat pancreaticobiliary diseases. Various techniques related to selective bile duct cannulation have been widely applied. Although the classical contrast medium injection cannulation technique remains valuable, use of wire‐guided cannulation has expanded since the early 2000s, and the technique is now widely carried out in the USA and Europe. Endoscopists must pay particular attention to a patient's condition and make an attendant choice about the most effective technique for selective bile duct cannulation. Some techniques have the potential to shorten procedure time and reduce the incidence of adverse events, particularly post‐ERCP pancreatitis. However, a great deal of experience is required and endoscopists must be skilled in a variety of techniques. Although the development of the transpapillary biliary cannulation approach is remarkable, it is important to note that, to date, there have been no reports of transpapillary cannulation preventing post‐ERCP pancreatitis. In the present article, selective bile duct cannulation techniques in the context of recent Japanese randomized controlled trials and cases of precut sphincterotomy are reviewed and discussed.
Management of dystonia in Europe: a survey of the European network for the study of the dystonia syndromes
Authors: Valadas A. , Contarino M‐F. , Albanese A. , Bhatia K. P. , Falup‐Pecurariu C. , Forsgren L. , Friedman A. , Giladi N. , Hutchinson M. , Kostic V. S. , Krauss J. K. , Lokkegaard A. , Marti M. J. , Milanov I. , Pirtosek Z. , Relja M. , Skorvanek M. , Stamelou M. , Stepens A. , Tamás G. , Taravari A. , Tzoulis C. , Vandenberghe W. , Vidailhet M. , Ferreira J. J. , Tijssen M. A.
Published: January 2016

Background and purpose

Dystonia is difficult to recognize due to its large phenomenological complexity. Thus, the use of experts in dystonia is essential for better recognition and management of dystonia syndromes (DS). Our aim was to document managing strategies, facilities and expertise available in various European countries in order to identify which measures should be implemented to improve the management of DS.

Methods

A survey was conducted, funded by the Cooperation in Science and Technology, via the management committee of the European network for the study of DS, which is formed from representatives of the 24 countries involved.

Results

Lack of specific training in dystonia by general neurologists, general practitioners as well as other allied health professionals was universal in all countries surveyed. Genetic testing for rare dystonia mutations is not readily available in a significant number of countries and neurophysiological studies are difficult to perform due to a lack of experts in this field of movement disorders. Tetrabenazine is only readily available for treatment of dystonia in half of the surveyed countries. Deep brain stimulation is available in three‐quarters of the countries, but other surgical procedures are only available in one‐quarter of countries.

Conclusions

Internationally, collaboration in training, advanced diagnosis, treatment and research of DS and, locally, in each country the creation of multidisciplinary teams for the management of dystonia patients could provide the basis for improving all aspects of dystonia management across Europe.
Non‐exophytic Lambl excrescences of aortic valves: a morphological study
Authors: Matsukuma Susumu , Koga Ayano , Takeo Hiroaki , Kato Kimi , Mori Kazuma , Sato Kimiya
Published: January 2016

Aims

To elucidate the histopathological findings of classical Lambl excrescences (LEs) and non‐exophytic LEs (non‐ex LEs) without excrescent papillary features.

Methods and results

We examined 126 aortic valves (AVs) and revealed LEs (non‐ex and/or classical), non‐ex LEs and classical LEs in 106, 78 and 88 AVs, respectively. The detection of non‐ex LEs was challenging, but elastica van Gieson stain highlighted their presence. Non‐ex and classical LEs chiefly involved the ventricular regions, favoured posterior cusps and coexisted in the same areas of 31 AVs. A possible transformation of classical LEs into non‐ex LEs was suggested histologically in 39 AVs. Non‐ex LEs were associated with age of >70 years (P < 0.001) and marked deformity (P = 0.007). Classical LEs were associated inversely with marked deformity (P < 0.001), but not with age of >70 years. Compared with age‐ and sex‐matched control AVs, non‐ex LEs and marked deformity in dysfunctional AVs were more common (P = 0.037 and P < 0.001, respectively), but classical LEs were less common (P = 0.021).

Conclusions

Non‐ex LEs have subtle features but are a common form of LEs, and seem to develop from classical LEs. AV dysfunction‐related marked deformity can promote non‐ex LEs.
Distribution of the c‐MYC gene product in colorectal neoplasia
Authors: Baker Ann‐Marie , Van Noorden Susan , Rodriguez‐Justo Manuel , Cohen Patrizia , Wright Nicholas A , Lampert Irvin A
Published: January 2016

Aims

Recent attempts to study MYC distribution in human samples have been confounded by a lack of agreement in immunohistochemical staining between antibodies targeting the N‐terminus and those targeting the C‐terminus of the MYC protein. The aim of this study was to use a novel in‐situ hybridization (ISH) approach to detect MYC mRNA in clinically relevant samples, and thereby determine the reliability of MYC‐targeting antibodies.

Methods and results

We performed immunohistochemistry on human formalin‐fixed paraffin embedded normal colon (n = 15), hyperplastic polyp (n = 4) and neoplastic colon samples (n = 55), using the N‐terminally directed antibody Y69, and the C‐terminally directed antibody 9E10. The MYC protein distributions were then compared with the location of MYC mRNA, determined by ISH. We found that the localization of MYC mRNA correlated well with the protein distribution determined with the N‐terminally directed antibody Y69, and was also associated with expression of the proliferation marker Ki67. The protein distribution determined with the C‐terminally directed antibody 9E10 was not always associated with MYC mRNA, Y69, or Ki67, and indeed often showed a reciprocal pattern of expression, with staining being strongest in non‐proliferating cells.

Conclusions

The observed discrepancy between the staining patterns suggests that the significance of 9E10 in immunohistochemical staining is currently uncertain, and therefore should be interpreted with caution.
Mismatch repair deficiency in Lynch syndrome‐associated colorectal adenomas is more prevalent in older patients
Authors: Tanaka Masahiro , Nakajima Takeshi , Sugano Kokichi , Yoshida Teruhiko , Taniguchi Hirokazu , Kanemitsu Yukihide , Nagino Masato , Sekine Shigeki
Published: January 2016

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine the expression of mismatch repair (MMR) proteins in Lynch syndrome (LS)‐associated colorectal adenomas and to evaluate their relationship with clinicopathological variables and potential utility in LS screening.

Methods and results

We performed immunohistochemistry for MLH1, PMS2, MSH2 and MSH6 in 134 adenomas obtained from 26 genetically confirmed LS patients. MMR deficiency, as determined by loss of any MMR protein, was observed in 113 adenomas (84%). All the MMR‐deficient adenomas exhibited homogeneous loss of MMR proteins, which reflected underlying germline mutations. MMR deficiency was more frequent in adenomas obtained from older patients (aged ≥60 years; 81 of 86, 94%), with larger tumour size (>5 mm; 71 of 73, 97%) and with high‐grade dysplasia (50 of 51, 98%). Multivariate analyses indicated that increased age and larger tumour size were associated independently with MMR deficiency.

Conclusions

This study shows that MMR deficiency is associated significantly with increased age, in addition to two previously reported factors–larger size and high‐grade dysplasia. When adenomas are analysed during LS screening, high sensitivity is expected if the adenomas are associated with any of these three factors.
Widespread morbilliform rash due to sorafenib or vemurafenib treatment for advanced cancer; experience of a tertiary dermato‐oncology clinic
Authors: Ollech Ayelet , Stemmer Salomon M. , Merims Sharon , Lotem Michal , Popovtzer Aron , Hendler Daniel , Hodak Emmilia , Didkovsky Elena , Amitay‐Laish Iris
Published: January 2016

Background

In the literature, there are minimal data for the treatment of grade 2 or 3 morbilliform/atypical target lesion rashes secondary to sorafenib or vemurafenib given for patients with advanced stage cancer. This poses a dilemma for clinicians, particularly in patients with advanced neoplastic disease for whom other optional treatments are limited.

Methods

The cohort included data on all patients attending the dermato‐oncological clinic at a tertiary medical center that presented in 2011–2014 with a widespread rash following treatment with sorafenib or vemurafenib. All patients were prospectively followed.

Results

Eight patients met the study criteria. Five, under sorafenib, aged 50–65 years, presented with an extensive grade 2 (involving 20–30% of the body surface area, two patients) or grade 3 (three patients) morbilliform rash, 5–10 days after onset of the drug. Two had atypical target lesions. The dosage was temporarily reduced in only two patients, and oral steroids were added in four. Under vemurafenib, three patients presented with an extensive grade 3 morbilliform rash 5–10 days after onset of treatment. Two had atypical target lesions. The dose was temporarily reduced in one, and another patient stopped the drug at her own initiative; both also received steroids. The rash subsided after 2–3 weeks in all eight patients, allowing continuation of the treatment at the regular dose.

Conclusion

Our cohort suggests that not all cases of widespread morbilliform rash or atypical erythema multiforme, which occur under treatment with sorafenib or vemurafenib, given for advanced cancer, require discontinuation of therapy.
Caries increment in young children in Skaraborg, Sweden: associations with parental sociodemography, health habits, and attitudes
Authors: Östberg Anna‐Lena , Skeie Marit S. , Skaare Anne B. , Espelid Ivar
Published: January 2016

Aim

To explore parental sociodemography, oral health habits, and attitudes in relation to dental caries increment in their children.

Design

A longitudinal questionnaire and clinical study. The children were followed annually from age 3 years (n= 271) to 6 years (n= 243). Carious lesions of different depth were registered (initial and manifest) by four calibrated dentists. The parents filled out a questionnaire. Statistics included factor analyses, Cronbach's alpha together with bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

Most of the parents exhibited positive health behaviour and attitudes. ‘Late start of toothbrushing of child’ was, however, common (≥1 year; 29%) and ‘external locus of control’ showed a high mean value (10,1; possible range 3–15). In a multivariate model, ‘parent born abroad’ (OR3.26, 95%CI1.85–5.76) and ‘parental indulgence’ (OR3.20, 95%CI1.37–7.51) were the most important for the development of carious lesions in the children.

Conclusions

This study identified ‘parent born abroad’ and ‘parental indulgence’ as significant risk factors for caries in the age period 3 to 6 years. Identifying parents with the greatest need should be emphasized, in order to target promotion and prevention activities.
Fruit and Vegetables Consumption and Risk of Hypertension: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Li Bingrong , Li Fang , Wang Longfei , Zhang Dongfeng
Published: January 2016

The association between fruit and vegetables (FVs) consumption and hypertension risk remains controversial. A systematic search was performed in PubMed and the Web of Science for relevant articles published in English or Chinese up to April 2015. A total of 25 studies with 334,468 patients (41,713 cases) were included in the present meta‐analysis. When comparing the highest with the lowest consumption, the pooled relative risks of hypertension were 0.812 (95% confidence interval, 0.740–0.890) for FVs, 0.732 (95% confidence interval, 0.621–0.861) for fruit, and 0.970 (95% confidence interval, 0.918–1.024) for vegetables. A significantly inverse association between fruit consumption and hypertension risk was found in studies carried out in Asia (relative risk, 0.70; 95% confidence interval, 0.61–0.79). Influence analysis revealed that no individual study had an excessive influence on the pooled relative risks. The present meta‐analysis indicates that FV consumption might be inversely associated with hypertension risk, which still needs to be confirmed by prospective cohort studies.
Resection of portal and/or superior mesenteric vein and reconstruction by using allogeneic vein for pT3 pancreatic cancer
Authors: Zhang Xing‐mao , Fan Hua , Kou Jian‐tao , Zhang Xin‐xue , Li Ping , Dai Yang , He Qiang
Published: January 2016

Background and Aim

There is still controversy on the outcomes of portal vein (PV) and/or superior mesenteric vein (SMV) resection in pancreatic cancer, and there are few reports about pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) with PV/SMV resection and reconstruction by using allogeneic vein. This study is to explore the outcomes of PD with PV/SMV resection and reconstruction by using allogeneic vein for pT3 pancreatic cancer with venous invasion.

Methods

Clinicopathological data of patients underwent PD with en bloc resection of PV/SMV and reconstruction by using internal iliac from August 20, 2013 to July 25, 2015 were collected and the data of patients with pT3 stage pancreatic head cancer with PV/SMV invasion were analyzed. The short‐ and long‐term outcomes were presented.

Results

Thirty patients met the criteria of this study. PV resection and reconstruction were performed for 12 patients, SMV for 9 patients, and PV + SMV for 9 patients, respectively. The median operation time was 460 min, and the median intraoperative blood loss was 450 mL. R0 resection rate was 93.3%, total incidence of complications was 23.3%, and incidence of pancreatic fistula was 10%. The 1‐year and 2‐year overall survival rates were 68.6% and 39.2%, 1‐year and 2‐year disease free survival rates were 44.8% and 17.1%.

Conclusions

PD with en bloc resection of PV/SMV and reconstruction by using allogeneic vein was safe and feasible for patients with pT3 stage pancreatic head cancer with PV/SMV invasion. A large‐scale research with longer follow‐up time is required to draw a significant conclusion.
The transcription factor calcium‐response factor limitsNMDAreceptor‐dependent transcription in the developing brain
Authors: Lyons Michelle R. , Chen Liang‐Fu , Deng Jie V. , Finn Caitlin , Pfenning Andreas R. , Sabhlok Aditi , Wilson Kelli M. , West Anne E.
Published: January 2016

Neuronal activity sculpts brain development by inducing the transcription of genes such as brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) that modulate the function of synapses. Sensory experience is transduced into changes in gene transcription via the activation of calcium signaling pathways downstream of both L‐type voltage‐gated calcium channels (L‐VGCCs) andNMDA‐type glutamate receptors (NMDARs). These signaling pathways converge on the regulation of transcription factors including calcium‐response factor (CaRF). Although CaRFis dispensable for the transcriptional induction ofBdnffollowing the activation of L‐VGCCs, here we show that the loss of CaRFleads to enhancedNMDAR‐dependent transcription ofBdnfas well asArc. We identify theNMDARsubunit‐encoding geneGrin3aas a regulatory target of CaRF, and we show that expression of bothCarfandGrin3ais depressed by the elevation of intracellular calcium, linking the function of this transcriptional regulatory pathway to neuronal activity. We find that light‐dependent activation ofBdnfandArctranscription is enhanced in the visual cortex of young CaRFknockout mice, suggesting a role for CaRF‐dependent dampening ofNMDAR‐dependent transcription in the developing brain. Finally, we demonstrate that enhancedBdnfexpression in CaRF‐lacking neurons increases inhibitory synapse formation. Taken together, these data reveal a novel role for CaRFas an upstream regulator ofNMDAR‐dependent gene transcription and synapse formation in the developing brain.

image

NMDARs promote brain development by inducing the transcription of genes, including brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). We show that the transcription factor calcium‐response factor (CaRF) limits NMDAR‐dependent BDNF induction by regulating expression of the NMDAR subunit GluN3A. Loss of CaRF leads to enhanced BDNF‐dependent GABAergic synapse formation indicating the importance of this process for brain development. Our observation that both CaRF and GluN3A are down‐regulated by intracellular calcium suggests that this may be a mechanism for experience‐dependent modulation of synapse formation.
An innovative regenerative treatment of scars with dermal micrografts
Authors: Svolacchia Fabiano , De Francesco Francesco , Trovato Letizia , Graziano Antonio , Ferraro Giuseppe A.
Published: January 2016

Background

Pathological scars occur following injuries and are often considered esthetically unattractive. Several strategies have been attempted to improve these types of scars using both surgical and nonsurgical methods. The most common treatments include cryotherapy, intralesional corticosteroid injections, 5‐fluorouracil, bleomycin, interferon, and verapamil.

Aims

In this study, we aim to investigate the effectiveness of dermal autologous micrografts in the treatment of pathological scars resulting from burns, trauma, or any iatrogenic source.

Methods

We used a new clinical practice called Rigenera Protocol to obtain autologous micrografts which were in turn injectable in the patients.

Results

A significant improvement was observed in appearance and texture of the exaggerated scars in all cases following already 4 months of autologous micrograft treatment We have also shown that these micrografts are composed of mesenchymal stem cells and in addition, histological evaluation verified restoration of the structural layers immediately below the epidermis and a horizontal realignment of collagen fibers in the papillary dermis.

Conclusion

Our results clearly demonstrate the optimal outcomes obtained following treatment with dermal micrografts on exaggerated scars with different etiologies. However, further studies are required to confirm the efficacy of this new technique.
Effect of dietary Schizochytrium microalga oil on selected markers of low‐grade inflammation in rats
Authors: Komprda T. , Sládek Z. , Škultéty O. , Křížková S. , Rozíková V. , Němcová B. , Šustrová T. , Valová M.
Published: January 2016

The objective of the present study was to evaluate a potential of Schizochytrium microalga oil to alleviate possible negative effects of high‐fat‐high‐energy diets. Forty adult male rats (Wistar Albino) were fed 7 weeks the diet containing beef tallow + evaporated sweetened milk (diet T) intended to cause mild obesity and low‐grade systemic inflammation. Consequently, the animals were divided into four groups by 10 animals each and fed either the T‐diet (control) or the diet containing 6% of safflower oil (S), 6% of fish oil (F) and 6% of Schizochytrium microalga oil (A), respectively, for another 7 weeks. The A‐diet decreased (p < 0.05) live weight to 86% and glycaemia to 85% of control, respectively; an effect of the S‐ and F‐diet on these markers was insignificant (p > 0.05). In comparison with control, higher (p < 0.05) deposition of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) + docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the epididymal adipose tissue (EAT) of the A‐rats correlated with increased (p < 0.05) plasma adiponectin concentration, but it was without the effect (p > 0.05) on cellular adiponectin content in the EAT. Higher (p < 0.05) EPA+DHA deposition in the liver of the A‐rats correlated with higher expression (149% of control; p < 0.05) of the gene coding for peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma, and with lower expression (82% and 66%; p < 0.05) of the genes coding for adiponectin receptors AdipoR1 and AdipoR2; no relationship to the expression of receptor GPR120 was found. The A‐diet did not affect amount of the nuclear fraction of the nuclear factor kappa B in the liver, but increased plasma level of anti‐inflammatory cytokine TGF‐β1 (p < 0.05). The presented data agree with results of other in vivo rodent and human studies, but not with literature data regarding in vitro experiments: it can be concluded that the effects of dietary oils on inflammatory markers need further investigation.
Sleep and academic performance in later adolescence: results from a large population‐based study
Authors: Hysing Mari , Harvey Allison G. , Linton Steven J. , Askeland Kristin G. , Sivertsen Børge
Published: January 2016

The aim of the current study was to assess the association between sleep duration and sleep patterns and academic performance in 16–19 year‐old adolescents using registry‐based academic grades. A large population‐based study from Norway conducted in 2012, the youth@hordaland‐survey, surveyed 7798 adolescents aged 16–19 years (53.5% girls). The survey was linked with objective outcome data on school performance. Self‐reported sleep measures provided information on sleep duration, sleep efficiency, sleep deficit and bedtime differences between weekday and weekend. School performance [grade point average (GPA)] was obtained from official administrative registries. Most sleep parameters were associated with increased risk for poor school performance. After adjusting for sociodemographic information, short sleep duration and sleep deficit were the sleep measures with the highest odds of poor GPA (lowest quartile). Weekday bedtime was associated significantly with GPA, with adolescents going to bed between 22:00 and 23:00 hours having the best GPA. Also, delayed sleep schedule during weekends was associated with poor academic performance. The associations were somewhat reduced after additional adjustment for non‐attendance at school, but remained significant in the fully adjusted models. In conclusion, the demonstrated relationship between sleep problems and poor academic performance suggests that careful assessment of sleep is warranted when adolescents are underperforming at school. Future studies are needed on the association between impaired sleep in adolescence and later functioning in adulthood.
Beta EEG reflects sensory processing in active wakefulness and homeostatic sleep drive in quiet wakefulness
Authors: Grønli Janne , Rempe Michael J. , Clegern William C. , Schmidt Michelle , Wisor Jonathan P.
Published: January 2016

Markers of sleep drive (<10 Hz; slow‐wave activity and theta) have been identified in the course of slow‐wave sleep and wakefulness. So far, higher frequencies in the waking electroencephalogram have not been examined thoroughly as a function of sleep drive. Here, electroencephalogram dynamics were measured in epochs of active wake (wake characterized by high muscle tone) or quiet wake (wake characterized by low muscle tone). It was hypothesized that the higher beta oscillations (15–35 Hz, measured by local field potential and electroencephalography) represent fundamentally different processes in active wake and quiet wake. In active wake, sensory stimulation elevated beta activity in parallel with gamma (80–90 Hz) activity, indicative of cognitive processing. In quiet wake, beta activity paralleled slow‐wave activity (1–4 Hz) and theta (5–8 Hz) in tracking sleep need. Cerebral lactate concentration, a measure of cerebral glucose utilization, increased during active wake whereas it declined during quiet wake. Mathematical modelling of state‐dependent dynamics of cortical lactate concentration was more precisely predictive when quiet wake and active wake were included as two distinct substates rather than a uniform state of wakefulness. The extent to which lactate concentration declined in quiet wake and increased in active wake was proportionate to the amount of beta activity. These data distinguish quiet wake from active wake. Quiet wake, particularly when characterized by beta activity, is permissive to metabolic and electrophysiological changes that occur in slow‐wave sleep. These data urge further studies on state‐dependent beta oscillations across species.
Genomic and functional approaches reveal a case of adaptive introgression fromPopulus balsamifera(balsam poplar) inP. trichocarpa(black cottonwood)
Authors: Suarez‐Gonzalez Adriana , Hefer Charles A. , Christe Camille , Corea Oliver , Lexer Christian , Cronk Quentin C. B. , Douglas Carl J.
Published: January 2016

Natural hybrid zones in forest trees provide systems to study the transfer of adaptive genetic variation by introgression. Previous landscape genomic studies inPopulus trichocarpa, a keystone tree species, indicated genomic footprints of admixture with its sister speciesPopulus balsamiferaand identified candidate genes for local adaptation. Here, we explored the patterns of introgression and signals of local adaptation inP. trichocarpaandP. balsamifera, employing genome resequencing data from three chromosomes in pure species and admixed individuals from wild populations. Local ancestry analysis in admixedP. trichocarparevealed a telomeric region in chromosome 15 withP. balsamiferaancestry, containing several candidate genes for local adaptation. Genomic analyses revealed signals of selection in certain genes in this region (e.g.PRR5,COMT1), and functional analyses based on gene expression variation and correlations with adaptive phenotypes suggest distinct functions of the introgressed alleles. In contrast, a block of genes in chromosome 12 paralogous to the introgressed region showed no signs of introgression or signatures of selection. We hypothesize that the introgressed region in chromosome 15 has introduced modular or cassette‐like variation intoP. trichocarpa. These linked adaptive mutations are associated with a block of genes in chromosome 15 that appear to have undergone neo‐ or subfunctionalization relative to paralogs in a duplicated region on chromosome 12 that show no signatures of adaptive variation. The association betweenP. balsamiferaintrogressed alleles with the expression of adaptive traits inP. trichocarpasupports the hypothesis that this is a case of adaptive introgression in an ecologically important foundation species.
Frequency and mitotic heritability of epimutations in Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Roquis David , Rognon Anne , Chaparro Cristian , Boissier Jerome , Arancibia Nathalie , Cosseau Celine , Parrinello Hugues , Grunau Christoph
Published: January 2016

Schistosoma mansoni is a parasitic platyhelminth responsible for intestinal bilharzia. It has a complex life cycle, infecting a freshwater snail of the Biomphalaria genus, and then a mammalian host. Schistosoma mansoni adapts rapidly to new (allopatric) strains of its intermediate host. To study the importance of epimutations in this process, we infected sympatric and allopatric mollusc strains with parasite clones. ChIP‐Seq was carried out on four histone modifications (H3K4me3, H3K27me3, H3K27ac and H4K20me1) in parallel with genomewide DNA resequencing (i) on parasite larvae shed by the infected snails and (ii) on adult worms that had developed from the larvae. No change in single nucleotide polymorphisms and no mobilization of transposable elements were observed, but 58–105 copy number variations (CNVs) within the parasite clones in different molluscs were detected. We also observed that the allopatric environment induces three types of chromatin structure changes: (i) host‐induced changes on larvae epigenomes in 51 regions of the genome that are independent of the parasites’ genetic background, (ii) spontaneous changes (not related to experimental condition or genotype of the parasite) at 64 locations and (iii) 64 chromatin structure differences dependent on the parasite genotype. Up to 45% of the spontaneous, but none of the host‐induced chromatin structure changes were transmitted to adults. In our model, the environment induces epigenetic changes at specific loci but only spontaneous epimutations are mitotically heritable and have therefore the potential to contribute to transgenerational inheritance. We also show that CNVs are the only source of genetic variation and occur at the same order of magnitude as epimutations.
Detecting hybridization using ancient DNA
Authors: Schaefer Nathan K. , Shapiro Beth , Green Richard E.
Published: January 2016

It is well established that related species hybridize and that this can have varied but significant effects on speciation and environmental adaptation. It should therefore come as no surprise that hybridization is not limited to species that are alive today. In the last several decades, advances in technologies for recovering and sequencing DNA from fossil remains have enabled the assembly of high‐coverage genome sequences for a growing diversity of organisms, including many that are extinct. Thanks to the development of new statistical approaches for detecting and quantifying admixture from genomic data, genomes from extinct populations have proven useful both in revealing previously unknown hybridization events and informing the study of hybridization between living organisms. Here, we review some of the key recent statistical innovations for detecting ancient hybridization using genomewide sequence data and discuss how these innovations have revised our understanding of human evolutionary history.
Three magnitude 7 earthquakes on a single fault in central Italy in 1400 years, evidenced by new palaeoseismic results
Authors: Galli Paolo , Giaccio Biagio , Messina Paolo , Peronace Edoardo
Published: January 2016

New palaeoseismic trenching across the main splay of the Fucino fault system provides evidence for a High Middle Age surface‐faulting episode conceivably associated with a disruptive earthquake, similar to the one that occurred in 1915 (Mw 7.0). The existence of this event, which has already been suggested by some previous studies, implies a shortening of the recurrence interval for Mw 7.0 earthquakes with respect to current knowledge. If we assume that the palaeoseismic Holocene record is complete, this shortening is focused in the historical period, when the Fucino structure sourced three strong earthquakes in only 1.4 ka. A similar clustering of energy release in the recent past is consistent with both palaeoseismological studies on other faults affecting the Apennine divide, and the high GPS strain rates observed in the same chain sectors.
Reducing the risk of transfusion‐transmitted cytomegalovirus infection: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mainou Maria , Alahdab Fares , Tobian Aaron A.R. , Asi Noor , Mohammed Khaled , Murad M. Hassan , Grossman Brenda J.
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUND

Leukoreduced (LR) or cytomegalovirus (CMV)‐seronegative cellular blood components are commonly used to reduce the risk of transfusion‐transmitted CMV infection in high‐risk patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the evidence for the use of LR cellular blood components with or without concurrent CMV testing of donor units in patients undergoing chemotherapy or solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, in pregnant women, in very‐low‐birthweight infants, and in patients with primary immunodeficiency. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus from 1980 through February 2015. Studies were included if they had a comparison group. Two independent reviewers selected and appraised studies. Meta‐analysis was performed when appropriate.

RESULTS

Of 457 studies screened, 11 were eligible. One study was excluded from the meta‐analysis because the comparison performed differed significantly from the others. Meta‐analysis of five studies that compared leukoreduction to transfusing CMV‐untested blood components showed no significant difference in clinical CMV infection (relative risk [RR], 0.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.04‐1.57) or laboratory CMV infection (RR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.08‐1.37). Meta‐analysis of three studies that compared leukoreduction to transfusing CMV‐seronegative cellular components showed no significant difference in laboratory CMV infection (RR, 2.18; 95% CI, 0.96‐4.98). Meta‐analysis of two studies that compared adding CMV testing to leukoreduction (vs. leukoreduction alone) showed no significant difference in clinical or laboratory CMV infection. The certainty in estimates was low for all comparisons.

CONCLUSION

At present, the scientific evidence does not favor a single strategy for reducing the risk of transfusion‐related CMV infection in high‐risk patients.
Evaluation of Faecal Salmonella Shedding Among Dogs at Seven Animal Shelters across Texas
Authors: Leahy A. M. , Cummings K. J. , Rodriguez‐Rivera L. D. , Rankin S. C. , Hamer S. A.
Published: January 2016

Estimates of prevalence of faecal Salmonella shedding among dogs in the United States have varied widely. Surveillance among shelter dogs has been limited, although dogs in animal shelters may be at elevated risk of Salmonella infection because of their previous exposure history as well as factors inherent to shelter environments. Our objectives were to estimate the prevalence of Salmonella shedding among shelter dogs across Texas, to identify risk factors for shedding and to characterize the isolates. Using a repeated cross‐sectional study design, we collected faecal samples from dogs on two or three visits to each of seven Texas animal shelters between May 2013 and December 2014. Standard bacteriologic culture methods were used to isolate Salmonella from samples, and isolates were characterized via serotyping and anti‐microbial susceptibility testing. The prevalence of faecal Salmonella shedding among sampled dogs was 4.9% (27/554), and within‐shelter prevalence ranged from 1.9% to 8.3%. There was a marginal association (P = 0.09) between watery faecal samples and positive Salmonella status, as estimated by a logistic regression model that controlled for shelter as a random effect. However, over 60% of Salmonella‐positive dogs had grossly normal faeces. Salmonella prevalence did not vary significantly by age group or sex. The most common serovars were Newport (22%) and Javiana (15%), both of which were widespread among shelters. Resistance to anti‐microbial agents was uncommon. The prevalence of faecal Salmonella shedding among shelter dogs in Texas appears to be comparable to that seen among pet dogs in general.
The analysis of the interaction of the migration, diversity and permeability in parallel genetic algorithms
Authors: Kuvat Gultekin , Adar Nihat
Published: January 2016

Diversity is an important factor for genetic algorithms to do a successful search. High diversity obtained owing to the migration is one of the most important reasons of generation of successful results by Parallel Genetic Algorithms. While permeability is a new term that analyses the effect of the migration parameters in Parallel Genetic Algorithms. In this study, the effect of changing migration intervals on the permeability and the performance of algorithm has been examined and it has been showed that the migration done in exploration phase has made much more contribution to the performance of the algorithm. In addition to this, for the different migration parameters of the individuals that will migrate the values of diversity and permeability have been calculated and the obtained results have been analysed.
Free terminal time optimal control problem for the treatment of HIV infection
Authors: Hamdache Amine , Saadi Smahane , Elmouki Ilias
Published: January 2016

In this work, an optimal control approach is presented in order to propose an optimal therapy for the treatment HIV infection using a combination of two appropriate treatment strategies. The optimal treatment duration and the optimal medications amount are considered. The main objective of this study is to be able to maximize the benet based on number of healthy CD4+ T-cells and CTL immune cells and to minimize the infection level and the overall treatment cost while optimizing the duration of therapy. The free terminal time optimal control problem is formulated and the Pontryagin's maximum principle is employedto provide the explicit formulations of the optimal controls. The corresponding optimality system with the additional transversality condition for the terminal time is derived and solved numerically using an adapted iterative method with a Runge-Kutta fourth order scheme and a gradient method routine.
Addressing Underrepresentation: Physics Teaching for All
Authors: Rifkin Moses
Published: January 2016

Every physics teacher wants to give his or her students the opportunity to learn physics well. Despite these intentions, certain groups of students—including women and underrepresented minorities (URMs)—are not taking and not remaining in physics. In many cases, these disturbing trends are more significant in physics than in any other science. This is a missed opportunity for our discipline because demographic diversity strengthens science. The question is what we can do about these trends in our classrooms, as very few physics teachers have been explicitly prepared to address them. In this article, I will share some steps that I've taken in my classroom that have moved my class in the right direction. In the words of Nobel Prize-winning physicist Carl Wieman and psychologists Lauren Aguilar and Gregory Walton: “By investing a small amount of class time in carefully designed and implemented interventions, physics teachers can promote greater success among students from diverse backgrounds. Ultimately, we hope such efforts will indeed improve the diversity and health of the physics profession.”
Motion of a Ball on a Moving Surface
Authors: Cross Rod
Published: January 2016

A well-known physics demonstration is to pull a tablecloth rapidly from under some crockery without disturbing the crockery. An interesting question is whether the same result can be expected if the crockery is replaced by a ball, given that the ball might roll backwards on the tablecloth. Theoretical and experimental results are presented showing that the result depends on the acceleration of the tablecloth. If crockery is at rest on a tablecloth, and if the tablecloth is pulled slowly, then the crockery will move at the same speed as the tablecloth. With a rapid pull, the crockery appears not to move at all. In fact, the crockery will move a small distance horizontally since the coefficient of sliding friction is not zero. The secret of success is to minimize the horizontal impulse, not by reducing the friction force but by reducing the time over which it acts.
Free Energy in Introductory Physics
Authors: Prentis Jeffrey J. , Obsniuk Michael J.
Published: January 2016

Energy and entropy are two of the most important concepts in science. For all natural processes where a system exchanges energy with its environment, the energy of the system tends to decrease and the entropy of the system tends to increase. Free energy is the special concept that specifies how to balance the opposing tendencies to minimize energy and maximize entropy. There are many pedagogical articles on energy and entropy. Here we present a simple model to illustrate the concept of free energy and the principle of minimum free energy.
Environment, host, and fungal traits predict continental-scale white-nose syndrome in bats
Authors: Hayman David T. S. , Pulliam Juliet R. C. , Marshall Jonathan C. , Cryan Paul M. , Webb Colleen T.
Published: January 2016

Modeling environment and individual bat and fungal traits predicts continental-scale differences in white-nose syndrome.
Transient lattice contraction in the solid-to-plasma transition
Authors: Ferguson Ken R. , Bucher Maximilian , Gorkhover Tais , Boutet Sébastien , Fukuzawa Hironobu , Koglin Jason E. , Kumagai Yoshiaki , Lutman Alberto , Marinelli Agostino , Messerschmidt Marc , Nagaya Kiyonobu , Turner Jim , Ueda Kiyoshi , Williams Garth J. , Bucksbaum Philip H. , Bostedt Christoph
Published: January 2016

Ultrafast x-ray heating of clusters leads to bond contraction in the solid-to-plasma transition.
An epidermis-driven mechanism positions and scales stem cell niches in plants
Authors: Gruel Jérémy , Landrein Benoit , Tarr Paul , Schuster Christoph , Refahi Yassin , Sampathkumar Arun , Hamant Olivier , Meyerowitz Elliot M. , Jönsson Henrik
Published: January 2016

An epidermis control of plant shoot stem cells can explain the scaling and position of the niche expression domains.
Two-photon quantum walk in a multimode fiber
Authors: Defienne Hugo , Barbieri Marco , Walmsley Ian A. , Smith Brian J. , Gigan Sylvain
Published: January 2016

Control of a two-photon quantum walk in a complex multimode system by wavefront shaping.
Quantum Hall effect in a bulk antiferromagnet EuMnBi
2
with magnetically confined two-dimensional Dirac fermions
Authors: Masuda Hidetoshi , Sakai Hideaki , Tokunaga Masashi , Yamasaki Yuichi , Miyake Atsushi , Shiogai Junichi , Nakamura Shintaro , Awaji Satoshi , Tsukazaki Atsushi , Nakao Hironori , Murakami Youichi , Arima Taka-hisa , Tokura Yoshinori , Ishiwata Shintaro
Published: January 2016

Quantum transport of quasi–two-dimensional Dirac fermions is largely controlled by magnetic order in a layered magnet.